Destiny's Call (1x01)
EXT. COUNTRYSIDE- DAY
MERLIN, 18 tall with black hair and deep blue eyes, walks through the countryside to Camelot.
MYSTERIOUS VOICE
(V.O.)
No young man, no matter how great, can know his destiny. He cannot glimpse his part in the great story that is about to unfold. Like everyone, he must live and learn. And so it will be for the young warlock arriving at the gates of Camelot. A boy that will, in time, father a legend. His name: Merlin.
EXT. MAIN SQUARE-DAY
Merlin walks through the gates of the lower town, looking around the bustling town, filled with more people than he had ever seen in his life, and is in awe of the sheer size of the castle before him.
He notices a large crowd and politely pushes his way into the main square where a man is awaiting execution. A voice booms overhead and the crowd around him falls silent.
UTHER
Let this serve as a lesson to all.
UTHER PENDRAGON, an intimidating man in his 50′s and King of Camelot, stands on a balcony above the main square to address his subjects with two guards standing beside him.
UTHER
(CONT.)
This man, Thomas James Collins, is adjudged guilty of conspiring to use enchantments and magic.
Merlin watches the king, captivated, and shifts nervously.
UTHER
(CONT.)
Under the laws of Camelot, I, Uther Pendragon, have decreed that such practices are banned on penalty of death.
Merlin’s eyes widen slightly in horror as this sinks in. He tries his best to appear unaffected by this news.
UTHER
(CONT.)
I pride myself as a fair and just king, but for the crime of sorcery, there is but one sentence I can pass.
The guards in the square shove Thomas to the ground. Merlin watches, fearful, as Uther raises his hand to signal the executioner. The ax swings down and Thomas is beheaded. The crowd gasps and most turn away. Merlin does not. He only turns away from Thomas when the king speaks again, who is completely unaffected by what just happened.
UTHER
(CONT.)
When I came to this land, this kingdom was mired in chaos. But with the people’s help, magic was driven from the realm.
Merlin watches the king with growing anger as he finishes his speech.
UTHER
(CONT.)
So, I declare a festival to celebrate twenty years since the Great Dragon was captured and Camelot freed from the evils of sorcery. Let the celebrations begin!
With the king’s pronouncement done, the king and crowd begin to leave.
An older woman, MARY COLLINS, wails in agony, and the crowd parts around her. She turns to address the king directly.
MARY COLLINS
There is only one evil in this land, and it is not magic! It is you! With your hatred! And your ignorance!
Her voice cracks. Merlin watches with tears beginning to form in his eyes. Even Uther appears to be mildly affected by the woman and her plight.
MARY COLLINS
(CONT.)
(sobs)
You took my son!
(beat, now serious)
And I promise you before these celebrations are over, you will share my tears. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth,
(beat)
a son for a son.
Any sympathy Uther may have had for the mother vanishes in an instant and he raises his arm to alert the guards.
UTHER
Seize her!
Mary looks around the circle as the guards take a step closer to her. She hastily grabs an amber pendant around her neck and mumbles a spell. A tornado of dust and wind swirls around her and within a moment she is gone. Uther quickly leaves the balcony. The crowd disperses around Merlin, leaving him startled and confused until he too leaves the courtyard for his previous destination.
INT. PALACE- DAY
Merlin wanders the castle for a moment before approaching a couple of palace guards standing by a wall.
MERLIN
Where would I find Gaius, the court physician?
GUARD
(points behind him)
There.
Merlin nods in silent thanks and follows the hallway that the guard pointed to, some of the earlier awe begins to return to him.
INT. GAIUS CHAMBERS- DAY
Merlin knocks on the door of the physician’s chambers, only to find the door already ajar. He pokes his head in politely, trying not to startle the man he is searching for.
MERLIN
(quietly)
Hello? Gaius?
No one answers so Merlin steps into the chamber. It is a wonder all its own.
Something bubbles in a cauldron on the floor. The walls are decorated with herbs hanging upside down to dry beside shelves full of varying colorful liquids and labels. The tabletops are filled with a variety of unique and fascinating objects and vials that Merlin glances at as he walks by.
Merlin smiles as he takes in his surroundings, finally looking up to see GAIUS, a long-haired man of 70, on the high balcony in the room, going through some things on a shelf.
MERLIN
(clears his throat)
Hello?
Gaius is startled by Merlin and stumbles backward, breaking the bars and railing of the balcony, surely on his way to a terrible injury.
...or is he?
With a flash of golden eyes, Gaius slows in his descent. Merlin, having instinctively frozen time, looks around the room until he sees a bed and, with another flash of gold, the bed flies under Gaius in time to stop his fall.
Time returns to normal.
Gaius gasps as he hits the bed, the breath getting knocked out of him. He recovers quickly and sits up, staring harshly at the young boy who is standing in his chambers. Merlin looks at Gaius with panic and fear in his eyes.
GAIUS
(shouts)
What did you just do?
MERLIN
(startled)
Umm...
GAIUS
Tell me!
Gaius gets off the bed, walking to stand between the bed and Merlin, and looks up at the balcony where he had just fallen from.
MERLIN
(nervous)
Well, I-I have no idea what happened.
GAIUS
(staring between balcony and Merlin)
If anyone had seen that-
MERLIN
(panicking)
Oh, no, that-that was nothing to do with me! That-that was-
GAIUS
(worried)
I know what it was! I just want to know where you learned how to do it!
MERLIN
Nowhere!
GAIUS
So how is it you know magic?
MERLIN
I don’t!
GAIUS
(insistent)
Where did you study?
Merlin swallows fearfully but does not answer for a moment.
MERLIN
I-I’ve never studied magic or-or been taught.
He looks away from Gaius. Gaius stares at him head-on.
GAIUS
(quiet but firm)
Are you lying to me, boy?
MERLIN
(sighs, looking at Gaius)
What do you want me to say?
GAIUS
The truth.
MERLIN
(insistently)
I was born like this.
Gaius shakes his head dismissively.
GAIUS
That’s impossible.
The pair look away from each other.
(Beat)
GAIUS
(CONT.)
Who are you?
Merlin stammers and pulls his traveling bag off his back, searching for a moment before pulling out a sealed parchment.
MERLIN
Oh, um I-I have this letter. Here.
Merlin hands the letter to Gaius. Gaius holds it in his hand, slightly dumbfounded, and looks back at Merlin.
GAIUS
(almost angry)
I don’t have my reading glasses.
MERLIN
I’m Merlin.
Recognition dawns over Gaius’s face and he relaxes.
GAIUS
Hunith’s son!
MERLIN
(smiles)
Yes!
GAIUS
(frowns)
But you’re not meant to be here ’til Wednesday!
Merlin’s face falls slightly.
MERLIN
It is Wednesday.
(Beat)
Gaius, startled, takes a moment to process this but before he can say anything WHAM the chamber door slams open.
In stumbles a young child, GRIFFIN, about 11 with flaming red hair tied back in a long braid, a face full of freckles, and an armful of frogs in their hands. They pay no mind to Merlin, nod at Gaius as they walk by, and go straight into the back room.
Merlin looks at Gaius questioningly and the two stand there in silence for a moment before the child walks back out, seeming to realize there was a new person in the room.
GRIFFIN
Excuse me, who is this?
GAIUS
(Exasperated)
How many times have I told you not to kick in my door?
GRIFFIN
I don’t know. But what else was I going to do? I had my frogs.
GAIUS
Well all the same, please knock next time.
GRIFFIN
(shooing motion)
Fine. Fine. Now who is this person and why don’t they look injured?
MERLIN
Oh hi, I-I’m Merlin.
Merlin holds out his hand to greet Griffin. Griffin just looks at Gaius.
GAIUS
He’s your new roommate.
Merlin and Griffin snap their heads to face Gaius.
MERLIN/GRIFFIN
WHAT?!
GAIUS
(amused)
Yes, the two of you will have to share the backroom. Griffin, help Merlin with his bag.
GRIFFIN
(very upset)
Why didn’t you tell me about this?
GAIUS
I did but you left. Something about visiting the field. Now please, help Merlin with his bag.
Griffin whines but pulls Merlin’s bag away from him and takes it into their room. Merlin watches them leave then looks at Gaius.
MERLIN
You-you won’t say anything about the um-
GAIUS
No, I won’t.
(beat, smiles)
But, Merlin, I should say thank you.
EXT. FIELD OUTSIDE OF CASTLE- DAY
CLANG. Three people stand in a field, two fighting and one standing off to the side.
CLANG. TITANIA MAZUR, 21, short, with long brown hair pinned back in a braid that is coming undone, and a skirt that had been tied into makeshift pants, has her brown eyes trained on her opponent.
CLANG. CLUNK. She smacks him hard with the flat of her blade. ARTHUR PENDRAGON, 20, tall, mid-length blond hair stuck to his face with sweat and blue eyes shifting to look where he just got hit, cries out.
ARTHUR
Hey! Watch it!
Titania huffs and smacks him again, harder than she really should.
TITANIA
You watch it.
Arthur frowns and pauses for a moment, concern for his friend on his face.
ARTHUR
Okay, what’s wrong with you?
TITANIA
Nothing. Just keep fighting.
Arthur shakes his head and sighs, shifting his stance and charging at his friend.
She dodges his attack and smacks him hard with her shield, knocking Arthur to the ground. She pants and takes a breath, clearly fighting back tears, and waits for Arthur to get back up.
He charges her again and this time knocks her down using their considerable size difference.
She rolls on her side and kicks her leg out, knocking Arthur back onto the ground. Arthur gets back up. Titania starts to stand but stumbles, wincing and closing her eyes, then falls back down. She stays down. Arthur looks down at her, eyes filled with concern.
ARTHUR
Maybe we should stop for now.
He turns and motions to the woman standing off the side. ADELIN AMBROSE, 18, blood-red hair in two braids, pushes off the tree she was leaning against, grabs the water skin from off the blanket next to her, and walks over. Titania has not moved.
TITANIA
Arthur, I’m fine.
Adelin rolls her eyes as she gets to the spot where Arthur and Titania are. Arthur smiles slightly seeing the eye roll then looks back down at Titania.
ARTHUR
I’ll pretend I believe that for a moment.
(lightly nudges her with his boot)
Get up and get water.
Arthur holds an arm out to help Titania up and after a small moment of hesitation, she takes it. Arthur pulls her up with no issue, pulling her close to him for a few moments before Adelin clears her throat and the two take a step away from each other.
ADELIN
Water, Milady?
TITANIA
(Shakes her head)
No, Adelin, I’m fin-
Titania hisses suddenly and grabs her head, a plume of smoke shooting up in the distance near the castle. Arthur, focusing on Titania, does not notice. Adelin, being naturally observant, does and frowns. After a pause, she looks between Titania and where the smoke had been.
ARTHUR
I knew it! You’re getting another headache.
TITANIA
(Rubbing her temples)
I am no-
ADELIN
(Insistently)
Water, Titania?
Titania sighs and takes a sip of her water. Adelin turns her attention back towards the castle, while Arthur remains focused on Titania. She finishes drinking and sniffles a little, wiping a few quick tears off her face. Arthur notices.
ARTHUR
(puts a hand on her shoulder)
Anya, it’s oka-
TITANIA
(pushes his hand away)
An innocent man is dead, Arthur. That is not okay.
ARTHUR
(sighs)
He committed a crime-
TITANIA
He wasn’t hurting anyone! All he did was use magic!
ARTHUR
(runs a hand through his hair)
According to my father’s laws, that in itself is a crime.
TITANIA
(Sniffle)
Your father is wrong.
ARTHUR
Don’t you think I know that?
(sighs and runs a hand through his hair)
What do you want me to say, Anya? We tried to talk him out of this. We did all we could.
Adelin, who has been packing up the supplies as the two talked, nods and hands Titania her sword and scabbard.
ADELIN
He’s right, you know. You both did all that you could. It’s not your fault that the king won’t listen to reason... Or anyone other than himself.
ARTHUR
(Warning)
Adelin...
Adelin throws up her hands in surrender but looks at Arthur.
ADELIN
Tell me I’m wrong, Arthur.
Titania is paying little attention to them, continuing to stare up at the castle with tears in her eyes.
TITANIA
I-I know I just- I can almost feel his mother’s pain. It’s... unending.
Arthur sighs, scratches his head and looks at Adelin. He motions with his head towards the castle. Adelin nods and looks back at Titania.
ADELIN
Milady, we should go back. I need to confirm your measurements so I can make the last adjustments to your armor.
Titania nods but her eyes are fixed where the smoke plume had been.
ARTHUR
(small smile)
And make sure that you get your remedy from Gaius. Headaches put you in an unbearable mood.
Arthur’s sarcasm snaps Titania’s attention away from the castle and she smiles a little. Arthur’s smile grows.
TITANIA
I appreciate your concern, my lord.
