Arthur looks on at the funeral pyre.

He thinks of how it was intended for him, as Morgana had it prepared for his execution. He thinks of how one of her acts of evil was able to be repurposed for good. He thinks on how this is much like the ceremony mourning Lancelot.

There is no body in the pyre. Rather, Arthur has placed his own cloak and sword in the pyre in the body's place.

The knights look on, Gwaine in silent tears, Percival squeezing his shoulder. Gwen, to be crowned Arthur's queen the following day, is in tears. The difference between this ceremony and Lancelot's: Arthur allows tears to flow from his eyes as well. Looking at his cloak and sword engulfed in flame, Arthur thinks on how the night before, Merlin's death took with it a piece of Arthur's own life.

Arthur begins to speak of Merlin to the mourners gathered in the castle grounds.

He exclaims that Merlin was his most loyal manservant, his best friend, and a sorcerer. Arthur had already entrusted Gwen and Sir Leon, Elyan, Gwaine and Percival with this information, but drew the surprise of the rest of the crowd. Over the murmors of the crowd, he declares that magic is not inherently evil. He acknowledges that most evil acts that have been committed against Camelot have been inspired by revenge from those whose sons, daughters, mothers and fathers were so mercilessly slaughtered as part of his father's cruel campaign against magic. While accepting some of the blame for Camelot's dark history, he announces the legalization of magic and its open practice.

He remembers how his court had mixed reactions, some scolding him for his digression from his father's ways, other lauding him for those differences. In the end, the court had approved his decision. It seems it was the right decision, for the people, upon hearing the announcement, cheered and praised the King for his kind and wise judgement.

As the cheering continues, Arthur's mind drifts to thoughts of Merlin.

"Your Highness".

Arthur's thoughts are interrupted; he looks down to see a man in a light brown cloak.

"Declare yourself," Arthur says, as the man removes his hood. He doesn't recognize him.

Gaius, noticing Arthur's hesitation, says "Sire, his name is Iseldir, he is head of the druid camp."

"Is this true?" Arthur confirms.

"Yes, my Lord," answers Iseldir.

The knights' hands take to their hilts, as Sir Leon asks "Sire, what shall we do with him?"

Arthur smiles. "Nothing, why would you? Magic is legal in this kingdom, he is fully within his rights to be here." The knights back down.

"What can I do for you?" Arthur asks warily.

"Emrys, to you Merlin, is a friend of the Druids, we have come to pay our respects." As he says this, several other cloaked figures appear from within the crowd, removing their hoods, identifying themselves.

"We have listened to your words, and we have decided to believe in you, in your rule as King of Camelot and in your kingdom, and in the world you are trying to create. We believe that you will fulfill the destiny intended for you and Emrys."

Arthur, both honored and upset by the Druid's reminder of his and Merlin's shared destiny, says "I thank you for your kindness and faith, however whatever destiny is intended for me will have to be fulfilled alone."

Iseldir smiles. "Funny things, destinies," he begins as Arthur looks on, "They're unyielding."

Arthur looks to Gaius for clarification of the Druid's words. Gaius, however, seems just as confused as he.

"I'm afraid I do not understand."

"Young King Arthur...your friend, the young warlock. Emrys. Merlin."

Arthur looks on, still unsure what information the Druid leader means to share with him.

"He is alive."

Just as suddenly as the words escaped his lips, so did the whispers, mutterings and gasps of surprise throughout the crowd.

We see Gwaine's face, tears of joy streaming down his cheeks, the rest of the knights cheering behind him.

We see Gwen, who had been looking down at the pyre, look up. Her face very much still covered in tears, she gasps. She smiles with realization, squeezes Arthur's hand and looks up at his face.

We see Arthur's face, still wet with tears, as his eyes widen.

Then we see the classic, "MERLIN...WILL RETURN"