TRUE COLORS
Note: Thanks everyone for patiently waiting and for all of your support! Finished under a month (by one day) as promised. I didn't mean to take this long but life happens. I went home for the funeral, that was pretty emotional, so I didn't write for the whole week I was there. Then the week I came back was really busy, only wrote a page or two. Then I fell longboarding and badly hurt my hand. I couldn't use it much less write. What else is new… I made a profile on two dating sites! That's been okay I guess. Had a date plan but then he "cancelled twice" and by cancel I mean never set a date then won't reply to me. Why do you do that men?! (Not really stereotyping all men, just ranting frustration.) I've been talking to someone else so hopefully that goes better. Sorry if I don't respond to your review. The site was being weird.
ShimmeringGem81: Thanks so much for reviewing! Lol I've only been emotionally capable of watching it once. Hope it watch again soon. Poor pillow lol.
8unnix: The beginning of your review made me laugh so hard lol. Glad you liked the chapter. Thanks for your understanding about my updating schedule as always and for the condolences. It's been hard, but I think it's easier being across the country away from where she lived. I totally forgot about that part! I felt like Nino had done something with his hat before. Thanks for reminding me. Haha, I love writing Nino and Alya's relationship. So much fun! I don't know how I write groups. It just happens. Thanks again for all your amazing praise! It means the world to me.
StarCatcher10: Thank you so much for your praise, well wishes, and mentioning my birthday. Glad you liked the party and hope you like this chapter too.
Calerose: 1) thank you 2) aww thanks! 3) Very sweet. Wish it was my job to write episodes for Miraculous Ladybug, that would be amazing! 4) I'm really enjoying it so far. Think the only reason I'd leave (as of right now) would be if I go back to school in Ca. Awesome! Neighbors!
Aria2006: Thanks so much for your review. Happy you love my story. I'm not saying anything. Mostly because I'm still trying to determine how the end will be.
Unicorn404: Yay! Glad to hear. Yes, I'm happy I made that happen for him. Lol no, it's okay. I'm a ranter too. Aww thanks so much!
GuenZhenXuan2020: Happy you loved it. They've felted cheated, being away for all those years and felt their job was forced on them. So right now, they're people who have been hurt and are angry towards miraculouses. Will they change? We'll see.
Candylover777: Thank you for not ditching my story. Hope you like this chapter!
Candyfloss5: I forgive you. Yes, it's sad to see that happen. I've experienced that with really good stories and it's always frustrating. You're welcome. And yes I saw the New York special. SO many emotions.
Rose Catulus: Thank you so much. Glad you liked how the chapter went with the characters. Writing so many people at once always makes me nervous. Yes, I think it's important to be realistic, even if it's not 100%. I hate reading a story and feeling like what I just read would never happen. It's hard to believe. Happy to hear you like the fight scenes and descriptions. Plus the message at the end. Felt it was really relevant for what I was going through. Yeah, I've at least made them a couple in my story. Ondine doesn't really appear often on the show.
Fan4evr12: Thanks for reviewing! Glad you're loving my story. Interesting, not sure I could use it though. I haven't read other people's stories in a while. I always forget too and honestly I didn't think so many people would reply, so I'm WAY behind.
Important: the event in this chapter is made up. At least I think it is. I didn't look to see if it's a real thing. Either way, I'm adding my own spin to it. Hope you like it. Enjoy!
True Colors
Chapter 11: Travel Light
November 13th, Wednesday
Twenty-seven students at Lycée Josué Trudeau are sitting in the terminale hangout. They're gathered together as closely as comfortable for the amount of students. Each have some papers in front of them. The three secretaries record the minute the meeting begins. The terminale president stands after clearing his throat.
"I call this meeting into order," he starts. "First item on the agenda, theme for the City Lights Festival."
The première president, Blaise, takes the standing position.
"With our block section, the city has approved of our rainbow theme. Since our school is third in the row, our color is yellow," Blaise relays.
"Hm, does anyone have any ideas what we could do with yellow?" the terminale president leaves the floor open for discussion.
The room is silent as the room thinks about a theme. Nothing seems to jump out at them.
"When I think of yellow, I think of summer," Aurore speaks up. "All the sunshine and brightness. I love it."
"That's a good point. We could do summer. It's clear enough that people would be able to tell what it is," Marinette supports.
"Okay summer, I like it," the terminale president nods in approval.
"But besides the sun, what else could we do, Chandler?" the première vice-president questions.
