Nimueh stood over her stone basin in her cave, dropping some of her blood from her hand into the water of the basin.

"We Gar-Dena in geardagum theodcyninga thrym gefrunon hut tha aethelingas Ellen fremedom! Sythan aerest wearth feasceaft funden. Hyran scold thara, ofer hronrade Camelot, hyran scold. Hyran scolde thara, ofer hronrade Camelot, hyran scolde..." She chanted.

"I'm guessing she's using dark magic?" Lancelot asked.

Merlin nodded. "Very dark magic."

"What did she say?" Percival questioned.

"We have heard of the glory of the Spear-Danes, of the kings of the people, in the days of yore, and how those princes did deeds of glory. First he was found helpless. Obedience is owed, over the Camelot sea, obedience is owed. Obedience is owed, over the Camelot sea, obedience is owed." Merlin translated.

Mordred shuddered. "Such dark magic."

Nimueh then ran her fingers through the water of her basin. She began to chant, "Diegol cnytte, gewitte me yst, þa tacnian me yst þonne ieceþ sicle. Diegol cnytte, gewitte me yst, þa tacnian me yst þonne ieceþ sicle. Swilte ar ond calan, drædan morðor, to Camelot he cymþ!"

Merlin began translating before anyone could ask. "Illuminate the darkness, let me see through the rough water, mark the water when the pain is increased. Illuminate the darkness, let me see through the rough water, mark the water when the pain is increased. Kill the servant and may he become cold, fear the death, he comes to Camelot."

Arthur visibly flinched at "kill the servant," knowing all too well what happened in this memory.

"She is definitely using dark magic." The king said with a shudder.

An image of Merlin cleaning some of Arthur's armor appeared in Nimueh's basin, and then the water cleared. Nimueh picked something up out of the water, sticking it on the inside of a silver goblet. She then held it up — as if proposing a toast — and said darkly, "Merlin."

"You have terrible luck with sorcerers, Merlin." Arthur commented.

Merlin snorted. "Me?! You're the one with a sign above your head that says 'please attack me' to every sorcerer and magical creature within 150 miles!"

Arthur raised an eyebrow. "Name one."

"Mary Collins, Valiant, Nimueh, Aulfric and Sophia, Questing Beast, Morgause, Morgana, Lady Catrina, Tristan de Bois, Knights of Medhir, The Cailleach, the Dorocha, Kilgharrah..." Merlin listed off instantly.

Arthur blushed. He didn't say anything, because he knew Merlin was inevitably right.

Merlin smirked in satisfactory. "Clotpole."

In Camelot, Lord Bayard of Mercia and his party arrive. Uther, Arthur, and the knights of Camelot meet with Bayard and his knights in the throne room. The tension was very thick between Uther and Bayard was unbearable.

"That was intense," Gwen reminisced.

Arthur nodded. "Not nearly as tense as the banquet," he murmured.

Uther and Bayard looked at each other for a moment before Uther began, "Camelot welcomes you, Lord Bayard of Mercia. The treaty we sign today marks an end to war and a beginning to a new friendship between our people."

Nimueh was spotted in the background as a serving girl in Bayard's party, while in the forefront, Bayard and Uther grasped arms. Both parties applauded while Nimueh stared down Merlin, who was in the background close to Arthur.

"She's got it in for you, Merlin." Gwaine stated.

"What was she going to do?" Mordred asked.

"You'll see." Eleanor spoke from her seat next to Lancelot. "No spoilers," she warned Merlin, Arthur, Gwen, and Leon.

In one of the castle hallways, Merlin passed Gaius while carrying a heavy bag.

"Why do I always get landed with the donkey work?" Merlin complained.

"That's your job. You're a servant," Arthur answered.

Gaius laughed and stopped in the hallway. "You're a servant, Merlin. It's what you do."

"My arms will be a foot longer by the time I get this lot inside." Merlin whined, slightly shrugging his shoulders.

"It's character building," Gaius said, still laughing gently. "As the old proverb says, hard work breeds... a harder soul."

"He just made that up. That's not even a proverb!" Eleanor claimed.

Percival raised an eyebrow. "How do you know that?"

Eleanor smiled innocently. "I do a lot of reading in my spare time. I've read all the proverbs at least 20 times."

Merlin gave his mentor an unbelieving look. "There is no way that's a proverb. You just made that up," Merlin stated incredulously.

"No I didn't," Gaius denied.

Merlin chuckled. "Oh yes, he definitely made that up."

Nimueh passed through, carrying a load of fabric and pillows. As she passed, she faked a fall right in front of Merlin.

"That's a fake fall," Leon pointed out.

"Sorry," Nimueh said sweetly, gathering up the materials that had fallen.

"It's alright." Merlin said as he exchanged looks with Gaius.

"Excuse me," Nimueh spoke, sounding like the servant she was pretending to be.

"She may be evil, but she is a very good actress," Elyan commented.

"Let me give you a hand with that." Merlin said, crouching down to help pick up some of her things.

When Merlin bent down, he caught Nimueh's eye. They both stood up, still staring at one another. Merlin had a slight smile on his face, distracted by the beautiful girl before him.

"Aww! How cute! Merlin has a crush on the deadly sorceress!" Gwaine teased.

Merlin blushed. "I did not!"

Lancelot chuckled. "Yes, you did!"

"Hi. I'm Merlin." Merlin introduced, offering his hand, still wearing that smile.

Merlin shook Nimueh's hand.

"Cara," Nimueh said. "You're Arthur's servant. That must be such an honor."

"Oh, yeah. It is. Well, you know, someone has to keep the place running," Merlin said highly. Gaius crossed his arms and gave his ward a pointed look from behind Cara.

Arthur sniggered at the thought of Merlin being in charge.

"Thank you, Merlin." Nimueh thanked, nodding to the pillow Merlin was still holding.

"Hmm?" Merlin asked, still distracted.

Merlin then looked down at the pillow that he'd picked up for her.

"Oh, right. Yeah. Er, no problem," he stuttered, placing the pillow on top of the pile of fabrics that Nimueh was holding.

Percival chuckled. "You had no idea what to do when a pretty girl had her attention on you."

Merlin only smiled slightly, Freya at the forefront of his mind. He decided not to reply to Percival, knowing that the others would see everything unfold.

"It was nice meeting you." Nimueh said. She then turned and began walking away, and Merlin watched as she left.

"Shouldn't you be busy running the place?" Gaius questioned wryly with a laugh.

Everyone laughed.

Nimueh snuck through the halls and past a guard. She arrived at Bayard's guest quarters, and checked the doors to see that they were locked. Once she checked around her in the hallway, Nimueh chanted, "Alysan duru ronne."

"Open uninterrupted the door." Eleanor translated. "It's an odd spell to unlock a door."

Merlin shrugged. "She was a High Priestess of the Old Religion; I'm sure she had her reasons to use that spell."

The door opened with a creak, and Nimueh walked into the empty room. She closed the door behind her, and then opened a box with two silver goblets inside. She replaced the smaller goblet with an identical one that she'd enchanted.

