#miraculous lady buy and chat noir

[jupiterriot]

Quick lil sketch commission I got to work on for @aanabear2803 :3c

Currently running a sale on my Ko-fi shop in support of my sister elder dog, please give it a look if you can <3

Even just reblog this post here helps

🐕 💕

[miraculouslbcnreactions]

Adrien's feather allergy as foreshadow of his status as sentimonster is reaching on fandom part. But fandom claimed Felix being one isn't. His name being the episode name definitely foreshadowing his status as sentimonste, considering in s1-3, the episode always named after either akuma or sentimonster bar the Origins. That's what I call foreshadowing. Not whatever feather BS people like to claim.

Felix being a sentimonster is just make senses, always make senses for me, considering he seems harbor a jealousy toward Adrien especially at his remark "You always do everything your father tells you to do?" Considering as sentimonster he couldn't disobey whoever had his amok while human Adrien can disobey anytime he want yet choose not to, in his view.

Then come s4 and 5 with a huge retcon.

Also prior to s4 I don't believe the rings is amok, Felix want it because his mother want it since it's her family heirloom. Again, make senses that she want one of it considering Emilie is dead at this point. She has the right to own one of her family heirloom, Gabriel don't.

One of the episode in s5 implied that Felix always know that the rings are amok and this doesn't make senses if we were to connect back to his debut episode where he just give the ring he stole to his mother, even if say Amelie is a better parents/human than Gabriel, Felix who claimed to love his cousin and want to free him, should know better than to give his cousin's amok to his mother. The math is just not mathing, unless Felix doesn't know the rings are the amok in his debut episode and only know later which is a huge plot hole.

The retcon isn't inherently bad per se, in initial plot Luka is supposed to be Juleka's brother older by two years, s4 retcon him to be her twin. This isn't a problem because it's a minor thing that people either doesn't notice or doesn't care. But when what retconned is almost about the whole world building and lore, that's when it become a big problem. S4 onward doesn't seems like the same series as it's prior season.

,

Would you also argue that Nathalie is a sentimonster given the name of the final episode of season two?

[Image showing that episode 25 of Miraculous season two is named "Mayura"]

And what about the first episode of the origins two parter? Does this mean that Marinette and Adrien are both not humans?

[Image showing that episode 11 of Miraculous season one is named "Ladybug & Chat Noir"]

In seasons 1 to 4, episodes were mostly named for akumas and sentimonsters, but it wasn't a hard rule, so that's a pretty weak argument for Felix being a sentimonster. Even if he was human, he's still the episode's main antagonist, so naming it after him isn't weird even if he was fully human. This is extra true since Chat Noir was originally named Felix, so calling the episode "Felix" apparently drove up hype from fans who were saddened by the change. People wanted to see Felix make at least a cameo and would even pester the head writer about it prior to this episode. A lot of people wanted him to be a former Chat Noir or Adrien's older brother or something like that. You can find a lot of fanfics that did this long before season three was even airing.

Plus what else would you call this episode? There wasn't a single akuma, there were three, and "Princess Fragrance, Lady Wifi, Reflekta" is both an awkward name and something of a spoiler since I think this was the first time that we saw one item lead to multiple akumas.

ALL THAT BEING SAID, I would actually buy that Felix was planned to be a sentimonster from the start. That doesn't feel like a retcon in the same way that Adrien and Kagami do because there is some setup for Felix. The "always do what your told" line fits him being a senti and evil "twins" are often revealed to be magical in origin in these kinds of shows. Plus sentimonsters were a thing at this point, so yeah, I'd totally buy it.

The big reason I still call it a retcon is because of the issue you bring up about the rings. The way they're handled in that episode makes no sense if they're supposedly Adrien's amoks because how would Felix even know that? Who told him? Amelie?

I mean, I'd buy that Amelie knew because it's implied that she was somewhat close to her sister, but that just raises more questions! Why is she demanding her nephew's amok? Why does she give it to Felix? What does she think he's going to do with it? What is going on here?

And, of course, there's the biggest issue of them all: why is Gabriel only mildly annoyed that Felix and Amelie have Adrien's amok? If that was me, I'd be demanding it back! I'd be sending akumas! I'd go to war! You are not controlling my kid!

But Gabriel does nothing. He just waits for Felix to bring it back in the next season. Like this is how he greets Ameilie the next time he sees her:

Amelie: Gabriel! I'm so happy to be able to thank you in person for giving our family's ring (kisses his cheeks) back to Félix. Gabriel: It was the sensible thing to do, Amelie. Adrien: That was very thoughtful of you, Father.

Dude, what are you doing? Why didn't you just tell her that Felix stole the ring? What is going on here? Why does this episode (Gabriel Agreste) end will Gabriel totally fine that he didn't get the ring back because he finally got his hands on one of Ladybug's magical charms? It seriously comes across like he the completely forgot about the ring even though this is the season where Adrien is finally foreshadowed to be a sentimonster! Writers, what are you doing???

A better version of the episode Felix would see Felix show up with the goal of learning if Adrien is also a sentimonster and - if yes - figuring out what the amok is. Have Gabriel give Adrien a command to be nice to Felix so Felix is a total brat to see what his cousin will do. This would be excellent foreshadowing because you could do all of that without directly stating what Felix is doing, but once the reveal happens, it would be a major "oh!" moment on a rewatch.

As-is, the episode is just weird. It may have been intending to set Felix up as a sentimonster, but why? What was the plan? What's with the rings? Why did Felix try to take away all of Adrien's friends and ruin his reputation? There are just so many questions raised here that - sentimonster or not - Felix was still massively retconned.

I will also agree that a retcon isn't necessarily a bad thing, but the writers claim to have planned everything out which is why I will point out every one as it clearly refutes that claim. Plus most of them aren't minor things like the weirdness of Luka's age. It's big stuff like all of the above, which does negatively impact the show. Everything about Felix is extremely unsatisfying and I don't think we're getting answers to any of the questions I asked in this post.

[jennagrinsoverml]

Got any Catwalker fic recs? Haven't found many yet but the angst and identity shenanigan potential from the setup makes me wanna read more, and your recs are top notch.

I really wish there was more Catwalker fics! Sadly there aren't very many still. I feel like, in general, there just wasn't as much fic for season 4 as for prior seasons (and it's only gotten worse for season 5...) With that said, here are a few I enjoyed.

Walking a Fine Line by @11jj11​

Ladybug learns that Chat Noir was Cat Walker. Emotions ensue.

One-shot. I think all of us are itching for some good ladynoir confrontation considering canon events and how much they did NOT get into the nitty gritty of the conflict. So read this awesome fic that starts off light and leads to these two screaming at each other and then…well, I don’t want to spoil, but it’s absolutely beautiful 💖

another side of you by @emsylcatac

"Did he..." Chat Noir started, searching for the right words. "Did he like puns, my Lady?"

Ladybug frowned, clearly confused by the question. "Um, I'm not sure? He didn't laugh at mine, but—"

"Then it's a no," he grinned.

"What?" she scoffed. "You can't say no just because of puns, Chat Noir!"

"And why not?" he crossed his arms. "If I need a replacement, I need one who can fit my role perfectly. And the basic requirement to be a good Chat Noir is to like puns, which this Catwalker of yours clearly doesn't seem to meet."

One-shot. Ladybug and Chat Noir discuss the possibility of bringing back Cat Walker as Chat's emergency back up. Although Cat Walker doesn't make an appearance, the discussion is amazing, especially with Ladybug's crush on full display. (But of course Chat is Adrien and as oblivious as ever 🤣)

Marinette Considers Giving Cat Walker a Miraculous by Hadithi 

“I should probably figure out whoever Cat Walker was and give him a miraculous,” Marinette jokes.

Her hands are covered in flour because she’s kneading dough, and she’s kneading dough because she found out last week that Adrien buys his bread at the grocery store. Her boyfriend is rich, and he could buy nice bread, but he doesn’t. Instead, Marinette bakes bread from scratch and knows that Adrien is always touched by gifts that aren’t paid for.

“You never found out?” Adrien grins as he leans across the counter.

One-shot. This is a cute post-reveal established relationship fic where Marinette finds out her boyfriend was Cat Walker too--and he teases her mercilessly. It's funny and sweet and it makes me happy to think something like this could happen one day.

The Sun is In Your Eyes by @deinde-prandium

The morning after they’ve revealed their identities to one another, Ladybug and Chat Noir have a much-needed talk. Post-season 4.  

One-shot. Oh man, I love this fic a ridiculous amount. We get post-reveal pre-relationship in the aftermath of all of season 4′s angst and it’s beautiful!! Chat trying to hold back because he doesn’t want to pressure her, but his feelings haven’t changed, of course they haven’t. It’s post-reveal, but we get a Cat Walker reveal too!

Runaway Catwalker (ML Comic) by @runawaycatwalker​

After Chat Noir's identity is discovered by Mayura, the only person left for Adrien to be is Catwalker...

Takes place post-Kuro Neko, pre-Risk/Strike Back.

Comic. This is a WIP! But it’s so good and I’m enjoying it immensely. You can also read it here on tumblr at their username. Everyone is really in character and there’s really excellent exploration of the fallout of Chat Noir’s identity being discovered, as well as his turn to being Catwalker full time. I’m excited to see how it all plays out!

[ririchanva]

Chapter Seventeen: Battling In New York~! (Part Three)

░❇┊Previous┊❇ ░ ❇┊Next┊❇ ░ ❇┊Masterlist┊❇ ┊AO3 ┊❇░

░❇ Buy Me Some Coffee~? ❇░

Chapter Warning: Violence, death of a minor character, blood.

A/n: Key Notes about this chapter:

There will be more Kwami Swapping. I know it can be annoying, but hey...we'll see who gets who this round.

New characters are appearing as a teaser. Fully revealed in the next and final chapter of this arc.

Ladybug and Chat Noir are gonna be super OP down the line. Then again, so are Bakugo and Deku.

As requested by you folks, more of the American teen heroes xD

So with that, let's get to part three~

   “We need to find Empress Tigresse and King Stinger!” Chat Noir argued, the two having been called by Lady Dragon, the heroine reporting that Techlonizer was spotted with some allies and would need backup. 

   “I know! But we need to prioritize this first!” Ladybug explained as she was swinging into the scene, already ready to summon her Lucky Charm.

    “Don’t be scared~“ Techlonizer chuckled, watching the United Heroez carefully with a dark smirk, “I only wish to finish what I started~”

    Ladybug was about to throw her yo-yo up in the air, but suddenly felt her communicator go off. Biting her lower lip, she picked up and answering it, frantically hissed. 

      “Kinda busy here! Still have to de-akumatize Techlonizer!”

    “It’s about Zoe. She was akumatized and we need backup” King Stinger spoke from the comm as his face was shown on Ladybug’s screen, frowning. In the background, Empress Tigresse, Pixie Girl and The Sorcerer were doing their best to stop Sole Crusher from stomping on anymore people.

    “We need you here. NOW!”

    “I’ll go!” Rody’s voice called as he was coming out of the fire, soot covered his body from head to toe, Pino flying frantically above him while the ladybug and kitten stayed on Rody’s shoulders, “You deal with these guys, I’ll deal with Zoe!“

    Ladybug had so many questions. However, her eyes landed on the briefcase that was in Rody’s hand and immediately understood. Nodding her head, she soon rushed to get Techlonizer and his crew, Chat Noir reluctantly following after her. 

    Lady Dragon landed next to Rody, already turning into her full dragon form, “Hop on. I’ll go with you.”

    The Otheon thief didn’t argue as he jumped on her back, the two now soaring to the sky to locate where King Stinger and the others would be.

    “NO!” Nine yelled, about to chase them but not before both Deku and Bakugo jumped in together, kicking the armoured man to another building to stop him.

    The current Holder of One-For-All paused in his steps as Bakugo went straight ahead to use his Exploding Gaunlets towards the villain, looking around for someone. 

     When his eyes landed on Bonnie Blanche, he rushed over to her, “Bon, I need you.”

     Perking up with a bright smile as she was called on, the rabbit themed heroine looked over at him and hopped over to him, “What do you need, Deku?”

     “We need to head to places and pick up some people. Will you help me?”

    The rabbit heroine nodded, already opening a burrow with a twirl of her umbrella. Taking his hand, Bonnie Blanche soon jumped in with Deku in tow, and the two ending up in the “warren” where the other portals were. 

    “So what is it that you’re planning?” Bonnie Blanche asked before she saw the Dragon Pendant in hand and blinked when Izuku pointed at a portal.

     “First I have to go to Shoto-kun and get the Bee Miraculous back.”

     “But why?” 

     Deku was about to explain when he shivered for a second, frowning when he glanced over somewhere, Bonnie Blanche following his line of sight. He didn’t know why, but he felt like someone was watching him. However, the presence was gone as soon as he was pinpointing it out, making Deku narrow his eyes.

    “D-deku?” Bonnie Blanche asked worriedly, snapping Deku out of it.

    “…Sorry,” The green haired hero turned to her and smiled weakly, then looked determined, “Anyways! I have a plan!”

    Rody looked down at the briefcase on his lap with a somber look, pursing his lips as he touched over the top of it. Taking a deep breath, he opened it with a click of the locks, peeking inside. 

    There, he saw a four sectioned square casings with a circular center and a gold outline. In each section of the square are four different objects and in a different color with a darker-shaded circled symbol in the center. One of the objects missing was a red section with a darker eagle symbol. The objects that were inside are some sort of traditional looking cloak pin, some sort of ring, and feathered earrings. 

     But his eyes was mostly focused on the middle one, which seems to be some sort of hair tie with tribunal patterns on it. Unconsciously, he reached out for the hair tie and once it was in the palm of his hand, a warm glow formed above the object. Rody didn’t feel scared about this, almost feeling a sense of dejavu as a little Kwami like creature appeared before him. This little one looked a lot like Pino in a way, only their body was green with red, black and white patterned wings along with their feathered top.

    Opening it’s dark beady eyes, the creature cooed softly in warmth.

    “Greetings, my new Chosen. My name is Talli.”

   “I’m Rody.” The boy introduced himself immediately, not noticing Fei was looking back at him questionably, “I’m sorry that you’re stuck with me. Your master…“

   “—Has completed his mission. Now your destiny shall begin,” Talli watched as Rody looked down at the Miraculous in hand, his eyes sorrowful and unsure, “Why do you not have confidence in yourself, Young Rody?”

    “Because all my life, I’ve done bad things to survive. I had to cheat, lie and do anything so I could place food for the table for my siblings. Try to give them a way to have a bright future when I couldn’t,” Rody murmured as he squeezed the Miraculous in hand, “I do not deserve to be a Miraculous holder, especially not the new Guardian. Can’t I give it to Pixie Girl or The Sorcerer? They were looking for your Master and you guys—“

    “Pala would NEVER give the Miracle Box to someone he was not sure of. The Spirits of his ancestors has led you to him as the next successor.“ Talli said with a sure tone, as Rody barked a laugh.

   “No. It was a coincidence that we met. A mistake.“

   “There is no such thing as coincidences. Do not mock a dead man’s wish for us to be in good hands. Your hands.”

    Rody went silent as Talli continued.

   “You are destined for great things. It starts now. I am sure your mother would be very proud of you and the man that you’ve grown up to be.”

   “M-My mum?” Rody breathed out as he looked at the Kwami in confusion, “How—?”

    “Rody?”

    The brunet snapped his head towards the sound of a woman’s voice and gasped, his eyes widening in shock at the sight before him. Behind a glowing Pino was a visage of a middle aged woman dressed in a pilot’s suit with tanned skin, light brown hair like Rody’s that was tied as a side ponytail and bright silver like eyes. 

    “M…Mum…?”

    Rody shakily reached a hand out to the spirit before him, tears welling in his eyes as the woman smiled softly, reaching her own gloved hand towards him.

    “You’re so grown up. Time sure flies.” The woman laughed softly as Rody sobbed openly, wishing to reach up and hug her.

