Chapter Text
[Noon, a stone hallway in the castle at Camelot. A young woman with long, curly blonde hair rounds the corner. The young woman, Alba, smiles at the pair of guards clad in crimson as she passes between them and they bow their heads to her. Dressed in a cream-colored gown embroidered with swirling patterns in gold and pale green thread, elegantly tied by a thick golden sash beneath her bust, she arranges a bouquet of flowers in one hand. Pausing with a frown in front of a heavy wooden door at her right, she takes a small bare-handled dagger from behind her to slice away a dead leaf, which flutters to the floor. Smiling again, Alba turns to the door. Her hair in front has been pulled up and braided around the crown of her head, with shorter locks coming loose and falling around her face, undone by her pinked cheeks and the now unfelt wind of the flowers’ home. Carefully, expertly, the young woman, Alba, tucks the dagger into the back of the sash. Blowing a curling lock out from her cheek, she knocks.]
Arthur [Muffled calling]
Come in.
[Alba pushes the door open and, looking at her bouquet, steps through the doorway.]
[Cut to]
[Alba enters Arthur’s chambers, looking at the table to which she is crossing.]
Alba [Brightly]
Good day, Sire!
[Laying the bouquet on the well-worn surface, Alba turns, already bowing to the head chair, gabled and arched with wide armrests, when she looks up and finds it empty. She straightens, brows lowered and shoulders back.]
Alba
Sire?
[Alba looks about the empty room. She leans sideways to see into the bedroom. Her eyes drift away, distracted.]
Alba
Sire?
[Alba looks around, high into the corners and back to the table. Disturbed, she touches the wood as if to assure herself of something, but her eyes rove twice around the table in each direction. They dart, then, to the edges of the room.]
Alba
Your Majesty?
[Still examining the sparse furnishings, Alba crosses to the bedroom, but finds it empty.
Alba
Arthur? Where did you go?
[Alba looks behind the servants’ door, then the wardrobe. She stretches her arms, measuring the wardrobe’s size against them, then turns, puzzled, looking at a blank spot on another wall. Slowly, Alba comes back into the main room just as the door squeaks ajar. Alba glances out the window, down into the courtyard, then turns to face the door, drawing herself upright and smooth.Merlin heaves a set of silver armor from the hall, dragging a saddlebag with one leg, a sword in its scabbard clutched under his opposite arm, its tip nearly dragging across the stone floor. Immediately, Alba moves to help lift the offending pieces and set them on the table. Two fingers of one of the gauntlets fall on the flowers. Merlin’s out of breath.]
Merlin [Labored]
Thanks.
[Noticing Alba truly, Merlin’s eyes widen and he leans away while she rescues the flowers, shifting the gauntlet aside.]
Merlin [Bewildered]
How did you get in here?
[Alba looks up, startled. She is as tall as Merlin is and meets his confused eyes.]
Alba
Merlin?
[Alba lays an arm on his and laughs, shoulders no long so rigid.Merlin draws back from her touch. She does not notice and runs the fingers of one hand through his hair.]
Alba [Amused]
What have you done? I’ve seen you age yourself, but younger? Why have you done this? I quite like your long greys.
[Merlin’s bewildered expression is rapidly turning into distress.]
Merlin
What are you doing here?
[Merlin cocks his head, looking at Alba.]
Merlin
And I haven’t aged myself. Who can age himself?
Alba
Uh, yes you have, Merlin. And you can. I know you’ve done it for ages, but never like this.You look like a very young man.
[Alba notes his expression, laughs again, and pulls herself into his arms.]
Alba
You’ll sort it out, I know. But the queen will not be well-sorted when she sees what Arthur’s done to their rooms.
[Alba withdraws, still talking, looking at Merlin’s face.]
Alba
There’re only four chairs and her things are missing. Is this some sort of new cleaning?
[Alba notices that Merlin isn’t fitting his arms around hers. She stands straighter, slowly growing alarmed.]
Alba
Merlin.
[Behind them, the door opens. Alba turns her head to Arthur. He wears an ocean-colored tunic and dark brown trousers. Together with Merlin, she watches Arthur’s features turn from surprise to alarm, settling into irritation. Arthur slams the door behind him.]
Arthur [Yells]
Merlin! My chambers are not for your amorous pursuits.
Merlin [Loudly]
I didn’t!
[Merlin looks at Alba, then pushes her away and backs himself up. Alba doesn’t notice. She is astounded, staring at Arthur.]
Merlin [Agitated, to Arthur]
I swear, I wasn’t. I mean—this isn’t what it looks like.
[Alba looks from Arthur to Merlin, and back.]
Alba [Demanding, to Merlin]
What did you do?
[Merlin continues to back away, confused and defensive.]
Merlin
Arthur, I swear. I don’t know her.
[Arthur examines the woman for the first time, his brows lowered.]
Arthur [To Alba]
Who are you?
[Alba’s eyes strain. She lowers her head, disbelieving, watching the king.]
Alba [Quietly]
Sire?
Merlin [Quickly]
I just found her here. I came in and she was already here, talking about the room being wrong or something.
[Alba moves backwards around the chair toward the far wall. Her disbelief falling into confusion and pain.]
Alba [Whispering]
I don’t understand. [To Merlin, imploring] I don’t understand. What has happened?
[Pause.Merlin shakes his head slightly.]
Alba [Emphatically]
This is wrong! You’re both too young. Merlin, you carry armor like a servant. There’re four chairs at a table for a family of seven, and the courtyard’s emptier than I’ve ever seen it. [Yells] Something is wrong!
[Arthur draws his sword from its scabbard on the table.]
Arthur [Stern]
Who are you?
[Silence. Alba stares at the sword, stunned and rigid. Arthur approaches her via his end of the table, his steps measured. Alba’s eyes lose focus on him, but she pulls herself back, pouring into his eyes. Merlin draws near around the opposite end of the table. She trembles, straightening.]
Alba [Cautiously, to Merlin]
My Lord. Please. Who is the king?
[Pause.]
Arthur
I am the king.
[Alba’s eyes shut. She looks at Arthur.]
Alba [Slowly]
How long have you been king?
[All silence and stillness. Arthur is bewildered. Merlin’s eyes clear and dart to Alba.]
Arthur [Distantly]
Four months.
[Alba pales visibly and presses herself against the wall between two windows, pressing her hand against her chest. A gold chain rolls out from beneath her dress and across her throat. Alba’s horrified eyes find Merlin. She stares, then with one step and a desperate hand thrust out to him, she faints into his arms.]