Gwaine held a look of confusion. "If she's after Merlin, then why is she meddling with the goblet?"

"You'll see." Eleanor answered cryptically.

In Arthur's chambers, Merlin had laid out Arthur's clothes for the feast. He reeled back and covered his face, repulsed by the horrid smell.

There were sniggers here and there from the knights, but Arthur did not attempt to contain his laughter.

"When's the last time these were cleaned?" Merlin asked, trying to shake the clothes.

Arthur thought for a moment before he replied, "Last year some time. Before the feast of Beltane."

"Did it end in a food fight?" Merlin questioned as he helped Arthur into the jacket.

"Don't all feasts?" Arthur inquired.

Gwaine chuckled. "I'm guessing noblemen are messy eaters?"

"You're a messy eater, Gwaine." Leon reminded.

"I am not!" Gwaine pouted.

Eleanor cut in. "Gentlemen, as much as I love your banter... we do have a memory to watch."

"I wouldn't know. The airs and graces of the court are a mystery to me," Merlin answered as he fiddled with the jacket.

"Not tonight they won't be."

Merlin perked up. "I'm gonna be at the banquet?"

"That was my first banquet in Camelot. I'd worked at celebrations in the castle, but I had never been to an actual banquet." Merlin explained.

"Not quite. You'll be there to make sure my cup doesn't run dry." Arthur informed, taking the jacket off. "If I have to sit through Bayard's boring speeches, I don't see why you should get out of it."

"You were the prince; you had to sit through his speeches. And you still have to sit through speeches now that you're king," Gwen reminded her husband.

Arthur nodded. "I know. But I hated having to sit through speeches in the past."

Arthur shoved the jacket at Merlin. "Be sure to polish the buttons," he told his manservant. "Do you want to see what you'll be wearing tonight?" The prince asked as he disappeared behind a changing screen.

Merlin looked down at his attire. "Won't this do?"

Arthur smirked at Merlin, who glared at the king.

This ought to be good.

Arthur shook his head. "No. Tonight, you'll be wearing the official ceremonial robes of the servants of Camelot." Disappearing behind the changing screen once more, Arthur emerged with clothing. He held them up for Merlin to see.

"You can't be serious," Merlin deadpanned.

In the Hall of Ceremonies, Bayard signed the treaty. Merlin stood at the back, wearing a red cape that complimented the red feathered hat on his head. Gwen, standing next to Merlin, chuckled at his hat.

The knights burst out in fits of laughter seeing Merlin in his attire.

"Bloody hell! That might be the funniest thing I've seen all day," Gwaine commented.

Eleanor held a knowing smirk on her face. She could only imagine the knight's reaction to seeing Arthur with donkey ears and a tail.

"Nice hat." Gwen giggled.

"Thanks," Merlin nodded, making the feathers on his hat bob. Arthur looked back at Merlin and smirked, raising a blonde eyebrow in amusement.

Merlin caught Nimueh's eye and took the hat off, trying desperately to tame his unruly hair.

Lancelot chuckled at his close friend. "You were trying your best to impress the deadly sorceress."

Merlin blushed a bit out of embarrassment, but a smile still played on his lips.

Gwen took notice of his gaze, and she was not pleased. "She's pretty, isn't she? For a handmaiden."

Merlin had a smile on his face. "She's pretty for a princess, let alone a handmaiden." His eyes still lingered on Nimueh.

"Mmm," Gwen said halfheartedly.

Gwaine raised an eyebrow and turned to the queen. "I sense jealousy."

Arthur gave Gwaine a warning look, who ignored it, as usual.

"I was extremely jealous," Gwen admitted with a heartfelt chuckle.

Uther finished signing the treaty before he grasped arms with Bayard. The crowd stood to their feet and applauded. Gwen left her spot next to Merlin to go and speak to Gaius.

"People of Camelot," Bayard began, "for a great many years we have been mortal enemies, and the blood of our men stains the ground from the walls of Camelot to the gates of Mercia. And though we remember those who have died, we must not allow any more to join them."

A serving girl hurried forwards and handed Bayard a wooden chest that contained the goblets.

"As a symbol of our goodwill, and of our newfound friendship, I present these ceremonial goblets to you, Uther, and to your son, Arthur, in the hope that our friendship may last."

Nimueh approached Merlin with fake anxiety in her voice. "Merlin, I need to speak to you."

Percival looked impressed. "She knows how to act."

"The wounds we received in battle..." Bayard continued his speech but Merlin wasn't listening.

Merlin frowned at Nimueh. "What is it?"

Nimueh looked around and shook her head. "Not here, please." She said with fake urgency. "I don't know who else to tell."

Merlin nodded and left with Nimueh. Gaius watched them leave with a small frown.

Arthur, Merlin, Gwen, and Leon watched with anxiety.

Gwaine, Mordred, Lancelot, Elyan, and Percival watched with confusion.

Eleanor watched curiously.

"Tonight we toast a new beginning for our peoples. We look towards a future free from the toils of war." The crowd applauded his speech.

Nimueh and Merlin talked in the corridor outside the banquet hall. "It wasn't until I saw him give the goblet to Arthur that I realized..." She trailed off looking anxious.

"Whoa, slow down. Start from the beginning." Merlin tried to calm her down.

Nimueh took a deep breath. "Two days ago, I was bringing Bayard his evening meal. We're supposed to knock. He didn't expect me to walk in..."

"How did she even get into Bayard's party?" Arthur asked.

Merlin shrugged. "She could've done a number of things. Bribery, enchantments, or she just plainly snuck in. We'll never know," he replied.

There were questioning looks, but the warlock shrugged them off, deciding to focus on the memory.

Merlin frowned. "So, what are you trying to say?"

"If he knows I said anything, he will kill me."

Merlin grabbed her hand and spoke reassuringly. "I would not let that happen to you, I promise. Please tell me what you saw."

"Despite her malicious intentions, I still think it was kind of you to protect someone you didn't even know," Gwen told her best friend.

"Bayard is no friend of Camelot. He craves the kingdom for himself." Nimueh replied.

"Cara... tell me. What has Bayard done with the goblet?" Merlin pressed.

"He believes that if he kills Arthur, Uther's spirit will be broken and Camelot will fall."

"What has he done with the goblet?" Merlin questioned.

"I saw him putting something in it." She hesitated.

"What?"

Nimueh shook her head. "I shouldn't! He'll kill me!"

"Please, tell me! Was it poison?"

Nimueh nodded slowly, reluctant to actually say it out loud. Merlin ran back to the hall, trying to work out how to save Arthur. Nimueh watched him leave with a smug expression.

"And she let her true colors show." Leon stated.

Bayard grabbed his own goblet and raised it towards Uther. "And may the differences from our past remain there. To your health, Uther."

Everyone stood up to toast, all watching the two royals carefully. Bayard inclined his head towards each royal in turn. "Arthur."

Arthur raised the goblet he had been given, unaware of the poison within it.

Bayard smirked. "The Lady Morgana." She nodded and returned the smile, raising her goblet.

