#6. THE WITCHING HOUR PART 2

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MERLIN: KINGDOM COME Season 6 Episode VI “THE WITCHING HOUR PART 2” FADE IN: INTRO KILGHARRAH (V.O.) In a land where magic is all but myth, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of the most powerful sorcerer ever to walk the earth. His name? Merlin. PREVIOUSLY ON MERLIN... TITLES EXT. HILL OVERLOOKING CAMELOT – DAY 1.

FLASHBACK.

[1] The beginning overture of a sunrise. We see the woodland hill that young Merlin climbed to get to Camelot in EP1 of Season 1. This time, atop the hill is ELAINE, who trains her gaze on the distant castle of Camelot. She raises her triple-bladed-axe toward the kingdom and closes her eyes. At the command of her Willpower Magic, darkness falls over Camelot. A tangled mass of storm clouds gathers above the castle. CUT TO: INTERCUT WITH: SERIES OF SHOTS – CONTINUOUS. FLASHBACK. A field of wheat. For the moment it looks healthy and full of life. Then it begins to shrivel and curl in on itself, rotting in a matter of seconds. Other SHOTS of healthy-looking crops are shown: the crops of those fields begin to wither and perish. A FARMER walks out into his field. He stares, speechless, at all of the dead crops that lie around him. His eyes wander to the furious storm clouds that collect overhead. Something is wrong... CUT TO:

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EXT. HILL OVERLOOKING CAMELOT – CONTINUOUS.

FLASHBACK.

ELAINE opens her eyes. The gold color of magic fades from them. She smiles. Her task has only just begun. CUT TO: INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (BEDROOM) – NIGHT 1. MERLIN crashes into his bedroom in an absolute panic. MERLIN Arthur! Get up! Arthur! ARTHUR awakes with a start and tumbles out of bed. He manages to land on his feet, those old soldier's instincts kicking in. ARTHUR (alert) What is it? What’s wrong? MERLIN Mordred. Mordred is back. ARTHUR starts to relax. Of course. ARTHUR Merlin, it’s all right. You were hallucinating again. MERLIN No, no, no. It wasn’t a hallucination. Mordred is alive. He talked to me inside my head. ARTHUR (not buying it) In... your head? MERLIN Yes, with magic. He has his memories. He knows everything. And he’s got Gwaine! ARTHUR Merlin, slow down. Start from the beginning.

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MERLIN is beside himself, but he strives to gain his composure. MERLIN (takes a breath, frantic) I was in the kitchen when I heard him. Some sorcerers can communicate with each other in their minds, telepathically, and Mordred told me he had a proposition: he’ll release Gwaine if we give him Morgana. ARTHUR Are you sure of this? MERLIN Yes, I swear it. I would know Mordred’s voice anywhere. Please, Sire, you have to believe me. MERLIN’s earnestness wins ARTHUR over. ARTHUR All right, calm down. I believe you, just... (beat, realization) Where’s Morgana? MERLIN Probably in her flat. Why? ARTHUR runs past MERLIN, going through the flat to the door. MERLIN whirls around to follow, but his eyes lock onto one of his four walls. In blood-red paint, the words he’d written in his sleep from Episode 3 “The Madness of Merlin” jump out at him: HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF. A chill runs through MERLIN. CUT TO: INT. FLAT BUILDING (CORRIDOR) – NIGHT 1. ARTHUR KNOCKS at the door to MORGANA’s flat. The door is opened by GALAHAD, who, after what happened at dinner earlier that night, is not their biggest fan. ARTHUR Galahad. Where’s Morgana?

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GALAHAD (cold) She’s busy. Why? ARTHUR Just keep a close eye on her. Don’t open the door for anyone but me and Merlin. Actually, don’t open it for anyone but me. GALAHAD You can’t tell me what to do. ARTHUR Just... Lock the door when you get inside. Gladly.

GALAHAD

GALAHAD closes the door just as MERLIN runs up to ARTHUR. MERLIN’s hand goes for the knob. ARTHUR Wait – what are you doing? MERLIN We have to hand Morgana over to Mordred. It’s the only way to save Gwaine. ARTHUR What? No! We will not give her up just like that. MERLIN Arthur, Gwaine's life and yours are at risk. We have to do something! Mordred said he’s watching the building! ARTHUR How long ago did he contact you? MERLIN Barely five minutes. Why? ARTHUR Because I’m going to need you to speak to him again.

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This prospect presents new terrors for MERLIN. INT. KING’S PALACE (ROYAL CHAMBERS) – DAY 1. FLASHBACK. [2] A heavy solemnity is over the royal chambers. GWEN lies on her bed, frail, ill, with LEON at her bedside tenderly pressing a wet cloth to her forehead. An exhausted and somber PERCIVAL enters. PERCIVAL Your Majesty. I know that now is not the time, but there have been strange reports. Disease has ravaged all the kingdom’s crops overnight. The wells have gone dry. A strange sickness is spreading through the lower town... LEON Gwen is not ready for this, Percival. She needs rest — GWEN (cutting him off - weak) Divide what we have from the storerooms among the people. Send out knights to the nearest sources of fresh water. And find Merlin. I’m certain this is the work of sorcery. PERCIVAL Of course. (beat - sincere) I’m sorry for your loss. Sorry for both of you. Sorrowful, PERCIVAL bows and exits. Tears slip from GWEN’s eyes as she places a hand on her stomach: they lost the baby. CUT TO: EXT. ELIZABETH TOWER – CONTINUOUS. Establishing. CUT TO:

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INT. ELIZABETH TOWER – NIGHT 1. GWAINE is still chained up in the tower, guarded by MORDRED, ACCOLON, and MORGAUSE. MORDRED Emrys has yet to acknowledge the offer, but I doubt it will take long. GWAINE (to Accolon, furious) You said you wanted Morgana dead! You lied to me! ACCOLON Surprised, are we, Sir Gwaine? It’s not the first time you’ve been a fool, and I highly doubt it will be the last. MORGAUSE Have they attempted to exit the flat yet? MORDRED I warned him that they are under our watch. Fear not. Merlin will comply with our terms. You can be sure of that. CUT TO: INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (KITCHEN) – NIGHT 1. MERLIN I am not contacting Mordred. ARTHUR Yes, you are. How else are we to negotiate our terms? Just do as I say. Tell him I have a new trade in mind. MERLIN What trade? ARTHUR Just tell him, Merlin.

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Though reluctant, MERLIN closes his eyes, beginning to channel his telepathy. INTERCUT WITH: INT. ELIZABETH TOWER – CONTINUOUS. MORDRED paces along the platform as he waits for a response, the vast bells casting shadows upon him. Mordred.

MERLIN (V.O.)

