A/N: I'm going to go back and rewrite the first chapter to make the flow work and create a timeline. Honestly this was only supposed to be a one or two shot, but not I'm up to seven chapters. How?
Your Prince is in Another Castle: Chapter 7: Allies to the Prince
You can never tell a sinner from a saint or a friend from an enemy.
Intimidating.
From the moment he had come to the school he couldn't help feel a twist in his stomach. Like a small animal making his way into a den of bigger predators. The pressure of being in unknown and possibly dangerous territory if he was caught and exposed to those that dwelled in the area. For days he had passed by the school. First at the gate that separated the school from the city. Even just standing in front of the gate, or walking past it, made him feel small. And when school had let out and the students exited to go home did the feeling magnify and he ended up speed walking away so he wouldn't notice. After a few more times of watching and waiting he spotted a head of gold, once thought lost.
After that he had made the choice.
During study break he left school and made his way to College Voltaire. He had wandered, by some chance, if he would be able to spot the other again. Students would be having study break and he could go onto the campus.
Simple. Right?
He barely was on the campus for ten minutes before he found himself suddenly grabbed and taken to a room in the school. Guess it was one way to get inside. And once there he was face to face with...
"Marx Blood.", a dark rouge eye looked down at the young man brought to him by the hall monitors on duty, "I'm the head of the disciplinary committee.", with a badge on his blazer with the schools crest on it and the word 'hall monitor' engraved.
"We found him roaming around on the school grounds.", some students had reported seeing a figure and got suspicious when it looked like he was lost.
"None of the students recognized him and he didn't have an ID on him.", so they brought him to the office.
As the young man, Marx, spoke with his subordinates. Another student, a smaller, more timid figure had come up to Nathaniel. He was the shortest among the group, with short dark blue hair that had a cow lick at the top. Their dark blue eye seemed soft, though with a timid energy around them. They hadn't said much, but offered him refreshments and aid if needed. Even giving him a bottle of water before going to stand by the red headed hall monitor.
"Who are you?", Marx questioned, "You had no I.D on you and it's unsure if your a student here."
"I'm...ugh not a student here.", he admitted, "My name is Nathaniel. I go to College Francis Dupont."
"The akuma school?", it had become a sticking title. Now more than ever. With the high number of akumatized individuals that came from the school. Including staff, students, and even parents, the school was labeled as the akuma school. The art student hadn't missed other students commenting about their class in general. Given that almost every student, including the teacher, had been akumatized either one or more times. First in passing, then as a tease, and now it was practically an insult. And it looks like the name was spreading outside the school walls.
"Why are you here?", not many people with common sense would be sneaking around the school without reason, "Since you aren't a student your trespassing on school grounds without permission.", which was basically a criminal offense if he was proven to be up to anything malicious.
"I came looking for someone and I found out he goes here.", he said, "...one of my old classmates transferred here."
"An old classmate."
Nathaniel nodded.
"If you were just coming to look for your classmate, why did you sneaking around?", Marx questioned, "You could have gone to the main office or waited after school hours.", there were simple options that basically trespassing on private property.
"Well I...", he paused for a moment, "He doesn't know I was coming.", or that he even knew he knew they attended the school. Honestly he was just shocked he was able to make it this far.
"So you came to the campus to see a former classmate without his knowledge. And do what exactly?"
"I-didn't really...have anything planned.", admittedly he was just going through the motions and coming up with a plan as he went along.
"And just who is this person you were trying to 'surprise'?",
"Um...Adrien Agreste.", the name came out foreign on his tongue.
Marx was silent, his red gaze looking down on the the other boy. Though unreadable and seemingly calm, Nathaniel couldn't help feel like he was being judge. After being caught and taken to a room and brought before the head of the disciplinary commission. He felt small and helpless.
"I know it sounds strange-I mean not strange, but you know out of the blue. But, I honestly just came to see him. We are-were, friends. And we went to school together.", and now he was rambling.
