A/N: Bet you weren't expecting this.


Fox Tails; Chapter 29: Just Desserts and Flower Cages


In Principal Damocles Office,

"You wanted to see me Mr. Damocles?", Alya walked into the principals office. During the set up for the party, she had been called to the principals office suddenly.

"Ah yes, please have a seat Alya.", he motioned to one of the chairs. She noticed there was another man in there as well. A tall man with cascading hair that was a mix of purple and green and held in the back with a ponytail.

"Now then Alya, I've called you into the office on a very important matter.", he said.

"Okay.", she nodded, "But, who is...", she looked at the other man.

"Allow to me to introduce myself.", he spoke, "I'm Yamamoto K. I'm RVER's manager."

"Y-Your RVER's manager?!", she gasped, "Really?", she couldn't believe it. One of her favorite bands managers was talking to her. At her school. This was amazing! Beyond amazing.

"Mr. Yamamoto is here because of...come content on your blog.", the headmaster explained.

"It came to my attention you run a blog called the 'Ladyblog'?"

Alya nodded, "Y-Yeah. I mean yes I do. I'm the creator."

"I see.", he rubbed the stubble on his chin, "And do you write and post all the content on the blog yourself."

Again Alya nodded, "Yep, I'm the only one who works on it. It's a passion of mine.", wanting to be a reporter when she grew up.

"And tell me, on your last post, where did you get information from?", he asked.

"I'm not following?"

"Let me explain.", the manager cleared his throat, "You see miss reporter, as the bands manager it is my responsibility to make to that the bands image is held to a certain standard.", which included making sure to stay on the up and up of bands activities, both professional and socially, "So when I heard a certain blog, yours, had posted an article about a fan hanging out backstage with them. I took it upon myself to look into the matter personally."

"However, before my investigation even started I got another alert about a song, one of Rain's, being played on the same blog.", and though he was not entirely surprised hearing a song play on a site, it was the situation of the song that had him come down to the school.

"I still don't follow."

"Well it's like this.", he paused for a moment, "That song you uploaded onto your site, claiming to be written for a close friend of yours, was actually a song Rain had written."

"I know.", she understood that.

"I don't think you do.", he shook his head once, "You see. This song is, or rather was, a special one of a kind song Rain a personally written for...someone close to him.", so special that not even he knew about it until he brought it up with Rain. And to say he was upset. Would be an understatement. And even furious was rather a low description.

"I still don't understand.", Alya spoke.

"Miss reporter, the reason I'm here is because the story you wrote and the song you posted on the blog. Have, by all accounts, ruffled a bit of fur with the band.", especially Rain, "Which brings me here. You see, the song you posted was stolen.", he revealed.

"Now hold on.", the headmaster spoke, "Are you saying you believe this item in question was stolen."

"I don't say. I know.", he stated, "Rain confirms that only five people, including himself, had the song.", and he was sure none of them had talked about it, let alone given it to someone for posting.

"And you think Ms. Alya has any involvement in this?"

"That song wasn't set for release.", it was never even going to be on an album as far as he knew. "While we don't how she got a hold to the song. We believe Alya has some involvement."

"And I trust you have proof for these allegations."

"How about the fact one of the songs was released this morning on her blog.", he pulled up the Ladyblog and showed the video from this morning which had the song, 'Burn Brighter', had been playing continuously.

"That song was a private, exclusive song. It wasn't supposed to be released.", now it had been leaked, "That seems to prove her guilt."

"I didn't steal anything.", Alya defended.

"Then how did you get that song on your blog?", if she didn't steal it, then she had to get it from somewhere or someone, "Either you took it or you know who stole it."

"Alright now let's calm down.", Mr. Damocles stepped in, "I'm sure there is an explanation for this."

"Which is what I am trying to figure out.", though their seemed to be only one conclusion, "All individuals who had possession of the song denied showing anyone else the song.", which included Rain himself.

"How do you account for this, miss reporter?", again he looked to Alya.

"Well I didn't steal it.", she denied, "I love RVER. I would never steal from them or anyone. Especially Rain."

"That still doesn't explain how you got a hold of the song and decided to post on your blog.", which by all standards were rather foolish since it was stolen property, "You also claimed it was made for a 'close' friend of yours.", he added.

"It was. I mean it is.", she said, "Rain wrote it specially for them."

"And you claim to know the person he wrote that specific song for?", he inquired.

"I do.", she nodded, though rather hesitant, "She showed me the song and said it was a special song for her."

"And to what level did he write this song for her?", he asked. Reminding her he had already spoken to Rain and knew the details of the song.

"Well, because the two are such great friends". Having known each other for years.

"Friends?", he sounded rather amused, though lightly, "I think you might be thinking of someone else. You see that song was written for someone more precious than someone you described.", someone much higher in Rain's heart. A heart that was now in full storm mood and was no doubt thumping violently.

"But, but I'm innocent."

"I would hate to accuse someone as...young as her as something as serious as theft. But, all evidence points to you and you alone.", he said.

"But, I told you I'm innocent. I would never steal from Rain.", she defended, "I got the song in an email from Rain himself.", she even pulled up her email to show them. Mr. Yamamoto seemed to only glance for a moment, but his expression seemed unchanged.

"As I've said earlier, as the bands manager I keep tabs on all the bands actions.", that included email exchanges that pertain to business involving the group, "Each group member has specific email addresses and inboxes for both personal and private us.", all of which were checked daily to make sure nothing suspicious got in or out, "And this email you claim to be Rains, is in fact not his at all."

"I-It's not?", she blinked.

"That aside the song still appeared on your blog. So until you have a feasible excuse as to why you were possession of the song, then I'm afraid we must assume the worst.", and no one wanted that.

"Please believe me I didn't steal anything.", she pleaded.

"Until you can prove it, then I'm afraid your words aren't worth much.", the manager shrugged a bit, "And without anything feasible, then I'll have no choice but to take action otherwise."

"Action?", that didn't sound good.

"Legal action.", he stated, "For not only the information released on the blog, but of course the song that was posted with permission."

"Are you saying the band is threatening to sue Alya?", the headmaster said with surprise, "I mean she's just a student. A child."

"Well for one thing it would be Rain suing. Not the whole band.", he corrected, "Since he is the creator of the song and gave no permission for the songs release, he has the right to take legal action against the blog and it's creator for theft of property.", he pointed out.

"But isn't that a bit much. I mean it seems like a honest mistake."

"You might think so.", but Rain didn't, "Rain was furious when he found out the song had been not only uploaded, but claimed as another's. For him, it tarnished the value for who the song was written.", and what it was intended for, "And as the manager I have to do my duty to make sure my clients wishes are met.", within reason, "It only got to this point when it was determined no one had given permission for the song would be released.", now everyone was downloading it. Playing it non-stop.

"Still this seems a bit extreme.", the headmaster spoke, "Alya, if you have any explanation for this now would be the time to talk.", he was giving her an opening to explain herself.

"But, sir I...I didn't know the information wasn't real.", she tried to explain, but they the atmosphere of the room her words didn't appear to reach those. Not the headmaster. And especially not Rain's manager, "Please believe me. I had no idea about any of this."

"Then where did the information come from?", the headmaster questioned. If Alya had an explanation now was the time to come clean.

"I don't actually know.", though more or less she was looking into the claims. It was a big story and she wanted as much information as she could get. But, after everything, she found that in her pursuit of the truth. She had forgotten the actual truth and instead was getting rumors.

"So without proper information you released a rumor onto your blog. Along with a stolen song.", he said with disappointment.

"I know this looks bad and I don't really have an explanation. But, please believe when I say I would never do anything to hurt anyone.", let alone steal.

"And you never verified the information?", fact checking was the number one rule in her profession.

"I did.", she replied, "I mean, the story was so convincing and came from a trusted source of mine."

"But, did you check from anyone else besides this source of yours?", by her expression they got there answer.

"What do you have to say for yourself young lady?", all eyes turned to Alya.

"I didn't know I was hurting anyone.", she tried to defend, "Everyone loved the stories.", she commented. Though perhaps that wasn't her best statement in this moment.

"Loved or not, that doesn't excuse invading another person's privacy and releasing unchecked information.", he scolded, "Spreading idle gossip to the school. Possibly the city. I expect better from my students.", especially the blogger, "I've gotten calls claiming slander, defamation, copyright. All coming from those stories you've been posting."

"But, sir..."

"No, buts.", he cut in, "Using technology to harm another person, of any kind, is considered harassment.", especially in a school, "Until this matter is resolved I'm afraid you will be punished."

"Do you have anything to say for yourself, Ms. Cesiere?"

"Just that. I'm really sorry.", she apologized, "I didn't mean to hurt anyone. I just got so caught up. And I'm prepared to accept any punishment."

"Right.", he cleared his throat, "For one thing, as of today you are banned from the schools blog. That includes posting articles of any kind. During school hours before class you will turn in your cell phone to your teachers who will return it to you after class. You are being placed on academic probation for the remainder of the school year.", which meant she could no longer participate in school trips or functions that were sponsored by the school itself, "You will also apologize. Both verbally and in a three page report on what you did.", when it was all said and done Alya hadn't said a word. Still sitting in her chair she absorbed the information she had been given.

"Finally, you will have detention. After school for a month.", she was to report to a designated room for a predetermined time.

But Mr. Yamamoto spoke, "To be fair if you can give definite proof that shows otherwise then I suppose there would be no need for charges."

"Really?"

"But, that's a pretty big order. You'll have until six o'clock this afternoon.", that was when the band was leaving, "If you can find some proof before then, then I'll reconsider you as a suspect.", and the charges that came with it, "As for now, I need to get back to the band and make sure everything's still together.", heaven knows what type of damage Rain could do when he lost his cool.

"I'll be at the hotel.", along with the band, "You can come after you've come with some proof.", and nothing more, "Until then, miss reporter, best get your ducks in order before you head into the storm. And please remove any post pertaining to the band. Ja ne.", with that he strolled out of the room.


At City Hall,

Mayor Beogiouse was sitting at his desk going over another stack of papers that had been placed on his desk. Awaiting his approval or not, he went other with a fine tooth comb. All while enjoying a nice muffin his assistant had brought in for him.

'Ring, Ring'

Usually a phone call for a regular thing in his office. But, seeing the caller i.d, the mayor tensed.

'Caller:Wife'

"H-hello my precious darling.", he greeted happily, "How are you this...um, I'm sorry I can't understand you.", her voice was going a mile a minute.

"Well can you understand this!", the voice on the other end yelled, "I just got a call from one of my assistants, Carmen or whatever.", she never could remember many names correctly.

"Good news I hope."

"DOES IT SOUND LIKE I'M IN A GOOD MOOD TO YOU!", her voice boomed, causing Andre to nearly fall out of his chair in shock.

"I-I don't understand dear. If you just tell me..."

"That's what I'm doing!", she cut in, "In a couple of months 'Style Queen' Magazine is doing a shoot with Lady Iro. One of the biggest names in films.", it was going to an entire spread to celebrate the names of films. And Lady Iro was one of the top names. She was also hard to pin down. Especially for a photo shoot. Even interviews had be booked before hand because of the actresses schedule. And having Lady Iro in her magazine exclusively would boost the magazines reputation and stake the claim as the best magazine for fashion.

"T-That's great news. Marvelous even."

"I'm not done.", she said, "We were supposed to be doing a shoot. But, now it might not happen. And do you know why?"

