The Rain &the Sun
NOTE: Can't wait for season 4. Nearly died in season 3. Especially Cat Blanc and finale. Those definitely killed. And every time Lila presents herself I wish she would just die lol. Terrible but true. Anyway, this plot came to me. I have this story and already know there will be a sequel. I'm not up to date on all season 4 rumors, hope I don't contradict things. Let me know if you guys know any. I'll either add them into my story or leave them out. Also, learning about the kwamis has been the most confusing, particularly their gender. Since some are different depending on the country, I'm just gonna decide some we don't know about yet. Another thing, their age confuses me. I've seen sites say they've been 13, 14, and now 15… which makes zero since. They haven't been heroes for a year. For the sake of sanity, all the students are 15. Anyway, I don't own Miraculous Ladybug. If I did, Ladybug and Cat Noir would have already revealed their identities AND remember. Enjoy!The Rain & the Sun
Chapter One: Post Miracle Queen Chaos
The place is eerily familiar. Building and monuments are destroyed, the whole place nearly buried in water. Ladybug's heartbeat quickens. It couldn't be. Not again. Anything but that. Proving her fears, a white figure appears. Everything is a painfully glowing white except his eyes. Which are a soulless blue. Ladybug takes half a step back.
"Milady! Cat Blanc missed you! I thought you would never come back," Cat Noir smiles.
It isn't right for him to smile. Not when he's like this. Ladybug takes a deep breath but it doesn't help. Her breathing becomes heavier until she's hyperventilating.
"Cat, why? What's going on? Why are Cat Blanc again?"
"Don't you remember? You hurt this poor kitty. Between school and being guardian, you forgot me."
"I would never forgot you Cat. You mean everything to me."
Cat Blanc steps closer. Ladybug matches his steps back until she's cornered on a ledge.
"I didn't you ever would. But you did, Marinette."
"Y-You know?"
Just like last time. She didn't tell anyone though. What happened?
"I didn't forget. And trust me, you won't forget Cat Blanc," Cat promises menacingly.
He raises his hand.
"Cataclysm!"
Marinette bolts up in her bed. Her heart is racing. She feels relieved to see she's just in her bedroom. It was just a dream. Another nightmare. After taking some deep breaths, she reaches for her diary on the bedside table. Opening the first page, a letter falls out. She reads it.
"Experiencing loss is a part of life; some people lose their first love. Some lose the harmony in their relationship. Some people lose hope. Others lose patience. While others lose their soul. And some have nothing to lose. Experiencing loss is a part of life. But good things come too. Expect the unexpected, and embrace it. As we grow old, we realize life doesn't always give us all the gifts we hoped it would. I would have loved to tell you all this in person, Marinette, but if you're reading this, it means I've already lost my memory. But you mustn't be scared. And you mustn't be sad. As I was telling you in the beginning of this letter, experiencing loss is a part of life, but it doesn't define it. Because what really matters isn't whether you win or lose, it's the ability to accept changes in ourselves. It's accepting that even if life doesn't always give us the gifts we were hoping for, the real gift is life itself. I know your life has changed a lot since I gave you the ladybug miraculous, and even more now that you're the guardian. You may feel lost and overwhelmed but remember you aren't alone. I know you have insecurities and question why I gave you the miraculous. Truth is, you're the best miraculous holder I ever met. Even with the mistakes you have and will make. So never give up because I believe in you. I hope I got to at least tell you that much in person. And thank you for everything, Master Fu."
Marinette sets the letter down next to her with a sigh. She leans her head back against her upright pillow and tries not to cry. How could he say those things? This is all her fault. The noise in the background doesn't break her thoughts. Tikki floats up to her chosen and lands on her raised knee.
"Marinette?" Tikki tries to get her attention.
"Yeah?" Marinette sounds miles away.
"You okay?" Tikki asks.
"I will be. Some days are harder," Marinette admits.
"Give it time. It's only been two weeks. You're doing fine," Tikki encourages and gestures to the room.
All the kwamis are flying around and playing games. Though Sass, Wayzz, and Longg seem to be quietly observing the others. Marinette smiles slightly.
"It's so much better now that they've learned not to destroy my stuff and be somewhat quiet as not to alert my parents," Marinette laughs.
"It's been a while since some have been out," Tikki defends. "They're excited to be out, even if it's just to see your bedroom."
Marinette checks to make sure all the curtains are closed. She doesn't need anyone looking in here and seeing multiple flying creatures.
"I'm glad, as long as they're careful," Marinette states.
