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purrincess-chat · 4 years

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Marinette Dupain-Cheng’s Spite Playlist: Remix CH4

Yall ready for Uncle Jagged? I’d say out of the first 7 chapters, 4 is probably the one I tweaked the most from the original. It’s still roughly the same, but you’ll notice several key differences. Our girl is gonna get all the love she deserves!

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Chapter 4: The Change

“Do you think we should ask her what’s wrong?” Eliott whispered at lunch the next day as Marinette pushed food around her plate.

“I dunno. It could make things worse,” Macy said.

“But she looks so sad.” Martin winced.

She should have known they’d notice. It’s not like she was trying to hide it. Her heart was too heavy to lift up anymore, and for once, she couldn’t find her smile. There was no light to shed on the situation. No motivation to even go looking for any. She was a ghost of the confident girl they’d met yesterday, so she couldn’t blame them for having whiplash. Still, it was sweet of them to worry.

She set down her fork and forced a pained smile. “I appreciate your concern, but I’m fine,” she said.

“Did Gabrielle get to you?” Martin shrank, glancing around as if her posse were poised to strike.

“No.” She shook her head, chewing her lip contemplatively before continuing, “It’s my old school. Yesterday my best friend was akumatized because I left, and-”

“Oh, that’s so scary!” Macy gasped. “We’ve had a few akumas here before.”

“Yeah, I think I recognize some of you,” Marinette said, then quickly added, “-from the news.”

“Is everything okay?” Eliott asked.

“Not exactly…” Marinette shifted her gaze back to her plate. “She and I agreed to go our separate ways after everything.”

“Marinette, I’m so sorry,” Macy said.

“It’s probably for the best.” Marinette shrugged. “There’s this girl at my old school that’s a huge liar, and she has everyone wrapped around her finger, including my best friend… my ex-best friend. I tried several times, but I could never prove that she was lying. Then she started turning my friends against me, and—yeah.”

“Wow, no wonder you left,” Eliott said.

Macy stretched across the table to take her hand. “Hey, you have us now, and if there’s anything we’re good at, it’s forgetting about our problems for a little while, so why don’t we do something fun tonight?” She suggested. “I hear Jagged is playing a concert in town; we could go if you want.”

“But I thought it was sold out.” Marinette’s eyebrows knitted together.

“Well, aren’t you friends with Jagged?” Eliott asked. “Ask him for tickets.”

“I- we’re not really that close. I mean, I designed for him a couple of times, but I don’t really think that he would do that. Besides, I wouldn’t want to trouble him…” Marinette rubbed the back of her neck.

“It doesn’t hurt to ask,” Macy said.

Marinette eyed her phone with pursed lips before pulling up her Instagram. Of course she followed Jagged, but she barely interacted with him. He probably wasn’t even the one running the account—most celebrities had an assistant for that. Her request would probably get buried among the thousands of other comments, but it was worth a shot. She typed a quick message and hit send, praying he wouldn’t be too upset with her for asking.

“I’m surprised that a girl as connected as you doesn’t take advantage every now and then,” Eliott said when she set her phone down. “I mean, you know a lot of famous and powerful people.”

“I don’t like to bother anyone.” She curled her shoulders. “Besides I don’t know him that well.”

“Jagged called you his favorite little lady when you were on that TV show with him.” Macy reminded her. “I think it’s safe to say that he likes you enough to give you a few free tickets.”

When Marinette’s phone vibrated on the table, they all crowded around to read Jagged’s reply.

“Yo, Marinette! It would be totally awesome if you could come to my show tonight! The floor’s sold out, but I’ll have Penny send some backstage passes for you and your friends!”

“Well, well, well,” Eliott said. “Looks like we’re going to see Jagged Stone.”

♪♫♪ Better Without You ♪♫♫

Alya toyed with her stylus, gaze fixed on the desk in front of her as she attempted to piece together the last 24 hours. After everything they’d been through together, how could Marinette end things like that? Her stomach churned, recalling the drained look in Marinette’s eyes the night before.

Maybe she’d overreacted. Marinette was her best friend after all, and best friends didn’t abandon each other for no reason. It wasn’t like Alya wanted to stop being friends. She was just so hurt and confused that she’d said it on impulse. She never expected Marinette to agree, but maybe she felt the same way Alya did. Maybe she thought Alya didn’t want to be her friend anymore, so she let her go despite how painful it was. It was a nice thought anyway.

“Good morning, Alya!” Lila greeted with her usual cheeriness, though her face fell upon seeing Alya’s forlorn expression. “Is everything alright?”

“It’s nothing.” Alya blinked out of her trance, shifting in her seat.

“It doesn’t seem like nothing.” Lila pried. When Alya remained quiet, Lila placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “You can trust me. We’re friends, right?”

“Yeah…” Alya weighed it for a moment before turning to face her. “It’s about Marinette.”

“Oh, I see! You’re upset because she left.” Lila nodded in understanding.

“I tried to talk to her yesterday, but things didn’t exactly go well…” Alya lowered her gaze to her lap with a frown.

“Did she tell you why she left?”

“Not exactly…” Alya bit her lip. “I mean, I have a hunch, but she denied it.”

“It wasn’t because of me, was it?” Lila gasped, and Alya averted her gaze. “It was, wasn’t it? Oh, I never meant to upset her. I even tried to ask her to be my friend in the bathroom the day I came back, but all she did was yell at me and call me names. I didn’t want to tell anyone because everyone loves her, and I didn’t want to start trouble, but she was the reason I got akumatized.”

“She yelled at you?” Alya’s eyebrows raised in surprise, and Lila nodded.