'Well I'm not..."

"IT'S BECAUSE OF YOUR DAUGHTER ANDRE!", she yelled.

"Our daughter? Oh not Chloe. Our princess.", he tried to defend.

"Well according to Lady Iro, her and that's little children she goes to school with, apparently 'crossed' her."

"She has a daughter?"

"Not the point!", she snapped, "The point is Lady Iro is threatening to leave the shoot. A shoot that I spent months trying to get.", and now to have it slipped through her fingers. It would ruin her reputation of not only herself, but her magazine.

"But, I'm sure Chloe didn't...", he tried to defend.

"Don't even try Andre.", they both knew Chloe wasn't an angel as her father tried to paint her as, "She also told me you used your 'influence' to have her daughter punished. Honestly, Andre what were you thinking?"

"I was just...I was told...I was merely making sure our daughter and her friends...", he was trying to fix things for his princess.

"Well now your going to fix things!", she demanded, "You and Clover."

"Chloe.", he corrected carefully, "And what do you want me to do? I don't even know who Lady Iro's daughter is.", he just now knew she had a daughter.

"Well you better do something!", she demanded, "Your daughter and her little monster of classmates have not only crossed her daughter. But, apparently all her children. Are you both trying to ruin me!"

"Of course not.", he denied, "Clearly this has been a misunderstanding. I will quickly correct it my sweet muffin.", he promised.

"If I lose this client to another magazine, I will make you pay for this! Do you hear me Andre! Fix! Fix it! Fix it!", she demanded repeatedly.

"Yes! Yes! Of course my love. Anything for you.", he nodded repeated.

"Then get it done! Or you and your daughter will both be fired!", with that the phone clicked. Ending the tone.

"Oh dear...", this was bad. Very, very, bad. Worse than bad. His wife was upset. Setting the paperwork aside he had to fix things and fast. Starting with finding Lady Iro's daughter and making amends with her. If not, his wife was going to skin him alive and line the mansion with his pelt.


Back at the Lycee Voltaire

Kitsi had taken a break from the festival and the group she had picked up along the way. Though she liked the attention, positive attention, even she needed a break. So after excusing herself she found herself on the school roof of all places. Though she was hoping to rest, something in the back her mind told her something. What, she couldn't place.

Opening her bag she pulled out a book. That book. Which she swore she didn't even think was real until she found it just laying in her backpack.

"What you got there Kit?", Whissp asked, as he and Caliburr poked their heads out of her hair.

"Just a book someone...lent me.", though it was still up for debate.

"It's not the weirdest gift I've ever received.", one time she got a melon and another time a whole tuna fish, "It was still nice of her to give up such an interesting looking book.", she opened the front and read the intro.\

'...There once lived a woman long ago. Where she came from was unknown. Yet, many knew she did not live alone. Her husband was nowhere to be seen. Her son away from from reach. And her little daughter, who walked the paths among the trees. Spoke to the creatures no one else could see...'

'An Old Fable'

"I don't know Kit something about that book seems...odd to me.", Whissp commented, "I can't place my paw on it but...", something in his mind told him he should be remembering something.

"Looks like it could be interesting.", she would read it later at home, "I hope that old lady got home okay."

"Old lady?", the two kwami seemed confused.

"Yeah, just...thinking about something.", she excused, "Anyway, I could go for a nap.", a nice sun nap would be nice. She stretched before laying back on the roof.


Back at Dupont Francis College,

"Alya would you just talk to me?", ever since she had come back from seeing the principal Alya had been on pins and needles. She had been pacing back and forth, muttering to herself. Her boyfriend, Nino, was worried. Had it been that serious, "Seriously, what's wrong?", he questioned.

"What's wrong? What's wrong?", she stopped looking her boyfriend in the face, "My life that's what wrong. After months of blood, sweet, and tears my life as a reporter may be over before it even took off."

"Okay babe, you need to chill.", he said carefully, "Also what are you talking about? You've been tense since you came back from the principal office.", was she in trouble or something.

"Nino it's...I can't...I don't even know how to explain this.", she put her hands in her face.

"How about starting with taking a deep breath.", he suggested, "Seriously your acting like your about to be arrested or something."

Alya froze and groaned, "You might be right on that."

"Huh?", he looked confused, "Babe seriously what is going on?", he was really worried.

'Ping, Ping!'

"What was that?"

"A notification I got.", he explained that had friend had sent him the link to a blog that covered movies and things of that nature. Since he was into things like film, he had subscribed to the channel, "Let me just..."

"I'm your disher of all things gossip here in Paris. To be exact, it's Don with your weekly facts!"

"Don?", she looked at her boyfriend.

"Donny Morgan. He's got a pretty good channel.", he commented.

"Today we have an array of juicy gossip that has been lighting up the switchboards!", he said excitedly, "All from curious viewers wanting the exact facts of stories that have been sending social media sights into a frenzy."

"As many citizens of Paris knows one of the biggest sites in the city is the Ladyblog.", he said, "Which is the topic of the weekly panel."

"My blog?", she raised an eyebrow, "Why would my blog be on a gossip checking site?"

"As you know it is my job to look at stories with a microscope and see if they hold up to the hype.", he informed, "Many of my wonderful watchers have noticed something rather fishy in the waters of some of the blog postings on the site noted for its stories on Parisians own heroes and their daily deeds to keep the city safe."

"But, these last uploads haven't been about Ladybugs, cat's in black, for fiery foxes going up against a mysterious figure terrorizing the city with evil butterflies. No these stories, as commented by the viewers, seem to be something from a fiction site and not reality."

Nino and Alya looked at each other.

"One such story, which dropped only yesterday, involves a story about Rain. Yes the Rain. The lyrical voice and leader of the highly popular band RVER.", a clip of the band came up on the side of the screen, "As RVER came and rocked the city of Paris, many people were rather surprised finding the reporter of heroes reporting on the band."

"Or rather the bands leader.", he corrected, "In the video posted on the Ladyblog the author tells the story of someone went backstage with the band themselves and gave an exclusive tale of her time with the band."

"Well if many of you are turning green with envy, you can put it away until St. Patrick's because as you know on this channel we check facts."

"Where is he going with this?", they had a bad feeling about this.

"According to sources working the venue where the band played. Many witnessed Rain, leaving right after.", he explained how a number of people contend the singer and band leader left the venue after the concert.

"He...what?", Alya paled.

"Sources also show video evidence of the singer not only leaving the venue.", shown by fans who had been lucky to get a picture with the singer, "But, those working backstage deny any fan being around or near the band.", this included crew, staff, and even security working the venue and watched the band.

"So it looks like this piece has a few holes in it.", he concluded.

"Many fans have gone online questioning the validity of this story. Citing major conflicts of the information.", he showed a number of posts that had been pulled from the website itself and many other websites as the video spawned a rather large collective discussion.

"As you may remember this questioning came about when the so-called reporter of the news and creator of the Ladybug, Alya Cesaire, posted a video of a mysterious, new girl as a welcome to Paris. Who, isn't really mysterious, as she claimed she was best friends with Paris's own heroine of hope, Ladybug!", he showed a picture of the heroine as she swung into action.

"With statements claiming not only being saved by the heroine, but also close friendship with the lady in red. And the reporter backing her. Posting numerous stories and interviews on her blog and receiving a number of views for the surprising information. Yet, many wondered who this girl was? But, now it seems many wonder who this girl think she is?", citing that while being friends with Ladybug or any superhero was impressive. Many had grown suspicious, even annoyed at the girl and the story.

"Fan's are calling fowl bigger then Mr. Pigeon. Citing more inconsistencies with the girls claims. Including time, date, and even the fact that there is no proof of such act happening." , he listed a number of discrepancies that had been brought forward and were now growing.

"Leaving many to wonder has the hero chaser now become a story chaser? Is she allowing anything to be posted on her site? Is she clickbaiting people to her blog with unchecked news to pad her website? And can the site be trusted after this controversy or is there more to this scandal?"

"For now we go to are Q&A portion of the blog to hear from viewers.", he said, "First caller...", with a ding a caller was patched through the channel.

"Hello I'm WolfFan4.", the caller introduced herself, "Yeah, I have some questions about the story about Rain."

"Seems we have a RVER fan.", he commented, "What's on your mind?"

"Well the video posted about the concert. Shout out to Rain!", she exclaimed, "Anyway, what is the author's deal with this girl she posting about? I mean every week is always something about her. I'm all for accounts and everything, but it's kinda of getting boring."

"A little salty are we?"

"Not really. I just don't see what makes this girl so special she needs to be interviewed every other day. I mean she says she was backstage with the band. Where's the proof?"

"Hold that thought we have another caller.", he pressed a button.

"GoTomatoGo here.", a guy spoke, "I'm with the last girl who called. Where's the proof of this story. I want to see it happening, not just here about it."

"Looks like it's going to be a salty session today.", Donny said opening up more lines, "DomingoFlamingo, your on."

"I got through! Cool!", the voiced, "If we're still on the subject of the Ladyblog. Personally, I think it's gone downhill. Now it feels like I'm watching a gossip site.", they said in disappointment, "Doesn't really feel honest anymore. You know."

"No gossip sites are a bit more interesting.", Donny commented on the side before opening up more lines.

"I wanted to see something about Rain. Not about about a girl who 'says' she knows him."

"I was hoping for something interesting."

"The site has turned into a fanfiction site at this point."

"Who even is this girl?"

"There's nothing but a girl talking half the time. What's the point?"

"I thought reporters were supposed to unbiased. But, this blogger seems to like this girl a lot.'

"The story was pretty 'meh'"

"As you just heard, many are wandering has the Ladyblog become a gossip site. With more stories and less substance, new polls have showed many of the blogs loyal viewers are turning in their subscriptions.", he brought up a chart showing the numbers for the website, "As you can see after recent posts and comments the blogs viewer-ship has taken a hit.", and going into a decline. Showing the lowest numbers many had ever seen for the site. People were divided on what to believe on the site or whether the blog was still worth viewing having been the first site to show content on the heroes.

"Is this the end of the once revered blog site? Has the author peaked? Can the site make it another day?"

"Join me later where I bring on a new special friend onto the show.", and with that the stream went to commercial. As the channel went to a sponsored commercial, Nino and Alya sat their in cold silence. After a moment Nino looked at his girlfriend, noting her features as she stared at the phone.

"So...want to talk about it?"


At the Agreste Manor,

Gabriel Agreste was many things. But, when it came to business, especially his own, he kept to high standards and expected the same quality for anyone and everyone who worked with and under him. So if someone should make a mistake, under his watch, the designer would act accordingly. Today, however, the fault seemed to weigh on himself.

Having missed a vital opportunity to make a new client. A potential client that would have been a perfect canvas for his new ideas and plans. He had been, for the most part, simmering quietly in his office. Looking through design projects to ease his mind. Yet, he continued to think about his elusive target who taunted him with her ways of getting out of his reach and refusing his offers again and again.

But, he did not get where he was without being patient. He would get another chance. It was only a matter of time before he found a new way to 'entice' her under his wings.

As he continued to go through the designs a phone called beckoned him.

Answering the call, he spoke...

"This is Gabriel Agreste."

"Hello again, Gabriel.", a voice spoke that sent ice down his spine.

"Lady Iro.", he compose himself, "To what do I owe the pleasure of your call."

