Colin Morgan, the star of SyFy’s “Merlin,” said the main thrust of the upcoming fourth season is maturity.

“The characters are maturing and definitely going toward the stories that we know,” said Morgan. “Merlin’s matured some. He has gained more power and wisdom, and you see Arthur [Bradley James] actually thinking about what Merlin’s has said.”

If you are familiar with the season, you’ll know that one major theme of the show concerns Camelot’s current aversion to magic. One of the biggest chances Merlin takes this season is one concerning how magic is viewed in Camelot.

“He takes [the opportunity] and that’s a big risk,” said Morgan. “It’s one of the boldest decisions he’s made.”

Other signs of change include Morgana’s (Katie McGrath) dark turn. Morgan said that Merlin tries to teach Morgana about how to use her powers for good, but ultimately, his lessons don’t reach her. “You choose your path and he’s always chosen the good path,” he said. “[Morgana]’s just power-hungry now.”

A lot can be expected from this season–the show is now being shot in 35mm and has a much darker tone, but the dream Merlin has had for Camelot is still at the forefront.

“His greatest dream is to live in a land where magic is free under a great ruler,” he said.

Make sure to catch the fourth season of “Merlin” on SyFy Jan. 6.