"And you decided to sneak onto school grounds. You couldn't wait to school was done or go to house?"
"Well...", both those were off the table. If he tried either of those it would just lead to him hitting a wall. A wall the size of a gorilla and an attitude to match. He had heard rumor of his classmates trying in vain to go to the models home. Only to be literally chased away by Adrien's bodyguard's and even his own fans, "Look. I know what I did might have been the smartest thing to do, but I really need to speak to him. I swear I'm not an overly obsessed fan or stalker or anyone wanting to do anything malicious.", he promised, "I have some information. But, I really need to see him."
Through his entire speech Marx had silently watched him. His arms held behind his back and his posture firmly straight. His gaze never wavering and his expression never changing.
"Ester.", the shorter individual perked up hearing their name.
"Yes sir?"
"Go to the main office and have Inari, Vyga, and Ambrosius come to the Hall Monitor Office.", he ordered.
"Yes!", Ester wasted no time to complete the task they were given.
"As for you.", he looked to Nathaniel, "This better be good."
A took ten minutes to round up the individuals and have them report to the main office of the hall monitor. Each individual pulled from their classes and told without much information that they were requested.
"Did you blow up the science lab again?", Yue questioned. He was in the middle of his literature class when he was called out and sent the main office.
"Nope.", the green haired male grinned, crossing his fingers into an 'X' and giving a buzzer sound, "Haven't been in the science lab since the last accident.", he was basically banned from entering without being in class, "And you?", what could the Ice Prince of Paris done to be called by the schools disciplinary committee?
"Nothing I know of.", nor would he admit to without proof, "Marx sent his assistant to come and fetch me.
"Me too!", Vyga beamed, "Guess I'm not in trouble.", he exhaled.
"Well whatever it is it must be serious. Especially if the red sheep sent his little birdie out personally.", Clovis was sitting on one of the desk, powdering his cheeks in his compact mirror, "I was in the middle of approving footage when I got called away.". he was in charge of the final drafts, all of which required his seal of approval.
"Marx wouldn't just call us for no reason.", it had to be something serious if it evolved the three of them specifically and at the same time.
"It better.", he snapped the compact closed.
Just then the door to the room opened. Three pairs of eyes looked to see Marx having walked through the door with Ester close behind. Followed by a young man, a red head, they hadn't expected to see.
"I see you all managed to make it one time.", Marx spoke seeing the three individuals.
"Not much of a choice.", it wasn't like they could ignore a call from the head of the disciplinary committee.
"You have a reason for pulling us here.", Clovis said, eyes scanning between Marx and the other red head.
"Before that.", he motioned the red haired young man, "This is Nathaniel."
"H-Hi."
"Yo!", Vyga greeted the new comer. Nathaniel seemed instantly shocked by the other's energy, finding his hand grabbed and being being held ecstatically, "Are you a new student? Welcome to College Voltaire! I'm Lyre Vyga or Vyga is cool to. You can also call me V, Vy, or Lyre, but not so much.", his speech was going a mile a minute that it looked like the red heads brain would explode. The young man was taller than him, with long impossibly bright neon green hair that was held back in a long pony tail and held back with a pair of goggles that acted as a makeshift headband.
"That's enough out of you.", Clovis grabbed the green haired boy by his collar and yanked him back, "Did you really call us in here to introduce some new student?", the school had greeters for that and students who gave tours to new students. Nathaniel watched the exchange and noted the other's demeanor. The blond could give Chloe a run for her money with the attitude and dressed to the point where they might seem like siblings with the amount of yellow and black they wore. The standout being those golden yellow eyes.
"I was getting to that.", Marx cleared his throat, "He isn't a new student. He was caught earlier sneaking onto the school grounds.", he explained, "He says he has some information about a student who goes here. Apparently they used to be classmates."
"Still doesn't explain why you called us here."
"Again getting to that.", Marx looked at Nathaniel who gave a silent look of understanding.