"And you made us a great place to sleep!" Tikki commends.
Marinette glances at the nearly five-foot, simple dollhouse in the corner of her room. Some kwamis phased through it to come out and play.
"That was nothing. It's been in storage since I actually played with it. Though it was hard to explain to my parents why I suddenly wanted it up here," Marinette giggles.
Tikki joins in the laughter.
"But you were the one that made the modifications for us to have beds and be comfy. Plus it's also a good place to hide the miraculous box," Tikki points out.
"Yeah well, it's the least I can do. It's fun having you all here even if that means…" Marinette starts becoming somber.
Tikki flies up and places her hand on Marinette's forehead.
"You have to stop blaming yourself for what happened with Master Fu. You heard him. We both agree that you're the best miraculous holder that's ever been. Start believing in yourself," Tikki encourages.
Marinette smiles.
"Thanks," Marinette accepts.
Though, Tikki isn't sure Marinette really feels that way yet. She's stubborn. Marinette climbs off her bed and onto the main floor. All the kwamis fly around her. She giggles.
"Do you guys need more food?" Marinette asks.
"Yes!" they all beam.
"Please get plenty of those honey cookies," Pollen requests politely.
"And carrots!" Fluff adds.
Marinette giggles as most of the kwamis give their input. A few minutes later, Marinette comes back up with a tray with carrots, bananas, boiled eggs, cheese, and lots of different cookies. The kwamis cheer and go to fill their stomachs. Marinette sits at her desk chair and watches with amusement. Tikki sits on the desk eating a macaroon.
"You'd think they've never eaten before," Tikki observes.
"I bring them the same thing every time," Marinette chuckles.
By now, all the kwamis are sitting somewhere in the room with a food item in their hands. They talk and laugh. Marinette rubs her eye feeling suddenly tired. Maybe not so suddenly, she has been through a lot these last couple weeks.
"Maybe you should get some sleep," Tikki suggests.
"I'd love to but there's something I need to do today. I've put it off long enough," Marinette declines.
"What?" Tikki questions.
"I need to talk to Luka," Marinette sighs.
"About his confession?" Tikki clarifies.
"Yeah. I should go now before I get too nervous and bail," Marinette continues.
"Just let me grab another cookie," Tikki states.
With the macaroon gone, Tikki zips over to the plate to take another cookie for the trip. Marinette goes over to the dollhouse and opens a hidden compartment in the roof. Inside is the miraculous box. She takes out the glasses and puts them in her purse.
"Come on Kalkki, you're coming with me," Marinette announces.
Kalkki smiles and zips over.
"It would be my pleasure," Kalkki thanks.
Both Kalkki and Tikki phase into Marinette's purse.
"You're in charge Wayzz, everyone please careful not to get caught. Remember to hide if someone comes up," Marinette reminds.
"Don't worry we know the rules," Wayzz ensures.
"Aw, why is Wayzz always in charge?" Roaar complains folding her arms.
Marinette smiles and shakes her head. Leaving the room, she makes sure to shut her trapdoor. Luckily her parents stay in the bakery all day and hardly come up to the apartment. Her mom is upfront with her dad in the kitchen when she comes down.
"I'm going out for a bit," Marinette announces.
"Alright dear, have fun!" Sabine smiles.
Marinette hugs her mother goodbye.
"See you later honey!" Tom waves from the kitchen.
Marinette stops at the door to wave to him. Marinette runs down the street to the subway station. Kalkki and Tikki sit in her purse. Tikki is happily munching on her cookie while Kalkki sulks.
"I don't see why I can't look around," Kalkki grumbles.
"You'll get Marinette caught. There are too many people right now," Tikki replies.
Kalkki sighs.
"Well it's no fun being jostled in this bag," Kalkki argues.
"You'll get used to it," Tikki assures.
Marinette hops on the right train and luckily doesn't have to go far. Once at the stop, she gets off and up the stairs. She walks a block to the Seine where the Liberty is docked. Once at the gangplank, Marinette stops to take a deep breath. Tikki and Kalkki poke their heads out.
"You can do it Marinette!" Tikki cheers.
"You got this," Kalkki adds.
"Thanks you two," Marinette smiles appreciatively.
They both go back into the purse.
"Why are we here again?" Kalkki asks.
"She's talking to Luka," Tikki responds.
"Is that the boy she likes?"
"No, she likes Adrien."
"Isn't he…"
"Yes. But she doesn't know that. Their identities are secret."