   “Mum! Y-You’re here. R-roro and Lala, they—“

    “I know. I’ve been watching you kids the whole time. I’m sorry that Ed had left you guys alone. I’m sorry that I wasn’t there for you when you needed me.”

    Rody shook his head, sniffling, “N-No, it’s not your fault. If anything I…I’m sorry I let you down. I lost my way…”

     “And you can find your way back. Rody,” The woman said firmly as she reached to touch his son’s cheek, softening a little, “It’s never too late to make a change. I’ve always told you to always take a leap of faith on anything your heart desires. Just as I know that flying is your dream. A big part of you that will never go away.”

    “Mum, I have to look after the kiddos…”

    “And you do a wonderful job, you’re the best big brother they could love and ask for. I’m very proud of you so far, and hope you continue to grow…” The woman softened as she then breathed out, “But you also have to take care of yourself too, my little wingspan.”

    “Rody, we’re here!” Fei interrupted, the dragon flying near to where Soul Crusher was, already cornering Pixie Girl and the Sorcerer, both King Stinger and Empress Tigresse missing in action.

    “Do what you gotta do, Rody. I know you will know what to do in the end.”

    Rody snapped his head to his mother and shook his head, “N-No, no no, you—you just got here! I have so many things to say, so many things to ask…please don’t go yet, Mum—“

   The woman smiled as she touched over where Pino was just floating motionlessly, and chuckled, “I’m not that far away. If you ever need me, you can always talk to this cutie right here. I’ll always be with you, Roro and Lala…I love you guys. This isn’t a goodbye. We’ll meet each other again.”

   Rody sniffled, raising his hands up to catch Pino, who was floating down onto his palms. The woman slowly vanished into sparkles of light, leaving Rody to cry silently and hug his bird companion tightly to his chest. Once he got his bearings together, Talli looked to him with a knowing smile.

    “So, Rody Soul…what shall you do now?“

    He was quiet for a moment, chewing his lower lip as he thought for a moment. With a determined face, he took off his own hair tie and tied his hair with the Miraculous on, tightening his ponytail as he looked to the Kwami. 

    “Never too late to make a change, right?” Rody told the bird like creature as Pino woke up and rested on his shoulder with a chirp. Rody looked over to Sole Crusher then turned to Talli with a grin.

    “So, what should I do?”

    Talli chuckled in amusement, nodding their head, “All you have to say is; Talli, Soul of Unity.”

    “STOP SCREWING AROUND!”

    An explosion went off as both Ladybug and Chat Noir moved out of the way when Bakugo landed a hit on the bandaged covered man, sending him flying.

    “Mummy Bastard…don’t underestimate me!”

    “Are you okay?” Ladybug landed beside the blond, noticing then that one of his gauntlets were missing, then thought with an impressed smile, ’He sacrificed his own gear…’

     “LOOK ALIVE PEOPLE!” Fury shouted as he and his other ghost partners flew above them, tackling the beast like man.

     Next to them, Sparrow, Uncanny Valley and Tsukuyomi went after the woman with hair extending quirk.

    “He’s right! We should take down Techlonizer and that other guy with him, and fast!” Chat Noir stated to Bakugo and Ladybug, twirling his bo-staff in his hand, “What’s the plan?”

    “Judging with the fights against the pros, the new guy has more than one quirk,” Bakugo murmured as he looked to where Sir Nighteye  and Eraserhead were up against Nine, then back at the duo, “You two deal with the Akumatized villain. I’ll help the heroes with those other freaks.” 

    “We’ve got your backup, Kacchan!”

    Both Bakugo and Ladybug looked up and spotted Deku coming out from Bonnie Blanche’s portal, both he and the rabbit heroine were being followed by a few people.

    “Wha…?” 

    Ladybug was surprised to see not just Carapace and Queen Beebeside Deku, but it seems there are new faces. The spotted heroine felt her head spin, before looking at Deku for an explanation.

     “Okay, I can totally explain~”

     “Anyways, I have a plan!” 

     Deku soon was popping his head into a portal nearby, reaching his arm out before pulling someone in. Glitter Gilt yelped as she looked around in surprise before looking back at him, then at Bonnie Blanche.

    “Errrr, what’s up guys?” She asked as Deku was looking into another portal.

    “Sabrina-san, power down for a moment, I need Daizzi for someone else.” He told her, soon reaching both his arms out into the portal to pull in King Stinger and Empress Tigresse.

    The Bee Hero looked confused as he watched Glitter Gilt powered down, the Pig Kwami falling into her hands. Although Empress Tigresse whirled around to Deku to ask for an explanation, but Deku raised his hand up in front of her, shaking his head.

    “No time to explain. Power down and hand me the Tiger Miraculous. Shoto, you as well. I will need Pollen.” Deku said all this calmly while he took the Pig Miraculous from Sabrina.

    “What’s going on?” Shoto asked as he powered down, feeding Pollen before seeing Deku reaching into another portal once more, pulling in Rockershella, Feathertop and Cobalt Bull. 

    Deku told them to power down as well before looking back at the fire and ice hero.

    “I need to give proper Miraculous to their permanent and respective owners. For this plan to succeed, I believe this is the best course of action.” He stated, taking the Bee Miraculous from Shoto before handing it to a gobsmacked Chloe, then reaching into another portal.

    Sabrina, looking confused as Deku passed her the Tiger Miraculous to her, looked over at him, “Does Ladybug know you’re doing this?”

    One knowing smile told her that, no, she didn’t.

    Deku pulled Ubayagi into the warren with them, smiling softly at her once the Goat Heroine de-transformed and handed her Miraculous to him.

    “So, um, w-what are we doing right now?” Nathaniel asked as his Miraculous was taken and suddenly was presented with…The Peacock Miraculous?

    “As I’ve said, I’ve got the perfect line-up for everyone for this battle. Especially since we’re gonna be getting new recruits today,” Deku hummed, twirling the Turtle Miraculous in hand before handing it to Nino.

    Which made Nino push the Miraculous back to Deku with a forlorn look.

    “Are you crazy!? I screwed up as Carapace, you should give this to Nath and let him be Pridwen!”

    “I second THAT. Why are you giving me the Bee again when Sabrina was doing brilliantly more so as the Bee Heroine?” Chloe argued, although Deku just looked at them as if their question was confounded. 

    “But you guys never screwed up as Carapace and Queen Bee?”

     Nino snorted, “Do you not remember what happened with Sombre Swift?”

     “That wasn’t your fault though?” Deku argued gently, while Nino was shaking his head, “Nino…”

     “To be honest, Nino, I think Izuku has a point,” Nathaniel interrupted as he looked to Nino and softened, “While I know that Master Fu would be disappointed in me giving up my mantle for the Turtle, something in my whole being tells me you were the true holder for Wyazz than I.”

    Nino stared at his friend and then gripped the bracelet in his hand, “…I don’t—”

    “You have always been a loyal friend. Protective and true where it counts. And you’re not the only one that makes mistakes here,” The red head reasoned as he gave a smile, “So…if Izuku thinks you should be Carapace again, I do not mind giving you back the mantle.”

    Nino sniffled for a moment, giving a one arm hug to Nathaniel and smiled, “…Thanks, man.”

    He placed the bracelet on and watched it glow, Wyazz appearing before him and was surprised when the Kwami hugged his face.

     “Duuuude~!” The Turtle Kwami let out a happy cry, which made Nino cry and pat the little guy’s head.

    “Duuuude~!”

     Meanwhile, Chloe stared down at the hairpin in hand then shook her head, walking towards Sabrina. She tried to hand it back to her, but was surprised when Sabrina refused.

    “Pollen knows you’re her true holder. And so do I.” Sabrina explained as she smiled at her best friend, “You may think that being Queen Bee was a fluke, but I’ve always believed you were made to be her,”

     “B-But…I’ve worked so hard being good…wh-what if I fall back to being the old Chloe again?”

     “That won’t happen,” Shoto tilted his head as he stepped beside her, “But then again, I do not know what ‘the old you’ was like. But Chloe-san is still Chloe-san at the end of the day. Someone that wishes to help her friends and do good. Someone exceptional.”

    Sabrina was relieved at his words, and she turned her head to watch Pollen appear before Chloe.

    “My Queen,” The swami bowed her head as she smiled happily, “Whatever you decide, I shall support you. But as I’ve told Queen Sabrina, you are my true Queen.”

    Deku watched quietly as Chloe teared up, but soon placed the hairpin into her hair and brought her confident face on. Good, he would think with a smile.

   “So…I shall not be holding a Miraculous this time?” Shoto asked, noticing Kirishima and Yaoyorozu were not given a Miraculous either.

   Deku grinned, “No. But I do have some ideas for you, Shoto. The same with Yaomomo and Eijiro.”

   Nathaniel hummed, looking down at the brooch in hand. Curious, he placed it over his chest and watched it glow, Duusu appearing before him with a smile

   “Oooohhh~ So cute~ And warm!” They cooed, nuzzling into the red head’s cheek. “Shall we?”

    “I suppose we shall,” Nathaniel chuckled, stroking the top of the Kwami’s head with a finger.

    Sabrina placed her Miraculous on and watched Rooar appear in front of her.

    “Oohhh I can sense a fighting spirit in you~“ The Tiger Kwami said with a grin, “Ready to fight, partner~?”

    “I-If you will have me!” The girl in glasses smiled, nodding her head.

    Momo watched them before looking over at Deku, “So who are getting the Dragon, Ox, Pig and Goat then?”

    Deku looked thoughtful for a moment.

   “I…might have an idea for the Dragon. But I’m gonna need help with the rest,” Looking to her, Shoto and Eijiro, he smiled, “This is where you guys come in.”

    Ladybug did notice that Momo, Shoto and Eijiro weren’t here and looked to Izuku questionably.

     “Where did they go?”

    “They have their own missions. Now…” Deku was looking at the new Dragon Heroine beside him, “Introduce yourself please~”

    Looking unsure, the young Dragon Heroine sighed before looking to Ladybug, smiling, “I’m…Zhulong. Nice to meet you, Ladybug. I’m a huge fan!”

   “Indeed she is. She even wears a costume of you—“ Izuku gulped a chuckle when the embarrassed Dragon Heroine nudged at him.

   “Er, nice to meet you, Zhulong?” Ladybug smiled a little before looking back at the One-For-All user, “And the rest?”

    Deku smirked, tilting his head, “On the way~”

  Shoto should’ve known that he he was going to be faced with a challenge. 

    “So we’re going to convince my half sister to de-akumatize herself, and if that doesn’t work, we’re gonna defeat her and get her to use the Pig Miraculous?” Queen Bee said in a deadpan tone, her and Shoto arriving back to the area where Sole Crusher was, “Yeah, as if the first plan will happen.”

   “We’ll have to try.” The fire and ice quirk user hummed as they rushed towards where Pixie Girl and Sorcerer were fending Sole Crusher back, but then blinked when two new faces arrived in the scene.

   “Lady Dragon!…And, um…?” Queen Bee looked astounded at a colourful bird themed hero next to the Chinese heroine, and frowned, “Who’s this clown?”

    “Thunderbird,” The new hero grinned as he saluted, “Nice to meet you, honeybee~” 

    The bee heroine narrowed her eyes, finding that cheeky look very familiar. 

    “About time bloody reinforcements are here!” The Sorcerer shouted at Shoto and Queen Bee and blinked, “Where’s King Stinger, and who…..?”

    A small smile was on Shoto’s face and Queen Bee raised a brow, and the magician like hero felt stupid for asking.

     “She’s gotten stronger since stepping on those civilians. We need a plan,” Pixie Girl breathed out with tiredness, “I’m already running out of juice as it is and might transform back…”

     “I have an idea,” Thunderbird raised a hand up before looking at Lady Dragon, “Distract Sole Crusher, I’ll go from behind. Honeybee, Candy Cane, with me.”

    “…Candy Cane?” Shoto raised a brow before Queen Bee snorted.

    “I think that’s you.”

    Lady Dragon looked at Thunderbird for a moment before touching his arm, looking worriedly at him, “Be safe.”

     The bird themed hero smiled, winking, “Naturally. I ain’t gonna lose here. Just have my back, m’kay?”

     Lady Dragon nodded, transforming into Lady Eagle and soon was flying into the sky to be in the akuamtized giantess’ face, making Sole Crusher roar and try to swat her away while Pixie Girl and the Sorcerer followed her lead. Thunderbird pursed his lips, turning to jump high onto a building, with Shoto and Queen Bee following after him.

    “So what’s your plan?” The Bee Heroine asked as Thunderbird landed gracefully onto the top of a tall building, staring at Sole Crusher.

    “First, we’re gonna need to distract Sole Crusher before I make my move and use my Miraculous.” Thunderbird hummed before looking at the two, “Honeybee, since I know your Miraculous can freeze things on the spot, I need you to sting at Sole Crusher to keep her still. As for you, Candy Cane, I’m going to need you at the ready when we destroy the akumatized object.”

    “It’s her shoes.” Shoto pointed out, and Thunderbird nodded.

    “Okay, good. So that means that once I got her distracted enough, you’re gonna have to use those quirks of yours to destroy them.”

     While that was going on, Lady Eagle shifted to Lady Dragon once more, flying over the skies as Pixie Girl and The Sorcerer were trying to keep her in place when they noticed Sole Crusher froze with wide eyes, looking at something. 

    “VENOM!” 

   Queen Bee yelled as she managed to prick the akumatized giantess and Shoto was quick to use his ice to freeze her into place just in case the Venom won’t last long.

    Thunderbird made a quick dash had landed onto Sole Crusher’s back and placed his hand onto her, his eyes glowing a soft golden hue. He soon raised his weapon, which happened to be a golden sickle, and waved it in the air.

   “Sorry, Zoe. Spirit Form: Unity.“

     Thunderbird felt the world melt around him into darkness, his body glowing as he stood alone in the abyss of blackness he was now standing on. Frowning, he walked around for a moment to find out where he was until he heard quiet sobbing. He followed the sound, letting his feet lead him until he stopped by a hunched looking figure. Zoe.

   Softening, the hero walked over to the girl and touched her head, making the blonde jump in surprise. Whirling around, tears were streaking down her face with her lower lip quivering, shoulders and chest heaving in a way as if trying to hold back from bawling.

   “Zoe…”

   “Leave me alone…” The small whimper came from the girl, curling herself back up again pathetically.

    “I can’t. You have to come back to your senses, Zoe.” Thunderbird murmured as he watched her, and Zoe scoffed.

   “It’s not like anyone wants me back. My father doesn’t. Rody certainly doesn’t.”

    Thunderbird tried to mentally not wince at that, and feeling even more awful that the statement she said was totally true. But it wasn’t the time to dwell on that.

   “Be as it may, if you don’t snap out of it, you’re gonna end up hurting more people than you are right now,”

   “I don’t care anymore,” Zoe murmured as she buried her face into her knees, hugging her legs close to her chest, “I just wanna disappear.”

    “Oh grow up, Zoe.” Thunderbird almost lost his temper and took a deep breath, noticing that there was a shadow-y butterfly lingering close by, “Seriously. Are you just going to keep feeling sorry for yourself?”

    Zoe looked up at him angrily with tears, “Why do you even care?!”

   “I don’t! I just want you to stop thinking of just yourself and hurting everyone around you!”

    Meanwhile, outside in reality, Lady Dragon transformed back to her humanoid form and stood with Pixie Girl and The Sorcerer, Shoto and Queen Bee rushing behind them. They all watched how  a glowing Thunderbird was so still and quiet along with a frozen looking Sole Crusher, as if time stopped for the both of them.

   “So this must be the power of his Miraculous?” The Sorcerer hummed, tapping his chin as he tilted his head, “What now? Do we wait? My magic could dispel the Akuma…however, I am afraid my power is not enough for one this big?”

