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A Tale of Dos Oruguitas CH 7: Accident

On that day, the sun was at its peak, several weeks had passed since Amelia started visiting the Madrigal house to paint the commissioned portrait. 

During the days she visited the young couple, they followed the same routine. Both cousins would arrive and greet the couple, then Amelia would set up her easel ready to work while bringing up a conversation topic. Finally, she would pass needles and yarn to Ana so she could stay entertained while they worked, allowing them to momentarily forget about her, to ignore her without fear that something might happen. 

It was a safe place; nothing would happen, nothing at all. 

Today was no different; their routine was the same as the previous weeks, except for the unusually intense sunlight. 

And that the painting was nearly finished. 

Give me one more hour, and I'll be able to give you the portrait today,- Amelia said from behind the easel to the couple, excited about how it was turning out.- I know it's longer than usual, and you must be tired, but I just need to add a few details,- she explained, trying to convince them. She didn't want to make them waste another day for just a few remaining details. 

Luckily, the couple agreed to her request, excited that after that hour, they would finally see the result. 

Without further delay, Amelia continued with the painting, only stopping occasionally to wipe the sweat from her forehead. 

The sun was too powerful today; therefore, it was also very hot, it was one of the hottest days that Encanto had experienced in recent years.  

Ana sighed, tired of waiting, exhausted because of the sun. She felt the needles she used for knitting were hot in her hands, and her lips were dry. -Water...- she whispered while looking around for some water. As she turned her head towards the couple, she could see Dolores discreetly pointing towards a room. 

Thank you, - she whispered back, greeted by a small smile from Dolores. She left her needles on the floor along with the yarn and stood up while dusting off her dress. 

She looked back at the couple, at her cousin, who seemed completely absorbed in what she was doing and decided not to say anything. She didn't want to interrupt her. She didn't want to be a bother. 

So, she went to where Dolores had pointed, which turned out to be the kitchen. 

She glanced at it for a moment; it was so big, and she approached the countertop. 

She couldn't reach it. 

Ana began to jump, trying to grab onto the countertop, but only managed to slip and end up sitting on the floor. 

The impact made her want to cry; her eyes were already watering when the movement of the little house's floor caught her attention. The floorboards moved rhythmically as if they were trying to tell her something, and before she knew it, the floor dragged her in its movement, rocking her from side to side, eliciting a laugh from her. 

Once she stopped laughing, she could see how the floor rose, creating a small staircase to the countertop. Without further delay, Ana stood up once again, shook her dress, and began to climb the little stairs. 

On the countertop, Casita had brought a glass and a pitcher of water to Ana's height so she could help herself. 

Ana smiled gratefully; she adored Casita, she adored the magic of that town, and she wished with all her might that they would stay there forever. 

She knew her cousin wasn't convinced by the place, that she didn't like the magic, but Ana couldn't see anything wrong with it. 

The place was cheerful, and warm, just like their previous home. 

Full of happy people, with so much to see, so much to do. 

They should stay there; they hadn't seen their family in years, and although she didn't remember much, she missed them. 

And she was sure Amelia missed them too. 

Maybe if they stayed in that place, they would eventually find them, and everyone could be as happy as the people who lived there. 

Her cousin could smile again, could play with her again, could read her stories again... 

Her cousin could be happy again. 

The little house moved the floor again, catching Ana's attention, who realized she still hadn't drunk any water, that her mouth was drier than before, but she felt moisture on her face. -Sorry, - she said, wiping the tears that had been on her cheeks, and then began to pour water into the glass to drink it and climb down the little stairs that the little house had created. 

She had to convince her cousin, make her see the beauty of magic, make her understand that this was the place where they should wait for the others and that once they found them, everything would be as it was before. 

She was sure she could understand; she would agree with her, and soon everyone would be together again. 

With that thought, Ana left the kitchen, back to where the couple and Amelia were, happily taking a sip from the glass of water. 

It seemed they had finished; it was the perfect time to talk to her. -Ima! - Ana shouted as she approached, catching Amelia's attention in the process. 

But before she could say anything else, screams were heard in the background. 

José, María, where are you going!?- a childish voice shouted, accompanied by the sound of footsteps hitting the ground. 

In a second, a pair of lemurs appeared; they ran towards Ana's skirts, where they began to spin around and climb on her. 

Ana, startled by the sudden appearance of the animals, tried to run towards her cousin, but on the way, she stumbled over her knitting material, which she had left on the floor before, and before she could remedy it, the sound of fabric tearing filled the air. 

Are you okay? - asked a little boy with black curls, who was riding a jaguar. -I'm sorry, they just wanted to say hello, - the boy assured her, but Ana could only look scared at where her arm was. 

The painting Amelia had been working on for weeks. 

Amelia looked at Ana and then at the painting, without reacting. 

Ana, on the other hand, looked at her cousin, frightened, trembling. - I, I... - she stammered, not knowing what to say, what to do. In an attempt to get up from the floor, she put her hand on the glass she had been drinking from which shattered at some point, cutting her hand in the process. 

Be careful! - Dolores was heard saying as she approached Ana to help her up from the floor. 

Amelia watched everything from her place, surprised, while Ana was helped by Dolores to get up without hurting herself further. Amelia looked at the portrait in her hands. - I'm sorry...- she was heard saying receiving strange looks from those present. 

A sigh. - I'll redo the portrait for you, - Amelia assured them, looking at the hole in the canvas, pinching the bridge of her nose in the process. - You won't owe me anything in return, but it'll take me a little longer than usual. Fortunately, I can fix this hole a bit and use it as a reference. I might need to come another day to add some details, but nothing more, - she said, this time directing her gaze towards Dolores. 

Ana shivered in her place; her cousin's gaze had no emotion, and with each step she took toward her, she became more nervous. 

Was she angry? Was she going to yell at her? 

Suddenly she felt a hand on her head, a touch, two touches, and then it was gone. 