"And he also likes her?"
"As Ladybug."
Kalkki processes all of that confusion.
"Humans are weird," Kalkki determines.
Tikki chuckles.
"Especially these two," Tikki says.
Marinette looks around the deck and sighs in relief when she sees Luka sitting in a chair tuning his guitar. He hears Marinette approach.
"Hey Marinette, what brings you here?" Luka greets.
"I figured two weeks was long enough to think," Marinette answers, sitting in a chair next to him.
"Oh," Luka's smile waivers.
By the silence that follows, Luka can figure out what she's decided.
"I'm sorry Luka," Marinette apologizes.
"You don't have to apologize Marinette," Luka assures.
"No I do. You're amazing Luka, really. All the things you've said to me, are the sweetest words I've heard. And I wish I could like you the same way, but…" Marinette can't finish.
"You still love Adrien," Luka figures.
"It's not that. He's with Kagami… or isn't. I don't know. But either way, I know Adrien doesn't feel the same. I'll always be just a friend. I'm learning to accept that. I just need time," Marinette explains and turns to look at Luka. "That's why I can't be with you. I need to get over Adrien. You deserve someone who can love you with everything they can. That's just not me."
Luka slowly nods and lowers his head. Marinette bites her lip thinking she's just crushed someone's heart, the last thing she wants to do to someone she cares about. However, Luka smiles a little when he lifts his head.
"I get it Marinette. Thanks for considering and maybe one day you'll be ready," Luka hopes.
"I hope so. You really are a great guy Luka," Marinette returns the smile.
She briefly kisses his cheek before standing.
"I'll see you around," Luka says.
"See you later," Marinette returns.
As she's leaving the Liberty, Juleka and Rose are about to go below deck. Rose's laughter grabs her attention. The three stop and stare at each other. Marinette is about to say something when the two continue their way down the stairs. Marinette groans and leaves.
"That wasn't so bad," Tikki refers to the conversation with Luka. "He seemed to take it well."
"I don't understand humans. Why don't you go with out with him?" Kalkki voices.
"I can't when my feelings for Adrien are still there. Besides, with everything else, the last thing I need is a boyfriend to complicate things," Marinette replies.
"What about Cat Noir?" Kalkki inquires.
"He's in love with Ladybug," Marinette addresses.
"You are Ladybug," Kalkki deadpans.
"It's… complicated," Marinette lamely reasons.
Kalkki turns to Tikki.
"I haven't see such a messy web of love since the last time we had a holder at the same time," Kalkki reminisces quietly.
Tikki giggles.
"That was pretty complicated," Tikki agrees.
Marinette sneaks into an alleyway.
"We're transforming?" Tikki questions zipping out of the purse.
Kalkki follows.
"Yeah, Ladybug needs to talk to Chloe. No one has seen her since the Miracle Queen incident," Marinette states.
"You sure that's a good idea? She's not a big fan of yours right now," Tikki wonders.
"I know but I want to check up on her. I haven't been the best with her. I have to stop avoiding her because of my personal life. Besides, both her and Hawk Moth have been quiet for two weeks. I don't like it," Marinette finishes.
Tikki nods. Marinette grab's Kalkki's miraculous and sets it on a box.
"Tikki, spots on!"
After her transformation, Ladybug grabs the glasses.
"I'll see you in a bit," Ladybug says.
Once the glasses are placed in her yo-yo, Kalkki is sucked inside. Using her yo-yo, she takes off towards the Le Grand Paris.
Meanwhile, Adrien is sitting in his room on his computer. He's scrolling through Ladybug posts with an unreadable expression on his face. Plagg is nearby eating cheese. He notices Adrien's mood. He swallows the last piece of cheese.
"Stalking your lady?" Plagg somewhat teases. "Aren't you dating Kagami?"
Adrien sighs.
"It's complicated. I don't know what to do," Adrien answers. "And not officially. After the Miracle Queen mess, I haven't really spent time with her."
"Well maybe you should talk to her. Leading her on isn't very gentlemanly," Plagg suggests.
"And since when have you ever been concerned with me being a gentleman?" Adrien questions.
Plagg shrugs.
"I have my moments," Plagg reasons.
Adrien looks at his phone, noticing the time, and sends her a text.
"I'll see if we can meet. She should be leaving a lesson," Adrien determines.
"If we're going out, I'll need more cheese," Plagg reminds as if Adrien wasn't aware of Plagg's obsession with cheese.
Adrien's phone buzzes.
