Multifandom One-shots

131. The Arrow of Change and Love - Merida x Female reader (Brave)

The Scottish Highlands, with their rugged beauty and untamed magic, had always been a canvas of adventure for Y/N. To the rest of the world, the rolling hills and dense forests were picturesque landscapes, but to Y/N, they were home—a place where ancient castles and misty mornings had witnessed countless childhood escapades alongside Princess Merida. What had started as innocent exploration had grown into a deep, abiding love, one that tradition and duty had forced them to keep hidden.

On this fateful day, as Y/N approached DunBroch Castle, her heart raced with a tumult of excitement and anxiety. The castle loomed tall and imposing against the gray sky, its stone walls standing as silent sentinels to the legacy and duty awaiting within. Every step towards the grand entrance felt heavier with the weight of what was at stake—the Highland Games, a competition meant to determine Merida's future and, by extension, Y/N's own.

Inside the grand hall, the atmosphere buzzed with activity. The Highland Games were more than just a competition; they were a spectacle that promised to decide the course of Merida's life. Queen Elinor's decree had set in motion a series of trials where suitors from allied clans would vie for her daughter's hand in marriage. The thought of Merida being forced into such an arrangement ignited a fierce resolve in Y/N.

Amongst the commotion, a familiar voice cut through the din. "Y/N!" Merida's cry was a beacon, drawing Y/N's gaze to the princess, who was rushing towards her with an urgency that belied her royal decorum. Her fiery red hair was a striking contrast to the muted tones of the hall.

Merida enveloped Y/N in a warm embrace, her presence a comforting balm against the looming uncertainty. "I was worried you wouldn't come," she whispered, her breath warm and laden with concern.

Y/N returned the embrace, her anxiety momentarily eased by the closeness. "And miss the chance to see you outshoot every lad in the Highlands? Never," she replied, forcing lightness into her voice while masking the flutter of nerves in her chest.

Merida's relief was palpable, but her eyes betrayed her inner turmoil. "You know I don't want this. But my mother—"

Y/N placed a steadying hand on Merida's arm, her touch both reassuring and firm. "I know. That's why I'm here. I have a plan."

Merida's brow furrowed in confusion. "A plan? What are you talking about?"

Y/N took a deep breath, her resolve solidifying. "I'm going to compete in the Games, but disguised. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you from being forced into a marriage you don't want."

Merida's eyes widened in shock. "But how will you manage? They'll recognize—"

"They won't know it's me," Y/N interrupted, determination shining through. "I'll be disguised. We'll show them that love and loyalty can defy even the strongest traditions."

Merida's expression softened, a mixture of gratitude and something deeper flickering in her gaze. "You're risking so much for me..."

"Because you're worth it," Y/N replied softly, squeezing Merida's hand. "We'll prove that true love and loyalty can break even the most rigid traditions."

As the sound of bagpipes echoed through the castle, heralding the arrival of the clans, Y/N and Merida shared a look of unspoken understanding. The fate of their future was intertwined with the events about to unfold.

Y/N slipped away to a quiet corner of the castle, where a makeshift dressing room had been hastily assembled. With Merida's help, she donned a borrowed kilt and tunic. The process was meticulous—Y/N's hair was carefully bound, and a helmet was placed to obscure her features. Merida added a final touch: a piece of tartan cloth tied around Y/N's arm, a token of trust and affection that would remain hidden beneath the layers of her disguise.