#ch: (dolores madrigal)

[sincerely-meg]

Okay, that was the third copy of that book Meg had seen someone have this day... she looks for some sort of sign that there's a sale or some such but doesn't find one. Is there an author's event?

This is what Meg gets for always checking other bookstores when she's in NTO. She doesn't really keep track of what's happening in her own town.

And then there's another person with that book and Meg couldn't help but sate her curiosity.

"Hey, hi. Excuse me. Um, that book," Meg says, pointing, "I've seen a few people with it. Sorry to ask, but is there an event or something coming up?"

@haveyoumet-dolores

book bonding | dolores & meg

[stasammenarchive]

not long now.....it’s so close..

[ropebunnykant]

dolores’s verse in we don’t talk about bruno scratches a brain itch

[fanficsandfluff]

A New Miracle - Chapter 7

Fandom: Encanto

Character(s): OC (Original Character) Alexa, Bruno Madrigal, Julieta Madrigal, Pepa Madrigal, Mirabel Madrigal, the rest of the Madrigal family

As the next few days passed by, the younger female Madrigals tried to keep assessing the situation. They also tried formulating an attack plan to get the most information possible, and even to double check their assumptions with other family.

"Okay okay, so one more time. Go," Luisa directed, the girls all gathered in Dolores's room, which was soundproofed.

"I got Bruno," Mirabel said.

"I'll try and talk to my mom," Dolores went next.

"And I'll get our mom? But you're coming with me, right, Luisa?" Isabela asked, brushing hair off her shoulder.

"Yeah, I'll come in as like the second attack. One, two, punch."

"So we're good."

"Anyone willing to take Abuela?" Mirabel asked cautiously. All the girls turned to her and simultaneously shook their heads.

"Yeah, maybe she's like a last resort. I mean, I doubt she caught on to anything anyway, she's soho busy, heh," Mirabel rationalized.

"So we good?" Dolores checked.

With a nod from everyone, they put their hands in and chanted their team name, "Madrigirls!"

~~~~

Dolores was up first, but she was relatively nervous about approaching her mom on the subject. So, she began by eavesdropping, like she always did around the house. But this time she was focused on Pepa and what she talked about and who she talked with.

Isabela stood outside the kitchen with Luisa, where their mom was inside, as usual. Some townspeople had children celebrating birthdays and Julieta always liked gifting them a little something for it, especially in the form of treats. Luisa shoved Isabela inside to go first, making Isabela squeak from the force.

"Hm?" Julieta looked over her shoulder, "Ah, hola, Isa."

"Hi, mamí," Isabela straightened herself out before approaching, "Need any help?"

"So sweet, Isa," Julieta smiled wide at her daughter, "Sure. And you can help me deliver these to the Gómez's when we finish, hm?"

"Of course," Isabela glanced behind her to where Luisa was lying in wait. She motioned with her hands for her to go on.

Isabela tied an apron around her own waist and stood by the bowl of dough to eventually roll out and cut into shapes to then pass to her mother to fry up.

"How do you like Alexa, Isa?" Julieta asked her daughter, and Isabela was genuinely surprised by the question, loose dough slipping through her unmoving fingers. Isa did nothing to try and stop the dough or answer Julieta's question. Was mom psychic this whole time? Did she know their whole plan front and--?

"Isa!" Julieta clicked her tongue and gathered up the dough from her, rolling it in flour, "Ay, what happened?"

"Spaced out for a second, mom, sorry. Well, I think she's perfectly... fine," Isabela answered at last, rubbing her dirty hands on her apron, "She's nice. Very nice," she changed her wording when she saw Luisa give her a look, "Great," she switched it up again and cleared her throat.

"Mmhm," Julieta agreed but with a suspicious brow.

"I haven't spent much time with her, to be perfectly honest," Isabela continued, "But you have. What did..." she drawled, "... you learn about her? Or what you think of her?" she smiled a bit too big to be not suspicious.

Julieta smiled genuinely now and she continued frying the dough, "Well, I think she's lovely. A little lost, I think, literally and inside. But she means well. She's very kind and she appreciates everything we're doing for her."

Isabela was nodding furiously at every word that left Julieta's mouth, but she remembered how she used to keep her cool back when she was the golden child and took a breath to realign her nerves, "She enjoys herself it looks like, yeah! And she spends a lot of time with you, and Tía Pepa, and... Tío Bruno..."

Julieta didn't look at Isabela during her speaking as she concentrated on cooking, but she smiled again, "Oh yes. Especially Bruno."

Isabela almost jumped out in excitement that she was finally getting somewhere. Apparently so was Luisa, but more literally, as a potted plant just outside the kitchen doorway fell to the floor with a crack, Luisa looking guilty as anything.

Julieta and Isabela both looked toward the noise, Isabela starting to glare and Julieta looking concerned, "Oh, Luisa--"

"I got it! My bad, sorry," Luisa tried picking up the shattered pieces but it was no use. Casita seemed to sense the tension and it morphed the cupboard with the trash can in it to tilt on its side and then lifted its tiles until the whole mess was thrown out and cleaned up.

"Thanks, casita," Luisa mumbled, embarrassed.

If Isabela's gift was fire instead of flowers, her whole head would be in flames with the looks she was shooting her younger sister's way. They were so close...

~~~~

"Psst," Dolores threw a hand out of her innocuous hiding perch and pulled her brother towards her while he was walking down the hall.

"Hey!" he shapeshifted into Luisa, which he usually used when he felt frightened.

"Calm down, idiot," Dolores whispered, "I need your help."

"Why? What's in it for me?"

"I won't tell mamá and pa what you mumble in your sleep," Dolores completely fibbed since her room was naturally soundproof to help her sleep at night.

Camilo's face morphed into a scared eyebrow raise and then into annoyance, "Ugh... fine. What do I need to do?"

"Go ask mom about Bruno."

"You want me to talk about Bruno?"

"Clearly," Dolores narrowed her usually wide eyes at him, "Get her to keep talking about him and anything she knows or senses. Now, go."

"Ohhhh...." Camilo's eyes sparkled, "Wait a minute, is this about Bruno and Alex--"

"Sh!" Dolores slapped her mouth to Camilo's, "Yes! Yes, okay? But don't bring it up like that! You have to be smarter about it."

"Sneakier," Camilo grinned now, mischief his clear intent.

"Just go," Dolores gave him a shove, "And no tricks, idiot."

"Watch and learn, sis," Camilo cleared his throat before strolling along to Mirabel's room where Pepa had went inside minutes earlier.

"Hi, mom," Camilo opened the door with a kiss-up's grin.

"Oi, niño, you startled me," Pepa's sudden lightning pop was an indicator.

"Whatcha doing in here?"

"I'm looking for something of your brother's. He says there was a small toy soldier in here that he loved but he hasn't seen it since getting his own room and--"

"Great, great, okay, so," Camilo cleared his throat, "What do you know about whatever's going on with Bruno and the new lady?"

Dolores slapped her face and groaned, "Estúpido..."

Pepa blinked a few times, "Well... what do you mean?" she rose from her previously kneeling position on the floor and approached her son, who now cowered a bit.

"It's just that-- well, you talk to your brother, and I was just curious about his well-being and if you maybe wanted to share your feelings or--"

Pepa's thundering cloud had engulfed almost the entire room by now, "You're just trying to mess with him again, aren't you?"

"N-No?"

"Ay! Why can't you just behave like your brother!? Leave Bruno alone, Camilo," she pointed a finger in his face as Camilo felt a droplet of rain land on his nose.

Camilo nodded, "O-Okay, mamí. I will."

Pepa left with a huff and abandoned the idea of finding the toy for Antonio now that she was worked up. Camilo slowly walked out of the room and stood in the doorway. He could see Dolores across the open courtyard standing there with her arms folded across her chest and a scowl on her face. He smiled innocently, "Heh... went well!"

~~~~

When Mirabel couldn't locate her uncle in his vast room, she found him in the walls after skirting through the tight spaces to find him.

He seemed to be either playing an episode of one of his rat shows or merely rehearsing one, Mirabel couldn't tell for sure. But she cleared her throat to make her presence known. Bruno yelped and flipped his hood up, immediately turning into Hernando, "Who's there?" he demanded in his slightly more threatening Hernando voice.

"Um, hi, tío. It's me... Mirabel."

Bruno pulled his hood down and he chuckled nervously, "Aha! Oh, Mirabel. Be careful sneaking up on me like that, Hernando coulda done some real damage."

"Mmm..." Mirabel smiled in understanding, "Yeah, I'm sure. So, what are you doing?"

"Nothing, I just... I still come here to kinda clear my head, you know?"

Mirabel nodded, swaying on her toes as she listened.

"And it's a lot more comfortable than all that sand. That stuff gets everywhere--"

"Alright! Got it! Okay," Mirabel stepped closer into his living space and looked around. Some of the things in here had been cleared out after reuniting with the family. But other things remained, like his rat stage. She noticed a new addition, as well: papers strewn everywhere and in piles all around the place. Bruno must have been writing... something.

"Can I... help you with something?" Bruno asked his niece, unsure why she came to find him.

"Well," Mirabel could usually come up with any excuse or reason or alternate truth with a turn of her tongue but right now in this moment she just wasn't feeling it, "Yeah, um... How have you been lately?"

Bruno was trying to figure out where Mirabel was getting, but in the meantime, he answered, "Good. Why?"

"Just asking. So you've been good? That's good, that's so good," she nodded her head and started kicking her heel against the wood floorboards.

After a beat, Bruno started speaking again, "Actually, it's good you're here. Can I borrow you for something?"

"Um, sure," Mirabel agreed.

"Great, so... come over here," he patted his remaining lounge chair for Mirabel to sit in. She did take a seat and he stood in front of her by the rat stage. She had an odd suspicion as to where this was going.

"I wanted to kinda test things on you, get your opinion. I've been working on new material for the show for Lexi to see and I need like a buffer audience before I show her so I know where it needs to flow. Okay?" Bruno talked very quickly and excitedly and nervously, all wrapped into one. He was wringing his hands together out of the nerves.

Mirabel cocked her head to one side and felt a smile spreading across her lips, "Who's Lexi?" even her tone dripped with tease.

Bruno paled and his hand-wringing got more intense, "Wh-Who? Lexi? Who's Lexi? I don't know no Lexi-- oh do you mean ALEXA? Because yeah, I know her, but I don't know any Lexi, per say..."

Mirabel leaned forward in the chair, fighting the urge to stand up and walk straight up to her uncle, knowing how nervous he gets with conflict in the first place. To keep him at ease, she stayed put.

"Tío Bruno," Mirabel began in a gentle voice, "Do you... like Alexa?" she straight up asked but couldn't help when her voice was laced with good-natured teasing.

"No, are you kidding?" he went on the defense immediately, but then, "Well wait, no I do like her-- but not like that! Like yeah, she's... cool. You know?"

Mirabel could swear he was sweating and she could see it from where she sat.

"Uh-huh. Cool," Mirabel stood up now and adjusted her skirt, "Thanks for the talk, Bruno. And hey," she got closer to him to try and look into his rapidly shifting eyes, "I don't need to see your new telenovela script. I'm sure Alexa will love it just the way it is."

Bruno looked at Mirabel and felt reassured by her compliment. He showed a soft smile and nodded once. As Mirabel was leaving, Bruno blurted out, "Mirabel! Wait!"

"Yeah?" she spun aroud.

"Don't-- Don't tell anyone? Please?"

Mirabel heard the nerves wavering her uncle's voice but she nodded firmly, "Won't tell anyone, tío."

Bruno smiled appreciatively and bid her go. Mirabel left the walls feeling accomplished in her mission.

~~~~

"You like it here?"

Alexa was startled when she heard Abuela Alma's voice coming from behind her. She'd been standing on a balcony overlooking the town in the sinking sunset of another sunny day's past. While she had tried to get involved in the lifestyle of the magical family in the previous days, she really wasn't able to accomplish much. So today she opted for alone time in Mirabel's room and wandering the house again. She ended up out here for the last hour, feeling a cooling breeze on her skin and watching the ant-sized townspeople bustle about at the end of their day.

"Oh," Alexa stood up when Abuela came over, "Yes. Very much."

"I'm glad," Alma always had this soft, almost smirking smile on her face a lot when she looked pleased, "Our candle has burned brighter since you arrived."

"The candle?" Alexa asked, turning around to look directly across the home at the candle on its little perch, "I've never asked. Is that candle a symbol of your home?"