After a deep breath he addressed the others in the room. Noting their gazes and feeling his stomach wiggle with butterflies.
"I guess I should start from the beginning.", Nathanial exhaled, "My name is Nathaniel and like you were told I don't go to this school. I'm a student from College Dupont Francis."
"The akuma school?"
Guess he should expect that from now on.
"Yeah...that place.", he continued, "I came here because an old classmate transferred him a couple of weeks ago. And I wanted to, I thought, I could speak to him."
"He claimed that he was classmates with one of the students here. Adrien Agreste."
"The Sunshine Prince?"
"I thought he might be some kind of fan that was trying to get to Adrien. But, evidence has proven these claims legitimate.", with Nathaniel having pictures to prove his claims of him and Adrien being from the same school.
"Interesting.", Clovis noted, "While it still doesn't explain why we we're brought in here. Having one from SP's old haunts is rather out of the blue."
"Aside from that. Why would one of his old classmates be here?", Yue had questioned. His gaze fixed on the red head intruder.
"Has Adrien told you why he was transferred from his old school?", Nathaniel asked, carefully not to agitate the white haired male. Just a look from him made Nathaniel feel like a chicken cornered by a fox. Like the other four he, Yue, had an energy about him. Domineering and dangerous hidden beneath a veil of calm and collective enigma that would catch anyone's eyes.
"Not what I asked.", he didn't ask for a question for a question, "Am I right to assume that your here because of your former classmate."
Nathaniel gave a slow nod, "Yeah. I am."
"And the fact you couldn't call or contact him other than coming uninvited onto school grounds without his knowledge."
"I know it looks bad and I swear I didn't want to cause any trouble.", and was doing his best to tread carefully among these individuals, "I came because I want to help Adrien. And I brought help.", opening his back-pack he revealed a small item. That suddenly moved before flying out.
"Look at that!", Vyga beamed seeing Markov, his eyes literally lighting up with excitement. Even for a small robot he could see it had advanced engineering aspects. Bringing his googles down he began scanning over the little robot.
"That's is Markov.", Nathanial said, "He's a robot one of the other members of my class built. I 'borrowed' him.", or rather took him without truthful consent. Telling Max he needed to the little robot for an idea he had for the comic. Smuggling the little machine in his backpack and taking him with me.
Clovis seemed mildly impressed, "And here I was under the impression your class had a single brain cell among yourselves.", at least when it came to perception and seeing the obvious.
"I remembered that Markov is programmed to record the classes.", in case important information was needed, "He recorded the incident.", and it was saved into his system.
"Markov is programmed for both audio and recording capabilities for max capacities.", Markov stated with a computerized voice.
"His spec's are quite remarkable.", Vyga commented as he continued his analyzes of the small robot.
"I wanted to go to the Agreste Mansion, but Adrien's father isn't exactly thrilled when anyone from his son's old class comes by.", most of the students being chased away by the Gorilla. A few of them actually carried away from the mansion by the large bodyguard who looked like he would have no qualms of smashing any of them. Not even Chloe could make it through. And he was sure he would have the same luck if he dared to try.
"Ever since Adrien transferred the whole school has turned upside down. The entire study body hates anyone in the class and aren't afraid to show it.", having witnessed a number of pranks and 'accidents' that had befallen his classmates. From tripping's in the hall, graffiti on their lockers, and even having some of their items missing. Only to find them in odd places like the toilet in the restrooms, "Even with all that they're too delusional to figure out that it's because of them.", it was both sad and infuriating, "Even the teacher is completely oblivious and was trying to put a band-aid on the situation.", which only made things worse because they're didn't seem to be an adult with a brain-cell in that whole school. San's maybe Mlle. Mendeleev and Monsieur Armond. He didn't even know if they knew what happened in the classroom or the assault. And that was terrifying.
"And how you figure Adrien was here?"
