#Okay why do you trust her not to attack your hamster then and let them roam free in the same room

[b-rainlet]

Cannot watch 'cute cat videos' on here anymore because they either a. Endanger the cat or B. Endanger a prey animal that is being forced to interact with the cat

[appl3-juice-box]

OKAY OKAY IM GETTING MY FRIEND TO WATCH UNDERVERSE FOR THE FIRST TIME AND SHE DOESNT EVEN KNOW WHAT UNDERTALE IS SO HER OUT OF CONTEXT COMMENTARY IS SO FUCKING AMAZING I HAVE TO DOCUMENT IT AND MY EXPLANATIONS

For context, anything in () will be my explanations

@speak-now-girlies-unite because she said to tag her

is he wearing slippers omg this is amaxing

omg love me a male wife 🤭

soul absorption fancy (Yeah that basically means "haha I stole half of your life source lol, now gimme the other half and die")

i love the name ink so much

DID HE JUST THROW UP IN HIS EXCITEMENT OF TALKING ABOUT SOMETHING???? JUST LIKE ME FRFR (YEAH THATS WHAT HE DOES ITS KINDA QUIRKY)

crying? bb boy let me buy you a hamster to wipe your tears with

cross omg cool name

omg is that the error guy (YEA THATS THE ERROR GUY![I had previously talked about him]) YEAH (HES HOT RIGHT?) YEAH (YEAH)

the white/red soul thing is making me zzzzbrrrrr in interest (Ohohoho, youre gonna love this) that makes me also zzzbrrr in interest

samn that’s kinda sad i wanna write fanfiction about his sad life

oh my god is that a real life skater boy, with a backwards cap am i hallucinating (THATS FRESH HES SO FUCKING COOL)

he has a backwards cap (ITS GOT A LITTLE PROPELLER ON TOP TOO) does it really omg (YEAH) WOO

dark spaghetti thing ?? (which one, the emo?) Yeah I think so *intermission to find what the dark spaghetti is* (THATS NOT THE EMO THATS NIGHTMARE IM CRYING) seems pretty emo to me (trust me there's more)

OH MY GOD THE SUN PERSON >>>> (THE SUN PERSON I CANT) HES EXISTEDIN MY BRAIN FOR FIVE SECONDS I LOVE HIM

HIS NAME IS PAPYRUS??? LIKE THE ANCIENT EGYPTIAN SCROLLS? (THE PAPYRUS FONT AND COMIC SANS THATS WHY SANS MAKES JOKES) OHHHH

ketchup???

OH YMG SO THE SUN PERSONS BACK!!! His name is dream ? (Yes his name is dream) funsies🤭✨ (dream and nightmare) omg that makes sense

also i recognize that you’ve told me about them before right? (yes I have) 🤭

second person pov>

the shot of ink blinking at sans and frisk’s convo>>>>

officially frisk is my daughter

ink makes my brain go so vrrbbbbb (Ink makes my brain want to slaughter him /lh) oh damn what does he do😔 ... ACTUALLY don’t tell me i’ll find out<3

NOT THE FALLEN DOWN STOP💔💔💔 (YEAH FALLEN DOWN IS ORIGINALLY FROM UNDERTALE) YEAH I KNEW THAT I SHOULDVE PREPARED MYSELF SKDNDJ

(have you seen the emo yet?) he sounds kinda like a five year old having a tantrum he looks cool though (the golden tooth boi? Yeah thats him) funnnn

oo getting hyped up

omg fight scene? slay

omg x event - no clue what that is but it sounds cool

more soul absorption

i have mixed feelings on that word because as much as it’s cool it reminds me of the word moist

heart ?

he’s got that swagger that only people who talk in comic sans can have

re e e ed re e e ed

“sleeping is more fun than corrupting timelines” sleeping is more fun than a lot of thng - but i feel like corrupting timelines would be fun

is sans gay😨❓

i feel like i’m reading this wrong

manipulate manwhore mansplain

his special attack- he turns into an anime girl with plot armor - oh no he just pulls a rachel dare funsies

he saved the day with the power of bad puns (And a slipper) And a slipper

(Also who tf were you asking who was gay for who) idk who tf he is but he was like “there was this guy” and that was my first thought sjsnskdnsk😭 (WHICH GUY WHATD HE LOOK LIKE???) IDK EVIL??? (WAS HE THE TALL MOTHER FUCKER WITH WEIRD BLACK STRIPEY EYES THAT MET WITH INK? I NEED TO KNOW BECAUSE HE MIGHT BE GAY) -proceeds to investigate who the supposed gay man is- (I WAS RIGHT IT IS THE TALL MOTHER FUCKER WITH WEIRD BLACK STRIPEY EYES) WHAT DOES THAT MEAN??? (IM A FFUCKING GENIUS WITH GUESSING THIS SHIT) GOOD OR BAD? (no he's not gay, you'll find more about him later)

god he’s a mood

OO THE ERROR GUY

go girl give us nothing

This is just from the first two episodes, be ready for more

[xpacestuff]

Su/gf crossover things part 2

(sorry if these aren't that good!)

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Dipper: So... that glowing pink thing?

Steven: Yeah?

Dipper: Why does that happen exactly?

Steven: Oh, I'm not sure... I guess when I don't feel well? It's like a burst of energy when it happens...when i feel like i need to run away or just...-

Dipper: Oh! Like a flight or fight response!

Steven: What is-

Dipper, taking out the journal: Interesting...

Steven: What's a-

Dipper: mumbles to himself

Steven: ...Nevermind.

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Steven: Hey Mabel! what are you-

Steven: Mabel.

Mabel, putting fake gems on waddles face: Whaaat... he likes it...

Steven: Why didn't you ask me to help you?

Mabel: :D

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Mabel: OH! YOU CAN DO SHAPESHIFTING, RIGHT?

Steven: Oh, yeah, but-

Mabel: Can you turn into anything!? Like a unicorn! Or a hamster! You can do this hamster ball thing, so!

Steven: uuhh haha... I don't really... like shapeshifting... sorry..

Mabel: Aw, why?

Steven: It's just... some things happened when I did...

Mabel: Like what?

Dipper: Mabel, don't bother him! If he doesn't like it then leave him alone.

Mabel: Yeahh... you're right. Sorry Steven!

Steven: Nono, it's okay, don't worry!

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this is something different than the "steven has the same powers as bill so dipper is sus" writing post i made lol (basically this one is just silly)

Dipper, walking around in circles: It's just... what does that star symbolize?

Mabel: What do you mean?

Dipper: The star on his shirt, Mabel! Does it have to do with this gem stuff? Is it related to his powers?

Mabel: Uh...Dipper, why are you questioning something like that?

Dipper: Well, he showed me a picture of himself when he was younger, and he always had this star on his shirt! Why?

Mabel: Maybe he just likes stars? Come on, bro. It's just some shirt design.

Dipper: I don't know...

later

Dipper: Steven... okay, so, this will sound weird but what does that star on your shirt mean?

Steven: Huh?

Dipper, pointing at it: You always have that star on your shirt. Does it have to do with your powers or something? Is it some magical shirt?

Steven: Oooh hahaha! No no, it's just my dads merchandise. Just like that pine tree on your hat, I'm guessing?

Dipper: ...Oh. Well then. rips a page from a notebook

Steven: ...Seriously?

Dipper: Yes, seriously.

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So what if something dangerous happens and steven completely turns pink also starts turns into his buff chad form (haha edgy)

Steven, in that form: Oh, oh no no no... oh no.. shit..

Dipper: Wha-

Mabel: What!?

Steven: Oh god, Mabel and Dipper, d-don't look at me!

Dipper: ...Does that new form... hurt you?

Steven: What? uh.. no.

Steven: I- I didn't want you guys to see me like this!

Dipper: No, no, it's uh, okay!

Mabel: Yeah, we're here! Don't worry!

Steven, slowly getting smaller do his normal form: It's just..

Steven, as his pink glow fades: This just hasn't happened in a while...

later

Mabel: Well, I made you some chocolate milk!

Steven: Thanks, Mabel.

Dipper: So... you better now? You're smaller than when you were well... all pink and glowy

Steven: Yeah, yeah i'm better now. I guess I need to tell this to my therapist though.

Mabel: You better! I don't want to see you hurt :(

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Steven: Hey do guys wanna fly

Dipper: Wh-

Mabel: YES!

Dipper: Um... what do you mean with "fly"?

Steven: I have floating powers. I can just carry you two and well.. fly around

Mabel: Oh my god!!! really!?

Steven: Yeah!

Dipper: How come you're just randomly suggesting this?

Steven: Well, strange things have been happening here in Gravity Falls, so I just wanted to lighten the mood up a little bit.

Dipper: Alright, then

Mabel: YEAHH!!! LETS FLOAT!

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Mabel, Dipper and Steven are basically floating now

Mabel: THIS IS AMAZING!!! You can float and summon a hamster ball! That's like, the best thing EVER!

Steven: hahah, yeah! ...Dipper you alright?

Dipper, absolutely worried that he's going to fall: y.. yes.

Steven: I can drop you off-

Dipper: AH- NO!

Steven: I mean like... slowly help you land on your feet again, yknow?

Dipper: Oh, uh, yes... please..

Steven: Alright!

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Mabel: Tickle attack!

Dipper: Mabel no- hahaha! Stop!

Steven, entering the room: Hey guys

Mabel, staring at him: >:)

Steven: o h n o

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Dipper: Is this your real form? You can shapeshift, after all.

Steven: Yes?

Dipper: HMM

Steven: How could I prove it to you anyways?

Dipper: I don't know-

Steven: Here, a picture of when I was younger. I can assure you that's me, and my 'real' form haha

Dipper: ...Wow you were small

Steven: You're one to talk

Dipper: Hey!

Steven: Haha!

Steven: Oh, by the way, you know that I don't like shapeshifting, right?

Dipper: Yeah... I guess you don't.

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Mabel: Uuughh I'm so bored

Dipper: Yeah, me too.

Steven: Do you guys wanna uh, bake something? maybe?

Mabel: Hmmm... like what

Steven: Oh! Have you heard of cookie cats?

Dipper: Cookie cats?

Steven: Here, let me show you a picture of them shows a picture of it from his phone

Mabel: It looks so cute!

Steven: We can bake this if you guys wanna?

Dipper: Well, we don't have anything else to do.

Mabel and Steven: Yeah!

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steven and dipper are just walking around the woods cause why not

Dipper: Ouch!

Steven: What happened? Are you okay?

Dipper: Yeah, it's just...I just scratched myself on this branch, i didn't even see it.

Steven: Oh, that's no problem! licks his finger

Dipper: uh-

Steven: puts his finger on Dippers wound there!

Dipper, healed: WH- HOW?

Steven: I have healing powers :)

Dipper: You surprise me everyday...

Dipper, whispering: Maybe I should tell Ford... hmm..

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again before they knew steven is half gem

Mabel: I love gems!

Steven: Me too! Even though some tried to kill me, most of them didn't really know what they were doing. Mostly when they were corrupted.

Mabel: H..huh?

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Mabel: Your girlfriend sure is cool Steven!

Steven: Yeah, I love her a lot.

Mabel:

Mabel: :")

Steven:

Steven: Uh-

Mabel: No, no. It's just cute. Don't mind me. I hope when I'm a teenager I can find love like this. Haha...

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Steven: You guys' grunkle is really nice!

Dipper: Yeah, at first he can be a bit mean, but in reality he's a great guy if he wants to be. Trust me, I've been there.

Steven: Aw... I said that cause he gave me something for free. That's a start, I guess?

Dipper: Sure is.

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Stan, going through a box of old stuff: Ahaha, yeah. Brings back some good old memories.

Steven: Oh, can I look? If you don't mind?

Stan: Sure kid.

Steven: ...

Steven: A... Space Train to the Cosmos CD?

Stan: Yeah, haha. He has the same last name as you. I remember listening to him years ago.

Steven: Mr. Pines... this is my dad. Greg Universe.

Stan: ... What.

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

this is before D & M met Ford, I guess? (if this takes place when D & M arrive to GF for the first time)

Steven: So... what's that?

Dipper: Ah! It's uh- it's nothing. haha...

Steven: Dipper, are you okay? What are you holding there?

Dipper: sighs It's just...

Mabel: IT'S A JOURNAL!

Dipper: Mabel!

Steven: Oh, like a diary? That's cool.

Dipper: It's... more than that, actually.

Mabel: Come on! Let's just tell him!

Dippers: Well, uh, it's basically a journal that has a lot of information written down from all these weird monsters and creatures in Gravity Falls. I still have no idea who the author is.

Steven: Wow... Have you told Mr. Pines?

Dipper: He didn't take it seriously.

Steven: Hmm...

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Steven: I don't understand your purpose... nor do I understand why you look like that

Steven: But I support you

Soos: Dude it's just square pizza

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Connie visits again

Steven: Connie! Hey!

Connie: Steven!

they go for a hug, then fuse

Stevonnie: ...Uh-oh.

Mabel: :D WOOOO!!! HOW???

Dipper: >:0

Dipper: WHAT THE FUCK??

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Ford: This is so interesting... a half-gem, half-human.

Ford: Tell me, what can you do?

Steven: Well, I can summon a shield. I have healing powers. I can bring plants to life. I can bubble things up. I can also have destruct- oh, I uh, I actually don't like talking about that.

Ford: ...Can you show me your shield?

Steven: sure summons his shield

Ford: Wh- how do you do that?

Steven: Well, it's my gem that just summons it when I want to.

Ford: So how powerful is it?

Steven: Oh, pretty powerful, I guess? I was able to protect myself from the diamonds- oh uh, yeah, the uh diamonds are the most strongest gem, by the way. Yellow tried to step on me and tried to uh, hurt me haha but it's okay now.

Ford: Wow! So, how tall and strong are these diamonds? And uh, that's crazy she did that. But do tell me more.

Steven: They're really tall. I don't exactly know how much but as tall as a skyscraper... maybe taller? I'm not sure. The tallest one is White.

Ford: Interesting... I'm guessing you're a diamond too? You were able to protect yourself, after all.

Steven: starts glowing pink a little

Ford: Huh!?

Steven: Ah- sorry, sorry! That just happens sometimes!

Ford: Glowing pink... hm...

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Imagine they all (Stan, Soos, Steven, Dipper and Mabel) fall into that one bottomless pit. Steven completely panics because the others are falling and he's worried to the point where he just forgets about his floating powers. But after the others start telling some of their stories, he calms down. They turn around to him and ask him if he could tell a story aswell. He tells them about how cool it was to learn combat with his (now girl-)friend Connie. How at that point he learned something very important. The others listen very well to him, and as he finishes the story they, surprisingly, fall out of the bottomless pit. After this Mabel and Dipper ask Steven about the things he has learned and if he could teach them.

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Mabel and Dipper: wearing their peanut butter and jelly costumes

Steven: Hahaha! That looks nice, why are you dressed like that?

Mabel: Summerween!

Steven: Oh, I've never heard of that! :D

Dipper: Yeah cause they honestly just made all of this up.

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Steven hanging out with the other teens!!! Very important!!! He needs to learn how to "act his age", y'know what I mean? explore around. take some risks (that are not traumatising, thank you). just be a teenager in general.

(i could make a whole other post for this tbh)

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Stan: You have literally no legal documents, kid.

Steven: Yeahh...

Stan: I love it!

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Robbie: And who are you?

Steven: Oh I just, uh, work here.

Robbie: Yeah? With Wendy, huh?

Steven: Oh! Yeah, she's my workmate, I guess?

Robbie: Hm... right.

Robbie: walks past him while elbowing him in an aggressive way

Steven, whispering: Yikes... scary.

Dipper, from the back: I know right!?

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Mabel, goofing around, doing some weird stuff: hehehe

Steven: Wow... thinking about it, she'd get along with Amethyst.

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Mabel: gasp Oh my gosh! Steven, look at Waddles and Lion!

Lion and Waddles: literally just staring at eachother

Mabel and Steven, with star eyes: Awww....

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Wendy: Dude, your girlfriend seems really cool.

Steven: Oh, yeah! She's great. She's really smart and pretty, she can sing and play the violin... she can sword fight-

Wendy: Wait wait wait... sword fight?

Steven: Yeah!

Wendy: Your girlfriend rides a pink lion and can sword fight? That's so cool!

Steven, full of love: Ah, yeah... she's amazing...

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Hope y'all enjoyed this one. This is the second part! Even though none of these are in any order, so it doesn't matter. But here's the first one. Also, I just wanted to say something about the shapeshifting thing: I do enjoy posts where Steven shapeshifts to make his arm or whatever longer to help. It's really cute, but in my opinion (again, my opinion) I feel like after steven turning into a cat and kaiju monster, he'd be way too uncomfortable to shapeshift. It'd also remind him of when he became taller, buff and was glowing pink. That's just what I think. :-)

[anon-rebel-writes]

Prickly Family

I was playing with my pet hedgehog and started imagining cute Lukanette with their own pet hedgehog. Thus this story was born!

I hope you all enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing this!

The story is under the cut! Ao3 Link

Luka absolutely loved his life. He knew how lucky he was to have everything he wanted. After he finally proposed to Marinette, they decided to move in together. It seemed to be going great. Their tiny apartment seemed to always be filled with love and warmth. The couple always made sure to make time for one another. After they defeated Shadowmoth, it seemed like they could finally live a normal life.

But he should’ve known that with his Couffaine Chaos and the sheer havoc Marinette Dupain-Cheng brought with her, that “normal” could never exist in their home. So he wasn’t sure why he was surprised when he came home to find his Fiancee watching a hedgehog run around their tiny living room floor.

“Luka-!”

Marinette quickly scrambled to catch the little animal as she realized her soon-to-be-husband came back home. Unfortunately for her, hedgehogs were a lot faster than she thought they’d be (It wasn’t like there was a certain franchise to warn them about the relationship between hedgehogs and speed). After some failed attempts, she managed to grab a hold of him and let him lay in her arms.

Luka wasn’t sure what face he was making, but judging by her pout, he could tell it was probably shock, or confusion, or shock, definitely shock.

Marinette looked between him and the hedgehog in her hands and slowly made her way over to the front door where Luka was still standing. “So...y’know how you’ve always wanted a dog, but couldn’t have one since you lived on a boat and how I’ve always wanted a hamster?”

“Mari-”

Before he could talk any sense into her, she lifted the small hedgehog in her hands so that they blocked her face. “This is the best of both worlds!” The little animal lifted its snout, most likely trying to figure out where the new scent was coming from.

While the hedgehog was adorable, and he could admit it was, Luka couldn’t help but slowly shake his head. “Mari, Melody, the love of my life, why did you- why do you think a hedgehog is a good pet to get right now.”

Marinette started to shrink into herself as she put the hedgehog back into her arms. Her pout only grew hearing the bewilderment in Luka’s voice. “Well...he’s small like a hamster. But he’s also active, like a dog!” She could only look at the curious hedgehog as he nibbled on her shirt. “Also I love him! I’ve decided to keep him! So- You can’t take him back!”

Luka took a deep breath and waddled closer to her. Despite everything in his brain screaming at him to tell her ‘No,’ he couldn’t deny that Marinette always seemed to have a way to persuade him. He would, of course, be upset at himself later for letting her keep the hedgehog, but when it came to Marinette Dupain-Cheng, he learned early on that it was better to just accept the craziness that came with her. “Does it- does it have a name yet?”

She finally met his eyes again. He was definitely tense, obviously nervous, but underneath those nerves she could tell he was trying to open himself up. Marinette felt herself let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding and a smile engulfed her face.

“Jovi.”

Luka looked at her with slight amusement as he cupped his hands in front of her. “Jovi?” She let out a slight squeal of excitement at his reaction, which made the hedgehog curl into himself a bit. She bit her lip to hold back her noises and gently began to place Jovi into Luka’s hands.

He was surprisingly not that hard to hold.

“As in Bon Jovi. I was thinking about music because- well you’re Luka Couffaine. Also you’ve been playing a lot of Bon Jovi’s music lately.” The hedgehog was stiff in his hands at first. Luka held his breath as he stared at the little creature. He wasn’t sure what was okay to do yet. The last thing he wanted to do was make a bad first impression.

After about a minute of Jovi being still, he slowly uncurled himself and began sniffing around Luka’s hands. While the hedgehog was trying to see if it was safe to move, Luka was having a mini heart attack. “Oh my god.”

“I know right! He’s so cute!”

“Oh my god.”

“I think he might like you!”

“Oh my god.”

Marinette moved her eyes away from Jovi and looked at her fiance's expression. Luka’s eyes were the widest she had ever seen them. His mouth was agape as his eyes traced Jovi’s every move.

“Luka? Are you okay?”

Unable to trust anything to come out of his mouth other than ‘Oh my god,’ he moved his head slowly up and down. Meanwhile, Jovi finally decided that he trusted Luka. He slowly nibbled on the collar of his sleeve. Luka’s eyes closed as the corners of his mouth began to turn upwards.

