The Eye of the Phoenix
'I'll get the dinner ready,' Hunith said.
'I'll help,' Gwen says.
The familiar water scene appeared with Merlin standing in the background. Kilgarrah spoke his familiar statement introducing them to the latest story. The group watching wondered what would happen next/
'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,' Kilgarrah intoned once again.
Candles come into view. A topless Arthur is in the Antechamber to the Throne room where washes his face. Merlin then puts a white ceremonial garb on Arthur who is wearing a pensive expression.
Arthur enters the Throne Room and kneels in front of the Throne. Gwen comes up behind Merlin and the two of them watch Arthur from the antechamber. They whisper to each other.
'What's he actually doing?' whispered Gwen.
'Thinking,' whispered Merlin.
'About?' asked Gwen.
'You,' Merlin replied.
'Merlin,' hissed Arthur.
Gwen draws away from the door so that she can hit her friend. In response Merlin to moves away from the door where they are spying from the slightly open door. Luckikly Arthur appears not to have noticed.
'Shh,' Merlin hisses closeing the door. 'He has to decide upon a quest.'
'Crouching on his knees all night's going to help?' Gwen asked.
'Yes. He has to transcend his body so that the quest is revealed to him in a vision,' Merlin replied.
'It sounds like magic,' Elyan said quietly.
'It is,' agreed Gaius. 'Or at least it was. It's one of the few traditions based on magic that Uther didn't get rid of for whatever reason. Or maybe he never knew it was at least based on magical principles,' Gaius mused.
'And you're going to stay here and watch him?' asked Gwen.
'Gwen, this is one of the most important days in a prince's life,' Merlin replied sternly.
'And you fell asleep,' Arthur said.
'Of course, he did,' said an amused sounding Gaius.
'Oh,' Gwen said quietly.
The image shifts to the next day Merlin snores on the floor where Merlin is asleep on the antechamber floor. He wakes when Uther and the council descend the steps and enter the throne room. Uther touches Arthur's shoulder.
'It is time. What is the quest you have chosen?' Uther questions his son.
'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 replies.
'And of course he chooses the hardest quest,' Merlin shook his head.
'Merlin, could you come in and help us with the plates,' called Hunith.
'Coming mother,' Merlin called back.
'You do understand that if you are to prove yourself worthy of the throne, you must complete this task alone and unaided,' Uther said seriously.
Arthur snorted, 'you two made that a little difficult.'
'Merlin saved your life, Arthur, you'll understand soon,' Gaius defended his young ward.
'I do,' Arthur said resolutely.
In the physician's chambers Merlin stuffs his face with bread without any manners. It looked like Merlin hadn't eaten in a while or was nervous. Opposite him Gaius watched him eat without eating anything himself.
'You'll get hiccups,' Gaius quietly reprimanded the boy.
'Who was the Fisher King?' asked Merlin.
'He was a sorcerer who lived many hundreds of years ago,' Gaius explained.
'And?' Merlin pressed.
'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,' Gaius explained.
'How does that work?' asked Leon.
'Nobody's sure,' admitted Gaius. 'The best theory is that he obtained immortality by tying his life force with the life force of the land. Only when he was injured so was his land but neither could die.'
'His mighty kingdom was reduced to a wasteland, and it has remained that way to this very day,' Gaius explained.
'I don't understand. Why is Uther so worried?' asked Merlin eating some olives.
'Because magic is involved,' suggested Elyan.
'Some believe the Fisher King's still alive, kept from death by his magic,' Gaius continued.
Merlin swallows, 'do you?' asked Merlin.
Gaius shrugged, '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,' Gaius warned.
In Arthur's chambers Merlin makes Arthur's bed while Arthur studies maps at his desk. Merlin hiccoughs causing Arthur to look up at his manservant. The hiccoughs likely coming from eating too fast.
'I did warn him,' sighed Gaius.
'Since when does Merlin listen to anything,' snorted Arthur.
'I ate too quickly,' Merlin hiccoughed.
'Merlin...' Arthur said warningly.
'I can't help it,' Merlin defended.
'I need to concentrate,' Arthur said.
Merlin nods obviously trying not to hiccough by holding his breath. Merlin continues making the bed as Arthur studies his maps. But Merlin ends up failing as another hiccough is released.
'I am trying to prepare for one of the most important moments in my life,' Arthur said.
'All these maps...,' Merlin muffles another hiccough, 'none of them are the same.'
'It's very rare that a servant can read and write,' Leon said.
'I taught Hunith and I can only presume she taught Merlin as I never needed to teach him,' Gaius said quietly.
'Well done, Merlin. Do you know why?' Arthur asked sarcastically.
'No,' Merlin admitted.
'Because hardly anyone's ever been there,' Arthur snapped.
'Couldn't you have chosen something a bit easier?' asked Merlin.
'Does he know Arthur?' snorted Leon.
'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,' Arthur said cuttingly.
'But the Perilous Lands are...perilous. Maybe I should come with you,' Merlin said.
'He did anyway,' murmured Arthur.
'Of course, he did,' Gaius said quietly. 'Merlin would do anything to protect you – any of you!'
'But especially you, princess,' grinned Gwaine.
At that point Merlin walked in carrying a dish of roast potatoes and carrots in onehand a stack of plates in the other which had four glasses balanced precariously on the top. Gwen followed with a familiar smile on her face which made Arthur's heart soar; carrying a large cooked chicken with a sharp knife to one side. Hunith came after her son and Gwen carrying a clear jug like object full of what milk in one hand and a tray of glasses in the other.
'Is that chicken?' grinned Gwaine.
'Help yourself,' smiled Hunith.
'What for?' asked Arthur.
'To...help out,' Merlin replied.
'Good thing I was there,' Merlin said. 'You couldn't have survived without my magic.'
'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,' Arthur snapped.
Arthur turns over another map. Merlin begins to exit the prince's chambers but hiccoughs one more time. Much to the annoyance of Arthur if his annoyed huff was anything to go by.
Meanwhile in the lower town Gwen and Morgana shop in the market. Gwen is trying on an orange piece of cloth as a headdress smiling with Morgana. Morgana is looking at a purple piece of satin cloth when an old woman grabs Morgana's arm causing Morgana to rear around at the invasion of her personal space.
'Please, please, just spare me a few minutes of your time, Sister,' the old woman says.
'Morgause,' groaned Arthur after swallowing the milk he had been drinking.
'They did something didn't they,' sighed Gwen sadly.
'Unfortunately,' Gaius said grimly.
Morgana eyes light up and a small but genuine smile appears on her face as she realises it's Morgause. Morgana places her hand on Morgause's which is grasped around the healing bracelet Morgana always wears. Morgause then nods and goes with her.
