Merlin TV Script

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LiveJournal — v.540
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lika_mikala wrote in scriptline
November 30 2010, 22:54
1
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BBC Merlin: 1x01 The Dragon's Call
│ EPISODE 1x02 >>>
[00:00, EXT. MAIN ROAD – DAY]

[Merlin walks through the countryside to Camelot.]
KILGHARRAH
No young man, no matter how great, can know his destiny. He cannot glimpse his part
in the great story that is about to unfold. Like everyone, he must live and learn.
And so it will be for the young warlock arriving at the gates of Camelot. A boy
that will, in time, father the legend. His name: Merlin.
--
[01:25, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – DAY]
[Merlin enters Camelot and Uther addresses a crowd from the balcony in the Square.]
UTHER
Let this serve as a lesson to all. This man, Thomas James Collins, is judged guilty
of conspiring to use enchantments and magic. And, pursuant to the laws of Camelot,
I, Uther Pendragon, have decreed that such practices are banned on penalty of
death. I pride myself as a fair and just king, but for the crime of sorcery there
is but one sentence I can pass.
[Uther gives the signal and the man is beheaded.]
UTHER
When I came to this land, this kingdom was mired in chaos, but with the people's
help magic was driven from the realm. So I declare a festival to celebrate twenty
years since the Great Dragon was captured and Camelot freed from the evil of
sorcery. Let the celebrations begin.
MARY COLLINS
*wailing* There is only one evil in this land, and it is not magic! It is you! With
your hatred and your ignorance! You killed my son! But I promise you, before these
celebrations are over, you will share my tears. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a
tooth, a son for a son.
UTHER
Seize her!
MARY COLLINS
*spell*
[Mary is whisked away in a whirl of wind and smoke.]
--
[04:55, INT. KING’S PALACE – DAY]
[Merlin enter the palace and addresses a guard]
MERLIN
Where would I find Gaius, the- the court physician?
[The guard points. Merlin walks up steps and knocks on the open door to the
physician's quarters and peeks inside.]
MERLIN
Hello?
[Merlin wanders inside.]
MERLIN
Hello? Gaius? *ahem*
[Gaius trips over backwards from the bookshelf stairs and the railing breaks.
Merlin's eyes glow and he slows time enough to magically sweep a mattress under
Gaius before he hits the floor.]
GAIUS
What did you just do?!
MERLIN
Erm...
GAIUS
Tell me!
MERLIN
I—I-- I have no idea what happened.
GAIUS
If anyone had seen that...
MERLIN
Er, no! That--that was-- that was nothing to do with me. That--that was...
GAIUS
I know what it was! I just want to know where you learned how to do it!
MERLIN
Nowhere.
GAIUS
So how is it you know magic?
MERLIN
I don't.
GAIUS
Where did you study? Answer me!
MERLIN
I--I've never studied magic or, or been taught.
GAIUS
Are you lying to me, boy?
MERLIN
What do you want me to say?
GAIUS
The truth!
MERLIN
I was born like this!
GAIUS
That's impossible! Who are you?
MERLIN
Oh, erm...
[Merlin pulls off his backpack.]
MERLIN
I have this letter.
GAIUS
I-- I don't have my glasses.
MERLIN
I'm Merlin.
GAIUS
Hunith's son?
MERLIN
Yes!
GAIUS
But you're not meant to be here till Wednesday!
MERLIN
It is Wednesday.
GAIUS
Ah. Right, then. You better put your bag in there.
MERLIN
You-- you won't say anything about, erm...
GAIUS
No. Although, Merlin, I should say thank you.
--
[07:35, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER – NIGHT]
Merlin looks out his window at the Camelot]
HUNITH (voiceover)
My dear Gaius, I turn to you for I feel lost and alone and don't know who to trust.
It is every mother's fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my
life that Merlin were not so. Ours is a small village and he is so clearly at odds
with people here that, if he were to remain, I fear what would become of him. He
needs a hand to hold, a voice to guide, someone that might help him find a purpose
for his gifts. I beg you, if you understand a mother's love for her son, keep him
safe, and may God save you both.
--
[08:56, INT. KING’S PALACE, GRIFFIN STAIRCASE]
[Morgana looks out the window from the landing.]
UTHER
Morgana.
MORGANA
Yes?
UTHER
What is it? Why are you not joining us at the feast?
MORGANA
I just don't think chopping someone's head off is cause for celebration. That poor
mother.
UTHER
It was simple justice for what he'd done.
MORGANA
To whom? He practiced some magic, he didn't hurt anyone.
UTHER
You were not around twenty years ago, you have no idea what it was like.
MORGANA
How long are you going to keep punishing people for what happened then?
UTHER
Until they realise there is no room for magic in my kingdom! You will be with me
when I greet Lady Helen.
MORGANA
I told you! I want no part in these celebrations!
UTHER
I'm your guardian! I expect you to do as I ask. If you show me no respect at least
respect our finest singer.
MORGANA
You know, the more brutal you are, the more enemies you will create!
--
[09:48, EXT/INT. WOODS, LADY HELEN’S TENT - NIGHT]
[Lady Helen's party camps in the woods]
LADY HELEN
*humming* *gasp* Hello? Gregory?
GREGORY
Lady Helen.
LADY HELEN
Is all well?
GREGORY
Yes, ma'am. With luck, we should reach Camelot late tomorrow.
LADY HELEN
That's good.
GREGORY
I'll be outside if you need me.
[Gregory draws his sword.]
GREGORY
Who's there? Who's there?
MARY COLLINS
Akwele seo magdp. Akwele seo magdp. Akwele seo magdp.
[Mary stabs the effigy, killing Lady Helen.]
MARY COLLINS
Ghefrolinz grimpoxin kouata.
[Mary turns into Lady Helen.]
--
[The Great Dragon calls to Merlin in his sleep.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin. Merlin.
[Merlin wakes in his new bed chamber and enters the Physician's Chambers]
GAIUS
I got you water. You didn't wash last night.
MERLIN
Sorry.
GAIUS
Help yourself to breakfast.
[Merlin sits down to eat watery porridge. Gaius intentionally knocks a bucket of
water off the table. Merlin stands up and stops it. Gaius gasps and they look at
each other. Merlin lets it drop.]
GAIUS
How did you do that? Did you incant a spell in your mind.
MERLIN
I don't know any spells.
GAIUS
So what did you do? There must be something.
MERLIN
It just happens.
[Merlin gets a mop to clear it up.]
GAIUS
Well, we better keep you out of trouble. You can help me until I find some paid
work for you. Here.
[Gaius places a small sac and bottle on the table.]
GAIUS
Hollyhock and Feverfew for Lady Percival, and this is for Sir Olwin. He's as blind
as a weevil, so warn him not to take it all at once.
MERLIN
Okay.
GAIUS
And here.
[Gaius hands him a plate with a sandwich on it. Merlin smiles and takes the
sandwich.]
GAIUS
Off you go. And Merlin! I need hardly tell you that the practice of any form of
enchantments will get you killed.
[Merlin eats his sandwich as he walks down the Physician's Corridor and through the
Square to deliver the medicine. Knocks on a door and squinting old man answers.]
MERLIN
Erm, I brought you your medicine.
[Sir Olwin pops the cork and starts drinking it.]
MERLIN
Oh, and Gaius said don't drink it all at...
[Sir Olwin finishes drinking it.]
MERLIN
I'm sure it's fine.
--
[14:05, EXT. KING’S PALACE, TRAINING GROUNDS – DAY]
[Merlin crosses the drawbridge gate into the training grounds. Arthur's bullies a
serving boy, Morris.]
ARTHUR
Where's the target?
[Arthur's gang laughs the background.]
MORRIS
There, Sir?
ARTHUR
It's into the sun?
MORRIS
But, it's not that bright.
ARTHUR
A bit like you, then?
[Knights’ laughter.]
MORRIS
I'll put the target on the other end, shall I, Sir?
[The serving boy begins carrying the target toward the wall.]
KNIGHT 1
Teach him a lesson. Go on, boy.
ARTHUR
This'll teach him.
KNIGHT 2
Yeah.
KNIGHT 1
Ha-ha. Teach him a lesson.
[Arthur throws a dagger at the target.]
MORRIS
Hey! Hang on!
ARTHUR
Don't stop!
[Morris takes a few steps back.]
MORRIS
Here?
[Gwen shakes a curtain out an upper window.]
ARTHUR
I told you to keep moving!
[Arthur throws another dagger.]
ARTHUR
Come on! Run!
[Morris shuffles his feet along trying to carry the large target as Arthur throws
more daggers.]
ARTHUR
Do you want some moving target practice?
[Morris finally drops the target and it rolls to Merlin's feet. Merlin puts a foot
on it so Morris can't pick it up.]
MERLIN
Hey, come on, that's enough.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
You've had your fun, my friend.
ARTHUR
Do I know you?
MERLIN
Er, I'm Merlin.
[Merlin holds out his hand.]
ARTHUR
So I don't know you.
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
Yet you called me "friend."
MERLIN
That was my mistake.
ARTHUR
Yes, I think so.
MERLIN
Yeah. I'd never have a friend who could be such an ass.
[Merlin starts walking away.]
ARTHUR (scoff)
Or I one who could be so stupid.
[Merlin stops walking.]
ARTHUR
Tell me, Merlin, do you know how to walk on your knees?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
Would you like me to help you?
MERLIN
I wouldn't if I were you.
ARTHUR (chuckle)
Why? What are you going to do to me?
MERLIN
You have no idea.
ARTHUR
Be my guest! Come on! Come on! Come oooooon.
[Merlin takes a swing at him and Arthur twists Merlin's arm behind his back.]
KNIGHTS
Whoa.
[Gwen cringes in surprise.]
ARTHUR
I'll have you thrown in jail for that.
MERLIN
What, who do you think you are? The King?
ARTHUR
No. I'm his son, Arthur.
[Arthur takes Merlin out at the knees.]
--
[15:47, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS – DAY]
[Guards escort Merlin down the Wrought Iron Stairway to the dungeons and throw him
in a cell]
--
[16:08, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – NIGHT]
[Mary Collins, disguised as Lady Helen, rides across the drawbridge and into the
Square with her escort. Mary (Lady Helen)'s reflection in a puddle reveals Mary in
her true appearance.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - NIGHT]
[Mary (Lady Helen) enters and walks down the long hall to meet Uther and a few
court members.]
UTHER
Lady Helen. Thank you so much for coming to sing at our celebrations.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

The pleasure's all mine.
UTHER
How was your journey?
MARY (HELEN)
*sigh* Oh, the time it took, Sire.
[Uther kisses her hands.]
UTHER
Well, it's always worth the wait.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

It will be.
--
[The Great Dragon's voice wakes Merlin in his cell the next morning]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin. Merlin.
[Merlin hears it coming from the floor beneath him, so he gets up and backs away.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin.
[Merlin moves towards the floor and inspects it]
GAIUS
Merlin!
[The cell door opens and Gaius steps in.]
GAIUS (sigh)
You never cease to amaze me! The one thing that someone like you should do is keep
your head down, and what do you do? You behave like an idiot.
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
GAIUS
You're lucky. I managed to pull a few strings to get you released.
MERLIN
Oh, thank you! Thank you!
[Gaius gives him a disapproving look for being so excited.]
MERLIN
I won't forget this.
GAIUS
Well, there is a small price to pay.
--
[18:04, EXT. LOWER TOWN – DAY]
[Merlin is in the stocks being pelted with rotten fruit and vegetables by
children.]
MERLIN
Oh, no.
[Gaius laughs.]
MERLIN
Thanks!
[The children leave and Gwen approaches.]
GWEN
I'm Guinevere, but most people call me Gwen. I'm the Lady Morgana's maid.
MERLIN
Right. I'm Merlin.
[Merlin reaches his hand further out of the stocks to shake Gwen’s.]
MERLIN
Although, most people just call me Idiot.
GWEN
No, no, no. I saw what you did. It was so brave.
MERLIN
It was stupid.
GWEN
Well, I'm glad you walked away. You weren't going to beat him.
MERLIN (snort)
Oh, I...I can beat him.
GWEN
You think? Because you don't look like one of these big, muscle-y kind of fellows.
MERLIN
Thanks.
GWEN
No! No, I'm sure you're stronger than you look. It's just, erm...Arthur's one of
these real rough, tough, save the world kind of men, and...well...
MERLIN
What?
GWEN
You don't look like that.
[He motions for her to move closer.]
MERLIN
I'm in disguise.
[Gwen is confused for a moment, then laughs.]
GWEN
Well, it's great you stood up to him.
MERLIN
What? You think so?
GWEN
Arthur's a bully, and everyone thought you were a real hero.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah?
GWEN (nods)
Mm-hmm.
[Children approach with more rotten fruit.]
MERLIN
Oh, excuse me, Guinevere. My fans are waiting.
[Gwen leaves as they start pelting him.]
--
[19:38, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin sits down to eat]
GAIUS
Do you want some vegetables with that?
MERLIN (scoff)
I know you're still angry with me.
GAIUS
Your mother asked me to look after you
MERLIN
Yes.
GAIUS
What did your mother say to you about your gifts?
MERLIN
That I was special.
GAIUS
You are special. The likes of which I have never seen before.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
GAIUS
Well, magic requires incantations, spells. It takes years to study. What I saw you
do was...elemental, instinctive.
MERLIN
What's the point if it can't be used?
GAIUS
That I do not know. You are a question that has never been posed before, Merlin.
MERLIN
Did you ever study magic?
GAIUS
Uther banned all such work twenty years ago.
MERLIN
Why?
GAIUS
People used magic for the wrong end at that time. It threw the natural order into
chaos. Uther made it his mission to destroy everything from back then, even the
dragons.
MERLIN
What? All of them?
GAIUS
There was one dragon he chose not to kill, kept it as an example. He imprisoned it
in a cave deep beneath the castle where no one can free it. Now, eat up. When
you've finished, I need you to take a preparation to Lady Helen. She needs it for
her voice.
--
[21:01, INT. KING’S PALACE, GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin walks up Spiral Stairway across the Balcony Corridor and enters Lady
Helen's guest chamber. He puts the potion bottle on the vanity table and notices an
effigy and a special book. Lady Helen walks across the Balcony Corridor. Merlin
hears her coming and puts the book down, trying to cover up the evidence that he
was snooping.]
MARY (LADY HELEN)

What are you doing in here?
MERLIN
An...I, I was asked to deliver this.
[Merlin picks up the potion bottle from the table, Mary's reflection is revealed in
the half-covered mirror behind him. Merlin hands her the bottle. Merlin exits]
--
[Merlin walks across the Square and passes Arthur and his gang as he walks through
the Lower Town]
ARTHUR
How's your knee-walking coming along?
[Merlin keeps walking.]
ARTHUR
Aw, don't run away!
[Merlin stops.]
MERLIN
From you?
ARTHUR (sigh)
Thank God. I thought you were deaf as well as dumb.
MERLIN
Look, I've told you you're an ass.
[Merlin turns to face Arthur.]
MERLIN
I just didn't realise you were a royal one. Oh, what are you going to do? Get your
daddy's men to protect you?
ARTHUR (laughs)
I could take you apart with one blow.
MERLIN
I could take you apart with less than that.
ARTHUR
Are you sure?
KNIGHT 1
Come on, then.
KNIGHT 2
Fight.
[Merlin takes off his jacket and Arthur laughs.]
KNIGHT
[ ...] toying with him, then!
ARTHUR
Here you go.
[One of Arthur's knights hands him a mace, which he tosses at Merlin. Merlin
doesn't catch it. He picks it up and Arthur starts swinging his mace with ease.]
KNIGHT
That a way.
ARTHUR
Come on, then. I warn you, I've been trained to kill since birth.
MERLIN
Wow, and how long have you been training to be a prat?
ARTHUR (snort)
You can't address me like that.
MERLIN
I'm sorry. H-How long have you been training to be a prat, My Lord?
[Merlin gives a little bow. Arthur smiles a perturbed grin and starts swinging at
Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Come on then, Merlin! Come on!
[Arthur backs Merlin into the market stalls and a crowd continues to gather. Gaius
hears the commotion and looks out the Physician's Chambers' window to see Merlin in
trouble again. Merlin falls down.]
ARTHUR
Ha-ha. You're in trouble now.
MERLIN
Oh God.
[Merlin looks for something to help him. He sees a couple of large hooks and
magically entangles them with Arthur's mace. Arthur untangles it and attacks again.
Merlin moves a box and Arthur steps into it, barking his shin.]
ARTHUR
OW! Argh!
[Arthur pursues him again. Merlin tightens a rope on the ground, tripping Arthur.
Merlin picks up the mace and starts swinging it at Arthur.]
MERLIN
Do you want to give up?
ARTHUR
To you?
MERLIN
Do you? Do you want to give up?
[Arthur backs up, catching his foot in a bucket and falling over backwards. Merlin,
thrilled by his victory, spots Gaius in the crowd and pauses. Arthur attacks him
from behind with a broom, knocking him to the ground. Guards begin to pick up
Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Wait. Let him go. He may be an idiot, but he's a brave one. There's something about
you, Merlin. I can't quite put my finger on it.
--
[25:10, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
GAIUS
How could you be so foolish?!
MERLIN
He needed to be taught a lesson.
GAIUS
Magic must be studied, mastered, and used for good! Not for idiotic pranks!
MERLIN
What is there to master? I could move objects like that before I could talk!
GAIUS
Then, by now, you should know how to control yourself!
MERLIN
I don't want to! If I can't use magic, what have I got?! I'm just a nobody, and I
always will be. If I can't use magic, I might as well die.
[Merlin goes to his bed chamber. Gaius enters Merlin's chamber with a medical
basket.]
GAIUS (sigh)
Merlin? Sit up. Take your shirt off.
[Merlin removes his shirt, revealing bruises.]
MERLIN
You don't know why I was born like this, do you?
GAIUS
No.
[Gaius tends to Merlin's wounds.]
MERLIN
I'm not a monster, am I?
[Gaius looks Merlin in the eye.]
GAIUS
Don't ever think that.
MERLIN
Then why am I like this? Please, I need to know why.
GAIUS
Maybe there's someone with more knowledge than me.
MERLIN
If you can't tell me, no one can.
[Gaius pours potion into a tiny cup.]
GAIUS
Take this. It will help with the pain.
--
[27:08, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM – NIGHT]
Uther dines with Mary (Lady Helen).]
UTHER
Will you sing for me tonight?
MARY (LADY HELEN)

You will have to wait, Sire.
UTHER
You will not deny me.
MARY (LADY HELEN)
I am saving myself for my performance tomorrow. Will everyone be there?
UTHER
Who would dare to miss it?
MARY (LADY HELEN)

How about your son?
UTHER
Well...
MARY (LADY HELEN)

It seems a shame not to have met him.
UTHER
That's Arthur.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

Poor child.
UTHER
Hmm?
MARY (LADY HELEN)

Poor child. It can't have been easy to, to grow up without a mother.
UTHER
No.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

Hmm. That bond between mother and son, it's so hard to replace.
UTHER
Hasn't been easy.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

I'm sure.
[She smiles at him and Uther smiles back.]
MARY (LADY HELEN)

Perhaps if you found someone...If you remarried. (she laughs) I'm sure you'd have
the pick of any maiden in the kingdom.
UTHER
Well, perhaps I'll find love again. But I'm afraid it's too late to replace
Arthur's mother.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

Yes. It's certainly too late for Arthur.
--
[Merlin lies awake in his bed.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin. Merlin.
[Merlin gets out of bed and sneaks out of the Physician's Chambers. Merlin crosses
the Square.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin.
[Merlin descends the Wrought Iron Stairway and distracts a pair of guards by
rolling their dice away from them. He grabs a torch, lights it, and heads down the
Tunnel Stairway.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin. Merlin.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON’S CAVE - NIGHT]
[Merlin enters the cave.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin. (laughs)
[Merlin looks around for the owner of the voice.]
MERLIN
Where are you?
[The Great Dragon flies to land in front of Merlin.]
KILGHARRAH
I'm here. How small you are for such a great destiny.
MERLIN
Why? What do you mean? What destiny?
KILGHARRAH
Your gift, Merlin, was given to you for a reason.
MERLIN
So there is a reason.
KILGHARRAH
Arthur is the Once and Future King who will unite the land of Albion.
MERLIN
Right.
KILGHARRAH
But he faces many threats from friend and foe alike.
MERLIN
I don't see what this has to do with me.
KILGHARRAH
Everything. Without you, Arthur will never succeed. Without you, there will be no
Albion.
MERLIN
No. No, you've got this wrong.
KILGHARRAH
There is no right or wrong, only what is and what isn't.
MERLIN
But I'm serious! If anyone wants to go and kill him, they can go ahead. In fact,
I'll give them a hand.
KILGHARRAH (laughs)
None of us can choose our destiny, Merlin, and none of us can escape it.
MERLIN
No. No way. No. No. There must be another Arthur because this one's an idiot.
KILGHARRAH
Perhaps it's your destiny to change that.
[The dragon flies off.]
MERLIN
Wait! Wait! Wait, stop! No, I, I need to know more!
--
[32:11, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER – DAY]
[Gaius enters Merlin's messy chamber and picks up his clothes.]
GAIUS
Hoy!
[Merlin wakes.]
GAIUS
Have you seen the state of this room?!
MERLIN
It just happens.
GAIUS
By magic?
MERLIN
Yeah.
GAIUS
Yes. Well, you can clear it up without magic. And then I want you to get me some
herbs: henbane, wormwood, and sorrel. And deliver this to Morgana. Poor girl's
suffering from nightmares.
[Gaius tosses some more clothes at Merlin.]
MERLIN
Mmm, I know the feeling.
--
[32:46, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin walks through the Griffin Landing and up some curved steps to Morgana's
Chambers. Merlin enters the open door and stares at Morgana as she walks behind her
changing screen]
MORGANA
You know, I've been thinking about Arthur. I wouldn't touch him with a lance pole.
Pass me that dress, will you Gwen?
[Merlin pauses uncertainly before fetching the dress. Morgana begins undressing.]
MORGANA
I mean, the man's a total jouster. And just because I'm the King's ward, that
doesn't mean I have to accompany him to the feast, does it?
[Merlin places the gown on the screen.]
MORGANA
Well, does it?
MERLIN (high pitched) (shakes head)

Mm-Mmm.
MORGANA
If he wants me to go, then he should invite me, and he hasn't.
[Merlin tries to figure a way out of his situation.]
MORGANA
So do you know what that means?
MERLIN (high pitched) (shakes head)

Mm-Mmm.
MORGANA
Where are you?
[Morgana looks over the screen and Merlin holds up one of her cloaks to hide his
face.]
MERLIN (high pitched)

Here.
[Merlin peeks through the neck of the cloak.]
MORGANA
It means I'm going by myself.
[Merlin puts the cloak down and starts to leave.]
MERLIN
I need some help with this fastening.
[Merlin turns around and stops, at a loss for what to do. Gwen enters behind him.]
MORGANA
Gwen?
GWEN
I'm here.
[Merlin spins around.]
GWEN (mouths)
What are you doing here?
[Merlin sighs in relief and motions that Morgana needs help dressing.]
GWEN (mouths)
Oh.
[Gwen nods. Merlin mouths something to Gwen before he leaves and she helps Morgana.
Morgana comes out behind the screen in a new dress, carrying another gown.]
MORGANA
So, it's whether I wear this little tease...
[Morgana looks at her dress in the mirror and then holds up a maroon gown.]
MORGANA
...or give them a night they'll really remember.
--
[The serving girl, Bronwen, brings a bowl of fruit to Lady Helen's guest chambers
and knocks. Mary (Helen) opens the door.]
BRONWEN
Lady Helen. *curtsies* Compliments of the King.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

Come in.
[Mary (Helen) sits at her vanity table and picks up an apple.]
MARY (LADY HELEN)

So sweet. How will I ever repay him?
BRONWEN
When he hears you sing. Well, that will be more than enough won't it? I'm really
looking forward to the performance.
MARY (LADY HELEN)

So am I.
BRONWEN
I love singing, you know. I sing all the time. My betrothed says I have the voice
of a fallen angel.
[Bronwen removes the cloth over the mirror and sees Mary Collins's reflection. the
girl tries to leave, but Mary grabs her arm and drains the life from her.]
--
[35:23, INT. KING’S PALACE, BANQUET HALL – NIGHT]
[Court members gather. Gaius and Merlin enter. Merlin sees Arthur joking with his
mates.]
ARTHUR
...Merlin....
[The knights laugh.]
ARTHUR
...so I stood up and...
[Arthur feints a punch into one of his mate's stomach. They laugh. Arthur turns and
does a double take as Morgana walks into his line of sight. All the men stare.]
ARTHUR
God have mercy.
[Merlin stares at Morgana as she passes him.]
GAIUS
Merlin. Remember, you're here to work.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah.
[Merlin continues to stare at Morgana as Arthur approaches to talk to her. Gwen

sidles up next to Merlin.]
ARTHUR (lip reading)

Morgana, you look well...
GWEN
She looks great, doesn't she?
MERLIN
Yeah.
GWEN
Some people are just born to be queen.
MERLIN
No!
GWEN
I hope so. One day. Not that I'd want to be her. Who'd want to marry Arthur?
MERLIN (chuckle)
Oh, come on, Gwen. I thought you liked those real rough, tough, save the world kind
of men.
GWEN
No, I like much more ordinary men like you.
MERLIN
Gwen, believe me, I'm not ordinary.
GWEN
No, I didn't mean you, obviously. Not you. But just, you know, I like much more
ordinary men like you.
MERLIN
Thanks.
[They turn away from each other awkwardly.]
--
[Mary (Helen) hums at her vanity table before leaving the room, walking past
Bronwen's corpse.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, BANQUET HALL – NIGHT]
[Celebratory horns signal King Uther's entrance and everyone finds their place at
the tables.]
UTHER
We have enjoyed twenty years of peace and prosperity. It has brought the kingdom
and myself many pleasures, but few can compare with the honour of introducing Lady
Helen of [place name: Mora].
[Applause. music begins and the Uther and the court take their seats. Mary (Helen)
sings. The court members begin nodding off to sleep. Merlin notices and presses his
hands over his ears. Cobwebs begin forming over the enchanted sleepers. Merlin
notices her staring at Arthur as she walks forward. She pulls a dagger from her
sleeve. Merlin magically drops the chandelier on her as she raises her arm to throw
the dagger. Court members wake and pull the cobwebs off, muttering. Uther and
Arthur stand up to see Mary Collins lying on the floor. Mary raises herself up
enough to throw the dagger at Arthur. Merlin slows down time to reach Arthur and
pull him out of harm's way. The dagger slices into Arthur's chair as they fall to
the floor. Mary dies. Uther and Arthur stare at Merlin.]
UTHER
You saved my boy's life. A debt must be repaid.
MERLIN
Oh, well...
UTHER
Don't be so modest. You shall be rewarded.
MERLIN
No, honestly, you don't have to, Your Highness.
UTHER
No, absolutely. This merits something quite special.
MERLIN
Well...
UTHER
You shall be rewarded a position in the royal household. You shall be Prince
Arthur's manservant.
[The court applauds.]
ARTHUR
Father!
[Gwen claps with a pitying smile on her face. Arthur and Merlin look away from each
other unhappily.]
--
[41:13, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER]
[Gaius knocks on Merlin's chamber door and enters]
GAIUS
Seems you're a hero
MERLIN
Hard to believe, isn't it?
GAIUS
No. I knew it from the moment I met you. When you saved my life, remember?
MERLIN
But...that was magic.
GAIUS (nods)
And now, it seems, we finally found a use for it.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
GAIUS
I saw how you saved Arthur's life.
MERLIN
Oh, no.
GAIUS
Perhaps that's its purpose.
MERLIN (sigh)
My destiny.
GAIUS
Indeed. This book was given to me when I was your age, but I have a feeling it will
be of more use to you than it was to me.
[Gaius hands Merlin a book wrapped in a cloth. Merlin unlatches it and looks
inside.]
MERLIN
But this is a book of magic.
GAIUS
Which is why you must keep it hidden.
MERLIN
I will study every word.
[Knocking on door of the Physician's Chambers.]
GUARD
Merlin, Prince Arthur wants you right away.
GAIUS
Your destiny's calling. You'd better find out what he wants.
-----------------------------------------------
Note: incantations found at Merlin Wiki
│ next episode >>>
>>> SCRIPT LINE INDEX <<<

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Script Line Index
Merlin: Episode 5x08 The Hollow Queen
Castle: Episode 5x06 The Final Frontier
Downton Abbey: Episode 3x04
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November 30 2010, 22:55
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BBC Merlin: 1x02 Valiant
<<< EPISODE 1x01 │ EPISODE 1x03 >>>

KILGHARRAH
In a land of myth and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the
shoulders of a young boy. His name: Merlin.
--
[00:11, INT. WESTERN ISLES, SHOP - DAY]
[Knight Valiant enters a shady shop.]
VALIANT
I understand you have a shield for me.
[The merchant, Devlin, motions for him to come behind the counter.]
DEVLIN
With your swordcraft and this shield, I guarantee you will win.
VALIANT
Show me how it works.
DEVLIN
Certainly. Tharanai im bis entra ofra honra stolle.
[Snakes slither out of the shield.]
DEVLIN
When you're competing in the tournament, you pin your opponent under the shield, a
snake strikes. Your opponent will be paralysed.
[Devlin hands him the shield.]
DEVLIN
The snakes are now under your command. They will do anything that you tell them to
do.
VALIANT
Anything?
DEVLIN
Just say the word.
[They both laugh darkly.]
VALIANT
Kill him.
[A snake strikes Devlin. Valiant rides for Camelot and places his helmet and seal
on the registration table.]
VALIANT
Knight Valiant of the Western Isles. I'm here for the tournament.
STEWARD
Welcome to Camelot.
--
[02:26, EXT. OUTSIDE CASTLE RAMPARTS – DAY]
[Arthur training in his standard armour sans helmet. Merlin wearing armour with a
helmet and shield.]
ARTHUR
Ready?
MERLIN
Would it make any difference if I said no?
ARTHUR
Not really.
[Merlin draws his sword. Arthur attacks.]
ARTHUR
Body. Shield. Body. Shield.
MERLIN
Shield.
ARTHUR
Head.
MERLIN
Head? Ow.
ARTHUR
Come on, Merlin. You're not even trying.
[Arthur tags Merlin in the back.]
MERLIN
I know. Ah.
ARTHUR
Once more.
MERLIN
Oh, no.
ARTHUR
To the left. To the right. And left. Head.
MERLIN
Ow!
ARTHUR
Come on, Merlin! I've got a tournament to win.
MERLIN
Can we stop now, please? Ow! Shield. Body.
ARTHUR
Shield.
MERLIN
Shield. Ah.
[Arthur hits him in the head.]
MERLIN
Ow.
[Merlin topples over backwards and his helmet rolls off.]
ARTHUR
You're braver than you look. Most servants collapse after the first blow.
MERLIN
Is it over?
ARTHUR
That was just the warm up. How's your mace work coming along?
[Merlin sighs.]
--
[Merlin walks in, losing his armour as he goes.]
GAIUS (chuckle)
So, how was your first day as Arthur's servant?
[Merlin taps his head.]
MERLIN
Do you hear clanging?
[Merlin sits at the table wearing his tunic. Gaius massages Merlin's shoulders.]
MERLIN
Ah! It was horrible. Ahh, and I've still got to learn all about tournament
etiquette by the morning. onhríne achtung bregdan.
[A book slides to Merlin on the table and opens up.]
GAIUS
Oi!
[Gaius slaps the back of Merlin's head.]
GAIUS
What've I told you about using magic like this?
MERLIN
If I could actually feel my arms, I'd pick up the book myself.
GAIUS
Never mind your arms. What do I do if you get caught?
MERLIN
What would you do?
GAIUS
Well you just make sure it doesn't happen, for both our sakes.
[Gaius goes back to treating Merlin's shoulders.]
MERLIN
Ah! I save Arthur from being killed and I end up as a servant. How is that fair?
GAIUS
I'm not sure fairness comes into it. You never know, it might be fun.
MERLIN (scoff)
You think mucking out Arthur's horses is going to be fun? You should hear my list
of duties.
GAIUS
We all have our duties. Even Arthur.
MERLIN
It must be so tough for him with all the girls and the glory.
GAIUS
He is a future king. People expect so much of him. He's under a lot of pressure.
MERLIN
Ah! That makes two of us.
--
[04:34, EXT/INT. LOWER TOWN, GWEN’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Merlin brings Arthur's armour to Gwen's house. Merlin's dressed in the armour]
GWEN
So, you've got voiders on the arms.
MERLIN
Mm-mmm.
GWEN
The hauberk goes over your chest.
MERLIN
The chest. The arms. The chest.
GWEN
I guess you know what to do with the helmet.
MERLIN
Erm, yeah. Yeah, that was the only bit I'd figured out.
[Gwen giggles. Merlin puts the helmet on.]
MERLIN
How come you're so much better at this than me?
GWEN
I'm the blacksmith's daughter. I know pretty much everything there is to know about
armour, which is actually kind of sad.
MERLIN
No, it's brilliant!
--
[05:12, EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS]
[Merlin struggles to get the vambrace on Arthur's lower arm.]
ARTHUR
You do know the tournament starts today?
MERLIN
Yes, Sire.
[Merlin fixes the buckle on the gorget.]
MERLIN
You nervous?
ARTHUR
I don't get nervous.
MERLIN
Really? I thought everyone got nervous.
ARTHUR
Will you shut up!
[Merlin grabs Arthur's cape, ties it on him, and hands Arthur his helmet]
MERLIN
Great, yeah. I think you're all set.
ARTHUR
Aren't you forgetting something? My sword.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah. Yeah, sorry. Guess, uh, you'll be needing that.
[Arthur grabs the sword and marches off]
MERLIN
That went well.
--
[06:08, EXT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS – DAY]
[Gwen and Morgana sit excitedly in the stands of the tournament grounds as the
competitors enter the arena. Merlin peeks around the entrance as Uther struts past
the front line of knights.]
UTHER
Knights of the realm, it's a great honour to welcome you to a tournament at
Camelot. Over the next three days, you will come to put your bravery to the test,
your skills as warriors, and of course, to challenge the reigning champion, my son,
Prince Arthur. Only one can have the honour of being crowned champion, and he will
receive a prize of 1,000 gold pieces.
[A box is opened revealing the gold.]
UTHER
It is in combat that we learn a knight's true nature, whether he is indeed a
warrior or a coward. The tournament begins!
[The crowd cheers. the knights exit the arena. Uther stops by Arthur on his way to
the stands.]
UTHER
I trust you will make me proud.
[Uther slaps his back. Guards take Arthur and the other knight's capes, and they
put on helmets. crowd cheers. Gwen whoops. Arthur and the knight fight.]
MERLIN
Yeah! Come on!
[Arthur wins. The crowd cheers.]
MERLIN
Yeah!
[Valiant wins his bout. other knights compete. Arthur and Merlin watch Valiant
fighting.]
MERLIN
Knight Valiant looks pretty handy with a sword.
[Valiant exits the arena and stops near Arthur.]
VALIANT
May I offer my congratulations on your victories today?
ARTHUR
Likewise.
VALIANT
I hope to see you at the reception this evening.
[Valiant leaves with his servant.]
MERLIN
Creep.
ARTHUR
*snort*
MERLIN
*snort*
ARTHUR
Uh, for tomorrow you need to repair my shield, wash my tunic, clean my boots,
sharpen my sword, and polish my chainmail.
--
[10:11, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[All of Arthur’s checklist is magically being done while Merlin reads the magic
book. Gaius enters and all of the objects drop.]
GAIUS
Are you using magic again?
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
What's all this, then?
[Merlin shrugs.]
GAIUS
I just came to tell you that supper's ready.
--
[10:39, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM – DAY]
[The tournament knights queue up to meet Uther and Lady Morgana.]
VALIANT
Knight Valiant of the Western Isles, My Lord.
UTHER
I saw you fighting today. You have a very aggressive style.
VALIANT
Well, as My Lord said, "To lose is to be disgraced."
UTHER
I couldn't agree more. Knight Valiant, may I present the Lady Morgana, my ward.
[Valiant bows to kiss Morgana's hand while Arthur looks on with a wry grin.]
VALIANT
My Lady.
MORGANA
I saw you competing today.
VALIANT
I saw you watching. I understand the tournament champion has the honour of
escorting My Lady to the feast.
MORGANA
That's correct.
VALIANT
Then I will give everything to win the tournament.
[Morgana smiles and nods to him, Valiant nods back.]
VALIANT
My Lady.
[Valiant walks over to shake hands with other knights, Morgana and Gwen watch him.
Arthur bows to his father]
UTHER
Arthur.
ARTHUR
Father.
[Arthur looks over at Valiant before walking to Morgana.]
MORGANA
They all seem rather impressed by Knight Valiant.
ARTHUR
They're not the only ones.
MORGANA
You're not jealous, are you?
ARTHUR
I don't see there's anything to be jealous of.
[Morgana's smile fades. Arthur walks on.]
MORGANA
Could Arthur be any more annoying? I so hope Knight Valiant wins the tournament.
GWEN
You don't really mean that.
MORGANA
Yes, I do.
--
[11:58, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARMOURY - NIGHT]
[Merlin hears a hissing sound.]
MERLIN
Hello? Is there someone there?
[Merlin finds Valiant's shield and sees one of the snake eyes blink. he moves to
touch it when someone puts a sword to his chest. Merlin gets up.]
VALIANT
Can I help you with something, boy?
MERLIN
Nope. I'm good. I, I was just...I was, erm, gathering my master's armour.
VALIANT
Then you'd best be on your way.
MERLIN
Right, yeah. No problem.
[Merlin picks up the armour and stumbles on his way out.]
--
[13:00, Arthur's Chambers. Arthur's armour is laid out on the table. Arthur enters,
dressed in his gambeson.]
ARTHUR
You did all this on your own?
MERLIN
Yes, Sire.
ARTHUR
Now let's see if you can get me into it without forgetting anything.
[Merlin puts on Arthur's hauberk and surcoat, followed by the gorget, vambraces,
pauldron, and couter. Next, his mail coif, belt, sword belt, dagger, and sword.
Merlin hands Arthur his helmet.]
ARTHUR
That was much better. Not that it could have got any worse.
MERLIN
I'm a fast learner.
ARTHUR
I hope, for you sake, that's true.
MERLIN
Good luck.
--
[Arthur marches into the arena and acknowledges the crowd. Merlin watches from the
entrance.]
GAIUS
Is it my imagination, or are you beginning to enjoy yourself?
MERLIN
It...
[Merlin sighs.]
MERLIN
It isn't totally horrible all the time.
[Arthur fights his opponent.]
MERLIN
Yes!
[Merlin claps enthusiastically. Valiant fights in the arena. He knocks down Sir
Ewan, whose helm rolls off. Valiant pins him down with his shield.]
VALIANT
Strike him.
[Serpents come out of Valiant shield.]
VALIANT
Strike him!
[Serpent bites Sir Ewan. Valiant hits him and stands up. Crowd cheers. Arthur and
Merlin see Sir Ewan just lying there.]
MERLIN
I think he's badly hurt.
[Gaius enters the arena with his medical bag.]
--
[15:38, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin enters and puts down Arthur's armour.]
MERLIN
How is he?
GAIUS
It's most odd. Look at this. See these two small wounds. Looks like a snake bite.
MERLIN
How could he've been bitten by a snake? He was injured in the sword fight.
GAIUS
But the symptoms are consistent with poisoning: slow pulse, fever, paralysis.
MERLIN
Can you heal him?
GAIUS
Well, if it is a snake bite, I'll have to extract venom from the snake that bit him
to make an antidote.
MERLIN
What happens if he doesn't get the antidote?
GAIUS
Then I'm afraid there's nothing more I can do for him. He's going to die.
MERLIN
He was fighting Knight Valiant.
GAIUS
What's that?
MERLIN
Nothing.
[Merlin exits.]
--
[Valiant walks through the Red Ribbon Chamber and Merlin spies him from around the
corner and follows to spy on Valiant in his guest quarters. Valiant pulls a mouse
out of a cage]
VALIANT
Dinner time. Come on.
[Valiant feeds it to the snakes in the shield. Merlin scurries away, but Valiant
hears him and follows. Merlin hides in an alcove of the Criss-cross Corridor and
Valiant gives up the chase.]
--
MERLIN
I've just seen one of the snakes in Valiant's shield come alive. He's using magic.
GAIUS
Are you sure?
MERLIN
The snake ate a mouse - one swallow, straight down. Sir Ewan was fighting Valiant
when he collapsed. It must've been one of the snakes from the shield. I have to
tell Arthur.
GAIUS
Is there any chance you might be mistaken?
MERLIN
I know magic when I see it.
GAIUS
Perhaps, but have you any proof?
MERLIN
Don't you believe me?
GAIUS
I fear you'll land yourself in trouble. How will you explain why you were in
Valiant's chambers?
MERLIN
What does that matter? He's using magic to cheat in the tournament!
GAIUS
But you can't go accusing a knight of using magic without proof. The King would
never accept the word of servant over the word of a knight.
MERLIN
What? So what I say doesn't count for anything?
GAIUS
I'm afraid it counts for very little as far as the King is concerned. That's the
way it is.
--
[18:46, EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS/TOURNAMENT GROUNDS – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur watch as a serving boy uses a step ladder to put on the helm of
Arthur's next opponent.]
MERLIN
You're telling me you've got to fight that?
ARTHUR
Yes, and he's strong as a bear. But he's slow.
MERLIN
Ah, and you're fast.
ARTHUR
Exactly.
[Merlin finishes helping Arthur with his armour. Morgana absently strokes Gwen's
cloak in the stands.]
GWEN
You're not worried, are you?
MORGANA
No.
[Merlin sees Valiant put down his shield. Gaius approaches Merlin.]
GAIUS
How're you getting on?
MERLIN
Fine. Just doing my job. Minding my own business.
[Arthur fights the bear knight and wins. Valiant wins his next match. Merlin and
Gaius look at the final brackets.]
MERLIN
Valiant's going to fight Arthur in the final. He'll use the shield to kill him.
--
[20:58, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin sits with Sir Ewan by the sickbed. Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Merlin, about what I said yesterday...Look, Uther wouldn't really listen to you or
me, but you are right. We can't let Valiant get away with this.
MERLIN
But we don't have any proof.
GAIUS
Well, if we could cure Ewan, he could tell the King that Valiant was using magic.
The King would believe another knight. But how we get the antidote...Well, that's
another matter.
[Merlin gets up and leaves]
GAIUS
Merlin?
--
[21:48, the knights toast in the Council Chamber of Doom]
KNIGHTS
Long live Valiant!
UTHER
So, Valiant, do you think you stand a chance of defeating my son?
VALIANT
He is a great warrior, My Lord. I do hope to be a worthy opponent.
[Merlin peeks into the Council Chamber]
UTHER
You should stay in Camelot after the tournament. I could do with more knights like
you.
VALIANT
I'd be honoured, My Lord.
[Merlin heads to Valiant's guest chambers]
MERLIN
*spell*
[The door unlocks. Merlin enters and takes a sword from a rack, approaching the
shield. Merlin turns to the door when he hears someone approaching. a snake
slithers out of the shield and poises to strike. Merlin sees the shadow of the
snake and turns around to cut off its head. the other snakes come out, but Merlin
drops the sword, grabs the first snake head and runs out of the room]
--
[23:33, Gaius drains some venom from the snake head]
GAIUS
I'll get started preparing the antidote.
MERLIN
I'm going to tell Arthur.
GAIUS
You'll need this.
[Gaius hands Merlin the snake head]
GAIUS
And Merlin, what you did was very brave.
--
[23:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Arthur dining in his chambers.]
ARTHUR
You? You chopped its head off?
MERLIN
Ewan was bitten by a snake from the shield when he was fighting Valiant. You can
talk to Gaius, you can see the puncture wounds in Ewan's neck where the snake bit
him. Ewan was beating him, he had to cheat.
ARTHUR
Valiant wouldn't dare use magic in Camelot.
MERLIN
Ewan was pinned under Valiant's shield. No one could see the snake bite him.
ARTHUR
I don't like the guy, but that doesn't mean he's cheating.
MERLIN
Gaius is preparing an antidote to the snake venom. When Ewan's conscious, he'll
tell you what happened. If you fight Valiant in the final, he'll use the shield.
It's the only way he can beat you. Look at it!
[Merlin picks up the snake head.]
MERLIN
Have you ever seen any snakes like this in Camelot?
[Arthur takes the snake head and looks it over.]
MERLIN
I know I'm just a servant and my word doesn't count for anything. I wouldn't lie to
you.
ARTHUR
I want you to swear to me what you're telling me is true.
MERLIN
I swear it's true.
ARTHUR
Then I believe you.
--
[Valiant is escorted through the Square to the Council Chamber of Doom. Gaius
treats Sir Ewan in the Physician’s Chambers. Ewan wakes.]
GAIUS
Welcome back.
EWAN
There was a snake on his shield. It came alive.
GAIUS
You're weak. The snake's venom is still in your system.
EWAN
I must warn Arthur.
GAIUS
Arthur already knows. He's requested an audience with the King. Now, they'll want
to talk to you. Rest. You'll need your strength. I need to fetch more herbs. I'll
be right back.
[Valiant’s snake slithers to Ewan's bed and strikes him.]
--
[Uther enters.]
UTHER
Why have you summoned the court?
ARTHUR
I believe Knight Valiant is using a magic shield to cheat in the tournament.
UTHER
Valiant, what do you have to say to this?
VALIANT
My Lord, this is ridiculous. I've never used magic. Does your son have any evidence
to support this outrageous accusation?
UTHER
Do you have evidence?
ARTHUR
I do.
[Arthur motions for Merlin to come forward, who hands Uther the snake head.]
--
[Gaius mixes a potion.]
GAIUS
I'm afraid this potion tastes like toad water, but it'll get you back on your feet.
Ewan?
[Gaius checks for Ewan's pulse]
--
UTHER
Let me see this shield.
MERLIN (whisper to Arthur)

Don't let him get too close.
ARTHUR
Be careful, My Lord.
[Arthur draws his sword. Uther inspects the field. Gaius enters the room.]
GAIUS (whisper)
Merlin.
ARTHUR (whisper to Merlin)

We need Ewan. Find out what's happening.
[Merlin nods.]
VALIANT
As you can see, My Lord, it's just an ordinary shield.
ARTHUR
He's not going to let everyone see the snakes come alive.
UTHER
Then how am I to know that what you say is true?
ARTHUR
I have a witness. Knight Ewan was bitten by one of the snakes from the shield. Its
venom made him grievously ill, however, he has received an antidote. He will
confirm that Knight Valiant is using magic.
UTHER
Where is this witness?
ARTHUR
He should be here...
[Arthur turns to Gaius and Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Where's Ewan?
MERLIN
He's dead.
UTHER
I'm waiting!
ARTHUR
I'm afraid the witness is dead.
UTHER
So you have no proof to support these allegations. Have you seen Valiant using
magic?
ARTHUR
No. But my servant fought one of the snakes from...
UTHER
Your servant? You made these outrageous accusations against a knight the word of
your servant?
ARTHUR
I believe he's telling the truth!
VALIANT
My Lord, am I really to be judged on some hearsay from a boy?
MERLIN
I've seen those snakes come alive!
UTHER
How dare you interrupt?! Guards!
[Guards begin taking Merlin away.]
VALIANT
My Lord.
UTHER
Wait!
VALIANT
I'm sure he was merely mistaken. I wouldn't want him punished on my account.
UTHER
You see? This is how a true knight behaves - with gallantry and honour.
VALIANT
My Lord, if your son made these accusations because he's afraid to fight me, then I
will graciously accept his withdrawal.
UTHER
Is this true? Do you wish to withdraw from the tournament?
ARTHUR
No!
UTHER
Then what am I to make of these allegations?
ARTHUR
Obviously there has been a misunderstanding. I withdraw the allegation against
Knight Valiant. Please accept my apology.
VALIANT
Accepted.
--
[29:51, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Arthur mopes.]
ARTHUR
I believed you, I trusted you, and you made me look a complete fool.
MERLIN
I know it didn't go exactly to plan.
ARTHUR
"Didn't go to plan"?! My father and the entire royal court think I'm a coward! YOU
HUMILIATED ME!
MERLIN
We can still expose Valiant.
ARTHUR
I no longer require your services.
MERLIN
You're sacking me?
ARTHUR
I need a servant I can trust.
MERLIN
You can trust me!
ARTHUR
And look where it got me this time. Get out of my sight!
--
[30:57, INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON'S CAVE – NIGHT]
MERLIN
Where are you? I just came to tell you: whatever you think my destiny, whatever it
is you think I'm supposed to do, you've got the wrong person! That's it. Goodbye.
KILGHARRAH
If only it were so easy to escape one's destiny.
MERLIN
How can it be my destiny to protect someone who hates me?
KILGHARRAH
A half cannot truly hate that which makes it whole. Very soon you shall learn that.
MERLIN
Oh, great. Just what I needed, another riddle.
KILGHARRAH
That your and Arthur's path lies together is but the truth.
MERLIN
What is that supposed to mean?
KILGHARRAH
You know, young warlock, this is not the end. It is the beginning.
MERLIN
Just give me a straight answer!
--
[31:50, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – NIGHT]
[Merlin sits on the steps. Gwen approaches.]
GWEN
Hello, Merlin.
MERLIN
All right?
[Gwen sits next to him.]
GWEN
Is it true what you said about Valiant using magic?
[Merlin nods.]
GWEN
What are you going to do?
MERLIN
Why does everyone seem to think it's down to me to do something about it?
GWEN
Because it is! Isn't it? You have to show everyone that you were right and they
were wrong.
MERLIN
And how do I do that?
GWEN
I don't know.
[Merlin catches sight of a dog statue.]
MERLIN
That's it.
GWEN
Where are you going?
MERLIN
Do you have a wheelbarrow?
--
[Merlin wheels in the dog statue.]
GAIUS
What are you doing with that?
MERLIN
I'm going to let everyone see the snakes for themselves.
[Merlin puts the statue in his chamber and pull the magic book out from under a
floor board.]
MERLIN
"Bebay odothay. Bebay odothay arisan quickum."
[Merlin tries out the spell.]
MERLIN
Bebay odothay arisan quickum. Bebay odothay arisan quickum.
--
[33:35, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Morgana has a nightmare about Arthur fighting Valiant and jerks awake]
MORGANA (whisper)
Arthur!
[Morgana gets up and goes to the window to watch Arthur practicing in the Square
below.]
--
[34:00, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Merlin tries the spell over and over but nothing happens.]
--
[34:16, Merlin enters Arthur's open chambers]
ARTHUR
I thought I told you to get out of my sight.
MERLIN
Don't fight Valiant in the tournament tomorrow. He'll use the shield against you.
ARTHUR
I know.
MERLIN
Then withdraw. You have to withdraw.
ARTHUR
Don't you understand? I can't withdraw. The people expect their prince to fight.
How can I lead men into battle if they think I'm a coward?
MERLIN
Valiant will kill you. If you fight, you die.
ARTHUR
Then I die.
MERLIN
How can you go out there and fight like that?
ARTHUR
Because I have to. It's my duty.
--
[35:12, Merlin's Chamber – DAY]
[Merlin wakes early the next morning with the spell book in his lap, and speaks
drowsily.]
MERLIN
Bebay odothay...arisan quickum.
[Valiant sharpens his sword near the tournament grounds. Arthur stands in the arena
and looks around.]
--
[35:38, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Arthur's old serving boy, Morris, helps him with his armour. Morgana enters,
Morris bows and exits. Morgana puts her hands on Arthur's back and he begins to
turn around.]
MORGANA
Let me.
[Morgana fixes the strap for the gorget and tightens the vambrace.]
MORGANA
I used to help my father with his armour.
[Morgana hands Arthur his helmet.]
ARTHUR
Thanks.
[Arthur turns to leave.]
MORGANA
Arthur, be careful.
[Arthur nods.]
ARTHUR
See you at the feast.
--
[Arthur enters the arena. Arthur and Valiant put on their helmets prepare to
fight.]
--
[37:40, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER – DAY]
[Merlin mumbles the spell with his eyes close.]
MERLIN
Bebay odothay arisan quickum.
[There's a growl, but Merlin keeps repeating the spell.]
MERLIN
[The Rottweiler barks.]

MERLIN
I did it!
[The dog starts lunging at Merlin, he rushes out of the room and shuts the door.
Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Arthur's fighting Valiant!
MERLIN
I know. I'm on my way. Oh, whatever you do, don't go into my room. We'll deal with
it later.
[Gaius peeks into Merlin's Chamber and the Rottweiler barks at him.]
--
[Arthur fights Valiant. Arthur knocks Valiant's helmet off. Arthur removes his
helmet and they both pull down their mail coifs. Valiant knocks Arthur to the
ground and steps on his shield. Valiant disarms Arthur, but Arthur catches him
before he can strike. Valiant pins Arthur against a wall, but Arthur shoves him off
and Merlin takes the opportunity]
MERLIN
[The snakes come out of the shield. the crowd stands up in surprise]
VALIANT
What are you doing? I didn't summon you!
UTHER
He is using magic.
ARTHUR
And now they see you for what you really are.
[Valiant chuckles darkly and sends the snakes to the ground.]
VALIANT
Kill him!
[Arthur backs up toward the stands and Morgana grabs a the sword from the knight
sitting next to her and throws it to Arthur.]
MORGANA
Arthur!
[Arthur catches it, swings at Valiant and then kills the snakes. Arthur disarms
Valiant and runs him through]
ARTHUR
It looks like I'll be going to the feast after all.
[Valiant drops and crowd cheers. Arthur slaps Merlin's shoulder on his way out of
the tournament grounds.]
--
[41:46, INT. KING’S PALACE, BANQUET HALL - NIGHT]
[Courtiers mingle. Uther spots Arthur entering.]
UTHER
My honourable guests, I give you Prince Arthur, your champion.
[The court applauds and Arthur offers Morgana his arm.]
ARTHUR
My Lady.
[Morgana curtsies.]
MORGANA
My champion.
MERLIN
See, I told you he gets all the girls and the glory.
GAIUS
And he owes it all to you.
MORGANA
Has your father apologised yet for not believing you?
ARTHUR
He'll never apologise. I hope, uh, you're not disappointed Valiant's not escorting
you.
MORGANA
Turns out he wasn't really champion material.
ARTHUR
That was some tournament final.
MORGANA
Tell me about it. It's not every day a girl gets to save her prince.
ARTHUR
Uh, I wouldn't say I needed exactly saving. I'm sure I would've thought of
something.
MORGANA
So you're too proud to admit you were saved by a girl.
ARTHUR
Because I wasn't.
MORGANA
You know what? I wish Valiant was escorting me.
ARTHUR
Me too. Then I wouldn't have to listen to you.
MORGANA
Fine!
ARTHUR
Fine.
[Morgana storms off to talk to Gwen. Arthur turns to Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Can you believe Morgana? She says she saved me. Like I needed any help. I wanted to
say I made a mistake. It was unfair to sack you.
MERLIN
No, don't worry about it. Buy me a drink and call it even.
ARTHUR
Uh, I can't be seen to be buying drinks for my servant.
MERLIN
Your servant? You sacked me.
ARTHUR
Now I'm rehiring you.
[Merlin snorts.]
ARTHUR
My chambers are a complete mess. My clothes need washing. My, uh, armour needs
repairing. My boots need cleaning. My dogs need exercising. My fireplace needs
sweeping. My bed needs changing. And someone needs to muck out my stables.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 22:57
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BBC Merlin: 1x03 The Mark of Nimueh
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:12, INT. CAVE – DAY]
NIMUEH
*spell*
[Nimueh places a magic egg into water. it travels through underground waterways to
a manmade cavern. Nimueh watches Camelot from her water basin.]
NIMUEH
*spell*
--
[Gaius and Merlin look over corpse in the street.]
MERLIN
Aren't you sacred?
GAIUS
Of what?
MERLIN
That you might catch whatever it is.
GAIUS
I'm the court physician, Merlin. This is part of my job. Most of the time there's
nothing really to be scared of.
[Gaius turns over corps to reveal white skinned, white eyed face.]
MERLIN
You were saying?
GAIUS
People mustn't see this. They'll panic.
--
[02:36, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE – DAY]
[Gwen and her father get ready at home.]
GWEN
Dad, here's your sandwich.
TOM
Ooh. Mmm, what's in it?
GWEN
It's smoked pigeon. But I'd say there's more smoke than pigeon.
TOM (laughs)
You're such a good girl to me.
GWEN
And I've done you some watercress soup tonight.
TOM
Don't tell me, with more water in it than cress?
[Gwen laughs and they hug.]
GWEN
I'll see you later.
TOM
K. Bye.
--
[03:03, EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE – DAY]
[Merlin and Gaius wheel the body over the castle drawbridge. Gwen approaches
carrying the flowers she had at home.]
GWEN
What are you doing?
MERLIN
Er...just moving something.
GAIUS
Looks heavy.
MERLIN
Er, it's nothing really. Er...someone got you flowers?
GWEN
Oh! No. *giggle* Would you like one? A purple one. Purple suits you. Not that I'm
saying red doesn't suit you.
MERLIN
Thanks. Well, er...
[Merlin sticks the flower in his scarf.]
GWEN
Aww.
MERLIN
Er...see you.
GWEN
Bye.
--
[03:45, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Gwen enters with flowers.]
MORGANA
You look happy.
GWEN
I picked these for you.
MORGANA
Oh, that's so sweet.
GWEN
Something to cheer you up. I know you're not sleeping well.
MORGANA
You cheer me up.
GWEN
Would you like me to put them in water for you?
--
[Merlin and Gaius looking at body with magnifying glass.]
GAIUS
I've never seen anything like this before.
MERLIN
Do you think it could be some kind of plague?
GAIUS
No. I fear that something like this could never come from nature. But who has this
kind of power?
MERLIN
You think it's caused by magic?
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Merlin opens door before Arthur can come in and see the body.]
MERLIN
Erm...I'm on my way. Sorry I'm late.
ARTHUR
Don't worry. I'm getting used to it.
[Arthur furrows his eyebrows when he sees the flower in Merlin's scarf. Merlin
looks down at it.]
MERLIN Oh, er...Gwen, she gave it to me.
ARTHUR
Tell Gaius my father wants to see him now.
MERLIN
Okay.
[Merlin closes the door.]
MERLIN
Gaius...
GAIUS
I heard.
MERLIN
Wait, why couldn't he just tell you himself?
GAIUS
'Cause that's the way it is. You're a servant.
MERLIN
Wha...if he knew who I was, what I've done...
GAIUS
You'd be a dead servant. Right, get this covered up.
MERLIN
Hey, I'm not your servant.
GAIUS
No, you're my dogsbody. Come on, hurry up.
--
[04:58, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM – DAY]
[Gaius examines a magically dead servant on the floor.]
UTHER
What's happened to him?
GAIUS
I don't know, Sire. It's the second case I've seen today.
UTHER
Why didn't you report it to me?
GAIUS
I was attempting to find the cause.
UTHER
What did you conclude?
GAIUS
I don't think it's time to hurry to conclusions. A scientific process is a long
one.
UTHER
What are you concealing from me?
GAIUS
Sire, I have seen nothing like it. The victims are dying in 24 hours, and it's
spreading fast.
UTHER
What is the cause?
GAIUS
I think you should say that the cause, the most likely cause, is sorcery.
[Uther pulls Arthur aside.]
UTHER
We must find who did this.
ARTHUR
I will, father.
UTHER (scared whisper)

Conduct door to door searches. Increase your presence in the town. Double the
guards on all the gates. And lend the physician your servant.
ARTHUR
Merlin? But...
UTHER
I'm going to need Gaius to find a cure. He needs all the help we can give him. If
Gaius is right, believe me, this city will be wiped out. This is the kind of magic
that undermines our authority, challenges all we've done. If we cannot control this
plague, people will turn to magic for a cure. We have to find this sorcerer, and
quickly.
ARTHUR
Yes, father.
--
[06:24,
[Arthur and guards search the city. Merlin and Gaius walk through town. Merlin sees
a sick person]
MERLIN
Gaius? Gaius. He's still alive.
GAIUS
I'm afraid there's nothing we can do for him.
MERLIN
But we haven't tried.
GAIUS
If we don't know what a disease is, then how can we cure him?
MERLIN
With magic.
GAIUS
Have a look. They're suspicious of everyone.
MERLIN
This is not the time to be using magic. Science will lead us to the source of the
disease.
--
[07:04, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS]
[Gaius heats a vial of liquid.]
MERLIN
What are you doing?
GAIUS
I'm examining the contents of that man's stomach.
MERLIN
Will that tell you who did it?
GAIUS
No, but it might tell us how it's spread. One thing I do know, this is magic of the
darkest kind.
MERLIN
Why would someone use magic like that?
GAIUS
Magic corrupts. People use it for their own ends.
MERLIN
But not all magic is bad. I know it isn't.
GAIUS
It's neither good nor bad. It's how you use it.
[Arthur and guards burst in]
ARTHUR (to Guard)

Over there. (to Gaius) Sorry Gaius, we're searching every room in town.
GAIUS
What for?
ARTHUR
A sorcerer.
GAIUS
But why would he be here?
ARTHUR
I'm just doing my job.
GAIUS
We've nothing to hide. Go on, then. Search.
ARTHUR
All these books and papers?
GAIUS
My life's work, dedicated to the understanding of science. You are quite welcome to
read through them if you wish.
ARTHUR
What's this room up here?
MERLIN
Er, it's mine.
GAIUS
And what do you expect to find in there?
ARTHUR
I'm looking for material or evidence suggesting the use of enchantments.
GAIUS
What've you done with the magic book I gave you?
[Merlin looks worried. Arthur enters his room.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, come here. Look what I found.
[Merlin goes in.]
ARTHUR
I found a place where you can put things. It's called a cupboard.
[Merlin spots book on the floor and magically covers it with his bed sheet. Arthur
looks under the bed, but misses the book and exits Merlin's room.]
ARTHUR
How long do you think it may be before you find a cure?
GAIUS
It depends on how many interruptions I get.
ARTHUR
Of course, I'm sorry. (to Guards) We're finished here.
[They exit. Gaius closes the door.]
GAIUS
We have to hide that book.
MERLIN
No. We must use it.
GAIUS
Don't be stupid.
MERLIN
If I have this legacy then what is it for? You keep telling me it's not for playing
tricks.
GAIUS
You want to practice magic when the King is hunting for sorcerers? Are you mad?
Merlin, your life is destined for more important things.
MERLIN
But if I don't practice, then how will I get to be this great warlock?!
GAIUS
There will come a time when your skills will be recognised.
MERLIN
When?! How long do I have to wait?
GAIUS
Patience is a virtue, Merlin.
MERLIN
Sitting by and doing nothing, that's a virtue?
GAIUS
Your time will come.
MERLIN
I could cure that man we saw.
GAIUS
I know it's tempting to use the way you find easiest, Merlin...
MERLIN
It is when it would save a life.
GAIUS
It's no good just saving one person. We have to discover how this illness is
spreading.
MERLIN
Arthur is out there right now looking for the sorcerer!
GAIUS
A sorcerer who's powerful enough to do this will never be found searching the town.
MERLIN (sigh)
So what can we do?
GAIUS
Hope that science can find the answer before it kills us all.
--
[10:43, INT. CAVE – DAY]
[Nimueh watches the Afanc in her stone basin. a woman draws water from the spout in
the Lower Town. covered bodies are lined up in the courtyard.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Arthur enters . Uther is waiting.]
ARTHUR
We searched everywhere, the entire city.
UTHER
Nothing?
ARTHUR
I don't know where else to look.
UTHER
I want you to impose a curfew. No one is to be allowed onto the streets after the
great bell.
ARTHUR
Father?
UTHER
And cordon off the lower town.
ARTHUR
Why?
UTHER
Because that's where most of the victims are. Let's isolate it, stop this disease
from spreading.
ARTHUR
What about the people who live there?
UTHER
Don't you think I haven't considered it? What else can I do? I have to protect the
rest of the city.
[Arthur bows and exits.]
--
[Gaius and Merlin examine another corpse.]
GAIUS
What's different about this victim?
MERLIN
Er...she's a woman.
GAIUS
Sometimes I do wonder whether you're a magical talents were given to the right
person. Anything else?
MERLIN
Erm...she's a courtier.
GAIUS
Ah.
MERLIN
How does that help us?
GAIUS
Courtiers seldom go down to the lower town. So what does that mean?
MERLIN
Erm....that, that she hasn't spoken to any townspeople.
[Gaius looks pained.]
GAIUS
Yes, it suggests that the disease is not spread by contact.
MERLIN
Oh, and they probably ate different food.
GAIUS
Good. Anything else?
MERLIN
Erm...I doubt they breathe the same air.
GAIUS
So what's the only thing they do share?
MERLIN
Water. Water? You think the disease is spread through water?
GAIUS
Merlin, you're a prodigy.
[Gaius hands Merlin a bucket. Merlin walks to Lower Town well.]
--
[Gwen ties her cloak.]
GWEN
It's time to get up, Dad. Dad?
[She turns him over.]
TOM
Gwen.
[Tom is magically sick. Gwen panics and runs to the castle crying, passing Merlin
at the well.]
MERLIN
Gwen? Gwen!
[Merlin grabs bucket of water and runs after her.]

--
[Gwen enters.]
GAIUS
Gwen!
GWEN
Gaius.
GAIUS
You have the sickness?
[Gwen shakes her head.]
GWEN
My father! Please, Gaius, he's all I have.
GAIUS
Gwen, I have no cure.
GWEN
I am begging you!
GAIUS
I wish there was something, anything, but so far the remedy is beyond what I can
achieve.
[Gaius takes her hand.]
GAIUS
I'm sorry, Gwen.
[Gwen runs out of the room.]
MERLIN
There must be something we can do.
GAIUS
My best. Let's hope that this can provide some answers.
MERLIN
But that'll be too late for Gwen's father.
GAIUS
I fear you may be right.
[Gaius puts some of the water in a jar, and places a flower in it. Merlin goes to
his room.]
--
[Merlin checks on snoring Gaius, pulls out his magic book, and sneaks past the
guards.]
GUARD 1
What about over...in there?
GUARD 2
Certainly, sir.
[Guards poke spears into haystacks. A guard approaches Merlin's hiding spot.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Onstyrian, onbregdan.
[The door across the street creaks open. A guard nears and the door hits him in the
face. Merlin goes to Gwen's house. Gwen and Tom are sleeping. Merlin puts a
poultice under Tom's pillow.]
MERLIN
þu fornimst adl fram guman.
[Merlin exits and watches them outside the door. Tom wakes and touches Gwen's head,
which is resting on his bedside.]
GWEN
Father?
TOM
Gwen.
GWEN
What's happened? I can't believe it!
[Gwen hugs her father.]
--
[16:38, more covered bodies are laid out in the Square. Nimueh continues watching
in her stone basin]
--
[Arthur reaches for glass vial with the tainted water and flower in it.]
GAIUS
Don't touch it. I had this in the water for no more than a few hours.
UTHER
Where's the water from?
GAIUS
The pump from where the people take their daily supply.
ARTHUR
We have to stop the people from using it.
GAIUS
The city cannot survive without water.
UTHER
We have to find this sorcerer!
ARTHUR
I don't believe that they're inside Camelot.
UTHER
Then extend the search to the villages!
ARTHUR
We've started, but I can't search the entire kingdom.
UTHER
And I can't stand by and watch our people dying.
[Arthur nods and exits]
--
[Merlin enters. Gwen hums as she gathers Morgana's clothes.]
MERLIN
How's your father? Is he feeling better?
GWEN
Yeah, it's incredible. It's a miracle.
MERLIN
His skin's clear, back to normal?
GWEN
Yes.
MERLIN
Great.
[Merlin beams and turns to leave.]
GWEN
You don't seem surprised.
MERLIN
No, no, I am. It's a miracle.
GWEN
But how did you know he was well?
MERLIN
Er...because you're smiling.
GWEN
That's really weird because I haven't told anyone, but you know. How could you
know?
MERLIN
Yeah. Alright. You finally found out, I'll tell you. *swallows* I'm psychic.
GWEN (giggle)
No you're not.
MERLIN
It's true.
GWEN
Alright, what am I thinking?
MERLIN
That I'm not psychic.
GWEN (giggle)
You're strange. I, I don't mean that in a nasty way. You're just funny. I like
that.
MERLIN
Erm, er, I 'm pleased for you.
GWEN
Thank you.
MERLIN
What for?
GWEN
Don't know, just for asking.
MERLIN
I didn't like to see you upset. I have to...get on.
[Merlin waves awkwardly. Gwen waves back. Merlin leaves. Gwen smiles.]
--
[18:41, INT. BLACKSMITH’S – DAY]
[Tom works at his forge. Townspeople watch him. Arthur approaches with guards.]
ARTHUR
The story is you were sick.
TOM
Not anymore.
ARTHUR
Perhaps you were suffering from some other ailment?
TOM
Oh, you're joking. I felt like death itself, not enough strength in me to stir the
air.
ARTHUR
Then...what happened?
TOM
Oh, I don't know. Suddenly it was gone. I'm fitter than I was before.
ARTHUR
That's remarkable. Was anybody with you when all this happened?
TOM
Just my daughter, Gwen.
[Arthur leaves and Tom goes back to work. Arthur and guards search Gwen and Tom's
house. Guard finds glowing poultice.]
--
[Gwen hums as she carries away a vase full of dead flowers. Arthur and guards
enter.]
ARTHUR
Seize her.
GWEN
No.
ARTHUR
Guinevere, I'm arresting you for crimes and contraventions of the laws of Camelot,
that you did practice enchantments.
[Morgana enters.]
MORGANA
Gwen?
GWEN
But what have I done? I haven't done anything! Help me, please!
MORGANA
What are you doing?
ARTHUR
I found a magic poultice in her house.
MORGANA
Oh, that's ridiculous.
ARTHUR
Then how else do you explain her father's recovery?
MORGANA
Well, she's innocent! I know she's innocent.
ARTHUR
What can I do? I can't turn a blind eye!
[Arthur exits and Morgana scoffs.]
--
[20:35, INT. KING’S PALACE, UPPER CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Arthur and guards drag Gwen down the corridor.]
GWEN
No, please. You've got to listen to me! Please, I haven't done anything wrong! You
have to listen to me, please! I am innocent, I swear! Let me go! I swear to you!
[Gwen turns her head and sees Merlin approaching her.]
GWEN
Merlin! Merlin, please help me! (to guards) Why won't you listen to me?!
[Gaius takes Merlin's arm and escorts him out.]
GWEN
Please listen to me!
--
[Merlin and Gaius enter and Gaius slams the door.]
GAIUS
What've you done?!
MERLIN
What?
GAIUS
I warned you! Oh, I understand. You thought you were doing good.
MERLIN
I couldn't let her father die knowing I could cure him.
GAIUS
Didn't you think it might look a bit suspicious, the curing of one man?
MERLIN
Well then, all I have to do is...I'll cure everyone! No one will ever have to know
it was magic.
GAIUS
It's too late! They think Gwen's a sorceress! They think she caused the disease!
MERLIN
But she didn't!
[Merlin rushes to leave.]
GAIUS
Oh, and how are you going to prove that?!
[Merlin stops to think, then leaves.]
--
[Arthur enters and guards drag Gwen in behind him.]
GWEN
Please listen to me I have done nothing, please! I swear I haven't done anything!
[Guards drop her on the floor.]
Uther (to Arthur)

Well done.
GWEN
Why will no one believe me?! He got better, he just recovered. I didn't do
anything!
[Morgana enters.]
MORGANA
I believe you. Perhaps this is a disease that is not always fatal. Have you thought
of that? Perhaps he recovered naturally.
UTHER
And what of this poultice that was found?
GWEN
What poultice? I don't know anything about a poultice!
UTHER
It was found in your house. Undo this enchantment. Put an end to this contagion.
GWEN
I can't!
UTHER
I will show you no mercy.
GWEN
I am not a witch. I don't know how to stop the illness!
UTHER
If you will not undo your sorcery, you force my hand and I must find you guilty...
GWEN
But I told you, I...
UTHER
It is therefore my duty to pronounce judgment. And under the circumstance I have no
choice but to sentence you to death.
GWEN
No.
UTHER
I can only hope that when you die, this evil plague dies with you.
GWEN
No! No!
UTHER
Take her away.
[Guards drag Gwen backwards out of the room.]
GWEN
Please, no! I'm innocent! Please, please, no! Please help me! Please, I beg you!
No!
[The courtiers leave. Morgana watches Gwen get dragged off, then turns to Uther.]
MORGANA
I know Gwen, she's my maidservant, not an enchantress.
UTHER
Have you ever seen an enchantress? Believe me, they bear no sign, no mark. There is
no sense of evil in the eye.
MORGANA
I've seen the way the girl works. Her fingers are worn, her nails are broken. If
she was a sorceress, why would she do this? Why would she kneel on a cold stone
floor morning after morning when she could make these things happen with a snap of
her fingers? Like an idle king!
UTHER
You have no right!
MORGANA
You have a right to cast a judgment on that girl!
UTHER
I have a responsibility to take care of this kingdom! I take no pleasure in this!
MORGANA
But you're sentencing the wrong person!
ARTHUR
She's right, Father. You hear the word magic, you no longer listen.
UTHER
You saw it for yourself. She used enchantments.
ARTHUR
Yes, maybe. But to save her dying father, that doesn't make her guilty of creating
a plague. One's the act of, of kindness, of love, the other of evil. I don't
believe evil's in this girl's heart.
UTHER
I have witnessed what witchcraft can do. I have suffered at its hand. I cannot take
that chance. If there is the slightest doubt about this girl, she must die or the
whole kingdom may perish.
ARTHUR
I understand that.
UTHER
One day you may become King. Then you will understand. Such decisions must be made.
There are dark forces that threaten this kingdom.
ARTHUR
I know. Witchcraft is an evil, father. So is injustice. Yes, I am yet to be King,
and I don't know what kind of king I will be, but I do have a sense of the kind of
Camelot I would wish to live in. It would be where the punishment fits the crime.
UTHER
I fear you're right. She's played with fire, and sadly she must die by fire.
[Morgana leaves. Arthur paces the Council Chamber.]
--
MERLIN
I thought I was doing good and that curing Gwen's father would help her. I thought
I was saving a life. It seemed so simple.
GAIUS
An easy solution is like a light in a storm, Merlin. Rush for it at your peril, for
it may not always lead you to a safe harbour.
MERLIN
I can see that now.
GAIUS
How many times have I warned you about the responsibilities of being a warlock?
MERLIN
I must see her.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS]
[Merlin leaves, goes down stairs to the dungeon, passes a weeping Morgana on
Wrought Iron Stairway.]
MERLIN
Gwen.
[Gwen tries to get to the cell door, but her chains don't stretch that far. She's
been crying.]
GWEN
Thank you.
MERLIN
What for?
GWEN
For coming to see me.
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
GWEN
It's not your fault.
MERLIN
Well...
GWEN
It's alright. Don't worry about me. There's no point crying about it. I mean...I
mean, I'm not saying that you were going to cry about me. Obviously I don't think
that.
MERLIN
Oh, Gwen. I can't have this happen.
GWEN
Please, one thing. You, you don't have to, but...
MERLIN
What?
GWEN
Remember me.
MERLIN
You're not going to die. I'm not going to let this happen.
[Merlin leaves, rushing up the Wrought Iron Stairway.]
--
[26:37, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM]
[Uther consulting his advisors.]
UTHER
What if burning this witch doesn't stop the poison? How do I protect my people? My
men have closed down the water pumps.
GAIUS
But the emergency supply won't last for much longer. We have to find a way of
cleansing the water of the disease.
UTHER
But how?
GAIUS
Well...
[The doors open and Merlin bursts in.]
MERLIN
It was me! It was me who used magic to cure Gwen's father!
[The council stares at him.]
MERLIN
Gwen is not the sorcerer. I am!
[Gaius stands up.]
GAIUS
Merlin! Are you mad?
MERLIN
I cannot let her die for me. (to Uther) I place myself at your mercy.
GAIUS
He doesn't know what he's talking about.
MERLIN
I do.
UTHER
Then arrest him.
ARTHUR
Father, please! I can't allow this! This is madness! There's no way Merlin is a
sorcerer.
UTHER
Did you not hear him?
ARTHUR
Yes.
UTHER
He admitted it.
ARTHUR
He saved my life, remember.
UTHER
Why should he fabricate such a story.
ARTHUR
As Gaius said, he's got a...grave mental disease.
UTHER
Really?
ARTHUR
He's in love.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
With Gwen.
[Uther grins.]
MERLIN
I am not.
ARTHUR
Yes, you are.
MERLIN
No way.
ARTHUR
I saw yesterday with that flower she'd given you.
MERLIN
I'm not in love with her.
[Arthur puts his arm around Merlin.]
ARTHUR
It's all right. You can admit it.
MERLIN
I don't even think of her like that!
UTHER
Perhaps she cast a spell on you.
[Arthur looks at his father worriedly. Uther snickers. Other council members
snicker, and Arthur smiles in relief.]
ARTHUR
Merlin is a wonder, but the wonder is that he's such an idiot. There's no way he's
a sorcerer.
UTHER
Don't waste my time again. Let him go.
--
MERLIN
Arthur's the idiot.
GAIUS
No. He was right to do what he did. And, thankfully, he saved you from your own
stupidity.
MERLIN
What else could I do? It's my fault Gwen's going to die.
GAIUS
Yes, but you don't prove her innocence by offering to jump into the flames. You do
it by finding out what's causing the disease!
MERLIN
Well, whatever it is, one thing's for sure: Arthur isn't going to find it. He
thinks he is so sharp! But even when I told him I was a wizard, he still couldn't
see it.
GAIUS
Sometimes they're pretty hard to spot.
MERLIN
Well, maybe I should go around wearing a pointy hat.
GAIUS
I don't think you'll find one big enough. Anyway, forget that. If we're going to
save Gwen, we have to find out what's contaminating the water.
--
[29:04, INT. TUNNEL WATER SUPPLY]
[Gaius and Merlin go to the underground entrance to the water supply. Nimueh's
watching in her stone basin]
GAIUS
The water from here supplies the whole town. Take a sample.
[Merlin puts bottle in the water.]
GAIUS
Let's take it back and examine it.
[An Afanc rears up out of the water.]
MERLIN
What the hell was that?
[Gaius takes Merlin's arm and they leave.]
--
[30:25, Physician's Chambers.
[Gaius and Merlin look at a book.]
GAIUS
Here. It was an Afanc.
MERLIN
An...a what?
GAIUS
A beast born of clay, and conjured up only by the most powerful sorcerer. Now we
have to find a way to defeat it. But where?
[Gaius looks at shelves of books.]
MERLIN
That could take days. Gwen'll be dead by then.
GAIUS
Have you got a better idea?
[Merlin sees pyre being built in the Square on his way to the dungeons. sees Gwen
lying on the cell floor.]
MERLIN
Gwen? I'm going to get you out. I will.
[Merlin leaves.]
--
[31:36, INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON'S CAVE]
MERLIN
Hello?
KILGHARRAH
Hello.
[The Great Dragon flies down.]
KILGHARRAH
The great warlock returns, as I knew he would.
MERLIN
I need to know how to defeat an Afanc.
KILGHARRAH
Yes, I suppose you do.
MERLIN
Will you help me?
KILGHARRAH
Trust the elements that are at your command.
MERLIN
Elements? But what is it I have to do?
KILGHARRAH
You cannot do this alone. You are but one side of a coin. Arthur is the other.
MERLIN
I-- I don't understand. Just tell me what it is I have to do.
[Kilgharrah flies off.]
MERLIN
No! Please, help me!
KILGHARRAH
I have.
[Kilgharrah laughs.]
MERLIN
Oh, yeah, right. Thanks.
--
[Arthur enters.]
UTHER
Have you found anything more?
ARTHUR
I've tried. I can keep looking.
UTHER
People are dying, we can't delay any longer. We must kill the witch. Bring her
execution forward to tonight.
[Arthur bows his head and exits.]
--
[Merlin frantically searches through books. Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Merlin, what are you doing?
MERLIN
Looking for a book.
GAIUS
You going to tell me which one?
MERLIN
A book on elements.
GAIUS
Elements?
MERLIN
Yes. Which one would I find them in?
GAIUS
Well, most of them. The study of base elements is at the very heart of the
scientific process.
MERLIN
But how would they help me kill the Afanc?
GAIUS
Well, the Afanc is a creature made from earth and water. That's two of the four
base elements.
MERLIN
What about the other two?
GAIUS
Well, perhaps they will destroy it. You want fire. Wind and fire. How did you find
this out?
MERLIN
Erm...I just knew, you know? One of my powers.
GAIUS
What else do your powers tell you?
MERLIN
That I am only one side of a coin. The brighter side, obviously.
GAIUS
And who's the other side?
MERLIN
I think that might be Arthur.
MORGANA
They're bringing forward the execution. We have to prove Gwen's innocence.
GAIUS
We're trying.
MORGANA
Please, just tell me what I can do to help.
MERLIN
We need Arthur.
MORGANA
Arthur?
MERLIN
There's a monster, an Afanc, in the water supply. That's what's causing the plague.
MORGANA
Well, we must tell Uther.
GAIUS
The Afanc's a creature forged by magic. Telling Uther wouldn't save Gwen. He'd just
blame her for conjuring it.
MORGANA
So, what are we to do?
MERLIN
We need to destroy it. Then the plague will stop and Uther may see sense.
MORGANA
And that's why you need Arthur.
MERLIN
He's our best chance. But he won't want to disobey the King.
MORGANA
Leave that to me.
[Morgana exits. Gaius gives Merlin the keys to the water supply tunnels.]
--
[34:34, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Arthur enters. Morgana is waiting for him.]
ARTHUR
You alright? Sorry about all this [indicated the mess on the table.]. Merlin's not
been in today.
MORGANA
Poor Merlin.
ARTHUR
Yeah.
MORGANA
To offer to give up his life to save Gwen's. I certainly can't imagine any man
loving me so much.
ARTHUR
No, I certainly can't imagine that either.
[Morgana smirks.]
MORGANA
That's because you're not like Merlin. He's a lover.
ARTHUR
Yeah, maybe that's because I haven't found the right person to love.
MORGANA
Sadly the age of gallantry seems to be dead. You look around and all you see are
small men, not big enough to fill their armour. There's not one of them that' s
able to stand up for what is right.
[Arthur smirks at Morgana's obvious manipulative insult.]
ARTHUR
What do you want me to do?
--
[35:15, EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/WATER TUNNEL - DAY]
[Morgana and Arthur walk into the Square where Merlin meets them. Arthur draws his
sword. They open tunnel door and Arthur lights a torch before they descend.]
ARTHUR
You'd better be right about this, Merlin.
[They hear low growl. Morgana gasps.]
ARTHUR
You should stay here.
MORGANA
I'm coming with you.
ARTHUR
No.
MORGANA
Scared I'll show you up?
ARTHUR
Father will slam us both in chains if he knew I'd endangered you.
MORGANA
Well good thing he doesn't know about it then.
ARTHUR
I'm telling you, Morgana, turn back. You could get hurt.
MORGANA
You could you...if you don't get out of my way.
[Merlin's amused. Arthur rolls his eyes.]
MORGANA
How are we going to find it?
MERLIN
I just hope we do before it finds us.
[Arthur spins around.]
ARTHUR
Stop.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
It's just a shadow.
[They keep moving. the Afanc creeps out of shadows behind them. they reach the
water source.]
ARTHUR
Spread out.
[They split up. Arthur hears growl and Afanc swipes at him from behind, then
disappears. Morgana rushes to him.]
MORGANA
What is it? Are you alright?
ARTHUR
Yeah.
MERLIN
Did you see it?
ARTHUR
Yes.
MERLIN
What did it look like?
ARTHUR
It--it's quick.
[The Afanc come up in front of Morgana. She screams. Arthur goes for it, but it
disappears again.]
ARTHUR
Where is it?
MERLIN
I think it's gone this way!
[They walk. the Afanc creeps slowly out around corner into full view. Arthur swings
at it and loses his sword. it also swipes away Morgana's torch. Arthur circles it
with torch.]
MERLIN
Arthur, use the torch!
[Arthur swings the torch.]
MERLIN
Lyfte ic þe in balwen ac forhienan.
[Merlin's spell blows flames into the Afanc, incinerating it.]
--
[39:30, INT. CAVE]
[Nimueh watches in her stone basin.]
NIMUEH
Merlin. Mah!
[She splashes the water in anger.]
--
[39:36, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Uther laughs over some parchment with his advisors.]
UTHER
It's very good.
GAIUS
Good news, Sire. There are no new deaths, and those that are sick are recovering.
UTHER
Good. Strange, I've never heard of an Afanc before.
GAIUS
It's conjured from clay by powerful magic. The type that can only be invoked by an
ancient sorcerer. One that has the power to mirror the spirit of life. I found this
at the water source.
[Gaius shows him a cracked egg shell.]
GAIUS
It bears the mark of Nimueh. We must be vigilant, Sire.
UTHER
Will I never be rid of her?
GAIUS
Sire.
UTHER
Leave me!
[Everyone exits. Uther sits on the throne and mopes.]
--
[Guards open Gwen's cell. Gwen's father, Merlin, and Morgana enters.]
GWEN
Dad!
[They hug.]
TOM
Oh, my little child!
[Gwen reaches to grasp Morgana's hand.]
GWEN
Thank you!
MORGANA
Don't thank me. It was more Merlin.
GWEN
Really?
MORGANA
He's the real hero here.
GWEN
I don't know what to say.
MERLIN (shrugs)
I didn't do anything.
TOM
I'm-- I'm grateful to you all. Come on, Gwen.
[Tom and Gwen leave.]
MORGANA
Merlin. I wanted you to know, your secret's safe with me.
MERLIN
My secret?
MORGANA
Merlin, don't pretend. I know what you did.
MERLIN
You do?
MORGANA
I saw it with my own eyes.
MERLIN
You did?
MORGANA
I understand why you don't anyone to know.
MERLIN
Well, obviously.
MORGANA
But I won't tell anyone. You don't mind me talking to you about it?
MERLIN
Er...no. I- I, it's, er...you have no idea how hard it is to keep this hidden.
MORGANA
Well, you can continue to deny it, but I think Gwen's a very lucky woman.
MERLIN
Gwen?
[Morgana puts her finger to her lips.]
MORGANA
It's our secret.
[Morgana smiles as she leaves. Merlin sighs.]
--
[Merlin and Gaius eat dinner.]
MERLIN
This fish didn't come from the water, did it?
GAIUS
Well, where else is it going to come from? The water's fine now. That's not your
worry. This is the work of a very powerful sorcerer. I only hope you didn't come to
her attention.
MERLIN
Doubt it. Well no one else seems to appreciate my skills. I just want someone to
see me for who I am.
GAIUS
One day, Merlin. One day.
MERLIN
One day what?
GAIUS
One day people won't believe what an idiot you were.
MERLIN
Thanks.
[They toast. Nimueh watches them from her stone basin.]
NIMUEH
Merlin, you will pay for this.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 22:59
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BBC Merlin: 1x04 The Poisoned Chalice
<<< EPISODE 1X03 │ EPISODE 1x05 >>>
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:12, Nimueh drops some of her blood into a stone basin.]
NIMUEH
*spell*
[Nimueh drops a flower petal in the water. She watches Merlin in the water, pulls
out the petal and puts it in a silver goblet.]
NIMUEH
Merlin.
--
[00:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[Bayard and his men arrive in Camelot, they meet Uther his men in the Throne Room.]
UTHER
Camelot welcomes you, Lord Bayard of Mercia. The treaty we sign today marks and end
to war and a beginning to a new friendship between our people.
[Uther and Bayard grasp arms. both parties applaud while Nimueh stares Merlin
down.]
--
[02:10, INT. KING’S PALACE, UPPER CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Merlin passes Gaius while carrying a heavy bag.]
MERLIN
Why do I always get landed with the donkey work?
GAIUS
You're a servant, Merlin. It's what you do.
MERLIN
My arms will be a foot longer by the time I get this lot inside.
GAIUS
It's character building. As the old proverb says, hard work breeds...a harder soul.
MERLIN
There is no way that's a proverb. You just made that up.
GAIUS
No. I didn't.
[Nimueh fakes a fall right in front of Merlin.]
NIMUEH
Sorry.
MERLIN
It's alright.
NIMUEH
Excuse me.
MERLIN
Let me give you a hand with that.
[Merlin crouches down and catches Nimueh's eye. They stand up.]
MERLIN
Hi. I'm Merlin.
[Merlin shakes Nimueh’s hand.]
NIMUEH
Cara. You're Arthur's servant. That must be such an honour.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah. It is. Well, you know, someone's got to keep the place running.
NIMUEH
Thank you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Hmm?
[Merlin looks down at the pillow he picked up for her.]
MERLIN
Oh, right. Yeah. Er, no problem.
NIMUEH
It was nice meeting you.
[Merlin watches her leave.]
GAIUS
Shouldn't you be busy running the place?
[Gaius laughs.]
--
[03:08, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRDOR – DAY]
[Nimueh goes to Bayard's guest quarters.]
NIMUEH
Alysan duru ronne.
[The door opens. Nimueh enters and opens a box with two silver goblets inside. She
replaces one of them with an identical one that she enchanted at the beginning.]
--
[04:03, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin sets down Arthur's clothes for the feast and reels backwards, covering his
face.]
MERLIN
When's the last time these were cleaned?
ARTHUR
Last year some time. Before the feast of Beltane.
MERLIN
Did it end in a food fight?
ARTHUR
Don't all feasts?
MERLIN
I wouldn't know. The heirs and graces of the court are a mystery to me.
ARTHUR
Not tonight they won't be.
MERLIN
I'm gonna be at the banquet?
ARTHUR
Not quite. You'll be there to make sure my cup doesn't run dry. If I have to sit
through Bayard's boring speeches, I don't see why you should get out of it. Be sure
to polish the buttons. Do you want to see what you'll be wearing tonight?
MERLIN
Won't this do?
ARTHUR
No. Tonight you'll be wearing the official ceremonial robes of the servants of
Camelot.
[Arthur holds them up for Merlin to see.]
MERLIN
You can't be serious.
--
[05:12, INT. KING’S PALACE, BANQUET HALL – NIGHT]
[Bayard signs the treaty in the Hall of Ceremonies. Gwen chuckles at Merlin's
feathered hat.]
GWEN
Nice hat.
MERLIN
Thanks.
[Merlin catches Nimueh's eye and takes off the hat. Gwen notices his gaze.]
GWEN
She's pretty isn't she? For a handmaiden, I mean.
MERLIN
She's pretty for a princess, let alone a handmaiden.
GWEN
Mmm.
[Uther finishes signing the treaty and grasps arms with Bayard. The crowd applauds
and Gwen leaves Merlin.]
BAYARD
People of Camelot, for a great many years we have been mortal enemies, and the
blood of our men stains the ground from the walls of Camelot to the gates of
Mercia. And though we remember those who have died, we must not allow any more to
join them.
[A serving girl brings in the box with the goblets.]
BAYARD
As a symbol of our goodwill, and of our newfound friendship, I present these
ceremonial goblets to you, Uther, and to your son, Arthur, in the hope that our
friendship may last.
[Nimueh approaches Merlin with fake anxiety in her voice.]
NIMUEH
Merlin, I need to speak to you.
BAYARD
The wounds we received in battle...
MERLIN
What is it?
NIMUEH
Not here, please. I don't know who else to tell.
[Merlin leaves with Nimueh. Gaius notices.]
BAYARD
Tonight we toast a new beginning for our peoples. We look towards a future free
from the toils of war.
--
[06:47, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR – NIGHT]
[Nimueh and Merlin stop to talk in a corridor.]
NIMUEH
It wasn't until I saw him give the goblet to Arthur that I realised...
MERLIN
Whoa, slow down. Start from the beginning.
NIMUEH
Two days ago, I was bringing Bayard his evening meal. We're supposed to knock. He
didn't expect me to walk in...
MERLIN
So, what are you trying to say?
NIMUEH
If he knows I said anything, he will kill me.
MERLIN
I would not let that happen to you, I promise. Please tell me what you saw.
NIMUEH
Bayard is no friend of Camelot. He craves the kingdom for himself.
MERLIN
Cara...Tell me. What has Bayard done with the goblet?
NIMUEH
He believes that if he kills Arthur, Uther's spirit will be broken and Camelot will
fall.
MERLIN
What has he done with the goblet?
NIMUEH
I saw him putting something in it.
MERLIN
What?
NIMUEH
I shouldn't! He'll kill me!
MERLIN
Please, tell me! Was it poison?
[Nimueh nods. Merlin runs back to the Hall of Ceremonies and Nimueh smirks.]
--
[07:34, Hall of Ceremonies.]
BAYARD
And may the differences from our past remain there. To your health, Uther.
[Everyone stands to toast.]
BAYARD
Arthur.
[Arthur starts to drink.]
BAYARD
The Lady Morgana.
[Morgana nods. Arthur waits.]
BAYARD
The people of Camelot.
[Arthur starts to drink.]
UTHER
And to fallen warriors on both sides.
[Everyone starts to drink.]
MERLIN
Stop!
[Merlin runs in.]
MERLIN
It's poisoned! Don't drink it!
[Merlin runs up to Arthur and takes his goblet.]
UTHER
What?
ARTHUR
MERLIN
Bayard laced Arthur's goblet with poison.
BAYARD
This is an outrage!
[Bayard and his men draw their swords, so do the knights of Camelot.]
UTHER
Order your men to put down their swords.
[Camelot guards rush in.]
UTHER
You are outnumbered.
BAYARD
I will not allow this insult to go unchallenged!
UTHER
On what grounds do you base this accusation?
ARTHUR
I'll handle this.
[Arthur skirts around the table.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, you idiot. Have we been at the sloe gin again?
[Arthur grabs Merlin and takes the goblet.]
UTHER
Unless you want to be strung up, you will tell me why you think why you think it's
poisoned now.
MERLIN
He was seen lacing it.
UTHER
By whom?
MERLIN
I can't say.
BAYARD
I won't listen to this anymore.
UTHER
Pass me the goblet.
[Arthur hands it to him.]
UTHER
If you're telling the truth...
BAYARD
I am.
UTHER
Then you have nothing to fear, do you?
[Bayard sheathes his sword and reaches for the goblet.]
UTHER
No. If this does prove to be poisoned, I want the pleasure of killing you myself.
BAYARD
*snort*
[Uther hold the goblet up to Merlin.]
UTHER
He'll drink it.
ARTHUR
But if it is poisoned, he'll die!
UTHER
Then we'll know he was telling the truth.
BAYARD
And what if he lives?
UTHER
Then you have my apologies, and you can do with him as you will.
GAIUS
Uther, please! He's just a boy! He doesn't know what he's saying!
UTHER
Then you should've schooled him better.
ARTHUR
Merlin, apologise. This is a mistake. I'll drink it.
MERLIN
No, no, no, no, no. It's, it's alright.
[Merlin toasts to Bayard and Arthur, then drinks as Nimueh watches with glee. Gwen
takes a few steps forward in her anxiety.]
MERLIN
It's fine.
UTHER
He's all yours.
[Gwen sighs in relief. Merlin chokes and falls to the floor unconscious.]
UTHER
It's poisoned. Guards seize him!
[Arthur crouches over Merlin. Nimueh leaves. Gaius and Gwen crouch over Merlin.]
GAIUS
Merlin. Can you hear me? We have to get him back to my chambers. Bring the goblet.
I need to identify the poison.
[Merlin picks up Merlin and Gwen grabs the goblet.]
--
[Arthur enters carrying Merlin. Gaius and Gwen follow.]
GAIUS
Lay him on the bed quickly; he's struggling to breathe. Gwen, fetch me some water
and a towel.
ARTHUR
Is he gonna be alright?
GAIUS
He's burning up.
GWEN
You can cure him, can't you Gaius?
GAIUS
I won't know until I can identify the poison. Pass me the goblet.
[Gwen hands it to him.]
GAIUS
Ah. There's something stuck on the inside.
ARTHUR
What is it?
GAIUS
It looks like a flower petal of some kind.
GWEN
His brow's on fire.
GAIUS
Keep him cool; it'll help control his fever.
[Gwen tends to Merlin while Gaius pulls out a book.]
GAIUS
Ah. The petal comes from the Mortaeus flower. It says here that someone poisoned by
the Mortaeus can only be saved by a potion made from the leaf of the very same
flower. It can only be found in the caves deep beneath the Forest of Balor. The
flower grows on the roots of the Mortaeus tree.
ARTHUR
That's not particularly friendly.
GAIUS
A Cockatrice. It guards the forest. Its venom is potent. A single drop would mean
certain death. Few who have crossed the Mountains of Isgaard in search of the
Mortaeus flower have made it back alive.
ARTHUR
Sounds like fun.
GAIUS
Arthur, it's too dangerous.
ARTHUR
If I don't get the antidote, what happens to Merlin?
GAIUS
The Mortaeus induces a slow and painful death . He may hold out for four, maybe
five days, but not for much longer. Eventually he will die.
--
[13:08, EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWDRIDGE – NIGHT]
[Nimueh rides out of Camelot.]
--
[13:21, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Gwen enters.]
GWEN My Lady, I am so sorry I haven't been here to attend to you.
MORGANA Don't worry, I'm alright. How's Merlin?
GWEN If Arthur comes back with the antidote in time, he'll be fine.
MORGANA Then he'll be fine.
[Gwen sighs.]
MORGANA You should be with him. I'll manage. I know what he means to you. Go.
GWEN Thank you.
--
[13:44, INT. KNIG’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR – NIGHT]
[Arthur walks with Uther. Arthur's dressed in his chainmail.]
UTHER
What's the point of having people to taste for you if you're going to get yourself
killed anyway?
ARTHUR
I won't fail, no matter what you think.
UTHER
Arthur, you are my only son and heir. I can't risk losing you for the sake of some
serving boy.
ARTHUR
Oh, because his life's worthless?
UTHER
No, because it's worth less than yours.
ARTHUR
I can save him. Let me take some men.
UTHER
No.
ARTHUR
We'll find the antidote and bring it back.
UTHER
No.
ARTHUR
Why not?!
UTHER
Because one day I will be dead and Camelot will need a king. I'm not going to let
you jeopardise the future of this kingdom over some fool's errand.
ARTHUR
It's not a fool's errand. Gaius says that if we can get the antidote...
UTHER
Oh, Gaius says? That's exactly what makes it so.
ARTHUR
Please, Father. He saved my life. I can't stand by and watch him die.
UTHER
Then don't look. This boy won't be the last to die on your behalf. You're going to
be King. It's something you'll have to get used to.
ARTHUR
I can't accept that.
UTHER
You're not going.
ARTHUR
You can't stop me.
UTHER
Damn it, Arthur, that's an end to it! You're not leaving this castle tonight.
--
[Arthur storms in, tosses his sword onto the table, and leans over the fireplace.
Morgana enters.]
MORGANA
Say what you like about the food, but you can't beat our feast for entertainment.
ARTHUR
Morgana, I'm sorry, I should have made sure you were alright.
MORGANA
Disappointed actually. I was looking forward to clumping a couple around the head
with a ladle.
ARTHUR
I'm sure the guards could have handled Bayard and his men.
MORGANA
Yeah, but why let the boys have all the fun?
ARTHUR
Morgana, you shouldn't get involved. It's dangerous.
MORGANA
Spare me the lecture, I've already had it from Uther.
ARTHUR
If it's any consolation, you weren't the only one.
MORGANA
Not that I listen to him. Sometimes you've got to do what you think is right, and
damn the consequences.
ARTHUR
You think I should go?
MORGANA
It doesn't matter what I think.
ARTHUR
If I don't make it back, who will be the next king of Camelot? There's more than
just my life at stake.
MORGANA
And what kind of king would Camelot want? One that would risk his life to save that
of a lowly servant?
[Morgana draws Arthur's sword.]
MORGANA
Or one who does what his father tells him to?
[Morgana presents Arthur with the sword.]
--
[15:59, EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE – NIGHT]
[Arthur rides across the drawbridge.]
GUARD
Halt!
[Arthur rides past the guards out of Camelot. Nimueh watches from her stone basin.]
--
GWEN
He's getting hotter.
MERLIN (muttering)
Him. Liffrea, wuldres wealdend, woroldare forgeaf.
GWEN
What language is that?
GAIUS
None. The fever's taken hold. None of those words are his own. His pulse is weaker.
[Gaius finds a large circular rash on Merlin's arm.]
GWEN
What is it?
GAIUS
That can't be right. The rash is not supposed to appear until the final stage.
GWEN
What does that mean?
[Gaius checks his book with a magnifying glass.]
GAIUS
It says here that "once a rash appears, death will follow within two days."
GWEN
You said he had four days.
GAIUS
Something's increased the flower's potency. It warns that "the effect of the
Mortaeus will be more rapid if an enchantment is used during the flower's
preparation."
GWEN
An enchantment? But Bayard's no sorcerer.
GAIUS
No, he isn't.
GWEN
Then who did this?
GAIUS
It can't have been. She wouldn't dare come here. Unless...
GWEN
Unless what?
GAIUS
What happened to that girl?
GWEN
Which girl?
GAIUS
Just before Merlin burst into the hall one of Bayard's serving girls took him
outside.
GWEN
She had dark hair. Very beautiful.
GAIUS
Find her. Quickly.
MERLIN (muttering)
Arthur... swa...
--
[Gwen checks the cells for Cara/Nimueh.]
--
[Uther paces.]
UTHER
I expressly ordered Arthur not to go!
MORGANA
I'd say it worked like a charm, too.
UTHER
Not another word!
MORGANA
My lips are sealed.
UTHER
I should've put him under lock and key.
MORGANA
You can't chain him up every time he disagrees with you.
UTHER
Just you watch me! I will not be disobeyed! Especially by my own son!
MORGANA
No. Of course you won't.
[Morgana sits down at her desk to write. Uther approaches her.]
UTHER
You knew about this, didn't you? Morgana...don't lie to me.
MORGANA
Arthur's old enough to make decisions for himself.
UTHER
He's just a boy.
MORGANA
Have you seen your son recently? You have to let him make his own mind up.
UTHER
Even if it means letting him go to his death?
--
[18:47, Arthur rides through the mountains. Nimueh watches him from her stone
basin. She pulls up her hood and leaves her cave.]
--
[19:10, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin stirs restlessly. Gaius inspects Merlin's rash. Gwen enters.]
GAIUS
Let me guess, she wasn't there.
GWEN
No one has seen her since the banquet. Who is she?
GAIUS
Not who she claims to be.
GWEN
But you know, don't you?
GAIUS
Cara. Though, that's not her name. Not her real name, anyway.
GWEN
Then who is she?
GAIUS
A powerful sorceress.
GWEN
Well, we should tell Uther. Maybe he could send riders out after her.
GAIUS
No, she'll be long gone. It's impossible to know where, though. Oh, no.
GWEN
What?
GAIUS
She knows the only place an antidote can be found is the Forest of Balor. Arthur
could be walking into a trap.
MERLIN
Arthur. Arthur.
--
[19:59, Arthur leads his horse through the forest. The Cockatrice hides under
fallen tree.]
--
MERLIN
*muttering*
--
[20:19, Arthur leads his horse through the forest. He hears Nimueh's fake crying
and approaches her as she sits on a fallen log with fake bruises.]
ARTHUR
Hello? Are you alright?
[The Cockatrice roars behind him.]
ARTHUR (to Nimueh)

Stay back.
[Nimueh smiles as Arthur faces the beast. The Cockatrice lunges, Arthur rolls under
it as it jumps, then throws his sword, killing it. Nimueh grimaces. Arthur looks at
her and she gets up and backs away in pretend fear.]
ARTHUR
It's alright. I'm not going to hurt you. Who did that to you?
[Arthur points to her bruises.]
NIMUEH
My master. I ran away from him, but then I got lost. Please don't leave me.
ARTHUR
I won't. I'm not going to.
NIMUEH
You can take me away from here?
ARTHUR
Not yet. There's something I have to do first.
[Arthur looks at the cave mouth.]
NIMUEH
Why have you come to the caves?
ARTHUR
I'm looking for something. It can only be found here.
NIMUEH
What is it? I know this place; I could help you.
ARTHUR
It's a type of flower that only grows inside the cave. It's very rare.
NIMUEH
The Mortaeus flower? I know where they are. I'll show you.
[Arthur and Nimueh enter the cave with torches.]

--
MERLIN
Arthur, it...it's a trap. It's a trap.
GWEN
His fever's getting worse, isn't it?
GAIUS
The poison's setting in.
MERLIN
eft gewunigen wilgesiþas, þonne wig cume.
GAIUS
Shh. Could you fetch me some more Wolfbane?
GWEN
Yes, of course.
GAIUS
Merlin, you must fight it.
--
[24:24, Nimueh and Arthur turn a corner in the caves.]
NIMUEH
There they are.
[The flowers are on the across a large gap with a narrow ledge and long drop.
Arthur looks down.]
ARTHUR
Keep back from the edge. Don't worry. We'll be out of here soon.
NIMUEH
Eorthe, lyft, fyr, waeter, hiersumie me.
[The cave begins to shake.]
NIMUEH
Eorthe ac stanas hiersumie me. Ic can stanas tobrytan...
ARTHUR
What are you doing?!
NIMUEH
...hiersumie me.
[Arthur drops his torch as the rock falls out beneath him. he jumps for the
opposite ledge and catches it with his hand.]
NIMUEH
I expected so much more.
ARTHUR
Who are you?!
NIMUEH
The last face you'll ever see.
[A giant spider shows up.]
NIMUEH
It seems we have a visitor.
[Arthur edges away from the spider, draws his sword and kills the spider while
dangling from the ledge.]
NIMUEH
Very good. But he won't be the last. I'll let his friends finish you off, Arthur
Pendragon. It's not your destiny to die at my hand.
[Nimieh leaves with the torch, leaving Arthur dangling from the ledge in the dark.]
ARTHUR
Who are you?!
--
MERLIN
Arthur. It's too dark. Too dark. Fromum feohgiftum on fæder bearme. Fromum
feohgiftum.
[Gaius sees something glowing.]
GAIUS
Merlin.
[Gaius folds down the blanket. Merlin holds a glowing ball of light in his hand.]
GAIUS
What are you doing?
--
[26:56, Arthur sees the light in the cave.]
ARTHUR
Come on, then! What are you waiting for?! Finish me off!
[The light floats above Arthur and he pulls himself onto the ledge. the light moves
higher, but Arthur spots the Mortaeus flower on the wall.]
MERLIN
Leave them, Arthur.
[Spiders screech and crawl toward Arthur.]
MERLIN
Go. Save yourself. Follow the light.
[Arthur climbs to the flower and grabs it and puts it in a pouch on his belt.
spiders keep coming. Arthur races to the top.]
MERLIN
Faster. Go faster. Follow the light! Move. Climb.
[Arthur makes it to the top and the light disappears from Merlin's hand.]
--
[30:01, guards spot Uther from the battlements.]
GREGORY
Inform the King! Arthur has returned to Camelot!
[Arthur rides up to the drawbridge gate. guards block his way.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing? Let me pass.
GREGORY
I'm sorry, Sire. You're under arrest, by order of the King.
--
[30:18, Uther visits Arthur's cell in the dungeons.]
UTHER
You disobeyed me.
ARTHUR
Of course I did, a man's life is at stake. Do not let Merlin die because of
something I did.
UTHER
Why do you care so much? The boy is just a servant.
ARTHUR
He knew the danger he was putting himself in, and he knew what would happen if he
drank from that goblet, but he did it anyway. He saved my life. There's more. There
was a woman at the mountain. She knew I was there for the flower. I don't think it
was Bayard who tried to poison me.
UTHER
Of course it was.
[Arthur pulls out the flower.]
ARTHUR
Gaius knows what to do with it.
[Uther takes the flower.]
ARTHUR
Put me in the stocks for a week, a month even, I don't care. Just make sure it gets
to him. I'm begging you.
[Uther crushes the flower.]
ARTHUR
NO!
UTHER
You have to learn there's a right and a wrong way of doing things. I'll see you're
let out in a week. Then you can find yourself another servant.
[Uther drops the flower just outside Arthur's cell door. the guards lock the door
and Arthur tries to get the flower just beyond his reach.]
--
GAIUS He hasn't got much longer. Has Arthur got the flower?
GWEN I don't know. Uther won't allow anyone to see him. Is there nothing we can do
to help?
GAIUS Only the leaf of the Mortaeus flower can save him.
GWEN And we have to find out if Arthur has it. I could sneak into the dungeon.
GAIUS That would be very dangerous.
GWEN I've got to. Merlin will die if I don't.
[Merlin struggles to breathe.]
GAIUS Be careful.
--
[32:09, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS – NIGHT]
[Gwen walks down the Wrought Iron Stairway with a plate of food and approaches a
guard.]
GWEN
Food for the prisoner.
[A guard unlocks the door for her.]
ARTHUR
Set it down over there.
[Gwen puts it down on a small table and takes a step back. Arthur gets up and goes
to the table.]
ARTHUR
Thank you.
[Gwen turns to leave.]
ARTHUR
Wait a minute.
[Arthur puts the plate back down and walks back to his seat on the floor.]
ARTHUR
I couldn't possibly eat this, it's disgusting. The state it's in, I'm not sure it's
fit for anyone.
[Gwen goes back to pick up the plate and smiles when she sees the flower on the
plate. she leaves the cell.]
DUNGEON GUARD
You. Wait!
[Gwen stops and turns around as the guard approaches. He picks over the plate and
grabs some bread.]
DUNGEON GUARD
Waste not, want not, eh? We're not all as precious as our Royal Highness.
[Gwen turns to leave just as another serving girl comes down the steps with a plate
and cup.]
SERVING GIRL
Food for Prince Arthur.
DUNGEON GUARD
Stay where you are!
[Gwen drops the plate and dashes up the stairs.]
--
[Gwen runs in.]
GWEN
How is he?
GAIUS
Have you got the Mortaeus?
GWEN
Here.
GAIUS
His breathing's much worse. We have to hurry.
[Gwen sits down next to Merlin's sickbed as Gaius begins crushing the flower leaf.]
GWEN
Why have you stopped?
GAIUS
The poison was created using magic. We may need magic to make an antidote.
GWEN
But we can't. It's forbidden. Even if we could.
GAIUS
I'll try and make it work without it. Oh, I need some fresh water.
[Gaius hands her a bowl and she runs off. Gaius lifts the bowl he's holding.]
GAIUS
Sythan...
[Gaius stops and looks around, nervous to be practicing magic again.]
GAIUS
Sythan arrest wearth feasceaft funden. Denum æfter dome. Dreamleas gebad he
gewinnes longsum.
[The potion sizzles and foams for a moment. Gwen runs back in and hands him the
bowl of water before rushing back to Merlin's side.]
GAIUS
Thank you.
[Gaius pours the potion into a small cup and goes to Merlin.]
GAIUS
Hold his nose.
[Gwen pinches his nose as Gaius pours the potion into Merlin's mouth.]
GAIUS
Swallow, Merlin. Swallow it.
GWEN
He's stopped breathing. What's happening? Gaius?
[Gaius puts his head to Merlin's chest.]
GAIUS
His heart has stopped.
GWEN
He's dead?
GAIUS
He can't be. He can't be. It was his destiny.
[Gaius stands up.]
GWEN
It's my fault. If I'd have got here sooner. If I'd have been quicker.
[Gwen gets up and cries in Gaius's arms.]
GAIUS
No, no. It was me. I should've looked after him better. It's my fault.
MERLIN
That's disgusting. You should be ashamed of yourself. You're old enough to be her
grandfather.
GAIUS
Merlin. You're alive.
MERLIN
No. I'm the ghost come back to haunt you.
[Gwen grabs Merlin's face and kisses him.]
GWEN
Sorry, I'm just...I thought you were dead.
MERLIN
It's fine. It's more than fine. ...erm...what happened? The last thing I remember
is drinking the wine.
--
[Gaius enters while Uther consults his advisors.]
GAIUS
Sire, forgive the interruption, but may I speak with you?
UTHER
Not now.
GAIUS
But, Your Highness, it is important.
UTHER
Word of Bayard's arrest has got back to Mercia. We're about to be attacked.
GAIUS
I feel that what I have to tell you may have some bearing on your plans. Please, it
will only take a moment.
[Uther steps aside with Gaius.]
GAIUS
I know who tried to poison Arthur.
UTHER
So do I. He's locked in my dungeons.
GAIUS
It wasn't Bayard. The poison was magical. And I'd recognise the hand that made it
anywhere: Nimueh.
UTHER
You must be mistaken.
GAIUS
I wish I was.
UTHER
It can't have been. We'd know her. That witch's face is not easily forgotten.
GAIUS
She's a powerful sorceress. She can enchant the eye that beholds her. We never knew
it was her.
UTHER
Have you any proof?
GAIUS
The poison used against Merlin was made more potent by the use of magic.
UTHER
Are you saying that she conspired with Bayard to kill Arthur?
GAIUS
No, Bayard is innocent. Look at what's happening. This is what she's wanted all
along. A war to bring strife and misery to Camelot.
UTHER
How long before Bayard's armies reach our walls?
SIR CADOR
A day. Maybe less. We should send cavalry out to meet them.
UTHER
Instruct your men not to leave Camelot until I give the word.
SIR CADOR
Sire.
[Knights bow and exit.]
GAIUS
You are making the right decision, Sire. Do you think Arthur should be told the
truth about Nimueh?
--
[40:02, Arthur, Morgana, and Uther watch from the battlements as Bayard and his men
ride away from Camelot.]
MORGANA
Okay. Let the bragging begin. How'd you manage it?
ARTHUR
I'm not sure. All I do know is I had help. Someone knew I was in trouble and sent a
light to guide the way.
MORGANA
Who?
ARTHUR
I don't know. But whoever it was, I'm only here because of them.
MORGANA
I'm glad you're back.
[Morgana leaves.]
UTHER
Arthur? The woman you met in the forest, what did she tell you?
ARTHUR
Not much. She was too busy trying to get me killed. It was strange, though.
UTHER
In what way?
ARTHUR
I was at her mercy. She could have finished me off, but she chose not to. She said
it wasn't my destiny to die at her hand.
UTHER
You must've been scared.
ARTHUR
Had its moments.
UTHER
Those who practice magic know only evil. They despise and seek to destroy goodness
wherever they find it. Which is why she wanted you dead. She is evil.
ARTHUR
Sounds as if you know her.
UTHER
I do. To know the heart of one sorcerer is to know them all. You did the right
thing. Even though you were disobeying me. I'm proud of you, Arthur. Never forget
that.
--
[Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
Still alive, then?
MERLIN
Oh. Yeah, just about. I understand I have you to thank for that.
ARTHUR
Yeah, well, it was nothing. A half decent servant is hard to come by. I was only
dropping by to make sure you're alright. I expect you to be back to work tomorrow.
MERLIN
Oh yeah, yeah of course, er, bright and early.
MERLIN
Arthur. Thank you.
ARTHUR
You too. Get some rest.
GAIUS
Arthur may give you a hard time, but at heart he's a man of honour. There aren't
many who'd have risk what he did for a servant.
MERLIN
It all would've been for nothing if you didn't know how to make the antidote.
GAIUS
Eat your dinner.
MERLIN
I still don't understand why she went to all the trouble of framing Bayard. She
could've just kept quiet and killed Arthur.
GAIUS
But destroying Arthur and Camelot wasn't all she was after. She knew you would be
forced to drink that wine. It was you she wanted to kill. Seems someone else knows
you're destined for great things, Merlin.
[Nimueh watches Merlin in her stone basin.]
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:00
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BBC Merlin: 1x05 Lancelot
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:12, Merlin picks mushrooms in the woods. He hears screeching and gets chased by
a griffin. Merlin falls and waits for a deadly blow. Lancelot yells and attacks the
griffin with a sword. The sword breaks.]
LANCELOT
Run! Run!
[Lancelot grabs Merlin and they run and hide behind a fallen tree. Lancelot holds
his wounded side.]
MERLIN
It's gone. You saved my life. I'm Merlin.
LANCELOT
Lancelot.
[They shake hands. Lancelot passes out.]
--
[02:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS]
GAIUS
The wound itself is superficial. The fever will pass. He should be fine in the
morning.
--
[02:45, Uther and Arthur survey a burning village.]
UTHER
What creature could've done this?
ARTHUR
We found no tracks in or out. What the villagers say must be true: it has wings
and...
UTHER
What?
ARTHUR
And it took no livestock, only people. Whatever it is, it has a taste for human
flesh.
UTHER
Post centuries in all the outlying villages. Put the lookouts on full alert. If
this thing should make for Camelot, we must be ready.
--
LANCELOT
Ever since I was a child I've dreamed of coming here. It's my life's ambition to
join the knights of Camelot. I know what you're thinking, I...I expect too much.
After all, who am I? They have their pick of the best and bravest in the land.
MERLIN
Lancelot.
LANCELOT
Yes?
MERLIN
They are going to love you.
LANCELOT
They are?
MERLIN
I've seen you in action. You could shame the great Arthur himself.
LANCELOT
I hardly think so.
MERLIN
In fact, you know what I'm going to do? I'm going to talk to him right now.
LANCELOT
You know Arthur?
MERLIN
Oh yes.
--
[03:54, EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS – DAY]
[A nobleman swings a couple of swords around.]
ARTHUR
Right, you jumped up dung beetle, this is it. The final test. Pass this and you're
a knight of Camelot. Fail, and you're no one. You face the most feared of all foes,
the ultimate killing machine. You face me. You're challenge to last one minute free
combat. Grummond, Second son of Wessex.
[Arthur draws his sword and nods to servant with an hourglass.]
ARTHUR
Your time starts now.
[Grummund swings the swords around while Arthur watches. Grummond goes for the
attack and Arthur takes him down in two swift blows. The crowd applauds. Arthur
removes Grummond's flag.]
ARTHUR
Take him away.
--
ARTHUR
Grummund's the third to fail this month. How am I meant to defend Camelot with
rubbish like that?
MERLIN
Well, I think I might be able to help.
ARTHUR
You, Merlin? You haven't the faintest idea what it takes to become a knight.
Courage, fortitude, discipline.
MERLIN
No, no, no, of course I don't, but I do know someone who does.
ARTHUR
Yeah?
MERLIN
He saved my life.
ARTHUR
That's blowing it for starters.
MERLIN
No, no, no. He's really good. Honestly.
ARTHUR
That's great, Merlin. I'm sure he's terrific, but you forget the First Code of
Camelot.
MERLIN
The what?
ARTHUR
The First Code. Only those of noble blood can serve as knights. So, unless your
friend is a nobleman
MERLIN
Oh, er, he--he is a nobleman.
ARTHUR
Is he?
MERLIN
Absolutely.
ARTHUR
Very well. Bring him to the training ground tomorrow. And make sure he brings his
seal of nobility.
MERLIN
Thanks, Arthur. You won't regret it.
--
[05:39, Physician's Chambers. Merlin enters.]
LANCELOT
Well? Did you speak to him?
MERLIN
Yeah, I spoke to him.
LANCELOT
And?
MERLIN
And...
[Merlin feigns disappointment.]
LANCELOT
No.
[Lancelot shakes his head, disappointed.]
MERLIN
He said he would like to meet you.
LANCELOT
Yes! Thank you. Thank you!
MERLIN
Hey, really, it was no problem, really. It's nothing. *ahem* You're not a nobleman,
by any chance, are you?
LANCELOT
A nobleman? No.
[Lancelot laughs.]
LANCELOT
Good lord, no. Why do you ask?
MERLIN
It's just that there's this...
GAIUS
The First Code of Camelot states that only those of noble blood can serve as a
knight. Uther created the knights to protect this kingdom from those who wished to
destroy it. He knew he would have to trust each of his knights with his life. So he
chose them from the families that had sworn allegiance to him.
MERLIN
The nobility.
GAIUS
And thus the First Code of Camelot was born, and ever since that day, only the sons
of noble families have served as knights.
MERLIN
But that is not fair.
GAIUS
Fair or unfair, that's the way it is. I'm sorry, Lancelot. Truly, I am.
--
MERLIN
Why do you want to be a knight so much?
LANCELOT
When I was a boy, my village was attacked by raiders from the northern plains. They
were slaughtered where they stood, my father, my mother. Everyone. I alone escaped.
I vowed that day that never again would I be helpless in the face of tyranny. I
made sword craft my life. Every waking hour since that day, I devoted to the art of
combat, and when I was ready, I set forth for Camelot. And now, it seems, my
journey ends. Everything I fought for, wasted.
MERLIN
I give you my word, whatever it takes, I will make this right.
--
[07:49, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF RECORDS]
[Merlin searches for a book. Geoffrey of Monmouth watches him. Merlin takes a
book.]
MERLIN
Homework.
[Merlin opens book to a page of Northumbrian nobility and pulls out a piece of
parchment.]
MERLIN
Ic us bisen hræd tán hwanon.
[Merlin copies the page. Geoffrey wanders over.]
GEOFFREY
Ahem.
[Merlin hands Geoffrey the book.]
MERLIN
It's a...real page turner.
[Geoffrey looks at the title.]
--
[Merlin enters and holds up the parchment.]
LANCELOT
What's that?
MERLIN
This is your seal of nobility.
LANCELOT
I don't understand.
MERLIN
Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Lancelot, fifth son of Lord Eldred of Northumbria.
LANCELOT
No, Merlin. No.
MERLIN
Oh, right. So you don't want to be a knight, then.
LANCELOT
Of course I do!
MERLIN
Well...the rules don't allow it. Damn the rules! The rules are wrong!
LANCELOT
But it's a lie. It's against everything the knights stand for.
MERLIN
You have as much right to be a knight as any man. I know it.
LANCELOT
But the rules, Merlin.
MERLIN
We're not breaking the rules. We're bending them, that's all. You get your foot in
the door. But after that you will be judged on your merit alone. And if you succeed
- if they make you a knight - it'll be because you earned it, noble or not. I can't
change the way things are done around here, but you can...if you let me help you.
--
[09:56, INT. GWEN’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Gwen takes Lancelot's measurements.]
LANCELOT
Thi...*ahem* This is very kind of you, er...
GWEN
Gwen.
LANCELOT
Gwen.
GWEN
Short for Guinevere.
LANCELOT
Ah. Then thank you, Guinevere.
GWEN
Don't thank me. Thank Merlin. Merlin would do anything for anyone, wouldn't you,
Merlin? Sorry, can you raise your arms? Thank you. Sorry. I think it's great that
Merlin's got you this chance. We need men like you.
LANCELOT
You do?
GWEN
Well, not me personally, but you know...Camelot. Camelot needs knights. Not just
Arthur and his kind, but ordinary people like you and me.
LANCELOT
Well, I'm not a knight yet, My Lady.
GWEN
And I'm not a lady.
[Gwen giggles.]
LANCELOT
Sorry, my...
GWEN
Okay, we're done. Erm...I should have these ready in no time. It's nice to meet you
Lancelot.
[Gwen reaches out to shake hands. Lancelot takes her hand and kisses it. Merlin and
Lancelot leave.]
--
[11:12, INT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Merlin and Lancelot walk down the Courtyard Corridor.]
LANCELOT
She seems lovely. Guinevere.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah. Yeah, she is. And the best seamstress in Camelot, I promise.
LANCELOT
Are you two...you know.
[Merlin laughs.]
MERLIN
No, no. Just friends.
[Merlin gives Lancelot a sideways look.]
--
[Arthur trains recruits. Merlin and Gwen fix Lancelot's knight costume.]
ARTHUR
One. Two. Three. Four. One. Two. Three. Four.
MERLIN
Well...you certainly look the part.
LANCELOT
Doesn't he just?
MERLIN
I don't feel it.
ARTHUR
Okay, that'll do for today. Well done.
MERLIN
Here's your chance. Go for it.
[Arthur puts a sword in the sword rack. Lancelot approaches him.]

ARTHUR
Yes?
LANCELOT
Lancelot, 5th son of Lord Eldred of Northumbria.
ARTHUR
Lance...a lot? My servant mentioned you. Got your seal?
[Lancelot bows as he presents the fake seal to Arthur.]
LANCELOT
Sire.
[Arthur smacks him. Lancelot falls down.]
ARTHUR
Sluggish reactions. In a battle field you'd be dead by now. Come back when you're
ready.
[Arthur walks off. Lancelot gets up and places his hand on his sword.]
LANCELOT
I'm ready now, Sire.
[Arthur turns back around.]
ARTHUR
You are, are you? Fine. You can start by cleaning out the stables.
[Onlookers laugh. Lancelot looks uncertainly at Merlin who gives him two thumbs
up.]
--
[12:44, INY. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS]
GAIUS
I'm sorry about Lancelot. I see you were upset.
MERLIN
Oh. You know...that's life. You win some, you lose some.
GAIUS
You're taking it very well, I have to say. Very mature.
MERLIN
Thank you, Gaius.
[Lancelot enters covered in...dirt.]
MERLIN
How'd it go?
LANCELOT
Ugh.
[Lancelot goes to Merlin's Chamber. Gaius gives Merlin a look.]

MERLIN
He found work at the stables.
GAIUS
I see. And the truth before I lose my temper?
MERLIN
He's er...trying out for the knights.
GAIUS
The First Code of Camelot has never been broken for any man. What've you done,
Merlin?
MERLIN
Okay, I bent the rules a little, but the rules are wrong. They're unfair.
GAIUS
You bent the rules? Using magic?
MERLIN
It was nothing, honestly. It was more of a trick than actual magic.
GAIUS
Your magic is not a toy, Merlin. It's not for you to use or abuse as you see fit.
MERLIN
I know. I know.
GAIUS
Then why'd you do it?
MERLIN
I owe Lancelot my life. I am paying for that debt the only way I can by giving him
the opportunity he deserves. If you want to punish me for it, go ahead.
--
[Arthur and a few guards approach Lancelot. Lancelot continues to sharpen swords.
Arthur takes a nearby broom and tosses it at Lancelot. Lancelot looks up suddenly
and catches it.]
ARTHUR
Not bad.
[Lancelot stands and bows to Arthur.]
LANCELOT
Would you like me to sweep the guardhouse again, Sire?
ARTHUR
It certainly needs sweeping. But first,
[Arthur picks up a broom and removes the bristles.]
ARTHUR
I'd like you to kill me.
LANCELOT
Sire?
ARTHUR
Come on. Don't pretend you don't want to.
[Lancelot removes the bristles on his broom.]
ARTHUR
Hell, if I were you, I'd want to. Come on.
[A fight ensure.]
ARTHUR
Come on, Lancelot, you're not beating a carpet.
[They continue fighting. Arthur hits Lancelot in the gut.]
ARTHUR
Congratulations, Lancelot.
[Arthur tosses the stick to Lancelot.]
ARTHUR
You just made basic training.
[Warning bells toll. Arthur runs toward the screams.]
--
[15:41, Merlin helps an injured woman to sit near Gaius in the Square.]
MERLIN
You're safe now, I promise.
[Gaius tends another woman.]
MERLIN
How is she?
GAIUS
Okay.
[Lancelot runs into the Square.]
LANCELOT
What happened to these people?
GAIUS
Their village was attacked by a winged monster.
[Merlin and Lancelot exchange a look.]
--
[16:10, INT. KING’S PALACE, UPPER CORRIDOR]
[Uther and Arthur look down at the Square.]
ARTHUR
I'd hunt this thing down if I could, but I cannot track a creature through the air.
UTHER
You don't have to track it. First Greenswood, then Willowdale. The creature's
heading south, towards the mouth of the valley.
ARTHUR
To Camelot.
UTHER
You must prepare your knights, Arthur.
ARTHUR
Have faith, Father. We'll be ready.
--
[Gaius flips through a book of monsters.]
GAIUS
The wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. The wings of an eagle and the body of
a lion.
--
[16:50, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQAURE – DAY]
[Arthur speaks to the knights of Camelot.]
ARTHUR
The beast is heading for Camelot. It's fast and agile, but big enough to hit and
hit hard. Starting today your training routines will concentrate on an attack
strategy. We don't have much time. Dismissed.
[Lancelot approaches Arthur and bows.]
ARTHUR
Yes, Lancelot?
LANCELOT
Is there anything I can do, Sire? It's just...I know that in the event of battle,
only a knight may serve.
ARTHUR
That's correct, Lancelot. And you are not yet a knight. Which is why I'm bringing
your test forward. You'll face me in the morning.
--
[Arthur and Lancelot are dressed in full armour.]
ARTHUR
Well, here we are. Your final challenge. Succeed and you join the elite. Fail and
your journey ends here. Lancelot, fifth son of Lord Eldred of Northumbria...
[Arthur nods to the timekeeper.]
ARTHUR
Your time starts now.
[Arthur and Lancelot put on their helmets. They fight. Lancelot swings and misses
Arthur. Gwen grabs Merlin's shirt in her anxiety.]
GWEN
Oh, sorry.
[Arthur punches Lancelot. Lancelot falls back, his helmet askew. Arthur puts his
sword in the ground, removes his helmet and goes to remove Lancelot's flag.]
ARTHUR
Shame.
[Lancelot gets up, knocks Arthur off his feet and puts him at sword point.]
LANCELOT
Do you submit, Sire?
[Guards restrain Lancelot. Arthur gets up, apparently angry, and grabs his sword.]
ARTHUR
On your knees!
[Guards force Lancelot to his knees. Arthur puts the sword to Lancelot's chest.]
--
[19:33, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM – NIGHT]
[Lancelot kneels, a sword to his chest.]
UTHER
Arise, Sir Lancelot, Knight of Camelot.
[Applause.]
MORGANA
Who is this man? He seems to have come out of nowhere.
GWEN
I know. It's been a bit of a surprise to all of us.
UTHER
You do us a great honour, Sir Lancelot. The knighthood is the very foundation of
Camelot.
LANCELOT
The honour is all mine, Sire.
UTHER
Your father would be very proud.
LANCELOT
Yes, Sire.
UTHER
I have not seen Lord Eldred for many years. Longer than I'd imagined, it seems.
Last time I saw him, he only had four sons
LANCELOT
Well...here I am.
UTHER
Indeed you are. And I've kept you too long already. Enjoy the celebrations.
LANCELOT
Sire.
[Lancelot bows. Knights approach him and shake his hand. Uther opens Lancelot's
seal and addresses a lady of the court.]
UTHER
Take this seal to Geoffrey of Monmouth, the Court Genealogist.
[The knights walk out, Arthur's arm around Lancelot's shoulders.]
UTHER
I want his opinion by morning.
--
[20:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Lancelot sit on table with their drinks. Merlin stands with Gaius.]
MERLIN
Look at him, Gaius. Does not Lancelot deserve this moment?
GAIUS
I never said he didn't. But destiny and desserts are not the same thing. You played
God, Merlin. You set him on a path of your choosing. Tonight you brought him
triumph, but who knows what the future may hold.
MERLIN
Yeah, I don't know what it said on your invitation, but on mine it said
celebration.
[Gaius chuckles.]
GAIUS
Point taken. Don't come back too late.
MERLIN
All right.
--
[Geoffrey of Monmouth looks over court records. Geoffrey finds the page of Lord
Eldred of Northumbria and looks displeased.]
--
[21:24, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES - NIGHT]
[Arthur watches Gwen and Morgana while he and Lancelot sit on a table, drinks in
their hands.]
ARTHUR
Here's trouble. Tell me, do you think her...beautiful?
[Arthur watches Morgana. Lancelot's eyes follow Gwen as she goes to stand by
Merlin.]
LANCELOT
Yes, Sire. I do.
ARTHUR
Yeah. I suppose she is.
[Morgana notices Arthur's gaze.]

MERLIN
You know what? I think our Sir Lancelot might have eyes for you, Gwen.
GWEN
Don't be silly.
MERLIN
What? So what if he did? Would that really be so bad?
[Gwen sighs.]
GWEN
He's not really my type.
MERLIN
Oh, well, there's a surprise. Sometimes, Guinevere, I wonder if you'd know what
your type was if he was standing right next to you.
[Gwen looks wistfully at Merlin.]
GWEN
You're probably right.
[Merlin grabs another drink from a passing servant.]
MERLIN
So, come on. Just for the sake of argument. If you had to, Arthur or Lancelot.
GWEN
But I don't have to and I never will.
MERLIN
Oh, you are no fun, Gwen.
[Arthur pounds on the table.]
ARTHUR
Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast to our new recruit, our new knight
of Camelot, Sir Lancelot.
[The crowd applauds. Lancelot and Arthur toast.]
--
[Merlin and Lancelot come out of Merlin's Chamber with hangovers.]
LANCELOT
Argh. Two yards of ale? Two miles, more like it.
GAIUS
Good morning, gentlemen.
[Gaius holds out two fizzing drinks.]
GAIUS
Don't look at it, don't smell it, just down it in one.
LANCELOT
Argh.
GAIUS
Better? Good. Can't have you nodding off first day on the job, Lancelot.
MERLIN
That's Sir Lancelot, if you don't mind.
[They laugh. Guards enter.]
MERLIN
What are you doing?
GUARD
King's orders.
[The guards grab Lancelot and escort him out.]
MERLIN
Stop!
--
[Lancelot on his knees before the court.]
UTHER
Tell him what you told me.
GEOFFREY
These credentials are faked. The seal itself is faultless, forgery of the highest
possible standard, but a forgery it must be. There is no record of the fifth son of
Lord Eldred of Northumbria. Therefore he...
UTHER
Lied. Do you deny it?
LANCELOT
No, Sire.
UTHER
You've broken the First Code of Camelot. You've brought shame upon yourself and
upon us. You are not worthy of the knighthood bestowed upon you. You never were.
And you never will be. Get him out of my sight.
[Guards escort Lancelot out.]
ARTHUR
Sire.
UTHER
Do you contest my judgment?
ARTHUR
His deception was inexcusable. But he meant no harm, Sire, I'm sure of it. He only
wished to serve.
UTHER
The First Code is a sacred bond of trust. It is what binds the knights together.
How can you trust a man who's lied to you?
--
[24:50, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS]
[Merlin visits Lancelot’s cell.]
MERLIN
I don't know what to say to you, Lancelot.
LANCELOT
You're not to blame.
MERLIN
Yes, I am. I pushed you. I made you lie.
LANCELOT
The choice was mine. My punishment is mine to bear, and mine to bear alone.
MERLIN
I wish there was something I could do.
LANCELOT
There is. You can stop blaming yourself.
--
GAIUS
Merlin?
MERLIN
Whatever you do, don't say, "I told you so."
GAIUS
I have no wish to gloat, Merlin. What's done is done. Here. Come and take a look at
this. I realised my mistake. I've been looking for the creature in the wrong place,
in the records of all known living things in the kingdom. And then I thought, but
what about creatures only recorded in legend? In myth? Then I discovered this.
MERLIN
That is it. That's the monster.
[Warning bells sound. Merlin and Gaius go to the window. People run wildly around
the Square, screaming as the griffin swoops down overhead.]
ARTHUR
On me! On me!
[Knights surround Arthur in a defence pattern.]
ARTHUR
Defend!
[The knights crouch down. The griffin attacks. Lancelot rushes to the bars of his
cell.]
LANCELOT
What's happening?!
[The knights get up and reform attack pattern. The griffin lands in the Square.]
ARTHUR
Charge! On me!
[Arthur strikes the griffin in the chest with a spear. The spear breaks. Arthur
freaks and falls backwards. A guard tosses him a torch. Arthrur waves the torch at
the griffin and it takes off making really annoying hissing sounds.]
--
[Arthur and Uther enter with their entourage.]
UTHER
You said your knights were the best in the land. You proved that today.
ARTHUR
All I know is it's still out there.
UTHER
Let's not wait for it. The kingdom has been menaced by this creature for too long.
We finish this now.
GAIUS
Sire, if I may.
UTHER
Gaius?
GAIUS
I've been researching this creature, Sire. I believe it to be a griffin.
UTHER
A griffin? What's in a name?
GAIUS
The griffin is a creature of magic.
UTHER
I don't have time for this, physician.
GAIUS
It is born of magic, Sire, and it can only be killed by magic.
UTHER
You are mistaken. It's a creature of flesh and blood like any other. Arthur proved
that today.
ARTHUR
I'm not so sure, Father. I think there may be some truth in what he says.
UTHER
What truth?
ARTHUR
The griffin was unharmed, Sire. Our weapons seemed useless against it.
UTHER
Useless? I think not. No, it's tasted our steel once, the next time will be its
last. When will your knights be ready to ride again?
ARTHUR
An hour. Maybe two.
UTHER
Good. We finish this tonight.
--
[Merlin and Gaius enter.]
MERLIN
Is it true? The griffin can only be killed by magic?
GAIUS
Yes, Merlin. I'm certain of it. If Arthur rides out against it, he'll die.
MERLIN
Then he must be stopped. Uther must see reason.
GAIUS
Where magic is concerned, our King is blind to reason. And yet...magic is our only
hope.
MERLIN
You're not suggesting...
GAIUS
It is your destiny, Merlin. The true purpose of your magic.
MERLIN
You saw it, Gaius. I can't go up against that thing.
GAIUS
But if you do not, then Arthur will surely perish.
MERLIN
No...this is madness. I don't have magic that powerful. There must be another way.
GAIUS
This is the only way.
MERLIN
Do you even care what happens to me? Oh, just do this, Merlin. Do that, Merlin. Go
and kill the griffin, Merlin. I'll just sit here and warm my feet by the fire.
GAIUS
Merlin! Merlin, you are the only thing I care about in all this world. I would give
my life for you without a thought. But for what? I cannot save Arthur. It is not my
destiny. You know.
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
GAIUS
I don't know what else I can say.
MERLIN
I'll say it for you. We have two hours to find a way to kill that thing.
--
[31:39, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS]
[Arthur enters Lancelot's cell.]
ARTHUR
I should've known. How could I have been so stupid?! You don't sound like a knight,
you don't even look like a knight!
LANCELOT
I'm sorry.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry, too. Because, Lancelot, you fight like a knight. And I need...Camelot
needs...
LANCELOT
The creature?
ARTHUR
We could not kill it. I've never faced its like.
LANCELOT
I faced it myself, Sire. Some days past. I struck if full square. I wondered how it
endured.
ARTHUR
There are those that believe this creature, this...griffin, is a creature of magic,
that only magic can destroy it.
LANCELOT
Do you believe this?
ARTHUR
It doesn't matter what I believe. The use of magic is not permitted. The knights
must prevail with steel and sinew alone.
LANCELOT
Sire.
ARTHUR
There's a horse waiting outside
LANCELOT
Thank you. Thank you, Sire.
ARTHUR
Lancelot, take it and never return to this place.
LANCELOT
No. No, please, I...It's not my freedom I seek. I only wish to serve with honour.
ARTHUR
I know.
LANCELOT
Then let me ride with you, Sire.
ARTHUR
I cannot. My father knows nothing of this. I release you myself, but I can do no
more. Now go before I change my mind.
[Arthur walks towards the wall so Lancelot can exit the cell behind him.]
--
[Gaius and Merlin flipping through a book.]
GAIUS
There. You must do this for Arthur.
MERLIN
I've never cast a spell of enchantment this powerful.
GAIUS
Nothing less will kill it. Here.
[Gaius hands Merlin a rusty dagger.]
GAIUS
Try. You have it within you. I know you do.
MERLIN
Bregdan anweald gafeluec.
[Nothing happens. Merlin and Gaius look at each other.]
GAIUS
Don't worry, Merlin, we have plenty of time.
--
[34:07, INT. GWEN’S HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Lancelot knocks on the door and enters.]
LANCELOT
I'm sorry to disturb you, My Lady.
GWEN
Lancelot, what are you doing here?
LANCELOT
I have no time to explain. I need weapons armour and the best you've got.
GWEN
But what's this all about?
LANCELOT
Arthur stands in mortal peril. I must do what I can to protect him. It's my duty.
Knight or not.
GWEN
You really believe that, don't you?
LANCELOT
Yes, My Lady.
GWEN
Lancelot, I don't believe I've ever met your like before.
LANCELOT
Guinevere, if I should not return...
GWEN
Don't go, Lancelot. Please.
LANCELOT
But go I must.
[Gwen nods.]
--
[34:47, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARMOURY]
[Arthur marches down line of armoured knights.]
ARTHUR
It's time.
[The knights follow him out and ride out of Camelot.]
--
[Merlin continues to try the spell.]
GAIUS
Don't worry, Merlin. I know you're trying.
MERLIN
And I'm failing. And if Arthur dies because I'm not good enough...
GAIUS
Merlin!
[Gwen runs in.]
GWEN
Merlin! Lancelot's riding out to kill the griffin!
MERLIN
He's what?
[Gwen shrugs her helplessness. Merlin runs out.]
GAIUS
Merlin?
--
[35:32, EXT. LOWER TOWN – NIGHT]
[Merlin runs to Lancelot as Lancelot saddles a horse.]
MERLIN
LANCELOT
No, you're not.
MERLIN
Just try and stop me.
LANCELOT
Merlin, you're not a soldier.
MERLIN
You said it yourself, Lancelot, Arthur needs all the help he can get. Now let's go.
--
[35:50, Mounted knights approach the griffin in the woods. Arthur draws his sword.]
ARTHUR
For Camelot!
[The knights draw their swords.]
KNIGHTS
For Camelot!
[Merlin and Lancelot ride along. They can hear dying men, sword clanging, and the
screech/hissing griffin. They reach the fallen knights and dismount.]
MERLIN
Arthur.
[Merlin feels for Arthur's pulse.]
LANCELOT
Well?
MERLIN
He's alive.
[The griffin hisses. Lancelot rides into attack position with a lance and shuts his
visor.]
MERLIN
Okay, Merlin, it's now or never.
[Lancelot rears his horse.]
MERLIN
[Nothing happens. Lancelot charges.]
MERLIN
[Nothing happens. Lancelot passes Merlin.]
MERLIN
Bregdan anweald gafeluec!
[The griffin charges.]
MERLIN
[The lance flames blue, hits the griffin, the griffin dies, and the magic glow
disappears. Merlin celebrates.]
MERLIN
Yes!
[Arthur wakes. Merlin runs off. Lancelot removes his helmet.]
ARTHUR
Lancelot.
LANCELOT
Sire.
ARTHUR
You did it. You killed it, Lancelot!
--
[Merlin bursts in.]
GAIUS
You did it?!
MERLIN
I did it.
[Gaius and Merlin hug.]
GAIUS
Thank God!
--
[39:12, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - NIGHT]
[Arthur enters.]
UTHER
You did it, my son. You did it.
ARTHUR
Not I, Father. It was Lancelot.
[Lancelot enters.]
UTHER
What's he doing here?
ARTHUR
Father, I can explain.
UTHER
You! Wait outside.
[Lancelot exits and the guards close the doors.]
UTHER
You had no right to...!
[The doors block out all sound. Merlin rounds the corner.]
MERLIN
What are they doing?
LANCELOT
Deciding my fate.
--
[Uther and Arthur argue.]
ARTHUR
I confess it, Sire. I released him and I'll take the consequences. But surely
Lancelot's actions change things?!
UTHER
His actions change nothing. He broke the code!
ARTHUR
He laid down his life for me! He served with honour.
UTHER
I see you feel strongly about this, Arthur. Under the circumstances? A pardon,
perhaps.
ARTHUR
No, not good enough, Father. You must restore Lancelot to his rightful place, as a
knight of Camelot.
UTHER
Never. The law is the law. The Code bends for no man.
ARTHUR
Then the code is wrong!
--
[40:37, INT. KING’S PALACE, OUTSIDE THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - NIGHT]
MERLIN
They'll restore your knighthood, of course they will. You killed the griffin.
LANCELOT
But I didn't kill the griffin.
[Lancelot walks slightly away from the guards.]
LANCELOT
You did.
MERLIN
That's ridiculous.
LANCELOT
"Bregdan anweald "...I heard you. I saw you.
[Merlin looks worried.]
LANCELOT
Don't worry, your secret's safe with me. But I cannot take the credit for what I
did not do. There'll be no more lies, no more deceit.
MERLIN
LANCELOT
The only thing I can do.
--
[Lancelot bursts through the doors.]
UTHER
What is this?
[Guards restrain Lancelot.]
LANCELOT
Let me speak!
UTHER
Wait! I'll hear him.
[Guards release Lancelot.]
LANCELOT
Forgive me, Sire. I've come to bid you farewell.
ARTHUR
What is this, Lancelot?
LANCELOT
I lied to you both and now there is conflict between you. I cannot bear that
burden, as you should not bear mine. I must start again, far from here. Then maybe
one day fate shall grant me another chance to prove myself a worthy knight of
Camelot.
ARTHUR
But...Lancelot, you've...already proved that to us.
LANCELOT
But I must prove it to myself. Your Highness.
[Lancelot bows to Uther.]
LANCELOT
Prince Arthur.
[Lancelot bows to Arthur and backs out of the room. Arthur looks crestfallen.]
--
[42:20, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Gwen stares out the window at Lancelot's retreating figure.]
MORGANA Gwen? Guinevere? Lancelot?
GWEN Oh. Yes.
MORGANA Come, Gwen. We've a busy day ahead.

GWEN Yes, My Lady.
--
[42:43, EXT. KING’S PALACE, THE BATTLEMENTS – DAY]
[Merlin and Gaius watch Lancelot ride off.]
MERLIN
Perhaps you were right, Gaius. Perhaps I should have never got involved.
GAIUS
No Merlin, I was wrong. Lancelot needed you and you needed Lancelot. Your destinies
were entwined.
MERLIN
Will he ever return?
GAIUS
That I cannot say.
MERLIN
Till next time then, Sir Lancelot.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:02
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BBC Merlin: 1x06 A Remedy to Cure All Ills
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:11, Edwin pulls a bug out of a box.]
EDWIN
Bebeode þe arisan ealdu.
[Edwin places the bug in some flowers.]
--
[00:50, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS]
[Gwen enters with Edwin's flowers.]
GWEN
Look what's just arrived for you.
MORGANA
Who're they from?
GWEN
I don't know. Maybe Arthur.
MORGANA
How disappointing.
GWEN
Why? Who'd you like them to be from?
MORGANA
I don't know. Tall, dark stranger?
--
[01:14, Edwin stands in the Square at night. Gwen puts out the candles in Morgana's
Chambers.]
GWEN
See you in the morning.
[Morgana falls asleep and the bug climbs out of the flowers and into Morgana's
ear.]
--
[Gaius examines sleeping Morgana.]
GAIUS
Her body seems to have closed down.
UTHER
Why? You don't have an answer do you? Nothing you've tried so far has worked. It's
been nearly two days. And what do you know?
GAIUS
I fear she may have some form of inflammation of the brain.
UTHER
What could cause such a thing?
GAIUS
An infection, possibly. Rest assured, I will do everything in my power to cure her,
Sire.
--
[Gaius descents the curved stairs from Morgana's Chambers. Gwen meets him.]
GWEN
Is she any better?
[Gaius shakes his head. Gwen climbs the stairs as Gaius descends and meets Merlin
on the landing.]
GAIUS
She's all but dead, Merlin.
MERLIN
No, you're going to cure her. You have to.
GAIUS
Don't you start. I've tried everything.
MERLIN
I was wondering...
GAIUS
What?
MERLIN
Maybe I could...
[Merlin waits for a guard to pass by.]
MERLIN
...help.
GAIUS
If you're suggesting magic...have you forgotten what happened with Gwen's father?
This is not a magical illness, it must be cured by conventional means. We keep
trying. See if you can find me some fresh rosemary.
MERLIN
There must be something more I can do.
GAIUS
And yarrow.
--
[03:53, INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE]
[Edwin waits as Arthur comes out to meet him.]
ARTHUR
What's your business here?
EDWIN
My name is Edwin Muirden, and I have a remedy to cure all ills.
ARTHUR
Is that so?
EDWIN
I beg an audience with the King.
ARTHUR
Our court has a physician.
[Arthur begins to walk away.]
EDWIN
I hear the Lady Morgana was gravely ill.
[Arthur stops and turns.]
ARTHUR
That is no concern of yours.
EDWIN
I might be able to help her.
ARTHUR
Our physician has the matter in hand.
[Arthur continues walking.]

EDWIN
I will be at the inn, in case you change your mind.
--
[04:37, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS]
[Arthur sits in a chair while Merlin paces.]
MERLIN
It's gonna be alright. It is. I know it is. She's gonna be absolutely...
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
You're making me anxious.
MERLIN
But I'm not worried.
ARTHUR
Then stop pacing.
[Merlin sits down, but then starts tapping his fingers on the table. Arthur gets up
and starts pacing.]
--
GAIUS
I cannot preserve her life for much longer. She has hours, maybe less.
ARTHUR
We cannot let her die!
UTHER
Arthur, please.
ARTHUR
There's a man, he came to the castle yesterday. He claims he can cure her.
UTHER
That's ridiculous. He doesn't know what's wrong with her.
ARTHUR
He says he has a remedy that can cure all ills.
GAIUS
Impossible.
ARTHUR
Well, for Morgana's sake, surely we should at least hear him out. I mean, what've
we got to lose? Please, Father.
GAIUS
Probably some charlatan hoping for a quick shilling.
ARTHUR
I don't care! If she's about to die, what harm can it do? Give him his shilling! If
there's one chance in a million he can save her, then why not?
UTHER
Send for him.
--
[Uther, Gaius, and Arthur enter. Edwin drops to one knee and hands Uther a roll of
parchment.]
EDWIN
Edwin Muirden, Sire. Physician and loyal servant.
UTHER
Welcome to Camelot.
GAIUS
Have we met before?
EDWIN
I doubt you would forget a face like mine, sir.
UTHER
Do you really believe you have a remedy?
EDWIN
There are not many ills that I have not seen and successfully treated, Sire. So
when I heard of the Lady Morgana's sickness, I felt honour bound to offer my
services.
GAIUS
You say you have a cure for all? An antidote for everything?
EDWIN
Yes. Although it is not quite as simple as that.
UTHER
Gaius is the court physician.
EDWIN
You are indeed a legend, sir. I am delighted to meet you. I am curious to know what
it is that has affected her.
GAIUS
An infection of the brain.
EDWIN
And your treatment?
GAIUS
Yarrow.
EDWIN
Yes, yes.
GAIUS
Rosemary to stimulate cerebral circulation.
EDWIN
Interesting.
ARTHUR
Why? What would you suggest?
EDWIN
No, no, no, that is all fine. All good. If that is... the right diagnosis.
UTHER
What would your diagnosis be?
EDWIN
Well, without examining the patient...
ARTHUR
He should examine her.
EDWIN
I would need my equipment.
UTHER
Of course. You'll have use of one of the guest chambers.
ARTHUR
And consider my manservant at your disposal.
EDWIN
I will start work immediately.
--
[07:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, EDWIN'S GUEST CHAMBER]
[Merlin sets down some of Edwin's equipment.]
EDWIN
Yes...it was all originally designed for alchemy.
MERLIN
Making gold?
EDWIN
You have an interest in science?
MERLIN
Well, science is knowledge.
EDWIN
It has the answers to everything.
MERLIN
Maybe. It can't explain love.
EDWIN
So, you are in love?
MERLIN
No. I mean feelings, emotions.
EDWIN
You seem too bright to be just a servant.
MERLIN
Oh, don't be fooled, I'm not that bright.
EDWIN
Yes, we will need that. Now, we must hurry to the Lady Morgana. before it is too
late.
--
[08:44, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS]
[Merlin and Edwin walk across the Square to Morgana's Chambers where Arthur and
Uther are waiting.]
EDWIN
Put my equipment over there. Sire, I would be grateful if you could have everyone
leave the room. I require peace and privacy.
UTHER
Certainly.
EDWIN
That includes you, Gaius.
GAIUS
But I am eager to learn from your methods.
EDWIN
Now is not the time for giving instruction. I will need all my concentration.
UTHER
Gaius...
[Everyone leaves and Edwin pulls out the bug box. Gwen enters as he's about to take
the bug out of Morgana. He stops and turns on her.]
EDWIN
Why are you spying on me?
GWEN
I wasn't. I'm her maidservant.
EDWIN
Then bring me some water.
GWEN
Someone should be with her.
EDWIN
Do you want to be responsible for her death?
GWEN
No, but...
EDWIN
Then you will bring me some water. Now. Or she may die.
[Gwen leaves.]
EDWIN
Bebeode þe arisan áblinnen.
[Edwin pulls out the bug, dabs Morgana's bloody ear with a small cloth, and puts
the bug back in the box with the others.]
--
[Edwin descends the curved stairs to meet Uther, Arthur, Merlin, and Gaius.]
EDWIN
Great news, Your Majesty. You will be glad to hear it is not an inflammation of the
brain.
UTHER
What is it then?
EDWIN
It is cerebral haemorrhage.
GAIUS
Haemorrhage? I don't think so.
EDWIN
I found this trace of blood in her ear.
[Edwin shows them the bloody cloth.]
UTHER
God in heaven.
EDWIN
The severity depends upon the site and volume of the bleed. If not treated, it can
lead to coma, and eventually death.
UTHER
How could you have missed this?
GAIUS
I didn't see any blood.
EDWIN
Please. Just thank the fates that you did not administer more rosemary to stimulate
the circulation. Can you imagine what that might have done?
[Uther turns to Gaius for explanation.]
GAIUS
It may have increased the bleed.
UTHER
Is there a cure?
EDWIN
See for yourself.
--
UTHER
Morgana, this is truly a miracle.
[Uther kisses her forehead.]
UTHER
I thought... I really thought...
MORGANA
Oh, you won't get rid of me that easily.
GAIUS
What exactly did he give you?
MORGANA
I have no idea. But thank heaven he did.
--
[12:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR]
[Gaius approaches Edwin as he walks down Corridor.]
GAIUS
Edwin. I want to offer you my congratulations.
EDWIN
Thank you.
GAIUS
She was all but dead and you brought her back to life. How exactly did you do that?
EDWIN
I have developed an elixir for the treatment of just such an ailment.
GAIUS
I'd love to know the ingredients.
EDWIN
It is not yet perfected. You must give me more time before I make it public.
GAIUS
The injury to your face?
EDWIN
It happened when I was very young.
GAIUS
Perhaps it was I that treated you for it.
EDWIN
I told you before, we've never met.
GAIUS
Yes, of course. Well, I'll leave you to your work.
--
[Edwin stands before Uther, Arthur, and Morgana.]
UTHER
Name your reward.
EDWIN
I desire nothing more than the good health of my patient, Sire.
UTHER
There must be something I can do for you.
EDWIN
No. I will wait until the Lady Morgana is fully recovered, and then I will be on my
way.
UTHER
Why don't you stay awhile? You could live here in the palace.
EDWIN
No. I - I feel I would be trespassing. And you already have a court physician.
GAIUS
I'm sure Gaius would be glad of your help.
EDWIN
It is a kind offer, but...
UTHER
Think about it. Dine with me later. Give me your decision then.
EDWIN
To dine with Your Majesty would be reward in itself.
[Edwin bows.]
--
[Gaius approaches Geoffrey of Monmouth.]
GEOFFREY
Gaius!
GAIUS
Geoffrey. I'm here to ask a favour of you.
GEOFFREY
Well, anything for an old friend.
GAIUS
I wish to see the court records from the time of the Great Purge.
GEOFFREY
What possible need can you have for those?
GAIUS
I fear that the past may have come back to haunt us.
GEOFFREY
All the more reason to keep the records hidden.
GAIUS
I know that neither of us want to remember that time, but this is a matter of great
urgency.
GEOFFREY
The records are sealed, they cannot be opened. Uther has forbidden it.
GAIUS
Geoffrey, I beg of you.
GEOFFREY
I'm sorry, Gaius. This time you ask too much. Even for me.
--
[14:53, INT. KING’S PALACE, EDWIN'S GUEST CHAMBER]
[Merlin knocks.]
MERLIN
Edwin?
[Merlin enters the room and examines Edwin's equipment. he opens the bug box .
they're still. he closes it reads the inscription on the cover.]
MERLIN
Bebeode þe arisan ealdu.
[Merlin opens the box to see the bugs moving.]
EDWIN
Very good.
[Merlin turns around, knocking over a jar with powder in it. he hands the box to
Edwin.]
EDWIN
Swefn.
[The bugs go still.]
EDWIN
You have magic.
MERLIN
It wasn't me, I didn't do anything.
EDWIN
Then how else did you bring them to life? Only magic can do such a thing. These
little angels are how I cured Lady Morgana. They repaired the damage to her brain.
They saved her life. Magic can be a force for good.
MERLIN
I know.
EDWIN
Then why do you fear it?
MERLIN
Uther has banned it, it's not permitted.
EDWIN
Should I have let Morgana die?
MERLIN
No.
EDWIN
People like us, we have a gift. Do you not think it should be used to make this a
better world?
MERLIN
Perhaps.
[Merlin tries to clear up the powder he spilled.]
EDWIN
Don't waste your time picking that up. Feormian dærst rénian.
[The powder goes back in the jar.]
EDWIN
Why waste a talent like that? And I can teach you.
MERLIN
Rǽdan ásce géatan
[The jar pours the powder into a bowl.]
EDWIN
What do you use this for?
MERLIN
Gaius doesn't like me to.
EDWIN
A gift like yours should be nurtured, practised, enjoyed. You need someone to help
you, to encourage you.
MERLIN
Perhaps.
EDWIN
Imagine what we could achieve, if we shared our knowledge.
MERLIN
I should be getting back.
EDWIN
Of course. But you must promise to keep our secret safe.
MERLIN
Of course.
EDWIN
People like you and I, we must look after each other.
--
[Someone knocks.]
GAIUS
Come in.
[Geoffrey of Monmouth enters with a large book covered in a cloth.]
GEOFFREY
Gaius, you've been a good friend to me over the years, and you've done me many
kindnesses. I can't deny you this one request.
GAIUS
The records?
GEOFFREY
I know you wouldn't ask unless it was important.
GAIUS
You must believe me, there's a great deal at stake.
GEOFFREY
If Uther were to discover this, he would kill us both.
GAIUS
It is for Uther's sake that I make the request. Trust me, please.
[Geoffrey hands Gaius the book.]
GAIUS
Thank you, old friend.
--
[Uther dines with Edwin.]
UTHER
It's unlike Gaius to miss something like this.
EDWIN
We all make mistakes.
UTHER
Gaius is a great physician.
EDWIN
The very best. Which is what I don't understand.
UTHER
What?
EDWIN
It's not for me to speak out of turn.
UTHER
You saved the life of my ward, you may speak as you wish.
EDWIN
He has been prescribing sleeping draughts for Morgana.
UTHER
She suffers from bad dreams.
EDWIN
Yes. But the dreams should have been a warning.
UTHER
You think the two may be connected?
EDWIN
Oh, yes.
UTHER
A symptom of the illness?
EDWIN
I am certain of it, yes. And those potions, they masked the problem, and allowed it
to develop to the point where...
UTHER
She nearly died. If you hadn't come along when you did.
EDWIN
But I did and that is all that matters. Her life was saved... in the nick of time.
UTHER
Will you undertake a review of his work? Just to be on the safe side.
EDWIN
If it would put your mind at rest, Sire.
--
[Gaius continues to read.]
MERLIN
Have you been up all night?
GAIUS
Yes, but it was worth it. Where are you going?
MERLIN
Er, I told Edwin I'd be up at dawn to collect some supplies.
GAIUS
Well, you better get a move on then.
--
[21:56, INT. KING’S PALACE, EDWIN'S GUEST CHAMBERS]
[Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Edwin. Your scar has healed well. I often wondered what happened to that poor young
boy.
EDWIN
I told you we've never met before. I didn't realise who you were until I checked
the records. You used your mother's maiden name. You are Gregor and Jaden's son.
EDWIN
They were friends of yours.
GAIUS
They were sorcerers.
EDWIN
They practised magic. And so did a lot of people back then, Gaius.
GAIUS
Uther will be furious when he finds out who you are.
EDWIN
Fine. Fine. Shall we tell him? Let's go and tell him. Let's tell him. Let's tell
him everything. Ooh, I know... We could also tell him about Merlin.
GAIUS
Merlin?
EDWIN
You didn't know he was a sorcerer? Ah. I wonder what Uther will do. Probably have
him burnt.
GAIUS
You would betray another sorcerer?
EDWIN
You did. When you turned a blind eye and let my parents die at the hands of Uther!
At least Merlin doesn't have a son who will try to rescue him from the flames!
GAIUS
You're here to take revenge.
EDWIN
And I have waited a long time.
GAIUS
You think I will sacrifice the King to save Merlin?
EDWIN
Think about it, Gaius. But if I find out that you have told one other person,
including the boy, I will go straight to Uther.
[Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
I got your provisions.
EDWIN
Oh, thank you, Merlin. Gaius was just reminiscing about old times, weren't you,
Gaius?
GAIUS
Yes.
EDWIN
But now, I must get back to work.
--
MERLIN
I'd better get on with my errands.
GAIUS
Yes, of course, you must.
MERLIN
Do you want me to get you anything?
GAIUS
No, I'm fine. Just do what Edwin asks.
--
[Edwin stands before Uther, Morgana, and Arthur.]
EDWIN
I have been through the court medical records with a fine-tooth comb, Sire.
UTHER
And were your findings satisfactory?
EDWIN
With regret, I would have to say they were not.
UTHER
How so?
EDWIN
Gaius is a great man, thorough, and dedicated.
UTHER
But?
[Edwin sighs.]
EDWIN
His methods are outdated. He has failed to keep up with the latest developments.
This has led to a number of errors.
UTHER
Gaius has served me well for 25 years.
EDWIN
And one cannot blame him for the infirmity those years have brought. Age can be a
terrible curse.
UTHER
Perhaps it is time to lighten his burdens. Have you given any more thought to my
offer?
EDWIN
Yes. I have considered it very carefully.
UTHER
Allow me some time to do the same.
[Edwin bows and exits. Uther gets up and goes to the table for a drink. Morgana
follows him.]
MORGANA
Uther, you can't do this.
UTHER
You heard what he said. Gaius is old, he makes mistakes.
MORGANA
Gaius has treated me since before I can remember. You can't cast him out.
UTHER
You would have died if your care had been left to him. That's something I could not
bear.
MORGANA
I know that, but ...
UTHER
I cannot risk something like this happening again.
--
[26:11, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBERS]
[Gaius watches Merlin in his sleep. Gaius goes down the Tunnel Corridor to the
Dragon's Cave with a torch.]
GAIUS
Hello? It is me, Gaius.
[The dragon flies up to the rock by the entrance.]
KILGHARRAH
How old a man can become and yet change so little.
GAIUS
You have not changed either.
KILGHARRAH
Twenty years, almost a lifetime to make the short journey back to where you began.
GAIUS
I'm not here for myself.
KILGHARRAH
The boy?
GAIUS
You know about Merlin?
KILGHARRAH
You have struggled against his destiny, but you can no more prevent it than he can.
GAIUS
So, it is true then?
KILGHARRAH
Oh yes. He and the young Pendragon one day will unite the land of Albion.
GAIUS
But he is in danger.
KILGHARRAH
No. It is my gaoler who stands in peril.
GAIUS
Must Uther be sacrificed for the boy?
KILGHARRAH
Their time cannot come until his is past.
GAIUS
But is that time now?
[The dragon chuckles darkly.]
KILGHARRAH
That is of your choosing.
GAIUS
I will not choose between them.
KILGHARRAH
Then turn a blind eye. That is, after all, your talent.
--
[Gaius sits and ponders.]
ARTHUR
Gaius, my father needs to speak to you.
GAIUS
When?
ARTHUR
Immediately.
--
[28:33, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM.]
GAIUS
Sire. Is there a problem? Are you unwell?
UTHER
This is not an ailment you can treat me for. You've been a loyal servant for many
years. I look on you as a friend.
GAIUS
I regard you in the same way, Sire.
UTHER
You've been here since Arthur's birth. And all that entailed. What I'm trying to do
I think is best for you.
GAIUS
I'm confused, Sire.
UTHER
I'll give you a generous allowance, make sure you're looked after.
GAIUS
You're retiring me?
UTHER
I don't want you to worry. I'll allow you to continue living in your chambers until
more suitable accommodation can be found.
GAIUS
Because I made one mistake? Although in truth, Sire, it was not a mistake.
[Gaius sees Edwin creep out from behind a column.]
GAIUS
It was...
EDWIN
Yes Gaius?
UTHER
It was unfortunate, I accept that.
GAIUS
May I ask who is to be the next court physician?
UTHER
None of this was Edwin's idea. Initially, he turned down the offer.
GAIUS
I'm sure.
UTHER
It's not been an easy decision, but .... the younger man, new ideas.
GAIUS
Yes.
UTHER
You're hesitant. Is there a reason you oppose his appointment?
GAIUS
Sire...
EDWIN
If you have anything to say, then say it now, Gaius.
UTHER
This is difficult for both of us.
GAIUS
I thank you for your patronage. It has been an honour and a pleasure to serve your
family, for all these years.
--
[Merlin enters while Gaius is packing.]
MERLIN
Gaius! Uther cannot do this to you. You tried to save Morgana.
GAIUS
Uther's not to blame.
MERLIN
I will speak to Edwin, you can work together.
GAIUS
No, you mustn't do anything.
MERLIN
I can't stand by and do nothing.
GAIUS
Uther's right. It's time I stepped down.
[Merlin sees him packing.]
MERLIN
What are you doing?
GAIUS
I cannot stay when there's no longer a use for me.
MERLIN
You're not leaving?
GAIUS
I believe it's for the best.
MERLIN
Then I will come with you.
GAIUS
Merlin, you're like a son to me. I never expected such a blessing so late in life.
MERLIN
And you are more than a father to me.
GAIUS
Then, as a father, I must tell you, you must remain here. Camelot is where you
belong.
MERLIN
But you belong here too.
GAIUS
Not anymore. Merlin, you must promise me you will not waste your gifts.
MERLIN
My gifts mean nothing without you to guide me.
GAIUS
You have a great destiny. If I have had a small part to play in that, then I'm
pleased.
MERLIN
There is so much I have yet to learn. I need you to teach me.
GAIUS
I'm afraid I am leaving here tonight, Merlin. And there's nothing you can do or say
that can persuade me otherwise.
MERLIN
I will not let this happen.
[Merlin exits.]
GAIUS
Goodbye, Merlin.
--
[32:11, EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS - DAY]
[Merlin watches Arthur practice.]
MERLIN
I can't understand why Uther would sack him over one mistake.
ARTHUR
A mistake that nearly killed Morgana. Besides, it wasn't the only one.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
ARTHUR
Edwin said his work was riddled with errors.
MERLIN
That's nonsense.
ARTHUR
No one wants Gaius to go, but my father's made his decision. There's nothing anyone
can do.
--
[32:41, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR]
[Uther walks with Edwin in the castle.]
UTHER
I think you'll be very happy here.
EDWIN
I'm sure I will. When I reviewed Gaius's work, I noticed that he's been prescribing
you arnica.
UTHER
It's for, er, my shoulder, it's an old battle wound. It gives me a lot of pain.
EDWIN
May I take the liberty of providing a new prescription? It should prove far more
effective.
UTHER
Really?
EDWIN
Oh, yes. It is a remedy to cure all ills.
--
[33:24, EXT. LOWER TOWN]
[Gwen sees Gaius lead a horse out of the main gate while she buys fruit from a
stall.]
GWEN
Gaius? You're leaving?
GAIUS
Yes, I'm sorry I didn't come and say goodbye.
GWEN
I don't want you to go. I don't trust Edwin. There was no blood in Morgana's ear,
he put it there. He did something to her, I know he did.
GAIUS
You need to be careful who you say that to.
GWEN
I'm saying it to you because you can do something about it.
GAIUS
I can't.
GWEN
But you think the same, don't you? He's evil.
GAIUS
It's not that simple.
GWEN
So you're going to turn your back on us?
GAIUS
I have no choice, I'm sorry Gwen.
GWEN
In life you always have a choice. Sometimes it's easier to think that you don't.
GAIUS
Well, then. My choice is to leave.
GWEN
Then I'll miss you.
[Gwen kisses Gaius on the cheek.]
GWEN
Goodbye Gaius.
--
[34:16, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBERS]
[Uther drinks a potion and passes out on the bed.]
--
[34:35, Gaius sits by a campfire in the woods.]
--
[Edwin leans over Uther's bed as Uther wakes from his drug induced sleep.]
EDWIN
My Lord. My Lord. It seems the drugs I gave you have taken hold. Your body is now
paralysed. Now, open your eyes, My Lord. I want my face to be the last face you
ever see. You took my childhood from me. And now finally, I take my parents'
revenge. Within a few hours, the beetle will eat into your brain. And you will
suffer, as they suffered. And I long to hear you scream, as they screamed the night
you gave the order for the fires to be lit. With your death, magic will return to
Camelot. Bebeode þe arisan ealdu.
[The bug crawls into Uther's ear.]
EDWIN
Goodbye, Uther Pendragon.
--
[36:00, INT. KING’S PALACE, EDWIN'S GUEST QUARTERS]
[Edwin enters.]
GAIUS I will not allow you to kill Uther.
EDWIN
You've never had a problem letting people die before.
GAIUS
Your parents were practising dark magic, just like you.
EDWIN
And how do you propose to stop me?
GAIUS
Wáce ierlic.
[Nothing happens.]
EDWIN
Hmm. I think you meant: vaki ierlt.
[The spell throws Gaius against the wall.]
EDWIN
Have you forgotten everything, Gaius? You're getting too old. I have a cure though.
Forbærne yfel.
[The spell encircles Gaius in flames.]
--
[26:59, INT. KING’S PALACE, GRIFFIN STAIRCASE - NIGHT]
[Arthur runs in as Merlin descends the curved stairs.]
ARTHUR
Merlin! My father has Morgana's illness! We must find Edwin!
--
[37:07, INT. KING’S PALACE, EDWIN'S GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin bursts in.]
MERLIN
What are you doing?
GAIUS
He was trying to kill the King. I couldn't let him.
EDWIN
I can rule the kingdom now. And with you at my side, we can be all-powerful.
MERLIN
Release him!
EDWIN
It's your loss, Merlin.
[Edwin's spell throws an axe at Merlin, but Merlin stops it.]
EDWIN
Swilte, Merlin.
[Merlin's magic overpowers Edwin's. Merlin sends the axe to kill Edwin and the
flames disappear.]
MERLIN
Are you alright?
GAIUS
Yes. Thank you Merlin.
[Merlin fetches the bug box.]
GAIUS
What are you doing?
MERLIN
Uther's ill; the same thing Morgana had. Edwin said he used these to cure Morgana.
Maybe we can too.
GAIUS
Elanthia beetles.
MERLIN
They're magical?
GAIUS
Yes. They can be enchanted to enter the brain, feed on it until they devour the
person's very soul. We must going to him.
--
MERLIN
How do we get the beetle out before it kills him?
GAIUS
It can only be magic.
MERLIN
We can't use magic on Uther, he'd kill us.
GAIUS
We don't have a choice.
MERLIN
Gaius!
GAIUS
There are times when it is necessary. It is your right.
MERLIN
I don't know how.
GAIUS
If you don't, he's going to die.
[Merlin sits on the bed and places his hands over Uther's ears.]
MERLIN
Bebeode þe arisan ealdu. Áblinnen.
GAIUS
What's happening?
[Merlin pulls his hands back, holding the still bug in his hand.]
GAIUS
Has anyone ever told you, you're a genius?
MERLIN
You certainly haven't.
--
[40:41, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Gaius prepares a potion for Uther the next morning.]
GAIUS
Drink this. It'll help regain your strength.
UTHER
There's nothing wrong with my strength. Do you remember them? His parents?
GAIUS
I remember them all, Sire.
UTHER
Gaius. Once again, you saved my life. You've always served me well. And I know
there are things that I've asked you to do, which you found difficult.
GAIUS
You've always done what you believe to be right.
UTHER
I was not right to betray you. I'm sorry. From now on I will remember that, in the
fight against magic, you are the one person I can trust.
--
[Gaius stands before the royal court.]
UTHER
I, my family, and my kingdom are deeply indebted to you. And in honour of this, I
not only reinstate you as court physician, but henceforth, you are a free man of
Camelot.
[Uther hands Gaius a roll of parchment and the court applauds.]
--
GAIUS
Of course, it's all ridiculous. I didn't save Uther, you did.
MERLIN
No, no. For once, I'm happy for someone else to take the credit. You were prepared
to sacrifice your life to save me.
GAIUS
Where do you get that from?
MERLIN
I thought...
GAIUS
No. I didn't do anything. You saved me and you saved Uther. Maybe you are a genius.
MERLIN
You think so?
GAIUS
Well, almost. One day.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:04
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BBC Merlin: 1x07 The Gates of Avalon
KILGHARRAH
--
[Arthur drifts under water wearing his armour. A woman stands over him. Morgana
wakes with a gasp.]
MORGANA (whisper)
Arthur! Arthur!
--
[01:16, EXT. FOREST – DAY]
[Arthur slinks through the woods with a crossbow. Merlin bursts out of the trees
and bumps Arthur as he's about to shoot.]
MERLIN
What is it?
ARTHUR
You really are a total buffoon, aren't you, Merlin?!
MERLIN
I was just asking.
ARTHUR Who? Me or the deer?! We're supposed to be hunting. It requires speed,

stealth and an agile mind.
MERLIN
So you're able to get by on two out of three, then?
[woman screaming.]
MERLIN
What was that?
AULFRIC (distant)
Please! Don't!
ARTHUR
Quiet.
SOPHIA (distant)
Help!
[Arthur grabs his sword from Merlin.]
--
[01:56, Aulfric lays on the ground as a bandit draws his sword to kill him. Sophia
struggles with three other purse snatchers.]
AULFRIC
No, no, I beg you! Mercy!
BANDIT
Give us some money!
SOPHIA
Help me! Help me!
[Arthur shoots one of the robbers; the others attack Arthur. Aulfric gets up and
holds Sophia while Arthur fights off the bandits; one of them gets up behind
Arthur.]
MERLIN
Forbærnen firgenholt.
[A large tree branch falls on top of the bandit trying to attack Arthur from
behind. Arthur kills the one in front of him and the final bandit runs off. Arthur
looks up at the tree.]
ARTHUR
Stroke of luck.
MERLIN
And let that be a lesson to you!
[Arthur gives him a look.]
MERLIN
What? I was covering your back.
ARTHUR
You alright? Didn't hurt you?
[Sophia turns to Arthur and removes her hood.]
SOPHIA
No... Thanks to you. I'm Sophia. This is my father.
ARTHUR
Arthur Pendragon... at your service.
[Arthur kisses Sophia's hand.]
--
[Aulfric and Sophia stand before the court.]
AULFRIC
My name is Aulfric, heir to Tír-Mòr. This is my daughter, Sophia.
UTHER
You're a long way from home. What brings you to Camelot?
AULFRIC
Our home was sacked by raiders, we barely escaped with what few possessions we
could carry.
UTHER
These are dangerous times. What will you do?
AULFRIC
We travel west to Caerleon where we have family and, I hope, a new life.
UTHER
You must stay here awhile, break your journey. A noble family like yours is always
welcome in Camelot.
[Arthur stares at Sophia she exits with her father.]
--
ARTHUR
Make sure you put her in a decent room.
MERLIN
The one next door's empty.
ARTHUR
The one next door's fine. Excellent, in fact. Shut up, Merlin.
MERLIN
What? I didn't say anything.
ARTHUR
You didn't have to. I want to make it clear that my intentions towards Sophia are
completely honourable. Put her in the room on the other side of the castle. It's
warmer, more comfortable.
MERLIN
Of course. She, er...is very beautiful.
ARTHUR
Yes, she is.
MERLIN
And if your intentions are honourable...
ARTHUR
Oh, they are. Most definitely.
MERLIN
Then what's the problem with her staying next door?
ARTHUR
There isn't one. You've convinced me. Put her in the room next to mine.
--
[Merlin hands Sophia a blanket.]
MERLIN
If you need anything, just let me know.
SOPHIA
Thank you.
[Sophia enters her guest room. Morgana sees her and approaches Merlin anxiously.]
MORGANA
Who is that?
MERLIN
Er, Sophia Tír-Mòr. We rescued her in the woods. Well, Arthur did most of the
rescuing.
MORGANA
She can't stay here.
MERLIN
The King said that she and her father are welcome in Camelot. Is everything ok?
MORGANA
Yes. Thank you.
--
[Morgana enters just as Gaius takes a flask off of the burner.]
MORGANA
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you.
GAIUS
Nonsense, my child. My favourite patient is always welcome.
[Gaius kisses her cheek.]
GAIUS
I'm sorry about the mess. Most of it's Merlin's. If I'd known you were coming, I'd
have tidied up in here.
MORGANA
Er, it's not that. It's just...your bench is on fire.
GAIUS
My bench is on fire? What are you...
[Gaius turns to look.]
GAIUS
My bench is on fire!
MORGANA
Here.
[Morgana hands him a bucket. Gaius uses tongs to drop the flask in the water.]
GAIUS
You're always getting me into trouble. What brings you to this dark corner?
MORGANA
I had another dream.
GAIUS
I see.
MORGANA
I saw Arthur lying under water, drowning, and there was a woman standing over him,
watching him die. And she's here in Camelot.
GAIUS
The mind plays tricks. It borrows from everyday life and plays out its own fantasy.
MORGANA
But I had this dream before she came to Camelot.
GAIUS
You must be mistaken.
MORGANA
No, I know what I saw. It was so real...so vivid. I saw him die, Gaius. She's going
to kill him.
GAIUS
These are just dreams, Morgana, nothing more. Are you taking the sleeping draught I
made up for you?
MORGANA
Oh, it doesn't help.
GAIUS
Here. Try this. It will induce a deeper sleep.
[Gaius hands Morgana a bottle.]
GAIUS
You've nothing to fear.
MORGANA
Thank you, Gaius.
GAIUS
Morgana. Don't bother Uther about this. No need to worry him.
--
[07:58, EXT. FOREST, BANDIT’S CAMPFIRE – NIGHT]
[Aulfric approaches the bandit that got away. The bandit stands up and draws his
sword.]
AULFRIC
You can dispense with the unpleasantries -- your payment.
[Aulfric holds up a leather pouch.]
BANDIT
I want more. My friends are dead because of you.
AULFRIC
Yes. I'm sorry. Such a dreadful waste of life. But, if it's any consolation, you'll
see them again soon. má réðe cine týne!
[Aulfric uses his staff to kill the bandit.]
--
[Morgana stirs restlessly in her sleep. She sees the same vision of Arthur drowning
with Sophia standing over him. Morgana wakes.]
--
[08:44, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
ARTHUR
I'm taking Sophia out for a ride today. You know, show her around.
MERLIN
Where do I come into this?
ARTHUR
Well, I'm supposed to be on patrol with the guard of my father this morning, so I
need you to cover for me.
MERLIN
What, and lie to the King? No. No way. No, he'll see right through me. He'll have
me in the stocks quicker than you can say rotten tomatoes.
ARTHUR
Merlin.
[Merlin sighs.]
ARTHUR
I need you to do this for me.
MERLIN
I am a terrible liar. I start sweating, my- my vision blurs, my- my brain stops
working.
ARTHUR
Well, no change there, then. Look, I promised Sophia I'd take her out and if I
don't turn up it'll blow my chances.
MERLIN
You like her, then?
ARTHUR
Yeah. What's not to like? I want to spend some more time with her, but I need to
get my father off my back. I can't order you to lie to the King, but ...you'd be a
friend for life if you did.
MERLIN
Go on, then, you don't want to keep her waiting.
ARTHUR
Thanks, Merlin. I won't forget it.
--
[Morgana watches Arthur ride out of Camelot with Sophia.]
GWEN
You're sure it's her?
MORGANA
I could never forget that face.
GWEN
You should speak to the King.
MORGANA
And tell him what? That I can see the future?
GWEN
If you think Arthur's life is in danger.
MORGANA
You know how he'd react.
GWEN
You're his ward, he wouldn't harm you.
MORGANA
He hates magic more than he cares for me.
GWEN
That's not true.
MORGANA
Would you care to put it to the test?
GWEN
But what else can you do?
MORGANA
I'm going to have to try and stop her myself.
--
UTHER
Where's my son?
MERLIN
I'm not sure where he is. I, erm, I think there's been a mistake. But it's not his
fault. Arthur's, I mean.
UTHER
Stop gibbering and tell me where he is.
MERLIN
It's probably... No, it's definitely my fault.
UTHER
Where is Arthur?
MERLIN
He's not here.
UTHER
I can see that.
MERLIN
Arthur wasn't sure of his orders, so he asked me to check with the guards to see if
he was riding out this morning and...well...I may have forgotten.
UTHER
You forgot?
MERLIN
I'm sorry, My Lord. I am sure he would have been here had I told him.
UTHER
If this was a time of war, I would have you flogged.
MERLIN
And since it's not, we'll let it go just this once?
--
[Merlin pelted with rotten tomatoes in the stocks.]
MERLIN
I forgot how much fun this was.
--
[Arthur walks through the woods with Sophia.]
ARTHUR
The river's not far. It's just down here.
SOPHIA
Arthur...wait.
ARTHUR
What is it?
[Sophia takes Arthur's hands and looks into his eyes.]
SOPHIA
Túce hwón frec'úre, artur.
GUARD (distant)
You there! Halt!
[Sophia backs away and Arthur tackles her as an arrow flies at them. Arthur runs
toward the guards.]
GUARD (distant)
Sorry!
ARTHUR (distant)
Sorry?! You nearly shot a crossbow in my face! What do you mean you're sorry?!
[Sophia looks at the arrow in the tree behind her. Arthur jogs back.]
ARTHUR
You okay?
SOPHIA
Yes. Thanks to you.
ARTHUR
They were searching for the bandits that attacked you yesterday. Here.
[Arthur picks up Sophia’s staff to give it to her.]
SOPHIA
Don't touch that!
ARTHUR
I'm sorry. Maybe we should go back.
SOPHIA
It's fine. I- I'm sorry, I was upset. Now, don't let this spoil our day together.
We were having such a nice time. Let's go down to the river.
ARTHUR
I'm taking you back to Camelot. Your father would never forgive me if I let
anything happen to you.
--
[Merlin enters covered in tomato paste.]
GAIUS
Have you been playing with your food again?
MERLIN
The King put me in the stocks.
GAIUS
What'd you do this time?
MERLIN
Nothing. Honestly, it wasn't my fault. Arthur wanted to get out of going on patrol
with Uther and the guard, so I covered for him and took the blame.
GAIUS
And Arthur was prepared to let you do this?
MERLIN
It was his idea.
GAIUS
And what made him neglect his duties? It must've been something terribly important.
MERLIN
Sophia.
GAIUS
The girl from the forest?
MERLIN
He wanted to take her out for the day. He is besotted.
GAIUS
But they've only just met.
MERLIN
I know. I guess it must have been love at first sight.
GAIUS
Yes. I suppose it must be.
--
[13:33, AULFRIC'S GUEST CHAMBERS]
[Gaius snoops around and inspects Aulfric's staff.]
AULFRIC
Can I help?
GAIUS
Forgive me. The door was open. I thought someone may have broken in.
AULFRIC
Looks like they have.
GAIUS
I apologise for imposing on you. It won't happen again.
AULFRIC
Make sure it doesn't.
--
[14:28, INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE]
[Arthur and Sophia ride in and dismount.]
ARTHUR
You're sure you'll be alright?
SOPHIA
Yes. Thank you for today.
[Sophia kisses Arthur's cheek.]
SOPHIA
Good night, Arthur.
--
[Sophia enters the palace and bumps into Morgana.]
SOPHIA
Sorry! Lady Morgana, isn't it? I'm Sophia.
MORGANA
SOPHIA
My father and I are guests of the King.
MORGANA
You're lying. I know what you're going to do to him, and I won't let it happen.
SOPHIA
Does Arthur know you feel this way about him? Of course he does. I suspect he's
already turned you down.
MORGANA
Don't think you can make a fool out of me.
SOPHIA
I won't have to. You're managing to do that well enough already.
MORGANA
Stay away from him.
SOPHIA
Or what? Jealousy is such an unattractive trait in a women.
MORGANA
If anything happens to Arthur, I'll find you. However long it takes.
--
[15:51, INT. KING’S PALACE, AULFRIC'S GUEST CHAMBERS]
[Sophia enters.]
AULFRIC
You've not been gone as long as I expected.
SOPHIA
We were interrupted.
AULFRIC
What happened?
SOPHIA
I was nearly killed. For a moment, I felt what it would be like to die a mortal
death. He saved me. Someone so weak, so feeble, saved me! I can't bear to be like
this a moment longer.
AULFRIC
You won't have to. Once his heart is yours, the gates of Avalon will open once
again for us and we can regain our true form.
SOPHIA
I need a little more time.
AULFRIC
You must hurry. The physician can see us for what we truly are.
SOPHIA
And he is not alone. The Lady Morgana. She fears her powers, but that will not keep
her quiet for long.
AULFRIC
Tomorrow, you have to finish the enchantment, otherwise our chance to rid us of
these mortal shells will be lost forever.
--
MORGANA
You seem very fond of her.
ARTHUR
You make that sound like a bad thing.
MORGANA
Not necessarily. I've just never seen you fall under a woman's spell so quickly.
ARTHUR
If you're jealous, Morgana, it's ok to admit it.
MORGANA
Don't flatter yourself.
ARTHUR
Come on. It wouldn't be the first time now, would it?
MORGANA
Arthur, I'm trying to protect you! She isn't what she seems.
ARTHUR
Why? What makes you say that?
MORGANA
I just have a feeling. It's difficult to describe. I had a dream. A nightmare.
[Arthur laughs.]
ARTHUR
You really are very sweet, Morgana.
MORGANA
Why are you laughing?
ARTHUR
You! Your feelings, bad dreams. You don't have to make this stuff up. You can tell
me the truth. It's obvious you like me.
MORGANA
Less and less by the second.
ARTHUR
All right. Whatever you say.
MORGANA
You're intolerable. Just hope I'm wrong about her.
--
MERLIN
You're dressed!
ARTHUR
Nothing gets past you, does it, Merlin?
MERLIN
What- You're supposed to be wearing these! Your father's bestowing a knighthood on
one of your men this morning!
ARTHUR
I'm giving it a miss.
MERLIN
Won't the King mind?
ARTHUR
Not if you, er, cover for me, again. By the way, thanks for yesterday, I heard you
ended up in the stocks. Bad luck.
MERLIN
They were throwing potatoes at me. It's only supposed to be rotten fruit.
ARTHUR
I'm not sure there's any hard-and-fast rules, but if it's any consolation, I think
it was worth it.
MERLIN
What? It went well?
ARTHUR
Great. Fantastic. She's incredible.
MERLIN
Don't worry. I'll find a way to get you out of it.
ARTHUR
Just make sure you don't end up in the stocks this time.
MERLIN
I won't. I think I'm starting to get the hang of this whole deception lark.
--
[Merlin pelted with rotten food in the stocks.]
--
[Arthur and Sophia frolic through the woods.]
ARTHUR
Wai-- wait! Careful.
SOPHIA
Don't worry. I will be. túce hwón frec 'úre, artur.
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
[Sophia takes Arthur's hand and looks into his eyes.]
SOPHIA
Þec nom feoh gyse. Cume morðor rice ær. Túce hwón frec úre, artur.
[Sophia and Arthur's eyes glow red.]
--
[19:30, Physician's Chambers]
[Merlin enters covered in rotten food.]
GAIUS
Not again Merlin, surely?
MERLIN
You would think that the appeal of pelting the same person with fruit would wear
off after a while, but, oh, no!
GAIUS
I heard that Arthur wasn't at the knighting ceremony.
MERLIN
Yeah, he wanted to make the most of his time left with Sophia.
GAIUS
So you helped him?
MERLIN
I'm his servant, I had to.
GAIUS
You shouldn't have done that, Merlin. I fear that Sophia may not be all that she
seems.
MERLIN
Why?
GAIUS
What do you know about seers?
MERLIN
Not much. They're supposed to be able to see the future, like prophets.
GAIUS
It's said to be an innate ability. Those who have it are born that way. Some aren't
even aware that what they see is the future. It comes to them in their dreams.
MERLIN
What's this got to do with Sophia?
GAIUS
The night before she and Aulfric came to Camelot, Morgana had a dream. Sophia was
in it.
MERLIN
Before she arrived in Camelot?
GAIUS
I've been watching Morgana since she was very young. And though I tried to persuade
myself otherwise, I realised that some of the things she said she'd dreamt came to
pass. I kept it secret from Uther, of course. The gift of prophecy is too close to
the work of magic.
MERLIN
You think Morgana is a seer?
GAIUS
I don't think it. I fear it. Morgana said she dreamt that Sophia killed Arthur.
MERLIN
Couldn't that have just been a dream? Maybe the- the woman Morgana saw just looked
like Sophia.
GAIUS
That's what I hoped. But Aulfric caught me in Sophia's room and, in a flash of
anger, his eyes changed colour.
MERLIN
Who are they?
GAIUS
It's not who they are that worries me. It's what they want with Arthur.
--
[Sophia continues enchanting Arthur.]
SOPHIA
Our love is strong. You feel the same way, too. If we were ever to be parted...
ARTHUR
I'd never let that happen.
SOPHIA
You may not have the choice. There are some here who don't want us to be together.
ARTHUR
I'll never let them come between us.
SOPHIA
Because we are in love.
ARTHUR
Because we're in love.
SOPHIA
You must seek permission for us to marry... so that we can be together.
ARTHUR
Till death do us part.
SOPHIA
Túce hwón frec'úre, artur.
[Sophia's eyes glow red and she kisses Arthur.]
SOPHIA
Till death do us part.
[Arthur's eyes glow red and Sophia exits.]
--
[22:17, Aulfric meets Sophia outside Arthur's door.]
SOPHIA
He's ready. Tomorrow he'll do what we need him to.
AULFRIC
Good, you have done well. I must go to the elders.
[Merlin sees Aulfric as he turns the corner to Arthur's Chambers and follows him.]
--
[22:31, Merlin follows Aulfric to the Lake of Avalon in the woods.]
AULFRIC
I seek an audience with the Sidhe elders! Do:tiag-sa ar idbairt do denam!
[Fairies appear over the lake.]
AULFRIC
I come before you to plead for the chance to win passage back to Avalon and a life
of immortality!
SIDHE ELDER
Your punishment for killing another Sidhe is a mortal body and a mortal life. You
will never be able to return to Avalon.
AULFRIC
The crime was mine, not my daughter's.
SIDHE ELDER
The gates of Avalon remain closed to your daughter. Unless the soul of a mortal
prince be offered up to them.
AULFRIC
Thank you. An immortal life for my daughter is all that I desire, so I promise you
the soul of the greatest prince of all. Arthur Pendragon! Muahahahaha!
--
GAIUS
Avalon. What you saw at the lake, it's Avalon. It must be.
MERLIN
What's...
GAIUS
The land of eternal youth. Mortals are only supposed to glimpse it the moment
before death.
MERLIN
Well, I've seen it and I'm still here.
GAIUS
Extraordinary. What did it look like?
MERLIN
Does it matter? They're going to sacrifice Arthur and we don't even know who "they"
are yet.
GAIUS
We do now. I found writing like this on the top of Aulfric's staff. It's Ogham, an
ancient script. Abas ocus bithe. Duthectad bithlane. "To hold life and death in
your hands." From the writing on his staff and what you saw at the lake, I'm afraid
I'm now certain. We're dealing with the Sidhe.
MERLIN
That does not sound like a good thing.
GAIUS
They're masters of enchantment.
MERLIN
You think Arthur's been enchanted?
GAIUS
Almost certainly. I'm afraid Morgana's dream is coming true.
--
[Arthur stands with Sophia before Uther.]
ARTHUR
I request this audience, Father, to discuss a matter of great importance. It cannot
have escaped your attention that I and Lady Sophia Tír-Mòr have grown very close.
UTHER
Not too close, I hope.
ARTHUR
We're in love. Which is why I come before you today to ask your permission to
marry.
[Uther laughs.]
UTHER
I assume you're joking.
ARTHUR
No. I'm going to marry her.
UTHER
But you only met two days ago.
ARTHUR
We're in love.
UTHER
In love? We had no idea that you were such a romantic, had we, Morgana?
MORGANA
No, he's full of surprises.
ARTHUR
I'm going to marry her. I don't care what either of you think about it.
UTHER
I thought you'd come to ask my permission?
ARTHUR
Out of courtesy, nothing more.
[Arthur takes Sophia's hand and walks toward the door.]
UTHER
Guards, door. You've forgotten whose court you're standing in.
ARTHUR
You won't stop me. If I want to marry her, I will.
UTHER
Arrest Sophia and Aulfric Tír-Mòr.
[The guards step forward.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
UTHER
And inform the executioner his services will be required tomorrow morning.
ARTHUR
You can't do this.
UTHER
Yes, I can, and unless you show me some respect, I will!
[Arthur bows his head.]
UTHER
Release them. You've got your whole life ahead of you. Sophia is no doubt your
first love,
but she certainly won't be the only one. Enjoy yourself while you can.
--
[28:29, INT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR]
[Morgana follows Uther.]
UTHER
You're not planning on springing any surprises on me, are you?
MORGANA
Don't you think you should be taking this a bit more seriously?
UTHER
He's young, foolish and in love. Give it a week and he'll be chasing after the next
girl that catches his eye.
MORGANA
Sophia will never let that happen.
UTHER
Do you bear a grudge against our guest?
MORGANA
There's something about her I don't trust. You've seen the way Arthur changed since
she's arrived.
UTHER
He's a fool in love.
MORGANA
She's dangerous.
UTHER
Dangerous? To who?
MORGANA
Arthur.
UTHER
Why do you say that?
MORGANA
I just have a sense, a feeling.
UTHER
And what has she done to make you have this feeling?
MORGANA
Nothing, yet. It's what she's going to do. I don't know how to tell you this.
UTHER
Try. Whatever it is, you can tell me.
MORGANA
I've just seen girls like this before. They string men along and then drop them. I
don't want to see him get hurt.
UTHER
I know you want to protect him, but some lessons we have to learn for ourselves.
He'll hurt for a week and then Sophia will be forgotten.
MORGANA
I hope so.
UTHER
Are you sure there's nothing else behind this?
MORGANA
Yes, it's nothing.
--
[Arthur's packs for travel wearing his armour. Merlin enters.]
ARTHUR
Get out.
MERLIN
I thought the King was a bit harsh.
ARTHUR
I don't need sympathy, Merlin, especially not from you.
MERLIN
But I did think he had a point.
ARTHUR
I ordered you to get out. Now leave me!
MERLIN
I know what you think you're doing, and I know you think you're in love with
Sophia...
ARTHUR
Who are you to tell me what I'm thinking?
MERLIN
I'm your friend.
ARTHUR
No, Merlin, you're my servant.
MERLIN
You don't know what you're doing. She's cast a spell on you. You're enchanted.
SOPHIA
I told you people would try to keep us apart.
ARTHUR
I know. I won't let that happen.
MERLIN
Look, don't listen to her, she's controlling you.
SOPHIA
We can elope together. Get away from this place, these people.
MERLIN
I saw you. I followed him. They're planning to sacrifice you.
AULFRIC
You let your servant talk to your guests this way?
MERLIN
I know what you're going to do, because I followed you to the lake and I heard
everything. You have to believe me.
SOPHIA
Don't listen to him, Arthur. Let's go. Let's leave tonight.
MERLIN
She's going to kill you. Sophia plans to sacrifice you to buy a life of
immortality. If you go with her, you'll die.
ARTHUR
It-- it doesn't make sense. We're--we're in love.
MERLIN
They're magical beings! Look at the writing on the staff.
[Merlin reaches for it. Aulfric pulls it away and his eyes glow red.]
MERLIN
Look at his eyes. Look at him. Do you believe me now? Arthur, do you see?
[Arthur turns around, his eyes glowing red.]
ARTHUR
I see everything.
[Merlin lunges toward Aulfric, but Aulfric uses his staff.]
AULFRIC
Na mben sis!
[Aulfric's spell throws Merlin against the wall and knocks him unconscious.]
--
[Morgana looks out her window and sees Arthur leaving the Square with Sophia and
Aulfric.]
--
[Morgana runs in.]
MORGANA
He's gone! Arthur's gone with her! She's taken him!
GAIUS
Slow down.
MORGANA
I know you don't believe me, but I'm so sure it's going to happen. My dream's going
to come true.
GAIUS
I do believe you.
MORGANA
I've got to tell Uther.
GAIUS
You can't.
MORGANA
I've got to do something, if I don't then Arthur will die.
GAIUS
You can't tell Uther about your dream. If Uther thinks you've got the seers' power,
he'll charge you with witchcraft.
MORGANA
I don't have a choice. I couldn't live with myself knowing I'd let him die.
GAIUS
Wait. We've known each other a long time, you trust me don't you?
MORGANA
Yes, you know I do.
GAIUS
Then trust me now. Stay here and don't say a word to anyone about this.
MORGANA
But Arthur...
GAIUS
I'll take care of it.
MORGANA
GAIUS
To find someone who can help.
--
[32:40, Arthur walks through the woods with Sophia and Aulfric.]
--
[32:53, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius enters AS Merlin is just coming around.]
GAIUS
Merlin! What happened to you?
MERLIN
Aulfric. Where's Arthur? I have got to go after him. What's that buzzing noise?
GAIUS
Careful, Merlin, you can barely stand up.
MERLIN
I have to go.
GAIUS
You can't, not in this state. You owe it to your powers that you survived this at
all.
MERLIN
I'll be fine, he needs me.
GAIUS
Has that buzzing stopped?
MERLIN
Yeah.
GAIUS
Liar.
MERLIN
I have to go, Gaius. He'll die if I don't.
GAIUS
The Sidhe are a vicious people. You must be careful.
MERLIN
Don't worry, I know what I'm doing.
GAIUS
Merlin? This way.
MERLIN
Just testing.
[Merlin runs through the forest.]
--
[33:35, EXT. LAKE OF AVALON]
AULFRIC
Go. They are waiting for you.
SOPHIA
I don't understand. You're coming too.
AULFRIC
Only one of us can pass through. This was never meant for me.
SOPHIA
I only wanted this so we could both return to Avalon.
AULFRIC
Your destiny is on a different path to mine. It is my fate to live a mortal life.
SOPHIA
I don't want to leave you.
AULFRIC
You must. Once the ceremony begins you have to go through with it. The elders
expect a soul. If they don't get his they will take yours.
SOPHIA
Goodbye.
[Sophia hugs her father.]
SOPHIA
I will never forget you.
[Sophia takes Arthur's hand and leads him into the lake, Merlin continues running.]
AULFRIC
Ia bend dǽdon níwe. Cúðon gare íewe deahl sǽ áre. Sé áre. Ig bæþ deahl sǽ néah.
Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him.
[Merlin trips in the woods, then keeps running.]
AULFRIC
An 'wén. Flíete á. Dómdæg. Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him. An 'wén. Flíete á.
[Sophia kisses Arthur.]
AULFRIC
Dómdæg. Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him. An 'wén. Flíete á. Dómdæg. Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him,
Arthur Pendragon.
[Arthur falls backwards into the water. Merlin keeps running. Aulfric keeps
incanting.]
AULFRIC
Ia bend dǽdon níwe. Cúðon gare íewe deahl sǽ néah. Sé áre. Ig bæþ deahl sǽ néah. An
'wén. Flíete á. Dómdæg. Déaþ ór cwylþ óga him.
[Merlin arrives and sees Aulfric's Sophia's staff on the ground.]
MERLIN
Onbregdan.
[The staff flies into Merlin's hand. Merlin points it at Aulfric.]
MERLIN
Swilte, gold beorþ.
[Bolt of light hits Aulfric and he explodes.]
SOPHIA
Father! No! No!
[Sophia tries to run to the shore. Merlin points the staff at her.]
MERLIN
Óga ceoles.
[A bolt of light hits Sophia and she explodes. Merlin takes his jacket off as he
runs into the water.]
MERLIN
Arthur! Arthur! Arthur!
[Merlin finds Arthur under the water and brings him to the surface.]
--
[Merlin and Gaius sit at Arthur's bedside waiting for him to wake. Arthur groans.]
MERLIN
Arthur? Arthur?
ARTHUR
What happened? Where am I?
MERLIN
Can you remember anything?
ARTHUR
Ow! Oh, my head! There was a girl. Sophia, she...I asked my father something about
her, I asked him...
[Arthur bolts up in bed.]
ARTHUR
What was I thinking?
MERLIN
Well, we did wonder. Especially when you eloped with her last night.
ARTHUR
I did what?
GAIUS
Merlin had to bring you back to Camelot.
ARTHUR
I don't recall any of this.
GAIUS
Must've been some blow.
ARTHUR
What blow?
MERLIN
Well, er, when I caught up with you, I couldn't persuade you to return, you were
beyond reason. So I had to make you.
ARTHUR
You managed to knock me out?
MERLIN
Yep. With a lump of wood.
GAIUS
He only did it to bring you back safely.
ARTHUR
No one can know about this. Any of it. Is that understood?
[Merlin and Gaius look at each other and then nod. Arthur falls back on his
pillows.]
--
[Arthur stands before the court.]
UTHER
When you failed to show up for patrol this morning, I feared you'd eloped with
Sophia in a fit of passion.
[Arthur turns to Merlin.]
MERLIN
I-- I wish he had. Because then I wouldn't be stood in front of you feeling like an
idiot... again.
UTHER
This is becoming a near daily occurrence for you.
MERLIN
But there was a mistake. And I would not say it was anyone's fault. Not- not
really. Erm, you- you could say it was mine.
UTHER
Could somebody tell me what happened?
MERLIN
Well...
UTHER
Someone with a brain.
ARTHUR
After Sophia left, I wanted to take my mind off her so I went for a hunt.
MORGANA
And killing things mends a broken heart?
ARTHUR
No, but it's good fun. Merlin was meant to inform you that I wouldn't be back till
later today.
UTHER
Have you some kind of mental affliction?
MERLIN
Probably.
GAIUS
I'm looking into it, Sire.
UTHER
Well, I hope for our sake you find a cure. Or we'll find ourselves with a food
shortage on our hands.
[Merlin chuckles.]
MERLIN
Food shortage.
[Merlin is pelted by rotten food in the stocks.]
--
[Morgana knocks and enters.]
GAIUS
Morgana.
MORGANA
I've had some troubled nights.
GAIUS
I prepared another draught for you. Have the dreams stopped?
MORGANA (shakes head)

