ellarose88 Okay I’ve just finished watching it and I really enjoyed watching this episode. I thought it was pretty solid. The only thing that is annoying is the lack of Gwen in it. Really, I’m a huge Gwen fan and its sad that we’ve only gotten a few moments of Gwen being a strong and smart Queen. Gwen (and Angel) deserves more. What I liked/didn’t like: + I thought the plot idea was a great one. Morgana using Mithian was a good plan. The only beef I have with it is that in the past Morgana wanted to be the one to kill Arthur. So it doesn’t make sense that she would let Odin be the one to do it. Using Odin for an army makes sense, but allowing him the pleasure to kill Arthur doesn’t. Katie was brilliant acting like an old lady. Though, I’m surprised no one recognized her despite her disguise. It looked obvious that it was still Morgana. + Mithian was great in this episode. Sure, she was the damsel in distress, but she tried to escape and managed to let Merlin know that Hilda was Morgana. You could see that she hated betraying Arthur but she had to do it. All of her scenes were well acted and I only wish that Mithian had longer scenes with Gwen. It seems like they would have been great friends. I also have a feeling that Gwen would have worked out something was more wrong if Morgana didn’t take Mithian away. + Now onto Arthur. I’ve seen a fair bit of criticism of him and while I do see some valid points, I believe that we got some great moments from him (no doubt due to Bradley’s acting). Sure, he wasn’t just trying to help Mithian, he wanted revenge. But I think after his talk with Gwen and Merlin, then realizing that it was a trap he changed his mind. He realized the errors of the choice he was about to make and he offered Odin a chance for peace. He realized that killing Odin would just lead to more blood being spilled and that is a really good thing. Though, this may also be his downfall as well. My point is that despite Arthur’s failings, he realizes the mistakes he is making and tries to make it better and personally I find that great. People may disagree with me on that, based I guess on the inconsistency of him doing something bad, then good, and I get that I do. But then that is what we humans do, we make mistakes and then we try to make it better, be better people. And unlike Morgana, who is too consumed with rage and hate, Arthur realizes it and tries to do good for his people. + A/G - we finally got some scenes and that was great! You could see how much love and devotion are between them. They share the same bedchambers and I love that Gwen knows Arthur so well. I just wish that we will get more scenes of A/G confiding in each other. As to Gwen, I wish there was more of Gwen and Mithian because I just know if Gwen spent more time around Hilda and Mithian she would have realized that it was a tray. Our Queen has proved to be smart and damn it writers please write more of that. Overall, I liked this episode. The scenery was lovely, the acting was solid and well I just loved seeing Mithian and her father. I wish we got more of Rodor and some Gwen/Mithian scenes. Really they missed providing great potential there.

HumbleQueen Maybe that's what got me so excited that it overshadowed everything else, hapy. I was beginning to wonder if we'd ever see them in the chambers at the same time, so I was tickled pink about that, but they did it with her in her nightgown no less. I would have been satisfied seeing the two of them in the room in regular clothes, but this was a very nice step IMO. Not sure if we'll get them IN the bed ever, but for now I'll take this small step in the right direction. They're moving slowly with the married couple scenes early on, and we all want more, but reading ahead to what's coming there is most definitely going to be more between them. Personally, I'm glad we don't have to worry about all that misery and anguish we go through relationship wise whenever there's been an Arwen episode. I'm glad now that when we get to the Gwen focus, it will be with her as queen, Arthur's wife, and that'll be the Arwen I'm waiting for. He'll be talking about her more and to her more so early on we're getting it lightly. Hi Planets, and welcome to you!

Bonne-Bell Welcome to the spot, Planets.