“I love him.”

Marinette looked at Jovi and gently pet his back as he decided he was done tasting the sleeve. She noticed that his little quills were fully flat against his back as she brushed him with her finger. After petting him into a calm state, she looked back at Luka.

His eyes were still closed but his smile was much more wide. It seemed she had finally managed to convince him. “Mari, I love him. I love Jovi Couffaine.”

Marinette let out a small laugh and quickly covered her mouth so as to not disturb the hedgehog. Luka finally opened his eyes and she saw the utter joy on his face. She couldn’t help the sly look that took over her features. “You’re already giving him your last name? Before you even give it to me?”

Luka looked back down at the hedgehog as Jovi began to climb his arms. He let out an amused chuckle and met her eyes again. “Melody, I want nothing more than to make you a Couffaine. But look at his little face! You really want me to just call him Jovi? A hedgehog like him deserves a last name!”

They both let out soft laughs together as Jovi tried to climb into the neck hole of Luka’s shirt. “Wow, he’s strong,” Luka proclaimed. Marinette quickly grabbed Jovi and let him cuddle into her arms. “Yeah, he hides his muscle underneath all that fat.”

After a bit of talking about the living situation for little Jovi, they both found their way to the couch as the hedgehog finally started to rest. “He’s nocturnal,” Marinette clarified. “So he might take a nap now and be up all night.” Luka couldn’t help but gently graze the back of his fingers over the hedgehog as Marinette cuddled into his side. “I love our little family,” Luka whispered. Whether to himself or to her, he wasn’t sure.

“Family?” She shifted next to him so they could meet eyes. But looking at his expression was the only answer she needed. Luka seemed so blissful at this moment.

Maybe the insanity had finally taken over, but Marinette had a feeling that little Jovi wasn’t what he was envisioning in her arms. She let her head rest on his shoulder as they drank in the moment. A deep sigh left her as she closed her eyes. “Our family.”

[second-chance-stray]

(Split Ends) RP Log: Cravs, Riylli, and Rising’s friendship is tested.

(Cravendy Hound) It's not easy, but the three of them manage to hike back out of the Sylphlands without getting noticed, with Rising being dragged along on Crav's back. The trio finds their way to a Sylphic house and, with Rising's body laid out on the floor, are figuring out what to do next.

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli had done the talking, likely the only one here with any experience with the sylphs, and it had not been long before they had identified the plant responsible and secured the antidote. Now that it had been applied, there was nothing left to do but wait. In awkward silence. For a terribly long time.

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs taps her foot impatiently and, upon reaching the limits of the patience, whispers loudly to Riylli. "When's she gonna wake up?"

(Rising Lotus) Rising had still felt the world spin around her, even laid out on the floor with her eyes shut tight. Thing started to slow down however once the antidote was applied, eventually cracking one of her eyes open, the right amount of colors in front of her instead of every one of the rainbow. "Ugh..." she brought her hand to her forehead, rubbing it as she sat up.

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli had been leaning against the tree with her arms crossed, nervously picking at the dried paint on her arm. "...Should be- now, yes." The Miqo'te hopped up, stepping over to look down at Rising. "Good morning, how are you feeling?"

(Cravendy Hound) "Right. Ye think ye can stand?" Cravs fusses in the distance, keeping herself an arm's length from Rising.

(Rising Lotus) "Ngh... the dreams were the worst part..." she blinked a few times as everything seemed to be set in place instead of spinning now, wobbling a bit as she rose to her feet but otherwise looking stable. "Ngh... that's worse than when I went in that moldy city..."

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli pats the Roegadyn on the back. "This is why we don't mess around in Sylph territory... You're lucky they just like to mess with people for the most part."

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs tilts her head at the mention of a city, though there was plenty more she was curious about. "They're just dreams, they ain't real. But if ye've got a 'abit of stickin' yer nose in moldy places, then I've got a problem with that."

(Rising Lotus) "I 'spose so, saw some pretty neat colors  though." she glanced to Cravs. "Well that was before I joined up with Heartwood, an' I ain't gonna go there any time soon, was kinda neat though." she glanced to Riylli. "Where did we leave off before I started losin' it now?"

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli hesitated before letting out a sigh. "We were ABOUT to force Cravs to tell us what mess she's gotten herself into so we can help her. So... Hope you're feeling clear headed"

(Cravendy Hound) "Ye were about to do several backflips in a row." Cravs jokes. ".......don't listen to Riylli."

(Rising Lotus) Rising clenched her hands a few times as she watched them. "Honestly I feel more focused than normal, it's weird." At least the medicine didn't SEEM to have any adverse side effects. "Anyway yeah! You gotta tell us 'bout your mess!" she jabbed a finger in Crav's direction.

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli gives Cravs a rather unamused look. "...Y'better not try to run this time. Just gotta rip the bandage off, get it over with an' all that..."

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs lets out a tired sigh, head hung low. "Either I tell ye, or I don't and ye both'll still butt yer 'eads in my business, potentially messin' everythin' up." She sucks in air between her teeth, headache incoming. "Fuck."

(Cravendy Hound) "Last chance. Seriously, I won't care if ye leave me to my shit. There's...a lot, and I'm..." She trails off. "I'm sure ye don't see me in a positive light, but trust me, it can get worse."

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli lets out an annoyed huff. "Oh just out with it already! You know we ain't gonna leave you behind when you're in trouble, and unless you went on a killin' spree through an orphanage or somethin' I doubt we'll change our minds about bein' friends"

(Rising Lotus) "I ain't gonna talk to a loan shark with jus' Riylli, then get knocked out by some weird bandit, THEN get super blazed out of my mind in the Sylphwoods to back out now!" she said, almost a tinge of pride to this strange journey. "But yeah! You're my friend, our friend...and uh.." she starts to lose her steam a bit ".. I jus' want to help ya, an' don't want ya to leave, or have somethin' happen to ya.."

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs is taken aback by Riylli's earnestness, barbed as it may be. She looks between the miqo'te and Rising, frown trembling. How, and where, to start? Cravs is certain that if she speaks now, it'll come out all wrong. Instead, she reaches into her pocket and shows an empty tranquilizer cartridge to her friends.

(Cravendy Hound) The unique design of the ammunition leaves not an ilm of doubt. Either Cravs buys the same stuff as the bandit, or...she's saying without words, that they're one and the same.

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli just stares at the cartridge for a long moment, the hamster wheel in her head taking it's time to work out what it meant. Recognition eventually shone through in her eyes, and without a word the girl steps forward and slugs Cravs in the arm. "You ass! Y'know how long my head was achin' 'cuz of those things!? You better start explainin' or I'm gonna hit you again!"

(Rising Lotus) Rising clenches her fists as she sees the ammunition, her whole upper body starting to shake. She was gritting her teeth as she closed her eyes tightly. "Y-Y-You..." she said softly before her eyes shot open and stomped forward. "FUCKING ARSE" There were starting to get look at the tower they were in. "D-do you know how close I was to..." as she stared Cravs down her eyes were watering up as she looked to the side where her spear had hit Cravs. She turned away with a scowl as she started wiping eyes, streams of curses coming from her mouth about how stupid Cravs was.

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs instinctively moves her hand up to catch Riylli's punch. Worry flickers in her eyes as she forces her body to go slack, to let whatever hits that come next follow through. Hits, she can take. Rising crying in front of her, she can't. Worry turns to panic. "S-stop yer sobbin', alright?! Look, I can take a beatin'! Come on, show me what ye got."

(Cravendy Hound) "If it 'elps, I didn't expect any of you to be there. If I knew, I wouldn't 'ave attacked." She mutters.

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli changed it up upon gaining permission, kicking Cravs in the shin. "Rising almost killed you y'know! If I wasn't so busy takin' care of that kid you were supposed to be babysittin' you'd be dead right now!"

Rising Lotus seemed a bit more rattled if anything. "It would've of mattered if I got you where I was aiming!" she snapped back, sniffing hard as she kept her her gaze away from the two. "An' Riylli could've bashed your head in with a rock!" she brought her hands to her face, holding them there for a few moments to try and deal with this angry sobbing.

(Cravendy Hound) "Ow! Shit, 'ow do ye kick so 'ard with sandals?" She groans. Eyes downcast and pain radiating from her leg, she talks to the floor. "...Pah, I would've hung on. I won't die. Not until I've exposed Mindred for the bitch that she is."

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs straights back up, ready to take another hit if it's coming. "Mindred's the one hasslin' Baldur, and I won't rest till I see 'er suffer."

(Riylli Aliapoh) "'Cuz I practice!" Riylli states, quite confidently. "Wait, that's not the point! Why didn't you just tell us? We coulda all jumped her durin' our meeting if you had actually came with us and just explained she was the one behind it!"

(Rising Lotus) "Cause we would've been put to the gallow if we did that." she sniffled a bit more as she turned around, eyes still looking a bit teary but most of her crying under control. "Those types of folk have strong connections, there's a reason why they can keep gougin' people with out gettin' caught."

(Cravendy Hound) "What, without evidence?! 'ave ye two on 'er bad side too? I thought if I wasn't with ye two, she'd get the idea that I ditched ye." Cravs growls back. "She knows who 'Singing Gull' is, alright? Shits gonna spiral, and I didn't want ye both involved anymore."

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli crossed her arms. "Plenty of ways to get around that... Like, for starters, not givin' her our real names!" The Miqo'te shifted her glare back to Cravs. "And that still doesn't explain why you were tryin' to rob her caravan, or collecting drugs out in the Sylphlands."

(Rising Lotus) "Well we're past that..." she sighed. "Which means trouble might be comin' our way anyway if she thinks we're connected someway.." she takes a deep breath, grumbling afterwards. "So like it or not we're involved whether you like it or not. You planned this horribly." she rubbed her eyes a bit more to get hopefully the last tears out.

(Rising Lotus) Not one but TWO chances to like it or not! Look I'm tired xD))

(Cravendy Hound) "I attacked cause I needed to find some dirt on 'er, and I did...but I found the worst kind." Cravs looks to the side. "I'm friends with some bandits that get their goods illegally, and Mindred trades with 'em. So I'm was tryin' to find a way to prove 'er criminal ties -without- gettin' the bandit friends caught too."

(Cravendy Hound) "So I'm 'ere to find somethin' she can't resist. I guess ye can say I'm plannin' on plantin' evidence."

(Cravendy Hound) "There's always a bad apple in the bunch, but that don't mean the rest is spoiled. I figured...she'd think that way about 'eartwood. Shit, I didn't think this through, okay?!"

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli stares at Cravs for a moment, then tilts her head. "...You're friends with bandits? What kind of banditry are we talking..."

(Rising Lotus) Rising groans. "We need to figure out where to go from here.. otherwise we're jus' gonna run into more trouble... I jus' don't know what the in the hells to do, everything seems like it's in such a damn mess."

(Cravendy Hound) "Not just friends." Cravs turns away, hair obscuring her face as she crosses her arms tightly over her chest. "Ye could call me their.....organizer. Leader. Fuck, it was a mistake, okay? But when piratin' became outlawed, I was mad as 'ell!"

(Cravendy Hound) "It /is/ a mess. Oy, I warned ye." Cravs quips. She combs her bangs back with her hand and then groans into the sky.

(Riylli Aliapoh) "A bandit LEADER?" Riylli's eyes widen, though she seems more surprised than upset. She brings a hand to her head. "Alright, hold on, one thing at a time... What kind of banditry. Stealing? Killing? Kidnapping?"

(Rising Lotus) "So we got these bandits that we need to protect, while provin' that Rot is doin' somethin' bad, all while also helpin' Baldur out."  she rubbed her temple "What was your plan than with this toad goo?"

(Cravendy Hound) "It's more like a loose coalition of salt-eatin' pirates who want to relive the good ol' days. So, uh.......w-well." She puts a hand over her mouth. "What matters is that I 'aven't 'ung out with 'em since joinin' 'eartwood."

(Cravendy Hound) "The toad goo's like gold to a spice trader. So, after plantin' some kind of tracker in it...I was gonna give the goo to Dirtpatch, tell my bandit friends bout it, and wait till it got traded back to Mindred. Then, Dirtpatch could use it as proof that she gets 'er shit illegally."

(Cravendy Hound) "I was gonna take precautions to make sure Dirtpatch doesn't get raided or anythin'!"

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli kept her arms crossed, now tapping her finger impatiently. "You're avoiding my question... Are these really people you should consider friends..?"

(Cravendy Hound) "They're angry, they're stupid, but yeah, they're my friends. Look Riylli, I was one of them! Maybe I still am." Cravs spits out, self-loathing dripping from her words. "And if ye put two and two together, maybe ye'd know why Baldur 'ates me so much."

(Rising Lotus) "..Oh..." she looked away. "...It was in the back of my mind, from the little I knew about Wyda...but I thought it was jus' a coincidence." she let out another sigh, this day was full of long sighs. "So that's your interest in him then? Makin' up for killin' his pa?"

(Cravendy Hound) "Yeah. I set this all off. So I gotta make it better."

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli continued tapping her finger for a long time, indecision clear on her face as she tried to come to some sort of conclusion. "You don't... have to be one of them. Not if you don't want to be..." She offered, letting out a sigh and rubbing the back of her neck. "I know it aint that easy... Just... Don't think of yourself as a lost cause, okay?"

(Rising Lotus) Between the strange substance she had inhaled, the cure, and now all of this, Rising was looking particularly exhausted. "I don't know if it's a good idea to involve Dirtpatch, I'm sure they'd find a connection to Heartwood, an' I'm sure by now they figured out we have ties there. I don't really got any better ideas though. At least not right now."

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs blinks, touched by Riylli's sentiment, and then sends her a worn out smile. "I /am/ a lost cause. But that won't stop me from tryin' to make use outta the life I've got."

(Cravendy Hound) "Mindred already knows I'm at 'eartwood, but I'll do everythin' in my power to make sure that I'm the only one to face the music." She looks to Rising now, for the first time making direct eye contact with her. Then, to Riylli. "I'm doing my best, but it might not be enough. Might grow outta this, might not. Even still, would ye watch over me?"

(Riylli Aliapoh) Riylli frowns, then proceeds to kick her in the shin yet again. "Idiot! You're my friend, and I don't let anyone talk like that about my friends!" She shoots Cravs an annoyed glare, then pulled back to plant her hands on her hips. "Of course we'll watch over you! We'll figure this out together and get you out of this mess."

Rising Lotus broke eye contact with Cravs fairly quickly after their gazes met. " Yeah, I mean I'm involved an' all. We should probably think of a better plan, or work it out or somethin' though." she shrugs weakly, keeping her distance from the duo. "Sleep on it or somethin' I dunno... I kinda jus' wanna be alone for a bit."

(Cravendy Hound) "OW! Damnit, the same shin too?" Cravs jumps up and hugs her leg into her chest. But, despite the physical pain, she mostly feels relieved. While she wasn't off the hook yet, the fact that her friends didn't immediately disown her despite knowing about all this baggage...it was nice. It was really nice.

(Riylli Aliapoh) "You better get used to it, I'm gonna keep kickin' you 'till you learn to trust us!" Riylli said, grinning at the threat. She turned to Rising, looking her up and down. "...Yeah, you probably deserve a rest after that Sylph cocktail. I'll talk to Ava, see if she can come up with anythin' to help. I'll leave your names out of it though, don't worry!"

(Cravendy Hound) Cravs sends Rising a worried look and wants desperately to comfort her. But maybe she's the cause for Rising's discomfort? Unwilling to take chances, she just sort of stares longingly at the other woman.

(Cravendy Hound) "Bugger me, I better buy some proper leg guards then..." Cravs shoots back at Riylli. "And yeah, ye do that. No more bad dreams though, ye 'ear?"

(Rising Lotus) Rising weakly shrugged again, turning to start to leave the Sylph tower. "We can meet again soon an'd plan things out, figure out a way to get her an' everything." she sounded quite drained, but nonetheless hurried on her way off without so much as a wave.

(Cravendy Hound) Though Cravs had thought otherwise, the trio’s friendship has survived the truth. Burdens shared and a chance given - one that Cravs was determined not to squander. The three of them would eventually leave the woods with much to muse over on their own.

[flightfoot]

We’re the Same Chapter 4

Thanks to @mini-minou for betaing, and @dfcfanfics and draxynnic for helping with brainstorming the fight scene!

AO3/FFN

Disclaimer:  This is a Lovesquare fic, with Identity Reveal, Hawkmoth Reveal, and Hawkmoth Defeat. It is NOT a salt fic.

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Marinette quickly scanned her surroundings. There wasn’t much. There was a door they could try to open, maybe regroup, but if Robin had locked it they were sunk. That would still make a good Plan A – bolt through the door, regroup, find supplies and maybe try to fashion a trap of some sort, or even get to Master Fu so they could use other Miraculous – but she needed a Plan B as well.

As her eyes darted to the side, she caught a glimpse of Adrien’s tense expression.

NOPE.

SHE COULD NOT THINK ABOUT HIM RIGHT NOW.

Not with how she’d been snuggling into his chest and he’d been holding her and he was also Chat Noir which meant he loved her back and the soft looks her kitty had given her and-

NO. BAD MARINETTE. THINK ABOUT ADRICHAT LOVE REVELATIONS LATER, CONCENTRATE ON GETTING MIRACULOUS BACK NOW.

Seriously, what was up with Robin?! If he really WAS Robin. At this point she had her doubts. Robin was supposed to be a good guy, and knocking out and kidnapping her and Adri- (CHAT, think of him as Chat, she knew how to function with Chat Noir, she couldn’t afford to get all flustered and clumsy now- ) –Chat, kidnapping her and Chat didn’t exactly scream ‘I’m a good guy you can totally trust’.

Maybe the Robin Lucky Charm hadn’t been a sign that she needed Robin, but a warning to look out for him? She thought she remembered him talking about having important information for them, but she’d been so out of it at the time, she could easily be imagining it.

Whatever, she’d figure it out later. If he was an enemy, they had to take him down and get the Miraculous back. If he was an ally (and if he was she was going to have a TALK with him about how to make friends) then they still needed to take him down and get the Miraculous back, since it was probably part of some stupid test. Either way, her path was clear.

At least they probably didn’t have to worry about him killing or injuring them too badly. If he wanted to do that, he could’ve done it while they were sleeping. Which meant that he probably WASN’T an enemy, because he didn’t have much to gain by doing this if he was.

She was SO yelling at him later if this was a test.

First, time to try the door. She darted over towards it, keeping one eye on Robin. He looked on, appearing bored. He didn’t move.

On the one hand, that was good. He wasn’t attacking right away. Maybe he was waiting for them to get their bearings? It increased in the odds that this was a test and that he probably wouldn’t try to hurt them too much or misuse the Miraculouses.

On the other hand him looking bored meant that he probably didn’t expect her to be successful and- yep, door was locked. If Chat was transformed, that wouldn’t be a problem. But if Chat was transformed, that would solve half the problem in the first place.

No use thinking about “what ifs” – she needed to deal with the here and now.

Ok, so she was limited to what was on the rooftop. What did she have?

Hm… no purse. That limited her options. All she had were the clothes she had on, and she imagined that Adrien was the same way.

On the rooftop itself, there were some bits of trash and debris. Let’s see – some stray candy wrappers, snack bags, plastic bags, some loose metal pipes and screws, probably left over from some sort of construction.

She could work with this. Nothing insanely complicated and convoluted, but she didn’t have time for her usual convoluted plans. Especially since she couldn’t communicate privately.

She darted over to the debris, handing the metal pipe to Chat. “Fight him as best you can, follow my lead,” she whispered.

He nodded. “Always, Milady.”

She blushed. DAMMIT Chat, did he have to look at her with those adoring eyes while unmasked? She’d been able to handle it while he was transformed, she’d gotten used to it from him and whenever those looks got to her, she’d been able to remind herself that she was in love with Adrien.

Knowing that Adrien and Chat Noir were the same person? Seeing those looks from Adrien? He was going to kill her. R.I.P. Marinette, she had a good run. Found dead on a random rooftop at age 14, still red from blushing.

Though… he’d ALWAYS had special looks for her. Chat had his adoring look at Ladybug, but as Adrien he’d often given her that soft look, the one that Alya pointed out in videos and photos of them – the one he’d given her when she’d fallen in love with him all those months ago.

Maybe Adrien hadn’t been in love with Marinette romantically – or hadn’t realized it at least – but he loved her, regardless of the combination of masked and unmasked.

She was beginning to realize that she did as well.

She shook her head. DAMMIT Ladybug, FOCUS! Love life later, battle now!

Chat rushed at Robin, pipe in hand. Hopefully he’d be able to keep Robin occupied, at least for a few seconds.

She snatched up a plastic bag, making sure her back was turned to Robin so he couldn’t see what she was doing, and tucked it into her sleeve. The only thing she had going for her was the element of surprise. She had to make it count.

