The Darkest Hour Part 2

'In a land of myth and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of a young man. His name: Merlin,' Kilgharrah says as Merlin comes into view and his eyes flash gold.

Merlin rolled his eyes, 'I get it,' Merlin said bitterly. 'Would you stop pressuring me.'

The next morning in the crumbing fortress Merlin lies limply against the fire pit. Lancelot tends to him trying to get Merlin to sit up but Merlin does not seem to be able to support his own weight. The other knights mill about.

'Thank goodness,' breathed Gwen.

Gaius frowned, 'you don't look well.'

'I wasn't,' agreed Emrys. 'I may have a problem with dying but it doesn't mean that I emerge unscathed.'

'We have to get him back to Gaius,' Arthur said.

Emrys shook his head, 'Gaius would be of no hope. Only powerful magic can heal me of mortal wounds. And not human magic!'

'If it remained would it kill you?' asked Gaius curiously.

Emrys shook his head eyes full of pain, 'no. Once several centuries ago I was unable to get treatment for two weeks where I spent unable to move, unable to eat, unable to speak, barely able to breathe but unable to move on. My magic tying me to this world. It was horrible. Finally I was found by Chrysí̱.'

'Chrysí̱?' asked Merlin frowning.

'They still have dragons in other parts of the world,' explained Emrys. 'Chrysí̱ is one of them.'

'And abandon the quest?' asked Leon.

'He saved my life, I won't let him die,' Arthur said.

'Sire, if we don't get to the Isle of the Blessed, hundreds more will perish,' Leon said.

Arthur looks back at Merlin as Lancelot approaches, 'let me take him.'

'Carrying a wounded man alone, it will take you two or three days to reach Camelot,' Arthur said.

'Not if I go through the Valley of the Fallen Kings,' Lancelot said.

'DON'T!' shouted Merlin. 'Nothing good ever happens there. It's cursed!'

'I'll bare it in mind in the future,' Lancelot said.

'I wasn't exactly in any position to be giving orders,' Emrys said, 'or warnings.'

'You cannot give up on the quest,' Lancelot said.

'Sire, he's right,' Leon agreed.

Arthur looks at Merlin heavily not looking happy at going on without Merlin but he nods. Merlin looks like he's about to cry. Sir Percival carries the paralysed Merlin to his horse. Arthur ties Merlin to the horse.

'This is my fault and I'm sorry,' Arthur said.

'No it's not,' Merlin said sharply. 'I chose to die for you and I would again.'

'I don't want you to!' Arthur said harshly.

'I know,' Merlin smiled sadly, 'and I don't want you to die!'

'Take me with you, please,' Merlin said.

'You would die, Merlin,' Arthur said.

'I think that's the idea,' Gwen said glaring at them both.

'I don't want him to die for me!' Arthur said angrily.

'I don't want you to die at all!' Merlin retorted angrily causing Emrys to flinch.

'But you don't understand. Please, Arthur,' Merlin begged.

'Do you ever do as you're told?' Arthur asked.

'No, you'd get bored,' laughed Merlin.

'I have to come with you,' Merlin said.

'Merlin!' Arthur said sharply.

'We need to leave,' Lancelot said.

Arthur squeezes Merlin's shoulder and sends him off with Lancelot, 'go.'

Arthur looks after them worriedly as they ride off. The knights left behind wander off in the opposite direction. Merlin is leaning awkwardly over his black horse as he is unable to sit up straight. Lancelot rides on ahead on his white horse.

Lancelot and Merlin ride back the way on the path under where the fortress is perched. Lancelot and Merlin ride through the fields. They ride through the woods and enter the Valley of the Fallen Kings where Merlin grunts as he tries to sit up.

That evening in the forest Arthur and the knights ride hard and fast toward the Isle of the Blessed. They walk to make camp. Arthur walks ahead pulling out his sword.

'Can you hear that?' asked Gwaine.

'Bees,' Leon said.

'You're not,' groaned Lancelot. 'Not again? You do remember what happened on patrol.'

'What can I say,' laughed Gwaine. 'I never learn.'

'Food,' said Gwaine as he approaches the honey tree and takes off a glove.

'Trying to get us killed?' Leon asks.

'We're riding to our death anyway,' Gwaine said as he puts his hand in the tree.

'Only me,' Lancelot said gravely.

Leon approaches a gloomy Arthur, 'it's good to give the horses a rest. You're quiet.'

'He is planning to die,' Merlin rolled his eyes. 'I think you can excuse him for being quiet.'

'Plus he's worried about you,' Gwen said softly. 'You were sent off injured.'

'That's what happens after three days of listening to Gwaine,' Arthur said.

'I resent that,' Gwaine said insulted.

'But it's true,' Merlin said.

Leon smiles and chuckles, 'you did the right thing, you know. Merlin couldn't have continued with us.'

'I should've saved him,' Arthur said.

Gwaine makes some grunting noises as he rushes away from the honey tree, swatting at the bees now attacking him. He runs off into the woods to escape the bees. Arthur rolls his eyes and Leon chuckles.

'Oh Gwaine,' Merlin shook his head.

'If anyone can get Merlin back to Camelot, Lancelot can,' Leon said.

That night in the Valley of the Fallen Kings Lancelot carries Merlin to a stream in the woods; he lays him next to it and covers Merlin with his Camelot cloak. Lancelot takes off his gloves to gather water from the stream and notices something about the water. He's stares in shock as Merlin puts his hand to the water and something shimmers through Merlin's skin.

'Lancelot. Lancelot,' drops of water rise up from the stream and speak to the knight.

'What the hell are they?' demanded Arthur.

'Villia,' Emrys said softly. 'Don't worry they're nature spirits completely harmless.'

'Oh,' Arthur said. 'Good.'

'Lancelot,' a woman's face appears in the drop of water. 'We bear you no harm. We wish only to help.'

'What are you?' Lancelot asks.

'We are Villia, spirits of the brooks and streams. The tear in the veil has upset the balance of the world. Good spirits as well as bad roam freely. But this perilous state cannot continue for long,' the Villia says.

'Prince Arthur is riding to the Isle of the Blessed. He intends to heal the veil,' Lancelot said.

'He will need help. From both of you,' Villia said.

'My friend is sick. I need to get him to Camelot,' Lancelot said.