“I just don’t understand what I ever did to her to make her not like me,” she said. “I’m really sorry that she’s taking it out on you.”

“It’s not your fault. Marinette was always a little eccentric. I just don’t know what pushed her over the deep end.” Alya sighed, leaning against her fist. “I guess…our friendship didn’t mean as much to her as I thought.”

Lila eyed her with pursed lips before a smile stretched across her cheeks. “If I was your best friend, I would never leave you like that, Alya,” she said. “In fact, if you want, I could move up to sit by you, but I completely understand if you’re still torn up about Marinette. I’d never try to replace her or anything.”

A small smile curled on Alya’s lips. “Thanks. I could use a friend right now.”

Lila placed her bag on the desk, beaming as she took her new seat. Alya eyed her with a contemplative frown.

She’s a liar. I’ll never be friends with her.

“Just promise me one thing,” Alya said.

“Anything.”

“Promise you won’t ever lie to me,” Alya said.

Lila blinked in surprise but linked their pinkies together nonetheless. “I promise, Alya. You’re my friend. I’d never lie to you.”

“Thanks, Lila. You’re the best.”

♪♫♪ Save Rock and Roll ♪♫♪

“So, you guys really aren’t friends anymore?” Adrien asked later that evening.

Marinette’s chest tightened. Adrien had called her after his Chinese lesson, having overheard about her split from Alya at school. She didn’t dare wonder what people were saying about her—even thinking about it made her skin crawl. Maybe it was for the best that she was going to see Jagged Stone tonight with her new friends. She needed the distraction.

“Nope,” she said. Setting her phone on the dresser, she grabbed sweater from her closet and held it up in front of the mirror.

“Are you okay?” Adrien’s voice was laced with worry.

The corners of Marinette’s eyes stung, and she chewed her cheek, focusing on her outfit. Adrien had already seen her cry once in the last 24 hours. She wasn’t about to let it happen again.

“I don’t know.” She hung the sweater back on the rack with pursed lips and shrugged. “It hurts, but so did being pushed aside for a new girl.”

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I know you two were close.”

“Not close enough, apparently.” She swiped through hangers with a little more force than necessary.

“And you’re sure you don’t want to try to work things out?”

Marinette tapped her finger on the bar and nodded. “If I tell her that Lila is lying, it’ll just be more of the same. Even if we told her that Ladybug called her out, Lila would still twist it and make herself the victim.” She grabbed a jacket and slipped it on. “How do I look?”

“Incredible, as always,” Adrien said, bringing a flush to her cheeks as she brushed her hair in the mirror.

“Sorry your dad won’t let you come with us,” she said.

“I’m used to it by now. He barely lets me go to the movies.” Adrien sighed, swiveling back and forth in his chair.

“I’ll try to get Jagged’s autograph for you.”

“Thanks. I promise we’ll do something together soon, even if it’s just sitting on a couch eating ice cream,” he vowed, and Marinette smiled.

“I’m glad I still have you,” she said. “You have no idea how much it means to me that you understand.”

“I’ll always be here for you. Even if I can’t leave my house, you can call me anytime,” he said.

“Thanks, Adrien.” She picked up her phone and waved. “I’ll see you later.”

“Have fun at the concert!”

After he hung up, she pressed a soft kiss to his picture on the screen. Who knew that all she needed to do to get Adrien’s attention was change schools? This was the most they’d talked since they met, and although she wasn’t ready to tell him her feelings, she was loving the attention.

“Ready to go?” she asked her kwami.

“This is your first time hanging out with your new friends outside of school! I’m happy that you’ve made friends so quickly,” Tikki said.

Marinette hooked her purse over her shoulder with a smile. “I have a good feeling about this group. Even if they are insanely rich, I feel like they’re different. They aren’t stuck up or arrogant like Chloe or Gabrielle. They’re nice.”

“Marinette! Your friends are here!” her mom called from the living room.

“Coming!” Marinette closed the clasp of her purse and skipped down the stairs.

“Got your phone?” her mom asked.

“Yep.” She nodded, holding it up.

“And you’ll call us right away if anything happens?” her dad added, arching a warning brow.

“Of course.” She stretched up to kiss his cheek. “Bye, Papa. Bye, Mama.”

“Have fun, sweetie!”

Marinette waved over her shoulder as she headed down the stairs. The limo was waiting outside, and Macy’s butler opened the door when she approached.

“How exciting is it that we have backstage passes to see Jagged Stone?” Macy squealed. “Honestly, Marinette, you’re the best.”

“I still feel a little weird about it,” she admitted sheepishly.

Eliott glanced up from his magazine and rolled his eyes. “Jagged wouldn’t have given you the tickets if he didn’t want to. When you have connections, there’s no shame in using them. That’s how you make friends in high places,” he said. “Don’t worry. We’ll teach you everything you need to know.”

“Then your old friends will all wish they didn’t turn their back on you.” Macy linked her arm through Marinette’s. “Because you’re already the most incredible person I’ve ever met, and I’ve only known you for a couple days. You stood up for someone you didn’t even know, you’ve got all kinds of celebrity connections, and you are wearing the cutest jeans I’ve ever seen!”

“Thanks, I stitched the pattern in myself.” Marinette ran her fingers over her trademark flowers.

“When you start your own fashion line, I want to be your first customer,” Macy said, and Eliott set down his magazine with a scoff.

“Not if I get there first,” he said.

Macy stuck her tongue out at him as they pulled up to Martin’s building. Macy’s butler opened the door again, and the scrawny boy climbed in timidly.

“Hey, Martin.” Marinette smiled.

“Are you sure it’s okay if I come too?” he asked.

“Of course! You’re our friend now,” Marinette assured him.

Martin shifted his gaze to his lap with a small smile.

