Beeeep beeeep beeeep beeeep
Click
With a stretch and a yawn to start the day he slowly got up from his bed feeling a minor headache. He looked at his desk full of papers, a book, and some notes written in a notebook. There was a mechanical pencil on the floor which he picked up and placed in the cup with all of his other pencils. He organized his desk and put away unnecessary things plaguing his space. He dusted his hands looking at his handy work. With a nod, he went off to shower but not before opening a cabinet and placing a piece of cheese on the plate above.
"Can't believe you like this stuff." He grimaced and walked away, a blur of black and green devouring the piece as he went inside the bathroom and turned on the shower head.
"You can't appreciate good cheese, Damian." Plagg cackled gobbling up another piece. He could hear his holder make a sound of annoyance. He let out another cackle knowing he was annoying him. He flew around admiring the room of the scion. He's been here for two months and a half and yet he can't seem to get used to how spacious it was. Damian was a total neat freak too. If Plagg so much as touched any of his books he'd automatically know. He should let loose once in a while. Plagg flew up to the computer and turned it on to some tunes on the playlist Damian made the other day. Even as Black Cat he can't stop being a perfectionist. It was a miracle he didn't lead all that much during the Gloomy fight. Plagg sighed and shook his head before slowly bobbing his head to the rhythm of the music. His chosen was still showering but he should be out in a few. Sure enough, a few minutes later he heard the shower head being turned off and the sink being turned on. He continued dancing to the tune while humming along to the lyrics. By the time the song ended Damian left the bathroom with a towel wrapped around his torso and a towel on his head to dry his hair.
Plagg looked at the time. Oh, he took an extra minute this time instead of the five minutes he usually takes. He snickered to himself. What a rebel. He shook his head watching his chosen get dressed neatly. It was almost infuriating how this kid functioned every day. But instead of it being infuriating it was more so sad looking. Plagg had been around for many years so he knew a thing or two about having fun. This kid seemed like he never had fun, it was almost shocking. He was fifteen, the prime of his youth and he was wasting it away, and for what?
Knock knock
"Master Damian?"
Plagg quickly hid behind the monitor.
"Come in."
Jeeves opened the door and entered the room. Damian was dressed in his uniform looking prim and proper like always. Always perfect, nothing out of place. He cleared his throat as he began to read from his clipboard. "For today's schedule right after school, your father expects you to take fencing classes-"
"What?" Damian said in utter shock. "Why?"
Jeeves cleared his throat again. "He thinks you should take up another hobby."
Damian didn't buy that at all but whatever. "Okay." He muttered.
Jeeves continued. "Right after fencing classes, you are to come back home and start piano lessons, right after some free time and then a business dinner with the Blackbell's at seven."
"Again?"
"Again."
Damian grumbled as he got up and started grabbing his backpack. "Okay, I'm leaving."
"Of course Master Damian, let me prepare the car for your departure." With that said Jeeves left.
When the door closed Damian had half a mind to not throw his backpack to the ground in frustration. More activities?? Why does he need them? Why can't he spend time with his friends? Why can't he do normal teen stuff?! He laid back down on his bed feeling an immense weight on his shoulders. Plagg flew from his hiding spot and sat on Damian's chest looking down at him.
"I know what you're feeling kid."
"What?"
"You're stressed out."
"Yeah, no shit."
"But-! Fear not as I, Plagg know how to help you destress." He declared and all Damian could do is roll his eyes. Getting up again he left his room. Plagg hid in his dress shirt like always.
He went outside greeted with Jeeves getting the car ready. Damian didn't say anything as he sat in the car with Jeeves next to him reading tomorrow's schedule because Damian always requested he read the schedule for tomorrow to him during the ride to school. Why? Because it fills the silence of the otherwise silent car as it drives him to Eden High. Nobody but Jeeves ever accompanied him anyway. The rest of the car ride was full of small talk or during the week he got Emile to come to pick him up. Whenever it's Emile, Ewen is there and thus the silence is no more and it's nothing but laughter. He wished it was like that every day but alas.
The car came to a stop in front of the school entrance.
"Have a nice day Master Damian."
"Thank you." He got out of the car and closed the door. He watched as his car drove away until it was no longer visible. He sighed feeling a bit freer now. He stood by and watched a bus pull up, dropping off various students. A familiar mop of pink hair with horns could be seen jumping off the bus with a bright smile. Her green eyes were shining brightly. "Anya!" He waved her over.
"Sy-on boy!" She jumped and hugged him tightly. It seemed like a habit ever since the Gloomy Weather attack. He didn't mind but he wondered if Anya was just that scared for him. He was fine, for the most part. It was a tendency he could see she was doing. It was similar to when Becky, Ewen, and Emile were almost crushed. The former don't even wanna look at a bus sometimes. He gets it, Ladybug and him were almost crushed by one too. He shivered. Damn buses are being thrown everywhere. The aftermath of that attack was disastrous. More disastrous than Stoneheart. The mayor- his father, had to issue a statement. He didn't bother listening to half of that speech. He and Bug can't help that collateral damage always happens, they're trying to protect Berlint for fuck sake!
"How are you this fine morning?" She asked while giggling. They were standing around instead of going inside and waiting for the rest of their group to show up.
Damian shrugged. "I'm doing okay I guess." He didn't feel like talking about his feelings. He never does but a lot of things come out at random times or Ewen and Emile allude to some stuff since they've known him for a long time. Anya and Becky were a bit of an exception when it came to certain topics of his private life. The topic of his father is the one topic he never discussed with anyone, ever. But it was more or less revealed when they went over to his house for a study session the one time he was free for the whole day. Or so he thought anyway. It was mortifying arguing in front of his friends, much less new friends. What was implied was there and Damian couldn't control his feelings that day.
So they more or less knew his father was an asshole. And everything he did was to please him.
"You guess??" Anya tilted her head questioningly. "Wanna talk about it?"
"No."
She hummed and then turned around just in time to see Becky's limo pulling up. "Ah, Becks is here, Becks!!" She called out as Becky's door was opened and she stepped out. The girl ran towards Anya, enveloping her in a hug. They started talking rather quickly about how they were, how their weekend went, and all that stuff Damian didn't quite get.
Luckily Emile's car drove by heading to the parking lot area. Now all that's left is for Ewen to arrive.
"Hey, Desmond," Becky said, getting his attention.
"What?" He raised a brow.
"We're having another fucking business dinner tonight." She stated, feeling nothing but annoyance.
Damian rolled his eyes. "Tell me about it, why do we need to be there?!"
"I know right!!"
Anya watched as the two began to rant about a life she doesn't understand seeing as she's a commoner and her family is very happy being one. "Guys, guys, settle down, and let's talk about something else instead." She suggested, which they didn't mind and thus the topic was changed by the time Emile arrived and Ewen's limo also pulled up.
The five teens walked in not noticing the way everyone around them just stopped and stared at them feeling giddy. Truthfully they were the most popular friend group in all of Eden High. And they either knew or ignored it as they continued walking along and chatting. They sat by a table as they waited for the bell to ring.
Becky got out her phone and presented it to her friends. "And this is what I like to call the Hero Blog!" She grinned widely, showing them a website that was decorated in the hero's signature colors. "Here you can get the latest news on Berlint's heroes Ladybug and Black Cat!" She declared loudly making sure everyone could hear her. All eyes were on her as she showed her friends the new website.
Anya's eyes beamed. "Holy shit Becks, did you make this?!" She grabbed her phone and looked at the website. For a while, she knew Becky was working on a secret project that she didn't want to let Anya in on quite yet as it was supposed to be a surprise. Anya didn't mind although being patient was never her strong suit. Regardless she managed.
Becky shook her head and pointed towards Ewen. "No it was actually Ewen's idea, granted his original ideas were… okay I guess, I merely helped with the design layout and some other ideas and since I'm good with social media I'm doing a lot of promotional stuff." She didn't know a thing about making a website along with all the coding and stuff. But she knew how to do everything else and was happy to provide help and insight.
Ewen crossed his arms and smirked. "And it was a piece of cake!"
"Oh! So that's why you kept pulling all-nighters." Emile said, understanding the bags under Ewen's eyes that he had all last month.
"And I thought you were pulling all-nighters to study," Damian said snickering. Amongst the five the one known to pull all-nighters was him so imagine their surprise to see Ewen of all people sleeping late.
"I was really enthusiastic with the idea and I knew I could do it but Becks knows more about social media and stuff so I got her help and I'm glad she liked the idea. I feel like it could help a lot of people and even showcase our appreciation to our heroes." Ewen said while blushing slightly. He was also a huge fan of the heroes but wasn't as vocal about it as Emile. Black Cat was his number one though but admitting it out loud to the girls was a bit embarrassing. To Emile and Damian though? Fair game.
"Wow, never thought you'd say something so cool," Becky said sarcastically.
"Oui." Anya agreed.
"You two are the worst!" Ewen exclaimed.
They shared a laugh and then the bell rang much to their disappointment. They entered class, each taking their respective seats, Anya and Becky in the front, Damian, Ewen, and Emile in the back. As they settled down Damian took out all the essential items he would need for first period, it was usually history, his favorite subject. Mr. Henderson had a way that would be described as elegant when teaching this subject. He neatly put each pencil in its respective place. Plagg watched from his bag while rolling his eyes. Really now? They're just pencils! Why do you need to line them up so neatly? There were a lot of things he didn't quite get about his chosen. He was too much of a perfectionist. It was jarring and sometimes downright maddening at times. At least for Plagg as he was a being of supposed great wisdom and yet anyone who's ever met him will tell you the opposite. The more he observes Damian the more he realizes how different they are. And yet they're so compatible, as weird as that might be.
When Damian finished placing everything in the correct order the door to the classroom opened and in strolled George Glooman with his usual gloomy aura although it seemed less gloomy than usual if that was even possible. He came in with a box of pastries and walked up the steps before stopping in front of Damian's desk. "The usual." He stated as he handed him the box.
"Oh, thanks." Damian took the box and set it down in the space between him and Ewen. George gave a slight bow and continued walking up to his seat.
Becky raised an eyebrow. "What are those?"
Damian opened the box and took out a pastry. "Macarons."
"Why is George giving you macarons?" Anya asked curiously.
"It's his way of making it up to me after the whole Gloomy Weather incident, he feels embarrassed about the misunderstanding," Damian explained and then took a bite out of the macaron. The teacher isn't here yet so he might as well. "They're pretty good."
Wow, Damian eating in class? Who would have thought, Plagg snickered as his chosen ate another.
"I've never had any." Anya eyed the pastry, feeling her mouth water. And it wasn't just her as Tikki also couldn't help but want one too. She subtly tried to get Anya's attention by moving her bag and tapping her arm. Anya felt a slight touch and noticed Tikki's small paw. She must want one too.
"You can have one if you want Anya." Damian held out the box for her to take one.
Anya went for the pink one but before she could she paused. "Uh… can I have two?" She asked sheepishly.