Upon hearing MERLIN’s voice for the first time in 1,500 years, MORDRED pauses and breaks into a smile. MORDRED (V.O.) (suave) Emrys. How is Arthur? MERLIN (V.O.) This matter will be dealt with on our terms. MORDRED (V.O.) I’m listening. MERLIN (V.O.) Arthur would like to propose a new trade. ARTHUR (instructing Merlin) Gwaine is released... MERLIN (V.O.) You will release Gwaine... ARTHUR (continuing instructions) ...and in return, they will receive me. MERLIN (freezes) What? No. You are not sacrificing yourself in Morgana’s stead, Arthur. I won’t allow it. ARTHUR Tell him, Merlin. MORDRED (V.O.) Well? What would we receive for releasing Gwaine? Page 7 of 51

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MERLIN (V.O.) Hold on, Mordred. MORDRED (V.O.) Perhaps you should have considered your terms before contacting me. My offer remains the same: Gwaine for Morgana. You have until tomorrow's witching hour to make your decision. MERLIN (V.O.) If we refuse, what happens to Gwaine? MORDRED does not respond. He’s gone. ARTHUR What did he say? MERLIN We have until three in the morning tomorrow. After that, the deal will be off. ARTHUR What time is it now? MERLIN Almost four in the morning. ARTHUR Then we’d better form a plan while time is on our side. EXT. CAMELOT (VILLAGE) – DAY 2.

FLASHBACK.

[3] It's the middle of the day, but with the canopy of clouds overhead, it’s almost as dark as evening. GWEN is outside one of the village cottages in discussion with the new PHYSICIAN. She is worn out but resolute. PHYSICIAN Nothing I’ve tried has worked. Once one is stricken with the fever, they die within the day. GWEN It's not your fault. Just keep me informed, and don’t stop searching for a remedy.

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The PHYSICIAN nods. GWEN carries on through the village. LEON is with PERCIVAL when he happens to see her. Concerned, he hurries to her side. LEON Guinevere. What are you doing out here? You need rest. GWEN (continuing her stride) And while I rest, more of our people perish. I cannot just lie around with all that’s happening. MOUNTED KNIGHT (O.C.) Your Majesties! GWEN and LEON whirl around. The streets’ VILLAGERS rush to the sides to clear a path as a MOUNTED KNIGHT gallops toward the Queen and king. He pulls to a stop before them, clearly distressed. MOUNTED KNIGHT Your Majesties, a host is approaching from the east! They march on Camelot! LEON How many men? MOUNTED KNIGHT Roughly ten thousand. GWEN Whose standard do they bear? MOUNTED KNIGHT No standard, Your Majesty. They carry no banners or flags. GWEN Who leads them? MOUNTED KNIGHT A woman. She wears a blindfold and carries an axe with three blades. GWEN exchanges a worried frown with LEON. How can anyone fight blindfolded? CUT TO:

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EXT. KING’S PALACE (CASTLE WALL) – CONTINUOUS.

FLASHBACK.

GWEN, LEON, PERCIVAL and several SOLDIERS and KNIGHTS stand on the parapet. In the distance, a titanic ENEMY ARMY marches into their territory. It is led by a blindfolded ELAINE in her ivory white armour, bearing her menacing triple-bladed axe. GWEN Rally the men. Prepare for battle. KNIGHT #1 Shall we close the gates? GWEN The gates stay open until Merlin and his apprentice return. KNIGHT #1 But the people — GWEN (cutting him off) Post extra soldiers, but leave the gates open for Merlin as long as you can! KNIGHT #1 bows and exits. GWEN (passionate) If we die, we will die with swords in our hands! LEON For the love of Camelot! SOLDIERS / KNIGHTS For the love of Camelot! GWEN gazes out over ELAINE’s approaching forces, her fear laced with determination. GWEN (to herself) For the love of Camelot.

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INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) / EXT. LONDON CITY (FLAT BUILDING / STREET) – DAY 1. [4] From the window, ARTHUR scans the buildings and busy street for any signs of their enemies. ARTHUR Mordred must have accomplices. How else could he have captured Gwaine from right under our noses? MERLIN (bitter) I'm sure he’s made contacts. Goodness knows how long that killer's been back. But I don't understand why. Only you were supposed to come back... ARTHUR We need to keep Morgana under watch. If Mordred does have an eye on the flat, she cannot leave until we’ve found a way to resolve this. If we lose her, we not only lose our way to save Gwaine but any chance of reconciliation with her. MERLIN Not to mention she would join forces with Mordred to bring about your downfall – again. ARTHUR Merlin, a bit of optimism would be helpful. You see, if you had poisoned her yesterday, Mordred would have no use for Gwaine. He’d kill him. Another reason why you should think things through. MERLIN is silent. Despondent, even. Beat. MERLIN (low) I just don’t want history to repeat itself. ARTHUR What do you mean? MERLIN Nothing. Forget it. Page 11 of 51

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ARTHUR looks at him. Rethinks himself. ARTHUR (beat) Look... I’m sorry. I have no right to find fault with you. You’ve only ever sought to protect me. Still silent. The prospect of losing ARTHUR to MORDRED or MORGANA is beyond terrifying for MERLIN. Sigh. ARTHUR comes and places a reassuring hand on his shoulder; MERLIN takes his wrist and holds his hand there. They look each other in the eye. MERLIN (emotion slipping through) Arthur, if anything were to happen to you now... ARTHUR It won't. Mordred is foolish to think he stands a chance against you. MERLIN But there must be some reason he's here. What if it's to take you away again? ARTHUR Why would that be? MERLIN (worked up) I don't know. Why did I have to wait 1,500 years? Why couldn't I have gotten you to the Lake in time? Why did you have to die at all? None of it makes sense. It never has. ARTHUR (gentle) Hey, hey. Merlin, I am all right. I swear on my life -MERLIN (cutting him off) Not your life.

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ARTHUR -- on someone else's life: no one is going to kill me. Your waiting is over. Forever. I will not let anything happen to myself or to you. That’s a promise. All right? That’s a hard promise for MERLIN to believe after all the pain he’s known. MERLIN I can't lose you again. I can't bear it. ARTHUR You can’t bear something? Now there is the biggest lie I’ve ever heard. Merlin Ambrosius can’t do something. Rubbish! Merlin, you have no idea how strong you are. At this point, I’d believe you could do just about anything. By now I just hope you wait for me to catch my breath before you go on to amaze me again. Wow. It’s been – how long has it been? – since anyone has spoken to MERLIN with such faith. He’s used to being the one to encourage ARTHUR. With these roles reversed... he’s touched by the words of affirmation. [5] The PHONE rings. How inconvenient. Vexed, MERLIN answers it -in his Dolma voice. MERLIN (elderly female voice) Ah, yes, speaking. ARTHUR stares at him in silence. Could this day get any weirder? MERLIN (elderly female voice) No, the castle is not for sale. My apologies. Have a lovely day. MERLIN hangs up. ARTHUR gives him an odd look. ARTHUR I’d ask why you assume the voice of an old woman when using that device, but then you’d tell me, and I’d probably wish you hadn’t. Probably.

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With a sigh, MERLIN goes to the window to scan the perimeter as ARTHUR paces in thought. MERLIN I'm worried about Gwaine. During ARTHUR’s following dialogue, MERLIN notices something outside the window and freezes, stunned. ARTHUR As am I. Goodness knows what they are doing to him. They will stop at nothing to get what they want. I only hope he lasts. We need to get to him before it’s too late... MERLIN Hey, uh, Sire... You might want to come and see this. ARTHUR (joining Merlin at the window) Yes, Merlin, it looks like rain. We have more important things to think about right now. MERLIN More important than Elyan?