On the drive over, Macy and Eliott chatted about how annoying their expensive phones were, leaving Martin and Marinette to sit in silence.

“Um, thanks for this,” he said, stealing a quick glance before fixing his gaze back on his shoes. “I’ve never really had any friends. Everyone just kind of walks all over me.”

“Can I tell you a secret?” Marinette pressed a hand to the side of her mouth. “I used to be a lot like you.”

“Really?” He blanched.

“At my old school, Chloe Bourgeois used to torment me all the time, but one day someone stood up to her for me and helped me find the courage to do it myself. It gave me a lot more confidence, and I was able to branch out and make more friends.” She lowered her gaze with a frown, heart sinking. Now wasn’t the time for a pity party, so she shook it off and continued, “That’s why I stood up for you because I know how much it changed my life when someone did it for me.”

“Wow,” Martin said. “I still don’t think I could ever be as confident as you.”

“Never say never.”

Awkward silence stretched between them while Macy and Eliott continued gossiping about various celebrities. They were so comfortable with each other that Marinette didn’t know where to interject. She decided it was better to leave them be—she had enough to think about anyway.

She leaned back against the seat with a sigh, recalling old memories of sleepovers and birthday parties and scheme after scheme to get Adrien’s attention. All of that seemed so far away now, and she was left with a gaping hole in its wake. She missed her friends. She missed her old school. She missed all of those memories, and more than anything, she wished she could go back.

But too much had changed now. Lila had everyone wrapped around her finger, so things would never really be the same. Besides, being around Lila wasn’t good for her, and if her friends couldn’t see the truth… It was best for her not to be around them either. Even if it left her feeling empty. Those holes would fill with time, and she’d make new memories with her new friends. Her old life would fade, and eventually she wouldn’t even remember what it was like before.

She had bigger things to worry about anyway—such was the lot she took on when she accepted the call to be Ladybug. Superheroes couldn’t afford to take chances, and Marinette couldn’t afford to have bad friends. This concert was a fresh start for her, a chance to carve a new life with new people who wouldn’t toss her aside like old bread.

When they arrived at the venue, Penny was waiting for them by the back entrance. She draped their passes around each of their necks and clicked her pen.

“Don’t lose these and keep them on at all times, okay?” She instructed before pressing a hand to the Bluetooth device in her ear. “Yes, I’ll go check on Mr. Stone now- uh, come in, the show will be starting soon.”

“This is so exciting!” Macy bounced beside Marinette. “I can’t believe I’m gonna get to meet Jagged Stone, and it’s all thanks to you, Marinette.”

“Yeah, thanks for hooking us up, Marinette.” Eliott echoed.

“It was you who encouraged me to ask, Eliott, and we wouldn’t have gotten here without Macy, so really we all had a hand in it.” Marinette waved it away.

“This is a disaster!”

They all stopped short as Jagged stormed into the hall.

“My lucky jacket is ruined! I can’t do the show like this!” he cried.

Penny rushed to his side to investigate the ripped article in his hands. “I’ll get with wardrobe to see if they have a different one,” she said, but Jagged shook his head indignantly.

“If I can’t wear this jacket, I won’t do the show.” He crossed his arms over his chest.

“But Jagged-”

“It’s lucky! All of my best performances happen when I’m wearing that jacket, and who knows what might go wrong if I go on without it!” he whined.

“Jagged?” They turned to Marinette, her friends standing behind her with bewildered expressions. “Is everything alright?”

“Yo, Marinette, you made it, rock on!” He pulled her in for a tight hug. “Too bad I have to cancel.”

“All of this over a jacket?” Martin asked, shrinking when Macy and Jagged turned to him with cutting glares.

“A rockstar’s show isn’t just about music, Martin. A performer’s wardrobe can be the difference between a rock legend and a rock nightmare,” Macy explained with a scoff.

“She’s right. I can’t go on like this. I look ridiculous without it!” Jagged said.

“Maybe I could fix it?” Marinette piped up, and everyone’s heads whipped around to face her.

“Could you really, Marinette?” Jagged perked up.

“The concert starts in 10 minutes. People are already in their seats,” Penny said, consulting her schedule. “Can you make a repair that fast?”

“I can try.” Marinette shrugged.

“Then I leave the fate of my show in your hands, Marinette.” Jagged handed her the jacket. “I have total faith in you.”

Marinette examined the tear in the shoulder seam with a determined frown before pulling out a mini-sewing kit. Sitting cross-legged on the floor, she set to work trimming excess threads.

“She carries a sewing kit around with her?” Eliott cocked a brow.

“She’s a designer, of course she does,” Macy said.

Everyone watched her work in eager anticipation, and after a few minutes, Marinette pulled the thread tight to close the gap. Knotting off her work and clipping the last thread, she held it up proudly.

“Done!” she said, and everyone breathed sighs of relief.

“Marinette, you’re my hero!” Jagged cheered. He cupped her cheeks, planting a kiss on her forehead before donning his jacket. “If you hadn’t been here, I wouldn’t have been able to perform. You’re a real lifesaver.”

“3 minutes!” One of the stage-hands announced as Penny passed Jagged his guitar.

“If you ever need anything from me, you’ve got it, Marinette.” Jagged winked.

Marinette bit back a shy smile as the arena erupted with cheers.

“See? If you hadn’t asked Jagged for tickets, you wouldn’t have been here to help him,” Eliott said pointedly as they stood on the sides behind the curtains to watch.

Marinette glowed with pride. Eliott was right. If she hadn’t used her connection to be there, then Jagged would have canceled. It was a weird coincidence, but it eased her guilt about asking for such a big favor, like she was paying Jagged back.

