4.12 THE SWORD IN THE STONE PART ONE SCRIPT

KILGHARRAH
In a land of myth and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of a young man. His name: Merlin.

--
[00:13, INT. KING’S PALACE, KING ARTHUR’S CHAMBERS - NIGHT]
[Arthur dresses behind the screen.]

KING ARTHUR
What’s taking so long?

MERLIN
It’s the Feast of Beltane, the king must look kingly.

KING ARTHUR
I’m hardly going to look kingly in my undergarments, am I?

MERLIN
Have a little patience. Think of something pleasant.

KING ARTHUR
You in the stocks?

MERLIN
Wait one second...

[Merlin fiddles with something.]

KING ARTHUR
One?

[Arthur steps out from behind the screen and Merlin spins around, hiding something behind his back.]

KING ARTHUR
What have you got there?

MERLIN
Nothing. My hand.

[Merlin shows his right hand, then hides it behind his back.]

MERLIN
My other hand.

[Merlin shows his left hand, then hides it behind his back. Arthur walks forward dressed in everything but his trousers. He turns Merlin around and sees his belt in Merlin’s hands. He takes it.]

KING ARTHUR
Why are you putting another hole in this belt?

MERLIN
I was, er...enhancing it for comfort and ease of use.

KING ARTHUR
Are you saying I’m fat?

MERLIN
No. I’m saying that the belt is one hole shy of perfection.

KING ARTHUR
Ridiculous.

[Arthur tries to put the belt on over his chainmail. He cringes as he tries to squeeze it tight.]

KING ARTHUR
Come on.

[It won’t close.]

MERLIN
Don’t be too hard on yourself. A little extra padding goes with the job. What, with all the feasts and banquets and ceremonies.

[Arthur gives up on the belt and hands it to Merlin.]

KING ARTHUR
Right, Merlin, do what you have to do. Not a word of this to anyone, understand?

MERLIN
Trust me, if there’s one thing I’m good at it’s keeping secrets.

--
[01:26, EXT. KING'S PALACE, SIEGE TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Agravaine strikes a match, lights a smoke grenade and launches it at the feet of the sentries guarding the entrance to the siege tunnels. The guards cough and pass out. Agravaine steps past them and signals Morgana's troops with a torch. They signal back.]

--
[01:57, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[The dining room bustles with conversation as Arthur enters. He passes Gaius as he heads to the head of the table.]

KING ARTHUR
Have you seen Agravaine?

GAIUS
Er, no, sire. Not since this morning.

KING ARTHUR
Strange. He should be here by now.

[Arthur takes his place at the head of the table and Merlin arrives with a heaping plate of food.]

KING ARTHUR
Ah! My favourite. Herb crusted caper.

MERLIN
Easy now, we don’t want any more holes in that belt.

[Percival chokes on his wine as he sniggers.]

KING ARTHUR (forced)
Ha-ha.

MERLIN (to Gaius)
Wine?

[Gaius nods and Merlin pours him a glass.]

KING ARTHUR
Merlin.

[Arthur nods for him to lean in. Merlin steps closer and Arthur grabs the front of his shirt.]

KING ARTHUR
It’s a good job you don’t have anything of any actual importance to keep secret, isn’t it?

--
[02:31, INT. KING'S PALACE, SIEGE TUNNELS - NIGHT]
[Agravaine exits the tunnels and looks for Morgana's army, worried that she's not there yet. His expression relaxes and he smiles when he sees the Southrons approaching. He leads them through the tunnels.]

--
[02:56, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Arthur watches Sir Percival chatting up a lovely lady. He turns away, depressed.]

MERLIN
You all right?

KING ARTHUR
No one likes to be called fat, Merlin.

MERLIN
Sorry.

[Arthur looks around, continuing to mope.]

MERLIN
It's Gwen, isn't it?

KING ARTHUR
I look for her in the room; she’s not there… then I remember why.

--
[03:33, EXT. KING'S PALACE, CITY GATE - NIGHT]
[Southrons snap the necks of the sentries at the gate, then cover the lower town with lighter fluid. Agravaine drops a torch on it and the whole lower town goes up in flames. He smirks. Morgana watches from the hills, Helios at her side and the Southron army behind her.]

MORGANA
It's time.

[OPENING TITLES]

--
[04:38, EXT. CAMELOT, LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[The townsfolk flee as knights attempt to put out the fires. Elyan shouts an order.]

SIR ELYAN
[...] We need more water. Now!

SIR LEON
Forget about the water.

SIR ELYAN
But if we can't--

[Leon grabs Elyan's arm and directs his attention to the arch where the Southron army is advancing.]

SIR ELYAN
How did they breach the gate?

SIR LEON
We can't worry about that now. Quickly, sound the alarm!

[The knights draw their swords.]

--
[05:03, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL DINING CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Arthur stands in confusion as the warning bells sound and Gwaine enters.]

SIR GWAINE
Sire! We're under attack! They're within the city walls!

