3716 Days
Marinette nervously chewed her lip. Standing there, fiddling with the strap of her purse for some time now, as she watched the happenings on a small screen behind the stage. Felt so utterly nervous.
Almost afraid.
Sabrina on the other hand merely took notes, occasionally commenting on anything, that was said and done during the show, but hardly took notice of the way Marinette felt - which was good!
Though…, nothing exciting has happened just yet:
Nadja had greeted everybody and talked about the topic - giving a brief summary of Ladybug's and Chat Noir's fights in the past against Hawk Moth and Mayura - mostly statistics and important dates and events. Talking about these few Akumas during those few days, since Lady Titalee has taken over with her reign of terror. Footage was played - amateurish movies and shots, taken with phones and cameras by bystanders and civilians. Nothing too spectacular - especially for the young woman, who thought in the middle of these fights - but it perfectly highlighted the moderator's words.
Shortly after she introduced the guests.
There was cheering.
And suspenseful silence, when she said Adrien's name.
He merely smiled at the camera. Perfectly - like the model he had used to be, but his eyes told the truth. He was afraid. Nervous, too.
"He is still very confident, isn't he? I wonder, if he did many interviews after…you know~", Sabrina whispered, not seeing the panic slowly emerging within the young man, like she did. "Though I hope they won't give him a hard time - I mean - he is not responsible for anything that happened back then!"
"I hope that as well…", was all Marinette could mumble. And she really hoped for that - for currently that was all, she could do.
… even if she just wanted to run out there on the stage, grab him and hide him from the world and those pesky, judging eyes. To take care of him, until all the hurt and trauma was gone, and he could live a happy, peaceful life, like he wished for.
…and yet this was no fairy tale, but real life…
He didn't deserve that - to be treated by so many as a villain, when he did nothing wrong.
Never…
Heck - he was just a victim of his father's actions as well.
But right now she just couldn't help him. Just wait and hope for the best possible outcome - and watch, as that interview took place.
Nadja has turned directly to the mayor - a middle-aged man with black hair and dark eyes. He was popular, true. He cared for the environment, for integration of refugees and immigrants in the society. For a better education. He was a family man and even Marinette has voted for him a few years ago.
But tonight she didn't like, how he glanced over to Adrien - eyes narrowed for the shortest of moments, but the camera was very able to catch that menacing gaze, before he could have hidden it and it made her gulp, grasp her purse a little more tightly and as if Tikki inside could give her any form of comfort like that.
For now, it seemed to work and Marinette was able to listen to the interview once more:
"-and to sum that poll up - people in Paris are more afraid now, than they were ten years ago, when Hawk Moth attacked our city on a daily basis. Some even tend to be moving, than to stay and wait, until all is over. Twenty percent of those were your voters and its assumed, that the number will increase with every akuma attack. Of course everybody is asking what you as our mayor wants to do against that?"
The camera switched from Nadja to the mayor, who smiled brightly as the politician that he was, before he raised his voice to answer.
"An excellent question, Madame Chamack…" - Urgh - "And I understand, that many fear those villains and akumas and their attacks. Of course I could tell you, that - like everybody else - I highly hope, that Ladybug and Chat Noir will stop her, before this week is over. Yet reality shows, that they won't be everywhere at once. Not saving everybody. We need to think about other solutions and we are currently working on a plan to keep everybody save - perhaps stop the phantom, that is this Lady Titalee on our own…"
"A plan? Is there already precise information about that?"
"Well - of course. More police on the streets, patrolling day and night. More controls where possible and especially at crowded places. I would even recommend a nightly curfew…"
People in the audience mumbled.
"Chloé does not like him one bit…", Sabrina whispered beside her. "He had more votes than her father in the last election. Also, she heard about the curfew before and you can imagine, that she wasn't very happy about that…"
Of course and-
"This is ridiculous!"
…and of course Chloé just had to say something about it - it had merely been a matter of time.
"You can't lock people away! It's a limitation of their rights and-"
"Well - not everybody lives such a spectacular night-life, like you do, Mademoiselle Bourgeois-"
And apparently this antipathy was mutual.
Chloé frowned and raised her nose a little higher.
"Police, controls and curfews won't stop Lady Titalee and her Akumas. It's highly known, that these black butterflies can also akumatize somebody inside. Ladybug and Chat Noir-" "Who have done nothing so far!" "-will once more defeat that villain. They have started to recruit other heroes, again! That is a step into the right direction…"
The Mayor snorted, but it was Nadja, who started to speak once more, stepping in, before the mayor could have uttered something inexcusable:
"That is true, though very little is known about these two other heroes - Viperion and Carapace. But we know, that you used to fight by Ladybug's and Chat Noir's side as well - as Queen Bee, as most of us - fondly - remember. Did you plan to do that once more? Have Ladybug and Chat Noir stepped up to ask you to fight by their side, again?"
"They haven't done that yet, but of course - I am only waiting for Ladybug's proposal! I am still the best Queen Bee around and every other choice would be just utterly ridiculous!"
Marinette rolled her eyes upon hearing the words of the blond. Groaning- for everybody knew, that Chloé's time as a hero was long over and there was certainly no reason or way for Ladybug to recruit her as Queen Bee once more.
…though her wish to be one was still there - after all these years.
"Wouldn't she be the most beautiful Queen Bee?"
Marinette eyed the red haired woman by her side. Raised her eyebrows and pressed her lips into a thin line - unsure, what to answer about that.
"Beauty surely doesn't matter here, right?", she yet mumbled and glanced over to Sabrina with a small pout on her lips.
"But her powers were wonderful~"
"Sabrina, really-"
But Sabrina hushed her with a finger on her lips, for it was the blonde woman, who started to talk once more:
"Any addition to Ladybug's team of superheroes is a good one - it's surely better, than to fight alone…"
Okay- those were smart words, though Chloé underestimated Ladybug's fear to endanger anybody around - those who wear the magical jewelry as well. Especially those - for they were always her friends. And Lady Titalee surely knew, that she would hurt Marinette most, if she hurt them - she just couldn't let that happen…
"And those words come from that one woman, who is responsible for most akumatizations in the past".
