Queen of Hearts
'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 says as Merlin comes into view his eyes flashing gold.
'I think we get the idea,' Merlin muttered darkly.
The doors to the King's throne open to reveal Gwen dressed in a rich, purple and gold gown. Gwen walks down the aisle between the knights and courtiers of Camelot. Gwen kneels on the dais before King Arthur. In the crowd Merlin smiles happily.
'By the sacred laws vested in me, I pronounce you Guinevere, Queen of Camelot,' Arthur says.
Arthur places the crown on Gwen's head crowning her as Queen of Camelot. Arthur then takes Gwen's hand and they each sit on a throne. In the crowd Merlin is positively beaming. On the Queen's thrown Gwen smiles. Gwen turns to look at Arthur who smiles as they share a loving look.
'That hasn't happened,' frowned Lancelot.
Merlin frowned, 'Morgana must be having a vision.'
'How do you know?' asked Arthur.
'Because you are not king,' Merlin said, 'and you are not even engaged to Gwen. The only explanation is that this is a vision of the future.'
'And Morgana's a seer,' Arthur nodded.
'It certainly explains Morgana's actions in regards to Gwen,' Gaius said quietly.
'What do you mean?' asked Gwen.
'Why did she suddenly decide to have you arrested for enchanting Arthur,' Merlin said. 'It after all would not help with her plans to become queen but if she feared that you wold take her place…'
'She tried to have Uther kill Gwen before Gwen could become my queen,' Arthur said quietly. 'Anyway I thought it was the old man.'
'It was Morgana!' Gwen said. 'I don't know how the old man was involved.'
'It's funny that as soon as the old man was found Gwen's sentence got lifted,' Merlin grinned.
'He saved me,' murmured Gwen. 'Who is he, Merlin?'
'You'll see,' laughed Merlin.
In Morgana's chambers it is night when Morgana wakes suddenly gasping as she sits up in her bed. Morgana looks at her healing bracelet wondering why it isn't working. Morgana goes to the window.
'Is everything alright, My Lady?' Gwen asks.
Arthur winced, 'I doubt you are the best person to be asking that given what's upsetting Morgana.'
'I'm fine. It's late. You should go to bed,' Morgana says.
'Goodnight,' Gwen replies.
'Goodnight, Gwen,' Morgana says.
The next day Morgana walks through the corridors of the castle. Morgana is wearing a red dress that seems to highlight her pale skin and red lips. Morgana is in the upper part of the castle. Morgana looks down to check that no one is following her.
'Sister. Sister,' Morgause's voice echoes.
'Mind-Speak?' asked Arthur.
'I didn't hear it,' frowned Merlin. 'I usually hear Mind-Speak,' Merlin said.
'A well trained sorcerer can direct it to only those they want to speak to,' Gaius said quietly. 'The druids tend to broadcast openly so that any sorcerer can hear them.'
'Oh,' Merlin said. 'I didn't know that.'
Morgana walks towards the sound of the voice. Morgana looks around hearing a door opens near her revealing a flight of white steps leading upwards.
'Sister, this way,' Morgause's voice echoes.
Morgana walks on her heals echoing on the stone floor of the empty corridor. She looks warily at where Morgause had directed her to go. A torch on a post beside the stairwell lights suddenly causing Morgana to smile as she walks.
'Sister,' Morgause's voice echoes.
Morgana takes the torch out of the metal hoop holding it up and goes to the stairwell. Morgana approaches an apparently empty chamber. It is seen that the chamber is dark and dusty from disuse.
'Sister,' Morgause's voice echoes.
Morgana enters the disused chamber waving the torch so that she could see the chamber more clearly. Morgana looks around trying to locate her sister when Morgause's echoy voice sounds once more
'This way,' Morgause calls.
Morgana walks further into the room where she finds a cobwebbed table. There is the sound of rushing wind as Morgause appears behind Morgana. Morgana spins around looking a little shocked.
'Hello, Sister,' Morgause says and the two hug.
'I can't tell you how good it is to see you,' Morgana says.
'After the horrific nightmare,' snickered Merlin.
'I don't think the lovebirds' think of it as a nightmare,' laughed Gwaine causing Merlin to chortle.
'Shut up,' Arthur growled.
'I received your message. Tell me about these dreams that are so troubling to you,' Morgause says.
'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,' Morgana says quietly.
'It seems that Gwen is destined to be queen,' Gaius says.
Arthur beamed, 'I always knew that.'
'There are some dreams that are so powerful your healing bracelet will not stop them. It is a prophecy,' warned Morgause.
'How can that be? She's a servant. Uther would never allow Arthur to marry her,' Morgana says.
'If Gwen is crowned Queen it is obviously after,' Merlin glances at Arthur hesitantly, 'Uther has passed on.'
'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,' Morgause says causing Morgana to smirk.
Merlin sighed, 'and so she tried to have you exiled and when that didn't work she tried to have you killed.'
In Morgana's chamber Gwen arranges breakfast moving the silver plates around. Morgana stares at her without Gwen noticing. Gwen looks up and notices Morgana staring at her and gasps in shock and fear.
'You startled me,' Gwen said forcing a laugh.
'You have no idea how hard it was trying not to let Morgana know I could see through her,' Gwen said. 'How scared I was.'
'I don't blame you,' Hunith said quietly.
'You could have come to me,' Arthur said quietly.
'If it was anyone else I would have,' Gwen said, 'but this was Morgana a girl you had grown up with. I couldn't say anything!'
'You're up early this morning,' comments Gwen.
'I...I couldn't sleep. I went for a walk,' Morgana replied simply.
'Did you want to change?' asked Gwen.
'No,' Morgana shakes her head. 'Have you spoken to Arthur recently?' asked Morgana.
'Very subtle,' muttered Arthur.
'I saw him yesterday in the market,' Gwen said turning away from Morgana with a worried look on her face.
'I knew Morgana was planning something I just didn't know what,' Gwen said quietly.
'It must be hard,' Morgana said quietly.
'What's that?' Gwen asked.
'Hiding your feelings for him,' Morgana replied approaching Gwen from behind.
'I'm really sure that bothers you,' Merlin said sarcastically.
'I'm not sure what you mean,' Gwen lied her voice shaking slightly.
'You should never turn your back on a known enemy,' scolds Arthur.
'I know how you feel about Arthur and how he feels about you,' Morgana says stopping behind her servant. 'Do you deny it?' asked Morgana causing Gwen to turn around where Morgana takes Gwen's hand. 'It's such a shame you can't be more open about your feelings for each other.'
'Look what happened when we were,' Arthur said darkly.
Gwen pulls her hand away, 'if you'll excuse me, My Lady,' Gwen says turning away from Morgana.
'I knew if Morgana was trying to get us together she had to have another plan,' Gwen said bitterly.
In the Dining Room Gwen and Merlin serve the royal family breakfast. Uther sits at the end of the table with Arthur to his left and Morgana to his right. There is a table of platters of food. Merlin has a platter in his hands.
'That's all for breakfast?' asked Hunith weakly.
'Yeah so?' asked Arthur.
