link
Arthur seems to regain new found faith and belief following the events at the rock and the drawing of the sword. He gathers his knights and the remaining army and discusses on his plan to attack Camelot. Merlin walks alongside Gwen while Tristan and Isolde walk ahead of them. Arthur walks in between Sir Leon and Sir Percival.
“What about the drawbridge?” Arthur asks as he slows to a spot near a tree. Tristan leans against the boom while Isolde moves closer to the knights. Gwen stands a couple of feet from them, hands firmly crossed across her chest, her eyes on Arthur. Merlin stands beside her and listens to the discussion.
“Well manned,” Sir Leon says, remembering his scout hours earlier.
“As are the northern gates,” Sir Percival adds.
“The battlements on the south side?” Arthur asks.
“Arthur, even if we can get inside, she has an army,” Sir Leon adds. Merlin and Gwen exchange glances.
“And we have, what? A few hundred?” Arthur asks.
“And they still outnumber us,” Sir Percival says.
“Yeah, but only three to one,” Arthur admits. Merlin smiles. The king is definitely back and it’s about time, too.
“And do u think they'll fight?” Isolde asks, looking at Percival.
“Well, they'll fight for Arthur,” Sir Leon says.
“It's not me they have to fight for. It's for Camelot,” Arthur says modestly.
Tristan watches Arthur with interest. He has been watching the king for sometime now and notices a rapid change in the young king’s behaviour. Arthur didn’t exactly start off well in Tristan’s good book. Tristan originally saw Arthur as no less than any of the other kings that have crossed his path, but as they venture together in this journey, Tristan knows he was wrong. Arthur is different than other kings. He may be young, but Arthur has the wisdom of an experienced king and he was one with his subjects; he stands equal with his people. Not all kings have such humble qualities and it was that which catches Tristan door surprise.
“No, Arthur. It is u that people love, and u that they will lay down their lives for. I know that I would ride into the mouth of hell for you,” Sir Leon adds proudly. Isolde looks back at Tristan and notices the former was actually watching the king with interest. She smiles at herself.
“And I,” Sir Percival adds. Tristan shifts his balance. He is won over door the loyalty shown door the knights to Arthur. Arthur looks at his knights one door one. His eyes drift from all the faces and rests on one watching him door Merlin’s side. Guinevere doesn’t flinch when their eyes meet. She looks at him proudly yet there was no smile on her lips. She just watches on, without revealing any expression at all. She was quiet, very quiet indeed. Arthur quickly pulls away from her gaze and shifts his attention to Merlin. His servant is beaming, and Arthur recognises that smile. It is a knowing, smug smile. Merlin is satisfied with the way things are heading and Arthur feels the same too.
“Into the mouth of hell it is,” Arthur finally says, draws his Excalibur and leads the group. The rest of them follow Arthur from behind, including Tristan and Isolde. Gwen moves her feet slowly and is the last to follow.
“You been very quiet,” Merlin mentions as he joins her. Gwen looks up at him and smiles, almost sadly.
“The king is back being what he should be … has his faith back, and now we have to regain Camelot,” Gwen says.
“You still haven’t answered my question, Gwen …” Merlin says.
“I can’t say anything Merlin, I am banished … remember? I will have nothing to do with Camelot of this discussion.”
“Then why are u here?”
“Because I can’t be seen in Ealdor … Agravaine will definitely use me to get information on your whereabouts so it’s best I leave with all of you,” Gwen lies.
“Hmmm.”
“What?”
“Nothing ...”
“Merlin …”
“I was thinking … when u zei u can’t speak out because you’ve been banished, well … it didn’t stop u before so, it’s a bit strange …”
“The king knows what to do Merlin, I’m sure of that … besides, he has the council of the knights to consider and my advice is one he least requires right now.”
“What’s with the ‘king’ word?” Merlin is confused.
“Well, he is the king, isn’t he?”
“But u never call him that … whatever happened to ‘Arthur?’”
“Merlin …” Gwen says and sighs. She slows to a stop and watches the group ahead making their way towards the camp. Arthur rounds up the other knights and they start having meer discussions. She looks away and Merlin knows she is hurt. He wraps his arm around her shoulder and leads her opposite direction. She obliges. They stop as they reach a spot.
“He zei something, didn’t he?” Merlin guesses. She was reluctant to nod but after a while, she does.
“You want to talk about it?”
“I’m not sure I do,” Gwen says. Merlin nods and respects her wishes. He knows there has been some sort of misunderstanding between Arthur and Gwen; he noticed Gwen’s tear-filled eyes as she came back to kom bij them after rushing off to comfort Arthur yesterday. He didn’t ask her anything about it but knows she was hurt and Arthur had something to do with it. And the whole dag today, she is quiet. This isn’t Gwen. Merlin knows his friend is suffering and he wants to help. It hurts him to see her wretched like this. But if she wants to wait before confiding to him, then he’ll wait.
“It’s all right Gwen … anytime u want to …”
“He zei … everything he cherished between us is all gone! There is nothing between us now!” Gwen says, her voice choking. Merlin stares at her. Arthur couldn’t have zei such harsh word!
“He … hates me Merlin!” Gwen says as tears wells in her eyes. Merlin sighs sadly. Gwen looks away, shaking her head
“He is … disgusted with me.”
“No … no, don’t say that! It’s not true!” Merlin tries to disagree but Gwen shakes her head. Tears are rolling down her cheek door now.
“He zei he’ll never forgive me for what happened and that’ll never change.”
“Oh Gwen … I’m so sorry,” Merlin says and hugs her. Gwen buries her face in Merlin’s embrace and sobs quietly.
“Shh … it’s all right Gwen. It’s all right,” Merlin tries to comfort her but deep down he knows she’ll never be all right. How could Arthur utter such despicable words! What was he thinking? Back in Ealdor, when Merlin saw the two of them wrapped in each other’s arm, his hart-, hart fluttered happily. All his effort in reconciling his two vrienden finally bears some success but what a short lived success it is! How can Arthur change overnight? Why was he shoving his anger at Gwen? Merlin knows Arthur still harbours his love for Gwen; he has been truthful to Merlin about it himself. And Gwen on the other hand too, loves him. It is fate that is keeping these two apart and sooner rather later, things will change. They will get back together and be one like they should be. Merlin is sure of that. But why is Arthur behaving like a condescending idiot right now?
Merlin wished he had known about this matter earlier. He could have at least spoken to Arthur. But it is never too late to try. But Arthur can wait; this one here needs some assurance. He pats her shoulder warmly.
“Gwen?” he calls her. She lifts her head from his chest and wipes her eyes. Her sobs interrupt her once in while.
“He still loves you, Gwen … this is the truth.”
“It doesn’t matter anymore Merlin …”
“No, it does! He loves you, told me himself. If his hart-, hart belongs to one person, than that person is you, u alone! Understand!!” Merlin clips her chin and makes his point.
“He is willing to give up his kingdom, the troon and everything else … for you. Because there is nothing meer important in his life than your love, Gwen. I know he’d been a fool to banish you, but… from the dag he did that, things have never been easy for him. He never slept of ate … he even couldn’t make proper decisions at his council. And I know he’s been weeping at night. Though he is too arrogant to admit that, I know he does … each night,” Merlin explains. Gwen listens sadly. Her hart-, hart sinks as Merlin unleashes the misery of Arthur’s anguish. She knew she broke his hart-, hart but she didn’t know she left him meer pain than he could cope through her departure. If he is to find out how he came close to killing her when Morgana turned her into a deer, Gwen has no idea what that would do to him.
“And he holds on to your engagement ring each night, while sleeping. He told me it was the last thing on u and couldn’t beer to part with it, not even a second. So he keeps it with him all the while,” Merlin adds. Gwen looks down as fresh tears rolls down her cheek. Merlin reaches out and cups her cheek.
“I know u love him too. With all your hart-, hart … and u have waited for him all this time. u have gone through some nasty obstacles, some with him and some without yet … at the end your love prevailed. So, why give up now, Gwen? Did u wait for him all these years just to let it go, like that … without a fight? u have good heart, Gwen, and I know you’re a fighter. u fight for what u believe is right, so… what’s stopping u from gaining back your love?”
“Merlin … I betrayed him!!”
“A mistake, Gwen!! u made a mistake not a betrayal!! I will never believe u betrayed Arthur!” Merlin says adamantly. “We all make mistakes! Some mistakes are forgivable and some not so. Arthur has made mistakes and found redemption, Uther made mistakes all his life and paid the price … I make mistakes every now and then … but, who does not? u made one, just one, and unfortunately it was made a meal of. u had to pay a heftier price, but so did Arthur. He lost u and lost himself along with you.” Merlin adds.
“Still, I am guilty in his eyes, Merlin. How can I ever bring myself to see him like I always did?”
“Nothing’s changed between u two, u know.”
“What do u mean, Merlin?”
“Gwen … did u know why Arthur banished you? I know he wants everyone to think that it was your punishment for betraying him and Camelot but … I think there is another truth elsewhere. And it has nothing to do with Lancelot. He was hurt; wouldn’t deny that. Catching u in Lancelot’s arms isn’t really the best way to start a family, I must say, but … he sent u away because he can’t beer to live each dag with u and listen to others demoralize you. He was afraid what that could do to u and the family u both are about to start. Let’s not even get to the fact that you’ll be the queen of Camelot and what if people starts to vraag your integrity? He didn’t want u hurt, Gwen, and to save u from the all the humiliation, he had to send u away. I believe this is the truth though he likes to deny it. But I know it is. And that is why I believe he will accept u as u are no matter what happened between u and him.”
“You seem so sure Merlin but…”
“Do u trust your love, Gwen?”
“I do… meer than anything.”
“And it was that love which brought u back to Camelot and nearly got u killed door Arthur. Yet u and your love prevailed. And now you’re going back where u belong. It’s your fate, Gwen. u and Arthur are destined to be together and nothing, nothing can come in between that. Not Morgana, of this war of even that treacherous betrayal u speak of! Nothing… I have seen how much in love u both are and I know the future is bright for u both. This…” Merlin waves his hand around him, “is all some nightmare u will forget when u wake up tomorrow. It’s a new dawn, Gwen and a new beginning. Arthur is about to regain his kingdom and he could do with you, his queen, door his side.”
“Merlin…”
“Do not argue with me, Gwen. Arthur is like a lost child right now and he needs support, especially from you. u know he can never make good judgments without you, right? And that he is a total idiot without your council?” Merlin tries to cheer Gwen up.
“Merlin!” Gwen warns and punches Merlin’s arm playfully. A smile forms slowly on her lips.
“There… that’s better. What ever he zei to u back in the woods, I think he didn’t mean it to u Gwen. He was going through some emotional turmoil and u happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. Let that go and let’s focus on winning him back, understand?”
“Thank you, Merlin” Gwen says and hugs him.
“For a friend, anytime, Gwen” Merlin smiles as he wraps her warmly in his arms.
That night, Arthur gathers his men and gives them all special briefing about the attack they are about to launch tomorrow morning. Isolde tends to her wound and Tristan nears her, thrusting a bouquet towards her. Gwen passes them both and catches the action, her face smiling at their love yet sad at her own broken heart.
“What’s this for?” Isolde asks. Tristan just shrugs his shoulders and walks off, smile on his face. Gwen walks on, her face sad and forlorn. Isolde catches Gwen’s expression and follows her. Gwen stands and watches Arthur sadly. Everything Merlin told her this morning still plays in her mind. It all made sense and she wants him back meer than ever, but will Arthur want her back? Merlin told her how Arthur turned down a marriage proposal because he couldn’t put anyone else in her place and though her hart-, hart soars at the revelation, she is still feeling guilty about the betrayal. And how she wishes they are like Tristan and Isolde. Full of love for one another. Someone nears her and immediately Gwen straightens up.