[Cut to]
[Arthur, Merlin, and Gaius stand around a high-backed chair in the King’s Hall. Gaius leans over with a vial of yellow crystals, which he passes beneath the young woman’s nose. Her head jerks to one side and her right arm strains to press the man away. With another pass of the vial, she opens her eyes, fluttering and delicate. Her blue eyes adjust and take in Merlin, to her left, Arthur to her right, and pass quickly between them before, relaxing her body though her eyes show distress, she focuses on the old man in red robes before her.]
Alba
Please, what is your name?
Gaius
I am Gaius, my lady.
Alba
Gaius?
[Alba smiles brightly. She rises swiftly, kisses him on the cheek.]
Alba [Earnestly]
I have so longed to know you.
Gaius: [Smiling]
You honor me. Would you care to tell me your name?
[Short pause.]
Alba
I’m called Alba.
Gaius [Kindly]
Alba, where do you come from? Who is your family?
[Pause.]
Alba
I am an orphan. My father was close to the king. The king made me his ward.
Gaius
I am sorry, child….In which kingdom were you born?
Alba
I am sorry, but I cannot answer you.
Gaius:
Why not?
Alba
It might alter things.
Arthur
What sort of things?
Alba
Things which must come to be.
[Arthur rolls his eyes, looking to his right. Alba follows his eyes, turning in her chair to see four knights standing in a row: Leon, Elyan, Gwaine, and Percival. She stares. Arthur notices.]
Alba [Quietly]
Oh.
Arthur
Knights of Camelot.
Alba
Yes, Sire.
[Alba suddenly leans back in chair.]
Alba
Yes, I know them.
Arthur
You know them?
Alba
Yes, Sire.
Gaius
But they have all already said they don’t recognize you, Alba.
Alba
They don’t yet. But I know them, as I know the king and Merlin. I am pleased to know you now, Gaius. [Delighted] Perhaps this will be more of a blessing than a curse.
[Arthur rolls his eyes, leaning forward to demand Alba’s attention, which he gets.]
Arthur
How did you get into my room?
Alba [Calmly]
Through the door, Sire. I cannot tell you more than that.
Arthur
How did you get into the castle and past the guards unnoticed?
Alba [Softer]
You would not believe me.
Arthur
Try.
[Alba looks at Merlin, who is studying her. She takes a large breath, fixes a pleasant expression on her face, and looks back at Arthur.]
Alba
I woke up in this castle. It is my home. I have no other.
[Arthur squints at her.]
Gaius
Do you mean to say that you are a servant here?
Alba
No, Gaius. I am not.
Gaius
Then how do you live here?
Alba [Haltingly]
I have been given rooms.
Merlin
By who?
[Alba looks down.]
Alba
I have said too much. I don’t make sense.
Arthur
No, you don’t.
[Pause.]
Merlin
How do you know about Gaius?
Alba [Carefully, genuine]
His reputation is well-known. He is an accomplished healer. [To Gaius] My tutor always speaks very highly of you.
Gaius
And who is your tutor?
[Alba frowns and half-turns her head. The doors open behind her chair, booted footsteps follow. Alba smiles and winks at Merlin. Arthur sees, crossing his arms in front of him.]
Alba [Calling behind her]
And who is this who arrives late to the king’s summons?
[Agravaine, dressed all in black falters, but continues walking, approaching Arthur.]
Agravaine
I do apologize, Sire. I have no excuse for my tardiness.
[Arthur glances at him and claps Agravaine on the shoulder.]
Arthur
It’s nothing, Uncle.
[Alba sits forward, face taut.]
Alba [Seriously]
Uncle? You are Agravaine?
[Agravaine looks at Arthur. He stands slightly behind Gaius and Arthur’s shoulders.]
Arthur
Lord Agravaine. My uncle.
[Alba’s eyes widen. She looks at Merlin, her eyes skipping to Gaius and back again. She twists to look at the knights. They stand impassive, and her shocked expression returns forward, then clears to determination.]
Alba
I will not speak in front of him, Sire.
[Arthur widens his steps and places his hands on his hips.]
Arthur [Louder]
Yes, you will.
Alba
I will not, Sire. I am sorry; I know you cannot understand.
Arthur [Low, agitated]
‘You cannot understand.’ ‘You cannot understand.’ [Loudly] I wish you would tell me something that I can understand!
[Alba lowers her head a fraction, then lifts it again.]
Alba
I would not do anything to harm Camelot. Your uncle, Sire, is not to be trusted. I will not speak in front of him.
Your Majesty, my presence clearly upsets the child. Perhaps it is better if I do go.
Arthur [Stern]
No. I will not have my prisoner, who trespassed in my personal chambers, accuse my closest councilors.
[All quiet]
Agravaine [To Alba]
I believe the king has ordered you to speak.
[Alba’s eyes, like fire, rise to Agravaine’s.]
Alba
Do not provoke me, Agravaine.
Agravaine
Oh? Is there something about you we should fear?
Arthur
She’s only spoken nonsense since she appeared.
Agravaine [To Arthur]
She is only one young woman, Sire. Perhaps a couple of hours in the dungeons will persuade her to speak. I doubt the castle is in any serious danger from her.
Alba [Hotly]
Oh, do you, traitor?
Arthur
You will not speak that way to him! Apologize.
Agravaine
It is fine, Arthur. I do not mind whatever little lies she wants to tell.
[Pause.]
Alba [To Arthur]
I have called a snake a snake, Sire. I will not apologize for that.
[The knights stir, exchanging glances.]
Agravaine [Chuckling falsely]
She does appear spirited. Perhaps a night would be better suited to inspiring truth in her.
Alba [Vehemently, to Agravaine]
And where were you when the king summoned you? In the woods, taking the air? Or riding to consult with your mistress Morgana?
[Agravaine looks stricken and takes a step back. Arthur does not see, but Merlin and Gaius both look at Agravaine.]
Arthur
I’ve heard enough. [To Sir Leon] Take her to the dungeons.
[Sir Leon looks at Elyan and both come forward. They stand aside the chair and Alba rises. Agravaine backs up further, unconsciously.]
Alba [To Agravaine, sinister and low]
You are right to fear me.
[Alba turns to the two knights.]
Alba [Brighter]
Ah! Sir Leon. Sir Elyan. A pleasure. Shall we go?
[Alba steps beside them and leads them quickly from the hall.]
[Cut to]
[Gaius’s workshop. Gaius and Merlin enter, shut the door, and stand close together in the middle of the room.]
Gaius
Do you think she’s telling the truth?
Merlin
She has to be. She said she’s seen me age myself, even when I denied it was possible. And did you see Agravaine when she accused him of working with Morgana?