"That candle keeps the magic alive in our home and in our family. It's the miracle we received many years ago," Alma explained, "It's very important to us."

"I see," Alexa nodded, learning by now to accept any new and completely unbelievable information that came her way. A miracle candle now. Sure.

"I watch you with my familia, with my children and grandchildren. They all accept you," Alma continued, "I used to not think highly of outsiders. With Julieta, I first learned that it was necessary for outsiders to come and help our family grow. She found Agustín, then Pepa had Félix, and for a time I even treated Mirabel like an outsider..." she started frowning, "It's not something I am proud of. But I did what I thought was right for the family. And now, with your arrival, Alexa, I'm learning even more to just let things be."

Alexa listened to Abuela's captivating way of speaking, standing in silence. Alma looked at Alexa directly at last and said, "You, however, are the most outside outsider we've ever had come here."

Alexa felt like this was a dig at her and she made a face to look good-natured about it, "Yehes. Yes, I did travel."

"You should stay," Alma said, "For a little longer. I don't know if you had plans of leaving us, but..."

"No, I haven't. Honest. As long as I'm not imposing on any of you, I think I'd very much like to stay."

"That's good," she gave one of those smiles again.

"And Señora, I was--"

"Please, call me Abuela," she smiled the most genuine Alexa had yet witnessed. And it made Alexa smile.

"Abuela, then... I was wondering if it was possible that I help out more. I want to be a team player as much as possible but it already seems like this team is very... equipped. I don't have a special gift, but I can help. Please. I don't want to feel like a freeloader, I'd rather earn my place in this house with all of you."

Alma seemed to think it over before nodding, "We'll find something for you to help with, Alexa."

