Hello everyone, this is the first Encanto/How to Train Your Dragons crossover I'm writing. I was inspired by 'HotTatooty' from Archive of Our Own who wrote their masterpiece magnum opus, The Dragon and the Butterfly. To be honest, I've been thinking of writing something like this for a while, but never got the motivation until recently. Hiccup and Mirabel are so perfect since they are mirror images of each other.
Also, I threw around an idea of what would happen if Mirabel befriended the Light Fury. The dragon was so gorgeous and baby Mirabel is so cute, that I just had to create a friendship between them.
Disclaimer: I do not own Encanto or How to Train Your Dragon
Mirabel ran through the woods with tears streaming down her face. Today was her fifth birthday, a day that should be joyous and wonderful. She was so excited to receive her magical gift and join her magical family in serving their community. But the moment her little fingers touched the doorknob, her door disappeared before her eyes, shocking everyone, especially her Abuela Alma who had a look of fear and disappointment in her gaze. Afterwards, she ran back to the nursery and locked the door, crying herself into her bed and drowning out her concerned mother and father. She cried herself to sleep but woke up not long after to hear her family talking over each other wondering what happened to her gift. She did not want to step out of her room, but she didn't want to face her disappointed family either. Tearfully, she asked Casita to help her leave through the window. Though reluctant, the magical house granted the girl's request and safely let her escape her room.
Her vision was fogged up from her tears, she didn't know where she was going, but she didn't care. She was not ready to face the judgmental gaze of her family. She let out a small scream when she found herself rolling down a hill into a small clearing. Her party dress was tattered and dirty, but she didn't care since her birthday was ruined anyway. She laid there face down as she continued to cry, feeling nothing but utter disappointment in herself for not receiving her magical gift.
She was so busy weeping that she didn't notice light blue cat-like eyes staring at her from their hiding spot behind the rock concealing the passage to her domain. When they heard a disturbance just outside of their burrow, she went to check it out, keeping their defenses up in case the intruder meant any harm. But what they saw wasn't a predator, yes it was human, and humans mean trouble. But this was a hatchling like herself, barely old enough to be considered a threat, and was lying face down making pitiful noises as though in pain.
Curiosity got the better of the creature as she slowly peeled herself away from her hiding spot, her white scales tinted with blue and pink shimmered in the moonlight as she approached the hatchling. Upon closer inspection, she noticed how fluffy and curly the girl's head was despite all the twigs and leaves stuck within. The second thing she notices was the whitish-pink attire she was wearing. It definitely didn't look like something used for battle or camouflage. She also noticed how the fabric shimmered under the feint glow of the moon. She glanced at her own scales and saw the similarities. Quietly, she pawed closer to the crying child and gently nudged her.
Mirabel stopped crying for a moment to pick her head up, thinking it was a dog who found her until she was nose to snout with a strange creature. Releasing a scream that startled the white creature, both scrambled backwards away from each other in fright. The little girl's heart was racing at the sight of what crouched before her, it's white bat-like wings shielded its body as though to hide from Mirabel. It wasn't large, around the size of a full-grown dog by her estimate. She noticed its shape and scales and immediately thought, 'Magic lizard?'
Mirabel slowly crawled closer, her big brown eyes filled with curiosity and wonder at the beautiful creature who peeked at her with enchanting blue eyes. She crouched on her hands and knees, pulling her curly brown hair over her eyes, mimicking its behavior.
The white creature slowly unshielded herself when she noticed the hatchling's nonthreatening movements and crawled close again. She sniffed the human hatchling's fluffy hair, noting how it smelled unique, like fruits and flowers.
Mirabel giggled as it played with her hair. Its behavior reminded her of a cat, a giant white scaly cat. She flopped onto her back and stared at it upside down as it continued to inspect her curiously. While it was busy sniffing at her party dress, her little hand reached up and scratched under its chin.
The creature was at first startled by the contact but shivered in delight at how nice it felt on that spot. She fell to her side in bliss as Mirabel sat up and continued to give it affectionate scratches, the way it purred was just like a cat, making the sweet girl giggle.