A deep murmur echoed through the audience, like a wave - ready to drown every other sound around. But other than that they stayed quiet, waiting for the next confrontation to come.
The camera cut back to Chloé - her face turning red with anger and she narrowed her eyes at the mayor, before she swung her hair over her shoulder and crossed her arms in front of her chest.
It took Nadja a moment to find her voice, again. Cleared her throat. And smiled on screen.
"True, few things are forgotten about, even when Hawk Moth's last attack is dated back ten years and a little over two months" Ten years, two months, 5 days and almost 19 hours. They fought him and Mayura until midnight and she as Ladybug had to stay until two in the morning at the Agreste Mansion, waiting for the police to come and seize them, putting an end to it all. "Caught and demasked by our unstoppable hero duo. Most of us remember those attacks. Yet one man still has to live with that very legacy, that his own father left behind. Adrien Agreste - son of Gabriel and Emilie. Former model and teen crush.
You returned to Paris just recently, am I correct?"
"That's true…"
Adrien - handsome, gorgeous Adrien smiled in Nadja's direction. An honest smile. Warm. Ready - though nervous- to tell his side of the story. To stop rumors and break the last connection to his father, if needed.
Marinette had to hold her breath - anxious for anything that was yet to come and just wished, that she could reach out for his big hands, that could hold hers so perfectly and to keep both adults from shaking.
…but s was out of reach for him.
"What happened that night, when Ladybug and Chat Noir demasked your father - showing his face to the world. It surely was quite traumatizing to a boy, who hasn't turned 16 years, yet…"
Marinette congratulated Nadja in her mind for these words - for it reminded the world of Adrien's age back then. That he was just a boy and that he did nothing to deserve all that hate and fear.
"3716 days and - I believe- 19 hours ago…"
Marinette blinked, amazed, that Adrien knew something like that as well. Though… of course - he had a reason to count all these days since his life has turned upside down.
"Wow! You remember that pretty well, don't you?"
He nodded, eyes cast to the floor and he gulped.
Marinette saw this darkness returning to his eyes - a shadow, that dared to cling to his heart, whenever he - most accidentally dared to open up about his feelings and all these emotions inside. Always so perfectly hidden away by a gorgeous, smiling mask. Keeping the world outside, the demons locked away within his soul.
…little did she wonder if anybody else could see it - read him - like she did.
"I…I often repeat that. It's like a stupid habit. I mean - my whole shattered within a matter of seconds… Gabriel standing there, as Ladybug pulled the brooch off his chest and he… just turned to the man, I called my father." His own eyes widened, realizing something, while Marinette cocked her head at these exact words - for the young man wasn't there, when it happened. Only her and Chat Noir. "I mean - that's how I imagined it! I wasn't actually there! I just arrived a little later, when the police was already there and-"
"Where have you been that night? Before that reveal?"
"Jagged Stone concert…"
Marinette remembered it too vividly. She was there with Luka and Adrien with Kagami. Alya, Nino, Rose, Juleka and - heck - almost there whole class was there! Having fun, singing to those incredible songs, enjoying their time, until all turned dark. The lights turned off, the music stopped.
…and Hawk Moth was there. Mayura, too.
Their ultimate plan, as Gabriel has later named it at court.
Screaming.
Panic.
Chaos.
She had lost sight of her friends. Alya, Nino. Luka. Kagami and Adrien… Everybody - storming away to hide in a staff room she thankfully found soon enough.
Transformed.
Fought.
Chat Noir was there as well. So fast - as if he had been at the concert as well. Maybe he had been - and she had just never asked - and maybe she should do that, when they meet next time…
But they fought together so perfectly nonetheless. Driving Hawk Moth and Mayura away from the people - until they fleet towards the Mansion.
But followed closely by the heroes.
And then they - she - was able to get a hold on the brooch.
And there he was - Gabriel Agreste…
Gosh- Chat Noir certainly was more shocked about reveal, than she could have ever been - his eyes and gasp were still haunting her to that day…
And then… then he was gone so fast - asked her if she could wait alone for the police - begged for her to understand, that he needed to go.
…that he would explain one day…
But she has never asked - accepted it without a question and would always do the same…
And little did it dawn to her - wondering, if Chat's pain found its reason within the mansion in him having to abandon her in such a hurry. Because he was never there for the very end and until the police came to take them both…
But… was it too rude, if she asked him that? And what would her kitty's answer be anyway - before he would swear to never abandon her, again.
Words, which she - of course- would believe and a promise she would not doubt.
Marinette didn't know, how long she had lost contact to the reality around her once more, but by the time she started to focus once more, she could hear Adrien's soft voice yet again, as he gave small details to the happenings on that very day - 3716 days ago:
"My bodyguard drove me home before the concert was over. After the fight and when Ladybug had used her Lucky Charm. I… Couldn't even bid my friends and girlfriend goodbye. I-I was just… It almost felt like I knew, that something bad was awaiting me… And - yeah - the police was there. Ladybug was still there… She… had so much sympathy for me - heck - even for Gabriel and Nathalie she still had some sympathy left and that is pretty amazing, if you come to believe, how these two made everybody's lives shitty - especially hers!… and Chat Noir's…"
She had later told everybody, that she had run away, just when the fight started. Too far. Was almost home and thought, it was the safest place to stay, until all was over. They have bought her lie. Like always…
For they couldn't know, that she had waited for the police, when Chat had to leave. That she had to witness, how Adrien almost collapsed, when he found the truth at home. That she as Ladybug could only hug him, her heart breaking in a billion pieces, while he could only stare, as police brought Nathalie and Gabriel to their cars.
And her friends couldn't know, that she cried for many hours at home that night and until the early morning, for even back than she knew, that nothing would ever be the same.
…especially not for Adrien…
"Family Bourgeois took me in. Cared for me-" Wait… Marinette didn't know that. Has never asked. Has never thought…
She saw, how Chloé laid a caring hand on Adrien's arm, who was sitting beside her.
