That's right I'm back and after so long I finally updated this fanfic, but can you really blame me? The moment 2020 came everything change in the world, how we live, how we interact with everyone, and especially how so many people are dying from Covid19, and if it's not from the virus, it's other diseases/cancer/etc. and if it's not that it's kidnapping, murder, natural disasters, it just never ends.

I want to give my condolences to all of you who have lost someone from this, and I'm know that all of you must be going through something that I could never understand. But just know that you're not alone, you're not the only one going through these hard times, we all are, and the only thing we can do is keep doing our best to move forward and keep living in this crazy world.

Responses from Review

lycan13

Yeah. They really are CUTE

avatargrl11

Even if you don't like Iona, I hope you still like the fanfic

I'll do my best to show Merida's potential in the story.

jimecaba712

Here you go!

Anniversary

Thank you so, very, very much for this.

And me and my family are safe and healthy thanks to God

Momijifan Low-Ki

Toothless will be the voice reason for everyone in this fanfic XD

And thanks, I feel so relieved that the argument scene was to your liking.

Althea Sirius

Thank you but after thinking about it for a REALLY, REALLY, REALLY, long time, I have decided what kind of dragon Merida will have.

Wonder which dragon it is? You'll just have to wait and see

warlocktoungue

I will never give up on this story no matter what. I am determine to finsh it till the end.

I'll keep trying my best with my grammar

Guest #1

Aww you're making me blush!

It makes me so happy that you love this Mericcup fanfic, and I hope you enjoy this chapter as well :)

And as for your question, I guess you could say that, but not in the way you think

reaganrose1315

Thank you! I hope you're doing well

Mimmi-123

I'm alive and healthy thanks to the Lord.

I hope you are safe and sound.

Lelouch-Strife

I'll think about it

warlocktoungue

Maybe... Maybe not...

9655

Then I hope I hope I get your FULL ATTENTION after this chapter

"ENJOY!"

Chapter 10

After minutes of walking in silence through the woods and seeing nothing but trees, birds, and squirrels, the two Vikings and Night Fury have arrive at the top of the cove.

Merida place a hand on her waist and asked "Well haur we are. Whit happens now?"

Hiccup gave a sigh and scratch his head "Now I get Toothless down there. That is if he lets me" he mumble that last part and looks nervously at the dragon "Toothless, we have to get you back to the cove. So uh, y-you want to fly back down?"

The Night Fury merely blinked at Hiccup as if he didn't understand what he said, but Toothless surprise both of them by moving forward and gestured with his head for the Viking boy to get on. Hiccup and Merida had the same unbelievable expression on their faces, after everything that happened earlier, neither of them thought that the dragon will actually listen.

"Oh so NOW you decide to listen to me" said Hiccup sarcastically with a slight glare.

Toothless merely narrowed his acid green eyes at him and moved his head again telling the boy to 'get on already'. Hiccup rolled his eyes and just got on the saddle wanted to get this over with, then he mentally hit himself as he forgot to tie the rope on his left foot, but was surprise to see the redhead girl grab the rope and tied it for him. Hiccup nodded in thanks and Merida nodded back then turn around to walk down to the cove whoever she was once again unable to continue because of the black dragon blocking her path.

Hiccup groaned "Toothless"

"Haur we go again" muttered Merida as she face palmed and looked at the at dragon in the eye "Toothless Aam not leavin' , Aam just gonnae enter th' other way". She pointed at the entrance that she and tween boy use to get in and out, hoping that he understands.

"Toothless" The Night Fury turn his head to towards Hiccup "She's going down from the other side and we are going down by flying. Just let her pass and she'll be right down at the cove. Please".

Toothless looked between the boy and girl still feeling unsure since he was certain that the Viking girl will try to run away again the moment he takes his eyes off of her. But if she did try something he could easily stop her. After a few more seconds of suspense the Night fury moved away to allow the Viking girl to pass, which made both of them feel relieved that the dragon was listening.

As Merida marched her way down she had a strange nagging feeling behind her neck 'Why do Ah feel like Aam bein' watch?' She thought. When she turn her head her suspicion were indeed correct, the Night Fury was standing there keeping a sharp eye on her, and when she looked to the Viking boy he simply shrug his shoulders. Merida didn't need to know the reason why, it's quite obvious that the dragon was doing that just in case she thinks of making a quick escape 'He's persistent, I'll give heem that'

As soon as the red hair girl was no longer on the Night Fury's sight, he turn his gaze at the cave, a moment later he sees Merida come out from the tunnel and making her way down.