'My Lady?!' Gwen asked in surprise.
'It's alright, Gwen. I won't be a moment,' Morgana promises.
'We must be quick, Sister. This enchantment will not hold for long. Tell me, what has Arthur chosen as his quest?' questions Morgause.
'They're using the quest,' Gwen said quietly.
'Yeah,' Merlin agreed.
'It wouldn't be a surprise if Arthur died on the quest,' Gaius said grimly.
'He sets out tomorrow for the Perilous Lands,' Morgana said quietly.
'How perfect,' Morgause says pulling out the Eye of the Phoenix bracelet.
'That's the bracelet that Morgana gave me,' Arthur said quietly.
'Indeed,' Gaius replied grimly.
'What is it?' asked Gwen nervously.
'The Eye of the Phoenix,' Merlin replied grimly.
'I take it that's bad,' Gwen said quietly.
'It's bad,' Gaius said grim.
'What does it do?' asked Gwen worried about Arthur.
'Drains the one bound to it of his or her energy,' Gaius explained quietly.
'Wait that's why I was so exhausted,' Arthur said.
'Yes,' said Merlin grimly.
'And why Merlin had to go after you,' Gaius said. 'You would have lasted days at most with that thing on you.'
'And you were so angry at us for turning up,' Merlin muttered.
'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 instructs.
Morgause passes behind Gwen as she walks back down the street. Gwen sees Morgause's true reflection in a mirror. Gwen gasps and spins around but only sees the old woman. Morgana returns to the stall.
'You knew,' Arthur said.
'I'm sorry, Arthur,' Gwen said quietly.
'Did everyone know before I knew?' demanded Arthur.
'Well I didn't,' Leon said quietly.
'I think it was only Gaius, Merlin and I who knew,' Gwen said quietly.
'Well that's okay then,' Arthur said furiously. 'Any more secrets your hiding from me!?' he demanded.
'My whole life's a secret,' shot back Merlin mouth full of food. 'Of course there's more!'
'My Lady! Are you alright?' Gwen asked worriedly.
'Why wouldn't I be?' Gwen asked.
'I thought Morgause had done something to her,' Gwen said softly.
'I...I thought...' Gwen trailed off.
'That poor woman didn't have a penny to feed her family. I felt duty bound to help her, Gwen,' Morgana said kindly.
'The sad thing is that's exactly the kind of thing that the old Morgana would have done,' Arthur said sadly.
'I know,' Gwen said sadly. 'I was her friend and now…' Gwen trailed off.
Gwen waits for Arthur outside his chambers. Arthur exits his chambers to find Gwen waiting for him. The two of them draw close to one another. Gwen appears worried about Arthur.
'I know you have to go, but...' Gwen trails off.
'I'll be careful,' Arthur promised.
Gwen smiles and then sighs, 'for me.'
Arthur nods his face full of love for the serving girl. Gwen nods back still looking worried but slightly relieved. Arthur then leans in and kisses Gwen chastely and then walks away from her as Gwen watches Arthur leave with a shocked but pleased expression on her face.
In the Main Squared Arthur is strides down the steps where Arthur's horse is prepared. Arthur bows to Uther and Morgana who are on the steps where Morgana is in arms with her father. Arthur mounts his horse that Merlin has prepared for Arthur as Uther and Morgana watch.
'I thought she gave you the bracelet?' asked Gwaine.
'She did,' Arthur replied.
'For whatever reason this thing does not show us everything,' Gaius said quietly.
Morgana looks at Uther who is staring at his son without saying anything, 'you look troubled, Sire,' Morgana said quietly.
'He is sole heir to the throne, Morgana,' Uther replied.
'It is not a weakness to admit to caring for your children,' Hunith said quietly savouring her chicken as in Ealdor meat was a luxury that they didn't have very often. 'It would cause a lot less problems if you were able to admit to caring for Morgana especially.'
Morgana does not seem happy about this comment, 'don't worry,' Morgana said forcing a smile. 'I'm certain a Pendragon will rule over Camelot for a long time to come,' Morgana assured her father.
'Even if Morgana did become queen wouldn't the Pendragon name only exist for her lifetime?' asked Percival. 'Or until she got married.'
'Unless she delved into the Blacker aspects of magic,' Merlin said grimly.
'Hasn't she already done that?' asked Arthur bitterly.
'Yes,' agreed Merlin, 'but there's using magic for evil purposes and then there's black magic.' '
To rip up the natural order to obtain immortality is the worst form of magic there is!' Gaius tried to explain.
Uther smiles and returned his gaze to his son. Morgana smiled but then glared hatefully at Uther. Arthur and Merlin nod to each other. Merlin's gaze is magically drawn to the bracelet on his wrist where Merlin suddenly wear's an unhappy look on his face.
'You sensed it?' asked Arthur.
'Of course, he did,' snorted Gwaine.
'It took us time to find out exactly what it was,' Gaius admitted.
'Beautiful, isn't it? It was a gift from Morgana,' Arthur said calmly causing Merlin to look up sharply at the prince and watches as Arthur rides off.
'That's not going to ease Merlin's worry,' Percival said.
'But at least I knew so I can do something about it,' Merlin said quietly.
In the physician's chambers Merlin pulls down a heavy tome and licks his finger so that he can more easily turn over the page. Gaius stands behind Merlin with another book in his hands. Merlin flips through the next page.
'You sure it wasn't a jewel?' Gaius asked showing Merlin the page of his book.
'No, brighter than that,' Merlin replies glancing at the page.
'And you think it was enchanted?' asked Gaius.
'There was magic there, I could feel it,' Merlin replied turning the page of his book.
'You sure?' asked Gaius flipping another page.
'One of these days people are going to stop doubting me,' sighed Merlin.
Merlin nods 'and if it came from Morgana, it can only mean one thing: Arthur's in danger,' Merlin said flipping open another page.
Arthur is riding through the woods. There is the sound of birds in the threes. Arthur pulls on the reigns of the horse and stops in the woods. The view of the forest on the mountain is scenic. Arthur pulls out a map.
That night Merlin and Gaius are still in the physician's chambers looking through the books. Gaius is at the table pacing slightly. Merlin, meanwhile, is staring up at the bookshelf.
'I'm not sure I know where else to look, Merlin,' Gaius said quietly.
'You ran out of books,' Percival frowned.
'We were looking in the wrong place,' explained Merlin. 'We were looking for a stone or a jewel.'
'Not the eye of the phoenix,' understood Arthur.
'There has to be something,' Merlin said desperately.