[Arthur takes off his cloak.]

KING ARTHUR
Merlin, get everyone to the inner chamber.

MERLIN
Yes, sire. Everyone follow me!

[Arthur jumps over the table and grabs a sword.]

KING ARTHUR
Gwaine, secure the armoury! Percival, with me!

--
[05:15, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Elyan runs into Agravaine marching down the corridors with the Southrons.]

SIR ELYAN
This is your doing.

AGRAVAINE
Oh, stand aside. There's nothing you can do about it now.

[Elyan draws his sword.]

SIR ELYAN
I can kill you for the traitor that you are.

[Agravaine draws his sword.]

AGRAVAINE
Brave words, Elyan. And they shall be your last.

[Elyan is thrown backwards and falls to the floor unconscious. The Southrons step aside revealing Morgana behind them with a hand raised.]

MORGANA
We don't have time to play soldiers, Agravaine.

[Morgana marches past them and they follow.]

--
[Arthur leads the defensive through the corridors. Southrons pour into the main square.]

--
[05:57, INT. KING'S PALACE, INNER CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Gaius help the wounded.]

MERLIN
The lower town is lost. It's only a matter of time before they reach the citadel.

GAIUS
But how did this happen? How did they get in without being detected?

MERLIN
We knew Agravaine was planning something.

GAIUS
It seems your worst fears have been realized, Merlin.

[Merlin takes off.]

GAIUS
Merlin!

MERLIN
I've got to find Arthur!

--
[06:18, INT. KING'S PALACE, CORRIDORS - NIGHT]
[Arthur slices through Southrons on his way down the corridor. Merlin runs to find him.]

--
[06:39, EXT. CAMELOT, LOWER TOWN - NIGHT]
[Helios kills his way through the lower town.]

SIR LEON
We can't hold them for much longer! Lead the people to the woods! Retreat! Retreat!

--
[06:54, INT. KING'S PALACE, PHOENIX CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Arthur and his knights fights Southrons. Arthur kills the two attacking him, but a third takes down one of his knights and turns on Arthur, striking him in the ribs. Merlin arrives. Arthur elbows the attacker in the face and clutches his side as he runs down the corridor. Merlin intercepts him and pulls him around the corner. Arthur yells in pain.]

KING ARTHUR
Been hiding in the broom cupboard as usual, Merlin?

MERLIN
We need to get out of here!

[Merlin shoves Arthur down another corridor, then turns back to the Phoenix corridor as the Southrons run toward them.]

MERLIN
Bæl on bryne!

[Merlin's eyes glow and the torch fires spring across the width of the corridor, blocking the Southrons as they cower back.]

--
[07:21, EXT. KING'S PALACE, COURTYARD CORRIDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Arthur run down the corridor, Arthur still clutching his side.]

MERLIN
Are you all right?

KING ARTHUR
I'm fine.

[They stop against a column and Arthur grunts in pain.]

KING ARTHUR
Maybe a broken rib or two.

[Arthur peeks around the corner and sees Helios and Morgana leading the Southron army. His expression changes to shock when he sees Agravaine with them. He rests back against the column.]

KING ARTHUR
Agravaine.

[Arthur's anger rises and Merlin grabs him to stop him from launching out to face the entire Southron army alone.]

MERLIN (whisper)
No! It's no good! Arthur! There are too many of them. We can deal with your uncle later. All right?

[Arthur calms a little and Merlin lead him away.]

MERLIN (whisper)
Go.

--
[08:16, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Knights, guards, and townsfolk flee the city.]

SIR LEON
Quickly, this way! Go on! Quickly! Go on!

[Leon looks back at the burning city.]

--
[08:27, INT. KING'S PALACE, THRONE ROOM - NIGHT]
[Helios approaches Morgana who lounges on the throne alone.]

HELIOS
The city has fallen. Camelot is ours.

MORGANA (unimpressed)
And?

[Helios gives her a look. She rises from the throne.]

MORGANA
Taking Camelot was the easy part, Helios. I want Arthur. Where is he?

HELIOS
He's right here, my lady. In the palace. He's nowhere left to run.

[Morgana smiles. Helios smiles and laughs as Morgana stalks past him.]

--
[09:05, INT. KING'S PALACE, INNER CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Gaius tends to Arthur.]

GAIUS
I can bind the ribcage, but even that would run the risk of puncturing a lung.

KING ARTHUR
Do whatever it takes, Gaius, just so long as I can swing a sword.

[Gwaine and Percival bar the doors.]

GAIUS
How do we stand?

SIR PERCIVAL
The citadel is overrun. We can't hold out much longer.

GAIUS
How long before they reach us?

SIR PERCIVAL
Minutes at best.

MERLIN
We can't wait for Arthur. If they find him, they'll kill him.

SIR PERCIVAL
We must get him to safety while we still can.

SIR GWAINE
Arthur would never abandon his people. He'd rather die.