'In Ealdor we wouldn't have all that in a week,' explained Merlin. 'It's better in Camelot because Gaius is the court physician but that's still a lot of food for breakfast where we would have an apple or a piece of bread. Cheese if we're lucky.'
'What news from the northern borders?' asked Uther taking a sip of wine.
'There've been a number of minor skirmishes,' Arthur replied.
Arthur accidentally touches Gwen's hand when she reaches to pour his drink. Morgana glares.
'You think Odin is testing our defences?' Uther asks as Arthur stares admiringly at Gwen. 'Arthur, are you listening?' the king demands.
'No he's ogling Gwen,' snickered Gwaine causing Arthur, Lancelot and Elyan to glare at him.
'What's that? Arthur asks as Gwen turns away and Arthur reaches forward and accidentally knocks over his cup.
'And you call me clumsy,' snickered Merlin.
'What on earth is wrong with you?' demands Uther.
'He's in love,' laughed Gwaine.
Gwen rushes to clean it up. Merlin smiles. Morgana grimaces.
'Nothing. Sorry,' Arthur apologizes hastily.
In Arthur's chambers Arthur sits at the table, staring at parchment and twirling a feather pen as he pouts slightly. He looks up when the door creaks open and Morgana peeks in. Morgana smiles at Arthur.
'It was Morgana who gave you the idea for the picnic wasn't it,' groaned Merlin.
'Yes,' Arthur said grimly.
'And you thought it was I who gave away your position,' snorted Merlin.
'Morgana,' Arthur says.
'Arthur, am I disturbing you?' asked Morgana standing in the doorway.
'I don't exactly think that Arthur was doing a lot of work,' snorted Merlin.
'No. Come in,' Arthur said twirling his quill in his hands as Morgana enters fully and closes the door behind her. 'To what do I owe this pleasure?'
'Well, I was worried about you. You weren't yourself at dinner,' Morgana said.
'Just a bit tired,' Arthur said flicking his quill around.
'Really?' Morgana says sounding disbelieving and amused. 'I thought the reason you were so distracted had something to do with the fact that Gwen was in the room,' Morgana says walking further into the room and pouring herself a goblet of water.
'I have no idea what you're talking about,' Arthur lied.
'Of course not,' Gwaine laughed.
'Come on, Arthur,' laughed Morgana. Why can't you admit you have feelings for her? A blind man could see it,' Morgana said taking the seat next to Arthur.
'She sounds like you Merlin,' Gwen said quietly. 'Didn't you say the same?'
'Yes I did,' grimaced Merlin.
'Is it really that obvious?' asked Arthur looking up from his paper at Morgana and placing his quill down.
'Yes,' Merlin said.
'It's only so obvious to me because...I know Gwen also has feelings for you,' Morgana said quietly.
'Has she said something?' asked Arthur leaning across the table eager to hear what Gwen had said about him.
Gwen rolled her eyes, 'I'm not stupid enough to speak about us. It would get me in a lot of trouble.'
'She speaks of you all the time,' lied Morgana.
'What did she say?' asks Arthur.
'You're already arrogant enough. I will flatter you no further,' Morgana says picking up her goblet and sips her water. 'Poor girl,' Morgana said causing Arthur to look at her, 'I fear she doesn't know what to do with herself when she's around you,' Morgana sighs.
'Like you care,' snorts Merlin.
'She's not alone. I have such feelings for her, and yet I know nothing can ever come of them,' Arthur sighs.
'As Morgana's vision proved one day Gwen will be queen,' Merlin said.
'If it's Gwen who you desire, why do you deny yourself?' asked Morgana.
'Because Uther would never allow it,' Merlin said.
'Because she's a servant. My father would have me marry for the good of the kingdom,' Arthur said leaning back in his seat.
'Uther knows nothing of love,' Morgana said.
'And you do?' Arthur asked bitterly.
'You are the future king; you must set your own rules. Besides,' smiles Morgana, 'he doesn't have to find out.'
'He didn't until you meddled,' muttered Merlin.
'You should spend some time with Gwen. I know she'd like that,' Morgana said.
'She couldn't get Gwen to fall in with her plans so she used Arthur,' Merlin said.
'I realise that now,' Arthur said. 'I'm realising a lot of things now,' sighed Arthur.
In Gwen's house Gwen drops firewood into a basket.
'Arthur wishes to spend the day with me?' Gwen says.
'You could sound happier,' Arthur said sounding hurt.
'Oh Arthur,' Gwen said. 'Of course I wanted to spend the day with you but I was scared that Uther would find out and Morgana questioning me about us had put me on edge.'
'I don't blame you,' Merlin said.
'You never seem on edge around Morgana,' Gwen said. 'She worries you and you hate her but you don't seem to be frightened of what she will do to you.'
'It's because I know I'm more powerful than her,' Merlin said, 'and have many tricks up my sleeve!'
'I thought you'd be happy,' Merlin said confused.
'It isn't that simple. If anyone were to find out...What if someone sees us?' Gwen said.
'I'll take you to meet him outside the city. Arthur's willing to take the risk...if you are,' Merlin said.
Gwen ponders, unsure.
'Should I tell him you won't meet him?' Merlin asks.
'No,' Gwen said quickly.
Merlin puts his hands on Gwen shoulders, amused by her dithering, 'you forget, he's Prince Arthur, and that he can be a spoiled, arrogant brat.'
Arthur looked offended, 'was that supposed to convince her to meet me?'
'Well it worked,' Merlin said.
Gwen laughs, 'Merlin.'
Merlin too laughs, 'sorry,' Merlin says as Gwen continues her dilemma. 'You like him.'
'Yes,' Gwen admitted.
'He likes you,' Merlin continued.
'Mm-hmm,' Gwen murmurs.
'Isn't that all that really matters?' asked Merlin.
'If I had known it was Morgana's not Arthur's ideas I would have tried to talk you both out of it,' Merlin said.
'I suppose it is,' Gwen smiles.
Merlin turns to exit, 'then I will come back in the morning.'
Gwen follows him still looking nervous. Merlin pauses at the door and gives her a "relax" gesture grinning at his friend. At this Gwen smiles and Merlin leaves Gwen's house. Gwen half-twirls in anticipation.
Elyan snickered, 'Gwen.'
That night in Morgana's chambers Gwen folds down Morgana's bed. Morgana is playing with jewellery at her mirror. She smirks knowing her plan is in motion. Gwen silently approaches behind her.
'Will there be anything else?' Gwen asks.
'No, that'll be all,' Morgana dismissed.
Gwen walks towards the door and spins back around, 'I was hoping it might be possible to be relieved of my duties tomorrow.'
'Really? And why is that?' asked Morgana.
'I fear I'm sickening with a fever,' Gwen replied.
'Of course,' Morgana says.
'Does she know you know?' asked Merlin.
'I don't know,' admitted Gwen.
'Thank you,' Gwen smiles, curtsies, and leaves as Morgana smirks into her mirror.
The next day in Gwen's house Gwen looks herself over in the mirror where her hair is down. Merlin knocks and enters Gwen's house. Gwen comes out from behind the curtain and Merlin stares at her.
'What?' asked Gwen.
'You look lovely,' Merlin said with a smile.