Arthur told me what actually happened. You must've hit him round the head really
hard.
MERLIN
Yeah. I feel really bad about that.
GAIUS
Here you are. Remember, every night just before you go to sleep.
MORGANA
Thank you, Gaius.
GAIUS
She must never find out the truth.
MERLIN
Why not? She had a premonition that helped save Arthur's life.
GAIUS
And it could've cost her her own. If Uther ever found out, things would never be
the same again. It must remain a secret.
MERLIN
Is she like me? Can she use magic?
GAIUS
No one's like you, Merlin.
MERLIN
But she has the gift?
GAIUS
For her sake, I hope not.
--
[42:26, Morgana wakes from another nightmare.]
---------------------------------------------------

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November 30 2010, 23:06
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BBC Merlin: 1x08 The Beginning of the End

KILGHARRAH
--
[00:10, EXT. LOWER TOWN, MARKET – DAY]
[Mordred walks through the market with his father, Cerdan.]
CERDAN
Do you have my supplies ready? We must leave the city without delay.
STALLHOLDER
Everything you asked for, it's all here. I'm sorry.
[Guards approach. Mordred and his father duck under the merchant's table to run
through the market.]
GUARD
Seize him! Stop there!
[Mordred and Cerdan are forced to run into the palace grounds. A guard jumps at
them and slashes Mordred. Merlin hears Mordred's telepathic scream.]
CERDAN
*spell*
[The spell throws the guard into the rampart wall. Mordred can't run far, so he and
his father are stuck on the drawbridge.]
CERDAN
Abannan átí.
[The spell shuts the drawbridge gates.]
CERDAN
Run! Run, run!
[Mordred runs through the gates before they close. Cerdan allows himself to be
caught.]
--
[02:41, INT. KING’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Merlin walks down the corridor.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Help!
[Merlin stops to look for the owner of the voice. Merlin enters the Square.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Help me! Please.
[Merlin stops to look around again and sees Mordred sitting by a stone ledge,
looking at him.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Please. You have to help me.
[Merlin realises the boy is using telepathy.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Help me.
[Merlin sees the guards enter the Square.]
GUARD
Search in there. Take the other side. You, did you see a boy run in here?
MORDRED (telepathy)
They're searching for me.
MERLIN (telepathy)
Why are they after you?
MORDRED (telepathy)
They're going to kill me.
GUARD
Guards! In here!
[Merlin runs to a side door, looks at the guards, and then nods to Mordred.]
MERLIN (telepathy)
This way. Run. Run!
[Mordred runs to Merlin, holding his wounded arm.]
GUARD
Hey. There he is! Alert the rest of the guards!
[Merlin grabs Mordred's hand and they run up the Griffin Stairway.]
GUARD
In there. Quick, down there. We've got 'im.
[Merlin and Mordred run up the curved stairs.]
--
[Merlin bursts in with Mordred.]
MORGANA
Have you forgotten how to knock, Merlin?!
MERLIN
The guards are after him. I didn't know what to do.
GUARD (knocks)
My Lady? (knocks) My Lady?
MORGANA
In there.
[Morgana waits until Merlin and Mordred are behind the curtain to open the door.]
GUARD
I'm sorry to disturb you, My Lady.
[Mordred collapses into Merlin's arms.]
GUARD
We're searching for a young Druid boy. We believe he came this way.
MORGANA
I haven't seen anyone. It's just me and my maid.
GUARD
Best keep the door locked till we find him.
MORGANA
Of course. Thank you.
[Morgana closes the door and runs to check on Mordred. Merlin's hand is covered in
Mordred's blood.]
--
ARTHUR
The Druid was only in Camelot to collect supplies. He meant no harm. Is it
necessary to execute him?
UTHER
Absolutely necessary. Those who use magic cannot be tolerated.
ARTHUR
The Druids are a peaceful people.
UTHER
Given the chance, they would return magic to the kingdom. They preach peace, but
conspire against me. We cannot appear weak.
ARTHUR
Showing mercy can be a sign of strength.
UTHER
Our enemies will not see it that way. We have a responsibility to protect this
kingdom. Executing the Druid will send out a clear message. Find the boy. Search
every inch of the city.
--
[Mordred lies awake. Morgana and Merlin watch the Square below as Cerdan is waiting
to be executed. Uther and Arthur stand on the balcony.]
UTHER
People of Camelot, the man before you is guilty of using enchantments and magic.
Under our law, the sentence for this crime is death. We're still searching for his
accomplice. Anyone found harbouring the boy is guilty of conspiracy, and will be
executed as a traitor. Let this serve as a warning to your people.
CERDAN
You have let your fear of magic turn to hate. I pity you.
MORGANA
I can't watch this.
[Morgana leaves the window and sits down on the floor, cradling Mordred. Uther
signals for Cerdan to be executed.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
No!
[Morgana's mirror breaks.]
--
MERLIN
Do you know much about the Druids?
GAIUS
Very little. They're very secretive people. Especially now they're being hunted by
Uther. Merlin, please tell me you haven't got yourself mixed up in this.
MERLIN
Me? No. Mixed up in what?
GAIUS
For someone with such a big secret, you are a terrible liar.
MERLIN
Well, I haven't done anything.
GAIUS
Merlin...
MERLIN
I heard the boy calling out. He was nowhere to be seen, but I could hear him...
like he was inside my mind.
GAIUS
Yes, I've heard of this ability. The Druids look for children with such gifts to
serve as apprentices. While they're searching for this boy, you must be especially
careful otherwise it'll be your head on the chopping block.
MERLIN
I'm always careful. You know me.
GAIUS
Yes, Merlin, unfortunately I do.
--
[Merlin sees the guards poking their pole arms through a hay cart.]
--
MERLIN
How is he?
MORGANA
He's sleeping. He's very pale. I worry he may have lost a lot of blood.
MERLIN
Has he said anything at all?
MORGANA
Nothing. He won't even tell me his name.
MERLIN
You know, er, for a moment there earlier, I- I thought you were going to hand us
over to the guards.
MORGANA
I'm glad you have so much faith in me, Merlin.
MERLIN
No, no, sorry. Erm, I meant, you're the King's ward. You're taking a huge risk
helping the boy.
MORGANA
I wouldn't see an innocent child executed. What harm has he ever done anyone?
MERLIN
Uther believes he has magic, and that makes him guilty.
MORGANA
Uther's wrong.
MERLIN
You believe that?
MORGANA
What if magic isn't something you choose? What if it chooses you? Why are you
looking at me like that?
MERLIN
Nothing.
MORGANA
Why are you helping him?
MERLIN
It was a spur of the moment decision. What do you think we should do with him? He
can't stay here.
MORGANA
We have to find a way to get him back to his people.
--
[Morgana dining with Uther.]
UTHER
You seem troubled, Morgana. Is something wrong?
MORGANA
No, My Lord. I'm sorry I'm not better company.
UTHER
I'm merely concerned for your welfare, that's all.
MORGANA
Thank you, My Lord. All is well.
[Arthur enters.]
UTHER
What news of the hunt for the Druid boy?
ARTHUR
We have conducted an extensive search. The boy is nowhere to be found.
UTHER
You mean you failed to find him?
ARTHUR
Perhaps he's already left the city.
UTHER
You're telling me that a wounded boy is able to evade the guards and escape the
city? Nonsense, someone's hiding him. I want him found.
ARTHUR
He's just a boy. What harm can he do?
UTHER
He is a Druid, and that makes him dangerous.
MORGANA
The Druids would see your father's kingdom destroyed.
ARTHUR
I had no idea you were such an authority on Druids.
UTHER
Morgana is right. Double your efforts.
ARTHUR
Yes, father.
UTHER
Keep searching until you find him.
--
[Merlin checks on Mordred.]
MERLIN
He's burning up. How long has he been like this?
MORGANA
Since early this morning. I think his wound may be infected. We need Gaius before
it gets any worse.
MERLIN
No. We can't involve Gaius. It's too dangerous. Besides, if he finds out about
this, he'll execute me himself.
MORGANA
We need to get him out of Camelot, and we can't do that while he's sick. We need a
physician.
MERLIN
I'll treat him.
MORGANA
Merlin, do you know how to treat an infected wound?
MERLIN
Not exactly, but I'm a fast learner.
[footsteps and knocking at the door. Morgana closes the curtain and goes to open
the door.]
MORGANA
Arthur! To what do I owe this pleasure?
ARTHUR
Don't get all excited. It's not a social call. I'm looking for the Druid boy. I'm
afraid I'm going to have to search your chambers.
MORGANA
You're not searching my chambers.
ARTHUR
Don't take it personally. I have to search the entire castle. Only take a few
minutes.
MORGANA
I'm not having you mess up my things.
ARTHUR
I'm not interested in your things, I'm just looking for any evidence that the Druid
boy's in the castle.
[Merlin peeks through the curtain and sees Mordred's boots sitting out in plain
sight.]
MORGANA
Perhaps the Druid boy's hiding in your chambers. They're usually such a mess, you'd
never know.
ARTHUR
It's hardly my fault I have such a lazy idiot for a servant.
MERLIN (whisper)
Bestepe 'scós.
[The boots tiptoe towards Merlin.]
MORGANA
If you can't even find your own servant, what hope do you have of finding the boy?
MERLIN (whisper)
Gestælle scós.
[The boots hide behind a column.]
ARTHUR
Really, I'm touched by the confidence you have in my abilities. And, as much as I'd
love to stay and talk, the sooner we get started, the sooner we'll be finished.
MERLIN (whisper)
Ástýre scós.
[The boots tiptoe to Merlin behind the curtain.]
MORGANA
Well, I'll save you the trouble.
ARTHUR
Trust me, if I could find him, I would.
MORGANA
The Druid boy's hiding behind the screen. I'm sure your father would love to know
how you wasted your time by rifling through my things. Go on.
ARTHUR
So you can have the satisfaction of making me look a fool?
MORGANA
In my experience, you don't need any help looking like a fool. What are you waiting
for? Take a look.
ARTHUR
Why don't you go back to brushing your hair, or whatever it is that you do all day?
MORGANA
Bye, Arthur. Good luck with the search!
--
[Merlin searching through books.]
MERLIN
Bites, bruises, burns, wounds... Infections...
[Merlin grabs a few bottles and some herbs.]
GAIUS
Ah, there you are. I need you to pick some heather for me.
MERLIN
Er, can I do it later? I was just going out.
GAIUS
Who set this book out?
MERLIN
It was me. I was doing some reading.
GAIUS
Oh? I'd given up hoping you might take more of an interest in my work.
MERLIN
No. It's fascinating.
GAIUS
Merlin, you are riddle wrapped up in a mystery.
MERLIN
That's me. I was just getting some cleaning supplies. Arthur's been complaining
about the state of his chambers.
GAIUS
I think Arthur's chambers can wait. I'm not missing the chance to begin your
education.
MERLIN
Really. I should go.
GAIUS
Sit! We'll start with some basic anatomy...
[Gaius pulls out a giant volume.]
--
[Morgana opens the door for Merlin to enter.]
MORGANA
What took you so long?
MERLIN
Sorry. Once Gaius gets talking about anatomy, there's no stopping him.
[Merlin begins treating Mordred.]
MORGANA
Are you sure you know what you're doing?
MERLIN
I'm doing my best.
MORGANA
I'll get you some more water.
MORDRED (telepathy)
Thank you, Emrys.
Merlin (telepathy)
Emrys? Why do you call me that?
MORDRED (telepathy)
Among my people, that is your name.
MERLIN (telepathy)
You know who I am. How?
MERLIN
Speak to me.
MORGANA
I don't know if he can't speak, or... he's just too scared to.
--
[15:44, INT. KING’S PALACE, TUNNELS/DRAGON’S CAVE]
[Merlin sees the guards continuing to search the castle as he goes down the Tunnel
Corridor to the Dragon's Cave.]
MERLIN
Hello?
[The dragon climbs around a corner and roars. Merlin sighs.]
MERLIN
Do you have to do that? You scared the life out of me.
KILGHARRAH
The young warlock. No doubt you're here about the Druid boy.
MERLIN
How did you know?
KILGHARRAH
Like you, I hear him speak.
MERLIN
Why does he call me Emrys?
KILGHARRAH
Because that is your name.
MERLIN
I'm pretty sure my name's Merlin, always has been.
KILGHARRAH
You have many names.
MERLIN
Do I? How does the boy know who I am? I've never even met any Druids.
KILGHARRAH
There is much written about you that you have yet to read. You should not protect
this boy.
MERLIN
Why? He has magic. He's just like me.
KILGHARRAH
You and the boy are as different as day and night.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
KILGHARRAH
Heed my words, Merlin.
MERLIN
Why should I not protect him?
--
[Morgana tends the feverish Mordred.]
GWEN
Let me care for him for a while. You need to sleep. You'll make yourself sick if
you go on like this.
MORGANA
His fever's getting worse.
MORDRED (telepathy)
Morgana.
MORGANA
Did you hear that?
GWEN
What?
MORGANA
He said my name.
GWEN
Did he? I didn't hear anything.
[A knock on the door.]
MERLIN
It's Merlin.
[Gwen opens the door.]
MERLIN
How is he?
MORGANA
He's getting weaker. Whatever you did yesterday, it hasn't worked. We have to ask
Gaius for his help. After all you've done, you can't give up now! Please! If he
doesn't receive treatment, he'll die!
MERLIN
OK.
--
GAIUS
The search for this Druid boy is becoming a real nuisance. With all the extra
security around the castle, it's taking me twice as long to do my round. Is that
everything?
MERLIN
Morgana's hiding the Druid boy in her chambers.
GAIUS
When you say that Morgana's hiding the Druid boy, I take that means that you're
helping her?
MERLIN
Sort of.
GAIUS
Merlin, you promised me that you wouldn't get involved.
MERLIN
I know. I'm sorry. I had no choice.
GAIUS
Every guard in Camelot is searching for this boy, and you're harbouring him under
their very noses. Can't you see how dangerous that is? What were you thinking of?
MERLIN
Was I supposed to hand him over to the guards to be executed?
GAIUS
You think you can save this boy? What happens if you're caught? Who's going to save
you?
MERLIN
You're saying it's wrong to harbour a young magician?
GAIUS
The difference is, Merlin, that your magic is still secret. Though it's a wonder
how, considering how careless you are.
MERLIN
The boy's hurt. He's really sick. I've tried to treat him. We need your help.
GAIUS
So, now you want me to risk my neck, too? I wish the boy no harm, but it's too
dangerous.
MERLIN
But if you don't, we may as well hand him over to the guards, because he'll die
anyway. You didn't turn your back on me. Please don't turn your back on him.
--
[Gaius examines Mordred.]
GAIUS
I will treat the boy, but as soon as he's well, you must get him out of Camelot.
And woe betide anyone caught helping him. Well, one thing we know for certain.
MERLIN
What's that?
GAIUS
You're no physician.
--
[20:13, EXT. LOWER TOWN, MARKET – DAY]
[Morgana, Merlin, and Gwen watch the guards.]
GUARD
Halt there.
[The guards stop a man pulling a cart out through the gate.]
GWEN
The guards are searching everyone leaving the town.
MERLIN
There is another way out. There's a secret door in the armoury. It leads to the
lower town. I'll take the boy out that way.
MORGANA
No. It's too dangerous. I'll do it.
MERLIN
But I--I'm good with secret doors and things.
MORGANA
If you are caught, Uther will execute you. The boy's my responsibility. I'll
smuggle him out of the castle.
MERLIN
Well, you'll need a key for the door.
MORGANA
Who has it?
MERLIN
Arthur.
--
[Arthur dines on soup.]
MERLIN
Inbringe, cume mec.
[The spell floats the keys off of Arthur's belt.]
ARTHUR
Is there any bread?
[The keys jangle as Merlin floats them behind Arthur's head as he turns.]
ARTHUR
What was that?
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
There was a sound.
MERLIN
Was there?
[Merlin continues floating the keys behind Arthur's head as he stands up to search
for the sound.]
ARTHUR
What is that? Can't you hear it?!
MERLIN
I can't hear anything.
ARTHUR
Are you deaf? It's like a...jangling sound.
[Arthur walks towards Merlin.]
MERLIN
There!
[Merlin points behind Arthur.]
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
I thought I saw something.
[Arthur moves to where Merlin pointed. Merlin drops the keys into the soup.]
ARTHUR
What was that?
MERLIN
What was what?
ARTHUR
A different sound, like a...like a splash.
[Merlin picks up some bread from the table.]
MERLIN
Bread?
[Arthur leaves, checking his hearing on the way out. Merlin grabs the keys from the
soup.]
--
[Morgana dresses in Gwen's clothes.]
MORGANA
It'll have to do.
[Morgana sighs.]
MORGANA
I feel I've put you in danger without ever stopping to ask how you feel about it.
I'm sorry.
GWEN
I know how it feels to face the threat of execution. And I wouldn't wish that on
anyone.
[Knocking.]
MERLIN
It's Merlin.
[Gwen goes to open the door. Morgana goes to Mordred.]

MORGANA
We're going to get you out of Camelot. I won't let anything bad happen to you. I
promise.
MERLIN
Are you ready?
[Morgana nods.]
MORGANA
Did you get the keys?
MERLIN
Yeah. Er, the door is behind the shield at the far end of the armoury.
GWEN
I'll pack you some food and water for the journey. Be careful.
--
[23:16, INT. KING’S PALACE – NIGHT]
[Guards march through the Griffin Landing as Morgana peeks over the edge of the
curved stairs and descends with Mordred. A serving girl sees them sneaking off
through the corridor at the bottom of the Spiral Stairway. They sneak out through
the door behind the shield in the armoury.]
--
[24:08, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE – NIGHT]
[Gwen prepares some travel supplies.]
GWEN
I hope they're OK. Morgana really cares about the boy. I've never seen her this way
with anyone.
MERLIN
I'm sure she just wants to protect him.
GWEN
Hmm.
--
[24:25, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARMOURY – NIGHT]
[Arthur walks through the armoury with a guard.]
GUARD
A servant saw someone entering. They had a boy with them.
[Arthur sees the revealed door and checks his key ring, but the key is missing.]
ARTHUR
Sound the warning bell.
--
[24:48, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE – NIGHT]
[Merlin looks out the window as the warning bells sound.]
MERLIN
They're coming.
[Morgana and Mordred enter.]
GWEN
There's enough food for three days.
MERLIN
Your horse is fed and watered. I'll take you to it.
MORGANA
No. There's no point in all of us risking our lives.
MERLIN
What about you?
MORGANA
I'm the King's ward. I'll take my chances.
GWEN
Morgana!
MORGANA
I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to either of you. We must go.
MORDRED (telepathy)
Goodbye, Emrys.
--
[Morgana and Mordred try to run, but Arthur and the guards approach through their
exit. Morgana and Mordred hide in a nearby building. Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
Fan out.
[Morgana and Mordred make a break for it, but they run across a guard and Arthur
blocks the other side of the path. Arthur draws his sword and places it at
Morgana's back.]
ARTHUR
Halt, or I'll run you through. Show yourself.
[Morgana turns around. Arthur is shocked.]
MORGANA
Let him go. I beg you. He's just a child.
[Arthur debates, looking at the guards around him.]
ARTHUR
Restrain them.
--
UTHER
All this time, you've been hiding the boy in my own palace. How could you betray me
like this?
MORGANA
I would not see him executed.
UTHER
I've treated you like a daughter. Is this how you repay me?
MORGANA
I did what I thought was right.
UTHER
You think it's right to conspire with my enemies against me?
MORGANA
How can this child be your enemy? He's just a boy.
UTHER
He is a Druid.
MORGANA
Is that such a crime?
UTHER
His kind would see me dead and this kingdom returned to anarchy and you would help
them.
MORGANA
Then punish me... but spare the boy. I beg you.
UTHER
Make arrangements for the boy to be executed tomorrow morning.
MORGANA
No! Please. He's done nothing.
UTHER
Let this be a lesson to you.
MORGANA
You don't have to do this.
UTHER
Do you hear me? I want him executed at dawn.
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
MORGANA
What have these people done to you? Why are you so full of hate?
[Morgana marches towards Uther and grabs his arm. Uther grabs her throat and
presses her against a chair back.]
UTHER
Enough! I will not hear another word! Do not speak to me until you are ready to
apologise for what you've done.
[Uther leaves, Arthur follows him.]
--
MORGANA
I promised that I wouldn't let anything bad happen.
MERLIN
You can't blame yourself. You tried your best.
MORGANA
It's not enough.
MERLIN
He's in jail now. There's nothing more we can do.
MORGANA
I will not let him die. Can I count on your help?
[Merlin nods.]
MORGANA
Thank you.
--
[28:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR]
[Arthur follows Uther down the corridor.]
ARTHUR
Perhaps imprisonment is a more suitable punishment for the boy. I mean, he's so
young.
UTHER
It would allow him to grow more powerful, more dangerous, until he strikes against
us.
ARTHUR
We don't know he's gonna strike against us. He's yet to do anything.
UTHER
It is enough that his people conspire to overthrow me. This is harsh, but
necessary. I take no pleasure in killing the boy.
ARTHUR
Well, then spare him for Morgana's sake. She's clearly grown attached to the boy,
and if you execute him I fear she will never forgive you.
[Uther stops and rounds on Arthur.]
UTHER
I do not seek her forgiveness! She has betrayed me!
ARTHUR
Yet you're sparing her.
UTHER
She has the promise I made her father to thank for that. The boy enjoys no such
privilege. He will be executed at dawn. Is that clear?
--
[Arthur enters. Morgana is waiting for him.]
ARTHUR
Make yourself at home.
MORGANA
You can't let your father execute the boy.
ARTHUR
You're lucky he's not executing you. Are you telling me he really was behind the
screen when I came to search your chambers?
[Morgana nods.]
MORGANA
I know you believe your father's wrong to execute him.
ARTHUR
What I believe doesn't matter. My father's made up his mind. He won't be talked out
of it. I tried.
MORGANA
Then the time for talking is over.
ARTHUR
Whatever you're thinking, it's not going to happen.
MORGANA
We have to get the boy back to his people.
ARTHUR
No. Forget it.
MORGANA
I can't believe you'd let an innocent child die!
ARTHUR
It's too late. He's been caught. I have no choice.
MORGANA
And is this how you will rule when you are King? You're not like your father.
ARTHUR
I will not betray him.
MORGANA
If I know you at all, you won't stand by and let this happen. Please. If you won't
do this for the boy, then do it for me.
--
[31:00, INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – NIGHT]
[Merlin watches the executioner sharpen his axe.]
--
[31: 16, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin enters. Morgana and Arthur look at him.]
MERLIN
Sorry. Was I interrupting something?
ARTHUR
Nothing you need concern yourself with. Go make yourself useful, muck out my
horses.
MORGANA
I trust Merlin.
[Arthur motions for Merlin to enter.]
ARTHUR
We're going to break the Druid boy out of the dungeons.
MERLIN
You can't do that.
MORGANA
We have to. Uther's going to execute him at dawn.
MERLIN
I mean... it's too dangerous. You've already been caught once, and if the King
catches you a second time he'll never forgive you.
MORGANA
I'm not worried for myself.
ARTHUR
Merlin's right. When my father finds out the boy's escaped, he will suspect you
being involved.
MERLIN
It's suicide.
ARTHUR
You must go to my father and apologise. Dine with him, he cannot hold you
responsible if you're with him when the boy escapes.
MORGANA
You need me if the plan's to work. You can't do this on your own.
ARTHUR
Merlin will take your place.
MERLIN
Me?
ARTHUR
I'm going to take the boy out through the burial vaults. There's a tunnel that
leads beyond the city walls. Get my horse from the stables and meet me there.
There's a grate that covers the entrance to the tunnel. Bring a rope and a
grappling hook to pull it off.
MERLIN
No-- no, I can't...
ARTHUR
Merlin. Do you understand? If you're not there to meet us, we'll surely be caught.
[Merlin nods.]
--
[32:50, INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON'S CAVE]
MERLIN
I need to know why you told me not to protect the boy.
KILGHARRAH
You seek my counsel and yet you choose to ignore it.
MERLIN
Just tell me why.
KILGHARRAH
If the boy lives, you cannot fulfil your destiny.
MERLIN
What's he got to do with my destiny? You said it's my destiny to protect Arthur.
KILGHARRAH
Then you have the answer you seek.
MERLIN
You're telling me that little boy is going to kill Arthur?
KILGHARRAH
It seems that is up to you.
MERLIN
No. You can't know that for certain.
KILGHARRAH
You have it in your power to prevent a great evil.
MERLIN
There must be another way! The future isn't set in stone!
KILGHARRAH
You must let the boy die.
--
GAIUS
I assume it's the plight of the Druid boy that's causing your forehead to wrinkle
like a lizard's elbow.
MERLIN
Would you let something terrible happen if it meant you'd stop something even worse
happening in the future?
GAIUS
I suppose it depends on what the 'terrible' and 'even worse' things were.
MERLIN
One of them's bad, really bad. And the other, it's...unthinkable.
GAIUS
It sounds as if you've already made your decision. You can only do what you believe
to be right, Merlin. I just hope it doesn't involve you putting yourself in
terrible danger.
MERLIN
For once, you don't have to worry. I'm going to do nothing.
--
[Gwen helps Morgana dress for dinner.]
MORGANA
Thank you.
[Morgana turns around and sees Gwen's expression.]
MORGANA
What is it? What's wrong?
GWEN
You're risking so much for this boy. You don't know anything about him. You don't
even know his name.
MORGANA
There's a bond between us.
GWEN
Stronger than the bond you have with Uther?
MORGANA
It's like nothing I've ever felt before. Perhaps I was always meant to help him.
GWEN
How can that be?
MORGANA
I don't know. I can't explain it.
[Gwen sighs and shakes her head.]
MORGANA
I must go to Uther.
GWEN
Good luck.
--
[Uther dines as Morgana enters with tear stained cheeks.]
MORGANA
I have come to apologise, My Lord. You have been generous and kind and fair. And I
owe you everything. I truly don't know what came over me. I acted without thinking
of the consequence. My behaviour was unforgivable. *gasp*
UTHER
I am glad you've seen sense. Dine with me. Let's put this *ahem* unfortunate
incident behind us.
--
[Arthur descends the Wrought Iron Stairway. He stops halfway and drops a smoking
bag down to the guards, who cough and pass out. Arthur grabs their keys and opens
Mordred's cell.]
ARTHUR
Don't be scared. I've sent word to your people, I'm taking you to them. You must
come with me.
[Arthur takes Mordred's hand and leads him out. They head down a tunnel with a
torch.]
ARTHUR
This way.
--
[The guards wake.]
GUARD
It's the Druid boy. He's escaped!
--
[37:53, INT. KING’S PALACE, TUNNELS – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Mordred reach the gate at the end of the tunnel. Merlin is nowhere in
sight.]
ARTHUR (whisper)
Merlin! Merlin! Don't worry, he'll be here.
--
[Merlin sits on his bed. The warning bells sound.]
--
[Morgana dines with Uther.]
UTHER
Guard!
[A guard enters.]
UTHER
Find out why they've sounded the warning bell.
GUARD
Yes, My Lord.
--
[38:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, TUNNELS – NIGHT]
[Arthur pushes against the gate.]
ARTHUR
Damn it, Merlin!
[Arthur and Mordred hear a door open at the other end of the tunnel. Arthur puts
out the torch.]
Guard (distant): I think they went that way.
--
[38:49, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER/TUNNELS – NIGHT]
[Merlin sits in his chamber. Arthur and Mordred wait anxiously.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Emrys. Emrys. Where are you, Emrys? Emrys. Help us. Please! They're coming.
GUARD 1
Look over there. Look over there. Check in there.
GUARD 2
Yes, sir.
[Arthur draws his sword.]
GUARD 1
But you look down here.
MORDRED (telepathy)
I'm scared, Emrys. They will kill me. Don't do this. Don't ignore me. I know you
can hear me. I thought you were my friend. We're the same. I don't want to die.
Emrys! Emrys! Emrys!
--
[39:47, EXT. TUNNEL EXIT – NIGHT]
[Merlin sneaks past the guards across the drawbridge.]
MERLIN
Hey!
ARTHUR (whisper)
Where the hell have you been?!
MERLIN
I had trouble getting out of the castle.
[Merlin narrows his eyes at Merlin.]
ARTHUR (whisper)
Well, get this grate off, they're coming!
[Merlin attaches the grappling hook and pulls off the grate. Merlin lifts Mordred
up onto the horse in front of Arthur.]
ARTHUR
If my father asks where I am, I've gone on a hunting trip. You'd better make
yourself scarce, or they'll execute you in his place.
MORDRED (telepathy)
Goodbye, Emrys. I know that someday we will meet again.
--
GUARD
My Lord. I regret to report that the Druid boy has escaped from the dungeon.
UTHER
What!? How?
GUARD
My Lord, he was assisted by some accomplices. The guards are searching Camelot as
we speak.
UTHER
Find him and his accomplices and kill them.
GUARD
Yes, My Lord.
UTHER
If I discover that you were somehow involved in freeing this boy, the consequences
will be extremely severe.
MORGANA
My Lord, you know I respect you too much to ever betray you like that.
UTHER
I made a promise to your father that I would protect you. But if you cross me
again, I will break that promise without a second thought.
[Uther leaves and Morgana scowls.]
--
[41:40, EXT. FOREST - NIGHT]
[Arthur and Mordred meet the Druids in the woods.]
ISELDIR
We are forever indebted to you, Arthur Pendragon, for returning the boy to us.
ARTHUR
You must not let it be known that it was I who brought him to you.
ISELDIR
We will tell no one. You have my word.
[The druids turn to leave.]
ARTHUR
Wait, I don't even know your name! At least tell me your name.
ISELDIR
It's all right.
MORDRED
My name is Mordred.
ARTHUR
Good luck, Mordred.
-----------------------------------------------

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November 30 2010, 23:09
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BBC Merlin: 1x09 Excalibur

KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, BURIAL VAULTS – NIGHT]
NIMUEH
Gehíere mé' wan cniht áwæce. Beo strangra ond steacra for brecþ wáne. úprærest
wærc, Uther Pendragon.
[The tomb Nimueh is standing next to cracks and a gauntlet hand breaks through.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES – NIGHT]
[Arthur kneels before Uther. Gwen stands next to Merlin in the crowd.]
UTHER
Do you solemnly swear to govern the people of this kingdom and its dominions
according to the statutes, customs and laws laid down by your forebears?
ARTHUR
I do, Sire.
UTHER
Do you promise to exercise mercy and justice in your deeds and judgments?
ARTHUR
I do, Sire.
UTHER
And do you swear allegiance to Camelot, now and for as long as you shall live?
ARTHUR
I, Arthur Pendragon, do pledge life and limb to your service and to the protection
of the kingdom and its peoples.
UTHER
Now being of age and heir apparent, from henceforth, you shall be Crown Prince of
Camelot.
[The court applauds. Arthur stands up and faces the crowd.]
GWEN
So how does it feel to be servant to the Crown Prince of Camelot?
MERLIN
Washing his royal socks will be even more of a privilege.
GWEN
You're proud of him, really. Even though you complain about him constantly.
MERLIN
I am not.
GWEN
You are. I can see it in your face.
MERLIN
Those socks are very clean! Of course I'm proud of them.
[Gwen laughs. a Black Knight on a horse bursts through the stained-glass window.
Arthur and the knights draw their swords.]
UTHER
What in the devil's name?
[The horse walks to Arthur and the Black Knight throws down a gauntlet. Uther sees
the crest on the Black Knight's shield with surprise. Arthur sheathes his sword to
pick up the gauntlet, but another knight gets there first.]
SIR OWAIN
I, Sir Owain, accept your challenge.
TRISTAN
Single combat. Noon tomorrow. Till the death.
[The Black Knight rides out.]
MERLIN
Have you ever seen this Black Knight before?
GAIUS
I don't believe so.
MERLIN
You didn't recognise his crest?
GAIUS
Crest?
MERLIN
Which house is it?
GAIUS
I'm not sure. I didn't see it that clearly.
MERLIN
But he's not someone you'd forget in a hurry, is he?
GAIUS
No.
MERLIN
So you don't think he's from around here?
GAIUS
That would seem likely.
MERLIN
Then what's he doing here?
GAIUS
Merlin, your faith in my all-seeing knowledge is both touching and wholly
misplaced. Maybe if you've finished your work, you could go to bed and leave me to
finish mine.
MERLIN
OK, I'm going. Gaius?
GAIUS
Merlin.
MERLIN
Do you think Owain can beat him?
GAIUS
We'll find out soon enough.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS]
[Arthur speaks with Morgana and Gwen.]
ARTHUR
He shouldn't have picked up the gauntlet!
MORGANA
So put an end to it.
ARTHUR
The challenge has been taken up. The fight cannot be stopped.
MORGANA
Then fight in his place.
ARTHUR
I can't.
MORGANA
Why not?
ARTHUR
Owain picked up the gauntlet. Owain is the one who must fight. That's the Knight's
Code. He knew that.
MORGANA
But it's a fight to the death!
ARTHUR
I know.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF RECORDS]
GEOFFREY
Gaius. Thank God.
GAIUS
You know why I'm here?
GEOFFREY
The Black Knight.
GAIUS
So it is he?
GEOFFREY
You saw his crest?
GAIUS
Have you confirmed it?
GEOFFREY
It is the crest of Tristan Dubois.
GAIUS
And he is the only knight ever to have carried such a crest?
GEOFFREY
Yes. According to the records.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM – NIGHT]
[Uther sits alone with his sword on the table in front of him. The door opens and
Uther reaches for his sword for a moment. Gaius enters.]
UTHER
Yes?
GAIUS
I'm sorry to disturb you, Sire.
UTHER
What is it?
GAIUS
The knight, the stranger. He bears the crest of Tristan Dubois.
UTHER
Yes.
GAIUS
But he's been dead for 20 years.
UTHER
I know. I killed him.
GAIUS
But how do you explain...?
UTHER
Dead men do not return.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, SIR OWAIN’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Tristan Dubois stands on the grounds in front of the castle the next morning.
Merlin and Arthur help Sir Owain prepare for the fight.]
ARTHUR
You've never fought in mortal combat before. It's different. It's not like the
training I've been giving you.
SIR OWAIN
Yeah, I know.
ARTHUR
Listen to me. The problem is, we've never seen him fight. You have to quickly get
the measure of him.
SIR OWAIN
But I have the same advantage. He's never seen me fight.
ARTHUR
True.
SIR OWAIN
You've watched me.
ARTHUR
Yes.
SIR OWAIN
And?
ARTHUR
And I know no one braver. Remember, all it takes to kill a man is one well-aimed
blow.
[The door opens. Gwen enters and curtsies to Owain.]
GWEN
The Lady Morgana asked me to give you this token. She wishes you to wear it for
luck.
SIR OWAIN
You can thank her, and tell her I shall wear it with pride. But I won't need luck.
--
[EXT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS – DAY]
[Tristan Dubois waits in the arena. Arthur walks into the tournament grounds with
Sir Owain.]
ARTHUR
Now remember, find the flow of the fight; try to control it.
[They enter the arena.]
ARTHUR
The fight shall be to the knight's rules! To the death!
[Arthur sidles into the stands.]
ARTHUR
Let battle commence!
[Tristan and Owain fight.]
GWEN
Come on, Owain!
ARTHUR
One well-aimed blow!
[Owain stabs Tristan in the gut.]
MERLIN
Yes!
[Tristan keeps fighting and kills Owain. the crowd gasps in horror. Morgana's
favour flutters on the ground. Tristan faces the crowd and takes off his glove.]
TRISTAN
Who will take up my challenge?
[Tristan throws down his gauntlet. Arthur tries to bolt over the barrier of the
stands, but his father grabs him. Another knight jumps over the stands and takes up
the gauntlet.]
PELLINOR
I, Sir Pellinor, take up the challenge.
TRISTAN
So be it.
[Tristan exits the arena. Merlin watches him leave.]
MERLIN
Should we tend to his wounds? He took a hit.
GAIUS
Owain didn't land a blow.
MERLIN
No, I saw it. The sword definitely pierced him.
GAIUS
Are you sure?
MERLIN
My eyes are quicker than yours. He should be dead.
GAIUS
Perhaps he already is.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM – DAY]
[Uther and Arthur enter.]
ARTHUR
Why did you stop me?!
UTHER
We have to give our knights the chance to prove themselves.
ARTHUR
Have you seen how this stranger fights?!
UTHER
And Sir Pellinor is more than a match for him.
ARTHUR
He's not recovered from the wounds he suffered at Othanden!
UTHER
I can't help that.
ARTHUR
So you send him to his death?
UTHER
It was his choice to take up the gauntlet! I am not to blame.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, BURIAL VAULTS]
[Merlin and Gaius enter the Tunnel Corridor to the Burial Vaults.]
MERLIN
Are you sure we should be doing this?
GAIUS
You're not scared, are you?
MERLIN
No, I love old crypts. I wouldn't be seen dead anywhere else.
[The door slams behind them.]
GAIUS
Must've been a gust of wind.
MERLIN
We should've brought a torch.
MERLIN
Leohtbora.
[Merlin lights a torch sitting in the wall of the Tunnel Corridor.]
GAIUS
Huh. Handy!
MERLIN
Yes.
[Merlin and Gaius walk among the graves.]
MERLIN
What are we looking for?
GAIUS
Bring your torch over here.
MERLIN
We're breaking into someone's grave?
[Gaius sees the open tomb.]
GAIUS
We're too late. I think someone's already broken out.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS]
GAIUS
Tristan Dubois was the brother of Ygraine, Uther's wife.
MERLIN
Arthur's mother?
GAIUS
Ygraine died in childbirth. He blamed Uther and came to the gates of Camelot and
challenged him.
MERLIN
To single combat.
GAIUS
Uther won. But in his dying breath, Tristan cursed Camelot to one day suffer his
return. I thought it was the ramblings of a dying man.
MERLIN
Men don't just rise up from the dead, though, no matter how angry they are.
[Gaius opens a book.]
GAIUS
It's my guess we're dealing with a wraith.
MERLIN
A wraith?
GAIUS
The spirit of a dead man conjured from the grave.
MERLIN
So this is the work of a sorcerer?
GAIUS
Powerful magic can harness the grief and rage of a tormented soul and make it live
again.
MERLIN
How do we stop it?
GAIUS
We can't. Because it's not alive, no mortal weapon can kill it.
MERLIN
Surely there must be something.
GAIUS
Nothing can stop it until it has achieved what it came for.
MERLIN
And what's that?
GAIUS
Revenge.
MERLIN
On Camelot? What does that mean for Sir Pellinor?
GAIUS
I'm afraid it doesn't look good.
--
[Sir Pellinor fights Tristan Dubois in the arena. Sir Pellinor is doing well and
the crowd cheers.]
MERLIN
Maybe you were wrong.
GAIUS
I hope so.
[Sir Pellinor runs Tristan through. Tristan does not fall.]
GWEN
The sword went in, I'm sure of it.
MORGANA
I saw, too.
[Tristan kills Pellinor, crowd groans. Tristan turns to the crowd. Arthur throws
his gauntlet down, Uther tries to stop it.]
ARTHUR
I, Arthur Pendragon, challenge you.
TRISTAN
So be it.
ARTHUR
Single combat. Noon. Tomorrow.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM]
[Uther enters. Arthur is waiting.]
UTHER
How could you be so stupid? I'll revoke the challenge.
ARTHUR
No. The Knight's Code must be upheld. That's what you told me.
UTHER
This is different.
ARTHUR
Once the challenge has been laid down it cannot be rescinded.
UTHER
You are Crown Prince.
ARTHUR
There cannot be one rule for me and one for all the rest.
UTHER
I forbid you to fight.
ARTHUR
You want me to prove that I'm worthy of the throne. I cannot do that by being a
coward.
UTHER
No, Arthur, this will be your death!
ARTHUR
I'm sorry you have so little faith in me, Father.
[Arthur leaves.]
UTHER
Arthur!
--
MERLIN
You were right.
GAIUS
I wish I wasn't.
MERLIN
If Arthur fights that thing, he'll die.
GAIUS
He is Camelot's strongest warrior. If anyone can defeat it, he can.
MERLIN
You said yourself, no mortal weapon can kill it. Which means we have to find a way
to defeat the wraith ourselves.
GAIUS
How do you propose to do that?
MERLIN
If no mortal sword will kill it... then I will.
[Merlin runs to his chamber to fetch his magic book.]
MERLIN
With mortal magic.
GAIUS
Merlin, it's too dangerous.
MERLIN
We don't have a choice.
--
[EXT/INT. TRAINING GROUNDS/COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM – NIGHT]
[Tristan Dubois stands motionless outside. Uther paces the Council Chamber. Gaius
enters and bows.]
GAIUS
Good evening, Sire.
UTHER
Gaius.
GAIUS
There is a matter of great urgency, which I must discuss with you.
UTHER
Then spit it out.
GAIUS
Tristan's tomb is empty. I believe he's been conjured from the dead.
UTHER
How is this possible?
GAIUS
I believe he's a wraith.
UTHER
A spirit?
GAIUS
He has come to take vengeance for Ygraine's death.
UTHER
It was magic that killed her, not I.
GAIUS
Nevertheless, it was you he blamed. You cannot allow Arthur to fight. No weapon
forged by man can kill a wraith. It will stop at nothing till it has accomplished
what it came for. Arthur cannot win, he will die.
UTHER
He will not listen to me.
GAIUS
Then you must tell him who the knight is.
UTHER
No.
GAIUS
You cannot hide the truth forever.
UTHER
I am the King. You will not tell me what I can and cannot do.
GAIUS
That is your choice, Sire. You tell him, or let him go to his death.
UTHER
No one but you or I will ever know the secret of Arthur's birth.
GAIUS
The boy is of age, he should know.
UTHER
Never! You made an oath. I warn you not to break it.
GAIUS
Very well, Sire.
UTHER
Leave me.
--
[EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS – NIGHT]
[Merlin approaches Tristan.]
MERLIN
Cume her fyrbryne.
[Merlin lights Tristan on fire. the fire fades and Tristan remains unscathed.
Tristan looks at Merlin and growls. Merlin runs.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin bursts into the room.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, you know that conversation we had about knocking...
MERLIN
You have to pull out.
ARTHUR
And why is that?
MERLIN
Because he'll kill you.
ARTHUR
Why does everybody think that?
MERLIN
Because they're right! Just pull out. You're the Crown Prince. No one wants to see
you die over some stupid challenge.
ARTHUR
I am not a coward.
MERLIN
I know that. I've stood there and I've watched you overcome every fear you've ever
faced.
ARTHUR
That's what's required of me.
MERLIN
But you are more than that. You're not merely a warrior. You're a prince, a future
king! You've proved your courage, but you must prove your wisdom.
ARTHUR
I'm not backing down.
MERLIN
Please, Arthur, listen to me. This is no ordinary knight. Look at him. He doesn't
eat, he doesn't sleep. He just stands there, in complete silence. Doesn't that tell
you something?
ARTHUR
No one is unbeatable.
MERLIN
If you fight him, you will die.
ARTHUR
I'm not listening to this.
MERLIN
I'm trying to warn you, Arthur.
ARTHUR
And I'm trying to warn YOU, Merlin!
--
[Uther drinks alone. The candles blow out and Uther turns to see Nimueh.]
UTHER
I should've known.
NIMUEH
It is more than I'd hoped for, Uther. Soon Arthur will be slain. You will have sent
him to his death.
UTHER
Haven't you tired of revenge?
NIMUEH
Haven't you? You began this war when you threw me from the court and slaughtered
all of my kind.
UTHER
You brought it on yourselves. You practised evil.
NIMUEH
I was your friend, Uther! You welcomed me here.
UTHER
You betrayed that friendship.
NIMUEH
I did as you asked! I used the magic you so despise to give your barren wife the
son you craved.
UTHER
Don't ever speak of her in that way. She was my heart, my soul. And you took her
from me.
NIMUEH
She died giving birth to your son. It was not my choice. That is the law of magic.
To create a life, there had to be a death. The balance of the world had to be
repaid.
UTHER
You knew it would kill her.
NIMUEH
No, you're wrong. If I had foreseen her death, and the terrible retribution you
would seek... I would never have granted your wish.
UTHER
I wish you hadn't.
NIMUEH
You wish you didn't have a son? Well, your wish will come true tomorrow.
UTHER
I will not let you take him.
NIMUEH
I have watched so many people I love die at your hands, Uther Pendragon. Now it is
your turn.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF RECORDS – NIGHT]
[Merlin searching through old tomes.]
GEOFFREY
How did you get in here?
MERLIN
The door was open.
GEOFFREY
No, I locked it.
MERLIN
Well, someone else must've opened it, then.
GEOFFREY
And you thought you'd come in and help yourself?
MERLIN
I was looking for a book. For Gaius. He thinks the Black Knight is a wraith.
GEOFFREY
Then Arthur is in grave peril.
MERLIN
Which is why I'm here. I need to find a weapon that will kill something that's
already dead.
GEOFFREY
Well, I've read of such things in the ancient chronicles.
MERLIN
Really? What did they say?
GEOFFREY
Well, several fables speak of ancient swords.
MERLIN
That can kill the dead?
GEOFFREY
The swords the fables speak of could destroy anything, alive or dead.
MERLIN
Can you show me one of these fables?
GEOFFREY
Well, let me think. Yes. Mm...
[Geoffrey searches a shelf.]
MERLIN
I'm sort of in a hurry.
GEOFFREY
Yes, you young people always are.
[Geoffrey flips through a book.]
GEOFFREY
This is the Chronicle of Beltain. Now then... Ah, here we are. "Sir Marhaus looked
upon the great sword, begotten in the dragon's breath and found it passing good."
MERLIN
What did you say?
GEOFFREY
"Sir Marhaus..."
MERLIN
No. No, no. No, no. Not about him. The dragon.
GEOFFREY
"The great sword begotten in the dragon's breath...
[Merlin takes off.]
GEOFFREY
...and found it passing good."
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Gwen opens Morgana's door to see Merlin standing outside.]
GWEN
Merlin. What are you doing here?
MERLIN
I've come to ask a favour.
GWEN
Yes?
MERLIN
I'm not sure how to ask it.
GWEN
Ask, Merlin. You know I'd grant you anything. I mean, not anything. Obviously, not
anything. What is it you want?
MERLIN
I've come to ask for a sword. The strongest sword your father's ever made.
GWEN
What for?
MERLIN
To save Arthur.
--
[Arthur stares out the window in his chambers at Tristan Dubois. Morgana enters.]
MORGANA
I don't want you to fight tomorrow.
ARTHUR (snort)
You're worried about me?
MORGANA
I don't know what it is. Please, I'm begging you.
ARTHUR
I have to do this. It's my duty.
MORGANA
I understand.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Uther enters.]
UTHER
I'm sorry. You knew that one day this business would come back to haunt me.
GAIUS
Not quite so literally.
UTHER
I should've listened to you. You said that no good would come of using witchcraft
at Arthur's birth.
GAIUS
You wanted an heir. You thought it was the only way.
UTHER
Nimueh told me there would be a price to pay.
GAIUS
You weren't to know that that price would be Ygraine's life.
UTHER
I cannot let Arthur die.
GAIUS
Then you must stop the fight.
UTHER
No, I will take his place.
GAIUS
Do you know what you're saying?
UTHER
Ygraine gave up her life for him. So must I.
GAIUS
Uther...
UTHER
I have no other choice.
GAIUS
There must be another way.
UTHER
My death will stop the wraith and Arthur will live. But it means you are the only
person left who knows the truth about Arthur's birth. I want you to swear to me
that you will keep your oath.
GAIUS
I will take it to my grave.
UTHER
You have always been a good friend, despite my temper.
GAIUS
I always thought that would be the death of you.
UTHER
I have one other favour to ask.
--
[INT. GWEN’S HOUSE – NIGHT]
[Gwen pulls a sword out from under her father's bed.]
GWEN
My father's been saving this. He's always said it was the best sword he's ever
made.
MERLIN
It's perfect.
GWEN
He'll kill me if he finds I've taken it.
MERLIN
He'll understand. You did it for Arthur.
GWEN
I knew you were proud of him really.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON’S CAVE – NIGHT]
[Merlin takes the sword to the Dragon's Cave.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin!
MERLIN
Do you know why I'm here?
KILGHARRAH
It may surprise you, Merlin, but my knowledge of your life is not universal.
MERLIN
It's to do with Arthur. His life's in danger. He will die, unless I can make a
weapon that will kill the dead.
KILGHARRAH
So what do you come to ask of me?
[Merlin floats the sword in front of Kilgharrah.]
MERLIN
Will you burnish it, to save Arthur?
KILGHARRAH
The dead do not return without reason. Who has he come for?
MERLIN
Uther.
KILGHARRAH
Then let him take his vengeance and the wraith will die without my aid.
MERLIN
But it's Arthur who's going to fight him. You have to save him.
KILGHARRAH
That is your destiny, young warlock, not mine.
MERLIN
But if Arthur fights the wraith and dies, Camelot will have no heir. I will have no
destiny.
KILGHARRAH
A weapon forged with my assistance will have great power.
MERLIN
I know.
KILGHARRAH
You do not know. You can only guess. You have not seen what I have seen. If you
had, perhaps you would not ask this of me.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
KILGHARRAH
In the wrong hands, this sword could do great evil. It must be wielded by Arthur
and him alone.
MERLIN
I understand.
KILGHARRAH
You must do more than understand. You must promise.
MERLIN
I promise.
[Kilgharrah breathes fire on the sword.]
KILGHARRAH
Heed my words. The sword was forged for Arthur, and him alone.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Uther stares out his window at Tristan.
--
[Gaius knocks on Arthur's door.]
GAIUS
I've brought you something that might help you to sleep.
[Gaius enters.]
ARTHUR
I'm fine. I don't need it.
GAIUS
Here. It'll relax you, take the edge off your nerves.
[Arthur drinks it.]
ARTHUR
I wouldn't drink it for pleasure.
GAIUS
Why don't you sit down for a moment?
ARTHUR
Mind you, if you...forget about the taste, the, er, after-effect is quite
pleasurable.
GAIUS
Just lie back.
[Arthur passes out on the bed. Gaius leaves the room and lock's the door.]
--
[Tristan Dubois waits for Arthur in the arena the next morning.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARMOURY – DAY]
[Merlin picks up Excalibur. Uther enters.]
UTHER
That's a fine blade.
MERLIN
It's for Arthur.
UTHER
He won't be needing it today. I will be taking Arthur's place.
MERLIN
But Sire...
UTHER
Prepare me for battle.
MERLIN
Arthur should be the one that fights today.
UTHER
The grievance was with me, the fight is mine.
MERLIN
I don't have your armour.
UTHER
That'll do. It's likely to make little difference.
MERLIN
Erm, I--I'll get you your sword.
UTHER
This will be fine.
MERLIN
No, Sire. You don't understand. Erm, That one was made specifically for Arthur.
UTHER
Who made it?
MERLIN
Erm, er, Tom, the blacksmith.
UTHER
It's worthy of a King.
MERLIN
You would be better off with a sword you trusted.
UTHER
No. It has almost perfect balance. Tom's not the Royal Swordsmith. I'm surprised
Arthur went to him.
MERLIN
Oh, that was me. I felt he needed a better sword.
UTHER
You show him the most extraordinary loyalty.
MERLIN
That is my job, Sire.
UTHER
But beyond the line of duty.
MERLIN
Well... You could say...that there is a bond between us.
UTHER
I'm glad. Look after him.
--
[EXT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS - DAY]
[Uther enters the arena. the crowd murmurs in surprise.]
UTHER
You can have what you came for. The father, not the son.
[A guard removes Uther's cape. Arthur sleeps in his chambers. Yhe fight begins.
Arthur wakes in his bed to the sound of swords clashing. Arthur hears the sound and
goes to the window. The fight continues. Arthur tries to get out of his room, but
it's still locked. The fight continues. Arthur struggles against the door. Uther
knocks off Tristan's helmet to reveal the mummified face. Nimueh watches in the
crowd. Uther loses his sword. Tristan has him on the ground, but his sword gets
stuck in Uther's shield. Uther kicks his shield at Tristan, grabs Excalibur and
runs him through. Tristan explodes. Nimueh leaves angrily. Uther gets up and
removes his helm and the crowd cheers. Uther tosses Excalibur on the ground.]
--
[Gaius tends Uther’s wounds.]
UTHER
I thought you said a wraith couldn't be killed.
GAIUS
Yes, it was remarkable.
[Gaius notices Excalibur on the table.]
GAIUS
Is that a new sword, Sire?
UTHER
It's the best I've ever fought with.
GAIUS
May I have a look?
UTHER
I was intrigued by those markings.
GAIUS
On one side it says, "Take me up," and on the other, "Cast me away."
UTHER
GAIUS
May I ask who made it, Sire?
UTHER
Merlin gave it to me. It was forged for Arthur.
[Arthur enters.]
GAIUS
Well, that should heal pretty quickly. I'll re-dress it tomorrow.
UTHER
Thank you, Gaius. Thank you for everything.
ARTHUR
You had Gaius drug me! I was meant to fight him!
UTHER
No, you weren't.
ARTHUR
But the Knight's Code is very clea...
UTHER
Be damned! I believed you would die. And that was a risk I could not take. You are
too precious to me. You mean more to me than anything I know, more than this entire
kingdom, and certainly more than my own life.
ARTHUR
I... always thought that...
UTHER
What?
ARTHUR
That...I was a big disappointment to you.
UTHER
Well, that is my fault, and not yours. You are my only son. And I wouldn't wish for
another.
ARTHUR
I heard you fought pretty well.
UTHER
Thanks.
ARTHUR
You should join us for training. Sort out your footwork.
UTHER
I'll show you footwork.
[Uther gets up and playfully kicks Arthur.]
--
[Gaius staring at Merlin while they eat.]
GAIUS
You know why I'm looking at you.
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
Uther told me you provided him with his sword today.
MERLIN
It must have been a very powerful blade to slay the dead.
GAIUS
Did you enchant it?
MERLIN
No. I didn't.
GAIUS
Who did then?
MERLIN
Wasn't me.
GAIUS
Shame. It saved the King's life, I'd have been very proud of you.
MERLIN
Well...
GAIUS
Never mind.
[Gaius gives Merlin a knowing smile.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[The Great Dragon calls to Merlin in his sleep.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin! Merlin...Merlin!
--
[Merlin goes down the Tunnel Corridor to the Dragon's Cave.]
KILGHARRAH
So, does Arthur live?
MERLIN
Yes, the sword worked. It was incredible, amazing.
KILGHARRAH
As I promised.
MERLIN
But...
KILGHARRAH
Yes?
MERLIN
Things didn't quite go according to plan. I mean they did, except... It wasn't
Arthur who wielded the sword. It was Uther.
KILGHARRAH
NO! *ROARS*
MERLIN
I tried, but he just took it!
KILGHARRAH
ARGH!
MERLIN
Uther's the King. I couldn't stop him!
KILGHARRAH
The sword was born of the old magic. You have no idea of its power. In the hands of
Uther, it will bring only evil.
MERLIN
I'll get it back.
KILGHARRAH
You have betrayed me. You are not ready to be trusted.
MERLIN
I'll bring it to you. You can destroy it.
KILGHARRAH
What is made cannot be unmade.
MERLIN
So what do you want me to do?
KILGHARRAH
Take the sword far from here and place it where no mortal man can ever find it.
--
[Merlin goes to the armoury and takes Excalibur. he exits Camelot, walks to the
Lake of Avalon, and throws the sword into the lake.]
---------------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:10
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BBC Merlin: 1x10 The Moment of Truth
KILGHARRAH
--
[EXT. EALDOR – DAY]
[The people of Ealdor go about their day, but scatter when bandits come riding
through.]
KANEN
Search the place! Find him!
[Bandits bring Matthew to Kanen with his arms full of food.]
KANEN
It's harvest time.
[Bandits hand him a couple of the bags Matthew was carrying.]
KANEN
What's this? Where's the rest of it?
MATTHEW
I only kept back what we need to survive.
KANEN
Survive? I'll be back in one week, farmer, and I want to see all of it.
HUNITH
You can't take our food! Our children will starve! I won't let you do this!
[Hunith tries to grab the bags that Kanen took.]
HUNITH
You're not taking any of it!
[Kanen smacks Hunith, who falls to the ground.]
VILLAGER
Hunith!
[A villager runs to help Hunith; Kanen shoots him with a crossbow.]
KANEN
I will give you a week. Don't you dare disappoint me. I'll see you later,
sweetheart.
[The bandits ride off. Matthew helps Hunith get up.]
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN – DAY]
[Hunith walks into Camelot. Merlin sees her as he's collecting water from the
well.]
MERLIN
Mother?
HUNITH
Merlin!
[She goes to hug him, but he notices her bruise.]
MERLIN
What happened? Who did this to you?!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM – DAY]
[Hunith stands before Uther and the court.]
HUNITH
The winters are harsh in Ealdor, and there are many children. Some of them just
won't be strong enough to survive. We barely have enough food as it is, and if
Kanen takes our harvest, our children won't live to see another summer. Please, we
need your help.
UTHER
Ealdor's in Cenred's kingdom. Your safety is his responsibility.
HUNITH
We've appealed to our King, but he cares little for the outlying regions. You're
our only hope.
UTHER
I have the deepest sympathy for you and would have this barbarian wiped off the
face of the earth.
HUNITH
You'll help us?
UTHER
I wish I could.
ARTHUR
Surely we can spare a few men?
UTHER
Resources are not the problem.
MORGANA
Then what is?
UTHER
Ealdor lies beyond the Ridge of Essetir. For an army of Camelot to enter it would
be an act of war.
[Hunith drops to her knees.]
HUNITH
I know you're a good king, a caring man. I'm begging you, help us, please.
UTHER
The accord we've struck with Cenred was years in the making. I cannot risk hundreds
of lives for the sake of one village. I'm afraid Camelot cannot help.
[Morgana glares at Uther and escorts Hunith out.]
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS – DAY]
[Arthur looks out over Camelot. Merlin joins him.]
ARTHUR
I'm sorry. If it were up to me, we'd be on our way there now.
MERLIN
You tried. And thank you for getting an audience with the King.
ARTHUR
I wish that Camelot was able to help people regardless of how far away they lived.
MERLIN
I'm going back to Ealdor.
ARTHUR
Of course.
MERLIN
It's been an honour serving you.
ARTHUR
You'll be coming back.
MERLIN
Well, she's my mother. I have got to look after her before anyone else. You
understand?
ARTHUR
I'd do exactly the same. Well, you've been terrible. Really, I mean it. The worst
servant I've ever had.
MERLIN
Thank you, Sire.
ARTHUR
Merlin. Good luck.
--
[INT. GWEN’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Gwen helps Merlin pack for his trip.]
GWEN
Here.
[Gwen hands Merlin a sword. He starts to reach for the blade and she sucks in her
breath. Merlin grabs the hilt.]
GWEN
Tell me how it feels?
MERLIN
Yeah. Yeah that feel...that feels really good. It's very, erm, you know...swordy.
[Gwen raises her eyebrows.]
GWEN
I've packed some armour for you.
MERLIN
I won't be able to carry all that.
[Morgana enters dressed in trousers and a corseted tunic.]
MORGANA
You won't have to. We're coming with you.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
GWEN
You're going to need all the help you can get. I can mend armour and sharpen
swords.
MORGANA
And I know how to fight.
MERLIN
But y-y- you can't. I mean, why would you?
GWEN
If it was the other way around, you'd help us. You already have. You saved my life.
MERLIN
And you helped me get the druid boy out of Camelot. We owe it to you. Both of us.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
GAIUS
You got the food I prepared for you?
MERLIN
Yes.
GAIUS
Be careful with the wine. You know what you're like. One whiff of a barmaid's apron
and you're singing like a sailor.
MERLIN
I'll be fine.
GAIUS
Are you sure you don't want an extra blanket?
MERLIN
It's okay, really. I'll be alright.
GAIUS
Well, make sure you are. Do whatever it takes.
[Gaius hugs Merlin.]
--
[EXT. ROAD – DAY]
[Merlin, Morgana, Gwen, and Hunith ride for Ealdor.]
--
[EXT. WOODS, CAMP – NIGHT]
[At night, Merlin sits at the campfire with his mother, the others asleep.]
HUNITH
They shouldn't be here. Especially the Lady Morgana. Isn't she the King's ward?
MERLIN
Not that you'd know it. She's the only person I know who isn't frightened of him.
HUNITH
It won't make any difference to Kanen that they're women.
MERLIN
I know. But I couldn't talk them out of coming.
[Merlin looks at the healing bruise on his mother's face.]
MERLIN
I want to make him pay for what he did to you.
HUNITH
Promise me you'll be careful. No one can find out about you.
MERLIN
They won't. They never do.
HUNITH
Get some rest.
[Hunith goes to lay down. Merlin takes a burning stick from the fire and blows some
flecks into the air.]
MERLIN
Draca.
[The glowing flecks take the shape of the Pendragon dragon.]
--
[EXT. WOODS – NIGHT]
[Merlin shifts in his sleep and hears horse in the woods. He draws his sword and
goes searching through the dark. Someone puts a sword against his back.]
ARTHUR
I'd ask you for money, but I know you don't have any.
MERLIN
Arthur!
[Merlin whips around and Arthur ducks as the sword swings near his head.]
ARTHUR
Put the word down, Merlin. You look ridiculous.
[Arthur takes Merlin's sword and walks toward their camp.]
--
[EXT. WOODS, CAMP – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin sit at the newly stoked campfire.]
ARTHUR
How much further is it?
MERLIN
Er, maybe a few hours.
ARTHUR
How many men does Kanen have?
MERLIN
Erm, I'm not sure. I think, from what my mother said, maybe as many as forty.
ARTHUR
You should get some rest. It's going to be a long day tomorrow.
MERLIN
Thank you. Erm, I know you didn't have to come.
ARTHUR
Get some sleep.
--
[EXT. ROAD – DAY]
[Arthur, Merlin, Morgana, Gwen, and Hunith ride for Ealdor.]
--
[Bandits burst into the village looking for the rest of the food.]
MATTHEW
Wait.
BANDIT
What's in here? What's there?
KANEN
If you're hiding anything from me...
[Merlin's party continues to ride. Kanen's men discover a hidden stash.]
BANDIT
Kanen!
[The bandit hold up bags of food. A village woman touches a young girl on the
shoulder.]
VILLAGE WOMAN
Stay there. Stay there.
MATTHEW
Please, we have to eat.
KANEN
Oh.
MATTHEW
And re-sow the fields for next year! We only kept the bare minimum! Everything else
you can take.
KANEN
That sounds fair.
[Kanen strikes Matthew, and raises his axe for a final blow.]
MATTHEW
No!
[Arthur throws a sword into the post behind Kanen, rides up, dismounts, fights the
bandits. Merlin rides up and dismounts too.]
KANEN
Kill them!
[Merlin fights a bandit. girls arrive and dismount. Merlin caught against a door in
his sword fight.]
MERLIN
Hætende.
[The bandit's sword heats up. Will watches him. Bandit drops sword. Merlin kills
him. bandit attacks Arthur from behind, but Morgana parries and kills him.]
MORGANA
Bring back memories of when I used to beat you?
ARTHUR
That never happened.
[Kanen mounts.]
KANEN
You'll pay for this with your lives! All of you!
WILL
You still up to the same old magic tricks again? Look, I thought I told you I
didn't want your kind around here?
[Will smiles and Merlin grins back.]
MERLIN
I miss you, too, Will.
[They hug.]
MERLIN
It's good to see you again.
WILL
How've you been? I, er, hear you're skivvying for some prince.
MERLIN
No. I wouldn't say I'm a skivvy.
ARTHUR
Merlin! Gather the villagers, I need to talk to them.
MERLIN
Yeah, in a minute. I'm just talking...
ARTHUR
Now, Merlin. There isn't much time.
MERLIN
Yes, Sire.
[Arthur addresses the villagers.]

ARTHUR
I know Kanen's kind. He'll be back. And when he is, you must be ready for him.
First of all, we have to prepare for...
WILL
Am I the only one wondering who the hell this is?
ARTHUR
I'm Prince Arthur of Camelot.
WILL (scoff)
Yeah, and, er, I'm Prince William of Ealdor.
HUNITH
Keep quiet. He's here to help us.
WILL
But he's made things worse. Kanen will be back, and when he is, he'll be looking
for revenge. You've just signed our death warrants.
HUNITH
He saved Matthew's life!
ARTHUR
That's alright, Hunith. This is his village. What would you have us do?
WILL
We can't fight against Kanen. He has too many men.
ARTHUR
So what's the alternative?
WILL
Give him what he wants.
[The villagers shake their heads.]
ARTHUR
Then what? Those of you who don't starve to death will face him again next harvest!
And the harvest after that.
WILL
We'll manage. We'll survive.
VILLAGERS
How?
ARTHUR
The only way he can be stopped is if you stand up to him.
WILL
No. You just want the honour and glory of battle! That's what drives men like you!
Look, if you want to fight, then go home and risk the lives of your own people, not
ours!
MERLIN
Will.
HUNITH
I'll follow you. If I'm to die, then I want to go out fighting.
MATTHEW
That goes for me, too.
VILLAGE MAN
You can count me in.
VILLAGE WOMAN
I'm in.
VILLAGER
Me too!
VILLAGERS
Yeah!
VILLAGE MAN
You can count me in!
--
[INT. EALDOR, WILL’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Merlin approaches Will.]
MERLIN
He knows what he's doing. You've got to trust him. Look, when I first met Arthur, I
was exactly like you. I hated him. I thought he was pompous and arrogant.
[Will rights a stand that has a chainmail shirt and tabard on it.]
WILL
Well, nothing's changed there, then.
MERLIN
But, in time, I came to respect him for what he stands for, what he does.
WILL
Yeah, I know what he stands for: princes, kings, all men like him.
MERLIN
Will, don't bring what happened to your father into this.
WILL
I'm not. Why are you defending him so much? You're just his servant.
MERLIN
He's also my friend.
WILL
Friends don't lord it over one another.
MERLIN
He isn't like that.
WILL
Really? Well, let's wait until the fighting begins and see who he sends in to die
first. I guarantee you, it won't be him.
MERLIN
I trust Arthur with my life.
WILL
Is that so? So he knows your secret, then? Look, face it, Merlin You're living a
lie. Just like you were here. You're Arthur's servant, nothing more. Otherwise
you'd tell him the truth.
--
[INT. EALDOR, HUNITH’S HOUSE – NIGHT]
[The Camelot party sleeps.]
ARTHUR
Have you always slept on the floor?
MERLIN
Yeah. The bed I've got in Camelot's luxury by comparison.
ARTHUR
Must've been hard.
MERLIN
Mmm. It's like rock.
ARTHUR
I didn't mean the ground. I meant, for you. It must've been difficult.
MERLIN
Mmm. Not really. I didn't know any different. Life's simple out here. You eat what
you grow and everyone pitches in together. As long as you've got food on the table
and a roof over your head, you're happy.
ARTHUR
Sounds...nice.
MERLIN
You'd hate it.
ARTHUR
No doubt. Why'd you leave?
MERLIN
Things just...changed.
ARTHUR
How? Come on, stop pretending to be interesting. Tell me.
MERLIN
I just didn't fit in anymore. I wanted to find somewhere that I did.
ARTHUR
Had any luck?
MERLIN
I'm not sure yet.
ARTHUR
We'll start training the men tomorrow. It's gonna be a long day. Get the candle.
--
[INT. EALDOR, HUNITH’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Merlin helps Arthur put his jacket on the next morning.]
MORGANA
You still not learned how to dress yourself?
ARTHUR
You don't have a dog and fetch the stick yourself. No offense, Merlin.
MERLIN
None taken.
HUNITH
Prince Arthur, you didn't finish your breakfast.
ARTHUR
Didn't I?
MORGANA
Come on, eat up.
[Arthur pretends to eat it.]
ARTHUR
Mmmmm.
[Arthur hands the bowl off to Gwen.]
ARTHUR
Right. Let's get going. We need wood, and lots of it.
MERLIN
Of course.
[Gwen finished Arthur's breakfast and hands the bowl to Hunith.]
GWEN
Arthur said it was lovely.
HUNITH
He must care for you a great deal.
MERLIN
Arthur'd do the same for any village. That's just the way he is.
HUNITH
It's more than that. He's here for you.
MERLIN
I'm just his servant.
HUNITH
Give him more credit than that. He likes you.
MERLIN
That's because he doesn't know me. And if he did, I'd probably be dead by now.
HUNITH
You don't really believe that, do you?
--
[Merlin walks toward the woods with an axe.]
WILL
Merlin! Where are you going with that thing?
MERLIN
What does it look like? We need wood.
WILL
We both know that you don't need an axe to fell a tree.
MERLIN
And I remember the trouble it got me into. I nearly flattened Old Man Simmons.
WILL
Ha. Yeah, well, he deserved it, stupid old crow.
MERLIN
Mmm. He never did like me anyway.
WILL
Well, even less after that.
MERLIN (chuckles)
Why are you being like this?
WILL
You know why. Why did you leave?
MERLIN
It wasn't what I wanted. My mother was worried. When she found out you knew, she
was so angry.
WILL
I wouldn't've told anyone.
MERLIN
Well, I know you wouldn't.
WILL
You'd be able to defeat Kanen on your own, wouldn't you?
MERLIN
I'm not sure. Maybe.
WILL
Well, so what's stopping you? So what if Arthur finds out?
MERLIN
I don't expect you to understand.
WILL
Try me.
MERLIN
One day Arthur will be a great king, but he needs my help. And if anyone ever found
out about my powers, I'd have to leave Camelot for good.
WILL
Are you telling me you'd rather keep your magic a secret for Arthur's sake than use
it to protect your friends and family?
--
[Arthur trains the village men.]
ARTHUR
I won't be able to teach you everything there is to know about fighting with a
sword, but you can learn the basics: the stance, how to parry a blow, how to land
your own. On my count! One! Two! Three! Four! Now, you may have to watch for the
feint. So, keep your feet moving, and only stay in range long enough to land your
blow. And again. One! Two! Three! Four!
[Morgana and Gwen watch the training as they sharpen swords.]
ARTHUR
One! Two! Three! Four!
MORGANA
There is no way they're going to be able to hold Kanen off.
GWEN
Men aren't the only ones who can fight.
ARTHUR
Again. One! Two! Three! Matthew. I want you to organise sentry duty to keep an eye
out for Kanen and his men.
MATTHEW
Be glad to.
ARTHUR
If there's any sign of attack, I want you to ride straight back here. I don't want
you fighting all on your own.
MATTHEW
Ha-ha. (nods)
--
[Arthur draws water from the well to drink.]
MORGANA
Looks like the battle's already fought and lost.
ARTHUR
They'll toughen up.
GWEN
They need to.
ARTHUR
How are we doing for weapons?
MORGANA
There isn't much, but we should be able to scrape together what you need.
GWEN
It's not the weapons that worry us. It's having enough people to use them. We think
the women should be allowed to fight.
MORGANA
You haven't enough men. If they were trained soldiers, maybe you'd stand a chance,
but they're not.
ARTHUR
It's too dangerous.
[Arthur walks towards the resting men.]
ARTHUR
Right! Back on your feet! Come on, let's go!
--
[The Camelot party sleeps.]
GWEN
We don't stand a chance.
MORGANA
Arthur can't see that. He's too stubborn.
[Merlin wakes.]
GWEN
Why do you think he came here?
MORGANA
The same reason we did: Merlin. Arthur may act like he doesn't care, but he
wouldn't be here if he didn't.
--
[INT/EXT. EALDOR, COMMON BUILDING – DAY]
[Arthur speaks to the men.]
ARTHUR
We're not going to be able to defend Ealdor with sword and sinew alone. We're going
to need a plan. We need to find some way of limiting their mobility and drawing
them into a trap. If we fight them on their terms, then...
[A village woman screams. Arthur and the men rush outside to investigate. Matthew
is slung over a horse.]
ARTHUR
Get him down from there!
[The village men take Matthew down as villagers gather around. Arthur reads the
note that's on the arrow in his back.]
MERLIN
What does it say?
ARTHUR
"Make the most of this day, it will be your last."
FIANCÉ
Matthew! No! No! No!
WILL
You did this! Look what you've done! You've killed him!
MERLIN
It wasn't his fault.
WILL
If he hadn't been strutting around, treating us like his own personal army, this
would never have happened!
ARTHUR
These men are brave enough to fight for what they believe in, even if you aren't!
WILL
You're sending them to their graves! You killed one man. How many more need to die
before you realise this a battle that can't be won? When Kanen comes, you haven't
got a chance. You're gonna be slaughtered.
--
[Merlin follows Will into Will's house.]
WILL
Don't bother, Merlin. I'm not interested.
MERLIN
You should be. Because tomorrow Kanen attacks, and whether you like it or not,
we'll have to fight.
WILL
Not if I'm not here.
MERLIN
Well, that's up to you, but the rest of us are staying. Join us, Will! This isn't
about Arthur, this is about your friends. Are you really going to abandon them?
WILL
What, like you did?
MERLIN
I'm here now.
WILL
Yeah. Yeah, you are. And you could end this. If you used your magic, then no one
else would have to die.
MERLIN
You know I can't.
WILL
Can't or won't? I'm not the one abandoning these people, Merlin. You are.
--
[Arthur sharpens his sword. Merlin sits down next to him.]
MERLIN
William's father was killed fighting for King Cenred, so he doesn't trust anyone of
nobility.
ARTHUR
Do you think the villagers believed him?
MERLIN
No. He's always been a troublemaker. They're used to ignoring him.
ARTHUR
And if he's right?
MERLIN
He isn't.
[Hunith overhears them from inside her house.]
ARTHUR
I'm treating these men like soldiers, and they're not. You've seen them fight.
They...they haven't got a clue! You need to tell them all to leave the village
before Kanen returns.
MERLIN
No, we're going to stay. We're going to fight, and we're going to win.
ARTHUR
Merlin, it can't be done. The odds are too great.
MERLIN
It can. We're going to make Kanen rue the day he ever came to this village. All you
need to do is get the men ready for battle, and the rest will take care of itself.
ARTHUR
How?
MERLIN
You've just got to believe in them. Because if you don't, they'll sense it, and the
battle'll be lost before it's even begun.
--
[INT. EALDOR, COMMON BUILDING – NIGHT]
[Arthur addressesthe villagers.]
ARTHUR
Tomorrow morning, the women and children should gather what belongings they can
carry and go to the woods.
GWEN
We're not going anywhere!
ARTHUR
I know you want to help. The women can't stay here. It's too dangerous.
GWEN
The women have as much right to fight for their lives as the men do!
ARTHUR
But none of you know how to fight.
GWEN
The more of us there are, the better chance we stand!
[The women step forward.]
ARTHUR
This is your home. If you want to fight to defend it, that's your choice. I'd be
honoured to stand alongside you. Kanen attacks tomorrow. Kanen's brutal. He fights
only to kill, which is why he will never defeat us. Look around. In this circle,
we're all equals. You're not fighting because someone's ordering you to, you're
fighting for so much more than that. You fight for your homes. You fight for your
family. You fight for your friends. You fight for the right to grow crops in peace.
And if you fall, you fall fighting for the noblest of causes: fighting for your
very right to survive! And when you're old and grey, you'll look back on this day,
and you'll know you earned the right to live every day in between! So you fight!
For your family! For your friends! For Ealdor!
[The villagers stand with swords raised.]
VILLAGERS & MERLIN

For Ealdor! Ealdor! Ealdor! Ealdor! Ealdor! Ealdor! Ealdor!
--
[Hunith sits pensively in her home. Merlin enters and hangs up his jacket.]
HUNITH
Come here.
[Merlin sits down beside her and she strokes his face.]
HUNITH
I do love you, my boy.
MERLIN
What's wrong?
HUNITH
I should never have gone to Camelot. I've ruined everything for you.
MERLIN
You haven't. Why would you say that?
HUNITH
I know what you're planning to do.
MERLIN (sigh)
If it comes to a choice between saving people's lives and revealing who I really
am, *shrugs* there is no choice.
HUNITH
You can't let Arthur know about your gift.
MERLIN
Why not? Maybe it's meant to be this way. And if he doesn't accept me for who I
really am, then he's not the friend I hoped he was.
--
[EXT. WOODS – DAY]
[Arthur stands watch. Gwen brings him a bowl of Hunith's home cooking.]
GWEN
Arthur, Hunith made you some food.
[Gwen hands him the bowl.]
ARTHUR
Thanks.
[Gwen turns to leave.]
ARTHUR (mutters)
I think.
[Gwen stops and turns back around.]
GWEN
Food is scarce for these people, you shouldn't turn your nose up at it!
[Arthur stares at her.]
GWEN
Oh, no. I--I shouldn't've spoken to you like that. I'm sorry.
ARTHUR
Gwen.
[Gwen starts leaving.]
GWEN
I'm sorry, I don't know what I was thinking. It won't happen again.
ARTHUR
Guinevere!
[Gwen turns to face him.]
ARTHUR
Thank you. You're right. And you were right to speak up. I should've listened to
you and Morgana. (mutters) We're going to need all the help we can get.
GWEN
We'll be fine.
ARTHUR
How can you be so sure?
GWEN
Because I have faith in you. I mean, we all do.
ARTHUR
Thank you.
--
[Merlin starts to help Arthur with his armour.]
ARTHUR
No, not today.
MERLIN
Put on your own.
[They dress for battle. Merlin struggles with the buckle on one of his bracers.
Arthur helps him out.]
ARTHUR
You ready?
MERLIN
My throat's dry.
ARTHUR
Me too.
[Arthur hold out his hand and Merlin shakes it.]
ARTHUR
It's been an honour.
MERLIN
Whatever happens out there today, please don't think any differently of me.
ARTHUR
I won't. It's alright to be scared, Merlin.
MERLIN
That's not what I meant.
ARTHUR
What is it? If you've got something to say, now's the time to say it.
MORGANA
Arthur. They've crossed the river.
--
[Arthur goes down the line of villagers, shaking hands.]
ARTHUR
You ready?
VILLAGER
Ready.
ARTHUR
For Ealdor.
[He reaches Gwen and shakes her hand.]
ARTHUR
Are you frightened?
GWEN
Not in the slightest.
[Gwen, Arthur, and Merlin take their hiding positions. Kanen and his men ride out
of the woods and into the village.]
ARTHUR
Hold. No one moves until they give the signal.
[Kanen and his men stop and look around the empty village.]
ARTHUR
Hold.
KANEN
Come out, come out wherever you are.
GWEN
Now, pull!
[Gwen and a villager pull up a hidden gate, trapping the riders inside. Morgana
tries to light a fire with flint.]
ARTHUR
Now, Morgana. What are you waiting for? Something's gone wrong.
[Merlin rushes off.]
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Kanen spots Merlin running.]
KANEN
There's one. Get him!
[Merlin dodges the arrow.]
KANEN
Kill him!
[Merlin dodges again and reaches Morgana, still desperately trying to light a
fire.]
MERLIN
Give me the flint.
[Morgana hands them over and Merlin pretends to use them.]
MERLIN
Baerne.
[Merlin lights a fire and a prepared line flames up, trapping the riders.]
KANEN
Come back! Don't run away!
[Kanen's men ride back into the village.]
ARTHUR
Now!
[The villagers give a battle cry as they spring out of hiding to fight. A rider
comes up behind Merlin and Will jumps off a roof in his father's armour to unhorse
the rider.]
MERLIN
I didn't think you were coming.
WILL
Neither did I.
[Merlin and Will fight back to back. The villagers start losing. Merlin and Will
stop to assess the situation.]
WILL
There's too many of them.
MERLIN
Not for me there isn't. Cume thoden.
[Merlin conjures a windstorm, Arthur sees. the villagers start winning and the
remaining bandits flee. Gwen and Morgana hug. Kanen marches out to face Arthur.]
KANEN
Pendragon!
[Arthur fights Kanen and wins, running him through. then he marches angrily towards
Merlin and Will.]
ARTHUR
Who did that?
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Wind like that doesn't just appear from nowhere. I know magic when I see it. One of
you made that happen.
MERLIN
Arthur...
[Kanen picks up a crossbow and aims it at Arthur.]
WILL
Look out!
[Will pushes Arthur out of the way and gets hit himself. Kanen dies.]
MERLIN
Will!
ARTHUR
You just saved my life.
WILL
Yeah. Don't know what I was thinking.
ARTHUR
Come on! Get him inside!
--
[Merlin, Arthur, and a couple village men carry Will inside.]
WILL
That's twice I've saved you.
ARTHUR
Twice?
WILL
Yeah, it was me. I'm the one that used the magic.
MERLIN
Will, don't.
[Arthur looks at Merlin.]
WILL
It's alright, Merlin. I won't be alive long enough for anyone to do anything to me.
I did it. I saw how desperate things were becoming and I had to do something.
ARTHUR
You're a sorcerer?
WILL
Yeah. What are you gonna do? Kill me?
ARTHUR
No. Of course not. Do what you can for him.
[Merlin nods. Arthur puts his hand on Will's shoulder and then leads the women
out.]
WILL
I was right about him. I told you he was going to get me killed.
MERLIN
You're not going to die.
WILL
You're a good man, Merlin. A great man. And one day, you're going to be servant to
a great king. Now you can still make that happen.
MERLIN
Thanks to you.
WILL
This place has been boring without you. It was good to see you again.
MERLIN
Yeah, you too.
WILL
Merlin. Merlin, I'm scared.
MERLIN
Don't be. It's going to be alright.
WILL
Merlin...*dies*
[The villagers stand at Will's funeral pyre.]
ARTHUR
I'm sorry. I know he was a close friend.
MERLIN
He still is.
ARTHUR
You knew he was a sorcerer, didn't you? That's what you were going to tell me?
MERLIN
Yes. It was.
ARTHUR
You know how dangerous magic is. You shouldn't've kept this from me, Merlin.
[Arthur walks over to Morgana and Gwen. Hunith walks over to Merlin.]
HUNITH
You better be going.
MERLIN
I don't have to go.
HUNITH
Yes, you do.
MERLIN
If anything were to happen to you...
HUNITH
I know where to find you. You have to go, Merlin. You belong at Arthur's side. I've
seen how much he needs you. How much you need him. You're like two sides of the
same coin.
MERLIN
I've heard someone say that about us before. I'm going to miss you.
[Merlin hugs his mum.]
HUNITH
I'm going to miss you , too. When you left, you were just a boy. Now look at you.
I'm so proud of you.
[Gwen, Morgana, Arthur, and Merlin ride for Camelot.]
HUNITH (voiceover)
When the time is right, the truth will be known. Until then, you must keep your
talents hidden. It's better for everyone.
---------------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:11

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BBC Merlin: 1x11 The Labyrinth of Gedref
KILGHARRAH
--
[EXT. FOREST – DAY]
[Arthur's hunting party in the woods, armed with crossbows. Arthur sends two of his
knights around another way.]
ARTHUR (whisper)
Merlin.
MERLIN
What is it?
ARTHUR
I don't know. We'll surround it. I want you to go in there and flush it out.
MERLIN
You want me to go in there? You just said you don't know what it is. It could be
dangerous.
ARTHUR
Let's hope so. Now go.
[Merlin sneaks through the woods and picks up a large stick. Merlin sees a unicorn
and drops the stick. Merlin walks up to it and hears the hunters coming.]
MERLIN
Go. Go! Please, go. Shh. They're gonna kill you. Please, go! Arthur, no!
[Arthur shoots the unicorn. Merlin goes to it cries as he strokes its head while it
dies.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry. Sorry.
ARTHUR
Ha-ha! A unicorn!
MERLIN
What have you done?
ARTHUR
Don't be such a girl, Merlin.
[Merlin sees a white cloaked man, Anhora, behind Arthur in the woods.]
ARTHUR
What are you looking at?
[Arthur and the other two knights turn around, but the man is gone.]
--
[Arthur and his knights enter, Merlin carries the unicorn's horn on a pillow.]
ARTHUR
Father! A unicorn's horn to grace the walls of Camelot.
UTHER
Magnificent. It's the first one I've seen.
[Uther takes the horn.]
UTHER
Gaius, look at this.
GAIUS
It is very impressive, My Lord.
UTHER
What is it, Gaius? Speak your mind.
GAIUS
Unicorns are rare and mystical creatures. There is a legend that says that bad
fortune will come to anyone who slays one.
UTHER
Nonsense. We will be the envy of every kingdom.
ARTHUR
I'm pleased you like it.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – DAY]
[Merlin and Gaius walk through the Square.]
MERLIN
I don't understand how Arthur can have taken any pleasure from killing the unicorn.
GAIUS
Arthur is a hunter. It's in his blood. Whereas you are something entirely
different.
MERLIN
It was the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. I wish you'd been there.
GAIUS
It's a rare privilege. Alas, there are few unicorns still alive.
MERLIN
You try telling that to Arthur.
GAIUS
I can imagine it would be difficult.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS]
ARTHUR
My horse threw a shoe. Take it to the blacksmith. Make sure he does a good job. And
when you've done that, you can polish my s...
[Arthur turns around and sees Merlin staring out the window.]
ARTHUR
...saddle. Merlin? Have you listened to a word I've said?
[Merlin nods.]
ARTHUR
You've got a face like a wounded bear ever since we got back from that hunting
trip. Don't tell me you're still upset about the unicorn.
MERLIN
I don't think you should have killed it.
ARTHUR
Oh, really? And why is that?
MERLIN
It was... It was doing no harm. What purpose did you serve by killing it?
ARTHUR
We were hunting. That's what you do. Would you have me bring it home as a pet? Look
at this.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Do you know what that is?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
Rat droppings. My chambers are infested. You need to spend less time worrying about
unicorns and more time worrying about rats.
[Someone knocks.]
ARTHUR
Enter!
[A guard enters.]
GUARD
My Lord, the King requests your service as a matter of urgency.
ARTHUR
Find that rat.
--
[EXT. FIELD – DAY]
[Uther picks a dead piece of wheat stalk from a field.]
UTHER
Every single ear has died. We've received reports that it's the same throughout the
entire kingdom.
ARTHUR
I rode through this valley only yesterday. The crop looked healthy enough then.
UTHER
It happened overnight. Farmers are at a lost to explain it.
ARTHUR
Is it a disease of some kind?
UTHER
Perhaps. I've asked the court physician to conduct some tests. We must ration what
little food we have left.
--
MERLIN
Any ideas what caused the crops to die?
GAIUS
I'm here to complete all the tests. No disease I have heard of could spread through
the entire kingdom in a single night.
MERLIN
What could kill all the plants other than a disease?
GAIUS
It is not killing all the plants. The trees and hedges around the crop fields are
unharmed. Unfortunately, you can't eat trees and hedges.
MERLIN
It's only killing plants we can eat?
GAIUS
It appears so.
MERLIN
If it's not a disease, it must be magic.
GAIUS
We can't assume that, Merlin. Perhaps there is something in the soil and water that
can explain it. I can't tell the King it's caused by sorcery until I'm completely
certain.
--
[Villagers stand in a long queue leading into the palace grounds. A guard rations
out grain.]
GUARD
Next!
ARTHUR
The livestock is either dying or has been eaten. Food and water's very scarce and
we're distributing rations, but they're very meagre.
[Arthur opens a small shaft in the grain store, dumping out a small pile of grain.]
UTHER
This is all the grain we have?
ARTHUR
The people are growing scared. There's been some looting.
UTHER
We must maintain order at all costs. Panic will make the situation worse. I'll
issue a decree that looters will be executed. From tonight, Camelot will be under
curfew.
ARTHUR
I'll see to it.
--
[Merlin passes Gwen as she heads to the well along the outer wall.]
VILLAGER 1
Give it back to me. It's mine.
VILLAGER 2
It's not yours...
GWEN
Merlin. Is it true what they're saying about the crops? They're all dead?
MERLIN
Afraid so. We may have to start tightening our belts.
GWEN
I'm sure Arthur will think of something.
MERLIN
Well, and if he doesn't, I will.
[Gwen starts pumping for water, but only dry sand comes out.]
GWEN
Merlin!
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE]
[Uther and Arthur stand at the well in the Square, Uther sifts sand through his
fingers into the well bucket.]
UTHER
Sand. And you say the well is full of it?
ARTHUR
I sent men down to the underground reservoir. There is no trace of water to be
found.
UTHER
First the crops, and now this.
ARTHUR
It's the same throughout the kingdom. There's precious little water anywhere.
UTHER
Gaius. Can you offer any explanation for this?
GAIUS
I cannot think of a scientific explanation. I can only conclude it's the result of
sorcery.
UTHER
I believe you're right. It is the work of magic. The kingdom is under attack.
--
[Merlin sits with a bucket of sand and his magic book open in front of him.]
MERLIN
Gréot gecymen, lecan. Gecymen gé drýe wæter.
[Gaius approaches.]
MERLIN
I was... I was just, er...
GAIUS
I was hoping you might be trying to turn it back into water. I know I've cautioned
against using magic, but if ever there was a time to use your talents, it's now.
MERLIN
Well, I wish I knew how. I've tried everything. If it is magic, it's more powerful
magic than I possess.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE – DAY]
[Arthur addresses a group of guards.]
ARTHUR
Patrol the market and the lower town. No one is to leave their homes. Dismissed.
[Merlin enters the Square.]
ARTHUR
Merlin. You do realise there's a curfew?
MERLIN
Yeah, I was in your chambers, hunting for the rat.
ARTHUR
Did you find it?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
So you have been outwitted by a rat?
MERLIN
They do say rats are very intelligent.
ARTHUR
More intelligent than you, it would seem. Go home. It'd be embarrassing to have to
lock up my own servant for breaking the curfew.
[Arthur sees the white cloaked man, Anhora, walk through the Courtyard Corridor and
into the palace.]
ARTHUR
What was that?
MERLIN
What?
[Merlin and Arthur run after him, Arthur jumps over the Courtyard Corridor ledge.
They chase Anhora down the Upper Corridor, down some stairs, and down the Wrought
Iron Stairway to the Burial Vaults where they lose him. Arthur signs to Merlin.
Merlin nods, then follows Arthur.]
ARTHUR
That means you go the other way and cut him off.
MERLIN
Okay.
[Merlin and Arthur go in opposite directions and end up back at the Wrought Iron
Stairway without seeing anyone. Then they see Anhora's silhouette as he briefly
rounds the corner. Arthur has Merlin go the other way again. They end up back at
the Wrought Iron Stairway again.]
ARTHUR
Where is he?
MERLIN
I didn't seen anyone.
ARTHUR
He was right here! Don't tell me you let him get past you.
MERLIN
Arthur, no one passed me.
ARTHUR
Are you blind?!
ANHORA
Are you looking for me? I am Anhora, Keeper of the Unicorns.
ARTHUR
Camelot is under curfew. What's your business here?
ANHORA
I have come to deliver a message.
ARTHUR
And who is this message for?
ANHORA
It is for you, Arthur Pendragon.
ARTHUR
Is it you who's responsible for killing our crops, turning our water into sand?
ANHORA
You alone are responsible for the misfortune that has befallen Camelot.
ARTHUR
Me?! You think I'd bring drought and famine upon my own people?
ANHORA
When you killed the unicorn, you unleashed a curse. For this, Camelot will suffer
greatly.
ARTHUR
If you have put a curse on Camelot, you will lift it, or you will pay with your
life.
ANHORA
The curse was not my doing.
ARTHUR
Undo the curse or face execution.
ANHORA
Only you can do that. You will be tested.
ARTHUR
You're under arrest.
[Arthur reaches for Anhora, but he disappears and Arthur stumbles. Anhora reappears
on the Wrought Iron Stairway.]
ANHORA
Until you have proven yourself, and made amends for killing the unicorn, the curse
will not be lifted. If you fail any of these tests, Camelot will be damned for all
eternity.
--
GAIUS
And you believe what this Anhora said about the curse to be true?
MERLIN
Well, you said there's a legend that misfortune comes to anyone who slays a
unicorn. It makes sense.
GAIUS
Not much for breakfast, I'm afraid. We're down to our last few scraps of food.
MERLIN
Where did you get the water to make the tea?
GAIUS
Fortunately, for both of us, you forgot to empty your bath yesterday.
MERLIN
You're making tea from my bath water?
GAIUS
It's not so bad. Perhaps a little... soapy.
[Merlin sighs.]
GAIUS
What does Arthur think about the curse?
MERLIN (scoff)
He doesn't believe it's his fault. He's convinced Anhora's responsible for it.
GAIUS
If you do not wish to drink bath water, you better make sure Arthur sees sense.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS]
[Arthur pus on his boots in his chambers, he finds a hole in one of them.]
ARTHUR
That... rat! It's eaten through my boot, look at it!
MERLIN
I guess the rat must be as hungry as the rest of us!.
ARTHUR
You think this is funny?
MERLIN
Moderately.
ARTHUR
Get it mended. Find that rat.
MERLIN
Have you given any more thought to what Anhora said last night?
ARTHUR
Ah, well, he may have escaped last night, but at least we now know who we're
looking for. I told my father I'll find this Anhora and put an end to it.
MERLIN
What if he was telling the truth about the curse?
ARTHUR
You think I'm responsible for bringing suffering upon my own people?
MERLIN
No, not deliberately. When you killed the unicorn, I saw Anhora in the forest.
ARTHUR
Why didn't you say anything?
MERLIN
It was just for a second, and then he disappeared. I didn't even...well, I-I
thought I was seeing things. But he was definitely there.
ARTHUR
That doesn't actually prove anything.
MERLIN
Doesn't it make you think he might be telling the truth?
ARTHUR
Because he was skulking about in the forest? That makes me trust him even less.
MERLIN
Why would Anhora appear in Camelot, and then lie to you?
ARTHUR
We had him cornered. He was trying to talk his way out of it by blaming me.
MERLIN
Arthur, he can disappear into thin air. He didn't have to talk his way out of
anything.
ARTHUR
My father has warned me about sorcerers like him. They will not rest until our
kingdom is destroyed.
MERLIN
Well, I believe he's telling the truth.
ARTHUR
Then you're a fool. You cannot trust a single word a sorcerer says. You'd do well
to remember that. Now, I think I've figured out what Anhora's next move is going to
be, and when he makes it, we're going to be waiting.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, GRAIN STORE – NIGHT]
[Merlin leans against a pillar near the grain store with his eyes closed, smacking
his lips. Arthur hits him with a broom.]
ARTHUR
Don't you worry about keeping watch, Merlin. You just make yourself comfortable.
[Merlin sighs and smacks his lips.]
ARTHUR
Stop smacking your lips. It's annoying.
MERLIN
I'm thirsty.
ARTHUR
We're all thirsty, Merlin.
[Merlin sighs.]
ARTHUR
Pst! Someone's coming.
[Arthur draws his sword and Merlin follows him into the grain store. They see the
intruder's silhouette. Arthur motions to Merlin.]
ARTHUR (mouths)
You go over there and come in.
[Merlin nods.]
ARTHUR
Show yourself, before I run you through.
[Merlin picks up a scythe hook, a man edges around the corner with a shovel in one
hand and a sack of grain in the other.]
ARTHUR
Who are you?
EVAN
My name is... My name is...
ARTHUR
Speak up!
EVAN
My name is Evan, My Lord.
[Merlin comes out of hiding.]
ARTHUR
I see you think you can help yourself to our grain reserves. My father has order
that looters be executed.
EVAN
Please, My Lord. I- I do not steal for myself. I have three children they have not
eaten for two days. They are hungry.
ARTHUR
It's the same for everyone.
EVAN
I-- I know that it is wrong to steal. I couldn't bear to see them starve.
ARTHUR
And could you bear for your children to see you be executed?
[Evan shakes his head, close to tears.]
ARTHUR
Then you should go home. If you're caught stealing again, I will not spare you.
EVAN
Yes, My Lord. Thank you.
[Evan smiles, puts down the sack of grain and shovel, and starts to leave.]
ARTHUR
Wait.
[Arthur picks up the sack of grain and tosses it to Evan.]
ARTHUR
Use it sparingly. It might be the last food you and your family get for some time.
EVAN
You have shown yourself to be merciful and kind, My Lord. This will bring its own
reward.
--
[Gwen sees a man run past her in the Lower Town, the guards chasing him.]
GUARD 1
Stop him!
GUARD 2
Come back here!
GUARD 3
Stop that man! He's been looting!
[Gwen looks over by the well and sees a drop of water on the spout. She goes to it,
puts a bucket under the spout, and pushes the pump. Water gushes out.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin gulp down large mugs of water.]
ARTHUR
Never knew water could taste so good.
MERLIN
My throat was so dry, I thought I wouldn't be able to talk.
ARTHUR
Well, at least some good would've come from the drought, then.
MERLIN
More?
[Arthur motions towards his mug and Merlin fills it.]
ARTHUR
The sand's disappeared. The water returned to the well. It doesn't make any sense.
MERLIN
*ahem*
ARTHUR
I suppose you have some explanation for this, Merlin? Let's hear it.
MERLIN
Anhora said you would be tested. And last night, in the grain store, you let that
villager go. And he said it would bring its own reward.
ARTHUR
He was merely grateful, and so he should have been.
MERLIN
Maybe that was your first test. You passed it, so the curse has begun to lift.
Perhaps this is your reward. I know you don't have to listen to me.
ARTHUR
Glad we agree on something.
MERLIN
If you're tested again, you have a chance to end your people's suffering. I know
you want that more than anything. Perhaps we should seek Anhora out.
ARTHUR
I cannot negotiate with sorcerers. My father wouldn't hear of it.
MERLIN
Then it's probably best you don't tell him.
ARTHUR
I must go check on the guard. See if you can find me some food.
MERLIN (mutters)
Find some food!
[Merlin sees the rat climb out of Arthur's boot.]
MERLIN
Swealt déor.
--
[Even more people continue to queue outside the grain store. Morgana walks among
them with Arthur.]
MORGANA
Who are they?
ARTHUR
They've come from the outlying villages in search of food. There's not enough
rations to feed the people who are already here.
MORGANA
You shouldn't blame yourself. I'm sure you're doing everything you can.
ARTHUR
It is not enough.
[Arthur leaves and Gwen approaches Morgana.]
MORGANA
Did you manage to find any food?
[Gwen pulls a cloth back from her basket revealing some bread.]
MORGANA
Where did you get that?
GWEN
I was able to smuggle it out of the palace kitchens.
MORGANA
Share it out amongst the children and old people. Make it go as far as you can.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin pours some meat stew into a bowl.]
ARTHUR
Lost my appetite.
MERLIN
You have to eat something.
ARTHUR
I can't. Not while my people are starving. Do you really believe I'm responsible
for the curse?
MERLIN
I'm afraid so.
ARTHUR
We're going to the forest, first thing in the morning. Maybe we can pick up
Anhora's trail. Whatever it takes.
MERLIN
Okay, but you have to eat. You won't be able to help anyone if you're too weak to
pass the test.
[Arthur takes a bite.]
ARTHUR
What kind of meat is this? It has a very strange texture.
MERLIN
It's pork.
ARTHUR
This isn't pork. It's far too stringy. What is it? It's, erm...
[Arthur puts down his spoon.]
ARTHUR
It's rat, isn't it?
MERLIN (nods)
Try not to think about it.
ARTHUR
Look at me. I'm being rude. Here I am, stuffing my face with this delicious stew
when you're hungry, too. Come on. Take a seat.
[Arthur forces Merlin down into the chair.]
ARTHUR
Eat.
[Merlin takes a bite.]
ARTHUR
Mmm.
MERLIN
It's actually pretty tasty.
ARTHUR
Mm. Well, I'm glad you like it. Because...
[Arthur fetches the pot of stew.]
ARTHUR
...there's plenty more.
[Someone knocks.]
ARTHUR
Enter. Morgana?
MORGANA
I hate to ask, but I was wondering if you had anything to eat...
[Arthur pauses and Merlin smiles.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur search through the woods.]
MERLIN
I'm not entirely sure what I'm looking for.
ARTHUR
You're looking for footprints or broken branches. Anything that would indicate
someone passed that...
[Arthur catches sight of Anhora.]
ARTHUR
Merlin! Merlin! He's here!
[Arthur runs off.]
MERLIN
Arthur?!
[Merlin didn't see where he went. Arthur continues chasing Anhora and comes across
Evan sitting next to a camp full of horded food.]
ARTHUR
You? You're a thief.
EVAN
Wasn't that obvious when you caught me stealing your grain?
ARTHUR Fortunately I have more important things to deal with.
EVAN
You didn't really believe that story about my children, did you?
ARTHUR
What kind of man lies about starving children to save his own skin?
EVAN
Your people starve because you let thieves steal their grain. That is why they
doubt you.
ARTHUR
You don't speak for my people.
EVAN
Hey, your father would never have allowed himself to be fooled like that.
ARTHUR
You hold your tongue, or I will make time to teach you some manners.
EVAN
Your father would have had me executed, but you didn't have the stomach for it, did
you, Arthur? And that's why he doubts you'll make a good king.
ARTHUR
You know nothing of what my father thinks.
EVAN
I think he wishes he had another son, one who was worthy of taking his place. You
shame him.
ARTHUR
Pick up your sword.
EVAN
The King must fear the day when you will take the throne.
[Arthur attacks Evan.]
EVAN
He fears you do not have enough strength to defeat his enemies. The King must
wonder if you are even his son.
[Arthur strikes a fatal blow, but Evan has disappeared. Anhora appears behind
Arthur.]
ARTHUR
This is your doing?
ANHORA
It was a test to see what is truly in your heart.
ARTHUR
Your tricks prove nothing!
ANHORA
Why did you kill this man?
ARTHUR
He insulted my honour!
ANHORA
You could have chosen to ignore his taunts. What harm would they do you?
ARTHUR
You will lift the curse, Sorcerer.
ANHORA
It is not in my power.
ARTHUR
Then you will die.
[Arthur tries to strike him, but Anhora disapparates and Arthur falls to the
ground.]
ANHORA
Killing me will not help you.
[Arthur tries to strike him, but Anhora disapparates and Arthur falls to the ground
again.]
ANHORA
You have shown that you would kill a man to defend your pride. You have failed the
test. For this, Camelot will pay dearly.
ARTHUR
My people have done nothing!
ANHORA
Your people's suffering is not my doing. It is yours.
[Anhora disappears.]
MERLIN
Arthur?! Arthur?!
[Merlin finds Arthur.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, GRAIN STORE – DAY]
[Uther sifts rotten grain through his fingers as Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
What is it? What's happened?
UTHER
All our remaining supplies have rotted. Every last grain.
--
MERLIN
I know Arthur's stubborn and pig-headed and annoying, but he cares about his
people. More than he cares about himself. He will not forgive himself for making
his people suffer.
GAIUS
You must make sure he doesn't do anything rash.
MERLIN
The mood he's in, I don't know what he's gonna to do.
GAIUS
Ready?
MERLIN
Sure they're not poisonous?
GAIUS
Quite certain.
[Merlin and Gaius pick up giant insects.]

GAIUS
They say they taste like chicken. Unless we're to starve, we must hope they're
right.
[They bite into the crunchy insects.]
MERLIN
This tastes nothing like chicken.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Arthur broods. Uther enters.]
ARTHUR
There are some supplies left in the palace stores. We are distributing them to the
people, but there is not enough to live on. They will not survive for long.
UTHER
Then you must stop distributing food to the people.
ARTHUR
They will starve.
UTHER
We must conserve the food we have for our army.
ARTHUR
We cannot let our people go without food.
UTHER
We must defend the kingdom at all cost.
ARTHUR
What's the point of defending a kingdom when the people...
UTHER
Well, what would you have me do?!
ARTHUR
... starve to death?! Ask the neighbouring kingdoms for help.
UTHER
Ha.
ARTHUR
They may be able to spare some food.
UTHER
Out of the question. As soon as they realise how we weak we are, our enemies will
strike against us.
ARTHUR
You don't know that for certain!
UTHER
Besides I would rather starve than beg my enemies for help! What of our kingdom's
reputation? Have you no pride?
ARTHUR
I cannot think of my pride when our people go hungry. They're all I can think of.
UTHER
Give the order to stop distributing food to the people. Is that understood?
ARTHUR
You'll have to give that order yourself.
UTHER
Very well. But if you'd caught the sorcerer, I would not have to. That's your
responsibility! One day you will understand what it takes to be King!
--
[People continue queuing in the Square. Arthur and Merlin watch from the balcony.]
ARTHUR
They do not know yet know there is worse to come.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
ARTHUR
My father is going to stop distributing food to the people. They are to be left to
starve. I had a chance to lift the curse. And I failed them.
MERLIN
You weren't to know you were being tested.
ARTHUR
My people are starving. Camelot is on the verge of collapse. And it is all my
doing.
--
MERLIN
Anhora! Show yourself! Anhora!
[Anhora appears.]
ANHORA
You wanted to talk with me?
MERLIN
I've come to seek your help. The people are starving. They will soon be dead.
ANHORA
You must believe me when I say it gives me no pleasure to see your people
suffering.
MERLIN
If it pains you, put an end to it.
ANHORA
It is not in my power to lift the curse.
MERLIN
Then give Arthur another chance. He has accepted it is his responsibility, and he
will prove himself worthy and lift the curse if you give him one more chance.
ANHORA
You have faith in Arthur?
MERLIN
I trust him with my life.
ANHORA
Arthur must go to the Labyrinth of Gedref. There, he will face a final test. If he
fails, there is no hope. The curse will destroy Camelot.
[Anhora disappears.]
MERLIN
Wait! What kind of test will he face?
ANHORA (telepathy)
That is for Arthur alone to discover.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Arthur prepares for travel in his chambers.]
MERLIN
Let me come with you. You don't know what form of test will take. I might be able
to help.
ARTHUR
You're not coming. I brought this curse upon Camelot. I'm gonna be the one to lift
it, or die trying.
MERLIN
Alright, how does you dying help anyone?
ARTHUR
I'll die knowing I did everything I can.
MERLIN
ARTHUR
Merlin, you are to stay here, and help the people as best you can. Is that
understood?
[Arthur rides out of Camelot and across the countryside. Merlin follows.]
--
[EXT. LABYRINTH OF GEDREF –DAY]
[Arthur arrives at the labyrinth and enters, Merlin arrives shortly after and
follows. Merlin meets Anhora in the labyrinth.]
MERLIN
You said Arthur would face a test. And here you are, preparing a trap for him.
ANHORA
The trap isn't for Arthur. It is for you. Gehæftan.
[Merlin is wrapped in vines from the labyrinth hedges.]
--
[EXT. LABYRINTH OF GEDREF –DAY]
[Arthur runs through the labyrinth and finds the exit to the sea. Merlin is sitting
at a table on the shore, Anhora standing nearby.]
ARTHUR
Merlin?
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
ARTHUR
Let him go. I'll take your test, but not till he's released.
ANHORA
That is not possible. Merlin is part of the test. Please sit. If you refuse the
test, you will have failed and Camelot will be destroyed.
ARTHUR
I thought I told you to stay at home. Let's get on with it.
ANHORA
There are two goblets before you. One of the goblets contains a deadly poison, the
other goblet, a harmless liquid. All the liquid from both goblets must be drunk,
but each of you may only drink from a single goblet.
ARTHUR
What kind of ridiculous test is that? What does that prove?
ANHORA
What it proves is for you to decide. If you pass the test, the curse will be
lifted.
MERLIN
Let's think about this. What if I drink from my goblet first?
ARTHUR
If it's poisoned, you'll die.
MERLIN
And if it's not, then you'll have to drink from yours, and you'll die. There must
be a way around it.
ARTHUR
It is perfectly simple. One of us has to die. We have to find a way to determine
which goblet has the poison. And then I'll drink it.
MERLIN
I will be the one to drink it.
ARTHUR
This is my doing. I'm drinking it.
MERLIN
It is more important that you live. You're the future king. I'm just a servant.
ARTHUR
This is no time to be a hero, Merlin. It really doesn't suit you.
MERLIN (sigh)
What if I drink from mine first, and if that's not poisoned, I will then drink
yours?
ARTHUR
He said each of us is only allowed to drink from a single goblet. I had no idea you
were so keen to die for me.
MERLIN
Trust me, I can hardly believe it myself.
ARTHUR (snort)
I'm glad you are here, Merlin. (sigh)
MERLIN
I've got it. Right, we pour all the liquid into one goblet and then we can be sure
it is poisoned. Then all the liquid can be drunk, and it will be from a single
goblet.
ARTHUR
You never cease to surprise me. You're a lot smarter than you look.
MERLIN
Is that actually a compliment?
ARTHUR
Look out!
[Arthur points and Merlin looks. Arthur takes the two goblets and pour all of the
liquid into one of them, holding it to drink.]
MERLIN
No! I will drink it!
ARTHUR
As if I'd let you.
MERLIN
You can't die. This isn't your destiny.
ARTHUR
It seems you're wrong again.
MERLIN
Listen to me!
ARTHUR
You know me, Merlin. I never listen to you.
[Arthur toasts Merlin.]
MERLIN
Arthur!
[Arthur drinks it.]
MERLIN
No! What have you done?
[Arthur falls off the chair, unconscious.]
MERLIN
Arthur! No!
[Merlin tries to shake Arthur awake.]
MERLIN
Arthur. Arthur. Come on! Arthur, come on. Come on. Come on! No... Come on.
[Merlin turns to Anhora.]
MERLIN
Please. Please! Just... let me take his place!
ANHORA
This was Arthur's test, not yours.
MERLIN
You've killed him! I was meant to protect him!
ANHORA
He is not dead. He's merely consumed a sleeping draught. He will come round
shortly.
MERLIN
What?
ANHORA
A unicorn is pure of heart. If you kill one, you must make amends by proving that
you also are pure of heart. Arthur was willing to sacrifice his life to save yours.
He has proven what is truly in his heart. The curse will be lifted.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur ride into Camelot and dismount. Townsfolk are carrying around
platters joyously.]
GAIUS
Merlin, Arthur, there is good news! The crops are growing once again! They are
bringing in the harvest!
MERLIN
You did it.
UTHER
Is this your doing? Is the sorcerer dead?
ARTHUR
He won't be troubling us anymore.
UTHER
Good. Make sure the grain reserves are re-stocked.
ARTHUR
I'll see to it. There's something we must do first.
--
[Arthur lays the unicorn's horn in a burial mound of stones.]
ARTHUR
I should never have ended your life. I'm sorry.
[Merlin and Arthur begin laying stones over the grave. Merlin looks up and sees a
unicorn.]
MERLIN
Arthur...
ANHORA (voiceover)
When he who kills a unicorn proves himself to be pure of heart, the unicorn will
live again.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:11
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BBC Merlin: 1x12 To Kill the King
KILGHARRAH
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN – DAY.]
[Tom pushes a cart playfully down the street and sneaks up behind the carpet that
Gwen is beating. He pops his head over the clothes line on which the carpet is
hung.]
TOM
Boo!
GWEN
Oh!
[Gwen holds her hand to her chest.]
TOM
Did I surprise you?
GWEN
You certainly did!
TOM
I've got another surprise for you, too.
[Tom hands Gwen a small, wrapped cloth. Gwen opens it, revealing a fancy button.]
GWEN
It's...lovely.
TOM
Well, in case you ever need a spare. You know...for this...
[Tom holds up a colourful dress.]
GWEN
It's beautiful!
TOM
Well, you're a beautiful girl, Gwen. You deserve beautiful things.
GWEN
But how? I mean...it must have been expensive.
TOM
Oh, very. But we're on the up now. Things are going to be different.
GWEN
What's going on?
TOM
It'll be all right. Trust me.
[Tom kisses her cheek.]
TOM
I won't be back for supper.
--
[INT. TOM’S FORGE – NIGHT]
[Tom works at his forge. Tom hears lots of wind.]
TOM
Hello?
[A man appears before Tom, hooded and cloaked.]
TAUREN
Is it prepared?
TOM
Yes. Look.
[Tauren approaches the forge and pulls down his hood, looking at the melted lead.]
TAUREN
Very good.
[Tauren pulls out a stone with silver claws around it.]
TOM
What is that?
TAUREN
I'm not paying you to ask questions. The lead, please.
[Tom takes the lead off the forge and pours it into a mould. Tauren holds the stone
over the lead and the stone glows, Merlin wakes in his chamber.]
TAUREN
Áfæren æt gylden.
TOM (whisper)
You didn't say anything about magic! I don't want any trouble!
TAUREN
I búgan þéos... áfæren æt gylden.
[The lead turns to gold.]
TOM
Gold?
TAUREN
Pure, priceless gold.
[Tom drenches the gold and it steams. Tom holds up the lump of gold.]
TAUREN
Yours, blacksmith. If you keep your mouth shut.
[Arthur bursts in with the guards. Tauren runs for it.]
ARTHUR
Seize him!
GUARD
Yes, sir.
ARTHUR
Quickly, after him!
[Tauren tosses the heated materials in the water, creating a smoke screen. he
knocks over a table and drops the leather bag with the stone in it.]
GUARD
Stop!
ARTHUR
He must be caught!
GUARD
Stop that man!
[A pair of guards stay behind, restraining Tom. Arthur turns around and takes the
gold from him.]
TOM
Sire, please...
ARTHUR
You're under arrest.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin emerges from his chamber.]
GAIUS
Can't sleep?
MERLIN
Something woke me.
GAIUS
What?
MERLIN
I don't know. A feeling.
GAIUS
What kind of feeling?
MERLIN
Powerful magic, here, in Camelot.
[Gwen runs into the Physician's Chambers.]
MERLIN
Gwen. What's wrong?
GWEN
My father's been arrested.
MERLIN
Arrested? What for?
GWEN
They say he was making weapons for a sorcerer! They're charging him with treason!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HEDGEHOG CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Morgana, Uther, and Arthur. Morgana’s in her nightgown.]
MORGANA
Treason!?
UTHER
Yes, Morgana, treason. The blacksmith was consorting with a known enemy.
MORGANA
Enemy? What enemy?
ARTHUR
Tauren. The leader of a band of renegade sorcerers sworn to bring down the King.
MORGANA
And where is this Tauren now?
ARTHUR
He escaped.
MORGANA
Well, then how can you be sure?
UTHER
Because Arthur saw him with his own eyes.
MORGANA
Well, even if the man is who you say he is, you can't sentence Tom to death for
just being seen with him!?
UTHER
We have reason to believe he was forging weapons for Tauren.
MORGANA
Rubbish! He would never do such a thing.
UTHER
Every man has a price.
[Arthur slides the lump of gold across the table.]
ARTHUR
Found this on the blacksmith.
MORGANA
So he was paid! He's a blacksmith. He could've been paid for shoeing Tauren's
horse!
UTHER
In gold?
MORGANA
This is madness! You condemn a man with no proof!
UTHER
I have enough proof.
MORGANA
Arthur! Have you nothing to say?
ARTHUR
Father, the blacksmith committed a crime, but we don't know for certain he meant
treason.
UTHER
No. You're right. Nothing's certain. Save one thing. The law stands or this kingdom
falls.
MORGANA
But the law must give him a fair trial!
UTHER
He'll get a fair trial, and he'll be found guilty, 'cause that's what he is.
MORGANA
You execute Gwen's father, and I will never forgive you. Never.
[Morgana storms out.]
ARTHUR
Maybe we should investigate further.
UTHER
Tauren slept somewhere, he fed somewhere. Find anyone who helped him in any way.
They must be punished. The people must see the laws of Camelot are not to be
trifled with.
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
--
[Gwen visits her father’s cell.]
TOM
I didn't know Tauren was a sorcerer. I meant no harm, I swear.
GWEN
Why didn't you tell me what was going on?
TOM
I knew you wouldn't like it, Gwen. You're cautious. I didn't want to let an
opportunity pass...
GWEN
Opportunity? You call this an opportunity?
TOM
I know. I've been a fool. (sigh) I just wanted to make a better life for us. For
you. I wanted to make you happy.
GWEN
But I am happy! I don't need anything else. I have everything I want.
TOM
And I've thrown it all away!
GWEN
It's all right. We will get you out of here, I promise.
[Gwen walks away from the bars to where Merlin and Gaius are waiting.]
MERLIN
What did he say?
GWEN
He said Tauren came to him at the forge, offered to pay him a fortune for his help,
not to make weapons, for an experiment or something.
MERLIN
What kind of experiment?
GWEN
Tauren didn't say. But he used some kind of stone...some kind of magic...
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS]
[Gaius exits Merlin's Chamber.]
GAIUS
She's sleeping now.
MERLIN
I don't understand it. What would a sorcerer want with Tom?
GAIUS
His forge, Merlin. It's the finest in the kingdom.
MERLIN
You think Tom was lying? You think he really was making weapons?
GAIUS
No, I don't.
MERLIN
Then what?
GAIUS
When Tom was arrested, they found gold on him.
MERLIN
So?
GAIUS
And from what Gwen was saying, Tauren's experiment bears all the hallmarks of
alchemy.
MERLIN
But alchemy's impossible, isn't it?
GAIUS
To change the very nature of one thing to another has defeated all who have tried.
But if you used magic...
MERLIN
Do you think that's what woke me?
GAIUS
It is possible, I suppose.
--
[Morgana walks to Gwen's home.]
MORGANA
Gwen? Gwen?
[Morgana walks to Tom's forge.]
MORGANA
Gwen?
[Morgana sees the leather bag on the floor of the forge, picks it up, and pulls out
the stone, it glows in her hands. Merlin senses it as he sits in a chair in his
chamber. Morgana takes the stone to her chambers and puts it in a fancy box.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER – DAY]
[Morgana enters Merlin's Chamber.]
MORGANA
Merlin.
MERLIN
Morgana.
[Morgana looks at Gwen sleeping on the bed.]
MORGANA
How is she?
MERLIN
She's doing OK.
MORGANA
We should let her rest.
MERLIN (whisper)
Yeah.
[Merlin and Morgana exit his chamber.]
MERLIN
Morgana, have you spoken to Uther? He must realise this is a mistake. Whatever Tom
was doing, it wasn't plotting against the King.
MORGANA
I know that. Of course I do. But Uther...Uther only sees enemies.
MERLIN
But Tom is the most gentle soul I've ever met.
MORGANA
But he was seen with Tauren, and that makes him an enemy.
[Morgana turns to leave.]
MERLIN
Then...
[Morgana stops to face him.]
MERLIN
...there's little hope?
MORGANA
There's no hope, Merlin. None at all.
--
[Morgana enters.]
MORGANA
Arthur?
[She walks over to the bureau and searches for a key.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS – DAY]
[Morgana visits Tom.]
MORGANA
I bring you no relief, Tom. I'm sorry. I came only to see you were comfortable.
TOM
How's Gwen?
MORGANA
She's a brave girl. She wishes only to see you free.
TOM
I know what Uther thinks about sorcery. I'm a dead man, aren't I?
MORGANA
I cannot see the future, only the present, and one must always seize the moment.
[Morgana hands him the key through the bars.]
MORGANA
Good luck.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE – DAY]
[The executioner and some guards escort some men into the Square.]
MERLIN
They're to be executed?
ARTHUR
Yes, Merlin.
MERLIN
By order of the King?
ARTHUR
They committed a serious crime.
MERLIN
Giving a man a bed for the night?!
ARTHUR
Not a man. A sorcerer.
MERLIN
Maybe they didn't know that.
ARTHUR
It is not for you to question my father's actions. Is that understood?
MERLIN
Yes, Sire.
ARTHUR
Now go get on with whatever you're meant to be doing.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS – NIGHT]
[Tom lies awake in his cell that night. he pretends to be asleep when the guard
comes by, then uses the key to escape. he sneaks through the dungeon tunnels, but
the guard checks his cell again.]
GUARD
Sound the warning bell!
[Tom knocks out a guard who's closing a dungeon gate. Tom takes his sword and the
warning bell tolls. Uther and Arthur enter the Council Chamber of Doom.]
UTHER
He's just proved his guilt. You will kill him on sight.
ARTHUR
But the trial, Father!
UTHER
The trial is a formality. Now I want him dead. And an end to it.
[Tom tries to sneak up the Wrought Iron Stairway, but guards come down and surround
him on all sides. He drops his sword.]
TOM
Please...
[Tom goes to his knees with his hands in the air.]
GUARD
Kill him.
[Swords run him though.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – DAY]
[Gwen's wail echoes in the Square.]
GWEN
Nooooooo...!
[She runs down the steps to her father's body, which is being carried off on a cart
by a pair of guards. Morgana watches from a window above.]
GWEN
No, Father!!! No, Father!!!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HEDGEHOG CHAMBER – DAY]
[Morgana waits for guards to open the doors and she storms in.]
MORGANA
You have blood on your hands, Uther Pendragon! Blood that will never wash off!
UTHER
May I remind you that you're speaking to your King.
MORGANA
May I remind you that a king is wise and just. You are neither. You rule only with
the sword.
UTHER
You know nothing of what it means to be King. The fate of Camelot rests in my
hands. It's my responsibility to protect the people of this land from its enemies.
MORGANA
Then the kingdom is doomed! For one by one you make enemies of us all!
UTHER
You speak treason, Morgana.
MORGANA
Only a mad man hears the truth as treason.
UTHER
Take care, child, or I'll have you restrained.
MORGANA
You just try.
--
[Morgana is dragged into a large prison cell by some guards and chained to the
wall.]
UTHER
And you will remain here until you learn your lesson.
MORGANA
Then release me because I've learned it already! That you care not for me, or
anyone but yourself! That you're driven mad with power! That you're a tyrant!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER]
[Gwen sits on the bed in Merlin's Chamber, staring off into space. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
All right?
GWEN
I just don't understand. Why did he try to escape? His trial was this morning.
[Someone knocks gently on the door. Arthur enters and Gwen stands up quickly to
face him.]
GWEN
Sire.
ARTHUR
Guinevere, I...want you to know that your job is safe. And that your home is yours
for life. I guarantee you that. I know that under the circumstances it's not much
but, erm, anything you want, anything you need, all you have to do is ask.
[Arthur begins to leave but pauses and turns back around.]
ARTHUR
I'm sorry.
GWEN
Thank you, Sire.
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN – NIGHT]
[Gwen walks home from the palace. She pauses to take her dress off of the clothes
line before going inside. Tauren steps out from the shadows and grabs her from
behind, covering her mouth.]
TAUREN (whisper)
I want the stone! Where is it?
[Gwen tries to shake her head, Tauren lifts his hand from her mouth.]
GWEN
I don't know what you're talking about. I don't know anything about...
[Tauren clamps his hand back over her mouth.]
TAUREN
Now you listen to me. In two days' time, I'll be at the Darkling Woods at dawn. You
find the stone, you bring it to me, or you will die. Now, do I make myself clear?
Gwen (muffled)
(nods) Mm-hmm!
--
[Gaius flips through a book as Merlin exits his chamber.]
GAIUS
Merlin, come and take a look. I've been doing some research and found this.
MERLIN
The Mage Stone?
GAIUS
Wonder of the ancients. Lost for a thousand years or more.
MERLIN
What does it do?
GAIUS
Theoretically, it could give the bearer the power of transformation.
MERLIN
Gold. The power of alchemy.
GAIUS
Exactly. I believe it was the Mage Stone you sensed on the night of Tom's arrest.
MERLIN
Of course! Gwen said that Tauren had some kind of stone.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEON – DAY]
[Morgana sits on the floor of her cell. the door opens and Arthur enters.]
MORGANA You. How proud you must be. Son of the mighty Uther. How you must look up
to him. Does the King's little helper bring a message? Or have you just come to
gloat?
ARTHUR Guards!
[Morgana stands up and backs away, pulling on her chains.]
MORGANA Get away from me, you cowards!
ARTHUR You're free to go.
[the guards remove her manacles and leave. She walks to the door.]
ARTHUR Morgana.
[She pauses just behind Arthur.]
MORGANA
Yes?
ARTHUR
I swore to him you'd never challenge his authority again. I swore that you'd
learned your lesson. Tread carefully. Next time, I may not be able to help you.
MORGANA
Thank you. You're a better man than your father. Always were.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Morgana enters her chambers, where Gwen is sitting. Gwen goes to Morgana quickly.]
GWEN
My Lady!
MORGANA
Gwen. I didn't expect to see you here.
GWEN
What happened to you?!
MORGANA
Nothing. Well, nothing a hot bath wouldn't fix.
[Gwen sees the sores on Morgana's arms where the manacles rubbed.]
MORGANA
I spent the night in the dungeon.
GWEN
Uther.
MORGANA
He doesn't like to be challenged.
GWEN
It wasn't about my father, was it?
MORGANA
You have enough to deal with without worrying about such things.
GWEN
You shouldn't have done that! Not on my behalf. If anything happened to you, I
couldn't bear it.
MORGANA
You need to go home, Gwen. Get some rest. Please.
GWEN
I'm fine, My Lady.
MORGANA
I insist.
[Gwen walks past Morgana with her head bowed, picking up a hair brush.]
MORGANA
Gwen?
[Gwen stops, her back to Morgana, trying not to cry.]
MORGANA
Gwen?
GWEN
I can't go home!
MORGANA
It's understandable to feel so alone.
GWEN
Tauren...
MORGANA
Tauren?!
GWEN
He attacked me. He threatened me. He was looking for some kind of stone.
MORGANA
Stone?
GWEN
He said if I didn't bring it to him, he'd kill me. He's waiting for me in the
Darkling Woods. I have to do something. If I don't get this stone to him by dawn
tomorrow...
[Morgana begins walking off purposefully.]
GWEN
MORGANA
I'm going to send the guards, of course. It won't be you that Tauren meets. It'll
be the Knights of Camelot.
--
[INT/EXT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER/MORGANA’S CHAMBERS/FOREST – NIGHT]
[Merlin wakes when he senses the Mage Stone's power as Morgana holds it in her
chambers. He gets out of bed and sees her walking out of Camelot. He follows her
through the Lower Town and into the woods, where she is surrounded by Tauren's men.
He hides behind a tree and listens in on their conversation.]
TAUREN
Where's your maid?
MORGANA
I've come in her place.
TAUREN
Kill her.
MORGANA
No! Wait! I brought the Stone!
[Morgana reaches for the stone.]
TAUREN
What else have you brought, My Lady? The Knights of Camelot?
MORGANA
I came alone, I promise you.
TAUREN
Give me the stone.
[Morgana hands it over.]
TAUREN
You were foolish to come here. I had no quarrel with your maid. But you, My Lady
Morgana, you are Uther's ward.
[He draws his sword and puts it to her stomach.]
MORGANA
If you kill me, you'll regret it.
TAUREN
Why is that?
MORGANA
Because I want Uther dead, too.
TAUREN
You? An enemy of the King? And I'm to believe that?
MORGANA
Why else would I be here?
TAUREN
I can only guess at your motives, My Lady. You could be a spy, for all I know.
MORGANA
And this...
[She flips back her sleeves, revealing her sore, bruised wrists.]
MORGANA
Is it usual for Uther to chain his friends to a dungeon wall? The stone. You took
it to the forge. Why?
TAUREN
With it a man can alter the very essence of things. He can turn a lump of lead into
gold.
MORGANA
Gold? A good man died in your quest for riches, Tauren. His daughter is now an
orphan.
TAUREN
I'm sorry for that. Truly. But we did not want the gold to line our pockets.
The gold was but a means, a means to rid this kingdom of Uther Pendragon once and
for all.
MORGANA
What are you saying?
TAUREN
Bribery is rife at Camelot. I will use the corruption at the heart of his kingdom,
and such abundance of gold will buy me into the King's chambers, even to the King
himself.
MORGANA
The guards may be fools, Tauren, but the King is not.
TAUREN
Do you have a better plan?
MORGANA
To get to Uther, you need someone close to him.
TAUREN
And you know of such a person?
MORGANA
I do. Me.
--
[ Merlin stares into his bowl at dinner.]
GAIUS Pass the salt, please.

[Merlin hands him an apple without looking.]
GAIUS
You all right?
MERLIN
What? Yeah. I've just got a few things on my mind, that's all.
GAIUS
Anything you'd like to talk to me about?
MERLIN
I can't imagine you'd be interested.
GAIUS
So long as you're sure.
MERLIN
I should be getting to work.
[Merlin gets up and heads to the door behind him.]
GAIUS
Er, Merlin?
[Merlin stops and turns.]
GAIUS
That's a broom cupboard.
--
[Merlin walks down the Tunnel Stairway with a torch and enters the Dragon's Cave.
Kilgharrah is sleeping. Merlin clears his throat pointedly. The dragon stirs.]
KILGHARRAH
Well, young warlock, what is it you come to ask of me?
MERLIN
I need your help.
KILGHARRAH
Of course you do, but this time, will you heed my words?
MERLIN
The sorcerer Tauren is plotting to kill the King. He's made an ally of Morgana. I
don't know what to do!
KILGHARRAH
Do...nothing.
MERLIN
What do you mean? If I do nothing, Uther will die.
KILGHARRAH
Don't you want Uther dead? It is Uther that persecutes you and your kind, Merlin.
It is Uther that murders the innocent...
MERLIN
But surely that doesn't make it right to kill him.
KILGHARRAH
Only if Uther dies can magic return to the land. Only if Uther dies will you be
free, Merlin. Uther's reign is at an end. Let Arthur's reign begin. Fulfil your
destiny!
MERLIN
Wait! Where does it say my destiny includes murder?
KILGHARRAH
Free this land from tyranny, Merlin! Free us all!
--
[Uther eats alone. Morgana enters.]
UTHER
I didn't expect to see you. You wish to say something?
MORGANA
I came to apologise, My Lord.
UTHER
Good.
[Morgana stiffens.]
MORGANA
I didn't mean to rile you. I thought only of Gwen. The poor girl is all alone in
the world.
UTHER
It was not my intention to hurt your maid.
MORGANA
I know. But now she suffers, and I know how she must suffer.
UTHER
Morgana...
MORGANA
I only meant, I know what it's like to lose a father.
UTHER
That was a terrible day. Your father was a great friend. I had no part in his
death.
MORGANA
You sent him into battle. You promised him reinforcements and then gave him none.
You sent him to his death.
UTHER
That is not true. It was never my intention.
MORGANA
But it happened! And it keeps on happening.
UTHER
Morgana!
MORGANA
I'm sorry, My Lord.
[Morgana turns to leave, looking upset, but her expression clears when she faces
the door.]
--
MERLIN
Do you think Uther's a good king?
GAIUS
Sorry?
MERLIN
*Ahem* Uther. Do you think he's good for the kingdom?
GAIUS
Yes. Yes, I do. In the light of recent events, you may find that hard to believe.
MERLIN
Hard? No. Impossible? Definitely.
GAIUS
Merlin...
MERLIN
Everyone hates him.
GAIUS
It is not Uther's job to be liked. It is Uther's job to protect the kingdom. Most
of his methods are right. Sometimes he may go too far.
MERLIN
Really? You mean like executing anyone who even passes a sorcerer on the street?
GAIUS
Yes. But despite Uther's failings, he has brought peace and prosperity to this
kingdom.
MERLIN
But at what cost? At the cost of women and children, fathers and sons! When will it
end?
GAIUS
It will end when Arthur is King.
MERLIN
Then why not let that time be now? Why not let Arthur be King?
GAIUS
Arthur's not ready. The responsibility would be too great. Brave though he may be,
he lacks experience, he lacks judgment. Is there anything you want to tell me?
MERLIN
I can't...I, I just...No, I can't. You've just got to trust me. Gaius, it's
something I've got to work out for myself.
GAIUS
I do trust you, Merlin. Whatever it is, I know you'll make the right decision.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM/GRIFFIN STAIRCASE – DAY]
[Uther watches from a Throne Room window as Morgana walks down the palace steps
into the Square with Gwen. Morgana walks down the curved steps from her chambers to
the Griffin Landing, Uther rounds the corner behind her.]
UTHER
Morgana!
[Morgana stops, but doesn't turn around.]
UTHER
I'm not disturbing you, I hope?
MORGANA
Not at all.
UTHER
These are difficult times. They put a strain on us all.
MORGANA
Yes, My Lord.
UTHER
I cannot tell you how much it pains me to be at odds with you.
MORGANA
And I with you.
UTHER
I've been thinking about what you said. And, er, I realise I may have been
insensitive. I should have foreseen the distress that your maid's loss would cause
you, that it would stir old memories. I've opened an old wound. For that, I'm
sorry.
[Morgana goes to Uther.]
MORGANA
My Lord, it gladdens my heart to hear these words. I too wish to heal these wounds.
Let us visit my father's grave together and put the past behind us.
UTHER
Nothing would give me greater happiness.
MORGANA
Shall we leave tomorrow at first light?
UTHER
I will make arrangements.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, ENTRANCE – NIGHT]
[Morgana meets Tauren outside the palace walls at night.]
TAUREN
So, My Lady, what news?
MORGANA
Uther has fallen for the bait. We ride out in the morning for the Old Cairn on the
hill.
TAUREN
Are you sure you're committed to this?
MORGANA
More than ever I want Uther dead as much as you. As much as anyone in this rotten
kingdom of his.
TAUREN
Then the deed is as good as done.
[Merlin sees Tauren leave and sneaks back behind the castle wall.]
--
[EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Uther and Morgana's party rides out of the Square the next morning. Merlin watches
from Arthur's Chambers. Gwen walks past and notices him staring out the window.]
GWEN
Merlin?
MERLIN
Gwen. How are you doing?
GWEN
I was about to ask you the same question.
MERLIN
I'm fine. Fine.
[Gwen looks out the window at the riding party.]
GWEN
Morgana's been amazing these last few days.
MERLIN
I think you've been amazing. After all that's happened, getting your life back
together...
GWEN
It's better than sitting in an empty house, waiting for my father to walk through
the door. The thing I find hardest to bear is that people will always think he was
guilty because he tried to escape.
MERLIN
I know he was innocent.
GWEN
I think he tried to escape because he knew that whatever he said or did he'd be
killed. Uther had already made up his mind. That's the kind of man he is.
MERLIN
I wouldn't blame you if you wanted him dead.
GWEN
If Uther died I'd feel nothing. He means nothing to me.
MERLIN
But if you had...you know...the choice, what would you do? If you had the power of
life and death over Uther, would you kill him? For what he did?
GWEN
No!
MERLIN
No?
GWEN
What would that solve? That would make me a murderer. That would make me as bad as
him.
MERLIN
You're right. Of course you're right.
[Merlin runs out of the room.]
GWEN
Is anything wrong?!
MERLIN
No, no! See you later!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER – DAY]
[Merlin runs into his chamber and grabs Sophia Tír-Mòr's staff from under his bed.
--
[EXT. GORLOIS’S GRAVE – DAY]
[Tauren and his men hide behind trees in the forest that the riding party passes
through. Morgana and Uther dismount at the bottom of the hill.]
MORGANA
Do you think that we could have some privacy?
UTHER
Fine. Wait here. We're in no danger.
GUARD
Sire.
[Merlin runs through the woods with the staff. Morgana and Uther climb the hill to
the gravesite. Merlin approaches their horses and finds the Camelot guards dead; he
sees the renegades pursuing Uther. Morgana kneels at Gorlois's gravestone.]
MORGANA
Father.
[Uther sticks his sword in the ground. Merlin approaches the renegades and raises
the staff.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Ácwele!
[A bolt of energy shoots out and kills one of the renegades, the other one draws
his sword and Merlin shoots him, too. Uther approaches the grave and places his
hand on Morgana's head.]
UTHER
Your father was the greatest man I've ever known. He stood for everything this
kingdom represents. Truth, justice, valour. A hundred times he saved my life on the
battlefield. His courage and his honour were without equal.
[Uther kneels and kisses gravestone.]
UTHER
When Gorlois died, I lost the truest friend I ever had. For he was as fearless in
questioning my judgment as he was in defending my kingdom. That's the mark of a
true friend.
MORGANA
I know how he respected you, My Lord. But I don't share these memories. How can I?
I was ten years old. I only know I loved him and he was taken from me.
UTHER
When he died, and I took you into my care, you fought me from the beginning. Your
will is as strong as my own. You challenge me as a friend must. As your father did
in his time.
MORGANA
And when I do, you clap me in irons.
UTHER
I know I'm not an easy man. My temper blinds me sometimes. There are things that I
regret.
MORGANA
Gwen's father?
UTHER
Yes.
[Morgana looks at Uther, surprised.]
MORGANA
Are you saying you were wrong to have Tom killed?
UTHER
Yes.
[Tauren watches them from behind a tree, but he hears Merlin sneaking up behind
him. He moves and pulls out the Mage Stone.]
MERLIN
Ácwele!
[Merlin raises the staff and shoot, but Tauren absorbs the energy bolt with the
Stone and sends it back at Merlin. Merlin is knocked unconscious. Tauren sneaks up
behind Uther.]
UTHER
I will strive to listen to you more and quarrel with you less. You've been a
blessing to me, Morgana. You are the daughter I never had. Your counsel is
invaluable, as is your friendship and your love. Without you, I cannot hope to be
the king this land deserves
MORGANA
My Lord...!
UTHER
Please forgive me, Morgana.
[Morgana sees Tauren sneaking up behind Uther with a raised sword.]
MORGANA
No! No!
[Uther blocks the blow and wrestles with Tauren. Merlin wakes. Tauren pins Uther
down and draws a dagger, which Uther tries to block.]
TAUREN
Die, Uther Pendragon!
[Merlin approaches with the staff, but Tauren is stabbed in the back. Uther pushes
him off and Morgana drops the dagger. Merlin climbs the bottom of the hill to see
Uther hugging Morgana.]
--
[Merlin enters.]
GAIUS
Ah, busy day?
MERLIN
Had its moments.
GAIUS
I hear that Tauren tried to assassinate Uther.
MERLIN
That's what I hear.
GAIUS
And that Morgana saved him. How many men were there? Three? Four?
MERLIN
Yeah, something like that.
GAIUS
Morgana must have shown extraordinary courage to have defended a king against such
odds. I suppose you had nothing to do with it?
MERLIN
Oh, you know. Just background stuff.
GAIUS
No need to be so modest, Merlin.
MERLIN
Sorry.
GAIUS
It's not a criticism. It's a compliment.
MERLIN
Right. Thanks, Gaius.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:12
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BBC Merlin: 1x13 Le Morte d'Arthur
<<< EPISODE 1x12 │ SERIES 2 >>>
KILGHARRAH
--
[Arthur's hunting party sneaks through the woods.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, spear.
[Merlin drops it on him.]
ARTHUR
Do you have any natural gifts, Merlin?
MERLIN
No. Well, let me think. I'm not naturally rude or insensitive.
ARTHUR
Just naturally irritating.
[They move forward and hear growling noises. Arthur catches Merlin's expression.]
ARTHUR
It's probably more scared of you than you are of it.
[Arthur signals to his knights where to go. Questing Beast jumps out at them.
Arthur drops his spear and they all run. Merlin falls. Arthur and Sir Bedivere help
him up. Bedivere subsequently falls and gets killed by the beast.]
MERLIN
Have we lost it?
ARTHUR
Who's missing?
MERLIN
Where's Sir Bedivere?
SIR BEDIVERE
*scream*
--
GAIUS
The creature you describe has all the characteristics of the Questing Beast.
ARTHUR
Surely that's a myth.
GAIUS
According to the old books, the appearance of the Questing Beast is supposed to
foreshadow a time of great upheaval.
UTHER
Gaius, it's an old wives' tale.
ARTHUR
Look, whatever it is, it's spreading panic. The people fear it will enter the city.
UTHER
Then we must kill it. Arthur, gather the guard together. You ride at dawn.
GAIUS
I beg you, Sire, do not dismiss this. The beast is an omen. I've seen it come
before, the night your wife Ygraine passed away.
UTHER
I've told you not to speak of that night again. I have conquered the Old Religion.
It's warnings mean nothing to me now. Arthur will destroy the beast and we will no
longer suffer at its hand.
--
GAIUS
This is no ordinary beast, Merlin.
MERLIN
Don't worry.
GAIUS
No, listen to me, you don't understand. Uther may not respect the Old Religion, but
it is very real. To face a beast such as this, you must understand where it came
from.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
GAIUS
At the very heart of the Old Religion lies the magic of life and death itself. The
Questing Beast carries that power. One bite, you die, and there is no cure.
[Morgana dreams of the dragon flaming, Merlin yelling "NO!", Arthur and Merlin
running in the woods, Arthur lying sick in bed, and the Questing Beast. Morgana
bolts up in bed screaming.]
GWEN
Morgana? Morgana?! Wake up.
[Gwen struggles with flailing Morgana.]
GWEN
Wake up, it's me! It's Gwen! Stop it! It was just another dream.
MORGANA
It was terrifying.
GWEN
Oh, it's going to be alright.
[Gwen hugs Morgana.]
--
[Arthur speaks to his knights.]
ARTHUR
You've seen the foe we face. It's a creature of nightmare, but you are the best
knights in the realm. We can, and we will, kill it before it harms another citizen
of our kingdom.
ARTHUR
For the love of Camelot!
[The knights draw swords.]
KNIGHTS
[Morgana rushes out of the palace in her nightgown, hysterical.]
MORGANA
Arthur!
ARTHUR
Morgana, what are you doing?
MORGANA
You cannot face this!
[Morgana tries to grab him, Arthur struggles with her.]
ARTHUR
Morgana, go back to bed. There is nothing to be afraid of.
MORGANA
Please, Arthur. I have seen terrible things! You cannot go!
MERLIN
She probably had a bad dream, Sire. I'll take her to see Gaius.
MORGANA
No! I will not let you go!
ARTHUR
Please, Merlin, get her inside.
MORGANA
No!
[Arthur hands her off to Merlin and motions for the guards to come down. Merlin
guides Morgana up the steps.]
MERLIN
I will make sure he's safe, My Lady. I promise.
MORGANA
No!
[Merlin hands her off to the guards.]
MORGANA
No!
[Guards lead her inside.]
--
[Arthur and knights sneak through the woods. Arthur finds gigantic paw print.]
ARTHUR
Let's follow the trail.
[They hear growling and heavy footfalls.]
ARTHUR
Keep close.
[They find and enter beast's lair. Merlin and Arthur split from the rest. they hear
hissing.]
MERLIN
What is it?
ARTHUR
Shh!
[Questing Beast sneaks up on them. Arthur pushes Merlin out of the way and takes on
the beast. The beast claws him in the chest, throwing him to the ground. It moves
in on Arthur. Merlin tries to distract it by waving his torch.]
MERLIN
Hey! Hey!
[Merlin uses magic to pick up Arthur's dropped sword.]
MERLIN
Fléoge! Bregdan anwiele gefeluc!
[Merlin enchants the sword and magically throws it into the Questing Beast, killing
it. Merlin goes to Arthur and shakes him.]
MERLIN
It didn't bite you. It didn't.
[Merlin sees blood on his hand.]
MERLIN
Arthur?! Somebody help me!
--
Merlin clears a table with one sweep. Guards place Arthur's stretcher on it.]
GAIUS
What's happened?
[Gaius looks at Arthur's wound.]
GAIUS
He's been bitten.
MERLIN
I tried to save him.
GAIUS
You must tell the King.
MERLIN
There must be something you can do.
GAIUS
I wish there was.
MERLIN
I'll find a cure.
GAIUS
Merlin!
MERLIN
Trust me!
[Merlin bolts into his room.]
GAIUS
Can you hear me, Sire?
MERLIN
Here.
[Merlin brings out magic book.]
GAIUS
The King'll be here any moment!
MERLIN
He can't die. It is my destiny to protect him. We haven't done all the things we're
meant to do.
GAIUS
That is a lament of all men.
MERLIN
Gaius, he's my friend.
GAIUS
Then save him.
[Merlin uses magic to flip through the book.]
MERLIN
Gestathole.
[Nothing happens. Merlin flips through the book again.]
MERLIN
Thurhhaele.
[Nothing happens.]
MERLIN
Maybe the spells need time to take effect.
GAIUS
The bite of the Questing Beast is a death sentence that no magic can overturn.
UTHER
Where is the Prince?! Where is my son?!
[Uther enters.]
UTHER
Arthur!
[Merlin magically closes his magic book.]
UTHER
Do something, Gaius!
GAIUS
I am trying, your majesty.
MERLIN
Gaius will find a cure. He will not let him die.
GAIUS
I will do everything in my power.
[Uther desperately picks up Arthur himself.]
UTHER
I'll bear him to his chamber.
[Uther walks through the Square with Arthur in his arms, Merlin and Gaius
following. Uther collapses in his grief. four knights come to bear Arthur inside as
the King weeps on his knees. Morgana opens a window and watches the scene below.]
--
[Merlin rushes to the Dragon's Cave.]
MERLIN
I have failed Arthur, failed in my destiny.
KILGHARRAH
And yet, you would not be here if that were true.
MERLIN
He was bitten by the Questing Beast. He's going to die.
KILGHARRAH
Does he still breathe?
MERLIN
Only just.
KILGHARRAH
Then there is still time to heal him.
MERLIN
I've tried. I cannot save him.
KILGHARRAH
You do not know how to save him.
MERLIN
But you can tell me how?
KILGHARRAH
Perhaps. It will not be easy.
MERLIN
I will do anything.
KILGHARRAH
Anything?
MERLIN
Please, just tell me what I have to do!
KILGHARRAH
Very well. The Questing Beast is a creature conjured by the powers of the Old
Religion. You must use the same ancient magic to save him.
MERLIN
But the Old Religion died out centuries ago.
KILGHARRAH
The Old Religion is the magic of the earth itself. It is the essence which binds
all things together. It will last long beyond the time of men.
MERLIN
But how can that help me save Arthur?
KILGHARRAH
You must find those who still serve it. Those who hold dominion over life and
death.
MERLIN
Where?
KILGHARRAH
Go to the place that men call the Isle of the Blessed, where the power of the
ancients can still be felt. There you will discover Arthur's salvation.
MERLIN
Thank you. Thank you.
KILGHARRAH
And Merlin, the young Pendragon must live, no matter what the cost.
--
GAIUS
Merlin, you're back. I need your help. You must get this to Arthur to ease his
passing.
MERLIN
No. We have to save him.
[Merlin starts packing food.]
GAIUS
You've already tried.
MERLIN
The beast comes from the Old Religion. The cure must come from there as well.
GAIUS
There are not many left with such an art.
MERLIN
You said yourself, the Old Religion is still alive, and there is an island beyond
the White Mountains...
GAIUS
No!
MERLIN
The Isle of the Blessed...You know it?
GAIUS
It was said to be the centre of the Old Religion, the focus of its power.
MERLIN
Why did you keep this from me?
GAIUS
Because it was too dangerous, Merlin.
MERLIN
It's our only chance! I have to find it!
GAIUS
And once you are there, what will you ask?
MERLIN
For Arthur to be saved.
GAIUS
The Questing Beast chose Arthur. That means the Old Religion has decided his fate.
MERLIN
Then I will convince them to change their minds!
GAIUS
It is not that simple! The High Priests have the power to mirror life and death,
but there will be a price to pay. They will demand a life in return. Merlin,
please, I beg of you.
MERLIN
I'm sorry, Gaius. Whatever the price is, I will pay it gladly.
[Arthur lies dying in his bed.]
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, GATE – DAY]
[Merlin prepares his horse to leave. Gaius approaches him.]
GAIUS
Here.
[Gaius hands Merlin rolled parchment.]

GAIUS
You'll need a map. And I'm going to give you this. My mother gave it to me.
[Merlin unwraps tiny package.]
GAIUS
It's a rabbit's foot.
MERLIN
To keep you safe.
GAIUS
It was said to protect you from evil spirits. It's rubbish. I don't believe in
superstition. I don't know why I gave it to you.
[Gaius reaches to take it back.]
MERLIN
No. I want it. Thank you. (sigh) You've got to keep Arthur alive until I get back.
[Merlin mounts and rides off through the woods.]
--
[Arthur stirs in his fevered sleep. Uther watches him.]
UTHER
Shh. Sleep, Arthur.
--
[EXT. COUNTRYSIDE]
[Merlin travels through the countryside with the map.]
KILGHARRAH (voiceover)
You must travel to the place that men call the Isle of the Blessed. Beyond the
White Mountains, through the Valley of the Fallen Kings. To the north of the great
seas of [place name: Marador.], you will find a lake.
--
[Gaius asleep in the chair next to Arthur's sick bed. Gwen enters and knocks on the
door to wake Gaius.]
GWEN
Gaius? You should get some rest.
GAIUS
He must not be left alone.
GWEN
I will nurse him.
[Gaius leaves. Gwen takes the towel from Arthur's forehead, dips it in a bowl of
water, and sits on the bed to tend to him.]
GWEN
You're not going to die, Arthur. I'm telling you. Because I know that one day you
will be King. A greater king than you father could ever be. It's what keeps me
going. You are going to live to be the man I've seen inside you, Arthur. I can see
a Camelot that is fair and just. I can see a king that the people will love and be
proud to call their sovereign. For the love of Camelot, you have to live.
--
[A crowd gathers outside Arthur's window holding candles. Uther watches from the
Griffin Landing window. Gaius comes up behind him.]
GAIUS
Is there anything I can get your majesty?
UTHER
The people have begun to say goodbye.
GAIUS
He's not yet gone, Sire.
UTHER
But he will not recover.
GAIUS
Not without a miracle.
UTHER
I don't believe in miracles.
--
[EXT. ISLE OF THE BLESSED]
[Merlin approaches the lake, steps in a little boat.]
MERLIN
Astyre.
[The propels boat across the lake. Merlin steps out into the fortress on the island
and looks around.]
MERLIN
Hello?
NIMUEH
Hello, Merlin.
MERLIN
You.
NIMUEH
Do you know who I am?
MERLIN
Nimueh. You can't be who the dragon meant.
NIMUEH
And why is that?
MERLIN
You tried to kill me.
NIMUEH
Before I understood your importance.
MERLIN
And Arthur.
NIMUEH
Arthur was never destined to die at my hand, and now it seems I will be his
salvation.
MERLIN
So you know what I've come to ask?
NIMUEH
Yes.
MERLIN
Will you do it?
NIMUEH
I do not have the power to mirror life itself and yet give nothing in return.
MERLIN
I know that a price will be asked.
NIMUEH
To save a life, there must be a death. The balance of the world must be restored.
MERLIN
I willingly give my life for Arthur's.
NIMUEH
How brave you are, Merlin. If only it were that simple.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
NIMUEH
Once you enter into this bargain, it cannot be undone.
MERLIN
Whatever I have to do, I will do. His life is worth a hundred of mine.
NIMUEH
The Cup of Life, blessed by centuries of powerful sorcerers so that it contains the
very secret of life itself. If Arthur drinks water from the Cup, he will live.
[Merlin takes the Cup.]
NIMUEH
Tídrénas.
[Nimueh makes it rain on Merlin for a moment. Merlin collects the water in the Cup.
Nimueh takes the Cup and pours the water into a small, decorative canteen.]
NIMUEH
The bargain is struck. I hope it pleases you.
[Merlin rides into Camelot the next morning.]
--
GAIUS
Merlin!
MERLIN
We need to give this to Arthur.
[Merlin hands Gaius the decorative canteen.]
GAIUS
What is it?
MERLIN
Water drawn from the Cup of Life. If Arthur drinks from it, he will recover. Please
hurry.
[Gaius begins to walk out, but stops and faces Merlin.]
MERLIN
What are you waiting for?
GAIUS
What price did you pay to redeem his life? Whose life did you bargain?!
MERLIN
We don't have time.
GAIUS
Merlin!
MERLIN
Don't worry, Gaius! Everything's going to be alright.
[Gaius and Merlin giving Arthur the water. Uther enters.]
UTHER
What are you doing, physician? What are you giving him?
GAIUS
It's a... It's a tincture made from the lobelia plant, an ancient remedy for
poisonous bites.
UTHER
A cure?
GAIUS
We hope.
UTHER
Do you really think it will have some effect?
GAIUS
It's our last resort, Sire. Perhaps you should allow him to rest.
UTHER
I will not leave him.
[Gaius and Merlin exit. Uther sits by Arthur's bedside.]

--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR]
[Gaius and Merlin head down the corridor. Morgana grabs Merlin's arm and pulls him
into an alcove.]
MORGANA
Please, Merlin, you must beware. This is only the beginning.
[Merlin pulls away and continues down the corridor.]
--
[Gaius paces in Arthur's Chambers, Uther sleeps hunched over the bed. Arthur wakes.
Uther wakes.]
UTHER
Arthur.
[Arthur looks around and puts his head back down.]
--
[Gaius enters Physician's Chambers where Merlin is pacing.]
GAIUS
The Prince lives.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS.]
UTHER
I thought we'd lost you.
ARTHUR
Don't worry, Father, I'm not going to die. I think there's someone watching over
me, keeping me from harm.
UTHER
Maybe you're right. On your long journey to become King, you will need a guardian
angel. I shall inform the court that their Prince lives.
[Gwen enters as Uther exits. she puts down the towels she's carrying and looks
anxiously at Arthur. Arthur opens his eyes and turns to look at her. Gwen smiles in
relief.]
GWEN
I knew it. I said you'd be alright.
ARTHUR
I can remember you talking to me.
GWEN
You can?
ARTHUR
You stroked my forehead.
GWEN
I was tending to your fever.
ARTHUR
You never lost faith.
GWEN
I was just talking.
ARTHUR
Tell me again what you said?
GWEN
I don't remember.
ARTHUR
Yes, you do.
GWEN
No, I don't.
ARTHUR
Come on. Something about "the man I am inside."
GWEN
No, I never said that.
ARTHUR
Guinevere...
GWEN
I have to get these washed, Sire.
[Gwen exits hurriedly with the dirty cloths. Arthur grins in amusement.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Merlin sits on his bed, waiting to die, while a thunderstorm whips through the
night. A figure enters the Camelot on foot. A trembling diseased hand opens the
door to the Physician's Chambers. Morgana bolts awake screaming. Morning comes and
Merlin is still alive. He rushes out of his room.]
MERLIN
Gaius! I'm alive!
[Gaius is crouching over a collapsed figure on the floor.]
MERLIN
What is it? What's happened?
GAIUS
Merlin, stay there!
MERLIN
What's wrong?
GAIUS
No, don't!
[Merlin walks over to see Hunith, covered in sores, struggling to breathe on the
floor.]
MERLIN
Mother!
HUNITH
Merlin.
MERLIN
What's happened to her?
GAIUS
She's gravely ill.
MERLIN
Do something!
GAIUS
If I could.
MERLIN
Please, Gaius!
GAIUS
Merlin, this is no ordinary illness.
MERLIN
This cannot happen.
GAIUS
Who did you meet at the Isle of the Blessed?
MERLIN
Nimueh.
GAIUS
Nimueh?!
MERLIN
It was as you said. She demanded a price, but I bargained my life, not my mothers.
GAIUS
Merlin. I wish there was something I could do.
MERLIN
I will make you better. I will.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON’S CAVE]
MERLIN
You knew this would happen! You had me trade my mother's life for Arthur's!
KILGHARRAH
You said you would do anything.
MERLIN
Did you know my mother would die?
KILGHARRAH
I knew the price would be a heavy one.
MERLIN
But you sent me anyway.
KILGHARRAH
We need Arthur to live.
MERLIN
I'm not one of you!
KILGHARRAH W
e are both creatures of the Old Religion. It is the source of your power.
MERLIN
What's that supposed to mean?
KILGHARRAH
Your destiny is to protect the young Pendragon until he claims his crown. And when
he does, magic can be returned to the realm. Only then will I be free.
MERLIN
Oh. So that's all you cared about? I thought you were my friend.
KILGHARRAH
I am more than that, Merlin. I am your kin.
MERLIN
No. The only family I have is my mother, and you had me murder her.
KILGHARRAH
Her life has not been taken in vain. We will achieve great things together, you and
I.
MERLIN
You will never be released! For what you've done, I'll make sure you never see the
light.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin!
[The Great Dragon breathes fire at him.]
MERLIN
Gescildan!
[Merlin blocks the flames.]
MERLIN
You won't see me again.
--
[Merlin returns.]
MERLIN
Where is she?
GAIUS
She's sleeping.
MERLIN
I have to save her.
GAIUS
You cannot.
MERLIN
If the balance of the world needs a life, then Nimueh must take mine.
GAIUS
No, Merlin.
MERLIN
Yes. I will return to the island.
GAIUS
You are young. Your gifts, your destiny are far too precious to sacrifice.
MERLIN
My destiny? This is my mother. My powers mean nothing if I cannot save her. You
have taught me so much. Taught me who I am. Taught me the purpose for my skills.
Taught me that magic should only be used for great deeds. But most of all, you have
always taught me to do what is right.
GAIUS
Merlin.
MERLIN (sniffle)
I need to say goodbye to Arthur.
--
[Merlin enters as Arthur is pouring himself a drink, his other arm in a sling.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Merlin.
MERLIN
How are you?
ARTHUR
Good.
MERLIN
I'm pleased.
ARTHUR
Yes. I owe it all to Gaius.
MERLIN
I need to talk to you.
ARTHUR
You still haven't got it yet, have you? I decide when we need to talk.
MERLIN
Not today.
ARTHUR
I sometimes wonder if you know who I am.
MERLIN
Oh, I know who you are.
ARTHUR
Good.
MERLIN
You're a prat. And a royal one.
ARTHUR (chuckle)
Are you ever going to change, Merlin?
MERLIN
No, you'd get bored. But promise me this, if you get another servant, don't get a
bootlicker.
ARTHUR
If this is you trying to leave your job...
MERLIN
No. I'm happy to be your servant. Till the day I die.
ARTHUR
Sometimes I think I know you, Merlin. Other times... *shakes head*
MERLIN
Well, I know you. And you're a great warrior. One day, you'll be a great king.
ARTHUR
That's very kind of you.
MERLIN
But you must learn to listen as well as you fight.
ARTHUR
Any other pointers?
MERLIN
No. That's it. Just...don't be a prat.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER]
[Merlin enters his chamber where Gwen is sitting by Hunith's bedside.]
GWEN
Gaius had to go and get some supplies. He asked me to keep an eye on her until you
got back.
MERLIN
Thank you.
GWEN
I'm sorry.
MERLIN
No, she'll get better.
GWEN
I've tried to make her feel comfortable.
MERLIN
You have such a good heart, Gwen. Don't ever lose that.
[Gwen leaves and Merlin goes to sit with his mother.]
MERLIN
I'm going to make you well again. I promise. You'll see.
HUNITH
You're such a good son.
MERLIN
But I don't want you to worry about me. I know that the gods will look after me,
and that one day I will see you again.
HUNITH
I will miss you.
MERLIN
I will miss you, too.
[Merlin takes out the rabbit's foot and gives it to his mother.]
--
[Merlin comes out of his room and begins packing for his trip the next morning.]
MERLIN
Gaius?
[Merlin finds a note with his name on it. Merlin reads it while Gaius travels to
the Isle of the Blessed.]
GAIUS (voiceover)
Dear Merlin, My life is already near to its end. There has, for the most part, been
very little purpose to it, very little that will be remembered. In contrast,
Merlin, your life is destined for greatness. Live by the tenets I have taught you,
and I believe you will, in time, become the greatest warlock ever. To have known
you has been my greatest pleasure, and to sacrifice myself for you is but an
honour. You are and always will be the son I never had.
MERLIN
No!
[Merlin rides out of Camelot.]
--
[EXT. ISLE OF THE BLESSED]
[Gaius steps out of the boat onto the island.]
NIMUEH
I never thought I'd see you here again.
GAIUS
My Lady.
NIMUEH
It's a long time since you called me that.
GAIUS
I come to ask for your help.
NIMUEH
As you did once before for Uther? You did not like the outcome.
GAIUS
I offer a chance for you to atone for the death of his wife.
NIMUEH
I have saved the life of her son. What more do you ask for?
GAIUS
That this time, you take a just price. Merlin intends to offer his life for his
mother's. I want you to take mine in his place.
NIMUEH (laughs)
With all my powers of prediction, I could never have foretold this. Gaius the hero.
Why should I grant your wish? You stood and watched as our friends burned in the
Great Purge. You are nothing but a traitor.
GAIUS
Merlin is the one man who can bring magic back to this land. At Arthur's side, he
can help forge a new kingdom. A world of peace and beauty that we can only dream
of.
NIMUEH
And you're willing to give your life, Gaius, for the future they will bring? I'm
waiting. Are you ready to die, Gaius? Gaius?
GAIUS
For Merlin I will give my life.
[Merlin approaches edge of the lake of the Isle of the Blessed, he can hear
Nimueh.]
NIMUEH
Ic, séo héahsácerd, þe ácwile strengþe ealdan æwfæstnesse!
[Merlin rushes onto the island.]
MERLIN
Stop!
NIMUEH
Back again so soon, warlock?
MERLIN
What have you done?
NIMUEH
Your mother is safe. Isn't that what you wanted?
MERLIN
Have you killed him?
NIMUEH
It was his wish.
MERLIN
I bid my life for Arthur's, not my mother's, not Gaius's!
NIMUEH
The Old Religion does not care who lives and who dies! Only that the balance of the
world is restored. To save a life, a life must be taken. Gaius knew this.
MERLIN
It is not the Old Religion that has done this. It is you.
NIMUEH
Come now. We are too valuable to each other to be enemies.
MERLIN
No! I share nothing with you!
NIMUEH
With my help, Arthur will become King.
MERLIN
I will make Arthur King. But you will never see that day. Ástríce!
[Nimueh absorbs his attack.]
NIMUEH
Your childish tricks are useless against me, Merlin. I am a priestess of the Old
Religion. Forbærne! You, too, are a creature of the Old Religion. You should join
me.
MERLIN
You think I would join forces with such a selfish and cruel magic? Never.
NIMUEH
So be it. Ácwele!
[The spell hits Merlin.]
NIMUEH
Pity. Together we could've ruled the world.
[Nimueh walks away. Merlin gets up and glares at her.]
MERLIN
You should not have killed my friend.
[Merlin uses the power from the clouds to strike Nimueh down. Merlin runs to
Gaius.]
MERLIN
Gaius! Gaius!
[Merlin cradles unconscious Gaius.]
MERLIN
No! No! *cries*
GAIUS
Merlin.
MERLIN
Gaius. Gaius. Gaius, you're alive!
GAIUS
What did you do?
MERLIN
Nimueh's dead. The balance of the world has been restored.
GAIUS
You amaze me. You've mastered the power of life and death itself. We'll make a
great warlock of you yet.
MERLIN
So you believe in me now?
GAIUS
Well, I would do if...if you could stop this blasted rain.
[They laugh.]
KILGHARRAH
Merlin! No! *roar*
[Morgana wakes from a nightmare.]
Merlin will return
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:15
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BBC Merlin: 2x01 The Curse of Cornelius Sigan
<<< SERIES 1 │ EPISODE 2x02 >>>
KILGHARRAH
--
ARTHUR
Merlin. Merlin!
MERLIN
Yes, Sire?
ARTHUR
Are you deaf?
MERLIN
I wish.
ARTHUR
I want you to go down there and tell them to stop.
MERLIN
But they're working under the King's orders.
ARTHUR
Yeah. And you're working under mine.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORNELIUS SIGAN’S TOMB – NIGHT]
MERLIN
Hello?
--
MERLIN
How do you think he died? Gaius?
GAIUS
Hmm?
MERLIN
Do you know whose tomb it is?
GAIUS
Not sure.
MERLIN
Do you think it might be cursed?
GAIUS
You just saved my life. Thank you.
UTHER
...guarded at all times. Idiot.
ARTHUR
Were you born clumsy or do you work at it?
MERLIN
It's just one of my many gifts.
UTHER
Well this is quite a find. You see, Gaius, I was right. There is treasure to be
found under Camelot. Which of my predecessors do I have to thank for all this?
Gaius?
GAIUS
Uh, I'd have to look into it, Sire.
UTHER
How did he die?
GAIUS
He seems to have unwittingly triggered a trap here.
ARTHUR
To deter grave robbers
UTHER
Well there's plenty in here people would want to steal. Have them secure the tomb.
Guarding it is your responsibility, Arthur.
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
--
[INT. LOWER TOWN, TAVERN – NIGHT]
CEDRIC
So this jewel, what size would you say it was?
TOM
About that size.
CEDRIC
My word, really? About that size, you say? Well, I never. Here you are. Drink up.
And, uh, this
tomb. I bet they got that locked up nice and safe, haven't they?
TOM
Tighter than the King's coffers.
CEDRIC
Yeah. Must be a way in, though.
TOM
Only with the keys.
CEDRIC
Right, right, right. And who's got the keys?
TOM
You must think I'm stupid. I'm not telling you that.
CEDRIC
Course not. No, a bright lad like you knows what that sort of information's worth.
No, we don't want everyone to see. Believe me, this place is full of thieves and
finger-smiths. Put it inside your tunic. And, uh, careful of that fellow over
there.
TOM
Which one?
CEDRIC
Far end of the bar. See him? He keeps on watching you.
TOM
Yeah, yeah, yeah. With, with the beard.
CEDRIC
No, no. That one.
TOM
Ah, I got my eye on him. Thank you.
CEDRIC
So who's got the keys?
TOM
Only the Prince. But don't get your hopes up. He keeps them in his private
chambers, and there's only one person allowed in there: his servant.
--
ARTHUR
Hurry up, Merlin.
MERLIN
Sorry.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
I don't understand.
ARTHUR
Well, there's a surprise.
MERLIN
I did that girth up myself.
ARTHUR
Well, I think that might have been the problem!
MERLIN
It wasn't my fault.
CEDRIC
Would you like me to fit the girth properly for you, Sire.
ARTHUR
Thank you.
CEDRIC
It's an honour to be of service to the Prince.
ARTHUR
An honour. Do you hear that Merlin?
CEDRIC
Allow me the honour of brushing your clothes down.
ARTHUR (whispers)
The honour.
CEDRIC
Anything else I can do for you, sir.
ARTHUR
Well, you can give Merlin here a kick up the backside.
CEDRIC (chuckles)
I wouldn't wish to deprive you of the pleasure, sir.
ARTHUR Ha! What's your name?
CEDRIC
Cedric. I've come to Camelot in search of work.
ARTHUR
Good. You can be a beater on the hunt. We're short of a man or two.
CEDRIC
You're too kind, Sire.
MERLIN
Here. You'll need a beater. Oh, sorry.
--
MERLIN
Flíe 'fǽgð.
ARTHUR
Who threw that?
CEDRIC
*ahem*
ARTHUR
Was it you? You just saved my life.
CEDRIC
Honestly, Sire, it was nothing.
ARTHUR
I shall be forever indebted to you. You must be rewarded.
CEDRIC
No, I couldn't possibly.
ARTHUR
Come on. What do you wish for?
CEDRIC
I desire only one thing, Sire.
ARTHUR
Anything.
CEDRIC
A position in the royal household.
ARTHUR
Good. Consider it done. Ha-ha!
CEDRIC
You can have that back.
MERLIN
Oof!
CEDRIC
Oh, sorry.
--
GAIUS
What's wrong?
MERLIN
I saved Arthur's life, someone else got the credit. Just the usual. What are you
doing?
GAIUS
I found this inscription on the sceptre.
MERLIN
What language is that?
GAIUS
I don't know. Sigan would have known many languages.
MERLIN
Sigan?
GAIUS
It's his tomb.
MERLIN
Who's he?
GAIUS
Merlin, he was the most powerful sorcerer to have lived.
MERLIN
Really?
GAIUS
You didn't grow up in Camelot, but for those of us that did, Cornelius Sigan was a
figure of nightmare.
MERLIN
Why?
GAIUS
Sigan's powers. He could change day into night, turn the tides, and legend has it,
his spells helped build Camelot itself.
MERLIN
What happened?
GAIUS
In the end he grew to powerful and the king at that time ordered his execution.
MERLIN
If he's dead, why are you so worried?
GAIUS
Sigan couldn't bear the thought that his wealth and power would die with him, so he
became obsessed with finding a way to defeat death itself.
MERLIN
You think he might have succeeded?
GAIUS
Let's hope not, for all our sakes.
--
UTHER
Gaius. What is it you want?
GAIUS
To seal up the burial chamber and all its contents.
UTHER
Don't be ridiculous.
GAIUS
The insignia on this ring belongs to Cornelius Sigan. I believe it to be hid tomb.
In the Old Religion, the name Sigan means raven.
UTHER
No wonder the riches are so great.
GAIUS
Then you are aware of the legends, Sire?
UTHER
Yes. I have always enjoyed the tale of the arrogant sorcerer who came to an
untimely end.
GAIUS
According to the story, Sigan cursed Camelot. He said he would return and raze the
city to the ground.
UTHER
Gaius, you have long been my ally in the war against sorcery. You, more than
anyone, should not give in to these irrational fears.
GAIUS
Thank you, Sire.
UTHER
And Gaius. Do not spread panic amongst my people. This is foolish superstition,
nothing more.
--
MORGANA
Ah! Gwen? Gwen!
GWEN
My Lady? My Lady, what's the matter? It's alright, it's alright. I'm here. I'm
here. There's nothing to be frightened of. Shh, shh, shh.
--
ARTHUR
Is that lunch?
MERLIN
No, it's breakfas...
ARTHUR
This is lovely, Cedric.
MERLIN
Is there anything else that you need doing, Sire?
ARTHUR
No, I think Cedric's got it all covered
CEDRIC
Oh, I regret, Sire, there is one thing I failed to do. Uh, muck out your horses.
ARTHUR
Off you go.
CEDRIC
I'll get the door for you.
--
GAIUS
What was this dream about?
MORGANA
A bird.
GAIUS
What kind of bird?
MORGANA
A raven.
GAIUS
A raven?
MORGANA
It was terrifying, Gaius. What do you think it means?
GAIUS
Probably nothing.
MORGANA
It's happening again, isn't it?
GAIUS
Morgana, one raven doesn't mean that your nightmares are returning. Are you taking
the sleeping draughts I prepared for you? I'll get Gwen to give you something
stronger.
MORGANA
Like a blow to the head? I'm sure she wants to.
--
[INT. ROYAL STABLES – DAY]
CEDRIC
Go on. Go and have some fun. Go on. Go and have some fun.
GUARD
Sire!
MERLIN
Sire!
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
MERLIN
Nothing.
ARTHUR
I can see that.
MERLIN
I wasn't sleeping. I was, I was just bending down.
ARTHUR
Looking for something.
MERLIN
Yes.
ARTHUR
Perhaps we're looking for the same thing.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Oh, I don't know, the horses!
MERLIN
The hor-ses. Oh!
ARTHUR
One mistake I can understand. Everyone has a bad day now and then, but this is one
thing after another!
MERLIN
I--I don't know what happened!
CEDRIC
Sire. Please, Sire, don't be too hard on him. He's a good servant, he just...he's
tired.
MERLIN
I am not
CEDRIC
Maybe...maybe if he had the evening off...
MERLIN
I don't want the evening off.
CEDRIC
A good night's rest...
MERLIN
I did not fall asleep!
CEDRIC
I'm more than willing to take over his duties tonight.
ARTHUR
Perhaps you're right.
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
Shut up, Merlin.
MERLIN
Can't you see what he's trying to do? He's trying to get rid of me, and if you
weren't such a clotpole. you'd see that!
ARTHUR
A what?
CEDRIC
Clotpole. He, he said clotpole.
ARTHUR
Cedric's right. He can look after me tonight. You can go home and think about
whether you want to be my servant or not.
MERLIN
But...
ARTHUR
Go.
--
GAIUS
What's that on your face?
MERLIN
Nothing.
GAIUS
What's wrong?
MERLIN
Nothing.
GAIUS
Here.
MERLIN
I'm not an idiot.
GAIUS
What happened?
MERLIN
I just want Arthur to trust me. And to see me for who I really am.
GAIUS
One day he will.
MERLIN
When? Everything I do is for him and he just thinks I'm an idiot.
GAIUS
Not everyone thinks you're an idiot. Although, looking at you now...Now is not the
time to be questioning these things, Merlin. I believe that you and Arthur are
destined for greatness, and that your calling is to serve and protect him.
MERLIN
It's hard.
GAIUS
I know it's hard. But Camelot is in grave peril. I've translated the inscription.
"He who breaks my heart completes my work."
MERLIN
What does it mean?
GAIUS
Do you remember the stone in the tomb, how it glowed?
MERLIN
Yeah. I've never seen a jewel like it.
GAIUS
That's because it's not a jewel, it's the soul of Cornelius Sigan.
MERLIN
You think he's alive?
GAIUS
His soul is. But in order to truly live, a soul needs a body.
MERLIN
So, if the stone is removed from its setting, then the heart is broken and the soul
released?
GAIUS
That's what I fear.
--
CEDRIC
I'll be right outside in the anteroom should you need anything.
ARTHUR
That'll be all, Cedric.
CEDRIC
Sleep well, Sire.
--
CEDRIC
Oh, yes. Oh, yes! Oh, yes. Oh, yes. Ha. Hello ladies.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORNELIUS SIGAN’S TOMB – DAY]
ARTHUR
Sound the warning bell.
GAIUS
Merlin. Whoever did this got more than they bargained for.
MERLIN
I don't understand how they got in. The gate's not even damaged.
GAIUS
They must've used a key.
MERLIN
Arthur's got the only key.
GAIUS
Where does he keep it?
MERLIN
On his belt with the others.
GAIUS
Does he ever take it off?
MERLIN
Only when he's asleep. He keeps it next to his bed.
GAIUS
Who had access to his chambers last night?
MERLIN
Just me. And...Cedric.
--
MERLIN
Cedric is possessed by an evil spirit.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
He tried to steal the jewel, but it wasn't a jewel, it was a soul of an ancient
sorcerer, Sigan.
ARTHUR
Merlin, have you been on the cider?
MERLIN
Please, listen to me. Camelot is in mortal danger. Sigan is using Cedric's body to
take his revenge.
ARTHUR
This nonsense isn't helping you keep your job.
MERLIN
You are not listening to me!
ARTHUR
You're going to shout anyway? Cedric! Will you escort Merlin from the palace?
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
Ah!
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
Ah!
ARTHUR
You've gone too far this time, Merlin! You can spend a few days cooling off in the
cells! Guards!
MERLIN
He's going to destroy Camelot!
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS/DRAWBRIDGE – NIGHT]
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
I am returned. Ic cume eft to Camelot. swá þæt ic mæg min fæhþ awrecan! Nu 'ic
lybbe ece and ic mæg rædan min burh!
GWEN
Ahhh!
--
UTHER
I don't know what this creature is, where it's come from.
ARTHUR
There's more than one, Father. We've had several reports. There's panic in the
lower town. People are fleeing the city.
UTHER
Then you must hunt these creatures down and kill them.
ARTHUR
Yes, Sire.
--
UTHER
Have you seen what's happening?
GAIUS
It is as I warned you, Sire.
UTHER
This cannot be Sigan.
GAIUS
It is his revenge, he has come back from the dead.
UTHER
Then he will die again.
GAIUS
You do not understand, sir. You cannot kill a man who has conquered mortality.
UTHER
Don't tell me what cannot be done. Camelot will not fall to a sorcerer while I'm
King.
--
MERLIN
Hello?!
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – NIGHT]
ARTHUR
Regroup! Low fight!
--
MERLIN
Tóspringe!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, TEMPORARY WARD – NIGHT]
GAIUS
We need more bandages, Gwen. You shouldn't be doing this.
MORGANA
It's exactly what I should be doing.
GAIUS
You need rest, Morgana.
MORGANA
And I'm likely to get it with all this going on.
--
ARTHUR
Guinevere?
GWEN
Sire.
ARTHUR
That thing could've killed you.
GWEN
And it still might! Sorry, Sire.
ARTHUR
No. My pleasure.
--
GWEN
I'll get you something to stop the bleeding.
ARTHUR
Guinevere. I wanted to say...just, uh...you always surprise me.
GWEN
Is that it, Sire?
ARTHUR
That's it. Oh, and uh...thank you.
--
UTHER
Arthur.
ARTHUR
It's nothing.
UTHER
Have we driven the creatures out?
ARTHUR
They have control of the lower town. The market has been all but destroyed.
UTHER
How many dead?
ARTHUR
Too many to number.
UTHER
I'm sealing the citadel.
ARTHUR
You can't.
UTHER
I have no choice. I have to protect those who have a chance. If I don't, we will
all fall. Where are you going?
ARTHUR
There are people trapped on the drawbridge.
UTHER
I forbid you.
ARTHUR
I'm not leaving them to die.
UTHER
It's suicide!
ARTHUR
It's my duty to Camelot! And to myself!
--
MERLIN
Gaius.
GAIUS
MERLIN
I have to help Arthur.
GAIUS
Merlin, Sigan's power is far beyond yours.
MERLIN
I don't have a choice.
GAIUS
But Sigan is immortal and you are not. If you face him, he will destroy you.
MERLIN
But there must be a way.
GAIUS
There is only one alive who is old enough to give us the answers we need.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
GAIUS
The Great Dragon.
MERLIN
You knew that...that I used to visit him.
GAIUS
Yes, Merlin, of course I knew. You're a creature of magic, just as he is. I hoped
that he could help you.
MERLIN
He helps no one but himself.
GAIUS
For Arthur's sake you must go to him now.
MERLIN
I can't.
GAIUS
We have no choice.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE – NIGHT]
ARTHUR
Check for survivors. On me! Charge!
--
MERLIN
Hello?! Hello?! Please, I need your help!
KILGHARRAH
You told me I would not see you again.
MERLIN
I'm not here for myself, I'm here for Arthur.
KILGHARRAH
Arthur's path lies with yours. You have made it clear that you do not walk in step
with me.
MERLIN
You cannot want Cornelius Sigan to win. You're not evil.
KILGHARRAH
At least Sigan knows where his loyalties lie. You have shown that you do not.
MERLIN
So you will let Camelot fall?
KILGHARRAH
I did not say that.
MERLIN
Then you will help me?
KILGHARRAH
To defeat Sigan, you will need a spell more powerful than anything you know.
MERLIN
Please, I have to try.
KILGHARRAH
Very well. But you must give me something in return.
MERLIN
What?
KILGHARRAH
A promise.
MERLIN
A promise?
KILGHARRAH
That one day you will free me.
MERLIN
If I release you, what will you do?
KILGHARRAH
That is not your concern.
MERLIN
I don't trust you!
KILGHARRAH
Nevertheless, you must promise, or Camelot will fall.
MERLIN
I promise. Now, please, give me the spell.
KILGHARRAH
Close your eyes and open your mind. Few men have ever been gifted such knowledge.
Use it wisely.
MERLIN
I will.
KILGHARRAH
You made a promise, young warlock, and one day I shall keep you to it.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWDRIDGE/MAIN SQUARE – NIGHT]
SIR GERAINT
Arthur! Arthur! Retreat! Regroup in the square! Arthur? Arthur? Arthur?!
ARTHUR
Save yourselves! That's an order!
SIR GERAINT
Retreat! Retreat!
--
SIR GERAINT
Seal the doors!
UTHER
Where's Arthur? Where is he? You can't leave him out there, he'll be torn apart!
SIR GERAINT
You can't go out there, Sire! If you open that door, you will die! We will all die!
UTHER
No!
--
MERLIN
Astrice!
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
Who would've believed it? You, a sorcerer, and a powerful one.
MERLIN
I won't let you hurt him
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
And you're going to stop me?
MERLIN
I'll stop you.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
He does not deserve your loyalty. He treats you like a slave.
MERLIN
That's not true.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
He cast you aside without a moment's thought.
MERLIN
That doesn't matter.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
But it must hurt so much to be so put upon, so overlooked, when all the while you
have such power.
MERLIN
That's the way it has to be.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
Does it? You're young, Merlin. Look inside yourself. You have yet to discover your
true power. I can help you. Think, Merlin. To have the world appreciate your
greatness. To have Arthur know you for what you are.
MERLIN
That can never be.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
It can, if you join me. Together we can rule over this land. Arthur will tremble at
your voice, he will kneel at your feet.
MERLIN
I don't want that.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
You'd rather be a servant?
MERLIN
Better to serve a good man that to rule with an evil one.
SIGAN (CEDRIC)
So be it. If you will not join me, I will become you and your power will be
harnessed to my will.
MERLIN
Ic þín sáwol hér beléac, abide þæt ic þé álíese!
GAIUS
Merlin? Well done, my boy.
--
UTHER
We must learn our lessons from these terrible events, Gaius.
GAIUS
Indeed, Sire.
UTHER
They prove beyond doubt that I was right. Magic is evil. It is our greatest threat.
I have grown complacent, Gaius.
GAIUS
I wouldn't say that, Sire.
UTHER
We must renew our efforts. We must ensure that all sorcerers and their followers
are eradicated from this kingdom.
GAIUS
Of course, Sire.
--
GAIUS
You know, you won't get any thanks, Merlin.
MERLIN
I'm not a complete idiot.
GAIUS
There you go. It's not much, but you deserve something.
ARTHUR
I've come to see Merlin. I've not forgotten about your lazy, insolent ways, or the
fact that you called me a clotpole, but I do have to admit that there was some
truth in your accusations against Cedric.
MERLIN
Does this mean you're admitting that in this occasion I was actually right?
ARTHUR
Not exactly, no. It means that I have a knighthood to bestow first thing tomorrow
and no one to clean my armour.
MERLIN
All that?
ARTHUR
Yep.
GAIUS
Clotpole?
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:17
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BBC Merlin: 2x02 The Once and Future Queen
KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. ODIN'S CASTLE.]
KELDA
My Lord, he is here.
KING ODIN
You are Myror? Legend has it, you are the most feared assassin in all the known
lands. Tell me, are you as ruthless as they say you are? You would kill anyone?
MYROR
I have killed many people. They are all the same to me.
KING ODIN
You are prepared to kill royalty?
MYROR
My Lord, you would already be dead had someone placed a bounty on you.
KING ODIN
I want you to kill the man who murdered my son. I want you to kill Arthur
Pendragon.
--
MERLIN
That has got to hurt.
ARTHUR
That's the point, Merlin. It's not a pillow fight. Fetch me another lance, will
you? Why did you pull out, I was wide open? You could have unhorsed me.
SIR LEON
I was fearful that I might injure you, Sire.
ARTHUR
You had the advantage. You can't afford to hesitate.
SIR LEON
I wouldn't have done if I were facing a different opponent. You are the future
King, My Lord.
ARTHUR
You jousted against me in the tournament last year. Are you saying you let me win?
SIR LEON
No, My Lord.
ARTHUR
It doesn't matter who I am! I do not expect any special treatment from you, from
any of you! Is that understood?
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
ARTHUR
How am I going to prove myself if my opponents aren't trying their hardest?
MERLIN
I'm sure it's not happening all the time.
ARTHUR
So it's happening some of the time?
MERLIN
No I'm certain it isn't.
ARTHUR
Now you're doing it! You're telling me exactly what you think I want to hear!
MERLIN
Yes. Er...no. Er...what was the question?
ARTHUR
That just proves it. All my life I've been treated as if I'm special. I just want
to be treated just like everyone else.
MERLIN
Really?
ARTHUR
You have no idea how lucky you are.
MERLIN
Well, anytime you want to swap places, just let me know.
ARTHUR
That's not a totally stupid idea.
MERLIN
You're Prince Arthur. You can't change who you are.
ARTHUR
Yes I can.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM – NIGHT.]
[Uther and Arthur eat dinner..]
ARTHUR
We've received reports that a beast has been sighted roaming the forest near the
northern borders.
UTHER
What's the nature of this beast?
ARTHUR
It is said to have the body of a lion, the wings of an eagle, and the...face of a
bear. I believe it has been conjured by sorcery.
UTHER
Then we must destroy it.
ARTHUR
I'll leave for the northern borders in the morning.
UTHER
But you'll miss the tournament.
ARTHUR
As much as I want to compete, my duty to Camelot comes first.
UTHER
You are right, of course.
--
[EXT. WOODS SURROUNDING CAMELOT – DAY]
ARTHUR
I'll meet you here in four days. You must tell no one I've returned to Camelot.
You're late.
MERLIN
Sorry. Gaius had me wa...ing the floors. I couldn't...
ARTHUR
What is that smell? Whose clothes are these?
MERLIN
They're mine. I washed them specially. You sure this is a good idea?
ARTHUR
Seems pretending to be somebody else is the only way to get people to be honest
with me. Grab my bag, will you?
MERLIN
If you want to pass as a peasant, you should probably carry your own bag.
ARTHUR
You're forgetting something, Merlin. No one will know it's my bag.
MERLIN
There must be easier ways to prove yourself.
ARTHUR
Shut up, Merlin.
--
KELDA
I was there in person. Odin has put a price on Prince Arthur's head.
UTHER
Surely he wouldn't dare.
KELDA
He's blinded by grief, My Lord. The assassin Myror has accepted the bounty.
UTHER
I've heard of this Myror.
KELDA
I believe he's heading for Camelot as we speak. I bring you this information at
great risk to myself.
UTHER
Double the guards. I want this assassin intercepted before he reaches Camelot.
--
[EXT. WOODS – DAY]
[Myror waits to assassinate Arthur, but he's not with the men supposedly going to
the northern borders.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur enter, Arthur's hood obscureshis face.]
GWEN
My Lord.
ARTHUR
Guinevere. It's good of you to let me stay in your home.
GWEN
I'm happy to help.
MERLIN (whisper)
Food.
GWEN
I'll prepare some food for you. (whisper to Merlin) I can't believe you talked me
into this!
ARTHUR (hushed)
You can't really expect me to stay here.
MERLIN (hushed)
We need to keep you out of sight. We can trust Gwen not to tell anyone you're here.
ARTHUR (hushed)
I doubt anyone would believe it.
MERLIN (hushed)
You really can't go without your big bed and your soft pillows?
ARTHUR (hushed)
This will be fine.
ARTHUR
How are the preparations coming along? Have we found someone to play our knight in
the tournament?
MERLIN
Absolutely. He's a famer from one of the outlying villages, and no one will
recognise him.
ARTHUR
But does he look the part?
--
[Merlin, Arthur, and Gwen look William over.]
ARTHUR
Great.
MERLIN
From now on, you're Sir William of Daira. Imagine you're really...arrogant. Knights
like to think they're so much better than everyone else.
ARTHUR
It's not arrogance. Ignore him, he's an idiot. A knight must behave with honour and
nobility. That's...better. You must convince everyone that you were born into a
noble family.
WILLIAM
Polish my armour, boy.
ARTHUR
Now you're gettin' the hang of it.
[William laughs.]
ARTHUR
That's a good point, you do need to polish our armour.
WILLIAM
Yeah. (laughs)
--
[Merlin flops onto his own bed.]
GAIUS
Glad to see you're resting, Merlin. I take it that mean you've got the energy to
clean my leech tank.
MERLIN
Ugh.
--
[Gwen sweeps her house while Arthur finishes his drink.]
ARTHUR
It's been a long day. I think I'll turn in for the night. Is this my bed?
GWEN
Of course. I hope you'll be comfortable.
ARTHUR
I'm sure I will be. Goodnight, Guinevere.
GWEN
Goodnight, My Lord.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, GUARDS’ CORRIDOR – NIGHT]
[Myror scales the wall into the castle.]
GUARD
Halt! Show yourself. What business do you have in the King's palace?
MYROR
I came to seek an audience with, er, with Prince Arthur.
GUARD
What's your name?
MYROR
My name is Myror.
--
[Myror grabs a guard, Fyren, covering his mouth before releasing him.]
FYREN
Why are you here?
MYROR
Your information was wrong. Prince Arthur is not among the party travelling to the
northern borders.
FYREN
The Prince left with them yesterday.
MYROR
Then they must have separated. Perhaps he has returned to Camelot.
FYREN
Not that I've heard. His return would've been announced at court.
MYROR
It would seem the Prince does not want to be found. Hmm.
--
[INT/EXT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, ARTHUR’S TENT – DAY]
[Merlin and cloaked Arthur head to his tent. Uther walks into the stands and the
knights enter on horseback to stand before the King.]
ARTHUR
Now, remember the plan. I'm competing in the tournament, but no one will know that
it's me. All you have to do is acknowledge the crowd at the end of the match. Act
like you belong there and people will believe that you do.
UTHER
Knights of the realm, welcome to Camelot. You've trained for this day for many
years.
MERLIN
Well, he hasn't fallen off his horse.
UTHER (background)
...our bravery, strength...
ARTHUR
I suppose that's something.
UTHER
...and your skill to the test. Today you will fight for glory and for honour. For
this is the ultimate test of courage. And it will be the measure of you as men. For
only the most skilful, the most fearless among you will emerge as a worthy
champion.
WILLIAM
They're ready for you, Sire.
--
[EXT/INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, ARTHUR’S TENT – DAY]
[The jousting tournament begins. Gwen cheers for Arthur enthusiastically as he wins
each match. Myror also watches. Arthur enters his tent and tosses William his
helmet.]
ARTHUR
You must go and acknowledge the crowd.
WILLIAM
How do you do that?
ARTHUR
You wave, they cheer. It's not difficult. I do all the work, someone else gets all
the praise.
MERLIN
Know the feeling.
ARTHUR
When I win this tournament, I'll reveal my true identity, get the credit I deserve.
MERLIN
Of course you will.
ARTHUR
Well don't just stand there. Help me off with my armour. And remember to polish it
before tomorrow. The horse needs grooming. And don't forget to repair the broken
lances.
--
[Fyren sits next to Myror in the stands.]
MYROR
Do you have news on the whereabouts of Prince Arthur?
FYREN
Everyone believes he is travelling to the northern borders, but I've discovered
that Arthur's servant remains in Camelot.
MYROR
Who is this servant?
FYREN
That's him.
MYROR
Why is he working for another knight?
--
[Merlin tries to sneak past Gaius to his room. Gaius turns and stares at him.]
MERLIN
Is this about the leech tank?
GAIUS
How very perceptive of you, Merlin.
MERLIN
I'll clean it tomorrow.
GAIUS
And will that be before or after you've scrubbed the floors and done the laundry?
--
[Gwen clears the table after dinner.]
GWEN
From what I hear, the ladies of the court are quite impressed with Sir William.
They think he's very handsome.
ARTHUR
Typical. He wouldn't know a real knight if he whacked him round the head with his
lance.
GWEN
Why are you doing this?
ARTHUR
I fear that people respect me just because of my title.
GWEN
I don't believe that's true of everyone.
ARTHUR
Would you tell me if it were?
GWEN
No.
ARTHUR
When I'm competing as William, my title doesn't matter, nobody gives me any special
treatment. So when I win this tournament...if I win this tournament, it will be
because I deserve it and not because I am Prince Arthur. I think I'll take a bath.
GWEN
That might be difficult seeing as I don't have a bathtub.
ARTHUR
Really? Er...perhaps you could prepare me a bowl of hot water. I take it you have a
bowl.
GWEN
I think I can manage a bowl. Just walk all the way down to the well and fetch some
water then, shall I?
--
[Merlin asleep on the floor, his hands still holding the brush and bucket. Gaius
enters.]
GAIUS
Merlin, on your feet. Arthur may be away, but I'm not. And why is my leech tank
still dirty? Where do you get the idea you can sit around all day doing nothing?
MERLIN
Wha..? Do you think I sit around doing nothing?! I haven't had a chance to sit
around and do nothing since the day I arrived in Camelot! I'm too busy running
around after Arthur! Do this, Merlin! Do that, Merlin! And when I'm not running
around after Arthur, I'm doing chores for you! And if I'm not doing that, I'm
fulfilling my destiny! Do you know how many times I've saved Arthur's life? I've
lost count. Do I get any thanks? No. I have fought griffins, witches, er...bandits,
I have be punched, poisoned, pelted with fruit, and all the while I have to hide
who I really am, because if anyone finds out, Uther will have me executed!
Sometimes I feel like I'm being pulled in so many directions, I don't know which
way to turn!
--
[INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, ARTHUR’S TENT – DAY]
MERLIN
Sir Alinor has advanced to the final.
--
[Arthur faces Sir Leon. Arthur wins and everyone rises to their feet cheering
except Gwen.]
GAIUS
You're not impressed by this Sir William of Daira.
GWEN
I believe he's an arrogant pig.
--
[Merlin and William waiting in the tent.]
MERLIN
Congratulations, you are in the final.
ARTHUR
Go on then. You're people await you. No one can say Sir Leon let me win this time.
MERLIN
Sounds like the crowd've really taken to William.
ARTHUR
That will change when I reveal my identity.
MERLIN
You really miss getting all the attention, don't you?
ARTHUR
Just go and water the horse, will you?
--
[Merlin brings the horse to the water trough. Myror approaches him.]
MYROR
He's a fine horse. I see your master has advanced to the final. He's extremely
skilled with a lance.
MERLIN
He's doing well. Just one more match to go.
MYROR
Tell me, what is he like to work for?
MERLIN
Between you and me? He can be a bit of a prat.
MYROR (laughs)
So you are no longer working for Prince Arthur?
MERLIN
No. Yes, yes. Not right now. Arthur's away. I'm just...helping out.
MYROR
Well, I, erm, I wish your master luck in the final.
MERLIN
Thanks.
--
[Gwen sweeps the pantry where she's been sleeping when Arthur enters through the
front door.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere?
GWEN
Just a minute.
ARTHUR
Do you have a needle and threat. My shirt needs mending.
GWEN
Erm...
ARTHUR
Is this where you sleep? Where's your bed?
GWEN
You're sleeping in it.
ARTHUR
Why didn't you say something?
GWEN
How could I? You're Prince Arthur. Besides, you didn't give me the chance. You just
assumed the bed was yours.
ARTHUR
Well, how am I supposed to know if you don't tell me?
GWEN
You shouldn't need to be told to think of someone other than yourself, you're not a
child.
ARTHUR
Is there anything else you'd like to say to me? Please, I'd like to hear it. If
there's something you want to say to me, don't let me stop you.
GWEN
You don't have any idea, do you?
ARTHUR
About what?
GWEN
About how rude and arrogant you can be! This is my home and you are my guest in it!
I know you are used to more luxurious quarters, but that is not an excuse to be so
rude! You claim titles don't matter to you, but you behave like a prince and expect
me to wait on you like a servant! Saying it means nothing if your actions betray
you! Would it kill you to say please and thank you once in a while?! My Lord.
ARTHUR
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
GWEN
No, I think that's it.
ARTHUR
You're right. You have invited me into your home and I have behaved appallingly.
GWEN
I didn't mean to make you feel bad.
ARTHUR
Oh, really?
GWEN
Well, perhaps a little.
ARTHUR
There's no excuse. I'll make it up to you. Tonight, I will make dinner for you.
GWEN
You're going to cook me dinner?
ARTHUR
I most certainly am. Now go for a walk or do whatever it is that girls do at this
time of the evening...
GWEN
A walk would be nice.
ARTHUR
...and your dinner will be ready when you return.
--
[Merlin meets Gwen in the street as she walks away from her house.]
MERLIN
Where's Arthur?
GWEN
He's cooking me dinner.
MERLIN
Arthur's cooking?
--
[Merlin enters. Arthur is staring hopelessly at a raw chicken.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, thank God.
MERLIN
Gwen says you're cooking.
ARTHUR
I need you to fetch me two dinners from the palace kitchens.
MERLIN
So...you're not cooking.
ARTHUR
No, but Gwen doesn't need to know that. As far as she's concerned, dinner will be
prepared and cooked by me.
MERLIN
You're trying to impress her?
ARTHUR
Don't be ridiculous, Merlin. And get me a decent shirt, will you? Your clothes are
making me itch all over, it's like having fleas.
--
[Myror snoops around when Merlin comes in to get a shirt. Myror hides, ready to
kill Merlin with a dagger, but Merlin leaves and Myror follows him out.]
--
[Arthur watches the window for Gwen while Merlin sets the table.]
ARTHUR
She's coming. Quick, out the back way. Do something with this.
[Arthur tosses Merlin the raw chicken.]
MERLIN
Hope Gwen's impressed with your cooking.
[Merlin leaves and Arthur spins around as Gwen opens front the door.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere. Perfect timing.
[Arthur pulls out her seat for her.]
GWEN
Thank you.
[Myror watches from the window and preps a mini crossbow.]
GWEN
This is delicious.
ARTHUR
I'm glad you like it.
--
[The night patrol interrupts Myror's assassination attempt.]
GUARD
Halt! You! Stop right there!
GUARD
Did you see him?
[Myror escapes by hanging under the drawbridge.]
--
[Merlin puts cooked chicken on the table as Gaius enters.]
MERLIN
Dinner's ready. What I said this morning...
GAIUS
It is I who should be apologising to you. I have failed to appreciate just how
heavy your burden must be.
MERLIN
I shouldn't've lost my temper with you.
GAIUS
It's no wonder you're upset. There's so much resting on your young shoulders. Now
that Arthur's away, you must take time to enjoy yourself.
MERLIN
What about the leech tank?
GAIUS
Don't even think about the leech tank.
MERLIN
Really?
GAIUS
All this talk of leeches will put us off our dinner. Where'd that chicken come
from? Come in!
SIR LEON
The King commands your presence immediately.
--
[Uther, Gaius, Merlin, and Leon inspect the body of the guard Myror killed.]
UTHER
Can you determine a cause of death?
GAIUS
His neck's been broken. There's scarcely a mark on the flesh. Whoever killed him
knew exactly what he was doing.
SIR LEON
Earlier this evening, an intruder was spotted in the lower town.
UTHER
Then I fear it's true, Odin has sent an assassin to kill Arthur.
MERLIN
An assassin?
UTHER
Have you any word from Arthur since he left for the northern borders?
MERLIN
No. None.
UTHER
With this assassin in Camelot, we must be thankful Arthur isn't here. Search the
entire town. I want the assassin found before Arthur returns.
--
[Arthur and Gwen smile at dinner.]
ARTHUR
So, do I have any more annoying habits you wish to tell me about?
GWEN
No, none.
ARTHUR
There's something else, isn't there? What is it?
GWEN
Well, the truth is...you snore.
ARTHUR
I do not snore.
GWEN
You do. The first night you were here, I thought a pig had got into the house.
ARTHUR
So now I'm a pig. Thank you, Guinevere.
GWEN
I just meant you sound like a pig. I think I better stop talking.
[Gwen starts getting up to clear the table.]
ARTHUR
I'll do that.
GWEN
Where did you get those plates?
ARTHUR
From...the cupboard?
GWEN
They have the royal seal. They're from the palace kitchens. I've washed enough of
them to know. I take it that's where our food also came from.
ARTHUR
Look, I can kill a chicken from a thousand paces, just don't ask me to cook it.
That's what servants are for. I didn't mean it like that.
GWEN
I'm not ashamed to be a servant. At least I'm not a liar.
ARTHUR
We had a nice meal together. What does it matter where it came from?
GWEN
Because I thought you'd shown some humility! You'd done something kind for me even
though I'm just a servant! A good king should respect his people, no matter who
they are.
ARTHUR
Guinevere. I know I have much to learn. There are some things that I am terrible at
- cooking being one of them. But also, knowing what to say to someone I care about.
MERLIN
Arthur, there's an assassin's in Camelot. He's here to kill you.
--
MERLIN
The assassin killed a guard. Your father said Odin sent him.
GWEN
Why would Odin want you dead?
ARTHUR
Because I killed his son. Odin's son challenged me to a fight. I had no quarrel
with him. I asked him to withdraw. Perhaps he felt he had to prove himself. I can
still see his face. He looked so scared.
GWEN
You cannot blame yourself.
MERLIN
No one but us knows where you are. If the assassin can't find you, he can't kill
you.
ARTHUR
May I continue to stay here?
GWEN
Of course, for as long as you need.
ARTHUR
Thank you. I'll sleep on the floor tonight.
GWEN
No, have my bed. You need to be well rested for the tournament tomorrow.
ARTHUR
I'll not hear of it. Goodnight, Guinevere.
GWEN
Goodnight.
ARTHUR
Fetch the mattress from my quarters and bring it up here.
MERLIN
How am I supposed to carry a mattress on my own?
ARTHUR
I don't know, strap it to your back.
--
[Arthur prepares to leave the next morning.]
ARTHUR
One more match. The tournament will be over.
GWEN
You can go back to being Prince Arthur. Erm...I thought you might wear it...for
luck.
ARTHUR
Thank you.
[Arthur kisses Gwen, then stands around awkwardly.]
ARTHUR
I must go.
--
[EXT/INT. LOWER TOWN/ARTHUR’S TENT/SIR ALINOR’S TENT/TOURNAMENT GROUNDS – DAY]
[Myror watches Arthur meet Merlin in the street on his way to the tournament
grounds, he follows them and sees Arthur with his double.]
WILLIAM
They’re ready for you, Sire.
[Myror watches Will hand Arthur the helmet. Myror sees two knights greet each
other.]
KNIGHT
Sir Alinor, good luck in the final.
[Myror attacks Sir Alinor in his tent, dresses in his armour and disguises a deadly
lance. Arthur and Myror face each other on the course. Arthur gets hit with the
deadly lance and Gwen stands up in shock, running out of the stands to him. Merlin
sees the disguised deadly point and heads after Myror. Gwen supports Arthur as they
rush into the tent.]
ARTHUR
His lance pierced my armour.
GWEN
You're losing too much blood.
[Gwen takes off the favour she gave him and holds it against the wound.]
ARTHUR
Do what you can. I have to be back on the course within five minutes or I forfeit
the match.
GWEN
You can't possibly joust, you're too badly injured!
ARTHUR
I have never withdrawn from a match. I do not intend to start now.
GWEN
You would risk your life to protect your pride? You have nothing to prove. Least of
all to me.
ARTHUR
I have everything to prove. To myself.
--
[INT/EXT. SIR ALINOR’S TENT/TOURNAMENT GROUNDS – DAY]
[Merlin sees Myror in armour and the dead Sir Alinor. Arthur mounted on his horse
motions to the lance rack.]
ARTHUR
You'll have to pass me my lance.
GWEN
This is madness!
[Arthur rides off and Merlin runs up to Gwen.]
MERLIN
Gwen! Where's Arthur?
GWEN
He's about to joust.
MERLIN
He's jousting against the assassin.
[Merlin and Gwen rush to the course. Arthur and Myror tilt.]
MERLIN
Unbinde þé téage.
[Merlin uses magic to snap the girth on Myror's horse so Arthur unhorses/kills him.
Merlin helps Arthur off the course.]
--
[William, Gwen, Merlin, and Arthur gather in the tent.]
MERLIN
You were jousting against the assassin. He killed Sir Alinor and took his place.
The people are waiting for their champion. It's time to reveal yourself.
ARTHUR (to William)

You must go and collect the trophy.
GWEN
I thought this was going to be your moment of glory?
ARTHUR
Perhaps this is a time for humility.
[Merlin, Gwen, and cloaked Arthur laugh and smile as William celebrates victory to
wild applause.]
--
[INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, TENT – DAY]
[Merlin goes to the tent where Gaius has carted off Myror.]
GAIUS
Merlin, who is this man? Where's Sir Alinor?
--
[Arthur stands before the court with a bandage sling over his bloody armour.]
ARTHUR
The assassin attacked us as we returned to Camelot. I was injured whilst killing
him.
UTHER
Odin must be made to pay for his actions. We must strike back at him.
ARTHUR
Surely you understand the grief he feels for the loss of his son? We should try to
make peace with him. There's been enough bloodshed.
UTHER
Perhaps you're right. How was the rest of your trip? Fruitful?
ARTHUR
Very. I learned a great deal. How was the tournament?
UTHER
Excellent. We have a new champion, Sir William of Daira.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry I missed all the excitement.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR – DAY]
[The courtiers exit into the corridor. Arthur checks to check that his father isn't
looking and turns to Gwen.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere. *ahem* What happened while I was staying with you...I'm afraid my father
would never understand.
GWEN
You don't have to explain. Perhaps when you are King, things will be different.
UTHER
Arthur?
--
[Merlin cleans the leech tank.]
MERLIN
This is horrible. This is so disgusting.
GAIUS
Well, perhaps you'll think twice about lying to me in the future. And Merlin,
there's something on your face.
MERLIN
Where?
[Merlin freaks out about the leeches on his face and arms and Gaius laughs.]
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:24
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BBC Merlin: 2x03 The Nightmare Begins
KILGHARRAH
--
[A thunderstorm rages. Morgana stirs restlessly in her sleep and magically lights
candle by her bed.]
GWEN
I brought you some extra blankets, I thought you might be cold...
[Gwen blows out the candle and puts it by the window. Morgana magically lights
candle in her sleep again. She wakes, stares at the candle and makes the flame burn
higher, burning her curtains. she screams and blows out her windows.]
--
[Merlin cleans up the burnt fragments and glass.]
GWEN
I came back in with some extra blankets. There was a candle, but I put it out.
UTHER
Are you sure?
GWEN
I blew it out, I swear.
ARTHUR
Gwen's been Morgana's servant for years. If she said she blew it out, I believe
her.
UTHER
She could've been burnt alive.
ARTHUR
Lightning struck the castle roof last night, that could've started the fire.
UTHER
Perhaps.
ARTHUR
What other explanation is there?
UTHER
Someone started the fire deliberately.
--
[Uther and Arthur walk down the corridor.]
UTHER
How did they reach Morgana's chambers unchallenged?
ARTHUR
I don't know. There are too many guards. It shouldn't be possible.
UTHER
And yet they managed to do so.
ARTHUR
I can't explain it.
UTHER
Well I can. They used magic. Arrest all those we have under suspicion.
ARTHUR
That's gonna take time.
UTHER
My ward has been attacked. Time is something we do not have.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin approaches the room and overhears Gaius and Morgana.]
GAIUS
What I don't understand, Morgana is how the fire started in the first place.
MORGANA
It happened so quickly. It was terrifying.
GAIUS
It's alright. You're safe now.
MORGANA
You're the only person I've told about my dreams. I know I can trust you, Gaius.
GAIUS
Yes, of course you can.
MORGANA
It was me. I set the room alight. I started the fire.
GAIUS
I don't understand. Did you knock a candle over?
MORGANA
No that's not what happened. I did it just by looking at it, the flames suddenly
leapt higher.
GAIUS
I could've been a gust of wind.
MORGANA
It wasn't. It was me. It was magic.
GAIUS
My child...
MORGANA
I'm not a child!
GAIUS
Last night was an accident. It had nothing to do with you. How could it have? I am
going to draw you up a fresh remedy that will make you feel better, I promise.
MORGANA
No...
GAIUS
You must trust me.
--
[Merlin sits while Gaius makes a potion.]
MERLIN
I was helping clear up Morgana's chambers earlier.
GAIUS
Hmm?
MERLIN
The window was blown out into the courtyard below.
GAIUS
Hmm.
MERLIN
It's odd isn't it? If lightning struck the window like Arthur said, you'd think the
glass would've fallen inside of the window. It was magic. You know it was. More
importantly, so does she.
GAIUS
Morgana knows nothing for certain.
MERLIN
Which makes it even worse. She isn't sure what's happening to her and it's tearing
her apart.
GAIUS
What would you have me do?
MERLIN
Talk to her. Tell her she'll be ok. Tell her that her powers aren't something to be
afraid of.
GAIUS
I can't.
MERLIN
Maybe I could speak to her.
GAIUS
No, Merlin, you can't.
MERLIN
What not? I understand what she's going through.
GAIUS
You must never reveal your secret. Not to anyone.
MERLIN
If not me, then someone else.
GAIUS
Who? This is a kingdom where magic is outlawed, or have you forgotten that?
MERLIN
There are those who still practice it. What about the druids? You said that they
help people like this.
GAIUS
Uther's vowed to destroy them. The druids cannot help her. It would be suicide.
MERLIN
Then who can?
GAIUS
I will. Like I've always done.
MERLIN
Then you need to be honest with her.
GAIUS
What makes you so certain that you know better than me?
MERLIN
Because I went through the same thing. I know exactly how she's feeling right now.
GAIUS
You cannot get involved in this. No good can come of it. I mean it, Merlin. Stay
out of it!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, GRIFFIN STAIRCASE – DAY]
[Arthur passes Merlin just as Merlin is about to visit Morgana's Chambers. Merlin
hides flowers behind his back.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Merlin. I need you to...What are you hiding behind your back?
MERLIN
Nothing. See?
ARTHUR
What are you up to?
MERLIN
What, nothing, honestly. Arthur, I would never lie to you. I respect you far too
much for that. You wanted me to do something.
ARTHUR
My chainmail needs cleaning.
MERLIN
Oh, well...I'll see to it right away.
--
[Gwen opens the door to Morgana's Chambers.]
MERLIN
How is she?
GWEN
I've never seen her like this before. I'm scared to leave her on her own.
MERLIN
Is there anything I can do to help?
[Morgana stirs restlessly in bed.]
GWEN
I'd better get back to her.
[Merlin hands Gwen the flowers.]
GWEN
I'll make sure she knows who they're from.
--
[Gwen sits on the edge of Morgana's bed with her.]
GWEN
I can stay if that would make you feel better.
MORGANA
You've done so much already.
GWEN
I don't mind.
MORGANA
I'll be fine. Really.
[Gwen squeezes her hand and gets up to leave.]
MORGANA
Gwen. Take the candle.
[Gwen takes the candle and leaves. Morgana tries to sleep, but wakes up and
magically shatters the vase with Merlin's flowers in it.]
--
[Morgana rushes in wearing her nightgown, almost hysterical.]
MORGANA
Is Gaius here?
MERLIN
Er, no he's not here at the moment. He should be back soon though.
MORGANA
I need to speak to him. Where is he?
MERLIN
He's gone to see the King. What's wrong? You can trust me, Morgana. You know you
can.
MORGANA
I'm scared, Merlin. I don't understand anything anymore. I need to know what's
happening. Please.
MERLIN
Gaius will be back soon. He'll be able to help you.
MORGANA
He won't. I don't any more remedies. They won't do any good. It's magic, Merlin.
MERLIN
What?
MORGANA
I'm your friend, you know I wouldn't make this up.
MERLIN
Of course.
MORGANA
Then you believe me? You think it's magic too. Please, Merlin, I just need to hear
someone say it so I don't have to keep feeling like I'm imagining it.
MERLIN
I really wish there was something I could say.
[Morgana backs away and walks out.]
MERLIN
Morgana. Morgana. Wait.
--
MERLIN
I need your help. Do you know where the druids are?
KILGHARRAH
First you must tell me why you seek them.
MERLIN
That doesn't matter.
KILGHARRAH
It does to me.
MERLIN
I need to ask them something.
KILGHARRAH
I've lived more than a thousand years, seen civilisations rise and fall. Do not
believe that you can lie to me.
MERLIN
I need their help. (sigh) Someone I care about needs their help.
KILGHARRAH
You speak of the witch, the Lady Morgana.
MERLIN
She's not a witch. She's my friend.
KILGHARRAH
She cannot be trusted.
MERLIN
What makes you say that?
KILGHARRAH
It would be better if The Witch...
MERLIN
Stop calling her that!
KILGHARRAH
It would be better if The Witch never knew the true extent of her powers.
MERLIN
You're wrong. I know her. She has a good heart.
KILGHARRAH
You failed to heed my advice in the past and it brought grave consequences.
MERLIN
I won't abandon her.
KILGHARRAH
I will not give you the help you seek. If you pursue this course of action, you do
so alone.
--
[Merlin absentmindedly cleans Arthur's chainmail. Arthur enters with Leon, holding
a scroll of parchment.]
ARTHUR
You sure this is all of them?
SIR LEON
Names and last known dwelling places.
ARTHUR
My father suspects the fire was started by sorcery.
SIR LEON
Indeed, Sire. I've included the details of everyone we suspect of consorting with
sorcerers, witches, or druids.
ARTHUR
Gather the men. We'll arrest them immediately. I thought I told you to do that
yesterday.
MERLIN
I didn't have time. I was cleaning the stables.
ARTHUR
That's strange. Because a little bird told me you were somewhere else.
MERLIN
Mucking out the stables is strange and a talking bird isn't?
ARTHUR
Merlin, what've we said about you trying to be funny?
MERLIN
I shouldn't.
ARTHUR
So where are my flowers?
MERLIN
Your flowers?
ARTHUR
I heard Morgana got some. I assumed you'd be putting them in all the rooms. Or is
she the only one to receive a token of your affections?
MERLIN
Yes. Er, No. Er...what? It's not a token of anything, affection or otherwise.
ARTHUR
I see. So why were you trying to hide them from me yesterday?
MERLIN
I wasn't. I mean, I was. Just, erm, I didn't want you to get the wrong impression.
ARTHUR
And what's the right impression?
MERLIN
That I was trying to cheer her up after the fire.
ARTHUR
Pick them yourself?
MERLIN
Maybe. I was only trying to be nice.
ARTHUR
Sword.
[Merlin hands him the sword.]
ARTHUR
That'll be all.
[Merlin leaves and Arthur shakes his head.]
--
[EXT/INT. LOWER TOWN, FORRIDEL’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Merlin sees people being rounded into the Square as he heads for the Lower Town.
Merlin tries to enter a house. It's locked.]
MERLIN
Ic I Tóspringæ.
[The door unlocks. Merlin enters. A woman puts a sword to his back.]
FORRIDEL
Move and I kill you.
MERLIN
Forridel?
FORRIDEL
Who are you?
MERLIN
There is no time to explain, we have to get out of here. The King's men are coming
for you.
[Pounding on the door.]
GUARD
Open in the name of the King!
[Merlin and Forridel sneak out the back way and watch the house from around the
corner.]
FORRIDEL
How did you know they were coming for me?
MERLIN
I'm Prince Arthur's servant.
FORRIDEL
You took a great risk, thank you.
MERLIN
I'm just sorry I couldn't help them all.
FORRIDEL
We better go.
MERLIN
No, wait. I need your help. I'm looking for a way to contact the druids.
FORRIDEL
I wouldn't know anything about them.
MERLIN
You don't need to lie to me.
FORRIDEL
I'm not lying.
MERLIN
Please, if it wasn't for me, you'd be under arrest. You know I'm not a spy for
Uther. I'm a friend of the druids. I need their help.
FORRIDEL
What do you want to know?
--
[Morgana holds the door open for Merlin to enter. Merlin holds a bottle.]
MERLIN
Gaius asked me to deliver this.
MORGANA
I don't need any potion, thank you. Merlin? Ignore what I said last night. I had a
nightmare, I was upset.
MERLIN
I know. I haven't said anything to anyone.
MORGANA
I'm sorry. It's usually Gwen that has to deal with me when I'm like this.
MERLIN
I don't mind. Maybe I could help.
MORGANA
I doubt that.
MERLIN
You'd be surprised.
MERLIN
I understand. I realise how frightening all this must be for you. Especially for
you.
MORGANA
Why especially for me?
MERLIN
You're the King's ward. You know his hatred of magic better than anyone.
MORGANA
That's what you think has been happening to me? The dreams. The fire. You think it
was magic?!
MERLIN
I'm not saying that.
MORGANA
But it could be, couldn't it?
MERLIN
I really wouldn't know, but there are people who do.
MORGANA
Who?
MERLIN
What about the druids? They help people like you.
MORGANA
None of their kind would dare show their face in Camelot.
MERLIN
No. But I know where you can find them.
--
[Warning bells ring in Camelot.]
ARTHUR
The guards have completed of the castle. There's no trace of her.
UTHER
Encircle the city. No one gets in or out.
GAIUS
You sent for me, Sire?
UTHER
Yes. What time did you deliver the sleeping draught to Morgana?
GAIUS
Well, I...
ARTHUR
The guards said that Merlin delivered it after she retired to her chambers.
UTHER
So she was safe them?
GAIUS
Yes. Well, I suppose she must've been.
--
[Gaius grabs Merlin' shoulder and holds up the potion bottle.]
GAIUS
I didn't ask you to take this to Morgana last night.
MERLIN
I used some initiative, I thought you'd be pleased.
GAIUS
Those warning bells are ringing because Uther thinks that Morgana's been kidnapped.
And you don't seem overly concerned.
MERLIN
She can look after herself.
GAIUS
Merlin, what have you done?
MERLIN
What you refused to. I helped her.
GAIUS
This ends now. People's lives are at risk, Morgana's included. Where is she?
MERLIN
She's gone to the Forest of Essetir to find the druids.
GAIUS
I told you not to get involved.
MERLIN
I had to because you wouldn't even acknowledge she had magic.
GAIUS
For good reason.
MERLIN
No. You don't understand. You don't understand what it's like. The years before I
came here were the loneliest of my life.
GAIUS
Morgana is the King's ward. Her situation is completely different to yours.
MERLIN
I know. I've got you, she hasn't.
GAIUS
I've always taken good care of Morgana.
MERLIN
It is not the same. Everything that's good and right about magic I've learnt from
you. I'd be lost without you, Gaius. Like she is now. Do you understand why I did
it?
GAIUS
Yes, I do. But that doesn't mean I don't fear the consequences.
--
[EXT. FOREST]
[Morgana walks through the woods in a bright red cloak. She can hear menacing
critter noises.]
--
UTHER
Have all the suspects been arrested?
ARTHUR
Nearly. A few have gone to ground.
UTHER
Issue a proclamation. "All the prisoners will be executed unless the Lady Morgana
is returned to Camelot."
ARTHUR
I'll see to it, Sire.
--
[Merlin sneaks out. He bumps a table.]
MERLIN (whisper
Gestillan! Gestillan! Gestillan!
[The spell stops several objects from crashing. Merlin approaches some guards.]
MERLIN
Forbearnan firgenholt.
[The spell enhances a torch fire to scare off some guards. Merlin comes to the
grate at the end of the tunnel outside the castle ramparts.]
MERLIN
Tospringe.
[The spell blows open the tunnel grate with magic.]
--
[EXT. FOREST – NIGHT]
[Morgana is attacked by serkets. A red cloaked man comes to her rescue as she
passes out.]
--
GAIUS
Come on, Merlin! Out of your bed! You'll be late for work. Merlin?
[Merlin walks across country.]
--
[INT. DRUID CAMP, MORGANA’S TENT – DAY]
[Morgana wakes as someone strokes her forehead with a cloth.]
AGLAIN
I'm not going to hurt you.
MORGANA
Ah...!
AGLAIN
You've hurt your leg. Try not to move it.
MORGANA
What happened?
AGLAIN
You were stung by a serket. I came to help. My name's Aglain. Relax, Morgana.
You're safe now.
MORGANA
Who told you my name?
MORDRED (telepathy)
I did.
MORGANA
You.
AGLAIN
When the serket attacked last night, Mordred was able to sense your distress in his
mind.
MORDRED (telepathy)
Hello Morgana.
MORGANA
Did you hear that? How did you do that?
AGLAIN
We don't always need words to speak to one another.
MORDRED
Now I can take care of you like you did me.
--
[EXT. TUNNEL EXIT – DAY]
[Arthur, Uther, Gaius and the guards inspect the tunnel grate that Merlin blew off
its hinges.]
ARTHUR
There's some confusion as to how that was broken. By the looks of these scorch
marks...
UTHER
There is no confusion. It was magic. The same magic that was used to start the fire
in Morgana's chambers. Where does the trail lead?
ARTHUR
To the forest of Essetir.
UTHER
We've long suspected that the druids have hidden there.
ARTHUR
The trail will lead us straight to them.
UTHER
Take no prisoners. It's time we rid ourselves of these druids once and for all.
[Uther leaves. Arthur turns to Gaius.]
ARTHUR
Where's Merlin?
GAIUS
Erm...He's, er, he's not well.
ARTHUR
He's still upset about Morgana, isn't he?
GAIUS
We all are.
ARTHUR
Tell him to stop pining, pull himself together, and get back to work.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE – DAY]
[Arthur and Camelot guards depart with dogs.]
--
[Merlin lights a campfire with magic.]
MERLIN
Forbearnan.
[Merlin hears distant telepathy...or at least a mishmash of dialogue from this

episode.]
MERLIN
Hello?
AGLAIN’S VOICE
What would you like to know?
--
[Gaius enters. Uther is waiting.]
UTHER
Is there any word from Arthur?
GAIUS
No, Sire, not yet. But they haven't been gone long.
UTHER
Yes. Of course.
GAIUS
Why are you so certain that she's been kidnapped?
UTHER
What other possibility is there?
GAIUS
She was very upset after the fire. She could've gone of her own accord.
UTHER
That's not Morgana. In all her years, I've never known her to run from anything.
Takes after her father too much for that.
GAIUS
You haven't let Gorlois down. You've looked after that girl as if she were your
own.
UTHER
That is what she's become. If she were to die, a huge part of me would die with
her.
--
[Aglain enters.]
AGLAIN
I trust you slept well?
MORGANA
Better than I've done in days.
AGLAIN
Here, this might make you feel more at home.
[Aglain hands here a druid cloak.]
--
[EXT. FOREST/DRUID CAMP – DAY]
[Arthur continues to pursue Merlin's trail with dogs. Merlin approaches druid camp.
Aglain walks with Morgana.]
AGLAIN
They are surprised to see you here, if not a little afraid. Your king would have us
killed.
MORGANA
They have nothing to fear from me. I do not share Uther's hatred of magic.
AGLAIN
No. I imagine you wouldn't. These forests are dangerous. What brings you so far
from Camelot?
MORGANA
Searching for answers. I hope the druids might be able to give them to me.
AGLAIN
Come.
--
[Arthur finds Merlin's campfire.]
ARTHUR
Keep moving! This way.
--
[EXT/INT. DRUID CAMP, MORGANA’S TENT – DAY]
[Merlin sneaks into the druid camp and listens in on Aglain's conversation with
Morgana.]
AGLAIN
What would you like to know?
MORGANA
Why I can see the future in my dreams. Why I'm able to start fires with my mind.
AGLAIN
People who are able to do this are few and far between. You have a gift.
MORGANA
Is it magic?
AGLAIN
Of a kind, yes. But it will be many years before you're able to understand it
fully, let alone use it. This isn't something to be afraid of.
MORGANA
It is if you have Uther as your guardian. If he found out, he'd have me killed.
AGLAIN
He won't.
MORGANA
But if he did...
AGLAIN
We won't let that happen. You're safe here. You shouldn't be scared of Uther. You
should pity him.
MORGANA
Pity? Why?
AGLAIN
Because he's a broken man, consumed by fear. His hatred of magic has driven
goodness from his heart.
MORGANA
I've always been taught that magic is evil, that it corrupts your soul.
AGLAIN
Uther told you this. Just because he decrees it, doesn't make it so. In time you
will learn that magic isn't a dark art that must be shrouded in secrecy. It can be
a force for good.
[Aglain leaves the tent.]
--
[Arthur and the guards reach the woods near the druid camp and see the smoke from
their fires.]
ARTHUR
Remember the King's orders! No prisoners!
--
[Merlin enters.]
MORGANA
Merlin! What are you doing here?
MERLIN
I've come to take you back to Camelot.
MORGANA
Then I'm afraid you've had a wasted journey. I'm never going back.
MERLIN
You have to.
MORGANA
Why? You're the one who said I should seek out the druids.
MERLIN
I never realised what the repercussions would be.
MORGANA
What repercussions?
MERLIN
The King thinks you've been kidnapped.
--
[EXT. DRUID CAMP – DAY]
[Arthur and guards approach.]
--
[INT. DRUID CAMP, MORGANA'S TENT – DAY]
MERLIN
He won't stop until you're found. He's arrested dozens of people. He's gonna
execute them all.
MORGANA
If I return, the same fate awaits me.
MERLIN
Uther doesn't need to know about this. I won't tell a soul.
[Arthur and guards.]
[Morgana's tent.]
MORGANA
I'm sorry. I'm never going back. These are my people. They're like me. I don't feel
so alone here. Do you understand?
MERLIN
Better than anyone.
AGLAIN
Morgana, we must go. Who are you?
MORGANA
I--it's alright, he's a friend. What's wrong?
AGLAIN
Arthur and his men are coming. Your friend has led him straight to us.
[The druids run, trying to escape Arthur and the guards. Merlin sees Mordred.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Hello Emrys.
[Arthur sees Mordred and Aglain helping the limping Morgana run off.]
ARTHUR
This way!
[Merlin runs with Mordred, Morgana, and Aglain.]
AGLAIN
We've got to keep moving!
MORGANA
My leg, it's too painful!
MERLIN
I'll try to create a diversion.
MORGANA
No, Merlin, you can't!
MERLIN
You carry on! It's my fault they're here! Go! Go!
MORGANA
I'll never forget this.
MERLIN
Bene læg gesweorc.
[Merlin creates fog and sends it Arthur's way. Arthur pauses in the fog. Merlin
runs above.]
ARTHUR
There!
[Arthur pursues Merlin. Merlin jumps and hides under protruding rock. Arthur and
his men jump right over him. Merlin runs back. Guards spot Morgana's party anyway.]
GUARD
Over there!
[Morgana slumps to the ground.]
MORGANA
I can't go on.
AGLAIN
We're not leaving you behind.
MORGANA
Please.
[Morgana faints.]
MORDRED
They're coming!
[Aglain is shot with a crossbow. Mordred runs.]
GUARD
Prince Arthur! We have the Lady Morgana!
[Mordred runs, but is surrounded by guards. Merlin stops running and watches him
kill throw 3 guards and run off.]
--
[Arthur rides into the square with Morgana. Uther helps her down and Gwen comes to
meet them while Uther embraces Morgana.]
UTHER
I was so, so worried about you.
ARTHUR
You were right. It was the druids. They kidnapped her.
--
[Morgana lies on her bed fully clothed. Merlin knocks and Morgana goes to open the
door.]
MORGANA
Merlin.
MERLIN
My Lady.
[Morgana lets him in and closes the door.]
MERLIN
I wanted to check you were ok.
MORGANA
I'm fine. What was said at the woods...
MERLIN
You can trust me, Morgana. I won't tell anyone.
MORGANA
Thank you, Merlin. I know now who I really am. And it isn't something to be scared
of. Maybe one day people will come to see magic as a force for good.
MERLIN
Erm....It's good to have you back.
MORGANA
Thank you, Merlin.
[Morgana opens the door to let him out.]
MORGANA
Sleep well.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, GRIFFIN STAIRCASE – NIGHT]
[Arthur leans against the underside of the stairs as Merlin walks down from
Morgana's Chambers.]
ARTHUR
This has to stop.
[Merlin turns around.]
ARTHUR
The King would have your head if he found out, and there's no point denying it.
MERLIN
Denying what?
ARTHUR
Your affections for the Lady Morgana.
MERLIN (chuckles)
Right.
ARTHUR
Take a bit of advice from someone who knows about women.
MERLIN
Well, if such a person existed, I would.
ARTHUR
Stick to girls who are more...how can I put it? On your level.
MERLIN
Thanks.
ARTHUR
She can't be her friend. Let alone anything else.
MERLIN
Yeah, I know.
ARTHUR
You can't hide anything from me, Merlin.
MERLIN (chuckles)
I wouldn't dream of it.
--
[Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry, Gaius.
[Gaius walks slowly to Merlin, then hugs him.]
MERLIN
I thought you'd be angry with me.
GAIUS
I was. Right up to the moment you walked in. Then I was just grateful that you're
back safe and sound.
MERLIN
Morgana knows the truth. The druids told her she has magic. Sorry.
GAIUS
It's not your fault. You were only doing what you thought was right.
MERLIN
We both were. What happens now?
GAIUS
You must take care of her. And hope that Uther never discovers the truth about her
powers.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:26
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BBC Merlin: 2x04 Lancelot and Guinevere
KILGHARRAH
--
[Arthur assists Morgana as she mounts her horse.]
ARTHUR
I hope your trip isn't too upsetting.
MORGANA
Thank you, Arthur.
ARTHUR
Make sure you return to Camelot before dusk.
SIR ROBERT
Yes, Sire.
[Arthur and Gwen gaze at each other as the party leaves. Merlin comes down the
palace steps.]
MERLIN
Where are they going?
ARTHUR
Morgana's on a pilgrimage to her father's grave.
--
[EXT. FOREST, ROAD – DAY]
[Morgana and Gwen ride through the woods with an escort.]
MORGANA
You look troubled, Gwen.
GWEN
I'm fine.
MORGANA
You're very secretive these days. I'm beginning to think there's a man involved.
GWEN (scoffs)
When do I get to meet any decent men?
[The party is attacked.]

SIR ROBERT
My ladies, you must follow me!
[The knight is shot in the back. Gwen and Morgana are pulled off their horses. A
knight kills the men holding them.]
MORGANA
Gwen! Head for the path! Go!
[Gwen and Morgana run up the hill, but Kendrick is waiting for them.]
MORGANA
I warn you. I am Uther Pendragon's ward. He'll have your heads if any harm comes to
me.
KENDRICK
I have no intention of harming you. At least not yet. You're much more valuable to
me alive, Lady Morgana.
--
[INT. FOREST, BANDIT CAMP – DAY]
[Morgana and Gwen watch bandits from a tent.]
MORGANA
He's coming. You know what you must do?
[Gwen nods.]
KENDRICK
I trust you are comfortable?
MORGANA
I demand to know where you're taking us.
KENDRICK
You'll find out soon enough. We've a long journey ahead of us. Get some rest.
[Kendrick turns to leave, but Morgana walks out of the tent after him.]
MORGANA
I wish to bathe.
KENDRICK
You wish to bathe?
MORGANA
I am the King's ward and accustomed to certain standards. I am sure you are quite
contented to stink like a pig, but I am not.
KENDRICK
The Lady Morgana wishes to bathe! Who wants to help me guard her?
[Coarse laughter.]
--
ARTHUR
Morgana's party hasn't returned to Camelot. There's no sign of her anywhere.
UTHER
Send riders to the outlying villages. I want every guard, every sentry looking for
her.
ARTHUR
Dispatch them immediately.
--
[Morgana begins to undress by a stream, two men guarding her and Gwen.]
KENDRICK
You may find the water a little icy.
MORGANA
I'm sure I'll manage. If you were any kind of gentleman, you'd give me some
privacy.
KENDRICK
Well, unfortunately for you I am no kind of gentleman. Now get on with it.
[Morgana removes her outer garment and the second bandit lets go of Gwen.]
MORGANA
You can at least turn your backs.
KENDRICK
So you can make a run for it. Do you think I'm that stupid?
MORGANA
I think you're very stupid.
[Gwen pulls Kendrick's sword, Morgana hits him, Gwen tosses her the sword and she
slashes both men.]
MORGANA
Run! No, no, this way!
[Gwen stumbles and hurts her ankle, Morgana stops and goes back to her.]
GWEN Run!
MORGANA
Put your arm around my shoulder, come on!
GWEN
No, no, no. We'll never outrun them, you must go on without me!
MORGANA
I'm not leaving you behind!
GWEN
Morgana, go! Please! You must get help!
MORGANA
Take this.
[Morgana hands Gwen the sword.]

GWEN
Go!
[Morgana runs. Gwen hides behind a tree, then jumps out and takes down the man
pursuing them. Morgana stops when she hears the man's scream, then continues
running.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, ROAD – DAY]
[Arthur, Merlin & Co. arrive at the scene of the first attack.]
ARTHUR
Check to see if anyone's alive! It's Mercian craftsmanship.
MERLIN
Arthur. It's a ransom note! They've taken Morgana hostage.
ARTHUR
Tracks lead off this way.
[Arthur, Merlin & Co. sneak through the woods. Arthur hears running footsteps,
exchanges his sword for a crossbow, and jumps out of hiding to find a startled
Morgana.]
ARTHUR
Where's Guinevere?
--
[Gwen is surrounded by bandits.]
KENDRICK
How could you let her escape?! Eh?! You bring me the servant! She's worthless to
us!
[Kendrick grabs Gwen's face to look her over. He takes Morgana's dress and cloak
and shoves them at her.]
KENDRICK
Put 'em on.
GWEN
What are you going to do with me?
KENDRICK
Hengist has never met the Lady Morgana. For all he knows, you could be Uther
Pendragon's ward.
GWEN
I will not impersonate my mistress.
KENDRICK
Then you will die where you stand.
[Kendrick puts a sword to Gwen’s throat.]
--
[Morgana enters with Arthur.]
UTHER
It's such a relief to see you safe. I couldn't bear the thought of anyone harming
you.
MORGANA
The bandits still have Gwen.
ARTHUR
I believe they were Mercian. We've received reports that Hengist has crossed the
border.
UTHER
Hengist?
MORGANA
You must send a rescue party.
UTHER If
Hengist is holding her, it would take a small army to rescue your maid.
MORGANA
We can't abandon her!
UTHER
How many men would you have me sacrifice to save a servant?
MORGANA
As many as it takes! Gwen gave herself up so that I might escape. I owe her my
life.
UTHER
She did so willingly, and she will be honoured for it.
MORGANA
I don't want her honoured, I want her rescued! She is more than just my maid. She's
my friend.
UTHER
A servant is of no value to these bandits. I fear she's dead already.
MORGANA
No! We cannot give up hope! Arthur? I'm begging you. You have to do something.
ARTHUR
My father's right. I'm afraid there's nothing we can do.
MORGANA
How can you say that?! How can you live with yourselves?! All of you!
--
[EXT/INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, MAIN HALL – NIGHT]
[Gwen is escorted inside.]
HENGIST
Kendrick, I was beginning to think you'd failed me.
KENDRICK
May I present the Lady Morgana.
HENGIST
You're as beautiful as they say, Lady Morgana.
GWEN
I demand that you release me immediately!
HENGIST
Just as soon as Uther Pendragon pays your ransom. In the meantime, you'll be my
guest.
GWEN
Do not flatter yourself. I am not your guest! I am your prisoner!
HENGIST
As you wish. Take her to the dungeon.
--
[Morgana bursts in.]
MORGANA
How can you be so heartless?! Gwen is the most kind, loyal person that you would
ever meet, and she has been more than a friend to all of us! and you would leave
her at the mercy of those animals!
ARTHUR
Morgana...
MORGANA
Have you no shame? Do you think of no one but yourself?
ARTHUR
Morgana...
MORGANA
I knew you were many things, Arthur Pendragon, but I didn't know you were a gutless
coward!
ARTHUR
Morgana! Perhaps if you would stop shouting at me for one second, you would notice
that I am packing.
MORGANA
You're going after Gwen.
ARTHUR
Of course I'm going after her. What do you take me for? I couldn't disagree with
Father in public.
MORGANA
Arthur? Bring her home.
--
[Merlin emerges from his chamber.]
GAIUS
I suppose you and Arthur are going after Gwen.
MERLIN
Gaius, don't even think about telling me not to go. There's nothing you can say
that will stop me.
GAIUS
I wasn't going to try and stop you, Merlin. All I ask is you make sure you come
back safely, too.
--
[Merlin and Arthur hide behind a cart and peek around it at Camelot's guards.]
ARTHUR
I'll fetch the horses, you distract the guards.
MERLIN
Wha...how do I do that?
ARTHUR
I don't know. Do I have to think of everything?
[Arthur leaves.]
MERLIN
Binne tófléon.
[the spell rolls some barrels near guards. they approach it warily.]
MERLIN
álíese.
GUARDS
Whoa!
[the spell stands the barrel upright.]
MERLIN
Swéor þá.
[Merlin accidentally sends too many rolling too fast. Arthur returns.]
ARTHUR
What did you do? I said distract them, not knock them out!
MERLIN
There's just no pleasing you sometimes.
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, MAIN HALL – NIGHT]
[Boisterous feasting.]
HENGIST
Silence! Our royal guest, Lady Morgana has grown bored! She needs entertaining.
[Bandit laughter. Hengist nods to someone. A gate opens to a cage and a gladiator
struts out.]
HENGIST
Bring on the challenger.
[Lancelot jogs into the cage. Gwen and Lancelot exchange surprised looks.]
HENGIST
Only one of you will emerge from the cage alive. Do you accept the challenge?
[Lancelot bows to Hengist. A cage match ensues. Lancelot wins and spares the man's
life; he exits cage and goes to Hengist. Hengist tosses Lancelot a sack of coins;
Gwen glares at Lancelot suspiciously.]
HENGIST
What is your name?
LANCELOT
My name is Lancelot.
HENGIST
You have proved yourself to be a skilful warrior. I believe you may even have
impressed our royal guest, Lady Morgana.
[Surprised, Lancelot bows to her.]
LANCELOT
My Lady.
HENGIST (laughs)
Next time you fight, do not expect any mercy. Release the Wildren.
[The cage door opens and an R.O.U.S. emerges to eat the screaming gladiator.]
--
[Merlin nods sleepily as he and Arthur ride through the woods. Merlin falls off his
horse.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing, Merlin?
MERLIN
I must've fallen asleep. Ugh, I'm exhausted. *sigh* I can barely keep my eyes open.
[Arthur opens his canteen and throws water on Merlin's face.]
MERLIN
Thank you. I feel so much better.
ARTHUR
Guinevere's life is at stake. We cannot afford to waste a second.
MERLIN
Ugh.
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, DUNGEON – NIGHT]
[Gwen sits curled up in her prison cell. Lancelot comes to her window.]
LANCELOT
Gwen.
GWEN
Lancelot.
LANCELOT
I could not believe my eyes when I saw it was you.
GWEN
I thought my mind was deceiving me.
LANCELOT
Why does Hengist think you are Lady Morgana?
GWEN
He believes he's holding Morgana to ransom. When no ransom is paid he will realise
the truth and then he will throw me to those beasts.
LANCELOT
I will not allow that to happen.
GWEN
What are you doing here? Are you one of Hengist's men?
LANCELOT
No.
GWEN
What became of you after you left Camelot?
LANCELOT
There are few opportunities for men like me. So I've been earning a living the only
way that I know: with a sword in my hand. It seems it is my destiny to entertain
men like Hengist.
GWEN
I don't believe that of you. You were so full of hope.
LANCELOT
I was wrong. The world is not like that.
GWEN
I still see the hope in you. I do not accept it is gone.
LANCELOT
I have thought of you often. Have you thought of me at all?
GWEN
I thought I would never see you again.
[They hear a door being unlocked.]
GWEN
Someone's coming.
LANCELOT
No matter what it takes, I will find a way to get you out of here. I will.
--
[Merlin sleeps under a tree. Arthur pours water over his face.]
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
What's happening? How long was I asleep for?
ARTHUR
Long enough.
MERLIN
Did you get some rest?
ARTHUR
Couldn't sleep.
MERLIN
I've never seen you like this. About anyone.
ARTHUR
What are you talking about?
MERLIN
Gwen. You really care about her, don't you?
ARTHUR
What I care about is not wasting any more time talking. Let's get moving.
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, DUNGEON - DAY]
[Gwen's sitting very stiffly on her prison bed. cell door is unlocked and Hengist
enters. she stands up sharply.]
HENGIST
I've not yet received word from Uther that he intends to pay your ransom. I was
informed that the King was extremely fond of his ward. Are you not surprised he is
content to leave you here to die?
GWEN
How can I know the King's mind when I am locked in your stinking cell?
HENGIST
If I do not hear from Uther by dawn tomorrow, this stinking cell will be the last
place you ever see.
[Hengist cackles and exits, slaming the cell door shut. Gwen slumps onto the prison
bed, distressed.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, TUNNELS – DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin look at a map.]
ARTHUR
The ransom was supposed to be delivered to the Veil of Danaria. If they're holding
Gwen anywhere, it has to be there. Which means, it'd save a day's riding if we cut
through the tunnels of Andor.
MERLIN
Oh, no. I know that face. I'm not going to like this, am I? What's in the tunnels?
ARTHUR
They're...infested with Wildren.
MERLIN
What are Wildren?
ARTHUR
Well, they're like giant...baby rats.
MERLIN
Baby rats? They don't sound so bad.
ARTHUR
They feast on human flesh.
MERLIN
Maybe we should go over the mountains.
[Arthur walks over to inspect some bushes.]
MERLIN
Er...what are you doing?
ARTHUR
Wildren are completely blind, they hunt by sense of smell. Gaia berries will put
them off the scent. So, if we smear ourselves with them, perhaps we can pass
through the tunnels undetected.
[Arthur smears his face with the berries. Merlin starts to smear some berries on
his face too.]
MERLIN
Oh! Oh, these stink! Oh, they're really bad.
ARTHUR
Perhaps you'd prefer to be eaten alive.
MERLIN
Pass me some more, will you?
--
[INT. TUNNELS OF ANDOR – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur walk through the tunnels.]
MERLIN
Ah! I just stood on something.
ARTHUR
That was my foot.
MERLIN
Oh, sorry. How much further is it?
ARTHUR
Shh! Wildren coming this way.
[They hide.]
ARTHUR
Whatever happens, keep completely still.
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, DUNGEON – DAY]
[Lancelot sneaks up to Gwen's cell.]
LANCELOT
Gwen.
GWEN
Lancelot.
LANCELOT
I was terrified I might find your cell empty.
GWEN
There's been no word from Uther. I fear Hengist is growing suspicious.
LANCELOT
You must keep up the pretence. I will not allow you to die here.
GWEN
What about you?
LANCELOT
I have little to live for.
GWEN
Do not say that.
LANCELOT
It's the truth. For all my words, for all that I believed, I have come to nothing.
GWEN
You are everything that is right with this world.
LANCELOT
I did not know you felt that way.
GWEN
I didn't even know I could feel this way about someone.
LANCELOT
Then you have given me a reason to live. Be ready. I will come for you before
nightfall.
--
[EXT. FOREST, STREAM – DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin wash off the Gaia berries by a stream.]
ARTHUR
Gaia berries worked. Huh.
MERLIN
You didn't know if they worked?
ARTHUR
Not for sure.
MERLIN
Now you tell me?! Oh! Oh, what's that Wildren eating? It's all right. It's just
Merlin. You trying to get us both killed?
ARTHUR
I'm sorry. I shouldn't've risked your life like that.
MERLIN
Well, they do say love makes you do strange things.
ARTHUR
MERLIN
Why can't you just admit your feelings for Gwen?
[Arthur scoffs.]
MERLIN
It's so obvious. A blind man could see it. Is it really that hard to admit you like
her? Just say it.
ARTHUR
I can't! How can I admit that I think about her all the time. Or that...I care
about her more than anyone. How can I admit that...I don't know what I'll do if any
harm comes to her?
MERLIN
Why can't you?
ARTHUR
Because nothing can ever happen between us! To admit my feelings knowing
that...hurts too much.
MERLIN
Who's to say nothing can happen?
ARTHUR
My father won't let me rescue a servant. Do you honestly believe he'd let me marry
one?
MERLIN
You want to marry Gwen?
ARTHUR
No! No...I...I don't know...It's all talk, and that's all it can ever be.
MERLIN
When you're King, you can change that.
ARTHUR
I can't expect Guinevere to wait for me.
MERLIN
If she feels as you do, she'll wait for you.
ARTHUR
We don't even know if she's still alive.
MERLIN
No, she is. We will find her.
ARTHUR
Come on. We've got a long trek ahead. Oh, and Merlin...if you dare tell anyone
about this, I promise I will make your life a living hell.
MERLIN
You mean, more than you already do?
ARTHUR
Yeah.
MERLIN
We could talk about your feelings while you walk.
ARTHUR
Shut up, Merlin.
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, MAIN HALL – DAY]
[Bandits shove Gwen into the cage where Hengist is waiting.]
HENGIST
Morgana. Morgana! I keep asking myself, "Why does Uther not pay the ransom? He's a
rich man, why would he leave his beloved ward to suffer a slow and terrible death?"
GWEN
I don't know. Please. Please...
[Gwen backs up into the corner of the cage and Hengist grabs one of her hands.]
HENGIST
It must be very upsetting to know that Uther has abandoned you. It seems like no
one in the world cares for you.
GWEN
I don't know why he doesn't pay. Please, I don't know.
HENGIST
Take her to her cell. Bring Kendrick to me. Perhaps he can tell me why the Lady
Morgana has the hands of a serving girl.
--
[Gwen is thrown into her cell. She curls up under Morgana's cloak and cries.
Lancelot drugs the guards.]
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, MAIN HALL – DAY]
[Kendrick is thrown into the cage.]
KENDRICK
No! No, wait! Wait, Hengist! Hengist, wait. We did, we did capture the Lady
Morgana, but, but...she escaped.
HENGIST
So who, exactly, do I have in my dungeon?
KENDRICK
Lady Morgana's maid.
HENGIST
Thank you for being so honest. Release the Wildren.
KENDRICK
No! No, please! I'm begging you! Hengist! Hengist, please! Please, Hengist!
HENGIST!
--
[Lancelot opens the door to Gwen's cell and takes her hand.]
LANCELOT
We haven't a moment to lose.
[They run down a dark tunnel. Hengist goes to Gwen's cell, which is open.]
HENGIST
Ah! Find them! Bring her to me alive!
[Gwen and Lancelot stop in the tunnels.]
LANCELOT
Follow this tunnel. It will take you out beyond the castle walls. I will buy you as
much time as I can.
GWEN
I am not leaving you.
LANCELOT
You must.
GWEN
No. I will not leave you here to die.
LANCELOT
I would die for you 100 times over. Live for me, or everything that I am has been
for nothing.
GWEN
As long as I live, my feelings for you will never fade.
LANCELOT
Run. Don't stop running until you are well away from here. [she hesitates.] Run.
Run.
[Lancelot fights off bandits. Gwen runs, pauses when she hears a yell, then keeps
running.]
--
[EXT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin view the fortress from their hiding spot in the woods.]
ARTHUR
We'll have to scale the walls.
MERLIN
Maybe there's another way in.
ARTHUR Why don't you go an knock on the front gate? I'm sure if you ask nicely,
they'll hand Guinevere over to you.
--
[Lancelot is tied up in the cage, bandits laughing and jeering at him.]
HENGIST
Before you die, I can promise you the most unimaginable pain.
LANCELOT
You can do what you will with me. I do not care. You can do no harm to Guinevere.
HENGIST
Oh, was that her name, huh? The serving girl? And you really believe she's worth
dying for?
LANCELOT
She is worth more to me that you will ever understand.
[Hengist nods, the gate is opened, Gwen is dragged into the cage.]
HENGIST
You thought she got away. No. You failed her. And that must hurt you "more than I
will ever understand."
--
[EXT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS, WALL – NIGHT]
[Merlin and Arthur scale the wall.]
ARTHUR
You really are completely useless, aren't you, Merlin?
MERLIN
It's...harder than it looks. Oh, now you're just showing off.
--
[INT. HENGIST’S FORTRESS – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin peek around a corner inside the fortress to see some bandits.]
ARTHUR
You distract them. I'll knock them out.
MERLIN
How do I distract them?
[Arthur puts his arm around Merlin and then shoves him into the room.]
BANDIT
What are you doing there?
MERLIN
Nothing. Actually, it's a funny story. I was out walking and I took a wrong turn
and here I am. Do you know the way to the Veil of Danaria?
BANDIT
Who are you?
MERLIN
Me? Er, I'm no one...It's him you need to worry about.
[Arthur knocks them out. they dress in the bandits' clothes and drag the bandits
into a corner.]
MERLIN
That actually worked pretty well.
--
[Bandits laugh at Gwen and Lancelot who are tied to each other in the cage.]
HENGIST
What do you say?! Shall I spare them?
BANDITS (laugh)
Kill! Kill! Kill! Kill...!
GWEN
I am sorry. This is my fault.
LANCELOT
You have nothing to be sorry for. You reminded me of who I am. I will die with
faith in my heart. That is worth more than anything.
HENGIST
Release the Wildren!
[Arthur and Merlin enter the room. Arthur jumps into the cage and pulls off his
mask.]
GWEN
Arthur!
[Arthur frees them, tosses Lancelot a sword, pulls Gwen behind them while they fend
off the Wildren.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing here, Lancelot?
LANCELOT
I came to save Gwen. What about you?
ARTHUR
Likewise. Get behind us.
[Hengist aims a crossbow at the three in the cage.]
MERLIN
Ic bebíede fealle.
[The chandelier crashes, but Hengist dodges it.]
ARTHUR
The tunnel, that's our only chance. Merlin! Don't sit there cowering, let's go!
HENGIST
After them!
[Merlin jumps over the cage wall and Hengist enter through the door.]
LANCELOT
Take Guinevere! I'll hold them off.
GWEN
No!
ARTHUR
Guinevere, we have to go!
[Arthur grabs Gwen and takes her down the tunnel.]
MERLIN
*spell*
[The rope breaks and gate falls, trapping Hengist in with the Wildren.]
HENGIST
Open the gate! Ah!
LANCELOT
I see you're still up to your old tricks, Merlin.
MERLIN
It's probably best you don't tell anyone about that.
[The four stop running when they reach locked bars at the end of the tunnel. Arthur
tries to break chain.]
LANCELOT
Good to see you both. Where are your knights?
ARTHUR
It's just us.
[Lancelot looks at Merlin in surprise.]
ARTHUR
Got to keep moving.
[Arthur breaks open the gate. Lancelot offers Gwen a hand to help her up. She takes
it with a smile. Merlin catches her look and turns to Arthur. Arthur notices, too,
and looks away uncomfortably. Gwen exits first, then Merlin.]
LANCELOT
Thank you, Arthur. We owe you our lives.
[Arthur nods and they exit.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, CAMP – NIGHT]
[The four sit around a campfire. Arthur pouts at Gwen.]
LANCELOT
I'm surprised you would undertake such a rescue mission...with just the two of you.
ARTHUR
My father would not risk the lives of his knights for a servant.
LANCELOT
And yet you disobeyed him and came here anyway.
ARTHUR
Truth is, I only came because Morgana begged me.
GWEN
I think I will get some rest.
ARTHUR
We should all get some rest.
LANCELOT
I'll stand guard for a while.
MERLIN
I'll just...sit here, then.
--
[When Gwen and Arthur fall asleep, Merlin sits down next to Lancelot.]
LANCELOT
Is it true that Arthur came to rescue Gwen because "Morgana begged him"? He has
feelings for her, doesn't he?
MERLIN
What about you? Do you have feelings for Gwen?
LANCELOT
My feelings do not matter. I will not come between them. Tell Gwen...tell Gwen that
she has changed me forever, but some things cannot be.
[Arthur is off somewhere in the woods. Merlin puts fire out and Gwen wakes.]
GWEN
Where's Lancelot? Where is he?
MERLIN
He's gone.
GWEN
No.
MERLIN
He said that some things can't be. He wanted you to know that you've changed him
forever.
[Arthur approaches.]
ARTHUR
We have a long walk ahead of us.
[Merlin walks home while Gwen and Arthur ride the horses.]
--
[Morgana stands on the Griffin landing staring worriedly out the window. Arthur
walks up the stairs.]
ARTHUR
Morgana. There's someone here to see you.
[Arthur steps aside and Gwen runs into Morgana's arms.]
MORGANA
Gwen! I thought I'd never see you again.
[Arthur gives Gwen a pouty look as she hugs Morgana. He sulks off down the steps.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur walk down the castle steps into the Square. Arthur nods to a
cute older couple walking arm in arm.]
MERLIN
Look on the bright side, you've still got me.
ARTHUR
Is that supposed to cheer me up?
MERLIN
Thought it might.
ARTHUR
You really are a complete idiot, aren't you, Merlin?
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:28
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BBC Merlin: 2x05 Beauty and the Beast, Part One
KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. MOUNTAIN CAVE – NIGHT]
[Jonas brews a magical potion.]
JONAS
*spell* Mistress.
TROLL
Is it done?
JONAS
Yes, Mistress, the potion is prepared.
TROLL
Then Camelot and all its riches will soon be mine.
[The troll drinks the potion. Jonas takes the bottle from her human hand. They ride
through the woods and stop on a hill.]
JONAS
Camelot.
[The troll sweeps back her hood to reveal a beautiful noblewoman.]
--
[Gaius and Merlin walk through the Lower Town, Merlin laden with pots.]
GAIUS
Keep up, Merlin. We've got a busy day ahead.
MERLIN
It's a busy day every day. You and Arthur, you work me to the bone.
GAIUS
Do stop moaning. At least the work's interesting.
MERLIN
Gaius, we're collecting pots. We do the same thing each and every Thursday at
exactly the same time and nothing interesting ever happens.
[Jonas grabs Merlin's arm.]
JONAS
Please, we seek Uther Pendragon. Where can he be found?
MERLIN
I...
[Jonas presses a seal into Merlin's hand.]
JONAS
We have urgent business with the King.
GAIUS
I'm sorry, any business you have with the King will have to be pursued through the
usual channels.
[Gaius looks at the seal.]
GAIUS
But this is the seal of the House of Tregor. Where did you get this?
JONAS
It does not belong to me.
[Jonas turns to the troll, who pulls back her hood.]
CATRINA
It belongs to me.
[Gaius bows.]
GAIUS
My Lady.
[Merlin stares transfixed by Catrina. Gaius continues to bow.]
GAIUS (whisper)
Merlin!
[Merlin bows.]
--
UTHER
Lady Catrina, is it really you?
CATRINA
I can hardly believe it myself.
UTHER
We had tidings from the north that the House of Tregor had fallen to invaders.
CATRINA
All that you heard was true, My Lord, and worse.
UTHER
Your father, the King?
CATRINA
Gone, Sire. The enemy attacked without warning. We were outnumbered five to one. He
could not endure. I would never have survived had it not been for my faithful
servant Jonas. But we did survive, and we have made it this far...
[Catrina swoons and Uther catches her.]
CATRINA
Forgive me, My Lord. I fear my trials have taken a toll.
UTHER
Your sufferings are beyond imagining, My Lady. It would be an honour to help you in
any way we can.
CATRINA
A bed for the night would be most welcome.
UTHER
And consider yourselves our esteemed guests. It's the least we can do.
CATRINA
Thank you.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UPPER CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Gaius and Merlin walking down a corridor, Gaius seems lost in thought.]
MERLIN
She's very brave.
GAIUS
Yes.
MERLIN
It's just terrible what she's been through.
GAIUS
Terrible, indeed.
MERLIN
What's wrong?
GAIUS
Nothing.
ARTHUR
Merlin! Job for you.
MERLIN
Work, work, work.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CATRINA’S GUEST CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin shows Catrina and Jonas her guest quarters.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry it's not quite what you're used to.
CATRINA
Forgive me, but I didn't get your name.
MERLIN
Merlin.
CATRINA
Well, Merlin, considering we spend last night in a cave, this will do very nicely.
Thank you.
MERLIN
Well, if you need anything, just ask. My master's chambers are only upstairs.
JONAS
My mistress and I could not be more grateful for the kindness you've shown us.
MERLIN
You're welcome.
[Merlin leaves.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
Well I can't sleep here. This whole place stinks of cleanliness.
JONAS
Do not worry, Mistress. I will find you somewhere more suitable.
[Troll (Catrina) breathes on fruit to rot it in seconds.]

--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM – NIGHT]
[Pendragons and Catrina at dinner.]
CATRINA
Well, this is wonderful. Thank you.
UTHER
It's an honour. The Houses of Tregor and Pendragon have been allies for as...well,
as long as anyone can remember.
CATRINA
My father often spoke of you, My Lord.
UTHER
And I will remember him always.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry I didn't get the chance to meet him.
CATRINA
I'm sorry too. For the House of Tregor is no more.
UTHER
Well, no, Catrina, it lives on in you.
CATRINA
I only wish that were true.
UTHER
It is, My Lady. Your courage, your modesty. And you are as you always were, ever
since you were a child.
CATRINA
Ah, I fear I am much changed since then, My Lord.
UTHER
Oh, yes, it's true. You are far more beautiful now.
ARTHUR (fake yawn)

I'm sorry, hard day's training. If you'll excuse me.
CATRINA
Of course.
UTHER (nods)
Arthur.
MORGANA
I should retire myself.
[Morgana and Arthur leave.]
UTHER (nods)
Morgana. Can I get you anything else? You've hardly touched your food.
CATRINA
I'm sorry, I find I have little appetite ever since that day.
UTHER
I wish I'd been there for you.
CATRINA
Oh, but you're helping me now. Your kindness, your companionship. I must also bid
you goodnight, My Lord. It's been a long day.
UTHER
Of course. Goodnight, My Lady.
--
[Gaius makes a potion.]
MERLIN
There's something really different about the Lady Catrina.
GAIUS
Oh?
MERLIN
Most of Uther's guests just treat me like I'm dirt in their shoes, but she was
really nice, even after all she's been through.
GAIUS
Yes. She always was very gracious.
MERLIN
You've met her before?
GAIUS
Oh, it was many years ago. I doubt that she would remember. Now, Merlin, I've got a
job for you.
MERLIN
Does it ever end?
GAIUS
Give this to the Lady Catrina with my compliments.
MERLIN
What is it?
GAIUS
She'll know what it is.
MERLIN
But what is it? Okay, okay.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CATRINA’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Lady Catrina enters her guest room and slumps into troll hunch.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
What's that?
[She sits down by tray full of fruit.]
JONAS
Compliments of the King.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Revolting.
[Troll (Catrina) rots the fruit by breathing on it.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
Uther's so stupid, so blinded by pretty things. Already he falls for me. I can see
it in his eyes. It's only a matter of time before he is completely under my
control.
JONAS
Excellent.
[Merlin knocks on door and enters and Troll (Catrina) wipes her face of rotten
fruit.]
CATRINA
Jonas, you must take these back to the kitchens, it's, er, it's perfectly rotten.
MERLIN
I--I'm sorry. I did not mean to intrude.
CATRINA
That's, er, that's quite alright. At least I wasn't undressing.
MERLIN (blushes)
Er, the court physician asked me to give you this.
JONAS
What is it?
MERLIN
Er, Gaius prepared it for you.
CATRINA
I am terribly sorry, there must be some mistake. I requested no medicine.
MERLIN
Oh. Oh. Are you sure?
CATRINA
Quite sure, thank you. I am in perfect health.
--
[Merlin slams the bottle on the table in front of Gaius.]
MERLIN
She didn't ask for it. She didn't need it. She didn't even want it.
GAIUS
Interesting.
MERLIN
If you say so.
GAIUS
When I treated her as a child, it was for an incurable disease. Catrina had a rare
bone disorder affecting her joints. She often had difficulty walking, especially
after a long ride. My tonic was the only thing that brought her relief.
MERLIN
She walks as well as you or I.
GAIUS
So I noticed.
MERLIN
So...the tonic was some kind of test?
GAIUS
Indeed. And I'm starting to wonder if the Lady Catrina is really the Lady Catrina
at all.
--
[Uther and Catrina prepare for a ride.]
CATRINA
What a charming idea this is, Uther.
UTHER
Yes. A ride before breakfast always gives me a healthy appetite. I've had the
kitchens prepare something special.
[Catrina looks revolted when she sees the picnic basket, but puts on a smile.]
CATRINA
Oh, how sweet of you.
--
[Merlin watches Catrina and Uther leave, then enters Catrina's guest room
cautiously to snoop around.]
JONAS
Can I help you?
MERLIN
No. Er, I-- I-- I was-- I was just changing the sheets.
JONAS
Please, go ahead. Don't let me get in your way.
MERLIN
All done. Thank you.
JONAS
Merlin. Aren't you forgetting something?
[Jonas turns around and Merlin catches a glimpse of a green forked tail. Jonas
holds out the laundry basket.]
--
[Merlin enters.]
GAIUS
What did you find?
MERLIN
Something wasn't right in there. There was this strange smell, and I could've sworn
the Lady Catrina's bed hadn't been slept in. And there was something else.
GAIUS
Oh?
MERLIN
Jonas. As I was leaving, I thought I saw something...this is gonna sound mad, but
it looked like Jonas had a tail.
GAIUS
A tail? You sure?
MERLIN
Well, I mean, I only glimpsed it for a moment. I-I mean, I could be wrong...
GAIUS
No, no, I believe you. Merlin, we must keep an eye on her. A very close eye.
--
[EXT. STREAM – DAY]
[Uther and Catrina have a riverside picnic.]
CATRINA
How wonderful it is to sit here with you, Uther. It is a terrible thing to find
oneself alone in the world, suddenly, cruelly alone.
UTHER
When Ygraine died, I feared I'd never recover.
[Catrina tosses her food into the river when Uther’s not looking.]
UTHER
But then as time passed, I've become used to being alone.
CATRINA
But you have Morgana and Arthur. Surely they are a comfort to you?
UTHER
They are. Of course they are, both of them.
CATRINA
It must be hard to be king and father both. To shoulder all that responsibility all
by yourself. But I feel sure, My Lord, that you and I shall not remain alone
forever. We will find love anew. A kindred spirit to share the burden of this life.
UTHER
I believe we will.
--
[Uther helps Catrina down from her horse and they giggle. Arthur and Merlin look on
while grooming a horse.]
ARTHUR
Honestly. Look at them.
UTHER
Are you alright?
MERLIN
Don't you think it's odd how quickly they've become close?
ARTHUR
There's nothing odd about that. My father's a wealthy and powerful man.
--
GAIUS
Good evening, Sire.
UTHER
A very good evening to you, Gaius.
GAIUS
You seem in very high spirits.
UTHER
I am, I am.
GAIUS
The Lady Catrina, she has struck a chord with you.
UTHER
Catrina is a remarkable woman.
GAIUS
That she is, Sire. You may remember I treated her as a child. Such courage in the
face of her condition.
UTHER
Condition? What are you talking about?
GAIUS
Oh, I thought you knew, Sire. I diagnosed Catrina with an incurable bone disease.
UTHER
Well, evidently you were wrong. There's nothing the matter with her now.
GAIUS
It has been a miraculous recovery, I must say.
UTHER
I'm sorry, Gaius. What are you suggesting?
GAIUS
Oh, I'm not suggesting anything, Sire. It's just a little strange, that's all.
UTHER
The only thing I see as strange is that you won't admit that you were wrong.
GAIUS
Sire, this is not about me. It's about the Lady Catrina.
UTHER
The Lady Catrina is our honoured guest, and you will show her the respect that she
deserves.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Catrina and Uther relax on some pillows, sipping wine by firelight.]
CATRINA
Is there something on your mind, My Lord?
UTHER
No, it's nothing.
CATRINA
Speak, My Lord.
UTHER
Is it true that, as a child, you suffered from an interminable illness?
CATRINA
Who told you that?
UTHER
Gaius, the court physician. He said he treated you for it.
CATRINA
Yes, My Lord. What he says is true. But, as you see, I suffer no more.
UTHER
And for that you must be eternally grateful. After all, Gaius thought your
condition was incurable, did he not?
CATRINA
Well, fortunately for us, physicians are often mistaken. Even your famous Gaius.
UTHER
It is unusual, though, for such a serious illness to cure itself. Almost a miracle.
CATRINA
I can neither deny it, nor explain it, but miracles do happen. After all, is it not
a miracle that we should have found each other again after all this time? And my
good fortune continues. For you are a remarkable man, Uther Pendragon. You are
brave, but compassionate. You are powerful, but modest. And most of all, you are
very, very handsome.
[Catrina tries to kiss him.]
UTHER
I'm sorry.
CATRINA
No, no, no, My Lord. It is I who must apologise.
UTHER
It's a long time since Ygraine...since anyone...
CATRINA
I--I understand completely. There's no hurry. We have all the time in the world.
UTHER
And the time will come, I assure you.
[Catrina exits the castle, Merlin follows briefly.]
--
[Arthur is asleep in his chambers. Merlin takes the mirror from his bedside and
floats it out the window to see Catrina!Troll.]
MERLIN
Scéawere, folge min bebod.
ARTHUR
Merlin.
[Merlin spins around and the mirror crashes.]
ARTHUR
I have no doubt, Merlin, that you have prepared a very good explanation for this.
MERLIN
Yes. No. Er...
ARTHUR
Apparently I'm wrong.
[Arthur shoves Merlin out of the way and looks out the window, seeing the broken
mirror.]
ARTHUR
Please tell me you weren't spying on Lady Catrina.
MERLIN
It's not what it seems.
ARTHUR
Yes, Merlin. It's exactly what it seems. You have led a sheltered life, you have no
social skills whatsoever, and Catrina is, I admit, an attractive woman. I
understand completely. And if I ever find you doing it again, I'll feed you to the
dogs. Do I make myself clear?
MERLIN
Yes, absolutely, Sire.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, TROLL’S NEST – NIGHT]
[Merlin follows the troll to tunnels under the castle. Jonas sees him.]
GAIUS
What you saw is seldom seen, Merlin. Trolls despise all other living things,
especially humans. They prefer to lurk in the darkness of their nests, feasting on
rotten filth.
MERLIN
And Jonas? Is he a troll too?
GAIUS
Who can tell what manner of creature he is.
MERLIN
It makes no sense. If trolls like to lurk in their caves so much , what's this one
doing in Camelot?
GAIUS
Trolls are greedy. Lady Catrina's like the rest of her kind; she lusts after wealth
and power.
MERLIN
Uther's wealth and power.
GAIUS
We've reached the point of no return. Uther has to be told.
MERLIN
You're going to tell Uther that his lady friend's a troll?
GAIUS
That's exactly what I'm going to do.
MERLIN
Good luck.
GAIUS
Thank you, Merlin.
--
[Uther watches Catrina in the square through the window.]
GAIUS
My Lord.
UTHER
Yes, Gaius?
GAIUS
I have served you for many years now. I like to think that, in my humble capacity,
I've advised you to the best of my ability, and that my advice has proven to of
value to you.
UTHER
Yes, this is true.
GAIUS
And so I must advise you that the Lady Catrina is not all that she seems to be.
UTHER
Well then tell me, Gaius, who is she?
GAIUS
I believe her to be...she is...she's...
UTHER
Oh, come on. Out with it.
GAIUS
She is a troll, Sire.
UTHER
Excuse me?
GAIUS
Some trolls have the power to take any shape they please. This one has taken a
shape that pleases you. You are besotted, My Lord. The creature has you in its
power.
UTHER
Gaius, this is a little ludicrous.
GAIUS
Please, Sire, her entire family is wiped out, but she alone escapes? She has an
incurable disease, but makes a miraculous recovery?
UTHER
And that is nothing but idle gossip.
GAIUS
And is it gossip she does not eat her food? Of course she doesn't. She feasts off
rotten fruit like any other troll.
UTHER
Enough. This attack is unwarranted and malicious.
GAIUS
Sire, her servant is not human. He has a tail.
UTHER
I said enough!
GAIUS
Sire, please, I just advise you not to do anything rash.
UTHER
And I advise you to hold your tongue, physician, or I will indeed do something
rash.
--
[Jonas waits for Catrina.]
JONAS
Did you sleep well last night, Mistress?
TROLL (CATRINA)
Very well, thank you.
JONAS
We have a problem. Last night you were followed.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Who?
JONAS
The boy, Merlin.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Merlin.
JONAS
Shall I dispose of him, Mistress?
TROLL (CATRINA)
No, no, no. That may arouse suspicion. No. But it is time that Uther bent to my
wishes.
JONAS
And if he does not?
TROLL (CATRINA)
Well, he'll have no choice. There's more than one way to enchant a man.
--
[Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Please don't say anything, Merlin.
MERLIN
I wasn't going to say anything.
GAIUS
You were going to say, "I told you so."
MERLIN
OK. I was. But I...I'm not going to now.
GAIUS
Uther didn't take to it well.
MERLIN
Augh, you see? I told you...Sorry.
GAIUS
But I know him, Merlin. He's a proud man, but he's not stupid. He will reflect on
what I said, I'm sure he will.
MERLIN
Let's hope you're right.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CATRINA'S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
TROLL (CATRINA)
Ic nemne þá grædige, yfele, formolsnung. mé getryme. Nu meaht þú begalan. Nu meaht
þú begalan.
[Catrina!Troll enchants a necklace with her blood.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
Dinner time. *cackle*
--
[Uther and Catrina at dinner.]
CATRINA
Isn't this perfect? You and me together. A toast. A toast to us.
UTHER
I'm not sure everyone sees it that way.
CATRINA
Well, there will always be those who resist change. That's to be expected.
UTHER
We must be mindful of public opinion.
CATRINA
What are you trying to say, My Lord?
UTHER
Perhaps if you were to visit your cousins for a while to show people that we're not
rushing into anything.
CATRINA
You would let yourself be bullied by some petty minded fools? But of course, of
course, My Lord. If that is what you wish, then that is what I shall do.
UTHER
It is as you said, we have all the time in the world.
CATRINA
Before I go, My Lord, there's something I want to give you. It belonged to my
father, and his father before him.
UTHER
Catrina, I couldn't possibly...
CATRINA
No, no, no, My Lord. I want you to have it. Perhaps when you look at it, it will
remind you of me.
[She puts the enchanted necklace around Uther’s neck.]
CATRINA
And of the times that we have spent together.
UTHER
I shall wear it always.
CATRINA
That is as well, My Lord. For while others doubt me, you must not. You cannot doubt
me. For am I not beautiful, My Lord?
UTHER
You are beautiful.
CATRINA
Am I not your heart's desire?
UTHER
You are my heart's desire.
CATRINA
Then seal it, My Lord. Seal it with a kiss.
UTHER
Yes. A kiss.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, TROLL’S NEST – DAY]
[Troll eats in a rotten heap under the castle.]
JONAS
Good morning, Mistress.
TROLL
It is, indeed, Jonas.
JONAS
The King was receptive to your advances.
TROLL
How could he resist such beauty?
JONAS
The enchantment proved affective, then?
TROLL
Ah, he is but a puppet in my hand! *cackle*
--
[Gaius approaches Uther.]
GAIUS
You called for me, Sire?
UTHER
Ah, Gaius. You'll be delighted to hear that none of the worries you brought to my
attention have any truth to them whatsoever.
GAIUS
Sire?
UTHER
I hope over time you will come to see Lady Catrina as she really is.
GAIUS
Over time?
UTHER
I have asked Catrina to extend her stay indefinitely.
GAIUS
But...
UTHER
I consider the matter closed, and I hope you show me the courtesy of doing the
same.
--
GAIUS
It's no good, Merlin. I can tell him she's a troll until I'm blue in the face, he
simply won't listen. He sees a charming, beautiful woman.
MERLIN
Yeah, with a body like a tree trunk.
GAIUS
But we only know that because you saw her in the troll form.
MERLIN
So, what do we do?
GAIUS
We must open Uther's eyes, show her for what she really is.
MERLIN
Using magic?
GAIUS
It's the only way to reveal her true form.
MERLIN
But she never leaves his side.
GAIUS
I know.
MERLIN
You want me to use magic in front of the King?
GAIUS
Yes, Merlin, I do.
MERLIN
I--I'd never get away with it.
GAIUS
I'm sorry, Merlin. I know how dangerous this is, but we cannot allow it to gain any
further control over the King. Who knows what the consequences might be?
MERLIN
Just one problem. I know nothing about troll magic.
GAIUS
Then we have work to do.
--
[Catrina and Uther overlook the city.]
CATRINA
A beautiful day.
UTHER
The first of many, I hope.
CATRINA
How fine it must be to have all of this at your command.
UTHER
It can be a burden sometimes.
CATRINA
Well, let me share your burden, My Lord. Together we could achieve so much.
UTHER
You know there's nothing I'd love more.
CATRINA
Oh, and My Lord...
UTHER
Hmm?
CATRINA
Would it not be a good idea send a message to those who doubt us? To show all of
Camelot the strength of our love, our commitment?
UTHER
Yes. What did you have in mind?
CATRINA
Well, I was thinking of something traditional. Something permanent.
--
[Gaius sleeps on books, Merlin reads one.]
MERLIN
Here. The spell of revelation. By which the true nature of the thing may be
revealed.
GAIUS
But this applies only to objects, things, not to living creatures.
MERLIN
I know. The principle's the same, isn't it? I have to try it. What other choice do
we have?
GAIUS
Very well. But Merlin, choose your moment carefully. Trolls are vicious creatures.
[A knock at the door.]
GAIUS
Come in.
GUARD
The King requests your presence in the council chambers.
--
[Uther enters with Catrina on his arm.]
UTHER
Thank you all for coming. You are, no doubt, wondering why I have gathered you here
today. Though we live in dark times, today I bring you light, and love. It gives me
greatest pleasure to inform you that the Houses of Tregor and Pendragon are to be
united in the closest bond of all. I am to marry Lady Catrina of Tregor. I am to
marry Lady Catrina tomorrow. This union heralds a new dawn for the kingdom, a new
beginning...
MERLIN (whisper)
Hierste þæt íecen sóna.
UTHER
...and a new queen for all here in Camelot.
MERLIN (whisper)
UTHER
I could not hope to have made a better match.
MERLIN (whisper)
UTHER
I hope you will all share in our joy.
[Applause.]
UTHER
Thank you.
--
[Jonas and Catrina!Troll enter.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
What happened?
JONAS
I'm sorry, Mistress. I was not prepared.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Quickly, my potion.
JONAS
It was the boy, Merlin. It seems he has magic.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Do not concern yourself. I resisted him easily enough.
JONAS
But there's no telling what he'll do next! He could ruin everything!
TROLL (CATRINA)
That cannot be allowed to happen!
JONAS
What would you have me do, Mistress?
TROLL (CATRINA)
I think it's time we set a trap.
--
[Merlin and Gaius enter.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry. I tried. I gave it everything I had.
GAIUS
It's not your fault, Merlin. You did your best.
MERLIN
The spell of revelation is powerful magic. And she could feel it, I could see she
could feel it.
GAIUS
Her magic must be strong, indeed, to be able to resist you. Where are you going?
MERLIN
To see Arthur! He's our only hope!
GAIUS
Merlin!
--
[Merlin approaches Arthur hesitantly.]
ARTHUR
Yes?
MERLIN
Arthur. I'm going to tell you something. It's not going to be easy.
ARTHUR
Right.
MERLIN
It concerns the Lady Catrina.
ARTHUR
You're not using my chambers to spy on her again.
MERLIN
Oh, no. Trust me, I saw everything I needed to see.
ARTHUR
I'm sure you did.
MERLIN
Arthur. She's a troll.
ARTHUR (laughs)
She's not that bad.
MERLIN
I'm serious. She is. She's an actual troll.
ARTHUR
Merlin, I know what you're trying to do, and I appreciate it. You're a true friend.
But it's not about whether I like her or not, it's about what makes my father
happy. And when they announced the wedding today, I realised that Lady Catrina does
just that. She makes him happy.
MERLIN
Well, he won't be so damn happy when he discovers his wife's a fruit munching
monster.
ARTHUR
That's enough, Merlin.
MERLIN
But...
ARTHUR
She's the future queen of Camelot whether you like it or not. So you better get
used to it.
--
[Merlin hears fake weeping.]
MERLIN
Hello?
JONAS
Master Merlin. I'm sorry.
MERLIN
What's wrong with you?
JONAS
I'm a slave. A prisoner.
MERLIN
JONAS
My mistress, she's not as she seems. But you know as much.
MERLIN
Go on, I'm listening.
JONAS
She is a cruel, wicked creature. She keeps me in chains. She hurts me. Her magic,
I-I can't escape it. She twists my mind as she is twisting the mind of your King.
MERLIN
Why are you telling me this?
JONAS
I can help you.
MERLIN
How?
JONAS
Below the castle, where she sleeps, she keeps her potions there. Every night she
must take these potions, it is the magic that transforms her from beast to beauty.
If you were to take these from her, she must remain as a beast, and then your King
would not be so keen, I think.
MERLIN
Tell me, Jonas, why should I believe any of this?
JONAS
You must do as you think fit, Master Merlin, but if my mistress is not stopped, by
morning she will be queen.
--
[Merlin goes to the Troll's nest.]
TROLL
You won't find anything in there. You may possess some magic, wretch, but you are
no match for me.
[The Troll magically collapses tunnel entrance, trapping Merlin inside.]
--
[Gaius looks for Merlin.]
GAIUS
Merlin?
--
[Merlin is stuck under Camelot, trying to unblock tunnel entrance.]
MERLIN
Ic ábíetee pæt stánhol. (repeats)
--
[Catrina!Troll prepares for wedding.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
Jonas, have I ever looked more revolting?
JONAS
No, Mistress.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Oh, Jonas. You always say the right thing.
--
MERLIN
Ic ábíetee pæt stánhol!
--
[Arthur and Uther enter.]
--
MERLIN
Ic ábíetee pæt stánhol.
--
[Catrina enters.]
--
MERLIN
Ic ábíetee pæt stánhol!
[Merlin’s spell unblocks the entrance.]
--
[Geoffrey of Monmouth presides over the wedding ceremony.]
GEOFFREY
My lords, ladies, and gentlemen of Camelot, we are gathered here today to
celebrate, by the ancient right of handfasting, the union of Uther Pendragon and
Lady Catrina of Tregor.
[Merlin rushes through the Courtyard Corridor.]
GEOFFREY
Is it your wish, Uther, to become one with this woman?
UTHER
It is.
GEOFFREY
Is it your wish, Catrina, to become one with this man?
CATRINA
It is.
GEOFFREY
Do any say nay?
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Merlin dashes through the Red Ribbon Chamber to reach the throne room, but Jonas
steps in his way.]
JONAS
Master Merlin, can I help you? Are you lost?
MERLIN
Step aside, Jonas.
JONAS
The King's wedding is by invitation only.
MERLIN
I said, get out of my way!
JONAS
So sorry, but I regret to say, that you are not invited.
--
GEOFFREY
With this garland, I do tie a knot, and by doing so, bind your hands and your
hearts for all eternity.
--
JONAS
Leave my mistress alone!
--
UTHER
I, Uther Pendragon, King of Camelot, I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I
shall respect thee as I respect myself.
--
MERLIN
Ic þé wiþdríf!
--
GEOFFREY
I now pronounce you to be husband and wife.
[Merlin bursts in just as Uther and Catrina kiss. The court applauds. Catrina
scowls when she sees Merlin.]
----------------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:31
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BBC Merlin: 2x06 Beauty and the Beast, Part Two
KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CATRINA’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Queen Catrina relaxes in her chambers.]
JONAS
You look positively foul. Does the enchantment hold?
TROLL (CATRINA)
It works a treat. Uther is like a puppet on a string.
JONAS
What about the boy, Merlin? He knows your secret.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Leave him to me. *cackle*
[Uther enters, Jonas bows and exits.]
JONAS
My Lord.
UTHER
Darling, we are alone at last. What's wrong?
TROLL (CATRINA)
I'm sorry. It's not you. I want this more than anything. This has been the happiest
day of my life.
UTHER
Then what is it?
TROLL (CATRINA)
When I was forced to flee my home, the one thing I was able to take with me was my
family seal.
UTHER
Yes, you showed it to me when you first arrived.
TROLL (CATRINA)
It's the only surviving link I have to my father, and now it's gone. Stolen from my
chambers.
UTHER
Who could've done such a thing?
TROLL (CATRINA)
Oh no, please, I don't want to cause any trouble. Not on a day that should be
filled with such joy.
UTHER
Catrina, who took your seal?
TROLL (CATRINA)
It was Arthur's servant, Merlin.
--
[Arthur walking past the battlements with the palace guards.]
ARTHUR
Search the stables. You, check the kitchens. And alert the guard on the south gate!
GUARD
Search in there. This way!
--
[Sir Leon and guards enter.]
SIR LEON
Where's Merlin?
GAIUS
Where he always is at this time: working for Arthur. What's this about?
SIR LEON
We've come to arrest him, by order of the King.
--
[Merlin goes about his duties. Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
You need to get out of here. The King's ordered me to arrest you.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Catrina's accused you of taking her seal.
MERLIN
But I didn't.
ARTHUR
I don't want to know, and you haven't got time to explain. If you value your life,
you'll leave Camelot right now.
MERLIN
Arthur, she is a troll, and she's trying to set me up.
ARTHUR
We've been through this.
MERLIN
I'm telling the truth. I saw her.
[Guards knock on the door.]
ARTHUR
I don't care. You need to leave, Merlin.
[Guards knock on the door.]
GUARD
Sire!
ARTHUR
Go. Go!
[Merlin exits the back way before guards enter the Prince's room.]
--
[Arthur stands before Uther and Catrina.]
ARTHUR
I fear he may have slipped through our net.
CATRINA
You're very quick to give up the chase.
ARTHUR
That is because I know my quarry is long gone.
UTHER
How can you be so certain?
ARTHUR
Well, despite appearances, Merlin isn't stupid. He must've got wind that we were
looking for him and left.
CATRINA
Outwitting your army in the process.
ARTHUR
It appears so.
CATRINA
I thought your men aspired to the same high standards that my father instilled in
you.
UTHER
When I led the army, they did.
ARTHUR
We don't even know if he's still in Camelot. He could be anywhere.
CATRINA
And that's a good enough reason to give up?
ARTHUR
No, I'm not. It's just that I believe our resources would be better...
UTHER
I've had enough of your excuses. We both have. I want the boy found.
ARTHUR
Sire. My Lady.
[Arthur bows to each of them and exits.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE – DAY]
[Troll eating somewhere in the castle.]
TROLL
My plan to undermine Arthur is underway. Soon Uther will detest the sight of his
own son.
[The Troll stops and sniffs the air.]
TROLL
What's that, then? What is that smell?
JONAS
A treat. To celebrate. Fresh from the stables.
TROLL
Oh, Jonas, you do know how to treat a lady.
--
[Guards are out looking for Merlin in the woods. They find a scarf and an old
campfire.]
GUARD
Alert the rest of the guards!
--
[Guards return to Camelot and Gwen talks to Gaius in the street.]
GWEN
They found Merlin's trail. They say he's heading for the northern borders.
GAIUS
I'm sure he'll outrun them.
GWEN
What if he can't? Uther won't show him any mercy.
GAIUS
Try not to worry, Gwen.
--
[Gaius returns and knocks on a barrel full of grain, Merlin emerges.]
MERLIN
That was comfortable.
GAIUS
A necessary evil, I'm afraid. They picked up the trail that we left, but it won't
fool them for long.
MERLIN
Then I'd better get busy.
GAIUS
And Merlin, be careful. The guards are still searching for you.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Catrina itches as she walks back to her chambers, Merlin spies on them through a
grate in the wall.]
JONAS
Mistress, it is time.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Do I have to?
JONAS
You must keep up the pretence!
TROLL (CATRINA)
I hate being like this! So clean! It's revolting. I can't keep it up. This skin,
this face! I just want to claw it off!
JONAS
Think of all the money, and the power. Soon it will all be yours.
[Merlin sees her take the potion. The troll skin disappears. Merlin runs to hide
when Catrina exits.]
--
[Arthur stands before Uther and Catrina.]
UTHER
There's something important that I...we wish you to address. For too long, the
people have had it easy. They've grown fat off our indulgence of them.
ARTHUR
How so?
UTHER
We provide peace, protection, food. They give us very little in return.
ARTHUR
Most of our people are poor. They survive on the few crops they're able to grow.
CATRINA
That is what they would have us believe.
ARTHUR
It's what I see every day.
UTHER
We're introducing a new tax.
CATRINA
The people must for the sanctuary that Camelot provides.
ARTHUR
You can't. The majority are barely able to get by as it is.
UTHER
Those who refuse to pay it will be arrested and publicly flogged.
ARTHUR
We've lived this way for years. You've never suggested anything like this before.
CATRINA
Maybe not to you, but the King confided in me that he has been considering this for
some time, haven't you?
UTHER
Yes, I have. You are to begin the collections at once.
--
[Merlin sneaks into Catrina's chambers while Jonas is sleeping.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Tospringe.
[Merlin takes the potion bottle.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE , PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
MERLIN
I saw her drink some of this potion and a patch of troll skin on her arm
disappeared.
GAIUS
It must be pretty powerful magic to physically change her like that.
MERLIN
Could you make a potion that looks and tastes the same as this?
GAIUS
I don't know. Yes, I suppose so, but without the troll magic, it wouldn't have the
same effect.
MERLIN
Exactly. If I can replace this potion with one that isn't magical.
GAIUS
Ah, so Catrina will keep taking it, but it'll no longer work.
MERLIN
And she'll turn into a troll. Think you can do it?
GAIUS
I don't know.
MERLIN
We have to make the switch before morning or Jonas will notice.
GAIUS
Then it's going to be a long night.
--
[Catrina enters her chambers warily.]
UTHER
My Lady.
[Catrina is unpleasantly startled.]
CATRINA
My Liege.
UTHER
I brought you flowers picked from the royal garden.
CATRINA
Oh, well they're...they're lovely.
UTHER
Not as lovely as you.
CATRINA
Achoo!
UTHER
Are you all right?
CATRINA
I'm sorry. I don't think I can keep this up any longer.
UTHER
Keep what up?
CATRINA
The lie. I can't keep pretending like this. I'm beginning to wonder if you're
really the man I thought you were, the man I fell in love with. The man I married
was firm, strong, in both mind and body.
UTHER
Trust me, I am all of those, and more.
CATRINA
I fear for Camelot. Arthur has not taken after his father. He is too weak to make
the hard decisions.
UTHER
Then it's lucky I'm in such rude health.
CATRINA
Lucky, indeed, but what if some tragedy were to befall you?
UTHER
Let me worry about Arthur.
CATRINA
No, I can't. Your love for him has made you blind to his faults.
UTHER
I judge Arthur the same as the rest of my men. If he excels, he is rewarded. If he
fails, he is punished.
CATRINA
Well, so long as you're sure of that.
UTHER
I am. Now let me take your mind off this. I promise, our first night as husband and
wife will be one to remember.
[Catrina breathes on him to knock him out.]

--
[Gaius replicating potion.]
MERLIN
What's in it?
GAIUS
Nothing too potent. Rat's guts.
MERLIN
Nice.
GAIUS
Toad paste. Take two toads, grind them up...
MERLIN
No, I get the picture.
GAIUS
Horse dung. Crushed sheep's eyeball.
MERLIN
Oh, lovely.
GAIUS
Pond scum. Three wolf spiders. And what potion isn't complete without a dash of
sheep's brain?
MERLIN
Sounds delicious.
GAIUS
Good, 'cause you're going to taste it.
MERLIN
No way.
GAIUS
It's completely harmless.
MERLIN
Er, no. *gags* That is...ugh. That is disgusting.
GAIUS
Yes, to you, but not to a troll.
MERLIN
I can't even believe you let me put that in my mouth.
GAIUS
Yes, well, try the original.
MERLIN
Oh...
GAIUS
Just a small amount. And be sure to spit it out.
[Merlin gags and spits.]
GAIUS
Does it taste roughly the same?
MERLIN
Yes! It's horrible.
GAIUS
Are you sure? Because if there's too big a difference, Catrina will notice.
MERLIN
It tastes exactly the same.
GAIUS
Well, let's hope she thinks so, too.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR/CATRINA’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin sneaks past patrolling guards in Catrina's corridor and puts fake potion
back in her chamber.]
MERLIN
Tospringe.
[Merlin hears someone coming and hides in wardrobe. Jonas enters and sits. Merlin
notices he left the cupboard door open.]
MERLIN
Fýrbendum fæst.
[Jonas investigates the cupboard noise.]
--
[Arthur takes a walk. He sees guards wrestling with a man.]
ARTHUR
What do you think you're doing?!
GUARD
He's refusing to pay the King's tax.
MAN
You-- you ask for too much.
[Gwen comes out of her house.]
MAN
I've given all I can.
GUARD
That's not enough!
[The crowd stares at Arthur imploringly.]
ARTHUR
Let me see.
[Arthur looks in the money pouch and hands it to the man.]
ARTHUR
Release him.
GUARD
The King said...
ARTHUR
Release him. Give them back their money. All of it.
[Arthur leaves and people smile and bow to him.]
--
[Arthur standing before Uther and Catrina.]
UTHER
I gave you a direct order.
ARTHUR
The people cannot afford to pay the tax.
CATRINA
Don't tell me you're naïve enough to take them at their word?
ARTHUR
We have their loyalty, their goodwill. Do not forsake that by making unreasonable
demands.
CATRINA
Is it so unreasonable for a king to expect his subjects to obey him?
ARTHUR
They'll starve!
UTHER
Nonsense. They've grown too soft. Remember, these are your subjects, not your
friends.
ARTHUR
And why can't they be both?
UTHER
Because we rule the people, not the other way around.
ARTHUR
I think you're wrong.
UTHER
I beg your pardon?
ARTHUR
I said you're wrong. Without the people there is no Camelot. We're as much their
servant as they are ours.
CATRINA
You allow him to address you in this manner?
UTHER
No I do not. It will not be tolerated. You will take your men down into the town
and go to every house collecting the payments I demand.
ARTHUR
I will not.
UTHER
Get out of my sight.
[Arthur bows and exits.]
UTHER
How can he do this to me? My own son? After all the sacrifices I've made for him!
CATRINA
Oh, you are tense.
UTHER
Is it any surprise? The lack of respect he shows me.
CATRINA
Oh, I'm sorry. Did that hurt?
UTHER
No, of course not. No, it's...but your hands are surprisingly strong for one so
delicate.
CATRINA
Arthur carries a heavy burden. It can't be easy holding all that responsibility at
such a tender age.
UTHER
I'm afraid that's the way it has to be. After all, I cannot rule Camelot alone.
CATRINA
Well, you don't have to. You married me, remember?
UTHER
How can I forget?
[Uther tries to kiss Catrina.]
CATRINA
I'm sorry, I can't. I'm too worried about you. With Arthur letting you down the way
he has, how will you cope? Like you said, you can't rule Camelot alone.
UTHER
I have you by my side.
CATRINA
Oh, I may be your queen, but I have no power.
UTHER
Why not?
CATRINA
Well, the people wouldn't respect me as they do Arthur. I'm not heir to the throne.
UTHER
Would it put your mind at rest if you were?
CATRINA
Oh, it would. It most definitely would.
UTHER
Then you shall be. The ceremony will take place this afternoon.
[Catrina breathes on Uther to knock him out.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CATRINA’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin still hiding in wardrobe. Catrina!Troll enters.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
Jonas, it's time for my potion.
JONAS
Are your plans progressing as you'd hoped.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Yes, not a moment too soon.
[Catrina!Troll seems to notice something and walks over to wardrobe only to look in
the mirror.]
TROLL (CATRINA)
I must admit, though, that crown will look rather fetching. All that gold, and them
lovely jewels.
CATRINA
Now, would you care to accompany your queen?
[They exit. Merlin comes out of hiding and exits.]
--
[Arthur pouts in his chambers. There’s a knock at the door.]
ARTHUR
Come in. Guinevere!
GWEN
I saw what you did earlier. The people owe you a debt of gratitude.
ARTHUR
The people owe me nothing. My father's still going to impose the tax.
GWEN
Will he not be persuaded?
ARTHUR
Not by me. He can't stand the sight of me.
GWEN
That's not true. The King loves you.
ARTHUR
You should've heard the way he spoke to me.
GWEN
I'm sure he was angry, but you're still his son. Everyone appreciates what you did.
They know you tried, and they won't forget that.
ARTHUR
Maybe he's right. One day I will be the King of Camelot, and I cannot be a friend
to the people as well as their ruler.
GWEN
That's not true, and you will prove it when you become King. You've a kind heart,
Arthur. Don't ever change. Not for anyone.
[A knock at the door. Leon enters.]
SIR LEON
The King has sent for you.
--
[Arthur enters. The full council is assembled.]
ARTHUR
Father?
UTHER
I'm relaxing your duties, revoking your title.
ARTHUR
What?
UTHER
We live in dangerous times, I cannot allow you to undermine my authority.
ARTHUR
You've always welcomed my counsel in the past.
UTHER
You stood against me for all the people to see.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry. Any future grievance I have will be held in private.
UTHER
No, it's too late for that.
ARTHUR
Father, this is...
UTHER
You are to be disinherited, with immediate effect. You are no longer Crown Prince
of Camelot.
GAIUS
Sire, Arthur is your son, your natural heir...
ARTHUR
Gaius...You've always taught me to be true to my heart, and that's all I've ever
tried to do. To be the man you wanted me to be. Someone you were proud to call your
son.
UTHER
My decision is final.
[Arthur leaves.]
UTHER
Queen Catrina will be named as rightful heir to the throne. The ceremony will begin
forthwith.
[Sir Leon begins the slow clap.]
--
[Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
We've done it! Catrina's drank the fake potion. What's wrong? What's happened?
GAIUS
Uther has disinherited Arthur and made Catrina his heir.
MERLIN
So if Uther dies, she will rule Camelot.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES – DAY]
GEOFFREY
We are gathered here to bear witness to the naming of Queen Catrina as the rightful
heir to Camelot. Are you willing to take the oath?
CATRINA
I am.
GEOFFREY
Do you solemnly swear to govern the people of Camelot, to uphold the laws and
customs of the land?
CATRINA
I...do. *itches*
GEOFFREY
Will you, to your power cause law and justice in mercy to be executed in all your
judgments?
CATRINA
I will.
GEOFFREY
Will you, to the utmost of your powers...
[Catrina checks her arm and sees troll skin.]
GEOFFREY
...maintain the laws...
CATRINA
Yes, yes.
GEOFFREY
I'm sorry, you-you must let me finish. The wording must be exactly right to be
binding.
CATRINA
Well, get on with it then. I mean, really, where did you dig up this old crone
from?
UTHER
She's right. Get on with it.
GEOFFREY
Will you, to the utmost of your powers...
CATRINA
Yes, yes.
GEOFFREY
...maintain the laws and customs...
CATRINA
I will, I will.
GEOFFREY
...of the land, and serve the people of Camelot?
CATRINA
Yes! Just shut up and give me the crown!
[The court gasps. Geoffrey presents the crown to Catrina.]
CATRINA
Will you just hurry up!
[Catrina grabs crown and jams it on her head while running out of the Hall of
Ceremonies.]
UTHER
Catrina!
[Uther follows her into the Red Ribbon Corridor followed shortly by Morgana, Jonas,
and Merlin. Catrina tries to find a way to escape.]
UTHER
Catrina!
[Guards point him toward the Council Chamber of Doom.]
UTHER Catrina!
[Merlin magically closes the council chamber doors so Catrina can't escape.]
UTHER
Whatever's the matter?
CATRINA
I'm sorry...[hides troll arm.] I don't know what came over me. I, I just suddenly
felt so hot. I, do you know, I think I need to be on my own, alright?
MORGANA
Are you alright?
CATRINA
Yes, yes, I'm, I'm fine. Really, thank you. I just...
MERLIN
Fýrbendum fæst.
[Merlin’s spell locks the door.]
CATRINA
Come on. Come on.
TROLL (CATRINA)
Open!
ARTHUR
Let me.
[Arthur sees Catrina’s troll arm and backs away.]
ARTHUR
What's that?
[Catrina begins to transform.]
MORGANA
What's happening? Somebody help her!
[Catrina completely transforms.]
ARTHUR
You're a troll!
TROLL
*gasp*
[Uther’s reverie is broken.]
UTHER
How dare you speak about her like that!
ARTHUR
What is wrong with you? Look at the state of her!
MORGANA
I don't believe it.
[The troll rips open the door and exits with a snarl.]
ARTHUR
She just ripped a door off its hinges. Doesn't that tell you something?
UTHER
Enough!
ARTHUR
She's a troll! A giant...grey...
MORGANA
Stinking.
ARTHUR
Stinking troll!
UTHER
Stop it! Haven't you hurt her feelings enough? Insult my wife again, it'll be the
last thing you ever do.
[Morgana and Arthur stare slackjawed at Uther as he picks up Catrina’s shoes and
crown and exits.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CATRINA’S CHAMBERS]
[Uther goes to his troll wife.]
UTHER
I'm so sorry that you had to hear those terrible things.
TROLL
He-- he-- he's just taking time to adjust. He'll soon get used to having a
stepmother around.
UTHER
How could he compare such beauty with a troll?
TROLL (shrug)
Search me. I washed my face and everything.
[Uther kisses her forehead.]
TROLL
What is it?
UTHER
It's just your scent, it's-- it's so...fragrant.
TROLL
Hmm. Well, it's er, it's mostly...dung.
UTHER
And such a sense of humour, too. I was so blessed it was my castle you came to.
That I may look upon this vision every day.
TROLL
Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
UTHER
And I shall behold it.
--
[Council members enter to approach Uther.]
UTHER
I wasn't aware we were due to convene the council. What's this about? Come on.
Someone speak up.
GAIUS
I'm afraid it's your wife, Sire.
UTHER
Yes, what about her?
GAIUS
It's a rather delicate matter, Sire.
UTHER
Gaius, you've been my trusted advisor for many years. You can speak as you will.
GAIUS
I don't suppose it's escaped your notice, Sire, but we just...just wanted to make
absolutely certain. You do realise your wife is a troll, Sire.
UTHER
I beg your pardon?
GAIUS
At least that's the way she looks to us. What with the warts, and the nose...
SIR LEON
And the smell.
UTHER
The smell? What?
GAIUS
She also has, what appears to be, a set of fangs.
UTHER
What?
SIR LEON
I wouldn't really say they were fangs. More like tusks.
GAIUS
Yes, they are more like tusks. Not that we're saying that's necessarily a bad
thing. I just thought I ought to point it out to you in case it had passed you by.
UTHER
The next person to insult Queen Catrina will be charged with treason, and beheaded
according to the laws of the land.
--
GAIUS
Uther must be enchanted. It's the only explanation.
MERLIN
Which is why we have to find a way to break it.
GAIUS
You won't find anything in your magic books. Troll enchantments are too strong.
MERLIN
Then what are we going to do?
GAIUS
You must speak to the dragon. If there's a way to break Catrina's hold on Uther,
he'll know it. But be careful, dragons and trolls have been close allies in the
past.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Troll dines with Uther.]
UTHER
Is everything to your satisfaction?
TROLL
Er, no. This thing's got to go for a start.
[Troll points at her chair, tries to get up, but her large bum is stuck in it.]
TROLL
It's made for midgets! Too hard, too clean! Not my taste at all.
UTHER
What can I get you instead?
TROLL
Ah. I was walking through the grounds this morning, and I couldn't help but notice
that your stables have just been mucked out. It seems such a waste to throw away
all that lovely dung.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON’S CAVE]
[Kilgharrah laughs heartily at Merlin's news.]
MERLIN
This isn't funny.
KILGHARRAH
Oh, it is, it is. The thought of Uther marrying a troll! Was it a very public
affair?
MERLIN
Public enough.
[Kilgharrah laughs some more.]
MERLIN
Don't laugh! If she can't be stopped, Arthur won't become King. Albion will never
be born.
KILGHARRAH
I'm sorry. You are right, of course.
MERLIN
How can we break the enchantment?
KILGHARRAH
These are not trifling tricks. Troll magic is very powerful.
MERLIN
There has to be a way.
KILGHARRAH
The only way you could break this enchantment is if Uther were to cry tears of true
remorse.
MERLIN
How do we make him do that?
KILGHARRAH
That I can't answer. Uther's heart is cold as stone. He's never been sorry for
anything.
MERLIN
Thanks, I think.
KILGHARRAH
Young warlock, it was some time ago you promised to set me free. The help I give is
not unconditional.
--
[Troll eats, sitting on dung heap, while the council looks on in disgust. She hands
a piece of dung to Uther.]
TROLL
That is for you. Now, tell them about our plan, beloved. Plan.
UTHER
We're introducing further taxes.
SIR LEON
Sire, we can't. The people've given all they can.
UTHER
You told me that before, and yet our coffer is full.
SIR LEON
Your people are already going hungry.
UTHER
Are you questioning my orders?
SIR LEON
It's just, if we take more, they'll starve.
UTHER
Who are you to tell me what's best for my people? You will collect more taxes, or
you will lose your head.
TROLL (cackles)
Lose your head. (cackles) Lose his head.
UTHER
I understand Bayard of Mercia wishes to honour our marriage with a visit.
SIR LEON
Yes, Sire.
TROLL
Oh, good! Now, tell this Bayard we expect gifts. Lots of lovely shiny gold.
SIR LEON
I-- I think at this time it might be wise to...
TROLL
*belch*
SIR LEON
...to respectfully decline his offer of a visit.
UTHER
Whatever for?
SIR LEON
I'm still not sure that we can trust Bayard.
UTHER
Nonsense. He is a friend of Camelot. You will send our reply . It will be an honour
to feast with him.
TROLL
Honour.
--
MERLIN
The dragon said he had to cry tears of true remorse to break the enchantment.
GAIUS
Well, that's not going to be easy. Uther's heart's closed to everyone.
MERLIN
Well, not everyone. Arthur.
GAIUS
Then there's only one course of action we can take. Uther must see his son die.
--
[Arthur goes to bed and blows out the candle.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Arthur! Arthur!
[Arthur bolts out of bed and grabs a sword from his bedside table.]
ARTHUR
Who's there?
[Merlin pops out from under the bed.]
MERLIN
Merlin.
ARTHUR
You're back.
MERLIN
I never left.
ARTHUR
You mean to say...
MERLIN
Yes.
ARTHUR
You've been under there this whole time.
MERLIN
No. Course not. No.
ARTHUR
'cause if you were...
MERLIN
I wasn't, I swear. So your, er, your stepmother is a troll, then.
ARTHUR
If you say "I told you so"...
MERLIN
I wasn't going to. I wouldn't. But it's true that if you had listened to me
earlier, then...Sorry. Gaius and I believe your father's been enchanted, now we
found a way to break the spell, but we need your help.
--
[Arthur, now fully dressed, consults with Merlin and Gaius.]
ARTHUR
So your great plan is to kill me?
MERLIN
No. Well, yes. It...not exactly. It's...Gaius has made a potion that gives the
appearance of death without the actual dying bit. It's fine. There's nothing to
worry about. It'll only bring you to the brink of death.
ARTHUR
Oh, only to the brink.
MERLIN
We haven't got a choice.
GAIUS
We have to make your father cry.
ARTHUR
He doesn't care about me anymore.
GAIUS
Nonsense. That's Catrina's influence. I've known your father for many, many years.
There's never been anyone or anything he's treasured more than you. It's perfectly
safe. A single drop of the antidote will reverse the effects immediately.
ARTHUR
Antidote. What antidote? You didn't say anything about the antidote!
MERLIN
Er...I didn't think it was important.
GAIUS
The potion will lower your heart rate and breathing. For all intents and purposes,
you will be dead.
ARTHUR
And the antidote reverses the effects?
GAIUS
Yes. If it's administered in time.
ARTHUR
If it isn't?
GAIUS
You will be dead.
ARTHUR
You just said it wasn't important!
MERLIN
Erm...yeah, I suppose it is a bit important.
GAIUS
Merlin will have the antidote. Once I have administered the poison....er, the
potion, he'll have half an hour to get it to you.
ARTHUR
Don't be late.
MERLIN
Am I ever?
GAIUS
Are you sure you want to go through with this?
ARTHUR
It's the only way to save Camelot.
[Arthur rolls his eyes and drinks the potion, waits, shrugs, then passes out.]
GAIUS
Time to break the bad news to Uther.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR – NIGHT]
[Merlin peeks around a corner and jogs down the corridor. Jonas drops a vase on
Merlin's head and the antidote bottle falls down the Griffin Staircase and breaks.
Uther goes to Arthur's Chambers to find his "dead" son.]
UTHER
My boy.
[Merlin wakes, finds the broken bottle.]
UTHER
It was my fault. I pushed you away.
[Merlin soaks up the antidote with his neckerchief. Troll finds Uther cradling his
"dead" son.]
UTHER
My son. My son.
TROLL
Come away. There's nothing you can do for him now.
UTHER (cries)
I killed him. I killed my only son!
TROLL
No, no, no, no. Nu meaht þú begalan. Nu meaht þú...
[Troll pulls on his arm and Uther finally turns around, tears streaming down his
face.]
UTHER
Catrina? What kind of trickery is this?
TROLL
How I've suffered these last weeks. Allowing you to touch me! Having to share a bed
with you!
UTHER
Ugh.
TROLL
It's repulsive.
UTHER
I know the feeling.
TROLL
Ooh, I've been looking forward to this.
UTHER
Guards! Seize....it!
[Merlin brings antidote sopped neckerchief to Arthur and squeezes out one drop to
revive him. Arthur tries to attack Troll.]
TROLL
Is that any way to treat your dear old stepmother?
[She throws Arthur then fights off Uther and guards. Jonas goes for Arthur, Arthur
runs him through. Troll goes for Arthur again.]
MERLIN
Fléoge hrægl.
[The spell pulls the rug out from under Troll; she lands on her back. Arthur runs
her through.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM – DAY]
[Uther and Arthur at dinner.]
UTHER
*Ahem* I'd like to thank you for exposing this attack on our state. Once again,
magic was used to strike at the heart of Camelot.
ARTHUR
You mean, your heart. How many nights did you share a bed with a troll?
UTHER
Obviously I was under its spell.
[Arthur sniggers.]
UTHER
I did many things that I...regret.
ARTHUR
Father, I really don't want to know the details. (laughs)
--
[Arthur finds Merlin walking down the corridor.]
ARTHUR
Merlin. I want you to know that I never doubted you. Alright, maybe I did, but it's
your own fault. You've got a suspicious look about you. Shifty. Like you've got
something to hide.
MERLIN
I am an open book.
ARTHUR
I don't believe that for a second. However, I do know that without your help, I'd
still have a troll for a stepmother. Well, thanks. Whoa. What are you doing?
MERLIN
I thought you were going for a hug.
ARTHUR
No.
MERLIN
No.
-----------------------------------------------

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November 30 2010, 23:33
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BBC Merlin: 2x07 The Witchfinder

KILGHARRAH
--
[Merlin collecting firewood with other peasants. Merlin sits down sadly on hillside
overlooking Camelot.]
MERLIN
Hors, beride þá heofonum.
[Turns smoke into a shape of a running horse, fades back to smoke. woman runs to
him and grabs him.]
CATHRYN
Did you see it? The smoke, did you see it?
MERLIN
No, I saw nothing.
CATHRYN
Are you blind? You were right here! It was magic, I tell you. There's sorcery here.
We must tell the King.
[She runs off.]
MERLIN
No! Wait!
--
UTHER
It was sorcery you saw, you're certain of it?
CATHRYN
Yes, Sire.
UTHER
And you swear this before your King?
CATHRYN
I swear it.
ARTHUR
Perhaps your eyes deceived you, a trick of the light.
CATHRYN
The smoke was alive, I tell you. I feared for my life.
UTHER
I thank you for bringing this to my attention. Your loyalty will not go unrewarded.
CATHRYN
Thank you, Sire.
[A knight escorts her out.]
UTHER
It cannot continue.
ARTHUR
I will hunt down those responsible, Father. I promise they will not escape
unpunished.
UTHER
No. Stronger methods are called for. Send for the Witchfinder.
[Courtiers gasp.]
GAIUS
Sire, is it necessary to resort to such measures?
UTHER
The Witchfinder is a trusted ally, Gaius. His help will be invaluable.
GAIUS
Of course.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
GAIUS
How many times, Merlin?! How many times must I drive it into that thick skull of
yours that your magic is a secret to be guarded with your life?! What were you
thinking?!
MERLIN
I...I wasn't thinking.
GAIUS
Well think, boy, think!
MERLIN
It was just a bit of fun.
GAIUS
It was magic and it was seen.
MERLIN
You're right. I'm sorry.
GAIUS
You must hide the book. Anything that can connect you to sorcery in any way.
MERLIN
What? Now?
GAIUS
Yes, now, Merlin. The man that Uther has sent for, I know him.
MERLIN
The Witchfinder?
GAIUS
Hmm, some know him by that name. I know him as Aredian. He is a force to be
reckoned with.
MERLIN
But I'm not a witch. Look. No dress or anything.
[Gaius is not amused.]
MERLIN
I'll get the book.
--
[EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/MORGANA’S CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Aredian shows up in the Square at night with a large horse-drawn cage. Guard
approaches him.]
AREDIAN
I am expected.
[Morgana watches from her window.]
GWEN
Is that him?
MORGANA
Yes.
GWEN
What's that cage for?
MORGANA
It hardly bears thinking about.
[Aredian looks up at her window. Morgana gasps.]
--
[Arthur and Uther enter.]
ARTHUR
So where's he been all this time?
UTHER
In foreign lands. Wherever the pursuit of sorcery takes him.
ARTHUR
He does all this in your name?
UTHER
The Witchfinder serves no one. He's a law unto himself.
AREDIAN
Do you smell it? Do you smell it, Uther?
UTHER
Aredian.
AREDIAN
It's all around us, the foul stench of sorcery. It's infected your great city like
a contagion.
UTHER
I welcome you to Camelot, Aredian. Thank you for making such haste to be here.
AREDIAN
Well, let's hope I'm not too late, hmm? For every hour counts in the war against
sorcery. Unchecked, it spreads like a disease. It seeks out the young and the old,
the weak and the able, the fair and the foul of heart alike. You've grown lazy,
Uther. You've grown idle. Your once noble Camelot is rotten to the core. You stand
on the brink of dark oblivion.
ARTHUR
I am at your disposal, Aredian. The knights will aid you in any way they can.
AREDIAN
You must be Arthur.
ARTHUR
I must be.
AREDIAN
You're a great warrior. The finest this kingdom has ever known.
ARTHUR
Thank you.
AREDIAN
So you won't be offended when I say that I shall have no need of you or your
knights. The subtle craft of sorcery can only be fought by yet subtler means,
methods honed over decades of study, methods known only to myself.
UTHER
We are grateful for your help.
AREDIAN
But gratitude alone can't keep a man alive. You must put food in his belly.
UTHER
I will pay your price, Aredian, whatever it may be.
AREDIAN
I will bid you goodnight.
ARTHUR
Aredian, when do you begin?
AREDIAN
I've already begun.
--
[Aredian peers at Gaius and Merlin from around a corner as they walk down the
street.]
AREDIAN
Gaius, isn't it? I never forget a face.
GAIUS
Nor I, Aredian.
AREDIAN
A physician now, I hear. You always did have a thirst for knowledge.
GAIUS
Scientific knowledge.
AREDIAN
Of course.
GAIUS
My assistant, Merlin.
AREDIAN
Merlin.
GAIUS
May your investigation prove fruitful, Aredian. However, you'll have to excuse us,
we have work to do.
AREDIAN
Naturally. Merlin? I have a few questions I would like you to answer. Please be at
my chambers in an hour.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, AREDIAN'S GUEST CHAMBERS –DAY]
AREDIAN
You are aware, then, that sorcery has been practiced in the vicinity of Camelot?
MERLIN
Yes. I mean...apparently.
AREDIAN
No, no, it cannot be denied. There was a witness.
MERLIN
Yes, I know.
AREDIAN
Do you also know that the woman has named you as a witness?
MERLIN
But...
AREDIAN
I've already spoken to her. She was quite clear on the matter.
MERLIN
But I wasn't a witness.
AREDIAN
Oh, sorry. Perhaps I misheard. Do you deny that you were present at the time of the
incident?
MERLIN
No, I, I was there.
AREDIAN
Well, so you saw it, the horse conjured from the smoke?
MERLIN
I saw the smoke, but...it was only smoke. I saw nothing else.
AREDIAN
Are you saying that she lies?
MERLIN
I didn't say that. I said I didn't see what she saw.
AREDIAN
Hmm. Well, how can that be, I wonder? How can one person see something and the
other not?
MERLIN
I can't explain it.
AREDIAN
I'm at a loss as to explain it myself. Unless it was you who performed the magic.
MERLIN
It wasn't.
AREDIAN
Can you prove that it wasn't?
MERLIN
No.
AREDIAN
Hmm. That'll be all.
[Merlin gets up to leave.]
AREDIAN
For now.
--
[Aredian presents three women before the court.]
AREDIAN
Speak, do not be afraid.
BEATRICE
I...I was drawing water from the well, Sire, when I saw them: faces in the water.
Terrible faces, like people who were drowned, screaming. Screaming.
MERLIN (whisper to Gaius)

I haven't done anything, I promise.
AREDIAN
Tell them what you saw.
ANNIE
A goblin dancing on the coals. it was dancing in the flames, and it spoke, Sire. My
heart near stopped for fear of it.
AREDIAN
As you've heard, My Lord, the incident in the woods was only the beginning, hmm?
ROWENA
There was a sorcerer, Sire, in the square. There were creatures jumping right out
of his mouth.
AREDIAN
And what manner of creature?
ROWENA
Toads, Sire. Great green, slimy things as big as your fist.
AREDIAN
The sorcerer laughs in your face. Even now magic flourishes on the streets of
Camelot.
UTHER
I can scarcely believe it.
AREDIAN
Yet it is the truth, My Lord. Fortunately I've utilised every facet of my craft to
bring this matter to a swift resolution.
UTHER
The sorcerer? You have a suspect?
AREDIAN
Oh, I do, My Lord. I regret to say, they stand among us in this very room. My
methods are infallible, my findings incontestable! The facts point to one person
and one person alone: the boy, Merlin!
ARTHUR
Merlin? You can't be serious.
GAIUS
This is outrageous! You have no evidence!
AREDIAN
The tools of magic cannot be hidden from me. I am certain that a thorough search of
the boy's chamber will deliver us all we need.
UTHER
Merlin?
MERLIN
I have nothing to hide from him.
UTHER
Very well. Guards, restrain the boy. Let the search begin.
--
[Guards smash Gaius's possessions in their search for magical objects.]
GAIUS
Careful, please! That's my life's work!
AREDIAN
Comb every inch. The sorcerer is a master of concealment.
ARTHUR
There's nothing here, Aredian!
AREDIAN
I'll be the judge of that. Over there behind this tapestry. In there, upend that
stool. Be sure to check for hollow legs. In there within those powder jars.
[Leon breaks one and finds a bracelet inside.]
SIR LEON
Here!
AREDIAN
An amulet of enchantment. Were you aware, physician, that your assistant kept
instruments of sorcery?
GAIUS
No.
AREDIAN
Well, our work is done. I must inform the King.
GAIUS
Aredian! I know for certain that that amulet does not belong to Merlin.
AREDIAN
Oh? Well who does it belong to, then?
GAIUS
It belongs to me.
--
[Arthur opens Merlin's cell.]
ARTHUR
You're free to go.
[A guard escorts Merlin out, Merlin passes Gaius being escorted in.]
MERLIN
Gaius? What's going on?
GAIUS
Say nothing, Merlin. Do nothing. Promise me!
--
[Merlin returns to find the place ransacked.]
--
[Uther and Arthur eat dinner with Aredian.]
UTHER
Gaius served me with unfailing dedication. Without his knowledge, his wisdom, I
would not be sitting here today.
AREDIAN
You show great faith in him, Sire. Great faith, indeed, considering he was known to
practice sorcery.
ARTHUR
Gaius? You are mistaken.
UTHER
No, Arthur. He speaks the truth. I'm well aware of his past, but I have every
reason to believe he's turned his back on sorcery.
AREDIAN
Until now.
UTHER
We don't know that. And this amulet you found, it could just be a stupid mistake.
AREDIAN
Or maybe he's fallen back into old habits.
ARTHUR
We must give him the benefit of the doubt, surely?
AREDIAN
Why? Anyway, there's a sure way to establish his guilt.
UTHER
I know your methods are effective, Aredian, but Gaius is an old man. He could not
withstand such treatment.
AREDIAN
It's the only way to rid your mind of doubt.
--
[Aredian throws water on Gaius.]
GAIUS
What time is it?
AREDIAN
Time for you to confess.
GAIUS
The amulet was a relic from the past, a keepsake.
AREDIAN
But such artefacts are banned on pain of death. Surely, you must know this?
GAIUS
I was wrong to have kept it. I'm grievously sorry for it.
AREDIAN
Well that's a good start. It's an excellent start, but not nearly enough, I'm
afraid.
GAIUS
Aredian...
AREDIAN
Guards.
[Guards throw Gaius in his cell, then repeatedly questions him.]
AREDIAN
Was your conscience clear when you practiced magic in the days of the Great Purge?
GAIUS
I have not used magic for many years.
AREDIAN
...that your assistant kept instruments of sorcery?
GAIUS
It belongs to me.
AREDIAN
So if someone else were to practice magic?
GAIUS
No.
AREDIAN
You're an enemy of this kingdom, you're an enemy of your king!
GAIUS
No. My conscience is clear. I'd like a drink of water, please.
AREDIAN
And you shall have one, when you've confessed.
GAIUS
Then I shall die of thirst, Aredian.
[Aredian shrugs.]
--
[Merlin sees Gaius being dragged out of his cell. Merlin goes to the Dragon's
Cave.]
KILGHARRAH
What is wrong, young warlock? You look so pale.
MERLIN
I did a stupid thing. Stupid, stupid thing. And now Gaius is going to pay for it.
KILGHARRAH
Gaius means nothing to me.
MERLIN
But he means a great deal to me!
KILGHARRAH
Very well. Tell me what has happened.
MERLIN
A witch finder has come. He's arrested Gaius for sorcery, but I am the sorcerer.
KILGHARRAH
Yes, I suppose you are.
MERLIN
Well, I'm going to confess. It's the only way to save him.
KILGHARRAH
Then your stupidity continues.
MERLIN
I won't sacrifice a friend to save myself!
KILGHARRAH
Bravely spoken, but Gaius is already doomed. If you confess, the witch finder will
just burn you both.
MERLIN
But it's my fault! Don't you understand?
KILGHARRAH
All too well, young warlock. But understand this: if you were to die, you would
endanger the lives of all those that rely upon you.
MERLIN
Well, there must be something I can do. There must be. Please help me.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin, I see you are distressed by this, but I cannot help you because I do not
know how to.
MERLIN
I can't just stand by and watch Gaius die! I can't!
KILGHARRAH
I am sorry.
[Kilgharrah flies off.]
--
[Aredian interrogates Gaius again.]
AREDIAN
You're a traitor! You're an impostor! Sorcery is your only master.
GAIUS
I serve only my King.
AREDIAN
Ha! In what way have you served him? You've lied to him. You've broken his laws.
You've betrayed his trust.
GAIUS
I've saved his life. I've treated his ward. I've protected his only son.
AREDIAN
You've treated his ward?
GAIUS
I have striven to help all those in need. It is a physician's duty to do so.
AREDIAN
The Lady Morgana?
GAIUS
Among others.
AREDIAN
For what malady does she receive this treatment?
GAIUS
She...she suffers from nightmares.
AREDIAN
I see.
GAIUS
And as I said, I feel it is my duty to attend to the needs...
AREDIAN
Yes, yes. You seem very keen to change the subject, Gaius. Perhaps I should
question her myself.
--
[Gaius sees Morgana being led into Aredian's dungeon chambers.]
AREDIAN
There's no need to be concerned, My Lady. I won't detain you long. There's just a
small detail I wish to clarify. Now, it's true, is it not, that you have received
treatment for nightmares?
[Morgana nods.]
AREDIAN
And it was Gaius, the court physician, who administered these treatments? These
potions?
MORGANA
Yes.
AREDIAN
I'm sorry, could you speak up?
MORGANA
Yes.
AREDIAN
Thank you. Now, you may go.
[Morgana smiles in relief and gets up to leave.]
AREDIAN
You don't happen to know what was in these potions, I suppose?
MORGANA
Oh, no.
AREDIAN
No. No, of course not. You're not a physician, after all. So, for all you know,
these potions could have been magical, your dreams the product of an enchanted
elixir.
MORGANA
Oh, I had these dreams before Gaius started treating me.
AREDIAN
But these dreams, have they got better or worse since Gaius began treating you?
MORGANA
Worse.
AREDIAN
As I thought. Thank you. You've been most helpful.
--
[Aredian pokes Gaius in his cell.]
AREDIAN
Gaius. Are you prepared to confess?
GAIUS
I'd rather die of thirst.
AREDIAN
Good. And die you shall. But not alone, I'm pleased to say. You shall have company.
GAIUS
What?
AREDIAN
Merlin and the Lady Morgana are to join you in the flames.
GAIUS
No. This is a trick.
AREDIAN (shakes head)

Mm-Mmm. You've corrupted them, Gaius, and they must answer to their king. Unless...
GAIUS
Unless what?
--
[Aredian throws Gaius to his knees before the court.]
AREDIAN
Confess! Confess!
GAIUS
I...I am a sorcerer, Sire. I am responsible for conjuring the smoke. I'm guilty of
practicing magic in Camelot, the goblin, the faces in the well, I...I am the
sorcerer who conjured the toad from his mouth.
UTHER
You've betrayed me, Gaius. Betrayed your friends. And above all, you've betrayed
yourself. By the laws of Camelot, I must sentence you to death.
AREDIAN
The sorcerer will be purged of his magic by means of fire! He shall be burnt at the
stake tomorrow at dawn! Bear witness and heed this lesson!
[Guards drag Gaius out of the room. Merlin charges at Aredian.]
MERLIN
You're a liar.
[Arthur gets up and restrains him, dragging him from the room.]
UTHER
Guards!
MERLIN
You're a liar!
ARTHUR (to guards)

I'll deal with this.
--
[Arthur takes Merlin to the Dungeons and lets him go, Merlin takes a swing at him,
but Arthur grabs his arm and twists it behind his back.]
MERLIN
Argh!
ARTHUR
I know you're upset. I know you're angry. It's alright. I'm not throwing you in
jail.
MERLIN
Then what are you doing?
[Arthur lets him go.]
ARTHUR
I'm breaking the law.
[Arthur open's Gaius's cell.]
ARTHUR
I can only give you a few minutes.
MERLIN
They wouldn't let me see you, there was nothing I could do.
GAIUS
I know. I understand.
MERLIN
I can't believe it. I can't believe Uther would do this to you.
GAIUS
He had no choice. Once Aredian had found the amulet...
MERLIN
I didn't even know you had such a thing.
GAIUS
It isn't mine.
MERLIN
Why did you say it was?
GAIUS
I was trying to protect you.
MERLIN
GAIUS
It's alright, Merlin. You don't have to say anything.
MERLIN
Yeah, I do. The amulet isn't mine either.
GAIUS
Then how did it get there?
MERLIN
Aredian.
GAIUS
Aredian?
MERLIN
There's no other explanation.
GAIUS
But why?
MERLIN
It doesn't matter why. All that matters is, if I can prove he planted it, you're
saved.
GAIUS
No. You must let this go.
MERLIN
No, you're falsely accused. I have a chance to prove that. I must take that chance.
GAIUS
No, Merlin. You must not.
MERLIN
I don't understand. Do you want to die?
GAIUS
No. But neither do I want you to die. And die you surely will if you get too close
to Aredian. He will trap you, Merlin. He will manipulate you, and without ever
meaning to, you will incriminate yourself. You must let this go.
MERLIN
I must let you go?
GAIUS
To do otherwise would be an act of suicide.
--
[Merlin watches out the window as the guards build a pyre in the Square.]
--
[Aredian visits Gaius in his cell.]
AREDIAN
Ah, Gaius. Well, I hope you've found some relief now that your ordeal is over.
GAIUS
Your concern is touching, Aredian. Now will you please get out of my sight.
AREDIAN
Ha! Of course. I just thought you'd want to hear the news, that's all.
GAIUS
What news?
AREDIAN
My investigations have begun.
GAIUS
Begun? But you already extracted my confession.
AREDIAN
Indeed. Which just leaves Merlin and the Lady Morgana.
GAIUS
But we struck a bargain.
AREDIAN
Oh, I don't bargain with sorcerer's.
[Aredian chuckles darkly.]
--
[Morgana watches the pyre being built in the Square from her window. Aredian
appears behind her.]
--
[Gwen bursts in.]
GWEN
Merlin?! He won't let go! He won't stop!
MERLIN
What happened?
GWEN
The Witchfinder's questioning Morgana again. I'm worried, Merlin. She's close to
breaking point.
MERLIN
Yeah, that's what he does. He breaks you down and in the end you confess whether
you're guilty or not.
GWEN
What do you mean?
MERLIN
Gaius was set up. Aredian planted that amulet.
GWEN
But why would he do such a thing?
MERLIN
Aredian is paid to catch sorcerer's. Maybe he doesn't care whether someone is
guilty or not. Maybe he gets confessions by lying, by planting evidence, just as
long as he gets a confession, he gets his money.
GWEN
But even if this is true, what can we do without proof?
MERLIN
Get some.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, AREDIAN’S GUEST CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Merlin snoops around.]
MERLIN
Tospringe.
[Merlin’s spell unlocks a cupboard and he finds flower petals. Merlin hears someone
coming and remakes the bed with a spell.]
MERLIN
Dæfte þæt bedd.
[Aredian enters. Aredian notices something is off, but looks in the wrong hiding
spot behind a curtain. Merlin is under the bed.]
--
[Gwen and Merlin flip through books.]
GWEN
This is hopeless!
MERLIN
Keep looking.
GWEN
We don't even know if this flower means anything.
MERLIN
No we don't, but it's all we've got. Here. Belladonna.
GWEN
"For the alleviation of ulcers, allergies, and muscular inflammation..." This is
hopeless, Merlin.
MERLIN
No, wait. Listen, "Under certain conditions, a tincture of the flower can produce
hallucinations."
GWEN
So?
MERLIN (scoff)
Aredian's witnesses. It wasn't magic they were seeing, it was visions.
GWEN
It makes sense, if he's faking the evidence. But how can we prove it?
MERLIN
No, Aredian's too clever to have given the tincture to them directly. The
witnesses, they must've got it from someone else.
GWEN
They could've been getting it from anyone.
MERLIN
Is there anything, anything at all that these people had in common?
GWEN
They were all women?
MERLIN
No, that doesn't tell us anything.
GWEN
Yes, it does. What's the one thing only women would buy? Things to make them look
beautiful.
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN, APOTHECARY – NIGHT]
[Gwen and Merlin run through the Lower Town at night and knock on a door, and older
man steps out.]
THE APOTHECARY
Gwen?
[They step inside.]
GWEN
Do you sell a tincture of Belladonna?
THE APOTHECARY
What's this all about?
GWEN
Please, it's important.
THE APOTHECARY
Well, I, I think I've got some somewhere, but what you'd be wanting with eye drops
in the middle of the night, I really don't want to know.
GWEN
Eye drops.
THE APOTHECARY
Yes. Women use them to make their eyes more beautiful.
MERLIN
Where did you get this?
THE APOTHECARY
Well, my usual suppliers.
MERLIN
Sure you didn't get it from someone else?
THE APOTHECARY
Of course I'm sure. If it's all the same to you, I'd like to get some sleep.
GWEN
It was Aredian who gave you the Belladonna, wasn't it?
THE APOTHECARY
Don't know what you're talking about.
MERLIN
But you know that Gaius is going to be executed tomorrow, don't you?
THE APOTHECARY
That has nothing to do with me.
MERLIN
That has everything to do with you! Aredian's witnesses saw visions . Visions
produced by the Belladonna in these eye drops! If we can prove this, we have a
chance of saving Gaius.
THE APOTHECARY
He forced me to sell it. He, he said he'd kill me if I said anything to anyone.
GWEN
It was him? It was Aredian?
THE APOTHECARY
Yes, it was him.
GWEN
Thank you.
MERLIN
Thank you.
--
[Merlin grabs the tincture and Belladonna petals.]
MERLIN
That's it. We've got everything we need.
GWEN
But is it enough?
MERLIN
We've got a witness as well. Surely that's enough?
GWEN
It's still just our word against Aredian's!
MERLIN
Gwen, we don't have a choice! By dawn tomorrow Gaius will be dead.
GWEN
Merlin, we've only got one chance at this. We've got to give Uther something he
cannot deny. Something not even Aredian can talk his way out of.
MERLIN
I'll be as quick as I can.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, AREDIAN’S GUEST CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Merlin sneaks into Aredian's room and raises a hand to the cupboard.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Hlyste min níehst bebod.
[Merlin approaches Aredian and reaches a hand over Aredian's throat.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Ceolwærc.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS/PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS – DAWN]
[Gaius sees sunlight enter his cell. Gwen sees the sunrise from the Physician's
Chambers.]
GWEN
Come on, Merlin. Come on.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, AREDIAN’S GUEST CHAMBER/DUNGEONS – DAY]
[Aredian gets ready in the morning, trying to clear his throat. He fetches Gaius
from the Dungeons.]
AREDIAN
Good morning, Gaius.
--
[Merlin runs in.]
GWEN
Merlin! Where have you been?
MERLIN
It's done. Everything's in place.
GWEN
But it's too late! Gaius has already left the dungeons!
MERLIN
Then...then we'll have to delay the execution.
GWEN
How?
MERLIN
Arthur. I'll speak to Arthur.
GWEN
No. Leave Arthur to me.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE – DAY]
[Aredian escorts Gaius to the pyre in the square in the horse-drawn cage. Uther
watches Gaius as he's brought out, but leaves before Aredian opens the cage and
drags Gaius to the pyre.]
ARTHUR
Easy there! Show some respect!
GWEN
Sorry. Excuse me. Excuse me. Sorry. I must get through. Sorry. Excuse me. Arthur!
Arthur! Arthur, you've got to stop this.
ARTHUR
I can't, Gwen. You know I can't.
GWEN
Merlin has proof that Gaius is innocent.
ARTHUR
My father's already past sentence. There's nothing I can do.
GWEN
You can do the right thing, Arthur Pendragon! You can show some faith in a loyal
friend, or you can stand by and watch an innocent man die!
ARTHUR
Guinevere...
GWEN
You did it once before to my father; are you really willing to let it happen again?
And you can stop looking at me like that, I know I'm only a servant! I thought you
were a prince, so start behaving like one!
[Aredian lowers the torch to light the pyre.]
ARTHUR
Wait!
--
MERLIN
Sire, the witnesses saw nothing but hallucinations induced by the Belladonna in
these eye drops.
UTHER
And you bought this Belladonna from this man?
[The witnesses all nod.]
UTHER
Where did you get it from? Don't be afraid, no harm will come to you here.
THE APOTHECARY
The Witchfinder. He gave them to me
UTHER
Did he tell you what it was for?
THE APOTHECARY
No. Only that if I did not sell it, he'd have me burnt at the stake.
UTHER
How do you answer to these accusations?
AREDIAN
They're absurd. The boy has clearly concocted these lies in the hope of saving his
master.
MERLIN
Then you won't mind if we search your chamber, will you?
UTHER
Silence! You have no authority here!
ARTHUR
Father...let's settle this once and for all. If what Merlin says is wrong, he must
bear the consequences. But if there is some truth in what he says...
AREDIAN
I have nothing to hide.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, AREDIAN’S GUEST CHAMBER – DAY]
[Aredian, Merlin, Arthur, Uther, and Morgana watch the guards toss the room.]
AREDIAN
You're wasting your time.
ARTHUR
The cupboard over there.
[Dozens of amulets drop out, and a stash of Belladonna tincture is inside.]
AREDIAN
These things don't belong to me! This is a trick! *cough* That boy plots against
me!
[Aredian tries to clear throat and spits out a toad.]
UTHER
Sorcerer!
[Aredian grabs a dagger and the Lady Morgana.]

UTHER
Aredian, think carefully about what you're doing. You will never escape from
Camelot alive.
AREDIAN
I will if you value the life of your ward. Hmm?
MERLIN (whisper)
Forbærnan.
[The handle of the dagger heats up and Aredian drops it, freeing Morgana. Aredian
trips backward over a box and falls out the window.]
--
[Gaius cleans the mess that the guards made. Uther enters.]
UTHER
Gaius, I'm glad I found you here.
GAIUS
As am I, My Lord. It thought I'd never see these chambers again.
UTHER
If anything was damaged in the search, I'll be only too glad to replace it.
GAIUS
You're very kind, My Lord.
UTHER
Aredian. I can still scarcely believe that he was a sorcerer.
GAIUS
Indeed. Is there some reason you wish to see me?
UTHER
Yes. I, er...I wanted to say I'm sorry if you suffered at his hands.
GAIUS
But I did not suffer at his hands, Uther. I suffered at yours. He worked for you,
My Lord. He was merely following your orders.
UTHER
But I was deceived.
GAIUS
No. You were deceived long before Aredian, for you deceived yourself. You see foes
where there are friends, you see sorcerers where there are but servants. I am not
the first to be wrongly accused in your war against magic, and not all have been as
lucky as I.
UTHER
I assure you, Gaius, every measure will be taken to ensure that nothing like this
will happen again.
GAIUS
I hope that is true, for all our sakes. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work to
do.
--
[Gaius serves dinner.]
GAIUS
What I don't understand is how you knew he'd concealed the evidence in his chamber.
MERLIN
Just a hunch, really.
GAIUS
I see. And the toad.
MERLIN
That I, er...ahem, I, er...can't explain.
GAIUS
I can hardly explain it myself. Unless, of course, you put it there.
MERLIN
OK, Gaius, fair enough. I promise I will never save your life again.
GAIUS
Promise?
MERLIN
Absolutely.
[Merlin and Gaius laugh.]
GAIUS
Honestly, Merlin, the toad was a step too far.
MERLIN
You should've seen the look on his face.
[They laugh.]
----------------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:34
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BBC Merlin: 2x08 Sins of the Father
KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. MORGAUSE’S ENCHANTED FORTRESS – DAY]
[Morgause watches Arthur through a magic crystal in her Enchanted Fortress.]
MORGAUSE
Hider eft funde. On þisse ne middangeard. Arthur Pendragon, a great destiny awaits
you. The battle for your soul is about to begin.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES – NIGHT]
UTHER
Arise Sir Vidor, Knight of Camelot. Arise Sir Caradoc, Knight of Camelot.
UTHER
You have been accorded a great honour. But with that honour comes great
responsibility. From this day forth, you are sworn to live by the knights' code.
You have pledged to conduct yourselves with nobility, honour, and respect. Your
word is your sacred bond. You will find no one who better embodies these values
than my son, Arthur. Follow his example, and you will prove yourselves worthy of
your title.
[The entire court turns to the door at the sound of sword fighting outside. A
knight enters. The newly made knights of Camelot draw their swords as the knight
approaches. Arthur steps forward and the knight drops gauntlet in front of Arthur,
who picks it up.]
ARTHUR
I accept your challenge. If I'm to face you in combat, do me the courtesy of
revealing your identity.
[The knight removes the helmet to reveal a wealth of long blonde tresses.]
MORGAUSE
My name is Morgause.
--
[Uther and Arthur consult Geoffrey of Monmouth.]
GEOFFREY
I've searched the records going back more than 300 years. I could find nothing to
say a woman cannot issue a challenge.
UTHER
There must be some way to put a stop to this.
GEOFFREY
According to the Knight's Rules, it appears her challenge is perfectly valid.
ARTHUR
It seems there's nothing we can do.
UTHER
We don't know anything about this woman! I will not let you face her in combat!
ARTHUR
I accepted the challenge. If I refuse to fight, it'll be seen as an act of
cowardice.
UTHER
She killed five guards. You should not underestimate her.
ARTHUR I cannot demand that my knights uphold the code, then be seen to break it
myself. I must face her tomorrow.
--
[Morgana watches Morgause practicing in the Square.]
GWEN
Who is she? Why would she challenge Arthur? It seems no one's ever heard of her.
MORGANA
I feel as if I've met her somewhere before.
GWEN
Really? Where could you know her from?
MORGANA
I don't know.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
MERLIN
Do you know why she challenged you?
ARTHUR
I'm the King's son. Perhaps she believed she will prove herself.
MERLIN
Yeah, but you don't want to fight her, do you?
ARTHUR
I have no choice. If I refuse to fight her, I'm a coward. If I kill her, what am I
then? What is it?
MERLIN
You've never faced a woman in combat. What if you hesitate? She could use that to
her advantage.
ARTHUR
You think she's going to defeat me.
MERLIN
I'm just saying. You need to b .cautious, because it sounds like she's pretty handy
with a sword.
ARTHUR
Since when do you know anything about combat? I need you to take a message to
Morgause for me. If I'm seen to do it, it could be viewed as cowardice. You must
persuade her to withdraw her challenge.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGAUSE'S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Merlin enters. Morgause corners him with a sword.]
MORGAUSE
What do you want?
MERLIN
I have a message from Prince Arthur. He wants you to withdraw your challenge.
Arthur has no desire to fight you. Now, if you withdraw, he will grant you safe
passage through the kingdom. Leave now, while you still can.
MORGAUSE
If Arthur has no desire to fight me, perhaps he should withdraw.
MERLIN
No. He'll, he'll never do that. It's not in him to withdraw.
MORGAUSE
Then we have that in common.
MERLIN
If you fight him, he will have to treat you as he does any other opponent. It won't
matter that you're a woman.
MORGAUSE
I do not ask for special treatment.
MERLIN
Arthur has no quarrel with you. Why would you challenge him?
MORGAUSE
My reasons are not your concern.
MERLIN
Don't put Arthur in a position where he's forced to kill you.
MORGAUSE
Who's to say Arthur's life won't rest in my hands?
--
[Uther enters. Merlin prepares Arthur for the fight.]
MERLIN
You gave her a chance to withdraw. Whatever happens, you are not to blame.
--
[Arthur enters. Morgause is waiting.]
UTHER
The fight is by the Knights' Rules. And to the death.
ARTHUR
I'm offering you a final chance to withdraw. I suggest you take it. Then you leave
me no choice.
[They fight. Arthur catches Morgause in the arm, but allows her to pick up her
sword. She disarms him and presses her sword to his chest.]
MORGAUSE
Make me a promise and I will spare your life.
ARTHUR
What is it you ask?
MORGAUSE
Come to me three days hence and accept the challenge I set to you.
ARTHUR
And the nature of this challenge?
MORGAUSE
That is for me to decide. Do I have your word that you will accept, no matter what?
ARTHUR
You have my word.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGAUSE’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Gaius tends to Morgause's wounded arm.]
GAIUS
You're fortunate the wound isn't too deep. You seems familiar. Have you visited
Camelot in the past?
MORGAUSE
I was here many years ago. I was just a baby at the time. I doubt you'd remember
me. I'm grateful for your help.
--
[Arthur is slumped over the table.]
MERLIN
It could've been worse.
ARTHUR
How, exactly, could it have been worse?
MERLIN
You could be dead.
ARTHUR
At least I wouldn't have to face everyone. I've never felt so humiliated in my
entire life. I was defeated by a girl.
MERLIN
It's actually quite funny when you think about it. Or not.
ARTHUR
No. It's like you said. I was hindered because I was fighting a woman. I was
worried I was going to hurt her. That's why she won.
MERLIN
You didn't look hindered. I'll stop talking now.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGAUSE’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Morgana knocks on the door and enters.]
MORGANA
I didn't mean to intrude. I wanted to introduce myself. I'm the Lady Morgana.
MORGAUSE
I know who you are.
MORGANA
How is your arm? You were wounded.
MORGAUSE
It'll heal soon enough. You look tired.
MORGANA
I haven't been sleeping.
MORGAUSE
I know for myself how troubling that can be.
MORGANA
Could it be that we've met somewhere before?
MORGAUSE (shakes head)

I'm glad we have met now.
MORGANA
That's a beautiful bracelet.
MORGAUSE
It was a gift. From my mother. Please, I would like you to have it. It's a healing
bracelet. It will help you sleep.
MORGANA
I couldn't. You must be tired. I will leave you to rest.
MORGAUSE
I hope you will remember me fondly.
--
[Morgana stirs restlessly in her sleep. Morgause watches her and hold up bracelet.]
MORGAUSE
Gefultuma híe þæt heo onslæpe.
[Morgause places bracelet at the end of Morgana's bed. Morgana stops twitching.]
--
[Morgause prepares her horse for travel. Arthur leads his horse out of the
drawbridge gate and stops.]
ARTHUR
Congratulations on your victory. You're a skilful swordsman. Woman.
Swords...swordswoman.
[Morgause walks over to his horse.]
MORGAUSE
You have a beautiful horse.
[Arthur looks at his horse and Morgause's eyes glow.]
MORGAUSE
I shall expect to see you three days hence.
ARTHUR
How will I find you?
MORGAUSE
When the time comes, you will know your way.
ARTHUR
If I don't show up it might be because I don't know where I'm going.
MORGAUSE
The path you must follow will become clear to you.
[She mounts her horse.]
MORGAUSE
I should thank you for allowing me to retrieve my sword.
ARTHUR
I'm starting to wish I hadn't.
MORGAUSE
You showed yourself to be a man of honour. You inherited that trait from your
mother.
ARTHUR
You knew my mother?
MORGAUSE
I knew her very well.
ARTHUR
Wait!
--
[Gwen tries to shake Morgana awake.]
GWEN
Morgana. Morgana. Morgana.
MORGANA
I was fast asleep.
GWEN
It's nearly midday.
MORGANA
I can't remember the last time I slept so well.
GWEN
I'll fetch you some clothes.
[Morgana finds the magic bracelet.]
--
UTHER
And what is to be the nature of this challenge?
ARTHUR
She didn't say. But I gave her my word that I would accept it no matter what
UTHER
You should never have made such a promise. You have no idea what she might ask of
you.
ARTHUR
She had her sword to my chest. I had no choice. Morgause said that she knew my
mother.
UTHER
She told you this? Obviously she's lying. She's playing on your affections for your
mother to lure you into a trap.
ARTHUR
That makes no sense. She spared my life.
UTHER
It confirms my suspicions. I believe Morgause is an enchantress. How else could she
have defeated you?
ARTHUR
I don't believe she was using magic.
UTHER
And you would know for certain if she were? Under no circumstances will you go to
meet her, or accept this challenge.
ARTHUR
I gave her my word!
UTHER
I don't care what was said to her. You will remain in Camelot.
ARTHUR
I want to hear what she knows about my mother.
UTHER
She knows nothing. She is lying. You will not go to her. I forbid it.
ARTHUR
So I am to break my word?
UTHER
Escort my son to his chambers. Under no circumstances will he be allowed to leave.
ARTHUR
You're confining me to my chambers?
UTHER
I am protecting you from your own foolishness!
--
[Merlin walks to Arthur's Chambers, confused to see the guards before he enters.]
MERLIN
Why are the guards outside the door?
ARTHUR
My father has confined me to my chambers and has forbidden me from accepting
Morgause's challenge.
MERLIN
Well, maybe he's got a point. You, you don't know what she might've asked you to
do.
ARTHUR
I gave her my word.
MERLIN
So, I take it we're going anyway.
ARTHUR
You're smarter than you look. Gather some supplies, we leave tonight. Oh, and
Merlin ...find a way to get me out of here.
--
GAIUS
How's Arthur?
MERLIN
You mean after being defeated by a girl in front of the whole of Camelot? I've seen
him happier.
GAIUS
I think you're enjoying this, Merlin.
MERLIN
Maybe a little.
[Merlin sees rope and pretends to grind something for Gaius while sneaking the rope
under his clothes.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Ic þé geháta, searubunden.
--
[Merlin enters. Arthur is now dressed in chainmail.]
MERLIN
I got the supplies.
ARTHUR
Merlin, is it my imagination, or are you getting fat?
[Merlin lifts his shirt to reveal the rope wrapped around his torso.]
--
[Merlin prepares to anchor Arthur as he climbs out the window.]
ARTHUR
Are you sure you're strong enough to hold me?
MERLIN
Yeah. I'm stronger than I look.
[Arthur slides halfway down.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing? Lower the rope!
MERLIN
There is no more rope! I don't know if I can hold on much longer!
ARTHUR
Merlin, do not let go of the ro...
[The rope slips and Arthur falls face first into a pile of dung.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur ride through the woods.]
MERLIN
Which way? Do you actually know where we're going?
ARTHUR
It's this way. Come on. What is wrong with this horse? It's even dumber than you,
Merlin!
MERLIN
Where are you going? I thought you said it was left?
ARTHUR
It's not me! It's the horse! Morgause told me. When the time comes, you'll know
your way.
MERLIN
So the horse knows where we're going. Great.
--
GAIUS
Come on, Merlin. Merlin?
[Merlin's Chamber is empty.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Gaius and Uther march to Arthur's Chambers. Uther sees the open window.]
UTHER
You've been guarding an empty room. Send out a search party! Find Arthur and bring
him back to Camelot! Do you have any idea what Morgause might want with Arthur?
GAIUS
I'm afraid I don't.
--
[Merlin and Arthur ride through the woods.]
MERLIN
What if Morgause challenges you to do something you don't want to do?
ARTHUR
I'm not expecting it to be easy, Merlin. That's why it's called a challenge.
MERLIN
So you'd do anything she asks of you?
ARTHUR
I gave her my word. It's a question of honour.
MERLIN
What if she challenges you to do something even less honourable than breaking your
word?
ARTHUR
Will you stop rabbitting on? We're in Odin's territory. We could be attacked at any
second.
MERLIN
I just think it's strange to agree to do something when you don't know what it is.
ARTHUR
One more word out of you, Merlin, and you'll be taking the challenge in my place.
[They're attacked by Odin's men.]
MERLIN
Gar onbærne.
[Arthur finishes off other attackers.]
ARTHUR
Don't worry, Merlin. I'll deal with this, you lie there, make yourself comfortable.
MERLIN
Maybe we should turn back. The woods could be full of Odin's men.
ARTHUR
You can go back if you want to, I won't stop you.
MERLIN
You don't know anything about Morgause! You don't know what she's gonna ask you to
do! We don't even know where we're going, we're following a horse!
ARTHUR
Morgause said she knew my mother.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS – DAY]
MORGANA
Gaius, come in.
GAIUS
Good day, my dear. I brought you your sleeping draught.
MORGANA
I could've saved you the trouble. I had the best night's sleep I can remember.
GAIUS
No nightmares?
MORGANA
I can't tell you what a relief it is. I only wish I could thank Morgause for her
gift.
GAIUS
Morgause gave you that bracelet?
MORGANA
She told me it would help me sleep. She spoke the truth. Gaius, what is it?
GAIUS
Nothing. I'm merely surprised that it's so effective.
MORGANA
I feel as if I somehow know Morgause.
GAIUS
I don't see how. But I'm pleased you're feeling better.
--
[Merlin and Arthur sit at a campfire.]
MERLIN
What was your mother like?
ARTHUR
I never knew her. She died before I opened my eyes.
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
ARTHUR
I barely know anything about her.
MERLIN
Can't you ask your father?
ARTHUR
He refuses to talk about her. It must be too painful for him. Sometimes it's as if
she never even existed. I still have a sense of her. Almost as though she's part of
me.
MERLIN
That's the same with my father. I never knew him. And my mother's barely spoken of
him. I've got this...vague memory. It's probably just my imagination.
ARTHUR
I'd do anything for even the vaguest memory.
MERLIN
Is that why you're so determined to find Morgause? To see what she knows about your
mother?
ARTHUR
Is that so wrong?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
I should get some rest.
--
[Gaius enters. Uther is eating.]
GAIUS
My Lord, I must speak with you. It concerns Morgause.
UTHER
What is it?
GAIUS
While I was treating her wound, I noticed that she wore a bracelet.
UTHER
Go on.
GAIUS
And it bore the mark of one of the Great Houses, the Great House of Gorlois. There
is only one person, other than Morgana, who would have cause to wear such a
bracelet. That is, a half sister.
UTHER
I was led to believe that the child had died.
GAIUS
The child lived, My Lord. She was smuggled out of Camelot shortly after her birth.
UTHER
How do you know this?
GAIUS
It was I who entrusted the child to the High Priestesses of the Old Religion.
UTHER
You should've told me, Gaius.
GAIUS
I had sworn a solemn oath, My Lord. I'm only breaking it now because I fear what
Morgause might do.
UTHER
Does Morgana know?
GAIUS
I don't believe so.
UTHER
Morgana must never find out she has a half sister. I will not have her loyalties
divided.
GAIUS
Of course. The High Priestesses will have trained Morgause from birth. Her magic
will be powerful.
UTHER
Then we must hope the search party finds Arthur before he reaches her.
--
[EXT. LAKE – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur come to a lake with a waterfall.]
MERLIN
It seems your horse has brought us to a dead end.
[Arthur’s horse walks forward to the water.]
ARTHUR
Now where's he going?
MERLIN
I think you're going to get wet.
ARTHUR
You don't say.
MERLIN
Arthur?
[Merlin nudges his horse to follow them into the lake.]
--
[EXT. MORGAUSE’S ENCHANTED FORTRESS – DAY]
[Merlin enters a tunnel behind the waterfall and emerges from a wood to find Arthur
staring up at a the Enchanted Castle.]
MERLIN
Where are we?
ARTHUR
I don't know.
MERLIN
If we weren't sure Morgause was a sorcerer before, we can be certain of it now.
ARTHUR
That must've been how she defeated me. She was using magic.
MERLIN
Hmm, it didn't look like she was.
ARTHUR
And what would you know about magic, Merlin?
MERLIN
Nothing.
[They dismount and enter into a chamber empty except for a block of wood with an
axe.]
ARTHUR
Now what?
MERLIN
Maybe we should ask the horse. Well, there's no one here.
MORGAUSE
You kept your promise.
ARTHUR
What is the nature of the challenge you wish to set me?
MORGAUSE
Place your head on the block.
[Morgause picks up the axe.]
MORGAUSE
You gave me your word that you would do anything I asked.
MERLIN
Arthur, don't.
[Arthur kneels to place his head on the block.]
MERLIN
What are you doing? I won't let you do this!
ARTHUR
Stay out of this, Merlin!
[Morgause begins to swing the axe, then puts it down.]
MORGAUSE
You have shown that you are truly a man of your word, Arthur Pendragon, and for
that I will grant you one wish. Tell me what it is that your heart most desires.
ARTHUR
You said you knew my mother. Tell me all that you know about her.
MORGAUSE
Perhaps you would like to see her.
ARTHUR
I want that more than anything.
MORGAUSE
As you wish.
--
[Sir Leon and other knights stand before Uther.]
SIR LEON
The search party were unable to pick up a trail. There is no sign of Prince Arthur
anywhere.
UTHER
Redouble your efforts. Send riders to the outlying villages. I want my son found!
SIR LEON
Yes, My Lord.
[The knights leave.]
UTHER
It chills me to think what Morgause has planned for Arthur.
GAIUS
Had she chosen to , she already could have killed him. I believe she has some other
purpose in mind.
UTHER
Morgause told Arthur that she knew his mother.
GAIUS
She knew Ygraine?
UTHER
I don't know! Perhaps it's a lie. She knew that it would tempt Arthur to go to her.
GAIUS
You think that Morgause knows the true circumstances to Arthur's birth?
UTHER
I fear that more than anything.
--
[INT. MORGAUSE’S ENCHANTED FORTRESS – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur wait for Morgause to prepare her spell.]
MERLIN
Are you sure you want to do this?
ARTHUR
If you were granted the same opportunity, would you not want to meet your father?
MERLIN
Uther won't forgive you if he finds out you've collaborated with a sorcerer.
ARTHUR
What if my father's attitude to magic is wrong?
MERLIN
You really think that?
ARTHUR
Perhaps it's not as simple as he would have us believe. Morgause is a sorcerer, she
has caused us no harm. Surely not everyone who practices magic can be evil.
MERLIN
We don't actually know why she's doing this.
MORGAUSE
It is time. Close your eyes. Arásae mid min miclan mihte þín suna to helpe. Hider
eft funde on þisse ne middangeard þín suna w'æs.
YGRAINE
Arthur.
[Arthur opens his eyes.]
YGRAINE
Arthur.
ARTHUR
Mother.
YGRAINE
My son.
[Ygraine goes to Arthur and hugs him.]
YGRAINE
When I last held you, you were a tiny baby. I remember your eyes. You were staring
up at me. Those few seconds I held you were the most precious of my life.
ARTHUR
I'm so sorry.
YGRAINE
You have nothing to be sorry for.
ARTHUR
It was my birth that caused you to die.
YGRAINE
No, you are not to blame.
ARTHUR
I cannot bear the thought that you died because of me.
YGRAINE
Do not think that. It is your father who should carry the guilt for what happened.
ARTHUR
What do you mean?
YGRAINE
It is not important. What matters is that you lived.
ARTHUR
Why should my father feel guilty?
YGRAINE
It is better left in the past.
ARTHUR
You cannot leave me with more questions. Please.
YGRAINE
Your father, he was desperate for an heir. Without a son, the Pendragon dynasty
would come to an end. But I could not conceive.
ARTHUR
But how was I born? Tell me.
YGRAINE
Your father betrayed me. He went to the sorceress Nimueh and asked for her help in
conceiving a child. You were born of magic.
ARTHUR
That's not true.
YGRAINE
I'm sorry, Arthur. Your father has deceived you as he deceived me. To create a
life, a life must be taken. Your father knew that.
ARTHUR
No.
YGRAINE
He sacrificed my life so the Pendragon dynasty could continue. It makes you no less
my son, nor me any less proud of you. Now I see you, I would have given my life
willingly. Do not let this knowledge change you.
[Arthur looks back up and Ygraine is gone.]
ARTHUR
No! Bring her back!
MORGAUSE
I cannot. Once the doorway is closed, it is closed forever. I am truly sorry that
your learnt of your mother's fate in this way. I can only imagine how it must feel
to discover your father is responsible for her death. It is an unforgivable
betrayal.
[Morgause leaves.]
MERLIN
Are you alright? Arthur?
ARTHUR
Fetch the horses. We're returning to Camelot.
--
[Merlin and Arthur return to Camelot. Arthur dismounts in the square and grabs the
sword from his horse before walking up the steps into the castle.]
MERLIN
[Arthur keeps walking. Gaius comes up to Merlin.]
GAIUS
Merlin. I'm relieved to see you're safe. Where's Arthur?
[Merlin walks around Gaius to face the wall of the Courtyard Corridor.]
MERLIN
Arthur was born of magic. Wasn't he? Uther used magic.
GAIUS
Merlin...
MERLIN
All those people he's executed...he's as guilty as they are. He sacrificed Arthur's
mother! He as good as murdered her! People should know the truth about what he's
done. How could you not tell me?
GAIUS
I feared what Arthur would do if he ever found out.
MERLIN
Oh, he's found out now.
[Merlin runs up the steps into the palace.]
--
[Uther's looks over some papers with Sir Leon when Arthur enters.]
UTHER
Arthur. Where have you been? I have had search parties out looking for you. Arthur?
ARTHUR
I know...what you did to my mother.
UTHER
Leave us. No one is to enter.
[Sir Leon exits and closes the doors.]
UTHER
ARTHUR
You were so desperate for an heir, you were prepared to use magic.
UTHER
Did Morgause tell you this? She's lying.
ARTHUR
My mother is dead because of your selfishness and arrogance. Her blood is on your
hands.
UTHER
No. That's not true. But Morgause would have you believe that.
ARTHUR This is what fuels your hatred for those who practice magic. Rather than
blame yourself for what you did, you blame them.
UTHER
You would believe a sorcerer's lies over the word of your own father? I can only
think that Morgause has enchanted you.
ARTHUR
You speak of hunted her kind like animals! How many hundreds have you condemned to
death to ease your guilt?
UTHER
Those who practice magic will stop at nothing to destroy us! I have only done what
is necessary to protect this kingdom!
ARTHUR
You speak of honour and nobility! You're nothing but a hypocrite and a liar!
UTHER
I am your king, and your father. You will show me some respect!
[Arthur throws his gauntlet at Uther's feet.]
UTHER
Have you lost your mind?
ARTHUR
Pick it up.
UTHER
Arthur, I implore you, think about what you're doing.
ARTHUR
Pick it up.
UTHER
I will not fight you.
ARTHUR
If you choose not to defend yourself, I will strike you down where you stand.
UTHER
You are my son. You will not strike an unarmed man.
ARTHUR
I no longer think of myself as your son.
UTHER
Then strike me down.
[Arthur strikes, but Uther parries.]
UTHER
I don't want to fight you.
[They fight.]
UTHER
Arthur, stop this!
[Merlin runs up the Wrought Iron Stairway. Pendragons fight. Merlin runs through
the Criss-cross Corridor. Pendragons fight. Merlin reaches the door to the Council
Chamber of Doom, but Leon blocks him.]
SIR LEON
The King has forbidden anyone to enter!
MERLIN
They're going to kill each other!
[The Pendragons fight. Arthur disarms Uther and is about to strike, but Merlin
opens the doors.]
MERLIN
Arthur! Don't! I know you don't want to do this!
ARTHUR
My mother is dead because of him!
MERLIN
Killing your father won't bring her back. You've lost one parent. Do you really
want to lose another?
UTHER
Listen to him, Arthur.
MERLIN
Arthur, please, put the sword down.
ARTHUR
You heard what my mother said! After everything he has done, do you believe he
deserves to live?! He executes those who use magic, and yet he has used it himself!
You have caused so much suffering and pain! I will put an end to that!
[Gaius enters.]
MERLIN
Morgause is lying! She's an enchantress. She tricked you. That was not your mother
you saw. That was an illusion. Everything...everything your mother said to
you...those were Morgause's words.
ARTHUR
You don't know that!
MERLIN
This has been her plan all along! To turn you against your father. And if you kill
him, the kingdom will be destroyed! This is what she wants!
UTHER
Listen to him, he's speaking the truth.
ARTHUR
Swear to me it isn't true! You are not responsible for my mother's death! Give me
your word!
UTHER
I swear on my life, I loved your mother. There isn't a day passes that I don't wish
that she were still alive. I could never have done anything to hurt her.
[Arthur drops his sword and falls to his knee, slumping against his father's
chair.]
UTHER
My son, you mean more to me than...than anything.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
UTHER
You are not to blame.
--
[Arthur stares out the window. Merlin enters.]
ARTHUR
I am indebted to you, Merlin. I had become...confused. It is once again clear to me
that those who practice magic are evil and dangerous. And that is thanks to you.
MERLIN
Glad I could help.
--
[Merlin enters. Uther is waiting.]
MERLIN
My Lord.
UTHER
I wanted to thank you in person for your actions yesterday. You are a loyal servant
to Arthur. I am most grateful.
MERLIN
I was just doing my duty.
UTHER
You've proven yourself to be a trusted ally in the fight against magic.
MERLIN
Me?
UTHER
Those who practice magic will seek to exploit Arthur's inexperience. They will
attempt to corrupt him. We must be extra vigilant.
MERLIN
I will keep my eyes peeled.
UTHER
I know you will.
UTHER
If you ever speak of what happened between myself and Arthur to another living
soul, I will have you hanged.
MERLIN
Right, of course. Yes, My Lord.
[Uther exits. Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Was that Uther I saw just leaving?
MERLIN
Yeah. He just popped in to say hello.
GAIUS
Merlin, what did he want?
MERLIN
He wanted to thank me for being a trusted ally in the fight against magic.
GAIUS
How you've managed to keep that head on your shoulders is a mystery beyond our
greatest minds. Uther should be grateful. Your life would've been easier and safer
if you'd let him die. You must have been tempted.
MERLIN
Maybe for a moment. But Arthur wouldn't have been able to forgive himself if he'd
gone through with it. It would have destroyed him.
GAIUS
I'm proud of you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Arthur's thanking me, Uther's grateful, you're proud. I've never been this popular.
GAIUS
I'm almost certain it won't last.
MERLIN
Just let me enjoy the moment.
--
[INT. MORGAUSE’S ENCHANTED FORTRESS – NIGHT]
[Morgause crystal gazes.]
MORGAUSE
ætíe mé þá þé ic séce.
[Morgause sees Arthur and Uther sitting down laughing with one another. Cue angry!
Morgause.]
----------------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:35
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BBC Merlin: 2x09 The Lady of the Lake
KILGHARRAH
--
[A bounty hunter arrives in Camelot with a druid girl locked in a horse-drawn cage.
He leaves her outside in the thunderstorm while he goes to the tavern. Gaius is
making a house call with Merlin in the lower town.]
GAIUS
If he's not better in the morning, let me know.
[Merlin and Gaius pass the girl in the cage on their way back to the castle.]
MERLIN
Gaius.
GAIUS
She's fallen prey to a bounty hunter.
MERLIN
She's only a girl.
GAIUS
She'll still fetch a good price, though.
MERLIN
Someone's going to pay for her?
GAIUS
Uther offers a handsome reward for anyone with magic.
MERLIN
There must be something we can do.
GAIUS
Merlin, bounty hunters are dangerous men. They're not to be meddled with. You of
all people should understand that.
--
[INT/EXT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS/LOWER TOWN – NIGHT]
[Merlin sneaks out while Gaius sleeps. He peeks in the tavern to make sure the
bounty hunter is occupied before going to the caged girl.]
MERLIN
Don't worry, I'm not going to hurt you. Tospringe.
[The cage door breaks open. Merlin steps inside and puts his hand over her
manacles.]
MERLIN
Unspene þás mægþ!
[The manacles break off. he takes her hand and they hide behind the cart just as
the bounty hunter exits.]
MERLIN
Ic bebíede þis giestærn tácen fielan.
[The tavern sign breaks off and hits the bounty hunter. Merlin runs with girl.]
MERLIN
Bryne.
[Merlin lights a torch and takes girl down some tunnels under the castle.]
MERLIN
They won't find you here.
[Merlin takes off his jacket.]
MERLIN
Here.
[She shrinks back.]
MERLIN
Sorry. Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you. I just thought you might be cold.
FREYA
Why did you do that?
MERLIN
What?
FREYA
Help me.
MERLIN
Well, I saw you and...it could've been me in that cage. You'll be safe down here.
I'll come back in the morning with some food and candles. Will you be alright till
then?
[Freya nods.]
MERLIN
I'm Merlin, by the way.
FREYA
I'm Freya.
MERLIN
Freya.
[Merlin hands her his jacket and she accepts it.]
MERLIN
I'll see you in the morning, Freya.
FREYA
Thank you.
[Merlin nods.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin looks for food the next morning, finding only stale bread and rotten fruit.
Merlin goes to Arthur's Chambers and exchanges these for fine meat, bread, and
cheese. Merlin opens the curtains.]
MERLIN
Breakfast!
ARTHUR
Oi! Where's the meat? Cheese?
MERLIN
That's the new breakfast menu.
ARTHUR
This isn't enough.
MERLIN
We, we've got to keep you in shape.
ARTHUR
I'm fighting fit!
MERLIN
But we want to keep you that way.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Arthur throws the food at him.]
ARTHUR
Is there somewhere you have to be?
MERLIN
Of course not!
ARTHUR
Good. 'Cause I've got some chores for you to do.
--
[Merlin prepares Arthur's bath.]
ARTHUR
Make sure it's hot enough!
MERLIN
Onhǽte þá wæter.
ARTHUR
Is it ready?
MERLIN
Yep. Freshly heated.
ARTHUR
Ah! You bumpkin! It's boiling!
MERLIN
Boiling?
ARTHUR
You are half asleep today!
MERLIN
I'm sorry, Sire. Erm, I'll get you some cold.
ARTHUR
No, I'll get you some.
[Arthur splashes Merlin with a water pitcher.]
ARTHUR
That woken you up?
MERLIN
Raring to go, Sire.
--
[The bounty hunter enters with some knights .]
UTHER
Ah, Halig. You've come bearing gifts?
HALIG
Yes, Sire. A druid girl. But she escaped last night here in Camelot.
UTHER
Well, don't worry. We'll soon find her. Have some guards help with the search.
[A knight bows and exits.]
HALIG
You need to warn them, Sire. The girl is dangerous. The informer told me she was
cursed.
UTHER
How so?
HALIG
He didn't know, but he said even the druids were frightened of her. They cast her
out of their camp.
GAIUS
It's against all the druids believe to reject those in need of care.
UTHER
Why would they do such a thing?
GAIUS
I dread to think.
UTHER
Set up sentries on all the gates.
HALIG
We should search the lower town, Sire. Someone may be harbouring her.
GAIUS
You think she had help?
HALIG
I saw two figures running away.
UTHER
Give Halig all the help he needs. I want this girl and her accomplice found.
--
[Peasants queue up to enter the palace grounds. Halig inspects each one.]
GUARD
Get in line!
[Halig shakes his head that it's not the person he saw.]
GUARD
Move along.
[Halig nods at the next woman. She's taken by guards. Halig shakes his head at
Merlin, but then looks at him as Merlin passes by.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, TUNNELS – DAY]
[Merlin enters tunnels with a torch and a care package. Freya's sleeping.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Freya?
[Merlin touches her shoulder. She wakes and shrinks from him.]
Merlin (whisper
It's all right. It's okay. It's me. It's Merlin. And look...
[Merlin shows her what he brought. Freya stuffs the food in her mouth. Merlin sets
up the candles.]
FREYA
It's good.
MERLIN
Believe me, it's fit for a prince.
[Merlin lights candles with magic. He sees a tattoo on her arm.]
MERLIN
Is that a druid symbol?
[Freya nods.]
MERLIN
Were you born a druid?
FREYA
Why are you asking me all these questions?
MERLIN
Sorry, I didn't mean to.
FREYA
I'm sorry.
MERLIN
I understand.
FREYA
You could never understand.
MERLIN
I know what it's like to keep secrets.
FREYA
Does anyone know you have magic?
MERLIN
Only you. And one other person. He knows, but I'm not sure he understands.
FREYA
I wish I was like everyone else, but...
MERLIN
You always know, deep down, you're not?
FREYA
Because I'm cursed.
MERLIN
Freya, don't say that. Magic doesn't have to be a curse. It can be a gift. Look.
Hoppaþ nu swicae swá lig flíehen.
[Merlin floats the candles.]
FREYA
Beautiful.
MERLIN
I have to go. Erm, someone might notice I'm missing. But I- I'll come back, and
I'll bring you some more food. I promise.
--
[Merlin enters.]
GAIUS
Do you know anything about the girl?
MERLIN
What girl?
GAIUS
The girl from the cage. She escaped last night.
MERLIN
Good. I'm pleased.
GAIUS
They're out hunting for her.
MERLIN
Why can't they just let her be?
GAIUS
Did you help her escape?
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
Merlin?
MERLIN
You told me not to get involved.
GAIUS
You promise me you'd nothing to do with this?
MERLIN
Yes!
GAIUS
Good. Because when Halig finds out who helped her, I wouldn't want to be in their
shoes.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS]
[Arthur eats dinner.]
MERLIN
Would you like some water with that?
ARTHUR
Mmm.
[Merlin pours the water out of the pitcher and magically knocks Arthur's knife off
of the table. When Arthur bends down to pick it up, Merlin magically shoots a
drumstick into the water pitcher.]
ARTHUR
I had two drumsticks.
MERLIN
No you didn't.
ARTHUR
Merlin, I had two drumsticks.
MERLIN
Maybe it fell on the floor.
[Arthur leans over to check and Merlin magically grabs the sausages.]
ARTHUR
I had sausages!
MERLIN
You sure? They must've fallen under the table.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
What? You can search me, I haven't taken them.
ARTHUR
Well, where have they gone?
MERLIN
Strange.
ARTHUR
Very.
MERLIN
Sure you didn't eat them?
ARTHUR
I haven't had the chance!
--
[EXT/INT. LOWER TOWN/DUNGEONS]
[Merlin rushes through the lower town with the pitcher full of meat and runs into
Halig. Guards drag Merlin into a dungeon cell. Halig overturns pitcher and meat
drops out.]
MERLIN
It's just the Prince's leftovers.
HALIG
Does he know you steal his food?
MERLIN
Not exactly.
HALIG
Where were you taking it?
MERLIN
Home. For my dinner.
HALIG
Really? The druid girl I'm looking for, have you seen her?
MERLIN
No.
HALIG
Do you know how much money she's worth to me?
[Merlin shakes his head.]
HALIG
More than your life. So I'm asking you again. Have you seen the druid girl?
MERLIN (shakes head)

No.
[Halig pushes Merlin into a chair.]
HALIG
Hold him. I think you're lying to me.
MERLIN
I'm not!
HALIG
I don't believe you.
[Halig swing his arm back to punch Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Halig! What do you think you're doing?
HALIG
We caught the boy behaving suspiciously, Sire.
ARTHUR
Merlin?
HALIG
He could be harbouring the girl, and he's gonna tell us where.
[Merlin shuts his eyes, waiting to be hit. Arthur grabs Halig's arm and gets Merlin
out of the chair.]
ARTHUR
Leave him alone. Merlin is my servant. He has my absolute trust. If you have a
problem with him, you come to me. Do you understand?
HALIG
Sire. (bows) Goodnight, Merlin. Don't forget your dinner.
[Arthur notices the meat on the floor.]
MERLIN
Thank you.
[Merlin notices Arthur staring at the meat on the floor.]
MERLIN
Ah.
ARTHUR
Are those my sausages?
MERLIN (nods)
Mmm.
ARTHUR
You took them?
MERLIN
To keep you in shape.
[Merlin picks up the meat.]
ARTHUR
Are you saying I'm fat?
MERLIN
No. Well, not yet.
ARTHUR
I am not fat!
MERLIN
You see? It's working.
--
[INT. TUNNELS]
[Merlin goes to Freya in the tunnels.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry I took so long. You must be hungry. What is it?
FREYA
Nothing.
MERLIN
But you're upset.
FREYA
No.
MERLIN
D'you think I wasn't coming? But I promised you I would.
FREYA
I scare most people away.
MERLIN
I'm not most people. How long had you been in that cage?
FREYA
A few days.
MERLIN
And the bounty hunter?
FREYA
Halig.
MERLIN
How did he find you?
FREYA (sniffs)
You can't always trust people.
MERLIN
I know. That's why I left home.
FREYA
Where is home?
MERLIN
Ealdor. It's a small village. Just a few fields, a couple of cows. Nothing special.
FREYA
My home was next to a lake surrounded by the tallest mountains. In the winter the
storms whipped up the water into waves and you thought they were going to crash
down and take away all the houses. But in the summer, wild flowers and light. It
was like heaven.
MERLIN
Sounds perfect.
FREYA
It was.
MERLIN
Was?
FREYA
My family died.
MERLIN
Have you been on your own ever since? You're not on your own anymore. I'm going to
look after you. I promise.
FREYA
You can't look after me. No one can.
MERLIN
No, I don't think you understand. I've never known anyone like you. I wish I could
stay.
FREYA
You're going?
MERLIN
We need to be careful. I'll come back in the morning. You know I will be back,
don't you?
FREYA
Merlin, I've never known anyone like you either.
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN]
GAIUS
I think they've been killed by some kind of wild animal.
UTHER
Have you're men been able to track the creature?
ARTHUR
That's the strange thing, 'cause the ground is soft. Obviously a bear or wolf would
leave some mark. But there are no tracks.
GAIUS
Then what are these?
ARTHUR
Human footprints.
GAIUS
But they're leading away from the bodies. Did someone escape the attack?
ARTHUR
No one's come forward.
UTHER
Could the person who made these be responsible?
GAIUS
I don't believe so. These wounds could only've been inflicted by a beast of
considerable size.
UTHER
And if this was done by neither a man nor beast, there's only one other
explanation. It must be the work of a magical creature.
--
[INT. TUNNELS]
MERLIN
I know, I'm late again. Sorry. But, er, this is going to be the best bread you have
ever tasted. What do you want with it? Come on. You can have anything. Ham. Cheese.
FREYA
Strawberries.
MERLIN
Strawberries it is.
[Merlin clears his throat and rubs hands together.]

MERLIN
Blóstma.
[Merlin opens his hands to reveal a red rose.]
FREYA
That's not a strawberry.
MERLIN
Er, it's the right colour.
FREYA
Why are you so good to me?
MERLIN
Because I can't help it. I don't know. I like you. With you I can just be who I am.
We don't have to hide anything. We don't have to worry.
FREYA
Merlin, please, listen to me. I'm not like you.
MERLIN
They must've followed me.
FREYA
They're going to find me. I can't go back in that cage, I can't.
MERLIN
Shh. I won't let that happen. I promised you I'd look after you, and I will. No
matter what. You really don't realise how special you are, do you?
FREYA
You're not scared of me?
MERLIN
Being different's nothing to be scared of.
--
MERLIN
*humming*
GAIUS
Will you stop that?
MERLIN
What?
GAIUS
Sit down and eat your soup.
MERLIN
*humming*
GAIUS
Merlin.
MERLIN
Sorry.
GAIUS
What is wrong with you?
MERLIN
Nothing. I feel great.
GAIUS
Good. Then you can get on with some chores.
MERLIN
Chores?
GAIUS
Unless you have something better to do.
MERLIN
Sorry, I'm going out.
GAIUS
Well what time will you be back?
MERLIN
Er, well don't wait up for me. I might be late.
--
[INT. TUNNELS]
FREYA
MERLIN
I couldn't help it.
FREYA
It's dangerous.
MERLIN
I don't care.
FREYA
No, Merlin, you have to be careful.
MERLIN
Ugh, I'm fed up with being careful. I am fed up with all of this. So I've decided,
we're going to get you out of here, out of Camelot.
FREYA
How?
MERLIN
I'll get you some clothes, disguise you. What's wrong?
FREYA
It's just, I'm going to miss you.
MERLIN
No, you won't, because I'm going to come with you.
FREYA
What?
MERLIN
I told you I'm going to look after you.
FREYA
You can't. Don't say that.
MERLIN
It's not what you want?
FREYA
Merlin, you have a good life here. My life is...I have to keep moving, always
looking over my shoulder, people chasing me.
MERLIN
Then we'll go somewhere no one knows us. Somewhere far away. You haven't given me
your answer.
FREYA
I want that more than anything. Where will we go?
MERLIN
Somewhere with mountains.
FREYA
A few fields.
MERLIN
Wild flowers.
FREYA
A couple of cows.
MERLIN
And a lake.
FREYA
And a lake.
--
[Merlin knocks on Morgana's door.]
MERLIN (muffled)
Lady Morgana?
[Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
Lady Morgana?
[Merlin looks through Morgana's closet looking for a dress.]
GWEN
Merlin? I'm sure there's an obvious explanation.
MERLIN
There is.
GWEN
Which is?
MERLIN
Moths.
FREYA
Moths?
MERLIN
Yes. The castle's overrun with them.
GWEN
Really?
MERLIN
I was just checking that they hadn't got in here as well.
GWEN
And have they?
MERLIN
That's, that's totally infested. I have to burn it.
GWEN
Burn it?
MERLIN
Yeah. And if we don't stop them, we'll all be walking around naked.
--
[Arthur sees Merlin with the dress.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
MERLIN
Er, running an errand for Gaius.
ARTHUR
For Gaius?
MERLIN
Yes.
ARTHUR
Strange.
MERLIN
Oh, I don't think it's for him.
ARTHUR
As long as you do a decent day's work, Merlin, that's all I care about.
MERLIN
No, no. It's not for me.
ARTHUR
What a man does in his spare time is completely up to him.
MERLIN
No, you- you've got this wrong.
ARTHUR
Colour suits you, Merlin.
--
UTHER
The beast has struck again?
GAIUS
I'm afraid so. The wounds match those of the previous victims.
ARTHUR
The man who saw it spoke of a huge black cat with wings.
UTHER
I was right. This is not the work of a natural creature.
GAIUS
Are there any tracks this time?
ARTHUR
Just human footprints again.
UTHER
Can you identify this monster?
GAIUS
I will need more time to investigate.
UTHER
Oh, come on. You always have theories in these matters.
GAIUS
This time, Sire, I prefer to wait till I'm certain.
UTHER
There is no time to waste, Gaius.
GAIUS
I'll report back to you before the day's out, Sire.
--
[INT. TUNNELS]
[Merlin brings Freya the dress in the tunnel.]
MERLIN
You look like a princess.
FREYA
I'm not. I can't take this.
MERLIN
Freya, I don't understand.
FREYA
You keep doing all this for me. I don't deserve it.
MERLIN
I want to. What's wrong?
FREYA
Nothing.
MERLIN
Here. Please. You'll look wonderful in it. We can leave tonight as soon as it gets
dark and we'll be together.
FREYA
We'll need supplies. Food, water.
MERLIN
All right. I'll try to get horses, and we'll need blankets, but that's all we'll
need.
FREYA
Go on, go.
MERLIN
I won't be long.
[Merlin leaves.]
FREYA
Goodbye, Merlin.
--
MERLIN
Gaius, I was just...
GAIUS
Merlin, sit down. I want to talk to you.
MERLIN
Is everything alright? You look worried.
GAIUS
The beast struck again last night. There are two more deaths in the lower town.
MERLIN
Do you know what it is yet?
GAIUS
Once more there were no tracks around the bodies, but human footprints were leading
away from them.
MERLIN
Right.
GAIUS
It doesn't seem to add up. The footprints would indicate a human was responsible,
but the wounds inflicted are definitely the work of some kind of beast.
MERLIN
Strange.
GAIUS
Yes. Until I remembered what Halig said about the druid girl, that she's cursed.
MERLIN
What's that got to do with the monster?
GAIUS
The ancient chronicles speak of a heinous curse. It dooms its victim to turn at the
stroke of midnight into a vicious, bloodthirsty beast. The writers of old called
this creature a Bastet: a monster of nightmare that inhabits the twilight world
between the living and the dead. Merlin, I want the truth. Did you release the
druid girl from the cage?
MERLIN
Of course not!
GAIUS
There was a time when you thought twice before lying to me.
MERLIN
I did what was right.
GAIUS
You know the creature and the girl are one and the same.
MERLIN
You're wrong. Freya is just a girl.
GAIUS
Merlin, please think about what I'm saying. You know it is the truth. Where is she
now?
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
She's killed already, and she'll kill again. She can't stop herself.
MERLIN
Please, Gaius. Where are you going?
GAIUS
To Uther.
MERLIN
I'm begging you! Just give me some time to get her out of the city, please.
GAIUS
I'm sorry. I can't let more innocent people die.
--
[INT. TUNNELS – NIGHT]
MERLIN
Freya. Freya!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER – NIGHT]
GAIUS
I had no choice, Merlin. Uther had to be told.
MERLIN
They won't find her. She's gone.
GAIUS
I'm sorry. I do understand how you must feel, Merlin.
MERLIN
You could never understand. Do you know how it feels to be a monster? To be afraid
of who you are?
GAIUS
Freya's very different from you. She's dangerous.
MERLIN
Whatever she is, and whatever she's done, she doesn't deserve to die. I just hope
she's safe. Somewhere far away.
[Warning bells sound.]
--
GUARD
There she is! Stop!
FREYA
Please let me go.
HALIG
No one escapes from me.
[The clock begins to chime. Freya begins screaming, transforming into Bastet.
Arthur and the knights fight her in the square, Arthur wounds her. Merlin runs into
the square, she sees him and flies off instead of attacking.]
--
[INT.TUNNELS]
[Melrin finds Freya weeping and naked in the tunnels and he places his jacket over
her.]
MERLIN
You're all right. You're safe now.
FREYA (crying)
You must hate me.
MERLIN
No.
FREYA
I'm a monster. I tried to tell you.
MERLIN
I know.
FREYA
I wasn't always like this.
MERLIN
Shh. You shouldn't try to talk.
FREYA
There was a man. He attacked me. I didn't mean to hurt him, but I thought he was
going to kill me.
MERLIN
It was an accident.
FREYA
His mother was a sorceress, and when she find out that I'd killed her son, she
cursed me to kill forever more.
MERLIN
I'm going to make you better, Freya.
FREYA
No, Merlin, the wounds too deep. Please go.
MERLIN
No. I'm not leaving you here.
--
[EXT. LAKE OF AVALON – DAY]
[Merlin takes Freya to the Lake of Avalon, surrounded by mountains.]
FREYA
You remembered.
MERLIN
Of course. I'm so sorry for what that sorcerer did to you.
FREYA
Merlin, you have nothing to be sorry for.
MERLIN
There must be something I can do, some way to save you.
FREYA
You've already saved me. You made me feel loved.
MERLIN
I don't want you to go.
FREYA
One day, Merlin, I will repay you. I promise.
[Merlin places Freya in a boat.]
MERLIN
Astyre.
[The spell sends the boat out onto the lake.]
MERLIN
Wæcce on sæbát bælfýr mæst.
[The spell ignites the boat.]
--
GAIUS
Merlin, I was so worried.
MERLIN
I'm sorry, Gaius.
GAIUS
Where's the girl?
MERLIN
She's gone. She's dead.
GAIUS
I'm sorry, Merlin. Truly, I am.
--
[Merlin cleans Arthur's boots, sitting on the floor.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Merlin. I'm looking for you.
MERLIN
Yeah, right, er, you're gonna ask me to polish your armour and to, er, wash your
clothes and clean your room.
[Arthur sits down on the floor next to Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Something's been upsetting you, hasn't it?
MERLIN
Maybe.
ARTHUR
Was it when I threw water over you?
MERLIN
It wasn't very nice.
ARTHUR
It was a bit unfair. Like when you called me fat.
MERLIN
Why was that unfair?
ARTHUR
Because I am not f...
[Arthur puts Merlin in a headlock and rubs his hair with his knuckles.]
MERLIN
Ow! Ah!
ARTHUR
Still think I need to get in shape?
MERLIN
No! No! No, no, no, no!
ARTHUR
That's better.
MERLIN
Thanks.
ARTHUR
You are right, though. You need to polish my armour, wash my clothes, and clean my
room.
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:37
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BBC Merlin: 2x10 Sweet Dreams
KILGHARRAH
--
[Arthur and Uther watch from the battlements as kings arrive with their
entourages.]
ARTHUR
Father, we're not going into battle, you don't have to look so sombre.
UTHER
Never before have the rulers of the five kingdoms come together in this way. Never
before have we all worked towards the same aim, towards peace. If these talks are
successful, Camelot will enter a new era of prosperity. If they fail, we will
almost certainly be at war.
--
[Alined drops his cloak on the ground as he dismounts in the Square.]
KING ALINED
Boy! Is it too much to ask that you might anticipate my needs?!
TRICKLER
No, Master. I was just...
KING ALINED
Stop whinging.
TRICKLER
Sorry, Master.
UTHER
Alined, you are most welcome on this momentous occasion.
[They grasp arms.]
KING ALINED
Momentous? Let us hope so.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ALINED’S GUEST CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Alined watching Olaf's party arrive in the Square from his guest quarters.]
KING ALINED
Uther may think that we are gathered here for peace, but that is far from my mind.
TRICKLER
Am I to take it that Lady Vivian is part of our plan? She is very lovely.
KING ALINED
Don't let her father hear you say that. Not if you value your head.
TRICKLER
Oh, indeed, I do. It is my prettiest feature.
KING ALINED
Olaf is the most overprotective buffoon I've ever met. It would surely end the
peace talks if anyone were to lay a finger on her.
TRICKLER
But nobody in their right mind would...do that.
KING ALINED
But Arthur won't be in his right mind, will he?
--
[Olaf approaches Uther.]
KING OLAF
What kind of welcome is this? You have us hanging around like the last swallows of
summer.
UTHER
You are welcome, indeed, Olaf.
KING OLAF
May I present my daughter, the Lady Vivian.
UTHER
Lady Vivian. How like your mother you are.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, VIVIAN’S GUEST CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Arthur escorts Vivian to her guest chambers.]
ARTHUR
I hope everything is to your satisfaction.
LADY VIVIAN
It is...adequate.
ARTHUR
Most of our guests are extremely happy here. I'm sure you will be, too.
LADY VIVIAN
Hm. I am not most of your guests.
ARTHUR
In...deed.
[Gwen enters.]
ARTHUR
Well, er, may I present Guinevere. She'll be looking after you for the duration of
your stay. You'll want for nothing. She is truly one of Camelot's finest.
LADY VIVIAN (giggle)

Then I fear for Camelot.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, OUTSIDE VIVIAN’S GUEST CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Arthur and Gwen pause as they exit and close the door behind them. They look at
each other and laugh.]
ARTHUR
Good luck with that one.
GWEN
Mmm.
[Arthur stares at her for a bit before she notices. Arthur remembers himself and
starts to leave.]
ARTHUR
I need to prepare for the feast.
--
[Merlin's brushes down Arthur's jacket while Arthur dresses behind a screen.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, what kind of impression do you think this gives?
[Arthur wiggles his thumb through a hole in his sleeve.]
MERLIN
That we have moths?
ARTHUR
Fetch me another.
MERLIN
And who might you be trying to impress, Sire?
ARTHUR
Well, let me see. Perhaps the five kings sitting in the banquet hall below.
MERLIN
Oh. Not the King's daughter, then? The Lady Vivian, she is very beautiful.
ARTHUR
Anyone trying to impress the Lady Vivian does so at extreme peril. Olaf'd have
their head in a vat of hot oil before they'd have a chance to say hello. Besides,
she's not my type. She may be beautiful, but she's incredibly rude. You should've
heard what she said to Gwen.
MERLIN
Anyone insulting Gwen should do so at extreme peril.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
Nothing. I just know how you feel about her, that's all. That is, if your feelings
haven't changed, as I presume they haven't.
ARTHUR
I do have my own vat of hot oil, you know.
MERLIN (laughs)
You're blushing!
ARTHUR
No I'm not.
MERLIN
What's wrong with Gwen?
ARTHUR
Nothing.
MERLIN
I think she's very worthy of your love.
ARTHUR
Indeed, were it so.
MERLIN
Which...it is.
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
Yes, Arthur?
ARTHUR
Get out.
MERLIN
Yes, Sire.
[Merlin smiles and leaves.]
--
[Trickler breathes fire.]
TRICKLER
But it is not enough to please just the gentlemen of the court. Now I have a
spectacle for the ladies.
[Trickler produces butterflies out of nowhere.]
UTHER
It is skill, indeed.
KING ALINED
We aim to please.
TRICKLER (gasp)
But what is this? Lady Vivian.
[Trickler puts his hand by her ear and pulls it back to reveal a butterfly on his
hand.]
TRICKLER
It has mistaken you for a beautiful flower.
[Trickler looks down at his hand, revealing that he's taken a lock of her hair.]
--
[Trickler creates a potion with Vivian's hair.]
TRICKLER
... læfe he híe þonne he áwæcaþ. Biþ his hyht þæt he her seón mote ána oftíe þonne
ealle mán.
KING ALINED
Sleep well, Prince Arthur. When you wake, may your thoughts be only of Vivian.
[Trickler sneaks into Arthur's Chambers and pours eye drops on him while he
sleeps.]
TRICKLER
Héo hæfþ þín heorte.
[Trickler places Vivian's lock of hair under Arthur's pillow.]
TRICKLER
Sweet dreams.
--
[Arthur stares out his window at Lady Vivian scolding a servant in the Square.]
MERLIN
Good morning, Sire!
ARTHUR
Never have you been more right, Merlin. It is the sunniest, the most fragrant, the
most beautiful morning I've ever seen in my life.
MERLIN
You're dressed.
ARTHUR
I am the future King of Camelot, I do have some skills, you know.
MERLIN
Indeed, you are very skilled at getting people to do things for you.
ARTHUR
That is your job. But today my job is to woo.
MERLIN
To what?
ARTHUR
To woo. I wish to make a proclamation of love.
MERLIN
Really? I thought you wanted to keep your feelings secret?
ARTHUR
Why would I want to do that? By the end of today I will have won my lady.
MERLIN
Right. Well, what will you tell your father?
ARTHUR
What does my father matter?
MERLIN
Well, that's one way of approaching things.
ARTHUR
So, I need your help in expressing my feelings.
MERLIN
Of course.
[Arthur waits for Merlin to say something. Merlin waits uncertainly for Arthur to
explain.]
ARTHUR
How to express my feelings.
MERLIN
Oh, I see. Erm. Feelings.
ARTHUR
Feelings.
MERLIN
Girls.
ARTHUR
Girls.
MERLIN
Flowers?
ARTHUR
Excellent. Find some. Perhaps you should also send a note.
MERLIN
Brilliant idea.
ARTHUR
Something moving. Something from the heart. Something...you'll think of something.
--
[EXT/INT. GWEN’S HOUSE – DAY]
[Merlin approaches Gwen's door with flowers and knocks before going in.]
MERLIN
Gwen? Gwen?
[Gwen isn't home, so Merlin places flowers on the table and remembers to pull out
the note.]
MERLIN
"The barriers that keep us apart are nothing compared to the power of true love. -
Arthur"
[Merlin mulls over his own brilliance before placing the note carefully next to the
flowers.]
--
[The kings gather for peace talks.]
UTHER
Your demands are noted and will be taken into consideration in due course. In the
meantime, is there anyone else who has any other comments about the northern
territories?
[Merlin enters and gets Arthur's attention.]
KING OLAF
Well, may I just point out that...
--
[Arthur talks with Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Did you do it?
MERLIN
I left them in her room. I thought that was better than a public display.
ARTHUR
You're sure she got them?
MERLIN
I'm sure she will get them.
ARTHUR
Good. All we can do now is wait.
[Arthur sees Gwen and Vivian walking down the other end of the corridor.]
ARTHUR
Oh, but heaven has blessed me. She's even more beautiful than before, don't you
agree?
MERLIN
Yeah. Erm...I'm surprised to hear you talk so openly.
ARTHUR
Nonsense. I want to tell the world. I want to shout it across the kingdom.
MERLIN
Are you sure that's a good idea? I understand your feelings, but other people may
object.
ARTHUR
Object? To what?
MERLIN
Well, you're the future King of Camelot and she's just a lowly serving girl.
Albeit, a very nice serving girl...
[Arthur slaps Merlin.]
MERLIN
Ah!
ARTHUR
Lady Vivian's of royal blood, a future queen. I will have your head if I hear such
insolence again.
[Arthur storms off.]
MERLIN
Lady Vivian... Oh, no!
--
[Merlin bursts in. Gwen quickly covers up the note she's reading, the flowers are
in a vase.]
GWEN
Merlin, can't you knock?
MERLIN
Rats.
GWEN
What?
MERLIN
Big. Hairy. Sharp teeth. Er...yeah, definitely under here.
[Merlin ducks under the table. Gwen peeks under the table.]
GWEN
Are you feeling alright?
MERLIN
Me? Never better. You?
GWEN
I'm having a very surprising day.
MERLIN
Really?
GWEN
You know one of those occasions when you've lost all hope and then, out of the
blue, something happens to restore your faith?
MERLIN
Sort of.
GWEN
Well, that's what's happened to me today.
--
MERLIN
I may have caused a problem. Although it wasn't entirely my doing.
GAIUS
What now, Merlin?
MERLIN
Arthur's in love.
GAIUS
And how did you cause that?
MERLIN
That bit isn't my fault, the other bit is. Oh, I can't tell you about that bit.
GAIUS
Clear as mud.
MERLIN
Arthur's completely besotted, he can't concentrate on anything. All he thinks
about, all he talks about is...is the Lady Vivian.
GAIUS
The Lady Vivian? How could that have happened so suddenly?
MERLIN
I don't know. Something doesn't feel right. Only yesterday he dismissed her as
rude.
GAIUS
If Arthur professes his love for Vivian, Olaf will be furious. Surely, Arthur knows
that?
[Merlin sighs and nods.]
MERLIN
See, he said it was his job to woo his lady by the end of the day.
GAIUS
And it's your job to stop him.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, VIVIAN’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Arthur stands outside with a platter and a rose. He takes a breath before
knocking.]
LADY VIVIAN
Who is it?
ARTHUR
It is destiny, my love! Destiny and chicken!
[Vivian opens the door.]
ARTHUR
What a beautiful combination, eh?
[Vivian closes the door in his face and begins to walk away. Arthur opens the
door.]
ARTHUR
The beans are a little cold, but the meat is very good.
LADY VIVIAN
Go away.
ARTHUR
My love, I do not know what I've done to offend you.
LADY VIVIAN
Your love?! Not now, nor ever!
ARTHUR
Come now.
LADY VIVIAN
My father will kill you if he finds you here.
ARTHUR
Your father does not worry me.
LADY VIVIAN
You won't be saying that when he's running at you with a knife in his hand. I've
seen it before.
ARTHUR
Really?
LADY VIVIAN
Yes.
[She shuts the doors again.]
ARTHUR
Just five minutes! *knocks*
MERLIN
My Lord, I don't think your advances are welcome.
LADY VIVIAN (muffled)

Go away! And take your chicken with you!
ARTHUR
Don't know what gives you that impression.
[Arthur shoves the tray at Merlin. Trickler sees them leave.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ALINED’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Alined pounds the table with his fists.]
KING ALINED
Diet?! Every woman in the land is attracted to this boy! I'm almost attracted to
him myself.
[Trickler giggles, but stops when he sees Alined’s expression.]
TRICKLER
Oh. Not Lady Vivian, My Lord.
KING ALINED
We have until the end of tomorrow to scupper these talks. I need war. Do you
understand?
TRICKLER
Oh, oh, yes, I do. I do.
KING ALINED
Peace will make me poor, and you know what happens to poor kings. They can't afford
castles, or knights, or jesters.
TRICKLER
Oh, but Master...
KING ALINED
Enough. There will be time for snivelling when the axe is over your head. Now there
is work to be done.
TRICKLER
Yes. Yes.
--
[Arthur sulks in bed.]
ARTHUR
Go on, Merlin. Say it.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
You do not think I should pursue my love.
MERLIN
Well, seeing as you asked, I think a number of things stand in the way of a happy
union between you and the Lady Vivian. Her bloodthirsty father, for one.
ARTHUR
Her complete lack of interest for another.
MERLIN
Might it be worthwhile returning to your old love? Although, I have my reservations
about that as well.
ARTHUR
What are you talking about, Merlin? I don't have an old love.
[Arthur finds Vivian's hair under his pillow.]
ARTHUR
What on earth? You really need to start paying attention to the details.
--
[Gaius inspects the lock of hair.]
MERLIN
I knew something wasn't right.
GAIUS
Arthur's enchanted.
MERLIN
I should have realised he had magic. No one can make butterflies appear from thin
air.
GAIUS
Trickler?
MERLIN
Why would he want Arthur to fall in love with Vivian?
GAIUS
An advance by Arthur would be a sure-fire way to ruin the peace conference. Maybe
Alined wants war.
MERLIN
Without creating it himself.
GAIUS
It's the sort of cowardly behaviour you would expect from him. Cowardly, but
clever.
MERLIN
We need to find a way of turning Arthur back to normal.
GAIUS
Before it's too late.
--
[Trickler takes a scissors to Arthur's hair. Arthur turns in his sleep, cradling
Trickler's arm.]
ARTHUR
Mmm. Lady Vivian, my love.
[Trickler mouths "my love, Vivian" and rolls his eyes while extracting his arm.
Trickler places lock of Arthur's under Vivian's pillow and pours a drop of potion
into her eye.]
--
[Merlin sleeps on a pile of books.]
GAIUS
Breakfast.
MERLIN
There are over 636 love spells in these books, and over 150 of them involve a lock
of hair.
GAIUS
Is there no way we can narrow them down a bit?
MERLIN
I have. Look. If I choose this one and it's wrong, Arthur will end up as a toad.
And if this one's wrong, Vivian will lose all her hair.
GAIUS
Olaf might not declare war for that, but she certainly would.
--
[Trickler watches Gwen walking down the corridor with a breakfast tray.]
TRICKLER
Flíeh hrǽgl.
[The rug pulls out from under Gwen. She trips and squeals as the tray goes flying.]
TRICKLER
Oops.
--
[Vivian opens her door and Trickler presents her with a food platter.]
TRICKLER
Gwen has been detained. I thought you might appreciate breakfast.
LADY VIVIAN
Oh, thank you. How kind. I'm so happy this morning, I could almost forget to eat.
Oh, well that looks wonderful. Really wonderful.
TRICKLER
Pray, My Lady. What has caused such happiness?
LADY VIVIAN
I cannot tell, so do not ask.
TRICKLER
Intriguing. You know, another meaning of jester is "keeper of secrets."
LADY VIVIAN
Really?
TRICKLER
No. (giggle)

Oh, Trickler, you mustn't tell. Not a soul. Especially not my father.
TRICKLER
Go on.
LADY VIVIAN
I am in love! (giggle)
TRICKLER (gasp)
How wonderful! With me?
[Vivian giggles for a moment, then grimaces at the thought.]
LADY VIVIAN
Ugh. With a man more courageous than a lion, stronger than an ox, and so perfectly
formed it is as if he has been sculpted by the gods themselves.
TRICKLER
But it must be me.
LADY VIVIAN
Oh, just to speak his name brings me pleasure, indeed! *giggle*
TRICKLER
Then speak it you should.
LADY VIVIAN
Arthur. (giggle) There, I've said it! My heart belongs to Arthur!
TRICKLER
Excellent.

In fact, I'm gonna tell him now.
TRICKLER
Oh, a brilliant idea!
LADY VIVIAN
Where is Gwen? I must dress.
TRICKLER
But you look so beautiful, My Lady.
[He turns her towards the mirror.]
TRICKLER
How could he refuse you like this?
LADY VIVIAN
In my nightgown?
TRICKLER
Why not?
[Vivian turns and puffs out her chest.]
LADY VIVIAN
Hm.
--
[Gwen walks past Arthur. He pets his horse absentmindedly while he mopes.]
GWEN
What is it, Arthur? You look like you have something on your mind.
ARTHUR (sigh)
You read me like a book. I've made a fool of myself, that's all. That's everything.
GWEN
I'm that is not true.
ARTHUR
You have a good heart, Guinevere, but I'm afraid it is. I have made a gesture, but
it was not well received.
GWEN
You sure?
ARTHUR
Pretty sure.
GWEN
Then you are wrong.
ARTHUR
You are very close to the lady in question.
[Gwen lets out a puff of laughter.]
GWEN
Your token was much appreciated. But the situation is delicate, and it is not
always easy to express what is really in one's heart.
ARTHUR
You think there's hope?
GWEN
There is always hope.
ARTHUR
If only I had some way of knowing.
GWEN
Indeed, My Lord.
--
[Someone knocks on Arthur's door. Merlin answers.]
LADY VIVIAN
I wish to see Arthur. Your master. My Lord.
MERLIN
Your what?
LADY VIVIAN
My heart's delight.
MERLIN
Oh, no.
LADY VIVIAN
Where is he?
MERLIN
He's not here, which is a very good thing, I believe!
LADY VIVIAN
Then I shall wait.
MERLIN
I don't think that's a good idea. You...You're not even dressed.
LADY VIVIAN
My love does not care what I wear, only that I am near. Now fetch him.
MERLIN
I cannot.
LADY VIVIAN
You will.
MERLIN
Shan't.
LADY VIVIAN
As he commands you, I command you!
MERLIN
I am asking you to leave.
LADY VIVIAN
I want my love. I need my love. I want to see him now.
[Vivian climbs onto Arthur's bed, smells his pillow, and buries her face in his
sheets.]
--
UTHER
Moving on to our final point for discussion...
[Trickler whispers to a servant by the door, who goes to Olaf.]
UTHER
The boundaries of the eastern territories.
KING OLAF
This is a point that I am willing to concede.
UTHER
Well, that is very good news.
SERVANT (whisper)
Excuse me, Sire.
KING OLAF (to Uther)

One moment.
SERVANT
I heard your daughter is...
KING OLAF
WHAT!
--
[Lady Vivian arranges herself on Arthur's bed.]
KING OLAF(distant)
Where is he?!
MERLIN
What's that?
[Merlin peeks out into the corridor and sees Arthur coming.]
MERLIN
Oh, no.
[Merlin looks the other way and sees Olaf coming.]
MERLIN
Oh, no!
[Merlin ducks back inside and runs to Vivian.]
MERLIN
OK, you need to go!
LADY VIVIAN
You cannot keep us apart. It's written in the stars. Vivian and Arthur. A love for
all time. A love stronger than time. A love...
MERLIN
Stop! Swefe nu!
[Vivian is knocked out. Arthur enters just as Merlin closes the wardrobe.]
ARTHUR
Why are you hanging around with a bad smell? It's me who needs to bathe. I'm not
going to win my love stinking like an old kipper.
MERLIN
No, My Lord.
KING OLAF
Where is he?! I know she's in here, Arthur! Hand her over! Or feel my wrath!
ARTHUR
What's he talking about?
TRICKLER
She wasn't even dressed.
ARTHUR
If I have dishonoured you in some way, then, by all means, provide me with proof
and I'll face the consequences.
KING OLAF
Trickler here has told me that the Lady Vivian is in your chambers.
ARTHUR
If only that were true.
[Olaf grabs the front of Arthur's shirt with both hands.]
MERLIN
If only that were true you would not look so foolish.
[Olaf lets him go.]
KING OLAF
Search the room! You better hope I don't find her.
MERLIN
Behæpse fæst.
[The wardrobe door locks. Trickler goes to it and tries to open it.]
MERLIN
That hasn't opened in years.
[Olaf grabs Trickler.]
KING OLAF
You buffoon! You made an idiot out of me!
[Olaf shoves Trickler who scurries out of the room. Olaf turns to Arthur.]
KING OLAF
I am, er, so terribly sorry, Arthur, to have disturbed you. I...I do hope that you
will forgive me.
[Arthur waves at the apology.]
KING OLAF
Check on the Lady Vivian! And remain outside her room!
[Olaf and guards exit.]
ARTHUR
If only the Lady Vivian were in my room. How delightful that would be. Eh, Merlin?
Merlin? Merlin?
--
[Merlin flops Vivian onto her own guest bed.]
--
[Trickler reports to Alined.]
TRICKLER
It's that meddlesome Merlin. He's onto us, My Lord. There was nothing I could do.
You-you-you do understand, Master? Say you forgive your boy.
KING ALINED
You have a matter of hours before the peace treaty is signed.
TRICKLER
Th--th--that is time enough, Master. Time enough.
KING ALINED
It's less time than you've had already, and you haven't managed it so far.
TRICKLER
But the enchantment is strong, My Lord. Sooner or later, the two will be drawn
together.
[Alined grabs Trickler's face.]
KING ALINED
For the sake of your prettiest feature, you had better believe that to be the case.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Gwen slips a note under Arthur's door and leaves with a smile.]
--
[Applause and laughter.]
UTHER
This is, indeed, a momentous day for the five kingdoms. This peace treaty's been
long in the making, but I know you must all be keen to return to your families, so
we will make preparation for the signing ceremony immediately. I am pleased,
friends. Very pleased.
KING ALINED
As are we all.
--
[Merlin snaps a book shut.]
MERLIN
That's it! I've got it!
GAIUS
Are you sure? You're not going to turn Arthur into a hunchback camel or a horny-
eyed toad?
MERLIN
I'll, er, save that for another day.
--
[Arthur opens Gwen's note in his chambers.]
ARTHUR
"A second chance. Sunset. I'll await your presence."
--
[Gwen prepares for Arthur's visit.]
--
[INT/EXT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR/MAIN SQUARE/VIVIAN’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Arthur walks down the Red Ribbon Corridor with a rose, sees guards, hides the
rose, and looks for another way to sneak into Vivian's chambers. Ends up scaling
the wall in the Square and falling in through the window with the mangled red rose
in his mouth.]
ARTHUR (sigh)
At last.
--
[Merlin searches the palace. He pokes his head in Arthur chambers.]
MERLIN
Arthur? Arthur!
--
[Gwen waits for Arthur.]
--
[The kings and court wait for Arthur at the treaty signing in the Hall of
Ceremonies.]
KNIGHT (to Uther)

I cannot find Arthur.
KING ALINED
Is there a problem Uther?
UTHER
No, not at all. Arthur's just running a little late, that's all.
KING ALINED
As is the Lady Vivian.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, VIVIAN’S GUEST CHAMBERS – NIGHT]
[Arthur sits next to Vivian as she wakes.]
LADY VIVIAN
My love!
ARTHUR
Always. Forever.
[They launch at each other, kissing furiously. Merlin runs in.]
MERLIN
Abuge áglǽccræft.
[Nothing happens.]
MERLIN
[Nothing happens.]
MERLIN
[Nothing happens. Olaf storms in followed by Alined, Uther, and Trickler.]
KING OLAF
I knew it!
MERLIN
I don't believe it.
LADY VIVIAN
Father! We've got something to tell you.
UTHER
Arthur!
[Olaf throws his glove at the foot of the bed.]
LADY VIVIAN
Father!
KING OLAF
You once said that if you ever truly offended my honour, then you would happily pay
the price. What say you now, Prince Arthur?
ARTHUR
How have I offended your honour? Surely not with my love alone?!
KING OLAF
Love?! You don't know the first thing about love! You're taking advantage of an
innocent girl!
LADY VIVIAN
Father.
UTHER
Arthur!
ARTHUR
I assure you, my feelings for your daughter are as real as they are strong.
KING OLAF
Unhand her, or suffer the consequences. Is this really worth risking your life for?
LADY VIVIAN
Arthur?
ARTHUR
Indeed, it is. I would rather die than deny my feelings. I love your daughter with
all my heart.
[Arthur kisses Vivian and picks up the glove.]
--
[Gwen sadly blows out the last candle, removing her shawl.]
--
UTHER
It's no good. I've spoken to Olaf, he will not rescind the challenge. He says his
honour has been tainted. He demands recompense.
ARTHUR
You didn't have to do that, Father.
UTHER
The fight is to the death. What did you think you were doing?
ARTHUR
You cannot help who you fall in love with.
UTHER
You do realise that your actions threaten the peace talks, and that it may yet
bring war to Camelot?
ARTHUR
I am happy to fight for what I believe in.
[Uther turns to Merlin.]
UTHER
What's happened to him?
ARTHUR
Lady Vivian. Nothing more. And yet, who could wish for more?
[Uther throws up his hands and leaves.]
--
MERLIN
I don't understand it. Trickler's magic is strong, but surely it can't be stronger
than mine?
GAIUS
These love potions are strange things.
MERLIN
We need to go to Uther.
GAIUS
No.
MERLIN
It's a fight to the death!
GAIUS
If Uther realises that one of the kings is using magic, there will certainly be a
war. The only way out of this situation is to unenchant Arthur. And unenchant him
fast.
--
[Morgana watches the lower town from her window as people make their way to the
tournament grounds. Gwen enters to collect the laundry.]
GWEN
Anything interesting?
MORGANA
Haven't you heard? Arthur was discovered in Lady Vivian's chambers.
GWEN
What?
MORGANA
King Olaf has demanded recompense. They are to fight to the death. All for the love
of a woman. And Lady Vivian at that. You look more shocked than I did.
GWEN
It is very surprising.
MORGANA
Well, I don't know why he couldn't control his feelings.
GWEN
Indeed. I will miss the tourney, if you don't mind. There's so much to organise
here.
MORGANA
But of course.
--
[Gwen passes Arthur and Merlin in the corridor.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Guinevere! You will wish me luck?
GWEN
Will I?
ARTHUR
Haven't you heard?
GWEN
Oh, yes. I've heard. Though sadly not from your lips. I wish you could've been more
honest with me, Arthur.
ARTHUR
What is she talking about?
MERLIN
No idea.
--
[Trickler brings King Alined his crown.]
TRICKLER
You are pleased, My Lord? Do I get to keep my fingers?
KING ALINED
Trickler, I shall cast your fingers in gold. I could not have wished for more.
TRICKLER
I told you I would not fail you, My Lord.
KING ALINED
If Olaf kills Arthur, then Uther will start a war. If Arthur kills Olaf, then his
men will start a war. (laughs) We cannot lose!
--
UTHER
King Olaf has demanded recompense. And by the ancient laws of Camelot, the matter
will be settled by a tourney with three stages. The weapons chosen are
quarterstaff, mace, and sword. The fight will be by the Knights' Rules, and to the
death. Are we all clear?
[Arthur starts out doing well, but stops to gaze at Vivian. Olaf takes Arthur out
at the knees, and later breaks Arthur's quarterstaff, catching Arthur in the ribs.]
--
[Gaius inspects Arthur in the tent.]
GAIUS
One of your ribs is broken, Sire.
ARTHUR
Nothing can hurt me today. I'm invincible. Love really can conquer all, Gaius. It's
true.
GAIUS (whisper to Merlin)

This can't go on. The fight's not fair. Arthur's head's in the clouds.
Merlin (whisper)
I don't know what to do.
GAIUS (whisper)
Then find someone who does.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, DRAGON’S CAVE – DAY]
KILGHARRAH (laughs)
This is magic indeed.
MERLIN
Everything I have tried has failed.
KILGHARRAH
From what you tell me, the spell has captured his heart.
MERLIN
And his heart is controlling his brain.
KILGHARRAH
There is no magic that can break this enchantment.
MERLIN
There must be.
KILGHARRAH
It has too great a hold.
MERLIN
I cannot let Arthur die.
KILGHARRAH
Patience, young warlock. The solution lies in a force greater than you or I can
understand, a force that has puzzled many minds...
MERLIN
Please, I have very little time.
KILGHARRAH
...a force...
MERLIN
Just tell me!
[Kilgharrah laughs some more.]
Why, it is the greatest force of all: love.
MERLIN
Love?
KILGHARRAH
You must find the person Arthur truly loves.
MERLIN
And then what?
KILGHARRAH
One kiss from her will break the enchantment, and he will desire Vivian no more.
[Merlin sighs, nods, and leaves in a hurry.]
--
[Arthur prepares for the next bout.]
GAIUS
Are you sure you can carry on, Sire?
ARTHUR
As long as I have Vivian to gaze at, I can conquer the world. Besides, the mace is
my forte. You'll see.
[Arthur being pummelled by Olaf in the arena.]
--
[Merlin bursts into Gwen's house without knocking while she's staring out the
window.]
GWEN
Rats again, Merlin?
MERLIN
What? No. No, erm...I, I need your help. Arthur needs your help.
GWEN
I do not think that Arthur needs me.
MERLIN
Gwen, don't worry. I know.
GWEN
You know what?
MERLIN
Everything. Anyone who spends five minutes with you can see how you feel about each
other. Look, I do not have a lot of time to explain, so you are gonna have to trust
me. Arthur does love you.
GWEN
No he doesn't.
MERLIN
If you don't trust me, trust your feelings.
GWEN (scoff)
I'm never trusting my feelings again.
MERLIN
He's enchanted!
GWEN
Yes, with Lady Vivian! I can see that!
MERLIN
No, I mean literally enchanted with magic, potions, love juice! None of his
feelings are genuine!
GWEN
How can you be sure? When I saw him, his feelings seemed real enough.
MERLIN
Gwen, none of his feelings for Vivian are real. But if you do not break the spell,
his death will be. Search your heart. You know who he loves.
--
[EXT/INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, ARTHUR’S TENT – DAY]
[Olaf continues to pummel Arthur. He's about to finish Arthur with his mace when
the gong is rung. Gwen strides purposefully towards Arthur's tent, pausing to take
a deep breath before passing Gaius on her way inside.]
ARTHUR
Ah! Have you finally come to wish me good luck? 'Cause I really don't think I need
it anymore.
GWEN
No, Arthur. I have not come to wish you luck.
ARTHUR
Well, honestly, that's rather rude.
GWEN
Then let me make amends.
[Gwen pins Arthur up against the tent pole and kisses him. He looks confused for a
moment before closing his eyes and kissing her back. They put their arms around
each other as Arthur dips her. they pull apart and Arthur cringes at his newly
discovered injuries.]
ARTHUR
What am I doing?
GWEN (whisper)
You're in a fight. To the death. You're losing.
ARTHUR
But...
GWEN (whisper)
There's no time to explain. Just...live for me, Arthur. That's all I ask right now.
--
[Arthur approaches arena with Merlin. Arthur sees Gwen climb into the stands.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, if anything should happen to me, look after Gwen. The world may think she
is just a servant, dispensable, but...she's not dispensable to me.
[Merlin smiles and hands Arthur his helmet. Arthur and Olaf fight. Arthur cringes
in pain, but catches sight of Gwen and pushes past the pain. Olaf knocks Arthur to
the ground, but Arthur flips Olaf, disarming him. Arthur stands above him, poised
to strike, then lowers his sword.]
ARTHUR
This is no way to achieve peace!
[Arthur offers Olaf a hand to help him up. The crowd cheers. Arthur nods to Gwen.
Gwen smiles.]
--
[Gwen enters her house to find a note and a red rose on her kitchen table. Arthur's
waits in the corner.]
ARTHUR
I thought I'd better deliver it myself this time. I'm sorry...for...what I put you
through.
GWEN
No. You have nothing to apologise for. I, too, have caused my fair share of hurt.
ARTHUR
You must believe that my feelings for...Vivian...were not real. I have never loved
another.
GWEN
One day you will. One day you will find your real princess. One day you will be
King of Camelot.
And
I cannot be your queen.
ARTHUR
You don't know that.
GWEN
I am as sure of that as you are.
ARTHUR
Things may change.
GWEN
Well, until they do...*bows* My Lord.
[Arthur leaves. Gwen turns around and sighs.]
--
[Uther walks down the corridor with Olaf.]
KING OLAF
Your boy has a very wise head on his shoulders.
UTHER
Yeah.
KING OLAF
I doubt he gets that from you.
UTHER
Ha. I hope these events will not harm our peace treaty.
KING OLAF
Oh, I believe that Vivian was as much to blame as Arthur.
[Vivian wiping her eyes as she descends the palace steps with another lady.]
KING OLAF
I'll take her away from temptation. She's far too young to encounter such things.
Yes, I go in peace.
UTHER
I'm very pleased to hear that.
[Alined tugs on Trickler's manacle chains in the Square.]
KING ALINED
This is more than you deserve, boy. You will run all the way home.
TRICKLER
That's not possible, Master.
KING ALINED
Make it possible.
UTHER
Why so cross Alined?
ARTHUR
Anyone would think you didn't want peace!
KING ALINED
But of course I do. Peace? Love it.
UTHER
Well, you may return any time to view the treaty.
KING ALINED
You're very kind.
[Alined nudges his horse to walk, dragging Trickler behind him. teary eyed Vivian
walks by escorted by her father.]
LADY VIVIAN
We may return, too?
UTHER
You're always welcome.
LADY VIVIAN
My heart will remain, and I hope to join it soon.
[Arthur gives an uncomfortable nod and wave before turning to walk inside with
Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Not too soon.
MERLIN
No. Might conflict with your one true love.
ARTHUR
My what?
MERLIN
You heard me. I have proof.
ARTHUR
Proof?
MERLIN
You kissed her. In the tent.
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
Yes?
ARTHUR
What happened in the tent.
MERLIN
Mm-hmm?
ARTHUR
Speak of it again and I'll kill you.
MERLIN
Okay.
-----------------------------------------------

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November 30 2010, 23:39
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BBC Merlin: 2x11 The Witch's Quickening

KILGHARRAH
--
[A knight and guards escort a cart to Camelot.]
SIR RADNOR
Halt.
[The knight sees a man lying in the road and dismount. the man is mumbling.]
SIR RADNOR
ALVARR
Bandits.
[Bandits attack the party, killing everyone. Sir Radnor turns around and Alvarr
puts a sword to his back.]
ALVARR
Always watch your back. Didn't they teach you that? Well, aren't you going to beg
for your life.
SIR RADNOR
A knight of Camelot does not beg.
[Alvarr brings him to his knees.]
ALVARR
Indulge me.
SIR RADNOR
I'd rather die.
ALVARR
Who am I to deny a man his last request?
[Alvarr kills Sir Radnor. Enmyria hands Alvarr chainmail from a guard.]
ALVARR
We must go if we're to make Camelot by nightfall.
[Mordred removes his hood and smiles.]
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN/MAIN SQUARE – NIGHT]
[The cart party enters the Lower Town at night in the pouring rain. Guards check
the cart.]
GUARD
All clear. Carry on.
[Alvarr dismounts in the Square and two fake guards take a barrel off the cart to
carry it inside.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Take the north door straight ahead. Keep going.
[Merlin wakes from the telepathy. He tries to listen.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Keep going. Hurry!
[Fake guards carry the barrel inside the castle.]
GUARD
Halt!
ALVARR
Folge min bebod.
[The guards die. Merlin walks down Rectangular Corridors searching for Mordred's
party.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Keep going. It's not much further now.
[Alvarr and the fake guards stop. Alvarr begins removing the knight disguise.]
ALVARR
Wait in the Forest of [place name: Brekkba.] by the fork on the north ridge.
[Fake guards open the barrel and help Mordred out of it.]
ALVARR
Are you ready?
[Mordred nods. Mordred and Alvarr run up the step into the palace, Merlin stops to
listen in the Upper Corridor and continues to pursue them.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
Be careful. At the end of the corridor. Morgana's Chamber is next.
ALVARR
Tospringe.
[Alvarr’s spell open's Morgana's door.]
MORDRED
Morgana.
[Morgana wakes.]
MORGANA
Mordred.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR – NIGHT]
[Arthur marches down a corridor with guards.]
ARTHUR
What do you mean you lost them?! They could be dangerous!
[Merlin steps around the corner. Arthur grabs him by the throat and shoves him
against the wall.]
ARTHUR
Merlin?
MERLIN (sputtering)
Morgana's chamber...
ARTHUR
Oh, sorry.
[Arthur lets go of Merlin's throat.]
MERLIN
Morgana's...they're... in Morgana's chambers.
[Arthur bolts.]
--
[Morgana hugs Mordred.]
MORGANA
I thought I'd never see you again.
ALVARR
I found the boy wandering in the woods, lost and alone, hunted by Uther's men.
MORGANA
Who are you?
ALVARR
My name is Alvarr. I, too, have been hunted by Uther since I was a child.
MORGANA
You have magic?
ALVARR
Yes, My Lady. As did my parents, and their parents before them. They were fortunate
to live in a time of peace, before your king declared war on sorcery.
MORGANA
I, too, have known Uther's cruelty.
ALVARR
Magic is not a crime. It is a gift. I wish to walk free and without fear.
[Morgana nods.]
ALVARR
The boy said you would understand.
MORGANA
What are you doing in Camelot? You take a great risk in coming here.
ALVARR
We came to see you.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UPPER CORRIDOR – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin walk with guards to Morgana's Chambers.]
ARTHUR
Are you sure about this?
MERLIN
Definitely. I...saw them with my own eyes.
ARTHUR
What were you doing down there?
MERLIN
I heard voices in my...
ARTHUR
In your...
MERLIN
In my chambers, and I thought I should investigate.
ARTHUR
Frankly, Merlin, it's hard to believe.
MERLIN
I...
ARTHUR
For once, you've shown some real initiative.
--
[Morgana is still clinging to Mordred.]
ALVARR
I will not stand by and watch innocent people destroyed, and I am not alone. Many
have already joined me. Many more join every day.
MORGANA
Alvarr, this is a war you cannot win. Uther has an army at his disposal.
ALVARR
It does not matter how many you are if you wield a weapon powerful enough. When I
was a child, my parents told me of a crystal. It was taken from the sorcerers in
the last days of the Great Purge.
MORGANA
Taken? By Uther.
ALVARR
It is here in Camelot, locked within the vaults beneath us.
MORGANA
The vaults are impregnable. You could never get it out.
ALVARR
No, I could not. But you could.
MORGANA
Me?
ALVARR
You are the King's ward. No one will suspect you. Morgana, you are our only hope.
[Arthur and guards approach Morgana's Chambers. Arthur and Merlin listen at the
door. Arthur kicks the door in. Morgana bolts up in bed.]
MORGANA
What on earth do you think you're doing?!
ARTHUR
I...
[Arthur looks around.]
ARTHUR
I'd reason to believe that there was an intruder in here.
MORGANA
Right now, Arthur, the only intruder is you.
ARTHUR
Camelot has been infiltrated. Did you not hear the warning bell?
MORGANA
Of course I did! I was hoping I'd be safe in my chambers.
ARTHUR
Well, if you'd just permit me to search your room...
MORGANA
You'll do no such thing! Arthur, do you think that if there was someone in my room
I wouldn't know about it?
ARTHUR
Please accept my apologies.
[They exit and Arthur closes the door.]
MERLIN
I don't understand.
ARTHUR
Oh, I'm sorry, Merlin. Which bit didn't you understand? The making a fool out of
me, or making a fool out of yourself?
MERLIN
There was someone in there. I know there was.
ARTHUR
A word of advice, Merlin. In the future, stick to what you do best. Nothing!
[Merlin listens at the door. Mordred listens from the other side. Merlin leaves and
Morgana climbs out of bed.]
ALVARR
We owe you our lives, My Lady.
MORGANA
You're safe for now, but Uther will not rest till he's found and killed you both.
ALVARR
You will help us, then?
MORDRED
Please, Morgana, we need you.
MORGANA
Yes. I will. Of course I will.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBER – DAY]
[Merlin exits his chamber holding his head.]
GAIUS
Late night?
MERLIN
You could say that.
GAIUS
I hear there was a disturbance, an intruder in the city.
MERLIN
Yeah, I heard talking. In my head.
GAIUS
They had magic?
MERLIN (nods)
And I recognised the voice. It was Mordred.
GAIUS
The druid boy? What's he doing here?
MERLIN
He was guiding someone to Morgana's Chamber.
GAIUS
You sure? She and the boy had a kind of bond.
MERLIN
Yeah, but this is about more than that.
GAIUS
What do you mean?
MERLIN
What if they'd been caught? Whatever they were doing, they were prepared to die for
it.
--
[Morgana sneaks in. She takes a set of Arthur's keys. She turns around and Merlin
is standing there.]
MORGANA
Merlin! I was looking for Arthur.
MERLIN
He's out training.
MORGANA
Of course.
MERLIN
He, er, he trains every day. The same time, same place.
MORGANA
I--I just wanted to apologise for last night. Another time, perhaps.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, VAULTS – NIGHT]
[Morgana sneaks down to steal the crystal.]
--
ARTHUR
Come on, Merlin, I'm starving.
MERLIN
Well, you know what they say: good food takes time to prepare.
ARTHUR
And this taste sensation took exactly how long?
MERLIN
Nearly five minutes.
ARTHUR
Really? Five minutes.
MERLIN
You need that long, you see? To let it thicken.
ARTHUR (mutter)
Thicken.
[Warning bells.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, VAULTS – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin enter.]
ARTHUR
The Crystal of Neahtid. The locks are not damaged.
MERLIN
What does that tell you?
ARTHUR
It tells me that somebody stole my keys.
MERLIN
Was it precious, this crystal?
ARTHUR
Of course it was precious. It wouldn't be down here otherwise, would it?
MERLIN
Right.
ARTHUR
Whoever it was knew exactly what they were looking for.
MERLIN
Apparently.
ARTHUR
Apparently? That's all you've got to say? Tell me, Merlin? Whose job is it to
ensure that my chambers are locked at all times? Whose job is it to ensure that
something like this never happens?!
MERLIN
Sorry.
--
[Arthur stands before Uther. Merlin waits there as well.]
UTHER
You're sorry? That's not good enough. Did they force their way in?
ARTHUR
No, Sire.
UTHER
Then how did they gain access to the vault?
ARTHUR
They stole the keys.
UTHER
How is that possible?!
ARTHUR
Someone broke into my chambers.
UTHER
This is a grievous loss, Arthur. The Crystal of Neahtid was locked away for good
reason.
ARTHUR
Why is it so important?
UTHER
It is an instrument of magic. In the days of the Purge a great many sorcerers died
trying to protect it. Whatever it is, it's important to them.
ARTHUR
I'll search the town, find out what I can.
UTHER
Arthur, this crystal cannot fall into enemy hands.
ARTHUR
Yes, Sire.
--
[Merlin and Arthur walk down the corridor.]
MERLIN
Arthur? Thank you.
ARTHUR
For what exactly?
MERLIN
For...
ARTHUR
Lying to my father to save your worthless hide?
MERLIN
Yes.
ARTHUR
If you ever put me in that position again, I'll clap you in irons myself. And
Merlin, you'd better hope we find that crystal.
--
GAIUS
Morgana stole the crystal?
MERLIN
I'm certain of it. I caught her in Arthur's chambers. She must have taken his keys.
GAIUS
Can you prove any of this?
MERLIN
Not exactly, but...
GAIUS
Merlin.
MERLIN
She did it. I'd bet my life on it.
GAIUS
Merlin, you go accusing the King's ward without proof, that's exactly what you'd be
doing.
MERLIN
I know. You're right.
GAIUS
Doesn't make sense. Why would Morgana steal such a thing?
MERLIN
Uther said it was an instrument of magic.
GAIUS
There are many legends about the Crystal.
MERLIN
Is it some kind of weapon?
GAIUS
That I don't know.
MERLIN
You've heard of it?
GAIUS
Indeed. The sorcerers of the past believed it held the secret of time itself.
MERLIN
What do they mean by that?
GAIUS
I'm not sure. The crystal's an artefact of the Old Religion. There is only one who
could tell you more.
--
MERLIN
I need your help.
KILGHARRAH
I'm sure you do, young warlock, but first you must honour your promise.
MERLIN
I said I would set you free, and I will.
KILGHARRAH
When?
MERLIN
When I know that Camelot is safe. Will you please trust me?
KILGHARRAH
Why should I?
MERLIN
Because you don't have a choice.
KILGHARRAH
What is it that you wish to know?
MERLIN
What is the Crystal of Neahtid?
KILGHARRAH
To those who know how to use it, the Crystal holds great knowledge.
MERLIN
What kind of knowledge.
KILGHARRAH
The knowledge of what is, what has been, and what is yet to come.
MERLIN
Do you mean it can show you the future?
KILGHARRAH
Amongst other things, yes.
MERLIN
The Crystal has been stolen.
KILGHARRAH
By who?
MERLIN
The Lady Morgana.
KILGHARRAH (laughs)
That witch does not have the power to wield the Crystal.
MERLIN
Does the druid boy?
KILGHARRAH
Mordred? It is possible. Why do you ask?
MERLIN
I believe that they're involved in this together.
KILGHARRAH
Once before I warned you of the druid boy. It is his destiny to bring about
Arthur's doom! It may be that time is upon you.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
KILGHARRAH
The ancient prophecies speak of an alliance of Mordred and Morgana united in evil,
but this union must be stopped, whatever the cost.
--
[Gwen turns down Morgana's bed for the night.]
MORGANA
Thank you, Gwen. That'll be all.
GWEN
Nearly done.
MORGANA
It's fine, Gwen. You can go.
GWEN
Won't take a moment.
MORGANA
I said you can go!
GWEN
My Lady.
[Gwen curtsies and leaves. Morgana pulls out the Crystal.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, ALVARR’S CAMP – NIGHT]
[Re-dressed, Morgana sneaks out of Camelot. Merlin follows her to Alvarr's camp.]
MORDRED
Morgana!
[Mordred runs to Morgana and hugs her. Morgana gives the Crystal to Alvarr.]
ALVARR
It's my hope that with time Mordred will master the Crystal. And when he does, we
will strike Uther down. Uther and all who serve him.
MORGANA
All who serve him?
ALVARR
If we are to win this war, there can be no half-measures. I see this troubles you.
MORGANA
Yes. Yes, it does.
ALVARR
My Lady, we fight for our very survival, as do you. The boy. He told me you have
magic. You need not be afraid.
MORGANA
I know. I'm sorry. I've become so used to concealing the truth.
ALVARR
Believe me, I understand what that feels like.
MORGANA
Every day I must look Uther in the eye knowing that if he were to discover who I
really am, he'd have me killed.
ALVARR
You have been very brave.
MORGANA
I don't want to be brave. I just want to be myself. I don't want to be alone
anymore.
ALVARR
You are not alone. You're here with us. You need never be alone again.
[Morgana and Alvarr lean in, but Morgana pulls back.]
MORGANA
I must be heading back. The castle will be waking soon.
ALVARR
Farewell then, My Lady Morgana.
[Morgana leaves.]
MORDRED
Where's Morgana?
ALVARR
She could not stay.
MORDRED
Will we be seeing her again?
ALVARR
Yes, Mordred. You can be sure of that.
ENMYRIA
Nicely done.
[Alvarr grabs Enmyria and pulls her down onto his lap.]
ENMYRIA
You played her well.
ALVARR
It was not hard. She is very beautiful, after all.
[Alvarr and Enmyria kiss.]
--
GAIUS
Alvarr has a fearsome reputation.
MERLIN
You know of him?
GAIUS
I know he's a sorcerer, and that he and his band of renegades have threatened to
overthrow the King.
MERLIN
He sounded pretty determined.
GAIUS
He's a fanatic, and his supporters follow him unthinkingly, blinded by his charisma
MERLIN
Well, it worked on Morgana.
GAIUS
So it would seem.
MERLIN
And the druid boy. Alvarr's using him too. He seems to think the boy can harness
the power of the Crystal.
GAIUS
We can't let this happen, Merlin.
MERLIN
But if we can't go to Uther, what can we do?
GAIUS
We can bend the truth a little.
--
UTHER
You know the whereabouts of the Crystal?
GAIUS
I believe so, Sire.
UTHER
I see. How did you come by this information?
GAIUS
In my capacity as physician I have dealings with many people. They hear things,
Sire, and they see things. Last night I was confronted by one such man who told me
that the Crystal had been stolen by a band of renegades led by a man called Alvarr.
UTHER
Who exactly was this informant?
GAIUS
I think it would only be fair to protect their identity, Sire. If news of the
betrayal were to reach the renegades, it could indeed endanger their life.
UTHER
Very well.
ARTHUR
Where is this Alvarr hiding?
GAIUS
He was last seen in the Valley of [place name: Chemray.], Sire.
UTHER
Summon the guards, Arthur. I want this matter investigated without delay.
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
[Arthur leaves.]
UTHER
Thank you, Gaius. Once again I am in your debt.
--
[Morgana follows Arthur.]
MORGANA
Arthur, you're not seriously thinking of going on this mission, are you?
ARTHUR
No, I'm not thinking of going on this mission. I am going on this mission.
MORGANA
But you're chasing nothing but a rumour.
ARTHUR
True, but for now it's the only lead we have to go on.
MORGANA
You're wasting your time. I assure you.
ARTHUR
Morgana. I never knew you cared.
MORGANA
ARTHUR
I can look after myself, you know. It's a combination of raw talent and hard
training that makes me...
MORGANA
Yes, I know. That makes you so utterly obnoxious.
--
[Morgana rides out at night. Arthur's party rides out the next morning. they pause
on a hillside.]
ARTHUR
Gaius'd better be right about this.
--
[EXT. FOREST, ALVARR’S CAMP – DAY]
[Morgana walks to the camp. Alvarr and his men spring out of hiding, ready to
attack.]
ALVARR
Morgana?
MORGANA
Alvarr.
ALVARR
What brings you here?
MORGANA
Arthur's been sent to capture the Crystal. The knights of Camelot are almost upon
us.
[Alvarr sends his me away and walks with Morgana.]
ALVARR
How has this happened?
MORGANA
I don't know. I only know that we've been betrayed.
ALVARR
How much time do we have?
MORGANA
An hour, maybe two. I cannot say for sure.
ALVARR
Then we must be prepared for them.
MORGANA
What can I do to help?
ALVARR
You can flee while you still have the chance.
[Morgana scoffs.]
ALVARR
Morgana, I am grateful for all that you have done, but a battlefield is no place
for you.
[Alvarr kisses her cheek.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, ALVARR’S CAMP – DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin's party heads to the renegades camp.]
ARTHUR
I don't know why I bring you on these expeditions. You spend the whole time
terrified.
MERLIN
I'm not terrified.
ARTHUR
Yes, you are. I can tell you are.
MERLIN
No you can't.
ARTHUR
If you weren't scared, you'd be talking rubbish as usual.
MERLIN
Well, I am talking rubbish as usual. I mean, I am talking as usual, so clearly I'm
not scared.
[They stop at a fork in the road.]
ARTHUR
Where now?
MERLIN
No idea.
ARTHUR
I thought you said Gaius gave you directions?
MERLIN
He did. He, er...he just didn't tell me about this part.
[Merlin dismounts and listens for telepathy.]
ARTHUR (muffled)
Merlin, this is your fault!
MORDRED (telepathy)
They're coming!
ARTHUR (muffled)
...we wouldn't be here in the first place!
MORDRED (telepathy)
Warn the others.
ARTHUR (muffled)
Merlin, I am talking to you!
MORDRED (telepathy)
...the Crystal. Warn the others!
ALVARR
Morgana...
[Arthur dismounts.]
MORDRED (telepathy)
...the Crystal. Warn the others! They're coming.
ARTHUR
What on earth do you think you're doing?
MERLIN
The renegade camp...
MORDRED
They're coming. Hurry.
MERLIN
It's that way.
ARTHUR
And you know this because...
MERLIN
I know it because...because of...
ARTHUR
I give up.
[Arthur turns to go back to his horse. Merlin magically creates a footprint in the
mud.]
MERLIN
Because of this!
ARTHUR
So? It's a footprint. Who says it belongs to a renegade?
[Merlin magically creates more footprints.]
MERLIN
More.
ARTHUR
Follow me!
[The party sneaks through the woods and finds the camp.]
MERLIN
I told you. Didn't I tell you?
[Arthur’s party sneaks into the camp. Arthur straightens out of his crouch and
sticks his sword in the ground as he checks the campfire.]
ARTHUR
Well, whoever was here, they're not here anymore.
MERLIN
Yes, they are.
[Arrows hit a couple of knights.]
ARTHUR
Take cover!
[The renegades run into the camp. Morgana can hear the battle as she's riding back
to Camelot.]
ALVARR
Run, Mordred!
[Merlin magically extends a branch to trip Mordred. Mordred uses magic to throw
spears at the two guards pursuing him. He smirks, and then looks straight at
Merlin.]
MORDRED
I shall never forgive this, Emrys, and I shall never forget.
[Mordred runs off. Guards check the fallen renegades. Alvarr is the last man
standing. He attacks as Arthur approaches, but Arthur disarms him.]
ARTHUR
Give me the Crystal.
ALVARR
Why should you care?
[Arthur nods for guards to hold Alvarr.]
ALVARR
What use is it to you?
[Arthur starts patting him down.]
ALVARR
You're a fool. How many lives have been lost this day? And for what?
[Arthur takes the crystal.]
ALVARR
You cannot wield the Crystal.
[Arthur walks away.]
ALVARR
You do not have the power! None of you do!
[Arthur pulls out the Crystal as he passes Merlin. Merlin is transfixed by it.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, ALVARR’S CAMP – NIGHT]
[Merlin sits next to a campfire, his head in his hand. Arthur walks over and lies
down next to it.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, check the horses are fed and watered. Merlin?
MERLIN
Sorry.
ARTHUR
Not the right answer.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Something on your mind, is there?
MERLIN
It's just...when we entered the camp...it was a trap, wasn't it? They knew we were
coming.
ARTHUR
Yeah, so?
MERLIN
How did they know?
ARTHUR
Well, they're sorcerer's aren't they? Probably used magic or something. Now, I need
you to guard this with your life.
[Arthur holds out the Crystal in a cloth bag.]
MERLIN
Why me?
ARTHUR
I can hardly very well guard it when I'm asleep, can I?
MERLIN
Neither can I.
ARTHUR
Who said anything about you sleeping?
[Arthur tosses the Crystal to Merlin, who catches it, then drops it on the ground.
Time passes, the fire goes out. Merlin grabs the Crystal, pulls off the cloth bag
and looks into it. He sees the Great Dragon flying, himself surrounded by fire,
Camelot smoking in destruction, the dragon breathing fire, himself crying. He drops
the Crystal and holds his head.]
--
[Alvarr kneels before Uther and the court.]
UTHER
So, you admit to stealing the Crystal of Neahtid?
ALVARR
I do.
UTHER
You admit to plotting against your King?
ALVARR
I do.
UTHER
And you acted alone? You were not aided or abetted by any citizen of Camelot?
ALVARR
I acted alone.
UTHER
Then I find you guilty of treason. You are an enemy of Camelot, Alvarr. You are
sentenced to death.
ALVARR
Then I die with honour. To be an enemy of Camelot is no crime.
UTHER
Take him away.
ALVARR
You, Uther, you are the criminal.
[The court members exit. Morgana waves the guards to leave and shut the door.]
MORGANA
How many more must you kill before you're satisfied?
UTHER
He was guilty. He confessed his crimes. You heard him as well as I.
MORGANA
His only crime was to defy you.
UTHER
Why are you defending this man? He was a sworn foe of Camelot. You know this.
MORGANA
Is it any wonder he wanted you dead? You, who have persecuted his kind day after
day, year after year?
UTHER
I will hear no more of this, Morgana!
MORGANA
Because you're an arrogant fool. You were deaf and blind to the very needs of the
people you profess to serve and protect! The people will tolerate it no longer!
UTHER
I said enough!
MORGANA
They are rising up against you! From this day forward, I do not know you. From this
day forward, I disown you.
[Morgana heads for the door.]
UTHER
You will go to your chambers!
[Morgana pauses at the door and looks at Uther.]
MORGANA
And you, Uther, you will go to hell.
--
[Merlin's stares at his soup.]
GAIUS
Merlin? Is there something interesting in there?
MERLIN
Sorry?
GAIUS
What's the matter.
MERLIN
It's the Crystal. It harbours a terrible power, Gaius.
GAIUS
It's locked away now. It can do no harm. Unless the damage has already been done.
MERLIN
I held it. I knew I shouldn't. I knew no good would come of it, but it compelled me
to look. I couldn't resist it. I saw things, terrible things.
GAIUS
Then you've already paid the price.
MERLIN
But what I saw has not yet come to pass, and I am scared, Gaius. I am really scared
of what the future may hold.
GAIUS
There is nothing on this earth that can know all possible futures, even the
Crystal.
MERLIN
But what I saw, it was so real.
GAIUS
It was real, but it was just one reality. The future is as yet unshaped. It is we
that shape it. It is you, Merlin. The decisions you make. The actions you take.
Remember that. Eat your soup before it gets cold.
--
[Morgana prepares for bed.]
MORGANA
Gwen, could I have my sleeping draught?
GWEN
I didn't think you needed it anymore.
MORGANA
Last night the nightmares returned.
[Gwen fetches the bottle and hands it to Morgana.]
GWEN
Sleep well.
--
[Morgana, now dressed, goes down to the dungeons. The guards stand and bow when she
arrives.]
MORGANA
Please, this is not an official visit. I'd like to see the prisoner, if I may.
GUARD
Sorry, My Lady, the prisoner's to see no one. The King's orders.
MORGANA
That doesn't apply to the King's ward, surely?
GUARD
Thank you. This might help to ease the long night ahead.
[Morgana pulls a pitcher of wine from beneath her cloak and hands it to the guard.]
ALVARR
My Lady. I was not expecting you.
MORGANA
I've come to say goodbye.
ALVARR
It was gracious of you to think of me.
MORGANA
It will not be easy, but you must prepare yourself for what lies ahead.
ALVARR
I am prepared.
MORGANA
I've done what I can to ease your passage.
ALVARR
I could not ask for more.
MORGANA
Good luck. My thoughts will be with you.
ALVARR
Thank you, My Lady.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS/DUNGEONS – NIGHT]
[Morgana waits in her room. Alvarr raises his hand to the cell door.]
ALVARR
Tospringe!
[The door opens. Alvarr sneaks past drugged guards. The one that Morgana spoke with
wakes and grabs Alvarr's leg. Alvarr stabs him. Alvarr exits Camelot. Warning bells
sound.]
--
ARTHUR
We've searched the citadel, the town, and every corner of Camelot.
UTHER
But he's gone?
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
UTHER
How? How has he escaped?
ARTHUR
It appears that the guards were drugged.
UTHER
That means he had help. Someone...
[Uther looks at Morgana who just walked in.]
UTHER
...here in Camelot.
ARTHUR
Afraid it looks that way.
UTHER
Let this be understood, whoever has done this, they have betrayed me. They have
betrayed the kingdom. If I ever discover who it was, they will rue the day they
were born.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER/DRAGON’S CAVE – NIGHT]
KILGHARRAH (telepathy)
Merlin.
[Merlin in his bed.]
I am waiting, Merlin. You gave your word. Now set me free, Merlin.
[Merlin trying to cover his ears and block out the voice.]
Merlin!
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:40
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BBC Merlin: 2x12 The Fires of Idirsholas
KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. IDIRSHOLAS – NIGHT]
[Morgause walks behind tall cobwebbed figures in the chamber of an empty old
castle.]
MORGAUSE
Cnihtas Medhires, éower sáwla sind min sáwla. Onwác and cóm hér eft. Rid eft ond
forsliehð eft. Gehðu, Uther Pendragon!
[Morgause lights a fire in the middle of the circle of figures. The figures begin
to move.]
--
JOSEPH
I'm a herder from the northern plains, Sire. Three nights back, we were camped
beneath the walls of Idirsholas.
UTHER
I'm not sure I would've chosen such a place.
JOSEPH
Good pasture is scarce at this time of year, Sire.
UTHER
And what is it you have to tell me?
JOSEPH
While we were there we, we saw smoke rising from the citadel.
GAIUS
And did you see anything else?
JOSEPH
No.
UTHER
Did you go inside?
JOSEPH
No. Nobody has stepped over that threshold for 300 years! You must know the legend,
Sire.
GAIUS
When the fires of Idirsholas burn, the knights of Medhir will ride again.
UTHER
See to it this man is fed and has a bed for the night. Take a ride out there.
ARTHUR
Why?
UTHER
So we can put people's minds at rest.
ARTHUR
Surely this is superstitious nonsense?
UTHER
Gather the guard and do as I say.
--
MERLIN
Why is Uther so worried?
GAIUS
Because the Knights of Medhir are a force to be reckoned with.
MERLIN
Do you believe the story as well?
GAIUS
It's more than a story, Merlin. Some 300 years ago, seven of Camelot's knights were
seduced by a sorcerer's call. One by one, they succumbed to her power. At her
command, they became a terrifying and brutal force that rode through the lands
leaving death and destruction in their wake.
MERLIN
What happened?
GAIUS
It was only after the sorcerer herself was killed that the Knights of Medhir
finally grew still. Merlin, if what Joseph says is true, then something has awoken
them, and I fear for each and every one of us.
--
[Morgana enters her room and finds her window open and a little box on her window
ledge. she opens it and read the note placed inside.]
"My dearest Morgana,

Meet me tonight after sundown in ...outside the castle gates. I will...the marked
and distinctive...
Until then, keep..."
GWEN
Are you all right?
[Morgana crumples the note.]
MORGANA
Yes, just a little cold.
GWEN
Do you need something warmer?
MORGANA
No, thank you.
--
[Merlin and Arthur's party rides through the woods.]
ARTHUR
What is it, Merlin? Don't tell me you've been listening to Gaius's bedtime stories
again.
MERLIN
I just hope that's all they are.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE/FOREST – NIGHT]
[Morgana sneaks out of the castle at night to meet Morgause in the woods.]
MORGAUSE
You look well.
MORGANA
Thanks to you.
[Morgana touches the enchanted bracelet Morgause gave her.]
MORGANA
I wear it all the time. I can't remember when I last had a bad dream.
MORGAUSE
But you do not seem happy. Why is that?
MORGANA
I would be if I didn't have to pretend.
MORGAUSE
Pretend?
MORGANA
That I'm Uther's loving ward when I hate him.
MORGAUSE
Have you ever imagined a new world, Morgana? One where Uther was no more?
MORGANA
Sometimes.
MORGAUSE
And is that what you'd like?
MORGANA
I once had the chance to be his assassin.
MORGAUSE
And what stopped you?
MORGANA
I don't know. I believe he cared for me. But not anymore. He cares for no one.
MORGAUSE
So, you want Uther destroyed and his reign to end?
MORGANA
More than anything. But it doesn't matter what I want. The future's not of my
making.
MORGAUSE
You are wrong, Morgana. You underestimate your importance. The decisions you make
now will change the shape of everything that is to come.
MORGANA
What do you mean?
MORGAUSE
Whose side are you on, Morgana? Are you with Uther? Or are you with me? Are you
prepared to help me bring about his downfall?
MORGANA
I am.
MORGAUSE
I can't tell me how much it means to hear you say that.
[Morgause's eyes glow and Morgana passes out in Morgause's arms. Morgause lays her
on the ground and begins to draw a circle around Morgana with a stick.]
MORGAUSE
Acene slæp swilce ... Acene slæp swilce ... Acene slæp swilce ...
[Morgana begins to glow.]
--
[Morgana wakes in her bed the next morning.]
GWEN
Morning, My Lady. Morgana. Morgana.
MORGANA
Yes.
GWEN
Did you sleep well? (yawn)
MORGANA
Yes. Better than you, by the looks of it.
GWEN
Sorry. (sigh)
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Uther sits up in bed, sweating.]
UTHER
I have court business that needs attending to.
GAIUS
You have to stay in bed, Sire. You have a fever. I'll prepare a tonic for you. When
did he first fall ill?
SIR LEON
It came on this morning. It's not something to worry about?
GAIUS
No. It will soon pass. Be sure to let me know if there's any change.
--
[INT. IDIRSHOLAS – DAY]
[Arthur's party rides for the fortress and enters the ruins.]
MERLIN
What's that noise?
ARTHUR
What noise?
MERLIN
A sort of trembling sound.
ARTHUR
That's your knees knocking together.
--
[Gwen sits, waiting for Gaius to give her a remedy.]
GAIUS
I fear this contagion is spreading. You're the fifth person I've seen today.
GWEN
I'm sure it's nothing.
[Gaius knocks a potion bottle to the floor, which shatters.]
GAIUS
Damn.
[Gaius bends down.]
GAIUS
Ooh.
[Gaius straightens up.]
GAIUS
I'll pick that up later. I think I might need a little something myself. If I can
ever find what it is I'm looking for.
--
[INT. IDIRSHOLAS – DAY]
[Arthur's party enters the chamber in the fortress where Morgause awoke the knights
at the beginning. Arthur checks the ashes of the fire.]
ARTHUR
It seems part of Joseph's story was true. Probably just travellers passing through.
[Merlin turns his head back toward the entrance.]
MERLIN
Or maybe not.
[Knights of Idirsholas draw their swords. Arthur's party fights the knights. Arthur
runs one through, but it doesn't fall. Fight, stab, repeat. Arthur loses his sword
in an undead knight's gut.]
MERLIN
Arthur!
[Merlin throws Arthur a sword.]
ARTHUR
Run, Merlin! Go!
[Merlin passes Arthur, but then stops.]
ARTHUR
What are you...?! Do as I say!
[Arthur shoves Merlin toward the entrance. Merlin waits in the doorway for Arthur.
Arthur fights his way to the door and faces approaching undead knights.]
MERLIN
Ahríes þæc!
[Merlin pulls Arthur backwards out of the room as the entrance crumbles.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur run into the woods and then stop.]
ARTHUR
What happened to your arm?
MERLIN
Oh, I must have caught in on something.
ARTHUR
Let me see. Your first battle wound. Here.
[Arthur rips off the bottom of his tunic.]
MERLIN
Er, no. No, don't...You'll ruin it.
ARTHUR
Don't worry. You can mend it.
[Arthur wraps Merlin's arm.]
ARTHUR
Did anyone else escape?
ARTHUR
We need to get back to Camelot, gather reinforcements.
--
[Merlin and Arthur dismount at the city entrance where the guards are lying on the
ground.]
MERLIN
Are they dead?
ARTHUR
No. They're breathing.
MERLIN
What's happened to them?
ARTHUR
I don't know.
[They jog into the Square where guards and knights are strewn about.]
ARTHUR
What's going on?
[A horse comes into the Square with a cart, the driver fast asleep.]
MERLIN
I'll get Gaius.
[Merlin jogs into the palace.]
MERLIN
Arthur?!
--
[Arthur runs in after Merlin. People are passed out on the staircase.]
MERLIN
They're all fast asleep. Must be some kind of sickness.
ARTHUR
Where's my father?
--
[Arthur rushes in, but it’s empty.]
ARTHUR
Where is he?!
--
[Merlin runs in.]
MERLIN
Gaius!
[Gaius is asleep on his work table.]
MERLIN
It must be the work of magic.
ARTHUR
We have to find my father!
[Arthur and Merlin pass Morgana's Chambers and go inside. Arthur notices Gwen lying
on the floor and moves her to the bed. they hear the curtain behind them move.
Arthur draws his sword and pulls Morgana out from behind it.]
ARTHUR
*shout*
MORGANA
*scream*
ARTHUR
It's me! It's me, Morgana! What's happened?
MORGANA
I didn't know it was you!
ARTHUR
Calm down, Morgana. Just tell me what happened.
MORGANA
People were complaining, saying they weren't feeling well.
ARTHUR
And what then?
MORGANA
They started falling asleep. Everyone, everywhere I went.
ARTHUR
Was someone here?
MORGANA
*shakes head*
ARTHUR
Then why were you hiding?
MORGANA
I told you, I didn't know who you were.
ARTHUR
Where's my father?
MORGANA
I don't know.
MERLIN
Arthur, she's distressed.
ARTHUR
If she was awake then she must have seen something.
MORGANA
I didn't see anything.
ARTHUR
You saw people getting sick, what did you do?
MORGANA
What could I do?
ARTHUR
Morgana, I don't understand. Why is it that you're the only person awake?
--
[Knights of Medhir ride out from Idirsholas. Arthur, Merlin, and Morgana walk down
the corridor.]
MERLIN
Don't worry, I won't say anything.
MORGANA
About what?
MERLIN
The illness.
MORGANA
That has nothing to do with me.
MERLIN
No, of course not, but you have magic.
MORGANA
You haven't told anyone that!
MERLIN
No, and I won't tell Arthur, but...there must be something keeping you safe, and I
think that must be it.
MORGANA
Right.
ARTHUR (distant)
I found him!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBERS –DAY]
[Arthur lifts his father from his slumped position over the table.]
ARTHUR
Father.
MERLIN
See, he's all right.
ARTHUR
He is not "all right".
MERLIN
He's just asleep. All we have to do is find the cure. A way to wake them.
ARTHUR
Who could have done this? You're the only one who's hot been affected, Morgana.
There must be a reason.
MORGANA
I don't know.
ARTHUR
That's all you keep saying! You must know something!
MORGANA
No, they just fell asleep one by one!
MERLIN
It's obvious. When she started feeling sick, Gaius gave her a potion, right?
ARTHUR
When was she sick? She never said that.
MERLIN
She was one of the last to be affected. Somehow the potion must have helped.
ARTHUR
What about everyone else?
MERLIN
By then Gaius was too ill. He didn't have a chance to treat anyone else.
ARTHUR
Go and see if you can find this potion. I'll search for signs of life in the lower
town. Morgana, you stay here. You look after my father. Keep him safe. Here.
Protect him with your life, you understand?
--
[Morgause meets her undead knights in the woods. They dismount and bow before her.]
--
[Merlin flips through magic book.]
MERLIN
All right, Gaius, this is going to wake you. Ic ácwice þé.
[Gaius springs up with a goofy grin.]
MERLIN
Gaius!
[Gaius has a blank stare.]
MERLIN
Gaius? All right. Er...
[Merlin flips pages in the magic book.]
MERLIN
Oh. We could try this. Ic þé bebíede þæt þú mé slæpest!
[Gaius's chair collapses and he ends up on the floor.]
MERLIN
Well, maybe not. Er...(sigh) Oh, come on, Gaius. I need you to wake up.
[Gaius still staring forward with a silly grin.]
MERLIN
I really need your help.
[Merlin flips through the book.]
MERLIN
Ah, here we go. Brimstréam!
[The spell splashes water in Gaius's face.]
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Merlin snaps the book shut.]
ARTHUR
Come quickly!
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS/LOWER TOWN – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur watch from the battlements as eight riders head for Camelot.]
MERLIN
According to the legend there were only seven nights of Medhir.
ARTHUR
Then who's the extra rider?
MERLIN
I don't know. Camelot is defenceless.
ARTHUR
We have to get back to my father.
[Medhir riders pass through the lower town.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER’S CHAMBERS – DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur return.]
ARTHUR
This will be one of the first places they look. We have to get him somewhere else.
MORGANA
What's going on?
ARTHUR
We're under attack. No time to explain. Grab his legs, carry him. You're not meant
to be sweeping the floor with him! Pick his feet up!
MERLIN
His feet aren't the problem.
ARTHUR
Morgana, give him a hand.
[The riders cross the drawbridge.]
--
[Merlin grins as Uther snores while they drag him through the corridor.]
ARTHUR
It is not funny, Merlin. Did you find the potion Morgana took?
MERLIN
Er...no.
[The riders dismount in the square.]
--
[Arthur, Merlin, and Morgana drag Uther into the room. Merlin and Morgana drop his
legs.]
ARTHUR
We can't leave him here! We have to lift him onto the bed.
MERLIN
Why? He's asleep. He's not going to know.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
Well...I'll get him a pillow.
ARTHUR
He's the King!
MERLIN
All right. Two pillows.
[Merlin and Arthur put pillows under Uther's head. Arthur staggers as he stands
up.]
MERLIN You alright?
ARTHUR Are you feeling the same?
MERLIN We're getting sick.
[Merlin looks at Morgana who's still fine.]
ARTHUR
We can't let that happen. We must keep my father hidden.
MERLIN
Why don't we disguise him?
ARTHUR
That might just work.
MERLIN
We could dress him as a woman.
ARTHUR
That, on the other hand...
MERLIN
We could dress him as a servant.
ARTHUR
That's better.
MERLIN
I'll get him some clothes.
ARTHUR
Are you alright, Morgana? You seem quiet.
MORGANA
I'm fine.
ARTHUR
You sure? I can always tell when you're lying. Don't worry. I won't let any harm
come to him.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDORS/DRAGON’S CAVE – DAY]
[Merlin hides from the undead knights wandering through the castle. He goes to the
Dragon's Cave.]
MERLIN
What's going on?! Why is everyone asleep?!
KILGHARRAH
*pretend snoring*
MERLIN
Please not you as well. I need your help! What am I going to do?! Don't pretend. I
know you're listening to me.
KILGHARRAH (yawn)
I don't need to listen to you, Merlin. You always say the same thing: "Help me".
And yet you refuse to give anything in return. Now you will face the consequence of
that decision. Camelot's end is nigh, and there's nothing you can do about it.
MERLIN
I know I promised to free you, and I will!
KILGHARRAH
Hahahaha.
MERLIN
I will! I promise!
KILGHARRAH
I no longer trust your promises.
MERLIN
I swear on my mother's life!
KILGHARRAH
Careful what you say.
MERLIN
You have to help me. Please?
KILGHARRAH
Her life matters more to you than your own. This is an oath I believe you will
honour.
MERLIN
I will.
KILGHARRAH
It is one thing to cast a spell that puts everyone to sleep. The power to maintain
it is a very different matter. It will need more than just words to break this
enchantment.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
KILGHARRAH
You must eradicate the source, Merlin.
MERLIN
Great. What is that?
KILGHARRAH
Not what, but who. Such spells need a vessel, a constant living presence to give
them strength. The source of this pestilence is the witch, the Lady Morgana.
MERLIN
Can't be.
KILGHARRAH
I have warned you about her in the past, but you have failed to take heed. She is
dangerous!
MERLIN (sigh)
No.
KILGHARRAH
And now she has chosen to turn her back on her own.
MERLIN
How do I stop her?
KILGHARRAH
That is easy, young warlock. You must kill her.
MERLIN (whisper)
No!
KILGHARRAH
The spell is woven with magic of such power that even you are not immune. You must
act now before it's too late. If you do not, then Camelot will fall and Arthur will
die, and the future you were destined to share will die with you.
--
[Merlin grabs clothes, a water skin, and a bottle of Hemlock.]
--
[Merlin runs down the corridor. Arthur grabs him and pulls him into an alcove.]
ARTHUR
MERLIN
I didn't know Uther's size.
[Merlin and Arthur hear undead breathing, so they peek around the other side of the
alcove to see Morgause walking down the corridor with the undead knights. Furious!
Arthur tries to pull his sword, but Merlin stops him.]
--
[Merlin enters.]
MORGANA
I was worried about you.
MERLIN
They're here! They're in the castle!
MORGANA
Where's Arthur?
MERLIN
Gone to find somewhere safe to move to.
MORGANA
Thank you for not saying anything to him.
MERLIN
It's all right.
MORGANA
You're a good friend.
[Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
We have to move my father before Morgause gets here.
MORGANA
Morgause!
ARTHUR
Come on! Let's go!
MERLIN
You're not surprised?
MORGANA
No, I am.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, SERVANT’S CHAMBER – DAY]
[They drag Uther into a servant's chamber.]
ARTHUR
Should be safe in here for a while.
[They drop Uther on the low bed. Merlin and Arthur sit down while Morgana stands at
the window unaffected by the spell.]
ARTHUR
Must be the potion Gaius gave her.
MERLIN
Yeah, must be the potion.
ARTHUR
We can't keep this up much longer.
MERLIN
I know. Wait. We're in a servant's quarters. If we leave him here, they'll just
think he's a servant.
ARTHUR
Not if Morgause sees him. We need to get him out of Camelot.
MERLIN
When we arrived there was a cart in the main square, remember?
ARTHUR
You are full of good ideas today, Merlin. You go and look.
--
[Merlin looks out a window at the cart in the square. Merlin is attacked by an
undead knight in the corridor.]
MERLIN
Atres!
[The spell throws the knight against the wall. Merlin flees. It gets back up.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, SERVANT’S CHAMBER – DAY]
[Merlin runs into the servant's chamber.]
MERLIN
They're closing in! We won't make it to the cart, not carrying Uther.
ARTHUR
That's why we've made this. We're gonna pull him.
[Arthur peeks out of the servant's chamber at an undead knight, closes the door,
draws sword and hides behind a column.]
ARTHUR
Get down. Keep quiet.
[Merlin and Morgana hide. behind another column. undead knight enters and Arthur
attacks.]
ARTHUR
Protect the King! Get him out of here!
[Merlin and Morgana drag Uther out of the room and down the Upper Corridor. an
undead knight pursues them. Morgana trips and falls.]
MORGANA
Merlin!
[Merlin pauses and then keeps dragging the King.]
MORGANA
Please!
[The knight goes to strike her. Morgana screams and cowers on the floor. The undead
knight stops and looks at her, then goes after Merlin. Merlin drags Uther down Red
Ribbon Corridor. He's about to use magic against the knight, but Arthur jumps in to
fight it and kicks it down a spiral set of stairs.]
--
[They enter.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, help me.
[Merlin and Arthur bar the door.]
ARTHUR
Morgana, we need the remedy that Gaius gave you. Morgana.
MORGANA
I don't have it.
ARTHUR
I know that, but you must remember what it was, what was in it? Come on, Morgana!
We can't keep going much longer! Think!
MORGANA
I'm sorry! I...
MERLIN
It doesn't matter. We can't get it now anyway, we're trapped.
ARTHUR
There has to be something we can do!
MERLIN (whisper)
Why didn't that knight kill you?
MORGANA
How do I know? Because I'm a woman?
MERLIN
Yeah, maybe.
ARTHUR
Unless we can rid ourselves of this sickness, then I don't see how we're going to
hold out.
MERLIN
We have to destroy the source of the magic.
ARTHUR
Which is?
MERLIN
I don't know.
ARTHUR
Our only chance is to get out of Camelot. Help me with my father. You cut the
blanket up. We'll tie it to my father, and we'll lower him onto the cart.
MORGANA
Arthur...
ARTHUR
Morgana, please just do as I say. I'll fetch the cart 'round to the window.
MERLIN
You're going out there? I'll come with you.
ARTHUR
No. No, you stay. You protect my father.
MERLIN
You won't reach the cart alone. It's suicide.
ARTHUR
We have no choice.
MERLIN
How you feeling?
ARTHUR
Not bad.
MERLIN
You sure?
ARTHUR
Yeah, you?
MERLIN
Never better.
ARTHUR
Get me a pillow, could you.
MERLIN
Don't mess around. Arthur you... Arthur? You need to stay awake.
[Arthur begins to fall asleep leaning against the door. Merlin smacks him.]
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
That's better!
ARTHUR
If you ever do that again...
MERLIN
Well, don't fall asleep, then!
[Arthur takes the water skin from Merlin and splashes his face with it. the undead
knights growl outside the door.]
ARTHUR
That your knees again?
[Arthur and Merlin unbar the door.]
ARTHUR
If I need a servant in the next life...
MERLIN
Don't ask me.
ARTHUR
Ha-ha!
[Arthur draws his sword and jumps out into the corridor. Merlin re-bars the door.]
MORGANA
He's not going to survive out there.
MERLIN
I know.
MORGANA
We've got to do something.
MERLIN
I know.
[Arthur fights outside. Merlin and Morgana take Uther's dragging cloth.]
MERLIN
Here. You tear this up. I'll make some rope.
[Merlin poisons the water skin.]
MERLIN
Here, have some water.
MORGANA
I'm not thirsty.
MERLIN
If we get out of here, you may not get another chance to drink.
MORGANA
If we get out of here.
[Merlin hands her the water skin, but she puts it down. Arthur fights in the
corridor. Merlin picks up the water skin and pretends to drink.]
MERLIN
Here.
MORGANA
I'm fine.
MERLIN
No, you have some before I finish it.
MORGANA (sigh)
Thank you.
[Morgana drinks. She begins to have trouble breathing. looks at the skin and then
at Merlin. Merlin wipes his eyes and then turns to face her. Morgause notices
something's wrong. Merlin tries to hold Morgana as she struggles to breathe.
Morgause begins to hold her throat like Morgana. she blows the council chamber door
open and rushes to Morgana, taking her from Merlin's arms.]
MORGAUSE
What has he done to you?
MERLIN
I had to.
MORGAUSE
You poisoned her!
MERLIN
You gave me no choice.
MORGAUSE
Tell me what you used and I can save her.
MERLIN
First, stop the attack!
MORGAUSE
You're nothing but a simple servant! You don't tell me what to do!
MERLIN
If you want to know what poison it is, you will undo the magic that drives the
knights!
MORGAUSE
Tell me the poison or you'll die!
MERLIN
Then she'll die with me. I don't want this any more than you, but you give me no
choice. Stop the knights and you can save her.
[Arthur is still fighting undead knights.]
MORGAUSE
Astýre ús þanonweard! Cnihtas Medhires, éower sáwla. Rid eft ond forsliehð eft.
[The knights drop in front of Arthur. Merlin hands Morgause the hemlock bottle.
Arthur bursts in with other knights of Camelot.]
ARTHUR
What have you done with my father?
MERLIN
He's safe!
[Uther wakes up on the floor.]
ARTHUR
Morgana!
MORGAUSE
Keep away from her! Bedyrne ús! Astýre ús þanonweard!
[Morgause and Morgana disappear in a windy cloud of smoke.]
--
[Uther looks at Morgana's jewellery. Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
I couldn't find you. Are you alright?
UTHER
Is there still no sign of her?
ARTHUR
We've looked, Father.
UTHER
Morgause must not be allowed to get away with this.
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
UTHER
Arthur. I haven't had a chance to say thank you.
ARTHUR
I failed, Father. I should have protected Morgana.
UTHER
No. That was my duty. Her loss will forever my on my conscience, not yours.
--
GAIUS
You did the right thing.
MERLIN
You don't mean that. Morgana was your friend, too. You cared about her.
GAIUS
I did. But I fear that, unlike you, Morgana chose not to use her gift for good. You
had no choice. Would be sitting here now if you had not made that decision?
[Merlin gets up.]
GAIUS
MERLIN
I'll eat that later.
GAIUS
Merlin?
MERLIN
There's something I have to do.
[Merlin goes to his room to fetch a sword and heads to Dragon's Cave.]
KILGHARRAH (voiceover flashback)

You must steal a sword from the Knights of Medhir. Their blades were forged by the
Old Religion. If you harness its power to your own, you will have the strength to
break the chains with which Uther Pendragon keeps me prisoner.
[The dragon flies down to Merlin.]
KILGHARRAH
The time has come, young warlock.
MERLIN
Where will you go?
KILGHARRAH
I am the last of my kind. There is but one road I can take.
MERLIN
KILGHARRAH
You will see.
[Merlin climbs down the steps to the base of the dragon's giant chain.]
MERLIN
Before I do this, you promise me that you will not harm Camelot.
KILGHARRAH
I think there have been enough bargains, don't you?
MERLIN
Ic bebeode þisne sweord þæt hé forcierfe þá bende þæra dracan. Un clýse!
[Merlin swings the sword and breaks the chain. The dragon roars and flies away.]
-----------------------------------------------
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November 30 2010, 23:41
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BBC Merlin: 2x13 The Last Dragonlord
KILGHARRAH
--
[People run through the square screaming, surrounded by burning rubble. Arthur and
his knights run past with crossbows.]
ARTHUR
I know you're tired, but make one last effort for me! Every shot must count!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, INFIRMARY – NIGHT]
GWEN
I don't think people can suffer a third night of this.
GAIUS
We must trust in Arthur.
GWEN
I do. But even he has little chance.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS – NIGHT]
[Merlin walks with Arthur.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry you're having to do this.
ARTHUR
Why? You're not to blame.
[The dragon approaches.]
ARTHUR
Flame up!
[The knights light their arrows and take aim.]
ARTHUR
Stay strong! For tonight is not your night to die, I will make sure of that! Hold
firm! Hold! Hold! Now!
[The knights shoot arrows. dragon flames the battlements and they all duck.]
--
GWEN
We've no clean water left.
GAIUS
I know, but it's too dangerous to go out there.
[Gwen heads for the door anyway.]
GAIUS
Gwen! Don't!
--
[Gwen takes a bucket to the well in the Square, stepping over the rubble while
everyone else flees. dragon flies overhead. she begins to draw from the well.
Arthur enters the Square, watching the dragon circle above.]
ARTHUR
Clear the square!
[Arthur notices Gwen drawing from the well.]
ARTHUR
Gwen?!
[Arthur looks up at the dragon as it starts to turn for an attack.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere!
[Gwen turns and sees her peril. She runs, Arthur runs to help her. Dragon swoops
and catches Arthur, causing both of them to fall. Arthur grabs Gwen's hand and they
run for cover. Merlin jogs out into the square.]
MERLIN
Fluge! Gár!
[Merlin throws a magical spear at dragon. it glances off.]

KILGHARRAH
Do not imagine that your petty magic can harm me!
MERLIN
Why are you doing this?! You're killing innocent people!
--
[Gwen treats Arthur's shoulder/chest wound in the infirmary.]
GWEN
You shouldn't've risked your life.
ARTHUR
I wasn't going to let anything happen to you.
[Gwen reaches to put the towel down, but Arthur catches her hand and presses it
against his chest, covering it with his hand. She smiles. Gaius notices and smiles
at the pair. Merlin approaches him.]
GAIUS
Are you hurt?
MERLIN
There's nothing I can do. My magic is no good. It doesn't work.
GAIUS
Dragons aren't monsters. They're creatures of wonder and magic. You must realise
that they're immune to your powers.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, WAR ROOM – DAY]
[Arthur, Uther, knights, and advisors meet.]
ARTHUR
The dead number 49 men, 27 women, a further 18 women and children are unaccounted
for. Most of last night's fires are now out. The castle walls, in particular, the
western section are near to collapse, I could go on.
UTHER
Do we have any further idea on how the beast escaped?
SIR LEON
I regret to say, Sire, we don't.
UTHER
There must be some way to rid ourselves of this aberration. Gaius?
GAIUS
We need a dragonlord, Sire.
UTHER
You know very well that's not an option.
GAIUS
Sire, what if...there was, indeed, one last dragonlord left.
UTHER
That's not possible
GAIUS
But if there was.
UTHER
GAIUS
It may just be rumour.
UTHER
Go on.
GAIUS
I'm not exactly sure, but I think his name is Balinor.
UTHER
Balinor?
ARTHUR
Where does he live?
GAIUS
He was last seen in Cenred's kingdom in the border town of [place name: Enged.],
but that was many years ago.
ARTHUR
If this man still exists, then it is our duty to find him.
UTHER
Our treaty with Cenred no longer holds. We are at war. If they discovered you
beyond our border, they would kill you.
ARTHUR
I will go alone.
UTHER
No.
ARTHUR
That way I will not be detected.
UTHER
No, Arthur. It is too dangerous.
ARTHUR
More dangerous than staying here? I'll not stand by and watch my men die when I
have the chance to save them.
UTHER
I have given you my orders.
ARTHUR
Do not make this a test of wills, Father.
UTHER
I'm not talking to you as a father, I'm talking to you as a king!
ARTHUR
I will ride immediately.
UTHER
My concern is for you.
ARTHUR
Mine is for Camelot. I'll send word when I've found him. [to Merlin.] Prepare the
horses.
[Merlin bows to Uther and follows Arthur out.]
--
[Merlin packs for their journey.]
MERLIN
Who were the dragonlords? Gaius?
[Merlin pulls Gaius out of his contemplative pacing.]
GAIUS
There were once men who could talk to the dragons, tame them.
MERLIN
What happened to them?
GAIUS
Uther believed that the art of the dragonlord was too close to magic. So he had
them all rounded up and slaughtered.
MERLIN
But one survived. How did you know?
GAIUS
I helped him escape.
MERLIN
Gaius.
GAIUS
Merlin, you've never heard the name Balinor?
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
Your mother never mentioned him?
MERLIN
My mother?
GAIUS
She took him in.
MERLIN
She stood up against Uther?
GAIUS
Yes.
MERLIN
She was brave.
GAIUS
Yes. When Uther discovered where Balinor was, he sent knights to Ealdor to hunt him
down. He was forced to flee.
MERLIN
Why didn't my mother tell me any of this?
GAIUS
Merlin, I promised her I would never speak of these things.
MERLIN
Of what?
GAIUS
I've always treated you as my son, but that is not what you are. The man you are
going to look for is your father.
MERLIN
My father?
GAIUS
Yes.
MERLIN
He was a dragonlord? Why did no one ever tell me?!
GAIUS
I wanted to. Your mother feared it would be too dangerous.
MERLIN
I had a right to know!
GAIUS
She wanted to protect you.
MERLIN
No. I had a right to know.
--
[Gaius approaches Merlin in the Square as Merlin prepares his horse.]
GAIUS
You got everything you need?
MERLIN (nods)
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to...
GAIUS
I know that.
ARTHUR
Come on, Merlin.
MERLIN
You're ready?
ARTHUR
No thanks to you.
[Arthur cringes from his wound.]
MERLIN
You okay?
ARTHUR
It's just a scratch.
[Arthur trots off.]
GAIUS
Merlin, whatever happens, you must not let Arthur know who this man is. Uther would
view the son of a dragonlord with the deepest suspicion.
--
[Merlin and Arthur ride through the woods and pause at the top of a hill
overlooking a village.]
ARTHUR
This is it. One more step and We're in Cenred's kingdom. This Balinor better be
worth it.
--
[INT. TAVERN INN – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin arrive in the village at night in the pouring rain. they enter a
tavern and everyone stops to stare at them.]
ARTHUR
Greetings!
[A man pulls a knife out of a table.]
--
[INT. TAVERN INN – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin sit at a table and the innkeeper slops their drinks all over the
table.]
ARTHUR
We're looking for a man named Balinor. I'm willing to pay...
[Arthur slaps a bag of coins in front of the innkeeper.]
ARTHUR
...handsomely.
[The innkeeper nods and leans in.]
INNKEEPER
Never heard of him.
[The innkeeper only takes the few coins Arthur already had on the end of the
table.]
MERLIN
You think one of these men is Balinor?
ARTHUR
I hope not.
MERLIN
So do I.
--
[INT. TAVERN INN, GUEST CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin getting ready for bed.]
ARTHUR
What is wrong with you today?
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
It pains me to admit it, but I do enjoy your surly retorts. In fact, it's probably
your only redeemable feature.
MERLIN
Thanks.
ARTHUR
There are loads of servants who can serve. So few are capable of making a complete
prat of themselves. What is it?
MERLIN
Nothing.
ARTHUR
It's something. Tell me. Alright, I know I'm a prince, so we can't be friends. But
if I wasn't a prince...
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Well, then...I think we'd probably get on.
MERLIN
So?
ARTHUR
So at least can you tell me?
MERLIN
Well, that's true. But you see, if you weren't a prince, I'd tell you to mind your
own damn business.
ARTHUR
Merlin. Are you missing Gaius.
MERLIN
Something like that.
ARTHUR
Well, what is it, then?
[Arthur throws a pillow at Merlin.]
MERLIN
I'll tell you. I'm worried about everyone back in Camelot. I hope they're alright.
ARTHUR
So do I.
--
[EXT. KING'S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - NIGHT]
[Leon heads the knights against the dragon back in Camelot.]
SIR LEON
Hold! Hold! Hold! Now!
[They shoot at the Great Dragon. The dragon blows fire. The knights hunch down and
overlap their shields against the flames. Uther watches from his chambers.]
--
[INT. TAVERN INN, GUEST CHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Someone sneaks into the room and reaches for Arthur's bag. Arthur grabs the man's
hand and throws him onto Merlin's bed at knifepoint. Merlin wakes.]
MERLIN
What's going on?
ARTHUR
Do you know what the punishment is for theft?
ASGERD
No, please. I've got children to feed.
ARTHUR
Tell me where to find Balinor.
ASGERD
Balinor?
ARTHUR
What do you know of him?
ASGERD
Nothing. I...
ARTHUR
Do you value your life?
ASGERD
It's been many years since I saw him!
ARTHUR
You know where he lives?
ASGERD
You must travel through the Forest of [place name: Marendred.] to the foot of
[place name: Feyora.] Mountain. There you will find the cave where Balinor dwells.
[Arthur releases Asgerd.]
ASGERD
But don't get your hopes up.
MERLIN
Why?
ASGERD
He will not welcome you. Balinor hates everyone and everything. A cave's the best
place for him.
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur walking their horses through the woods, Arthur stumbling a bit.
Merlin notices.]
ARTHUR
It's all right.
MERLIN
No, it's the wound. Let me have a look.
[A branch snaps as Merlin's looking at Arthur's wounded shoulder.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Get down! Get down!
[Merlin pulls him down to hide behind a fallen tree. Cenred's men pass by.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Arthur? (shakes him) Arthur?
[Arthur has passed out.]
--
[EXT/INT. BALINOR'S CAVE - DAY]
[Arthur is slung over his horse as Merlin guides them to Balinor's cave. Merlin
leaves Arthur for a bit as he enters Balinor's cave.]
MERLIN
Hello?!
[Balinor grabs him from behind.]
BALINOR
What do you want here, boy?
[Balinor lets him go and Merlin stares at his father.]
MERLIN
My friend, he's sick! He needs help!
BALINOR
Show me, boy.
[Merlin keeps staring.]
BALINOR
What are you waiting for? Fetch him!
--
[INT. BALINOR'S CAVE - NIGHT]
[Balinor treats Arthur's wound.]
BALINOR
Ahlúttre þá séocnes. Þurh- hæle bræd. He needs rest.
MERLIN
Will he be alright?
BALINOR
By morning.
MERLIN
Thank you.
--
[INT. BALINOR'S CAVE - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Balinor eating dinner.]
MERLIN
Looks good. How long have you lived here?
BALINOR
A few winters.
MERLIN
Must be hard.
BALINOR
Why are you here?
MERLIN
Just travelling. We're looking for someone. I was told, well...they said that he
lived somewhere hereabouts. A man named Balinor. You never heard of him? He was a
dragonlord.
BALINOR
He's passed on.
MERLIN
You knew him?
BALINOR
Who are you?!
MERLIN
I'm...Merlin.
BALINOR
And him?
[Balinor points at Arthur.]

MERLIN
He's my master.
BALINOR
His name!
MERLIN
His name is Lancelot. He's a knight. You know, a nice one.
BALINOR
His name is Arthur Pendragon. He is Uther's son.
MERLIN
Yes.
BALINOR
This is Cenred's kingdom. He's asking for trouble. What do you want from me?
MERLIN
Are you Balinor? The Great Dragon is attacking Camelot.
BALINOR
His name is Kilgharrah.
MERLIN
Well, we can't stop him. Only you, a dragonlord, can.
BALINOR
He doesn't act blindly. He kills for a reason. Vengeance. This is of Uther's
making.
MERLIN
But he's killing innocent people. Women and children.
BALINOR
Uther pursued me! He hunted me like an animal!
MERLIN
I know.
BALINOR
What do you know about anybody's life, boy?! Uther asked me to use my power to
bring the last dragon to Camelot. He said he wanted to make peace with it, but he
did not! He lied to me! He betrayed me! You want me to protect this man?
MERLIN
I want you to protect Camelot.
BALINOR
He killed every one of my kind! I alone escaped!
MERLIN
Where did you go?
BALINOR
There's a place called Ealdor.
MERLIN
Yes.
BALINOR
I had a life there. A woman. A good woman. Ealdor is beyond Uther's realm, but
still he pursued me. Why would he not let me be? What was it that I had done that
he wanted to destroy the life I built, abandon the woman I loved? He sent knights
to kill me. I was forced to come here, to this! So, I understand how Kilgharrah
feels. He's lost every one of his kind, every one of his kin. You want to know how
that feels? Look around, boy. Let Uther die. Let Camelot fall.
MERLIN
You want everyone in Camelot to die?
BALINOR
Why should I care?
MERLIN
What if one of them was your son?
BALINOR
I don't have a son.
MERLIN
And if I told you...
ARTHUR
Merlin. Merlin. (cough)
--
[EXT. BALINOR'S CAVE - DAY]
[Merlin watches his father by the mouth of the cave. Arthur comes out of the cave.]
ARTHUR
I feel great! What the hell did you give me?
MERLIN
It was all down to Balinor.
ARTHUR
So we found him, then? Thank heaven for that.
MERLIN
That doesn't mean he's willing to help.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
You won't persuade him.
ARTHUR
Does he know what's at stake?
[Merlin nods.]
ARTHUR
What kind of man is he?
MERLIN
I don't know. I thought he'd be something more.
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN/KING'S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS - DAY]
[People of Camelot carry buckets of water through the lower town to put out the
fires from the night before. Gwen gazes across Camelot from the battlements with
tear-stained cheeks. Gaius joins her.]
GAIUS
You missing Morgana? She's stronger than people think. I believe that, wherever she
is, she'll be alright.
GWEN
And Arthur?
GAIUS
You care a lot for him, don't you?
GWEN
Everyone does.
GAIUS
I think he cares the same way about you. It's alright, I won't tell anyone.
GWEN
I know we can never be.
GAIUS
Oh...the world's a strange place, Guinevere. Never underestimate the power of love.
I've seen it change many things.
--
[EXT. BALINOR'S CAVE - DAY]
[Arthur walks back to Merlin after talking to Balinor.]
MERLIN
What did he say?
ARTHUR
He'll change his mind.
MERLIN
He said that?
ARTHUR
Just...give him a moment.
BALINOR
Farewell, then.
ARTHUR
That's your decision?
BALINOR
I will not help Uther.
ARTHUR
Then the people of Camelot are damned.
BALINOR
So be it.
ARTHUR
Have you no conscience?!
BALINOR
You should ask that question of your father!
MERLIN
And you are no better than him!
ARTHUR
Don't waste your time, Merlin!
MERLIN
Gaius spoke of the nobility of dragonlords! Clearly he was wrong!
BALINOR
Gaius?
MERLIN
Yes.
BALINOR
A good man.
MERLIN
Yeah. I was hoping you'd be like him.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
I wanted to...
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
Well, there's no point.
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin ride off, then set up camp in the woods.]
ARTHUR
I always thought that silence would be a blessing with you, but I find it just as
irritating. You're a riddle, Merlin.
MERLIN
A riddle?
ARTHUR
Yes. But I've got to quite like you.
MERLIN
Yeah?
ARTHUR
Now I realise you're not as big a fool as you look.
MERLIN
Yeah, I feel the same. Now that I realise you're not as arrogant as you sound.
ARTHUR
You still think I'm arrogant?
MERLIN
No. More...supercilious.
ARTHUR
That's a big word, Merlin. You sure you know what it means?
MERLIN
Condescending.
ARTHUR
Very good.
MERLIN
Patronising.
ARTHUR
It doesn't quite mean that.
MERLIN
No, these are other things you are.
ARTHUR
Hang on!
MERLIN
Over bearing.
[Arthur hears a twig snap and picks up his sword.]
ARTHUR
Shh.
MERLIN
Very overbearing.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
But you wanted me to talk.
[Merlin hears another twig snap. Merlin picks up a sword and follows Arthur. They
hear trees move behind them and turn around.]
BALINOR
Careful, boy. I thought you might need some help. This is dangerous country.
ARTHUR
And will you return to Camelot with us?
BALINOR
You were right, Merlin. There are some in Camelot who risked their lives for me. I
owe a debt that must be repaid.
ARTHUR
If you succeed in killing the dragon, you will not go unrewarded.
BALINOR (scoff)
I seek no reward.
ARTHUR
Great! Let's eat.
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Merlin and Balinor collect firewood.]
MERLIN
This wood's too wet.
BALINOR
Don't worry. I'm sure we'll find a way to make it light.
MERLIN
When you healed Arthur, I heard you mumble some words.
BALINOR
An ancient prayer.
MERLIN
I thought it might've been more than that.
BALINOR
The Old Religion can teach us many things.
MERLIN
The Old Religion. Is that something you were taught?
BALINOR
It's not something you can learn. Either it's a part of you, or it isn't. My father
knew that, and his father before him.
MERLIN
Were they also dragonlords?
BALINOR
We'll need some kindling.
MERLIN
You mentioned...You spoke of Ealdor. You took refuge with a woman.
BALINOR
That was a long time ago.
MERLIN
I grew up there.
BALINOR
Ealdor?
MERLIN
Yes. I know the woman.
BALINOR
Hunith? She's still alive?
MERLIN
Yes. She's my mother.
BALINOR
Then she married. That's good.
MERLIN
She never married. I'm your son.
BALINOR
I don't know what it is to have a son.
MERLIN
Or I a father.
[Merlin hears something snap and sees Arthur walking close by.]
MERLIN
You must not tell Arthur.
[Balinor hands Merlin some firewood and they smile at one another.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, CAMP - NIGHT]
[Arthur sleeps as Merlin and Balinor sit by the campfire. Balinor whittles some
wood.]
MERLIN
Why did you never return?
BALINOR
I thought her life would be better without me.
MERLIN
Why?
BALINOR
Uther wanted me dead. If he'd found me, he'd have killed me, and your mother. I
wanted her to be safe.
MERLIN
We could've come with you.
BALINOR
What kind of life would you have had here?
MERLIN
We'd have been...happy. When we've finished in Camelot, I will take you to Ealdor.
BALINOR
She won't recognise me. I see her in you.
MERLIN
Yeah?
BALINOR
You have her kindness.
MERLIN
How did you become a dragonlord?
BALINOR
You don't choose to become a dragonlord. It's not something you're taught. It's a
sacred gift. For thousands of years it's been handed down from father to son. And
that is what you must now become, Merlin.
MERLIN
I would like that.
BALINOR
And like all dragonlords, you won't know for sure that you have that power until
you face your first dragon. You should get some sleep. We've a big day ahead of us.
Goodnight, Son.
MERLIN
Sleep well, Father.
--
[EXT. FOREST, CAMP - DAY]
[Merlin wakes and sees mini-dragon that his father whittled for him. he smiles.
Arthur grabs him from behind, covering his mouth.]
ARTHUR (whisper)
Cenred's men.
[Arthur draws his sword. Cenred's men attack. Merlin tosses his father a sword and
takes on his own opponent. Merlin gets disarmed. Balinor rushes to his aid.]
BALINOR
No!
[Balinor is run through. Merlin catches his father.]
MERLIN
AHHHH!
[Merlin's eyes glow and he throws the guard who just stabbed his father. Merlin
lowers his dad to the ground and holds him.]
BALINOR
Ah, I see you have your father's talent. Merlin...
MERLIN
Please, no. Please. I can save you.
BALINOR
Listen to me. When you face the dragon, remember: be strong. A dragon's heart is on
its right side, not its left.
MERLIN
I can't do it alone.
BALINOR
Listen to me! Oh, my son. I've seen enough in you to know that you will make me
proud.
[Balinor dies.]
MERLIN
No. Father. (cries) No.
[Arthur shows up, sees Balinor, and throws his sword down.]
ARTHUR
NO!
[Merlin wipes his eyes and stands up to face Arthur.]
ARTHUR
Camelot is doomed.
--
[INT. KING'S PALACE, WAR ROOM - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur ride back to Camelot in the rain. look outs spot them and rush
to tell the King. the King and his advisors stand as Arthur and Merlin enter the
War Room.]
ARTHUR
I'm sorry, Father. I failed you. The last dragonlord is dead.
[Gaius looks at Merlin who tries not to cry. Gaius lowers his head.]
UTHER
There are many years where I might've wished for that news.
ARTHUR
All is not lost, Father. We have to fight the monster ourselves. So let us ride out
and fight on our own terms: on open ground, on horseback, where we can manoeuvre
better.
UTHER
There is no point.
ARTHUR
So what? We stand here, watch Camelot fall.
UTHER (nods)
You have my blessing.
ARTHUR
I need a dozen knights! Those who do not wish to fight can do so without stain on
their character. For those brave enough to volunteer should know, the chances of
returning are slim.
[Sir Leon's the first to step forward. twelve other knights step forward and form a
circle around Arthur.]
--
[INT. KING'S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - DAY]
[Merlin sits on his bed and cries over the dragon figurine his father made for him.
Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Merlin, what happened?
MERLIN
I couldn't save him.
GAIUS
Merlin.
MERLIN
He said the dragonlord's gift is passed from father to son.
GAIUS
That is true.
MERLIN
When I faced the Great Dragon, my magic was useless.
GAIUS
Your father wasn't dead. It's only then you can inherit his powers.
MERLIN
Do you think I'm strong enough to stand up to him?
GAIUS
Only time will tell.
[Arthur's Chambers. Merlin helps Arthur put on his armour.]
ARTHUR
Well, look on the bright side, Merlin. Chances are you're not going to have to
clean this again.
MERLIN
You must be careful today. Do not force the battle.
ARTHUR
Yes, Sire!
MERLIN
I'm serious.
ARTHUR
I can hear that.
MERLIN
Let matters take their course.
ARTHUR
Merlin, if I die, please...
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
The dragonlord today...I saw you. One thing I tell all my young knights: no man is
worth your tears.
MERLIN
Yeah. You're certainly not.
[Arthur picks up a sword and Merlin does too.]
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
MERLIN
ARTHUR
Merlin, the chances are I'm going to die.
MERLIN
Yeah. Yeah, you probably would if I wasn't there.
ARTHUR (scoff)
Right.
MERLIN
Do you know how many times I've had to save your royal backside?
ARTHUR
Well at least you got your sense of humour back.
[Arthur swipes Merlin's sword out of the way and heads toward the door. Merlin
follows. Arthur stops.]
ARTHUR
Are you really going to face this dragon with me?
MERLIN
I'm not going to sit here and watch. I know it's hard for you to understand how I
feel, but...well, I care a hell of a lot about that armour, I'm not going to let
you mess it up.
[They laugh. Arthur gives Merlin a friendly hit and they exit. Gaius watches from
the battlements as the dragon slayer party rides out of Camelot.]
--
[EXT. FOREST CLEARING - NIGHT]
[The dragon slayer party waits for Kilgharrah. The dragon arrives..]
ARTHUR
Hold firm.
[Kilgharrah swoops down.]
ARTHUR
Hold! Hold! Hold! Now!
[The knights circle their horses in formation to surround Kilgharrah. Kilgharrah

knocks Merlin, Arthur and some other knights off of their horses with his tail.
Kilgharrah roasts some other knights.]
MERLIN
No. Stop!
[Kilgharrah turns toward Merlin and Arthur. Arthur picks up a spear. Kilgharrah
contemplates Arthur for a moment and then tries to flambé him. Arthur rolls out of
the way and stabs Kilgharrah in the side. Kilgharrah roars and knocks Arthur out.
Merlin gets up.]
BALINOR (voiceover)
You're the last dragonlord now. You alone carry the ancient gift. Deep within
yourself, you must find the voice that you and Kilgharrah share, for your soul and
his are brothers. When you speak to him as kin, he must obey your will.
MERLIN
Dracan! Nán dyd ǽlc áciere miss! Eftsíðas eom ála cræt! Géate' stǽr ábære gárrǽs!
Géate cyre. Mé tácen átende diegollice. Car grise áþes.
[Kilgharrah settles back and bows to Merlin. Merlin picks up the spear.]
KILGHARRAH
I am the last of my kind, Merlin. Whatever wrongs I have done, do not make me
responsible for the death of my noble breed.
[Merlin thrusts the spear into the air and Kilgharrah winces.]
MERLIN
Go! Leave! If you ever attack Camelot again, I will kill you!
[Kilgharrah bows. Merlin drops the spear.]
MERLIN
I have shown you mercy! Now you must do the same to others!
KILGHARRAH
Young warlock, what you have shown is what you will be. I will not forget your
clemency. I'm sure our paths will cross again.
[Kilgharrah flies off. Arthur wakes.]
ARTHUR
What happened?
MERLIN
You dealt him a mortal blow.
ARTHUR
He's gone?
MERLIN
Yeah. You did it.
ARTHUR
Ha! Ha! Ha! *insane laughter*
MERLIN (laughs)
You did it.
[Arthur and Merlin head for the drawbridge. Uther sees them from his window, sighs
in relief and leaves. Gwen and Gaius come to meet them. Gwen runs to Arthur and
hugs him.]
GWEN (whisper)
I thought I'd lost you.
[Gaius and Merlin hug.]
GAIUS
My boy.
[Arthur and Gwen leave.]
MERLIN
I felt him there with me, Gaius.
GAIUS
He'll always be with you.
MERLIN
I hope so.
GAIUS
Merlin, I know I can never compare with your father, but for what it's worth,
you've still got me.
MERLIN
Well, I suppose I'll just have to make due.
GAIUS (laughs)
Merlin will return
-----------------------------------------------
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December 1 2010, 22:26
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BBC Merlin: 3x01 The Tears of Uther Pendragon, Part One
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, EXT. BATTLEFIELD - DAY]
ARTHUR
Check for survivors. Seems their attackers headed north! Come on!
MERLIN
Do you think we should be going after them?
ARTHUR
You are such a girl's petticoat.
--
[00:46, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM]
GAIUS
Sire, how many more men are you going to lose in this quest?
UTHER
As many as it takes.
GAIUS
I need to speak to you as a friend.
UTHER
I have no time for friends.
GAIUS
Then I'll speak to you as your physician. This is madness. She has been missing for
more than a year now. When are you going to stop?
UTHER
When Morgana is found.
--
[01:14, EXT. WOODS]
MERLIN
Ow.
ARTHUR
Is there something wrong with you?
MERLIN
I've been on a horse all day.
ARTHUR
Is your little bottom sore?
MERLIN
Yes. It's not as fat as yours.
ARTHUR
You know, you've got a lot of nerve for a wimp.
MERLIN
I may be a wimp, but at least I'm not a dollophead.
ARTHUR
There's no such word.
MERLIN
It's idiomatic.
ARTHUR
It's what?
MERLIN
You need to be more in touch with the people.
ARTHUR
Describe "dollop head".
MERLIN
In two words?
ARTHUR
Yeah.
MERLIN
Er...Prince Arthur.
[They find an abandoned camp and investigate. A Red Cape is shot with an arrow and
bandits attack.]
ARTHUR
On me!
[A fight ensues. Merlin grabs a sword, but it's knocked out of his hands.]
MERLIN
Ecg geteoh þing to.
[The attacker's sword magnetises, metal tools attach to it and the bandit falls
backwards. Merlin topples a tree on a second attacker. Merlin trips on his way to
help Arthur. A bandit comes up behind Arthur. Merlin magically throws a spear at
the bandit. Arthur looks around and sees Merlin still on the forest floor.]
ARTHUR
We're not playing hide and seek, Merlin!
MERLIN
Dollophead.
[The battle is won. Arthur hears a twig snap in the woods and investigates with
caution. Morgana stumbles out of the fog.]
ARTHUR
Morgana.
--
GAIUS
You need to rest.
GWEN
I'll stay with her.
GAIUS
Call me when she wakes, Guinevere.
--
UTHER
How is she?
GAIUS
She'll be fine.
UTHER
There's nothing wrong with her?
GAIUS
Nothing physical.
UTHER
May I see her?
GAIUS
Best wait 'til morning.
UTHER
Yes, of course. Gaius, thank you.
--
MERLIN
Did you talk to her?
GAIUS
She's sleeping.
MERLIN
Did she say anything about me?
GAIUS
Nothing as yet.
MERLIN
Well, she's going to.
GAIUS
Does she know your secret, Merlin? Does she know you have magic?
MERLIN
No, she doesn't. No one does.
GAIUS
Good. Because if Uther finds out ...
MERLIN
She knows I tried to poison her, she knows that.
GAIUS
You had no choice. Camelot was dying. Morgana was the source of the enchantment.
Either you poisoned her, or the kingdom fell.
MERLIN
But Uther won't know that. All she'll say is I tried to kill her.
GAIUS
We can't be sure, Merlin.
MERLIN
What do you think Uther will do to me?
GAIUS
Let's just wait and see what tomorrow brings.
--
GAIUS
Merlin. Arthur's requested your presence. In Morgana's chambers.
--
MORGANA
I was kept in a cell for almost a year. I thought I'd go mad.
ARTHUR
How did you escape?
MORGANA
They moved me about a week ago. I don't know why. It may have been the patrol from
Camelot.
ARTHUR
The patrol found you?
MORGANA
I thought I was gonna be free. But then I saw them killed. Every one of them cut
down. But that night, the bandits were distracted by their spoils. I took my
chance. When I saw you, I couldn't believe it. I think I need to rest.
ARTHUR
Everything's gonna be alright. You're safe now.
[Arthur leaves. Merlin begins to follow him.]
MORGANA
Merlin. I want to speak to you. I know what you did. You tried to poison me.
MERLIN
I didn't want to.
MORGANA
It's alright, Merlin. I understand. You were just trying to protect your friends, I
would have done the same.
MERLIN
Really?
MORGANA
I was so naïve, Merlin. I don't think I really understood what I was doing. But,
believe me, I have seen the evils in this world. I have seen firsthand what it is
that Uther fights against. You don't know how much I regret everything that I've
done. I just...hope that you can forgive me.
MERLIN
I am so sorry for everything you've been through. It's good to have you back.
--
[10:03, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS]
ARTHUR
What are you looking so happy about?
MERLIN
The sun is shining, we found Morgana, and I have just finished all my chores.
ARTHUR
Hmm.
MERLIN
Er, do you have to go in there right now?
ARTHUR
Why?
MERLIN
Er, I just washed the floor.
ARTHUR
Don't worry, I won't slip over.
MERLIN
You really have no idea, do you?
ARTHUR
All you have to do is wipe it.
MERLIN
How would you know?
ARTHUR
I beg your pardon, Merlin?
MERLIN
It's just, you've never had to do it.
ARTHUR
Oh, I know how to use a cloth and bucket.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah.
ARTHUR
It's easy. Here, let me show you.
[Arthur takes the cloth from Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Hmm? Hmm.
[Arthur picks up the bucket, dips the cloth in it, and wipes Merlin's face with
it.]
ARTHUR
Would you like me to show you how to use the bucket?
MERLIN
No.
[Arthur dumps the bucket of dirty water over Merlin's head.]