    “We should get the Akuma now while he has a hold on her. At least when it breaks free, we could contain it before Ladybug gets here.” Lady Dragon murmured as she was soon approaching to Sole Crusher’s shoes, but was stopped by Queen Bee, “Wha—?”

    “We have to wait for Ladybug,” She stated to Lady Dragon with a frown, “Meaning we don’t touch until we can get in contact with her.”

    “It will be too late by then, and I don’t think Thunderbird can hold Sole Crusher for this long.”

      Suddenly, all five heroes heard a sound and whipped their heads to see Chimera rushing from building to building, jumping over them to reach behind Thunderbird’s back. Queen Bee growled as she was soon rushing u a building to stop him, Shoto using his ice to make steps for her to use to get up there. 

     “Don’t you touch him!” The Bee Heroine yelled as she was readying her fists, knocking the the wolf like man back from pouncing at Thunderbird, Shoto following her to make an ice wall in between them. 

   Lady Dragon, Pixie Girl and The Sorcerer following after them, ready to defend them off from the villain, but soon were surprised as a bunch of Nomus appeared out of nowhere.

    “W-what? How is this possible?” Shoto looked back to see the creatures, noticing the black swarming portals and frowned, ‘Does this mean Kurogiri is somewhere around here? But how?’

    Thunderbird blinked as he felt his surroundings shake for a moment, looking around before glancing over at Zoe now curled into a fetal position. He didn’t have time for this!

    “Okay, look,” The bird Miraculous holder crouched down before her as he rested his arms over his knees, looking at her tiredly, “I…am not good at this whole hero’s speech thing. Heck, I don’t think I’m cut out to be a damn hero in the first place.”

    He noticed Pino’s transparent form floating above him along with Lady, and then Lucky curling next to him. Pursing his lips, he placed his hand out for a moment, feeling Lady landing on his palm as she gave a soft ruby like glow.

    “I wonder…” He murmured as he closed his eyes and then whispered quietly, “…Lucky Charm.”

    A warmth spread from his fingertips as a weight was now placed in his hand. Opening his eyes, he blinked when he saw it was—

   “…Heh, what a terrible irony,”

   Zoe looked up at Thunderbird’s words, then her eyes widened as she sat up, seeing it were sneakers. The very ones that look a lot like what Rody bought her years ago, only…it was red with black polka dots.

   “…How—?”

   “I suppose my Lucky Charm wanted you to remember where you came from.”

    Thunderbird hummed as he saw how Zoe’s eyes wavered, almost teary as he then sighed.

    “It’s not too late to turn a new leaf. You can’t go back to what was, but you can move forward for a better tomorrow.”

    Zoe pursed her lips, as she sniffed. Thunderbird noticed that an outline of a butterfly appeared over her face, knowing that whoever has the Butterfly Miraculous now was trying to feed more negative energy.

   “B-But…I gotta c-crush those in my way…otherwise t-they’ll step all over me—“ 

   “You don’t have to crush anyone. There’s no such thing as winners OR losers,” The hero hummed as he felt Lucky nuzzling against his leg, reaching out to pet him, “There’s just…people. With a lot of unique differences and individualities…”

   Back outside,Lady Dragon flew over to where Thunderbird was, seeing the hero hasn’t move and eyes still glowing, “Thunderbird! Hurry it up in there—“

    “I’m not finished!“ The bird like hero bellowed, his voice mixed with various of others, which shocked the Chinese heroine.

    Thunderbird looked up at the darkness with a frown, before looking back at Zoe.

    “Zoe, you can start over. You can make new friends. You don’t have to take the abuse your father gives you. Just. Be. Yourself.”

   Zoe looked at him, and Thunderbird took this to continue.

   “You might trip, you might fall. And there will be always someone to help you back up…do not let the voices in your head win!”

    Zoe pursed her lips while thinking, and soon she was holding her head and groaning, “Get. Out. Of. My. Head….” 

    Thunderbird smiled as he was soon pushed out from Zoe’s head—

    Shoto managed to freeze Chimera in place, but then looked up when he heard a scream and saw that Sole Crusher broke away from the Akuma’s control, turning back into regular size Zoe. Thunderbird managed to create wings behind his back and flew to catch her, the two landing back on the ground.

    “NOW!”

    The Sorcerer yelled as he was spinning his star staff and raised it in the air, making a bubble around the GIANT AKUMA trying to attack them. Pixie Girl soon used her own magic to sprinkle over the bubble to create her own magical sphere to keep it in. Lady Dragon flew above them to aid Shoto into keeping Chimera frozen, and Queen Bee rushed to meet with Thunderbird, who was checking over Zoe.

   “W-wha…?” Zoe looked around for a moment, holding her head and frowning, “What happened?”

   “Quick, give her this!” Queen Bee was holding out what seems to be a pink anklet, and Thunderbird looked at her questionably.

   “Is that—?”

    “Zoe Lee.”

    Zoe looked up at the Bee Heroine, who rolled her eyes before pushing the Pig Miraculous into her hands.

    “I don’t have to explain. But if you wanna be useful, then help us.”

     “What are we doing here?”

     Eijiro frowned as he and Momo were now standing in what seems to be a police station. Bonnie Blanche brought them here to find the two individuals for the Ox and Goat Miraculous. 

    “Deku knew that we would find the perfect holders for these particular Miraculous. And I trust him.” Momo breathed out as she then was stopping to a black door, reaching to open it and step in.

    The two blinked when finding a blonde haired girl and a short dark haired girl sitting near a table, looking frightened and Eijiro placed his hands up to show they weren’t dangerous.

    “It’s okay. We’re friends…w-we were sent by Ladybug. Are you…Aurore-san?”

    “—And Mirielle-san?” Momo added.

    Aurore and Mireille blinked as they both nodded, making Eijiro and Momo relieved.

    “Ladybug is looking for us?” Mirielle asked.

    “Well, technically she and some others are hoping you’d help join the fight against the forces of evil. But, you don’t have to if you don’t think you can.” Eijiro assured as Momo was holding out the Ox and Goat Miraculous.

    “Aurore Beauréal. Mireille Caquet. We need your help.”

    Naomasa Tsukauchi was stepping into his office when he saw a bright light, blinking in surprise before getting into gear. He rushed over to the room where he had left the poor French girls in, and once he arrived, the room was empty. 

    “Wha—?”

   A laugh echoed behind him and the detective turned his head to see Crawler grinning at him.

   “Looks like someone swiped up your guests. Wonder who~?”

    “Crawler!”

   The vigilante shrugged, Crawler walking over to the room and then spotted what seems to be a piece of paper with writing on it. Picking it up, he read it quietly, then laughed as he placed a hand over his face, making Tsukauchi look at him weirdly.

   “What? What is it?”

  Crawler shook his head, a sharp grin stretching on his face, “Looks like things are going to get interesting~”

   ‘She’s quicker than I imagined.’

   Tsukuyomi growled as he was dodging Slice’s sharp hair extensions from hitting him along with her knives being thrown at him, Uncanny Valley and Sparrow aiding him to taking her down. The Jet Black Hero looked around, seeing his allies having their own battles going on. The Ghost Force already taking down the Mummy fellow, Deku and Bakugo were already having difficulty taking Nine down along with Ladybug and Chat Noir taking down Techlonizer as well. While the Pros and other Miraculous heroes were trying to help out, many Nomus ended up randomly popping out, making things quite difficult.

   Which left himself with his two teammates to take down the red haired villainess.

   ‘I need an opening!’

   “THIS IS PATHETIC!” Slice shouted with an evil grin, but yelped when Sparrow used their birdarangs at her.

    “UNCANNY! NOW!”

    The robotic girl flew above and raised her hand, shooting a laser beam at Slice, slicing bits of her hair completely.

    “THIS IS IT!” Tsukuyomi yelled, about to use Dark Shadow’s abilities until he saw that Slice did not appreciate her long luscious hair being cut off.

    Rage built in her eyes as she crazily started shooting spikes of her hair at them like needles, “HOW DARE YOU!”

     Sparrow dodged the flying projectiles with ease, bringing their skateboard down to ride away from it while Uncanny flew in the air. Unfortunately, a few embedded themselves onto Uncanny’s legs, making her yell out as she suddenly fell into an alleyway, crashing.

    “AEON!”

     Sparrow was quick to rush to check on her, seeing how the robot like girl powered down, showing the very hurt Aeon. Removing her mask, Jess reached over to check on her sister, the voice changer on the ground.

    “Aeon, no, please…”

     Tsukuyomi was frozen on the spot, anger boiling in him but then blinked when he felt warmth in his cloak. Quickly, the bird headed hero took out the necklace that he had taken from the museum and saw the object glow. Lo and behold, a bird like creature appeared before him.

   “Hello, my little fledging~! My name is Liiri, the Kwami of Freedom!“ They introduced happily, tilting their head and winked, “All you have to say is: Liiri, Wings of Liberty!“

    Nodding his head, Tsukuyomi  placed the talon necklace around his neck and shouted, “Liiri! WINGS OF LIBERTY!”

    In a flash, Tsukuyomi  felt the sensation of his clothes changing, and power surging into him, surprising not just Jess and Aeon, but it sent fear onto Slice as well.

   “No…w-what is this?”

    A new hero stood in Eagle like garbs, the Miraculous holder looking down at his gloved his hands before looking to Slice.

    “I am Spilornis. And you shall be brought to justice!” The new Eagle Hero spoke in a powerful and deep voice, already bringing his fingers locked together and clothes his eyes, a golden feather floated in front of him, “Liberation.”

    Suddenly, a scream escaped Slice for a moment as her body was glowing gold after the feather flew and landed over her heart, embedding into her. But after a minute, the light died down from her body and soon she fell forward with a thump.

    “Wha…?” Jess stood up and helped Aeon up as well, watching how Slice was unconscious on the ground and twitching, “What just happened? What did you do?”

    “Liberation does not work with those that would reject it.”

    Suddenly, Liiri appeared on Spilornis’ shoulder, shocking all three teen heroes, although the Eagle Hero blinked slowly.

     “What…how are you here?”

     “Aren’t Kwamis usually, like, stuck in the user’s suit?” Jess added, as Liiri cackled softly. 

     “It would seem thanks to your quirk, little fledging, your Dark Shadow allowed me to appear before you and talk with you. Quite rare and useful, if I do say so~”

      Spilornis hummed, looking at Slice’s body, “She…rejected Liberation?”

    “Indeed. For you see, once the feather is inside the target’s body, whoever is the Eagle Miraculous holder can free the recipient from any mental or emotional restriction of their choosing that prevents the recipient from reaching their full potential, such as a code of ethics, a vow to not do something, or the fear of the destructive potential of one's own power.”

    “So by rejecting it…?”

    “Her will to not be taken over by Liberation adjusted the spell into knocking her out for a good while.”

    “So she rather just be a bad person than to be good? That’s messed up,” Jess huffed and Spilornis looked at her, then at Aeon.

     “Aeon-san?”

    “I-I am alright…” She hummed and looked down at her leg that had the piercings from Slice’s locks, frowning, “But I thought my robotic shell would prevent me from being hurt…I…should not be even hurt?”

      Jess winced, then saw how Spilornis was looking at her and sighed, “Aeon…t-there’s something I gotta tell you. That maybe our moms should have told you—”

     “DIIIIIIIIIIE!”

    Bakugo yelled as he was aiming his explosives towards Nine, Deku jumping over him to deliver his Delaware Smash towards the villain but the two were soon pushed back by two blue water dragons, making them crash into a building before them. 

   “We should assist them!” Spilornis told the two, Jess nodding as she was soon placing her hood and mask on, forgetting about her voice changer while she soon easily carried Aeon in her arms.

    “I’ll take Aeon somewhere to safety. You go ahead,” Sparrow said and with the help of her skateboard, the two soon made their escape, and the Eagle Hero rushed to help his friends.

   Ladybug looked up from fighting Techlonizer and her eyes widened at the sight of Deku and Bakugo and looked towards Chat Noir along with Hitoshi,The New Tiger Heroine: Rayures and The New Peacock Hero: Avarius.

    “Guys, we need to take Techlonizer down NOW!”

    Ladybug soon made a run, Carapace ducking and bringing his shield up above him, providing as a spring board and pushed Ladybug to jump high above the akumatized villain. Raising for a kick, Ladybug dived down to Techlonizer, knowing that he has to block, Hitoshi following at her side to use his capture weapon to tie his metal arms.

    “RAYURES, NOW!”

    “CLOUT!” The Tiger Heroine yelled, sliding towards Techlonizer and aimed for his chest, punching him into the sky.

     Shinso was quick to use his capture weapon once he was coming down, and tying him up.

    “CATACLYSM!” Chat Noir yelled, jumping over her to destroy his cuffs, watching it disintegrate and a LARGE dark butterfly flew out of it, trying to escape.

    Carapace was soon using his shield to trap them in, looking over to also see that some escaped but the Ghost Force managed to corner them with their own powers.

   “No more evil doing for you, akumas!” Ladybug shouted, already spinning her yo-yo and quickly grabbed all the akumas together, and purifying them.

    “Ladybug! Here too!”

    Star Stallion had opened a portal as Thunderbird was poking his head in, but managed to duck when a frozen looking Chimera being thrown to the ground. Stepping out, Pixie Girl, The Sorcerer, Queen Bee, Shoto and a blonde pig themed heroine stepped out.

   “The akuma?” Ladybug asked, but blinked when the Pig Heroine stepped forward, already holding out what seems to be a large gift-wrapped box.

   “They are all in here, um, L-Ladybug.”

   Ladybug stared at her for a moment, tentatively taking the box and actually observing her, “And what is your name?”

    “Mangalica Majesty.”

    “Huh, what a name…” Ladybug hummed before opening the box and was prepared for the huge akuma, the Miraculous Team already on breaking it apart to tiny ones, and Ladybug cleansing all of them.

    “Bug! Bakugo and Deku!” Chat Noir interrupted, pointing up to Nine pinning his sapphire stoned dragons onto the heroes, “We gotta help them!”

    “Everyone, help the other heroes with the Nomus. Chat, let’s go.”

   The cat hero nodded, as the two then raced to reach their friends.

    “It’s you and me now, Chaton!” Ladybug looked over at her partner, who nodded.

    “You and me against the world once more. Let’s save our friends!”

    The two then froze in their steps, feeling a sudden surge of something go from their heads to the very soles of their feet. Ladybug and Chat Noir looked at each other for a moment, before looking up when everything was suddenly dead silence. As if the world has stopped around them. Shaking their heads, the two rushed towards Bakugo and Deku, jumping up to them and landing on top of the dragons’ heads.

    “Hold on! We’re getting you out!” Chat Noir yelled, already trying to pry the dragon’s mouth to open and release Deku.   

    Ladybug was already next to Bakugo, when she heard him murmur. Squinting at him, she learned closer to hear what he was saying.

    “…Won’t…lose…”

    “Huh? What are you saying now?” 

    The blond growled in annoyance, as he looked up at him, “..I…won’t…lose…”

    Chat looked over at them before looking down at Deku, “So? Any other tricks up your sleeve?”

    Deku gave a small grin, as he laughed weakly, “…Just one. But d-do you trust me?”

     Chat Noir blinked, but nodded his head, “Course. After all we’ve been through so far…”

    Deku looked over at Ladybug and Bakugo now, coughing out their names, which made them look over at him questionably.

    “Ladybug…Kacchan….I-I…I have a crazy…idea…”

   Bakugo was quiet as Ladybug looked confused.

   “There’s…only one way…to defeat Nine…”

   Something in Bakugo’s eyes clicked at that moment, and Ladybug looked between them.

   “What? W-what is it?”

    Deku held out his hand to them, desperation and hope in his eyes. Ladybug still didn’t understand what was going through the green headed hero’s head, but she figured Bakugo could understand what were his intentions judging the way he was reaching out. She looked down at the Lucky Charm in her hand that she had summoned a while ago…which happened to be tablet. The very same one she uses that contained the copy of the Grimoire. 