'Don't sound so surprised,' Gwen laughed.
'I am,' laughed Elyan.
Gwen sighs in relief, 'oh.'
In the woods where Arthur has set up blankets and food for their picnic. Arthur gazes in a silver platter as he attempts fix his hair and eyebrows. Merlin and Gwen approach from behind, giggling at the prince who doesn't notice them.
'Shh,' Merlin hisses to Gwen placing a finger on his lips instructing Gwen to keep silent. Merlin cups his hands around his mouth, 'caw! Caw!'
'Merlin!' Hunith breaths a laugh in her voice. 'Sorry your highness.'
Arthur drops the platter suddenly as he turns around seeing his servant and Gwen standing behind him. Gwen and Merlin laugh at Arthur. Gwen and Merlin walk to the stream that separates them from Arthur.
'Guinevere, you look...' Arthur stares at her, speechless.
'I think he's trying to say you look nice,' Merlin stage whispers.
'Thank you Merlin,' Arthur said scowling.
Gwen chuckles and Arthur glares at his manservant, 'thank you, Merlin. That'll be all.'
'Have fun,' Merlin says.
Merlin leaves Arthur and Gwen. 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.
In the dining room Uther and Morgana are eating. Uther pours Morgana's drink at the dining table. Uther takes a drink from his silver goblet.
'Where does Uther think you are?' asked Gwaine.
'Hunting,' Merlin said.
'It's such a beautiful day, I was wondering if you might join me for a ride,' Morgana suggested.
'Which will just happen to go past us,' Arthur said darkly.
'I have council matters to attend to,' Uther replied.
'It's just, I get to spend so little time with you these days. Time together is...so precious to me,' Morgana said.
'You're right. We don't spend enough time together. The council can wait,' Uther decided and toasted Morgana.
At the picnic spot in the woods Gwen reaches to serve the plates. Arthur takes it from her.
'You are not here as a servant,' Arthur said begins to fill her plate and Gwen sits down.
'It feels different, doesn't it? Being away from Camelot?' Gwen said.
'I love Camelot more than I can say, but when I'm there,' Arthur said picking up a bunch of tomatoes, 'sometimes I feel I can hardly breathe everyone expects so much of me. Being here with you? I can be myself,' Arthur said.
'I unfortunately know that feeling,' sighed Merlin.
'I like that, you being yourself,' Gwen said grinning.
'Sometimes I dream of leaving Camelot,' Arthur said.
'Really?' asked Lancelot surprised.
'To run away from the pressure of your fate,' Merlin said. 'I understand.'
'Really? Where would you go?' asked Gwen laughing.
'I don't know. Somewhere where nobody knew who I was. I'd get some land and become a farmer,' Arthur said.
'Do you know how many dawn starts being a farmer means?' asked Merlin doubtfully. 'And you are not exactly a morning person! Never mind the fact that farming is backbreaking!'
'That's what you would be there for,' Arthur replied.
Gwen laughs, 'I can hardly see you toiling away in the fields all day.'
'It's not that funny,' Arthur said insulted.
'It really is,' Gwen said.
'Obviously I'd take Merlin with me; he can do all the hard work,' Arthur decreed.
'I'm sure he'd love that,' Gwen says laughing as Arthur hands her the plate. 'Thank you,' Gwen smiles.
In the countryside Morgana and Uther are out for a ride.
'I'm glad you persuaded me to come. We must do this again,' Uther said.
'I'd like that very much. Come on, I'll race you,' smiles Morgana.
The two of them kick their horse forcing them further into the woods.
'And Morgana leads Uther straight to you,' Merlin said bitterly.
At the picnic area Gwen and Arthur recline on pillows seemingly having finished eating.
'We should be heading back to Camelot soon,' Gwen said.
'We could stay a while longer. Don't know when we'll have the chance to do this again,' Arthur admitted.
'Perhaps when you become a farmer we can be together more often,' Gwen said amused.
'That's just a dream. I fear I will never leave Camelot... Stay still,' Arthur ordered.
'Is it bandits?' Gwen whispers.
Arthur leaning up slightly looking at something just behind Gwen. Arthur reaches toward his sword, picks up a glove and grabs at something over Gwen's head causing Gwen to gasp. She ducks under his arm and gasps.
'A wasp,' Arthur says.
Arthur grins as Gwen lets out a puff of laughter and kisses Arthur. A shot of horses' hooves is heard. Arthur and Gwen are startled out of their make out session when Morgana and Uther ride up and Gwen gasps.
'Uther is not going to be happy,' Leon frowned.
'Actually he wasn't too bad,' Arthur said. 'Until I said I loved Gwen.'
'Arthur!' Uther said shocked.
Arthur is alone in the council chambers where he paces. Uther enters with a blank expression, then guffaws as he approaches Arthur. Uther slaps Arthur on the shoulder. Perplexed, Arthur starts laughing too.
'I thought you'd be furious,' Arthur admits.
'I was young once, I'm more than familiar with the temptations of serving girls,' Uther admits.
'I didn't really need to know that,' grimaced Arthur.
'I'm sorry I kept it from you. I thought it for the best,' Arthur said.
'No serious harm has been done. I can't allow it to continue, obviously,' Uther said.
'What are you talking about?' asked Arthur.
'You can never see this girl again,' Uther said.
Hunith laughed, 'all that's going to do is make Arthur want her more.'
'You just said that no harm had been done,' Arthur pointed out.
'You've had your fun, now it must come to an end,' Uther said.
'He thinks you're just using her,' Merlin said quietly.
'Some nobles have been known to do so,' sighed Gaius. 'Promise young woman the world and then leave them when they need them the most.'
'What does it matter that Guinevere's a servant?' demanded Arthur.
'The survival of Camelot depends on forging an alliance through your marriage,' Uther said.
'There are other ways to make alliances,' Merlin said quietly.
'But I can't marry someone who I don't have feelings for,' Arthur said.
'Your first duty is to Camelot,' Uther said coldly.
'I care about her...' Arthur tried again.
'I cannot allow this. I forbid it,' Uther said.
'You can't forbid my feelings any more than I can. I won't deny them any longer, I love her. I love Guinevere,' Arthur said.
'You leave me no choice; she's banished from the city,' Uther decreed.
'You can't do that,' Arthur said.
'She has three days to leave. To return is on pain of death,' Uther said.
'She has nowhere to go! Her, her life is in Camelot,' Arthur said.
'You have caused this to happen, Arthur. My decision is final,' Uther said.
'Please, do not banish her. I give you my solemn word that I'll never see her again,' begged Arthur.
'You should have just agreed to never see her again,' Merlin said quietly, 'and then continued to meet with her in secret.'
'You have made it clear to me that you cannot control your feelings for this girl,' Uther said.
'No! I... Arthur grabs Uther's arm, pauses when he sees Uther's expression, and lets go.
'Uther will never change his mind,' Gaius said quietly.
'This is for your own good,' Uther says and leaves.
[15:26,
In Arthur's chambers Arthur storms into his chambers looking furious. Merlin follows after him.
'How did Uther know where to find you?' Merlin asks.
'You know that,' Arthur said bitterly.