"I think of bees," a terminale student council member adds.
"Bees? Bees aren't very fun though," the première vice-president argues.
"Then cute, fun bees," Alya defends, crossing her arms. "Sure they can be annoying, but bees are important."
"And nothing goes great with bees than flowers," Geneviève inputs.
"And honey," Wayhem beams.
"So we have a solid theme with great ideas for yellow. We'll divide the classes, two designs each. Don't forget we also have to wrap lights around the school," the terminale president, Chandler, directs.
"I've written done yellow lights for our materials and a few other things we might need. Joy and Félix, let me know how much lights you need me to order," the terminale secretary, Holly, announces.
"And if it's in your budget treasurers," the terminale treasurer, Odilia, comments.
"Great, what is each class doing?" Blaise inquires.
"We'll take turns picking. Terminale go first. We'll do the sun," Chandler decides.
"We want to have the bee," Blaise chooses.
"We'll do a flower. Is sunflower fine with everyone?" Marinette wonders.
Everyone is in agreement. Sunflower is a perfect choice.
"What's left?" Chandler turns to his secretary.
"Honey and lights around the school. We still need a sixth option," Holly reads.
"How about a lemon?" Denise shrugs.
"Lemons are popular summer, citrus fruits," Kagami mentions.
"Lemons, perfect. We'll do that. Since première is doing bees, it makes sense if you guys do honey too. Is seconde okay with doing the lights around the school?" the Chandler instructs.
"Totally. Though I'm not sure we have enough money for that amount of lights. Max?" Marinette turns to.
Max looks at his spreadsheet.
"There's a eight-six percent chance we'll need to raise some more money," Max adjusts his glasses.
"You guys will need a lot more lights" Chandler notes. "Can the other two classes chip in?"
"Yes we've got plenty to help out," Odilia shares.
"We don't have a ton but we'll do what we can," the première treasurer goes through her papers.
"Perfect. Ideas for getting students involved in helping out?" Chandler moves to the next topic.
"We can make an announcement tomorrow morning for volunteers. We'll just need a set time and place to meet," Aurore suggests.
"Alright. We'll meet after school tomorrow and Friday in the courtyard. The event is Saturday so we'll need to be done by then. Probably should have had this meeting last week. Will the lights even get here in time?" Chandler begins to worry.
"I know someone who can probably get me lights today or tomorrow afternoon," Holly eases his stress.
"Great, can you add this topic to the school's announcements tomorrow?" Chandler requests.
The secretary nods as she adds the information to her paper.
"Thanks. Anything else we want to talk about before we move on?" Chandler addresses the room. No one says anything. "Okay, anything else on the agenda?"
"Not from us," Holly shakes her head.
"We'll be planning the winter dance soon, and it looks like we'll need to raise money. We just need your permission to have some fundraisers. We'll get back to you on ideas next week," the première secretary, Joy, discusses.
"Yes that's fine. Make sure you bring it up on our Monday meeting," Chandler approves.
"And nothing from us," Félix announces.
"Great, I call this meeting over. Feel welcome to discuss with your class any plans for the lights," Chandler concludes.
Students break up and talk in smaller groups. Each class makes plans amongst themselves before leaving. While Alya and Marinette are talking and walking through the courtyard, Adrien surprises them by wrapping his arm around his girlfriend. She, of course, jumps with a squeak. Alya and Adrien laugh. Marinette glares at the both of them.
"You guys are so mean," Marinette glowers.
"Sorry girl, but you're too funny," Alya continues laughing.
"And you," Marinette faces Adrien in accusation. "You're supposed to be on my side."
"I couldn't help myself. You make the most adorable reactions," Adrien smiles.
Marinette's fuming face fades and a blushing red takes over. She looks away from her boyfriend, her stuttering old self seeping through.
"G-Good, I mean th-thanks for my face. For complimenting them," Marinette stammers.
The two smile, completely forgetting the two of them aren't the only ones in the world. Alya bites her lip to stop from laughing aloud again.
"I'll leave you two love-birds, see you tomorrow," Alya interrupts.
"Bye Alya, I'll send you the designs tonight," Marinette returns.
"Say hi to Nino for me," Adrien teases.
Alya rolls her eyes, waves, and leaves ahead of them. Adrien picks up his fencing bag before returning his arm around Marinette. The two start walking to the bakery.
"So how was practice?"