"Alright" voiced Hiccup as he connected the belt to the saddle "Let's go Toothless"

Toothless starts backing up and then runs forward, when he reach the edge he jump off and dived down. And right on time the Viking boy pulled his foot, opened the fin and soon flew up high into the air. Merida couldn't help but smiled as she sees them sore up above her. The Viking boy moved his foot and change the position to fly them down to the cove "Alright Bud just like we-Whoa!"

The prosthetic fin suddenly closed which made them fly off balance. Hiccup moved his foot in different positions until he manage to open the fin which gave him and Toothless back their control, but they were already close to the ground and knew that it was going to be a rough landing.

Toothless only manage to stay on the air long enough to land on a specific spot, then he used his claws to dig into the dirt and slide on the solid dirt until they completely stop. When he felt that they were no longer moving Hiccup opened his eyes and made a sigh, feeling glad that manage to land safely "Nice work bud" he praise and the dragon nodded as if telling him the same thing.

Merida walked towards the two and spoke "Ye both improve"

"I guess" said Hiccup as he untied the rope from his foot and then got off the saddle "But we had worst landings then that". He look over the fin and was glad to see it undamaged. He then proceeded to unstrapping the saddle and the fin off Toothless, since they had enough practice for today.

After all the objects were off of him, the Night Fury stretch his whole body feeling so much relief. Toothless didn't mind having to wear the items since the human boy uses them in order for them to fly, but was still trying his best to get used to them all the time.

"Toothless"

The dragon turn his attention to the human boy and notice from his facial expression that he was nervous about something.

"Me and Merida have to go, t-that is we uh… We have to leave and go back to the village" He says.

Toothless understood what the boy meant as his eyes became fierce and made low growl, Hiccup raise both hands up trying to calm the dragon down and slowly got close to him. Without hesitation the he placed his left hand on the dragon's head, Hiccup didn't get a lash out from Toothless and was relief to see that he stop growling.

"I'm sorry bud, but we have to go" said Hiccup trying to reason with him "If we don't go back people will start looking for us, and they might find us here… They might find you here. And I don't want you to be in danger if you can't fly your way out without me"

Toothless narrow eyes went back to normal as he calmed down, he didn't understand much but knew that they needed to go back and he could tell by the auburn boy's eyes that he was worried over him. Hiccup patted him on the head softly "Don't worry I'll come back, I always do. And I'll bring you back more fish like always"

The Night Fury was quiet as he was considering of letting the Viking boy go but then his gaze went from him to the human girl. When their eyes met Merida had a feeling what the dragon was thinking "I will come back as well. Both of us will" she says with much honesty.

After a few more seconds of silence the Night Fury nodded his head which made Hiccup and Merida give a big sigh of relief that the Night Fury was letting them go. Toothless knew that he couldn't keep the two humans here forever, but could if he wanted to. Besides if they don't come back he could just go and get them, that is once he figures out a way to get out of the cove without the items.

Both Hiccup and Merida made their way up to the entrance while carrying the saddle, fin and basket. When they reach the top they both see Toothless laid down with his head on his front paws and watching them leave.

"Does he intend tae stay thaur until we returned?" Merida wondered.

Hiccup shrug his shoulders "Probably"

They both waved at the dragon and entered the tunnel. Seconds later they existed to the other side and continued walking, but before they could go back the Viking boy just had to do something first.

"Merida"

The redhead Viking stopped in her tracks and turn to see the auburn boy a few feet behind her with a pensive look.

"I'm going to visit Toothless in the afternoon. I can't promise you that he won't try to find a way to get out cove and to find you" informed Hiccup.

"Ah know" She said knowing what the dragon is capable of.

"Then will you, t-that is, will we be able to be in the same place without fighting?" Hiccup questioned.

Merida didn't say anything because she already knew the answer to that and so did the Viking boy.

Hiccup let out a huff and scratch his head "Look Toothless doesn't like it, and I don't like it either. And I know something is bothering you, and I get that you don't want to talk about it but if we don't then there's no point in us being in the same place together"

The red-haired Viking girl still didn't say anything which only made the teen boy feel a bit frustrated "Are you really that upset about that night? About what Snotlout said?" Hiccup asked loudly "He's just a big jerk that says dumb stuff all the time, why are you taking it so-"

"It's not Snotlout!" yelled out Merida surprising the auburn boy but she couldn't keep her anger from showing "Aye! Yoo're right! That night at th' Great Hall still upsets me, but it's not Snotlout! It's not heem!"