What?

ARTHUR (double-take)

MERLIN Unless I’m hallucinating again, that’s him down there. MERLIN points out ELYAN, who stands on the sidewalk outside trying to hail a CAB like any normal person would, as if they hadn't seen him die before their eyes over 1,500 years past. Growing accustomed to such unexpected meetings, ARTHUR doesn’t waste a beat. He bolts out the front door with MERLIN right behind him. CUT TO: EXT. LONDON CITY (FLAT BUILDING) – CONTINUOUS. ELYAN has just flagged down a CAB as ARTHUR and MERLIN run from the flat to stop him. ARTHUR Elyan! Elyan! Wait! Page 14 of 51

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ELYAN glances up to see them coming towards him. ELYAN (oblivious) Can I help you gentlemen? ARTHUR Uh, we... we... um... MERLIN (offering his hand) I’m Merlin. This is Arthur. ELYAN (shaking Merlin’s hand) Oh, you must be the neighbors Ms. Le Fay mentioned. I’m Dr. Thomas. MERLIN (putting things together; shocked) Dr. Thomas...? Wait... YOU’RE MORGANA’S PSYCHIATRIST? ELYAN Ah, so she mentioned me. Very sweet girl. I was just... (a frown forms) ...just dropping something off for her... Hey, do I... Do I already know you from somewhere? MERLIN (eager) Maybe. Possibly. Probably. ELYAN Hmm. Maybe I’ll place it later. Well, I need to get going. It was nice meeting you. ELYAN heads toward the CAB again, opens the door, and begins to situate his briefcase inside. ARTHUR Wait, wait! Don’t go! (low voice, to Merlin) You go inside and keep an eye on Morgana. She cannot be left unattended, especially with Mordred watching the building. MERLIN (low) What about you? Page 15 of 51

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ARTHUR I’ll deal with Elyan. MERLIN I’m not leaving you alone. ARTHUR (reassuring) I’m not alone: I’ll have Elyan. He's one of my finest knights -- at least he will be when he remembers. MERLIN My Lord, I have to protect you – ARTHUR (cutting him Trust me. I’ll be (lying) I... just need to convince Elyan to us. We can't have Mordred's hands.

off) all right. find a way to come inside with him falling into

With immense reluctance, MERLIN obeys out of respect alone and heads back to their flat. ELYAN glances back to see that ARTHUR is still standing there. ELYAN Is something wrong? ARTHUR (impatient) No, no, nothing. Where is your sister? ELYAN (surprised) Gwen? You know her? ARTHUR (excited) Yes, yes! I know her. We’re old friends. Where is she? ELYAN She’s overseeing a trial. A trial?

ARTHUR

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ELYAN Well, yes. She’s a judge. I’m meeting her for lunch after the trial. ARTHUR Will you take me to her? ELYAN eyes him, puzzled. Please?

ARTHUR CUT TO:

INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) / EXT. LONDON CITY (FLAT BUILDING / STREET) – CONTINUOUS. MERLIN hurries to the window to check on ARTHUR just in time to see him enter the CAB with ELYAN. MERLIN (stunned) What...? The CAB drives off at high speed. MERLIN (outraged) Damn it, Arthur! He slams the windowsill. MERLIN Mordred is watching! What are you thinking?! CUT TO: INT. ELIZABETH TOWER – CONTINUOUS. [6] MORDRED spins away from the window where he was watching MERLIN’s flat. MORDRED (excited) Arthur has left the flat! ACCOLON (alarmed) What? Where is he? MORDRED In a cab. I’m going after him. Page 17 of 51

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ACCOLON grabs MORDRED to stop him. ACCOLON No, Mordred! Odds are it’s a trap. MORDRED Trap or no trap, I’m going. MORGAUSE I agree with Mordred. I am sick of waiting around doing nothing. Let me get Morgana: I do not fear Emrys. ACCOLON Neither of you are going anywhere! GWAINE observes his captors’ exchange with amusement. MORDRED But there is nothing protecting Arthur now! I have to kill him! ACCOLON You forget two very important things. One: even if you did manage to kill Arthur, you would have Emrys to answer to. And two: Arthur has a sword forged in a Dragon’s breath — a sword that he used to kill you before, Mordred, and would use again. MORDRED whirls away, exasperated. ACCOLON (to Morgause) As for you. Morgana is being guarded by Emrys. You may be foolish enough not to fear him, but let me tell you I fear him very much! If you want to sabotage everything we have been working towards, then be my guest! MORGAUSE is not as easily swayed as MORDRED – she still looks determined. Linger on that scheming glint in her eye... GWAINE Whoo! Sounds like things are heating up! ACCOLON (to Gwaine, fuming) Shut up! CUT TO: Page 18 of 51

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INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) – CONTINUOUS. [7] With haste MERLIN slides on his coat and opens the door. He's got to go after that idiot king before their enemies find him. MERLIN (grumbling) Impulsive, witless prat! CUT TO: INT. FLAT BUILDING (CORRIDOR / STAIRS) – CONTINUOUS. He slams the door shut and storms down the hall for the stairs. He starts down them at full speed and RAMS into MORGANA who was coming up. Both cry out in surprise. MORGANA's eyes widen in fright as she starts to topple backward. MERLIN grabs her by the arm -- she starts to take him with her. Quickly he seizes the rail so that when they fall, they don't roll to the bottom. MORGANA What -- do you just not look where you're going?! I could've broken my neck! In a huff she gets her feet back under her and stomps up the rest of the stairs. A flustered MERLIN sits there in her wake. MERLIN (grumbling, incredulous) I have a neck too. He gets up, clears the rest of the stairs, opens the door, about to hurry out after Arthur... Hesitates... He glances back up the stairs after her... Slams the door shut, spins around, starts back up the stairs. MERLIN (grumbling) Fine, Arthur. I'll watch your sister, but you bloody well better watch your own back or I'll kill you myself.

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SERIES OF SHOTS: EXT. CAMELOT (VILLAGE / STREET / MAIN SQUARE) – DAY 2. FLASHBACK. Camelot is overrun. Fires burn. Frightened VILLAGERS flock into the main square, seeking protection from the ENEMY ARMY. CUT TO: EXT. CAMELOT (MAIN SQUARE) – CONTINUOUS.

FLASHBACK.

ENEMY SOLDIERS close in. Some VILLAGERS rush about the courtyard, disoriented from fear and unsure of where to hide. Other VILLAGERS attempt to defend themselves but are quickly cut down. GWEN strives to maintain order, but with ENEMY SOLDIERS pouring in through their gates, panic is eminent. She ushers some VILLAGERS up the main square steps and inside the castle for protection. GWEN Everyone inside! All of you! Listen to me! You must take shelter! KNIGHT #2 stumbles toward GWEN, pressing a hand to the bleeding wound in his side. KNIGHT #2 (over the clamor) My Lady! There are too many of them! We must close the gates! GWEN Has anyone seen Merlin? KNIGHT #2 There has been no sign of him! GWEN beholds the chaos overwhelming the courtyard. VILLAGERS scream and scatter. CAMELOT SOLDIERS attempt to shield them from ENEMY SOLDIERS. Her mighty kingdom is on the brink of destruction. An exhausted and blood-spattered PERCIVAL backs into the main square leading an assortment of KNIGHTS. He slices an ENEMY SOLDIER to the ground. GWEN Percival! Where is Merlin?! PERCIVAL I don’t know!