I apologize again for all this. We won't bother you anymore, - she heard her cousin say as she looked up and saw her moving away from her side and starting to gather the things they had brought. 

Dolores asked her if she was okay while removing small pieces of glass from her hands, the strange boy kept apologizing. 

Ana just stared at her cousin, how she prepared to leave. 

She wouldn't be able to convince her, would she? 

She must have been upset with her, right? 

She was annoying, right? 

[606xx]

A Tale of Dos Oruguitas CH.6: Attempt

The Madrigal house rose once again in front of Amelia, who watched it with a disheartened expression. The magical building opened its doors to them and greeted them with one of its windows, receiving no response. 

Amelia, unaware of who was in front of her, sighed and walked forward, lost in her thoughts until she bumped into someone. 

Amelia? - Dolores' whispering voice asked, trying to regain the attention of the aforementioned. - Are you okay? - she said, placing one of her hands on Amelia's shoulders. 

Raising her head, Amelia looked into Dolores' eyes, not knowing how long she had been in front of her, and forced a smile.- Yes, yes, don't worry,- she replied quickly.- I just had my head in the clouds for a moment, but everything's fine,- she affirmed, glancing at Ana, motioning for her to come closer. 

Ana approached Amelia hesitantly and returned Dolores' gaze, greeting, - Hello...- Her voice was low, uncertain, far from the cheerful behavior she had shown in previous days. 

Dolores only smiled back and returned the greeting. 

Before the woman in the red skirt could say anything else to Amelia, Amelia herself asked, -Could we come in? I'm sure Ana must be tired of standing for so long, - trying to deflect attention away from herself. 

Yes, of course, - Dolores quickly responded, ushering them inside the little house. 

Ana stepped forward first, following Dolores swiftly and leaving Amelia behind, who with a sad look and a sigh, entered the inner courtyard of the casita where Ana, along with Dolores and a man she didn't know, were waiting. 

I'm Mariano, nice to meet you, - the man introduced himself to Amelia with a smile, once she approached close enough, trying to shake her hand. 

Amelia looked at the man's hand in front of her a little awkwardly, then glanced at the bags of materials she was holding and made a grimace.- I'm Amelia,- she introduced herself to the man as she dropped the bags on the ground and reached out her hand to shake his -And this is Ana,- she introduced Ana, who greeted Mariano with a timid "hello." 

Tell me exactly what you want while I set up the easel, - said Amelia, wasting no time as she began to set up the easel and organize the materials she would use for the painting. 

In the background, Dolores' whispering voice explained what she wanted. But when Amelia looked up and saw Camilo watching them from one of the balconies of the inner courtyard of the house, she stopped hearing Dolores' voice. 

Camilo looked at her seriously, expressionless, leaning on one of the railings, and Amelia couldn't help but feel a lump in her throat as she remembered everything that had happened a few hours ago. 

Memories flooded her mind, and a sour feeling filled both her chest and her throat. She regretted it, but at the same time, she believed she had done the best thing. 

At some point, she lowered her head, avoiding his gaze, listening to the click of his tongue until the sound of a door closing broke the silence of the courtyard. 

Amelia...- Dolores called her attention again, to which Amelia quickly turned her head and, looking into the other woman's brown eyes, forced herself to smile again. 

Sorry, what were you saying?- she asked again about the instructions for her commission as she finished organizing the few utensils still in the bag. 

Nothing, nothing, - said Dolores, unsure how to steer the conversation after seeing both her and her brother's reactions to each other - I trust your ability. 

Thank you, - Amelia thanked her for the trust placed in her, while she took out a couple of needles and yarn from the materials bag and offered them to Ana. - Here, take this, it might take a while. Here's something to keep you entertained, - she said to Ana with a smile, who took the needles and wool from her cousin's hand carefully and immediately sat on the floor to knit something.  

Dolores and Mariano watched this action surprised, seeing Ana's skill at knitting despite her young age; she did it quickly but without making mistakes. 

A smile escaped from Amelia's lips due to the poorly hidden surprise on their faces, genuine, for the first time in a long time. She could never stop being proud of her cousin. -Get into a comfortable position while I sketch; I don't know how long it'll take to complete, - she said while hiding her laughter with her hand and waiting for the couple to settle in. 

Dolores was sitting on a seat in front of the easel and Mariano was behind her, with one hand placed on Dolores' back as he looked at her lovingly. Even so, Dolores couldn't see him the same way, her anxious gaze traveled from Amelia to Mariano and her tense posture revealed that concerns were running through her head freely. 

Dolores, perhaps it is not the most comfortable position to maintain in the long term - Amelia commented with sympathy when she saw the rigidity of her back and the tension marked on her face - I will finish the sketch before you realize it, but still. ...- She said, letting the air carry her words away as she looked at Dolores with sympathy reflected on her face. 

Dolores tried to relax in vain, still tense from her thoughts. -Don't worry, please start, - she said, biting her lip, holding back words that wanted to escape her lips. 

Mariano looked at his partner worriedly and asked - What's wrong? - to which Dolores, silent, shook her head. 

Amelia looked thoughtfully at Dolores but decided to ignore her tension for the moment or at least act as if she did. -I'll start then, - Amelia said, looking at Dolores, who nodded. 

It was then that Amelia began to make movements on the canvas as if she were sketching, but the pencil never touched the fabric of the canvas. -It seems like you have something to say, if so, I'm all ears. - she said with a sibylline smile towards Dolores but hiding behind the canvas. 

Dolores jumped in her place like a girl who had been discovered in the middle of a prank. Given her nervousness, Amelia stepped forward and added, -Whatever you say, my lips will be sealed, nothing will come of here, - while she made subtle movements with her arms without stopping, trying to make her performance believable. 

Looking at Amelia, Dolores said - For my part it's the same - to which the painter looked at her, raising an eyebrow, questioning - I mean, I won't tell anyone about what we talked about today - she added with a serious face, trying to sound trustworthy for the painter. 