"Thank you," Alexa smiled, brushing some windblown locks from her face. Abuela bowed her head and went back inside the casita.

~~~~

The Magrigirls met back in Dolores's room after their assigned missions, like they planned to do.

"So..." Mirabel started, "How did everyone do--"

"It was a disaster!" Luisa practically started sobbing. Isabela rolled her eyes but agreed, "I was very close to getting mom to open up, but then Luisa..." she sighed, unable to get mad at her sister for long, "It's okay," she rubbed Luisa's arm, "We tried but failed."

"I got Camilo involved and he ruined it," Dolores spoke in her usual titter, not looking too pleased with herself.

"So I'm assuming you didn't do any better?" Isabela directed her question at Mirabel.

"On the contrary..." Mirabel was smiling proudly now. She waited an extra second to see all the girls hanging onto her every breath for her to continue.

"Bruno totally has a crush on Alexa."

"What!?" Dolores screamed.

"How'd you know??" Luisa asked.

"Did he just straight up tell you? Like confessed? Or are you making this up, because I swear if you're exaggerating this, Mirabel..." a minuscule cactus popped from Isabela's hand and landed on the floor.

"Honest! He said it in every way but with his words! He's literally writing telenovela episodes for her."

"Oh wow..." Isabela blinked extra fast.

"Yeah, he's in it deep," Luisa concurred.

"So... what do we do with all this information?" Dolores inquired.

They all seemed to pause at that, not thinking further on what to do once they'd acquired their facts.

"I guess... let them be?" Luisa posed.

"No! We have to make sure she likes him back!" Mirabel said, "It could break his heart if she doesn't like him back and we all know what happened the first time he felt ostracized!"

"Well, we can't force love," Isabela said, "You're the one who knows I never wanted anything to do with Mariano."

"Which he forgives you for, by the way," Dolores added.

Mirabel seemed to consider this, "Hm... I guess you're right."

"I say," Luisa spoke up again, "We just leave them alone. And... if anything happens, just let it play out?"

"I guess so," Mirabel agreed, "Oh! But don't tell anyone! Bruno asked me not to say anything to anyone but, like, I didn't include you guys in that "anyone" part but please don't mention this to anyone else!"

"Sure, Mirabel," Dolores responded.

"Boy, I never pictured Tío Bruno to have someone like that," Isabela remarked.

"The black sheep would've stayed a black sheep," said Dolores.

There was a silence shared by all the girls before Mirabel clapped her hands together, "Welp! Good work, team! Until next time," she thrust her hand in the middle of their circle. The other girls put them in as well and gave a semi-enthused "Madrigirls" cheer, but they all did seem happy with their discovery. Only time would tell.

[dr-drckken]

@haveyoumet-dolores

"Really?" he asked, no doubt sounding more surprised and delighted than was probably warranted. But he was rarely rewarded for participating in these sorts of things, so this was a great incentive. Drakken was a little bit like his dog in that regard, easily won over by food. And praise, but that hadn't been promised.

"Great! Then let's get this place set up," Drakken said, flipping through the instructions. "Where are these tables? I can start putting them up if you've got the labels for who gets which one."

World's Worst Assistant || Dolorakken

[ofhumanvoice-a]

THIS IS SO GO GOOD THO, GUYS.

[fabricated-misslieness]

pairing: platonic los primos madrigal x gn reader

req: no | wc: 1.1k

summary: The youngest Madrigals each held a heavy secret, which is unknowingly mutually shared. Now that he no longer lives within the walls, you’re free to share your secret about tío Bruno.

a/n: reader understands spanish. what does the fandom call Pepa and Julieta’s children, los primos or grandchildren? he/they pronouns for Camilo

“Hey, Camilo, remember what you said about tío Bruno? “7 foot frame, rats along his back,”” Mirabel recalls, trying to hold back her laughter, “What was that all about? He’s barely even taller than me! And he’s just about your height!”

“Well-” The shapeshifter is about to begin, but Isabela cuts him off.

“Ah, don’t tell me you were scared of him, primito.” She snickers. Everyone in town was scared of him, actually; though Camilo was often one to be a little arrogant. If he was scared of him, he wouldn’t outright admit it. “When he calls your name, it all fades to black.”?”

Camilo’s face scrunches up in annoyance –at least that’s what you think– and says, “I-I’m not scared of him!” Through their stutter, you realize it was more than annoyance. He was trying to hide his former fear for his tío too, except he failed. They clear their throat, “I have my reasons. What I said was extremely reasonable!”

Isabela quirks both her eyebrow and her head to the side, “Really?”

“Yes, absolutely.” He takes a raggedy breath and recounts the story, “It was one gloomy night a long time ago,” Ever the dramatic, that Camilo, “I was hungry. So I snuck into the kitchen, whose butterfly tiles illuminated the counters with an eerie glow-”

“Get to the point already!” Antonio demands.

The older brother rolls their eyes, “Right there, in the middle of the kitchen, was tío Bruno. I was short and I was six, okay? Tío Bruno towered over little six year old me! And then he called out my name in surprise, “Camilo!” because he had left the house- er, begun to live in the walls the year before. I wasn’t supposed to see him, y’see? Anyway, I was so scared that I…”

“You?”

He sighs, “...fainted.”

The group begins to laugh, and Camilo is left in the midst of it all with his lips smothered in a thin line. “I get it, I get it.” They continue to laugh. “It’s funny, I know.” Doesn’t seem like it’ll stop soon. “¡OKAY YA CALLENSE!” (OKAY SHUT UP ALREADY!)

“Wait, wait,” You wipe a tear from your eye that had fallen throughout your maniacal laughter, “so that’s why your house has always been a little scary? Haunted, I mean.”

Being the outsider here, you weren’t present during their little ‘So, we gonna talk about Bruno?’ family reunion. “I thought something was off every time I came over for dinner.”

“Oh,” Mirabel winces, “about that… There’s a little crack or something on the family tree painting by the dinner table, and… Bruno stares through it during dinner. It’s nothing creepy or stalkerish, I swear! He’s just always been rather lonely during his time away. He’s even got a little plate he painted for himself on the table beside the crack.”

“Oh…” This is quite the transition from all out laughter to sadness, you note. “Eso es…” (That's...)

“Muy triste.” Luisa finishes for you. “Hmm, wait, Camilo’s story got me thinking.” She begins, “I’ve also seen tío Bruno after he left. I just always assumed it was my little secret!” (Very sad.)

Realization flashes through the relatives’ minds. They all shared this one secret, they just didn’t know it. Choruses of agreeances chime throughout the room: “Same!”, “Me too!”, “I thought I was the only one!”

“I feel left out.” Antonio notes, “I knew about this too, the rats told me. I just haven’t been holding it for as long as you have!”

“You don’t want to keep such a secret for ten years.” Dolores remarks. She’s known the longest, of course, because she could hear through the walls, which meant she could hear within them too. Of all the secrets within the town, this was the one she was the most faithful in keeping. Dolores was quite the chismosa, actually; She recounted many town secrets to you often. It was surprising how she could keep this secret to herself. (quite the gossiper, actually)

Isabella nods along, “About that crack in the family portrait… I noticed it when I was younger, too. I was very interested in it, and I didn’t have full control over my powers I used too, so I spent quite some time trying to make vines small enough to fit.”

“And how much time was it?”

“Three… no, was it four? Five? It couldn’t have been a week.” She mutters to herself, then later remembers it didn’t quite matter, “Whatever. Practice takes time, so it definitely wasn’t within the day I found it.” Mirabel was delighted in the idea that Isabela wasn’t perfect from the start, but she didn’t show it.

“When I finally stuck a tiny vine through, I figured out I could make it grow bigger once it was inside. Long story short, I moved the vine from side to side and knocked over many things. I could hear them dropping, and I could also hear tío Bruno’s yelps. They were funny, but I was absolutely terrified back then. Who was this man in the walls? Then I heard him shout, “Salt!” and knew it was him.”

“Oh, that’s what that was.” Dolores giggles to herself, “I was very curious about it. Tía Julieta was very confused when I came into the kitchen asking if any pots had fallen.”

“Hmm,” Luisa rubs the back of her neck, “I feel like my story’s boring now. One time I was lifting weights, and I misjudged how light the weights would feel to carry, so I accidentally flung one past my shoulder.” She winces at the thought of it, “Huge hole in the wall, almost as big as me. Actually,” She laughs, “it wasn’t so bland. I found tío Bruno by that wall. It seemed he’d just about managed to duck before he got hit by a weight. His face,” She’s trying really hard not to laugh now, “I wish you could’ve seen it!”

“Can you imitate it?” Luisa imitates his face, and the relatives begin to laugh.

“So is the hole still there?”

She shakes her head, “No, sadly. Casita locked the door to that part of my room for a while, and then when it finally opened the hole had been patched up.”

“Bummer…”

“So you guys have been keeping your secrets for years now, and I just found out because of some stupid rats and a painting?” Mirabel’s face is painted with disbelief, and then quickly in apology when Antonio shakes his head at her. “Like, seriously, I just found out a couple days ago.”

“It was a hard secret to keep, Mirabel.” Camilo says, “Mamá and tía always get so sad on their birthday…”

“Mhm,” Dolores humms, “Los escucho después en sus cuartos, tu sabes, llorando…” Speaking of hearing people, she suddenly tilts her head as she hears something interesting. “You know what I just heard? Apparently papá y tío Agustín knew.” (I hear them afterwards in their rooms, you know, crying...)

Gasps of shock ring throughout the room. Dolores interrupts it all with, “They just called each other ‘bros’.”

[tokoyamisstuff]

Haimish Ch. 2 - Bruno Madrigal x Reader

Chapter 2: Ceremonial Occasion

Summary: Some might call your wedding a 'minor desaster', but you considered yourself lucky to share a bond with the youngest Madrigal-triplet. Warnings: Toxic Townsfolk and Family Members, Angst as always, Self-loathing, Mentions of Blood Words: ~3500

Taglist: @hannahnikohl @queenariesofnarnia @ganjababie @diannaey @abandonedmemorys

A/N: Idk this got a little out of hand and is probably way too corny, but well it is what it is.

Masterlist

"Brunito, dear, you have to wake up!"

The poor man was so startled by the voice of his sister that he fell down from the mattress, looking at you with those lost puppy eyes that both amused and endeared you.

"Good morning" both you and Julieta spoke in unison, both rushing to his side to lend him a hand.

You had already been wide awake when she had come to pick you up, and you convinced her to let your fiancé sleep just a bit more, using the time to properly get to know each other.

But now, there was barely any time left.

"Leave Y/N to me!" Julieta winked as she pat your back, leading you down the stairs. "We'll meet at the chapel in one hour. Don't be late!"

One last look at the almost-stranger you'd wed soon, and he disappeared in his cave again, seemingly distraught. Noise drang to your ear as he eagerly rummaged in his room, making you feel a little worried.

"Shouldn't I help-" You reached out for Bruno, but his sister led your glare back down - and the height made you a little dizzy. Maybe they should add some handrails on those stairs... "That's very kind of you, but he'll be fine. I know my brother, he's odd but he can manage."

Downstairs everyone was already participating in preparing for the celebrations, but all of their eyes were stuck on you as soon as you stepped into the room.

Every family member greeted you very friendly, lighting your doubts at least a little - with exception of Alma, who warily eyed your every move, as if to evaluate whether you were truly good enough to be part of this family.

Both of Bruno's sisters had been married already, and they reassured you that Alma was like this with everyone. Not even the family members themselves were an exception when it came to her strict temper and sheer endless endeavour.

And while you were at the topic, Julieta proudly presented you her first child - the perfect little Isabella. Pepa's baby Dolores was born only a few months later, and she was just as adorable.

Right now they were only toddlers, but the matriarch already explained her high expectations in the children - even though their powers will only be revealed in a few years.

Will this be the destiny that awaits your own children as well? It seemed almost a little oppressing...

While being cheerful and happy on the outside - basically a dream family - there was this kind of subtle pressure surrounding the each of them - laying upon their souls like a thin haze.

Well, what do you know about healthy family dynamics, right? Not like you could judge, thinking of your own upbringing.

At least everyone was being nice to you. And it was not your place to speak out of term anyway, especially not on the very first day. Wouldn't want to make Alma hate you already by judging her way of leading this extraordinary bunch of people.

Peppa and Julieta would tend to do your hair and makeup in record time, while Alma insisted you to wear a traditional wedding dress. Not the original, as she told you it had been destroyed together with her old village, but it was a perfect replica of the dress she wore back in her time.

Hearing this and remembering the tales of her past, you almost felt sympathetic with the matriarch. And you wouldn't want to disappoint honoring her home and ancestors.

Time rushed by at an incredible speed while spending time with your new sisters-in-law, singing and joking around until the moment had come.

What you didn't know however was that Bruno was watching you from the shadows, still unsure what kind of person his promised one would be like - and you certainly wouldn't disappoint.

The families held the ceremony in a small circlet of guests - not that anyone of the town would want to witness this either way. There was a rumor going around that whoever associated with Bruno Madrigal in any way would be cursed with bad luck.

On your way, even random strangers would approach you on the street, expressing their condolence or shooting you suspecting looks - so either pitying or loathing you for your relationship.

Ugh, they weren't the nicest people to begin with, but you'd never noticed before how stuck-up and assuming those people are.

You could only imagine how hard it must've been for Bruno to return to the village that had forsaken him, just for his family's sake...

...if someone asked you, the ceremony could as well be held in private instead of an official, way too flashy way. But hey, it's the Madrigal's you were talking about.

As you walked down the aisle, you wouldn't bid your family another glance. They didn't deserve it...

...yet when you listened to their mutters about you getting married to a 'disgrace', you were quickly to cut them off with a look.

And still, you couldn't help but feel grateful - for their selfish decision turned your life in a whole new direction.

Bruno's jaw dropped as he saw you slowly paced onwards, soon to join him at the altar. You tried to remain serious, but seeing his grimace made you snort, there was nothing you could do about it.

This whole time of you approaching through the aisle, he would hold his breath and cross his fingers for good luck. Kinda suits him to be the superstitious type.

Yet when you ultimately stood in front of him, your face dropped.

"You're bleeding!" Tumbling the last distance to face your fiancé without second thought, your lip began to tremble as you saw the bump on his forehead.