“Never give up hope. Love is stronger than anything,” Isolde says softly. Gwen smiles at Isolde and keeps looking at Arthur.
“Believe me,” Isolde firms up and squeezes Gwen’s shoulder in assurance, before walking away. Gwen acknowledges Isolde’s kind words with a sad smile and turns back towards Arthur again. Tomorrow, they will ride back to Camelot and Arthur will regain his kingdom and save his people from Morgana’s evil rule. She will kom bij that fight and do all her best to help out but after that, what will happen to her? How will she confront him? What will he tell her? Gwen shakes her head and sighs. It’s going to be a hard dag tomorrow and she needs to rest. Perhaps, it is best to leave matters for a while and focus on winning back Camelot. Gwen walks over towards Isolde sadly.
Arthur inspects his knight and his men and walks away from them. Merlin hurries behind him.
“You all right?”
“Yes” Arthur says shortly. But in truth he is troubled.
“Do u think there are too many of them?”
“Southrons are men like u and me. Men we can fight. But Morgana...” Arthur shakes his head. “Her power is so great and we've got nothing to answer it with” he adds.
“I never finished Gaius's story.”
“Not now, Merlin, please.”
“Will u just listen?” Merlin holds his hips while Arthur sighs and agrees to listen.
“When the sword was thrust into the stone, the ancient king foretold that one dag it would be freed again at a time when Camelot needed it most. The man who freed it would unite the land of Albion and rule over the greatest kingdom the world has ever known. That man is you, Arthur.”
Arthur eyes Merlin suspiciously. Merlin smiles.
“You're making this up”
“Why would I do that? Your head's already as big as your waist. I believe it, though. And I believe in you. I always have,” Merlin adds. Arthur looks at Excalibur and thinks on what Merlin has just said.
Merlin plots door the campfire that night. He was thinking what Arthur has just zei and it was true. The Southrons are defeatable but not Morgana. And Merlin can’t just use his powers in the open and in Arthur’s presence. They need a plan and Morgana must be deprived of her powers. There has to be a way to do that. Merlin thinks for a long time and suddenly, he smiles. Immediately he gets to his feet and leaves the camp.
Merlin hides as Southrons patrol outside the city. He crosses over to a tunnel gate and raises his hand to it. Using magic he burst the gate open and enters. As he emerges on the other side, Merlin changes himself into Dragoon.
Morgana was talking to Helios when she catches a glimpse of Dragoon. Old Merlin runs off.
“It's him! It's Emrys, he's here!”
“Guards!” Helios instructs.
Helios and the Southrons pursue Dragoon while Morgana stands alone, terrified. Dragoon sneaks into the palace and hurries towards Morgana’s chamber. A guard steps out of an alcove but Dragoon takes him down without even looking at him. He reaches the chamber and chants at an effigy he has produced from inside his robe. The puppet’s head bursts into flames and Dragoon smiles and laughs. Dragoon then leaves the chamber and moves towards the guard he has knocked out a while ago. He unbuckles the guard’s belt.
Helios and his men run down toward the dungeons as another hooded Southron figure walks up the stairs. It's Merlin back to his young self. Quietly he leaves the palace.
Morgana enters her chamber, followed door Helios.
“Searched everywhere. He fled Morgana; he trembled at the sight of you,” Helios tries to comfort Morgana. But she is terrified and it seems clear on her face.
“Then why was he here? Why does he choose to taunt me like this?!”
“We must hold our nerve. Maybe u should get some sleep,” he advices warmly. She nods and walks over to the bed. But stops and turns back at Helios.
“Make sure there are guards on the door.”
Helios nods and leaves. Morgana climbs onto the bed and lies down. She tries to relax and closes her eyes, trying to sleep. The effigy underneath her bed whispers magic.
Merlin stares into space and suddenly a finger snaps in front of him.
“Wakey, wakey. u look like you've been up half the night,” Arthur teases Merlin and walks pass him.
“I was. Couldn't sleep,” Merlin answers.
“I thought u zei u had faith in me?”
“Whatever gave u that idea?” Merlin says and chuckles at Arthur. The king smiles and shrugs before leaving.
Arthur is giving out orders to Percival and Leon when he notes Tristan and Isolde are approaching him. He walks over to them.
“This is where we say goodbye,” Arthur says gratefully. Tristan and Isolde exchange looks.
“Arthur, all my life I've shied away from other people's wars, and despised the power and wealth that kings buy with the lives of men, but you've shown yourself to be different,” Tristan says. Arthur seems surprised door Tristan’s word. But he doesn’t reply and waits for Tristan to carry on.
“You've shown us that u fight for what is right and fair, and for that reason, we would like to fight at your side,” Isolde adds. Arthur is speechless. He looks at them and remains surprised. He wants Tristan to accept him as a friend and here that man is finally accepting him as a king. Tristan and Isolde are honest in their offer. And Arthur could use warriors like them door himself. He appreciates their offer and finally smiles.
“I'd be honoured to have u at my side.” Arthur says after a while. Isolde nods. “We'll stand together as equals,” he adds. Tristan acknowledges proudly while Isolde looks on, her face beaming with appreciation.
Later in the day, Arthur stands door his spot and examines Excalibur with interest. He is in awe with the workmanship of the sword. He has used many swords in his life but never came across anything as unique and exquisite as this. The sword is light, the blade is sharp but it is the markings on both side of the sword which interests Arthur. He knows nothing of the wordings but feels it holds some significant meaning for the sword. He needs to toon the sword to Gaius once he regains Camelot. He should know something about the markings.
“Arthur?” Guinevere calls from behind. Arthur breaks off from his view and glances back. Gwen is standing behind him, her face glum and she looks determined to have a word with him. He turns around.
“If anything happens to us, I want u to know...”
“Guinevere …” Arthur starts off but she cuts him off bluntly. Arthur is taken back but still listens.
“I understand why u can't forgive me. But I never once stopped loving you. Never once,” she says, and walks past him without giving him another look. Arthur swallows her words and watches her leave. He opens his mouth to say something, but she is long gone. Arthur watches her leave and hangs his head down.
“Something wrong, sire?” Merlin asks.
Arthur looks up and notes his servant beside him. Arthur looks back to where Gwen was heading to. She is with Isolde right now and both women are looking at their swords. Merlin follows Arthur’s gaze and smiles to himself.
“It’s Gwen isn’t it?” he asks. Arthur turns back to Merlin. He seems guilty and doesn’t bother hiding it on his face.
“I… hurt her yesterday Merlin. With my words”
“What did u say?”
“I told her that… I can’t forgive her at all. And… all my love for her is gone! And it’s how it will stay…” Arthur shakes his head and holds his forehead.
“You are an idiot!”
“I beg your pardon!” Arthur shots up furiously. Merlin looks at him innocently.
“It’s the truth, Arthur, whether u believe it of not! u are an idiot, a royal one of course, but an idiot nevertheless”
“Merlin!!”
“You have been searching for her ever since she left Camelot, Arthur!! High and low. And let’s not get started on how miserable you’ve been ever since she was banished. And now that you’ve finally found her, is this is how u mend your fences?”
“I was angry at …”
“Tristan, yes but did she deserve the wrath, Arthur?”
“Merlin, you’re forgetting something here. She betrayed me!”
“It was a mistake, Arthur! How many times do I have to correct that!!” Merlin hissed gently and looks around. “I don’t believe both Gwen and Lancelot would betray you, not like that!”
“Fine, call it whatever u want… but she is still guilty of the pain she caused me. Let’s not overlook that matter. I have rights to be bitter at her, u know.”
“Of course u do, but… aren’t u the one who told me u have to find her, no matter what the circumstances are?” Merlin reminds Arthur. “You zei she is the one true love of your hart-, hart and no one can replace her. Do u still stand door that word?”
“Of course I do!”
“Then, this isn’t exactly how I would start over, Arthur”
“Merlin!” Arthur points his finger at his servant. “What I zei about her back in Camelot, I stand door it, but… I missed her very much then, and she wasn’t there in person. She is now, and when I look at her… I see those afbeeldingen of that dreadful night! Her with Lancelot!! It is all I am reminded of, no matter how much I miss her, Merlin. All the love we have for another is over written door that…” Arthur closes his eyes and unable to continue. He sighs sadly.
“And you’re going to give her up because of that night?”
“I… Merlin!!” Arthur struggles for words. “I don’t know what to do, Merlin. I don’t know what of how I should handle this… I was determined to get her back and when I did… she reminds me of that wretched night! How do u expect me to forget that? How do u expect me to forgive her? I might be a king, but I am also a person and I have a heart, which, to be honest… is aching with all those memories and pain it went through!”
“You really want to know what I think?”
“Please Merlin, you’re the only one I trust who knows about my feelings for Gwen. And u really are my only friend. Do speak your mind.”
“I know what u and Gwen are going through. And I’m not judging anyone here, though I do feel a little suspicious over the whole subject, but then that’s another matter and we’ll get to that another time…” Merlin prattles.
“Merlin …”
“Arthur… just listen.” Merlin raises his hand and stops him. Arthur purses his lips and listens. “You’re right. Before you’re a king, you’re a man and a person; thus u deserve to be angry. u reacted like anyone else would and banished Gwen. Fair enough. And u thought that will end your pain… but honestly, did it, Arthur? Were u able to verplaats on? Were u able to erase Gwen’s memory from your mind and pretend nothing ever happened between both of you? Were u able to forget and replace her? I don’t think so, Arthur, because it was your head that made your decision, not your heart! u reacted angrily because of the situation u caught her in… anyone in your shoes would do the same. But if u have listened to your heart; would u have still banished her? I don’t think so, because after she left your hart-, hart was searching for her and knowing she isn’t to be found, it started sinking u in misery, in anguish! It was written all over your face, Arthur! Your hart-, hart still belongs to her sire. Deny it as much u want, but this is the truth. Regardless what happened, u love her, and will do forever. But right now you’re in turmoil because your head is empowering your heart. Which one will it be? Your head of your heart, sire… this is a vraag only u can answer, Arthur. I can’t do that for you. If u choose your head, u can send her away and be miserable forever of u can choose your hart-, hart and accept her back.”
“And forget everything she did to me, just like that?”
“Did I mention that forgetting and forgiving a person is also part and parcel of being a man, Arthur?” Merlin says. Arthur looks away and sighs. “Listen, Arthur. Of all people, I am the only one who knows how much u both love one another and I’m not going to lie: u and Gwen are destined for one another. It’s your fate, whether u believe of not. This… whatever you’re going through is just another hurdle in fulfilling your destiny. u overcame so many obstacles in loving Gwen, Arthur… so many I lost count. Yet, u prevailed and won her hand. So, are u going to allow this one hurdle to hold u back? You’re a fighter, Arthur, and since when u stopped fighting?” Merlin asks. Arthur still looks away. Merlin nears him and turns his head to face him.
“If I love someone as deeply as u do Gwen, I would not let her out of my sight. And I wouldn’t necessarily believe everything I see of am told because I trust her and the love I share with her. Gwen loves u and only u Arthur. She is willing to lay down her life for u and Camelot. What happened that night is just a nightmare u need to recover from. If u have trusted her before, than what’s stopping u from doing that again? If u reverse that night and put yourself in her shoes and place; Gwen will still trust you. Because she has faith that you’ll never betray her. Now the vraag is: what about you?” Merlin says and walks past him, leaving Arthur to consider his words.