"Looks like you'll be eating your cheese… later. Plagg, claws out!"
After he transforms, Adrien makes his way to the park where Kagami just finished a lesson. He transforms back into Adrien. Kagami is waiting on a park bench, patiently waiting.
"Kagami," Adrien greets as he sits down next to her.
"Adrien, where's your bodyguard?" Kagami returns.
"I uh, snuck out," Adrien confesses.
"I see. What is it that you needed to see me for?"
"Well, uh," Adrien nervously rubs the back of his neck.
Why is this so hard? He doesn't want to hurt Kagami. They're close, as friends. Kagami takes advantage of the silence to lean and kiss him. Maybe a kiss will calm him. He doesn't lean forward. In fact, he looks like he wants to move back. Kagami leans back.
"You hesitate. It hurts me. Why?" Kagami states.
"I think we should… just be friends," Adrien says slowly.
Kagami stares at Adrien with no reaction. Adrien is afraid how she'll react.
"Why?"
Adrien wasn't prepared for her stoicness.
"I'm just… I like someone else. It's complicated."
"Is it Marinette?"
Adrien's eyes go wide.
"What? No! We're just friends. Why would you ask that?" Adrien asks bewildered.
"Just asking," Kagami responds.
"It's someone else. I really should be getting over them. And I don't want to put you through that. You're great Kagami, I should think we're better as friends."
"But we're perfect together. We have so much in common."
That's also a problem. Kagami is in love with Adrien, the perfect son. The one that has to listen to his father and do whatever he says. Like lessons and stay at home. The boy that has to be careful what he says to uphold a certain image. Adrien just really isn't his true self.
"I know," Adrien replies anyway. "But I still think we should be friends. You're still important to me."
All his friends are.
"I get it. Maybe someday."
Adrien isn't sure his feelings for Kagami will be that way but he doesn't want to hurt her.
"Maybe."
"We can still be friends. I don't have many friends."
"You have me. And aren't you close with Marinette now?"
"I haven't see her outside of school since Miracle Queen."
Adrien nods in agreement. He hasn't seen her outside of school since then either. She claims to be busy, but she might just be dealing with the incident. Many people are in their own way. He hasn't seen Chloe at since then. She's even been dodging his texts and calls.
"I think Paris took a big hit emotionally that day," Adrien theorizes.
"Yes, I'm sure she's fine though," Kagami says.
"Yeah," Adrien agrees. "Well I should probably head back before anyone notices me gone."
Kagami stands.
"See you in school Adrien," Kagami departs.
"See you tomorrow," Adrien repeats.
After she leaves, Plagg pokes his head out since no one is around.
"You okay?" Plagg asks.
"I will be. Do you mind if I stay as Cat Noir for a while? I don't want to go back home just yet," Adrien requests.
"I better get a lot of cheese for this," Plagg gives in.
Ladybug lands on the hotel's rooftop. She sees the news being played on Chloe's giant TV. They're outside the hotel.
"It's been two weeks since the Miracle Queen incident and Chloe Bourgeois is still hiding at the Le Grande Paris. Many rumors are flying around that Chloe actually wanted to help out Hawk Moth. At the moment, Chloe and her parents have refused to give a formal statement," Nadia reports.
"Utterly ridiculous," Chloe mumbles.
Ladybug sighs before knocking on the balcony doors. Chloe jumps and turns to see who it is. She scowls before walking over and angrily opening the door.
"What are you doing here, Ladybug? I told you we're no longer friends," Chloe says irritated.
"I came to apologize. Please, can I come in?" Ladybug asks sincerely.
Chloe ponders a moment before stepping aside to let her in. Ladybug walks to the middle of the room and shifts weight between her legs, not sure what to say still. Chloe folds her arms.
"Well?" Chloe pushes.
"Chloe, I'm sorry I've let you down lately. Truth is, I should have done this sooner. But I've been reluctant to. Truth is, I've never considered us friends. I thought you were mean, bratty, and I couldn't stand to be near you," Ladybug reveals.
"Is this how you apologize?" Chloe questions offended.
"I'm not finished. You having the bee miraculous was an accident. You made mistakes, but I've made many too. I let my personal opinion cloud my judgment. Truth is, you were a great Queen Bee. You were your best as her. But everyone knows you're Queen Bee and look, Hawk Moth took advantage of that. That's why I can't give it back to you. I can't risk your family and friends," Ladybug continues.
Chloe's posture softens. She seems to struggle to say something but decides against it. Ladybug keeps going.