'I was unaware that Morgana was involved in the plan,' Merlin said.
'I don't know. You were the only person who knew where we were,' Arthur said turning around to face his servant.
'And Morgana,' Arthur said darkly.
'I didn't,' Merlin pause, 'tell him.'
'Of course not,' Gwen agreed.
'Oh, maybe something you said,' Arthur paused, 'gave it away.'
'I didn't say anything,' Merlin said.
'You know Merlin,' Arthur said pointing at Merlin, 'you couldn't keep a secret if your life depended on it!' Arthur shouted.
Arthur winced, 'I can't believe I said that!'
'I know,' Merlin grinned. 'Trust me I can keep a secret and my life does depend on me keeping it!'
'I'll change that,' Arthur promised. 'I've harmed those that are like you. I'm sure I contributed to driving Morgana down the path she's on but I won't let others go down that path out of fear, desperation and loneliness. When we get back I'm going to begin to overturn the ban of magic especially the death sentence.'
'Thank you, Arthur,' Merlin said quietly eyes glistening. 'You know the other nobles and most commoners won't like this. They'll probably suspect you're enchanted.'
'I know,' Arthur said, 'but things can't continue the way they are.'
'You'd be surprised!' Merlin said drily.
'What's that supposed to mean?' demanded Arthur.
'I have magic,' Merlin said.
'Nothing,' Merlin lied and Arthur backs off. 'What are you going to do?'
'I don't know,' admitted Arthur turned towards the door as Morgana enters.
'That was when I realised that Morgana was involved,' murmured Merlin.
'Leave us, Merlin,' ordered Arthur.
Merlin looks unhappy and scowls but nonetheless does as he is told and walks towards the doors. As Merlin passes Morgana the witch turns to look at the warlock. They glare at each other on Merlin's way out. Merlin walks out the door and shuts it behind him.
'Arthur, I heard what happened. I can't tell you how sorry I am,' Morgana said.
'Sure you are,' Gwen said bitterly.
'It's all my fault,' Arthur said.
'No it's hers,' Merlin said bitterly.
'You're not to blame,' Morgana said walking up to Morgana.
'I… I can't accept that I may never see her again,' Arthur said.
'Uther has banished her. Surely you have no choice,' Morgana said.
'There are always choices,' Arthur said.
Gaius smiled, 'you sound like Gwen.'
'What will you do?' asked Morgana.
Arthur was silent for a minute looking lost, 'I'll leave with her,' Arthur decided.
Morgana frowned, 'you're leaving Camelot? You'd give up your rights to the throne!' Morgana said surprised.
'You wish,' snorted Arthur.
'One day we will return to Camelot together, and Guinevere will take her place on the throne beside me,' Arthur said.
'So that was why her plan changed,' sighed Gaius.
In Gwen's house Gwen packs for the move. Gwen picks up a pile of her clothes which she takes to a cart. She looks distraught. Merlin watches her pack. Gwen takes another pile of objects from the table.
'Where were you, Elyan?' frowned Lancelot.
'I didn't know,' admitted Elyan.
'Because of the nature of her banishment it was kept need to know to prevent gossiping,' explained Arthur.
'There is so much to do. I'll have to sell everything I can't take with me,' Gwen said taking something from the cupboard. 'And of course I need to find a new maid for Morgana.'
'That's not your job,' Arthur said quietly. 'That can be sorted by castle staff.'
'Gwen,' Merlin tried.
'Do you know anyone suitable?' Gwen asked turning to look at Merlin.
'Gwen, stop it. Where will you go?' Merlin asks.
'You are always welcome in Ealdor,' Hunith said quietly.
'Merlin said the same,' smiled Gwen.
Gwen slumps onto her bed and shakes her head, holding back tears, 'I don't know,' Gwen says and Merlin takes a seat on the bed beside her. 'I've spent my whole life in Camelot, it's all I know. Everything I care about is here. I have nothing else.'
'I'll think of something,' Merlin said causing Gwen to nod. 'I promise.'
That night Morgana walks into Arthur's chambers which were currently empty. Morgana glances around checking that she is not observed. Then Morgana removes the pillows and places a poultice under Arthur's pillow.
'And now Gwen is going down for sorcery,' Merlin said grimly.
'Worse,' Gaius said, 'for enchanting the king's son!'
In Uther's chambers Uther sits at the table. Despite the time there are few candles so the room looks very darks. Someone knocks on the door.
'Enter,' Uther calls and Morgana enters causing Uther to smile. 'Morgana.'
'I was concerned about you, My Lord. You weren't at dinner,' Morgana said striding across the room to pick up the large candle stand .
'Neither was I,' murmured Arthur.
'Argh, I had no appetite,' Uther replied.
'And I did?' demanded Arthur.
'You're worried about Arthur,' Morgana said.
'I do not understand his feelings for this girl,' Uther said as Morgana placed the candle stand on the table. 'She's a servant,' Uther said as Morgana began to light the candles.
'So?' demanded Merlin.
'It is strange that,' murmured Morgana.
'What?' Uther asked.
'Arthur tells me everything and he's never expressed any feelings for Gwen and suddenly he's declaring his love for her,' Morgana said as she continues to light the other candles.
'What are you saying, Morgana?' Uther asked.
'I'm sure there's an explanation,' Morgana said.
'That I'm not stupid enough to tell people that I'm in love with a servant!' Arthur pointed out.
'Speak your mind,' commanded Uther.
Morgana takes a seat beside Uther, 'you yourself have noticed Arthur's strange mood. It's almost as though he's...been enchanted,' suggested Morgana.
In Arthur's chambers the guards search the room while Arthur stands there his arms crossed. The guards go through his cupboard, flip through the pages of his books and take the covers off Arthur's bed. Merlin enters.
'What's going on?' Merlin asks.
'That's what I wanted to know,' Arthur said grimly.
'My father has ordered my chambers to be searched,' Arthur said.
'What for?' asks Merlin.
A guard empties a container full of metal utensils onto the table as behind them another guard takes the items out of Arthur's wardrobe.
'You think I have a girl hiding in there?!' demanded Arthur.
'I don't think that they're searching for girls,' laughed Gwaine.
A guard finds the poultice under Arthur's pillow. Arthur stares at the poultice in the guards hands in surprise as the guard behind him continues going through his things.
'What's that?' asked Arthur.
In the Council Chambers Gaius holds the poultice in his hands as he looks over the poultice.
'Is it magical?' asked Uther.
'I believe so. These are the symbols of the Old Religion,' Gaius replies.
'You've just determined Gwen's death,' scowled Arthur glaring at Gaius.
'I was unaware of that at the time,' Gaius said quietly.
'Could it be used to cast an enchantment?' asked Uther.
'Yes,' Merlin said.
'That would be one use of such a poultice,' Gaius agreed.
'This enchantment, could it cause someone to fall in love?' asked Uther.
'Did you not realise then?' asked Gwen.
'No because I knew Gwen wasn't a sorceress,' Gaius said quietly.
'It is entirely possible. May I ask where it was found?' asked Gaius.
Uther takes the poultice, 'It was discovered in Arthur's Chambers. Find Morgana's maid and bring her to me immediately.'
