The Hunter’s Heart felt very much like the calm before the storm.

Its twin plots covered the fate of star-crossed lovers Gwen, in her banishment, and Arthur, with his attempts to move on and initiate another relationship. Also, we were treated to some more of Agravaine’s machinations as he prepared the groundwork for Morgana’s upcoming move against the Kingdom.

Despite being out of the story for merely a single episode, Gwen’s return was a welcome one. There are precious few female characters in Camelot and even less that are on the side of good, but we couldn’t help but think that one of the other non-arc heavy episodes from earlier in the run could have lengthened the gap as she had barely had time to be missed.

After shovelling dung for a few moments, dumb luck brought Gwen back into action in an incredibly short pre-credits sequence that also served to introduce us to Helios (Terrance Maynard). Charming and apparently with an eye for the ladies, he would appear to be Morgana’s latest ally and responsible for Angel Coulby getting a long-awaited costume change.

With Gwen overhearing Helios and Morgana’s plan, she enjoyed a superb action sequence on the run, escaping guards and then roughing it in the forest. When finally tracked down by the Witch, her enchantment was terrifically cruel and cleverly done.

Meanwhile, Arthur’s plans to bring stability to the Kingdom included a political marriage of convenience with the beautiful Princess Mithian (Janet Montgomery), which he announced to general surprise and Merlin’s barely concealed disgust.

Arthur’s made a hard choice here, and it was good to see Merlin challenge him over it in an excellent scene between Bradley James and Colin Morgan. When they’re not playing at the banter, these two are very impressive together and with series’ shift in tone it’s good to see them tackle more challenging material.

Far from the gorgon we might have expected, Mithian is a fairytale princess. She is both beautiful and sensitive enough to see though the young King’s bravado, noting his servant’s importance. Much to Merlin’s horror, the visiting princess is treated to one of Arthur’s trademark amorous picnics. Fortunately for all concerned, a few magical slights are enough to undercut the rising romantic tension and generate an excellent comic moment.

Meanwhile, Agravaine (Nathaniel Parker) was truly murderous as he employed a successful gambit in order to lay his hands on the secret plans for his mistress. The devious Uncle is now blatantly open with Merlin, though somehow keeping the trust of Arthur. Surely Argavaine can’t survive the series finale, especially with Helios now on the scene and the obvious sparks between the warlord and Morgana?

Arthur’s decision to give up hopes of moving on would appear to lay the groundwork for Gwen’s return proper. What’s more interesting to see is the continued development of his relationship with Merlin, who seems to be gaining more respect for his opinion and wise counsel. We can’t help but think the balance of power will soon be redressed.

A solid episode which, while very much an opening chapter, offers great promise for the series finale.

Aired at 8.20pm on Saturday 10th December 2011 on BBC One.

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