"I'm sorry I let you down. I've let Paris down. I'm trying to do better, to fix my mistakes. You may not have the bee miraculous, but you don't need to be the person you were as her. I believe in you. You're not who you show people. I hope you can forgive me," Ladybug concludes.
Chloe is on guard again.
"I think you should go," Chloe speaks.
Ladybug nods, accepting she'll have to work on Chloe's forgiveness. Something she never thought would happen.
"Thanks for letting me speak," Ladybug thanks.
She stands on the ledge of the hotel, about to leave, when the news reporters catch her attention. Instead of going off somewhere, she decides to give a statement. There are flashes of cameras as she lands on the ground.
"Ladybug! Care to give a statement?" Nadia questions.
"Sure," Ladybug allows.
"Is it true that Chloe Bourgeois willingly helped Hawk Moth?" Nadia inquires.
"Hawk Moth is a powerful foe. He's good at manipulating people and giving them exactly what they want. Those type of people are dangerous. Everyone who's been akumatized struggles at his manipulation. With their heightened emotions, hearing someone there to fix your problems seems like a right choice. Chloe is no different," Ladybug answers.
"Do you think she should be charged for crimes as Miracle Queen?" Nadia asks.
"Chloe Bourgeois was just a victim of Hawk Moth, just like everyone else. The only ones that should be brought to justice are Hawk Moth and Mayura," Ladybug defends.
"Are the two of you close?" Nadia follows up.
"Chloe and I have had a strange relationship, but I've let her down. I've let Paris down. I'm working on being better," Ladybug replies.
"How close are you to finding Hawk Moth? Nadia questions.
"Finding him has proven to be difficult, but as long as Cat Noir and I are here, Paris will be safe," Ladybug ensures. "Sorry but I have to be somewhere. Bug out!"
Ladybug uses her yo-yo to take off. She transforms behind an alley and walks into the bakery. Her dad greets her with a smile. Marinette makes her way upstairs to her room. She passes her mother cooking dinner in the kitchen. Opening the trapdoor, she's happy the kwamis are hidden until she closes her trapdoor.
"Marinette!" Stompp beams.
They all fly over to greet her. Marinette giggles.
"Hi guys, nice to be back," Marinette returns.
She places her purse down and stretches.
"Are you guys hungry for dinner?" Marinette asks.
All voice how ready they are to eat.
"I'll be back soon," Marinette promises.
She goes downstairs to see both her parents there. Her mother is plating dinner.
"Perfect timing," Sabine smiles.
"For once," Tom teases.
"Hey!" Marinette can't help but laugh.
The three sit down and eat dinner. Marinette laughs as she hears about her parents' day. Afterwards, the three of them clean up the mess. Tom and Sabine decide to watch some TV before heading to bed. Marinette grabs another tray of food and heads back up to her room.
"Sorry," Marinette apologizes. "We had dinner."
The kwamis don't mind as they munch on their food. Marinette goes over to her desk when she notices something under it. It's a picture of Adrien. How did she miss this? He's posing for the camera in his usual clothes. His smile is bright and Marinette very nearly melts. She grips the picture a little too tightly. Glancing around the room, all of Adrien's pictures have been taken down. The only pictures he's in are with the entire class and with Alya, Nino, and her.
Marinette bites her lip before going over to her chest. Unlike months ago, the chest is neater. All presents she made for Adrien are perfectly stacked. All the photos have been thrown in a giant pile. Even his schedule has been tossed in. On top lays the umbrella he gave to her on the first day of school. Marinette drops the newly found picture inside and closes the chest.
"Whatcha doing?" Tikki asks scaring Marinette.
She jumps with a squeak.
"I was just putting another picture in!" Marinette responds before her mood drops. "I still don't know what to do with all of this."
"Are you sure you want to get rid of it? Give up on Adrien?" Tikki persists.
"He doesn't love me Tikki, he's made that clear. I want him to be happy. We're friends, I should be focused on being a good friend," Marinette stands firm.
Tikki sighs. Humans really are complicated. Especially her chosen. Maybe as guardian things could be different. Marinette changes the topic, surprising Tikki.
"What do you think the other guardians think?" Marinette asks.
Tikki blinks.
"About what?"
"Me being the guardian. All of this. I should probably see them."
"How will you get there?"
"With the horse miraculous. I'll have to get Cat's ring first."
"You're going to take all of the miraculouses?"
"What if they want me to return them?"
"What about Hawk Moth? And Mayura? They still have miraculouses."