"Sure, you can have as many as you want." I'll give you the whole box if you ask me to. Damian felt his heart skip a beat as he was graced with Anya's bright smile. She grabbed two like she asked and ate one.
"Woah! These are so good!" Anya let out an excited squeal. They didn't notice her subtly placing the second one in her bag.
Becky giggled at Anya's enthusiasm. "I have some every other day."
"That's because you're rich." Anya deadpanned.
"They're not that expensive," Emile added.
Anya just looked at him like he was mad. "Of course you say that! You're rich!" How Anya managed to go to school with a bunch of rich kids is a question she still asks herself to this day. Eden High isn't prestigious or anything and it's not even a private school of some sort. It wasn't even a boarding school. And yet Anya was surrounded by prestige. Although she was used to it because of Becky. Then again her school was fancier than any other public school and it did have a lot of funding and the food in the cafeteria is high tier and… maybe her school is prestigious. Well anyway, Anya doesn't usually care, far from it but at times she feels bad she can't feed Tikki properly. Tikki's go-to food was sweets. Anya didn't have many sweets to offer and the ones she could buy were cheap candies from the corner store. Thank god Hawk Moth hasn't appeared with an overly powerful Akuma otherwise she'd be fucked. Tikki never complains but Anya can tell she's hungry. Aside from her sweet tooth, she's a bit of a glutton.
With her line of thinking she unknowingly had a frown on her face. Damian couldn't help but notice her mood change. Anya turned around and looked at her notebook and began to doodle to distract her mind. Damian shot Emile a glare realizing she must have gotten upset over what he said. Emile raised his hands in a defensive position while shaking his head. Damian rolled his eyes and sighed. She's probably just frustrated over not being able to eat these types of sweets. He eyed her as she drew her dog Bond. He wondered how he was doing, he hadn't seen her dog in a week. Before he got busy again he was accompanying her on her walks to the park to allow Bond to become familiar with the area. The dog was surprisingly hyper-intelligent that it sorta scared him.
I could just get some for her.
But would she accept?
Despite having all the money in the world, Anya never lets any of them pay for her share. If they eat out? She pays for her food. If they go to the movies? She pays for her tickets and snacks. If Becky insists on a shopping spree day? Anything Anya buys she pays for it. Which is never much naturally but still.
It infuriated him but at the same time, he couldn't help but love her even more. If anything it meant, to him at least, that she sees them as friends and not ATMs. The number of times Damian has taken out potential friends and they all expected him to pay was one too many times. It was the reason he only had Ewen and Emile as friends. Because they genuinely cared about him.
Anya sees him as a friend, as a person. She doesn't see anything more or anything less.
God, I love this girl.
He placed his hand on his cheek and stared at her with that love-struck look of his. Plagg rolled his eyes at his chosen's crush. He didn't mind but boy was he a simp.
Mr. Henderson finally walked in starting the class for the day.
-
It was lunchtime.
Damian sat at their usual spot eating his lunch while reading his notes. He can't help but double, and triple-check them every time much to his friends' amusement. Although they understood how Damian operates at this point. He took another bite out of his food not noticing any of the events that were going on around him. For starters, Emile started a Mario kart race with Anya on his switch while Becky and Ewen discussed some changes and upgrades to the Hero Blog. She was getting a crash course on how the website operated in case Ewen was ever busy or not around to fix something. Unless it was major Becky was more or less learning how to manage it on her own. Meanwhile, Anya was beating Emile in Mario kart much to his dismay. He let out a sound of defeat while Anya jumped up and down in victory.
"It was the blue shell!! Fuck blue shells!!" Emile groaned as Anya passed her controller and he started putting away the switch.
"All my homies hate blue shells," Ewen added, feeling Emile's pain.
Anya rolled her eyes. "Oh please like you wouldn't have used one too." Like she didn't notice him getting the power-up items in hopes of getting one so he could throw it at her. "You guys should learn how to dodge them." Anya huffed feeling somewhat superior to her classy and rich friends.
Becky sighed and shook her head. "I don't know how you manage it but all the power to you." She gave her dramatic bow as Anya returned it just as dramatically. The two girls shared a giggle.
Ewen went over and poked Damian who was still busy with his notes. "Hey, Bossman."
"Hm?"
"Wanna hang out at the arcade today?" He suggested to which Emile perked up nodding eagerly.
"Yeah, we could all hang out and have a day for just boys." He looked over to the girls when emphasizing the boys' part. The girls merely rolled their eyes.
"Can't," Damian muttered.
"Huh? Why not?" Ewen said, sounding disappointed.
Damian sighed and turned to Ewen. "Father signed me up for fencing classes."
Emile looked at him in confusion. "Fencing? Why?"
Damian merely shrugged, he was just as confused this morning. "I don't know, he claims he wants me to take up another hobby."
"As if you don't already have so many!" Ewen exclaimed.
Emile stood up with a scowl. "Yeah! You literally take piano lessons, violin lessons, Chinese lessons, swimming lessons-"
"Swimming lessons?" Anya inquired to which Damian merely waved his hand dismissively at the question.
"-On top of doing photoshoots, maintaining good grades by studying, and even taking on extra work for more points you do so much already Boss!" Emile finished feeling a little out of breath. He was red from anger if he were honest. Ewen patted his back.
Becky let out a whistle. "I knew it was bad but didn't know it was that bad." She muttered a 'sheesh' under her breath.
Even Anya couldn't help her frown. "That's messed up." She had hobbies of her own but they were her own choices.
"Guys it's fine." Damian began but was immediately interrupted.
"No, it's not fine! Stop saying that!" His friends said in unison. Ewen and Emile were practically seething in anger as they did.
Becky merely took out her phone to distract herself with the Hero Blog while Anya continued to watch the scene, noticing Damian's surprised expression. He seemed unable to form a proper response as he was fiddling in his seat unable to meet their gaze.
He knew they were right and yet there was still that part of him that still tried to make excuses. At the end of the day, he was a Desmond and this is what was expected of him. It was all the bare minimum considering Demetrius has done all of that and more. A shiver went down his spine remembering the last time he saw him. He was leaving as he planned to explore the world for a bit before settling down. It took a while for him to convince their father to let him have this bit of freedom as it was only temporary. He let him. Damian watched as his brother boarded the plane. One last look.
Damian never really understood what that look meant.
"You guys are exaggerating okay!" He got up abruptly. The class was starting soon anyway so he might as well make his way toward Cecile Hall. As he got his things and threw away his trash he began walking toward class. His friends matched his pace just as quickly.
"You know we're not exaggerating!"
"Yeah! Why can't you just stop being stubborn and admit there's a problem!"
Ewen and Emile didn't relent on their pestering as they had no issues trying to get Damian to say something, open up, anything. Anya and Becky were behind the trio listening in as they all walked to class. Once inside some of their classmates turned their heads seeing the five walk in with Ewen and Emile being rather loud. It was an unspoken observation among the classmates of Cecile Hall. When it came to these five they were always loud, even during class. The teachers have long since stopped telling them off because despite their loudness they still get their work done, some with perfect notes. Ewen, Emile, and Damian were having a one-sided argument while Anya and Becky merely sat down in their seats.
Amanda, who was sitting in the seats beside them accompanying Leo, looked at the two girls with a questioning gaze. "What's going on?"
Becky shrugged while Anya sweatdropped and answered. "We don't really know."
Amanda and Leo shared a look before the door opened again and in came George Glooman with a soda. He paused watching the trio arguing, well Ewen and Emile were arguing with a very quiet and pissed-off Damian. He slowly walked up to his desk and placed the soda down before booking it to his desk. Damian took it, opened it, and chugged it like he desperately needed this. Anya winced at the way the can was crushed with his bare hand. He felt a migraine incoming the more Ewen and Emile continued their barrage of words. He chucked the can and it successfully landed in the trash can. He'd celebrate it but his friends were practically yelling in his ear and it was annoying.
"With what fucking right does he have to be doing this to you!!"
"Why can't you stand up for yourself more!!
"Yeah! Why do you indulge in this? Or worse, why are you even still doing photoshoots?!"
"They're dumb anyway!"
Damian slammed his fist on his desk causing everyone to flinch. "Shut. UP!" Silence ensued and all that could be heard was his heavy breathing. Nobody dared to move or make a sound when looked at his friends with a deadly glare. "Just shut the fuck up!"
Anya looked between the three with a mortified expression. She looked at Becky for help but she knew better than to involve herself in whatever was about to go down. Anya mentally facepalmed. She's faced villains before, this should be a piece of cake. "Sy-on boy."
"What!?" He screamed.
Anya shut her mouth real quick as her eyes went wide. Then she felt anger. "Hey! Don't speak to me like that!"
It was short but it was enough to drive everyone in Cecile Hall insane. It was another unspoken truth between them that it was obvious Damian had a thing for Anya. He certainly liked her as more than just a friend. So seeing him act so rudely to her and for her to look hurt was going to be the thing that they talk about for the next 24 hours alongside the trio's first fight.
"I…" Damian paused, realizing what he just did. "I'm so sorry Anya."
Anya's gaze softened as she noticed his distressed expression. The teacher wasn't around yet so she got up and beckoned Damian to follow her. She looked at Ewen and Emile with reassurance that she could fix this. They looked relieved when Damian followed her out. They both walked to a secluded area away from prying eyes. Anya turned around with her arms crossed. "Okay, what's the deal?"
Damian sighed, he looked exhausted and so done with everything. "Nothing I… I just let my anger get the best of me."
Anya wasn't buying that so she placed a hand on his shoulder which looked awkward considering their height difference. In general, she was always looking up at him, it was not fair. "You can talk to me." She reassured him.
He averted his gaze feeling his face heat up from the sudden contact. She looked so worried that it made him feel things besides guilt. "You know modeling is important to me."
Anya nodded, she had a moment similar with Damian back then before the Gloomy fight. However, it didn't feel like a fight, more like a disagreement which ended fairly considering they cleared it up and Anya learned that this was something important to him. "I'm sure they didn't mean it like that." Ewen and Emile were just upset that Damian never seems to have free time. Anya understood that more than anyone.
"I know… it's just… I'm dumb." He let out another sigh as he semi-leaned against the wall.
"Extremely." She joked.
He rolled his eyes. "I'll apologize to them."
Anya nodded with a smile. "The right thing to do."
They walked back to class, the teacher was luckily not there yet but the silence was tense. Ewen and Emile lit up seeing Damian look calmer. Anya worked her magic although that wasn't a surprise as Anya was always good at helping people.
"Boss we're-"
Damian interrupted them. "I'm sorry for yelling at you guys." He sat back down, his entire attention on them. "Please forgive me." They didn't hesitate to pounce on Damian with a huge hug with happy tears while claiming that they forgive him. Damian felt immense relief as he hugged his friends back. Everything was fine again.
Anya felt satisfied seeing the trio happy again.