   Marinette looked surprised at Master Fu using her phone to picture each page of the Grimoire and sending it to what seems to be a personal Ladybug Tablet.

   “So…what was the reason of doing this?” She asked as she observed him, the Master smiling mysteriously.

   “One of these days I shall be gone. Which means that before then, you’ll need to study up on the Grimoire in your spare time before I shall pass it down to you and the other Guardians.” He explained.

    Adrien, who was next to Marinette as he was flipping his own copy in his Chat Noir tablet, made an ‘ooh~’ sound as he pointed something on screen, “No way~? We can actually give energy to people? Like a power boost?”

    “Only the Ladybug and Cat Miraculous can. As the two that are set to be the balance of the universe, they are indeed powerful enough to give strong, natural energy. Almost life energy,” Fu hummed, as he looked solemn, “I believe some theorise that this was one of the reasons that quirks were created in this day and age. That some previous holders of the Ladybug and Cat had unified with each other to give birth to the dawn of humans having powers of their own.”

    “So…does it count as a wish? Making quirks exist, I mean?” Marinette asked, as Fu shrugged.

    “Who knows? But I believe that you can give power to those that need it without wishing for it. But that is the choice of the Ladybug and Cat to decide…but it comes with a lot of consequences, of course.”

    Ladybug hummed as she looked at Chat Noir, as she gave a look. Somehow, Chat Noir understood with that one look, nodding his head. 

    Deku blinked as he felt Chat Noir place his hands onto his head, looking up at him for a moment to see what he was doing. The feline hero closed his eyes, something about his aura felt…light. Almost as if he was mustering up some sort of feeling. It made Deku’s insides swell.

    Ladybug was doing the same, as she had placed her hands onto Bakugo’s spiky hair, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. 

    A pink like glow formed around Ladybug, growing brighter and brighter as Chat Noir was the same, only the light shining off of him was green. This made both Bakugo and Deku look at each other, before once more reaching out to each other. The finger tip of Deku’s almost touched Bakugo’s that had a bloody cut, almost grazing each other’s hands before quickly grabbing a full hold.

     Thunderbird's eyes glowed for a moment as his head tilted.

    He saw lines of green and orange strings around not just Bakugo and Deku…but around Ladybug and Chat Noir as well.

Comments and Love are appreciated~ See you in the final chapter of this New York Arc. Because after this, it's the main plot again~

- Riri-Chan

[lady-de-mon-coeur]

Can't Help Falling For You (1221 words) by FelicisMagic18873

Chapters: 1/1

Fandom: Miraculous Ladybug

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Relationships: Chat Noir/Lady Bug, Adrien Agreste | Chat Noir/Marinette Dupain-Cheng | Ladybug

Characters: Adrien Agreste | Chat Noir, Marinette Dupain-Cheng | Ladybug

Additional Tags: Fluff and Angst, Love Confessions, Cat Puns, Lady Noir - Freeform, Chat gets the love he deserves, Hurt/Comfort, Denial is Ladybugs middle name, In this house we love Chat Noir

Series: Part 1 of Miraculous Writing

Summary: "What if I snore while snuggling?"

"I'll just buy earplugs,"

"What if I am clumsy, like mad clumsy? "

"I'll make it a habit to catch you,"

"Maybe I eat with my mouth open,"

"My lady if I can live with Plaggs undying love for stinky cheese, I can definitely live with that."

"What if-What if-" Ladybug was truly getting desperate now, "What if I am just a boring girl that can never measure up to ladybug?" Chat stilled. Ladybug realize.d she might have said more than she intended to.-----

Ladybug decides to talk Chat out of his crush for her by making him realize that he might end up not liking who she was behind the mask. It decidedly goes out of hand pretty quickly.

[morphomixz]

Eclipsed in Paris (Miraculous x Reader) Pt 6

"You mean to tell me this is all because she thinks you're dating??!" I partially shout-whispered to Chat. 

"Would that be such a bad thing if we were?" he questioned but soon shut it given my expression showing I was less than pleased with the feline masked crusader.  Then my attention was turned back to Ladybug when her voice broke the tension. 

" A superhero never lies! We won't admit to something that's not true." Ladybug exclaimed which made Chat Noir's face drop. Prime Queen is visibly angered by this statement as she demands, "I want my scoop!" while accelerating the train somehow. In a corner, the three of us huddled to determine our course of action.

"I'll use my cataclysm." Chat Noir said in hushed tones, to which Ladybug replied, "No wait, we might need it for an emergency." which was honestly smart. It's better only one of us risks de-transforming at one time. Though Chat did argue back with an indignant tone saying, "Yeah, like right now!" Clearly trying to play mediator I said, "Calm down, arguing will get us nowhere, and we have to get Chloe off this train. Chat mayhaps Ladybug has an idea. Your cataclysm may do even more damage to the train." Turning to Ladybug, we both listened to her when she said, "We have to lure her over here first or we'll never capture her akuma! So let's just play along with her, at least it'll buy us some time." Now that I couldn't completely agree with it. Breaking one's principles and lying on a worldwide stage isn't the best idea, which is something I learned personally, so I offered another solution. "Or I could always lure her over with the identity of a new super. You know, since I used my special ability a while ago now." I said knowing the likelihood of it working now that Prime Queen has two scoops to go for. 

"It'll be easier for you to slip away and feed your kawami if we do this quickly. You're running low on miraculous energy and Chat Noir doesn't mind," Ladybug whispered to me. So, now we have some form of plan... 

Moving towards the back of the compartment where Chloe was, I stabilize her by holding her upright, while Ladybug "confesses", "Okay Prime Queen" she says while holding a shocked kitty's hand, "You win. I confess, Cat Noir and I are dating like you said. We are.." she starts to hesitate, " in..love." which led Prime Queen to abruptly stop the windowless train and sending Chloe as well as myself tumbling onto the floor. Ladybug and Chat Noir go flying into the wall with her landing on his chest, and he made a purring noise.

" Did I just hear you purr?" Ladybug questioned him clearly not liking that he was enjoying their predicament. Nervously, Chat Noir answered with a weak, "Uh, no way!" I smirked lightly, and teasingly I said "Oh, he so did," earning myself a micro glare from the cat. 

Anyways, cyber tech crazy lady decided she wanted something more. Typical reporters. "Our two heroic lovebirds are saving their fan's life and their new partner's by admitting their true feelings. Our viewers are going crazy! But, our TV ratings haven't maxed out yet. You must do better!" she said.

"ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! THEY ADMITTED THEY'RE IN LOVE BUT YOU STILL NEED MORE PROOF?!" I yelled at the screen only to be ignored by the crazy lady with the iPad. Stupid iPad adults. 

"Then come and join us, Prime Queen. You're the host and the star of the show after all. Then you'll have your ratings." Ladybug taunted the cyber lady. I dare her to come here, I'll kick her halfway to Lousianna if she does. Then a purple butterfly surrounded her eyes, and a voice quiet enough to talk to her only, but hearable if you have ultrasonic hearing gave her instructions, "Order them to give you their Miraculous!" the sinister voice commanded. Then Mrs. Roboto said, "My show, my rules, Ladybug! To prove that your feelings are genuine, you're going to have to take off your masks, which means you must all give me your Miraculous! Even you newbie." 

"Yeah, that's not happening lady." I said nonchalantly, which was followed by Ladybug's "Not a chance, Prime Queen!" I just happened to glance over at the kitten, only to see a strange smile on his face. Does he know how creepy he looks when he does that face? He grabs Ladybug by the shoulders while exclaiming, " Wait, I know how we can prove our feelings." giving her a wink, while I step away from that situation, "Pucker up!" which has Prime Queen at the edge of her seat. Again, typical reporter and fangirl behavior. Though Ladybug was thoroughly unimpressed by Kitten's antics, she declines with a, "Not a chance, kitty." I'll admit, he tried, and his disappointment was evident so I gave him a quick hip bump with a small demure smile. Then the screen turned black. "Is the show over?" Chat asked while knocking on the previously lit-up screen. This is bad...

"If we can't get to her, we'll never be able to capture her akuma!" Ladybug exclaimed in a worried tone. Just then, the screen turned back on, and displayed Prime Queen in the Louvre., particularly, she was with a sarcophagus. "My dear viewers, you are in for the reveal of a lifetime!" she said with a cackle opening the sarcophagus to reveal a tied-up Alya within.  Or at least I think her name's, Alya. "Ladybug, help me, please!" she pleaded despite not seeming all that scared. Just how messed up are Paris teens if situations like this don't give them PTSD? Then the robo-chick started asking facetious questions, "Oh wait, isn't this the girl who started the famous Ladyblog? The first one who ever filmed Ladybug?"

I turned to Chat and whispered, "What's a Ladyblog? Is it some kind of women's health forum?" I don't quite understand why he laughed at first, but then he blushed before he explained it to be a blog dedicated to Ladybug mostly, but sometimes showcases himself as well as other superheroine content. So, I guess it's not a women's blog... Anyways, back to the battle, seeing Alya bound in the glittering tomb, Ladybug clearly was distressed given her cry of "No, Alya!" I guess she cares about her fans.

"Next trial, your Miraculous! Or else your biggest fan will be mummified!" the cackling cyborg-esq woman declared, then the screen turned bright like it was devoid of anything. Chat almost fell through it, and my miraculous beeped indicating I had a mere few minutes left before I assume I detransform. I really should have paid more attention to Bazoo's instructions. "Ladybug, Chat Noir, I may have to stay behind a few minutes to feed my kwami. Hope you don't mind." I told them before Ladybug turned to Chat to say "Let's leap in before she runs! Come through when you're fully charged!" The two disappeared into the abyss leaving me and Chloe.

"Hey! Ugh, wait! What about me? Someone get me out of here!" Chloe complained. I forced her out of the train, before de-transforming completely while ducking down below the windows, as the train began moving again. 

"Bazoo, eat up. Looks like we're going to have to third wheel this venture," I said handing the bat creature a few blackberries from my bag. Once she was full, it was time to strike. "Bazoo! Spread my wings!" 

It's not so strange the second time around when the latex leather takes over my original attire. Though I will say it feels better to no longer have the mask on. Leather masks aren't the most breathable material. With that, I step through the white screen only to be met with Chat Noir and Ladybug in a freezer. 

"What'd I miss?" I asked aloud. "Not much," Chat replied. "She hasn't said anything since we arrived, so I assume she was waiting for you too," Ladybug informed me. "Well, clearly we're not at the Louvre," Chat said. While struggling to open the freezer door, Ladybug managed to deduce, "It was a double-cross!" Then the backing returned. Cackling alongside the crackling of the broadcast. "Uh, Cataclysm?" Chat Noir suggested. Ladybug being frustrated wasn't the best at handling the situation, yelling at Chat saying, "There's no point! We're probably far away from the Louvre! By the time we get there, it'll be too late to save Alya!"  

"So, are you two going to kiss or what?" I asked getting tired of this business. I just want to go home now... Huh, home? Do I mean New York or the Grand Hotel? Eh, I'll figure it out later. Chat leaned in closer to Ladybug but she stopped him with a simple "Still not a chance, Cat Noir." which disappointed him causing me to pat him lightly on the back in solidarity which he leaned in to.  

" The time has come to push those ratings sky-high! Let's try this again. Remove your Miraculous and reveal your true selves! The whole world is watching you!" came a command from Prime Queen. Like hell, I'm going to do that. I don't know these people. Then the blue-purple butterfly outline showed up...again. Ultrasonic hearing allows me to listen to the instructions. 

"The perfect plan, Prime Queen. They're cornered! Their Miraculous are mine!" came the gravelly voice. I swear I've heard it before, but who?

Pulling on the sarcophagus holding Alya up, Prime Queen said, "There's no use looking for a way out!" and I think she may have rattled Alya a bit because I heard a faint "Ow." from within. "Unless you want to see your biggest fan in deep water." came from Prime Queen's side of the recording. Little to say, we all gasped at that. "Hurry up, you three. Don't wanna keep your audience waiting." taunted Prime Queen while sliding Alya's coffin further over the water.  

"You're right! Lucky Charm!" called out Ladybug before a red-bespeckled tape roll appeared out of nowhere. I'm guessing she knows what to do with it.  "A tape roll? What am I supposed to do with this? Hmm... " Ladybug said while looking around. You've got to be kidding me... She doesn't know what to do with it yet?! Apparently, she decided what to do because she began pulling out random drawers in the freezer. Anxiously, Chat Noir said to her without regard to my existence, "Hurry up, she's about to push Alya into the water!" "I need a minute" "Give her a minute," we both said to him at the same time as she pulled out yet another drawer only to be met with a whiney, "That's too long!" from Chat.

"Listen to the cat." came the condescending voice of Mrs. Roboto as she pushed the sarcophagus further through the screen. Just then, Ladybug found what she was searching for apparently, as she pulled out... a pizza box? "Voilà! " Ladybug said while handing the box to Chat and taping it over the screen, effectively covering Prime Queen's view. Smart idea, and it draws her to us instead of accepting the ultimatum. Based on the audio, it appears to have worked given the resounding, "What's happening?" that came from Prime Queen's side of the broadcast. 

From behind the blackened screen, Prime Queen hears Ladybug say, "Fine, you win, Prime Queen. We'll remove our Miraculous. The whole world will see us without our masks!" Looking over at Chat, we made eye contact and had one singular thought between the two of us. Teasingly, Chat and I call out "And We're about to kiss! Shame you're missing it!" "And They're about to kiss! Shame you're missing it!"

 "So unlucky!" came Ladybug's reply. It was silent for a few moments following our comments when Prime Queen said, " If you're lying, you're going to regret it." she punched through the screen with the pizza box covering effectively bringing her into the freezer with us. She fell right into our trap. Chat broke the screen with his staff while effectively making sure our trap snapped shut saying, "And now you're stuck with us." Like a caged animal she tried to attack us, only to be subdued by Ladybug's yo-yo, hit in the head with my boomerang, and her watch broken by Chat's staff. A little purple-black butterfly flew out of the crack in her watch, which I assume is the akuma.

"Cataclysm!" Chat Noir announces and his hand is suddenly surrounded by black floating particles. When he touches the door with that hand, the particles appear to go into it at a molecular level, destroying it completely to the point where it crumbled right before our eyes. "Ladies first!" I stepped out first saying nothing to Chat but smiled to myself. The Ladybug declared,Thank you! No more evildoing for you, little akuma. Time to de-evilize!" before catching the butterfly within her yoyo, exclaiming, "Gotcha!" She releases it and it had become pure as snow white. She bid it farewell before throwing the tape dispenser into the air where it became millions of magical ladybugs thatput everything back to how it was. I assume Chloe was sent back to her room, Alya to wherever she was prior to Prime Queen absconding her, and Prime Queen herself turned back into the reporter. Though by the sound of it, it appears being akumatized may be like sleepwalking since she was confused when she stammered out, "W-w-what just happened?

Ladybug and Chat Noir held out their fists in the middle, gesturing for me to join in, saying "Pound it!"

Ladybug had to run, though I know she had questions... Questions I think may pertain to my becoming a superhero. She ran off leaving Chat Noir and I alone. "So Rogue, mind telling me how you gained a miraculous?" he asked. "I'd let you know, but it appears you have mere minutes left, kitten" I replied with a smirk before heading out myself. "MY NAMES CHAT, NOT KITTEN," he yelled as I ran away.

 Ducking into an alley near the hotel, I de-transformed. Hurrying quickly through the back stairwell, and back to my room. I requested some blackberries for Bazoo and fell back onto the couch in my room. Scrolling through my phone I note three missed calls, 1 from Auntie which she's likely displeased at, I need to call her back quickly, and two from an unknown number. I called my Aunt back, only to get berated for not picking up when she called the first time. She wants at least one demo song before the end of the month, my appointment to formula-test the makeup line in on Friday, my clothing line sketches need to be started by next Tuesday, and I have a modeling gig for Mr. Agreste's new line in the park on Sunday. I wish she'd understand that things take time and effort to be good. The unknown number left a voicemail the second time around.