"I...um found his account. The Sunshine Prince.", it was a popular account at College Francis Dupont. It was new, but the students at the school checked on it regularly. Girls gushing and fawning over the pictures posted on the account. Though his classmates were oblivious and keeping their heads in the smoke, Nathanial was not going to be choked. Nor was he going to be led into the slaughter. And after some convincing, and begging, with Marc and the students from Mlle. Mendeleev's class, he was able to get access to the accounts. Shocked and surprised seeing his former classmate. After confirming that it was Adrien's account he silently followed it without his classmates knowledge. Slowly distancing himself from the group he had once called his friends. Giving any and every excuse possible to exclude himself from any outing and activity that had attempted to put together. He couldn't even be around Rose, Juleka, or Alix. Three of his oldest friends. Knowing they while they weren't as bad, he couldn't risk them ratting him out since that were still under the liar's spell. Though for how long was the question.
But, he couldn't wait. Not anymore.
He had seen how the Italian girl operated. How she slithered her way into people's lives and openly lied. Being away gave him enough space to do his own investigation. Researching everything she had claimed and finding enough evidence with a simple google search that proved she was full of crap. It made him sicker than the stomach flu he had been bedridden with. And having seen what she did to Adrien, one of the most innocent souls in class, it made him literally vomit.
"So why are you here now?", Yue questioned, "You've also been following us for a couple of days.", it wasn't hard to notice a head of red hair like that. It was even brighter than Marx's own rouge locks.
"Because I want to do something.", he said, "Ever since Adrien left the school has turned.", there was a shadow that feel over the school. Like something bad was going to happen and it wasn't going to be pretty, "I know you might not trust me and I can understand.", he really could, "But, I...I want to make things right."
"So your trying to save your own skin?"
Nathanael shook his head, "I know I didn't do anything to Adrien.", as far as the assault in the classroom he was absent, "But, when I actually saw what that lying bitch, that monster, turned my classmates into.", he knew it had went way over the edge, "Worse is they still don't see that were used and how bad they've gotten. They think those pranks are just immature jokes or acts of sticking up for victims. The teacher won't even step is because she takes the word of her own students and is overly passive that we can 'works things out' through kindness and understanding.", and it was only going to get worse, "I'm afraid to even speak out because whose to say she won't turn the class on me or anyone else.", like Marc or anyone else he cared about, "And trust me when I say Rossi can do a lot of damage.", of which he as partially guilty of, if only not thinking for himself and buying into dribble that spewed from the girls mouth.
"I know Adrien's never going to forgive me. But...I want to at least try to help him.", if only to take down that evil witch and those who hurt him.
The four individuals looked at each other. Silently conversing before looking back at Nathaniel.
"Vyga you and Clovis can handle social media assault.", being part of the computer and AV departments Vyga was a wiz when it came to electronics and systems. And one of his specialties was hacking. Clovis was a social media presence with a large following on multi-platforms. And being the lead of the B'zz Channel for reporting news and various information to millions of subscribers and viewers a day.
"You said the robot video-tapped Adrien's former classmates assaulting him. On the word of that girl."
Nathanael nodded. He had seen and heard it with his own eyes. The images forever burned into his brain. But, fueled his resolve to get justice for his former classmates and bring an end to the liar's rule.
"Vyga can you get the information from the robot?"
"Can I?", Vyga nodded, "Of course!", looking at Markov he gave a thumbs up and smile, "Wanna come with me?"
"If it is to help friend Adrien, than Markov will provide any information available.", the little robot stated.
"This will just be a minute.", taking out his phone he began accessing his own private server to interface with Markov and download the information from his hard drive.
"What else can you tell us about 'her'."
"Besides being a total fraud...she's basically a liar.", in every sense of the word, "She hasn't been in the school long, but she got popular really quick. Mostly because she told a bunch of stories of her travels, how her parents are diplomats, and how she has connections to a bunch of celebrities.", claiming she had met and aided some famous celebrity in some way and became instant friends with them.
