The Enigmatic Realm: Uncovering the Secrets of the Winter King's 13 Treasures of Britain (Including the Mythical Horn of Bran)

Warning: Major spoilers for The Winter King season 1 episode 6 below!

Summary

In episode 6 of The Winter King, Merlin glimpses a vision of the Horn of Bran, a fabled artifact of Britain. Motivated by this sighting, Merlin sets off on a quest to reclaim the Horn of Bran, convinced that by doing so, he will also unveil the other renowned treasures.

If Merlin and his allies succeed in recovering all the treasures, they believe it will grant them the power to reclaim Britain.

In the latest episode of The Winter King, Merlin experiences a vision of the Horn of Bran, one of the legendary thirteen treasures of Britain. Bernard Cornwell's Warlord Chronicles novel trilogy reimagined the tale of King Arthur, combining historical facts with elements of myth. The TV show, however, did not shy away from the fantasy aspects and portrayed Merlin, played by Nathaniel Martello-White, as a significant character. He acted as a mentor to Arthur (portrayed by Iain De Caestecker) while often disagreeing with the decisions he made.

In the initial episodes of season 1, magic has been relatively insignificant, although Merlin's foreboding visions of "Death of Britain" hinted at impending trouble. However, in the sixth episode, a deeper exploration of Merlin's magical abilities takes place, as he embarks on a quest to recover a significant artifact. He also reveals to Arthur that his newly acquired sword is none other than Excalibur, which he had personally brought from Ireland years ago. The circumstance of the sword finding its way into Arthur's possession implies a strong divine intention for him to wield it.

The Winter King's Horn Of Bran & Merlin's Quest Explained

Throughout season 1 of Winter King, Merlin has been lacking in subplots, aside from an ill-advised attempt to kidnap baby Mordred. According to Merlin's visions, Mordred is destined to become a bloodthirsty tyrant that will bring about the end of Britain. In an effort to prevent this, Merlin planned to take Mordred and leave him in a village, unaware of his royal lineage. However, Arthur thwarted this plan. Episode 6 presents Merlin with a new task: a vision of a snowy cave and the discovery of the Horn of Bran.

The Horn of Bran is one of the legendary Thirteen Treasures of the Island of Britain. These treasures are magical items mentioned in ancient Welsh manuscripts dating back to the 15th century. The Horn of Bran, specifically from the North, is said to possess the ability to fill itself with whatever drink a person desires. For example, if someone wants an endless supply of wine, the horn will provide it. Believing that recovering the horn will lead him to the other treasures, Merlin embarks on a quest to the wilderness in the North.

What Are The Other Treasures Of Britain?

The manuscripts consistently mention that there are thirteen treasures of Britain, although certain texts alter the specific items. Some even include Arthur's legendary sword, Excalibur, in this collection of magical objects. Presented below are the remaining treasures that are part of the Thirteen Treasures of the Island of Britain:

White-Hilt, the Sword of Rhydderch Hael the Generous - It is believed that when a nobleman wields this sword, it bursts into flame. Rhydderch was one of the Three Generous Men of Britain and was always willing to relinquish the sword to those who requested it. However, no one ever made such a request once they discovered its true power.

The Gwyddno Long-Shank's Hamper - A legendary hamper believed to have the ability to multiply the food inside it a hundredfold.

Morgan Mwynfawr's Chariot (Also known as Morgan the Wealthy's Chariot) - An extraordinary chariot capable of swiftly transporting its occupants to any desired destination.

The Clydno Eiddy Halter - Commonly referred to as The Handy Halter, this remarkable tool possesses the ability to conjure any desired horse when worn.

Llawfrodedd the Horseman's Blade - Armed with the legendary power to accommodate a table of 24, this remarkable knife surpasses expectations by serving numerous individuals simultaneously.

The Cauldron of Dyrnwch the Giant - This unique cauldron has the power to discern the brave from the cowardly. When a courageous individual places meat inside, it rapidly boils. However, if an alleged coward attempts the same, it remains unaffected, refusing to reach boiling point.

The Whetstone of Tudwal Tudglyd - Once more, another item designed to distinguish the strong-willed from the weak. Should a brave warrior hone their sword on this whetstone, it becomes a lethal weapon, capable of killing anyone it wounds. Conversely, if a coward were to undertake the sharpening, their blade would not even draw blood.

The Coat of Padarn Beisrudd - Another item that favors the courageous while excluding the timid. It will only suit the brave, not the weak.

The Crock and Dish of Rhygenydd Ysgolhaig - Comparable to the Horn of Bran, this remarkable item fulfills any person's culinary cravings.

Gwenddoleu ap Ceidio's chessboard - An expansive chessboard adorned in gold, where the pieces crafted from silver and crystal possess the ability to autonomously engage in gameplay when correctly arranged.

Arthur's Mantle located in Cornwall - This enchanting cloak bestows invisibility upon its wearer while granting them the ability to perceive their surroundings.

What Happens If Merlin Recovers All The Treasure In The Winter King

The Stone and Ring of Eluned the Fortunate, which Merlin appears to already have in Winter King, grants the wearer the power of invisibility, similar to the Mantle of Arthur mentioned earlier.

Merlin believes that acquiring the Horn of Bran, believed by Nimue (Ellie James) to be the most challenging item to locate, will be a catalyst for obtaining the rest. In The Winter King, Merlin asserts that by completing this sidequest, the collection of objects will bestow upon them the power to reclaim Britain. While this might be deemed an optimistic notion on Merlin's part, it remains intriguing to witness the outcome if he manages to procure them all.