Afanc (Merlin)

The Afanc is a supporting antagonist in the first series of BBC's Merlin. A golem-like clay monster, it can be created and destroyed by the elements: earth and water is used to bring the creature to life and can only be destroyed by fire and wind.
== History ==
=== Creation ===
The creature was made by Nimueh in the form of a large egg which she placed Camelot's water supply. When it hatched, it made a home in the kingdom's underground water supply, corrupting it and bringing a plague on the kingdom. Merlin and Giaus determined its nature through the latter's knowledge and books: being made of earth and water, it could not be destroyed with weapons. Fortunately, it was destroyed by both Arthur Pendragon and Merlin with the fire of the former's torch and wind discretely induced by the latter's magic. Its death broke the plague on Camelot and ensured the curing of those infected with the disease. Giaus recovered the remnants of the creature's egg and found its maker's mark, warning Uther that an old enemy had turned her eyes on Camelot again.
=== Legacy ===
After foiling her plans, Nimueh sought revenge on Merlin by posing as a maidservant in King Bayard's court. She poisoned a chalice with a magical flower and knowing Bayard (without his knowledge) would present Arthur with, however Merlin would drink out it when he learned of the plot in to save Arthur's life. Either result would implicate Bayard as a poisoner and enemy of Camelot and push the two sides into a war. However, thanks to the efforts of Arthur, Gwen and Gaius, they cured Merlin of his poisoning through Gaius' magic and Arthur retrieving the flower used to create the antidote. Now aware of Nimueh, a rivalry begins between her and Merlin.