"Then what is?"

"Ye!"

Hiccup was taken aback by that "W-What?"

"After what happened at dragon trainin' , everyone thinks Aam a weak failure for lettin' mah guard down an' allowed myself tae get pin down by a dragon" Merida answered, as she grip her hand on her arm feeling frustrated by just remembering it "And what's worse, they see me as naethin more than a maiden who's only useful tae be th' underling of the Chief's son"

After saying that last part with much bitterness the red hair girl turn away from the Viking boy, who just stood there quietly with a hurt expression. The Viking girl let out a tired sigh and spoke "Are ye satisfied now?That's what's been botherin' me all thes time. Sae now thaur willnae be any more fightin' between us, right?"

"Y-Yes" was all Hiccup could say.

"Good"

With all that said Merida began walking ahead, Hiccup waited until there was distance good amount of between them and then moved forward.

~0~

After both Viking teens arrive at the village they went their separate ways and agreed to meet before sunset to visit the Night Fury. The auburn boy entered his home and went up to his room, as soon as his feet reach the edge of his bed the Viking boy took off his boots, fur vest and laid down on the wooden platform.

Hiccup gaze up at the ceiling above him as if it was the most interesting thing to watch, but really he couldn't stop thinking about what happened today, from the test flight, to Toothless keeping them as hostages, and worst of all Merida was upset with him. The reason for her being so being so upset, and their fights was all because of him. Of course it didn't surprise him, if anything it makes total sense, after all he's nothing but a useless walking fishbone that ruins everything. It stands to reason that he was the caused of them having problems. Hiccup wouldn't even blame Merida if she doesn't want to be around him anymore, or friends for that matter. After all it's not the first time that it would happen. He let out a long big sigh as he allowed his body to relax and prepared himself to sleep and not do anything for a while.

"Hiccup!"

But apparently the Gods have a good fill day to kick him whenever he is down. The Viking boy reluctantly got up and went down stairs and saw none other his teacher, Gobber who welcomed himself in "Ah there you are! Hope I wasn't disturbing you?"

"Oh no I was just laying down for a nap" Hiccup said with sarcasm.

"Good because I need your help, the sheep got loose again. While I fix the fence, I need you to keep an eye on them" said Gobber.

Hiccup nodded "Give me a second to put on my boots"

"Atta boy, and while we're at it I could give you a few pointers for tomorrow's training"

"I can hardly wait" mumble Hiccup.

At Gothi's house...

Merida was on the floor leaning her back on the wooden chest at the end of her bed, she had her knees close to her chest and her arms wrapped around them. She was feeling so much anger for what happened earlier and also guilt for what she said to Hiccup. She didn't mean for it to come out like that, if she had to be completely honest she was just mad at herself than she is at the Viking boy. From the moment dragon training began she wanted to prove to Anma that she can fight against a dragon by herself without any help, and show everyone in the village that she has what it take to be a real Shield Viking maiden, even if she was an outsider. But because she let herself wide open for the Gronckle to tackle her, everyone now sees her as a damsel in distress who was save by Berks unlikely hero, Hiccup the walking fishbone. She was only a little upset with him for how he told everyone that she was useful for his "brilliant" plan in taking down the dragon. But he's not at fault that she didn't do well in the arena, she should have done better at handling the dragon all on her own

'Ah shouldn't have said that tae heem' thought Merida knowing that the auburn boy must be crush by what she said 'Why dae we always end up like this?'

She heard a knock on her door and and spoke out loud "Come in!"

And no surprise it was the elder Gothi that entered but had a very displeased look on her face. Merida was a bit confuse to why the elder look upset until she realize that she was supposed to do her chores as soon as she was done practicing her archery.

Merida quickly go up and was going to say something but received a hard whack on the head from Gothi's staff.

"Oww!" She cried out holding her head in pain. Gothi stare at the teen girl waiting to hear the reason for being late. Obviously the redhead Viking can't tell her that she was late because she was hanging out with Hiccup, not to mention being held captive by an overgrown fire breathing black lizard.

"Aam sorry. Ah was practicin' mah archery and lost track of time again" spoke Merida knowing that the elder would buy the lie, since it's not the first time it happened.

Gothi shook her head and just pointed her finger out the door.

"Can Ah rest a for a wee bit, before Ah-OW!" Merida was hit again by the elder's staff taking that as a no "Alright! Alright! Ah will do mah chores!"