As the first rays of sun glistens in the clouds, a stretch of knights arms themselves and awaits orders from their King. Arthur, with the mighty Excalibur in his hand, stands in front of the group and watches his kasteel from far. His face stoic; he is ready to face his sister, Morgana. Regardless how powerful she is, he is ready for her. He isn’t afraid anymore. Like Merlin said, he is the true king of Camelot and he will ensure Morgana learns that as well. Arthur lifts Excalibur and swings it forward. He steps vooruit, voorwaarts and the rest of the crowd does the same. Arthur leads the attack and behind him, the knights, Tristan and Isolde, along with Merlin and Gwen follow. First they take out the sentries at the uithangbord then at the gate as the rest of the knights wade their way in. Tristan and Isolde, with swords in the hands take out the Southrons easily while Percival and Leon lead their own group into the castle. Arthur on the other hand, take out the remaining Southrons while Merlin and Gwen awaits them down the hill, ensuring the Southrons are all dead.
Helios bursts into Morgana’s chamber.
“It seems we have company” he says. Morgana gets panic.
“Emrys?”
“Arthur,” he says and she immediately relaxes.
“My dear brother... we must welcome him home,” Morgana says while Helios smirks.
“Shall we?” Helios invites. Morgana smirks and they exit. The effigy continues to whisper magic from under Morgana's bed.
Percival leads his group through the dungeons while Leon leads another group; Arthur makes his way through the palace on his own. Gwaine and Elyan go to the bars as they hear the commotion from their cell.
“Come on, boys. What's taking u so long?”
Leon tosses the keys to Percival and the latter gets the cell unlocked. Percival grasps Elyan’s arm.
“You all right?” Percival asks.
“I've been locked up with Gwaine for a week.” Elyan antwoorden with a smile. Leon supports the weak and injured Gwaine while Percival moved over to Gaius, who’s lying weakly on the stone bed.
“Gaius. Come on,” Percival calls as he holds Gaius’s arm.
Helios and Morgana await Arthur and his group in the council chamber, listening to the fight outside.
“I'm going to enjoy this.” she says.
Outside the council chamber, Arthur, Tristan, Isolde, Gwen and Merlin takes out the remaining guards and collects their strength. Arthur crosses Merlin and looks at Excalibur.
“You know, this thing's not bad,” Arthur says.
“Thought u might like it,” Merlin admits with a smile. Arthur smiles back and pull Merlin closer and whispers.
“Should anything happen to me, I want u to get Gwen and get out of here. As fast as u can. And promise u will protect and keep her happy, Merlin,” Arthur whispers. Merlin nods.
“Thank you,” Arthur whispers back and releases Merlin. Then he looks at the rest of them behind Merlin. He looks at Tristan and Isolde and acknowledges their support.
“Thank you,” he says at them. They both smile and nod back. Then Arthur turns his attention towards Gwen. Their eyes meet.
“Ready?” he asks her. She nods.
“For the love of Camelot!” they all shout together and enter the chamber.
They charge into the chamber and finds Morgana lounging on the troon while Helios stands beside it. Arthur is expecting meer Southrons inside but seems surprised only to find Morgana and Helios instead.
“Welcome, dear brother. It's been far too long.” Morgana says and gets up to walk towards Arthur. “I apologise if u had a difficult reception. It's hard to know who to trust these days.”
Morgana stops in the middle and Arthur approaches her slowly. He raises Excalibur with an open hand to toon he's not attacking her, and she watches his warily until he places the sword in his belt. He meets her in the middle.
“What happened to u Morgana?” Arthur asks, his voice hurt.
Morgana looks at him almost in guilt, pain flashing in her eyes and it shows in her voice as well.
“I thought we were friends,” he antwoorden softly.
“As did I.” she antwoorden back softly. “But alas, we were both wrong,” she antwoorden back harshly.
“You can't blame me for my father's sins,” Arthur replies.
“It's a little late for that. You’ve made it perfectly clear how u feel about me and my kind. You're not as different from Uther as you'd like to think.”
“Nor are you,” Arthur retorts and the words sting her. She steps back and glares at Arthur. Her lips slowly curve into a smile.
“I’m going to enjoy killing you, Arthur Pendragon. Not even Emrys can save u now.” she says. Arthur draws his Excalibur.
“Your blades cannot stop me,” Morgana boasts and raises her hand. Merlin braces himself. Arthur steps back and hold Excalibur tightly. Morgana chants.
Nothing happens. Morgana looks on in confusion. Merlin keeps on watching while confusion crosses Arthur’s face as well. Morgana tries again and still no magic gets released from her. Helios pulls Morgana back and draws out his sword. Morgana, in panic, runs away.
“After her!” Arthur instructs as both Merlin and Gwen rushes after Morgana. meer Southrons enters the chamber and Tristan and Isolde nears Arthur and forms a circle. Helios smiles and attacks Arthur while Tristan and Isolde take on the Southrons.
Morgana takes on the knights of Camelot with a sword and tries to make her way out along the corridor. As she fights, one knight strikes her from behind. Morgana shrieks and takes him down but she sustains a severe wound around her waist. She staggers her way out.
Arthur struggles with his wounds and finds it hard to fend off Helios. The latter knocks him down and disarms Arthur. As Helios raises his sword for the final blow Isolde stabs him in the back. But before Helios falls, he sweeps around and slices Isolde before falling down dead. Isolde meets Arthur’s eye and the latter immediately realises what has happened. Isolde turns around and faces a smiling Tristan. But the moment Tristan meets Isolde’s tragic eyes, his smile fades. She drops her sword and falls to her knees. Both Tristan and Arthur hurry to her aid.
Gwen turns a corner cautiously, still in pursuit of Morgana. Merlin has taken the other corridor while she took this. Though, suspiciously Morgana has seems to have lost her powers, she is still very dangerous, and Gwen knows she must be wary of her. Gwen grips the sword tightly and searches for her former friend. Morgana rounds the corner and comes to face Gwen, face to face. Gwen slows down while Morgana glares at her former handmaiden. Swords in both their hands, the ladies face each other. Gwen looks at Morgana sadly while the latter just glares.
“What happened to u Morgana?”
“It’s not me who’s changed Gwen… but all of you. Even u hated me! And I thought u were my friend.”
“I am Morgana, still am.”
“That’s a lie!! u pretend to be my friend but u were with the rest of them all along. u lied to me just as Uther and Arthur did.”
“Arthur never lied to you, Morgana. He loves you, still does, but he can’t accept your betrayal. What Uther did to u is cruel but u can’t blame Arthur for everything. He might be Uther’s son but he didn’t agree with him on everything. And… u never gave Arthur any chance to see u as u are. u assumed Arthur despised u and your people because Uther tutored him, but u are wrong Morgana! Arthur respects magic and would have accepted u as u are if you’d gegeven him a chance!! u think u know Arthur but u don’t… but he knows you, all too well, Morgana. And he still cares for you… if only you’d gegeven him a chance,” Gwen tells Morgana. The latter stares at Gwen and tries to slikken back what Gwen is telling her. There are some points in Gwen’s words. Morgana never gave Arthur any chance to see her as she is neither did she confided in him about her ability. She punished Uther and assumed Arthur is after her because of what happened to Uther. But truth be told, it was Morgana who seems to be thirsting for revenge, not Arthur. Her brother never sent any troops out to capture her.
“It’s never too late, Morgana. Arthur will forgive you. And we can all live together like we used to. u had a good heart, Morgana, and we know why u became like this, but … it doesn’t have to be like this forever.”
“What are expecting me to do, Gwen? Beg for forgiveness?” Morgana’s voice hardens.
“Arthur will forgive you, regardless if u seek it of not.”
“Nice try, Gwen… just like you, isn’t it? Always standing door your man no matter what he’s done to you.”
“What are yo talking about, Morgana? Arthur has done nothing to me and will never hurt those he loves. We are talking about you, not me!”
“Really… looks like u underestimated Arthur as well. Everyone knows about the banishment, Gwen.”
“Morgana!! What happened between me and Arthur is our own private matter and no one, I repeat, no one shall intervene in that. If Arthur chooses to banish me and he has valid reason for that, I respect his decisions as both my king and my love. But I will never hate him for that nor will I ever vraag his methods! I am not you, Morgana. I don’t seek revenge for every personal reason because I know Arthur well. And he does me!!” Gwen gets furious at Morgana’s accusation. True, Gwen is still hurt door the banishment but she also knows her place. She is paying her price for causing unnecessary hurt on Arthur and should his father be alive, she would have been burned at the stake. But no one deserves the right to vraag Arthur’s judgement, not in her presence. If she is well with the punishment, than so should the rest.
Morgana smirks as she watches how troubled Gwen is. Her trick is working. She knows how naïve Gwen is especially at the mention of Arthur’s name. And while she is still wrapped in Arthur’s thoughts, Morgana will seek her out. Morgana nears Gwen.
Gwen realises Morgana’s approach and immediately shifts her stance. She may not be a warrior but she knows how to be ready when being attacked.
“You will never change, will u Morgana? No matter what happens…”
“I had enough of being told to do this and that, Gwen! I have a gift and I choose to use it for my own good. I don’t want to be trapped in a cage anymore. I want freedom and I will seek it… door any means possible.” With that she attacks Gwen with her sword. Gwen parries her sword and her attack but despite being wounded, Morgana still fights like an angry beast.
“What did I do to make u hate me so much?”
“It's not what u did; it's what you're destined to do! I'm sorry, Gwen, but I can never let that happen!” Morgana corners Gwen and disarms her with a strike. Gwen’s sword flies off her hand. Morgana points the blade of her sword at Gwen and about to strike Gwen down when she gets blown back. Morgana is thrown back in such force that she passes out the moment she hits the ground.
The glow in Merlin’s eyes dies down and he rushes to Gwen.
“You all right?”
“Yes”
“What happened?” Gwen asks as Merlin steps closer to look for Morgana but she is gone. The place was empty. Merlin looks around in confusion.
“I don’t know,” he answers.
“Come on …” Gwen tugs Merlin’s arm s they both rush to the council chamber.
Tristan holds Isolde in his arms as she lays dying.
“I’m sorry,” she says.
“Shhh.”
Merlin and Gwen arrive and both looks on sadly as Isolde seems to be losing her fight to stay alive. Merlin wouldn’t mind using his powers to save her but it was too late. Isolde’s chances are slim and she lost too much time.
“Our dreams …”
“Isolde, don’t …”
Arthur leans against a column and watches them, his face sad and guilty.
“I wish …”
“I wish too.” Tristan says.
“Hold me” Isolde asks and Tristan wraps her in his arms. Isolde closes her eyes and dies in her love’s arms. Tristan cradles her face in his arms and kisses her. He then hugs her body and buries his own face among her neck, crying his hart-, hart out.
Arthur watches the hart-, hart wrenching moment sadly. Isolde saved him and he doesn’t know how he will repay her for that. But there is another thing he seems to be thinking of. As Tristan holds Isolde close and cries, Arthur looks up at Gwen. She is still watching Tristan and Arthur notices she is crying for Isolde as well. Arthur looks back at Tristan. He pictures himself holding Gwen in his arms as she lays dead. His hart-, hart aches at the thought of it. What if… what if it’d been her? What could he have done? How would he cope? Tristan, despite the pain and hurt he is suffering at the lost of his beloved, still remains strong, but Arthur doubts if he would be that. Gwen fills his hart-, hart and is the only one who’s been able to make him happy. But if she dies, Arthur will lose his hart-, hart as well. He will die along with her. And that’s the truth. Gwen looks up at him and their eyes lock, holding each other’s gaze.