"Um, hi Y/N. This is Dante. I know you blocked my number and that you said you never loved me, but I'd like to try to be friends if nothing else. You know, considering we practically grew up together... Anyways, I'll be in Paris in a few months to film a new movie. I'll understand if you block me again, but if you don't, I'll take that as you being open to seeing me again... Um, yeah that's it. Bye."

Seriously? Dante is coming to Paris?! Did Auntie set this up so there could be a huge reunion? Or does he actually want to be just friends? You know after everything I put him through, I thought he'd hate me. Maybe it's time to start a new chapter, one that's real. I turned off my phone, not blocking him, at least for now. It' been a long day, and running around as some kind of superhero burns a lot of calories, not to mention energy. I changed into my pajamas and headed off to bed. Of course, I checked on Chloe first to make sure she was okay. 

A few days later, there was a new version of the reporters show "Face to Face" only this time with Alya. 

 "Don't be bemused, it's just the news! Hi, I'm Nadja Chamack, and this is Side by Side. Today, I'm joined by Alya Césiare, who created the Ladyblog! Together, we'll be looking back over Cat Noir and Ladybug's greatest feats. As well as new hero Rogue's debut." Nadja said. "Hello Nadja! Hey fans! So, first of all, I gotta set the record straight. Cat Noir and Ladybug are not a couple! Well, not yet at least. Sorry to break the news." Alya stated to the camera. 

I think Paris is going fine, though its a bit strange, and now I'm a superhero. Friends were a new thing for me, being a superhero's allowed me to express part of my personality that I've hidden away, but I still don't know if this is home. Huh, Face to Face... I think I may have found a new song idea...

[aanabear2803]

Ok like. I have spent $60 on the miraculous kinder joys. I have

3 Shadowmoths

2 Eagle girl

2 Lady Dragon

2 Ladybug

1 Cosmobug

Where is Chat Noir. I swear to god I cant keep buying kinderjoys T-T

[littlewalken]

Mar 17

Acorn tank squirrel army

I have the gray sugar glider and if there's any left when I go back to that store I'm getting more.

Well, since we're serious about looking at places to move to (while this place was a blessing in a time of need even it knows that it's nowhere for ladies or broads) it goes without saying just be upfront you don't want disabled people or those on rental assistance living there before we all waste time on the tour.

Sorry I got a college degree and worked until a doctor made me stop before my seizures could have caused a situation where I could have injured someone else and then I continued to live what I feel is a responsible life. Won't go any further but I have had enough personal experience to warrant my license to call bullshit.

More real life today but it'll put me by the store that sells Miraculous Ladybug stuff and I want to get a Marinette. I'm half tempted to buy a couple more Chat Noirs for the Robot heads but 1 I haven't tried to cast the push molds I made in wax too see if they get small enough and 2 I found the super glue so I can just put jewelry eye screws in the little helmets and deal.

Some of my other charms are pretty big, like the size of US quarters.

If the place we're moving to has a fridge we're going to leave the one we have here, got it free from the electric company almost 20 years ago anyway, and look at the prospect of moving everything ourselves somehow.

Once again I would like to thank my fuck up of a sister for making sure that no one in our near by family even wants to speak to us and she can rot in hell with the out of state branch who stole from us when we were homeless, their lazy greedy asses deserve each other.

The able bodied neighbors around here are drug addicts and neither of us speak enough Spanish or Portuguese to get other kids of help.

But we did it before, with twice as much stuff because for some stupid reason at the time we had to store my sister's boxes of trash too, so this time can't possibly be like the last.

[marrys-dream-world]

Quick Rockeater Translations

Feel free to ask any questions or request secene translations.

I think it’s so cute that Gloob does this little challenges throughout the episode. Today’s was: how many times does Nino’s phone show up?

Nino: do you think t-rexes eat a lot?

The lady literally brought the dinosaurs back to life and Bot Roth wants to buy them to build a park (references, anyone?)

Nino was upset Rena Rouge wasn’t there and LB said it was because they only needed Carapace.

Alya’s new look is camouflage.

Marinette asks if she told Nino she’s never going to be Rena again and Alya doesn’t want to tell him. She wants to tell him the turth because they don’t have secrets and if Nino finds out, he’ll never trust her again. Marinette says it’s necessary and says she hasn’t played with her father in months and has to lie to her family all the time.

Alya comes all “we need to talk” to Nino and says everything between them will change and Nino immediately assumes she doesn’t love him anymore. She tells him she will never be Rena again and he says that’s a pity, but it’s for her safety and she shouldn’t be so scared to tell him. 

Marinette: soon our nightly stroll will begin and they start to talk in code. Alya really wants everyone to know she’s “Sneaky Rena” (that’s how she calls herself now) and wants to post Sneaky Rena selfies on the Ladyblog. Marinette says she can’t and she says she’ll post about Chat then. 

Nino is really upset with Rena x Noir and Alya says it’s just a movie. Movie! Ladybug: “Rena is right, Chat Noir, you and Rena will be much better together”.

He heard her talking about content for the Ladyblog with Marinette and wants to see. It was the Sneaky Rena selfies so she doesn’t show him and he’s suspicious of it. 

The children are arguing about who Chat Noir likes, LB or Rena. The boy says “Well, I’m Chat Noir and all girls like me.” 

Nino tells Adrien Alya likes Chat Noir and he’s like “what’s next? She likes Jagged’s crocodile too?” and after Nino says he’ll find proof and hang up, Plagg says maybe Adrien is catching his bad luck. So he will go talk to her to see if maybe she’s into him to set things straight.

Nino, narrating in black and white: “who would want a turtle? Nobody can resist a cat”

Chat Noir asks her if she feels anything for him and she laughs and says he’s crazy and she has a boyfriend. They hug and he says “sorry”. Alya says Nino is much more irresistible than Chat and that she would never fall in love with someone whose identity is a secret. 

Nino shows Adrien the pictures and he says it’s a misunderstanding for sure, Alya is just a fan and that she would never fall in love with someone she doesn’t know, because. Nino tells Adrien that Alya is Rena and he’s Carapace. 

Adrien: “you and Alya know each other’s identity? I thought secret identity should be hidden all the time, Ladybug would never approve.” Nino: “Ladybug gave us the miraculous at the same time.” Adrien is really shocked and doesn’t believe it. He’s really upset they know each other’s identity and Ladybug let them know. He thought secret identities were sacred. 

Nino told Adrien that Ladybug thinks Chat is annoying, that’s why she rejects him. That’s why he’s all charming to Rena and trying to steal her away. 

Ladybug to Rena; you said that if he heard you guy’s conversation he wouldn’t think you were dating? Can you make an audio illusion?

Chat Noir asks Nino to talk to him, please, and let him explain. Of course Rockeater does not care. 

Ladybug says she has a projector to show what happened that night with her Lucky Charm and Rockeater pauses to hear. 

Nino: “Shadow Moth, you can keep your lame powers.”

Nino says he doesn’t need the anti-akuma charm (because he’ll never doubt Alya again), but takes it.

Nino: sorry to doubt you, man. Chat Noir: “everyone has doubts sometimes, even me.”

Adrien: “I can’t believe she gave them that miraculous. They know each other’s identities and are a couple. Why does that rule even exist?” Plagg; “she’s the guardian, we’re just the cheeses and she decides the menu.”

Alya tells Nino she’s still Rena Rouge and that she can’t hide it from him bc she loves him.

[kisilinramblings]

You know, when Ladybug was giving Miraculous temporarily to people, no one made comments such as “She should consult Chat Noir beforehand”. Though we did got “Chat Noir should be giving Miraculous to people too!” while in canon, what CN did mind was to be left completely in the dark about what was going on, not the fact he couldn’t partake in the decisions nor the selection of potential candidates. Because the powers and the people LB selects are part of LB’s plan to defeat the Akumatized villains. 

But when Ladybug decides to give the Fox Miraculous permanently to Alya so she can be Marinette’s backup ressource, there are people upset she didn’t meet with Chat Noir and discuss about that decision with him? 

Like what changed?

I do agree we are heading toward an episode similar to Syren if Ladybug still keeps Chat Noir too much in the dark again that makes him feel useless or question his presence in the team. But that people get mad on Chat Noir stead for not being “consulted” on a decision that has always been up to LB? Especially that she is now the official Guardian and Chat Noir respects and follows her lead and convulated plans? 

Even when, during Miraculer, when CN saw that Chloé was still lighting her Bee Signal and realized that LB didn’t yet take the time to tell Chloé the truth, Chat Noir just reminder LB to go talk to Chloé instead of offering to go in LB’s place. Why? Because it is LB’s role.

Even when, during Furious Fu, Chat Noir tells Ladybug he will accept to give back his Miraculous if only Ladybug decided so because she is the only Guardian in his eyes? Because he trusts her?

I mean, Chat Noir isn’t oblivious either. He notices things too. He has his own point of view and LB usually listens to him. And Chat is usually open to express himself unless he has been hurt. That’s when he shuts down. But otherwise? He supports LB however he can contribute. 

All that to say that at the end of Optigami, when CN asked LB how she knew there was a sentimonster hidden inside the Miraculous, LB answered him:

“Thanks to my Lucky Charm, Kitty. It always shows me the right way, but this time, I was shortly led astray”.

And you see his reaction. 

He gets serious. He doesn’t say anything yet, but mentally seems to take notes.

That day, Chat Noir wasn’t able to be much by her side or so he thinks, but that doesn’t mean he cannot be the support LB needs. If Chat Noir sees Ladybug be led astray again during one of their missions, Chat Noir will remind her and raise a flag. 

Because he has the knowledge and power to do so. He has the objectivity precisely because he isn’t personally involved. Because he knows they need a focused Ladybug to succeed. Whereas all the temporary Holders are “sidekicks” who follow LB’s lead and authority. Including Alya. Heck she has tried to take some initiative and regretted it because it almost lead the Bad Guys to know Ladybug’s secret identity. So chances are very high Rena will just stick to LB’s plans because she doesn’t want to put her best friend in danger again. Whereas Chat Noir is more at ease to propose things and work with and around LB’s plan so she can succeed.

Anyway, even if Chat Noir knew about the whole Ladybug and Rena Rouge ordeal at this point, even if Ladybug did ask him what he thinks about it, I wonder if really Chat Noir’s opinion would have mattered in the balance. I assume it would have ended like how LB didn’t understood what her Lucky Charm was trying to warn her about until the very last minute. 

It was fitting Ladybug was fused into Lady Bee for this episode. Because the Bee Miraculous is used by someone who can defy authority. And that was what Lady Bee was doing. Defying the omniscient guidance of her Lucky Charm. It is only when Ladybug was back as herself that she questions why her Lucky Charm didn’t have any use to defeat the supervillain this time around. 

Anyway, is Marinette making the wrong decision by permanently giving Alya the Fox Miraculous? I think Trixx did point out the issue.

“See? I am right, even if I am not”.

Marinette knows who to trust, however like any human, her biases, her emotions and traumas can cloud her decisions. We want to believe every character and person will react logically to a situation they are personally living. Spoilers alert, unless they are a machine or from a race that has no emotion, they won’t. And Marinette is mentally recovering from a severe breakdown. And who ended up being her life raft during that difficult period? Alya. 

Marinette does have a point. She needs someone who can be her backup when she is unable to transform. She cannot always count on the Kwamis since their respective power comes with a chaotic aftermath. She can be in a position where she thinks it isn’t safe to transform. 

She has Chat Noir who can stall the villain and buy time but it is only if he manages to be there on time too. And after witnessing the Chat Blanc timeline, Ladybug is avoiding as much as she can to trigger it back. Adrien discovering her secret identity was one piece, but there was another piece concerning Chat Noir and her and that is was she is afraid of and that concerned their secret identity that was later found out and used by Hawk Moth to akumatize Chat Noir.

And then, there is Alya to whom Marinette revealed herself when she was at her lowest and who have been nothing but helpful ever since. Alya is now so much involved with Marinette either as a superhero or a civilian. And Marinette relies on Alya. And now, it looks Marinette is starting to depend on her maybe too much that it will affect Alya in a way she is unprepared for. I’ll keep an eye on Alya’s relationship with Nino. It sure did shake her to find out she had been fooled by SM and that she didn’t realized the being in front of her wasn’t the real Nino. 

Alya is a good and trustworthy ally. She does learn from her mistake and works to do better, but I agree Marinette didn’t seem to have made the most enlightened decision there and Chat Noir’s opinion would probably have changed nothing. 

By wanting to be relieved and have someone to back her up, I think Marinette is not clearly seeing the burden she is imposing on Alya. 

Btw, I am personally presuming that even if Alya could transform at any given opportunity now, it doesn’t mean Rena Rouge will be present all the time on the team during patrols or Akuma attacks. Rena Rouge would still be on-call when the power or Illusion is needed. Like how she had access to the Miracle Box, but still waited for Marinette’s instructions. 

Still, i wonder how much time it will take for Chat Noir to point out LB is maybe relying too much on Rena Rouge and putting her in danger more than necessary.

[arty-shadow-morningstar]

A Failed Betrothal (4)

Am I doing this right? I mostly do write this when I am between the state of sleep and awareness. Hope you enjoy this.

[Masterlist]

(Part 1) (Part 3)

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PART 4

Marinette came to a dungeon cell with two other prisoners. One of them was awake and he looked vaguely familiar. The other had an ugly red helmet that didn’t help with the headache she had.

“Do you know where we are?” She asked the handsome stranger with beautiful green eyes, her throat a little dry.

Wait. Handsome?

No bad Marinette. Don’t fall for fellow prisoners, no matter how cute he looks. Oh Kwamis, she was already screwed.

He still hadn’t replied. Maybe he didn’t understand French. She tried to ask again in another language before her enhanced hearing picked up the sound of footsteps. She faked unconsciousness. Later, she heard the iron door open. She looked through the tiniest slits of her eyes she could muster while the two held a staring/glaring match. Oh shit, that’s the fame Talia Al Ghul, daughter of Ra’s, head of the League of Shadows, and the boy she was glaring at had some resemblance to her, so he must be her son, Dennis? Daniel? Damon?

"Damian, I hope you know what you should do."

Ohh..Damian. Where had she heard that name before?

"To be forcefully married to that little girl. She is no one special. Why am I getting married to her?"

Ouch, that hurts. Well, Damian, just because I forgot your name does not mean you can call me a little girl. I can also kill you very easily and painfully.

“Well, Jason, you are awake. You can be the best man for the wedding.”

“No. I don’t know what game you are playing but you better release us. B is gonna find us and you will pay. Let the girl go. She is innocent in all of this.” Red Helmet, Jason, is officially not going on her hit list for his atrocious fashion choices. But that red monstrosity still needs to go.

"Ladybug may not seem like it but she possesses great power that my father converted for centuries. Speaking of, she should be awake by now."

Marinette felt her hair being yanked. A little pain was expected but the really sharp claws digging into her scalp was not. Making her cry and tear up.

”I am so sorry, kit.” Plagg whispered in the kwami language, loosening his claws.

"Tch, See, she is more pathetic than I thought. She is not powerful." Damian growled out.

Geez, thanks for the compliment, it’s not like you ever had a tiny cat dig its claws into your scalp out of surprise. (Damian once had a kitten thrown at his head and if he knew about Plagg, he would have been sympathetic.) Marinette started begging for mercy, hoping they would buy the helpless girl out of the suit that is ill-suited for the job she had been chosen for and had no idea on how to escape.

“Like I thought, weak. She is not deserving of the title of my wife.”

Oh kwamis, what did she ever do to have such a picky groom? The more he insults her, the less she wants to be married to him.

"Appearance can be deceiving. Despite her demeanor, she is the current wielder of the Ladybug Miraculous and the Current Guardian. The old Guardian, the old fool had promised her in exchange for his protection."

Great, another reason to stop her mother from killing a senile old man.

"That doesn't mean I want to marry her. She is not worthy of an Al Ghul or a Wayne. Look at her, crying at the slightest feeling of pain."

So that’s where she heard it from. The boy was the son of the daughter of a guy who leads a secret order of assassins and a man that owns a multi-million business. How even did a billionaire meet an assassin, ends up in bed with her and lives? Something to think about for later. She quieted down her sobs, (beat that acting, Rossi) kept her voice low to hatch out a plan with Plagg in the kwami language while the mother-son duo bickered.

“Hey, Plagg before you go, you think I can do that thing, the one which your one of your past holders from Japan can do.”

“You have a lot of potential for destruction but you have not used the ring for a long time yet so I am not sure.”

“I will give it a go anyways. Nothing to lose after all. See you later, Plagg.” Marinette smiled, one that drove fear into the hearts of even the bravest of people. Plagg returned it, already loving the new Guardian before zipping out of the cell to do some scouting. Using the enhanced strength the French superheroine got from prolonged use of the Miraculous, she yanked the chains of the walls and wrapped them around Talia’s neck, cutting off her air supply.

The League of Assassins thought that they could kidnap her and get away with it. But they were no match for the daughter of Sabine Cheng, the deadly Blue Reaper. A high ranking member from the group of assassins and mercenaries called the Guild of Night, who had semi-retired. Kidnapping her was a bad move to make as it meant they had declared war on the Guild, despite the reason behind her abduction having a completely different intention.

She whispered as such to the older woman in her tight grip, making sure the League would know how much they had fucked up. After dropping the limp body, she took a deep breath and tried channeling some of her energy for what she was about to do.

Well, here goes nothing.

She breathed out on the shackles, turning it to rust.

Success!

She introduced herself as Lady and concentrated the energy from before into her hand, forming inky black orbs of destruction in order to free her fellow captives. She felt a little drained from doing magic out of the suit and tried not to show it. Plagg returned, informing her of where the Ra’s and the Pits were. She grinned at the thought of showing old Ra’s who the boss is and made sure he regretted ever messing with her. She explained about Plagg as vaguely as she can, no need to let anyone know about the miraculous than necessary. Sure her plan sounds insane but the boys don’t know who they were with.

She would worry about that curse after she got out of Nanda Parbat. Although she could probably find something in the grimoire to reverse it, she was still an amateur at magic so it was best to have a professional to take care of it. Marinette didn’t want to be with such an asshole, no matter how striking he looks in those regal robes.

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Picking off the League assassins, one by one was easy especially in her transformed state. She hadn’t appraised her suit properly but from what she had seen, it wasn’t like Chat Noir’s leather get-up. She was armoured in vital areas and her colour scheme was mainly black with green accents. There were vials that were probably poisons and pouches which she decided to look at later. She still had a long braid as a tail from her brief stint as Lady Noire and she wondered why her suit was different. While hiding in a niche she found, she called the bakery via the comm in one of her various pouches.

“Hello?”

“Papa, it’s me, Marinette. Do you know where Maman is?”

“She went out of Paris, talking about how this League must pay. I think she is meeting up with several of her old friends. Are you alright, my little blossom? I know you can take care of yourself but I worry.” The relief in Tom’s voice was palpable. However, she was right and the Guild was going to war against the League. Marinette was adored by nearly everyone in the Guild due to her strangely bubbly and cheery personality in the harsh and brutal lifestyle.

“I am fine, Papa. Did Maman use the Horse to leave? And how are my friends?” She knew they might be in a panic after her disappearance.

“I think she did. I didn’t see Kalki when I went to feed the kwamis. Your friends panicked when they found out you were kidnapped. But they are fine now, mostly worried about you. Took care of some akumas and senti monsters by themselves. I think your fencer friend, Kagami, knows more about the League than she lets on.” Of course, she does. Her mother was a member of the Guild before being blinded due to a mission. Kagami and her actually first met during a reunion party of sorts.

“Thank you, Papa. Love you.”

“Love you too.”

She hung up and dialed the personal phone number her mother uses that only Marinette and her father knows about. She waited for the call to connect, trying to think of ways to stop her mother from storming into the League’s base of operation.

“Maman, it’s me. I know you want to attack the League right this minute. But I have a better plan. Can you get Tikki’s earrings from Alix? We can use them and the ring to destroy the Lazarus Pits. Make them really angry.” She peeked out of the niche she was hiding in. She had been there for a while and needed to move to gain some grounds.

“Where are you? And are you okay?” Panic and worry filled her usually composed mother’s voice.

“I am somewhere in Nanda Parbat and I am fine. I was nearly married off to Talia’s son but I am not now. I think.” Marinette replied. Better to rip that band-aid off before she showed up with her would-have-been-husband. She jumped out of the niche and looked

“Kalki, Full Gallop. Okay, we will talk about the ‘nearly married’ part later. What was this plan to destroy the Lazarus Pits?” Sabine thought she was already used to Marinette’s brand of craziness that was her normal but apparently, not.

“I am currently on my way there. Plagg said we need Tikki to get rid of them. Since the League pissed me off and by extension you and the rest of the Guild, I thought our first move against them is to destroy the Pits and a trail of bodies. By the way, can you get some cheese for Plagg?” Marinette ran through the halls, knocking out some poor sod with a whack on the head.

Silence. She thought Sabine had hung up when-

“Voyage. Alix, where are you? We need Tikki for one of Marinette’s insane plans. And Marinette, stay safe, sweety, I’ll be there in 15 minutes.”

“Bye, Maman. See you there.”

Marinette turned another corner, the last one before the path that leads to the entrance where the Lazarus Pits were. She only managed to find it with Plagg’s voice in her head, whispering directions and Tikki’s luck. Unfortunately, the luck ran out because the entrance had a lot of guards who had spotted her.

Crap.

She hoped her mother would get here soon. Thankfully, being transformed gave her a boost and would help her to hold her ground for a while.

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

Damian and Red Hood followed the trail of unconscious bodies and sounds of fights, trying to find Lady. Damian was impressed at the level of her skills to defeat many of the League’s assassins although he could probably do better. They relied on his memory to find the Lazarus Pits which was their best bet to finding her as she claimed to be able to destroy them. If Lady possessed such powers, they must find out whether she is a threat to the world or not. And also break the infernal curse they have.

Red Hood was silent mostly. He made a few jabs about how kick ass his ‘bride’ was and how the current Robin should not let her get away. Damian tried really hard not to just maim his adopted brother and also ignore that little fluttering in his chest that happened every time they saw an unconscious assassin left behind by Lady. The sounds of fighting got louder as they got nearer to the entrance. They turned the final corner to see Lady fighting against the guards who outnumbered her. But she seemed to be doing fine against them. Mostly.

One had slipped through her defenses and nearly stabbed her in the back if it weren’t for Damian grabbing one of Red Hood’s guns and shooting a rubber bullet to the neck. He jumped into the fight, grabbing the fallen assassin’s sword and taking out the knife he got from his mother. Jason joined in too, not going to let the two teens have all the fun.

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

“Thanks for the save, Al Ghul but I don’t know why you bothered when me being dead would solve your curse problem.” Lady said as the guards laid around them and they tried to catch their breath.

“It’s Wayne. I go by Wayne these days. Being an Al Ghul is not something I learned to be proud of. And as much as I don’t want this curse, your death is not worth that price.” he replied, “Although, I have to wonder why you would choose to die rather than live.”

She chuckled, “Okay, Wayne, to answer your question. Petty teenage drama makes death much more preferable. On top of that, I have responsibilities that I was practically forced into for doing one little act of kindness.” Her tone was joking but there was a touch of bitterness in it. It made Damian want to find out what caused it. Red Hood looked at her in concern. Lady went down the stairs, ignoring their reactions to her words. They followed her, not wanting to lose sight of her again.

The Lazarus Pits emitted a green glow that lit up the cave and cast strange shadows on the walls. At the edge of the glowing toxic green waters was a woman in dark blue clothing and strangely enough wearing sunglasses. Strapped to her sides were two Dao, ancient Chinese swords. She wore a vindictive expression on her face as she stood staring at the green lake, likely to kill anyone who gets in her way. Damian didn’t recognize the woman as part of the League but taking no chances, he got into a fighting stance and Hood did the same. Lady calmly approached the woman. He reached out to grab her to stop her suicidal nature when she shocked him by speaking to the blue-clad assassin in French,

“Hey, Maman, sorry I am late. I had a little trouble with the guards upstairs. You have Tikki?”

Lady’s mother rushed to hug her, “灵儿 (líng er), I am just glad you are alright. I knew you could handle yourself.”

How the hell did Lady’s mother get to the Lazarus Pits faster than them and snuck past several vigilant guards? Before Damian could question further, a red blur appeared and went to Lady’s face, hugging her cheek. It appeared to be the same size as Plagg but was red, looked like a bug and had a black dot on its forehead.

“Oh, Marinette, you are alright. I was so worried when your mother showed up, saying you were kidnapped and needed my earrings to escape.” Unlike Plagg’s nasally voice, her voice was sweet and shrill.

So, my bride’s name is Marinette. Such a unique name for an intriguing girl.

Wait what?

Wayne, stop thinking such ridiculous notions. That is probably the curse working. Resist against it. He will not be ensnared in the traps of such magic. He hoped that the curse will be reversed before he turns and act like those fools in Grayson’s idiotic shows or Todd’s ‘secret’ romance novels.

“I am fine now. See,” reassured Lady, “We actually need you and Plagg to reverse the Lazarus Pits to what it was before someone made the wish that resulted in them in the first place. Oh, I almost forgot. Plagg, claws in.”

Green light flashed, leaving Lady in her wedding robes (which actually flatter her body. Shit. Think of something else. Drake with a smug superior smile that needs to be wiped off his face. Grayson and his plans for ‘family bonding’) and Plagg to reappear.

“Cheese.” whined the cat-like kwami(?) to which the older woman held out a brown bag that smelled and made Plagg perk up in delight. He proceeded to open the bag, taking out a slice of stinky cheese, muttering about the greatness of camembert.

Todd cleared his throat and asked in English, “Umm...Pixie as much as your reunion is touching. Who’s the new lady?”

“Oh Right, sorry. Well, Red Hood, this is my mother, the Blue Reaper of the Guild of Night. Maman, this is Red Hood and the one next to him is my husband-to-be and Talia’s Spawn, Damian Wayne.”

Lady introduced them, also in English. Damian stilled in fear, recognizing the name. The Blue Reaper nearly became his mother-in-law. She was famous for her efficiency and ruthlessness. And gained her nickname from the blue clothing she often wore as she killed her targets. His eyes also widened at how his grandfather had gone a little too far now by kidnapping the Reaper’s daughter. There were other organizations that could possibly take down the League if it weren’t for the somewhat truce between Ra’s and the other leaders. The Guild was one of them and having the Lazarus Pits to revive their soldiers made the League a little more powerful. But if what the mother-daughter duo were planning succeeded, then the League was going to have one of its most deadly wars in its history and would probably never recover from.

“Tikki, Plagg, you guys ready?” asked Lady.

“Yes, Guardian.” They both replied and emitted a blinding red and green light which Damian shielded his eyes from. When it died down, the Lazarus Pits no longer glowed a toxic green and looked… like normal hot spring water.

“Oh. I wished I could see Ra’s face when he finds out.” Lady laughed. Plagg and Todd joined in.

“Pixie, I am beginning to like you.”

“Voyage. That being said, it’s time to go home, Marinette. Your father must be worried sick about us by now. I hope you boys can find your own way back.” A portal opened up, showing a cozy living room. Damian grabbed Lady’s wrist as she moved towards it.

“Wait, let us come with you. We need to contact someone to get rid of the curse on both of us. And we can also call our father to send us tickets for a ride home wherever you live.”

“Curse? Marinette, you never mentioned a curse in your call.” Blue Reaper said, raising her eyebrow.

“I will explain later. They can come with us and I am pretty sure Ra’s knows that we have escaped by now.” Lady grabbed the two brothers and dragged them through the portal.

She then threw herself onto the couch after releasing her hold on them and the two pocket gods went to comfort her after her ordeal. The Blue Reaper stood where the other portal was and fed a floating tiny gray horse, that must be the same species as Tikki or Plagg, some sugarcubes.

“You boys must be tired but the showers are upstairs and we might have some clothes your size. Dinner will be ready in an hour. You can stay the night if you want. Welcome to Paris.”

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

Tag list: @alysrose-starchild, @buginetye, @lookatthestars1, @blackroserelina, @macncheesemonster, @mochinek0, @myazael, @tonicxworld, @thewitchwhowaited, @t1dwarrior-of-earth, @kissa-chan, @iwantasecretidentity, @theymakeupfairies, @user00000003, @woe-is-me0, @kashlyn, @mochegato,@moonlightstar64 , @greatcatblaze, @moongoddesskiana, @tazanna-blythe. @tonicxworld, @toodaloo-kangaroo, @frieddonutsweets, @local-witch-of-mn, @lady-bee-fechin, @iglowinggemma28, @indecisive-mess-named-me, @k-tea-and-coffee, @jayjayspixiepop, @all-mights-asscheeks, @idk-j-go-with-it , @loysydark, @thenillabean, @lolieg, @zalladane, @silvergold-swirl

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

(Part 5)

[depressed-teacup-inc]

I’m late but I am furious

So Hack-San might have just been one of the most upsetting episodes of Miraculous Ladybug and I want to verbally riot!

So, let’s start with the most obvious flaw this episode holds: THE ENTIRE PREMISE OF IT MAKES ZERO SENSE

Like the entire premise is Marinette is forced to go to London with her parents? And because of that she has to give the miraculous to Alya??? YKNOW??? WHEN SHES THE GUARDIAN??? AND SHE HAS ACCESS TO THE HORSE MIRACULOUS??? WHICH SHE HAS SUCCESSFULLY USED BEFORE??? WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK????

So on that completely nonsensical reasoning, and the episode literally trying to temporarily erase the horse miraculous from existence with no mentions of it, I am upset.

(Like where is the horse Kwami??? This would have just solved the damm episode)

Number two!!! ALYA WHY ARE YOU SUCH A DICKHEAD?!?!?

Listen, I don’t know what the fuck is up with this show, and thinking that inherently you must treat your partner like shit over misunderstandings (remember this is right before Rocketear, and suddenly Nino’s behavior is so much more understandable) but that’s already a given in this show! That I wasn’t surprised about!

What I am absolutely furious at is HOW MEAN AND RUDE SHE IS OUT OF NOWHERE TO CHAT??? LIKE EVERY INTERACTION OF THEIRS THIS EPISODE WAS HIM BEING RIGHTFULLY ANGRY AND LOGICAL, WHILE SHES JUST RETORTING WITH LOW INSULTS SUCH AS “oh yeah LB actually likes me and trusts me so ha!” AND ITS LIKE??? DO ALL MIRACULOUS SWITCH EPISODES MADE FOR ABSOLUTELY HUMILIATING CHAT NOIR?!

And in connection to that, THIS EPISODE HAS SCREWED CHAT NOIR OVER SO MUCH?!?!? Like not only did Marinette made an idiotic and dangerous decision for no reason (which he would have forgave btw) without him, almost every interaction in this episode between him and Scarabella (so no ladybug names based on Alya’s ethnicity and culture?) is on how much Ladybug likes her more and he is being ridiculous for rightful anger!!! He thought that LB was defeated and replaced with a super villain!!!!

And after all that? Ladybug and Scarabella don’t tell him shit. That’s right ladies and gentlemen, the show may have wanted to pretend a vital talk has happened, but all that happened was “Oh yeahhhh no I’m sorryyyy UWU I would be sad if you had completely betrayed my trust and used me as a toy too! But its ok you’re my pretty little Kitty!” Which he just has to forgive?!? WHY DOES HE HAVE TO FORGIVE?!?!? HE SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO GO APESHIT!!!!

It’s so… condescending. And cruel and mean, and I don’t know how this show is so hellbent on Marinette staying the hero (because that’s right! Scarabella’s great fucking plan was “free Marinette she’s the best ladybug I am inferior to her and she will fix everything!) and how everyone just buys it????

So yeah. This is probably one of the worst (if not the worst) episode so far in season 4. And all I saw people talk about in this episode was “OMG LADYNOIR MOMENT”

[san-fics]

4 times Chat Noir let Adrien out and one time Ladybug let out Marinette

1

Ladybug was looking at the new Adrien Agreste advertisement poster dreamily.

Oh, this boy. What was he doing to her heart without even knowing about it.

“Don't tell me the Parisian heroine is fascinated by this boring pretty face!” Chat Noir’s voice came from behind her, and Ladybug jumped in surprise.

“Not at all!” She denied, hiding her blushed face from her partner.

“Oh, come on, LB, I saw you staring at his poster for like 15 minutes!” Chat insisted.

Ladybug was trying to think fast. Chat Noir knowing her love interests wasn’t good at all. And if she just denied by words without convincing arguments, well, Chat will never stop annoy and tease her about it!

To make her partner believe that her sympathy to Adrien wasn’t that bad, she needed to find a good comparison, next to which she would not seem at all carried away. And what could be better than comparing yourself to a fanatical stalker?! Luckily she knew exactly the one...

“It’s not like my room is fool of his posters that I kiss before going to sleep, like that classmate of his does!” Ladybug exclaimed. “Remember they showed her room once when Jugget Stone was there?”

Chat Noir looked at her with a kind, slightly naive, and not at all characteristic for him, smile.

“You are mistaking, my Lady.” His tone was a little protective though. “Marinette doesn’t have a crush on him.”

“Riiiiight.” Ladybug smirked. “And I am a Pokemon!”

Her partner rolled his eyes with the air of a man listening to nonsense.

“She is just into fashion.” He explained with soft patient tone.

Ladybug froze and stared at him for a few moments. Then she shook her head and continued with a mocking tone:

“I don’t buy that, Chat.” She argued. Her comparison plan wasn’t working so well, so she had to be more convincing. “What about the hearts all over those posters?”

“Those are just inverted patterns for clothes.” Chat explained, his face soft and dreamy.

2

“You are so amazing, LB!” Chat cheered after another akuma fight with some creative lucky charm ideas was over.

“I’m just a normal girl, Chat.” Ladybug rolled her eyes at him. “And those are just superpowers that Tikki gives to me. Nothing else.”

“That isn’t true and you know it!” Chat insisted. “Superpowers are superpowers, but without you and your strength, imagination and kindness — they would be nothing!”

“No-one would be able to make it without a miraculous, Chat.” Ladybug said. “Tell me, do you know people without superpowers that could pull that out?”

“In fact, I do.” Smug smile stretched across Chat’s face.

“Oh?”

“There is this girl, a good friend of mine.” He started. “She is strong and selfless, she stands for the others, and takes care of the people around.” Chat Noir was smiling softly. “She can even make a lucky charm!” He laughed to himself. “And she doesn’t need any superpowers for that.”

“Wow, I’m impressed.” Ladybug said. “You obviously have a high opinion of your friend.”

“Yeah.” Chat had a dreamy face again. “She is amazing.” He sighed. “She is just like our everyday Ladybug.”

3

“You know people ship us, right?” Chat Noir pushed her shoulder against his shoulder playfully.

“Don’t even remind me!” Ladybug sighed. “My whole class full of Ladynoir shippers!”

“Is that such a bad idea?” Her partner smiled at her with a toothy smile. “C’mon, m’lady, all Paris knows how good we look together, you’re the only one who doesn’t see it!” Chat wiggled his eyebrows at her.

This sort of discussions were bad and could give him a wrong ideas, Ladybug thought. Especially when he had the whole city supporting them...

Ladybug was wondering how she could distract his attention and maybe even panish him a little for all those shippers his behavior was creating around them, making her uncomfortable.

“Oh, really?” She asked slyly. “You know what other ships there might be?” She narrowed her eyes as if thinking about it. “Let’s ship you with Queen Bee.” Ladybug suggested. “QueenNoir? ChatBee?”

Chat rolled his eyes.

“C’mon, my lady, Chloe and me sounds so ridiculous, I’m almost not offended!” He laughed.

“Oh, yeah? How about Rena? ChatRouge? RenaNoir?” Ladybug smirked.

“As much as I respect Rena, she is in relationships, so you can’t really ship us.” Chat argued.

“Ok, you might be right there.” She sighed. “So it applies to Carapace as well.”

“And all the other temporary heroes were on the scene so little, it wouldn’t make any sense, Bugaboo, so, give up right there.” A winner's smile shone on his face. “Ladynoir is the best ship and you can’t do anything about it!”

“That is what you think.” Ladybug smirked, thinking of pulling out her old distract-Chat-from-herself-with-herself trick. “But there are some people besides our teammates that you spend rather a lot of time. Enough to be shipped with.” Ladybug was smiling slyly.

“Oh, really? If we are still talking about Chloe, who happens be appearing a lot during our fights, spare your time, ‘cause...”

“No, no, it would be to easy for you to brush away. Just ‘cause it’s Chloe. I’d rather go for someone actually human for a change, so you’d know how annoying it is for me to hear about Ladynoir.”

“Try me.” Chat said in a challenging tone, smiling widely.

“What about this girl that you tend to save all the time, even when she doesn’t need any saving? Marinette? How was it... Let me think... Chatinette? Marichat? Right! Even Ladyblogers ships you with her!”

Ladybug was pleased with herself: Chat really had some soft spot for her civilian self, so he won’t be able to deny it.

“Come on, LB!” Chat started, blushing furiously. “Of course, Marinette is an amazing friend. She is great and kind, and strong, and beautiful...” For a while he silently smiled at his thoughts, then came to his senses and shook his head. “But... umm... as I was saying... Marinette is just a good friend.”

Ladybug was just staring at him again with another feeling of déjà vu, which she often had lately...

4 + 1

“Marichat is really rising!” Ladybug was upset. The last thing she needed was to have journalists on her tail as a civilian. “You have to be more careful with attracting attention to her!”

“Are you jealous, m’lady?” Chat smiled at her, blinking fast.

“Not at all!” Ladybug exclaimed. “It’s just you seem to always stuck with her, and it can put her and her family in danger!”

“You’re right.” Chat became serious and sighed. “I’ll be more careful from now on. Even I don’t mind to stuck somewher with a friend like her.” Chat’s dreamy face appeared again, like the one he seemed to always have on him while talking about Marinette.

Ladybug would brush it off as usually, but those were the exact words Adrien told her in New York. Just as well as calling her ‘just a good friend’. Just as well as calling her everyday Ladybug. Well, that time Chat didn’t actually name Marinette, but now, together with all the other déjà vu of Adrien she had while talking with Chat...

He even used her own argument for explaining her Adrien-posters, wich could still be a coincidence. But ‘inverted patterns for clothes’? Really?

Ladybug blushed on the idea that all this time the boy she liked so much was fighting along her side, saving her, flirting with her...

“Stuck... go... New-York... to...” She stammered.

Chat Noir turned to her and narrowed his eyes.

Ladybug gulped in air, trying to hide her excitement and worrying even more intensely. Nothing new for Marinette while communicating with Adrien, but not for Ladybug when she communicated with Chat!

“I should... need... go... friend... uhhh...” She tried to explain herself.

For a long time Chat Noir looked at her intently, then his eyes widened.

“Marinette?!”

P.S.

"It was when she babbled nonsense in my face - I knew that My lady was My Princess." Adrien said, kissed Emma on the forehead and turned off the light next to her bed.

[more MLB fanfic]

[December 2021 posting schedule]

Tag list (ask me to join)

@minibug-n-kittynoir

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@thepapillonnoir

@loves-books

@turiankitty

@toodaloo-kangaroo

@readingismyoxygen

@aespades

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@apasponsor

[casadefreewill]

Daily fics

(Fics I read throughout the day yesterday and enjoyed)

Hey, what do you guys think if I turned these into actual rec lists? Like if I sorted them by actual topic? (Show, ship, au, etc.) yay or nay in the notes.

Blood and Gold by YourFavoriteCONTRACTOR

While on a solo, late night patrol, Ladybug discovers something about her "Sunshine Child" classmate that is more sinister than she could have expected. She flees the scene and finds comfort and a new understanding through her partner Chat Noir.

Update! Update! Update!

This newest chapter goes a bit more into the Chloé Adrien dynamic and we get some actual friendship chloadrien (though there’s still unrequited love on Chloé’s end).

★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆

One Win, So Many Losses by P_Artsypants ( @p-artsypants )

Marinette was forced to break up with Adrien. It had been a low blow from Gabriel, to be sure.

But she was Ladybug. She'd find a solution...right?

An alternate ending to Chat Blanc, where Adrien doesn't Cataclysm the akuma.

First half of this had me ugly crying. Gabriel is such a dick. (But of course communication is the key to happiness)

★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆

Blanc Misfortunes and Happily Ever Afters by Yolowritter

When Bunnyx discovers another disturbance in the Burrow, she stumbles upon a variant of Lady Misfortune, the terrifying version of an Akumatized Ladybug. In an attempt to buy herself more time to deal with the problem, Bunnyx tosses her into a variant of Chat Blanc's timeline that should be empty! But when Lady Misfortune meets Chat Blanc, will they destroy each other to claim the Miraculous and get back all they lost, or will romance bloom between whatever parts of them still belonging to Marinette and Adrien?

A.K.A: In which we get a new ship in the Lovesquare, a Fix-It and both Misfortune and Blanc get a much needed hug!

[miraculousfanworks]

Fanfiction Prompt

Master Fu can’t decide who gets which Kwami so he tells Tikki and Plagg to stay with their first holder for 3 days and then meet up at the Eiffel Tower to swap and stay with the other for 3 days and return to him on the 7th. All of Paris is baffled when only 3 days after the debut of Ladybug and Chat Noir, they have new hero’s they know nothing about. Where did Ladybug and Chat Noir go? Who are these imposters? The next week had no Ladybug and Chat Noir, nor Mister Bug and Lady Noire, so what happened? Back at Master Fu’s place, Plagg wants to be Marinette’s kwami for the cheese pastries, but Adrien’s because he can buy all the cheese he wants. Tikki wants to be Marinette’s because she seems to fit the miraculous and seems sweet, but Adrien’s because he needs serious help and hugs.

via @poptartcat

[fridayfirefly]

A Guardian in Gotham

Read A Guardian in Gotham on AO3

Masterlist

Written for Maribat March Day 19 - Guardian

Note: In this AU Master Fu gave out the Ladybug Miraculous to Marinette and the Black Cat Miraculous to Adrien before consulting the Kwami. Marinette turned out to be a true holder, but for the Black Cat Miraculous, not the Ladybug Miraculous. However, she and Adrien made it work and were able to defeat Hawkmoth anyway. After Hawkmoth's defeat she becomes Lady Noire full-time.

----------

Being the Guardian of the Miraculous was hard work. There were no family vacations, no sleeping in or going to bed early, no breaks. Marinette could not relax until Hawkmoth was defeated. Which explained why it was such a jarring change once the Miraculous Team defeated Hawkmoth.

Gabriel Agreste was behind bars. The citizens of Paris were free from the threat of akumatization. Tikki, Plagg, and the rest of the Kwamis went dormant in order to restore the damage done to Duusu's Miraculous. Marinette didn't exactly know what to do with herself. Suddenly it hit her that she was no longer the middle schooler who accepted the burden of Guardianship. She was in her final year of high school, nearly an adult. All around her, her friends were making future plans. Adrien was taking a gap year to help Emilie recover from her coma. Alya was accepted to a prestigious journalism program. Nino was DJing at one of the best clubs in Paris. Luka was releasing his EP. Kagami was training for the Olympics. Chloé took up an internship with her mother.

Marinette couldn't move on, the way all of her friends were able to. Marinette couldn't be a normal girl anymore. She couldn't go to university, start a family, live a normal life. She needed the rush of adrenaline that came from two little words - Spots on! or more recently, Claws out!

It was around this time that the Temple of Guardian got in touch with Marinette, offering her an opportunity to continue her work as a Guardian of the Miraculous. They send Marinette a box of old journals, dating back to the 18th century. The journals detailed the discovery of twin "wells of evil" located in the American cities of Gotham and Metropolis, then named Mortham City. The Masters of the Miraculous who made this discovery studied the evil and expressed the desire to find a way to remove it, but didn't have the chance to complete the task before the Temple of Guardians fell. When the Temple reappeared they believed that the Masters had managed to destroy the evil in Mortham, due to the reports of the city's recovery and renaming to Metropolis soon after, but were unable to destroy the evil in Gotham. The city festered, growing more and more troubled while Metropolis flourished. Marinette's task was to do her best to study and remove the evil in Gotham.

Marinette applied to Gotham University, feeling relieved that she might finally find her purpose.

----------

Marinette's dorm room at Gotham University was rather lackluster; it was the typical tiny, cramped American university dorm, complete with a stained carpet and a bathroom shared between six girls. Her roommate was a computer science major named Barbara Gordon. Barbara was older than Marinette, a senior while Marinette was only a freshman. It was a fluke accident that the freshman dorms had filled up before she was admitted. Secretly Marinette wished that she had been able to room with another freshman. Barbara was rarely in the dorm room, too busy with her coursework and her real friends to make small talk with her nervous roommate.

Marinette barely spent any time in her dorm room, either. She spent most of her time in class or at the library studying. Marinette had the ambitious plan of double majoring in both fashion and business, in order to start her own fashion company someday. Her classes overwhelmed her, and Marinette began to regret overloading her first-semester schedule. It gave her barely any time to work on her Guardian work, let alone join an extracurricular.

Marinette wanted to decorate the dorm and make it more of a home, but because of a plane delay, she ended up arriving at the university the day before classes started, giving her no time at all to go to the store and buy anything. Another unfortunate casualty of Marinette's late arrival was that she still hadn't figured out how Gotham's bus schedule worked, so she walked everywhere, even in the pouring rain.

Overall, Marinette's first week of classes was miserable. That was why Marinette was crying in her dorm room, alone, at six in the evening on a Friday night. It all started when Marinette saw a picture of her old class on social media. Alya and Nino were making faces at the camera; Marinette and Adrien were both grinning, Marinette's blue scarf wrapped around his neck; Ivan and Mylène were holding hands, staring into each other's eyes; Rose was posing, kissing Juleka's cheek; Alix was perched on Kim's shoulders; Nathaniel had his arm wrapped around Marc's shoulders; Max was holding up Markov so he could wave to the camera, Sabrina and Chloé were smiling, holding hands.

The photo had been taken years ago, on their first day of lycée. Marinette remembered it well. They had all been nervous about starting at a new school. There was no guarantee that they would all be in the same class. Max had calculated the odds for even half of their class staying together and it wasn't good. But that morning, when Marinette walked into her homeroom and saw all of her friends sitting there, she knew that it would be okay. Chloé revealed that she had gotten her father to provide a generous donation to the school to keep them all in the same class for the rest of their education. Marinette had been so happy to get to stay with her friends. Now she was on a different continent from them.

The tears started to fall, slowly at first, then more and more until Marinette was sobbing, face pressed into a pillow. How could she have made such a stupid decision? All of her friends were in France and she left them, all because she couldn't move on.

Two knocks on the door halted Marinette's sobs. "Babs? Are you in here?"

Marinette got up and opened the door, revealing a young man. He looked to be her age, tall, with black hair and blue eyes. "Barbara isn't here right now," she told the man.

The man blinked, looking at Marinette like she wasn't what he expected at all. "I guess I should have called her before I showed up. I'm Tim, by the way. I was just here to drop this off." Tim held up a container filled with chocolate chip cookies.

"I'm Marinette. If you want, you can drop the cookies off on her desk. I'll tell Barbara that they're from you, once she comes back to the dorm." Marinette wiped her eyes with her shirt sleeve, trying to get rid of the evidence of her crying.