MERLIN
Barricade the doors. Give us as much time as you can.

[Merlin and Gaius step aside.]

MERLIN
We need to get Arthur out of here whether he likes it or not. Give him some kind of potion, something to knock him out?

GAIUS
I don't have anything strong enough. In my chambers, perhaps, but the Southrons control the palace.

MERLIN
There must be something.

GAIUS
I'm sorry, Merlin. Maybe there's something you can do. Arthur won't go willingly. What if he was to lose his will?

MERLIN
Are you suggesting magic?

GAIUS
You'll do it?

MERLIN
I can try.

[Merlin steps behind Arthur and Gaius steps in front of him as Arthur leans back against the table.]

GAIUS
I'm sorry, sire, this is going to hurt.

KING ARTHUR
Just get on with it!

[Gaius presses his hands into Arthur's wound and Arthur howls in pain.]

MERLIN
*spell*

[Merlin's eyes glow and Arthur stirs weirdly. Gwaine and Percival rush up.]

MERLIN
We need to leave now, sire!

[Merlin looks at Gaius, waiting.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Of course.

[Arthur stands up, slightly unsteady and the others look at each other. Merlin gives Gaius a shrug and Gwaine and Percival brush off their surprise.]

SIR PERCIVAL
Then let's go.

[Percival slings Arthur's arm around his neck and helps him out.]

SIR PERCIVAL
We'll use the posting gate.

[Merlin gathers Arthur's things. Gwaine stops as the walk out and offers his hand to Percival.]

SIR GWAINE
I'll keep them off your back as long as I can.

[Percival looks surprised for a moment, then grasps Gwaine's outstretched arm and exits with Arthur. Gaius just stands there.]

MERLIN
Gather your things, Gaius.

GAIUS
You go, Merlin. I'll just slow you down.

MERLIN
Gaius, no.

GAIUS
You must know it's for the best.

MERLIN
No, if you stay here--

SIR GWAINE
No time to argue. I'm sorry.

[Gwaine shoves Merlin toward the exit.]
GAIUS
Look after our king, Merlin.

[Merlin hesitates, then runs off. Gwaine and Gaius face the door. The Southrons burst in, Morgana in their midst. Gwaine allows his sword to be taken.]

GAIUS
It seems your victory is short-lived, Morgana.

[Morgana scowls and turns to the door.]

MORGANA
Prepare the horses! We're going on a hunt.

--
[11:38, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Percival support Arthur through the woods, Merlin at their side. They slow to a stop.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Thank you, Percival.

MERLIN
Can you walk on your own?

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Oh, yes. Just point me in the right direction.

[Footsteps approach.]

SIR PERCIVAL
Shh!

[Percival grabs someone.]

SIR PERCIVAL
Elyan.

SIR ELYAN
[...] on my account.

[They smile.]

SIR PERCIVAL
Is the way out of Camelot clear?

SIR ELYAN
As far as I can tell.

[They head off, while simpleton!Arthur lingers to watch Camelot burn. Merlin waits for him.]

MERLIN
Come on, Arthur.

[Merlin nods for Arthur to follow and he walks on slowly.]

--
[12:15, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]

SIR PERCIVAL
They'll come after us. They know Arthur's still alive.

SIR ELYAN
Then we have to make it across the border, find sanctuary anywhere we can.

MERLIN
I know a place. Ealdor. It's near the white mountain. Wait!

[They stop and Merlin turns back to listen. He hears hoof beats.]

MERLIN
Listen.

SIR PERCIVAL
Run!

[They run as Morgana, Agravaine, and the Southrons ride straight for them.]

MORGANA
*spell*

[Morgana's eyes glow and they're all thrown forward. Merlin and Elyan help Arthur to his feet and they keep running. Southrons pursue on foot.]

MERLIN
Where's Percival?

SIR ELYAN
We have to go!

[They reach a rock trench and Elyan stops.]

SIR ELYAN
Go!

[Arthur runs on. Elyan hands Merlin a sword.]

MERLIN
What about you?

SIR ELYAN
Don't worry about me. Go!

[Merlin runs off. Elyan steps into the trench opening and fights off the Southrons as they come one at a time.]

--
[13:30, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Merlin stops running and holds up a hand and simpleton!Arthur runs into him.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Sorry! My fault.

[Merlin is surprised by this new development.]

MERLIN
Well, I think we're safe for now. But we need to find you some kind of disguise. You're too conspicuous in those clothes.

[Arthur looks down at his armour and red cape.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Well, whatever you say. I'm entirely in your hands.

[Merlin stares at simpleton!Arthur for a moment and they continue on.]

--
[14:02, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Morgana is curled up on the throne, smiling up at Helios as Agravaine enters.]

AGRAVAINE
All quarters of Camelot are now under our control. Some knights have fled to the woods, but those that did not escape are either in our dungeons or dead.

MORGANA
Very good.

