Probably one of the most satisfying season finale I have seen in a very long time in terms of character development and delivering a sense of emotional-Zen (I'm still bitter over Doctor Who and Torchwood). The plot was not great, the directing at times made me cringe, but the characters, oh, how the characters made me ache.

Merlin, oh wow, this whole episode is really all about Merlin isn't it? A Merlin who can be absolutely ruthless and terrifying in protecting those he loves ("I will make Arthur King, and you will never see that day."). For Merlin now, it is all about owning his own destiny instead of following the fortune cookie. The whole scene between Merlin and the Dragon had me breathless, and Merlin's final encounter with Nimueh was all sort of terrifying on heart-breaking. Merlin killed another person with his magic. He crispy fried Nimueh, supposedly one of the most powerful Magicians in the realm. I think, maybe, Merlin is beginning to realise just what his destiny will truly require of him. At this particular moment in time I can't imagine how Merlin will deal when Arthur finally dies, because Merlin can't save Arthur no matter how much he tries, no matter how powerful he is, that even when owning your own destiny you can only do so much.

This show may possibly break my heart.

Also, Morgana, oh fuck, oh fuck, can we just say the short end of the fucking stick. This can only lead to doom.

I LOVE Guinevere and Arthur! LOVES! Gods, show, keep up with the SLOW build up of their relationship. PLEASE! I can SEE how this will PLAY OUT! OH GODS, THIS SHOW WILL BREAK MY HEART.

You know, this whole season for me has been pretty much been about Arthur and how he matures from a Prince into a King. I think this was the first time where I was truly able to see who Merlin will become, and damn. You bet I believe this Merlin would have killed Mordred if the boy would grow up to be a threat to Arthur.

In conclusion; Colin Morgan you are pretty fucking awesome.

ETA: The special effects in this episode did not suck that much, that whole scene where Merlin shields himself against the Dragon's Flame was AWESOME! And it is nice to see Dragon have his own AGENDA! YAY!