Board Thread:General Discussion/@comment-5102537-20140217120328/@comment-66.215.121.188-20140307011907

It definitely was disappointing with so much unsaid about that gap in time. Even just having one episode to explain why Merlin might have been distracted from or demoralized about the goal to change Arthur's views on magic would have been much better. Heck, even a scene or two would have been an improvement. Having conflict between Arthur and Merlin would not necessarily have weakened their relationship. In fact, from a psychological perspective learning how to handle differing opinions and reactions is an important step for both friends and couples.

Were Merlin to have argued more with Arthur or taken more risks in convincing him there is a good side to magic, this had potential to cause great conflict but if done right it could have paid off and made their friendship even stronger. In fact, I think those risks would have added better suspense to his choices. For example, if he were to bring up the druids and their discontent (because, like Kara said, nothing has changed for them), suggesting a change of policy, would this make Arthur angry and suspicious? Or would he give it a real chance? Would it change the dynamic of their relationship if Merlin kept up his persistence? I think an episode like this would have given great opportunities for character development.

Without things like this, it's hard for me to fully rationalize Merlin's decisions. I don't know why he wouldn't at least try, but if he made a decent effort to directly influence Arthur's opinions (The Wicked Day does not count - Arthur did not know Merlin was in any way involved) and it seriously blew up in his face I could see why Merlin would lose hope. As soon as Arthur was king I remember waiting for the episode when either Merlin would finally loose patience and admit he is a sorcerer or Arthur would somehow find out, thinking it would initially cause great strife but end in an important resolution that changed the direction of Arthur's rule. Wishful thinking, I suppose.