Brave
A Change of Fate
A/N: Thanks to each and everyone for the amazing reviews! Hope you enjoy the chapter!
I do not own Brave. Disney does
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The crowds of people who gathered to greet them soon departed when they entered the castle. Merida didn't expect anything strange from the inside of the castle, but she didn't expect the homey feeling. The castle was warm and draped in navy colours. The furniture wasn't extravagant or showy. Instead it was beautiful plain dark cherry wood. Merida didn't want to say it out loud, but she liked it. It reminded her of her own room which was never extravagant. The sight made Merida's nerves lighter. At least she could feel comfortable here. It wasn't home, but it was something.
Braden watched her admire the surroundings for a while before speaking. It almost seemed as if he knew she liked it. "Would you like a tour of the castle?"
"Yes, please." Merida tried to say with less enthusiasm than she felt. She kept convincing herself in her head that she only wanted the tour, because she didn't want to get lost.
The castle was small compared to DunBroch's, but it was still beautiful in its own way. It's great hall was a lot smaller, but the walls were lined with open doors that lead to an extravagant garden. Inside the hall were two thrones made of the shiny black stone etched with gold markings. The castle also had a big busy kitchen and extensive library open to all. The last stop of Braden's tour was their bedroom. Merida cringed inwardly at the thought. She couldn't imagine sleeping comfortably next to Braden. Braden paused just outside their bedroom door.
"I know our marriage is unconventional and you know I want you to be as comfortable as possible. So I made some special arrangements for you."
"Do I get my own room?" Merida said with relief.
Braden looked at her sheepishly. "Not exactly. We still need to seem like a normal married couple. We don't want rumours running around the kingdom."
Braden pushed the door open to reveal a large room that seemed to be divided into two areas. Both sides of the rooms had large soft beds and tables. Two dressers and wash basins also stood on each side. Merida already knew her side was on the left, because it was the only one with a small vanity.
"Your things are already here, but if you wish to change anything you are free to do so."
Merida gave Braden a small smile. "Thank you, it's beautiful."
To her surprise Braden returned her smile and seemed to be truly happy that she likes it. However the moment was cut short when there was a knock on the door behind them. A girl stood behind them with her gaze turned down. She seemed to be Merida's age with hair as black as night. She gave a low perfect curtsey as they turned towards her.
"You summoned me your highness?" She said with a voice of a nightingale.
Merida saw Braden's face instantly light up at her presence. He gave a small respectful bow before speaking.
"This is Anna and she is your lady in waiting. If you need anything she will help you."
Anna lifted her eyes to meet Merida's which were the softest brown and filled with kindness. She was beautiful and Merida couldn't help, but notice Braden starring. Did they have a history?
"I expect Anna to show you everything about our kingdom. I would do it myself, but I have to be at a council meeting soon." His gazed turned to Merida and there was a sternest in his voice.
"You may go anywhere you like, but I have only one rule. Never leave the walls of the kingdom. It is very dangerous."
Before Merida could ask him why he turned around and exited the room, but not before he spared a glance at Anna. Merida pretended not to notice. Merida waited until Braden was long gone before speaking.
"What is so dangerous outside the walls? Wolves? Bears? Because I can handle that."
Anna gave her a fearful look.
"Your tale of the evil bear Mor'du is widely known here my lady as well as your bravery. However, I fear that not even you can face the monsters in the woods."
Merida was surprise that the people knew of her tale, but that was not what peaked her interest.
"Monsters?" She asked.
Anna nodded gravely. "Wolves the size of bears, witches that steal your skin and even humans with a thirst for blood."
Merida would have laughed at the stories if it weren't for Anna's fearful look. These were stories mothers told naughty children to make them behave. Anna shook her head as if to get the thoughts out. She then gave a reassuring smile at Merida.
"What would you like to do first my lady?"
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Hope you enjoyed the chapter!