"A pleasure for one, but not the other.", and soon to be neither by the sound of her sweet, yet icy tone, "I warned you that if my little firecracker wasn't happy, you wouldn't be.", she reminded.

"I still don't understand your discontentment."

"Then I shall explain. From my sources, your son, has given mon petit petard quite a bit of heartache.", she said.

"Meaning?"

"Simply put he seems to have given her the wrong impression. Added to the fact he embarrassed her by rebuking unrepresented feelings in public.", both of which added fuel to the fire of the actresses growing annoyance with the city.

"With much do respect, Lady Iro, my son would never think of doing such an act not only to a young lady."

"Well my sources say otherwise.", she said, "Though some of the information is rather questionable, it doesn't change the fact my little girl is upset. For that, until the matter is settle, I don't feel it is appropriate to have her working on the shoot."

"Fine. Have this settled by the end of the day. Then I'll reconsider the promotion.", she said, "But, Gabriel, let me say this. If my little firecracker is not happy or heaven forbid her mood is made worse. Your head won't be the only one I come for.", and was making a list.

"Believe me this matter will be handled."

"I would like to believe that, but there are some certain areas that leave me concerned of the competence of others.", she said, "I've already had to warn Audrey Bourgeois about her daughter. And with what I have to do and had to do, I don't wish to keep repeating myself."

"Your son and his companions have hurt my daughter. Even if you tell me he had no involvement of any kind. You and he, affiliate yourselves with those that did."

"With all do respect, I do not affiliate myself with those who would create problems for not only myself, but my business as well.", that included Adrien, "I would like to ask where your getting your information?"

"My information is sound.", she said, "And from what I've learned, your son affiliates himself with those who enjoys spinning long yarns.", she said, "If there is one thing I do not appreciate is being pulled along. Especially by those who believe they can use mine and myself and think they will be allowed to feel the warmth of the sun.", with a pin, an image pulled up on his screen. Opening it he found himself staring at a familiar face.

"This girl?"

"From my what my sources says she's quite the 'charmer'.", she said, "Spinning tall tales as long as Pinocchio's nose. And from what I've been shown is rather close to your son.", she added pulling up pictures of the two together.

"Close?" , he raised his eyebrow slightly.

"Apparently their dating.", she informed, "It's a surprise the media hasn't covered this to death.", she could see the headlines now.

"Adrien is not dating.", Gabriel popped that bubble, "Even if he was I would know about it."

"I'm sure.", he could feel her smile, "Though, I must say they are close. From what I gathered the two are quite close. And from what she says, your son and her are dating."

"She's lying.", he deadpanned, "Just a rumor."

"A rumor you say?", she gave a sound of thinking, "But, they must be dating. How else would they be having lunch together this evening at one of nicest cafes in town. Or her being his plus one to your Spring Fashion Show.", she listed to the designer who was becoming more frustrated by the moment. Even behind the cold and stern mask he chose to wear.

Gabriel was stone faced. Yet, there was an air of annoyance around him from the information being given.

"More rumors. Honestly, I don't know where people come up with these ridiculous stories.", he dismissed them

"And I suppose the fact her name being on the line-up of models for the fall fashion line up is another rumor?", she added.

"Of course.", adding that no model was added or taken off without his direct permission, "I don't just allow 'anyone' to be in my shots. Just like I don't allow just anyone near my son.", the girl was obviously delusional.

"Still my information doesn't lie. Unlike that 'friend' of your sons.", she commented, "If I could give you some advice. Best make that clear to him. Because if this isn't handled. You and I will be doing more than talking."

"Because I would hate to think what others would say if they found out the golden son of the King of Fashion, was found affiliated with a pathological influence of unchecked facts.", because one was judged by the company they keep. If it was true his son had become linked to the girl no doubt people would talk. Make assumptions about him.

"Trust me this will handled, quickly.", he stated.

"Will see.", she said, "Now if you'll excuse me I have a few more heads on the cutting board today. The work of a mother is never done. Until then, Ja'ne."

As the phone clicked off, Gabriel stood there in calculating silence.

"Natalie.", he pressed his intercom.

"Yes, Mr. Agreste.", his assistant answered automatically.

Gabriel was not amused. His plans would have to wait.


"Ugh this is so lame." Alya groaned as she looked at her phone. She and Nino were at her locker. The blogger was seething as she stared at the device, "My numbers are going to tank after this gets out. I have to explain about the live interview that won't happen.", not that it mattered at this point because there never was an interview to begin with, "And to top it off I might be getting sued because I posted a stolen song on my blog.", Alya had been tearing through her blog erasing any and all interviews she had done with the transfer student. She couldn't believe she had been doped so easily. She should have known better. But the stories were so interesting that her excitement overshadowed her journalistic senses to notice something may not be right. Especially when the first interview brought in so much traffic to the site.

"Sorry babe." Nino tried to comfort his girlfriend. After the tense meeting with the principal and RVER's manager he had been trying to keep his girlfriend calm and positive. Though, even he was having trouble finding a bright side to this.

"Not as sorry as Lila is going to be when I get my hands on her.", she hissed, "Can you believe all that mess she said? Best friends my backside!", she stomped her foot in frustration, "Now I need to figure out a way to explain all this.", a simple retraction wasn't enough. People had seen her posts and hundreds of people had already downloaded the song. People were expecting this interview between the famed singer and one of Paris's beloved heroes. Now there wasn't even anything she could do about it. She couldn't call any of them up and ask them. Especially Rain, who according to his manager, was not too happy with her recent post. Stating that would not allow any site post unchecked facts or property of the band.

"I am so miffed right now." she folded her arms.

"Your not the only one.", almost everyone in the school was either shocked, disappointed, or plain upset. Mostly their classmates being on the beginning end of the rumor mill. Were now dealing with the consequences of buying into all those stories.

Kim had lost a bit of credibility with most of the students after word got around he hit a girl during gym class. Though he thought it was an accident, at least recognized now as an accident, most people had begun to talk. And from what he heard even students from other schools had found out and weren't happy. Even receiving a threat from, who Max had described as, a surfer jock. Who had basically put a target on Kim's back and everywhere else.

"Hey guys.", a tired voice said.

"Dude, you okay? You look horrible.", Nino commented on Adrien's exhausted appearance.

"Great. It matches how I feel.", he frowned, "I've really done it this time."

"What happened?"

Adrien exhaled, "I told my dad I could get Rain to wear some clothing from the up incoming spring line.", it was a hard sell, but his father agreed to the condition as long as he got the singer to agree to endorse the clothing.

"How is that bad?", Rain was a popular singer so it wasn't a surprise that other companies and designers would want him and the band to endorse their products.

"Rain was supposed to be wearing the clothes today. They had even been sent to the hotel.", but nothing happened. As it turns out Rain had little knowledge of the collaboration. Only agreeing once he spoke with his mother after she spoke to her daughter. His little sister, "It also got bad when Rain's mother got involved."

"Rain's mother?"

"Lady Iro." Nino spoke with a new glimmer in his eyes, "She's a major player in the acting community." she had starred in dozens of movies and television shows and was quite known all around the world for her various roles in media. She was also the mother of Rain. The two having been seen to together during award shows and red carpet events, being in dozens of films, promotions, and television roles, "She's amazing."

"She's also a big client of my father's.", wearing the glamorous pieces at award shows, interviews, and even during movie shoots and television appearances. Which is why when it turned out Rain might not promote the Agreste Brand, along with Lady Iro, his father become rather upset.

And that was a light way of explaining it.

"Why would you tell your dad you could get Rain to wear his clothing?", that didn't sound like something Adrien would do. Promising something he had no control over.

"It was the only way I could get him to let me out of my schedule.", it was a form of bargaining he had done so he could hang out with his friends and keep an eye on Kitsi to smooth things over, "Worst part is when my dad found out the truth the first time, I thought I would never see the light of day again.", but now. Forget having a more flexible schedule, he could kiss public life goodbye.

"Sorry bro." Nino sympathized.

"I don't know what I was thinking." he shook his head. Looking back now he might not have thought it through. He had been desperate and trying to fix too many things at once.

"Sorry Adrien.", Nino said.

"You don't need to apologize, I should have known better.", he admitted, "Now it's too late. After my father gets done steaming from today's news. My goose is pretty much cooked.", and from the his talk with Natalie he knew his father was beyond the description of upset. Half of him wondered if he should return home.

"If you never see me again. Know that you guys were the best friends I could ask for.", he at least wanted to say goodbye.

"Dude, calm down.", Nino said, "You sound like your about to sent off to jail."

"Don't say jail.", Alya groaned as she continued to go through her phone.

"What's up with Alya?", Adrien asked. He hadn't even noticed that Alya seemed to having a pretty rough time too.

"Alya's blog is having a bit of a crisis.", basically it was countdown until she would have to go live and try to explain why her special guest wasn't going to be present, "There may have been an issue with some of the content she's been posting."

"Issue?"

"Basically false information and possibly copyright.", which was was the softer way of putting it, "Plus Rain's manager might think Alya stole something from RVER's hotel room.", he whispered the last part.

"Wait, stole?", even Adrien couldn't believe what he was being told. He knew she went to the hotel. But, stealing someone else's property did not sound like something Alya would do.

Though they might explain why Rain was so upset when he talked to him earlier. He must believe Alya stole something from him.

"I know. It's completely bogus.", he knew his girl was innocent, "But, unless Alya can explain how one of the songs from the master track got onto her blog, my girls blog might be on the fast track to the chopping block.", and possibly getting sued and facing legal troubles.

"That's horrible.", sure he had his own problem, but it sounded like Alya was having her own crisis's. Though given what he had been told, slowly freaking out, would be a better word for it.

"Yeah it's pretty bad.", he exhaled, "As it turns out that story about Rain was basically bogus. And the song that he had sent to Alya to uploaded to the blog was actually a private song that wasn't even supposed to be released.", he hadn't even sent the song to her in the first place.

"Ugh, I need to sit down.", before her head exploded from frustration. She left off down the hall leaving Nino and Adrien at the lockers.

"She's really having a rough time."

"With everything going on, I can't blame her.", Nino looked on sadly, "I wish I could do more to help her.", but Alya was stubborn. She wanted to look for the clues and figure out the problem herself. If she just talked to him then maybe they could figure something out together.

"It will be okay Nino.", he said in support of his friends.

"I hope so dude.", he really hoped so, "Now I have to figure out how to talk to both Lady Iro and Rain and convince them to continue the collaboration.", which was hard because he didn't even know how to get a hold to either of them. He couldn't ask his father or Natalie. And he didn't know anyone else that was even remotely close to either of them.

Just then a voice spoke, "Hey guys.", and both boys looked to see Lila. Creating her usual charm and pose that was sure to captivate anyone, "It's nice to see you both.", she smiled.

"Speak of the devil.", Nino muttered, though Adrien caught.

"But, how did you find out the story and the song weren't true?", he asked. Nino explained that the bands manager had come to the school personally and talked to the headmaster about the situation. Where he also gave Alya her ultimatum. Unless she provided proof to explain where she got the song from, she and the blog would face possible legal trouble. On top of the fact she had released unchecked facts that each member of the band and multiple people denied. Which of course only coupled with the internet basically picking her in comments about her latest posts. Even those loyal to the blog were turning on her.

And in school, especially theirs, news traveled fast. People weren't even waiting to hear her side of the story.

"You wouldn't happen to be close enough to Rain to talk to him?", he hoped.