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ELAINE, still blindfolded, marches into the main square with the ENEMY ARMY at her back. PERCIVAL charges toward her with a roaring battle-cry and raises his sword to strike. ELAINE slashes her triple-bladed axe across his chest. PERCVIAL cries out in agony. GWEN GASPS, gutted by the sight. PERCIVAL falls: he is DEAD. GWEN (shrieking) PERCIVAL! ELAINE’s blindfolded gaze fixes upon GWEN. Unarmed, GWEN slowly backs away up the main steps. Once at the top, GWEN spins around to witness her people falling all around her. Terrified VILLAGERS race past her to get inside. It’s too much to bear. The cries, the blood, the death. She closes her eyes. Her people can wait no longer. GWEN (gives in; shouting) Close the gates! Close them! Now! Close the gates! Hurry! KNIGHTS rush to carry out her command as GWEN joins the flow of those seeking shelter and heads inside. CUT TO: INT. KING’S PALACE (GRIFFIN STAIRCASE) – DAY 2.

FLASHBACK.

GWEN explodes into the hall where the commotion is hardly different than that in the courtyard. A hand seizes her by the arm. She screams. LEON Gwen! It’s all right! It’s me! GWEN (emotional) Leon. Percival is dead. LEON (stunned) What...? (beat, collecting himself) Seek refuge in the throne room. If by some miracle we survive this, Camelot will need a ruler. GWEN What about you? Page 21 of 51

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LEON Don’t worry about me. Go! GWEN takes a few steps away... But she stops. Turns around. Leon.

GWEN

LEON meets her eyes. This is the end, isn't it? The last time they will ever speak to one another. He runs back to her and pulls her into his arms – they share a desperate kiss. LEON (pulls back) I love you, Guinevere. I always have. Too soon, LEON releases her and charges into the main square out to defend Camelot. GWEN lingers a moment, staring after him, and then retreats up the stairs. CUT TO: INT. FLAT BUILDING (CORRIDOR) – DAY 1. [8] MERLIN stands outside MORGANA’s door. Anxious. Uncomfortable. In an all-around foul mood. Preparing himself for the worst, he raps on the door. MORGANA answers, wearing the same dress from dinner last night. Shoes on. Makeup fresh. Cup of coffee in one hand, handbag in the other. She’s been getting ready to go somewhere. She’s also irritated to see MERLIN. MORGANA (she hates him) What do you want? MERLIN (he hates her too - unenthusiastic) I wanted to apologize for what I said yesterday at dinner. My behavior was despicable, my words deplorable. I don’t know what came over me... MORGANA No, neither do I. (over her shoulder) Gally, I need to get going. Good luck!

GALAHAD (O.S.)

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MORGANA (to Merlin) Are you finished? I have to get to a job interview. MERLIN You’re leaving Galahad alone? MORGANA No, I just arranged for the landlady to come watch him. Are you going to start telling me how to raise my son, too? MERLIN (irritable, sarcastic) Well, if you would give me all of one second to explain... GALAHAD comes up behind MORGANA, holding her phone up. GALAHAD For you, Mum. MORGANA puts her handbag down on the floor and takes the phone in her free hand (the one not holding her coffee). MERLIN stands awkwardly in the doorway. Should he come in or not? MORGANA (into cell phone) Hello? (beat) Yes, that’s me. I’m on my way right now... (beat, confused) What? But you haven’t even seen me yet. If you would just give me a chance — No, no, wait! Wait! MORGANA turns her back to MERLIN. This is awkward for everyone. MORGANA (into phone, desperate) I need this job. You can’t do this. Wait -- please... MERLIN and GALAHAD exchange glances across the way. This doesn’t sound good. After a beat, MORGANA lowers her phone. The call has ended. She stands there, lost. GALAHAD Was that the job people? Page 23 of 51

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MORGANA (crestfallen) They didn’t want me. They picked someone else. (beat; exasperated, spinning to Merlin) Look, why don’t you — MORGANA stumbles over her handbag. Coffee sloshes down the front of her dress. MORGANA Oh! Ah... This is my only nice dress. I need this for my interviews... GALAHAD retrieves a towel from the kitchen. MORGANA accepts it and tries in vain to dab the spilled coffee from her dress. MERLIN (a genuine try) Well... Hey, at least you don’t have to go anywhere today. MORGANA gives up trying to save her dress. She slams the door in his face. That went well. MERLIN heaves a sigh. Maybe he should have tried harder... CUT TO: INT. CAB – DAY 1. Backseat. ELYAN eyes ARTHUR, who keeps his eyes trained on the road through the window. ELYAN How do you know my sister? ARTHUR You could say... we were together, for a time. ELYAN She never mentioned you. ARTHUR I imagine not. ELYAN Are you sure we mean the same Gwen?

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ARTHUR Guinevere Thomas. She’s unafraid of hard work, knows how to handle herself and everyone else. She draws out the good in everyone, and where there is no good, she provides it. (beat) That Guinevere? ELYAN (mildly taken aback) That’s right. I guess you must know her after all. ARTHUR You could say that again. ELYAN gives ARTHUR a curious once-over as ARTHUR resumes staring out the window. CUT TO: INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) – DAY 1. MERLIN paces in his flat, casting fretful glances out the window. MERLIN (grumbling) Complete simpleton. I waited 1,500 years for him to throw himself into every dangerous situation that arises. Ridiculous. (sighing) Arthur, where are you? The PHONE rings. MERLIN answers it. MERLIN (annoyed) Who is it? MAN I called earlier with a question concerning the castle you own. Is it possible you would reconsider and sell it to me?

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MERLIN doesn't recognize the voice, and the audience doesn’t know who’s on the other end yet. Shaking his head with irritation, MERLIN adopts his fallback Dolma voice. MERLIN (elderly female voice) I told you once and I’ll tell you again: the castle is not for sale and never will be! MAN How old are you? MERLIN frowns, trying to remember. Not every alter ego could have an exact age... MERLIN (elderly female voice, irritated) I don’t know... 104? MAN Is your health... decent? MERLIN (elderly female voice) I hardly believe that’s any of your business. Goodbye! MERLIN hangs up. He sends an anxious glance up at the clock, then resumes his pacing. EXT. ANCIENT SHRINE – DAY 2. FLASBACK. [9] Overcast. LONG-SHOT of the old shrine MERLIN and ELAINE visited in Ep5 of Season 6. CUT TO a SHOT of the tomb in which ELAINE trapped him. It is in the midst of a violent storm. Erratic strikes of lightning. Cracks of thunder. Coincidentally on the most climactic strike, MERLIN’s magic BLOWS the tomb’s lid off. MERLIN GASPS, bolting upright, eyes adjusting to the sudden light at being unconscious for so long. He braces the side of his back where ELAINE stabbed him as he rises, groaning from the effort. He tries to climb out of the tomb and onto his feet only to fall to the ground, weak from loss of blood. He puts a hand over his injured side. MERLIN (pained) Þurhhæle licsar min.

