KILGHARRAH
In a land of myth and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of a young man. His name: Merlin
---
[00:13, EXT. FIELD - DAY]
[Merlin runs through a field dressed as a knight, chased by a band of armed men. Merlin heads into the woods and trips over onto the ground as an axe lands between his legs. He picks up the axe and runs on straight into the dead end. He stops and turns to face his pursuers, who are now strolling in to meet him. Merlin raises the throwing axe.]
KING CAERLEON
Trapped, are we?
[An arrow hits one of Caerleon's men in the back. Merlin's pursuers look up to find themselves surrounded by the Knights of Camelot. Merlin smiles.]
MERLIN
That's the idea.
ARTHUR
On me!
[Arthur jumps down into the pit and lands on top one of the men.]
OPENING CREDITS
--
[01:47, EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Agravaine drags along the leader of the prisoners.]
AGRAVAINE
Your Majesty. Look what we have here.
KING ARTHUR
He comes with us. We'll deal with the prisoners when we get back to Camelot.
AGRAVAINE
I fear this is no ordinary prisoner, Your Highness.
[Agravaine rips the necklace from Caerleon's neck and hands it to Arthur.]
KING ARTHUR
Well, well.
MERLIN
What is it?
KING ARTHUR
This, Merlin, is the royal crest of Caerleon. Is it not...Your Highness?
--
[02:19, EXT. FOREST, CAMPFIRE - NIGHT]
KING ARTHUR
This is not the first time he's trespassed on our lands.
AGRAVAINE
No, sire. Only last week he seized the village of Stonedown on the western borders.
KING ARTHUR
We're not on the borders now, Agravaine. This is the heart of the kingdom. He took a grave risk coming here.
AGRAVAINE
Perhaps he doesn't see it that way. I fear it's no coincidence that all this has happened since Uther's death.
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean?
AGRAVAINE
Arthur, your father was a strong king. His enemies feared and respected that strength.
KING ARTHUR
Are you saying I'm not worthy of that respect?
AGRAVAINE
No, sire, not at all. There isn't a citizen of Camelot who would not lay down their life for you. But your enemies...to the enemies of Camelot, you are still untested as a king. You must send a clear message that any action against Camelot will be met without mercy.
KING ARTHUR
Did we not achieve that here today?
AGRAVAINE
No, sire. Not enough.
[Merlin listens in while he cooks dinner.]
AGRAVAINE
Not enough to deter the likes of Odin and Bayard and the countless others who covet Camelot's wealth.
KING ARTHUR
Well, what do you suggest?
AGRAVAINE
I suggest... I suggest that we force him to accept a treaty on our terms. He must withdraw his men from our land, return our territories to us. He must surrender Everwick.
KING ARTHUR
He'd rather die than agree to such terms.
AGRAVAINE
Then you are left with no choice.
KING ARTHUR
I can't just kill a man in cold blood.
AGRAVAINE
Arthur, you must do what you need to do to assert your authority on this land.
KING ARTHUR
Well, there must be another way.
AGRAVAINE
There's no other way. Think on it. Decide by tomorrow.
[Agravaine leaves Arthur to mull over his terrible advice.]
MERLIN
Arthur...
KING ARTHUR
Not now, Merlin.
---
[04:22, EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[Merlin wakes and brings a glass to Arthur, who is still seriously contemplating his uncle's suggestion.]
MERLIN
Arthur? Arthur, here.
[Arthur takes the drink.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you.
MERLIN
You must be cold.
[Merlin kneels by the fire.]
MERLIN
Have you not slept at all?
KING ARTHUR
Been thinking.
MERLIN
About what Agravaine said?
[Arthur nods.]
MERLIN
So, what are you going to do?
KING ARTHUR
My father was a great king, but I don't have his wisdom or his conviction. I can only follow his example and do what he would've done.
MERLIN
You're going to draw up this treaty?
KING ARTHUR (nods)
I have to show my strength. Show that I'm worthy of my father's name.
MERLIN
Caerleon won't sign it. You know that?
KING ARTHUR
Caerleon brought this upon himself.
MERLIN
Arthur. You've always shown mercy in battle. You've never sought to humiliate your enemy in this way. This isn't like you. This isn't who you are.
KING ARTHUR
You have no idea what it is to make these decisions. Decisions that will shape the future of this land.