"You're very beautiful." Mirabel complimented as the creature leaned into her touches. The little girl giggled as it nuzzled her belly before she hugged it. She sighed happily into the smooth scales.
"Do you have a name?" Mirabel asked as she leaned back. The creature did the same and shook herself like a dog. It tilted its head to the side in question.
The little girl pointed at herself. "My name's Mirabel." She introduced herself as the creature crooned in greeting. She held her chin as she assessed the beautiful creature before looking up at the full moon above them. It copied her movements and looked up at the large glowing rock in the sky. This night was the only time of the month where they can appreciate its splendor.
Mirabel gasped as an idea came to her. "I know, I'll call you Luna." The creature tilted its head in question at the strange name. "It means 'moon'. Because you shine beautifully like the moon. So, from now on, you're Luna." At the explanation and compliment, 'Luna' bounced around Mirabel in happiness, making the girl giggle at its enthusiasm before it nuzzled her, wrapping its body around her.
Mirabel cuddled up to her new friend. "Luna." She said as she closed her eyes, feeling happy for the first time since the party's disaster.
Luna watched the strange, yet sweet girl falls asleep on her. This child was not like the other vicious humans, it was small, and innocent like her. She knew the child came from the valley where the humans' nest, and she feared that if the parents are looking for Mirabel, they'll find Luna as well. Gently, she eased her head under Mirabel's unconscious body and slowly shifted her onto the wide expanse of her back. Mirabel slumbered on as Luna moved through the foliage, being careful not to wake her up.
Luna followed her nose towards the smell of humans, normally she'd stay as far away from the nest as possible, but the little hatchling on her back needs to return to her parents. When she found the colorful human nest at the edge of the valley, she stayed out of sight and slowly deposited her charge at the edge of the forest. Mirabel moaned as she curled into herself.
Luna was reluctant to leave her human, but this is for the best. At least for now. Quickly, she bounded back into the forest when she heard a couple run out of the house shouting their daughter's name. Luna stayed hidden as she watched the blue clad humans crouch down to their hatchling and inspect the girl for injuries. The father picked her up and held her close as they returned to the house that seemed to have a life of its own.
Luna watched for a few more moments before slinking back to her own nest.
Luna didn't think she'd see Mirabel again, but when she did, the little girl was singing and calling her name. When she finally showed herself, Mirabel was overjoyed and gave her a hug. Luna wasn't sure what to describe what she felt when Mirabel held her, but she never wanted to let this sweet girl go.
Days turned to weeks, weeks became months, and before either of them realized it, ten years have passed. Whenever Mirabel had spare time, which was quite often, she'd see her white scaly friend in the forest and hide in Luna's cavern. The spectacled girl would bring food from her mother's kitchen and spend long afternoons with Luna, telling stories about her family and playing hide and seek, which surprisingly was hard for Mirabel thanks to Luna's cloaking ability. But they still had fun.
As Mirabel got older, Luna began to notice how depressed the human looked. This wasn't right, her Mirabel is supposed to be bubbly and happy, a bringer of joy. One day, Mirabel couldn't hold it in, she ran into her cavern and just knelt in front of a spring lake illuminated by the sun shining through the wide skylight of Luna's home, creating beautiful patterns on the cavern walls.
Luna crooned sadly as she watched her girl cry in front of the spring. She was bigger, so it was easy for her to protect the girl from danger as she surrounded Mirabel with her long form. Luna nudged her gently, shimmering brown eyes met concerned blue. Luna used her long tail and pull her closer into her version of a hug. Mirabel leaned into her friend's neck as she cried.
"I'm tired of this." Mirabel gasped out through tears, "I just-I just want to prove my worth to the family, to the community." Mirabel pulled her glasses off to wipe away her tears of frustration. "I'm not strong like Luisa or perfect like Isabela. I can't heal and I can't make hurricanes or rainbows. No matter what I try, I'm just not good enough. Because the Candle doesn't think I'm special enough to receive a gift."
