Chapter 27
It was early when Merlin woke up and he decided to get up and go for a walk, to gather his thoughts. He knew he would have a busy day ahead with the meeting and his mother arriving. He had slept well in the large, plush bed in the Pendragon Suite, he made sure he left the room looking respectable. He had only just come out of the door when he bumped into Lancelot.
"Merlin," Lancelot cried out, "Did I really just see you coming out of the Pendragon Suite!"
Merlin inwardly cringed, not sure what to do. He was conscious of the fact he had already told Gaius and Alice about his promotion against Arthur's instructions. Yet he knew he had to tell Lancelot, since the Knight had kept his magic a secret for years.
"Arthur decided I needed a new room as Alice is staying with Gaius," Merlin explained, walking quickly to keep up with his friend.
"I understand that," Lancelot smiled, "But Merlin, you must have arrived to have one of the best rooms in the castle,"
"There is more, though I shouldn't be telling you really," Merlin cautioned.
"Not more secrets Merlin," Lancelot laughed,
Merlin joined him seeing the funny side. "As you kept my secret for so long, I think you deserve to know,"
"Now that does sound interesting," Lancelot mused, stopping in the corridor.
Merlin backed him into a corner and checked that no one was around before giving him the news.
"Arthur is going to make me Court Sorcerer," Merlin explained, a smile on his face.
"Merlin, that is wonderful news," Lancelot cried, giving Merlin shoulder a pat. "You must be so happy,"
"Yes, but obviously I wasn't supposed to have told anyone. So you need to act surprised at the Round Table meeting that Arthur has called," Merlin said,
"So, who else knows?" the Knight asked,
"Oh, only Gaius, Alice and you," Merlin answered,
"You have only told three people then," Lancelot laughed, "You are getting better at being more open now,"
Merlin laughed, "Yes, I suppose I am, it still feels slightly surreal,"
"You will get used to it, trust me. I am very happy for you, you deserve this," Lancelot smiled,
"Thank you, Lancelot," Merlin said,
"I've heard rumours that your mother is coming to stay."
Merlin nodded, "Gwen said one of the Knights would accompany her to Camelot
"I think they have just left now. Hopefully after the meeting you will see her," Lancelot said, "I had better go and finish off before the meeting begins,"
"I will see you later," Merlin said, watching as Lancelot went down the steps and into the Knight's quarters.
Merlin suddenly felt lost and unsure of what to do. He walked down the corridor and eventually came to the main steps and flew down them. He could feel a sudden breeze as the first temperature of autumn made its presence felt. He decided to go for a little saunter around the court yard and pick up the mood outside. There were already a few people milling about. He watched as a few individuals were putting up some market stalls.
Suddenly Merlin caught the whiff of roasting nuts and decided to go and treat himself. He knew exactly where Mary's stall was and he lost himself in the crowd, taking in the scene around him. No one gave him a second look which made him feel happier still. Before long he arrived and was greeted by Mary's friendly smile.
"Merlin!" she cried out, "I haven't seen you for a while,"
"I have been a bit busy, something came up," he said, he still felt anxious about how people would react to the recent rumours
"I heard what you did at Camlann. They say it was down to you that the young King survived. I think for that you deserve something special. Here," she said, presenting him with a big packet of cooked nuts. The box had been smartly wrapped up with a red bow, as if waiting for Merlin's arrival.
"Thank you, Mary. I have certainly missed these," Merlin said, reaching into his pocket,
"No you don't. That is free. It's a return for everything you have done," Mary winked,
"Thank you, for the thought Mary," Merlin smiled,
"We've heard rumours that things will change, not before time I think," she said,
"How do people feel about it?" Merlin asked, intrigued to get some early feedback.
"I think most people are accepting that it should happen. Especially when they know how their King was saved from Morgana. Don't worry I will reassure anyone who is not. We need some new faces around maybe the Druids will return,"
"Thank you, Mary," Merlin smiled, "I'd better go,"
"Mind how you go," she laughed.