"And people just believed that?"
"Forget braincells. At this point they might as well be brain dead if their willing to believe anything without proof.", that was delving into the pool of ignorance.
"It's not just believing stories about traveling to foreign countries, visiting palaces with princes to make environmental bills, or saving cats from tarmacs of private planes."
"Have they never heard of Google?", or they were just too lazy to look and just took everything at face value.
"Rossi could tell them she once went to the moon and they believe it.", because she could make people, at least at the school, believe anything, "She's gotten people to believe she does charity work so she has to miss school and that she she's super close to Ladybug. So much she gives her advice about picking heroes."
"So besides a liar, she's a moron.", the stories she was telling were not only unbelievable to anyone with an IQ who wasn't an elementary school student or lack access to the interment or even common sense. But, she was essentially putting herself in danger with her over the top claims. Opening herself up to, "This will be a field day.", it was almost sad.
"Surprised you didn't already go after her head.", usually Clovis tore individuals like her down for lunch.
"Honestly this whatever she is, was so far off my radar.", it wasn't worth it, "Wasting my time going after some no name coat rider looking for her her fifteen minutes of fame.", he had better things to do then waste resources and time on something so boring.
"...I still can't believe I actually believed her.", though not as much, he didn't exactly break his neck or try to look into her stories.
"You can have your mental break on your own time.", for now they needed to focus on bigger fish or rather a vermin in faux fox skin.
"Marx and I will handle the business portion.", with their families connections the two could make a few contacts in places no one could imagine. The Italian brat and anyone affiliated with them would be ruined with a simple phone call from either one of their families. Which if the information about her was correct than there wouldn't be too far to look.
"And the video?", couldn't they just release that? If they brought it to the police they could arrest her or charge her.
"If she knows the video exists then it gives the little vermin a chance to turn tail and hide.", once danger was present the prey would seek shelter until it was deemed safe, "As long as she thinks she's in the clear than she'll be easy once she's surrounded.", with no escape save for a jump off a cliff, "However, it shouldn't be a swift, nor should it be too slow.", it just had to come and be enough to make all content once it was finished.
"Of course they'll be upset. That's the point.", for the prey not to know their prey, "As long as no in that group know of the videos existence than it will allow the forces against the guilty party to grow.", until it reaches a point that no amount of running or fighting will save them, "Trapped in a never ending cycle of isolation and confusion. Finding all they once held so relevant crumbling in their hands.", until it was too late. The ropes would tighten and their would be nothing they could do to save themselves, let alone each other.
"I got the video.", Vyga confirmed and showing his phone with a completed download screen.
"Hold on to it.", it was going to be needed, "For now we focus on the next phase.", each step would be swift, but precise. Aimed at every weak point available and pressed until they break like fragile glass.
"Before this ends I will have that bitches head mounted.", or whatever he deemed with what was left of her.
If she wanted attention. Then who were they not to oblige and give her exactly what she wanted.
"Vyga you're up first."
The inventor grinned a cheerful smile, flashing a dual piece sign.
"Game on!"
Phase One: Green Glitch
For Vyga's part he was tasked with operating and attacking from behind the screen. Using his computer skills and with the assistance of the robotic Markov, he was given access to the accounts on Francis Dupont. Mostly because the system, while encrypted, was standard for schools and had it's fair share of weaknesses. And once he was inside he began his rampage. First was going through the schools records and files. Gaining access to the inboxes of teachers, club accounts, and even the records for all staff and students. Focusing primarily on the class of one Mlle. Bustier. Pulling up records, reports, and any electronic paperwork within. Once he got what he was looking for he was on to his next infiltration.