She edged closer to where Adrien was fighting Robin. Though “fighting” might be a misnomer. Robin wasn’t making any moves towards Adrien. He wasn’t even trying to get away. He just dodged Adrien’s attacks, looking faintly bored.

It kept him occupied. That was good enough.

Robin’s eyes followed her, seemingly curious, but he made no move towards her either.

Not good. The element of surprise was all she had. She couldn’t really regain it now, not by herself.

Luckily she didn’t have to.

Long months of akuma battles had attuned Chat and Ladybug to each other’s movements. She knew her partner and he knew her. She didn’t have time to relay her plan to Chat.

She didn’t have to.

In one fluid movement she pulled the bag from her sleeve, unfurling it quickly. Simultaneously Adrien moved to the side, leaving her opposite himself with Robin in-between them. He aggressively swung the pipe at Robin’s midsection, forcing him to step backwards towards Marinette.

She brought down the bag over Robin’s head. Adrien dropped his makeshift weapon, lunging for Robin’s closed fist.

Just as Adrien made contact with his hand, Robin jumped back, actively putting distance between himself and Adrien for the first time in the fight.

“ENOUGH!”

Adrien and Marinette paused.

Robin shook his head, dislodging the plastic bag.

He narrowed his eyes. “If I’d been fighting back, you’d both have been dead in seconds. The two of you have little sense of self-preservation and no idea how to keep yourself from being injured in a serious fight.”

A smile slowly spread over his face. He turned to face Adrien. “Still… while it was obvious that you were used to battling with a lighter weapon – or at least with enhanced strength so it SEEMS lighter – your technique was passable, taking that into account.”

“As for you Marinette, using the plastic bag to obscure my vision wouldn’t have worked. I can fight blind if I have to. There’s a reason why my costume has a hood when no other Robin’s did – I can afford it. Even if a foe pulls it over my head to blindfold me, I can still fight. Conceptually it was a decent idea, considering what you had to work with.”

He gave them a gap-toothed grin. “You two are overly reliant on your Miraculous. You’re sitting ducks as civilians, and if someone competent guns for you, you’re dead. But you have potential.”

He extended his hand towards them, unfurling it to reveal their Miraculous.

Glaring at him, Marinette and Adrien snatched them back. Slipping her earrings back on, she let out a silent prayer. Please let these be real. Please don’t let this be some cruel trick. Please let Tikki be-

A light shown, expelling itself from her earrings.

“TIKKI!”

She caught the little bug in her hands. “Are you okay? He didn’t do anything to you, did he?”

Tikki shook her head. “I’m fine. I just wasn’t manifested, that’s all.”

Then she seemed to fully take in exactly who all was there. With herself in full view. And talking.

“Uh… meow meow?”

Robin crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow.

Marinette sighed. “It’s no use pretending, Tikki. Robin’s the one who kidnapped us in the first place.”

“You, a red-and-black spotted bug-like floating creature the size of the hamster, meowed as a way of pretending you were a cat,” Robin stated, drumming his fingers against his arm.

“Hey, it’s worked before!” Marinette cut in.

He gave her a look.

She didn’t waver. This boy had kidnapped her and Adrien, stolen Tikki and Plagg, and he had the nerve to make fun of Tikki afterwards?

No. She would NOT be intimidated by him. She was not going to put up with him looking down on her or her friends.

He wanted to throw shade? Fine. She’d throw it right back.

“You don’t get to criticize Tikki, me, or any of us for making poor decisions. YOU KIDNAPPED US. YOU HAVE NO ROOM TO TALK.”

He snorted. She resisted the urge to punch him in the face.

“I needed to see whether you’d be a help or a hindrance. After seeing how you did without powers, I believe you two could be useful.”

“And why should we help you?” Marinette said through gritted teeth.

Robin looked at Marinette, then Adrien, who had stopped cuddling Plagg and been watching their confrontation.

“Because I know who Hawkmoth is.”

Wait, WHAT?!

Adrien stared at Robin, slack-jawed. He knew? HOW?

Robin looked at Adrien with something like… was that pity?

“I needed to know who you two were, so I placed trackers on both of you. Ducard followed Ladybug while I followed Chat Noir. It didn’t take me long to figure out that Chat Noir was Adrien Agreste… but that wasn’t all I discovered.”

  Dread pooled in Adrien’s stomach. How could following him home have possibly led to Hawkmoth’s identity? He didn’t have anything to do with Hawkmoth! (Well, aside from the obvious.)

…Right?

Robin looked Adrien in the eyes. “Hawkmoth is your father, Gabriel Agreste.”

Adrien’s heart stopped.

There’s… there’s no way.

“No. No, you’re LYING! I know he hasn’t always been around much, but… but he cares about me! He’s not a bad person, you HAVE to be lying. Or- or maybe just mistaken. Yeah! He CAN’T be Hawkmoth, we suspected that before, but then he was akumatized right afterwards! You’re WRONG!”

He glanced over at Marinette. Why hadn’t she responded, backed him up?

“Right, my Lady?”

She stared blankly ahead, frozen.

Icy tendrils crept up Adrien’s chest. “Marinette, what’s wrong?”

That snapped her out of her reverie. She bit her lip. “Chat… I don’t think we can rule him out based on that. Not after Heroes Day. He had an accomplice, remember? Whoever was using the Peacock Miraculous to create that Sentimonster moth could easily have just switched Miraculous with him. We can’t rule anyone out based on them being akumatized before. And the timing was highly suspicious. He just happens to become akumatized right when we start suspecting him of being Hawkmoth? It might not have been a coincidence.”

“No, that can’t be right! It CAN’T!” Adrien pleaded. Whether it was to Marinette, Robin, or himself, he wasn’t sure.

“It can, and it is,” Robin said. He took out a device from his toolbelt and pressed a few buttons. A holographic display flickered into existence, showing what appeared to be live feeds from Adrien’s house.

Except for one feed.

“…Mother?”

Why… why was she there? They’d never found a body. It made sense for her to be in a coffin, but… it’d been nearly a year since she’d disappeared. She shouldn’t look this… intact.

Adrien’s stomach turned thinking about it, but he knew at least the basics of how decomposition worked. Even if she was embalmed, she still shouldn’t look this good after all this time.

Unless…

Robin met his gaze. “I checked her over while I was down there. I couldn’t detect any vital signs, but based on the lack of any sign of degradation or rot, I believe that she’s not dead either – most likely in some sort of suspended animation, though how that is being achieved, I’m not sure.”

Not dead?

She… she was alive?

His mother was alive?

He could see her?

He jolted, breathing heavily, palms sweating.

Robin had seen her. In person. He’d been close enough to check for vital signs.

“Where is she?” he breathed out, barely above a whisper, eyes locked to the screen.

A white butterfly fluttered past her pod. Then another. And another. The same kind that Hawkmoth used.

“In Hawkmoth’s lair,” Robin said gently. “In a giant cavern beneath the Agreste Manor.”

All this time.

ALL. THIS. TIME.

She was RIGHT THERE.

Right below him.

And he never knew.

How many sleepless nights had he spent sobbing into his pillow, his mother gone with no explanation?

How long had he wondered what had happened to her?

And the whole time she’d been only a few hundred meters away.

His father had never told him.

Never bothered to confess that she was alive, that he knew where she was.

His father who… who was almost certainly Hawkmoth.

Oh GOD. The- the butterflies.

His father was Hawkmoth.

“…Why?” he asked, quivering. Why would he do this? HOW could he do this? This – he’d thought – he’d thought that his father cared about him, in his own way. At least cared about his safety.

But his father was the one putting him in the most danger. Not even counting when he was Chat Noir, his father had deliberately made akumas in his vicinity, where he should have known that he’d be in danger. He’d even made akumas whose MAIN GOAL was to attack him, to hurt him.

And yet he claimed to care about his safety? That that was the main reason why he kept Adrien on such a tight leash, locked away from the rest of the world?

No. That had never been the true reason.

Marinette placed a hand on his shoulder. He was grateful for that. He felt like he’d shake apart without her touch.

His mother wasn’t dead and wasn’t missing. She’d been near him all along

His father was an evil man who had never really cared whether he was safe. Had never cared about him as a person at all.

His world was crumbling, and the only constant-

A low rumble vibrated through his body, different from his usual purrs.

Vaguely he remembered reading that cats purr when they’re happy and content – but also when they were injured in an attempt to help heal.

But there was no healing this.

“Kitty,” Marinette spoke softly, turning so that they were face-to face. “Whatever happens, whatever your father’s reasons, I’m here for you. Never forget that. We’re a team. You and me against the world, remember?”

 “I- I can’t pretend to know how you’re feeling. What it’s like to have everything you thought you knew disintegrate before your eyes. But I won’t leave you.”

Marinette. Ladybug. She- she was still here.

Maybe things had changed. Two of the most important people in his life were the same person. But that didn’t change who she was.

His mother was alive, but still gone, in a way. His father wasn’t who he thought he was, wasn’t the sort of person he had told himself he must be.

But he still had Marinette.

And not just her.

He had Plagg.

He had Nino.

He even had Chloe, though she had a lot of growing to do.

He had people he could rely on.

He wasn’t alone.

With a sob, he collapsed into Marinette’s arms.

She hugged him tight, whispering quiet assurances, stroking his back. He couldn’t even parse what she was saying – she was too quiet and he was too out of it for that – but he appreciated the soft, comforting tone of her voice nonetheless.

After a few moments she shifted, lifting her gaze from Adrien to Damian. “I need to talk with Adrien for a while. Help him process. Plus – well, there’s a high chance of him being akumatized right now. I need to be ready to catch butterflies. We can talk about what to do about Gabriel later. Not much later, Adrien is NOT going to spend another night in that house, but once he’s in a better place.”

Oh. Oh CRAP. He hadn’t even thought of that! The idea of being turned against His Lady…? He shuddered. Surely Gabriel wouldn’t- oh who was he kidding, of course he would. If he thought it would give him half a chance of winning, he wouldn’t hesitate. He’d certainly proven that he was fine with throwing Adrien’s in harm’s way. Making him harm others, harm the people closest to him? Well since when had Gabriel given a crap about Adrien’s feelings or the people he cared about (aside from the people that Gabriel also happened to care about. Probably. At this point Adrien wasn’t sure whether Gabriel had ever truly cared for anyone.)

Adrien would rather die than harm Marinette. She was the person he cared the most about it in the world. Besides, she was more important than him. Without her, Paris couldn’t be restored. The world could survive without Adrien for a little while. Without Marinette? Not so much.

He trusted her to fix everything. To bring him back. She was Marinette after all. She always found a way.

“Tikki, Spots on!”

A pink light ran up Marinette’s body. Bare skin and cotton clothing replaced by a red-and-black suit.

“Hold on, kitty,” she whispered in his ear, gripping him tightly.

He nodded mutely. He’d known that Marinette was Ladybug of course, but seeing it so obviously, so undeniably? He just wanted to sit for another few minutes and process.

If only Ladybug’s secret identity was the only thing he had to think about.

Gripping an arm around his waist (his cheeks pinkened at the sensation), she threw her yo-yo, flinging herself and Adrien away.

[a-marlene-s]

La Red: Part 4

If anyone is interested or want to support my writing feel to drop by.  https://ko-fi.com/a_marlene_s

Second Chance…

Second Chance…

Second Chance.

There are so many chances Marinette could give before she loses how many eff’s she could give about her class now. Except for Sabrina and to some extension, Chole as the bespectacled teen had more or less told the Mayor’s daughter of her past. Just enough so that Chole will not kick up a massive fuss once she returns from her trip with her mother.

Even so, Marinette is alone and needs to start putting the plan into action. The first step is to take a step back and evaluate the situation. That situation is, of course, being one Lila Rossi and her never-ending lies. Attacking the lies directly resulted in her being alienated from the class and Marinette needed to go about it differently. There was no way she is going to take Adrien’s advice. Sabrina made it clear and managed to get into her own mind, that Adrien is someone that she could no longer consider a friend.

Adrien made it loud and clear that her own feelings did not matter, that he made her feel like no one. The no one that Lila is not hurting with her constant lies. Marinette does not need that. What she needs are people that could stand by her, not push her around and force them to comply with the demands of others.

So, when Marinette took her seat in the back of the classroom and ignored Adrien as he too took a seat next to her. Adrien attempted to gain Marinette’s attention, but nothing was working, he needed to talk to her to make sure she sticks with no longer bothering Lila anymore. But no matter how much he tired, to the point of trying to tap on her shoulder, Marinette should move away from her in favor of texting with someone on her phone.

“Marinette?” Adrien said, once again trying to get Marinette’s attention.

“Did you know Jagged put on a poll on his twitter? ‘What’s your favorite animal to have as a pet?’” Marinette couldn’t help but chuckle to herself when she saw Adrien pale at the corner of her eye. “I can’t decide between dog, hamster or Fang.”

“Marinette… did you talk to Jagged about Lila?” Adrien did not bother to hide his accusatory tone from her. It appeared she was not taking the high road.

“Me? Not talking to Jagged? He commissioned me to do some work for him.” Marinette did not look away from her phone. “Are you insinuating I shouldn’t talk to him? About future work?”

For his own part, Adrien recoiled. Oh, how he had temporarily forgotten that Marinette knew Jagged personally and did some work for him. But to personally have his number… and in constant contact with him. “Have you-”

Luckily for Adrien, the teacher walked into the class, announcing they are going to do group projects.

---

❀❀ Mari ❀❀: It’s just that… there’s this new girl at my school, saying that you supposedly have a cat?

🐊 Uncle Jagged 🐊: Really? What kind of stuff is that? Please tell me you don’t believe her, I don’t even like cats. Too mainstream and dangerous to have around Fang. Plus, with Penny’s allergies towards animal fur makes it right down impossible to have one.

Marinette knew two sides to Jagged Stone. The one that he shows to the world, the rock star, and the human behind the mask. If there was one thing, she could easily count on with Jagged is his ability to temporarily drop his façade when the times come for it. He’s being really serious about Lila’s lies that concern him and Penny to an extension.

🐊 Uncle Jagged 🐊: Whenever we have people come backstage, our guards check out of they have been in contact with any sort of animals. Otherwise, we’d make sure Penny doesn’t go near them and I have to steer clear of her after the meet and greet. So not cool with what she is saying. Just say the word and I’ll come by for a visit to clear things up!

❀❀ Mari ❀❀: Don’t come until I say so, I want to keep the fact I know you on the down low right up the time to reveal it…. That and I need to finish your commission.

🐊 Uncle Jagged 🐊: That’s my girl!

---

Bugaboo2: He tried to make me not contact Jagged! I know the guy. He perfectly knew I know the man and I do commissions for him. Did he really expect me not to talk to him about what has been happening???

Little-Miss-Understood: I told you he’s not worth a second chance.

Bugaboo2: I know… It’s just that… I thought, never mind. He made it rather clear that he expects me to take the high road on this and to just roll over to comply with his wishes.

Little-Miss-Understood: Which you are not doing, I hope?

Bugaboo2: No! God no, I am sticking to the plan. He lost his second chance the moment he did not bother to take my feelings into consideration about Lila. What did you manage to pick up on the others?

Little-Miss-Understood: …not good. Lila has a very, firm grip on many of them. The only ones that show promise are Nino, Alix, Ivan and Max. The others a too far gone into Lila’s lies.

Bugaboo2: Really?

Little-Miss-Understood: Nino is following Alya and doing whatever to appease her. He has tried to talk to Alya about her behavior but gets shut down rather quickly about it and Adrien isn’t exactly encouraging his friend to seek the truth either. Alix was never promised anything through Lila’s lies. She simply is skirting around the crowd and never really putting up too much input. Ivan, similar to Nino, he’s following Mylene. Max is an expert in computers not when it comes to humans. Everyone else in the class… we have better luck convincing Alya Ladybug hates her blog than convincing them about Lila’s lies.

Bugaboo2: Understood…. Thank you.”

Little-Miss-Understood: You are welcome. At this point, you need to make a line in the sand and figure out what you are going to do with Alya. Out of everyone in the class, she is the one you need to completely be on board on cutting all ties with her. Lila has her claws gripped tightly to her that Alya will believe everything she says and will defend it to her very last breath.

Bugaboo2: That is what I am afraid of.

---

It was one thing to be around Alya when they are at school, but it is a completely different thing once they are Akuma-fighting superheroes protecting Paris from Hawkmoth. Ladybug needed to reevaluate Rena Rouge and see if her personal life is interfering with her hero work. At first, things were going okay. Nothing out of the norm.

Rena Rouge still being Rena Rouge, if she keeps this up then maybe she still has a chance. Ladybug hopes Rena will be able to separate her civilian life from her hero one. At this point, this could be the only way she could trust her.

Waving good-bye to Chat Noir after taking down another Akuma and it was time to separate ways before the last beep of their miraculous.

“Ladybug!”

‘Right now, she is not Alya. She is Rena Rouge.’ Ran though Ladybug’s mind as she turned around to see Rena running up to her. Rena’s miraculous began to beep, possibly be the beginning of the end. “Yes, Rena?”

“I was wondering if you could tell me how exactly you decide on who becomes a hero?” Rena asked she didn’t bother to hide her excitement let alone that knowing glint in her eyes. “Who receives a miraculous?”

Ladybug took in a deep breath and resisted the urge to pinch the bridge of her nose. Suspicion began to fill her mind as she knew that familiar glint meant. She had seen it many times before and the outcomes of that glint always got Alya in trouble. “I am not the one who fully decides on who receives a miraculous.”

“But you could put in a good word for someone, right?” Rena asked she bounces on the ball of her feet waiting for Ladybug to confirm her thoughts. “Like with myself?”

Beep.

“More or less but… yes.” Ladybug nearly grounded out, she so did not want to have his conversation with her. She suspects that Rena knows who is Carapace, so that takes Nino of the list of who could be a possible future miraculous holder. “I pick people who I believe we, Chat Noir and I, could fight alongside with. People who have the heart of a hero.”

“Have you thought of having someone else helping us? You know, just in case if we need backup?” Rena did not miss a beat. “Giving Chole a miraculous was a very bad idea. You could have given it to someone else like…. Lila! Your best friend.”

Beep.

Ladybug sucked in a deep breath, who she needed to steer this conversation elsewhere. “Chole… Queen Bee has shown progress in being a hero for Paris. Yes, she still needs some work, but she is getting there. As for Lila… it’s a no.”

Beep.

“No? Why not?” Rena questioned; her entire posture turned defensive. “She’s your best friend, right? Why don’t you consider her as a possible backup…?”

Beep. Where Rena Rouge once was, now stood Alya Cesaire who is still ranting.

Ladybug did not bother to listen to whatever else Alya attempted to argue that Lila would become a stupendous Hero. She managed to get a word in when she saw Alya took in a deep breath to continue with her argument. “What about Marinette? She would make a stupendous hero.”

Alya did not bother to hide a snort of disgruntlement. “Like she’ll even have the time to be a hero. Don’t tell me she is filling your head with lies about Lila. Marinette is jealous of Lila, who by the way, is your best friend!”

“Are you insinuating that Marinette Dapain-Cheng is brainwashing me about Lila Rossi?”

“Yes!”

“You’re fired. Give me back your miraculous.” Ladybug finally said, extending her arm out for Alya to give her back the Fox Miraculous.

“Wh-what?”

“I gave you a second chance and you blew it.”

---

Nino did not know what Alya was telling him through the phone. He had just finished helping his mom at the family’s food mart. Nothing out of the norm for him. It brought in a sense of relief for him from constantly having to run around Alya who is constantly running after Ladybug or helping Ladybug… it’s a never-ending cycle. Then there are the fact things are becoming to become tense ever since Lila transferred into their school.

Alya became obsess with Lila to the point it is becoming a constant strain in their relationship. Either Alya is following or helping Ladybug, following Lila and when they do manage to find some sort of time to date, they both must babysit their younger siblings. There were times that he actually preferred to stay home to take care of Chris than to go out after a long day, more so to not get in trouble with his mom. He had to bribe Chris to not spill the beans that Marinette has been babysitting him to oppose himself.

Marinette… Nino felt uneasy with how things were going for her in and out of school. Every time he attempted to say something, Alya, Lila and even Adrien will quarrel down his doubts about her supposed attitude towards Lila’s words. Of course, he’s not exactly innocent on the entire matter, he knows he plays a part to it and those doubts are once again rising as Alya cried through the phone.

“What do you mean, you got fired?” Nino had to lower down his voice as he walked past a random couple. What was said next caused Nino to physically and mentally take a step back. Is Alya blaming Marinette for what happened? How did that happen? Of course, he knew that Marinette had encountered Ladybug and Chat Noir from time to time, but to be in talking terms with Ladybug? To supposedly brainwash her about Lila. Nothing was making sense to him. No, the only way to make sense of things is to talk to Ladybug about what happened. Yeah, that’s what he’ll do.