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He raises his bloodstained shirt. We can see his wound heal until not a trace remains. MERLIN takes a step forward, stumbles. He gets his feet under him and continues on foot. He needs to get back to Camelot before it’s too late. CUT TO: EXT. HILL OVERLOOKING CAMELOT – DAY 2.

FLASHBACK.

MERLIN sees the destruction of Camelot — smoke rises and the ENEMY ARMY pours into the city. Horror washes over him. No...

MERLIN CUT TO:

EXT. BEYOND CAMELOT’S GATES – DAY 2. FLASHBACK. KNIGHTS of Camelot fight ELAINE’s army and still try to keep them from penetrating the castle, but they are severely outnumbered. The KNIGHTS gape in terror as the gates EXPLODE open. They expect more ENEMY SOLDIERS to spill into the main square. Their vision is obscured by thick dust and smoke, but as it settles, MERLIN is seen stalking out of the smoke. CAMERA PANS up and over MERLIN, soaring above the gates to reveal what the sorcerer has left in his wake: hundreds upon hundreds of dead ENEMY SOLDIERS cover the earth. MERLIN has not left one of them standing. CUT TO: INT. MORGANA’S FLAT (THE LOO) — DAY 1. [10] Now wearing fresh clothes, MORGANA bends over her sink with the water running as she frantically scrubs away at the coffee stains on her dress. CUT TO: INT. LONDON CITY (STREET) – CONTINUOUS. MORGAUSE stands across the street from MERLIN’s flat. She watches the building. Morgana.

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INT. MORGANA’S FLAT (THE LOO) – CONTINUOUS. MORGANA freezes in the middle of her scrubbing. Her head snaps up. No, not again. A look of sudden fear takes hold of her. MORGAUSE (V.O.) Morgana, it is your sister. I last contacted you a few weeks ago to inquire about your location. MORGANA drops her dress in the sink with trembling hands. She stares ahead into the mirror, terrified. MORGAUSE (V.O.) I know where you are now. They cannot keep you from me. MORGANA’s losing it at this point. She answers out loud, as she does not remember how to use her telepathy. MORGANA No... Not again... MORGAUSE (V.O.) I know you can hear me, Morgana. You must listen. Come outside. Cross the street that is in front of your flat. She holds her head, so scared. She has no idea what's happening to her. MORGANA No... Leave me alone! MORGAUSE (V.O.) You will come outside and cross the street now. It is vital that you obey. Tell no one where you have gone. You will listen to me, and you will trust me. MORGANA (distraught) GO AWAY! MORGAUSE (V.O.) If you do this, I will leave you alone. If you do not, the voices will never stop. You must trust me, sister. I mean you no harm. MORGANA bows against the mirror, shaking her head. CUT TO: Page 28 of 51

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INT. ELIZABETH TOWER – DAY 1. MORDRED approaches ACCOLON, seeing his perplexed frown. MORDRED What is it? ACCOLON Have you seen Morgause? MORDRED No, I thought she was... The two glance around, look back at each other. This can't be good. ACCOLON I'm going after her. Stay. He hurries off. MORDRED and GWAINE are left alone together. Conditions have not improved for GWAINE. All strength has been wrung from him after the hours of dark magic torture. From the shadows of the bells, MORDRED emerges and looms toward him. MORDRED The witching hour draws nearer, and yet your friends have made no attempt to rescue you. GWAINE is silent, too weary to fight back this time. MORDRED It is hardly surprising, given that when I reached out to the Knights for help in my hour of need, they refused to give it. Arthur spoke of equality, yet he and all his men clearly had their favorites. (whispering in Gwaine’s ear) So much for the brotherhood of the Knights. Grabbing GWAINE by the hair, MORDRED gives the Knight’s head a rough shove. Then he leaves him. CAMERA lingers on GWAINE alone. CUT TO:

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INT. MORGANA’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) – DAY 1. GALAHAD plays with his toy knights on the floor. He looks up when MORGANA comes down the hall and starts for the door. She has pulled herself together, but there is fear in her eyes. GALAHAD Mum? Where are you going? MORGANA I’m just stepping outside. GALAHAD Is it the voices again? MORGANA freezes. She forces a reassuring smile. MORGANA I’ll only be across the street. I’ll be back in a few minutes. GALAHAD You don’t have to listen to them, Mum. MORGANA Just stay here. MORGANA leaves her flat. Nervous, GALAHAD stares after her. CUT TO: INT. FLAT BUILDING (STAIRS) – CONTINUOUS. [11] MORGANA’s breath is shaky. She's scared to death as she heads down the stairs. MORGAUSE (V.O.) Come, Morgana. It will be all right. You have my word: I will not harm you. Just come outside. CUT TO:

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INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) / EXT. LONDON CITY (FLAT BUILDING / STREET) – CONTINUOUS. A frantic KNOCK at the door interrupts MERLIN’s anxious pacing. His face brightens with hope. He opens the door... It’s GALAHAD. MERLIN (disappointed) You’re not Arthur. GALAHAD I think my mum’s in danger. MERLIN What do you mean? GALAHAD I don’t know, but she sometimes hears these voices that tell her to do things, and I can usually tell because she gets really upset — and this time, I think they told her to go outside – MERLIN (cutting him off) Wait — Morgana’s outside? MERLIN dashes to the window and looks out. Outside, MORGANA waits for a moment to cross the street. Waiting for her on the side of the street is MORGAUSE. MERLIN (horrified) Oh, no... Morgana...! MERLIN races past GALAHAD and out the front door. CUT TO: INT. FLAT BUILDING (STAIRS) – CONTINUOUS. He bolts down the stairs, skipping the last few steps. CUT TO:

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EXT. LONDON CITY (FLAT BUILDING / STREET) – CONTINUOUS. The door crashes open. MERLIN bursts onto the sidewalk. MORGANA has stepped off the curb and is a few paces into the street. MERLIN Morgana! Wait! She whips around at MERLIN’s voice. We CUT TO MORGAUSE across the street. She is incensed at MERLIN’s interference.

No!