Arthur started to look impatient.

Bayard nodded at Uther. "To the people of Camelot."

Everyone started to drink, but are interupted by Uther. "And to the fallen warriors on both sides."

He and Bayard nodded at each other and everyone started to drink from their goblets.

Merlin ran into the hall, and ran straight towards Arthur. "Stop! It's poisoned! Don't drink it!"

"And here comes Merlin to save the day!" Gwaine cheered.

He grabbed Arthur's goblet.

Uther scowled at Merlin. "What?"

"Merlin, what are you doing?" Arthur gave Merlin a warning glare.

"Saving your life! What's it look like I'm doing?"

"Bayard laced Arthur's goblet with poison." Merlin revealed to everyone.

Bayard glared at Merlin and practically jumped out of his seat. "This is an outrage!"

Bayard and his men drew their swords, ready to defend their King. The Knights of Camelot did the same.

Uther growled. "Order your men to put down their swords." The guards rush in to Uther's aid. "You are outnumbered."

"I will not allow this insult to go unchallenged!"

Uther turned towards Merlin. "On what grounds do you base this accusation?"

Arthur frowned. "I'll handle this." He headed around the table and stood in front of Merlin. "Merlin, you idiot. Have we been at the sloe gin again?" He muttered, hoping Merlin would play along.

"As if you need to continue going to the tavern," Arthur scoffed.

Merlin rolled his eyes. "Why is it you always assume I've been to the tavern?"

Gwaine frowned. "Merlin's never at the tavern... ever."

Arthur grabbed the goblet from Merlin.

Uther ignored Arthur. "Unless you want to be strung up, you will tell me why you think why you think it's poisoned now."

Elyan was less than happy. "So he would've punished you for saving Arthur's life?"

"Had I been wrong, he most definitely would've killed me," Merlin replied.

"He was seen lacing it."

Uthur frowned "By whom?"

"I can't say." He muttered.

Bayard shook his head at Uther, growing impatient. "I won't listen to this anymore."

"Pass me the goblet." Uther commanded.

Arthur handed him the goblet.

Uther debated for a couple of seconds before turning towards Bayard. "If you're telling the truth..."

"I am."

"Then you have nothing to fear, do you?" Uther challenged, raising his eyebrows.

Bayard sheathed his sword and reached for the goblet.

"Bayard had no part in this, correct?" Percival asked Eleanor.

"That's right; he was nothing but a pawn," Eleanor replied.

"No. If this does prove to be poisoned, I want the pleasure of killing you myself." Uther said darkly.

Eleanor shuddered. "I don't understand why someone would take pleasure from killing."

Merlin rubbed the girl's shoulder gently. It was a way of keeping her calm.

Bayard snorted.

Uther held the goblet up to Merlin. "He'll drink it."

"But if it is poisoned, he'll die!" Arthur protested.

Lancelot frowned. "It sounds like he's trying to punish you for trying to save Arthur."

"Uther thought I was idiot, and he was under the impression that Arthur's goblet was fine. But he couldn't risk Arthur's life on the chance that it actually was poisoned," Merlin told his friend.

Uther shrugged. "Then we'll know he was telling the truth."

"And what if he lives?" Bayard called out.

Uther bowed his head respectfully. "Then you have my apologies, and you can do with him as you will."

Gaius came to Merlin's defense. "Uther, please, he's just a boy! He doesn't know what he's saying!"

"Then you should've schooled him better." Uther snarled.

Eleanor crossed her arms over her chest. "Gaius schooled Merlin perfectly well." She defended.

Arthur, Gwen, and the knights could see a certain familiarity in Eleanor, but no one could quite put a finger on it.

Arthur started to get flustered. "Merlin, apologize. This is a mistake. I'll drink it."

Merlin gave Arthur a small smile and reassured him. "No, no, no, no, no. It's-it's alright."

"There's no way in hell I would've let you drink poison." Merlin stated.

Merlin toasted to Bayard and Arthur, then he drank from the goblet as Nimueh watched with a small smile. Gwen took a few steps forward towards Merlin in anxiety.

Merlin stared at the cup, and then back to Bayard and Uther. "It's fine." He murmured.

The knights felt relieved.

Arthur, Gwen, Leon and Merlin tensed up. They knew what was coming.

Uther rolled his eyes and gave Bayard an apologetic glance. "He's all yours."

Gwen sighed in relief. Merlin started to grab at his throat clearly uncomfortable. After a couple more seconds, he started to choke and he fell to the ground.

"No!" Shouted the knights.

Gwen leaned into Arthur's embrace for comfort. Arthur held his wife as he watched with a pained expression.

Merlin looked at the memory with curiosity. He didn't know what he'd done whilst unconscious; this would be interesting.

Eleanor's posture was rigid, her face remaining stoic. Poor Father. How could someone even think about doing something so heinous to him?!

"It's poisoned. Guards seize him!" Uther yelled.

Arthur crouched over Merlin. Nimueh grinned and snuck out of the hall. Gaius and Gwen also crouched over Merlin.

Gaius tapped Merlin's cheek, trying to wake him up. "Merlin. Can you hear me?"

Merlin gave no response.

Gaius looked at Arthur and Gwen. "We have to get him back to my chambers. Bring the goblet. I need to identify the poison."

Arthur nodded and picked up Merlin. Gwen grabbed the goblet and followed Arthur and Gaius.

"I can't believe your father let you do that," Leon told the king.

Arthur sighed. "I don't think he even noticed."

Looking at Past Merlin, Arthur felt a knot of uneasiness settle into his stomach. Though it had happened years ago — and Merlin eventually recovered — he still had those lingering night terrors about that day. The night terrors became worse after the Dorocha attack; that fateful day when Arthur believed he had lost his closest friend.

While Arthur would not admit it aloud, he did care for Merlin deeply. Merlin was a brother to him, and Arthur couldn't bear the thought of anyone wanting to bring harm to the warlock.

While lost in his own thoughts, Arthur began to have an epiphany of sorts. He realized just how much he needed Merlin, and how much Merlin needed him.

They were, after all, two sides of the same coin.

Arthur ran into Gaius's chambers, with Merlin in his arms. Gwen and Gaius were close behind him.

"Lay him on the bed quickly; he's struggling to breathe. Gwen, fetch me some water and a towel." Gaius instructed.

"Is he gonna be alright?" Arthur questioned anxiously as he laid Merlin down on the table.

Merlin placed a hand over his heart. "You do care."

Arthur shot his manservant a smile. "Of course I care, you clotpole."

"Oi! That's my word!"

Gaius touched Merlin's brow. "He's burning up."

"You can cure him, can't you, Gaius?" Gwen asked, clearly upset.

Gaius sighed. "I won't know until I can identify the poison. Pass me the goblet."

Gwen handed him the goblet.

Gaius inspected the goblet and frowned. "Ah. There's something stuck on the inside."

"What is it?"

"It looks like a flower petal of some kind." Gaius replied as he pulled it out.

"His brow's on fire." Gwen called out nervously. She grabbed a rag and soaked it in some water and started to tend to him, dabbing at his brow.