So, tell me, what do you want to talk about? - Amelia asked, curious as to what could be making a person, she considers quite calm so tense. 

Did you receive my letter? - Dolores asked, trying to be subtle when starting the topic of conversation. 

Amelia, on the other hand, quickly understanding what Dolores wanted to talk about, couldn't help but make a grimace which luckily, she had time to hide behind the canvas. -Of course, if not, I wouldn't be here, - she answered her question as if she did not understand the hidden motive behind it. 

Dolores, dissatisfied with Amelia's response, asked again - Sure, but did you read what I wrote? - insisting on the content of the letter. 

Amelia's face became expressionless as she remembered for a moment everything that was written in that letter, her arm stopping in place, stopping her performance. -My answer remains the same. - Her monotonous voice resonated in the air, making way for the silence that reigned for moments after her words were formed 

Amelia let silence rule the atmosphere in an attempt that perhaps and with a glimmer of luck it would decide to enter her head, but unfortunately, it decided one more day not to step on her. 

Observing her surroundings, Amelia realized that perhaps she had let more time pass than she should, the tension caused by the stillness could be breathed into the atmosphere and was reflected in the shoulders of those present, even Ana herself who was once knitting a simple pattern had stopped the movement of her needles and, straight as a stick, was looking askance at her cousin. 

Amelia turned her gaze towards Dolores and Mariano, who were observing her, waiting for her to make the slightest sound that would help them identify how to act in front of her. To the surprise of everyone present, Amelia smiled again, appearing friendly. -How did you meet? - she asked the couple as if nothing had ever happened in this short period of time. 

They both looked at each other and Dolores, realizing that she would not be able to get a word out of Amelia regarding what was written in the letter, accepted her defeat. -It's a long story, - she said with a smile and being somewhat calmer for the first time all afternoon. 

We have time, - Amelia continued, beginning to draw lines on the canvas and listening to the lively story that the couple began to tell her. 

The sound of the sharp needles colliding while knitting accompanied the conversation between the lovers and the painter, allowing the discomfort that once arose in the environment to completely dissipate. 

Allowing the afternoon to end with the barely audible purring of the jaguars as a finishing touch. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you for doing me this favor - Amelia said sitting in the chair in that kitchen while looking at the old woman - I know it is hasty due to the time of year in which we are, but I have to think about her future, so I can't allow her to be further behind. 

I understand I'm just worried- The Old Woman said, approaching Amelia and looking at her- Will she be able to keep up? As you've told me, it's been a while since she last stepped foot in one. 

During all this time I have taken it upon myself to teach her everything I could learn, I know that she will be fine in that aspect - Amelia answered still with a worried face - but above all I cannot keep her, it is not healthy, she is still a little girl and she needs to interact with those of her age. 

The woman who was previously only observing her placed one of her hands on her shoulder. -You are also young, you could enter, we would have no problem helping you. 

Getting up from her seat and removing the woman's hand from her shoulder, Amelia said, - You´re already helping me, and although I'm indeed young, I'm not that young either, me, coming in could complicate times and make her not be able to relate as well as someone her age. I have already considered this a few times, so I must decline your help. - with sadness that she tried to avoid being reflected. 

I understand, - said the old woman, observing her once again, -so I have nothing more to add, as we agreed, Ana will be able to enter school soon. - And as she walked away again towards a seat, Amelia could be heard saying 

-I appreciate it, Doña Alma- 

[606xx]

The sunflower and the moonflower

[606xx]

A few days later, a toucan appeared at Amelia's window, carrying a letter in its beak. It was from Dolores, who among other things asked her about a day to start painting the portrait. Ignoring the rest of the questions in the letter, Amelia quickly responded regarding the portrait, agreeing on a date to meet at Casita to begin painting it. 

The agreed-upon day arrived, and Amelia was gathering the tools she would take to Casita to start the portrait, sighing heavily. After that night, she wouldn't know what expression to wear once she got there. 

She hadn't imagined that this would be the beginning of her new life. That night, once they arrived at the house, she couldn't calm Ana down, couldn't explain anything that had happened, and Ana fell asleep from sheer exhaustion. 

The truth was, she wouldn't be able to explain what had happened in a million years, how to put it into words. She worried about seeing the disappointment in Ana's eyes, that she blamed her as much as she blamed herself. 

She wouldn't be able to handle it, it would tear her apart inside. 

Thoughts consumed her mind as she finished gathering the tools she would take for the portrait. As she picked up one of the pencils, it slipped from her hand, rolling across the table and falling to the floor. 

The sound seemed to snap Amelia back to reality, and she bent down to try to pick it up, but at the last moment, a hand appeared in her field of vision, startling her to the point that she ended up sitting on the floor from the shock. 

Need help with that? - Camilo said, with a hand behind his neck and a friendly smile. When he received no response, he extended his hand in an attempt to help her up. 

Amelia looked at him angrily, thinking that Camilo had only come to mock her as he had done every time they met, but this anger only lasted a moment. 

She got up from the floor with a sigh, ignoring Camilo's offered hand, and dusted off her clothes. Without looking at him, she asked, - What the hell are you doing here? - as she snatched the pencil from his hand abruptly. 

Camilo stared at her, unsure how to begin, and Amelia, fed up with his silence, continued gathering the remaining utensils, ignoring his presence in the process until she decided to ask,- Did you sneak in through the window again?- as she passed by Camilo toward it, scrutinizing it closely.-But I locked it...- 

You're more careless than you think, - Camilo managed to say, realizing instantly that he shouldn't have said that. - I didn't mean it in a bad way, - he quickly defended himself from Amelia's annoyed but tired gaze, which turned away and leaned against the window. 

Speak quickly, I don't know if you've heard or guessed by what I'm doing now, but I have to leave soon, - she said brusquely to Camilo, her patience practically nonexistent. 

Camilo, puzzled by her response, was about to refute her, as she was only going with his sister, but Amelia started a countdown that made Camilo understand he needed to hurry. 