-
Once school was over the boys didn't hesitate to dip as soon as possible. Granted they did take a few minutes to say goodbye to the girls. Jeeves was out with Damian's father, Donovan and he refused to be picked up by anyone else. So naturally, they all hopped in Emile's car for a ride. Ewen called to let his family know not to pick him up. They don't usually have time to hang out so they decided to take advantage of the free time Damian has to go to the arcade.
The entire time they were hanging out and having fun in the back of Damian's mind he felt like he forgot something. It wasn't unusual but Damian was always good at remembering anything important.
So he just decided to have fun.
They started off playing with a zombie shooter game called Left for Dead, the second one.
"To my right- to my right! There's too many fucking zombies!" Damian started giving orders like usual.
"What the hell?! What is this?" Ewen exclaimed, trying to survive for dear life.
"WE GOT A FUCKING BOOMER!" Emile yelled out as he let out a scream as soon as he was blinded by the Boomer. "SHOOT IT SHOOT IT!" He started blasting without direction. The boys were dealing with a horde so Emile was on his own. Next thing he knows it explodes. He let out a massive groan and had to quickly heal himself.
"Emile is healing, we got another horde incoming," Damian called out the obvious.
"Yeah, no shit," Emile said annoyingly, seeing as he was left to fend for himself.
While shooting Ewen decided to ask a question. "Guys, why are we playing this game here and not at home?" He started shooting a couple of zombies from the horde.
"Why not? We don't go out much and we're rich anyway." Damian said as he shrugged and shot an incoming Boomer. It exploded.
"Doesn't feel good now does it?" Emile smirked.
"I'm going to friendly fire you, I swear to god," Damian warned, shooting as best as he could while momentarily blind. Unlike with Emile, Ewen was covering for him which greatly offended Emile.
"I see how it is!" He quickly shot at an incoming horde and started running to the next area without them. They were playing the carnival map which meant they had to go up and down a lot. He happened to get past the horde by sheer miracle. "See ya losers." He mocked them.
"HEY!" Damian and Ewen said at the same time in indignation. They shot through the horde occasionally dealing with some hunters.
"I got a smoker on me!" Ewen yelled out to which Damian came to his aid. They eventually caught up to Emile who was dealing with an incoming horde.
"You guys are way too fast." He complained but he was glad since dealing with these hordes is the worst. The distant sound of a cackle caught his attention. "You guys hear that?" He got closer despite his better judgment.
Damian began to panic. "Emile no! It's a fucking jockey!"
"A what-" Suddenly a grotesque-looking zombie latched itself onto his character's back and started attacking him. "HOLY- HELP! GET IT OFF!!" He started flailing around as if the thing was actually on him and not just in character. Ewen took pity on him and managed to shoot him off. Between him and Emile, they killed it swiftly.
Damian sighed. "At least it wasn't a fucking witch." He muttered as he continued shooting at the incoming horde. They managed to reach a checkpoint and rested while healing up and stocking on ammo. After a few minutes, they went out again. Damian heard the distinct sound of coughing. "Incoming smoker watch out." He called out as he started shooting at a couple of zombies. The horde came after a few seconds.
"Shit it's on me!" Ewen called out trying to break free.
"I got you." Emile shot the thing until it let him go. They killed it and continued.
"We're almost done with this map right?" Ewen asked.
"Think so," Damian replied, focused on killing the zombies in front of him.
After a few minutes, the sound of someone crying hit their ears. It was like a chill went down their spine as soon as they heard it.
"Fuck it's the witch." Damian looked around trying to locate her so they could avoid her better. Her cries were getting louder which only freaked him out more since he still couldn't see her at all. She usually isn't this hard to spot.
"My god I hate this music," Emile commented before making a turn and suddenly the wailing of the witch could be heard.
"SHIT EMILE STARTLED THE WITCH!!"
"OH FUCK!!"
She started chasing him down which left Damian and Ewen to barrage her with bullets. She downed Emile and eventually after lots of damage was done she went down.
Emile placed back the fake pistol controller back in its place. "Fuck this I can't anymore." He gave up. He was getting fucked over terribly.
"Honestly, I can't play this game standing up." Ewen likes the game but he gets cramped up after standing for a while and this could go on forever depending on how you're feeling.
Damian merely sighed and decided that was enough gaming at the arcade, they had been here for around two hours- wait two hours?! They were gaming for that long? Damn. They all walked towards their backpacks by the entrance. Each grabbed their respective backpacks. Damian started rummaging through his trying to find his phone.
"Man I'm starving, how about some pizza?" Emile suggested.
"Sure why not, you up for it Boss-" Ewen paused, noticing Damian's pale expression. Boss?"
"I fucked up." That was all he managed to say before he hurried them to the car so he could head home. How they didn't get a speeding ticket on the way there was a miracle in itself. The car practically screeched when they arrived in front of the Desmond mansion.
Ewen and Emile followed behind Damian who was in a panic. He ran inside, practically throwing the doors open. He took in a few deep breaths and almost gasped seeing his father standing there with his narrow eyes. Damian straightened immediately. Ewen and Emile were behind him and they too felt Donovan Desmond's intimidating presence. It was like he was staring into their souls. He walked towards Damian slowly. It was agonizing.
"Damian."
Damian immediately started to explain himself. "Father please I'm sorry, I completely forgot! I was busy all day in school and-"
"Enough." He didn't yell but his simple command was all he needed for Damian to stop talking.
Damian was panicking. He forgot he was supposed to be at fencing class. Not be playing with his friends. His father must be so pissed! "But father-"
"Damian I said enough."
Uh oh, a shared thought went through Ewen and Emile as they shared a look of worry. Donovan looked at the two causing them to stiffen under his intense gaze.
His eyes narrowed more than anyone thought they could. "Damian as punishment for disobeying me I forbid you from ever being friends with these two bad influences ever again, are we clear? I've had enough of you straying because of them."
Damian's eyes went wide with horror. "But father! It wasn't their fault I forgot! Please don't do this to me!!" He began to beg. Anything but that. Not his friends.
They immediately came to his defense.
"Boss is a good kid! He does well in school and never loses focus! He was just stressed out today!"
"Yeah we had a lot of work so naturally he just forgot!"
Donovan wasn't hearing any of it. "Jeeves escort these two outside, please. I don't want them anywhere near my house."
"But-!"
"Sir!"
"OUT!" He finally screamed. It was so loud it freaked the trio out.
They had no choice but to leave but not before watching as Damian stood there unmoving, unable to look them in the eyes. They stepped outside, the doors felt like they were slowly closing.
Inside Donovan observed Damian. "She would be so disappointed."
Damian almost fell to his knees but he remained firm, not able to look his father in the eyes.
Ewen and Emile's last image of Damian was his back turned towards them.
-
It was soft and soothing until it wasn't. The slow start seemed positive but slowly turned into a sorrowful melody.
Plagg didn't know a single thing about playing the violin but watching Damian play a song he composed himself was rather mesmerizing. But it was obvious to anyone who truly knew him that his gaze was anything but happy or neutral. He had that neutral, expressionless face that he always has but Plagg could see right through it. After the debacle that happened a week ago Damian just… shut down completely, and he stopped talking to his friends. And Plagg knew it was eating at Damian slowly, like a deadly poison ready to consume him whole. The sound of the melody being played made him feel immense sadness. It probably didn't help that Damian was playing it in front of a family portrait. It consisted of him at six years old with his father, mother, and older brother. The only one with a smile was his mother.
The melody stopped and Damian put down his violin on a chair nearby and stared up at the old family portrait, his hand resting on his six-year-old self.
"Kid?" Plagg whispered. There was no reaction from Damian aside from moving his hand away from the portrait.
…
"She's not here you know."
"...Who?"
Damian didn't say anything further.
Plagg shifted around. "Where is she?" He didn't know who the 'she' in question was but he might as well get Damian to talk.
"Not here." Was all he said, his voice was low. Barely a whisper.
"Is that why you're sad?" He asked again. Anything to get Damian out of whatever trance he put himself in. Damian closed his eyes and walked away from the portrait much to Plagg's annoyance. "Kid!"
He stopped and Plagg shut his mouth quickly. "It's my birthday in two days."
"Really? That's cool! Are you planning a party?"
"No."
Oh.
"Why not?"
"Father doesn't think I need a party, much less at his house." He spat out. He was suppressing a growl.
"That's not fair! You're turning sixteen right? You're still young and deserve to have fun and invite your friends on your special day!" Plagg said as he whirled around Damian.
"I don't have any friends…" Damian clenched his fist. "Not anymore."
Plagg stopped and looked at Damian questioning his intelligence. "Damian, you don't have to listen to your father! Friends are a thing you can't give up! All your life is spent pleasing people that don't deserve it and the one thing that makes you happy? You're being forced to give it up!" He exclaimed. Damian opened the door to his room and didn't bother fixing the calendar on the wall that looked like it was about to fall. Such a simple gesture made Plagg realize this kid was too far in the sad fog. "Are you really so bad at doing what makes you happy that having a fight with your dad and him making you give up everything means it's all over?"
Damian glared at Plagg before turning his gaze to the carpeted floor. "I… Ewen and Emile were my only friends for a long time and whenever I was down they'd just do everything in their power to cheer me up…" He trailed off and looked at the picture by the computer desk that showed him at age ten with Ewen and Emile smiling brightly. It was the first time they all went to an amusement park alone.
Well, that explains his lack of more friends. "Damian, as I said, it's not over! Fights with your parents happen all the time so don't let this get you down! Just talk with your dad… or don't and continue being friends with Ewen and Emile." He watched as his chosen threw himself on his bed landing stiffly and deflated. Plagg sweatdropped. "Come on kid if you don't talk to Ewen and Emile then they'll think it's their fault. Not only that but you also stopped talking to Anya and Becky and they weren't even aware of what happened!" He got no response. It almost didn't seem like Damian was breathing. He was like a statue.
Plag rubbed his temples. "At least talk to Anya, she won't like you otherwise."
"I don't care if she doesn't like me!"
Well, that got him to react. "Yes, you do."
"No, I don't!!" Damian abruptly got up from his bed and stared Plagg down.
He held his gaze, silence passed as the two engaged in a staring contest. Plagg broke the silence only out of curiosity. "What changed?"
Damian blinked at him in shock, effectively losing the staring contest. "I- Excuse me?"
"What changed?" Plagg asked again as he crossed his arms.
"No idea what you're talking about-"
"Between you and Anya."
Oh.
Damian looked away, unable to look him in the eyes. His face broke into a blush. He quickly covered his face. What gave him away was the fact that his ears were red as well. Plagg flew towards him, forcing him to look at him. He gave him a knowing smirk. Damian kept looking away but Plagg kept zooming into his line of sight. Ultimately he got so annoyed he spilled the beans. "IT WAS IN MIDDLE SCHOOL OKAY!" Plagg nodded allowing him to continue. "I- Well more like we were graduating and everyone but me knew about what happened…"
"What happened?"
"I don't want to talk about that."
Must be heavy stuff. "Okay."