Nathaniel watched with Marc and Aurora as the scene took place. Students had been coming up to the blogger, ranting about her blog. Or rather what their blog did to their phones. After clicking the link for a new upload to the site and no sooner did their devices catch a bug before completely freezing up or just crashing on together. And from the sounds of it the so-called reporter was getting overwhelmed with the amount of backlash she was getting from the upset students. Unable to explain what had happened or why, but promised to look into it and fix it. Which didn't mean much to her unhappy subscribers and viewers who were flooding her blogs with negative reviews. The real kicker came when a video was posted on 'Breaking News in Paris', a blog that reported and researched stories around the city. The host, Donny Morgan's, reported on the stories and gave insight into what was fact and fiction. Giving an unbiased review and study of the stories before giving his final statement.
And right now he was giving a new, special report,
'Good morning to my lovely viewers.", Donny greeted, "It looks a bug has made it's way around Paris. A cyber-bug to be exact. Hundreds have reported experience freezing and even complete shut-down of their devices. All after clicking a link connected to the Ladyblog.", with the image of a sick computer with a cooling bag on the top it's monitor and thermometer in it's mouth, "People are being advised to not click on the link and to avoid the blog with extreme caution.", less they risk losing their entire electronic device, "We'll have continuous coverage as more information is made unavailable. This has been Donny Morgan's, with a Special Breaking New's Report.'
Suffice to say after the story broke Ceasire was in a complete funk for the rest of the day. Many of their classmates tried to comfort her for the bad luck she was having. If only they knew it was just the beginning.
Soon various electrical mishap's had befallen the class. From glitching tablets forcing them to hand write their notes in class, their phones that went off during lessons forcing confiscation by the teachers, and even the wi-fi going out during class time making the computers completely unusable. Even Mlle. Bustier was finding it hard to use her equipment in class. The projector would glitch off and on, the monitor would open and shut by itself, and one time during a presentation the video transitioned from history to the inside of the headmaster's office. Where Headmaster Damocles was doing his own reenactment of an akuma attack with his alter-ego the owl. Which caused massive laughter throughout the room.
However the laughter didn't last long when again the video screen glitched and static wildly. The student's looked on in hushed silence as the screen whirled and fluxed with streams of frazzled movement. The teacher had tried to turn off the screen, unsuccessfully, as it continued to malfunction. Even Max attempted to fix the projector, only for it to go dark. After a moment, when it looked to be over, it came back on.
I KNOW
The message flashed in and out, staying enough time for everyone to read.
"Ms. Bustier?"
"What's happening?"
"Settle down children. I'm sure it's just a...um glitch.", she assured, trying to calm her class.
I KNOW THE TRUTH
I KNOW YOUR TRUTHS
EVERYONE WILL KNOW THE TRUTH
The monitor continued to click one and off, over and over, replaying the same three lines before finally clicking off. Basking the room in darkness and the room in silence. The teacher quickly went to turn the lights on. The students looked at each other and murmurs filled the room.
"I...It seems that the projector had a bit of technical difficulties."
"More like it was possessed."
"Freaky."
"More like scary."
"A technical glitch?"
"Or an akuma."
"Alright everything is okay.", Mlle. Bustier assured, "I'm going to go phone the main office. While I do that, please take out your textbooks and read pages 54 to 70 quietly.", she instructed as she went to call the main office. The students, even instructed to read, decided instead to talk among each other about the weirdness with the projector. Giving a number of theories about what had happened. Nathaniel, for his part, just took the time to draw in his sketchbook. Though surprised by the actions on the monitor, he had a fairly good idea of the real reason for the technical difficulties. And had something more to fear than some random glitch or possibly even an akuma.
And he knew. This was only the beginning.
After the incident during the last class many of the students seemed unedged. Wondering what the message meant and whether or not it was some kind of prank. No in science class the students were being addressed by the strict teacher of Mlle. Mendeleev. Who, did not look at all happy when she arrived in class.
"Well I just got finished with grading your tests and I have to give congratulations.", Mlle. Mendeleev said with a tone that didn't sound too happy, "
"Out of all my class this class scored the worse on the science mid-term.", she frowned looking at the students.