Merlin waved, and he relaxed more as he blended into the crowd. He took his time enjoying the nuts, as he walked. By now the crowd was increasing in size and vibrancy. Mary's message had given him pause for thought. He wondered if having someone like Mary working with them would be a good thing, on the outside. She seemed to have an intricate knowledge about the old ways. He suspected she had some magic in the family somewhere. She had always spoilt him from the earliest days.
Merlin walked slowly through the market, all of a sudden, a buzz seemed to take over the crowd. Her turned to where various people were pointing at a tall figure making his way through the curious groups of people. Merlin smiled as his eyes settled on Mervyn and his two companions. The Druid was bowing to various people as they watched him move towards where Merlin was waiting for him. When he drew up alongside Merlin, the sorcerer smiled,
"You seem to be making an impression," Merlin said, "Welcome to Camelot,"
"This was something I could not miss. When I received the message, I knew I had to be here Emrys," Mervyn replied, shaking his hand.
"I know Arthur is anxious to meet you as soon as possible," Merlin said, "I suggest we make for the citadel and away from all the prying eyes,"
Mervyn laughed, "I am well used to being centre of attention thanks to my father. Especially as I am now performing his role. I am more interested in how you are taking to it,"
"Thankfully, this has been the first real experience of it so far. I suspect that will change pretty quickly though," Merlin conceded,
"I take it you remember Cedric and Johnin," Mervyn said, introducing the young and old Druids who both bowed at Merlin.
"Of course, I do, welcome all of you. Let's go and get in from the cold," Merlin suggested, leading the way. He became aware of a certain amount of curiosity in some of the Knights, who were training in the court yard. He decided to take them straight to the meeting room. As he went up the steps Lancelot passed by. The Knight smiled as he watched.
"Lancelot, this is Mervyn who is leader of the Druids in this area. May I also introduce Cedric and Johnin," Merlin said, anxious for his friends to become acquainted with them.
"I am pleased to meet you all. I trust the journey wasn't too bad and you didn't have too many people gaping at you," Lancelot said,
"Thank you, for your greeting Lancelot. I believe we caused a bit of a stir but hopefully people will get used to seeing us around," Mervyn smiled,
"I am sure they will," Lancelot agreed, "I will let the King know you are here,"
"Thanks, Lancelot," Merlin replied, "Please make yourselves comfortable,"
Merlin suddenly felt a bit nervous as he became aware that now the hard work was really beginning. He was intrigued to see how Mervyn and Arthur would take to one another. He suspected they would get on, but he knew there were formalities to attend to first.
Arthur arrived shortly afterwards, coming straight over to where the Druids were sitting.
"Welcome to Camelot," Arthur announced, "I have ordered some refreshments for you,"
"Thank you, your highness," Mervyn replied, courteously
"Please, call me Arthur," he replied,
"As you wish Arthur," Mervyn said, "These are my two colleagues Cedric and Johnin. I am hoping they will be able to attend meetings if I am otherwise detained,"
"I certainly see no objections to that," Arthur replied, "Merlin?"
"I'm fine with it," Merlin said, he stood up as the drinks arrived and he poured some drinks out for everyone. "This seems like a good moment for a toast. To new beginnings,"
"New beginnings," they all answered.
