BBC Merlin: 3x10 Queen of Hearts
<<< EPISODE 3x09 │ EPISODE 3x11 >>>
KILGHARRAH
In a land of myth and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of a young boy. His name: Merlin.
--
[00:13, INT. KING’S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - DAY]
[The doors open to reveal Gwen dressed in a rich, purple and gold gown, walking down the aisle between the knights and courtiers of Camelot. Gwen kneels on the dais before King Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
By the sacred laws vested in me, I pronounce you Guinevere, Queen of Camelot.
[Arthur crowns her, takes her hand and they each sit on a throne.]
--
[01:17, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Morgana wakes and looks at her healing bracelet. She goes to the window.]
GWEN
Is everything alright, My Lady?
MORGANA
I'm fine. It's late. You should go to bed.
GWEN
Goodnight.
MORGANA
Goodnight, Gwen.
--
[02:32, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDORS - NIGHT]
[Morgana walks in the castle.]
MORGAUSE (echoing whisper)
Sister. Sister.
[A door opens near Morgana.]
MORGAUSE (echoing whisper)
Sister, this way.
[A torch lights.]
MORGAUSE (echoing whisper)
Sister.
[Morgana takes the torch.]
MORGAUSE (echoing whisper)
Sister. This way.
[Morgana enters a chamber and Morgause appears behind her.]
MORGAUSE
Hello, Sister.
[They hug.]
MORGANA
I can't tell you how good it is to see you.
MORGAUSE
I received your message. Tell me about these dreams that are so troubling to you.
MORGANA
They show a ceremony in Camelot. It's my serving girl, Gwen, she sits beside Arthur on a throne. She's crowned queen. I see the same thing night after night.
MORGAUSE
There are some dreams that are so powerful your healing bracelet will not stop them. It is a prophecy.
MORGANA
How can that be? She's a servant. Uther would never allow Arthur to marry her.
MORGAUSE
There are many futures, Sister. Some are shrouded in mist, and others are clear as cut glass. But your gift is powerful, and this vision cannot be ignored. You cannot allow this serving girl to take your rightful place upon the throne. Whatever relationship exists between Arthur and Gwen, you must destroy it.
--
[04:25, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Gwen arranges breakfast, while Morgana stares at her. Gwen looks up and gasps.]
GWEN
You startled me. You're up early this morning.
MORGANA
I...I couldn't sleep. I went for a walk.
GWEN
Did you want to change?
MORGANA
No. Have you spoken to Arthur recently?
GWEN
I saw him yesterday in the market.
MORGANA
It must be hard.
GWEN
What's that?
MORGANA
Hiding your feelings for him.
GWEN
I'm not sure what you mean.
MORGANA
I know how you feel about Arthur and how he feels about you. Do you deny it?
[Morgana takes Gwen's hand.]
MORGANA
It's such a shame you can't be more open about your feelings for each other.
[Gwen pulls her hand away.]
GWEN
If you'll excuse me, My Lady.
--
[05:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Gwen and Merlin serve the royal family breakfast.]
UTHER
What news from the northern borders?
ARTHUR
There've been a number of minor skirmishes.
[Arthur accidentally touches Gwen's hand when she reaches to pour his drink. Morgana glares.]
UTHER
You think Odin is testing our defences?
[Arthur stares admiringly at Gwen.]
UTHER
Arthur, are you listening?
ARTHUR
What's that?
[Arthur reaches forward and accidentally knocks over his cup.]
UTHER
What on earth is wrong with you?
[Gwen rushes to clean it up. Merlin smiles. Morgana grimaces.]
ARTHUR
Nothing. Sorry.
--
[05:55, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Arthur sits at the table, staring at parchment and twirling a feather pen. He looks up when the door creaks open and Morgana peeks in.]
ARTHUR
Morgana.
MORGANA
Arthur, am I disturbing you?
ARTHUR
No. Come in. To what do I owe this pleasure?
MORGANA
Well, I was worried about you. You weren't yourself at dinner.
ARTHUR
Just a bit tired.
MORGANA
Really? I thought the reason you were so distracted had something to do with the fact that Gwen was in the room.