'We've examined every stone imaginable. Unless...' Gaius trailed off as Merlin turns his head to the side as Gaius pulls out another book from below where Merlin was standing, 'Merlin?' Gaius asks holding up the book at a page with a diagram of the bracelet Arthur is wearing.
'Gaius, that's it!' Merlin exclaimed with a grin.
'Then it's not a stone, Merlin. It's an Eye of the Phoenix,' Gaius said grimly.
'Phoenix?' asked Merlin.
'Surely you've heard of phoenixes,' Arthur said. 'We've got a statue of one in our castle!'
'Some call it the Firebird. Its eye burns with a fire that consumes the life force of anybody it comes in contact with,' Gaius explained.
'That's not good,' Gwaine said.
'No it's not,' agreed Merlin.
'Arthur,' exclaimed Merlin.
'The Eye will draw energy from him. If it's worn for too long, Arthur will die,' warned Gaius.
'I have to go after him,' Merlin said.
'This is not a task to be undertaken lightly, Merlin. You'll need help,' Gaius said.
'And so enters the handsomest, most bravest and noble of all the Knights,' grinned Gwaine.
'Oh you mean me,' Arthur smirked.
Merlin is on a black horse which he uses to ride out of the gates of Camelot.
'Wonder what people thought of you disappearing like that,' murmured Arthur.
'They're probably used to it by now,' shrugged Merlin.
'Oh they knew,' Gwen said with a laugh. 'It wasn't exactly difficult to work out that the night Arthur goes off on a quest Merlin goes missing.'
In Morgana's chambers Morgana ties a cord around an effigy. Morgana clasps the effigy in her pale hands. Morgana sets the head of the effigy on fire smirking evilly as she did so.
In the woods Arthur is sitting by a fire which he stokes slightly. There is the sound of animals in the background. Arthur lies down to sleep in woods without taking the Phoenix Eye of.
Back in Morgana's chambers Morgana's eyes are glowing golden from her using magic. Morgana relights the burnt effigy in a box.
In the woods the Phoenix Eye glows whilst Arthur stirs restlessly.
Back in Morgana's chambers Morgana smiles as the fire continues on. Gwen approaches Morgana's door and pauses before opening it without knocking. Morgana quickly stands up and snaps the box closed and stands up as Gwen enters.
'What is it now?' Morgana asked breathlessly hiding the box with her body.
'I just wanted to see if there's anything you needed,' Gwen replied.
'No. Get out!' Morgana says harshly.
'She's not keeping her act up at the moment,' Merlin said.
'Which only served to make me more suspicious,' agreed Gwen.
'Is something burning?' asked Gwen with a frown.
'I said get out!' Morgana shouted.
Gwen is still frowning, looking unhappy and more than a little shocked at Morgana's strange behaviour. Still Gwen turns to leave even if she is still suspicious of her mistress's behaviour. Morgana watches her go as. Gwen closes the door behind her not looking happy at all.
'I wanted to believe I was mistaken,' Gwen said quietly. 'Morgana and I had been friends for so long!'
In the woods Arthur is still sleeping. A sword appears at the prince's head causing Arthur to wake up. Arthur kicks the man back and draws his sword getting up quickly. Arthur takes the first bandit out by a slash to the stomach. He is weakened by the Phoenix Eye so gets knocked down but from the ground is still able to kill the other bandit. After the fight Arthur lays panting on the floor.
Merlin rides through the woods. Merlin peeks behind the door of a tavern where something is flung across the wall. Merlin shuts the door behind him glances around and Gwaine is shoved across the bar plates smashing in his wake.
'A bar fight,' sighed Arthur. 'Why am I not surprised?'
'Because you now Gwaine,' Merlin said.
'Hello, Gwaine,' Merlin greeted with a bemused smile.
'Perfectly casual greeting,' Arthur commented, 'as that's a completely casual greeting.'
'It is where Gwaine is concerned,' Merlin pointed out.
Gwaine looked up at Merlin with a cheery grin, 'ah! Merlin!' laughs Gwaine. 'How are you?' asked Gwaine getting off the bar.
'Give me my money!' a man with a voice says.
'What did you do?' sighed Arthur.
'Lost at Tabula,' grinned Gwaine.
The man stands with a threatening glower as Gwaine claps his hand on Merlin's back. The man raises his axe causing Merlin and Gwaine run through archway into the town, chased by a mob. Gwaine bumps into someone.
'Sorry,' Gwaine shouts.
Merlin and Gwaine continue running through the town. Gwaine knocks over a table. Merlin and Gwaine duck behind a table. Gwaine naturally brushing his hair back into place first. Merlin peeks out and sees the deep voiced man.
'Gwaine,' Merlin said spotting their pursuers. 'Run,' Merlin said.
Their pursuers spot the two dark haired young men. Merlin is already on the move. Gwaine follows Merlin into an alcove in the wall which seems to be a servants or tradesmen's entrance.
'How did you know that was there?' asked Arthur.
'I'm a servant,' Merlin replied. 'I know where nobles have the servant's entrance placed,' Merlin shrugged.
The image goes up the tower as Merlin and Gwaine burst out onto a wood covered walkway. The two men look out over the edge to see if their pursuers have spotted where they have gone.
'Remind me again what you're doing here,' Gwaine asked.
'I hadn't expected to see Merlin here,' Gwaine said amused.
'Arthur's in trouble, I need your help,' Merlin replied.
'What kind of trouble?' Gwaine asks.
'There!' the deep voiced man shouts spotting the warlock and the future knight.
Their pursuer points them out to his friends causing Merlin and Gwaine to break into a run across the walkway.
'He's gone to the Perilous Lands,' Merlin replied as they run.
'What, you serious?' Gwaine demands running just ahead of Merlin.
'Do you think I'd have turned up without Arthur if I wasn't?' asked Merlin.
'Do you think I'd have rescued him from a bar fight?' Arthur asked offended.
'He rescued us from one,' pointed out Merlin which Arthur promptly ignored.
'Yeah,' Merlin said.
They get to the end of the covered walkway where there is only castle wall left. Merlin looks behind them making sure they are not being followed. Gwaine climbs onto the castle wall and looks down spotting horses including Merlin's tied up. They look at each other and then back where they see their pursuers wielding weapons.
Hunith groaned, 'you are not jumping off the side of a castle.'
'Just now, sounds pretty attractive,' Gwaine laughs. All right.'
'All right, go for the horses,' Gwaine ordered.
'Why are there two horses?' asked Arthur. 'Merlin only brought one.'
'We guessed we "borrowed" someone else's,' Gwaine said shrugging.
'You have got to be joking,' Merlin said looking scared.