MERLIN
Arthur--
KING ARTHUR
So, please...stick to what you do know.
[Arthur gets up and leaves.]
--
[05:58, EXT. FOREST - DAY]
[The knights assemble and Agravaine presents King Caerleon with the treaty scroll.]
KING CAERLEON
What is this?
[Caerleon doesn't take the scroll, so Agravaine hands it to Sir Leon, who opens it.]
KING CAERLEON
You expect me to sign this? To humiliate myself before you?
AGRAVAINE
You invaded our kingdom and took what did not belong to you.
KING CAERLEON
And if I do not sign?
AGRAVAINE
Then you will pay, with your life!
KING CAERLEON (scoffs)
And who makes these terms?
KING ARTHUR
Arthur Pendragon...
[Arthur walks forward.]
KING ARTHUR
King of Camelot.
[Caerleon pushes Leon's arm aside and steps forward.]
KING CAERLEON
Very well.
[Caerleon shoves off Percival.]
KING CAERLEON
Then make it quick!
[Caerleon kneels.]
KING ARTHUR
Think what you're doing, Caerleon. This treaty could seal a truce between us. There would be peace. Like there was between your father and mine.
KING CAERLEON
I am not my father, and you are not Uther! Do you really have the guts to kill me?
KING ARTHUR
You leave me no choice.
KING CAERLEON
You do not choose anything, boy. It is I who choose to die, and I alone. Now, get on with it.
[Caerleon bows his head down to Arthur to give him clear aim at his neck.]
KING ARTHUR
So be it.
[Agravaine smirks. Merlin shakes his head.]
--
[07:35, EXT/INT. MAIN SQUARE/KING'S PALACE, CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Gaius watches Arthur, Merlin, and the knights dismount in the square.]
--
[07:48, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Agravaine walks with Arthur to his chambers.]
AGRAVAINE
Your resolve has already earned the respect of both the council and the people alike. Your father would be proud of you.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Uncle. I don't know what I'd have done without your support and counsel.
[Arthur enters his chambers where Gwen is waiting for him. They hug and Agravaine grimaces. Merlin enters with Arthur's travel pack.]
KING ARTHUR
Did you miss me?
GWEN
Yes.
--
[08:14, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Merlin unpacks while Arthur washes up.]
MERLIN
Can't have been easy having a man killed like that.
KING ARTHUR
I had no choice. Show of strength was necessary.
MERLIN
Don't you think compassion can also show strength?
KING ARTHUR
Not for the likes of Caerleon, no. No, an example had to be made for the good of the kingdom.
MERLIN
So, you don't regret what you did?
KING ARTHUR
My conscience is clean, Merlin, which is more than I can say for my room. So, just do your job, will you?
MERLIN
Look, I'm just saying, if there's something bothering you, you can talk to me. You shouldn't push your friends away, you know? Not now. Not when you need them the most.
KING ARTHUR
You're wrong, Merlin. I don't need anyone. I can't afford that luxury.
[Merlin is clearly upset.]
KING ARTHUR
The kingdom's my responsibility now. Mine to bear alone. And you must learn to accept that.
[Merlin nods, trying to mask his disappointment.]
--
[09:13, EXT. CAERLEON'S CASTLE - DAY]
[King Caerleon's men bear his body to his castle. His wife, Queen Annis pulls back the sheet to see his body. She is disturbed by what she finds.]
QUEEN ANNIS
This...this is no battle wound. This is the work of cowards!
[Annis whips the sheet back over her husband's face.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Arthur will pay for this, by God! The whole of Camelot will pay for this!
--
[09:48, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Arthur sits alone at the table looking over court documents. Someone knocks on the door.]
KING ARTHUR
Come.
[Agravaine enters.]
AGRAVAINE
I am sorry to disturb you, my lord.
KING ARTHUR
Something the matter, Uncle?
AGRAVAINE
I dare to hope that my advice has been of some use these past months.
KING ARTHUR
Of course it has, you know that.
AGRAVAINE
There is something I wish to discuss with you. But...it is a delicate matter.
KING ARTHUR
Yes?
AGRAVAINE
It concerns Guinevere.
KING ARTHUR
What about her?
AGRAVAINE
She's a beautiful woman, sire, and possessed of many fine qualities, I have no doubt. But she is a servant.