~0~

The afternoon couldn't have come much sooner as the sky began to change from blue to red and dark orange.

Hiccup was making his way to the cove carrying as usual a basket of fish for the black dragon, he didn't bring the saddle or fin because there was no need for more practice. After a while the Viking boy spotted the redhead girl sitting on a large boulder, when Merida notice him approaching she got down and began walking ahead, and he just follow behind her without a word.

As soon as they arrive the redhead girl entered the tunnel first and the auburn boy went in next. Hiccup saw that Merida was peeking out as if looking for any danger, when she turn her head she placed her finger on her lips telling him to be quiet and made a gesture for him to come closer. He walked quietly towards her and then stares down wondering what got her so interested and sees that it was Toothless who was still at the same spot when they left but ended up falling asleep.

Hiccup rolled his eyes but still smile and call out "Toothless!"

And just like that the Night Fury's eyes flared open and he looks up to see the two humans have returned.

The two Vikings made their way down and the Night Fury approaches them "Hey bud" spoke Hiccup as he caress the dragon's head "See. I told you we come back" and Merida merely smile and waved at the dragon.

Toothless was glad that the human boy and human girl came back, if they haven't he would have gone to look for them. The black dragon also notice that the Viking didn't have the items with him, meaning that they won't be practicing their flying.

"I brought your dinner" Hiccup opened the basket and empty it all out "Dig in"

The Night Fury wasted no time in devouring the fish, Hiccup as always let the dragon be and notice that the red-haired Viking girl wasn't next to him. When he looks around he sees Merida walking towards the small lake and sat down at the edge between the ground and water. He was debating whether or not he should go and sit with her, but knew it's inevitable for them to keep their distance, especially with Toothless.

Hiccup made his way towards her and as soon as he was next to her, he got down and sat with his legs cross. Merida didn't say a word when the Viking boy sat next to her, she stayed quite with her knees close to her chest and her arms crossed. The two of them let the silence comfort them, the only thing that could be heard were the sounds of the birds that were nearby, the waterfall from the spring, and of course the sounds of the Night Fury's mouth as he chomp and munch on the fish, which was gross and disgusting.

Merida picked a small pebble and threw it in the water, she watched as the ripples grew and faded away slowly. Hiccup couldn't help but notice it as he glance at her, she could feel his stare and glance back, the second their eyes made contact the auburn teen quickly turn away, and once again they were in another awkward silence.

They know that this small rift between them can't go on forever, they can't just not talk to each other and expect things to be fine. They cannot continue being like this whenever they come together to the cove or anywhere else for that matter.

'How is this any different from before meeting Toothless?' He thought.

'I don't want this. I don't want this to continue" She thought.

"Hiccup"

"Merida"

They were both were surprise that they called each other out so suddenly at the same time.

"Sorry!"

"S-Sorry!"

"Ah wan't to say-"

"I wanted to tell-"

They became quiet waiting for the other to talk first and say what they wanted to say but neither of them said word.

"Ye go first-"

"You can go first-"

And it happened again.

"No ye go-"

"No you go-"

"I-"

"Ye-"

Merida was getting annoyed by this and quickly use her right hand to cover Viking boy's mouth which caught him by surprise. "Hiccup, Aam sorry" She says her face showing much remorse.

Hiccup looked confusion 'Shouldn't it be me saying that?'

"Ah know that Ah said that Ah was upset with ye but it's not the whole truth… Aam upset with myself. Ah got distracted at dragon trainin' an Ah let myself git pinned down. Ah felt scared and powerless…" Merida explained as she lower her head in shame "An' now everyone and Anma stare at me with judging eyes thinkin' Aam a weak girl like those damsels or princesses in stories that needs someone strong tae rescue them. And Ah hate being seen like that"

The Viking girl released her hand from the boy's mouth and went back to hugging her knees "Ah was only upset with ye because of how Ah was only useful as bait for yer plan. As if that's all Ah was good for" she added sounding a bit bitter but then let out a sigh "Still Ah shouldnae use ye as an excuse for mah mistakes… Aam sorry"

After finally saying what she wanted Merida became silent and focus her blue eyes at nothing but the water. She didn't hear anything from the Viking boy which was fine since he must be disappointed with her.