ARTHUR
I have no idea what you're talking about.
MORGANA
Come on, Arthur. Why can't you admit you have feelings for her? A blind man could see it.
ARTHUR
Is it really that obvious?
MORGANA
It's only so obvious to me because...I know Gwen also has feelings for you.
ARTHUR
Has she said something?
MORGANA
She speaks of you all the time.
ARTHUR
What did she say?
MORGANA
You're already arrogant enough. I will flatter you no further. Poor girl, I fear she doesn't know what to do with herself when she's around you.
ARTHUR
She's not alone. I have such feelings for her, and yet I know nothing can ever come of them.
MORGANA
If it's Gwen who you desire, why do you deny yourself?
ARTHUR
Because she's a servant. My father would have me marry for the good of the kingdom.
MORGANA
Uther knows nothing of love. You are the future king; you must set your own rules. Besides, he doesn't have to find out. You should spend some time with Gwen. I know she'd like that.
--
[07:34, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE - DAY]
[Gwen drops firewood into a basket.]
GWEN
Arthur wishes to spend the day with me?
MERLIN
I thought you'd be happy.
GWEN
It isn't that simple. If anyone were to find out...What if someone sees us?
MERLIN
I'll take you to meet him outside the city. Arthur's willing to take the risk...if you are.
[Gwen ponders, unsure.]
MERLIN
Should I tell him you won't meet him?
GWEN
No.
[Merlin puts his hands on Gwen shoulders, amused by her vacillating.]
MERLIN
You forget, he's Prince Arthur, and that he can be a spoiled, arrogant brat.
GWEN (laughs)
Merlin.
MERLIN (laughs)
Sorry.
[Gwen continues her dilemma.]
MERLIN
You like him.
GWEN
Yes.
MERLIN
He likes you.
GWEN
Mm-hmm.
MERLIN
Isn't that all that really matters?
GWEN
I suppose it is.
[Merlin turns to exit.]
MERLIN
Then I will come back in the morning.
[Gwen follows him, still nervous. Merlin pauses at the door and gives her a "relax" gesture. she smiles and half-twirls in anticipation.]
--
[08:35, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gwen folds down Morgana's bed.]
GWEN
Will there be anything else?
MORGANA
No, that'll be all.
[Gwen walks towards the door and spins back around.]
GWEN
I was hoping it might be possible to be relieved of my duties tomorrow.
MORGANA
Really? And why is that?
GWEN
I fear I'm sickening with a fever.
MORGANA
Of course.
GWEN
Thank you.
[Gwen smiles, curtsies, and leaves. Morgana smirks into her mirror.]
--
[09:16, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE - DAY]
[Gwen looks herself over in the mirror. Merlin knocks and enters. Gwen comes out from behind the curtain and Merlin stares at her.]
GWEN
What?
MERLIN
You look lovely.
[Gwen sighs in relief.]
GWEN
Oh.
--
[09:41, EXT. PICNIC IN THE WOODS - DAY]
[Arthur gazes in a silver platter to fix his hair and eyebrows. Merlin and Gwen approach from behind, giggling.]
MERLIN
Shh.
[Merlin cups his hands around his mouth.]
MERLIN
Caw! Caw!
[Arthur drops the platter as he turns around. Gwen and Merlin walk to the stream that separates them from Arthur.]
ARTHUR
Guinevere, you look...
[Arthur stares at her, speechless.]
MERLIN
I think he's trying to say you look nice.
[Gwen chuckles.]
ARTHUR
Thank you, Merlin. That'll be all.
MERLIN
Have fun.
[Merlin leaves. Gwen crosses the stream on stepping stones. Arthur takes her hand as she nears and helps her over. Morgana watches them from a distance, smirks, and rides off.]
--
[10:28, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Uther pours Morgana's drink at the dining table.]
MORGANA
It's such a beautiful day, I was wondering if you might join me for a ride.
UTHER
I have council matters to attend to.
MORGANA
It's just, I get to spend so little time with you these days. Time together is...so precious to me.
UTHER
You're right. We don't spend enough time together. The council can wait.
[Morgana and Uther toast.]