However, it wasn't easy to put it into words; he didn't want to sound abrupt, but after the previous night, he was worried. He had to order his words in a way that she would understand, but the countdown only made him more nervous; time was running out, and he still hadn't said anything. Before she could finish, Camilo, agitated, ended up shouting, -Are you okay?!- which made her stop counting. 

Amelia looked surprised at Camilo, who only looked at her with concern. He tried to approach the window, to approach her and ask her about what happened the other night. However, with each step Camilo took toward her, Amelia withdrew further into herself, biting her lip, furrowing her brow, crossing her arms, and avoiding his gaze. 

When Camilo seemed to reach her side, Amelia said, - Zero, your time's up, - finishing her countdown. Camilo looked at her surprised, trying to make her look into his eyes so they could talk, so she could explain what happened, what was happening, but Amelia only moved away from him and returned to the worktable. - Leave my house, - she said firmly but in a whisper. 

And Camilo, bewildered, looked at her once more as he began to feel his blood boil.- I don't even know why I bother,- he said with anger in his voice, quickly approaching the window, and before leaving through it, he looked at Amelia again, still in front of the table without giving him a glance. He just wanted to talk to her, try to help her with whatever had happened to her that night. Was she just going to dismiss him like that? Not even going to look at him? 

This has been a waste of time, - he said aloud, his voice showing his anger, His gaze, hard, directed towards Amelia, but giving her one last chance to speak, to turn around and explain. 

However, Amelia remained still, looking at her worktable, so still that it seemed she hadn't heard him. 

Causing Camilo to finish leaving through the window, giving up on her. 

-

Amelia heard one last sigh from Camilo as he left through the window, knowing that it hadn't been the best way to treat him. She wasn't usually like this; she didn't like being like this. 

I'm ready... Are you almost done? - Ana's little voice from the other side of the door interrupted her thoughts. She opened her eyes, which she didn't realize she had closed, and looked at her hands. 

She was trembling again; she would have to learn to control it, she thought as she finished gathering some utensils. - I'll be there soon, go to the living room, we'll leave in a moment- she responded to Ana, who was about to open the door after a while without receiving a response. 

Amelia vaguely heard Ana agree with her and head towards the living room, leaving her once again, alone. 

Taking advantage of the moment, Amelia left the bag with the utensils next to the door and gave a quick look around the room, staring at the window. - I should close it, - she said to herself, approaching the window, closing it, and this time locking it. 

Although everything was ready to leave, she stood there for a couple of minutes looking at the now-closed window, her mind recalling everything that had just happened. Unconsciously, her eyes shifted to a painting leaning against one of the room's walls, almost completely covered by a cloth. She approached it and looked at it for a moment. Until she decided it was time to leave and used the cloth to cover it completely this time. 

She walked to the door and grabbed the bag, putting her hand on the doorknob, she stopped abruptly, looking at the window one last time and saying to herself,- I'm okay, - before wiping away the tears that had started to fall down her cheeks at some point, and finally opening the door to head to the living room where Ana was waiting for her. 

[606xx]

A Tale of Dos Oruguitas CH.4: Cold Dinner

The darkness of the night enveloped the small town of Encanto, where every alley and corner seemed to come to life under the moonlight. Amelia and Ana stood in front of the peculiar house in the village, its windows seeming to greet them as they opened towards them. 

And here we are again- Amelia sighed, placing a hand on Ana's back, who was waving back at the house with one of her hands. 

Amelia looked at her affectionately, but her thoughts were quickly interrupted by a voice. 

It seems she likes you, little one, - Camilo said, leaning against the door with his arms crossed, looking at them with a slight smile. 

The mood quickly changed to a furious one upon seeing him, pointing a finger at him and instinctively stepping in front of Ana. 

In response, Camilo waved at her and made a mocking bow. -You seem quite surprised to see me. Do I look that good? - he said, straightening up and winking at Amelia in the process. 

Amelia reacted with a grimace, annoyed by Camilo's behavior, wrinkling her nose and clicking her tongue, causing both Ana and Camilo to laugh at her reaction. 

Camilo, leave them alone for 5 minutes, - Dolores said, approaching the door with soft steps. 

Once she reached it, she gave Camilo a reproachful tap on the shoulder, causing her brother to stagger and look at her with annoyance. 

Amelia, Ana, nice to see you again, - Dolores greeted, ignoring her brother's complaints as he grumbled and walked toward the dining room. - They're waiting for us in the dining room, - she pointed out, leading the way. -You remember who I am, right? - she asked, smiling gently at them. 

Dolores if I'm not mistaken - says Amelia, reminding her of her intervention in the morning conversation - If you want, later we could talk about the portrait you wanted me to make of you - Amelia continues this time with a softer tone of voice when she is reminded, for her cousin, that Dolores' gift was super hearing. 

Dolores nodded, smiling at both guests and entered the dining room, leaving them at the entrance. 

Amelia took the opportunity to observe the place. There were more people compared to the morning, and the atmosphere felt different. However, her scrutiny of the room was interrupted once Doña Alma approached them, causing Ana to become shy and hold onto Amelia's hand as she approached. 

I'm glad you made it without any problems,- Alma said, smiling at them.- I told my grandson to accompany you,- she continued, glancing for a moment at Camilo, and then returning her gaze to Amelia,- but when he said he wasn't going to, I thought something might have happened.- 

Amelia glanced at Camilo, who was sitting on one of the chairs at the table, and sighed. -Everything's fine, don't worry, - she said. She and the boy might not have started on the best foot, but that wouldn't be an excuse for his family to scold him. She wasn't going to be mean to him. -We just didn't think he needed to accompany us. We knew the way. - 

Alma looked at Amelia with concern, not entirely satisfied with the response she had given. - Still, it's very late, and it could be dangerous for you to walk alone, - she insisted. 