What would her friends back home say if she told them she saved Jagged for real? Of course, Lila would probably come up with something bigger and better to one-up her, but at least she could tell Adrien about it later.

“I want to dedicate this next song to a very special young lady,” Jagged said into the mic. “She has been a huge inspiration to me, and I want to invite her on stage to sing this one with me. Clara and I wrote it to honor the heroes of Paris, and tonight she was my hero, so come on out here, Marinette.”

“No way!” Macy gasped as they all shoved Marinette out onto the stage.

“Marinette is exceptionally talented.” Jagged wrapped an arm around her as she joined him. “In fact, if it wasn’t for her, tonight’s show wouldn’t have happened, so tonight this song is a tribute to you, Marinette. You’re my everyday Ladybug.”

Marinette cupped her hands over her mouth, cheeks hot as she took her place at the mic. As Jagged began to play a familiar melody, she looked at him for her cue.

“Another day, I’m back at school. I think about him, he’s so cool.” She glanced at her friends who gave encouraging nods. “He looks at me, I look away, but does he see me anyway?”

Sensing her unease, Jagged sang along with her softly until it was his turn to take up the second verse. By the second chorus, Marinette was gaining confidence as the crowd cheered them on. She removed the mic from the stand and paced across the stage, touching hands with people in the audience. She was no Clara Nightingale, but she was having fun performing with Jagged. As she belted out the last chorus with Jagged, a familiar rush pulsed through her veins that reminded her of Ladybug.

She was powerful. She was confident. She was free.

#mdcspr #marinette dupain-cheng's spite playlist remix #my writing

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arlakos · 4 years

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Miraculous New York Special: First Trailer Impressions

I’m gonna be brief with this statement: I’m not really looking forward to the special. Sure it’s a new episode, but i got burnt out on canon long ago, and the ao3 salt-fest has left me in a state where i haven’t really quit, but haven’t been motivated to make a lot of ML posts.

That being said, its got the fandom excited for new miraculous content, as well as myself, so lets talk about the trailers. Here are the trailer vids that I’ll be referencing in the video and be talking about.

(For reference, this was made on the 22nd of September, so this is all speculation and first opinions. Don’t flame me if one of my speculations are proven correct.)

youtube

First of all, every single hero released for the trailer thus far has so far been female, with knightowl and sparrow being unconfirmed. That being said, if its anything like the comic its based on, im pretty sure the New York Hero team will push the message of ‘Only girls get to be heroes/heroines, while the boys are regulated to be side kicks’ - justliketheactualshow heyyyyyyyyy!~

Also, its been confirmed that one of the heroes Names is Snowflake. Either Astruc really likes lame puns, or he didn’t hear the memo about the marvel comic hero with the same name.

Or he did hear about it, but thinks its good and that people who downvoted it are ‘fake fans’ 😒.

Chances are Snowflake will have a sidekick named Safe Space, and if she does im gonna need a ice pack for my forehead cause i already want to slam my head against the desk.

Also RIP my boi Doorman. You had only one role in the comic and even that was taken from you by the show.

F in Chat for my boi Doorman :(

And his partner, Uncanny Valley

Oh, and Victory too. She seemed like a cool characters.

Actually, just and F for all the ret-gonned heroes. At least the Quantic Kids have company now in the shiny light of shelved ideas.

Back on the Topic of Sparrow, i reckon he’s going to get the short end of the stick this episode. Considering that he has no actual powers in the comic, and the fact he can’t run from a swarm of a rockets and has to end up being saved by Ladybug, I reckon he’s going to be Chat Noir levels of usefullness. That is to say - he’ll probably be made by Astruc to be incompetent in the face of the ‘better’ female heroes.

SPEAKING OF LADYBUG HOLY HELL I AM ALREADY ANNOYED-

Look, i read the comics (unfortunately) and chances are Ladybug is going to be the main focus of the episode again.

Yeah, i know, Ladybug is the main character and all, but ideally I’d hope to see an avengers situation where all the heroes partake in the battle and contribute equally, and it would be nice to see Ladybug (and Cat Noir) get some mentorship from older and more experienced heroes...

Chances are though, the actual heroes will treat Ladybug and Cat Noir like sidekicks and ignore them, only for there to be a situation where Ladybug can fix everything while the other heroes cant, or for Ladybug to have on option on how to win the battle where its the only right one while the other decisions the other heroes make and wrong and Lila-levels of evil and...

Yeah im getting a bit to mad at this, but long story short, Ladybug is gonna steal the spotlight from the other heroes, and everyone will adore her like the Mary Sue she already partialy is.

“Nothing is impossible for Ladybug” Yeah, like talking normally to a boy to a boy you like, instead of relying on convoluted plans to make him fall for you.

Oh, Hawkmoth is in the episode? Damn... I was actually really hoping that we would get to see some new villains this episode, and not just more stinking akumas.

The hell does he want with antique guns though....

Oh damn... Nevermind... It seems he found a new miraculous, considering the pendant around Gabriel’s neck and the white glowing Kwami. Shit just got a lot more interesting...

Looking on the trailer now, it could also be likely that Hawkmoth will have his own side story that will be going on while the heroes are fighting the New York villains, so it would mean we will get to see actual new villains in the show.

I’m actually hoping Gabe story involves him teleporting to Paris...I like the idea of him using his time away from Adrien to further his plans and not being there as a result of Adrien.

In any case, I’m hoping for Hawkmoth to only appear towards the end of the show with whatever plan he has cooked up.