Luna learned long ago that Mirabel's nest mates, La Familia Madrigal, have magical gifts that help the community prosper. But unfortunately, Mirabel never received her gift. Thus, never received the same reverence as her clan.
Luna nuzzled her as a way to console the downtrodden girl. 'You're special to me.' She crooned, hoping Mirabel could understand that gesture even if she could not hear what she said.
Mirabel sniffled as she looked into her friend's eyes, the beautiful blue moon that comforted her from the moment they met. She breathed in and out as she released the last of her tears. "It's getting harder to pretend I'm fine. Mom and Dad try to help me, but it's not working anymore. It just feels like pity these days." She sighed dejectedly then informed Luna, "Antonio's birthday is coming up in a month. He'll have his gift ceremony. First one since...mine." She smiled fondly at the thought of her little roommate, cousin, and best friend. "No doubt he'll have an amazing gift. When he opens that door, he'll have his own little world, and I'll..." Her smile turned sad, "...be alone in the nursery. Again." She added as she touched the water, creating ripples as she drew random patterns on the surface.
Luna knew what being alone felt like, but she never felt lonely when she befriended Mirabel. This kinship between them was born from isolation. Luna being the only strange creature in the Encanto mountains, and Mirabel being the only child without a magical gift. It makes sense that they were perfect together.
The skylight became shaded as clouds blocked the sun. Struck with an idea, Luna walked away from Mirabel to retrieve an item she knew would cheer her up. After a moment, she was carrying something in her mouth before she dropped it beside Mirabel.
Mirabel picked up the item she had special made for her friend, a saddle. It was made from an old worn horse's saddle his owner wanted to toss out, but Mirabel wanted it. After many adjustments, it was able to fit Luna. Mirabel was silent as a smile made its way back to her face before she came to her friend's side and fastened the saddle. Once it was secured, Mirabel mounted up and held the reins. Wings spread out around her, before she urged, "Volar!" Then they launched towards the skylight and flew through the clouds.
Mirabel felt exhilaration the higher they went; wind whipped her curly hair around her and made her blue butterfly embroidered skirt flap behind her like a second set of wings. They broke through the clouds and glided under the blue sky. The sunlight hit her skin as she breathed in the fresh air. A peaceful smile adorned her face as they flew as one. Up here, she felt free, she didn't have to worry about weighing anyone down. High above the clouds, she wasn't Mirabel the Gift-less Madrigal. She was happy.
Mirabel and Luna could only fly together on cloudy days, which was rare given their climate, or unless Tia Pepa was in a bad mood. "Bucear!" Mirabel braced herself as she steered Luna in a downward spiral, cheering and hooting at the tickle belly she is experiencing. They wove through the mountains, dodging and twirling between rocks and forests until they settled on top of one of the highest peaks overlooking the Encanto.
Mirabel dismounted and reclined herself into Luna's back as they watched the peaceful village down below. Everyone went about their daily business, completely unbothered by the outside world. She sighed, enjoying the view from up here, she didn't believe anyone else could have the opportunity to see their home like this. These mountains were created from the Miracle on the day Abuelo Pedro sacrificed his life to save everyone, giving them a safe haven from the cruelty of the world beyond.
Mirabel sighed again as an idea nagged her mind, one that has bothered her for weeks now. "Hey, Luna?" At her friend's warble, Mirabel continued, "I've been thinking a lot lately, and it's going to sound crazy. But do you want to leave Encanto?"
Luna gave her a confused and questioning stare at her suggestion. "Like I said, it's crazy." Mirabel let out a breath, "I just-I don't think I can take being seen as a gift-less burden for much longer." She stated as she closed her eyes to push down her pain. "But more than that, I want to find others like you."
Mirabel stood up as Luna shot up to her feet at what she just said, at her questioning chirps and warbles, Mirabel explained, "Think about it for a moment, you're the only one in the Encanto mountains, but that doesn't mean you have to be the last one. I mean, have you ever wondered that maybe...they're still out there?"