Before Amelia could say anything, Camilo's voice was heard from his seat. -It would be more dangerous for anyone who tries something than for them, - he said, looking at Amelia with a mocking smile, almost sticking his tongue out at her. 

Amelia fixed her gaze on Camilo, her eyelid twitching slightly with anger. As she heard someone yelling at Camilo for what he had just said, she decided that maybe it was best not to lose her temper and to agree with him in a friendly manner. 

Don't worry, he's right, - Amelia said to Pepa, who had scolded Camilo with a shout for what he had said. Pepa looked at her surprised; her face was like an open book, and anyone who looked at her could tell she was wondering if Amelia was serious. However, before the question could be thrown into the air, Amelia continued, -As you've said, the world can be dangerous, so since I was young, I learned the basics to defend myself. - Amelia turned again, this time looking at Camilo with a sweet smile on her lips but looking directly into his eyes. - So, if anyone ever tries to get smart with us, don't worry, I'll make sure they don't try it again...- 

Camilo swallowed hard, trembling in his place as he heard the last sentence, falling silent and grasping the threat. On the other hand, Julieta, sensing the slight tension that had arisen in the atmosphere, decided to approach her mother. 

Mom, maybe we should sit down to eat before the plates get cold, - she suggested, changing the subject of the conversation, to which Alma agreed, and with a wave of her hand, she guided the guests to the empty seats. 

Amelia and Ana approached the indicated seats, sitting together. Amelia pulled out Ana's chair, helping her to sit properly, and once she did, she pulled out her own. Just as she was about to sit down, she noticed her chair moving slightly backward, causing her to stumble and sit down abruptly. 

She quickly looked at the chair next to her and noticed Camilo, discreetly laughing at the stumble she had just taken with her chair, to which she responded with the "friendliest" smile she could muster at that moment. 

But this time she didn't manage to intimidate him as she intended; on the contrary, Dolores joined in his laughter, observing the little scene from her seat next to her brother. 

Amelia decided not to give it any more importance, moved closer to the table, and started the dinner. 

So, tell me, how are you settling in? - Doña Alma asked, overlooking the little scene. - Do you need help with anything? - she asked, this time trying to create some conversation. 

Everything is going well, to be honest,- Amelia said sincerely, thinking of any problems that may have arisen for which they might need help.- I'll have to look into window locks, but nothing major,- she added, not giving it much importance but mentally noting it on a to-do list; she wasn't going to risk anyone being able to enter that way again. 

Are there problems with the windows? - Alma asked, concerned. When they supervised the construction of that house, everything seemed perfect. 

Not with the windows,- Amelia quickly assured, seeing Alma's worried expression.- It's just precautionary,- Amelia added.- This morning, a little 'critter' got in through the window when I swore they were closed,- she commented with a forced smile and a small laugh.- And it turned out to be more annoying than expected. The locks are to prevent it from happening again, - she said, taking a sip of water and seeing Alma nod in agreement. 

Meanwhile, Camilo was choking on his drink as he realized Amelia was talking about him. 

While holding back her laughter, Dolores gave him small taps on his back; she knew exactly what had happened that morning. - Are you okay, Camilo? - she whispered. 

To which Camilo nodded as he wiped his mouth with his fist, regaining his composure. 

And how did you find Encanto? - curious Mirabel asked, although they weren't the first visitors to Encanto since the mountain rift opened, nor did they receive visitors daily. 

Amelia turned her head towards Mirabel, who was sitting on the other side of Ana, and explained,- We heard from someone about the supposed existence of a small town nestled among the mountains that were safe and magical,- she paused and added with humor,- I never would have thought the latter part was literal,- eliciting laughter from everyone in the dining room. 

And how did you decide to travel at such a young age? - Bruno asked with curiosity in his gaze. All those who had arrived at Encanto so far had been adults or at least accompanied by an adult. 

True, - Pepa chimed in from her seat. - It's rare to see you two here alone. Aren't your parents worried? - Pepa asked, putting herself in their parents' shoes. She wouldn't let her children travel alone at such a young age; the world was dangerous. 

We just... did, - Amelia said, staying still in her seat, feeling somewhat uncomfortable with the questions, but still smiling in a vague attempt to end the topic. 

Although they'll come too, - Ana suddenly spoke up, causing the dining room to fall silent for a few seconds, only for another barrage of questions to follow due to such a revelation. 

You didn't tell us your family was coming too, - Alma said to Amelia, who was starting to look visibly tense, but it seemed everyone decided to ignore that fact as soon as she tried to redirect the conversation, another question could be heard being thrown into the air. 

Are there many in your family? - Julieta asked with curiosity. How could they forget to mention that more people were coming? 

Not... many, - Amelia practically whispered, lowering her head in the process. That question had hit her like a low blow. 

However, once again it seemed to be ignored as Ana exclaimed, - Yes! - excitedly, raising her voice and stopping eating. - There are... 15 of us, - she said, counting on her fingers and explaining, - Between her parents, my parents, and the cousins...- 

You should have told us they were coming too; your house is too small for so many people, - Alma interrupted, worried and thinking about what they could do to fix it. 

But it had been a while since Amelia had stopped listening; the conversation that was still ongoing had just become an annoying whisper, which increased in volume every minute. 

It's not that small; we can all sleep together; the rooms are big, - Ana countered, turning to Amelia. -Right, Ima? - 

She was still, but also moving. She tried to stop the movement by putting her hands on her legs, but they didn't stop. They moved—her legs? her arms? both? She didn't know; everything was very blurry. 

Amelia, are you okay? - Dolores asked, concerned, looking at Amelia. - Your heart is beating very fast...- 

Wasn't it hot in there? She couldn't breathe; her head hurt; the voices wouldn't stop. 

Frightened by what Dolores had said, Ana grabbed Amelia's arm. - Ima, what's wrong? - she asked, raising her voice. 

What was that? The voices, again, not again, please. 