Speaking of akumas (and moving on to the 3 eyed girl), its a high chance that with Hawkmoth in new Yorks, she’ll be an akuma in disguise based on the trailers alone. With her being a possible fan of the american heroes, she’ll probably want in on the heroism, making her a perfect target for Hawkmoth. I mean the purple eyes are quite notably creepy, and the skin looks altered like other akumatized villains. Yeah, i expect this to be a Volpina situation all over again.

On a side note, my friend @twin-books said that she looks like a monster high character, and I honestly cant blame her. At first glance she looks like a mummified Cleopatra. XD

On a more positive note, I really like the orchestral Version of the Miraculous Ladybug theme. Its really great, and has an avengers vibe to it...

...but on that same note, Astruc probably deliberately made it that way, considering he has an ego the size of Ego from MCU, and probably thinks he can make movies better than most Marvel creators. He thinks himself on the same writing level as the Russo Brothers, but in reality he’s on the level of Kathleen Kennedy. Which is to say...very low 😈.

Actually wait, I just realise Zag does all the Miraculous music... nvm its really goddamn good, but my previous point still stands.

I don’t know if this is just be being annoyed at the Captain Marvel film, but Majestia reminds me too much of said heroine. I dunno, she rubs me the wrong way. I hope Majestia’s attitude wont be the same as Captain Marvels, but its likely considering Astruc’s idea of ‘good female heroes’

That being said, I like the other heroes designs, even Artica (im not calling her Snowflake). Considering I don’t know much about the heroes in the show, im gonna try to be positive and like them before I judge them.

So this has been my speculations/ first opinions on the New York special! I really hope the episode will be good, but if it isnt... well I’ll try to enjoy the good parts at least.

P.S. If you like, please reblog

#Miraculous Ladybug #Miraculous Ladybug New York Special #First impressions #First Opinions #Speculation #ML New York #Ladybug #Chat Noir #Majestia #New York Miraculous Heroes

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evil-butterfly-man · 6 years

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an Adrien meta

Because I’ve seen some posts recently that really got me thinking about his character, so excuse me while I go on a rant:

He and Chat Noir seem like different people

That is true! I also believe this is kind of the point? When offered the Miraculous, Adrien jumped at the chance to become a superhero without even bothering to learn how his powers work. It’s his one outlet from the sheltered, lonely upbringing, so it makes sense to me that he would lash out wildly in the other direction. This is contrasted with Marinette, who rejected the idea of becoming a superhero because she didn’t consider herself worthy, and then embraced it out of a desire to help people and a strong sense of responsibility. Marinette is a little more confident as Ladybug, but she also isn’t an entirely different person, because Marinette genuinely likes being Marinette. Adrien - and I say this with love - likes being a hero because he can be someone other than himself, so his motivations are slightly more selfish than hers (and which is why she’s the hero and he’s the sidekick). He just isn’t quite sure who he would like to be, so he sticks to the fun, flirty persona because it’s the polar opposite of his everyday self.

Does it mean he’s a selfish brat?

No, not really. He has his moments, sure, but overall Adrien is genuinely kind and generous, even when it’s detrimental to his own goals. He helped Fu, he used his fame to help out with ice-skating rink, he tries to get Chloe to be a better person (…eventually), he stepped down and let Max take his place in a gaming competition because it was important to him, he is kind to an obsessive fan, and most of all, he is kind to Marinette (he sometimes gives her bad advice, but it’s hard to fault him for that). So his heart is definitely in the right place.

Entitled To Have You: the Ladybug problem

His most glaring character flaw is his entitlement towards Ladybug and the tantrums he occasionally throws at her. It’s pretty bad, and I wish the show would acknowledge it more often. Probably “Glaciator” was the worst offender (although I haven’t watched “Syren” yet). I’m hoping there will be a proper resolution to this storyline.

But my main point is: I’m not saying the whole thing is Gabriel’s fault. It’s just probably Gabriel’s fault.

Adrien’s exposure to relationships was pretty limited, so the biggest influence on how he sees them were his own parents. That’s understandable. And Gabriel is the sort of person who builds shrines to his wife and would move heaven and earth to have her back in his life. So we can probably assume he wouldn’t handle Emilie’s rejection well - or, rather, that he would see it as an obstacle to overcome, just as her absence is a problem he is desperately trying to fix. Now, we don’t know what their relationship was like, so I’m just making wild assumptions here. But let’s say it went something like: I love this person, she’s amazing and incredible, I need her in my life, and I will do anything to have her. So it’s a lot like how Adrien views Ladybug.

…okay, this sounds pretty sinister. Which, it is not! But contrast this with how Nathalie handles being in love with someone: she loves Gabriel, but realizes that he doesn’t love her back, and that her trying to win him over would be a terrible idea. So at the end of the day she’s happy that he is a happy. She’s of course a much more passive person than Gabriel, and it’s anyone’s guess if it’s better to calmly accept your lot in life or to fight passionately for what you want to achieve.

Again, contrast this with Marinette: her motivation is confessing her love to Adrien. Not winning him over. She just wants to let him know that she’s interested in him. Her goal is slightly different, and it gives Adrien a lot more agency than Adrien gives Ladybug. But: Marinette had much better role models to look up to, and a much healthier view of relationships.

Want vs Need

If this was a Disney movie, Adrien’s most obvious character arc would be him going from “I want my father’s approval” to “I don’t need my father’s approval because I’m my own person and my father is kind of a jerk” (like in Hunchback of Notre Dame, or Tangled, or other movies dealing with abusive parents). I don’t know if that’s where the show is going with him, let’s see.