"We got the lowest scores? How?"
"I'm passing back your tests.", she went around, placing sheets of papers on the students desk. When they looked at them, with the red marks scoring the papers, they were shocked and stunned. Even high scoring students like Max and Sabrina looked to have failed badly. Both looking too stunned for words.
"Mlle. Mendeleev are you sure these are our scores?"
"This has to be a mistake."
"My parents are going to kill me."
"I...passed?", Nathanial blinked as he saw his quiz.
"How did Nathanial pass?"
"Yeah, not to go there, but he's the worse kid in class when it comes to science."
"Nathanial actually preformed slightly better than usual.", gaining a solid B on the test and even getting extra credit questions, "The rest of you under-performed.", with grades ranging from D's to F's, "I'm very disappointed in all of you.", the students looked down in disappointment.
"No excuses.", she dismissed, "All those who failed this test will be taking a redo.", she stated, "I'll also be assigning extra homework for those who failed the test.", which was basically the whole class, sans one, "You'll also have to take a make-up test."
"Seriously?"
"But, Ms. Mendeleev..."
"Besides the fact that most of you didn't even bother to answer the questions completely. Most of you seem to have copied from the same source.", which made them invalid and automatically failed.
"You can't just do that."
"I can and did.", the teacher stated.
"But, that's not fair. We studied hard for that test.", they argued, "How could the whole class fail?"
"You should have thought about that before you decided to show such lackluster attempts to pass a test you knew counted for a high percentage of your grades.", and she was not amused in the slightest. Before anyone could complain the bell rung signaling the end of class. Gathering their things the students walked out, heads down, and trying to avoid the science teachers disappointed, "Nathaniel?"
The artist froze and looked at the teacher.
"Yes Mlle. Mendeleev?"
"Stay after class. I need to talk to you about your homework you sent in."
Nathaniel looked at the science teacher and nodded. Staying behind to speak to the science teacher he readied himself for whatever would come. But, as he stood among in front of the teacher, ready to be lectured and scolded. He was surprised when he felt arms wrap around him.
He had to keep going.
Phase 2: Social Sting
Nathaniel sat on the steps with Marc, Aurora, Mirelle, and Jean. They had become his group to be with when he wasn't in class. Drifting further and further away from his classmates as best as possible. Even those like Rose, Juleka, and Alix seemed more like strangers to him.
"Did you see the video from yesterday?"
"Ceasire and Lahiffe abandoned their little siblings so they could go on a date?", the image caught in a number of photos of the two having a date at a cafe, when they were supposed babysitting their little siblings at a park. Which was only made more scandalous when there was an akuma attack struck, the first one in weeks. Which showed the return of the heroic duo Ladybug and Chat Noir.
"Seriously who runs toward a fire shooting super villain.", Fire Starter, a fire villain who was trying to set the entire city on fire after losing their cooking assignment in a freak accident. And, as usual, the over-zealous reporter/journalist of everything hero had to literally run towards the smoke.
"The same one who live streams when fire balls are raining from the sky.", nearly getting hit before the heroes had to save her from getting torched on the spot.
"And she plays it off like she didn't nearly die.", and it was starting to get frustrating.
Nathaniel sighed, "She has always been like that.", nearly getting hurt or worse for the sake of a good story and footage for her blog. And, after watching the footage, he was beginning to think someone else was getting sick of it too, "But, as long as she's getting positive reviews the negative one's don't even hit her radar.", and there were a growing number of negative reviews concerning her actions and the fact she had left her siblings alone to get footage.
"Changing the subject.", Aurora said, "I read an article about the Sunshine Prince from College Voltaire. He and the Ice Prince were doing book readings at the Children's Hospital.", with an image posted on the social media boards.
"That's so sweet."
"I heard the Prince's participate with different charities and activates.", coming from influential families they shared links and photos of different charities and events for a number of projects. As they continued to speak they could here a small uptake of noise coming from the other side of the courtyard.