KING ARTHUR
That doesn't matter to me.
AGRAVAINE (hastily)
Nor to me. I assure you. No, i--it's your people that concern me.
[Arthur stirs uncomfortably.]
KING ARTHUR
Well, surely as king, I can do as I see fit.
AGRAVAINE
No, sire, you cannot. You must do what is expected of you. You must present yourself in an appropriate manner. The people...your people do not wish to see their king with the daughter of a blacksmith.
KING ARTHUR
This isn't a matter of state. This is a matter of the heart.
AGRAVAINE
You cannot rule the kingdom with your heart, Arthur. Your father understood that.
[Arthur stirs even more uncomfortably. Agravaine takes the chair next to Arthur.]
AGRAVAINE
You didn't want to kill Caerleon, I know that. But you were strong. You didn't let those emotions cloud your judgement. You rule with your head like a strong king must.
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
AGRAVAINE
And now you must show that strength again. Set aside your personal feelings for the good of your kingdom.
KING ARTHUR
Set aside my feelings for Guinevere?
AGRAVAINE
I'm afraid so, my lord.
[Arthur considers the advice unhappily.]
--
[12:04, EXT. CAMELOT - DAY]
[A messenger rides to Camelot.]
--
[12:15, TRAINING GROUNDS - DAY]
[Merlin steadies the punching bag for Arthur.]
MERLIN
You seem tense.
KING ARTHUR
What do you mean "tense"?
MERLIN
You know...agitated. On edge. Angry.
KING ARTHUR
This is not anger, Merlin. This is controlled aggression!
[Arthur punches the bag off of the hanger and Merlin falls to the ground with it.]
MERLIN
Great. I'm glad we cleared that up.
[Leon arrives.]
SIR LEON
Sire. A messenger this minute arrived.
KING ARTHUR
What is it?
SIR LEON
An army. They crossed our border at first light.
KING ARTHUR
An army? Whose army?
SIR LEON
Caerleon's queen.
--
[12:45, KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - DAY]
KING ARTHUR
At a forced march, Caerleon's men will reach Camelot by sundown tomorrow, which means we have no choice. We must intercept them before they reach the ridge of Landshire. That way, we hold the high ground. The knights of Camelot make ready as I speak. We ride at dawn.
AGRAVAINE
Long live the king!
ALL
Long live the king! Long live the king! Long live the king!
[Merlin looks on unhappily. Agravaine smirks.]
--
[13:14, EXT/INT. CAERLEON'S CASTLE, TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Morgana arrives outside Caerleon's castle. She magically opens a door to the tunnels and heads inside. A guard spots her.]
GUARD
Halt!
[Another guard steps in her path and she is surrounded.]
MORGANA
Please. I mean you know harm. I wish only to speak with your queen.
--
[13:48, INT. CAERLEON'S CASTLE, THRONE ROOM - NIGHT]
[The guards escort Morgana into the throne room and pull off her hood.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Morgana Pendragon. Stealing into my castle in the dead of night. You must have a death wish.
MORGANA
Sorry for the interruption, Your Majesty, but I've come on urgent business.
QUEEN ANNIS
What business could you possibly have with me, witch?
MORGANA
I come in the name of my father.
QUEEN ANNIS
Is that so? When last I heard, you and he were...
MORGANA
I speak not of Uther, but of Gorlois.
QUEEN ANNIS
Gorlois?
MORGANA
Uther is my father by blood alone. Gorlois raised me as a child. He made me who I am.
QUEEN ANNIS
I remember him well. He was a good man. An honourable man.
MORGANA
He was, Your Highness. And his sole reward was death, betrayed by his king.
QUEEN ANNIS
Well, then. It seems we have both lost something at the hands of a Pendragon.
[Annis stands and approaches Morgana.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Now, for the last time, what are you doing here?
MORGANA
Your Highness...
[Morgana shoves off the guard holding her, walks up to Queen Annis, and bows down to her knees.]
MORGANA
Your Highness, Uther was a curse upon this land, as is his son. I seek revenge for wounds they have inflicted, as do you. If you will accept it, I've come to offer my help.
--
[15:24, INT. KING'S PALACE, ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Merlin prepares Arthur's bed while Arthur puts on a cloak.]