"I wish I could. But, with everything happening Rain is pretty much MIA.", along with the band, "Plus I don't think he want to talk to me anyway.", especially with how disappointed he sounded when he found out what his classmates had done. Adding to the fact that he had trusted him, Chat Noir, with what he had told him about them.

"What about Lila?"

"What about her?", she was the last person he needed to think about right now.

"Well aren't you two like..."

"Like what?", friends? At this point he didn't know what to think of the girl.

"Be truthful with me bro.", he took a deep breath, "Are you and her a thing."

"A thing?", again he gave a confused look.

"I mean, are you two dating?", he whispered the last part and Adrien quickly went from confused to completely shocked.

"W-what!? No!", he stated, he denied completely, "Why would you even think that?", he only had one girl he liked and wanted to date.

"Well you two seemed to be hanging out a lot.", he pointed out, "And there was the flowers."

"What flowers?", he questioned.

"That flowers you had sent to the school.", with the note inside, "She was telling people that you personally sent them to her."

Adrien didn't know how to feel right now. Angry was one thing and embarrassed was another. He never sent her flowers.

"Nino those flowers weren't for her.", Adrien said, "They were for someone else. But, I was sending them as an apology.", not anything in romance, "Plus how did you even know I sent them. I didn't even sign the card."

"You didn't'?", who didn't sign cards.

"No.", he wanted to make them anonymous, but he did leave a personal mark inside. Something Kitsi would recognize. He debated whether or not to sign it because he didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable or give the wrong idea. Which is why he had been looking at her most of time. Because he wanted to give her something to apologize and show her how special she was.

As a friend.

"Now I see why she never seemed affected by the gifts.", she never got them. And he was pretty sure whose fault it was.

"Hey guys.", a voice greeted them. And it was of the last person they needed to see.

"I saw you two talking. And I was thinking it would be so cool to hang out together.", Lila said almost sweetly, "I've been busy all day, but of course I make time to two of my closest friends."

"Yeah, right.", he said with an unusual tone, "Bro, I'll see you later.", he gave Adrien a smile and a pat on the back. But, as he left he didn't even pass a glance to the transfer student. Though looked back for a moment to glare at the girl before heading off.

"What's up with him?", she questioned out loud at the DJ's behavior, "He didn't even say goodbye.", or hello for that matter, "I wanted to talk to him about the music for the party."

"He's going through some issues.", Adrien mentioned.

"Anyway Adrien, I was wondering if you wanted to study after school today?", she asked, "We can meet at the library or maybe your house.", she offered. Though seemed so assistant on going over his house.

"I don't think so.", he quickly declined the offer.

"Oh.", she gave a small look of surprise at the quick and sudden answer from her classmate, "Well maybe we can have lunch together.", she offered, "We can listen to RVER's cd."

"I'm going to have to decline your offer.", he said again. Still polite in manners, but the tone was less then his friendlier context and with no hesitation in his reply.

"What's wrong?", she finally asked. Not liking the look she was getting or the fact he was refusing to hang out like they usually did.

"You lied to me.", he said with a stern tone that many people had never heard from the young model.

"What do you mean?", she said as if she was surprised by the other's statement. But, Adrien wasn't buying it.

And simply said, "I know you made up the story about knowing Lady Iro."

"What? No I didn't.", she defended.

"Yes you did.", he wouldn't allow her to try and lie to him again, "Lila do you know how much trouble my father got in after he sent those pictures to Lady Iro?", the actress was frigid by how his father explained it. Which only created a bigger problem when he had to explain the situation to his father about the mix up. Again. And from how his father sounded, the actress was not amused. And neither was his father.

"I don't know what your talking about. Lady Iro and I are defiantly friends.", she tried to defend, "You must be hearing a bad rumor.", she insisted.

But again Adrien didn't seem to believe her statement. With a look that bore into the transfer student.

"You mean like the rumors you've been spreading.", he stated, "Like telling people your going to be modeling for my father's brand because 'you' got Lady Iro and Rain to agree to the collaboration with my father's company. Or how Lady Iro told you personally that she wants you to star in one of her up incoming films.", he listed off the number of rumors that had been floating around that he was sure weren't even remotely true.

"I...I...", she mumbled, biting her lips with a look like she had been caught, "I can explain."

"No, you can't.", Adrien was upset, "Why would you lie to me like that?", obviously. But he needed to hear it from Lila.

"No. I mean those are just rumors.", she tried to right off, "You know just gossip people like to talk about.", she tried to play innocent.

"Lila.", he folded his arms, his voice serious, "This is serious. The last time this happened, your lies nearly cost my dad two clients.", three if he counted Lady Iro's daughter who he still hadn't met or heard from or even made it to the school, "Embarrassed his company, upset a client and her family, and to top it off because I vouched for you and your story. My father nearly had me grounded for life, again. And I was nearly pulled out of school.", maybe not for even a day, but the point still stood that she lied and was prepared to let others take the fall for it.

"If your not going to tell the truth. Then there's not point in talking to you anymore.", he closed his locker and prepared to leave.

"Okay, I...I don't know Lady Iro that way.", she finally admitted, lowering her head in possible shame and embarrassment from being caught.

"And what about everything else you said? Was anything you said true?", that was the one that really seem to hurt. Her expression gave it away, caught in a corner she couldn't think of anything to get herself out. What could she say?

"You've also been going around telling people we're 'together'.", he emphasized that last part. After everything she put him and everyone else through. To think she would be so bold not to think someone would call her out on her stories, "That I was your boyfriend."

"But you said you liked me."

"As a friend.", that still didn't excuse her behavior, "At least I did.", but now it had come to a point where he couldn't even hear her name without growing upset because of everything she had done.

"What about the flowers?"

"Flowers?", he raised an eyebrow, "Those weren't for you.", he said. He had bought those as a peace offering to Kitsi. Who, as far as he knew, hadn't even gotten them. It frustrated him how far she would go to keep her lies a float. To the point of taking something that wasn't even hers and lying about it, "You actually told people I sent them to you.", as a romantic gesture.

"Not really. People just assumed you did. And who could blame them. They were so romantic and beautiful.", she complimented, but Adrien wasn't buying it.

"I'm sorry. Adrien..." she tried to touch him, but he jerked away, "I didn't mean to lie. I just...thought you would like me more if..."

"If what? You lied to me. About me. To my friends. Your classmates. Who did nothing but try to be your friend.", he folded his arms.

"They wouldn't have liked me if I didn't.", she tried to justify that people wouldn't have liked her if she didn't have an interesting life or knew important people.

"You don't know that.", and it still didn't justify what she did, "Don't you even care that a lot of people who trusted you are now hurting?", Alya was embarrassed on her own blog and got in trouble with Rain after the fiasco with the interview and song released on her blog. Nino is upset that Rain that his girlfriend is upset. Kitsi still hadn't returned to school. Plus, there was the mess with Marinette who tried to warn him about Lila's lying.

But he didn't listen. He stuck to his self-optimistic morals and now was even a bigger mess than he was before.

"I wasn't hurting anyone.", at least she didn't think she was. It was just a couple of small lies. Everyone was so impressed and liked her. People wanted to talk to her. She was always the topic of peoples gossip. As long as she had a story to tell the more people wanted to be her friend. The small lies quickly grew as she tried to make herself sound more and more interesting.

"That's what you wanted to believe.", but it was all a lie, "You purposely lied to them and took advantage of their trust and kindness.", and that was worse than actually lying. Knowingly doing it even though you know there would be consequences.

And there were going to be consequences.

"If there's one thing I can't stand is people who would lie and misuse other people.", just for their own selfish purposes, "I need to go.", closing his locker Adrien prepared to head off.

"Wait!", a hand on his arm halted his motion.

"Lila?", he looked the girls sudden actions.

"I know I lied to you. And I'm sorry.", she tried to apologize, "I really didn't mean to hurt you.", but who would believe her now? If everyone was upset as Adrien said, no doubt they would never trust a single thing she said. Even if she were to apologize, no doubt they were mad at her.

"It's not me you need to apologize to.", there was a list of people upset because of her stories and deserved an explanation, "You tried to manipulate people. You knowingly used lies and deceit and tricks. Just to make yourself look good."

"And frankly, I can't trust anything you say.", even her apologizing felt fake in his ears and his eyes.

"Adrien I..."

'Ring, Ring'

It was Adrien phone.

"I have to take this.", without much else he went to answer his phone. But, just to be sure, he went somewhere Lila wasn't. The boys locker room. She wouldn't dare follow him there. Once he knew the cost was clear and he was in private he answered...

"Hello father.", he greeted his father as he appeared on the screen via video chat.

"Adrien, we have to talk.", he said.

"Is something wrong?", he asked carefully.

"On a list of things, a lot.", he replied, "Adrien, when you came to me with this plan to have Rain working with the company, at first I had my doubts.", which anyone would given the circumstances, "But, you assured me you could.", and along the way his mother and sister were added to list of those who would work with them, "Be serious with me now, when you made these arrangements with Rain, Lady Iro, and his sister. Did you actually speak with them before you came to me?", he questioned.

"I...thought I did.", he replied.

"You thought.", he hummed, "And tell me, did you happen to speak with anyone with any connection to the family at all.", not counting the daughter, Yuki, who had showed at the manor after a slip up with the photos.

"I, didn't.", he admitted, "Father, I don't understand."

"Of course you don't.", he replied back rather coldly, "Because of which, not only is Lady Iro upset. But, her son and daughter as well.", because of his lack of understanding.

"I still don't understand."

"The only thing you need to understand is that after today you will no longer be going to public school."

"W-What? Why?"

"Because that place is a bad influence on you. Nothing good ever comes from there and today was the last straw.", stating how a number of his friends and classmates had crossed Lady Iro and her family. One after another, "I've sent Natalie to come and pick you up. You should have your things gathered. After I speak to the principal, you will return home.", forever.

"But father, that isn't fair.", he tried to argue.

"Life isn't fair.", he stated bluntly, "Honestly, your acting like a child. I'm doing what's best for you."

"But, what about my friends?"

"Honestly you won't need friends like that. Nothing, but degenerates who apparently have no trouble lying and stealing.", from what he was hearing, "No, Natalie will be homeschooling again. And you will continue for extracurricular activities.", at the manor.

"But father...", he pleaded.

"That is my final decision.", and his decision was law, "You've disappointed my Adrien.", with that he ended the call.

"Father!", but it was too late. His father was gone.

After being told he would be locked in his room Adrien could only look at the door that had been literally slammed in his face. Looking around he found his father had gone true to his word and took steps to keep him in.

His windows would not doubt be barred on the outside. Like a prison cell or cage to keep him inside. He was going to be trapped again. Locked away without a friend in the world.

His father was defiantly upset. No furious would be a better word. Even if he didn't raise his voice, he could feel the disappointment in his words.

His father didn't trust him.

He had lied. And now he was going to locked his room forever.

"This is all my fault.", he sank down onto the floor. Back pressed against the lockers as he pulled his legs in close. A single flower lay at his feet. Picking it up, he just looked at it sadly. That was going to be him. A lonely flower, cut from the rest, with nothing to do but wait until he withered.

"Yeah your right.", Plagg said, "You know stuff like this wouldn't happen if you just listen to me. But no, you keep falling anything with pretty eyes.", he seemed to tease.

"Kid?" , Plagg called, "Come on kid buck up. It's not the end of the world. I should I know. I've nearly caused a few...scenarios.", most of which resulted in mixed results of destruction and a couple of extinctions here and there.