[Agravaine smiles at Morgana, but it fades when he catches Helios's eye.]

MORGANA
Now [...] the people of Camelot welcome me as their queen?

AGRAVAINE
They will swear allegiance to no one but Arthur.

MORGANA
I expected no less. Burn their crops.

[Agravaine is clearly shocked.]

MORGANA
Let’s see how they feel when their children begin to starve.

HELIOS
And what of Arthur?

[Morgana nods and a couple of Southrons shove Elyan into the chamber. Helios nods and they shove him to his knees in front of Morgana.]

MORGANA
We'll find Arthur soon enough.

--
[15:00, EXT. WOODS, HUT - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur find a hut with laundry hanging on the clothesline outside. Arthur hunches down over Merlin's shoulder.]

MERLIN
Perfect.

[Arthur nods like an imbecile behind him as Merlin tries to get up with Arthur squeezed in next to him. Merlin sits against a wall as Arthur changes.]

MERLIN
In your own time. Obviously.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Agh. Sorry, Merlin. Some of these things are a little on the tight side.

MERLIN
Beggars can't be choosers, sire.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
No, you're right. Probably should learn to think before I speak, shouldn't I?

[Merlin smiles.]

MERLIN
It'd be a start.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Agh. All done.

[Arthur steps out from behind the wall for inspection. The trousers reach just below the knee, the sleeves barely reach past his elbows, and the shirt shows a large section of midriff. Merlin closes his eyes and laughs.]

MERLIN
Well, Arthur, what can I say? You look like a total turnip head.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Well, should I try something else? There's--there's plenty more here.

MERLIN
No. No. That-- that will do absolutely fine. Although, maybe I'll take that.

[Merlin takes the money pouch on Arthur's belt.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
My gold.

MERLIN
Probably safer with me.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Of course.

[Merlin smiles a bit, then gives simpleton!Arthur a strange look.]

--
[16:09, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL TORTURE CHAMBER - DAY]
[Morgana holds out a small black snake.]

MORGANA
Do you know what this is? No? It's a Nathair in the mountains of Asgaard. Harmless enough most of the time, but with a little persuasion, it can cause a man pain beyond all imagining. So you have a choice. Tell me where Arthur is...

[Elyan smirks.]

MORGANA
Or sample the delights of my little friend here.

SIR ELYAN
I'll tell you nothing.

MORGANA
I was hoping you'd say that.

[Morgana holds up the snake.]

MORGANA
*spell*

[Morgana grabs Elyan. Helios and Agravaine watch as Morgana applies the snake and Elyan screams in agony. Later, Helios eats some chicken while he and Agravaine wait outside the torture chamber, listening to Elyan's screams. Agravaine is clearly disturbed.]

AGRAVAINE
Good God, will it never end?

HELIOS
What's wrong? Don't have the stomach for it?

[Helios smirks at Agravaine. Morgana exits the torture chamber.]

MORGANA
Arthur travels to Ealdor. You will leave without delay. And Agravaine, fail me again and you'll be taking Elyan's place.

[Agravaine shoots Helios a look. Helios smirks and walks off at Morgana's side.]

--
[17:34, INT. KING'S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[Elyan is dragged to the same cell as Gaius and Gwaine. Gwaine catches Elyan as the Southrons drop him and lock the door.]

SIR GWAINE
What have they done to him?

GAIUS
This is the work of the Nathair serpent. He's been tortured to the limit of human endurance.

SIR GWAINE
Can you help him?

GAIUS
I'll do what I can.

--
[18:05, INT. KING'S PALACE, KING ARTHUR'S CHAMBERS - DAY]
[Morgana reads Arthur's documents. Agravaine enters.]

MORGANA
I thought I told you to leave at once.

AGRAVAINE
My men are all ready to depart.

MORGANA
Then what are you waiting for?

AGRAVAINE
I...

[Morgana looks at him with a confused scowl.]

AGRAVAINE
I just wanted to say goodbye.

MORGANA
Consider it done.

AGRAVAINE
And to ask you to take care.

MORGANA
Why? I have nothing to fear.

AGRAVAINE
Despite all that you have achieved, Morgana, you must remain cautious. There's danger at every turn. You can trust no one. Not even Helios.

[Morgana smiles and leans back.]

MORGANA
No one except you, is that it?

AGRAVAINE
I am your one true ally, my lady. I am your one true friend. I would do anything for you, you know that.

MORGANA
I am grateful for your loyalty, Agravaine. That is why I've entrusted this mission to you.

AGRAVAINE
I understand. Of course I do. I only wish it did not take me from your side where I can best protect you.

MORGANA
Find Arthur and you need never leave my side again.

[Agravaine bows.]

AGRAVAINE
My lady.

[Agravaine exits and Morgana sits back and considers their conversation. Agravaine leads the Southrons out of Camelot.]

--
[19:50, EXT. WOODS - DAY]
[Merlin senses something.]

MERLIN
Stop.