"I really wanted to meet you as soon as possible as I thought I needed to say a few words. I realise our relationship has not always been what it should have been. I myself have done things, of which I am not proud. For that I can only apologise," Arthur said,
"Thank you, for that," Mervyn replied, "Though I may add that nobody is perfect, we too have made mistakes, for which we regret. The most important thing is what we do in the future,"
"Absolutely and with no further ado I will let Merlin tell you about our future plans,"
"Thank you, Arthur. After we spoke and Arthur decided to lift the ban on magic, he asked me to appoint a group who will control any matters involving magic. I wanted naturally to involve you, especially as in the days before the purge, the Druids played a key role in magical matters in this Kingdom. The group will also involve non-magical people. Lord Oakes will represent their views. As well as him, Gaius, Lord Blake and Alice will also be involved in the meetings initially. I would like in time, to invite other groups too, but I think for now it is best to keep it a tightly knit group at least in the beginning," Merlin explained,
"Of course, it sounds very intriguing and I agree that it is important to involve people who have no magic. When do you envisage the first meeting will happen, also will a new Accord be written?" Mervyn enquired,
"A new Accord will indeed be written. I know Lord Blake and Lord Oakes are looking at the old one. The first meeting will happen shortly and will include ideas for a new Accord. So, if you have any ideas please let me us know. I am anxious that every group should be represented on this Accord. The sooner we get started the earlier the work can be completed." Merlin explained,
"I am wondering Arthur, if following this path will make uniting Albion that much harder?" Mervyn asked,
"There are obviously some Kingdoms which will doubtless not be impressed. But there are also others who have already embraced magic, as you know. I intend once we re-write the Accord, to invite all the leaders over and introduce the Accord to them, then we can reassure anyone who is nervous about this state of affairs," Arthur explained, "I also have a meeting planned this afternoon, which I will be delighted if you would stay for."
Mervyn looked at Arthur intently, "That sounds very interesting. We would be only too happy to stay,"
"That's decided then," Arthur said, "Speaking of which I still have a bit of work to do. I will leave you in Merlin's capable hands,"
"Of course, it was nice to meet you Arthur," Mervyn said, bowing.
Arthur smiled, "I'll look forward to working with you,"
Merlin waited until Arthur had left the room. He felt this would be a good time to see how the Druids felt about what their role should be, in the new working order. He also wanted to know what Mervyn already knew about the old Accord.
"I'm not sure if you knew much about the old Accord. Did your father mention it to you?" Merlin asked,
"Yes, he talked quite a bit about it. He always described it as a contract between different peoples, who had differences in how they viewed certain situations. For the Druids the care of the land and the respect for those creatures who we existed with, was a moral obligation that we took seriously. Now, obviously sometimes that would lead us to conflict with those that saw the land as theirs to do with as they wanted," Mervyn explained,
"I believe there was an unofficial rule which said the Druids had the right to exclude certain activities in the forest," Merlin asked, remembering the little ruling that had Arthur grumbling.
"Yes, indeed. There were many disputes over who could hunt in the forest in the vicinity of our base. It was a very hotly contested argument. But once we started to push our weight with regard to keeping forest life sacred, the conflict would spread to other things as well,"
"We cannot let something like this happen again," Merlin cautioned, "People must understand and accept the guidelines on which the new Accord will be based,"
"I agree," Mervyn replied, "There was a signing after the original Accord was completed. Everyone who took part in the initial meeting signed their word on the document that they would stick to the letter of the law,"
"That didn't happen though," Merlin conceded, "There was a breakaway group which dissented, when they claimed that outside influences were getting too much power,"
"An important part of avoiding that from happening once again, is to invite those who have no magic into the process," Mervyn agreed, "But we have to understand that some magical people will not be happy about them being involved. There will also be some scepticism as well,"
"That is natural," Merlin assured him, "Arthur and I have already spoken about this. There will be suspicion on both sides, which is why people have to meet half way over this. After all, there are no clear winners here. Both the magical community and those who fear magic, have both suffered. Trying to bridge the gap between those viewpoints will be our greatest challenge,"
"With the people you have appointed, I am sure we can make a good start," Mervyn said,
"I hope you are right, time is the essence. The longer we leave the uniting of Albion the bigger the chance, that someone will challenge Arthur overall," Merlin admitted,
"Yes, there are some powerful personalities that we will have to bring to heel in those other Kingdoms," Mervyn replied, "I have heard that King Odin will be stepping down and his nephew Martin will be taking over. They say he is very like his father, so we should be warned,"
"Interesting times ahead then. Having said that, I am reluctant to pre-judge anyone before they've had a fair chance," Merlin cautioned. The one comfort he had, was that most of the other Kingdoms would be straight forward to deal with. King Odin and his nephew would have to wait.