"...I'm going to locked away forever. All I wanted to do was go to normal school." , now it was all going to be taken away from him.

Because he lied. Because he wouldn't speak up. It was all his fault.

Now he would loose everything and everyone he cared about.

The butterfly had already merged with the flower.

"It's all my fault.", he muttered over and over.

'It's not your fault.', a voice spoke.

"It's not my fault.", he repeated.

"That's what I told you.", Plagg said.

'I sense a sadness within your heart. A passive soul, who wishes to reach out and speak what is they truly feel.' , the voice said, "Though you try to find good in all, you are blinded by those who would use your own kindness against you. Leaving you to suffer the consequences.'

"I only wanted to make everyone happy.", now he was going to be locked away again, "It's all her fault.", he growled.

"Ah kid...?", Plagg spoke, sensing something was wrong.

"I believed everything she told me. I tried to be her friend.", but she lied to him. Used him, "She's the one that needs to be locked up!"

"Okay kid clearly your having tough time. Let's take a deep breathe and talk this out.", Plagg said, though his voice more pleading.

'Accept this power and you shall be free. But, remember, you must do something for me.'

"I will keep my vow. Give me your gift and I will make you proud.", Adrien said, "All deceivers and liars will pay a price."

'I trust you will, Atrllis.', the voice said, 'I give you the power to become a tool of vengeance and use them against those who harm others.'

"Kid snap out of it!", but it was too late.

"As you wish.", with the contract seal Adrien smiled as he was encased in a black cocoon. When he stepped out he was dressed in an all black suit, tailored with various bands and metals. And a flower placed at his breast pocket.

"All deceivers will be caged in!", he declared before escaping out of the window. Leaving Plagg behind to absorb what he just saw.

"This is bad.", Plagg rubbed his head, "I have to...um...what do I do?", he was beginning to freak out, "Okay Plagg calm down. You are a smart, intelligent, roguishly handsome, super awesome being of destructive power!", he pumped himself up, giving a few punches in the air, "You definitely got this!", he declared.

"What am I thinking? I need help!", he flew off.


At College Dupont Francis College,

"Are you sure we should be here?", Perci had come to the school to look for his girlfriend. She had told him she was coming to Kitsi's school to retrieve the books she had lent her friend. She wanted Kitsi to have fun and enjoy herself. So while she was distracted with the festival, she slipped off to the school.

Though that was almost an hour ago.

"Yes. We're coming to make sure May is okay.", she hadn't answered his calls or his texts. He was worried.

"Ah, isn't that sweet. May's gladiator has come to rescue his princess.", Donny teased his friend.

"Yeah. I mean, May's my girlfriend.", of course he wanted to make sure she was safe, "Also it's the knight that rescues the princess.", he corrected.

"Apples and oranges.", it was still fairytale standards, "Think I can get some good footage?"

"Footage?"

"Yeah. This school is like akuma central.", since a majority of people who have been akumatized came from the school. Including the first one to appear in Paris, "Plus, if the Ladyblog goes south, this will make a great first feature on my blog!", he took out his phone and began recording.

Perci sighed, "Just keep an eye out for May.", he didn't want her getting in trouble or akumatized for that matter, "Where do we even start looking?", this school was big. She could be anywhere.

"I can't believe you!", a voice yelled.

"What was that?", Perci looked around.

"Sounded like some creature crawled up from the dark and prepared to rip some poor humans soul.", Donny commented, "We should go see it!", he encourage they go investigate.

"Really?", Perci stared at his friend.

"This could be a good story in the making!", and he didn't want to miss it.

Before he knew it the blogger was pulling him along to find the source of the angry voice. As they moved through the hallway they found the voice growing and there were more. And seemed to be overlapping.

"It sounds like it spawned.", into a mix of voices.

"What's happening?", and why were the going to it.

"Possibly an akuma attack.", they stopped at the railings that overlooked the pathway to the front of the school.

"Why are you up here?", Perci questioned.

"Vantage point.", Donny said, "See.", he pointed.

The two looked over the railing to see a group of students in the courtyard. They had formed a circle and looked like there was some kind of argument. Or rather a fight.

"This looks interesting.", Donny noted.

"I can hear anything.", Perci said.

"Not a problem.", using his phone, Donny zoomed in and increased the volume control that let them hear what the others were saying.

"That's...some interesting phone.", Perci commented.

"I know.", he really owed Kitsi one for sure, "Let's see what's happening."

"Please calm down.", May had been trying to calm the school blogger. Kim and Max having to hold her back as she tried to get to the Italian girl. Even Nino was having trouble keeping his girlfriend still as he held her middle.

"Babe chill.", Nino trying to calm her down.

"She's gone wild!". Lila cried as she tried to hide behind May for cover or as a human shield.

"Oh I'll show you wild!", she growled and continued to try and lung at Lila.

"Ayla what has gotten into you?", especially since she was literally trying to jump Lila and judging from the look in her eyes murder her.

"She attacked me for no reason. It was completely unprovoked.", Lila tried to defend, looking as though she might cry, " All this yelling. Especially with my ear injury."

"You are such a liar!", she spat at the other girl, "You don't have Tinnitus or anything like that!"

The students gave a collective gasp at the sudden statement.

"What are you talking about?"

"I'm talking about this!", she held up her phone, "I found an interesting article online.", sent to her by one of her avid followers on her Jagged Stone blog.

"Lila never saved Jagged Stone's cat. And she's never had a hearing problem.", adding that Jagged never even owned a cat in his life. Which meant there was no way she could have gotten such an injury because the incident never happened, "She made the whole story up."

"Is that true?"

"Hold on. You faked having a disability.", Kim looked bemused at the Italian girl.

"Wait, so your hearing is fine?", May looked at the Italian girl in question. Though she figured as much after what Kitsi had told her. It still didn't soften the blow of finding out someone faked having hearing problems. It made it worse.

"Of course not. I told you my ear was damaged.", she reminded, "I still have ringing in my right ear.", she claimed cupping her right ear for emphasizes.

"Right ear?", Alya raised her eyebrow, "You said your left ear was damaged.", she narrowed her eyes.

"Er, that's what I meant. My left ear.", she corrected herself quickly, "Sometimes I get them mixed up."

"How do you mix up having ear damage in one ear?", the students looked at each other in confusion.

"That is a complete and total lie.", Alya voiced, "Neither of your ears are damaged. You never saved Jagged Stones cat. He doesn't even like cats like that.", emphasizing the article where Jagged stated, in his own words, how he had a bad experience with a cat and refused to own one ever since, "That story was a complete fake!", again the students gasped.

"Is that true?"

"Well...I...of course it's not true!", she defended, "Obviously that's a fake article. I would never lie about something as saving a poor kitten.", she fawned innocently.

"This isn't about some made up kitten rescue.", well not the whole reason, "This is about the fact that every word that comes out of your mouth is a complete lie!"

Lila gasped, "How could you say that? I would never lie to you Alya. We're friends remember?", and friends wouldn't lie to each other.

"Oh, we are definitely not friends.", she hissed, "You lied to me. To everyone. You made up all those stories and used my blog to peddle your lies.", she leered at the exchange student.

"I can't believe you would say such horrible things to me.", she frowned sadly.

"Oh don't even try it. I looked into all your amazing stories. There all completely false.", after speaking with May and seeing all the comments on her blog she firmly believed that something wasn't right, "All those 'amazing' stories about Lila were nothing more then lies.", she declared, "Knowing Prince Ali, Jagged Stone writing a song about her, rescuing a cat, the Hollywood directors...all fake." she counted off all the stories that had been proven false.

"Even the story about Ladybug saving your life and you two being best friends was phony.", Alya said, obviously upset one of her biggest interviews was a complete fake, "As it turns out girl's never even met Ladybug.", let alone had her life saved by her or any of the heroes. Alya crossed her arms with an expression showing she wasn't amused.

"How could you say such horrible things.", she bemoaned.

"How could I? How could you.", she spat, "Do you know how much trouble I got in because of your stories? Every member of RVER dismissed that story about you hanging out backstage with them.", the members didn't even know her in the way she had been telling everyone.

"Your a complete liar."

"That is ridiculous. I've never lied.", Lila denied in offense, "You're just jealous and trying to tarnish my good name." she accused.

"Than explain how the song on the blog, that Rain supposedly made for you, was actually stolen?", she questioned ignoring the obvious insult.

"Stolen?"

"Apparently the song was a private song that Rain recorded while he was here in Paris.", she said.

"Y-Yes. He made it for me.", she said.

"No. He made it for his little sister.", she corrected back.

"Sister?", that was a surprise. Many people didn't even know Rain had a sibling, let alone a little sister. In fact, until today, people were surprised she was coming to school with them.

"Yeah, he wrote it just for her.", no one else was supposed to know about, "So tell me 'Lila', why did you claim he wrote that song that for you?"

"Well, because...his sister and I are old friends. That's how I meet Rain.", she claimed avoiding the actual question.

"Wait, I thought you meet Rain in Italy during one of his concerts.", Nathaniel spoke up.

"Yes. I did.", she confirmed, "I ran into his little sister and we hit it off so well she introduced her brother to me."

"But, when you first talked about how you met him and the band, you never once mentioned him having a little sister.", not even once.

"...Because we haven't spoken to each other in quite some time. She's always traveling, like me, so it's hard to stay in touch.", she explained.

"If that's true then how did you know she was coming to school with us?", if that was even true.

"Because Rain told me of course.", she replied.

"Did he also tell you that the song he supposedly made for you was private and apparently the only recording had been stolen from his hotel suite.", downloaded from the master copy that only he and his manager had access to.

"I don't know anything about that.", she denied.

"Then how did you get the song then?", she questioned, "Because now he and his manager think I stole it and are threatening to have the Ladyblog shutdown for piracy.", and that was probably the least of her worries.

"You tell me.", she spoke, "Your a reporter. Maybe you stole it so you would have something to put on your blog.", she accused causing the hall to fill with 'oohs' and the sounds of shock at the accusation against the blogger.

"Now hold up.", Nino spoke up, "My girl my be a lot of things. Yes she can get herself into situations and comes up with plans that are over the top and out there. And yes she can jump the gun a lot. But, she is not a thief!", he declared.

"Oh, Nino.", she looked at her boyfriend.

"Anything for you babe.", he smiled at his girlfriend. No one spoke ill of his girlfriend and got away with it, "Also it's pretty low calling Alya a thief. Your the one who was bragging about being all close to the band and this amazing song he made for you.", showing it to everyone in class and half the school.

"She's the one accusing me of theft and lying."

"If the shoe fits.", he countered, "Your just trying to turn this around and weasel your way out of telling the truth.", and taking responsibility.

"And you still didn't answer the question. How could you be friends of RVER if none of them know who you are and they completely deny all those stories you've been telling?", Alya questioned, "And where did you get a hold of that song? Because Rain didn't give it to you or make it for you for that matter.", so she couldn't use that excuse. May could hear the disdain in everyone's voice and even though she knew what Lila did was wrong, she wondered how this was going to play out and fearing she might not be in the right position standing between them.

"I don't have to tell you anything.", she said rather sternly.

"But, you will answer to me.", a voice spoke. All eyes turned to see Chloe who had walked into the crowd. Moving past the students until she into the heart. Sabrina right behind her.

