Waking the Sorceress Within (BBC Merlin Story)

Chapter 71: Epilogue Part One

Anne's POV

Anne bounces on her heels with bubbling excitement as Arthur and Gwen wait for all the Courtiers and Knights to settle down in the Throne room. Faye and Euwen's small hands in hers. Faye, the older of the two, studies everything around her with interest, while Euwen isn't old enough to care, but Anne can't have him away from such a historical moment. Standing to the side near them is Geoffrey of Monmouth, who held a scroll in his hands. A document that, when signed in a few minutes, will officially make magic legal again, subject to guidelines that will hopefully ensure that things don't get out of control.

The document took about two weeks to draft and another one to revise, with lots of help from Merlin, Gaius and a Druid leader named Iseldir, whom they managed to find and invite to join them to make sure that the new laws are fair and just to his community. It's open to modifications, anyway.

Arthur hadn't revealed what was going on straight away. Ever since the return, Arthur had spent most of his time in Council meetings for large parts of the day. He never told Merlin or Anne what he was discussing, but whenever they asked him, he had a mischief glint in his eyes. He was definitely up to something. Eventually, Arthur calmly revealed a new document, remarking that if Anne and Merlin had any opinions on any alterations that needed to be made.

Finally, the room quietens down. Merlin gives her hand a gentle squeeze, and they share a small smile. Then Arthur starts to address the people.

"Noble Knights of Camelot, countrymen and friends. We have gathered you here today to announce a significant change that your Queen Guinevere and I have decided to enact within the borders of Camelot. A change that, we believe, will create a more just and peaceful land. It was not an easy decision and we have taken every precaution to ensure that the transition will be smooth and safe. I ask that you respect this decision and embrace it as the step towards a better future that Guinevere and I believe it to be."

Whispered murmurs can be heard throughout the room, and Anne tightens her grip on Merlin's hand. As exciting as this whole thing is, it's also nerve-wracking. Anne really doesn't know what sort of reactions to expect from the Courtiers.

Merlin gently runs his thumb over her knuckles, and Anne sighs to relieve some tension. Then Arthur gestures for Geoffrey to step forward, and the man does so with a respectful bow of his head as he hands the scroll to the King.

Arthur raises the scroll in the air for people to see it, then he lets it unfold. "Once your Queen and I sign it, magic will no longer be illegal in Camelot." He presents.

Anne can instantly feel the air grow heavy with emotions as she gazes around to look at the reactions. There is a mix of wonder, fear and relief on the people's faces. Anne gazes up at Merlin to find that he appears confident and steady. He gives her a little grin when their eyes connect, and he kisses her forehead.

"If used for crime, magic will be judged under the same laws as any other crime and punishment will be dealt out according to gravity." Arthur continues. "There will be a person in charge of overseeing the use of magic and ensuring it does not get out of hand. This person will be named 'Court Sorcerer' and he will be an equal to Knights and noblemen."

A big smile grows on her face as Merlin steps out of the shadows and climbs onto the throne platform.

Anne doesn't miss the gasps of disbelief (and some of horror, Anne thinks) coming from the people, but Anne doesn't acknowledge them.

"People of Camelot, I reintroduce you to Merlin. One of the most loyal friends that this Kingdom has ever known." Arthur states. He and Merlin exchange a smile and a handshake, and her heart melts. "He is your new Court Sorcerer and I expect everyone to pay him the respect he deserves."