"I get it… I get why you be upset about that, so you don't have to apologize. After all I know all about being scared and powerless"

Merida turn her gaze at him "Hiccup ye-"

Hiccup raise his a hand and shook his head and gave a sad smile "No need to sugarcoat it, because we both know it's true. I'm the chief's son and yet I'm nothing like my father, who is big, strong and brave like a real Viking should be, but not me, I'm the complete opposite. During dragon raids nobody wants me around because I would get in their way, I can't take on a dragon by myself, much less help you guys with the fire brigade. And when I try using my inventions they always makes things worse for me and everyone"

He grabbed a pebble and threw it at the water "You only made one mistake and everyone will get over it, but that's not the same for me. I'm only using small tricks thanks to Toothless to help me survive the training. I'm not a skilled talented fighter like you, the only thing I'm good at is staying inside, and working at the forge. That's the only thing I'm allowed to do in the village… But anything else, I'm completely useless"

The two Vikings let themselves be welcome by silence as they got lost in their thoughts. They stayed like that for a few more minutes until Merida let go of her knees and place her hands behind her to support herself and spoke "Yoo're wrong Hiccup".

Hiccup made a dry laugh "What that I'm actually a strong Viking on the inside, wordy to fight in battle?"

"Oh no, yoo're definitely not that"

Hiccup quickly turn to look at with a perplex expression "H-Huh?"

"Yoo're not th' strongest, if anythin' yoo're th' weakest of us all. Yoo're not a good fighter, ye cannae handle any weapon that is thrown at ye, even when ye make one for yourself" Merida expalin as she use her right hand to make a motion of all the things about him "Very clumsy on yer feet when ye dornt watch whaur yoo're going, yoo're too reckless when it comes to yer own safety, and th' safety of others, especially when ye try those bampot invention. Honestly it's amazin' that you haven't destroyed th' forge yet"

Merida turn her gaze to the Viking boy who had an expression that says 'unbelievable' for what she just said "Should Ah go on?"

Hiccup narrow his eyes at her "Oh sure! Please keep talking about all my worst qualities" he says sarcastically.

"Weel Ah would, but then we be haur all night" she said bluntly.

'Why do I even bother?' thought Hiccup as he facepalm and lowered his head.

"Anyways, beside ye being all that, yoo're wrong about two things" She added.

"Oh really? And what is that?" He he mumble.

"Yoo're braver than ye think"

When those words were said the Hiccup removed his hand from his face and look at the redhead girl with much curiosity.

"Teel me Hiccup, how many Vikings have survived from seein' a Night Fury, an' actually manage tae capture one?" Merida asked waiting to hear his answer.

The auburn boy didn't know why she would ask him that and didn't need to say anything because there was no answer to that question. Everyone who's ever heard or able to see the unholy offspring of lightning and death had only manage to escape with their lives.

"Aam waitin' " She said.

Hiccup was brought back from his thoughts and answered "No one"

"Are ye sure?"

"Yes. Gobber said so himself no one has ever seen one, and if they have they never lived to tell the tale" He says.

"Then why am Ah lookin' at one"

Hiccup blinked "Huh?'

"Th' only Viking who's ever seen a Night Fury an' is still alive to tell the tale, is ye" Merida stated loud and clear, pointing her finger at him "Not only did ye see one but also manage to capture it, all on yer own. But ye set it free and insteid of walkin' away yoo're willin' to visit the most dangerous dragon of all and actually bond with heem. If that's not brave than Ah dornt know what is"

Hiccup was stupefied after hearing that and realized how true her statement is, anyone would have run, or think twice for going anywhere near a Night Fury, especially having the chance to kill it. But his curiosity of wanting to know more about the dragon was bigger than his fears of getting burn alive or eaten by the scaly creature. And now he's not really scared of the Night Fury, of Toothless, instead he deeply cares for him and wants nothing more than to protect him.

"An' th' second thing yoo're wrong about is ye bein' useless. After all, ye created somethin' so amazin' that nae body could ever do" She says in a matter of fact.

"What do you mean?" Hiccup asked with a puzzle expression.

Merida rolled her eyes wondering how he could be both smart and dense at the same time, and pointed her finger at the Night Fury behind them "Ye made somethin' for a Night Fury, a dragon, so he could fly again. And while daein' it ye are now able to fly with heem. So again how are ye useless?"

Hiccup opened his mouth to tell her why but nothing came out, there was nothing for him to say to argue with her, everything she was saying was true no matter how much he wants to disagree.