'Merlin is stronger than you give him credit for. The young warlock has great power and a future that has been written since the dawn of time,' the Villia says.

'No pressure mate,' laughed Gwaine causing both Merlin's to scowl at him.

'Do not worry. Even now, my sisters begin to heal him,' Villia says and as Lancelot looks at Merlin he is glowing all over and Lancelot smiles. 'You are tired. You must rest.'

'I need to find shelter,' Lancelot said.

'You are safe here,' the Villia says.

'The Dorocha,' Lancelot tries.

'The Dorocha won't touch another spirit's domain,' Gaius assures the knight.

'We will stay with you and protect you through the night,' the Villia says and Lancelot smiles in awe as the water drops around him become tiny lights.

That night Arthur and the knights ride slowly through the woods. They stop and dismount as they reach the tunnels of Andor. They walk down the hill where the entrance to the tunnels are visible.

'By dawn we'll be on the other side of the mountains,' Arthur said.

'You can't be serious. These tunnels are crawling with Wildren,' Gwaine said.

'But Arthur's developed a handy little trick to avoiding Wildren,' Merlin said.

'These tunnels will take days off our journey,' Arthur said.

'If we make it out alive,' Gwaine said.

'We'll cover ourselves in Gaia berries,' Arthur said.

'It does work,' Emrys said smiling at the memories.

'Ha. Sounds great,' Gwaine said not sounding enthusiastic.

'It's your choice, Gwaine. Wildren or Dorocha,' Arthur said.

'Wildren,' Lancelot said nodding. 'Any day. The Wildren at least you can fight.'

'I know which I'd rather go for,' Elyan said.

'Me too,' agreed Leon.

'Any one would,' agreed Emrys shivering slightly. 'The Dorocha are not a natural part of the living world. They should never be released!'

The knights enter the tunnels. Just as they're about to enter the tunnels, Gwaine hears a Dorocha. Gwaine turns to see where it's coming from. It waits for him to turn his back and then launches at him. Percival tackles Gwaine out of the way and lands on top of the most drunken knight.

'Never knew you cared,' Gwaine said with a grin.

'He does,' Emrys said softly in a strange voice.

Percival makes an "Ugh, please" face. Arthur comes back out of the tunnels with a torch. The Dorocha comes back. Arthur pulls Percival up as Gwaine too gets up off of the ground.

'Quick!' Arthur shouts.

Arthur continues to wave the fire into the faces of the oncoming Dorocha. They retreat into the tunnels as the screeches of the Dorocha sound behind them.

'Why didn't the Dorocha follow you?' asked Merlin frowning.

Emrys shook his head frowning, 'there is no reason they shouldn't enter. Unless the tunnels are inhabited by another spirit or powerful magic.'

Merlin frowned, 'I didn't sense anything there.'

Emrys shook his head, 'to my knowledge nothing is there but tearing the veil released a lot of spirits into the World of Man so it is possible that some took up residence in the Tunnels. However, the others have not said anything about anything attacking them so if there were spirits they were peaceful ones. Or maybe the Dorocha just saw another target which did not have torches.'

'I hope not,' Arthur said gravely.

In the Tunnels of Andor the knights and Arthur carry on. Arthur and Leon carry torches whilst the other three knights have their swords drawn ready for attack.

'Remind me again why we're wearing this disgusting paste,' Percival said.

'Unless you want to be eaten by the Dorocha wear it,' Arthur said.

'Wildren are completely blind, they rely totally on their sense of smell. Gaia berries will mask our scent,' Arthur said sounding bored.

Gaius nodded, 'and as Wildren are carnivores they will not go near you.'

'What are the chances of us getting through here without seeing a Wildren?' Gwaine asked.

'None,' Merlin said simply.

'None,' Arthur said.

Gwaine stumbles across a skull he looks down and then around in alarm. He rushes from the back of the line to follow just behind Arthur. They hear a piggy squeal.

'Shh!' Arthur hissed.

Merlin rolled his eyes, 'obviously.'

Arthur and Leon toss their torches and stamp them out. They all hide behind a length of rock, then peak their heads over the ledge. Two Wildren approach sniffing. They duck down when one gets close.

'Let's just hope there are no more Dorocha,' Merlin said grimly.

'Even if there are,' Gaius said grimly, 'there is no point keeping their defence against the Dorocha if they don't survive the Wildren.'

'I know,' nodded Merlin.

'Keep still. Don't even breathe,' Arthur said.

The Wildren wanders off. Apparently Wildren are totally deaf, too. Gwaine smiles in relief. His smile fades when the others watch him wide-eyed. A Wildren sniffs him, pins him hard against the rock. Gwaine gets annoyed and kills it.

'Gwaine, you idiot,' Arthur said angrily.

'What?' demanded Gwaine. 'It's dead. It can't do any more harm!'

'They hunt in packs,' Gaius said grimly, 'which will sense their pack mate's death and be angry. Very angry.'

'Oh,' Gwaine said. 'I'll remember that the next time we crawl through Wildren infested tunnels.'

'Don't joke about that,' Merlin said grimly. 'With our luck we will have to crawl through Wildren infested tunnels once again!'

'You fool,' Arthur said.

'It's dead,' Gwaine pointed out.

'That one is, yes. They hunt in packs,' Arthur informed the rogue as they hear other piggy squeals.

'Run,' Elyan shouts and they bolt through the tunnels, chased by Wildren.

That night in Camelot's main square peasants desperately try to push through the city gate as guards close it on them. Gwen watches from a castle window as servants hurry down the stairs.

Arthur looked angry, 'I thought I said we would be offering refuge to our citizens!'

'Did you really think that Agravaine who is working for Morgana would do as you asked when he was left as Regent in your stead?' asked Merlin.

'No I suppose not,' sighed Arthur. 'I thought that at least the council would speak on their behalf.'

Merlin snorted, 'what those old men who care nothing for the people as long as they line their pockets!'

'We need more stretchers. And sheets, as many sheets as we can find,' Gaius orders a guard.

'Gaius!' Gwen shouts causing the physician to turn to him. 'The guards were under orders to shut the city gates at dusk.'

'Directly against my orders,' Arthur said anger tinting his tone.

'Who's orders?' demands Gaius.

'Lord Agravaine's,' Gwen replied.