"It went fine. Kagami wanted me to tell you she says hello. You two should hang out, you haven't in a while."
"Yes, mother," Marinette giggles.
Adrien rolls his eyes.
"I'm just saying. It sounded like she wants to hang out with you. It's just hard with her strict mother."
"I know. We'll plan something. Promise. I'll be busy the next couple days with organizing the school for the City Lights Festival. Hey, maybe she could help set up too. That is if she isn't supposed to be home then."
"Hm," Adrien taps his chin thoughtfully. "Due to an extra fencing lesson, she'll have to be at school tomorrow."
Adrien's bright smile exposes his plan. Marinette smiles back.
"Great. I'll text her."
The two part ways once they reach the bakery. Gorilla is parked at the curb, ready to take Adrien home. With a kiss to his cheek, Marinette enters the bakery, passes her parents before heading up to her room. She has a lot to do before patrol tonight.
November 14th, Thursday
At eight-thirty, the bell rings, signaling the start of philosophy for our favorite characters. Before the teacher can begin the lesson, announcements are made. The terminale president, Chandler, adds some information after the usual speaker.
"Morning Lycée Josué Trudeau students. As you know the City Lights Festival is on Saturday. Our section will be the colors of a rainbow. Our school is yellow, so the council has decided on a summer theme. We need your help so we can be ready for the festival in time. If you're interested in volunteering to set up the lights, please meet in the courtyard after school. Thanks!"
"Alright students, if you have any questions about any topics from the announcements feel free to ask a member of the student body. Have a great day and see you again tomorrow," the usual male announcer wraps up.
The teacher stands from his desk, finishing taking role as the announcements were going.
"Morning everyone, before you turn in the homework face your partner and go over your answers. We'll do that for ten minutes before lecture," the teacher instructs.
The class is organized into individual desks. Unlike most classes, the students didn't choose their seats. Everyone is in alphabetical order. There are four rows. Six desks in the first and last row, and only five occupied desks in the two middle rows.
The day goes quickly. There's a good turn out in the courtyard after school. Many students from Marinette's main classes show up along with the seconde student council.
"Alright everyone," Chandler gets everyone's attention. "Thank you for giving up time to volunteer today. We'll split up by class to get our work done. Remember we only have today and tomorrow to finish, so please focus on the task."
Marinette is writing on a piece of paper while the seconde students are waiting patiently. She smiles once she's finished.
"Thanks again for coming out today on such short notice. Like we've mentioned before, our theme is summer. Each class is doing two parts. Our class will attempt to create a sunflower, or at least a flower, and wrap the lights around the school. The focus will be on the outside," Marinette speaks up.
"It may sound hard but Markov and I have done the calculations to get everything right," Max assures.
"And it has a ninety-four percent chance of success!" Markov reassures.
"So we'll divide our work. Most of us will be wrapping the lights around the school while the others will be designing how our flower will look. Félix, can you go ask Holly when the rest of the lights will be here?" Marinette informs.
"I'm on it," Félix nods.
He heads over to the terminale group of students and seeks out their secretary.
"Great. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask any council member at any time. We want this task to be as enjoyable as possible," Alya adds.
Aurore and Wayhem join them with a box of water bottles.
"I'm back with refreshments," Aurore beams. "Make sure to grab one and stay hydrated! I even brought a pen so you can all write your name."
That brings some smiles to the group of students.
"Great idea Aurore, and thanks to you both for getting these," Marinette thanks.
Félix comes back over.
"Holly says the rest of the lights should be here within the hour," Félix reports.
"Awesome! Okay, we'll still have most of you wrapping lights with the rest designing. I'll see if we need to move people once the lights get here. For now, we'll split up," Marinette plans.
Marinette, Kagami, and a few other seconde students take the front of the school. Alya, Geneviève, Nino, Marc, and a couple other seconde students head to the west side. Félix, Denise, Adrien, and Nathaniel plus two students in their class work on the east side. Max, Kim, Ondine, and Rose along with three seconde students decorate the back of the school. That leaves Aurore, Wayhem, Ethan, Juleka, and two other students to work on the flower design.
Before everyone goes their separate ways, Alya pulls Marinette aside.
"Do I have to have Geneviève in my group?" Alya complains.
"Yes Alya. She's not so bad," Marinette defends.
"No so bad? She's friends with Lila."
"And none of them have tried anything bad since they apologized. Geneviève has only been helpful to the council."