"Chloe?", what was she doing here?"

"Yes, it is I.", she stated with a flip of her hair, "I'm sure you're all wondering where I've been."

"No, not really.", the students shrugged in indifference.

"Do you mind. We're in the middle of something here.", which would be a public interrogation and possible execution if Alya got free.

"Well tough. Because as the Queen Bee of this school and the Princess of Paris...", she began.

"Get the point.", Alix voiced.

"Ingrates.", she muttered, "As I was saying, I have come to reveal a shocking truth.", she stated, "Someone in this school is not who they appear to be. And by that, I mean a big liar."

"Okay, seriously what are you talking about Chloe?", Alya questioned. She had other things to worry about then another one of Chloe's tantrums.

"I am here to expose this 'someone' for the fraud they really are.", her eyes turned to the Italian student, "You 'Lila Rossi' are a fake!", she declared.

"Excuse me?", she leered, "How dare you call me a fake!?"

"Because unlike, it's true.", Chloe gave a dramatic laugh, "Obviously you tried latch onto me. And who wouldn't.", she commented, "You just wanted to boost yourself up by riding my coattails.", being the daughter of the mayor gave her a set popularity, even if it conflicted with her personality. Or what people thought it was.

"Why would I need to do something like that?", Lila challenged seemingly switching to a more confident personality.

"Because you'll say anything to make yourself look good.", Chloe shot back, "Like pretending to be all buddy, buddy, best friends with Ladybug."

"Did you honestly think anyone would believe that Ladybug or any hero would want to be friends with you?"

"Of course. We became close after saved my life.", it had been one of the many things that had gotten her so much attention when she transferred to school.

"Oh really? And just how did Ladybug save your life?", Chloe questioned, "You only transferred here and I don't remember hearing anything about Ladybug saving your life.", which would have been covered by the news or online. Civilians took pictures of the heroes and reported anytime they had saved someone one or stopped an akuma. But, no one had even seen or heard of the transfer student being saved or even there being any proof of it. Not a single picture, video, or talk of the incident until she came to school.

"So if you two are so 'close' as you constantly say then you'll have no problem proving it.", Chloe challenged.

"I don't have to prove anything to you.", she scoffed.

"Ha!", Chloe laughed, "That only proves you made it up about you two being best friends.", Chloe spat, "Can anyone even say they knew who you were until all these rumors started going arounds.", students talked among themselves. Many often wondered where the rumors started from. Other's just assuming they were true because so many people seemed to talking about the student it had to be true.

"That's ridiculous.", Lila retorted, "Why would I make up a story about Ladybug? We're friends.", she sounded offended, or at least tried to.

"And I shop thrift.", Chloe scoffed, "Your no friend of Ladybug's.", she folded her arms, "You obviously just made up all those stories and spread them around to make yourself sound like your 'oh so great'. Pathetic."

"More like desperate.", Sabrina said copying Chloe's stance.

"No one even knew who you were. But, somehow you know Ladybug and all these important people. Sound's pretty fishy to me."

"What would you know?", she leered.

"Besides knowing how to spot a poser.", more than people wanted to give her credit for, "People like you can and will say anything. While people like me can claim it and back it up.", being the mayor's daughter gave her perks most people couldn't dream of. And though Chloe was by definition a spoiled brat, to her credit, she could back up her words.

"You say you've done all these amazing things, but you've nothing to back it up with.", she offered nothing but her words. Given the fact that she was new, her slate was pretty much clean with all the students and staff. They had no reason not to believe her. And if someone asked any questions she always had an excuse or an explanation. With people who seemed to give her the benefit of the doubt.

"When you get down to it your all flash and now show.", offering nothing but a bunch of stories, "Even making bunch of empty promises to get people to like you."

"Like how she promised me an autograph poster of the band.", Sabrina mumbled to herself, "And I did all her homework for her." she fumed. Almost everyone had been told one thing or another by the transfer student and one by one were seeing that the girls golden life was nothing, glitter and smoke.

"Or promised me an exclusive interview for the Ladyblog.", which had blown up majorly. In Alya's face. Now her blog and her own reputation were toast.

"And she promised me she mention my music to producers and artist's like Rain.", Nino stated how he had given her a demo after she made it seem like she and the band were so close. At first he was excited to be mentioned to people like Steven Spielberg or Rain. Though now he felt betrayed, used, and guilty. He sold out his friends.

A number of their classmates voiced how Lila had promised one thing or another, including mentioning them to 'important figures' on their behalf. Even in the earlier days when the rumors were just pouring in, there was talk of name dropping and promises of that nature.

The way it played out was that Lila probably learned about the students or more simply what they liked. And if she could she made up a story linking herself to a famous person or event connected to that passion. For Nino it was music and movie making, Rose adored Prince Ali, Alya had her blog and the heroes. And Ladybug was a beloved symbol of the city, so being close friends with her was no doubt an amazing feet. Which had worked to impress them.

But,unlike the the earlier feets, there was no way to fully check the claims if someone made it, yet it was still possible to question it. As long as there was an explanation no one would think twice. Yet even the most well planned lie can be undone. For Lila it was the fact that there was proof. The first time it was the video that had done her in. She couldn't well prove Ladybug and her were friends without any visible proof to back it up. If something like that was proven false, then all other claims would be called into question until one by one they crumbled.

This time however seemed to be a different case. Plus now there was the fact that Rain, had basically denied knowing Lila on any level. He didn't even know her face. It didn't help she had been bragging about being close with the band and other rumors about the group. Including, as they had been finding out, rumors that Rain's little sister, was best friend with the Italian girl. And was coming to school with them.

"That is low Rossi.", Alya said in disgust. Not only for the lying. But, lying about having a serious condition, "There's also the matter of all those interviews I did with you. Like the one about how you said you and Ladybug were so close.", she twisted her fingers together to imitate what she did in those interviews, "Ladybug never saved your life."

"Yeah, Ms. Brags-a lot." Chloe stated, "Why don't you and your mouth go someplace else." she pointed towards the exit.

"What?", she seemed to question, probably thinking is was just Chloe running her mouth off to get attention, "Who do think you are trying to tell me what to do?" Lila challenged.

"How sad. You think someone like 'you' would know how to read the room," Chloe snapped back, "No one believes a word you say."

"What's that supposed to mean?", she challenged.

"It means you think you can just waltz in, spread a bunch of gossip about yourself, and suddenly think you're top of the food chain." she accused folding her arms.

"Yeah and it's annoying.", Sabrina stated striking the same haughty pose as Chloe.

"What's your problem?", she question, switching from crying to defensive in a flip.

As the argument went on more students stopped to watch Chloe and Lila stare each other down.

"Should we do something?", Nino whispered to Alya.

"I am.", and by that she meant taking out her camera and filming the confrontation. Thankfully her classmate had let her go. More interested in what was happening as Chloe was beginning to pick the girl apart.

"That's not what I meant.", he shook his head, "But, I am not getting in the middle of that.", especially when it was two girls fighting. He had enough trouble trying to keep Alya calm. He wasn't going to get between Chloe and her target.

"Obviously you're just jealous." she directed that at Chloe, "It's rather sad."

"Yeah right, mui, jealous of you!", she gave a sarcastic and haughty laugh, "Quit dreaming Rossi. You're nothing but a liar thinking you could use other people's names to make yourself look good.", Chloe stated with disgust in her voice as she pointed her manicured nail at the other girl. Though it seemed like the general argument between two people, it was only intensified because for the very rare occasions everyone was somewhat behind Chloe or rather they were all against Lila.

"You're just a wanna be. Though when I get done with you you're going to wish you never came into my city.", she stated.

"Are you threatening me?", Lila challenged.

"Oh I don't make threats.", Chloe sneered, "I make promises."

"You think I'm afraid of you? What going to call your 'Daddy-kins' to fight your battles for you?" she mocked, but Chloe looked un-phased by the comment.

"Like I waste my father's time with trash like you.", Chloe shoot back, "I'm going to enjoy picking you apart Rossi.", she smirked with a wicked glee.

"Take your best shot, I dare you." Lila challenged right back.

"Gladly.", she responded happily, "Everyone believes you're the daughter of Italian diplomats, whose traveled all over the world and met so many celebrities. Even being best friends with Paris's own heroes.", she recapped, "Here's the bottom line. You, Lila Rossi, are nothing more than a liar and a fraud.", she revealed causing a number of gasps to wring out through the classroom.

"Mou?", she said coyly, "I don't know what your talking about Bourgeois. I've never lied.", she dismissed, "Unlike someone, people like me."

"Your just trying to bully me.", she cried.

"WahWah! Cry me a river you phony.", Chloe scoffed placing her hands on her hips, "I know for a fact Jagged Stone has never written a song about you." the rocker stayed at her Daddies hotel often enough that she could walk up and ask him about the claim, "How is it no one can find this 'alleged' song about you Rossi?" she questioned.

"I've never heard it.", Sabrina voiced and many other people seemed to acknowledge they hadn't heard the song either.

"Well it's a private song." made just for her, "Jagged didn't want to put it out there because it was personal." to protect her identity from fans.

But Chloe wasn't buying it, "Let me guess it was after you saved his pet cat, which we already know doesn't exist."

"Then you said you flew on Prince Ali's private plane.", she picked at her nail's, "You obviously expect us to believe an actual prince let you fly on his private plane."

"It's true.", she reassured, "We met during a trip to the Achu Kingdom." she regaled how she had met the prince during one of her parents diplomatic trips, "We became really close friends." she said rather proudly.

"And you also know Hollywood directors like Steven Spielberg and actresses like Lady Iro?", another one of the main rumors that ran around the first day the girl had entered the school, "Obviously just more of your lies."

"What are you talking about? There all true." she defended again obviously growing frustrated with the questioning.

"Yeah right.", Chloe scoffed, "All those stories are complete trash.", she sounded like she wanted to gag, "You really expect us to believe you know all these amazing people and did all this amazing stuff?"

"And what makes you think it's not true?" she questioned, "It's not my fault I have such an interesting life."

"You mean interesting lie.", Sabrina quipped, "No one believes anything you say."

"Says you.", she scoffed, "Everything I've said is true.", she defended.

"Oh please.", Chloe pressed, "Like anyone worthwhile would want to deal with you. You just thought you could get a free ride to the top."

"And what do you know, miss diva?", Lila scoffed, "Plus people do like me.", she stated rather proudly. No one could deny she was well liked in the school because of her personality as well as her amazing life of travel and knowing so many famous people.

"Don't forget I'm the princess of Paris.", she stated proudly, "Everyone loves me.", she corrected, though she might be overreaching with people's actual opinions toward her, "If you think I'm going to let some lying wannabe walk around and saying whatever she wants. Your nothing but a liar." she accused pointing to Lila.

"How dare you." Lila scoffed in offense, "Your just jealous that I'm better liked than you."

"Don't try to change the subject.", Chloe dismissed, "This is about how you think you can just walk in here and act like you own the place."

"Excuse me?"

"You heard me." she folded her arms, "You think your something special when everyone knows your nothing but a phony thinking you could fake it to the top."

"You even tried to butter up to me.", she commented, "You just wanted to boost yourself up by riding my coattails.", being the daughter of the mayor gave her a set popularity, even if it conflicted with her personality, "Your nothing but a...

"Monster!", a voice spoke out. All the students turned to see Rose and Juleka heading towards them.