--
[11:21, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM]
[Morgana walks toward the dais where Sir Leon is giving Uther his report.]
SIR LEON
The grain stores are running low, but we're expecting supplies from the northern
borders before the end of the week.
UTHER
That's enough. Leave us.
[Uther rushes to meet Morgana. He embraces her with tears of joy. She wipes his
tears away with a handkerchief.]
UTHER
You should sit.
MORGANA
No, no. That's all I've done for the past year. Sit. And pray that you hadn't given
up on me.
UTHER
Never.
MORGANA
I don't know why. I wouldn't blame you. You've done more for me than any guardian.
You've always cared for me, loved me like I was your own daughter. And yet I've
insulted you, defied you, hurt you. I don't know why you put up with me. But I
promise, in the future I will show you the love and respect that you deserve. I
will leave you to your council.
[Morgana walks back to the entrance, smirking.]
--
[13:00, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE]
[Morgana leaves the castle at night and rides to a cave guarded by the Bloodguard.]
MORGAUSE
My sister. How have you fared?
MORGANA
Camelot has welcomed back its daughter with open arms.
MORGAUSE
Uther does not suspect?
MORGANA
He laps up my lies like the snivelling dog that he is.
MORGAUSE
And the boy?
MORGANA
Merlin? He believes I've changed. And he's right. Soon he will see exactly how
much.
MORGAUSE
You've done well. The tears of Uther Pendragon have only begun to fall.
[Morgause drops the handkerchief with Uther's tears into a giant cauldron filled
with boiling mud and drops in a large root next. The root screams and Morgana
flinches.]
MORGAUSE
The mandrake root is very special. Only those with magic can hear its cries. But
for those without magic, the magic pierces the very recesses of the soul, twisting
the unconscious into the very image of fear and dread. Uther Pendragon will find
that his great kingdom counts for nothing, when he has lost his mind. Mid þæm
wundorcræft þæs ealdan æwþ ic þe hate nime Utheres wopdropan ond þa gemengan mid
his blod. Sy he under wittig ond deofol seocnes his heorte afylþ.
[Morgause's eye glow. She pulls out the muddy root and hands it to Morgana.]
--
[15:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER’S CHAMBERS]
[The mandrake root hangs under Uther's bed, dripping mud onto the floor.]
UTHER
How is Morgana?
GAIUS
She seems to have made a remarkable recovery, My Lord.
UTHER
She was always like that as a child. Very brave. She inherited much from her
father.
GAIUS
Gorlois was a great man.
UTHER
Indeed. I trust she will be well enough to attend the feast.
GAIUS
I see no reason why not.
UTHER
Thank you, Gaius.
--
[16:21, EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS]
[Arthur fights two opponents while blindfolded.]
ARTHUR
Let's change weapons. What'd you think?
MERLIN
I've seen better.
ARTHUR
Course. Well, you are the expert at fighting with your eyes closed.
MERLIN
But you didn't see what I did when we rescued Morgana.
ARTHUR
Because you were hiding behind a tree.
MERLIN
No. I was not.
ARTHUR
I'm not going to use the blindfold, I'm just going to fight like Merlin here.
(whimper) “I'm Merlin, don't hurt me.” Ready?
[Arthur fights with the two knights again. Merlin magically pulls the sword out of
Arthur's grasp. Arthur gets hit in the stomach with a mace and falls face first
into the mud.]
--
[17:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES]
UTHER
Standing here, seeing so many happy faces, seems almost like a dream. I can tell
you, I have not felt like this in a long time.
ARTHUR
What, drunk?
UTHER
Drunk with happiness. I would have searched the entire world, the seas, the skies,
the stars, for that smile. To have it stolen from me was like a blade to my heart.
Morgana, there are no words. You mean more to me that you will ever know. To Lady
Morgana.
COURT
To Lady Morgana.
UTHER
I need some air.
--
UTHER
Who's that? Arthur?
[Uther walks to the well and looks inside. Ygraine grabs his arm and screams.]
YGRAINE
Please. Please!
UTHER
AHHHH!
[Uther continues screaming, curls up in the foetal position and rocks back and
forth as guards run to check on him.]
--
[Arthur sets Uther down on the bed.]
MORGANA
Careful. Is he going to be alright?
GAIUS
He should sleep 'til morning.
--
[20:49, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR]
ARTHUR
What could've made him like this?
GAIUS
I've no idea.
ARTHUR
Gaius, he was lying on the ground crying.
GAIUS
Exhaustion.
ARTHUR
Gaius. What aren't you telling me? What's wrong with him? Tell me.
GAIUS
When I found him, he was mumbling. Most of it was incoherent, but...
ARTHUR
What?
GAIUS
He kept mentioning your mother's name.
ARTHUR
He never talks about her.
GAIUS
He claimed that he saw her. In the well.
ARTHUR
Did the guards see him in this state?
GAIUS
I think you're worrying too much.
ARTHUR
If the people get to know about this...!
GAIUS
We say that he was ill, but now he's recovered.
--
[21:46, INT. MORGAUSE'S CAVE]
MORGANA
Already the rumours are spreading.
MORGAUSE
The mandrake's poison does its work well.
MORGANA
Soon all of Camelot will believe that their king is going mad.
MORGAUSE
And a kingdom without a king is ripe for the picking
MORGANA
When do you go to Cenred?
MORGAUSE
Tomorrow.
MORGANA
And he will do as we wish?
MORGAUSE
Cenred wishes only to please me.
MORGANA
Then your time with him has been well spent.
--
[22:15, EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS]
GUARD
Lady Morgana.
MORGANA
I was just taking a stroll.
[The guard hears and sees the mud dripping from a new mandrake root that Morgause
gave her.]
GUARD
What's that, My Lady?
MORGANA
Nothing.
GUARD
You're bleeding.
MORGAUSE
I'm fine, really.
GUARD
You're wounded.
[The guard opens Morgana's cloak and Morgana stabs him and the guard falls over the
wall.]
--
GWEN
My Lady.
[Morgana looks down at her muddy cloak and tosses it behind her bed. Gwen enters.]
GWEN
I saw the light, wanted to make sure you were alright.
MORGANA
I'm fine.
GWEN
You're still dressed.
MORGANA
I'll prepare myself for bed.
GWEN
You sure?
MORGANA
That will be all, Gwen.
--
[23:36, INT. CENRED'S CASTLE, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
CENRED
To what do I owe this pleasure?
MORGAUSE
If you will not leave your castle, then I must come to you.
CENRED
I see that you've lost none of your audacity.
MORGAUSE
I wish I could say the same. But I find the great King Cenred cowering in his
chambers when he should've met me at the border. Perhaps he has lost his nerve.
Perhaps he is a coward.
[One of Cenred's men draws a sword. Morgause throws him backwards with a look.
Cenred's other men draw their swords. Cenred holds up a hand to stop them.]
CENRED
You are very beautiful when you're angry.
MORGAUSE
Is that why you continue to defy me?
CENRED
Well, you wouldn't like it if I made it easy for you.
MORGAUSE (laughs)
--
[24:59, INT. CENRED'S CASTLE, THRONE ROOM]
[Cenred pours Morgause a drink and sits down across from her.]
CENRED
I'm certain you've not come all this way just to drink, Morgause.
MORGAUSE
You know me well.
CENRED
Extremely well. And yet, somehow, we're still close.
MORGAUSE
I've come to talk to you about our old friend, Uther Pendragon.
CENRED
Yes. I have heard the sad news. He's finally lost his mind.
MORGAUSE
Camelot is weak, weaker than it's been for years. the kingdom is vulnerable, just
as I promised.
CENRED
Yet it doesn't change the fact the citadel is still impregnable.
MORGAUSE
So, even without his wits, Uther is too strong for you.
CENRED
You're a woman of great courage, Morgause, but I don't think with my sword. An
assault on Camelot cannot be undertaken lightly.
MORGAUSE
You forget. We have an ally in the court.
CENRED
That is no guarantee. Traitors blow like the wind.
MORGAUSE
Not this one. She can be relied upon until the end. You can be certain of that.
--
ARTHUR
We've had reports that mercenaries are streaming into Cenred's kingdom.
UTHER
Do we know why?
ARTHUR
There is rumour that Cenred is amassing an army. I think we should send a patrol
out to assess the situation.
[Uther stares past Arthur.]
ARTHUR
Father?
[Arthur turns to see what his father's staring at. The court looks back at Uther.
Uther sees a small drowned boy standing in the council room, dripping water all
over the floor. Uther stands up and points at the boy.]
UTHER
Leave me alone. Get out of here.
ARTHUR
Father, will you...
UTHER
I said get out! Get out! I'll have you hanged!
[Arthur and Sir Leon restrain Uther and drag him from the room.]
UTHER
You hanged! You...! You...!
--
[27:24, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR]
MERLIN
There must be some explanation.
GAIUS
During the great purge, Uther drowned many he suspected of sorcery. And some, God
help them, were children, killed for the magic they were born with. Maybe his
conscience is playing tricks with him. Whatever it is, we can no longer hide this.
A king's hold on his people's a very fragile thing, Merlin. If they start to lose
faith in him, I fear for Camelot.
--
[28:10, EXT. KING’S PALACE, BENEATH THE DRAWBRIDGE]
[Gaius, Sir Leon, and Merlin lean over the body of the guard Morgana stabbed.]
GAIUS
Take this man to my chambers. I need to speak to Arthur as a matter of urgency.
--
GAIUS
The sentry must've been attacked at some point during the night.
ARTHUR
Who could've done this?
[Gaius hands Arthur the dagger Morgana used to stab the guard.]
GAIUS
That is a sigil of the Bloodguard.
ARTHUR
The Bloodguard?
GAIUS
Warrior priests sworn to protect the high priestesses of the Old Religion.
ARTHUR
Surely they were wiped out during the Great Purge.
GAIUS
Not all of them.
ARTHUR
So you believe there is a traitor in Camelot.
GAIUS
It is possible, Sire. The sentry will be able to tell us soon enough.
ARTHUR
He's still alive?
GAIUS
Indeed.
--
MORGANA
Gaius? Merlin?
[Morgana looks through Gaius's shelves and takes a bottle of poison.]
--
[Gaius and Merlin walk toward the physician's chambers. Morgana comes out of hiding
and leaves.]
--
[Merlin checks on the guard.]
MERLIN
Gaius. You said he was recovering.
GAIUS
I thought he was.
MERLIN
Then what happened? You don't think it's strange?
GAIUS
Very.
--
[Merlin places a potion bottle on Uther's bureau and pulls up Uther's blankets.
Merlin hears mud dripping from the mandrake and looks down to see some mud goo on
the floor. Morgana approaches and Merlin slips under the bed, bumping into the
mandrake root. Morgana pulls off the root without looking and exits. Merlin follows
Morgana through the lower town and into the woods.]
--
[32:52, EXT. WOODS]
MORGAUSE
Sorry you had to wait. There was much to discuss.
MORGANA
But your visit was successful?
MORGAUSE
Cenred's army ride for Camelot on my command.
MORGANA
There is nothing you cannot do.
MORGAUSE
It is you that gives me strength, sister. How goes the battle for Uther's mind?
MORGANA
When Cenred marches on Camelot, he will find a kingdom without a leader.
MORGAUSE
Finally we are ready.
MORGANA
Not quite. Merlin suspects me.
MORGAUSE
Has he told Arthur?
MORGANA
Not yet, but he will.
MORGAUSE
Well, then we must stop him.
MORGANA
That will not be difficult.
MORGAUSE
Why?
MORGANA
Because he's already here.
[Merlin comes out of hiding.]
MORGANA
Did you really think I was that stupid, Merlin?
[Merlin runs. He's chased and captured by the Bloodguard.]
--
GAIUS
How are you, Sire?
ARTHUR
It's not me who's sick.
GAIUS
It can't be easy to see your father this way.
ARTHUR
No. He's always been so strong. He lifted his kingdom from its knees, Gaius. To see
him now...
GAIUS
I am sure that, over time, he will recover. But until then, we have to make plans,
Arthur. We need you to assume control.
ARTHUR
That's ridiculous.
GAIUS
Camelot needs a leader. It falls to you. You must fulfil your role as regent. This
is not just me talking. Members of the court have spoken.
ARTHUR
So now you've taken to whispering behind my back. What kind of treason is this?
GAIUS
It's for the good of the kingdom.
ARTHUR
I'm not going to usurp my father.
GAIUS
The palace is awash with rumours. The people are restless.
ARTHUR
I swore allegiance to my King, and as long as there is breath in his body, it is my
duty to uphold that.
GAIUS
Arthur, please.
ARTHUR
You are giving up on my father. That is something I will never do.
--
[35:38, EXT. WOODS]
[Merlin wakes, bound in chains.]
MORGAUSE
You intrigue me, Merlin. Why does a lowly servant continue to risk everything for
Arthur and for Camelot? You know the answer, but you're not telling me. Why? Come
on. Time and again you put your life on the line. There must be a reason.
MERLIN
I believe in a fair and just land.
MORGAUSE
And you think Arthur will give you that?
MERLIN
I know it.
MORGAUSE
And then what? You think you'll be recognised, Merlin? Is that it? All this so, one
day, you can be a serving boy to the King? No. There's something more. Something
you're not telling me, isn't there?
MERLIN
I told you.
MORGAUSE
Well, you can take your secret to your grave. Weorc untoworpenlic.
[Merlin's chains glow and tighten from the magical binding.]
MORGAUSE
You chose to poison one of my own. You may regret that.
--
GAIUS
Merlin. You're going to be la...
[Gaius opens Merlin's door, but Merlin's bed hasn't been slept in.]
--
[37:33, EXT. WOODS]
MERLIN
Abricaþ benda.
[The chains glow, but don't break.]
MERLIN
Abricaþ benda!
[The chains glow, but don't break. Merlin takes a breath.]
MERLIN
Isen fæstnunga onlucan me!
[The chains glow, but Merlin's attempts to free himself fail. Merlin hears
scorpions approach.]
--
GAIUS
Have you seen Merlin?
GWEN
Not since yesterday.
MORGANA
Is there a problem?
GAIUS
I'm not sure.
MORGANA
What is it?
GAIUS
Merlin didn't come home last night.
MORGANA
That's not like him.
GAIUS
No.
--
[38:37, EXT. WOODS]
MERLIN
Min strengest miht hate þe tospringan!
[The chains glow, but Merlin's attempt to free himself fails. Scorpions draw
nearer.]
--
[Arthur sits by his father's bedside. Morgana enters.]
ARTHUR
I need him to get better.
MORGANA
I know.
ARTHUR (sniffle)
I'm glad you're here.
MORGANA
I'll make sure he's looked after, don't worry.
--
[39:53, EXT. WOODS]
MERLIN
Awendaþ eft wansæliga neat! Forlætan me a...!
[Merlin's spells fend off a couple scorpions, but one stabs him in the back. Merlin
throws the scorpion that stabbed him with a flash of his eyes.]
MERLIN
Ω δρακον, έάω μαλερός σοφόνους φθέγγομαι τείδε άναδικέω!
--
[40:56, EXT. COUNTRYSIDE]
[Cenred leads his army to Camelot.]
--
[41:13 INT. MORGAUSE'S CAVE]
[Morgause watches Cenred's army from her crystal.]
--
[41:18, EXT. WOODS]
[The scorpions continue to approach Merlin. The Great Dragon arrives and roasts a
few before picking him up. Merlin faints from the poison sting as the Dragon flies
off.]
-----------------------------------------------
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December 2 2010, 21:49
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BBC Merlin: 3x02 The Tears of Uther Pendragon, Part Two
KILGHARRAH
--
[01:33, EXT. DRAGON'S EYRIE]
[Merlin wakes.]
MERLIN
I didn't think you'd answer my call.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin, I could not resist a dragonlord, even if I wanted to.
MERLIN
I'm grateful, thank you.
KILGHARRAH
Lie still.
MERLIN
Ow. What hurts?
KILGHARRAH
The serket's poison is powerful. I have given you an enchantment that will help you
heal, but it will take time.
--
ARTHUR
Where is that half-wit?
GAIUS
Merlin?
ARTHUR
I've got no socks, no breeches, and an archery session to go to. Merlin!
GAIUS
I thought he was with you, Sire.
ARTHUR
Don't try and cover for him.
GAIUS
He didn't come home last night, I can't find him.
ARTHUR
When you do, you can tell him he's the target.
--
[02:55, INT. KING’S PALACE, UPPER CORRIDOR]
[Morgana sneaks through the castle and peeks around the corner at some guards. She
descends to the burial vaults, sets fire to some brush and places it in a notch in
the wall to create smoke in the corridor above. The guards investigate, leaving the
corridor empty. Morgana sneaks through to the King's chambers, wraps a string
around the mandrake root and strangles it several times. The Uther becomes more
terrified with each scream the root makes.]
--
[04:19, EXT. DRAGON’S EYRIE]
[Merlin wakes.]
MERLIN
You shouldn't have let me sleep.
KILGHARRAH
I had no choice, young warlock. The venom was too strong, even for your great
powers.
MERLIN
I don't have time. I need to get back to Camelot. The kingdom is in danger
and...it's my fault. I should've listened to you. Should never have trusted
Morgana.
KILGHARRAH
You did what you felt was right, and that shows great courage. But trust is a
double edged sword.
MERLIN
I thought...because she has magic, I thought we were the same.
KILGHARRAH
In some ways you are.
MERLIN
No. I will never be like her.
KILGHARRAH
You have learnt an important lesson, Merlin. Your determination to see goodness in
people will be your undoing. But I fear that your futures are now joined forever.
She is the darkness to your light, the hatred to your love.
MERLIN
I need to get back to Camelot.
KILGHARRAH
You're not yet fully recovered, Merlin, and it's more than three days' walk.
MERLIN
I've no intention of walking.
[Merlin rides the dragon to Camelot.]
MERLIN
Woo! Whoa. Ha-ha! Woo!
[Kilgharrah drops Merlin off in the clearing near Camelot.]
KILGHARRAH
This is as far as I go.
MERLIN
Thank you. I won't forget this.
KILGHARRAH
Be careful, young warlock. The great battle for Camelot has begun. You must be
strong. For Arthur's destiny and the future of Albion lie in your hands.
--
[Merlin shakes Gaius awake.]
MERLIN (whisper)
You need to wake up.
GAIUS
Merlin! Where have you been?
MERLIN
I don't have time to explain.
GAIUS
Are you alright?
MERLIN
Morgana is in league with Morgause; she's plotting against Uther.
GAIUS
What?
MERLIN
She's responsible for his visions. Come on, hurry up. There's something I need to
show you.
--
[The room is topsy-turvy when Merlin and Gaius enter. Uther is crouched in a
corner.]
GAIUS
Uther? Uther!
[Uther paws desperately at Gaius while he stares at nothing over Gaius's shoulder.
Uther sees a sopping wet Ygraine with five drowned children in the middle of the
room.]
YGRAINE
Please!
[Merlin rushes to the bed, removes the mandrake root, and throws it in the
fireplace. The root screams as it dies.]
GAIUS
It was an enchantment, Sire. You need to rest.
[Gaius and Merlin help Uther into bed. Gaius drugs Uther's cup.]
GAIUS
Please drink this, sir. It will help you to sleep.
[Gaius feeds Uther the drink.]
--
MERLIN
We must tell Uther what Morgana has done.
GAIUS
Are you mad? He'd have both our heads if we made such accusations. He'd look on it
as treason.
MERLIN
We can't just let her get away with it.
GAIUS
He dotes on her every word, Merlin.
MERLIN
But...if he knew.
GAIUS
You've seen how blind he is to her faults. Besides, the root is gone now. It can do
no more harm.
MERLIN
No, you don't understand. I heard Morgana and Morgause. There's more to their plan,
I'm sure of it.
--
[09:30, MORGAUSE'S CAVE]
[Morgause watches Cenred's army in a crystal as they march through a valley.]
--
[Knights of Camelot watch Cenred's army from a hill and then ride off through the
woods.]
--
[Merlin opens the curtains and turns around to a jumbled mess.]
MERLIN
What happened?!
ARTHUR
What happened? I've had to make do without a servant, that's what's happened.
MERLIN
I wasn't gone for that long.
ARTHUR
Without my permission.
MERLIN
What if I was dying?
ARTHUR
I wouldn't be complaining! But you're not. So where've you been?
MERLIN
I was dying.
ARTHUR
I don't have time for this. The future of the kingdom rests upon my shoulders. Do
you have any idea what that feels like?
MERLIN
Well...
ARTHUR
Merlin. I should have you thrown in the dungeons. So, what've you got to say for
yourself?
MERLIN
You've not had your breakfast this morning, have you?
ARTHUR
I'll have you for breakfast!
[Arthur throws a random object at Merlin.]
MERLIN
Oh, no wonder this place is such a mess!
[Arthur throws another object.]
MERLIN
Oh, yes, I can see you've got all the makings of a great king.
[Arthur throws yet another object and Merlin ducks out of the room.]
--
GWEN
May I clear away the dishes, My Lady?
[Morgana stares out the window as Merlin walks through the square with Arthur.]
GWEN
Morgana?
MORGANA
I was thinking about what to wear. I must dress.
--
[Morgana checks under the bed for the madrake root.]
GAIUS
Have you lost something, My Lady?
MORGANA
My earring. I thought I might have dropped it when I was in here yesterday. How is
he?
GAIUS
Much better. We found the source of his sickness. He was being enchanted.
MORGANA
Enchanted.
GAIUS
You need not worry, My Lady. He'll make a full recovery.
MORGANA
That is a relief.
GAIUS
Indeed, My Lady.
--
[Morgana pops out of an alcove as Merlin walks by and pulls him into it.]
MORGANA
I don't know how you managed to escape, but I do know one thing: if you breathe a
word of what you saw, I will make your life a very short and painful one. Just
think how Uther would react if he learned that a serving boy had tried to poison
his beloved ward.
[Morgana struts off with a smirk. The knights of Camelot return.]
--
SIR LEON
I estimate they will reach the city within two days.
ARTHUR
Under whose banner do they march?
SIR LEON
Cenred's, Sire. We knew he was amassing an army...
ARTHUR
How many men?
SIR LEON
20,000 maybe more.
GAIUS
I fear that news of the king's illness has spread beyond our borders. Cenred sees
an opportunity.
SIR LEON
Then we must find a way to appease him
ARTHUR
Not what my father would do, he wouldn't bow to our enemies.
GAIUS
Forgive me, Sire, we are outnumbered two to one.
ARTHUR
What concessions will Cenred insist on? What territories will he demand?
GAIUS
We do not have to give him anything, but it could buy us valuable time.
ARTHUR
It shows weakness, Gaius. There's only one course of action open to us.
[Arthur sits on the throne.]
ARTHUR
We must prepare the city for siege.
SIR LEON
Are you sure that is wise?
ARTHUR
The castle is our strongest weapon. No army has ever taken Camelot.
SIR LEON
But what about the people in the outlying villages?
ARTHUR
Give them refuge within the city walls.
SIR LEON
And what of their houses, their livelihoods? Cenred will destroy everything in his
path.
ARTHUR
But they will have their lives. Go. Ready the army.
--
[13:42, EXT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR]
MERLIN
You did well in there. I mean it. I was impressed. We're talking siege engines, and
battering rams, and catapults. You made a tough decision whe...you're risking
hundreds of...
ARTHUR
Do you know what?
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
I'd really prefer it if you just kept quiet in these situations.
MERLIN
I am just trying to help.
ARTHUR
Well, you're not.
MERLIN
I know you don't mean that; you're just worried. But you don't need to be. Look
what we've got.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
You and...me.
ARTHUR
Merlin, what exactly are you going to do?
MERLIN
I'm going to be at your side, like I always am, protecting you.
ARTHUR
God help me.
--
CENRED
My dear Morgause.
MORGAUSE
Cenred.
CENRED
My army shall be here by nightfall.
[Morgause smiles.]
CENRED
I'm glad that pleases you.
MORGAUSE
I'll wait and see if you deliver before I say that I am pleased.
CENRED
And when I do?
MORGAUSE
Then I will give you a feast that you will never forget.
--
[Gwen knocks on the open door and Arthur turns around.]
GWEN
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to...
ARTHUR
No. Come in, please.
GWEN
How is your father?
ARTHUR
I could do with him here.
GWEN
You should have more faith in yourself.
ARTHUR
What are the people saying.
GWEN
They are glad that you have taken charge.
ARTHUR
I've committed them to a siege. There's going to be casualties, Gwen.
[Gwen steps forward and places a hand on Arthur's arm.]
GWEN
I trust you, Arthur. More than Uther. More than any man. Worry is not a wise
counsel. Forget everything else. You have to follow what you believe is right.
[Arthur places his hand over Gwen's. Gwen looks up at him and steps back.]
GWEN
I should go, Sire.
ARTHUR
There's no need to call me that.
GWEN
There is every need, Sire.
[Gwen leaves.]
--
[16:32, INT. KING’S PALACE, WROUGHT IRON STAIRWAY]
[Morgana watches the citizens of Camelot prepare for the siege before she sneaks
out of the city.]
--
[16:54, EXT. WOODS]
MORGANA
Where have you been?
MORGAUSE
What's wrong, sister?
MORGANA
It's Merlin. He's alive. He's back in Camelot. He has thwarted us. He destroyed the
mandrake root. Your enchantment's been broken.
MORGAUSE
Do not worry. The root has already done its work, and Cenred's army are less than a
day from the city.
MORGANA
Then it is time?
MORGAUSE
Are you ready? Morgana? Cenred's army are mighty, but they cannot bring down the
city on their own. You, too, must play your part.
MORGANA
Tell me what I must do.
[Morgause holds out a staff.]
MORGAUSE
It's carved from the Rowen tree that grows at the very heart of the Isle of the
Blessed. Only the high priestesses and their Bloodguard have ever set eyes on it.
MORGANA
My magic is still weak. I do not have the strength to wield such an instrument.
MORGAUSE
Do not worry. The staff will guide you. It carries its own power.
MORGANA
I will not fail you.
MORGAUSE
I know.
--
[Peasants stream into Camelot from the outlying villages.]
--
[Merlin drags bags of supplies up the steps.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, where have you been? I've been calling for you.
MERLIN
Gathering provisions. Twenty-five salted cod, fifteen dried capers, and one smoked
boar.
ARTHUR
What on earth for?
MERLIN
We're preparing for a siege.
ARTHUR
Yes, not a banquet.
MERLIN
You know what you're like without food. We could be trapped in here for weeks,
months, even. Look what I've got for your breakfast. Your favourite. Pickled eggs.
--
[19:04, INT. KING’S PALACE, WROUGHT IRON STAIRWAY]
[Soldiers continue to prepare for the siege. Arthur walls through the infirmary
giving instructions to Sir Leon. Arthur catches sight of Gwen and gives her a nod.]
--
[19:35, EXT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR]
ARTHUR
Has everyone from the outlying villages been given shelter?
SIR LEON
As best we can, Sire. They amount to almost 9,000 so far, but they're still coming.
ARTHUR
How long will our provisions last?
SIR LEON
Depends, Sire, on what losses we sustain.
ARTHUR
Cenred?
SIR LEON
Our scouts report he'll be upon us a matter of hours.
--
[Arthur sits by his father's bedside. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
Sire. It's time.
[Arthur gets up and places his hand on his sleeping father.]
ARTHUR
I promise, I will not let you down.
--
[20:33, EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS]
[Arthur and Merlin look out at the enemy. Arthur leads his knights past his army in
the Square. In a lower chamber, Arthur steels himself as his knights ready their
weapons.]
--
[Merlin helps Arthur on with his armour. He pulls a little too tightly on the
vambrace strap.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Sorry.
ARTHUR
It's not like you to get nervous, is it, Merlin?
MERLIN
I'm not nervous.
ARTHUR
No?
MERLIN
Because I trust in your destiny.
ARTHUR
Have you been on the cider?
MERLIN
It is your fate to be the greatest king Camelot has ever known. Your victory today
will be remembered...by every age...'til the end of time. Just trust in yourself.
ARTHUR
There are times, Merlin, when you display a sort of...I don't know what it is. I
don't want to say...it's not wisdom. But, yes. That's what it is.
[Merlin smiles.]
ARTHUR
Don't look so pleased. The rest of the time you're a complete idiot.
--
[Morgana watches the soldiers file out of the castle.]
--
[23:20, INT. KING’S PALACE, LOWER CHAMBER]
[Arthur greets his troops and raises his sword.]
ARTHUR
KNIGHTS
[Arthur leads them out. Other soldiers prepare barricades in the lower town.]
--
[23:53, OUTER EDGE OF THE BATTLEFIELD]
[Cenred and Morgause are mounted near the forest with their guards as they watch
his troops prepare the trebuchets.]
CENRED
Fire!
[The trebuchets launch flaming material and Cenred's troops advance on the city.]
--
[Uther wakes and gets out of bed.]
--
[Cenred's army breaks through the gate and advances towards the barricade. Arthur
and his knights fend them off. Uther descends the steps into the Square dressed in
his armour. He draws his sword and runs across the drawbridge.]
SIR LEON
Hold the line!
[Sir Leon catches sight of Uther.]
SIR LEON
You need to go back, Sire.
[Uther pushes past Sir Leon to reach the front line.]
--
[25:20, INT. KING’S PALACE, INFIRMARY]
[Merlin enters and glances over at Morgana.]
MERLIN
Gaius. One of us needs to keep an eye on her.
GAIUS
Don't worry, I am.
MERLIN
You mustn't let her out of your sight. I need to get back to Arthur.
--
[A fireball lands in the square and Merlin gets knocked to the ground. Cenred's men
use ladders to climb the battlements, Camelot's army defends. Cenred and Morgause
continue to watch from the woods.]
--
[Uther finally reaches the front line and begins to attack. Arthur catches sight of
him.]
ARTHUR
Father!
[Arthur pushes his way to Uther and drags him away from the front line.]
UTHER
What are you doing?
ARTHUR
You're not well.
UTHER
This is my kingdom!
[Uther gets hit by a lone, stray arrow and collapses into Arthur's arms. Arthur
looks back at the overwhelmed barricade.]
ARTHUR
Pull back! Retreat!
[Merlin arrives as the knights retreat and Cenred's men launch themselves over the
barricade in full force.]
MERLIN
Forbærnen.
[Merlin's spell sends up a wall of fire to block the enemy and allow Camelot's
troops time to retreat.]
--
[Morgana waits for Gaius to look away and then leaves. Gaius looks back up and sees
Morgana leaving. Gaius follows her to her through the war torn Square to her
chambers.]
--
[Morgana fetches the Rowen staff from under her bed and hides behind a column.
Gaius looks around for a moment and leaves.]
--
[Arthur helps his father to the well.]
UTHER
You must get back to the battle, we're losing the lower town.
ARTHUR
It's already lost, Father.
UTHER
And the citadel?
ARTHUR
Safe for now.
UTHER
It must stay that way.
ARTHUR
You have to trust me, Father. I know what I'm doing.
[Arthur pulls the arrow out of Uther's leg.]
ARTHUR
You must rest. When you're well again, you will still have a kingdom, I promise you
that.
--
[Cenred rides back to Morgause.]
CENRED
The lower town is ours.
MORGAUSE
That will hardly fill the pages of history. What of the citadel itself?
CENRED
Their defences are strong. Time for you to deliver your side of the bargain.
MORGAUSE
Patience, Cenred. You will not be disappointed.
[Morgana makes her way down to the burial vaults.]
--
[Merlin and a soldier help Uther to a medical table.]
MERLIN
Where's Gaius?
GWEN
I don't know.
GAIUS
Morgana's disappeared.
--
[29:09, INT. KING’S PALACE, BURIAL VAULTS]
[Morgana enters and smirks. Merlin bursts into Morgana's room looking for her.
Morgana drives the staff into the stone floor. Merlin feels the jolt of magic.]
--
[Morgause breathes in the power of the Rowen staff.]
CENRED
Enough of your games, Morgause. What has happened to your traitor?
MORGAUSE
For such a great king, you have very little patience.
CENRED
The time for patience is over!
MORGAUSE
You need not worry much longer. No army can fight on two fronts. Not even the
knights of Camelot.
--
[Morgana watches the Rowen staff shoot energy beams at the tombs around her.]
--
[30:24, THE EXT. KING’S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS]
[Arthur and his soldiers fend off the enemy. One of the soldiers near him gets
stabbed and Arthur helps him down from the battlements.]
--
[Morgana watches skeletons burst through their tombs around her.]
--
[Arthur helps the wounded soldier through the square.]
ARTHUR
Take him to the hospital.
[Arthur hands the wounded soldier off to a couple of men. Merlin comes down the
steps.]
ARTHUR
Merlin! Where the hell have you been?
MERLIN
Nowhere!
ARTHUR
You're starting to make a habit of this. What's your excuse this time?
[Merlin stops to gape at something.]
ARTHUR
Come on, Merlin. You can do better than that.
[Merlin points behind Arthur. Arthur turns to see an army of skeletons behind him.
Arthur fights one and stabs it. The skeleton shrugs and keeps fighting. Merlin
fights a skeleton and lops its arm off. A knight takes on the skeleton while Merlin
slashes at the arm on the ground.]
--
[Arthur and Merlin rush up the steps, but stop half way.]
ARTHUR
You need to warn Gaius. Tell him to seal off the hospital.
[Arthur turns to face the skeleton entering the castle. Merlin watches the
silhouette approach.]
ARTHUR
Merlin! Do as I say!
[Merlin rushes up the steps.]
--
UTHER
I have to get out there.
GAIUS
No, Sire. You're still weak from the medicine I gave you. I told you that...
UTHER
I cannot watch my kingdom fall and do nothing.
GAIUS
Arthur will defend it.
MERLIN
Gaius.
[Gaius leaves Uther to talk with Merlin.]
MERLIN
You need to seal off the hospital. The castle is under attack from within.
GAIUS
MERLIN
Morgana, she summoned an army of the dead. They're everywhere.
GAIUS
Where are you going?!
MERLIN
To try to stop her.
[Merlin runs down the Wrought Iron Stairway.]
--
[33:18, EXT. KING’S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE GATE]
[Camelot soldiers defend against Cenred's army. Sir Leon moves back from the front
line and turns to see the skeleton army crossing the drawbridge towards him.]
SIR LEON
On me!
--
ARTHUR
We can't fight a battle on two fronts.
GWEN
Keep still.
[Gwen bandages Arthur's hand. Arthur winces.]
ARTHUR
I don't know how much longer we can hold the citadel. We need to get my father to
safety
GAIUS
How? We no longer control the lower town. There's no escape, Arthur.
--
[Merlin enters and Morgana turns to look at him.]
MORGANA
You should leave now while you still can.
MERLIN
Morgana, please. I beg you. Women and children are dying. The city will fall.
MORGANA
Good.
MERLIN
No, you don't mean that.
MORGANA
I have magic, Merlin. Uther hates me and everyone like me. Why should I feel any
differently about him?
MERLIN
You of all people could change Uther's mind. But doing this? Using magic like this
will only harden his heart.
MORGANA
You don't have magic, Merlin. How could you hope to understand?
MERLIN
I do understand, believe me. If I had your gifts, I would harness them for good.
That's what magic should be for. That's why you were born with these powers.
MORGANA
You don't know what it's like to be an outsider. To be ashamed of how you were
born, to have to hide who you are. Do you think I deserve to be executed because of
who I am?
MERLIN
No. It doesn't have to be like this. We can find another way.
MORGANA
There is no other way.
[Merlin nods as he backs up. Merlin walks behind a pillar and tries to dash around
the other side to reach the Rowen staff. Morgana knocks the sword out of his hand
and draws her own. Morgana advances on him and Merlin backs up.]
MERLIN
What are you going to do? Kill me?
MORGANA
You don't think I can?
MERLIN
If you're going to do it, make it quick.
[Morgana slashes at Merlin. Merlin ducks and picks his sword up from the floor.
They fight.]
--
[Sir Leon and other soldiers continue to fight between Cenred's army and the
skeleton army.]
--
[Merlin and Morgana continue fighting.]
--
[Sir Leon and soldiers continue fighting.]
--
[Morgana disarms Merlin. Merlin avoid her attacks, Morgana gets off balance and
Merlin ducks behind a tomb.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Feoll bu brand!
[Merlin's spell collapses part of the vault roof on top of Morgana, knocking her
out. Merlin picks up a sword and runs to the Rowen staff.]
MERLIN
Snæde!
[Merlin slices through the staff.]
--
[The skeleton that Arthur is fighting crumbles. The skeleton that another knight is
fighting crumbles.]
--
[The skeleton Sir Leon is fighting crumbles. Sir Leon rejoins the fight against
Cenred's army. The knights of Camelot push the fight past the training grounds
gate.]
--
CENRED
Your traitor has failed us just as I knew they would. I'm calling off the siege.
MORGAUSE
You can't!
CENRED
I cannot take the city unaided. That was not our bargain!
MORGAUSE
You have failed me, Cenred.
CENRED
I would rather fail you, Morgause, then watch thousands of men die.
--
[38:45, INT. KING'S PALACE, THRONE ROOM]
MERLIN
Sire.
ARTHUR
What is it, Merlin?
MERLIN
I need to tell you something about Morgana.
ARTHUR
It's all right. We know what happened.
MERLIN
You do?
UTHER
In my time, we've won many battles, but none so important as this. Every man, every
woman and child has performed their heroic best, and I thank you, and I salute you
all. Even before the battle, we knew there was a traitor in our midst, one who was
almost the undoing of us. However, we have to thank the one person who outwitted
them, and who - almost singlehandedly - turned the battle. The Lady Morgana.
[Uther presents Morgana to the court. The court applauds.]
UTHER
For it was she who bravely entered the vault, found the magical vessel, and
destroyed it. We must be vigilant! We must stand firm against the dark forces of
magic, and ensure that they never penetrate our walls again.
[Merlin and Morgana glare at each other.]
--
MERLIN
Why is Uther so blind to her true nature?
GAIUS
I don't know, Merlin. It's a mystery. But Morgana will try again.
MERLIN
I'll be ready for her.
GAIUS
You must be careful.
MERLIN
I'm not afraid of her, Gaius.
GAIUS
You should be.
MERLIN
No. All I feel for her is...sad. She's become so bitter, so full of hate.
GAIUS
Don't let that happen to you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Nothing could ever make me that angry.
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
Get your lazy backside out here.
MERLIN
Second thought.
-----------------------------------------------
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December 4 2010, 11:10
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BBC Merlin: 3x03 Goblin's Gold
<<< EPISODE 3X02 │ EPISODE 3x04 >>>
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:12, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF RECORDS - DAY]
GEOFFREY
Yes?
MERLIN
Gaius asked me to fetch a book. The er...Bestiary of Phylum of Cambria?
GEOFFREY
The Bestiary? I haven't seen that for many years. It'll be somewhere in the east
wing. No idea where.
[Merlin turns to his right and starts walking.]
GEOFFREY
East is that way.
[Geoffrey points in the opposite direction and Merlin turns around to walk that
direction.]
MERLIN
Yeah.
[Merlin walks down to a particular row and finds the Bestiary on the top shelf of a
very tall bookcase.]
MERLIN
Great.
[Merlin tries to jump for it and climb the bookcase and ends up triggering a secret
door. Merlin enters a hidden chamber and finds a magic book. He bumps into an
octagonal box and something grumbles and pounds against the insides of it. Merlin
sets the box upright.]
MERLIN
Unluc scrin.
[The box unlocks and Merlin opens it. A goblin jumps out and Merlin falls
backwards.]
GOBLIN
Boo!
--
[03:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF RECORDS SECRET CHAMBER - DAY]
GOBLIN
Are you going to say something, or shall I?
MERLIN
You can speak.
GOBLIN
You're a sharp one.
[The goblin stretches.]
GOBLIN
Ooh, ah. I can't tell you how good it feels to be able to do that. And that. And
this.
MERLIN
Shh.
GOBLIN
I have been squished and squashed inside that box for more than 50 years! Time to
have some fun.
[The goblin jumps up onto a bookcase and starts tossing objects at Merlin.]
GOBLIN
Whoo! There you go!
MERLIN
Have fun quietly. It's just...very quietly.
GOBLIN
Uh-oh.
[The goblin threatens to drop a vase.]
MERLIN
No. You are going to get us both into serious trouble.
GOBLIN
Oh, oh, oh!
[The goblin drops the vase and it smashes into bits.]
GOBLIN
Oh dear, what a shame. Never mind.
MERLIN
Right. That's it. You are going back in that box while I work out what to do with
you.
GOBLIN
Oh. All right. If I really must.
[The goblin sulks towards the box.]
MERLIN
In.
[The goblin climbs onto the box and then jumps onto Merlin's head.]
GOBLIN
Ha-ha! Fooled you!
[The goblin takes off.]
MERLIN
Stop messing around!
[The goblin searches through the room. Merlin sneaks up behind it with a blanket
while it rifles through a trunk.]
GOBLIN
Nah. Nah. Nah. Maybe. Nah. Nah. Nah. Nah...
MERLIN
Got you.
[Merlin grabs it with the blanket. The goblin struggles and then the blanket goes
flat. The goblin appears as a little yellow ball of light and squeezes through a
crack in the secret door.]
MERLIN
No!
[Merlin exits the secret chamber and the goblin hits him in the back of the head
with a book.]
GOBLIN
Bull's-eye!
MERLIN
Someone's going to see you!
GOBLIN
Really? I'm just having a little tidy up!
[The goblin kicks books down from a top shelf.]
GOBLIN
Look here you want to get rid of all of this. Nasty mess up here. Nobody's had a
brush up here for years! Look at it all old and...right, that's enough, I'm off.
Heehee.
[Merlin picks up the Bestiary, which the goblin knocked off the shelf, and runs to
find the goblin. He stops in the aisle where Geoffrey is standing.]
MERLIN
Found it.
GEOFFREY
Ah.
--
[06:26, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin follows the trail of wall ornaments on the floor of the corridors.]
GOBLIN
Ugh! No!
MERLIN
No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
GOBLIN
No! No! None here! Argh.
[The goblin shoves a boot out from under Arthur's bed.]
GOBLIN
None under here either!
[Merlin looks under the bed for the goblin.]
ARTHUR
Merlin. I really hope, for your sake, you have a good explanation for this.
MERLIN
I...do have a good explanation. I'm spring cleaning.
ARTHUR
It isn't spring, and it certainly isn't clean.
MERLIN
That's because I've only just started. Yeah, you wait until I've finished. You'll
be able to eat your dinner off the floor. Not that you want to.
[The goblin searches through something outside Arthur's chambers.]
ARTHUR
What was that?
MERLIN
Why don't I go and see, and you can make yourself comfortable.
--
[07:34, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
GOBLIN
Nearly, nearly, nearly.
[Merlin sees the goblin tossing bracelets out of Morgana's jewellery box.]
MERLIN
No.
[The goblin sees Merlin and jumps out the window with Morgana's healing bracelet.
Merlin hurries to put Morgana's jewellery back in the box. Gwen enters behind him
and clears her throat.]
GWEN
I'm really not sure it suits you, Merlin.
--
[08:07, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin and Gaius flip through a book.]
MERLIN
That's it.
GAIUS
Seems you've unleashed a goblin.
MERLIN
I know that face. That's not good, is it?
GAIUS
Goblins are the most mischievous of creatures. Mischievous and dangerous.
MERLIN
Didn't seem dangerous.
GAIUS
Believe me, Merlin, goblins will stop at nothing to get their hands on the one
thing they value above all others: gold.
[Arthur enters.]
ARTHUR
You're needed, Gaius, for a matter of great urgency and extreme delicacy.
GAIUS
What is it?
ARTHUR
It's my father.
--
[08:41, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CORRIDOR - DAY]
ARTHUR
I should warn you, if you value your lives, do not even think about laughing.
--
[08:54, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
ARTHUR
Father?
UTHER
I'm behind the screen.
[Gaius and Merlin find bald Uther hunched down in a chair behind a changing screen
with his arms crossed.]
--
[09:23, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR - DAY]
GAIUS
Only an enchantment could cause Uther to lose his hair like that. I've no doubt the
goblin is to blame. We must catch it before it does any real damage.
[Merlin starts laughing.]
MERLIN
Did you see Uther's face?
GAIUS
Merlin, what do you think Uther will do to the person responsible for releasing the
goblin?
MERLIN
We need to catch it. How do we do that?
GAIUS
We need to set a trap. And for that we need gold, and plenty of it.
--
[09:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin pulls a money chest out from under Arthur's bed while Arthur's asleep.
Merlin knocks over some dishes on the table on his way out. Arthur wakes.]
ARTHUR
Who's there?
[Arthur stands up on his bed and draws a sword.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Oferbrædels ahries.
[The spell drops the canopy on top of Arthur and Arthur falls to the floor. Merlin
laughs to himself as Arthur flails under the canopy.]
ARTHUR
Guards!
[Merlin leaves in a hurry.]
--
[10:51, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin tosses a gold coin down the corridor for the goblin to find.]
GOBLIN
Lovely gold.
[The goblin picks up the coin and licks it, then follows the trail that Merlin and
Gaius have laid out into a storage room. The goblin rejoices at the sight of the
chest of gold coins. Gaius closes the door and Merlin grabs the goblin with a
blanket. The goblin turns into a little ball of light again and buzzes into Gaius's
ear.]
MERLIN
Gaius, did you see where it went?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
You let it escape you stupid boy! Now you just stand there like a sack of potatoes.
Go after it! Go! Shoo! Shoo!
[Merlin leaves and Goblin (Gaius) licks the gold in the chest.]
--
[12:20, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Goblin (Gaius) tosses objects from the shelves.]
MERLIN
I've searched the entire palace. There's no sign of the goblin any...what happened?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
It's that pesky goblin! You let it escape and it's ransacked my premises! You've
got some cleaning up to do. Clean! Clean!
MERLIN
Where you going?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I'm going to the tavern.
MERLIN
You never go to the tavern.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Then I shall see what I've been missing.
--
[12:54, INT. LOWER TOWN, THE RISING SUN - NIGHT]
[Gaius enters as the tavern folk are cheering over arm wrestling match. The winner
takes the gold on the table and Goblin (Gaius) licks his lips. Goblin (Gaius)
places his gold coins on the table in front of the winner.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Shall we arm wrestle, or do you require a moment to recover what little strength
you have?
[Goblin (Gaius) wins the match and takes the gold, licking his lips.]
--
[Goblin (Gaius) belches as Merlin exits his chamber.]
MERLIN
Oof, you look terrible. How much did you drink last night?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
You don't look so good yourself. What's your excuse?
MERLIN
What?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Shh. Too much talking. I have a head like the inside of a drum, and a mouth like a
badger's armpit.
MERLIN
Ugh, badger's armpit.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Make yourself useful. Go to the market and fetch my breakfast. Away! Go!
[Merlin leaves and Goblin (Gaius) pulls out the chest of gold and jewellery.
Morgana enters.]
MORGANA
Gaius?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Yes, yes. What is it?
MORGANA
I couldn't sleep last night. My healing bracelet's been stolen.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Oh, tragedy. Travesty. Whoever stole it should be hanged, flogged, and hanged
again.
MORGANA
I was hoping you could give me a sleeping draught?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
A sleeping draught? Can't you count sheep like everyone else? Why are you bothering
me with such things? Shoo!
MORGANA
I don't know why you're being like this, Gaius. I'm the King's ward and you shall
do as I ask.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Ooooh, shall I now?
[Goblin (Gaius) walks closer to Morgana and looks into her eyes.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I can see deep into your heart, and it's cold. Cold as stone. You play at being
Uther's loving ward. You play it so well you fool him, but you don't fool me. You
would see Uther dead and Camelot destroyed.
MORGANA
Why would you say such a thing?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Because it's the truth. There is evil in your heart.
MORGANA
I don't know what's come over you. You were always such a good friend to me.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I see the truth frightens you.
MORGANA
It's you that frightens me.
[Morgana walks to the door.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Do you not want your sleeping draught after all, Lady Morgana?
[Morgana stops and looks at Gaius.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
One moment.
[Goblin (Gaius) magically creates a potion and hands it to Morgana.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Sweet dreams. Do come back and see me anytime.
[Morgana takes the potion and marches out with a scowl.]
--
[16:43, INT. LOWER TOWN, TOM AND ROSE’S HOUSE - DAY]
[Goblin (Gaius) holds up the arms of a man who is lying in bed.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Say "Ah, ooh, ah, ooh, ah, oooooh!"
TOM
Ah, ooh, ah, ooh, ah, oooooh!
[Gaius drops Tom's arms and turns to his wife, Rose.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
He's certain to die.
TOM
I don't feel like I'm dying.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
If you value your life, you won't say another word, it could kill you instantly.
Shh.
ROSE
I believed he had a broken rib.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
A broken rib that's become infected with the most severe and terrifying infection
that can only be treated by this remedy.
[Goblin (Gaius) pulls out a potion bottle.]
ROSE
Ah.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Alas, it's very expensive.
ROSE
Oh, we do not have any money to spare.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
In that case, your husband will die, and you'll spend the rest of your life in
poverty and misery before dying a lonely, cold death, which is no less than you
deserve.
[Tom makes noises with his mouth shut and motions for Rose to pay Gaius. Gaius
continues visiting townspeople and demanding payment.]
--
[17:48, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE - DAY]
GWEN
What can I do for you?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
It's more a question of what I can do for you.
[Goblin (Gaius) grabs Gwen's face and looks her over.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Ah, it seems you're developing the symptoms already.
GWEN
Symptoms for what?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
The most severe and terrifying infection that is sweeping through Camelot like a
plague.
GWEN
I haven't heard anything about an infection.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
That's because those who catch it are immediately struck dumb. Fortunately I have
developed a very effective cure. It is yours in exchange for a gold coin.
GWEN
Very funny.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Is it? I don't hear anyone laughing.
GWEN
You've never charged me for remedies before.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Then I've clearly been a fool. Do you wish for a cure, or do you wish to walk
around with a face covered in boils and your nose dripping with snot?
GWEN
Boils?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Big, pussy boils. Bigger than you've ever seen.
GWEN
I'll fetch a coin.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Come on, come on, I haven't got all day.
[Gwen hands him the coin and Goblin (Gaius) hands her the fake remedy. She catches
him licking his lips.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
A most wise decision.
--
[19:04, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
UTHER
You're sure this treatment will work, Gaius?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I'm quite certain of it, My Lord.
UTHER
Is it really necessary to slap my head like that?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Completely and utterly necessary. We must restore the circulation to the scalp. You
wish your hair to grow back, My Lord?
UTHER
Get on with it, then.
--
MERLIN
You're the goblin!
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Have you lost your mind?
MERLIN
No, but you have! Or at least it's been taken over.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Don't be ridiculous.
MERLIN
I know Gaius as well as I know myself, and you are not him
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Ah, you've got me. How d'you like my new body? It's a bit old and creaky, but it's
ever so much fun.
MERLIN
It's not your body, it's Gaius's. What've you done with him?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
He's still in here somewhere.
MERLIN
Gaius has done you no harm. Leave him.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
All right. You've convinced me. On second thought, I think I'll stay where I am. I
like it in here. The freedom, the gold, the beer. Did I mention the gold?
MERLIN
If you hurt Gaius...I will kill you.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
You'll be killing him. You see the problem? I'm him, he's me. We're all jumbled up
in here.
--
ARTHUR
There have been instances of vandalism around the palace, as well as a number of
thefts. I, myself, was a victim. Unfortunately, the thief managed to elude me.
[Gwen farts and the court stares at her. Morgana farts.]
UTHER
Double the guard. I want the perpetrator found.
[Uther farts.]
ARTHUR
Yes, My Lord.
UTHER
The council is dismissed!
[Flatulence continues.]
UTHER
Now!
[Everyone rushes out except Uther, Gaius, and Arthur.]
UTHER
Gaius, is there anything you can do to treat this?
--
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Tell me you didn't think that was funny.
[Merlin gives Goblin (Gaius) a stone-faced glare.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Not even a little bit? Just a teeny-weeny bit?
MERLIN
If you carry on like this, you're going to get Gaius killed.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Merlin, you underestimate me. I have cured Uther of his farting and his baldness.
He is, he tells me, forever in my debt. I am a genius.
MERLIN
This has to stop.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I see no reason why. Now, if you're quite finished, I'm going to the tavern.
MERLIN
Bord, wiþ stende hine.
[Merlin's spell shuts the door so Goblin (Gaius) can't leave.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Well, well, well. So you have a secret of your own, Merlin.
MERLIN
Leave his body or you will regret it.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Your magic may be powerful, but I have an advantage.
MERLIN
What's that?
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I can hurt you...
[Goblin (Gaius) magically throws a dagger at Merlin.]
MERLIN
Culter, ic þe hate!
[Merlin's spell stops the dagger and he sends it back at Gaius, stopping just
before it reaches Gaius's face.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Whereas, you cannot hurt me without hurting Gaius.
MERLIN
I won't rest till I've found a way to force you out of Gaius's body.
--
GEOFFREY
Ah, Gaius. I've been meaning to come and see you. I've got this terrible pain in my
leg.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
That's hardly surprising when it has to support that enormous gut. Lose some
weight, fatty.
[Goblin (Gaius) enters the secret chamber and takes the magic book Merlin
discovered earlier.]
--
[Merlin searches for Arthur.]
MERLIN
Arthur.
[Merlin finds Arthur in the central corridor, followed by two guards.]
MERLIN
Arthur, I have to talk to you.
ARTHUR
Arrest him.
MERLIN
What? Arthur, what are you doing?
--
UTHER
Is it true? You were responsible for the afflictions that I and other members of
the court have suffered?
MERLIN
What? No.
UTHER
Gaius.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I found this in your room. It's a book of spells and enchantments.
MERLIN
He's lying. That's not Gaius.
ARTHUR
MERLIN
He's been possessed by a goblin.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
The boy is reduced to making the most desperate and ridiculous accusations.
UTHER
You seriously expect me to believe that Gaius is a goblin?
ARTHUR
It's, it's controlling him. Gaius is still in there...somewhere.
ARTHUR
Do you have any proof of these accusations?
MERLIN
No!
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I fear that magic has corrupted you. It pains me more than I can tell you.
MERLIN
I really doubt that.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
My Lord, I have been harbouring a sorcerer. For that I offer the most sincere
apology.
UTHER
You were not to know, Gaius. He's fooled us all.
MERLIN
It's not me that's fooling you.
UTHER
Silence! You've been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. In accordance
with our laws, you will pay with your life. Take him away!
--
[Goblin (Gaius) bumps into Sir Leon.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Clumsy oaf.
SIR LEON
Gaius? I will pretend that I didn't hear that.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Are you deaf as well as stupid?
SIR LEON
I am a knight of Camelot and you will show me some respect.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Fool, then I'll show you none.
SIR LEON
You will learn some manners, or I will teach you some.
[Gaius spits his drink in Sir Leon's face. Sir Leon draws his sword.]
SIR LEON
You may be old, but I cannot let this pass! Arm yourself!
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I'm just a foolish old man who’s had far too much to drink. Please accept my
apologies. A flagon of ale for my friends!
SIR LEON
Then I accept your apology.
[Goblin (Gaius) puts a potion in a flagon of ale and brings it over to Sir Leon's
table.]
SIR LEON
Gaius.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
My apologies again. Don't know what came over me.
SIR LEON
It is forgotten.
--
[27:37, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - NIGHT]
MERLIN
Cæga cume her.
[Merlin floats the cell keys off of the sleeping guard's belt. Merlin escapes and
tries to sneak past the drawbridge into the lower town. Guards spot him when the
warning bells sound. Merlin runs.]
--
[28:15, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Gwen wakes to the sound of the warning bells. Something creaks in her house and
she grabs a candlestick as she climbs out of bed to investigate. Merlin grabs her
from behind to muffle her scream and turns her around.]
MERLIN
Shh!
[Guards run past outside.]
--
ARTHUR
Merlin has escaped. It seems he somehow managed to obtain a set of keys.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Escape?! How is this allowed to happen? Incompetence!
[Uther and Arthur stare at Goblin (Gaius).]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I didn't mean to speak out of turn, My Lord.
UTHER
Gaius is right, this is unacceptable. The guards should be punished.
ARTHUR
I'll see to it personally.
UTHER
Search the town, I want Merlin found.
ARTHUR
Yes, Sire.
--
MERLIN
We need to force the goblin out of Gaius.
GWEN
And how do we do that?
MERLIN
I don't know. I'll try to sneak back to Gaius's chambers. Maybe I can find
something in one of his books.
GWEN
What can I do?
MERLIN
Well, we need to convince Arthur. Maybe if you speak to him, he might listen to
you.
GWEN
No, I can't.
MERLIN
Why?
GWEN
After what happened in the council yesterday, I'll never be able to look Arthur in
the face again.
MERLIN
I know, it's embarrassing.
GWEN
It's more than embarrassing, Merlin! I cannot face him, ever.
MERLIN
Come on, Gwen. It's not that bad. All girls do it, don't they?
GWEN
Not in public! And certainly not in front of the man they have feelings for!
MERLIN
You still have feelings for Arthur.
GWEN
Not that it matters now, because he will never be able to look at me in the same
way again.
MERLIN
Gwen, if Arthur likes you, he likes you. Warts and farts and all.
GWEN
Merlin, I haven't got any warts.
MERLIN
Then...you'll talk to him?
[Gwen can’t resist his adorable smile and sighs in defeat.]
--
[Someone knocks on the door.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Gaius, come in.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I believe you wanted to see me.
ARTHUR
I wanted to thank you in person. It couldn't've been easy for you exposing Merlin
like that.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
My loyalty to Camelot and your father comes first.
ARTHUR
And it is much appreciated. I should also thank you for ridding me of the most
incompetent, rude, and lazy servant that Camelot has ever known.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
I'm just sorry you had to suffer his ineptitude for so long.
ARTHUR
And when we catch him, you'll see him hang.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Ah, I shall look forward to that.
[Goblin (Gaius) lifts the drink Arthur poured for him. Arthur stares at Goblin
(Gaius).]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
Is something wrong?
ARTHUR
The Gaius I know would never look forward to seeing Merlin hang no matter what he'd
done.
[Arthur draws his sword on Goblin (Gaius).]
ARTHUR
Merlin was telling the truth.
[Goblin (Gaius) magically smashes a vase over Arthur's head, knocking him
unconscious. Goblin (Gaius) casts a spell on Arthur as he exits.]
--
[31:22, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gwen walks purposefully towards Arthur's chambers. Goblin (Gaius) ducks into an
alcove to avoid being seen.]
--
[Gwen approaches Arthur's door hesitantly. She raises her arm to knock, starts to
run away, stops, returns to the door, and finally works up the courage to knock.
Something makes a honking noise on the other side of the door.]
GWEN
Arthur? Arthur, it's Guinevere. Can I come in?
[Another honking noise comes through the door. Gwen enters and walks towards the
bed.]
GWEN
Arthur? Arthur?
[Gwen rounds the corner of the bed post and sees Arthur hunched down on the floor
with donkey ears. Gwen gasps.]
GWEN
What's happened to you?
[Arthur brays.]
GWEN
Did Gaius do this to you?
[Arthur brays “Yes”.]
GWEN
He's a goblin.
[Arthur brays “I know”.]
GWEN
Poor thing.
[Gwen pets one of Arthur's donkey ears. Arthur leans into her hand in pleasure,
then brays indignantly.]
GWEN
Sorry. Merlin's working on a plan. We'll figure out what to do. Stay here.
--
MERLIN
Arthur's a donkey?
GWEN
He has the ears of a donkey. And the voice. He-- he's braying.
MERLIN
He's...braying.
[Merlin bursts out laughing.]
GWEN
It's not funny, Merlin.
MERLIN
No. No, no, of course not. Arthur with the ears of a donkey, what's funny about
that?
GWEN
He just looked so pitiful. I've never seen Arthur look like that. Did you find
anything?
MERLIN
I think so.
[Merlin places his hand on a book from the physician's chambers.]
MERLIN
If the host body dies, the goblin dies with it. So, if Gaius is dying, the goblin
will be forced to leave him.
GWEN
You want to kill Gaius?
MERLIN
Just briefly. Once the goblin's out of Gaius, we have to trap it in a box lined
with lead. It's the only container that will hold it.
GWEN
Where do we get a box lined with lead?
MERLIN
Leave that to me.
--
MERLIN (whisper)
Oþfiel æstel!
[Merlin's spell pulls and object from a shelf and drops it on Geoffrey of
Monmouth's foot.]
GEOFFREY
Ow!
[Merlin runs past unseen and enters the secret chamber to grab the Goblin's
octagonal box.]
--
SIR LEON
It is the same for all of us who were in the tavern last night.
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
That is most unfortunate.
[Sir Leon's face is covered in boils.]
SIR LEON
Please, can you treat it?
GOBLIN (GAIUS) *sigh*
The infection has no cure. The itching will become almost unbearable.
SIR LEON
Itching? There is no itching!
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
There will be soon enough. Itching so severe it has been known to drive men to
madness.
SIR LEON
Gaius, please, there must be some remedy. We will pay whatever it takes.
--
[Gwen keeps a lookout while Merlin makes poison and an antidote.]
GWEN
Hurry up!
MERLIN
I'm doing my best. Gaius normally deals with anything to do with poisons.
[Merlin pours the poison over the gold and jewellery in the stolen money chest.]
MERLIN
As soon as the goblin's out of Gaius, you must give him the antidote. We only have
a few seconds or Gaius will, you know, die.
GWEN
He's coming!
[Merlin hands Gwen the antidote and puts the chest back into hiding. Merlin and
Gwen hide in Merlin's chamber and watch as Goblin (Gaius) takes out the chest and
licks the gold coins.]
GWEN
Ugh, that's disgusting.
[Goblin (Gaius) begins to stumble and Merlin exits his chamber with the octagonal
box.]
GOBLIN (GAIUS)
You've poisoned me. You poisoned Gaius!
MERLIN
Leave his body while you still can!
[The goblin exits Gaius's ear as a little ball of light and buzzes around the room.
Gaius falls to the floor.]
MERLIN
Give him the antidote!
[Gwen rushes towards Gaius, but the goblin buzzes past her and she stumbles into a
table. Gwen drops the antidote and sends dozens of other potion bottles to the
floor with it.]
MERLIN
Back in the box.
GOBLIN
You'll have to catch me first!
[Merlin chases the fully embodied Goblin. It turns back into a ball of light and
flies into Merlin's mouth. Merlin spits it into the octagonal box and locks it in.]
GOBLIN
Oh, no let me out, I promise I won't do it again.
GWEN
I don't know which one's the antidote! Which one is it?
MERLIN
I don't know.
GWEN
He's dying!
MERLIN
I think it's this one.
[Gwen gives Merlin and "Are you sure?" look and Merlin keeps searching. He picks up
another bottle.]
MERLIN
Er...this one.
[Merlin turns Gaius over and pours the potion into his mouth.]
GWEN
Are you sure that was the antidote?
MERLIN
No. Gaius! Come on! Please! Come on, you stubborn old goat!
GAIUS
Who are you calling an old goat?
--
UTHER
You mean to tell me it was you who was responsible for the, er...baldness, the
flatulence, the boils, and Arthur's donkey ears?
GAIUS
I fear I was, My Lord. Or at least the goblin was while I was possessed by it.
UTHER
Magic has the power to corrupt even the most honourable of men.
GAIUS
Indeed. Though, I must assure you that Merlin was entirely innocent.
UTHER
Then he is pardoned.
[The goblin struggles and grumbles inside the octagonal box.]
GAIUS
May I suggest it is kept where no one will ever open it?
UTHER
See that it's placed in the vaults. Gaius...do you know who was responsible for
releasing the goblin in the first place?
GAIUS
I'm afraid I've no idea, My Lord.
UTHER
Now. Secure it now.
--
[Gwen and Arthur stop awkwardly when they see each other.]
GWEN
My Lord.
ARTHUR
Guinevere. The, er...events of the last few days, I, er...I think it would be best
if we...never spoke of them.
GWEN
I don't even know what events you're referring to.
ARTHUR
Quite. It's...it's been entirely uneventful. I need to train my men.
GWEN
I must see to the sheets.
[Arthur and Gwen walk past each other and sigh in relief.]
--
GAIUS
I see you've been busy undoing the goblin's magic.
MERLIN
As usual, I get no thanks whatsoever.
GAIUS
Since releasing the goblin was entirely your fault, Merlin, I'm not sure you
deserve any thanks.
MERLIN
Wha...Arthur doesn't know that.
GAIUS
For your sake, you better hope it stays that way.
[Arthur knocks over the knight that he's fighting and laughs. Onlookers laugh with
him. Arthur's laugh becomes a bray. The other knights stop laughing, but grin
silently as Arthur clears his throat.]
GAIUS (reprimand)
Merlin.
MERLIN
Just one more day. It's too good.
-----------------------------------------------
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December 6 2010, 18:27
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BBC Merlin: 3x04 Gwaine
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:25, EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur ride to a hill overlooking a small village.]
ARTHUR
You know what you need after a hard day's hunt?
MERLIN
Sleep.
ARTHUR
I nice cold tankard of mead.
MERLIN
Mead.
--
[00:41, EXT. COUNTRYSIDE, VILLAGE - DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin dismount and tie their horses up in the small village.]
ARTHUR
No better place to measure the mood of your people than the local tavern.
MERLIN
This is one of those moments where I tell you something isn't a good idea and you
ignore me, isn't it?
ARTHUR
You're learning, Merlin. Slowly, but you're learning. Now, remember, in here you're
not my servant, I'm just a simple peasant like everyone else.
MERLIN
Simple part's right.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
I said, the sun is very bright.
ARTHUR
Yeah. Yeah, it is.
--
[01:19, INT. COUNTRYSIDE, VILLAGE TAVERN - DAY]
MARY
Afternoon. What'll it be?
ARTHUR
Er...
MARY
Mmm. You're an handsome fellow.
ARTHUR
Well, you wouldn't be the first to say it.
MARY
Oh, no, sorry. I was talking about your friend here.
ARTHUR
Him?
MERLIN
Thank you.
ARTHUR
Two tankards of mead, please.
MERLIN
I was wrong. Coming here was a great idea.
[Dagr enters. The tavern goes quiet.]
DAGR
Afternoon, Mary. Business looks good.
MARY
We have our better days.
DAGR
I don't suppose you'd begrudge me my share, then.
[Mary throws him some coins.]
DAGR
And the rest?
MARY
That's all we got.
[Dagr grabs the front of Mary's shirt and pulls a dagger on her.]
DAGR
I'll not ask again!
ARTHUR
Take your hands off her.
[Dagr attacks Arthur. Arthur throws Dagr into a shelf.]
DAGR
I'm gonna make you pay for that.
MERLIN (chuckles)
I'd like to see you try.
[Dagr whistles and a group of tough looking men enter the tavern.]
ARTHUR
You had to open your big mouth, didn't you Merlin?
GWAINE
You two have got yourselves in a bit of a pickle, haven't you?
ARTHUR
You should get out of here while you have the chance.
GWAINE
You're probably right.
[Gwaine takes a swig from his drink, hands the drink to Dagr and punches him. A
brawl ensues.]
MERLIN
Arthur!
ARTHUR
Merlin! Behind you!
[A man throws a chair. Merlin ducks.]
MERLIN
Ætslide bencþel.
[Merlin's spell throws a bench at two large men marching toward him. Mary tries to
rescue her merchandise. Merlin slides under the bar and Mary help him knock out
Ebor. Merlin magically throws plates at another attacker and Gwaine approaches the
counter as he knocks out the man he has in a headlock.]
GWAINE
Pass the jug, heh?
[Merlin hands Gwaine the jug. Gwaine takes a swig, then punches an attacker behind
him.]
GWAINE
What do they call you, then?
MERLIN
Merlin.
GWAINE
Gwaine. Pleasure to meet you.
[Gwaine smashes the jug on another attacker's head.]
GWAINE
Such a waste, heh?
[Arthur fights Dagr. Dagr pulls a knife. Gwaine lunges at Dagr, but takes a knife
to the thigh. Gwaine tries to get up, but falls over and knocks himself out on a
bench. Merlin examines Gwaine.]
ARTHUR
How is he?
[Merlin's bandages Gwaine's leg.]
MERLIN
Not good. He's losing a lot of blood.
--
[05:18, EXT. COUNTRYSIDE, VILLAGE - DAY]
[Peasants throw rotten food at Dagr in the stocks outside the tavern. Gwaine is
slung over Arthur's horse.]
ARTHUR
If this man ever troubles you again, word is to be sent to Camelot. Soldiers will
be here within a day.
MARY
How can you make a promise like that?
ARTHUR
Because I'm the King's son, Prince Arthur.
[Arthur and Merlin ride off.]
MARY
Prince Arthur? Prince Arthur in my tavern? Come on!
[Mary and other peasants pelt Dagr with rotten food.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur set Gwaine down on the bed.]
GAIUS
Merlin, fetch me some fresh water, towels, a needle, and silk thread.
MERLIN
And honey?
GAIUS
You're learning.
[Arthur looks at Gaius for explanation.]
GAIUS
Helps fight the infection.
ARTHUR
Will he be alright?
GAIUS
Providing he's strong.
ARTHUR
He's that, alright. The man saved my life, Gaius. He's to be given anything he
needs.
--
[06:56, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - DAY]
[Gwaine wakes and Merlin enters with a breakfast tray.]
GWAINE
What am I doing in this bed?
MERLIN
You were wounded. Arthur wanted to make sure you were treated by his physician.
GWAINE
Arthur?
MERLIN
Prince Arthur. You saved his life.
GWAINE
If I'd known who he was, I probably wouldn't have. He's a noble.
MERLIN
Yeah, but he's a good man.
GWAINE (snort)
If you say so.
MERLIN
You're a hero. The King wants to thank you in person.
GWAINE
Please, no. I've met a few kings. Once you've met one, you've...you've met them
all.
MERLIN
He'll probably give you a reward.
GWAINE
I'm not interested. Besides, I've got everything I need right here.
MERLIN
Why did you help us?
GWAINE
Your chances looked between slim and none. I, er...I guess I just kind of like the
look of those odds.
--
ARTHUR
How's Gawain?
MERLIN
Recovering.
[Merlin looks out the window.]
MERLIN
Who's that?
[Arthur goes to the window to see a knight riding into the Square.]
ARTHUR
Ahh, Sir Darien. He's here for the mêlée.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah. The tournament where the knights ride around hitting each other with
blunt weapons for no good reason.
ARTHUR
A little more to it than that.
MERLIN
Really? All I've ever seen is people getting the seven bells knocked out of them so
that the last man standing can be called the winner.
ARTHUR
The mêlée is the ultimate test of strength and courage.
MERLIN
Are you sure we're talking about the same thing?
ARTHUR
Well, I wouldn't expect you to understand. You're not a knight.
MERLIN
Oh, well if it means I don't get clobbered 'round the head, I'm glad of it.
ARTHUR
I'm afraid it doesn't.
[Arthur throws a cup at the back of Merlin's head.]
MERLIN
Ow!
[Arthur nods his head towards the armour sitting on the table.]
ARTHUR
I need that lot cleaned by noon.
[Merlin rubs his neck.]
MERLIN
Agh.
--
[09:06, INT. CYLFERTH'S SHOP - DAY]
CYLFERTH
The Stalorne blades, just as you requested.
[Dagr and Ebor inspect one of the swords.]
EBOR
They're blunt.
DAGR
That is only how they appear.
[Dagr cuts Ebor's shirt with the sword.]
EBOR & DAGR

Muahahahaha.
CYLFERTH
Why should you want such a weapon?
DAGR
That's none of your business, old man. You have the crystals?
CYLFERTH
Money first.
[Dagr tosses Cylferth a pouch. Cylferth fetches a box and Dagr reaches for it.]
CYLFERTH
Not yet. Þece treowee andwlitan heora fram gesiht eallra.
[The spell makes the crystals glow.]
CYLFERTH
The wearer of these crystals will be able to take on the form of whoever's blood
they touch.
[Cylferth laughs.]
DAGR
Thank you.
CYLFERTH
Thank you.
[Dagr runs Cylferth through with one of the Stalorne blades.]
EBOR
Now what?
DAGR
Now, Ebor, we can take our revenge on Prince Arthur of Camelot.
EBOR & DAGR

Muahahahaha.
--
[Gwaine puts on his boots, opens the window and looks down on Camelot.]
--
[11:39, EXT. LOWER TOWN - DAY]
[Gwaine spots Gwen, snatches a flower from the basket of a girl passing by, and
presents it to Gwen.]
GWAINE
I believe this belongs to you.
GWEN
I don't think so. It's not my colour.
GWAINE
Ah, well....let us see.
[Gwaine puts the flower in Gwen's hair.]
GWEN
I bet you've got a whole bunch of those to hand out.
GWAINE
No. Yours is the only one.
[Gwaine holds up empty hands as proof. Gwen scoffs and tries to move past him.]
GWAINE
I'm Gawain.
[Gwaine holds out his hand. Gwen shakes it and keeps walking. Gwaine doesn't let go
and pulls her back.]
GWAINE
You haven't told me your name. You look like a princess to me. So it's probably
something like Sophia or...or Esmeralda. That's it. Princess Esmeralda.
[Gwaine bows to Gwen.]
GWEN
Stop it. People are staring.
GWAINE
Not until you tell me your name.
GWEN
It's Gwen.
GWAINE
There. That wasn't so hard now, was it?
[Gwen tries to move past him.]
GWAINE
Let me carry that. A princess shouldn't have to lump her washing around.
GWEN
Unfortunately I'm not a princess.
GWAINE
Ah, but you see...you are to me.
[Gwen laughs.]
GWAINE
This isn't working, is it?
GWEN
No, not really. But I like that you tried, and that you know when to give up.
[Gwen takes the flower out of her hair and hands it to Gwaine.]
GWEN
You'd better have this, in case someone else takes your fancy.
[Gwen continues down the street.]
GWAINE
I've only eyes for you.
GWEN
I'm sure.
[Gwaine chuckles as he turns to walk up the street.]
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
SIR ETHAN
How much further would you say it is to Camelot?
SIR OSWALD
Half a day's ride. The journey is almost over.
DAGR
It is for you.
[Sir Ethan sees Dagr rushing in for the attack.]
SIR ETHAN
Oswald!
[Dagr stabs Oswald. Ebor takes down Sir Ethan from behind. A servant exits one of
the tents.]
EBOR
Dagr!
[Dagr throws a knife into the servant's back.]
DAGR
The crystals.
[Ebor opens box. Dagr wipes blood on one of the crystal necklaces and puts it on.]
EBOR
You look good, Dagr.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Sir Oswald.
EBOR
Sorry, Sire.
[Ebor bows.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

That's alright.
[Dagr (Oswald) takes the box and hands the second crystal necklace to Ebor.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Your turn. Then we can take our rightful place in the mêlée.
--
[14:34, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
[Dagr (Oswald) and Ebor (Ethan) ride into the Square. Arthur and Merlin greet
them.]
ARTHUR
Sir Oswald! Didn't think you'd be brave enough to show up.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

And miss the chance of putting you on your backside?
ARTHUR
Ha-ha. You've never managed it before.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

That was then. This is now.
[Arthur gives him a friendly punch and turns to the unfamiliar Sir Ethan.]
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

Sir Ethan.
[Arthur and Ebor (Ethan) grasp arms.]
ARTHUR
This is my servant, Merlin. He loves hard work so, anything you need, just give him
a call.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Believe me, I will.
--
[15:06, INT. KING’S PALACE, SIR ETHAN'S AND SIR OSWALD'S GUEST CHAMBER - DAY]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Merlin!
[Merlin enters carrying a large trunk.]
MERLIN
Here it is.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

MERLIN
What? It weighs a ton. The stairs...seven flights.
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)
That's very kind of you.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

But you can't leave it there.
MERLIN
I can't?
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

It's in the way.
MERLIN
OK, where do you want it?
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

Over there, by the bed.
[Merlin picks up the trunk and moves it.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Oh, no. The...other side.
[Merlin drags the trunk to the other side of the bed.]
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

It's going to get in my way there.
MERLIN
Where do you want it?
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

On top of the wardrobe.
MERLIN
On top?
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

You're absolutely right, Oswald. That's exactly where it should be.
MERLIN (pants)
Er...
[Merlin puts the trunk on top of the wardrobe. Dagr (Oswald) opens the latch and
everything falls out.]
--
[Merlin quickly slurps his pea soup.]
GAIUS
It's very hard to work out whether you are eating or inhaling that soup.
MERLIN
I haven't had anything all day. Sir Oswald had me at his beck and call.
GAIUS
How is he?
MERLIN
Awful. He treats me like dirt.
GAIUS
That doesn't sound like the young man I knew. He always struck me as a rather kind
and thoughtful soul.
MERLIN
He must have changed.
GAIUS
You must remember that not all masters are as good to their servants as Arthur.
[Merlin spits his soup in Gaius's face.]
GAIUS
Thank you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Sorry.
[The door opens and Gwen peeks in.]
GWEN
Merlin, I think you need to come with me.
--
MERLIN
You drank all this?
GWAINE
With some help from my new friends!
TAVERN FOLK
Yeah!
INN KEEPER
He says that he hasn't got any money. So it looks like you'll have to pay.
MERLIN
But...I can't afford this.
INN KEEPER
You better find someone who can.
[Gwaine laughs and falls over.]
--
[17:50, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin helps a staggering Gwaine into the room.]
GWAINE
You're the best friend I've ever had.
MERLIN
You seem to have quite a few.
[They laugh.]
GWAINE
I'd love to see Arthur's face when he gets that bill.
MERLIN
Right. What is it with you and nobles?
GWAINE
Oh, nothing. My father was a knight in Caerleon's army. He died in battle, leaving
my mother penniless. And when she went to the King for help, he turned her away.
MERLIN
You didn't know him?
GWAINE
Just some stories I've been told.
MERLIN
Yeah, I know how that feels. I met my father just briefly before he died.
GWAINE
Why?
MERLIN
He was banished.
GWAINE
What had he done?
MERLIN
Nothing. He served the King.
GWAINE
But the King turned against him? That doesn't surprise me.
MERLIN
Arthur's not like that.
GWAINE
Ha! Maybe. But none of them are worth dying for, heh?
[Gwaine laughs, hits his head on wall, and laughs some more.]
--
[Merlin enters with a breakfast tray.]
MERLIN
Sorry. I know, I'm late.
ARTHUR
Not at all.
MERLIN
Good.
ARTHUR
Sure you're alright? You're not sick, unsteady, about to burst into song?
MERLIN
No, why?
[Arthur picks up a piece of paper.]
ARTHUR
Fourteen quarts of mead, three flagons of wine, five quarts of cider...
MERLIN
I can explain.
ARTHUR
Four dozen pickled eggs.
MERLIN
That was Gwaine. He went to the tavern and, er..he couldn't pay for it.
ARTHUR
So you said I would.
MERLIN
Mm. You know, if I hadn't, that inn keeper...he, he would've strung us both up.
ARTHUR
I fail to see the downside.
MERLIN
You said he should be given anything he needs.
ARTHUR
Four dozen pickled eggs?!!!
MERLIN
I'm sorry...I'll pay for it.
ARTHUR
You most certainly will.
--
GWAINE
Arthur is a thoroughbred little braggart.
MERLIN
Why?
GWAINE
For making us do this.
MERLIN
I think it's fair.
GWAINE
For the entire army?
MERLIN
If you admitted your father was a knight, you wouldn't have to.
GWAINE
Maybe. But I'm not making the same mistakes that he did. Anyway, my father always
treated his servants well.
MERLIN
You didn't know him.
GWAINE
Well, I like to think that he did. What about yours?
MERLIN
No, he didn't have any servants. He didn't have...well...anyone.
GWAINE
When did he die?
MERLIN
About a year ago. I just wish that I had the chance to know him better. So much he
could've taught me.
GWAINE
But you did get to meet him.
MERLIN
Yeah.
GWAINE If there's one thing that I learned from my father's life, is that titles
don't mean anything. It's what's inside...
[Gwaine slaps Merlin's knee with the cleaning brush.]
GWAINE
...that counts.
MERLIN
Ow.
[Merlin rubs his knee.]
--
[Arthur attacks a practice dummy.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

You look like you need a bit of practice.
ARTHUR
Ah, you think so?
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

I know so.
[Arthur gestures "bring it" and Merlin hands Dagr (Oswald) a sword. Fight ensues.]
ARTHUR
You're rusty. You're not as quick as you used to be.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)
Still quick enough to hit you.
ARTHUR
I thought you were left handed?
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Yes, I am, I...
[Dagr (Oswald) switches the sword to his left hand.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

...just wanted to give you a chance. Why don't we make this more interesting? 50
gold coins first clean hit.
ARTHUR
Make it a hundred.
[Dagr (Oswald) attacks, Arthur pins his arm and taps his armour.]
ARTHUR
You can keep your money.
[Arthur leaves and Ebor (Ethan) approaches Dagr (Oswald).]
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

Don't worry, in the mêlée there'll be two of us.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

And with the Stalorne blade I will fillet the little brat.
[Dagr (Oswald) turns to Merlin who overheard them as he picked up the borrowed
sword. Dagr (Oswald) spits.]
--
[22:34, INT. KING’S PALACE, SIR ETHAN'S AND SIR OSWALD'S GUEST CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin examines the Stalorne blades and one of them cuts his finger.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

What are you doing with that, boy?
MERLIN
Wha...Er...I was just tidying...
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Keep away from things that don't concern you.
[Merlin takes dinner plates and leaves.]
--
[Gaius bandages Merlin's cut finger.]
MERLIN
To the eye the sword appeared blunt, but when I touched it...
[Merlin mimics a grimace.]
GWAINE
You were lucky. I've seen those blades in action. They're forged using sorcery.
GAIUS
What would they want with such a blade?
MERLIN
I think they mean to kill Arthur in the mêlée.
GAIUS
But in front of all those people?
GWAINE
It's the perfect cover. If they succeed, nobody will suspect it was intentional.
MERLIN
I need to warn Arthur.
GAIUS
Merlin, Sir Oswald's a knight. He comes from a well respected family. You can't
accuse him without proof.
MERLIN
Then we need that blade.
GWAINE
I'll get it.
MERLIN
What if they catch you? What reason would you have to be in Sir Oswald's chamber?
No. It's safer if I do it.
--
[Merlin sneaks into the chamber while Dagr (Oswald) is asleep. Merlin opens the
trunk to get the Stalorne blade, but he notices the crystal around Oswald's neck.
Merlin approaches the bed and sees Dagr in the crystal. Dagr (Oswald) wakes up and
grabs him.]
--
GWAINE
Merlin should be back by now.
GAIUS
I know.
GWAINE
I'm going to go see what's going on.
GAIUS
Gawain.
--
[A dagger is thrown just above Merlin's head.]
MERLIN
I was just rearranging the bed clothes, that's all!
[Dagr (Oswald) throws second dagger.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

You here that, Sir Ethan? He was just rearranging the bed clothes.
[Dagr (Oswald) throws third dagger.]
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

My mistake. He's not the snivelling thief I thought he was.
[Dagr (Oswald) attacks Merlin with a sword.]
MERLIN
I thought you might be cold!
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Of course you did.
[Merlin ducks as Dagr (Oswald) swings at him.]
GWAINE
Is there a problem here?
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

No. Now leave.
GWAINE
You alright, Merlin?
MERLIN (mouths)
No.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

I thought I told you to leave?
GWAINE
I wasn't talking to you.
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

How dare you speak to a knight like that!
[Ebor (Ethan) attacks Gwaine. Gwaine disarms Ebor (Ethan) and catches his sword.
Dagr (Oswald) attacks Gwaine.]
MERLIN
Careful!
GWAINE
Don't worry. I can handle this thug.
[Gwaine fights Dagr (Oswald), and then Ebor (Ethan) who attacks from behind. Gwaine
knocks Ebor (Ethan) down, then Dagr (Oswald) attacks from behind.]
MERLIN
Watch out!
[Gwaine disarms Dagr (Oswald). Sir Leon enters.]
SIR LEON
What's going on?
[Gwaine turns to look. Oswald backhands him, knocking Gwaine to the floor.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

This man attacked me! I demand an audience with the King!
--
[Merlin walks in with Gaius.]
MERLIN
It's not Sir Oswald. It's that thug from the tavern, Dagr. He's using a magical
crystal to change his appearance.
[Guards bring Gwaine into the council chamber in chains.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Sire, this man attacked me, with a sword, tried to kill me.
UTHER
Is this true?
GWAINE
I stepped in to protect Merlin.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

I tried to talk to him. He was like a man possessed. I'm sure that Sir Ethan will
back me up.
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

Indeed, I can vouch for his every word.
GWAINE
He's a liar!
UTHER
I will have your tongue! How dare you speak to a knight in that way?!
GWAINE
Nobility is defined by what you do, and not by who you are. And these men are
anything but. They are arrogant thugs!
ARTHUR
Gwaine.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Well, you see, Sire, how he behaves.
UTHER
I've heard enough. For a commoner to attack a nobleman is in violation of the
Knight's Code.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

I couldn't agree with you more, Sire. He must be made an example of.
ARTHUR
Sir Oswald, please.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Nothing less than his execution will give me satisfaction.
ARTHUR
Father, I understand how this must look, it's an embarrassing situation. Sir Oswald
is a dear friend, and our guest here in Camelot. But Gwaine is my guest here, too.
And he may not be of noble birth, but I can vouch that he has a noble heart.
UTHER
How can you say that when you see the way he behaves?
ARTHUR
Gwaine risked his life to save mine. I beg you, please, if a knight's word is his
bond, then I give you my word Gwaine is a good man. He deserves clemency.
UTHER
You are banished from Camelot. If you ever return, you will pay for it with your
life. You have until dawn to leave the city.
--
[28:49, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

That servant boy is onto us.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

What's he gonna do? We're knights, remember? You've seen what happens when a
commoner accuses a knight.
--
[Gwaine packs his belongings.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
GWAINE
Don't be. I never stay in one place for very long. People get sick of me too
quickly.
MERLIN
I didn't.
GWAINE
After the trouble I caused?
MERLIN
You livened the place up.
GWAINE (chuckles)
Make sure you look after Arthur. He's in danger.
MERLIN
I thought you hated nobles?
GWAINE
Heh, well...maybe that one's worth dying for, eh?
--
GWEN
I heard what happened.
GWAINE
Yeah, well, there you go.
GWEN
You did a brave thing.
GWAINE
Hell of a lot of good it did me.
GWEN
I know Arthur. He's not like Uther. You saved his life, I'm sure one day he'll
repay you.
GWAINE
He tried to speak up for me.
GWEN
Arthur's fair. He's loyal. He'll be a great king. I know he will.
GWAINE
Clearly. If he makes everyone feel the way that you do. At least now I know why you
turned me down.
GWEN
It's not just me that says that.
GWAINE
No, I'm sure it isn't. Let's hope he lives that long.
--
MERLIN
I don't know what we do.
GAIUS
I could try and persuade Arthur to withdraw from the contest.
MERLIN
He won't. I know Arthur. I'll have to somehow...use my powers to defend him.
GAIUS
With the King and half of Camelot watching?
MERLIN
I don't have a choice.
--
UTHER
Ah. I trust you're ready for the challenge?
ARTHUR
Yes, Father.
UTHER
I came to bring you this. I won my first mêlée with this blade. The edge has been
dulled, it's perfectly safe. All of Camelot is eager for a victory today, Arthur. I
know you won't let me down.
--
[31:39, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Gwen looks worriedly out Morgana's window at the townspeople walking to the
tournament grounds.]
--
[EXT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS - DAY]
[A crowd gathers. Trumpets sound.]
--
[31:57, INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, EBOR (ETHAN) AND DAGR (OSWALD)'S TENT - DAY]
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

Prince Arthur isn't going to know what's hit him.
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Oh, I hope he does. If it's over too quickly, that'll be no fun at all.
[Ebor laughs.]
DAGR (SIR OSWALD)

Ready?
EBOR (SIR ETHAN)

Absolutely.
[They clang swords in salute.]
--
MERLIN
You know those moments when I tell you something isn't a good idea?
ARTHUR
And then I ignore you, yeah.
MERLIN
And then I'm proved right?
ARTHUR
Merlin, your concern for my wellbeing is touching.
MERLIN
I'm serious. I think you should withdraw.
ARTHUR
Look, I know you think the mêlée is some kind of...stupid game, but it's more than
that. It's about proving to the people that I'm fit to lead them.
MERLIN
I know.
[Merlin hands Arthur the dull sword.]
MERLIN
Just be careful.
--
[32:54, EXT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS - DAY]
[Uther enters the stands. Merlin stands next to Gaius in the crowd. Uther gives the
signal and the mêlée ensues. Gwaine is injured by a Stalorne blade. Ebor(Ethan)
rides toward Arthur.]
MERLIN
He's heading straight for Arthur.
[Arthur ducks. Ebor (Ethan) is thrown from his horse. Gwaine is knocked off his
horse. Ebor (Ethan) goes for Arthur on foot..]
MERLIN
Arthur's in trouble.
[Ebor (Ethan) jumps and pulls Arthur off his horse, then tries to stab him. Arthur
rolls out of the way. Arthur fights with Ebor (Ethan). Dagr (Oswald) rides toward
them to attack Arthur.]
GAIUS
You'll have to do something. Otherwise, Arthur will die.
MERLIN
*spell*
[The girth breaks on Dagr (Oswald)'s saddle and he falls off his horse, then gets
up to join the fray.]
MERLIN
It's two against one.
[Gwaine gets up and joins Arthur.]
MERLIN
Who is that helping Arthur?
GAIUS
I don't know, but I think we should be thankful he is.
[Gwaine disarms Ebor (Ethan) and catches the Stalorne blade.]
MERLIN
There's only one person I know who can do that.
[Gwaine stabs Ebor (Ethan), the crowd gasps. Dagr (Oswald) knocks Arthur down and
goes for the kill. Gwaine blocks Dagr (Oswald) and stabs him with the Stalorne
blade, the crowd gasps. Arthur and Gwaine get up and face each other.]
ARTHUR
They'll expect us to fight to the end now.
[Arthur removes his helmet and the crowd cheers.]
ARTHUR
You fought bravely. The field is yours.
[Gwaine sticks his sword in the ground and lifts his visor. Arthur smiles and
shakes head.]
ARTHUR
I should've known.
[Gwaine removes his helmet.]
ARTHUR
Nobody fights like you do.
[Gwaine turns toward the King's box, surprising Gwen and Uther.]
UTHER
Guards! Seize him!
--
[38:23, INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, TENT - DAY]
[Gaius kneels over the bodies of Ebor (Ethan) and Dagr (Oswald).]
UTHER
Is there nothing you can do for them?
GAIUS
I'm sorry, it's too late for them.
UTHER
The prisoner is responsible for their deaths. I want him executed immediately.
GAIUS
You might want to wait before you pass judgment. I fear that...
[Gaius pulls the crystal from Ebor's neck.]
GAIUS
Sir Ethan...
[Gaius pulls the crystal from Dagr's neck.]
GAIUS
...and Sir Oswald are not all that they seem.
[Gaius removes their helmets to reveal Ebor and Dagr.]
UTHER
Sorcery.
ARTHUR
And once again, I owe Gawain my life.
--
ARTHUR
The King is prepared to overlook the fact that you fought in the mêlée.
MERLIN
That's fantastic!
GWAINE
Thank you, Arthur.
ARTHUR
But...he's a stubborn man. He will not rescind his judgment. You must leave
Camelot.
[Gwaine gives a rueful smile and nods.]
MERLIN
Oh, you got to speak to him, Arthur, make him change his mind.
GWAINE
Merlin.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry Gwaine. My father's wrong. If it were up to me...
GWAINE
I know. You don't need to explain yourself.
ARTHUR
You have until sunset.
--
MERLIN
Where will you go?
GWAINE
I was thinking Mercia.
MERLIN
It's dangerous.
GWAINE
Yeah. And you get a lot more ale for your money. I'm joking.
MERLIN
Why don't you tell the King who you really are, he'll grant you a pardon, you can
stay in Camelot?
GWAINE
I could never serve under a man like Uther.
MERLIN
Yet you helped Arthur.
GWAINE
He stood up for me.
MERLIN
I knew he would.
GWAINE
That showed he is, indeed, a noble man.
MERLIN
Then why don't you stay?
[Gwaine sighs..]
MERLIN
You could be a knight. Like your father. You and Arthur, you fought well together.
GWAINE
Then maybe one day we will again.
--
[40:36, EXT. RAMPARTS ABOVE THE LOWER TOWN - DAY]
[Gwaine walks down the street and salutes Arthur and Merlin in farewell.]
ARTHUR
It's a shame. He would've been a great knight.
MERLIN
Maybe one day he still will.
ARTHUR
The rules won't allow it. Knights are noblemen. Always have been, always will be.
It's a tradition that...
[Arthur sees Gwen chatting with Gwaine.]
ARTHUR
They seem very friendly!
MERLIN
Why should you care?
ARTHUR
I don't.
[Gwen laughs and touches Gwaine's chest.]
ARTHUR
She could do better than that!
MERLIN
What? She should be setting her sights...higher?
[Arthur shrugs.]
MERLIN
Oh, but I forget! She can't. A girl of Gwen's standing, no. She could never consort
with a nobleman. That's the rules.
[Arthur glares at Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
Shut up?
ARTHUR
You guessed it.
[Gwen kisses Gwaine on the cheek and they go they wander their separate ways.
Arthur and Merlin shove each other on their way back to the castle.]
-----------------------------------------------
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December 6 2010, 18:28
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BBC Merlin: 3x05 The Crystal Cave
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur run from bandits in the woods. They duck behind some rocks.]
MERLIN
Are they still after us?
ARTHUR
I told you we'd outrun them.
MERLIN
You sure?
ARTHUR
Why is it you never trust me, Merlin?
[Bandits run at them from opposite direction. Arthur and Merlin run.]
ARTHUR
Come on, this way.
MERLIN
Where are we going?!
ARTHUR
Trust me!
[Merlin senses something and stops running.]
MERLIN
Arthur!
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
[Arthur grabs Merlin's arm and pulls him past two large statues of men.]
ARTHUR
Come on!
[Merlin and Arthur descend stone steps.]
MERLIN
What is this place?
ARTHUR
The Valley of the Fallen Kings.
MERLIN
Is it cursed?
ARTHUR
No. Not unless you're superstitious.
MERLIN
It is.
ARTHUR
It's a myth. They'll never follow us in here. They won't dare. Trust me.
MERLIN (whispers)
If you say that one more time.
[Bandits chase them through the valley. Arthur gets hit by an arrow and falls
down.]
ARTHUR
What was that?
MERLIN
An arrow.
[Merlin puts Arthur's arm around his shoulder.]
ARTHUR
An arrow? Oh, good. For a moment I thought it was something terrible.
[Arthur passes out.]
--
[03:11, EXT. VALLEY OF THE FALLEN KINGS - DAY]
[Merlin watches bandits pass over his hiding place. Merlin takes an herbal pouch
off of a fire and places it on Arthur's forehead.]
MERLIN
Come on. Dollophead. I need you to recover.
[Merlin turns Arthur over and places his hand on the arrow wound.]
MERLIN
Þurhhæle dolgbenn.
[Nothing happens.]
MERLIN
Listen to me, clotpole, I don't care if you die. There are plenty of other princes.
You're not the only pompous, supercilious...condescending, royal...imbecile I could
work for. The world is full of them. But I'm gonna give you one more chance.
[Merlin turns Arthur over again and places his hand on the wound.]
MERLIN
Licsar ge staðol nu.
[Nothing happens. Merlin cries as he washes Arthur's blood off his hand.]
TALIESON
Tell me, why are you so sad?
MERLIN
It's my friend. He's dying and I can't help him.
TALIESON
Then do not waste your tears. For I can tell you that the time for him to die is
not yet upon us.
[Talieson and Merlin walk to Arthur.]
TALIESON
Don't be afraid. My name is Talieson.
MERLIN
I'm Merlin.
TALIESON
I know who you are. The moment of our meeting has been written for many, many
years. You are Emrys.
[Talieson turns Arthur over and places his hand the wound.]
TALIESON
Wel cene hole.
[Arthur's colour improves. He stirs, but doesn't wake.]
MERLIN
Arthur?
TALIESON
He is sleeping. Within hours he will be fully recovered.
MERLIN
You sure?
TALIESON
If my memory serves me well.
MERLIN
What do you mean?
TALIESON
I want to show you something, Merlin.
MERLIN
What?
TALIESON
You must wait and see.
[Merlin follows Talieson.]
MERLIN
Where are we going? Why have you brought me here?
TALIESON
In good time, you will discover all.
--
[07:32, INT. VALLEY OF THE FALLEN KINGS, THE CRYSTAL CAVE - DAY]
MERLIN
What is this place?
TALIESON
This is where magic began. It is the Crystal Cave.
[In a crystal, Merlin sees Queen Morgana in the council room and Old Merlin.]
TALIESON
What is it you see?
MERLIN
Images. Flashes. I've seen something like this before in the Crystal of Neahtid.
TALIESON
What you see here is exactly the same, for the Crystal of Neahtid was hewn from
this very cave. Look into them, Emrys. Really look. Much will be revealed.
[Merlin turns to look, but jerks away.]
MERLIN
No! Take me out of here. How do I get back to Arthur?
TALIESON
The future is hidden to all but a very few, Emrys. You are one such person.
MERLIN
No! I've been through this before.
TALIESON
Perhaps there is a reason you were brought here at this moment in time.
MERLIN
What reason?
TALIESON
Only the crystals can tell you. They contain futures that are not yet born. The
secrets they reveal, Emrys, are unique to you, and you alone. Look into them,
Emrys. Really look. Use what you see for good.
[Merlin walks down into the cave and looks into the crystals. Merlin sees Morgana
stroking a rearing horse, Morgana unsheathing an ornate dagger, Morgana walking
down a corridor in her red cloak, red liquid dripping from someone's fingers,
himself yelling near a blaze of fire, red-cloaked Morgana pulling the dagger from
her belt in Uther's Chambers, raising it to strike, and Uther's shocked awakened
expression.]
MERLIN
What's that?
[Merlin holds his head as if in pain.]
MERLIN
What was that?!
[Talieson is gone.]
--
[Merlin sits in a catatonic state back in the woods. He gets hit with a bag.]
ARTHUR
You look like a startled stoat.
MERLIN
Yeah? Well, at least I don't look like a bone idle...toad. Let's go.
ARTHUR
You're saying I look like a toad?
MERLIN
Yeah. And maybe one day you'll magically transform into a handsome prince. Since
magic's outlawed, that'll probably never happen. Come on, let's go.
ARTHUR
Merlin. I'm the one who gives the orders, remember?
MERLIN
Yeah. You ready? Let's go.
--
[11:54, EXT. FIELD - DAY]
[Merlin marches through a field, Arthur following behind.]
ARTHUR
I don't understand. You said I had an arrow in my back. How come all I can feel is
a slight bruise?
MERLIN
Don't know.
ARTHUR
Merlin.
[Merlin looks back at him.]
ARTHUR
Something happen you're not telling me about?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
Come on. I'm missing your usual prattle.
MERLIN
Certainly making up for it.
ARTHUR
Still haven't answered my question.
MERLIN
The arrow didn't pierce your armour, and when you fell, you knocked yourself out.
[Arthur looks confused, trying to sort things out or remember.]
ARTHUR
All right. I don't normally say things like this, but...you did a good job back
there. D'you hear what I just said? All right. Maybe I should give you some kind of
reward. What do you want?
MERLIN
Some peace and quiet.
--
ARTHUR
The bandits probably have a stronghold somewhere in the White Mountains. How we
escaped, I'll never know. Although, some credit must go to my servant, Merlin.
[Gwen gives Merlin a friendly nudge.]
UTHER
Dispatch a patrol. I want these men caught and brought to justice.
ARTHUR
Immediately, Father.
[Uther, Arthur, and court begin to exit.]
UTHER
For a moment, we feared you might miss Lady Morgana's birthday.
ARTHUR
It'd take more than a bunch of thieves to keep me from such a feast.
UTHER
Tomorrow promises to be quite a night.
--
MERLIN
Gaius, I can't get these visions out of my head.
GAIUS
You are extremely lucky to have seen the Crystal Cave. Even before the Great Purge
wizards would talk about it with reverence
MERLIN
That man who led me there, who is he?
GAIUS (scoffs)
Who was he? He died, I'd say, about 300 years ago. Talieson was a seer to the great
kings of old. It is said that the Crystal Cave was a source of his prophecies.
MERLIN
But he told me...He said there was a reason I was brought there at this moment in
time. Why? It must mean the events I saw are imminent. Morgana is going to kill
Uther.
GAIUS
Merlin, you must be careful. The Crystals are treacherous. What you saw may not be
all that it seemed.
MERLIN
So I do nothing?
GAIUS
There is nothing to suggest that what you saw is imminent, is there?
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
So, I wouldn't let it put you off your soup.
MERLIN
No, you're right.
GAIUS
Come on, eat up.
MERLIN
What is it?
GAIUS
Sometimes it's best not to know.
--
[Merlin enters with breakfast while Arthur is pulling on his boots.]
MERLIN
You're up.
ARTHUR
It's Morgana's birthday. I have to get her a present.
MERLIN
What are you getting her?
ARTHUR
Ah, it's a secret.
MERLIN
Come on, you can tell me.
ARTHUR
A dagger.
--
[14:49, INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE.]
[Merlin rushes down the steps and sees Morgana stroking a rearing white horse. The
vision is reflected in his eye.]
--
[Merlin rushes in.]
MERLIN
It's happening. The future I saw, it's started.
GAIUS
Calm down, Merlin.
MERLIN
I just saw Morgana struggling with a horse exactly as she was in the crystals.
GAIUS
Are you certain?
MERLIN
It was the same image.
GAIUS
But she's always riding. It's not unusual to see her with a horse.
MERLIN
It's not the only thing. Arthur's present for Morgana, he's told me it's a dagger.
GAIUS
A dagger? Merlin, I think you're overreacting. It could be any dagger. As for the
sight of Morgana with a horse...
MERLIN
It was the same.
GAIUS
It's hardly a rare sight. Certainly not one to be trusted as a harbinger of doom.
--
[Merlin enters.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Merlin. Have you done my clothes for the feast?
MERLIN
Argh, no.
ARTHUR
No. No. Well, what have you been doing?
MERLIN
Erm.
ARTHUR
Hmm? Right. Well, you can start by pressing my robe.
[Arthur throws a robe at Merlin.]
ARTHUR
And, er, cleaning my shirts.
[Arthur throws shirts at Merlin.]
ARTHUR
And, er, ooh, polishing my boots.
[Arthur throws boots at Merlin. Arthur closes a box on the table and Merlin stares
at it.]
ARTHUR
Ah, Morgana's present. What do you think?
[Arthur takes a plain dagger out of the box and holds it up for Merlin to see.]
ARTHUR
Beautiful, isn't it? Feel the balance, feel the sharpness of the blade.
[Merlin takes it and laughs in relief.]
MERLIN
Yeah. It's just what every woman wants, isn't it?
ARTHUR
What do you mean?
MERLIN
Well, I'm no expert, but don't women normally go for pretty things? Like, maybe,
jewellery?
[Merlin hands the dagger back to Arthur. Arthur looks bemused.]
--
MERLIN
How do I look?
[Merlin spins around for Gaius to look him over.]
GAIUS
Same as you always do.
MERLIN
Handsome.
GAIUS
You've brightened up.
MERLIN
I've seen Morgana's present.
GAIUS
The dagger?
MERLIN
It's very plain. Bit boring.
GAIUS
And not like the one you saw?
MERLIN
No, that was sumptuous, ornate. I'd probably disappointed if I were Morgana.
(laughs)
GAIUS
Good. So now you can stop worrying.
MERLIN
Oh, I have. I'm going to continue as if I'd never even met Talieson. I'm going to
enjoy this feast like everyone else.
GAIUS
Even if it's for Morgana.
--
[17:32, INT. KING’S PALACE, HALL OF CEREMONIES - NIGHT]
[Nobles raise glasses for a toast.]
NOBLES
To Lady Morgana.
[Uther pats a box in front of Morgana. She opens it and lets Uther put the necklace
on for her. Arthur nods a knight over, who presents a box to Morgana.]
ARTHUR
Happy birthday.
MORGANA
Arthur.
[Morgana opens the box and pulls out a sumptuous dagger. Morgana removes sheath and
the vision is reflected in Merlin's eye. The nobles applaud.]
ARTHUR
It's not often you're right, Merlin, but this is one of those rare occasions. Girls
do like pretty things.
[Arthur pats Merlin on the back.]
ARTHUR
Thanks.
--
MERLIN
Don't you see, it's started. It's coming true.
GAIUS
We can't be certain about that.
MERLIN
We have to stop her.
GAIUS
How? We don't know when this is going to happen. We don't even know if it will.
MERLIN
We have to watch her.
GAIUS
Night and day?
MERLIN
I was shown these visions for a reason.
GAIUS
This is madness.
MERLIN
We'll take it in turns. She cannot be left alone.
--
[18:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin hides behind curtain in the corridor outside Morgana's chambers.]
--
[19:03, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gwen brings Morgana's gifts to where she's sitting at her dressing table.]
GWEN
You got some lovely presents. Mainly hairbrushes.
[Gwen reads the note on a hand mirror.]
GWEN
Who's King Gromause?
MORGANA (shrugs)
At least he doesn't think my hair needs brushing.
GWEN
It's so pretty.
[Morgana grabs one of her gifts, a gold embroidered cloth.]
MORGANA
Here, I want to have this.
GWEN
Me?! No...
[Morgana hands Gwen the cloth and takes the mirror.]
MORGANA
It's a thank you.
[Gwen sighs at the pleasurable surprise.]
GWEN
Thank you.
[Merlin watches Gwen exit Morgana's chambers.]
[Morgana breathes on the mirror to fog it up. Note reads: "Sister, come to the
darkling woods at midnight. Morgause.".]
--
[20:09, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin watches Morgana exit her chamber in a red cloak. Morgana puts the dagger in
her belt and walks down the corridor. Merlin magically closes the door she's
approaching. A torch falls towards Morgana, she steps backwards and falls down some
stairs.]
--
[Gaius and Gwen enter. Arthur enters carrying Morgana.]
GAIUS
I need water and bandages.
GWEN
I'll get that.
GAIUS
And yarrow; we need to stop the bleeding.
[Gaius clears a table for Arthur to put Morgana down.]
GAIUS
She's having problems breathing.
MERLIN
Dianthus?
GAIUS
Yes, and a preparation of pulmonaria.
[Merlin pauses in confusion.]
GAIUS
Lungwort, Merlin. Quarter of an ounce, ground fine, and mixed with violet.
ARTHUR
How could this have happened?
GAIUS
Arthur, I need room here.
ARTHUR
Yes. Of course. Erm...anything you need, just tell me.
[Arthur leaves.]
--
[Gaius sews Morgana's head by candlelight.]
GWEN
Will she be alright?
GAIUS
We've done the best we can. I can heal her skin, Gwen, but the skull...the cranium
is broken. She's bleeding inside.
--
[Gaius enters and sits on the bed next to him.]
MERLIN
I had to stop the future. I had to stop Morgana killing Uther. I didn't mean to do
it like this.
GAIUS
It wasn't your fault, Merlin.
MERLIN
I've prevented something much worse from happening. I just...wish it could have
been some other way.
--
[Uther strokes Morgan's hair as Gaius watches over them.]
--
[23:04, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA’S CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Merlin walks past and hears sniffling. He sees Gwen crying in Arthur's arms.]
--
[Merlin broods in a chair. Arthur enters and looks over the armour laid out on the
table.]
ARTHUR
Sword belt, Merlin. Where's my sword belt?
[Merlin fetches the sword belt.]
ARTHUR
What the hell's it doing over there?
[Arthur grabs the sword belt, but can't get it untangled.]
MERLIN
It's twisted, here.
[Merlin reaches out to take the sword belt, but Arthur keeps struggling with it.]
MERLIN
Here.
[Arthur hands it over and Merlin untwists the belt and puts it down.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry about Morgana. If Gaius could do something, he would.
ARTHUR
After all we went through to rescue her, for her to survive all that...
MERLIN
I know.
ARTHUR
To lose her now, like this...I've grown up with her, she's like a sister to me. I'd
sacrifice my place on the throne for her to see another sunrise.
--
[Uther strokes Morgana's hair and Gaius stands next to him. Merlin listens in his
chamber.]
UTHER
So beautiful
GAIUS
Yes, Sire.
UTHER
I cannot watch her die, Gaius.
GAIUS
I wish there was something I could do.
UTHER
No, you don't understand. I cannot lose her. No matter what happens, she cannot
die.
GAIUS
I will do everything I can, Sire.
UTHER
No, Gaius. Whatever it takes. Whatever, I don't care. You must save her.
GAIUS
If I knew a way...
UTHER
You're not understanding me, Gaius. Cure her. I don't care what remedy you use. In
all these books there must be something. Something in the Old Religion?
GAIUS (whispers)
Are you suggesting?
UTHER
Sorcery, yes.
GAIUS
I know she's dear to you, Sire, but surely you're not going to risk everything for
Morgana?
UTHER
Gaius, you don't understand. There's something you should know. Something I've told
no one. Morgana is my daughter. It was while Gorlois was away.
[Morgana's finger twitches and her eyes move under her eyelids.]
UTHER
He was fighting on the northern plains. Her mother, Vivien, grew lonely.
GAIUS
I understand, Sire.
UTHER
I've said enough. The people must never know who Morgana really is, for Arthur's
sake
GAIUS
I assure you, Sire, your secret is safe with me.
[Gaius enters Merlin's Chamber.]
MERLIN
It explains everything. No wonder he spend a year looking for her.
GAIUS
Now we know why she can do no wrong
--
[27:11, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBER - DAY]
[Merlin enters while Uther's stares out the window.]
MERLIN
Sire. This is from Gaius. He thought it might...help ease your mind.
[Merlin places the bottle on the desk, waits, bows, and turns to leave.]
UTHER
You are Gaius's boy.
MERLIN
He is my guardian.
UTHER
You're like a son to him.
MERLIN
Yes.
UTHER
I see the way he cares for you. You feel your child's every joy, and their pain.
You watch their failings and you see your own. All you want is for their happiness,
for them to escape the sufferings of life. Wh--why has this happened? I woul-- I
would do anything. Anyth...
[Uther breaks down crying. Merlin leaves.]
--
[28:31, EXT. KING’S PALACE - DAY]
[Merlin stands in the pouring rain, watching Arthur slash a training dummy.]
--
[Merlin enters. Gaius and Gwen sit watching over Morgana.]
GAIUS
Her breath is leaving her. She'll be gone by morning.
[Gwen cries. Merlin enters his room and waits for nightfall to ride out of
Camelot.]
--
[29:48, EXT. FOREST CLEARING - NIGHT]
[Merlin waits for Kilgharrah in the clearing.]
KILGHARRAH
You summoned me, young warlock? And to what do I owe the pleasure this time?
MERLIN
I've been to the Crystal Cave. I saw Morgana make an attempt on Uther's life.
KILGHARRAH
It does not surprise me.
MERLIN
Well, I stopped her.
KILGHARRAH
To change the future is no simple matter, Merlin. To do so is fraught with danger.
MERLIN
I know, and as a result of my actions, Morgana is dying.
KILGHARRAH
Then you should rejoice!
MERLIN
I want you to help me to save her.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin, have you learnt nothing?
MERLIN
I did not mean to kill her. All I wanted was to avoid the future that would've
unfolded, to prevent Uther's death, to prevent Camelot being torn apart.
KILGHARRAH
I will not cure her!
MERLIN
She is Uther's daughter.
KILGHARRAH
Yes.
MERLIN
You knew. Why didn't you tell me?
KILGHARRAH
It makes no difference.
MERLIN
Well, whatever she was about to do, I stopped her. There's no need for people to
suffer.
KILGHARRAH
The witch must die, as she should have done long ago. I will not save her.
MERLIN
I am a dragonlord! You cannot refuse me!
KILGHARRAH
How dare you treat me such! How dare you abuse your power!
MERLIN
I command you.
KILGHARRAH
Very well. But I warn you, the evil that will follow is of your doing, and yours
alone.
[Kilgharrah breathes magic on Merlin and leaves. Merlin rides back to Camelot.]
--
[Merlin enters. Gwen sits with Morgana.]
MERLIN
I'll sit with her. Why don't you go and get some sleep? You must be exhausted.
GWEN
If she wakes up...
MERLIN
I'll call you.
GWEN
Thank you.
[Gwen leaves.]
MERLIN
Ic þe þurhhæle þin licsare mid þam sundorcræftas þære ealdaþ æ!
[Morgana begins breathing normally and her colour improves.]
--
[Gaius picks up a jar from someone the next morning.]
--
[Uther cradles Morgana.]
UTHER
I never thought...
[Uther stops talking when he sees Gaius.]
UTHER
It's truly a miracle.
--
[34:00, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Uther follows Gaius out of the chamber.]
UTHER
Thank you, Gaius. I knew you would not fail me.
GAIUS
I assure you, Sire, I did nothing.
UTHER
Of course, I understand. I won't ask any questions. But I will not forget this,
Gaius.
--
[34:22, EXT. KING’S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR.]
[Gaius finds Merlin sitting on a ledge and sits next to him.]
MERLIN
I couldn't watch everyone's grief.
GAIUS
I know. But you're playing with things that are beyond you.
--
[Gwen props Morgana up in bed with pillows.]
MORGANA
Thank you, Gwen.
[Gwen turns and bows to Uther before leaving. Uther goes to Morgana, who reaches
out her hands to him.]
UTHER
I could never let you die. I think I somehow willed you to live.
MORGANA
You've always been so good to me. I'm grateful.
UTHER
You and Arthur, you mean everything to me.
MORGANA
I know I could have no better guardian. Being so close to death has made me realise
how important you...and Arthur are to me. How close we are to each other.
UTHER
Yes.
MORGANA
You're like a father to me.
UTHER
Yes.
MORGANA
I wish the people knew that.
UTHER
They do.
MORGANA
Not really.
UTHER
Of course they do.
MORGANA
In the eyes of the people I am no more than your ward, a guest.
UTHER
What matters is what we feel. That's what's important, not what the people think. I
must let you rest.
[Uther pulls away and leaves. Morgana seethes.]
--
[36:35, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDORS – NIGHT]
[A thunderstorm brews at night. Morgause enters the castle and kills a serving boy.
The boy drops a pitcher full of wine.]
--
[36:47, INT. KING’S PALACE, BALCONY CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
MORGANA
Morgause.
MORGAUSE
Sister. I waited for you the other night. What happened? Something is wrong.
MORGANA
There is much to tell you, Morgause.
MORGAUSE
What is it?
MORGANA
I overheard Uther.
MORGAUSE
What?
MORGANA
Uther is my father. I am his daughter.
MORGAUSE
Uther?
MORGANA
He's been lying to me all these years.
MORGAUSE
But this is glorious news.
MORGANA
He disowned me. He wants people to think that he's the perfect king. It's more
important to him than his own flesh and blood.
MORGAUSE
But don't you see? This is wonderful! You have a legitimate claim to his throne.
MORGANA
No, Sister. You don't understand. He must pay for this.
MORGANA
You must go.
MORGAUSE
No, I don't want to leave you like this.
MORGANA
You must or they will find you here.
MORGAUSE
Do not do anything rash, Morgana. Promise me!
[Morgause kisses her on the cheek, but Morgana pulls away from it.]
MORGAUSE
We must bide our time.
[Morgause leaves.]
--
[38:14, INT. KING’S PALACE, CENTRAL CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Arthur crouches over the fallen serving boy, he gets up as Merlin and Gaius
approach and addresses a guard.]
ARTHUR
We need to seal the drawbridge, search the grounds. I'll inform the King.
[Morgause moves about the castle. Merlin looks at the serving boy and sees the
image from one of his visions.]
GAIUS
Merlin, what's the matter?
MERLIN
That was the next image I saw in the crystal. I haven't stopped anything.
--
[Gwen prepares Morgana's bed while Morgana broods at her vanity table.]
MORGANA
Have they found the intruder?
GWEN
Not yet. Looks like it's going to be a bad night.
MORGANA
Yes.
[Thunderclap.]
--
[Merlin runs through the castle.]
--
[Merlin runs in as Morgana puts the sumptuous dagger in her belt.]
MORGANA
MERLIN
Arthur sent me to look after you. He's worried about the intruder.
MORGANA
I don't need you.
MERLIN
He was quite insistent.
[Morgana moves to shove Merlin out of the way. Merlin catches her arm and holds
on.]
MORGANA (gasp)
Get out of my way!
[Morgana's eyes glow and she throws him against the wall, knocking him out and
setting her curtains on fire. Morgana walks through the corridors while guards
search the castle grounds. Merlin wakes and yells.]
--
[40:43, INT. KING’S PALACE, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Morgana pulls dagger and prepares to strike Uther in his sleep. Merlin bursts in
unseen and blasts windows inward, throwing Morgana against the wall. Uther wakes.]
UTHER
What's going on?
MORGANA
Er...there was a fire, and I was scared.
[Morgana steps towards Uther and kicks the fallen dagger under the bed.]
MORGANA
I wanted to be with you. You're the only person I feel safe with.
[Uther hugs her. Merlin scoffs quietly behind the curtain.]
--
GAIUS
You saved the King's life.
MERLIN
Only just. I thought I could alter the future, but instead I caused it. I made it
happen.
GAIUS
What you did was dangerous, even for someone as gifted as you. But what's done is
done. There are more important things for us to worry about. I fear that Morgana
knows the truth.
MERLIN
About what?
GAIUS
She knows the King is her father. That explains why she acted so suddenly. Arthur
must be careful.
MERLIN
Why?
GAIUS
Morgana is of royal blood. If Uther were to die, Arthur is all that stands between
her and the throne of Camelot.
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December 6 2010, 18:29
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BBC Merlin: 3x06 The Changeling
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:19, INT. GAWANT CASTLE, NURSERY - DAY]
[A Sidhe enters the nursery where a baby sleeps peacefully in a cradle.]
SIDHE ELDER
Attrab i n-ingin-seo ocus oentaig lé!
[The baby's face glows blue. She wakes and begins crying.]
--
20 years later...
[01:41, INT. GAWANT CASTLE, PRINCESS ELENA'S CHAMBER - DAY]

[Princess Elena walks about barefoot, picks her teeth, farts, and chews an apple
with her mouth open. She comes down drawbridge and greets her father with a kiss.]
LORD GODWYN
Oh, come on, we're going to be late!
PRINCESS ELENA
Not if you get rid of that thing.
[Elena points at the carriage.]
LORD GODWYN
I want you to arrive like the princess you are.
PRINCESS ELENA
It's no fun in there.
GRUNHILDA
Fun? Who said anything about fun? Certainly no fun chasing after you. I tried, sir.
LORD GODWYN
I'm sure you did, Grunhilda.
[Grunhilda places shoes in front of Elena. Elena's jaw drops.]
GRUNHILDA
Go on then.
[Lord Godwyn nods to the shoes.]
PRINCESS ELENA
Ugh.
[Elena squeezes her feet into the shoes painfully.]
GRUNHILDA
Perfect.
PRINCESS ELENA
Perfect for what? Certainly not for walking in.
GRUNHILDA
Elena.
--
[Uther, Arthur, and Merlin approach the dais.]
UTHER
Arthur. It is an exciting day.
ARTHUR
The arrival of Lord Godwyn is always a cause for celebration.
UTHER
And Princess Elena.
ARTHUR
Yes.
UTHER
I hear she's something of a beauty.
ARTHUR
Really?
UTHER
Oh, yes. Beautiful, charming, witty. Strategic.
ARTHUR
Strategic?
UTHER
I have always thought so. W-we have always thought so. That is, Lord Godwyn and
myself. That is, he finds you strategic, not Princess Elena.
ARTHUR
He finds me strategic?
UTHER
Oh, yes.
ARTHUR
And beautiful?
[Throne Room doors open. Godwyn, Elena, and Grunhilda enter.]
ARTHUR
Father, what are you trying to say?
UTHER
Lord Godwyn is a serious ally. The strength of such a match cannot be
underestimated.
ARTHUR
Please tell me you mean a jousting match.
UTHER
I mean a love match.
ARTHUR
Love?!
UTHER
Not love. Love has nothing to do with it, but the other bit. You know, a permanent
union.
ARTHUR
Marriage?!
UTHER
I knew you would understand. Godwyn!
[Uther and Godwyn hug.]
LORD GODWYN
Oh, it's been too long.
UTHER
Princess Elena, you are most welcome.
[Elena walks forward and falls flat on her face.]
--
[Arthur and Gwen walk down the corridor, followed by Merlin with the bags.]
ARTHUR
You put them in the best guest quarters?
GWEN
Everything's arranged. Princess Elena can't fail to be impressed.
ARTHUR
And Merlin, it would be good if the bags were to arrive before they did.
[Merlin pushes past.]
GWEN
What is it, Arthur? You seem troubled.
ARTHUR
My, er, my father had some surprising news for me. He expects me to marry Princess
Elena.
GWEN
Marry?
ARTHUR
Oh, don't worry, I'm not going to.
GWEN
I wasn't worried.
ARTHUR
No. No, why would you be?
--
[04:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Arthur prepares for bed.]
ARTHUR
It's strange, isn't it? Elena couldn't be more different to Lord Godwyn.
MERLIN
Yeah. Perhaps she takes after her mother.
ARTHUR
I never met her. She died when Elena was born.
MERLIN
That can't've been easy. Perhaps you've more in common than you think. Augh, bad
breath for example.
ARTHUR
Excuse me?
MERLIN
Appalling table manners.
ARTHUR
Er, now, hang on a minute.
MERLIN
Good sense of humour. No, no, you're right, you've nothing in common.
[Arthur tosses pillow at Merlin. Merlin ducks and the pillow lands at Uther's feet
as he enters.]
UTHER
A word. Alone.
[Merlin nods, picks up the pillow and leaves.]

UTHER
I need to talk to you about Elena. I realise that this is a delicate situation.
ARTHUR
There's nothing delicate about it.
UTHER
Lord Godwyn, as you know, is not only a very good friend of mine, but a
longstanding ally of Camelot.
ARTHUR
I have nothing against Lord Godwyn. I've nothing against Elena. Except marriage.
UTHER
When we talk about your future, Arthur, we're not just talking about your
happiness, but the safety and security of the whole of Camelot. You may one day be
a husband, but more importantly, you will one day be King.
ARTHUR
But I have no feelings for her whatsoever.
UTHER
Then I would encourage you find some.
--
[06:20, INT. KING’S PALACE, ELENA'S GUEST CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Elena wails in her sleep.]
GRUNHILDA
There, there, my sweet. Soon all this will pass.
[Grunhilda pulls out pixie dust and sprinkles it on Elena's face, revealing the
Sidhe within.]
--
[07:18, EXT. LAKE IN THE WOODS - NIGHT]
[Grunhilda heads to forest lake and announces herself.]
GRUNHILDA
A shruith inn Side, is Grunilda messe!
[The Sidhe appear and Grunhilda takes her true form.]
SIDHE ELDER
I sincerely hope you bring me good news.
GRUNHILDA
The fathers are committed to the match.
SIDHE ELDER
We have waited many years for this moment.
GRUNHILDA
It's only a matter of time, your esteemed majesty. You have been most patient, your
esteemed majesty.
SIDHE ELDER
And the girl?
GRUNHILDA
She has no idea that a fairy lives inside her just waiting emerge.
SIDHE ELDER
But that cannot happen until her marriage to Arthur is complete.
GRUNHILDA
And it will be soon, I promise. Then you will have what you most desire, one of
your own at the heart of Camelot. A Sidhe for queen.
--
[09:06, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE.]
[Arthur prepares to go out riding. Elena approaches her horse.]
ARTHUR
Here, let me assist you.
PRINCESS ELENA
Oh, please, this is something I can actually do.
[Elena mounts and nudges her horse into a run. Merlin and Arthur watch her take off
until Arthur realises he should follow. Arthur mounts his horse and takes off after
her, catching up to her in the woods.]
ARTHUR
Slow down!
PRINCESS ELENA
No chance!
[Arthur smiles.]
--
[09:42, EXT. FOREST, STREAM - DAY]
[Arthur dismounts where Elena has dismounted by a stream.]
ARTHUR
That was very impressive. I'm not easily impressed.
PRINCESS ELENA
Oh. Well, neither am I. And I wasn't!
[Elena laughs, snorts, and punches him in the arm. Awkward silence.]
PRINCESS ELENA
I've been riding since I was a child. I don't get to do it as much as I'd like,
princesses don't, but apparently my mother was an excellent horsewoman. I never met
her.
ARTHUR
I never met mine either. I...often wonder if I'm like her. I hope I don't take
after my father entirely.
PRINCESS ELENA
Oh, you don't! I don't mean that in, in a bad way.
[Arthur laughs awkwardly.]

ARTHUR
Er...so, the real reason why you beat me here is because I stopped to smell the
roses.
[Arthur pulls out a large pink rose.]
PRINCESS ELENA
Aww, thank you. It, it, it's beautiful.
[Elena sniffs the rose and sneezes on Arthur. He smiles/grimaces awkwardly. Merlin
arrives.]
MERLIN
Shall I set up here?
ARTHUR
Merlin! What kept you? [undertone.] Do not leave me again.
MERLIN
You were riding so fast. I thought you were eager for some [whisper.] time alone.
ARTHUR
Nobody likes a clever clogs, Merlin.

No.
--
[Arthur and Elena return to the castle and dismount.]
PRINCESS ELENA
Thank you. I had a lovely time.
ARTHUR
Me too.
[Elena hugs him awkwardly.]
PRINCESS ELENA
See you soon I expect.
ARTHUR
I hope so.
[Elena walks up the stairs and trips. Arthur jerks forward for a moment to help
her. Elena smiles sheepishly before tromping up the steps.]
MERLIN
Oh dear.
ARTHUR
For once, Merlin, I completely agree.
--
[11:57, INT. KING’S PALACE, BANQUET HALL - NIGHT]
[Arthur stands behind his chair and waits for Elena to be seated before sitting
down at the feast.]
LORD GODWYN
It's a big occasion. The total joining of our two families.
UTHER
Indeed, this union would cement what has long been an unofficial alliance between
our kingdoms.
LORD GODWYN
It would give me great pleasure. I can assure you, my heart lies with yours. As for
their hearts, who can say?
UTHER
No matter. The affairs of state take precedence over feelings. Arthur knows that.
I'm sure Elena does too.
[Grunhilda sits next to Gaius.]
GRUNHILDA
May I? You've been avoiding my gaze.
GAIUS
No, no. Er...my gaze isn't as sharp as it used to be.
GRUNHILDA
That's why I thought I'd move a bit closer. All the better to appreciate me, eh?
(laughs)
[Gaius laughs uncomfortably.]
GAIUS
Are you having a good evening?
GRUNHILDA
I intend to. Oh, yeah. A very good evening, indeed.
[Elena finds food down her dress, picks it out and eats it as Morgana, Arthur, and
Gwen look on.]
PRINCESS ELENA
*hic* Oh dear. I seem to have, erm...had a little too much *hic* of what is in that
glass. *hic* What, erm...what is in that glass? *hic*
[Gwen and Arthur share an "oh, dear" look. Gwen squeezes his shoulder as she
leaves.]
--
[Grunhilda brushes Elena's hair before bed.]
PRINCESS ELENA
I think that went okay, don't you?
GRUNHILDA
Oh, you'll be just fine, Petal.
PRINCESS ELENA
I mean, I suppose it could've gone better. I'm not the perfect princess, am I?
GRUNHILDA
Poppycock. And what does that mean, anyway, "Perfect princess"? Sounds perfectly
boring. You've got spirit, child. If Arthur's got half a brain, he'll recognise
that. And if he doesn't have a brain, well, you can always him for his brawn.
(laughs)
PRINCESS ELENA
I want to make this work for Father's sake. I know how important it is to him, and
I respect his judgment. Don't tell him I said that.
GRUNHILDA
I wouldn't dream of it. And you'd be best keep your doubts to yourself. These are
dangerous times. Marrying a Pendragon will secure your future.
PRINCESS ELENA
You're right.
GRUNHILDA
Here. This'll cheer you up!
[Grunhilda presents Elena a box with a frog inside.]
PRINCESS ELENA
Our little secret!
[Elena eats the live frog.]
GRUNHILDA
You're very special. Believe me, I know.
--
[Merlin sees Grunhilda walking off while he's gathering herbs. He follows her and
uses magic to slow time so he can see her catching flies with her frog tongue.
Merlin drops the herbs and runs away.]
--
GAIUS
I've seen some strange tongues in my time. Maybe she was suffering from an
infection. Was it discoloured?
MERLIN
Discoloured? Yes.
GAIUS
Brown?
MERLIN
Purple. And...long. Like...
[Merlin picks up large stick from the table.]
MERLIN
...this long.
GAIUS
That's not an infection.
MERLIN
No. It's magic. Some sort of magical creature has infiltrated Lord Godwyn's
household. The question is: why?
GAIUS
I don't know. But I have a feeling we should probably find out.
--
[16:14, INT. KING’S PALACE, ELENA'S GUEST CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Gaius snoops around and discovers Grunhilda's pixie dust. Grunhilda enters.]
GRUNHILDA
Can I help you?
GAIUS
I, erm...
GRUNHILDA
Something you need, perhaps?
GAIUS
I wanted to inquire whether Princess Elena would like a perfume concocting. Essence
of lavender, perhaps?
GRUNHILDA
That is a very bad excuse.
GAIUS
Really?
GRUNHILDA
You don't fool me for one minute. You were looking for me.
GAIUS
I was?
GRUNHILDA
I understand. It's alright.
GAIUS
I think probably I should be going.
GRUNHILDA
Elena won't be back for ages. Why don't we make sweet perfume together?
--
MERLIN
Pixie dust?
GAIUS
There's no mistaking it. Grunhilda is a pixie. It would explain a thing or two.
Pixies have one weakness, which is for...more...distinguished gentlemen.
MERLIN
What are you trying to say?
GAIUS
Grunhilda has shown a certain interest toward me.
MERLIN
She likes you?
[Gaius nods.]
MERLIN
Oh, that is disgusting. Imagine...imagine if she kissed you. Ugh.
GAIUS
Merlin! Pixies are the servants of the Sidhe. To them Elena could be very valuable.
I think Elena may be a changeling.
MERLIN
Changeling?
GAIUS
Inhabited by a fairy at birth. It would explain the clumsiness.
MERLIN
And Elena has no idea this thing's inside of her?
[Gaius shakes his head.]
GAIUS
And when the time comes, it will possess her entirely.
MERLIN
You think that time is now.
GAIUS
The Sidhe live for more than a thousand years. They're a patient people. It may be
that they have created this changeling knowing that Lord Godwyn and the House of
Pendragon would one day seek unity through marriage. That would give the Sidhe
something they want more than anything.
MERLIN
A Sidhe queen.
--
[Gwen serves the Pendragons at dinner.]
ARTHUR
Father, there is a delicate matter I wish to discuss with you.
UTHER
Your proposal. Excellent! We must make a fuss. Women like that kind of thing, isn't
that right, Morgana?
MORGANA (laughs)
I have no idea. I'm delighted to hear the news, though.
UTHER
I couldn't be more thrilled.
MORGANA
She's a wonderful woman.
UTHER
She'll make a wonderful wife.
ARTHUR
No, she won't. Not for me, anyway. Father, I have tried to get to know Elena, but
the truth is, I have no feelings for her. I'm, I'm sure she's a wonderful person,
but I cannot marry someone I don't love.
UTHER
You can, and you will.
[Arthur looks at Gwen. Gwen looks away, upset. Morgana catches the exchange.]
--
[Merlin spies on Princess Elena as she wails in her sleep. Grunhilda sprinkles
pixie dust on her face and the Sidhe appears. Merlin knocks over the table he's
standing on. Grunhilda sees Merlin as he runs off.]
--
MERLIN
You were right. Poor girl, no wonder she's got a wind problem. You should see what
she's got trapped inside her. We have to tell the King.
GAIUS
Merlin, Lord Godwyn is one of Uther's dearest friends. Accusing him of having a
Sidhe for a daughter and a pixie for a nurse is not something that can be
undertaken lightly.
MERLIN
But Uther wants Arthur to marry her.
GAIUS
Then we don't have much time. We have to find a spell that will force the fairy out
of her.
MERLIN
I don't know anything about Sidhe magic.
GAIUS
Then it's time we learned.
[Gaius hands Merlin a book.]
--
[Morgana watches Merlin and Arthur in the Square. She smirks when Gwen come in to
make the bed.]
MORGANA
I wouldn't like to be in Arthur's shoes.
GWEN
What do you mean?
MORGANA
Forced to marry someone against his will.
GWEN
I don't think he'll marry her if he feels that way.
MORGANA
I know it's hard to believe, but he may not have a choice. Even if it isn't what he
wants. Even if his heart belongs to another? Even if she feels the same way. Gwen,
we've known each other for too long, I can see it in your eyes. You like him, don't
you?
GWEN
No. Don't be silly.
MORGANA
And he likes you.
GWEN
It can never come to anything.
MORGANA
I'd like to think it was possible. But Arthur can't change 200 years of history no
matter how much he may want to.
GWEN
I know.
[Gwen leaves. Morgana smirks.]
--
[Merlin and Gaius read through large books.]
MERLIN
I think my brain is going to burst, and my eyes just pop out of their sockets.
GAIUS
Now, don't make a mess over this one.
MERLIN
Why? Is it any more useful than any of the others?
GAIUS
It's the last one we looked at, and by the ancient law of Sod, it must provide the
answer.
MERLIN
What?
GAIUS
There is this potion, created long ago by the witches of Marador, which if I am
right, will force the fairy out of the girl. (sigh) I've no idea how to make it.
I've no idea what a lot of these ingredients are.
[Merlin sighs.]
--
[Arthur opens his door to find Gwen standing there.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere.
GWEN
I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't just turn up like this.
[Arthur walks to the window as Gwen enters.]
GWEN
Everyone's talking about your marriage to Elena. I know you said that it isn't what
you wanted, but I also know that you can't always have what you want. I know that
very well.
ARTHUR
Is what I want really that insane?
GWEN
Yes, Arthur. From anyone's perspective, apart from yours and mine, it's completely
insane.
ARTHUR
Then I'm happy being insane. Surely it's better than being miserable.
GWEN
I don't think she will make you miserable. She has a good heart.
ARTHUR
As do you.
GWEN
We both know it can't be.
ARTHUR
But if I do it. If I marry her, what will you do?
GWEN
I will watch you grow into the King that Camelot deserves. It is as it should be.
--
MERLIN
Please tell me you fixed the potion, I have a very bad feeling about this.
GAIUS
Witches of Marador are the worst recipe writers I've known.
MERLIN
Gaius!
GAIUS
I'm working on it. But we need to find the stamen of the Dropwort flower. They're
rarer than a four leaf clover.
[Grunhilda pushes Elena down the aisle towards the throne where Arthur is waiting.]
ARTHUR
I am honoured to be standing before you today in the presence of our dear friend,
Lord Godwyn, and his wonderful daughter, Elena. The people of this kingdom are very
dear to me. This place is my life. I hope one day to continue the good work of my
father, and to make Camelot a place of peace and happiness.
ARTHUR
It is my sincerest hope that you, Princess Elena, share these dreams. With this in
mind...
[Arthur goes down on one knee.]
ARTHUR
I would like to ask you to do me the honour of being my...wife.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius brews a potion. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
I got it!
[Merlin holds up a flower.]
GAIUS
Grown in boggy and marshy terrain?
MERLIN
In the middle of boggy, marshy terrain. Right in the middle.
[Merlin is covered in mud.]
GAIUS
You did a good job. This'll sort things out. Hopefully before tomorrow's wedding.
MERLIN
Will it hurt her when the fairy leaves?
GAIUS
She'll feel like a new person. She probably doesn't realise how much trouble it's
been causing her.
--
[27:02, EXT. LAKE IN THE WOODS - NIGHT]
GRUNHILDA
Oh, master, I am sorry, but I fear we may have a problem. I may be wrong, but you
know how things are.
SIDHE ELDER
Out with it!
GRUNHILDA
The serving boy, Merlin, knows Elena is a changeling.
SIDHE ELDER
So? What can a serving boy do?
GRUNHILDA
He is Arthur's serving boy, and you won't expect he will stay quiet for long.
SIDHE ELDER
Do you know how long I have waited for this moment?
GRUNHILDA
Yes, Sire! And I have been there with you every second of the way.
SIDHE ELDER
You have been there because we have chosen to keep you there! If the changeling is
discovered, you will not be so useful anymore.
GRUNHILDA
No, Sire.
SIDHE ELDER
As to this Merlin, soon he will regret the day I ever heard his name. Let him learn
who he's angered. Let him feel the power of the mighty Sidhe!
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN’S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Sidhe Elder enters while Merlin's asleep. Merlin wakes before the Sidhe Elder
attacks him. Merlin pulls out the Tír-Mòr staff and destroys the Sidhe Elder. The
bottle of anti-changeling potion is broken in the process.]
MERLIN
Please tell me that wasn't all of it.
--
[On the morning of the wedding, Elena lies in bed, belching.]
GRUNHILDA
I don't think I've ever been so happy. I'm almost as excited as if it was my
wedding day. In fact, given half a chance, I'd definitely marry him myself.
PRINCESS ELENA
Maybe that's not such a bad idea.
GRUNHILDA
What?
PRINCESS ELENA
I'm serious. I don't love him. He doesn't understand me. He certainly doesn't love
me either.
GRUNHILDA
He respects you.
PRINCESS ELENA
Yes, and I him. But is that enough?
GRUNHILDA
Well, yes, definitely. I, I would say it was enough. I mean, what is love anyway?
Here today and gone tomorrow. Respect, that's what lasts. Aw, it's just nerves.
Understandable, but not to be listened to. Silly girl.
--
[Gaius finishes remaking the anti-changeling potion.]
MERLIN
That's it?
[Gaius nods.]
MERLIN (sigh)
Thank goodness for that.
GAIUS
Well, there's one more thing. How are we going to get Elena to drink this with
Grunhilda around?
MERLIN
I think I might know a way.
--
[Gaius knocks on the door.]
GRUNHILDA
Well, hello there.
GAIUS
Hello, indeed. I wonder, could you spare me a moment?
GRUNHILDA
But of course.
GAIUS
Er, not here. Alone. The vaults beneath Camelot.
GRUNHILDA
The vaults?
GAIUS
It's a very private place.
PRINCESS ELENA
I can't walk in these shoes.
GRUNHILDA
I have a wedding to prepare.
GAIUS
No one will disturb us. There may not be another opportunity.
GRUNHILDA
You surprise me, Gaius. But, oh, what a lovely surprise! I'll be right there.
--
[31:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, VAULTS - DAY]
[Merlin and Gaius wait.]
MERLIN
You look very handsome. Perfect bait.
GAIUS
Merlin, if this doesn't work, if it seems she is overpowering me.
MERLIN
I will just watch and wait.
GAIUS
You will rescue me. And if it does work, let us never speak of it again.
GRUNHILDA
Hello my lover! Oh, what a romantic place. I've been dreaming of this moment.
GAIUS
Me too.
GRUNHILDA
Longing for this time.
GAIUS
Longing.
GRUNHILDA
At last, we two will be as one.
[Grunhilda puckers her lips. Gaius runs out and Merlin magically locks the gate.]
MERLIN
Ne un clyse.
[Grunhilda lashes out her frog tongue and licks Gaius.]
GRUNHILDA
You'll never know what you've missed.
GAIUS
I'll take your word for it.
GRUNHILDA
Atot-oilg, a chomlae!
[Grunhilda fails to magically unlock the gate.]
--
GAIUS
Never speak of it, Merlin. That's what we agreed.
--
GRUNHILDA
Ar-focraim uait, asndot-roilce!
--
[Uther greets guests at the wedding.]
UTHER
Welcome, welcome, welcome. It's good to have you here.
--
GRUNHILDA
Lasa n-uile fil ocum ar-focraim atot-oilg!
[Grunhilda's spell blasts the gate off its hinges.]
--
[33:26, INT. KING’S PALACE, ELENA'S CORRIDOR - DAY]
GAIUS
You got your staff. When the Sidhe is released, it might not be very happy.
MERLIN
Don't worry, I'll be ready for it.
GRUNHILDA
You better be ready for me first!
[Merlin hits Grunhilda with staff energy beam, but she gets up.]
MERLIN
I'll see how long I can hold her off, you better be quick.
--
[Gaius enters.]
PRINCESS ELENA
Grunhilda?
[Elena peeks around the curtain.]
GAIUS
It's only me.
PRINCESS ELENA
Where has she gone? I'm getting married in less than an hour.
[Elena hears electric popping noises and screams in the corridor.]
PRINCESS ELENA
What was that?
GAIUS
Er...preparation for the wedding. Everybody's very excited. But you must be
nervous.
PRINCESS ELENA
I'm a little flustered.
GAIUS
Only to be expected, and just as I thought. I brought you a tonic to calm your
nerves.
PRINCESS ELENA
You are very kind.
[Elena opens the bottle and takes a tiny sip.]
PRINCESS ELENA
I cannot believe this is actually my wedding day.
GAIUS
Best to drink it all for the full effect.
PRINCESS ELENA
Oh.
[Elena takes another tiny sip.]
PRINCESS ELENA
I really wish my mother was here.
GAIUS
Try another sip.
[Gaius sits down next to her. Merlin finally kills the pixie with a huge blast of
energy, and Grunhilda turns into dust. Merlin charges into Elena's room ready to
fight the Sidhe. He gives Gaius a look.]
GAIUS (whisper)
I'm trying.
MERLIN
Elena, this is gonna make you feel a whole lot better!
[Merlin takes the bottle, pinches Elena's nose, and pours the potion into her
mouth. Elena passes out and writhes while the Sidhe is forced out. Merlin kills it
with the staff energy. Elena wakes and sits up primly.]
GAIUS
Not to worry, my dear. I think you must've fainted. Such excitement!
PRINCESS ELENA
Fainted? I feel...amazing. I haven't felt this good in years! Where is Grunhilda?
Merlin & GAIUS

We'll look into it.
--
[35:43, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM ANTECHAMBER - DAY]
[Arthur stands there looking petrified.]
MERLIN
I brought you your ceremonial sword.
ARTHUR
Is that for me to fall on?
MERLIN
Hopefully not. What's wrong?
ARTHUR
You wouldn't understand, Merlin. You have no idea what it's like to have a destiny
you can't escape.
MERLIN
Destinies are troublesome things.
[Arthur takes the sword and sheaths it.]
MERLIN
You feel trapped, like your whole life is being planned out for you and you've got
no control over anything, and sometimes you don't even know if what destiny decided
is really the best thing at all.
ARTHUR
How come you're so knowledgeable?
MERLIN
Hmm? Oh, I read a book.
ARTHUR
What would this book tell you? Should I marry her?
MERLIN
That's not really my place to say so.
ARTHUR
I'm asking you, it's your job to answer.
MERLIN
If you really want to know what I think...
[Arthur gestures for Merlin to go on.]
MERLIN
I think you're mad, I think you're all mad. People should marry for love, not
convenience. And if Uther thinks an unhappy king makes for a stronger kingdom, then
he's wrong. 'Cause you may be destined to rule Camelot, but you have a choice...as
to how you do it.
[Throne Room doors open. Trumpets sound. Arthur walks to the altar.]
--
[Normalised Elena turns to her father.]
PRINCESS ELENA
What do you think?
LORD GODWYN
Beautiful. No other word for it. Beautiful.
[Elena takes her father's arm.]
--
[Godwyn leads Elena down the aisle. Arthur takes her hands.]
GEOFFREY
My lords, ladies, and gentlemen of Camelot, we are gathered here today to celebrate
the ancient rite of hand-fasting, the union of Arthur Pendragon and Princess Elena
of Gawant. Is it your wish, Arthur, to become one with this woman?
ARTHUR
It is.
GEOFFREY
Is it your wish, Elena, to become one with this man?
[Elena looks at her father and then at the floor.]
PRINCESS ELENA
It is.
GEOFFREY
Do any say nay? Then as we gather here today, we are all witness to this rite...
ARTHUR
Wait.
GEOFFREY
There's something you would like to say, Arthur?
ARTHUR
Something I should've said a long time ago. Something from the heart I dare not
speak. Elena, you are a wonderful woman, and a beautiful bride, but I cannot deny
my feelings.
PRINCESS ELENA
You do not love me.
[Arthur shakes his head.]
ARTHUR
And I think, if you are honest, you do not love me either.
PRINCESS ELENA
No.
ARTHUR
Then we are both here out of duty. Can you forgive me?
PRINCESS ELENA
I agree with all you have said. Thank you, Arthur.
[Gwen holds back tears of joy.]
--
[Arthur takes off his crown as he enters, Uther storms in after him.]
UTHER
What did you think you were doing?
ARTHUR
The right thing, Father.
UTHER
For who? For Camelot, or for yourself?
ARTHUR
The two things aren't entirely separate.
UTHER
Until you put duty before your feelings, you are clearly not ready to be King.
ARTHUR
When I am ready to be King, I'll be a much better king for the support and strength
of a woman I love.
--
[40:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
[Godwyn and Uther walk down the main steps.]
LORD GODWYN
Can't imagine what's happened to Grunhilda.
UTHER
No. I'm sure she'll turn up.
LORD GODWYN
I hope so. It's most unlike her.
[Arthur and Merlin watch Elena descend the steps into the Square.]
ARTHUR
There's something different about her.
MERLIN
You're not changing your mind, are you?
ARTHUR
Goodness.
[Arthur shakes his head, considers Elena as she walks down the steps, and shakes
his head again.]
ARTHUR
No.
PRINCESS ELENA
I wish you well, Arthur Pendragon. I hope one day we both find the love we deserve.
[Elena offers Arthur her hand and he kisses it.]
PRINCESS ELENA
In the meantime, if you ever want to be beaten in a horserace, you know where to
find me.
LORD GODWYN
He did the right thing, you know. You mustn't punish him. They were neither of them
in love.
UTHER
That's not the point. It's not the way things are done.
LORD GODWYN
Maybe it's time things changed. I think he has the makings of a great king. You
should be proud of him.
[Uther and Godwyn embrace.]
--
[42:01, INT. KING’S PALACE, GRIFFIN STAIRCASE - DAY]
[Arthur catches sight of Gwen descending the stairs and walks up to her. Merlin
takes off in another direction.]
ARTHUR
So...I'm still a single man.
GWEN
Indeed. I don't think you deserve her, actually. She's really very lovely.
ARTHUR
Mmm. Well, I had hoped to have forsaken her for one equally as lovely. Who knows,
perhaps even more so.
GWEN
I do not know of such a person.
ARTHUR
Me neither. But I guess only time will tell.
[Gwen descends the rest of the stairs, Arthur skips to the top.]
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December 6 2010, 18:29
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BBC Merlin: 3x07 The Castle of Fyrien
KILGHARRAH
--
[Gwen puts out the candles, yawns and walks home.]
--
[Gwen gasps when she finds a sinister man - named Fermin - waiting for her.]
GWEN
What do you want?
[Gwen grabs a poker from the fireplace, but another man grabs her from behind and
places a drugged cloth over her face, muffling her scream. Gwen passes out, and
Morgana watches from her window as the men carry Gwen away on a horse.]
--
MERLIN
Rise and shine!
ARTHUR
Can't you think of anything new to say?
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Every morning it is the same thing.
MERLIN
Oh, I'm sorry. How about: shake a leg? Up and at 'em? Let's have you lazy daisy...?
No, you don't like any of them, do you? Okay, er...I'm just gonna go before, before
you decide to do something which...
[Arthur throws a cup at Merlin.]
--
[Morgana enters and sits down to breakfast with Uther and Arthur.]
UTHER
The building works in the lower town have been delayed. I want you to ensure it
doesn't happen again.
ARTHUR
I'll see to it.
UTHER
Good morning, Morgana.
[Merlin moves to pour Morgana's drink, but she places her hand over the cup.]
MORGANA
No, thank you.
UTHER
Anything the matter?
MORGANA
It's Gwen. She didn't turn up for work this morning.
ARTHUR
That's not like her.
MORGANA
I know, it's strange. I hope nothing's wrong.
UTHER
You needn't worry, Morgana. After all, if your maid can no longer be relied upon,
we can easily replace her.
ARTHUR
I'm sure she'll turn up soon enough.
MORGANA
I'm sure.
--
ARTHUR
Go to Gwen's house, find out what's wrong. And Merlin, as quick as you can.
MERLIN
Yes, Sire.
--
[Merlin looks around Gwen's house and finds the cloth she was drugged her with.]
--
[04:09, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[Cenred and Morgause look at Elyan through the peek hole in his cell door.]
MORGAUSE
You found him, then.
CENRED
It was easy. He was exactly where Morgana said he'd be.
--
[04:34, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
CENRED
Guinevere. I trust you had a pleasant journey.
GWEN
Why have you brought me to this place?
CENRED
I have a guest. I thought you might like to meet him.
GWEN
Elyan!
ELYAN
Gwen!
CENRED
Brother and sister reunited. It warms the heart.
ELYAN
What do you want from us?
CENRED
All in good time.
[Cenred and his men leave Gwen and Elyan alone in the throne room.]
GWEN
Why are we here, Elyan? What've you done?
ELYAN
I didn't do anything, I promise. I swear. I was at my forge and they just came for
me. I tried to resist, but they drugged me. There was nothing I could do. What
would a man like Cenred want with us?
GWEN
I wish I knew.
[Morgause and Cenred watch Gwen and Elyan from a hallway above.]
MORGAUSE
You are a cruel man, Cenred.
CENRED
Is it cruel to give them a moment alone? They will have much to discuss.
MORGAUSE
Indeed.
CENRED
Besides, the more she feels for her brother's plight, the more she'll do for us.
--
[Merlin enters with the drugged cloth he found in Gwen's house.]
ARTHUR
What's that?
MERLIN
I found it at Gwen's.
ARTHUR
It's a scrap of cloth.
MERLIN
I know.
ARTHUR
She's a seamstress. How could that possibly be important?
MERLIN
Smell it.
ARTHUR
No thanks.
MERLIN
Just smell it.
[Arthur takes the cloth and inhales deeply.]
MERLIN
What are you...?
[Arthur passes out and Merlin magically pulls out a chair to catch Arthur. Arthur
comes around.]
ARTHUR
What is that?
MERLIN
It's a compound of hogswart and phylarian.
ARTHUR
Argh, what?
MERLIN
I'm just guessing.
ARTHUR
You could knock a man out with that.
MERLIN
Yes. Or a woman?
--
GWEN
Where have you taken Elyan?
CENRED
He's safe. For now.
GWEN
How do I know that?
CENRED
We can talk about your brother later. I want to talk about you, and what you can do
for me.
GWEN
What could I possibly do for you?
CENRED
You can bring me Arthur Pendragon.
GWEN
I'm just a servant, I have no influence with the Prince.
CENRED (laughs)
I think we both know that's not true.
GWEN
I don't know what you're talking about.
CENRED
Enough! You will bring him here. I don't care how you do it, all I care is that it
is done. You have a week.
GWEN
And if I do not?
CENRED
Then I'll let you watch while I tear your brother's heart out.
--
ARTHUR
The guards saw her leave the palace at the usual time. After that, nothing.
UTHER
ARTHUR
Sire, I have reason to believe that Guinevere has been kidnapped.
MORGANA
Kidnapped?
ARTHUR
I'd like to organise a search party.
UTHER
I hardly think that would be appropriate.
ARTHUR
Father?
UTHER
She's just a serving girl.
ARTHUR
She's the maid to the King's ward.
UTHER
Very well. Send a squad of guards to search the lower town.
ARTHUR
And the countryside?
UTHER
They have until nightfall.
ARTHUR
Father, I'm not sure I can achieve...
UTHER
Arthur, I have a kingdom to protect. I cannot waste precious resources on a
servant, whatever their circumstances.
--
[Morgana wakes the next morning as Gwen gathers her laundry.]
MORGANA
Gwen? Where have you been?
GWEN
I'm sorry, My Lady, I was unwell.
MORGANA
Are you better now?
GWEN
Much better, thank you.
MORGANA
Well, don't tire yourself out. Whatever you need to do, I'm sure it can wait.
--
[Gwen bumps into Merlin and falls down, dropping Morgana's laundry. Merlin helps
her pick it up.]
MERLIN
Gwen! I've been searching the whole town for you. Arthur's been worried sick.
GWEN
That's very sweet of him. I just had a cold, that's all.
MERLIN
I went to your house, Gwen, you weren't there.
GWEN
Oh, no, erm...I, er...was just...
[Merlin notices Gwen's bruised wrists.]
MERLIN
Who did that to you?
GWEN
No one, it was an accident.
MERLIN
Gwen. Look at me.
GWEN
It's fine. I'm fine.
[Gwen breaks down crying.]
--
[10:43, INT. KING’S PALACE, GWEN'S HOUSE - DAY]
[Merlin prepares Gwen some tea and sits with her at her kitchen table.]
GWEN
What I don't understand is how they knew.
MERLIN
About?
[Gwen looks towards Merlin.]
MERLIN
Arthur's feelings for you. It's common knowledge Arthur would lay down his life for
any of his subjects. Cenred could've taken anyone.
GWEN
Do you really believe that?
MERLIN
All I know is you're back home safe with your friends. You don't have to face this
alone.
GWEN
Yes I do, Merlin. This is my problem. I can't involve Arthur. I won't.
MERLIN
Arthur's already involved.
GWEN
Not if I don't tell him about it.
MERLIN
Gwen. If Arthur was in trouble, wouldn't you want him to come to you?
GWEN
You know I would.
--
ARTHUR
The Castle of Fyrien, I'm sure of it.
MERLIN
Never even heard of it.
ARTHUR
Fyrien was a merchant.
[Morgana listens at the door.]
ARTHUR
He built a castle on the sea of Marador as an outpost for trade routes to the east,
but when war broke out with Caerleon, the trade dried up. The castle was abandoned.
MERLIN
And so it's ruined now?
ARTHUR
Well, no. It was built to withstand anything. For Cenred, it's the perfect hideout.
MERLIN
Doesn't sound like an easy place to get into.
ARTHUR
It isn't. It will be well defended.
GWEN
I'm sorry, I shouldn't've brought this to you.
ARTHUR
You did the right thing. Your brother will come to no harm, I promise.
GWEN
How can you be so sure?
ARTHUR
Because we're going to rescue him.
MERLIN
What do you mean "we"?
ARTHUR
The three of us.
GWEN
Cenred wants you dead. That's why he's doing this.
ARTHUR
I know. Cenred's wanted Camelot's throne for as long as I can remember.
MERLIN
Then we'll be walking into a trap.
ARTHUR
Not necessarily.
--
[12:46, EXT. FOREST, STONEHENGE - NIGHT]
MORGAUSE
Sister. Is everything in place?
MORGANA
Arthur's taken the bait.
MORGAUSE
So he means to rescue her brother?
MORGANA
Just as we thought. There is nothing he would not do for her.
MORGAUSE
Excellent. And he comes alone, I take it?
MORGANA
Uther would never sanction an army for such a task. He rides with just Gwen and
Merlin.
MORGAUSE
Perfect. He is as good as ours.
MORGANA
And once he is dead?
MORGAUSE
Why, then you are Uther's only child, and when the time is right, you may take your
place on the throne of Camelot.
--
ARTHUR
Father.
UTHER
Hmm? What is it?
ARTHUR
It's, er...it's slightly awkward.
UTHER
Oh?
ARTHUR
I was drawn into a wager...and I lost.
UTHER
Arthur, you know how I disapprove of gambling.
ARTHUR
I know. I'm sorry...
UTHER
How much do you owe?
ARTHUR
Two silk dresses.
UTHER
Excuse me?
ARTHUR
Well, at least enough silk to have them made, anyway.
UTHER
What kind of wager was this, exactly?
ARTHUR
It was Morgana's idea.
UTHER (laughs)
I should have guessed. Really, Arthur, you should know better than to bet against
Morgana.
ARTHUR
I know. The thing is, the cloth cannot be obtained in Camelot. So, I'm going to
have to leave the city for a couple days.
UTHER
I'd get going if I were you. Don't want to keep her waiting. She'll have your guts.
ARTHUR
Thank you, Father.
--
GAIUS
Morgana? Are you certain?
MERLIN
Yeah. She's been feeding Cenred information. How else would he know about Arthur's
feelings for Gwen?
GAIUS
Then there's no denying it.
MERLIN
No. And if I could just go to Arthur and tell him what I know...
GAIUS
But you can't. It'd be your word against Morgana's, and she's the King's daughter.
MERLIN
I know. She's found Arthur's weak spot.
GAIUS
Well, Arthur can't sacrifice himself for Gwen's brother.
MERLIN
No, of course not. We're going to rescue him instead.
GAIUS
You're going to snatch this boy from under Cenred's nose? You and Arthur? Morgana
knows nothing of this?
MERLIN (scoffs)
No.
GAIUS
Merlin, look after yourself.
--
[Merlin prepares the horses.]
MORGANA
Aren't you forgetting something?
MERLIN
I don't think so.
MORGANA
But I'm coming with you. Didn't Arthur say?
MERLIN
No, he didn't.
[Arthur hops over the Courtyard Corridor ledge dresses in his chainmail.]
ARTHUR
Don't just stand there, Merlin. We need another horse.
MERLIN
Why didn't you tell me she was coming?
ARTHUR
Why should I? What difference does it make to you?
MERLIN
I think it's a bad idea.
ARTHUR
Who's going to watch my back if we get into trouble?
MERLIN
I am.
ARTHUR (snorts)
Come on, she's a darn sight better with a sword than you'll ever be, and you know
it. Besides, she insisted.
MERLIN
I bet she did.
--
[16:08, EXT. WOODS, ROAD - DAY]
[Gwen looks around the woods warily.]
ARTHUR
I used to be afraid of these woods.
GWEN
I find that hard to believe.
ARTHUR
My father would bring me here when I was a boy, and it seemed every falling leaf
was a bandit, every puff of wind was a ghost. You just get used to it in the end.
GWEN
I don't think I'd ever get used to it.
ARTHUR
You don't have to. You've got me.
[Gwen and Arthur smile at each other. Arthur remembers he's not alone with Gwen and
looks back to see Merlin's grin.]
ARTHUR
What I mean is, in the event of an attack we'll watch out for each other. Morgana,
I think I can rely on your protection?
MORGANA
Of course.
ARTHUR
And Gwen, you'll look after Merlin, won't you?
[Gwen giggles.]
--
[17:07, EXT. WOODS, CAMPSITE - DAY]
ARTHUR
Go get some more firewood, would you Merlin?
MERLIN
I thought Morgana was doing that?
ARTHUR
Well, go and see if she's alright.
MERLIN
Why wouldn't she be?
ARTHUR
I don't know, maybe there are wolves in these woods.
MERLIN
No...I don't think so.
ARTHUR
Merlin...
[Arthur mouths "you" and jerks his head away from the campsite. Merlin looks over
at Gwen and Arthur nods.]
MERLIN
Oh, yeah. Yeah, of course. The wolves.
[Merlin hurries off. Gwen struggles to untie something from her saddle.]
ARTHUR
You need some help with that?
GWEN
Thanks.
--
[18:01, EXT. WOODS - DAY]
[Merlin wanders near Morgana as she collects firewood.]
MORGANA
What do you want Merlin?
MERLIN
Arthur sent me. He wanted to make sure that you were OK.
MORGANA
How very thoughtful of him.
MERLIN
Well, he cares for you. You know, Gwen too. They're your friends, Morgana. They've
always been loyal to you.
MORGANA
MERLIN
Because I don't understand how anyone would want to hurt their friends.
MORGANA
No, you just poison them. You'd do well, Merlin, to stay out of things that do not
concern you.
MERLIN
Oh, but they do concern me, cause they're my friends too. And I'll do whatever it
takes to protect them.
MORGANA
I would expect nothing less.
--
[19:00, EXT. WOODS, CAMPSITE – DAY]
[Gwen carries gear between her horse and the fire pit while Arthur sits trying to
light the campfire.]
ARTHUR
Sit for a moment. You're wearing me out just watching you.
GWEN
It's good to keep busy. Stops me thinking too much.
ARTHUR
'Cause you're worried about Elyan.
[Gwen pauses and then sits down by the fire pit.]
GWEN
I'm always worried about Elyan. He's just one of those people, never settled down,
never thinks about the future, just follows his heart wherever it leads him.
ARTHUR
Doesn't sound so bad.
GWEN
Well, it wouldn't be, except he always manages to be in the wrong place at the
wrong time.
ARTHUR
Well, I don't think it's his fault this time.
GWEN
No. But even if it was, I'd still be there for him.
GWEN
It's what you do when you love someone, isn't it? ...If anything happens to you, I
won't forgive myself.
ARTHUR
Don't worry. It won't.
[Arthur continues trying to light the fire with the flints.]
ARTHUR
What's wrong with these things?
GWEN
Here, let me.
[Gwen takes the flints and lights the fire on her second try.]
GWEN
I'm a blacksmith's daughter, remember?
ARTHUR
Mmm.
[Arthur and Gwen lean in to kiss. Morgana and Merlin return and they break apart.
Merlin pauses when he sees them.]
MERLIN
I think I may have missed a twig back there. Erm..would you like me to go and get
it?
[Arthur glares at Merlin.]

MERLIN (mouths)
I could go.
--
[21:05, EXT. WOODS, CAMPSITE - NIGHT]
[The four travellers sit around the campfire, finishing dinner.]
ARTHUR
Cenred's chosen his hideout well. Now, the Castle of Fyrien backs onto the sea, we
will be vastly outnumbered, and his lookouts will spot us well before we've reached
the gates. So, we can't go that way.
MORGANA
But there's no other way, surely?
ARTHUR
Yes, there is.
MERLIN
Erm, more beans? Anyone?
ARTHUR
No thanks. When Caerleon was defeated by my father at the Battle of Danaria, he
retreated to the Castle of Fyrien and it seemed a victory would be denied us, but
my father knew of a secret labyrinth beneath the castle.
MORGANA
A labyrinth?
ARTHUR
Fyrien was greedy. So, to avoid Camelot's levies, he dug tunnels from the castle to
the sea. That way he could smuggle goods into the kingdom without anyone knowing.
MORGANA
And you ambushed Caerleon using these old tunnels.
ARTHUR
He never saw us coming. And neither will Cenred.
--
[22:04, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Morgana meets Morgause.]
MORGAUSE
So they are heading for the castle as planned?
MORGANA
Yes, but Arthur means to catch you unawares.
MORGAUSE
What do you mean?
MORGANA
He knows of some tunnels beneath the castle.
MORGAUSE
There must be a secret entrance. Did he say where?
MORGANA
I'm sorry, that's all I know.
MORGAUSE
Then your work is not yet done, Sister. When you find the entrance, you must lead
us to it.
MORGANA
But how?
[Morgause pulls out a ring.]
MORGAUSE
Lære us, forþbrenge us, ætlæde us. Heofoncandel ure. When you are certain that you
are alone, cast it upon the ground. Its magic will guide us.
--
[22:53, EXT. WOODS, CAMPSITE - NIGHT]
[Morgana returns to the campsite and climbs under her blankets. Merlin turns to see
that she's returned.]
--
[23:22, EXT. WOODS, CAMPSITE - DAY]
[Merlin and Morgana prepare their horses the next morning.]
MERLIN
Trouble sleeping?
MORGANA
If you have a problem, Merlin, why don't you try talking to Arthur about it? No?
Well, keep your mouth shut, then.
--
[Merlin spots a snake as they ride through the woods.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Nædre Morganam forgripe.
[The snake spooks Morgana's horse, and she screams as she's thrown off.]
MERLIN
Are you alright?
MORGANA
Ow, my leg.
ARTHUR
Can you walk?
MERLIN
No, it's your ankle. You need to rest it.
ARTHUR
We don't have that kind of time.
GWEN
We can't go on without her.
MERLIN
What other choice do we have?
MORGANA
No, no, it's alright. I can go on.
MERLIN
No, you can't! You'll only make it worse.
MORGANA
I said I'm fine.
ARTHUR
You were lucky. It could've been serious. Come on, Merlin, don't just stand there.
You alright?
MORGANA
Yeah.
--
CENRED
Morgana will lead us to the tunnel entrance?
MORGAUSE
She has not failed us so far.
CENRED
Then Arthur's fate is sealed.
MORGAUSE
If you do your job properly.
CENRED
Don't worry about me.
MORGAUSE
I don't, believe me.
CENRED
And I thought you cared.
MORGAUSE
I care only that Morgana takes her rightful place upon the throne of Camelot.
CENRED
I share that desire, Morgause.
MORGAUSE
Of course you do. After all, you stand to gain much from Arthur's death.
CENRED
I don't deny it. But I am rich and powerful already. I do this only to please you.
MORGAUSE
Is that so? Then please me.
--
[25:37, EXT. ROCKY SHORELINE NEAR THE CASTLE OF FYRIEN - DAY]
MERLIN
Are you sure we shouldn't try to sneak into the castle itself. It might be easier.
ARTHUR
No, the tunnels are a better bet. That way the element of surprise is guaranteed.
MERLIN
No, no, no.
ARTHUR
Are you questioning my judgment?
MERLIN
No, no. Its, it's just, er...an instinct, that's all.
ARTHUR
Oh, well, if you got an instinct, we should ignore my lifetime of military
experience.
MERLIN
What if it's a trap? What if Cenred knows about the tunnels?
ARTHUR
I'm willing to bet my life he doesn't.
--
[26:22, EXT. TUNNEL ENTRANCE - DAY]
ARTHUR
Here we are. Stay close.
[Morgana places the enchated ring on a rock and it begins to emit orange smoke.]
--
[27:03, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, TUNNELS - DAY]
[Merlin runs into some thick cobwebs in the tunnels.]
MERLIN
Blech, augh!
ARTHUR
Stop worrying about your hair, Merlin.
MERLIN
Very funny.
ARTHUR
It's a good sign. Means that no one's been down here.
[Gwen separates some cobwebs and a skeleton pops out at her. She screams. Arthur
lights a torch revealing lots of armoured skeletons on the ground.]
ARTHUR
Caerleon's last stand.
MERLIN
Where's Morgana?
MORGANA
I'm here.
ARTHUR
Stick together, everyone. We need to keep moving.
[Footsteps approach.]
ARTHUR (whisper)
Quiet. Quick, this way.
[Arthur leads them to another tunnel, but footsteps approach from that direction as
well.]
ARTHUR
We're trapped.
MERLIN
How did they know we were here?
GWEN
It was probably my scream. I'm sorry.
[They attempt to fend off Cenred's men, but Gwen is captured and Arthur
surrenders.]
--
CENRED
Well, well, Arthur Pendragon. How kind of you to pay me a visit. And look, you
brought some friends with you. Oh, the Lady Morgana, no less.
MORGANA
Don't so much as breathe on me, you pig.
CENRED
Well, the more the merrier, I say.
ARTHUR
I'm the one you want, Cenred. Let them go.
CENRED
You're right, that would only be fair. But fair's for fools. Take them away!
ARTHUR
I won't let you harm them! They're innocent!
CENRED
Innocent? No friend of Camelot is innocent!
--
[30:25, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, GWEN AND ELYAN'S PRISON CELL - DAY]
ELYAN
You shouldn't've come back for me, Gwen. What were you thinking?
GWEN
You're probably right. You'd think I'd've learnt by now.
GWEN
I only hope Arthur can think of something.
ELYAN
Arthur?
GWEN
Prince Arthur. I came with him.
ELYAN
Prince Arthur of Camelot?
GWEN
Yes, Elyan, Prince Arthur of Camelot.
ELYAN
Why would he want to help you?
GWEN
Why shouldn't he?
ELYAN
Er, because he's a prince and you're a servant.
GWEN
He doesn't care about that sort of thing. He's...you know...chivalrous.
ELYAN
Right. So he's like that with all the maids in Camelot?
GWEN
No. Yes. I mean...
[Gwen sighs in defeat and Elyan smiles.]
ELYAN
It seems that things have changed for you, Guinevere.
GWEN
Yes, I suppose they have.
ELYAN
I'm glad.
--
MORGAUSE
Sister, you are unharmed, I trust.
MORGANA (to Cenred)

No thanks to your men.
CENRED
Forgive me, but, er...we must keep up appearances.
MORGANA
What've you done with Arthur?
MORGAUSE
He's safely under lock and key.
MORGANA
Why not just kill him now?
CENRED
How cold hearted you've become.
MORGAUSE
The Prince still has his uses. He knows more about Camelot's defences than anyone.
MORGANA
Arthur will never tell you anything.
MORGAUSE
Cenred has his methods.
--
[32:09, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, ARTHUR AND MERLIN'S PRISON CELL - DAY]
MERLIN
I don't understand why we're not dead already.
ARTHUR
Because Cenred will want to torture me first. Find out what I know.
MERLIN
Aren't you afraid?
ARTHUR
No. Not in the slightest.
MERLIN
Sorry, I don't understand. How, how can you not be afraid of pain?
ARTHUR
I am afraid of pain, there's just not going to be any.
MERLIN
Right. So, you go into some sort of trance?
ARTHUR
What are you talking about? There's not going to be any because we are going to
escape from this filthy cell and rescue the others.
MERLIN
You got a plan.
ARTHUR
Not as such.
--
[32:59, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, GWEN AND ELYAN'S PRISON CELL - DAY]
ELYAN
You're angry with me, aren't you?
GWEN
A bit. Where've you been, Elyan?
ELYAN
Here and there.
GWEN
It's been four years since you left and not so much as a word! You could've been
dead for all I knew!
ELYAN
I meant to get in touch. It just never seemed like the right moment.
GWEN
So, when our father died, wasn't that the right moment either?
ELYAN
I'm sorry. I haven't been much help, have I?
--
[33:50, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, ARTHUR AND MERLIN'S PRISON CELL - DAY]
MERLIN
Help! Quick!
[Merlin pounds on the door and a guard opens the peek hole in the door.]
MERLIN
The Prince has escaped. I'm so sorry. I- I wish I knew where he was, but I...
[Merlin looks up at the ceiling.]
MERLIN
Oh, there he is.
[The guards look up. Arthur smiles and drops down on the guards. Arthur knocks out
one, and Merlin takes out the other.]
ARTHUR
Wonders never cease.
MERLIN
Heh.
--
[34:33, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, DUNGEON CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur peek around the corner at the guards outside Gwen and Elyan's
prison cell.]
ARTHUR
Any ideas?
MERLIN
Just this one.
[Merlin pushes Arthur out in front of the guard, Fermin.]
ARTHUR
Ha. Hello again.
[Fermin fights Arthur and pins him against the wall.]
FERMIN
I'm going to enjoy this.
MERLIN
Gyrdel.
[Fermin's belt breaks and his trousers fall down.]
ARTHUR
Know what your problem is? All mouth and no trousers!
[Arthur shoves Fermin through the door of Gwen and Elyan's cell.]
ARTHUR
You all right?
GWEN
Yes.
ARTHUR
Where's Morgana?
GWEN
I thought she was with you.
ARTHUR
They must be holding her somewhere else. Let's go.
--
[35:20, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, CORRIDOR - DAY]
ARTHUR
Take Gwen and Elyan with you. Guard them with your life.
MERLIN
What about you?
ARTHUR
I'm going to get Morgana.
MERLIN
No, you can't! It's too dangerous.
ARTHUR
Sorry, Merlin, I'm not leaving without her.
[Arthur checks around a corner.]
GUARD (distant)
I think they went that way.
[Arthur jogs back to Gwen.]
ARTHUR
When you get to the horses, ride straight for Camelot. Do not wait for me. Promise.
GWEN
But I...
ARTHUR
Promise.
GWEN
I promise.
[Arthur leaves, Gwen and Elyan begin to run in the opposite direction.]
MERLIN
Elyan! Look after Gwen. I'm going after him.
GWEN
Good luck.
MERLIN
You too.
--
CENRED
Arthur.
MORGANA
You should've killed him when you had the chance!
CENRED
He won't get far. My men will deal with him easily enough.
MORGANA
Cenred, if he escapes...
MORGAUSE
Do not fret, Sister. You are like family to our brave Prince. He will not leave
this place without you. And when he comes, we'll be waiting.
CENRED
And then, My Lady Morgana, you must play your part well.
MORGANA
When have I not?
--
[36:35, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, THRONE ROOM CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Arthur peeks around the corner at the guards, then casually saunters around the
corner.]
ARTHUR
Evening!
[Arthur takes out the guards.]
--
[Arthur bursts in and Cenred guards Morgana with a sword.]
CENRED
That's close enough.
MORGANA
Please don't hurt me.
CENRED
One more step and she dies.
ARTHUR
You're a coward, Cenred. You always were.
CENRED
Ha-ha. It's cowards that survive, Arthur. Now put down your sword.
[Morgause comes out from behind a pillar.]
MORGAUSE
Do as he says. You seem surprised.
ARTHUR
Hardly. I know what you're capable of.
MORGAUSE
Oh, you have no idea.
[Merlin watches from the doorway as Morgause summons a pillar of fire and pushes it
towards Arthur.]
MERLIN
Miere torr sweoloþhat!
[The fire pillar explodes and blows everyone backwards. The ceiling collapses on
Cenred and Morgause. Arthur goes to Morgana as she gets up.]
ARTHUR
You alright? Come on.
[Merlin enters the throne room.]
ARTHUR
Merlin?! What the hell are you doing here?!
MERLIN
I thought you might need some help!
ARTHUR
Get out of here now!
[Merlin grabs Morgana's arm and drags her out of the room.]
--
[38:47, INT. CASTLE OF FYRIEN, TUNNELS - DAY]
MORGANA
I can't go on!
MERLIN
What's the matter? Worried about your friends?
MORGANA
No! My ankle!
MERLIN
I'm not a fool, Morgana! I know what you're trying to do!
MORGANA
You know nothing!
MERLIN
Come on!
ARTHUR
What's wrong?
MORGANA
My ankle.
[Arthur picks Morgana up in a fireman's carry.]
MORGANA
What are you doing?!
ARTHUR
Trust me, I don't like it any more than you do! Come on, Merlin!
--
[Arthur carries Morgana through the woods until he sees Gwen and Elyan waiting with
the horses.]
ARTHUR
I thought I told you to ride for Camelot.
GWEN
You might be a prince, but I don't always have to do what you tell me to.
[Cenred's men attack. Arthur takes out one. Elyan kills the other.]
ARTHUR
Not bad.
ELYAN
Well, practice makes perfect, I guess.
--
[The rescue party rides along a trail in the woods.]
ARTHUR
What did Cenred want with you?
MORGANA
He was trying to extract information. I told him nothing.
ARTHUR
See, that's what men like Cenred will never understand. Camelot was built on trust
and loyalty. We will never be defeated as long as we stay true to those ideals.
--
[Someone knocks on the door while Arthur writes at his table.]
ARTHUR
Come in.
[Gwen enters with a pair of dresses.]
ARTHUR
What are they?
GWEN
Two silk dresses. In case your father asks any questions.
ARTHUR
Ah, where'd you get them from?
GWEN
Well...let's just say they won't be missed for a day or two.
ARTHUR
How's Elyan settling in?
GWEN
Really well. He's got the forge up and running and a place to live. He really
appreciates all the help you've given him.
[Gwen hesitates.]
ARTHUR
Was there anything else?
GWEN
I just wanted to say thank you for bringing my brother back. It means more to me
than I can say.
ARTHUR
Well, it's like you said, Guinevere. It's what you do when you love someone.
-----------------------------------------------
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December 6 2010, 18:30
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BBC Merlin: 3x08 The Eye of the Phoenix
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM/ANTECHAMBER – NIGHT]
[Arthur washes his face, puts on a white ceremonial garb, and kneels in the Throne
Room. Gwen comes up behind Merlin and the two of them watch Arthur from the
antechamber. They whisper to each other.]
GWEN
What's he actually doing?
MERLIN
Thinking.
GWEN
About?
MERLIN
You.
[Gwen hits him.]
MERLIN
Shh.
MERLIN
He has to decide upon a quest.
GWEN
Crouching on his knees all night's going to help?
MERLIN
Yes. He has to transcend his body so that the quest is revealed to him in a vision.
GWEN
And you're going to stay here and watch him?
MERLIN
Gwen, this is one of the most important days in a prince's life.
GWEN
Oh.
--
[01:53, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM ANTECHAMBER - DAY]
[Merlin snores on the floor. He wakes when Uther and the council descend the steps
and enter the throne room. Uther touches Arthur's shoulder.]
UTHER
It is time. What is the quest you have chosen?
ARTHUR
I can see but one path, sir. I am to enter the realm of the Fisher King and find
the golden trident spoken of in the legends of The Fallen Kings.
UTHER
You do understand that if you are to prove yourself worthy of the throne, you must
complete this task alone and unaided.
ARTHUR
I do.
--
[Merlin stuffs his face with bread.]
GAIUS
You'll get hiccups.
MERLIN
Who was the Fisher King?
GAIUS
He was a sorcerer who lived many hundreds of years ago.
MERLIN
And?
GAIUS
Legend has it he was wounded in battle. The wound festered and the infection
spread, not just through his body, but through his lands as well. His mighty
kingdom was reduced to a wasteland, and it has remained that way to this very day.
MERLIN
I don't understand. Why is Uther so worried?
GAIUS
Some believe the FIsher King's still alive, kept from death by his magic.
MERLIN
Do you?
GAIUS
Perhaps. Perhaps not. But the people of the north call the area The Perilous Lands.
Few who have ever ventured there have lived to tell the tale.
--
[Merlin makes Arthur's bed while Arthur studies maps at his desk. Merlin hiccoughs.
Arthur looks up.]
MERLIN
I ate too quickly. (hic)
ARTHUR
Merlin...
MERLIN
I can't help it.
ARTHUR
I need to concentrate.
[Merlin nods.]
MERLIN
(hic)
ARTHUR
I am trying to prepare for one of the most important moments in my life.
MERLIN
All these maps... (muffled hic) none of them are the same.
ARTHUR
Well done, Merlin. Do you know why?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
Because hardly anyone's ever been there.
MERLIN
Couldn't you have chosen something a bit easier?
ARTHUR
I'm meant to be proving my worth to the people. A quick trip to the lower town to
collect a bundle of herbs probably won't cut it.
MERLIN
But the Perilous Lands are...perilous. Maybe I should come with you.
ARTHUR
What for?
MERLIN
To...help out.
ARTHUR
You really don't get it, do you? The task must be completed alone and unaided.
That's the way it's been for hundreds of years. It's not about to change for you.
Now, if you don't mind, I have some important preparation to do.
MERLIN
(hic)
--
[Gwen and Morgana shop in the market. An old woman grabs Morgana's arm.]
MORGAUSE
Please, please, just spare me a few minutes of your time, Sister.
[Morgana realises it's Morgause, then nods and goes with her.]
GWEN
My Lady?!
MORGANA
It's alright, Gwen. I won't be a moment.
MORGAUSE
We must be quick, Sister. This enchantment will not hold for long. Tell me, what
has Arthur chosen as his quest?
MORGANA
He sets out tomorrow for the Perilous Lands.
MORGAUSE
How perfect.
[Morgause pulls out the Eye of the Phoenix bracelet.]
MORGAUSE
Present this to the Prince as a token of your good wishes. When the time is right,
you must make a likeness of the Prince and bind it to the gift using the skills
that I taught you. When he does not return, you, Sister, will take your rightful
place as sole heir to the throne of Camelot.
[Morgause passes behind Gwen as she walks back down the street. Gwen sees
Morgause's reflection in a mirror. Gwen gasps and spins around but only sees the
old woman. Morgana returns to the stall.]
GWEN
My Lady! Are you alright?
MORGANA
Why wouldn't I be?
GWEN
I...I thought...
MORGANA
That poor woman didn't have a penny to feed her family. I felt duty bound to help
her, Gwen.
--
[08:01, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CORRIDOR – DAY]
[Gwen waits for Arthur outside his chambers.]
GWEN
I know you have to go, but...
ARTHUR
I'll be careful.
GWEN (sigh)
For me.
[Arthur kisses Gwen and leaves.]
--
[Arthur bows to Uther and Morgana. They watch as he mounts his horse.]
MORGANA
You look troubled, Sire.
UTHER
He is sole heir to the throne, Morgana.
MORGANA
Don't worry. I'm certain a Pendragon will rule over Camelot for a long time to
come.
[Arthur and Merlin nod to each other. Merlin's gaze is magically drawn to the
bracelet.]
ARTHUR
Beautiful, isn't it? It was a gift from Morgana.
--
[Merlin and Gaius search through books.]
GAIUS
You sure it wasn't a jewel?
MERLIN
No, brighter than that.
GAIUS
And you think it was enchanted?
MERLIN
There was magic there, I could feel it.
GAIUS
You sure?
MERLIN (nods)
And if it came from Morgana, it can only mean one thing: Arthur's in danger.
--
[09:53, EXT. FOREST OF ENGRED - DAY]
[Arthur stops in the woods and pulls out a map.]
--
GAIUS
I'm not sure I know where else to look, Merlin.
MERLIN
There has to be something.
GAIUS
We've examined every stone imaginable. Unless...Merlin.
MERLIN
Gaius, that's it!
GAIUS
Then it's not a stone, Merlin. It's an Eye of the Phoenix.
MERLIN
Phoenix?
GAIUS
Some call it the Firebird. Its eye burns with a fire that consumes the life force
of anybody it comes in contact with.
MERLIN
Arthur.
GAIUS
The Eye will draw energy from him. If it's worn for too long, Arthur will die.
MERLIN
I have to go after him.
GAIUS
This is not a task to be undertaken lightly, Merlin. You'll need help.
[Merlin rides out of Camelot.]
--
[Morgana makes an effigy and sets it on fire. Arthur lies down to sleep in woods.
Using magic, Morgana relights the burnt effigy in a box. The Phoenix Eye glows.
Gwen approaches Morgana's door and pauses before opening it without knocking.
Morgana snaps the box closed and stands up as Gwen enters.]
MORGANA
What is it now?
GWEN
I just wanted to see if there's anything you needed.
MORGANA
No. Get out.
GWEN
Is something burning?
MORGANA
I said get out!
[suspicious!Gwen leaves.]
--
[12:21, EXT. FOREST OF ENGRED - DAY]
[Arthur is woken by a pair of bandits the next morning. He is weakened by the
Phoenix Eye, but wins the fight.]
--
[13:10, INT. MERCIA, TAVERN - DAY]
[Gwaine is shoved across the bar.]
MERLIN
Hello, Gwaine.
GWAINE
Ah! Merlin! How are you?
ALTHILD
Give me my money.
[Merlin and Gwaine run through the town, chased by Althild and friends. Gwaine
bumps into someone.]
GWAINE
Sorry.
[Merlin and Gwaine duck behind a table. Merlin peeks out and sees Althild.]
MERLIN
Gwaine. Run.
GWAINE
Remind me again what you're doing here.
MERLIN
Arthur's in trouble, I need your help.
GWAINE
What kind of trouble?
ALTHILD
There!
MERLIN
He's gone to the Perilous Lands.
GWAINE
What, you serious?
MERLIN
Yeah.
GWAINE
Just now, sounds pretty attractive. All right.
[Merlin and Gwaine climb onto the castle wall and look down.]
GWAINE
All right, go for the horses.
MERLIN
You have got to be joking.
[Gwaine shrugs and throws Merlin over edge of the castle wall onto a stack of hay,
then jumps himself.]
GWAINE
Come on.
[Gwaine laughs as they ride away.]
--
[15:11, EXT. THE PERILOUS LANDS, BORDER – DAY]
[Arthur arrives at the border and approaches a bridge in the woods.]
GRETTIR
Who is it that wishes to cross my bridge?
ARTHUR
A knight on a quest to find the trident of the Fisher King.
GRETTIR
Then you must be Courage.
ARTHUR
No, I'm Prince Arthur of Camelot.
[Grettir steps forward to shake Arthur's hand.]
GRETTIR
I'm Grettir. I have to say, you're not as short as I thought you'd be. Before I let
you pass, I'll give you a little advice, as Courage there are two more things
you'll need to complete your quest: Strength and Magic.
ARTHUR
I don't condone the use of magic.
GRETTIR
You'd be wise not to dismiss it so freely. The rules in the land that you are
heading to are quite different to those in the world that you know.
ARTHUR
Thank you for your help.
[Grettir steps aside. Arthur steps forward to pass him, but Grettir grabs his arm.]
GRETTIR
That's a very beautiful bracelet.
ARTHUR
It was a gift from someone very dear to me. She hoped it would bring me good
fortune.
GRETTIR
Did she now?
[Grettir lets go.]
GRETTIR
How very thoughtful of her. (cackle)
[Arthur turns back around and Grettir is gone. Arthur draws his sword and walks
on.]
--
[17:27, EXT. FOREST OF ANDER - DAY]
MERLIN
Why were those men so angry?
GWAINE
It's always the way in gambling. You make a man a fool, he calls you a thief.
GWAINE
How'd you find me?
MERLIN
Wasn't easy. I've been in almost every tavern in Angard.
GWAINE
So have I.
[Gwaine and Merlin laugh.]

--
[17:43, EXT. THE PERILOUS LANDS - DAY]
[Arthur walks alone. The Phoenix Eye glows.]
--
[Gwen fixes Morgana's hair.]
MORGANA
You're so good to me, Gwen. Thank you.
GWEN
It's nothing.
MORGANA
You're upset with me. I know, I shouted at you last night. I'm sorry. What can I do
to make it up?
GWEN
It's forgotten.
MORGANA
Why don't I give you some time off.
[Gwen is suspicious.]
MORGANA
Don't look at me like that. I'm sure I can look after myself for one night.
GWEN
That's very kind of you, My Lady.
MORGANA
I'm glad we're friends again.
GWEN
Before I go, I'll make sure everything's ready for your return.
MORGANA
That's sweet. But don't stay too late.
[Gwen sighs.]
--
[18:52, EXT. THE PERILOUS LANDS, BORDER - DAY]
GWAINE
This is it. On the other side of the forest lie the Perilous Lands.
MERLIN
Doesn't look too friendly.
GWAINE
That's because it's not. Believe me, it's wretched.
MERLIN
How do you know, you've never been there.
GWAINE
I've travelled to many places, Merlin.
MERLIN
Not the Perilous Lands, I know that.
GWAINE
Why?
MERLIN
There aren't any taverns.
GWAINE (laughs)
I told you it was wretched.
--
[Morgana opens the door and looks inside.]
MORGANA
Gwen?
[Morgana pulls a box out of the cupboard, and sets it on the table as Gwen watches
behind the screen. Morgana uses magic to light a fire in the box.]
--
[Arthur submerges in mud.]
--
[20:56, EXT. THE PERILOUS LANDS, THE BRIDGE - DAY]
[Gwaine motions for Merlin to stay put while he scouts the bridge. Merlin nods and
then heads straight for the bridge when Gwaine leaves.]
GRETTIR
So, Magic has arrived.
MERLIN
What?
GRETTIR
There is nothing to be afraid of. Your presence is essential if Arthur is to
succeed on his quest.
MERLIN
How do you know about Arthur? Who are you?
GRETTIR
The Keeper of the Bridge. I only wish to see the Fisher King's lands restored and
prosperity reign again. Until your mission is complete, this cannot happen.
MERLIN
It's not my mission, it's Arthur's.
GRETTIR
That's what you choose to believe. It's no accident that Arthur chose this path or
you chose to follow him.
[Gwaine walks up to Merlin.]

GRETTIR
Ah, Finally! Strength has arrived, the trio is complete.
[Gwaine draws his sword.]
GWAINE
Who's he?
[Grettir turns Gwaine's sword into a large flower.]
GRETTIR
I mean no harm to either of you. And I'd thank you to mean no harm in return.
GWAINE
Where's my sword?
GRETTIR
It will return to you once you reach the other side.
[Gwaine grimaces and crosses the bridge.]
GRETTIR
The Fisher King has waited many years for this day. Do not deny him what he wishes.
[Merlin nods and walks to the bridge.]
GRETTIR
Remember, nothing is as it seems.
--
[Arthur struggles out of the mud.]
--
[23:14, EXT. THE PERILOUS LANDS, CAMPFIRE - NIGHT]
[Gwaine and Merlin hear a distant squeal/roar.]
MERLIN
What was that?
GWAINE
Pheasant.
MERLIN
Pheasant?
GWAINE
Very big one.
[Gwaine picks up his sword.]
MERLIN
You can turn back if you want.
GWAINE
Heh, I'm not scared of pheasants.
MERLIN
I don't know. Why do you want to do this?
GWAINE
Same reason as you: help a friend.
MERLIN
Arthur's lucky to have us.
GWAINE
Not Arthur.
MERLIN
I'd do the same for you.
GWAINE
Well, I'd hope so. You're the only friend I've got.
MERLIN
I'm not surprised.
[Gwaine laughs. There are several roar/squeals in the distance.]
MERLIN
They sound like three pheasants.
GWAINE
At least.
--
[Someone knocks frantically on the door. Gaius opens the door and Gwen steps in.]
GWEN
I'm sorry to wake you.
GAIUS
Don't be silly.
GWEN
I'm not sure who else I can talk to.
GAIUS
What is it, child?
GWEN
It's Morgana.
GAIUS
What's happened?
GWEN
She, she had a box, and...her eyes, it was like they were on fire. What do I do,
Gaius? She's using magic.
GAIUS
Everything may not be as it seems, Gwen.
GWEN
No, no. I know what I saw. I've known Morgana for so long, I didn't want to believe
it, but she...she isn't the person I knew. She's changed, Gaius. I don't think she
means well to any of us anymore.
GAIUS
I wish I could say otherwise, but I fear you're right.
--
[Arthur continues walking wearily, finds The Dark Tower, and sees wyverns in the
sky. Merlin and Gwaine reach The Dark Tower.]
MERLIN
There it is.
GWAINE
What's that in the sky? They're not birds.
MERLIN
I've never seen creatures like that.
GWAINE
It's like they're hunting something.
[Merlin sees a tiny flash of light.]
MERLIN
What was that?
GWAINE
Sword.
MERLIN
It's Arthur.
[Arthur tries to fend off the wyverns while he runs for the Dark Tower. Arthur
enters and lowers the portcullis. Merlin and Gwaine approach the Dark Tower, but
pause when they see the wyverns.]
GWAINE
I should've known.
MERLIN
What are they?
GWAINE
Wyverns. Distant cousins of the dragon. They're creatures of magic, so be careful.
[Wyverns continue chasing Arthur while Merlin and Gwaine crawl under the
portcullis.]
GWAINE
Okay.
MERLIN
Quick, quick, quick!
[Merlin drops the portcullis when Gwaine gets through.]
MERLIN
Lets split up.
--
[28:39, INT. THE DARK TOWER - DAY]
[Arthur moves further into the Dark Tower and barricades himself in. Merlin and
Gwaine search for him.]
GWAINE
Arthur?! Arthur?!
[Arthur faints. The Phoenix Eye glows. Wyverns get through the door. Merlin finds
Arthur and jumps in front of the wyverns.]
MERLIN
*dragonspeak*
[Wyverns bow and exit submissively. Merlin removes the Phoenix Eye from Arthur's
wrist. Arthur wakes.]
ARTHUR
What the hell are you doing here?
MERLIN
Why can you never just say thanks?
ARTHUR
Thanks?! What? For completely ruining the quest?!
MERLIN
Well, it's a good job I was here, otherwise you'd be wyvern fodder by now.
ARTHUR
How many times do I have to get it into your thick skull? I am suppose to be doing
this alone!
[A third wyvern screeches behind Merlin, ready to attack. Gwaine stabs it in the
back.]
ARTHUR
Great. This just gets better and better. Are Gwen and Morgana here too? Are we
going to have a surprise party?
GWAINE
There're more wyverns on their way. We need to get out of here.
ARTHUR
I'm not leaving without the trident. It was the whole point of this quest.
MERLIN
Do you want us to help you? Or do you want to do this alone?
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Merlin smiles and follows. Gwaine rolls his eyes and follows.]
MERLIN
Do you know where the trident is?
ARTHUR
If I did, there wouldn't be a problem, would there?
MERLIN
Any clues you can give us?
ARTHUR
This is a quest, Merlin, not a treasure hunt.
MERLIN
Well, it is sort of a...
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Arthur, Gwaine, and Merlin continue searching the tower.]
--
[31:48, INT. THE DARK TOWER, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[Merlin stops on a spiral staircase to look through a doorway.]
MERLIN
Look at this. Looks like a throne room.
[Gwaine and Arthur come back down the stairs.]
ARTHUR
If the trident's going to be anywhere...
[Merlin takes a step inside the room, the stone beneath him depresses and Gwaine
pushes Merlin into the room to prevent him being squashed by the trap door.]
GWAINE
Merlin, watch out!
[A stone door falls into place.]
GWAINE
Merlin?!
[Gwaine and Arthur press their ears against the door.]
ARTHUR
Merlin?! You alright?!
MERLIN
Gwaine?! Arthur?!
[Merlin presses his ear against the door.]
GWAINE
There's got to be a way to open this.
[Gwaine searches the edges of the door. Merlin turns around and walks toward the
throne.]
FISHER KING
So, Emrys, you are here at last.
[Merlin steps around to the front of the throne where the Fisher King sits, covered
in cobwebs. Merlin bows his head.]
MERLIN
So, you are still alive.
FISHER KING
For now.
--
[33:28, INT. THE DARK TOWER, SPIRAL STAIRCASE - DAY]
ARTHUR
Now I'm sure if we just reach in here...
[Arthur pulls out a brick; bugs come pouring out.]
ARTHUR
...we'll be able to find something to release the door.
GWAINE
Go on, then.
[Gwaine slaps Arthur's back.]
GWAINE
Don't be such a princess. It is your quest, after all.
[Arthur scowls at Gwaine and pulls his glove tight before reaching into the hole.]
--
[33:59, INT. THE DARK TOWER, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[Crumbling stone noises on the other side of the door.]
MERLIN
That would be...
FISHER KING
Your friends Courage and Strength, I know. Without their help, you would not be
here.
MERLIN
What is it you want?
FISHER KING (sigh)

I want an end to my suffering.
MERLIN
You want to die.
FISHER KING
I have been waiting all these years for the arrival of a new time: the time of the
Once and Future King.
MERLIN
I've heard these words before.
FISHER KING
And you will hear them again. For that time is dawning, and my time finally can
come to an end. This is why you were brought here. For this is not Arthur's quest,
it is yours. Arthur thinks the prize is the trident.
[The Fisher King lets the trident fall to the floor.]
FISHER KING
But the real prize is something far greater.
[Merlin sees the glass vial in the King's hand.]
FISHER KING
Water from the Lake of Avalon. I've kept it safe these years, waiting for the right
person to claim it. And that is you. You are the one chosen.
MERLIN
FISHER KING
Albion's time of need is near. And in that dark hour you must be strong, for you
alone can save her. Your powers are great, but you will need help. And that is what
I'm giving you.
[Merlin takes the water vial.]
FISHER KING
When all seems lost, this will show you the way.
MERLIN
Thank you.
FISHER KING
I have given you a gift. Now you must give me one in return.
MERLIN
But I have nothing to give.
[The Fisher King stands.]
FISHER KING (moans)

I think you do.
[Merlin mulls it over, then pulls out the Phoenix Eye bracelet.]
MERLIN
If I give you this, you will die.
[The Fisher King holds out his arm and nods. Merlin nods, drops to one knee and
places the bracelet on the Fisher King's wrist. The Phoenix Eye glows and the
Fisher King is whisked away.]
FISHER KING
Thank you.
[The stone door opens partially and Arthur rolls under it. Merlin gets up.]
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
*sigh*
[Arthur walks forward and slaps him on the arm while looking around. Gwaine sighs
gives Merlin a manly hug.]
ARTHUR
Ha! Look what I found!
[Arthur holds up the Fisher King's trident.]
ARTHUR
Let's get out of this place.
[Merlin and Gwaine exchange a look. Gwaine scoffs. Merlin looks back at the throne
before leaving.]
--
[39:08, EXT. FIELD, CAMELOT’S BORDER – DAY]
[Gwaine, Arthur, and Merlin ride to the edge of a field.]
GWAINE
This is the border. By Uther's decree, I can go no further.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry, Gwaine. Nothing I can do to change that.
MERLIN
Maybe one day.
GWAINE
Yeah. When Camelot gets itself a half-decent king.
ARTHUR
Careful...
[Merlin snickers.]
ARTHUR
He is my father.
GWAINE
Well, you can't have everything, heh?
MERLIN
Where will you go this time.
[Gwaine licks his finger and sticks it in the air.]
GWAINE
I think I'll ride south.
MERLIN
You can't keep living like that.
GWAINE
Yeah, but it's fun trying.
[Arthur nudges his horse forward.]
MERLIN
Thanks, Gwaine.
GWAINE
Hmm. (nods)
ARTHUR
I'll remember this, Gawain.
[Gwaine nods Arthur waves and Gwaine turns to ride off.]
--
[4:07, EXT. FIELD – DAY]
[Arthur and Merlin approach Camelot.]
MERLIN
I've got to say, that was a good quest. Did you meet that man on the bridge? And
then the wyverns; they were really scary. And, oh! the door to the throne room!
That was so close!
ARTHUR
You do talk some nonsense sometimes, Merlin. I mean, what on earth would you even
know about it? It's not like you were there.
MERLIN
Of course I was.
ARTHUR
You were not there. You have not seen me for days. You've been on a little trip to
pick herbs or whatever it is you do in your spare time.
MERLIN
Ah, of course. If your father was to find out you weren't alone...
ARTHUR
Yes, Merlin. So...just keep your mouth shut.
MERLIN
Absolutely, Sire. I'd do anything you say...for a price.
ARTHUR
What kind of price?
MERLIN
A day off.
ARTHUR
Hmm. I think you've had too many of those herbs that you've been picking.
[Arthur sets off at a gallop.]
--
[41:01, INT/EXT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS/MAIN SQUARE - NIGHT]
[Gwen lights candles. Morgana approaches the window and sees Arthur riding into the
Square. Her jaw drops and her hand goes lax on the cup she's holding, the water
pours out until she drops it entirely. Gwen looks down at the cup and goes to
Morgana at the window.]
GWEN
My Lady?
[Gwen sees Arthur dismount in the Square.]
GWEN (whisper)
Arthur! Oh, thank God!
MORGANA
Isn't it wonderful? I'm so happy.
[Gwen looks suspiciously at Morgana and picks up the cup.]
GWEN
I'll clear that up.
--
[Arthur presents the trident at court.]
UTHER
Arthur, I don't know what pleases me more, to be in possession of such a precious
artefact, or to know that you have finally proved yourself to be the man I always
hoped you would be.
ARTHUR
Thank you, Father.
UTHER
I have no doubt that you will one day make a fine king.
--
[Gaius holds up the water vial.]
GAIUS
It's from the Lake of Avalon?
MERLIN
That's what he told me.
GAIUS
Interesting.
MERLIN
You think?
GAIUS
Well, it must have some significance.
MERLIN
Maybe...Do you believe his warnings?
GAIUS
Well, we already know of one enemy within our walls.
MERLIN
Morgana.
GAIUS
Her abilities are growing. Whether the Fisher King is right or wrong, we'd be
foolish to ignore his words.
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December 6 2010, 18:30
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BBC Merlin: 3x09 Love in the Time of Dragons
KILGHARRAH
--
Alice: *spell* Calm yourself, my pretty. We're home now.
--
Uther: Gaius, there have been disturbing rumours from outlying villages
Gaius: Sire?
Uther: Someone, some kind of physician is offering treatments. I fear magic may
have been used.
Gaius: What is it that makes you suspicious?
Uther: There are reports of miracle cures. A boy thrown from a horse, a farmhand
mauled by a boar. All hopeless cases it seems, and yet each and every one has made
a full recovery.
Gaius: It's very hard for me to comment, Sire. I'd have to examine the patients
myself.
Uther: That won't be necessary, as a new case has arisen here in Camelot.
Gaius: Who?
Arthur: The innkeeper. He's returned to work.
Gaius: That's not possible. The condition was critical, I saw him only days ago.
Uther: So you agree that magic must be involved.
Gaius: Well, I couldn't say for sure.
Uther: Then go to the tavern and find out. If sorcery is at work here, we must act
quickly.
Gaius: Yes, Sire. I'll see to it right away.
--
Merlin: It's unbelievable. Uther has no problem turning to magic if his family are
threatened.
Gaius: Keep your voice down, Merlin.
Merlin: Oh, he is such a hypocrite.
Gaius: He's also the King. So, if you value your head, use it.
Evoric: Welcome. Gaius. What a pleasant surprise.
Gaius: Evoric.
Evoric: What can I get you?
Gaius: Nothing. I just dropped in to see how you're doing.
Evoric: Much improved, as you can see.
Gaius: Indeed. Remarkable recovery.
Evoric: All thanks to you, Gaius.
Gaius: Haha. I think not. Evoric, I am, of course, delighted that you're well
again, but I must ask you, from whom did you obtain your remedy?
Evoric: Don't know what you're talking about.
Gaius: Now, you mustn't be afraid. I'm not the King, after all.
Evoric: My wife, she was desperate. I was slipping away.
Gaius: Go on.
Evoric: She met a woman, a healer, in the lower town and she gave her a cure.
Gaius: Well, can I see it? Interesting.
Evoric: Am I in some kind of trouble?
Gaius: No, not at all. You've been most helpful.
--
Uther: What was the nature of this treatment?
Gaius: Hogwart and fenugreek.
Uther: Excuse me?
Gaius: Herbs, Sire. Whoever prescribed them was highly skilled. Their grasp of the
five principles of herbal conjoinment was...
Uther: What about the boy and the labourer? Surely they were beyond the help of
such remedies?
Gaius: Not necessarily, Sire. A physician's art can achieve great things.
Uther: But not miracles. The innkeeper was fatally ill, you said so yourself.
Gaius: Yes, that was indeed my diagnosis. But my knowledge isn't perfect. There are
many branches of my craft are yet mysteries to me. I could not heal the innkeeper.
Someone else could.
Uther: Are you absolutely satisfied that no magic was involved?
Gaius: Entirely, Sire.
Uther: Thank you, Gaius. You've set my mind at rest.
Gaius: My Lord.
--
[physician's chambers]
Merlin: I think it's great, what you did, protecting the innkeeper like that.
Gaius: What do you mean?
Merlin: He was a sick man. It was a matter of life and death. Magic was his only
hope.
Gaius: But he didn't use magic.
Merlin: The potion was enchanted, I saw it with my own eyes. We both did.
Gaius: What you saw, Merlin, was a release of gaseous pressure. Entirely normal in
a preparation of that kind.
Merlin: But what about the totem?
Gaius: What totem?
Merlin: The totem in the innkeeper's doorway bore the marks of the Old Religion.
Gaius: Nonsense. You're obviously tired, Merlin. I recommend you get some sleep.
[Gaius takes the uneaten ham away]
Merlin : Well, can...
--
[Merlin wakes up because he hears Gaius leaving, he follows Gaius]
Alice: Gaius?
Gaius: Alice.
Alice: Oh.
[they hug. guards come. they go inside her house and Merlin goes back to the
castle]
Alice: How did you know I was in Camelot?
Gaius: I recognised your work. Your healing magic was always equal to none.
Alice: Oh, Gaius, you've lost none of your charm.
Gaius: And you've lost none of your skill. You saved the innkeeper's life.
Alice: I did what I could, as I know you did.
Gaius: But my humble potion was not enough, it seems.
Alice: Look at you, always so solemn, so serious.
Gaius: And you always teasing me.
Alice: I missed you.
Gaius: And I you.
Alice: Twenty years and here we are back in Camelot together again. It almost seems
as though nothing has changed.
Gaius: And some things never will.
Alice: Uther.
Gaius: It's not safe for you here. He suspects that magic is at work in Camelot.
Alice: But he doesn't know for sure.
Gaius: Not yet. But if you stay, he will find you.
Alice: But Gaius, healing is my only gift. It is my living. I must buy food, I must
pay rent.
Gaius: But why here? The dangers are too great.
Alice: Because I wanted to see you again.
[they embrace]
Gaius: Dawn is almost upon us. I must get back.
Alice: You will come back tomorrow? Please?
Gaius: Of course.
[Gaius leaves]
Manticore: You have done well. The physician is vital to our plan.
Alice: Please, must we use him this way?
Manticore: I've told you before, Uther trusts him. He alone can get us close enough
to the King.
Alice: But he will be blamed for everything that happens.
Manticore: And you will not. How perfect.
Alice: But his punishment will be terrible.
[Manticore turns her eyes black]
Manticore: You must put aside your feelings and do what needs to be done.
Alice: Yes.
--
[Gaius opens a note that Alice gave him long ago with a lock of her hair]
For my beloved Gaius,
You make me so happy. Words cannot describe how much I care for you. The times we
have spent together recently have meant so much to me. I am so happy we are
engaged. I so look forward to marrying you, Gaius.
--
[physician's chambers in the morning]
Merlin: Did you go out last night?
Gaius: Yes. I had to get some herbs.
Merlin: Herbs?
Gaius: A...a new supplier just arrived.
Merlin: Right. Do your suppliers normally kiss you?
Gaius: You followed me. How dare you?
Merlin: Gaius, it was the middle of the night, I was worried. I thought you might
be in some sort of trouble.
Gaius: There's nothing wrong.
Merlin: What's her name?
Gaius: Alice. She's an old friend. Well, more than a friend, if truth be told.
Merlin: What do you mean?
Gaius: We were once engaged to be married.
Merlin: When was this?
Gaius: More years ago than I care to remember. I had just been made physician to
the King when I met her. It was like finding a kindred spirit, we had so much in
common. Our love of science, or healing, and of magic.
Merlin: Magic?
Gaius: I was just a novice, but Alice's power and ability was uncanny. She had the
gift. Soon she had mastered every aspect of sorcery, healing above all. It was
wonderful to behold, Merlin. She saved a great many lives.
Merlin: It was Alice that cured the innkeeper.
Gaius: Indeed. There was a time when her skills were famous in Camelot.
Merlin: So what happened?
Gaius: Uther declared war on magic. Overnight her world was turned upside-down.
Merlin: The Great Purge.
Gaius: Uther drew up a list of everyone suspected of using magic. One by one, they
were hunted down and executed. As a close friend of the King, I was permitted to
see this list. Alice's name was on it.
Merlin: What did you do?
Gaius: The only thing I could do. I struck her name off.
Merlin: Gaius, if you'd been caught...
Gaius: I know, but it bought her time. Just enough to get out of Camelot, to
escape.
Merlin: But you...you stayed behind.
Gaius: I was scared. I felt I had no choice. I thought I'd never see her again. But
now here she is, after all these years. I feel we've been given a second chance.
--
[Gaius gives Alice a hunk of meat on a platter]
Alice: You have a kind heart. You always did.
Gaius: It's the least I could do.
Alice: Will you stay? Please say you will.
Gaius: You're my only appointment for this morning. I made sure of that.
Alice: You recognise them?
Gaius: Of course. It's a totem of healing.
Alice: Oh, come, Gaius. Is that the best you can do? Have you forgotten all that we
learned together?
Gaius: Let us see. It's a Sorcerer's Chime to give it its proper name. Each crystal
bears an elemental sign of the Old Religion. When enchanted, the crystals resonate,
their music giving succour to the ailing and the sick.
Alice: You've forgotten nothing.
Gaius: I remember everything. All that we saw, all that we did, each and every day
we spent together. I remember the day you left.
Alice: Let's not dwell on that. We found each other again. Isn't that all that
matters?
--
[Arthur is mounted with a lance, Merlin's holding a small hoop above his head.
Arthur charges and catches the hoop with the lance. Next, Merlin crouches behind a
shield while Arthur pounds it with a mace]
Arthur: Come on, Merlin! Put your back into it!
Merlin: Sorry, Sire. I'm just a bit...
[Arthur hits shield again]
Arthur: Pathetic. You're pretending to be a battle hardened warrior, not
a...daffodil.
Merlin: Sorry, Sire. Just a bit tired, that's all.
Arthur: Fair enough.
[Merlin stands up while Arthur fetches a large mallet]
Arthur: Maybe this'll perk you up!
--
[Merlin returns to physician's chambers]
Gaius: Ah, Merlin, I'd like you to meet Alice.
Alice: Merlin, it's a pleasure to meet you. Gaius speaks very highly of you.
Merlin: You too.
Gaius: Alice will be staying with us for a while.
Merlin: Great.
Alice: That's alright with you?
Merlin: Of course. I'll make up the spare bed.
Gaius: So you won't mind if she uses your room?
Merlin: Be my guest.
--
[Merlin trying to sleep on the floor]
Merlin: Ow.
[he hears Alice talking in his room]
Alice: ___ That is his name, isn't it? It's ___
Manticore: So he does not suspect?
Alice: No, nothing.
Manticore: Then you must work hard to keep it that way.
Alice: Yes. Yes.
Manticore: You are doing well. Take some of my venom. Do not fail me. Be careful
not to hurt yourself. That's it.
--
[Merlin and Gaius walking in the town]
Merlin: When you first knew Alice, what kinds of magic did she practice?
Gaius: All kinds. It was a time of experimentation, learning.
Merlin: Right. What about dark magic?
Gaius: I daresay. But those days are long gone.
Merlin: What if they aren't? Last night there was some kind of creature in your
room.
Gaius: Creature?
Merlin: I've never seen anything like it. It had the body of a lion and the tail of
a scorpion.
Gaius: Oh, come on, Merlin. You must've been dreaming.
Merlin: No, I saw it with my own eyes and I could feel its power. It was magic like
nothing I've ever felt before.
Gaius: What utter nonsense.
Merlin: If you don't believe me, Gaius, I can prove it. Come on.
--
[Merlin pulls out the box from under the bed in the physician's chambers]
Merlin: This is it.
Gaius: Merlin, put that back. This has gone far enough.
Merlin: Oh, it's in there. I know it is.
Gaius: Ridiculous.
[Gaius goes to open it]
Merlin: Gaius, no!
[the box is empty]
Gaius: I hope you're satisfied, Merlin.
--
[Merlin goes to library where Geoffrey of Monmouth is sitting]
Merlin: Morning.
--
[Gaius makes potion with Alice's help]
Gaius: Hemlock. Nightshade. Bo...
[Alice already has it ready for him]
Alice: *lol* Oh, Gaius. It's just like old times.
Gaius: We always made a good team, did we not?
Alice: Yeah.
Gaius: I wish Merlin had your skills. I fear he finds the physician's craft boring.
Alice: Well, never mind, you've got me to help you now, haven't you?
Gaius: Indeed, I have. Now where's the valerian?
Alice: Valerian? For an injury, I presume?
Gaius: Perfectly correct. I prescribe it to Uther for an old battle wound.
Alice: He takes it daily?
Gaius: Of course.
--
[Merlin flips through books]
Geoffrey: *ahem* Can I help you?
Merlin: No. Yes. I wonder, do you know anything about this creature?
Geoffrey: Ah, now that is the manticore.
Merlin: A manticore?
Geoffrey: Nasty looking beast, isn't it.
Merlin: Yeah, you can say that again.
Geoffrey: I believe it was first referred to almost a thousand years ago. The
Ancients lived in fear of it, trembled at its very name.
Merlin: I've never even heard of it.
Geoffrey: I'm not surprised. 'Cause as far as I'm aware, the manticore is a legend,
figment of the imagination.
Merlin: Are you sure?
Geoffrey: Oh, yes. So, erm..if you were hoping to see one, I'm afraid you're going
to be disappointed.
--
[physician's chambers]
Gaius: Now it's ready to go to the King.
Alice: Fascinating. Gaius, you said you had a rare form of mountain balm. I should
like to compare it with my own, if I may.
Gaius: Certainly. Now, where did I put it?
Alice: Perhaps with the second order palliatives?
[Alice goes to pour the venom, but Merlin enters and she drops both bottles]
Gaius: Of course.
Alice: I'm so sorry, Gaius.
Gaius: Don't worry. Merlin will clear it up, won't you, Merlin?
Alice: No, no! I can do it.
--
[Merlin sneaks to the library at night where Geoffrey is asleep on a stack of
books. Merlin hits something and Geoffrey wakes]
Geoffrey: What's that? Who's there?
[Merlin floats the objects on Geoffrey's desk]
Merlin [whisper]: No one. You're dreaming. Now go back to sleep.
[Geoffrey nods, puts his head back down to his desk and snores. Merlin rolls his
eyes and goes to sit with a bunch of books, finding Alice's box on one of the
pages]
--
[Next morning Merlin finds Gaius in a corridor]
Merlin: Gaius, I need to talk to you about Alice.
Gaius: Merlin, this must stop.
Merlin: There's a reason the box was empty. It isn't a container, it's a portal, a
gateway for the manticore.
Gaius: This must stop now.
Merlin: No, Alice is up to something, and whatever it is, it isn't good.
Gaius: You're wrong, Merlin. Alice is the kindest and most compassionate person
I've ever known.
Merlin: No. You're wrong, you're just blinded by your feelings for her.
Gaius: I can see perfectly well, Merlin. And what I can see is that you cannot bear
for me to be happy. I cannot begin to guess why that should be, but it saddens me.
More than I can say.
--
[Gaius returns to physician's chambers]
Alice: Gaius, there you are. I was beginning to wonder where you'd got to. What's
wrong?
Gaius: It's nothing. A disagreement with Merlin, that's all.
Alice: Was it about me? You mustn't worry. He's probably a bit jealous, that's all.
Gaius: Jealous?
Alice: Well, it's only to be expected. The poor lad's had you all to himself. He's
bound to be a bit hostile for a while.
Gaius: Very hostile, if truth be told.
Alice: Oh, he'll soon get used to having me around.
Gaius: I'm sure you're right.
Alice: Listen, why don't you sit yourself down for a while and take a break.
Gaius: I must prepare Uther's medicine.
Alice: Well, I can take care of that. You showed me how, remember?
Gaius: Thank you.
--
[Merlin running in the training yard with a target on his back]
Arthur: Run!
[Arthur hits the target with a polearm, knocking Merlin down]
Arthur: You're meant to bob, Merlin, weave. You might as well be a barn door.
[Arthur removes the polearm and helps Merlin up]
Merlin: Yes, Sire.
Arthur: For goodness sake, what is your problem?
Merlin: Nothing.
Arthur: Right. Well, either you tell me, or we go back to the lance and hoops.
Merlin: Gaius and me, we...had a bit of a falling out.
Arthur: Look, I row with my father all the time. You should do what I do, just lie
low and wait till he comes to his senses. It'll soon blow over.
Merlin: No, I don't think so, somehow.
Arthur: Oh, cheer up, will you?
[punches Merlin in the arm]
Merlin: How is punching me in the arm meant to cheer me up?
[Arthur looks confused]
Arthur: It works with the knights.
Merlin: Well, they're thick, aren't they?
Arthur: I'm a knight.
Merlin: There you go, then.
[Arthur punches him again]
--
[Gaius reading in his chambers. Alice brewing Uther's medicine]
Gaius: You gave me this book, do you remember?
Alice: It was on your birthday, wasn't it?
Gaius: Or was it when I was made court physician?
[Alice adds manticore venom to the potion]
Alice: Have a look inside. I'm sure there's an inscription.
Gaius: You're quite right, of course. My 50th birthday.
Alice: Here we are. All done.
[she hands him the potion]
Gaius: Wonderful. Thank you.
Alice: Hurry now. You wouldn't want to keep your King waiting.
Gaius: Really, Alice, I can't imagine how I survived without you.
--
[Uther's chambers]
Uther: Ah, Gaius, you have my medicine.
Gaius: I do, Sire.
Uther: To my very good health.
[Uther drinks it]
--
[night time, Gaius and Alice eating in the physician's chambers. Merlin sits on
some courtyard steps. warning bell sounds. Uther's on the floor in his chambers,
Arthur tries to wake him]
Arthur: Father!
[Gaius enters]
Arthur: I found him this way. I...I can't rouse him.
Gaius: The King's alive, but his pulse is weak.
Arthur: What's wrong with him?
Gaius: Please, I must examine him. Seal off the King's quarters.
[Merlin enters. Uther gasps and his eyes shoot open, but they're completely black]
Merlin: What is that?
Gaius: Hush, Merlin.
[Uther closes his eyes. Gaius finds the empty bottle in the King's hand. Merlin and
Gaius exit the room where Arthur and the guards are waiting]
Arthur: Well?
Gaius: I am afraid I cannot yet determine the cause of your father's illness.
Arthur: Well, he's been poisoned, hasn't he?
Gaius: I cannot say at this stage.
Arthur: Just look at him, Gaius. What else could it be?
Gaius: We must not jump to hasty conclusions, Sire. Please watch over him till I
return.
[Arthur goes into Uther's room, Gaius leaves and Merlin follows him into the
Phoenix Corridor]
Merlin: I don't think we need any more information.
Gaius: Since when are you the expert in such matters?
Merlin: Oh, you don't need to be a physician to see what's happened.
Gaius: Merlin!
Merlin: Gaius, he's been poisoned, and I think we both know who did it.
Gaius: What exactly are you implying?
Merlin: It was Alice. It had to be. She's been helping you with the potions. She's
had every opportunity to corrupt his medicine.
Gaius: Merlin, you have no proof of any of this.
Merlin: How else did he ingest the poison? There is no other explanation.
Gaius: Of course there is.
Merlin: Oh, come on, Gaius! I understand why you're protecting her. Really, I do.
But in your heart of hearts, you must know what I'm saying is true.
Gaius: All I know is that the King is gravely ill and that you're place is by
Arthur's side!
--
[Arthur sitting by his father's bedside]
Arthur: It doesn't make any sense. His food and wine are tasted each and every
meal. It's brought here under armed guard. No one can interfere with it in any way.
So, it can't be his food and drink. The only other thing he's had is...Gaius's
remedy.
Merlin: Arthur, I think I know what happened. I thin...I know who did this.
--
[Gaius enters physician's chambers where Alice is waiting]
Alice: What's going on?
Gaius: The King has been poisoned. It appears that someone has tampered with his
medicine.
Alice: But surely you don't think it was me?
Gaius: Don't lie to me, Alice. Please.
Alice: Gaius, I, I...
[her eyes go black]
Gaius: Alice.
[Arthur enters the room with two guards]
Arthur: You're under arrest for high treason. Take her away.
[guards take her away and Arthur leaves. Merlin walks in]
Merlin: I had no choice. It was either her or you, Gaius.
Gaius: It wasn't your choice to make.
--
[Arthur questioning Alice in the dungeons]
Arthur: Do you admit to using magic?
Alice: Yes.
Arthur: Admit to poisoning the King?
Alice: Yes, yes, but it forced me to do it. It, it made me.
Arthur: Who forced you?
Alice: The creature. The creature.
Arthur: You're lying! There's no creature. You're just trying to save your own
skin.
Alice: No, no.
Arthur: Please, my father is dying. If you have a single shred of goodness within
you, you will tell me how to cure him.
Alice: I don't know.
[Arthur angrily hits the cell doors]
Alice: I don't know! I'm so sorry. The manticore...
[Merlin sees her eyes turn black]
--
[Merlin goes to Gaius in Uther's chambers]
Merlin: How is he?
Gaius: He's fading. He won't last the day.
Merlin: Gaius...
Gaius: It's alright, Merlin. I understand. You were only trying to save me from
harm. Thank you. But I don't believe Alice wanted this.
Merlin: I know she didn't. The poison is from the manticore, the creature that was
in Alice's room.
Gaius: We cannot counteract the manticore's venom. It's too deadly, by far.
Merlin: So what can we do?
Gaius: We can kill the manticore. The poison is imbued with its magic. With the
manticore dead, it will lose its potency.
Merlin: How do I kill it?
Gaius: You can't. You don't have the power. It's a creature of the Old Religion.
But maybe there's another way, if I can remember. Here. The manticore cannot live
in this world long. It's life source is a ancient evil that exists in the spirit
world.
Merlin: So if we can trap it in this world...
Gaius: Exactly. If we were to summon the creature and you kept it at bay long
enough, perhaps I could break the box.
Merlin: The gateway.
Gaius: If the gateway is destroyed, then the creature's connection with its life
source will be destroyed with it.
Merlin: And the manticore will die?
Gaius: I believe so.
Merlin: Gaius, the box is enchanted. It would need magic to destroy it.
Gaius: I am aware of that.
Merlin: Do you think you can? Command such magic?
Gaius: There was a time when I could. Let us hope I haven't forgotten.
[they approach the box]
Gaius: Are you ready?
Merlin: What if this doesn't work?
Gaius: Then we're going to have a very angry manticore on our hands.
Merlin: *spell*
[manticore comes out and attacks Merlin]
Merlin: Gaius!
Gaius: *spell* *retry*
Merlin: Gaius! Gaius, it's now or never!
Gaius: *retry*
[box explodes. manticore leaps at Gaius]
Merlin: Gaius!
[manticore fries]
Merlin: Not too bad for a has-been.
Gaius: Not too bad yourself.
--
Uther: I am fortunate, indeed, that you found an antidote, Gaius.
Gaius: It will take time, My Lord, but you will make a full recovery.
Uther: What of the woman?
Arthur: We have her in the cells, Sire. She awaits your judgment.
Uther: She won't have to wait long. She's sentenced to death. We'll execute her in
the morning.
Arthur: Yes, Father.
Gaius: Sire, if I may.
Uther: Yes, Gaius.
Gaius: It seems this woman was in the thrall of some kind of creature. Perhaps, in
the light of that, her sentence might be...
Uther: She practiced magic, Gaius. There are no circumstances under which that is
acceptable. Her judgment stands.
[Gaius and Merlin bow and exit]
--
[Gaius sits with Alice in her cell]
Gaius: I'm sorry, Alice. There was nothing I could do.
Alice: Don't. I knew what my sentence would be. Uther will never change.
Gaius: No.
Alice: I hoped that I could learn from it .That, that I could harness its magic for
the good, for healing, but it was too strong for me.
Gaius: At least you are rid of it now.
Alice: Yes. And it's far better to die free than to live as a slave.
Gaius: I can only hope that's true.
Alice: Gaius, before I go, I want you to know something. I never forgot you. Since
we parted all those years ago, not a day has gone by when I have not thought of
you.
Gaius: I fear I abandoned you, Alice.
Alice: No.
Gaius: I left you all alone.
Alice: You stayed behind to protect me. I know that. You saved my life. And there's
no greater gift that I could've hoped for. And you've achieved great things here in
Camelot, whereas...I...
Gaius: Alice.
Alice: I've disgraced myself. After everything I've done, you would have every
right to hate me.
Gaius: Hate you? I could never hate you. I've treasured these past days. I love
you, Alice. I love you, and I always will.
Alice: As I will you, Gaius. I don't...I don't want to leave you, my love.
[she cries in his arms]
Gaius: Don't be afraid. Please.
--
[Gaius putting Sorcerer's Chimes into a box in physician's chambers. warning bells
sound]
Merlin: Something's happened.
Gaius: Perhaps one of the prisoners has escaped.
Merlin: How is that possible? I wonder. The dungeons are so secure.
Gaius: I really couldn't say.
Merlin: You could've gone with her.
Gaius: I could've done. But then, who'd look after you?
Merlin: Me? *lol*I don't need looking after. I can fend for myself.
Gaius: Ah. Well, in that case, you won't be wanting any of this, then.
[Gaius unveils a hunk of meat]
Merlin: Well, maybe just a slice.
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December 6 2010, 18:31
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BBC Merlin: 3x10 Queen of Hearts
KILGHARRAH
--
[The doors open to reveal Gwen dressed in a rich, purple and gold gown, walking
down the aisle between the knights and courtiers of Camelot. Gwen kneels on the
dais before King Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
By the sacred laws vested in me, I pronounce you Guinevere, Queen of Camelot.
[Arthur crowns her, takes her hand and they each sit on a throne.]
--
[Morgana wakes and looks at her healing bracelet. She goes to the window.]
GWEN
Is everything alright, My Lady?
MORGANA
I'm fine. It's late. You should go to bed.
GWEN
Goodnight.
MORGANA
Goodnight, Gwen.
--
[02:32, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDORS - NIGHT]
[Morgana walks in the castle.]
MORGAUSE (echoing whisper)

Sister. Sister.
[A door opens near Morgana.]