Nino looked up into the sky wondering how he would start the search to look for Ladybug when he saw her swinging by. She is probably looking for a place to power down before her own timer goes off. Lucky for him, the street is clear, and no one was around to hear him shout out for her. “Ladybug!”  

For her own part, Ladybug did take a pause to land in front of a randomly closed storefront before she turned around to the person that called out her name. From what he could see from his spot, Nino could see that Ladybug is trying really hard to not cry and putting up a strong front. “Is something wrong? Another Akuma attack?”

“No, no, nothing like that.” Nino measured his steps when he walked up to her. “Could we talk?”

“We are talking right now.” Ladybug pointed out.

“As Nino… not as…” Nino trailed off, he had reached up to pull on his cap to make a certain point with her. “To not raise suspicion. I just want to talk about is all.”

Ladybug looked away from Nino, chewing on her bottom lip wondering if she should talk to him. Then she remembered her plan and promise. She has yet to give Nino his own second chance. His own second chance is not connected to Alya’s own decisions, he is own person and thus, she needed to know where he stood in all this massive mess. With that in mind…

“We’ll talk during patrol tonight.”

---

“Does anyone bother to ask me about Lila? No one does! Alya… oh, Alya…” Ladybug does not know what got into her when she started to tell Carapace everything, well almost everything, on what has been happening to her. Mainly going over how Lila’s lies have been affecting her. She could later chalk it up to the fact that she and Nino were once close friends before life got the better of them. That and she really wanted to get it off her chest that is not Tikki. There are so many cookies she could bribe the little kwami so that she would not do something her own self. “She claims to be a good reporter who always verifies her sources, she never bothered to ask me if her supposed reports are true? No. She does not. Everything Lila has ever said about me is…”

Carapace rubbed his forehead as he took in Ladybug’s words. Oh, he should have seen this coming. He should have seen this coming from who knows how long ago. From the way Ladybug is describing Alya, it makes his girlfriend sound like Lady Wifi. Someone that will stop at nothing to update the Ladyblog with the next best thing, without even caring on how she gets the information.

“To top it all off… Lila had nearly caused me-Marinette to get Akumatized.” Ladybug huddled into herself, whispering out the word more to herself than to Carapace.

“What?” Carapace could not hide his shock at the news that he didn’t even take note of Ladybug’s slight slip up. “Marinette nearly got Akumatized? When? How? Is she okay?”

Ladybug looked away from Carapace in favor to look out into the city. They ended up on some random rooftop that overlooked the city. “At this point, it is hard to say. She confided to me what Lila has been saying and doing against her.”

“What has she been doing against Marinette?” Carapace asked from his spot on the roof. He knew he should not allow his emotions to get the best of him. That would only invite Hawkmoth to bring in more trouble whenever it is not necessary. “Ladybug, what has Lila been doing against Marinette?”

“…It’s not my story to say, I’m sorry. If you want to know more, you have to ask Marinette yourself.”

---

Marinette groaned into her hands as she paced around her room. She really messed up tonight. Really messed up. She said faaar too much to Carap-no, to Nino. She said far too much to Nino about what has been happening to her.

What if he did not believe her?

What if he will once again get entrap by Lila’s lies?

What if-

Tikki, for her own part, could only shake her head as she had her fill with cookies. She felt bad for Marinette but knew that what was said could not be undone. At least she did not stop Nino from continuing his work as a Miraculous Wieldier at this point. Maybe there is still some hope for him? Time will tell at this point.

Marinette’s phone rang, causing the teen to trip over her own two feet. She quickly went over to her desk where she was charging her phone to see an incoming call… from Alya.

Taking in a deep breath, she answered the call and waited for whatever Alya wanted to complain about this time.

“NINO BROKE UP WITH ME BECAUSE OF YOU!!!!”

Marinette pulled her phone away from her ear to see who exactly she is talking to. Once seeing it is Alya that is calling her, she put the phone up to her ear once more. Alya continued with her yelling on with blaming her now former best friend onto why she was blaming her for the breakup. All of which is a load of bull. Lots of it.

“Alya… Alya… Alya…” Marinette began to lose her patience with the girl on the other line. It got to the point she simply allowed Alya to scream while Marinette pulled up her messenger app to text Sabrina.

Bugaboo2: Alya and Nino just broke up. She’s blaming me because of it.

Little-Miss-Understood: I know, she created a group chat to ‘discuss’ about it with all the girls minus you. Luckily for you, Rose once witnessed them arguing about one thing or another ever since Lila came into the picture. She believes that it was something that was bound to happen is Alya is looking for any excuse to blame anyone but herself.

Bugaboo2: Really? Rose…?

Little-Miss-Understood: I may or may not have something to do with that…. Did you have anything to do with the breakup? Just wondering.

Bugaboo2: I…. I’ll text you later. Alya is losing her voice.

Little-Miss-Understood: She’s calling you?

Bugaboo2: More like screaming.

Little-Miss-Understood: Please tell me you are recording this.

Bugaboo2: What do you take me for? I’ll send you a copy late tonight. Plus, depending on how tonight goes, I may have gained a friend back.

Little-Miss-Understood: Keep me informed.

Marinette closed the app before she put the phone by her ear once more. “Are you done?”

“What the hell does that supposed to mean!!!!”

“I haven’t talked to Nino in weeks. Weeks.” Marinette didn’t bother to hold back a hiss. “Every time I’ve ever seen him is when he’s spending time together with you or Adrien. I never could even say hi to him before you drag him to who knows what. Stop blaming me for something that is completely out of my control. Maybe you’d spend less time gossiping with Lila, you would have seen the massive train wreck that’s coming your way.”

Without even waiting for a response, Marinette hung up on Alya. She was so tempted in throwing her phone against the wall in frustration but the last time she did that, she almost hit Tikki. That was the last time she ever threw anything in her room. Along with having to make several trips down into the bakery to grab cookies Tikki and many, many apologies afterward. Yeah… not her greatest moments to date.

Marinette was about to put her phone back to charge when another call was coming in. Muttered under her breath, wondering who is calling her this time. Her eyebrows shot up when she saw it was Nino who is calling her. Looking over at Tikki, who had by now taken refuge somewhere under the bed, peaked under the covers to motion her to pick up on the call when she saw Marinette’s look of complete distress.

Answering the call made Marinette wince as silence was the only thing she heard. “Hello…? Nino?”

“I take it Alya called you?” Nino asked from the other side of the line.

Oh, she is going to need to sit down for this. “I did. She is blaming me because you two broke up. What happened?”

“I… I need… How do I say this…?”

Marinette could tell that Nino is struggling with whatever he wanted to say with her by a massive long shot. There was a long pause between them. It wasn’t awkward or felt completely out of place. It was just giving someone enough time to gather their thoughts before they say what was needed to be said.

“How was your day today? How are you feeling?” Nino asked.

Marinette could hear Nino cursing at himself for not saying what he actually wanted to say. “I no longer have a best friend; she thinks I brainwashed her now ex-boyfriend and is not talking crap about me to someone that threatened me… yeah. Not so good.”

Pause…

“Could we meet tomorrow? I don’t want to say I’m sorry through the phone, I rather say it in person.”

“You just said, ‘I’m sorry’ just right now and I accept your apology.”

“Marinette… I swear you’re too good of a person for any of us. I’m serious. I want to hear your side of what’s been going on without anyone interfering.”

“Promise not to judge or jump to conclusions?”

“I’ll listen. I’ve been told I’m a great listener.”

“Alright. Tomorrow.” Marinette agreed before she hung up. She looked up at her ceiling, wondering who she is going to face Nino tomorrow. Lucky for them, tomorrow is a Sunday and classes. Or maybe that’s a bad thing… no, it’s good. The last thing she wants is to face Alya tomorrow for something that might as well be her own doing.

Marinette could not help shaking her head at the thought. She’s going to have to talk to Nino about the breakup tomorrow. To see what happened and what broke the camel’s back on their relationship. She wanted to feel bad but at the same time, she does not feel bad about what happened. At now she could honestly say, she possibly gained back a friend that is more than willing to stand by her side during this tiring time.

[coffeecomicsgalore]

25 Days of Adrien (+6 of Marinette)

Part of the MLHolidays2k19 writing prompt.

Ao3

Chapter 26 – Snowball Fight

Adrien excused himself to the bathroom to catch his breath. He leaned over the sink and turned on the faucet to drown out his haggard breathing. Plagg zipped out of his overshirt and stared at his chosen as he hovered to the side. After a few moments, Adrien looked up to the mirror to view his face. “My father apologizing wasn’t a dream, right Plagg?”

The kwami looked over to Adrien and nodded. “Trust me kid, I’m just as shocked as you are. But I would stay weary. Who knows why he’s acting like this.”

Adrien stared at himself. “I know. I’m just waiting for him to say something that would make this all seem real. I just hoped for so long that now I wasn’t expecting it to really happen.”

“If you ask me, he talked fondly about pigtails. You should really thank her for his behavior change.”

The little god was right. His father spoke highly of Marinette. He admitted that her presence brought so much good in this house – a light, in his words. Marinette’s actions that day sparked his grinch-like heart to grow three sizes this year. He was moved by her fondness that he went as far as apologizing to Adrien for his inexcusable nonsense of their deteriorating relationship.

She did that, and in her own miraculous way, she brought them together.

Marinette, in and out of the suit, was a treasure. Everywhere she went she brought the light. She cared for everyone, even for Lila and Chloe (sparsely, of course), but she deserved so much for everything she has done.

“Meeting Marinette was the best day of my life. I’ve known that since the moment I fell in love with her. Twice, even!” He turned to Plagg. “She even made the most impossible thing possible. Even though it’s still early to consider it possible, but the fact that he is out there speaking to both of us, laughing, and smiling? I don’t know how I could ever repay her.”

“You love her, right?” Adrien nodded at Plagg’s question. He barrel-rolled in the air as he placed his paws behind his head. “Prove it to her.”

A puzzling look overtook Adrien’s face as he pondered over the statement. Marinette deserved the world. Being with her made everything in his life so much better. The last time he remembered being this happy was when his mom was around. Becoming Chat Noir made his life amazing, but he still had many moments of sadness and disappointment, especially when it came to missed opportunities with his friends. His friends made him happy, but Marinette... Marinette. She magnified those happy moments every single time. Whether it was when she was Ladybug or herself, those moments with her always made him the happiest.

A smile pressed his lips. “Plagg. I never want to let her go. Like ever. She is the best thing to come into my life. I’ve already told her that I don’t want to have a future if it isn’t with her. I can’t imagine my life without her. She makes me so happy. She makes me feel so loved. I love her so much I could shout it from the rooftops!” The lovesick grin and softness in his eyes only made Plagg smile, even if he wasn’t a fan of all the mushiness.

“So, what are you going to do about it, kid?”

“I’m going to ask her to marry me. Not right now. Not today. It’s got to be perfect. I know we’re 18, but we’ll be moving in together this summer. We don’t have to get married right now. We can finish university first.” He started pacing the bathroom. “We don’t have to move that fast. I just want her to know that I’m serious about us and about our future. I want to one day have a home, have our three kids that she always talks about, maybe get a cat and also get a hamster that she wanted to name-”

A knock on the door interrupted his ramblings.  

“Adrien? Sweetie? Are you okay? You’ve been in there a while. I just want to make sure you aren’t having a panic attack over everything today.”

Adrien looked at the door and flustered, shutting the water off sheepishly. “Yeah, I’m okay.” He opened the door to see Marinette’s concerned eyes. Goodness, she’s stunning. He rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah, I started panicking a bit. It’s all a little too much to take in at once. I’m not used to his affectionate behavior.”

Marinette took a step forward and placed a loving hand on his bicep, rubbing soothing circles to it. “Do you want to take a break and take a walk in the courtyard? I haven’t said Merry Christmas to your mother’s monument yet.”

Adrien nodded and grasped her hand, guiding them both to the coat closet to grab their winter gear.

The fresh air helped clear Adrien’s mind. Marinette’s hand was in the crook of his elbow while his own hands were deep within his pockets to keep warm. She nuzzled her nose into his shoulder and spoke softly about the conversations that had continued when Adrien stepped away. Adrien smiled at what was said, and agreed when Marinette admitted that Nathalie had an awfully cute giggle.

When they stood in front of the monument, Marinette smiled before wishing the late Agreste a heartfelt Merry Christmas. It was something Marinette remembered Adrien doing during her birthday, his birthday, and the anniversary of her death, so she knew he would have done this on Christmas too.  

The look of longing in his face only confirmed that she was correct in her thinking. Doing this for him only warmed her heart. He leaned down and kissed the top of her head. “Marinette, you are seriously amazing. How did I get so lucky to deserve someone as wonderful as you?”

“Being you is lucky enough. You deserve the world.”

“Well, you know black cats are unlucky, and being the wielder of destruction only adds to the bad luck. But you, my everyday ladybug, are my lady luck. So, I am lucky to have picked the luckiest lady of all.”

Marinette squinted her eyes at his pun-filled statement and pursed her lips in frustration.  She let go of his arm and crossed her arms across her chest. “Is that so. Well, maybe you aren’t that lucky at all.”

Adrien shrugged his shoulders and turned away from her. “Hey, I only speak the truth.”

“Is that so?” She said slowly.

“Yep, and I will always- humph!” Adrien was caught with a surprise snowball to the back of his head. “Oh, this is war!” He shouted.

Quickly, Adrien scooped up a handful of packed snow and chucked it at the bluenette. She dodged at the last second before throwing her already made snowball at his chest. She laughed at his mock-hurt of being hit that she didn’t see the incoming snowball that landed in her face. She was stunned, but decided that she needed to charge in his direction, scooping up another handful of snow in the process.  

Adrien laughed at her determination and bolted to the left, bobbing and weaving to help deter her good aim. He scooped another handful of snow and threw it over his shoulder, missing Marinette by a few centimeters. She took the opportunity and threw not one, not two, but three packed snowballs that were hidden in the shelf she made with her arm against her chest, hitting Adrien in the chest, back, and face with rapid fire.

His Chat Noir was showing. He feigned being shot, dropping to his knees before falling face first into a pile of snow. Still laying there, he propped his arm up, waving his finger around like a makeshift flag surrendering to the opposing team.

Marinette lifted her arms in the air and ran around him in excitement over the win. She was channeling her inner Kim when he competed and won against Alix.

Adrien got up and dusted the snow off his clothes before bowing to the champion. “To the winner.”

“Thank you, thank you.” Marinette said as she curtsied to him. “And what is my prize for winning?” She teased.

Adrien smirked. “This.” He picked her up and spun her around, landing a passionate kiss to her lips. Once they parted, she smiled at the reward. “And a mug of hot cocoa.” Marinette nodded excitedly in agreement.

He grabbed her hand. “Come on. Let’s get back inside.”

[thescarletofarose]

The Consequences of His Actions

Chapter Seven

Adrien took long gulps from the water bottle in his hand, water strickling down the side of his mouth. He pulled away with a satisfied sigh and swiped his hand across his mouth. A movement out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. Adrien turned and spotted Marinette sitting down on a bench across the park. She looked his way and seeing that she had been spotted, waved. Adrien smiled and returned the greeting. He turned back to his photographer, Vincent, who was inspecting the recently taken pictures. 

“What do you think?” Adrien asked.

Vincent rubbed his chin in thought, nodding as if agreeing with himself. His voice was serious when he responded, “Adrien, these photos are like watching a swan dive into the clear water for the first time on a hot day.”

Adrien scratched the back of his head, his brow scrunched in confusion. “I can never tell if you’re complimenting or critiquing me.”

Vincent spread his arms out wide, punctuating each work with an exaggerated flourish. “Graceful. Beautiful. Refreshing!”

Pink tinted Adrien’s cheeks. “Thank you. Will that be all for today?”

Vincent nodded his head, waving his hand absentmindedly, already invested in the next step of his career. Adrien said goodbye and made his way to Marinette. She was doodling in a journal when he arrived. She had not yet noticed his presence; all of her concentration on the drawing in her hands. Adrien snuck a peek over her shoulder and saw that it was an outfit: a pair pants, a striped shirt, and a beret to complete the look. 

“Another one of your designs?” He softly asked.

Marinette jumped up at the sound of his voice and the book flew from her hands. She juggled it in the air for a couple seconds before successfully catching it. 

“Adrien,” she exclaimed, her face bright red, “s-sorry, I didn’t see you there. All finished with the photoshoot?”

Adrien chuckled and picked up her pencil from the ground. “Yeah. Vincent seems pretty satisfied with the pictures he took today. I hope you didn’t have to wait long.”

“Not at all! I got here only a few minutes before you–” Marinette said, accepting the pencil. Their fingers slightly brushed together. The brief contact reminded both of them why they were there and the conversation from yesterday. Simultaneously, their faces reddened, “before you arrived.”

Marinette bit her lip and ducked her head as Adrien cleared his throat. A boisterous and joy-filled voice filled the air, reaching the ears of the two. Stationed across the park and drawing people from all over was the famous Parisian ice cream cart of Andre Glacier. Adrien glanced at Marinette, a smile spreading over his face. “Marinette, let’s get some ice cream from Andre.”

Marinette had the chance to nod her head before Adrien grabbed her hand and ran to the beloved vendor. They both stopped in front of the cart, and Andre greeted them warmly, his eyes crinkling.

“Marinette and Adrien, are you here to enjoy some of Andre’s ice cream today?” 

“Of course,” Marinette replied. “It’s the best ice cream in all of Paris.”

Andre turned around and immediately began scooping some ice cream, explaining the flavors as he moved. “Blackberry and peppermint, an explosive mix–that’s a fact. But often times, it’s the opposites that attract.”

Adrien accepted the ice cream, immediately taking a small bite. The flavors did indeed contrast, but like Andre said, they exploded with a delicious combination. He licked his lips. “It’s perfect.”

Marinette rubbed her cheek, feeling a familiar burn. They waved goodbye to Andre and walked over to a nearby bench. Adrien offered her the other spoon, and the two began to happily eat away at their desert. 

“Andre’s ice cream is the best,” Adrien said.

“It really is, and they say that it’s magical ice cream.” 

“I’ve heard that too.”

“Do you believe it’s magical?” Marinette asked quietly, scooping another bite.

Adrien looked at Marinette. She was nibbling on her spoon, unaware of his stare, and reclined back on one arm. The wind blew strands of hair into her face, and she unconsciously swiped them behind her ear. She turned for another bite and met Adrien’s gaze. His breath hitched, and a familiar voice sang in the back of his mind: blackberry for her hair and blueberry just like her sky blue stare. Adrien gulped and turned away, muttering, “I think so.”

Adrien suddenly felt the need to change the subject. “So,” he started, clearing his throat, “what’s your favorite color?”

Marinette giggled causing Adrien to quirk his eyebrow in bewilderment. Marinette saw his confusion and shook her head.

��Nothing. The question just caught me off guard.”

Adrien ran a hand threw his hair and jokingly asked, “Is it so strange to want to get to know someone?”

Marinette softly smiled. “Not at all. Pink. Are you a dog or cat person?”

“Cat.” Marinette made a face as she offered him the cone. Adrien chuckled and held up a hand in refusal. Marinette began nibbling on the dry wafer as he asked, “I’m guessing that you’re a dog person?”

“No,” Marinette said, shaking her head. She looked Adrien in the eye and said with complete seriousness, “I’m a hamster person.”

“That wasn’t even an option! If we’re going with favorites, sure, but you asked cat or dog.”

Marinette shrugged. “It can’t be helped.”

Adrien sighed and leaned back. A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he asked, “Then can you at least tell me why both are so awful that you can’t even choose one?”

“They aren’t awful.” Marinette rolled her eyes. “Dogs are cute and loving, but I can’t see myself ever having one. Cats…”

Marinette stopped eating. An image of her black cat, crime-fighting partner flashed in her mind. His recent behavior towards her counterpart confused Marinette. Ever since Hawk Moth’s downfall things haven’t been smooth between them. Figuring Chat Noir was stressed about losing the Butterfly Miraculous as well, Marinette had wanted to talk to him about it after the attack from Ananta Haine, but he left before she could try. She wasn’t sure why, but it felt as if Chat Noir was blaming her. For what, she didn’t know. Marinette sighed and set the cone to the side. “Cats, I just don’t understand them.”

Adrien instantly picked up on Marinette’s mood change. She seemed to deflate and had a troubled expression. He gingerly placed a hand on her shoulder. “Marinette, are you okay?”

Marinette sat up, realizing she had gotten carried away with her thoughts. Embarrassed, she quickly stammers out, “Y-yeah, I was just… thinking… that yesterday sure was crazy, right?”

“It was definitely eventful.” 

“I’ve never seen Chloe act that way before,” Marinette carried on, relieved that he was going along with the subject change. “She clung to you and begged you to stay friends with her. Do you know why she did that?”

Adrien looked down at his hands. He knew exactly why, and it wasn’t just her. “Kagami too.”

“What?”