"Ye may not be able to hold an axe, but ye are able to make one. Ye may not be the strongest, but ye are the smartest. Ye may feel like yoo're useless coz everyone tells ye and sees ye like that… But Ah dornt. Ah donrt see ye as that, Ah never did. Yoo're really are amazing Hiccup, an' yoo're definitely not useless" claimed Merida as she made a sincere smile "Not tae me, and especially not tae Toothless"

The Viking boy was left completely speechless all his life he was used to hearing the same words like failure or useless told to him from literally everyone in the village, including from his own father. But Hiccup didn't hear those same words from Merida, she didn't see him the same way as everyone else does. He could see her cerulean eyes weren't seeing through him, they were looking right at him, someone worth seeing, her eyes and her kind smile are the proof that all those things she said were her true honest feelings about him.

Suddenly Hiccup felt something wet falling from his face and when he went to touch it with his hand, he realized that it was a tear and before he knew it he started crying.

"H-Hiccup?" Merida was caught off guard by seeing the tears fall from his eyes and began to worry "A-A-Aam sorry! Ah didn't mean to upset ye, Ah was just-"

"No, no, no it's okay. It's okay" Hiccup use his hands to wipe his tears away but unsurprisingly it wasn't working, he couldn't help but let them flow out "I- I guess I was just-I didn't expect to hear all t-those things you said. Since no, no one has ever said anything like that to m-m-me".

As she heard his cries Merida felt a small sting in her heart as she watched him, knowing very well what he what he meant when he said that. All his life everyone has treated him like an outcast despite being the Chief son, they all looked down on him because he didn't look or act like a real Viking. They never even gave Hiccup a chance to prove himself, and worst of all he's gone through so much that he never once heard a single honest praise by anyone. She knows that feeling very well, because she herself was an outsider with no memories of who she is or where she's from, nobody accepts her as Hooligan tribe member any more than they do to Hiccup.

"S-Sorry for looking so pa-p-pathetic" He says in between breath.

Merida was brought back from her thoughts and shook her head "Yoo're not pathetic. Ye are just a wee lamb" she said with a half-smile. Instead of feeling annoyed by being called by that nickname the auburn boy let out a small laugh.

After a few more minutes past Hiccup finally stopped crying and felt like a big weight was finally off his chest after letting himself go like that, and was glad that the teen girl next to him didn't see him as a weakling for doing it.

"Feelin' better?" Merida asked.

Hiccup nodded "Yeah. And… Thanks Merida"

"You're welcome" Merida throws another pebble at the water and asked "Does this mean we're good? No more fighting, no more awkward silence, we made up?"

"Y-Yeah I guess we did" He said with a smile.

Merida was so relived to hear that as she got up from the ground and stretch herself. When she was done she turn to where the Night Fury was "I'm sure Toothless will be glad to know that we officially made up" she said.

Hiccup turn his head to look at Toothless who already finish his meal, and was strangely licking his paws and scratching his head. He glances at the Viking girl and sees how her eyes are filled with wonder as she observes the black dragon. He knew what she was feeling because he felt the same way when he first found the dragon, which lead to him freeing Toothless and befriending him, and doing the impossible. Suddenly an idea came to Hiccup's head that he knew that the redhead girl would like, no she would definitely love it. He quickly got up from the ground and without thinking twice grabs Merida's hand and began walking.

Merida was puzzled by Hiccup's unexpected act "H-Hiccup?"

"Don't worry you'll love this" He said with much excitement.

Merida didn't understand what he meant until she sees that they were heading straight towards the Night Fury. When she realize what exactly auburn boy was planning, she immediately stopped in her tracks and snatch her hand back from him. The auburn boy was confuse to why she let go but then saw the slight fear in her eyes, and who could blame her, anyone would nervous about approaching a dragon, especially a Night Fury. But Hiccup knew that it'll be alright because he won't let anything happened to her as long as he's by her side, and he knew that Toothless wouldn't hurt her, because he trust the dragon, and so does he.

Hiccup extended his left hand out and gave her a reassuring smile "Merida… I won't let him hurt you. Trust me"

Merida was very unsure about the idea but she did trust Hiccup, so she knew that everything will be alright as long he's there. She reach out with her right hand and hesitated for a moment but then grabbed his hand. Hiccup held it tight but gently letting her know that she could count on him. Toothless notice the two humans approaching and they stood close enough to be 5 feet in front of him. The dragon was glad to see them getting along, especially as they were doing the custom of holding hands, but curious to what exactly they were up to. The Night Fury also notice that the human girl had a nervous expression which is strange for her to have and the small boy had a calm composure as he looked at the girl with a gentle eyes.

"You ready?" Hiccup ask.