Arthur’s smile widens and he winks at her.
ARTHUR
Of course, my lady.
Arthur bows mockingly and Titania laughs, playfully smacking his arm. Her smile falls a little as more serious thoughts cross her mind.
TITANIA
Thank you again for this, Arthur.
Arthur’s smile also falls a little and he gives her a quick, one-armed hug.
ARTHUR
I’ll see you at the feast, Anya.
With another quick hug, Arthur leaves. The two women watch as Arthur walks away before they look at each other.
TITANIA
I know you were fibbing, but can we actually go to your forge. I-I wanna hit something with a hammer.
Adelin laughs a little and the two walk towards the lower town.
ADELIN
If that will make you feel better. We can stay until you have to get ready for the feast.
TITANIA
(Groans)
I really wish Uther wasn’t making me go.
ADELIN
(exasperated sigh)
I know. I know.
INT. GAIUS CHAMBERS- EVENING
Merlin sits at the window of the back room he shares with Griffin. He has settled into the room, which now has two small beds in it. Merlin’s clothes are in a pile on the floor. Griffin has taken to protesting Merlin’s presence by ignoring him and setting up a habitat for their frogs inside the wardrobe they were supposed to share with Merlin.
Merlin doesn’t seem to mind as he stares out the window, looking in wonder at the sprawling city below him.
Outside in the main room, Gaius is sitting at one of his tables, reading Hunith’s letter by candlelight.
HUNITH
(Letter, V.O.)
My dear Gaius, I turn to you for I feel lost and alone and don’t know who to trust. It is every mother’s fate to think her child is special, and yet I would give my life that Merlin was not so. Ours is a small village and he is so clearly at odds with people here that, if he were to remain, I fear what would become of him. He needs a hand to hold, a voice to guide, someone that might help him find a purpose for his gifts.
I beg you, if you understand a mother’s love for her son, keep him safe, and may the gods save you both.
Gaius folds the letter again, glances at the door to the backroom, and then burns the letter with the candle next to him.
INT. GRIFFIN’S LANDING- NIGHT
LADY MORGANA, 23 wearing a dark blue dress that dramatically stands out next to her long, black hair and light green eyes, stares alone out the window at the courtyard where Thomas was executed earlier.
Titania and Adelin approach from down the hall, Titania pausing her teasing of Adelin when they see Morgana. Adelin says something to Titania with a glare then leaves, offering a polite bow and friendly smile to Morgana as she passes by. Morgana smiles back and waves at Adelin.
Titania walks over to Morgana with a big smile. She has changed out of the dirty, sweaty dress she was in before and is now in a beautiful dark grey gown with flowing sleeves and a pale grey belt that looks striking against her tanned brown skin, her hair in a much more sophisticated half braid complete with a small twisting silver circlet. Morgana’s smile grows when she sees her.
TITANIA
Hey Morgana.
MORGANA
Hey Titania. You look beautiful.
TITANIA
As do you. Are you going to the feast?
MORGANA
(sighs)
Unfortunately. I wish I wasn’t.
Titania sighs as well.
TITANIA
You and me both.
Morgana smiles a little bit, looking between Titania and the hallway leading to the great hall. A mischievous grin crosses her face.
MORGANA
Well, we could just...not go.
Titania’s smile grows.
TITANIA
Oh?
MORGANA
(nods)
The feast has already started. We could just...leave.
TITANIA
That’s very true.
(beat, leans against the wall)
So where exactly would you want to go then-
Uther appears suddenly from the direction of the great hall, smiling when he sees the women together. Titania immediately pushes off the wall she was leaning against and stands up straight.
UTHER
(jovial)
Titania! Morgana! What is this? Why aren’t you two at the feast?
MORGANA
(frowns)
We just don’t think that chopping someone’s head off is cause for celebration.
(beat)
That poor mother.
UTHER
(indignant)
It was simple justice for what he’d done.
TITANIA
(scoffs)
To whom? He practiced some magic; he wasn’t hurting anyone.
UTHER
You two were not around twenty years ago. You have no idea what it was like.
TITANIA
How long are you going to punish people for what happened then?
MORGANA
It’s been twenty years-
UTHER
I will continue until they realize there is no room for magic in my kingdom! You will both be with me when I greet lady Helen tomorrow.
MORGANA
We told you already! We want no part in these celebrations!
UTHER
I am your guardian! I expect you both to do exactly as I ask!
(beat)
If you will show no respect to me, at least respect our finest singer.
With that demand, Uther turns to leave back to the feast. Morgana calls after him.
MORGANA
You know the more brutal you are, the more enemies you create!
Uther glares back at her but leaves without saying anything in return. Titania sighs and looks at Morgana.
TITANIA
Well, I suppose we should go then.
MORGANA
I suppose so.
Titania smiles, bows, and offers a bent arm to Morgana.
TITANIA
May I escort my lady to the feast?
Morgana grins, courtesies, and loops her arm through Titania’s.
MORGANA
It would be an honor.
Titania grins and laughs again. The women smile at each other and walk to the feast.
EXT. WOODS- NIGHT
A small camp is set up in a clearing in the woods. Four Camelot guards stand around a campfire while one other guard patrols around the camp.
LADY HELEN, 30, elegant and beautiful, sits in a lavish tent absentmindedly brushing her hair.
A loud snap sounds outside of her tent and her head snaps to the tent walls. She frowns then jumps when a dog barks outside and another branch snaps.
LADY HELEN
H-hello? Gregory?
It is quiet for a tense moment before the tent opens and GREGORY steps in.
GREGORY
Lady Helen?
LADY HELEN
(Startled, regains her composure)
Is all well?
GREGORY
Yes. With luck, we should reach Camelot late tomorrow.
LADY HELEN
(Smiles)
That is good.
GREGORY
(Nods)
I’ll be outside if you need me.
Lady Helen nods and Gregory steps out of the tent, hearing something.
(Cut to)
Gregory walks past the other guards, drawing his sword.
GREGORY
Who’s there?
(beat)
Who’s there?
(Cut to)
Lady Helen is brushing her hair. Another snap outside scares her and she turns.
A shadow passes outside the tent wall.
Lady Helen watches the tent entrance.
Mary Collins appears and walks inside.
MARY COLLINS
Akwele seo magdp.
Mary looks at Lady Helen as she stabs an effigy in her hand. Lady Helen gasps.
MARY COLLINS
(CONT.)
Akwele seo magdp.
Mary stabs the effigy again. Lady Helen gasps and clutches her chest.
MARY COLLINS
(CONT.)
Akwele seo magdp.
Mary stabs the effigy again. Lady Helen falls down dead.
Mary sits down across from Lady Helen and pulls her pendant out from under her dress.
MARY COLLINS
(CONT.)
Ghefrolinz grimpoxin kouata.
The pendant glows brightly in her hand. Her face slowly starts to change until she looks like Lady Helen.
She touches her face, smiling when she feels the change. She picks up a small mirror, frowning when she sees her own reflection.
(Fade to black)
INT. MERLIN’S CHAMBERS- MORNING
(Fade in)
Merlin is sleeping.
KILGHARRAH
(Whispers telepathically)
Merlin... Merlin...
Merlin shifts in his sleep until he finally wakes up.
He sits up in his bed, looking around. Griffin is already out of their bed, which was extremely unmade. Merlin sits for a minute, letting himself wake up before he walks out of the room.
INT. GAIUS CHAMBERS- EARLY MORNING
Gaius and Griffin are sitting at a table, eating porridge. Griffin takes no notice of Merlin as he walks in but Gaius nods.
GAIUS
I got you some water. You didn’t wash last night.
MERLIN
Sorry.
Merlin sits down and pours himself a bowl, looking dissatisfied. Gaius nods slightly at Griffin. They look at Merlin then knock the bucket of water off the table.
Merlin shoots out of his chair and stands, arm outstretched and eyes flashing gold again.
The water stops falling in midair.
Merlin looks at Griffin and Gaius, who are both looking at him.
The bucket falls to the floor.
GAIUS
(baffled)
How did you do that? Did you incant a spell in your mind?
Merlin looks nervously between Gaius and Griffin as he answers.
MERLIN
(adamantly shakes his head)
I don’t know any spells.
GAIUS
So what did you do?
MERLIN
I didn’t do anything. It-it just happens.
GRIFFIN
(eyes narrowed)
There must be something. People don’t just do that.
Merlin looks at Griffin.
MERLIN
Should sh-
GAIUS
Griffin lives here so they were bound to find out. Don’t worry,
(turns to Griffin)
they’re good at keeping secrets.
Griffin tries to smile reassuringly, but it is slightly unconvincing.
GRIFFIN
I won’t tell. Promise.
Merlin stares at them for a moment before he grabs a mop to get the water. Gaius sighs.
GAIUS
Well, we better keep you out of trouble. You can help me-
Suddenly there is a knock at the door. All three heads turn to the door and Gaius slowly walks over to open it.
Adelin, still in the clothes she was wearing the previous night, limps into the room. Griffin grins as soon as they see her.
GRIFFIN
Addy!
ADELIN
(pained smile)
Hey there, little Lyall.
GAIUS
(worried)
Adelin, what happened?
Adelin bites her lip, looking down at the floor.
ADELIN
I uh dropped one of my smithing tools just now. And instead of letting it hit the floor... I may have kicked it.
Gaius sighs and motions for Adelin to sit in a nearby chair while he grabs his medicine bag. Griffin pulls up a chair next to her, runs to their room, and comes back with a frog. They hand the frog to Adelin.
GRIFFIN
I found this little guy yesterday! He is your new buddy. Nothing bad will happen to you while you’re holding a frog.
Adelin smiles endearingly. So does Merlin, happy to see a friendly side to Griffin.
ADELIN
Thanks, Griffin. I love him.
Adelin looks at Gaius, who has sat down next to her.
ADELIN
(CONT.)
Uh, let’s not tell Lady Titania about this, shall we?
Gaius glances up at Adelin with a small smile, used to her antics after all these years.
GAIUS
Oh? And why don’t you want your mistress to know about this?
Adelin is suddenly very interested in her new frog.
ADELIN
I... uh may not have... slept... after I left the feast last night?
GAIUS
(shakes his head)
Oh, she will not be happy to hear that.
ADELIN
Exactly, so let’s keep this between us, shall we?
GRIFFIN
(grins)
I won’t tell!
ADELIN
(smiles)
I know you won’t.
Merlin coughs a little awkwardly, having been standing off to the side for most of this conversation.
MERLIN
I won’t tell either but that might just be because I don’t know who that is.
Adelin snaps her attention to Merlin, finally seeming to notice the new person in the room.
ADELIN
Who are you?
GRIFFIN
(grumbles)
The stupid roommate Gaius is forcing on me.
GAIUS
(sternly)
Griffin, be nice.
(to Adelin)
This is Merlin. I’m taking him in as a favor to his mother.
ADELIN
(to Gaius)
Adopting another orphan?
(to Merlin, smiles)
Nice to meet you, Merlin. I’m Adelin.
MERLIN
(shy smile)
GAIUS
I’ll give you something to do in a moment, Merlin. Let me take care of Adelin first.
MERLIN
I can wait.
ADELIN
(Winces as Gaius treats her leg)
What were you hoping to have him do?
GAIUS
Well, I need to ask around and see if I can find work for him, but for now, I thought he could help me with my work.
ADELIN
If you want, I can show him around the castle. It’s easy to get lost if you don’t know where you’re going.
GRIFFIN
Oh! Can I come? I wanna come!
GAIUS
If you think it’ll take three people to run errands-
GRIFFIN
I have to show him my staircase though!
Merlin grins, thrilled to see Griffin starting to warm up to him.
MERLIN
I would love to see your staircase.
Gaius shakes his head but smiles as he finishes bandaging Adelin.
GAIUS
Alright, just make sure that all of the deliveries are made.
Griffin cheers and runs to get changed. Gaius smiles then turns to look at Adelin.
GAIUS
You have to stop working through the night, Adelin. You need sleep.
ADELIN
(pouts)
But that’s when I get some of my best work done.
GAIUS
Perhaps you should sleep during the day then.
ADELIN
I have to serve my lady and mentor with William during the day.
GAIUS
(rolls his eyes)
Well, I know for a fact that either of them would be happy to give you time off.
Adelin scoffs and she readjusts her skirt and boots.
ADELIN
I want to work in the forge with William. And my lady gives me too much time off already.
GAIUS
Fair enough but as your physician, I need you to sleep more.
ADELIN
(making a shooing motion)
Yeah yeah, I will.
Griffin runs out of the backroom, dressed and ready to go. Adelin finishes with her clothes. Merlin takes a bag of medicines from Gaius. The three of them take off.
INT. VARIOUS CASTLE LOCATIONS-MORNING
Montage of the two showing Merlin around various areas of the castle as he runs errands for Gaius.