--
[11:05, EXT. PICNIC IN THE WOODS - DAY]
[Gwen reaches to serve the plates. Arthur takes it from her.]
ARTHUR
You are not here as a servant.
[Arthur begins to fill her plate and Gwen sits down.]
GWEN
It feels different, doesn't it? Being away from Camelot?
ARTHUR
I love Camelot more than I can say, but when I'm there, sometimes I feel I can hardly breathe
everyone expects so much of me. Being here with you? I can be myself.
GWEN
I like that, you being yourself.
ARTHUR
Sometimes I dream of leaving Camelot.
GWEN
Really? Where would you go?
ARTHUR
I don't know. Somewhere where nobody knew who I was. I'd get some land and become a farmer.
[Gwen laughs.]
GWEN
I can hardly see you toiling away in the fields all day.
ARTHUR
Obviously I'd take Merlin with me; he can do all the hard work.
GWEN
I'm sure he'd love that.
[Arthur hands Gwen the plate.]
GWEN
Thank you.
--
[12:04, EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY]
[Morgana and Uther out for a ride.]
UTHER
I'm glad you persuaded me to come. We must do this again.
MORGANA
I'd like that very much. Come on, I'll race you.
--
[12:18, EXT. PICNIC IN THE WOODS - DAY]
[Gwen and Arthur recline on pillows.]
GWEN
We should be heading back to Camelot soon.
ARTHUR
We could stay a while longer. Don't know when we'll have the chance to do this again.
GWEN
Perhaps when you become a farmer we can be together more often.
ARTHUR
That's just a dream. I fear I will never leave Camelot... Stay still.
GWEN
Is it bandits?
[Arthur reaches toward his sword, picks up a glove and grabs at something over Gwen's head. She ducks under his arm and gasps.]
ARTHUR
A wasp.
[Arthur grins. Gwen lets out a puff of laughter and kisses Arthur.]
--
[13:15, EXT. PICNIC IN THE WOODS - DAY]
[A shot of horses' hooves. Arthur and Gwen are startled out of their make out session when Morgana and Uther ride up. Gwen gasps.]
UTHER
Arthur!
--
[13:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Arthur paces. Uther enters with a blank expression, then guffaws as he approaches Arthur. Uther slaps Arthur on the shoulder. Perplexed, Arthur starts laughing too.]
ARTHUR
I thought you'd be furious.
UTHER
I was young once, I'm more than familiar with the temptations of serving girls.
ARTHUR
I'm sorry I kept it from you. I thought it for the best.
UTHER
No serious harm has been done. I can't allow it to continue, obviously.
ARTHUR
What are you talking about?
UTHER
You can never see this girl again.
ARTHUR
You just said that no harm had been done.
UTHER
You've had your fun, now it must come to an end.
ARTHUR
What does it matter that Guinevere's a servant?
UTHER
The survival of Camelot depends on forging an alliance through your marriage.
ARTHUR
But I can't marry someone who I don't have feelings for.
UTHER
Your first duty is to Camelot.
ARTHUR
I care about her...
UTHER
I cannot allow this. I forbid it.
ARTHUR
You can't forbid my feelings any more than I can. I won't deny them any longer, I love her. I love Guinevere.
UTHER
You leave me no choice; she's banished from the city.
ARTHUR
You can't do that.
UTHER
She has three days to leave. To return is on pain of death.
ARTHUR
She has nowhere to go! Her, her life is in Camelot.
UTHER
You have caused this to happen, Arthur. My decision is final.
ARTHUR
Please, do not banish her. I give you my solemn word that I'll never see her again.
UTHER
You have made it clear to me that you cannot control your feelings for this girl.
ARTHUR
No! I...
[Arthur grabs Uther's arm, pauses when he sees Uther's expression, and lets go.]
UTHER
This is for your own good.
[Uther leaves.]
--
[15:26, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
MERLIN
How did Uther know where to find you?
ARTHUR
I don't know. You were the only person who knew where we were.
MERLIN
I didn't (dramatic pause) tell him.
ARTHUR
Oh, maybe something you said (dramatic pause) gave it away.