MORGAUSE (furious hiss)

CUT BACK TO MERLIN as he rushes to MORGANA and seizes her by the arm. MORGANA (startled, angry) What -! Let go! He starts to tug her to the sidewalk, despite her struggling against him. MERLIN You need to get inside. MORGANA (jerking her arm away) You can't tell me what to do! MERLIN (takes her arm again) Morgana, I insist. MORGANA (trying to pull away) I’ll come back. I just – need – Just stay out of it, Merlin! I have to do this! MERLIN Morgana, please, you’re not thinking clearly — MORGANA (wrenches her arm away) I AM NOT CRAZY! Page 32 of 51

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Words he's uttered many times himself. MERLIN stops and stares at her for a beat. A sudden empathy moves into his eyes. MERLIN I know. I know you’re not. MORGANA stares, scared and confused, but somewhat less defensive. MERLIN But don’t do this. Come back to your son. Galahad is worried about you. MORGANA wavers. She’s bewildered by the madness of it all, but finally complies and lets MERLIN guide her back to the flat. MORGAUSE watches from across the street, outraged that her plan has been foiled. She raises a hand toward MERLIN, about fire a spell... MERLIN senses her without even turning around. His eyes flash gold. MORGAUSE is sent flying backwards against a building. She crashes to the ground, disoriented, as MERLIN helps MORGANA inside. Enraged MORGAUSE gets up. She starts toward their flat -- but suddenly ACCOLON steps in front of her. ACCOLON What. The hell. Are you doing. MORGAUSE Do not stand in my way! Morgana is within our reach and I will wait no longer! ACCOLON Oh, so you will charge in there, recover your sister, restore her memories, and walk out together unscathed like you already own the world? Do you really think Emrys will let her out of his sight now that you've gone and made matters worse? MORGAUSE I told you I do not fear Emrys!

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Beat. ACCOLON lifts a hand. Slowly he clenches it into a fist. MORGAUSE's eyes widen -- her mouth is open, but no air is coming out. Like he did with the officer in EP2 of Season 6, he is sucking the air out of her lungs. She grasps at her throat... His hand opens, releasing the spell. MORGAUSE staggers, gasping, staring at him in shock. ACCOLON (dark) Then, fear me. (beat) Get back to the tower. He starts to lead the way. No more demonstration is needed for MORGAUSE to follow. INT. KING’S PALACE (THRONE ROOM) – DAY 2. FLASHBACK. [12] GWEN stands tall as wounded KNIGHTS relay events of the ongoing battle. KNIGHT #3 The men can no longer fend off this evil. What are we to do? GWEN Help anyone you can find escape to the borders. Seek refuge with Queen Annis or Queen Mithian. They will not turn you away. KNIGHT #4 What about you, My Lady? GWEN I belong in Camelot. KNIGHT #3 My Lady, you must come with us — GWEN (cutting him off) I will not abandon my home! You must save yourselves before it is too late.

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The KNIGHTS exchange looks. Finally they bow and exit out the back. GWEN is left alone in the middle of the council chamber. Mounted on the wall behind her are two crossed swords. She draws one. Never has she been more afraid. CLAMORING arises outside the doors a few moments after the KNIGHTS’ departure. GWEN straightens to her full height, hands trembling as she grips the sword. The doors BANG. She jolts, gasping, but they have not opened yet. She closes her eyes, silently crying. The doors BANG again, and her eyes open, expecting to see ENEMY SOLDIERS swarming in, but the doors are still shut. After GWEN takes a breath, the doors BANG a third time, and this time, they give way. Blindfolded, ELAINE leads ENEMY SOLDIERS into the council chambers, heading for GWEN. GWEN lifts her sword and puts on a brave face. She moves in to strike ELAINE. ELAINE deflects the attack with her triple-bladed axe. They engage in combat for a few measures, slashing and blocking, locking and unlocking. Both are skilled warriors and able to hold their own against each other. However, ELAINE uses her magic to RAM GWEN down into the stone floor. GWEN gasps. She can’t move. Something must be broken from such an impact. ELAINE’s shadow crosses GWEN as the sorceress towers over her. ELAINE raises her triple-bladed axe. GWEN watches in horror. CUT TO: INT. KING’S PALACE (OUTSIDE THE THRONE ROOM) – CONTINUOUS. FLASHBACK. GWEN’s SCREAM rings through the halls and fades into silence. EXT. / INT. COURTHOUSE / COURTHOUSE (ENTRANCE HALL) — DAY 1. Overcast. Raining. Afternoon. ELYAN’s CAB pulls up outside the courthouse. Before it comes to a full stop, ARTHUR swings open the door and runs out. He speeds up the flight of steps, jumping a few steps at a time. ELYAN catches up with him as they burst through the doors into the entrance. ARTHUR Where is she?

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ELYAN Just down that hall to the left... Before ELYAN finishes, ARTHUR runs in that direction. EXT. CAMELOT (MAIN SQUARE) – DAY 2.

FLASHBACK.

[13] Heartbroken, MERLIN closes dead PERCIVAL’s eyes. After putting his hand on one of PERCIVAL’s for a moment, he gains control over his emotions and rises. Things just got personal. ELAINE’s ARMY swarms all around him. His eyes are dead-set on the castle entrance. Many attempt to shoot arrows at him, but, like a badass, he uses his magic to ensure that they all miss. SERIES OF SHOTS: INT. KING’S PALACE (GRIFFIN STAIRCASE / PHOENIX CORRIDOR / OUTSIDE THE COUNCIL CHAMBER) – CONTINUOUS. FLASHBACK. MERLIN runs up Griffin Staircase... ...and down Phoenix Corridor... ...and races until he reaches the hall outside the throne room and enters. CUT TO: INT. KING’S PALACE (THRONE ROOM) – CONTINUOUS.

FLASHBACK.

GWEN lies motionless on the stone floor, her back to MERLIN. MERLIN's mouth falls open. No! Not Gwen! He rushes toward her. MERLIN (horrified) Gwen! Oh, Gwen... He rolls GWEN onto her side. Deep, deep gash in her stomach. It’s sickening to see. ELAINE, still blindfolded, slinks out from behind a column. MERLIN senses her presence and whirls around. MERLIN (distraught) What have you done? ELAINE What needed to be done. MERLIN Have you no mercy? Page 36 of 51

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ELAINE Compassion blinds judgment. I serve only what the Goddess has determined this world deserves, no more or less. It’s beyond too much for MERLIN. All of his friends are dead. His home has been destroyed. It’s no longer mere grief for him. He has been completely shattered. We see him rise, trembling with rage. MERLIN This is not judgment. This is carnage! What you’ve done... (anguished, terrifying beat) You have defiled magic’s sacred purpose! And you are no longer a worthy servant of the power you wield. ELAINE does not feel threatened. What is the worst he could do? MERLIN (incanting) Be thē hālig eafoð, I bindan ēower seiðr dēop in ēow! A gold vapor is sucked in glittering veins from ELAINE's hands. ELAINE (less sure of herself) What are you doing? MERLIN (emotional, building) Ēower gif sy forbēodan ungewítendlic! The gold vapor starts to evaporate through ELAINE’s blindfold from her eyes. It is sucked from every part of her, collecting into a brilliant, golden globe that hovers in the air. ELAINE (horrified) What are you doing?! From MERLIN’s hands, a silver vapor flows out and forms into a chain. The chain coils around the hovering globe of ELAINE’s magic and BINDS it; ELAINE JOLTS. MERLIN (screaming) Ēow mæg nǣfre wealdan hit ongægn, būta gif I brecan thē cræft!