Griffin is particularly proud of Griffin’s Landing, the staircase that they have claimed as their own.
Eventually, the chores are done, and the trio walks through the courtyard.
ADELIN
Alright, well we’ve finished with your chores, but I need to do mine now.
MERLIN
Oh, what do you need to do? I can help.
ADELIN
I have to work for Lady Titania. To start, I have to get her breakfast. I highly doubt that she’s awake yet but if she is I know she hasn’t eaten.
MERLIN
Why do you have to get it for her?
ADELIN
I’m her maid. That’s my job. Get her food, help her get dressed, clean the room-
MERLIN
She can’t get dressed by herself?
GRIFFIN
(rolls their eyes)
Noble’s dresses are kind of complicated to put on.
Merlin, baffled, shakes his head.
MERLIN
How do you even go about getting a position like that?
ADELIN
(chuckles)
Well... I don’t know how most people go about it. My promotion was a little... special.
MERLIN
(curious)
Yeah? What happened?
ADELIN
It’s a long story but I saved Titania’s life. I was rewarded with my job.
MERLIN
You saved her life, so they rewarded you with a job?
GRIFFIN
(scoffs)
She’s the king’s ward. What else was the king supposed to do?
ADELIN
(Chuckles)
It’s a pretty nice job. And I really do like her. She’s one of the nicer nobles.
MERLIN
(Shakes his head)
This still sounds so crazy to me. Can they do anything by themselves?
Adelin laughs.
ADELIN
You’re not from around here, are you?
MERLIN
Um no. I’m from Ealdor. On the outskirts of King Cenrid’s kingdom.
GRIFFIN
(rolls their eyes)
Everything makes sense now.
ADELIN
(Smiles a little bit)
Well, you’re in a city now. Here-
They walk past the training grounds.
ADELIN
There’s a hierarchy.
EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS-MORNING
Adelin, Griffin, and Merlin walk past the training grounds as Arthur and some of the other knights are training. Arthur looks at his “friends”, laughing, then turns to MORRIS, a young serving boy.
ARTHUR
Where’s the target?
The other knights laugh in the background.
MORRIS
(looks at the target then Arthur)
There, sir?
ARTHUR
(squints, motioning upwards)
It’s into the sun.
MORRIS
But... it’s not that bright.
ARTHUR
(laughs)
A bit like you then!
Adelin and Griffin roll their eyes. Arthur’s “friends” laugh. Merlin watches with concern.
MORRIS
(sighs)
I’ll put the target on the other end, shall I?
Arthur nods. Morris reluctantly picks up the heavy shield and begins to move across the field. The knights snicker.
KNIGHT #1
(nudges Arthur)
Teach him a lesson.
ARTHUR
(smirks and nods)
This will teach him.
As Morris hikes the shield over his back, Arthur grabs a dagger and throws it at him. The dagger sticks into the shield and Morris pulls it down, looking confused and startled. Merlin is concerned.
ADELIN
Arthur!
MORRIS
(looking between Arthur and the shield)
Hey, Hang on!
ARTHUR
(not noticing Adelin, looking at Morris)
Don’t stop!
Morris frowns but picks up the shield again and starts walking.
MORRIS
Here?
ARTHUR
(shakes his head)
I told you to keep moving!
Arthur throws another dagger. Morris quickly pulls the shield over his face as the dagger plunges into the wood. Morris pulls it back down after the impact, looking a little panicked at the dagger, then back at Arthur.
ARTHUR
(CONT.)
(laughing)
Come on! Run!
Morris struggles to run back and forth across the field as Arthur continues to throw daggers.
ARTHUR
(CONT.)
We want some moving target practice!
Eventually, Morris trips and drops the shield. He runs to catch it and Merlin stops it with his foot. Adelin crouches down to help Morris up.
ADELIN
Hey, Mo. Are you okay?
MORRIS
(softly)
Yeah, I’m fine.
Adelin helps Morris stand then looks over angrily at Arthur and the knights.
ADELIN
You know-
Merlin interrupts, looking at Arthur.
MERLIN
Hey, come on. That’s enough.
Arthur, laughing, turns away from his “friends” to look at Merlin. Adelin is horrified. Griffin is watching looking unsure of what to do.
ADELIN
(Hissing)
Merlin!
ARTHUR
(no longer laughing)
What?
Arthur glances at Adelin as if to ask who this person is before he walks over to Merlin.
MERLIN
You’ve had your fun, my friend.
ARTHUR
Do I know you?
MERLIN
(holding out his hand)
Er, I’m Merlin-
ARTHUR
So I don’t know you.
MERLIN
(putting his hand down)
No.
ARTHUR
And yet you called me friend.
ADELIN
Arthur, don’t.
Merlin looks down, smacks his lips, then looks back at Arthur. The change in his body language from polite to confrontational is subtle but Adelin catches it.
ADELIN
Merlin, don’t.
Both men ignore Adelin. She does not like this. Griffin is conflicted, looking between the three anxiously.
MERLIN
That was my mistake.
ARTHUR
(nods)
Yes, I think so.
Adelin groans and shakes her head.
MERLIN
(a smug, boyish grin)
Yeah, I’d never have a friend who could be such an ass.
Adelin gasps and grabs Merlin by the arm to pull him away. Merlin doesn’t resist, allowing her to pull him away with a smile on his face. Arthur scoffs and yells at Merlin’s retreating form.
ARTHUR
Nor I one who could be so stupid!
Merlin pulls out of Adelin’s grip and turns to look at Arthur.
ARTHUR
(CONT.)
Tell me, Merlin, do you know how to walk on your knees?
MERLIN
No.
ARTHUR
(smirk)
Would you like me to help you?
ADELIN
ARTHUR!
Merlin looks between Adelin and Arthur with confusion then turns back to Arthur.
MERLIN
I wouldn’t if I were you.
ADELIN
Merlin, shut up!
Both men continue to ignore Adelin.
ARTHUR
(Chuckles)
Why? What are you going to do to me?
MERLIN
You have no idea.
Arthur laughs, looking around at his “friends” then at Merlin.
ARTHUR
(Taunting)
Oh? Be my guest!
(Beat)
Come on!
(Beat)
Come on!
(Beat)
Come oooonnn-
Merlin finally gives in to the taunting and pulls his hand back to hit Arthur. With no hesitation or effort, Arthur stops Merlin’s fist, catching it with his own then twisting Merlin’s arm behind his back.
ADELIN
Merlin! Arthur!
ARTHUR
(still twisting Merlin’s arm, hard)
I’ll have you thrown in jail for that.
MERLIN
(pained wince)
What, who do you think you are? The king?
ARTHUR
(snickers)
No, I’m his son.
Arthur takes Merlin out at the knees and brings him to the ground. The guards pick Merlin up and drag him off. Arthur turns to his “friends”, a satisfied grin on his face. Which falls the second he turns to Adelin, whose arms are as crossed as she is.
ADELIN
(fuming)
What the fuck, Arthur!?
ARTHUR
(quietly)
What? You heard what he said! And he tried to hit me. What was I supposed to do?
ADELIN
You egged him on! He had no idea who you were!
(groan)
Titania is going to kill you when she hears about this.
Arthur scoffs a little but scratches his head nervously.
ARTHUR
She’s a little busy right now. Besides, I doubt she’ll care about some kid-
ADELIN
And what about Morris? Who you were throwing daggers at?
ARTHUR
(shifts)
I was training with the knights-
ADELIN
(shakes her head)
Good luck getting her to believe that.
Adelin sighs and walks off, making sure that Griffin follows her. Arthur watches them leave then puts a smile back on his face as he turns to face his “friends”.
INT. GRIFFIN’S LANDING- MORNING
Adelin walks back into the castle with a silent Griffin. She is clearly fuming but Griffin looks almost guilty. They stop by the griffin statue and look up at Adelin.
GRIFFIN
Should-should I have done something? I just stood there and-
Adelin stops and gently grabs their shoulders, squatting down to look them in the eyes.
ADELIN
Listen, Griffin, there is nothing you could have done. Don’t feel bad about what happened.
GRIFFIN
But Merlin got in trouble. And Gaius-
ADELIN
Won’t blame you. None of this is your fault.
Adelin sighs and stands up, dusting off her skirt. Griffin watches her.
ADELIN
(CONT.)
I’m going to run to the kitchen to get food for Lady Titania. Why don’t you come with me to get something for you and Gaius?
Griffin nods and bites their lip.
GRIFFIN
What should I tell him about Merlin? He’s going to be really upset.
ADELIN
(small smile)
Tell him that I’ll take care of it.
(she boops Griffin’s nose)
Merlin will be okay. I promise.
Griffin smiles.
INT. TITANIA’S CHAMBERS-DAY
Adelin pushes open the chamber door with one hand as she balances a plate of food on the other. She enters as quietly as she can, clearly tiptoeing around someone who is sleeping.
Or someone who is supposed to be.
Titania is slumped over a desk near the window of her room, the top of which is covered in parchment and used ink wells. Titania herself looks exhausted as if she has been up all night, dressed in a loose embroidered nightgown. She doesn’t seem to notice Adelin walk in.
Adelin sets the plate down on the dining table, looking around to judge the state of the room. The bed in the far corner was perfectly made the way she left it the previous morning; embroidered curtains tied back against the bedposts, blankets tucked under the mattress, pillows neatly arranged and fluffed against the headboard. Unslept in.
The rest of the room looked just as neat. Wardrobe organized, swords neatly decorating the wall above the flower vases. Everything about the room was neat and tidy, just how Adelin liked it.
Everything in it but her friend.
ADELIN
(chuckles)
Lady Titania, you’re up already?
TITANIA
(groans)
I never went to bed. And that is Sir Titania, Lynn.
Adelin smiles and clears off some papers from the desk, setting the food down when it’s a little neater.
ADELIN
Mmm, I know, but I want to call you lady. Especially since you don’t look like one. What happened?
TITANIA
(yawns)
I think I’m being punished.
ADELIN
(suspiciously)
For what....
TITANIA
I may have gotten into a fight with Uther last night.
ADELIN
Tati!
Titania shakes her head and groans.
TITANIA
I know, I know. Morgana and I didn’t want to take part in the festivities, and we yelled at him so now he’s making me help plan to celebrations. Including the tournament, which I think is overkill.
ADELIN
I’m sorry.
TITANIA
(shakes her head)
It’s fine, I’m just tir- is that food?
ADELIN
(chuckles)
Of course, it is. I thought you would still be asleep as usual.
TITANIA
(picking at the food)
So did I. Do I even want to know what time it is?
ADELIN
Don’t worry, it’s not too late. A few hours until midday.
Adelin walks around the room, tidying the room as much as she is able and trying to hide her limp. Unfortunately, Titania notices.
TITANIA
You’re limping. Are you okay?
ADELIN
(organizing the wardrobe)
Oh, yeah, I’m fine.
(Beat)
Arthur was being an ass earlier and screwing with Morris again.
TITANIA
(groans)
He was with those assholes, wasn’t he?
Adelin smiles to herself, happy Titania allowed the subject to change.
ADELIN
Yup. Also, Gaius has a new... Orphan? Assistant? It doesn’t really matter, but he called Arthur on his shit, tried then failed to hit him, then Arthur had him arrested.
Titania coughs, choking on her food. She takes a moment to clear her throat then looks at Adelin.
TITANIA
He did what?
(shakes her head)
Gods, I miss training one day...
ADELIN
Poor kid. His name’s Merlin.
Titania snaps her head up from her food and looks over at Adelin, still organizing her wardrobe.
TITANIA
Merlin?
ADELIN
(nods, turning to look at Titania)
Country boy. Never left his village until now.
TITANIA
(small laugh)
Oh no! First day here and he picks a fight with the prince.
(yawns)
I’ll talk to Uther and see if I can get Merlin out.
ADELIN
Yeah, good luck with that.
Titania laughs and yawns again, getting up.
TITANIA
I’ll go talk to Arthur first. If he tells his father to let the kid go then Uther is more likely to listen.
ADELIN
(laughs)
I doubt he’ll take it back.
TITANIA
(defensive)
He’s reasonable. He’ll listen to reason as long as he’s alone.
ADELIN
(doubtful)
Mmm well let’s eat breakfast first
(Pointing to the food)
Then you can go yell at Arthur.
Titania chuckles but nods and eats her food.
(Sometime later)
Titania has finished her food and Adelin has changed her into a more appropriate outfit, a beautiful blue dress with her hair pinned in a braided bun. They are organizing the papers on her desk when there is a knock at the door. Titania glances over as Adelin opens the door.
Arthur stands in the doorway, also changed, and offers Adelin a small smile.
ARTHUR
Hi Adelin.
Adelin is not amused.
ARTHUR
Uh, Anya, my father wants to know if you have those papers, he told you to work on?
