Chapter 22

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DunBroch stood as a witness to the passage of time, its stones echoing the tales of love, courage, and resilience that had unfolded within its walls. Six more years had woven a tapestry of memories, and now the kingdom gathered to witness the next chapter-the coronation of Queen Merida.

The grand hall, adorned with the colors of DunBroch, hummed with anticipation. Y/N, now standing proudly by Merida's side, gazed upon the assembly with a sense of fulfillment. The cheers of the crowd echoed through the stone corridors as Merida, regal in her attire, ascended the steps to the throne.

Fergus, more grizzled with the passage of time, stood among the lords and ladies. His eyes, misty with unspoken emotions, reflected the pride and joy of a father seeing his daughter assume the mantle of leadership. Elinor, still dignified and regal, offered a comforting smile, her hand resting on Fergus's arm.

As Merida reached the throne, the minister, a figure of solemnity, raised the crown. The crowd hushed as the jeweled diadem descended upon Merida's fiery locks. The room erupted in applause, a thunderous acknowledgment of the Highland queen.

Y/N, his heart swelling with pride, clapped along with the assembly. The years had transformed him into the steadfast companion of the queen, a role he embraced with unwavering devotion. The cheers washed over them, the echo of a kingdom united under the banner of its sovereign.

Fergus, amidst the applause, couldn't contain the tears that welled in his eyes. His daughter, the spirited archer who had once defied tradition, now ascended the throne with a grace that bespoke the maturity of a true leader. Elinor, sharing in the silent exchange of emotions, squeezed Fergus's arm in a silent reassurance.

After the applause subsided, Merida turned to the assembly, her eyes reflecting the weight of responsibility and the determination to lead her people. The minister, his voice resonating through the hall, announced, "Lords and ladies, I present to ye-Queen Merida of DunBroch!"

The cheers erupted anew, a chorus of approval that reverberated through the castle walls. Merida, her gaze steady and resolute, addressed her people. "Thank ye, my fellow Highlanders. As yer queen, I vow to uphold the spirit of DunBroch and lead us to a future as vibrant as our moors."

The assembly, stirred by the words, cheered once more. Y/N, standing by Merida's side, felt a swell of pride. The journey that began in the depths of the forest had led them to this moment-a moment where a queen, born of the Highlands, stood poised to guide her kingdom.

As the ceremony continued, Merida and Y/N, now her royal consort, navigated the intricate dance of diplomacy, governance, and the occasional Highland celebration. The challenges they faced were met with the same resilience that had defined their early adventures.

In the quiet moments between duties, Y/N and Merida found solace in the chambers that bore witness to their shared laughter, whispered conversations, and the enduring flame of their love. Fergus, now an elder statesman, offered counsel when sought and reveled in the joy of seeing his daughter thrive as a queen.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the Highland horizon, Merida led Y/N to a secluded alcove within the castle. The air held a whisper of secrets, and Merida's eyes sparkled with a hidden joy.

"Y/N," she began, her voice a tender melody, "there's something I've been wanting to share with ye."

Y/N, intrigued by the gleam in her eyes, smiled. "What is it, love?"

Merida, her hand resting on her abdomen, revealed with a radiant smile, "I'm carrying our child."

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