"Fine," Alya gives in, folding her arms. "But I'm keeping an eye out for her."
"Alright, just don't do anything crazy or extreme. I mean it."
Alya crosses her heart with a smirk, causing Marinette to roll her eyes.
The other two classes get to work as well. Everyone works well together and luckily there aren't any problems. When the rest of the lights arrive, the flower group begin testing their design with them.
Kagami works beside Marinette.
"Thank you for suggesting I assist you today. I'll have to leave when my car arrives though at its usual time," Kagami confides.
"No problem. I'm glad you could come. I've missed hanging out with you. Let's catch up. How's school? How's fencing? Most importantly how's Luka?" Marinette wiggles her eyebrows suggestively.
A small smile appears on Kagami's face.
"Luka is doing fine, thank you."
"And your mother is fine with you two being together?"
Kagami slightly frowns.
"Not exactly. She doesn't understand why I'm not focusing on my studies or at least dating someone accomplished. She hasn't tried to force us to split up yet. I believe she think he's just a phase."
"And is he?"
"No. Absolutely not. Luka is… special. When I'm with him, I'm more myself."
"That's good. I'm glad you guys found each other."
"To think we were once with each other's boyfriends."
Marinette smiles and laughs lightly.
"Yeah well, they're both great catches. I'm happy it worked out for both of us, and we're still able to be friends."
"You like being my friend?"
"Of course! I may not have really liked you in the beginning, but that had nothing to do with you. I was just jealous how close you were with Adrien. It was unfair of me. You're a great friend Kagami."
"Thank you. I think you're a great friend too."
"You should stay over at my house sometime. You're also welcome to come over anytime you want. I think Alya is planning a sleepover, you'll have to come."
"I'll try."
The two girls continue to work while they talk. Sometimes Kagami prefers not to say much, but that just gives Marinette more opportunity to share stories. With everyone working so hard, they've made a lot of progress by the end of the hour.
Back at home, Marinette is staying up late to finish her homework. She's in the middle of her anatomy assignment when a special guest arrives.
"You still haven't done that yet?" Cat Noir pops out of nowhere.
Marinette screams and falls out of her chair. Two sets of footprints race to her trapdoor. Her parents, in their pjs, open the door with concerned faces.
"Are you alright dear?" Sabine worries.
"We heard you scream," Tom contributes.
Marinette rubs her head and softly laughs awkwardly.
"I'm fine. I just saw a spider. Sorry to wake you," Marinette apologizes.
"A spider?!" Tom lowers his head so it can't be seen anymore.
"Do you want me to kill it?" Sabine hits her palm with her fist.
"I accidentally squished it with my book when I fell. Thanks though," Marinette stands up.
"Glad you're alright sweetie. Sleep well, and don't stay up too late," Sabine smiles with a yawn.
She goes back downstairs. Tom raises his head.
"And if you need anything, don't hesitate to get me. Except for spiders, wake your mother," Tom leaves.
With the trapdoor once again shut, Marinette whirls around, a heavy glare stuck on her face. Cat Noir lifts the bed cover over his head with a wide smile. He jumps to the ground beside her before bursting out in laughter. Cat rubs his arm where Marinette punches him.
"That wasn't funny! You scared me so bad I woke my parents! What do you have to say for yourself?!" Marinette fumes.
She goes to hit him again, but this time Cat is prepared for her strike. He grabs her right hand and then the left when it swings toward him. Pulling her close, Cat kisses her nose.
"You're just so adorable when you're scared. And angry," Cat snickers.
Marinette's face doesn't relax. She's still very angry at her kitty for pulling such a mean trick on her. He should know better! Seeing that his princess isn't going to budge, he decides to play dirty.
"Now princess, I didn't want to do this, but you leave me no choice," Cat threatens.
Realizing what he's talking about, Marinette's eyes widen.
"Don't you dare Cat. I mean it," Marinette warns.
"I'm sorry, it's too late."
Cat Noir's bottom lip sticks out, slightly quivering. His eyes seem to unnaturally grow bigger. A little purr escapes him. Marinette squeezes her hands against Cat's, hoping to have the strength to withstand his "cute kitty eyes" as she named them.
"Fine," Marinette sighs heavily. "I forgive you."
Cat's wide grin returns.
"Knew you couldn't resist me," Cat winks.
Marinette sticks out her tongue. Once again Marinette is pulled forward, but this time her lips find themselves against another pair. She melts in his mouth, hoping it never ends, just as she hopes with every one of their kisses. But like every kiss they share, it eventually ends. Cat rests his forehead against hers.