Gwaine shrugs and throws Merlin over edge of the castle wall onto a stack of hay. Merlin spits out the mouthful of hay he had swallowed. Gwaine then jumps himself into the pile of hay. Both laugh as the men chasing them stare down at them in frustration.
'See they have sense,' Hunith said. 'Not to throw themselves off buildings.'
'Come on,' Gwaine laughs as they ride away.
Laughing the two runaway from the pile of hay to the horses. They are still laughing as they ride away from yet another town Gwaine can never return to.
Arthur continues to ride in the wood as arrives at the borders of the perilous lands. Arthur slowed his horse showing the perilous lands bathed in the orange glow of the sunset. Arthur blinks sleepily as he opens his map. Arthur is off his horse as he approaches a bridge through a grove.
'Who is it that wishes to cross my bridge?' asked a little man.
'A knight,' Arthur said sheathing his sword, 'on a quest to find the trident of the Fisher King,' Arthur replied.
The small man smiled with the left side of his mouth, 'then you must be Courage.'
'I take it you are Magic,' Arthur said.
'Who else,' replied Merlin.
Arthur raised his eyebrows in surprise, 'no, I'm Prince Arthur of Camelot,' Arthur replied.
The small man steps forward to the end of the bridge extending a hand for Arthur to shake. The small man and the Prince of Camelot grasp hands and shake. Arthur smiles at the man.
'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,' Grettir says.
'Otherwise known as Gwaine and Merlin,' Merlin said amused.
'I don't condone the use of magic,' Arthur said.
'You're going to a kingdom ruled by a sorcerer and you're telling the guard you don't condone magic!' Merlin raised his eyebrows not looking happy.
'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,' warned Grettir.
'Thank you for your help,' was all Arthur said.
'That's all you say,' Merlin snorted. 'Naturally you don't take the warning. Don't even consider that Grettir may be right.'
'Merlin,' Gaius said warningly.
'What?' asked Merlin.
Grettir steps aside waving Arthur past. Arthur steps forward to pass him, but Grettir grabs his arm pulling the phoenix eye to his view.
'That's a very beautiful bracelet,' Grettir said.
'He knew,' Arthur said offended.
'Of course he did,' Merlin said. 'He could sense it like I could.'
'It was a gift from someone very dear to me. She hoped it would bring me good fortune,' Arthur said.
'Or kill you,' Merlin said.
'Did she now?' Grettir murmured letting go of Arthur. 'How very thoughtful of her,' Grettir cackled.
Arthur steps onto the bridge. Arthur turns back around and Grettir is gone. Arthur draws his sword and walks on. Arthur crosses the bridge.
In the Forest of Ander Merlin and Gwaine ride on.
'Why were those men so angry?' asked Merlin.
Gaius chuckled, 'sometimes I forget how from town-life you were raised.'
'It's always the way in gambling. You make a man a fool, he calls you a thief,' Gwaine replied.
Merlin shakes his head at his friend but looking like he was trying not to laugh at his friend.
'How'd you find me?' asked Gwaine.
'Wasn't easy. I've been in almost every tavern in Angard,' Merlin replied.
'How did you know he was in Angard?' asked Arthur.
'Scrying spell,' Merlin replied. 'Showed me exactly where he was but I couldn't exactly say that!'
'So have I,' Gwaine laughed.
'Not for the same purposes,' Lancelot pointed out.
'I only went to the one tavern in Angard,' Merlin couldn't help but point out.
'Sure you have,' laughed Gwaine.
Gwaine and Merlin laugh.
In the Perilous Lands Arthur walks alone through a dead, scorched forest. Arthur's movements suddenly become a lot more sluggish as the Phoenix Eye glows at the prince's wrist.
In Morgana's chambers Gwen fixes Morgana's hair.
'You're so good to me, Gwen. Thank you,' Morgana says.
'And your trying to kill her,' Merlin said quietly.
'It's nothing,' Gwen said braiding Morgana's hair silently.
'You're upset with me. I know, I shouted at you last night. I'm sorry,' Morgana said turning around to look at her servant. 'What can I do to make it up?' Morgana asked.
'It was more my fears that she was on Morgause's side,' sighed Gwen.
'It's forgotten,' Gwen replied.
'Why don't I give you some time off,' Morgana suggested further inciting Gwen's suspicions.
'She just wanted me out of the way so that she could perform magic,' sighed Gwen.
'Don't look at me like that. I'm sure I can look after myself for one night,' Morgana said.
'It was us I was worried about,' muttered Gwen.
'That's very kind of you, My Lady,' Gwen said softly.
'I'm glad we're friends again,' Morgana smiled.
'I'd hardly call one plotting to murder the other, and the other suspecting the first friends,' mused Merlin.
'Before I go, I'll make sure everything's ready for your return,' Gwen said.
'That's sweet. But don't stay too late,' Morgana said turning and walking toward the door.
Gwen sighs as Morgana leaves.
'That's when you decided to spy on Morgana,' Gaius said succinctly.
'You did what?' Arthur shouted furious.
'Yes,' Gwen said. 'And I'm glad I did! I'm glad I know what she is!'
'She could have killed you!' Arthur shouted you.
'And this is precisely why I didn't tell you!' retorted Gwen.
Merlin and Gwaine ride through a forest at the borders to the Perilous Lands. Merlin's horse whinnies but Merlin pulls on it's reigns.
'This is it. On the other side of the forest lie the Perilous Lands,' Gwaine said.
'Doesn't look too friendly,' Merlin said.
'Do the words perilous mean anything to you?' demanded Arthur. 'They're called perilous for a reason!'
'That's because it's not. Believe me, it's wretched,' Gwaine said.
'Why am I not surprised that you've been to the Perilous Lands?' asked Arthur.
'Because it's Gwaine,' Merlin replied.
'How do you know, you've never been there,' Merlin said.
'I have too,' Gwaine retorted.
'I've travelled to many places, Merlin,' Gwaine replied.
'Probably running away from angry villagers you've swindled of their gold,' Gwen shook her head.
'Not the Perilous Lands, I know that,' Merlin said.
'Why?' Gwaine asked.
'There aren't any taverns,' Merlin pointed out.
Leon laughed, 'I didn't know Gwaine could survive in a land without mead!'
'Hey!' Gwaine retorted.
Gwaine laughs, 'I told you it was wretched.'
Morgana opens the door to her chambers and looks inside to see if Gwen is still present. She keeps her door half open. There is a large silver dish of apples and grapes on Morgana's table.
'Gwen?' Morgana calls.