In the council chambers Gaius opens the chamber doors and Gwen follows him in. Agravaine sits at the head of the table with the councilmen.

'He's enjoying being the leader a little too much,' Merlin said darkly. 'Arthur's not even dead and he's already taking his place!'

'Gaius. Have you come to join us?' Agravaine questions looking up.

'Why have you closed the city gates?' Gaius questions.

'Against my orders,' Arthur scowled.

'Yes, Arthur, we know,' Merlin rolled his eyes.

'We have limited resources, Gaius,' Agravaine glanced up slightly as Gwen frowns at him. 'As much as I would like to, we simply cannot feed and water the entire kingdom,' Agravaine said.

'It's only going to be for a few days,' Arthur said angrily.

'Surely the people have a right to be protected,' Gaius said.

'Yes, thank you Gaius,' agreed Arthur.

'I would be putting Camelot in danger. Starvation, disease. You of all people must understand, Gaius. The gates will remain shut until we are free of the evil that plagues us,' Agravaine said seeing no alternative, Gaius turns to leave. 'Now, gentlemen, where were we? reason to-'Agravaine begins but is interrupted by Gwen.

'My lords,' Gwen says and the councilmen stare at her.

'They couldn't have been expecting that,' laughed Merlin. 'A mere serving girl standing up to the nobles of the court.' Merlin's eyes then twinkled, 'even if she has caught the eyes of the Prince Regent.'

'Merlin!' Arthur and Gwen said together whilst Merlin and Gwaine laughed.

'May I be granted permission to address the court?' Gwen asked.

'Guinevere,' Agravaine smiles but he does not look happy as he makes an inviting gesture and she steps up to the table.

Gwen approaches the table that the council gathers at, 'Prince Arthur taught me long ago that every citizen of Camelot is important. He would never stand by and let them suffer,' Gwen said causing Geoffrey to look down.

'You've won over Geoffrey,' smiled Gaius.

'He would help them if he could, and we must do the same,' Gwen said.

Emrys smiled, 'I think that must have been when you began to win the acceptance of the Council who at this time hadn't liked the idea that a serving girl would be Queen.'

'I feel the pain as much as you,' Agravaine said holing up a consoling hand.

'Sure you do,' Merlin rolled his eyes.

'But we don't have a choice. If we keep letting people in, our food will run out within days,' Agravaine said.

'At which time the veil will be closed,' Arthur said frustrated.

'You are wrong,' Gwen shakes her head as the councilmen stare at Gwen.

'Perhaps you would enlighten me,' Agravaine said.

'Those outside the gates are landowners, farmers. For days the refugees have been bartering their wares with the townsfolk in return for the safety of their hearths. They bring with them far more than they take,' Gwen said.

Arthur beamed proudly, 'and this is why you will make a better Queen than all the princesses in Albion.'

Gwen flushed as Merlin and Gwaine roared with laughter.

'But how long before these wares run out?' Agravaine asked.

'Not before I close the veil,' Arthur said stubbornly.

'Three days ago, Prince Arthur embarked on a quest to rid us of these creatures. At worst, we have another three before he reaches his goal. Or do you think he will fail?' Gwen asks quietly.

'Of course not,' Agravaine said quickly and smiling but not looking happy.

'Sire, she's right,' Geoffrey said.

'Very well,' Agravaine nods. Reopen the gates.'

'You were brilliant Guinevere,' smiled Arthur.

Gwen curtsies and Agravaine nods back at her with a smile fixed firmly on his face but not reaching his eyes. Gwen then leaves the council chambers. When Gwen is gone the smile slips off of Agravaine's face.

'Someone's not happy,' laughs Gwaine.

The next morning Lancelot wakes up. Lancelot glances around to find Merlin gone.

'Merlin,' Lancelot murmurs. 'Merlin?!' shouts Lancelot.

'Shh!' Merlin hisses.

Lancelot turns to see Merlin standing on a couple of rocks in the stream with a stick and a couple of fish on a string. Lancelot watches Merlin spearing the water with the stick. Merlin stops and holds up the fish.

'I thought you didn't like hunting,' Arthur said.

'I don't like hunting for pleasure,' corrected Merlin.

'Breakfast,' Merlin said striding out of the river with two fish on his stick.

'Merlin, what...? Why are you...?' Lancelot asks.

'What?' asked Merlin.

'You're meant to be...dying,' Lancelot said.

Emrys' smile becomes very fixed all of a second, 'I don't do that.'

'Sorry. Here,' Merlin says as he hands Lancelot the spearing stick.

'What's that for?' asked Lancelot.

'You look like you're going to fall over,' Merlin replied.

'Because you're impossible,' Lancelot said.

Merlin gave an impish grin, 'that I am.'

Lancelot swings the stick at Merlin and Merlin ducks, 'yeah, not as quick as Arthur.'

'Oh yeah?' asked Lancelot.

'Come on. We need to catch up with the others,' Merlin said and he takes the stick and starts walking toward the horses.

'How are you going to do that?' asked Arthur.

Emrys gave the same impish grin as Merlin had earlier reminding everyone that as old as Emrys as he was still Merlin, 'by dragon of course,' Merlin grinned.

'Of course,' Arthur said shaking his head. 'How else. Merlin will you never change.'

'Never,' Merlin said grinning impishly.

'No. You're going back to Camelot,' Lancelot said not moving from the side of the river as Merlin walks on.

'That's not going to work,' laughed Merlin.

'You might be,' Merlin said.

'Merlin,' Lancelot said.

'Say hello to Gaius for me!' Merlin said

'Merlin!' Lancelot shouts.

Merlin stops and turns around as Lancelot picks up his cloak and sword.

'Arthur can't finish this without us,' Merlin said gravely.

'Arthur's right about you. You don't ever do as you're told,' Lancelot said walking over to Merlin.

'No he doesn't,' agreed Arthur.

'You'd be dead if I didn't,' grinned Merlin.

'Nope,' agreed Merlin his lip quirking at the remark.

At another stream in Albion Arthur and the knights wash off the Gaia berries in the stream.

'They need to rest, sire,' Leon said washing his hands.

'How many days has it been since you've last slept?' sighed Gaius.

'We can't exactly sleep at night,' Arthur pointed out, 'with the Dorocha about.'

'No but your bodies need the rest,' Gaius said.