"Keep him cool; it'll help control his fever." Gaius instructed. He hurried over to his bookshelf and pulled out a large book. He flipped through the pages until he found a picture of a flower that looked similar to the petal in his hand.

"Ah. The petal comes from the Mortaeus flower. It says here that someone poisoned by the Mortaeus can only be saved by a potion made from the leaf of the very same flower. It can only be found in the caves deep beneath the Forest of Balor. The flower grows on the roots of the Mortaeus tree."

"That's not particularly friendly." Arthur muttered, seeing a picture of a deadly creature.

"Looks about as friendly as a serket," Merlin commented.

"A Cockatrice. It guards the forest. Its venom is potent. A single drop would mean certain death. Few who have crossed the Mountains of Isgaard in search of the Mortaeus flower have made it back alive." Gaius explained.

"Sounds like fun." Arthur sighed and stood up.

"Only you would say that a deadly quest 'sounds like fun.' Honestly, you're a beacon for danger," Merlin muttered under his breath.

Gaius looked at Arthur with a knowing expression. "Arthur, it's too dangerous."

Leon chuckled. "It's never stopped him before."

Arthur looked at Merlin, then back at Gaius. "If I don't get the antidote, what happens to Merlin?"

"The Mortaeus induces a slow and painful death. He may hold out for four, maybe five days, but not for much longer. Eventually he will die." Gaius replied reluctantly.

Arthur gazed back over to Merlin, who was being tended to by Gwen. His lips were pressed into a thin line.

Gwen noticed Past Arthur's look. "You're going to talk to Uther."

Arthur nodded. "Yes." He replied dejectedly.

"It won't work," Merlin added.

"I know," Arthur replied in the same tone.

The scene changed to Nimueh, who was smirking as she walked down a castle corridor. She mounted a horse, and rode off from the castle.

"She had an exit strategy," Lancelot observed.

The scene changed to Morgana's chambers.

Gwen entered looking flustered. "My Lady, I am so sorry I haven't been here to attend to you."

Morgana gave Gwen a soft smile. "Don't worry, I'm alright. How's Merlin?"

Merlin sighed. "She cared about me."

"We all did," Gwen added.

"If Arthur comes back with the antidote in time, he'll be fine."

"Then he'll be fine." Morgana reassured.

Gwen sighed, clearly worried.

Morgana noticed Gwen's anxiety. "You should be with him. I'll manage. I know what he means to you. Go."

Elyan raised an eyebrow at Gwen. "Morgana knew about your feelings for Merlin?"

Gwen blushed. "I wasn't very subtle about it, Elyan."

Gwen curtsied and gave Morgana a grateful smile. "Thank you."

The scene changed to Arthur walking with Uther in the corridors, Arthur was dressed in chainmail.

Uther scowled. "What's the point of having people to taste for you if you're going to get yourself killed anyway?"

"I won't fail, no matter what you think."

"Arthur, you are my only son and heir. I can't risk losing you for the sake of some serving boy."

"Oh, because his life's worthless?" Arthur challenged.

"No, because it's worth less than yours." Uther replied.

Arthur shook his head disapprovingly. "He was wrong. All lives of people have worth, no matter what their social class is. What determines your worth is the man or woman you become, not who you were born as."

"I can save him. Let me take some men — " Arthur protested but he was cut off by Uther.

"No."

"We'll find the antidote and bring it back." He reasoned.

Uther muttered. "No."

"Why not?!" Arthur yelled.

"Because one day I will be dead and Camelot will need a king. I'm not going to let you jeopardize the future of this kingdom over some fool's errand." Uther growled.

Arthur frowned "It's not a fool's errand. Gaius says that if we can get the antidote..."

Uther scoffed. "Oh, Gaius says? That's exactly what makes it so."

"I thought they were friends?" Percival said.

"They were. But Uther never trusted Gaius' judgments about me." Merlin answered.

Arthur's voice took on a more pleading edge. "Please, Father. He saved my life. I can't stand by and watch him die."

"Then don't look. This boy won't be the last to die on your behalf. You're going to be King. It's something you'll have to get used to." Uther growled.

Arthur shook his head. "I can't accept that."

"Even now, I refuse to accept it," Arthur stated.

"That is one of many reasons why you are, and always will be, a far better king than your father could've ever thought of being." Gwen said gently.

"You're not going." Uther replied.

Arthur refused to back down. "You can't stop me."

"Damn it, Arthur, that's an end to it! You're not leaving this castle tonight."

Gwaine smirked. "I sense some rebellious behavior coming soon."

The scene changed to Arthur's chambers.

Arthur stormed in, tossed his sword onto the table, and leaned over the fireplace.

Morgana entered with a smirk. "Say what you like about the food, but you can't beat our feasts for entertainment."

"What exactly was she referring to when she said entertainment?" Mordred asked.

Arthur shrugged. "Anything that didn't ordinarily happen at feasts, I suppose."

Arthur smiled apologetically. "Morgana, I'm sorry, I should have made sure you were alright."

Morgana shrugged. "Disappointed actually. I was looking forward to clumping a couple around the head with a ladle."

"I'm sure the guards could have handled Bayard and his men."

She grinned. "Yeah, but why let the boys have all the fun?"

Arthur frowned disapprovingly. "Morgana, you shouldn't get involved. It's dangerous."

"Spare me the lecture, I've already had it from Uther." She snapped.

Arthur sighed. "If it's any consolation, you weren't the only one."

"Not that I listen to him. Sometimes you've got to do what you think is right, and damn the consequences." She crossed her arms over her chest.

Lancelot smiled. "I know where she's going with this."

"You think I should go?"

Morgana shrugged. "It doesn't matter what I think."

"If I don't make it back, who will be the next king of Camelot? There's more than just my life at stake." He muttered, echoing Uther's words.

Morgana raised her eyebrows. "And what kind of king would Camelot want? One that would risk his life to save that of a lowly servant?"

She grabbed his sword and offered it to him. "Or one who does what his father tells him to?"

Gwen smiled fondly. "You're a much better king than your father, Arthur."

Arthur rode across the drawbridge.

The scene changed to later that night, the palace guards stationed outside the drawbridge.

One of the guards noticed a figure riding towards them. "Halt!"

Arthur rode past the guards and out of Camelot. Nimueh watched from her stone basin.

The next morning Gwen, Gaius and an uncouncious Merlin were in the physician's chambers.

Gwen was tending to Merlin whilst Gaius worked on the remedy.

Gwen felt Merlin's brow and frowned. "He's getting hotter."

Eleanor chuckled at Gwen's choice of words.

"Liffrea, wuldres wealdend, woroldare forgeaf." Merlin murmured.

"Did you know you could speak Druid?" Mordred asked.

Merlin shrugged. "I had no idea I'd said that. I was dying."

"What exactly did you say?" Gwen inquired.

"The Lord of wonder endowed him with world's renown," Merlin translated.

"Perhaps you were talking about your destiny?" Eleanor suggested.

Merlin shrugged. "Maybe. I don't know."