MERLIN
Off again? Another weak in the wilderness. Eating weird animals, being eaten by weird animals. No hot water, no baths. This will be the last time either of us get to sleep in a proper bed.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin, I'm prepared to face all manner of horrors in this world, but if you think I'm sharing this bed with you...
MERLIN (laughs)
What? No, that's not what I meant.
KING ARTHUR
Right. Good. Comfort to know.
MERLIN
Where are you going?
KING ARTHUR
That's my business. And Merlin, don't be here when I come back.
[Merlin shakes his head.]
--
[16:02, LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[Arthur walks to Gwen's with the hood pulled up on his cloak. A guard spots him.]
GUARD
Halt! Declare yourself!
[Arthur stops, irritated. He turns around and pulls off the hood. The guard is shocked.]
GUARD
I'm sorry, sire. Forgive me.
KING ARTHUR
No harm done.
[The guard bows and turns back to continue his patrol. Arthur waits for the guard to leave, then continues on to Gwen's and knocks on her door. Gwen opens the door and smiles.]
GWEN
Arthur.
KING ARTHUR
May I come in?
GWEN
Of course.
--
[16:44, GWEN'S HOUSE - NIGHT]
GWEN
Can I get you anything? Something to eat?
KING ARTHUR
I'm fine, thanks.
[Arthur closes the door and turns to face her.]
KING ARTHUR
I won't be staying long.
GWEN
Oh.
[Arthur stands awkwardly and Gwen waits with a smile.]
KING ARTHUR
Guinevere...please believe me when I say that you've done nothing wrong.
[Gwen furrows her eyebrows.]
KING ARTHUR
And that none of this...has anything to do with you.
GWEN (confused)
None of what? I don't understand.
KING ARTHUR
Things have changed for me. With my father gone, it falls to me to rule this land.
GWEN
I know what a responsibility that must be.
KING ARTHUR
And now that I'm king...it's no longer relevant what I may or may not want for myself.
[Gwen is beginning to understand.]
KING ARTHUR
My only duty is to the people of this land. I'll be judged by my actions. Who I'm seen with.
GWEN (surprised and hurt)
You're ashamed to be seen with me?
KING ARTHUR
No.
[Arthur shakes his head, beginning to have difficulty keeping his composure.]
KING ARTHUR
No. But now that I'm king, it's not appropriate.
GWEN (more surprised and hurt)
I'm not appropriate?
KING ARTHUR
It seems not.
[Gwen walks up to Arthur, disbelieving what she's hearing.]
GWEN
Arthur...listen to yourself. This doesn't sound like the man I know. You've been talked into this, haven't you?
KING ARTHUR
I haven't been talked into anything. I'm my own man. I make my own decisions.
GWEN (beginning to cry)
And you decided we can't be together?
KING ARTHUR
Yes.
GWEN
I see.
[Gwen looks at Arthur, not hiding her tears or pain.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm sorry, Guinevere. It's just the way it has to be.
[Arthur turns to leave.]
GWEN
Arthur.
[Arthur stops with his hand on the door handle and looks at her.]
GWEN
Don't let anyone tell you what to do. You said you are your own man. You have a good heart. Be true to it. Only then will you be the king you want to be.
[Arthur considers her for a moment, then exits.]
--
[19:12, EXT. KING'S PALACE, MAIN SQUARE/CORRIDOR - DAY]
[Arthur descends the steps to his assembled army. They ride out of the city. Gwen and Gaius watch from the a corridor window.]
GAIUS
Don't worry, Gwen. They'll be back soon, I'm sure.
GUINEVERE
It's different this time, though, isn't it? Arthur's king now. The fate of Camelot rests on shoulders alone.
GAIUS
Oh, he's not alone, Gwen. You above all people should know that.
GUINEVERE
I do know that, but I'm not sure he does.
--
[19:58, EXT. CAMELOT, RIDGE - DAY]
[Arthur stands alone on the edge of the cliff, looking out at the enemy's army. Agravaine steps up beside him.]
KING ARTHUR
Make sure the men have everything they need. They must be well rested by morning.
AGRAVAINE
I'll see to it, sire.
KING ARTHUR
The battle commences at first light.
[Agravaine smirks and walks off.]