"I'll explain everything. Going seems like the right thing to do."
"I'll do what you think is right. See if you can get Cat Noir's miraculous before telling the others."
"I will."
"Marinette!" Orikko calls.
All the kwamis float around her. At first, she's worried they heard their conversation.
"Can we watch a movie?" Daizzi speaks up.
"Oh, oh! What about that really funny one with the tiny, emotional people?" Barkk suggests.
"How about a new one. One with a princess, a thief, and magic," Marinette decides.
"Oooo," they all say interested.
They all curl up on Marinette's bed and watch the movie. Though they ask a lot of questions. "Why does the guy have a pet monkey?" "Am I more impressive than that tiger?" "Do normal humans wish on genies?" "Why is there so much random singing?" But Marinette doesn't mind. Most of the time the kwamis can be a handful but Marinette enjoys having them. Having them free might not be a safe option, contradictory to how Ladybug usually is, but it felt weird having them dormant in a box in the same room as her.
After the movie, all the kwamis, besides Tikki, head to the dollhouse to sleep. Marinette transforms into Ladybug and begins her patrol. Once everything checks out, Ladybug meets Cat Noir at their normal meeting spot.
"Evening kitty," Ladybug greets.
"Hi Milady, how are you?" Cat Noir smiles.
Ladybug sits next to him and releases a deep sigh. He sees how worn she looks. Her smile isn't right. Something is definitely up.
"Crazy, but I'll get the hang of things," Ladybug replies.
"You know I'm always here for you," Cat Noir reminds.
Ladybug bites her lip. How does she word this request without sounding awful?
"Cat Noir?" Ladybug braves. "I need your miraculous."
No response. Ladybug looks at him to see a confused and shocked kitty. His eyes are even bigger and his mouth is slightly open.
"You what?"
"I need you to give me your miraculous."
"Why? Because you're the guardian now and you don't want me to be Cat Noir anymore?" Cat Noir asks hurt.
"No, no! That's not it. You know you mean a lot to me. You're my partner. There's no one I want as Cat Noir than you," Ladybug assures.
"Then why?"
"I'm going to the temple of the guardians. I need to talk to them about everything. They may ask for the miraculouses back," Ladybug explains.
"What about Hawk Moth? Mayura? All of Paris is counting on us."
Ladybug sighs.
"It's up to them to decide. Cat, I'm no guardian. I'm only–" Ladybug catches herself before she reveals how old she is. "I'm only me. I have little training, no idea what to do. Being Ladybug has been so chaotic. I don't know if I'll be a good guardian."
"Master Fu believes in you. You heard what he said. You're the best holder he's ever seen," Cat Noir recalls.
"And now he doesn't remember anything about miraculouses. Because of me," Ladybug points out.
"You have to stop blaming yourself Bugaboo."
"It's true. Just as Ladybug I needed his help. I looked to him for guidance. That's why I have to see the guardians. Besides, it's the right thing to do. They rightfully belong to them."
Cat Noir looks down and closes his eyes. He sighs. There's no way he wants to give up Cat Noir, himself. This means everything to him. How could he refuse her? Isn't he meant to move on from her? Seeing her, needing him, doesn't help.
"Alright," Cat Noir relents.
Ladybug smiles.
"Will I get to know who you are?" Cat Noir inquires.
Ladybug's smile falters. She hadn't thought of that. Of course he would want to know who she is. How does she tell him that she's afraid. Cat Noir is her best friend, what if he's disappointed? Marinette could never live up to Ladybug.
"Let me see what the guardians say," Ladybug replies slowly. "Have Plagg bring his miraculous to me tomorrow night. We'll meet the following night."
"How?"
Ladybug bites her lip in thought. Why does he have to be so smart? She was hoping to avoid actually meeting. Where could they both meet as civilians? Sneaking out would be harder without powers.
"We'll meet somewhere. Suggestions?"
"Our statue. Ten?"
"Sounds good."
Cat Noir wonders how he'll be able to sneak out without his powers. He'll find a way. He'll need to. The two depart. Back in her room, Ladybug drops her transformation. Marinette falls on her bed with a sigh.
"It went well," Tikki comments.
"Yeah, I'm glad. I just kind of hope we keep our powers. Saves me the excuse of not revealing my identity," Marinette divulges.
"Why wouldn't you want to know? Don't you want to know who Cat Noir is?" Tikki questions.
"It doesn't matter. It wouldn't really change anything. Except I'd have a human face to put to him. He'd still be Cat Noir to me."