Hey, you're scaring the girl, - Camilo said without looking at her, but not hearing a response, he turned his head, finding Amelia trembling more and more, frightening him. -You're shaking...- 

I'm sorry, I'm sorry, please stop... 

Camilo's words caught everyone's attention, directing the gaze of the whole table onto Amelia, who even had a lost look in her eyes. Dolores and Ana tried to bring Amelia back to reality by shaking her and calling her name, one more scared than the other, causing her tremors to only increase and squeeze her hands in her lap. 

It's my fault, I'm sorry, STOP, PLEASE... 

At some point, the entire table tried to get Amelia's attention somehow, anyway. 

I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY. 

PLEASE. 

QUIET! - Amelia exploded in a shout as she covered her ears, a couple of tears escaping her eyes, but managing to find some silence in her mind. 

Silence. 

Amelia slumped back in her chair, feeling calm, but that calmness vanished once she opened her eyes. 

The entire dining room was silent, staring at her. 

Amelia turned her face towards some whimpers that started to resonate throughout the dining room. It was Ana, who began to tremble in fear and after a few seconds burst into tears. 

Amelia snapped back into reality. 

No, no, no, no, - Amelia said repeatedly as she abruptly stood up from her seat and took Ana in her arms. - I'm sorry, Ana, Anita, please don't cry, - Amelia continued to say, worried as she held Ana and tried to wipe the tears from her face. 

Ana turned her face away; she didn't want her to touch her. She wasn't her cousin; she would never shout at her. 

Amelia hurt and on the verge of tears herself, turned her face away and started to make her way towards the door with Ana in her arms; nothing else mattered now. 

Mirabel quickly got up from her chair and tried to follow them—this action being stopped by Amelia's suddenly stoic face. 

I'm fine, everything's fine, - she assured with a voice that, like her eyes, showed no trace of emotion. She turned her head back towards the door and walked out with firm steps, saying, - I apologize for all this; I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening. - 

With the dining room silent, each of Amelia's steps and the creaking of the door closing could be heard, and even a thunder resonated through that silent hall. 

But only one person noticed that a plate of food was intact and starting to get cold. 

[606xx]

A Tale Of Dos Oruguitas CH 3: Through My Window

Later that same day, in the house that the Madrigal family had given to Amelia and Ana, after some quick explanations about the magic of the Encanto that had not at all left new doubts and questions installed in their heads, the whisper of cleaning and the shadow of growing curiosity took hold of the atmosphere. 

Ana, who was helping to dust, turned to her cousin with excitement and bright eyes and asked, - Could I also have one of those powers if we ask the candle? 

Amelia, not setting aside her task of sweeping the floor, replied skeptically, - I don't think so. I don't even believe they have powers. There must be some trick behind it, - prompting Ana to counter her comment by arguing that both of them had witnessed the magic of that family in action. 

A bouquet, one that one of the members of that family had created out of nowhere now lay on one of the kitchen furniture pieces. 

Amelia sighed as she set the broom aside, maintained by her skepticism told Ana again that what they had seen was hard to believe, that it only happened in stories— you know, Ana, in the ones I used to read to you before bedtime— darkening the little one's demeanor. 

The memory of those times made her long for what she had once experienced, the fun of those days— I remember... it was fun— the little one whispered, unable to lift her head from the ground. 

Amelia, seeing what she had caused, tried to approach her, clarify what she had said, and try to alleviate the sadness on her face. However, all those attempts were left in the past upon hearing the creaking of the floor from the hallway. 

The sound startled both of them; instinctively, Amelia placed Ana behind her and slowly took the broom she had previously set aside. 

With a hand gesture, she signaled Ana to keep silent, and with all the courage she could muster, Amelia ventured into the interior of the house toward where she had heard the floor creak. 

Her steps were slow, silent, trying not to alert whatever had ventured into their home. 

With extreme caution, she approached the door of one of the rooms; behind it, movement, footsteps, could be heard. 

Amelia gripped the broom tightly, prepared to use it as a weapon if necessary, and with her other hand tried to reach for the doorknob. 

But the door opened before she could do so, revealing a shadow behind it. 

Without even thinking, Amelia used the broom to repeatedly strike the intruder. 

Amidst screams and complaints from the intruder, Amelia could see his face, a face full of freckles covered by the arms of the person trying to shield themselves from the blows Amelia kept sending— GET OUT OF HERE!— Amelia shouted, trying to drive him away, but to her surprise, that individual managed to stop the broom halfway through one of the strikes. 

Realizing that she couldn't continue moving the broom and thus continue hitting him, Amelia abruptly stopped, her breath uneven. 

The freckled boy, whom Amelia could now see better, looked at her seriously, perhaps a little annoyed even. 

In one swift motion, Amelia snatched the broom from the boy's hand and took a step back, a move mimicked by the boy who was also staring at her. 

In the background, the sound of small footsteps approaching put both of them on alert, one more scared than the other knowing to whom those steps belonged. 

Ana, alarmed by the screams she had heard moments ago, quickly approached her cousin and slowly turned her head upon noticing a second person with them. 

The boy, who sighed in relief upon seeing that it was only a little girl, tried to approach her while waving his hand in greeting. 

However, he was quickly intercepted by Amelia, who stood in front of Ana again— Don't get close to her...— she said threateningly while looking at him seriously; one of her hands covered Ana, who peeked from behind Amelia, curious about who the boy was, while the other hand held the broom tightly, ready in case she had to use it again. 

The boy looked surprised by her reaction and with a final sigh extended his hand in front of Amelia— I'm Camilo, Camilo Madrigal— he introduced himself, and upon seeing that his hand was not shaken, an idea crossed his mind; he withdrew his hand and made a small bow— and it's supposed to be nice to meet each other— he finished somewhat mockingly, causing Amelia to scrunch her nose. 

Ana, who smiled at what Camilo said, emerged from behind her cousin, who looked surprised— Do you also have powers?!— she asked excitedly upon recognizing the Madrigal surname. 