Adrien blushed, realizing he had said that out loud. “Er, nothing,” he covered, “I think Lila being akumatized was more of a shock. She appeared to be in a good mood when I left the classroom. Do you know what happened?”

Marinette nervously laughed and rubbed the back of her neck. “Really? I don’t recall. It all just happened so fast, you know?” 

Marinette bit her lip and looked away. She said softly, “Actually, that’s a lie. I do know because… I’m the reason.”

Marinette paused, waiting for Adrien to express shock or anger. He didn’t say anything, allowing her to collect her thoughts. Adrien knew Lila and Marinette didn’t get along, so he patiently waited for her to continue, knowing that saying anything would just put her on the defense.

“Lila,” Marinette resumed, “like everyone else, knew you’re hurting. However, she seemed to think she could take advantage of that to climb higher in society. Something about your image.”

Adrien stiffened, realizing that Lila had been talking about the same thing as his mother. A ball formed in his stomach as it occurred to him that other people might approach him for the same reason. There were only a few options an influential like his could take, so naturally anyone would take the chance.

“I couldn’t stand the thought of her talking about you like that.”

Adrien blinked. Marinette’s hand were clenched and though she was looking down, he could clearly see the frustration on her face.

“You’re a human being too,” she said. The anger she felt from her conversation with Lila returned, and she could feel tears prick at the corner of her eyes, “and you’re in pain. For someone to want to take advantage of that is just wrong!”

The ball in Adrien’s stomach instantly dissipated as he pulled Marinette into a hug. She squeaked in surprise as his arms wrapped her in a warm embrace. Adrien held her tight, overwhelmed with an emotion he could only describe as appreciation. Her genuine kindness seemed reached into his soul and instantly soothed him, making him forget about all of his problems. Marinette was gentle, honest, and trusting. Being around her left him refreshed and happy. To him, she was a dear friend that he neve wanted to lose. Adrien frowned. No, that wasn’t right. To him, Marinette was– 

“A-adrien?”

Marinette’s timid voice jerked him out of his thoughts, and reality and reason slammed into him. Adrien pushed her back and turned away, unable to look her in the eyes at the moment. His face was hot, and he knew it was at its reddest. 

“S-sorry,” he forced out.

Marinette shook her head, not sure how to respond to the sudden embrace. Her heart was racing and her mind was rejoicing, but her body could only sit there in stunned silence. Adrien glanced back, worried as to why she hadn’t responded. They made eye contact and Marinette blurted out, “I liked it!”

Silence filled the air, and the two became acutely aware of the public around them. A gust of wind blew and kicked up fallen leaves. A child ran holding the string to a kite, screaming in innocent delight. Adrien and Marinette stared at each other, unsure on the best way to proceed. Adrien gulped. “Um, we should–”

“Yes?”

“We should continue.”

Marinette made a strangled noise, and her face turned crimson.

“The questions,” Adrien said quickly, mentally kicking himself. “We should continue the questions.”

Marinette nodded, her mind racing to think of something to ask. Her eyes searched around her, looking for anything that could spur them away from the silence. Her gaze landed on the kid that had run by and traveled up to their parent. 

“Adult,” she said, her brain working to force complete sentences. “What do you want to do after school?”

Adrien took a moment before answering, pondering her question. His cheeks still burned, but they were slowly cooling off as he focused. Finally he admitted, “I’ve never really thought about it.”

“Really? Is it you just don’t know yet?”

Adrien shook his head, a frown gradually forming along his brow. “Father always had me in modelling, so I’ve just assumed that’s what I would do.”

Marinette spoke slow, carefully choosing her words, “Now that your father is… no longer able to… keep you in modelling, you now have the opportunity to think about what you want to do for yourself.”

Adrien soaked in her words. She was right. He now had the freedom to pursue a passion. As long as it didn’t hurt his family’s image, his mother shouldn’t disapprove. A bitter taste developed in his mouth. “I guess that’s something to think about now.”

Marinette was suddenly reminded of how fresh everything was as Adrien’s conduct made it easy to forget. If she wasn’t Ladybug, it would be easy to forget that there was a new threat. Despite the news broadcast about Ananta Haine, the civilians seemed to have returned to their everyday lives (whether it was for obliviousness or just out of desire for a moment of security). Marinette bit her lip. Most people anyways. After losing his father, Adrien Agreste has barely shown his emotions towards the situation. He’s remained calm and collected if not slightly more reserved. 

Marinette reached out, her heart clenching at the thought of how much pain he was repressing, but caught herself before she could grab his hand. She clenched her hand. “Adrien?”

“Yes?” Adrien pulled himself from his thoughts and looked at Marinette. Her eyes were big and sorrowful. 

“A-are you okay?” Marinette asked, scared she was overstepping a line. However she would never forgive herself if she didn’t try and reach out to him. “It’s only been three days since… your father was arrested.”

Adrien visibly stiffened but didn’t say anything. Marinette continued, “I just want to make sure that you’re okay. I-it’s okay to grieve or get angry...”

Marinette strailled off as they both thought back to the night of Hawk Moth’s downfall on the rooftop. Chat Noir’s words hung between them like a wall neither aware was there. 

Adrien sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “To be honest, I don’t know. I’m still thinking about it, and I don’t want to talk about it right now.” He glanced over at Marinette. “But when I do, I’ll be sure to come to you.”

They shared a brief smile before Adrien straightened up. “Right,” he said, “I know you want to be a fashion designer, but what are your plans?”

“I guess just hope to impress someone enough with my designs to get a shot,” Marinette said lightly swinging her feet. “I’ve designed for Jagged Stone, but I don’t know if it will be enough. Alya seems to think that I should start a blog advertising my work.”

Adrien nodded, thinking about his own connections. “That would definitely be helpful. My mother is an actress, so she’s worked on sets with different costume designers. I could see if she can give me a name or two, if you want?”

Marinette beamed up at Adrien, and he absentmindedly put his hand to his chest. 

“That would be amazing! If you did that, I would love you forever.” Marinette blushed slightly and threw her hands up. “Not that I don’t already love you. I mean, I don’t love you. What? Why would I love you? That would just be…”

Marinette nervously laughed as she trailed off before clearing her throat. “I would appreciate that.”

“Oh!” Marinette exclaimed, remembering a past event. “I just remembered that my parents once catered for a movie set.”

“Really? That’s pretty cool, Marinette. Do you know which movie?”

“Unfortunately no. I wasn’t able to go since I was busy with school, and I’ve long since forgotten the name.”

“That’s too bad,” Adrien said. “Speaking of your parents. If you don’t mind me asking, how are they doing? Saturdays must be a busy time for them.”

“They’re doing great. Saturdays are always busy, but we handle them pretty well.” Marinette checked her phone. “Though I should probably go. It’s getting close to rush time.”

Adrien frowned as he stood up. Offering her his hand, he said, “I hope taking you away from them on such a busy day isn’t causing them stress. Can I give you a ride home?”

“I would like that,” Marinette gladly accepted. “However, I wouldn’t worry. I usually get mornings or evenings to myself before helping.”

As the two began walking towards the Agreste car, Marinette pondered aloud, “Now that I think about it, my mother did seem really tired. Last night she even broke a coffee mug, so it’s probably best that I return. It’ll be good for her to get a break.”

“Let’s get you home then. “ Adrien opened the door with a small bow. He said with a smile, “After you.”

Marinette giggled and curtsied before hopping in. They rode the short distance to the bakery in enthusiastic conversation and short bouts of giggles.

“I didn’t know you were such a troublemaker when you were young,” Marinette said after catching her breath. “Though if I had a cousin that looked just like me, I would have probably done the same.”

Adrien smiled fondly at the memory. “Telling you the story makes me miss him and the fun we had. I hope he comes to visit again soon.”

The car stopped and Adrien got out to open the door for Marinette. They stood in front of the entrance, neither wanting to really leave. Marinette brushed a few strands of hair behind her ear. “I had a lot of fun today.”

“I did too.”

“I guess I should head inside.” Marinette gave a small wave and turned to leave. 

“Wait.”

Marinette turned back around as Adrien walked up and gently took her hand. It was small and easily fit in his “Thank you,” he started, “for standing by me, talking to me, all of it. I really appreciate what you’ve done. I appreciate you.”

A blush dusted Marinette’s cheeks, and she softly responded, “I’m just glad I could help.”

“I’ll see you around, Marinette.” Adrien squeezed her hand before leaving. Marinette watched until his car was out of sight, cradling her hand against her heart.

The door dinged her arrival. Her father was behind the counter covered in flour, moving back and forth with various pastries. He looked up when she entered and smiled in relief. 

“Marinette,” he said, “I’m so glad you’re back. I need you help. We have many togo orders that need to be completed, and I’m really behind schedule.”

“Of course, papa,” Marinette said, immediately picking up an apron. “Is maman upstairs?”

Tom balanced two trays on one hand as he maneuvered a third from the oven. “Your mother isn’t here.”

Marinette frowned and took one of the trays out of his hands. “Where is she?”

“She said she had an order she needed to fix, but that was before I opened the bakery.”

Tom finally cleared his hands and took a deep breath. He looked at his daughter. His eyes were tired and full of concern. “She should have been back by now.”

Marinette picked up two piping bags and handed one to her father. “Let’s finish this work first, and then we’ll try to call her. I’m sure she’s fine, papa.”

[nerdasaurus1200]

Burn

Requested by @lenoreofraven. Takes place in her Liladrien AU, and a sequel to Congratulations. In which everyone hates Adrien, Chloe is a bad singer but also great, Cat Noir is rightfully terrified, and Marinette deserves love.

Adrien wanted to kick himself. He couldn’t believe that Marinette had almost gotten akumatized. He almost didn’t want to believe it...but then again, Kagami never lied. But the mere thought of Marinette becoming a supervillain left him with a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. She was too selfless, to sweet. She didn’t deserve to be akumatized. He had to talk to Marinette about this. Maybe he could help her cheer up. “Need I remind you Kagami made it very clear what she’d do to you if she saw you near Marinette?” Plagg warned once he was informed of his holder’s decision. “I need to at least talk to her about this. If something’s wrong, I could help her.” Adrien replied. Plagg muttered something about it being his funeral, but he ignored it when he saw Marinette enter the locker room. “Morning, Marinette!” He said as she closed her locker door. Normally, she would’ve jumped out of her skin but this time she barely acknowledged him. “Listen, I think we should talk.” He tried again. “No. YOU wanna talk to ME about how Lila’s so great and I need to get over my jealousy. Let me guess, Alya sent you?” Marinette snapped, making Adrien flinch a little. He’d never seen her so...curt before. He didn’t exactly know how to feel about it. “No. See, Kagami told me yeste-“ He tried again. “I know what Kagami said. And frankly, I agree with her. But it doesn’t matter. I’m sure you two will be very happy together. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a class to get to and you should start running.” She cut him off. Before he could ask why, someone grabbed him by his shirt and shoved him against the lockers. Once he focused his vision to see who it was, his heart stopped for a moment as he realized he was face to face with Kagami and Queen Bee. “I warned you,” Kagami growled as she drew her sword. “You hold Agreste down, I’ll sting him where it hurts.” Bee sneered, pulling out her trompo. “Girls, come on. He’s not worth it.” Marinette called from the doorway. The girls looked reluctant but obeyed their sister nonetheless. “You got lucky this time, Agreste.” Chloe snapped as the trio walked out. “Oh, that went well.” Plagg snarked. “Maybe I can talk to Luka about it.” Adrien wondered aloud. Later during lunch, Adrien finally managed to find Luka without Lila dragging him off somewhere. “Hi, Luka!” He greeted cheerfully. Luka turned his head to see who was talking to him, but frowned a little and turned back to his guitar when he realized who it was. “Hello, Adrien.” He replied curtly. “I was wondering if you could help me with something. See, Marine-” Adrien began, but Luka cut him off. “Marinette was almost akumatized, I know. Gami told me. You should be glad Hawkmoth didn’t get her. Both Gami and Chlo have had evil songs in their hearts all day because of it. Look, shouldn’t you talk to Mari about this instead of creating a middle man?” He snapped. “I tried, but she brushed me off when I did,” Adrien explained. “Wonder why,” Luka said, but his tone implied he knew exactly why. After school ended, Adrien decided to try to talk to Tom and Sabine. Surely they would let him talk to Marinette. They had always been very welcoming whenever he visited them. However, the look on Tom’s face when she opened the door and saw him was anything but welcoming. Before he could even get a word in, the door was slammed in his face. “Tom’s who was at the door?” He heard Sabine ask. “Nobody important.” Came Tom’s reply. “What do I do, Plagg? None of them will let me talk!” Adrien asked his Kwami later that night. “If they don’t want to talk to you, there’s nothing you can do Adrien,” Plagg replied sternly. “I can’t just do nothing about this,” Adrien replied. “Why not? You've been doing nothing for the past six months, after all. Face it, kid. Nobody in the Dupain-Cheng family wants to talk to Adrien Agreste.” Plagg reminded him. Adrien’s face fell, the suddenly an idea formed in his mind. “You’re right, but they just might want to talk to Cat Noir. Plagg, claws out!” He said. A flash of green light and Cat Noir was suddenly bounding across the rooftops of Paris. He knew he’d reached the Dupain-Cheng bakery when the familiar scent of bread filled his nose. However, something odd was happening on Marinette’s balcony. For some reason, the girls were gathered around a small fire. “She’s seeing the pictures she has of you. She’s searching and scanning for answers in every line for some kind of sign. She thought you were heeerrrs. The world seemed to buuuuuurrrn. BUUUUUUUUURRRRRRN!” Chloe wailed at the top of her lungs, making his ears hurt a little. “Chloe, knock that off. You sound like a dying hamster.” Kagami scolded halfheartedly. “But it’s making Marinette laugh! How long has it been since she smiled this much?” Chloe responded. “Thanks for trying to cheer me up, Chlo. And thanks for coming up with this idea too.” Marinette said quietly. “And what idea would that be, ladies?” Cat Noir asked as he landed on their chimney. “Oh, hey alley cat. We’re just doing a little spring cleaning.” Chloe greeted. Now that he was closer, Cat Noir could see a couple pictures disintegrating in the flames. “By...burning photos?” He asked slowly. “Of this jerk,” Chloe explained, holding one of the unburned pictures for him to see. His heart stopped for a second when he realized the photos they were burning were of him! “Wow, you guys...really have it out for Adrien Agreste, huh?” He asked hesitantly, noticing how big their burn pile was. “Trust me, the little baka deserves it,” Kagami growled as she glared at the photos and tossed more into the fire. “Besides, it was either this or killing him, and I made an oath to never use my Miraculous for evil. No matter how much they deserve it.” Chloe added. Cat Noir couldn’t help but let out a silent gulp. Three of his closest friends in the world now hated his guts, and he had no idea why. “W-what exactly did he do to make you hate him so much?” He asked nervously. Kagami and Chloe looked at each other apprehensively, uncertain if they should say anything. “Girls, why don’t you two go get some croissants for us all to eat? I’ll fill him in.” Marinette said. “But, Mari-” Choe started. “I’ll be fine. Really.” Marinette interrupted. Neither of them seemed to believe her, but they went back inside anyway. 

Cat Noir came down from his perch and sat next to Marinette. “It all started when this girl Lila joined my class. She said she’d been traveling around the world, but that’s completely bogus. She lies with every breath, you see. But for some reason, everyone believes her. I tried to get her to stop lying, but she wouldn’t. She threatened me, said she’d take away all of my friends. I didn’t believe her at first. I thought my friends would never just abandon me for some new girl with a bunch of stories. But...that’s what they did. Luka, Kagami, and Chloe are the only ones who talk to me at school now.” Marinette explained, choking up as she went on. Cat Noir’s stomach sank deeper with each word. Why didn’t Marinette ever tell him Lila threatened her? “You know the worst part? There was only one other person who knew she was lying. Adrien Agreste. And...he told me not to try to expose her. He said as long as we both knew she was a liar, that was enough. She wasn’t hurting anyone; she’d expose herself eventually. But then, he started dating her. He knows she’s a liar, and he still went out with her.” Marinette continued. “This boy...Adrien...is he important to you?” He asked quietly. “I loved him,” Marinette confessed. Cat Noir’s blood ran cold, and he was pretty sure his face was white. WHAT? Marinette LOVED him?! He couldn’t help but notice the past tense, and he felt sicker. His head was spinning. “I was so in love with him, so I did what he said. I fooled myself into thinking he was right. I just stopped trying. He said we were against her together...only to leave me on my own. Funny, huh?” Marinette said, starting to cry. Cat Noir felt his blood begin to boil. Kagami was right; he was complete and utter garbage. No, he was worse than that! “Nothing is funny about that, Marinette.” He said lowly. “What do you mean?” Marinette asked. “Adrien’s an idiot for not seeing that you love him! He doesn’t deserve your feelings, your time! He doesn’t deserve anything from you!” He yelled, startling Marinette. “It’s okay, kitty. I’m moving on from him, one day at a time. If he wants Lila, he can have her. Those liars deserve each other.” Marinette replied sourly. “It’s not just that, Princess. You deserve so much better than an idiot like him. You deserve someone who will do everything in his power to make you happy. Someone who will do something stupid just so he can hear you laugh or see you smile. You belong with someone who will make sure you know he loves you with every fiber of his being!” He declared passionately, holding her shoulders so they were facing each other. “Any ideas, kitty cat?” Marinette joked humorlessly. Cat Noir didn’t know what came over him. He didn’t know if it was because his face was mere inches away from Marinette’s or because he felt guilty for taking her heart and shattering it, but he didn't care. But he made the decision to kiss her. He heard Marinette gasp in shock, and almost pulled away. However, Marinette placed a gentle hand on his cheek, encouraging him. He ran one hand through her hair and placed her other gently on her waist. He could feel her smile into the kiss and sighed with content. As quick as the kiss began, he pulled away from her a little. His heart swelled as he looked into Marinette’s sweet bluebell eyes, staring at him in slight awe. He was about to lean in for another, but he felt someone watching them. He turned his head and nearly had a heart attack when he saw Chloe and Kagami had come back outside and were now staring at them like deer in headlights. “I need to go.” He said suddenly and leaped away into the night. Marinette couldn’t help letting out a small smile as she saw him depart. Maybe...he could be that someone, she thought as she touched her lips. “Oh. My. God! I can’t believe this! My sister and my teammate!” Chloe yelled excitedly. “What the hell?” Kagami whispered. “Ooh, this is so exciting! Wait till Lila hears about THIS! Good luck trying to out-do my sister when she has a SUPERHERO FOR A BOYFRIEND!” Chloe continued. “What the hell?!” Kagami said again, yelling this time. “And I almost forgot the best part! We can rub Adrien’s face in this until the cows come home!” Chloe squealed. “WHAT THE HELL?!” Kagami shouted. Marinette shook her head at her sisters’ antics. “I’m gonna go for a patrol. I’ll be back in a few.” She told them. She transformed and leaped away from her balcony. Suddenly, her bug phone rang. “Hello?” She asked as she answered it. “Ladybug, it’s me. I have a serious problem.” She heard Cat Noir say in a panic.

[miraculousbuebird]

Happy Valentine’s Day

This gift is for the lovely @damelicorne! It’s part of the @mlshipfleet valentine’s day event and I’m so happy to have been involved! I hope you enjoy @damelicorne

Paris, the city of love, welcomed the sun on a Saturday in September. To all, it was a day that was normal, but to two superheroes it was the day they first met. The day was like any other Saturday, but due to Chat Noir not being able to contain his excitement, Parisians had been told that the superheroes would be getting married this month. All Parisians kept an eye out for the wedded two, but each day yielded no hint of the superheroes. Would today be different?

Nino rubbed the sleep from his eyes as his ears were assaulted with fast breathing. He heard his kwami humming softly while Plagg moaned.

“Adrien, calm down kid. You’re ruining my breakfast.”

Wayzz snapped, “Have you no shame? Your wielder is having a panic attack!”

Rolling his eyes, Plagg spoke through a big bite of Camembert, “This is his third one.”

“Adrien? Buddy, are you okay?” Nino prodded, moving closer.

“What if she decides that I’m ugly and she doesn’t want to marry me?” Adrien shouted hysterically.

The other three’s eyebrows rose while Plagg asked, “Are we talking about Marinette? The one who proposed to you?”

Adrien’s eyes widened, “See! She even has a reason! I put her in a horrible position!”

Plagg murmured quietly, “I highly doubt that girl can be forced into anything.”

“I think you need to take a deep breath, Adrien. I highly doubt that anyone thinks you’re ugly.” Nino bit his lip. He shouldn’t laugh at his friend’s turmoil, but the guy was being ridiculous.

Wayzz flew closer to the blond’s face, so close that Adrien went cross-eyed. “Young man, I’ve known the two of you since the day you were chosen. Your lives have been melded and entwined since the moment your fate was decided.Do not worry so. Why don’t you go hop in the raining bath and we will get breakfast ready?”