There was a small wound on top, blood having run to his cheek where it had dried just shortly before your arrival.

How come no one besides of you had noticed?!

...or did they really not care?

"Yeah, umm...someone outside the chapel threw a stone at my direction." Bruno shyly fumbled with his fingers, and his almost apologetic tone was heartwrenching. "No big deal, really!"

It happened all the time when Bruno dared to socialize, even today when he was giving it his utmost to avoid anyone and go straight for the church - but people would never miss an opportunity to let out their frustration on him.

At this time, Bruno had basically become the scapegoat for everything bad that ever happened in Encanto - thinking he wouldn't only predict, but also actively summon it. Even if that wasn't really the case.

"That's unbelievable!" you yelped and ripped a piece of the dress apart, much to Alma's displeasure. She'd gasp in shock - rather at the insult of damaging her family property instead of sympathy with her own son.

People were asking themselves what's wrong with you, and the more they acted this way the more ostracized and alienated you felt from this town. As if it was metaphorically just you against them, throwing yourself to shield Bruno from any more harm.

And you couldn't give a damn about the guests or the ceremony or anything else...

...all that counted was Bruno's pain, and your wish to ease it if just a little.

"How cruel..." You'd use the piece of white fabric and softly wiped away the red tints on his forehead, your hand cupping his cheek for just a bit longer than necessary. "I'm so, so sorry this happened to you, dear..."

Ignoring anyone objecting your care and urging to continue the wedding, you'd signalize Bruno to focus on you. "Who did this?"

Sadly, the man was so flabbergasted by your behavior that for a while, he'd simply stare back at you, unable to make sense to why you'd be so nice with him of all people. It was just so different than any interaction he knew...

...and even though it didn't feel wrong, it was simultaneously scared him. He scanned your face for any hint to make him understand you - but there was nothing except for genuine care.

But ultimatively, he put on a brave facade again, trying his best to remain cheerful and not disappoint anyone. "Doesn't matter, really! Let's continue!"

You sulked more than you should, but compromised when you saw Bruno's sincere smile as he took your hands into his - and to be honest, you were melting into his touch.

Could it be you actually had a little crush on this man already? Impossible! But in the end, would it be so wrong?

While watching Bruno perform his oath, you couldn't help but drift off into thinking: He was a sweet, honest and sensitive man that only wanted what's best for you. Plus, with him you felt like you could be yourself without constantly getting judged.

It surely was only a question of time until you'd fall head over heels for him.

"Y/N L/N, do you take this man to be your husband, to live together in holy matrimony, to love him, to honor him, to comfort him, and to keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?"

Bruno would blink heavily, insecurity plastered on his face as he awaited your answer - only to be rewarded with a bright and certain smile of yours. "I do!" you spoke with your whole heart, squeezing your now-husband's hands ever so slightly.

"Magnificent. I hereby pronounce you husband and wife - you may now kiss the bride."

Both you and Bruno watched each other quite amazed and maybe a tiny bit overchallenged. But at that moment, it felt like the crowd disappeared and no one else would matter.

"It's alright" you whispered only for him to hear, leading his hands to cup your cheekbone. "I'm with you."

His palms were cold and trembling as he brought your face closer to his, until you were mere inches apart. Your mouth brushed his tentatively before Bruno dared to close the gap, his lips lingering on yours for a while as it felt like time itself had stopped.

Only when your lips parted again you were able to notice the cheering audience, sucking in a surprised gasp as you looked at the completely baffled man.

Nevertheless, the almost poetically lovestruck moment was quickly destroyed by Bruno's self-consciousness once again. Something as wonderful as this can't be happening, there has to be a catch, or so he thought.

"I-I-I'm sorry, I dunno how to do something like that, I probably messed up, I am-"

"Shh." You hushed the man's anxious babbling with one swift movement, placing your index finger on his lips. "That was amazing. You are amazing!"

With every small praise, every silly smile or subtle touch you managed to get Bruno just a little out of his shell - as if you were made for this purpose only...

...but when you stepped outside the church, all of the previous stroke of luck seemed forgotten.

The unthinkable unfolded right in front of your eyes: A hurricane, at this time of the year? And you were living in between mountains at that, that's basically impossible!

"Just a little teasing among siblings" Pepa called between the roaring thunder, a mischievous grin playing on her face. You knew she could unintentionally affect the weather with her mood, but right now it didn't seem like she was upset about it. "Or you might call it payback for ruining my wedding!"

"Huh?" You tried to connect the dots, but honestly couldn't - even though the Madrigals are famous and popular, most of their family drama was kept in secrecy.

Already being dripping wet when the sky cleared up again, Pepa waved you goodbye before she went ahead. All the other guests had disappeared inside the celebration room, seeking shelter from the heavy rain and advising you to do the same.

When you looked over to your now-husband however, your heart dropped to your stomach. He was on the verge of tears, guiltridden and with sadness leaking from every pore.

"I'm very sorry..." he started sobbing, plummeting to sit on the chapel's stairs as he buried his face into his hands. Immediately you'd do the same, reassuringly putting a hand onto his back. "You don't always have to apologize for things that are out of your control, you know?"

"But I am at fault!" he sniveled, and his broken voice shot arrows through your heart. "I always ruin everything, whether I want to or not!"

"What did your sister mean, then?"

"She thinks I gave her a vision to mess with her wedding day..." You nodded understandingly as he confided, encouraging him to continue opening up. "But it was just a huge misunderstanding."

For a whole while, no one would come after you two - ironic, considering that you are the main couple - but like this, Bruno had all the time in the world pouring his heart out.

"You poor thing..." No wonder he felt the need to overexplain and apologize so much - it was the consequence of never being heared, and always taking the blame. "It must be terrible if people always assume the worst of you..."

"No, it is me that should apologize for dragging you into this! First my injury, and now...that should've been an unforgeteable day for you!"

"Well, I'll certainly never forget this!" you chuckled, rythmically rubbing some small circles on the small of his back - and finally, his breathing would even out.

"You need some dry clothes! Quick!" he blurted out, realizing that you were shivering due to the old. He pulled onto your sleeve to help you onto your feet again, but you simply laughed it off. "I'm not made out of sugar, Bruno."

"...but you are just as sweet..." he thought as he followed your step, watching in awe as the raindrops shimmered on your skin as the sun peeked from between the clouds.

As you took his hands once again, his gaze was still locked on your lips - the sweet feeling of your lips on his still prickling on his nerves.

Bruno had felt it - saw it through his gift, the exact moments when your marriage was sealed - this won't be the last time your lips would meet.

The first time he predicted something pleasant, to remember within his heart. And he wanted more of it.

Luckily, your family got the hint and stayed away from the afterparty. You'll most likely never hear of them again - except for the superficial smalltalk you'd exchange shall you ever meet in the town. You could as well just refrain from this exhausting contact, but well...

So this was the moment you officially cut ties with them. Should you feel sad or relieved? You did not know, especially right now, at this moment that was supposed to be your 'big day'.

And in the end, it seemed you've just exchanged one toxic family with another...

That thought only strenghtened a thousandfold when you listened to Alma's rant. Bruno this, Bruno that...except for accusations, she had no other words for her son, especially no kind ones. The only positive things she spoke that evening was connected to either your future children, or the well-being of the family in general.

Bruno on the other hand embarassing himself, at least that's what she thought. He apparently was not well enough dressed for the occasion, and Alma was also mad that his hair was unkempt as always - admittedly, you prefered it that way.

Looking at him cowering on his seat with watering eyes, trying to appear as small as possible as he quietly took everything his mother would throw at him, you balled your fists so hard that your fingernails dug into the flesh of your palm. As she even started to blame his injury for having delayed the ceremony, you had a hard time holding back without snapping and saying unforgiveable things.

This whole time, you'd gently put a hand on Bruno's knee to keep it from anxiously bobbing up and down all the time, so he wouldn't get scolded for this as well. Throughout the whole celebration, your touch on him would never falter, signalizing him that he was not alone.

No one would ever muster up the courage and dare to defend him - well, they probably did in the past, but were met with so much punishment that their attempts faltered over the years.

And the influence of everyone else bullying Bruno probably had their influence on the siblings as well, even if only subconsciously, especially on Pepa.

Julieta on the other hand just wanted to gain some peace without actually accepting conflict beforehand. But being passive and comprimising all the time is not how you'd achieve any change at all.

"How often have I told you to not feed those things?!" She finally snapped when Bruno snuck a piece of bread under the table, where a few of his furred friends had gathered. "They are filthy and disgusting!"

"...I think they are pretty cute." Everyone now stared at you in disbelief - including Bruno - when you just dropped that disrespect and continued eating like nothing happened. "They're also very smart animals, did you know?"

After a while of strained silence, the air so thick you could as well cut through it with your bare hand, his mother decided to let it slip for it was a special day. Little did she know that by being lawfully wed, you wouldn't be fake-friendly to please her for long...it was just not in your nature, and very straining on long-term.

The matriarch wouldn't get rid of you that easily now that you were a part of this family, and even though you didn't want to spread aversity, she'd need to accept that you wouldn't just take her insulting your husband from now on.

"I feel like I'm becoming a little ill" you lied to get out of this crushing situation, gesturing around as if you were freezing. Much to your surprise, it was Pepa whose facade dropped now, looking ashamed for her powers. "That wasn't nice of me, I'm sorry. If only I could control my emotions better, then-"

Your palm on her hand made her snap out of it, looking at you with a puzzled expression. "No worries, I love rain! It can be so relaxing. Every weather has it's perks, don't you think so? Right, Bruno?"

"I-uh..." The man was wiggling his legs back and forth, shyly facing the ground before he declared "I love everything my sister does."

Alma's glare disrupted that moment of acceptance and reconciliation, effectively shutting everyone up. Why was she so against her children to be imperfect but fine, while they were obviously unhappy as things were now?

This marriage will be a hard piece of work - no, not the marriage, but the family connected to it!

"Darling, I-" Everyone rose their eyebrows at you already throwing around nicknames after knowing the man for one day only. Wow, had you already made an impression tonight...

Still, you'd tug on the collar of his ruana, looking at him with pleading eyes. "It was a long day. Let's go to the tower, please."

Bruno's glare would indecisively dart between his family and you, flustered and overwhelmed by the recent events - until the clowd over Pepa's head would disappear, much to everyone's surprise.

Not even Alma's constant scolding could banish the clouds in her mind that easily - to be perfectly honest, most of the time it would only make things worse.

"You should carry her" she winked, and Julieta and her husband's jaw dropped, not knowing Pepa to being a very comical person. Félix joined in with his wife, happy beyond belief that his wife had made at least a little peace with herself.

"All those stairs? I doubt it!" His brother-in-law pat Bruno's back - way too hard, but still lovingly - before giving both of you a bear hug. "But maybe just over the doorstep?"

Your look sent mixed messages, something in between 'you don't need to do anything you don't want to, okay?' but also the incredible wish to experience that movie-like scene yourself...

...and before you could object, Bruno had already scooped you off the floor out of a whim, hurrying out of the room as fast as possible, quite embarassed by the spectators.

"B-Bruno!" you exclaimed, just to curl even closer into his arms, nose nuzzling against his neck. "It's okay, I can walk..."

Your husband mutely shook his head, and you were a little surprised at the resolute look in his face. He'd carefully carry you bridal style towards his room, firmly gripping you as he gave it his best to not implode out of those emotions he couldn't put in right order.

Only on top of the tower, after you passed the doorstep, he would gently put you down - just for your arms to wrap around him again immediately.

Bruno was taken aback for a mere second, countless thoughts rushing through his mind at once - just to answer the hug, feeling as if your warmth washed all his sorrows away.

"Welcome home, Y/N."

[toaverse]

Okay but now I'm really interested in your idea of an AU where Bruno and Dolores are the protags! (I believe in their supremacy) if you have more to add could you please share it? ^^

Alright!

Dolores's ceremony actually was kinda traumatizing for her. After having received her door, everyone loudly cheered, actually leading to a panic attack, covering her hurting ears.

Thanks to her tío Bruno, she learned how to deal with her gift. though she always had a small desire and wish to have a different one...

Dolores actually overheard most, if not all, incidents with Bruno's prophecies and the townspeople, how they treated her tío poorly after each future vision (even if they asked him to). It slowly made her afraid of being treated the same way by them, especially since she already had a reputation for being nosy in their business.

The last time she saw her tío was when she heard and caught him trying to leave without him knowing.

Dolores instantly realized why he left...

It made her feel like she was walking on eggshells around her family, afraid that if she made one wrong move or said one wrong sentence, they would exile her too...

Dolores would feel like that for the next decade...

No, scratch that, her tío never left, only living inside the walls of Casita like some rat...

the superhearing girl would secretly leave food, or reassuring notes for her tío in that decade, trying to help him out however she could

After she saw Mira not receiving her gift, Dolores would instantly offer her younger prima to share her room, fearing that Mira would grow miserable and out of place like Dolores felt. The 5 year old girl immediately accepted.

That was how the two primas grew close, actually.

"The Family Madrigal" would be sung by Mirabel, with Dolores there just vibing. Until the kids ask what Mira's gift is...