In a quick movement, Camilo transformed into Ana and tried to approach the little girl, but was stopped by Amelia, who once again stood in front of the real Ana— Madrigal? We didn't see you this morning— she said, recalling who was there that day when she talked to Alma, and Camilo's face didn't appear in that memory. 

Camilo, still transformed into Ana, placed a hand on his hip and looked at her with a mischievous smile— Because I have more important things to do— he began, and in a second, he was back to the same freckled boy as before— Or do you think I just sit on a bench waiting for someone to need me?— he said, raising an eyebrow and maintaining his previous posture. 

Amelia bit her lip and furrowed her brows in response as she scrutinized him; she still had more questions than answers. 

Seeing her, Camilo just sighed— When I arrived at Casita, they told me there were new people in town— he said, gesturing with his hands to accompany the explanation— and I came to help you settle in and introduce myself properly— he finished, smiling at her, trying to get a response. 

On the contrary, Amelia, who listened attentively, just adjusted her glasses, maintaining her serious expression— We don't need your help— she said as she approached Camilo and tried to push him out of the house. 

Camilo, who didn't expect that reaction, put both of his hands in front of him and stopped Amelia in her tracks— Relax, relax— he said first, achieving the opposite effect, however, without losing momentum, Camilo continued— I also came to deliver a message...—  

Amelia looked at him and sighed; she was wasting her time. She leaned the broom against the wall and crossed her arms. With a nod of her head, she indicated to Camilo that she was waiting for that "message." 

Meanwhile, she took the opportunity to keep staring at Amelia, copying her posture and observing with an amused smile how, with the passing of time and silence, she was losing her patience more and more rapidly. 

And unable to hold it any longer, Camilo burst into laughter, joined by Ana, who was also watching everything amused, and a furious and blushing Amelia, who once again went for the broom— You're invited by my grandmother to dinner with us, today, at Casita— Camilo said before Amelia could grab the broom, wiping away an imaginary tear— Do you need me to guide you? 

Amelia, who once again had the broom in her hands, responded with a grimace, -No thanks...- and squeezed the broom tightly, furious at the mockery. 

It's the house on the hill, - says Ana, feeling a bit ignored throughout the conversation. 

Camilo looks at Ana again and, disregarding that Amelia is in between, approaches Ana and gives her a couple of pats on the head. - Very good, - he says smiling, then returns his gaze to Amelia and tries to bid farewell. 

But Amelia stops him in his attempt to leave and asks him something that had been on her mind since the beginning of the conversation, - How did you get in? - 

Camilo looks back at her and smiles, instantly explaining,- Simple, you had the window open,- and with a hand gesture continues,- You're quite careless for how hard you hit; you should be careful with that, you wouldn't want to hit someone like my grandmother or yourself,- he advises, but then laughs imagining it,- Although that would be funny to see,- he says laughing out loud; his grandmother would be furious if she were hit with a broom. 

Amelia, already irritated, becomes even more angry upon hearing that not only did Camilo enter her house through the window, but he was also laughing at her. 

Seeing her angrier than before, Camilo puts a hand on her shoulder and says, - Relax or you'll age prematurely. - Then he looks at her and smiles mischievously, jokingly adding, - I think I can already see your gray hairs...- as he moves one of his hands towards Amelia's hair. 

Amelia, red with anger, pushes his hand away from her shoulder and pushes him back to where he came from, shouting, - Get out of here!

_

Amelia approaches the window and slams it shut with a sigh. When she turns around, she sees Ana giggling softly. 

I like him, - says Ana with a hand over her mouth, trying to stifle her laughter. - Are we going to the dinner? - 

Amelia approaches Ana and gives her a couple of pats on the head.- I don´t,- she says while shaking her head comically, causing more laughter from her little cousin.- As for dinner, we will go, but only if you finish tidying your room before it's time to leave,- she said as the only condition even if she knew they were going anyway, they owed them after being given the house. 

Ana runs off to her room with a smile. - It's a deal! - she shouts in response. 

Amelia watches Ana run down the hallway to her room with a smile; lately, it was strange to see her so happy. She slowly follows her, saying, - Come on, let me help you, - and leaves her room, closing the door behind her. 

On the other side of the window, Camilo is seen once again managing to open the window a little and peering out, laughing. 

[606xx]

A Tale of Dos Oruguitas CH.2 A new start

It is chapter two according to Ao3 but in reality it is chapter 1, the previous one was the prologue.

The sun was shining over Encanto, enveloping the landscape with warmth and heralding the beginning of a new day. The routine bustle of the streets accompanied it, surprising the occasional traveler who had decided to venture into this town. 

It's huge! - exclaimed a dark-skinned girl with caramel eyes. 

Beside her, the teenager accompanying her nodded. - It seems they didn't deceive us. There IS a town nestled within the mountains, - she murmured, scanning the surroundings. 

Look, look! - the little girl interrupted, pointing to a small square where two young people were dancing. -People are dancing! It looks fun, - she added with a jump of joy. 

The young woman smiled at her little cousin's innocence. -It looks like a quiet and safe place, - she reflected, still scanning for possible dangers. -I think it will be a good place to settle. - 

Should we wait for the others here? - the girl asked with bubbly excitement at the prospect. 

The teenager nodded, though a hint of sadness could be seen in her eyes. -Yes, - she replied, looking away. 

An awkward silence settled between them until it was interrupted by a sturdy man crossing their path. 

The teenager stopped the man in his tracks and asked, - Excuse me, are you from around here? - as she adjusted the sleeves of her shirt to look more presentable. 

The man paused, examining them briefly. -Ah, outsiders, - he muttered before attempting to continue on his way. 