MERLIN
I didn't say anything.
ARTHUR
You know Merlin, you couldn't keep a secret if your life depended on it!
MERLIN
You'd be surprised!
ARTHUR
What's that supposed to mean?
MERLIN
Nothing.
[Arthur backs off.]
MERLIN
What are you going to do?
ARTHUR
I don't know.
[Morgana enters.]
ARTHUR
Leave us, Merlin.
[Merlin and Morgana glare at each other on his way out.]
MORGANA
Arthur, I heard what happened. I can't tell you how sorry I am.
ARTHUR
It's all my fault.
MORGANA
You're not to blame.
ARTHUR
I-- I can't accept that I may never see her again.
MORGANA
Uther has banished her. Surely you have no choice.
ARTHUR
There are always choices.
MORGANA
What will you do?
ARTHUR
I'll leave with her.
MORGANA
You're leaving Camelot? You'd give up your rights to the throne!
ARTHUR
One day we will return to Camelot together, and Guinevere will take her place on the throne beside me.
--
[16:56, INT. GWEN'S HOUSE - DAY]
[Gwen packs for the move.]
GWEN
There is so much to do. I'll have to sell everything I can't take with me. And of course I need to find a new maid for Morgana.
MERLIN
Gwen.
GWEN
Do you know anyone suitable?
MERLIN
Gwen, stop it. Where will you go?
[Gwen slumps onto her bed and shakes her head, holding back tears.]
GWEN
I don't know. I've spent my whole life in Camelot, it's all I know. Everything I care about is here. I have nothing else.
MERLIN
I'll think of something.
[Gwen nods.]
MERLIN
I promise.
--
[17:52, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Morgana places a poultice under Arthur's pillow.]
--
[18:10, UTHER'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Uther sits at the table. Someone knocks on the door.]
UTHER
Enter.
[Morgana enters. Uther smiles.]
UTHER
Morgana.
MORGANA
I was concerned about you, My Lord. You weren't at dinner.
UTHER
Argh, I had no appetite.
MORGANA
You're worried about Arthur.
UTHER
I do not understand his feelings for this girl; she's a servant.
MORGANA
It is strange that...
UTHER
What?
MORGANA
Arthur tells me everything and he's never expressed any feelings for Gwen and suddenly he's declaring his love for her.
UTHER
What are you saying, Morgana?
MORGANA
I'm sure there's an explanation.
UTHER
Speak your mind.
MORGANA You yourself have noticed Arthur's strange mood. It's almost as though he's...been enchanted.
--
[19:21, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Guards search the room while Arthur stands there, arms crossed. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
What's going on?
ARTHUR
My father has ordered my chambers to be searched.
MERLIN
What for?
[A guard empties a container full of metal utensils onto the table.]
ARTHUR
You think I have a girl hiding in there?!
[A guard finds the poultice under Arthur's pillow.]
ARTHUR
What's that?
--
[19:43, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - NIGHT]
[Gaius looks over the poultice.]
UTHER
Is it magical?
GAIUS
I believe so. These are the symbols of the Old Religion.
UTHER
Could it be used to cast an enchantment?
GAIUS
That would be one use of such a poultice.
UTHER
This enchantment, could it cause someone to fall in love?
GAIUS
It is entirely possible. May I ask where it was found?
[Uther takes the poultice.]
UTHER
It was discovered in Arthur's Chambers. Find Morgana's maid and bring her to me immediately.
[Gaius looks at Morgana.]
--
[20:08, INT. KING’S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Arthur is packing when Merlin runs into the room.]
ARTHUR
What is it, Merlin?
MERLIN
I just saw some guards dragging Gwen into the palace.
[Arthur runs out of the room, followed by Merlin.]
--
[20:19, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - NIGHT]
[The guards drop Gwen to her knees in front of Uther. Uther holds poultice out in front of her.]
UTHER
You recognise it?
GWEN
I've never seen it before in my life.
UTHER
Really? I believe you planted it in Arthur's Chambers to enchant him.
[Uther hands the poultice back to a guard.]
GWEN
That's not true.
UTHER
Why else would Arthur fall in love with someone like you?