[Merlin listens, then turns to simpleton!Arthur and speaks slowly.]

MERLIN
Wait here.

[Simpleton!Arthur nods and Merlin heads off. Arthur heads off in the other direction. Merlin catches sight of set of travellers breaking camp. Someone puts a sword at his back. It's a blonde woman.]

ISOLDE
Hello.

[She smiles. Isolde brings Merlin and Arthur to Tristan, who's sharpening a knife.]

ISOLDE
I found them lurking in the woods.

TRISTAN
See anything interesting?

MERLIN
No.

[Merlin and Arthur duck as Tristan throws the knife into the tree behind Merlin's head.]

TRISTAN
You want to watch where you stick your beak, boy.

MERLIN
I didn't see anything, I promise. We were just passing through.

ISOLDE
They've no horses, no supplies, nothing.

TRISTAN
Like to travel light, do you?

MERLIN
Something like that.

TRISTAN
So where're you headed?

MERLIN
North over the border.

TRISTAN
Lot's kingdom. He doesn't take kindly to strangers, I can tell you. Likes to decorate his fortress with their heads.

MERLIN
So why are you heading there?

TRISTAN
I have my reasons.

MERLIN
Right.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
I agree with him.

TRISTAN
What's wrong with your friend?

MERLIN
He's a simpleton, he can't help it.

TRISTAN
Look after him, do you?

MERLIN
Without me, he wouldn't last a day.

[Simpleton!Arthur nods. Tristan narrows his eyes at them suspiciously, then looks back at his wagon.]

TRISTAN
Very well, I suppose you can be on your way.

[Tristan retrieves his knife from the tree.]

MERLIN
Could we not come with you? I mean, I--I would be grateful for the company, to be honest.

[Arthur steps forward.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
I'm very annoying.

TRISTAN (scoffs)
I'm sorry.

MERLIN
Please?

TRISTAN
Don't push it, boy. You're lucky I let you go with your lives.

MERLIN
I could pay you.

[That catches their attention.]

MERLIN
With gold.

TRISTAN
Well, why didn't you say so before?

[Arthur smiles like an idiot. Merlin looks at him and simpleton!Arthur goes serious.]

--
[21:56, EXT. WOODS, HUT - DAY]
[Agravaine finds Arthur's discarded clothes.]

AGRAVAINE
What kind of coward would deny who he is? Men, this way! Can't have got far!

--
[22:14, EXT. WOODS - DAY]
[Merlin and Arthur travel with Tristan and Isolde.]

TRISTAN
We make camp here!

[Isolde smiles as Tristan helps her down from the wagon and he holds her in his arms.]

ISOLDE
Why, thank you.

TRISTAN
My pleasure.

[Arthur sticks a leg out of the wagon and Merlin shoves it back in. Later, Merlin helps them make camp. He opens a box and Isolde steps around the corner of the wagon.]

ISOLDE
That doesn't concern you.

MERLIN
I'm sorry. It's just, I recognize that smell. That is frankincense isn't it?

TRISTAN
What if it is?

MERLIN
Must be worth a fortune.

TRISTAN
It must be.

[They give each other a long look.]

MERLIN
You're smugglers.

ISOLDE
We prefer to think of it as free trade.

[Tristan chuckles.]

MERLIN
It's forbidden. By edict of the king, if you're caught, you could be killed.

TRISTAN
Caught? Tristan and Isolde? I don't think so. We're too quick and too smart for the halfwit king in Camelot.

[Tristan walks past simpleton!Arthur who is hugging a tree, tapping it with his knuckles with an ear pressed against the trunk.]

MERLIN
You don't say.

[Merlin goes to collect Arthur.]

--
[23:49, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Arthur sit by their own campfire.]

MERLIN
More soup?

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Yes, please.

[Merlin ladles some soup for Arthur.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Thank you.

[Arthur lifts the bowl to his lips.]

MERLIN
A please and a thank you all the same time? That's amazing.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Is it?

MERLIN (nods)
Mm. Well, let's just say manners are not your strong point.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Really?

[Merlin nods.]

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
In what way?

MERLIN
Rude. Thoughtless. Insensitive. And that's when you're in a good mood.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Sorry to hear that.

MERLIN
I don't think you realise how hard I work for you. I know you're the king, but it would be nice if you could do one small think for yourself as a, erm...gesture. Mark of respect.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Sorry to have been a disappointment, Merlin. I'll try harder in future.

MERLIN
Oh, I look forward to that. On the other hand, why wait?

[Merlin drops his soup bowl on top of the one Arthur is holding.]

MERLIN
That pot will need rinsing out as well.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Of course.

MERLIN
And when you're done with that, the horses need a rubdown, too.

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
My pleasure.

[Merlin watches simpleton!Arthur as he gets up and takes the stewpot.]

MERLIN
Over there.

[Merlin points. Arthur walks over the bushes and falls over, crashing down with a clatter. Merlin smiles and lies down.]