And Marinette gulped. Felt bad, for always seeing the worst in the blonde woman. After all - she and Adrien used to be friends. Maybe still would be, if they had stayed in touch.
…and… apparently she would need to accept that. If Adrien still liked Chloé, than she would not say a thing about that. Especially after the information she had just heard about the other woman.
…being there for Adrien, when everybody else has turned away.
"-and so I started to travel and returned to Paris only a few weeks, ago… My doctor suggested it to me - you know - told me just to get out there. Discover myself. Experience freedom. Be happy… I mean - I journeyed a lot. That is true. But I also worked wherever I went for my money - I started that whole trip with the money I had left in my wallet and a backpack with my most treasured belongings and a bunch of clothes. I met a lot of people, slept on a lot of couches and sofas - and, yeah - I even had a girlfriend for some time, who didn't know me and where I actually came from.
And… yeah… have tried to be so many people, tried to do so many things – I have been a waiter, a builder, a newsboy, a cashier. As well as a friend. Boyfriend… and more. But yet in all these times I had to learn, how I can be my truest self. And that had been years the hardest journey of all…"
Oh Adrien… hopefully now all these people could see the wonderful man inside! People just had to find sympathy for him that way! There was no way anybody could ever accuse him for the terror his father brought to Paris, right?
"Quite a busy and adventurous life you had there. It truly sounds as if you were quite successful at finding yourself. Wise words of your doctor…" Nadja smiled and took a deep breath, before she voiced the next question: "And, just to clarify - you took therapy sessions? While you still were in London with your aunt?"
"For almost five years. Always on Mondays. I paid for them, though it was my aunt, who suggested it in the first place. You see - for about a year I couldn't move on. Stayed in my room- my grades were absolutely miserable! I felt guilty, for I have always asked myself if I could have stopped him at any time. If anything I have done as a child turned him to the dark side in the first place. If…if I wasn't good enough. If I didn't practice too hard. If I just wasn't a good boy all along… I mean - the relationship with my father was never peachy! I ate alone. I had to stay in my room. Needed to practice piano, fencing and Chinese and I had to be at the top of my class at all times. Yet he had rather preferred to stay in his office. Barely showed affection or anything like fatherly love. I wouldn't talk to anybody about it. Though… I certainly didn't know, how I should have done that." He smiled sadly, raised his shoulders in a tired manner and murmured: "Jane Austin herself said: 'And sometimes I have kept my feelings to myself, because I could find no language to describe them in'. And that is true. I would say, that my therapist had enough to work on with me."
Jane Austin…?
What a strange coincidence - Chat Noir had said the exact same thing the night before. The same quote. She knew, that Adrien was incredibly smart and had surely read his fair share of classical novels. Chat Noir on the other hand… though her partner had said it himself, that he liked classics as well.
Maybe this was just her fault and she should read more classic literature in the future as well to keep up with the two blond man…
Marinette shook her head, coming back to reality, listening to anything, that Nadja said about therapy and showed sympathy for the young man - though she was cut short, when somebody else dared to raise their voice:
"Good thing, that a rich kid can afford good therapy~", murmured somebody to Adrien's left and the camera showed the face of an elderly man, who growled angrily at the blond man. His voice was deep and full of sarcasm. "The normal folks can't afford the good doctors to sleep peacefully night~"
"Monsieur-", Nadja tried to calm him, but he snorted and raised his voice, again:
"For ten years I wake at most nights, because I am plagued by fear and guilt- all because your dearest father had issues and tried to solve them by terrorizing the city! And now you dare to come here - sit amongst the victims and smile that fake model smile of yours? How dare you!"
A few people in the audience applauded to that - agreeing with the words, that the old man has said.
"I worked for almost 45 years and can't afford that super fancy therapy of yours! And I am not the only one!"
Adrien looked defeated.
"But… I thought there were funds. Organizations to help those, who live with the aftermath and trauma of Akumatizations…"
"Those are just pretty words and numbers…", answered the remaining guest on the stage - a woman, maybe a little older than Adrien. She was a bit calmer about the whole ordeal and faced Adrien bravely, even though she was a victim herself. "There aren't enough psychologist for every trauma patient out there. Not enough money. Many volunteers quit due to personal reasons…"
"One thing, I promise to change in my next legislative period!", added the mayor hurriedly.
"Not… enough money?", Adrien asked. Astonishment and irritation written all over his face. Thinking. Facing the mayor now. "Gabriel's accounts are still there - fortune, that I am supposed to inherit. But I never laid a finger on one cent of his money!" All his personal money was his own - earned during his time as a model, Marinette knew that. "Then I'll spend it to the funds. The last cent. Everything. It's the least, I can do - he can do, for everything he did in the past."
"Uff…", came it from Sabrina, speechless about the things, everybody has just witnessed.
Marinette was speechless as well - amazed, that he did something like that without thinking twice. For Adrien it was the right thing to do and was a good course.
Gabriel's fortune would be spent well - and the famous ex-designer would see it the same way.
"Pah! Too late!", came it yet from the old man once more. "Where was that money ten years ago? All that dirty, dirty money? Spend well on your luxury and travels!"
"As I said before - I never laid a hand on his m-"
"But you sit here - still better situated, than most of us!", he spit back and it was Chloé, who jumped from her seat:
"You are ridiculous! You can't blame Adrien on anything and rather blame yourself for getting akumatized in the first place!"
Gasps in the audience. Sabrina clasped her hand over her lips. And Marinette just stood there, as the chaos unfolded:
The mayor shouted something back at Chloé, who in return made a rude gesture - the camera caught it perfectly. The old man started to insult Adrien even more, while the blond man merely tried to excuse every damn thing he ever did in his life. The other woman prayed. Arguments and insults flew left and right- even the audience started to get loud. People standing, ready to get on the stage as well.
And poor Nadja Chamack stood in the middle of it. First trying to keep everybody quiet. Then desperately trying to communicate with the producers - for them to immediately cut to a break. But nothing helped.
…nothing would…
Marinette could only see the black butterfly, as it flew across the screen - getting hold on her earpiece, that tangled over her shoulder.
"No!"