--
[20:34, EXT. CAMELOT CAMP - NIGHT]
[Arthur watches his Round Table from his tent as they talk around the campfire. Leon tussles Merlin's hair and the knights chuckle.]
SIR ELYAN
...an army.
[Percival and Elyan toast their tankards. He clearly longs for their camaraderie. Merlin notices Arthur watching and his smile fades slightly. The others notice and look over. Arthur is caught and tries to cover.]
KING ARTHUR
We should all get some sleep.
[Arthur turns back into his tent.]
SIR GWAINE
Is he all right?
MERLIN
He's our king. If anything were to happen to any of us, he'll hold himself responsible.
[Gwaine nods as the all take in Merlin's words.]
--
[21:17, CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - NIGHT]
[Arthur is contemplative while Merlin tends to Arthur's spare armour. Elyan leads the Round Table Knights as they enter purposefully.]
KING ARTHUR
Elyan?
SIR ELYAN
Sire.
[Elyan looks at the other knights.]
KING ARTHUR
Well?
SIR ELYAN
We just want you to know there isn't a man among us who would not die for you. We made our pledge, and we wear the Pendragon crest with pride. Tomorrow, we fight in your name, sire. For freedom and justice in this land.
[Arthur is touched.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Elyan. Thank you all.
[They all nod and exit. Arthur seems disturbed.]
MERLIN
They mean it, sire. Every word.
KING ARTHUR
I've never once questioned their loyalty. I do wonder if I deserve it.
MERLIN
No one could care more for their men that you do. To send them into battle is not a decision that you would make lightly, and they know that.
KING ARTHUR
But was it the right decision?
MERLIN
If there was any other way out of this situation, you would take it. But you must defend Camelot. You have no choice.
KING ARTHUR
I had a choice...to let Caerleon live or die. I made the wrong decision. And now I've brought this war upon Camelot myself.
MERLIN
Arthur...no one is prepared to sacrifice more for the sake of this kingdom than you. Your decision was made in the best interests of Camelot.
KING ARTHUR
Maybe. Now my men must pay for it with their lives.
--
[23:16, EXT. CAMELOT CAMP - NIGHT]
[Arthur exits his tent, dressed in a shabby brown cloak, and walks past his sleeping men. Merlin wakes and sees him heading off somewhere. Merlin gets up to follow. He trips over someone's foot and stumbles into a tent. Arthur hears the noise and turns around. Merlin peeks out of the tent, waits for Arthur to continue, then follows. Arthur walks down to the sentry's stationed at the enemy camp.]
SENTRY
Halt!
[Arthur opens his cloak. Merlin watches from above.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm unarmed.
[Arthur pulls off the cloak and drops it on the ground.]
KING ARTHUR
You know who I am. Take me to your queen.
[Merlin watches Arthur allows himself to be taken into the enemy camp. He follows.]
--
[24:36, INT. ENEMY CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - NIGHT]
[The sentries bring Arthur into the tent.]
QUEEN ANNIS
What is the meaning of this?
KING ARTHUR
Your Highness, I'm here to--
[Annis slaps him.]
KING ARTHUR
Your Highness, I know that you feel nothing but contempt for me. You feel I've done you a grievous wrong, and you would be right.
[Merlin peeks through the tent seam.]
KING ARTHUR
I'm ashamed of what I did. It was cowardly, it was unjust, and I am deeply sorry.
QUEEN ANNIS
Sorry does not bring back my husband. Sorry does not give my people back their king.
KING ARTHUR
I realise that. I know there's nothing I can do to repair that loss.
QUEEN ANNIS
Then what are you doing here, Arthur Pendragon?
KING ARTHUR
I want to call off the battle.
QUEEN ANNIS
It's a little too late for that.
KING ARTHUR
I don't propose a truce, but an alternative. I invoke the right of single combat. Two champions to settle this matter between them.
QUEEN ANNIS
And why should I grant you this favour?
KING ARTHUR
There's been bloodshed enough already, Your Highness. Many hundreds of lives will be saved this way.
[Annis nods for her men to release Arthur's arms.]
QUEEN ANNIS
And your terms?
KING ARTHUR
If my man wins, you must withdraw your army.
QUEEN ANNIS
And if mine is the victor?
KING ARTHUR
Then half of all Camelot is yours.
[A guard brings Merlin into the tent and shoves him to his knees. Arthur is dumbfounded.]