Mirabel: ...and that's who we are in the family Madrigal.

Mirabel: "Adios!" *feels a kid grab her arm* "Oh..."

Kid: "But what's your gift?" :D

Mirabe: 'Ha! Well-"

Dolores, coming to her prima's aid: "Well, Mira is so special that she doesn't need a gift."

"Waiting On a Miracle" would either be a solo for Dolores where she expressed how unhappy she felt with her gift as well as feeling like walking on eggshells all the time, or that but as a duet with her and Bruno :D

"We Don't Talk About Bruno" would be the same, but sung to Mira and our superhearing protag! She would still have her rap verse! But a tiny bit changed, in this AU singing it to her familia.

Hey, Grew to live in fear of Bruno stuttering or stumbling

I can always hear him sort of muttering and mumbling

I associate him with the sound of falling sand

Ch, ch, ch

It's a heavy lift with a gift so humbling

Always left abuela and all of you fumbling

Grappling with prophesies you wouldn't understand

Do you understand?

No one really listened to her in that scene tho (except Mira), since Camilo would interfere with his horror show.

Casita cracking stilled happened on Antonio's ceremony and all that jazz.

Honestly, I can't see Dolores ending up with Mariano in this AU. Maybe in the future, but not in the main storyline.

Luisa and Isabela's roles would be quite minor, since the story is mainly focused on Dolores and Bruno. Besides, it's already focused on struggling with being gifted.

Dolores and Bruno would spend most of the movie trying to save the magic while bonding in the process.

During the adventure, Bruno expressed that he wanted to just blow that candle out so badly. He had clearly suffered so much during those 10 years...

When one particular incident happened on that adventure, Dolores actually wanted that candle out, lost her composure, and eventually broke down in front of her tío...

Like they both wished, the candle went out, with both uncle and niece still in the house...

They did manage to get out in time, but not without a few injuries...

After Casita was rebuild, the town would refer to Bruno and Dolores as; "The seer and the hearer who know everything". :)

[whitetiger1249]

come and fly away with me

AN: This is for for @AuroraRose2081 on AO3 aka @c-rose2081 Flightless & Friends Week.

Day 4: Nothing But Angst

It's a crossover between my TimeTravelAU! and c-rose2081's flightlesssAU! It's currently going to be a one-shot but I may continue it at a later date.

ch.1 don’t you be afraid (everything will change)

Mirabel did not expect to be tackled. But she really really really should have. With her luck, it was inevitable that she would be embroiled in magical shenanigans. If she could travel back farther in time to talk to her 5 year old self, she would say that having magic or dealing with it was soooo overrated.

As she stepped through the door into the light of day, she was greeted with a familiar yet unfamiliar sight. It looked like Casita and smelled like Casita but it was like looking at one of Camilo’s magical mirrors in their room. A familiar image yet distorted by the reflection. There was a large tower that wasn’t Bruno’s tower and instead had a balcony and landing area. This Casita reminded Mirabel of the large aviary that she had saw with Cass at one of the markets as it had wide open spaces. The smell of warm wood, feathers and was that her mamá’s empanadas . . .? filled the air. It’s magical signature was familiar to Mirabel but like everything else hummed slightly different from her home world. Her quick look around Casita as she looked around took a second before her eyes landed on different version of her familia and they had wings??? Eyes widened on both sides as they stared in shock at one another in the courtyard. Across the room was another Tía Pepa who had seemed to be reading to Antonio with Tío Félix nearby. Isabela, Luisa and Dolores were in the middle of a card game while her mamá and papí were having a quiet conversation on a bench with a plate of empanadas nearby. Even Abuela was in the shadow of the doorway with a bittersweet grin on her face as she watched her familia. Where was her mini me and Cami--

Before she could finish that thought a body slammed into her and attempted to grab her legs and tackle her. In auto pilot she slammed her forearm into the figures shoulder with her left arm and with her right arm stopped thin arms from looping around her legs. With a quick pivot of her body she stepped behind their body and had her arms around the persons head ready to snap their neck as her body pounded with adrenaline.

Her eyes finally took in the small form below her and “CAMILO!” bursted out of her as she took in her primo’s curly brown hair and yellow ruana. Beige and brown wings flapped as the body in her arms squirmed in fear but stopped momentarily in shock as they said, “Mirabel???” Not wanting Camilo to hurt themself trying to escape her, she released them as they stumbled away with wide eyes as they took in an older and taller Mirabel,

At the corner of her eye, a smallish figure with a candle holder hurtling toward her despite the desperate cries of “MIRABELL!” “MIRABEL!!!” “DON’T”. Casita gives a conflicted rumble but before they could intervene, Mirabel quickly dodged the swing of her mini me and used her mini me’s momentum to throw her towards the direction of Camilo who caught mini Mirabel while the rest of the Madrigals got into a defensive position.

During the commotion, Isabela, Luisa and Dolores had ran towards the older version of Mirabel and protectively blocked Camilo and Mirabel out of sight as their wings expanded in a protective snap. This Isabela didn’t look like Señorita Perfecta as her gorgeous white embroidered long sleeve and a multilayered purple skirt with red flowers on it and a straw hat. This Isabela had a protective and ferocious expression on her face as she stuck out her arms and vines started to break through Casita’s tiles to wrap around her ankles. With a shhhhht, Mirabel unsheathed her machete and with a quick swing of both arms sliced through Isabela’s vines. More vines started to erupt and Mirabel felt her strength wane as her heart pounded, she asked, “Casita, a little help here.” Casita obliged and reprimanded Isabela by lifting the tiles under her feet and broke her concentration. Quickly slashing the growing vines from tying her up, she made a move to flee through the entrance of Casita as she sheathed her machete but Luisa had rushed towards her. MIERDA! Her sister could be scary.

Spotting a pile of rope nearby, Mirabel fled in that direction with Luisa on her heels.

“Stop! Mirabel!” Luisa called behind her.

Mirabel grabbed the piece of rope and darted back towards Luisa who skid to a stop in surprise. That was all the time Mirabel needed as she wrapped the rope around Luisa fast enough to bind Luisa’s wings to her body. Luisa’s startled face met hers and she sent her sister from another world an apologetic glance not bothering to tie the rope.

Before she could flee, a gust of wind slammed her to the wall and Casita gave an apologetic mumble. Ahhh shit, that hurt. Her head throbbed at the body slam against the wall as darkness swam at the edges of her vision. As her vision was going dark she heard an angry, “PEPA! That was too much.”

“Lo siento, Juli but I didn’t want her harming anyone else.”

Isa’s voice surprised her, “She didn’t. She was just defending herself. Besides some bruises, she never made a move to use her weapons.”

The last thing she felt was a semi familiar warm hand check the back of her hair and a sigh that she recognized as her mamá’s “What am I going to do with you” sigh.

***

Julieta didn’t know what to think of this mysterious stranger that wore her daughter’s face.

It was just a regular Sunday afternoon, and for once, everyone was in the same area relaxing as they rested before the week started all over again. Pepa and Félix had decided to read to Antonio one of his favorite animal books as Parce, Antonio’s jaguar, napped nearby. Isabela, Luisa and Dolores were all playing toruro off to the side and no doubt exchanging chisme. She and Agustín were discussing one of Agustín’s favorite sci fi novels and the possibility of worlds that existed like their own (many world’s theory) or if there existed worlds that had different beginning and thus different types of people like a version of Julieta that had Pepa’s gift (multiverse theory). Her mamá was somewhere around Casita. Off to the side, Mirabel and Camilo were playing fútbol with Casita against Casita’s wall.

The appearance of an ornate green door with a candle in the middle marked with all the Madrigal familia’s symbols was odd. The green door was carved with Julieta’s mortar and pestle, Antonio’s animals, Pepa’s sun and weather motifs, Luisa’s weights, Bruno’s hourglass, Isabela’s flowers, Dolores’s sound waves and Mirabel’s Mariposa. It was enough to draw the familia’s attention and shock. Casita made no sound as if this was a regular everyday occurrence.

What was even shocking was the door opening and a person stepped out. It was . . . Mirabel???!?!? An older version of Mirabel but it didn’t look like their Mirabel. This one’s face was sharper where their Mirabel’s face was round. Her eyes were a shade darker and went from a wood to more of a cedar color. What was even more alarming was the militaristic demeanor and appearance that this Mirabel had. This Mirabel’s lovely curls were plaited into a braid that went down mid back. A dirtied white tank top, brown belt and dark green cargo pants slipped into light brown combat boots. At her hip was what looked like a sheathed machete and some knives. Her heart went into her throat at the partial view of a large scar slightly visible above the tank top that spoke of a fatal wound. How was this Mirabel alive?

This Mirabel’s sharp eyes stared at their Casita in awe and wonderment before she stiffened in surprise at the audience waiting before her. Her body unconsciously moved in a defensive position. Before Julieta could say a word, a blur of movement showed Camilo tackling this Mirabel and Julieta watched in horror as older Mirabel’s face turned cold and automatically blocked Camilo’s tackle before putting them into a head lock. From what she was told by some of the veterans from the militar, there were a few options of what could do if someone had put some one in a head lock. You could stop a person’s air flow until they were unconscious or you could shift your hands and snap someone’s neck. A hint of recognition flooded the older Mirabel’s face as she shouted “Camilo” and Camilo froze in confusion, wings out. Thankfully, this Mirabel face softened and she pushed Camilo towards Félix who steadied Camilo and took in the scene warily.

Julieta’s heart started pounded and a “Mirabel!” ripped out of her throat as she saw their Mirabel bravely try to defend Camilo who had been pushed towards their familia. She saw the older Mirabel’s eyes widened in reluctance but they managed to almost gently redirect Mirabel towards Camilo. Their Mirabel was caught and unharmed.

Julieta took a step forward but an arm held her back as Agustín, angled her head towards the girls as they stood protectively in front of Camilo and Mirabel.

The next few moments went quickly as Isa tried to tie the older Mirabel but Mirabel cut down the growing vines. Gasps rippled across the familia as Casita listened to the older Mirabel. Luisa gave her hand at trying to contain the older Mirabel with a small plea and that flicker of reluctance grew but soon the familia was shocked to see a tied up Luisa who struggled to unbound herself.

Before Julieta could use Mirabel’s full name in a desperate hope that it would stop this Mirabel from hurting anyone or running away, Pepa wings had unfurled and sent a gust of wind towards the sprinting Mirabel. Her eyes had widened in fear, panic and shock before she hit the wall with a smack. Ouch.

Seeing a Mirabel, any Mirabel, get flung against a wall caused her heart to pound and an angry, ““PEPA!” came out as she reprimanded her hermana.

“That was too much.”

Her hermana winced and a dark grey cloud hovered over her head while a curious and frightened Antonio peered from his mamá’s side. His eyes full of concern for the other Mirabel. Félix had a hand on his esposa’s shoulder and gave a comforting pat. His eyes keeping a careful eye on the downed Mirabel with an unreadable expression.

Pepa ducked her head in shame and explained, “Lo siento, Juli but I didn’t want her harming anyone else.”

An agitated Isabela crouched closer to the fallen Mirabel, her wings shuffling in agitation as she glared at her tía and said something that made them all stop cold, “She didn’t.”

At her familia’s eyes on her, she explained while gently checking the other Mirabel’s glasses and sighing in relief that they weren’t broken. She also gently checked the Mirabel over and gave a sigh of relief at the sign of a chest moving up and down. “She was just defending herself. Besides some bruises, she never made a move to use her weapons.”

Agustín was right beside Isabela and gave a “she’s right. She seemed more like she was trying to flee then fight. She could have hurt Camilo, Mirabel, Isabela or Luisa but chose the most efficient way to avoid them”.

Dolores helped Luisa untangle herself from the rope as Luisa reflexively moved her wings. Luisa’s eyes were full of concern for both Mirabels as she glanced at their Mirabel and then the older one. Their Mirabel’s face was full of curiosity and wariness. She seemed almost overwhelmed at another copy of herself.

Julieta quickly made her way and gave a sigh at the young woman who looked so much like her own daughter but so different at the same time and gave a sigh. Checking the back of the girl’s head, she was relieved to find no blood but a decent size bump on the back of her head. With Agustín and Isabela’s help, they propped her against the wall.

Isabela gently placed the glasses back on the other Mirabel’s face and adjusted them so they weren’t crooked. Their Mirabel glanced curiously at her look alike as Juileta gently checked over the older Mirabel. The large ropy scar in the middle of her chest had caused her heart to stop and her blood to run cold. Her hand hovered above the area but she could not bring herself to actually touch the scar as her mind unhelpfully supplied that it was the exit wound. This Mirabel should not be alive with what looked like a blade had sliced through her back piercing two vital organs. The heart and the lungs. She shoved that thought in the back of her head as she watched the rise and fall of her chest. Made sure to check this Mirabel’s pulse which was racing fast. Using her powers, she was distressed to find the numerous healed injuries that this Mirabel had suffered through. The most distressing of these injuries was this Mirabel’s fatal injury of an impalement, a stab wound on her left torso and a few gun shot wound on her right thigh and left shoulder. One of the more recent healed injuries was a broken shoulder blade, shoulder and collar bone.

At that point, her mamá had joined the crowd around the mysterious Mirabel to the surprise of the rest of the familia. She stared at the older Mirabel with an expressionless look but there was a slight tremble to her hands. Her eyes darting to the sheathed machete and the scarred and mirrored image of one of her nietas.

“How did this happen? What happened?” her mamá demanded.

Isa was the first to answer in a clear tone, “That door appeared over there and she stepped out. Before we could say anything, Camilo tackled her and we fought. Tía Pepa knocked her out.”

At that last sentence, Casita gave an unhappy rumble that startled the familia.

“Casita, why are you unhappy?” Abuela asked.

Casita brought over a blanket, a plate of empanadas and one of her smelling salts. With a pointed gesture, Casita lifted up the items and flapped open a tile to point at the unconscious Mirabel.

Abuela hesitated but asked, “Is she a danger to our familia? Should we tie her up?”

At that Casita made an angry grumble and shook a nearby shutter in a vehement, “NO!”

Abuela seemed taken aback at Casita’s reaction. It was clear that this Mirabel was important to Casita. Julieta took a closer look at this Mirabel’s wrists, she noticed faint scars around this Mirabel’s wrists and her hands flew to her mouth as she noticed the rope burn scars.

