Courageous Journey

Chapter Fifteen

Castle Dunbroch...

The Dragon Riders and their allies had returned to the castle and were surprised to see a compliment of soldiers mobilizing outside the castle gate and at the head of the soldiers was King Fergus and Queen Elinor.

"What's all this," Hiccup wondered.

The Riders landed on the ground while Merida, Anna, and Elsa reined their horses in.

"Merida," Elinor exclaimed, catching sight of her daughter.

"Well, time to face the music," Merida whispered, dismounting.

Merida approached her parents, while the Dragon Riders and Anna stood nearby. Elsa followed Merida, determined to offer support to her. Merida halted in front of her parents and took a deep breath.

"Mother, father," she began. "I know I disobeyed you, and I'm prepared for whatever punishment..." Her words were cut off as Queen Elinor embraced her.

"Oh, Merida," Elinor said. "I'm just relieved to see you're safe and sound."

"As am I," Fergus said. He turned to everyone else. "And I'm relieved to see all of you are safe and sound as well."

"But, King Fergus," Hiccup asked. "What's with all the soldiers?"

"When we discovered Merida and Anna were missing," Fergus explained, "It didn't take much to figure out they must have gone after you lot at the ruins. So I gathered up my soldiers and we were preparing to head there and help out."

"No need for that, your majesty," Elsa spoke up. "Morwen and Morianna have been defeated."

"Really," Elinor asked. "They're both gone for good?"

"They are," Hiccup replied. "And it was Merida who struck the final blow against Morianna."

"It was a team effort," Merida said. "We all did it. The curse of the MacCalister clan has been banished from the Highlands forever."

"Thank goodness," Fergus said. "Merida, even though you did disobey, I am proud of you." He frowned as he glanced around the area. "Say, where are those two rogues, Dagur and Hans?"

"I'm afraid they got away," Hiccup said. "Though I don't think you'll have to worry too much about them. Chances are they're on their way back to where they came from."

"Well, good riddance to the both of them," Elinor said.

"Aye, I couldn't agree more," Fergus said. "Well, you lot have been through quite a battle. Lets head inside. This calls for a celebration."

"Alright," Tuffnut said.

"Party," Ruffnut seconded.

As they made their way inside the castle, Merida stayed back with Elsa for a moment.

"Well, that went better than I expected," Merida said.

"It just goes to show how much your parents love you," Elsa said. "And I feel the same way."

Merida blushed. "Thanks, Elsa. By the way, what about Anna? Has she gotten over what happened at the ruins?"

"Not yet," Elsa said. "Now that everything has settled down, I should talk to her about it."

"Well, then, why don't you go ahead and go talk to her," Merida suggested. "Right now, she needs her sister."

"Of course," Elsa said. "But afterwards, I'd like to spend a little time with you, Merida."

"I'd like that," Merida said.

Upon entering the castle, Elsa sought out her sister. It wasn't long before she found her in her room. Anna sat by the window gazing out over the moors.

"Hey," Elsa said. "You know there's a celebration being planned. We should go down there and join in."

Anna remained silent. Elsa sighed. It was obvious Anna was still upset over what had happened. She had seen this before in herself. The days when she feared her magic...the day she had accidentally hurt her sister with her power. Yes, she recognized it all too well. Elsa walked over and sat down next to Anna.

"Anna, please, lets talk about this," Elsa said. "You know I'm here for you."

"I understand now," Anna said. "I understand what you went through all those years. I mean, I thought I did at the time, but now..." She turned to Elsa. "How did you do it, Elsa? How did you manage to cope with it?"

Elsa remained silent, thinking on how to answer her sister. "To be honest, Anna, I asked myself that same question lots of times. How did I get through it? How did I cope? And then, I remember how. You, Anna. Even in the worst moments, you were there. Your voice was always there to bring me warmth, even if it was a little bit. I'll admit, I never should have locked myself away. Especially from you. We needed each other. But now, I know better. And I'm here to tell you, that shutting me and others out will not accomplish anything or make you feel better. And just as you were persistent in reaching out to me, I'm not going to give up on you."

"But, Elsa," Anna said. "I burned Morwen alive. I know he was evil, but it was still terrifying. You couldn't possibly understand."

"Unfortunately, I do understand," Elsa said. "Anna, it's time I told you something. Something that our parents and even I have kept a secret from you for years."

Anna listened as Elsa explained what had transpired years ago when they were children, when Elsa had accidentally hurt Anna and what happened following that.