Apparently satisfied that Gwen is not present Morgana walks into her chambers closing the door behind her. Morgana opens a cupboard and pulls a box out, and sets it on the table as Gwen watches horrified and betrayed behind the screen. Morgana uses magic to light a fire in the box.
In the Perilous Lands Arthur wraps his arm around the trunk of a dead tree. The eye of the phoenix glows as Arthur pants. Arthur drags himself on. Arthur struggles on but falls into mud. Arthur tries to use a dead branch to pull himself out but it breaks and he falls back in. Exhausted Arthur collapses and gets submerged in the mud.
'The power of the phoenix,' sighed Gaius.
Gwaine crouches behind a moss covered tree and motions for Merlin to stay put while he scouts the apparently bridge. Merlin nods and then heads straight for the bridge when Gwaine leaves. At Merlin's approach Grettir appears.
'Did you really expect Merlin to do as he's told,' Leon asked amused.
'When does he ever,' snorts Arthur.
'So, Magic has arrived,' Grettir says.
'What?' Merlin asked scared.
'There is nothing to be afraid of. Your presence is essential if Arthur is to succeed on his quest,' Grettir says.
'How do you know about Arthur? Who are you?' Merlin asked.
'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,' Grettir replies.
'It's not my mission, it's Arthur's,' Merlin retorted.
'Arthur and Merlin are inexplicably bound to one another,' Gaius said quietly. 'Arthur's mission is Merlin's.'
'Two sides of the same coin,' murmured Arthur.
'That's what you choose to believe. It's no accident that Arthur chose this path or you chose to follow him,' Grettir says.
'Not like I had a choice with Morgana trying to kill him,' Merlin said grimly.
Gwaine walks up to Merlin and is about to draw his sword when Grettir speaks.
'Ah, Finally! Strength has arrived, the trio is complete,' Grettir says.
'Three is a powerfully magic number,' murmured Merlin.
'Of course it is,' snorted Arthur.
Gwaine draws his sword, 'who's he?'
Gaius winced, 'that's not a good idea.'
Merlin laughs, 'no it wasn't.'
'What happened?' asked Arthur warily.
'Nothing bad,' Merlin said.
'Yes it was,' Gwaine said.
'You'll see,' Merlin said nodding at the screen.
Merlin tries to stop Gwaine from swinging his sword at Grettir. Grettir turns Gwaine's sword into a large flower. Gwaine stared at the large white flower in his hand whilst Grettir smiles.
'I mean no harm to either of you. And I'd thank you to mean no harm in return,' Grettir says.
'Where's my sword?' Gwaine demanded.
'It will return to you once you reach the other side,' Grettir says.
Grettir gestures for Gwaine to cross the bridge. Gwaine grimaces at the fact his sword is a giant flower and crosses the bridge.
'The Fisher King has waited many years for this day. Do not deny him what he wishes,' warned Grettir.
'Wait the Fisher King is still alive,' Arthur said sharply.
'Not anymore,' Merlin replied. 'Just watch I'm sure everything will be revealed. The Fisher King wasn't evil. At least not when I met him.'
Merlin nods at Grettir. Grettir once more gestures towards the bridge. Merlin walks to the bridge to follow Gwaine but not before Grettir has one last piece of advice for Merlin.
'Remember, nothing is as it seems,' Grettir says.
'He liked you better than me,' Arthur said.
'At least he didn't turn your sword into a flower!' Gwaine retorted.
'I wasn't stupid enough to threaten Grettir,' Merlin said. 'He may be short of stature but he has magic – powerful magic!'
'And he recognises you as kin,' adds Gaius softly. 'He was always going to take to you better than either Arthur or Gwaine.'
In the mud pit further in the Perilous Lands Arthur's sword followed by his hand rises out of the mud. Before sinking back into the mud once more. With an intense look of concentration Arthur struggles to pull himself out of the mud. Arthur manages to throw the sword out of the mud and then pull himself out but collapses on the ground.
That night Gwaine and Merlin have set up camp. Gwaine is breaking wood into the fire. Gwaine and Merlin hear a distant squeal causing both men to turn to the sound of the noise.
'What was that?' demanded Gwen.
'Don't worry it's just a Wyvern,' Merlin said calmly.
'Just?' demanded Arthur.
'They're related to dragons,' Merlin shrugged.
'And you're a Dragonlord,' understood Arthur.
'That's why they stopped attacking,' Gwaine murmured.
'What was that?' Merlin asked nervously.
Gwaine snickered, 'seems Merlin and Gwen think alike. What do you think of that princess?'
'Pheasant,' Gwaine replied.
'Pheasant?' Leon asked incredulously.
'Pheasant?' Merlin asked weakly.
'Very big one,' Gwaine said picking up his sword.
'You can turn back if you want,' Merlin said.
'Heh, I'm not scared of pheasants,' Gwaine replied balancing his sword on his knees.
'I don't know. Why do you want to do this?' asked Merlin.
'Same reason as you: help a friend,' Gwaine replied.
'Arthur's lucky to have us,' Merlin laughed.
'He really is,' Gwaine grinned.
'Not Arthur,' Gwaine said shaking his head.
'I'd do the same for you,' Merlin said softly.
'Well, I'd hope so. You're the only friend I've got,' Gwaine said.
'I certainly hope that's not true anymore,' Lancelot said.
'Of course not,' laughed Gwaine, 'but Merlin will always be my best friend.'
'I'm not surprised,' laughed Merlin.
Gwaine laughs too. There are several roar-like squeals in the distance.
'They sound like three pheasants,' Merlin said.
'At least,' Gwaine said digging his sword back into the ground.
In the physician's chambers someone knocks frantically on the door. Gaius opens the door and Gwen steps in. Gwen looks distressed as she steps in where she frantically wrings her hands together.
'I'm sorry to wake you,' Gwen said distraught.
'I'm used to it,' Gaius said. 'Between Merlin, Morgana and the sick.'
'Don't be silly,' Gaius rebuked closing the door behind Gwen.
'I'm not sure who else I can talk to,' Gwen said.
'What is it, child?' asked Gaius.
'It's Morgana,' Gwen said.
'What's happened?' asked Gaius urgently.
'She, she had a box,' Gwen said sounding like she was close to tears, 'and...her eyes, it was like they were on fire. What do I do, Gaius? She's using magic,' Gwen said.
'Not all magic is bad,' Merlin said quietly.
'I know,' Gwen said quietly.
'Everything may not be as it seems, Gwen,' Gaius said gently.
'No, no. I know what I saw,' Gwen said turning away from Gaius. 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,' Gwen said.
'She doesn't,' Merlin said grimly.
'I wish I could say otherwise, but I fear you're right,' Gaius sighed.