GWEN
I don't expect someone like you to understand that.
[Uther slaps Gwen across the face with the back of his hand.]
MORGANA
My Lord! Gwen has always been a loyal and trusted servant!
UTHER
I have no doubt she's feigned loyalty while using her position to get close to my son.
[The doors open and Arthur storms in.]
ARTHUR
What is the meaning of this?!
UTHER
This poultice was found under your pillow. Some kind of love charm. You are under its spell.
ARTHUR
That's ridiculous.
UTHER
What would you know.
ARTHUR
Because I know how I feel. I'm not enchanted.
UTHER
So can you tell me how it came to be in your room?
[Gwen gasps in anxiety.]
ARTHUR
I don't know, but I don't believe Guinevere put it there.
UTHER
Until its spell is broken, I can't take anything you say as the truth. Her father consorted with sorcerers.
GWEN
My father was a good and innocent man and you executed him!
UTHER
So you would seek your revenge by enchanting my son?!
GWEN
No!
GAIUS
My Lord, whatever this poultice is, I don't believe that Gwen is responsible for magic.
UTHER
I don't care what you believe, Gaius. Arthur is under her spell. It's the only rational explanation for his behaviour!
ARTHUR
Father, you have to see reason. Guinevere has done nothing wrong.
UTHER
She has been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. She will be burnt at the stake.
ARTHUR
No.
[Arthur moves toward Uther.]
UTHER
Restrain him!
[Guards grab Arthur as he bolts forward.]
ARTHUR
You can't do this!
GAIUS
My Lord! At least give Gwen a fair trial!
UTHER
I have all the evidence I need.
ARTHUR
I'm begging you! W--we will leave Camelot and never return! Just-- just let us go! I relinquish my entitlement to the throne!
[Morgana looks for Gwen's reaction. Gwen gasps in surprise.]
UTHER
My son would never do that. It is proof beyond doubt that you are enchanted.
ARTHUR
I will never forgive you for this.
UTHER
She will die. The enchantment will be broken. You'll see I was right. Take her away.
[Uther leaves.]
ARTHUR
No! Guinevere!
[Arthur struggles to break free of the guards. Gwen begins to panic as guards pick her up off the floor.]
GWEN
Arthur! No! Arthur, please...!
[The guards drag Gwen backwards toward the door.]
ARTHUR
No!
[Arthur breaks away from the guards. He runs to Gwen and grabs her from the guards. Arthur kisses her until the other guards pull him away.]
ARTHUR
I will always love you!
[The guards continue to drag Gwen out backwards. Arthur struggles against the guards in vain. Gwen spots Morgana smirking behind Arthur as she exits.]
--
[23:06, EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/DUNGEONS/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[A pyre is being built in the Square. Gwen watches it from the window of her cell. Arthur watches it from the window in his chambers. Merlin enters.]
MERLIN
We need to find a way to smuggle Gwen out of Camelot.
ARTHUR
My father has me under constant watch. There are guards outside, below in the square. I can't watch her die, Merlin.
--
[23:47, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[Merlin brings a platter to Gwen's cell.]
MERLIN
I thought you might be hungry.
GWEN
I can't even think of eating. How is Arthur?
MERLIN
He wants me to let you know that he will do everything he can to convince Uther that you're innocent. He won't stop until you're released.
GWEN
You and I both know that Uther will not change his mind. When I am gone, will you take care of him for me, Merlin?
MERLIN
No, you can't give up hope. There is still time.
GWEN
To do what?
MERLIN
I need to find the person who really planted the poultice. Do you have any idea who it might've been?
[Gwen gives Merlin a dark look.]
MERLIN
What is it?
[Gwen checks to see if guards are near and then faces Merlin.]
GWEN
After I was sentenced to death, I was being led out. I looked back. I swear, Morgana was smiling. You probably think I'm mad.
MERLIN
No, I...
[Footsteps approach.]
MERLIN
...don't doubt sh...
[A guard opens the cell door.]
GWEN
I can no longer trust her. I've started to wonder if it wasn't a coincidence that Uther and Morgana found us in the woods.