Morgana wears a very satisfied look. Gaius turns to look at Morgana.
Arthur is packing to run away with Gwen when Merlin runs into the room.
'What is it, Merlin?' Arthur asks.
'I just saw some guards dragging Gwen into the palace,' Merlin replied.
'Servants know everything,' snorted Leon.
'Yes we do,' agreed Merlin grinning.
Arthur runs out of the room, followed by Merlin.
In the council chambers the guards drop Gwen to her knees in front of Uther. Gwen's arms are bound by ropes behind her. She gasps as she is flung at Uther's feet. Uther holds poultice out in front of her.
'You recognise it?' Uther asks.
'I've never seen it before in my life,' Gwen replied glancing at the poultice.
'Really? I believe you planted it in Arthur's Chambers to enchant him,' Uther says hands the poultice back to a guard.
'Trust me you'd know if he was enchanted,' Merlin said. 'He'd be acting like he was when Vivian was around!'
'Oi!' Arthur said.
'What, it's true,' laughed Merlin.
'That's not true,' Gwen denied.
'Why else would Arthur fall in love with someone like you?' demands Uther.
'I don't expect someone like you to understand that,' Gwen replied.
Arthur winced, 'my father won't take that well.'
Uther slaps Gwen across the face with the back of his hand.
'My Lord! Gwen has always been a loyal and trusted servant!' Morgana spoke up.
'More loyal than you,' Arthur said bitterly.
'I have no doubt she's feigned loyalty while using her position to get close to my son,' Uther said standing up and going to Morgana.
The doors open and Arthur storms in with Merlin walking behind him, 'what is the meaning of this?!' Arthur demanded.
'This poultice was found under your pillow,' Uther said holding the poultice for Arthur to see. 'Some kind of love charm. You are under its spell,' Uther informed Arthur.
'That's ridiculous!' Arthur said.
'What would you know?' demanded Uther.
'He has a point,' Merlin said quietly. 'Those under enchantments are unaware until the enchantment is lifted!'
'Because I know how I feel. I'm not enchanted,' Arthur retorted.
'So can you tell me how it came to be in your room?' Uther demanded.
Uther raises the poultice once more for Arthur to see. Arthur looks alarmed at seeing it but it doesn't sway his opinion. Gwen gasps in anxiety and fear that Arthur would believe his father.
'I don't know, but I don't believe Guinevere put it there,' Arthur said.
'Until its spell is broken, I can't take anything you say as the truth. Her father consorted with sorcerers,' Uther said turning around and pointing at Gwen.
'He didn't know!' Elyan shouted.
'My father was a good and innocent man and you executed him!' Gwen said tears in her eyes.
'So you would seek your revenge by enchanting my son?!' shouted Uther pointing at Arthur.
'How would that be revenge?' asked Gwaine.
'No!' Gwen denied.
'My Lord, whatever this poultice is, I don't believe that Gwen is responsible for magic,' Gaius said.
'I don't care what you believe, Gaius. Arthur is under her spell. It's the only rational explanation for his behaviour!' Uther said.
'Only because you are too blinded to see what's right in front of you,' Hunith said sadly.
'Father, you have to see reason. Guinevere has done nothing wrong,' begged Arthur.
'She has been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. She will be burnt at the stake,' Uther declared as he turns away from Arthur.
'No!' declared Arthur and moves toward Uther.
'Restrain him!' ordered Uther.
The Guards grab Arthur as he runs forward. Gwen kneels on the floor looking in shock and horrified as she realises that she's going to be executed.
'You can't do this!' cried Arthur.
'My Lord! At least give Gwen a fair trial!' tried Gaius.
'I have all the evidence I need,' Uther said.
'I'm begging you! W-we will leave Camelot and never return! Just- just let us go! I relinquish my entitlement to the throne!' Arthur cries out.
Morgana looks for Gwen's reaction. Gwen gasps in surprise. Uther steps forward.
'My son would never do that. It is proof beyond doubt that you are enchanted,' Uther says.
'You do not know your son,' Hunith said sadly.
'I will never forgive you for this,' Arthur said.
'She will die. The enchantment will be broken. You'll see I was right,' placing a hand on Arthur's cheek and turning. 'Take her away,' Uther says and leaves.
'No! Guinevere!' Arthur shouts.
Arthur struggles to break free of the guards. Gwen begins to panic as guards pick her up off the floor. Gaius watches on sad and grim faced and the latest turn of events.
Arthur! No! Arthur, please...!' Gwen cries as the guards drag Gwen backwards toward the door.
'No!' Arthur cries.
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.
'I will always love you!' Arthur gasps out.
The guards pull Arthur further away from Gwen. The guards continue to drag Gwen out backwards. Arthur struggles against the guards in vain. Gwen spots Morgana smirking behind Arthur as she exits.
'That was when I realised it was Morgana.
In the courtyard a pyre is being built in the Square. Gwen watches it from the window of her cell in the dungeons. Arthur watches it from the window in his chambers when Merlin enters.
'We need to find a way to smuggle Gwen out of Camelot,' Merlin said.
'You never give up do you, Merlin,' smiled Gwen.
'You wouldn't all be here if I did,' replied Merlin.
'My father has me under constant watch. There are guards outside, below in the square. I can't watch her die, Merlin,' Arthur said thickly.
'If only Uther could see how he caused those he cared the most the suffer because of his hatred,' Hunith sighed thinking of Ygraine, Morgana and Arthur.
A guard leads Merlin to Gwen's cell as he carries a platter of food for Gwen. Another guard is patrolling the outside of the dungeon corridors. The guard opens the door to Gwen's cell to allow Merlin to bring Gwen her food. Gwen stands as Merlin enters.
'I thought you might be hungry,' Merlin said.
'I can't even think of eating. How is Arthur?' asked Gwen.
'How can you even think of me when you are about to be executed?' Arthur asks.
'Because I love you,' Gwen said simply.
'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,' Merlin said.
Gaius sighed, 'Uther won't change his mind.'
'If it wasn't for that old man…' trailed off Arthur.
Merlin grinned, 'you do owe him your life!'
Gwen turns around, '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?' Gwen begs.
'Don't give up,' Arthur begged Gwen.
'No, you can't give up hope. There is still time,' Merlin said.
'To do what?' Gwen asked.
'I need to find the person who really planted the poultice,' Merlin said in a low voice as he approaches Gwen. 'Do you have any idea who it might've been?' asked Merlin to which Gwen gives Merlin a dark look. 'What is it?' Merlin asks.
Gwen checks to see if guards are near and then faces Merlin, '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.'
'I knew about Morgana long before you did,' Merlin said quietly.
'No, I...' Merlin begins as footsteps approach, '...don't doubt sh...' Merlin stops as a guard opens the cell door.
'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,' Gwen said.
'It wasn't,' Arthur agreed.
Merlin looks at Gwen but with the guard at the door is unable to say anything further. Merlin leaves the cell and Gwen. The guard locks the cell after Merlin but Merlin glances back at his friend one more time.
In the physician's chambers Merlin and Gaius speak. Gaius is by his desk whilst Merlin paces the floor.