MERLIN
You all right?

ARTHUR THE SIMPLETON
Yeah.

[Arthur gets up and continues on.]

--
[25:30, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Agravaine rides through the woods, the Southrons bearing torches behind him on foot.]

--
[25:53, EXT. WOODS, CAMP - MORNING]
[Arthur walks through the camp while everyone's asleep. He walks up to Merlin and gives him a few small kicks to wake him.]

ARTHUR (low)
You better have a damn good explanation for this, Merlin.

[Merlin stares at him.]

ARTHUR
Fine. Then I'll just carry on kicking you.

[Arthur kicks Merlin some more and Merlin scrambles to his feet.]

MERLIN
Arthur.

[Merlin looks into Arthur's face.]

MERLIN
You're back.

ARTHUR
What do you mean "I'm back"? You're talking gibberish.

MERLIN
Listen to me, please. Camelot is lost. You were injured in an attack, you passed out. I had to get you out of there.

[Arthur is stunned as he remembers.]

ARTHUR
Where are we now?

MERLIN
We're heading north to a safe haven, to Ealdor. Hopefully the knights will meet us there.

[Arthur looks around the camp.]

ARTHUR
Who are these people?

MERLIN
They're, er...smugglers.

ARTHUR
Smugglers?!

MERLIN
Shhh!

ARTHUR
All right, let's assume, for one moment, you know what you're doing. It doesn't explain why I look like a village idiot.

MERLIN
It's the perfect disguise. No one would ever suspect you of being, you know...who you are.

ARTHUR
I'm sorry, Merlin. I am not going around looking like this.

MERLIN
You have to. You got to keep in character.

ARTHUR
Character? What character?

TRISTAN
You.

[Merlin turns around.]

TRISTAN
We leave as soon as the horses are watered. Explain it to the simpleton, would you?

[Arthur looks at Merlin and Merlin smiles sheepishly. Merlin carries the sword as he and Arthur walk toward the wagon. Arthur takes the sword back and Tristan and Isolde look up.]

TRISTAN
Simpleton.

MERLIN
He's talking to you.

ARTHUR
I don't answer to that name.

MERLIN
In character, remember?

[Tristan looks down at the sword.]

TRISTAN
Impressive piece.

ARTHUR (pirate)
Thank you, sir.

TRISTAN
May I?

[Arthur lets Tristan take the sword. He examines the blade.]

TRISTAN (scoffs)
Magnificent. The only place you find workmanship of this quality is the royal forge of Camelot.

[Tristan puts the sword to Arthur's throat.]

TRISTAN
Tell me, how did you come by it?

MERLIN
I won it in a card game. Gave it to him as a present. Won't be parted from it. Makes him feel safe.

[Tristan narrows his eyes suspiciously. Arthur nods stupidly and Tristan hands the sword back to him.]

TRISTAN
I hope for your sake that's true.

[Arthur takes the sword like he doesn't know how to hold it.]

TRISTAN
I'd hate to think that I was riding with a knight of Camelot.

[Arthur hugs the sword to his chest.]

ARTHUR (pirate)
Aye.

[Isolde giggles.]

ISOLDE
Knight of Camelot? Look at him.

[Merlin chuckles. Arthur pretends not to know how to put the sword in his belt.]

TRISTAN
You're right. Their knights may be stupid, but they're not that stupid.

[Arthur puts on a big smiles and chuckles with the rest of them as Merlin tussles his hair.]

MERLIN
Pack your things, simpleton!

[Arthur grabs Merlin's arm.]

ARTHUR (smiling)
Call me that again and I'll run you through.

MERLIN
Don't worry, sire, I'm sure you won't have to keep it up for too much longer.

ARTHUR
How long?!

[The man walking past them gets shot with an arrow. They turn and see Southrons charging the camp. Arthur grabs Merlin to duck out of the way. An arrow lands in the tree next to Arthur's head and they run to take cover behind the wagon with Tristan and Isolde. Arthur takes charge.]

ARTHUR
Head for those trees, we'll cover you.

[Tristan and Isolde exchange a confused look.]

ARTHUR
Do you want to live or not?

[Tristan steps forward to question Arthur, but Isolde grabs his arm and they run off.]

[Arthur and Merlin fire crossbows at the Southrons through the wagon. Merlin tosses Arthur another bolt and reloads his own crossbow.]

MERLIN
Now what?

ARTHUR
Now it's our turn.

MERLIN
Who's going to cover us?

ARTHUR
Don't be a simpleton, Merlin.

[They take aim and hit another two Southrons, but more keep coming. Arthur grabs the sword from the wagon and they run off. They take cover behind a fallen tree with Tristan and Isolde. Agravaine directs the Southrons by the wagon.]

ISOLDE
They haven't found the cargo.

TRISTAN
They will. Besides, they weren't after the cargo. They were after you. Who the hell are you?

ARTHUR
My name is Arthur Pendragon.