"Anyway I… I found out once I was leaving and… things happened and Anya found me and-" He quickly covered his mouth as steam practically came out of his ears. This is so embarrassing! "She… comforted me! And I- Oh god- I practically blew it!" He exclaimed.
"What did you do?" Plagg asked.
"I… she comforted me and she thought we would be friends but the next day I practically screamed at her to leave me alone and that she's ugly." Damian threw himself on the bed again letting out a strangled sound. "I DIDN'T MEAN IT!"
Plagg nodded, finally understanding. "So you're a dumbass."
"SHUT UP!"
Plagg ignored him and continued. "But-! She likes you now and was willing to forgive you and befriend you, remember she's the one that asked and you said yes! If you talk to her about everything I'm sure she'll help you clear your head." He flew up to his chosen with a grin.
Damian lay there trying to avoid Plagg's gaze by looking at the ceiling. He's right, I just have to talk to Anya, she'll know what to do… but… "But she probably regrets ever giving me a chance." And just like that Damian was back moping, undoing all the hard work Plagg had to do to get him to open up.
"Kid please you're impossible, extremely impossible! Why is it so hard for you to not see the good sid-"
"WHAT GOOD SIDE?! I can't okay! There's nothing good out of all of this! I know I'm an idiot that messed up by forgetting my duties! My responsibilities! I angered my Father and I can't change that!" He shouted, his voice cracking at one point but he didn't dare let himself stutter or falter. Damian let out a breath he didn't know he was holding and allowed his body to drop down back on the bed this time his head hit his pillow. "Sometimes I… I wonder why I was chosen as the user of the Cat miraculous when I can't even do anything right."
Plagg stiffened at that. "He-Hey kid don't go quitting on me okay! You were chosen for a reason so don't question it! Plus you're a perfect miraculous user! I've never seen someone with a firm grasp of his abilities, how to use them and his duty be picked up faster than you!" He praised him hoping maybe it would cheer him up. Plagg wasn't one to praise, that was Tikki's job really but it was obvious his chosen wasn't feeling like himself lately.
Damian looked up with wide eyes. "Really?"
Plagg nodded. "Really."
He smiled slightly which let Plagg know his praise worked if only for a little. "I'll talk to Emile and Ewen tomorrow."
"And Anya," Plagg added.
Damian blushed. "...And Anya."
-
Going to school was harder than he thought it would be mainly because he once again walked in by himself instead of being accompanied by his friends. He's always the first to arrive so he wasn't worried about crossing paths with any of them yet. Talking to his friends proved to be harder than it should have been. Even with Plagg's encouragement, Damian was too scared, he felt off. The hushed whispers were too obvious. The subtle pointing as well. Damian rolled his eyes feeling nothing but annoyance. He was spared from the gossip when he entered Cecile Hall. He was glad his classmates had half a mind to at least not gossip in his presence.
"Hey Desmond I heard you and the other losers are no longer friends." Sam, a bully he's all too accustomed to, began to mock him.
Well, almost all of my classmates. "Leave me be Samuel." He didn't want to waste time on someone so dumb as him.
Sam walked up to his desk and smirked. "Don't think I will Desmond."
Damian mentally groaned and decided ignoring him was the best option for his dwindling sanity. How Sam had the balls to speak to Damian in that way knowing full well Damian can and will destroy him and his family in a matter of seconds is astonishing. He's either incredibly brave or incredibly stupid. Dropped on the head as a baby perhaps. He refrained from chuckling at that.
"Hey, leave Damian alone!" Leo immediately came to his defense.
"Yeah knock it off!" Amanda spoke up as well.
Sam merely laughed ignoring those two. "As I said, don't think I will." Sam was about to grab Damian when a hand stopped him and pushed him away.
Damian's eyes went wide as he stared at his savior.
"Leave Sy-on boy alone!" Anya glared at Sam. She was standing between them unafraid of the consequences. Of course, Anya didn't realize any consequences attempting to come her way would be deflected by Damian in a heartbeat.
"Why should I? We all know he's a rich daddy's boy that thinks he's above everyone else!" Sam's initial mocking turned into venom being spewed from his mouth.
"Sy-on boy is not like that at all!" Anya exclaimed with such conviction that it made Damian's heart swell.
Sam crossed his arms and scoffed. "Oh really? Then why did he stop talking to his friends? To you? It's because you guys aren't worth his time anymore! Especially you! You're a commoner after all!"
Anya was about to rebuttal but realized nothing was coming out of her mouth. She didn't know what to say. She seemed to falter, which made Damian feel hurt at what this essentially implied. She still doubts me… thinks the worst of me…
"That's…" She trailed off.
"Good to know you still hate me, Forger." He uttered which made her eyes go wide.
She turned to face him with a frown. "What am I supposed to think?! You weren't talking to me or any of our friends!"
She was right, Damian knew she was right, and yet… "I was going to tell you but I see I'm just wasting my time." He didn't bother to stick around for her answer.
Anya watched as he bolted out of the classroom.
-
Stupid.
Stupid.
Stupid.
Stupid.
Stupid!!!
He punched the wall causing Plagg to come out of his hiding spot. "Woah, kid! Calm down!"
"Shut up! I don't wanna hear it! Not from you! Not from anyone!" He screamed covering his ears completely unaware of his tears.
Plagg stood there watching as his chosen silently cried in the corner. Since everyone was in the courtyard or fooling around in the field nobody was around although he feared the occasional faculty member might find him there. Regardless he kept those fears to himself as he slowly flowed towards him and placed his paw on his chosen's head and began to stroke his hair. "I'm here for you kid."
Damian took in a shaky breath as he desperately dried his tears. He felt embarrassed for crying like that. Luckily nobody was around to see such an embarrassing display. He sat up against the wall taking in deep breaths trying to calm his racing heart. Everything inside him was screaming but he knew he had to remain firm. If he didn't then… then…
"Damian… just let it all out," Plagg advised, which was uncharacteristic of him.
Damian just sat there staring at the Kwami. He didn't notice the rain that began to pour around him. The weather report did say there was going to be rain today but such timing was impeccable. Damian looked down at the floor as the white noise of the rain filled his ears, soothing him. He's sure something like this has happened before right…?
"Sy-on boy."
He closed his eyes as a flashback flashed in his mind.
-
He was young, around six probably. It was raining and he was alone like always. He was under something, he wasn't sure what it was but it was covering him from the rain. He was crying, over what, he didn't quite know but then he heard a voice.
"Sy-on boy, sy-on boy! There you are, I found you!"
"Anya?"
She sat down beside him drenched from head to toe in the rain. The dummy was probably out and about. She'll get sick. What a dummy.
"Are you crying?"
"No! Leave me alone, go away!"
…
"Sy-on boy is a bad liar."
"Shut up stubby!"
He was so desperate to be alone. He couldn't remember why.
"Anya cries too sometimes."
"I'm not crying!!"
"Liar!"
"I am not!!"
Anya giggled that sweet giggle he's grown to love. The sound soothed his aching heart at the time. She got up and started running around in the rain. He remembered running after her out of concern although he masked his intentions at the time. But Anya could see through him somehow.
"Sy-on boy is a bad liar!"
"Shut up you'll get sick in the rain and it won't be my fault you shrimp!"
Anya just kept running and running, laughing and splashing the puddles. Looking back now he realizes she was just distracting him from his sad thoughts as best as she could. He was never going to tell her what was wrong and it's not like she'd get it. They were only six.
"Look Sy-on boy, the lake looks pretty when it's raining!"
"Dummy don't get close!"
"It's fine I won't fa-"
Splaaaaassssh
"ANYA!!!"
-
That startled Damian awake. He hadn't even noticed his eyes were closed. He blinked and looked around noticing it was still raining.
What… what did I just… remember…?
He clutched his head. No way that was fake, it was so vivid. Anya falling into the lake? When did that happen? Does she remember? What happened right after?! She was saved or else she wouldn't be here but… why… why does he feel like this memory is… important?
He shook his head and got up and almost fell right back had he not leaned against the wall. His legs seemed to have fallen asleep. He noticed Plagg was laying on his head sleeping away. He rolled his eyes, such a lazy Kwami. And yet he wouldn't have it any other way. "Wake up Plagg, I have to head back to class."
"Five more minutes mom."
Damian rolled his eyes again, grabbed Plagg, and forced him into his shirt pocket. "Dummy." He began walking to class ready to face the music. He felt embarrassed but regardless walked in anyway. He slowly opened the door and walked in. He felt all eyes were on him the moment he went in and yet he wouldn't meet anyone's gaze.
"Mr. Desmond, where were you?"
"Nurse's office." A lie but whatever.
"I see, please sit down and read pages thirty and thirty-one."
He nodded and made his way toward his desk ignoring all the gazes that were on him. Ignoring the way his friends were looking at him in concern. He could tell Ewen and Emile looked about ready to cry but he couldn't face them right now. Everything was still so fresh in his mind. It had nothing to do with them but… it still hurt.
Everything hurts.
He just did what he was told a week ago, ignoring the way his friends were trying to get his attention. He wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone much less them. The silence in the classroom today was unwelcome like always. No chatter, no nothing. It felt wrong. But he wasn't going to do anything about it. The silence is fine, it's fine. He couldn't concentrate on reading though and he knew it was important and he should take notes but he couldn't move. His hands clutched the book trying to force himself to put it down and get his notebook out. He couldn't. Not even any of the words that he was looking at would register in his mind. What was this class even about again?
Riiiiiiing
Oh, thank god for the bell.
"For homework pages thirty-two and thirty-three." The teacher said before leaving. He left the classroom filled with silence.
It was brief as Ewen and Emile had their issues with Damian to work out.
"Boss, we're sorry if we caused you problems!"
"Please talk to us!"
Damian just stared and stared, his mind not registering the words of his friends. Why are they apologizing? He should apologize and tell them it isn't their fault. His mouth wouldn't move, and he did not react despite trying to tell himself to speak. That it was fine, that things could just go back to the way it was. And yet… nothing.
"Boss?"
"Bossman?"
Nothing, not even a sound. Was he even breathing?
"I-" He finally started speaking! He cringed at how tired he sounded. "It's alright." God, why can't I just… act normally! Anya and Becky still had their backs turned. Ewen and Emile were staring at Damian expecting him to say something else. Anything really but he never did. He remained silent. The more time passed the more he was sure he was ruining everything.
Like always he remained silent.
Until Anya abruptly slammed her hands on her desk and got up glaring at Damian.
"Anya…" Damian felt his throat get dry as soon as he muttered her name. It didn't feel right. He hurt her and didn't deserve her at all.
Despite her glare, Anya didn't look upset but she didn't look too thrilled either. "I think we should talk to Sy-on boy." She gestured towards the door. Class wasn't starting yet. She left her stuff with Becky just in case. By default, Ewen and Emile agreed to look after Damian's things as well.
Damian didn't question it as he followed behind her. He prepared himself for the worst. She was likely going to tell him off and say they can't be friends anymore. Plagg was wrong he can't do this, even if he does explain everything it won't be enough for Anya most likely. He should resign himself but the mere thought of losing Anya was too much for him. "Anya I-"
"Damian."