Smiling softly, Adrien nodded and left for the bathroom. Wayzz turned his eyes on to the other two who began looking anywhere but at him. “You two! He is panicking and it doesn’t help him if others are selfish!”

“Wayzz, Adrien always gets into his head.  Sometimes you just have to support him while telling him he’s too in his head.” Nino replied heading to find his sweater to go downstairs.

Sniffing, Wayzz pointed to the sweater as his weirder shrugged sheepishly. As he did so, his wedding band sparkled. Ah, that’s what I have to ask Plagg.

“Hey Plagg, I was wondering if you’d like to hand me the rings now since you’re the ring bearer and all.” Nino chuckled at the thought of the little Kwami being the ring bearer with nobody knowing that it’s actually him except a few.

Freezing in midair and mid bite, Plagg spoke slowly, “I thought you were the ring bearer?”

Nino’s face drained of color.

_______________________________________________________________________

Across town, the beautiful bride to be took her time in the bath as her best friend, who was very pregnant, got last minute details squared away.

“Marinette, the makeup artist will be here in three hours whereas your hairdo person will be here in two.” Alya scribbled a checkmark next to her tasks as well as made sure the alarms were set on Marinette's phone. Nobody will be late getting the bride made up if Alya could help it. “If they aren’t here, please call me so I can deal with it.”

A dry look greeted her as two Kwamis squealed in excitement at a bubble floating up. “You do know it’s just Juleka and Rose right? They did your wedding.”

“I know! But just in case!”

A soft voice contrasted the previous tone out of the blue, “This isn’t going to be spoiled, right? I deserve one day… right?”

Alya smiles softly, “Of course you do. You deserve the world.” Her smile turned vicious. “And if anyone wants to spoil this day, they will have me to deal with!”

_______________________________________________________________________

“Oh my gosh, Alya is going to kill us. We’ve ruined the wedding!”

“Nino! We can do this! We’ll find the rings, do the vows and eat cake! It’s a foolproof plan.” Plagg responded as he inhaled another slice.

“You don’t understand! Alya is scary enough, but pregnant Alya is a ferocious hamster!”

Wayzz turned his eyes on Nino with disbelief, “Did you just call your mate, a hamster?”

Plagg nodded, “They are ferocious, scary beasts.” Nino began pacing the floor as the Kwamis floated in air before him.

“Okay, okay. I have an idea. Plagg and I will follow his footsteps while Wayzz, you keep Adrien busy. Support him as he gets ready, stuff like that! Deal?”

“As you wish, but I do think it would be better if we just told Adrien.” In response, Plagg and Nino gave him faces contorted in horror. “Or you could just do your plan.” Without another word, he flew into the bathroom to soak up the serene atmosphere, shaking his head the whole way.

Plagg floated up and hid beneath Nino’s cap. “We should start at the venue since that was the last place we were last night.”

Nino nodded, “Good idea. On our way, we’ll have the chef send breakfast up to Adrien.” The two bolted out of the room, shedding their calm demeanors. Adrien’s house wasn’t too far from the event center that served as the venue. Nonetheless, the drive there for Nino took far too long.

In his rush, he didn’t see his wife headed upstairs to check the bridal suite one last time. If he had, he would’ve known to avoid her, but unfortunately it was fate to screw Nino over.

“Alright, Plagg? Where’re the rings at?” Nino whispered. He smiled innocently at a caterer as he passed.

“I think I saw the boxes in the Groom suite.” Plagg quickly flew past, phasing through walls in his hurry to the suite.

Nino sighed, “Hopefully they’re there, but if Adrien wonders where we are, it won’t be too much of a lie. I needed to check the suite anyway.”

The two entered the room and spied the boxes sitting on the table holding snacks. Plagg chuckled, “And you were worried! Some of Tikki’s luck must be rubbing off on me!” Nino ignored him and opened the boxes, and Plagg groaned. “You’re kidding me! Who took the wedding rings?”

A shrill voice interrupted before Nino could respond, and the breath left their lungs fast. “You lost the wedding rings?”

Gulping, Nino named where the scream came from, “Alya.”

_______________________________________________________________________

Marinette waved goodbye to Juleka and Rose who had just finished her hair and makeup. The two arrived at the same time and with a dance that was coordinated, had her ready in no time.. The three arrived at the venue together and Marinette shared the sandwiches that had a lovely note For the Bridal Party before they left to get ready for the event themselves. She smiled softly at the thought of what was finally happening. A piano broke her thoughts as she realized it was her love’s ringtone.

“Adrien? Is everything okay?” She answered, slightly worried the cosmos were against them.

He laughed in response, “It’s fine, Marinette.  I was just calling to see if you were upstairs?”

An eyebrow raised. “Why do you want to know? It’s bad luck to see each other and with the God of Bad Luck around….”  

Silence answered her until her poor kitty softly said, “I just want to be a little close to you…”

“Pick a utility closet and I’ll be there.” Marinette spoke as she tied a robe around herself. If Adrien needed her, she’d be there.

“The one next to my room?”

“I’m on my way.” She wasted no time slipping her flats on and headed downstairs. She found the utility room easily enough and opened the door slightly. “Adrien? If you’re in here, grab my hand.” The warm, slightly calloused hand greeted her and she sighed in peace.

“Marinette? How are you able to make me feel so happy without a word?”

She squeezed his hand three times, I love you. “It’s easy when you’re soul mates. We were fated always.”

Adrien laughed softly, “That’s what Wayzz said… how are you wearing your hair?”

Smirking, Marinette cocked her hip, “Wouldn’t you like to know? I guess you’ll just have to wait!” Adrien wasted no time in squeezing her hand three times amidst his silent laughter. She smiled in relief, knowing that he just needed reassurance she was here to stay.

“I have to head back upstairs to get dressed and ready for some bridal shots. If you need anything, chaton, let me know?” She brought his hand close and kissed the top as she stepped away shutting the door. She leaned against it and felt her partner on the other side.

“I can’t wait to kiss you every day, morning and night. Especially this night… see you later, my Lady.” With that farewell, Marinette stepped away and headed to the stairwell. As she passed the kitchen, she heard a shout about cheese and pregnant hamsters. She didn’t have time to stay and question what in the world was going on though.  She trusted Alya would be able to deal with whatever was going on.

_______________________________________________________________________

Alya was at her wit’s end. After scouring the groom’s suite, they still haven’t found the rings and it was three hours until the wedding. They had sent Plagg to discreetly check to see if the caterers had found them, if someone had left them in a room or if he could hear anyone else mentioning the rings. While he did that, Nino was sent to check the garbages. Two hours passed when Alya got the notification that Marinette was on her way over with Juleka and Rose when Nino came in covered in grime.

“You need to take a shower. There’s a shower in the bathroom next door to the bridal suite! Don’t let Marinette see you, do you understand? I’m going to go find Plagg.” Alya pinched her nose as she side-eyed Nino and vacated the room. She was too pregnant for this. “Now, if I was mischief incarnate, where would I be?” Her answer came from a thud in the kitchens. Alya froze because she remembered Marinette groaning that they had to have a cheese buffet for Plagg for when everybody left.

She knew as she looked upon piles of empty plates, she would become known as the extinguisher of the Kwami known as Plagg.

Trixx popped out from behind her as he whistled. “Plagg, you’ve really done it now.”

The only response from Plagg was a burp as Alya began to scream.

Nino heard Alya scream as he jumped off the last steps of the stairs, so he was already moving. To his delight, no danger was occurring except for the life of Plagg. Alya was trying to reach for the Kwami while Plagg held off growling Trixx.

“What’s going on?” Nino asked which was the wrong question.

“Your pregnant hamster is trying to kill me!” Plagg screamed, phasing through Nino’s hat. The man felt Plagg sigh in relief as he laid down, but another force had phased through and Trixx threw the both of them and the hat to the ground.

“How dare you call my wielder a hamster?” Trixx howled.

“Nino did it first!”

Alya’s stormy eyes turned slowly to Nino and he felt the daggers inTrixx’s eyes. Somehow, his savior came in the form of Tikki.

“What is going on down here?” Tikki frowned. Plagg flew to her and hid behind her, trembling.

“They’re trying to kill me, Sweets!”

“I told you not to call me that!” Tikki glared. She took in the sights of Alya and Trixx, hair raised, the empty platters and Nino paling with each second. “Alya, Marinette knew that Plagg might’ve done this, so there’s extra cheese in the deep fridge. Trixx and I will start sorting that out. Nino, you need to go help Adrien get ready. Luka is making sure the reception hall is perfect and the instruments are tuned. Alya, Marinette is finishing getting ready and the photos will start soon. Why don’t you head upstairs? Nino, please take Plagg with you.” Tikki began to head to the fridge when she realized nobody was following through with her orders. If she had eyebrows, they would be raised. “What am I missing?”

After Alya and Nino explained everything, Tikki was sure she would be having a headache. “We have two hours until we have to begin lining up, but Alya is needed now. Plagg, you and Wayzz will find the wedding rings unless you want to face Marinette.” Plagg gulped, but quickly left to find the wiser Kwami. “Everybody else, go do what you need to.” The two humans bolted and left the two Kwamis alone. Trixx and Tikki began the tedious task of placing the cheese on the platters again, hoping that nobody notices the change. As the caterers came in to check on the food, only one seemed a little off that the cheddar was in place of the Brie.

Tikki phased quickly up to the bridal suite to see how things were going there. Trixx had somehow beaten her there, but he just smiled as he hid in Alya’s mermaid tail hair. Tikki found her eyes growing moist as Marinette stood in front of the mirror adjusting the gown. Their eyes met and Marinette smiled in a language Tikki understood. She flew down and landed on Marinette’s cupped hands.

Tikki cried in complete happiness, “You look stunning, Marinette!” In response, Marinette brought Tikki up to give her a gentle kiss on the head.

“Today is thanks to you, Tikki. And of course, Master Fu.”

Shaking her head, Tikki wiped tears away. “No, Marinette. You two were fated long before the miraculous even came into your lives.” Marinette’s eyes filled with tears, but a strong, choked up voice interrupted the conversation.

“Both of you, stop it! You’ll ruin the makeup!” Alya blew into a tissue. “Now, I’m going to go ensure that everybody is lining up. You’re getting married in thirty-five minutes!” Alya left the room, patting her head to make sure Trixx was with her as she descended the stairs. As she got to the bottom, she saw Chloe and Luka standing together. A pin in Chloe’s teeth as she straightened the boutonnière, and she pinned it with expertise.

“Alya!” Luka greeted her as she finally made it to the end of the stairs. Chloe’s eyes showed worry as she watched Alya hobble.

Alya waved her worry away. “I’m fine, Chloe. Have you seen Nino?”

Chloe snorted as Luka bit his lip to keep from laughing, “He’s yelling at the Kwamis where the groomsmen are. They’re just waiting for Adrien to join them.”

Groaning, Alya shuffled over, throwing open the door and eyeing the human. “Did you find them?”

Plagg shrank back while Wayzz shook his head mournfully. Nino began to hit the wall with his forehead.

“Find what?” Chloe interrupted. Luka pulled Nino away from the wall and placed the distressed guy in a chair.

“Plagg lost the wedding rings.” Nino moaned.

“I didn’t lose the wedding rings!” Plagg spluttered. “You did!”

“One of you did and now I have to tell Marinette that we have to put her wedding on hold!” Alya turned to Chloe who had a thoughtful frown on her face. “What are you thinking, Chloe?”

“Well, did you ask Adrien?”

“Ask Adrien what?” The blond professor questioned as he entered the room, fixing his cuff links.

Nino looked wide-eyed and panicky, but Chloe asked before anyone could stop her. “Where are the wedding rings?”

Adrien froze and everybody held their breath in waiting for him to explode and panic. Instead, he raised an eyebrow in question, “In my pocket. Why?”

At that, the room exploded. Alya screaming, Trixx howling with laughter, Nino and Plagg blaming each other and Chloe and Luka as witnesses.

“Woah!” Adrien shouted. “What is the problem? I told you last night that between Plagg and Trixx, I didn’t trust anybody but me with them.”

Alya glared at everyone and grabbed Chloe. “I’m done with you all. I can’t believe this.”

Plagg murmured softly, “Angry hamster.” Just as Trixx tackled him in midair.

Alya and Chloe had twenty minutes left, so the two greeted guests walking in. By the time the last guests began to trickle in, Marinette and her father came out. The large man sniffled a couple of times and Chloe handed him her handkerchief with a small grin. He nodded in thanks and the music began to play. Before either girl could walk in, Marinette grabbed their hands and squeezed.

“Thank you both for standing with me today.”

Chloe and Alya both nodded smiling brightly although fighting tears and the three girls shared a hug before Chloe left to enter the hall. Then it was Alya’s turn, at the last second she blew a kiss to Marinette who giggled as Alya headed down the aisle.Then as the crescendo began, Marinette took a deep breath and headed towards her future. She recognized people from collège, university and work from both of their lives, but as soon as she made eye contact with Adrien, everything faded away. Her heart began to hammer in excitement to finally be married to him.

As her father gave her hand to Adrien’s in blessing, she squeezed three times and her father smiled largely at her as he backed away to sit with her mother. Adrien’s hand was warm, and his nervousness was all there. It made no difference to her. She grinned, repeated the vows and next thing she knew, Adrien was smiling as he kissed her. Their wedding was over and she could finally breathe. Nothing ruined her day.

The priest exclaimed, “I now present, Mr. and Mrs. Dupain-Cheng!”

As husband and wife left the room with cheers following them out, a group of Kwamis hid in a nearby planter. Plagg, Tikki, Wayzz, Pollen and Trixx all watched as the humans began to trickle out while a few stayed by the altar near the kwamiis.

Tikki sighed in content, “I can’t wait for the vow renewal.”

Pollen nodded excitedly, but the other Kwamis shared a stricken, panicked face.

Overhearing the Kwamis’ conversation, Nino told Alya quietly that they would be eloping for their vow renewal. Alya nodded as she slipped out of her shoes and wished she could drink the ills of the day away. She held her bag open for the kwamiis to dart in as they followed the newly wedded to the reception hall.

That night, Parisians were greeted to the sight of  Ladybug and Chat Noir darting across rooftops each holding a “Just Married” sign. The two shared a kiss for the first time as married superheroes on the eiffel tower, but definitely not the last.

fin.

[disorganizedkitten]

A day in the life of- Mafia AU

Hello @luckywritess! I was/am your Secret Santa this year (Last year?) from the @mlsecretsanta exchange! I’m sorry it’s so late!  I took one of your listed AUs and ran with it, I hope you enjoy! There will be at least three more chapters of this, exploring other characters’ lives in the same Universe.  Also on AO3!

Chapter one-Paon Vigilant

“No.”

“Maybe you should reconsider.” Renée’s comment was punctuated with the distinct sound of a gun cocking.

Paon Vigilant closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. “I already gave you my answer. It would be best for you and Lansky to accept that.”

Renée moved moved the gun closer to her head, a silent reinforcement of the threat.

Paon gave herself a moment, a part of her wishing some people understood the meaning of the word ‘No’, and the rest wishing it would be a smooth enough attack for her to grab her knifes at this angle, and then she moved.

The gun was out of Renée’s hand in a second, two tops. Another second to position the gun in her hand as she spun, kicking Lansky in the same motion.

The first gunshot echoed through the room, loud enough and long enough that the second seemed to merely be an extension of the noise. Two thuds, and Paon just needed to wait for her ears to stop ringing.

“I’m fine.” She called to her partner, wanting a moment to breathe in the familiar scent of fresh blood as she cleared her head.

Paon nodded to herself, and stepped over the two bodies she had just dropped, heading towards the door. Honestly, these guys thought she would take a bribe like that in the first place? Idiots. If they knew enough of her to try to bargain with the Miraculous Syndicate through her, they should have known she was smarter than to take such an imbalanced bargain.

It was a shame Renée had pulled a gun on her, knives were much more in her element.

Her partner for the day, The Mime, was waiting for her in the hall, raising a dark eyebrow when she left alone. Paon shook her head, moving her left hand across her neck while tapping her new gun against her leg with her right. He had probably heard the entire commotion, but it was still good to communicate. Mime nodded, adjusting his bowler hat before starting down the hall.

Paon followed Mime towards the door, fishing her burner cell out of her pocket as she did so. She tapped the buttons on the screen, dialing the familiar number of her husband and partner in crime, Papillon.

It didn’t even finish one set of dial tone before the line came live. “How’s it going, Lovebird?”

“Scenario three, I’m afraid,” Paon said, sighing as she dropped the now-cooled gun into her knife pouch.

“Aw. I was really hoping they’d be good on their word. Are you and Mime on your way back?”

“Leaving as we speak. Is someone waiting outside?”

“Robustus should still have a car there,” Papillion answered without hesitation. “Were you sick again this morning?”

“Butterfly, my love, can we discuss my health somewhere we won’t be overheard?” Paon asked, adjusting her pace so she was passing Mime.

“Of course,” Papillon agreed. “According to Catalyst you can’t come home quite yet though. Are you and Mime still okay with vetting Mr. Pigeon in half an hour?”

Paon Vigilant turned to Mime as she reached the next doorway, leaning against the bar so she could sign the question.

‘You still good with going to vett Mr. Birdy?’

‘I���m not due for my daughter’s play until three.’ He replied, the smile at the thought of his daughter obscuring the teardrops under his eyes.

‘Alright. Robustus’ Or Helicopter with eyes, as was his literal sign name, ‘should be waiting for us outside.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’ Mime saluted.

Paon pulled herself upright and nodded into her phone. “Yeah, we’re still on.”

“Perfect!” Papillon cried. Paon could hear his smile, and could imagine well enough the happy movement on the other side of the phone. He had been very optimistic about this possible ally, and was seemingly sure that he would be on their side.

Paon smiled back, sliding her daggers into her previously unoccupied hand as she pushed the door enough to actually open it. She spun, checking the alleyway outside, and relaxed a little once it proved to be clear.

“Is Befana going to pick us up from Mr. Pigeon’s meeting place?” Paon questioned, making her way down the alley towards the street.

“She’s overseeing the kids’ practices since Zombizou was needed in the field today,” Papillon answered nonchalantly.

“Well at least there’s someone there making sure they all behave themselves. And she’s there for tech support too I assume?”

“Actually, a good amount of the adults are overseeing that for us since we have to be out today.”

“I’m glad they’re not being left alone for it.” Paon reached the edge of the alleyway, and scanned the road in front of her. “Where’s the ride Robustus sent?”

“Down the road, nearer to the river.”

“Perfect, thank you, Love.” Paon spun again and relayed the message to Mime. He tipped his hat at her, gesturing for her to lead the way. She did so gracefully, walking through the streets as if she owned them. And really, she did. Not even Audrey Bourgeois, known as Style Queen in the world of Mafia and reputed to rule the undergrounds of New York, could compete. Emilie Agreste ruled Paris under many names and as many things. Emilie Agreste, model and movie star, known and beloved by many; Paon Vigilant, leader of the crime syndicate Miraculous, -feared by many, bordering on all; mother of Adrien Agreste, the sunshine child, and Chat Noir, pure destructive power hiding behind a playful smile; possible future mother-in-law of Marinette Dupain-Cheng, the growing celebrity designer, and Ladybug, leader of the next generation of underground; Wife of Papillon, the second half of the brains running the best set of underground warriors to date; She ruled Paris in many ways, and would not be dethroned by anyone. Ladybug may be her successor, but Paon Vigilant didn’t plan on retiring any time soon.

Passerbys averted their eyes when she turned hers toward them, some even ducking inside the nearest building to avoid her. Paon didn’t mind it though. She welcomed it. People would swarm Emilie, but they all avoided Paon Vigilant to the best of their abilities.

Mime kept pace with her easily, causing anyone who may have been stupid enough to try to challenge her on her own to think again. It was why the basic rule of Miraculous Syndicate is to travel in groups of two or more at all times. While almost all of them could easily fight on their own, having a partner kept spirits up and showed trust between members.

The car wasn’t empty when the doors opened, but Paon hadn’t actually been expecting it to be. Traveling in groups was a common occurrence, even past individual mission groups.

Riposte and Anansi were waiting inside.

“Hello, Miss Feather!” Anansi called, waving.

“Miss Vigilant.” Riposte nodded shortly from beside her partner.

“Hello girls,” Paon nodded to them each in turn as she entered the car, settling across from Anansi while Mime sat across from Riposte. “What have you two been up too?”

“Vanisher’s busy with the movie contest, so we’re being substitute spies concerning the Guardians,” Riposte explained.

“We stood out like bunnies in a hamster cage,” Anansi shrugged.

“Well if someone hadn’t gone head to head against a passerby about which version of that crazy spider myth of yours we might have stayed under the radar,” Riposte snapped.

“I was correcting misinformation!” Anansi defended.

Paon just smiled as the girls’ squabble kept up throughout the drive to Anansi’s drop location. Teenagers.

Hopefully Adrien’s teen years would be easy for her and Gabriel to deal with.