TRISTAN
The king of Camelot!

ARTHUR
At least I was.

TRISTAN
I've lost everything I've worked for for some good for nothing king!

ARTHUR
That's quite something coming from a smuggler.

TRISTAN
Well, I wouldn't have to be a smuggler if it wasn't for your damn taxes, would I?!

ARTHUR
Those taxes help protect the people of this land.

TRISTAN
My people are dead. You call that protection?

MERLIN
Excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but...

[Merlin directs their attention to the Southrons charging them from behind. Arthur and Tristan charge the Southrons and fight side by side. Isolde fights more Southrons. One elbows her in the head and slashes her sword arm, kicking her to the ground. The Southron poises for the final blow, but crumples as Arthur stabs him in the back. Tristan runs to Isolde and holds her. Arthur and Merlin watch empathetically.]

TRISTAN (whisper)
Isolde. We had a deal. Partners for life, remember?

ISOLDE
When have I not kept my promises?

[Tristan kisses her forehead.]

ARTHUR
We need to keep moving. There'll be more coming soon.

TRISTAN
Then go. There's nothing stopping you.

[Arthur rolls his eyes.]

MERLIN
Come with us to Ealdor. You'll be safe there.

TRISTAN
I'm choosy about the company I keep.

ISOLDE
He saved my life, Tristan. Thank you.

TRISTAN
None of this would've happened if it wasn't for them.

[Isolde sighs at his stubbornness.]

ARTHUR
She's injured. She needs shelter and rest.

[Tristan sighs, looks at Arthur, then back at Isolde. Isolde nods.]

TRISTAN
Very well. But know this, Arthur Pendragon, I do this for her. You and your kind bring nothing but misery to this land.

--
[31:30, INT. KING'S PALACE, DUNGEONS - DAY]
[Morgana arrives outside Elyan, Gwaine, and Gaius's cell with a few Southrons.]

GAIUS
Have you come to gloat, my lady?

MORGANA
Is that any way to treat an old friend? I'll forgive you. After all, you're not looking your best.

SIR GWAINE
Can't you see he's starving? We all are.

MORGANA
Of course you are. You killed so many of my men. I'll have the kitchen prepare you a feast.

[Gwaine steps forward, but Elyan grabs his arm and shakes his head. Gwaine steps up to the gate more slowly, chains dragging as he walks. Morgana raises an eyebrow.]

SIR GWAINE
I think not of myself, but of Gaius. He can't survive long without food.

[Morgana smiles and steps close to the bars.]

MORGANA
Aw, Gwaine, so handsome, so selfless. Of course you shall have some supper...as long as you're prepared to sing for it.

[Morgana smirks and steps away as the guards open the door and drag him out.]

--
[32:51, EXT. WOODS, BORDER STREAM - DAY]

ARTHUR
This marks the border between Camelot and Lot's kingdom.

MERLIN
Ealdor lies at the far side of that valley. Maybe half a day on foot.

ARTHUR
We'll rest here for the night. There's no way Agravaine could've tracked us through those mountains.

MERLIN
I'll make a fire, we must keep Isolde warm.

[Tristan lets Isolde go as Merlin puts her arm around his neck and helps her to a campsite. Arthur holds out a water flask to Tristan.]

ARTHUR
Here, you should drink up.

[Tristan walks on.]

TRISTAN
I'll get my own.

--
[33:18, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Southrons shove Gwaine into the middle of a fight circle where Morgana stands. She smiles at their rowdy enjoyment.]

MORGANA
Behold! A knight of Camelot, famed as the greatest knights in five kingdoms.

[Morgana grabs Gwaine's face.]

MORGANA
Let's see if that fame's deserved, shall we?

[Gwaine scoffs with a smile and glares at her as she walks to sit her throne. A Southron brings out a couple of weapons.]

--
[33:57, EXT. WOODS, CAMPFIRE - NIGHT]
[Tristan and Isolde sleep in each other's arms, propped up against a tree trunk. Merlin and Arthur sit by the fire.]

ARTHUR
You knew. You knew Agravaine was betraying me.

MERLIN
I couldn't be sure. But then, I did have my suspicions.

ARTHUR
I feel like such a fool. I put such trust in him. All this time I was blind to his treachery as I was to Morgana's.

MERLIN
You were deceived, Arthur. That could happen to anyone.

ARTHUR
Yet it keeps happening to me. I cared about these people. I...don't understand. What have I don't wrong? Why do they hate me?

MERLIN
No, they don't hate you. They just...crave your power for themselves.

ARTHUR
Perhaps. Would they still want that power if I was the king my people deserve? Maybe Tristan's right--

MERLIN
Tristan was angry and...

[Merlin looks over at them sleeping.]

MERLIN
...afraid. He needed to blame someone, but it's not you that's to blame.

[Merlin looks at Tristan and shakes his head.]

ARTHUR
You seem very sure about all this.