"Before I forget Emrys, I would like to give you a copy of my father's original notes. I have had them copied by Johnin here meticulously. They may be used for a starting point in our first meeting," Mervyn pulled out a manuscript from his battered bag and gave it to Merlin.
"Thank you, for this Mervyn. I will be very interested to acquaint myself with this,"
The door suddenly opened and Leon walked in, an apologetic look, on his face.
"I'm sorry to disturb you, but Arthur would like to start the meeting shortly," Leon announced, "There is some food in the room down the corridor if you are hungry before it starts,"
"Oh no," Merlin groaned, "It's not going to be one of those long meetings is it?"
Leon laughed, "Time will tell. I will show your guests to the food,"
"Thank you, Leon. I will see you all later," Merlin smiled, shaking Mervyn's hand as he left.
Having been left alone in the Great Hall, Merlin started putting some extra chairs around the Round Table. His stomach was already tied up in knots and the meeting hadn't even begun. He wondered if Arthur was struggling with the speech, especially as it was usually Merlin who wrote them. He just hoped Arthur wouldn't embarrass him too much. He doubted there was any need to go over the top, but he already knew that the King would.
For a second he wished his mother was with him, if only to stop him wanting to run away. She, at least would speak some sense into his head, right now he needed it from somewhere. He wondered whether to go in search for Gaius, but was reluctant as he wanted Gaius and Alice to have some time together. He knew they had a lot of time to make up for.
In the end, he decided to have a quick flick through the manuscript that Mervyn had given him. He settled down and started going through the pages quickly, without really taking anything in much. It seemed a lot more detailed than Merlin had expected, but he was quite grateful for the distraction it gave him.
Just as he started to get into it the door opened and people started coming in. There were some Lords, then the Knights entered all smiling at Merlin. After them Gaius came in, waving at Merlin to join him. Merlin walked over to the other side of the table.
"How are you doing?" Gaius asked,
"I am so nervous. I hope he doesn't expect me to speak my mouth is so dry," Merlin moaned,
"Why don't you have some water," Gaius urged, pouring him a drink.
Merlin gratefully took the glass, but it felt as if he had a stone in his throat, the water seemed to be taking forever to trickle down.
"Sit down next to me," Gaius urged, pulling a seat back.
"I don't think I should assume to take a seat at the Round Table. I'm not a Knight or a Lord," Merlin whispered, suddenly worried about the protocol.
"If he's going to make you Court Sorcerer, my boy I don't think there is any problem in sitting down," "Gaius whispered,
"No one else knows, apart from Lancelot," Merlin pointed out.
Suddenly the door opened and the King and Queen walked in. Merlin noticed how relaxed and happy Guinevere was looking. She immediately smiled over his way and signalled for him to take a seat at the table. Merlin gave a quick glance at Arthur, but he hadn't objected, so Merlin finally pulled a chair back and sat down. To his surprise no one looked at him in shock. There was an excitement around the table, Merlin sensed it immediately.
Presently Arthur stood up, smiling at everyone around the table, before his eyes finally settled on Merlin.
"First of all, I would like to thank everyone for attending this meeting. I know things have been confused and unclear after I returned from Camlann. But after what happened on that fateful night, it was important for us to take our time and consider things. A lot changed that night for both this Kingdom and for myself. But having gone through the range of emotions, followed by a carefully considered approach of what should happen next, I have finally reached a decision.
For many years this Kingdom has banned magic, it has led to a certain fear or paranoia about those who possessed these very unique skills. When my sister began her reign of terror on Camelot, it seemed that magic was the root of all evil to many of us. We looked at those magical people with suspicion and distrust. Not for one moment did we judge them individually, it seemed easier to just assume the worst.
I myself, was as guilty of this as anyone else here. We had allowed ourselves to be convinced without really knowing it to be true. I found that out on the night that Morgana attacked me. When Merlin revealed himself in front of everyone and killed my sister, instead of reacting with gratitude, I behaved with cowardice instead. I turned away from the man who for years, had been protecting myself, this Kingdom and every one of you.