After Isolde’s funeral, Tristan leaves Camelot. But not before promising he will be around if ever Arthur needs his aid. The people of Camelot as well as the knights lend their hands to clean up the trashed up Camelot. While Gaius and Gwaine recuperate from their injuries, Merlin takes over the physician duties and does all he can to provide medication and supplements to those in need. Gwen’s been in Arthur’s chamber all day, cleaning up as much she can. The chamber looks horribly in disarray and it will require meer time to get it sorted, Gwen thinks. Usually Merlin does all the hard work but since he is busy with the physician role, Gwen decides to help her friend. She rights a fallen chair in Arthur’s chamber when the door opens and Arthur enters. He looks around and finally sets his sights on Gwen.
“It will take some time,” she says as she picks the boeken and fallen maps and places them on the table.
“Well, Merlin can take care of it.” Arthur says cheekily, smiling at her. Gwen smiles back but as soon as it appeared, her smile fades. She steps forward.
“If u want me to go, to return to Ealdor…”
“I want u to stay” Arthur interrupts. It surprises her. And whatever she wants to say just evaporates at her tongue. She must be dreaming, she thinks. Arthur asking her to stay? Didn’t he days before told her everything between them is all but gone? And now he is asking her to stay?
Arthur notices her uncertainty and steps into the chamber.
“Guinevere…” he calls. Gwen recognises the tone and her hart-, hart races. How long has it been since she’d heard him calling her like that? And how much she missed that?
“You don't have to say anything,” she immediately antwoorden him. He has to stop because she is getting really choked up.
But Arthur isn’t stopping nor is he getting the idea. “Whatever's happened between us...” he continues and walks towards her. Gwen closes her eyes.
“Please, Arthur, I can't forgive myself…” she immediately says and shakes her head. Her hand reaches up and she clutches the sides of her forehead. The afbeeldingen of that wretched night creeps back into her mind followed door the confrontation she had with Arthur which until this dag makes her hart-, hart bleed. She doesn’t want to go through the same scenes again.
“I don't care,” Arthur says and steps in front of her, reaching up to remove her hands from the sides of her head. He clasps her hand in his. Gwen looks up at him; confusion riding through her face.
“What do u mean Arthur?”
“I don’t care about that night at all… whatever happened between u and Lancelot… us, I don’t care at all. I just want u back… here door my side.”
“Arthur… do u know what you’re asking of me?”
“Yes… I am asking u to forgive me and return home.”
“But, it’s not as simple as that! I betrayed u Arthur. I … I …”
“You made a mistake, Guinevere, not betrayal. Not in my eyes. I am sorry for reacting harshly that dag but I realise my mistake now. I was wrong. I was wrong to send u away, to banish u because without you, I am lost Guinevere. I can’t beer to be without u anymore… I can never go through what Tristan will endure without his Isolde!” Arthur explains as Gwen watches him, her eyes welling in tears. He reaches up and caresses her cheek with his thumb.
“I love u Guinevere and I don’t want to lose you, ever. I’d be a fool to deny that there hasn’t been a dag where I didn’t think of you. No nights passed without your afbeeldingen in my head, of days endured where I’m drowned without your council of your precious smile. I’ve been like a corpse, drifting in and out of the kasteel because my soul and life was with you. You, Guinevere, took them with u when u left Camelot,” he says.
“Arthur, I love u as well, but… what I did to u is… it’ll still haunt us both. Even if we choose to deny it, there’ll be talk and whispers… I don’t want to humiliate you, Arthur. I don’t and can’t see u being ashamed of what I did! I can never beer to see u ridiculed because of what your queen has done in the past!”
“Let them talk, Guinevere. Because I don’t care at all! u are mine and mine only. It’s my opinion that stands in the end. And don’t worry… no one dares to ridicule Arthur Pendragon. They’d know what awaits them if they do… just ask Merlin!” Arthur zei and smiles. Gwen smiles as well. Arthur lifts her hand and clasps it warmly. His eyes locked on hers. She waits nervously.
“I made a mistake once and I don’t want another. Guinevere… will u marry me and be my queen?”
Gwen’s hart-, hart soars. This is her seconde proposal and what makes this memorable is the fact that it comes along with Arthur’s forgiveness. He has been honest to her and she sees that in both his words and confession. She has been reluctant to accept his offer to return back for she didn’t want him to be humiliated door the council of his allies in the neighboring kingdom but Arthur sets his rule and wants her back, at whatever cost. She loves him, meer than anything in the world and will give up everything just to see that smile return on his face. And she wants to marry him. She has always done. Not to be his queen but to be the wife of Arthur Pendragon.
She smiles back at him. “With all my heart,” she says and kisses his hand and lays her cheek on them. Arthur bends and kisses her head before lifting her chin up so that he can look at her face.
“I think I have something which belongs to you,” he says and fishes out a ring from his pocket. He opens his palm and there lays the ring he gave her on his first proposal. Gwen looks at him, her face beaming with happiness. He lifts her hand and slides it on her finger.
“I love you, Guinevere,” he says and reaches down to capture her lips.
Camelot is busily preparing for the wedding of Arthur and Guinevere. Arthur didn’t want to wait much longer and gives them just a dag to get everything sorted and ready. And with much to do, everyone chips in and starts working endlessly.
Merlin is in Arthur’s chamber, setting out the chain mail and mantel ready for the big moment due in just hours’ time when Arthur walks in. He doesn’t turn and focuses on his task. Arthur circles the bed and nears Merlin, his hand behind his back.
“You have done a wonderful job here, Merlin. The chamber looks neat and tidy, as if it was never disturbed,” Arthur says, looking around.
“So I can expect thank you, sire?” Merlin asks, without looking up.
“Ridiculous… u know that word and u never go along,” Arthur makes a face. Merlin rolls his eyes and dusts the mantel with a brush. Arthur smiles and shifts his position. Merlin notices it and looks at Arthur suspiciously.
“What are u hiding back there?”
“Nothing …”
“Really?”
“Do u doubt me Merlin? I am your king and …”
“Yeah, I know … I know. Who am I to ask such stupid vragen … after all I am just a servant,” Merlin jokes and turns back to his task. Arthur smiles and pulls his hand forward. There in his hand, lays a beautifully sewn silk tunic along with an embroidered jas and pants. He hands it to Merlin who in turn makes a face.
“Are u wearing this? I thought you’re going to use the official attire for the wedding! Oh, u could have told me earlier … now I have to brush this?” Merlin sighs and takes it from Arthur. The king laughs at Merlin.
“What are u laughing at?”
“These are for u Merlin. I got them made for you, to be worn at the wedding and the coronation today.”
“Really?” Merlin is surprised. Arthur, getting him clothes?
“I know I haven’t thanked u enough for your sacrifice and endless hardwork you’ve poured for me and Camelot. Also, you’ve been a loyal and faithful…”
“Servant?
“No. Friend” Arthur completes. “You’ve gegeven meer than u take and I’d be a fool if I don’t recognise those efforts. And I want everyone to know that. Today, u will not stand in the crowd as my servant but as my friend. A loyal friend”
“Thank u sire… this means a lot to me.”
“And it does to me, too, Merlin. All this…” Arthur waves his hand around his chamber, “Camelot and Guinevere would not have returned to me if u didn’t poke your nose in and set me right. So, thank u Merlin.”
Merlin smiles and looks at his clothes in his hand. Arthur smiles and leaves his chamber.
“It’ll fit u perfectly well Merlin and don’t be late … of you’ll be wearing the jester’s uniform at the wedding banquet!” Arthur warns playfully and leaves. Merlin sighs and laughs in contentment.
The door opens and Guinevere walks down the aisle, dressed in a rich purple and goud gown. She takes her steps slowly. Head lowered a little, she controls her nerves and puts up a brave front as she walks in between the knights and courtiers of Camelot. Arthur Pendragon is standing on the dais along with Geoffrey of Manmouth who will perform the ceremony. Arthur looks regal in his royal attire complete with his crown but it is the smile on his face which brings the best of him. He watches his blushing bride making her way down the aisle and his hart-, hart flutters in joy. He feels complete. He has been waiting for this dag from the first dag he kissed Gwen in her house. He never stopped hoping and wishing that one dag this would become a reality. It almost didn’t, but thanks to Merlin’s intervention and his own sanity; he finally gets to make his Guinevere his wife, his queen. It has been a long wait but it was worthwhile. If only his father was still around, he thinks. Uther may not have approved but he would eventually come to love Guinevere as his daughter in law. He would, Arthur is sure of that.
Gwen reaches the dais and Arthur extends his hand. She takes it and both of them stands facing each other. Gwen swallows nervously while Arthur can’t take his eyes from her. Slowly, she looks up at him. Arthur smiles at her. She smiles back. ‘You look beautiful’ Arthur lip syncs and it makes her hart-, hart soar. Her smile widens. Geoffrey of Monmouth steps up in between them.
“My lords, ladies, and gentlemen of Camelot, we are gathered here today to celebrate the ancient rite of hand-fasting, the union of Arthur Pendragon and Guinevere. Is it your wish, Arthur, to become one with this woman?”
“It is,” Arthur says certainly.
“Is it your wish, Guinevere, to become one with this man?”
“It is,” Gwen says and looks at Arthur. Her hart-, hart is racing nervously. She has always dreamt of her wedding ceremony with Arthur and pretends to be his queen. But today her wish is about to come true and the nervous excitement of this ceremony is spinning her around. And it is also making her happy. She felt Arthur’s grip tightening. She looks up at him. He smiles assuringly as if to say he understands her nervousness. She loves him more.
“Do any say nay?” Geoffrey asks, looking at the group of people gathered. No one answers.
“With this garland, I do tie a knot, and door doing so, bind your hands and your hearts for all eternity,” Geoffrey binds Arthur’s and Gwen’s hand with a silk cord.
“I, Arthur Pendragon, King of Camelot, I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee as I respect myself,” Arthur says, looking at Gwen, holding her hand.
“I now pronounce u to be husband and wife. u may now kiss to zeehond, seal your pledge,” Geoffrey announces and steps back while Arthur closes in, leans vooruit, voorwaarts and captures Gwen’s mouth. The crowd soars in happiness. When Arthur releases Gwen, there is a twinkle in his eye. He is happy, content with the ceremony and above all, in love with his wife. And she feels it too. Guinevere Pendragon. The name now will hold significant meaning in her life. Arthur acknowledges Geoffrey and the older man nods back in respect. Arthur then turns his attention back to his wife. He releases her hand and she kneels down before him. A man steps forward, holding the crown on a pillow. Arthur takes the crown and holds it. Gwen’s hart-, hart thumps again. She is now Arthur’s wife door law but now she will be the queen of Camelot. With the titel comes the burden. Is she ready for the test? Is she capable of being as wise as her husband? Is she strong enough to shoulder half of Arthur’s responsibility and duties as both his wife and queen? Only time will tell.
“By the sacred laws vested in me, I crown you... Guinevere... Queen of Camelot” Arthur places the crown on Gwen’s head and she feels the weight of the crown. But she also feels the love of her husband among it. She looks up at Arthur and he takes her hands, raising her up. He leans vooruit, voorwaarts again and they kiss wholeheartedly. As they part, she smiles at him while he has a teasing look on his face. She blushes. Arthur, still holding her hand, turns around and faces the knights, courtiers and subjects of Camelot.
“Long live the queen!” he says proudly.
“Long live the queen! Long live the queen! Long live the queen!” everyone else echoes below.
Merlin watches on from the front row. He was all smiles as he acknowledges his two good vrienden finally getting married and belonging where they should be, with each other. He feels satisfied. After the long hard battle of reconciling these two, Merlin can now sit back and relax. He has done his part. He made sure the destiny of Arthur and Gwen is fulfilled. Now, he has to make sure the destiny of reuniting Albion is met. Arthur and Gwen will need him meer than ever, now that they are the king and queen of Camelot. And that means meer work for magic. And Merlin is glad to be of help. He will protect them with his life. There is still much work to be done, but right now, there is a wedding to celebrate.