Gwen looked to Gaius, clearly confused. "What language is that?"

"None. The fever's taken hold. None of those words are his own." Gaius lied, thankful Gwen believed his excuse.

He checked Merlin's pulse. "His pulse is weaker." Gaius continued to examine Merlin and he found a large circular rash on Merlin's arm.

Gwen gasped. "What is it?" She eyed the rash with fear.

"That can't be right." Gaius shook his head and re-examined the rash.

He turned to meet Gwen's gaze and muttered, "The rash is not supposed to appear until the final stage."

Gwen bit her lip anxiously. "What does that mean?"

Gaius turned and checked his book with his magnifying glass. "It says here that 'once a rash appears, death will follow within two days.'"

"He had four days when I left!" Arthur remembered.

Gwen gently patted Arthur's shoulder. "Arthur, we found out after you had left."

Gwen frowned. "You said he had four days."

"Something's increased the flower's potency. It warns that 'the effect of the Mortaeus will be more rapid if an enchantment is used during the flower's preparation.'" Gaius let out a heavy sigh.

"An enchantment? But Bayard's no sorcerer."

Gaius replied with a grave expression. "No, he isn't."

"Then who did this?" Gwen questioned.

"That would be the creepy sorceress that wants to kill Merlin," Gwaine offered.

Gaius started to mutter to himself. "It can't have been. She wouldn't dare come here. Unless..."

"Unless what?" Gwen pressed, deciding to ignore his ramblings.

Gaius spun around quickly. "What happened to that girl?"

"Which girl?"

"Just before Merlin burst into the hall one of Bayard's serving girls took him outside." Gaius reminded her.

Gwen nodded. "She had dark hair," then as an afterthought she added, "very beautiful." Gwen failed to hide the hint of envy she felt for the girl.

"Somebody's jealous," Gwaine smirked.

"Find her. Quickly." Gaius ordered.

Merlin started to mutter again. "Arthur... swa..."

Gwen hurried down to the dungeons. After the more recent events, she hated going down there, but unable to ignore the pang of sympathy she felt for some of the people locked in the cells. She knew what it was like and if she never saw the inside of a cell again, it would be too soon.

She checked each cell that contained Bayard's servants, and was unable to find Nimueh amongst them.

Gwen shook her head. "She'd already left Camelot."

The scene changed to Morgana and Uther in Morgana's chambers.

Uther was pacing the room with an anxious and angry expression whilst Morgana watched him with an amused smirk.

"I expressly ordered Arthur not to go!" Uther yelled.

Morgana rolled her eyes "I'd say it worked like a charm, too," she replied sarcastically.

Uther turned his harsh gaze onto Morgana, clearly not in the mood. "Not another word!"

Morgana ignored Uther and replied with a teasing smile, "My lips are sealed."

"I should've put him under lock and key." Uther mumbled.

"That never would've stopped Arthur," Leon spoke up.

"You can't chain him up every time he disagrees with you." She muttered.

Uther's temper flared. "Just you watch me! I will not be disobeyed! Especially by my own son!"

"No. Of course you won't." Morgana muttered sarcastically as she sat down at her desk and moved to write.

"You knew about this, didn't you? Morgana...don't lie to me."

Seeing no point to lie she replied, "Arthur's old enough to make decisions for himself."

Uther shook his head. "He's just a boy."

"Have you seen your son recently? You have to let him make his own mind up." She replied with a raised eyebrow.

Arthur nodded in agreement with Past Morgana's statement. Had Uther allowed his son to make his own mind up, things probably would've been a bit smoother between the father and son.

Uther frowned. "Even if it means letting him go to his death?"

Arthur rode through the mountains, Nimueh watching him from her stone basin. Once he was near the caves, she smirked and put her plan into action.

She pulled up her hood and left the cave.

The scene changed to the physician's chambers, Merlin was stirring restlessly whilst Gaius inspected his rash.

Gwen entered the room, returning from her search of the dungeons.

Gaius sighed, "Let me guess, she wasn't there."

"No one has seen her since the banquet." Gwen frowned. "Who is she?"

Gaius obviously reluctant to tell Gwen the truth, gave her a cryptic answer. "Not who she claims to be."

"But you know, don't you?" Gwen pressed.

Gaius frowned. "Cara. Though, that's not her name. Not her real name, anyway," he replied, once again avoiding the truth.

Gwen was growing tired of Gaius's cryptic answers. "Then who is she?"

"Now someone else knew what I felt like when talking to Kilgharrah," Merlin commented.

Gaius reluctantly replied, "A powerful sorceress."

"Well, we should tell Uther. Maybe he could send riders out after her."

Gaius let out a humourless chuckle. "No, she'll be long gone. It's impossible to know where, though." Then he muttered, "Oh no."

"What?"

Gaius's eyes went wide as a feeling of dread overwhelmed him. "She knows the only place an antidote can be found is the Forest of Balor. Arthur could be walking into a trap."

Percival sighed. "Oh, how the plot thickens."

Merlin started to toss and turn restlessly, mumbling, "Arthur."

Arthur led his horse through the forest, and he frowned when he heard a noise.

"Arthur — swa sceal geong — guma gode — gewyrcean," Merlin mumbled.

"Arthur — so becomes it a youth to quit him well," Eleanor translated.

Arthur raised a blonde eyebrow towards Merlin. "Were you referring to when I stood up to my father?"

"I have no idea. I. Was. Dying." Merlin answered.

He headed towards the source. Nimueh was sat on a log, crying and apparently covered in bruises.

Eleanor allowed a very dangerous growl to escape her lips. The others briefly looked in her direction, unaware that she was feeling so much hatred towards this sorceress.

"Hello? Are you alright?" Arthur asked gently, hoping not to scare the already 'distressed' girl.

The Cockatrice had been hiding in the bushes whilst Arthur approached. It let out a roar and got ready to attack Arthur.

"Stay back." Arthur told Nimueh, he drew his sword and eyed up the beast.

Nimueh smiled to herself as Arthur got ready to face the beast.

"She's enjoying herself a little too much." Mordred said.

The Cockatrice lunged, and Arthur rolled under it as it jumped, then threw his sword, surprising both the beast and Nimueh, killing it.

Nimueh grimaced. Arthur looked at her with a concerned expression, hoping that she was okay. She got up and backed away in pretend fear.

"She's still evil, but a damn good actress." Gwaine input.

Arthur raised his hands to show he wasn't a threat. When she relaxed slightly, he approached her. "It's alright. I'm not going to hurt you. Who did that to you?" Arthur pointed to her bruises.

Nimueh took on a more frightened expression. "My master. I ran away from him, but then I got lost. Please don't leave me."

"I won't. I'm not going to." Arthur reassured her.

Nimueh looked hopeful for a second. "You can take me away from here?"

"Not yet. There's something I have to do first." Arthur turned towards the cave mouth.

"Why have you come to the caves?" Nimueh questioned.

"I'm looking for something. It can only be found here." Arthur replied.

Nimueh hesitated before speaking. "What is it? I know this place; I could help you."