'Morgana? Uther'll never believe that Morgana's responsible,' Gaius says.
'We didn't – wouldn't – believe until the proof was irrefutable,' agreed Arthur. 'And even then we didn't want to believe. It broke us although I recovered.'
'Perhaps Arthur will talk him 'round,' suggested Merlin.
Arthur shook his head, 'not when I wouldn't believe that Morgana was evil and even if I did father would think it was because of the enchantment.'
'Uther thinks Arthur's enchanted. Anything that Arthur does is going to strengthen that belief. I fear that's not going to save Gwen,' Gaius said approaching Merlin.
'If we can't expose the true sorcerer, then we must invent one,' Merlin said.
Arthur groaned, 'of course,' he muttered. 'Who else? I knew he looked familiar. You are Dragoon!'
Merlin grinned but said seriously, 'I could not let Gwen die!'
'I understand,' Arthur said. 'Thank you.'
'Oh?' Gaius raised an eyebrow.
'What if a sorcerer was caught planting an identical poultice in Arthur's Chambers? Uther would've no choice but to release Gwen,' Merlin said running up the stairs into his room.
'And do you know of a sorcerer whose stupid enough to get caught doing such a thing?' Gaius called after him.
'Stupid is right,' snorted Arthur.
'It saved your queen,' pointed out Merlin.
'Me,' Merlin replied simply.
In Merlin's chambers Merlin crouches down pulls the magic book out from the floor boards under his bed. Merlin then sits down on the for once made bed. Gaius stands at the entrance to his bedroom watching Merlin carefully.
'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,' Merlin said rushing about gathering up ingredients.
'Is it possible to vanish into thin air?' asked Elyan.
'Of course, they can,' Arthur said. 'Nimueh did!'
'It is possible,' agreed Gaius.
'But difficult and power consuming and if you do it wrong you can be in for a world full of pain,' Merlin said. 'I haven't risked attempting to do so but I know the theory.'
'If Merlin could get a teacher I would help him but that's sadly not possible,' agreed Gaius.
'Well, no matter how you disguise yourself, I fear Arthur will recognise you,' warned Gaius.
'Not if I'm eighty years old,' Merlin said faking an old man voice.
'That's not how old men sound,' laughed Gwen.
'An aging spell? Merlin,' Gaius says as Merlin flips the next page, 'aging spells are notoriously difficult and unpredictable. If the spell doesn't hold, you'll be exposed,' warned Gaius.
'If I don't do something, Gwen's going to die, and I'm not going to let that happen,' Merlin said. 'Can you make a poultice identical to the one found in Arthur's Chambers?'
'Well, I believe so,' Gaius agreed.
'Okay,' Merlin says as he begins grinding magic dust. 'Miht dagan, beþecce me. Adeadaþ þisne gast min freondum ond min feondum,' Merlin speaks an incantation and sets the dust on fire.
'What does that mean?' asked Gwaine.
'Power of the days, conceal me. This spirit becomes torpid and callous to my friends and enemies,' Gaius translated.
Gaius finishes tying a poultice in the light of a candle. His jaw drops at the sight of Old Merlin exiting his chamber. Gaius stands up shocked at Merlin's appearance and old Merlin makes grunting noises. Gaius steps towards Merlin with the poultice in his hands.
'You know me better than anyone, Gaius,' Merlin said approaching his mentor. Do you recognise me?' asked Merlin.
Gaius inspects Merlin closely, 'there's something of you in the eyes. But perhaps that's just because I know it's you,' Gaius admitted.
'I thought he looked familiar,' agreed Arthur.
'Like someone you once knew but the passing of days meant that you could no longer recognise them,' smiled Gaius.
Merlin catches his reflection in the mirror and turns towards the mirror, 'I can't believe that one day I will actually look like this.'
'That must have been a surreal experience,' Lancelot murmured.
'It was,' Merlin agreed.
'Ooh. I ache, all over,' groaned Merlin.
'Ah. Well, now you know how I feel,' Gaius says handing Merlin the poultice. 'You'll be needing this.'
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.
'Show yourself. Who are you?' demands Merlin.
'I am...' Old Merlin spins around looking for a name.
'You didn't think of a name before you started out,' Percival shook his head.
'My priorities were to save Gwen,' Merlin said a little bit peeved. 'I was in a bit of a rush!'
Merlin catches sight of the Dragon on the Pendragon crest, 'Dragoon! The Great!'
'Is it you who planted the poultice in my bed?' demanded Arthur.
'You have caught me red-handed. I have no choice but to confess,' Merlin said.
'Did you not think that was a pit of an easy confession?' asked Merlin.
Arthur puts him back at sword point, 'an innocent girl almost died because of your actions.'
'I suppose your father will have to release her now that you've caught me,' Merlin said.
'Thankfully yes,' Gaius said.
'I should run you through where you stand,' threatened Arthur.
'I really wouldn't do that if I were you! Because if you do that...!' Merlin warned but stopped as he was earning a puzzled look for the future king. 'You will never learn of my plan.'
'What plan?' demanded Arthur.
'Exactly! That's why you can't run me through!' Merlin said.
Arthur lowers the sword, 'have we met?'
'I've only be serving your royal backside for four years,' snorted Merlin.
They look each other over before Merlin speaks, 'no, I don't believe so. I never forget a face.'
'Your eyes. We've met somewhere before,' Arthur says.
'Me? No!' Merlin looks for a heavy object. 'Flíeh grima! Merlin's spell knocks Arthur out with a helmet and he flees the scene.
'That hurt,' Arthur said darkly glaring at his servant.
Merlin grinned, 'couldn't let you recognise me!'
Arthur recovers, 'Guards!'
Merlin avoids the guards in the corridors, 'Edniwe min geoguð!' Merlin is unable to undo the aging spell and feels that his face is still old.
'He went this way!' Arthur called.
Merlin runs and hides behind another wall, 'edniwe min geoguð!' Merlin still can't undo the aging spell so peeks around the corner at Arthur.
'There he is!' Arthur shouts.
Merlin tries to run, but Arthur throws dagger that pins Merlin's sleeve to the door.
'Seize him,' Arthur orders and the guards grab Old Merlin.
In the council chambers Uther goes over documents with council members. Arthur enters the council chambers. The guards escorting the still elderly Merlin follow after the young prince causing Uther to look up.
'Father,' Arthur greets.
'Arthur,' Uther said.
'Has he forgotten you are supposed to be confined to your chambers?' Leon asked.
'Apparently,' Merlin said drily.
'As long as I stayed away from Gwen I don't think my father cared one way or another,' Arthur said bitterly.
The guards escort Old Merlin into the chamber. Gaius and Merlin's eyes meet as the guards drag Merlin in front of the queen. Gaius looks rightfully worried about his ward. Arthur stands in front of the king's table.
'Who is this?' asks Uther.
'So pleased to see me,' Merlin muttered.
'He is the sorcerer,' Arthur replies handing Uther the poultice Gaius made. 'I found him placing this under my pillow.'
'Is this true?' Uther demands.
'Even if I said no he wouldn't believe me,' Merlin said.
'Yes,' Merlin replied.
Morgana is confused.