'Even Gwaine's gone quiet,' Leon said.

'Really?' asked Merlin shocked.

'I don't think I've ever heard Gwaine be quiet,' Elyan said.

'Apart from when he's sleeping,' Leon said laughing.

'He's not even quiet then,' Percival laughed.

'What?' asked Gwaine incensed.

'You talk in your sleep,' snickered Merlin.

'I certainly do not,' Gwaine said.

'You do,' Leon said amused.

'Boys,' Gwen said when Gwaine began to argue.

Arthur washes his face, 'sounds like a good reason to keep going,' Arthur said taking his sword out and standing up.

Agravaine rides through the woods on a dark brown steed to Morgana's hovel. Morgana broods in a chair by the fire.

'My lady?' Agravaine calls from outside and enters closing the door behind him.

'What news of the mighty Camelot?' Morgana asks.

'As we planned,' Agravaine said taking off his gloves. 'The city's falling to rack and ruin.'

'And Arthur?' Morgana questions.

'Last we heard, he'd made it past Daelbeth,' Agravaine says warming his hands over the fire.

'Will we never be rid of him?' Morgana demands sinking back in her chair.

Arthur flinched unable to forget the girl that had been once his sister and friend and confident. Now she was bent on revenge for his and his father's crimes. How Arthur wished Morgana had confided in him. Wished that he had been able to help to show her he would have never turned her over to Uther.

'Patience, my lady,' Agravaine said causing Morgana to roll her eyes. 'Even if he makes it to the Isle, the outcome will still be the same.'

'Then what brings you here so early?' Morgana asks as she watches Agravaine.

'Gwen,' murmurs Merlin.

'What?' asked Arthur a protective arm going over Gwen's shoulder.

'It's the only thing that has changed since their last visit,' Merlin said. 'Unless he's just giving an update on Arthur's progress.'

'Something's wrong,' Morgana said.

'A minor irritant,' Agravaine said walking around to the back of Morgana's chair to rest his hands on her chair. 'Guinevere. She takes it upon herself to speak out against me.'

'She's dangerous,' Morgana said.

'Well, she's a servant. A spirited one, perhaps, but a servant nonetheless,' Agravaine said.

'No, you're wrong,' Morgana stands up, provoked. 'I have dreamt the future and, in it, that servant sits upon my throne,' Morgana said standing up and turning to face Agravaine. 'I would rather drown in my own blood than see that day.'

'Then we must make sure it never comes,' Agravaine said.

'I couldn't agree more,' Morgana smirks. 'We must make sure she never sees another dawn.'

'Gwen!' cried Arthur.

In Uther's chambers Gwen tends to Uther helping him to sit up.

'Where's Arthur?' Uther asks.

'I am unsure,' Gwen replied.

'Where is he?' Uther asks again.

'The prince is on a hunting trip, sire,' Gwen replied.

'When will he be back?' asks Uther.

'In a few days. Is there something you need?' asked Uther.

Uther shakes his head in his dreamy state. Gwen leaves Uther and begins to walk to the door. Gwen finds Agravaine leaning on Uther's table. Gwen stops as Agravaine stands to full height upon her approach.

'Your devotion to the king is most impressive. There is something I would like to discuss. I wish to apologize. Yesterday I feel I let the prince down. I am grateful that you spoke out,' Agravaine said.

'You weren't,' Gaius said.

'I did not mean to be discourteous, my lord,' Gwen said.

'Well, you weren't. Not in the least,' Agravaine said smiling. 'Gwen, if you would permit, I would be grateful to seek your advice,' Agravaine said causing Gwen's jaw to drops.

'He's lying,' Arthur said flatly.

'Really?' Merlin said sarcastically. 'I would never have figured that out myself.'

'Merlin,' growled Arthur.

'Shut up,' laughed Merlin.

'Exactly,' grinned Arthur.

'You understand the people,' Agravaine said.

'I am not sure I-'began Gwen.

'If nothing else, I know that you will be honest with me,' Agravaine said smiling and causing Gwen to smile at the truth of that statement.

'Unlike Some people,' Merlin rolled his eyes.

'It's not appropriate to talk now. Perhaps...this evening. You could come to my chambers,' Agravaine said as Gwen starts to protest. 'Please, Guinevere, these are dark times. I'm gonna need help if I'm to guide us through them.'

'Very well,' Gwen agreed nodding.

Agravaine smiles, 'thank you.

Gwen smiles back at Agravaine and let's out a huff of disbelieving laughter. Gaius enters glancing around at Agravaine as the lord exits. Gaius approaches Gwen.

'Is everything all right?' asked Gaius.

'Yes. He wishes to speak with me later. I think he means to seek my council,' Gwen said.

'Or assassinate you,' Merlin shook his head.

Gaius nods and walks around Gwen to tend to the king. Gwen smiles and she exits. Gaius turns and watches Gwen leave with pensive concern.

'Do you suspect him?' asked Arthur.

'No,' Gaius said. 'I was probably just surprised that one as traditionalist as your uncle would be willing to listen to a serving girl!'

Merlin and Lancelot ride up to a lodge in the woods. Merlin and Lancelot dismount. They enter to find animals hanging from the ceiling. Lancelot has his sword drawn whilst Merlin follows behind the knight.

'Hello?' Lancelot calls.

Lancelot sweeps back the cloth to find the hunter sitting at his table. They find that the hunter has like the other victims of the Dorocha been frosted over. Lancelot glances to a grave Merlin. They lie him down and cover him with a blanket.

'The Dorocha,' Merlin said gravely.

'We can't stay here,' Merlin said quietly.

'It's safe as anywhere,' Arthur said.

'Yeah,' Merlin said, 'but do you really want to sleep all night next to a dead body,' Merlin grimaced.

'Don't be such a girl,' Arthur said.

'There's nowhere else, Merlin,' Lancelot shakes his head and turns away from the body. 'We'll make a fire,' Lancelot said walking back through the cloth curtain and taking off his cloak. 'It will keep us safe and dry. And there's more than enough fuel to get us through the night,' Lancelot said picking up a log.

'Yep. Bel onbryne,' Merlin said and starts a fire in the grate. 'I'm not entirely useless, you know.'

'I've never thought you were,' Lancelot said quietly.

Merlin smiles, 'I know.'