Nadja immediately transformed. Akumatized. Giving in to anything, that Lady Titalee promised her.
And everything turned silent.
People starring.
Realizing.
Reacted in utter panic, as Prime Queen stood right in front of them.
As she laughed people started to get up.
Run.
Hide.
"Sabrina, we need to hide as well!", Marinette exclaimed, remembering Prime Queen's powers too well. Though… Lady Titalee has surely given her an update - she wouldn't make it too easy for Ladybug. "Now!"
Sabrina nodded, grasping tightly on her phone. Running, to get away - as she was told.
Marinette turned as well - though she glanced one more time at the screen in front of her - with the camera men gone the frame was stuck in one position. The stage, which was empty by now and only Prime Queen left behind, declaring her demand for the Miraculous to the world.
The young woman needed to know, where Adrien was hiding - needed him above all people to be safe. And he would be - once Ladybug has fought her and purified the Akuma, setting it free once more.
For a brief moment she was utterly thankful, that she had hidden her backpack at home - underneath her bed and inside a shoebox and that she didn't need to take care about that one as well…
So… Hiding…
She needed the perfect hiding spot - seeing the security cameras she knew, that it would be hard to do so. Even harder with all these people around, trying to do the same and the screams and shouts, the hectic movements around her made it hard to focus. And-
Somebody grasped her hand. Tightly, pulling at her, until she stopped walking. Turning around she saw a set of green eyes and she let out a breath, she didn't know, she was holding.
"Marinette! There you are! Are you alright?"
Adrien's eyes flew over her face and body in unknown hurry, to make sure, that she was unharmed in any way. Brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear, a hand lingering on her cheek. Looking worried. Perhaps even afraid.
"I am good. You?"
He opened his lips, ready to answer something - but a crashing sound from the stage stopped and silenced him. Another crash and Prime Queen had teleported herself behind the stage - through the screen, that Sabrina and her had used to watch the interview.
More shouts.
Utter panic.
Adrien reacted fast - he turned, guiding her away.
The young woman could only follow - stunned by everything, that has happened. Glad, that she found Adrien and happy, that he was well.
But she started to panic at the thought, that she wouldn't be able, to transform anytime soon. With him there - and Adrien would surely not leave her side, fearing, that she would get harmed in any way.
They needed to get separated somehow- which was quite the ironic thought, now, that they wanted to be together more than anything else.
He guided her down the hallway. Past the make-up room. The dressing rooms. Staff rooms. Over to the lift - seeing, how people tried to get inside the moving chamber to get away.
He groaned at that, looked over his shoulder - to make sure, that she was well. Then both looked over to Prime Queen instead, who was at the end of the hallway.
The villainess raised her hand, laughed, as she caught one of the producers, who wasn't fast enough. Touching him. Stopping him - his head turning to a TV and the poor man looked like an abstract illustration.
Standing there, not moving.
Marinette immediately remembered the last time she and Chat Noir have thought Prime Queen - a nemesis, able to teleport through screens. Or broadcasting anything, she wanted to show to the world.
…so… when she had more screens she had a better possibility to move from one place to the other…
Both gulped and Adrien looked back to Marinette - both nodding and silently agreeing to take the stairs, while Prime Queen started to get closer with ease and in hurry.
Running past the lift and to the white door. Reading the sign to find the staircase.
He pushed the door open. Pulled her through, closed it.
Both looked down the stairs - with them being on the tenth floor. Up - with 5 floors left, until they would reach the rooftop.
"Down…", they agreed, knowing, that it was saver to escape, than to stay in the same building as the villainess.
Adrien smirked, offering her his hand once more.
"Need me to carry you?"
She smiled. Had to - hearing his flirting words during such a serious situation.
"My feet are perfectly fine, thank you!"
They ran down the stairs. Hand in hand. One floor after the other.
Nobody following them just yet.
It felt so easy.
…too easy.
For when they reached the lowest floor, wanting to burst through the door, the young man merely crashed into it. Letting out a painful groan. Holding his shoulder, before he tried to open it once more - but it wasn't even budging.
"Fuck!", he yelled. "They probably blocked the door to keep her out! We need to-"
"Your shoulder, let me check-"
"The pain will go away in a minute, Marinette…"
He turned, taking both her hands, holding her fingers tightly and smiled. She stared at him wide eyes - afraid, that he had actually hurt himself.
Though right now they had another problem- they were stuck.
So either they could try at another floor - hoping that at least one door wasn't blocked for them - or-
She gulped heavily, seeing those wonderful green eyes in front of her. So full of warmth and hope, setting this very chaotic world to a state of peacefulness.
…Just for a few, valuable seconds.
Marinette knew - the day would eventually come for her. To reveal Adrien her secret identity. Knowing, that it was impossible to hide it from him forever, if they moved forward.
…if she wanted be to Adrien's girlfriend…
And she wanted to be exactly that.
So they might be stuck. But Ladybug could easily break through the door - could easily save him and then stop Prime Queen. Maybe Chat Noir was already waiting for her and she just didn't know…
"Adrien…", she therefore bravely declared, just before she took a quick glance around, to look for any security cameras, but for now came up empty-handed. Then she turned back to him. "There is something, I need to tell you…"
He chuckled nervously.
"Maybe you should wait, until Prime Queen was defeated…"
"But it is most important, that-"
A crash from upstairs. Loud and ear-piercing.
A door falling down the staircase in incredible speed - not far away from them and Adrien immediately blocked her with his body. Both looking up.
Prime Queen was there.
Ready, to get them as well.
She laughed maniacally, Nadja's friendliness drowned by the powers of the Akuma.
It was Adrien, who acted first - pushing her in the farthest corner, just underneath the lowest staircase. Demanding for her to stay there. To stay quiet - he would take care of Prime Queen himself.
He stood by to last step, looking up so bravely and full of determination, that it made Marinette shudder.
"You want me, right? Because I basically busted the interview with my sheer presence! Wasn't the chance of your life?"
Then he basically flew up the stairs. Second floor, while Prime Queen's pinkish eyes followed him. Hollering at the blond man. Bouncing. Jumping down a floor, then two. Trying to get the man, who made it successfully through the door.