In the Perilous Lands Arthur continues wakes in the sunlight. Arthur drags himself up wearily blinking in the sunlight as he picks up his sword. Arthur continues walking wearily. Arthur clambers over rocks. Arthur finds The Dark Tower, and sees wyverns in the sky which start making their way towards him.
Merlin and Gwaine climb up the hill. They too see The Dark Tower close to where they are standing. Merlin climbs on grim expression on his face. The wind blows their hair all over the place.
'You caught up with him quickly,' commented Lancelot.
'We weren't slowed down by the Eye of the Phoenix,' Merlin pointed out.
'There it is,' Merlin said grimly.
'What's that in the sky?' Gwaine asked.
'Wyverns,' Merlin said grimly.
They're not birds,' Gwaine said.
'I've never seen creatures like that,' Merlin admitted.
'It's like they're hunting something,' Gwaine said.
'Arthur,' Gwen cried out.
Two of the creatures squawk and circle around something between Merlin and Gwaine and the Dark Tower. Looking down Merlin sees a tiny flash of light.
'What was that?' asked Merlin.
'Sword,' Gwaine replied.
'Arthur,' Gwen said worry colouring her voice.
'I'm fine,' Arthur pointed out.
'Thanks to Merlin I'll bet,' grinned Gwaine.
'It's Arthur,' Merlin said.
The Wyverns circle. Gwaine and Merlin run off after Arthur. Arthur stands with his sword straight trying to fend off the wyverns even as the Phoenix Eye glows draining him of his strength. Twice one of the Wyvern's dive for him forcing Arthur to defend himself but the Phoenix Eye is draining Arthur so Arthur begins to tire stumbling as he is attacked again. Still Arthur attacks it and this times hits the Wyvern.
'Did you not think it strange you were so exhausted?' asked Merlin.
'I thought it was some spell on the land,' admitted Arthur.
'Which just happened to dissipate as I and Gwaine turned,' Merlin said. 'And you lost the bracelet.'
'Honestly it didn't cross my bind,' admitted Arthur.
'Too busy feeling annoyed at us for turning up,' suggested Gwaine.
Arthur to begin to run for the Dark Tower as he is followed by the wyverns. Arthur enters and lowers the portcullis preventing the wyverns' entrance. The wyvern screeches but then flies up leaving a panting Arthur just within the portcullis.
Merlin and Gwaine run through the rock torn path as they approach the Dark Tower, but pause when they see the wyverns circling the tower.
'That thing seems to really hate Arthur,' Leon said.
'I doubt there was a lot of prey for the Wyverns in the Perilous Land,' Gaius corrected. 'A half-dead man would have been a meal for them.'
'Lovely,' grimaced Arthur.
'I should've known,' Gwaine said.
'What are they?' asked Merlin.
'Wyverns. Distant cousins of the dragon. They're creatures of magic, so be careful,' warned Gwaine.
'So am I,' laughed Merlin.
In the Dark Tower Arthur continues to fight Wyverns. Arthur stumbles through an archway to try and escape the Wyverns who are still chasing Arthur. The wyverns fly through the ruins.
Meanwhile Merlin hoists up the portcullis. Merlin is already in the Dark Tower but Gwaine is on the other side. Gwaine is then able to crawl under the portcullis to join Merlin.
'Okay,' Gwaine said quietly.
'Quick, quick, quick!' Merlin says.
Merlin is feeling the strain of holding up the portcullis. That much is clear from Merlin's voice and expression. Merlin drops the portcullis when Gwaine gets through. They run off in search of Arthur.
'Let's split up,' Merlin said.
Further in the Dark Tower Arthur is climbing further up the Dark Tower. When Arthur reaches another level Arthur closes the door and barricades himself in and collapses against the door as the Phoenix Eye glows. The sound of Wyverns can still be heard. Arthur looked as though he was going to fall asleep but as a claw of a Wyvern broke through the wooden door Arthur jolted upright grabbing his sword. The wyvern continues to beat on the door.
'It's getting worse,' Gwen said softly.
'Don't worry Merlin will be there soon to save the day,' grinned Gwaine.
'I can look after myself,' retorted Arthur.
'And doing a fine job of it,' grinned Gwaine.
'Considering he's managed to not be ripped to pieces by Wyverns in his state I'd say he's doing very well,' Gaius said grimly.
Merlin to runs up the steps to a floor as he and Gwaine continue to search for him. Merlin looks around the room for Arthur. Then he hears the sound of the wyverns in the distance.
In a rougher corridor Gwaine is searching for Arthur.
'Arthur?! Arthur?!' Gwaine calls.
The wyvern is still trying to get through the door as Arthur holds his sword weakly and then faints. The Phoenix Eye glows and the wyverns get through the door. Merlin hearing the sound turns to run off.
'Did you understand them?' asked Arthur.
'Wyverns are not like dragons,' Merlin said. 'They are unintelligent but I understood enough that I knew they were on a hunt.'
Merlin finds Arthur who is just about to be attacked by wyverns. Merlin runs down the few steps to where Arthur and the wyverns are. Then Merlin jumps in front of the wyverns.
'Nun de ge dei s'eikein kai emois epe'essin hepesthai!' Merlin shouted in dragonspeak.
The Wyverns hiss, bow and back away from the dragon lord. The wyverns exit submissively. Merlin removes the Phoenix Eye from Arthur's wrist. As soon as Merlin does so Arthur wakes. Merlin breathes in relief.
'What the hell are you doing here?' demanded Arthur.
'Why can you never just say thanks?' asked Merlin.
'Thanks?! What? For completely ruining the quest?!' Arthur shouted.
'He saved your life,' Gwen said gently.
'I didn't know that at the time,' Arthur said.
'Well, it's a good job I was here, otherwise you'd be wyvern fodder by now,' Merlin retorted but keeping his voice low.
'How many times do I have to get it into your thick skull? I am supposed to be doing this alone!' Arthur shouted.
Merlin just shakes his head in disbelief at the stubborn prince. A third wyvern screeches behind Merlin and rears up ready to attack. It stops as Gwaine stabs it in the back.
'Great. This just gets better and better. Are Gwen and Morgana here too? Are we going to have a surprise party?' Arthur said sarcastically.
'There're more wyverns on their way. We need to get out of here,' Gwaine said.
'Why are the wyverns so interested in you?' asked Hunith groaning.
'They're hungry!' Merlin repeated.
'I'm not leaving without the trident. It was the whole point of this quest,' Arthur said walking out of the room.
'He's been free of the Eye for all of two seconds and is already back to his usual prattish self,' Merlin rolled his eyes.
'Merlin,' growled Arthur.