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MERLIN directs the bound globe back at ELAINE and shoots it into her with a vibrant flash of magic light that EXPLODES. ELAINE collapses to the floor. The globe has disappeared. Weakly, she pushes herself up on her hands and pulls off her blindfold. ELAINE What did you do to me? MERLIN I have bound your magic so deeply within you that you may never wield it again. ELAINE gapes up at MERLIN with fear - an emotion she has rarely experienced. MERLIN picks up ELAINE’s triple-bladed axe and draws near, weapon ready. He raises it up to strike a mortal blow – he can barely keep it steady. He's shaking with fury. He stares at her for a long beat... And casts it to the floor next to her. MERLIN Remember what mercy feels like. You would not have received it elsewhere. ELAINE crawls backwards a few paces, terrified. Taking the axe, she pushes herself up from the floor and flees. Now MERLIN throws himself down on his knees beside GWEN and pulls her into his arms. A moan from GWEN – she stirs. She’s still alive! He presses the wound on her stomach. GWEN (strained) You’re here. MERLIN (emotional) Gwen, your wound... The baby... GWEN She isn’t there anymore, Merlin. She was stillborn. We lost her. GWEN gasps from the pain. It’s too much. MERLIN cradles her, his battered heart breaking to see her this way. MERLIN I’m so sorry. Gwen, I’m so sorry...

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GWEN It’s all right... I’m going to be with her soon... Merlin... when Arthur comes back, you take good care of him... for me. No, no, no – this can’t be happening. GWEN draws one last frail breath... exhales. MERLIN (terrified) Gwen? Gwen? She's gone. LONG SHOT. MERLIN cradles GWEN, sobbing in the midst of the remnants of Camelot, his ruined and desolate home. INT. COURTHOUSE (COURTROOM) – DAY 1. [14] ARTHUR explodes into the courtroom. The court is in session. Countless PEOPLE fill the room. They turn their heads to see who has entered, but ARTHUR’s gaze goes straight to GWEN, who sits at the Bench, black robes, white wig. Their eyes meet. Guinevere?

ARTHUR

Long beat. No one knows how to react to this. GWEN (stern) What do you think you’re doing? MAN (to GWEN) Do you know him, Your Honor? No.

GWEN

ARTHUR Guinevere...

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ARTHUR starts down the aisle toward her. From the corner of his eye, he sees BAILIFFS motion to each other. A few of them start to grab at ARTHUR as he breaks into a run. He makes it to the Bench before anyone can stop him. ARTHUR (fast, desperate) Guinevere. It’s me. It’s Arthur. I know you don’t remember me, but I’m your husband. You have to listen. GWEN I’ve never seen you before in all my life. Who do you think you are to barge in during the middle of a trial? ARTHUR I know how insane this must sound, but you must believe me. GWEN You’re mistaken. (looking around) Will someone get him out of here? ARTHUR No, Guinevere! I could never mistake you. GWEN (uncomfortable) Why do you call me Guinevere? No one calls me that. ARTHUR I do. I always have. BAILIFFS advance on ARTHUR. ARTHUR (getting frantic) Wait! Several centuries ago, against all odds, we fell in love. We were married. Since then, I died, as did you, but we have both returned now! GWEN This is insane! ARTHUR Yes, it is! It’s completely insane! You must search your heart, Guinevere. You know who I am! Page 40 of 51

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BAILIFFS seize ARTHUR and struggle to gain control over him. ARTHUR No, listen to me! Please, Guinevere, I’m begging you! GWEN Escort this man from the building. The BAILIFFS begin pulling ARTHUR back. BALIFF #1 Come with us, sir... ARTHUR (struggling against BALIFFS, shouting) Wait, Guinevere, no! You have to believe me! GWEN turns back to her papers. ARTHUR breaks free briefly before the BAILIFFS take hold of him again and force him toward the door. ARTHUR Guinevere, no! As they haul him away, ARTHUR desperately screams out... ARTHUR Guinevere, please! GUINEVERE! The BAILIFFS force ARTHUR from the room and shut the door. GWEN (clearing her throat) Let’s resume. We were in the middle of discussing the... (voice trailing off) We were discussing... the... GWEN gazes at the door out which ARTHUR was dragged, a contemplative frown forming on her face. We see the brief flash of a MEMORY: one of the first moments ARTHUR said her full name, "Guinevere," in EP10 of Season 1. He's always spoken it with such love... GWEN (whispering) Arthur... MAN What was that, Your Honor? Page 41 of 51

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GWEN (dawning with memory) Arthur... She remembers. GWEN bolts upright and bangs the gavel. GWEN The court is adjourned! She races away from the Bench and takes off down the aisle after ARTHUR, leaving the PEOPLE of the court baffled. CUT TO: INT. COURTHOUSE (HALLWAY) – CONTINUOUS. GWEN tears off her white wig as she races down the hall at full speed, her black judge’s gown flowing. ARTHUR can still be heard shouting her name. ARTHUR (O.S.) Guinevere — no, let me go! Guinevere! GWEN follows his voice, darting around the corner to see the BAILIFFS dragging him down the hall. GWEN

Arthur!

ARTHUR (head jerks around; sees her) Guinevere! GWEN

Arthur!

ARTHUR escapes the BAILIFFS’ clutches. The King and Queen sprint to each other. Meeting at the middle of the hall, they throw their arms around each in a passionate embrace. After a few beats of this, he pulls back to look into her eyes. ARTHUR I love you, Guinevere. GWEN

And I you.

They kiss passionately. Then ARTHUR lifts her off her feet and spins her around, rejoicing in the moment. CUT TO:

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INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM) – DAY 1. [15] A cup of tea is clasped between MORGANA’s hands as she sits on MERLIN’s sofa looking distressed and uncomfortable. GALAHAD plays quietly with his toy knights on the floor, making the usual little clashing noises as he pretends the toys are engaged in mortal combat. MERLIN enters the living room. MERLIN I’ve got your dress soaking. I wouldn’t worry about the coffee. I’m pretty good at getting stains out. MORGANA nods. She feels horrible about the scene she made earlier on the street. MERLIN senses her discomfort. Beat. He joins GALAHAD on the floor. MERLIN What are you up to over here? GALAHAD Just playing. MERLIN You’ve got all your knights set up here. Yup.

GALAHAD

MORGANA observes as MERLIN picks up one of the toy knights. MERLIN Who’s this? GALAHAD That’s Sir Lancelot. MERLIN Ah, the bravest and noblest of them all. GALAHAD Mmm, debatable. MERLIN Well, who do you think is the bravest and noblest, then?

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GALAHAD raises a toy knight clad in white armor, bearing a white shield with a red cross on it. GALAHAD (noble voice) Sir Galahad. MERLIN Oh, of course. MERLIN glances at MORGANA, who gives a mild smile of gratitude. MERLIN Are you hungry yet? GALAHAD (before Morgana can answer) Starving. MERLIN Good. You can stay for dinner. MERLIN gets to his feet and heads into the kitchen. MORGANA watches him go, surprised at how considerate he’s being after being such an ass the night before. EXT. LAKE OF AVALON – DAY 2.

FLASHBACK.

[16] MERLIN stands in the water between two burial boats. One boat holds GWEN's body, while the other bears PERCIVAL's body, both more peaceful in death than they were in life. MERLIN’s eyes flash gold and his magic makes the boats drift forward into the sparkling water. He lets his eyes fall shut, as though by closing them, he can block out all the devastation. Merlin.