'What did you hope to achieve with this enchantment?' asked Uther.
'If Arthur were to fall in love with a lowly serving girl, it would bring shame on Camelot,' Merlin replied.
Uther looks confused placing the poultice on the table, 'have I wronged you in some way, old man?'
'Yes,' Merlin said.
'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!' Merlin said.
'One of the few honest things you said as Dragoon, I'll bet,' Leon raised his eyebrows.
'Actually it allowed me to be more honest than as Merlin about my feelings,' Merlin admitted.
'Clearly,' Arthur said not looking happy.
'You will hold your tongue!' Arthur warned.
'And you. Oh, I have heard how you...mistreat your servants!' Merlin said causing Arthur to frown, 'They do everything for you, but do they ever get any thanks? No! You're a spoilt arrogant brat...!' Merlin shouts.
'Merlin,' Leon shook his head.
'Merlin,' scolded Hunith.
'I should have known,' Arthur shook his head. 'Who else would go on about how I treat servants,' snorted Arthur.
Gaius rolls his eyes at the cheek of his ward as Merlin starts spluttering and coughing, '...with the brains of a donkey and the face,' Merlin hiccoughed and then coughed, 'of a toad,' Merlin finishes and the guards pull Old Merlin away from Arthur.
Uther closed her eyes at the apparently elderly man's comments, 'this serving girl. She is your accomplice?' asked Uther.
'Even now he's still unwilling to believe that I am innocent despite the evidence to the contrary,' sighed Gwen. 'Even if the evidence is fake,' Gwen said after a pause.
'My father has always been stubborn,' Arthur admitted.
'And a tyrant,' Merlin put in which Arthur made a weird jerking motion but didn't actually say anything.
Merlin shakes his head, 'I enchanted her too. The girl is entirely innocent.'
'My Lord, he has confessed,' Arthur said.
Morgana is still confused and Uther sulks and picks up the poultice, 'release the girl.'
'You could sound happier about letting Gwen live,' Lancelot muttered darkly.
'Tomorrow at dawn you will take your place on the pyre. Take him away,' Uther ordered.
Uther flicks his hand in the direction of the dungeons and turns back to his papers on the table. Arthur and guards escort Merlin to the dungeons. Morgana and Gaius follow to watch them in the Phoenix Corridor.
'Do you know that man, Gaius?' asked Morgana.
'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,' Gaius said.
'Of course I am,' Morgana said giving a fake smile.
'She keeps her act up even in front of people who know?' asked Arthur.
'She can't know for sure that I know,' Gaius explained. 'Only suspects because of my relationship with Merlin!'
'Never mind someone who doesn't know could overhear their conversation,' added Merlin.
In the dungeons the guards shove Merlin into a cell. Merlin walks slowly into the cell as the guards close the cell behind the warlock. Merlin looks out at the pyre in the Square being patrolled by a guarrd.
Gaius walks down a corridor in the palace.
'Gaius?' called Arthur coming around the corner as Gaius stops and turns around to see the prince coming around the corner. Have you seen Merlin, I can't find him anywhere.'
'Don't say tavern,' groaned Merlin.
'I- I think he said he was going to spend the day in the tavern,' Gaius said.
'You can't think of a better excuse?' asked Merlin with a groan. 'All Arthur has to do is check at the tavern to disprove that!'
'Oh, did he? Well, we'll see about that,' Arthur replied looking furious and turning and going the opposite direction of Gaius who too turned and continued on his journey to the dungeons.
In the dungeons Gaius visits Merlin's cell. Gaius walks straight to Merlin's cells. Gaius glances around to make sure there are no guards anywhere around. Then Gaius grasps hold of the bars of Merlin's cells.
'It is far too easy for people who are not supposed to be in the dungeons to get to the dungeons,' Arthur said darkly.
'Merlin! What happened?' Gaius whispers.
Merlin turns around and cries, 'I can't break the spell, Gaius. It's too powerful.'
'You have to try again,' Gaius said.
'I have tried, it's no good. I'm stuck like this,' Merlin said.
'Not for long. Uther will have you burnt at the stake,' Gaius said.
Hunith winced, 'not helping.'
'There must be another way to break the spell,' Merlin said desperately.
Gaius glanced around to make sure he wasn't being overheard before he spoke, 'there's only one thing I can think of.'
'What is it?' Merlin said urgently.
'In the book of Gala there's an antidote that can undo such aging spells,' Gaius said.
'How long will it take to make this antidote?' asked Merlin.
'Longer than I fear you have. Buy as much time as you can,' Gaius instructed pointing a figure in Merlin's face.
'Which is why you caused so much trouble,' groaned Arthur.
'Yes,' laughed Merlin.
'How do I do that?' Merlin called after Gaius who was leaving.
Gaius stopped and turned back to Merlin looking down at him, 'Merlin, I've no idea.'
'A lot of help you are,' snorted Arthur.
In the physician's chambers Gaius is brewing the potion. Gaius is swirling a red coloured test tube trying to make it a certain colour. Gaius then checks potion against a colour wheel in the book at the blue section.
'I hate to say but I don't think that's the colour it's supposed to be,' Merlin said.
Gaius frowns and heats the test tube over a flame until it turns teal. Gaius then compares it once more with the colour wheel to find it is still the wrong shade of blue. Gaius then pours the contents of the test tube out. Gaius tries again but once again gets it wrong and sigh. Gaius is sleeping at his workbench.
'Hurry up, Gaius,' groaned Hunith.
In the main square a crowd is gathered around the pyre in the morning as the bell chimes. Merlin waits in his cell watching the pyre from the window of his cell. A guard opens the cell door and Arthur enters with guards.
'It's time,' Arthur said stepping into Merlin's cell.
The guards are about to grab hold of Merlin, 'wait!' Merlin cried causing the guards to let go of him.
'What is it?' Arthur asked.
'There are other crimes I wish to confess,' Merlin said turning around to face Arthur and giggles.
'Is that really the best way of delaying your execution you could think of?' Arthur shook his head. 'We can't execute you twice.'
'I know,' Merlin said. 'You already said!'
'What difference does it make? You're about to be burnt at the stake. We can't execute you twice,' Arthur pointed out.
In the physician's chambers Gaius shakes the test tube in his hand. Gaius then once again compares the contents in his test tube to the colour wheel. Gaius realises he has finished the anti-aging potion.
In the corridor Merlin is being escorted by guards with Arthur taking up the lead to the square. Gaius walks in the opposite direction with the finished potion in his hands when he sees Merlin, Arthur and the guards from behind. Gaius stops and looks at the blue potion in his hands.
'Hurry,' murmurs Hunith.
In the main square Merlin is escorted towards the pyre, accompanied by a drum roll. Arthur walks in front of Merlin and the guards with a hand on his sword. The people in the crowd watch him with disgust and hatred in their eyes.
'That was the worst part,' Merlin said, 'these were people I knew and were friends with… the way they looked at me.'
'They didn't know it was you,' Gaius said quietly.
'But if they had would they have looked at me any differently!?' Merlin demanded.
'They did think you were enchanting Arthur and I,' Gwen added.
'You have been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. In accordance with our law, you will be burned at the stake,' Uther says causing Morgana to start.