I still feel great shame that was my first reaction. Instead of facing him and thanking him, I turned my back on him. I allowed myself to become distracted from being the King that I was born to be. The only good thing which came out of that was the realisation, that I needed to look at the whole question of the purge and everything that followed it.
I loved my father and I always will. I know he had his faults, I also understand that when my mother died it caused him deep distress. But having gone on the journey I have, I can no longer allow myself to accept that the ban on magic was justified. To punish a whole people for a tragic happening was a grave injustice. It was wrong and I feel I officially need to make that clear to everyone. With that in mind I have decided that the ban on magic will be lifted,"
Merlin heard a gasp from one or two of the older Lords and for a minute he wondered what would happen next. But he saw Arthur was ready to fight any disagreement here and now.
"I realise that to some it may come as a shock, but I assure you I have not reached this decision without speaking with those who have lived in this Kingdom, and have a full knowledge of Camelot's time before the purge occurred. I would like to give my thanks to Gaius, to Lord Blake for all their work and honesty on answering my many questions. Having reached that decision, I will now announce another one.
I have asked Merlin here to become Camelot's Court Sorcerer. This man has spent his time in Camelot, serving the realm with both honour and a bravery that impresses me the more I think about it. I would often question his courage while we were out on quests, but I know now truly what a brave man he is. A man prepared to give his time and his powers to a Kingdom that treated his kind as inferior yet he never judged for one moment. A man who would always look me in the eye and protect me, when I was in my most vulnerable moments. In bestowing this honour onto Merlin, I do so in the time-honoured notion that his greatest moments, and this Kingdom's still lie ahead. I urge all of you to join me in welcoming him into the official Court,"
There was a brief pause in the room, until Gwaine and Lancelot jumped onto their feet and applauded. Suddenly, everyone else followed suite and Merlin could feel his emotion welling up inside of him. He dared not look at anyone for fear of it pouring out. The silence briefly returned until Arthur once more stood up.
"Maybe you would like to say a few words Merlin," he urged.
Merlin stood up and shuffled on his feet, he hadn't even made a speech but decided today it needed to come from the heart. It was the only way he could possibly express what was going through his mind.
"First of all, I would like to thank you all for accepting me as Court Sorcerer. I can assure everyone here, that I will do my utmost to protect the Kingdom, as I have done from the moment I arrived in Camelot. When I first came I knew nothing about why my powers had been given to me. But as I eventually found out I realised that at the heart of the Kingdom, stood a man of honour and integrity. It has always been an honour to serve this Kingdom and Arthur.
I know we will face challenges in bringing magic back. I understand too that some will harbour doubts and fears, that is only natural. It is for that reason that Arthur has asked me to form a group that will write up a new Accord to bind all of our people together. It will also involve those who have no magic, I would like to thank Lord Oakes for agreeing to represent those people. If we are to succeed it is essential that we all work together. There can be no secrets or agreements on the side. This Accord will come to symbolise not only Camelot, but also what Albion itself should be. An understanding of how all our peoples can come together and work for the good of everyone.
Our friends here from the Druids will play an important part of this initial stage. It is imperative that the first meeting is held as soon as possible. I will report to Arthur with any progress. Once the Accord has been agreed, we then have the chance to bring the Five Kingdoms together so that Albion can be officially born.
Finally, I would like to thank Gaius for all the support he has granted me over the years. Without him I would not have made it through this whole experience, my thanks also go to Queen Guinevere for her steadfast understanding and support for both myself and Arthur. But most of all it goes to the man I have had the honour of serving all these years. I have never regretted a moment of it and I as long as I am here I will always be at his side,"
Merlin turned and looked at Arthur in the eyes and for a moment they locked together as both of them nodded at the other. The look spoke of an unsaid vow of service and deep friendship, that both accepted in that moment and for ever more.
As Merlin sat down, Sir Leon immediately led the salute to the King and new Court Sorcerer.