"Can't believe I went all day without kissing those lips," Cat admits.
"Oh please, we're not that needy couple who constantly has to be with the other, touching and kissing."
"I do," Cat fake whines.
Marinette giggles. She flicks his bell.
"Now, be a good kitty and help me with my homework. And maybe afterwards I'll give you another."
"Yay! Let's do this!"
Cat detransforms and pulls up a chair besides Marinette. The two go over the anatomy assignment. They're able to finish in much less time than Marinette anticipated.
"Thanks Adrien, you're such a great teacher," Marinette compliments.
"No problem. Anything for you. Do you have anything else?"
"Nope, that was it. And I don't have any president duties that need to be done until tomorrow."
"Wow, and it's before midnight."
The two laugh. Adrien stops his laughter to smirk.
"Now. I believe I was promised a kiss."
November 16th, Saturday
Yesterday all the classes were able to finish the light decorations. Everything was looking good. When the sun goes down tonight, the entire city of Paris will be beautifully covered in lights. The festival will be a big hit. That's why the Menaces decide to intervene.
"The whole city is jumping with anticipation with tonight's light festival," Nadia reports.
She's sitting at the news station. A small section of the TV focuses on a camera from a helicopter flies above the city. It focuses on the Eiffel Tower. A camera from below shows a man in engineering suit while workers run around behind him.
"And everyone can't wait to see the Eiffel Tower, the jewel of the City Lights Festival. Can you tell us what we should expect to see?" Nadia asks the man.
A small pause before the man replies.
"I can't spoil the surprise, but everyone will be in awe of what we have planned," the man states.
"Thank you," Nadia nods. "Less than an hour till the light show begins. After the break we'll talk to the mayor, the creator of this event."
Marinette turns down the volume on her computer while the news is on break.
"This is so exciting. I bet the Eiffel Tower will look so beautiful!" Tikki beams.
"Yes, it's usually so amazing, so I can't wait to see how they're changing it for the event," Marinette agrees.
"And I'm looking forward to seeing the school! You all worked so hard on it. It's going to look great!"
"I hope so. It took a few tries to get the flower right, and I hope people will see what we were trying to do."
"They will! Believe in yourself and your classmates. Everything will be perfect."
"Where do you get all of this positivity?" Marinette rests her head on her hand.
"Years of practice," Tikki giggles.
"Wish I could be like that, but for some reason I'm feeling anxious. I can't think of a reason why."
"You're probably just nervous about the school. You're the president of seconde and you want your school to look as great as you envisioned it."
"Maybe… I guess you're right. We got it done and the test worked without any problems. I should just relax."
"There you go!"
Music in the background shows that the news is back on. Marinette turns the volume back up so the two can watch. Again, Nadia is in the studio while a camera in the upper right corner is focused on Mr. Bourgeois.
"Mr. Mayor, can you tell us how you came up with the idea for this festival?" Nadia inquires.
There's a brief pause before Mr. Bourgeois answers.
"Well I'm always looking for ways to bring new events in Paris. This year I was really looking forward to Christmas: the snow, the friendly atmosphere, and lights. And I thought, why not bring some of that to Paris a little early," Mr. Bourgeois reveals.
"Wonderful, now what–" Nadia is interrupted by someone speaking into her comm.
Her facial expression becomes serious and slowly concerned.
"Breaking news, it looks like the Miraculous Menaces are attacking the Nogent Nuclear Power Plant in Nogent-sur-Seine," Nadia updates.
"Why would they do that?" Tikki questions.
"I'm not sure," Marinette stands. "No matter, we have to stop them."
"I agree," Tikki concurs.
"Tikki, spots on!"
Marinette transforms and immediately pulls out her yo-yo to contact her partner. Cat Noir picks up as he races across the rooftops.
"What do you think they're up to Milady?"
"Not sure, but we need to get to them."
"I'll meet you halfway."
"See you soon."
The heroes hang up. Ladybug waits on the roof for her kitty. He arrives a few minutes after her.
"Where were you? I thought you would beat me here."
"Sorry Bugaboo. I went back for something."
"What?"
Cat Noir shows the horse miraculous.
"Nogent-sur-Seine is about 110 kilometers away, we have to get there quick somehow."
"Good thinking kitty," Ladybug ruffles his hair.