That evening the guards patrol Camelot with torches in their hands. Morgana magically opens a gate outside Camelot and carries a torch as she climbs the stairs into the city. Morgana stops when she hears guards outside.

'Get the other side,' a distant guard says.

'Yes, sir,' the other guard says.

Morgana finishes climbing up the stairs. Morgana then continues down a dark corridor.

'Halt,' a guard says.

'She's going to kill him,' Merlin said quietly remembering the mess after the Crystal Cave had happened.

Morgana stops at the guard's word. Morgana then glares forward her eyes glowing gold as she is about to do magic. Morgana then throws the guard to his death without speaking or turning around. Morgana smiles and moves on.

'I thought Merlin was the only one who could do controlled magic without words,' Arthur frowned.

'She must be incanting in her head,' Merlin said.

'It takes a lot of concentration for magic users but it is possible,' Emrys said. 'And power can often compensate for concentrate. And Morgana's not exactly a weaker sorceress.'

In Agravaine's chambers Gwen sits at the table as Agravaine pours her a glass of wine.

'Don't drink it!' Merlin said urgently.

'Do you think it's poisoned?' Arthur asks sharply.

'I don't know,' Merlin said. 'Drugged possibly as it seems that whatever their plan is Morgana is the one to carry it out.'

'But do the people feel safe?' Agravaine asks but Gwen remains silent.

'Of course not,' Merlin snorted. 'Not with the attacks every night!'

'You can speak honestly,' Agravaine says coming around to stand behind Gwen.

'No, they do not,' Gwen said.

'Go on,' Arthur said.

'They're frightened. Night after night, they've seen their friends, their parents, their children all snatched cruelly from them and they don't know who will be next,' Gwen said as Agravaine takes a drink.

Agravaine turns slightly to Gwen, 'what can I do to reassure them?'

Gwen looks down at first then looks back up at Agravaine, 'show courage. Shutting the gates last night told them you were as terrified as they were. It's like a horse and its rider. If the people sense your fear, they will not trust you.'

'Gwen, you do realise that you just called the people horses,' Merlin said amused.

'I am grateful for your advice,' Agravaine says as he stands behind her and places his hands on her chair back.

'Of course you are,' snorts Arthur.

'You have a wise head on your shoulders, Guinevere,' Agravaine said.

Agravaine leans forward and rests his arms on the back of her chair and Gwen starts getting creeped out. Agravaine reaches his fingers slightly forward as if to touch her. Then thinks better of it and takes his arms off the chair back. 'I've kept you long enough.'

'You have,' agreed Arthur.

Gwen stands eagerly, 'and I must see to the king.'

'Don't concern yourself with that. I will ensure he's well looked after,' Agravaine said and precedes her to the door and opens it for her. 'It has been a long day. I'll have my guards walk you safely home.'

'Why don't I trust those guards,' Arthur said.

'Because you know where his loyalties lie,' Merlin said, 'and that there is a planned murder attempt.'

The guards appear outside the door.

'Thank you,' Gwen says.

Gwen curtsies and he steps aside to let her exit. Agravaine closes the door behind Gwen with a brooding look.

In the streets of Camelot the guards carry torches as they escort Gwen home. Gwen follows the guards through the streets. Morgana watches them from above.

'Hleap on baec,' Morgana says.

Gwen frowned, 'what spell did Morgana use?'

'Leap on your back,' Merlin said rolling his eyes. 'I'm not sure why she wasn't able to do without words that time.'

'Probably because there were three of them,' Emrys said. 'Taking more focus than she had. Either that or she was more emotional about Gwen than a random guard so her anger and hatred messed her concentration making it necessary to use words.'

Morgana raises her arm and throws Gwen and the guards backwards. Gwen screams as she is thrown backwards. The knights' helmet falls off and rolls on the ground. Morgana smirks at her unconscious victims.

'GWEN!' cried out Arthur and Elyan.

'I'm fine,' Gwen said. 'This hasn't happened yet.'

In the woods Arthur and the knights sit and stand guard around a campfire. Percival walks around the campfire with a large armful of firewood. Elyan approached Arthur on watch.

'Seen anything?' Elyan asks and Arthur shakes his head.

'Well no news is good news,' Emrys said cheerfully.

Arthur nods, 'do you know what we're going to face on the Isle of the Blessed?' Elyan asks and Arthur nods. 'Do you want to tell me?'

'The burden's mine and mine to bear alone,' Arthur said shaking his head.

Merlin rolled his eyes, 'Arthur's not great at the whole talking about his feelings thing.'

'Look around, Arthur,' Elyan said and motions for Arthur to look at the nights around the campfire. 'We would fight a thousand armies with our bare hands for you,' Elyan said as Percival chucks Gwaine a sword who catches it easily. 'We're never alone. We stand together. Come on, I'll take over, Elyan said and he reaches his hand out to take Arthur's torch. 'You need some rest.'

Arthur hands him the torch and puts a hand on Elyan's shoulder, 'thank you.'

Arthur nods and then pats Elyan on the back as he walks toward the campfire. Then they all hear Dorocha and gather close the fire.

Gaius enters Uther's chambers to find Uther asleep on top of the bed sheets and no candles lit. Gaius looks around with a frown on his face as he approaches Uther's bed.

'Gwen?' Gaius calls.

'Gaius knows something's wrong,' Merlin breathed a sigh of relief.

'Let's just hope Gaius finds them before the Dorocha,' Arthur said grimly.

In the streets of Camelot Gaius walks down the street carrying a torch. Gaius turns around when he hears the sound of the Dorocha in the distance behind him.

'Gwen?' Gaius calls.

Gaius turns sharply when he hears a Dorocha as he approaches Gwen's house and finds a frozen-faced guard. Then he sees Gwen lying near the guard. Gaius checks Gwen's face; she's still warm. A Dorocha charges Gaius from behind, but he fends it off with the torch.

'That was too close,' whispered Arthur.

In the hunter's lodge Merlin is leaning on a post whilst Lancelot pours himself a drink.

'You don't have to continue on this journey with me, you know,' Merlin said.

'Try and stop me,' Lancelot said.

Lancelot chuckles, 'try and stop me,' Lancelot leans forward and pours Merlin another drink.

'Why? Because you're a knight, you feel honour bound?' Merlin asks.