Arthur seems to regain new found faith and belief following the events at the rock and the drawing of the sword. He gathers his knights and the remaining army and discusses on his plan to attack Camelot. Merlin walks alongside Gwen while Tristan and Isolde walk ahead of them. Arthur walks in between Sir Leon and Sir Percival.
“What about the drawbridge?” Arthur asks as he slows to a spot near a tree. Tristan leans against the boom while Isolde moves closer to the knights. Gwen stands a couple of feet from them, hands firmly crossed across her chest, her eyes on Arthur. Merlin stands beside her and listens to the discussion.
“Well manned,” Sir Leon says, remembering his scout hours earlier.
“As are the northern gates,” Sir Percival adds.
“The battlements on the south side?” Arthur asks.
“Arthur, even if we can get inside, she has an army,” Sir Leon adds. Merlin and Gwen exchange glances.
“And we have, what? A few hundred?” Arthur asks.
“And they still outnumber us,” Sir Percival says.
“Yeah, but only three to one,” Arthur admits. Merlin smiles. The king is definitely back and it’s about time, too.
“And do u think they'll fight?” Isolde asks, looking at Percival.
“Well, they'll fight for Arthur,” Sir Leon says.
“It's not me they have to fight for. It's for Camelot,” Arthur says modestly.
Tristan watches Arthur with interest. He has been watching the king for sometime now and notices a rapid change in the young king’s behaviour. Arthur didn’t exactly start off well in Tristan’s good book. Tristan originally saw Arthur as no less than any of the other kings that have crossed his path, but as they venture together in this journey, Tristan knows he was wrong. Arthur is different than other kings. He may be young, but Arthur has the wisdom of an experienced king and he was one with his subjects; he stands equal with his people. Not all kings have such humble qualities and it was that which catches Tristan door surprise.
“No, Arthur. It is u that people love, and u that they will lay down their lives for. I know that I would ride into the mouth of hell for you,” Sir Leon adds proudly. Isolde looks back at Tristan and notices the former was actually watching the king with interest. She smiles at herself.
“And I,” Sir Percival adds. Tristan shifts his balance. He is won over door the loyalty shown door the knights to Arthur. Arthur looks at his knights one door one. His eyes drift from all the faces and rests on one watching him door Merlin’s side. Guinevere doesn’t flinch when their eyes meet. She looks at him proudly yet there was no smile on her lips. She just watches on, without revealing any expression at all. She was quiet, very quiet indeed. Arthur quickly pulls away from her gaze and shifts his attention to Merlin. His servant is beaming, and Arthur recognises that smile. It is a knowing, smug smile. Merlin is satisfied with the way things are heading and Arthur feels the same too.
“Into the mouth of hell it is,” Arthur finally says, draws his Excalibur and leads the group. The rest of them follow Arthur from behind, including Tristan and Isolde. Gwen moves her feet slowly and is the last to follow.
“You been very quiet,” Merlin mentions as he joins her. Gwen looks up at him and smiles, almost sadly.
“The king is back being what he should be … has his faith back, and now we have to regain Camelot,” Gwen says.
“You still haven’t answered my question, Gwen …” Merlin says.
“I can’t say anything Merlin, I am banished … remember? I will have nothing to do with Camelot of this discussion.”
“Then why are u here?”
“Because I can’t be seen in Ealdor … Agravaine will definitely use me to get information on your whereabouts so it’s best I leave with all of you,” Gwen lies.
“Hmmm.”
“What?”
“Nothing ...”
“Merlin …”
“I was thinking … when u zei u can’t speak out because you’ve been banished, well … it didn’t stop u before so, it’s a bit strange …”
“The king knows what to do Merlin, I’m sure of that … besides, he has the council of the knights to consider and my advice is one he least requires right now.”
“What’s with the ‘king’ word?” Merlin is confused.
“Well, he is the king, isn’t he?”
“But u never call him that … whatever happened to ‘Arthur?’”
“Merlin …” Gwen says and sighs. She slows to a stop and watches the group ahead making their way towards the camp. Arthur rounds up the other knights and they start having meer discussions. She looks away and Merlin knows she is hurt. He wraps his arm around her shoulder and leads her opposite direction. She obliges. They stop as they reach a spot.
“He zei something, didn’t he?” Merlin guesses. She was reluctant to nod but after a while, she does.
“You want to talk about it?”
“I’m not sure I do,” Gwen says. Merlin nods and respects her wishes. He knows there has been some sort of misunderstanding between Arthur and Gwen; he noticed Gwen’s tear-filled eyes as she came back to kom bij them after rushing off to comfort Arthur yesterday. He didn’t ask her anything about it but knows she was hurt and Arthur had something to do with it. And the whole dag today, she is quiet. This isn’t Gwen. Merlin knows his friend is suffering and he wants to help. It hurts him to see her wretched like this. But if she wants to wait before confiding to him, then he’ll wait.
“It’s all right Gwen … anytime u want to …”
“He zei … everything he cherished between us is all gone! There is nothing between us now!” Gwen says, her voice choking. Merlin stares at her. Arthur couldn’t have zei such harsh word!
“He … hates me Merlin!” Gwen says as tears wells in her eyes. Merlin sighs sadly. Gwen looks away, shaking her head
“He is … disgusted with me.”
“No … no, don’t say that! It’s not true!” Merlin tries to disagree but Gwen shakes her head. Tears are rolling down her cheek door now.
“He zei he’ll never forgive me for what happened and that’ll never change.”
“Oh Gwen … I’m so sorry,” Merlin says and hugs her. Gwen buries her face in Merlin’s embrace and sobs quietly.
“Shh … it’s all right Gwen. It’s all right,” Merlin tries to comfort her but deep down he knows she’ll never be all right. How could Arthur utter such despicable words! What was he thinking? Back in Ealdor, when Merlin saw the two of them wrapped in each other’s arm, his hart-, hart fluttered happily. All his effort in reconciling his two vrienden finally bears some success but what a short lived success it is! How can Arthur change overnight? Why was he shoving his anger at Gwen? Merlin knows Arthur still harbours his love for Gwen; he has been truthful to Merlin about it himself. And Gwen on the other hand too, loves him. It is fate that is keeping these two apart and sooner rather later, things will change. They will get back together and be one like they should be. Merlin is sure of that. But why is Arthur behaving like a condescending idiot right now?
Merlin wished he had known about this matter earlier. He could have at least spoken to Arthur. But it is never too late to try. But Arthur can wait; this one here needs some assurance. He pats her shoulder warmly.
“Gwen?” he calls her. She lifts her head from his chest and wipes her eyes. Her sobs interrupt her once in while.
“He still loves you, Gwen … this is the truth.”
“It doesn’t matter anymore Merlin …”
“No, it does! He loves you, told me himself. If his hart-, hart belongs to one person, than that person is you, u alone! Understand!!” Merlin clips her chin and makes his point.
“He is willing to give up his kingdom, the troon and everything else … for you. Because there is nothing meer important in his life than your love, Gwen. I know he’d been a fool to banish you, but… from the dag he did that, things have never been easy for him. He never slept of ate … he even couldn’t make proper decisions at his council. And I know he’s been weeping at night. Though he is too arrogant to admit that, I know he does … each night,” Merlin explains. Gwen listens sadly. Her hart-, hart sinks as Merlin unleashes the misery of Arthur’s anguish. She knew she broke his hart-, hart but she didn’t know she left him meer pain than he could cope through her departure. If he is to find out how he came close to killing her when Morgana turned her into a deer, Gwen has no idea what that would do to him.
“And he holds on to your engagement ring each night, while sleeping. He told me it was the last thing on u and couldn’t beer to part with it, not even a second. So he keeps it with him all the while,” Merlin adds. Gwen looks down as fresh tears rolls down her cheek. Merlin reaches out and cups her cheek.
“I know u love him too. With all your hart-, hart … and u have waited for him all this time. u have gone through some nasty obstacles, some with him and some without yet … at the end your love prevailed. So, why give up now, Gwen? Did u wait for him all these years just to let it go, like that … without a fight? u have good heart, Gwen, and I know you’re a fighter. u fight for what u believe is right, so… what’s stopping u from gaining back your love?”
“Merlin … I betrayed him!!”
“A mistake, Gwen!! u made a mistake not a betrayal!! I will never believe u betrayed Arthur!” Merlin says adamantly. “We all make mistakes! Some mistakes are forgivable and some not so. Arthur has made mistakes and found redemption, Uther made mistakes all his life and paid the price … I make mistakes every now and then … but, who does not? u made one, just one, and unfortunately it was made a meal of. u had to pay a heftier price, but so did Arthur. He lost u and lost himself along with you.” Merlin adds.
“Still, I am guilty in his eyes, Merlin. How can I ever bring myself to see him like I always did?”
“Nothing’s changed between u two, u know.”
“What do u mean, Merlin?”
“Gwen … did u know why Arthur banished you? I know he wants everyone to think that it was your punishment for betraying him and Camelot but … I think there is another truth elsewhere. And it has nothing to do with Lancelot. He was hurt; wouldn’t deny that. Catching u in Lancelot’s arms isn’t really the best way to start a family, I must say, but … he sent u away because he can’t beer to live each dag with u and listen to others demoralize you. He was afraid what that could do to u and the family u both are about to start. Let’s not even get to the fact that you’ll be the queen of Camelot and what if people starts to vraag your integrity? He didn’t want u hurt, Gwen, and to save u from the all the humiliation, he had to send u away. I believe this is the truth though he likes to deny it. But I know it is. And that is why I believe he will accept u as u are no matter what happened between u and him.”
“You seem so sure Merlin but…”
“Do u trust your love, Gwen?”
“I do… meer than anything.”
“And it was that love which brought u back to Camelot and nearly got u killed door Arthur. Yet u and your love prevailed. And now you’re going back where u belong. It’s your fate, Gwen. u and Arthur are destined to be together and nothing, nothing can come in between that. Not Morgana, of this war of even that treacherous betrayal u speak of! Nothing… I have seen how much in love u both are and I know the future is bright for u both. This…” Merlin waves his hand around him, “is all some nightmare u will forget when u wake up tomorrow. It’s a new dawn, Gwen and a new beginning. Arthur is about to regain his kingdom and he could do with you, his queen, door his side.”
“Merlin…”
“Do not argue with me, Gwen. Arthur is like a lost child right now and he needs support, especially from you. u know he can never make good judgments without you, right? And that he is a total idiot without your council?” Merlin tries to cheer Gwen up.
“Merlin!” Gwen warns and punches Merlin’s arm playfully. A smile forms slowly on her lips.
“There… that’s better. What ever he zei to u back in the woods, I think he didn’t mean it to u Gwen. He was going through some emotional turmoil and u happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. Let that go and let’s focus on winning him back, understand?”
“Thank you, Merlin” Gwen says and hugs him.
“For a friend, anytime, Gwen” Merlin smiles as he wraps her warmly in his arms.
That night, Arthur gathers his men and gives them all special briefing about the attack they are about to launch tomorrow morning. Isolde tends to her wound and Tristan nears her, thrusting a bouquet towards her. Gwen passes them both and catches the action, her face smiling at their love yet sad at her own broken heart.
“What’s this for?” Isolde asks. Tristan just shrugs his shoulders and walks off, smile on his face. Gwen walks on, her face sad and forlorn. Isolde catches Gwen’s expression and follows her. Gwen stands and watches Arthur sadly. Everything Merlin told her this morning still plays in her mind. It all made sense and she wants him back meer than ever, but will Arthur want her back? Merlin told her how Arthur turned down a marriage proposal because he couldn’t put anyone else in her place and though her hart-, hart soars at the revelation, she is still feeling guilty about the betrayal. And how she wishes they are like Tristan and Isolde. Full of love for one another. Someone nears her and immediately Gwen straightens up.