'Do you want us to help you?' Merlin called to the prince. Or do you want to do this alone?' Merlin asked sarcastically.
'Merlin!' Arthur shouted back angrily.
Merlin smiles expecting this reaction and follows Arthur. Gwaine rolls his eyes and follows Merlin with a small laugh out of the room.
'Do you know where the trident is?' Merlin asked.
'Couldn't you sense it?' asked Arthur.
Merlin shook his head, 'I didn't sense anything.'
'If I did, there wouldn't be a problem, would there?' Arthur pointed out as they climbed the tower.
'Any clues you can give us?' asked Merlin.
'This is a quest, Merlin, not a treasure hunt,' Arthur snapped.
'Well, it is sort of a...' Merlin said stopping on the steps but trailed off as Arthur shouted at him.
'Merlin!' Arthur shouted
Arthur who has his sword out strides across a corridor. Gwaine and Merlin follow the prince searching the tower for the Trident. Footsteps trudge up the tower but then suddenly Merlin stops and turns on a spiral staircase to look through a doorway.]
'Look at this. Looks like a throne room,' Merlin calls.
Gwaine and Arthur come back down the stairs. Behind the cobwebs is a wooden chair that looks like a throne.
'If the trident's going to be anywhere...' Arthur murmured.
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.
'Still the clumsy idiot,' snorted Arthur.
'Merlin, watch out!' shouted Gwaine as a stone door falls into place.
'Merlin?!' Gwaine shouts.
Gwaine and Arthur press their ears against the door.
'Merlin?! You alright?!' shouts Arthur.
'Gwaine?! Arthur?!' shouts Merlin.
Merlin presses his ear against the door.
'There's got to be a way to open this,' Gwaine says.
Gwaine searches the edges of the door. Merlin turns around and walks toward the throne as though sensing something there.
'You sensed something,' Gaius said quietly.
'Yes,' Merlin agreed.
'So, Emrys, you are here at last,' an old voice says.
Merlin steps around to the front of the throne where the Fisher King sits, covered in cobwebs. Merlin bows his head. The Fisher King turns to look at Merlin.
'So, you are still alive,' Merlin breathed.
'For now,' The Fisher King replied.
'What's that supposed to mean?' frowned Leon.
'The Fisher King was old and tired,' Merlin said quietly. 'He didn't want to live much longer.'
On the other side of the doorway Arthur and Gwaine are trying to figure out how to get into the doorway.
'Now I'm sure if we just reach in here...' Arthur says pulling out a brick causing bugs come pouring out, '...we'll be able to find something to release the door.'
'Go on, then,' Gwaine said not sounding like he wanted to reach into the bugs.
'Honestly you two are supposed to be two of our greatest warriors,' laughed Gwen. 'And you can't handle a few bugs.'
Gwaine slaps Arthur's back, 'don't be such a princess. It is your quest, after all.'
Merlin snickered, 'he's got a point.'
Arthur scowls mat Gwaine much like present Arthur is doing to Merlin. Arthur pulls his glove tight before grimacing he reaches into the bug infested hole.
In the throne room crumbling stone noises on the other side of the door. Merlin and the Fisher King are still staring at one another.
'That would be...' Merlin said quietly.
'Your friends Courage and Strength, I know. Without their help, you would not be here,' the Fisher King said.
'Of course, my quest was all to get Merlin to meet the Fisher King,' Arthur scowled.
'What is it you want?' Merlin demanded.
The Fisher King sighed, 'I want an end to my suffering.'
'He wants to die,' Gwen said sadly.
'The Fisher King had lived a long and painful existence,' Gaius said softly.
'Immortality is never worth the price,' Merlin said sagely.
'You want to die,' Merlin said thickly.
'I have been waiting all these years for the arrival of a new time: the time of the Once and Future King,' The Fisher King said.
'I've heard these words before,' Merlin murmured.
'And you will hear them again. For that time is dawning,' The Fisher King said.
'Well this was only a few months ago,' Gwen pointed out, 'and now we've all seen this. The laws will change!'
'Of course they will,' agreed Arthur quickly.
'Thank you, Arthur,' Merlin said quietly.
'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 said letting the trident fall to the floor. 'But the real prize is something far greater.'
Merlin sees the glass vial in the King's hand which glows dimly in the darkened room.
Merlin flinched knowing what the water contained. Seeing, talking to Freya was both a blessing and a burden. Freya who would forever be caught between two worlds just as Avalon was.
'What is it?' asked Arthur warily.
'Nothing bad,' Merlin said thickly.
'But it hurt you,' Gwen said softly.
'Just memories,' sighed Merlin. 'It's nothing.'
'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,' The Fisher King said.
'What are you talking about?' asked Merlin
'Albion's time of need is near. And in that dark hour you must be strong,' The Fisher King said.
'She's talking about Morgana's take over isn't she,' Gwen said.
'Yes,' Merlin said grimly.
'I take it you used it,' Arthur said.
'Of course, I did,' snapped Merlin. 'Do you really think it was just a coincidence that the army of the dead just turned to dust?'
'You destroyed them,' Arthur said.
'Yeah,' shrugged Merlin.
'Thank Goodness,' sighed Gwen.
'What army of the dead?' asked Hunith warily.
'Don't worry none of us were hurt too badly,' Merlin assured his friends.
'For you alone can save her. Your powers are great, but you will need help. And that is what I'm giving you,' The Fisher King said.
Merlin grasps the water vial but does not move to take it off the Fisher King.
'Well take it,' Gwaine said.
'Everything comes with a price,' Merlin said simply.
'When all seems lost, this will show you the way,' The Fisher King said softly.
Merlin takes the vial of the Fisher King nodding to the old sorcerer, 'thank you,' Merlin bows slightly and backs away from the Fisher King.
'Now why can't you treat me like that?' asked Arthur.
'I have given you a gift. Now you must give me one in return,' The Fisher King said.
'See,' Merlin said.
'Yeah but you already know what happened,' Gwaine laughed.
'Fair point,' shrugged Merlin.
'But I have nothing to give,' Merlin said.
The Fisher King stands moaning, 'I think you do.'
'What?' asked Arthur.
'Well it's really due to Morgana,' Merlin snorted.
'The Phoenix Eye?' frowned Arthur.
Merlin mulls it over, then pulls out the Phoenix Eye bracelet which at the present is dim.
'If I give you this,' Merlin nods, 'you will die,' Merlin says softly.
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 with a pained look on his face. The Phoenix Eye glows and the Fisher King is whisked away in a maelstrom that causes Merlin to shield his face.
'Thank you,' whispers the voice of the Fisher King as his soul disappears from this realm.