"Rose, what happened to you?", student's questioned seeing how Rose looked like she had been crying. Evident by the mascara staining her eyes.

"I went to go to the museum because Prince Ali was going to be there.", she wanted to see him again and give him a letter she had written just for him. Feeling bad she had gotten another student to send them.

"The perfume you claimed Prince Ali sent you didn't even come from him or Achu!", Rose hissed from her usual cheery voice. She was mad. Even her blue eyes, usually big and positive, had become pools of anger.

"Whatever was in it, Prince Ali was allergic too.", Juleka added trying to comfort her friend. Explaining that as soon as they got close to the prince, he began to sneeze and cough from the smell of the perfume. And when it was found that Rose was the source, the royal family bodyguards and museum security had went on the offensive.

"I was detained by security.", she cried in embarrassment at what had happened. And Prince Ali saw it too. They must have thought she had been akumatized again, "I'll never be able to face him again."

"But, how did you get out of lock-up?"

"Kitsi's older brother talked to the museum.", they explained how the older teen had spoken to the head of security and got Rose and her friends free. Explaining that it was Rose's perfume, that had broken in her bag, that was causing the smell. Because, as it turned out, the perfume was just some run of the mill, store bought perfume. While also apologizing for the misunderstanding.

"There's also the matter that the 'pass' you gave me for the event wasn't even yours.", the students gasped.

"It wasn't?"

"No.", before the whole perfume incident, she had shown the pass to the security monitoring the event. When they checked it against the list of those in attendance, guests and those specially invited, the code on the pass didn't match the person who it belonged to, "Lila wasn't even on the guest list.", so there was no way she would have a pass because no one even knew who she was.

"Then who did it belong to?"

"As it turned out it belonged to Kitsi's brother.", since Hitoshi was a professional photographer he was given a special press badge to get into the event and take photos of the royal family and the restoration process.

Again the students began to talk among themselves. Many feeling pity for what happened to Rose. Who was seen as one of the sweetest girls in school. Others passing glaces to Lila who seemed to have become silent at Roses claims against her.

"Well Rossi, want to explain this?", Chloe spoke, "I thought you and Prince Ali were such good friends. Especially with all those letters you've been sending on Rose's behalf and how he invites you to his palace.", because of her parents diplomatic status and Lila's claim of friendship. Sending a letter to someone like Prince Ali seemed possible.

"Well...it must have been a mix up.", she tried to excuse, "I mean, how is it my fault that Rose overused the perfume I selflessly gave her?"

"Are you kidding?", Rose glared at the girl. Juleka holding onto her before she did something drastic. Though someone else might beat her to the punch.

"You've got some explaining to do.", Mylene leered at the girl, "The make-up you swore you picked out from a genuine and exclusive boutique.", Ivan spoke, "It made Mylene's skin break out.", he remembered her showing him the marks around her face and neck and how she was so embarrassed.

"Well? Want to explain all this?", Chloe challenged.

"How is her skin breaking out my fault.", she defended

"You said you picked it out yourself.", after from her travels, "It was just regular makeup.", and common at best.

"Well obviously that was a lie.", adding to the list, "She probably just bought some random junk and pawned it off as expensive gifts.", probably just picking what ever looked fancy and passing them off as exotic items only she could get her hands on.

"But, Mylene, your face looks fine.", actually it looked like she was glowing.

"I know. Kitsi's brother was able to cover everything up.", she explained how her brother, who was also a professional make-up artist, was able to tone and contour her image back. Concealing what the makeup had done and recommending some products to help with any damage left over.

"Well then there's no problem.", Lila said as if she had been cleared, "In fact, I think you look better than you did before.", she said as if it was a compliment.

"Excuse me?", Mylene scoffed, "Your cheap makeup broke my skin out.", and people saw her like that, "You should be ashamed of yourself."

"I-I was giving you a compliment.", she tried to defend, "The touch up makes your features pop a lot better."

"Mylene doesn't need makeup to make herself pop or look pretty.", Ivan spoke, "She's perfect just the way she is.", Mylene smiled up at her boyfriend, "What she doesn't need is someone like you trying to use her to make a point.", he leered at the girl. Like a mad bull ready to charge.

"Scusi?" Lila gasped, "How could you say such a thing? I was only trying to be nice to you. Giving you gifts out of the goodness of my heart. And now your all being so cruel.", she said sadly.

"Oh cut the crocodile tears you faker.", Chloe scoffed, "I say it makes you look pathetic, but that ship has sailed.", true to her words, not many people, or anyone for that matter, seemed to buy her act.

"All those claims you've made are nothing but a complete croc.", she stated, "And before you try and weasel your way out with some lame excuse or more fake tears. Know there's a little video that proves that you are nothing but a filthy liar.", the statement seemed to surprise Lila, knocking some of the wind out of her for a moment. It was easy to deny something when only a number of people were accusing you. But to have video proof was damning. Especially if the video was of the heroes admitting the rumors and statements were completely false.

"I have video taken from the contest at Daddy's hotel. Remember that?", she pointed to Lila and the fact that she had been accused of stealing someone else's work and entering it as her own by none other than the heroes themselves.

"And unlike you this video is one hundred percent true.", she waived her phone, "As you can see she is not fan or friend of anyone famous." Chloe stated, "She just made that all up just to fool everyone! Not only is she a liar, but a thief as well!" she spat.

"How dare you!" Lila practically screamed.

"Because I can.", Chloe stated giving a flip of her hair, "There's nothing special about you besides the fact you'll say anything to get people to like you. Then you'll play victim to get people to feel sorry for you when you can't lie your way out of being caught. But as we just heard, even the heroes are on to your lame lies."

"I told you I've never lied!"

"Of course you lie. All you do is lie. It's probably the only way you can make people like you.", she accused, "Besides a bunch of overblown stories, what proof have you that any of what you say is true?", and that's what kept the line between truth and fiction. Proof. It could build up as much as tear down and Lila's lies were beginning to crumble. She had spent a greater part of her time telling story after story, drawing as much attention as she could to herself. Whatever was the main topic, Lila was there to add her two cents in. Yet for all the stories she gave, many were so awed by the incredibleness of it they overlooked actual evidence that what she was saying was true. She offered no photographs, videos, nothing concrete. Only her word that it happened. But with mounting questions it was only a matter of time before that amazement would turn into doubt when things didn't match up.

"So Madame Show-off can you prove anything you've told us?", Chloe questioned, "Can you prove you've meet Prince Ali or had a song dedicated to you by Jagged Stone after saving his cat? Or that you know all the biggest directors and actors in Hollywood? Or that any of the heroes saved your life and that your close friends with any of them?", she didn't let up, hammering the questions down, "I want to see proof!", she demanded as the ball basically slammed into Lila's court. Many watched the girl wondering what she would say to defend herself and the stories she proudly told to anyone who would hear. In the few minutes since the argument started, more and more students had filled the hallway. Drawn into the drama that was unfolding.

"It only shows you'll say anything to be popular. You latch yourself onto other people and spread gossip about yourself. Pathetic.", she sneered. The lies were crumbling, the voices were closing in. Doubtful looks were casted on the girl. Judging eyes that threatened to destroy her with their sharp glances and whispers around her.

"So everything was a lie?"

"Yeah she totally made it up."

"What a fake."

"Such a phony."

"A lair!"

"You lied about everything!", Chloe continuously jabbed, "Tell the truth!" she demanded and soon other students were joining in.

"Yeah tell the truth!"

"The truth!"

"The truth! The truth! The truth!" student's chanted.

"They're going to tear her apart.", Perci commented having watched the scene unfold from on top of the stairs.

"I know and we got front row.", Donny said with a less worried tone, "This might be better than an akuma."

"We have to stop them.", Perci suddenly said.

"Oh come on, can't we watch a little bit longer?", maybe let her get ruffed up a bit. Let Ceasire get some swings in, "It's just getting good.", he continued to record, "Now this is what I call drama.", and he was going to get it one tape.

"Forget your drama. I'm worried about May.", his girlfriend was caught in the middle of all this. She could get hurt, "We have to help her."

"Right.", almost forgot about that.

Down below the students were whipped up. Calling for Lila to tell the truth and confess to her crimes. Angry voices overlapping as more and more people

"I mean I don't want to get in the middle of anything."

"What are you going on about?"

"I'm not sticking up for you.", she said firmly, "Honestly your one of the worst people I've ever met. I may not know you personally, but from what I've seen today alone you have no decency for anyone but yourself.", she stated.

"My name is May Dusia. I came to get something from the school.", and was now dragged into this mess.

"What do you know?"

"I know you're a terrible person. You lie to people to make yourself popular and when someone doesn't believe you you threaten them and try to make them look bad."

"Just like you did to Kitsi and that girl in the bathroom."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Besides the fact you were spreading horrible rumors about Kitsi and trying to villainize her.", out of petty spite, "You also threatened another student and left her crying in the bathroom after you purposely stole the cake she had been making.", she could still remember those sounds of sadness and crying from that poor girl.

"Is that true?"

"No it isn't."

"Shut up.", Alya hissed, "What did she do?"

"Well...I didn't want to mention it, but I overheard her in the bathroom. Threatening another student. Marinette."

"Wait, you threatened Marinette?"

"I heard the whole thing.", explaining how she had went to the bathroom to cool her head after an incident in the home economics room. She was in the stall when the confrontation happened. After which she tried to check on Marinette, "She said if Marinette ever tried to go against her or wouldn't be her friend and give her what she wanted, she would ruin her life. Turn all of you against her and make it so she would be alone and friendless.", just like how she did to Kitsi.

The class gasped in shock and dismay.

"That's horrible."

"Just when I think you can't go lower.", Alya eyes were burning at this point.

"I wanted to say something. But, I was afraid no one would believe me.", she said sadly. After the stories Kitsi told her, she felt like she couldn't do anything.

"So that's it. You make everyone trust you. Lure them in with fake smiles and fake personality and made up stories to make people like you. And when you don't get your way or someone goes against you. You threaten them.", she spat, "And I...I stood up for you. I vouched for you.", no matter what anyone said she took her side.

Against the commentators on her blog.

Against her own senses.

Against Kitsi.

Against Marinette.

"Oh my god.", she gasped, "I...I said all those things. I took your word over my best friend.", against Marinette. Against the first person she was friends when moved to school. Who was always there for her and everyone else. But, so easily, she just turned her back on her.

"Wait, wait, this a big misunderstanding. I would never threaten anyone.", but it didn't look like anyone was going to believe her, "Remember we're all friends. You know me.", they were friends.

Past tense.

"Yeah we know you alright.", Nino leered.

"Your a heartless monster.", Alya spat.

"Selfish brat."

"Deceitful."

"Manipulative witch."

"A liar."

"A fraud."

"A thief."

"Traitor!"

"And your clothing choices are criminal alone.", Chloe scoffed, "I knew there was something rotten about you.", and coming from Chloe that was something to be said.

"What is going on out here?", Principal Damocles spoke bringing all their attention to the principal.

"What are you students out of class?", Ms. Bustier asked.

"Thank goodness you're here. They all formed an angry mob and tried to harm me.", Lila cried to the headmaster and the teacher.

"You little snake.", Alix hissed.

"What is going on out here?"

"Don't listen to a single word she says."

"She's lying."

"Ms. Bustier she lied about everything. She doesn't have Tinnitus. She made up the story just so she could sit in the front of class.", Alya said.

"She also faked having a sprained wrist to get out of gym class.", Kim said.