"...Huh?" DID SHE JUST USE MY NAME HOLY SHIT I'M DOOMED!
Anya sighed. "I don't want us to be like this, I don't like fighting with you believe it or not." She didn't know when exactly it happened but as much as she found him annoying back then there was always a part of her that wished they'd get along and be friends. The small amount of time they did manage to be friends made Anya happy. So happy. So much so that she doesn't like the silence that accompanied him leaving.
Damian felt a weight being lifted hearing Anya say that. "Anya I also don't like fighting with you, I'm so sorry I just stopped talking to you out of nowhere." He felt his body tremble slightly. "I fucked up, majorly! I fucked up with Ewen and Emile too! I just… things happened and my Father forbade me from being friends with them but I should have never listened, I should have- I- I'm scared they won't forgive me." Out of everyone, he'd only be vulnerable around Anya. Because that's how it is with Anya. She had a way to make you feel safe and comfortable. And Damian felt the safest with her.
Anya smiled slightly. "I accept your apology, Damian, as for Ewen and Emile, well I don't know how obvious it is to you but it's pretty obvious to me that they miss you a lot and will forgive you." She hugged him.
A hug he had missed these last few days. He practically melted as soon as he felt her arms around him. It felt like all was right with the world and nothing else mattered. If only momentarily. "I'll make it up to you I promise."
She chuckled slightly. "You better." She playfully punched his shoulder.
It hurt if he were honest but he didn't mind one bit.
There was a bit of silence before Anya finally spoke up again. "About what Sam said…" She trailed off. Once she calmed down she felt angry over their issues being aired out like that in front of everyone in Cecile Hall.
"It's whatever at this point." If he were honest Damian didn't even want to remember that going down. "He was wrong and that's all that matters."
Anya quickly shook her head. "But it's not! And I'm sorry I didn't stop him. He shouldn't have been talking about you like that, he doesn't even know you!"
He waved his hand dismissively. "What he said didn't hurt me, what hurts me is you doubting me but it's my fault because I provoked it."
"Dami-"
"Don't Anya."
"At least let me apologize! I never should have doubted you and I never should have even said that in front of our classmates." She grabbed his sleeve.
Without thinking he held her hand tightly. "Anya, I forgive you." He let out a sigh. "The majority of Cecile Hall are all students we went to Elementary with and at one point shared a class, us having issues isn't anything new and it's to be expected. We've had a fair share of moments whether good or bad. I'm sure they were all there when that one incident happened." Damian paused. Wait, what incident? He blinked as he processed his words. He unconsciously remembered something while at the same time not remembering. How does that work?
Anya's eyes widened for a bit before her shoulders dropped. "You still remember that?"
"Barely?" He sweatdropped. He didn't actually but he wanted Anya to give him hints.
Anya chuckled slightly. "You know… that day was the first time you were kind to me without insulting me right after."
Damian blushed from embarrassment. "Please don't remind me of that other incident." He groaned covering his face while Anya started giggling. He semi-glared at her as she did but couldn't find it in himself to feel mad. If anything he felt relief.
Anya calmed her giggling fit before continuing. "Anyway I know I fell into the lake that day but-"
"Wait the lake?" It hit him that he did remember that incident a few hours ago.
She tilted her head to the side. "Yeah, don't you remember? Granted the memory is a bit hazy for me as well but I fell in and you jumped in to save me but you didn't know how to swim either so we both almost drowned." She explained as flashes of the incident passed through her mind.
Damian grimaced, he didn't remember that part, which begged the question. "Who saved us?"
Anya was about to reply but promptly stayed quiet. She tried to remember but couldn't. The last thing she could remember was laying beside Damian who was breathing heavily and reaching out to hold his hand. "I… I don't remember."
Strange.
"I guess we'll think about this some other day, I should talk to-" Damian was immediately interrupted.
"GUYS, GUYS!!" Becky came running towards them practically out of breath.
"What's wrong Becks?" Anya asked worryingly.
Becky took a deep breath before continuing. "Ewen and Emile got suspended! Sam started talking shit about Damian and they got mad and started a fight, it escalated to full-on violence. I tried to intervene but the boys weren't listening to me!" Becky exclaimed, explaining as best as she could, she was practically shaking as she did.
Damian paled upon hearing this. "What do you mean they got suspended??!!" Fuck! Why are they so- UGH! He felt his frustration build up. He wanted to make things right and now he won't get the chance! No way he can sneak out after school to go see them, his father won't allow it. He was practically being monitored with no leeway.
"Exactly that Desmond! For 3 days! Luckily so did Sam but still!" Becky practically rubbed at her temples. The stress was not good for her at all. Curse those boys.
Anya didn't even know what to say, to think Ewen and Emile would get suspended from the few minutes she and Damian were gone to talk things out, it was unexpected. "It's okay Damian I'm sure you can-'' She was interrupted.
"I can't, father has me monitored at the moment and I don't know what to do!" He started pacing around. "It's also my birthday tomorrow and-"
"WHAT?! IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY??!! AND YOU DIDN'T TELL ME!!" Anya screamed out, eyes wide from the revelation. She facepalmed, of course, how could she forget Damian's birthday? Then again he never invites her to his birthday parties. She's always stuck hearing how cool they are. Although recently Damian hasn't hosted one. Probably why she forgot. Thinking back Damian would always bring her some birthday cake.
Damian held his hands up. "It's not that I forgot to tell you! My father isn't letting me host a party but…" He trailed off, frowned, and looked at the floor feeling down. A single thought crossed his mind.
I just want to be a normal teen.
Anya's gaze softened, she settled down a bit understanding. "I get it, Sy-on boy." She paused and then looked at Becky expectantly. "Do you think the boys have already gone home?" She asked.
Becky nodded. "Unfortunately yeah… but-!" Her eyes lit up. "During lunch tomorrow we can schedule a meeting! Heck let's make it a surprise! We'll meet at that cute little cafe down the street and have a mini party for Desmond." She clapped her hands together.
Anya's eyes went wide, a huge grin appeared on her face. "That's a great idea Becks!" She turned to Damian, grabbing his hands and holding them tightly. "You hear that Sy-on boy! Tomorrow you'll be able to fix things with the boys and have a party!" A ray of literal sunshine appeared down on Anya at that moment making her look like an angel.
Damian's face broke into an extreme shade of red. He wanted to cover his face but Anya was holding his hands and his heart was beating so loudly he feared she could hear it. He looked everywhere but her, as staring into her beautiful emerald eyes will just turn him into a mess. "Ye-Yeah, can't wait." He could hear Plagg snickering as Damian's voice got a little higher than he meant to. He hoped Anya didn't notice that.
She didn't but Becky did. She raised an eyebrow with her arms crossed looking at Damian up and down before a knowing smirk appeared on her face. Oh, is this what I think it is? She held back her laughter for another time.
Damian felt a shiver go down his spine.
-
It was the next day and Ewen and Emile were at the park watching people exercising or passing by. A man was selling a couple of toys nearby including some bubble guns that caught their attention. They naturally bought three. One for themselves and the third one for Damian. If they manage to get him to talk to them again that is. It was harsh, terrible even. Donovan Desmond forbade their entry. They tried so hard but no matter what they did they were kicked out rather harshly.
It was no stranger that this was causing them pain. They've known Damian since he was six. Always inseparable, never one without the other. When Ewen and Emile first met him they were practically by his side instantly. Introductions happened, they knew he was a Desmond. They knew because of their families Damian decided they were good enough to stick by his side. They were lackeys before they were friends if they were honest. But their bond with Damian only grew and became stronger. It became genuine and sincere. They went out together, studied together, and faced all hardships together.
Being separated was painful.
"Will he ever talk to us again?" Emile suddenly asked as he filled his bubble gun with soap. He started firing it away wishing Damian were here to see it.
"I'm sure he will… it's not his fault… he's not mad… he doesn't hate us." Ewen clutched his bubble gun and swallowed hard. "Sam is wrong, Damian still cares!"
"Yeah!" Emile furiously nodded. "His father is just a dick!"
"Huge dick!"
"His fault!!"
There was a pause followed by silence. The birds chirped around them. The bubbles invade their vision for a bit before disappearing. Their feelings were in sync at that moment. All their troubles had a name. It was Donovan Desmond.
"It's Damian's birthday." Ewen voiced, feeling nothing but dread.
"His father likely said no to a party again," Emile growled. "Why is he doing this to him?!" He yelled out in frustration.
Ewen could only look ahead, the bubbles settling once again. "I don't know… he's probably all alone too…" Images of Damian being all alone for his birthday invaded his mind. He felt like he was going to be sick.
Emile paled. "Oh no."
The despair that they felt for their friend only grew.
And continued to grow.
-
A window opened presenting the stage for the day. A man in the middle with a wicked smile. His eyes looked out with pride. " Let's hope you don't fail me."
A white butterfly placed itself on his gloved hand quickly turning into a black and purple pattern.
" It's time for you to play my little Akuma."
The newly formed butterfly flew out the window.
Its destination, the park.
-
Damian couldn't hold still at all. The eagerness for lunchtime to come was too much.
He received a couple of happy birthdays from people. Mostly from Cecile Hall. Anya was the first to get the honor though. Plagg would have taken it but Damian has a sneaking suspicion he wanted Anya to be the first one. Despite being such a sneaky Kwami he sure is such a wingman. Without Damian ever noticing that is. Anya even got him a gift, well more like it's a surprise she planned to give him later on. Damian was sure it wasn't going to be grand like the gifts other people showered him with but Anya's was more significant. Up next was surprisingly Becky's, she doesn't go all out for anyone, especially not for Damian. However this year she got him a stationary set. A really good one. He couldn't help but thank her and feel oddly light.
But then she ruined it by talking.
"I know your secret Desmond." She winked at him which made him feel like a bucket of ice-cold water was dumped all over him.
OH GOD, WHAT SECRET?!
He had too many.
Today would have been perfect if his friends were here.
Thus he was antsy to see them.
When the bell rang he was the first one out the door. He didn't wait for Anya and Becky if he were honest, he was that impatient. Lunch only lasted for about an hour and walking to the cafe was going to take 5 minutes tops. There was no time to waste!
"Come on now Desmond, don't be antsy, we have a free period next so we can take our time," Becky said as she caught up to him with Anya in tow.
Damian stopped. "Wait really?!" Was he so distracted and stressed that he forgot? He quickly checked his class schedule and sure enough, Becky was right. The teacher would be out sick today so free period.
Becky snickered and patted his shoulder. "Hang in there." She continued walking, essentially leading the way as Anya giggled at Damian.
Damian on his part merely rolled his eyes and continued walking. He looked up at the clear blue sky feeling an immense amount of peace. For once he'll be able to celebrate his birthday without any issues. Even if he has to lie to his father. He doesn't care anyway so he won't eith- "What the?!" He said in alarm as he stared in shock at a seemingly purple and black butterfly fluttering by. "AN AKUMA!"