They reached Riposte’s destination not long after, leaving Paon and Mime again in silence for the last few miles to the arranged meeting place.

It was surprising, really, how far away the meeting places were from each other in Paris. Entirely different sides of town could sport buildings perfect for their needs. Out of the public eye, whilst not being too far out of the way.

Paon stepped out of the car, scanning the area for traps. There were none, but it would hurt more if she just breezed by instead of checking. Mime flanked her as they entered the building, following the soft cooing of pigeons to the correct room.

They reached the door, and after a quick conversation in sign, agreed to both go inside and meet with the possible new guy.

Paon Vigilant paused in the entryway of the meeting room, doing her best to not let her emotions show through her mask. Monsieur Pigeon took his name seriously. Very seriously.

There were pigeons and feathers everywhere. Bird feeders hung in the open windows, and any birds that weren’t flocked around M. Pigeon himself were staring at them from said feeders.

Even though she used a bird for her symbol, the majestic peacock, she had never taken it this far. Even Gabriel knew better than to take his butterfly symbol quite that far.

A part of Monsieur Ramier’s charm, or so she would suppose.

“Ah ha ha! You must be from the Miraculous Syndicate.” he shot out of his seat, moving irregularly across the room and scattering pigeons. “A pleasure to meet you! Isn’t that right my lovelies?” he chittered at two of the birds still on his arm, then turned back to her. “I am Monsieur Pigeon, if Hawkmoth didn’t tell you before he sent you.” The pigeons moved to his shoulders, leaving an arm open for him to offer his hand to her.

“Paon Vigilant,” she answered, taking it carefully. She pulled it back right after and gestured to Mime. “And this is my colleague, The Mime.”

“Not one for talking, is he?” Pigeon asked, tilting his head. “That’s okay! My darlings don’t talk much either, but we still make an amazing team. Isn’t that right my boy?” the pigeon in question just cooed, rubbing their head against his neck.

Paon was in crazy town. But he was said to be a good fighter, so she would have to trust that. And finish this interview.

“I’m sure that’s true. So you and your... friends... think you’ll be a good addition to our team? Most try rather hard to avoid being pulled into this, don’t they?”

She glanced around the room again, taking in the pigeons cooing around her, and wrinkled her nose ever so slightly at the smell of the poop wafting about the room. It was going to be a very long meeting.

***

“Well that was… a unique experience,” Paon voiced, pulling her mask off once safely back in the lair.

“Oh?” Hawkmoth prompted, leaning on his cane.

“Pigeon is not enough warning. He had at least thirty with him, and they all had names, and he was really nice, but I’m not sure how much he’d actually be able to do. We’re supposed to be scary, not nice.” Emilie handed the mask and hat to Hawkmoth, moving onto her hair.

“Are the pigeons at least unsettling?”

“Very,” Emilie assured him, walking over to where Catalyst was waiting.

“Anansi will be out soon, we could always use another bodyguard.” Catalyst offered, handing Emilie her purse. She took it and dropped her hair pins into it.

“I suppose you’re right. Nathalie, how long do we have until the film contest?”

“Two hours,” Catalyst replied.

“Perfect! We have some time to spend on the fashion world! Your newest line is due in two weeks, right?”

“It’s the one to go with Marinette’s hat.” Gabriel explained. “I still need to meet with her for the last set of checkups. Movie night?”

“I’m up for that!” Emilie agreed. “But only after you change back. Nathalie, do you want to join us?”

“After I finish the paperwork from today’s missions I might join you. You two should go ahead.”

“Alright.” Emilie moved back to hug Hawkmoth. “See you later Nathalie! Hit the button Lovebug.”

[soundofseventeen]

Seventeen When They Find Out You’re A Princess

Hi, I’m back from Mexico and I had time to finish this one while I was at the airport! A massive thank you to @noona-clock for letting us use their prompts! It wouldn’t be possible without them! Onto...Kwon Soonyoung! -Bee

Hoshi: Prince From Another Kingdom

“This is so stupid,” you could hear Jeonghan moaning to Chan. “Why did we agree to this? I could’ve been back in my garden, enjoying some lemonade and having some live music. But no, we’re here in god knows where, practicing...croquet, no less!”

“Hyung, I’d like to see the day you don’t find something to complain about. You never know when this will come in handy.”

“He’s got a point. It’s not the worst sport in the world.” Truth be told, you were good at it; you just couldn’t tell him that because then he’d throw it in your face, just like the horse riding. Which reminded you: “I’ll see you guys after practice; my chariot awaits. Oh and Chan? Please tell me how this goes. I’m willing to bet Jeonghan will quit this too.”

“Why is everyone so rude to me? We can’t all be athletic Y/N.” He crosses his eyes at you and you had to laugh at his immaturity, which made him huff. “Maybe some of us prefer the great indoors and hire someone to play this for us. WATCH WHERE YOU’RE HITTING ASSHOLE. THERE ARE PEOPLE HERE.” He shook his head. “I swear, sports will be the death of me.”

“Later guys.”

*

You loved horse riding in general, but your favorite thing about it was when the wind was blowing through your hair, you felt free and on top of the world. It was teamwork and trust that you built that made made you look forward to being outside the kingdom; it was the seemingly endless hours you spent brushing, feeding and calming down any anxious horse that made you feel at peace with the world; it was the few times you had fallen from your high horse (pun both intended and not) that humbled you and made everything worth it. You weren’t a princess around the stables, just human and animal being together, coexisting as one. 

Today, however, seemed like the day your favorite horse was taken, so you had no choice but to take Enfer (which scared you a bit since his name was literally French for hell and you’ve heard the horror stories behind him; like the accursed black cat, it seemed that black beauty wasn’t too far off in the bad bad luck department . He’s trampled an equestrian because he didn’t want his mane brushed and he’s runaway from several other riders because he could feel their fear, and that alone almost stopped you.)

It took you approximately 34 seconds to realize that Enfer was about to treat you the way he treated others and that was only because you noticed he was not a carrot person, err horse, and he proved it when he stomped on the vegetable, daring you to challenge him. Instead, you were able to coax him out with an apple you thought to bring with you, but that’s pretty much where your truce ended. In a sudden movement, he was on his hind legs, ready to knock you down but you jumped away just in time, and he used that to run in the opposite direction. (Whoever said horses weren’t smart certainly hasn’t worked with Enfer.) And now you had a runaway horse. Fantastic.

And then, the cliché-est thing of clichés happened. A handsome strangerwith his white steed gracefully rode past you, a lasso twirling in his right hand as he throws it with careful precision, warning his own horse to be cautious when confronting Enfer. The boy himself looked amused at the situation, almost breaking into laughter at the poor fool who managed to get stuck in this mess this time. And that was more than enough to have you embarrassed.

He then hopped off, handing you the rope, which didn’t help. “Thanks for returning my horse,” you mumbled sheepishly. You didn’t dare look him in the eye; who knew what else could happen. As it was, you could feel your face heating up and your palms starting to sweat. You were quite flustered to say the least. This has never happened.

“He is not yours, but mine,” he countered good naturedly. “I was wondering where he went.”

“Your horse?”

“Yeah! Enfer is a hell of a stallion but he is good at what he does! Pâté here is a sweetheart but doesn’t do much. Next time I recommend taking her out.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, um-“

“Prince Soonyoung at your service,” the boy declared proudly, bowing lowly. (Holy shit, it was another prince who wasn’t Jeonghan or Chan. Was it your lucky day?) He then patted Enfer’s snout rather smugly, as if they shared a secret no else dared to find out. “Master of helping the damsels in distress and currently in training to become a champion horse rider. And you are...?” He smiled in a friendly manner.

“Princess Y/N,” you curtsied. “A bit more humble than his Highness, but a pleasure nonetheless.” Normally, you wouldn’t declare your status the way you did, but sometimes you made an exception, such as now. ”Evader of those finding said damsels in distress and decent horse rider, and a decent croquet player.” He was flaunting (in good nature, so why shouldn’t you?)

“Prove it, then,” he said with a teasing wink. He was challenging you but you were up for the game. 

“You just met me and you’re already suggesting we play.”

His smile didn’t falter. “No, I mean prove that you’re a princess and not just someone who’s out to invade the kingdoms and all their lands.” There was another wink. “But I’ll take you up on that game of croquet if it’s true. I happen to be a professional.”

“Is that so?” This prince, whoever he was might’ve come off as arrogant to anyone else, but the way you looked at him, he reminded you of a boyish charm, with eyes that slanted every time he smiled (which was a lot) and when he laughed, it made you feel nostalgic. When he nodded, you continued. “Shall we then? I know a place.”

“One request: let’s put the horses away. It’d be a shame if something happened to Pâté here.”

You gulped, having caught on rather quickly. “How about we leave Enfer instead? What if he attacks us?”

“Enfer is harmless, I promise. And he’s faster too.”

*

“Soonyoung hyung, hi!” Chan greeted him enthusiastically and frowned slightly when he saw a nauseous you with your arms wrapped around his waist. “Y/N? I thought you wanted to be by himself.”

“I was, but then I was challenged to a game of croquet.” As gracefully as you could, you slid off the horse (which flicked his tail in your face) and called for one of your faithful servants to bring you your equipment. “And you know I cant resist a challenge. How’s Jeonghan?”

“Well, he uh-managed to hit himself with a racquet so Seungcheol offered to take him home-“

“-But as you can see, I’m still here! Why are you here with Soonyoung?”

“He doesn’t believe me that I’m a princess.”

“Hyung, how could you not know that? This is the princess that is known throughout the lands as the one who refused to marry Hannie hyung....and me.” Jeonghan thumped the back of his head and Chan jut shrugged.

“Listen Chan, Jeonghan and I would be terrible rulers together. He sleeps all the time and would probably leave all the decisions to me.”

“Besides, Y/N is rude and I deserve an angel who deserves someone as kind as me.”

You rolled your eyes at him. “And you’ve never asked me to marry you...”

“Marry me then.”

“Absolutely not! You’re still too young to rule marriage or not.”

“Always the excuses with you.” He was unbothered by the rejection because you were partly right.

There was that hamster smile from Soonyoung. “Oh I knew that. I just wanted to see her riding Enfer.”

“You WHAT.”

“Okay, not really that. I knew for sure when your guard over there-“ he pointed to Seokmin who was eyeing the the prince warily “had dropped to his knee to acknowledge your presence. But I’m still interested in a match. You up for it Your Highness?”

You liked the way he teased you, but maybe the dude could use some humbling, regardless. “You’re on.”

[theartofbeinganerd]

Oh please write a fic where fitz and deke go to the zoo ♥️

This is set post this fic, where Deke and pregnant Jemma go baby shopping; I wouldn’t say it’s completely necessary to read that one first, but it may help a bit with context.

Also, what the Fitz/Deke relationship is going to be like is kind of hard to get a read on, so I hope this came out alright!

(Also also, full disclosure, but I have never been to a zoo, so that’s why I kept this purposefully vague - I know generally what kinds of things they have there, but I figured it was better to be safe than sorry.)

(Ao3)

-

After Jemma’s promise to Deke the previous week that theywould take him to the zoo (Fitz didn’t know the full details of how this promise came about, but heimagined that it was Jemma’s idea more than Deke’s), Fitz found himselfstanding with Jemma near the exit of the Lighthouse, waiting on their grandson sothat they could go on their “family trip”, as Jemma kept calling it.

It’d been over six months now since they’d found out whattheir connection to Deke was, and Jemma had settled easily and almosteffortlessly into her role as a grandmother. Fitz, however, had had a slightlytougher time adjusting to it – especially since he and Deke hadn’t gotten offon the right foot in the first place.

But, Fitz had to admit that he was warming up to it and didn’tmind having Deke around as much, particularly because of how much Jemma lovedspending time with him. He was coming slowly but surely to the grudgingconclusion that Deke wasn’t all thatbad.

More than spending “family” time together, though, Fitz wassimply looking forward to go to the zoo, though he certainly wouldn’t admitthat to Deke. It had been quite some time since he’d been to a zoo – the lasttime had been with Jemma, about six months before they’d joined Coulson’s team,back before everything had changed. Fitz couldn’t help but marvel at what adifference a few years made; back then, they were best friends, partners, andwould’ve (and had many times before)denied to their last breath that there was nothing more between them.

And now, they were married, expecting their first child, and–

“You guys ready to go?” Deke called excitedly as heapproached them, a big grin on his face.

And, mostunbelievable of all, was their fully grown grandson from the future.

“Yes, we are,” Jemma replied with an answering smile,reaching over to pat the backpack sitting on Fitz’s shoulders, “I’ve packedsunscreen, bottles of water, and snacks, so we’re all set.”

“Let’s get going, then,” Fitz stated, turning to lead theway to the exit.

He paused, though, when he heard Coulson calling after them,“Fitzsimmons, wait a minute!”

Turning around to find him striding toward them, Fitz notedhis apologetic smile with a furrowed brow, asking curiously, “What is it?”

“Daisy and May finally managed to bring back some samples ofthat foreign substance that keeps appearing everywhere that those supposedalien attacks take place,” Coulson explained, adding, “I know you had plans fortoday, but this is going to have to take precedence.”

“Does this mean that we’re not going?” Deke asked, turningto Jemma and Fitz, disappointment clear in his tone.

Hiding his own disappointment, Fitz replied, “Seems like it.We can always try for next weekend, though.”

“Now wait a minute,” Jemma started thoughtfully, “I spentsome time with Deke last week when you had to work, so why don’t you two go tothe zoo together today? It’s only fair.”

Noticeably perking back up, but trying to play it off, Dekeglanced at Fitz, clearing his throat as he offered, “I’d…um, I’d be okay withthat. If you are too, that is.”

Fitz wasn’t so quick to agree, however, turning to Jemma andasking uneasily, “Are you sure? What if you need me in the lab?”

Jemma scoffed at that, questioning with a raised eyebrow, “Andwhen was the last time that youneeded me to complete a project inyour field of expertise?”

Despite her reply, Fitz stood firm, glancing pointedly downat her rounded stomach as he informed her, “That wasn’t what I meant, Jemma.”

With a soft smile, Jemma reached up to cup his cheek andinsisted gently, “I’ll be fine, Fitz; you know that I’ll be careful. You shouldjust go have fun at the zoo with Deke, alright?”

After a beat, Fitz finally agreed quietly, “Alright.”

Her smile grew before she pecked his lips, then she toldboth of them, “I’ll see you later, have fun!” Coulson gave them a nod, then heand Jemma began walking away, toward the lab, but they hadn’t gotten too farbefore she added over her shoulder, “And don’t forget to wear sunscreen! I don’tcare if it’s cloudy, wear it!”

Once they’d disappeared, there was a lengthy silence betweenFitz and Deke, but he finally broke it by clearing his throat and saying, “Well,alright; it’s just us, then.”

“Guess so,” Deke replied, offering him a small half-smileand a shrug.

After another moment, Fitz led the way out of the base, andto the parked car that he and Jemma had rented in anticipation of driving tothe nearest zoo, which they’d found was about a half an hour away. He got intothe driver’s side and started the car, but he couldn’t help but notice that itwas a long moment before Deke got into the passenger’s seat, glancing at thecar in fascinated confusion.

“What is this?” heasked, immediately reaching out to start pressing buttons, changing the radiostation a half dozen times before Fitz grasped his hand, shaking his headfirmly.

“It’s a car,” he answered, adding with a sigh, “Put on yourseatbelt, Deke.”

Deke glanced around in surprise, then laughed when hefinally found it, saying to himself, “Oh, thereit is,” as he buckled himself in. When Fitz pulled out onto the road, hequestioned, “Is a car like a ship? Does it fly?”

“No,” Fitz replied simply.

He was quiet for a few minutes, then commented under hisbreath, “It’d be a lot faster if it flew.”

Briefly, Fitz thought about mentioning Lola, but in the end,he didn’t want to encourage Deke’s idea that everyone should be getting aroundby flying car, so he kept it to himself. Instead, he turned up the radio a bit,though it didn’t quite stop the flow of questions coming from Deke for theentire drive there (road signs utterly baffledhim, as did speed limits, and Fitz could only hope that Deke never got the ideato try driving for himself).

Once they’d finally arrived and Fitz had pulled into a freeparking spot in the packed lot, he turned off the car and unbuckled his seatbelt.With a sigh, he reached for his backpack and took out the sunscreen, explainingseriously, “If we don’t use this, Jemma will know.”

Deke didn’t seem convinced, eyeing the bottle as he countered,“Will she?”

Clearly, Deke hadn’t spent enough time around hisgrandmother to be truly afraid of her yet. So, arching his eyebrows, Fitz toldhim shortly, “Yes, she will.”

Apparently believing him (or not wanting to risk it), Dekeheld his hand out, allowing Fitz to pour some of the lotion onto it. “Ugh, this smells horrible!” hecomplained, wrinkling his nose and leaning as far away from it as he could getin the confined space of the car. “What do you even do with this?”

“You rub it into your skin.” Fitz demonstrated for him, rubbinghis hands together and covering his face and neck with it. “It protects youfrom UV rays.”

Pulling an utterly disgusted face, Deke finally slatheredthe lotion onto his face (a bit dramatically, in his Fitz’s opinion), wonderingaloud, “Is this really worth it?”

Returning the sunscreen to the backpack, Fitz assured him, “Thecombination of sunburned skin and an upset Jemma Simmons is far worse, trustme.”

With that done, they climbed out of the car, and crossed theparking lot to the entrance of the zoo, where Fitz bought them tickets to getin and retrieved a map. Just inside, he immediately opened it, searchingstraight away for the monkey exhibit.

Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Deke pullingsomething out of his jacket pocket, and a moment later, he spoke up, “Hey, willany of the animals in my book be here? I’d love to see a real live hamster!”

Frowning, Fitz glanced up from the map, catching sight ofDeke flipping through the children’s book on animals that Jemma had bought Dekethe previous week. “Deke, those are domesticanimals – the kind that people keep as pets– and they aren’t in zoos.” Deke looked a bit disappointed, but nodded inunderstanding. However, when he still had the book out after a moment, Fitzadded in exasperation, “Put that away, will you?”

Finally spotting the monkeys on his map, fortunately relativelyclose to the entrance, Fitz quickly folded it back up and led the way there first.From his first glimpse of a capuchin on a tree branch, a grin began forming onhis lips.

“Wow!” Deke cried, stepping closer to the exhibit. “Real monkeys!”

Fitz was briefly impressed that he even knew what they werewhen he hadn’t even known what dogsand cats were, but then he realizedthat Jemma must’ve told Deke about them at some point. “Yeah, I’ve alwayswanted a monkey as a pet – I mean, just lookat them, with their little hands and their tails…”Not for the first time, he then began calculating the best way to get Jemma toagree to them having a monkey as a pet, but it was interrupted by Deke’s confusedvoice.

“I thought you couldn’t have zoo animals as pets?”

Making a face, Fitz clarified, “Ah, well, you’re not supposed to most of the time, but somepeople ignore those sorts of laws and keep wild animals as pets anyway.”

“Whoa, cool!” Deke commented, a grin ticking his lips up atthe corners.

Fitz had a sudden and horrifying image of Deke somehowbringing a tiger or an alligator into the Lighthouse as a “pet”, and then he would have to explain to Jemma andthe others where Deke had gotten the idea that that was okay. So, he clearedhis throat and corrected, “No, not cool, okay? That’s a bad thing, don’t everdo that.”

Deke was clearly confused again, but he ultimately agreed, “Okay,okay, sure.”

After finally managing to tear Fitz away from the monkeys,the two of them spent some time walking around amid the families with young childrenand the couples out on dates, the grandparents taking their grandkids out forthe weekend. To himself, Fitz couldn’t help but be entertained by the fact thatno one there would ever guess that he was a part of the latter group.

He spent quite a bit of the time having to constantlyexplain what things were to Deke, who was fascinated by everything, especially by animals that lived in different climatesfrom theirs, like penguins and panda bears. The animal that caught him bysurprise the most, though, had to be giraffes – Deke couldn’t seem to wrap hishead around just how tall they were.

Truthfully, though, he seemed most astounded by just how big most of the animals happened to be. “Imean, they’re bigger than me,” Deke pointed out when they were standing infront of the lion exhibit, his eyes wide and his eyebrows high on his forehead.Gesturing to the lion itself, he added, “That one could eat me!”

“Probably would if you got close enough,” Fitz agreed, butwhen Deke looked at him in horror, he winced and imagined him having nightmaresabout being eaten by a lion and telling Jemma that it was because of him, so he forced a smile and lied, “Justkidding.”

After a little while spent wandering around the zoo, theystopped at one of the vendors to get something to eat, despite the water andsnacks that Jemma had packed.

“What Jemma doesn’t know won’t hurt her,” Fitz insisted toDeke as he pulled his wallet out of his pocket.

Deke was scanning the menu eagerly, but suddenly he gaspedand read aloud, “Lemonade? What is that?!”