"Three cheers for King Arthur and for Merlin the new Court Sorcerer of Camelot,"
As everyone rose to their feet once more and the cheers echoed around the room, Merlin this time allowed a quick look at Gaius. He could see the tears in the old man's eyes, for a moment he wanted to hug him. But he knew now he was officially a member of the court, certain behaviour would have to be abided by.
He contented himself with the thought that there would be time for that later. After a few more minor announcements the meeting broke up. Merlin walked over to the King and Queen, as they remained seated.
"Not a bad speech Merlin, all things considered," Arthur remarked,
Merlin waited for a sarcastic aside from his friend, but realised he actually meant it.
"I was a little bit worried about your speech too," Merlin smiled, "Having said that it wasn't too bad, maybe a bit too long though!"
"Well, you can content yourself with the realisation that your speech writing days will begin to double now, both for yourself and for me," Arthur grinned,
"I hadn't thought about that," Merlin replied, rolling his eyes.
"Seriously though, you did well today Merlin. I know there is a lot to take on, but you can be sure of my support throughout this whole venture,"
"Mine too," Guinevere agreed,
"Thank you, both of you for everything," Merlin said, then noticing Mervyn waiting at the door excused himself.
"My congratulations Emrys, on your promotion. It goes without saying you can call on me for any support," Mervyn said, holding out his hand.
Merlin took it, with a smile, "Thank you, for everything you have done. I look forward to working with you all. I expect the first meeting to be very shortly. I will let you know,"
Mervyn nodded, "Please thank your King for his hospitality, sadly we must leave. Something has come up at our camp,"
"Nothing serious I hope," Merlin replied, concerned.
"No, just a complication we are having to deal with. I am sure it will sort itself out," Mervyn confirmed, "I will wait to hear from you so that we can begin the hard work,"
"Thank you, Mervyn safe journey back for all of you," Merlin said, escorting them to the door.
Merlin watched the three Druids walk across the court yard, suddenly caught up in the new world that was unfurling itself around him. He thought back to the day he had arrived at Camelot, the thought that three Druids would have been walking inside the confines of the citadel was unthinkable. It made him realise that progress was already being made. Who knows what else they could achieve with time.
"Merlin?"
Merlin swung around to find his mother a smile on her face as wide as the Kingdom itself.
"Mother, when did you get here?" he cried, hugging her closely oblivious to those walking by them.
"About an hour ago, I've just had something to eat. Is it true what they are saying. That my boy is Camelot's Court Sorcerer?" she asked, emotion in her eyes.
"The one and the same," Merlin laughed, "Isn't it amazing? Who'd have thought this would happen. When I think how worried I was in Ealdor only weeks ago, it feels like a lot of time has passed between then and now,"
"I am so proud of you my son," Hunith replied, "I feel sure your father is looking down now and every bit as happy,"
"Which reminds me, Gaius gave me a staff from my father. We need to sit down, I'd loved to know what he told you about it," Merlin said,
"All in good time Merlin. Guinevere has said I can stay for as long as I need to or want too. The idea of being able to stay close to you is really tempting. But I would feel better knowing how you feel too," Hunith said,
Merlin took her hands in his. "You being in Camelot, is perfect. You would be so happy here. You can see Gaius, I'm sure you will get on well with Alice and there is a lovely community in the lower town. I can see you fitting into life here seamlessly. I can think of nothing better,"
"Oh Merlin, that is settled then," Hunith hugged him.
Guinevere smiled, as she watched the tender reunion between mother and son. She was so happy that Hunith had accepted the invitation and knew having her in Camelot could only be a good thing for all of them.
She felt immensely proud of her husband and her friend who had at long last was now by Arthur's side officially. She knew much work lay ahead and she was determined that everyone would give them the backing they needed. She was also determined that there would be opportunities for the women too. She had already given Arthur some thoughts. She felt elated that at last all the right people were now in place. Now the real work could begin.
Notes
Just a quick note to say there will be an epilogue posted next week to officially bring this story to a close. I will also explain what happens next. I hope everyone has enjoyed reading this chapter and thanks for all the lovely reviews.
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