kbrand5333 First, welcome, Planets! Okay. So I agree the episode felt rushed. That could be attributed to the time limit of the show, of course. I liked the little Arwen moments ("little" being the operative word). I liked hearing Arthur tell Gwen he loves her. Still don't get why he was dressed for battle while she was dressed for bed (unless they're into something kinky. They should definitely show us if they are). I actually rather liked the Merlin/Mithian interaction; I liked that she knew that HE was the one to try to reach. Would have LOVED to have seen more Mithian/Gwen interaction. Of course, the conversation I want them to have would have been out of place in this episode, but perhaps she'll be back (probably not). Arthur was a bit Cleopatra, I think, queen (okay, king) of denial. I think he really was doing this partially for his own gratification/revenge. Whoever said that this episode would have made more sense before last week's rather than after was absolutely correct. Excuse me, you're looking to avenge the death of the tyrant that tried to kill your wife 3 times, most recently from beyond the grave, as well as very nearly killed you? All righty, then. Glad there was no silliness between Arthur and Merlin this week. For the record, I have no problem with silliness between grown men. My own husband, as many of you know, is as silly as they come, and I actually find goofiness attractive in a man. But there's a limit, and when it becomes obvious that TPTB are pandering, that's when I draw the line. The depth of Arthur and Merlin's friendship was really shown this week, particularly in the final showdown with Odin. About that: Bradley was off the flipping CHAIN in that scene. Beautifully done, baby boy. Also, was it just me, or did it look like Arthur was mainly defending during that fight, not attacking? Like he didn't really WANT to kill Odin? It could just be me projecting, who knows? Magic reveal is necessary. It really is. That's the only way Merlin will be able to defeat Morgana. He needs to be able to exercise his skill. I do so love that he barely has to make an effort to do most things now. Rustling the leaves? Cake. Shoving Morgana back against the wall? Pie. The "earthquake" in the tomb took a little more, but it would, wouldn't it? One the whole, a good episode. Not great, but good. I'm looking forward to episode 6. 'Cause I don't know that we'll get much Gwen next week. Mithian's dad was Verucca Salt's father in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Just sayin'. It was totally bugging me, so finally I paused the screen and showed my husband. I was like, "Where have we seen this guy before? Picture him clean, in a suit." He got it in about 30 seconds, the darling.

ellarose88 I agree, the A/M interactions were great this week, the perfect blend of humor and serous discussions. I would have liked a Gwen/Mithian discussion as well, but like you said it would not have fit within the episode which sucks. Mithian's dad is also Emilia Fox's uncle in real life.

April80s I quite liked the (too!) short Arwen scenes. I think it's obvious that Arthur has a very quiet and powerful love for Gwen. I thought the final confrontation between Arthur & Ordin was particularly well acted by Bradley James. Oh, and I thought that the sword fighting scenes were really well staged and dramatic.

HumbleQueen I Loved the sword fights a lot also. Forgot to say that. The Arthur/Odin scene was fantastic as many have said. Such good reviews! You guys are so thorough.

Pocketgal Not a bad episode ... am so happy to see the King and the Queen not only in the same room but speaking to each other, and to get a declaration of love from other ... just lovely. I only wish Arthur had been dressed in his sexy, yummy white shirt as opposed to chainmail, and that we would have had a snog instead of a kiss to the forehead, but beggars can't be choosers. The rest of the episode was good, little things like Gwaine's grin, Leon the big strong man (could get into a Leon/Mithian romance) and the Merlin earthquake, all enjoyable. Obviously they are pushing Arthur's Bane being himself, but Merlin's wise council was excellent and Bradley James' acting, both when he asked Mithian had he wronged her in some way, and during the final confrontation with Odin was top notch and kick ass. So as the season progresses, I feel the eps are getting better, bring on what's next.

lailastar Like everyone has said it was a ok episode, not great. I t could have been with a little more romance between Arthur and Gwen. Him taking her in his arms for a hug even would have been better than that chaste kiss on the forehead. I especially liked the sword fight, Arthur looks strong, but where is Excalibur. I especially loved the scene of the two of them walking hand in hand in the corridor heading towards their bedroom ( indulge me please ) for hopefully, a welcome home, I missed you, glad you are alive, love you, private moment. By the looks of it no Arwen next week, so waiting patiently for episode 6 and beyond. Oh is it me or was Morgana's disguise plain silly, they should have given her a different appearance, like I said before even a blind man could see through that disguise, can't believe that no one saw through that, but then again it's the Merlin show.

kbrand5333 Yeah, at least give her a big ol' nose or something. OMG Pocketgal, I forgot about Gwaine's grin. I'm assuming you're referring to the one he shared with Elyan when he joined the fracas. That was awesome. And don't EVEN get me started on the whole Mithian/Leon thing. Most of you know how I feel about that by now. If that would happen I would DIE first and then accuse them of plagiarism!

famfan 1st thoughts: This was one of the best episode I have see this series. I really hope they give Gwen more screen time, having her and Arthur interact made the episode seem well round...