Merida still felt unsure going through with this but closed her eyes, took a deep breath and let it out. She then opened her eyes and had a determined look "Alright. Aam ready"

Hiccup nodded then place his hand to the back of her hand, the teen girl could feel the warmth from his touch and how he held it with much care. He then lifts their hands up towards Toothless and whispers at Merida "Just relax, look away to show that you trust him. And wait for him to make the first move". He slowly let go of her hand and careful steps back from them.

As soon as Merida no longer felt his warm hand she was ready to drop it and turn away, but she didn't, a strong part of her was telling to stay put, and she did. She gazes at the Night Fury, cerulean blue and Acid green stayed in contact for a moment, until Merida closed her eyes and looks away, her heart was pounding for not knowing what would happened but she lingered there and waited for the dragon. Toothless recognizes the gesture that the Viking girl was doing, it was the same gesture that the Viking boy did before. When he sees that she turn away he was once again surprise by the action, after a second he closes in on the human girl and let his muzzle make contact with her small soft hand.

The moment that she felt the warmth of the dragon's muzzle, Merida's eyes opened wide with shock and slowly turn her head, and right before her eyes the dragon has allowed himself to be touch by her. Her heart was no longer beating from fear, it was beating from unknown elation from actually touching a dragon, and a Night Fury at that. The redhead girl did something bold and gently trace her hand from the dragon's muzzle to head his head, and was amaze to feel the texture of the smooth scaly skin on her skin. When the Night fury opened his eyes the Viking girl froze wondering if he mined, and Toothless surprise her by moving his head slightly as if telling her to continue. Merida's lips form into smile as she proceeded on petting the dragon.

"How does it feel?" spoke Hiccup as he stood next to her with a knowing smile.

"Honestly. Ah, Ah cannae find th' right words to describe it" says Merida feeling so many emotions.

"I felt the same way the first time" Hiccup placed his hand on Toothless neck and then made playful smile "Want to see something unbelievable?"

Merida raised her aye brow but nodded "Sure"

"Stand back"

The Viking girl backed away and watched as the Viking boy began to scratch the dragon on the head and slowly moved his hand to his neck. He kept his hands grazing on the dragon's neck for a little longer, making sure that Toothless was focus on the nice feeling of being scratch. And with that Hiccup quickly moved his left hand under the chin and gave four scratches and a second later the Night Fury went completely limp and fell to the ground.

Merida was wide eye surprise from seeing the dragon suddenly collapse "W-Whit just happened?" She looked at Toothless with worry but saw that instead of pain, he looked extremely happy.

"Apparently if you scratch him under his chin, he goes completely numb" replied Hiccup as he got down on one knee and caress the dragon's neck. "Amazing how a small action is able to bring the fiercest Night Fury on his knees huh?"

"Sounds unbelievable, and yet Aam seein' it with mah own eyes" commented Merida "Ah take it that ye will use this new trick for trainin' tomorrow?"

"I kind of have to. Unless you have an idea that will keep me alive?" said Hiccup looking at her for suggestions.

"You could quit dragon trainin', but even if ye did, that still willnae solve anything" Merida reply as crossed her arms "Ye have become a wee popular thanks to those two victories ye made. So everyone is expectin' to see more from ye"

Hiccup got up and rubbed his neck "I know. Especially Gobber"

"What are ye gonnae to do when we reach th' finals, and only one will ki-" Merida didn't finish that last part because of the Night Fury "When only one of us is pick for th' final battle?"

"Don't worry. We both know that they'll pick Astrid for that" He says with much confidence.

"An' if by a really, really, really wee chance they pick ye?" inquired Merida with a raised eye brow.

Hiccup stayed quiet for a moment and then made a nervous smile "I'll uh, well I'm s-sure I'll think of something"

Merida gave a sigh "That's whit worries me"

The two them spent the rest of their time talking about what they done during the past two days they haven't seen each other and also enjoying the moment on petting the Night Fury. When the night time arrived Hiccup and Merida decided to head back home, they said their goodbyes to the dragon and left the cove. The Night Fury then finds a nice spot in the cove to rest as he blasted fire on the ground and laid there, feeling proud of himself that the two humans were getting along, and obviously it thanks to him.

Despite being dark the two teens walk side by side through the forest already knowing their way back to the village since it's not their first they walked at night.

"So yoo're really gonnae scratch a dragon's chin tomorrow?" questioned Merida as the idea sounded ridiculous just from her saying out loud.

"Yeah, but don't worry I have a plan" reassured Hiccup "And you won't be involved in any way. So no one will see you as my underling or a damsel in distress"

Merida nodded "Thanks"

"No problem. Red" He said.