TITANIA
(waves him off)
I was going to bring them to him in a minute.
Arthur walks into her room and leans against the wall, watching as she collects her work. Adelin shuts the door and stands off in the corner, watching.
TITANIA
So Arthur...what did you do this morning?
ARTHUR
(glances at Adelin)
Oh uh, nothing really. Just...training with the knights.
TITANIA
(small nod)
Oh, just training? Nothing else?
ARTHUR
(swallows)
Yeah that uh that’s about it.
Adelin grins as Titania walks over and hands Arthur the papers.
TITANIA
Just training? You didn’t happen to...arrest any bystanders?
ARTHUR
(looks at Adelin)
I cannot believe you told her-
TITANIA
Oh, don’t look at her.
(smacks Arthur’s arm)
What is wrong with you?
ARTHUR
(rubs his arm)
Titania, you weren’t there-
Titania smacks him again. Adelin laughs.
TITANIA
I don’t need to be there to know you shouldn’t just arrest kids who didn’t do anything to you!
ADELIN
Oh, he did plenty.
(counting on her fingers)
He insulted Arthur’s pride in front of his friends.
ARTHUR
Adelin.
ADELIN
(counts more)
He was throwing daggers at Morris too.
ARTHUR
Adelin!
ADELIN
(smirks)
That’s my name. Don’t wear it out.
TITANIA
(smacks Arthur’s arm again)
I know you’re the prince, but do you have to be such an ass?!
ARTHUR
Ow! Anya!
TITANIA
(smack)
You are a good
(smack)
person! So why
(smack)
do you insist
(smack)
on pretending
(smack)
to be
(smack)
Cruel!
ARTHUR
Stop hitting me!
TITANIA
Not
(smack)
Until
(smack)
you get it
(smack)
through that
(smack)
Thick
(smack smack)
Skull!
ADELIN
This is so much better than I thought.
Arthur blocks Titania as she smacks his arm again and glares at Adelin.
ARTHUR
Are you enjoying this, Adelin?
ADELIN
Absolutely.
Arthur goes to say something, but Titania interrupts him.
TITANIA
Come to talk to your father with me.
ARTHUR
(looks down at Titania)
Why?
Titania frowns and smacks him lightly again.
TITANIA
Because Merlin doesn’t deserve to be in jail. I know it and you do too.
ARTHUR
Anya...
TITANIA
Look me in the eyes and tell me that you didn’t arrest him just for show in front of those assholes you call friends.
Arthur looks at her for a moment then bites his lip and looks away, meeting Adelin’s eyes briefly. She is looking at him as if to say, ‘I told you so.’
ARTHUR
Fine. You’re right. I’ll talk to my father with you.
Adelin scoffs.
ADELIN
Good luck with that.
Titania smiles at Adelin.
ARTHUR
So, Anya, are you done hitting me?
TITANIA
Are you done being an ass?
ARTHUR
Yes.
ADELIN
So does that mean that when you behave like an ass again, she can hit you?
ARTHUR
What? No!
ADELIN
But if you won’t do it again, then what’s the problem?
ARTHUR
(rubs his arm)
I don’t want to be hit.
ADELIN
So don’t be an ass then.
TITANIA
Both of you, stop it.
Adelin snickers. Arthur rubs his arm. Titania chuckles.
TITANIA
So are you going to be there to welcome Lady Helen tonight?
ARTHUR
No. What’s the point? I’ll see her when she performs.
TITANIA
(pouts)
That’s not fair! He’s making me and Morgana go!
Arthur laughs.
TITANIA
(pouts)
Don’t laugh! I hate this!
ARTHUR
(fighting back a smile)
I’m sorry.
TITANIA
(still pouting)
No, you’re not.
ARTHUR
(smiles at Titania)
No, I’m not. Uh, anyway we should go get those papers to my father...and talk to him about Merlin.
EXT. CASTLE WALLS- NIGHT
“Lady Helen” and her escort ride into the castle. One of the guards helps her off her horse.
As she dismounts, she looks around the empty courtyard, not noticing her true reflection in the puddle below her.
She follows the group into the castle.
INT. THRONE ROOM- NIGHT
“Lady Helen” walks alone across the throne room to greet Uther. Lady Morgana, Sir Titania, Adelin, and the rest of the court (minus Arthur) stand to both sides as “Lady Helen” enters the room. Uther smiles and stands up.
UTHER
Lady Helen. Thank you so much for coming to sing at our celebrations.
“LADY HELEN”
(smiles)
The pleasure’s all mine.
UTHER
How was your journey?
“LADY HELEN”
(sighs)
Oh, the time it took, Sire.
UTHER
(kisses her hands)
Well, it’s always worth the wait.
“LADY HELEN”
(smiles at Uther)
Yes...it will be.
INT. DUNGEONS- MORNING
Merlin is asleep in hay on the floor of the dungeon, using his coat as a blanket.
KILGHARRAH
(telepathically)
Merlin.
Merlin rolls over as the voice rings in his head, looking around confused.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin.
Merlin jumps, surprised, and backs away from where he had been sleeping, staring at the floor in shock.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin!
Merlin jumps again but bends down and starts to investigate the floor. A loud grinding sound echoes through the cell as the door opens. Merlin turns and sees Titania smile at the guards then walk into the cell.
She is dressed very differently than we have seen her before. She is in a loose black shirt, brown trousers, and knee-high brown boots with a sword strapped to her waist. Her hair is pinned back in a long braid again. She smiles widely when she sees Merlin and seems almost familiar with him.
TITANIA
Hi, Merlin. I’m Titania. You don’t know me but I’m-
MERLIN
Adelin. You’re Adelin’s... mistress.
TITANIA
(chuckles)
Yes, Adelin is my maid. I’m here to let you out.
Merlin, who had been observing Titania just as much as she had been observing him, looks at her confused.
MERLIN
What? Really?
TITANIA
(laughs)
Yes! Adelin told me what happened. If I was there, you wouldn’t have gotten into trouble in the first place.
MERLIN
Pardon my asking, my lady-
TITANIA
If you’re friends with Adelin, you can call me Titania.
MERLIN
(small smile)
Titania, how exactly could you have stopped this?
Titania laughs loudly and grins. Even the guards in the background can be heard chuckling.
TITANIA
Well, Merlin, for one I’m a knight. And for another, I’m the king’s ward. So I have a little bit of influence here.
Merlin’s eyes darted down over Titania, her outfit, her sword, her messy hair.
MERLIN
You-you’re a knight? But you’re a lady. Adelin-
TITANIA
(shakes her head)
Adelin has known me since we were kids. She’s not exactly used to calling me, Sir Titania.
MERLIN
Oh.
TITANIA
Yeah.
(sighs)
Look, I just wanted to say that I respect what you did. That took a lot of guts and I’ll always support people standing up for others. So... if u ever need anything, even if that’s just a friend, I’ll be here.
Merlin looks at Titania perplexed.
MERLIN
Why are you being so nice to me?
TITANIA
(shrugs)
Because Arthur wasn’t. And... I don’t know I just generally try to be a good person. I’m also really sorry that you had to see Arthur like that. I swear he’s not always an ass.
Merlin continues to look at her for a few moments, trying to figure out how genuine she is. Titania just smiles at him.
TITANIA
(CONT.)
Ssooo, I talked to the king and was able to get you released. Though, Gaius is very upset with you.
(chuckle)
I’m not sure I can do much to help with that.
MERLIN
(smiles)
That’s unfortunate.
TITANIA
(smiles back)
Yeah, you might be grounded. And worse, I’m afraid.
MERLIN
Worse?
TITANIA
(bites her lip, smiling)
Well...
EXT. LOWER TOWN- DAY
MERLIN
Oh, Gods.
Merlin is in the stocks, watching as a crowd of children walk up to him with baskets full of food. He tilts his head down as the crowd begins to throw food at him, laughing with glee as they do.
Gaius walks by and smiles at Merlin’s predicament. Even Merlin smiles a little bit.
MERLIN
(looks at Gaius as he walks by)
Thanks!
Gaius continues on his way. Merlin continues to get pelted with fruits and vegetables. After a few moments, the children run out of food and run away.
GUINEVERE, 22, coiled brown hair pulled tightly in a bun, brown skin and eyes standing out beautifully against her yellow dress, and Adelin walk by. The women laugh as they jump out of the way of the kids and look over at Merlin. Gwen frowns, looking between him and Adelin.
GWEN
Is that Merlin? From yesterday?
ADELIN
(looking over)
Yeah, that’s him.
GWEN
Poor kid.
Gwen pauses as they walk and looks at Adelin.
GWEN
(CONT.)
I want to go talk to him.
Adelin raises an eyebrow but shrugs and walks over with Gwen. Merlin looks up as they approach.
GWEN
(CONT.)
(adorable, awkward, sweet)
I’m Guinevere, but most people call me Gwen. I’m Lady Morgana’s maid.
ADELIN
(Small wave)
You know who I am.
Merlin smiles, laughs, and then tries to shake Gwen’s hand.
MERLIN
Right. I’m Merlin.
They awkwardly shake hands. Adelin smiles.
MERLIN
(CONT.)
Although, most people just call me Idiot.
Gwen and Adelin laugh.
GWEN
(shakes her head)
No, no, no, no. I saw what you did. It was brave.
MERLIN
(scoffs)
It was stupid.
ADELIN
Very stupid.
GWEN
(chuckles)
Well, I’m glad you walked away. You weren’t going to beat him.
Merlin scoffs. Adelin laughs.
MERLIN
Oh, I-I can beat him.
Adelin snorts and laughs. Gwen looks Merlin up and down before answering.
GWEN
(SO politely skeptical, trying not to offend him)
You-you think? Because you don’t look like one of these big, muscle-y kind of fellows.
MERLIN
(offended)
Thanks...
Adelin is laughing harder the more the two of them talk. Gwen tries to back pedal hard.
GWEN
No! No, I’m sure you’re stronger than you look. It’s just, erm... Arthur’s one of these real rough, tough, save the world kind of men, and... well...
MERLIN
What...
GWEN
You don’t look like that?
Merlin smiles a little bit and looks from side to side as if he was being sneaky. Merlin motions for Gwen to move closer. She looks skeptical but does. Adelin is watching them trying not to laugh.
MERLIN
(whispers)
I’m in disguise.
Adelin starts crying laughing. Gwen pauses for a moment then laughs with her whole body. Merlin grins.
GWEN
(pauses laughing and smiles at him)
Well, it’s great you stood up to him.
MERLIN
(still smiling)
What? You think so?
GWEN
(nods)
Arthur’s a bully and everyone thought you were a real hero. Right, Winnie?
ADELIN
(nods)
I wouldn’t say a bully. An arse or a prat. A showoff maybe. But a lot of people admire what you did. It was brave.
MERLIN
That’s what Titania said.
Merlin pauses and looks at the two women.
MERLIN
(CONT.)
Is she for real? Like, is she actually just...nice?
GWEN
Sir Titania? Yes, she’s nice.
MERLIN
So if she said she wanted to be my friend?
ADELIN
She meant it. Everything I have in Camelot I owe to her.
Merlin raises his eyebrow skeptically and goes to say something but sees that the children are returning with more food. He keeps his eyes on the kids as he talks.
MERLIN
Oh, excuse me, ladies. My fans are waiting.
Adelin and Gwen laugh as they leave, watching the kids throw food at Merlin. Merlin tries to wave goodbye.
GWEN
Well, he seems nice.
ADELIN
He’s an idiot though.
GWEN
No, he’s brave.
ADELIN
He can be brave and an idiot at the same time.
Adelin gives Gwen a mischievous smile.
ADELIN
(CONT)
Why are you so quick to defend him?
GWEN
(embarrassed smile)
I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Adelin laughs.
ADELIN
Gwen, you’re a terrible liar and a worse flirt. You were flirting with him!
GWEN
(gasps)
No, I was not-
ADELIN
(teasing grin)
Gwen has a ccrruusshh!
GWEN
(smacks her)
Adelin!
Adelin just laughs.
INT. GAIUS CHAMBERS- AFTERNOON
Merlin sits with Gaius and Griffin after being released to eat lunch. Gaius smiles at Merlin and pushes a bowl of vegetables to him.
GAIUS
Would you like some vegetables with that?
MERLIN
(laughs)
I know you’re still angry with me.
GAIUS
Your mother asked me to look after you. You can have Titania vouch for you all you want, but of course, I’ll be upset if you’re being irresponsible.
MERLIN
(looks down)
I know.
GRIFFIN
It was kind of cool to see Sir Titania here though.
(beat)
When she’s not unconscious or bleeding.
Merlin chuckles a little and eats his food. Gaius looks at Merlin for a few moments as he eats before speaking.
GAIUS
What did your mother say to you about your gifts?
MERLIN
(slight eye roll)
That I was special.