Eleanor raised her eyebrow in a Gaius-like fashion, looking over at Arthur. "She was lost, and yet, she knew the area. That didn't sound the least bit suspicious to you?"

Arthur just gave Eleanor a look. "I had my mind on saving a certain servant of mine."

"It's a type of flower that only grows inside the cave. It's very rare."

Nimueh spoke up again, sounding more confident, "The Mortaeus flower? I know where they are. I'll show you."

"She knew what flower you were looking for, too! Eleanor's right — how did that not raise a red flag with you?" Gwaine questioned Arthur.

Arthur nodded and picked up a torch. He and Nimueh entered the caves.

The scene changed back to the physician's chambers.

Merlin was lying on the bed, muttering to himself whilst Gwen watched him with a worried expression as she tried to cool him down.

"Arthur, it...it's a trap. It's a trap."

Gwen frowned and turned to Gaius. "His fever's getting worse, isn't it?"

"The poison's setting in." Gaius solemnly told her, although he didn't want to admit defeat.

"How were you able to know that it was a trap? You were dying," Elyan said to Merlin.

Merlin sighed. "It's quite possible that my magic was telling me that Arthur was in danger. Our destinies have been linked together since the dawn of time; I am his protector."

"Hine on ylde eft gewunigen wilgesiþas, þonne wig cume." Merlin chanted.

"What did you say then?" Gwen curiously asked. She remembered bits and pieces of what Merlin had said while poisoned, but she had thought his ramblings were a product of his fevered mind.

"That to aid him, aged, in after days come warriors willing, should war draw nigh." The warlock answered.

Eleanor thought for a second. "I still think you're talking about your destiny."

Merlin shrugged. "Perhaps."

Gaius eyed the boy nervously, "Shh..." He turned to Gwen. "Could you fetch me some more Wolfbane?"

Gwen nodded. "Yes, of course," she hurried off to find the herb.

Gaius watched Merlin. "Merlin, you must fight it."

Lancelot laughed. "As if you could fight having magic."

Nimueh and Arthur turned a corner in the caves and came to a ledge.

Nimueh pointed to a crack in the wall opposite the ledge. There was a large gap with a long drop between them and the flower.

"There they are."

Arthur stepped protectively in front of Nimueh and looked down at the drop. "Keep back from the edge. Don't worry. We'll be out of here soon."

Arthur winced. This next part wasn't so pleasing to remember.

Nimueh smirked and stared to chant, "Eorthe, lyft, fyr, waeter, hiersumie me." The cave began to shake. Nimueh continued to chant, "He thaes frofre gebad, weox under wolcnum, weorthmyndum thah. Eorthe ac stanas hiersumie me. Ic can stanas tobrytan..."

"Earth, air, fire, water, obey me. Therefore the spirit of consolation, he awaited, became powerful under the flowering tree, acquired glory. Stones, obey me. I have the knowledge to break them into pieces." Merlin translated.

"What are you doing?!" Arthur yelled, clearly shocked.

Nimueh finished her chant, "...hiersumie me."

"Obey me," Mordred translated.

Merlin sighed. "I wouldn't tell the elements to obey me; I'd ask them to help me."

"Arthur, how in the world did you survive the caves?" Leon asked.

Arthur looked at his knight. "I would've been dead had it not been for that light."

"What light?" Percival questioned.

Eleanor gave Arthur a sideways look. "You'll see."

Arthur dropped his torch as the rocks fell out beneath him. he jumped for the opposite ledge and caught onto it with his hand.

Nimueh tutted, "I expected so much more."

"Who are you?!"

Nimueh smirked. "The last face you'll ever see."

A giant spider came out of the darkness.

"It seems we have a visitor." She smiled and gestured to their 'visitor.'

Arthur edged away from the spider and drew his sword, after a couple of attempts he managed to stab and kill the spider whilst dangling from the ledge.

Gwaine patted Arthur on the shoulder. "Well done."

Nimueh gave Arthur an approving nod. "Very good. But he won't be the last. I'll let his friends finish you off, Arthur Pendragon. It's not your destiny to die at my hand."

Merlin tensed, knowing what and who she meant.

Arthur looked confused. "Was she a seer, like Morgana?"

"She had prophetic powers, but it's unclear how strong they were." Merlin answered. "But no, she wasn't a seer."

Nimieh left Arthur in the cave. She took the torch with her so she left him alone in the dark.

Arthur yelled into the darkness, "Who are you?!"

The scene switched back to the physician's chambers.

Merlin is muttering to himself again and Gaius is tending to him. "Arthur. It's too dark. Too dark. Fromum feohgiftum on fæder bearme. Fromum feohgiftum."

"By gifts of treasure, and under his father's protection..." Mordred translated.

Gaius noticed something glowing. "Merlin," he cursed and pulled down the blanket revealling a small ball of glowing light in Merlin's palm.

Arthur's eyes widened in realization. "It was you! This entire time, it was you!" Then he turned his attention to Merlin, who looked stunned. "How is that possible? You were... I was..."

Arthur couldn't form a sentence.

"Careful, Princess. Let's not break that royal brain of yours," Gwaine teased.

"You could actually see me, you knew what I needed, and you knew I was in trouble." Arthur told Merlin. "How?"

Merlin looked just as stunned as the rest of the group. He took a few minutes before answering, "I honestly have no idea. I'm assuming that because our destinies are intertwined, I could sense you were in trouble. I was subconsciously trying to save your life."

"But you were poisoned, dying," Lancelot reminded him. "How is it possible that you could do magic when your body was so weak, seeing something that was happening far away from Camelot, and be able to affect what you were seeing?"

Merlin smiled sheepishly. "I'm not exactly a normal warlock..."

Eleanor stopped Merlin from revealing anything else about himself with her sideways look.

"What are you doing?" Gaius asked in awe.

Arthur noticed the light in the cave and glared, his anger rising. "Come on, then! What are you waiting for?! Finish me off!"

Merlin raised an eyebrow, and Arthur shrugged.

The light floated above Arthur and it allowed him to see what he was doing and pull himself onto the ledge. The light moved higher as Arthur did and Arthur noticed the flower on the wall.

Merlin started to grow more agitated. "Leave them Arthur," he watched from his coma as the spiders screeched and crawled towards Arthur. "Go. Save yourself, follow the light."

"Like hell I'm going to save myself. I had to save you, Merlin."

Arthur climbed to the flower and grabbed it and placed it into a pouch on his belt. More spiders kept coming and Arthur started to race to the top of the cave.

Merlin still grew agitated, "Faster. Go faster. Follow the light! Move. Climb."

Arthur made it to the top of the cave. Once he was out safely Merlin relaxed and the light disappeared out of his hand.

The guards were on the battlements and they spotted Arthur returning.

One of them called out to the guards below. "Inform the King! Arthur has returned to Camelot!"

Arthur rode up to the drawbridge but wasn't allowed past. "What are you doing?"

The guard gave Arthur an apologetic shrug. "I'm sorry, Sire. You're under arrest, by order of the King."