Hearing him scream, Anya immediately looked up to see the butterfly as well. She let out a gasp and bolted down the street following it. Damian followed closely as well. Becky stood there in shock for a few seconds before the situation registered in her mind and went after them. An Akuma?? The last one was weeks ago, that being Gloomy Weather. If Becky were honest after that failed attempt she was hoping the enemy had given up but she should have seen this coming. Like in Anya's superhero movies they just keep going and going.
As they ran down the street the Akuma made a sharp turn ducking into a park that was on the way to the cafe they were going to. Anya, Damian, and Becky paused by the entrance trying to locate the potential victim. Damian was the first to spot a whole section full of bubbles. There were a lot of kids running around and having fun with them. He ran in trying to find the Akuma but he had unfortunately lost sight of it. Anya looked the other way while Becky stayed by the entrance trying to climb the hedge to see if she could get a better vantage point.
Anya frantically looked around not seeing anything. "Shit, shit! Not today, please not today!" She looked everywhere until she spotted two figures from a distance. Is that Ewen and Emile?!
As soon as she spotted them, so did Damian. But to their horror, they watched as the Akuma etched itself in the bubble gun Ewen was handing to Emile. They watched as they both seemed like they were put into a trance. A gasp escaped Anya knowing what was about to happen but she couldn't move as she watched Damian desperately trying to reach them.
"Bubbler, my name is Hawk Moth."
"Your dearest friend whom you treasure so much is hurting on his special day."
"EWEN! EMILE! NOOO!"
"I can give you two the power to make sure he never suffers again."
"Yes, Hawk Moth."
A deal was made and set. The two were enveloped by the purple smoke and transformed into a newly formed villain.
Damian practically fell to his knees. "I failed."
Anya's eyes were wide. "Oh no…"
"Anya! You're needed!!" Tikki yelled out trying to snap her chosen out of it.
Anya blinked and blinked again trying to stop her tears. She ran out as the commotion around her began, people running away as they realized an Akuma was made. Anya ducked into an alleyway and took a deep breath. She looked at Tikki determinedly. "TIKKI SPOTS ON!" She transformed and quickly with her yo-yo flew out of her hiding spot and into the fray.
"LADYBUG!!" The familiar voice of Becky screaming at her caught her attention immediately.
Anya ran towards Becky who was shaking. "What's wrong?!" She managed to stop herself from calling her Becks. Seeing her friend so shaken made her feel shaken.
"My- My friend Da-Damian!!! He's trapped!!" She finally screamed out after stuttering. Anya went pale and looked toward where Becky was pointing.
Sure enough, Damian was locked in a literal prison made of… bubbles?! What the- well no point in questioning that right now. Anya twirled her yo-yo in a battle stance. "Get to safety Be- citizen!" She shook her head and ran towards the cage. She threw her yo-yo thinking it would break apart but it bounced off like it was made of metal and remained firm. HUH?!
"Ladybug? Ladybug! It's me, Damian Desmond! I'm trapped!" Damian yelled out. How did I manage to get trapped?! Shit! I was too close to them! How will I help out Bug now?!
Before Anya could get any closer to reassure Damian the villain appeared on top of the cage with a sinister laugh. It sounded echoey and hoarse at the same time. Like two people laughing at the same time. Anya noted as she glared at the Akuma. "Let him go!!!"
They wagged their finger at her in a 'no' manner. "No can do Red, we'll keep Lord Damian safe and sound for all of eternity!"
" WHAT?!" Damian looked at them with wide eyes.
"We won't let anything bad happen to Damian! And that includes YOU!" Bubbler yelled out materializing a literal Gatling gun that made Anya pale.
"GUYS NO!!"
They began firing at Ladybug. Anya half expected bullets but they were just bubbles then she quickly remembered they were likely not ordinary ones and started twirling her yo-yo to protect and parry them away. She started doing a couple of backflips to try and get away from their barrage of bubble bullets. An odd concept she never thought would be possible. Turning on her heel she ran hoping they would give chase. Unfortunately for her, this Akuma seemed hell-bent on sticking by the cage. She stopped skidding on the ground below her. The Akuma was essentially mocking her with its sinister chuckle. It was getting ready to fire but Anya was prepared to dodge at any given notice. A pleading look from Damian made her falter slightly. Don't worry Damian, I'll get you out of there! Much to her unfortunate surprise instead the Akuma opted to put away its weapon and summon huge bubbles that etched themselves at the bottom of the cage. They began to float up carrying the cage and Damian away.
"Wait- NO!!" Anya screamed out as Bubbler began to laugh.
"See ya little bug!"
She was about to give chase when…
Beep beep beep
Anya paused and felt her earrings. Panic set in as she was about to detransform. ALREADY?! Did she not- suddenly she remembered she hadn't fed Tikki at all these past few days. Her last meal was the macaroon Damian gave her that one time. Shit, shit, SHIT- Anya ducked behind a garbage container just in time as her transformation gave out. Tikki flew out panting and looking exhausted.
"I'm so sorry Anya, I'm so sorry." Tikki on the verge of passing out laid on Anya's hands apologizing to her chosen for not being able to keep her transformed.
"It's not your fault at all!!" Anya hugged her gently feeling nothing but incompetence. This is my fault, I'm an idiot! Having no time to throw herself a pity party she looked out and noticed massive bubbles taking over the entire city of Berlint. A gasp escaped as little by little every building was transforming. Party balloons and the like filled the area. Everyone was running for their lives away from the bubbles that were being thrown their way. Anya quickly ran down the street heading for her home to try and find something, anything for Tikki to eat and recover her stamina. As Anya made it to her home despite the crowd of screaming citizens getting in her way she ran into the store panting and feeling tired. Her parents looked up in concern.
"Anya!" They both exclaimed, rushing toward their daughter.
She hugged them tightly glad to know they were safe. "I'm fine, I'm fine but…" She trailed off feeling tears threatening to spill. She was a terrible miraculous holder. In her ever-fleeting mind full of dreams she completely neglected Tikki who was the source of all her power.
"It's okay my little peanut, everything will be alright." Loid consoled his daughter, kissing her on her forehead. He didn't know what exactly she must have witnessed to be so shaken up but eventually, he'll find out once she's feeling better.
"Let's go upstairs, I'm sure there are already new reports on what's going on," Yor suggested. They usually do that with every Akuma attack, mainly to calm their nerves and remain vigilant. "I'm sure Ladybug and Black Cat will save the day." She said, trying to reassure her daughter.
In a way, it helped. Knowing Cat was likely on his way or already present and fighting was enough to make her feel better. Even if she was the worst miraculous holder, what was keeping her from quitting altogether was her Kitty. He was always reassuring her that she was doing fine. She nodded and followed her parents. It didn't take long for them to sit down and turn on the television where sure enough there was a news report on the Akuma. It was a two-for-one special. Nobody has ever seen such a thing before. Anya didn't even know two people could be akumatized at the same time. It changed the ties in the battle. With her out of commission while she's raiding the fridge for sweets she could only hope Cat already has a plan in place. There were none and her frustration grew.
She turned to the side and sighed in relief at the sight of a plate of cookies. She quickly grabbed some and had Tikki eat it while her parents weren't looking.
As Tikki was eating Anya looked up just in time to see two giant bubbles coming in and taking her parents before any of the three could react.
"What the-?!"
"Eh?!"
"MAMA, PAPA!!" Anya cried out as her parents were taken away just as quickly. She ran out being stopped by the balcony as she watched her parents being carried to the sky screaming for Anya to run away and get to safety. To Anya's horror they weren't the only ones, what seemed like hundreds of Berlint citizens were in the sky shouting and crying. Begging to be let free. Anya was sure she caught a glimpse of Becky and her parents as well. She shook her head trying to snap herself into action. Tikki was finishing up the last cookie when Anya ran back inside.
"Anya I'm done! You need to transform!" She quickly flew around her chosen in a hurry.
With a nod, Anya quickly said the words. "TIKKI SPOTS ON!" As she was mid-transformation she jumped out of the balcony Ladybug emerged just before she was close to hitting the ground. She quickly twirled her yo-yo to the nearest building pulling herself away from the pavement in a flash. It gave her a slight whiplash but she had no time to waste.
The citizens of Berlint needed her.
-
Damian wasn't sure what shook him more. Knowing his friends were fused into one being or knowing they were likely akumatized because of him. They were essentially transforming all of Berlint into one huge birthday party just for him. He swallowed hard as everyone who was fighting back or refusing was being taken away into a prison. It was the sky but it might as well be a prison. Eventually, Bubbler got fed up and started locking up every citizen that wasn't present for Damian's birthday. Those that survived were being forced to party. It felt like witnessing a bunch of people turning into robots. Following a schedule trying to survive. Damian was free but at what cost? He tried to dance like everyone else was but his movements felt even more robotic than everyone else's. He wants to party. A huge party just for him? Of course he'd want that. But not like this! At the cost of Ewen and Emile. Blackbell and her family being trapped. The Forger's as well! His only console is that Anya seemed to have gotten away scot-free from it all. Knowing her parents they likely had her hide away while they were imprisoned. They were always protective of Anya like that. Damian casually slipped away from the robotic crowd as they began to pick up the pace in dancing as the song changed to a more upbeat one. The Bubbler stood tall towering over everyone, practically watching them like a hawk to make sure everyone was having fun on Damian's birthday. Of course, the birthday boy himself was being watched the most but they let him be once they realized he was just getting himself some punch. He was thirsty. As Damian pretended to sip on his drink he looked around trying to find a way to escape. "Plagg, I need you to help me here." He whispered to his Kwami. Said Kwami was already on it but he didn't know how to get away from the Bubbler's intense watch. Plagg couldn't even slip by to try and communicate with Damian properly without the fear of being spotted.
"This is a tough one kid."
Damian knew that but he wasn't going to give up. As he continued his scouting he felt something pull his pant leg. He looked down and blinked a couple of times. "Bond?!" He asked incredulously. He stared at Anya's big fluffy white dog as it sat and wagged its tail looking at Damian happily. He wasn't barking, he didn't even make a sound. Almost like he knew and stealthy came by to keep Damian company.
Once again Damian was shocked at how oddly smart this dog was.
Bond has been sleeping during the whole ordeal. But he woke up just in time to see his new owners be taken away by bubbles and to see Anya transform. He was sure he wasn't supposed to see that. Managing to sneak out of the house he made his way here and found Anya's friend.
It didn't take long for Bond to realize Damian was trapped. Every single human was trapped. And the enemy was in sight.
Damian patted his head. "I need your help buddy."
Bond looked at him determinedly.
"Think you can distract Bubbler?"
A distraction? That was Bond's specialty!
With a nod, he quickly sprinted away into the crowd trying to get as much attention to himself as possible. Bubbler eventually noticed the commotion.