Prime Queen as well - uninterested in the young woman, that was left behind - at least for now.
"Adrien…",
Marinette was paralyzed for a moment, or two.
Not moving, just staring - seeing the opened door above.
Eventually her instincts kicked back in and - to be absolutely sure, that no camera would see her transformation and opened her purse, to see Tikki immediately peeking up at her with shocked, wide eyes.
"Did you intend on revealing yourself to Adrien?", she squeaked.
The young woman huffed.
"What was I supposed to do? He is always there to save me, ready to sacrifice himself, if needed! He is just like-"
Another crash echoed through the building and Marinette flinched - knowing, that Tikki should rather scold her later, than now.
Ladybug was needed here instead!
She transformed, felt the magical power surging through her veins and stepped away from her hiding place. Looking up. Ready to fight.
Easily she made it up the stairs. Through the door of the second floor, stepping through the door.
The hallways were basically empty.
Those people, who were left behind transformed into these nightmarish figures of a human with a head as a TV. Static showing on the screens. The sizzling noise horrifying being very to her.
She sneaked forward - listening to the surrounding quietness. Barely breathing, yo-yo ready in her hands to attack, if needed.
Ladybug peeked around a corner.
But saw nothing.
Moved along.
Stopped.
A door was cracked open behind her.
Steps, most quietly.
She turned around, swinging her yo-yo like lasso over head. Ready to catch the foe in front of her. Ready to fight and bring justice.
Instead, she has caught a pretty ex-model.
Adrien grinned apologetically, unable to move, since his hands were now tied most tightly to his sides.
"Ladybug!", he exclaimed delightfully. "Oh thank goodness! You are here! You made it in time! Not only that, but you probably know, that there is an Akuma attack going on?"
She blinked, still felt tense from all the adrenaline rushing through her body and could only stare at the gorgeous man, who had stolen her heart.
"Ladybug?"
Finally, she snapped - coming back to reality and released him from his boundaries.
"It is dangerous, to sneak around like that!", she reminded him. "Prime Queen could be everywhere. You should have stayed in your hiding place…"
His eyebrows climbed up on his forehead and he blushed. Nervously scratching the back of his head and finally nodded in agreement.
"I am sorry. But the staff room had a camera installed to the wall - and I don't know, if Nadja could use that as well to teleport from on place to the other. Also I need to be sure, that my girl is safe…"
Now her cheeks turned crimson upon hearing that - knowing all too well who he was referring to.
"O-oh - ehr… Marinette? She is pretty safe - I-I suppose! I got her out of here, before I came here", she stammered, turning away from the young man, since it felt impossible to look him in the eyes right now. "She is pretty safe! Believe me!"
"Good…", he exhaled in relief and thankfully he didn't even doubt her other words.
"And now I'll get you away from here as well. Far away!"
"But-"
Ladybug didn't accept a 'but'. Not now! Instead, she instructed that he was supposed to follow - or she would need to swing him over her shoulder to get him out.
He chuckled and blushed lightly, but eventually followed silently and closely behind her.
Back to where she came from - knowing, that it was safest for him, if she got him out of the building. Then she would return.
And then she would fight.
…so…and where was Chat Noir right now?
Ladybug opened her communicator inside her yo-yo. Hoping for Chat to get her message.
True - there was an unknown irony to that - just yesterday they bid goodbye with the promise to meet again, when Lady Titalee wants them to fight. Which wasn't even 24 hours later…
But sadly the signal didn't make it through right now. Chat wasn't transformed, yet. Heck - was he even aware, that there was an Akuma attack going on right now? Was he busy? How? Where? Did he perhaps meet somebody and couldn't transform? Did he meet another girl to drown his pain and regret for the things they did?
Wait no - she immediately stopped her jealousy from rising within her. Knowing all too well, that Chat would never do that!
Yet she gulped and felt her throat tightening. Spoke a little message in the small device in her hand for him to come here, when he heard it.
Fastening her yo-yo once more around her waist and she turned to face Adrien once more.
The man looked utterly worried - that wonderful, shy smile gone and he eyed her yo-yo instead.
"He will come…", she apologized Chat's absence. "He surely needs to find a place, where he can transform himself. But don't worry - Chat never fails me!"
He focused on her face once more and it was him, who gulped. Forcing a smile on his lips.
"You…, you are probably right…"
She hoped that as well.
But she couldn't say a word. Instead, heard a laugh once more - disturbing their conversation. A laugh from their left.
Right.
Behind them.
Prime Queen's laugh.
Her face was broadcasted on each of the humanoid TV screens, standing anywhere on the hallway. Smirking, as she faced the camera.
"Ladybug… It is good to see you finally here! I hope you recall my name…"
"Adrien…", the young heroine yet warningly whispered, grabbing his arm, pulling him past her and pushing him, to get him to move. "Run! Run and hide! Now!"
He hesitated, looking at her with an unknown plea on his lips.
But he moved, when a portal opened on one of the TV's behind Ladybug. Seeing Prime Queen step right through it. Grinning. Stepping closer, to casually approach the other woman.
Yet Ladybug didn't even have the time to reach for her yo-yo. Was attacked. She could barely defend the punch, that the villainess launched at her. Backflipped, as another followed. Getting closer, to hit her instead - a well-aimed punch, directly into her face. Launching Prime Queen across the hallway. Letting her fall. Slither, across the floor.
Prime Queen giggled.
The villainess snapped fingers and she was gone - pulled through the screen, that was closest to her - returning through the one, that was right beside Ladybug. Kicking her back and the young woman tumbled to the floor herself.
Cursing under her breath, getting up to-
But Prime Queen was gone once more, sucked through a screen and the chance was immensely high, that she would return through any of them to attack her yet again.
And she did - launching herself through a screen to her left. Then to her right. The one farthest away. That one, that was closest. Punching Ladybug left and right. Letting her go down too easily.
Down to the floor.
But she wouldn't - needed to keep fighting!
Ladybug braced herself for the next attack. Ready to parry it and attack back.