Luna looked down for a moment then turned her blue gaze towards the outside world beyond the fog and horizon, just barely making out that bit of ocean. She did wonder. But flying away would mean leaving her human. Despite their difference in species, she considers Mirabel her sister, the only family she has here. A sentiment mutually shared between them. Luna turned to Mirabel and nodded, hope and longing clear within her eyes.
Then Luna turned to the town below, mainly at the large colorful house just outside of the village. Mirabel followed her gaze and had a melancholy smile. "They'll be fine without me. They hardly ever notice I'm gone anyway." She stated with sadness and acceptance. "Besides, it's better this way. They'll be free of me."
Luna nudged her, making her smile as she wrapped her arms around her friend and nuzzle her forehead against the lizard's. Luna crooned comfortingly and Mirabel giggled. They both looked at the horizon beyond the mountains, their hopes and intentions clear as day.
"One month." Mirabel said making Luna turn to her, "That's all the time we need to prepare for our journey." Mirabel stated as she pulled out a notebook from her embroidered bag and started writing down a list of items they need before they leave.
As the sun was starting to set, they flew back to Luna's cavern where she unsaddled the creature. Mirabel stroked her friends soft yet strong scales. "After Antonio receives his gift, then we'll leave." Mirabel promised before she climbed up the rock staircase towards the secret entrance and made her way back to her home.
The next day, Mirabel went about her usual routine within the house, making sure she's not noticed. Which was hardly an effort. The ones who keep a watchful eye on her though were her parents, Julieta and Augustin. But Mirabel, with her unbridled optimism assured them she's fine. She went into town to gather some extra fabric for warm clothes she'll most likely need since weather outside of Encanto is just as unpredictable as Pepa. She also made sure to buy saddle bags and carry-ons with compartments to store her mother's food she's been sneaking out.
One month she prepared, one month she savored with each of her family members. She wanted the last moments she spent with them to be meaningful since she didn't know if she'll ever see them again. Finally, Antonio's birthday came, the moment where he receives his magical gift. This will also her last day with her family. She woke up that morning feeling extremely nervous. A part of her didn't want to leave, but the pain of not belonging enforced her decision to escape.
Mirabel gripped the sink after washing her face, she stared at herself in the mirror, noting the bags under her eyes. She feared and anticipated this day for a month. Over and over again she repeated the words in her head, 'They'll be fine without me.' She splashed more water on her face to wake herself up and erase the tears that wanted to escape her. After taking several breaths, she put on a happy face and went about her morning ritual of setting up the table and helping prepare breakfast for the final time.
The family went into town to gather the stuff for Antonio's gift ceremony. They came home where Mirabel did, or at least tried to do her part in decorating for the party. After some "sisterly advice" from Isabela, kind reassuring words from her parents, and a thinly veiled cold interaction with her Abuela, she was under the bed with her cousin Antonio. She could tell he was hesitant about tonight, and her heart warmed when he wished she could have a door. Her heart also broke at the thought of leaving her sweet little cousin who saw her as an older sister. He was the best roommate she could have, but this would be the last time they'd sleep in the nursery. After tonight, he won't need her anymore. He'll have an amazing gift, and best of all, he won't end up like her. That was enough to make her happy. When it was time for them to go, she hugged him one last time, hiding her own sadness with a laugh before they made their way downstairs.
Mirabel escorted Antonio to his parents and siblings who gave him their congratulations. Mirabel stood in the background completely unnoticed, something she needs lest she breaks down in front of everyone. But when the curtain went up and Antonio froze, he held his hand out pleadingly, needing Mirabel to help him brave the expectant stares. Unable to refuse his request, she escorted him towards the stairs, focusing on her cousin as she did her best to ignore everyone's gaze. All the while remembering her own disastrous ceremony, the excitement she felt, and the warmth her Abuela gazed at her with when they both held the candle together before she touched that door. After that, her Abuela never gave her that smile or tender gaze anymore.