MERLIN
All I know is that, for your many faults, you are honest and brave and truehearted, and one day you will be the greatest king this land has ever known.

[Arthur smiles a little.]

ARTHUR
Well...good to know I have the support of my servant at least.

MERLIN
I'm not alone. Believe me.

--
[35:48, INT. KING'S PALACE, COUNCIL CHAMBER - NIGHT]
[Gwaine fights one of the Southrons. Gwaine disarms one of the man's weapons.]

SIR GWAINE
That all you have? You promised a decent fight.

[The Southron pulls out another weapon from his belt and disarms Gwaine.]

SIR GWAINE
You're a very angry man, I can see that. Must be hard being so ugly. Children crying, women screaming. Come on.

[Completely unarmed, Gwaine knocks the Southron to the ground. The Southron gets up with one weapon left. Gwaine climbs on his back and punches him in the stomach. The Southron rams Gwaine into a column, but Gwaine gets off, punches the Southron and kicks him against the column. Gwaine picks up the mace and knocks him out with it in the now silent council chamber. Morgana stands, clapping slowly.]

MORGANA
Congratulations, Sir Knight. And admirable display. You've earned your reward.

[She indicates to someone and they toss a half-loaf of bread at his feet.]

MORGANA
But you're going to half to do better if you want some more.

[The Southrons chuckle darkly and Helios motions for two more warriors to step forward. The chanting begins again as Gwaine prepares for their attack.]

--
[37:36, EXT. EALDOR - DAY]
[Tristan supports Isolde and the four travellers enter the village. Hunith catches sight of Merlin and runs to hug him, huge smiles on their faces.]

MERLIN
Mother.

HUNITH
Welcome home, Merlin.

--
[38:06, INT. HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Merlin checks on Isolde sleeping on the bed while Tristan and Arthur eat.]

MERLIN
Cleaned the wound. There's no sign of infection. So as long as she gets plenty of rest, she'll be fine.

TRISTAN
Thank you, Merlin, for everything you've done for her.

[Merlin nods and leaves.]

ARTHUR
I'm sorry I brought this...misfortune upon you.

TRISTAN
Well, I may have lost my cargo, but I still have my beloved Isolde.

ARTHUR
Then you're richer than you know.

[Tristan considers Arthur and then looks at Isolde. Arthur watches them sadly.]

--
[38:52, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Agravaine and the Southrons sneak through the woods around Ealdor.]

AGRAVAINE
Spread out. Ensure the village is surrounded. No one must escape.

--
[39:08, EXT. EALDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin walks with his mother.]

HUNITH
It's good to have you home, Merlin.

MERLIN
I'm so sorry it's been so long.

HUNITH
I understand how it is, your life in Camelot. I worry about you sometimes. The dangers you must face.

MERLIN
Mother, I don't want you to worry.

HUNITH
I can't help it. It's what mothers do.

MERLIN
Well, we are safe here. All of us.

[Merlin looks at something.]

MERLIN
How's she been?

HUNITH
As well as can be expected, but, erm...a broken heart takes time to mend.

[They regard Gwen through a crack in the door as she stands there sadly. They continue walking. Gwen steps forward.]

--
[39:44, INT. EALDOR, HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Gwen dressed Arthur's wounded ribs. He wakes and realises someone's there. He lifts his head when he recognises her. She waits sadly for his response.]

ARTHUR (breathless)
Guinevere.

[Gwen smiles sadly.]

GWEN
Hello, Arthur.

[Arthur sits up on his elbows.]

ARTHUR
What are you doing here?

[Gwen shrugs her shoulders and shakes her head.]

GWEN
It's as good a place as any.

[Arthur stares at her.]

GWEN
I've missed you.

ARTHUR
And I you.

[Gwen smiles bitter sweetly. Arthur sits up and Gwen waits until he holds out arm to hug her. She leans forward and they embrace each other tightly.]

--
[40:51, EXT. EALDOR - NIGHT]
[Merlin and Hunith hear screams as they sit talking. Merlin stands and sees the Southrons' torches surrounding the village.]

MERLIN
Agravaine. He's found us.

--
[41:08, INT. EALDOR, HOUSE - NIGHT]
[Merlin, Arthur, Tristan, Isolde, and Guinevere watch as Agravaine and the Southrons harass the villagers. Arthur is dressed in chainmail and Gwen is wearing furs.]

TRISTAN
Any suggestions?

MERLIN
'Round the back.

[Merlin waits for them to leave, then his eyes glow and he sets a cart rolling toward Agravaine.]

MERLIN
Bæl on bryne!

[Merlin's eyes glow and inside the cart goes up in flames. Agravaine and the Southrons dash out of the way just in time, but Agravaine looks up to see Arthur's party escaping.]

AGRAVAINE
There! Get them!

--
[41:46, EXT. WOODS - NIGHT]
[Southrons chase Arthur's party through the woods. Tristan supports Isolde as they go.]

TO BE CONTINUED...