FREYA (O.C.)

Wait. Is that who he thinks it is? He opens his eyes. Before him, standing atop the water, is FREYA, the endearing Druid girl who captured his heart when he was young. Breathtaking gown. Celestially beautiful. Her eyes glitter with pity. FREYA (soft) You’ve been so strong, Merlin.

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MERLIN is too stunned from all that has happened to speak. FREYA (approaching) You have endured far more than any man should have to undergo. Which is why I have been sent now to offer you a choice. Choice?

MERLIN

FREYA As is foretold, the Once and Future King will rise again, but the moment of his return is not known, even to those who reside in Avalon. However, we do know that it will take time. MERLIN How much time? FREYA A long time. Centuries, perhaps. MERLIN (soft horror) Centuries? (getting an idea) Can I see him? Can I see Arthur? FREYA Not until his return. Right now, you have a decision to make. Should you choose to, you can sleep in Avalon until the King’s time has come, and wake when he wakes. The centuries would be no more to you than a passing dream. MERLIN ...And the alternative? FREYA You wait here, for however long it takes. MERLIN How can that be? You said it could take centuries.

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FREYA You have been blessed with immortality, Merlin. You may choose to spend it either waiting for your King in this world, or sleeping in the next. Choose carefully, for once your decision has been made, you will not be able to change it. MERLIN, who is still in shock, weighs what has been laid before him, knowing that this moment will determine all that is to come. There are a few beats before he finally speaks up. MERLIN But there’s no telling how much the world may have changed by the time Arthur returns. Centuries will no doubt take their toll. We would awaken to a world of which we knew nothing. FREYA This is true. MERLIN Arthur will need someone to guide him, to prepare for his coming. FREYA It sounds as though you have already made your decision. MERLIN I have. (beat) I will wait for Arthur... here. In this world. Come what may. FREYA (sad smile) I thought you would say that. So be it. I shall not see you again until the end of time.

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Leaning forward, FREYA kisses MERLIN, but he is too overwhelmed coming to grips with everything she’s told him to kiss back. When MERLIN opens his eyes, FREYA is gone. Now MERLIN is alone, completely, and because of his choice, he will remain that way for a long, long time. INT. MERLIN’S FLAT (LIVING ROOM / KITCHEN) – NIGHT 2. [17] MERLIN clears the dishes away from the table, where MORGANA and GALAHAD still sit, and carries them into the kitchen. As GALAHAD returns to his toys, the PHONE rings. MERLIN Honestly, this is getting ridiculous... (answers phone; angry elderly female voice) No, you cannot have my castle! And for what it’s worth, my health is very, very decent! MAN (stern) Miss Darlene Plunkett, I must insist that you reconsider. I need that castle. MERLIN (elderly female voice) All right, all right, I will reconsider. (feigning thoughtful noises) Mmm... No! Good day, sir! Do not call again! MERLIN hangs up. MORGANA enters the kitchen. MORGANA Who was that? MERLIN Ah. It was a... wrong number. MORGANA Do you always use that voice when answering your phone? MERLIN Depends on who’s calling.

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MERLIN casts another anxious glance up at the clock. He starts to prepare the dishes for washing. MORGANA I’m... sorry about... earlier. MERLIN It’s fine. Of all people, I can understand having an off day. MORGANA It feels like every day is an off day for me lately. Beat. MERLIN nods toward one of the plates. MERLIN Pass me that plate? MORGANA picks up the dish and hands it to MERLIN. The plate slips from MERLIN’s wet hand and drops toward the floor. Suddenly the plate FREEZES mid-fall. MERLIN looks up. MORGANA’s eyes have turned gold. Her magic is suspending the plate in midair. MORGANA gasps as she realizes what is happening. Somehow she releases the plate from her magical hold. It shatters on the floor. MERLIN stares at her, terrified that she might remember who she is — who he is. MORGANA I’m sorry. I have no idea how that happened... I should go. She leaves the kitchen in a rush. MERLIN looks from the broken plate to MORGANA, who ushers GALAHAD to gather up his toys. MORGANA It’s time to go, Gally. Get your things. MERLIN follows her into the living room. Morgana...

MERLIN

MORGANA Thank you for dinner. She and GALAHAD start for the door. Morgana...

MERLIN Page 48 of 51

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Just now, there is a KNOCK. MORGANA glances at MERLIN. No, he wasn’t expecting anyone... She opens the door. ARTHUR and GWEN stand outside in the hall. Upon seeing MORGANA, GWEN’s eyes fly open wide.

You!

GWEN (horrified)

MORGANA is startled. How does she respond to that? ARTHUR Guinevere, wait — I can explain. MERLIN's eyes drift past MORGANA to GWEN. Can it be? His friend from so many years ago... MORGANA (anxious to leave) I can see we’re intruding. Come, Gally. MORGANA and GALAHAD exit, and ARTHUR and GWEN hurry inside and shut the door. GWEN Arthur, why was Morgana here? ARTHUR Guinevere, calm down. She doesn’t remember who she is. GWEN Yes, I can see that. What is she doing here? MERLIN (stunned) Gwen... GWEN’s gaze passes to MERLIN. GWEN (emotional) Merlin...? They stare at each other for a beat. Then GWEN runs to and flings her arms around MERLIN in a deep, fervent embrace. GWEN Merlin. It’s been so long. I can’t believe you’re here. Page 49 of 51

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MERLIN Gwen... I thought I'd never see you again... GWEN (pulls back) Arthur's told me about how you waited for him. I can hardly wrap my mind around it -- oh, Merlin, how you must have suffered. He can't deny it. But looking at her, he breaks into an emotional grin. MERLIN I can't believe you're here! How did Arthur find you? ARTHUR Elyan led the way. He’s back at Gwen’s house now. He still doesn’t remember. MERLIN (turning on ARTHUR, remembering his rage) What were you thinking just taking off like that? Mordred is watching! ARTHUR I know -- I lied -- I am a complete ass. You should hate me. By that infuriating smirk on ARTHUR's face, it's clear he knows that would be impossible for MERLIN at this point. MERLIN (he’s lost) Damn you. He pulls ARTHUR in for an angry hug. MERLIN It's a miracle they didn't kill you! They almost took Morgana! ARTHUR (pulling back, alarmed) What? Morgana? Is she all right?

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Another KNOCK. They ALL stare at the door. MERLIN (low) Back up. It could be Mordred. ARTHUR and GWEN back away. MERLIN leans up against the wall beside the door. MERLIN Who’s there? MAN (O.S.) I’ve come to speak with Miss Darlene Plunkett, who I am told resides here. I have been polite, but no more. I need that castle, so now we must speak face to face. ARTHUR (confused) Darlene Plunkett? MERLIN (muttering) What the — how did he ever learn where I live? MERLIN swings the door open, prepared to chew the man out, but stops short, realizing that it is none other than... LEON?! Merlin?

LEON

MERLIN can’t form a response. What? HOW? LEON looks past him, his eyes, wide with amazement, singling out ARTHUR, and then GWEN... GWEN, who is holding hands with ARTHUR. Her other husband. END OF EPISODE.

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