Mirabel watched as Antonio hesitantly approached his door. Her heart was racing with everyone's. This is it, the moment she dreaded and hoped for all of Antonio's life. The door lit up beautifully before a toucan perched itself on his little arm. Despite his surprise, he understood the bird before more animals joined their house. Antonio opened his door to his own world, a jungle treehouse bedroom. Everyone joined him as a leopard burst through the door and took him on a wild exciting ride around his room. Everyone cheered for him, his parents, his siblings, cousins, and Abuela. Mirabel just stood there and smiled at the sight, her heart breaking little by little as Antonio soaked up the praise happily, no longer seeing her.
Her Abuela gathered everyone for a photo, except her. Mirabel wanted to be with them, to remind them that she is also a Madrigal. But she kept her mouth shut as her smile slowly disappeared. The moment the camera flashed; Mirabel felt her heart completely shatter into pieces. No one bothered to include her, not Antonio, Luisa, or even her parents. She sighed sadly as she slinked away from the crowd unnoticed, choosing to stay on the sideline while they let their powers shine.
'This is fine, it's better this way. Makes leaving easier.' Mirabel thought to herself as her throat closed up, tears wanted to spill, but she did not want to cry. She knew it would ruin the family's perfect night. She stood there throughout the entire party and watched them have fun. She couldn't find it in herself to dance or sing. No one would appreciate her getting in the way and trying to steal Antonio's spotlight.
The celebration went on into late evening. Antonio passed out in his hammock surrounded by his animal friends. All the guests went home while Casita and the Madrigals cleaned up the party. Mirabel was at the kitchen sink washing the dishes. She might as well do one last thing for her mother before she's gone. She took her time, memorizing each plate, tracing their designs with a sad expression. Tears gathered as she sniffed, not noticing her mother enter the kitchen.
"Mirabel?" Julieta's voice caused Mirabel to gasp, almost dropping the plate. She turned to see her mother's concerned face as she watched her daughter put on a fake smile despite the tears swimming in her eyes.
"Hi, Mama. Don't worry, I'm almost done with the dishes." Mirabel said as she placed the plate on the drying rack, trying to keep her voice from cracking, but Julieta could see how tormented her daughter is.
With the tenderness of a true mother, she rested her hand on Mirabel's cheek. Her daughter's smile faltered as their shared brown eyes locked onto each other. "I know today was hard for you. And you've held yourself back for Antonio's sake." She wrapped her arms around Mirabel in a loving embrace, "It's okay to cry now mija."
All the effort she put in to keeping her tears in check evaporated immediately as she returned her mother's hug, holding her tightly as she cried into her shirt, releasing all the sadness and pain she endured while pretending nothing bothered her. Julieta held her youngest baby tightly as she rocked her, running her fingers through Mirabel's bouncy curls. She kissed the top of her head as her baby shook in her arm, wanting to take away the pain.
Mirabel continued to cry, not just from Antonio's night, but because she will miss her mother terribly, and for the guilt of causing this kind woman pain upon her departure. She savored her mother's tender warmth, one of the very few safe havens to shield her from loneliness and insecurities. She always loved her hugs, especially from Julieta.
"Mama...thank you...for everything." She whispered into her mother's chest. But in her heart, she was apologizing and saying farewell.
"Mi Corazon." Julieta pulled away to wipe away the tears from her daughter's eyes. "I'm always here for you when you need me. Never forget that." While her words were supposed to be comforting, it only served to bring Mirabel more pain.
A knock on the frame brought their attention to Augustin who stood in the entrance of the kitchen. His eyes were full of tenderness and affection for his wife and daughter. "Don't forget me too." He said as he walked further into the kitchen to stand beside his wife. "Anything you need to talk about, we'll listen." He placed a supportive hand on Mirabel's shoulders. "You're our special baby girl, remember that."
Mirabel swallowed the lump in her throat as she threw her arms around her father. Though the man was surprised, he didn't complain as he hugged his daughter tightly. Mirabel felt protected in Augustin's arms. They had a much deeper understanding of each other since both don't have any magical gifts.
"I love you both so much." Mirabel's voice was muffled, but her parents heard her clearly.