"So that's why I didn't know about your magic until the night of the coronation," Anna asked. "Our parents had Pabbi alter my memories? And...that's why you locked yourself away? Because of...?"

"Yes," Elsa replied. "Now you know the truth, Anna. I should have told you all of this a long time ago. But I was so ashamed of what had happened. You almost died that night, Anna. And for so long I blamed myself."

"It all makes sense now," Anna said. "But, Elsa, I don't blame you for what happened. You didn't have full control at the time." She took Elsa'a hands in her own. "No matter what, you're my sister, Elsa, and I love you. And nothing will change that."

Elsa smiled and then hugged her sister. "I love you, too, Anna. And no matter what, we're going to figure out where this fire magic came from and help you get it under control."

"Well, if anyone can help me through this, it's you," Anna said. "Thanks, Elsa. I feel a bit better now."

"Enough to go downstairs and enjoy the celebration," Elsa asked.

Anna laughed. "Yes, I think I can manage that. And I'm sure a certain Highland Princess is looking forward to seeing you."

"Anna," Elsa giggled, blushing slightly.

"Come on," Anna said, standing up. "Lets not keep everyone waiting any longer."

"Hey, there you are," Hiccup greeted the two sisters.

"Sorry we're late," Anna said.

"Actually you're just in time," Astrid said. "We were just about to eat."

Anna sat down next to Astrid while Elsa took a seat next to Merida.

"I take it Anna's feeling better," Merida asked.

"Better than before," Elsa replied. "We had a heart-to-heart talk and that seemed to help."

"That's good to hear," Merida said.

At that moment, Fergus stood up, raising a goblet. "I would like to propose a toast. Hiccup, you and your Dragon Riders have done us a great service. Not only helping to defend our home from Dagur and his Berserkers, but also ridding the land of the dark curse of the MacCalister clan. And, of course, that goes for you, Elsa, as well as your sister and my own daughter. All of you exhibited incredible courage and I will never forget that. From this day on, Clan Dunbroch is in your debt. Here's to victory."

Everyone raised their goblets, toasting Fergus's speech.

"And with that said," Fergus continued. "Let's eat."

Everyone dug into the food before them, enjoying every morsel. Despite her earlier despair, Anna found herself cheering up and enjoying herself. Her mysterious new magic could wait for now. Now, she wanted to enjoy every moment of the celebration with her friends.

"So, I guess now that everything's settled down here and Dagur's gone, we can make our way back to Berk," Hiccup said.

"And Anna and I will need to head back to Arendelle," Elsa said. "I imagine Kristoff and Olaf are worried sick about us."

"I wish all of you didn't have to leave so soon," Merida said.

"I wish we could stay longer, Merida," Hiccup said. "But if Dagur is heading back, then we need to get back to Berk and make sure he doesn't cause any trouble."

"And as Queen, I have my royal duties to get back to," Elsa said. "I've been away too long already."

"I understand," Merida said. "Believe me, I know about royal duties all too well."

"All the more reason to enjoy our time together while we can," Astrid said.

"I agree," Hiccup said.

"Good point," Merida said.

Elsewhere, Dagur and his men were sailing away from Scotland and back to Berks. Dagur stood at the railing, watching the mainland disappear. He never wanted to set foot in the Highlands ever again. Despite not having any treasure, Dagur took solace in the fact that Morwen had been dealt with. At least he had the satisfaction of knowing the hooded man had gotten what he deserved. Following the defeat of both Morwen and Morianna, Dagur and Hans had taken off before Hiccup and the others had awakened. Hans had chartered a ship to sail back to the Southern Isles while he and his men had returned to their own ship.

Dagur had never been more happy to set sail. He wanted nothing more to do with magic or Highlanders ever again. He was ready to go back to hunting and capturing dragons. At least that was something he knew. And perhaps with a little luck he'd never see Elsa or Merida again. Thankfully, there was no one like them in Berk.

Night had settled in over the moors and the celebration at Castle Dunbroch had wound down. After the fierce battle and then the magnificent feast, everyone was tired and ready to get a good night's rest. Not only that, but the Dragon Riders, as well as Elsa and Anna, would be heading home in the morning.

In her room, Merida was preparing for bed when there was a light tapping on her door. She had a pretty good idea who it was. Crossing the room, she opened the door to find Elsa standing there.

"I had a feeling you'd show up," Merida greeted.

"Well, we agreed to spend some time alone," Elsa said. "I hope you don't mind if that time is now."

"Not at all," Merida said. "Please, come in."