EPaws Laila Morgana is a complete joke at this point. I don't even know why they bother. She has always been a cartoon cut out but I think this season they have taken the characterization to an all time low unfortunately. Sigh. Gwaine's grin? I missed that must go watch later. Did everyone catch the Mysterious Knight of Sexy, he was in one of the scenes. The one we have all been drooling about since Summer.

Pocketgal yup ... definitely talking about Gwaine's grin at Elyan, and I am sure there was a wink there too .... I am guessing Kim that you are a tad protective of Leon/ Mithian, but after rewatching, his concern does seem to be slightly more than you would expect. My name is Bridget btw. Any chance of a fic based on the Arwen in this ep?

RosalynCabenson Great episode, best so far. Or let's say for me best together with episode 2 (Mordred *cough*) Why? well, Arwen scenes, enough said XD I watched it with my friend and was randomly joking "since when does Merlin knock?" My friend looked at me and I "oh, yeah right Arwen share chambers now" (had a long day XD) I think it was a great scene when Gwen quoestioned Arthutrs reasons for hlping Mithian and her father, she knows her husband to well. And how adorable was it at the end holding hands and giggeling like they were freshly fallen in love and not what was it 3 years of marriage awww I hoped for some more conversation between Mithian and Gwen but I liked the story, Morganas plan, I was wondering all the time what the hell she is up to. Of course she wants to kill Arthur but how. Merlin was adorable and clever an great as always and I liked Merlin and Gwaine coming to rescue Arthur...again XD I felt a bit sorry for Mithian when she tried to warn Arthur or Merlin and the evil bitch threatening her. Now I hope they keep it like that. Excited especially for episode 6 =)

sportyshuie Phewwitt ..... just saw the gif of Gwen in her nightgown and in the chambers with her husband .... excited already!! Off to catch the show and will be back later to post my review .... yes!!!

Melisey I must say I quite enjoyed this episode. First of all finally some Arwen in their chambers. :) I loved them holding hands and Guinevere sharing her wisdom. The plot was good. I want Mithian to come back some more. I also want her to share more scenes with Gwen. Merlin was great in the end, the earth quake was brilliant. But he needs to step up his game. Gaius said Morgana is not yet his equal, then I need to see that. I want her to find out he has magic. He also should have figured out it was Morgana earlier on. My unpopular opinion is that I quite liked Arthur in this episode. Yes, he is still far from the great King he is destined to be. That makes me think that there needs to be more seasons or they need to start making him into that King. I still think he is slowly getting there. He often goes by his heart instead of his head, which he did in this episode. That is his weakness in some ways, in other ways it is his strength. He is also very stubborn. But the scene between him and Odin was brilliant. I kind of liked that Merlin was giving him some advice in that scene. I was so proud how easily he took that advice. Clearly Guinevere's words from earlier was in his head. he still makes mistakes but he is learning, slowly maybe, but still learning.

faithlessducks why do any of these people listen to Morgana? She fails every single time!

EPaws Next time less of the chainmail. That is all. Everything else that needed to be said has been. More entertaining episode unlike the other three. I also loved what Dale did visually throughout. Less of the chainmail.

faithlessducks I did like how Arthur blew off Mithian's gushing over him.

faithlessducks Sheldon Cooper moment, if Merlin could see Gwen was the doe last year, why couln't he see Morgana in a spell?

kbrand5333 I thought of that, too, Danielle, thank you for mentioning that! The whole time I was like WHY CAN'T HE SENSE THE MAGIC?? And Bridget, you did read "Pleasure of Your Company," did you not? Mithian and Leon hook up in there. :)