Eleanor shook her head. "I can't believe he'd jail you for doing the right thing."

The scene changed to the dungeons, Arthur was in a cell and Uther walked in.

Arthur glared at his father whilst Uther gave him a distasteful glance. "You disobeyed me," he commented coldly.

"Of course I did, a man's life is at stake. Do not let Merlin die because of something I did."

Uther watched Arthur thoughtfully, "Why do you care so much? The boy is just a servant."

Eleanor had to contain her anger and resentment she held towards Uther.

Merlin could see her anger, and he carefully placed an arm over her shoulders — the same way a father would do for his daughter.

Eleanor calmed slightly at his touch.

Arthur paused before answering passionately. "He knew the danger he was putting himself in, and he knew what would happen if he drank from that goblet, but he did it anyway. He saved my life. There's more. There was a woman at the mountain. She knew I was there for the flower. I don't think it was Bayard who tried to poison me."

Uther scowled. "Of course it was."

Arthur pulled out the flower and gave Uther a pleading look, "Gaius knows what to do with it."

Uther took the flower from Arthur.
"Put me in the stocks for a week, a month even, I don't care. Just make sure it gets to him. I'm begging you." Arthur begged.

Uther glared at his son and crushed the flower.

"No!" Eleanor pleaded softly.

"NO!" The knights roared in disbelief.

Arthur lunged forwards and cried out, "NO!"

"You have to learn there's a right and a wrong way of doing things. I'll see you're let out in a week. Then you can find yourself another servant." Uther replied coldly.

Uther dropped the flower and walked out of the chambers.

Arthur tried to reach the flower but it was out of his grasp.

The scene changed to the physician's chambers.

Gaius eyed Merlin nervously. "He hasn't got much longer, has Arthur got the flower?" He asked Gwen as she walked back into the chambers.

Gwen sighed and bit her lip. "I don't know, Uther won't allow anyone to see him," she let out a distressed noise. "Is there nothing we can do to help?"

Gaius shook his head. "Only the leaf of the Mortaeus flower can save him now."

"And we have to find out if Arthur has it." Gwen paused, "I could sneak into the dungeons."

"Guinevere, don't you know how dangerous it would've been for you?" Elyan scolded.

Gwen looked over at her brother. "I didn't care; Merlin was dying."

Gaius frowned. "That would be very dangerous," he replied, but he didn't say no.

Gwen looked at Merlin, looking slightly conflicted she turned to Gaius and her voice took on a more sure edge. "I've got to. Merlin will die if I don't."

"You're such a good friend, Gwen." Merlin said gratefully.

Gwen smiled. "I couldn't let you die."

Merlin started to struggle to breathe. Gaius hurried over to him and called over his shoulder. "Be careful."

Gwen walked down the wrought iron stairway, carrying a small tray of food. She nodded to the guard and gestured to the tray. "Food for the prisoner."

The guard unlocked the door for her.

Arthur looked up and tried to hide his relief when he noticed it was Gwen and pointed towards where the flower was. "Set it down over there."

Arthur got up and headed to the table, "Thank you."

Gwen turned to leave but Arthur called out, "Wait a minute."

He placed the tray back down and walked back to where he had been sitting before, "I couldn't possibly eat this, it's disgusting, the state it's in." He gave Gwen a intense look, hoping she understood. "I'm not sure it's fit for anyone."

Gwen went back to pick up the plate and smiled when she saw the flower hidden between the bread, she left the cell.

Elyan smiled. "You were able to reach it."

"You. Wait!" The guard called out.

Gwen stopped and turned around as the guard approached her. He scanned the plate and grabbed a slice of bread.

He grinned at Gwen. "Waste not, want not eh? We're not all as precious as our Royal Highness."

Gwen turned to leave just as another serving girl came down the steps with a plate and a cup. She bowed her head at the guard, "Food for Prince Arthur."

"Uh oh," Gwaine mumbled.

The guard frowned and turned to Gwen "Stay where you are!"

Gwen dropped the plate, making sure she had the flower, and dashed up the stairs.

Arthur kissed his wife's head. "I'm sorry you almost got caught, Gwen."

"It's alright, Arthur. I made it out before he could catch me," the queen said.

The scene changed to the physician's chambers. Gaius was still with Merlin when Gwen rushed in.

She looked at Merlin anxiously, "How is he?"

Gaius didn't reply, "Have you got the Mortaeus?"

"Here." Gwen handed Gaius the flower.

Gaius gave her a small nod of thanks, "His breathing's much worse. We have to hurry."

Gaius stopped and let out a small groan, Gwen frowned and turned to Gaius. "Why have you stopped?"

"The poison was created using magic; we may need magic to make an antidote.." Gaius explained.

Gwen shook her head, "But we can't. It's forbidden. Even if we could.." she trailed off.

"I'll try and make it work without it. Oh, I need some fresh water." Gaius handed her a bowl and she ran off to get some water.

Gaius lifted up his bowl and stared down into it, "Sythan..." he paused and looked around the room, nervous to be practicing magic again, especially in Camelot.

He sighed and continued. "Sythan arrest wearth feasceaft funden. Denum æfter dome. Dreamleas gebad he gewinnes longsum." his eyes flared gold.

Gwen smiled thoughtfully. "I had wondered how he'd gotten the potion to boil in such a short time."

"What did Gaius say?" Arthur asked all three of the magic users.

"Boil first the found potion or it would be useless. If not thoroughly cooked, it will be ruined afterwards. Joyless, protracted, he endured, conquered," Merlin translated.

The potion sizzled and foamed for a second, Gwen ran back in and handed him the bowl of water before rushing back to Merlin's side.

Gaius smiled, "Thank you."

Gaius headed over to Merlin with the potion, "Hold his noise," he mutterd to Gwen. She pinched Merlin's nose as Gaius pored the potion into Merlin's mouth.

Gaius mumbled to himself as he pored it, willing it to work. "Swallow, Merlin. Swallow it."

Merlin stopped breathing and Gwen cried out, "He's stopped breathing. What's happening? Gaius?"

"Oh dear..." Lancelot said.

Gwaine, for once, was speechless.

Gaius put a hand on the young warlock's chest, "His heart has stopped."

Everyone watching went silent.

Merlin was shocked to know that he'd died, even if it was for a moment or two.

Eleanor could feel her heart beginning to break. "No..." she had to stifle her sobs and cries.

"He's dead?" Gwen gasped, her eyes filling up with tears.

Gaius started at Merlin's body, "He can't be. He can't be. It was his destiny." Gaius stood up, shaking his head.

"It's my fault. If I'd have got here sooner. If I'd have been quicker." Gwen said, she got up and cried in Gaius's arms.

Gaius comforted Gwen and replied, "No, no. It was me. I should've looked after him better. It's my fault."

Unbeknownst to them Merlin had regained conciousness and was alive. He gingerly opened his eyes and let out a disgusted noise when he saw what was happening, "That's disgusting. You should be ashamed of yourself. You're old enough to be her grandfather."

Arthur looked at Merlin incredulously. "You die, and that's the first thing you can think of?"