Offering the vendor that was giving them a strange look aweak smile, Fitz explained to Deke in a hushed voice, “It’s a drink with lemonjuice mixed with sugar and water.”

“I want that,”Deke told the vendor, his eyes wide, as though it was something of greatimportance.

“Sure thing, buddy,” the man replied, glancing briefly overat Fitz, who simply shrugged as he passed him the proper amount of money forthe drink.

When the man handed Deke the cup of lemonade, he took itquickly, hurriedly taking a sip from the straw. “Whoa, this is amazing!”

“Yeah, good, glad to hear it,” Fitz replied absently,accepting the bag of popcorn that he’d ordered from the vendor and leading Dekeaway so that the people behind them in line could order.

“Hey, does lemonade work in the same way that lemons do?”Deke questioned suddenly.

Frowning, he glanced over at Deke, finding him waitingpatiently for an answer to a question that Fitz didn’t even understand. “Um…what?”

“You know,” Deke elaborated, as though Fitz was the ridiculous one, “if you give someone lemonade, do theyknow what it means?”

“I don’t even knowwhat it means,” Fitz responded dryly.

“So…you’ve never given Jemma lemonade?” Deke asked, lookingmore than a little surprised by this information.

Fitz was silent for a beat, then he asked, “Is this someweird future metaphor that I’m not getting? Because, let me remind you that youdefinitely don’t want to get intothat subject anymore than I do.”

“Huh?” When he seemed to understand, Deke pulled a disgustedface and cried, “What? No! I reallymean lemonade! You know, the whole leave a lemon in someone’s bunk to show themyou like them? Coulson and Mack told me that people do that here too!”

Snorting in amusement, Fitz clapped his free hand on Deke’sshoulder and told him, “Hate to break this to you, but they pulled one over onyou; there’s no such thing.”

“What? Are you…areyou serious?” Deke groaned, visibly embarrassed as he briefly closed his eyes,running his free hand over his face.

“Very,” Fitz assured him, “try flowers or chocolates orsomething instead – that’s what I’ve always heard works best.”

Deke grumbled something under his breath, but Fitz didn’tquite catch it. He wasn’t very talkative for a while after that, spending mostof the time petulantly sipping his lemonade in silence as they walked by theelephant and rhino exhibits.

But, out of the blue, Deke spoke up again, startling Fitz ashe asked loudly, “What are those?!”

Glancing around, Fitz finally pinpointed the object of Deke’senthrallment as balloons of allthings, tied to a nearby cart and in various shapes of animals featured in thezoo. “Those are balloons, Deke.”

“I don’t…how are they floating?” Deke took a step closer tothe cart, squinting up at the balloons as he clearly tried to figure out howthey worked. “Do they have Gravitonium inside of them?”

“What? No, it’s helium,” Fitz told him, adding in a mutter, “whichis about as limited as Gravitonium, really.”

“Helium,” Dekerepeated to himself, seemingly mesmerized by the floating animals, “whoa.”

And, though Fitz didn’t support helium balloons in the leastand thought that they were a waste of a limited resource, he caved with a sighand gestured to them, “Alright, pick one out before I change my mind.”

“Really?” Dekequestioned excitedly, grinning at Fitz before pointing to one shaped like apenguin (he’d thought it was hilarious the way that the flightless birdswaddled around in their exhibit, which had apparently left an impression).

The woman selling them handed Deke the balloon with a warmsmile, advising him, “Hold onto that, or else it’ll fly away.”

Once Fitz had paid for it, they continued on their waythrough the exhibits, Deke’s earlier embarrassment over the whole “lemons”thing apparently forgotten as he spent a good deal of time watching the balloonfloating above him, bobbing up and down with the gentle breeze.

And, well, though Fitz had never thought he’d be amused by agrown man excited about a balloon, when it was his grandson…he did have toadmit that there was a little smile tugging at his lips.

-

When they returned to the Lighthouse later that day, Fitzwas surprised to find that Jemma was waiting for them near the entrance to thebase, an eager smile on her face, no doubt impatient to hear about their daytogether.

However, when Deke stepped in after Fitz, he saw hereyebrows rise on her forehead, her lips pressing together to hide her obviousamusement.

“Not a word,” Fitztold her simply, narrowing his eyes and pointing a finger at her, twitchinglips, shining eyes and all.

She mimed zipping her lips, but she didn’t even really needto say a word, not when her obvious delight was written so clearly on her face.

“The zoo is so cool,”Deke stated with a big grin, now wearing a t-shirt with the zoo’s name printedon the front, his penguin balloon in one hand and a stuffed zebra in the other.

“So, you had fun, then?” Jemma asked, stepping closer toFitz to slip her arm through his and leaning up against his side.

“Yeah! I can’t believe there are so many animals and – did you know about lemonade?” Deke’s eyes were wide,clearly still amazed by the prospect now hours later.

Jemma laughed at that, nodding as she told him, “I did,actually. My sister and I used to make lemonade and sell it at a little standwhen we were young.”

“You know how to makeit?” He seemed shocked by the information – but only for a moment; hisfocus then shifted to something over their shoulders, and he grinned as hecalled, “Hey, Daisy, wait! Have you ever seen how big a giraffe is?” With that,he brushed past them to catch up with Daisy, calling over his shoulder to Fitz,“Thanks!”

Fitz lifted a hand in acknowledgment, then turned back toJemma, asking curiously, “How did the study on the samples go?”

She arched a knowing eyebrow at him. “Oh no, you can’tchange the subject that easily.” A grin making its way onto her lips, sheteased, “All those times that you insisted that being a grandfather when youweren’t even a father yet was weird…”She lifted a hand to cup his face, turning his head so that she could plant akiss on his cheek. “I knew you had itin you – even if you bought foodthere instead of eating the snacks that I packed.”

Mentally cursing (he should’ve known that she’d figure it out), heoffered her an apologetic smile and a shrug. “Ah, well, I’m still learning, Iguess.”

[razieltwelve]

Difference of Opinion (Final Rose)

It took Weiss the better part of half an hour to find a suitably isolated place in the gardens around the academy. She sat down underneath the tree and tried very hard to stay calm. Things had been going so well. She and Ruby were actually getting along, which in turn had led to Yang warming up to her. As lacking as Ruby was in some areas, the girl was at least willing to work hard to make up for any deficits. Weiss could respect that.

This morning, though, things had taken a turn for the worse. The topic of Faunus rights had come up, and with it the White Fang. Ruby and Yang had displayed an oddly nuanced view of the situation although perhaps that shouldn’t have surprised her. Cinder Fall was one of Vale’s elite security and intelligence operatives, and Summer Rose had adopted her after finding a young Cinder in the ruins of a devastated village. If anyone was aware of the White Fang situation in Vale, Cinder was.

But Weiss and Blake had swiftly found themselves on opposite sides of the argument. Oh, Weiss wasn’t stupid. She knew that the Faunus had some legitimate grievances, but she had also seen some of her own relatives killed in White Fang bombings and other terrorist attacks. If Blake - or anyone - thought for even a second that Weiss wouldn’t love to see every last one of those extremists dead, then they had another thing coming.

Blake had argued passionately for Faunus rights, but some of her words had sounded suspiciously like White Fang talking points. Was Blake a White Fang sympathiser? If she was, then Weiss wasn’t safe. The White Fang had shown its willingness to abduct and murder its enemies, and Weiss was arguably the second most important target they had behind her father. Part of her wanted to believe she was simply being paranoid - Blake seemed like a good person - but she couldn’t afford to be wrong.

“Yo.”

Weiss shrieked and stumbled to her feet, only to relax a moment later as she realised who had been standing behind her.

“Professor Dia.”

“You know,” the professor said, smiling as she sat down and patted the spot beside her. “It’s customary for people to each lunch with their friends.” The professor chuckled. “And before you point out my hypocrisy, I’m mostly out here right now because Professor Cuddles and his friends could use a run.”

Right on cue, the professor’s hamster and some other hamsters hopped out of her pockets. Making happy sounds, they began to frolic in the grass nearby as a small group of drones took to the air above them.

“Those are in case there are any birds or other animals thinking of making a meal out of my hamsters,” the professor said. “Nothing lethal, but a shock or two is usually enough to convince a hungry animal to back off. If that doesn’t work, an electrified net should do the trick.”

“I… see.” 

Vanille tilted her head to one side. “You seemed to be getting along with your team much better, Weiss. What’s wrong?”

“It’s a personal matter,” Weiss said stiffly. “Professor.”

“I’m not surprised that it is, but it might help to talk about it.” Vanille paused. “That and it was kind of hard not to overhear your conversation with your teammates in the library since you and Blake were yelling at each other pretty loudly.” The professor patted her fox ears. “And I do have very good hearing.”

“Oh.” Weiss grimaced.

“If it helps, you’re not exactly wrong,” Vanille said. “About the White Fang, that is. Did you know they’ve attempted to assassinate me several times in the past?”

“What?” Weiss blurted. “But… but you’re a Faunus!”

“Yep.” The professor smiled sadly. “I’m a Faunus who doesn’t agree with their methods. Look, don’t get me wrong, Faunus aren’t always treated fairly everywhere, but I come from Oerba. In Oerba, Faunus and humans have been friends and allies for centuries because the simple truth of the matter is that if we don’t help each other, the Grimm are going to kill us all.”

“I wish it were that simple.”

“It is.” Vanille shrugged. “It’s not unusual for people to be prejudiced. Think of it as a kind of… modern day tribalism. But the thing is, exposure helps. If humans live and work alongside Faunus who want nothing more than to live good, productive lives, then it helps. If Faunus start blowing up transport hubs and murdering members of the judiciary, all they do is confirm all of the worst stereotypes.”

“I don’t hate Faunus,” Weiss said quietly. “Just the White Fang. They’ve… they’ve taken so much from my family.”

“I’m not going to blame you for hating them. If someone harmed my family, I’d hate them too.” The professor’s smile was cold and thin, an utterly alien expression on her normally cheerful face. “If someone hurt my family, I’d find them, and then I’d kill them. I’d kill their friends. I’d kill their family. I’d kill their Dust damned dog too. So, no, I don’t blame you for hating them. But at the same time, imagine you’re a Faunus. Imagine things are tough for you, and they never seem to get better. Imagine some people walk into your life saying they’ve got all the answers. They give you weapons and training. They give you a purpose. You’re not weak anymore. You’re strong. That’s… that’s a powerful feeling, Weiss.”

“You sound like you know how that feels.”

“Heh. I was an orphan, Weiss. My whole village died because of the Grimm. I tried to save them… but, well, I was only a kid then. Who ever listens to a kid?” The professor smiled ruefully. “When I was at an orphanage, that’s where I met Professor Yun. We became sisters, or rather we chose to become sisters. And you know what? It felt good having a family again, having someone who cared about me, and I swore then and there that I would never let anything happen to her. For those people in the White Fang, that’s how it feels to join. The White Fang isn’t just some organisation to them. It’s their family. It’s why so few of them ever leave. Who leaves their family?”

“That’s awful,” Weiss whispered. “They’re brainwashing people.”

“Call it what you like. It’s a smart thing to do. Why do you think the White Fang always goes after the poor and the downtrodden? They don’t bother with the Faunus who are doing okay because they likely won’t join. But the desperate, the ones with nobody and nothing to lose? Oh, they’ll join. It’s also why the White Fang goes after people like me. I started with nothing but the clothes on my back, and now I run a huge company that employs thousands of humans and Faunus around the world. I’m living proof that there’s another way, a better way, a way of hard work and heroism rather than terror and extremism.”

“What should I do?” Weiss asked. “I like Blake. She seems like a good person. But some of the things she said…”

“The White Fang weren’t always bad,” Vanille replied. “They had noble goals once. But things changed, and so did their leadership.”

“I find that hard to believe.”

“I’m sure a lot of people would say the same thing about your father and the SDC,” Vanille replied. Weiss’s eyes widened in shock. “I knew your grandfather, Weiss. He was a great man. The SDC hasn’t been the same since he died. And, no, I’m not saying your family are terrorists, I’m simply pointing out how quickly things can change.”

“I feel like I’m always the one who has to apologise,” Weiss said. “And that’s just… it’s not fair.”

“In this case, you and Blake are both at fault. Neither of you know enough about each other’s pasts to understand just where you’re coming from.” Vanille smiled faintly. “You and Professor Villiers get along pretty well, so I’ll share something he once said to me: we can never outrun our past even if we eventually find the strength to overcome it. You and Blake are both products of your past, but that doesn’t mean your pasts have to define your futures.”

Weiss said nothing for a long time. “You’re very smart, professor,” she said at last. “Thanks for the advice.”

“I am literally the smartest person on the planet, but I’ll take that as a compliment.” Vanille waved as Weiss stood. “If you want to pay me back, spend more time with Professor Villiers. He thinks you’ve been avoiding him.”

“I will,” Weiss said

As Weiss rushed off, Professor Cuddles hopped back onto Vanille’s lap for a treat. “Such troublesome students we have this year,” Vanille murmured. “But few great things come about easily.”

X     X     X

When Weiss got back to the dorm room, Blake was waiting for her. Ruby and Yang were mysteriously absent too.

“Blake…”

The other girl held up one hand. “Just… just wait a second.” She took a second to compose herself. “Listen… we both said a lot of things in the library. I… I don’t know how to feel about the rest of the Schnee family, but I… we’ve known each other for a month now, Weiss. We’ve gone on missions and taken classes together, and I think I know you well enough to say this: you… you are a good person. I’m not saying you're perfect or anything, but you’ve been doing your best to help all of us with anything you can, and you’ve gone out of your way to make adjustments. That’s not easy, and you deserve credit for it.” Her voice softened. “So I’m not going to apologise for wanting more Faunus rights, but I will apologise if I made you feel bad or if I ever gave the impression that I supported anything that has happened to your family. You don’t deserve that.”

Weiss blinked. She was feeling just a tad teary. “I… you’re a good person too Blake. And I want Faunus to have equal rights too. We’ve both got things we’re not willing to talk about yet, but I hope the day comes when we’re both ready to share our pasts. I can wait. I trust you.”

“Weiss -”

“Yay!” Ruby practically exploded out of one of the closest as Yang tumbled out of another. “We’re all friends again!”

“You were hiding in the closet?” Weiss and Blake shrieked together. 

“Yeah!” Ruby cheerfully dragged both Weiss and Blake into a hug. When they resisted, Yang added her own strength, which settled the matter. “I know you two are good at noticing people, so I might have borrowed some stuff from Diana.”

“Some stuff?” Weiss hissed. “What kind of stuff?”

“Oh, well, you know. Sound suppression. Holographic camouflage. Aura concealment tech. A bit of everything.”

Blake scowled. “We’re going to talk about this, Ruby.”

“Of course, we are.” Ruby beamed. “And we can talk about it because we’re friends, right?’

“Yes,” Blake and Weiss said together. “I guess we are.”

[hot-topic-for-vikings]

Camilla’s Best Quotes #3

It’s been a while since we’ve had one of these, hasn’t it? A whole lot has happened since the last Camilla’s Best Quotes, and we’ve gone from fun bants with the jolly party to intense Murder Times with confusion, mystery and betrayal. No one seems to know what anyone’s doing or thinking and there is MILD DISSENT among the party members. So, let’s hear what Dancer, Tuile, Corva, Belloth and Heskan had to say this time!

1. Dagger party!

Corva: well I don't think I need 13 daggers

Hamster Master (GM): xD

Corva: I'll just take 1

Couch: that's quitter talk corva

2. Are you sure about that?

Shadowdancer: "Hey, where's Corva?"

Tuile shrugs.

Belloth: "Don't know."

Shadowdancer: "That's not good."

Belloth: "I'm sure she's alright. I trust her judgement."

Camilla: do you djskjksj

Eff: lmao good one

Camilla: after last time

3. I don’t need to caption this

Shadowdancer: "We should, uh, split up. I don't do well in crowds."

Tuile: "Hoe?"

4. We’re pretty useless

Hamster Master (GM): are you attacking straight away without talkin

Belloth: i mean that was what i was plannin

Hamster Master (GM): tell me what u do i cant read ur minds xD

Cravin Raisins: give a witty one liner

Hamster Master (GM): if ur quiet ur just standing there

Eff: oh my god i should've gone in huh

5. Detective Belloth Bittenbinder

Couch: NOW IVE THROWN HER OFF HER RHYTHM

Hamster Master (GM): erhw45h4wth

Couch: STREET SMARTS

Cravin Raisins: THE BELLOTH METHOD

Hamster Master (GM): STREET SMARTS

CONTINUED UNDER THE CUT...

6. I’m putting this here because I can. It isn’t funny but I thought it was a pretty cool conversation (just the sort of one you should be having in the middle of a battle!)

Corva: "Why did you lie to us?"

Frida: What do you mean?

Corva: "We found your assassins.Their actions may be questionable but their motivation is not."

Frida: What are you talking about?

Corva: "I- I don't want to hurt you. But you are a terrible ruler. You hurt people."

Frida: I do what I have to do! This town is falling apart!

Corva: "I don't care! It's wrong! Find another solution!"

Frida: I've saved a lot of people this way!

Corva: "But now a lot of people want you dead."

Frida: Including you apparently! Well, try it!

Corva: "No, I don't. I just want you to stop ruining lives."

Frida: I save lives.

Corva: "I knew someone once who made that same excuse. It's possible to do both." 

7.Okay, back to SMASH

Couch: i would like to smash but only when people are satisfied

Eff: do what bell would do. Let her smash

Couch: lemme smash

Hamster Master (GM): then smash

Eff: TEAR THAT BITCH APART

8. It honestly wouldn’t have been surprising at this point

Corva: I cast healing word on Belloth

Heskan: nice

Couch: danks

Eff: christ for a moment i thought you cast it on frida

Hamster Master (GM): gbgwthjnr4

Heskan: me too

Hamster Master (GM): nice

Cravin Raisins: PLOT TWIST

Eff: "there corva goes again that wild bastard"

Couch: "What the fuck bro"

9. I’d rather not

As you fight, you hear something.

Eff: shit

Couch: h-hewwo?

Cravin Raisins: hewwo??

Heskan: oh no

Cravin Raisins: wefkgjfrhedsAX

Shadowdancer: "Well fuck my donkey."

10. Looting a woman’s dead body in front of her guards!

Cravin Raisins: i wanna loot her body

Cravin Raisins: will corva be bissed lmao

Camilla: massively

Camilla: but go ahead

Cravin Raisins: welp

Cravin Raisins: yes

11. I’m getting deja vu from a few sessions ago

Belloth rolls a 4 on a dexterity save.

You all manage to grab onto something and stay upright.

Belloth: except for bell who dies 

And just as suddenly as it began, it stops.

Hamster Master (GM): oh right, Bell

Bell fell on her ass.

12. Seeing double

Corva: why are there two corvas

Eff: WE'RE MULTIPLYING

Corva: WHAT TE FUCK

Belloth: MIRROR IMAGE

Cravin Raisins: AHH

Briar: THEY'RE CLONES

Cravin Raisins: we have to fight them now

Belloth: THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE

Hamster Master (GM): sorryyyyy

13. *side-eyes*

Shadowdancer joins the others.

Camilla: wonder what happened up there......... :)

Shadowdancer: "Post-battle makeout sesh. And you're free to come along, if you want."

Vinmin goes downstairs. 

Corva: "No thanks."

Corva fiddles with a ring on her finger.

Shadowdancer: "I was talking to Vinmin, you wee pacifist you."

Camilla: :))

Eff: also idk why but i'm gonna pretend corva said that and not cam

14. Murder is hungry work

Tuile: "I want to go to the bakery."

Shadowdancer: "Oh, me too! I'm in the mood for some ... hmm. Muffins?"

Tuile: "Mmm..."

Corva looks INCREDIBLY disenchanted.

Vinmin: I want muffins...

Shadowdancer: "Celebratory muffins?"

Belloth: "Those do sound good."

Tuile: "Cupcakes, maybe... Hm... Okay."

Shadowdancer: "I could never tell the difference."

Camilla: why would the bakery be open late at night?

Vinmin: Some nice bread!

Cravin Raisins: what time is it?

Tuile: "Bread. Yes."

Belloth: "Yeah!"

Eff: it's always open if you're not a coward

Tuile: "Obviously."

Hamster Master (GM): its like...morning soon. I would say 4 am.

Camilla: well bakers get up early to make the goods

Tuile: "Let's go!"

Camilla: so they've probably made some stuff at least

Hamster Master (GM): awergwe4

Tuile: "Quickly!"

Shadowdancer: "To the bakery!"

Hamster Master (GM): r u really leavin and goin to the bakeryx'D

Eff: ... yes ?

Cravin Raisins: yeehaw 

15. A lot has changed, and nothing has changed

Cravin Raisins: human emotions? whats that? Tuile just wants food. 

I’m so looking forward to arc 2 and I know the other guys are too! You guys better be ready for Corva’s intense glow-up...