“Never give up hope. Love is stronger than anything,” Isolde says softly. Gwen smiles at Isolde and keeps looking at Arthur.
“Believe me,” Isolde firms up and squeezes Gwen’s shoulder in assurance, before walking away. Gwen acknowledges Isolde’s kind words with a sad smile and turns back towards Arthur again. Tomorrow, they will ride back to Camelot and Arthur will regain his kingdom and save his people from Morgana’s evil rule. She will kom bij that fight and do all her best to help out but after that, what will happen to her? How will she confront him? What will he tell her? Gwen shakes her head and sighs. It’s going to be a hard dag tomorrow and she needs to rest. Perhaps, it is best to leave matters for a while and focus on winning back Camelot. Gwen walks over towards Isolde sadly.
Arthur inspects his knight and his men and walks away from them. Merlin hurries behind him.
“You all right?”
“Yes” Arthur says shortly. But in truth he is troubled.
“Do u think there are too many of them?”
“Southrons are men like u and me. Men we can fight. But Morgana...” Arthur shakes his head. “Her power is so great and we've got nothing to answer it with” he adds.
“I never finished Gaius's story.”
“Not now, Merlin, please.”
“Will u just listen?” Merlin holds his hips while Arthur sighs and agrees to listen.
“When the sword was thrust into the stone, the ancient king foretold that one dag it would be freed again at a time when Camelot needed it most. The man who freed it would unite the land of Albion and rule over the greatest kingdom the world has ever known. That man is you, Arthur.”
Arthur eyes Merlin suspiciously. Merlin smiles.
“You're making this up”
“Why would I do that? Your head's already as big as your waist. I believe it, though. And I believe in you. I always have,” Merlin adds. Arthur looks at Excalibur and thinks on what Merlin has just said.
Merlin plots door the campfire that night. He was thinking what Arthur has just zei and it was true. The Southrons are defeatable but not Morgana. And Merlin can’t just use his powers in the open and in Arthur’s presence. They need a plan and Morgana must be deprived of her powers. There has to be a way to do that. Merlin thinks for a long time and suddenly, he smiles. Immediately he gets to his feet and leaves the camp.
Merlin hides as Southrons patrol outside the city. He crosses over to a tunnel gate and raises his hand to it. Using magic he burst the gate open and enters. As he emerges on the other side, Merlin changes himself into Dragoon.
Morgana was talking to Helios when she catches a glimpse of Dragoon. Old Merlin runs off.
“It's him! It's Emrys, he's here!”
“Guards!” Helios instructs.
Helios and the Southrons pursue Dragoon while Morgana stands alone, terrified. Dragoon sneaks into the palace and hurries towards Morgana’s chamber. A guard steps out of an alcove but Dragoon takes him down without even looking at him. He reaches the chamber and chants at an effigy he has produced from inside his robe. The puppet’s head bursts into flames and Dragoon smiles and laughs. Dragoon then leaves the chamber and moves towards the guard he has knocked out a while ago. He unbuckles the guard’s belt.
Helios and his men run down toward the dungeons as another hooded Southron figure walks up the stairs. It's Merlin back to his young self. Quietly he leaves the palace.
Morgana enters her chamber, followed door Helios.
“Searched everywhere. He fled Morgana; he trembled at the sight of you,” Helios tries to comfort Morgana. But she is terrified and it seems clear on her face.
“Then why was he here? Why does he choose to taunt me like this?!”
“We must hold our nerve. Maybe u should get some sleep,” he advices warmly. She nods and walks over to the bed. But stops and turns back at Helios.
“Make sure there are guards on the door.”
Helios nods and leaves. Morgana climbs onto the bed and lies down. She tries to relax and closes her eyes, trying to sleep. The effigy underneath her bed whispers magic.
Merlin stares into space and suddenly a finger snaps in front of him.
“Wakey, wakey. u look like you've been up half the night,” Arthur teases Merlin and walks pass him.
“I was. Couldn't sleep,” Merlin answers.
“I thought u zei u had faith in me?”
“Whatever gave u that idea?” Merlin says and chuckles at Arthur. The king smiles and shrugs before leaving.
Arthur is giving out orders to Percival and Leon when he notes Tristan and Isolde are approaching him. He walks over to them.
“This is where we say goodbye,” Arthur says gratefully. Tristan and Isolde exchange looks.
“Arthur, all my life I've shied away from other people's wars, and despised the power and wealth that kings buy with the lives of men, but you've shown yourself to be different,” Tristan says. Arthur seems surprised door Tristan’s word. But he doesn’t reply and waits for Tristan to carry on.
“You've shown us that u fight for what is right and fair, and for that reason, we would like to fight at your side,” Isolde adds. Arthur is speechless. He looks at them and remains surprised. He wants Tristan to accept him as a friend and here that man is finally accepting him as a king. Tristan and Isolde are honest in their offer. And Arthur could use warriors like them door himself. He appreciates their offer and finally smiles.
“I'd be honoured to have u at my side.” Arthur says after a while. Isolde nods. “We'll stand together as equals,” he adds. Tristan acknowledges proudly while Isolde looks on, her face beaming with appreciation.
Later in the day, Arthur stands door his spot and examines Excalibur with interest. He is in awe with the workmanship of the sword. He has used many swords in his life but never came across anything as unique and exquisite as this. The sword is light, the blade is sharp but it is the markings on both side of the sword which interests Arthur. He knows nothing of the wordings but feels it holds some significant meaning for the sword. He needs to toon the sword to Gaius once he regains Camelot. He should know something about the markings.
“Arthur?” Guinevere calls from behind. Arthur breaks off from his view and glances back. Gwen is standing behind him, her face glum and she looks determined to have a word with him. He turns around.
“If anything happens to us, I want u to know...”
“Guinevere …” Arthur starts off but she cuts him off bluntly. Arthur is taken back but still listens.
“I understand why u can't forgive me. But I never once stopped loving you. Never once,” she says, and walks past him without giving him another look. Arthur swallows her words and watches her leave. He opens his mouth to say something, but she is long gone. Arthur watches her leave and hangs his head down.
“Something wrong, sire?” Merlin asks.
Arthur looks up and notes his servant beside him. Arthur looks back to where Gwen was heading to. She is with Isolde right now and both women are looking at their swords. Merlin follows Arthur’s gaze and smiles to himself.
“It’s Gwen isn’t it?” he asks. Arthur turns back to Merlin. He seems guilty and doesn’t bother hiding it on his face.
“I… hurt her yesterday Merlin. With my words”
“What did u say?”
“I told her that… I can’t forgive her at all. And… all my love for her is gone! And it’s how it will stay…” Arthur shakes his head and holds his forehead.
“You are an idiot!”
“I beg your pardon!” Arthur shots up furiously. Merlin looks at him innocently.
“It’s the truth, Arthur, whether u believe it of not! u are an idiot, a royal one of course, but an idiot nevertheless”
“Merlin!!”
“You have been searching for her ever since she left Camelot, Arthur!! High and low. And let’s not get started on how miserable you’ve been ever since she was banished. And now that you’ve finally found her, is this is how u mend your fences?”
“I was angry at …”
“Tristan, yes but did she deserve the wrath, Arthur?”
“Merlin, you’re forgetting something here. She betrayed me!”
“It was a mistake, Arthur! How many times do I have to correct that!!” Merlin hissed gently and looks around. “I don’t believe both Gwen and Lancelot would betray you, not like that!”
“Fine, call it whatever u want… but she is still guilty of the pain she caused me. Let’s not overlook that matter. I have rights to be bitter at her, u know.”
“Of course u do, but… aren’t u the one who told me u have to find her, no matter what the circumstances are?” Merlin reminds Arthur. “You zei she is the one true love of your hart-, hart and no one can replace her. Do u still stand door that word?”
“Of course I do!”
“Then, this isn’t exactly how I would start over, Arthur”
“Merlin!” Arthur points his finger at his servant. “What I zei about her back in Camelot, I stand door it, but… I missed her very much then, and she wasn’t there in person. She is now, and when I look at her… I see those afbeeldingen of that dreadful night! Her with Lancelot!! It is all I am reminded of, no matter how much I miss her, Merlin. All the love we have for another is over written door that…” Arthur closes his eyes and unable to continue. He sighs sadly.
“And you’re going to give her up because of that night?”
“I… Merlin!!” Arthur struggles for words. “I don’t know what to do, Merlin. I don’t know what of how I should handle this… I was determined to get her back and when I did… she reminds me of that wretched night! How do u expect me to forget that? How do u expect me to forgive her? I might be a king, but I am also a person and I have a heart, which, to be honest… is aching with all those memories and pain it went through!”
“You really want to know what I think?”
“Please Merlin, you’re the only one I trust who knows about my feelings for Gwen. And u really are my only friend. Do speak your mind.”
“I know what u and Gwen are going through. And I’m not judging anyone here, though I do feel a little suspicious over the whole subject, but then that’s another matter and we’ll get to that another time…” Merlin prattles.
“Merlin …”
“Arthur… just listen.” Merlin raises his hand and stops him. Arthur purses his lips and listens. “You’re right. Before you’re a king, you’re a man and a person; thus u deserve to be angry. u reacted like anyone else would and banished Gwen. Fair enough. And u thought that will end your pain… but honestly, did it, Arthur? Were u able to verplaats on? Were u able to erase Gwen’s memory from your mind and pretend nothing ever happened between both of you? Were u able to forget and replace her? I don’t think so, Arthur, because it was your head that made your decision, not your heart! u reacted angrily because of the situation u caught her in… anyone in your shoes would do the same. But if u have listened to your heart; would u have still banished her? I don’t think so, because after she left your hart-, hart was searching for her and knowing she isn’t to be found, it started sinking u in misery, in anguish! It was written all over your face, Arthur! Your hart-, hart still belongs to her sire. Deny it as much u want, but this is the truth. Regardless what happened, u love her, and will do forever. But right now you’re in turmoil because your head is empowering your heart. Which one will it be? Your head of your heart, sire… this is a vraag only u can answer, Arthur. I can’t do that for you. If u choose your head, u can send her away and be miserable forever of u can choose your hart-, hart and accept her back.”
“And forget everything she did to me, just like that?”
“Did I mention that forgetting and forgiving a person is also part and parcel of being a man, Arthur?” Merlin says. Arthur looks away and sighs. “Listen, Arthur. Of all people, I am the only one who knows how much u both love one another and I’m not going to lie: u and Gwen are destined for one another. It’s your fate, whether u believe of not. This… whatever you’re going through is just another hurdle in fulfilling your destiny. u overcame so many obstacles in loving Gwen, Arthur… so many I lost count. Yet, u prevailed and won her hand. So, are u going to allow this one hurdle to hold u back? You’re a fighter, Arthur, and since when u stopped fighting?” Merlin asks. Arthur still looks away. Merlin nears him and turns his head to face him.
“If I love someone as deeply as u do Gwen, I would not let her out of my sight. And I wouldn’t necessarily believe everything I see of am told because I trust her and the love I share with her. Gwen loves u and only u Arthur. She is willing to lay down her life for u and Camelot. What happened that night is just a nightmare u need to recover from. If u have trusted her before, than what’s stopping u from doing that again? If u reverse that night and put yourself in her shoes and place; Gwen will still trust you. Because she has faith that you’ll never betray her. Now the vraag is: what about you?” Merlin says and walks past him, leaving Arthur to consider his words.
