Days were as swift as an indian arrow, flying by like a shooting star. Sitting on the sandy beach Merida and Magnus watched the waves come to and fro.
Merida just stared at Magnus wide eyed.
"Your gaze is direct Merida," Magnus smirked, "Do you find me handsome?"
"No!" Merida looked away quickly.
"Well then," He chuckled, "You are no more beautiful then I handsome."
"You think I'm pretty?" Merida asked quizzically.
"Perhaps."
Blushing slightly Merida shook her head and regained her composer.
Magnus stood up and took his shirt off, "Care for a swim?"
"Magnus!" Merida snapped and looked away.
"What?" He teased.
Magnus dove into the salty water, "Come on in Merida, the water is fine."
Merida hesitantly dove in, the water splashed across her face gently as the waves tossed her back and forth.
Magnus let out a sigh of relief for he was finally at peace but this peace would not last for long.
Slipping out of the shadows the Viking Longboats returned.
"Merida!" Magnus pulled her ashore, "Boats," He pointed.
"The Northern Invaders!" Her eyes widened, "They have returned!"
"We have to go now!" Magnus raced to his stallion, mounting him and taking hold of the reigns.
Merida, who was already atop Angus, "We have to warn my father!"
The two raced swiftly across the glen, both quickly dismounting as they approached the castle. "Father!" Merida shouted, "Dad! The Invaders! They are back!"
Fergus' eyes filled with hate and anger, "Prepare the army. We will be ready for them."
"Let me come," Magnus raced over to Fergus, "Let me fight with you."
"No my laddie boy, I need you to protect the girls."
"With all do respect sir, you have saved my life, let me repay my debt," Magnus explained.
"No!" Merida shouted, "Please don't go!" She begged.
"I have to Merida," He curessed her cheek gently.
"Please don't," She whispered.
"If," He paused, "If I don't return Merida, I want you to know, I have grown fond of you."
Tears began to pour from her face as she just listened to his caring words.
"Merida, I love you."