She holds out her hand for the miraculous. Cat closes his hand and pulls back his arm as if he's been burned.
"I want to do it," Cat protests. "It was my idea."
Ladybug rolls her eyes before moving her hand to her hip.
"Fine. Hurry up then."
Cat smiles brightly.
He puts on the miraculous.
"Plagg, Kaalki, unify!"
Cat Noir's usual black suit is infused with brown and patterns associated with the horse miraculous.
"Voyage!" Cat Noir goes through the motions.
He steps through first followed by Ladybug. They arrive in front of the power plant. Lemore, Velocitrix, and unfamiliar man are standing in front of the power plant.
"Plagg, Kaalki, divide!"
Cat Noir pockets the horse miraculous.
"You're finally here," Velocitrix twirls her hair. "We were wondering what took you so long."
Her eyes flicker to the man. He stiffens before speaking.
"It would have been boring to win without you here," the man discloses.
"Who are you supposed to be Chamelemorph?" Ladybug queries.
"Julien Allard, power plant head engineer," he answers.
"I'm guessing you want to take down the power plant. What a shock," Cat puns.
"Why are you here?" Ladybug questions.
"Don't you know where we are?" Velocitrix gestures to the place.
"The Nogent Nuclear Power Plant," Cat shrugs.
"And do you know where some of its electricity goes to?" Velocitrix continues.
"Paris," Ladybug guesses.
"It seems she does have a brain," Lemore mumbles, though loud enough for everyone to hear.
"And I'm guessing this isn't a cat-cidence you're here today. You want to ruin the City Lights Festival," Cat points out.
"Why give the kitten a treat!" Velocitrix teases.
Cat glares at her.
"We won't let that happen," Ladybug determines.
"We'll see about that. Lemore and I will hold them off. You go on ahead boss and take down the power for Paris, all of France if you get a chance," Velocitrix directs at Chamelemorph's disguise.
"R-Right," he falters before turning and running.
Velocitrix and Lemore pull out their weapons, blocking the heroes' path. Ladybug and Cat Noir draw out their yo-yo and staff.
"We need to take them down quick and stop Chamelemorph from halting the power plant," Ladybug instructs.
"On it Milady," Cat nods.
He jumps forward and is met by Lemore's sword. The two exchange blows, being blocked or dodged each time. Velocitrix pulls out some smoke bombs. She throws them near Ladybug. Ladybug covers her face and tries to see through the smoke. A punch comes directly at her, but luckily she notices in time and moves out of the way. Swinging her yo-yo quickly, Ladybug is able to dissipate the smoke.
Velocitrix grabs some bombs from her belt. Jumping in the air, she throws them down at Ladybug. Ladybug dodges and flips out of the way. One blast that gets too close pushes her back, but fortunately doesn't damage her.
"You're quick," Velocitrix notes. "But I'm much faster."
Quick as lightning, Velocitrix pulls out more bombs and throws them at Ladybug. Cat Noir's quick reflexes are too much for Lemore. Though with each miss, his composure remains the same. Stoic as usual.
"Might as well save us the trouble of fighting. You know your skills are no match for me," Cat gibes.
"Your poor-excuse for skill with the miraculous may be an advantage to you, but I've studied swordsmanship way before you were even born," Lemore counters.
"Wow. Don't think I've ever heard you speak that much at a time. I must be really rallying you up."
Lemore's grip on his sword tightens ever so slightly. Cat smirks.
"Besides," Cat continues. "Your old-fashioned moves are no match for me."
Feeling silly, Cat stops fighting to demonstrate his words by moonwalking.
"Cat, are you seriously dancing right now?!" Ladybug notices.
Cat stops and rubs the back of his neck.
"Sorry!" he apologizes.
He's barely able to block a blow from Lemore.
"Striking while I'm not paying attention. How low!"
Lemore doesn't speak anymore, instead his strikes become more powerful. Cat puts his humor on hold to take the fight seriously.
"As much fun as I'm having playing with you, we're on a deadline," Velocitrix pauses with her bombs. "Sprint!"
Velocitrix races around Ladybug, even taking a moment to fly in between Cat and Lemore. The force from her run circling Ladybug, makes the heroine feel like she's going to fly away. Ladybug throws her yo-yo, managing to attach it to a pole. Velocitrix trips and goes flying. She lands on her foot wrong and crumbles to the ground. Velocitrix holds her ankle, groaning from the pain.