But the next hit never came. Or the one after that. For a black shadow had stepped in front of her - staff held high and emerald eyes gleaming with furry.
"Chat!", she yelled, her heart speeding up at the thought, that he has made it in time.
For her…
-Ehr - of course for the people, that needed to be saved!
…urgh… she really needed to get him out of her mind and heart…
Prime Queen stepped away from her hand-to-hand scuffle she had started with Chat. Retreating through one of the TV's.
For now and silence cast over the two heroes…
Heavily breathing the cat hero turned around, bowing, to lend his Lady a hand. To help her back to his feet, smiling charmingly down at her and bowed in front of heroine the most charming way.
"It's always a pleasure to be at your service! I am very ready to lend you a hand, if you need one~"
She blushed and tore her hand from his. Gulping, as she remembered these words - a phrase he had said to Marinette so easily, before he had done exactly that - letting his own hands wander all over her body to give her pleasure.
"I am glad, that you came!", she yet hurriedly said, unable to look him in the eyes, after he had said exactly that. And started to walk, down the hallway and back to the staircase, before he had the chance to question her strange behavior. "Prime Queen is back after…an interview gone wrong. She can turn people into-" She pointed at one of the TV faced humans "These! And she can teleport with those from one place to the other…"
"Urgh…creepy! And how utterly metamorphic- the thing TV does to people minds…"
"We are not here to get philosophical, Chat!"
"Alright, alright… Now, tell me - do you have a plan to fight her?"
They ran up the stairs most easily. Further up, back to the tenth floor. Ladybug just sensed, that that was the right way to go - to get back on stage, where everything has started.
"Prime Queen is Nadja Chamack. She was interviewing a few people on Hawk Moth and Lady Titalee. It was live on TV… Perhaps you have heard about it being broadcasted today?"
"So?"
She stopped, briefly turning towards her partner, but rather looked to a spot behind him, than into his eyes.
"I believe she would want to finish the interview…"
"So you have a plan? Good! Where is the Akuma? Do you know that one as well?"
Well… kind of - remembered the earpiece quickly.
So - all they needed now was a plan!
But first she called for her Lucky Charm - a dotted mask, just like hers and it made her smile - knowing now exactly, what she had to do. And for that they would need a little distraction.
…or help - depending on how things were viewed.
"Just move along. I know what to do…"
They moved through the door, inside the once more silent corridor. Past the lift - which was filled with people.
All their heads were TV screens, showing nothing but static.
Until the channel seemed to change. All at once - showing the stage, where the interview was previously held once more. Yet no audience was there - though it was hard to tell, since these seats were all cast in darkness and shadows. It made the whole atmosphere even more creepy and unnatural…
And the guests - those Prime Queen could catch - were tied to their chairs with power cords. Struggling, in hopes, to get free. Shouting. Pleading.
Three of them - the mayor, the old man and the other woman. Adrien and Chloé were missing…
Prime Queen stood behind them, facing the camera with a mad smile, as she gleefully announced:
"Dear people of Paris! We are not over with the interview just yet… Sadly, two of our guests are already gone, but we are still waiting for our special guests tonight! Ladybug and Chat Noir- who are very ready to get demasked tonight!"
"That is utterly ridiculous!", somebody on cue shouted behind them - the blond woman stomping right in their direction. All alone and without a sign of her assistant and friend. Furious and dishelved, though. "I waited for you two for the longest time to come and save me! Urgh! I am all alone! Sabrina and my bodyguard were turned into these TV zombies and I have lost my phone! And I was stuck for about half an hour on that stinky toilet as a hiding place! Now… get me out! Now!"
So… what was it again with that distraction she has planned.
Chat had wanted to approach Chloé first, ready to apologize and ready to get her out - but Ladybug stepped between them, raising the dotted mask up for Chloé to see.
"Chloé Bourgeois - actually I am glad, that you are here…", she sweetly said, knowing all too well about Chloé's wish to be a hero once more - and to be loved as such. "We need your help!"
"We do?", Chat mumbled behind her in confusion.
Chloé's eyebrows on the other hand climbed on her forehead. And she crossed her arms, raised her nose even higher and huffed. Even stomped her feet.
"Your demand is a little too late, Ladybug! I can still remember, how you let me down!"
Well…, that wasn't, how it has happened - the young heroine couldn't even finish her own thought, as her earrings started to beep loudly, reminding them to do just something.
"I know…" She therefore remorsefully said and shook her head, raising the mask a little more. Giving in was the only option to get Chloé to help right now and time was slowly running out, so they needed to do just something!
Also - they would need her for the plan, she has just hatched.
'People rather forget, than forgive…', was the one thing, Nadja has said to Adrien before the interview. And it was true - right now very fitting.
"And I know this isn't the Bee Miraculous, you might be looking for. But… I still hope, that you be of help to save Paris with us… So?"
Chloé blew some air sharply through her nostrils. Rolled her eyes. Pouted her lips.
…finally groaned, as she took the mask with dainty fingers.
"But only this one time!", she said with a stern, raised finger. "And make sure the camera catches my pretty face! So - what am I supposed to do with that thing? Wear it? That is utterly ridiculous if you would ever believe, that I would play along with that!"
But eventually she did - even agreed to put her hair up in a ponytail, just like Ladybug wore it nowadays.
Then they separated, after hurriedly talking about the things, that needed to be done and said to defeat the villainess.
Chat would approach her from the ceiling. Ladybug would come from the back of the stage. And Chloé would distract Prime Queen as the dotted heroine for as long as possible.
Ladybug sneaked away- back to where she had previously come from. Focused on any attack, that was yet to come. Listening to the surrounding sounds.
Eventually she stopped, waited in the shadow and saw Prime Queen on the stage, as she circled her prisoners, talking on and on about Ladybug's and Chat Noir's eventual defeat.
But suddenly the akumatized woman stopped. Facing the audience room with narrowed eyes - sensing movement in the darkness.
Smirking.
"Ahhhhh~ Ladybug! You made it in time! So tell me - where is your little kitty cat? Oh Chat Noir! Come out and play~"
But he didn't come, stayed hidden as planned.