"Hey! Who's dog is that?!" Bubbler growled and tried to attack Bond but he was quicker and jumped out of the way and essentially tackled Bubbler to the ground. He left out two barks and eyed Damian briefly.
Now's your chance! As if saying that Damian mouthed a thank you and booked it out of there.
Bubbler flung Bond who hit a table. He let out a whine and tried to get up but he wobbled in pain as he did. Letting out a growl, Bubbler's weapon materialized, instead of a Gatling gun though it was a wand. "Now you've done it mutt!" Before Bubbler could attack they were sent flying to the other side. They crashed against a tree splitting it in half.
"DON'T YOU DARE HURT THE DOG!" Ladybug in all her glory finally appeared. People began to cheer. But she looked anything but happy. Truthfully it's because seeing her dog get hurt wasn't a pleasant sight. Bond wagged his tail. His owner was here! He wasn't supposed to know but oh well.
Bubbler cackled getting up from their spot. "Well, well, well if it isn't the bug, how nice of you to show up!"
Ladybug narrowed her eyes. She couldn't find Damian anywhere. And how did Bond get here? She was sure he was still sleeping upstairs in her room like usual. She watched as Bond booked out of there to safety. She sighed in relief.
Bubbler readied up the Gatling gun. The muzzle spun, preparing to shoot. "We'll show you a fun time-!" They let out a shocked gasp setting down their weapon.
Ladybug, confused, looked at them and where they were standing. It was at a table full of beverages. What was so important about it? "Uh…?" Her confusion was evident. However, Bubbler began to shake, almost like they were about to explode.
"WHERE IS HE?!" The gun replaced itself with a wand and a huge bubble materialized itself making its way towards the table, consuming it until it started floating. "Not there… not there… not there… NOT THERE!!" Letting out an inhumane shriek, Ladybug got into a battle stance as Bubbler went, quite literally, apeshit. Her ears hurt now but she can't complain.
"Seems someone is angry."
Ladybug's eyes lit up. "Kitty!" She felt nothing but relief seeing Cat here.
He saluted her. "Good to know you held up well while I was busy." He unbuckled his baton.
"What were you doing?" She asked curiously as Bubbler suddenly decided they wanted to dual-wield and were both using the gun and the wand. It seemed they were that unhinged, Anya was sure that wasn't even possible.
"I hid Damian Desmond, he was essentially trapped here by the Akuma." Well really it was me but she doesn't need to know that.
She was glad to hear Damian was safe. Leave it to her Kitty to protect her friends. "Apparently this whole party is in his honor." She twirled her yo-yo. The only silver lining to this was that the decorations were out of this world. The balloons, the ribbons, the literal giant birthday cake. How the hell did they manage that?!
"I got a briefing when I busted him out of here, his friends were akumatized and I think that Gatling gun is the akumatized object." Damian knew due to watching the Akuma enter the bubble gun they were both holding. "So we have a two-for-one."
"Not sure how to feel about that." Ladybug dodged an incoming giant bubble being thrown their way. The Bubbler was ready for a fight. "I didn't know Hawk Moth could akumatize two people at once."
The barrage of bubble bullets started making their way toward them. They dodged the projectiles with ease. Cat jumped on top of a table, grabbing it from the edge and turning it over to use it as a shield. The bubble bullets began to pass through damaging it. Cat was glad he didn't let a single one hit him at that moment. "Jesus fucking christ." He muttered under his breath. He looked over to Bug who was busy parrying the giant bubbles being thrown her way. She made a good point about Hawk Moth and being able to akumatize two people at once. So far an Akuma has only ever been one person. And although difficult they always managed in the end.
This Akuma was different though. It seemed powerful but that was it. It only seemed so. It was far more distracted trying to find Damian instead of defeating them.
"Can't find him, can't find him, WE NEED TO FIND HIM!" The barrage of attacks thrown was chaotic. A series of bubbles and bullets were dodged and parried trying their best not to get hit. The attack would have seemed uncoordinated in an attempt to catch them off guard but Damian knew better.
"They're not thinking straight." He noted to which Bug acknowledged with a nod. They weren't getting any breaks from these projectiles. That's definitely where they were being beaten because Cat can't think straight and he knew Bug much less. He quickly pulled her towards the side and booked it down the park making their way toward the giant cake. Thinking quickly Cat extended his baton and hit a table making it go airborne for a few seconds before sending it flying toward Bubbler as if it was a baseball. It hit them and only hindered their movements temporarily. He dragged Ladybug under one of the tables to catch their breath.
Ladybug could feel the exhaustion overtake her as soon as she hit the ground. "I'm getting tired!" She never thought an Akuma would exhaust her this much. It wasn't that long ago that Gloomy Weather attacked too.
Cat nodded. "I know but we have to persist, they have a glaring weakness and we have to take advantage of it." He smirked slightly and peeked out to see Bubbler looking everywhere for them in a frenzy. Bubbler was getting impatient, they didn't want to deal with Ladybug and Cat because it takes away from finding Damian. A plan slowly forms in Cat's mind.
Ladybug nodded eagerly. "I think I know what you mean!" She peeked out as well. "They want Damian Desmond." They can't have him though.
Cat snapped his fingers. "Bingo, we just have to give them what they want."
Ladybug quickly shook her head. "Absolutely not! We're not using Damian as cannon fodder!" Like hell I'll expose him!
Cat paused and looked at her in surprise. "I mean yeah I understand that but at least let me finish before you decide to get upset." Didn't think she'd get that mad.
She calmed herself down trying not to accidentally expose her identity. "Sorry I just don't like the idea of using civilians."
"I understand that I don't either, anyway as I was saying we should 'give' them what they want, and while they're distracted you run in and take the akumatized object." Next part of that was simple, she tosses it to him, he breaks it, frees the Akuma, she purifies and that's that, Berlint is saved! For now, that is.
"How do we do that?" She asked curiously.
"I'll lure them to where I hid Damian-" He paused, noticing her glare. "It won't be where I actually hid him!" He exclaimed to which she stopped glaring at him. He rolled his eyes. I'm literally fine!
"I lure them and you sneak attack."
"That's it? One of your weaker ideas." She chuckled.
Cat frowned. "I'm trying here! I don't have the brain power to think of a better plan, I just know the Akuma has a glaring weakness." He was spent and tired. Bug doesn't know that though. He just wants this fight to be over with, save his friends.
Ladybug looked at him in concern. "Are you okay?"
The question caused Cat to flinch slightly. "I… yeah I'm okay." It's not like my friends are akumatized and it's all my fault. If I had just been stronger then…
Ladybug placed her hand on his, giving him a tight squeeze she smiled slightly in reassurance. "I don't know what you're going through but I'm here for you."
Cat felt his heart stop at that moment. He's heard similar words before. Anya. He cleared his throat as a blush threatened to appear. "Thanks, Bug." He gave her a genuine smile. He appreciated the fact that she was willing to comfort him despite the ongoing battle that was happening at the moment. There was no time for Damian to feel sorry for himself. Berlint needed him. "We should-" He was interrupted as soon as Bubbler lifted the table and sent it flying looking down on them menacingly.
"Found you." Their voice sounded more distorted than before. Ladybug and Cat felt a shiver go down their spine. They both jumped out of the way as soon as Bubbler struck the area they were in with his wand. A growl escaped their lips. "You two won't get far!"
"HA! As if you could defeat us!" Ladybug threw her yo-yo at Bubbler. In response, they materialized a huge bubble. The yo-yo hit it, bouncing it back towards her. "HUH?!" Before the yo-yo could hit her Cat jumped in and hit it out of the way with his baton.
"Well, that could have been bad." He noted. Were the bubbles getting stronger? He didn't recall them being able to do that.
Ladybug snapped out of her momentary stupor. "I'm getting a bad feeling about this."
"We're tired of this game, we'll end it right here and RIGHT NOW!" With a bellow, Bubbler fired another bubble that both Ladybug and Cat were ready to dodge when with a snap of their finger it burst into tiny ones immediately flying around Ladybug and Cat trapping them into one huge bubble.
"What the-"
"Hey!"
Cat starts smashing the bubble but to no avail, it won't burst. Like it was made of metal.
Bubbler laughed. "This way you won't get in our way! Lord Damian will have a fun day and we won't let ANYONE ruin it!!"
Cat smashed the bubble one last time in frustration. "DO YOU EVEN HEAR YOURSELVES?! IS THIS TRULY WHAT DAMIAN WOULD HAVE WANTED?!!" He knew the answer to that question. He doesn't and never will.
Bubbler didn't like that though as they glared at Cat. "What do you know! ONLY WE KNOW WHAT LORD DAMIAN TRULY WANTS!!"
"AND WHAT IS THAT?!"
"FREEDOM!!"
That answer shook both Cat and Ladybug.
"If freedom is what he wants, freedom is what he'll get! We'll free him from the shackles Donovan Desmond has him in! But first, he must enjoy his special day!" Bubbler walked up to the bubble with a smirk. "And to achieve that we'll get RID OF YOU!" With a sudden strong kick, Bubbler sends them flying up in the sky. Both teens let out a scream.
"I hope you know what you're doing Bubbler."
"Relax Hawky, we have it under control."
Hawk Moth was not amused by that.
-
"Well, this is just great! Now we're stuck!" Cat struggled against the unburstable bubble.
Ladybug watched as Cat seemed to be losing it. "Cat."
"WHAT?!" He screamed, which took Ladybug by surprise. She's never seen him this way before.
Deja vu my old friend. "Kitty, you need to calm down." She advised him. Advice she was sure would go unheard. Sure enough, he just glared at her and proceeded to still struggle. I think this only works on Damian. She sighed and looked down. She wasn't usually afraid of heights but… they were really high up. She didn't know why her partner seemed so frustrated and angry today but she couldn't exactly blame him as she too felt the same way. "You know…" She began, she had Cat's attention even if it didn't seem like it.
"I had the Akuma in sight and I tried freeing Damian earlier but I couldn't give chase because my Kwami ran out of stamina… I couldn't feed her- no more like I didn't pay attention to that. It's not that I can't afford sweets, they're just not the good quality kind and Tikki has refined tastes- not that I'll hold that against her. I'm sure she holds back a lot because of that…" She trailed off, hugging her knees closer to her chest. "I feel like a terrible miraculous holder." She admitted, wiping away a few tears.
Cat's gaze softened, he understood that more than anyone. He was almost ready to quit a few days ago. "I almost quit too."
Ladybug looked at him with wide eyes. "You?! Why?? You're the best miraculous holder ever! Without you, I'd be lost!" She blurted out her praises without stopping.
Cat blushed slightly and smiled. "I'm not perfect Bug, I've come to terms with that."
Ladybug paused and looked at him in understanding. "You're imperfectly perfect Kitty! And I like you just the way you are."
Imperfectly perfect, where have I heard that before? Cat let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. He felt a little lighter. "Thanks, Bug, I like you just the way you are too, the perfect chaotic partner."
Ladybug playfully punched his shoulder and laughed. "I bring the fun to the battlefield." She dramatically flipped her hair.