Tikki struggles not to say anything. How it'll be Adrien's face to Cat Noir's mask.
"So you don't want him to know it's you?"
"No. I don't. I don't want to disappoint him. He's in love with Ladybug. Imagine how he'd feel if he found out just plain Marinette is Ladybug."
"Marinette you are Ladybug. Without the mask."
"I'm definitely not. Marinette is a mess. Knowing might complicate things, ruin things. Knowing might turn him into Cat Blanc again."
Tikki places a hand on Marinette.
"Is that what you're worried about? Cat Noir being akumatized again?"
"Tikki, he was the hardest person I've ever faced. He was so sad and hurt. All because he knew who I was. I can't go through that again."
"Marinette, that's not gonna happen again."
"How do you know?"
"Because. All miraculous holders have shared their identity with other holds. It's especially Ladybug and Cat Noir. They have a special relationship."
"They've all been in love?"
"Not always. Some were best friends. Some siblings. Cousins. But yes some were in love, whether before or after they received the miraculous. But every bond has been strong."
"Then why was Cat Noir akumatized?"
"It wasn't the right time. Master Fu said it's dangerous to share your identities and he's right. It is. Not only because of Hawk Moth but because it hasn't been the right time."
"So I should wait until after Hawk Moth has been defeated?"
"You should wait until the right time. You'll know when it is."
"This doesn't feel like it. I'm not ready."
"Then let's hope you don't need to."
Tikki smiles encouraging Marinette to smile.
"Thanks Tikki."
Tikki hugs her cheek. Marinette holds her there.
"It's late, you should get some sleep," Tikki suggests.
"I want to go through the pages some more. I think I'm close on one," Marinette declines.
Tikki is about to argue but know there's no use. Tikki falls asleep on a pillow on Marinette's bed. Marinette pulls out Master Fu's old tablet out and opens the photos of the Miraculous Spellbook. Master Fu has written some notes on the tablet, but unfortunately are in various not well-known languages. That's what the stack of translation books on her desk is for.
The next morning, Tikki wakes up to an alarm. She recognizes it as Marinette's phone. With a groan, Tikki floats over the bed to see why the phone is down there. Marinette is asleep leaning on her desk. Tikki floats down and taps Marinette.
"Wake up, you'll be late for school," Tikki prompts.
Marinette mumbles some words. Tikki keeps poking her.
"Wake up Marinette. Wake up!" Tikki demands.
Marinette wakes up with a groan. She turns off her alarm and gasps at the time.
"I'm going to be late!" Marinette panics.
She changes into clean clothes and gets her bathroom stuff done. Running and tripping down the steps, she grabs some cookies and fruit in a bowl and takes them back upstairs. Most of the kwamis are awake now. They beam at the sight of food. Marinette rushes to get her school stuff and run out the door.
"How is she late every day if the school is across the street?" Mullo wonders.
"Humans are weird," Xuppu figures.
The kwamis shrug before going back to their food. Marinette shouts a goodbye to her parents before running out the door. Luckily the light allows her to cross the street just in time. Continuing her run, she skips some steps and quickly inside the school. After nearly collapsing at her classroom door, she walks inside. The bell hasn't rung yet. Everyone else is there though. Everyone but Chloe. Marinette frowns at that. Maybe her words had no impact on Chloe.
"Marinette!" Alya calls.
Marinette waves and smiles at her friend. She goes to sit at her seat.
"Morning Marinette," Adrien greets with a smile.
"Hi… Adrien," Marinette responds.
She quickly passes him to sit down. Getting over boys is hard. Fortunately, Alya distracts her. Somewhat.
"Hey girl, I didn't hear from you all weekend," Alya states.
"I'm sorry! I was… busy! I was busy. Lots of homework to do," Marinette comes up with.
"I thought homework was pretty light," Alya notes.
"I went ahead. Plus studying. Never too early to start studying for exams," Marinette covers.
"You doing extra homework and studying? Something's fishy," Alya suspects.
"Does your reporter brain ever take a break? Where's the off switch?" Marinette teases and pretends to look for one.
"Sorry girl. I'm a reporter 24/7," Alya smiles.
Marinette giggles. Nino turns around, which encourages Adrien to do the same.
"Sorry Dudette, I've already looked. Pretty sure she was built without one," Nino jokes.
"Ha, ha. You two are so funny," Alya retorts.
"It's good to see you smile Dudette," Nino comments.
"What are you talking about?" Marinette asks.