We'll pay to settle in! - insisted the young woman, determined to find a home for them, once again halting the man's progress. -We're looking for a place to settle down. We promise to pay to settle in.- 

The man looked at her, surprised by the young woman's determination. - No... no? I mean, I don't know if there are any houses available. You should go see the Madrigals, - he suggested, pointing toward a colorful house on top of a hill. -They can help you. - 

Before leaving, the young woman in the white shirt noticed something strange. - Don't you use money here? - she asked the man, who looked at her as if she had spoken in another language. 

Money? - The man frowned, intrigued by the question, but quickly shook his head and indicated again, - Go see the Madrigals, - before disappearing into the crowd. 

To the Madrigals! - exclaimed the excited girl, as if it were the start of a new adventure, eliciting a smile from her cousin. 

Together they headed toward the colorful house on the hill, where before they could even knock on the door, they were greeted by an elderly woman wearing a dark red dress. 

Hello, we've been expecting you, - the old woman greeted them, leading them inside the house to the dining room where several people inside stared at them. 

The two outsiders stood at the entrance, curiously observing the residents. - I'm Amelia, and this is Ana, - the teenager introduced themself, receiving friendly smiles from those present. 

The elderly woman introduced herself as Alma and then introduced the others present. Once the introductions were done, Alma continued, - We've heard that you're looking to settle in Encanto, and we think that's wonderful, but we need to check a few things first. - 

Before she could continue, Amelia added, leaning on the table,- If it's about money, don't worry, I have something saved,- placing her hand on her chest she continued,- If it's not enough, I'll work for whatever is needed,- she seemed desperate to find a place to settle down, which Alma smiled understandingly. 

That's one of the things we needed to talk about. Here in Encanto, we don't use money- Alma said, which surprised her guests. She continued to explain, -We help each other as a community; everyone works in whatever way they can and know. - 

Amelia, both puzzled and amazed by this statement, asked, -So, food, any kind of object, they're just given to you? - looking at everyone present for an answer. 

A curly-haired girl named Dolores, whom they had been introduced to earlier, replied, - Not exactly, - her whispery tone affirmed, - it's like a long-term exchange; you ask for something, and it's given to you in exchange for your commitment to helping when needed. - 

What would you be willing to help with? - Alma asked Amelia as the others wondered about money. 

I'm fine with some heavy work, but I'd prefer whatever I work on to be related to painting,- Amelia commented, not wanting to close herself off to any job opportunities, she couldn't.- I used to be a painter, so I can paint anything from paintings to buildings,- she added, while little Ana mentioned that she knew how to sew and could also help, but was ignored by the adults present. 

Alma, delighted to have someone who could finally help them paint the new houses, added, -Wonderful, - as she clasped her hands together and looked back at Amelia and Ana, saying, -As for the house, I suppose it will be two bedrooms, right? I think we have one with those features, - ending by looking at a girl with round green glasses, waiting for confirmation of what she had said. 

The girl, named Mirabel, nodded and commented that they had just finished a house recently and that it was ready for Amelia and her little cousin to move in. Before she could say anything else, she was interrupted by Dolores. -You said you paint pictures, right? Could you paint portraits? - the young woman asked hopefully while being questioned by her mother, a redhead standing beside her. 

Amelia nodded in confirmation to Dolores' question; it wouldn't be the first portrait she had painted. Before Alma, who was already saying they would use the portrait as payment for the house, could say anything else, Amelia interrupted her. 

One moment, - Amelia stopped Alma's monologue in its tracks. -How did you know we were here? - Amelia asked, looking seriously at those present while tapping the table with the index finger of one of her hands. -You said you were expecting us, - Amelia continued, this time addressing Alma. -And it seems like you knew everything we needed, - she added, seeking an explanation because everything seemed very suspicious to her. 

Alma changed her previous cheerful demeanor to a more serious one; she knew this conversation was going to happen, so she began calmly, -There's something I need you to know before you settle in Encanto, only to be interrupted by Mirabel, who, excitedly, hit the table with both of her hands and exclaimed,  

Do you believe in magic?! 

[606xx]

The wind god Aeolus

[606xx]

The waiter suggested to Bruno to get the Blue Lagoon cocktail, the most touristy and ridiculous drink they had to make Bruno look goofy. Jokes on them. Elena is into it and Bruno thinks the drink is delicious as hell.

[606xx]

My Encanto OC, Amelia, reimagined as Penelope in The Challenge.

I absolutely loved the latest saga of Epic: The Musical, and I couldn't resist making a drawing inspired by it!

[606xx]

they are so cute

Amelia and her two very different dads lol

[606xx]

A redraw of a redraw of one of my favorite drawings for the Streetrat Bruno AU . For those who don’t know, Travis (the guy Núria is with in the picture) is a guy involved in the Delgado brand that Núria’s mom is trying to set her up with. He’s your typical two faced social ladder climber and is only interested in the prestige that comes with associating with the Delgado brand. Núria knows this but feels trapped by expectations of being the future face of her parents’s brand and some of Travis’s manipulation (which is why she looks so miserable here). The idea is they are at a rich people party where there are press and cameras, but she’d rather be anywhere else (perhaps ideally with a certain scrunkly street vendor named Bruno?). Anyway I hope you all enjoyed and hate Travis as much as I do.

[606xx]

I still don´t know if i use that thing correctly, I guess i will have to wait to mess up something to find it out

One thing they don’t tell you about sewing is that it is actually ironing

[606xx]

I was in class i didn´t need to cry!

they probably need to talk

[606xx]

I finally finished it, what I've put in the story section is very summarized if you want to know a little more I'll leave you here the fic still under production that tells its story (I should stop procrastinating and finish writing it someday)

Fic: A Tale of dos Oruguitas

(posting it again because i don´t know how the communities section work exactly)

[606xx]

Tablet Kids

Comic based on a short Drabble made by my friend @RinnySega

View my collection of Encanto comics

Start the story from the beginning

[606xx]

Yaaaay I finally finished this 😭💚✨️ If you would like more information regarding María's time as a young adult and her relationship with Bruno back then def check out my lil fanfic Love & Roscónes ❤️ on ao3!