[Merlin leaves and the guard locks the cell.]
--
[25:04, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
GAIUS
Morgana? Uther'll never believe that Morgana's responsible.
MERLIN
Perhaps Arthur will talk him 'round.
GAIUS
Uther thinks Arthur's enchanted. Anything that Arthur does is going to strengthen that belief. I fear that's not going to save Gwen.
MERLIN
If we can't expose the true sorcerer, then we must invent one.
GAIUS
Oh?
MERLIN
What if a sorcerer was caught planting an identical poultice in Arthur's Chambers? Uther would've no choice but to release Gwen.
GAIUS
And do you know of a sorcerer who's stupid enough to get caught doing such a thing?
MERLIN
Me.
--
[25:50, INT. KING’S PALACE, MERLIN'S CHAMBER - DAY]
[Merlin pulls the magic book out from the floor boards under his bed.]
MERLIN
So, if I disguise myself, it won't matter if I'm caught. I can use magic to escape, and then just change back into myself. They'll think that the sorcerer has just vanished into thin air.
GAIUS
Well, no matter how you disguise yourself, I fear Arthur will recognise you.
MERLIN
Not if I'm eighty years old.
GAIUS
An aging spell? Merlin, aging spells are notoriously difficult and unpredictable. If the spell doesn't hold, you'll be exposed.
MERLIN
If I don't do something, Gwen's going to die, and I'm not going to let that happen. Can you make a poultice identical to the one found in Arthur's Chambers?
GAIUS
Well, I believe so.
MERLIN
Okay.
[Merlin begins grinding magic dust.]
MERLIN
Miht dagan, beþecce me. Adeadaþ þisne gast min freondum ond min feondum.
[Merlin speaks an incantation and sets the dust on fire.]
--
[26:54, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Gaius finishes tying a poultice. His jaw drops at the sight of Old Merlin exiting his chamber. Old Merlin makes grunting noises.]
OLD MERLIN
You know me better than anyone, Gaius. Do you recognise me?
GAIUS
There's something of you in the eyes. But perhaps that's just because I know it's you.
OLD MERLIN
I can't believe that one day I will actually look like this. Ooh. I ache, all over.
GAIUS
Ah. Well, now you know how I feel.
[Gaius hands Merlin the poultice.]
GAIUS
You'll be needing this.
--
[28:00, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR/ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Old Merlin walks to Arthur's Chambers with a staff. He peeks around corner and sees Arthur giving instructions to a pair of guards. Old Merlin allows Arthur to spot him entering the chamber. He goes to Arthur's bed and waits. Arthur creeps into the room, sword drawn. Old Merlin babbles a fake spell. Arthur puts his sword at Old Merlin's back.]
ARTHUR
Show yourself. Who are you?
OLD MERLIN
I am...
[Old Merlin spins around.]
OLD MERLIN
Dragoon! The Great!
ARTHUR
Is it you who planted the poultice in my bed?
OLD MERLIN
You have caught me red-handed. I have no choice but to confess.
[Arthur puts him back at sword point.]
ARTHUR
An innocent girl almost died because of your actions.
OLD MERLIN
I suppose your father will have to release her now that you've caught me.
ARTHUR
I should run you through where you stand.
OLD MERLIN
I really wouldn't do that if I were you! Because if you do that...!
[Arthur looks puzzled at old!Merlin.]
OLD MERLIN
You will never learn of my plan.
ARTHUR
What plan?
OLD MERLIN
Exactly! That's why you can't run me through!
[Arthur lowers the sword.]
ARTHUR
Have we met?
[They look each other over.]
OLD MERLIN
No, I don't believe so. I never forget a face.
ARTHUR
Your eyes. We've met somewhere before.
OLD MERLIN
Me? No!
[Old Merlin looks for a heavy object.]
OLD MERLIN
Flíeh grima!
[Merlin's spell knocks Arthur out with a helmet and he flees the scene. Arthur recovers.]
ARTHUR
Guards!
[Merlin avoids the guards in the corridors.]
OLD MERLIN
Edniwe min geoguð!
[Merlin is unable to undo the aging spell.]
ARTHUR
He went this way!
