Our list of the ten best episodes of Merlin launches with Season 2’s finale, ‘The Last Dragonlord’ in at Number 10.
This is an episode that takes us on a journey of discovery filled with plenty of emotions. When Merlin released Kilgharrah from his confinements after many, many years, he did not seem to expect that the old dragon would go on a killing vengeance spree… I mean, who would…?
If you put a dragon underneath a castle, there is always a chance that one day it will be either freed or escape from its chains. That is exactly what happened. Very obviously, Kilgharrah was going to be mad about being trapped in the same place for years on end and somehow take his revenge out on the kingdom of the man who trapped him. Thankfully, this was done very well!
This episode was one of many Camelot under siege episodes; the amount of times the castle had to be rebuilt in similar places is unthinkable! Gwen and Arthur have their moment *squeal!* and some fans could easily die of cuteness. Sometimes I feel those two needed to be shoved together and just kiss! However, we have to admire Gwen’s bravery. That woman will risk her life to save others; a reason why I love her and probably one of many for Arthur!
The main adventure of this episode is trying to fight off Kilgharrah and thanks to that, the realisation that Merlin’s father is alive. When we are introduced to him, Balinor (played by John Lynch) comes across as rather mysterious. Not just that, but stubborn and rather spiteful. Meeting his father was not as happy as Merlin thought, his own Father not even knowing he has a son. However, that does change.
When Gaius tells Merlin that Balinor is his father, it really pulls on the heartstrings. Our poor Merlin’s reaction! The betrayal for Merlin and guilt on Gaius’ part was almost too much to bear! Thank goodness they reconciled before he left with Arthur. Arthur’s injury, caused by Kilgharrah, was quite clearly going to cause some problems. The fact that the Crown Prince was saying it was “just a scratch” was clearly screaming out T-R-O-U-B-L-E.
Although, you cannot hate the little heart-to-heart that the two almost-friends have. Poor Merlin cannot reveal his secret about his Father so covers it up for something else; something both men can relate to, the safety of Camelot and its people. This is similar when their unexpected guest turns up in the night with information they needed. Of course, Merlin was very much intrigued to hear anything about his Father.
Merlin, once Arthur had succumbed to his wound, finally found the cave where it is suspected his Father dwells and he was not disappointed; even if he was welcomed by Balinor with a blade to his throat. When he explains the situation with Arthur, Balinor seems to drop his icy personality ever-so-slightly and uses his precious resources to help.
Over the fire with their meal, it is very clear that Balinor never knew he had a son; but knows who Arthur is and really despises that he is in the presence of the son of the man who wants him dead. As truths are revealed, Balinor reveals just how lonely his life has been and how bitter that has made him.
Of course, comic relief was needed at this point to reduce the tears that threatened to fall so cue the mighty Arthur Pendragon! He seemed to be a bit too happy with his marvellous recovery! But that is quickly lost when Balinor refuses to help and Merlin’s hopes of having his Father recognise him are dashed with Arthur’s impatience.
This changes quickly when Balinor decides to help Camelot after a few minutes. Merlin finally finds the moment to reveal that he is Balinor’s son; whilst having a lot of questions to ask. The emotions run high at this moment when Balinor hears about the woman he loves from the child they conceived together.
It is so heart-warming that it makes me want to cry! The tenderness that Balinor thought, and seemed to believe, was buried deep within finally shows itself as Balinor gets to know his son. Merlin’s giddiness is so cute; offering to take his Father back to his birthplace to reunite him with his Mother. And the opportunity to finally say, “Father.”
Of course, in true Merlin style, nothing remains happy for long. Balinor protects his son with his life and is consequently killed by Cenred’s men. Dying in his son’s arms was probably not Balinor’s idea in the way he passed. Tears could not be stopped at this point when we see our poor Merlin watch his Father take his last breath. Seeing his choke down sobs when Arthur turns up is just heart-breaking. What makes it worse is the fact that it seems nothing will save Camelot now.
The moment before Arthur rides out to face Kilgharrah with his men makes you realise just how much Arthur does rely and care for Merlin. “No man is worth your tears.” Unfortunately, we know that it is not true in Merlin’s case *cue gross sobbing*. Merlin’s bravery, as per usual, stuns Arthur as they ride off together; Merlin with no protection other than his scarf and hidden magic.
Once some of Arthur’s men have been crisped, Merlin is the only one conscious and has the opportunity to show his new power. After speaking in a strange and powerful language, Kilgharrah admits his wrongs and Merlin is very merciful; sparing the killer of innocents (a common theme throughout the series it seems). At least Kilgharrah will not be harming Camelot anymore!
As expected, everyone but Merlin and Arthur is dead and the Crown Prince does not question where the body of the “dead” dragon has gone once he regains consciousness. Returning to Camelot was a large relief, for us and others!
Uther is obviously glad his son is alive, Gaius is overjoyed that Merlin has survived and unlocked his powers, and Gwen could not be more relieved that her love is safe! Open affection at this point between the two is rare so savour it!
Overall, this episode was one of a lot of discovery. Merlin discovered his Father was alive, discovered that he was also a Dragonlord and could save Camelot with a few words. Gaius discovered that despite his betrayal to Merlin, their relationship is still strong. Gwen discovered that her love for Arthur is strong enough that she does not want to let him go.
But most of all, on top of lots of discovery, there were plenty of badass moments – and did we mention it was emotional?!
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What’s your favourite moment in the episode? Let us know below…