Transcript:Queen of Hearts



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 startled, 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.

OPENING CREDITS

--

[02:32, INT. KING’S PALACE, CORRIDORS - NIGHT]

[Morgana walks in the castle.]

MORGAUSE (echoing whispers)

Sister. Sister.

[A door opens near Morgana.]

MORGAUSE (echoing whispers)

Sister, this way.

[A torch lights up.]

MORGAUSE (echoing whispers)

Sister.

[Morgana takes the torch.]

MORGAUSE (echoing whispers)

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. [Morgana smirks and nods]

--

[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 CHAMBER - 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 CHAMBER- 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- 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- 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 - 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. Ah! 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 - DAY] [Uther goes over documents with council members.]

ARTHUR

Father.

UTHER

Arthur.

[Guards escort Dragoon the Great 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 spoiled 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.