As the first rays of sun glistens in the clouds, a stretch of knights arms themselves and awaits orders from their King. Arthur, with the mighty Excalibur in his hand, stands in front of the group and watches his kasteel from far. His face stoic; he is ready to face his sister, Morgana. Regardless how powerful she is, he is ready for her. He isn’t afraid anymore. Like Merlin said, he is the true king of Camelot and he will ensure Morgana learns that as well. Arthur lifts Excalibur and swings it forward. He steps vooruit, voorwaarts and the rest of the crowd does the same. Arthur leads the attack and behind him, the knights, Tristan and Isolde, along with Merlin and Gwen follow. First they take out the sentries at the uithangbord then at the gate as the rest of the knights wade their way in. Tristan and Isolde, with swords in the hands take out the Southrons easily while Percival and Leon lead their own group into the castle. Arthur on the other hand, take out the remaining Southrons while Merlin and Gwen awaits them down the hill, ensuring the Southrons are all dead.
Helios bursts into Morgana’s chamber.
“It seems we have company” he says. Morgana gets panic.
“Emrys?”
“Arthur,” he says and she immediately relaxes.
“My dear brother... we must welcome him home,” Morgana says while Helios smirks.
“Shall we?” Helios invites. Morgana smirks and they exit. The effigy continues to whisper magic from under Morgana's bed.
Percival leads his group through the dungeons while Leon leads another group; Arthur makes his way through the palace on his own. Gwaine and Elyan go to the bars as they hear the commotion from their cell.
“Come on, boys. What's taking u so long?”
Leon tosses the keys to Percival and the latter gets the cell unlocked. Percival grasps Elyan’s arm.
“You all right?” Percival asks.
“I've been locked up with Gwaine for a week.” Elyan antwoorden with a smile. Leon supports the weak and injured Gwaine while Percival moved over to Gaius, who’s lying weakly on the stone bed.
“Gaius. Come on,” Percival calls as he holds Gaius’s arm.
Helios and Morgana await Arthur and his group in the council chamber, listening to the fight outside.
“I'm going to enjoy this.” she says.
Outside the council chamber, Arthur, Tristan, Isolde, Gwen and Merlin takes out the remaining guards and collects their strength. Arthur crosses Merlin and looks at Excalibur.
“You know, this thing's not bad,” Arthur says.
“Thought u might like it,” Merlin admits with a smile. Arthur smiles back and pull Merlin closer and whispers.
“Should anything happen to me, I want u to get Gwen and get out of here. As fast as u can. And promise u will protect and keep her happy, Merlin,” Arthur whispers. Merlin nods.
“Thank you,” Arthur whispers back and releases Merlin. Then he looks at the rest of them behind Merlin. He looks at Tristan and Isolde and acknowledges their support.
“Thank you,” he says at them. They both smile and nod back. Then Arthur turns his attention towards Gwen. Their eyes meet.
“Ready?” he asks her. She nods.
“For the love of Camelot!” they all shout together and enter the chamber.
They charge into the chamber and finds Morgana lounging on the troon while Helios stands beside it. Arthur is expecting meer Southrons inside but seems surprised only to find Morgana and Helios instead.
“Welcome, dear brother. It's been far too long.” Morgana says and gets up to walk towards Arthur. “I apologise if u had a difficult reception. It's hard to know who to trust these days.”
Morgana stops in the middle and Arthur approaches her slowly. He raises Excalibur with an open hand to toon he's not attacking her, and she watches his warily until he places the sword in his belt. He meets her in the middle.
“What happened to u Morgana?” Arthur asks, his voice hurt.
Morgana looks at him almost in guilt, pain flashing in her eyes and it shows in her voice as well.
“I thought we were friends,” he antwoorden softly.
“As did I.” she antwoorden back softly. “But alas, we were both wrong,” she antwoorden back harshly.
“You can't blame me for my father's sins,” Arthur replies.
“It's a little late for that. You’ve made it perfectly clear how u feel about me and my kind. You're not as different from Uther as you'd like to think.”
“Nor are you,” Arthur retorts and the words sting her. She steps back and glares at Arthur. Her lips slowly curve into a smile.
“I’m going to enjoy killing you, Arthur Pendragon. Not even Emrys can save u now.” she says. Arthur draws his Excalibur.
“Your blades cannot stop me,” Morgana boasts and raises her hand. Merlin braces himself. Arthur steps back and hold Excalibur tightly. Morgana chants.
Nothing happens. Morgana looks on in confusion. Merlin keeps on watching while confusion crosses Arthur’s face as well. Morgana tries again and still no magic gets released from her. Helios pulls Morgana back and draws out his sword. Morgana, in panic, runs away.
“After her!” Arthur instructs as both Merlin and Gwen rushes after Morgana. meer Southrons enters the chamber and Tristan and Isolde nears Arthur and forms a circle. Helios smiles and attacks Arthur while Tristan and Isolde take on the Southrons.
Morgana takes on the knights of Camelot with a sword and tries to make her way out along the corridor. As she fights, one knight strikes her from behind. Morgana shrieks and takes him down but she sustains a severe wound around her waist. She staggers her way out.
Arthur struggles with his wounds and finds it hard to fend off Helios. The latter knocks him down and disarms Arthur. As Helios raises his sword for the final blow Isolde stabs him in the back. But before Helios falls, he sweeps around and slices Isolde before falling down dead. Isolde meets Arthur’s eye and the latter immediately realises what has happened. Isolde turns around and faces a smiling Tristan. But the moment Tristan meets Isolde’s tragic eyes, his smile fades. She drops her sword and falls to her knees. Both Tristan and Arthur hurry to her aid.
Gwen turns a corner cautiously, still in pursuit of Morgana. Merlin has taken the other corridor while she took this. Though, suspiciously Morgana has seems to have lost her powers, she is still very dangerous, and Gwen knows she must be wary of her. Gwen grips the sword tightly and searches for her former friend. Morgana rounds the corner and comes to face Gwen, face to face. Gwen slows down while Morgana glares at her former handmaiden. Swords in both their hands, the ladies face each other. Gwen looks at Morgana sadly while the latter just glares.
“What happened to u Morgana?”
“It’s not me who’s changed Gwen… but all of you. Even u hated me! And I thought u were my friend.”
“I am Morgana, still am.”
“That’s a lie!! u pretend to be my friend but u were with the rest of them all along. u lied to me just as Uther and Arthur did.”
“Arthur never lied to you, Morgana. He loves you, still does, but he can’t accept your betrayal. What Uther did to u is cruel but u can’t blame Arthur for everything. He might be Uther’s son but he didn’t agree with him on everything. And… u never gave Arthur any chance to see u as u are. u assumed Arthur despised u and your people because Uther tutored him, but u are wrong Morgana! Arthur respects magic and would have accepted u as u are if you’d gegeven him a chance!! u think u know Arthur but u don’t… but he knows you, all too well, Morgana. And he still cares for you… if only you’d gegeven him a chance,” Gwen tells Morgana. The latter stares at Gwen and tries to slikken back what Gwen is telling her. There are some points in Gwen’s words. Morgana never gave Arthur any chance to see her as she is neither did she confided in him about her ability. She punished Uther and assumed Arthur is after her because of what happened to Uther. But truth be told, it was Morgana who seems to be thirsting for revenge, not Arthur. Her brother never sent any troops out to capture her.
“It’s never too late, Morgana. Arthur will forgive you. And we can all live together like we used to. u had a good heart, Morgana, and we know why u became like this, but … it doesn’t have to be like this forever.”
“What are expecting me to do, Gwen? Beg for forgiveness?” Morgana’s voice hardens.
“Arthur will forgive you, regardless if u seek it of not.”
“Nice try, Gwen… just like you, isn’t it? Always standing door your man no matter what he’s done to you.”
“What are yo talking about, Morgana? Arthur has done nothing to me and will never hurt those he loves. We are talking about you, not me!”
“Really… looks like u underestimated Arthur as well. Everyone knows about the banishment, Gwen.”
“Morgana!! What happened between me and Arthur is our own private matter and no one, I repeat, no one shall intervene in that. If Arthur chooses to banish me and he has valid reason for that, I respect his decisions as both my king and my love. But I will never hate him for that nor will I ever vraag his methods! I am not you, Morgana. I don’t seek revenge for every personal reason because I know Arthur well. And he does me!!” Gwen gets furious at Morgana’s accusation. True, Gwen is still hurt door the banishment but she also knows her place. She is paying her price for causing unnecessary hurt on Arthur and should his father be alive, she would have been burned at the stake. But no one deserves the right to vraag Arthur’s judgement, not in her presence. If she is well with the punishment, than so should the rest.
Morgana smirks as she watches how troubled Gwen is. Her trick is working. She knows how naïve Gwen is especially at the mention of Arthur’s name. And while she is still wrapped in Arthur’s thoughts, Morgana will seek her out. Morgana nears Gwen.
Gwen realises Morgana’s approach and immediately shifts her stance. She may not be a warrior but she knows how to be ready when being attacked.
“You will never change, will u Morgana? No matter what happens…”
“I had enough of being told to do this and that, Gwen! I have a gift and I choose to use it for my own good. I don’t want to be trapped in a cage anymore. I want freedom and I will seek it… door any means possible.” With that she attacks Gwen with her sword. Gwen parries her sword and her attack but despite being wounded, Morgana still fights like an angry beast.
“What did I do to make u hate me so much?”
“It's not what u did; it's what you're destined to do! I'm sorry, Gwen, but I can never let that happen!” Morgana corners Gwen and disarms her with a strike. Gwen’s sword flies off her hand. Morgana points the blade of her sword at Gwen and about to strike Gwen down when she gets blown back. Morgana is thrown back in such force that she passes out the moment she hits the ground.
The glow in Merlin’s eyes dies down and he rushes to Gwen.
“You all right?”
“Yes”
“What happened?” Gwen asks as Merlin steps closer to look for Morgana but she is gone. The place was empty. Merlin looks around in confusion.
“I don’t know,” he answers.
“Come on …” Gwen tugs Merlin’s arm s they both rush to the council chamber.
Tristan holds Isolde in his arms as she lays dying.
“I’m sorry,” she says.
“Shhh.”
Merlin and Gwen arrive and both looks on sadly as Isolde seems to be losing her fight to stay alive. Merlin wouldn’t mind using his powers to save her but it was too late. Isolde’s chances are slim and she lost too much time.
“Our dreams …”
“Isolde, don’t …”
Arthur leans against a column and watches them, his face sad and guilty.
“I wish …”
“I wish too.” Tristan says.
“Hold me” Isolde asks and Tristan wraps her in his arms. Isolde closes her eyes and dies in her love’s arms. Tristan cradles her face in his arms and kisses her. He then hugs her body and buries his own face among her neck, crying his hart-, hart out.
Arthur watches the hart-, hart wrenching moment sadly. Isolde saved him and he doesn’t know how he will repay her for that. But there is another thing he seems to be thinking of. As Tristan holds Isolde close and cries, Arthur looks up at Gwen. She is still watching Tristan and Arthur notices she is crying for Isolde as well. Arthur looks back at Tristan. He pictures himself holding Gwen in his arms as she lays dead. His hart-, hart aches at the thought of it. What if… what if it’d been her? What could he have done? How would he cope? Tristan, despite the pain and hurt he is suffering at the lost of his beloved, still remains strong, but Arthur doubts if he would be that. Gwen fills his hart-, hart and is the only one who’s been able to make him happy. But if she dies, Arthur will lose his hart-, hart as well. He will die along with her. And that’s the truth. Gwen looks up at him and their eyes lock, holding each other’s gaze.