[Old Merlin runs and hides behind another wall.]
OLD MERLIN
Edniwe min geoguð!
[Merlin still can't undo the aging spell. Merlin peeks around the corner at Arthur.]
ARTHUR
There he is!
[Old Merlin tries to run, but Arthur throws dagger that pins Merlin's sleeve to the door.]
ARTHUR
Seize him.
[The guards grab Old Merlin.]
--
[30:51, INT. KING’S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER OF DOOM - DAY]
[Uther goes over documents with council members.]
ARTHUR
Father.
UTHER
Arthur.
[Guards escort Old Merlin into the chamber.]
UTHER
Who is this?
ARTHUR
He is the sorcerer.
[Arthur hands Uther the poultice Gaius made.]
ARTHUR
I found him placing this under my pillow.
UTHER
Is this true?
OLD MERLIN
Yes.
[Morgana is confused.]
ARTHUR
What did you hope to achieve with this enchantment?
OLD MERLIN
If Arthur were to fall in love with a lowly serving girl, it would bring shame on Camelot.
UTHER
Have I wronged you in some way, old man?
OLD MERLIN
You have wronged so many people in so many ways. You're blinded by your hatred of magic. You have tortured and executed innocent people. You, Uther Pendragon, are a stupid, arrogant old tyrant!
ARTHUR
You will hold your tongue!
OLD MERLIN
And you. Oh, I have heard how you...mistreat your servants! They do everything for you, but do they ever get any thanks? No! You're a spoilt arrogant brat...!
[Gaius rolls his eyes.]
OLD MERLIN
...with the brains of a donkey and the face (Hic) (Cough) of a toad.
[Guards pull Old Merlin away from Arthur.]
UTHER
This serving girl. She is your accomplice?
[Old Merlin shakes his head.]
OLD MERLIN
I enchanted her too. The girl is entirely innocent.
ARTHUR
My Lord, he has confessed.
[Morgana is still confused. Uther sulks and picks up the poultice.]
UTHER
Release the girl. Tomorrow at dawn you will take your place on the pyre. Take him away.
[Arthur and guards escort Old Merlin to the dungeons. Morgana and Gaius follow to watch them in the Phoenix Corridor.]
MORGANA
Do you know that man, Gaius?
GAIUS
I've never seen him before. Is there something troubling you, Morgana? I would've thought you'd be relieved that the true culprit's been found.
MORGANA
Of course I am.
--
[33:16, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[The guards shove Old Merlin into a cell. Merlin looks out at the pyre in the Square.]
--
[33:30, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Gaius walks down a corridor.]
ARTHUR
Gaius? Have you seen Merlin, I can't find him anywhere.
GAIUS
I-- I think he said he was going to spend the day in the tavern.
ARTHUR
Oh, did he? Well, we'll see about that.
--
[33:48, INT. KING’S PALACE, DUNGEONS - NIGHT]
[Gaius visits Old Merlin's cell.]
GAIUS (whispers)
Merlin! What happened?
[Merlin cries.]
OLD MERLIN
I can't break the spell, Gaius. It's too powerful.
GAIUS
You have to try again.
OLD MERLIN
I have tried, it's no good. I'm stuck like this.
GAIUS
Not for long. Uther will have you burnt at the stake.
OLD MERLIN
There must be another way to break the spell.
GAIUS
There's only one thing I can think of.
OLD MERLIN
What is it?
GAIUS
In the book of Gala there's an antidote that can undo such aging spells.
OLD MERLIN
How long will it take to make this antidote?
GAIUS
Longer than I fear you have. Buy as much time as you can.
OLD MERLIN
How do I do that?
GAIUS
Merlin, I've no idea.
--
[34:53, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Gaius brews potion, trying to make it a certain colour.]
--
[35:31, EXT/INT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/DUNGEONS - DAY]
[A crowd is gathered around the pyre in the morning. Merlin waits in his cell. Arthur enters with guards.]
ARTHUR
It's time.
OLD MERLIN
Wait!
ARTHUR
What is it?
OLD MERLIN
There are other crimes I wish to confess.