My actual point is this: Adrien’s main motivation in life seems to be winning Gabriel’s approval. There are other things he wants, like freedom and friendship and Ladybug, but Gabriel’s terrible parenting overshadows every area of his life. Like, does he even enjoy fencing at all? Or Chinese, playing the piano, modelling? See, Marinette loves her creative pursuits and knows that her parents love and support her. We get the feeling that even if she decided to drop fashion and start playing bagpipes or whatever they would still support her. But what would Adrien do with his life if he knew he could count on his father’s unconditional support? I think he stated in that web video Adrien’s secret life that he “doesn’t mind modelling but mostly does it to make his father happy”. Literally all his hobbies are an attempt to connect with Gabriel, and I’m curious to know what they would be if that wasn’t a deciding factor.

Wow, it really sounds like Gabriel is a terrible parent, doesn’t it?

I mean. He is.

But it isn’t malicious on his part? He genuinely loves Adrien and wants what’s best for him. He just… doesn’t realize that he’s doing something wrong or just how miserable his son is (or he realizes, as “Stormy Weather 2″ suggests, but would rather have Emilie back because she’s a much better parent than he is and he is unwilling to work on himself to improve that).

But hey, you know who knows Adrien is unhappy? Nathalie. You know who’s actively trying to make him less unhappy? Nathalie. You know who’s determined not to let him find out that she cares at all? Hey, it’s also Nathalie!

It’s kind of curious to me, because even prior to that unnecessary monologue, the show made it very obvious that Nathalie cares for Adrien. There were multiple scenes of her being happy when Adrien’s happy, and miserable when he’s miserable. But it only happens when Adrien cannot see it. Like, she goes behind his back to talk Gabriel into letting him go to school, or spending more time with him, or maybe not endangering his life so much. And it’s kind of tragic that Adrien doesn’t know about this. He is still more open about his emotions around her than anyone else, he just doesn’t think she cares. It’s that kind of situation that could be easily rectified with Nathalie occasionally saying something like “I’ll talk to your father and maybe try to get him to change his mind” that would make a huge difference in their relationship, but she just… doesn’t do that.

Mind you, that’s not the issue I have with the writing. I like the drama and the angst. It’s fun for the viewer, but less so for the characters in the story.

Is there a conclusion to this rant?

Not really. I’ve just seen several posts that are incredibly critical of Adrien, claiming that he’s never called out on his terrible behaviour. Which got me wondering why he’s behaving terribly in the first place, and how much of it can be blamed on the Gabriel.

In conclusion: a lot.

Hopefully the show will eventually address Adrien’s issues and give him room to grow as a person!

#miraculous ladybug #adrien agreste

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thewritewolf · 6 years

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True Sight Chapter 8

When I saw the chapter title, I got excited ‘cause this is the first Marichat scene in my story! Which I love because Marichat is my favorite part of the love square. And now I get to share it all over again here!

Enjoy!

Read on AO3

After an eventful day, Marinette was looking forward to working on her jacket for Adrien. She was thankful that her injuries were healed by her ladybug restoration, otherwise her parents would have been even more worried than they were. Simply knowing that she had been in the area was tough for them. The fact that she had almost been injured would have been too much.

She had made excellent progress when she heard a knock. A glance at the clock showed it was very close to her parents' bedtime, so it probably wasn't them. She lifted the trap door, but saw no one. The knocking became louder, and this time she could pin the sound to the door to the balcony. With trepidation she went to poke her head out, finding Chat Noir crouched outside.

She was too surprised to respond at first, and he grinned. “I know, I know. Take a moment to compose yourself. I am a lot to take in.” He then had the audacity to strike a pose, sprawled out on the ground to be eye level with Marinette, who was still mostly inside.

That brought her back to Earth. Speculation on why he was here ground to a halt so that she could fix him with an eye roll. “What's up, Chat Noir? Don't you have heroics to be doing?” No, he probably does not. There was already one akuma today and he isn't scheduled for patrol.

“Oh, but this is part of the heroics job! I am making sure that you are safe and sound. It was a really close call there today.”

Well, he isn't wrong. She found his concern endearing, but exasperating. “I'm fine, Chat. Thanks to you, of course. Ladybug's power even fixed the scratch on my cheek.”

Chat nodded, then gave an exaggerated shiver. “Oh Purrincess, it is so chilly out here. Do you mind if I warm up inside before I leave?”

“Is that the line you use to sneak into all the young ladies' rooms at night?”

He blushed furiously. So the charmer can't take his own medicine, hm? “W-well, it's n-not like that, I just, uh...” He was cut off by her laughter.

“It's okay, silly kitty, I'm just teasing. Come on in.” She had intended to politely turn him away, but he just looked so sad outside. Like a stray, really.

She climbed down the ladder just as Chat swung into her room, landing on her bed. She turned back towards him to notice him taking in her room décor. Which prominently featured another famous green-eyed blonde.

His jaw dropped, clearly stunned, as he slowly turned his head over to Marinette. She could feel the heat rise on her cheeks. “They are for research!” She blurted out. “I like Adrien's work, I like fashion, Gabriel Agreste is my design role model!” She calmed down a bit, before taking in Chat's confused look. “Plus... He is a good person that I hope to become better friends with.”

Chat's expression softened into a gentle smile. “Sounds as though you like him, Princess.”

“Yeah...” She said dreamily, before realizing what she could be admitting to. “Wait! Well – yes, but as a friend.” She smiled nervously, hoping Chat would give up this line of conversation.

Thankfully, he did seem to let go of the topic. His gaze landed on the jacket. His green eyes lit up. Even in its unfinished state, it very clearly borrowed heavily from the aesthetic of his own costume. He looked back to Marinette, a wide grin on his face. He swaggered over to her and leaned in. “I didn't realize you were such a big fan of me, Marinette.”

She held her ground and pushed Chat back by his shoulders. “Down, kitty. I'm making this jacket for a friend, who is a big fan of you.”