"Are you okay?" asked Tim.

"Oh, I'm fine. Just a little homesick. Nothing to worry about."

"You should come with me to get dinner," offered Tim. "I was just about to stop in at the dining hall."

Marinette shook her head. "I wouldn't want to impose."

"It wouldn't be an imposition at all. I hate eating alone."

Marinette gave him a wary look. "I don't know you. Why would you invite me to eat with you?"

Tim shrugged. "You look like you could use some company, to take your mind off of your homesickness. Unless you want to spend the rest of your night crying in your dorm."

Marinette bit her lip as she thought it over. It would be nice to get out of the dorm and get something to eat. On the other hand, Tim was a complete stranger whose intentions Marinette still didn't trust. Then Marinette remembered the photo of her friends and made up her mind. If she couldn't have her old friends here in Gotham she would have to make new ones. "Alright. Just give me a few minutes to get ready."

Marinette threw on a pair of jeans, a Gotham University hoodie, and her sturdiest pair of sneakers.

"So what's on the menu tonight?" asked Marinette as they walked out of the dorm building to Tim's car.

"Uncertain. I can't remember the last time the dining hall actually updating its online menu. I was planning on crossing my fingers and hoping that they would be serving something edible tonight."

Marinette wrinkled her nose. "Is the food usually edible?"

"It's hit or miss. If you want, we could go to a diner instead?"

Marinette nodded. "I don't want to spend my weekend with food poisoning."

"Good choice." Tim turned the car around and started driving into the center of Gotham.

"Are you a senior like Barbara?" asked Marinette.

Tim shook his head. "I'm a sophomore. How about you?"

"Freshman. This is actually my first Friday in Gotham."

"Where are you from?" asked Tim.

"Paris, 21st arrondissement."

"That must be a pretty big change. What made you choose Gotham?"

Marinette shrugged, not wanting to give away her real reason. "I figured all the supervillains and Rogues might remind me of home."

Tim looked confused for a second before a realization passed over him. "I forgot about Hawkmoth. It was a big deal here in Gotham when he first emerged because the Mayor of Paris refused to allow the Justice League to intervene. All because he was worried about 'damaging the historic buildings of Paris'."

Marinette let out a bitter laugh. "That wasn't the real reason, you know. I was friends with Andre Bourgeois's daughter, Chloé. She says that he didn't want the Justice League to get involved in the fight against Hawkmoth because he couldn't merchandise any of the Justice League members. Ladybug, Chat Noir, and the rest of the Miraculous Team, on the other hand, never copyrighted their images. Paris used the Miraculous Team to bring in billions in tourism and Bourgeois never paid them a cent."

Tim looked surprised. "You sound like you know a lot about the Miraculous Team."

"I got to know them all pretty well. My classmates were known throughout Paris as the 'Children of Hawkmoth' - as if it was our fault that Hawkmoth targeted my school at a rate astronomically higher than the rest of the city. Of course, when it turned out that Gabriel Agreste's son was one of my classmates the nickname got a bit more personal."

Tim let out a break. "I suppose moving to Gotham makes sense when you've spent that much time in proximity to superheroes and supervillains."

"Gotham is an improvement to Paris under Hawkmoth. At least none one your Rogues can mind control." Marinette shuddered at the memory of her friends and loved ones turning against her due to Hawkmoth's influence.

Tim pulled into the diner parking lot. The pair got a booth in the back and put in their orders. Tim and Marinette spent the night trading stories of the most interesting Parisian akumas and Gotham Rogues.

Tim was enraptured. He told Marinette that for years it had been difficult for outsiders to get any reliable information about the Miraculous Team, outside of what Andre Bourgeois used for his tourism campaign. So Marinette did her best to share all the little details that every Parisian knew like the back of their hand: That Valentines Day was the worst holiday because all of the akumas were love-based. That they were trained in school to either lock their emotions down or let them all out, if they saw an akuma, to try and diminish the akuma's power. That Ladybug and Chat Noir, once they realized that their fanbase was primarily children, made it a point to never swear during their battles.

By the end of the night, Tim and Marinette made plans to meet up the following day. Tim promised to take Marinette out into the city for the shopping trip that her delayed flight caused her to miss. Marinette went to bed that night hopeful for her future in Gotham, a feeling she never thought she would have again.

----------

Over the next few weeks, things got better at Gotham University. Marinette started spending more time out of her dorm room with Tim, and eventually, with her roommate Babs and Tim's brother (and Bab's boyfriend) Dick. Tim became Marinette's lifesaver after he taught Marinette how Gotham's bus system worked. Marinette finally got around to decorating her side of the room. Her new style and color scheme (navy blue and sunflower yellow, Gotham University school colors) suited her much better than the pinks and whites of her high school days. Her productivity increased as she settled into the school, and Marinette found that she actually enjoyed her classes. It wasn't perfect, but Gotham University began to feel a bit more like home.

Most importantly, Marinette had begun to make progress on her work as a guardian. It had taken a whole weekend, but she eventually located the epicenter of Gotham's evil, a rundown tenement building in the heart of Crime Alley. The basement of the building housed storage units, one of which Marinette promptly rented. She set up her workshop there, bringing out the Miraculous Box so that she could consult the Kwami. Tikki and Plagg both woke up from their hibernation and Marinette got to work.

"I can sense the evil," spoke Tikki. "It's overpowering."

"It's like going from the Sahara Desert straight to the middle of the ocean," added Plagg.

"It does feel similar to drowning," Tikki agreed.

"Do either of you have any idea how to get rid of it?" asked Marinette.

Tikki shrugged. "I wish I could tell you how to defeat it, but it's unlike any enemy the Kwami of your Miracle Box have ever gone up against before. But look on the bright side, we know that it can be eliminating. I can only assume that the Kwami were involved when the evil was eliminated in Metropolis."

"The solution is easy. We cataclysm the evil," said Plagg.

"We don't know what would happen if we use cataclysm against something that isn't fully corporeal."

"Then we use Sass's second chance until we get it right."

Tikki brightened up. "Oh, that is a good idea - using second chance, not using cataclysm irresponsibly."

"See! I do have good ideas sometimes. We could also use Pollen's venom to freeze the evil in place and stop it from fighting back."

Marinette could listen to her two favorite Kwami argue forever. She had missed them terribly. But she had a job to do, so she interrupted their banter. "Do you think I should use Mullo to wield multiple Miraculous?"

Tikki shook her head. "You'll need at least one other person with you. If you get hurt, someone else will have to use second chance."

Marinette pondered that fact. "Luka's going on tour next month. He's stopping in Gotham for a weekend. Chloé is only an hour drive from Gotham, up in New York City, so she could be here any time. If we plan everything right, we could have the evil destroyed before the semester is over."

Once again, Tikki shot down Marinette's plan. "This is too strong for Luka's second chance or Chloé's venom. If you want to do this right you'll need to use true holders."

Marinette winced. Finding the true holder of a Miraculous was a near-impossible task. Of her entire Miraculous Team, only Marinette and Adrien were true holders. While the Kwami could sense a person's aptitude, they needed to be within fifty feet to get an accurate read. There was no way Marinette would be able to find the true holder of both Sass and Pollen. "Okay, new plan. What if I get Mullo to multiply myself and then have each copy of me take a different Miraculous?"

Marinette brainstormed with the two Kwami for hours, desperate to find a solution to the problem that had plagued Gotham for centuries. However, they still couldn't come up with a plan in which Marinette would be able to rid Gotham of the evil without enlisting the help of at least one other true holder. In the end, Marinette decided to take Tikki, Plagg, Sass, and Pollen back to the dorm with her, hoping that they might stumble upon another true holder.

"I wish we had a better plan," sighed Marinette.

"Keep your head up, Marinette. The only thing we can do now is stay positive and hope for the best," advised Tikki.

It wasn't a good plan, passively waiting for someone to solve her problem for her, but it was the only plan they had. Marinette had no other choice. If she tried to take on the evil alone, it would overpower her. It was disheartening. Marinette rode the bus back to her dorm. The streets of Gotham felt colder on the return trip.

Getting dinner with Tim was the only thing that could cheer Marinette up, so she pulled out her phone and sent him an invitation to meet up.

Marinette: Do you want to go get dinner? I heard the dining hall has vegetarian lasagne

Tim: Sure! Be there in twenty

Marinette put her phone away as she got off the bus and started walking towards the dining hall, dodging the sidewalk puddles that never seemed to dry. Even when it wasn't raining, Gotham was a dreary city.

Tim and Marinette chatted about their classes as they ate their food. By the end of dinner, Marinette felt a little better about her disappointing day. Tim could always lift her out of a bad mood. Marinette considered it his superpower.

"I'll see you tomorrow," said Marinette as she got out of Tim's car in front of her dorm hall. She expected to get to her room without incident, but as soon as she got into the relative privacy of the stairwell, all four of her Kwami were circling around her head, speaking in rapid succession, too quick for Marinette to keep up.

"I can't believe it!"

"You've got some luck, Pigtails!"

"This is great news!"

"I can't wait to meet him!"

Marinette blinked as she tried to make sense of the Kwamis' words. "What's going on?"

Pollen's eyes were bright. "Tim is my true holder!" the Kwami squeaked excitedly.

Marinette gasped. "Really?"

"He'll make a perfect Bee. He seems so smart and funny and considerate. I bet he'll feed me loads of honey and get fresh flowers for all of his rooms and be my best friend." Pollen sighed dreamily, pure joy in her voice.

"Pollen, have you ever had a true holder before?" asked Marinette.

"Of course. It's been a long time, though - at least a thousand years since my last true holder died. I missed it a lot. But now I have Tim!"

Marinette smiled, overjoyed that she finally had the means to complete her mission, that Pollen finally got to meet one of her true holders again, that Gotham might be freed from the evil that had loomed over it for centuries. Mostly, she was overjoyed that she met Tim all those weeks ago, that he took the time to get to know her, that he was there for her when no one else was.

----------

"So the Kwami are little gods?" Tim stared at Pollen with an almost scary intensity, as if he thought looking away might make the Kwami disappear.

Pollen flew up closer to Tim to explain. "The Kwami are linked to certain aspects of humanity: creation, destruction, intuition, protection, et cetera. We have a certain amount of control over these qualities. I am the Kwami of Subjection, of control and mastery. I can give you the power to incapacitate your enemies."

"Incapacitate them how?"

"Using the power of venom, you will be able to freeze your enemies in place."

Tim wrinkled his nose. "That sounds a little morality dubious. How do you know I wouldn't use it for evil. This is Gotham."

Pollen rolled her eyes. "You're my true holder, Tim Drake. I trust you with my entire being."

"What does that mean, for me to be your true holder?"

Pollen's cheerful expression turned sad. "Of all the Kwami, my powers are the most often exploited. The power of subjection, of complete and total control over your enemies, is corrupting. However, you, Tim, are my true holder. Your self-control is strong, I can sense it. You will not be corrupted by the power I give you. You will wield it fairly."

Tim glanced over at Marinette, and she gave him her most encouraging smile. "I need you, Tim. I've needed you for a while. First, as a friend, when I was at my lowest, and now as my partner. There's an evil that resides in this city, that I have been tasked with destroying. I can't get rid of it alone. I need you to help me."

Tim's eyes widened. "You mean there's a supernatural reason for Gotham's condition?"

Marinette nodded. "There's a well of evil underneath the city. Using the Miraculous, I can remove it. But it's too powerful for me to do it alone. I know this is a lot to ask, but-"

Tim interrupted Marinette before she could finish her sentence. "You know, Gotham is well known for its distaste for magic-users and meta-humans." Marinette opened her mouth to protest but was interrupted once more by Tim. "However, I trust that you want to do what's best for this city. I'll help you."

Marinette's face brightened. "Thank you! I have a plan but I still need to fine-tune the details. I'll get back to you as soon as possible. For now, you should take the Bee Comb with you. You'll need to form an emotional bond with Pollen before you can achieve peak performance."

"You seem to know a lot about the Miraculous and the Kwami."

"It's my job to be knowledgable. I'm a Guardian of the Miraculous."

----------

"So how does a girl like you become a Guardian of the Miraculous?" asked Tim as they ate their lunch in the storage unit after a long morning of pouring over plans.

"I was chosen by the previous master. It's a long-standing tradition that the Guardian can only be a true holder, because true holders notoriously incorruptible except in the most extreme situations. I was the only true holder that Master Fu knew of, other than himself, so despite my age and despite the fact that I wielded the Ladybug Miraculous rather than the Black Cat Miraculous, the Miraculous I was the true holder for, he passed the responsibility onto me."

"How old were you when you became the Guardian full-time?"

Marinette tensed her shoulders. "I was fourteen. Master Fu wanted to wait longer, but there was a situation. I lost my only mentor, with only a fraction of my training completed."

"That sounds rough," Tim's tone was sympathetic. He placed his hand on her shoulder to comfort her.

"It was difficult," Marinette admitted. "For the longest time, I was mad at Master Fu for waiting so long to start training me. It wasn't until I got older that I realized why he was so reluctant to start my training. He felt guilty for stealing my childhood away from me. The situation in Paris was bad and tough choices had to be made. I don't blame him, but there are a lot of things I wish had been done differently."

"I'm sorry that you had to go through that. I don't know what I would have done if I had lost my mentor-" Tim's thoughtful tone turned frantic. "Not that my experience with mentorship would compare to yours, because I wouldn't know anything about being a teenage superhero."

Tim's words were suspicious, but Marinette didn't have time to figure out what he was hiding. They had a job to do. "Well, it's time to get back to work. You need to practice using venom on non-corporeal objects. I want to see if you're able to freeze the wind."

"Sounds good, Bugs."

"Bugs?"

Tim nodded. "I figured you could use a nickname. Do you not like it?"

"No, it's fine." Marinette paused. "Actually, it's better than fine. I really appreciate it. Thank you, Tim."

"No problem, Buggsy," Tim teased.

"Okay, now you're pushing your luck," Marinette teased right back.

----------

Lady Noire and her partner Yellowjacket stood in the basement of a rundown tenement building in the heart of Crime Alley.

Lady Noire spoke the plan aloud, the rhythm of her words revealing that she had spoken them many times before in preparation for the event. "I'll start by drawing out the evil. As soon as it senses the power of destruction that I hold it will try and consume me. I need you to be ready to use your venom the moment it emerges. Once it is frozen, I will use cataclysm. Are you ready?"

Yellowjacket responded. "I'm ready."

Lady Noire closed her eyes and let out her breath in a drawn-out hiss. The shadows around her darkened and she let out a pained gasp as she fell to her knees.

Yellowjacket sprung into action. "Venom!" he shouted, thrusting his palms out to let his power fill the room. The whole room lit up with yellow light, bright enough to rid the room of all but the supernatural shadows.

The shadows, which had been growing exponentially, suddenly stopped dead in their tracks. Lady Noire got back up onto her feet, a vicious snarl on her face. "You have been terrorizing this city for centuries. No longer will I will allow this evil to haunt Gotham. Cataclysm!"

The shadows crumbled, leaving behind only natural darkness. The transformation disappeared from Lady Noire, leaving behind a girl, who gasped for breath. "Tim, we did it!"

"Pollen, buzz off," commanded Yellowjacket. He was so impatient to hug the girl that he had his arms wrapped around her before his transformation was finished. "It's over, Marinette."

The girl shook her head gently. "It's not completely over. The effects will surely linger - Metropolis still sees its fair share of villains - but it will be nothing like what it was before. I imagine the vigilantes that roam Gotham will have a much easier job, though."

The boy tensed up. "Speaking of the vigilantes that roam Gotham, I suppose there's something that I should probably tell you. I'm Red Robin."

The girl blinked once, a dumbstruck expression on her face then burst out into peals of laughter. "Just my silly luck that I ask a vigilante to be my superhero partner."

The boy grinned. "I am rather fond of your silly luck. It's what brought us together."

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