MERLIN
Sorry about this.
QUEEN ANNIS
You know him?
KING ARTHUR
He's my servant, he must've followed me here. I--I knew nothing about it.
QUEEN ANNIS
Kill him.
KING ARTHUR
Wait. Please. Let him go. He's just...a simpleminded fool.
QUEEN ANNIS
That is two favours you've asked of me this night, Arthur Pendragon.
[Queen Annis turns and sits on her throne, considering Merlin. Tension as Arthur waits for her decision.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Very well. You shall have your trial by combat.
[Arthur is relieved.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Announce your champion by noon tomorrow.
[Arthur bows.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Your Highness.
QUEEN ANNIS
And take your fool with you.
[Arthur nods.]
--
[26:45, EXT. CAMELOT CAMP - NIGHT]
[Arthur and Merlin return to camp. Arthur is not happy.]
MERLIN
Simpleminded fool?
KING ARTHUR
Oh, I was being kind, believe me. You almost got me killed in there.
MERLIN
Me? You seem to be doing a pretty good job of that yourself.
KING ARTHUR
What is wrong with you? Why can you never just let me be?
MERLIN
I'm your friend! I was looking out for you.
KING ARTHUR
I appreciate that, in your very confused way, you're only trying to help. But, please, don't do it again.
--
[27:13, INT. CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - DAY]
SIR LEON
But, sire, we can win this battle. I know we can.
KING ARTHUR
I don't doubt it. But at what cost? How many men will be slaughtered?
SIR ELYAN
And what if we were to lose this trial? We can't give up our land.
KING ARTHUR
That's the deal I've struck. I believe it to be fair, and I'll stand by it.
AGRAVAINE
Well, then. All that remains, my lord, is for you to choose your champion.
[The Round Table Knights all step forward.]
SIR PERCIVAL
It would be a privilege, sire.
[Elyan steps up to take the challenge, too.]
SIR ELYAN
Sire.
KING ARTHUR
There can only be one choice. One choice which is just and honourable. This fight's mine.
[The knights are not pleased by this, but they can't object to their king. Agravaine is very pleased.]
--
[27:52, INT. ENEMY CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - DAY]
QUEEN ANNIS
I don't like it. It must be a trick.
MORGANA
What concerns you, Your Highness?
QUEEN ANNIS
Arthur. Why would he choose himself as the champion?
MORGANA
Because he's Arthur. He'll always risk his own life before those of his men. Trust me, it's no trick. Arthur will fight.
QUEEN ANNIS
It's as if you were pleased, Morgana. Whatever else he is, Arthur is a great warrior. You have as much to lose as I if he wins. You desire the throne of Camelot, do you not?
MORGANA (enraged)
I don't deny it. It's rightfully mine, after all.
[Annis considers Morgana's emotional response. Morgana calms herself.]
MORGANA
Arthur will not win.
QUEEN ANNIS
How can you possibly know that?
MORGANA
Because I have the power to ensure that he doesn't.
QUEEN ANNIS
Then you must use it.
[Morgana smiles and nods.]
--
[28:50, INT. CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - NIGHT]
[Agravaine takes Arthur's sword while he sleeps.]
--
[29:05, EXT. FOREST - NIGHT]
[Agravaine sneaks through the woods with the sword. He checks for any pursuers, then turns and is surprised to find Morgana standing there.]
AGRAVAINE
Morgana.
MORGANA
Did you get it?
AGRAVAINE
Of course.
[Morgana draws the sword. She kneels down in the middle of three small fires and enchants the sword.]
MORGANA
Efencume ætgædre, eala gastas cræft ige. Hige hefe. Hefe mæst sara. Fornéðe þas, ende hie æra.
[Morgana's eyes glow. She raised the sword by the hilt and the blade bursts into flame.]
MORGANA
Efencume þonne swæs bora!
[Agravaine stands in awe. The flames disappear and Morgana lowers the sword. Agravaine regards her. She smiles.]
MORGANA
Arthur's as good as dead.
--
[30:20, INT. CAMELOT CAMP, ARTHUR'S TENT - DAWN]
[Merlin helps Arthur with his armour.]
KING ARTHUR
Not too tight, Merlin, you don't want to kill me before I've even started.