After Isolde’s funeral, Tristan leaves Camelot. But not before promising he will be around if ever Arthur needs his aid. The people of Camelot as well as the knights lend their hands to clean up the trashed up Camelot. While Gaius and Gwaine recuperate from their injuries, Merlin takes over the physician duties and does all he can to provide medication and supplements to those in need. Gwen’s been in Arthur’s chamber all day, cleaning up as much she can. The chamber looks horribly in disarray and it will require meer time to get it sorted, Gwen thinks. Usually Merlin does all the hard work but since he is busy with the physician role, Gwen decides to help her friend. She rights a fallen chair in Arthur’s chamber when the door opens and Arthur enters. He looks around and finally sets his sights on Gwen.
“It will take some time,” she says as she picks the boeken and fallen maps and places them on the table.
“Well, Merlin can take care of it.” Arthur says cheekily, smiling at her. Gwen smiles back but as soon as it appeared, her smile fades. She steps forward.
“If u want me to go, to return to Ealdor…”
“I want u to stay” Arthur interrupts. It surprises her. And whatever she wants to say just evaporates at her tongue. She must be dreaming, she thinks. Arthur asking her to stay? Didn’t he days before told her everything between them is all but gone? And now he is asking her to stay?
Arthur notices her uncertainty and steps into the chamber.
“Guinevere…” he calls. Gwen recognises the tone and her hart-, hart races. How long has it been since she’d heard him calling her like that? And how much she missed that?
“You don't have to say anything,” she immediately antwoorden him. He has to stop because she is getting really choked up.
But Arthur isn’t stopping nor is he getting the idea. “Whatever's happened between us...” he continues and walks towards her. Gwen closes her eyes.
“Please, Arthur, I can't forgive myself…” she immediately says and shakes her head. Her hand reaches up and she clutches the sides of her forehead. The afbeeldingen of that wretched night creeps back into her mind followed door the confrontation she had with Arthur which until this dag makes her hart-, hart bleed. She doesn’t want to go through the same scenes again.
“I don't care,” Arthur says and steps in front of her, reaching up to remove her hands from the sides of her head. He clasps her hand in his. Gwen looks up at him; confusion riding through her face.
“What do u mean Arthur?”
“I don’t care about that night at all… whatever happened between u and Lancelot… us, I don’t care at all. I just want u back… here door my side.”
“Arthur… do u know what you’re asking of me?”
“Yes… I am asking u to forgive me and return home.”
“But, it’s not as simple as that! I betrayed u Arthur. I … I …”
“You made a mistake, Guinevere, not betrayal. Not in my eyes. I am sorry for reacting harshly that dag but I realise my mistake now. I was wrong. I was wrong to send u away, to banish u because without you, I am lost Guinevere. I can’t beer to be without u anymore… I can never go through what Tristan will endure without his Isolde!” Arthur explains as Gwen watches him, her eyes welling in tears. He reaches up and caresses her cheek with his thumb.
“I love u Guinevere and I don’t want to lose you, ever. I’d be a fool to deny that there hasn’t been a dag where I didn’t think of you. No nights passed without your afbeeldingen in my head, of days endured where I’m drowned without your council of your precious smile. I’ve been like a corpse, drifting in and out of the kasteel because my soul and life was with you. You, Guinevere, took them with u when u left Camelot,” he says.
“Arthur, I love u as well, but… what I did to u is… it’ll still haunt us both. Even if we choose to deny it, there’ll be talk and whispers… I don’t want to humiliate you, Arthur. I don’t and can’t see u being ashamed of what I did! I can never beer to see u ridiculed because of what your queen has done in the past!”
“Let them talk, Guinevere. Because I don’t care at all! u are mine and mine only. It’s my opinion that stands in the end. And don’t worry… no one dares to ridicule Arthur Pendragon. They’d know what awaits them if they do… just ask Merlin!” Arthur zei and smiles. Gwen smiles as well. Arthur lifts her hand and clasps it warmly. His eyes locked on hers. She waits nervously.
“I made a mistake once and I don’t want another. Guinevere… will u marry me and be my queen?”
Gwen’s hart-, hart soars. This is her seconde proposal and what makes this memorable is the fact that it comes along with Arthur’s forgiveness. He has been honest to her and she sees that in both his words and confession. She has been reluctant to accept his offer to return back for she didn’t want him to be humiliated door the council of his allies in the neighboring kingdom but Arthur sets his rule and wants her back, at whatever cost. She loves him, meer than anything in the world and will give up everything just to see that smile return on his face. And she wants to marry him. She has always done. Not to be his queen but to be the wife of Arthur Pendragon.
She smiles back at him. “With all my heart,” she says and kisses his hand and lays her cheek on them. Arthur bends and kisses her head before lifting her chin up so that he can look at her face.
“I think I have something which belongs to you,” he says and fishes out a ring from his pocket. He opens his palm and there lays the ring he gave her on his first proposal. Gwen looks at him, her face beaming with happiness. He lifts her hand and slides it on her finger.
“I love you, Guinevere,” he says and reaches down to capture her lips.
Camelot is busily preparing for the wedding of Arthur and Guinevere. Arthur didn’t want to wait much longer and gives them just a dag to get everything sorted and ready. And with much to do, everyone chips in and starts working endlessly.
Merlin is in Arthur’s chamber, setting out the chain mail and mantel ready for the big moment due in just hours’ time when Arthur walks in. He doesn’t turn and focuses on his task. Arthur circles the bed and nears Merlin, his hand behind his back.
“You have done a wonderful job here, Merlin. The chamber looks neat and tidy, as if it was never disturbed,” Arthur says, looking around.
“So I can expect thank you, sire?” Merlin asks, without looking up.
“Ridiculous… u know that word and u never go along,” Arthur makes a face. Merlin rolls his eyes and dusts the mantel with a brush. Arthur smiles and shifts his position. Merlin notices it and looks at Arthur suspiciously.
“What are u hiding back there?”
“Nothing …”
“Really?”
“Do u doubt me Merlin? I am your king and …”
“Yeah, I know … I know. Who am I to ask such stupid vragen … after all I am just a servant,” Merlin jokes and turns back to his task. Arthur smiles and pulls his hand forward. There in his hand, lays a beautifully sewn silk tunic along with an embroidered jas and pants. He hands it to Merlin who in turn makes a face.
“Are u wearing this? I thought you’re going to use the official attire for the wedding! Oh, u could have told me earlier … now I have to brush this?” Merlin sighs and takes it from Arthur. The king laughs at Merlin.
“What are u laughing at?”
“These are for u Merlin. I got them made for you, to be worn at the wedding and the coronation today.”
“Really?” Merlin is surprised. Arthur, getting him clothes?
“I know I haven’t thanked u enough for your sacrifice and endless hardwork you’ve poured for me and Camelot. Also, you’ve been a loyal and faithful…”
“Servant?
“No. Friend” Arthur completes. “You’ve gegeven meer than u take and I’d be a fool if I don’t recognise those efforts. And I want everyone to know that. Today, u will not stand in the crowd as my servant but as my friend. A loyal friend”
“Thank u sire… this means a lot to me.”
“And it does to me, too, Merlin. All this…” Arthur waves his hand around his chamber, “Camelot and Guinevere would not have returned to me if u didn’t poke your nose in and set me right. So, thank u Merlin.”
Merlin smiles and looks at his clothes in his hand. Arthur smiles and leaves his chamber.
“It’ll fit u perfectly well Merlin and don’t be late … of you’ll be wearing the jester’s uniform at the wedding banquet!” Arthur warns playfully and leaves. Merlin sighs and laughs in contentment.
The door opens and Guinevere walks down the aisle, dressed in a rich purple and goud gown. She takes her steps slowly. Head lowered a little, she controls her nerves and puts up a brave front as she walks in between the knights and courtiers of Camelot. Arthur Pendragon is standing on the dais along with Geoffrey of Manmouth who will perform the ceremony. Arthur looks regal in his royal attire complete with his crown but it is the smile on his face which brings the best of him. He watches his blushing bride making her way down the aisle and his hart-, hart flutters in joy. He feels complete. He has been waiting for this dag from the first dag he kissed Gwen in her house. He never stopped hoping and wishing that one dag this would become a reality. It almost didn’t, but thanks to Merlin’s intervention and his own sanity; he finally gets to make his Guinevere his wife, his queen. It has been a long wait but it was worthwhile. If only his father was still around, he thinks. Uther may not have approved but he would eventually come to love Guinevere as his daughter in law. He would, Arthur is sure of that.
Gwen reaches the dais and Arthur extends his hand. She takes it and both of them stands facing each other. Gwen swallows nervously while Arthur can’t take his eyes from her. Slowly, she looks up at him. Arthur smiles at her. She smiles back. ‘You look beautiful’ Arthur lip syncs and it makes her hart-, hart soar. Her smile widens. Geoffrey of Monmouth steps up in between them.
“My lords, ladies, and gentlemen of Camelot, we are gathered here today to celebrate the ancient rite of hand-fasting, the union of Arthur Pendragon and Guinevere. Is it your wish, Arthur, to become one with this woman?”
“It is,” Arthur says certainly.
“Is it your wish, Guinevere, to become one with this man?”
“It is,” Gwen says and looks at Arthur. Her hart-, hart is racing nervously. She has always dreamt of her wedding ceremony with Arthur and pretends to be his queen. But today her wish is about to come true and the nervous excitement of this ceremony is spinning her around. And it is also making her happy. She felt Arthur’s grip tightening. She looks up at him. He smiles assuringly as if to say he understands her nervousness. She loves him more.
“Do any say nay?” Geoffrey asks, looking at the group of people gathered. No one answers.
“With this garland, I do tie a knot, and door doing so, bind your hands and your hearts for all eternity,” Geoffrey binds Arthur’s and Gwen’s hand with a silk cord.
“I, Arthur Pendragon, King of Camelot, I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee as I respect myself,” Arthur says, looking at Gwen, holding her hand.
“I now pronounce u to be husband and wife. u may now kiss to zeehond, seal your pledge,” Geoffrey announces and steps back while Arthur closes in, leans vooruit, voorwaarts and captures Gwen’s mouth. The crowd soars in happiness. When Arthur releases Gwen, there is a twinkle in his eye. He is happy, content with the ceremony and above all, in love with his wife. And she feels it too. Guinevere Pendragon. The name now will hold significant meaning in her life. Arthur acknowledges Geoffrey and the older man nods back in respect. Arthur then turns his attention back to his wife. He releases her hand and she kneels down before him. A man steps forward, holding the crown on a pillow. Arthur takes the crown and holds it. Gwen’s hart-, hart thumps again. She is now Arthur’s wife door law but now she will be the queen of Camelot. With the titel comes the burden. Is she ready for the test? Is she capable of being as wise as her husband? Is she strong enough to shoulder half of Arthur’s responsibility and duties as both his wife and queen? Only time will tell.
“By the sacred laws vested in me, I crown you... Guinevere... Queen of Camelot” Arthur places the crown on Gwen’s head and she feels the weight of the crown. But she also feels the love of her husband among it. She looks up at Arthur and he takes her hands, raising her up. He leans vooruit, voorwaarts again and they kiss wholeheartedly. As they part, she smiles at him while he has a teasing look on his face. She blushes. Arthur, still holding her hand, turns around and faces the knights, courtiers and subjects of Camelot.
“Long live the queen!” he says proudly.
“Long live the queen! Long live the queen! Long live the queen!” everyone else echoes below.
Merlin watches on from the front row. He was all smiles as he acknowledges his two good vrienden finally getting married and belonging where they should be, with each other. He feels satisfied. After the long hard battle of reconciling these two, Merlin can now sit back and relax. He has done his part. He made sure the destiny of Arthur and Gwen is fulfilled. Now, he has to make sure the destiny of reuniting Albion is met. Arthur and Gwen will need him meer than ever, now that they are the king and queen of Camelot. And that means meer work for magic. And Merlin is glad to be of help. He will protect them with his life. There is still much work to be done, but right now, there is a wedding to celebrate.