Cat rolled his eyes in amusement. "Of course you do." There was a bit of comfortable silence that followed until Cat realized something. "Uh… I could just use my cataclysm."
…
"Oh yeaaah." Ladybug replied.
They stared at each other for a few seconds before bursting into laughter.
"I'm dumb."
"I didn't think of that either."
After settling down Cat quickly activated his power. "Cataclysm!" His hand came into contact with the bubble immediately bursting it. They now found themselves plummeting down.
"MAYBE WE SHOULD HAVE THOUGHT THIS THROUGH!"
"I KNOW!!" Thinking quickly, Cat grabbed his baton and looked around. He noticed two tall buildings nearby. "LADYBUG!" He pointed towards the buildings. Ladybug instantly recognized what he was trying to imply. With that, he extended his baton somewhat and threw it as hard as he could, wedging it in between.
Ladybug quickly grabbed Cat and twirled her yo-yo wrapping it around the baton. With a firm grasp, they were pulled towards the alleyway and dangled a bit in the air before Cat's baton started sliding down. They fell to the ground with a thud. The baton gave out and fell on them but Cat quickly caught it before it could hit anyone in the head.
"That's the second time I almost fall to my death."
"Excuse me what?!"
-
Hawk Moth watched from his lair feeling impatient. Bubbler wasn't doing what they were told. "Bubbler, remember the deal!"
"Can it Hawky! Ladybug and Black Cat are trapped in the sky, you'll get them soon!" Bubbler let out a muttered sheesh and continued their search for Damian.
Hawk Moth, not liking their defiance, held his hand up and squeezed it. Such an action had Bubbler suspended choking for air. "Listen closely Bubbler, such defiance isn't needed, it's not wanted, do yourself a favor, and don't anger me again." He let them go.
Bubbler started coughing and heaving trying to recover the loss of air. "Jesus Hawky… calm down." Bubbler held their throat in pain.
-
Ladybug and Cat landed on a rooftop after trying to track down Bubbler for a while.
"So about my plan-" Cat began and was rudely interrupted.
"WHAT ARE YOU TWO DOING FREE?!" Bubbler bellowed.
"Well, they found us." Ladybug said as she twirled her yo-yo ready to fight.
Bubbler didn't hesitate to begin firing at them with its Gatling gun. Ladybug and Cat were back to dodging the projectiles. They hadn't fully recovered from earlier to boot which isn't helping with the ever-growing fatigue Bubbler was causing them. The bubbles began to pile and consume themselves turning into giant versions of themselves. These were harder to evade as hitting them wasn't an option, it was like they were made of metal and thus only caused their weapons to bounce back. Cat went in up close in personal fighting Bubbler with his baton. Suddenly he was grateful for the fencing lessons, it wasn't the same thing but it was close enough.
"You two are a pain!" Bubbler snapped their fingers, more giant bubbles materializing gathering any stray civilian in the area. The ones already in the sky were watching as more people joined in. "As punishment, I'll send them ALL TO OUTER SPACE!" Another snap and everyone went zooming up.
"NO!" Ladybug and Cat screamed out as Bubbler laughed maniacally.
Cat glowered and looked at Ladybug. "Fuck the plan! Bug your lucky charm!"
"LUCKY CHARM!!" Activating her power Ladybug received a dog treat. At first glance, it seemed real, like the ones she gives to Bond whenever he's being a good boy. However, with a simple squeeze, she can tell it's more akin to a realistic chew toy.
"A dog treat…?" Cat looked at the item in her hand questioningly. "Well… lucky charm never failed us before."
She giggled. "Of course! Just trust me." She winked and looked around but couldn't find anything that could help her achieve what she wanted. "Ugh, no plan is coming to me."
"I'll take Bubbler on while you think of something." Cat jumped into action to give Ladybug time to think. The literal 'sword' fight that ensued with some projectiles being launched was handled well despite the fatigue.
Ladybug looked around, twisted, and turned, but she couldn't find anything. Almost like something is missing-
"Worf."
She blinked and looked down. "B-Bond?!" As soon as her eyes landed on an eager and ready Bond a plan began to form. She gasped. "I GOT IT!" At that moment Cat went flying past her and crash-landed on a bench.
"Good because I just got my ass handed to me." He groaned as he sat up. She ran over to help him up. He accepted her hand. "Alright, what's the plan?"
"Simple! The doggy!" She pointed at Bond who continued wagging its tail.
"You're still here?!" Cat looked at the dog in disbelief. Bond is something else.
"We're doing your plan but with Bond!"
"Noted."
They got into position, Cat jumping up to a nearby balcony. "Alright Bubbler, if Damian Desmond is who you want, I'll give him to you!" He jumped off and started parkouring from balcony to balcony. Bubbler gave chase as they predicated. Ladybug subtly follows behind.
They landed on a rooftop.
"GIVE US LORD DAMIAN!" Bubbler sent more projectiles Cat's way. He dodged them with ease.
Cat smirked. "Sure but first-!" He signaled to Ladybug.
She tossed the treat and then flung it towards Bubbler who turned around only to get smacked by it. "Fetch!" On cue Bond in all his glory jumped and tackled Bubbler who let go of his weapon from the sudden weight.
"GET OFF US YOU MUTT!!" Bubbler struggled almost punting off Bond but he jumped out of the way just in time with the dog treat in his mouth.
Ladybug grabbed the akumatized object with her yo-yo and tossed it to Cat who readied his baton and smashed it in the air in half. The Akuma flew out. "Time to purify the forces of evil!" She happily declared as she opened the compartment in her yo-yo and quickly grabbed the Akuma purifying it. A white butterfly emerged. "Bye-bye!"
Bond let out a happy bark, and the dog treat turned into mini ladybugs and disappeared. Bubbler turned back into Ewen and Emile who were laying on the ground disoriented. The bubbles in the air holding people descended towards the ground and promptly popped freeing everyone confided in them.
"Another day is saved thanks to Ladybug and Black Cat!" Ladybug declared as she bumped fists with Cat. She paused, feeling a little odd. "Eh, that doesn't sound great."
Cat shrugged. "I mean I like it."
"Of course you do! You're too simple!"
"Huh?!"
"Even your name is simple!"
"Oh like yours isn't!"
Ladybug gasped, feeling offended but Cat was right. Her name was too simple. "Well-" She was interrupted.
"Cat!!" Two voices called out.
Cat turned around and was bombarded by Ewen and Emile. "Uh…"
"We're your biggest fans!!"
"Yeah, you're so cool!!"
Cat blushed. "Th-Thanks." Oh my god.
"Thank you for saving us!" They said in unison.
Cat nodded. "Just doing my duty."
"Can we take a selfie with you?"
"Yeah, we want to show our friend Damian! It's his birthday! He'll be so happy!"
Cat smiled, feeling tears threatening to spill. "Of course! Anything for my number one fans!"
The boys cheered as the selfie was taken.
Ladybug let out a sigh watching the scene feeling nothing but pure joy.
-
"And that's what happened, I hid and Bond somehow got out." Anya finished her dramatic tale of how she hid in her room and Bond ended up slipping away. Bond merely barked, he knew her secret but even if he could talk he would never tell.
A party was brewing at the Forger residence. After the mess and clean up, that was the Bubbler incident. School was canceled for the day and Damian for once was allowed free time. Naturally, they all went to the Forger's. Ewen and Emile couldn't remember much when being akumatized but knowing they became one being was rather weird and cool at the same time. Cake was being eaten, the lights of the candle having been blown out minutes prior. Damian finally got his wish, a birthday party with his friends.
Everyone sat around hearing Anya's tale of escaping bubble prison.
"It was rather frightening being in the air like that." Becky lamented while eating.
"Sorry." Ewen and Emile said in unison. Hearing about their akumatization was something else. Knowing they were practically acting like Damian fanboys was also something they knew they were never going to live down.
"It wasn't your fault boys, you two were akumatized,'' Loid said, reassuring the boys.
"Yeah what Papa said!"
"Worf!"
A laugh was shared amongst everyone. The party continued for a few more minutes before it was time for everyone to head home. Damian was waiting for his ride out the front. Anya came out holding something behind her.
"Sy-on boy!"
"Hm?"
"Happy birthday!" She presented him with a sunflower. "This is your secret gift! I planted it myself."
Damian stared at the flower with wide eyes. It wasn't anything fancy like all the other things he's been gifted today. It wasn't even anything big like the giant custom plushie Ewen and Emile unironically got him. And yet it meant so much to him. He grabbed the potted flower with a smile. "Thanks, Anya, I love it."
Her eyes shined. "I'm glad!"
His limo arrived. "Ride is here, I'll see you at school?" That came out as a question rather than a fact.
Anya nodded eagerly. "Of course! See you at school Damian!" She waved goodbye and ran back inside.
Damian's heart skipped a beat as Jeeves opened the door and let him in. He hoped he couldn't notice the growing blush on his face. He held the potted sunflower close to his chest. To his heart.
"Did you have a good birthday Master Damian?"
"The best."
…
"Would you like to go anywhere?"
There was a pause before Damian nodded. "Yeah… Berlint private hospital please." Nothing more was said as the limo turned around and made its way to the hospital. When they arrived Damian felt a wave of anxiety but brushed it off as he got out of the limo and walked in. He didn't have to wait for long and was allowed in.
When Damian opened the door he was greeted with the sound of beeping from multiple monitors. He walked in and closed the door behind him letting out a shaky breath. He walked closer to the bed where a woman lay looking pale and fragile. Plagg peered out from his hiding spot completely taken aback.
Damian stood by her and slowly grabbed her hand. "Hello, mother." He breathed in and out. "Today is my birthday and despite an Akuma attack I had a fun day with my friends and the Forger's, they're really nice." The beeping sounds continued to fill in the silence.
"Anya gave me a sunflower… those were your favorites." He let out a small laugh. More beeping, silence. "Father is still the same but colder… and Demetrius is distant, he didn't even call me." He shrugged that off though, he was never that close to Demetrius anyway.
Even more silence.
A single strangled sob could be heard.
"Please wake up."
Suddenly Plagg understood who the 'she' in question was.
It was his mom.
…
Oh man this one took a long time to write, edit and all that lmao
So it's why I'm not uploading this on a Friday which is when I usually upload
Anyway, surprise!
I actually had to rewrite this chapter because I didn't like the first draft lol
I wanted to convey how unstable Damian was
I hope the ending is enough to answer that question
We got some flashbacks and a bit of backstory~
Also if it seems crazy for Bubbler to have a gatling gun, it is but it's funny lol
The original episode's fight scene was so short and boring so I didn't have much to work with so I hope I did it justice
Also Bond just had to be the MVP
The timing is great considering the anime introduced him recently!
The scene with the boys playing left for dead 2 was a fun one! It was playing out in my head vividly it was great lol
Also hope you guys like the new title
I wanna thank the commenter who called Anya and Damian, Anyabug and Damicat because those names are the best, shout out to you!
Next chapter: Madame Wifi