Gaius
I did. We’ve suspected as much of Lord Agravaine, but I urge you to be cautious. You might have misunderstood her.
Merlin
I don’t think I did. If she knows about Morgana, and knows about me—Gaius, how is that possible?
Gaius
I’m not sure. Some very old magic may be at work. [Looking up] Perhaps you should speak to her yourself, before Arthur tries again. Perhaps she will confide in you.
Merlin
And if she does know?
Gaius
What do you think?
Merlin
She won’t betray me. She lost her temper with Agravaine, but before that she was very careful.
Gaius
I agree. She seems quite taken with you, Merlin. She may be loyal enough to keep your secret. And if all she’s said is true, she may know more, which will be very useful to us in fighting Morgana. Regardless, I doubt Arthur will believe what she says about your magic any more than he believed in Agravaine’s betrayal.
[Merlin nods, thoughtfully.]
Merlin
All the same, if we could find something to help Arthur see Agravaine as suspicious…
Gaius
Merlin, be careful. If Agravaine truly is working with Morgana, any interference with him will be as dangerous as if you did it to Morgana herself.
[Merlin grins and leaves.]
[Cut to]
[Merlin walking in a long hallway. Arthur rounds a corner behind him.]
Arthur
Merlin! I’ve been looking for you.
[Merlin stops, turns, then looks back the direction he’d been heading. Arthur walks to him. Merlin looks at him.]
Merlin
Have you? Oh, I was—I was just, helping Gaius with something.
Arthur [Skeptically]
Sure you have. Come on. I need you.
[Arthur walks away toward the way he came.]
Merlin [Calling]
Right now?
Arthur [Calling back]
Yes, right now!
[Merlin sighs, looks after Arthur, slowly turns and follows as Arthur rounds corner.]
[Cut to]
[Alba sits with her back to the far wall braiding lengths of straw together and setting them in a pile beside her. A door closes. She tenses as footsteps approach and stands when Agravaine and a guard unlock the door. Alba tucks a pendant on a golden chain beneath her dress, taking care that it’s invisible before the door swings open. Agravaine looks at her. He gestures the guard away, taking the keys and putting them into his pocket. Alba stands very still and tall, almost his height.]
Agravaine
You are something of a mystery. Now that we’re alone, I was hoping you would like to talk to me.
[Alba does not move or acknowledge him. He comes closer.]
Agravaine
How did you get into King Arthur’s chambers?
[Silence.]
Agravaine
How did you come to know where they were?
[Silence.]
Agravaine
Why do you think you know the king?
[Silence. Alba looks impassive.]
Agravaine [Louder]
Why were you in his chambers?
[Silence.]
Agravaine
Are you working with anyone? Did anyone help you to get into the palace? Maybe the maid Guinevere or Merlin?
[Alba shakes head slightly. Agravaine notices and smiles briefly.]
Agravaine [Pleasant, serious]
You said some interesting things before. To Arthur. I would like to talk about them.
[Silence. Agravaine walks slowly in an arch around her. Alba follows him with her eyes, then looks ahead again.]
Agravaine
Why do you think I know or care anything about Morgana?
[Silence.]
Agravaine
Then, perhaps you’ll tell me why you said them, as they aren’t true.
Alba
I did not lie.
[Agravaine considers her, coming within arm’s reach.]
Agravaine
No. No, you didn’t. However, I have the great advantage of being trusted implicitly. You do not.
[Silence.]
Agravaine
It’s no matter, really. I’m not even sure why I chose to come down. No one cares for you or knows you’re here. I expect I’ll convince Arthur to have you hanged within a few days. Have you been to a hanging before?
[Agravaine gestures, pointing first to Alba’s long neck, then twists his hands in front of her, as if holding her neck between them.]
Agravaine
Your neck will elongate and break. Your head will twist away from your body as it’s never meant to be.
Alba
The king would never allow anyone to be hanged without trial.
Agravaine
Perhaps. Still, such a satisfying image, isn’t it?
[Agravaine grins at the ceiling, hands clasped behind his back. Alba looks at him.]
Alba
Do not provoke me.
Agravaine
But who needs a gallows? There are so many ways for someone to die in a dungeon. Another prisoner, someone violent, could get put in the wrong cell by mistake. There might be some accident in the food.
[Agravaine looks down, meeting Alba’s stare.]
Alba
Have a care for your own neck, snake. I warned you before.
[Alba looks ahead again. Agravaine shakes off his unease.]
Agravaine
Accidents happen, you know. The nights do get to cold here. The rats bring illness. And escaping prisoners—noone really cares if they are run through. Even if they thought they were just being led to the king for interrogation.
[Alba squeezes her hands together around a loop of her chain. Agravaine narrows his eyes at her.]
Agravaine
It’s a pity, really.
[Agravaine traces a curling line across one of her cheeks with a fingertip. Alba clenches her jaw but does not close her eyes or look at him.]
Agravaine
I’m sure my lady would find some excellent uses for your blood, and such pale skin and hair.
[Agravaine smells a few locks, daintily]
Agravaine [Low]
A shame it will all be wasted, spilled on straw.
[Alba slams the chain against Agravaine’s jaw. He stumbles backward. The air swirls. The room sounds like a waterfall. Hay quivers and lifts about a foot off the floor. Agravaine sees Alba’s eyes glowing orange and backs away from her, afraid but elated. His boots part the hay behind him, which bunches around his calves.]
Agravaine [Yells]
A witch! You’re a witch! [Louder] Guards!
Alba [Immediately]
No one can hear you.
[The chain and manacles fall from Alba’s wrists. Agravaine watches it coil itself into a perfect circle in the air between them and hover horizontally like a table top.]
Alba
I am a ward of the king, pupil of the most powerful warlock in the world. Do you think any cell could contain me?
[Her dress shines, reflecting off the chain circle so that Agravaine shields his eyes. The sunlight beyond the window has disappeared, as though the cell were caught up in a jar of night. Lightning crackles in the bars on the window, distracting Agravaine.]
Alba
I know your doom, traitor. I know Morgana’s. And I will not interfere. But you will not harm me, nor speak to me again.
[The braided strands of straw rush from her side to wrap themselves like a collar around Agravaine’s neck. He struggles to pull them away, but cannot. He looks, wild, at Alba.]
Agravaine [Accusing]
Witch.
[Everything falls silent and back into normalcy. Agravaine breathes hard, snatching the limp straw away, throwing it onto the floor. He’s afraid, trying to look strong as he stumbles a few feet away in the bright sunlight streaming through the high window.]
Alba [Evenly]
Leave.
[Agravaine hesitates. Alba’s eyes glow, and Agravaine is lifted into the air and thrust through the open doorway, crashing into the wall as the door slams shut. He crumples, limp, onto the floor. Alba rushes to the small window face-level in the door]
Alba [Alarmed]
My lord? My lord! [Loudly] Help! Someone! Lord Agravaine! He’s knocked himself out!
[Multiple sets of footsteps running. Sir Leon sees Agravaine. Alba’s face is above him, hands clasping the bars of the window in the cell door.]
Leon [To Alba]
What happened?
Alba
He tripped as he slammed the door.
[Sir Leon kneels by Agravaine. Alba starts. She ducks and whispers. Her chain and manacle snake from the circle on the floor back to lock over her wrists. She straightens, looking out again. Sir Leon doesn’t see and the guards lean over him with heavy torches.]
Leon
Are you alright, Lord Agravaine?
Agravaine [Rousing]
Yes. [Slurred] Of course.
Alba
Are you certain? You must have hit your head rather hard. I heard the crack it made over the sound of the door.
[He glares at Alba’s innocent, concerned expression. Sir Leon helps Agravaine to stand.]
Leon
Perhaps you should see Gaius, my Lord.
Agravaine
No, no. There’s no need.
[Agravaine begins to limp away. As he stretches his muscles and his gate normalizes. Sir Leon nods to Alba and follows, leading the guards.]
Agravaine [To Sir Leon]
She still won’t answer anything. Inform Arthur.
Leon
The king has just summoned us both, my Lord.
[Agravaine turns back, glaring at Sir Leon. At Sir Leon’s startled expression he breaks off and pulls at his gloves, continuing toward the exit.]
Alba [Calling down the hallway]
Excuse me!
[Agravaine and Sir Leon pause, looking back. Alba’s fingers wave in the air through the bars of the small window.]
Alba
It hardly matters, but Lord Agravaine did not relock the door.
[Agravaine grimaces. He pats his pockets. Finding the keys, he hands them to the guard, who walks down the hall. Alba’s fingers retreat. Sir Leon, stifling a grin, follows Agravaine out.]
[Cut to]
[Inside Arthur’s chambers, afternoon. Arthur sits at head of table, Merlin by fireplace on floor polishing armor (2 gauntlets and the sword already done), Agravaine standing to one side of table, Sir Leon standing halfway between Agravaine and Merlin on opposite side of table. Arthur is engrossed by a parchment in his hands.]
Arthur [Distracted]
Has the girl been any more forthcoming?
[Agravaine looks pointedly at Sir Leon, who starts and answers.]
Leon
No, Sire. She still refuses to answer Lord Agravaine.
Arthur
Huh. [To Agravaine] Well, I’m sure she’ll come ‘round to you by morning.
Agravaine [Carefully]
I believe the girl may be rather disturbed, Arthur. Perhaps it would be better if I don’t go to her the next time.
Arthur
Who do you recommend, then?
Agravaine
One of your knights. Perhaps, Sir Gwaine?
Arthur [Confused]
Gwiane? Why Gwaine?
Agravaine
I believe she may be more forthcoming to someone… younger. She is not stable, and I don’t want to frighten her any more. Sir Gwaine seems to have a soothing effect on young women.
Leon
Excuse me, my Lord, but all that seemed to scare her was your fall.
[Arthur sits forward, parchment down.]
Arthur [To Sir Leon]
Fall? What fall?
Leon
Lord Agravaine tripped and fell after he…left the cell, Sire. He lost consciousness.Alba called for us to help him.
[Merlin pauses in his polishing, grinning thoughtfully.]
Arthur [To Agravaine]
You should see Gaius, Uncle.
[Agravaine touches his neck.]
Agravaine [Agitated]
I’m fine, Arthur.
[Agravaine notices what he’s doing and puts his hands down. Merlin sits up, drawing Arthur’s attention.]
Agravaine
My only concern is for the girl’s mental health.
Merlin [To Arthur]
If I may, Sire.
[Arthur nods.]
Merlin
Alba did break into your chambers. I don’t think we can afford to treat her as an invalid if she isn’t.
Agravaine [Irritated]
I have spoken to her.She is clearly delusional. She believes she lives in this castle but no one knows her.
[Silence. Merlin lowers himself again.]
Arthur
Merlin.
[Merlin pops his head up over the tabletop.]
Merlin
Sire?
Arthur
You’re sure you don’t know her.
Merlin
No. Not at all. But—it was weird, but she did seem to know me. Know a lot of us. She recognized Sir Leon and Elyan by sight and knew about Gaius. Maybe she’s speaking the truth, just not in a way that makes sense to us yet. [Carefully] And she did say something none of us wanted to hear.
[Arthur lowers his head but maintains his gaze on Merlin.]
Arthur
You mean about Lord Agravaine?
Merlin
No. Not exactly.
[Arthur raises his head, comprehension lowering his shoulders.]
Arthur
Morgana.
Merlin
Well, no one’s heard from her in months. Then, all of a sudden, Alba shows up, in this room, claiming to know you and me and without anyone having seen her get here? It’s odd, that’s for certain. I think she does know more than she’s saying but she’s, scared or something, to say everything.
[Agravaine glares at Merlin, who notices and holds his gaze, then grins and drops back to the armor. Arthur looks at the table, considering.]
Arthur [To Sir Leon]
Send Gwaine in another hour or so. See if he can get a sensible answer out of her.
Leon
Yes, Sire.
Arthur [To Agravaine]
Meanwhile, I want a cursory search of the forests around the city.
Agravaine [Surprised]
Arthur—
Arthur
Look. Uncle. I doubt that Morgana is anywhere close by, and I certainly don’t question your loyalties, but there is something odd about this girl. I think Merlin’s right.
[Arthur nods at Merlin, who watches.]
Arthur [To Agravaine]
If she’s suggesting Morgana’s involved, she may know something we don’t. [To Sir Leon] Make inquiries in Camelot as well. Start in the lower town.
Leon
About the girl, Sire?
[Sir Leon glances nervously at Agravaine, who is looking straight ahead.]
Arthur
And Morgana. See if anyone’s seen anything suspicious, anyone travelling into the woods at odd hours. It won’t cost us anything to be cautious.
[Agravaine and Sir Leon bow, leave.]
[Cut to]
[Arthur’s chambers, night. Arthur sits at table. Merlin knocks and enters, placing Arthur’s dinner before him. Arthur pushes away maps and parchment.]
Arthur [Agitated]
It’s about time, Merlin. Get distracted did you?
[Arthur picks up drumstick, takes a bite.]
Merlin [Annoyed]
No, Sire. Just a lot of dinners ordered at once, I guess. I had to wait.
[Merlin sorts the parchments, rolling them and setting them on the far side of the table.]
Arthur [To Merlin]
Have you seen Sir Leon?
Merlin
No, Sire.
Arthur
Well, where is Elyan? And Percival?
[Merlin picks up clothes and crumpled parchment littering the table and floor.]
Merlin
I don’t know. I haven’t seen them.
[Arthur licks his fingers, suddenly very still. He puts his drumstick down.]
Arthur
Merlin, where is Gwaine?
Merlin [Annoyed]
How am I supposed to know?
[Arthur glares at him.]
Merlin [Quickly]
He’s probably still in the dungeons.
Arthur [Confused]
I sent him hours ago.
[Merlin shrugs.]
Arthur
What could he be doing?
[Arthur starts, jumps up, rushes out. Merlin runs after him.]
[Cut to]
[Arthur and Merlin in the dungeons, pass two sets of guards. As they approach, a mighty uproar of male laughter from the cell on the far end of the hall.]
[Cut to]
[Inside a long dungeon, Alba sits to the left of the center of the room on a low stool. Opposite her, angled toward the right corner, sits Sir Gwaine, Sir Leon, Sir Elyan, and Sir Percival in two rows. All are on matching wooden stools and are eating from plates like Arthur’s. Alba’s is on the floor beside her, along with a full cup of wine. She holds another cup, half-filled with water, in her hand. In the corner, Gwen stands, holding a pitcher of wine. The knights’ cups are set on the floor. Percival drinks from his.]
Alba [Emphatically]
It made perfect sense to me. There was a horse. I needed to get back to my lessons on time. That it was the king’s best warhorse seemed a poor excuse.
[Laughter]
Elyan
Why didn’t you take a guard’s horse?
Alba
He’d have had to walk.
[Laughter. Arthur comes to the open door, takes in Alba and the knights. Merlin peers in over his shoulder.]
Percival [Grinning]
But, the king had to walk back.
Alba [Seriously]
He’d been looking a bit portly lately.
[Laughter. Arthur looks back at Merlin, who looks delighted. Catching Arthur’s eye, he tries to restrain himself.]
Alba [To Gwen]
I wish you would take my stool. I don’t like you standing, nor serving us.
Gwen [Surprised]
No, my lady. Truly, I am fine. Thank you.
[Pause. Gwen looks self-consciously at the knights, then back at Alba.]
Gwen
I don’t mind.
[Arthur smiles in spite of himself. Percival stands, quietly insists she sits beside her brother who tries to get up belatedly. She sits. Arthur clears his throat. All rise and turn to door, in a clatter to set down plates and look dignified. Sir Leon tries to speak while finishing chewing.]
Leon [Muffled]
Sire.
[Alba and Gwen curtsey in unison.]
Alba [Brightly]
Your majesty.
[Arthur enters room, hands on hips. Gwaine takes a drink. Percival hits him, gives a pointed look. Gwaine places the cup on his stool.]
Arthur [To the room]
I wasn’t aware that we were entertaining prisoners.
Alba
Well, to be fair, Sire. I believe I was doing more of the entertaining.
[Alba grins at knights and Gwen. Arthur ignores her.]
Arthur
Nor was I aware that a simple interrogation required so many people.
[Seeing the plates, Arthur remembers his upstairs.]
Arthur
Or dinner.
Leon
Your Majesty. Gwaine was here, talking to her, like you ordered, and then…
[No one continues. Gwen looks down and edges away from her brother, nearer to Percival by the wall.]
Arthur
Alright. Everyone out. This is a dungeon, not a banquet hall.
[The knights shuffle toward the door with their plates and cups. Sir Leon nods to Alba. Sir Elyan bows slightly. She smiles at them, accepting their respect with small nods and grace. Gwaine gives his plate to Elyan. Gwaine takes Alba’s hand, bowing over it.]
Gwaine
It has been a great pleasure to question you, my lady.
[Percival pushes him on, smiling, and bows to Alba, who grins and curtseys to him. Arthur rolls his eyes. All knights bow to Arthur as they pass. He touches Gwen’s hand as she goes. She smiles at him but continues. Gwaine and Percival clap Merlin on the shoulder as they pass him in the hall. Arthur gestures to a set of guards and Merlin, who remove the stools. As Merlin enters the room, Alba beams at him.]
Arthur [To Alba]
Are you going to tell me where you’re from?
Alba
I’m sorry, Sire, but I will say nothing different tonight than I said this afternoon.
Arthur
When will you say something different, then?
[Alba gives a small smile.]
Alba
Perhaps tomorrow.
Arthur
Tomorrow is the anniversary of my father’s birth. I will not be in a good mood. You’d do better to tell me today. Now.
[Alba is startled and silent. Merlin glances at her, carries two stools out the door. Alba and Arthur are alone. Her eyes dart back and forth at the floor. Her face contorts as in physical pain. She rocks back and forth, slumping and holding herself with crossed arms. Arthur takes a step toward her. Alba ignores him.]
Alba [To herself]
Alba. Oh, it was me! The whole time. They were talking about me.
[Arthur watches her, confused and mildly wary. Alba sinks to the ground.]
Arthur
Are you ill? Are you alright?
[Alba’s eyes remain closed. Her head moves as if in the echo of a shaking head.]
Arthur [Slowly]
Right. Suit yourself then.
[Arthur turns away. Alba’s head springs up, her eyes widen, desperate. She forces herself to stand, though stooped, and leans heavily on the stone wall.]
Alba [Suddenly]
Remember me, Arthur! Remember me when your best friend is taken.
[Arthur pauses in the doorway, half-turns back. Alba’s face shows her earnestness, but she is obviously frightened. Arthur sees her hands clasped in front of her, chains and manacles reflecting the light from the torches in the hallway. He considers her, thenwalks out. A guard closes and locks the door behind him. Alba looks around her, alone in the large, silent, empty dungeon. She kneels in a square of moonlight cast by the single window and bends her head. The guard leaves. Footsteps move away. A loud sob, and she clasps a hand over her mouth, the other hand twisting in the manacle to cover the first.]
[Cut to]
[Agravaine arrives at Morgana’s lodge. He dismounts and comes inside. Morgana holds a knife before her, putting it away when she recognizes Agravaine.]
Morgana
What are you doing here?
Agravaine
I’m sorry to have startled you, but something has happened. There’s a woman. Does the name Alba mean anything to you?
Morgana
No. I have never heard it. Who is she?
Agravaine
Just a girl, but she appeared in Arthur’s chambers today while I was here. She claims to know all about him, about the kingdom. When I got there, she called me a traitor and refused to answer any more questions about herself unless I left.
Morgana [Reasoning, concerned]
She’s just a girl, you said. Arthur can’t possibly believe her over you.
Agravaine [Rapidly]
He didn’t. But she accused me of coming to the forest to meet with you. Arthur’s ordered a search of the woods and lower town.
[Pause.]
Morgana [Yells]
So your first reaction was to come straight to me! What if you were followed?
Agravaine
I wasn’t. I’ve delayed the search until tomorrow. I had to warn you.
Morgana [Angrily]
You did not. I can defend my home, should any fool find it.
[Morgana turns away, hiding her trembling.]
Agravaine
It isn’t only that. She has magic! She’s powerful.
Morgana [Startled]
Tell Arthur. He’ll have her killed and you won’t have to worry.
Agravaine
I can’t. She’ll-- She’s made me look a fool to Sir Leon. The knights are becoming suspicious of me. If they were to track you, you’d have a harder time escaping them than you did last time.
Morgana
You should have more faith in my powers. Only Emrys can harm me.
[Agravaine watches Morgana’s back careful before changing tactics.]
Agravaine
There’s something else. Arthur’s servant, Merlin. Arthur listens to him, and Merlin has no love for me. He’s taking the girl’s side.
[Morgana faces Agravaine.]
Morgana [Hard rage]
He knows about me. Before anyone else, he knew. [Quietly] He tried to kill me. He killed my sister.
[Pause.]
Morgana [Vehemently]
I hate him!
Agravaine
What, then, do you suggest we do?
[Morgana closes her eyes, breathing and calming herself.]
Morgana
I have been studying a way, a brand of old magic powerful enough to engulf a city. But it requires a sacrifice. [Quickly] Bring him to me. Bring him and be back in Camelot by morning. The magic must be done in the caves of Tintagel; I will take Merlin there.
Agravaine [Surprised]
My lady. Is it wise for you to go so far alone?
Morgana
Faith, Agravaine. Besides, bring him unconscious and I will see to it that Merlin never wakes again.
Agravaine [Carefully]
Morgana, Arthur is already suspicious.
Morgana
But not of you, and it must remain that way. I will have a long death prepared for Merlin. It is the only way to be rid of him.
Agravaine
Arthur—
Morgana [Forcefully]
Depends on Merlin. He will be too distracted to notice the destruction at hand. He’ll defer his searches to chasing after his servant and this girl’s origins.
[Morgana turns away, coming to her cauldron, selecting an herb from the rack above her head.]
Morgana
By dawn. Hurry.
[Agravaine hesitates, then hurries out. Morgana’s eyes glow orange.]
[Cut to]
[Alba wakes to the sound of squeaking doorhinges and a muffled voice. A light clamber. She lays still, listening to quick footsteps approach. She whispers something and falls a few inches to the hay with a grunt. She pulls her hands together and whispers again.]
[Cut to]
[Merlin edges around the guards, sleeping at a small table. He takes the keys from one. Two blankets are folded and laid over Merlin’s right arm. He walks down a hall, stopping at Alba’s door. He unlocks the door. When he opens it, Alba is struggling to get up in the dark shadows along the far wall.]
Alba [Agitated, low but clearly heard]
Does no one sleep in this court?! Three guards, a maid, and a stable boy have come already.
[Standing, Alba sees Merlin. He shuts the door behind him and comes forward. She walks into the patch of moonlight.]
Alba [Surprised]
Merlin.Why are you here?
Merlin
I, uh, brought you some blankets.
[Merlin gives them to her.]
Merlin
It’s cold tonight.
[Alba fingers them.]
Alba
Thank you.
[Gestures behind her, smiling a little.]
Alba [Teasing]
They’ll go nicely with the straw over there.
[Merlin grins briefly.]
Merlin
I’m –I’m sorry to have woken you.
Alba
It’s fine. I don’t mind you.
[Alba tosses the blankets behind her and turns around. Pause.]
Alba
Now, why are you really here?
Merlin [Haltingly]
I want to ask you about Lord Agravaine. And Morgana.
[Alba nods.]
Alba
You want to know if there is any truth in what I said.
Merlin [Quickly]
No, it’s not that. I believe you….Well, I believe that you believe you. I- I mostly just want to know how you know these things. About Morgana and Agravaine, I mean.
[Alba looks down, walks around Merlin, her chain dragging behind her. Merlin lifts his foot as the chain touches the toe of his shoe, then steps away from it completely. Alba pulls a pendant from beneath her dress, clutching it in her hand.]
Alba
I know my history. I know from the lessons my tutor taught me, the stories he told, that Agravaine was—has been—in the service of Morgana from the moment he entered the court.
Merlin
But how can you know that? You say history, but no one here believes that of Agravaine. Everyone thinks that he’s loyal to Arthur.
Alba [Emphatically]
He has no loyalty to Arthur.
Merlin
It’s not a fact now, so how can anyone have taught you that? He hasn’t even be here a year.
[Alba turns completely so that her back is to the door and she faces Merlin, arms at her sides.]
Alba [Carefully]
I was born in the twelfth year of Arthur’s reign.
Merlin [Surprised]
You can’t have been. That would mean that—thatyou… How’d you get here?
Alba
I don’t know. Magic of some kind. At first I thought it might have been yours but, now I don’t know.I don’t think so. You didn’t know me at all when you saw me in Arthur’s rooms. Maybe it’s just something that magic wanted and willed to happen.
[Pause.]
Merlin
My magic?
[Alba whispers into her fist. Her eyes glow. She opens her hand, a small flame dancing in her palm.]
Merlin [Whispering]
You have magic.
Alba
You have magic. You taught me. You’re my tutor, Merlin.
[Merlin steps away, hands on head. He spins, dropping his hands.]
Merlin
Does Arthur know?
Alba
Yes.
[Alba shuts her hand, extinguishing the flame. She speaks a spell to her manacles and they fall to the floor. She rubs her wrists.]
Alba
I hate those things. I only kept them on all day out of respect for Arthur, but they’re so cold, I couldn’t sleep.
Merlin
How much does he know?
[Alba blinks, surprised.]
Alba
Everything. Well, everything you choose to tell him, I suppose. You’ve always have things you didn’t tell me. You say that sometimes people are safer and happier not knowing everything that you know.
Merlin
So, magic’s not outlawed.
Alba
No. No, it’s not.
[Pause. Alba takes his hands.]
Alba
In my lifetime, you aren’t a servant, Merlin. You’re Arthur’s friend and you’re the most powerful warlock in the world—far beyond Camelot or the kingdom—and everyone knows about and respects you.
[Merlin backs up, head down, smiling and fighting tears.]
Merlin
I’ve been told something like that. [Voice cracks] But, it’s all destiny and legend.
Alba
You mean by the dragon?
[Merlin looks up sharply.]
Alba
I doubt he can see that ‘destiny’ isn’t what helps humans endure. Arthur respects your magic, Merlin, your power, and your wisdom and loyalty and bravery. [Lighter] You teach his children and live in this castle in rooms by his. You don’t have to hide who you are from anyone.
[Merlin sniffs, ignoring his tears.]
Merlin
Is he happy?
[Alba smiles sadly.]
Alba
He is. And you are. And I was. It’s the kingdom’s golden age. Order and beauty abound in Albion. It’s the best place I could have ever hoped to grow up in. I have you to thank for that as much as Arthur, if not more. You’ve saved his life countless times.
[Merlin looks up sharply. He backs away again, recovering.]
Merlin
What—what should I do? About Agravaine and Morgana.
Alba
Be careful. Don’t trust him at all. And do not let him know of your magic, at any cost. Playing the fool is demeaning, but Morgana mustn’t know who you truly are until the last possible moment, when you have the upper hand and the kingdom and Arthur are safe again.
[Merlin grins.]
Merlin
Arthur safe? Maybe you don’t know what you’re talking about, after all.
Alba
Safe enough…. You both live to raise me; that’s something, isn’t it?
Merlin [Seriously]
That’s good advice. You need to take it, too. [Earnestly] Anything related to magic, Arthur hates and fears. Even if you try to do something good, it can backfire, and if it does, you could keep Arthur hating magic for all those twelve years.… I don’t want to wait that long.
[Pause.]
Alba
You have my promise.
[Cut to]
[Merlin, smiling widely, walks through a hallway flanked by columns. He checks over his shoulder and continues. Suddenly, he stops, listening. His smile fades as he looks ahead of him, to Agravaine emerging from behind a column.]
Merlin
Lord Agravaine.
Agravaine [Smiling]
Merlin, isn’t it?
[Agravaine approaches.]
Agravaine
Why are you not with Arthur?
Merlin
He has dismissed me for the night.
[Agravaine stands in front of Merlin, blocking his path.]
Agravaine
And where have you been?
[Pause.]
Merlin
Running an errand for Gaius.
[Agravaine sets his hands on his hips. He and Merlin stare at one another.]
Agravaine
Run along, then.
[Merlin nods and steps around Agravaine. He watches Agravaine’s face, not seeing Agravaine put his foot out, tripping Merlin. As Merlin recovers, Agravaine hits him in the back of the neck, knocking him down and unconscious.]
[Cut to]
[Alba sits in a patch of morning sunlight on the hay-strewn floor of the long dungeon. The light shows her hands are bound before her and tethered to a long chain curling in front of her and attached to the wall beneath the window, allowing her to move throughout the cell. The two blankets from Merlin are folded beside her. Alba’s dress is dirty at the hem, the skirt splayed out around her where she kneels in the middle. Alba has braided her long, wavy blonde hair into a single plait with small, twisted braids of hay forming a circlet at the top of her head. A heavy bang and shouting make her start. Multiple sets of loud footsteps approach. A guard appears, hastily unlocking the door. He pushes it ajar and steps back as Arthur bursts into the room, followed by Agravaine, who skulks into the corner of the room. Anxious knights Leon, Elyan, Gwaine, and Percival press their way in, warnings to their king on their lips. Arthur’s eyes reveal his rage and he stalks toward Alba. As Arthur crosses the room to her, she backs away in step with him. She meets his eyes, never wavering, hands shackled before her. When Alba’s back hits the far wall Arthur stops, feet from her. She curtseys.]
Arthur [Straining]
Merlin is missing.
[Silence.]
Arthur
You knew this would happen. You said he would be taken. [Loudly] Where is he?!
Alba
I am not responsible, Arthur.
Arthur [Low]
You threatened him.
Alba
I did not, Sire.
Arthur [Yells]
You threatened me!
Alba [Quickly]
I knew it would occur but neither of us could have prevented it. [Emphatically] I have done nothing to harm Merlin; I never would. But I do know where he is. I will take you to him.
[Pause.]
Arthur
When?
Alba
Right now.
[Pause.]
Arthur
No. Tell me where he is.
Alba [Carefully]
I cannot do that, Your Majesty. I must be the one to lead you.
Arthur
How can I trust what you say? How can I trust you to fulfill your word? You haven’t done anything since you’ve arrived to make me want to trust you!
Alba
If you care for Merlin, if you want him back, you have to trust me. I’m the only one who can lead you to him and help you save his life.
[Alba watches Arthur’s outrage settle into coldness. She blinks, then looks down. Slowly, she draws from beneath her bodice a golden necklace chain. She pulls until a golden pendant emerges. Taking it in her fingers, she holds it up with both of her shackled hands to Arthur. He places one hand beneath it, leaning very close to her to read the engraving on the front side: ALBA. Vines and flowers weave themselves around the letters. Alba turns the pendant over. Arthur’s eyes widen, recognizing the Pendragon crest. He takes from around his own neck his signet ring on a chain and presses it gently to the gold, seeing the two dragons match perfectly. He looks, disbelieving, into Alba’s eyes.]
Arthur
Who gave you this?
Alba [Evenly]
Do you doubt it?
Arthur
Who gave you this?
[Pause.]
Alba
The king of Camelot.
Arthur
Are you saying that my father gave this to you?
Alba [Evenly]
That possibility bothers you.
Arthur [Loudly]
Of course it bothers me; he never told me.
[Pause. Arthur looks again at the necklace.]
Alba
You Majesty, speed is essential.
[Arthur releases the necklace and backs away. The knights can again see Alba around the king, the pendant clearly visible. Alba watches the king. His eyes rise to hers.]
Arthur
You will lead me to Merlin.
Agravaine [Suddenly]
Sire! Forgive me, but you cannot go. You are the king. You cannot leave the city to chase after a servant.
[Alba watches Arthur, as though no one has spoken. Arthur continues to hold Alba’s gaze.]
Arthur
He is much more than a servant, Uncle.
Leon
I’m afraid I have to agree with Lord Agravaine, Arthur. It’s too dangerous for you to go alone. Merlin would not wish you to come to any harm.
Alba
Of course not. Sir Percival will come with us.