'You wouldn't understand. It doesn't make any sense to me either,' Lancelot said.

'Me,' Gwen said sadly. 'Oh Lancelot I shouldn't have put you in that position.'

'Gwen?' Merlin asks taking a drink.

'I made her a vow I would keep Arthur safe,' Lancelot said.

'That's my job,' Merlin said.

'You don't have to worry. I'll keep him safe,' promised Merlin.

'I made a vow, Merlin,' Lancelot said.

'Do you still think about her?' Merlin asks.

'No. Arthur's...a better man than me,' Lancelot said.

'I'm sorry,' Merlin said.

'Why? He loves her and...she's happy,' Lancelot said.

'You truly are the noblest of all the knights,' Merlin smiled sadly.

In the physician's chambers Gaius tends to Gwen's head wound as she lies on a sickbed. Gaius holds a damp cloth to Gwen's head.

'I remember the guards walking me to my door. And then...nothing,' Gwen said.

'Just a surface wound. You were very lucky,' Gaius said as he places the cloth back on Gwen's head.

'Everyone talks about the coldness, but I don't feel cold at all,' Gwen said.

'They are,' Emrys said gravely shivering slightly. 'Colder than you can ever imagine.'

'You weren't attacked by the Dorocha, Gwen,' Gaius said shaking his head slightly.

'Thank the gods,' murmured Arthur.

'Then what? Gaius?' asked Gwen frowning.

'Morgana,' Lancelot said grimly.

'I fear someone wanted to do you harm,' Gwen said.

'Really?' Merlin said sarcastically. 'She couldn't have figured that out herself?'

'Why?' asked Gwen.

'Because of me,' Arthur said softly.

'I don't know,' Gaius admitted.

'Well, surely if they did, they'd have done a better job,' Gwen said.

'Maybe. But cold-blooded murder is suspicious. Better to leave you to the Dorocha,' Gaius said placing the cloth in a bowel and picking up a stick with a cloth on the end to dab Gwen's forehead with.

'She would have succeeded had it not been for Gaius,' Arthur said grimly.

In the hunter's lodge the wind rustles the curtains as Merlin and Lancelot sleep. Merlin stirs slightly in his sleep as the candles and fire are all blown out as Merlin and Lancelot sleep. Merlin senses a Dorocha slip by and wakes up. Merlin sits up suddenly and looks around in time to see the Dorocha charges.

Arthur groaned, 'get out of there.'

'I don't think outside will be any better,' Merlin pointed out. 'What we need is more fire. Let's just be glad I sensed them before they killed Lancelot and put me back in that state again.'

'Lancelot!' Merlin shouts.

Merlin throws the last of his alcohol into the dying grate fire and it bursts into flames in front of the Dorocha allowing Merlin and Lancelot struggle with the door and then run outside into the pitch dark. Merlin and Lancelot run through the woods.

'O drakon, e male so ftengometta tesd 'hup' anankes!' Merlin roars in dragon tongue.

The Dorocha chases them through the dark woods until a fireball shoots out of the sky and gets rid of them. Lancelot draws his sword, stunned by the appearance of the dragon. Kilgharrah flames another Dorocha and lands in front of them in a clearing. Lancelot steps forward to strike the dragon, but Merlin holds out a hand to stop him.

'He won't hurt you,' Merlin reassured Lancelot.

'It's alright. It's alright.,' Merlin says as he looks up at Kilgharrah and gives him a little bow. 'Thank you.'

'Who is your friend?' Kilgharrah says angrily.

'Merlin, why doesn't he like me?' asked Lancelot.

'Not a clue,' admitted Merlin.

'I'm Lancelot,' Lancelot said.

'Of course. Sir Lancelot, the bravest and most noble of them all,' Kilgharrah says.

'He seems to change his tune very quickly,' Arthur says darkly remembering the time when the dragon was their enemy.

'I'm not sure that's true,' Lancelot said.

'We shall see. For now, there are more pressing things at hand. The Dorocha cannot be allowed to remain in this world. The sundered veil must be restored,' Merlin said.

'We're on our way to the Isle of the Blessed to help Arthur heal it,' Lancelot said.

'Indeed. But at what price?' Kilgharrah asks.

'He won't want Arthur or I to sacrifice ourselves,' Merlin said quietly.

'I know that the spirit world demands a sacrifice,' Merlin said.

'It demands nothing. It is the Cailleach, the gatekeeper to the spirit world who asks such a price,' Kilgharrah says.

'And there is no other way?' asked Merlin.

'There is not,' Kilgharrah agrees.

'Arthur intends to sacrifice himself to heal the veil. It is my destiny to protect him; you taught me that,' Merlin said.

'Merlin, you must not do this,' Kilgharrah said.

'You won't talk him out of it,' sighed Gwen sadly. 'He's as stubborn and loyal as you are once he's got something in his head he won't change his mind.'

'The only way to stop him is if someone else does it for him,' Lancelot realised.

'Then I have no choice. I must take his place,' Merlin said.

'From the moment I met you, I saw something that was invisible. Now it is there for all to see,' Kilgharrah said.

'A lot of what you see, old friend, is what you taught me,' Merlin replied.

'It will be an empty world without you, young warlock,' Kilgharrah said as he gives Merlin an affectionate look and then flies off.

The next morning Merlin and Lancelot ride through the woods. They slow down to a canter.

'When we get to the Isle of the Blessed, do you really intend to sacrifice yourself?' Lancelot asked.

'Of course he is,' Arthur glared at his friend.

'What do you want me to say?' Merlin asks.

'I look at you and I wonder about myself. Would I knowingly give up my life for something?' Lancelot asks.

Emrys sighs.

'You have to have a reason. Something you care about. Something that's more important than anything,' Merlin said.

Merlin nudges his horse into a gallop overtaking Lancelot whose horse whinnies. Lancelot thinks for a moment before following. They stop at the top of a hill and find smoke rising from another abandoned fortress ahead.

'Looks like someone beat us to it,' Lancelot said.

'Bandits?' Merlin asks as Lancelot tilts his head as a "Maybe." 'Think we'll make it before nightfall?'

'You better,' Arthur said.

'I know,' nodded Merlin nodded. 'I doubt that we could survive the night out in the woods.'

'Unless you called your dragon,' laughed Gwaine.