MERLIN (chuckle)
Sorry.
[Arthur takes off his left glove and pulls off his ring. He turns to Merlin.]
KING ARTHUR
If this day should prove to be my last, give this to Guinevere.
[Arthur hands Merlin the ring. Merlin up sharply.]
KING ARTHUR
Tell her I'm sorry.
MERLIN (nods)
Of course.
[Arthur puts his glove back on.]
MERLIN
Arthur, do you really think this is worth the risk? You're king now. Camelot needs you. Alive.
KING ARTHUR
I don't know what will happen. But for the first time since I became king, I know in my heart I've made the right decision.
[Arthur smiles.]
MERLIN
Well, whatever happens out there...erm...
KING ARTHUR
You're not about to start crying on me, are you?
MERLIN
No. Just, er, good luck.
[They smile.]
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, old friend.
[They shake hands. Agravaine enters.]
AGRAVAINE
It is time, my lord.
KING ARTHUR
Very well.
[Arthur doesn't move.]
AGRAVAINE
Is all in readiness.
KING ARTHUR
Merlin?
[Arthur stands for Merlin's inspection.]
MERLIN
Ready.
[Arthur nods and draws the now-cursed sword. Agravaine smiles as Arthur inspects it.]
KING ARTHUR
Right, then.
[Arthur and Agravaine exit.]
--
[32:09, INT. ENEMY CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - DAY]
[The camera pans up the full length of a mean looking giant.]
QUEEN ANNIS
You have served my husband well, Derían. I know you'll do the same for me.
MORGANA
And Derían, no pity, no quarter. Do not hesitate for one second. Arthur Pendragon must die.
[Derían grins menacingly.]
--
[32:39, EXT. CAMELOT, RIDGE - DAY]
[The armies of Camelot and Caerleon face each other. Derían and Arthur walk to the centre of the gap. Arthur looks up at the giant. Derían bears his teeth. Arthur looks back questionably. Morgana watches from Caerleon's lines. Agravaine grins in Camelot's front line. The fight begins. Derían eventually knocks Arthur to his knees. Arthur rolls out from the blow and slices Derían's cheek. Derían checks for blood and howls, enraged.]
MORGANA
This has gone on long enough.
[Annis turns her head to listen.]
MORGANA
Time to turn the tide. I've enchanted Arthur's sword. It holds the weight of a thousand ages. No one could bear it for long.
[Morgana's eyes glow. Arthur's sword drops like lead behind him. He looks at it, unable to lift it. Derían swings and misses on the down sweep. Arthur punches Derían's face and gets caught on the upsweep of Derían's sword. He cries out in pain. He tries to lift his sword again. Derían begins to strike, but Merlin's eyes glow and Derían freezes mid-swing. Arthur leaves his sword and rams his shoulder into Derían, knocking him over and falling. Morgana is confused. Derían gets up first and kicks Arthur over. Derían picks up his sword and Merlin panics. Morgana and Agravaine smirk. Annis waits. Arthur lies almost helpless and Derían raises his sword over his head.]
MERLIN
*spell*
[The sword drops out of Derían's hands into the ground behind him and he freezes. Arthur rolls up behind Derían, grabs the sword and slices across Derían's back. The giant falls to his knees and Arthur kicks him down. Arthur is poised to strike. He looks up at his men on the ridge. Merlin looks on tensely. Arthur looks down at his fallen enemy and runs the sword into the ground by Derían's head. Arthur's army bursts out cheering.]
SIR PERCIVAL
Long live the king!
[Agravaine is shocked and disappointed as he joins the applause. The Camelot army bursts into.]
KNIGHT
Long live the king!
ARMY
Long live the king! Long live the king! Long live the king!
[Queen Annis heads toward the champions. Morgana turns with a scowl and disappears into Caerleon's army. Annis approaches Arthur.]
QUEEN ANNIS
You are victorious, Arthur Pendragon. And you may rest assured that I shall comply absolutely with the terms of our agreement.
[Arthur holds himself with dignity.]
QUEEN ANNIS
My army will be gone by nightfall.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Your Highness.
[Annis holds out her hand and Arthur grasps it.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Tell me something. You spared my champion. Why?
KING ARTHUR
Because it's not victory I seek. It is peace. I hope that today will mark a new beginning for our kingdoms.