Slight concern appeared on Abuela’s face as she questioningly asked, “Julieta?”

“I think Casita says that this Mirabel wouldn’t react well to be tied up. She has some rope burn scars around her wrists,” Julieta explained.

“I see. Let’s wake her up and see how she got here. Luisa and Isabela, be on standby in case we need to restrain her. Félix, could you please disarm her. Dolores, please verify this Mirabel’s vital signs for any lies. Everyone besides, Julieta, myself and the others, please give some room in case anything happens.” Abuela ordered.

The familia all gave a nod as tension filled the air. Félix, quickly unbuckled her machete with its sheathe and the knives at her belt quickly. Her hijas, got ready in case this Mirabel tried anything and Dolores stood by Abuela’s side. At her mamá’s signal, she placed a smelling salt under the older Mirabel’s nose and a few seconds later, Mirabel’s eyes snapped open and she gave an involuntary inhale. Time to get some answers. [1/2] ch. 2 something’s gonna bring the change

It seemed like moments later, that Mirabel awoken. Something smelled like cat piss and Mirabel would know as she almost stepped in Parce’s pee in Antonio’s room the night of his ceremony. The smell brought her back to consciousness and she woke unable to get enough air in her lungs, a hand came into her view of vision and panic thrummed through her. Her head ached and it didn’t help that she tried to scramble back and brushed her pounding head against the wall with a wince.

“Mira. It’s ok. We’re not going to hurt you,” a different version of her mamá said gently, her eyes full of concern and her wings outspread (which was still a bizarre addition to this Mirabel). Despite her reassuring words, Mirabel’s eyes darted toward the remaining Madrigals and saw her Luisa flanking Abuela protectively but eyes full of worry. What was odd was this Isa was right by mamá with a clenched hand and her hand twitched as if she wanted to reach over and comfort her.

Her hands scrambled near her side but met open air and her eyes flickered to this world’s Tío Félix who had unholstered her weapons and had placed them behind him with Camilo, Tía Pepa, Antonio, and her tiny doppleganger watching her with cautious eyes. A flicker of green and the glint of metal, soothed the panic and fear in her chest and her body relaxed at the fact that Cass had her back. She forced her breathing to calm as she took in a breath and held it before releasing it in a puff. She did that a few times as her breathing turned back to normal.

“Here.” This version of her mamá offered out an empanada and she grasped the warm empanada and strangely familiar callused hands. Casita gave an approving rumble and she let out an amused huff.

“Casita, you’re as bad as mamá. Besides, a little warning next time would have been nice.” Mirabel told Casita.

To the Madrigal familia’s surprise, Casita tossed the blanket over to the older Mirabel so it landed right all over her upright body. Comedically, covering her whole face and front. Pulling the blanket off of her self she gave Casita a deadpan look and patted the floor as she said, “Ok, ok. I won’t give you so much attitude.” Casita gave Mirabel a small pat with one of the wall tiles that she exasperatedly huffed at. Seriously, most Casitas were almost as bad as her mamá with embarrassing and smothering her with their love.

Taking a bite of the empanada, warm pork, beef and potatoes coated her tongue and she gave a sigh of relief as her mamá’s magic washed over her body, soothing the bumps and bruises that she had received. After she finished the empanada, she stood up slowly as to not spook the other Madrigals. They tensed slightly but all eyes were glued on to her as she rose and straightened to her full height.

This abuela’s eyes were flickering between her and Casita. Her face in it’s usual authoritative mask but bewildered eyes with reddish magenta wings, white highlights and a black middle. She was a few inches taller than her abuela but Mirabel had grown since she was fifteen and was still a few inches taller than this abuela.

Not beating around the bush, Abuela asked calmly, “Who are you? And why are you here?”

Giving a wry grin as she put both arms out with palms facing upwards and a slight dip of her head, she explained, “I am Mirabel Maria Valderama Madrigal from another world and I am just passing through.”

Murmurs broke out at that as eyes widened and disbelieving stares were thrown her way. Abuela eyes flickered over to Dolores who was at her right who gave a nod. Ah. They must have been using Dolores's hearing to make sure she was telling the truth.

Disbelief shone in Abuela’s eyes and her mouth twisted into a frown. “Another world? Are you saying that there are other worlds like this one with the exact same people?”

“Yes. More or less. In my world, my familia doesn’t have wings, we just have the same gifts as you guys.” she explained, her eyes cataloguing the similarities and differences of these Madrigals and this world.

“And you? Do you have a gift?” Abuela eyed her skeptically.

“Nope,” she nonchalantly popped the “p”. “Don’t need one. Besides I learned and my novia has confirmed that magical powers are overrated.”

At that shocked inhales were heard around the courtyard and her abuela’s eyes seemed to narrow even further. Older Mirabel’s eyes flickered to her younger mirror counter part who looked at her with curiosity, fear and wonder.

Before this Abuela, could say something unintentionally hurtful, Mirabel eyes turned knowing and she could see the similar landmarks and life events that had similarly shaped this Abuela. The trauma, fear and grief that she hid underneath her mask of perfection and control.

“Abuela, Casita can vouch for me,” Mirabel stated as Casita gave a clatter of agreement, “I have no intention of hurting or harming this familia or the town. This is just a pit stop before I can get back to my current home world. If I can guess, this world is right before my home one.”

At Mirabel’s knowing eyes and the unsettling feeling that this Mirabel knew her and that her mask wasn’t fooling this Mirabel, caused Alma to step back in slight discomfort. Luisa step forward in an effort to shield this Abuela but it was unnerving looking at an older stranger with her hermana’s face. What was even more unnerving was the knowing look in her eyes as if she knew all about this familia’s trials and tribulations. Dolores glanced at this Mirabel who had such an intense and knowing gaze directed at their abuela. This Mirabel’s heart sounded off. Weaker. Her lungs straining to get enough air when she woke up that Dolores almost said something to her Tía but this Mirabel soon got it under control. But besides her initial awakening, her heartbeat had sounded calm and steady. Self assured.

Abuela shifted slightly but held on to her stern facade. “Very well. You may stay here for as long as you need before you go home. You are a guest here and I expect you to act like one. I assume, your abuela and your mamá have taught you how to behave.”

Instead of the scowl and angry expression that abuela expected, this Mirabel just smiled understandingly, “Sí, abuela. Just one thing. . .?”

Abuela had started to turn away when hearing the sí but stopped and raised a brow.

“Are you ok if my novia stays as well?” Mirabel asked.

“ ¿ Tú novia?” Abuela asked with wide eyes that turned into shock and fear as Mirabel pointed to a figure on the balcony.

On the balcony was a fierce looking woman with ebony ringlets streaked with gray that were chin length. She wore a green tunic, black cape, black pants and boots. A sword was strapped to her back. She had a bow and arrow trained on abuela and the Madrigals all tensed in preparation for a fight. Before Luisa could shield abuela, Older Mirabel told Dolores to cover her ears who nodded in understanding.

Giving a piercing whistle, Mirabel got everyone’s attention.

“It’s ok. She’s just making sure I was ok. After the previous Madrigals tried to kill us, she was just being careful.” Mirabel explained to her shocked audience. Giving Cass the “ok” signal, Cass gave a firm nod and walked down the stairs keeping a close eye on the other Madrigals. No one made a move to stop her before she walked right beside her Mirabel. With a soft look, she gave Mirabel a once over before giving her a quick chaste kiss.

“Tried to kill you guys?” Isabela choked out. A slight blush dusting her cheeks as she glanced between the two of them that shifted to horror at their remark.

“Yep. They weren’t a fan of ‘outsiders’ interfering with familia or town business,” Cass said dryly.

“I mean it is our business, when that whole familia is going to implode and innocents are going to get hurt or die. But we took care of it,” Mirabel said determinedly. The two women exchanged looks and Mirabel eyes roved over Cass’s figure who didn’t look too worse for wear. It seemed that Cass had arrived in this world shortly after she did.

The two exchanged glances, you ok? Cass asked. Mirabel gave a bitter smile , no . . . but I’ll survive. We’ll make things right with that other world. We’ll make sure that Mirabel has a chance of a better life. Cass gave her a reassuring squeeze as the tightness in her chest loosened.

The Madrigals just stared at them in shock as they tried to wrap their brains around another versions of themselves being bad enough to kill others. Abuela cleared her throat, and explained, “She may stay as well but separate rooms. It is not appropriate for the two of you to stay in the same room unless you guys are married.”

At the wince and look on Mirabel’s face, Abuela raised an eyebrow in challenge. “Thank you for your kindness, Abuela but we actually have our hammocks and gear. We’ll be camping out by the river behind Casita.”

Casita gave a disappointed grumble as the Madrigals noticed the new door that had a candle and a crescent moon above it. “Ah, sorry to disappoint Casita but we’ll be back for meals and such. We just need some space to get used to this new world but we won’t forget you.”

to be continued (in the distant or near future; i dunno)

[i-may-be]

Rating the parts of "We Don't Talk About Bruno" based on gender

characters: the Madrigal family.

:)

pépé: 0/10. im just not feeling it, not sure what it is.

felix: 7/10. I think it's the way he goes "what a joyous day".

dolores: 15/10. LOOK IT'S A FEW SPECIFIC THINGS LIKE THE "hey" AT THE START AND "ch ch ch" ALSO THE "couldn't understand" also the general soft voice too!! ugh the the way she said "betrothed" got me.

camilo: 12/10 all of it!! but specifically the "feasts". i dont know what it is might also be the animation hmm who knows. ALSO the "isabela, your boyfriend's" but not the here part.

isabela: 4/10. not much but it the lyrics scratch my brain a certain way.

mirabel: 10/10. very short but the way any of her lines are done?? gorgeous

BONUS! when theyre all singing together: 18/10. loving the way they all overlap eachother, very genderly done.

[awesome-opossum-after-hours]

here’s the full fanfic, but if you’d prefer to read it in “chapters”/ shorter parts, I have those up on my page! 

this is inspired by encanto_valley's post on Instagram and quite a bit by the short Frozen Fever! I'd like to think that Mirabel goes very over the top for birthdays, so the first year that the triplets were all together again would be a big day for everyone. She'd probably push her own health aside just for the sake of giving them the best day possible.

(also for this fanfic I'm gonna be going with the popular headcanon that Julieta's magic can't cure things like a cold, since it really just means that your immune system is working fine and she only heals what's broken)

------

10 years. Ten birthdays that the Madrigal triplets had celebrated their birthdays apart. Two accompanied by the family, singing "Feliz Cumpleaños" at the dinner table, and one listening longingly from a crack in the wall. Most tend to brush over turning 51- people tend to focus most on the big "five-o"- but today was to be a huge celebration. And Mirabel, always a big fan of birthdays, was going to make sure of it.

The whole day prior was dedicated to setting up the surprises that would be hidden around Casita, who would help keep them a secret until the big day. The triplets had taken the day off to visit the town outside the Encanto as an early birthday gift from their husbands (with Bruno joining in on the fun, of course), so Mirabel headed up the planning with the help of the other Madrigal grandkids. The first birthday back together, and everything was going to be perfect.

------

6:30 am- Mirabel hadn't set her alarm clock the night before to avoid waking up the rest of the family, and instead had asked Casita to wake her up itself. Like clockwork, it sent the floorboards rippling through her room as if to say, "alright Mira, wake up!" Which she did, but something felt... off. For starters, she was unusually tired. Understandable for anyone else at six thirty in the morning, but Mirabel's always been the family early bird. Not to mention she had gotten adequate sleep the night before to prepare for the big day. The next thing she noticed was a dull pain behind her eyes and down her nose, like someone had shoved cotton balls up there as she slept... but all this had to be ignored.

"Suck it up," she muttered to herself as she got up to get dressed. She took a deep breath. "Today is about Mamá, Tía Pepa, and Tío Bruno, and it's gonna be perfect."

But of course, if this were the case, we wouldn't have a story to tell.

------

After some last minute prepping, it was finally time to wake up the triplets. The plan was for Isa to go to Julieta's room, Dolores to go to Pepa's, and Mirabel to go to Bruno's (newly renovated, might I add, and a lot more comfortable). About halfway down the hall, Mirabel felt a tickle starting in her nose.

"ah..CH-" She managed to muffle her sneeze before it got out, because if anyone found out she was sick then all her plans would go to ruin.

Hopefully Dolores didn't hear-

"Bless you" Dolores whispered over Mirabel's shoulder as she drifted past, causing her to jump. Of course she did, she thought.

"Thanks..." Mirabel laughed nervously.

"Are you feeling alright? I was up early this morning, I could hear you grumbling."

"Yup!" Mirabel played it off. "Right as rain, haha..." She gave her cousin a thumbs-up, almost as if to say "I know you know the answer but please, don't say anything!"

Dolores scanned her over for a second, making Mirabel feel like she was in an interrogation room. A bead of nervous- certainly not feverish, as she told herself- sweat ran down her forehead.

"Well," Dolores concluded, "I'll keep an ear out for you, prima." She let out her characteristic squeak as she turned away to head towards Pepa's room. Mirabel let out a small sigh of relief, and was once again reminded of the slight achey-ness that was an undertone to each step she took.

As Mirabel walked down to Bruno's room (though she tried to disguise it as a walk, it was more of a drag), she caught glimpses of Luisa, Camilo, and even little Antonio (with the help of Abuela) do their parts in putting together the birthday surprise. Casita had recolored some tiles in its hallways to create 3 pathways for scavenger hunts around the house- blue for Julieta, yellow for Pepa, and green for Bruno. Each led out the front doors of Casita and into the center of town, where a huge party was waiting for the three of them. Mirabel couldn't wait to see the looks on their faces, how happy they'd all be to finally get to celebrate together again in such a big way. She had just about reached Bruno's door, when...

"Ah-CHOO!"- One, and another, and another. Though at least now Mirabel felt like her and Dolores had a solidarity. Dolores knew how important today was and how much effort she put into planning it. She trusted that Mira would sit out if she really needed (wishful thinking on her part). Mirabel brushed off the sneezing, and now slight soreness in her throat, as she turned the doorknob.

Bruno was sound asleep in his large red armchair- the same one from before Casita's collapse- a habit he had picked up from his days inside the wall.