'There's only one way to find out. Ya!' Lancelot says and they gallop towards the fortress.

At the fortress Arthur and the knights sit around a campfire. Gwaine takes off his boots with a relieved groan and then proceeds to take off his socks. Elyan and Leon gag at the smell.

'Has something died?' Elyan asks.

'Why am I always the butt?' Gwaine asks chucking a boot on the ground.

'Because you make it so easy,' suggested Merlin with a laugh.

'Can't think,' Leon said.

Leon and Elyan pick up their swords which had previously been on the ground. They get up and join Percival and Arthur on the other side of the campfire.

'Pick on Percival,' Gwaine said.

'Why me?' Percival asked.

'He washes,' Elyan said.

'And I don't?' Gwaine asked.

'And he doesn't set fire to his socks,' Leon added gesturing to the fire.

'When did that happen?' asked Merlin laughing.

'Right now,' Emrys said eyes twinkling slightly.

'Ugh! No!' Gwaine snatches his socks from the fire and tries to put them out as the other knights grin.

'Quiet,' Arthur said suddenly.

They hear a gate open in the distance as Gwaine looks down at his sword. The knights jump to their feet and draw their swords, including barefoot Gwaine who leaves his scabbard behind. Lancelot approaches with his hand on his sword. The knights hold their defensive stance until Lancelot steps into the light.

'Lancelot?' Arthur frowns without putting his sword down. 'How's Merlin?' Arthur asks.

'I'm always alright,' Merlin said quietly.

'Bad news. He's still alive,' Lancelot grins and steps aside as Merlin enters and Arthur chuckles in relief.

'Lancelot,' Gaius shook his head.

Arthur laughs in relief, 'Merlin!'

'Did you two plan that?' Arthur demanded angrily.

'Must have,' shrugged Merlin whilst Emrys let out a bellowing laugh.

'That was cruel,' Gwen scolded.

Merlin grins at Arthur. Elyan and Percival step forward to hugs Merlin. Leon pats Merlin on the back. Percival hugs Lancelot as a beaming Gwaine hugs Merlin. Merlin pats the knight on the back. Arthur shakes hands with Lancelot. Merlin grins at Arthur and gives Merlin a shoulder squeeze.

'Good to see you, Merlin,' Arthur said.

'Yeah. It's good to see you too,' Merlin said nodding and Arthur places a hand on Merlin's head and pulls him away.

Merlin and Arthur eat as they lounge against a log by the fire while the others sleep.

'It's going to be fine. Everything will be alright,' Merlin nods.

Emrys sighs sadly.

'I'm just tired,' Arthur shakes his head.

'You don't have to sacrifice yourself,' Merlin said.

'To save my people,' Arthur said.

'I will take your place,' Merlin said.

'You two,' Gwen said exasperated.

Arthur shakes head, 'Merlin.'

'You won't convince him otherwise,' Gwaine shook his head. 'I've never met anyone as stupidly loyal as Merlin here.'

'What is the life of a servant compared to that of a prince?' asked Merlin.

'Every man – or woman – should have equal importance,' Arthur said. 'You taught me that.'

'Well, a good servant's hard to come by,' Arthur said.

'You won't need a servant if you're dead!' Merlin said exasperated.

'I'm not that good,' Merlin said.

'True,' Arthur agreed..

Merlin winced, 'I suppose I walked right into that one.'

'You did,' agreed Arthur.

'One thing. Look after Guinevere, I want her to be happy in her life. She deserves that,' Arthur said.

'Oh Arthur,' Gwen said softly.

'She'd be happier with you there,' Merlin said pointedly.

'Don't worry. I'll make sure,' Merlin promised.

'By sacrificing myself, you prat,' Merlin said rolling his eyes.

The next morning Merlin and the knights approach the edge of a cliff face as they reach the Seas of Meredor. They see the Isle of the Blessed covered in smoke across the Seas.

'The Isle of the Blessed,' Arthur said.

The knights and Merlin stare at the Isle of the Blessed. They then take the ferryman's boat to the isle and hear some screeching along the way. Merlin sits at the back of the boat as they hear the screech of wyverns. The knights look up warily.

They step onto the isle and the screeching gets louder.

'What is that?' demanded Leon and they all draw their swords.

'Wyverns,' Merlin said grinning slightly.

'I really hope I'm wrong,' Gwaine said as a wyvern flies down at them.

'Wyvern!' Arthur cries as more wyverns attack. Percival falls to the ground as he gets slashed.

'You're right!' Percival said.

Merlin crouches down to hide his face and whispers, 's'enthend' apakhorein nun epello!' Merlin stands up, his eyes glow, and the wyverns fly off.

'See? That's how you deal with them,' Gwaine grins as Merlin rolls his eyes.

Merlin looked amused, 'yeah it is.'

'We need to keep moving,' Arthur said running on as they enter another passage and more wyverns fly overhead.

'Sire, you must go on! We'll fend them off!' Leon said as he, Percival, and Elyan remain outside to handle the wyverns.

'Why doesn't Merlin just get rid of them?' asked Arthur.

'I believe I was hoping they would distract you long enough so I could sacrifice myself,' Emrys said. 'Not that it worked,' Emrys sighed glancing at Lancelot who stirred awkwardly.

'Good luck,' Gwaine calls.

Arthur leads Merlin, Gwaine, and Lancelot toward the altar stone. Arthur and Merlin's faces are grim with resolve. Gwaine is the only one who doesn't understand what the others are all planning to do.

'Why am I the only one who has no idea what's going on?' demanded Gwaine.

'It is not often we have visitors,' the Cailleach said.

'Because only Morgana and Morgause are ruthless and stupid enough to tear the veil,' Merlin said darkly.

'Put an end to this. I demand you heal the tear between the two worlds,' Arthur said.

'It was not I who created this horror. Why should it be I that stops it?' asked the Cailleach.

'Because innocent people are dying,' Arthur said angrily.

'Because innocent people are dying,' Merlin said.

'Don't say it,' Arthur said as Gwaine opened his mouth and Gwen giggled.

'Indeed,' the Cailleach agreed.

The Cailleach laughs maniacally. Gwaine charges her with his sword raised. She throws him back with magic. The other knights and Merlin watch as Gwaine hits the floor and is knocked out.

'Is this the best you can do?' asked the Cailleach.