Elsa entered and Merida closed the door. Elsa wandered over to Merida's bed and sat down. Merida joined her, her heart thumping. For a moment, both girls sat there in silence, neither one certain of what to say.

"So, here we are," Elsa said, breaking the silence.

"Aye," Merida said.

They turned to face each other. Merida gazed into Elsa's eyes. They were such a beautiful shade of blue. So much that they captivated her. Slowly she leaned in, Elsa also moving closer.

"Elsa, wait," Merida said, pulling back. "I have to ask. Can this work between us? We both live in far away lands. Not only that, but...well, we're both girls. Can such love exist between two girls?"

Elsa responded by kissing Merida passionately. Merida was a bit surprised by her action but then found herself going along with it. After a moment, Elsa pulled away from the kiss.

"I don't care how far away we live or that we're both girls," Elsa said. "I won't deny the way I feel about you, Merida. I'm through pushing others away and giving in to doubt. I'm ready to listen to my heart. And right now, it's telling me to do this. What about you?"

She gasped in surprise as Merida pulled her down onto the bed. Elsa gazed up at Merida who smiled down at her. Then she leaned down and kissed Elsa, giving her the answer to her question. Elsa reached up and wrapped her arms around Merida as they continued to kiss.

Later that night, Elsa and Merida were sound asleep in each other's arms.

The next morning...

"Alright, looks like we're ready to go," Hiccup said, checking Toothless's saddle.

Everyone was gathered outside the castle gates to say their goodbyes. The Dragon Riders had their dragons all saddled up and ready to go. Standing off to the side were Merida and Elsa's horses also saddled.

"Hiccup, lad," Fergus said. "It's been a pleasure knowing you. I can't thank you enough for all your help."

"Anytime, your majesty," Hiccup said, shaking his hand.

After that, Hiccup and his friends turned to Elsa, Anna and Merida.

"Well, I guess this is goodbye," he said. "I never imagined we'd make such good friends when we got here."

Elsa smiled and hugged Hiccup. "We'll miss you, Hiccup. If you ever get the chance, be sure to come visit us in Arendelle. All of you are more than welcome." She chuckled as Toothless nuzzled her hand. "Yes, I'll miss you, too, Toothless."

Merida took Hiccup's hand and shook it. "Farewell, Hiccup. I hope we meet again someday."

"Well, you never know," Astrid said. "It's a possibility."

"She's right," Hiccup said. "And you know, you're all welcome to come visit us in Berk."

"I'd like that," Merida said.

"So would I," Elsa agreed. "I'd love the chance to see all the dragons that live around there."

Hiccup turned to Anna. "Hey, Anna. I know we didn't have much of an opportunity to get to know each other better, but it was a pleasure to meet you."

"You, too, Hiccup," Anna replied. "Hopefully if we meet again it can be under better circumstances."

Hiccup nodded. "Yeah, hopefully. And, listen, about your magic, don't let it scare you. Trust in your sister and I know you'll be just fine."

"Thanks, Hiccup," Anna said. "I'm sure you're right."

Hiccup turned and climbed into the saddle. "Well, we should get going. It's a long flight back to Berk." He turned to his friends. "Alright, guys, ready to go?"

"Ready," Astrid said.

With that, the Dragon Riders took flight. They hovered in the air for a moment to wave goodbye one last time then turned and flew off.

"I'm going to miss them," Merida said.

"Yeah, me, too," Elsa said.

"Hey, come on," Anna said. "I'm sure we'll see them again someday."

"Aye, lass, you're right," Merida said. "Well, we should get going, too. The boat back to Arendelle will be setting sail soon."

"Right," Elsa said. She turned to King Fergus and Queen Elinor. "Your Majesties, thank you for your hospitality."

"We should also be thanking you, Elsa," Fergus said. "You helped us against Dagur and Morwen. And for that we're grateful. I wish you and your sister a safe journey home."

"Thank you, King Fergus," Anna said.

Elsa and Anna mounted their horse while Merida climbed into Angus's saddle. Then all three rode off towards the docks.

Before long, they arrived at the seaside village and made straight for the docks.

"I'll be sure to return Wallace to the stables after you leave," Merida said.

"Thank you, Merida," Elsa said. "He's been a good steed."

Soon they arrived at the dock where the boat was waiting.

"I guess it's time for us to say goodbye," Elsa said.

"I'll go ahead and board the ship," Anna said. "Merida, take care. It was a pleasure getting to know you. And don't be a stranger. Be sure to visit us in Arendelle."

"I'll be sure to do that, lass," Merida said.

Anna boarded the ship, leaving Elsa to say goodbye to Merida.