"You try being witty after coming back from the dead! It's a lot harder than it looks!" Merlin defended.

"Merlin. You're alive." Gaius questioned, sounding elated.

Merlin rolled his eyes, "No. I'm the ghost come back to haunt you."

Gwen grabbed Merlin and kissed him.

Gwaine whistled, which caused Gwen to blush.

Merlin chuckled nervously as Arthur looked at him. "To be fair, you two were not courting at the time. You can't get mad."

"Merlin... I am aware that Guinevere had a life before our courtship. I just wasn't aware that you two had kissed," the king explained.

Merlin and Gwen both attempted to stutter out explanations, but Arthur stopped them. "I don't need to know."

Gwen blushed and stammered apologetically, "Sorry, I'm just...I thought you were dead."

Merlin ran a hand through his hair, seeming embarrassed, "It's fine. It's more than fine. ...erm...what happened? The last thing I remember is drinking the wine."

Gaius entered the council chambers as Uther was consulting his advisers.
"Sire, forgive the interruption, but may I speak with you?"

Uther practically growled, "Not now."

Gaius protested. "But, Your Highness, it is important."

"Word of Bayard's arrest has got back to Mercia. We're about to be attacked."

Gaius kept his tone calm and respectful, "I feel that what I have to tell you may have some bearing on your plans. Please, it will only take a moment."

Uther nodded and stepped towards the side of the room with Gaius. Once Gaius was sure they were out of other's earshot, he spoke.

Gaius kept his voice low. "I know who tried to poison Arthur."

Uther scoffed. "So do I. He's locked in my dungeons."

"It wasn't Bayard. The poison was magical. And I'd recognize the hand that made it anywhere: Nimueh." Gaius replied gravely.

Uther shook his head and tried to ignore him. "You must be mistaken."

"He sounds as if he knows Nimueh." Mordred said.

Gaius sighed, "I wish I was."

Uther shook his head in denial. "It can't have been. We'd know her. That witch's face is not easily forgotten," his last words full of venom and hate.

Mordred was surprised to hear his thoughts be confirmed by Uther, even if it was in a memory.

Gaius shook his head ruefully, "She's a powerful sorceress. She can enchant the eye that beholds her. We never knew it was her."

Uther paused. "Have you any proof?"

"The poison used against Merlin was made more potent by the use of magic."

Uther frowned, "Are you saying that she conspired with Bayard to kill Arthur?"

Elyan shook his head. "Bayard was innocent."

Gaius shook his head. "No, Bayard is innocent. Look at what's happening. This is what she's wanted all along. A war to bring strife and misery to Camelot."

Uther groaned. "How long before Bayard's armies reach our walls?"

Sir Cador frowned as he worked it out, "A day. Maybe less. We should send cavalry out to meet them."

Uther nodded. "Instruct your men not to leave Camelot until I give the word."

Sir Cador, one of the Knights bowed. "Sire."

The knights bowed and left the room.

"You are making the right decision, Sire. Do you think Arthur should be told the truth about Nimueh?" Gaius questioned.

"Truth? What truth?" Arthur questioned.

Eleanor shook her head. "You'll see."

Arthur, Morgana and Uther watched as Bayard and his men rode away from Camelot.

Morgana shot Arthur a teasing smirk, "Okay. Let the bragging begin. How'd you manage it?"

Arthur paused. "I'm not sure. All I do know is I had help. Someone knew I was in trouble and sent a light to guide the way."

Morgana looked surprised. "Who?"

"I don't know. But whoever it was, I'm only here because of them." Arthur replied.

Gwaine smirked. "You owe your life to Merlin... again."

Arthur smiled. "Indeed, I do."

Morgana smiled at Arthur before she left. "I'm glad you're back."

"Arthur? The woman you met in the forest, what did she tell you?" Uther pressed.

Arthur shook his head, "Not much. She was too busy trying to get me killed. It was strange, though."

Uther frowned. "In what way?"

Arthur recalled what happened for him, "I was at her mercy. She could have finished me off, but she chose not to. She said it wasn't my destiny to die at her hand."

Uther sounded almost sympathetic, "You must've been scared."

Arthur shrugged. "Had its moments."

Merlin held back a laugh. Big bad Arthur was scared in the cave.

Uther's voice turned cold and venomous. "Those who practice magic know only evil. They despise and seek to destroy goodness wherever they find it. Which is why she wanted you dead. She is evil."

Merlin, Mordred, and Eleanor felt anger rise in their chests at the late king's words. It was because of Uther that all magic users had to hide who they truly were.

Arthur frowned. "Sounds as if you know her."

Uther turned back to Arthur. "I do. To know the heart of one sorcerer is to know them all. You did the right thing. Even though you were disobeying me. I'm proud of you, Arthur. Never forget that."

"It was strange. He was proud of me, though, he had me locked up."

The scene changed to Gaius's chambers.

Arthur walked in and noticed that Merlin was awake. Arthur smiled. "Still alive, then?"

Merlin nodded. "Oh. Yeah, just about. I understand I have you to thank for that."

Arthur shrugged, "Yeah, well, it was nothing. A half decent servant is hard to come by. I was only dropping by to make sure you're alright. I expect you to be back to work tomorrow." Arthur smirked.

Merlin groaned. "Oh yeah, yeah of course, er, bright and early."

Arthur turned to leave.

Merlin called out, "Arthur. Thank you."

Merlin smiled. "I meant it. You saved my life."

"Well, you saved mine... and I'm guessing there's plenty more to you saving my life in these memories," Arthur mentioned.

Arthur nodded gruffly. "You too. Get some rest."

"Arthur may give you a hard time, but at heart he's a man of honour. There aren't many who'd have risk what he did for a servant." Gaius reminded him.

Merlin looked at his food and muttered. "It all would've been for nothing if you didn't know how to make the antidote."

Gaius didn't respond to that. "Eat your dinner."

Merlin chuckled fondly. "If it weren't for Arthur, Gwen, and Gaius... I would've been dead."

Merlin frowned and shook his head. "I still don't understand why she went to all the trouble of framing Bayard. She could've just kept quiet and killed Arthur."

"But destroying Arthur and Camelot wasn't all she was after. She knew you would be forced to drink that wine. It was you she wanted to kill. Seems someone else knows you're destined for great things, Merlin." Gaius intoned wisely.

Lancelot smiled proudly at his warlock friend. "You are destined for so many great things, my friend."

Nimueh watched in her stone basin as Merlin looked out, consequently meeting her eyes, before she looked away.

Once the memory was done, Eleanor placed it back on the shelf. Her attention was now on the group of people in the cabin.

"That was named The Poisoned Chalice. Shall we take a break, or does everyone want to keep going?"

Lancelot looked at his friends, and then to Eleanor. "I believe it may be wise to continue on."

Eleanor nodded. "As you wish," she said and retrieved the next memory from the shelf.

~ ~ ~

10105 words

Next Update: Lancelot

Published: 2/02/2021

*I didn't publish this last night like I'd hoped, but I love this episode.*