GAIUS
(seriously)
You are special. The likes of which I have never seen before.
MERLIN
(shifts his food then looks at Gaius again)
What do you mean?
GAIUS
Well, magic requires incantations, spells. It takes years to study. What I saw you do was... elemental, instinctive.
Merlin nods in agreement, kind of rolling his eyes again.
MERLIN
What’s the point if it can’t be used?
GAIUS
(soft chuckle)
That I do not know. You are a question that has never been posed before, Merlin.
Merlin looks down then up at Gaius.
MERLIN
Did you ever study magic?
Griffin looks up, suddenly interested in the conversation. Gaius pauses for a few moments, not meeting either of their eyes then looks up again.
GAIUS
Uther banned all such work twenty years ago.
MERLIN
Why?
No one is eating their food anymore. They are completely absorbed in this conversation.
GAIUS
People used magic for the wrong end at that time. It threw the natural order into chaos. Uther made it his mission to destroy everything from back then, even the dragons.
MERLIN
(startled)
What? All of them?
GAIUS
There was one dragon he chose not to kill, kept it as an example.
(sighs)
He imprisoned it in a cave deep beneath the castle where no one can free it.
It is silent for a few moments as that information sinks in. Merlin is intrigued. Griffin has a small, mischievous smile on their face. Gaius does not notice.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
Now, eat up. When you’ve finished, I need you to take this preparation to Lady Helen. She needs it for her voice.
INT. “LADY HELEN’S” GUEST CHAMBERS- DAY
Merlin walks through the castle to “Lady Helen’s” chambers. The door is slightly ajar, so he pushes it open and goes inside.
The room is nothing remarkable. Beautiful curtains and flowers adorn the room, though the mirror is strangely partially covered with a cloth.
Merlin shrugs, thinking nothing of this, and sets the preparation Gaius made on the vanity.
He goes to leave then frowns, noticing that there is a strange straw doll also on the vanity. He picks it up to examine it then starts to look around the vanity at her other things, casting looks around to make sure no one is coming. He picks up an old suspicious book which Merlin starts to open as “Lady Helen” walks down the balcony corridor.
Merlin hears the door opening and hastily puts everything back, finishing just as “Lady Helen” comes in. She looks between Merlin and the vanity before addressing him.
“LADY HELEN”
What are you doing here?
MERLIN
An... I- I was asked to deliver this.
“Lady Helen” looks at Merlin as he goes to grab the preparation from the vanity but is startled when she catches her true reflection in the mirror which is slightly uncovered. Merlin does not notice, and she quickly composes herself as Merlin hands her the bottle.
Merlin looks at “Lady Helen” suspiciously as he hands her the bottle then offers her a nervous smile.
She looks at the bottle then Merlin and returns the nervous smile. Merlin runs out of the room as nonchalantly as he can.
INT. BALCONY CORRIDOR- DAY
Merlin walks quickly away from “Lady Helen’s” chambers, continuing to look back behind him to see if she is following him. He is so paranoid about “Lady Helen”, he does not notice Adelin come out of another room and start walking down the corridor.
Adelin sees Merlin. Her eyes go wide, and she panics, trying to backstep and go the opposite direction of him, but she trips and drops her things. The clatter of armor and jewelry brings Merlin’s attention to her and, assuming he scared her, he runs over to help.
MERLIN
Oh Gods, Adelin, I’m so sorry!
ADELIN
(laughs a little, kind of flushed)
Hi, Merlin. Is everything okay?
MERLIN
(helping Adelin pick up a few pieces she dropped)
Uh yeah, it’s fine.
The two stand up. Adelin looks at Merlin, who is clearly frazzled and bites her lip.
ADELIN
Are you busy right now?
MERLIN
Um, no. Why?
Adelin shifts the jewelry in her hands and smiles at him.
ADELIN
Well, Titania is busy training the knights, so I was going to go to the market to get some supplies for a project that I’m working on. Do you want to come with me?
Merlin grins at Adelin and nods.
MERLIN
Yes! That sounds fun. Gaius still hasn’t found me any work, so I would love to help you.
ADELIN
(smile)
Let’s go then.
EXT. LOWER TOWN- DAY
Merlin walks through the lower town with Adelin, passing Arthur, Titania, and some other knights as they walk to the jeweler’s stall.
Arthur grins when he sees Merlin walk by and stops his group. Titania frowns, confused, and groans to herself when she sees the look on Arthur’s face.
ARTHUR
(to Merlin)
How’s your knee walking coming along?
ADELIN
(softly)
Just ignore him, Merlin.
Merlin takes a deep breath and continues walking. Titania grabs Arthur’s arm softly.
TITANIA
Arthur, come on. Let’s go.
Arthur looks at her for a moment, almost stopping, before one of the other knights bumps his shoulder. Arthur’s grin returns and he yells at Merlin’s retreating form.
ARTHUR
Aw, come on! Don’t run away.
Once again, Merlin pulls away from Adelin and stops walking. He takes a deep breath, clearly extremely annoyed and Adelin’s eyes widen.
MERLIN
From you?
ARTHUR
Thank God. I thought you were deaf as well as dumb.
Merlin shakes his head, trying to contain his anger, and smiles a little bit amused. Adelin looks at him and shakes her head. He ignores her.
MERLIN
Look, I’ve told you that you’re an ass-
He turns to face Arthur and the others. He doesn’t notice Titania.
MERLIN
(CONT.)
-I just didn’t realize you were a royal one.
The other knights shift and Merlin laughs.
MERLIN
(CONT.)
Oh, what are you going to do? Got your daddy’s men to protect you?
Titania laughs, hand still on Arthur’s arm trying to prevent Arthur from doing anything. Arthur just laughs and squeezes her hand.
ARTHUR
(laughing)
I could take you apart with one blow.
Merlin looks at Arthur and smirks at Arthur.
MERLIN
I could take you apart with less than that.
Titania chokes laughing. Arthur tilts his head, pondering Merlin’s word choice and holding in laughter. Adelin groans and grabs Merlin again.
ADELIN
(hissing under her breath)
Merlin, stop flirting, and let’s go.
Titania starts laughing again. Arthur scoffs and looks Merlin up and down.
ARTHUR
Are you sure?
KNIGHT #1
Come on then!
Knight #2
Fight!
The knights around them start to get rowdy. A crowd has gathered. Adelin looks like she’s about to have another heart attack. Titania and Adelin are trying to pull Arthur and Merlin away to no avail.
A fight is coming.
Merlin looks around for a moment then hastily pulls off his jacket, handing it to Adelin. Adelin has a disgusted look on her face as she drops the jacket.
Arthur and the knights laugh at his determination. One of them hands Arthur a mace which he tosses to Merlin.
ARTHUR
(laughing)
Here you go, big man.
Merlin catches the mace clumsily. Arthur is handed a mace of his own.
Knight #3
Quit toying with him then!
Merlin takes a few practice swings with it. Arthur swings it around with ease, smugly showing off to Merlin and those around him. Adelin looks at Titania for help, but she can only shrug, unable to stop what is happening now. She tenses and looks around anxiously.
ARTHUR
(smug)
I warn you; I’ve been trained to kill since birth.
Merlin rolls his eyes at Arthur’s arrogant display.
MERLIN
Wow, and how long have you been training to be a prat?
Arthur stops swinging his mace and chuckles, looking nervously at the large crowd of citizens surrounding them.
ARTHUR
(tight smile)
You can’t address me like that.
Merlin doesn’t seem to notice Arthur’s nervousness and smirks, looking at the ground.
MERLIN
I’m sorry. How long have you been training to be a prat,
(beat)
my lord?
He bows mockingly, shifting so he looks up at Arthur with a wide grin as he stays bowed down. Titania and Adelin are taken aback and start laughing hysterically.
Arthur grins and swings the mace in a grand gesture. Merlin ducks. Arthur proceeds to chase Merlin around the marketplace.
Merlin stumbles backward, catching the mace in all sorts of places as Arthur stalks after him. Titania and Adelin become serious again and run after them.
ARTHUR
(laughing)
Come on then, Merlin! Come on!
Arthur backs Merlin into the market stalls and the crowd continues to gather. Gaius hears the commotion and looks out the Physician’s Chambers’ window to see Merlin in trouble again. Merlin falls.
Arthur swings the mace and Merlin dodges, but Arthur’s mace knocks over a display of one of the merchants. Arthur continues to stalk after Merlin and destroys more stalls. Titania follows behind them, giving money to the merchants whose stalls are being destroyed as Adelin tries to help them clean up.
Arthur chases Merlin behind the stalls. Merlin falls to the ground. Arthur laughs.
ARTHUR
You’re in trouble now.
Merlin looks around frantically for something to help him. After a moment he sees a row of scythes and uses his magic to tangle Arthur’s mace. It only takes Arthur a moment to untangle his mace but now Merlin grins as he gets up.
He can fight back now.
Merlin continues to walk backward, but he is clearly no longer afraid. He looks around as Arthur comes towards him and uses magic again to move a crate in Arthur’s path. Arthur cries out in pain as his leg goes into the crate. Merlin smirks and looks around for more ways to mess with Arthur.
He ducks behind a few more stalls and grins as Arthur approaches. Arthur destroys more merchants’ products. Titania gives them more money.
Merlin dodges Arthur’s assault and sees some rope on the floor, using his magic to tighten it so Arthur trips over it and falls on the ground.
Arthur is very surprised. Merlin picks up the mace that Arthur had just dropped and swings it. Arthur gets up, looking at Merlin confused.
Now Merlin is advancing, and Arthur is backing up. Merlin grins. Titania and Adelin catch up to them.
MERLIN
Do you want to give up?
ARTHUR
(scoffs)
To you?
MERLIN
(continuing to advance)
Do you? Do you want to give up?
ADELIN
Merlin!
TITANIA
Merlin!
Arthur trips over a bucket and lands on his back, hitting his head hard against the wall. Titania runs over to help him up. Merlin grins triumphantly and looks around the crowd, face falling fast once he sees Gaius.
Arthur nods in thanks at Titania, grabs a broom, and smacks Merlin on the back of the knees, the stomach, and finally on the head. Merlin goes down.
Arthur smirks, flipping the broom back in his hands and sweeping the debris around Merlin. Titania smiles with a small bit of affection. The guards start to pick Merlin up, but Arthur shakes his head.
ARTHUR
Let him go. He may be an idiot, but he’s a brave one.
Arthur pauses and frowns, looking Merlin over.
ARTHUR
(CONT)
There’s something about you, Merlin. I can’t quite put my finger on it.
Titania nods, looking back through the marketplace where they had fought with raised brows.
TITANIA
I’ll second that.
Merlin, now out of danger, is promptly dragged off by Gaius. Arthur, Titania, and Adelin watch as they leave.
INT. GAIUS CHAMBERS- DAY
Merlin walks into the physician’s chambers, followed closely by Gaius. As soon as the door closes, Gaius turns to Merlin.
GAIUS
How could you be so foolish?!
Merlin stops in front of one of the tables. He doesn’t turn to Gaius and just stares ahead.
MERLIN
He needed to be taught a lesson.
Gaius steps forward, looking angrily at the back of Merlin’s head.
GAIUS
Magic must be studied, mastered, and used for good! Not for idiotic pranks!
Merlin turns, hurt by this accusation, and looks down at Gaius.
MERLIN
What is there to master? I could move objects like that before I could talk!
GAIUS
Then, by now, you should know how to control yourself!
MERLIN
(angry)
I don’t want to! If I can’t use magic, what have I got?!
Gaius’s face falls slightly as he looks at Merlin. Merlin looks Gaius dead in the eyes.
MERLIN
(CONT.)
(calmer, teary)
I’m just a nobody, and I always will be. If I can’t use magic, I might as well die.
Gaius sighs, all the anger leaving his body. Merlin goes to storm off into his room but Gaius stops him with a gentle hand on his shoulder. Merlin turns, fighting back tears, and Gaius motions to the bed nearby.
GAIUS
(softly)
Sit down and take off your shirt. Let me look at your back.
Merlin sniffles but sits down on the bed and pulls off his shirt, revealing bad bruises on his back. Gaius grabs his medical bag and sits next to Merlin on the bed. Merlin turns to Gaius as he starts to treat the wounds.
MERLIN
You don’t know why I was born like this, do you?
GAIUS
(sighs)
No.
Merlin looks down at the floor.
MERLIN
(mumble, a slight laugh)
I’m not a monster, am I?
Gaius pauses in his work and looks Merlin in the eyes.
GAIUS
(softly)
Don’t you ever think that!
Merlin sits up and fully turns to Gaius.
MERLIN
(pleading)
Then why am I like this? Please, I need to know why.
Gaius sighs and shifts some of his supplies before he answers.
GAIUS
Maybe there’s someone with more knowledge than me.
Merlin scoffs and slumps back down, sliding his shirt back on.