"He left!", Chloé said - giving Prime Queen a horrible imitation of the dotted heroine, that made Ladybug cringe. "He gave me his Miraculous, knowing, that our time as heroes is over! You defeated us!"
Prime Queen giggled once more upon hearing that. Facing the camera to her left, as she spoke:
"Finally! The moment the whole world is waiting for! The reveal of Paris' favorite heroine live on TV!"
And she turned back, stepping to the very edge of the stage to extend her hand for the young woman.
"Now come here, Ladybug. Let the world see your pretty little face~"
And Chloé did, as she was told, coming close, laying her hand into Prime Queen's waiting one, who immediately pulled her to the stage.
Ready to demask her.
…and to get those lovely earrings as well…
Paralyzed, as she realized, that this was a trap, she had stepped right into.
Ladybug used that very short moment of shock - her yo-yo flying across the stage and to capture the villainess. Wrapping easily around arms, body and legs. Trapping her.
Chat Noir came flying from above - hand glowing in black, destructive light, as he took the earpiece from Prime Queen.
To destroy it.
The black butterfly wanted to get away- but Ladybug was already there.
Purified it most easily and like so many times before.
People were set free from their spell - heads turning back to normal. The guests were freed from the power chords. And Nadja Chamack turned back, weakly collapsing - and it was Chloé, who barely caught her in her arms.
Good - at least for once things went quite smoothly…
"Pound it?", Chat asked beside her, seeing everybody around them trying to orientate and to understand, what just has happened.
Ladybug blinked at him, irritated at first - but she eventually raised her hand and their fists meet.
She smiled at that and he chuckled.
"We haven't done that in the longest time…", he mumbled. "First time ever, since I have come back, if I recall correctly…"
She nodded.
"There wasn't time for that before…"
"True… So? I guess there are a few things we need to talk about…" He nodded his head in Chloé's direction. "And… perhaps…you have found something… yesterday?"
"Chat…not-"
Her earrings beeped.
Of course- she needed to keep going, if she didn't want to actually get demasked in front of TV.
Heck - were those cameras still on?
"We will meet tonight, Eiffel Tower?"
He hesitated.
Gulped.
And nodded.
She was gone before anybody around her could have acted and turned towards them, to ask her any questions. About Lady Titalee and Akumas and anything in-between. She wouldn't be able to answer them, for she didn't have any answers herself…
The dotted heroine barely made it to the first floor and hid inside a bathroom stall, before she turned back to her civilian self.
Feeling breathless.
Tiered.
The fight - although it hadn't been the hardest one in recent days and strained all her energy.
Though - that was her normal life right now, and it would only change, once they defeated Lady Titalee…
A quiet sigh escaped her lips and she looked at Tikki, who merely looked up with a soft smile on her small lips.
"So… Didn't you want to scold me?", Marinette whispered tiredly and gently caressed the head of the small goddess with one finger. "Mhm?"
"I think what you did there for Chloé was very good…"
"For Chloé? I asked her to help us! How-"
"And yet you know, that was the right thing to do… You will see - this kindness will be paid back in the future!"
Marinette shook her head, but giggled.
"Another one of your ancient riddles?"
"No - just basic human understanding. But we both know, that is true!"
Yeah… maybe if those humans were somebody else than Chloé Bourgeois - this woman surely would never be redeemed!
And yet… she has helped Ladybug and Chat Noir today - even endangering herself with that…
"Okay…", was all Marinette could currently say - too tired to argue anyway…
Carefully she placed the small entity back in her purse, where she would find a wrapped cookie to refuel her energy.
Then she stepped out of the stall, didn't even check for her looks. Walking to the lift, to get back to the tenth floor to find Adrien.
…to get home…
But this place was currently crowded. People were basically everywhere. Still scared and endlessly confused. Tried to get home themselves, or to get answers.
She pressed through the crowds, that have formed. Nobody cared about her. Nobody even looked at her. Nobody stopped her.
She saw Adrien on the stage. He calmly talked with Nadja. The mayor stood close by and listened.
A little farther away stood Chloé - Sabrina taking photos of her with the phone she had smuggled inside. Marinette could only guess, that those would later appear on one of Chloé's social media pages. To get showered with affection. Maybe even for her bravery- praised, that she actually helped the two heroes to defeat Prime Queen.
And for once the young woman didn't mind that…
Apart from them the stage felt strangely empty. The spotlights were out and a careful glance over to the camera showed, that they were currently not on.
So… The show was over…
Thankfully…
Therefore, Marinette bravely made it over to Adrien. He noticed her right away - immediately ending the conversation. To meet Marinette in the middle of her way. Embracing her most tightly, letting out a breath he had held for too long.
"I am glad you made it out, Marinette…", he mumbled in her hair. "Ladybug told me and… I am just- I wouldn't have- Still, are you hurt?"
"No…, don't be silly Adrien- what about your shoulder? You hurt it pretty badly, right?"
"It's nothing!", he mumbled and shrugged. "Maybe a little bruise, but that is all- just tell me, that you are okay…"
She looked up in his face. Felt breathless, as she saw all that horrible sorrow dancing in his eyes.
And nodded - to hopefully calm him down a little…
"You have a brave man by your side, my Dear…", voiced somebody behind them and as they turned, they saw the mayor approaching them. Raising one hand in front of Adrien, waiting for the young man to take it. "And today has at least shown me, that things aren't always as they seem. I believe you - why would a young boy ever cause such terror and destruction? You are nothing, like your father…"
"Thank you, Monsieur…"
"Do you intend to keep your word? Give all of Gabriel's money to the trauma funds?"
Adrien nodded eagerly.
"I'll keep my word. I will talk with the lawyers in the morning… Just…" He nervously eyed the camera, that was closest to him and leaned closer to whisper. "…I just don't want so much publicity about it. I tried my best to stay out of the spotlight for ten years. I just don't want it all to come back to me…"
The older man raised his eyebrows upon hearing that.
"It would clear your name…"
Adrien sighed. Thinking about these words.
And shook his head.