ARTHUR
What difference does it make? You're about to be burnt at the stake. We can't execute you twice.
--
[36:27, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Gaius finishes anti-aging potion.]
--
[36:43, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gaius sees Old Merlin being escorted to the square.]
--
[36:58, EXT. KING’S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
[Merlin is escorted towards the pyre, accompanied by a drum roll.]
UTHER
You have been found guilty of using magic and enchantments. In accordance with our law, you will be burned at the stake. Let this serve as a lesson to all those who seek to destroy Camelot.
[Old Merlin sees Gaius weave through the crowd show him the antidote bottle. Merlin turns at lunges at Gaius.]
OLD MERLIN
A curse upon you all!
[Merlin grabs the bottle.]
OLD MERLIN
I will have my revenge!
[Guards pull Old Merlin towards the pyre.]
ARTHUR
Are you alright, Gaius?
GAIUS
I'm fine, Arthur.
OLD MERLIN
Intend lig, intend lig.
[The pyre bursts into huge flames. Everyone pulls back and Old Merlin pushes through crowd.]
ARTHUR
After him!
--
[38:15, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Old Merlin runs down the corridor, but can't get through the door at the end. He drinks the antidote as Arthur and guards approach. Arthur turns the corner to find young Merlin with the red robe tucked behind his back.]
ARTHUR
Merlin, where's the sorcerer?
MERLIN (gravelly voice)
He w...
[Merlin coughs and clears his throat.]
MERLIN
Erm...he went that way.
[Merlin points to the wall behind him. Arthur turns to the guards.]
ARTHUR
Sound the warning bell. Search the entire palace. I want him found. Are you telling me you let him run straight past you?
MERLIN
He was-- he was-- he was too fast for me.
ARTHUR
He's a doddery old man. This is what happens when you spend all day in the tavern.
MERLIN
What?
ARTHUR
Perhaps mucking out my horses will help sober you up.
--
[39:23, INT. KING’S PALACE, MORGANA'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Morgana enters while Gwen is gathering the dirty laundry.]
MORGANA
Gwen.
[Morgana gives Gwen a fake hug.]
MORGANA
I can't tell you how relieved I am that you've been pardoned.
[Gwen is suspicious.]
MORGANA
I begged Uther to release you, but he wouldn't listen to reason.
GWEN
I'm sure you did all you could.
[They both nod.]
GWEN
I...
[Gwen indicates the laundry basket and exits. Still confused, Morgana closes the dividing door.]
--
[40:01, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gwen walks down an empty corridor with the laundry. Arthur pops out of an alcove and pulls her into it. Gwen gasps.]
ARTHUR
Sorry. Didn't mean to startle you. Now, my father believes that my feelings for you are a result of an enchantment. If he's to see any sign that that isn't the case, then he'll banish you from Camelot.
GWEN
And are your feelings for me the result of an enchantment?
ARTHUR
Oh, we both know that's a lie. But...I think it would be safer for you if we let others continue to believe it.
[Gwen nods.]
GWEN
What you said to your father...would you really have given up your place on the throne for me?
ARTHUR
Still would.
[Gwen's jaw drops.]
GWEN
Your place is here in Camelot.
ARTHUR
My place is with you.
GWEN
This isn't just about us. You must stay for the sake of your people. You will be a great king. And then you can change these ridiculous customs.
ARTHUR
I promise you that when I am King, things will be different. We can be together.
GWEN
I will count the days until then.
[Arthur and Gwen lean in to kiss. They hear a noise nearby and break apart.]
GWEN
I should go.
[Arthur watches Gwen leave as he steps back into hiding and a guard walks down the corridor.]
--
[41:25, INT. KING’S PALACE, PHYSICIAN'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin enters.]
GAIUS
Ah, Merlin. It's good to see you looking like your old self.
MERLIN
I'm covered in horse dung.
GAIUS
Precisely.
MERLIN
Arthur seems to think I spent the day in the tavern. I don't suppose you, er...you know where he got that idea?
GAIUS
I really can't imagine. Oh, and Merlin? You might want to take a bath.
-----------------------------------------------
Note: incantations found at Merlin Wiki
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