Merida embraced her, hugging her tightly. "I'll miss you, Elsa."

"I'll miss you, too, Merida," Elsa said, her eyes tearing up.

As they held onto each other, a few snowflakes drifted through the air. After a moment, Elsa and Merida let go of each other.

"I'll be sure to write to you," Elsa said, wiping her eyes.

"Aye, me, too," Merida said. "And be sure to visit me when you can. And I'll try to come visit you in Arendelle. I would love to see your kingdom."

"You're more than welcome," Elsa said.

"Elsa," Anna called out. "The boat's about to leave!"

"I'm coming, Anna," Elsa replied. "Goodbye, Merida. Just know that I love you."

"I love you, too, Elsa," Merida said, wiping away a tear.

Elsa turned and boarded the boat. As the ship pulled out of the dock, Elsa stood at the rail, watching Merida as she stood on the dock. Merida waved goodbye, Elsa returning the gesture. Soon the seaside village and Merida were out of sight.

"Hey, you going to be alright," Anna asked.

Elsa smiled and hugged her sister. "Yes, I'll be fine."

A few days later, the boat pulled into Arendelle. A warm Spring breeze greeted the two sisters as they disembarked.

"It's good to be home," Anna said, breathing in the warm air.

Elsa nodded. While she would miss Merida, it was good to be back in Arendelle again. She imagined Kristoff and Olaf would be surprised when they got to the castle.

"You know, Elsa," Anna said, as they made their way to the castle. "I was thinking. About what we learned in Scotland about Hilda. Do you think there might be something about her in our family's history?"

"We'll just have to wait and see," Elsa said. "Ever since I heard about her, I've been thinking about doing some research on our family tree. Maybe we might learn more about the power I possess. And maybe even how it is you possess magic, too."

"Hopefully," Anna said. By now they were at the castle gates. "But right now, I'm just glad to be home."

"Anna!"

Kristoff came rushing out the gate and grabbed Anna.

"You're back," he said, hugging her.

"Kristoff," Anna said, hugging him back. "I'm so glad to see you."

Kristoff set Anna down and turned to Elsa. "I have to admit, Elsa, I was a little worried. But you did it. You found Anna and both of you made it back safe and sound."

"I told you to have a little faith, Kristoff," Elsa said.

"Hey, you're back!" Everyone turned to see Olaf approaching.

"Olaf," Anna said, hugging the little snowman. "I've missed you so much."

"So, what exactly happened to you, Anna," Kristoff said.

"It's a long story, Kristoff," Anna said.

"And we'll tell you all about it inside," Elsa said.

And with that, they all entered the castle, the sisters happy to be home after their ordeals in the Highlands.

"Well, Hiccup, that's quite a story."

It was several days later and Hiccup had related the story of what had happened in Scotland to his father, Stoic.

"Unfortunately," Hiccup said. "We didn't get Dagur."

"Oh, I'm sure we'll be hearing from him again, before too long, son," Stoic said. "I'm just glad that you and your friends made it back safely."

"You know, something's been bothering me, though," Hiccup mused. "The fact that a dragon's fire and scales were used to defeat Morianna. I doubt there were dragons in the Highlands. So, where did the Druids get them?"

"Who can say," Stoic replied. "Maybe some dragons did live there long ago. We may never know."

"I guess," Hiccup said. "Well, I suppose it doesn't matter now. Morianna's gone for good. And hopefully we'll never have to deal with someone like her again."

"Let's hope so."

Hiccup turned to see Astrid approaching.

"I for one don't ever want to deal with someone like her again," Astrid said. "Lets just stick with Berserkers and Dragon Hunters."

Hiccup laughed. "I couldn't agree more, Astrid."

Out on the Highlands, Merida rode across the fields on Angus. The Princess of Dunbroch was enjoying the clear sunny day, her thoughts on her friends across the sea. Someday she would see them again. She looked forward to that day. Especially when she would see Elsa. She smiled at that thought.

As she rode on, she suddenly found herself in an area she was unfamiliar with. She halted Angus and took stock of her surroundings. She definitely didn't recognize the area. She could hear the sound of waves and noticed a cliff just up ahead. She frowned when she saw something sitting near the edge of the cliff. Spurring Angus forward, Merida reached the object and stopped her steed.

"What the," she whispered.

Dismounting, she approached the object and saw it was a statue. It was surprising enough to see a statue all the way out here, but what was even more surprising was what the statue looked like: A dragon. And not just any dragon either.

"Toothless," Merida gasped.

To be continued...