Ladybug retracts her yo-yo and throws it at Lemore's sword as he pulls it back. With his sword trapped, Cat hits his staff against Lemore's chest and pushes him back. Lemore slips on some pipes and falls over.
"Come on, we have to find Chamelemorph before it's too late!" Ladybug reminds.
The two heroes race down the path he took as Julien. The plant is surprisingly empty. The only sound is the echoing in the halls from their feet. They're about to split up to cover more ground when they hear something around the corner. It's Julien messing with some electrical boxes.
"Stop right there!" Ladybug demands.
He turns around, gasping from surprise.
"Don't make another move," Cat orders.
Julien starts to raise his arms in the air when Lemore and Velocitrix arrive. Coming from a different hallway, the two stand next to Julien. Lemore has his arm wrapped around Velocitrix, who's leaning against him for support.
"It's not over yet," Velocitrix interjects.
"Really? Because from where we're standing, your light's up," Cat smirks.
"You're injured Velocitrix and we'll easily take Chamelemorph down in his state," Ladybug points out.
"It's over," Cat confirms.
Lemore's normal calm face slips into a smirk.
"Are you sure about that?" Lemore challenges smugly.
His transformation falls. The heroes step back in shock. There in Lemore's place, Chamelemorph stands triumphantly.
"What?" Ladybug manages to say in her state.
"You two think you're so clever, but you really aren't. Until next time Loserbug and Cat Nuisance," Chamelemorph winks.
He pulls out a ninja star, embedding it into a pipe. Steam pours out profusely, causing Ladybug, Cat Noir, and Julien to cough. The latter pulls a switch, making the steam slow down. The Menaces escaped amongst the smoke once again.
"I don't understand what just happened," Cat confesses.
Ladybug steps toward Julien.
"Does that mean you're the real Julien Allard after all?" Ladybug questions.
"I am. I'm sorry for deceiving you Ladybug. They threatened to hurt me if I didn't play along," Julien informs.
Ladybug taps her chin.
"This is all very strange," Ladybug thinks aloud.
"Should we see if we can find Velocitrix and Lemore, I mean Chamelemorph?" Cat suggests.
"No. We should head back to Paris. I have a feeling we're needed there more."
Using the horse miraculous once again, Cat and Ladybug return to Paris. They stand on a random sidewalk, the sun already set and night settling in over the sky. Nadia appears on one of the giant screens.
"And with that it's finally time for the City Light Festival to begin," Nadia announces. "The Eiffel Tower will light the way."
People on the streets cheer. All around the city, people are required to use as little electricity as possible during the event.
The screen changes to a view from a helicopter above the city. The camera points at the Eiffel Tower, but after several moments, nothing happens. The Eiffel Tower remains dark. Ladybug's heart pounds faster with each delayed moment.
"This can't be good," Cat voices.
Nadia's face once again appears. Her hand is on her ear, listening to information someone is conveying to her.
"Sorry folks, it looks like we're having some difficulties," Nadia relays.
The crowd gasps and begin murmuring amongst themselves. Ladybug and Cat Noir take off, running across Paris to the Eiffel Tower. A group of engineers are gathered, rapidly moving about. The head engineer sighs as he looks at some papers.
"Sir, can you tell us what's happening?" Ladybug approaches.
"We aren't sure. The tests went fine earlier," the man responds, scratching his head.
The other engineers scream and flee from the area they were just at. Ladybug and Cat Noir take out their weapons. Lemore emerges from the shadows.
"So this is where you've been. What did you do to the Eiffel Tower?" Ladybug accuses.
Lemore tilts his head, unsheathing his sword from it's holder.
"Nothing," Lemore answers.
"I doubt it's a cat-cidence you're here when the Eiffel Tower isn't lighting up," Cat disbelieves.
"You already used that pun earlier," Ladybug whispers.
"Yeah but Lemore didn't get to hear it," Cat reasons.
"Well I've heard it plenty of times," Ladybug rolls her eyes.
"Believe what you want. I did nothing to the tower," Lemore insists.
"Forget his words Cat, let's just fix this," Ladybug focuses. "Lucky charm!"
Throwing her yo-yo into the air. Three wristbands fall into Ladybug's hands. What in the world is she supposed to do with these? Looking around her, nothing will seem to help.
"Any ideas Milady?"
"I'm working on it."
"Then I'll provide some cover."