"It's like I haven't really seen you in a couple weeks. Not except for class. Which you usually arrive late to and leave immediately when the bell rings," Nino clarifies.
"Yeah, we've missed you," Adrien expands.
Marinette bites her lip to prevent herself from saying something stupid. 'Do not read into his words. We're getting over him remember?'
"I've just been doing a lot. It's kind of a stressful time of year," Marinette voices.
"Believe it. End of year exams coming up, trying to find new photos for my ladyblog. It's a wonder I have time for anything else," Alya agrees. "We should sit together for lunch."
"Alright! Sounds good," Nino agrees.
"I'm sure my father wouldn't let me stay," Adrien saddens.
Marinette couldn't stay either. She needs to check on the kwamis and get some afternoon homework done, because despite what she said, hardly any homework got done over the weekend.
"I have to help my parents out today. Maybe next time though," Marinette apologizes.
"Darn, well next time," Alya accepts.
The bell rings.
"Alright class, let's turn to where we left off last time," Ms. Bustier instructs.
Once the bell rings for lunch, Marinette takes off without saying goodbye to her friends. Alya, Nino, and Adrien walk out feeling weird.
"She's acting so strange," Alya comments.
"I thought she just had to work at the bakery," Nino figures.
"You think she really is?" Alya asks.
"Why would she lie?" Adrien questions.
"You're right, I guess Marinette is being Marinette," Alya determines.
"See you after lunch," Adrien waves.
He hops into his car to get to his mansion. Though, he can't help but look out the window as they pass by the bakery. Marinette isn't acting strange is she? Nah, he's just worrying over nothing. Marinette is fine.
Later that night, Marinette says goodnight to her parents before closing the trapdoor. She's greeted enthusiastically by all the kwamis. Marinette giggles. Then they go back to their playing. She climbs into her bed, not sure what to do until Plagg arrives.
Tikki floats up just in time to see Marinette grab her diary and tear a page out. That seems strange to Tikki. She flies over to her chosen's knee.
"What are you doing Marinette?" Tikki wonders.
"Writing a letter. In case I forget my memories," Marinette answers.
"Why?"
"Well if I give up the miraculous box I'll forget. I just want to tell Cat Noir some things."
"And what if you keep the box and don't forget?"
"Someday I will. Either way, I want to write one for Cat Noir. I can always change what I want to say."
"That's very sweet Marinette."
"Thanks," Marinette smiles.
She starts scribbling on her paper. In Adrien's room, he's playing with the ring on his finger. Plagg is stuffing his mouth with cheese.
"The worst part about being in the miraculous box is no cheese," Plagg complains.
"How do you survive? You constantly need cheese," Adrien taunts.
"Magic. We can go centuries without food. I just take advantage of being out."
"Clearly."
Adrien sighs.
"What's wrong?"
"It's just, I promised never to take my ring off again. Now that's exactly what I'm doing."
"You have to. Ladybug is the guardian and she needs it back."
"So now that she's the guardian it's okay for her to order me around?"
"That's not what I'm saying. This is important to her. Trust her."
"I do trust her. She's Ladybug. I just wish I didn't have to give up being Cat Noir. I already miss it."
"I know. You're the best Cat Noir I've ever had. And I'd hate to leave you here… plus I'll…" Plagg says before turning his head away embarrassed. "Miss you."
Adrien smiles.
"I'll miss you too."
The two share a hug. Adrien hesitates before taking off his ring and handing it to Plagg. He grabs it and flies to the window, stopping before exiting. Glancing back, Adrien gives a small smile and waves. Plagg nods before phasing through the window and leaving.
Marinette finishes her letter and puts it in an envelope. She writes "Cat Noir" on the front. Then she adds a sticky note reading "Meet at the statue in park on Tuesday at 10pm. Bring letter and give it to guy who shows up -M". Marinette feels uncertain. Is this really what she wants. Plagg phases into her room. He seems forlorn.
"Ready?" Plagg asks.
Well, no turning back now.
Hope it was a good first chapter. There's a LOT to come. I need your opinion though. I like Kim and Alix together. I know Kim is kind of with Ondine, so write a review to let me know which is better. Either way it'll be small compared to other couples. Also what you guys think of Chloe and Felix. Maybe weird? I just don't know who Chloe should be with. But I think they could be a good pair since they're kind of similar. Also Felix wouldn't turn out to be a bad person, just kind of lost since his father passed. Write a review what you think about these things and also any season 4 things. Thanks for reading!