“Oh? And can I ask who that might be?”

“No, but it is the same boy that I mentioned to you the last time you were here. Remember? Back when Glaciator was after me?”

A cloud of sadness passed his face before it was covered by a smiling mask. “Yes, I remember that night. Did I tell you that I finally did get Ladybug to that romantic rooftop get away I showed you?” He splayed out on the chaise.

Yes, you did show me it. Twice, as a matter of fact. Out loud, she said. “No, you didn't. Good for you, Chat! How'd it go?” She sat down at her desk, one arm over the back of the chair. She was studying his features, looking for insight into how well he took rejection.

“Alas! My lady says that she is in love with another.” His voice was wistful, his expression distant. Then he flipped over so that he was lying on his stomach. This put him facing Marinette, and he locked eyes with her. “But I am a persistent cat, and I'm sure it is only a matter of time before she falls for my roguish charm.”

“And in the meantime?”

He settled back down on his back, hands behind his head. “Until that day, I will be her loyal friend. Even if we never get together, her friendship means the world to me.”

While she seriously doubted that he would ever displace Adrien from her heart, Chat's loyalty was sincerely touching. “And what about you, my honorary Ladybug?”

The nickname caused Marinette's heart stopped for a moment as she processed his words. Realizing that he hadn't figured out her secret, she asked. “Honorary Ladybug?”

He tilted his head back to look at her upside down. “Well, you were my Ladybug during that fight with the Evilistrator. And you remind me a lot of Ladybug – selfless, always helping your friends, courageous. Don't think I didn't notice that you only got caught by the akuma earlier today because you made sure all your friends were safe.”

Now Marinette was blushing from the praise. It was nice – if a bit scary – that someone noticed the Ladybug in her.

“But, you haven't answered my question yet, Marinette.” He was pushing the chaise closer to her with his foot, stopping within arm's reach of her. He flipped over so that he was on his stomach again, head resting on the back of the chaise nearest to her.

“What about me, kitty?” She pet his head, just behind his ears. It was surprisingly soft hair. She started laughing quietly as she heard a soft purr emerge from his chest.

“How did things work out with this mystery boy of yours?”

She leaned back and began fidgeting with her hands. “Well, we are talking more, and hanging out more. So that's a start. But...”

“But...?” Chat tilted his head.

“...I haven't admitted anything to him yet.” She finished meekly. She sighed. “I wish I had your courage, Chat. At least then I'd know one way or another if he liked me back.”

“Don't worry too much about it, Princess. He would have to be an idiot not to like you back.” His voice, in contrast to his usual joking tone, was low and earnest. His eyes were distant.

Not for the first time, she felt remorse for Chat and how that whole situation went done. If the roles had been reversed, and Adrien had let her down gently, she wasn't sure if she would have been as composed as Chat had been. Then again, I would have been composed up until I got home...

She looked back to her partner, who was absently staring at the wall. He didn't talk about his home life much, but a year of friendship with him had given her some clues. An empty house and a distant father weren't something that she wanted to send him back to. Not when he was in this state.

An idea popped into her head. “Chat?” His eyes flicked to hers. “Is there anywhere you need to be in the next couple of hours?”

He grinned. “Already trying to get rid of me?” He tried to play it off as teasing, but she could hear the disappointment in his voice.

“The opposite, actually. I was just about to put a movie on while I worked on the jacket, and I wanted to know if you were going to stay and watch it with me. Although, be warned: It will be a Disney movie.”

He seemed to light up at that. “That won't be a problem at all.” His tail began flicking back and forth.

She held up a finger. “But be warned! We can't sing along, since my parents are sleeping.” His cat ears pressed against his head and his tail fell flat as he pouted, which made Marinette giggle. She got up and Chat tilted his head in confusion.

“I'm getting snacks, kitty. There should be a few croissants left, and I'll make us each a glass of hot chocolate.” Maybe not the best for a late night snack, but he looks like he could use the comfort.

His tail resumed its low swinging as she walked down the stairs.

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

“You're in luck, Chat, there were some strawberry croissants left down-” She stopped as Chat quickly turned to her. He was standing over her desk, one hand behind his back. His face with flushed and he met her eyes with a panicked grin.

“Chat...? What did you do?” She was more amused at his reaction than anything. He probably didn't break anything, since she didn't hear a crash. Why is he so flustered?

He scraped the ground with his boot and looked everywhere but toward her.

She set down the plate of goodies, which Chat Noir looked at longingly. His focus became fixed on her when she stepped within arm's reach of him. “Chat. Show me your hands.”

He brought his hand from behind his back to reveal that it had been snared by a pink box with white polka dots. She was stunned for a moment before she began laughing.

Chat Noir pouted. “Why did your box eat my hand, purrincess?”

“It is to protect the book inside. I'm feeling a lot more confident in my magic box now. After all, even the famous Chat Noir was no match for it!” She flicked his bell and laughed.

He tried to keep pouting but before long he was laughing too. As Marinette went to get the key, Chat looked at the box attached to his hand. “So what's so valuable that traps capable of beating super heroes are required?”

“My diary is in there, with all my secrets.” She fished the key out of its hiding place and went to free Chat. He was looking a bit paler than he had before and seemed worried.

“I'm sorry! If I had known it was your diary I wouldn't have reached for it. I was just curious about what it was...”

She smiled and patted his head. “It's alright, kitty. Just don't do it again and we'll be fine.” She put the key in the lock and freed his hand. “Now, help me choose a movie.”

#miraculous ladybug #marinette dupain-cheng #chat noir #marichat #ml fanfiction #True Sight

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kisilinramblings · 6 years

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If Gabriel finds out that Adrien is Chat Noir, would he ask his son to join him?