"You really still won't sleep in a bed...?" Mirabel whispered, half to herself. Something about this made her feel unsettled, like he still held these habits and could go back into isolation at any time. This reminded Mirabel of why she planned this party in the first place. The family was together, and will never be broken apart again. When she went to go wake up her tío, she felt another tickle in her nose. Before she could stifle it, Mirabel let out an unexpectedly loud sneeze.

"AH-CHOO!" This promptly did the job of waking up Bruno, as the poor man fell right out of his chair.

"Sorry!" Mirabel sniffled a bit. She helped him off the floor. "I was trying to wake you a little gentler..."

"That's okay, kid... so um... what's going on?"

"It's your birthday!" said Mirabel excitedly, with a hunt of concern. Had he really forgotten his own birthday, after all these years? "¡Feliz cumpleaños, Tío!"

"Oh! Right..." he chuckled, somewhat nervously, "guess it's just been a while. ¡Gracias, sobrina!" Luckily Bruno was never a big hugger, so he gave his niece a fist bump instead.

"De na-" her voice got caught on a rasp, and Mirabel went into a small coughing fit.

"Yikes," Bruno looked at her concerned and put his hand on her back, "you alright?"

Mirabel turned slightly away, hoping to not get her uncle sick. What a birthday present that'd be! "I'm okay!" she managed to sputter out between coughs. Finally she was able to catch her breath again. "Just uh... choked on my own spit, you know how that goes...! Anywayyyyys, we've got a special day planned for you, Mamá, and Tía! Let's go, to your sorpresa de cumpleaños!" She practically pushed Bruno out his door and onto Casita's green tile path that had started outside his room. Mirabel rubbed her throat while still hidden behind her uncle. Ouch.

Surely enough, Julieta and Pepa had just left their rooms at around the same time as Bruno. This didn't surprise Mirabel at all. Julieta was a total morning person, so she'd be easy to wake up. Pepa, on the other hand, was not. Dolores had gone into Pepa's room a few minutes earlier than the rest, as she was a heavy sleeper who tended to get angry when she was woken up by other people. Though she couldn't stay mad at her children for long, which was why her cariña Dolores was assigned to the task. Julieta, Pepa, and Bruno were all given the run-down of the scavenger hunt, and each were set on their way. Each triplet received a gift along the way from each of the Madrigal grandchildren, but in a scattered order that made sure the gift giver could be there to see their reaction.

But before everyone took off, Abuela Alma presented each of her children with something special. A pocket watch, identical to hers, except in the place of Pedro was an old photo she had of the three of them, all dressed up right before their gift ceremony. Before they became busy, before the rift that drove one away, when it was just them and nothing between. Each was engraved with an emblem representing their powers, but now looking slightly different. Julieta's showed a rolling pin and a whisk crossing each other, with a heart where they intersect. Underneath it was three smaller hearts, one for each of her daughters. Pepa's emblem was no longer just a sun- after all, the sky didn't always have to be clear. Instead it included a sun with three clouds slightly overlapping. Little raindrops fell from each, and a rainbow crossed in the background of it all. And Bruno- no longer was his hourglass so sharp and geometric. Harsh truths were no longer blamed on him, and the emblem on his watch was curved, welcoming, and yet beautifully intricate. The three of them were all speechless with tears pooling in their eyes. They gave each other looks of pure love, and all at once hugged their mother tight.

This was the only gift Mirabel hadn't been aware of beforehand. The act had filled Mirabel with such warmth, so much so that it felt like her whole body temperature had risen a bit. Maybe it had... wasn't she just shivering a minute ago? Alma had started to say something to the family, but Mirabel felt herself starting to lean more and more against the wall. She tried to fight it, but her eyes grew heavier and heavier. Half conscious, she felt her head fall on Camilo's shoulder, which startled her back awake.

"Ay, Mira!" her cousin whisper-shouted. "You're warm... you feeling ok?" Luckily the rest of the family didn't seem to notice (other than Dolores, who was growing increasingly more suspicious on her cousin's condition).

"Wha- um yeah! Yeah! Just, ya know, had a lot to do this morning so I did a lot of running around! I'm fine, totally fine!" She gave him a forced grin. Her voice too became more forced as her rasp grew considerably more noticeable. Camilo gave her a strange, worried look, and turned back to Abuela who had just finished her little speech to the triplets. The birthday surprise was about to begin, and everything was going to be perfect!

------

Mirabel knew she had to distract herself if she was gonna make it through the day. To get her brain out of its current heavy fog, she bounced between paths quicker than she was originally anticipating. This served as great adrenaline to keep her awake, but as soon as she stopped, Mirabel felt like collapsing. A few times, she even had to hide in a vacant corner of the house to try and stifle a coughing fit. But never the less, Mirab pushed herself forward. This is for her familia, it must go smoothly.

Mirabel had first followed her mom to her first stop, which was gifts from Luisa. Luisa had taken well to craftsman work, making items like new pots and pans for her mother, along with cookie cutters in various fun shapes that she had always wanted to try out. They weren't perfect, but Julieta was always a sucker for handmade gifts, especially those from her babies. Mirabel let out a horse chuckle, which turned into a wheeze, then into a few rough coughs, and led to Julieta rushing to her side.

"Corazón, what's the matter? Are you sick?" Her mother wore a worried look as she put her hand on Mirabel's shoulder.

Mirabel forced herself to quickly catch her breath again, and slightly pulled away as she noticed Julieta's hand raising to feel her forehead.

"Nope! Nope, not sick, everything's fine!" (she said for the millionth time today) Mirabel didn't even acknowledge what had just happened, and instead grabbed her mom's hand. Through the pain in her throat, she shouted, "Come on, Antonio's surprise is next!" and ushered Julieta to little Tonito, with his animals set up at a small table, an open seat at the head just for her. Abuela had helped him bake mini galletas, some for his animals and some for his tía, and brew some tea for a little tea party. This distracted Julieta long enough for Mirabel to slip away, slightly gritting her teeth as her headache grew stronger.

------

Pepa was receiving her gift from Camilo when Mirabel stopped by to see her. She watched this one from the doorway of the indoor breakfast room, not wanting to interrupt the sweet moment from her rarely sentimental cousin.

"Mami, know how much you love your teas, and how much you miss your old mug set, so-" he paused for a second to let Casita slide over six tea mugs and hid them behind Camilo, "I made you some new ones!" He revealed them to her with a big smile. Genuine, and unlike the ones that Mirabel used to see from him. Pepa was so delighted with her child's gift to her, that a proud little raincloud began to form over her head.

Camilo rambled, "I mean they're a little wonky, I had trouble with the pottery wheel...and Mirabel had to help me with the paint job, and-" Pepa squeezed him tight.

"Mijo, they're perfect!"

Mirabel, still watching the cute parent/child moment in slight secrecy, felt the familiar tickle again in her sinuses. And before she could try to muffle it, she let out a couple more loud sneezes. This, of course, made them aware of her presence. Then, all three of them became aware of the fact that Mirabel desperately needed a tissue, which was fetched for her by Pepa.

"Sorry, sorry, didn't mean to ruin the moment! Carry... *cough cough* on... *cough cough*-" Before she could say anything else, Pepa and Camilo were at her side with a steeping cup of Chamomile.

"Want some honey?" he asked. "Here, it'll soothe your throat a little." Mirabel gave a small smile and nodded.

"Ay cariña," Pepa began to fret about her niece, "your cheeks are so red! Here, why don't you come sit for a minute." She tried to guide her niece down to the couch for some rest. And Mirabel would've loved to, she knew how good it would feel for her pounding head, aching throat, sore joints- but she couldn't. No way, she had to keep going, the day was almost halfway over and there was still so much more to do.

She forced herself to regain some energy. "No thanks, Tía. I'm okay, really! Plus, I think Isa's ready with her surprise, you should go see!" A wave of dizziness washed over her as Mirabel spun around quickly past her aunt and cousin, cup of tea in hand, and left the room. She tried not to make it too noticeable, though it was hard to tell at this point if her efforts were successful.

------

Most of the other surprises became a big blur. Isabela had grown Julieta dozens of new herbs and spices for cooking, Luisa had carved Bruno some new sandstone statues for his room (much more welcoming than his old ones), and Dolores had woven Pepa a yoga mat (blue with small white clouds, perfect for when she wanted some clear skies). All were loved, all were appreciated, but all were like a hazy dream to poor Mirabel, who continued to push herself through the day.

"Alright Mirabel..." she muttered to herself, barely coherent, "you just... you just gotta make it throuuuuugh the day... one more surprise and then yay, the big partayyyyyy-"

"Uhhhh, Mira?" Isabela, accompanied by a very confused Luisa, stopped her sister in her tracks. "What are you doing?"

"Yeah," Luisa chimed in, "you look terrible hermanita. You know, there's no shame in taking a break."

Mirabel giggled, a little delirious at this point, if she was being honest with herself. "That's right, that's right... I taught YOU that..." She put her hand on her sister's arm, and winced a little as the throbbing in her head started to get a little worse. "But, but I'm fine okay? I'm alright. Just a little tired. But I'm okay! Dooon't worry." She nearly slurred the last sentence as she brushed past her sisters, getting help from Casita to stabilize her steps. "Brushed" was actually somewhat generous, as the sick girl far from gracefully stumbled down the stairs to the family living room. Isabela and Luisa, worried about their sister, both left to get the attention of Abuela.

------

Once again, Mirabel kept herself stabilized in the doorway of the living room while she watched Dolores present her gift to Bruno.

On her downtime during the rebuild of Casita, Dolores took advantage of the lack of her super hearing. Mariano, adept at the guitar, jumped at the chance to teach her how to play. Though she started off rough, Dolores practiced with him nearly every day. She developed a real talent for music, and now that her powers were back, she found herself composing little songs now and then. Mariano helped her with her gift to Bruno, which was writing and composing the theme songs to his Rat Telenovelas.

Mirabel walked in to her finishing off her melody, followed by Bruno's finger-tip applause and a standing ovation.

"And that," Dolores whispered, "would be the opening theme to Dos Corazones Chocando."

"¡Magnífico, Dolores!" He praised his niece, and Dolores beamed while taking a small bow. "That would work perfectly, I can see it now! What a way to draw in the audience!"

Dolores had spotted Mirabel in the doorway (hearing her first, but choosing not to say anything), and knew it was time for the town party.

"Come on guys!" Mirabel sputtered out, as loud as she could through the scratchiness of her throat. "Let's - ACHOO- *sniff* go...!" Her tío and prima looked at each other, and then uneasily followed Mirabel out towards the doors of Casita.

When they got there, the rest of the family had been waiting just as they were instructed to. But instead of the excited faces Mirabel had anticipated, everyone looked around worriedly as the feverish, and now noticeably delirious girl made her way to the front of the crowd. They all murmured and whispered amongst each other, things like "she looks terrible, poor kid" and "she's been working way too hard, she should give herself a rest"- all of which Mirabel chose to ignore. It wasn't until she let out a huge sneeze, one that took her back so much that Casita had to tilt the door forward to keep her from falling over, that everyone quited down enough for her to speak.

"Familiaaaaa..." Mirabel croaked out, as loud as she could muster, "to continue this AMAZING birthday surprise, follow me to a party in the center of the Encanto!" She began to choke on air once again as she led the way into the center of town. "¡Vamos!" *sniffle*

As she trudged into town, Mirabel could hear the muffled voices of her family behind her. They were actually yelling out to her, saying "Mira, you're sick!" and "it's ok, you can take break!", but to her blocked up ears it all just sounded like mush. Eventually, it was her Abuela who called out to Mirabel the loudest.

"Mirabel, nieta, come back to Casita!" Mirabel still wasn't used to being shouted to by her Abuela out if this level of care and concern, so she started to slow down. "Let's get you to bed, niña, it looks like you could use some rest."

"Abuela..." an exhausted Mirabel groaned as she whipped herself around to face the rest of her family. "I'm f-" She caught a glimpse of her whole family rushing to her side as her world spun a little too fast, and poor Mirabel was down for the count.

------

"Corazón!"

Mirabel's consciousness quickly returned, and so did her excruciating headache. She realized that she had blacked out, and was now laying with her head in her mom's lap, surrounded by all of the other Madrigals.

"Ay, you're burning up! I knew it, you were sick all day. Pobrecita..." Her father was right beside her mom, stroking Mirabel's hair as he always did when she was a kid to comfort her. It never failed to help.

Pepa sat down with them. "Mira, why didn't you tell us? I know you wanted to do something big for our first birthday all together again, but we would've understood!" Pepa tried her best not to rain on them, only letting out a small drizzle here and there.

"I..." Mirabel started. Unknowingly, she began to cry. "I just wanted to make today special. You guys haven't celebrated your birthdays together in ten years, and I planned out this whole thing with everyone else, I'm sorry I ruined your birthdays-"

"Hey, hey kiddo," said Bruno softly, kneeling down by the group of them on the grass. "Don't say that! You didn't ruin anything. Sometimes bad things just, happen. And there's nothing you can do about it. You're sick, that's not your fault at all!" He joked, "trust me when I say that this is the best birthday I've had in- well, at least ten years!" Mirabel laughed a little.

"We appreciated everything you did for us today, mija." Her mother gave her one of her signature soft, comforting hugs. "¡Te amo mucho!"

"And as far as the party waiting in town," Dolores chimed in softly, "we can redirect it to Casita. You can stay in my room, since it's now all soundproof, and that way you can join in when you feel up to it."

"Sounds perfect," Mirabel replied, as her family helped her back to her feet. They started back to Casita, and she felt a sense of relief knowing that she was about to get some much-needed rest.

In the end, the day did not go perfectly at all, but that wasn't such a bad thing. It surely would be a Madrigal birthday that they remembered forever.

[stasammenarchive]

i just love her design so much.... ugh she’s adorable 

[misscringesposts]

A este paso lo haré sección del blog JAJSJAJSJSJS

¿Recuerdan la otra vez del usuario que decía que los mexicanos cagaron el fandom de CH? Bueno hoy traigo algo mejor sisi

Les daré contexto, en Pinterest ví este meme:

Y mi comentario fue el siguiente:

De hace 8 meses y aunque suene feo dentro del lore cristiano/católico es verdad, pero aún así el mensaje del meme es bonito