QUEEN ANNIS
There is something about you, Arthur Pendragon. Something which gives me hope for us all.
[She considers him for a moment, then turns to leave.]
--
[37:31, INT. CARLEON'S CAMP, QUEEN ANNIS'S TENT - DAY]
[Queen Annis and her men pack up her tent. Morgana enters.]
QUEEN ANNIS
It seems you do not have the power after all, Morgana. Arthur was made of sterner stuff than you imagined.
MORGANA
There will be other opportunities, Your Highness, and next time he won't be so lucky.
QUEEN ANNIS
There won't be a next time. Not for me, anyway.
MORGANA
What are you talking about?
QUEEN ANNIS
I believe I may have misjudged our young king.
MORGANA (scoffs)
Don't be taken in by his fine words.
QUEEN ANNIS
It wasn't Arthur who misled me. It was you. You are consumed by bitterness, Morgana. It spreads within you like a disease. In my grief, I let you infect me with your hate.
MORGANA
That is untrue. Have you forgotten how Arthur killed your husband? Do you not deny that you sought revenge?
QUEEN ANNIS
Yes, I sought revenge. But that does not mean it was the right thing to do.
MORGANA (laughs/scoffs)
You are weak, Annis, as I thought you were. Go ahead. Make peace with Arthur. But I will not rest until all of Camelot bows before me.
[Morgana turns to leave.]
QUEEN ANNIS
Morgana...
[Morgana turns around.]
QUEEN ANNIS
You came to me in the name of Gorlois, but I fear you're more like Uther than you realise.
[Morgana glares at Annis and stalks out of the tent.]
--
[39:04, EXT. CAMELOT, LOWER TOWN - DAY]
[Arthur and his knights ride triumphantly into Camelot, bells ringing, streamers hung, flags waving, cheering crowds.]
--
[39:20, EXT. CAMELOT, MAIN SQUARE - DAY]
MERLIN
You're a hero.
KING ARTHUR
Thank you, Merlin.
MERLIN
Not to me. To your people.
KING ARTHUR
Right. You think different?
MERLIN
Maybe I know something they don't.
KING ARTHUR
Which is?
MERLIN
You know, that you're a cabbage head.
[Arthur gives his usual puzzled expression, then considers the insult.]
KING ARTHUR
Maybe. I should've listened to you, Merlin. Just this once, I think you were right. Even if you are the worst servant in the five kingdoms.
[Arthur dismounts and Merlin chuckles. The courtiers applaud as Arthur climbs the steps into the palace.]
--
[39:58, INT. KING'S PALACE, ATHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Arthur lies in bed, staring at the ceiling. Someone knocks at the door.]
KING ARTHUR
Come.
[Gwen enters with a pitcher. Arthur pauses when he sees it's her.]
KING ARTHUR
Gwen.
GWEN (nods)
Sire.
[Arthur grabs a bundle of flowers from under a pillow and climbs out of bed.]
KING ARTHUR
These...
[He hurries out to her and presents her with the tiny purple bouquet, which flops limply.]
KING ARTHUR
Are for you.
[She looks at him, looks at the flowers, and takes them ungratefully. Arthur continues cheerfully.]
KING ARTHUR
They're not much, I know. I...picked them by the side of a road.
GWEN
Thank you sire, but...I don't know what they're for.
KING ARTHUR
They're to say, "I'm sorry Guinevere."
GWEN
You don't need to apologize. I understand why things have to be the way they are.
KING ARTHUR (playfully)
Mm. A good king should...respect the traditions of the past, as my father did.
GWEN (morosely)
I know that.
KING ARTHUR
But a good king should also...
[He takes an amorous step towards her.]
KING ARTHUR
Be true to himself...and do as he sees fit...
[He takes another amorous step towards her.]
KING ARTHUR
And be seen with those who he cares for.
[He gives her a significant look. She looks at him hopefully.]
GWEN
Even if they're not...appropriate?
[Arthur grabs her waist and pulls her to him. He kisses her dramatically, then looks down at her, head tilted playfully.]
KING ARTHUR
Does that answer your question?
[Gwen catches his mood and serves it right back.]
GWEN
It's a start.
[The grin at each other, then kiss passionately. Sunlight streams through the windows behind them.]
Note: incantations found at Merlin Wiki