Sister, this way.
[A torch lights.]

Sister.
[Morgana takes the torch.]

Sister. This way.
[Morgana enters a chamber and Morgause appears behind her.]
MORGAUSE
Hello, Sister.
[They hug.]
MORGANA
I can't tell you how good it is to see you.
MORGAUSE
I received your message. Tell me about these dreams that are so troubling to you.
MORGANA
They show a ceremony in Camelot. It's my serving girl, Gwen, she sits beside Arthur
on a throne. She's crowned queen. I see the same thing night after night.
MORGAUSE
There are some dreams that are so powerful your healing bracelet will not stop
them. It is a prophecy.
MORGANA
How can that be? She's a servant. Uther would never allow Arthur to marry her.
MORGAUSE
There are many futures, Sister. Some are shrouded in mist, and others are clear as
cut glass. But your gift is powerful, and this vision cannot be ignored. You cannot
allow this serving girl to take your rightful place upon the throne. Whatever
relationship exists between Arthur and Gwen, you must destroy it.
--
[Gwen arranges breakfast, while Morgana stares at her. Gwen looks up and gasps.]
GWEN
You startled me. You're up early this morning.
MORGANA
I...I couldn't sleep. I went for a walk.
GWEN
Did you want to change?
MORGANA
No. Have you spoken to Arthur recently?
GWEN
I saw him yesterday in the market.
MORGANA
It must be hard.
GWEN
What's that?
MORGANA
Hiding your feelings for him.
GWEN
I'm not sure what you mean.
MORGANA
I know how you feel about Arthur and how he feels about you. Do you deny it?
[Morgana takes Gwen's hand.]
MORGANA
It's such a shame you can't be more open about your feelings for each other.
[Gwen pulls her hand away.]
GWEN
If you'll excuse me, My Lady.
--
[05:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Gwen and Merlin serve the royal family breakfast.]
UTHER
What news from the northern borders?
ARTHUR
There've been a number of minor skirmishes.
[Arthur accidentally touches Gwen's hand when she reaches to pour his drink.
Morgana glares.]
UTHER
You think Odin is testing our defences?
[Arthur stares admiringly at Gwen.]
UTHER
Arthur, are you listening?
ARTHUR
What's that?
[Arthur reaches forward and accidentally knocks over his cup.]
UTHER
What on earth is wrong with you?
[Gwen rushes to clean it up. Merlin smiles. Morgana grimaces.]
ARTHUR
Nothing. Sorry.
--
[Arthur sits at the table, staring at parchment and twirling a feather pen. He
looks up when the door creaks open and Morgana peeks in.]
ARTHUR
Morgana.
MORGANA
Arthur, am I disturbing you?
ARTHUR
No. Come in. To what do I owe this pleasure?
MORGANA
Well, I was worried about you. You weren't yourself at dinner.
ARTHUR
Just a bit tired.
MORGANA
Really? I thought the reason you were so distracted had something to do with the
fact that Gwen was in the room.
ARTHUR
I have no idea what you're talking about.
MORGANA
Come on, Arthur. Why can't you admit you have feelings for her? A blind man could
see it.
ARTHUR
Is it really that obvious?
MORGANA
It's only so obvious to me because...I know Gwen also has feelings for you.
ARTHUR
Has she said something?
MORGANA
She speaks of you all the time.
ARTHUR
What did she say?
MORGANA
You're already arrogant enough. I will flatter you no further. Poor girl, I fear
she doesn't know what to do with herself when she's around you.
ARTHUR
She's not alone. I have such feelings for her, and yet I know nothing can ever come
of them.
MORGANA
If it's Gwen who you desire, why do you deny yourself?
ARTHUR
Because she's a servant. My father would have me marry for the good of the kingdom.
MORGANA
Uther knows nothing of love. You are the future king; you must set your own rules.
Besides, he doesn't have to find out. You should spend some time with Gwen. I know
she'd like that.
--
[Gwen drops firewood into a basket.]
GWEN
Arthur wishes to spend the day with me?
MERLIN
I thought you'd be happy.
GWEN
It isn't that simple. If anyone were to find out...What if someone sees us?
MERLIN
I'll take you to meet him outside the city. Arthur's willing to take the risk...if
you are.
[Gwen ponders, unsure.]
MERLIN
Should I tell him you won't meet him?
GWEN
No.
[Merlin puts his hands on Gwen shoulders, amused by her vacillating.]
MERLIN
You forget, he's Prince Arthur, and that he can be a spoiled, arrogant brat.
GWEN (laughs)
Merlin.
MERLIN (laughs)
Sorry.
[Gwen continues her dilemma.]
MERLIN
You like him.
GWEN
Yes.
MERLIN
He likes you.
GWEN
Mm-hmm.
MERLIN
Isn't that all that really matters?
GWEN
I suppose it is.
[Merlin turns to exit.]
MERLIN
Then I will come back in the morning.
[Gwen follows him, still nervous. Merlin pauses at the door and gives her a "relax"
gesture. she smiles and half-twirls in anticipation.]
--
[Gwen folds down Morgana's bed.]
GWEN
Will there be anything else?
MORGANA
No, that'll be all.
[Gwen walks towards the door and spins back around.]
GWEN
I was hoping it might be possible to be relieved of my duties tomorrow.
MORGANA
Really? And why is that?
GWEN
I fear I'm sickening with a fever.
MORGANA
Of course.
GWEN
Thank you.
[Gwen smiles, curtsies, and leaves. Morgana smirks into her mirror.]
--
[Gwen looks herself over in the mirror. Merlin knocks and enters. Gwen comes out
from behind the curtain and Merlin stares at her.]
GWEN
What?
MERLIN
You look lovely.
[Gwen sighs in relief.]
GWEN
Oh.
--
[09:41, EXT. PICNIC IN THE WOODS - DAY]
[Arthur gazes in a silver platter to fix his hair and eyebrows. Merlin and Gwen
approach from behind, giggling.]
MERLIN
Shh.
[Merlin cups his hands around his mouth.]
MERLIN
Caw! Caw!
[Arthur drops the platter as he turns around. Gwen and Merlin walk to the stream
that separates them from Arthur.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere, you look...
[Arthur stares at her, speechless.]
MERLIN
I think he's trying to say you look nice.
[Gwen chuckles.]
ARTHUR
Thank you, Merlin. That'll be all.
MERLIN
Have fun.
[Merlin leaves. Gwen crosses the stream on stepping stones. Arthur takes her hand
as she nears and helps her over. Morgana watches them from a distance, smirks, and
rides off.]
--
[10:28, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Uther pours Morgana's drink at the dining table.]
MORGANA
It's such a beautiful day, I was wondering if you might join me for a ride.
UTHER
I have council matters to attend to.
MORGANA
It's just, I get to spend so little time with you these days. Time together is...so
precious to me.
UTHER
You're right. We don't spend enough time together. The council can wait.
[Morgana and Uther toast.]
--
[Gwen reaches to serve the plates. Arthur takes it from her.]
ARTHUR
You are not here as a servant.
[Arthur begins to fill her plate and Gwen sits down.]
GWEN
It feels different, doesn't it? Being away from Camelot?
ARTHUR
I love Camelot more than I can say, but when I'm there, sometimes I feel I can
hardly breathe
everyone expects so much of me. Being here with you? I can be myself.
GWEN
I like that, you being yourself.
ARTHUR
Sometimes I dream of leaving Camelot.
GWEN
Really? Where would you go?
ARTHUR
I don't know. Somewhere where nobody knew who I was. I'd get some land and become a
farmer.
[Gwen laughs.]
GWEN
I can hardly see you toiling away in the fields all day.
ARTHUR
Obviously I'd take Merlin with me; he can do all the hard work.
GWEN
I'm sure he'd love that.
[Arthur hands Gwen the plate.]
GWEN
Thank you.
--
[12:04, EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY]
[Morgana and Uther out for a ride.]
UTHER
I'm glad you persuaded me to come. We must do this again.
MORGANA
I'd like that very much. Come on, I'll race you.
--
[Gwen and Arthur recline on pillows.]
GWEN
We should be heading back to Camelot soon.
ARTHUR
We could stay a while longer. Don't know when we'll have the chance to do this
again.
GWEN
Perhaps when you become a farmer we can be together more often.
ARTHUR
That's just a dream. I fear I will never leave Camelot... Stay still.
GWEN
Is it bandits?
[Arthur reaches toward his sword, picks up a glove and grabs at something over
Gwen's head. She ducks under his arm and gasps.]
ARTHUR
A wasp.
[Arthur grins. Gwen lets out a puff of laughter and kisses Arthur.]
--
[A shot of horses' hooves. Arthur and Gwen are startled out of their make out
session when Morgana and Uther ride up. Gwen gasps.]
UTHER
Arthur!
--
[Arthur paces. Uther enters with a blank expression, then guffaws as he approaches
Arthur. Uther slaps Arthur on the shoulder. Perplexed, Arthur starts laughing too.]
ARTHUR
I thought you'd be furious.
UTHER
I was young once, I'm more than familiar with the temptations of serving girls.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry I kept it from you. I thought it for the best.
UTHER
No serious harm has been done. I can't allow it to continue, obviously.
ARTHUR
UTHER
You can never see this girl again.
ARTHUR
You just said that no harm had been done.
UTHER
You've had your fun, now it must come to an end.
ARTHUR
What does it matter that Guinevere's a servant?
UTHER
The survival of Camelot depends on forging an alliance through your marriage.
ARTHUR
But I can't marry someone who I don't have feelings for.
UTHER
Your first duty is to Camelot.
ARTHUR
I care about her...
UTHER
I cannot allow this. I forbid it.
ARTHUR
You can't forbid my feelings any more than I can. I won't deny them any longer, I
love her. I love Guinevere.
UTHER
You leave me no choice; she's banished from the city.
ARTHUR
You can't do that.
UTHER
She has three days to leave. To return is on pain of death.
ARTHUR
She has nowhere to go! Her, her life is in Camelot.
UTHER
You have caused this to happen, Arthur. My decision is final.
ARTHUR
Please, do not banish her. I give you my solemn word that I'll never see her again.
UTHER
You have made it clear to me that you cannot control your feelings for this girl.
ARTHUR
No! I...
[Arthur grabs Uther's arm, pauses when he sees Uther's expression, and lets go.]
UTHER
This is for your own good.
[Uther leaves.]
--
MERLIN
How did Uther know where to find you?
ARTHUR
I don't know. You were the only person who knew where we were.
MERLIN
I didn't (dramatic pause) tell him.
ARTHUR
Oh, maybe something you said (dramatic pause) gave it away.
MERLIN
I didn't say anything.
ARTHUR
You know Merlin, you couldn't keep a secret if your life depended on it!
MERLIN
You'd be surprised!
ARTHUR
What's that supposed to mean?
MERLIN
Nothing.
[Arthur backs off.]
MERLIN
ARTHUR
I don't know.
[Morgana enters.]
ARTHUR
Leave us, Merlin.
[Merlin and Morgana glare at each other on his way out.]

MORGANA
Arthur, I heard what happened. I can't tell you how sorry I am.
ARTHUR
It's all my fault.
MORGANA
You're not to blame.
ARTHUR
I-- I can't accept that I may never see her again.
MORGANA
Uther has banished her. Surely you have no choice.
ARTHUR
There are always choices.
MORGANA
What will you do?
ARTHUR
I'll leave with her.
MORGANA
You're leaving Camelot? You'd give up your rights to the throne!
ARTHUR
One day we will return to Camelot together, and Guinevere will take her place on
the throne beside me.
--
[Gwen packs for the move.]
GWEN
There is so much to do. I'll have to sell everything I can't take with me. And of
course I need to find a new maid for Morgana.
MERLIN
Gwen.
GWEN
Do you know anyone suitable?
MERLIN
Gwen, stop it. Where will you go?
[Gwen slumps onto her bed and shakes her head, holding back tears.]
GWEN
I don't know. I've spent my whole life in Camelot, it's all I know. Everything I
care about is here. I have nothing else.
MERLIN
I'll think of something.
[Gwen nods.]
MERLIN
I promise.
--
[Morgana places a poultice under Arthur's pillow.]
--
[18:10, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Uther sits at the table. Someone knocks on the door.]
UTHER
Enter.
[Morgana enters. Uther smiles.]
UTHER
Morgana.
MORGANA
I was concerned about you, My Lord. You weren't at dinner.
UTHER
Argh, I had no appetite.
MORGANA
You're worried about Arthur.
UTHER
I do not understand his feelings for this girl; she's a servant.
MORGANA
It is strange that...
UTHER
What?
MORGANA
Arthur tells me everything and he's never expressed any feelings for Gwen and
suddenly he's declaring his love for her.
UTHER
What are you saying, Morgana?
MORGANA
I'm sure there's an explanation.
UTHER
Speak your mind.
MORGANA You yourself have noticed Arthur's strange mood. It's almost as though
he's...been enchanted.
--
[Guards search the room while Arthur stands there, arms crossed. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
What's going on?
ARTHUR
My father has ordered my chambers to be searched.
MERLIN
What for?
[A guard empties a container full of metal utensils onto the table.]
ARTHUR
You think I have a girl hiding in there?!
[A guard finds the poultice under Arthur's pillow.]
ARTHUR
What's that?
--
[Gaius looks over the poultice.]
UTHER
Is it magical?
GAIUS
I believe so. These are the symbols of the Old Religion.
UTHER
Could it be used to cast an enchantment?
GAIUS
That would be one use of such a poultice.
UTHER
This enchantment, could it cause someone to fall in love?
GAIUS
It is entirely possible. May I ask where it was found?
[Uther takes the poultice.]
UTHER
It was discovered in Arthur's Chambers. Find Morgana's maid and bring her to me
immediately.
[Gaius looks at Morgana.]
--
[Arthur is packing when Merlin runs into the room.]
ARTHUR
What is it, Merlin?
MERLIN
I just saw some guards dragging Gwen into the palace.
[Arthur runs out of the room, followed by Merlin.]

--
[The guards drop Gwen to her knees in front of Uther. Uther holds poultice out in
front of her.]
UTHER
You recognise it?
GWEN
I've never seen it before in my life.
UTHER
Really? I believe you planted it in Arthur's Chambers to enchant him.
[Uther hands the poultice back to a guard.]
GWEN
That's not true.
UTHER
Why else would Arthur fall in love with someone like you?
GWEN
I don't expect someone like you to understand that.
[Uther slaps Gwen across the face with the back of his hand.]
MORGANA
My Lord! Gwen has always been a loyal and trusted servant!
UTHER
I have no doubt she's feigned loyalty while using her position to get close to my
son.
[The doors open and Arthur storms in.]
ARTHUR
What is the meaning of this?!
UTHER
This poultice was found under your pillow. Some kind of love charm. You are under
its spell.
ARTHUR
That's ridiculous.
UTHER
What would you know.
ARTHUR
Because I know how I feel. I'm not enchanted.
UTHER
So can you tell me how it came to be in your room?
[Gwen gasps in anxiety.]
ARTHUR
I don't know, but I don't believe Guinevere put it there.
UTHER
Until its spell is broken, I can't take anything you say as the truth. Her father
consorted with sorcerers.
GWEN
My father was a good and innocent man and you executed him!
UTHER
So you would seek your revenge by enchanting my son?!
GWEN
No!
GAIUS
My Lord, whatever this poultice is, I don't believe that Gwen is responsible for
magic.
UTHER
I don't care what you believe, Gaius. Arthur is under her spell. It's the only
rational explanation for his behaviour!
ARTHUR
Father, you have to see reason. Guinevere has done nothing wrong.
UTHER
She has been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. She will be burnt at the
stake.
ARTHUR
No.
[Arthur moves toward Uther.]
UTHER
Restrain him!
[Guards grab Arthur as he bolts forward.]
ARTHUR
You can't do this!
GAIUS
My Lord! At least give Gwen a fair trial!
UTHER
I have all the evidence I need.
ARTHUR
I'm begging you! W--we will leave Camelot and never return! Just-- just let us go!
I relinquish my entitlement to the throne!
[Morgana looks for Gwen's reaction. Gwen gasps in surprise.]
UTHER
My son would never do that. It is proof beyond doubt that you are enchanted.
ARTHUR
I will never forgive you for this.
UTHER
She will die. The enchantment will be broken. You'll see I was right. Take her
away.
[Uther leaves.]
ARTHUR
No! Guinevere!
[Arthur struggles to break free of the guards. Gwen begins to panic as guards pick
her up off the floor.]
GWEN
Arthur! No! Arthur, please...!
[The guards drag Gwen backwards toward the door.]
ARTHUR
No!
[Arthur breaks away from the guards. He runs to Gwen and grabs her from the guards.
Arthur kisses her until the other guards pull him away.]
ARTHUR
I will always love you!
[The guards continue to drag Gwen out backwards. Arthur struggles against the
guards in vain. Gwen spots Morgana smirking behind Arthur as she exits.]
--
[23:06, EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/DUNGEONS/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[A pyre is being built in the Square. Gwen watches it from the window of her cell.
Arthur watches it from the window in his chambers. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
We need to find a way to smuggle Gwen out of Camelot.
ARTHUR
My father has me under constant watch. There are guards outside, below in the
square. I can't watch her die, Merlin.
--
[23:47, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[Merlin brings a platter to Gwen's cell.]
MERLIN
I thought you might be hungry.
GWEN
I can't even think of eating. How is Arthur?
MERLIN
He wants me to let you know that he will do everything he can to convince Uther
that you're innocent. He won't stop until you're released.
GWEN
You and I both know that Uther will not change his mind. When I am gone, will you
take care of him for me, Merlin?
MERLIN
No, you can't give up hope. There is still time.
GWEN
To do what?
MERLIN
I need to find the person who really planted the poultice. Do you have any idea who
it might've been?
[Gwen gives Merlin a dark look.]
MERLIN
What is it?
[Gwen checks to see if guards are near and then faces Merlin.]
GWEN
After I was sentenced to death, I was being led out. I looked back. I swear,
Morgana was smiling. You probably think I'm mad.
MERLIN
No, I...
MERLIN
...don't doubt sh...
[A guard opens the cell door.]
GWEN
I can no longer trust her. I've started to wonder if it wasn't a coincidence that
Uther and Morgana found us in the woods.
[Merlin leaves and the guard locks the cell.]
--
GAIUS
Morgana? Uther'll never believe that Morgana's responsible.
MERLIN
Perhaps Arthur will talk him 'round.
GAIUS
Uther thinks Arthur's enchanted. Anything that Arthur does is going to strengthen
that belief. I fear that's not going to save Gwen.
MERLIN
If we can't expose the true sorcerer, then we must invent one.
GAIUS
Oh?
MERLIN
What if a sorcerer was caught planting an identical poultice in Arthur's Chambers?
Uther would've no choice but to release Gwen.
GAIUS
And do you know of a sorcerer who's stupid enough to get caught doing such a thing?
MERLIN
Me.
--
[Merlin pulls the magic book out from the floor boards under his bed.]
MERLIN
So, if I disguise myself, it won't matter if I'm caught. I can use magic to escape,
and then just change back into myself. They'll think that the sorcerer has just
vanished into thin air.
GAIUS
Well, no matter how you disguise yourself, I fear Arthur will recognise you.
MERLIN
Not if I'm eighty years old.
GAIUS
An aging spell? Merlin, aging spells are notoriously difficult and unpredictable.
If the spell doesn't hold, you'll be exposed.
MERLIN
If I don't do something, Gwen's going to die, and I'm not going to let that happen.
Can you make a poultice identical to the one found in Arthur's Chambers?
GAIUS
Well, I believe so.
MERLIN
Okay.
[Merlin begins grinding magic dust.]
MERLIN
Miht dagan, beþecce me. Adeadaþ þisne gast min freondum ond min feondum.
[Merlin speaks an incantation and sets the dust on fire.]
--
[Gaius finishes tying a poultice. His jaw drops at the sight of Old Merlin exiting
his chamber. Old Merlin makes grunting noises.]
OLD MERLIN
You know me better than anyone, Gaius. Do you recognise me?
GAIUS
There's something of you in the eyes. But perhaps that's just because I know it's
you.
OLD MERLIN
I can't believe that one day I will actually look like this. Ooh. I ache, all over.
GAIUS
Ah. Well, now you know how I feel.
[Gaius hands Merlin the poultice.]
GAIUS
You'll be needing this.
--
[28:00, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Old Merlin walks to Arthur's Chambers with a staff. He peeks around corner and
sees Arthur giving instructions to a pair of guards. Old Merlin allows Arthur to
spot him entering the chamber. He goes to Arthur's bed and waits. Arthur creeps
into the room, sword drawn. Old Merlin babbles a fake spell. Arthur puts his sword
at Old Merlin's back.]
ARTHUR
Show yourself. Who are you?
OLD MERLIN
I am...
[Old Merlin spins around.]
OLD MERLIN
Dragoon! The Great!
ARTHUR
Is it you who planted the poultice in my bed?
OLD MERLIN
You have caught me red-handed. I have no choice but to confess.
[Arthur puts him back at sword point.]
ARTHUR
An innocent girl almost died because of your actions.
OLD MERLIN
I suppose your father will have to release her now that you've caught me.
ARTHUR
I should run you through where you stand.
OLD MERLIN
I really wouldn't do that if I were you! Because if you do that...!
[Arthur looks puzzled at old!Merlin.]
OLD MERLIN
You will never learn of my plan.
ARTHUR
What plan?
OLD MERLIN
Exactly! That's why you can't run me through!
[Arthur lowers the sword.]
ARTHUR
Have we met?
[They look each other over.]
OLD MERLIN
No, I don't believe so. I never forget a face.
ARTHUR
Your eyes. We've met somewhere before.
OLD MERLIN
Me? No!
[Old Merlin looks for a heavy object.]
OLD MERLIN
Flíeh grima!
[Merlin's spell knocks Arthur out with a helmet and he flees the scene. Arthur
recovers.]
ARTHUR
Guards!
[Merlin avoids the guards in the corridors.]
OLD MERLIN
Edniwe min geoguð!
[Merlin is unable to undo the aging spell.]
ARTHUR
He went this way!
[Old Merlin runs and hides behind another wall.]
OLD MERLIN
Edniwe min geoguð!
[Merlin still can't undo the aging spell. Merlin peeks around the corner at
Arthur.]
ARTHUR
There he is!
[Old Merlin tries to run, but Arthur throws dagger that pins Merlin's sleeve to the
door.]
ARTHUR
Seize him.
[The guards grab Old Merlin.]
--
[Uther goes over documents with council members.]
ARTHUR
Father.
UTHER
Arthur.
[Guards escort Old Merlin into the chamber.]
UTHER
Who is this?
ARTHUR
He is the sorcerer.
[Arthur hands Uther the poultice Gaius made.]
ARTHUR
I found him placing this under my pillow.
UTHER
Is this true?
OLD MERLIN
Yes.
[Morgana is confused.]
ARTHUR
What did you hope to achieve with this enchantment?
OLD MERLIN
If Arthur were to fall in love with a lowly serving girl, it would bring shame on
Camelot.
UTHER
Have I wronged you in some way, old man?
OLD MERLIN
You have wronged so many people in so many ways. You're blinded by your hatred of
magic. You have tortured and executed innocent people. You, Uther Pendragon, are a
stupid, arrogant old tyrant!
ARTHUR
You will hold your tongue!
OLD MERLIN
And you. Oh, I have heard how you...mistreat your servants! They do everything for
you, but do they ever get any thanks? No! You're a spoilt arrogant brat...!
[Gaius rolls his eyes.]
OLD MERLIN
...with the brains of a donkey and the face (Hic) (Cough) of a toad.
[Guards pull Old Merlin away from Arthur.]
UTHER
This serving girl. She is your accomplice?
[Old Merlin shakes his head.]
OLD MERLIN
I enchanted her too. The girl is entirely innocent.
ARTHUR
My Lord, he has confessed.
[Morgana is still confused. Uther sulks and picks up the poultice.]
UTHER
Release the girl. Tomorrow at dawn you will take your place on the pyre. Take him
away.
[Arthur and guards escort Old Merlin to the dungeons. Morgana and Gaius follow to
watch them in the Phoenix Corridor.]
MORGANA
Do you know that man, Gaius?
GAIUS
I've never seen him before. Is there something troubling you, Morgana? I would've
thought you'd be relieved that the true culprit's been found.
MORGANA
Of course I am.
--
[33:16, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[The guards shove Old Merlin into a cell. Merlin looks out at the pyre in the
Square.]
--
[33:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Gaius walks down a corridor.]
ARTHUR
Gaius? Have you seen Merlin, I can't find him anywhere.
GAIUS
I-- I think he said he was going to spend the day in the tavern.
ARTHUR
Oh, did he? Well, we'll see about that.
--
[33:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - NIGHT]
[Gaius visits Old Merlin's cell.]
GAIUS (whispers)
Merlin! What happened?
[Merlin cries.]
OLD MERLIN
I can't break the spell, Gaius. It's too powerful.
GAIUS
You have to try again.
OLD MERLIN
I have tried, it's no good. I'm stuck like this.
GAIUS
Not for long. Uther will have you burnt at the stake.
OLD MERLIN
There must be another way to break the spell.
GAIUS
There's only one thing I can think of.
OLD MERLIN
What is it?
GAIUS
In the book of Gala there's an antidote that can undo such aging spells.
OLD MERLIN
How long will it take to make this antidote?
GAIUS
Longer than I fear you have. Buy as much time as you can.
OLD MERLIN
How do I do that?
GAIUS
Merlin, I've no idea.
--
[Gaius brews potion, trying to make it a certain colour.]
--
[35:31, EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/DUNGEONS - DAY]
[A crowd is gathered around the pyre in the morning. Merlin waits in his cell.
Arthur enters with guards.]
ARTHUR
It's time.
OLD MERLIN
Wait!
ARTHUR
What is it?
OLD MERLIN
There are other crimes I wish to confess.
ARTHUR
What difference does it make? You're about to be burnt at the stake. We can't
execute you twice.
--
[Gaius finishes anti-aging potion.]
--
[Gaius sees Old Merlin being escorted to the square.]
--
[Merlin is escorted towards the pyre, accompanied by a drum roll.]
UTHER
You have been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. In accordance with our
law, you will be burned at the stake. Let this serve as a lesson to all those who
seek to destroy Camelot.
[Old Merlin sees Gaius weave through the crowd show him the antidote bottle. Merlin
turns at lunges at Gaius.]
OLD MERLIN
A curse upon you all!
[Merlin grabs the bottle.]
OLD MERLIN
I will have my revenge!
[Guards pull Old Merlin towards the pyre.]
ARTHUR
Are you alright, Gaius?
GAIUS
I'm fine, Arthur.
OLD MERLIN
Intend lig, intend lig.
[The pyre bursts into huge flames. Everyone pulls back and Old Merlin pushes
through crowd.]
ARTHUR
After him!
--
[Old Merlin runs down the corridor, but can't get through the door at the end. He
drinks the antidote as Arthur and guards approach. Arthur turns the corner to find
young Merlin with the red robe tucked behind his back.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, where's the sorcerer?
MERLIN (gravelly voice)

He w...
[Merlin coughs and clears his throat.]
MERLIN
Erm...he went that way.
[Merlin points to the wall behind him. Arthur turns to the guards.]
ARTHUR
Sound the warning bell. Search the entire palace. I want him found. Are you telling
me you let him run straight past you?
MERLIN
He was-- he was-- he was too fast for me.
ARTHUR
He's a doddery old man. This is what happens when you spend all day in the tavern.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Perhaps mucking out my horses will help sober you up.
--
[Morgana enters while Gwen is gathering the dirty laundry.]
MORGANA
Gwen.
[Morgana gives Gwen a fake hug.]
MORGANA
I can't tell you how relieved I am that you've been pardoned.
[Gwen is suspicious.]
MORGANA
I begged Uther to release you, but he wouldn't listen to reason.
GWEN
I'm sure you did all you could.
[They both nod.]
GWEN
I...
[Gwen indicates the laundry basket and exits. Still confused, Morgana closes the
dividing door.]
--
[Gwen walks down an empty corridor with the laundry. Arthur pops out of an alcove
and pulls her into it. Gwen gasps.]
ARTHUR
Sorry. Didn't mean to startle you. Now, my father believes that my feelings for you
are a result of an enchantment. If he's to see any sign that that isn't the case,
then he'll banish you from Camelot.
GWEN
And are your feelings for me the result of an enchantment?
ARTHUR
Oh, we both know that's a lie. But...I think it would be safer for you if we let
others continue to believe it.
[Gwen nods.]
GWEN
What you said to your father...would you really have given up your place on the
throne for me?
ARTHUR
Still would.
[Gwen's jaw drops.]
GWEN
Your place is here in Camelot.
ARTHUR
My place is with you.
GWEN
This isn't just about us. You must stay for the sake of your people. You will be a
great king. And then you can change these ridiculous customs.
ARTHUR
I promise you that when I am King, things will be different. We can be together.
GWEN
I will count the days until then.
[Arthur and Gwen lean in to kiss. They hear a noise nearby and break apart.]
GWEN
I should go.
[Arthur watches Gwen leave as he steps back into hiding and a guard walks down the
corridor.]
--
[Merlin enters.]
GAIUS
Ah, Merlin. It's good to see you looking like your old self.
MERLIN
I'm covered in horse dung.
GAIUS
Precisely.
MERLIN
Arthur seems to think I spent the day in the tavern. I don't suppose you, er...you
know where he got that idea?
GAIUS
I really can't imagine. Oh, and Merlin? You might want to take a bath.
-----------------------------------------------
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December 6 2010, 18:32
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BBC Merlin: 3x11 The Sorcerer's Shadow
KILGHARRAH
--
[Gilli walking in the woods]
Nollar: Your mother know you're out here? What's your name, boy?
Gilli: Gilli
Tindr: What's in the bag?
Gilli: Nothing.
Nollar: Where you headed?
Gilli: Camelot. To fight in the tournament.
[they laugh]
Nollar: Is that what your pretty, new sword's for?
Gilli: Yeah.
Tindr: Let me see it.
[he takes the sword]
Nollar: You ever seen this tournament? Believe me, a little boy like you's got no
chance. Especially without a sword. (laughs)
Gilli: Give it back.
Nollar: I'm doing you a favour! One day you'll thank me!
Gilli: I said, give it back.
Nollar: I thought you were a fighter?! Well, here! I'll show you how to fight.
(spits) Good luck at the tournament.
[Nollar and Tindr leave laughing. Gilli pulls out a magic ring and his eyes glow]
--
[Merlin and Arthur walking through the courtyard to the training grounds]
Merlin: Did anyone think this tournament through? A contest open to all comers
worth the price of a hundred gold coins. Hmm. I wonder what kind of people are
going to turn up?
Arthur: It's tradition, Merlin. The tournament's been held every ten years for
centuries. Nothing to worry about.
[a contestant chops a training dummy's head off with an axe]
Merlin: Tell me he can't use that in the contest.
Arthur: He can use what he likes, it's an open tournament.
Merlin: What about the (tsk) Knight's Code?
Arthur: Counts for nothing. The only rule is: there are no rules.
[Nollar throws a hatchet into the target, just missing Merlin]
Merlin: Yeah, you're right. There's nothing to worry about.
--
[Gilli enters Camelot and goes to the inn]
Gilli: Excuse me? Hello?
Evoric: Drink?
Gilli: A room.
Evoric: I'm only taking competitors. Spectators have to stay outside the city
walls.
Gilli: But I am a competitor.
Evoric: Of course you are.
[Gilli pulls out a letter]
Gilli: Here.
[Evoric looks at it]
Gilli: I'd like a room, please.
[Evoric pulls out a key]
Evoric: You'll have to share.
Gilli: But...
Evoric: Do you want a bed or not? And I'll have my money now.
Gilli: Why?
Evoric: Because you'll be dead by sunset.
[Gilli goes to his room and puts the ring on]
--
[Merlin is fixing Arthur's armour in the armoury. Nollar and Tindr enter]
Nollar: Why, if it's not the Prince of Camelot.
Merlin: No, I'm his servant.
Nollar: I've always wanted a servant.
[stomps his boot on the bench next to Merlin
Nollar: Here. Clean them
Merlin: What?
Nollar: My boots. Hurry up.
[Merlin gets up and walks to the other side of the room. Nollar strikes him with
his whip]
Merlin: I'm looking for a cloth!
Nollar: I don't care if you use your tongue! Clean 'em!
Gilli: Stay where you are.
Nollar: Oh, so you've decided to join us after all.
Gilli: I think you should put that down, sir.
[Nollar and Tindr laugh]
Nollar: Did you hear that?
Tindr: Oh, I heard it alright.
Nollar: Why don't you say it again?
Merlin: I'm sorry, this is my fault.
Nollar: I'm not hearing you.
Gilli: I've said what I had to say.
[Nollar turns as he snaps his whip and Gilli uses magic to grab a sword and get the
whip. Nollar pulls a dagger]
Merlin: Watch out!
[Gilli whips the dagger out of Nollar's hand]
Gilli: Now, get out.
[they leave]
Gilli: Thanks for the warning.
Merlin: It's me who should be grateful.
Gilli: It's alright. I've already had a run in with those two.
Merlin: You have?
Gilli: Yeah, I know what it's like to be picked on.
Arthur: Merlin!
Merlin: Well, thanks again. I'm...
Arthur: Merlin?!
Merlin: ...Merlin. That's me.
Gilli: I'm Gilli.
[they shake hands. Merlin notices the ring]
Arthur: MERLIN!
Merlin: Ugh, I got to go.
--
[Merlin serving the Pendragons at dinner]
Morgana: Remind me how many times you've won this tournament, Uther.
Uther: Three.
Morgana: That's a lot to live up to, Arthur.
Arthur: Indeed.
Morgana: I remember your last victory. You were a master in the arena. It's such a
shame we won't see you compete again.
Uther: Who says you won't?
Morgana: I thought you said you were too old to take the field?
Uther: Not age that stops me. I'll still prove a match for any man.
Arthur: Well, we won't be finding out.
Uther: Why ever not?
Arthur: Because I don't want you getting hurt.
[Uther laughs]
Morgana: Do you think you could still win the crown?
Arthur: The kingdom needs him to rule, not to fight.
Uther: Do you think I can't do both?
Morgana: Well, you're not as young as you used to be. Besides, I need someone to
keep me company in the stands.
Arthur: If you'll excuse me, I need to prepare for the tournament. Merlin?
[Merlin puts down the pitcher and follows him out]
Morgana: It is such a shame. It would've been good for the people to see you
compete one last time. But still, Arthur's probably right. You can't do everything.
--
[crowds gathering at the tournament grounds. Arthur putting his armour on in his
chambers]
Merlin: How're you feeling?
Arthur: Confident.
Merlin: You sure?
Arthur: Yes.
Merlin: 'Cause last time this tournament was held, [whisper] three men died.
Arthur: Really?
Merlin: That was just on the first day.
Arthur: Thanks for that, Merlin.
Merlin: And on that second day...
Arthur: Let's just...get through the first.
Merlin: You're right. 'Cause that's when most people die.
Arthur: Merlin.
Merlin: Yes.
Arthur: Shut up.
--
[contenders waiting in the arena]
Morgana: It is my pleasure to welcome you all to Camelot. This is a contest like no
other. It is open to all comers. Including out reigning champion, the King. There
are no rules, no weapons are banned. The last man standing takes the prize. Let the
tournament begin.
--
[Gilli gets injured, but wins his match. Merlin sees the magic, but no one else
does ]
Gaius: Well, who'd've believed it.
[Gaius and Merlin approach Gilli]
Gaius: That was a fine victory.
Gilli: Thank you.
Gaius: That'll need treating.
Gilli: That's alright.
Merlin: Gaius is the court physician.
Gilli: It's just a nick, I'm fine.
[Gilli leaves]
Merlin: He's using magic.
Gaius: I suspected as much. The ring bears a mark of the Old Religion. Such rings
are very rare, but they act as a conduit, a...a channel for magical powers.
Merlin: So he does have magic like me?
Gaius: He doesn't have your powers, Merlin, but as to wield a ring such as that
would need considerable gifts.
Merlin: Well, he's braver than me, using magic in front of all those people.
Gaius: Brave or stupid. If Uther finds out, he'll have him killed.
--
[Gilli heals his wound with the ring in a corridor]
Gilli: Þurhhæle licsar min.
Guard: Hey!
[two guards come after him, but he escapes, losing the ring on the floor]
--
[Uther looks at the burn mark made in the door where Gilli cauterised his wound]
Uther: Sorcery. It's the only explanation.
Gaius: You mustn't jump to conclusions, Sire.
Uther: What other explanation could there be? The guards report seeing a, an
unnaturally bright light, its heat so intense they could feel it at the end of the
corridor. These scorch marks would seem to support their story.
Gaius: But they appear to have been there for some time. Did the guards get a good
look at this man?
Uther: No, it was too dark.
Gaius: Unfortunate. I can see no evidence of magic.
Uther: There's a strange odour. How do you explain that?
Gaius: Well, it's coming from the grain store there. It's a alecost for the tavern.
They use it in their brewing.
Uther: Brewing?
Gaius: Indeed, Sire. It imparts a special flavour.
Uther: Very well.
--
[Gaius and Merlin enter the Physician's Chambers]
Gaius: It's clearly Gilli, judging by the scorch marks and the odour. There's an
old healing spell. It's crude, but it works. You heat the skin to coagulate the
blood and it cauterises the wound.
Merlin: His shoulder? Well, no wonder he didn't want any treatment.
Gaius: You'll have to talk to him before it's too late.
[Merlin knocks on the door to Gilli's room in The Rising Sun]
Gilli: Who is it?
[Merlin steps in]
Merlin: Merlin. Come to see how you are.
Gilli: It's a lot better.
Merlin: Can I have a look?
Gilli: There's nothing to see.
Merlin: The way you fought earlier, that was incredible.
Gilli: Yeah?
Merlin: For someone your size to be able to beat a man like that. I'm sure a lot of
people are going to think you're using magic. I'm not going to tell anyone.
Gilli: I'm not using magic.
[Merlin holds up Gilli's ring]
Merlin: You don't have to fear me. It bears the mark of the Old Religion. Where did
you get it from?
Gilli: My father. He left it me.
Merlin: Did he have the same powers as you?
Gilli: He was a gifted man, but he would not touch magic. He vowed never to use it.
He feared it, wouldn't even let me talk about it.
Merlin: Why?
Gilli: He was scared Uther would find out, that the King would discover he was a
sorcerer. Even when he was attacked, he had three men on him, he still wouldn't use
this.
Merlin: Is that how he died?
Gilli: I'm not going to be like him.
Merlin: Because you want to be proud of who you are?
Gilli: Why all these questions?
Merlin: You remind me of someone I know.
Gilli: Who?
Merlin: You saved my life, and I'm trying to save yours. You need to withdraw from
the tournament.
Gilli: It's an open competition. You're supposed to be able to use whatever skills
you have.
Merlin: Fighting skills, and you're not a swordsman, or a gladiator. Fighting is
not your talent. Magic is.
Gilli: Then why can't I use it?
Merlin: Because it's banned.
Gilli: Without magic, I'm a nobody. People think they can kick dirt in my face.
Merlin: You're not a nobody! You're special.
Gilli: Then let me prove that.
Merlin: If you continue to use magic here, you will be caught. Uther will have you
executed.
[two other men enter the room and Gilli walks away from Merlin]
--
[tournament. Uther and Arthur win their bouts. They meet in the Pendragon tent with
Morgana]
Uther: Have you seen who you are to face in the semi-final tomorrow? Ha. Might need
to put in some practice.
Morgana: Well, the crowds are really looking forward to it. So am I. It should be
quite a match.
[Arthur walks out, unhappy]
--
[Nollar and Tindr approach Gilli]
Nollar: Seems like you're my next opponent.
Gilli: Excuse me.
[Nollar stops him]
Gilli: Can you let me pass, please?
Nollar: No. 'Cause I want you to help me decide which of these I'm going to kill
you with. (laughs)
[Gilli enters the arena, salutes the crowd. Nollar runs in to attack him. Nollar
gets him pressed against the stands where Tindr grabs him from behind and holds
him]
Tindr: Hello again.
[Gilli uses magic to throw Nollar, then escapes Tindr and kills Nollar]
--
[Gilli sits in the armoury alone. Merlin approaches him]
Gilli: I've never killed a man before. I just wanted to feel...what it was like to
be...respected.
[Merlin sits next to him]
Gilli: But this...I'm not a killer. This isn't me.
Merlin: You need to withdraw.
Gilli: I'm going to.
--
[Gilli enters the tavern]
Tavern Man: There he is!
[tavern cheers. Evoric hands Gilli a drink]
Evoric: Drinks are on the house.
[tavern cheers]
Tavern man: Hey Gilli! That's my boy!
Tavern man: Three cheers for Gilli!
Tavern: Hip hip hooray! Hip hip hooray! Hip hip hooray!
--
[Arthur sulks in his chamber while Merlin sharpens his sword]
Arthur: What do I do, Merlin? If I fight my father tomorrow the way I can, I'll
show him up. I'll humiliate him in front of his people. Or worse, I could wound
him, even kill him.
Merlin: He's not going to back down. He's...determined to prove himself. You have
to let him win.
Arthur: (sigh) You don't have to put up with the gloating. Do you have any idea
what it's like to live with a man who constantly thinks he's the best?
Merlin: Mmm. Must be irritating.
--
[Arthur waits for Uther to arrive in the arena. trumpets announce the King's
entrance]
Arthur: Good luck.
Uther: And you. You'll need it.
Arthur: Don't be so sure, Father.
Uther: When I was your age, I conquered Camelot. I didn't inherit this kingdom, I
won it. One day you'll be strong enough to take my crown, but not yet.
[they put on their helmets]
Uther: Ready?
Arthur: Ready.
[Arthur takes his shield, Uther strikes, Arthur parries a little late]
Uther: I thought you said you were ready?
[they fight]
Arthur: Need a breather, Father?
[they fight again and Arthur pushes Uther to the ground]
Arthur: Footwork. Always was your weakness.
[Uther swings frantically at Arthur as he gets up. He turns around and staggers,
shakes off his shield and helmet. Arthur pauses, then removes his helmet. they
fight, Uther sweating and panting heavily, Arthur ducks under Uther's swing easily,
then allows Uther to disarm him; Arthur falls to the ground. Uther smiles and
offers Arthur his hand to help him up. Crowd cheers. Merlin meets Arthur on his way
out of the arena]
Merlin: Well done. It can't been easy.
Arthur: If he wasn't my father...
[walks off unhappily]
Gaius: The King's through to the final. You need to worry about who he might be
facing next.
[Gilli's back in the arena and uses magic to win again]
Gaius: I thought you said the boy was going to withdraw?
Merlin: That's what I thought.
Gaius: We'll have to warn the King.
Merlin: No.
Gaius: Why are you protecting him?
Merlin: You know what Uther will do.
Gaius: Gilli is using magic for his own gain. It's corrupting him, poisoning him.
Merlin: Just let me talk to him.
Gaius: I fear it's too late.
Merlin: Gaius, please. You taught me what magic was for. You gave me the
opportunity to be the person that I am today. I've had you to help me. Give me one
more chance to talk to him.
Gaius: We'll have to put an end to this. If he fights tomorrow, either his magic
will be found out, or worse...the King will die.
[Merlin goes to the tavern]
Gilli: Now, a lot of people have asked me, "How did he fall on his back?" I just
tripped him like that. I mean, I'm strong, you don't realise it.
[Gilli and Merlin enter Gilli's guest room]
Gilli: What's this about?
Merlin: Your opponent. I thought you might like to know he is.
Gilli: Is he alright?
Merlin: Gaius thinks he'll pull through, but...he might not have been so lucky.
Gilli: It could've been me that got injured.
Merlin: I thought you weren't going to fight?!
Gilli: You've seen the way people are now. They're showing me respect. And you
don't know what that's like for me.
Merlin: I do.
Gilli: No. No, no one does.
[Merlin pauses, then closes the door, and whispers a spell into his hand.]
Merlin: (whisper) Forbærnen.
[Merlin approaches Gilli with his clenched fist and opens it to reveal a mini
flame]
Merlin: It's...lonely. To...be more powerful than any man you know and have to live
like a shadow. To...be special and, and have to pretend you're a fool. I know how
it feels, I understand.
Gilli: Then you understand why I have to fight. If Uther is killed, so what? How
many of our kind have dies at his hands? How many more will? It's time those with
magic fought back!
Merlin: Gilli.
Gilli: You can't tell me what to do!
Merlin: You need to learn to use your magic for good! That is its true purpose!
It's not meant for your own vanity!
Gilli: I'm not going to apologise for who I am! You can be a servant and, and
pretend you're less than them, but I'm not going to...
Merlin: No, that's not what I do!
Gilli: No? You're defending the King! Protecting a man that would have you dead!
Merlin: I'm protecting you!
Gilli: You've been pretending for so long now that you've actually forgotten who
you are.
Merlin: That's not true.
Gilli: Isn't it?
Merlin: No.
Gilli: It's time someone struck a blow for the likes of you and me. And if you're
too weak, then I will.
[Gilli leaves]
--
[Merlin lies awake at night. He gets up and goes to the clearing near Camelot]
Merlin: Ω δρακον, έάω μαλερός σοφόνους φθέγγομαι τείδε άναδικέω! *more dragonspeak*
Kilgharrah: I was beginning to hope you'd forgotten me.
Merlin: I don't think so.
Kilgharrah: The problem is, young warlock, that you wish to talk, but you don't
wish to listen. The last time we met, you chose to ignore my advice and overrule
me.
Merlin: I, I'm sorry.
Kilgharrah: A dragonlord should never abuse their power. What reason do you have to
summon me this time?
Merlin: You are a creature of magic, and only a creature of magic could hope to
understand. Uther is to fight a young sorcerer in the tournament tomorrow. Gaius
wants me to prevent him from using magic, but if I do that, there is every chance
he will die.
Kilgharrah: Your choice is a hard one, young warlock. Yet you, like I, must hold
hope that Arthur will bring about a new age. An age where the likes of you and I
are respected once again. If he sees his father killed through the use of magic, it
will harden his mind forever.
Merlin: No. There, there must be some...other way.
Kilgharrah: To see one of your kin die is never an easy thing, but all great
struggles demand sacrifice. I am sorry, young warlock. I wish I had some words to
help you.
Merlin: Some choices are easy, some...stay with you forever.
[Kilgharrah sighs]
--
[Uther getting ready in his chambers the morning of the final. Arthur enters]
Arthur: I've come to wish you luck.
Uther: Against a boy?
Arthur: He's reached the final.
Uther: Arthur, even you could beat him.
--
[Gilli looks at Merlin before entering the arena. Merlin shakes his head to not do
it. Gilli raises his eye brows menacingly and enters with a smirk. Arthur watches
from the throne as Uther and Gilli face each other. Uther salutes Gilli]
Uther: For glory!
[Gillie salutes back]
Gilli: For glory.
[they begin to fight. Gilli uses magic and Merlin counteracts with magic - Gilli
exchanges looks with Merlin and attacks again. Gilli uses magic and Merlin
counteracts with magic again. Gilli realises Merlin's not going to let him hurt the
King. Uther wins. Gilli walks off the field sadly]
Merlin: I'm sorry.
[Gilli holds up his hand and keeps walking]
--
[Merlin enters the tavern guest room while Gilli's packing]
Merlin: I didn't have a choice.
Gilli: You did what you had to do. And you betrayed your kind.
Merlin: No, that was you. You betrayed us. You'd won, but you were going to kill
the King anyway? There's no honour in that. Come on, look inside yourself. You're
better than this. Magic is not meant for fighting. It's not meant to bring you
glory.
Gilli: I never understood my father. I thought that he was afraid of magic. But he
wasn't. He was afraid of what it can do, how it can corrupt. I know now that he
was, he was strong. Well, he was stronger than me. I'm sorry.
Merlin: Now, I know it doesn't seem like it now, but one day magic will be
permitted once again. And when that day arrives, you'll no longer have to hide who
are. Your gifts will be recognised. We , we will be free. And who knows, maybe,
maybe then our paths will cross again.
Gilli: I hope so.
Merlin: Oh, they will. We're kin.
Gilli: Kin?
[Gilli holds out his hand. Merlin shakes it. Merlin watches Gilli leave from the
battlements]
--
[servants set the table for the Pendragons. Arthur is already at the table, Uther
enters with Morgana on his arm]
Uther: I thought the boy was going to kill me.
Morgana: So did I.
Uther: Then, suddenly, the old fighting spirit kicked in. I dug deep, found my
strength, and the whole thing just began to flow. I felt at one with the sword.
[groans as he sits down]
Uther: My feet moved instinctively.
Morgana: And now you're champion once again. And maybe you can give Arthur some
lessons.
Uther: It is I who learned a great deal from our fight.
Morgana: I can't see what.
Uther: He's a far better warrior than you think. It is Arthur who should've claimed
the prize.
Morgana: But sadly he wasn't good enough.
Uther: Because he through the fight.
[Arthur chokes on his drink]
Uther: That I might save face.
Arthur: You knew?
Uther: I have followed your progress with a sword since you were a boy. I know your
abilities better than anyone. I am eternally grateful. I hope that, when you are
King and have sons of your own, that they will afford you the same honour. Indeed,
the most satisfying outcome of the tournament was that Arthur's actions have shown
me that he is now truly ready to be King.
[Uther raises his glass and the three toast]
Gaius: I'm proud of you.
Merlin: Oh, I don't deserve it.
Gaius: You're being hard on yourself. Alright.
[Gaius takes his plate]
Merlin: Er, wha-what are you doing?
Gaius: You said you didn't deserve it.
Merlin: Gaius, I haven't eaten.
Gaius: Pity. It's delicious.
Merlin: Gaius...
[Merlin tries to take the plate and Gaius slaps his hand]
Gaius: (laughs) Alright.
[Gaius takes Merlin's plate out of hiding]
Merlin: (laughs) Thanks
-----------------------------------------------
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December 6 2010, 18:32
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BBC Merlin: 3x12 The Coming of Arthur, Part 1
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, woods in Cenred's kingdom. Knight of Camelot lie dead, including Sir Leon]
--
[00:34, Council Chamber of Doom]
Uther: It was Cenred who did this, you're certain of it?
Arthur: Yes, My Lord. His messenger has only this minute departed Camelot. Cenred
said that the patrol trespassed on his land and an example had to be made.
Uther: How many dead?
Arthur: All of them, Sire. Every last man.
Uther: The knights?
Arthur: All lost. Edric, Oldof, Osric, and Sir Leon.
--
[01:17, woods in Cenred's kingdom]
Druid: Here!
[The druids pick up Sir Leon]
Iseldir: Quick! Help me. We do not have much time. Ready?
--
[01:48, Druid cave. The druids lay Sir Leon down on a blanket]
Iseldir: His spirit leaves him. We must hurry.
Druids (chanting): Buthed gwared, hrag pob ailed, hrag pob evnis boyd un thilis.
Buthed gwared, hrag pob ailed, hrag pob evnis boyd un thilis. Buthed gwared, hrag
pob ailed, hrag pob evnis boyd un thilis. Buthed gwared...
Iseldir: Welcome back.
--
Arthur: We thought you were dead for sure.
Leon: I was dead, or as good as, until the druids found me.
Uther: Druids?
Leon: Yes, My Lord. I owe them my life.
Uther: How did they heal you? You were as good as dead, you said.
Leon: I don't know.
Uther: Did they use magic?
Leon: Well, I...
Uther: Yes or no, it's a simple enough question.
Leon: I only know that I drank from some kind of cup, Sire.
Uther: Cup?
Leon: It was extraordinary, My Lord. I have known nothing like it. From the moment
it touched my lips, I could feel my life return to me.
Uther: Well, your trials have left you weary, I'm sure. We must let him rest.
--
[04:10, Sir Leon's chambers. Gaius examines Sir Leon]
Leon: Is that it?
Gaius: That's it. He's exhausted, Sire, and severely dehydrated, but given time
he'll make a full recovery.
Arthur: Thank you, Gaius.
--
[04:30, Phoenix corridor]
Uther: Well?
Gaius: It's remarkable, Sire. He bears no sign of any kind of wound. He's in
perfect health.
Uther: And the cup he spoke of?
Gaius: From his description, I would say it was the Cup of Life.
[Merlin looks at Gaius with surprise]
Uther: You are aware of its power, Gaius.
Gaius: I am, indeed, Sire. But the druids are a peaceful people. They would only
ever use the Cup for good. Sir Leon is surely proof of that.
Uther: Be that as it may, according to Sir Leon's description, the druids' cave
lies within Cenred's kingdom. It is imperative that we get to the Cup before he
does.
Gaius: My Lord, druids are secretive by nature. They will have the Cup well hidden.
Might it not be wise to leave it where it is?
Uther: I'm not prepared to take that risk.
--
Merlin: I thought the Cup was destroyed with Nimueh when I defeated her on the Isle
of the Blessed.
Gaius: The Cup cannot be destroyed. It's magic is eternal, unbound by time or
place.
Merlin: But why does Uther fear it so much?
Gaius: Because the Cup can be used for evil as well as good.
Merlin: I don't understand.
Gaius: Many centuries ago, it fell into the possession of a great warlord. One
night, he gathered his army before him. He took a drop of blood from each and every
man and collected it in the Cup. Such was the vessel's power that the soldiers were
made immortal where they stood.
Merlin: So they could not be killed.
Gaius: The carnage they wrought was beyond all imagining. The King's no fool. He
knows that the forces of the Old Religion are rising against him once more. Heaven
forbid that the Cup should fall into the hands of Morgause.
Merlin: Morgana.
Gaius: With Such a weapon at their disposal, Camelot would be all but lost.
--
[06:28, secluded corridor]
Arthur: You called for me, Father?
Uther: Cenred is our sworn enemy. We cannot risk him getting his hands on the Cup
of Life.
Arthur: I know, Father.
Uther: You must retrieve it. Your mission must remain secret; you can speak to no
one of this.
[Morgana listens in nearby]
Arthur: I will take only my most trusted men.
Uther: We've seen what happened to the last patrol that entered Cenred's land. You
must go alone. I'm sorry to place such a burden upon you, but there is no one else
I can trust.
Arthur: I understand, Father.
--
[07:09, Arthur's Chambers]
Arthur: You will be ready by sunrise, won't you Merlin?
Merlin: If I don't know where we're going, how do I know what to pack? Will it be
hot? Will it be cold? Will it be wet? Will it be dry?
Arthur: Don't be such a girl, Merlin. We're not going on holiday.
Merlin: Holiday? What's a holiday?
[Merlin begins to pack a red Camelot cape]
Arthur: Not that. Nothing bearing the crest of Camelot. We're going under cover.
Merlin: This is ridiculous. Are you going to tell me where we're going or not?
Arthur: Well, I can tell you it will be dangerous
Merlin: Great.
Arthur: And I can tell you we will be travelling through bandit infested lands.
Merlin: Terrific. Then where?
Arthur: I can't tell you that.
Merlin: You don't know where we're going.
Arthur: No, Merlin. I know where we're going. It's just, I can't tell you, that's
all.
Merlin: Right, 'cause if you do, you'll have to kill me, I suppose.
Arthur: Immediately and without hesitation.
Merlin: Great. It'll be a surprise. I love surprises. Who doesn't love a good
surprise?
--
[08:04, castle basement]
Morgause: What is it you wanted to tell me, Sister?
Morgana: Arthur rides at dawn. He's been sent to recover some kind of cup. The Cup
of Life, they called it?
Morgause: The Cup of Life? Are you sure?
Morgana: I heard every word.
Morgause: How long I have searched for it.
Morgana: Is it as powerful as they believe?
Morgause: Oh, yes. Trust me, Sister, with the Cup in our possession, Camelot would
soon be at our mercy. Where is the Cup now?
Morgana: It's in the hands of the druids. All I know is that their camp lies within
Cenred's kingdom.
Morgause: Then perhaps Cenred will be of use to us again. He has spies everywhere.
If he can have Arthur followed...
Morgana: Then Arthur will lead us all the way to the Cup itself.
--
[09:11, Morgana's Chambers. Morgana watches Merlin and Arthur ride out of the
Square]
--
[09:19, Merlin and Arthur ride through the woods. Spies watch them and ride to
Cenred's castle]
--
[09:40, Cenred's throne room]
Morgause: Which way was the Prince heading?
Rider: For the Forest of Essetir, My Lady.
Cenred: Send word to the scouts in the area; they must be prepared.
Rider: Yes, Sire.
Morgause: Can your scouts be relied upon?
Cenred: Of course. I handpicked them myself.
Morgause: Why does that not reassure me?
Cenred: Do not concern yourself, My Lady. The Cup of Life will soon be in our
hands, and when it is, Camelot will be ours.
Morgause: You forget yourself, Cenred. It is Morgana that will take the throne, not
you or I.
Cenred: I make no claim upon the throne, only the spoils of victory.
Morgause: You will get what you deserve, Cenred. I can assure you of that.
--
[10:29, woods]
Merlin: We're going to Cenred's kingdom, aren't we?
Arthur: What makes you say that?
Merlin: Er, we're in the Forest of Essetir and we're not stopping.
Arthur: You can think what you like, Merlin.
Merlin: Oh, come on. You might as well tell me.
Arthur: Then I'd have to kill you, I told you that.
Merlin: Go ahead. I mean, I'm probably going to die anyway. Look at what happened
to the patrol that came here! Dead, the lot of them!
Arthur: Sir Leon survived.
Merlin: Right, so that gives me, what? A one in forty chance of making it?
Arthur: Rather less, actually. There are only two of us.
Merlin: So I'm not probably going to die, I'm definitely going to die.
Arthur: Always the pessimist, Merlin. Who knows, maybe, just this once, we'll have
no trouble.
[Arthur gets shot in the neck with a tranquiliser dart]
Merlin: Maybe you're right. If past experience is anything to go by.
[Merlin gets shot in the neck with a tranquiliser dart]
--
[11:13, old bell tower. Arthur and a crowd of men look down on Merlin. Arthur slaps
Merlin's face to wake him up]
Merlin: What was that you were saying about me being a pessimist?
Arthur: Must've slipped my mind.
[Arthur helps Merlin stand up. Gwaine comes up behind Arthur and puts a hand on
Arthur's shoulder. Arthur grabs Gwaine's arm without looking]
Arthur: Touch me again, you die.
Merlin: Gwaine?!
Gwaine: No manners you royals. Merlin, old friend, you look terrible.
Merlin: Likewise.
Arthur: What are you doing here?
Gwaine: Well, you know, wrong place, wrong time, wrong drink.
Arthur: Nothing's changed there, then.
Gwaine: That's just not fair.
Arthur: Where exactly are we?
Gwaine: The bell of an old castle. Belongs to a fellow names Jarl.
Arthur: Never heard of him.
Gwaine: Lovely bloke. Slave trader.
Merlin: We're going to be sold as slaves?
Jarl: Right, you filthy vermin. Which one of you's ready to face my champion in the
arena? No volunteers? Well, I shall have to choose one of you toe rags myself,
then. Let me see. How about you?
[Merlin looks around]
Merlin: Me?
Jarl: Death or glory, boy. You should be honoured.
Arthur: Who is this so-called champion? Can he crush nothing but weaklings like
this?
Jarl: You think you could offer a better contest?
Arthur: I guarantee it.
Merlin: Arthur, no.
Jarl: Very well. But if you lose, I'll feed your little friend to the crows piece
by stinking piece. Are you ready, my champion?
Gwaine: I am.
--
Morgause: How could you let this happen? You let Arthur slip through your fingers.
Cenred: He was taken before my men could get to him.
Morgause: Taken? By whom exactly?
Cenred: The slave trader, Jarl. He's been working our western border for months.
Morgause: And you let him?
Cenred: We have an understanding. He doesn't bother me, and I don't bother him.
Morgause: And where is this Jarl now?
Cenred: Don't worry, Morgause. I'll find him soon enough.
Morgause: See that you do.
Cenred: Are you threatening me?
Morgause: Trust me, Cenred, when I am threatening you, you'll know about it.
--
[13:39, Jarl's fortress. Cheering men push Gwaine and Arthur into the centre of the
crowd]
Jarl: Gentlemen, the rules are simple. One man lives and one man dies. If you
cannot or will not finish off your opponent, I'll kill you both.
[Jarl tosses swords at their feet]
Jarl: Let battle commence!
[Gwaine and Arthur fight]
Arthur: Take it easy, will you?
Gwaine: It's got to look real, hasn't it?
Arthur: Fine. If it's real you want...
[Arthur and Gwaine continue fighting. They pause, drop their swords and wrestle to
the ground]
Arthur: So far, so good.
Gwaine: What happens next?
Arthur: Er...there was no next.
Jarl: Finish him!
Merlin: Forbaern aeltaewlice.
[Fire spreads along the ropes above and the crowd scatters. Gwaine, Arthur, and
Merlin escape]
--
[15:39, Gwaine, Arthur, and Merlin stop in the woods]
Gwaine: Well, that's somewhere I'll not be in a hurry to see again.
Arthur: Best stay out of trouble, then.
Gwaine: I could say the same to you.
Merlin: You could do, but I wouldn't have any idea what you're talking about.
Gwaine: Oh, come on. You must have done something to end up in a hole like that.
Arthur: Actually, we're on a quest.
Merlin: We're looking for the Cup of Life.
[Arthur smacks the back of Merlin's head]
Merlin: Ow. What?!
Arthur: What part of the word "secret" did you not understand?
Merlin: It...Gwaine.
Gwaine: Gentlemen. Gentlemen. It seems whatever it is that you're after, you could
use a little help.
--
[16:27, the bell tower fortress]
Jarl: No one makes a fool of Jarl. No one. I want to know who they are and where
they're hiding!
Bandit: My Lord.
[The bandit brings Arthur's bag]
Jarl: What's that?
Bandit: It was confiscated from the prisoners, My Lord. It may hold some clues.
Jarl: I don't want clues. I want blood!
[Jarl empties the bag and finds nothing. He throws the bag to the floor and it
jingles. Jarl cuts open the inside and finds coins and a sealed note]
Jarl: Well, well, well. It seems we were entertaining royalty. *Muahahaha*
--
[17:27, woods]
Gwaine: So according to Merlin here, if you tell me where this Cup is, you have to
kill me.
Arthur: That's correct.
Gwaine: You may as well tell me, then. I mean, let's be honest, you couldn't kill
me even if you wanted to.
Arthur: Yeah? Try me.
Gwaine: I already did. Back in the arena. I had you banged to rights, did I not?
Arthur: That was just a game.
Gwaine: Oh, a game, right. I won that game, did I not?
Arthur: No, you didn't. One more minute...
Gwaine: Oh, you flatt...
Merlin: One more minute and you both would've been dead. Neither of you won. You're
plan was a half-baked disaster, and if it was not for that fire we would all be
pushing up daisies.
--
Cenred: You're certain it was Arthur?
Jarl: Oh, yes. It was the Prince, alright. Matched your description exactly. Had
his servant with him. Him and another man.
Morgause: And you have proof of this?
Cenred: Where were they headed?
Jarl: West to the Forest of Gedney. They've no horses. Their tracks told us as
much. You'll soon run 'em down.
Cenred: Excellent.
Jarl: Always glad to be of help to, er, people of qualities such as yourselves.
Perhaps some small compensation for my, er, time and trouble?
Morgause: Oh, my dear man, how remiss of me. You will have your reward this
instant.
[Morgause kills Jarl by throwing him into a wall with magic]
--
[19:00, outside the druid cave]
Merlin: Well, don't tell me. We're actually here.
Gwaine: Easy, Merlin. Wouldn't want to rile the Prince.
[Arthur, Gwaine, and Merlin enter the cave]
Arthur: It has to be here somewhere.
[Arthur sheaths his sword. He sees a cloth move and pulls a small druid boy out of
hiding]
Arthur: Where is it? Hmm? Where's the Cup? Tell me.
Merlin: Let him go, Arthur. He's just a boy.
Arthur: Where is it?
[Druids surround them]
Merlin: Arthur.
[Gwaine draws his sword]
Arthur: Stay out of this, Merlin.
Merlin: No, Arthur, really.
[Arthur looks up and pulls his sword on the boy]
Arthur: One step closer...
Iseldir: There is no need for violence, Arthur Pendragon. The boy has done you no
harm. Release him.
Arthur: Not without what I came for.
Iseldir: You seek the Cup of Life, do you not?
Arthur: I do.
[Iseldir pulls out the Cup]
Iseldir: It is yours. Please, now, the boy.
[Arthur lets the boy go and grabs the Cup, but Iseldir doesn't let go]
Iseldir: You mettle with a power you do not understand, Arthur Pendragon. By taking
the Cup of Life you risk more than you know.
Arthur: I'll take my chances, thanks. Let's go.
[Arthur, Gwaine, and Merlin turn to leave]
Iseldir (telepathy): Emrys.
[Merlin turns and looks at Iseldir]
Iseldir (telepathy): The Cup is in your care now. Guard it well. The future of this
land depends on it.
--
[21:45, woods]
Gwaine: Hard work this quest business.
Arthur: Trust me, it's a great deed we did here today.
Merlin: Are you sure the Cup wasn't safer with the druids?
Arthur: They can't be trusted, Merlin. No one can. The only safe place for the Cup
is the vaults of Camelot.
Merlin: Yeah, but we have to get it there first.
[Cenred watches them with his soldiers]
Cenred: Get the Cup. Then kill them.
Arthur: We're approaching the border of Cenred's lands. Beyond the forest lies
Camelot.
Gwaine: And food and water and a nice hot bath.
Arthur: Quiet. Listen.
Merlin: I don't hear anything.
Arthur: Exactly.
Gwaine: Never satisfied, you city types. It's too noisy, it's too quiet...
[Cenred's men jump out of hiding]
Arthur: Run!
[A soldier chasing Arthur shoots him in the leg with a crossbow. Arthur falls
unconscious. The soldier takes the Cup from Arthur's bag. Merlin uses magic to
knock the soldier back, but the Cup goes flying too and drops into the hands of
Cenred's men below]
Gwaine: Merlin?!
--
[23:28, night time in the woods. Gwaine and Merlin inspect Arthur's wound]
Gwaine: Right. That doesn't look too great.
Merlin: Arrow must've been poisoned. He's got a fever, we need to keep him warm.
Gwaine: I don't get it. Why all this bother over a cup?
[Merlin puts his jacket over Arthur]
Merlin: Because in the wrong hands it can become a terrible weapon.
Gwaine: Not so great Cenred's got it, then.
Merlin: It's worse than you can possibly imagine.
--
[23:56, Cenred's castle. Morgause and Cenred bring the Cup before his army]
Cenred: Loyal friends, our time is at hand. From today no sword will fell you, no
spear will stop you short. Your blood will not be spilled in vain, but in victory.
You march with the mightiest weapon of them all: immortality.
Morgause: *spell*
[Morgause cuts a soldier's hand and pours the blood into the Cup]
--
Uther: Arthur should be back by now.
Leon: I'm sure there's a simple explanation, Sire.
Uther: You know as well as I do he's been gone too long. Take a patrol, as many men
as you need. Whatever it takes, find him.
Leon: Yes, Sire.
[Leon leaves]
Morgana: You show great strength, My Lord.
Uther: What do you mean?
Morgana: Day after day you must send your only son into danger.
Uther: Not a responsibility any father would wish to bear.
Morgana: You must try not to worry. He's the First Knight of Camelot and your
greatest warrior. He's made it home safe in the past. Why should this time be any
different?
Uther: You're right. Of course you are.
--
[26:16, campsite]
Merlin: We need more firewood.
Gwaine: You're right about that.
Merlin: Do you want to go and get some?
Gwaine: Not really. Thanks for asking.
Merlin: There's wolves out there, bears, boars...
Gwaine: Exactly.
Merlin: I'm not a warrior, I can't defend myself like you.
Gwaine: Never too late to learn. Merlin, don't you know when someone's joking with
you?
[Merlin lets out a puff of laughter]
Gwaine: If I die collecting firewood, keep it to yourself. I got my reputation to
consider.
[Gwaine walks off. Merlin kneels over Arthur, who is shivering with a fever]
Merlin: Geh'ælan . Geh'ælan. Come on. Arthur, come on.
--
[27:41, Cenred's castle. Cenred and Morgause watch the immortal army depart]
Cenred: Magnificent, aren't they? My army of immortals.
Morgause: Your army?
Cenred: Well, they are my men.
Morgause: Correction: they were your men. It is I that made them immortal. They are
bound to me now.
Cenred: Do not think for one moment that you can cross me, My Lady.
Morgause: Cross you? Never. *spell*
[A soldier in the room lifts his sword]
Cenred: What are you doing?
Morgause: Have I not always been honest with you, Cenred?
[Cenred draws his sword]
Cenred: Stop. Stop, you answer to me not to her.
[Cenred runs the soldier through with a sword, but the man does not fall]
Cenred: Morgause. Morgause, make him stop. Make him stop!
[The soldier disarms Cenred and knocks him to the floor]
Morgause: Did I not say that, when I threatened you, you'd know about it?
[The soldier raises his sword]
Morgause: Well, now you know.
Cenred: Morgause, please...!
[The soldier runs Cenred through]
--
[28:54, Knights of Camelot see Morgause's army marching through a valley]
Leon: My God. Alright, come on.
[The knights run back on foot, but mounted soldiers come after them. Leon unhorses
a soldier, but the soldier doesn't die when Leon runs him through with a sword.
Leon flees]
--
[29:57, campsite. Arthur coughs awake]
Arthur: Where's the Cup?
[Merlin wakes. Gwaine wakes, batting his eyelashes]
Arthur: Where's the Cup?
Merlin: Cenred's men, they took it.
Arthur: Then what are we still doing here?!
Merlin: You were unconscious.
Arthur: Always an excuse, Merlin.
[Arthur tries to get up, but yells in pain. Merlin and Gwaine get up to help him]
Arthur: We have to get back to Camelot before it's too late
--
Uther: We must convene the Council of War.
Leon: They cannot be stopped. The soldiers, Sire, they will not fall.
Uther: What are you saying?
Leon: They will not die.
Uther: Gather the knights. Prepare whatever defences you can.
Leon: But Sire...
Uther: Do it!
[Morgana smirks. Leon bows and exits with court members. Uther turns to Gaius]
Uther: Cenred. It must be. How? The location of the Cup was secret.
Gaius: There's only one explanation, Sire. We have a traitor in our midst.
--
[31:17, Camelot's army prepares for war]
--
[31:43, Morgana's Chambers. Gwen shakes her head as she watches the gathering
immortal army. Morgana enters]
Morgana: Gwen?
Gwen: Is it true they attack at dawn?
Morgana: I'm afraid so.
Gwen: And no word from Arthur?
Morgana: Nothing.
Gwen: Then all is lost. We'll be massacred, every last one of us.
Morgana: Not everyone has to die.
Gwen: What do you mean not everyone?
Morgana: Those that defy them, those that choose to fight, they will surely die.
But those who do not resist, those that choose to welcome change, they will have a
future here. Everyone has a choice, Gwen.
Gwen: You know I have always been loyal to you, Morgana. And I always will be.
[Morgana smiles and takes her hands]
Morgana: Then have no fear. No harm will come to you, I promise you that.
[Gwen smiles and nods. Morgana hugs her. Gwen looks uneasy, Morgana smirks out at
the army]
--
[33:11, Gwaine and Merlin walk over a hill, Arthur limps. They stop when they see a
burning village]
Gwaine: What the hell happened?
Arthur: I don't know. We need to hurry. We're still a day's march from Camelot.
--
[33:30, Gwaine, Arthur, and Merlin find fallen knights of Camelot]
Arthur: Camelot patrol.
Merlin: There's not a single enemy body.
Arthur: He's right. This wasn't a fight, this was a slaughter.
Gwaine: Who could've done such a thing?
Arthur: An army of men that cannot die. Come on.
--
[34:02, Arthur, Gwaine, and Merlin climb over another hill to find smoke rising
from Camelot. The walk to the castle is strewn with bodies of Camelot's army]
Arthur: They never stood a chance.
--
[34:39, Lower Town. Bodies are strewn through the street. Arthur struggles to open
Gwen's front door]
Gwaine: Here, let me.
[Gwaine kicks the door in. Elyan jumps up with a battle cry, Arthur and Gwaine take
defensive stances]
Merlin: Elyan!
Elyan: I'm sorry.
Arthur: Where is everyone?
Elyan: I- I thought that...
Arthur: Elyan, please, What happened?
Elyan: They came out of nowhere, a mighty army. Weapons were useless against them.
Th-they were men, Sire, but not men. Nothing could kill them. Nothing.
Arthur: Wh, Where's your sister? Where's Guinevere?
Elyan: She was in the citadel when they attacked.
Arthur: Then there's still hope.
Elyan: Sire, the citadel's been taken.
[Arthur, Gwaine, Merlin, and Elyan exit Gwen's house, Arthur limping badly]
Arthur: Let's go.
Elyan: How much longer can he keep going like this?
Merlin: I don't know.
--
[36:16, the citadel. Arthur pauses in a corridor, struggling to stand]
Gwaine: Where now?
Arthur: Now, er... Now we, er...
Merlin: Arthur, you can't go on.
Arthur: We must. We must find the others...
Merlin: You can't go on without treatment.
Arthur: ...Guinevere and my father.
Merlin: Elyan.
Elyan: Yeah?
Merlin: Do you know your way to the dungeons?
Elyan: Yeah, I think so.
Merlin: Go with Gwaine. See if you can find them.
Arthur: I'm going with them.
Merlin: No, you're not.
Arthur: That's an order.
Merlin: No, to hell with your orders. You're coming with me.
[Merlin puts Arthur's arm around his shoulder and drags him down the corridor]
--
Arthur: You're disobeying orders, Merlin. I'll have you in the stocks for this.
Merlin: Fine. Now, stay put and try not to move that leg.
[Merlin looks for a potion, but hears a rattling in the cupboard. He picks up
Arthur's sword and goes to check it out. Merlin yanks the door open]
Merlin: Gaius!
Gaius: Merlin!
[Merlin and Gaius hug]
Merlin: Are you alright?
Gaius: All the better for seeing you.
[Arthur groans]
Gaius: Arthur.
Merlin: I tried to heal him using magic, but it didn't work.
[Gaius nods and goes to Arthur]
Gaius: This may hurt a bit, Sire.
[Gaius inspects the wound]
Arthur: Ah.
Gaius: The wound's infected. I'll have to redress the leg to reduce the
inflammation.
Arthur: No, no, no, no. We haven't got time. Just give me something to keep going.
Gaius: Yes, Sire.
Merlin: It's the army of immortals, isn't it?
Gaius: We'll be lucky to get away with our lives, any of us.
--
[38:29, Dungeons. Gwaine and Elyan peek around the corner to see Uther being
dragged out of a cell by immortal soldiers]
Uther: Where are you taking me? I am the King! I demand to know!
--
[Merlin's Chamber. Merlin pulls his magic book and the Avalon water vial from the
floorboard under his bed and packs it in a bag.
--
[38:52, Physician's Chambers. Gaius hands Arthur a potion]
Gaius: The effect will be instant, Sire, but I cannot guarantee how long it'll
last.
Arthur: Thank you, Gaius.
[Gwaine and Elyan enter]
Elyan: The King, Sire, he's alive.
Arthur: Where is he?
Gwaine: They're taking him to the throne room as we speak.
Arthur: This may be my last chance.
Merlin: Arthur, there's too many of them. You'll never make it.
Arthur: I won't leave my father to die here alone. Gwaine, Elyan, take Gaius and
make your way to the woods beyond the castle. I hope we meet again.
[Gwaine, Elyan, and Gaius leave]
Arthur: Merlin, you should go with them.
Merlin: Nah, I've seen the woods already.
[Arthur grabs Merlin's shoulder with a smile and the two of them sneak through the
corridors. Arthur stumbles on their way out of hiding]
Merlin: Are you alright?
Arthur: Keep moving.
--
[39:47, Merlin and Arthur crawl to the edge of the balcony above the Throne Room.
Immortal soldiers force Uther to his knees in front of Morgause]
Morgause: Well, Uther, how the mighty have fallen.
[Arthur makes a furious move, but Merlin grabs him]
Merlin (whisper): The guards are immortal, they'll cut you to ribbons! What use are
you dead?
Morgause: I don't think you'll be needing this anymore.
[Moraguse removes Uther's crown]
Uther: This is unlawful. You cannot do this. You have no right to the throne!
Morgana: No, she does not. But I do. I am your daughter, after all. Don't look so
surprised. I've known for some time.
[Shock dawns on Arthur's face. Morgana sits on the throne. Morgause nods to a
soldier, and the soldier shoves Geoffrey of Monmouth forward, the queen's crown in
his hands]
Geoffrey: By the power vested in me, I crown thee Morgana Pendragon, Queen of
Camelot.
[Immortal soldiers push Uther into a bow. Morgana and Morgause smirk. Arthur
watches in horror]
-----------------------------------------------
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December 6 2010, 18:34
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BBC Merlin: 3x13 The Coming of Arthur, Part 2
KILGHARRAH
--
Morgana: Tell me, Sir Leon, how have you enjoyed the first week of my reign? Speak
up. Are you and your fellow knights ready to honour and serve me?
Leon: I would rather die.
Morgause: That can be arranged.
Leon: My loyalty is to the King and Prince Arthur. There is nothing you can do to
change that.
Morgana: We shall see.
--
Elyan: I'll get some more.
Merlin: It's too dangerous.
Gaius: What happened?
Merlin: Nothing. [whisper to Gaius] We need to do something. Morgana's men are
everywhere.
--
Morgana: I will give you one more chance to pledge your allegiance to me
Leon: Long live the King!
Knights: Long live the King!
Morgana: Perhaps this will help you change your mind.
Leon: No!
--
Morgana: Father.
Uther: Why are you doing this?
Morgana: Oh, come, come. Surely you of all people must understand. Sometimes such
measures are necessary.
Uther: Those people are innocent.
Morgana: As were so many that you put to death.
Uther: If you must kill someone, kill me.
Morgana: You'll get your wish. But not yet. First I want you to suffer as I
suffered. To know what it's like to be alone and afraid. To be disgusted with who
and what you are.
Uther: Do you really hate me so much?
Morgana: You cannot begin to know how much I hate you.
--
Merlin: It's rat. Oh, believe me, you've eaten far worse. I mean, I've definitely
served you things I would never have touched, but you wolfed them down no problem.
Arthur: Merlin, for once, leave me in peace, please.
Merlin: I understand. Your father lied to you about Morgana. I don't know why. I'm
sure he had his reasons, but now is not the time for that. He's still your father.
He needs you. Camelot needs you.
Arthur: I've known her all my life. How could she do this to us?
Merlin: I can't answer that, but you have a duty to your father, to your people.
You can't give up on them now.
Arthur: You cannot defeat an immortal army.
Merlin: We don't know until we try.
--
Morgana: I'm beginning to see the challenges that I face. Being queen is not so
simple, Gwen.
Gwen: You're doing well, your Majesty.
Morgana: You think? The knights do not share your view.
Gwen: They don't know you.
Morgana: I need their allegiance. Without that, the people will not yield to me.
Gwen: My mother was a maid in Sir Leon's household. We grew up together. I could
talk to him, try to make him see sense?
Morgana: You would do that for me?
Gwen: Uther killed my father.
Morgana: Yes, I...forgot you too had suffered.
Gwen: Let me meet with Sir Leon.
Morgana: I will arrange it.
Gwen: Thank you, your Majesty.
--
Merlin: We need to act before Morgana gets any stronger.
Gaius: Have you sent word to Lancelot yet?
Merlin: I sent a letter to Haldor days ago. He's probably moved on.
Gaius: Give it time.
Merlin: We don't have time. We need to act now.
Gaius: I know, Merlin, but how?
Merlin: There was an immortal army before. How was it defeated?
Gaius: The Cup of Life had to be emptied of the blood it contained. Once that had
happened, the enchantment no longer held.
Merlin: Then that's what I have to do.
Gaius: They're immortal, Merlin. You don't know the power to defeat a soldier,
never mind an army.
--
Leon: Guinevere.
Gwen: It's all I could get.
Leon: I don't understand. What are you doing here?
Gwen: Morgana sent me...to talk to you, to make you see sense. Listen to me.
Leon: I'd rather starve. Guard!
Gwen: I'm going to help you escape. [to guard] It's alright. Get me some water. The
queen has instructed me to get the prisoner food and water.
Leon: You know what will happen to you if you're caught.
Gwen: We have to find Arthur.
Leon: I've a good idea where he'll be hiding.
Gwen: Then I need to get you out of here.
Leon: How? It's impossible, surely?
Gwen: I'm a trusted member of the court. Morgause has the keys to the cells in her
chambers.
Leon: No, Gwen
Morgana: It is as we suspected. She's betrayed me. I will have her executed at
dawn.
Morgause: No. Wait. This is good. Let her run to her beloved prince. She will lead
us straight to him.
Gwen: No one will suspect me.
--
Gaius: Merlin, what are you doing?
Merlin: Looking for something.
Gaius: What?
Merlin: This. When I met the Fisher King, he gave me this. He told me, in Camelot's
darkest hour, when all seems lost, it would show me the way.
Gaius: Yes. But how?
Merlin: That's what I've got to find out.
--
Morgana: Did you speak to Sir Leon?
Gwen: Yes.
Morgana: And will he do as you asked?
Gwen: It might take some time, but I think he will come 'round.
Morgana: Gwen, this deserves a celebration.
Gwen: Your Majesty.
Morgana: To friendship and loyalty.
Gwen: To friendship and loyalty.
--
Merlin: *spell1* *spell2*
--
Gwen: My Lady? Morgause?
--
Merlin: *spell*
--
[Gwen, the blacksmith's daughter;)]
--
Gwaine: Sorry. Nature calls.
Merlin: Oh, no! Freya?
Freya: I've missed you.
Merlin: You're...
Freya: Merlin, we don't have long.
Merlin: Is it really you?
Freya: I swore that one day I would repay you. Now is the moment.
Merlin: I don't understand.
Freya: There is but one weapon that slay something which is already dead.
Merlin: A blade forged in the dragon's breath.
Freya: That weapon lies at the bottom of the Lake of Avalon. Where you hid it.
Merlin: But Morgana's army are not dead, they're very much alive.
Freya: Anyone who toys with the cup pays a terrible price. The moment they entered
their pact with Morgause, they became the living dead. You must come to the lake.
Merlin: And you will give me the sword?
Freya: In your hands it has the power to save Albion.
Merlin: Thank you.
Freya: No. It's giving me the chance to see you again.
Gwaine: That's better. You alright? You look like you've seen a ghost.
Merlin: I'm fine. Really. [whispers] Freya?
--
Merlin: I have to cross 20 leagues of hostile territory. I need you to take me.
Kilgharrah: I am not a horse, Merlin!
Merlin: If you do not, then Morgana will have won. Unless that's what you want.
Kilgharrah: My allegiance has never been with the witch.
Merlin: I know. But is it with me?
Kilgharrah: Yes, young warlock. It is with you.
Merlin: Thank you.
Kilgharrah: I warned you before that, in the wrong hands, this sword can do great
evil. You must promise me, Merlin, that once its task is done, you will place it
where none can wield it.
Merlin: I promise. *spell*
--
[Gwen slips Leon the key]
--
Gwen: We haven't got time to waste. [hands him a dress]
Leon: You...You can't be serious.
Gwen: Just hurry! Every guard in Camelot will be looking for you. They won't be
looking for two women courtiers.
Leon: Augh.
--
Morgana: Sounds like the wait is over.
Morgause: *spell* The potion does its work.
Morgana: Off you go. Hurry along to your beloved prince.
--
Gwen: What's taking you so long?
Leon: I'm a women.
Gwen: Here, let me help you.
Leon: From here, we need to take the path heading north. There's a cave in the
Darkling Woods, five minutes due east of the fallen oak. It has a concealed
entrance and fresh water. My guess is that's where Arthur's hiding out.
--
Morgause: *spell* This way.
--
Arthur: Having a little lie down, Merlin?
Merlin: No.
Arthur: Good. Because the time for sleeping's over.
Merlin: You seem better.
Arthur: You're hopeless at a lot of things, Merlin. Well, most thing, in fact. But
very occasionally, quite by accident, you say something useful.
Merlin: Really?
Arthur: Yesterday, amongst all your gibberish, you said something that, if I didn't
know you, I'd be completely fooled into thinking you were...
Merlin: What?
Arthur: Wise.
Merlin: Nah.
[distant shouts]
Arthur: Guinevere! Sir Leon.
Elyan: We've been found! They're almost upon us!
Arthur: [to Merlin] Get Gaius. [to others] We need to get out of here. Run!
Merlin: They've found us. We need to go.
Gaius: I'll slow you down. It's Arthur you need to protect, not me.
Merlin: I won't leave you!
Gaius: Camelot needs you.
Merlin: Camelot needs us both. Go! I'll be right behind you!
--
Percival: Look out!
Arthur: Who's that?
Gwaine: Don't know, but I'm liking him already.
Gwen: Lancelot!
Lancelot: We need to hurry.
--
Arthur: I take it that rock fall wasn't an accident.
Lancelot: This is Percival. It was his strength that brought them down.
Percival: Your Highness.
Arthur: Arthur.
Percival: Arthur it is.
Arthur: What were you doing here?
Merlin: Er...it was me. I sent for him.
Arthur: Well, we owe you our lives. Thank you.
--
Morgause: He was lucky to escape. I'm sorry, Sister.
Morgana: What can he do? Arthur has but a handful of men. We have an immortal army
at our disposal.
Morgause: Yes, but whist Arthur lives, the people will not yield.
Morgana: Then we will make them. Tonight we will have a gallows built, and
tomorrow, one by one, we will put an end to the knights of Camelot.
--
Gaius: Are you sure we'll be safe in here?
Arthur: This castle belonged to the ancient kings. It'll do for a while.
Elyan: Can't be worse than that cave.
Arthur: Search the place, see what you can find.
Gwaine: They must've been left by bandits.
Arthur: Here! Come and join me. This table belonged to the ancient kings of
Camelot. A round table afforded no one man more importance than any other. They
believed in equality in all things. So, it seems fitting that we revive this
tradition now. Without each of you, we would not be here. My father has languished
in prison for too long. Tomorrow, I make my bid to rescue him. Are there any around
this table who will join me?
Lancelot: You taught me the values of being a knight, the code by which a man
should live his life. To fight with honour for justice, freedom, and all that's
good. I believe in the world that you will build.
Elyan: Even though I was a commoner, a nobody, you were willing to lay down your
life for me, Arthur. It is now my turn to repay you.
Leon: I have fought alongside you many times. There is no one that I would rather
die for.
Gwaine: I think we've no chance. But I wouldn't miss it for the world.
Percival: Your enemies are my enemies.
Gaius: If you need an old man.
Gwen: You know the answer.
Arthur: Merlin?
Merlin: No, don't really fancy it.
Arthur: You don't have a choice, Merlin.
Merlin: OK.
Arthur: I want to thank you all for staying loyal to me in Camelot's hour of need.
I'll do something that my father won't approve of.
--
Arthur: Arise, Sir Lancelot, Knight of camelot. Arise, Sir Gawain, Knight of
camelot. Arise, Sir Percival, Knight of camelot. Arise, Sir Elyan, Knight of
camelot. Tomorrow, when you fight, you can stand proud knowing you are members of
the most noble army the world has ever known.
--
Merlin: You're a knight. At last.
Lancelot: But for how long?
Merlin: Who knows?
Lancelot: What'you planning? And don't even think about lying; I know you too well.
Merlin: It's too difficult to explain.
Lancelot: You can tell me.
Merlin: Morgana has the Cup of Life. If I can find it and empty it of the blood
within, then the army will be destroyed, and Morgana will be powerless.
Lancelot: Aren't you forgetting something? It's guarded by an immortal army.
Merlin: Aren't you forgetting something? I have magic.
Lancelot: It doesn't make you immortal.
Merlin: No.
Lancelot: You know, Merlin, you're the one Arthur should knight. You're the bravest
of us all and he doesn't even know it.
Merlin: He can't. Not yet. That's why I need to find a way to get to the Cup
without Arthur knowing.
Lancelot: Leave that to me.
--
Arthur: There is a tunnel under the northern ramparts that brings us only a few
paces from the entrance to the dungeons. It will be well guarded. So, if we're
going to break everyone out, we must remain unobserved. We cannot let them raise
the alarm.
Lancelot: We need to take out the warning bell. That way the warriors have no mean
of communication.
Arthur: Good idea.
Lancelot: I'll need someone with me who knows the castle.
Merlin: I'll go.
Arthur: Alright.
--
Arthur: Stay here with Gaius. I want you to gather firewood and make bandages.
There'll be casualties.
Gwen: Alright.
Arthur: Guinevere.
Gwen: They'll see.
Arthur: I don't care. I want you to know...if I never see you again...
Gwen: You will. You will see me. I watched you last night. You gave us hope,
something to believe in. I saw the king you will become. I'm so proud of you
Arthur.
--
Gaius: You need to be careful.
Merlin: I've got the easy bit. The warning bell is nothing compared to the cells.
Gaius: I overheard you, Merlin. If Morgause catches you, she'll kill you.
Merlin: I have no choice.
Gaius: I remember the bumbling idiot that came charging into my chamber all those
years ago. Who would believe.
--
[Arthur & Co. approaching castle]
Gwen: Gaius? Gaius?!
--
Arthur [to Lancelot]: Good luck.
--
Merlin: *gasp* I can sense the Cup's power. This way. [kills guard]
Lancelot: What is that?
Merlin: It was forged in a dragon's breath.
--
Gwaine: *whistles* [to Percival] Now! [to guards] Stay there and don't move, eh?
--
[Merlin and Lancelot peek around a corner]
Lancelot: What do we do now? [Merlin shakes head]
--
[Arthur & Co. fight guards, Arthur throws keys to the imprisoned knights]
--
[Lancelot and Merlin attack guards, get inside council room, lock door, and face
more guards]
--
[Arthur opens Uther's cell]
Arthur: Father, we have to hurry.
Uther: I'm sorry.
Arthur: Please, Father, now isn't the time.
--
[Lancelot and Merlin fight]
[Arthur & Co. fight]
[Lancelot & Merlin fight, Lancelot injured]
[Arthur & Co. fight, warning bell sounds]
Arthur: What the hell are those two doing?!
[Lancelot & Merlin fight, Merlin kills last guard, goes for the Cup, Morgause
throws him]
[Arthur & Co. fight, reinforcements arrive. Arthur stops fighting]
Arthur: If we're gonna go down! We'll go down fighting! For the love of Camelot!
Knights of the Round Table: RAAAAAHHHHHHH!
--
Morgause [to Merlin]: I have a feeling I won't be seeing you again.
Gaius: No, you won't. *spell* [Morgause thrown. Gets up to cast spell]
Morgause: Ahhhh! [thrown by Merlin, knocked out]
Gaius: Merlin! The Cup! [Merlin picks up Excalibur and knocks Cup off pedestal,
blood spills]
--
[Arthur & Co. guards explode]
--
[Morgana enters council room]
Morgana: No! No! [runs to and embraces Morgause] Sister.
Merlin: It's over, Morgana.
Morgana: No, you're wrong. This has just begun! No. *screams*
[windows explode, council romo crumbles, Merlin, Gaius, and Lancelot flee the
scene]
--
Arthur: You're safe now, Father.
Elyan: Where's Gwaine? Gwaine? You still alive?
Gwaine: What do you think? And that's Sir Gwaine to you.
--
Arthur: Have you seen the state of these boots?
Merlin: Yeah.
Arthur: Well, go and get something to clean them.
Merlin: Why? They're your boots.
Arthur: Have you lost your mind?
Merlin: I thought you believed in equality.
Arthur: I'm sorry?
Merlin: At the Round Table, you said...
Arthur: Shut up, Merlin. [gives Merlin a friendly shove]
Merlin: How's your father?
Arthur: I don't know. All this. Morgana. It's hit him hard.
Merlin: Perhaps we're heading for a new time. You may need to take charge,
become...become King.
Arthur: Who knows what the future will bring.
--
Gaius: And they searched through the remains of the rubble, and still no Morgana?
Merlin: Or Morgause.
Gaius: They won't have gone far. Merlin, no one else is going to say this to you,
but I will. Well done.
Merlin: I told you Camelot needed both of us.
Gaius: We're going to have to tidy this place up.
Merlin: Hmm. But not now.
Gaius: Where are you going?
Merlin: Er...
Gaius: What are you up to?
Merlin: There's something I have to do.
--
Kilgharrah: In the wrong hands, this sword can do great evil. You must promise me,
Merlin, that once it's task is done, you will place is where none can wield it.
Merlin Will Return
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September 24 2011, 15:27
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6
BBC Merlin: 4x01 The Darkest Hour, Part One
KILGHARRAH
shoulders of a young man. His name: Merlin.
[00:14, PLAINS OF DENARIA - DAY]

[A cloaked figure struggles to pull a horse cart along a dusty road. Four nights
approach on horseback.]
SIR LEON
Halt!
[The cloaked woman stops.]
SIR LEON (cont'd)

Stay where you are.
[The woman sets down the cart handles a as the knights dismount, Sir Elyan among
them.]
SIR LEON (cont'd)

Where are you headed?
MORGANA
The Seas of Meredor.
SIR LEON
What's in the cart?
[Morgana says nothing. Sir Leon motions for the spare knights to search it and
Morgana turns around.]
SIR LEON
Lady Morgana.
[Morgana uses magic to throw each of the knights to the ground. She looks around,
pulls off her hood and pulls down a blanket in the cart.]
MORGANA
Are you alright?
MORGAUSE
Yes, thank you, Sister. But we must hurry. Night is nearly upon us.
[Morgause turns her face towards Morgana, revealing a hideous deformity to the
right side of her face.]
MORGAUSE (cont'd)
And we still have far to go.
--
[New Opening credits]
--
[02:02, CASTLE SQUARE - MORNING]

[Merlin runs through knights and servants and into the Castle. Servants are
decorating the castle with vines and Merlin ducks under one of them as he bolts up
the Griffin Stairway.]
MERLIN
Sorry.
[02:15, CASTLE KITCHENS - MORNING]

[Merlin bumps into more servants and nicks some food off a passing plate. The head
cook accosts him with a ladle.]
HEAD COOK
What are you doing in my kitchen?
MERLIN
Uh, the prince's shirt.
[The cook motions to the line above the stove where the pots are hanging.]
HEAD COOK
Keep your dirty fingers off my food. Do you understand?
[Merlin grabs the shirt and a hook on a string drops down in front of his face. He
looks up, confused. Sir Gwaine and Sir Percival are peering down at him with eager
and mischievous grins. Gwaine puts a finger to his lips and Merlin laughs. Merlin
attaches the hook to one of the roasting chickens and pulls on the string. The
knights pull it up to them as Merlin exits hastily.]
HEAD COOK
Oi!
[02:48, CASTLE HALLWAY - MORNING]
[Merlin weaves through bustling servants. A servant with wine pitchers bumps into
him and spills it all over Arthur's newly washed shirt. Merlin picks up the stained
shirt and stares at it.]
SIR LANCELOT
You could try a bit of salt.
MERLIN
Arthur is going to kill me.
SIR LANCELOT
Let's see.
[Sir Lancelot looks at the shirt.]
SIR LANCELOT (cont'd)

You've faced far worse, Merlin.
MERLIN
He needs it for tonight.
SIR LANCELOT
I'm sure a man of your talents can think of something.
[Lancelot lifts his eyebrows knowingly. Lancelot keeps walking and Merlin checks to
see no one's looking.]
MERLIN
Fordwin wamm.
[Lancelot stops and turns around. Merlin shows him the clean shirt and Lancelot
opens his arms as if to say "See, that was easy." The both continue on their way.]
--
[03:22, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - MORNING]
[Arthur's leaning against his desk and writing, as Merlin enters with his clean
white shirt.]
MERLIN
Your dressed.
ARTHUR
Yes, Merlin. I'm not an idiot.
[Arthur turns around to walk behind his desk. He didn't manage to pull his shirt
all the way through his belt in the back and his skin is showing. Merlin sniggers.]
MERLIN
Are you sure about that?
ARTHUR
Beg your pardon?
MERLIN
It's just that you--
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
But you--
ARTHUR
I am trying to write a speech.
MERLIN
Do you want help?
ARTHUR
No.
MERLIN
You won't want this, then?
[Merlin holds up a scroll and Arthur looks up from his desk.]
MERLIN (cont'd)
I spent all night working on it.
[Arthur takes the scroll and looks over it with exaggerated scepticism.]
MERLIN (cont'd)
What do you think?
[Arthur hands it back to Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Needs a polish.
MERLIN
I'll add it to the list.
[Arthur tosses the speech he was working on.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, there aren't many servants who get the chance to write a prince's speech.
Obviously it would be too much for you to say, "Thank you."
[Merlin stares at Arthur for a moment and walks out with his laundry without
deigning reply. Arthur smiles.]
--
[04:11, SEAS OF MEREDOR - DAY]
[Morgana helps Morgause limp out of the cart in the foggy wood.]
MORGAUSE
The Isle of the Blessed.
[Morgana helps Morgause to the dock. A ferryman waits for them by a longboat. He
holds out his hand. Morgause places a coin in it.]
MORGAUSE
You know where we wish to go.
[The sisters huddle in the boat, the ferryman at the helm, as it glides across the
sea.]
--
[04:49, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Uther's hand shakes badly as he lowers his goblet to the table in front of his
chair. Gwen enters and watches him with a pitying expression before she approaches
him.]
GWEN
Not eaten, sire? Sire?
[Uther doesn't seem to hear her, lost in his own misery. Gwen takes the tray of
untouched food and meets Gaius on her way out. She looks at the potion in Gaius's
hand.]
GWEN (cont'd)
It doesn't seem to make any difference.
GAIUS
I'm not sure it ever will. But at least it gives him peace.
GWEN
It's been a year since Morgana betrayed him.
GAIUS (nods)
His heart is broken and his spirit is gone. You're joining us for the feast
tonight?
GWEN
I don't think so. I need to stay with the king.
GAIUS
You're very good to him, Gwen.
GWEN
I don't do it for him; I do it for Arthur.
[Gaius watches Gwen exit.]
--
[05:59, SEAS OF MEREDOR - DAY]
[Morgause and Morgana continue across the sea with the ferryman.]
--
[06:12, COUNCIL CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Sir Leon and Sir Elyan ride into the square and report to Arthur and the Council.]
SIR LEON
The reports are true, sire. We caught up with Morgana on the Plains of Denaria.
ARTHUR
Was she alone?
SIR ELYAN (shakes head)

There was someone else.
ARTHUR
Morgause.
SIR ELYAN
Couldn't be sure.
[A man speaks from the shadows.]
AGRAVAINE
Where was Morgana heading?
SIR LEON
To the Seas of Meredor.
GAIUS
Isle of the Blessed.
[Agravaine steps into the light.]
AGRAVAINE
I'll send out patrols at first light.
ARTHUR
Thank you, Agravaine.
SIR LEON
Sire, you should know her powers have grown. Sir Bertrand and Sir Wontague are both
dead.
ARTHUR
Keep me informed of any developments.
[The councilmen all bow and exit. Agravaine remains.]
ARTHUR (cont'd)
For months, nothing. Why now?
AGRAVAINE
We knew she couldn't stay hidden forever. Today, tomorrow, what does it matter?
Mustn't live in fear, Arthur. Camelot is strong. If Morgana were to act, we'd be
ready for her.
ARTHUR
You're right, of course. I don't know how I'd've got through these last few months
without you. Thank you, Uncle.
AGRAVAINE
I made a promise to your mother. I'll always be there for you.
[Arthur nods with a smile and exits.]
--
[07:34, ISLE OF THE BLESSED - NIGHT]
[Wyvern shriek as they fly around the fortress as Morgana's boat continues to the
isle.]
--
[07:55, BANQUET HALL - NIGHT]
[Arthur and Agravaine sit on either side of the king's chair at the feast. Arthur
stands and the laughter dies down.]
ARTHUR
Samhain. It is the time of year when we feel closest to the spirits of our
ancestors. It is a time to remember those we have lost to celebrate their passing.
--
[08:15, ISLE OF THE BLESSED, ALTAR - NIGHT]
MORGAUSE
Samhain is almost upon us. We must hurry.
MORGANA
I can't do this.
MORGAUSE
Sister. Remember what I told you. It is the only way. What you are about to do will
affect everyone, even you. But most importantly, it will bring our enemies to their
knees. You must be strong, remember that.
[Morgause presents Morgana with a dagger.]
MORGAUSE (cont'd)
Do not be scared.
[Morgana takes the dagger.]
MORGAUSE (cont'd)
I am not long for this world. There is nothing left for me here now.
[Morgause weakly climbs onto the altar stone and takes Morgana's hand.]
MORGAUSE (cont'd)
Please, sister, let my parting be my final gift to you.
[Morgause lies down on the altar.]
--
[Arthur raises his glass in a toast.]
ARTHUR
To the king.
[Everyone stands to toast as the bell tolls.]
--
MORGANA
Eala leofu sweoster, paem gastum befaeste ic pe. Alys pa peoster pe inne onwunap.
[?]
[Morgana poises the dagger to strike, her eyes glow and she plunges it into
Morgause's chest. Morgause gasps.]
--
[Merlin senses the magic and everything goes into slow-mo.]
GAIUS (distorted)
To the king.
AGRAVAINE (distorted)
To the king.
[The knights toast their glasses as Merlin freaks out.]
--
[10:21 , ISLE OF THE BLESSED, ALTAR - NIGHT]
[Morgana is blown off her feet.]
--
[Merlin sees a dead-looking woman in a black, hooded cloak with a staff standing in
the middle of the banquet hall.]
CAILLEACH (whisper)
Emrys. Emrys. Emrys.
[Merlin drops his empty serving pitcher and the whole hall goes quiet and stares at
him. He swoons. Lancelot rushes to his side. Arthur rolls his eyes. Merlin shivers
on the floor.]
--
[Cailleach strokes Morgana's cheek and Morgana wakes. She sits up and sees the
cloaked woman standing in front of the rift.]
MORGANA
Who are you?
CAILLEACH
I am the Cailleach, the gatekeeper to the spirit world. You have torn the veil
between the worlds.
[Eerie screams echo from the rift.]
CAILLEACH (cont'd)
The Dorocha. They are the voices of the dead, my child. And, like the dead, they
are numberless.
[Morgana looks around in fear.]
CAILLEACH (cont'd)
You are right to be afraid, Morgana. Your enemies will rue this day and all the
destruction it brings, but you must beware. Tearing the veil between the worlds has
created a new world, and you will not walk through it alone. The one they call
Emrys will walk in your shadow. He is your destiny, and he is your doom. (whisper)
Emrys.
--
[12:17, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Lancelot lays Merlin on the bed.]
SIR LANCELOT
What happened?
GAIUS
I don't know. I've never felt anyone so cold before.
SIR LANCELOT
Will he be alright?
GAIUS
I'll need Hawthorne to improve the blood flow. And blankets. Lots of blankets.
[Lancelot goes to fetch them.]
--
[12:36, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius is grinding something as Merlin steps out of his chamber wearing a blanket.
They sit together.]
MERLIN
When she spoke, her voice...it was as though it came from the depths of the earth,
and her eyes...they were so sad. So much pain in them. Who is she?
GAIUS
The Cailleach, the gatekeeper to the spirit world.
MERLIN
Why was she there?
GAIUS
It was on the stroke of midnight of Samhain's Eve, the very moment when the veil
between the worlds is at its thinnest. It cannot be a coincidence.
MERLIN
Why was I the only one to see her.
GAIUS
You have great power, Merlin. For someone so gifted, such visions are not uncommon.
MERLIN
But you don't understand. It wasn't a vision. She knew who I was. She called me
Emrys.
[Gaius ponders.]
MERLIN (cont'd)
What is it? What does it mean?
GAIUS
I'm not sure. But if someone has torn the veil between the worlds, then God help us
all.
--
[14:01, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - MORNING]
[Merlin brings in a breakfast tray and sets it noisily on the table while Arthur's
still in bed.]
ARTHUR
Merlin.
[Merlin opens the curtains.]
ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
What?
[Arthur puts a pillow over his face. Someone knocks at the door.]
ARTHUR (muffled)
Merlin!
MERLIN
That's not me.
[Arthur takes off the pillow and Sir Leon enters.]
SIR LEON
Excuse me, sire. You're needed in the council chambers as a matter of urgency.
--
[14:22, COUNCIL CHAMBERS - MORNING]
[The council is gathered around a weeping woman.]
ARTHUR
What's happened to her?
AGRAVAINE
Her village was attacked.
ARTHUR
By who?
AGRAVAINE
Not entirely clear, sir.
[Arthur approaches the weeping woman]
ARTHUR
What's your name?
DREA
Drea.
[Arthur steps closer and the girl tenses. Arthur puts a comforting hand on her
shoulder and speaks tenderly.]
ARTHUR
Drea.
[She uncertainly makes eye contact.]
ARTHUR
I'm Arthur. Don't be frightened. Tell me what happened.
DREA
My mother, my father, my litter sister, they're...
[She starts weeping again.]
ARTHUR
It's all right. It's all right.
[Drea nods.]
ARTHUR (cont'd)
Someone attacked them.
[Drea nods.]
ARTHUR (cont'd)
Who?
DREA
There was no one. Just...shapes.
ARTHUR
You didn't see their faces?
DREA
They had no faces.
[Arthur looks uncertainly at a few councilmen. Merlin turns at the sound of

something behind him.]
DREA
I-- I keep telling you. They were there, but...they weren't there. They moved so
quickly. It was as if they weren't real, but...they must've been. I could hear the
people screaming. And then...silence. They were all...dead.
[Drea breaks down and Arthur comforts her.]
ARTHUR
Hey. Thank you.
[Arthur turns her to cry on Gaius's shoulder.]
ARTHUR
Where is this village?
AGRAVAINE
Howden. It's to the east of the White Mountains, no more than half a day's hard
ride.
ARTHUR (to Sir Leon)

Ready the men.
--
[16:12, WOODS - DAY]
[The Round Table knights ride out of Camelot. Merlin is startled by the sound of a
woodpecker.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, you need your comfort blanket?
MERLIN
What do you mean?
ARTHUR
You're making me edgy.
[Lancelot's mount whinnies and Merlin jumps.]

ARTHUR
That's a horse.
MERLIN
Maybe it sensed something.
ARTHUR
Yes, that you're a clot pole.
MERLIN
That's my word.
ARTHUR
Yeah. And it suits you perfectly.
[The knights survey the slaughtered village.]
ARTHUR
It's too quiet.
[They enter the village on foot. All is silent. A door creaks loudly and they
freeze until a goat bleats and wanders out. They split up in pairs to search.
Arthur turns at a loud crunch. Gwaine just bit into an apple.]
SIR GWAINE
Sorry.
[Lancelot shakes his head.]
SIR ELYAN
Here!
[Gwaine drops the apple and they all run to Elyan. Inside one of the houses, they
stare at frosted corpses. They all turn as something whips past behind them.]
ARTHUR
You saw it?
SIR GWAINE
We are literally chasing shadows.
ARTHUR
Come on.
[They exit the house and search the village at night, bearing torches. Merlin
splits off from Lancelot when he hears a door shut in a barn. He walks around
cautiously and a chicken jumps out at him. He sighs in relief. Something shrieks
quietly behind him and he sees a wisp of it as it exits the barn. Merlin chases the
shrieking wisp and loses it.]
MERLIN
Leoht.
[Merlin shines a light from his hand. The light fades.]
MERLIN
Leoht.
[The light shines briefly and disappears.]

MERLIN
Leoht.
[Nothing happens. Screams echo around him. A wisp shoots straight for him.]
MERLIN
Fleoh nu on moras! Fleoh nu on moras!
[Merlin's eyes glow, but nothing happens.]
SIR LANCELOT
Merlin!
[Lancelot uses his torch to repel the wisp.]
SIR LANCELOT
What happened?
MERLIN
My magic...I couldn't use it.
[The others come running.]
SIR LANCELOT
There's something out there!
ARTHUR
You saw it?
SIR LANCELOT
When it saw the light, it fled.
SIR GWAINE
It scared the horses.
MERLIN
It's not something you can chase or something you can kill.
[The shrieks echo.]
ARTHUR
We need to get out of here.
--
[21:33, MAIN SQUARE - NIGHT]
[People are screaming and running into the Castle. Gwen rushes down a hallway with
blankets and a torch.]
AGRAVAINE
Gwen! Warn Gaius there are more victims by the western gate.
[Agravaine continues down another hallway and Gwen rushes on until a window behind
her smashes in right behind a knight. The skull wisp rushes in and the knight
screams. Gwen takes cover behind a column and brandishes her torch at the skull
wisp. The skull wisp leaves and she crouches to check on the knight. He's frozen
solid.]
--
[22:10, MORGUE - NIGHT]
[Guards exit with a stretcher and Gaius pulls a cloth over the face of one of many
victims.]
MERLIN
Gaius.
GAIUS
Merlin.
[Gaius can tell that Merlin is freaked out.]
GAIUS (cont'd)
You saw them.
[Merlin nods.]
GAIUS (cont'd)
Here, help me. Give me some more sheets.
[Merlin's still acting strangely.]
GAIUS (cont'd)
Merlin?
MERLIN
My magic is useless against them. I've tried. I have never felt so powerless.
Something deep inside. And when it came for me, I felt this emptiness. I couldn't
breathe. I'm scared.
GAIUS
Merlin, it's alright. It's not your fault.
--
[23:13, AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBERS - MORNING]
AGRAVAINE
We've suffered fifty dead, maybe more. Mainly in the Lower Town.
ARTHUR
And there's no way of fighting them?
AGRAVAINE
No, our only weapons are torches. And the light doesn't kill them, it only repels
them.
ARTHUR
What are they?
GAIUS
They're Dorocha, sire. The spirits of the dead. On Samhain's Eve in the time of the
Old Religion, the high priestesses would perform a blood sacrifice and release
them.
AGRAVAINE
But who'd do such a thing now?
GAIUS
Morgana.
ARTHUR
You see her hand in this?
GAIUS
We know she was travelling to the Isle of the Blessed.
ARTHUR
How do we defeat these creatures?
GAIUS
I don't know, sire. No mortal has ever survived their touch.
--
[23:57, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin lights candles. He hears a Dorocha shriek and drops his basket of candles;
one rolls near the curtains. Arthur looks up.]
MERLIN
I thought I saw something.
ARTHUR
What was it, a spider?
[Merlin sees the curtain move and stares at the candle on the floor. Arthur watches
Merlin's hesitation.]
ARTHUR (cont'd)
Just pick it up.
[Merlin picks up the basket and they both stare at the curtain.]
ARTHUR (cont'd)
Do you want me to get one of the maids to do it for you?
MERLIN
It's not a joke.
ARTHUR
Yeah.
[Arthur approaches the curtain, uses his sword to whip it open. Nothing's there.
Merlin sighs in relief.]
ARTHUR
You see, Merlin, I could never be like you. I could never let myself look so
spineless.
MERLIN
Oh, see, I'm different. I could never let myself look heartless.
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
Well, alright. Thoughtless.
ARTHUR
Never.
MERLIN
Definitely humourless.
ARTHUR
Because you're not funny.
[Arthur hands Merlin the candle. They both turn when they hear the Dorocha.]
MERLIN
You're not scared?
ARTHUR
Oh, I am, Merlin. Maybe more than you.
--
[25:45, CAMELOT - NIGHT]
[The guards light fires in grates all over the city. A Dorocha sweeps past some
candles in the Physician's Chambers and blows out some of them. Gaius snaps up from
his work. Knights patrol the streets with torches. Sir Percival lags behind when he
sees/hears something. He walks over to some barrels and finds three small children
huddling behind them.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Hey, hey, hey. It's all right. It's all right, you're safe now.
[Percival hears the Dorocha and checks to see the knights walking in the distance.
He carefully calculates: 1 torch + 2 arms + 3 kids = oh noes! (comment courtesy of
ravenya03) Percival leaves the torch and runs through the street with the children
in his arms. A Dorocha streaks right for them and Elyan jumps in with a torch just
in time. Elyan takes one of the kids and they bring them to their parents in a
house.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Thanks.
SIR ELYAN
Couldn't let you have all the glory, could I?
[They grin at each other.]
--
[MAIN SQUARE - MORNING]
[Villagers crowd into Camelot with the belongings they can carry.]
[27:28, COUNCIL CHAMBER - MORNING]

[Arthur discusses the refugee villagers with Gaius, Merlin, and Agravaine.]
GAIUS
They're coming from across the kingdom. They're looking to Camelot for protection.
ARTHUR
And we will give it to them.
AGRAVAINE
We cannot house them all.
ARTHUR
We have to try.
AGRAVAINE
How? We cannot live like this forever, Arthur. We must find a way to vanquish these
creatures.
ARTHUR
Somewhere in all your books, Gaius, there must be something. All I'm asking for is
a way to fight them.
GAIUS
I fear the Dorocha cannot be defeated by swords and arrows, sire. If I am right,
and the veil between the worlds is torn, then there's only one path open to us. To
travel to the Isle of the Blessed and repair it.
ARTHUR
And how do I do that?
GAIUS
I'm not sure. But for the tear to be created would've required a blood sacrifice.
To seal will require another.
ARTHUR
We ride before nightfall.
[All three of his councillors are surprised.]
GAIUS
And who will be the sacrifice?
ARTHUR
If laying down my life will spare the people of Camelot, then that is what I must
do.
--
[Agravaine rides through the woods.]
--
[28:54, MORGANA'S HOVEL - DAY]
[Agravaine enters without knocking. She puts a dagger to his back.]
AGRAVAINE
My lady?
MORGANA
My lord.
[Agravaine sighs.]
MORGANA (cont'd)
I trust you bring me good news.
[She lowers the dagger and walks further into her home.]
MORGANA (cont'd)
Tell me.
AGRAVAINE
The kingdom is on its knees.
MORGANA
How terrible.
AGRAVAINE (chuckles)
Indeed.
MORGANA
What of the poor people?
AGRAVAINE
More fall every night.
MORGANA
Such a shame.
AGRAVAINE
You should know that Arthur intends to vanquish these creatures.
MORGANA (scoffs)
Impossible.
AGRAVAINE
He makes ready to go to the Isle of the Blessed as we speak. If the Dorocha don't
kill him on the way, our brave little lamb intends to sacrifice himself to repair
the veil.
[Morgana thinks it over and turns away.]
AGRAVAINE (cont'd)
Something's troubling you. Morgana.
MORGANA
Something the Cailleach said. She spoke of someone called Emrys. Called him my
doom.
AGRAVAINE
Your doom? What did she mean?
MORGANA
I don't know.
AGRAVAINE
Morgana, we should be celebrating. Arthur will be dead within the week, leaving the
throne open for Camelot's rightful heir.
[Morgana smirks.]
--
[Arthur sits with his absentminded father.]
ARTHUR
There are many things I have to thank you for. You've taught me so much. Most of
all, you have taught me what it is to be a prince. I hope that this time you'll be
proud of me.
[Arthur cries as Gwen walks in the doorway. Arthur stands, cups his father's chin
and kisses his forehead. Arthur turns to leave and Uther grabs his arm.]
UTHER
Don't leave me.
ARTHUR
I have to, Father.
UTHER
Please.
[Arthur squeezes his father's hand, then wipes his tears and leaves. He sees Gwen
and goes to her.]
ARTHUR
Promise me you'll look after him when I'm gone.
GWEN
What is it?
[Arthur doesn't respond.]
GWEN (cont'd)
You don't have to go.
ARTHUR
I do.
GWEN
Please, Arthur, take care. You are precious, not just the kingdom.
ARTHUR
Smile.
GWEN
I can't.
[Arthur lifts her chin.]
ARTHUR
Do you remember...the first time I kissed you?
[Gwen smiles. Arthur smiles at her reaction.]
ARTHUR (cont'd)
There. That's the memory I will take with me.
[They embrace. Gwen holds him tight, still worrying.]
--
[32:19, GATES - DAY]
[The Round Table knights walk their horses out of the city in slow-mo.]
--
[32:28, AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Arthur hands Agravaine a ring bearing the Pendragon seal.]
ARTHUR
You have to take this. It bears the royal seal. In my absence, responsibility to
the kingdom rests with you.
AGRAVAINE
What about your father?
ARTHUR
Should he die, you're to assume the throne.
AGRAVAINE
Arthur--
ARTHUR
You're the only person I trust, Uncle.
AGRAVAINE
I beg of you, for the sake of the kingdom, there must be another way.
[Agravaine presses the ring back into Arthur's hand.]
ARTHUR
My mind's made up. I'm just grateful you're here.
[Arthur leaves Agravaine with the ring.]
--
[33:00, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - DAY]
[Gaius enters while Merlin is packing.]
GAIUS
MERLIN
It is my destiny to protect Arthur.
GAIUS
How? Your magic is powerless against the Dorocha.
MERLIN
Then I must sacrifice myself in his place.
GAIUS
No.
MERLIN
My life has always been marked out by destiny. If this is meant to be...I'm not
afraid. I will gladly die, Gaius, knowing that one day...Albion will live.
[Speechless, Gaius hugs Merlin.]
--
[33:48, TRAINING GROUNDS - DAY]
[The Round Table knights mount their horses. Lancelot watches with a smile as Gwen
approaches him.]
SIR LANCELOT
Gwen.
GWEN
Will you grant me a favour?
SIR LANCELOT
Anything.
[Gwen looks over at Arthur exiting the city gate with Merlin.]
GWEN
Look after him. Bring him home.
[Lancelot looks sad and disappointed.]
SIR LANCELOT
I will protect him with my life. You have my promise.
GWEN
Thank you.
[Gwen walks back to the castle.]
--
[34:33, WOODS - DAY]
[The knights ride out. After dismounting, they prepare to make camp.]
ARTHUR
Elyan, look after the horses, they need watering. I need someone to volunteer to
get wood.
MERLIN
I'll do that.
[Lancelot watches Merlin go and follows.]
SIR LANCELOT
You shouldn't be here. You have no powers.
MERLIN
Doesn't matter.
SIR LANCELOT
You're not a warrior, Merlin. I don't want to see you hurt. If you leave in the
morning, I'll cover with Arthur.
MERLIN
It's your duty to protect Camelot no matter what the cost.
[Lancelot nods.]
MERLIN
Well, it's my duty to protect Arthur. Surely you can understand that.
SIR LANCELOT
I can understand that very well.
--
[35:42, MORGANA'S HOVEL - NIGHT]
[Still wearing her healing bracelet, Morgana has a prophetic dream. Red and black
banners lie strewn on a battlefield with knight's corpses. A raven sitting on a
helmet takes flight. Excalibur is stuck in the ground (or a knight's chest) Old
Merlin walks on the field with a white cane, looking down at the camera.]
MORGANA
Help me, Emrys. Please.
[Morgana's wrinkled hand reaches up to Old Merlin from her position on the ground,
below the camera. She's wearing vambraces.]
MERLIN
Is this really what you wanted, Morgana?
MORGANA
Please...
[Morgana wakes in her bed. At first she seems afraid, then angry.]
MORGANA
Emrys.
--
[36:33, COUNTRY ROAD - DAY]
[The knights ride by a field full of peasant corpses travelling to Camelot.]
ARTHUR
We need to reach Daelbeth by nightfall.
[The knights pick up the pace.]
--
[36:46, CRUMBLING FORTRESS - DUSK]
ARTHUR
Pair off. Find any wood you can. Get the fires burning.
[The knights collect firewood while carrying torches. Gwaine hears a man's scream
and drops his firewood. The nights gather together as screams start to surround
them. A Dorocha launches at them and Arthur wards it off with a torch.]
ARTHUR
Let's go!
SIR PERCIVAL
We haven't got enough!
ARTHUR
Go!
[The knights are back at the fire pit with Merlin and Lancelot. Merlin pretends to
use the flint, then...]
MERLIN (whisper)
Bel onbryne.
[The fire lights instantly. Lancelot looks at him. Merlin makes a cute shrug face.
Lancelot grins in amusement. The knights stand around the fire with torches.
Percival looks at the fire, then at Arthur.]
SIR PERCIVAL
It won't get us through the night.
ARTHUR
'will keep the area safe for a while.
[Later, Gwaine throws a log on the fire.]
SIR GWAINE
The last one. Maybe we should draw lots, see who gets some more.
ARTHUR
I'll go.
SIR LANCELOT
You'll need help.
MERLIN
I'll go with him.
ARTHUR
You sure you're the right person?
MERLIN
Well, since when have you known how to collect firewood?
[The knights chuckle. Lancelot watches as they walk off. Merlin collects firewood
while Arthur stands guard with a torch. A Dorocha charges them from behind.]
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Arthur drops the torch to tackle Merlin out of the way. They fall off the wall.]
ARTHUR
Let's go!
[They rush through some passages and close a door behind them. The Dorocha seems to
lose them. The knights back at the fire pit shuffle around anxiously.]
SIR LANCELOT
They should've been back by now.
SIR ELYAN
Someone needs to go and look for them.
SIR PERCIVAL
We've only got one torch between us.
[Lancelot grabs the torch and starts walking off.]
SIR LANCELOT
Who's coming?
[Elyan follows, then the other knights. Gwaine grabs his sword belt and puts it on
as he follows. Arthur and Merlin hide behind a corner in one of the fortress rooms.
Merlin ties a cloth around Arthur's injured arm. Arthur looks uncomfortable and
Merlin gives him a confused look.]
ARTHUR
It's cold.
MERLIN
Right.
ARTHUR
You're not feeling it?
MERLIN
I c...
[Merlin shrugs his shoulders and shakes his head.]
ARTHUR
You know, Merlin, you're braver than I give you credit for.
MERLIN
Really? Was that a compliment?
ARTHUR
Don't be stupid.
[Merlin chuckles and then Arthur does, too. Back in the passages, Lancelot leads
the knights through the fortress, warding off Dorochas with the torch. Back in the
hiding chamber, Merlin and Arthur listen to the screaming spirits.]
ARTHUR
All the things I've faced...I never worried about dying.
MERLIN
I don't think you should now.
ARTHUR
Sometimes you puzzle me.
MERLIN (Dragoon voice)

You never fathomed me out?
ARTHUR
No.
MERLIN
I always thought if things had been different, we'd've been good friends.
ARTHUR
Yeah.
MERLIN
That's if you hadn't been such an arrogant, pompous, dollop head.
[Arthur chuckles.]
MERLIN (cont'd)
We will defeat the Dorocha. We will, Arthur, together.
ARTHUR
Well, I appreciate that. You know, you're a brave man, Merlin. Between battles.
[Merlin chuckles.]
MERLIN
You don't know how many times I've saved your life.
ARTHUR
Ha. If I ever become king, I'm gonna have you made court jester.
[They chuckle. Then they hear the Dorocha. In the passages, Lancelot and the
knights continue the search. Back in the hiding chamber, Merlin and Arthur wait.]
ARTHUR
They say the darkest hour is just before the dawn.
MERLIN
Feels pretty dark right now.
ARTHUR
Well, it can't be long then.
[The Dorocha finds them and sweeps through the door. Arthur starts to rush out from
around the corner, but Merlin pulls him back and stands up himself, running
straight for the Dorocha.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, no!
[Merlin jumps at the Dorocha. It catches him in the chest, stops him mid-air and
throws him back against the stone wall. Lancelot enters and wards off the Dorocha
with the torch, then hands it to Percival and turns to Arthur.]
SIR LANCELOT
What happened?
[Arthur and Lancelot go to Merlin. They turn him over. He's frosted over like the
corpses they found.]
----------------------------------------------------
Note: incantations provided by
oriane_34w4
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September 24 2011, 15:54
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BBC Merlin: 4x02 The Darkest Hour, Part Two
KILGHARRAH
[01:21, CRUMBLING FORTRESS - DAY]

[Merlin lies limply against the fire pit. Lancelot tends to him.]
ARTHUR
We have to get him back to Gaius.
SIR LEON
And abandon the quest?
ARTHUR
He saved my life, I won't let him die.
SIR LEON
Sire, if we don't get to the Isle of the Blessed, hundreds more will perish.
[Arthur looks back at Merlin.]
SIR LANCELOT
Let me take him.
ARTHUR
Carrying a wounded man alone, it will take you two or three days to reach Camelot.
SIR LANCELOT
Not if I go through the Valley of the Fallen Kings. You cannot give up on the
quest.
SIR LEON
Sire, he's right.
[Arthur nods. Sir Percival carries the paralysed Merlin to his horse. Arthur ties
Merlin to the horse.]
ARTHUR
This is my fault and I'm sorry.
MERLIN
Take me with you, please.
ARTHUR
You would die, Merlin.
MERLIN
But you don't understand. Please, Arthur.
ARTHUR
Do you ever do as you're told?
MERLIN
I have to come with you.
ARTHUR
Merlin--
SIR LANCELOT
We need to leave.
[Arthur squeezes Merlin's shoulder and sends him off with Lancelot.]
ARTHUR
Go.
[Arthur looks after them worriedly as they leave. They ride through the woods and
enter the Valley of the Fallen Kings.]
--
[03:23, FOREST - EVENING]
[Arthur and the knights ride toward the Isle of the Blessed. They walk to make
camp.]
SIR GWAINE
Can you hear that?
SIR LEON
Bees.
SIR GWAINE
Food.
[Gwaine approaches the honey tree and takes off a glove.]
SIR LEON
Trying to get us killed?
SIR GWAINE
We're riding to our death anyway.
[Gwaine puts his hand in the tree and Leon approaches a gloomy Arthur.]
SIR LEON
It's good to give the horses a rest. You're quiet.
ARTHUR
That's what happens after three days of listening to Gawain.
[Leon smiles/chuckles.]
SIR LEON
You did the right thing, you know. Merlin couldn't have continued with us.
ARTHUR
I should've saved him.
[Gwaine makes some grunting noises as he rushes away from the honey tree, swatting
at the bees now attacking him. He runs off into the woods to escape the bees.
Arthur rolls his eyes and Leon chuckles.]
SIR LEON
If anyone can get Merlin back to Camelot, Lancelot can.
--
[04:19, VALLEY OF THE FALLEN KINGS - NIGHT]
[Lancelot carries Merlin to a stream in the woods; he lays him next to it and
covers Merlin with his Camelot cloak. Lancelot takes off his gloves to gather water
from the stream and notices something about the water. He's stares in shock as
Merlin puts his hand to the water and something shimmers through Merlin's skin.]
VILLIA
Lancelot. Lancelot.
[Drops of water rise up from the stream.]
VILLIA
Lancelot.
[A woman's face appears in the drop of water.]

VILLIA
We bear you no harm. We wish only to help.
SIR LANCELOT
What are you?
VILLIA
We are Villia, spirits of the brooks and streams. The tear in the veil has upset
the balance of the world. Good spirits as well as bad roam freely. But this
perilous state cannot continue for long.
SIR LANCELOT
Prince Arthur is riding to the Isle of the Blessed. He intends to heal the veil.
VILLIA
He will need help. From both of you.
SIR LANCELOT
My friend is sick. I need to get him to Camelot.
VILLIA
Merlin is stronger than you give him credit for. The young warlock has great power
and a future that has been written since the dawn of time. Do not worry. Even now,
my sisters begin to heal him.
[Lancelot looks at Merlin. Merlin's is glowing all over. Lancelot smiles.]
VILLIA
You are tired. You must rest.
SIR LANCELOT
I need to find shelter.
VILLIA
You are safe here.
SIR LANCELOT
The Dorocha.
VILLIA
We will stay with you and protect you through the night.
[Lancelot smiles in awe as the water drops around him become tiny lights.]
--
[06:34, TUNNELS OF ANDOR - NIGHT]
[Arthur and the knights reach the tunnels and dismount.]
ARTHUR
By dawn we'll be on the other side of the mountains.
SIR GWAINE
You can't be serious. These tunnels are crawling with Wildren.
ARTHUR
These tunnels will take days off our journey.
SIR GWAINE
If we make it out alive.
ARTHUR
We'll cover ourselves in Gaia berries.
SIR GWAINE
Ha. Sounds great.
ARTHUR
It's your choice, Gwaine. Wildren or Dorocha.
SIR ELYAN
I know which I'd rather go for.
SIR LEON
Me too.
[Just as they're about to enter the tunnels, Gwaine hears a Dorocha. It waits for
him to turn his back and then launches at him. Percival tackles Gwaine out of the
way.]
SIR GWAINE
Never knew you cared.
[Percival makes an "Ugh, please" face. Arthur comes back out of the tunnels with a
torch. The Dorocha comes back.]
ARTHUR
Quick!
[They retreat into the tunnels. Because apparently Dorocha prefer the outdoors.]
--
[07:43, TUNNELS OF ANDOR - NIGHT]
SIR PERCIVAL
Remind me again why we're wearing this disgusting paste.
[Arthur's response sounds bored, like he's repeating something he learned at

school.]
ARTHUR
Wildren are completely blind, they rely totally on their sense of smell. Gaia
berries will mask our scent.
SIR GWAINE
What are the chances of us getting through here without seeing a Wildren?
ARTHUR
None.
[Gwaine stumbles across a skull. He rushes from the back of the line to follow just
behind Arthur. They hear a piggy squeal.]
ARTHUR
Shh!
[Arthur and Leon toss their torches and stamp them out. They all hide behind a
length of rock, then peak their heads over the ledge. Two Wildren approach. They
duck down when one gets close.]
ARTHUR
Keep still. Don't even breathe.
[The Wildren wanders off. Apparently Wildren are totally deaf, too. Gwaine smiles
in relief. His smile fades when the others watch him wide-eyed. A Wildren sniffs
him, pins him hard against the rock. Gwaine gets annoyed and kills it.]
ARTHUR
You fool.
SIR GWAINE
It's dead.
ARTHUR
That one is, yes. They hunt in packs.
[They hear other piggy squeals.]
SIR ELYAN
Run.
[They bolt through the tunnels, chased by Wildren.]
--
[09:57, CAMELOT, MAIN SQUARE - NIGHT]
[Peasants desperately try to push through the city gate as guards close it on them.
Gwen watches from a castle window.]
GAIUS (to a guard)

We need more stretchers. And sheets, as many sheets as we can find.
GWEN
Gaius. The guards were under orders to shut the city gates at dusk.
GAIUS
Who's orders?
GWEN
Lord Agravaine's.
--
[10:15, COUNCIL CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Gaius opens the chamber doors and Gwen follows him in. Agravaine sits with the
councilmen.]
AGRAVAINE
Gaius. Have you come to join us?
GAIUS
Why have you closed the city gates?
AGRAVAINE
We have limited resources, Gaius. As much as I would like to, we simply cannot feed
and water the entire kingdom.
GAIUS
Surely the people have a right to be protected.
AGRAVAINE
I would be putting Camelot in danger. Starvation, disease. You of all people must
understand, Gaius. The gates will remain shut until we are free of the evil that
plagues us.
[Seeing no alternative, Gaius turns to leave.]
AGRAVAINE
Now, gentlemen, where were we? [?] reason to--
GWEN
My lords.
[The councilmen stare at her.]
GWEN
May I be granted permission to address the court?
AGRAVAINE
Guinevere.
[Agravaine makes an inviting gesture and she steps up to the table.]
GWEN
Prince Arthur taught me long ago that every citizen of Camelot is important. He
would never stand by and let them suffer. He would help them if he could, and we
must do the same.
AGRAVAINE
I feel the pain as much as you, but we don't have a choice. If we keep letting
people in, our food will run out within days.
GWEN
You are wrong.
[The councilmen stare at Gwen.]
AGRAVAINE
Perhaps you would enlighten me.
GWEN
Those outside the gates are landowners, farmers. For days the refugees have been
bartering their wares with the townsfolk in return for the safety of their hearths.
They bring with them far more than they take.
AGRAVAINE
But how long before these wares run out?
GWEN
Three days ago, Prince Arthur embarked on a quest to rid us of these creatures. At
worst, we have another three before he reaches his goal. Or do you think he will
fail?
AGRAVAINE
Of course not.
GEOFFREY OF MONMOUTH
Sire, she's right.
AGRAVAINE
Very well. Reopen the gates.
[Gwen curtsies and backs out. Agravaine smiles, then broods.]
--
[12:33, VALLEY OF THE FALLEN KINGS - MORNING]
[Lancelot wakes to find Merlin gone.]
SIR LANCELOT
Merlin. Merlin?!
MERLIN
Shh!
[Merlin's standing on a couple of rocks in the stream with a stick and a couple of
fish on a string. Lancelot watches Merlin spearing the water with the stick. Merlin
stops and holds up the fish.]
MERLIN
Breakfast.
SIR LANCELOT
Merlin, what...? Why are you...?
MERLIN
What?
SIR LANCELOT
You're meant to be...dying.
MERLIN
Sorry. Here.
[Merlin hands him the spearing stick.]
SIR LANCELOT
What's that for?
MERLIN
You look like you're going to fall over.
[Lancelot swings the stick at Merlin. Merlin ducks.]
MERLIN
Yeah, not as quick as Arthur.
SIR LANCELOT
Oh yeah?
MERLIN
Come on. We need to catch up with the others.
[Merlin takes the stick and starts walking toward the horses.]
SIR LANCELOT
No. You're going back to Camelot.
MERLIN
You might be.
SIR LANCELOT
Merlin.
MERLIN
Say hello to Gaius for me!
SIR LANCELOT
Merlin!
[Merlin stops and turns around. Lancelot picks up his cloak and sword.]
MERLIN
Arthur can't finish this without us.
SIR LANCELOT
Arthur's right about you. You don't ever do as you're told.
MERLIN
Nope.
--
[13:31, STREAM IN THE WOODS - MORNING]
[Arthur and the knights wash off the Gaia berries in the stream.]
SIR LEON
They need to rest, sire. Even Gwaine's gone quiet.
ARTHUR
Sounds like a good reason to keep going.
--
[Agravaine rides through the woods. Morgana broods in a chair by the fire.]
AGRAVAINE
My lady?
[Agravaine enters.]
MORGANA
What news of the mighty Camelot?
AGRAVAINE
As we planned. The city's falling to rack and ruin.
MORGANA
And Arthur?
AGRAVAINE
Last we heard, he'd made it past Aelbeth.
MORGANA
Will we never be rid of him?
AGRAVAINE
Patience, my lady. Even if he makes it to the Isle, the outcome will still be the
same.
MORGANA
Then what brings you here so early?
[Morgana watches Agravaine.]
MORGANA
Something's wrong.
AGRAVAINE
A minor irritant. Guinevere. She takes it upon herself to speak out against me.
MORGANA
She's dangerous.
AGRAVAINE
Well, she's a servant. A spirited one, perhaps, but a servant nonetheless.
MORGANA
No, you're wrong.
[Morgana stands up, provoked.]
MORGANA
I have dreamt the future and, in it, that servant sits upon my throne. I would
rather drown in my own blood than see that day.
AGRAVAINE
Then we must make sure it never comes.
MORGANA
I couldn't agree more. We must make sure she never sees another dawn.
--
[Gwen tends to Uther.]
UTHER
Where's Arthur?
GWEN
I am unsure.
UTHER
Where is he?
GWEN
The prince is on a hunting trip, sire.
UTHER
When will he be back?
GWEN
In a few days. Is there something you need?
[Uther shakes his head in his dreamy state. Gwen leaves him to find Agravaine
leaning on Uther's table.]
AGRAVAINE
Your devotion to the king is most impressive. There is something I would like to
discuss. I wish to apologize. Yesterday I feel I let the prince down. I am grateful
that you spoke out.
GWEN
I did not mean to be discourteous, my lord.
AGRAVAINE
Well, you weren't. Not in the least.
[Agravaine smiles.]
AGRAVAINE
Gwen, if you would permit, I would be grateful to seek your advice.
[Gwen's jaw drops.]
AGRAVAINE
You understand the people.
GWEN
I am not sure I--
AGRAVAINE
If nothing else, I know that you will be honest with me.
[Gwen smiles at the truth of that statement.]
AGRAVAINE
It's not appropriate to talk now. Perhaps...this evening. You could come to my
chambers.
[Gwen starts to protest.]
AGRAVAINE
Please, Guinevere, these are dark times. I'm gonna need help if I'm to guide us
through them.
GWEN
Very well.
[Agravaine smiles.]
AGRAVAINE
Thank you.
[Gwen smiles back as Gaius enters. Agravaine exits.]
GAIUS
Is everything all right?
GWEN
Yes. He wishes to speak with me later. I think he means to seek my council.
[Gaius nods. Gwen smiles as she exits. Gaius watches her leave with pensive
concern.]
--
[16:56, HUNTER'S LODGE - EVENING]
[Merlin and Lancelot ride up to a lodge in the woods. They enter to find animals
hanging from the ceiling.]
SIR LANCELOT
Hello?
[They find the hunter sitting dead at his own table. They lie him down and cover
him with a blanket.]
MERLIN
We can't stay here.
SIR LANCELOT
There's nowhere else, Merlin. We'll make a fire. It will keep us safe and dry. And
there's more than enough fuel to get us through the night.
MERLIN
Yep. Bel onbryne.
[Merlin starts a fire in the grate.]
MERLIN
I'm not entirely useless, you know.
--
[CAMELOT- EVENING]
[Morgana magically opens a gate outside Camelot and carries a torch as she climbs
the stairs into the city.]
GUARD 1 (distant)
Get the other side.
GUARD 2 (distant)
Yes, sir.
[Morgana continues down a dark corridor.]
GUARD 3
Halt.
[Morgana throws the guard to his death without speaking or turning around.]
--
[18:52, AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gwen sits at the table as Agravaine pours her a glass of wine.]
AGRAVAINE
But do the people feel safe?
[Gwen remains silent.]
AGRAVAINE
You can speak honestly.
GWEN
No, they do not.
AGRAVAINE
Go on.
GWEN
They're frightened. Night after night, they've seen their friends, their parents,
their children all snatched cruelly from them and they don't know who will be next.
AGRAVAINE
What can I do to reassure them?
GWEN
Show courage. Shutting the gates last night told them you were as terrified as they
were. It's like a horse and its rider. If the people sense your fear, they will not
trust you.
AGRAVAINE
I am grateful for your advice.
[Agravaine stands behind her and places his hands on her chair back.]
AGRAVAINE
You have a wise head on your shoulders, Guinevere.
[Agravaine leans forward and rests his arms on the back of her chair and Gwen
starts getting creeped out. Agravaine reaches his fingers slightly forward as if to
touch her (strangle her?), then thinks better of it and takes his arms off the
chair back.]
AGRAVAINE
I've kept you long enough.
[Gwen stands eagerly.]
GWEN
And I must see to the king.
AGRAVAINE
Don't concern yourself with that. I will ensure he's well looked after.
[Agravaine precedes her to the door and opens it for her.]
AGRAVAINE
It has been a long day. I'll have my guards walk you safely home.
[The guards appear outside the door.]
GWEN
Thank you.
[Gwen curtsies and he steps aside to let her exit. He closes the door with a
brooding look.]
--
[20:22, STREETS OF CAMELOT - NIGHT]
[The guards carry torches as they escort Gwen home. Morgana watches them from
above.]
MORGANA
Hleap on baec.
[Morgana raises her arm and throws Gwen and the guards backwards. Morgana smirks at
her unconscious victims.]
--
[20:47, WOODS - NIGHT]
[Arthur and the knights sit and stand guard around a campfire. Elyan approached
Arthur on watch.]
SIR ELYAN
Seen anything?
SIR ELYAN
Do you know what we're going to face on the Isle of the Blessed?
[Arthur nods.]
SIR ELYAN
Do you want to tell me?
ARTHUR
The burden's mine and mine to bear alone.
SIR ELYAN
Look around, Arthur.
[Elyan motions for Arthur to look at the nights around the campfire.]
SIR ELYAN
We would fight a thousand armies with our bare hands for you. We're never alone. We
stand together. Come on, I'll take over.
[He reaches his hand out to take Arthur's torch.]
SIR ELYAN
You need some rest.
[Arthur hands him the torch and puts a hand on Elyan's shoulder.]
ARTHUR
Thank you.
[Arthur pats Elyan on the back as he walks toward the campfire. Then they all hear
Dorocha and gather close the fire.]
--
[22:01, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius enters to find Uther asleep on top of the bed sheets and no candles lit.]
GAIUS
Gwen?
--
[22:14, STREETS OF CAMELOT - NIGHT]
[Gaius walks down the street carrying a torch.]
GAIUS
Gwen?
[Gaius hears a Dorocha as he approaches Gwen's house and finds a frozen-faced
guard. Then he sees Gwen lying near the guard. Gaius checks Gwen's face; she's
still warm. A Dorocha charges Gaius from behind, but he fends it off with the
torch.]
--
[23:19, HUNTER'S LODGE - NIGHT]
MERLIN
You don't have to continue on this journey with me, you know.
SIR LANCELOT (chuckles)

Try and stop me.
[Lancelot leans forward and pours Merlin another drink.]
MERLIN
Why? Because you're a knight, you feel honour bound?
SIR LANCELOT
You wouldn't understand. It doesn't make any sense to me either.
MERLIN
Gwen?
SIR LANCELOT
I made her a vow I would keep Arthur safe.
MERLIN
You don't have to worry. I'll keep him safe.
SIR LANCELOT
I made a vow, Merlin.
MERLIN
Do you still think about her?
SIR LANCELOT
No. Arthur's...a better man than me.
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
SIR LANCELOT
Why? He loves her and...she's happy.
--
[24:30, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius tends to Gwen's head wound as she lies on a sickbed.]
GWEN
I remember the guards walking me to my door. And then...nothing.
GAIUS
Just a surface wound. You were very lucky.
GWEN
Everyone talks about the coldness, but I don't feel cold at all.
GAIUS
You weren't attacked by the Dorocha, Gwen.
GWEN
Then what? Gaius?
GAIUS
I fear someone wanted to do you harm.
GWEN
Why?
GAIUS
I don't know.
GWEN
Well, surely if they did, they'd have done a better job.
GAIUS
Maybe. But cold-blooded murder is suspicious. Better to leave you to the Dorocha.
--
[25:17, HUNTER'S LODGE - NIGHT]
[The candles and fire are all blown out as Merlin and Lancelot sleep. Merlin senses
a Dorocha slip by and wakes up. The Dorocha charges.]
MERLIN
Lancelot!
[Merlin throws the last of his alcohol into the dying grate fire and it bursts into
flames in front of the Dorocha allowing Merlin and Lancelot to run outside into the
pitch dark.]
MERLIN (dragon tongue)

O drakon, e male so ftengometta tesd ‘hup’ anankes!
[The Dorocha chases them through the dark woods until a fireball shoots out of the
sky and gets rid of them. Lancelot draws his sword, stunned by the appearance of
the dragon. Kilgharrah flames another Dorocha and lands in front of them in a
clearing. Lancelot steps forward to strike the dragon, but Merlin holds out a hand
to stop him.]
MERLIN
It's alright. It's alright.
[Merlin looks up at Kilgharrah and gives him a little bow.]
MERLIN
Thank you.
KILGHARRAH (angry)
Who is your friend?
SIR LANCELOT
I'm Lancelot.
KILGHARRAH
Of course. Sir Lancelot, the bravest and most noble of them all.
SIR LANCELOT
I'm not sure that's true.
KILGHARRAH
We shall see. For now, there are more pressing things at hand. The Dorocha cannot
be allowed to remain in this world. The sundered veil must be restored.
SIR LANCELOT
We're on our way to the Isle of the Blessed to help Arthur heal it.
KILGHARRAH
Indeed. But at what price?
MERLIN
I know that the spirit world demands a sacrifice.
KILGHARRAH
It demands nothing. It is the Cailleach, the gatekeeper to the spirit world who
asks such a price.
MERLIN
And there is no other way?
KILGHARRAH
There is not.
MERLIN
Arthur intends to sacrifice himself to heal the veil. It is my destiny to protect
him; you taught me that.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin, you must not do this.
MERLIN
Then I have no choice. I must take his place.
KILGHARRAH
From the moment I met you, I saw something that was invisible. Now it is there for
all to see.
MERLIN
A lot of what you see, old friend, is what you taught me.
KILGHARRAH
It will be an empty world without you, young warlock.
[Kilgharrah gives Merlin an affectionate look and then flies off.]
--
[28:35, WOODS - MORNING]
SIR LANCELOT
When we get to the Isle of the Blessed, do you really intend to sacrifice yourself?
MERLIN
What do you want me to say?
SIR LANCELOT
I look at you and I wonder about myself. Would I knowingly give up my life for
something?
MERLIN
You have to have a reason. Something you care about. Something that's more
important than anything.
[Merlin nudges his horse into a gallop. Lancelot thinks for a moment before
following. They stop at the top of a hill and find smoke rising from another
abandoned fortress ahead.]
SIR LANCELOT
Looks like someone beat us to it.
MERLIN
Bandits?
[Lancelot tilts his head as a "Maybe."]
MERLIN
Think we'll make it before nightfall?
SIR LANCELOT
There's only one way to find out. Ya!
[They gallop towards the fortress.]
--
[29:43, FORTRESS - NIGHT]
[Arthur and the knights sit around a campfire. Gwaine takes off his boots and
proceeds to take off his socks. Elyan and Leon gag at the smell.]
SIR EYLAN
Has something died?
SIR GWAINE
Why am I always the butt?
SIR LEON
Can't think.
[Leon and Elyan get up and join Percival and Arthur on the other side of the
campfire.]
SIR GWAINE
Pick on Percival.
SIR PERCIVAL
Why me?
SIR ELYAN
He washes.
SIR LEON
And he doesn't set fire to his socks.
SIR GWAINE
Ugh! No!
[Gwaine snatches his socks from the fire and tries to put them out. The other
knights grin.]
ARTHUR
Quiet.
[They hear a gate open in the distance and draw their swords, including barefoot
Gwaine. They hold their defensive stance until Lancelot steps into the light.]
ARTHUR
Lancelot? How's Merlin?
SIR LANCELOT
Bad news. He's still alive.
[Lancelot grins and steps aside as Merlin enters. Arthur chuckles in relief.]
SIR ELYAN
Merlin!
[Hugs all around. Arthur shakes hands with Lancelot and gives Merlin a shoulder
squeeze.]
ARTHUR
Good to see you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Yeah. It's good to see you too.
[31:03, Merlin and Arthur eat as they lounge by the fire while the others sleep.]
MERLIN
It's going to be fine. Everything will be alright.
ARTHUR
I'm just tired.
MERLIN
You don't have to sacrifice yourself.
ARTHUR
To save my people.
MERLIN
I will take your place.
ARTHUR (shakes head)

Merlin.
MERLIN
What is the life of a servant compared to that of a prince?
ARTHUR
Well, a good servant's hard to come by.
MERLIN
I'm not that good.
ARTHUR
True.
[Merlin walked right into that one.]
ARTHUR
One thing. Look after Guinevere, I want her to be happy in her life. She deserves
that.
MERLIN
Don't worry. I'll make sure.
[By sacrificing myself, you twit.]
--
[32:12, SEAS OF MEREDOR - MORNING]
ARTHUR
The Isle of the Blessed.
[They take the ferryman's boat to the isle and hear some screeching along the way.]
--
[32:47, ISLE OF THE BLESSED - DAY]
[They step onto the isle and the screeching gets louder.]
SIR LEON
What is that?
[They all draw their swords.]
SIR GWAINE
I really hope I'm wrong.
[A wyvern flies down at them.]
ARTHUR
Wyvern!
[More wyverns attack. Percival falls to the ground as he gets slashed.]
SIR PERCIVAL
You're right!
[Merlin crouches down to hide his face and whispers.]
MERLIN (dragon tongue) (whisper)

s’enthend’ apakhorein nun epello!
[Merlin stands up, his eyes glow, and the wyverns fly off.]
SIR GWAINE
See? That's how you deal with them.
ARTHUR
We need to keep moving.
[They enter another passage and more wyverns fly overhead.]
SIR LEON
Sire, you must go on! We'll fend them off!
[Leon, Percival, and Elyan remain outside to handle the wyverns.]
SIR GWAINE
Good luck.
--
[33:55, ISLE OF THE BLESSED ALTAR - DAY]
[Arthur leads Merlin, Gwaine, and Lancelot toward the altar stone. Gwaine is the
only one who doesn't understand what the others are all planning to do.]
CAILLEACH
It is not often we have visitors.
ARTHUR
Put an end to this. I demand you heal the tear between the two worlds.
CAILLEACH
It was not I who created this horror. Why should it be I that stops it?
MERLIN
Because innocent people are dying.
CAILLEACH
Indeed.
[Cailleach laughs maniacally. Gwaine charges her with his sword raised. She throws
him back with magic, knocking him out.]
CAILLEACH
Is this the best you can do?
ARTHUR
I know what you want.
CAILLEACH
Do you? And are you willing to let me have it?
ARTHUR
I'm prepared to pay whatever price is necessary.
[Cailleach motions for Arthur to come to her. Arthur walks determinedly toward
her.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Forb fleoghe.
[Merlin's spell stops Arthur and throws him backwards, knocking him unconscious for
the 23rd time. Cailleach looks at Merlin and they both approach the altar stone.]
CAILLEACH
So, Emrys, you choose to challenge me after all. Will you give yourself to the
spirits to save your prince?
MERLIN
It is my destiny.
CAILLEACH
Perhaps. But your time among men is not yet over, Emrys, even if you want it to be.
[Merlin is confused. Cailleach looks at the tear in the veil and Merlin follows her
gaze. Lancelot is standing at the brink. He looks back at Merlin with a smile and
walks into the shrieking veil.]
MERLIN
No! No! No! No!
[The veil closes.]
MERLIN
N-no.
[Merlin stands alone with the unconscious Gwaine and Arthur.]
--
[37:11, COUNCIL CHAMBERS/MAIN COURTYARD - DAY]
[Arthur enters a full court. Arthur places a Camelot cape and sword on a pyre in
the courtyard.]
ARTHUR (voice over)

I want to pay tribute to Sir Lancelot. We owe him a great debt. It is not just his
deed that we'll never forget. It's his courage. His compassion.
[Merlin brings Arthur a torch for the pyre.]
ARTHUR (voice over)

His unselfish heart.
[Arthur tosses the torch on the pyre. Arthur continues to address the court in the
council chambers.]
ARTHUR
He was the most noble knight I'll ever know. He gave his life for all of us.
[Gwen cries as she watches the pyre burning. The sword begins to steam in the
flames. Arthur takes Gwen's hand.]
GWEN
He didn't sacrifice himself for Camelot. I asked him to look after you and he
promised me with his life. He was true to his word.
[Arthur thinks over what she just said, then places a comforting hand on her
shoulder and leaves her by the pyre. Gwen continues to weep by the pyre, alone in
the courtyard.]
--
[Morgana screams and smashes some of her possessions.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur was lucky.
MORGANA
And Guinevere?
AGRAVAINE
It was only by chance that Gaius found her.
MORGANA
No, you're wrong. We were not thwarted by luck, it was Emrys!
AGRAVAINE
Emrys?
MORGANA
The Cailleach warned me about him. She said he was my destiny and my doom. It was
he that thwarted us, I'm sure of it.
AGRAVAINE
So what's to be done?
MORGANA
As long as he exists, I will never gain what is rightfully mine.
[Morgana turns to Agravaine.]
MORGANA
You must help me find this Emrys. And destroy him.
[Morgana steps away and Agravaine takes in a breath.]
--
[40:21, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin hears the physician's chamber door open as he sits in his room.]
AGRAVAINE
Gaius.
GAIUS
How can I be of assistance?
AGRAVAINE
You're a man of great knowledge and wisdom.
GAIUS (scoffs)
Knowledge, perhaps.
AGRAVAINE
Have you ever come across a sorcerer called Emrys?
[Gaius pauses and Merlin listens at the door.]
GAIUS
No. Doesn't sound familiar.
AGRAVAINE
Hm. Well, if you do hear mention of the name.
[Agravaine turns to leave.]
GAIUS
I'll be sure to tell you.
AGRAVAINE
It will not go unrewarded.
[Agravaine chuckles on his way out. Merlin comes out of his bed chamber.]
GAIUS
There's only one person who could've heard that name. Morgana. We know her powers
are growing. She, too, must have seen the Cailleach.

But Agravaine...
GAIUS
I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems. And, don't forget, he has every reason
to despise Uther. We must beware, Merlin. Morgana can never know the truth. She
must never know who you really are.
----------------------------------------------------
Note: incantations and dragon tongue provided by
oriane_34w4
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October 22 2011, 17:41
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BBC Merlin: 4x03 The Wicked Day
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, EXT. CAMELOT, MAIN SQUARE - DAY 1]
[The square is a hive of activity. A caravan of colourful carts is being unloaded
by acrobats, dancers, jugglers, strong men, and jesters. An acrobat back flips into
her partner's arms. Jugglers practice their routine, sending batons high into the
air.]
--
[00:23, INT/EXT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS / CAMELOT, MAIN SQUARE - DAY 1]
[Merlin and Arthur look down into the Main Square. Merlin's impressed, Arthur less
so.]
MERLIN
Oh! Did you see that?
ARTHUR
It's a man throwing sticks in the air.
[Merlin takes in Arthur's mood.]
MERLIN
What's wrong?
[Arthur pulls a face.]
MERLIN
It's your birthday. A huge feast is being held in your honour. You've got dancers,
jugglers and acrobats to entertain you. It must be a terrible burden.
ARTHUR
Perhaps I'm less easily impressed than you.
MERLIN
I'm really looking forward to it.
ARTHUR
Because you have the mind of a child.
[Arthur heads out.]
MERLIN (to himself)

And yet I'm still more intelligent than you.
[Arthur doesn't look round as he calls out...]
ARTHUR
I heard that.
[Merlin grins and exits.]
--
[00:56, INT. KING'S PALACE, BANQUET HALL - DAY 1]
[Two acrobats have set up a circular board, divided into brightly coloured
segments. The Gleeman passes through the Banquet Hall, casting a critical eye over
the preparations, checking everything is as it should be. He hears a sound and
looks round to see objects flying out of a deep trunk.]
THE GLEEMAN
You have misplaced something Geldred?
[A head appears, peering out over the rim of the trunk. This is Geldred.]
GELDRED
Our special gift to the Prince. I cannot find it anywhere.
[Geldred starts to search again...]
THE GLEEMAN
Geldred...
[The Gleeman fixes him with a piercing stare. It is suddenly apparent that The
Gleeman is a man to be feared. He pulls slim box from his tunic...]
THE GLEEMAN
I took the liberty of ensuring their safe passage myself.
[The Gleeman opens the box to reveal three sharp throwing daggers...]
THE GLEEMAN
We must make sure this is a celebration the young Prince will never forget.
[The Gleeman throws one of the knives through the air. It pierces the centre of the
board with Terrifying precision.]
[TITLES]
--
[01:55, INT. KING'S PALACE (UTHER'S CHAMBERS) - DAY 1]
[Uther appears weak and withdrawn. Reveal Arthur seated by him. Arthur launches
into his usual routine...]
ARTHUR
The Court discussed the annual levy this morning. The council has suggested we
raise it, but I feel the people are already overburdened...
UTHER
We should not talk about matters of court today.
[Arthur's surprised by Uther's response. Uther fixes Arthur with an emotional look.
Arthur's increasingly concerned...]
ARTHUR
Father?
[Uther smiles softly...]
UTHER
You think I would ever forget that today is the anniversary of your birth?
[Arthur's both relieved and touched.]
UTHER
I take it there are plans for suitable celebrations this evening?
ARTHUR
A feast, and, erm, some entertainment. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow.
UTHER
Nonsense. You think I would miss my son's anniversary?
[Arthur's surprised and touched. Uther gives him a small smile.]
--
[02:43, INT. KING'S PALACE (BANQUET HALL) - NIGHT 1]
[The Banquet Hall is packed. Knights and courtiers are tucking into a feast. The
Hall is filled with entertainment... Everyone's enjoying the show, wowed by the
skills of the performers. Arthur takes in Uther smiling. He catches his eye. Uther
raises his goblet. Arthur returns the gesture with a smile. He's thrilled to see
his father in such good spirits... In the midst of the performers, stands The
Gleeman. He bows at the end of the act. All eyes focus on The Gleeman as a hush
descends over the Hall. The Gleeman looks out over the Hall.]
THE GLEEMAN
I require a volunteer...
[The Gleeman's steps forward and sets his eyes on Arthur...]
THE GLEEMAN
Prince Arthur. What better or more fitting occasion for you to demonstrate your
legendary bravery?
[Arthur's caught out, put on the spot.]
THE GLEEMAN
Do you accept the challenge?
[Arthur feels the eyes of the courtiers and knights awaiting his decision. Arthur
stands...]
ARTHUR
Of course.
[There's a round of applause as Arthur makes his way through the Hall. Merlin
intercepts Arthur. They have a whispered exchange...]
MERLIN
Is this safe...?
ARTHUR
It's knife throwing, Merlin. Of course it's not safe. I could hardly refuse his
challenge.
[Arthur sees that the eyes of the entire room are upon them and takes off his cloak
and jacket, giving them to Merlin, making an excuse to cover the true nature of
their exchange...]
[Arthur heads over to the circular board where The Gleeman waits for him. Arthur
smiles at the crowd, reassuring. Arthur places himself against the board. The
Gleeman and Geldred strap Arthur's ankles and wrists to the restraints on the
board. Arthur shoots a slightly nervous glance at The Gleeman.]
THE GLEEMAN
Do not fear, my Lord. I never miss my target.
ARTHUR
Good. Glad to hear it.
[The Gleeman pulls out an apple and turns to Arthur...]
THE GLEEMAN
May I?
ARTHUR
What?
[Before Arthur can object, The Gleeman places the apple in Arthur's mouth. The
Gleeman nods to Geldred. He gives the wheel a push and it starts to spin. The court
makes "ooh" sounds. Arthur spins on the board. It makes him feel dizzy, and a
little nauseous. Another dwarf presents the case of knives to The Gleeman. The
Gleeman holds the blade up for the crowd to see. Without even stopping to take aim,
The Gleeman suddenly turns and throws the knife at Arthur. It thuds into the board,
centimeters from Arthur's face. A huge gasp goes up, followed by a round of
applause. As he spins, Arthur eyes the knife warily. Uther is very impressed. Gwen
lets out a breath and does a *facepalm*... The Gleeman takes the next knife from
the case. The tension builds, and suddenly The Gleeman throws the knife. It flies
through the air and thuds into the board on the other side of Arthur's head.
Another round of applause. The Gleeman takes the final knife from the case. Gwen
closes her eyes and turns her head away for a moment in relief. Uther applauds
gleefully. The Gleeman waves the final knife at Uther. Uther nods permission for
him to throw it. Gwen bites her nails and looks nervously toward Arthur. Arthur's
eyes go wide as The Gleeman prepares to throw the final knife. Tension as he takes
aim... Merlin looks on. He's poised, ready to intervene magically... We go into
Merlin Time as The Gleeman throws the knife. It spins through the air in slow
motion... We hear the blade slice into something not wood and the crowd gasps and
holds its breath for a moment. The wheel slows to a stop and we see the knife stuck
straight into the apple. The hall erupts in applause. Arthur opens his eyes. Gwen
breathes a huge sigh of relief and joins the applause. Arthur sighs in relief as
well. The Gleeman takes a bow and a circus man helps Arthur down from the Wheel of
Death. Arthur tosses the apple and catches it, then shrugs back into his jacket
with Merlin's help.]
ARTHUR
See, Merlin? Nothing to worry about.
[Arthur takes a bite of the apple. Merlin chuckles as Arthur saunters off. The
Gleeman has a quiet word with Geldred...]
THE GLEEMAN (an aside)

In a few hours, the sedative on the apple will begin to take effect. The Prince
will be defenceless. Then we will strike.
[The Gleeman and Geldred watch Arthur chewing the mouthful of apple as he
celebrates with his knights.]
--
[05:25, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT ]
[The door flies open. Arthur staggers in, followed by Merlin. The sedative is
starting to take effect. Arthur's very drowsy and unsteady on his feet...]
MERLIN
You're telling me you weren't even a little bit scared?
ARTHUR
Of course I wasn't. I am a warrior. You learn to control your fear. To channel
it...
[Arthur runs into a column, staggers. Merlin catches him, stops him from falling
over. Athur rights himself and continues walking.]
MERLIN
You looked scared...
[Arthur starts to undress.]
ARTHUR
It's good to see my father enjoying himself.
[A worrying thought occurs]
ARTHUR
He looked a little quiet towards the end, though. Perhaps I should go and see him.
MERLIN
Are you sure that's a good idea? You can barely stand up.
ARTHUR
Are you saying I'm drunk?
MERLIN
No, I'm just saying I don't think you should be wandering around the palace.
ARTHUR
And why is that?
MERLIN
You're not wearing any trousers.
[Arthur looks down and sees that he is indeed not wearing trousers, then looks back
at Merlin...]
ARTHUR
Good point.
[Arthur hitches up his trousers on his way out the door.]
--
[06:07, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - NIGHT 1]
[Arthur lets out an enormous yawn, struggling to keep his eyes open as he passes
the two guards outside the doors to Uther's chambers. The Gleeman watches Arthur
disappear round the corner as Arthur heads inside.]
--
[06:21, INT. KING'S PALACE (UTHER'S CHAMBERS) - NIGHT 1]
[Uther sits in his chair, sleeping peacefully. Arthur takes the goblet from his
hand and puts it on the table. He sinks into a chair. He fights the tiredness he
feels sweeping over him, but it's a losing battle.]
--
[06:40, INT. KING'S PALACE (PHOENIX CORRIDOR) - NIGHT 1]
[The Gleeman steps over the two guards that he just took out and draws one of their
swords before heading inside.]
--
[Arthur is drifting into sleep, struggling to focus on Uther. His head lolls.
Behind Arthur, we see The Gleeman slip into the room. Arthur's oblivious... The
Gleeman creeps toward Arthur, sword drawn. Arthur catches a glimpse of The Gleeman
in the wine pitcher. Arthur draws his sword and parries the blow as The Gleeman
strikes. Arthur spills out of the chair and staggers backwards. He's sleepy and
disorientated, tries to call out, but his voice is weak...]
ARTHUR
Guards...! Guards!
[The Gleeman attacks. Arthur barely manages to fight off the attack. His sword is
knocked out of his hand and thrown across the room. Arthur collapses to his knees.
The Gleeman stands over Arthur.]
THE GLEEMAN
Goodbye, Arthur Pendragon.
[The Gleeman raises his sword, ready to strike. Arthur is powerless, fears this is
the end. But as The Gleeman strikes, the blow is blocked by a sword. Arthur and The
Gleeman sees Uther standing there, Arthur's sword in his hand...]
UTHER
It will take more than a coward like you to kill my son.
[The Gleeman strikes. Uther blocks the blow. They trade a series of ferocious
blows. But The Gleeman is skilled and Uther rusty. Uther is beaten back, and only
narrowly avoids being killed. Arthur tries to get to his feet to go to Uther's aid,
but he's too drowsy, collapses back on the floor. Uther attacks, and again The
Gleeman easily deflects the blows. He's cruelly toying with Uther, taunting him.]
THE GLEEMAN
Have you anything to say to your son before I kill him?
[Uther looks at Arthur, kneeling, helpless. Uther's paternal instincts kick in. He
attacks with a new ferocity, taking The Gleeman by surprise. Uther rains blow after
blow down on The Gleeman, forcing him back. The Gleeman's sword is knocked from his
hand. Uther prepares to deliver a fatal blow. The Gleeman suddenly draws a knife,
lunges at Uther. Uther thrusts his sword. Arthur looks on, hugely relieved. But
Uther doesn't respond. He looks weak and confused. His legs buckle.]
ARTHUR
Father?
[Arthur realises something is very wrong. Arthur catches Uther as he sinks to the
floor by the bed. Arthur's horrified to see blood staining Uther's robes. Both
Arthur and Uther have to fight to stay conscious.]
ARTHUR
No... Guards!... I'll go get help...
[Arthur goes to stand...]
UTHER
Stay with me...
ARTHUR (to Uther)

I'm here, Father... (beat, calling out) Guards! Someone! We need help!
UTHER
It is my time...
ARTHUR
No... You can't die...
UTHER
I know you will make me proud, as you always have. You will be a great King...
ARTHUR
I'm not ready...
UTHER
You-- you've been ready for some time, Arthur...
ARTHUR
No. I need you...
UTHER
I know I've not been a...a good father. I put my duty to Camelot first. I'm sorry.
ARTHUR
Don't say that...
[Uther grips Arthur's hand with all his remaining strength. ]
UTHER
But know this one thing. I always loved you...
[With that, Uther's eyes slowly close as he loses consciousness. Arthur's

horrified...]
ARTHUR
No... Father... Father!
[Arthur's appalled, but barely able to focus.]
ARTHUR
No...
--
[09:36, EXT. CAMELOT - DAY 2]
[The sun rises over Camelot.]
--
[Gaius is tending to Uther. He's unconscious, very weak - close to death. Arthur
and Gwen look on, deeply concerned. Arthur fixes Gaius with a desperate look...]
ARTHUR
Gaius. Can you treat him?
GAIUS
The blade has touched his heart. He's bleeding inside.
ARTHUR
There must be something... there must be something you can do. Please, Gaius.
GAIUS
It is just a matter of time, I'm afraid. I'm sorry, Arthur.
[Arthur can't accept that. Arthur stares at Uther, struggling to accept that he is
going to die.]
--
[10:07, INT. KING'S PALACE (COUNCIL CHAMBERS) - DAY 2]
[Sir Leon and Agravaine are reporting to Arthur, who just stares blankly,
traumatised...]
AGRAVAINE
We traced the assassin to the town of Wenham. It's in Odin's land. It seems he
hired him to kill you to avenge the death of his son.
[Arthur barely responds as he takes this in.]
SIR LEON
We believe he had an accomplice among the performers, but he has fled the city. We
have doubled the guard, should there be another attempt on your life.
[Again, Arthur barely responds. Agravaine takes in Arthur's despondent mood. He

places a comforting hand on Arthur's shoulder...]
AGRAVAINE
Everyone's thoughts are with you, Arthur. But, er, if there's anything I can do...
ARTHUR
Your support means a great deal to me. Thank you.
[Agravaine and Sir Leon head out, passing Merlin as he enters. Arthur immediately
responds to Merlin's arrival...]
ARTHUR (to Merlin)

What news of my father?
MERLIN
There is no change.
[Arthur snaps.]
ARTHUR
Well, why isn't Gaius doing something, then?
[Merlin treads softly...]
MERLIN
Because there is nothing he can do.
[Arthur knows that's true, and that is what pains him.]
--
[10:54, EXT. FOREST - DAY 2]
[Agravaine rides through the forest...]
--
[11:00, INT. MORGANA'S HUT - DAY 2]
[Agravaine bursts through the door, taking Morgana by surprise. She instinctively
spins, drawing a dagger and stands poised, ready to plunge it into Agravaine...]
AGRAVAINE
Now, is that any way to greet an old friend...?
[He gives a sly smile. Morgana lowers the dagger.]
MORGANA
I wasn't expecting you today...
AGRAVAINE
I had to see you. I bring good news. Better than we could have hoped for.
[Morgana reacts, curious.]
MORGANA
What is it?
AGRAVAINE
Uther has been mortally wounded. He's on his deathbed. Gaius says he only has days
to live.
[Morgana smiles.]
MORGANA
I hope the image of my face haunts him. (a sudden thought occurs) How is Arthur?
AGRAVAINE
Devastated. Poor boy can't think straight.
[Morgana smiles at this news.]