¿Que sucede ahora? Que hace unos minutos recibí un comentario que me tomo por sorpresa, el cual es este: (captura completita para que vean que nada se modifica)

Ignorando a la usuaria llamada Rocío prestemos atención a la que usa el nombre de Dolores Madrigal.

E de decir que lo de "Sangre sucia" me hizo cagarme de risa xD

A palabras suyas me llama cristiana a muerte (re falso) y que el infierno es la tierra y el suicidi0 es la salvación para salir de aquí, palabras más palabras menos. También menciona que los cristianos (como yo según su cerebro) No estaríamos listos para un debate como este.

¿Mi respuesta? Amiga ¿neta vas a hacer un debate taaaaaaaaaaaan complejo que en teoría ganarás? El meme es para que sientas bonito y mi comentario te lo quita, esa es la intención. Lo escribí en ese momento según mis recuerdos y hoy decidí ver si estaba equivocada o no y ¿adivina qué?

"Aunque el Tribunal de Justicia Europeo acepta el asesinato de uno mismo como un derecho humano, la Iglesia Católica lo ve como una contradicción fundamental de las leyes de Dios, que es el único Señor sobre la vida y la muerte."

¿De dónde lo saqué? De aquí:

No lo recorte por pereza pero ahí se ve el nombre de la página.

Conclusión: Según la Biblia Cristiana el suicidi0 es pecado porque "Dios" dijo:"no matarás" eso incluye tanto vidas ajenas como la tuya.

Ya que si después de la muerte sea real no se, que si es correcto o no tampoco, lo que si se es que el debate de si en el cristianismo es pecado el suicidi0 a concluido y el resultado es este mires por dónde lo mires.

En otras religiones tampoco lo sé mija no joda apenas y me se la tabla del 7

Y eso es todo banda, si me van a fumar que sea con motivos, el domingo viene mi tía cristiana a un pollito en mi casa así que le voy a preguntar a ver qué me contesta y yo les aviso para que esto no solo quede en mi opinión y la de una página de internet.

Se la lavan y no se tomen todo a la mala o les van a salir arrugas, canas y una embolia bais ✨

[fanficsandfluff]

A New Miracle - Chapter 14

Fandom: Encanto

Character(s): OC (Original Character) Alexa, Bruno Madrigal, Julieta Madrigal, Pepa Madrigal, Mirabel Madrigal, the rest of the Madrigal family

The next morning, the Madrigals gathered for their day's usual chores and events. And there was no sign of Bruno, which wasn't all that unusual. But Alexa was also missing. This got the cousins and younger siblings whispering amongst each other, giggling and trading assumptions. Dolores heard the start of the telenovela date during the day but didn't listen all the way through to try and give them some privacy, staying in her room. And the rest of the night she was asleep, so she couldn't hear more details then.

The adults immediately didn't let their absence go unnoticed either.

"Are they in the house?" Pepa asked Julieta, who shrugged in response.

"I hope they went somewhere private for whatever they're doing," Félix remarked and Pepa slapped his arm, "Ay! Kids are here!"

The breakfast ended with no signs of the pair. Julieta went inside to help casita clean the morning's dishes, like she always did. She heard shuffling by the door of the kitchen, first assuming it was Agustín trying to sneak up on her.

"Agustín, I hope you're not playing ar--" she turned to catch him in the act but saw Bruno attempting to sneak in with Alexa behind him, the two holding hands.

"Hi, sis," Bruno waved, looking nervous.

Julieta was grinning at the two knowingly, "Look at you two. Sleeping beauties," she teased, "Do you want something to eat?"

"Yes, please, Julieta," Alexa passed Bruno and went towards the older woman, "We're very sorry for missing breakfast with everyone. Let me," she reached up to the cabinets to retrieve plates for her and Bruno but winced on the way up. Her back was killing her from yesterday's floor nap in the walls.

"You both need a special breakfast," Julieta said, and started to work on a new food as opposed to having Alexa gather leftovers, "Had a busy night?" she inquired, noticing most especially Alexa wearing her brother's clothes...

"We weren't doing anything, uh," Bruno tried to defend he and Alexa's reputations, "... bad..." he whispered.

Julieta huffed out a laugh, "Shh, Brunito, I don't need to know the details. Alexa, go sit. And tell him, too."

Alexa nodded, first swinging towards the sink and grabbing her and Bruno glasses of water. Alexa sat opposite of Bruno, tapping the sides of her glass with her fingertips. They were silent as Julieta cooked. Bruno kept glancing towards Alexa and looking away, her doing the same. Bruno intentionally made a silly face the next time Alexa glanced at him and she spit the water she had just put in her mouth out of her nose, making Bruno laugh. Alexa whined and covered up her nose with her hands.

Julieta looked over at the commotion, and positively beamed to see Bruno looking so happy again.

"Mean," Alexa took the edge of Bruno's poncho and dabbed her wet chin and nose with it, "There, now you have a gross cloak."

"Oh, that thing's been gross, querida," Bruno grinned.

"Ew!" Alexa lowered the cloth from her face immediately, making Bruno snicker again.

Julieta was practically blushing listening to all this... teasing. It was so lovey dovey. Bruno sounded like the Bruno she remembered when they were teenagers. Mischievous and teasing and playful. He'd love to rag on them, especially Pepa. And the pet name was new...

Julieta almost burned the tortilla she was heating up getting lost in her own thoughts. She quickly flipped them and filled them with egg and leftover bean from the morning.

"Here," Julieta finally finished cooking and handed the couple their own individual wraps, "Enjoy."

"Thank you, Julieta," Alexa smiled at the woman before taking a big bite out of the burrito-like wrap. She was very hungry and greatly appreciated the food. And after chewing the first bite, Alexa felt a million times better. She started stretching out her back and twisting in her seat to feel the new energy, "Gracias," she was so grateful she tried her hand at Spanish.

Julieta giggled and nodded, "Of course," she resumed her original task of cleaning the dishes with casita.

"Buenas días, sleepy heads!" it was Agustín who entered jovially just then, greeting Bruno and Alexa. Alexa waved to him as she had a chunk of food in her mouth and learned her lesson about speaking while chewing. He gave them both a strange, suspicious look, but then it morphed to him seemingly knowing something. He went to Julieta to speak with her... in whispers.

Bruno looked toward Alexa who didn't seem to notice his brother-in-law's reaction.

"Agustín, where'd you put the--oh," Félix entered next and it was slowly growing into a party in the kitchen, "Heyyyy..." he grinned wide.

Alexa rose a brow and Bruno looked more intensely at her, "Um," he cleared his throat, "Maybe I should take the poncho back."

"Oh sh--" Alexa scrambled to take it off, face turning bright red, last on the uptake of realizing exactly what everyone was thinking when they looked at the two of them. She tossed it at Bruno's face and looked at the adults, "Nothing happened! Like that!" she clarified.

"Honey, we weren't saying that," Julieta began, "It's okay."

"What happened!?" Mirabel flew into the kitchen at that exact moment and Dolores poked her head into the doorway with her, "Something happened!? Dolores said she heard defensive happenings..."

Dolores made one of her squeaks but stared at Alexa and Bruno still being seated. Alexa slowly turned her head to look at Bruno. It was his turn to answer questions; she didn't think she was ready.

"N-No! You crazies!" Bruno stood up, his balled up poncho in his fist, "Nothing's happening! Nothing happened! We just woke up late, that's all. We had a long night--"

Félix made another 'oh' noise and Dolores gasped. Alexa paled.

"Stoppit!" Bruno was getting flustered, too.

"Where did everyone go!?" a cloud made its way into the kitchen before Pepa did, but everyone now turned to her. She walked in on half the familia and observed everyone's faces before landing on Bruno whose hand was still out and pointing in accusation, "Something happened."

Bruno slapped his hand to his face.

Félix sidled himself over to Pepa and whispered into her ear, "She was wearing his poncho."

Pepa gasped and Dolores squeaked, "Oh!"

"Oh my god, okay!" Bruno started talking again, standing up taller, as if he was commanding his Hernando persona into existence, "We had a date last night. Not that kind of date!" he ground his teeth together when he saw all his family's faces shift, "It was really nice, alright?" his voice got smaller.

"We had a nice time," Alexa piped up from her seat at the table.

"Things happened, words were said, and-and I asked her to marry me," Bruno went full-in, which Alexa was completely not prepared for. Her mouth morphed into an 'O' and the rest of the family gasped in tandem.

"Too far?" Bruno recoiled in fear, looking Alexa's way.

The room was stuck in dead silence before Mirabel cheered, pumping her fist into the air, "Wooohooo! I knew it was gonna happen!"

"Wait!" Agustín stopped everyone's pending outburst, "But did you say yes, Alexa?"

And now all eyes were on her and she smiled out of pure nerves, "Yes."

Now everyone joined in the cheers.

"Wepa, Bruno!"

"Felicidades!"

"Oh my gosh, Brunito-tito!" Pepa squished Bruno's cheeks in her fingers.  "Oh, I'm so happy for you, amor," Julieta said as she and Pepa surrounded Bruno on either side and wrapped him up in a hug.

"Welcome to la familia," Félix gave Alexa a hug once she was pulled upward by his strong arm. Agustín gave her hand a kiss. Mirabel bounded up to her and gave her a huge hug.

"Oh my gooood!" she giggled excitedly, "I knew you two were perfect for each other."

"I think your pants helped seal the deal," Alexa grinned, "Couldn't have done it without you."

"Pssh," Mirabel brushed her off but liked the joke, "It was a team effort."

"We have to get mamá and the others to tell them the good news," Julieta planted a big kiss on her brother's cheek before her and Pepa went off to find the family in the town.

When Bruno was released, he went Alexa's way and saw two of his nieces with her.

"Congrats, Tío," Mirabel smiled wide and gave him a hug, too, "You couldn't have done it without us," she whispered so Alexa didn't hear and used her head to gesture to Dolores.

"What does that mean?"

"Oh come on, you don't think we haven't been helping this along this whole time?" Mirabel rose her eyebrow.

"Well--no, not really," Bruno seemed taken aback.

Dolores also stepped forward and she pushed Mirabel aside, "Don't listen to her. You did great," she patted his shoulder. Bruno breathed out a laugh and he shook his head, gathering both his nieces into a tight hug now.

"I mean, I believe them," Alexa shrugged, her arms folded across her chest, "I don't see how you handled all this alone. There's way too much stress involved. And you're a ball of stress. A big, rat ball. Of strehess..." Alexa was doing well handling her serious facade until Bruno started approaching her with calculated steps.

"No, keep talking, what's next?" Bruno jumped forward towards Alexa as she was backing up and she avoided him, running for the hills. Bruno chased.

Dolores and Mirabel stood and watched. Mirabel commented to her cousin, "He's hopeless."

"He's in love," Dolores clarified.

Bruno chased Alexa into the entryway of casita and the house itself raised a wall in front of Alexa so she couldn't run further.

"Hey!" she complained but let out a yell when she was grabbed from around her waist and hoisted into the air. Bruno set her down and grinned, giving her sides a pinch, making her recoil into him, spinning so she now faced him. As they stood there, Bruno's arms around her and Alexa looking slightly down at him because yes she was slightly taller than the thin rat man... the doors to casita flew open and there stood the remaining family that was helping in the town. Alma led the pack with Pepa and Julieta flanking her.

Bruno froze upon seeing his mother at the door. He didn't release Alexa from his hold. She noticed him freezing like that and she tilted herself so he only had one hand resting around her back.

Alma walked up to the pair of them, emotions hard to place on her. She seemed to look up and over the pair. The candle held a fuller flame than she'd seen since rebuilding the casita. She finally smiled and tears brimmed in her eyes. She opened her arms and went right up to Bruno, giving him a big hug. Alexa stepped herself to the side so Bruno could have this moment with his mom.

In the meantime, Luisa went right up to Alexa and lifted her off the ground in a hug. Alexa felt her feet dangling in the air and she chuckled. "I'm so happy for you guys," Luisa said after delivering another squeeze and setting her down. Isabela gave another hug and popped a rose into her hair, tucking her hair behind her ear, "Perfect," she smiled wide at her.

"Oh no, now I gotta say my tía beat me in a staring contest?" Camilo groaned.

"Sure do," Alexa laughed softly and she just felt so loved that now she was doling out hugs, giving one to Camilo.

Then she got to Antonio who congratulated her and she squeezed his little body in a hug, too. When she stood back up and turned around, she was face-to-face with Alma.

"Hi, Abuela," Alexa greeted, "I-- I don't know what to say... thank you? For everything. For my new life, for a family, for a home--"

Alma smiled at her, "No need to thank me, Alexita. You are our new miracle," she cupped Alexa's cheek with her hand before lovingly kissing her on the cheek.

Alexa could've broken down weeping right then and there. She took a long look at everyone standing around her and even saw the villagers grouped outside the casita. This was her new family. This was the family she'd been missing out on for four decades. The one she never had. Alexa felt herself literally spinning slowly in a circle to see everyone's faces before landing back on Bruno's.

"Heh," Alexa breathed, smiling so big her cheeks begun to hurt. She ran towards Bruno and nearly knocked him over with the hug she gave him, also planting her lips onto his in a kiss. An eruption of cheers sounded from her soon to be official familia.

[familia-madrigal]

Eternal Winter

When Pepa Madrigal lost her precious child, the entire Encanto faced years of never-ending winter.

Ch.1 || Birthday Picnic

--------

"Who's ready for an adventure?!" "Camilo, it's just a picnic, calm down." The morning of Pepa's side of the family was incredibly busy, and obviously loud, as they got ready for a picnic to celebrate Antonio's sixth birthday.

"Pa, here's the basket you asked for." "Thank you hija." As Felix prepared the stuff they needed, Pepa got her youngest son ready and calmed Camilo down from his sugar high.

" Alright, everything's set. Pepi, come with the kids already. We don't wanna arrive there at sundown.*

The three children placed their bags t the back of the carriage and got in the front. Pepa followed in after checking everything else, while Felix got on the horse to deliver his family to their destination.

--------

"We're here!" Felix announced. The brothers got excited to explore while Dolores helped her mamá unload their things.

"It's pretty quiet here, right?" Pepa asked her daughter as they set down the picnic mat. Dolores hummed in response as she tried to check in on her brothers who had wandered off to God knows where.

"Felix, will you please go pick up the boys so we could start eating? I'm starving." "You got it amor." Her husband saluted as he jogged off to gather his sons.

--------

"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you , happy birthday Antonio, happy birthday to you" The whole family sang while Pepa held the cake close to Antonio.

After the birthday boy blew the cake, they cheered and began eating, following Camilo's lead of course.

While eating, Felix notices her daughter seems distraught.

" Dolores, are you alright?"

"huh? Of course pa, I'm just trying to listen if there are anything unusual."

"Don't worry about it Dolores, just enjoy yourself today okay?"

"Mhm, thanks pa."

Dolores tried to focus on what's around her at the moment. She shut herself off other sounds other than her family's. She found it quite relieving, although later on, she'll wish she had go against her father's advice instead.