'I know what you want,' Arthur said.

'Do you? And are you willing to let me have it?' asked the Cailleach.

'Yes,' Merlin and Arthur said together.

'I'm prepared to pay whatever price is necessary,' Arthur said.

The Cailleach holds up a hand and motions with a finger for Arthur to come to her. Arthur walks determinedly toward her as the Cailleach continues to beckon the prince forward. Merlin too approaches.

'Arthur no,' Gwen cried out.

'Forb fleoghe,' Merlin whispers.

'Thank you, Merlin,' Gwen sighed.

'Merlin!' Arthur said angrily. 'What did you do?'

'Saved you from doing something incredibly stupid,' Gwen said.

Merlin's eyes glow gold as his spell stops Arthur and throws him backwards, knocking him unconscious. Cailleach looks at Merlin and they both approach the altar stone. Merlin glances back at Lancelot as he moves forward slowly.

'So, Emrys, you choose to challenge me after all. Will you give yourself to the spirits to save your prince?' asked the Cailleach pacing the alter.

'It is my destiny,' Merlin said.

'Perhaps. But your time among men is not yet over, Emrys, even if you want it to be,' the Cailleach said.

Merlin is confused. Cailleach looks at the tear in the veil and Merlin follows her gaze. Lancelot is standing at the brink. He looks back at Merlin with a smile and nods. The sound of the screaming Dorocha is heard as Lancelot walks into the shrieking veil.

'No!' screamed Merlin even though he knew this was going to happen.

'No! No! No! No!' Merlin shouts as the veil closes. 'N-no,' Merlin shouts as he stands alone with the unconscious Gwaine and Arthur.

'It's alright,' Lancelot said. 'This time we can stop this from happening. We know that it will happen on Samhain at the Isle of the Blessed. All we have to do is stop it and then I won't have to sacrifice myself.'

Arthur enters a full court. The Knights of Camelot dressed in chain mail and red cloaks stand to Arthur's right. The council members stand to Arthur's left with Gwen, Gaius and Merlin at the very front. Agravaine stands opposite Arthur. Arthur walks passed the Knights of the Round Table.

Arthur places a Camelot cape and sword on a pyre in the courtyard. Merlin and Gwen stand behind the prince.

'I want to pay tribute to Sir Lancelot. We owe him a great debt. It is not just his deed that we'll never forget. It's his courage. His compassion,' Arthur says as Merlin brings Arthur a torch for the pyre. 'His unselfish heart.'

Arthur tosses the torch on the pyre. The pyre catches fire. Merlin watches the fire burn pain in his eyes. Arthur continues to address the court in the council chambers.

'He was the most noble knight I'll ever know. He gave his life for all of us,' Arthur said.

Outside at the pyre Gwen cries as she watches the pyre burning. The sword begins to steam in the flames. The Knights and Merlin watch the pyre burn. Arthur takes Gwen's hand.

'He didn't sacrifice himself for Camelot,' Gwen said tears in her voice. 'I asked him to look after you and he promised me with his life. He was true to his word.'

Arthur thinks over what she just said, then places a comforting hand on her shoulder and leaves her by the pyre. Gwen continues to weep by the pyre, alone in the courtyard.

In Morgana's hovel Morgana screams and smashes some of her possessions.

'Arthur was lucky,' Agravaine said.

Arthur shook his head, 'it was down to Lancelot and Merlin. Or I would not have survived.'

'And Guinevere?' Morgana demands angrily.

'It was only by chance that Gaius found her,' Agravaine replied.

'If you had been any later,' Gwen shivered. 'I would not have survived.'

'It was far too close,' shivered Arthur.

'It was,' nodded Elyan.

'No, you're wrong. We were not thwarted by luck, it was Emrys!' Morgana said angrily raising her voice to a shout.

Emrys raised an eyebrow in a very Gaius like fashion, 'I saved Arthur it's true but I had nothing to do with saving Gwen. Not that I wouldn't have had I been there,' Emrys assured Gwen quickly.

'I know, Merlin,' Gwen assured her very old friend immediately.

'Emrys?' asked Agravaine.

'The Cailleach warned me about him. She said he was my destiny and my doom. It was he that thwarted us, I'm sure of it,' Morgana said.

'So what's to be done?' asked Agravaine approaching Morgana.

'Luckily they do not know who Emrys is,' Gaius said. 'And you better keep it that way,' Gaius said glaring at his ward pointedly.

'I'll do everything in my power to stop Morgana from finding out who I am,' Merlin rolled his eyes.

'As long as he exists, I will never gain what is rightfully mine,' Morgana said and turns to Agravaine. 'You must help me find this Emrys. And destroy him,' Morgana said softly and she steps away and Agravaine takes in a breath.

In the physician's chambers Merlin sits in his room staring at the spell book on the table without opening it. Merlin hears the physician's chamber door open.

'Gaius,' Agravaine says from downstairs.

'How can I be of assistance?' asks Gaius.

'You're a man of great knowledge and wisdom,' Agravaine says as Merlin gets up.

Gaius scoffs, 'knowledge, perhaps.'

'Have you ever come across a sorcerer called Emrys?' Agravaine asks.

'And that was how you found out about Agravaine's loyalty,' snorted Arthur.

Gaius pauses and Merlin listens at the door, 'no. Doesn't sound familiar.'

'Sure it doesn't,' Gwaine snorted. 'Not like the Great and Powerful Emrys lives with you or anything!'

'Hm. Well, if you do hear mention of the name,' Agravaine says as he turns to leave.

'I'll be sure to tell you,' Gaius promised..

'It will not go unrewarded,' Agravaine chuckles on his way out as Merlin comes out of his bed chamber.

'There's only one person who could've heard that name. Morgana. We know her powers are growing. She, too, must have seen the Cailleach,' Gaius said.

Merlin shakes head, 'but Agravaine...'

'He seemed to genuinely care for Arthur,' Merlin murmured.

'I suspect he's not as virtuous as he seems. And, don't forget, he has every reason to despise Uther,' Gaius said.

'You're talking about my mother's death,' Arthur said quietly.

'It looks like that,' agreed Merlin.

'We must beware, Merlin. Morgana can never know the truth. She must never know who you really are,' Gaius said.

'You never change do you,' Merlin said amused as Emrys sighed sadly.