Augustin and Julieta rubbed her back. "We love you too Miraboo." Augustin responded, using his favorite nickname on her.
"Hey, tomorrow, how about all three of us go out the way we used to when you were little. We can go wherever you want." Augustin offered, hoping a day with her parents would help her get over the gift ceremony.
Mirabel smiled despite the sadness in her brown eyes. "I would love that actually." She truly would.
Julieta stroked her cheek lovingly, "You've worked really hard today amor. We'll finish up here." She offered, knowing how emotionally exhausted their daughter.
Mirabel nodded before she embraced them both at the same time. Her parents enveloped her in their love, letting her know she's not alone. Mirabel smiled at how luck she is to have them. She hugged them tightly, wanting to carry this feeling with her forever. She let them go and stepped back, smiling gratefully at them for everything they've done for her.
"You guys are the best." Mirabel said, as she imprinted their faces into her mind and heart.
"Thank you, Mirabel."
Mirabel went to leave the kitchen but paused at the doorway and turned her head to look at them, "I love you very much."
"We love you too. We'll see you in the morning." Julieta said, bidding Mirabel goodnight.
Mirabel's heart broke again as she turned to head back up to the nursery. Her smile vanished as she walked down the corridors then up the stairs, pausing to get one last look at her late Abuelo's portrait. "Goodnight Abuelo." She whispered before resuming her journey. She slowly passed by the bedroom doors, memorizing their glow, silently saying goodbye to each of them.
When she finally made it back to her room, she removed her dress and neatly folded it on her bed before she pulled on her travel gear. Blue riding breaches, leather boots and a white leather hooded jacket with a blue butterfly embroidered on the back. She tied her short curly hair back to keep it from flying in her face before she opened her bedside drawer and pulled out a folded piece of paper. She sighed sadly then gently placed it on top her dress. Her eyes took in the nursery, her room of fifteen years. She loved and hated this room. Staying here was her shame and punishment for not receiving a gift, but it was also where she had Antonio to herself for five years. Now that Antonio's stuff was already packed in crates to move into his new room. She knew it was time for the next generation to occupy the nursery.
Mirabel picked up her carry on and swung it onto her back before she opened her window touched the balcony and whispered, "Casita, get me down." The sentient house was hesitant, it wasn't ready to see Mirabel go. But it has seen how much the girl suffered in this house no matter how much Casita tried to help her. With sadness and love for this girl, the balcony dropped down and reconfigured itself into a ladder for her to climb down.
Mirabel swung her leg over and carefully traveled down until her boots touched the grass. Her hand rested on the balcony then patted it with affection. "Gracias Casita." She spoke softly to the house before the balcony was pulled back up to how it was before. She took two steps back before she walked towards the foliage. She stopped at the edge and turned back to the window of her nursery to see the panels waving at her sadly. She waved back and whispered, "Adios."
Her trek towards Luna's cavern was silent, her heart was heavy, but her resolve is clear. This is her choice, her promise to Luna as thanks for staying by her side. Upon reaching the clearing, her friend greeted her with affectionate nuzzles. Mirabel saddled her up and fastened her luggage until she mounted up, making sure Luna was comfortable.
"Are you ready?" Mirabel asked, receiving an enthusiastic warble.
"Volar." She urged, leaning forward as Luna spread her wings and flew up into the night sky. Together they circled around the mountains, taking in the view of the lanterns lighting up the streets and windows of the houses. Luna landed on top of the same mountain top from a month ago to rest for a moment as Mirabel took in her home of fifteen years one last time. While it hurt to leave such a beautiful place, there was a sense of liberation and a desire to discover a world out there.
"Goodbye everyone." Mirabel whispered into the air before she urged Luna towards the sea. Together they flew away from Encanto and into the great beyond.
That was the first chapter. To those who cried while reading this, I apologize for that. Though considering I cried while writing emotional scenes, can't say I'm tough. But yeah, Mirabel has left Encanto, can't say when she'll return, but she needs some adventure to discover herself.