Without so much as a warning Merida grabbed her bow and swiftly used it to swept the auburn boy's leg which cause him to fall on his back with a thud.

"Ugh!" cried Hiccup already feeling the pain on the back of his head. When he opened his eyes he was met with a very smug redhead bending half way down on him.

"If ye call me red again, ye will become mah new target practice. Got it?" She said with much warning behind her smile.

"Okay. Okay, my mistake!" Hiccup quickly said.

The Viking girl patted his head which made him flinch with fear, then she stood right up and continued walking ahead. Hiccup manage to get up from the ground and ran to catch up with her.

"By the way, you were wrong" stated Hiccup as soon as he stood next to her.

Merida tilt her head in confusion "What do ye mean?"

"Two. Two Vikings were able see a Night Fury and live to tell the tale. And they were both brave enough get close and touch one" He answered and gave a big smiled at her "Those two are me and you"

Merida blink in surprise and then made a small laugh "Ah guess that's true"

As the two continued walking through the night and feeling comfortable being in the other's company with no more awkward silence or tension between them, they arrive just outside of the village.

"Hiccup"

The Viking boy stop in his tracks and he shifted his body towards the red hair girl who stood there holing her bow.

"This bow… Ye made it for me, didn't ye?" She asked but already knew the answer.

"Yeah, why? Is there something wrong with it?" wondered Hiccup his inner blacksmith showing "Because if it's no good, I can make you a new one, if you want?"

Merida shook her head and looks at her bow with much care "Nae, it's perfectly fine. Just that, everyone has tauld me that a bow isn't a suitable Viking weapon. And yet every time mah bow breaks, Ah always find a new one in mah front door. And Ah know it's ye, coz ye know how much Ah love daein' archery"

Hiccup rubbed his arm nervously trying to find the right words "W-Well I know that you, that someone who's talented with a bow and arrow deserves it. It be a waste for you, if you can't show off your skills"

"Even though it's nae a proper weapon for a Viking" she said that part softly but was still heard.

"Even if it's not, I will keep making a bow for you every time. No matter what" Hiccup says sincerely.

After saying that the Viking boy sees the redhead girl place her bow over her shoulder and began moving towards him. The moment the teen girl stood in front of him, she swiftly wrapped her arms around his neck and embraced him.

The second their bodies made contact Hiccup completely froze and his mind went blank, he wanted to say something but was too nervous that he couldn't say anything at all and didn't know what to do in this situation since he was never hug by Merida before, actually he was never hug by a girl for that matter. The auburn boy could feel his face turning bright red and his heart racing fast making him wonder if this was normal being hug by someone.

"Thank ye for the bow" Merida spoke softly as she held him firmly but gently "Ah really appreciate it"

When he heard that the teen boy was once again surprise by her words but strangely after hearing it he no longer felt nervous from their closeness, instead he was feeling a bit warm. Hiccup made a smile as he slowly raise both his arms and wrap them around her and said "Your welcome"

The two of them stayed in each other's embrace in silence and enjoyed the nice moment. After a few more seconds past Merida was the first to break it up as she stood back with a big smile on her face "See ye tomorrow?" She says.

"Uh y-yeah, See tomorrow? I m-mean Yes! Tomorrow!" stammered Hiccup still feeling a bit flushed.

Merida gave a nod then walked around the Viking boy and began making her way back home. Hiccup just stood there watching her go into the village, the moment that he could no longer see her from a distance, he let out an air of relief as if he was holding it in for a very long time. He began taking small deep breaths trying to calm himself down but couldn't stop thinking about the hug he got from the redhead girl, and he didn't understand why his heart kept pounding from just remembering that small moment. And for some strange reason he recalled something else, a particular faint scent that he caught in the air a second ago.

'It was the scent of apples' He thought.

The Viking boy was confuse to why he even thought of that and just shook the silly idea away and started walking to his home.

Unbeknownst to him that a certain someone witness the whole scene between them from a afar.

Please be patient for the next chapter, especially now because I started my first semester of online classes to become an Assistance Preschool teacher

Thank you all so much for staying with this fanfic for so long, and welcome to all of you new readers who just join in.

Please leave a review, so I can know what you think of the story

Please everyone be careful when you go outside and when your online, there's LITERALLY all kinds of dangers no matter where you are

Stay safe and healthy

Love and cherish your family and friends

And may God bless and protect you all

"SEE YOU SOON"