MERLIN
(overdramatic)
If you can’t tell me, no one can.
Merlin stands up and once again goes to walk into the room. Gaius pours something into a tiny cup and hands it to Merlin.
GAIUS
Take this. It will help with the pain.
Merlin nods, gulps down the contents of the cup, and walks into the room.
INT. MERLIN’S ROOM- DAY
He is immediately embarrassed when he sees Griffin sitting in a chair in front of the wardrobe, playing with their frog habitat, clearly having heard everything he and Gaius had said.
Merlin nods at them as a greeting and wordlessly collapses onto his bed, burying his face into his pillow and trying not to cry. He hears some movement and shuffling feet after a few moments, and something is placed on his bed. He sniffles and turns his head to see what it is.
A small frog with a flower on its head is sitting on his bed next to his shoulder, looking up at him. It blinks as Merlin looks at it then hops over so it’s closer to him. Merlin sniffles again, smiling, and looks over to Griffin.
They are sitting at the desk in the corner of their room, playing with their frog habitat which is no longer in the wardrobe. They feel him looking over, so they turn and smile. Merlin smiles back then lays back down and pets his frog.
INT. ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS- EVENING
Arthur sits at the end of his bed, tilting his head forward to look at his knees. Titania sits behind him on her knees, gently dabbing the back of his head with a cloth, a bowl of water beside her.
Arthur winces as she dabs at his head, the cloth she’s using coming back slightly bloody when she pulls away.
TITANIA
(small smile)
You know, if you just went to Gaius this would probably hurt less.
ARTHUR
(quiet)
I’m fine, Anya, I don’t need Gaius.
Titania rolls her eyes and dabs his head with slightly more pressure, smiling when he hisses in pain.
TITANIA
Sure, that’s why I’m here cleaning blood out of your hair. Why won’t you go to him?
ARTHUR
(scoffs and looks at his hands)
As if I want my father to know I got hurt during that fight today. You heard what he said earlier. I didn’t want to disappoint him any more than I already have.
Titania pauses and sets the cloth down.
TITANIA
Disappoint- Arthur, this
(motions to his injury)
was an accident. I know he was... upset but why would he be disappointed in you?
ARTHUR
I almost let a commoner get the better of me.
Titania bites her lip as if considering saying something, then picks up the cloth and continues to dab Arthur’s head.
TITANIA
You tripped. It was hardly your fault. He was mostly the one who started the fight too, so your father won’t be angry over that.
(beat)
I saw how hard you hit your head. You might have a concussion. Can I please-
Arthur turns, gently grabbing Titania’s hand, and smiles at her.
ARTHUR
I’m not letting you drag me to Gaius. Let it go.
Titania rolls her eyes but concedes. Arthur releases her hand.
TITANIA
Fine, fine, just take a bath or something. If that cut gets infected, you’ll have to have it treated.
ARTHUR
(laughs)
When exactly did you become my mother?
Titania wrings out the cloth then moves the cloth and bowl to Arthur’s bedside table. After she sets them down, she turns to him with a smirk.
TITANIA
Since I have better hygiene than you.
ARTHUR
(rolls his eyes)
You’re one to talk. I notice that you haven’t changed either.
TITANIA
I will have you know that I am going to my room to change right- oh gods.
ARTHUR
(frowns, concerned)
What?
TITANIA
What time is it?
ARTHUR
Close to sunset, why-
TITANIA
I have to go.
Titania looks around the room frantically, grabbing her belt and sword, and puts them on as quickly as she can. She doesn’t look at Arthur as she runs around.
TITANIA
I am supposed to be having dinner with Morgana. I lost track of time after the fight and talking to your father and this- and gods she’s going to kill me.
Arthur relaxes and laughs loudly, loving the predicament that his friend is in.
ARTHUR
Hurry then. God knows you don’t want to keep her waiting.
Titania scoffs in agreement then runs out of Arthur’s room, bumping into the door and swearing. Arthur laughs again and yells after her.
ARTHUR
(CONT.)
Don’t forget to bring flowers!
INT. MORGANA’S CHAMBERS- EVENING
Titania jogs up to Morgana’s room and knocks softly. She has changed into a more elegant (and less sweaty) embroidered shirt and trousers, though she remains in her dirty boots. She also has a small bouquet in her hand, though she quickly shoves it between her knees as she undoes the gross braid and frantically flips her hair over, brushing it through with her fingers to try to make it look slightly nicer. The door opens while she is still bent over and she stands up quickly, spitting hair from her mouth as it curtains her face.
Gwen laughs sweetly as she opens Morgana’s door to see Titania fussing with her hair. She steps out for a moment and helps her subdue the wavy mess, plucking a flower from the bouquet between her knees and tucking it behind her ear. Titania smiles at her.
TITANIA
Thanks, Gwen.
(beat)
Is she mad at me?
Gwen smiles awkwardly, glancing back into the room.
GWEN
Maybe a little.
TITANIA
(winces)
How mad?
GWEN
(laughs)
Why don’t you ask her?
TITANIA
(exaggerated sigh)
Why won’t you help me, Gwen? I thought we were friends.
Gwen just laughs again and steps aside to let Titania in. She walks into the room and looks for Morgana. Morgana is sitting in a chair at her table, which has two plates set, and does not look up from her book as Titania enters.
TITANIA
(CONT.)
I am so sorry that I’m late.
Morgana flips the page dramatically and glances up slightly.
MORGANA
Oh, Sir Titania, how kind of you to grace me with your presence, I hope I didn’t pull you from something too important.
TITANIA
Oh, don’t be like that. I was busy.
Titania holds out her bouquet.
TITANIA
(CONT.)
I brought flowers...
Morgana smiles a little bit but looks back at her book.
MORGANA
They’re very pretty. Not pretty enough to be abandoned by my friend.
Titania laughs and sets the flowers on the table, standing next to Morgana. Gwen smiles and grabs a vase.
TITANIA
I am honestly sorry that I’m so late. Arthur destroyed the marketplace and we got lectured by Uther. You know I would never have abandoned you intentionally.
Morgana bites her lip to hold back a smile.
MORGANA
Oh, it feels like you’re picking favorites. Clearly, you would rather be with Arthur than with me.
She goes back to her book, though she is holding back laughter. Titania raises an eyebrow and shakes her head, kneeling beside Morgana’s chair and grabbing her hand.
TITANIA
(smiling)
Come on, I’m sorry. Obviously, this won’t happen again.
Gwen scoffs quietly, covering it with a cough.
MORGANA
(mock pouting)
No, it won’t.
TITANIA
(grabs her other hand)
I am completely free the rest of the night. I am all yours. I promise.
Gwen walks over, placing the vase with the flowers on the table.
GWEN
Where’s Adelin?
TITANIA
(looking over)
Oh, I gave her the night off. She said she needed to look over some armor she made for Leon. He’s wearing it during the tournament, and she’s worried it won’t fit.
Morgana and Gwen both nod. Morgana looks back at Titania, still kneeling next to her chair.
MORGANA
So you mean it then? The whole night for me?
TITANIA
(laughs)
Yes, I promise. I’m not going anywhere.
MORGANA
(finally grins)
Good.
Morgana grabs Titania’s hands, squeezes them softly, and readjusts the flower in her hair before helping Titania stand up. She grins at her.
MORGANA
(CONT.)
Now please, while you eat, tell us everything that happened at the market today.
INT. COUNCIL CHAMBERS EVENING
Uther and “Lady Helen” dine alone together in the Council Chambers. They are both relaxed and playful, enjoying each other’s company.
UTHER
Will you sing for me tonight?
“LADY HELEN”
(smiles)
You will have to wait, Sire.
UTHER
(leaning forward, pointing his fork at her teasingly)
You will not deny me.
“LADY HELEN”
I am saving myself for my performance tomorrow.
Uther takes a sip from his drink and chuckles.
“LADY HELEN”
(CONT.)
Will everyone be there?
UTHER
Who would dare to miss it?
“LADY HELEN”
(chuckles)
How about your son?
UTHER
(shakes his head)
Well...
“Lady Helen” never takes her eyes off Uther, who doesn’t seem to think anything of this as he eats.
“LADY HELEN”
It seems a shame not to have met him.
UTHER
(shrugs)
That’s Arthur.
“Lady Helen” pauses for a long moment before finally looking away from him and going back to her food.
“LADY HELEN”
(under her breath)
Poor child.
UTHER
(confused but tense)
Hmm?
She regains her composure and smiles, taking a bite of her food and smiling at Uther.
“LADY HELEN”
(sympathetically)
Poor child. It can’t have been easy to- to grow up without a mother.
Uther relaxes and takes a breath, looking down at the mention of his former wife.
UTHER
No.
“LADY HELEN”
(truly sincere)
Hmm. That bond between mother and son, it’s so hard to replace.
UTHER
(dismissive)
Hasn’t been easy.
She is once again staring at him, though now she has a hint of anger in her at how dismissive Uther is being. He isn’t even looking at her.
“LADY HELEN”
(hard)
I’m sure.
He finally looks at her, hearing her tone. She smiles at him, and he smiles back.
“LADY HELEN”
(CONT.)
(playful again)
Perhaps if you found someone...If you remarried.
(laughs)
I’m sure you’d have the pick of any maiden in the kingdom.
UTHER
(laughs)
Well, perhaps I’ll find love again.
(pensive)
But I’m afraid it’s too late to replace Arthur’s mother.
She smiles at this, a private joke to herself. As she speaks next, her words are kind and sympathetic but carry a double meaning that only she knows.
“LADY HELEN”
Yes. It’s certainly too late for Arthur.
She takes another sip of her drink, once again, her eyes never leaving Uther.
INT. MERLIN’S CHAMBERS- NIGHT
Merlin lies awake in bed, Kilgharrah once again invading his mind.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin... Merlin...
Merlin suddenly sits up in bed, looking at the door. He starts to get up, but Griffin’s shifting makes him pause and look over.
Griffin settles and Merlin slowly gets out of bed, putting on his boots and jacket as quietly as he can. Satisfied that he has kept Griffin asleep, he walks out of the room. The creaking of the door wakes up Griffin.
They tiptoe over to the door and open it a crack, smiling as they watch Merlin use magic to pull a blanket over Gaius and leave. Griffin also throws on their shoes and sneaks out, much more adept at this than Merlin.
INT. WROUGHT IRON STAIRCASE- NIGHT
Merlin makes his way around the castle square and into the lower levels of the castle, Griffin hot on his tail.
KILGHARRAH
Merlin...
Merlin pauses on the wrought iron staircase, looking down at a couple of guards playing a game below him. He watches them play for a moment before he uses his magic to knock the dice off the table. The guards look at each other, confused before one of them gets up to retrieve the dice.
Merlin continues to use his magic to knock the dice further and further away from the table. After the first guard has gotten a few feet away, the second finally gets up to see what’s going on. As the two go into another room, Merlin (and Griffin) sneak by. Merlin lights a torch and walks down the tunnel stairway. Griffin follows behind closely.
INT. DRAGON’S CAVE- NIGHT
KILGHARRAH
Merlin... Merlin...
Merlin walks cautiously down the staircase, taking in his surroundings in the firelight. It looks almost as if it used to be a crypt, with various stone carvings of the deceased leaning against the walls and on the floor. Merlin frowns at them before continuing, Griffin doing their best to remain silent as they follow in the dark.
Merlin finally reaches the end of the tunnel and walks through the doorway, entering into the mouth of a massive underground cave. Merlin walks onto the ledge as far as he can, looking around in wonder at the cave before him. Griffin pauses at the doorway, eyes wide in awe, but not wanting to go any further less Merlin catches them.
Merlin looks around confused as Kilgharrah begins to chuckle off-screen. Merlin looks down onto the bottom of the cave.
MERLIN
Where are you?
Kilgharrah growls and flies up from below, a cacophony of flapping wings and rattling chains and he flies up to perch on a rock somewhat close to where Merlin stands, landing with a THUD. Merlin gasps and stumbles backward until he hits a wall and Griffin slams their hands over their mouth, so their gasp isn’t audible.
KILGHARRAH
(grins)
I’m here.
Standing before them is a giant, beautiful dragon. His scales simmer as if made from pure emeralds. His eyes burn like golden fire and seem to hold within them ancient wisdom. He carries himself with regality and maybe arrogance. Merlin looks terrified for a moment before he takes in the dragon in front of him and takes a calm step forward.
KILGHARRAH
(CONT.)
(smiles)
How small you are, for such a great destiny.
MERLIN
Why? What do you mean? What destiny?
KILGHARRAH
Your gift, Merlin, was given to you for a reason.
Merlin relaxes, looking up at Kilgharrah with overflowing hope.
MERLIN
So there is a reason.
KILGHARRAH
Arthur is the Once and Future King who will unite the land of Albion. It is he who will bring magic back to the land.