Merlin sighed sadly, 'she's still frightened of Uther after everything.'
'Let this serve as a lesson to all those who seek to destroy Camelot,' Uther said.
Merlin sees Gaius weave through the crowd. Merlin turns slightly to Gaius who shows him the antidote bottle. Merlin turns to run and lunge at Gaius.
'A curse upon you all!' Merlin cries and grabs the bottle as the crowds scream.
'Do people really think that's all that is needed for a curse?' asked Merlin.
'Not everyone understands magic like you do,' Gwen said.
'I will have my revenge!' Merlin cries as Uther watches unhappily and the guards pull Old Merlin towards the pyre.
'Are you alright, Gaius?' Arthur asked.
'I'm fine, Arthur,' Gaius assured the prince.
'Intend lieg, intend lieg!' Merlin muttered under his breath as he is dragged towards the pyre.
'What did that spell me?' asked Gwen.
'Fire, attack! Fire, attack!' Merlin replied shrugging. 'Exactly what I wanted the fire to do. Just a simple elemental spell. I was doing stuff like that without words long before then but I didn't want to reveal that I was able to do spells without words to the whole of Camelot – and Morgana.'
The pyre bursts into huge flames. Everyone pulls back and screams including Arthur who is still beside Arthur. Merlin runs of and pushes through crowd of screaming peasants. Arthur has made sure Gaius is okay and realised that Merlin is escaping.
'After him!' Arthur shouts.
Merlin runs down the corridor but can't get through the door at the end. Merlin glances around the corner to hear the sound of the guards not far away. He drinks the antidote as Arthur and guards approach at a run. Arthur turns the corner to find young Merlin with the red robe tucked behind his back.
'Merlin, where's the sorcerer?' Arthur demands.
'Right in front of you,' laughs Gwaine.
'Thank you, Gwaine,' Arthur said harshly.
'He w...' Merlin begins in a gravelly voice.
Gwen laughs, 'you're not Dragoon anymore.'
'Luckily Arthur just thought I was drunk,' Merlin said.
Merlin coughs and clears his throat, 'erm...he went that way.' Merlin points to the wall behind him.
Gwen laughs, 'you did act a bit.'
Arthur turns to the guards, 'sound the warning bell. Search the entire palace. I want him found. Are you telling me you let him run straight past you?'
'He was- he was- he was too fast for me,' Merlin said.
'Merlin,' Gaius laughed. 'He's an old man.'
'Well thanks to you Arthur thinks I'm drunk,' Merlin replied.
'He's a doddery old man. This is what happens when you spend all day in the tavern,' Arthur said.
'What?' Merlin demanded.
'Perhaps mucking out my horses will help sober you up,' Arthur said slapping Merlin on the cheek has Merlin continues to try and get used to his young again body and laughs in relief.
Gwaine shuddered, 'how does being surrounded by horrible smells sober anyone up!?
In Morgana's chambers Morgana enters while Gwen is gathering the dirty laundry. Gwen folds up a green dress of Morgana's and places it in the basket. The sound of heals on the floor echoes from out in the corridor. Gwen takes the basket just as Morgana walks in where they both stop to look at one another.
'Gwen,' Morgana says giving Gwen a fake hug. 'I can't tell you how relieved I am that you've been pardoned.'
'Sure you are,' Merlin said sarcastically.
Gwen does not look happy or like she believes Morgana. Gwen is still suspicious of her mistress. Morgana lets go of Gwen and pulls back putting on an upset look.
'I begged Uther to release you, but he wouldn't listen to reason,' Morgana says.
'I'm sure you did all you could,' Gwen said and they both nod. 'I...'
Gwen indicates the laundry basket. Morgana nods in apparent understanding and allows Gwen to exit her chambers with the laundry basket still in her hands. Still confused Morgana closes the dividing door.
'So Morgana didn't know that knew of her duplicity,' Arthur said quietly.
Gwen walks down an empty corridor with the laundry basket in her hands. Arthur pops out of an alcove and grabs Gwen. Arthur pulls Gwen also into the alcove causing Gwen to gasp.
Elyan scowled, 'did you have to pull her into the alcove? People might talk!'
'There was no one around,' Arthur replied.
'Servants are very good at remaining invisible,' laughed Merlin.
'Knowing you probably literally,' muttered Arthur.
'Sorry,' Arthur smiles. 'Didn't mean to startle you.'
'Honestly, Arthur what else did you think would happen when you jumped out, grabbed her and pulled her into an alcove?' asked Merlin. 'Of course, it didn't help that she had just had a confrontation with Morgana so was likely feeling paranoid anyway.'
'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,' Arthur warned.
'Or think that you are being enchanted again,' Gaius said quietly. 'Something that Morgana will encourage.'
'And are your feelings for me the result of an enchantment?' asked Gwen.
'Oh, we both know that's a lie,' Arthur said causing Gwen to smile. But...I think it would be safer for you if we let others continue to believe it.'
Gwen nods, 'what you said to your father...would you really have given up your place on the throne for me?'
'Still would,' Arthur said as Lancelot flinched.
'Still would,' Arthur replied.
Gwen's jaw drops, 'your place is here in Camelot.'
'My place is with you,' Arthur said gently.
'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,' Gwen said.
'I promise you that when I am King, things will be different. We can be together,' Arthur said.
Arthur sighed knowing that with how his father was doing it was likely it wouldn't be too long until he was king. Already both the people and the king were crying for Uther to abdicate. Arthur knew that even if he did not take his father's place considering how many meals Uther was refusing it probably wouldn't be too long until Uther passed away. Thanks to this thing Arthur know realised that Uther wasn't the man Arthur had thought he was but he was still his father and Arthur still loved him.
Gwen took his hand, 'it will be okay. Whatever happens know that I love you and we'll be together through it all.'
'I will count the days until then,' Gwen says softly.
Gwen places her right hand on Arthur's left cheek caressing it softly. Arthur and Gwen lean in to kiss. They hear the noise of a door opening nearby and break apart before they can actually kiss. Arthur looks disappointed at this outcome.
'I should go,' Gwen said and turns to leave.
Gwen hurries down the corridor once more to attend to Morgana's washing. Arthur watches Gwen leave as he steps back into hiding to avoid a guard that walks down the corridor.
In the physician's chambers Gaius is reading a book. Gaius looks up when he hears the door open. Merlin enters covered in horse dung. Merlin goes towards the table by the door presumably in search for food.
'Ah, Merlin. It's good to see you looking like your old self,' Gaius greeted.
'Or should that be young self,' laughed Merlin.
'I'm covered in horse dung,' Merlin pointed out turning to face Gaius as he took out a metal cup and jug of water.
'Precisely,' Gaius said.
Merlin gave Gaius a confused look as he pours himself a cup of water and take a drink of water, 'Arthur seems to think I spent the day in the tavern. I don't suppose you, er...you know where he got that idea?' Merlin asked.
'I really can't imagine,' Gaius replied.
'Of course not,' Merlin said looking disgruntled.
'Oh, and Merlin? You might want to take a bath,' Gaius suggested.
'You really should,' Arthur wrinkled his nose.