Before I answer this, there is some details I need to lay down and please note that all the dialog excerpts I will provide are translated directly from the French dub.

First, Emilie has become a taboo subject inside the Agreste family. Gabriel never spoke out about whatever has happened to her to Adrien.

Gabriel : Why did you take the book?

Adrien : I just wanted to know what you were hiding that was so important behind mom’s portrait. You— You never answer my questions, Father!

– Collector

This is also brought up at the end of Gorizilla when Gabriel plays the DVD.

Gabriel : You simply had to ask me.

Adrien : I’m sorry. I’ve tried to talk to you about it but you were always so busy. In fact, I– I really feel like you do not want to bring up the topic…

The topic being Emilie. This hints that Gabriel usually avoids talking about her, probably to prevent unwanted questions. Adrien might also think those questions provoke painful memories to his father.

This better explains why Adrien was so stressed when asking the permission to go to the movie theater at the beginning of the episode. This was the first time we ever witness him showing signs of nervousness around his father such avoiding gaze, keeping distances by standing next to the door and playing with his ring. Emilie is such a taboo in the family now that Adrien was anticipating a bad reaction from his father upon learning the movie his son wants to watch stars Emilie in the main role.

Adrien might respect his father desires to not talk about Emilie, but at the same time, it hurts Adrien to be kept in the dark like this. In Syren, he snaps out, tired that his questions are yet again unanswered by another person he loves and trusts.

Back to Gabriel. It is unclear why he hasn’t told Adrien about what has actually happened to Emilie. Ignorance is bliss as they say and chances are it is related to the Kwamis or the lore surrounding them, so secret about the Kwamis are primordial. Plus, Gabriel still refers to the spellbook as seen as Volpina and Syren, so it still holds some pieces of the puzzle and when he loses it in Collector, he knows that his identity is put in jeopardy. As Gabriel elaborated his plan to create supervillains in order to bring out the holders of the Miraculous of Creation and Destruction and get their Miraculous, the secret becomes essential for him in order to protect his plan, his goal and his family unity (for what remains of it). But there might also be other underlying elements…

Gabriel : If you begin to hide things from me, I may start imagining the worst scenarios. You understand?

– Gorizilla

As Gabriel says that line, he is looking at Adrien’s ring. For him, if his son is Chat Noir, this is horrible news. This is a situation he intrinsically doesn’t want to be true. Why? Is it really only because the two goals are opposite and that means they will be enemies and fight? After all, just like Ladybug, Chat Noir is bound to protect his Miraculous so it doesn’t fall in the wrong hands and protect the world’s balance. Gabriel, on the other, needs the Miraculous so he can bring Emilie back. But the situation of having to fight his own son might actually waver Gabriel’s will to succeed… especially if he was doing all of this for Adrien’s sake.

Yes, it IS messed up but this is a theory I have and I will keep the lengthy explanation for another post after Malediktator airs. But basically, when Emilie disappeared, we can assume Gabriel felt powerless. As a husband, but also and more importantly as a father.

We currently ignore how it went when Adrien learned his mother was gone and Gabriel is distant and neglectful, but he is not blind. Adrien was way closer to his mother. Each time they discuss, the reminder is there. Adrien calls him “father” while he refers to Emilie by the term “mom”. Adrien also has no picture with his father in his room. His computer background is usually a picture of Emilie with or without her son by her side. Same thing for Adrien’s phone. All the pictures we have seen so far are either Adrien with his mom or Nino.

I wonder if a thought as “It should have been me” has ever crossed Gabriel’s mind. I think he wishes the three of them to be together again, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Gabriel would want to rewrite the past so he is the one to be lost in the process instead of Emilie. Because he might think Adrien needs Emilie more than him. That might also be the reason why Gabriel has grown so distant.

Anyway, back to the question. If Gabriel learns Adrien is Chat Noir, would he ask his son to join him?

Frankly, I don’t think he will do so... directly. He obviously cannot tell him he is Hawkmoth. Like, he better give away his Miraculous right away while he is at it. No, Gabriel is more clever than that. What he can at least do is informing Adrien about what has happened to Emilie. Especially if it is related to the Kwamis. He can also let him know that he knows his secret. Problem is, depending how it is done, it could be genuinely out of concern as it can be emotionally manipulative. It all depends of his motivations behind it. Is it to warn his son or to use him?

If he is doing this for Emilie’s sake, he would be more motivated than ever to pursue his goal with the help of his son, letting him know there might be a way to fix things. At the same time, Gabriel and we, the audience, don’t know how much information Adrien possess about the Miraculous lore. Master Fu only started recently to pay him visits, so we don’t know for sure if he is aware of the equivalent exchange part of the wish yet. And I think Gabriel will be careful to avoid Adrien makes a mistake. And Plagg sure will do his part to protect his holder as well.

However, if Gabriel is trying to bring back Emilie for Adrien’s sake, his motivation might actually waver as they get closer and communicate more. Up to the point Gabriel would confessed he is HM? I think he would be too ashamed to reveal that important detail about him. Plus, it would greatly disappoint, wound and anger Adrien to the point of losing him as well.

Would he secretly resign as Hawkmoth then? I don’t think the story will go that far. I can't wait for the Peacock holder to show up because what can force Gabriel to keep being HM if he is blackmailed. That doesn’t mean he cannot protect or help Chat Noir on the side.

One thing I believe though is if Gabriel’s secret is out and he loses Adrien as a result, I can see him still continuing to chase after the Miraculous so he can fix the situation by preventing Emilie’s fate AND never ever becoming HM.

#miraculous ladybug #gabriel agreste #hawkmoth

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