"Money can't clean me from all the debt, Gabriel has left behind. From all the terror and trauma. And I believe many would only see it as a desperate way to raise my popularity - I shouldn't have said it in the first place on camera - rather approached you after the interview. But… raising my popularity is not my goal… but still I thank you. I appreciate your help. I really do…"
The mayor hesitated for a moment and let these words sink in, but eventually nodded. Giving Adrien a fatherly pat on the shoulder and left with a sad smile.
These words broke Marinette's heart a little. Knowing, that Adrien had a rocky road ahead to walk. Immense burdens to carry. A fight to win.
But he would do it - she just knew it.
For he had done the right thing - and all his kindness had to be paid back one day.
And she was very ready to be there for him.
…with him.
She bravely took his hand in hers, knowing it was best, if they started to leave as well. Opening her lips to-
"Urgh - Adrikins, look at you!" So much about finally getting home! Marinette braced herself for the impact, that where Chloé's scolding words and she even felt Adrien tensing up by her side. "All dishelved from that stupid attack! Really - you need a glow-up to get you back to all you glory! I can call my personal hairdresser and stylist, if you want to-"
"Thank you, Chloé. But this is my style now…" And for a mere moment his eyes lingered on their joint hand. "And I am happy that way... Still - I appreciate your help. For everything… And if you really want to stay connected with me - then sure! This time I promise to write you back!"
Chloé wrinkled her nose. Looked over to Marinette, then towards Sabrina, who merely shrugged and back to Adrien.
"Urgh - the things I do for you Adrikins! But you write first and apologize for your long absence! And Dupain-Cheng-", she one last time she turned to Marinette. Raised her finger, ready to yell and curse at her. But then she took a deep breath and let her hand fall back to her side. "Nice earrings - they look vintage!"
And with that the force, that was Chloé Bourgeois was gone - walking across the room to get the last few selfies done.
But the young woman was utterly bewildered, could only stare, while Adrien desperately tried to hide a smirk.
"This was the kindest thing she had ever said to me…"
"Well, people can change, can't they? And even Chloé… well… even she is full surprises…"
"So you don't think, that I did hallucinate that just now?"
He barked a laughter.
"Nope! Absolutely not!"
So - at least now they were one step closer to finally get home! One more time they approached poor Nadja Chamack. Biding her goodbye, hoping, that things would get better in the morning.
Marinette could easily make out the tiredness. The defeat, even the shock and it hurt her - felt so much pity, to eventually embrace the moderator - not minding, what others would think or say.
For it was the right thing to do so.
At least it helped Nadja to put a smile back on her lips - a tiny one. Nodded and left with a quiet pat on Adrien's shoulder, leaving them almost alone on the stage.
They silently agreed to leave as well.
The corridors of the studio building were empty by now. Only a few staff members crossed their path - barely taking notice of them.
Everybody was just so tired of the aftermath of the attack. Everybody just wanted to get their job done. Wanted to go home as well…
Marinette couldn't even blame them - knew exactly what it was like to witness these fights. To witness an attack. A villain or villainess. To be afraid.
…and sometimes to be close to death…
She remembered Adrien's words- those to give all of Gabriel's money to these victim funds and yes - Gabriel's money would be spent well. Hopefully more doctors and therapists would agree to work under these funds - to help those people, who were still fighting with demons, when she and Chat were done. It was a good course and maybe it would help Adrien to move on a little easier.
…and others as well…
They got their phones back without problem. Walked outside, back to an almost empty parking lot.
Only a few cars were there - Adrien's being one of them.
…though - somebody had chosen to give it a little… well… downgrade, as they easily found out as they approached the vehicle.
"What the-?"
They couldn't see the whole damage in the shine of the streetlights - Adrien even had to use the flashlight of his phone to see a little more and Marinette gasped.
For somebody had badly damaged his car, when they were away. Vandalized it, just like people had done to the Agreste Mansion.
Somebody scratched over the black car finish. Multiple times. There were pumps in its sides. Tires were slit - and those were only the things, they could make out at the moment.
"We need to call the police, Adrien!", she said, knowing too well, that not even Ladybug and her Lucky Charm could help him with that.
"No…", he merely mumbled.
"But…Adrien-"
"There is a fifty percent chance, that the police is with me, or against me. And it would only provoke attention. You know - I don't want that…"
"But people can't use you as a punching ball! They have heard your interview! They must know, that you never had any ill intentions!"
He shrugged.
"And we both know, that I probably changed the mind of a small number of people…"
She stared at him, then blinked.
Sadly she knew, that this was true.
…and now basically all of Paris was aware of his face. Knew, that he was walking amongst them.
Remembered, who he was…
And…yeah… there was a high chance, that people working at the police were a few of those, who still scorned him. Hell- they were just as busy as Ladybug to keep people safe, when ever an Akuma attack was happening.
The young woman yet gulped.
"So, what do you want to do then?"
He shrugged.
"Hope, that there is a repair shop close. Call them and get the job done…"
And Karma dared to hit them once more, as the sky above them gave a deep thundering growl. A drop landed on her arm. One on his cheek. "I'll call right away!"
A/N: I thought it would be nice, to re-use one of the show's villains as well! and of course- the interview did not go as smoothly as planned, though for sure there were a few reveals there. A few things about the final fight against Hawk Moth and Mayura (most things I still kept vague and it's for imagination ), a little bit about Chloé's incoming redemption and the almost reveal for Marinette.
I really hope you enjoyed this chapter!
Aaaalso: isn't it insane, that we now finally reached 200k words with this story (without the author notes) ? I am certainly not done yet, but I can officially say now, that it is my longest written fiction, ever:O I know, that I have said it about a billion times before, but I am not getting tired of it:br /Thank you for reading! Everybody of you is amazing to stick by for so freaking long to see thise piece develop. I know it's not perfect and it will never be - I write it for fun still and that is all, that matters to me3 Though I enjoy it just as much to see, that the hits are constantly rising on this fic, that it gets favorites and likes and comments! Let me tell you - everybody of you is amazing and a big part of the path in creating this piece! I bow for you 3
Anyway:Next chapter: Meeting in the Middle...