MERLIN
(frowns, disbelieving)
Right...
KILGHARRAH
But he faces many threats from friends and foes alike.
MERLIN
(confused, almost angry)
I don’t see what this has to do with me.
KILGHARRAH
Everything. Without you, Arthur will never succeed. Without you, there will be no Albion. Magic will continue to be banished from the realm.
MERLIN
(angry, denial)
No. No, you’ve got this wrong.
KILGHARRAH
There is no right or wrong, only what is and what isn’t.
Merlin is absolutely angry at this point, waving around dramatically with his arms and the torch.
MERLIN
I’m serious! If anyone wants to go and kill him, they can go ahead. In fact, I’ll give them a hand.
Griffin scoffs quietly.
KILGHARRAH
(Laughs)
None of us can choose our destiny, Merlin,
(softly)
and none of us can escape it.
Merlin pauses for a moment then shakes his head, not wanting to accept this. That his purpose is to serve someone else.
MERLIN
No. No way. No. No. There must be another Arthur because this one’s an idiot.
KILGHARRAH
(smiles)
Perhaps it’s your destiny to change that.
Kilgharrah flies off, effectively ending the conversation.
MERLIN
(desperate)
Wait! Wait! Wait, stop! No, I- I need to know more!
Merlin waits for a few moments to see if Kilgharrah comes back. He doesn’t. Merlin groans. Griffin runs off before Merlin finally gives up and walks back to the room.
As Merlin leaves, a different voice speaks softly from the shadows.
MYSTERIOUS VOICE
Patience, young warlock. All will be well.
Merlin pauses for a moment, looking to see if the dragon has returned. When he sees no one, he frowns and leaves.
INT. MERLIN’S CHAMBERS- EARLY MORNING
Gaius walks into Merlin and Griffin’s room and immediately makes a face. It is a complete mess. Clothes and food cover the floor. Gaius groans and walks over to Merlin.
GAIUS
Oi!
Merlin groans and wakes up. Griffin also wakes up.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
Have you seen the state of this room?!
MERLIN
(sheepish grin)
It just happens.
Griffin giggles. Gaius raises his eyebrow.
GAIUS
By magic?
GRIFFIN
(Smiles)
Yeah!
GAIUS
Yes... Well, you can both clear it up without magic.
Gaius hands Merlin a piece of parchment with a list on it.
GAIUS
(CONT)
And then I want Merlin to get me some herbs: henbane, wormwood, and sorrel. And deliver these to Morgana and Titania.
He hands Merlin two small bottles.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
(small sigh)
Poor girls. Morgana’s suffering from nightmares and Titania’s suffering from headaches.
Gaius picks up a pile of clothes and throws them at Merlin and Griffin with a smile before leaving the room. Merlin throws the clothes back onto the floor and shakes his head.
MERLIN
(Mumble)
I know the feeling.
Griffin chuckles a little and gets up, also throwing their clothes back onto the floor. It takes a few minutes of grumbling for the two of them to wake up and start cleaning.
It’s quiet for a while as they slowly clean the room, but after the gift of the frog (happily in his own habitat beside Merlin’s bed) an understanding passed between them. While Griffin had initially disliked and distrusted Merlin, now a budding friendship grows between them. There was still slight awkwardness there, but it was much more comfortable now. They get a good amount done when Griffin breaks the silence.
GRIFFIN
So... you snuck out last night.
Merlin tenses slightly and slowly put his clothes into the wardrobe.
MERLIN
What? No, I-
Griffin raises an eyebrow in a way that evokes Gaius. Merlin shudders.
GRIFFIN
Really? You did it so badly that I woke up and followed you and-
MERLIN
You followed me?!
Griffin waves him off dismissively, evoking Adelin.
GRIFFIN
Yes, I followed you. I’m sneaky. The point of “sneaking out” is being sneaky! And the point here is that you snuck out to talk to a dragon. And you didn’t bring me.
Merlin laughs and looks at Griffin.
MERLIN
For one, I had no idea a dragon was calling me. For another, just to get this right, what upsets you about this is that I snuck out in the middle of the night and didn’t bring you?
Griffin nods as if to say of course, and Merlin laughs again, fully relaxing now.
MERLIN
(CONT.)
Fine, the next time I sneak out I promise that I’ll bring you.
Griffin grins and sits on their bed, looking at Merlin.
GRIFFIN
So your destiny is to protect Arthur?
MERLIN
(scoffs)
According to a dragon.
(sighs)
What does he know?
Griffin swings their legs off the edge of their bed as they talk, leaning their elbows on their knees.
GRIFFIN
I don’t know. Destiny sounds... stressful but he was a dragon. He has to know something, right? The rest of it sounded kind of cool. Uniting Albion. Brining back magic. Those are good things!
(frowns)
You have to protect Arthur though so... that’s a downside. It would be better if it was Sir Titania. Or Lady Morgana. At least they’re nice.
MERLIN
(chuckles)
Yeah, major downside.
(beat)
Come on, we should finish cleaning before Gaius comes back and yells at us.
INT. MORGANA’S CHAMBERS- AFTERNOON
Merlin jogs through the castle and up to Morgana’s room, waving to Gwen as he runs by. The door is slightly open, so he pushes his way in. Morgana is currently changing behind a screen. Titania is lounging in her bed.
Merlin walks in during the middle of their conversation. Titania smiles and goes to say hi to Merlin when Morgana starts talking again.
MORGANA
You know, Annie, I’ve been thinking about Arthur.
(beat)
I wouldn’t touch him with a lance pole.
Titania starts laughing. Morgana looks over and smiles, happy to be the cause of her laughter. Even Merlin smiles a little.
MORGANA
(CONT.)
Pass me that dress, will you Gwen?
Merlin says nothing and looks around in a slight panic before he hands her the dress. Titania chuckles a little bit.
MORGANA
(CONT.)
I mean, the man’s a total jouster. And just because we’re the king’s wards, that doesn’t mean we have to accompany him to the feast, does it, Gwen?
Titania chuckles, watching Merlin who looks trapped in this situation. Morgana turns after “Gwen” doesn’t answer, looking for her over the top of the screen.
MORGANA
(CONT.)
(worried)
Well, does it?
Merlin ducks under the screen, glaring at Titania who is just lying there chuckling.
MERLIN
(High pitched mumble)
Mm-Mmm.
Merlin walks around the room, panicked, looking at Titania to help him. She bites her lip, holding back a smile, and shakes her head. He glares.
TITANIA
(trying not to laugh)
Gwen’s right. It’s not fair for people to put that kind of pressure on us just because we know him.
MORGANA
(changing into her dress)
If he wants either of us to go with him, then he should invite us, and he hasn’t. So, do you know what that means, Gwen?
Merlin starts to walk over to Titania to give her the bottles but drops them when he trips. He chases them for a moment but stops running around the room, pausing to lean on a chair as Morgana addresses Gwen again. Titania is struggling not to laugh.
MERLIN
(High pitched mumble)
Mmm?
MORGANA
(turns again)
Where are you?
Merlin hides behind a cape that’s draped over a chair. Titania finally cracks and starts laughing. Morgana looks over at her, confused and Titania shakes her head.
MERLIN
(High pitched)
Here.
MORGANA
It means I’m going by myself.
She turns to look at Titania, smirking.
MORGANA
(CONT.)
Unless a certain chivalrous knight takes pity on me.
TITANIA
(laughs, shifting on the bed)
Oh? Any knight in particular? Sir Benievere? Sir Galavant? Not Sir Leon, surely?
Morgana laughs and Merlin starts looking around for the bottles that brought him here in the first place, completely ignoring the conversation.
MORGANA
Mmm well none of them. They’re not really my type. I was thinking of someone...shorter.
TITANIA
(laughs again)
Are you trying to start a scandal? We cannot show up to this feast together.
MORGANA
(mischievously)
And why not? There’s no law against friends going together and besides... I think we’d make a striking couple. And you do owe me that favor...
TITANIA
(smiles)
Lady Morgana, if you want to accompany me to the feast, all you have to do is ask.
Morgana just laughs and turns away. Titania shakes her head.
MORGANA
Gwen, I need help with this fastening.
TITANIA
(bites her lip)
Yeah, Gwen, can you help her?
Merlin looks like he is going to kill Titania. He gets back up, thankfully having found the potion bottles, and looks at her, mouthing ‘what am I supposed to do?’
She laughs and gets up to help Morgana when Gwen finally walks back into the room, very confused as to what is going on.
MORGANA
Gwen?
GWEN
I’m here.
(Mouths at Merlin)
What are you doing here?
He motions to Morgana and Titania then Gwen and laughs silently. Gwen laughs as well. Merlin throws the vials at Titania and leaves, smiling a little bit to himself. Titania waves him goodbye.
Gwen helps Morgana change. Titania leans against the table, looking at the vials as Morgana and Gwen walk out from behind the screen.
MORGANA
So, it’s whether I wear this little tease...
Morgana does a small twirl in the dress she is currently wearing. It is a beautiful blue gown with a sheer purple long-sleeved bodice. It’s gorgeous but modest.
MORGANA
(CONT.)
...or give them a night they’ll really remember.
She grins and pulls out a strapless maroon dress, a thick gold chain wraps around the neck and the waist had delicate gold leaf detailing around it. Still beautiful, but less modest than the other.
Titania swallows a little, looking between the two dresses and Morgana. She can’t really say much and Morgana grins. Titania finally goes to say something when Adelin knocks in the doorway and saves her.
ADELIN
Titania? Here you are, I have been looking everywhere for you! Come on we need to get you dressed.
TITANIA
(nods and hastily joins Adelin)
Right, right. See you at the feast!
INT. “LADY HELEN’S” GUEST CHAMBERS- NIGHT
The serving girl, Bronwen, brings a bowl of fruit to “Lady Helen’s” guest chambers and knocks nervously. “Lady Helen” opens the door.
BRONWEN
(curtsies)
Lady Helen. Compliments of the King.
“LADY HELEN”
(smiles)
Come in.
“Lady Helen” steps aside and allows Bronwen to step in. She looks beautiful, wearing a gorgeous yellow (almost golden) gown. Her hair is meticulously styled in a high bun, with a long curl down the back. She looks ready to perform.
As Bronwen sets the fruit down, “Lady Helen” picks up an apple and takes a bite.
“LADY HELEN”
(CONT.)
So sweet. How will I ever repay him?
Her words are sweet, but her expression is completely void of any emotion. Bronwen is too starstruck to notice. She rambles excitedly as she walks around, picking up the room.
BRONWEN
When he hears you sing. Well, that will be more than enough, won’t it? I’m really looking forward to the performance.
“LADY HELEN”
So am I.
The disparity between Bronwen’s excitement and “Lady Helen’s emotionlessness is unnerving. She takes another bite of the apple and watches Bronwen going around cleaning the room.
BRONWEN
I love singing, you know. I sing all the time. My betrothed says I have the voice of a fallen angel.
Bronwen leans over the vanity and removes the cloth over the mirror. Mary Collins’s true reflection is shown in the reflection.
Bronwen’s eyes widen, and she turns to look at “Lady Helen”. She nonchalantly lowers the apple from her mouth, expression still unchanging, and grabs Bronwen as the girl tries to leave. She grips the girl’s wrist tightly.
“LADY HELEN”
Ssshhhh.
She does nothing audible but stares Bronwen in the eyes. Her grip on the girl’s wrist tightens and Bronwen gasps, slowly sinking to the ground and growing paler and paler as the life is drained from her.
After she dies, “Lady Helen” drops her body and takes another bite of the apple, looking at herself in the mirror. She remains emotionless.
INT. BANQUET HALL- NIGHT
Court members gather in the Banquet Hall. Everyone is dressed beautifully, the tables are filled with mountains of food, and the multitude of flickering candles gives the room a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Gaius and Merlin enter. Merlin sees Arthur joking with his friends and frowns. He is clearly reenacting their fight from the other day, to almost all the knights’ amusement.
Arthur stops completely as Morgana and Titania walk into the room, followed closely by Gwen and Adelin.
Morgana has her hair pinned up loosely in a bun, decorated with a small golden circlet across her forehead. She chose to wear the maroon dress and has a matching silk wrap draped over her elbows. She also has put a small red gem on her cheek.
Titania is also wearing a strapless dress, a deep sapphire blue. The top is tighter, looking almost like a corset, and woven into the stomach are sparkling silver embellishments that invoke an image of armor. The skirt is flowing, plain silk, and across her shoulders is a small shawl made from the same silver embellishments as the dress. Her hair is also done up in a ponytail braid, only decorated with a silver pin at the base.
Both women look stunning, especially as a pair and all the men stare as they walk by. Arthur does a double take seeing Titania.
ARTHUR
(mumbling)
God have mercy.
Merlin also stares at Morgana as they walk by. Gaius nudges him.