MORGANA
Then we must strike while he' s vulnerable.
[Morgana turns, but Agravaine grabs her arm.]
AGRAVAINE
When Uther dies, the Kingdom will be weak.
[Morgana looks pointedly down at her arm in his grabs and Agravaine lets go.]
AGRAVAINE
We must choose our moments carefully. Who knows what opportunities the coming weeks
will hold.
[They share a smile.]
--
[Arthur holds a vigil beside Uther's bed. He just stands there, staring at Uther
intensely. Gwen crosses over to the bed. She changes the dressing on Uther's wound
through the following.]
ARTHUR
I appreciate your kindness, everything you're doing for him.
GWEN
I do it for you.
[Arthur's touched. It tips him over the edge. He looks away from Gwen. She is
pained to see his hurt.]
GWEN
Oh, Arthur.
ARTHUR
I can't watch him die...There's still so much I want to say to him... He cannot
die.
[Arthur exits, leaving Gwen deeply concerned for him.]
--
[12:46, INT/EXT. KING'S PALACE (ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS) / CAMELOT (MAIN SQUARE) - NIGHT
2]
[Townspeople hold a candle-lit vigil in the Main Square. Merlin stands at the
window, staring down at them. Arthur enters, crosses over and looks out of the
window...]
ARTHUR
What's going on?
MERLIN
It's a vigil for your Father. The people wish to share their grief.
[Arthur frowns, unsettled...]
ARTHUR
Why are they behaving like he's already dead when there's still life in his body?
MERLIN
They're preparing themselves for the worst.
[Arthur steels himself.]
ARTHUR
They can give up hope, but I won't.
MERLIN
I know. It's hard to accept, and I wish it wasn't so...There really is nothing that
can be done.
[Arthur looks thoughtful, then...]
ARTHUR
There is a way to heal my father.
MERLIN
How?
[Arthur hesitates, then fixes Merlin with a poignant look.]
ARTHUR
With magic.
[Merlin's stunned as he takes this in.]
--
[13:56, INT. GAIUS' CHAMBERS - NIGHT 2]
[Merlin has just informed Gaius of Arthur's plan. Gaius looks concerned.
GAIUS
Arthur's planning on using magic?
MERLIN
He's desperate. He knows it's his only hope of healing Uther.
[Gaius fixes Merlin with a look.]
GAIUS
Merlin, please tell me you're not going to do this.
MERLIN
I'd be lying if I said 'no'.
GAIUS
You can't risk exposing yourself like this. It's too dangerous.
MERLIN
Arthur didn't recognise me last time when I was eighty years old. There's no reason
why he should this time.
GAIUS
Need I remind you the last time you used an ageing spell, you nearly had yourself
burnt at the stake.
MERLIN
It's worth the risk.
GAIUS
Do you think Uther is going to thank you for healing him with magic? He's more
likely to have you hanged.
MERLIN
Uther will never change his attitude towards magic. I know that. But if Arthur
allows it to be used to heal his father, his attitude will be changed forever. He
will see that magic can be a force for good.
GAIUS
You of all people should know that the use of powerful magic is fraught with
danger.
MERLIN
If it works, I won't have to hide any more.
GAIUS
And if it doesn't? I can't stand by and watch you do this Merlin.
MERLIN
Well, don't try and stop me, because...you can't.
[Tension Gaius and Merlin trade a poignant look...]
GAIUS
You're playing a dangerous game, Merlin.
MERLIN
I've been playing a dangerous game since the first time I set foot in Camelot.
Maybe this is my chance to change that.
--
[15:15, INT. KING'S PALACE (ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS) - NIGHT 2]
[Merlin enters. Arthur's waiting impatiently.]
ARTHUR
Well? What did Gaius say? Did he have any information?
MERLIN
He didn't know much. But he has heard of a sorcerer. An old man. He lives in the
Forest of Glaestig. Gaius thinks he may be able to help you.
ARTHUR
Will he lead me to him?
MERLIN
No, he's told me all that he knows. We will have to find him ourselves.
[Arthur takes this in and is suddenly daunted by the prospect of what he is about
to do.]
ARTHUR
If you were me, it was your father, would you use magic to save his life?
[Merlin seizes the moment, looks Arthur in the eye.]
MERLIN
Yes, I would. I would do whatever it took.
[Arthur's persuaded.]
ARTHUR
Prepare the horses. Gather supplies. We ride at first light.
--
[16:21, INT. KING'S PALACE (AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBERS) - NIGHT 2]
[Agravaine is reading something. The door opens. Arthur enters.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur. What news of your father's health?
ARTHUR
No improvement, I'm afraid.
[Arthur hesitates, unsure how to express what he needs to say. Agravaine detects
Arthur's hesitation.]
AGRAVAINE
Something's on your mind.
ARTHUR
I didn't want to go behind your back. I have decided to use magic to heal my
father.
[Agravaine's shocked - knows he must do what he can to dissuade him.]
AGRAVAINE
I would strongly advise against such a course of action.
ARTHUR
There is no other way...
AGRAVAINE
Magic caused your mother's death, Arthur. If you respect her memory, you cannot do
this.
[Arthur's moved by the argument. He's torn...]
ARTHUR
Would you see my father die?
[Agravaine's put on the spot, but of course cannot reveal his true desires...]
AGRAVAINE
Perhaps it is his time.
[Arthur cannot accept that...]
ARTHUR
Look, I know we've both suffered because of magic, but I can't stand by and let my
father die. My mind's made up.
--
[17:15, EXT. CHARCOAL-MAKER'S HUT - DAY 3]
[Merlin and Arthur ride up to a hut off the path (it is the same charcoal maker's
hut we saw in episode 2). Arthur and Merlin dismount. Arthur eyes the hut
curiously.]
ARTHUR
Are you sure this is the right place? It looks like a charcoal maker's hut.
MERLIN
The old man can hardly make a living practising magic. I think that a lot of
sorcerers are in the charcoal business.
[Arthur doesn't look entirely convinced by this as he walks up to the front door.
Merlin looks round, wondering how he's going to work the deception. Arthur realises
Merlin hasn't followed him.]
ARTHUR
Are you joining me?
MERLIN
We don't want to overwhelm him. He probably doesn't get many visitors. I'll stay
out here and watch the horses.
ARTHUR
I have never met anyone who is so scared so often. Scream like a big girl if
there's any trouble.
MERLIN
Don't worry. You'll hear me.
[Arthur turns and knocks on the door.]
--
[18:11, INT. CHARCOAL-MAKER'S HUT - DAY 3]
[Arthur opens the door and peers in.]
ARTHUR
Hello...?
[Arthur looks round the hut. There's no one there.]
--
[Merlin's hurrying into the trees when Arthur re-emerges from the hut.]
ARTHUR
There's no one here. Are you sure this is the right place?
MERLIN
I'm absolutely certain of it. I'm sure he'll be back soon.
ARTHUR
Well, how d'you know when he'll be back?
MERLIN
He's a doddery old man. He can't have gone far. If you want his help, you'll have
to just wait for him inside.
[Arthur suddenly takes in that Merlin was heading off into the trees.]
ARTHUR
Where are you sneaking off to?
[Merlin's put on the spot, thinks on his feet.]

MERLIN
I have to pee.
[Arthur's disturbed by the revelation.]
MERLIN
So unless you want to come and watch me, you should wait for him inside.
ARTHUR
Why would I want to watch you?
[Merlin gestures toward the hut. Merlin reacts, exasperated.]
MERLIN
There's the hut. I have to... Make yourself at home.
[Arthur eyes Merlin suspiciously, then turns and heads back inside the hut. Merlin
hurries behind a tree, then focuses as he starts to incant the transformation
spell...]
MERLIN
Miht dagena, bepecce me. Adeaglie pisne gast min freondum ond min feondum!
[Merlin's eyes glow.]
--
[Arthur pokes around at a few dusty old bottles and pots on the table. In doing so,
he knocks over a bottle, which in turn knocks a pot off the table. It falls to the
floor and smashes. Arthur grimaces. Oops. He quickly kicks the pieces of broken
pottery under the table to conceal them. Arthur tenses as the door opens. Arthur
reacts, stunned as Old Merlin enters...]
ARTHUR
You.
[Old Merlin looks back at Arthur...]
OLD MERLIN
So we meet again, Arthur Pendragon.
[Arthur instinctively reaches for the hilt of his sword. Old Merlin reacts to the
move...]
OLD MERLIN
You have come to kill me?
[Arthur eyes Old Merlin warily, uncertain how to proceed.]
ARTHUR
No. That wasn't my intention.
[Old Merlin walks forward and hears a crunch as he steps on some broken pot. He
looks down at it. Arthur grimaces...]
ARTHUR
I broke a pot.
OLD MERLIN
You always were a clumsy fool.
[Old Merlin hands Arthur a broom.]
ARTHUR
Excuse me?
OLD MERLIN
So if you haven't come all this way to kill me, why have you come here? I take it
you didn't come all this way just to smash my favourite pot?
ARTHUR
If I'd known who you were, I would not have come at all.
[Arthur begins to walk away. Seeing how difficult this is for Arthur, Old Merlin
helps him out.]
OLD MERLIN
I thought you may have come to ask me to use magic to heal your father?
[Arthur's taken aback.]
ARTHUR
How did you know?
OLD MERLIN
I know more than you could possibly comprehend.
ARTHUR
Well, given your hatred for my father and everything he stands for, I've clearly
had a wasted journey.
OLD MERLIN
Do not suppose that you know my mind.
[Arthur fixes Old Merlin with a desperate look.]
ARTHUR
Will you help me?
OLD MERLIN
You are asking me to save the life of a man that would have me executed.
ARTHUR
I know what I am asking of you, and you have no reason to help me. But... You're my
father's only hope. I'll give you anything you ask for. Land, gold - name your
price.
OLD MERLIN
I do not want your gold! All I have ever wanted is that people like me can live in
peace. That those who practice magic are accepted, rather than hunted. That is all
I ask.
[Arthur's unsure he can meet the demand.]
OLD MERLIN
That is the price. Your father's life.
[Arthur rises to the moment.]
ARTHUR
I give you my solemn word. When I am King, things will be different. You won't have
to live in fear.
[Old Merlin takes this in, moved by the declaration.]
OLD MERLIN
Then I will help you.
[Arthur's suddenly filled with hope. Old Merlin beams and shakes Arthur's hand.]
ARTHUR
There's no time to waste. We must ride for Camelot immediately.
[Old Merlin's caught out.]
OLD MERLIN
Now?
ARTHUR
My father weakens by the hour.
[Old Merlin blusters, searching for an excuse.]
OLD MERLIN
But I have...no horse.
ARTHUR
You can use Merlin's. He'll just have to walk back.
[Old Merlin's outraged.]
OLD MERLIN
You would make your servant walk back to Camelot? I have a good mind not to help
you.
ARTHUR
I don't care whose horse you use. We have to get to Camelot before it's too late.
OLD MERLIN (thinking on his feet)

First, I must gather some rare herbs. They are an essential part of the cure. I
will come to Camelot at nightfall. If you want my help, that is how it needs to be.
[Arthur feels he can't push any further.]
ARTHUR
I will meet you at the lower gate outside the town... Give me your word you'll be
there.
OLD MERLIN
You have my word.
[Old Merlin pauses as he attempts to figure out how to handle the transformation
back into his youthful self without being caught.]
OLD MERLIN
Now just wait here one moment.
ARTHUR
Why?
OLD MERLIN
Questions. So many questions. For once in your life, would you just do what your
told?
[Old Merlin hurries out the front door. Arthur feels chastised.]
ARTHUR
All right.
--
[Old Merlin emerges from the hut and hurries into the trees.]
--
[Arthur sniffs at a cup, puts it down and almost drops it.]
--
[Old Merlin hides behind the same tree as before and takes out a vial of liquid...
Arthur soon grows impatient of waiting. He emerges from the hut and looks round.
There's no sign of Merlin, or Old Merlin.]
ARTHUR
Merlin...?
[Silence. A crack of twigs. Arthur grows uneasy and reaches for the hilt of his
sword as he scans the trees. Merlin emerges from behind the tree, once again his
youthful self. Arthur's suspicious.]
ARTHUR
What were you doing?
[Merlin's put on the spot.]
MERLIN
Peeing.
ARTHUR (disturbed)
You mean to say you were peeing all the time I was in there?
[Merlin's forced to nod.]
MERLIN
I really had to go.
ARTHUR
There is definitely something very wrong with you.
--
[23:57, EXT. CAMELOT]
[Arthur and Merlin ride back to Camelot.]
--
[24:02, INT. GAIUS' CHAMBERS - DAY 3]
[Merlin enters. Gaius is relieved to see him.]
GAIUS
Merlin. I was worried. I thought something had happened.
[Merlin starts to search the shelves, taking various books down.]
MERLIN
Well, apart from Arthur thinking there's something very wrong with my bladder,
everything went to plan.
[Gaius looks on with concern.]
GAIUS
I take it that this means you're going through with it?
MERLIN
If I can heal Uther, Arthur has given me his word that when he is King, magic will
no longer be outlawed. This could change everything.
GAIUS
And what if something goes wrong? What of Arthur's attitude to magic then?
[Merlin stops and looks at Gaius.]
MERLIN
I live with the risk of being exposed every day. If I don't take this opportunity,
maybe I'll spend the rest of my life having to hide who I really am. Everyone's
always telling me I have this great destiny. Maybe this is it. I have to try.
[Gaius can't bring himself to argue. Merlin gathers up the books and heads into his
room. Gaius looks thoughtful as he stares after him.]
--
[Agravaine gives the news to Morgana.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur has gone to consult with a sorcerer. He intends to use magic to heal Uther.
[A determined expression comes over Morgana's face.]
MORGANA
Then we must see to it that he fails.
[Open on a small fire. Morgana sits next to it. In her hands she holds a tiny
silver charm. She casts it into the fire and she incants a spell.]
MORGANA
Seolforpræd apringe winstra, apringe wip ealle gode cræfte.
[Suddenly, the flames flare, the firelight dances in her eyes. Agravaine looks on,
in awe. Morgana takes a pair of tongs and pulls the charm from the raging fire. She
turns to Agravaine and drops the charm into his hand. He instinctively reaches out
and catches it, before realizing the danger of what he has just done. He reacts
with surprise...]
AGRAVAINE
It's cold...
MORGANA
I have bound it to the left hand path.
[He looks at the charm, impressed.]
MORGANA
You must place the charm around Uther's neck.
AGRAVAINE
What will it do to him?
MORGANA
The force of any healing magic will be reversed, and magnified tenfold. By trying
to cure his father,
Arthur will seal his fate.
[Agravaine looks grave as he takes this in.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur will never forgive himself. He'll be destroyed.
MORGANA
And a broken Prince will make a terrible King.
[Agravaine smiles.]
--
[25:49, INT. GAIUS' CHAMBERS (MERLIN'S ROOM) - DAY 3]
[Merlin looks through several books at once, but fails to find what he's looking
for. Merlin looks frustrated.]
MERLIN
I promised Arthur I could heal Uther and I can't even find the right spell.
GAIUS
That's because you're reading the wrong books. Here...
[Gaius holds out a small leather tome, which Merlin takes.]
GAIUS
Gwillem of Cambria was as mad as a coot, but there has never been a better healer.
[Merlin smiles. This means a lot to him. Merlin rushes out.]
MERLIN
Gaius. Thank you.
--
[Gwen finishes tending to Uther and gasps when she turns to find standing there.]
AGRAVAINE
It was cold today. Perhaps it's a good idea to start a fire.
GWEN
Of course.
[Gwen leaves with the medicine tray. Agravaine waits until Gwen she leaves. He
takes out the tiny silver charm, then quickly and carefully places the charm around
Uther's neck. He ensures it is carefully tucked out of sight in Uther's robes.]
AGRAVAINE (sotto)
Finally, you will get all that you deserve, old friend.
[Agravaine looks down at Uther for a poignant beat, then heads out. Go out on
Uther, lying in bed.]
--
[INT. GAIUS' CHAMBERS - NIGHT 3. UK. 44]
[Gaius reads the healing spell again.]
GAIUS
You must only four drops. Any more could be dangerous.
MERLIN
Let's hope I can remember the spell.
GAIUS
You must trust your abilities, Merlin.
ARTHUR (O.S.)
Merlin!?
[Gaius and Merlin exchange a worried look.]
MERLIN (low)
You have to get rid of him.
ARTHUR (O.S.)
Merlin!?
[Arthur enters. Gaius picks up the healing book, pretending to be in the middle of
reading.]
GAIUS
Arthur...
ARTHUR
Gaius, have you seen my useless toad of a servant?
GAIUS
I'm afraid not.
ARTHUR
Well, where on earth is he?
[Gaius is put on the spot.]
GAIUS
Have you tried the tavern?
[Arthur's enraged.]
ARTHUR
The tavern. Of course. I'm going to make him wish he was never born.
[Arthur heads out and closes the door, revealing Merlin holding some herbs. He
fixes Gaius with a look of outrage.]
MERLIN
Why did you tell him I was in the tavern?
GAIUS
It was the first thing that popped into my head.
MERLIN
Well, next time, go for the second, or the third thing that pops into your head.
Just anywhere but the tavern.
[Merlin opens the door a crack and checks the corridor, then looks back at Gaius.]
GAIUS
Good luck, Merlin.
[Merlin and Gaius share a poignant look, then Merlin heads out.]
--
[27:35, EXT. CAMELOT (STREET) - NIGHT 3]
[Arthur waits impatiently by the lower gate. He hears a sound and turns round to
see Old Merlin emerging from the darkness.]
ARTHUR
I'd started to think you weren't coming.
OLD MERLIN
I gave you my word. And here I am.
ARTHUR
Good. We must hurry.
[Arthur heads off, away from the palace, taking Old Merlin by surprise.]
OLD MERLIN
I am led to believe that the King's Palace is that way?
ARTHUR
I can hardly be seen walking through the main gate with a known sorcerer.
OLD MERLIN
So you are already going back on your word. You promised that I would no longer
have to live in fear.
ARTHUR
You're forgetting that you're yet to heal my father. When you have, I'll give you
all that I promised.
[Old Merlin takes this in. He nods. They head off.]
--
[28:19,, INT. CAMELOT (TUNNELS) - NIGHT 3]
[Arthur hurries through the dark, damp passage. He turns to see Old Merlin lagging
behind and reacts with frustration. Arthur waits for Old Merlin to catch up. When
he arrives, Old Merlin is out of breath.]
ARTHUR
Is this really as fast as you can walk?
OLD MERLIN
When you are as old as I, we will see how fast you can walk. I need to rest a
moment.
ARTHUR
There's no time.
OLD MERLIN
Then perhaps you should carry me?
ARTHUR
Fine. If it means we get there quicker, I will carry you.
[Arthur turns.]
ARTHUR
Come on.
[Old Merlin hops onto his back. Arthur heads off. Old Merlin kicks him with his
heals, as you would a horse. Arthur stops, outraged...]
ARTHUR
Did you just kick me?
OLD MERLIN
Now who's wasting time? Ya!
[Arthur staggers on, disgruntled. Old Merlin kicks Arthur again, enjoying
himself...]
OLD MERLIN
Faster. Faster.
--
[29:04, INT. KING'S PALACE (GRIFFIN CORRIDOR) - NIGHT 3]
[Arthur approaches the guards outside Uther's chambers.]
ARTHUR
You're dismissed.
[The guards hesitate, surprised by the order.]
GUARD
But, Sire. We were instructed not to leave our post.
ARTHUR
And I said you are dismissed.
GUARD
Yes, my Lord.
[The guard's head off. Arthur waits until they've disappeared round the corner,
then clears his throat. Old Merlin hobbles out of the shadows. Arthur ushers Old
Merlin into Uther's chambers, then follows him inside.
--
[Uther lies in bed, barely breathing. Arthur grows increasingly anxious as he
watches Old Merlin placing four drops of hogswart on Uther's lips. Old Merlin takes
a branch of sage and holds it over Uther. Old Merlin psyches himself up. His eyes
start to glow. Arthur cracks...]
ARTHUR
Wait!
[Old Merlin stands down, looks at Arthur.]
OLD MERLIN
Is something wrong?
ARTHUR
My father has taught me never to trust magic, and now I am using it to save him.
OLD MERLIN
Your own life has been saved using magic more times than you can possibly imagine.
ARTHUR
What on earth are you talking about?
[Old Merlin realises it would be dangerous to elaborate.]
OLD MERLIN
I merely mean to say that magic is all around you. It is woven into the very fabric
of the world.
[Arthur's unsettled.]
ARTHUR
How can I be sure it's the right thing to do?
OLD MERLIN
I know you have suffered because of magic, as many have. But not all magic, and not
all sorcerers are the same. I wish only to show you that magic can be used for
good. I hope one day you'll see me in a different light.
[Arthur's moved by the argument. Arthur and Old Merlin trade stares for a poignant
beat, then Arthur nods and steps back. Old Merlin turns to Uther, psyches himself
up then holds up the sage branch. Old Merlin's eyes glow. The sage branch begins to
smoke. Old Merlin wafts the incense over
Uther and begins to chant, with increasing intensity...]
OLD MERLIN
Efencume ætgædre, eala gastas cræftige: gestricie pis lic forod.
[Old Merlin completes the spell and his eyes glow. Silence. The tension rises as
ARTHUR looks at Uther, desperately hoping to see some signs of life. For a moment,
it looks like the spell has failed. Old Merlin grows anxious. Suddenly, Uther's
eyes snap open. Arthur's thrilled.]
ARTHUR
Father... Father?
[Arthur and Uther clinch hands. Uther manages a weak smile.]
UTHER
Arthur...
[Arthur laughs in relief. Old Merlin allows himself a smile, overcome with relief.
But as Uther looks up at Arthur, his expression suddenly contorts in pain. His
breath starts to fail. Arthur reacts, alarmed.]
ARTHUR
What's happening!?
[Old Merlin's equally alarmed.]
OLD MERLIN
I don't know...
[Uther's fading fast.]
ARTHUR
Do something!
[Uther goes still. Old Merlin feels for a pulse. There isn't one. Old Merlin
reels.]
OLD MERLIN
He's dead.
[Arthur struggles to accept this...]
ARTHUR
No... He can't be… (shaking Uther) Father... Father!?...
[Arthur realises the futility of his actions. He gives up, stares at Uther, his
mind swimming. He suddenly turns on Old Merlin, more hurt and angry that we have
ever seen him. All Old Merlin can do is look on, horrified.]
ARTHUR
What have you done?
OLD MERLIN
This was not supposed to happen.
ARTHUR
You gave me your word. You-- you have killed him... You killed him!
OLD MERLIN
No...
[Arthur draws his sword and advances on Old Merlin.]
ARTHUR
You'll die for what you've done!
[Old Merlin's eyes flash as he thrusts his hand out.]
OLD MERLIN
Hleap on bæc!
[Arthur flies backwards and falls to the floor, momentarily stunned. Old Merlin
flees. Arthur takes a moment to come to his senses.]
--
[33:20, INT. KING'S PALACE (GRIFFIN CORRIDOR) – NIGHT 3]
[Old Merlin ducks behind a column, in shock from what just happened. He hears
guards approaching, takes out a little bottle of potion and downs it.]
--
[Gaius closes Uther's eyes. Merlin hurries in. He sees Gaius standing over the bed,
and Arthur and Gwen looking on, traumatised. Merlin struggles to accept what he's
seeing.]
GAIUS
I'm sorry, Arthur... The King is dead.
[Arthur is still unable to accept this, tears streaming down his face. Merlin looks
on, horrified. Gaius covers Uther's face with the sheet.]
--
[34:14, INT. GAIUS' CHAMBERS - NIGHT 3]
[Merlin and Gaius enter Gaius' chambers.]
MERLIN
The spell was working. I'm sure of it. I did everything right. I don't know what
happened.
GAIUS
I think I do.
[Gaius opens his hand to reveal the small silver charm.]
GAIUS
I found it round Uther's neck. It's been enchanted and such an enchantment would
reverse the effects of your healing spell. Uther didn't stand a chance.
[Merlin suddenly suspects who is responsible.]
MERLIN
Morgana...
GAIUS
I believe so.
--
[Agravaine enters and finds Morgana curled up in bed. Morgana speaks before
Agravaine can deliver his exciting news.]
MORGANA
Uther's dead, isn't he?
AGRAVAINE (confused)
How did you know?
[Morgana sits up.]
MORGANA
I felt it. I felt his pain.
[Agravaine's surprised by Morgana's muted reaction.]
AGRAVAINE
I thought Uther's death would be cause for celebration?
MORGANA
Arthur will replace him. There'll be no celebration until I take my place upon the
throne.
AGRAVAINE
That might be sooner than you think. Arthur is young, untested. He will look to his
trusted uncle for counsel. And I will ensure that he fails.
--
[36:01, INT. KING'S PALACE (ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS) - NIGHT 4]
[Arthur sits in a chair, staring into space, struggling to process his emotions.
Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
I am so sorry.
[Arthur absorbs the sympathy. Merlin struggles to express what he's feeling.]
MERLIN
I... I should've... I wish that there was something I could have done.
ARTHUR
Merlin. No one but me is to blame for this.
MERLIN
You are not to blame. This isn't your fault.
ARTHUR
I'm entirely to blame. My father spent twenty years fighting magic. To think I knew
better. I was so arrogant. That arrogance has cost my father his life.
MERLIN
You were only doing what you thought was right. I'm sure that that old sorcerer
meant no harm. Perhaps the spell went wrong. Uther was dying. Maybe nothing could
have saved him...
ARTHUR
We'll never know. All I know for sure is that I've lost both my parents to magic.
It is pure evil. I'll never lose sight of that again.
[Someone knocks on the door. Arthur gets up resolutely and leaves.]
--
[38:01, INT. KING'S PALACE (THRONE ROOM) - NIGHT 4]
[Arthur enters the mighty room where Uther is lying in state. There is a raised
dais in the centre of the space. Uther lies on it, surrounded by candles. Arthur
begins the long, lonely walk to Uther's side. Merlin and Gaius close the doors.
Arthur reaches the dais.]
--
[38:23, INT. KING'S PALACE (ANTE CHAMBER CORRIDOR) - NIGHT 4]
[Gaius sits down next to Merlin.]
GAIUS
We must leave him to mourn.
[Gaius takes in Merlin's shell shocked expression.]

GAIUS
Merlin..?
MERLIN
This is all my fault. I killed him.
GAIUS
You did not kill Uther. Morgana did. Uther's spirit died when she broke his heart.
[Merlin takes this in.]
GAIUS
We must look to the future. Uther's death will allow Arthur's progression to the
throne. We must hope it brings peace and stability to the land.
MERLIN
Magic will still be outlawed.
[Gaius nods sadly.]
MERLIN
I've turned Arthur against it forever. He'll never know who I really am.
GAIUS
That time will come. I'm sure of it. Arthur will be under even more pressure now
that he's King. He will need you more than ever.
[Merlin takes that in. He knows it's true.]
GAIUS
There's nothing more to be done. Let's go and have some supper.
MERLIN
I think I'll wait here.
[Gaius takes this in, touched by Merlin's devotion. Gaius heads off, leaving Merlin
to wait with a heavy heart.]
--
[40:10, INT. KING'S PALACE (THRONE ROOM) - DAY 5]
[Arthur kisses Uther's forehead. Tears streak down Arthur's face.]
--
[40:28, INT. KING'S PALACE (ANTE CHAMBER) - DAY 5]
[Merlin sits on the floor against the stone railing. He stares at the wall opposite
the doors. Arthur opens the doors and sunlight streams in through the windows.]
ARTHUR (O.S.)
Merlin?
[Merlin turns his head and sees Arthur standing over him. Arthur has dried his
eyes. He is calm and composed, almost serene. They trade stares, Arthur looks at
the light flooding in through the window - in a contemplative mood.]
ARTHUR
It is a new day.
[Merlin takes this in, then stands.]

ARTHUR
You been here all night?
MERLIN
I didn't want you to feel that you were alone.
ARTHUR (touched)
You're a loyal friend, Merlin.
[Merlin and Arthur trade a look, then Arthur closes the throne room doors and takes
a breath.]
ARTHUR
You must be hungry?
MERLIN
Starving.
ARTHUR
Me too... Come on. You can make us some breakfast.
[Merlin and Arthur head up the spiral staircase.]
--
[41:35, EXT. CAMELOT - DAY 5]
[The sun shines over Camelot. The start of a beautiful day. Guards take their
positions, villagers head up the palace steps, pages blow their trumptes.]
--
[41:49, INT. KING'S PALACE (THRONE ROOM) - DAY 6]
[The Throne Room is packed with courtiers who bow as Arthur walks toward the
throne. An air of excitement and anticipation fills the room. We take in the
presence of Merlin, Gaius, Gwen, Agravaine, Percival, Sir Leon, Gwaine and Elyan...
Arthur kneels. Geoffrey of Monmouth stands next to him with the crown in his
hands.]
Will you solemnly promise and swear to govern the Peoples of Camelot according to
their respective laws and customs?
ARTHUR
I solemnly swear so to do.
Will you to your power cause Law and Justice, in Mercy, to be executed in all your
judgments?
ARTHUR
I will.
Then by the sacred laws vested in me, I pronounce you Arthur, King of Camelot!
[Geoffrey of Monmouth places a crown upon Arthur's head. Arthur stands and looks
out over the courtiers.]
AGRAVAINE
Long live the King!
[Everyone joins in the chant...]
ALL
Long live the King! Long live the King! Long live the King!
[Go out on the Knights of the Round Table...]
ALL
Long live the King!
[Gwen...]
ALL
Long live the King!
[Merlin...]
ALL
Long live the king! Long live the King!
[Merlin, shouting - proud, moved by the huge significance of the moment.]
MERLIN/ALL
Long live the King!
-----------------------------------------------
Note: transcript altered from THE ORIGINAL SCRIPT.
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October 22 2011, 17:46
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BBC Merlin: 4x04 Aithusa
KILGHARRAH
--
[INT. DRUIDS’ CAVE - NIGHT]
[Borden steals the key. He connects it to his third of the key. He turns around and
finds the druids all awake. He runs into the woods, but is pursued by the druids.
They catch him and he pulls a dagger on a man.]
ISELDIR
It is not worth anyone’s life.
BORDEN
Isn’t it? It’s cost me twenty years of mine.
ISELDIR
It is of no use. You will never find the third part of the Triskellian.
BORDEN
Ah, but you’re wrong. I already know where that bit is.
[Borden shoves his captive at the druids and jumps off the cliff, saving himself by
plunging his dagger into the ground on the other side of the gap. He rides to
Camelot.]
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius is working late when Borden knocks on the door. Merlin wakes. Gaius answers
the door.]
BORDEN
Hello, Gaius. Surely you remember me?
GAIUS
Only too well. Why are you here?
BORDEN
Please, I could do with drying myself by your fire.
GAIUS
You have a nerve coming back here. You left me in a lot of trouble.
BORDEN
Yeah. Yeah, sorry about that. What can I say? Execution...didn’t really appeal to
me. Don’t pretend you supported Uther.
GAIUS
Tell me why you are here.
[Borden pulls out the key.]
BORDEN
Save your eyesight, Gaius. It’s the Triskellian of Ashkanar
GAIUS
You are sure?
BORDEN
I’m certain.
GAIUS
Let me see.
[Gaius examines the writing on it.]
GAIUS
It’s in a druid tongue. The bind runes are in threes. That’s rare.
BORDEN
Oh, I can save you the trouble. They guide the bearer to the tomb of Ashkanar. Yes.
We both know the legend. We both know what he hid there.
GAIUS
A dragon’s egg. And you have come to steal it.
BORDEN
I wouldn’t say “steal”.
GAIUS
You’re forgetting one thing, you’re missing a part of the Triskellian.
BORDEN
Oh, no. I know where that bit is.
GAIUS
Where?
BORDEN
In the vaults...beneath your feet.
GAIUS
In Camelot?
BORDEN
Where it has lain safe and secure for the last four hundred years.
GAIUS
And you want me to help you to get it.
BORDEN
We could bring this noble creature back to life.
[Gaius is sceptical.]
GAIUS
I want no part of your plan.
BORDEN
You don’t want to release the last living dragon?
GAIUS
The old ways should be left to die.
BORDEN
Well, that’s not what you taught me!
GAIUS
It’s what I feel now. I believe in the king that Arthur will become and the future
he will build.
BORDEN
Think about it.
GAIUS
I’ve given you my answer. Now I think you should leave Camelot. Sooner rather than
later. Arthur may not be his father, but is no friend of the old ways.
[Gaius opens the door for Borden to leave.]
BORDEN
You’ll find me in the tavern in the lower town. Take your time. Gaius, I know I
caused you trouble before, but I’m a changed man. Believe me.
[Borden leaves and Merlin emerges from his room.]
MERLIN
Who was that?
GAIUS
Oh, doesn’t matter.
MERLIN
Gaius.
GAIUS (sigh)
He was a pupil. His name is Julius Borden.
MERLIN
Why won’t you help him? This is our one chance of saving the dragons. Of Helping
Kilgharrah preserve his kind.
GAIUS
Borden is not a man to be trusted.
MERLIN
You don’t think the Triskellian is real?
GAIUS
That I have no doubt.
MERLIN
Then what?
GAIUS
His motives, Merlin. Even as a young man he was prone to dishonesty. Who knows what
path he is on now.
MERLIN
You want the egg to remain lost forever.
GAIUS
I don’t want it to get into Borden’s hands! The tomb of Ashkenar has lain untouched
for more than four hundred years. It is my belief it should remain that way. Now
let’s get some sleep. We’ve got a busy day ahead of us tomorrow.
--
KILGHARRAH
I never dared dream of such a moment, Merlin.
[Merlin chuckles happily.]
KILGHARRAH
Until now, I believed the egg would never be found, that I would be the last of my
kind.
MERLIN
So the legend is true?
KILGHARRAH
This is a chance in a thousand, Merlin. You must retrieve the egg.
MERLIN
I know.
KILGHARRAH
Then what is the matter?
MERLIN
Gaius has forbidden it.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin! You are a dragonlord! It is a gift passed down from your father. He gave up
everything in his life to save me. What do you think he would say? The egg harbours
the last of my kind. I beg you, Merlin. In your father’s name, promise me that you
will do everything in your power to rescue it.
MERLIN
You have my promise.
--
[EXT. LOWER TOWN - DAY]
[Merlin walks down to the tavern.]
--
[INT. THE RISING SUN - DAY]
[Merlin enters Borden’s room. There’s a lump on the bed in the shape of a body, but
Borden jumps out from behind the door and pins Merlin against the wall with a
dagger at his throat.]
BORDEN
What do you want?
MERLIN
To help you.
BORDEN
Who are you?
MERLIN
A friend of Gaius. I heard what you told him. I want to see a dragon’s egg. I want
to come with you.
BORDEN
Did he send you?
MERLIN
No.
BORDEN
No?
[Borden lets Merlin go and opens the door.]
BORDEN
Then get out.
MERLIN
Please, I know everything about dragons. I’ve read everything...[?]
BORDEN
Not interested. Go away.
[Borden grabs Merlin’s shirt and shoves him out.]
MERLIN
All right, but you won’t get into the vaults without me.
BORDEN (scoffs)
And how’s a boy like you gonna help?
MERLIN
Because I’m the personal servant of King Arthur.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin tries to steal the vault keys while Arthur sleeps, but Arthur wakes.]
KING ARTHUR
What on earth are you doing?
MERLIN
Looking for woodworm.
[Merlin pretends to look for woodworm.]
KING ARTHUR
Before breakfast?
MERLIN
That is when the worms are most active.
KING ARTHUR
Get out.
[Merlin starts to leave and sees the keys on Arthur’s belt on the trousers from the
day before.]
MERLIN
These need washing.
KING ARTHUR
So do these.
[Arthur throws some clothes at Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
Oh, and Merlin, before you go, I need that belt.
[Frustrated, Merlin leaves the belt with the keys on it.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - DAY]
AGRAVAINE
We need to strengthen all our outlying defences as Odin’s [?]. But it is the
northern borders that are particularly vulnerable.
KING ARTHUR
There’s always been so, and the reason’s obvious. If you look at the terrain here.
[Merlin’s eyes glow and Arthur’s trousers drop.]
MERLIN
Allow me to help you, sire.
KING ARTHUR
No. No! Merlin!
MERLIN
Your Majesty.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin!
MERLIN
Majesty!
KING ARTHUR
Get off me!
MERLIN
I’m trying to help you, sire!
[They get up from the struggle. Arthur pulls up his own trousers and Merlin has the
key.]
MERLIN
There we go. Will there be anything else, sire?
KING ARTHUR
No!
[Merlin backs out with the key behind his back.]
KING ARTHUR (clears throat)

So, the terrain here...
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Merlin lets Borden in through the outer wall.]
BORDEN
I’m beginning to like you, Merlin.
[They go down the stairs toward the vaults. Merlin stops part way down.]
MERLIN
This is as far as I go. And this key opens the last gate. But you have to get past
the guards.
[Borden takes the key.]
BORDEN
That won’t be a problem.
[Borden distract and then knocks out the guards, enters the vaults, and takes the
third piece of the Triskellian. He combines the three pieces. Borden returns to
where Merlin is waiting. They hear some guards.]
GUARD
To the right.
MERLIN
Follow me.
GUARD
[They exit and hide by the door to the outer wall.]
BORDEN
Thanks.
MERLIN
Anytime.
BORDEN
Tell me, Merlin, would you say you’re a good liar?
MERLIN
Yeah, if I need to be.
[Borden knocks him out and tosses the key at him.]
BORDEN
You going to need to be.
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, CASTLE WALL - DAY]
[Merlin wakes, his legs hanging out of the wall doorway. He starts to get up and
the key drops to the floor. Merlin realises what happened, stands up and locks the
door.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin tries to put back the vault key, but he knocks a goblet onto Arthur’s bed
and he scrambles over Arthur, stops the cup mid-air with magic, sighs in relief,
and grabs it. Arthur wakes and sits up in bed, startled.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin? What are you doing?
MERLIN
Shh!
[Merlin puts a finger to his lips. Merlin uses the goblet as an amplifier to listen
to the headboard as he taps it.]
MERLIN
I’m listening for woodworm.
KING ARTHUR
I’m getting slightly concerned about you.
[The warning bells ring.]
KING ARTHUR
The hell is that?
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, VAULTS - NIGHT]
AGRAVAINE
The lock hasn’t been damaged, which would suggest whoever it was had a key.
GAIUS
Strange.
KING ARTHUR
Of all these treasures, this is all they were interested in. What was in here?
GAIUS
I believe, sire, one third of a Triskellian, a type of key. A key that, according
to legend, opens the ancient tomb of Ashkanar.
KING ARTHUR
I remember my father talk of such a tomb. It contained a dragon’s egg.
GAIUS
It has been said.
KING ARTHUR
You don’t believe it to be true?
GAIUS
Well, it is possible, sire. The wealth and wisdom of Ashkanar are without equal.
AGRAVAINE
Is the egg still there?
GAIUS
I can’t be certain. But, to my knowledge, no one has disturbed the tomb for more
than four hundred years.
KING ARTHUR
But with this Triskellian, someone could.
AGRAVAINE
Sire, a dragon’s egg can live for a thousand years. Even today, it could still
hatch, and another dragon would be born into this world.
KING ARTHUR
So, all my father’s work to rid the world of these monsters would be undone.
AGRAVAINE
That must be our fear.
KING ARTHUR
Then we have no choice. We must hunt down this intruder, destroy the egg.
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
GAIUS
How could you be so stupid!? What were you thinking!?
MERLIN
I am a dragon lord. It is my sacred duty to protect the last of the dragons.
GAIUS
The tomb could’ve remained closed for another four hundred years and the egg
would’ve been completely safe! Now Arthur’s riding out intent on destroying it!
MERLIN
We have to hope that Borden gets there first.
GAIUS (scoffs)
You trust Borden? You really think he’s going to release that dragon? (scoffs) I
fear to think what he intends for the poor creature. Why couldn’t you leave things
alone!?
--
[EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
KING ARTHUR
Hurry up, Merlin!
[The knights ride out. Merlin mounts and joins them.]
--
[EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY]
[They ride through the countryside.]
KING ARTHUR
Same hoof tracks. We must be closing on him.
MERLIN
Look.
[Merlin points to a pillar of smoke.]
MERLIN
He made camp. Ya!
[They ride off.]
--
[EXT. FOREST, BORDEN’S CAMP - EVENING]
[Arthur checks the campfire ashes.]
KING ARTHUR
It’s still warm.
SIR ELYAN
He can’t have more than a few hours’ lead on us.
KING ARTHUR
We need to keep moving.
[Later, Arthur dismounts and checks the hillside.]
KING ARTHUR
Deer tracks.
SIR LEON
We lost him?
KING ARTHUR
It’s getting too dark to see. We have to find somewhere to hole up for the night.
MERLIN
But we’re so close to him.
KING ARTHUR
Unless you can see in the dark, Merlin, there’s not much else we can do.
--
[Merlin serves supper.]
SIR LEON
Whoa. I’m famished.
[Merlin gives him more.]
SIR LEON
Thank you.
SIR GWAINE
Ah, I’m hungry as a horse.
[Merlin serves Gwaine some extra and then crouches down to pour some in his own
plate.]
KING ARTHUR
As a point, Merlin, have you fed them?
MERLIN
What?
KING ARTHUR
The horses.
MERLIN
Well—
KING ARTHUR
Come on, there must be starving.
MERLIN
But—
KING ARTHUR
On your toes.
[Merlin feeds the horses. He senses something, but sees no one.]
SIR GWAINE
Mm. That was lovely, Merlin. Thanks.
[Gwaine hands Merlin his empty plate. The others do likewise.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Er, I loved it.
SIR LEON
Me, too.
KING ARTHUR
If you’re gonna wash those, wash this, too.
[Arthur hands Merlin the cooking pot.]
MERLIN
Thanks.
KING ARTHUR
Hang on, there’s still a bit left.
[Arthur scoops it up with the ladle and eats the last of the stew.]
KING ARTHUR (nods and points to the pot)

Mm. Mm.
MERLIN
Good, was it?
KING ARTHUR
Little bit salty, though.
[Arthur pats Merlin on the arm and walks off. Merlin sulks away to do the dishes.]
SIR LEON (chuckles)

Merlin.
[Merlin turns around and Leon pulls out Merlin’s plate.]
SIR LEON
There’s another plate here.
[The knights laugh and Merlin can’t help but join them.]
--
DELETED SCENE 44 - possible script location
[EXT. FOREST - NIGHT]
ARTHUR
You're very quiet.
MERLIN
I'm sorry.
ARTHUR
What is it?
[Merlin doesn't respond.]
ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
It was here that I last saw my father.
[Arthur processes that surprise.]
ARTHUR
You never talked about it.
MERLIN
There's not much that I can say. I didn't really know him that well, but...I was
proud of him. I want him to be proud of me.
ARTHUR
I can understand that. You should try being in my shoes. It was hard enough while
he was alive, always having to live up to what he expected of me. It's even harder
now. I now know what he faced, the decisions he had to make. I tell you Merlin,
don't start measuring yourself against a man who's dead. You'll never win.
MERLIN
I know. He will always be better than me.
[Something occurs to Merlin.]
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
For a moment there, I thought we had something in common.
[They chuckle.]
END DELETED SCENE
--
[The knights sleep. Merlin wakes when he hears a whisper in his mind.]
ISELDIR (telepathy)
Emrys. Emrys.
[Merlin stands up.]
ISELDIR (telepathy)
Emrys.
[Merlin follows the sound of the voice through the woods.]
ISELDIR (telepathy)
Emrys.
MERLIN
Where are you?
ISELDIR (telepathy)
Emrys.
[Merlin finds the druids in the woods. Iseldir lowers his hood.]
ISELDIR
Do not be afraid. We know your quest.
MERLIN
How?
ISELDIR
The man you seek also stole from us. He passed through these woods not three hours
before you.
MERLIN
Which way did he go?
ISELDIR
To the east. But you must be wary, Emrys. The legends tell a tale that only the
druids know.
MERLIN
What do they say?
ISELDIR
Ashkanar was a wise man. He knew one day men would come seeking to disturb his
rest. The Triskellian is not just a key. It is also a trap.
MERLIN
What do you mean? What kind of trap?
ISELDIR
I do not know. But the legends are very clear, you must beware, Emrys.
[Merlin looks uncomfortably at the circle of druids and starts to head back to
camp.]
ISELDIR
Emrys.
[Merlin stops.]
ISELDIR
There is one other thing the legends say. Only when the way ahead seems impossible
will you have found it.
[Merlin leaves.]
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[The knights sneak through the woods, swords drawn. They enter Borden’s camp only
to find it abandoned.]
KING ARTHUR
He must’ve left in the night.
SIR GWAINE
No horse tracks.
SIR LEON
He’s covered them.
MERLIN
We had him. We were so close.
[Merlin walks off purposefully.]
KING ARTHUR
Where are you going? We don’t even know which way he went.
MERLIN
He’s heading east.
KING ARTHUR
How do you know that?
[Merlin tries to think on his feet.]
MERLIN
Because I can sense it.
KING ARTHUR
Sense is not a word I associate with you, Merlin.
[Elyan finds some horse dung.]
SIR ELYAN
Hang on! He’s right.
KING ARTHUR
He can’t be.
SIR LEON
Well done, Merlin.
MERLIN (to Arthur)

You ever heard of the word “sorry”?
KING ARTHUR
No, is that another word you made up?
--
[EXT. BALINOR’S CAVE - DAY]
KING ARTHUR
It’s a dead end. That’s it. Let’s go back.
[The knights turn back.]
MERLIN
What about the cave?
KING ARTHUR
We’re wasting our time.
SIR PERCIVAL
Arthur.
SIR PERCIVAL
Arthur.
[Percival points down at a muddy footprint by the water. They enter the cave and
draw their swords. They keep going deeper.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, this is ridiculous. Where’s he heading?
MERLIN
There’s light ahead.
[They come to a waterfall. Arthur sheathes his sword and puts his hand through it
and crosses to the other side. They continue on the other side.]
SIR GWAINE
No wonder no one’s ever found it.
[They walk down a hill towards a giant tower.]
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[They walk down a large trench path towards the tower and Percival gets shot in the
leg with an arrow.]
KING ARTHUR
Take cover!
[They press their backs into the trench walls. An arrow lands between Arthur’s
feet. Borden loads another arrow. Percival groans in pain.]
KING ARTHUR
You all right?
SIR PERCIVAL
Yeah.
[An arrow flies next to Percival’s head.]
KING ARTHUR
Where’s he firing from?
[Arthur turns to Leon.]
KING ARTHUR
I’ll draw fire, get him to safety.
[Arthur nods to Percival. Borden shoots at Arthur as he dodges to the other side
and Leon helps Percival to his feet so he can take cover against the wall. Merlin
sees Borden move on the ridge.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Arthur.
[Merlin directs Arthur’s line of vision. Arthur peeks out for a moment, then
motions a plan to the knights. Arthur sprints to the other side of the trench and
Merlin magicks the crossbow out of Borden’s hands and smashes it against a tree.
Borden runs off. Arthur reaches Borden’s former position.]
KING ARTHUR
What happened? Where’s he gone?
MERLIN
Perhaps he ran out of bolts.
[Arthur sneaks through the woods and the others follow, Percival limps along.
Merlin dashes past Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
Careful!
[Merlin stops and slides and Arthur pulls him back.]
KING ARTHUR
Who knows what he’s left lying in wait for us.
MERLIN
We can go around that.
KING ARTHUR
No.
[Arthur grabs Merlin to stop him.]
KING ARTHUR
He knows we’re coming.
MERLIN
That’s a risk we have to take!
KING ARTHUR
We’ll make camp, continue at dawn.
--
[EXT. FOREST, CAMPSITE - DAY]
[The knights relax while Merlin cooks dinner. Merlin steps away from the pot for a
moment Borden shoots something into it with a slingshot. Merlin checks to see that
the knights are busy, then tries to serve himself first. Arthur comes over and
grabs the plate just as he’s about to take a bite.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, can you get some more firewood?
MERLIN
Well, I was just going to try the soup--
[Merlin eats it.]
KING ARTHUR
Mm. Mm. Mm. Mm. This is good. Guys, you got to try this.
[The knights head over with their plates and serve themselves. Merlin comes back
from collecting firewood to find them all passed out.]
MERLIN
All right, don’t tell me...it was too salty.
[Merlin gets closer and sees they’re fast asleep. Gwaine is snoring. Merlin drops
the wood loudly, but no one stirs. He crouches down to the soup bowl.]
KING ARTHUR
MERLIN
Well, if you think I’m doing the washing...
[Merlin finds the poultice that Borden shot into the soup and sniffs it. He hears
Arthur start having trouble breathing. Merlin rushes over to check on him. The rest
begin to suffocate as well. Merlin places a hand on Arthur’s chest.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Ic þe þurhhæle þin licsare!
[Arthur takes a full breath and returns to normal. Merlin rushes to Leon next.]
MERLIN (whisper)
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Merlin scrambles through the forest in pursuit of Borden. He stops at the tower
and sees Borden climbing into it. Merlin follows.]
--
[INT. TOMB OF ASHKANAR - NIGHT]
[Borden arrives at the entrance. The key hole is on the wall. Merlin approaches.
Borden puts the key in the hole and turns the lock. Merlin turns the corner and
finds him.]
MERLIN
No!
[The door opens and Borden looks back at Merlin before entering. As he does, smoke
pours into his face from the mouths of gargoyles. Borden coughs and sinks to the
ground and the smoke floods down towards Merlin. Merlin covers his face with his
jacket and holds up a hand.]
MERLIN
Þrosm tohweorfe!
[Merlin’s eyes glow and the smoke dissipates. Merlin crouches down by the
unconscious Borden, picks up the torch, and continues on. Merlin walks up some
steps to a great hall. He smiles as he sees the dragon egg, shaped like a teardrop,
on a sunlit pedestal. He approaches and puts down the torch. He touches the dragon
egg.]
BORDEN
Give it to me.
[Borden walks up the steps.]
MERLIN (angry)
It’s not yours to take.
BORDEN
You give it to me and I will grant you a half-share, Merlin.
MERLIN
No, it must go free.
BORDEN
Don’t be a fool! Think of the power it could bring us! The lands we can rule over,
the riches.
MERLIN
I’m not interested in that.
BORDEN
With this dragon at our command, we will live like kings. We will have the freedom
and power to do as we wish!
MERLIN
Dragons cannot be used like that! They must be left unshackled, free to roam the
earth.
BORDEN
But this is your chance, Merlin. Your chance to escape your meaningless life, your
worthless existence!
MERLIN
It’s not my life pitiable, it’s yours. Wasted...for nothing.
[Borden grabs the torch and threatens Merlin with it.]
BORDEN
I pieced together the Triskellian. I found the path that led us here! The dragon
belongs to me! Now, hand it over!
MERLIN
No.
[Borden swings the torch at Merlin.]
BORDEN
You are not gonna stop me, boy!
MERLIN
Dragon’s are magical creatures! They belong to no man!
[Merlin falls to the ground.]
MERLIN
They are for the benefit of all!
BORDEN (scoffs)
What do you know? Huh!? You are but a serving boy!
MERLIN
I am the last dragonlord.
[Borden’s face falls.]
MERLIN
And I am warning you...leave this egg alone.
[Borden glances at the egg, then tries to strike Merlin with the torch. Merlin
throws Borden backwards, knocking him unconscious. Merlin gets up and takes the egg
and the tower begins to collapse. Merlin runs out, dodging falling rock. He reaches
his satchel in the woods and puts the dragon egg in it. The knights run up to him.]
KING ARTHUR
What the hell happened?
MERLIN
The tomb is a trap. He set it off. He never got out.
KING ARTHUR
What about the egg?
[Merlin shakes his head and shrugs his shoulders.]
MERLIN
It would’ve perished with him.
KING ARTHUR
Are you sure? We need to be certain.
SIR LEON
Nothing’s going to survive under all that.
[The tower completely collapses. Merlin glances down at the bag at his feet.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Gaius eat supper.]
GAIUS
Shame about the egg.
MERLIN
Yes.
GAIUS
You weren’t able to save it?
MERLIN (shakes his head)

No.
[Gaius regards Merlin for a long moment and Merlin keeps himself busy. Merlin looks
up and Gaius tilts his head in question. Merlin starts to grin and Gaius joins in.
They start to chuckle. Merlin gets up quickly and fetches the egg.]
MERLIN
All the jewels, all the treasures, Gaius, they don’t compare.
[Merlin pulls it out carefully and hands it to Gaius.]
GAIUS
And it was nearly lost because of you.
MERLIN
I’m sorry, Gaius. I was too quick to act.
GAIUS
You have to think things through. Ashkanar did exactly that. He had the foresight
to conceal this for more than four hundred years. And now it’s down to you, Merlin.
[Gaius hands the egg back to Merlin.]
GAIUS
For you to decide what you intend to do with it.
MERLIN
I thought about that. I’m going to make sure it goes back to where it belongs.
--
[Merlin carries the egg through the forest and places it on a tree stump.
Kilgharrah flies in and looks happily down at the dragon egg.]
MERLIN
Is it still alive?
KILGHARRAH
It can live for more than a thousand years.
[Merlin smiles.]
MERLIN
So, you are no longer the last of your kind.
KILGHARRAH (chuckles)
It would seem not.
MERLIN
When will it hatch?
KILGHARRAH
Young dragons were called into the world by the dragonlords. Only they had the
power to summon them from the egg. As the last dragonlord, this solemn duty falls
to you, Merlin.
MERLIN
How do I summon it?
KILGHARRAH
You must give the dragon a name.
[Merlin thinks for a moment and sighs when he decides. He closes his eyes and
Kilgharrah watches him.]
MERLIN (dragon tongue)

Aithusa.
[The egg cracks and out pops the cutest little baby dragon you’ve ever seen.]
KILGHARRAH
A white dragon is, indeed, a rare thing...and fitting. For in the dragon tongue,
you named him after the light of the sun. No dragon birth is without meaning.
[Merlin smiles and cries as he watches the dragon continue to break its way out of
its shell.]
KILGHARRAH
Sometimes the meaning is hard to see, but this time I believe it is clear. The
white dragon bodes well for Albion, for you and Arthur, and for the land that you
will build together.
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November 4 2011, 13:57
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BBC Merlin: 4x05 His Father's Son
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, EXT. FIELD - DAY]
[Merlin runs through a field dressed as a knight, chased by a band of armed men.
Merlin heads into the woods and falls to the ground as an axe lands between his
legs. He picks up the axe and runs further into the dead end. He stops and turns to
face his pursuers, who are now strolling in to meet him. Merlin raises the throwing
axe.]
KING CAERLEON
Trapped, are we?
[An arrow hits one of Caerleon's men in the back. Merlin's pursuers look up to find
themselves surrounded by the Knights of Camelot. Merlin smiles.]
MERLIN
That's the idea.
ARTHUR
On me!
[Arthur jumps down into the pit and topples one of the men.]
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[Agravaine drags along the leader of the prisoners.]
AGRAVAINE
Your Majesty. Look what we have here.
KING ARTHUR
He comes with us. We'll deal with the prisoners when we get back to Camelot.
AGRAVAINE
I fear this is no ordinary prisoner, Your Highness.
[Agravaine rips the necklace from Caerleon's neck and hands it to Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
Well, well.
MERLIN
What is it?
KING ARTHUR
This, Merlin, is the royal crest of Caerleon. Is it not...Your Highness?
--
[02:19, EXT. FOREST, CAMPFIRE - NIGHT]
KING ARTHUR
This is not the first time he's trespassed on our lands.
AGRAVAINE
No, sire. Only last week he seized the village of Stonedown on the western borders.
KING ARTHUR
We're not on the borders now, Agravaine. This is the heart of the kingdom. He took
a grave risk coming here.
AGRAVAINE
Perhaps he doesn't see it that way. I fear it's no coincidence that all this has
happened since Uther's death.
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean?
AGRAVAINE
Arthur, your father was a strong king. His enemies feared and respected that
strength.
KING ARTHUR
Are you saying I'm not worthy of that respect?
AGRAVAINE
No, sire, not at all. There isn't a citizen of Camelot who would not lay down their
life for you. But your enemies...to the enemies of Camelot, you are still untested
as a king. You must send a clear message that any action against Camelot will be
met without mercy.
KING ARTHUR
Did we not achieve that here today?
AGRAVAINE
No, sire. Not enough.
[Merlin listens in while he does cooks dinner.]
AGRAVAINE
Not enough to deter the likes of Odin and Bayard and the countless others who covet
Camelot's wealth.
KING ARTHUR
Well, what do you suggest?
AGRAVAINE
I suggest... I suggest that we force him to accept a treaty on our terms. He must
withdraw his men from our land, return our territories us. He must surrender
Everwick.
KING ARTHUR
He'd rather die than agree to such terms.
AGRAVAINE
Then you are left with no choice.
KING ARTHUR
I can't just kill a man in cold blood.
AGRAVAINE
Arthur, you must do what you need to do to assert your authority on this land.
KING ARTHUR
Well, there must be another way.
AGRAVAINE
There's no other way. Think on it. Decide by tomorrow.
[Agravaine leaves Arthur to mull over his terrible advice.]

MERLIN
Arthur...
KING ARTHUR
Not now, Merlin.
--
[Merlin wakes and brings a glass to Arthur, who is still seriously contemplating
his uncle's suggestion.]
MERLIN
Arthur? Arthur. Here.
[Arthur takes the drink.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you.
MERLIN
You must be cold.
[Merlin kneels by the fire.]
MERLIN
Have you not slept at all?
KING ARTHUR
Been thinking.
MERLIN
About what Agravaine said?
[Arthur nods.]
MERLIN
So, what are you going to do?
KING ARTHUR
My father was a great king, but I don't have his wisdom or his conviction. I can
only follow his example and do what he would've done.
MERLIN
You're going to draw up this treaty?
KING ARTHUR (nods)

I have to show my strength. Show that I'm worthy of my father's name.
MERLIN
Caerleon won't sign it. You know that?
KING ARTHUR
Caerleon brought this upon himself.
MERLIN
Arthur. You've always shown mercy in battle. You've never sought to humiliate your
enemy in this way. This isn't like you. This isn't who you are.
KING ARTHUR
You have no idea what it is to make these decisions. Decisions that will shape the
future of this land.
MERLIN
Arthur--
KING ARTHUR
So, please...stick to what you do know.
[Arthur gets up and leaves.]
--
[The knights assemble and Agravaine presents King Caerleon with the treaty scroll.]
KING CAERLEON
What is this?
[Caerleon doesn't take the scroll, so Agravaine hands it to Sir Leon, who opens
it.]
KING CAERLEON
You expect me to sign this? To humiliate myself before you?
AGRAVAINE
You invaded our kingdom and took what did not belong to you.
KING CAERLEON
And if I do not sign?
AGRAVAINE
Then you will pay with your life.
KING CAERLEON (scoffs)

And who makes these terms?
KING ARTHUR
Arthur Pendragon...
[Arthur walks forward.]
KING ARTHUR
King of Camelot.
[Caerleon pushes Leon's arm aside and steps forward.]
KING CAERLEON
Very well.
[Caerleon shoves off Percival.]
KING CAERLEON
Then make it quick.
[Caerleon kneels.]
KING ARTHUR
Think what you're doing, Caerleon. This treaty could seal a truce between us. There
would be peace. Like there was between your father and mine.
KING CAERLEON
I am not my father. And you are not Uther. Do you really have the guts to kill me?
KING ARTHUR
You leave me no choice.
KING CAERLEON
You do not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone. Now, get
on with it.
[Caerleon bows his head down to Arthur to give him clear aim at his neck.]
KING ARTHUR
So be it.
[Agravaine smirks. Merlin shakes his head.]
--
[07:35, EXT/INT. MAIN SQUARE/KING'S PALACE, CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gaius watches Arthur, Merlin, and the knights dismount in the square.]
--
[07:48, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Agravaine walks with Arthur to his chambers.]
AGRAVAINE
Your resolve has already earned the respect of both the council and the people
alike. Your father would be proud of you.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Uncle. I don't know what I'd have done without your support and counsel.
[Arthur enters his chambers where Gwen is waiting for him. They hug and Agravaine
grimaces. Merlin enters with Arthur's travel pack.]
KING ARTHUR
Did you miss me?
GWEN
Yes.
--
[08:14, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin unpacks while Arthur washes up.]
MERLIN
Can't have been easy having a man killed like that.
KING ARTHUR
I had no choice. Show of strength was necessary.
MERLIN
Don't you think compassion can also show strength?
KING ARTHUR
Not for the likes of Caerleon, no. No, an example had to be made for the good of
the kingdom.
MERLIN
So, you don't regret what you did?
KING ARTHUR
My conscience is clean, Merlin, which is more than I can say for my room. So, just
do your job, will you?
MERLIN
Look, I'm just saying, if there's something bothering you, you can talk to me. You
shouldn't push your friends away, you know? Not now. Not when you need them the
most.
KING ARTHUR
You're wrong, Merlin. I don't need anyone. I can't afford that luxury.
[Merlin is clearly upset.]
KING ARTHUR
The kingdom's my responsibility now. Mine to bear alone. And you must learn to
accept that.
[Merlin nods, trying to mask his disappointment.]
--
[09:13, EXT. CAERLEON'S CASTLE - DAY]
[King Caerleon's men bear his body to his castle. His wife, Queen Annis pulls back
the sheet to see his body. She is disturbed by what she finds.]
QUEEN ANNIS
This...this is no battle wound. This is the work of cowards!
[Annis whips the sheet back over her husband's face.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Arthur will pay for this, by God! The whole of Camelot will pay for this!
--
[09:48, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Arthur sits alone at the table looking over court documents. Someone knocks on the
door.]
KING ARTHUR
Come.
[Agravaine enters.]
AGRAVAINE
I am sorry to disturb you, my lord.
KING ARTHUR
Something the matter, Uncle?
AGRAVAINE
I dare to hope that my advice has been of some use these past months.
KING ARTHUR
Of course it has, you know that.
AGRAVAINE
There is something I wish to discuss with you. But...it is a delicate matter.
KING ARTHUR
Yes?
AGRAVAINE
It concerns Guinevere.
KING ARTHUR
What about her?
AGRAVAINE
She's a beautiful woman, sire, and possessed of many fine qualities, I have no
doubt. But she is a servant.
KING ARTHUR
That doesn't matter to me.
AGRAVAINE (hastily)
Nor to me. I assure you. No, i--it's your people that concern me.
[Arthur stirs uncomfortably.]
KING ARTHUR
Well, surely as king, I can do as I see fit.
AGRAVAINE
No, sire, you cannot. You must do what is expected of you. You must present
yourself in an appropriate manner. The people...your people do not wish to see
their king with the daughter of a blacksmith.
KING ARTHUR
This isn't a matter of state. This is a matter of the heart.
AGRAVAINE
You cannot rule the kingdom with your heart, Arthur. Your father understood that.
[Arthur stirs even more uncomfortably. Agravaine takes the chair next to Arthur.]
AGRAVAINE
You didn't want to kill Caerleon, I know that. But you were strong. You didn't let
those emotions cloud your judgement. You rule with your head like a strong king
must.
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
AGRAVAINE
And now you must show that strength again. Set aside your personal feelings for the
good of your kingdom.
KING ARTHUR
Set aside my feelings for Guinevere?
AGRAVAINE
I'm afraid so, my lord.
[Arthur considers the advice unhappily.]

--
[12:04, EXT. CAMELOT - DAY]
[A messenger rides to Camelot.]
--
[12:15, TRAINING GROUNDS - DAY]
[Merlin steadies the punching bag for Arthur.]
MERLIN
You seem tense.
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean "tense"?
MERLIN
You know...agitated. On edge. Angry.
KING ARTHUR
This is not anger, Merlin. This is controlled aggression!
[Arthur punches the bag off of the hanger and Merlin falls to the ground with it.]
MERLIN
Great. I'm glad we cleared that up.
[Leon arrives.]
SIR LEON
Sire. A messenger this minute arrived.
KING ARTHUR
What is it?
SIR LEON
An army. They crossed our border at first light.
KING ARTHUR
An army? Whose army?
SIR LEON
Caerleon's queen.
--
[12:45, KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - DAY]
KING ARTHUR
At a forced march, Caerleon's men will reach Camelot by sundown tomorrow, which
means we have no choice. We must intercept them before they reach the ridge of [?].
That way, we hold the high ground. The knights of Camelot make ready as I speak. We
ride at dawn.
AGRAVAINE
Long live the king!
ALL
Long live the king! Long live the king! Long live the king!
[Merlin looks on unhappily. Agravaine smirks.]

--
[13:14, EXT/INT. CAERLEON'S CASTLE, TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Morgana arrives outside Caerleon's castle. She magically opens a door to the
tunnels and heads inside. A guard spots her.]
GUARD
Halt!
[Another guard steps in her path and she is surrounded.]
MORGANA
Please. I mean you know harm. I wish only to speak with your queen.
--
[13:48, INT. CAERLEON'S CASTLE, THRONE ROOM - NIGHT]
[The guards escort Morgana into the throne room and pull off her hood.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Morgana Pendragon. Stealing into my castle in the dead of night. You must have a
death wish.
MORGANA
Sorry for the interruption, Your Majesty, but I've come on urgent business.
QUEEN ANNIS
What business could you possibly have with me, witch?
MORGANA
I come in the name of my father.
QUEEN ANNIS
Is that so? When last I heard, you and he were--
MORGANA
I speak not of Uther, but of Gorlois.
QUEEN ANNIS
Gorlois?
MORGANA
Uther is my father by blood alone. Gorlois raised me as a child. He made me who I
am
QUEEN ANNIS
I remember him well. He was a good man. An honourable man.
MORGANA
He was, Your Highness. And his sole reward was death, betrayed by his king.
QUEEN ANNIS
Well, then. It seems we have both lost something at the hands of a Pendragon.
[Annis stands and approaches Morgana.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Now, for the last time, what are you doing here?
MORGANA
Your Highness...
[Morgana shoves off the guard holding her, walks up to Queen Annis, and bows down
to her knees.]
MORGANA
Your Highness, Uther was a curse upon this land, as is his son. I seek revenge for
wounds they have inflicted, as do you. If you will accept it, I've come to offer my
help.
--
[15:24, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin prepares Arthur's bed while Arthur puts on a cloak.]
MERLIN
Off again? Another weak in the wilderness. Eating weird animals, being eaten by
weird animals. No hot water, no baths. This will be the last time either of us get
to sleep in a proper bed.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, I'm prepared to face all manner of horrors in this world, but if you think
I'm sharing this bed with you...
MERLIN (laughs)
What? No, that's not what I meant.
KING ARTHUR
Right. Good. Comfort to know.
MERLIN
KING ARTHUR
That's my business. And Merlin, don't be here when I come back.
--
[16:02, LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[Arthur walks to Gwen's with the hood pulled up on his cloak. A guard spots him.]
GUARD
Halt! Declare yourself!
[Arthur stops, irritated. He turns around and pulls off the hood. The guard is
shocked.]
GUARD
I'm sorry, sire. Forgive me.
KING ARTHUR
No harm done.
[The guard bows and turns back to continue his patrol. Arthur waits for the guard
to leave, then continues on to Gwen's and knocks on her door. Gwen opens the door
and smiles.]
GWEN
Arthur.
KING ARTHUR
May I come in?
GWEN
Of course.
--
[16:44, GWEN'S HOUSE - NIGHT]
GWEN
Can I get you anything? Something to eat?
KING ARTHUR
I'm fine, thanks.
[Arthur closes the door and turns to face her.]
KING ARTHUR
I won't be staying long.
GWEN
Oh.
[Arthur stands awkwardly and Gwen waits with a smile.]
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere...please believe me when I say that you've done nothing wrong.
[Gwen furrows her eyebrows.]
KING ARTHUR
And that none of this...has anything to do with you.
GWEN (confused)
None of what? I don't understand.
KING ARTHUR
Things have changed for me. With my father gone, it falls to me to rule this land.
GWEN
I know what a responsibility that must be.
KING ARTHUR
And now that I'm king...it's no longer relevant what I may or may not want for
myself.
[Gwen is beginning to understand.]
KING ARTHUR
My only duty is to the people of this land. I'll be judged by my actions. Who I'm
seen with.
GWEN (surprised and hurt)

You're ashamed to be seen with me?
KING ARTHUR
No.
[Arthur shakes his head, beginning to have difficulty keeping his composure.]
KING ARTHUR
No. But now that I'm king, it's not appropriate.
GWEN (more surprised and hurt)

I'm not appropriate?
KING ARTHUR
It seems not.
[Gwen walks up to Arthur, disbelieving what she's hearing.]
GWEN
Arthur...listen to yourself. This doesn't sound like the man I know. You've been
talked into this, haven't you?
KING ARTHUR
I haven't been talked into anything. I'm my own man. I make my own decisions.
GWEN (beginning to cry)

And you decided we can't be together?
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
GWEN
I see.
[Gwen looks at Arthur, not hiding her tears or pain.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm sorry, Guinevere. It's just the way it has to be.
GWEN
Arthur.
[Arthur stops with his hand on the door handle and looks at her.]
GWEN
Don't let anyone tell you what to do. You said you are your own man. You have a
good heart. Be true to it. Only then will you be the king you want to be.
[Arthur considers her for a moment, then exits.]
--
[19:12, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Arthur descends the steps to his assembled army. They ride out of the city. Gwen
and Gaius watch from the a corridor window.]
GAIUS
Don't worry, Gwen. They'll be back soon, I'm sure.
GUINEVERE
It's different this time, though, isn't it? Arthur's king now. The fate of Camelot
rests on shoulders alone.
GAIUS
Oh, he's not alone, Gwen. You above all people should know that.
GUINEVERE
I do know that, but I'm not sure he does.
--
[19:58, EXT. CAMELOT, RIDGE - DAY]
[Arthur stands alone on the edge of the cliff, looking out at the enemy's army.
Agravaine steps up beside him.]
KING ARTHUR
Make sure the men have everything they need. They must be well rested by morning.
AGRAVAINE
I'll see to it, sire.
KING ARTHUR
The battle commences at first light.
[Agravaine smirks and walks off.]
--
[20:34, EXT. CAMELOT CAMP - NIGHT]
[Arthur watches his Round Table from his tent as they talk around the campfire.
Leon tussles Merlin's hair and the knights chuckle.]
SIR ELYAN
...an army.
[Percival and Elyan toast their tankards. He clearly longs for their camaraderie.
Merlin notices Arthur watching and his smile fades slightly. The others notice and
look over. Arthur is caught and tries to cover.]
KING ARTHUR
We should all get some sleep.
[Arthur turns back into his tent.]
SIR GWAINE
Is he all right?
MERLIN
He's our king. If anything were to happen to any of us, he'll hold himself
responsible.
[Gwaine nods as the all take in Merlin's words.]
--
[21:17, CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - NIGHT]
[Arthur is contemplative while Merlin tends to Arthur's spare armour. Elyan leads
the Round Table Knights as they enter purposefully.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan?
SIR ELYAN
Sire.
[Elyan looks at the other knights.]
KING ARTHUR
Well?
SIR ELYAN
We just want you to know there isn't a man among us who would not die for you. We
made our pledge, and we wear the Pendragon crest with pride. Tomorrow, we fight in
your name, sire. For freedom and justice in this land.
[Arthur is touched.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Elyan. Thank you all.
[They all nod and exit. Arthur seems disturbed.]
MERLIN
They mean it, sire. Every word.
KING ARTHUR
I've never once questioned their loyalty. I do wonder if I deserve it.
MERLIN
No one could care more for their men that you do. To send them into battle is not a
decision that you would make lightly, and they know that.
KING ARTHUR
But was it the right decision?
MERLIN
If there was any other way out of this situation, you would take it. But you must
defend Camelot. You have no choice.
KING ARTHUR
I had a choice...to let Caerleon live or die. I made the wrong decision. And now
I've brought this war upon Camelot myself.
MERLIN
Arthur...no one is prepared to sacrifice more for the sake of this kingdom than
you. Your decision was made in the best interests of Camelot.
KING ARTHUR
Maybe. Now my men must pay for it with their lives.
--
[Arthur exits his tent, dressed in a shabby brown cloak, and walks past his
sleeping men. Merlin wakes and sees him heading off somewhere. Merlin gets up to
follow. He trips over someone's foot and stumbles into a tent. Arthur hears the
noise and turns around. Merlin peeks out of the tent, waits for Arthur to continue,
then follows. Arthur walks down to the sentry's stationed at the enemy camp.]
SENTRY
Halt!
[Arthur opens his cloak. Merlin watches from above.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm unarmed.
[Arthur pulls off the cloak and drops it on the ground.]
KING ARTHUR
You know who I am. Take me to your queen.
[Merlin watches Arthur allows himself to be taken into the enemy camp. He follows.]
--
[24:36, INT. ENEMY CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - NIGHT]
[The sentries bring Arthur into the tent.]
QUEEN ANNIS
What is the meaning of this?
KING ARTHUR
Your Highness, I'm here to--
[Annis slaps him.]
KING ARTHUR
Your Highness, I know that you feel nothing but contempt for me. You feel I've done
you a grievous wrong, and you would be right.
[Merlin peeks through the tent seam.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm ashamed of what I did. It was cowardly, it was unjust, and I am deeply sorry.
QUEEN ANNIS
Sorry does not bring back my husband. Sorry does not give my people back their
king.
KING ARTHUR
I realise that. I know there's nothing I can do to repair that loss.
QUEEN ANNIS
Then what are you doing here, Arthur Pendragon?
KING ARTHUR
I want to call off the battle.
QUEEN ANNIS
It's a little too late for that.
KING ARTHUR
I don't propose a truce, but an alternative. I invoke the right of single combat.
Two champions to settle this matter between them.
QUEEN ANNIS
And why should I grant you this favour?
KING ARTHUR
There's been bloodshed enough already, Your Highness. Many hundreds of lives will
be saved this way.
[Annis nods for her men to release Arthur's arms.]

QUEEN ANNIS
And your terms?
KING ARTHUR
If my man wins, you must withdraw your army.
QUEEN ANNIS
And if mine is the victor?
KING ARTHUR
Then half of all Camelot is yours.
[A guard brings Merlin into the tent and shoves him to his knees. Arthur is
dumbfounded.]
MERLIN
Sorry about this.
QUEEN ANNIS
You know him?
KING ARTHUR
He's my servant, he must've followed me here. I--I knew nothing about it.
QUEEN ANNIS
Kill him.
KING ARTHUR
Wait. Please. Let him go. He's just...a simpleminded fool.
QUEEN ANNIS
That is two favours you've asked of me this night, Arthur Pendragon.
[Queen Annis turns and sits on her throne, considering Merlin. Tension as Arthur
waits for her decision.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Very well. You shall have your trial by combat.
[Arthur is relieved.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Announce your champion by noon tomorrow.
[Arthur bows.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Your Highness.
QUEEN ANNIS
And take your fool with you.
[Arthur nods.]
--
[Arthur and Merlin return to camp. Arthur is not happy.]
MERLIN
Simpleminded fool?
KING ARTHUR
Oh, I was being kind, believe me. You almost got me killed in there.
MERLIN
Me? You seem to be doing a pretty good job of that yourself.
KING ARTHUR
What is wrong with you? Why can you never just let me be?
MERLIN
I'm your friend! I was looking out for you.
KING ARTHUR
I appreciate that, in your very confused way, you're only trying to help. But,
please, don't do it again.
--
[27:13, INT. CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - DAY]
SIR LEON
But, sire, we can win this battle. I know we can.
KING ARTHUR
I don't doubt it. But at what cost? How many men will be slaughtered?
SIR ELYAN
And what if we were to lose this trial? We can't give up our land.
KING ARTHUR
That's the deal I've struck. I believe it to be fair, and I'll stand by it.
AGRAVAINE
Well, then. All that remains, my lord, is for you to choose your champion.
[The Round Table Knights all step forward.]
SIR PERCIVAL
It would be a privilege, sire.
[Elyan steps up to take the challenge, too.]
SIR ELYAN
Sire.
KING ARTHUR
There can only be one choice. One choice which is just and honourable. This fight's
mine.
[The knights are not pleased by this, but they can't object to their king.
Agravaine is very pleased.]
--
[27:52, INT. ENEMY CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - DAY]
QUEEN ANNIS
I don't like it. It must be a trick.
MORGANA
What concerns you, Your Highness?
QUEEN ANNIS
Arthur. Why would he choose himself as the champion?
MORGANA
Because he's Arthur. He'll always risk his own life before those of his men. Trust
me, it's no trick. Arthur will fight.
QUEEN ANNIS
It's as if you were pleased, Morgana. Whatever else he is, Arthur is a great
warrior. You have as much to lose as I if he wins. You desire the throne of
Camelot, do you not?
MORGANA (enraged)
I don't deny it. It's rightfully mine, after all.
[Annis considers Morgana's emotional response. Morgana calms herself.]
MORGANA
Arthur will not win.
QUEEN ANNIS
How can you possibly know that?
MORGANA
Because I have the power to ensure that he doesn't.
QUEEN ANNIS
Then you must use it.
[Morgana smiles and nods.]
--
[28:50, INT. CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - NIGHT]
[Agravaine takes Arthur's sword while he sleeps.]
--
[Agravaine sneaks through the woods with the sword. He checks for any pursuers,
then turns and is surprised to find Morgana standing there.]
AGRAVAINE
Morgana.
MORGANA
Did you get it?
AGRAVAINE
Of course.
[Morgana draws the sword. She kneels down in the middle of three small fires and
enchants the sword.]
MORGANA
Efencume ætgædre, eala gastas cræft ige. Hige hefe. Hefe mæst sara. Fornéðe þas,
ende hie æra.
[Morgana's eyes glow. She raised the sword by the hilt and the blade bursts into
flame.]
MORGANA
Efencume þonne swæs bora!
[Agravaine stands in awe. The flames disappear and Morgana lowers the sword.
Agravaine regards her. She smiles.]
MORGANA
Arthur's as good as dead.
--
[30:20, INT. CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - DAWN]
[Merlin helps Arthur with his armour.]
KING ARTHUR
Not too tight, Merlin, you don't want to kill me before I've even started.
MERLIN (chuckle)
Sorry.
[Arthur takes off his left glove and pulls off his ring. He turns to Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
If this day should prove to be my last, give this to Guinevere.
[Arthur hands Merlin the ring. Merlin up sharply.]
KING ARTHUR
Tell her I'm sorry.
MERLIN (nods)
Of course.
[Arthur puts his glove back on.]
MERLIN
Arthur, do you really think this is worth the risk? You're king now. Camelot needs
you. Alive.
KING ARTHUR
I don't know what will happen. But for the first time since I became king, I know
in my heart I've made the right decision.
[Arthur smiles.]
MERLIN
Well, whatever happens out there...erm...
KING ARTHUR
You're not about to start crying on me, are you?
MERLIN
No. Just, er, good luck.
[They smile.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, old friend.
[They shake hands. Agravaine enters.]
AGRAVAINE
It is time, my lord.
KING ARTHUR
Very well.
[Arthur doesn't move.]
AGRAVAINE
Is all in readiness.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin?
[Arthur stands for Merlin's inspection.]
MERLIN
Ready.
[Arthur nods and draws the now-cursed sword. Agravaine smiles as Arthur inspects
it.]
KING ARTHUR
Right, then.
[Arthur and Agravaine exit.]
--
[32:09, INT. ENEMY CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - DAY]
[The camera pans up the full length of a mean looking giant.]
QUEEN ANNIS
You have served my husband well, Darian. I know you'll do the same for me.
MORGANA
And Darian, no pity, no quarter. Do not hesitate for one second. Arthur Pendragon
must die.
[Darian grins menacingly.]
--
[32:39, EXT. CAMELOT, RIDGE - DAY]
[The armies of Camelot and Caerleon face each other. Darian and Arthur walk to the
centre of the gap. Arthur looks up at the giant. Darian bears his teeth. Morgana
watches from Caerleon's lines. Agravaine grins in Camelot's front line. The fight
begins. Darian eventually knocks Arthur to his knees. Arthur rolls out from the
blow and slices Darian's cheek. Darian checks for blood and howls, enraged.]
MORGANA
This has gone on long enough.
[Annis turns her head to listen.]
MORGANA
Time to turn the tide. I've enchanted Arthur's sword. It holds the weight of a
thousand ages. No one could bear it for long.
[Morgana's eyes glow. Arthur's sword drops like lead behind him. He looks at it,
unable to lift it. Darian swings and misses on the down sweep. Arthur punches
Darian's face and gets caught on the upsweep of Darian's sword. He cries out in
pain. He tries to lift his sword again. Darian begins to strike, but Merlin's eyes
glow and Darian freezes mid-swing. Arthur leaves his sword and rams his shoulder
into Darian, knocking him over and falling. Morgana is confused. Darian gets up
first and kicks Arthur over. Darian picks up his sword and Merlin panics. Morgana
and Agravaine smirk. Annis waits. Arthur lies almost helpless and Darian raises his
sword over his head.]
MERLIN
*spell*
[The sword drops out of Darian's hands into the ground behind him and he freezes.
Arthur rolls up behind Darian, grabs the sword and slices across Darian's back. The
giant falls to his knees and Arthur kicks him down. Arthur is poised to strike. He
looks up at his men on the ridge. Merlin looks on tensely. Arthur looks down at his
fallen enemy and runs the sword into the ground by Darian's head. Arthur's army
bursts out cheering.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Long live the king!
[Agravaine is shocked and disappointed as he joins the applause. The Camelot army
bursts into.]
KNIGHT
Long live the king!
ARMY
Long live the king! Long live the king! Long live the king!
[Queen Annis heads toward the champions. Morgana turns with a scowl and disappears
into Caerleon's army. Annis approaches Arthur.]
QUEEN ANNIS
You are victorious, Arthur Pendragon. And you may rest assured that I shall comply
absolutely with the terms of our agreement.
[Arthur holds himself with dignity.]
QUEEN ANNIS
My army will be gone by nightfall.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Your Highness.
[Annis holds out her hand and Arthur grasps it.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Tell me something. You spared my champion. Why?
KING ARTHUR
Because it's not victory I seek. It is peace. I hope that today will mark a new
beginning for our kingdoms.
QUEEN ANNIS
There is something about you, Arthur Pendragon. Something which gives me hope for
us all.
[She considers him for a moment, then turns to leave.]
--
[37:31, INT. CARLEON'S CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - DAY]
[Queen Annis and her men pack up her tent. Morgana enters.]
QUEEN ANNIS
It seems you do not have the power after all, Morgana. Arthur was made of sterner
stuff than you imagined.
MORGANA
There will be other opportunities, Your Highness, and next time he won't be so
lucky.
QUEEN ANNIS
There won't be a next time. Not for me, anyway.
MORGANA
QUEEN ANNIS
I believe I may have misjudged our young king.
MORGANA (scoffs)
Don't be taken in by his fine words.
QUEEN ANNIS
It wasn't Arthur who misled me. It was you. You are consumed by bitterness,
Morgana. It spreads within you like a disease. In my grief, I let you infect me
with your hate.
MORGANA
That is untrue. Have you forgotten how Arthur killed your husband? Do you not deny
that you sought revenge?
QUEEN ANNIS
Yes, I sought revenge. But that does not mean it was the right thing to do.
MORGANA (laughs/scoffs)
You are weak, Annis, as I thought you were. Go ahead. Make peace with Arthur. But I
will not rest until all of Camelot bows before me.
[Morgana turns to leave.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Morgana...
[Morgana turns around.]
QUEEN ANNIS
You came to me in the name of Gorlois, but I fear you're more like Uther than you
realise.
[Morgana glares at Annis and stalks out of the tent.]
--
[39:04, EXT. CAMELOT, LOWER TOWN - DAY]
[Arthur and his knights ride triumphantly into Camelot, bells ringing, streamers
hung, flags waving, cheering crowds.]
--
[39:20, EXT. CAMELOT, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
MERLIN
You're a hero.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Not to me. To your people.
KING ARTHUR
Right. You think different?
MERLIN
Maybe I know something they don't.
KING ARTHUR
Which is?
MERLIN
You know. That you're a cabbage head.
[Arthur gives his usual puzzled expression, then considers the insult.]
KING ARTHUR
Maybe. I should've listened to you, Merlin. Just this once, I think you were right.
Even if you are the worst servant in the five kingdoms.
[Arthur dismounts and Merlin chuckles. The courtiers applaud as Arthur climbs the
steps into the palace.]
--
[39:58, INT. KING'S PALACE, ATHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Arthur lies in bed, staring at the ceiling. Someone knocks at the door.]
KING ARTHUR
Come.
[Gwen enters with a pitcher. Arthur pauses when he sees it's her.]
KING ARTHUR
Gwen.
GWEN (nods)
Sire.
[Arthur grabs a bundle of flowers from under a pillow and climbs out of bed.]
KING ARTHUR
These...
[He hurries out to her and presents her with the tiny purple bouquet, which flops
limply.]
KING ARTHUR
Are for you.
[She looks at him, looks at the flowers, and takes them ungratefully. Arthur
continues cheerfully.]
KING ARTHUR
They're not much, I know. I...picked them by the side of a road.
GWEN
Thank you sire, but...I don't know what they're for.
KING ARTHUR
They're to say, "I'm sorry Guinevere."
GWEN
You don't need to apologize. I understand why things have to be the way they are.
KING ARTHUR (playfully)

Mm. A good king should...respect the traditions of the past, as my father did.
GWEN (morosely)
I know that.
KING ARTHUR
But a good king should also...
[He takes an amorous step towards her.]
KING ARTHUR
Be true to himself...and do as he sees fit...
[He takes another amorous step towards her.]
KING ARTHUR
And be seen with those who he cares for.
[He gives her a significant look. She looks at him hopefully.]
GWEN
Even if they're not...appropriate?
[Arthur grabs her waist and pulls her to him. He kisses her dramatically, then
looks down at her, head tilted playfully.]
KING ARTHUR
Does that answer your question?
[Gwen catches his mood and serves it right back.]
GWEN
It's a start.
[The grin at each other, then kiss passionately. Sunlight streams through the
windows behind them.]
-----------------------------------------------
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November 26 2011, 03:57

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BBC Merlin: 4x06 A Servant of Two Masters
KILGHARRAH
--
[Merlin, Arthur, and the Round Table Knights ride though the woods to dramatic
music. They slow to a walk and the music slows too. Merlin catches sight of the
king's stone head in the grass.]
MERLIN
Arthur. You are not serious.
KING ARTHUR
What else do you have in mind?
MERLIN
Anything. Nothing good ever happens in the Valley of the Fallen Kings. No one in
their right mind would go in there.
SIR PERCIVAL
Exactly.
KING ARTHUR
The route's a secret, Merlin. That's why we chose it.
[A band of armed men rushes down the hillside yelling.]
MERLIN
Not so secret after all.
[Arthur throws off his cloak.]
KING ARTHUR
No need to get cocky!
[More men rush down from the other hillside. The knights draw their swords. Cavalry
charges them from behind.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Ya!
[Percival charges and cuts a man down from his horse. The man tucks and rolls to
his death. Arthur fights with a man on foot and is pulled off his horse. Arthur
cuts him down and fends off another attacker, but Merlin dismounts as he sees a
horseman charging Arthur from behind.]
MERLIN
Arthur!
[Merlin holds out a hand, his eyes glow, and the horseman falls off and is dragged
behind his horse. Arthur finishes off his attacker. Merlin turns just in time to
see a horseman swing a mace into his chest. Arthur slices another attacker and
stops in horror when he sees Merlin sprawled limply face first on the ground.]
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[Arthur supports Merlin's weight as they hurry through the forest, pursued by the
mercenaries. They hide behind some tree roots and the pursuers pass by.]
MERLIN
They need to work through their anger.
KING ARTHUR
They just did. On you.
[Merlin chuckles through his pain. Arthur looks disconcerted by Merlin's

condition.]
--
[02:40, EXT. VALLEY OF THE FALLEN KINGS - NIGHT]
[Arthur supports Merlin's weight as they make their way through the forest.]
KING ARTHUR
A night's rest and you'll be polishing my armour. They could definitely do with a
scrub.
[Arthur eases Merlin down against a fallen log, takes off his glove and checks
Merlin's wound. Merlin looks at the wound and up at Arthur, struck by the role
reversal. Arthur tries to make light of it to cover how bad it looks.]
KING ARTHUR
I've seen worse. I've definitely seen worse.
MERLIN
Not a dead man?
KING ARTHUR
You're not going to die, Merlin. Don't be such a coward.
MERLIN
If I do die, will you call me a hero?
KING ARTHUR
Probably.
MERLIN
But whilst I'm still alive, I'm a coward?
KING ARTHUR
That's the way these things work, I'm afraid. You get the glory when you're not
around to appreciate it.
MERLIN
Well...unless you're the king.
KING ARTHUR
Come on, it's got to have some advantages.
MERLIN
You have a very good servant.
[Merlin smiles at his joke, but can't block out the pain.]
KING ARTHUR
You're right. I do. A servant who's extremely brave. And incredibly loyal, to be
honest. Not at all cowardly.
[They share a poignant look.]
MERLIN
Thank you for saving my life.
KING ARTHUR
You'd do the same for me.
--
[Birds chirp. Arthur starts as he hears twigs crack and a bird take flight. He
looks over at Merlin who is still lying in pain. Arthur gets up sharply and
sheathes his sword.]
KING ARTHUR
I'd love to say we can stay here and rest, but another ten minutes, we'll be
mercenary mincemeat.
[He pulls Merlin up by the arm and lifts him into a fireman's carry.]
MERLIN
Leave me.
KING ARTHUR
Now's not the time for jokes.
MERLIN
Please leave me.
KING ARTHUR
Sure. Whatever you say.
[Arthur ignores him and heads off with Merlin on his back. Arthur comes to a set of
stairs in a crevice and sees a mercenary at the other end. He sets Merlin down, who
grunts in pain, and draws his sword. Arthur fights the mercenary. Another mercenary
runs past Merlin and comes at Arthur from behind. Arthur kills the two men, but
many more run past Merlin and rush into the crevice after Arthur. Arthur braces
himself for the battle, but Merlin sits up.]
MERLIN
Gewican ge stanas!
[Merlin's eyes glow and boulders fall into the crevice, cutting off the
mercenaries. Arthur realises he's being cut off from Merlin and panics.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Boulders entirely fill the crevice. Merlin lies back exhausted and mercenaries
pick him up.]
--
[Agravaine leads the mercenaries as they drag Merlin unconscious to Morgana's
feet.]
MORGANA
You lost how many men? And you bring me how many men? Or should I say, how many
servants?
[Morgana angrily kicks Merlin over.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur was within our grasp.
MORGANA
Oh, and that's supposed to make me feel better?
AGRAVAINE
The rock fall was hardly our fault. I must show my presence in Camelot. The old
physician already suspects me.
MORGANA
Oh, Gaius is shrewd, you should take care. After all, if your true nature's
revealed, I really don't know what use I'll have for you.
AGRAVAINE
Morgana...
[She turns away. He stops.]
AGRAVAINE
I'll dispatch this servant.
[Agravaine draws his sword and poises to strike.]
MORGANA
You will do no such thing. Arthur is strangely fond of the boy. He could prove
useful. Very useful, indeed.
[Morgana walks off with a smile.]
--
[06:20, INT. MORGANA'S HOVEL - DAY]
[Morgana douses Merlin with a bucket of water and he jolts awake, hanging from the
ceiling by his wrists.]
MORGANA
Good morning.
MERLIN
Is it?
MORGANA
Oh, don't be like that. We have a lot of catching up to do. After all, I haven't
seen you since you condemned my sister to a slow and painful death, thwarted my
plans to take over Camelot, and forced me to live in a hovel.
MERLIN
Couldn't do me a favour, could you? Let Arthur know he still thinks of me of an
underachiever, but I'm quite proud of those accomplishments. I can die happy.
MORGANA
Oh, you're not going to die. Oh, no. I'm not going to make it that easy.
--
[The Round Table knights search the woods. Leon directs the search, but hears
something behind him and turns to attack. Arthur parries his swing. Leon smiles in
relief.]
KING ARTHUR
Nice to see you, too.
[They clasp arms.]
--
[The knights ride into Camelot.]
--
[07:33, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - DAY]
[Gaius enters. The knights, Arthur, and Guinevere are already gathered.]
GAIUS
Where's Merlin?
KING ARTHUR
He's alive. Last I saw of him, he was still alive. (to Sir Leon) Dispatch patrols
at first light. Scour every inch of that forest.
SIR LEON
Yes, sire.
[Leon and the knights exit.]
KING ARTHUR
We'll find him, Gaius.
[Arthur places a comforting hand on Gaius's shoulder.]
KING ARTHUR
We will.
--
[07:57, INT. MORGANA'S HOVEL - NIGHT]
MORGANA
You know, there's one thing I don't understand, Merlin.
[Morgana cleans Merlin's wound.]
MORGANA
You're Arthur's servant, nothing more. Yet, time and again, you've proved yourself
willing to lay down your life for him.
MERLIN
What are you doing?
MORGANA
Have you never seen Gaius clean a wound before?
MERLIN
All right, I know what you're doing. What I don't know is why.
[Morgana grabs his face.]
MORGANA
I believe I asked you a question first. Why are you so loyal to Arthur?
MERLIN
I don't expect you to understand, Morgana. You have no sense of duty, no sense of
loyalty.
MORGANA
You're wrong. Don't think I don't understand loyalty just because I've got no one
left to be loyal to.
[Morgana places her hand over Merlin's wound.]
MORGANA
Ic ðe ðurhhæle ðinu licsar mid ðam sundorcræft ðære ealdan æ. Drycræft ðurhhæle
ðina wunda! [...?]
[Morgana's eyes glow. She grabs Merlin's face again and shoves him as he falls
unconscious.]
--
[Agravaine and Sir Leon give their report to the council.]
AGRAVAINE
We have scoured the forest.
KING ARTHUR
Scour it again.
SIR LEON
Sire, there is no sign of Merlin.
[Agravaine approaches Arthur.]
AGRAVAINE
None...but...this.
[Agravaine places a scrap of Merlin's bloody jacket on the map in front of Arthur.
Arthur stares at it.]
AGRAVAINE
I am sorry you've lost such a loyal and...
[Arthur holds up a hand, stopping him.]
KING ARTHUR
The mercenaries, what news of them?
SIR LEON
We found no trace.
AGRAVAINE
Surely sent by that snake Alinor.
KING ARTHUR
It can't be. How? Our route was known only to a few within Camelot.
SIR LEON
Then there's only one conclusion we can draw.
[He has the council's attention.]
SIR LEON
We have a traitor in our midst.
[Gaius looks slowly at Agravaine.]
--
[Morgana holds up a medallion with a snake-tree on it and incants a spell.]
MORGANA
Astige ðu wyrm fah ond geþéowe ðæt mod ðisse þeowes. Hine bind ond ða heold.
Awendaþ he ealle!
[Morgana's eyes glow and she casts the medallion in the flames. A hiss rises out of
the metal bowl as the flames disappear. The snake-tree has come to life. Morgana
smiles.]
MORGANA
I take it you've never met a Fomorroh before.
[The Fomorroh hisses and Morgana giggles evilly.]
MORGANA
Aw, he's a little grumpy.
[Morgana pets the Fomorroh.]
MORGANA
He's not used to being out in the light. No, my friend, I've called you from your
depths for a very good reason.
[Morgana takes a dagger and slices off one of the Fomorroh's heads. It writhes,
still alive, and another head grows back on the main body. Merlin looks on,
unsettled.]
MORGANA
Fomorroh are creatures of dark magic. Even if you cut off their heads, you cannot
kill them. Another will just grow in its place.
[Merlin glares at Morgana, dreading what's coming.]
MORGANA
In the days of the Old Religion, they were revered by the High Priestesses as they
allowed them to control people's minds.
[Morgana approaches Merlin menacingly and he glares at her, disgusted.]
MORGANA
The Fomorroh will suck the life force out of you. Everything that makes you Merlin
will be gone. And in its place there will be just one thought . One thought that
will grow until it's consumed you completely. One thought that will be your life's
work. You will not be able to rest until it's done. And that one thought is simple.
"You must kill Arthur Pendragon."
[Morgana places the Fomorroh at Merlin's neck and it burrows into it, making him
writhe in pain. It squirms under the surface of his skin.]
--
[The sun rises over Camelot. Morning bells ring in the city.]
--
[Arthur stirs groggily as a rooster crows, joining in the morning bells. He opens
his eyes to see a blurry vision that looks like a general outline of Merlin. He
sits on his elbows and opens his eyes to focus and sees a very prim looking servant
waiting at the end of his bed, dressed much like Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
Who are you?
GEORGE
I am your new manservant, sire. I have polished your armour, sharpened your sword,
selected your clothes. There is a slight chill in the air today, sir. And now, if
you would allow me, I would like to serve you breakfast.
[Arthur looks over at the table and sees it covered in bread and fruit.]
KING ARTHUR
What's your name?
GEORGE
George, sire, at your service.
[George unfolds a napkin and places it over Arthur's chest as he lies in bed.]
KING ARTHUR
George, listen George, this is all very impressive.
[George places an extra pillow behind Arthur's head.]
KING ARTHUR
Very impressive, indeed, but I already have a manservant. All right, he's shabby
looking, he has appalling manners...
[George hands Arthur a goblet.]
KING ARTHUR
...he's extremely forgetful. He seems to spend most of his time in the tavern.
[George hands him a plate.]
KING ARTHUR
But he is...
[Arthur looks at the cup and plate in his hand and George fetches a fork.]
KING ARTHUR
My manservant.
[Arthur hands the plate and cup back to George.]
KING ARTHUR
To be honest, I quite like it that way.
[Arthur tosses the napkin at George and scrambles out of bed, leaving George
confused.]
--
[13:36, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
[Gwen follows Arthur out of the palace.]
GWEN
I am as worried about Merlin as you are.
KING ARTHUR
You're not going to change my mind.
GWEN
Who knows if the mercenaries have even left the forest?
KING ARTHUR
I have to go.
GWEN
The patrol's found no sign of him.
KING ARTHUR
Do you really expect me to accept that? Just to sit here and take their word that
Merlin's gone? I won't rest until I at least try.
GWEN
I know, but just...do one thing for me. Please don't go alone.
SIR GWAINE
He won't be going alone.
[Gwaine rides up, ready to go. They turn to look at him.]
KING ARTHUR
See? Now you've condemned me to a day of mindless chatter.
GWEN
Good.
[Arthur places a comforting hand on her shoulder.]
KING ARTHUR
We'll return.
GWEN
You better.
[Arthur mounts and the two of them ride off.]
--
[Merlin awakens in the woods, completely covered in mud.]
SIR GWAINE
You know what I like about Merlin? He never expects any praise. All these things he
does just for the good of doing them.
[Arthur holds out his arm for silence, sensing something. They stop and dismount as
they hear someone and draw their swords.]
KING ARTHUR
Declare yourself.
[Merlin struggles out of the mud and steps onto the path. He laughs when he sees
Arthur and Gwaine. Arthur lowers his sword in surprise.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Arthur sticks his sword in the ground and walks over to Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
I thought we'd lost you! Haha!
[Arthur gives the extremely muddy Merlin a big hug.]
--
[15:31, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[The Fomorroh writhes under Merlin's skin. Gaius serves Merlin supper.]
GAIUS
Don't do that again, Merlin. My heart cannot take the strain.
MERLIN
Yes, well, you are getting on a bit.
[Gaius looks at Merlin in surprise.]
MERLIN
What is this?
GAIUS
It's a special welcome home. Your favourite.
[Merlin takes one sip of the soup and gags.]
MERLIN
I think that you should stick to cooking up potions, Gaius. This tastes like the
bog Arthur found me in.
[Gaius gives an uncertain chuckle.]
GAIUS
How did you escape?
MERLIN
With great skill. Can I ask you something?
GAIUS
Yes, of course. Anything.
MERLIN
What is the strongest poison that you posses?
[Gaius regards Merlin.]
MERLIN
I had this great opportunity to lace the bandits' food with poison and nothing to
do it with.
[Merlin gets up and walks over to a table full of potions.]
GAIUS
Well, that would be aconite.
MERLIN
Ah--conite.
[Merlin spots it on the table and takes the bottle.]
MERLIN
Well, I think I should take some of this with me from now on. You never know when
you might need to kill someone.
[Merlin takes off and Gaius mulls over Merlin's curious behaviour.]
GAIUS
Indeed.
--
[16:32, INT. KING'S PALACE, KITCHENS - DAY]
[Merlin prepares Arthur's meal. He finishes it off by dousing it with aconite, then
places the bottle back in his jacket pocket. He bumps into the head cook.]
MERLIN
Mm. You stink worse than your food.
[One of the cook's assistants grins.]
HEAD COOK
Back to work. Or I'll be using your face to scrub that pot clean.
[The assistant turns back to her work.]
--
[16:54, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gwaine intercepts Merlin on his way to Arthur's chambers.]
GWAINE
Ah, Bog Man.
[Gwaine stops Merlin from passing as he sniffs the food.]
GWAINE
I have to say, you're smelling better.
[Gwaine pulls off his glove with his teeth and tries to take some food off of the
plate.]
MERLIN
This is food for the king of Camelot, and is not meant to be soiled by your filthy
fingers!
[Merlin is able to avoid Gwaine's grasp. Gwaine stares at Merlin as he grumpily

hurries off.]
--
[Merlin walks in to find Gwen already serving Arthur a meal.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Guinevere. That's very kind.
MERLIN
Oh, I might've known.
[Gwen pours Arthur's drink.]
KING ARTHUR
Hello, Merlin.
MERLIN
What's this?
KING ARTHUR
Er...lunch.
MERLIN (to Gwen)

Look, I know you like to take every opportunity to be by his side...
[Gwen's smile fades.]
MERLIN
But this is just getting ridiculous. You'll be pouring his bath water next.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, is something wrong?
MERLIN
This is what's wrong.
[Merlin points to the food Gwen brought.]
GWEN
I was just trying to help. I thought you needed some rest.
MERLIN
Rest? No, no, I don't need rest. Do you know how long it took me to prepare this
meal? I cooked it myself.
[Merlin switches the plates.]
KING ARTHUR
I think this is just a case of a simple misunderstanding.
[Arthur switches the plates back.]
MERLIN
Ah, yes. Well, you would take her side, wouldn't you?
KING ARTHUR
Excuse me? Merlin, I think you must be tired. You've been through quite an ordeal.
MERLIN
I just want to resume my normal duties.
KING ARTHUR
Well, I'll be pleased to have your assistance preparing for the knighting ceremony
later.
[Arthur hands Merlin's plate of food back to him.]
MERLIN
Thank you, sire.
[Merlin glares at Gwen. She gives an uncertain smile. Merlin starts to leave, turns
to say something, then thinks better of it and exits.]
--
[Merlin walks down the street and tosses the plate into a pigsty.]
--
[18:19, INT. PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin is pacing behind Gaius.]
GAIUS
Merlin, are you all right?
MERLIN
I--I'm pacing.
GAIUS
Yes, I can see that.
MERLIN
A man who is all right does not pace, Gaius.
GAIUS
Oh, well, that's why I asked.
MERLIN
I am wrestling with a problem and there are many factors to take into
consideration, and I have not yet come up with a solution.
GAIUS
Can I be of assistance?
MERLIN (scoffs/laughs)
No.
GAIUS
Would you like to share the problem with me?
MERLIN
No.
GAIUS
Sometimes two heads are better than one.
MERLIN
Yes. But not when one of them's yours.
--
[18:57, KING'S PALACE, ARMORY - DAY]
[Sir Leon puts away a sword and sees Merlin searching for something.]
SIR LEON
What are you after?
MERLIN
Arthur wants a crossbow.
SIR LEON
That one's ancient. Probably wouldn't hurt a fly.
[Merlin considers for a moment.]
MERLIN
Well, if you did want to hurt a fly, or even a human, what would you use?
SIR LEON
You would use a thing o beauty like this.
[Merlin is excited as Sir Leon pulls a shiny new crossbow off the wall.]
SIR LEON
Carved from fifty-year-old ash.
[Leon admires the crossbow, then hands it to Merlin with a smile. Merlin holds it
as if to fire it.]
SIR LEON
Erm, be careful with that--
[Merlin accidentally releases the arrow and it blows apart a barrel across the
room. Merlin stares open mouthed.]
MERLIN
Oh!
SIR LEON
Will that do the job?
[Merlin beams, excited.]
MERLIN
Oh, yes. That will do the job nicely.
[Merlin laughs gleefully.]
SIR LEON
Er, what is the job, exactly?
MERLIN (gleefully)
To kill Arthur.
SIR LEON
He's driving you mad, is he?
MERLIN (gleefully)
Not for much longer.
[Leon laughs as Merlin heads out with the crossbow and quiver.]
--
[Merlin sets up a crossbow booby-trap in Arthur's wardrobe. He tests it and the
arrow flies straight into the bedpost. Merlin sighs excitedly.]
KING ARTHUR
Talk about a bad use of time.
[Merlin uses the bed curtain to hide the arrow while he pulls it out.]
KING ARTHUR
There's a potential traitor in our midst and I have to prepare for a knighting
ceremony. Maybe it's one of the knights who wants to kill me.
[Merlin finally pulls out the arrow and closes the wardrobe.]
KING ARTHUR
Maybe it's you. Ha.
[Merlin tenses. Arthur notices.]
KING ARTHUR
Don't look so worried, Merlin. I don't really think you want to kill me.
--
[20:20, LOWER TOWN - DAY]
[Gwen walks by the pigsty and notices a crowd gathered around it. She skirts around
to find an opening and sees Arthur's silver platter next to half-eaten food and a
dead pig.]
--
[Gaius holds the chicken up to his nose and sniffs it.]
GAIUS
Aconite.
[Gwen doesn't recognise the name.]
GAIUS
Wolfsbane to you. The most deadly poison known to man.
GWEN
What was it doing on Arthur's food?
GAIUS
Merlin took some from here earlier.
GWEN
He was really angry when he realised Arthur wasn't going to eat it.
GAIUS
He has been behaving very strangely.
GWEN
But why would Merlin want to kill Arthur?
GAIUS
Merlin wouldn't. Not if he was in his right mind.
--
[Gwen and Gaius pass Leon in the hallway.]
GWEN
Have you seen Merlin?
SIR LEON
He was in the armoury.
GAIUS
What did he want in there?
SIR LEON (chuckles)

A crossbow. I think Arthur must be getting on his nerves.
GWEN
Why?
[Leon checks the corridor.]
SIR LEON (whisper)

He said he was going to kill him.
[Leon bursts out laughing and walks off. Gwen and Gaius exchange a worried look.]
--
[Merlin resets the wardrobe booby-trap while Arthur dresses.]
KING ARTHUR
What do you think about Percival?
MERLIN
Very big.
KING ARTHUR
Does that make him a traitor?
MERLIN
Are you going to get dressed?
[Arthur steps out from behind his dressing screen.]
KING ARTHUR
Have you got somewhere to be?
MERLIN
Percival's family were killed by Cenred's army. He hates everything to do with
Morgana.
KING ARTHUR
You're right. And he has pledged his allegiance.
[Arthur walks over to the wardrobe and pauses with his hand on the doorknob,
thinking. Merlin waits impatiently.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm wrong to doubt him. I need to put it from my mind.
[The Fomorroh writhes in Merlin's neck.]
MERLIN
You must get dressed.
KING ARTHUR
Indeed.
[Arthur opens the wardrobe, but the crossbow doesn't fire.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan didn't ride out with us.
[Merlin lets out his breath, surprised that it didn't fire. Arthur closes the
wardrobe and walks away.]
KING ARTHUR
Maybe he's concerned about my relationship with Guinevere.
[Arthur goes behind the dressing screen and Merlin stomps over to the wardrobe and
opens it, narrowly dodging the arrow as it shoots into the bedpost. Merlin pulls it
out.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan, could he be the traitor? My father killed his father. Could you get me my
ceremonial sword?
[Merlin gets an idea.]
MERLIN
Ceremonial sword. Of course.
[Merlin fetches it to kill Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
I find it hard to believe that Elyan would think ill of me, but...can't trust
anyone.
[Merlin tests out the sword.]
KING ARTHUR
In fact, I think you, Merlin, are the only person I can trust.
[Merlin raises the sword to strike just as Gwen and Gaius burst in.]
KING ARTHUR
I know, I'm late.
[Merlin rushes forward to attack, but Arthur moves and Merlin runs into the column
and falls over. Arthur turns around and sees Merlin on the floor unconscious. He
picks up the ceremonial sword, considers Merlin for a moment, and then strolls out.
Gwen gives Arthur a fake smile on his way out. Merlin wakes and Gwen smashes a
metal pitcher over his head, knocking him out again.]
--
[22:59, KING'S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Gaius reads an entry in a book as Gwen grimaces at the creature crawling under
Merlin's skin.]
GAIUS
I feared as much.
GWEN
What is it?
[Gaius hands her the book.]
GAIUS
It's a Fomorroh.
[She looks at the drawing of it in the book.]
GAIUS
Whoever put it there was very highly skilled.
GWEN
What does it do?
GAIUS
In the days of the Old Religion, they were used by the High Priestess to enslave
the minds of their enemies. Once a thought was planted, the victim would not stop
till they'd accomplished it. First we must paralyse the serpent.
[Gwen hands him a bowl and Gaius dabs a saturated pouch on Merlin's neck. The
Fomorroh grows still.]
GWEN
Is it dead?
GAIUS
Sadly not. Merely dormant. Now for the tricky bit. Pass me the blade.
[Gwen hands it to him. She grimaces as Gaius cuts it out. Gaius tosses it into the
fire.]
GWEN
That's it?
GAIUS
I believe so.
GWEN (relieved)
We have the old Merlin back. Arthur is safe once more.
GAIUS
Let us hope so.
--
[24:22, INT. KING'S PALACE, AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBER - EVENING]
[Arthur slowly enters gravely as Agravaine sits at his desk. Agravaine leans
forward and realises someone is there.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur.
[Agravaine stands.]
AGRAVAINE
What an unexpected pleasure.
KING ARTHUR
There's something I wish to discuss with you, Uncle.
[Arthur enters slowly, his hand on his sword.]
AGRAVAINE
Of course.
KING ARTHUR
I'm afraid I don't take the matter of the traitor as lightly as you do.
AGRAVAINE
Sire, I hope you don't think I meant--
[Arthur holds up a hand to stop him.]
KING ARTHUR
I have been looking into how the mercenaries discovered the route through the
forest. None of the knights had the opportunity to betray me. I have questioned the
councillors. Only three were aware of the treaty. Of those, none but yourself knew
of the route I was planning to take.
AGRAVAINE
Are you seriously suggesting that I--
KING ARTHUR
It brings me no pleasure to doubt you, Uncle.
AGRAVAINE
Then let me reassure you that you have no reason to doubt. You are all that is left
of my dear sister.
[Agravaine steps closer to Arthur.]
AGRAVAINE
If I betray you, Arthur, I betray her, and that I will never do.
[Arthur still isn't convinced.]
AGRAVAINE
There is one other person who knew your route. Gaius.
--
[The sun rises over Camelot.]
--
[Merlin emerges from his room with a smile he gathers supplies from Gaius's work
table. Gaius wakes. Merlin smiles.]
GAIUS
How do you feel?
MERLIN
Never better.
GAIUS
It's great to have you back.
[Merlin looks confused.]
GAIUS
What do you remember?
MERLIN
About what?
GAIUS
I take it that means nothing.
[Gaius spots the Fomorroh in Merlin's neck.]
MERLIN
I got a feeling today is going to be a good day.
[Gaius stares at Merlin as he leaves.]
--
KING ARTHUR
My father prepared me well for being king, but he told me nothing of the loneliness
of the job.
[Merlin pours Arthur's bath water.]
KING ARTHUR
What it's like to have all eyes on you, waiting for you to provide the answer.
[Merlin pulls out a bottle of salts.]
KING ARTHUR
In all the years I watched him, he never wavered in his certainty.
[Merlin uncorks the bottle and pours the salts in the water.]
KING ARTHUR
He was strong, he was sure. And I'm not in that place yet.
[The water foams and bubbles.]
--
[26:47, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gwen and Gaius hurry towards Arthur's chambers.]
KING ARTHUR
I value the guidance of others. Maybe I've been foolish to do so.
[Merlin places a sword in the bath water. He pulls it out and it's deformed. Those
weren't bath salts.]
KING ARTHUR
Everyone has their own agenda.
[Gwen enters with Gaius and sees Merlin with the deformed sword.]
KING ARTHUR
It feels like I can trust no one anymore.
[Gwen rushes forward and knocks Merlin out with the same pitcher. Merlin falls back
into Gaius's arms and Gaius hides him behind the column. Just then, Arthur chooses
to step out from behind the screen completely undressed.]
KING ARTHUR
Is that how you see it, Merlin? Guinevere!
[Arthur covers himself.]
GWEN
Arthur!
[Gwen tries to pretend there's nothing awry, then realises he's naked and averts
her eyes. He grabs a pillow from his bed and covers himself more effectively.
Arthur tries to act dignified.]
KING ARTHUR
Gaius.
[Gwen and Gaius just stand there, trying to think of a way out of this.]
KING ARTHUR
You're not Merlin.
GWEN
No. There was a problem with the bath water.
KING ARTHUR
Really?
GWEN
Yes. It's cold. Very cold.
[Arthur steps forward to look at it.]
GWEN (quickly)
Merlin's gone to remedy it. I don't think you can have a bath today!
[Arthur looks up sharply. Gwen tries to cover her panic with an awkward smile.
Arthur steps back.]
KING ARTHUR
Right... Good job I'm not very dirty, then.
GWEN (nervous laughter)

It's a good job indeed!
[Gaius chuckles with her, trying to hide and support Merlin behind the column.
Arthur nods awkwardly, waiting for them to leave. They don't. He side steps
awkwardly behind his dressing screen.]
--
[Merlin lies face down on a table while Gaius examines the revived Fomorroh.]
GWEN
So, let me get this straight. If you kill one, another grows in its place.
GAIUS
I've heard such stories in the past, but never thought they were true.
[Gaius dabs Merlin's neck with the paralyser concoction.]
GAIUS
That will silence it for a while.
[Gaius opens a smoking canister and holds it under Merlin's nose. He jerks awake,
coughing.]
MERLIN
What is that? Arthur's socks?
[Gwen smiles a little and Merlin takes in his situation.]
MERLIN
What are you trying to do to me?
GAIUS
I'm trying to stop you from killing the king.
MERLIN
Heh. Ooh.
[Merlin staggers as he feels something.]
--
[Merlin stuffs his face with berries.]
GAIUS
So, you don't remember anything?
MERLIN
I remember Morgana conjuring the snake, but...nothing more. No.
[Merlin flips through a book.]

GAIUS
Lucky for us you're such a bad assassin.
MERLIN
Well, all is well now. I feel fine.
GAIUS
For now the serpent is dormant and when it wakes, your mind will be Morgana's once
more and nothing will stop you from killing Arthur.
MERLIN
But how do we get rid of it, if it keeps growing back?
GAIUS
There's only one way, I'm afraid. You have to kill the mother beast.
MERLIN
That creature that lives in Morgana's hut?
[Gaius nods.]
MERLIN
Great. How long have I got? How long before this thing wakes up?
GAIUS
A day, no more. And I wouldn't face her alone.
MERLIN
Don't worry, I won't be there at all. Well, not exactly.
[Merlin picks up a potion bottle from another table.]
MERLIN
She won't recognise me if I'm eighty-years-old.
[Merlin hurries off.]
GAIUS
Well, what should I say if Arthur asks for you?
MERLIN
Er, tell him I'm anywhere.
[Merlin closes the door, then pops his head back in.]
MERLIN
Anywhere but the tavern.
--
[Merlin rides through the woods and dismounts. He ties his horse to a tree. And
ducks behind a tree to turn into Old Merlin.]
OLD MERLIN
Ah.
[Old Merlin walks back to the horse and tries to mount. He struggles, but it's too
much for him. Elyan, Leon, Gwaine, and Percival saunter up to him and Old Merlin
turns around.]
OLD MERLIN
Ah. Gentlemen. What a pleasant surprise.
SIR LEON
I wish we could say the same thing. Move away from the horse. Please.
OLD MERLIN
What lovely manners. I do admire a man who says "please".
SIR LEON
Now.
[Leon draws his sword and the others follow suit. Old Merlin moves away from the
horse and they surround him. Old Merlin regards Percival.]
OLD MERLIN
Have you got bigger?
SIR PERCIVAL
You'll be getting shorter if I have my way.
OLD MERLIN
Nice. I like it.
[Old Merlin spins around.]
OLD MERLIN
Leon, really. There must be something in the Knight's Code about how to treat an
old man.
SIR LEON
You're not just any old man, though, are you?
SIR GWAINE
You escaped the flames once, you won't escape again.
MERLIN
Sir! And you are not what you seem.
[Gwaine draws his sword.]
SIR GWAINE
What is he talking about? I'm a good mind to run you through right now.
[Leon puts out a hand.]
SIR LEON
I think Arthur would prefer to see him alive.
OLD MERLIN
Oh--oh-oh. No, really, Arthur doesn't not want to see me, believe me. In fact, if
Arthur does see me, he will be in grave danger.
[Elyan is the last to draw his sword.]
SIR ELYAN
Are you threatening the life of our king?
[Percival pokes Old Merlin in the back with his sword. He pokes him again.]
OLD MERLIN
Percival! That is a sword, it does hurt. Yes, I am afraid to say, if you don't let
me go, then there is every chance that I will KILL YOUR KING!
SIR GWAINE
Say that again!
OLD MERLIN
Why? Have you got ale in your ears?
[Gwaine yells and goes for the attack, but Old Merlin holds up a hand and stops him
dead in his tracks, knocking him out. Percival tries next, but Old Merlin breaks
his sword in half and magically shoves Percival and Leon into each other, then
throws them on top of Elyan.]
OLD MERLIN
Ha! Thank you, gentlemen.
[Merlin uses them as a set of stairs.]
OLD MERLIN
So considerate to help an old man.
[Old Merlin cackles as he climbs onto his horse and rides off.]
--
MORGANA
I trust you bring me news of my brother's untimely death?
AGRAVAINE
I wish it were so, my lady, but I do bring information of an equally enticing
nature. I have planted the seed of suspicion in our young king's mind. I've struck
a blow at the very heart of old Camelot.
MORGANA
Go on.
AGRAVAINE
Arthur grew unsure of my motives, but I've turned the situation to our advantage.
MORGANA
How so?
AGRAVAINE
I've used it to implicate an old friend of yours. Gaius.
[Morgana smiles.]
AGRAVAINE
I think there are some interesting times ahead for our physician.
[Agravaine goes to pour himself a drink.]
MORGANA
You have done well. But it's hardly information of an enticing kind, is it?
[Agravaine pauses.]
MORGANA
Is Gaius dead?
AGRAVAINE
No.
MORGANA
I Gaius mortally wounded? Does Gaius have so much as a sore head?
AGRAVAINE
No, my lady.
MORGANA
So, my lord...you can do better. And you will do better.
[Agravaine is surprised by Morgana's reaction.]
--
[33:38, EXT. MORGANA'S HOVEL - DAY]
[Old Merlin crawls to the edge of the ridge overlooking Morgana's hovel. He sees
her exit with Agravaine. Agravaine heads back to Camelot, but she walks off in the
opposite direction.]
--
[Old Merlin enters Morgana's hut and looks through her things. Morgana walks in
with some firewood. She looks up and sees Emrys. He snarls and she drops the
firewood and backs out quickly, terrified. He's surprised, thinks it over, and then
shrugs it off and continues searching. Morgana creeps back in slowly, shaking with
fear.]
MORGANA
You're not real.
OLD MERLIN
Whatever you say!
[She jerks at his barked out reply. He continues searching. She continues slowly
forward and pulls out a dagger. He finds the Fomorroh.]
MORGANA
You're just my imagination.
OLD MERLIN
That's right. I'm not really here. Just pretend that I'm not really here and I'll
just get this and go.
[Merlin grabs the jar with the Fomorroh and Morgana moves forward to strike him.
Before she goes two steps, his eyes glow and he tosses her backwards into a shelf,
knocking it over.]
--
[Old Merlin hurries off will the Fomorroh jar, but Morgana pursues him. She raises
her hand.]
MORGANA
Ablinn ðu, forlæte ðu!
[Old Merlin is knocked off his feet and the jar goes flying. Morgana smiles in
relief of her success. She hurries forward and pulls out her dagger confidently as
he lays there.]
MORGANA
So, Emrys, it seems you'll not be my doom after all.
[She raises the dagger to strike.]
OLD MERLIN
Forþ fleoge!
[Morgana is thrown backwards. She loses her dagger. They both lie there for a
moment, fighting back the pain. Merlin struggles to stand and walks over to her. He
raises a hand to curse her.]
MORGANA
If I'm to die by your hand, you can at least tell me who you are. Did Arthur send
you?
[Merlin regards her.]
MORGANA
But you're no friend of his. Magic has no place in Camelot. It never will. Not
until I take the throne.
[Merlin's scowl softens.]
MORGANA
Please spare me. I only want what is rightfully mine.
[Morgana's lost him.]
MORGANA
Perhaps it could still be so.
[Morgana flicks her hand and the dagger shoots from behind Old Merlin. He dodges
it, but Morgana sits up and her eyes glow and she throws him with a turn of her
head. He gasps in pain. She fetches the Fomorroh jar and begins to walk off.]
OLD MERLIN
Ic her aciege anne windræs!
[Old Merlin's spell begins a whirlwind.]
OLD MERLIN
Færblæd wawe! Windræs ungetermed - ge hiere!
[Morgana turns and sees what he's doing. She tries to raise a hand to stop it.]
OLD MERLIN
Ic ðe bebiede mid ealle strangnesse ðæt ðu geblæwest ond sierest strange! Ge spurne
þeos hægtesse!
[Now standing, hand raised, Old Merlin overpowers Morgana and forces the whirlwind
towards her. She is thrown through the air and lands unconscious. Old Merlin
collapses from the effort.]
--
[Old Merlin sits on a log and lights a fire with a flick of his hand. He removes
the lid from the Fomorroh jar and quickly tosses it into the fire.]
OLD MERLIN
Ontende þisne wyrm þæt he licgeþ unastyred a butan ende!
[The Fomorroh squeals and Merlin suddenly jerks as he feels it die in his neck. He
sighs in relief.]
--
GAIUS
This is becoming something of a habit.
MERLIN (chuckles)
I hope not.
[Gaius extracts the dead Fomorroh.]
GAIUS
Don't worry. It cannot grow back again.
[Merlin's feels the back of his neck painfully. Gwen enters happily.]
GWEN
Merlin.
[Merlin smiles.]
GWEN
You're back.
[She laughs in relief.]
GWEN
Dare I look?
MERLIN
Oh, it's-- don't worry, it's completely gone. I've no desire to kill Arthur.
GWEN
That's great news. Although, I'm afraid right now he does want to kill you.
[Merlin's smile turns into confusion.]
--
[Arthur beats his fingers on his arm rest.]
KING ARTHUR
Two whole days in the tavern.
[Merlin balks.]
MERLIN
I'm not quite sure it was that long.
KING ARTHUR
Give me one good reason why I shouldn't get rid of you on the spot.
MERLIN
Because you'd have no one to polish your armour, make you breakfast, organise your
clothes.
KING ARTHUR
Ah, well, that's where you're wrong. George!
[George enters primly.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, meet George. George is, perhaps, the most efficient servant I've ever seen.
He'll be spending the rest of the week teaching you.
MERLIN
Teaching me?
KING ARTHUR
If you wish to remain in my service.
GEORGE
We will start in the armoury. Lesson one is my favourite. Polishing.
[Arthur tries not to laugh.]
MERLIN
Yes, that's my favourite, too.
[George nods, then jerks his head to indicate Merlin should follow him. Merlin
stops at the door.]
MERLIN
Tell me something...
[Arthur puts on a mock-serious expression as Merlin walks back.]
MERLIN
If he's so good, why don't you just give him the job?
[Arthur drops the act.]
KING ARTHUR
He's seriously boring. I've never met anyone so dull. The man makes jokes about
brass.
[Arthur pats Merlin on the arm.]
KING ARTHUR
Anyway, off you go. It'll be fun.
[Arthur is enjoying this. Merlin gives a fake smile and nods and walks to the door.
He pauses to look back at Arthur who gives him a smug smile and nod and Merlin
exits with a grin.]
--
[40:52, EXT. FOREST]
[Agravaine rides hurriedly to Morgana's hovel.]
--
[Morgana's home is trashed when he arrives.]
AGRAVAINE
Morgan-- ?
[He stops at the sight of it, then walks in slowly, taking in the wreck.]
AGRAVAINE (worried)
Morgana!?
--
[Agravaine searches the woods nearby. He spots Morgana lying on the ground and
rushes to her. He turns her face toward him gently, clearly distraught. He carries
her through the woods.]
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November 26 2011, 04:03
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BBC Merlin: 4x07 The Secret Sharer
KILGHARRAH
--
[Agravaine strokes Morgana's cheek as she lies unconscious where he placed her on
her bed. He gets up and walks over to the fire. Just then Morgana stirs, dreaming.
We flash into her memory of Old Merlin in her house, stealing the Fomorroh. Flash
to her standing over him in the woods with the dagger.]
MORGANA
So, Emrys...
[Old Merlin throws her with magic. Flash to Old Merlin standing over her, hand
raised to strike with magic. She wakes, wide eyed and terrified, and sits up.
Agravaine looks over and sees her awake.]
AGRAVAINE
Morgana!
[He goes to her.]
AGRAVAINE
When I found you, you were unconscious in the woods. What happened to you? Morgana,
who did this to you?
MORGANA
Emrys.
AGRAVAINE
The old man? He was here?
MORGANA
He took the Fomorroh. He destroyed it.
AGRAVAINE
He knew of our plans to kill Arthur?
MORGANA
He knows all our plans. All our secrets. He knows everything.
AGRAVAINE
Someone's telling him.
[Agravaine thinks for a moment, then closes his eyes in realisation.]
AGRAVAINE
Oh. Gaius. When I first asked him if he knew Emrys, he claimed not to know, but he
was lying. I knew he was lying!
MORGANA
Gaius?
AGRAVAINE
He's the only one in Camelot who would know the Fomorroh. It has to be him.
[Morgana gets up from the bed, clearly disturbed by her thoughts.]
AGRAVAINE
He must be telling Emrys everything.
[Morgana recovers.]
MORGANA
Good. Then he can lead us straight to him.
AGRAVAINE
Gaius is loyal and very stubborn. He won't do that willingly.
MORGANA
Who said he had to be willing?
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[Merlin opens Arthur's curtains.]
MERLIN
Up you get.
KING ARTHUR
What for?
MERLIN
A bath.
KING ARTHUR
Where's breakfast?
MERLIN
Say, "Ah."
KING ARTHUR
Ah?
[Merlin stuffs a roll in Arthur's mouth.]
KING ARTHUR (muffled)

Merlin!
[Arthur pulls the roll out of his mouth and Merlin hurries to look over some
documents on the table.]
MERLIN
Set aside some practice time.
KING ARTHUR
Ah, wonderful. What for? Quarterstaff? Battle axe?
MERLIN
Your speech.
KING ARTHUR
Who to?
MERLIN
The Guild of Harness Polishers.
KING ARTHUR
The guild of who? I don't know anything about polishing.
MERLIN
Fortunately I do.
[Merlin holds up a really long scroll.]
KING ARTHUR
That'll take hours to learn.
MERLIN
You don't have hours. First, you have to receive Odin's envoy.
KING ARTHUR
Do I have to give a speech?
MERLIN
No. You have to listen to one.
[Arthur rolls his eyes.]
MERLIN
Then you need to inspect the guards, perform a freeman's ceremony, oh...and to be a
judge.
KING ARTHUR
Preside over a trial?
MERLIN
A garland competition.
[Arthur rolls his eyes again and flops his head back on his pillow.]
KING ARTHUR
There'll be any time to myself?
[Arthur curls back into his covers.]
MERLIN
I know, it's almost like having to work. Come on. You don't have time for this.
[Merlin goes over to the bed and grabs Arthur, trying to drag him out of bed.
Arthur struggles to stay under the covers.]
MERLIN
No, come on. No, out of bed.
[Arthur makes an odd squeal as Merlin forces him out of bed along with all his
covers.]
MERLIN
You're doing very well, Arthur.
KING ARTHUR
I don't think so.
[Merlin fetches Arthur's shirt.]
MERLIN
Everyone's saying it.
KING ARTHUR
I'm glad your friends at the tavern approve.
MERLIN
I'm serious. You're becoming a very good king.
[Merlin pulls Arthur to his feet.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you. You're still the worst servant I've ever known.
[Merlin hands Arthur his shirt. Someone knocks on the door.]
KING ARTHUR
Enter.
[Agravaine enters.]
AGRAVAINE
Good morning, my lord. May I have a word?
KING ARTHUR
Of course.
AGRAVAINE
Er, the matter I wish to discuss is a delicate one, sire. Perhaps it'd be better if
we talked alone.
--
[Morgana rides through the woods. She approaches a city on a peninsula.]
--
[Arthur dresses behind his screen.]
AGRAVAINE
We know there is a traitor amongst us.
KING ARTHUR
I wish I could deny it.
AGRAVAINE
But we have to consider everyone. Even those dearest to us. No one can be above
suspicion.
KING ARTHUR
Of course.
AGRAVAINE
So...one of your knights?
KING ARTHUR
No.
AGRAVAINE
You sure?
KING ARTHUR
I would vouch for each and every one of them.
AGRAVAINE
Well, I have suggested Gaius before, but...I can't believe that he'd betray you.
KING ARTHUR
Nor I. Gaius has always been a loyal servant. Indeed, a friend. To me and my
father.
AGRAVAINE
Well...it was Gaius who told you where to find the sorcerer that killed your
father, wasn't it? And we do know that he has dabbled in sorcery. What if his
interest in the dark arts has been rekindled?
KING ARTHUR
I've always believed I can trust Gaius.
AGRAVAINE
Oh, me too. Perhaps I am being a little hasty. But it wouldn't do any harm to ask
him some questions, would it?
KING ARTHUR
I'm not sure there's any need.
AGRAVAINE
Oh, I believe there is, sire. We're talking about your safety, and the safety of
the realm. Somebody is plotting against you, and it is my duty to investigate every
possibility, however unlikely. I--I'm sure that Gaius himself would respect that.
--
[05:51, EXT. CATHA CITY - DAY]
[Morgana walks through a market filled with townsfolk wearing turbans. She ignores
the sales pitches and enters the temple.]
--
[06:03, INT. CATHA TEMPLE- DAY]
[Morgana approaches a brawny guard in the corridor.]
MORGANA
I wish to see the Catha. He's expecting me.
[The guard moves aside. Morgana walks around the shrine where the Catha is kneeling
and faces him.]
MORGANA
You are Alator of the Catha, warrior and priest.
ALATOR
You are Morgana Pendragon, High Priestess of the Triple Goddess, and last of your
kind.
[Alator stands.]
ALATOR
What do you seek here?
MORGANA
I need you to abduct someone. From Camelot.
ALATOR
Camelot is no friend to our kind. From what I hear, the young king follows Uther's
ways.
MORGANA
You are a Catha. Such things would not stop you.
ALATOR
Why should I risk my life for you?
[Morgana approaches him and holds out her arm with the healing bracelet.]
MORGANA
Because I am willing to give you something in return. It was forged on the Isle of
the Blessed by a High Priestess. Its healing powers are without equal in the five
kingdoms.
[Alator takes the bracelet from her wrist.]
ALATOR
There is true power here. This is a precious gift. The person you seek must be
important to you.
MORGANA
Yes. I hope the man will lead me to my mortal enemy. Emrys.
ALATOR
It is as you wish. I will perform this task for you.
[Morgana curtsies and exits.]
--
[Arthur plays with his rings as guards escort Gaius into the room. He lingers in
the background while Agravaine greets Gaius.]
AGRAVAINE
Please, sit down.
GAIUS
Why have I been brought here in this manner?
AGRAVAINE
As the king's right hand man, one of my jobs is to ensure his safety.
[Agravaine holds out a chair for Gaius, who sits.]
AGRAVAINE
That means asking questions, even of his most trusted servants. Then, so be it. No
one is to take offence.
GAIUS
Have I done something wrong, sire?
[Arthur doesn't answer and Agravaine sits down across from Gaius.]
AGRAVAINE
What is your attitude to sorcery, Gaius?
[Gaius looks at Arthur, who waits for his answer.]
GAIUS
It is against the law.
AGRAVAINE
And do you agree with that?
GAIUS
I understand the reason for it.
AGRAVAINE
That's not an answer to the question that I asked.
[Arthur watches.]
GAIUS
The law is needed to prevent the abuses that have been perpetrated by sorcerers.
AGRAVAINE
Can I ask you to be a little more direct with your answers? Do you agree that magic
should be banned? Yes or no?
GAIUS
Yes.
AGRAVAINE
Have you ever practiced sorcery?
[Gaius purses his lips.]
GAIUS
A long time ago.
AGRAVAINE
Recently?
GAIUS
No.
AGRAVAINE
Then how did you know the sorcerer that killed Uther?
[Agravaine looks at Arthur who is still hanging out in the background.]
GAIUS
I'd heard of him.
AGRAVAINE
You told Arthur where to find him.
[Gaius looks at Arthur.]
GAIUS
Yes.
AGRAVAINE
That suggests you did know him.
GAIUS
I was told of a dwelling where he could be found.
AGRAVAINE
Who by?
GAIUS
I cannot say.
AGRAVAINE
Have you ever met with him? It's a simple enough question, Gaius. Have you met him,
yes or no?
[Gaius takes a breath and looks down before answering.]
GAIUS
No.
[Agravaine can tell he's lying.]
AGRAVAINE
A-ha. And you would be prepared to swear to that?
GAIUS
Yes.
AGRAVAINE
On oath?
GAIUS
Yes.
AGRAVAINE
Humph. Thank you, Gaius. It's been most informative.
[Agravaine is clearly pleased to have caught Gaius lying.]
GAIUS
Is that it?
AGRAVAINE (nods/shrugs)
Mm. Oh, for today.
[Arthur stares at the floor in the background. Agravaine glares at Gaius as he

leaves. They wait until the doors close and Arthur steps forward.]
KING ARTHUR
Is it really necessary to treat him like that?
[Arthur sits on the throne.]
AGRAVAINE
Your life is at stake, sire. We cannot afford to be fainthearted.
[Agravaine stands.]
AGRAVAINE
And you saw with your own eyes he was lying.
KING ARTHUR
He's definitely hiding something.
[Agravaine scoffs.]
KING ARTHUR
But we can't be certain. We have no proof.
AGRAVAINE
No. You're right, sire. We do not. But I fear that if we keep investigating, we
might find some.
[The guards open the doors for Agravaine and he exits, leaving Arthur alone in the
council room.]
--
[Alator rides through the woods with his brawny guard. They stop for a view of
Camelot.]
--
[12:06, EXT. LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[A guard leads a horse up the street. Alator steps out of the shadows with is guard
and follows him.]
--
[12:27, INT. KING'S PALACE, AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin knocks on the open door.]
AGRAVAINE
Come in.
[Merlin enters.]
AGRAVAINE
Ah. Close the door, would you?
[Merlin closes the door and walks into the room.]
AGRAVAINE
Merlin. I realise what a loyal and trusted servant you are, so I have a very
special errand for you.
[Agravaine smiles and unwraps a dagger. He pulls it out of its sheath and holds it
up, walking very close to Merlin. Merlin is uneasy.]
AGRAVAINE
What do you think?
MERLIN
It's beautiful.
AGRAVAINE
Present for Arthur.
[Merlin relaxes and smiles now.]
AGRAVAINE
It's been crafted by the sword smiths of Gedref, but unfortunately, the blade has
become somewhat dulled during the journey.
[Agravaine sheathes the dagger and hands it to Merlin.]
AGRAVAINE
Would you sharpen it for me?
MERLIN
Of course.
[Agravaine smiles and turns back to his chair.]
AGRAVAINE
Oh, and Merlin...
[Merlin turns around on his way to the door.]
AGRAVAINE
Leave it for the king to find in the morning.
[Merlin chuckles.]
MERLIN
It would be my pleasure.
[Merlin leaves.]
--
[13:39, INT. ROYAL STABLES - NIGHT]
[A guard leads a horse into the stables. Alator and his bodyguard sneak in and wait
for the guard to leave. They untie a white horse.]
ALATOR
Ga on wuda!
[The horse runs out of the stables and off through the lower town.]
--
[14:10, EXT. KING'S PALACE, BATTLEMENTS - NIGHT]
[Alator and his bodyguard hide under the battlements as guards pass by. They make
their way to a door in the wall. Agravaine opens the door from the inside.]
AGRAVAINE (whisper)
You're late!
ALATOR
Let us not waste time, then.
[Agravaine tries to go in after Alator, but the bodyguard pushes him back and goes
in ahead of him.]
--
[14:34, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius is working late. He hears something.]
GAIUS
Merlin?
[Alator grabs Gaius from behind with a hand over his mouth.]
ALATOR
Onslæp nu!
[Gaius falls asleep and collapses into the bodyguard's arms.]
--
[The bodyguard tosses Gaius onto a horse and they ride off.]
--
[Agravaine enters with a bag. He plants a book titled "Witchcraft, Sorcery & Magic"
in the room, and quickly packs some of Gaius's things.]
--
[Merlin places the sharpened dagger next to Arthur's bed while he sleeps. The
warning bells sound and Arthur jolts awake. He looks over at Merlin who smiles
awkwardly.]
--
[Guards toss Gaius's possessions, breaking many of them, as usual. Agravaine holds
the planted book.]
AGRAVAINE
My lord, he was seen riding away from the city.
[Sir Leon enters.]
MERLIN
That can't be true.
SIR LEON
Sire. (to Agravaine) You were right. A white stallion has been taken from the royal
stables.
KING ARTHUR
Well, where would he be going? Why leave at this time of night?
AGRAVAINE
Well, I could hazard a guess, sire, but I think a thorough search of his belongings
may well provide us with the truth.
--
[Alator and the bodyguard ride through the forest with Gaius. The reach a large
natural stone bridge and mining caves.]
--
[Arthur flips through the books of sorcery that Agravaine planted.]
KING ARTHUR
And this was found in Gaius's chambers?
AGRAVAINE
I am as disappointed as you, sire. Someone so close, so trusted. And it's not
merely the discovery that he was a sorcerer, is it? It's... it's the lies.
[Merlin watches Arthur, angered by Agravaine's lies.]
AGRAVAINE
The lies and years of betrayal.
[Arthur drops the spell book on the table, upset.]
AGRAVAINE
I know it's hard to believe, isn't it, sire? But we both saw him refuse to condemn
magic. We both knew he was hiding something. And neither of us want to believe it,
but...now, with this...hasty departure in the middle of the night? These are not
the actions of an innocent man, sire. There can be no doubt. Gaius is the traitor.
[Arthur leans back in his chair, still struggling Agravaine's words.]
AGRAVAINE
I'll send a search party as soon as possible.
KING ARTHUR
No. What purpose will that serve? Let him run.
AGRAVAINE (bows)
As you wish, sire.
[Agravaine exits. Merlin glares at him as he leaves, then stares at the floor. As
soon as the door closes...]
MERLIN
How can you believe this?
[Arthur looks down for a moment.]
KING ARTHUR
I know how you must feel. We questioned him. He's been consorting with sorcerers.
He more or less admitted to it.
MERLIN
And that makes him a traitor.
KING ARTHUR
Why run if you have nothing to hide.
MERLIN
He's given his life to this kingdom. He would never betray you.
KING ARTHUR
Then explain his actions.
[Merlin finally looks at Arthur.]
MERLIN
All right. They're lies. Gaius would never run off in the night.
KING ARTHUR
Look, I know it's hard. But no break ins were reported. His possessions are
missing. A horse has been stolen.
MERLIN
He would not leave without saying goodbye to me.
[Merlin looks away again and stares in the opposite direction. Arthur sighs.]
MERLIN
Agravaine has made this story up.
KING ARTHUR
I shall ignore that last comment.
MERLIN
Because he's your uncle, you will not see who he really is.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin! I've had my heart broken enough already today. I don't want to lose another
friend.
[Arthur stands up briskly.]
KING ARTHUR
Gaius...
[Arthur holds up the magic book.]
KING ARTHUR
Condemned himself.
[Arthur slaps the book on the table on his way out.]
KING ARTHUR
There's no more to be said.
--
[19:07, INT. RIDGE OF KEMERAY - DAY]
[Alator enters the cave, the bodyguard carries Gaius over his shoulder. The
bodyguard lays Gaius on a slanted slab of rock and Gaius stirs.]
MORGANA
You've had a difficult journey. You must be tired. It's time to wake up.
[Morgana strokes his cheek and Gaius wakes.]
MORGANA
It's time for the fun to begin.
[Gaius finds he can't move.]
GAIUS
Get on with it, Morgana. Whatever you want to do, just do it now. I'm not afraid to
die.
MORGANA
Dying is the easy part. I wouldn't be in such a hurry if I were you. My friend
here's going to help me get some information.
[Gaius looks at Alator for the first time.]
MORGANA
Some information you might be a little reluctant to give. I want you to tell me
where Emrys is.
GAIUS
I don't know anyone called Emrys.
MORGANA
Oh, I think you do.
GAIUS
Do what you will. I will never tell you anything, Morgana.
MORGANA
Alator is no ordinary torturer. He's a Catha...priest of the Old Religion. He has
at his disposal some skills only known by initiates. But you're a learned man,
Gaius. I'm sure you know exactly what he can do.
[Morgana leaves and Agravaine follows her out.]
--
[Merlin sits on the floor reading a sheet of parchment. The door opens and he looks
at it expectantly. It's Gwen. He turns back, disappointed.]
MERLIN
I thought you were him.
[Gwen walks to him and puts a hand on his shoulder as she sits on the floor beside
him.]
MERLIN
Agravaine's behind this. He's done something to Gaius.
GWEN
Arthur told me what you said.
MERLIN
He won't listen to me.
GWEN
I'll do what I can, but...Agravaine's his uncle. He...he trusts him more than
anyone.
MERLIN
Yeah.
--
ALATOR
Ligfyr onbærne swiþe.
[Alator's eyes glow and a circle of flame rises up around Gaius's stone slab.]
ALATOR
Do not resist the fire. Let it enter your mind. Let the flames search out your
thoughts. Feel them burn...
[Gaius seems to be in pain.]
ALATOR
Into the darkest recesses of your mind. Let them shine a torch on your deepest
secrets. Bring them to the light.
GAIUS
Acwence þa bælblyse.
[Gaius's eyes glow and the flames die down.]
ALATOR
Fyr wiþere!
[The spell strengthens the flames into a high blaze.]
--
[22:45, INT. KING'S PALACE, AGRAVAINE'S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin searches Agravaine's chamber. He finds a chest under the bed and pulls it
out. It's locked. His eyes glow and it unlatches. It's filled with books titled
"Studies in Sorcery." Upset, Merlin drops the book back in the box and shoves it
back under the bed. He notices a pair of boots nearby with reddish soil all over
them. He rubs his thumb across the boot and picks up some of the dirt. He sniffs it
and notices its odd smell. The door unlatches and he hides behind the dressing
screen. Agravaine has a mirror set up in a position that allows him a view of the
room, so Merlin can see where he is. Agravaine starts to undress and walks around
the screen. Merlin has slipped around to the other side while Agravaine pulled off
his shirt. Agravaine sees Merlin sneaking off in the strategic mirror. Merlin
leaves and he steps around the screen, putting his shirt back on. He looks down by
the bed and sees his boots with a thumb mark of dirt missing. He grits his teeth.]
--
[Gwaine is sitting on a bench, waiting for Merlin. Merlin stops as he enters.]
MERLIN
What are you doing in here?
SIR GWAINE
Got bored of playing soldiers. And I thought I'd come and see how you were.
[Still suspicious, Merlin takes a bag off the back of the door and opens it for
Gwaine to exit before heading to a work table.]
MERLIN
I'm busy.
SIR GWAINE
Doing what?
MERLIN
What do you think?
SIR GWAINE
Looking for Gaius.
MERLIN
I know everyone thinks he's a traitor, but he's not. He's been abducted, Gwaine. He
may even be dead.
[Merlin turns to look at a book and brings a candle closer to examine the dirt.]
SIR GWAINE
Probably don't need my help, then.
[They exchange a look and Merlin softens.]
MERLIN
Do you know what this is?
[Merlin holds up his dirty thumb.]
SIR GWAINE
Might do.
[Gwaine gets up.]
SIR GWAINE
Here. Let me see.
[Gwaine walks to the work table. Merlin holds out his hand and Gwaine takes a swipe
of the dirt and smells it.]
SIR GWAINE
That's iron ore. Where'd you find this?
MERLIN
That doesn't matter. Does it help us?
[Gwaine sits and wipes his dirty fingers on the table.]
SIR GWAINE
Iron ore's pretty rare in Camelot. In fact, I've only seen it once, on a patrol.
MERLIN
Where?
SIR GWAINE
Er...ridge of Kemeray. they've been hewing iron from rocks there for hundreds of
years.
--
[25:54, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Gwaine ride out of Camelot. Agravaine sees them from his window.]
--
[26:09, INT. RIDGE OF KEMERAY - NIGHT]
ALATOR
Feel the fire roar deep within you. Feel your thoughts begin to simmer. Let them
flee the rushing flames. Let them run like burning oil. Let them escape. Allow them
free, Gaius.
[Gaius struggles against the magic.]
ALATOR
Tell me. Who...is...Emrys?
--
[Agravaine gallops through the forest.]
--
[Agravaine bursts in as Morgana is unloading firewood.]
AGRAVAINE
Merlin's onto us. He's out searching for Gaius even as we speak. He may even know
where he's hidden.
--
[27:04, EXT. RIDGE OF KEMERAY - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Gwaine head into the mining caves.]
--
[Alator continues his mental torture.]
ALATOR
Tell me about Emrys. Tell me, Gaius. Where can we find Emrys?
[Gaius struggles not to speak, but can't help himself.]
GAIUS
In Camelot.
ALATOR
Where in Camelot?
GAIUS
Emrys is-- Emrys is a name by which he is known to the druids, but to me...I know
him by a different name.
ALATOR
Tell me, Gaius.
[Gaius starts to form Merlin's name.]
GAIUS
No!
[Alator places his hands on Gaius to strengthen the spell.]
ALATOR
Who is he?
GAIUS
H-- he is the most powerful sorcerer who has ever lived.
ALATOR
What is his name?
GAIUS
His name...is...
[Gaius struggles.]
GAIUS
Merlin.
--
[28:42, INT. RIDGE OF KEMERAY, CAVE ENTRANCE - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Gwaine enter the right mining shaft and Merlin notices the same iron
ore on his boots.]
--
[Now that the worst has been spoken, Gaius continues without a fight.]
GAIUS
For the druids' legends are true. Merlin is...Emrys. A man destined for greatness.
A man who will one day unite the powers of the old world and the new, and bring the
time that the poets speak of. The time...of Albion.
[Gaius closes his eyes.]
--
[Merlin and Gwaine continue searching. The bodyguard jumps out at them. Gwaine
fights him, but eventually Merlin steps in and, with a flash of the eyes, he's
down. Alator hears the bodyguard's scream. Merlin helps Gwaine to his feet.]
--
[Agravaine and Morgana ride for the caves.]
--
[Gwaine and Merlin come to a fork in their search.]
MERLIN
We should split up.
SIR GWAINE
Yeah.
MERLIN
Gwaine. If you find him, don't wait for me.
[Gwaine nods.]
--
[30:35, EXT. RIDGE OF KEMERAY - DAY]
[Agravaine and Morgana arrive. Agravaine dismounts.]
SIR GWAINE
Black horse belongs to Gawain. He's a hot head. Better be careful of him.
--
[Gwaine keeps searching. Agravaine and Morgana enter.]
MORGANA
Go to Gaius. If he remains alive, we're all in danger.
AGRAVAINE
You can rest assured, he won't breathe another word.
MORGANA (nods)
I'll deal with Merlin and this hot head.
[They separate. Merlin continues searching and sees firelight ahead. He ducks into
hiding as Alator comes around the corner. Alator stops, but doesn't look down to
see Merlin. When he leaves, Merlin goes where Alator just came from.]
--
[Agravaine finds Gaius. He steps into the stone circle and checks Gaius, who's
still alive. Agravaine pulls out a dagger and goes for Gaius's throat.]
SIR GWAINE
Agravaine! So it was you! You abducted him.
AGRAVAINE
What? No!
SIR GWAINE
What are you doing?
[Gwaine places his sword at Agravaine's throat.]
AGRAVAINE
He's unconscious, I'm trying to help.
SIR GWAINE
With that?
AGRAVAINE
I want to see if he's still breathing.
[Agravaine lifts the dagger from Gaius's throat to his nose.]
SIR GWAINE
And is he?
AGRAVAINE
Just. You can see the breath still on the blade, look.
[Gwaine holds the torch near the dagger and Agravaine parries Gwaine's sword.]
AGRAVAINE
Now do you believe me?
[Gwaine puts his sword back at Agravaine's throat.]
SIR GWAINE
Then how did you know he was here?
[Agravaine pauses, thinking on his feet.]
AGRAVAINE
Guards at the western gate saw you and Merlin leave. Knowing Merlin's concern for
Gaius, I thought it must be some new information at hand. So, I just followed your
trail.
[Gwaine backs off and nods.]
SIR GWAINE
You agree he was abducted, then?
AGRAVAINE
Yes, of course he was. Now, we must get him back to Camelot without delay. Come on.
SIR GWAINE
We have to find Merlin first.
AGRAVAINE
No!
[Gwaine looks back, suspicious.]
AGRAVAINE
I fear if we do not leave now, Gaius will not survive. We've no time to lose. Give
me a hand!
[Gwaine starts to go anyway.]
AGRAVAINE
Look, the people who took Gaius have already fled. I saw them with my own eyes from
the ridge. We must get back to Camelot by night fall.
[Gwaine hesitates.]
AGRAVAINE
Come on, Gawain! Help me! Please!
[Gwaine sheathes his sword and goes to help.]
AGRAVAINE
Merlin can find his own way back.
--
[Merlin reaches a dead end. He turns back the way he came only to be thrown
backwards by Morgana.]
MORGANA
You really are a thorn in my side, aren't you?
[Morgana pulls out a dagger.]
MORGANA
When will you learn not to meddle with things you couldn't possibly understand?
[Morgana throws the dagger and controls it to stay at Merlin's throat as he

scampers backwards on the ground.]
MORGANA
It's difficult, isn't it? When there are so many different and painful ways for me
to be finally rid of you.
MERLIN
I don't care what you do to me. I want to know what you've done to Gaius.
MORGANA
Well, Gaius had some information I needed. The whereabouts of the sorcerer Emrys.
If he gave it to me willingly, his suffering would not be prolonged, but...if he
did not...
[Morgana smirks.]
MERLIN
If you have harmed him...
MORGANA
Why are we discussing his fate when it's time to decide yours? Not whether you're
going to die alone here in this godforsaken place. That's gonna happen anyway. But
how. Or more precisely, how painfully.
[Alator enters.]
MORGANA
Alator this is Merlin.
[Alator is surprised and looks more closely at Merlin.]
MORGANA
He's just a serving boy, but he's the most troublesome serving boy I've ever known.
I take it your time with Gaius was fruitful?
[Alator looks at Morgana.]
ALATOR
Gaius told me everything.
[Merlin looks at Alator.]
MORGANA
So you know who Emrys is?
ALATOR
Indeed I do.
[Alator walks forward and Morgana follows a few steps, desperate for his answer.
Alator kneels down and looks Merlin in the eye. Merlin glares at him.]
ALATOR
Not only do I know who Emrys is, I know exactly where he is.
[Morgana's eyes are wide with eagerness.]
MORGANA
Then tell me.
[Alator looks at her.]
ALATOR
Never.
[Alator stands and aims his staff at her.]
ALATOR
Forþ fleoge!
[Morgana screams as she's thrown backwards against a rock and collapses

unconscious. The dagger at Merlin's throat drops. Merlin scrambles to his feet.]
ALATOR
Merlin, I am Alator of the Catha. I am honoured to be of service.
MERLIN
You have magic!
ALATOR (nods)
I understand the burden you carry. I have lived with it all my life. I have been
shunned, persecuted, and sometimes even hunted in every corner of the five
kingdoms. I understand what that feels like. You're not alone. From what Gaius told
me, I do not have your great powers, Merlin, but I share your hopes. For I, and
others like me, have dreamt of the world you seek to build. And we would gladly
give our lives to help you do it.
[Alator kneels to Merlin. Merlin sighs in amazement.]
--
[36:12, EXT. KING'S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE - DAY]
[Gwaine and Agravaine ride into the square with Gaius slung across Gwaine's horse.]
--
[36:17, INT. KING'S PALACE, GRIFFIN STAIRCASE - DAY]
[Gwaine jogs up the stairs ahead of the guards carrying Gaius. He meets Arthur on
the landing.]
KING ARTHUR
What happened?
SIR GWAINE
We found him. He'd been kidnapped.
[Arthur looks sharply at Gwaine for a moment.]
KING ARTHUR
He's in a bad way.
[They follow the guards carrying Gaius, Agravaine behind them.]
--
[Agravaine and Arthur watch Gwen mopping Gaius's forehead.]
AGRAVAINE
It seems I misjudged Gaius. Merlin was right all along.
KING ARTHUR
We were lucky he found him.
AGRAVAINE
Indeed. If it hadn't been for the tenacity of your boy, Gaius would be dead.
[Arthur swallows hard.]
AGRAVAINE
We both owe Gaius and Merlin an apology, my lord.
[Arthur leaves. Agravaine follows him after a last look at Gaius.]
--
[Morgana wakes in the cave. She picks up her healing bracelet sitting next to her
and shakes in fear.]
--
[Merlin sits by Gaius's bedside. Gaius wakes.]
GAIUS
I'm ashamed.
MERLIN
Why?
GAIUS
Your secret. A secret I thought I'd protect with my life.
MERLIN
Gaius, you could've died.
GAIUS
But if Morgana had found out...
MERLIN
She didn't. She didn't count on Alator's true loyalties.
GAIUS
I worry that one day I'll let you down.
MERLIN
My worry is Arthur.
GAIUS
We can't tell him about Agravaine.
MERLIN
He needs to know.
GAIUS
We don't have any evidence. And you've seen how dear he is to Arthur.
[Arthur knocks and enters. Merlin's not really pleased to see him.]
KING ARTHUR
I think I owe both of you an apology.
MERLIN
Not to me. To Gaius.
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
[Gaius and Merlin share a poignant look.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, will you give us a moment?
[Merlin gives Gaius an mischievous look.]
MERLIN
Does that mean I get the morning off?
[Gaius smiles.]
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
[Merlin raises his eyebrows.]
KING ARTHUR
Yes, you can have the morning off to...clean my chambers, polish my armour, and
launder my clothes.
[Merlin turns to Arthur.]
MERLIN
You certainly know how to apologise.
[Arthur grins with an amused shrug. They share a poignant look and Arthur nods to
him as Merlin leaves. Arthur approached Gaius's sickbed.]
KING ARTHUR
Are you all right?
GAIUS
I'm just glad it's all over.
KING ARTHUR
I made a mistake.
GAIUS
I've looked after you since you were a nurseling, Arthur. You should've known I
love you far too much ever to betray you.
[Arthur looks touched and ashamed.]
KING ARTHUR
Gaius...who abducted you?
[Gaius swallows hard and considers for a moment how to answer.]
GAIUS
I couldn't say. But I'm certain they were in league with Morgana.
KING ARTHUR
What did they want?
GAIUS
Information. About you...Camelot...to help bring down the kingdom.
KING ARTHUR (softly)

Did they get it?
GAIUS
Morgana got nothing from me.
[Arthur chuckles for a moment, then sighs in amazement at Gaius's strength. He sits
in the chair that Merlin vacated and grasps Gaius's hand.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm grateful.
[Arthur braces his arms on his legs.]

But there's a matter that still concerns me. When you were asked about the sorcerer
who killed my father...you lied.
GAIUS
I did, sire.

You admit it?
GAIUS
I chose to protect him. I feared you would seek him out and execute him. That
would've been a grave mistake. The sorcerer did not kill your father. Uther was
dying. He tried everything in his power to save him.
[Gaius sees Arthur having difficulty with what he said.]
GAIUS
Contained within this great kingdom is a rich variety of people with a range of
different beliefs. I'm not the only one seeking to protect you. There are many more
who believe in the world you are trying to create. One day you will learn, Arthur.
One day you will understand...just how much they've done for you.
[Arthur processes Gaius's words and nods.]
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November 26 2011, 04:05
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BBC Merlin: 4x08 Lamia
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, INT/EXT. LONGSTEAD, THE HOWDENS' HOUSE - NIGHT]
[John stirs the fire while Mary folds a blanket.]
JOHN HOWDEN
There's a chill in the air tonight.
[Mary chuckles, John turns to her.]
JOHN HOWDEN
What?
MARY HOWDEN
You say that every night.
[John chuckles.]
JOHN HOWDEN
Do I now?
MARY HOWDEN
Only for the last thirty years. Stop your fussing and come to bed.
[A man screams outside. John quickly lights a torch and gets up. Mary grabs his
arm.]
MARY HOWDEN
John...don't go outside, I'm begging you.
JOHN HOWDEN
It's my duty. I'm the elder of this village.
MARY HOWDEN
John, please!
JOHN HOWDEN
Lock the door behind me. Let no one in. No one, do you hear?
[John searches outside. He enters a common building and sees a door opening and
closing with the wind. He jerks it open and no one's there. He steps through the
doorway and a man falls on him. John supports him and looks at his pale, staring
face.]
JOHN HOWDEN
Aldref?
[Aldref is limp on his feet, eyes wide. John looks around him.]
JOHN HOWDEN
Hello? Is there anybody there?
[Nearby a figure slithers out of sight.]
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[02:42, INT. LOWER TOWN, GWEN'S HOUSE - DAY]
[Gwen folds blankets. Someone knocks at the door and Gwen opens it.]
MARY HOWDEN
Gwen?
GWEN
Mary?
MARY HOWDEN
I was told I might find you here.
GWEN
Mary!
[Gwen happily pulls Mary into her house.]
GWEN
What a wonderful surprise!
MARY HOWDEN
I hope I'm not interrupting anything.
GWEN
No, no, not at all. What brings you to Camelot?
MARY HOWDEN
I don't want to trouble you, Gwen. John and I, I-- I know we haven't seen you for
many years, but...there was no one else we could turn to.
GWEN
What is it?
MARY HOWDEN
Just...we're just so scared.
GWEN
Oh, Mary...
[Gwen hugs Mary.]
--
[Gwen and Mary sit at the table, Gwen holds Mary's hand.]
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere informs me that you live in Longstead in the Fiore Mountains, is that
right?
MARY HOWDEN
That's right, sire. Our village, we're blighted by a sickness. Three good men it
has taken now. We have no physician, sire. It is beyond our understanding.
KING ARTHUR
I see.
[Arthur looks at Gwen, who gives him an "oh, those poor people" expression. Gwen
turns her attention back to Mary.]
MARY HOWDEN
Forgive me. I have no right to bring such a small matter before the king.
KING ARTHUR
You have every right.
[Arthur sits.]
KING ARTHUR
It's my responsibility to protect the people of this kingdom, whoever they may be.
MARY HOWDEN
You'll help us?
KING ARTHUR
I'll do whatever I can.
[Mary looks hopefully at Gwen and touches her hand.]
--
[Merlin cares for a sick patient while Gaius speaks with Arthur.]
GAIUS
This is the forth case of sweating sickness I've seen today. In normal
circumstances, I'd be happy to travel to this village to investigate, but--
KING ARTHUR
Of course. I understand.
GAIUS
Might I make a suggestion, sire? Why not send Merlin in my place?
[Merlin looks at Gaius and Gaius looks at Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR (dubious)

Merlin?
GAIUS
He has a knowledge of the healing arts. If the diagnosis is straightforward, he can
prescribe a remedy, I'm sure.
KING ARTHUR
And what if it isn't?
GAIUS
Then he can bring his findings to me.
KING ARTHUR
"Findings"? Merlin can't find his own backside most of the time.
[Merlin's not pleased by the comment.]
GAIUS
I think he's capable of much more than you imagine, sire.
KING ARTHUR (aside to Gaius)

Do you really think he'll be able to...handle the responsibility?
GAIUS
Yes, sire. I do.
--
[Merlin reads up on medicine while he eats. Gaius cuts some bread.]
MERLIN
Do you really think I can do this, Gaius?
GAIUS
I know you can.
MERLIN
I'm not a physician. I don't have anything like the knowledge you do.
GAIUS
You've been working for me for many years, Merlin. I suspect you know more than you
think you do.
MERLIN
I just do what you tell me to do. I don't have to make the decisions myself. These
people will be putting their lives in my hands.
GAIUS
I put my life in your hands every day, Merlin, as does Arthur and Gwen and all of
Camelot, though they may not know it. You're the one who holds the fate of this
kingdom in the balance.
MERLIN
That's different. That doesn't require a lifetime of learning, just--
GAIUS
Intelligence, courage, compassion.
[Merlin scoffs with a smile.]

GAIUS
All I know is...I have every faith in you.
--
[05:46, INT. KING'S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin packs for the journey. Gaius enters.]
GAIUS
Merlin. Before you go, you'll need this.
[Gaius holds out his medicine bag.]
MERLIN
Oh, I can't take that, Gaius. That's your medicine bag.
GAIUS
Don't worry. I've got plenty of spare supplies.
[Merlin takes it.]
MERLIN
Thanks, Gaius.
GAIUS
Are you ready?
MERLIN
As I'll ever be.
[Gaius nods with a smile.]
--
[Mary, Merlin, and Gwen ride off with the knights. They stop at the top of a hill.]
MARY HOWDEN
My village lies at the foot of those mountains.
SIR LEON
With luck, we should be there by nightfall.
--
[06:51, EXT. LONGSTEAD - NIGHTFALL]
[A few villagers gather as they arrive. Mary dismounts and John greets her with a
hug.]
GWEN
John.
[Gwen hugs John.]
GWEN
It's good to see you. We came as quickly as we could.
JOHN HOWDEN
Words cannot express our gratitude, Gwen.
[John looks up.]

JOHN HOWDEN
Where's Gaius?
MERLIN
I'm sorry. He was needed in Camelot, but I will help in any way that I can.
JOHN HOWDEN (to Gwen)

We're living in fear for our lives. We need a skilled physician, not a boy.
SIR ELYAN (offended)

His name is Merlin.
GWEN
He was appointed acting physician by King Arthur himself.
MERLIN
Where are they?
[John points. Merlin and Gwen head off in that direction.]
--
[07:48, INT. LONGSTEAD, TEMPORARY WARD - NIGHT]
[Merlin uses a small mirror to check for breath.]
MERLIN
They're alive, but only just. How long have they been like this?
JOHN HOWDEN
Two or three days. We've tried to feed them, keep them warm, but nothing seems to
make any difference.
GWEN
And you've no idea what happened to them?
JOHN HOWDEN
No. It just strikes suddenly, without warning.
MERLIN
Well, we need to stimulate the blood flow. Poultice of betulial should work, and a
tincture of belladonna to stimulate the heart.
[Merlin hands something to Gwen, his assistant, and she nods to his instructions.]
JOHN HOWDEN
Will it kill them? Will it...bring them back?
MERLIN
Let's see what the morning brings. Right now we need hot water and plenty of
blankets.
[Gwen nods and leaves with John. Merlin waits for the doors to close and turns to
one of the patients.]
MERLIN
[Merlin's eyes glow, but nothing happens.]
--
[08:48, INT/EXT. LONGSTEAD, TEMPORARY WARD - NIGHT]
[Merlin reads over his medical notes again. He hears a hissing sound outside. He
takes a fishing rod by the door and goes to investigate. After a tense moment with
more hissing, he turns around the corner of the house and is startled by Gwaine.]
MERLIN
Gwaine!
GWAINE
Sorry. Call of nature.
MERLIN
I could've killed you!
GWAINE
With a fishing rod? "Sir Gwaine was slain...with a fishing rod"?
[Merlin laughs.]
GWAINE
That's the stuff of legends, eh?
[Merlin chuckles and feints hitting Gwaine with the rod.]
GWAINE
Whoa-ho-ho.
[Gwaine chuckles and walks off. Merlin hears the hissing again, but nothing's
there. He follows Gwaine.]
--
[10:03, INT. LONGSTEAD, TEMPORARY WARD - DAY]
[Merlin and Gwen see to the sick.]
MERLIN
I barely feel a pulse.
[John enters.]
JOHN HOWDEN
How are they?
[Merlin and Gwen exchange a look.]
MERLIN
I'm afraid the treatments have had no effect.
JOHN HOWDEN
You mean they're dying.
MERLIN
I'm sorry. There's something at work here that I don't understand.
JOHN HOWDEN
Are you suggesting sorcery?
MERLIN
That's...possible, yes.
JOHN HOWDEN
I feared as much. The other night, when I found Aldref, I felt a...a presence. An
evil in the air.
[Merlin turns to Gwen.]
MERLIN
We need to get back to Gaius. Only he can explain this.
--
[11:06, EXT. LONGSTEAD - DAY]
[Gwen, Merlin, and the knights ride out.]
--
[Sir Leon sees campfire smoke and holds up a hand to stop the group.]
SIR LEON
Dismount and muzzle your horses. Not a sound, any of you.
[They dismount and they sneak closer on foot.]
MERLIN
Bandits.
SIR ELYAN (nods)

Looks like it.
SIR LEON
We'll skirt their camp. With any luck, we'll reach the plain unnoticed.
[Gwaine sees a girl with her hands tied being jostled by the men.]
SIR GWAINE
Over there.
[Gwaine draws his sword. Gwaine goes down to the camp and the others follow. They
kill most of the bandits, Merlin uses his magic on one, and the rest flee.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Over here.
[The others find Percival cradling the unconscious girl.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Looks like we're too late.
[Merlin checks her.]
MERLIN
No, she's--
[The girl screams and tries to get away from Merlin.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Hey. Hey. Hey, it's all right. It's all right.
[Gwen crouches down next to them. The girl settles down as Percival cradles her and
looks into her eyes.]
SIR PERCIVAL
We're knights of Camelot. You're safe now. You're safe.
GWEN
Here.
[Gwen reaches to untie the girl's bonds and the girl squirms.]
GWEN
My name's Gwen. What's yours?
LAMIA
Lamia. My name is Lamia.
[Merlin gets out some medical supplies.]
GWEN
What happened to you, Lamia?
LAMIA
I was travelling home and the bandits took me.
[She sobs and presses herself into Percival's embrace.]
MERLIN
Your hands. Did they do this to you?
[Merlin reaches to tend to Lamia's wrists, but she recoils from his touch. Leon
crouches down and puts a hand on Merlin to stop him and Percival comforts Lamia.
Leon puts a hand on her arm.]
SIR LEON
Are you strong enough to ride?
[Lamia looks up but says nothing.]
SIR LEON
Then let's get out of here. Before they return.
[Percival picks up Lamia and they head off.]
--
[They all lead their horses, Lamia sits on the one Percival is leading.
SIR LEON
We'll be safe here till the morning.
[The group stops and Merlin holds out a hand to help her down.]
MERLIN
Here.
[Lamia recoils and Percival shoves Merlin away. Gwen and Merlin are shocked.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Hey! Get away from her, Merlin.
[Percival takes Lamia into his arms.]
SIR PERCIVAL
And stay away.
GWEN (low)
Merlin, he didn't mean it. They're just tired, that's all.
--
[Percival takes the first watch. He hears a girl crying in the woods and goes to
investigate. He finds Lamia curled up by a tree, crying. He kneels down and
comforts her.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Don't worry. No harm can come to you now.
[Percival holds her close and her eyes glow green with a hiss. She lifts her face
up, but a twig snaps and Percival stands up, sword ready for attack.]
MERLIN
Sorry.
[Percival lowers the sword. Lamia glares at Merlin.]
MERLIN
Would you like some water?
[Merlin holds out a flask. Percival ignores him, returns to Lamia, and walks off
with his arm around her.]
--
KING ARTHUR
It's been two days. They should be back by now.
AGRAVAINE
There must be some delay at Longstead, sire.
KING ARTHUR
If there was a delay, they would have sent word.
AGRAVAINE
Then it must be the bridge is down at Brekfer River.
KING ARTHUR
No, I already checked. Patrol passed through there yesterday.
AGRAVAINE
Well, should I send some scouts out to search for them?
KING ARTHUR
Gaius, is your work done here?
GAIUS
Yes, sire, I'm satisfied the sweating sickness is all but passed.
KING ARTHUR
Then we leave for Longstead at first light.
--
[Arthur's party rides out.]
--
GWEN
Would you--
[Gwen tries to hand Lamia a bowl of food, but Lamia flinches away from her.]
GWEN
I'll just put it here.
[Gwen places the bowl on the fire pit rocks nearby and walks over to Merlin.]
GWEN
She still won't eat. No appetite at all. Poor girl.
SIR LEON
Pack your bags. We ride east with the rising sun.
MERLIN
Wait...east? Camelot lies west of here.
SIR ELYAN
Lamia has asked that we take her home.
MERLIN
No, we need to get Gaius.
SIR GWAINE
Gaius can wait.
MERLIN
We were sent to help the people of Longstead. Their lives depend on us.
SIR LEON
You dare to question our judgment? You are not a knight! You're not even a
physician! You're nothing but a servant! Come on.
GWEN
Please! Listen! Merlin's right, we have to get back to-- !
SIR ELYAN
Stay out of this, Gwen. It's none of your business.
[Gwen is surprised and confused. The knights all help Lamia on their way. Gwen
scoffs in disbelief. Merlin is suspicious.]
--
[Arthur's party rides through the forest. Arthur sends out a scout and dismounts.
He throws his cloak on his saddle. Gaius dismounts and approaches him.]
GAIUS
Is anything wrong, sire?
KING ARTHUR (whisper)

Listen. No birdsong. Nothing.
[The scout comes back.]
RED CAPE (whisper)

Sire!
[Arthur draws his sword from his horse. They discover a Southron camp, corpses
lying on the forest floor.]
KING ARTHUR
Does anything strike you as odd about these bodies?
GAIUS
Yes, sire. There's not a mark on them.
KING ARTHUR
Not so much as a scratch.
AGRAVAINE
Over here, my lord!
[Arthur approaches the prison wagon.]
KING ARTHUR
Southron slave traders by the looks of it.
AGRAVAINE
What were they transporting? Some kind of an animal?
[Gaius examines scratch marks on the wood.]
GAIUS
No. These marks were made by humans. And whoever they were, they did anything they
had to to get out.
[One of the Southrons moans. Arthur and Gaius check on him.]
KING ARTHUR
Can he be treated?
GAIUS
I… I could try, sire. But I'll need time and somewhere to work.
KING ARTHUR (to knights)

He comes with us! (to Gaius) We'll make Longstead in a matter of hours.
--
[Sir Leon starts bringing his water flask to Lamia. Gwaine intercepts him.]
SIR LEON
Why don't you watch what you're doing?
SIR GWAINE
Why don't you watch your damn tongue?
SIR LEON
You'd do well to learn some manners.
SIR GWAINE
Nothing I can learn from you, Leon.
[Gwaine shoves him and Merlin and Gwen look over.]
SIR LEON
We'll see about that.
[Leon shoves Gwaine. Lamia twirls her hair, pleased with their quarrelling.]
MERLIN
Enough! What's got into you?
[Leon rams his chest into Gwaine as he walks past him and Gwaine draws his sword.
Leon does likewise and they fight. Gwen is surprised. Percival and Elyan look at
each other and intervene. Lamia twirls her hair with a smirk as they pull Gwaine
and Leon apart. Leon has a slash of blood on his arm, pouring through his
chainmail.]
MERLIN
Great!
[Merlin goes to check Leon's arm, who is still struggling against Percival.]
GWENA
I'll get the medicine bag.
[Merlin leads Leon away.]
MERLIN
Come on.
[Lamia smirks and twirls her hair.]
--
[20:51, EXT. LONGSTEAD - NIGHT]
[Arthur gives orders to his knights.]
KING ARTHUR
Spread out and speak to everyone. Someone must know something.
[The knights nod and depart. Agravaine meets Arthur.]