'He got peace,' Hunith said quietly, 'which is what he wanted in the end.'
Merlin looks at the throne with a pained look on his face. There is the sound of stone against stone. Merlin gets up and looks towards the sound. The stone door has been opened partially and Arthur is rolling under it.
'Merlin,' Arthur exclaims.
'Arthur,' Gwen shook her head caught between fondness and exasperation, 'you timing leaves much to be desired.'
Merlin sighs as Arthur walks forward and slaps him on the arm while looking around. Gwaine sighs gives Merlin a manly hug. Gwaine pats Merlin on the back a bit whilst Arthur looks around the throne room.
'Ha! Look what I found!' Arthur holds up the Fisher King's trident.
'I think you mean what Merlin's found,' Gwaine snorted.
'Let's get out of this place,' Arthur said.
Arthur forces Merlin and Gwaine to move as he walks straight through them. Merlin and Gwaine exchange a look. Gwaine scoffs. Merlin snorts and turns and looks back at the throne before leaving.
'Manners,' Gwen reprimanded.
At Camelot's borders Gwaine, Arthur, and Merlin ride to the edge of a field.
'This is the border. By Uther's decree, I can go no further,' Gwaine said halting his horse.
'I'm sorry, Gwaine. Nothing I can do to change that,' Arthur said.
'Maybe one day,' Merlin said with a small smile.
'One day soon,' Merlin grinned.
'Yeah. When Camelot gets itself a half-decent king,' laughs Gwaine.
'Careful...' warns Arthur.
Merlin snickers.
'What?' demanded Merlin. 'I'm not too fond of Uther. Many people here aren't.'
Merlin didn't say why they weren't fond of Uther. Gaius and Merlin had to hide their magic for fear of their lives! Balinor was forced to flee from his knights. Tom was killed on his orders. Lancelot and Gwaine were exiled by the man. It seemed the only people to not have grievances with Uther were Leon and Percival who had never met the man ever Arthur had lost his mother to Uther's arrogance.
'He's still my father,' Arthur said.
'I know,' Merlin said quietly. 'That is why I protect him. Not because I care for him but because I know the pain it would bring you if anything should happen to him!'
'He is my father,' Arthur reminded them.
'Well, you can't have everything, heh?' laughed Gwaine.
'Where will you go this time?' asked Merlin.
'To a tavern,' Gwen shook her head disapproving.
'You know me to well, my lady,' Gwaine laughed.
'Gwaine,' Arthur said warningly
Gwaine shrugs and licks his finger and sticks it in the air.
'I think I'll ride south,' Gwaine said.
'Nice taverns in the south is there?' laughed Leon.
Merlin gave a short disbelieving laugh, 'you can't keep living like that.'
'It was fun,' Gwaine laughed, 'but I can't deny having friends and a bed isn't displeasing.'
'Yeah, but it's fun trying,' laughed Gwaine.
Arthur nudges his horse forward letting the two friends say their goodbyes.
'Thanks, Gwaine,' Merlin nods.
'Hmm,' Gwaine nods.
'I'll remember this, Gwaine,' Arthur adds.
Gwaine nods and smiles sadly as Arthur and Merlin ride on. Arthur turns back and gives a small wave to Gwaine. Gwaine grits his teeth turns to ride off.
Arthur and Merlin approach Camelot.
'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,' Merlin gabbed.
'Merlin, Arthur said you can control wyverns,' Arthur said slowly.
'Yeah,' shrugged Merlin. 'So?'
'So you shouldn't be scared of them!' Arthur raised his voice slightly.
'And, oh! The door to the throne room! That was so close!' Merlin yabbered.
'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,' Arthur said.
'No you're just riding back into Camelot together,' snorted Leon.
'We just happened to meet on the way back,' Arthur replied with a straight face.
'You know everyone knew that Merlin had followed you,' Elyan said.
'Everyone but Uther that is,' laughed Leon.
'Which all things considered is a good thing,' Gaius said grimly.
'Of course I was,' Merlin said blankly.
'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,' Arthur said.
Merlin snorted, 'spare time you've got to be kidding me! If it's not saving Camelot it's saving your life. If not it's working for you or Gaius!'
'Ah, of course. If your father was to find out you weren't alone...' Merlin said.
'Yes, Merlin. So...just keep your mouth shut,' Arthur ordered.
'Absolutely, Sire. I'd do anything you say...for a price,' Merlin said.
Arthur turns sharply toward Merlin, 'what kind of price?'
'A day off,' suggested Merlin.
'What did you think I was going to say?' asked Merlin.
'Hmm. I think you've had too many of those herbs that you've been picking,' Arthur says setting off at a gallop towards Camelot.
'See,' Merlin said. 'Never a day off!'
That night in Morgana's chambers 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.
'Surprised to see Arthur alive,' Merlin said bitterly.
'My Lady?' Gwen asks seeinh Arthur dismount in the Square. 'Arthur! Oh, thank God!' Gwen whispers.
'I was worried that Morgana had done something,' Gwen said softly.
'Isn't it wonderful? I'm so happy,' Morgana said.
'Course you are,' snorts Arthur.
Gwen looks suspiciously at Morgana. There is an awkward silence as Gwen watches Morgana suspiciously before she catches what she is doing. Gwen drops to her knees and picks up the cup.
'I'll clear that up,' Gwen said softly.
In the Council Chambers Arthur presents the trident at court. Uther is in his throne with Morgana to his left hand side. The other council members are gathered.
'Arthur, I don't know what pleases me more,' Uther says as Arthur hands the trident to Merlin, '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,' Uther said standing up clapping Arthur on the shoulders.
'No pressure,' muttered Merlin.
'Thank you, Father,' Arthur said.
'I have no doubt that you will one day make a fine king,' Uther said.
'The best,' grinned Merlin.
With a hand on Arthur's shoulder the king and his son walk away as the court applauds. Morgana stands up her face emotionless and joins in the applause. The two knights behind her grin and clap.
In the Physician's chambers Gaius holds up the water vial.
'It's from the Lake of Avalon?' Gaius asked.
'That's what he told me,' Merlin agreed.
'Interesting,' Gaius said.
'You think?' Merlin asked.
'Well, it must have some significance,' Merlin said.
'It did,' Merlin said grimly.
'Maybe...Do you believe his warnings?' asked Merlin.
'They were true unfortunately,' Merlin said grimly.
'Well, we already know of one enemy within our walls,' Gaius said.
'Morgana,' Merlin said grimly.
'Morgana,' Merlin said grimly.
'Her abilities are growing. Whether the Fisher King is right or wrong, we'd be foolish to ignore his words,' Gaius said.