sportyshuie YAY, just finished it and i have to say i liked this episode. Great, perhaps not but way better than the second one. Way better! Guess i am the last to comment ... What i liked; 1. Mithian's return. I like her and it's nice to see her in a more dramatic situation than the one she was involved in in season 4. Nice facial expression and her moments with Merlin and Morgana was good. Poor girl, was stuck in between her friendship with Arthur and her love for her father. Completely torn and she conveyed it nicely, gaining our sympathy. 2. Arwen. Allright, i was disapointed by the kiss on the forehead but rather than getting none, i will be satisfied with this for now. Besides, an epic episode awaits us starting from episode 6 with plenty of Arwen so i will be very patient here. And the bedroom scene was really romantic. Just the sight of Gwen, standing there in her nightgown, braiding her hair with her husband by the table churned butterflies in my stomach. Ahh, the romantic little me replayed that particular scene many time. I just can't get enough of it. 3. Gaius had better script here and for that he is forgiven for his previous lapse in character. I think personally he did good in this episode. 4. Gwaine. Ahh ... he is such a sweet knight. I'm glad they directors haven't altered his character and still cares for Merlin. And his grin ... missed it so badly but it's back. Typical Gwaine. 5. Merlin. Well ... i drooled most of the scenes Colin was in, :) but i liked the way he used his magic here. Awesome. And his scenes with Mithian was cute. And the final council Merlin gives Arthur is great. This is the advisor we want to see in Merlin and he is clearly progressing into one. Great acting by Colin. 6. And finally the king himself, Arthur. Shows why he is the king of Camelot. All the scenes with Odin was excellent, the fight scenes were awesome and Bradley was simply brilliant in his scenes. As usual he let his expressions do the acting and they served him well. I enjoyed Arthur's scene in this episode, every one of it. And i am happy he listened to Merlin in the end. I understand as the king he should be making decisions himself but when Arthur gets emotional, he tends to make mistakes and thats where Merlin comes in. And i am sure, he considered Gwen's advice as well. And the final stroll with Gwen, discussing Merlin is soooo sweet. What i didn't like; 1. Again, no Excalibur. Arthur isn't a complete king without his sword and up until now, they are still using the sword as the ceremonial sword. WHAT THE @#$!%!!! I'm sorry, i can't tolerate this .. 2. Morgana's makeup was ridiculous. Merlin's was better! She comes in with that silly makeup and no one recognises her but when Merlin walked in with his aging makeup, Arthur seems to recognise his eyes. Whatever!! 3. And i hate the constant use of Morgana's reason; to claim the throne from Arthur as she believes she deserves it better than he does. For the record, her first reason for revenge should be because she wants to avenge the death of her kind, the destruction of magic, the purge and etc as she is a sorceress. Next, she should be avenging the death of her sister. The throne thing shouldnt even cross her mind. Who the hell she thinks of herself? Arthur is the king and rightfully owns the throne not her!! Every week she is plotting some kind of trap for Arthur by assisting Arthur's foe and the reason is the same. I'm getting sick and tired of this. 4. Arthur's chainmail. He wears it all day long, even while sleeping? Gwen's ready for bed and he is still in his goddamn chainmail and they left for Nementh in the morning! I don't see any reason why he had to have it on all night! I really would like to see him in clothings like in season 1 - 3. Please ... lesser chain mail! well, that's it i suppose. My fav scenes; the chamber of course, the arwen stroll, the way Arthur yells at Mithian and my personal fav, Arthur's munching his food while in the forest. He was cute! Sorry if it's long and hello planets, welcome to the family.

ellarose88 @faithlessduck and Kim: Because the enchantment on Gwen and the aging spell are different. After all when Merlin used it in series 3 and 4 Morgana didn't see that it was in fact Merlin. One spell was used to change a person into an animal, when the other was used to age someone. So they are completely different and that (I think) is why Merlin didn't see that it was Morgana. That being said, I thought it was obvious that it was her.

Pocketgal totally agree about the chainmail - there is a time and place, and when your wife is in her nightgown is not the place. At least Arthur isn't wearing chainmail in the still where they are heading to the picnic Kim, have certainly read "Pleasure of your Company". It was one of the reasons I enjoyed Leon's reaction to Mithian in this ep.

MOPENDRAGON Loving all this brilliant commentary ladies and I loved this epi but of course I wanted more Arwen. I actually thought Katie did a good job, loved Princess Mithian, love the sword fighting scenes, Bradley's truce scene with Odin was well acted, I too loved the actor's voice who plays Odin, loved Gwaine's smile and wink to Elyan and I need more Gwen in her nightgown and next time with Arthur in his white shirt of sex. Can't wait for epi 6...I need more Gwen!!!