GAIUS
Merlin. Remember, you’re here to work.
MERLIN
Oh, yeah.
Merlin continues to stare at Morgana as Arthur approaches to talk to her and Titania. Gwen and Adelin slide up next to Merlin.
ARTHUR
Titania, you look... well.
TITANIA
(laughs)
Thank you...I think.
Morgana laughs and loops her arm around Titania’s. Arthur looks over at her.
MORGANA
She looks well? That’s the best that you can do?
ARTHUR
(Rolls his eyes)
Well, she does, what else should I have said, Morgana?
MORGANA
(Smirks)
Anything other than well. Honestly, Arthur, do you even know how to talk to women? You haven’t even said anything to me.
Arthur goes to argue with Morgana when another knight walks over, coughing politely to get Arthur’s attention. A few of the other knights Arthur was just talking to walk over as well and Arthur smiles at them. He puts his arm around the shoulders of the first man and looks back at the two women.
ARTHUR
Right, I’m being rude. Ladies, this is Prince Jorah Glass. Jorah, this is Sir Titania and... Lady Morgana. This is his first time in Camelot. He came with Sir Ewan.
PRINCE JORAH, 18, average height with long black hair and brown eyes, smiles and bows to them, kissing Morgana’s hand and looking at Titania. She bows in return and smiles warmly at him.
TITANIA
It’s truly an honor to finally meet a member of the Gloine family. I hope you enjoy your stay in Camelot.
Jorah smiles and when he speaks, he has a soft Irish accent.
JORAH
I hate to disagree with you, my lady, but the honor is mine. I’ve heard many a tale of Camelot’s infamous female knight..
TITANIA
(Laughs, blushes)
Please, your highness, I wouldn’t say I’m famous.
Jorah shrugs and smiles, holding out his hand.
JORAH
Regardless, I still consider it to be an honor.
Titania smiles and takes his hand, grabbing his forearm as he grabs hers. They lock eyes for a moment before he pulls away and addresses her and Arthur.
JORAH
(CONT.)
I look forward to watching you both compete in the tournament tomorrow.
Titania smiles and lets go of his hand, smiling at the other knights. Another knight, Sir Ewan, laughs.
EWAN
(also Irish accented)
Aren’t we all? Jorah and I aren’t the only competitors curious about how our lady here will do during her first tournament.
(grins at Arthur)
Perhaps she may usurp the reigning champion.
Ewan laughs as Titania lightly smacks his arm. Arthur chuckles.
TITANIA
I’m sure you all have nothing to worry about.
Morgana smiles and shakes her head.
MORGANA
Oh, she’s being modest. I think this tournament will be something to behold.
Titania blushes. Arthur nods and takes a sip of his drink.
ARTHUR
Hear, hear.
(Cut to)
Adelin, Gwen, and Merlin standing off to the side, watching the others talk.
ADELIN
(smiles, proud)
They look great, don’t they?
MERLIN
(staring at Morgana)
Yeah. Titania’s dress is certainly causing a stir.
GWEN
(Laughs)
That is because Adelin doesn’t know how to be subtle when making dresses.
ADELIN
(Laughs, blushing)
Oh, shush, you.
GWEN
(shakes her head)
Some people are just born to be queen.
Merlin looks away from the group and over to Adelin and Gwen.
MERLIN
(surprised)
No! Morgana or Titania?
GWEN
(laughs)
Either I suppose, but I meant Titania. I hope she’ll be queen one day.
(quickly)
Not that I would want to be her.
Merlin looks at her quizzically and Gwen laughs again and makes a face of disgust.
GWEN
Who’d want to marry Arthur?
Adelin and Merlin both laugh.
MERLIN
(teasing)
Oh, come on, Gwen. I thought you liked those real rough, tough, save the world kind of men.
GWEN
No, I like much more ordinary men like you.
Adelin coughs.
MERLIN
(chuckles)
Gwen, believe me, I’m not ordinary.
GWEN
(panicked, awkward)
No, I didn’t mean you,
(beat)
obviously. Not you.
(beat)
But just, you know, I like much more ordinary men
(beat)
like you.
MERLIN
(amused but also unsure)
Thanks...
It’s awkward now. Gwen and Merlin turn away from each other. Adelin is loving the awkward tension. It is very quiet between them now and she looks around the room, confused. Adelin looks at Gwen.
ADELIN
Do you see Bronwen?
Gwen frowns, looking around the room.
GWEN
(shakes her head)
No. Why?
ADELIN
(sighs)
I was supposed to meet her tonight so I could show her the ropes a little.
(beat)
Excuse me, I have to go find her.
Gwen and Merlin nod at Adelin as she walks away and out of the hall.
INT. “LADY HELEN’S” GUEST CHAMBERS- NIGHT
“Lady Helen” sits at the vanity, putting the last of her outfit together, tucking her amber necklace into the front of her dress. She hums eerily to herself, getting up slowly. Her face remains blank as she hums, stopping only when she fully stands. She exits the room slowly, stepping nonchalantly over Bronwen’s body, barely sparing it a passing glance.
She walks slowly, still humming, through the balcony hallway on her way to the banquet hall. She passes Adelin, who is talking to another servant. “Lady Helen” does not look at her, though the sight of “Lady Helen” causes Adelin to pause in her conversation.
Adelin watches her walk by for a moment before she thanks the servant and heads down the hall. Soon she reaches her destination, “Lady Helen’s” chamber. She knocks but walks in when no one answers.
ADELIN
(softly)
Bronwen? Are you-
She stops when her foot hits something on the floor.
Poor Bronwen.
Adelin drops to her knees, checking the girl’s pulse, and swearing when there is none. Then she gets up and RUNS back to the banquet hall.
INT. BANQUET HALL- NIGHT
Horns sound and announce Uther as he walks into the hall. Everyone shuffles to their spots at the tables. Arthur, Titania, and Morgana follow Uther to the small head table. Arthur sits to his father’s right with Titania sitting next to him. Morgana sits to Uther’s left, and beside her sits Sir Leon. Once everyone has settled, Uther stands and addresses the room.
UTHER
We have enjoyed twenty years of peace and prosperity. It has brought the kingdom and myself many pleasures, but few can compare with the honor of introducing Lady Helen of Mora.
Uther bows and sits back down. Everyone claps and sits down, waiting for the concert to start. Only Merlin notices when Adelin runs in breathless and goes to Titania.
ADELIN
(whispering)
I need to talk to you.
Titania looks at Adelin confused.
TITANIA
(whisper)
Can it wait?
Adelin shakes her head aggressively and grabs Titania’s wrist.
ADELIN
NOW.
Titania nods and gets up from the table, following Adelin out into the hallway. Arthur watches them confused but turns his attention back to the stage.
[Cut between the banquet hall and Adelin talking to Titania.]
“Lady Helen” begins to sing an incantation. It is truly beautiful and almost haunting. Everyone in the room is captivated.
ADELIN
Bronwen is dead.
“Lady Helen” continues to sing, singularly focused on the main table as she walks forward. The room is still captivated but seems to be getting drowsy.
TITANIA
I- what?
Everyone in the room begins to fall asleep the longer the song goes on. Those sitting lay their heads down on the table. Those standing, like Morris beside Merlin, slowly sink down to the floor. Merlin’s eyes widen watching this and he quickly covers his ears.
ADELIN
I asked and the last place she was seen was Lady Helen’s chambers. I checked there and found her body, completely drained of life.
“Lady Helen” sings with growing intensity, eyes fixed on Arthur. All around her, cobwebs begin to appear and spread over every surface in the room. She doesn’t react to this, continuing her slow walk to the main table. Merlin follows her gaze and sees her staring at Arthur. His eyes widen as she pulls out a knife and he freezes, unsure what to do.
ADELIN
I think Helen is using magic. I have no idea why.
Titania pauses for a moment, thinking before her eyes widen.
TITANIA
(softly)
Arthur.
She takes off running to the banquet hall, Adelin following confused. They run back into the room just as “Lady Helen” reaches the climax of her song, raising the knife over her head.
Merlin looks over as they run in. Titania looks around panicked before seeing the rope for the chandelier. She pulls a sword from a sleeping guard beside her and slices through the rope, causing it to crash down on “Lady Helen”.
Her spell is broken and everyone in the room starts to wake up. Titania runs over to Arthur, pulling off the webs from him and checking to make sure he’s okay. Adelin walks over to check on Sir Leon.
The court members and servants all look around confused and pull the cobwebs from their faces and bodies. Uther and Arthur both stand up, Arthur looking at Titania.
Mary, now looking like herself, lies mortally injured under the chandelier. She grabs the knife that she dropped and throws it towards Arthur.
Uther watches in horror.
Arthur stares with wide eyes.
Titania pushes Arthur behind her.
Merlin’s eyes flash gold and time slows again, giving Merlin time to run over and grab both Arthur and Titania, pulling them out of the way. The three of them fall to the floor.
Time resumes to normal, Mary’s knife lodges hilt deep into Arthur’s chair, and she collapses back to the floor, dead.
All eyes in the room are on Merlin.
Arthur and Merlin stand, both offering a hand to help Titania up. Titania smiles gratefully at Merlin, and he smiles back at her. Arthur looks at him stunned. Uther approaches them.
UTHER
(to Merlin)
You just saved their lives. A debt must be repaid.
MERLIN
(unsure what to do with the attention)
Oh, well...
UTHER
(earnestly)
Don’t be so modest. You shall be rewarded.
MERLIN
(smiles but shakes his head)
No, honestly, you don’t have to, Your Highness.
UTHER
No, absolutely. This merits something quite special.
MERLIN
(looks down, humbly)
Well...
UTHER
(grandly)
You shall be rewarded a position in the royal household.
Merlin smiles to himself. Arthur looks between Merlin and his father, confused. Titania chuckles to herself, knowing where this is going. Uther pats Arthur on the shoulder.
UTHER
(CONT.)
(proud of his generosity)
You shall be Prince Arthur’s manservant.
Uther walks off. Merlin’s smile drops. Titania laughs. Arthur looks stunned. The court applauds.
ARTHUR
Father!
Gaius chuckles, proud. Gwen has a pitying smile on her face. Adelin is laughing, Sir Leon nudging her to stop. Titania puts an arm around both Merlin and Arthur, who look away from each other.
INT. MERLIN’S CHAMBERS- NIGHT
Griffin is laughing, having just been told what happened at the feast by Merlin. Merlin shakes his head.
MERLIN
(tired smile)
It’s not funny, Griffin. I don’t want to be his servant.
GRIFFIN
(giggles)
That is exactly why this is funny. I can’t-
A knock at the door silences Griffin and Gaius walks into their room. He smiles a little bit at the two of them and sits in a nearby chair.
GAIUS
Seems you’re a hero.
MERLIN
(small laugh)
Hard to believe, isn’t it?
Gaius shakes his head.
GAIUS
No. I knew it from the moment I met you.
Merlin looks over at Gaius with a frown. Griffin also looks at Gaius.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
When you saved my life, remember?
Merlin is even more confused.
MERLIN
But...that was magic.
GAIUS
(nods)
And now, it seems, we finally found a use for it.
Merlin just stares.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
I saw how you saved Arthur and Titania’s lives.
Merlin starts to shake his head, but Gaius continues.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
Perhaps that’s its purpose.
Merlin glances at Griffin and sighs.
GRIFFIN
Your destiny...
Griffin walks over to Merlin’s bed, sitting next to him and hugging him.
GAIUS
(smiles, proud)
Indeed.
Gaius pauses then pulls out an old leather book from some cloth wrappings. He stands up and gives it to Merlin, almost nervously as if Merlin might reject his gift. Merlin takes it with a bewildered look.
GAIUS
(CONT.)
This book was given to me when I was your age, but I have a feeling it will be of more use to you than it was to me.
Merlin gives Gaius a quizzical look but slowly unlatches the locks on the cover and starts looking through the book. Griffin reads the book from Merlin’s side. Gaius smiles like a proud parent at the two kids.
They look through the book, beautifully detailed and illustrated, and Merlin’s smile grows wide the more he looks through it. Gaius grins as well. Merlin looks up at Gaius.
MERLIN
But... this is a book of magic.
GAIUS
(nods)
Which is why you must keep it hidden.
Merlin nods and grins wide, looking back down at the book.
MERLIN
I will study every word.
The three smile at each other, a happy family, when someone knocks. They all look over as a guard opens the door.
GUARD
Merlin? Prince Arthur wants to see you.
Merlin sighs and nods. Gaius chuckles. The guard leaves.
GAIUS
Your destiny’s calling. You’d better find out what he wants.
GRIFFIN
(mumbles)
He probably needs help taking the stick out of his ass.
Gaius looks over at Griffin in shock and horror, unable to say anything. Merlin laughs, shifts his jacket, and leaves to see what Arthur wants.