"And arthritis.", Max added.

"She turned Mylene's skin green."

"And got Rose detained by security."

"She's been lying to everyone.", the students voiced their complaints about the other students blatant lies.

"Everyone calm down, calm down.", Ms. Bustier said trying to get her students in order, "All this yelling won't help anyone."

"Now will someone, one at a time, explain what is happening.", the headmaster questioned.

"It's all her fault!", Chloe pointed an accusing finger at the Lila still holding next to Bustier.

"Chloe's right.", which was weird to say, "She's been lying and making up stories."

"What are you talking about?"

"All those stories she said were complete lies.", most of which had gotten a number of them in trouble.

"She got me detained by security after giving me a stolen pass."

"She turned Mylene's skin green with fake make-up."

"She also broke into my father's hotel and stole private property from a client.", Chloe accused, "But, not before she tried to pawn cheap jewelry on me after stealing my specially made hair-clips."

"She also made up having a hearing disability so she could sit in the front row and get special treatment from everyone.", Alya told them how the story about how she got an ear injury wasn't even true and she faked an injury, "She also lied about a new student coming to the school.", just to throw a party and boost her reputation in the school.

"Ms. Rossi is this true?", she turned to the young still still hiding behind the headmaster.

"Don't ask her she'll just make up some fake story and try to weasel her way out of it.", Chloe snapped.

"Or cry like a baby.", Sabrina added.

"Well, Lila, is it true? Did you purposely fake an injury just to receive special treatment?", Ms. Bustier was a fair teacher. She wanted to get all sides of the story before making judgement. But, she wouldn't tolerate those who purposely tried to deceive others for selfish reasons.

"I...this isn't fair.", she voiced, "I'm being unfairly persecuted. They all ganged up on me and started accusing me of something so heinous.", she cried.

"That wasn't what I asked you.", Caline said, seemingly unmoved by the girls tears, "Do you or do you not have a hearing problem?", she repeated her question.

"You heard your teacher young lady, now answer the question.", the headmaster added, "You also have to explain this new student business."

"Well I...I...it's...", she stammered.

"What is going on here?", another voice came.

"Adrien's dad?", the students were shocked to see Adrien's father, of all people, at the school. On a tablet held by his assistant Natalie.

"Mr. Agreste what are you doing here?", the headmaster asked.

"Mr. Agreste was here to speak to the headmaster.", Natalie spoke.

"My apologies to you both, we were just trying to clear up a situation with some of our students.", he motioned to the situation at hand.

"I don't care what you have to do. I've been waiting long enough and I'm a very busy person.", he said bluntly, "I came here to retrieve my son."

"Retrieve him?", many students looked worried and confused. Was something wrong with Adrien?

"Yes. It has come to my decision there has been a bit of scandal surrounding the school.", he said, "As such, I believe Adrien would be better suited back at home.", being home-schooled.

"Your taking Adrien out of school?", again.

"But du...I mean Mr. Agreste.", Nino began, "Adrien loves it here. And we care about him."

"Of course you do.", he dismissed, "But, if has come to my attention that number of his peers have been setting bad examples for him.", for which he could list, "Examples I don't want him falling into. Which is why he will no longer be attending your school.", much to the sadness and disbelief of his classmates.

But, then his eyes fell on Lila of all people. His gaze narrowing.

"I think I know you.", he said.

"No, I'm...", she tried to deny his claims.

"Oh you know, she's one of your models who's going to be wearing your clothes for the spring line.", Chloe chirped in.

"Is this a joke?"

"You tell us. She's been bragging about how you wanted her to wear your clothes for the Spring collection.", Chloe listed.

"I don't know what you've been hearing, but I don't let anyone model for my brand.", the designer stated, And as for you, young lady, I don't appreciate you using my name or my companies. I don't know who you are, but I don't care for jokes."

"There was reports from some of the workers from some of Adrien's last shoots.", Natalie began, "It seems that there were some complaints about about a young lady of Ms. Rossi's description. She claimed to be a friend of Adrien's.", though it was never fully confirmed or not since she didn't seem like much of a threat and Adrien seemed familiar with her. Which would also explain how she got in the pictures with him.

"I see.", the designer gave the girl a rather cold glare, "So that's how it is. You were trying to use my son and his name.", he accused, "How dare you use my son's friendship for your own selfishness."

"I...I would never do something like that.", she tried to defend. But unlike her peers, who were young teens like herself, Gabriel wasn't a fool. He wasn't one to turn over for sympathy and emotion. He was cold as he was calculating. Things that helped him build and maintain a fashion empire. And from his years of experience he could spot things that aren't genuine. Whether it be clothing or people.

"But, you did.", he could see it written all over her face, "It's clear you knowingly took advantage of my son's friendly nature in order to give yourself a boost. Including using your relationship as classmates to waltz onto private shoots.", for which they had accounts from various people who saw the girl and even heard her talk of her relationship with Adrien, "Then you somehow thought you could make up stories about being a model.", and thought he would never hear about it, "You're either very bold or very stupid Ms. Rossi."

"I think the latter, sir.", Natalie added in.

"Listen very closely, because I will only say this once.", he began, "Under no circumstances will I allow anyone, you or otherwise, to even think they can take advantage of myself, may company, and especially my son.", he didn't who they were or who they think they were. He wouldn't allow anyone to besmirch the name and brand he had created. Nor would he allow anyone to use his son for any means.

"Ha! I knew it!", Chloe tainted, "That probably isn't even a Gabriel Agreste original."

"Those are part of Mr. Agreste's Spring Line.", Natalie confirmed.

"So it seems not only are you a liar, but a thief as well.", he accused, "Those clothes were specially made for a client's daughter. Not for you play pretend."

"You will return those clothes immediately."

"That doesn't sound very nice?", a voice spoke. All eyes turned to see a figure, a girl, standing on the guard rails of the school.

"What is that?"

"Who is that?"

"I am Confectionette!", she revealed with a sweet tone, "The sweetest foe you'll ever hope to see.", she said with a sweet tone.

"It's an akuma!"

"What?", the designer looked in disbelief, "Impossible.", but there she was an akuma standing on the beams of the upstairs. But, it couldn't be.

"Now don't be so bitter. Confectionette is here to give you all the sweets you most richly deserve.", she smiled.

The students and staff starred up as the akuma looked down on them with those pink and blue eyes.

"Chloe what did you do?"

"Oh sure, blame me whenever an akuma pops up.", she snorted in offense, "I've been digging up dirt on the super lair.", she didn't have time to cross anyone.

"Force of habit.", it happened so often it was only natural to suspect the heiress of causing another akuma.

"Now, now.", the akuma, Confectionette, clapped her hands to together, "It isn't nice to accuse someone without evidence. Right?", she cocked her head.

'That bracelet...', it looked so familiar.

'It's a friendship bracelet.', she smiled a bit, 'I...was making it for someone special.'

"A macaroon?", May whispered, "A macaroon!", she voiced louder surprising the others around her.

"What's with you?", Chloe questioned.

"I know that bracelet.", May said, "It's part of the friendship bracelet she was making for...", she gulped, "Marinette."

Everyone held their breaths.

"Marinette?"

"It's the part of the friendship bracelets Kitsi was making for everyone."

"That's Marinette?", it couldn't be. Marinette was too kind and positive to become an akuma.

"Oh, no need to be afraid.", she cooed, "Everyone wants sweets. So I'll give them all the sweets they want!"

"She's been infected by Hawkmoth."

'What would Kitsi do?', she thought.

If Kitsi were here she would try reason with the akuma and then fight. May definitely couldn't even think of beating an akuma. So talking it was.

"Um...C-Confectionette?", she spoke getting the akuma's attention, "I know you think getting revenge against the people that hurt you will make you feel better. It won't.", she's been there, though didn't remember most of it, "Please think about what your doing.", she pleaded.

"And who are you? A little sugar cookie?"

"I'm...", she took a deep breathe, "I'm May Ducia. And I prefer gingerbread actually.", she added the last part, "And while I understand you're upset, maybe not why, but you are hurting.", evident by her current appearance, "But, I've been where you are.", having been akumatized herself.

"Oh May, such a sweet soul.", she said, "I have no ill will for you.", using her wands she summoned a box that landed in May's hands, "A box of cookies!"

"Uh, thank you.", she said holding the box of cookies. Though she wasn't sure if she should eat them.

"Please Marinette."

"I am no longer Marinette.", a puppet to her own emotions, "I am Confectionette.", reaching behind her back she removed a long, wooden spoon, "I hope you all are hungry. I've made all your favorites!"

Using her spoon like a wand, twirling it, a deep pink glow began to come from the instrument. And with a flick she blasted down into the school yard. The magic spanned out. Turning the school into the a sugary cookie house made of baked goods.

"It's...biscotti?"

"Tasty too.", Don added as he broke a piece of the railing off, "She turned floor into ladyfingers."

"Now for all of you.", she pointed her wand at her classmate, "I'm afraid bad children don't get sweets!"

"Marinette please stop this.", her classmate's begged Marinette to snap out of her senses.

"We know that you were right about 'Lila'."

"Yeah she's the one you want.", Chloe pointed to the Italian girl, "If you want to turn her into a cookie or whatever. We won't stop you.", she added.

"I shouldn't have trusted her over you.", Alya admitted, "I shouldn't have said what I said. Your my best friend."

"It seems you all have had a change of heart.", which seemed to make the akuma happy, "Though you still sunk my heart like a souffle and tossed me away like hard cookies when I wasn't soft like you wanted. So now, I'm going to give you all your just desserts!", she declared, "Something sweet before your demise.", using her wand she summoned a number of cookie boxes. From the boxes little gingerbread people climbed out.

"Now my little ginger-henchmen bring them to me!", she ordered. The cookie people heard the order and attacked. Even with their small stature they swarmed the students and others in the school. Bringing them down and holding them there. Before tying them down with rope like candy that coiled around them from head to toe.


At the Agreste Mansion...

"Natalie? Natalie!", he had repeatedly called for his assistant. But, to his dismay, the communication had been lost, "This doesn't make any sense.", how could there be a akuma at the school. It had to be some kind of trick.

Confectionette.

"I must look into this immediately.", he moved from his station of his desk.

"Thinking of leaving.", a voice said.

"Who are you? Answer me.", he demanded looking around.

Just then a figure came from the ceiling and landing on the designers desk.

"Who are you?", and where did he come from? How did he get in the house.

"I am Atrellis.", he introduced himself, "And like I said your not going anywhere Gabriel Agreste."

"What? No, it can't be.", but could it, "I don't know who you are, but no one tells me what to do."

"You were going to lock me away. We'll I'm the one who's going to lock you away!", his his powers the designer found himself surrounded by a lattice cage.

"No!", he had been captured, "Let me out of here this instant.", he demanded as he pushed on the cage bars.

"You don't have any power over me.", now he was the one with the power, "Now will see how you and everyone else likes being locked away in the cage.", with no power to escape.

"What gives you the right to do this to me?"

"The same right you thought you had to take me away from my friends and lock me in a cage.", he replied back, "Tell me, are you comfortable, father?"

"Can't be...Adrien?", no it couldn't be. Not Adrien. Not his son.

"It's Atrellis now.", he declared, "And soon all of Paris will know what it is like to be locked away without a choice.", and now that he had his father. It was Paris's turn.


To Be Continued...


Next Time;...The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow