When Morgana’s life is saved by a visiting physician, Gaius is forced into leaving the court…

Anyone getting dragon withdrawal symptoms will be okay this week, as John Hurt’s enigmatic beast makes a reappearance – and proves that it can talk to people other than Merlin perfectly sensibly. In fact, talking is the keynote to this episode. It turns the focus firmly on Uther, Gaius and guest star Julian Rhind Tutt as visitor Edwin, whose backstory will definitely colour your opinions of both the King and his courtiers.

After last week’s dodgy effects, the Mill’s contribution is much stronger, although the creature that initially causes the trouble seems to change shape as it approaches Morgana – not a power with which it is credited in the script. It’s this lack of attention to detail that can let this show down, and pull the audience out of the story.

The series doesn’t shy away from discussing the fact that for Arthur to succeed, Uther must die, and there are interesting hints that Gaius may actually have a choice in the timing. Hopefully this won’t be too soon, as Tony Head is one of the main reasons for watching. 6/10

Paul Simpson

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