Cat Noir runs toward Lemore and the two start to fight. Cat extends his staff to elongate it to a more useful weapon. Ladybug swings to different spots in the area, but still can't find a way to use her lucky charm. Lemore isn't holding back today. His strikes seem to be more powerful and accurate, leaving Cat with a few close calls. For someone who likes to be on the offense, he's having to mostly defend in the fight.
His attention solely focuses on his opponent and not the surrounding area. Cat Noir trips and falls backwards. His staff scatters across the ground out of reach. Lemore points his sword at Cat Noir. Preparing to cut Cat down, he's unprepared for the three shoots of pain that hit his eyes. With his free hand, he holds his swore eye and complains from the pain.
Ladybug jumps to Cat Noir's side and helps him up. Lemore nearly growls from pain.
"Was that necessary?" Lemore questions.
"You were going to hurt my partner, of course it was necessary," Ladybug argues.
She picks up the lucky charms. Even though it was an impulsive action Ladybug used her lucky charm and took down their enemy, maybe she could set things right.
"Miraculous Ladybug!" Ladybug throws the wristbands into the air.
Nothing seems to have changed. The lights on the Eiffel Tower still aren't lit.
"I don't understand. What you did to the tower should have been fixed when I threw the wristbands into the air," Ladybug puzzles.
Lemore removes his hand to reveal his swollen, red eye. His face angry for once.
"You think we're the only ones that want to take you down Ladybug? You have more enemies than you know. That's who messed with the tower. I only showed them how," Lemore rants.
The heroes are left speechless. Lemore puts his sword away before leaping away. Ladybug and Cat Noir are too stunned to follow. The two find the head engineer.
"Did you see anyone suspicious around here today?" Cat asks.
The head engineer thinks for a moment.
"Not that I recall," the head engineer doesn't remember.
Of course he wouldn't suspect the person behind the destruction. There was nothing suspicious about their appearance. Ladybug nods.
"How long until you can get the lights to work?" Ladybug wonders.
The man sighs heavily.
"Unfortunately there was a lot of damage done. Beyond the lights for the show. The Eiffel Tower's usual lights will be down for a while as well," he discloses.
"How long?" Ladybug is taken back.
"Weeks, maybe months. We'll do all we can," the head engineer promises. "I should really get back to work now."
The heroes walk away numbly. A screen lights up with Nadia's saddened face.
"Even with our heroes' efforts, it looks like the Eiffel Tower's lights will be down until further notice," Nadia informs.
The crowds become sad and angry. The rest of the lights light up as planned, but without the Eiffel Tower, the festival isn't as exciting.
Marinette sits on her bed, looking out her window. How could she let this happen? The Menaces have once again outsmarted them. Her phone rings. It's Adrien. She groans, not in the mood to talk to him, but she knows he'll keep calling until she answers.
"Hello?"
"You better not be feeling guilty."
"I can't help it! The Menaces took down our monument. Even if it's for a little while. What is Paris without it's Eiffel Tower?"
"A city full of great people. That will never change. Let the Menaces can take our art and turn the Eiffel Tower's lights off, because they can't take our people, our city."
Marinette smiles.
"You're right."
"I'm always right."
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves," Marinette giggles. "Thank you Adrien. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Same Sunflower. As long as we're still standing strong, we'll take down the Menaces."
"Aren't you worried about who this person is that helped them?"
"Worried? Not really. Curious? I guess it's in my nature. We'll find them too."
Marinette nods, even though Adrien can't see it. The two continue to talk for a while about simpler things. What's to come in the following week and such. It's a nice distraction, better than thinking about the problems they'll be facing. They would never imagine though that this mysterious person helping the Menaces could be their downfall.
Thanks to everyone for reading! Few things to go over… I made up the head engineer's name at the power plant (which is a real power plant btw). Researching about power plants in Paris was so fun (not really). Not totally sure that plant directs electricity to Paris, but it's a good enough guess. You might have noticed I didn't name everyone on the student council, that's because there's so many people and they not come up again. But I liked naming a few.
And lastly, for the question of the day. Part 1) who is helping the Menaces? There was a some clue in the chapter (might be hard to figure out), but maybe you can guess who without it. First person to guess who, using the clue as support, will have a chapter dedicated to them. Part 2) What is everyone doing for Halloween? Is there anything we can do with how things are right now? I've never been a huge Halloween fan, but I do love candy. Probably won't do anything Saturday. Just sleep in, stay in my PJs all day, binge Netflix, and eat candy. Seems great to me.