[Arthur stands sideways between the onlookers and Alba, never taking his eyes from hers.]
Arthur
Why him?
[Alba cocks her head.]
Alba
Do you have any objection to him, Sire?
Arthur [Immediately]
No. But why do you want him, specifically?
[Alba hesitates. She narrows her eyes but they become unfocused on Arthur, exploring and considering instead the men behind him. She focuses again on Arthur.]
Alba
We will be forced to face wildren, Sire.
[Alba nods toward the knights.]
Alba
Who is calmest among them?
Arthur
Well…
[Arthur turns his head, examining his men. He looks back at Alba, eyes narrow.]
Arthur
Percival is. But you can’t have known that.
Alba [Earnestly]
Sire, please. Every moment is precious. [Quickly] I know, whether it is by guess or by some other knowledge: Sir Percival is best suited to come. [Louder] And before anyone asks, we will travel faster as three.
[Pause.]
Alba
You will only be away three days, Sire.
[Arthur examines her, then turns to face the others fully.]
Arthur
Agravaine, see to the preparations.
[Agravaine hesitates. Alba walks forward, to stand a few feet away but still beside Arthur, looking at Agravaine. Noticing this, he stiffens and leaves.]
Arthur
Percival, make yourself ready. Meet us in the courtyard.
[Percival nods.]
Percival
Sire.
[As Percival moves towards the door, the other knights clap him on the back and shoulders in farewell. Gwaine grins at him.]
Gwaine [Quietly]
I guess I’m not her favorite, after all.
[Percival smiles, but, glancingat Arthur and Alba, he stops. They are both fair haired and of equal height. Alba is watching Percival, impassively. He leaves. Arthur signals to the guard standing across from the open doorway, takes the keys from him, and unlocks Alba’s manacles. She rubs her wrists.]
Alba [Quietly]
Thank you, Sire.
Arthur
Come on.
[Arthur leads the way to the door. The knights bow. Alba stops, facing the three knights. Realizing she’s no longer behind him, Arthur turns in the hallway to watch.]
Alba [Serious, controlled]
My friends. I know you three care very little for me now. But there will come a day when you will know me and love me as much as I do you in this instant. [Voice cracking] And I don’t want you to suffer when I go because you will remember what has happened to me— [Lower] what will happen to me. [Restraining, earnest] So please know that I take your example, and all I have learned from you, with me. Thank you for being my friends.
[The knights watch Alba, awed and confused. She moves to follow Arthur but breaks off, smiling back at them. She shakes her head.]
Alba
I know. Rather sentimental. I get it from him.
[Alba cocks her head at the king in the doorway, still smiling. Arthur sets his hands on his hips and looks away, flustered at being teased. The knights chuckle, smiling and relieved. Walking, Alba locks eyes first with Sir Elyan on the far right, who keeps smiling, though hers fades. Then she locks eyes with Sir Leon in the middle, whose smile falls away with a few false starts. Finally, she and Gwaine, who is nearest the cell door, gaze at one another. Alba ignores the light, delicate tears that squeeze out onto her cheeks. She takes Gwaine’s hand. He closes his over hers, lifting them up. She squeezes just once, a steady pressure he returns until, too quickly, she lets go, slipping her slender fingers out from between his. She steps through the door, leaving Gwaine’s hand empty, hanging still in the air between them. It remains there as she wipes her tears away with that hand, takes a steadying breath that straightens her shoulders, and follows her king.]
[Cut to]
[Outside in the courtyard. Alba acquaints herself with the brown horse she’s to ride. Sir Percival, in chain mail and his red knight’s cloak, is tying his kit to the back of his saddle before her. Arthur is at the horse behind her. Gwen walks down the steps, crossing the courtyard to her. Alba sees her and smiles widely. She curtseys.]
Alba
I had hoped to see you.
[Gwen is bewildered, but draws herself together and hands Alba a bedroll and small bag.]
Gwen
These are for you. There’s an extra blanket for you—it’ll be cold tonight.
Alba [Touched]
Thank you.
Gwen
And the bag has food and a few bandages. Just in case.
Alba
I will try very hard to ensure we don’t need them.
[Pause. Gwen looks left, across Arthur’s horse at him, talking to an attendant. Gaius descends the stairs behind Gwen.]
Alba
You don’t trust me, my lady.
Gwen [Sharply]
I’ve no cause to.
Alba
I understand. And I confuse you, which unsettles you.
Gwen [Surprised]
Yes.
[Alba smiles, stepping forward to kiss Gwen on the cheek, her arms on Gwen’s in a polite embrace.]
Alba
You are going to make an exceptional mother, Gwen.
[Alba smiles again, moving around her horse to tie down the bundles. Gwen, startled, moves away as well, rounding Arthur’s horse with a sugar cube offering. Arthur turns to embrace her and she holds him very close. Alba busies herself with her bundle, hiding her smile and glancing up at them over their saddles. She does not see Gaius approach, but faces him when he nears her, walking between her horse and Arthur’s.]
Gaius
My lady.
Alba [Delighted]
Gaius! Thank you for coming.
[Gaius smiles. He hands Alba a small leather bag, which she opens and peers into.]
Gaius
I wanted to give you these. They are herbs for a variety of ailments. I’ve labeled them for their uses.
[Looking at Gaius, Alba hugs him.]
Alba
Thank you. Thank you for everything.
Gaius
Everything? My lady, I have done very little. I only wish I could do more.
Alba
No. No, you do so much.
[Alba hugs the old man again, this time remaining near to speak into his ear.]
Alba [Whispering]
You help Merlin survive. And what you now teach him,one day he will teach me.
[Alba withdraws, softness in her features. Gaius processes this, his facial muscles twitching. Arthur mounts, followed by Percival. Both of them look down at Alba and Gaius, holding one another by the elbows. Percival studies them seriously. Arthur’s confusion at their intimacy is tempered by curiosity and mild astonishment.]
Gaius
Take care, child.
Alba
I will. I’ll send Merlin back to you. You have my promise.
[Alba mounts, settling herself into the saddle. She wraps the cords of the bag three times around the saddle horn.]
Alba [To Gaius]
It has been the greatest honor to know you, sir.
Gaius
And I, you.
[Alba looks left to Arthur, right to Percival. Behind them, Elyan, Leon, and Gwaine walk out the front doors and descend the steps, stopping at the bottom. Arthur nods at Percival and they urge their horses forward quickly, horseshoes clattering loudly on the stone. Alba follows Percival closely, none of them seeing the three knights watching them go. Alba, in her white dress, is last to disappear through the arch of the castle wall.]
END