KING ARTHUR
Did you speak to the village elder?
AGRAVAINE
It seems they left yesterday morning.
KING ARTHUR
Where are they headed?
AGRAVAINE
Camelot, my lord.
KING ARTHUR
Something must've happened.
AGRAVAINE
We can't go after them tonight.
KING ARTHUR
Then we ride at dawn. See that the men are prepared.
AGRAVAINE
Sire.
--
[21:13, INT. LONGSTEAD, TEMPORARY WARD - NIGHT]
GAIUS
And they've been like this for four days?
JOHN HOWDEN
And each day they grow weaker.
[Gaius nods.]
GAIUS
Merlin is right. This is no ordinary illness. There is sorcery at work here.
--
[Merlin tends to Leon and Gwen brings him bandages.]
SIR LEON
That needles the size of a spear.
[Merlin finishes sewing Leon's arm and Gwen wraps it.]
MERLIN
I'm sorry, it's all I have.
GWEN
There. Done.
SIR LEON
Thank you.
[Leon gets up in a huff and puts his shirt back on. Gwen sits in his place.]
MERLIN (low)
Leon and Gwaine, I've never known them to act like this.
GWEN (whisper)
Elyan's the same. I hardly recognize him.
MERLIN
I think it's something to do with her.
GWEN (surprised)
Lamia?
MERLIN
The knights are like brothers. Yet, they fight and quarrel like foes?
[Gwaine puts a blanket on Lamia's shoulders.]
MERLIN
It started the moment we found her.
GWEN
But look at her. She's just a girl. How could she affect them this way?
MERLIN
I don't know.
--
[22:23, INT. LONGSTEAD - ARTHUR'S QUARTERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius enters.]
KING ARTHUR
Any luck with the Southron?
GAIUS
I've done my best, sire. His condition is perilous, but he lives.
KING ARTHUR
Was he able to tell us anything?
GAIUS
He is a slave trader, as you suspected. They were travelling south with a girl.
KING ARTHUR
Did he say what happened to them?
GAIUS
He claims they fell under some kind of spell. Quarrels and fights broke out among
them. They began to suspect the girl of bewitching them. Seems they were right.
KING ARTHUR
Why? What happened?
GAIUS
The girl escaped and killed them all but him.
KING ARTHUR
How's that possible? She's just one girl.
GAIUS
Not a girl, sire. A lamia.
KING ARTHUR
A lamia?
GAIUS
A creature of magic. In their wars with the ancient kings, the High Priestesses of
the Old Religion took the blood from a girl and mingled it with that of a serpent.
The creatures they created had ferocious powers. They could control the mind of a
man, suck the life from him with a single embrace.
KING ARTHUR
Which is why none of the traders had a mark on them.
GAIUS
But the lamia proved more deadly than their makers had ever imagined.
--
[23:31, EXT. FOREST, CAMP - NIGHT]
[Elyan is on watch as the others sleep.]
GAIUS (V.O.)
They could transform at will and become hideous monsters.
[Elyan hears a hiss and goes to investigate.]
[INT. LONGSTEAD - ARTHUR'S QUARTERS - NIGHT]
GAIUS
And they kept on killing, sire. They would not stop.
KING ARTHUR
So this girl, this creature, is still out there somewhere.
GAIUS (nods)
I'm afraid so, sire.
--
[23:55, EXT. FOREST, CAMP - NIGHT]
[Elyan continues his investigation. He hears a rustle and draws his sword. It's
Lamia. She holds up her hands.]
LAMIA
Forgive me.
[Elyan lowers the sword.]
LAMIA
I didn't mean to frighten you. Couldn't sleep.
SIR ELYAN
Nor could I. Then again, it is my job to stay awake.
[Lamia walks closer.]
LAMIA
Don't be afraid. I won't hurt you.
[Lamia takes his face in her hands and kisses him. A hiss rises up and Elyan
convulses and drops to the ground as Lamia's eyes flash green.]
--
[24:50, EXT. FOREST, CAMP - DAY]
[Everyone wakes.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Elyan!?
GWEN
He was supposed to be on guard. He should've woken us long before now. Elyan!
SIR LEON
Elyan! Elyan! Gwen, stay with Lamia. The rest of you, come with me. Spread out.
[The knights draw their swords and head off. Merlin looks to Gwen to see if it's
okay and she nods for him to go with them.]
SIR LEON
Elyan!
LAMIA
Don't worry. They'll find your brother soon enough.
SIR PERCIVAL (distant)

Elyan! Elyan!
--
[Arthur leads his horse as he tracks Gwen's party. He examines the ground.]
KING ARTHUR
Six horses...running east...tracks are no more than a day old.
[Arthur mounts and they ride off.]
--
[The knights carry Elyan back to the camp.]
GWEN
Oh, g— Elyan! What happened to him?
SIR LEON
I don't know. We found him like this.
[Gwen rushes to Merlin.]
GWEN
Merlin! (whisper) She did this. I know she did.
[Merlin turns to the knights.]
MERLIN
We need to get him back to Camelot now.
[Lamia stands up.]
LAMIA
I know this area. There's a castle not far from here. We could take shelter there.
You—you could tend to your friend.
SIR LEON
Then lead the way.
MERLIN
We don't need shelter, thank you. We need Gaius.
GWEN
He's right.
SIR LEON
Silence! Both of you! You have no say in these matters! You come with us, or you
stay here. It's up to you. Let's go.
[Leon and Percival carry off Elyan. Lamia glares at Gwen and Merlin and follows.]
--
[Gwen and Merlin ride in the back of the party. They speak in low tones.]
GWEN
We could try reasoning with them or tell them Lamia's responsible for what's
happening.
MERLIN
They won't listen to reason. You've seen how they are. It's like they're under an
enchantment.
GWEN
We have to do something!
MERLIN
Arthur's our only hope now. We've been gone too long, he must know something's
wrong.
GWEN
They'll never find us now. We're in the middle of nowhere.
MERLIN
We need to give him some help.
--
[Arthur continues to track Gwen's party.]
KING ARTHUR
Tracks stop here.
AGRAVAINE
I fear we're wasting our time, sire. For all we know, they could've gone back to
Camelot already.
KING ARTHUR
No. Camelot lies west of here. Tracks heading...east.
[Arthur thinks for a moment, then turns to his knights.]
KING ARTHUR
Fan out, see what you can find.
[Merlin waits as Gwen rips off part of her tunic and ties it to a tree. She mounts
and they catch up to the others. They reach an opening in the trees that looks down
on the castle Lamia mentioned.]
--
[Arthur's party continues searching for tracks. Agravaine finds some and covers
them up. He smirks.]
--
[28:47, EXT. LAMIA'S CASTLE - DAY]
[Gwen's party enters the castle through a cave with a broken gate.]
LAMIA
This way.
[Merlin grabs Percival's arm. The others continue on.]
MERLIN
This is madness, Percival. Elyan needs help. You know nothing about this girl. You
have no idea where she's taking you.
[Percival looms menacingly over Merlin.]
SIR PERCIVAL
You heard Sir Leon. We've no interest in your opinion. So keep your mouth shut, or
I'll shut it for you.
[They enter the caves and Leon's torch goes out.]
SIR LEON
Is everyone all right?
MERLIN (whisper)
*spell*
[Merlin lights his torch and brings it up to light Sir Leon's. Lamia is gone.]
SIR LEON
Where's Lamia. Lamia!
[They enter a great hall to find it strewn with skeletons.]
MERLIN
What is this place?
SIR LEON
Whatever it is, it isn't safe. We need to find Lamia. She could be in danger.
MERLIN
We're the ones in danger, Leon. She's brought us here to-- She's led us to a trap.
SIR PERCIVAL
That's a lie!
MERLIN
She's poisoned your minds and you can't see--
SIR LEON
Enough!
MERLIN
It was Lamia that attacked Elyan!
[Leon grabs Merlin.]
SIR LEON
I said ENOUGH!
[Leon shoves Merlin to the ground.]
GWEN
Please! My brother's hurt! We need to find him somewhere warm!
[Leon is barely able to contain his anger and rushes out. They follow. Gwaine and
Gwen continue carrying Elyan between them. Gwaine stops.]
SIR GWAINE
Over here.
[They enter a vine-covered room and set Elyan down.]
SIR GWAINE
I'll make us a fire.
SIR LEON
Percival and I will search for Lamia.
[Leon gets in Merlin's face.]
SIR LEON
You will stay here and you will do as Gwaine says. Do I make myself clear?
[Gwaine crushes a box to use for firewood.]
--
[Arthur's party rides through the woods.]
KING ARTHUR
It's impossible. They can't have just disappeared.
AGRAVAINE
Could be that we're following the wrong tracks, my lord. Any number of people pass
through these woods.
KING ARTHUR
It was them. I know it was.
AGRAVAINE
Maybe we should go back to Longstead, try again in the morning.
KING ARTHUR
By morning they could all be dead.
AGRAVAINE
They're knights of Camelot, my lord, more than capable of looking after themselves.
KING ARTHUR
Maybe so, but you're forgetting one thing, Uncle. Guinevere is with them.
AGRAVAINE
I realise that, sire.
KING ARTHUR
We keep going. All night if necessary.
--
[32:19, INT. LAMIA'S CASTLE, VINE CHAMBER - DAY]
[Merlin leans against a column while Gwen sits on the floor stroking her brother's
head on her lap.]
GWAINE
We need more wood.
MERLIN
I'll go and get some.
[Gwaine laughs humourlessly.]
GWAINE
No. You stay where you are. I'll go get it myself. You're not going anywhere.
MERLIN
Gwaine, please listen to me. It's not safe for you out there.
GWAINE
You trying to tell me my business?
MERLIN
No, I'm just saying that...
GWAINE
What?
MERLIN
Nothing.
[Gwaine whips the torch in front of Merlin's face and stalks off. Merlin turns to
Gwen. She's crying.]
GWEN
If he doesn't get some help soon, he's not going to make it.
--
[33:00, INT. LAMIA'S CASTLE, CORRIDORS - DAY]
[Gwaine searches the castle, a hand on his sword hilt. He hears a noise and draws
his sword, but it turns out to be a rat crawling through some bones. Meanwhile,
Leon and Percival hear a hiss.]
SIR PERCIVAL
That was her. I'm sure of it.
SIR LEON (excited)

Lamia.
[Leon looks down both ends of the corridor.]
SIR LEON
It's nothing.
[Leon continues, but Percival hears a hiss and walks toward it.]
--
[33:47, INT. LAMIA'S CASTLE, VINE CHAMBER - DAY]
GWEN
I don't understand it. Why have only the knights been enchanted? Why not us as
well?
MERLIN
You're a woman.
GWEN
So?
MERLIN
All the victims have been men.
GWEN
So why haven't you fallen under her spell?
MERLIN
I've just been lucky, I suppose.
GWEN
There must be a reason.
MERLIN
Maybe it's because I'm not a knight.
GWEN
The three villagers weren't knights, either.
MERLIN
Who knows.
[Gwen shakes her head.]
GWEN
There's something about you, Merlin. It's the way she looks at you as if you were
the enemy.
[They hear a distant yell.]
MERLIN
Whatever you do, don't leave this room.
[Gwen tenses and tries to say something as he exits, not wanting him to leave.]
--
[34:26, INT. LAMIA'S CASTLE - NIGHT]
[Merlin hears the lamia hiss and investigates.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Gwaine?
[Merlin approaches Gwaine standing against a column.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Gwaine?
[Merlin touches his shoulder and Gwaine falls on him, slack jawed.]
--
[Arthur's party continues their search. Arthur finds one of Gwen's cloth scraps on
a broken tree.]
KING ARTHUR
Agravaine!
AGRAVAINE
Sire?
[Arthur holds the cloth scrap.]
KING ARTHUR
It's Guinevere's.
AGRAVAINE
How can you be certain?
KING ARTHUR
It's from her tunic. I'd know it anywhere. We must be close.
[Arthur rides off.]
--
[35:17, INT. LAMIA'S CASTLE - DAY]
[Merlin runs down a hall and hears the lamia hiss.]
--
[Arthur's party reaches the view of the lamia's castle.]
KING ARTHUR
Come on.
--
[35:33, INT. LAMIA'S CASTLE - NIGHT]
[Percival hears a girl weeping and investigates. He pulls back a curtain and finds
Lamia curled up on the floor crying.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Lamia.
[Percival crouches down to her and turns her to face him.]
SIR PERCIVAL
You all right? I've been looking everywhere for you.
LAMIA
I thought you might never find me. Thank you, Percival. Thank you.
[Lamia kisses Percival and her eyes glow green as Percival's life force is drained
and he falls unconscious.]
SIR LEON
No. No. No! No!
[Leon charges, sword drawn. Lamia throws Leon back, knocking him out. Merlin
arrives to find Lamia crouched over, kissing Sir Leon.]
MERLIN
You won't find me such easy prey.
LAMIA
Your magic holds no fear me. I could've killed you anytime I wished.
MERLIN
Then…what are you waiting for?
[Lamia attacks, throwing Merlin backwards. She hisses.]
MERLIN
Þurhdrif hie ecg!
[The spell throws a sword into Lamia's torso. Merlin gets up and checks Percival's
pulse. Lamia hisses from the shadows. Merlin searches for her and he's smacked with
a tentacle. The lamia pursues him.]
MERLIN
*spell*
[Merlin collapses the ceiling on the lamia. Gwen hears/feels the collapse. The
rocks seem to have squashed the lamia. Or maybe not. The lamia bursts through with
a shriek. Gwen hears it, grabs a sword, and goes looking for it. Merlin runs from
the lamia. Gwen finds Merlin running towards her.]
GWEN
Merlin.
[Gwen goes to Merlin, but he pushes her in the opposite direction and they take off
running as the lamia comes around the corner. The lamia knocks Merlin down, grabs
his leg with a tentacle and drags him in. The lamia is about to strike when…]
GWEN
Get away from him!
[Gwen charges the lamia and runs her sword into it. She strikes again, but loses
the sword and falls down. She and Merlin slide quickly backwards along the floor,
trying to scramble away from the tentacles, but the lamia looms overhead. Gwen
hyperventilates and Merlin raises a hand to cast a spell, his eyes glowing. The
lamia topples forward, a spear in its back, revealing Arthur behind it, leaning
over from his throw. Arthur steps cautiously forward, checking for any movement.
Gwen scrambles to her feet and runs to him.]
GWEN
Arthur!
[Gwen jumps into his arms. He laughs.]
MERLIN
You carry on. Don't worry about me.
KING ARTHUR
Sorry.
[Arthur pulls away from Gwen and helps Merlin to his feet.]
KING ARTHUR
Ha-ha. It's almost good to see you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Likewise.
KING ARTHUR
Almost.
[Merlin scoffs in amusement. Arthur goes back to Gwen and they walk out with their
arms around each other's waists. Merlin picks up Gwen's sword and follows.]
--
[Gaius treats the Knights of the Round Table. Arthur enters.]
KING ARTHIR
How are they doing?
GAIUS
I have given them the same compound that cured the villagers, sire. They're
fortunate that you got to them when you did.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Gaius.
[Arthur pats Gaius on the shoulder and Gaius nods. Arthur shakes hands with
Percival, who's awake. Arthur exits.]
--
[Arthur emerges from the temporary ward and sees Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR (teasing)

So…Merlin. Being saved by a woman, that really can't feel good.
MERLIN
Feels a lot better than being dead.
KING ARTHUR
Does it? Being saved by a woman…
[Arthur raises one hand, palm up.]
KING ARTHUR
…or dying…
[Arthur raises the other hand, palm up, and shifts them like he's weight the
scales. He drops his arms.]
KING ARTHUR
I'd have to think about that one.
MERLIN
Well, don't think too hard. I wouldn't want you to hurt yourself.
[Arthur drops his jaw in mock astonishment and punches Merlin genially in the arm
before sauntering off. Merlin grins.]
--
[Arthur stands at the table reading some documents. Someone knocks.]
KING ARTHUR
Come.
[Gwen enters.]
GWEN
You wanted to see me?
[Arthur turns around and leans against the table.]
KING ARTHUR
Just want to make sure you're all right. You've been through a lot these past few
days.
GWEN
I'm fine. Nothing a change of clothes couldn't cure.
KING ARTHUR
I thought I knew everything about you, Guinevere. Your loyalty, your wisdom. Since
when did you become this fearless hero?
GWEN (chuckles)
Well, maybe you just didn't notice before.
KING ARTHUR
Mm. Maybe I didn't. Truly…
[Arthur takes her hand.]
KING ARTHUR
You showed great courage back there.
GWEN
I did what anyone else would've done.
[Arthur stands.]
KING ARTHUR
You did a good deal more than that. You were equal to any knight of Camelot. I'm
proud of you.
GWEN (beams)
Really?
[Gwen steps closer. Arthur smiles affectionately.]
KING ARTHUR
Really.
[Arthur takes her in his arms and they kiss.]
-----------------------------------------------

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November 26 2011, 04:09
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4
BBC Merlin: 4x09 Lancelot du Lac
KILGHARRAH
--
[Agravaine walks down the corridor. Arthur gazes out the window and Merlin cleans
Arthur's armour as Agravaine enters.]
KING ARTHUR
Uncle.
AGRAVAINE
It's late, Arthur. What's troubling you?
KING ARTHUR
Nothing. Nothing at all. But I've made a decision and I felt it only right to
inform you right away. Though, I feel you're not going to like what I have to say.
I'm going to marry Guinevere.
[Merlin drops some of the armour in his surprise.]
MERLIN
Sorry.
KING ARTHUR
That is, if she says yes.
AGRAVAINE
Sire--
KING ARTHUR
No. I know what you're going to say. "She's a servant. I'm the king. It's not the
done thing."
AGRAVAINE
I fear it's a little more serious than that.
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere has proved herself valuable support and true counsellor these past few
months.
AGRAVAINE
You don't need a woman for support, sire. I'm your counsel.
KING ARTHUR
I fear you have rather too much stubble to be my wife.
[Merlin chuckles. He belatedly tries to cover it up with a cough.]
KING ARTHUR
Good counsel, solid support, they're exactly what I need. I don't want a queen who
spends her days floating around the castle agreeing with my every word. And the
people don't want that either. So, I've made up my mind. I want Guinevere to be my
queen, and I want you to accept her as such.
[Agravaine nods. Merlin smiles.]
--
[Morgana dozes in a chair by the fire. Agravaine approaches, leans down and puts a
hand on her back.]
AGRAVAINE
My lady.
[Morgana bolts awake and pulls a dagger on him.]
MORGANA
You better have a good reason for scaring me like that.
AGRAVAINE
I'm afraid I do.
[Agravaine pulls up a chair.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur is to make Guinevere his queen.
MORGANA
It's just like in my dream. I will not see that woman upon my throne!
AGRAVAINE
I don't see how we can stop her.
[Morgana gets an idea.]
MORGANA
There is one that can ruin King Arthur's plans. One that can come between them. We
all have our secrets and, unfortunately for Guinevere, I know hers.
[Morgana smiles.]
MORGANA
I know exactly how to destroy her.
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[03:02, EXT/INT. FOREST CAVE - DAY]
[Morgana enters the cave. A figure rises up behind her. Morgana turns to the
eyeless Dochraid.]
MORGANA
I come in peace.
[Morgana steps forward and the Dochraid grabs her hand and sniffs it. Morgana is
startled and confused, but doesn't move.]
THE DOCHRAID
Ah, Morgana Pendragon. You are destined to bring back the old ways.
[The Dochraid releases her hand.]
THE DOCHRAID
I hope to live to see that day.
MORGANA
You are one of the few people who remember the time of the Old Religion. I need
your help.
[Morgana takes the Dochraid's hand and places a medallion/coin in it.]
MORGANA
It was a gift from my sister.
[The Dochraid inspects the coin.]
THE DOCHRAID
Ah. Ah, most interesting present.
MORGANA
Price of a soul.
THE DOCHRAID
But you do not know how to release it.
[The Dochraid holds the coin to herself.]
THE DOCHRAID
I should like to keep it.
[Morgana holds out her hand to get it back and gently forces the Dochraid to give
back the coin.]
THE DOCHRAID
The gift is indeed a powerful one, but there's only one way to wield that power.
You must travel to the last of the five gateways that separate our world from the
world of the dead.
--
[05:12, EXT. POOL OF NEMHAIN - DAY]
[Morgana walks to the edge of a lake and continues walking straight into the
water.]
THE DOCHRAID (V.O.)

Find the pool of Nemhain, whose waters are as black as night and as still as death
itself. Cast the coin into its depths and your wish will be granted.
[Morgana fingers the coin and tosses it into the lake. It sinks into the lake and
she waits. The water bubbles where the coin landed and a dark head and pair of
muscular shoulders rise up out of the water. The man walks toward Morgana. It's
Lancelot.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
My name is Lancelot, my lady.
[He bows to her.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
I am yours to command. Morgana smirks.
--
[Morgana regards Lancelot du Lac, now fully clothed, as he sits on her bed, eyes
closed. He wakes.]
MORGANA
You must be tired. You've been on a journey few have ever dreamed of.
LANCELOT DU LAC
I know not where I have been, my lady, only that I am yours.
[Lancelot reaches for his sword, but Morgana stops him.]
MORGANA
Slow down. You won't be needing that. Not yet. We have work to do, but it's not
your sword I require so much as your heart.
--
[07:21, INT. KING'S PALACE, COURTIER BEDROOM - NIGHT]
[Gwen makes a bed. Arthur watches her from the doorway.]
MORGANA (V.O.)
There is a woman, a serving girl, a lowly peasant called Guinevere. Or Gwen, as
she's known to her friends.
[Arthur walks up slowly behind Gwen and places his hands over her eyes. She tenses.
]
MORGANA (V.O.)
There are many that have tried to win the hand of King Arthur.
[Arthur whispers in Gwen's ear. Something like, "I want you to keep your eyes
closed." Gwen smiles and keeps her eyes closed as Arthur pulls his hands away.]
MORGANA (V.O.)
But it was Gwen who won his heart.
[Arthur takes a cloth from around his neck and places the blindfold over Gwen's
eyes and she smiles with anticipation.]
MORGANA (V.O.)
She is honest and straightforward, and a simple soul.
--
MORGANA
Arthur trusts her entirely. As he does you. For you are Lancelot, the noble, the
brave, the honourable. You're everything the Knight's Code stands for.
--
[Arthur leads Gwen into her own house blindfolded.]
MORGANA (V.O.)
Before she was Arthur's, she was yours, Lancelot. You were her first love.
--
MORGANA
And you will be her last.
--
[Arthur removes Gwen's blindfold (her engagement ring on his little finger) and she
sees her home covered with candles. He takes her hand and leads her to a chair. She
sits down excitedly and he kneels down in front of her. Merlin peeks in through the
window, and pulls back just to listen.]
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?
[Arthur waits for her answer. Gwen bolts forward and hugs him. Arthur is confused.
Gwen sniffles tears of joy.]
KING ARTHUR
Is that a yes?
[Gwen pulls back.]
GUINEVERE (gasp)
Oh, sorry! Yes. Yes. Yes.
[They both beam. Arthur places the ring on her first finger and Guinevere smiles
more. Merlin smiles outside and leaves.]
--
[Lancelot sits on Morgana's bed, sleeping. The door closes and we hear...]
AGRAVAINE
How is it with our old adversary?
MORGANA
He's learning fast. Soon he will know enough to convince everyone he's the Lancelot
we all knew. I thought it would please me, molding his mind. Instead, I feel
curiously sad. He was once so mighty, and now he's nothing but a shade. I should be
sorry to see him go.
--
[Arthur rides a practice joust. He catches the decorated ring and the crowd cheers.
Guinevere sits in the royal box with Agravaine. Arthur rides to the box and
Guinevere steps down to take the ring off of his lance with a smile. He smiles
back. Back at the tents, Arthur rides off the field.]
MERLIN
I've got to hand it to you. If nothing else, it's certainly an original engagement
present.
[Arthur tosses Merlin his helmet and dismounts.]
MERLIN
Well, as romantic gestures go, you could've given her flowers. You could have had a
song written. Instead, you've given her two days of sweaty men knocking the sense
out of each other.
KING ARTHUR
Exactly as it should be. My father had a tourney before his wedding. It's
tradition.
MERLIN
Ah, so it's not even an original gesture, then.
KING ARTHUR
I think my future wife understands.
[Arthur raises his glass to indicate Guinevere in the stands, smiling as she takes
the decorated ring from Sir Percival's lance.]
GUINEVERE
Thank you very much.
[Percival rides off smiling. Guinevere sits back down happily. Trumpets announce
another rider.]
KING ARTHUR
Who on earth's that?
MERLIN
No idea.
[The rider runs the practice joust and catches the ring. The crowd cheers and
Guinevere politely applauds the stranger. She steps down and takes the decorated
ring with a furrowed brow. The knight pulls off his helmet to reveal Lancelot du
Lac. Guinevere is even more disturbed. Lancelot du Lac pulls back and nods to
Arthur and Merlin who stare at him, equally stunned.]
--
[11:43, INT. KING'S PALACE, DINING HALL - NIGHT]
[The Round Table members sit at a rectangular one. Arthur at the head of the table,
Guinevere on his right, Lancelot du Lac at the other end.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
I fear I remember very little after the moment I stepped through the veil. My story
will not be as illuminating as I would like.
KING ARTHUR
We're just pleased to see you. Well...please and amazed.
LANCELOT DU LAC
I owe everything to the Mudhabi people. When they found me, I was near death.
Luckily for me, their customs dictate that they must give food and shelter to the
needy. (sigh) And I was certainly that.
[Merlin watches Lancelot warily.]
SIR LEON
Where did they find you?
LANCELOT DU LAC
On one of the silk road passes, high in the Fiore mountains.
SIR ELYAN
Cenred's kingdom.
LANCELOT DU LAC
I travelled with them for many weeks, deep into the deserts of the south. Then,
slowly my strength returned. When I was able, I earned my passage the only way I
know how. By the sword.
[Lancelot du Lac smirks and the knights chuckle.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
Then I slowly made my way north.
KING ARTHUR
You made your way home.
[Lancelot du Lac nods. Arthur takes Guinevere's hand on the table. Agravaine isn't
pleased.]
KING ARTHUR
We can't thank you enough for what you sacrificed on the Isle of the Blessed. It
will be remembered always.
LANCELOT DU LAC (sigh)

It is, indeed, good to see you once again. I would like to propose a toast.
[He stands.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
To the people I hold most dear. To Camelot.
[They all raise their glasses.]
ALL
To Camelot.
KING ARTHUR
To Camelot.
[Lancelot smiles and drinks. Merlin is still unsettled.]
--
[13:07, INT. KING'S PALACE, MERLIN'S BED CHAMBER - NIGHT]
MERLIN
You can have my bed.
LANCELOT DU LAC
No. No.
MERLIN
Really, after all you've been through...it's the least I can do.
LANCELOT DU LAC
Thank you, Merlin. It's good to see you, too.
MERLIN
I've spent so long thinking about...what happened. Could I have saved you? And if
there was anything I could have done. If I could have used magic...
LANCELOT DU LAC (smiles)

If any of us had any magic, Merlin...
[Lancelot du Lac walks past him to the bed. Now Merlin knows something's wrong.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
Life would be a lot easier.
[Merlin walks to the door.]
MERLIN
Good night.
[Merlin closes the door as he enters the physician's chambers. Gaius sees his
worried expression.]
GAIUS
Oh, no. I've seen that face before.
MERLIN
I want to believe that everything is fine. And that we really have Lancelot back.
GAIUS
It certainly looks like him.
MERLIN
Yeah.
GAIUS
What is it?
MERLIN
I don't know. Something's wrong.
[Merlin sits next to Gaius and lowers his voice more.]
MERLIN
When he was telling his story, I sensed it. The way he greeted me, that made me
suspicious. But what happened just now, that's made me sure. He forgot I had magic.
Lancelot would never do that.
GAIUS
Strange, indeed. Give him time.
--
[Agravaine rides through the woods and dismounts. He walks slowly, searching for
someone. Morgana appears behind him.]
MORGANA
I'm keen to hear your news.
AGRAVAINE
I'm sure you'd be very proud, my lady. Arthur and his knights were completely taken
in.
MORGANA
And Gwen? This must be the last thing she hoped for on the eve of her wedding.
AGRAVAINE
If she was flustered, she certainly didn't show it. I fear she truly does love
Arthur. Any feelings she had for Lancelot are in the past.
MORGANA
I had considered that eventuality.
[Agravaine is confused. Morgana pulls out a bracelet. She begins to enchant it and
Agravaine is slightly disturbed.]
MORGANA
Beclyppe þinne idese þæt heo hine lyste!
[Morgana's eyes glow and the bracelet shines unnaturally for a moment.]
MORGANA
I think it's time to reawaken those feelings.
[They smirk as Agravaine takes the bracelet.]
--
[Guinevere brushes her hair and checks it in a small mirror. Someone knocks on the
door. She opens it to find Lancelot du Lac leaning against the door frame with a
charming smile. She's surprised.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
I wasn't sure I'd find you here. I thought you might have rooms in the palace.
GUINEVERE
I want to stay here as long as I can. It may not be much, but it's my home.
LANCELOT DU LAC
May I come in?
[Guinevere is disturbed.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
I only want to wish you well.
[Guinevere smiles and opens the door for him.]
GUINEVERE
I never thought I'd see you again.
LANCELOT DU LAC
I know.
GUINEVERE
When I heard what you'd done, I felt so guilty.
LANCELOT DU LAC
No.
GUINEVERE
You were protecting Arthur, just as I'd asked.
[Lancelot du Lac nods.]
GUINEVERE
If it weren't for you, there'd be no wedding. There are no words to thank you
enough.
LANCELOT DU LAC
There is no need for that. I did what I felt was right in my heart. You taught me
that, Gwen.
[Lancelot du Lac steps closer.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
To be true to myself. You will make a wonderful queen. Your love for your people is
surpassed only by your love for Arthur.
[Lancelot du Lac pulls out a cloth and unwraps the bracelet.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
The Mudhabi people gave me this token of good fortune for my journey. I'd like you
to wear it, for I see their goodness in you.
[He takes her hand and puts the bracelet on her wrist.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
It is a rare thing. And I was lucky to have been touched by it.
[Guinevere gives him a small smile. She tenses uncomfortably as he steps closer and
takes her face in his hands. He kisses her forehead and she relaxes with a relieved
sigh and smile.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
I wish you and Arthur everlasting happiness, Gwen.
[He looks back at her with a smile as he leaves. She smiles back, but it fades as
she looks uncertainly down at the bracelet.]
--
[Merlin studies a book about necromancy behind a screen. The pages show a dressed
skeleton standing on a kind of spiral.]
--
[The jousting tournament continues. Arthur and Lancelot du Lac win their jousts.
Guinevere is much more pleased by Arthur's success.]
--
[Merlin and Gaius eat supper.]
MERLIN
Mm. Chicken is good. Nice broth. What do you know about necromancy?
[Gaius stops just as he's about to eat.]
GAIUS
What?
MERLIN
Well, you know lots...about lots of things, don't you?
GAIUS
Necromancy is the most dangerous of all magical practices. Even in the days of the
Old Religion, such sorcery was viewed with the utmost suspicion. I know I'm going
to regret asking this, Merlin, but why do you want to know?
[Merlin looks at his bedroom door, where Lancelot du Lac is resting.]
MERLIN
I think that someone has raised Lancelot from the dead.
GAIUS
By "someone", I presume you mean "Morgana".
[Merlin nods.]
GAIUS
The old legends do speak of such creatures. They call them "shades". Poor,
tormented souls summoned from their rest by the necromancer's art.
MERLIN
So, it is possible?
GAIUS
Even if it is possible, we have no way of knowing for sure.
[Merlin pulls out a book. "The Art of Necromancy"]
GAIUS
Or do we?
--
[Merlin paints the floor with the spiral drawing from the book. He finishes and
spreads his hands over the paint.]
MERLIN
Onluc þa soþan treow!
[The paint glows red for a moment, then fades. Merlin hears something and peeks
through a crack in his bedroom door. Lancelot du Lac is finishing getting dressed.
Merlin dashes to Gaius's bed and wakes him with a shake.]
MERLIN (whisper)
It's time.
[Merlin and Gaius peer through the gaps in the closet door. Lancelot du Lac emerges
from Merlin's bed chamber and walks over the circle. The circle glows red and a
skeleton washes over Lancelot du Lac's features. They hear the door close and step
out of the closet.]
MERLIN
I didn't want it to be true.
GAIUS
I know. We all wanted him back.
MERLIN
More than anything.
GAIUS
This man's a shadow of his former self. A shadow with ill intent.
MERLIN
Do you think he means to harm Arthur?
GAIUS
Whatever his reason for being here, it can't be good.
--
[22:04, EXT/INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, TENT - DAY]
[Guinevere sneaks among the tents, the crowd cheering in the distance. She pulls
open a tent flap, the bracelet on her wrist, and enters Lancelot du Lac's tent.
He's dressing for his next joust.]
GUINEVERE
Here...let me.
[She helps him with his jacket.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
Thank you.
[Lancelot du Lac smiles darkly as Guinevere slides her hand down his arm.]
GUINEVERE
I just wanted to wish you well.
LANCELOT DU LAC
Shouldn't you be saying that to your future husband?
GUINEVERE
I do. I have.
[Guinevere becomes confused.]
GUINEVERE
I will.
[Guinevere remembers herself.]
GUINEVERE
I'm sorry, I don't know why I'm here.
[Guinevere gives Lancelot du Lac an uncertain look before she exits. Lancelot du
Lac smiles at his success.]
--
[Lancelot wins another joust. Guinevere is much more pleased than before, and less
pleased by Arthur's introduction. Arthur faces Sir Leon. Arthur wins as Leon falls
backwards off his horse and summersaults. The crowed cringes, then cheers for
Arthur. Guinevere smiles down on him as she applauds. Leon rises to his knees and a
servant helps him up. Sir Percival walks past Merlin, noticing Merlin's dour
expression.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Don't look so worried, Merlin. Arthur won.
MERLIN
Yeah. Now he's in the final with Lancelot.
SIR PERCIVAL
Yeah, I know. People are gonna love that.
[Lancelot du Lac and Arthur acknowledge the crowd. Agravaine watches Guinevere, who
looks uncertain about the match.]
GAIUS
You must be ready, Merlin. Your magic might be needed.
[The flag goes up and they joust. Both riders hit their opponent, but Arthur is
seriously injured. Guinevere stands up, concerned, as Arthur drops his lance and
leans forward in pain. He takes his next lance from the servant anyway.]
GAIUS
Arthur should withdraw. He's in no fit state to continue.
MERLIN
He wouldn't withdraw if his head was hanging by a thread.
[Arthur can barely hold the lance, but he starts to joust anyway. Lancelot du Lac
is unharmed, as he's already dead. Guinevere frowns as the joust continues. Arthur
is unable to lift his lance into attack position. As they come within range,
Lancelot du Lac yields his lance and the crowd cheers. Agravaine and Guinevere are
surprised.]
MERLIN
What's going on? Why did he yield?
[Arthur drops his lance and stumbles off his horse holding his side, doubled over
with pain. Lancelot dismounts and they walk to the centre of the field]
MERLIN
Well, I suppose I should be pleased Arthur's alive.
[Lancelot du Lac and Arthur meet in front of the royal box. Lancelot du Lac
kneels.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
My liege.
KING ARTHUR
Arise, Sir Lancelot. It's not necessary. I always thought you the noblest of my
knights. You just proved me right. Thank you for your courtesy.
[Lancelot bows.]
KING ARTHUR
Won't be forgotten.
[Arthur faces the box and the crowd cheers. Guinevere smiles at Arthur and he bows
his head. Lancelot du Lac and Arthur regard each other.]
LANCELOT DU LAC (nods)

Your Highness.
[Arthur nods back and leaves the field.]
GAIUS
If he's not here to kill Arthur, what's he here for?
MERLIN
I don't know.
[Merlin sees Guinevere sneak into Lancelot du Lac's tent.]
MERLIN
I wish I did.
--
[27:45, INT. TOURNAMENT GROUNDS, TENT - DAY]
[Guinevere circles Lancelot du Lac, running her hand over his shoulders, the
bracelet on her wrist. She entwines her fingers with his and rubs their hands
against her chin.]
--
[28:08, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Lancelot du Lac walks through the palace with a sword in his hand. He slides it
into his belt. Merlin follows him to the balcony corridor where he meets with
Agravaine.]
LANCELOT DU LAC
Everything is prepared. Gwen is on her way to our assignation as we speak.
AGRAVAINE
You've done well. Lady Morgana will be very pleased with you.
[Agravaine leaves and Lancelot du Lac returns the way he came. Merlin hurries into
hiding.]
--
[28:53, INT. KING'S PALACE, DARK CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Ladies walk down a corridor. Guinevere waits for them to pass and sneaks through
the castle.]
--
[29:03, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Lancelot du Lac walks toward the council chambers. Merlin throws him with magic
and Lancelot du Lac goes unconscious. Merlin approaches him and Lancelot wakes,
completely unaffected by the blow. He trips Merlin, draws his sword and knocks
Merlin out with the pommel.]
--
[Arthur is sleeping. Agravaine approaches the bed.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur.
[Arthur stirs a little.]
AGRAVAINE
Arthur.
[Arthur turns over and opens his eyes, confused.]
AGRAVAINE
Sorry. There's something you must see.
--
[29:54, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - NIGHT]
[Lancelot du Lac waits for Guinevere behind a column. She goes to him and hugs
him.]
GUINEVERE
Are you sure this is safe?
LANCELOT DU LAC
No one visits the council chambers at this hour of the night.
--
[Arthur and Agravaine walk towards the council chambers.]
--
[Merlin wakes, holds his head from the blow, then rushes to the council chamber.]
--
[Guinevere feels Lancelot du Lac's chest, smiles, and pulls him into a kiss.
Lancelot du Lac watches the entrance while they kiss. Arthur appears and Lancelot
du Lac closes his eyes. Arthur watches for a moment in shock. Merlin arrives too
late, he looks at Arthur's line of vision and sees Guinevere and Lancelot du Lac
snogging. Arthur's anger rises and he draws his sword and charges them.]
KING ARTHUR
AAAAARRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
[Lancelot du Lac steps away from Guinevere and draws his sword. Arthur attacks
furiously and elbows Lancelot du Lac in the face, making him drop his sword. Arthur
attacks him anyway, but hits the column. Lancelot du Lac shoves Arthur against
another column, making Arthur drop his sword. Guinevere freaks.]
GUINEVERE
Please!
[Arthur shoves Lancelot du Lac, who slides in reach of his sword and grabs it. He
rises to attack Arthur, but Merlin intervenes.]
MERLIN
Ecg misse!
[The sword drops out of Lancelot du Lac's hand. Arthur grabs his sword and yells as
he charges the defenceless Lancelot shade. Guinevere steps in his path.]
GUINEVERE
No! Please! Please! Please. Stop. Please, please. This has to stop! Please. Please.
Stop. This has to stop.
[Arthur looks at her, the betrayal written plainly on his face.]
--
[31:49, INT. KING'S PALACE, DUNGEONS - NIGHT]
[Lancelot du Lac is shoved into a cell.]
--
[Guinevere is shoved into another cell. She covers her face with her hands in
broken-hearted frustration. She sees Lancelot du Lac's bracelet on her wrist and
she rips it off and throws it into the corner. Guinevere collapses to the ground in
tears.]
--
[Agravaine talks to Arthur's back as he stares into his room, eyes bloodshot.]
AGRAVAINE
Far be it from me to advise you on personal matters, sire, but this is also a
matter of state. You've been made a fool of, and you must respond robustly. Of
course, in the days of your father, adultery in noble families was punishable by
death.
[Merlin stands in the room, arms folded, glaring at Agravaine.]
AGRAVAINE
But as for Lancelot, death's too good for him. He must die, but...painfully.
--
[The court waits in silence. Guinevere stands between two guards, surrounded by the
entire council, including the Knights of the Round Table. Agravaine stands by the
throne. He nods and the two guards force Guinevere to her knees as Arthur enters.
Arthur walks resolutely to the throne. He stands behind it, his back to the
council. Guinevere is pale, her face streaked with tears. Arthur speaks softly.]
KING ARTHUR
You will leave, please.
[Agravaine nods to the two guards and they depart.]
KING ARTHUR
All of you.
[No one moves.]
KING ARTHUR
Now.
[The knights and councilmen leave. Guinevere looks at her brother; he glares at her
disappointedly as he leaves. Agravaine remains.]
KING ARTHUR
You, too, Uncle.
AGRAVAINE
Sire--
KING ARTHUR
Now.
[Agravaine bows and exits. Arthur glares at the wall as he waits for the doors to
close. Guinevere sighs with grief. Arthur turns around and glares at her as he
walks slowly past her. She can't bring herself to look at him.]
KING ARTHUR
What are you still doing on your knees? Am I just your king? Get up for goodness
sake.
[Guinevere stands as he circles her.]
KING ARTHUR
I was to be your husband.
[Arthur completes his circle and faces her, finally looking her in the eye. She
holds his gaze, distressed.]
KING ARTHUR
What happened, Guinevere?
[She tries to say something, but has no answer and shakes her head.]
KING ARTHUR
We were happy. I know we were happy.
[Guinevere nods painfully.]
KING ARTHUR
You felt it too?
[She nods with her eyes closed. She shakes her head, still unable to speak, and
nods.]
KING ARTHUR
You love him? You've always loved him?
GUINEVERE (shakes her head)

No.
KING ARTHUR
All those times you said you wanted to be with me?
GUINEVERE
I meant every word.
[She's upset that he's doubting that.]
KING ARTHUR
Tomorrow...was our wedding day.
[Guinevere nods painfully, closing her eyes, suffering through a new bout of
tears.]
GUINEVERE
I know.
KING ARTHUR
If you had worries...
[She shakes her head.]
GUINEVERE
I wasn't worried.
KING ARTHUR
If you had doubts...
GUINEVERE
I didn't have any doubts.
KING ARTHUR
Then forgive me! Because I must be really stupid! WHAT WERE YOU DOING!?
[Arthur steps forward and grabs her arms in a vice grip. Guinevere sobs and looks
at him in emotional agony, unable to respond to his justified anger. Arthur
realises what he's doing and lets her go. He turns away, trying to calm himself.]
KING ARTHUR
Sorry.
[Guinevere rubs her arm.]
GUINEVERE
No. No. No, it is I who should be sorry.
[Arthur struggles to control his anger.]
GUINEVERE
You mean everything to me, Arthur...Once there was Lancelot, a long time ago. But I
haven't considered him in that way for many years. I thought he was dead. I thought
I would never see him again, and...and then...when I did, I was...overwhelmed. I
was drawn to him. I couldn't stop myself, I don't know why.
[Guinevere presses her hands to her face as if in prayer.]
GUINEVERE
I love you. You mean everything to me.
[Guinevere holds her hands to her stomach, barely able to get the last words out
through her sobs. Arthur is not moved by her words.]
GUINEVERE
All these years, I've waited for you.
KING ARTHUR
You only had to wait one more day.
[Arthur's voice cracks with emotion.]
GUINEVERE
All I've ever wanted is to be your queen. I still want to be your queen.
KING ARTHUR
Do you know what they're saying?
[Arthur points to the doors that the councilmen left through. Guinevere shakes her
head. She's been stuck in a cell.]
KING ARTHUR
That in my father's day, you'd be put to death.
[They regard each other and Guinevere takes a breath. She watches him for his
decision.]
KING ARTHUR
I don't want to see you dead, Guinevere.
[She waits, hoping.]
KING ARTHUR
But I don't want to see you.
[Guinevere is distraught by his answer.]
KING ARTHUR
I cannot look on you every day. You will leave Camelot at first light--
GUINEVERE
Arthur--
KING ARTHUR
You return upon pain of death.
[Guinevere sniffles.]
GUINEVERE
No.
[Arthur walks past Guinevere and she panics.]
GUINEVERE
No, no, no! I cannot be without you!
KING ARTHUR
That is my decision.
[Guinevere stops and he continues to the door.]
GUINEVERE
Where will I go?
[Arthur stops at the door and turns to look at her.]
KING ARTHUR
I am sorry. I am truly sorry.
[Arthur opens the door and leaves Guinevere alone in the council room.]
--
MERLIN
This is what Morgana wanted...all along.
GAIUS
She couldn't suffer the ignominy of seeing Gwen on her throne. It is, indeed, a
cruel revenge.
MERLIN
But it is Morgana who created it. I must make Arthur see that. If he knew that
Lancelot was a shade...
GAIUS
It wouldn't change what Gwen has done. It's the betrayal that matters to the king,
Merlin. Telling him of Lancelot's true nature won't change that. It's Gwen who must
pay the price.
--
[38:16, INT. KING'S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[Agravaine enters Lancelot du Lac's cell. He is chained to the wall. Agravaine
pulls out a letter with a black ribbon and seal.]
AGRAVAINE
This is from our Lady Morgana. She has one last wish for you.
LANCELOT DU LAC
Whatever my lady desires. I'm hers to command.
[Lancelot du Lac opens and reads the letter.]
--
[38:53, EXT. LOWER TOWN - DAWN]
[Gwen exits her house for the last time, dressed for travel. Merlin looks up from
where he's waiting. Gwen takes the yoke and begins to pull the cart. Merlin stands
and Gwen sees him. She pauses for a moment and then continues pulling the cart
awkwardly down the street. Merlin watches her go.]
--
[39:24, INT. KING'S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[Arthur stands despondently, staring into space, as servants take down the wedding
decorations. Merlin enters behind him.]
MERLIN
It's not too late, sire. I know what Gwen did was desperately wrong, but she is a
good person. I truly believe that.
KING ARTHUR
As do I, Merlin... As do I.
MERLIN
Can you find it in your heart to forgive her?
KING ARTHUR
That's not the problem.
MERLIN (angry)
Agravaine? Well, it is Agravaine, isn't it? He's wrong. People won't find you weak
or a fool. They will find you merciful, understanding.
KING ARTHUR
You're brave to speak out, Merlin. Gwen's your friend, I understand. I'm afraid
you're wrong. I love Gwen with all my heart.
[Arthur finally looks at Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
And I'm sure in time, I'll find a way to forgive her.
[Merlin doesn't understand.]
KING ARTHUR
But I'll never trust her. I can't live like that. Not as a king, certainly not as a
husband. And though it pains me...it's best that she's gone.
[Agravaine arrives with two guards.]
AGRAVAINE
Sire.
--
[41:06, INT. KING'S PALACE, PYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Agravaine, Merlin, Gaius, and Arthur stand over Lancelot du Lac's twice-dead
body.]
AGRAVAINE
The guards found him.
KING ARTHUR
What happened?
GAIUS
It appears he took his own life.
KING ARTHUR
I guess we shouldn't be surprised.
[Agravaine twitches a smile. Merlin glares at him.]
KING ARTHUR
In all ways but one, Lancelot was a man of honour. See to it that he receives a
proper burial.
[Arthur and Agravaine leave and Gaius covers Lancelot du Lac's face with a sheet.]
--
[41:35, EXT. LAKE - DAY]
[Lancelot lies on a boat made of twigs and covered in flowers. Merlin stands over
him and places a hand on his forehead.]
MERLIN
Grið fæstne mid þisse tintregian sawle!
[Merlin's eyes glow and Lancelot breathes sharply in as he wakes. Merlin is

shocked. Lancelot looks at him.]
LANCELOT (whisper)
Merlin. Thank you.
[Merlin tries to process what is happening. Lancelot smiles and closes his eyes,
breathing his last breath. Merlin cries with a smile, knowing Lancelot is at peace.
Merlin pushes the boat into the lake and sets the boat on fire with a flash of his
eyes. Merlin continues to cry sadly as he watches it burn.]
-----------------------------------------------

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November 30 2011, 13:38
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BBC Merlin: 4x10 A Herald Of The New Age

KILGHARRAH
--
[The knights rest in the forest, Elyan drinks from his flask.]
SIR ELYAN
All right, who drank all my water?
[Gwaine belches.]
KING ARTHUR
I believe you have your answer.
SIR GWAINE
You said I could have some.
SIR ELYAN
I said you could have some. I didn't say you could drink every last drop.
[Elyan throws the flask at Gwaine.]
SIR GWAINE
I was thirsty.
SIR LEON
Here. Have some of mine.
[Leon throws his arm forward, but loops it back and tosses it to Percival behind
him. They laugh.]
SIR ELYAN
Ha-ha. That's very funny.
SIR PERCIVAL
Here. Unlike these ignorant fools, I share with my friends.
[Percival steps forward with his flask, then tosses it to Merlin. Arthur smiles as
the others laugh. His smile fades when he sees a clothes line in the trees.]
KING ARTHUR
Shh!
MERLIN
What is it?
KING ARTHUR
I saw something in the trees. There.
[They approach the druid shrine, strung with strips of cloth.]
SIR PERCIVAL
What is this place?
[Arthur seems slightly disturbed as looks at a red flag picking up in the breeze.]
MERLIN (nervously)
This is a shrine. In the time of the Old Religion, they built shrines like this to
appease restless spirits. We shouldn't be here.
[They listen to the silence, the cloth waving eerily in the wind. Gwaine grabs
Merlin's shoulder to scare him. The other knights smile.]
MERLIN
It isn't funny. Gaius told me about places like this and they're cursed.
[Another breeze stirs up out of nowhere. A raven bursts out over head and they
jump. Leon smiles.]
SIR LEON
There's your spirit, Merlin.
[Arthur seems more disturbed.]
KING ARTHUR
There's nothing here for us. Move out.
[Elyan lingers as they leave. He hears drops of water and investigates to find a
well. He smiles and drinks. He looks down into the well and sees a boy. He looks
behind him, but there's no one there. Voices whisper in the wind. Creeped out,
Elyan picks up his sword and leaves.]
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[03:46, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARMOURY - DAY]
[Arthur stares into space has he absentmindedly unbuckles his bracers.]
MERLIN
You all right?
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean?
MERLIN
You're very quiet. You didn't say a word on the way home.
KING ARTHUR
It's called "thinking", Merlin. You should try it sometime.
SIR GWAINE
Merlin?
[Gwaine tosses Merlin a bag.]
MERLN
What's that?
SIR GWAINE
Salt. Pour it in a circle at the foot of your bed, helps to protect you from evil
spirits.
MERLIN
Really? Does that work?
SIR GWAINE
Absolutely. And if it doesn't, Gaius can always put it on his supper.
MERLIN
Very funny.
--
GAIUS
I am surprised that such a shrine exists so close to Camelot.
MERLIN
And it was cursed. I could feel it.
GAIUS
You were right to be wary. The druids built shrines to bring rest to tormented
souls; souls that were so badly wronged they could find no peace in the other
world.
MERLIN
Why do they hang all the ribbons and flags?
GAIUS
The ancient rituals heal the ground so the souls of the victims can find rest, but
the magic that binds the earth is delicate and is easily undone. So the ribbons and
flags act as a warning.
MERLIN
Should've known that earlier.
GAIUS
Did anyone touch anything?
MERLIN
Uh, no, I don't think so. Why? What is it?
GAIUS
Anyone who disturbs a resting place risks releasing the spirit. Merlin, you must
promise me you'll never return to that place.
MERLIN
Oh, don't worry. I've no intention of going back there. And for once I'm not lying
to you.
--
[Arthur stares into space, holding a spoon on his plate absentmindedly.]
--
[05:40, INT. KING'S PALACE, ELYAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Elyan gets into bed and blows out the candle. He closes his eyes and hears drops
of water. He opens his eyes.]
SIR ELYAN
Hello?
[He hears more drops and sits up in bed.]

SIR ELYAN
Who's there?
[He gets out of bed and investigates.]
SIR ELYAN
Show yourself!
[No one's there. He goes back and sits on the bed. He shakes his head and lays back
down. The well boy is on the other side of his bed. Elyan scrambles out of bed,
taking his sheets with him as he whimpers in fear.]
SIR ELYAN
No!
--
[07:06, INT. KING'S PALACE, ELYAN'S CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Gwaine hears Elyan's yelp as he walks down the corridor.]
SIR ELYAN
No!
--
[07:11, INT. KING'S PALACE, ELYAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gwaine enters to find Elyan in a curled up on the floor, shaking in fear. Gwaine
approaches and Elyan calms himself.]
SIR GWAINE
What are you doing?
[Gwaine moves and Elyan sees the well boy behind him. The boy puts a finger to his
lips.]
SIR ELYAN
Nothing.
[Gwaine looks at Elyan with confused concern.]
SIR ELYAN
I--I was getting a drink of water...tripped over the table.
SIR GWAINE
Uh-huh.
[Gwaine chuckles and gives Elyan a hand up.]
SIR GWAINE
I missed you at the tavern earlier. Percival broke Sir Brennis's wrist in an arm
wrestle.
SIR ELYAN
Sounds like fun.
SIR GWAINE
Not for Sir Brennis. Get some rest. Arthur's planned a training session in the
morning. You know how the King likes his training.
[Elyan nods with a smile.]

SIR GWAINE
Good night.
[Gwaine leaves. Elyan searches frantically through his cupboards. He ducks under
his bed and pours a circle of salt at the foot of it.]
--
[Merlin enters to find Arthur asleep at his desk with his head in his plate of
stew. Merlin slams his hand on the desk and Arthur bolts upright.]
MERLIN
Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you.
KING ARTHUR
You didn't scare me, I was asleep.
[Merlin tries to hold in his laughter at the stew all over Arthur's face.]
KING ARTHUR
Why have you got that stupid smile on your face?
MERLIN
It's nothing. Why were you sleeping with your head on the table?
KING ARTHUR
I fell asleep while I was reading.
[Merlin glances at the table, no parchment in sight.]
MERLIN
What were you reading?
[Arthur glances at the paperless table.]
KING ARTHUR
I am the king of Camelot, I do not have to answer to the likes of you.
MERLIN
Oh, you're in a good mood. You obviously got out of the wrong side of the table.
[Merlin laughs at his own joke. Arthur is not amused.]
MERLIN (laughing)
The wrong side of the bed, but you slept on the table.
KING ARTHUR (sarcastic)

That's extremely clever and funny, Merlin. There really are no limits to your wit.
Now, will you please just get me some breakfast?
MERLIN
Right.
[Arthur looks down at the plate of stew and moves it off of the platter. He sees
his reflection in the platter and lifts it for a better look.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin!
--
KING ARTHUR
Pair off! Concentrate on counter-cutting. Gwaine, you're with me.
SIR GWAINE
What's that in your hair?
MERLIN
It's stew.
SIR LEON
Why have you got stew in your hair?
MERLIN (as if it should be obvious)

Well, because he was reading.
[The knights give Arthur a confused look.]
KING ARTHUR
Change of plan. I think we'll try something different.
[Merlin stands in the training grounds wearing Arthur's helmet and a Pendragon
shield. He grimaces and holds the shield in front of his face as Arthur approaches
and beats Merlin's shield with a sword. He finally hits hard enough to knock Merlin
to the ground. Merlin stands up, holding his arm. He prepares as Elyan steps up
next and invites Elyan to strike.]
MERLIN
Elyan.
[Elyan starts softly, not really wanting to attack his friend. He starts to get
into it. A flash of anger crosses his face and his next strike knocks Merlin to the
ground. Elyan continues beating Merlin's shield.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan.
[Elyan doesn't stop and Arthur and the knights become concerned. Elyan raises to
strike again and Arthur grabs his arm, stopping him.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan. I think he's had enough.
[Elyan relaxes. Merlin takes off his helmet.]
KING ARTHUR (sarcastically)

You all right down there, Merlin?
[Merlin mumbles something.]
KING ARTHUR
Good.
--
[11:04, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARMOURY - DAY]
SIR PERCIVAL
Well, Merlin will feel that in his arms tomorrow.
SIR GWAINE
All this training, when will we see some real action?
[Leon and Percival chat. Elyan sees the sopping wet well boy in the corner between
them.]
SIR LEON
..you know?
SIR PERCIVAL
Yeah.
SIR LEON
It's crazy.
[The well boy steps forward.]
SIR ELYAN
No. Oh, no.
SIR LEON
You all right?
[The well boy steps around Leon towards Elyan and Elyan backs away.]
SIR ELYAN
Leave me alone!
[Elyan backs up into Gwaine. Gwaine shoves him off.]
SIR GWAINE
Watch yourself.
[Elyan shoves back and they struggle, Elyan still staring at the well boy, until
Gwaine punches Elyan out cold.]
SIR LEON
Elyan.
[Leon goes to Elyan. Percival looks down at Elyan on the floor, and then back at
Gwaine like WTF? Gwaine shrugs.]
SIR LEON
Elyan. Elyan!
[Leon shakes Elyan, but he doesn't wake up.]
--
[12:00, INT. KING'S PALACE, ELYAN'S CHAMBER - DAY]
[Gwaine and Leon look on as Gaius examines Elyan, lying on his bed with eyes wide
and staring.]
SIR LEON
Why doesn't he speak?
GAIUS
I don't know. It's strange.
SIR GWAINE
It's like he's lost his mind.
GAIUS
When I want your medical opinion, Gwaine, I'll ask for it.
[Leon looks at Gwaine and shakes his head.]
GAIUS
Perhaps you'd leave me alone to treat my patient.
[They start to head out.]
SIR GWAINE
It would be better if Arthur didn't know of this.
GAIUS
Why do you want to keep it from Arthur?
SIR GWAINE
Elyan hasn't been himself recently. He hasn't said anything, but he's clearly upset
about his sister's banishment.
GAIUS
Yes, it must've been hard for him to see that happen to Gwen.
SIR LEON
We wouldn't want Arthur to think that Elyan's loyalties are divided.
GAIUS
Well, I'm sure the King doesn't have to know about every accident that happens in
Camelot.
SIR GWAINE
Thank you, Gaius.
SIR LEON
Thank you.
[Leon and Gwaine exit.]
GAIUS
Elyan, can you hear me? Blink if you can hear me.
[Elyan doesn't blink. Gaius picks up his medicine bag, the top drops to the floor
and Gaius spots something as he bends to pick it up. It's the circle of salt. Gaius
touches it, smells it, and tastes it. Elyan continues his blank stare.]
--
[Arthur sits and stares out the window.]
MERLIN
Would you like me to make up the bed, sire, or will you be sleeping on the table
again?
[Arthur doesn't seem to hear.]

MERLIN
Is this about Gwen?
[Arthur looks down sadly.]
MERLIN
We all miss her. You more than anyone.
KING ARTHUR
You can go now.
MERLIN
Arthur--
KING ARTHUR
Get out.
[Merlin leaves and Arthur is left to his gloomy thoughts.]
--
[Merlin enters angry.]
MERLIN
I'm done!...trying to be nice to Arthur. I cook, I clean, I'm always there for him.
Not to mention that small matter of saving his life more times than I care to
remember. Do I get any thanks? No. All he ever does is shout at me.
[Gaius doesn't respond, focused on his reading.]
MERLIN
So now you're ignoring me. Great. I might as well not even exist. Hello, my name's
Merlin. Don't worry about me, I'm not even here.
[Gaius closes his book.]
GAIUS
I fear we may have more important things to worry about than Arthur shouting at
you.
MERLIN
What is it?
GAIUS
Did Elyan disturb anything yesterday at the shrine?
MERLIN
I'm not sure.
GAIUS
I need you to be sure, Merlin.
MERLIN
I don't know. He may have done. I tried to warn them. You know what they're like.
They don't listen.
GAIUS
I'm sorry, Merlin. It's just that I'm deeply concerned for Elyan. He hasn't spoken
a word since he regained consciousness and I can find no physical symptoms to
explain it. The only thing I could find was a pile of salt at the foot of his bed.
MERLIN
Oh, no.
GAIUS
What is it, Merlin?
MERLIN
He's trying to ward off an evil spirit.
GAIUS
With a pile of salt? That's utter nonsense.
MERLIN
Elyan believes it to be true.
GAIUS (sigh)
Then I fear that Elyan may have disturbed the spirit at the shrine.
MERLIN
What? What will that do to him?
GAIUS
I dread to think what horror it might unleash. you must tell Arthur what happened
at the shrine. You must tell him that Elyan is possessed.
MERLIN
Well, I'm not sure he'll believe me, not in the mood he's in.
GAIUS
You must make him believe you.
--
[15:54, INT. KING'S PALACE, ELYAN'S CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Elyan wakes from the sound of dripping water. Elyan bolts up in bed when he sees
the sopping wet druid boy.]
SIR ELYAN
Leave me alone!
DRUID BOY
Please don't be angry with me.
[Elyan processes the boy's words.]
SIR ELYAN
I'm sorry.
[Elyan gets out of bed and approaches the boy. He tries to touch him and the boy
backs away.]
SIR ELYAN
It's all right. Don't be scared.
[Elyan touches the boy.]
SIR ELYAN
You're so cold.
[Elyan hugs the child and the boy hugs him back.]
SIR ELYAN
It's all right.
[They let go and Elyan kneels down.]
SIR ELYAN
What do you want from me?
DRUID BOY
I want you to bring me peace. You must right the wrong that was done to me.
SIR ELYAN (nods)

How? What should I do?
DRUID BOY
It's easy. You must kill the king.
[Elyan tenses at the request, then nods.]
--
[Elyan waits for guards to pass by.]
--
[Arthur reads something at his desk. Elyan steps in silently, a sword at his hip.
Arthur looks up, startled, then rolls his head in relief.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan, you startled me. Is everything all right?
[Elyan steps forward and draws his sword.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan? What the hell do you think you're doing!?
[Arthur falls back in his chair to avoid Elyan's sword as it slams down on the
table. Arthur rolls out of the way as Elyan stabs the floor. Arthur uses a stool to
block Elyan's strikes until it's slashed apart and Arthur is left with only the
stool legs.]
KING ARTHUR
Guards!
[Arthur tosses the stool legs at Elyan and grabs a larger, sturdier stool. Elyan
continues to attack, but is distracted when the guards enter. Arthur throws the
stool at Elyan, then bolts forward to grab him, but Elyan is already running out.
The guards chase after him.]
--
[Agravaine addresses the knights.]
AGRAVAINE
I know Elyan is a friend to some of you, but that friendship ended when he tried to
kill the king. Do not let him escape. Now, go find him!
[The knights disperse.]
--
[Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
What happened?
KING ARTHUR
Elyan. He attacked me.
MERLIN
I think he's possessed.
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean "possessed"?
MERLIN
He may have disturbed a spirit at the shrine. I think that spirit's possessing him.
[Arthur seriously considers this.]
MERLIN
Why else would he attack you?
KING ARTHUR
Well, when we catch him, I intend to ask him that very question.
--
SIR GWAINE
I never thought I'd see the day we'd be hunting one of our own.
SIR LEON
I just can't understand why he would attack Arthur.
SIR PERCIVAL
Well, what would you do if your sister had been banished from Camelot?
SIR GWAINE
Well, my sister's an evil old toad, so I'd be eternally grateful.
[Elyan dashes out from his hiding place at the end of the corridor.]
SIR LEON
There he is!
[They run after Elyan. Elyan picks up a bench and throws it at them and topples a
candelabra, but they jump over it and catch him at a locked door. They face each
other, swords at the ready, Elyan only has a dagger.]
SIR LEON
Elyan, we don't want to hurt you.
SIR GWAINE
Put the knife down.
SIR PERCIVAL
Why don't we all just put our weapons down and sort this out like friends?
[Percival sheathes his sword. Gwaine and Leon do likewise.]
SIR ELYAN
I had to do it.
SIR PERCIVAL
Of course you did.
[Percival steps closer.]
SIR PERCIVAL
We understand. We're your friends.
[Elyan lowers the knife. They both sigh. Percival punches him out and looks at the
other two.]
--
[20:18, INT. KING'S PALACE, DUNGEON - NIGHT]
[Elyan is shoved into a cell by some guards. The guards leave and Elyan is freaked
out by the dripping druid boy.]
DRUID BOY
You failed me.
SIR ELYAN (terrified)

I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.
--
AGRAVAINE
Elyan must be tried and punished in accordance with our laws.
KING ARTHUR
But that would mean putting him to death.
AGRAVAINE
Well, so be it. You can't afford to show favouritism.
KING ARTHUR
What if Elyan wasn't acting of his own volition?
AGRAVAINE
What do you mean?
KING ARTHUR
Merlin believes that Elyan has been possessed by some kind of spirit.
AGRAVAINE
Oh. I have no doubt he's just trying to protect his friend.
MERLIN
Why else would Elyan attack Arthur?
AGRAVAINE
His motive is obvious. He seeks revenge. You banished his sister from Camelot.
MERLIN
I know Elyan, and no matter what he feels about his sister, he would never attack
Arthur.
AGRAVAINE
Arthur, you must see. All this talk of possession and spirits, it's just a ruse to
save Elyan's neck.
KING ARTHUR
But what if it is true? I'd be executing an innocent man. More than that, I'd be
executing a friend.
AGRAVAINE
You cannot be seen to allow someone to try and kill you and then escape punishment.
You will appear weak. That puts the whole of Camelot in Peril.
MERLIN
Arthur...
KING ARTHUR
Leave me.
[Merlin is disappointed and irritated that Arthur is taking Agravaine's side

again.]
KING ARTHUR
Both of you.
[Slightly bewildered, Agravaine follows Merlin out.]
--
[21:58, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBER S - DAY]
MERLIN
Agravaine is just pushing for Elyan's execution.
GAIUS
Arthur may have no choice but to sentence Elyan to death.
MERLIN
We can't allow that to happen.
GAIUS
What do you propose we do, Merlin?
MERLIN
Must be a way of ridding Elyan of the spirit that possesses him.
GAIUS
It would require very powerful magic
MERLIN
Then I must master it to save Elyan's life.
GAIUS
And you intend to expel the spirit in the cells under the noses of the guards?
MERLIN
Of course not. First we need to break Elyan out of the cells. Did I miss that
little part?
GAIUS
Ah-ha-ha-ha.
--
[22:25, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBER S - NIGHT]
[Merlin emerges from his room. Gaius brings him a flask.]
GAIUS
Elyan will have to be unconscious when you expel the spirit. I put a powerful
sedative in this water.
[Merlin takes it.]
GAIUS
And Merlin, remember, Elyan is not himself. You cannot trust him.
MERLIN
I know.
--
[Merlin looks down at the guards from the stairs. He sees a barrel nearby.]
MERLIN
Strangaþ bydenfæt.
[His spell knocks the barrel over the guards approach it. His eyes glow and the
barrel rolls down the corridor and the guards follow it.]
MERLIN
Wyrþ gatu fæst!
[His eyes glow and the gates behind them. Merlin unlocks Elyan's cell with some
keys.]
SIR ELYAN (surprised)

Merlin.
MERLIN
I don't have time to explain. You have to trust me.
[Elyan gets up and they head down the tunnels. Merlin unlocks another gate. The
warning bells ring and they start to run. They emerge outside the city.]
MERLIN
We need to make it to the cover of the woods.
--
[24:07, INT. FOREST - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Elyan run through the woods. They stop, panting.]
SIR ELYAN
You know, Merlin, you're much braver than you look.
MERLIN
You calling me a coward?
[They laugh.]
SIR ELYAN
I'm saying there's not many people with the courage to break someone out of the
cells.
MERLIN
I had to do it. They were going to execute you. I know that you would never hurt
Arthur. Not of your own volition.
[Elyan looks sharply at Merlin.]
MERLIN
After all that running, you must be thirsty.
[Merlin hands him the flask. Elyan takes it with a smile, but he sees the druid boy
shake his head behind Merlin.]
SIR ELYAN
Where are my manners? You must be thirsty, too.
MERLIN
No, after you.
SIR ELYAN
No, no, after you. I insist.
MERLIN
No, I had some water earlier. If I have too much, I have to pee all the time. Ask
Arthur, I'm always peeing. What are you looking at?
[Merlin looks at Elyan's line of sight. He sees nothing, but appears disturbed.]
SIR ELYAN
I'm sorry, Merlin.
MERLIN
For what?
[Elyan knocks him out. Elyan looks at the soaked druid boy.]
SIR ELYAN
I won't fail you again.
--
[25:30, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBER S - DAY]
[Gaius treats Merlin's head wound.]
MERLIN
Just before he jumped me, there was a presence there. I could sense it.
GAIUS
It was Elyan who was supposed to be knocked out, not you, Merlin.
MERLIN
I must find Arthur. Elyan could make another attempt on his life.
GAIUS
After Elyan's escape, Arthur was put under heavy guard. There's little more you can
do to protect him. This shrine...do you think you could find it again?
MERLIN
I'm not sure I want to. You said I was never to go there again.
GAIUS
We have to find out all we can about this spirit. Unless we know what we're dealing
with, we won't be able to help Elyan or Arthur.
[Merlin's not happy about going back.]
--
[Merlin leads Gaius to the shrine. Merlin stops.]
GAIUS
Merlin?
MERLIN
It's just through these trees.
[They enter the shrine.]
MERLIN
What are we looking for?
GAIUS
I'm not entirely sure. But remember, don't disturb anything.
MERLIN
Trust me, I won't.
[They split up to look around. Merlin hears a crunch of wood and turns sharply.]
GAIUS (whisper)
Sorry!
[Merlin hears whispers and crying and finds the well that Elyan drank from. He
looks into it and hears wailing voices. He begins to cry.]
MERLIN
Gaius!
[He steps back and holds his head, drying his eyes.]
GAIUS
What is it, Merlin?
MERLIN
Something terrible happened here.
[Gaius studies the well.]
GAIUS
These runes are in the druid tongue. I also found this.
[Gaius holds up an arrow.]
GAIUS
There are crossbow bolts scattered all around.
MERLIN
This was Uther's doing, wasn't it?
GAIUS
It is revenge for Uther's crime that the spirit seeks.
--
[Merlin enters while Arthur is reading over some documents. Arthur looks up
stonily, well aware of what Merlin's been doing.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, good of you to join me. Perhaps I should fill you in on all that's been
happening while you've been...that's a good question. What the hell have you been
doing?
MERLIN
I was--
KING ARTHUR
Choose your next words carefully. They may be your last.
MERLIN
I was searching...in the woods for some herbs for Gaius, very rare herbs, hard to
find, actually, and I got lost.
KING ARTHUR
You mean to tell me that you've been wandering around in the woods all night?
MERLIN
Yes.
KING ARTHUR
What happened to your head?
MERLIN
I-- I tripped over a root...and I hit my head on a tree and I knocked myself out.
[Merlin tries to chuckled at his own supposed clumsiness. Arthur's not fooled.]
KING ARTHUR
Mm. Well, after wandering around in the woods all night, knocking yourself out, you
must be hungry.
MERLIN
I'm starving.
KING ARTHUR
Pull up a chair. Tuck in.
MERLIN
Oh, thank you so very much, I am actu---you're joking.
[Arthur gives Merlin a blank stare as confirmation. Merlin takes away Arthur's
plate of food and exits. Arthur continues with his reading.]
--
[Merlin stops behind a column to finish off Arthur's chicken when he sees a hand
sticking out of an open door. It's an unconscious guard.]
MERLIN
Oh, no.
[Merlin drops the plate.]
--
[One of the guards behind Arthur drops without a sound. Arthur gets up and the
other guard drops. Arthur turns to see Elyan stepping around a column with a cross
bow aimed at him. Arthur dodges it and it hits his throne. Meanwhile, Merlin runs
back to the council chamber. Arthur takes one of the guards' swords and Elyan draws
one.]
KING ARTHUR
Why are you doing this?
[Elyan is not just sopping wet, but gushing with new water. Arthur draws back,
confused and unsettled.]
DRUID BOY (SIR ELYAN)

I must avenge my death.
[Druidboy!Elyan attacks and Arthur parries.]
KING ARTHUR
What've you done to Elyan?
[They continue to fight and Merlin arrives at the council chamber door, but it's
locked.]
MERLIN (muffled)
Arthur!
KING ARTHUR
Don't make me kill you, I don't want to kill you.
[They continue fighting. Merlin's eyes glow and he busts open the council chamber
door and enters, distracting Druidboy!Elyan. Arthur throws Elyan to the floor,
making him drop his sword, and steps forward, sword poised for the kill.]
MERLIN
Stop! That's not the Elyan we know!
[The doors close on their own. Arthur regards the now-defenceless Druidboy!Elyan on
the floor with a hard look and backs away. Druidboy!Elyan gets up and runs off.]
MERLIN
You let him go?
[Arthur breathes harshly, a dark look on his face.]
--
[31:50, INT. KING'S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[Gaius and Merlin wait as Agravaine reports to Arthur.]
AGRAVAINE
The palace is secure. No one is able to get in or out, and we're searching the
lower town even as I speak. Fear not, my lord, Elyan will be hunted down and slain.
I'll see to it personally.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Uncle.
[Agravaine nods and exits. Arthur turns secretively to Gaius and Merlin.]
MERLIN
You know that isn't Elyan or you wouldn't have let him go.
[Arthur nods.]
KING ARTHUR
When Elyan spoke to me, it wasn't with his voice. It was the voice of a boy, a
child.
GAIUS
That is the voice of the spirit that now possesses him.
KING ARTHUR
What do you know about the shrine, Gaius?
GAIUS
I believe the site was once a druid camp. There is evidence that the camp was
attacked. Your father was relentless in his persecution of the druids. Many died. I
believe it is one of those tormented souls that now possesses Elyan.
KING ARTHUR
And that's why he seeks his revenge.
GAIUS
The spirit craves peace. He wishes to find his proper place in the other world, but
the unjust nature of his death has denied him that.
KING ARTHUR
Is there anything that can be done to change this?
GAIUS
In druid lore, only the atonement of the perpetrator can bring the spirit peace.
MERLIN
But Uther's dead. He can't atone for what he did.
GAIUS
Indeed.
KING ARTHUR
What about Elyan?
GAIUS
Elyan is no longer the man you knew. The spirit has a hold on him that may be too
powerful to break. All we can hope is that he'll be found before he has a chance to
enact his revenge.
KING ARTHUR
And if we do find him?
GAIUS
Then I fear you have no choice...but to kill him.
--
[Arthur broods while Merlin clears the table.]
MERLIN
It's not your fault. You can't be held responsible for everything your father did.
KING ARTHUR
That'll be all, Merlin. Thank you.
MERLIN
You sure you don't want me to stay?
KING ARTHUR
I think I'm going to get an early night.
MERLIN
Yeah. Yeah, I'm pretty tired, too, what with having spent the night in the woods.
KING ARTHUR
No one said anything about you getting am early night, Merlin. In fact, you can
make up for your little escapade by polishing my armour.
[Merlin gives Arthur a look that says "seriously?"]
--
[34:26, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARMOURY - NIGHT]
[Merlin polishes Arthur's armour.]
--
[Merlin walks to his chambers and hears/sees Arthur walk down the corridor behind
him wrapped in a cloak. Merlin follows]
[34:49, INT. KING'S PALACE, TUNNELS - NIGHT]

[Arthur bears a torch as he walks through the castle tunnels. Merlin follows.]
--
[Arthur heads through the woods, Merlin close behind. Merlin loses sight of him.
Merlin searches, turns at something behind him but no one's there. Arthur steps up
behind Merlin, hood pulled down.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin.
[Merlin spins around.]
MERLIN
Fancy meeting you here.
KING ARTHUR
What the hell are you doing creeping around in the woods?
MERLIN
I'm following you. What the hell are you doing creeping around in the woods?
[Arthur takes off his cloak.]
KING ARTHUR
It's something I should've done a long time ago.
MERLIN
Elyan could be out here. Do you know how dangerous that is?
KING ARTHUR
I have to face him. Feel free to go back to Camelot anytime you like.
[Arthur continues on. Merlin follows. Arthur stops and looks back at him.]
KING ARTHUR
You're not going back then?
MERLIN
Thought I might tag along. Don't want you getting lost and scared.
[Arthur smiles a tiny bit and keeps walking.]
--
[36:05, EXT. FOREST, DRUID SHRINE - NIGHT]
[They approach and stop just outside the flags.]
MERLIN
You sure you want to do this? Maybe we should wait until it's light.
[Arthur continues on.]
MERLIN
Or we could just do it now. Whatever it is that we’re doing, in the dark, when it’s
incredibly scary and dangerous.
[They reach the centre of the shrine. Arthur draws his sword and lays it on a
rock.]
MERLIN
That a good idea? We might be needing it.
KING ARTHUR
I'm not sure a sword would be much use against a spirit.
MERLIN
What about against Elyan?
[Arthur ignores him and waits.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm here! That's what you want, isn't it?
MERLIN
What are you doing?
[Arthur looks at Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
Everything Gaius said about this place is right except for one thing. It wasn't my
father that led the raid on the druid camp. I did.
[Sopping wet Druidboy!Elyan appears. Arthur faces him.]
DRUID BOY (SIR ELYAN)

By blood is on your hands. I cannot rest because of what you did.
KING ARTHUR
I know.
[Arthur holds his hands out and kneels.]
KING ARTHUR (begins to cry)

I am responsible for what happened to you. And for all the violence that happened
here. When I led the attack on your camp, I was young and inexperienced. I was
desperate to prove myself to my men, to my...father.
[Druidboy!Elyan walks closer.]
KING ARTHUR (still crying)

I told the men to spare the women and children, but I know that some of them
ignored the order. And there was so much happening. I wanted to stop it...I froze.
I didn't know what to do.
[Druidboy!Elyan steps closer.]
KING ARTHUR (completely breaking down)

I can still hear the screams. I cannot right this wrong. Nothing I can ever do will
change the horrors that happened that day. But I can promise that, now that I am
king, I will do everything that I can to prevent anything like this ever happening
again. From this day forth, the Druid people will be treated with the respect they
deserve. I give you my word.
[Druidboy!Elyan draws his sword.]
KING ARTHUR
I am truly sorry for what happened to you.
[Arthur prepares himself for the blow, breathing hard. Druidboy!Elyan drops his
sword. Arthur is surprised. Druidboy!Elyan takes Arthur by the shoulders to bring
him to his feet, he looks into Arthur's face and hugs him. Arthur is astonished.]
KING ARTHUR
I forgive you.
[Druidboy!Elyan steps away and the spirit leaves like white smoke through Elyan's
mouth. Arthur watches it in awe. Elyan rouses, but stumbles forward, and Arthur
catches him.]
SIR ELYAN
Arthur?
[Elyan faints as tears run down Arthur's cheeks.]
--
[Merlin enters with Arthur's laundry. Arthur looks up from his reading.]
KING ARTHUR
How's Elyan? Is he going to be all right?
MERLIN
Gaius says he's going to make a full recovery.
[Arthur considers for a moment as Merlin puts the clothes in the closet.]
MERLIN
You know, that was incredibly moving what you said at the shrine.
KING ARTHUR
As long as Elyan's going to be all right, it served its purpose.
MERLIN
It wasn't just about Elyan, though, was it? You meant it. I know you did.
KING ARTHUR
Does this have a point, Merlin.
MERLIN
I don't think I've ever seen you cry before. Not like that. You had tears running
down your cheeks. It's nice to see this new sensitive, emotional side to you. It
suits you.
KING ARTHUR
Shut up, Merlin.
MERLIN
*gasp* I really thought you'd changed.
[Arthur closes the book he's been pretending to read.]
KING ARTHUR
Then you're as stupid as you are ugly.
[Arthur walks off.]
MERLIN
So, there's no chance that we could have a hug?
[Merlin opens his arms and Arthur stops on his way to the door. Arthur glares as he
turns around and Merlin starts an attempted runaway as they go off screen.]
MERLIN
Argh!
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November 30 2011, 13:41
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BBC Merlin: 4x11 The Hunter's Heart
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, EXT. VILLAGE - DAY]
[Gwen works in her yard wearing the red potato sack dress she wore four years
earlier. She pauses to catch her breath and fingers her engagement ring on the
string around her neck. She hears horses hooves and villagers begin to run and
shriek, trying to escape the raiders riding into town. Gwen ducks behind the wall
around her yard. A bandit knocks over a stand in the street and Gwen runs off. She
turns a corner and finds her path blocked by a dismounted bandit. She tries to back
up, but falls backwards and is quickly surrounded by bandits. The dismounted bandit
raises his sword to strike. He's stopped by their leader, Helios.]
HELIOS
Wait.
[Gwen recoils as Helios leans over to get a better look at her.]
HELIOS
There's still some pleasure to be had here.
--
[Merlin follows Arthur, talking quickly and incessantly.]
MERLIN
I'm not saying it's inappropriate. I mean, you're the king and I'm not, and of
course it's your choice, there's no doubt about that. It could hardly be my choice,
could it? What with me not being the king. But, nevertheless, I do feel I have to
say something because, strictly speaking, these clothes are only supposed to--
KING ARTHUR
Merlin.
MERLIN
Yes, my lord.
KING ARTHUR
Could you do something for me?
MERLIN
Of course. Absolutely. Not a problem, whatever needs doing.
KING ARTHUR
Could you...please...shut up.
[Arthur continues walking. Merlin pauses for a beat then continues talking.]
MERLIN
Yes, I can do that. Of course I can. That's not a prob--
KING ARTHUR (distance)

Now.
[Irritated, Merlin follows.]
--
[Arthur walks to the front of the room and faces his court. Merlin stands next to
Gaius.]
KING ARTHUR
My lords, fellow knights, gentlemen...as you are all aware, Camelot's claim to the
lands of Gedref has long been in dispute. Today I can announce that, after many
months of confidential negotiations, the kingdoms of Nemeth and Camelot have
reached an agreement.
[There's some murmuring among the court.]
KING ARTHUR
There's nothing to fear. It is a fair and honourable agreement that befits two
great kingdoms. Furthermore, our friendship will be cemented by a union that cannot
be broken. My hand in marriage to Her Royal Highness, Princess Mithian.
[There's some more murmuring and the court begins to applaud. Gaius sees Merlin
staring slack-jawed at Arthur.]
GAIUS
Smile.
MERLIN
He can't mean that.
GAIUS
And clap. Smile and clap.
[Merlin immediately puts on a big fake smile and claps.]
--
[Merlin follows Arthur back down the corridor.]
MERLIN
How come I didn't know any of this? How come you didn't say anything?
KING ARTHUR
That's what "confidential" means, Merlin. Keeping it from blabbermouths like you.
MERLIN
You can't do this.
KING ARTHUR
No, you're right, I can't. Oh, wait a second...I'm the king, so I can.
MERLIN
Surely it's a little bit...
KING ARTHUR (sharply)

A bit what?
MERLIN
Soon?
[Arthur feigns ignorance, but is clearly angry and upset.]
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean?
MERLIN
Erm, well--
KING ARTHUR
You mean Guinevere. I told you not to mention her name again.
MERLIN
Which is why I didn't.
KING ARTHUR
How many times do I have to tell you? Guinevere made her choice. She betrayed me.
Now she must take the consequences.
MERLIN
But--
KING ARTHUR
But what?
MERLIN
Nothing.
KING ARTHUR
That's right. Nothing.
MERLIN
Except that you still love her.
[Arthur stops in the doorway, Merlin glares at his back. Arthur pauses for a
moment, then turns around and marches angrily toward Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
You ever say anything like that again and I swear you'll join her in exile forever.
[They glare at each other and Arthur leaves.]
--
[04:04, INT. KING'S PALACE, SCROLL VAULT, NIGHT]
[A servant puts some scrolls away and locks them up tight. The servant locks the
door as he exits and walks down the corridor.]
AGRAVAINE
Eoghan.
[The servant jumps, startled as Agravaine steps out of the shadows.]
EOGHAN
My lord.
AGRAVAINE
Have you what I asked for?
EOGHAN
I, erm...it was not so easy as I thought.
AGRAVAINE
I hope you haven't forgotten how much I've done for you.
EOGHAN
No. No, of course not, my lord.
AGRAVAINE
Or how simple it would be for a man in my position to have you arrested. I should
hate to see such young life wasted.
EOGHAN
I cannot do it. I cannot betray my master's trust, my lord. I'm sorry.
AGRAVAINE
You'd rather betray mine. Mm?
[Agravaine fakes a chuckle.]
AGRAVAINE
Of course, I understand. You swore loyalty to your master. It's commendable.
[Eoghan sighs in surprised relief.]
AGRAVAINE
Now, come. Neither you, nor I, will say anything about it.
[Agravaine stabs Eoghan in the stomach. Eoghan coughs in pain and Agravaine knocks
him out with the butt of the knife.]
AGRAVAINE
Particularly you.
[Agravaine takes Eoghan's legs and drags him off.]
--
[05:20, Agravaine rides through the woods.]
--
[Agravaine enters.]
MORGANA
You're late. You have the plans?
AGRAVAINE
There have been some unexpected developments.
MORGANA
I hope you're not going to tell me you've failed me once again.
AGRAVAINE
I'm sure there'll be the other opportunities in the future.
MORGANA
Camelot grows in power every day, Agravaine. If we don't act now, there will be no
future. Particularly for you.
AGRAVAINE
It is not easy, my lady. Plans for the siege tunnels have always been very well
protected.
MORGANA
And yet you assured me you could bring them to me. Or were you exaggerating?
AGRAVAINE
No. Not at all. It will take time--
MORGANA
Enough!
[Morgana takes a moment and sighs.]
MORGANA
A man of your standing can go wherever he pleases, Agravaine.
AGRAVAINE
You're not suggesting I take the risk myself?
[She tilts her head.]
AGRAVAINE
But...if I should be caught...
MORGANA
Mm. Best not to be caught, then.
--
[06:31, INT. HELIOS'S TUNNELS - DAY]
[Guards stand watch outside the caves. A servant fixes Gwen's veil for her new
harem outfit.]
HELIOS
I was not mistaken.
[Gwen stands and the servant steps back.]
HELIOS
The filth of the pigsty cannot disguise true beauty.
[Helios bows.]
HELIOS
Helios. I'm only sorry we had to meet under such circumstances.
[Gwen curtsies.]
GWEN
Guinevere. I suppose I must thank you for my life. The villagers were not so lucky.
HELIOS
These are difficult times, I need new recruits. The youth of today are not
always...enthusiastic. Who are you? From what family do you come?
GWEN
I am no one.
HELIOS
I find that hard to believe.
GWEN
Nevertheless, it is true.
HELIOS
No matter. I'm not concerned with where a person comes from, only with what they
can become. Would you do me the honour of dining with me?
[Gwen isn't happy with the idea, but puts on a smile and curtsies.]
--
[An assembly gathers for the arrival of Princess Mithian. An armed guard precedes
her. Arthur wears his crown. The party halts.]
KING ARTHUR
Knights of Nemeth, Camelot welcomes you and extends the hand of friendship.
[The guards in front move aside and allow the princess to approach, Arthur steps
down from the stairs, taking a breath as he prepares to meet his future bride.
Princess Mithian raises her veil and Arthur's jaw drops, stunned by her beauty, and
she smiles a little. Merlin raises his eyebrows at her loveliness. Arthur collects
himself and steps forward as a guard helps her dismount.]
KING ARTHUR
Princess Mithian, you are most welcome.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Thank you, Your Highness. I have heard much about you, and you are more handsome in
person than reports suggested.
[Arthur isn't sure how to handle the compliment.]
KING ARTHUR
Erm...
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Are we to stay in this chill all day?
KING ARTHUR (confused)

Forgive me.
[Arthur takes her hand and faces his welcoming committee.]
KING ARTHUR
Tomorrow there will be a great feast to welcome our worthy friends.
[The knights, councilmen and courtiers applaud and smile. Merlin's smile fades.]
--
[09:35, INT. HELIOS'S TUNNELS, DINING CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Helios leads Gwen into a dining chamber of sorts. A lavish meal is set on a low
table surrounded by rich cushions and candlelight. Gwen is shocked.]
HELIOS
Were you expecting something different? Perhaps campfires and raw meat.
GWEN
I'm not sure what I was expecting.
HELIOS
Please, sit. I want to know all about you.
[Gwen sits on a cushion.]

GWEN
There's not much to tell.
HELIOS
Except how a beautiful woman ended up swilling out the pigs in the middle of
nowhere.
GWEN
It's a long story.
[Helios sits opposite her.]
HELIOS
I have all night.
--
[10:15, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MOAT - NIGHT]
[Agravaine dumps Eoghan's body and places a note in Eoghan's jacket before sneaking
off.]
--
[10:36, INT. HELIOS'S TUNNELS - NIGHT]
GWEN
Once they killed my family, I knew they would come after me. I had no choice but to
flee. I travelled many months before I found someone willing to take me in. Helping
with the pigs seemed a fair price for such charity.
HELIOS
You have suffered much for one so young. Now those days are truly behind you.
[One of Helios's men clears his throat as he enters.]
HELIOS' SERVANT
My lord.
HELIOS
I said we were not to be disturbed.
HELIOS' SERVANT
The Lady Morgana requests an audience.
[Gwen starts at the sound of Morgana's name.]
HELIOS
She's here?
[The servant nods.]
HELIOS
Make her welcome. Tell her I will see her right away.
[Gwen is stunned.]
HELIOS
Are you all right?
GWEN
Yes, of course.
HELIOS
You don't mind if someone joins us?
GWEN
I had thought we'd be alone.
HELIOS
It'll take but a few moments.
GWEN
I should retire.
HELIOS
There's no need.
GWEN
I'm very tired.
[She gets up. Helios stands up, too.]
HELIOS
But we have barely begun to know each other.
GWEN
I'm sure there will be time enough. Thank you for your kindness.
HELIOS
Until the next time, then.
[Gwen puts on a smile and curtsies. She pulls the veil over her face as she leaves.
Morgana doesn't even glance at her as they pass each other in the tunnel. Gwen
lowers the veil and breathes a sigh of relief. Morgana enters the dining chamber.]
MORGANA
You have company. You never change, Helios.
HELIOS
Do you have the plans?
MORGANA
Not yet.
HELIOS
That was our agreement, Morgana. Without them, any attack on Camelot would be
suicidal--
MORGANA
Well, I hear your force is not yet up to strength.
HELIOS
Preparations are nearly complete.
MORGANA
But not quite yet.
HELIOS
Are you doubting me?
MORGANA
No more than you me.
[Helios smiles in acceptance.]
HELIOS
I am sure we understand each other perfectly. Come...
[Helios pours a drink.]
HELIOS
You must be thirsty after your ride.
[Helios hands her the drink.]
HELIOS
You are welcome to stay.
[Morgana smiles at his attempt to charm her.]
MORGANA
Take care not to get too distracted, Helios. There's still much to do. Once I'm
crowned queen of Camelot, you may indulge yourself all you wish.
HELIOS
I may keep you to your word.
MORGANA
I'll look forward to it.
--
[13:21, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MOAT - DAY]
[Leon shows Agravaine the body he dumped.]
SIR LEON
I thought you should see for yourself, my lord, as soon as possible.
AGRAVAINE
You did the right thing, Sir Leon. Oh, what a shame.
[Agravaine looks up.]
AGRAVAINE
Poor boy must've lost his footing on that wall.
SIR LEON
And so I thought. The wall has a high parapet, it couldn't have been an accident.
AGRAVAINE
But he was drunk.
SIR LEON
Possibly, but there's no smell of intoxication.
AGRAVAINE
We only have one recourse. We must ask Gaius to examine the body. See if he can use
his expertise to tell us what happened to the unfortunate boy.
SIR LEON
I shall send for him at once.
[Leon walks off and Agravaine smirks at the body.]
--
[Merlin is sulking at the breakfast table, poking at his food.]
GAIUS
You going to sulk all day?
MERLIN
Not sulking.
GAIUS
You haven't said a word this morning.
MERLIN
I'm thinking.
GAIUS
You know how bad that is for you.
[Merlin sighs.]
MERLIN
It is Arthur's fate to marry Gwen.
GAIUS
If that's the case, then he will.
MERLIN
But am I supposed to do anything about it?
GAIUS
You don't think that's a little arrogant?
MERLIN
Yes! ...and no. I don't know. I don't know what to do anymore.
GAIUS
You could start by eating your porridge.
[An urgent knock at the door. Leon enters.]
SIR LEON
Gaius, I have a message from Lord Agravaine. He requires your presence.
--
[14:49, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MOAT - DAY]
GAIUS
Poor boy's broken his neck. You can see the bruising just here.
AGRAVAINE
Must be from the fall.
GAIUS
Possibly. But from such a height, one would expect more injuries. There isn't so
much as a graze, never mind any broken bones.
AGRAVAINE
What are you saying, Gaius?
GAIUS
I'm not sure. Not yet.
[Gaius turns Eoghan's body over.]
GAIUS
Something here in his tunic.
[Gaius pulls out the note Agravaine planted and reads it.]
GAIUS
It's a letter from Odin's court.
AGRAVAINE
Let me see.
[Agravaine grabs it and pretends to read it.]
AGRAVAINE
I must tell the king at once.
--
[Arthur reads the fake note.]
AGRAVAINE
Young Eoghan was the mapmaker's apprentice. He was a good lad from a decent family.
KING ARTHUR
Yet willing to sell his country's secrets for a few pieces of gold.
AGRAVAINE
And of course, he did have access to the city's most sensitive plans.
KING ARTHUR
The location of the siege tunnels.
AGRAVAINE
I fear so, my lord. And I don't need to tell you what an enemy could do with such
plans.
KING ARTHUR
Was anything else found alongside this letter?
AGRAVAINE
No, sire.
KING ARTHUR
Then it's possible the boy succeeded in his mission and was murdered for his pains.
I need to check the vaults.
AGRAVAINE
Yes, of course.
--
[15:58, INT. KING'S PALACE, SCROLL VAULTS - DAY]
AGRAVAINE
No sign of a forced entry.
KING ARTHUR
Boy would've had full access. There's no need to break the locks.
AGRAVAINE
A complete inventory will be necessary, my lord. With your permission, I'll start
right away.
KING ARTHUR
Meanwhile, double the guard and bring in the mapmaker. It's possible the boy wasn't
acting alone.
[Agravaine smirks as Arthur leaves him in the scroll vault alone.]
--
[Agravaine hands the siege tunnel map to Morgana.]
MORGANA
I hope you're not going to disappoint me once more, Agravaine.
AGRAVAINE
Plans to the siege tunnels of Camelot, as good as a key to the great gates.
[Morgana unrolls the map.]
MORGANA
But a good deal more deadly. De gelicnesse ond afæstne þa þim clute þa.
[Morgana's eyes flash and the map glows like fire. Morgana rolls the map up,
revealing a newly made duplicate underneath.]
MORGANA
You've done well, Agravaine. Finally.
--
[16:51, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER DINING HALL - NIGHT]
[The court dines on a feast. Arthur chats with Princess Mithian at the head of the
table. Merlin isn't pleased to find them smiling and laughing together. He casually
strolls to the head of the table to interrupt them.]
MERLIN
Would you like more soup, sire?
KING ARTHUR
No, thanks.
[Arthur turns back to Mithian.]
MERLIN
You sure?
[Arthur leans forward and lowers his voice.]

KING ARTHUR
Merlin, you've asked me that three times now. Will you just...
[Arthur makes a frustrated "go away " face and Merlin leaves. Mithian puts a hand
on Arthur's arm.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
You were saying?
KING ARTHUR
I...was very surprised.
[Merlin's eyes glow as he walks away and Arthur's hand flips a spoonful of soup
onto his chainmail.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Oh.
KING ARTHUR
Er...sorry, I, erm...
[Arthur begins to stand to clean himself up, but Mithian puts down her goblet and
wipes Arthur's chainmail with her napkin.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
No harm done.
[She chuckles at the situation and Arthur regards her warmly. They share a poignant
look and Merlin rolls his eyes. Agravaine approaches them and disrupts the moment.]
AGRAVAINE
The vaults are secure, my lord, and, er...there were no plans missing.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you for performing your duties with such haste, Uncle. Now you have to make
up for lost time. We're to have dancing and I hear that your jig used to be
something to behold.
AGRAVAINE
Er..."used" is the word, sire. A--alas I am not as nimble as I once was.
KING ARTHUR
Nonsense.
AGRAVAINE
I do feel that dancing is best performed in youth and appreciated in age.
[Arthur and Mithian chuckle and shake their heads as Agravaine departs hastily.]
--
[Arthur walks Mithian to her chambers.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm afraid the Festival of Istara will soon be upon us.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Should I be worried?
KING ARTHUR
It's a tradition in Camelot to have a hunt that day, but Merlin can arrange a tour
of the city.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
A tour?
KING ARTHUR
Some of the buildings go back many centuries.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Arthur, I love hunting.
[Arthur stops, surprised.]
KING ARTHUR
Really?
[Mithian stops and faces him.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Really. I believe these are my chambers.
KING ARTHUR (nods)

Of course.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Well then I bid you good night, sire.
[Mithian holds out her hand. Arthur takes and kisses it gallantly.]
KING ARTHUR
Goodnight, Princess.
[They regard each other for a moment. The pause continues and Mithian glances down
at their hands.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
If I may...?
[Arthur inclines his head, asking for the end of her question. Mithian nods down at
her hand and Arthur realises and lets it go. He clears his throat.]
KING ARTHUR
Sorry.
[She turns to leave.]
KING ARTHUR
Mithian.
[She stops and turns around.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Yes, my lord?
KING ARTHUR
I was...thinking, perhaps...
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Yes?
KING ARTHUR
You...might like some breakfast.
PRINCESS MITHIAN (confused)

Breakfast?
KING ARTHUR
Tomorrow. With me.
[Mithian begins to smile as if to hold in her laughter.]
KING ARTHUR
A picnic, er, somewhere. Nice. Somewhere nice.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
I look forward to it.
[Mithian smiles as she turns into her room. Arthur smiles, somewhat relieved. Then
shakes his head at his own botched invitation attempt.]
KING ARTHUR
Breakfast. I...rubbish thing to say.
[He walks off mumbling to himself.]
--
[19:59, INT. HELIOS'S TUNNELS, DINING CHAMBER - DAY]
[Morgana arrives at the caves and dismounts. Helios opens the siege tunnel map.]
HELIOS
Where did you get this?
MORGANA
The source is impeccable.
[Gwen peers out from behind a rock, listening to their conversation.]
HELIOS
If I'm to risk my men against Camelot, I need more than impeccable, Morgana.
MORGANA
The king's uncle and most trusted advisor Lord Agravaine. I doubt you'd find a
source more impeccable than that.
[Gwen pulls herself up on a jutting rock to see them through the entrance crack.]
HELIOS
Then it is only a matter of time. I will send word the moment our forces are at
full strength.
MORGANA
Don't delay. The treaty of Nemeth will be sealed within days.
HELIOS
It will be soon.
[The rock that Gwen is standing on breaks off and she stumbles backwards. Morgana
and Helios hear it and Gwen's retreating footsteps.]
MORGANA
Someone's listening.
[They rush out of the room in search of the spy.]
MORGANA
Did you see who it was?
HELIOS
Not for sure. Seal the camp! Account for everyone!
[Helios's men run through the tunnels. Helios checks Gwen's sleeping chamber
followed by Morgana.]
HELIOS
Any sign?
HELIOS'S SERVANT
She's taken nothing.
MORGANA
Who is this woman?
HELIOS
A serving wench I recently acquired, no more. Check the river.
[Morgana looks down and recognizes the red potato sack dress folded up on the bed.
She smiles and picks it up.]
MORGANA
Does this woman have a name?
HELIOS
Guinevere.
[Morgana scowls.]
MORGANA
Your appetite has betrayed you. She's no serving wench. We must find her now!
--
[Gwen runs through the woods, chased by Helios's men. She rushes down towards the
river, looks back for a moment and then steps down into the water. Helios's men run
down to the river and continue running along its bank. They pass and Gwen surfaces
from the water.]
--
[21:51, EXT. CAMELOT, FOREST RIDGE - DAY]
[Arthur leads Mithian by the hand to an outlook in the forest. Merlin carries all
of the food, blankets, and pillows.]
KING ARTHUR
How about here? What do you think?
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Well, the view is certainly spectacular.
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
[Merlin collapses to the ground as he puts down all of the picnic gear. Arthur
crouches down.]
KING ARTHUR
Ground isn't really smooth, is it? It's a bit bumpy.
[Arthur gets up and walks left a few paces.]
KING ARTHUR
Ah, what about over here?
[Mithian looks down at Merlin who is rolling his eyes.]
KING ARTHUR
Ah, yes, this is much better. Merlin.
[Mithian joins Arthur. Merlin picks up all the gear and hauls it over a few paces.
He puts it down. Arthur looks at him and takes a breath.]
KING ARTHUR
Perfect. Perfect.
[Merlin sets all of the gear down on the ground and rubs his shoulder.]
KING ARTHUR
Yet, is the view really as good?
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Arthur...
KING ARTHUR
You prefer the original. Right, then. Merlin!
[Arthur walks briskly back to the original spot.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Don't be so mean.
KING ARTHUR
He doesn't mind, do you, Merlin?
[Merlin shakes his head with a stiff smile.]
MERLIN
No.
KING ARTHUR
Besides, he needs building up. Look at him.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Enough. Thank you, Merlin. I'll do the rest.
[Merlin picks up all of the picnic gear and Mithian carries the picnic basket back
to the original spot.]
--
[Arthur and Mithian lounge on pillows, drinking from goblets. Mithian giggles and
Merlin shoots a disgusted look at the pair of them from his spot against a tree
trunk. Merlin's eyes glow and Arthur belches. Mithian's laughter fades, and Arthur
looks at her in embarrassment.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm sorry, I, ahem, really don't know what came over me. I...
[Arthur shifts awkwardly. Merlin's eyes glow again and Arthur belches. Mithian
looks at him curiously and Arthur tries to cope with his embarrassment, shaking his
head.]
KING ARTHUR
[Mithian belches loud and long and finishes with a smile. Arthur is taken by
surprise and they laugh. Merlin nods his head and mouths something like "Oh, well,
yeah, that's just great."]
--
[Morgana rides up to Helios in the woods.]
HELIOS
The trail has gone cold, we should call off the search until morning.
MORGANA
No, that woman must be found. I'll search all night if necessary.
HELIOS
She could be anywhere by now.
MORGANA
There's only one place she'll go. To Camelot and to Arthur. Gather your men.
[Helios whistles and his men return.]
--
[23:54, EXT. FOREST, CAMPFIRE - NIGHT]
[Gwen huddles near a campfire she built, still drying out from her swim. She
fingers her engagement ring on the necklace and starts at every noise.]
--
[Merlin emerges from his room as Gaius pours over Eoghan's supposed note from
Odin.]
MERLIN
I don't know why I bother. I should just leave him to it, let him make his own
mistakes, see how he gets on without me. I should resign.
[Gaius is too absorbed to pay attention.]
MERLIN
I said, "I should resign."
GAIUS (starting at the parchment)

Quite so.
MERLIN
Gaius, you're supposed to say, "No, no he needs you even if he doesn't realise it."
GAIUS (examining the parchment)

Something's not quite right here.
MERLIN
Exactly.
GAIUS (to himself)

I can't put my finger on it.
MERLIN
I have to go hunting. I hate hunting.
[Merlin puts on his jacket and heads for the door.]
MERLIN (sarcastic)
Thanks, Gaius, you really made me feel a whole lot better.
[Merlin slams the door shut on his way out and Gaius looks up.]
--
[Knights, servants, and guards prepare for the hunt. Arthur mounts his horse.]
--
[Mithian catches up with Merlin as he trudges miserably through the castle.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
You're not a fan of hunting?
[Merlin stops and turns and Mithian waits expectantly.]
MERLIN
What sport is it when one side has dogs and spears and crossbows and the other
nothing?
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Not much of a fan of me, either, are you?
[Merlin seems surprised.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Come on, Merlin, I'd have to be a fool not to notice.
MERLIN
I'm sorry if I caused offence.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
I'm sure you have, er, good reasons. One thing I've learned since being here is
that Arthur values your opinion above almost all others.
MERLIN
Oh.
[Merlin pretends to scoff, but smiles.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Even if he'd be the last person to admit it.]
MERLIN
You can say that again.
[Merlin is beginning to thaw a little towards her.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
I like him, Merlin. I really do. I didn't expect to, but...well, he's a loveable
person, isn't he? Underneath it all. All I ask is that you give me a chance. Can
you do that?
[Merlin nods.]
MERLIN
Yeah.
[Merlin smiles with a nod and Mithian smiles back.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Thank you.
--
[Morgana rides through the woods in pursuit of Gwen. She stops and sees smoke from
Gwen's campfire rising in the distance.]
--
[26:33, EXT. FOREST, CAMPFIRE - DAY]
[Gwen wakes at the sound of a horse whinny. She gets up and begins to run. She
passes a tree and snaps one of its branches in her rush. Morgana continues and
stops to look for any signs. She spots the snapped twig and heads off in that
direction. Gwen runs full tilt now as Morgana gallops through the woods. Gwen
falls, but gets up quickly and keeps going. Morgana catches up and cuts her off.]
MORGANA
Gwen. Nice to see you again. Oh, you've forgotten. I've hunted these woods since I
was a child.
GWEN
Leave me alone. You've already done enough harm.
MORGANA
You misjudge me. We were friends once, were we not?
[Gwen scoffs.]
MORGANA
I only wish to help. The path to Camelot is that way.
[Morgana points.]
GWEN
You think I'd ever trust you again?
MORGANA
Mm, true, I might be lying. But perhaps not.
GWEN
I know these woods, too.
[Gwen runs off.]
MORGANA
Truth is, it doesn't matter which way you go.
[Morgana's eyes glow and Gwen screams as Morgana throws her into a tree. Gwen falls
to the ground, unconscious.]
--
[Hunting horns sound as Arthur and Mithian's party make their way through the
woods.]
--
Morgana glowers down at Gwen and snatches the engagement ring necklace off of
Gwen's neck. She starts as she hears the hunting horn. She looks down at Gwen,
smirks, and drops the ring.]
MORGANA
You wish to see your beloved Arthur again? And so you shall. Nu bebiede ic þe þæt
þu lætest þine flæsc sclice gelic nysse. Wyrþ deor!
[Morgana's eyes glow and a golden shimmer glows over Gwen's body. Morgana leaves
with a smirk.]
--
[Merlin walks alongside Arthur and Mithian's horses.]
MERLIN
Maybe we should call it a day.
KING ARTHUR
Nonsense. We've barely begun.
MERLIN
Not much point in hunting if there's nothing to hunt, is there?
KING ARTHUR
Well, we could always give you a five minute head start, Merlin.
[Mithian smiles at Arthur's joke.]
SIR LEON
Deer!
[They chase after a doe running through the woods. Merlin slows to a walk and
separates from the group. He spots the doe and it looks at him. He senses something
and hears Gwen's weeping. The doe reflected in his eye forms into a tearful Gwen as
his eyes glow. He realises what's happened and sees Gwen's running reflection as
the doe passes by a small puddle. The hunting party passes by Merlin and he comes
to his senses and chases after them.]
SIR LEON
Beauty.
[Leon aims, but gives up when he notices Arthur next to him.]
SIR LEON
Sire, she's yours.
[Arthur aims and the doe stops and looks at him. Arthur shoots and Merlin's eyes
glow. The bolt misses and Arthur gives his crossbow a confused look.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
I thought you were a good shot, my lord.
[Mithian aims and fires.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Gold sovereign says she's hit.
[They urge their horses forward. Merlin runs through the woods searching for Gwen
while the rest of the party searches for traces of the doe.]
SIR LEON
Deer tracks.
KING ARTHUR
Ah. It can't have gone far.
[Merlin looks worriedly around the woods while Arthur searches for more deer
tracks. Arthur sees something shiny on the forest floor and crouches down to pick
it up. It's Gwen's engagement ring on the necklace and he recognises it.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Have you found the trail? My lord?
[Arthur stares at the ring, completely lost in it.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
My lord?
[Arthur looks up at Merlin, trying to process the pain of this shock. Merlin
breathes heavily and continues to roam his eyes around the woods worried for Gwen.
Mithian looks at Merlin and back to Arthur, sensing something's wrong.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
My lord?
[Arthur stares off into the woods, breathing heavily in his emotion.]
KING ARTHUR
There'll be no more sport today.
[Arthur gets up and walks past Mithian, lost in his own head.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
I didn't take you for a poor loser. Sire?
[She looks back at Merlin, trying to sort out Arthur's dark mood.]
--
[Merlin rides into the woods searching for Gwen.]
MERLIN
Gwen! Gwen! Gwen!
[Merlin dismounts and goes searching for her on foot.]
MERLIN
Gwen?
[He spots something.]
MERLIN
Gwen? Gwen?
[He finds her lying unconscious, shaking from cold and shock, a crossbow bolt in
her leg. Merlin pulls out the arrow and places his hand over the wound.]
MERLIN
Ic hæle þina þrowunga.
[His eyes glow. He places a hand on her shoulder and eventually she sighs and stops
shaking, relaxing into sleep.]
--
[Merlin sits with Gwen as she sleeps. She wakes.]
GWEN
Merlin!
MERLIN
How are you, Gwen?
GWEN
I'm all right!
[She hugs him happily.]
GWEN
I think. What are you doing here?
MERLIN
You were injured.
GWEN
Oh, yes, I remember now. Where's Morgana?
MERLIN
She was here?
[Gwen nods.]
GWEN
She enchanted me. She and the Southrons and Helios, they're planning to attack
Camelot.
MERLIN
They'd never succeed. They must know that.
GWEN
They have help. Agravaine gave them plans of the siege tunnels under the citadel.
MERLIN
Agravaine?
[Gwen nods.]
MERLIN
We must tell Arthur.
[They hear something nearby.]
GWEN (whisper)
What's that?
[The sound of hoof beats draws near. Merlin gets up to check and sees three knights
riding through the woods. Merlin smiles a little.]
MERLIN
It's a Camelot patrol. They can lend you a horse.
GWEN
No.
MERLIN
But Gwen--
GWEN
Please, Merlin.
[She grabs his hand to stop him.]
GWEN
I can never see Arthur again.
MERLIN
He wants to see you.
GWEN (shakes her head)

It cannot be. Not after I betrayed him.
[Merlin stares at Gwen.]
GWEN
You go. Tell him of the danger.
MERLIN
Gwen, if you stay here--
GWEN
I have what I deserve.
[Merlin tries to grab her hand and pull her with him.]
GWEN
Go! Hurry.
[She nods to him.]
GWEN
Go.
[Merlin looks at her with a furrowed brow and then heads off.]
--
[Arthur broods in his room, fingering Gwen's engagement ring. Merlin bursts in.]
MERLIN
Sire, I need to talk to you.
KING ARTHUR
I told you I didn't want to be disturbed.
MERLIN
Sire, it is important. Very important.
KING ARTHUR
You defy me? You defy your king?
MERLIN
Yes, I do. You know I would not do so unless the situation was grave.
[Arthur puts the ring on a table and grabs his gloves to follow Merlin out.]
--
[Arthur marches through the castle with Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
The idea is preposterous! I've known my uncle since I was a child! I refuse to
believe that he would ever betray Camelot!
--
[35:37, INT. KING'S PALACE, SCROLL VAULT - DAY]
[Arthur unlocks the cabinet with the siege scroll map.]
KING ARTHUR
Plans for the siege tunnels are kept here.
[Arthur opens the cabinet and feels around the back for a while. Merlin's
confidence builds and his irritation rises. Then Arthur pulls out the map. Merlin
is confused. Agravaine enters as Arthur opens the scroll.]
MERLIN
I don't understand.
[Arthur puts the scroll away.]
AGRAVAINE
I came as soon as I could, my lord. Is there a problem/
KING ARTHUR
No, Uncle, not at all. I'm sorry to have inconvenienced you.
MERLIN
Can we please--
KING ARTHUR
One more word out of you and I swear to God I will send you into exile.
[Merlin looks at Agravaine and Agravaine smirks at him.]
--
[Arthur sits on the end of his bed, fully dressed in his chainmail, fingering
Gwen's engagement ring. A door opens and Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
Have you not slept, sire?
[Arthur doesn't move. Merlin stands dutifully, arms folded in front of him.]
MERLIN
Is there anything you need?
KING ARTHUR
How can I love someone who's betrayed me? It doesn't make any sense. And how can I
make myself love another? Tell me that.
MERLIN
If there is nothing else that you require, perhaps I could--
KING ARTHUR
I don't know what to do. I have no idea...what to do.
[Merlin watches Arthur struggle and Arthur looks at him.]
KING ARTHUR
What should I do, Merlin?
MERLIN
All I know, my lord, is that no one would sacrifice more for Camelot or you than
Gwen.
KING ARTHUR
And if that were so?
MERLIN
You must do what your heart tells you, sire.
KING ARTHUR
What if I don't know what that is?
MERLIN
I think you do.
[Arthur looks down at Gwen's ring and plays with it as he thinks.]
MERLIN
Is there anything else, sire?
KING ARTHUR
You may go.
[Merlin bows and walks off.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Merlin.
[Merlin looks back as he exits.]
--
[Princess Mithian's escort waits for her in the square as she descends the steps.
Arthur faces the square as she passes him without a word.]
KING ARTHUR
Princess.
[She stops, but doesn't turn around as she puts on her riding gloves.]
KING ARTHUR
Forgive me.
[She turns to face him.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
The time for words is over, sire.
KING ARTHUR
I understand. And it is for this reason that I hereby offer you and your
descendents all the disputed lands of Gedref.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
You would give up your ancient claims?
KING ARTHUR
I have no desire for war. Or to grieve you any more than I already have.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Such an offer cannot be rushed into.
KING ARTHUR
I've had my scribed draw up an agreement.
[He pulls out a scroll.]
KING ARTHUR
If you're happy with the terms, I'll sign forthwith.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
And if I refuse?
KING ARTHUR
It's all I can offer. I do so most humbly.
[He bows his head and looks down, then looks her in the eye and holds out the
scroll, waiting for her response. She considers him for a moment and then takes the
scroll.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Tell me...who is it that trumps a princess?
KING ARTHUR
No one.
[Arthur thinks for a moment.]
KING ARTHUR
And everyone.
[Mithian's mood lightens.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
What great family is she from?
KING ARTHUR
None. She's the daughter of a blacksmith.
PRINCESS MITHIAN
And for her you would risk your kingship? Your kingdom?
KING ARTHUR
Without her, they're worth nothing to me.
[Mithian considers this and looks down.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
Hm.
[Merlin watches Mithian's reaction.]
PRINCESS MITHIAN
I would give up my own kingdom to be so loved. Farewell, Arthur.
[Arthur smiles a little.]
KING ARTHUR
Farewell, Princess.
[Mithian gives him a small smile back and turns away with a bittersweet look.]
--
[Merlin prepares Arthur's bed as Arthur stares out the window, lost in thought. He
turns suddenly to Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
Have I been a fool?
[Merlin looks up.]
KING ARTHUR
To give up so much for a woman who betrayed me? A woman who I might not even see
again?
MERLIN
You will see her again. You did the right thing, my lord. As I knew you would.
KING ARTHUR
And how could you be so sure?
MERLIN
Because...you're Arthur. You're noble. You're the once and future king.
KING ARTHUR
Doomed to be a bachelor.
[Merlin chuckles.]
KING ARTHUR
What's the point of loving someone who cannot be found?
MERLIN
Gwen will be found. You will find each other.
KING ARTHUR
Are you really wise, Merlin, or just a prating fool? I can no longer tell.
[Merlin takes a couple steps and knocks over the chamber pot, then looks up at
Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
As if there was ever any doubt.
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December 18 2011, 01:28
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BBC Merlin: 4x12 The Sword in the Stone, Part 1
KILGHARRAH
--
[00:13, INT. KING’S PALACE, KING ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Arthur dresses behind the screen.]
KING ARTHUR
What’s taking so long?
MERLIN
It’s the Feast of Beltane, the king must look kingly.
KING ARTHUR
I’m hardly going to look kingly in my undergarments, am I?
MERLIN
Have a little patience. Think of something pleasant.
KING ARTHUR
You in the stocks?
MERLIN
Wait one second...
[Merlin fiddles with something.]
KING ARTHUR
One?
[Arthur steps out from behind the screen and Merlin spins around, hiding something
behind his back.]
KING ARTHUR
What have you got there?
MERLIN
Nothing. My hand.
[Merlin shows his right hand, then hides it behind his back.]
MERLIN
My other hand.
[Merlin shows his left hand, then hides it behind his back. Arthur walks forward
dressed in everything but his trousers. He turns Merlin around and sees his belt in
Merlin’s hands. He takes it.]
KING ARTHUR
Why are you putting another hole in this belt?
MERLIN
I was, er...enhancing it for comfort and ease of use.
KING ARTHUR
Are you saying I’m fat?
MERLIN
No. I’m saying that the belt is one hole shy of perfection.
KING ARTHUR
Ridiculous.
[Arthur tries to put the belt on over his chainmail. He cringes as he tries to
squeeze it tight.]
KING ARTHUR
Come on.
[It won’t close.]
MERLIN
Don’t be too hard on yourself. A little extra padding goes with the job. What, with
all the feasts and banquets and ceremonies.
[Arthur gives up on the belt and hands it to Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
Right, Merlin, do what you have to do. Not a word of this to anyone, understand?
MERLIN
Trust me, if there’s one thing I’m good at it’s keeping secrets.
--
[01:26, EXT. KING'S PALACE, SIEGE TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Agravaine strikes a match, lights a smoke grenade and launches it at the feet of
the sentries guarding the entrance to the siege tunnels. The guards cough and pass
out. Agravaine steps past them and signals Morgana's troops with a torch. They
signal back.]
--
[01:57, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[The dining room bustles with conversation as Arthur enters. He passes Gaius as he
heads to the head of the table.]
KING ARTHUR
Have you seen Agravaine?
GAIUS
Er, no, sire. Not since this morning.
KING ARTHUR
Strange. He should be here by now.
[Arthur takes his place at the head of the table and Merlin arrives with a heaping
plate of food.]
KING ARTHUR
Ah! My favourite. Herb crusted caper.
MERLIN
Easy now, we don’t want any more holes in that belt.
[Percival chokes on his wine as he sniggers.]
KING ARTHUR (forced)

Ha-ha.
MERLIN (to Gaius)

Wine?
[Gaius nods and Merlin pours him a glass.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin.
[Arthur nods for him to lean in. Merlin steps closer and Arthur grabs the front of
his shirt.]
KING ARTHUR
It’s a good job you don’t have anything of any actual importance to keep secret,
isn’t it?
--
[02:31, INT. KING'S PALACE, SIEGE TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Agravaine exits the tunnels and looks for Morgana's army, worried that she's not
there yet. His expression relaxes and he smiles when he sees the Southrons
approaching. He leads them through the tunnels.]
--
[Arthur watches Sir Percival chatting up a lovely lady. He turns away, depressed.]
MERLIN
You all right?
KING ARTHUR
No one likes to be called fat, Merlin.
MERLIN
Sorry.
[Arthur looks around, continuing to mope.]
MERLIN
It's Gwen, isn't it?
KING ARTHUR
I look for her in the room; she’s not there… then I remember why.
--
[03:33, EXT. KING'S PALACE, CITY GATE - NIGHT]
[Southrons snap the necks of the sentries at the gate, then cover the lower town
with lighter fluid. Agravaine drops a torch on it and the whole lower town goes up
in flames. He smirks. Morgana watches from the hills, Helios at her side and the
Southron army behind her.]
MORGANA
It's time.
[OPENING TITLES]
--
[04:38, EXT. CAMELOT, LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[The townsfolk flee as knights attempt to put out the fires. Elyan shouts an
order.]
SIR ELYAN
[...] We need more water. Now!
SIR LEON
Forget about the water.
SIR ELYAN
But if we can't--
[Leon grabs Elyan's arm and directs his attention to the arch where the Southron
army is advancing.]
SIR ELYAN
How did they breach the gate?
SIR LEON
We can't worry about that now. Quickly, sound the alarm!
[The knights draw their swords.]
--
[Arthur stands in confusion as the warning bells sound and Gwaine enters.]
SIR GWAINE
Sire! We're under attack! They're within the city walls!
[Arthur takes off his cloak.]
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, get everyone to the inner chamber.
MERLIN
Yes, sire. Everyone follow me!
[Arthur jumps over the table and grabs a sword.]
KING ARTHUR
Gwaine, secure the armoury! Percival, with me!
--
[Elyan runs into Agravaine marching down the corridors with the Southrons.]
SIR ELYAN
This is your doing.
AGRAVAINE
Oh, stand aside. There's nothing you can do about it now.
[Elyan draws his sword.]
SIR ELYAN
I can kill you for the traitor that you are.
[Agravaine draws his sword.]
AGRAVAINE
Brave words, Elyan. And they shall be your last.
[Elyan is thrown backwards and falls to the floor unconscious. The Southrons step
aside revealing Morgana behind them with a hand raised.]
MORGANA
We don't have time to play soldiers, Agravaine.
[Morgana marches past them and they follow.]
--
[Arthur leads the defensive through the corridors. Southrons pour into the main
square.]
--
[05:57, INT. KING'S PALACE, INNER CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Gaius help the wounded.]
MERLIN
The lower town is lost. It's only a matter of time before they reach the citadel.
GAIUS
But how did this happen? How did they get in without being detected?
MERLIN
We knew Agravaine was planning something.
GAIUS
It seems your worst fears have been realized, Merlin.
[Merlin takes off.]
GAIUS
Merlin!
MERLIN
I've got to find Arthur!
--
[06:18, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDORS - NIGHT]
[Arthur slices through Southrons on his way down the corridor. Merlin runs to find
him.]
--
[06:39, EXT. CAMELOT, LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[Helios kills his way through the lower town.]
SIR LEON
We can't hold them for much longer! Lead the people to the woods! Retreat! Retreat!
--
[Arthur and his knights fights Southrons. Arthur kills the two attacking him, but a
third takes down one of his knights and turns on Arthur, striking him in the ribs.
Merlin arrives. Arthur elbows the attacker in the face and clutches his side as he
runs down the corridor. Merlin intercepts him and pulls him around the corner.
Arthur yells in pain.]
KING ARTHUR
Been hiding in the broom cupboard as usual, Merlin?
MERLIN
We need to get out of here!
[Merlin shoves Arthur down another corridor, then turns back to the Phoenix
corridor as the Southrons run toward them.]
MERLIN
Bæl on bryne!
[Merlin's eyes glow and the torch fires spring across the width of the corridor,
blocking the Southrons as they cower back.]
--
[07:21, EXT. KING'S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Arthur run down the corridor, Arthur still clutching his side.]
MERLIN
Are you all right?
KING ARTHUR
I'm fine.
[They stop against a column and Arthur grunts in pain.]
KING ARTHUR
Maybe a broken rib or two.
[Arthur peeks around the corner and sees Helios and Morgana leading the Southron
army. His expression changes to shock when he sees Agravaine with them. He rests
back against the column.]
KING ARTHUR
Agravaine.
[Arthur's anger rises and Merlin grabs him to stop him from launching out to face
the entire Southron army alone.]
MERLIN (whisper)
No! It's no good! Arthur! There are too many of them. We can deal with your uncle
later. All right?
[Arthur calms a little and Merlin lead him away.]
MERLIN (whisper)
Go.
--
[Knights, guards, and townsfolk flee the city.]
SIR LEON
Quickly, this way! Go on! Quickly! Go on!
[Leon looks back at the burning city.]
--
[08:27, INT. KING'S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - NIGHT]
[Helios approaches Morgana who lounges on the throne alone.]
HELIOS
The city has fallen. Camelot is ours.
MORGANA (unimpressed)
And?
[Helios gives her a look. She rises from the throne.]
MORGANA
Taking Camelot was the easy part, Helios. I want Arthur. Where is he?
HELIOS
He's right here, my lady. In the palace. He's nowhere left to run.
[Morgana smiles. Helios smiles and laughs as Morgana stalks past him.]
--
[09:05, INT. KING'S PALACE, INNER CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Gaius tends to Arthur.]
GAIUS
I can bind the ribcage, but even that would run the risk of puncturing a lung.
KING ARTHUR
Do whatever it takes, Gaius, just so long as I can swing a sword.
[Gwaine and Percival bar the doors.]
GAIUS
How do we stand?
SIR PERCIVAL
The citadel is overrun. We can't hold out much longer.
GAIUS
How long before they reach us?
SIR PERCIVAL
Minutes at best.
MERLIN
We can't wait for Arthur. If they find him, they'll kill him.
SIR PERCIVAL
We must get him to safety while we still can.
SIR GWAINE
Arthur would never abandon his people. He'd rather die.
MERLIN
Barricade the doors. Give us as much time as you can.
[Merlin and Gaius step aside.]
MERLIN
We need to get Arthur out of here whether he likes it or not. Give him some kind of
potion, something to knock him out?
GAIUS
I don't have anything strong enough. In my chambers, perhaps, but the Southrons
control the palace.
MERLIN
There must be something.
GAIUS
I'm sorry, Merlin. Maybe there's something you can do. Arthur won't go willingly.
What if he was to lose his will?
MERLIN
Are you suggesting magic?
GAIUS
You'll do it?
MERLIN
I can try.
[Merlin steps behind Arthur and Gaius steps in front of him as Arthur leans back
against the table.]
GAIUS
I'm sorry, sire, this is going to hurt.
KING ARTHUR
Just get on with it!
[Gaius presses his hands into Arthur's wound and Arthur howls in pain.]
MERLIN
*spell*
[Merlin's eyes glow and Arthur stirs weirdly. Gwaine and Percival rush up.]
MERLIN
We need to leave now, sire!
[Merlin looks at Gaius, waiting.]
ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON

Of course.
[Arthur stands up, slightly unsteady and the others look at each other. Merlin
gives Gaius a shrug and Gwaine and Percival brush off their surprise.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Then let's go.
[Percival slings Arthur's arm around his neck and helps him out.]
SIR PERCIVAL
We'll use the posting gate.
[Merlin gathers Arthur's things. Gwaine stops as the walk out and offers his hand
to Percival.]
SIR GWAINE
I'll keep them off your back as long as I can.
[Percival looks surprised for a moment, then grasps Gwaine's outstretched arm and
exits with Arthur. Gaius just stands there.]
MERLIN
Gather your things, Gaius.
GAIUS
You go, Merlin. I'll just slow you down.
MERLIN
Gaius, no.
GAIUS
You must know it's for the best.
MERLIN
No, if you stay here--
SIR GWAINE
No time to argue. I'm sorry.
[Gwaine shoves Merlin toward the exit.]
GAIUS
Look after our king, Merlin.
[Merlin hesitates, then runs off. Gwaine and Gaius face the door. The Southrons
burst in, Morgana in their midst. Gwaine allows his sword to be taken.]
GAIUS
It seems your victory is short-lived, Morgana.
[Morgana scowls and turns to the door.]
MORGANA
Prepare the horses! We're going on a hunt.
--
[Percival support Arthur through the woods, Merlin at their side. They slow to a
stop.]

Thank you, Percival.
MERLIN
Can you walk on your own?

Oh, yes. Just point me in the right direction.
SIR PERCIVAL
Shh!
[Percival grabs someone.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Elyan.
SIR ELYAN
[...] on my account.
[They smile.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Is the way out of Camelot clear?
SIR ELYAN
As far as I can tell.
[They head off, while simpleton!Arthur lingers to watch Camelot burn. Merlin waits
for him.]
MERLIN
Come on, Arthur.
[Merlin nods for Arthur to follow and he walks on slowly.]
--
SIR PERCIVAL
They'll come after us. They know Arthur's still alive.
SIR ELYAN
Then we have to make it across the border, find sanctuary anywhere we can.
MERLIN
I know a place. Ealdor. It's near the white mountain. Wait!
[They stop and Merlin turns back to listen. He hears hoof beats.]
MERLIN
Listen.
SIR PERCIVAL
Run!
[They run as Morgana, Agravaine, and the Southrons ride straight for them.]
MORGANA
*spell*
[Morgana's eyes glow and they're all thrown forward. Merlin and Elyan help Arthur
to his feet and they keep running. Southrons pursue on foot.]
MERLIN
Where's Percival?
SIR ELYAN
We have to go!
[They reach a rock trench and Elyan stops.]
SIR ELYAN
Go!
[Arthur runs on. Elyan hands Merlin a sword.]
MERLIN
What about you?
SIR ELYAN
Don't worry about me. Go!
[Merlin runs off. Elyan steps into the trench opening and fights off the Southrons
as they come one at a time.]
--
[Merlin stops running and holds up a hand and simpleton!Arthur runs into him.]

Sorry! My fault.
[Merlin is surprised by this new development.]
MERLIN
Well, I think we're safe for now. But we need to find you some kind of disguise.
You're too conspicuous in those clothes.
[Arthur looks down at his armour and red cape.]

Well, whatever you say. I'm entirely in your hands.
[Merlin stares at simpleton!Arthur for a moment and they continue on.]
--
[Morgana is curled up on the throne, smiling up at Helios as Agravaine enters.]
AGRAVAINE
All quarters of Camelot are now under our control. Some knights have fled to the
woods, but those that did not escape are either in our dungeons or dead.
MORGANA
Very good.
[Agravaine smiles at Morgana, but it fades when he catches Helios's eye.]
MORGANA
Now [...] the people of Camelot welcome me as their queen?
AGRAVAINE
They will swear allegiance to no one but Arthur.
MORGANA
I expected no less. Burn their crops.
[Agravaine is clearly shocked.]
MORGANA
Let’s see how they feel when their children begin to starve.
HELIOS
And what of Arthur?
[Morgana nods and a couple of Southrons shove Elyan into the chamber. Helios nods
and they shove him to his knees in front of Morgana.]
MORGANA
We'll find Arthur soon enough.
--
[15:00, EXT. WOODS, HUT - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur find a hut with laundry hanging on the clothesline outside.
Arthur hunches down over Merlin's shoulder.]
MERLIN
Perfect.
[Arthur nods like an imbecile behind him as Merlin tries to get up with Arthur
squeezed in next to him. Merlin sits against a wall as Arthur changes.]
MERLIN
In your own time. Obviously.
Agh. Sorry, Merlin. Some of these things are a little on the tight side.
MERLIN
Beggars can't be choosers, sire.

No, you're right. Probably should learn to think before I speak, shouldn't I?
[Merlin smiles.]
MERLIN
It'd be a start.

Agh. All done.
[Arthur steps out from behind the wall for inspection. The trousers reach just
below the knee, the sleeves barely reach past his elbows, and the shirt shows a
large section of midriff. Merlin closes his eyes and laughs.]
MERLIN
Well, Arthur, what can I say? You look like a total turnip head.

Well, should I try something else? There's--there's plenty more here.
MERLIN
No. No. That-- that will do absolutely fine. Although, maybe I'll take that.
[Merlin takes the money pouch on Arthur's belt.]

My gold.
MERLIN
Probably safer with me.

Of course.
[Merlin smiles a bit, then gives simpleton!Arthur a strange look.]
--
[16:09, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL TORTURE CHAMBER - DAY]
[Morgana holds out a small black snake.]
MORGANA
Do you know what this is? No? It's a Nathair in the mountains of Asgaard. Harmless
enough most of the time, but with a little persuasion, it can cause a man pain
beyond all imagining. So you have a choice. Tell me where Arthur is...
[Elyan smirks.]
MORGANA
Or sample the delights of my little friend here.
SIR ELYAN
I'll tell you nothing.
MORGANA
I was hoping you'd say that.
[Morgana holds up the snake.]
MORGANA
*spell*
[Morgana grabs Elyan. Helios and Agravaine watch as Morgana applies the snake and
Elyan screams in agony. Later, Helios eats some chicken while he and Agravaine wait
outside the torture chamber, listening to Elyan's screams. Agravaine is clearly
disturbed.]
AGRAVAINE
Good God, will it never end?
HELIOS
What's wrong? Don't have the stomach for it?
[Helios smirks at Agravaine. Morgana exits the torture chamber.]
MORGANA
Arthur travels to Ealdor. You will leave without delay. And Agravaine, fail me
again and you'll be taking Elyan's place.
[Agravaine shoots Helios a look. Helios smirks and walks off at Morgana's side.]
--
[Elyan is dragged to the same cell as Gaius and Gwaine. Gwaine catches Elyan as the
Southrons drop him and lock the door.]
SIR GWAINE
What have they done to him?
GAIUS
This is the work of the Nathair serpent. He's been tortured to the limit of human
endurance.
SIR GWAINE
Can you help him?
GAIUS
I'll do what I can.
--
[18:05, INT. KING'S PALACE, KING ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Morgana reads Arthur's documents. Agravaine enters.]
MORGANA
I thought I told you to leave at once.
AGRAVAINE
My men are all ready to depart.
MORGANA
Then what are you waiting for?
AGRAVAINE
I...
[Morgana looks at him with a confused scowl.]
AGRAVAINE
I just wanted to say goodbye.
MORGANA
Consider it done.
AGRAVAINE
And to ask you to take care.
MORGANA
Why? I have nothing to fear.
AGRAVAINE
Despite all that you have achieved, Morgana, you must remain cautious. There's
danger at every turn. You can trust no one. Not even Helios.
[Morgana smiles and leans back.]
MORGANA
No one except you, is that it?
AGRAVAINE
I am your one true ally, my lady. I am your one true friend. I would do anything
for you, you know that.
MORGANA
I am grateful for your loyalty, Agravaine. That is why I've entrusted this mission
to you.
AGRAVAINE
I understand. Of course I do. I only wish it did not take me from your side where I
can best protect you.
MORGANA
Find Arthur and you need never leave my side again.
[Agravaine bows.]
AGRAVAINE
My lady.
[Agravaine exits and Morgana sits back and considers their conversation. Agravaine
leads the Southrons out of Camelot.]
--
[Merlin senses something.]
MERLIN
Stop.
[Merlin listens, then turns to simpleton!Arthur and speaks slowly.]

MERLIN
Wait here.
[Simpleton!Arthur nods and Merlin heads off. Arthur heads off in the other
direction. Merlin catches sight of set of travellers breaking camp. Someone puts a
sword at his back. It's a blonde woman.]
ISOLDE
Hello.
[She smiles. Isolde brings Merlin and Arthur to Tristan, who's sharpening a knife.]
ISOLDE
I found them lurking in the woods.
TRISTAN
See anything interesting?
MERLIN
No.
[Merlin and Arthur duck as Tristan throws the knife into the tree behind Merlin's
head.]
TRISTAN
You want to watch where you stick your beak, boy.
MERLIN
I didn't see anything, I promise. We were just passing through.
ISOLDE
They've no horses, no supplies, nothing.
TRISTAN
Like to travel light, do you?
MERLIN
Something like that.
TRISTAN
So where're you headed?
MERLIN
North over the border.
TRISTAN
Lot's kingdom. He doesn't take kindly to strangers, I can tell you. Likes to
decorate his fortress with their heads.
MERLIN
So why are you heading there?
TRISTAN
I have my reasons.
MERLIN
Right.

I agree with him.
TRISTAN
What's wrong with your friend?
MERLIN
He's a simpleton, he can't help it.
TRISTAN
Look after him, do you?
MERLIN
Without me, he wouldn't last a day.
[Simpleton!Arthur nods. Tristan narrows his eyes at them suspiciously, then looks
back at his wagon.]
TRISTAN
Very well, I suppose you can be on your way.
[Tristan retrieves his knife from the tree.]
MERLIN
Could we not come with you? I mean, I--I would be grateful for the company, to be
honest.
[Arthur steps forward.]

I'm very annoying.
TRISTAN (scoffs)
I'm sorry.
MERLIN
Please?
TRISTAN
Don't push it, boy. You're lucky I let you go with your lives.
MERLIN
I could pay you.
[That catches their attention.]
MERLIN
With gold.
TRISTAN
Well, why didn't you say so before?
[Arthur smiles like an idiot. Merlin looks at him and simpleton!Arthur goes
serious.]
--
[21:56, EXT. WOODS, HUT - DAY]
[Agravaine finds Arthur's discarded clothes.]
AGRAVAINE
What kind of coward would deny who he is? Men, this way! Can't have got far!
--
[Merlin and Arthur travel with Tristan and Isolde.]
TRISTAN
We make camp here!
[Isolde smiles as Tristan helps her down from the wagon and he holds her in his
arms.]
ISOLDE
Why, thank you.
TRISTAN
My pleasure.
[Arthur sticks a leg out of the wagon and Merlin shoves it back in. Later, Merlin
helps them make camp. He opens a box and Isolde steps around the corner of the
wagon.]
ISOLDE
That doesn't concern you.
MERLIN
I'm sorry. It's just, I recognize that smell. That is frankincense isn't it?
TRISTAN
What if it is?
MERLIN
Must be worth a fortune.
TRISTAN
It must be.
[They give each other a long look.]
MERLIN
You're smugglers.
ISOLDE
We prefer to think of it as free trade.
[Tristan chuckles.]
MERLIN
It's forbidden. By edict of the king, if you're caught, you could be killed.
TRISTAN
Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the
halfwit king in Camelot.
[Tristan walks past simpleton!Arthur who is hugging a tree, tapping it with his
knuckles with an ear pressed against the trunk.]
MERLIN
You don't say.
[Merlin goes to collect Arthur.]
--
[Merlin and Arthur sit by their own campfire.]
MERLIN
More soup?

Yes, please.
[Merlin ladles some soup for Arthur.]

Thank you.
[Arthur lifts the bowl to his lips.]
MERLIN
A please and a thank you all the same time? That's amazing.

Is it?
MERLIN (nods)
Mm. Well, let's just say manners are not your strong point.

Really?
[Merlin nods.]

In what way?
MERLIN
Rude. Thoughtless. Insensitive. And that's when you're in a good mood.

Sorry to hear that.
MERLIN
I don't think you realise how hard I work for you. I know you're the king, but it
would be nice if you could do one small think for yourself as a, erm...gesture.
Mark of respect.

Sorry to have been a disappointment, Merlin. I'll try harder in future.
MERLIN
Oh, I look forward to that. On the other hand, why wait?
[Merlin drops his soup bowl on top of the one Arthur is holding.]
MERLIN
That pot will need rinsing out as well.
Of course.
MERLIN
And when you're done with that, the horses need a rubdown, too.

My pleasure.
[Merlin watches simpleton!Arthur as he gets up and takes the stewpot.]
MERLIN
Over there.
[Merlin points. Arthur walks over the bushes and falls over, crashing down with a
clatter. Merlin smiles and lies down.]
MERLIN
You all right?

Yeah.
[Arthur gets up and continues on.]
--
[Agravaine rides through the woods, the Southrons bearing torches behind him on
foot.]
--
[25:53, EXT. WOODS, CAMP - MORNING]
[Arthur walks through the camp while everyone's asleep. He walks up to Merlin and
gives him a few small kicks to wake him.]
ARTHUR (low)
You better have a damn good explanation for this, Merlin.
[Merlin stares at him.]
ARTHUR
Fine. Then I'll just carry on kicking you.
[Arthur kicks Merlin some more and Merlin scrambles to his feet.]
MERLIN
Arthur.
[Merlin looks into Arthur's face.]
MERLIN
You're back.
ARTHUR
What do you mean "I'm back"? You're talking gibberish.
MERLIN
Listen to me, please. Camelot is lost. You were injured in an attack, you passed
out. I had to get you out of there.
[Arthur is stunned as he remembers.]
ARTHUR
Where are we now?
MERLIN
We're heading north to a safe haven, to Ealdor. Hopefully the knights will meet us
there.
[Arthur looks around the camp.]
ARTHUR
Who are these people?
MERLIN
They're, er...smugglers.
ARTHUR
Smugglers?!
MERLIN
Shhh!
ARTHUR
All right, let's assume, for one moment, you know what you're doing. It doesn't
explain why I look like a village idiot.
MERLIN
It's the perfect disguise. No one would ever suspect you of being, you know...who
you are.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry, Merlin. I am not going around looking like this.
MERLIN
You have to. You got to keep in character.
ARTHUR
Character? What character?
TRISTAN
You.
TRISTAN
We leave as soon as the horses are watered. Explain it to the simpleton, would you?
[Arthur looks at Merlin and Merlin smiles sheepishly. Merlin carries the sword as
he and Arthur walk toward the wagon. Arthur takes the sword back and Tristan and
Isolde look up.]
TRISTAN
Simpleton.
MERLIN
He's talking to you.
ARTHUR
I don't answer to that name.
MERLIN
In character, remember?
[Tristan looks down at the sword.]
TRISTAN
Impressive piece.
ARTHUR (pirate)
Thank you, sir.
TRISTAN
May I?
[Arthur lets Tristan take the sword. He examines the blade.]
TRISTAN (scoffs)
Magnificent. The only place you find workmanship of this quality is the royal forge
of Camelot.
[Tristan puts the sword to Arthur's throat.]
TRISTAN
Tell me, how did you come by it?
MERLIN
I won it in a card game. Gave it to him as a present. Won't be parted from it.
Makes him feel safe.
[Tristan narrows his eyes suspiciously. Arthur nods stupidly and Tristan hands the
sword back to him.]
TRISTAN
I hope for your sake that's true.
[Arthur takes the sword like he doesn't know how to hold it.]
TRISTAN
I'd hate to think that I was riding with a knight of Camelot.
[Arthur hugs the sword to his chest.]
ARTHUR (pirate)
Aye.
[Isolde giggles.]
ISOLDE
Knight of Camelot? Look at him.
[Merlin chuckles. Arthur pretends not to know how to put the sword in his belt.]
TRISTAN
You're right. Their knights may be stupid, but they're not that stupid.
[Arthur puts on a big smiles and chuckles with the rest of them as Merlin tussles
his hair.]
MERLIN
Pack your things, simpleton!
[Arthur grabs Merlin's arm.]
ARTHUR (smiling)
Call me that again and I'll run you through.
MERLIN
Don't worry, sire, I'm sure you won't have to keep it up for too much longer.
ARTHUR
How long?!
[The man walking past them gets shot with an arrow. They turn and see Southrons
charging the camp. Arthur grabs Merlin to duck out of the way. An arrow lands in
the tree next to Arthur's head and they run to take cover behind the wagon with
Tristan and Isolde. Arthur takes charge.]
ARTHUR
Head for those trees, we'll cover you.
[Tristan and Isolde exchange a confused look.]
ARTHUR
Do you want to live or not?
[Tristan steps forward to question Arthur, but Isolde grabs his arm and they run
off.]
[Arthur and Merlin fire crossbows at the Southrons through the wagon. Merlin tosses
Arthur another bolt and reloads his own crossbow.]
MERLIN
Now what?
ARTHUR
Now it's our turn.
MERLIN
Who's going to cover us?
ARTHUR
Don't be a simpleton, Merlin.
[They take aim and hit another two Southrons, but more keep coming. Arthur grabs
the sword from the wagon and they run off. They take cover behind a fallen tree
with Tristan and Isolde. Agravaine directs the Southrons by the wagon.]
ISOLDE
They haven't found the cargo.
TRISTAN
They will. Besides, they weren't after the cargo. They were after you. Who the hell
are you?
ARTHUR
My name is Arthur Pendragon.
TRISTAN
The king of Camelot!
ARTHUR
At least I was.
TRISTAN
I've lost everything I've worked for for some good for nothing king!
ARTHUR
That's quite something coming from a smuggler.
TRISTAN
Well, I wouldn't have to be a smuggler if it wasn't for your damn taxes, would I?!
ARTHUR
Those taxes help protect the people of this land.
TRISTAN
My people are dead. You call that protection?
MERLIN
Excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but...
[Merlin directs their attention to the Southrons charging them from behind. Arthur
and Tristan charge the Southrons and fight side by side. Isolde fights more
Southrons. One elbows her in the head and slashes her sword arm, kicking her to the
ground. The Southron poises for the final blow, but crumples as Arthur stabs him in
the back. Tristan runs to Isolde and holds her. Arthur and Merlin watch
empathetically.]
TRISTAN (whisper)
Isolde. We had a deal. Partners for life, remember?
ISOLDE
When have I not kept my promises?
[Tristan kisses her forehead.]
ARTHUR
We need to keep moving. There'll be more coming soon.
TRISTAN
Then go. There's nothing stopping you.
[Arthur rolls his eyes.]
MERLIN
Come with us to Ealdor. You'll be safe there.
TRISTAN
I'm choosy about the company I keep.
ISOLDE
He saved my life, Tristan. Thank you.
TRISTAN
None of this would've happened if it wasn't for them.
[Isolde sighs at his stubbornness.]
ARTHUR
She's injured. She needs shelter and rest.
[Tristan sighs, looks at Arthur, then back at Isolde. Isolde nods.]
TRISTAN
Very well. But know this, Arthur Pendragon, I do this for her. You and your kind
bring nothing but misery to this land.
--
[Morgana arrives outside Elyan, Gwaine, and Gaius's cell with a few Southrons.]
GAIUS
Have you come to gloat, my lady?
MORGANA
Is that any way to treat an old friend? I'll forgive you. After all, you're not
looking your best.
SIR GWAINE
Can't you see he's starving? We all are.
MORGANA
Of course you are. You killed so many of my men. I'll have the kitchen prepare you
a feast.
[Gwaine steps forward, but Elyan grabs his arm and shakes his head. Gwaine steps up
to the gate more slowly, chains dragging as he walks. Morgana raises an eyebrow.]
SIR GWAINE
I think not of myself, but of Gaius. He can't survive long without food.
[Morgana smiles and steps close to the bars.]
MORGANA
Aw, Gwaine, so handsome, so selfless. Of course you shall have some supper...as
long as you're prepared to sing for it.
[Morgana smirks and steps away as the guards open the door and drag him out.]
--
[32:51, EXT. WOODS, BORDER STREAM - DAY]
ARTHUR
This marks the border between Camelot and Lot's kingdom.
MERLIN
Ealdor lies at the far side of that valley. Maybe half a day on foot.
ARTHUR
We'll rest here for the night. There's no way Agravaine could've tracked us through
those mountains.
MERLIN
I'll make a fire, we must keep Isolde warm.
[Tristan lets Isolde go as Merlin puts her arm around his neck and helps her to a
campsite. Arthur holds out a water flask to Tristan.]
ARTHUR
Here, you should drink up.
[Tristan walks on.]
TRISTAN
I'll get my own.
--
[Southrons shove Gwaine into the middle of a fight circle where Morgana stands. She
smiles at their rowdy enjoyment.]
MORGANA
Behold! A knight of Camelot, famed as the greatest knights in five kingdoms.
[Morgana grabs Gwaine's face.]
MORGANA
Let's see if that fame's deserved, shall we?
[Gwaine scoffs with a smile and glares at her as she walks to sit her throne. A
Southron brings out a couple of weapons.]
--
[33:57, EXT. WOODS, CAMPFIRE - NIGHT]
[Tristan and Isolde sleep in each other's arms, propped up against a tree trunk.
Merlin and Arthur sit by the fire.]
ARTHUR
You knew. You knew Agravaine was betraying me.
MERLIN
I couldn't be sure. But then, I did have my suspicions.
ARTHUR
I feel like such a fool. I put such trust in him. All this time I was blind to his
treachery as I was to Morgana's.
MERLIN
You were deceived, Arthur. That could happen to anyone.
ARTHUR
Yet it keeps happening to me. I cared about these people. I...don't understand.
What have I don't wrong? Why do they hate me?
MERLIN
No, they don't hate you. They just...crave your power for themselves.
ARTHUR
Perhaps. Would they still want that power if I was the king my people deserve?
Maybe Tristan's right--
MERLIN
Tristan was angry and...
[Merlin looks over at them sleeping.]
MERLIN
...afraid. He needed to blame someone, but it's not you that's to blame.
[Merlin looks at Tristan and shakes his head.]
ARTHUR
You seem very sure about all this.
MERLIN
All I know is that, for your many faults, you are honest and brave and truehearted,
and one day you will be the greatest king this land has ever known.
[Arthur smiles a little.]
ARTHUR
Well...good to know I have the support of my servant at least.
MERLIN
I'm not alone. Believe me.
--
[Gwaine fights one of the Southrons. Gwaine disarms one of the man's weapons.]
SIR GWAINE
That all you have? You promised a decent fight.
[The Southron pulls out another weapon from his belt and disarms Gwaine.]
SIR GWAINE
You're a very angry man, I can see that. Must be hard being so ugly. Children
crying, women screaming. Come on.
[Completely unarmed, Gwaine knocks the Southron to the ground. The Southron gets up
with one weapon left. Gwaine climbs on his back and punches him in the stomach. The
Southron rams Gwaine into a column, but Gwaine gets off, punches the Southron and
kicks him against the column. Gwaine picks up the mace and knocks him out with it
in the now silent council chamber. Morgana stands, clapping slowly.]
MORGANA
Congratulations, Sir Knight. And admirable display. You've earned your reward.
[She indicates to someone and they toss a half-loaf of bread at his feet.]
MORGANA
But you're going to half to do better if you want some more.
[The Southrons chuckle darkly and Helios motions for two more warriors to step
forward. The chanting begins again as Gwaine prepares for their attack.]
--
[37:36, EXT. EALDOR - DAY]
[Tristan supports Isolde and the four travellers enter the village. Hunith catches
sight of Merlin and runs to hug him, huge smiles on their faces.]
MERLIN
Mother.
HUNITH
Welcome home, Merlin.
--
[38:06, INT. HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Merlin checks on Isolde sleeping on the bed while Tristan and Arthur eat.]
MERLIN
Cleaned the wound. There's no sign of infection. So as long as she gets plenty of
rest, she'll be fine.
TRISTAN
Thank you, Merlin, for everything you've done for her.
[Merlin nods and leaves.]
ARTHUR
I'm sorry I brought this...misfortune upon you.
TRISTAN
Well, I may have lost my cargo, but I still have my beloved Isolde.
ARTHUR
Then you're richer than you know.
[Tristan considers Arthur and then looks at Isolde. Arthur watches them sadly.]
--
[Agravaine and the Southrons sneak through the woods around Ealdor.]
AGRAVAINE
Spread out. Ensure the village is surrounded. No one must escape.
--
[39:08, EXT. EALDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin walks with his mother.]
HUNITH
It's good to have you home, Merlin.
MERLIN
I'm so sorry it's been so long.
HUNITH
I understand how it is, your life in Camelot. I worry about you sometimes. The
dangers you must face.
MERLIN
Mother, I don't want you to worry.
HUNITH
I can't help it. It's what mothers do.
MERLIN
Well, we are safe here. All of us.
[Merlin looks at something.]
MERLIN
How's she been?
HUNITH
As well as can be expected, but, erm...a broken heart takes time to mend.
[They regard Gwen through a crack in the door as she stands there sadly. They
continue walking. Gwen steps forward.]
--
[39:44, INT. EALDOR, HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Gwen dressed Arthur's wounded ribs. He wakes and realises someone's there. He
lifts his head when he recognises her. She waits sadly for his response.]
ARTHUR (breathless)
Guinevere.
[Gwen smiles sadly.]
GWEN
Hello, Arthur.
[Arthur sits up on his elbows.]
ARTHUR
[Gwen shrugs her shoulders and shakes her head.]
GWEN
It's as good a place as any.
[Arthur stares at her.]
GWEN
I've missed you.
ARTHUR
And I you.
[Gwen smiles bitter sweetly. Arthur sits up and Gwen waits until he holds out arm
to hug her. She leans forward and they embrace each other tightly.]
--
[40:51, EXT. EALDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Hunith hear screams as they sit talking. Merlin stands and sees the
Southrons' torches surrounding the village.]
MERLIN
Agravaine. He's found us.
--
[41:08, INT. EALDOR, HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Merlin, Arthur, Tristan, Isolde, and Guinevere watch as Agravaine and the
Southrons harass the villagers. Arthur is dressed in chainmail and Gwen is wearing
furs.]
TRISTAN
Any suggestions?
MERLIN
'Round the back.
[Merlin waits for them to leave, then his eyes glow and he sets a cart rolling
toward Agravaine.]
MERLIN
Bæl on bryne!
[Merlin's eyes glow and inside the cart goes up in flames. Agravaine and the
Southrons dash out of the way just in time, but Agravaine looks up to see Arthur's
party escaping.]
AGRAVAINE
There! Get them!
--
[Southrons chase Arthur's party through the woods. Tristan supports Isolde as they
go.]
TO BE CONTINUED...
-----------------------------------------------
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December 18 2011, 01:30
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BBC Merlin: 4x13 The Sword in the Stone, Part 2
<<< EPISODE 4x12 │
KILGHARRAH
--
[Southrons chase Arthur's party through the woods. Tristan supports Isolde as they
go. Arthur's party approaches the mouth of cave tunnels.]
MERLIN
I’ll cover our tracks, you keep going!
[Merlin turns away from the others as they head into the caves.]
MERLIN (dragontongue)
Ω δρακον, *dragonspeak*
[Merlin sees the Southrons approaching and Kilgharrah isn't arriving, so he heads
for the caves. Agravaine hears the dragon's roar and looks up. Kilgharrah swoops
down on them.]
AGRAVAINE
Take cover!
[Kilgharrah flame roasts most of the Southrons as Agravaine tries to run.]
--
[02:23, INT. MOUNTAIN TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Merlin catches up to the others in the cave.]
ARTHUR
Did you lose them?
MERLIN
It's safe.
ARTHUR
You sure?
MERLIN
Do I look like an idiot?
ARTHUR
Yes.
MERLIN
Doesn't change, does it?
ARTHUR
Which way now?
[Merlin looks around uncertainly.]
ARTHUR
I thought you said you grew up in these tunnels.
MERLIN
I did. Just-- it could be that way.
ARTHUR
Or it could be that way.
MERLIN
Yes.
ARTHUR
That's very reassuring.
--
[Agravaine and a few of his men come out of hiding to look out over the field of
crispy Southrons. Kilgharrah roars again and comes back for another pass.]
AGRAVAINE
Run!
[Agravaine and the remaining Southrons run into the mountain tunnels, followed by a
stream of fire. They escape unscathed.]
--
[Arthur and Merlin lead their party through the caves.]
TRISTAN
So you know Arthur?
GWEN
I was a servant in Camelot.
TRISTAN
To Arthur?
GWEN
No.
TRISTAN
So why are you here?
GWEN
He's my king.
TRISTAN
I can't say I've detected many kingly qualities so far.
[Arthur is upset as he overhear this.]
GWEN
Well, maybe you don't know him.
--
[Agravaine and his men pursue Arthur's party. Agravaine hears something.]
AGRAVAINE
Shh!
[They stop to listen and hear some pebbles move.]
AGRAVAINE (mouths)
That way.
--
[Arthur's party stops and turns as they hear movement behind them.]
ARTHUR
I thought you said we'd lost them.
MERLIN
I thought I had.
TRISTAN
It won't take long for them to catch us.
MERLIN
I'll got back.
[Merlin heads back through the tunnel.]
ARTHUR
What are you gonna do?
MERLIN
Create a diversion.
[Arthur stops Merlin.]
ARTHUR
It's too risky.
MERLIN
I know these tunnels and Agravaine doesn't. You keep going.
[Merlin hands Arthur his torch.]
ARTHUR
Merlin...don't do anything stupid.
MERLIN
Me?
[Arthur looks after Merlin, hesitant to leave him behind, then follows the others.
Merlin sidles along the tunnel wall as he hears the Southrons approach. He takes a
breath and then steps around the corner to face them.]
MERLIN
OH, HELLO!
[Agravaine and his men run after Merlin. Merlin runs into a dead end.]
AGRAVAINE
Merlin. Merlin?
[Trapped, Merlin turns to face Agravaine.]
AGRAVAINE
Where's Arthur?
[Merlin shakes his head slightly.]
MERLIN
Be careful.
[Agravaine is confused.]
AGRAVAINE
What are you talking about? Where's Arthur?
[Merlin shifts his weight almost sadly, not really wanting to hurt them.]
AGRAVAINE
Tell me. Now. Or I'll have to kill you.
[Merlin shakes his head sadly.]
MERLIN
I don't think so.
[Agravaine steps toward Merlin. Merlin throws all of them back with a flash of his
eyes. He takes a few steps forward and Agravaine wakes, gasping. Agravaine looks at
Merlin and sits up. Merlin looks down, then raises his head nobly to look Agravaine
in the eyes.]
AGRAVAINE
You have magic.
MERLIN
I was born with it.
[Agravaine gets up, then something occurs to him...]
AGRAVAINE
So it's you. You're Emrys.
MERLIN
That is what the druids call me.
AGRAVAINE
And you've been at court all this time, eh? At Arthur's side. (chuckles) How you've
managed to deceive him. I am impressed, Merlin. Perhaps we're more alike than you
think.
[Agravaine holds a hand out to Merlin, but Merlin raises his hand to strike with
magic and Agravaine pauses, smile fading. Agravaine gestures submission and Merlin
lowers his hand. Agravaine whips out a knife with his other hand to attack Merlin,
but Merlin raises both hands and blasts Agravaine backwards with a flash of his
eyes. Agravaine goes still as he hits the ground, eyes open. He lies dead whether
from the spell, the fall, or his own knife stabbing him in the back as he landed on
it. Merlin takes deep breaths and steps forward to look down at the men he just
killed. He turns with a scowl and continues through the tunnels.]
--
[Arthur slows to a stop and turns around.]
TRISTAN
What are you doing?
ARTHUR
Shh!
[Arthur listens and they hear rocks moving. Arthur looks up.]
ARTHUR
Merlin.
TRISTAN
He knows the tunnels. He'll find his way.
ARTHUR
I'm going back.
[Arthur walks past Tristan, Gwen, and Isolde and Tristan watches in confusion.]
TRISTAN
For a servant?
GWEN
You're wrong about him.
--
[Arthur approaches a corner and prepares to attack the approaching figure.]
ARTHUR
Merlin!
[Arthur straightens up.]
ARTHUR
Where have you been?
MERLIN
Were you worried about me?
ARTHUR (lying)
No. I was making sure we weren't being followed.
MERLIN
You came back to look for me.
ARTHUR
All right, it's true. I came back because you’re the only friend I have and I
couldn’t bear to lose you.
MERLIN
Really?
[Arthur turns around and walks off...]
ARTHUR
Don't be stupid.
[Merlin smiles and follows.]
--
[08:04, EXT. MOUNTAIN - DAY]
[Arthur's party emerges on the other side of the mountain. Tristan supports Isolde,
and Arthur clutches his wounded ribs.]
TRISTAN
So, where now?
ARTHUR
To the plains beyond the mountains.
TRISTAN
You sure? That's Lot's kingdom. He's no friend of the Pendragons.
GWEN
Well, maybe we could find somewhere here. A house where we could rest.
TRISTAN
We're fugitives, a danger to anyone who harbours us.
MERLIN
He's right. We must travel back towards Camelot.
ARTHUR
No, we need to keep going.
MERLIN
If we hold up in the Forest of Essetir, we'll be safe at least for a while.
ARTHUR
No.
MERLIN
If anyone has survived this battle, that's where they'll be hiding.
TRISTAN
I know which I'd do. You're the king, Arthur. You're our leader...
ARTHUR
All right. Forest of Essetir it is.
[Tristan smirks and they walk down the mountain path.]
--
[Southron troops march into the square.]
--
[Gwaine is slumped in a corner, manacles on his wrists. Elyan tends to Gaius who is
lying on the bed, pale and weak.]
SIR ELYAN
Come on, Gaius, hold fast.
[Guards open the cell. One restrains Elyan while the other picks up Gwaine and
escorts him out.]
SIR GWAINE
Don't worry, at least we get to eat.
[Elyan grabs the bars as the Southron locks the cell door.]
--
[09:24, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL FIGHTING CHAMBER - DAY]
[Morgana unlocks Gwaine's manacles.]
MORGANA
So, you have another chance to sing for your supper. I thought I might make it a
little harder this time.
SIR GWAINE
Seems fair.
MORGANA
Oh, but you can't fight with your bare hands.
[Morgana hands Gwaine a wooden dagger.]
MORGANA
Never mind. You're a night of Camelot. You'll be fine.
[Morgana struts to her throne and the Southrons begin to cheer as a couple
mercenaries enter the circle to fight Gwaine.]
SIR GWAINE
What the hell.
[Gwaine sinks into a fighter's stance.]
--
[10:02, EXT. FOREST OF ESSETIR - DAY]
[Isolde sharpens her knife while Gwen and Merlin set up a campfire and Tristan and
Arthur collect more wood.]
TRISTAN
Well, well, well, look at you. First you go back to rescue your servant, now you're
getting your hands dirty. But then again, why shouldn't you? You're just like
everyone else. There's nothing special about you, is there?
ARTHUR
Well, maybe you're right. Maybe I don't deserve to be king.
TRISTAN
Well, that's all right, 'cause you're not. Not anymore.
[Tristan struts off while Arthur tries to cope with that fact. Gwen watches Arthur
sulk off into the woods and gets up to go talk to him. Arthur tosses the wood
aside.]
GWEN
Arthur?
[Arthur keeps walking and Gwen jogs up to him and touches his arm.]
GWEN
Arthur...
[Arthur stops and spins around.]
ARTHUR
Don't.
[Gwen pulls back.]
ARTHUR
What happened in Ealdor was a moment's weakness.
[Gwen flinches.]
ARTHUR
What you did to me... Everything I cherished between us, everything we had, it’s
gone. That’ll never change.
GWEN
I'm sorry.
[Gwen walks back to the campfire tearfully.]
--
[Gwaine stumbles into the cell and Morgana stands in the doorway with a half loaf
of bread.]
MORGANA
Enjoy your supper.
[Morgana tosses the bread into the cell.]
MORGANA
I fear it'll be your last.
[Morgana exits and the Southrons lock the cell door. Elyan gives some bread to
Gaius.]
SIR ELYAN
You need to eat.
GAIUS
Whether I eat or not, I'm not long for this world.
SIR ELYAN
Come on, Gaius.
GAIUS
I'm a physician, Elyan. I've spent my days watching the cycle of life. If there’s
one thing I’m not afraid of, it’s death. Don't waste your food. If Gwaine has to
fight again, he'll need all the strength he can get.
[Elyan leaves the bread with Gaius.]
--
[12:28, EXT. FOREST OF ESSETIR - NIGHT]
[Arthur lounges against a tree by the fire, arms crossed, brooding.]
MERLIN
Come on, I'll take watch.
[Merlin sits down against the tree. Arthur continues brooding.]
MERLIN
Arthur, what's the matter? Don't listen to Tristan, he doesn't know you.
ARTHUR
I trusted the wrong people.

They betrayed you. That wasn't your fault.
ARTHUR
No. I was a fool. I misjudged everyone...my uncle...Morgana. Every decision I've
made has been wrong.
MERLIN
You are being too hard on yourself.
ARTHUR
I should be more discerning, wise...a statesman, a king. Tristan's right, there's
nothing special about me. I'm just like everyone else.
MERLIN
You're not. You're a worthy king.
ARTHUR
I'm good with a sword. That's all.
MERLIN
Your people love you.
ARTHUR
Most of them are dead. Thanks to me.
MERLIN
No, most of them escaped. They'll be here in the forest, I'm sure of that.
ARTHUR
Well, if they are, they'll have to find themselves a new king.
[Arthur gets up and walks away.]
MERLIN
Arthur... Arthur!
--
[14:00, EXT. FOREST OF ESSETIR, CLEARING - NIGHT]
[Merlin runs through the forest.]
MERLIN
Ω δρακον, έάω μαλερός σοφόνους φθέγγομαι τείδε άναδικέω!
[The Great Dragon meets Merlin in a clearing. Kilgharrah smiles down on him.]
MERLIN
Well, thank you. You saved us all.
KILGHARRAH
The land of Albion and the future we have all fought for was in peril.
[Merlin sighs.]
KILGHARRAH
What is troubling you, young warlock?
MERLIN
It's Arthur. He's lost the will to fight. He feels he's failed his people; he
believes he no longer deserves to be king.
KILGHARRAH
The fate of Camelot rests in your hands, young warlock, for you and you alone can
restore the king's faith.
MERLIN
How?
KILGHARRAH
You must make him believe that he can be king once more.
[Merlin mulls that over.]

KILGHARRAH
I wish I could be of more help, Merlin.
MERLIN
No...I know how. The people who fled Camelot, do you know where they're hiding?
KILGHARRAH
I am a dragon. I can cover many leagues in the blink of an eye. They shouldn't be
too hard to find.
MERLIN
Then we have no time to lose.
--
[Merlin wakes Arthur.]
ARTHUR
What?
MERLIN
There's something I need to show you.
[Merlin walks off. Arthur grabs his sword and follows.]
ARTHUR
This had better be good because this really isn't the time for one of your
ridiculous games.
MERLIN
I was thinking about last night and how you were saying how you'd given up all
hope, how you were a poor leader and a shoddy king.
ARTHUR
"Shoddy"?
MERLIN
All right, "shabby."
ARTHUR
Thanks.
MERLIN
Well, it reminded me of a tale Gaius once told me.
ARTHUR
Merlin, I'm really not interested in your favourite bedtime stories.
MERLIN
For once in your life, just...listen.
[Arthur holds his hands up in defeat.]
MERLIN
Many years ago, before the birth of the five kingdoms, this land was in an endless
cycle of bloodshed and war, but one man was determined to end all that. He gathered
together the elders of each tribe and drew up plans for the lands to be divided.
Each would respect the others' boundaries, and drew it over the land as they saw
fit. That man was Camelot's first king, ancestor to all that followed, including
you, Arthur.
ARTHUR
Bruta.
MERLIN
You know the story.
ARTHUR
Yes, ever child in Camelot does. Can I go back to bed now?
MERLIN
No. Because there's another part of the story that you haven't heard.
ARTHUR
Really?
MERLIN
When Bruta was on his deathbed, he asked to be taken deep into the forest. There,
with the last of his strength, he thrust his sword into a rock. If his lineage was
ever questioned, this would form a test. Only a true king of Camelot could pull the
weapon free.
[Arthur stops.]
ARTHUR
Are you making this up?
MERLIN
Of course not.
[Merlin keeps walking and Arthur can't sort out if he's lying. Arthur follows.]
ARTHUR
All right. If it's true, why haven't I heard this story?
MERLIN
Well, history isn't really your strong point, is it?
ARTHUR
And where is this rock?
MERLIN
Oh, it was lost many years ago during the Great Purge, but...I've managed to find
it.
ARTHUR
I've never heard so much rubbish in my entire life.
MERLIN
Are you calling Gaius a liar?
ARTHUR
No, I'm calling you an idiot.
MERLIN
What's that then?
[Arthur follows Merlin's line of sight. Arthur's stunned by the sight of the sword
in the stone. They walk closer and Arthur us surprised again as a crowd of knights
and peasants appear out of the forest, Sir Leon and Sir Percival among them. Merlin
smiles. Arthur glances back at him and sees Merlin's proud expression.]
ARTHUR
What the hell are you playing at?
MERLIN
I'm proving that you are their leader and their king.
ARTHUR
That sword is stuck fast in solid stone.
MERLIN
And you're going to pull it out.
ARTHUR
Merlin, it's impossible.
MERLIN
Arthur, you're the true king of Camelot.
[Arthur glances back at the crowd of people surrounding the sword in the stone.]
ARTHUR
Do you want me to look like a fool?
MERLIN
No, I'm going to make you see that Tristan's wrong; you aren't just anyone, you are
special. You and you alone can draw out that sword.
[Arthur debates, then draws his sword and sticks it in the ground.]
ARTHUR
You better be right about this.
[Arthur approaches the stone slowly. He looks up at the crowd hesitantly, then
places both hands on the hilt. He tries to pull it up, but the sword doesn't
budge.]
MERLIN
You have to believe, Arthur.
[Arthur shakes with the effort, but the sword doesn't move. Merlin looks at the
crowd as Arthur struggles.]
MERLIN
You're destined to be Albion's greatest king.
[Arthur lets go of the sword.]
MERLIN
Nothing, not even this stone can stand in your way.
[Arthur looks at the sword and repositions himself. He places one hand on the sword
hilt and closes his eyes. Merlin watches him.]
MERLIN
Have faith.
[Arthur lifts his chin, willing himself to believe. Merlin's eyes glow and the
stone released the sword. Arthur pulls it out and stares at it, amazed. Arthur's
people watch in awe.]
SIR LEON
Long live the king!
ALL
Long live the king! Long live the king! Long live the king! Long live the king!
Long live the king!
--
[20:57, EXT/INT. KING'S PALACE, DRAWBRIDGE GATE/CORRIDOR - DAY]
HELIOS
When they arrived there, the ground itself was still on fire. They'd all been
slaughtered, every last one of them.
MORGANA
And Agravaine?
HELIOS
Dead.
MORGANA
There's only one person who could've done this; only one man who could command a
dragon. This is the work of Emrys.
--
[Arthur walks with Leon, Percival, Merlin, and Gwen.]
KING ARTHUR
What about the drawbridge?
SIR LEON
Well manned.
SIR PERCIVAL
As are the northern gates.
KING ARTHUR
The battlements on the south side?
SIR PERCIVAL
Arthur, even if we can get inside, she has an army.
KING ARTHUR
And we have, what? A few hundred?
SIR PERCIVAL
And they still outnumber us.
KING ARTHUR
Yeah, but only three to one.
[Leon chuckles.]
ISOLDE
And do you think they'll fight?
SIR LEON
Well, they'll fight for Arthur.
KING ARTHUR
It's not me they have to fight for. It's for Camelot.
SIR LEON
No, Arthur. It is you that people love, and you that they will lay down their lives
for. I know that I would ride into the mouth of hell for you.
SIR PERCIVAL
And I.
[Isolde looks at Tristan, who is surprised.]
MERLIN
And I.
[Tristan is won over by the loyalty of Arthur's men. Arthur draws Excalibur.]
KING ARTHUR
Into the mouth of hell it is.
[They follow Arthur and Tristan watches Arthur in admiration.]
--
[Isolde tends to her wounded arm. Gwen passes her, carrying some blankets. Gwen
sees Tristan give Isolde a bouquet of flowers.]
ISOLDE
What's this for?
[Tristan shrugs "Just because" and Isolde catches Gwen's forlorn expression. Gwen
watches Arthur sadly as Isolde approaches her.]
ISOLDE
Never give up hope. Love is stronger than anything.
[Gwen scoffs with a smile.]
ISOLDE
Believe me.
[Gwen smiles sadly at her kindness and glances back at Arthur. Merlin jogs up to
Arthur.]
MERLIN
You all right?
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
MERLIN
Do you think there are too many of them?
KING ARTHUR
Southrons are men like you and me. Men we can fight. But Morgana...
KING ARTHUR
Her power is so great and we've got nothing to answer it with.
MERLIN
I never finished Gaius's story.
KING ARTHUR
Not now, Merlin, please.
MERLIN
Will you just listen?
[Merlin puts his hands on his hips and Arthur lowers his head in acquiescence.]
MERLIN
When the sword was thrust into the stone, the ancient king foretold that one day it
would be freed again at a time when Camelot needed it most. The man who freed it
would unite the land of Albion and rule over the greatest kingdom the world has
ever known. That man is you, Arthur.
[Arthur's brow furrows and Merlin smiles.]
KING ARTHUR
You're making this up.
MERLIN
Why would I do that? Your head's already as big as your waist. I believe it,
though. And I believe in you. I always have.
[Arthur looks at Excalibur and considers what Merlin said.]
--
[Merlin plots by a campfire. A light bulb goes on and he smiles and scrambles to
his feet.]
--
[24:17, EXT. CAMELOT - NIGHT]
[Merlin hides as Southrons patrol outside the city. He crosses over to a tunnel
grate and raises a hand to it.]
MERLIN
Tospringe.
[The lock bursts and the gate swings open.]
--
MERLIN
... min freondum ond min feondum.
[There's a flash of light and Old Merlin walks down the corridor.]
MORGANA
You must send emissaries to Lot's kingdom. I'll suffer a war before Arthur's
captured.
[Morgana turns a corner stops in her tracks as she catches a glimpse of Old Merlin
before he runs off.]
MORGANA
It's him! It's Emrys, he's here!
HELIOS
Guards!
[Helios and the Southrons pursue Old Merlin while Morgana stands there terrified.
The warning bell sounds as Old Merlin sneaks around the palace. A guard steps out
of an alcove behind Old Merlin and he takes out the guard with a flick of his hand
without even turning to look.]
--
[25:02, INT. KING'S PALACE, MORGANA'S (ARTHUR'S) CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Old Merlin enchants an effigy.]
OLD MERLIN
Ontende eallne þæs drycræftes hire awæge!
[The poppet's head bursts into flames and Old Merlin smiles and laughs as the spell
whispers magic.]
--
[Old Merlin unbuckles the belt of the Southron he knocked out.]
--
[25:27, INT. KING'S PALACE,WROUGHT IRON STAIRWAY - NIGHT]
[Helios and his men run down toward the dungeons as another hooded Southron figure
walks up the stairs. It's Merlin back to his young self.]
--
[25:35, INT. KING'S PALACE, MORGANA'S (ARTHUR'S) CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Helios and Morgana enter her chambers.]
HELIOS
..searched everywhere. He fled Morgana; he trembled at the sight of you.
MORGANA (panicked)
Then why was he here? Why does he choose to taunt me like this?!
HELIOS
We must hold our nerve. Maybe you should get some sleep.
[Morgana nods and walks towards the bed.]
MORGANA
Make sure there are guards on the door.
[Helios nods and exits. Still unsettled, Morgana lies down. She relaxes and falls
asleep, Merlin's effigy whispering magic as it hangs under the bed.]
--
[Merlin stares off into space. Arthur snaps his fingers in front of Merlin's face.]
KING ARTHUR
Wakey, wakey. You look like you've been up half the night.
MERLIN
I was. Couldn't sleep.
KING ARTHUR
I thought you said you had faith in me?
MERLIN
Whatever gave you that idea?
[Arthur shrugs with a smile. Later, Arthur gives orders to Leon and Percival, then
sees Tristan and Isolde trying to catch his eye. Arthur approaches them.]
KING ARTHUR
This is where we say goodbye.
TRISTAN
Arthur, all my life I've shied away from other people's wars, and despised the
power and wealth that kings buy with the lives of men, but you've shown yourself to
be different.
ISOLDE
You've shown us that you fight for what is right and fair, and for that reason, we
would like to fight at your side.
[Arthur is speechless in surprise.]
KING ARTHUR
I'd be honoured to have you at my side.
[Isolde nods.]
KING ARTHUR
We'll stand together as equals.
--
[Arthur gazes at Excalibur as Gwen approaches from behind.]
GWEN
Arthur.
[Arthur turns around.]
GWEN
If anything happens to us, I want you to know...
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere--
GWEN
I understand why you can't forgive me. But I never once stopped loving you. Never
once.
[Gwen walks on and Arthur considers her words.]
--
[28:06, EXT. FOREST/CAMELOT - DAY]
[The knights of Camelot arm themselves. Arthur stands at their front. He lifts
Excalibur and swings it forward as he steps forward, signalling them to move out.
Red capes file towards the castle walls. Sir Leon leads one group, they take out
the sentries on the wall with crossbows and head in. Sir Percival, Tristan, and
Isolde take out another set of guards on another gate and wave in more knights.
Arthur fights another set of Southrons and Merlin and Gwen make sure they're dead
after they roll down the hill.]
--
[29:35, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/COURTYARD CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Sir Percival splits from Tristan and Isolde.]
--
[29:42, INT. KING'S PALACE - DAY]
[Warning bells sound as Sir Leon leads knights through the palace. Arthur charges
through the palace tunnels while Leon's party charges up the Griffin staircase.
Arthur takes out a guard in the Phoenix corridor, then holds his wounded ribs as he
continues on.]
--
[30:01, INT. KING'S PALACE, MORGANA'S (ARTHUR'S) CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Helios bursts into Morgana's chambers and she gets out of bed.]
HELIOS
It seems we have company.
MORGANA
Emrys?
HELIOS
Arthur.
[Morgana relaxes and smiles.]
MORGANA
My dear brother... we must welcome him home.
[Helios smirks.]
HELIOS
Shall we?
[Morgana smirks and they exit. The effigy continues to whisper magic from under
Morgana's bed.]
--
[Tristan and Isolde hide behind columns. They jump out and attack some Southrons
together.]
--
[Morgana and Helios wait in the council chamber while the mercenaries file out into
the corridors.]
HELIOS
It is as we expected; he is making his way here. He should be with us soon.
MORGANA
And we'll be waiting.
--
[30:47, INT. KING'S PALACE, DUGEONS/CORRIDORS - DAY]
[Sir Percival's party fights their way through the dungeons. Sir Leon leads another
party, Arthur makes his way through the palace on his own. Gwaine and Elyan go to
the bars as they hear the commotion from their cell. Sir Percival arrives.]
SIR GWAINE
Come on, boys. What's taking you so long?
[Sir Leon tosses Percival the keys and he opens the cell. Percival and Elyan grasp
arms.]
SIR PERCIVAL
You all right?
SIR ELYAN
I've been locked up with Gwaine for a week.
[Leon supports Gwaine out of the cell while Percival goes to Gaius, who's lying
weakly on the bed.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Gaius. Come on.
[Percival and Elyan help Gaius up.]
--
[31:44, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL ROOM CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Arthur rounds the corner with Tristan, Isolde, Merlin, and Gwen to find five
Southrons standing guard.]
KING ARTHUR
One each. Pick your man. On me!
[Arthur charges the front man, and strikes him. The mercenaries stumbles towards
Gwen and she knocks him out with her sword.]
--
[Morgana and Helios wait by the throne, listening to the fighting outside.]
MORGANA
I'm going to enjoy this.
--
[32:05, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL ROOM CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Arthur's party takes out the rest of the guards.]
ISOLDE
Whatever happened to the idea of finding a bit of land and settling down?
[Arthur walks over toward Merlin and looks at Excalibur.]

KING ARTHUR
You know, this thing's not bad.
MERLIN
Thought you might like it.
[They prepare to enter the council chamber.]
KING ARTHUR
Ready?
ALL
[They charge into the council chamber, but stop short when they find only Morgana
lounging on the throne, Helios standing it.]
MORGANA
Welcome, dear brother. It's been far too long.
[Morgana gets up and walks toward him.]
MORGANA
I apologise if you had a difficult reception. It's hard to know who to trust these
days.
[Morgana stops in the middle and Arthur approaches her slowly. He raises Excalibur
with an open hand to show he's not attacking her, and she watches his warily until
he places the sword in his belt. He meets her in the middle.]

What happened to you Morgana?
[Morgana looks him in the eye almost regretfully, the hurt plain on both their
faces and in their voices.]

I thought we were friends
MORGANA (softly)
As did I.
[Morgana's voice hardens.]
MORGAN
But alas, we were both wrong.
KING ARTHUR
You can't blame me for my father's sins.
MORGANA
It's a little late for that. You’ve made it perfectly clear how you feel about me
and my kind. You're not as different from Uther as you'd like to think.
KING ARTHUR
Nor are you.
[Morgana becomes angry and backs away.]

MORGANA
I’m going to enjoy killing you, Arthur Pendragon. Not even Emrys can save you now.
[Arthur draws Excalibur. Morgana smirks.]
MORGANA
Your blades cannot stop me.
[Merlin braces himself.]
MORGANA
Hleap on bæc.
[Nothing happens except the sound of the effigy's whispers. Morgana is confused and
Arthur watches her reaction, still waiting for her attack. Morgana tries the spell
again, raising her hand for strength.]
MORGANA (scared)
Hleap on bæc!
[Merlin seems to be absorbing Morgana's magic with the effigy's whispers. Both
Morgana and Arthur realise that her magic's not working.]
KING ARTHUR
Not so powerful now, my lady.
[Helios pulls Morgana behind him as she panics. Morgana runs off.]
KING ARTHUR
After her!
[Gwen and Merlin chase after Morgana. Southrons enter the council chamber from
behind, fended off by Tristan and Isolde, while Arthur takes on Helios. Arthur
clutches his wounded ribs while they fight.]
--
[34:35, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDORS - DAY]
[Morgana takes out some knights of Camelot with a sword as she makes her way
through the corridors. Merlin follows. A knight of Camelot strikes Morgana from
behind as he jumps out from behind a column. She takes him out, but not without
sustaining a deadly wound in her side first.]
--
[Arthur struggles to fight Helios with his wounds. Helios knocks him down and
disarms Arthur. Helios raises his sword for the final blow, but Isolde stabs him in
the back. Helios sweeps around and slices Isolde as he falls down dead. Arthur
realises what happened as Isolde turns to Tristan with a tragic look on her face.
She drops her sword and falls to her knees. Arthur and Tristan go to help her.]
--
[36:09, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDORS - DAY]
[Gwen turns a corner cautiously, still in pursuit of Morgana. Morgana rounds the
corner at the other end and Gwen crouches into a fighting stance. Morgana
approaches and they fight.]
GWEN
What did I do to make you hate me so much?
MORGANA
It's not what you did, it's what you're destined to do! I'm sorry, Gwen, but I can
never let that happen!
[Morgana disarms Gwen. She steps forward to kill Gwen, but she's blown backward.
Part of the ceiling collapses with the blast. The glow in Merlin's eyes dies out.
Merlin approaches Gwen.]
MERLIN
You all right?
GWEN
Yes.
[Merlin steps forward to find Morgana in the rubble smoke.]
GWEN
What happened?
[The smoke clears and Morgana is gone.]
MERLIN
I don't know.
[Gwen and Merlin return to the council chamber.]
--
[Tristan holds Isolde in his arms as she dies.]
ISOLDE
I'm sorry.
TRISTAN
Shhh.
[Gwen and Merlin enter.]
ISOLDE
Our dreams...
TRISTAN
Isolde, don't.
[Arthur leans against a column, eyes bloodshot as he watches them.]
ISOLDE
I wish...
TRISTAN
I wish, too.
ISOLDE
Hold me.
[Tristan puts an arm around her shoulders and she dies. He cradles her face in his
hand and kisses her, then hold her body as he cries. Arthur swallows hard and looks
up at Gwen. She looks up and they hold each other's gaze.]
--
[Gwen sets a fallen chair upright in Arthur's chambers, which seems to have been
trashed during the attack. Arthur enters.]
GWEN
It will take some time.
KING ARTHUR
Well, Merlin can take care of it.
[Arthur smiles and Gwen smiles back. Her smile fades as she steps forward.]
GWEN
If you want me to go, to return to Ealdor...
KING ARTHUR
I want you to stay.
[Gwen waits uncertainly as Arthur steps forward.]
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere...
GWEN
You don't have to say anything.
KING ARTHUR
Whatever's happened between us...
GWEN
Please, Arthur, I can't forgive myself.
KING ARTHUR
I don't care.
[Arthur steps up in front of her and Gwen waits.]
KING ARTHUR
I just don’t ever want to lose you.
[Gwen smiles a little. Arthur considers her for a moment and then takes her hands.
She waits hopefully.]
KING ARTHUR
Will you marry me?
[Gwen smiles.]
GWEN
Yes.
[Arthur begins to smile.]
GWEN
Yes, with all my heart.
[Arthur and Guinevere step into each other's arms and kiss passionately.]
--
[INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[The doors open to reveal Guinevere dressed in a rich, purple and gold gown,
walking down the aisle between the knights and courtiers of Camelot. Guinevere
kneels on the dais before Arthur. Arthur smiles down at her. A man brings the
queen's crown to Arthur on a pillow and he takes it. Elyan, Gaius, and Merlin stand
in the front row. Merlin is dressed in richer clothes. Gwaine and Leon stand behind
them.]
KING ARTHUR
By the sacred laws vested in me, I crown you...Guinevere...Queen of Camelot.
[Arthur crowns her and she smiles up at him. Arthur takes her hands, her engagement
ring on her first finger, and she steps up on the dais. They kiss wholeheartedly
and Guinevere smiles as they part. Arthur holds her hand and turns them to face
their subjects.]
KING ARTHUR
Long live the queen!
ALL
Long live the queen! Long live the queen! Long live the queen! Long live the queen!
Long live the queen!
--
[EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Morgana stumbles through the forest, clutching her wounded side. She falls and
goes unconscious. Wings sweep overhead and Aithusa lands next to her. Aithusa
breathes healing magic on her and she wakes. She looks at the little white dragon
in wonder as Aithusa watches her and then flies away.]
Merlin Will Return
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lika_mikala wrote in scriptline

November 30 2010, 22:54

│ EPISODE 1x02 >>>

[00:00, EXT. MAIN ROAD – DAY]

[Uther gives the signal and the man is beheaded.]

[Mary is whisked away in a whirl of wind and smoke.]

[Merlin wanders inside.]

[Merlin pulls off his backpack.]

[Gregory draws his sword.]

[Mary stabs the effigy, killing Lady Helen.]

[Mary turns into Lady Helen.]

[Merlin gets a mop to clear it up.]

[Gaius places a small sac and bottle on the table.]

[Sir Olwin finishes drinking it.]

[Arthur's gang laughs the background.]

[Arthur throws a dagger at the target.]

[Gwen shakes a curtain out an upper window.]

[Arthur throws another dagger.]

[Merlin holds out his hand.]

[Merlin stops walking.]

[Gwen cringes in surprise.]

[Arthur takes Merlin out at the knees.]

MARY (LADY HELEN)

[Uther kisses her hands.]

MARY (LADY HELEN)

[Merlin moves towards the floor and inspects it]

[The cell door opens and Gaius steps in.]

[Gaius gives him a disapproving look for being so excited.]

[The children leave and Gwen approaches.]

[Gwen is confused for a moment, then laughs.]

[Children approach with more rotten fruit.]

[Gwen leaves as they start pelting him.]

MARY (LADY HELEN)

[Merlin keeps walking.]

[Merlin turns to face Arthur.]

[Merlin takes off his jacket and Arthur laughs.]

[Merlin removes his shirt, revealing bruises.]

[Gaius tends to Merlin's wounds.]

[Gaius looks Merlin in the eye.]

[Gaius pours potion into a tiny cup.]

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

[She smiles at him and Uther smiles back.]

MARY (LADY HELEN)

MARY (LADY HELEN)

[Merlin looks around for the owner of the voice.]

[The Great Dragon flies to land in front of Merlin.]

[The dragon flies off.]

[Gaius tosses some more clothes at Merlin.]

[Merlin places the gown on the screen.]

MERLIN (high pitched) (shakes head)

[Merlin tries to figure a way out of his situation.]

MERLIN (high pitched) (shakes head)

MERLIN (high pitched)

[Merlin peeks through the neck of the cloak.]

[Merlin puts the cloak down and starts to leave.]