"What is she blathering about now?"
"What else.", Nathanael shrugged, "She was regaling everyone about the Gala she attended last month.", a huge event where celebrities and figures from all over attended, "Along with the charity work she had done and her celebrity friends."
"So the same old dribble.", of course, "The nerve of that little witch.", Aurora didn't hide her contempt for the students of Mlle. Bustier's class. Especially that lying minx that waltz in and put herself on the top using false words and even faker stories.
"And apparently she's been invited to a party by the Golden Queen from College Voltaire.", because apparently, by her claims, she had a relationship with the Ice Prince from Voltaire College.
"Honestly, I think those students are the only people in the school that still believe the drip that leaks from her mouth.", most of the people she's talk too couldn't stand the little leech. Having grown wise to her false words and claims. With a few on the line and the akuma class, sans maybe a couple of heads, the other's just drank up whatever she spoke like a person in the desert dying of drought.
"Most students don't even talk to them much anymore.", Jean added to the fact the student's of that particular class were basically viewed as untouchable. Most students ignored them and did everything to keep them out of their business. Not wanting a certain sausage haired mouth piece to try and lure them in with her stories.
"They don't seem to care.", Nathanial exhaled, "Even if they did, Rossi just tells them the other students are being mean to her because she's the victim.", which only made them, and the rest of the class by association, go further down the social ladder.
"Of course.", Aurora folded her arms, "You know Rossi tried to tell me and Mirelle that she had connections in the network and communication business.", basically saying how she knew a number of celebrities and executives because of her charity work. Or having relatives in the same profession, "And she swore up and down she could get us connected and further our career.", which seemed to good to be true. And while she was, admittedly, awed for a moment at the stories. The reporter in her thankfully kept her head about water. And being a weather girl at an actual network she was able to ask around about the claims the girl made. Along with a few google searches she was sure that Rossi was just blowing hot air. She was about as interesting as snow in December and rain in April.
"She told me she met Chris Angel during a trip to Las Vegas and even worked as an assistant with Penn and Teller during an act at Caesar's Palace.", after Jean mentioned he was interested and had practiced in magic.
"She's about as magic as an ice cube melting on the side walk in summer."
"She also tried to tell me she knew world famous sculptors in Italy.", with a famous relative who had studied and created masterpieces, "But, she couldn't even bring up an example or her relatives name.", just kept changing the subject or brining up a new topic to avoid answering questions.
"That's pretty much her M.O.", the artist shrugged, "She finds out what people like and uses it to boost herself up by inserting herself into whatever's popular.", than refuses to answer basic questions or pull some kind of victim card to get people to drop their questioning on the subject she brought up.
Marc muttered, "Maybe if we're lucky she'll choke on her words.", if only.
As the five friends conversed, Nathaniel couldn't help peering over at the group at the other end of the locker. The first part of the plan, whatever it was, had finished up and soon part two would happening. He received a text from Marx, the Blood Red Prince. Being one of the youngest of the group from Voltaire, he was by far one of the most intimidating. His quiet demeanor and blunt attitude had the artist on pins from their first meeting alone. The next part would involve the Gold Queen, Clovis.
"You okay Nate?", Marc asked, "You look a bit pale."
"Yeah, I'm okay.", he assured, "Just a lot of things happening.", if only they knew, "I really just need a nap.", a very long nap.
Marc gave a small smile and place a hand on Nate's shoulder. A small gesture of support, but a hugely appreciated one.
However the moment seemed to be lost when a sudden commotion filled the courtyard. Looking around students were talking as the sound of notification on phones looked to go off.
"What's going on?", whatever it was it looked to be big enough take everyone's attention.
"Oh wow.", Aurora had voiced, having taken out her own phone to see what the commotion was.
"What is it?", was it another akuma attack?
"Hold on I'm sending you guys a link.", after a quick mass post the other members of the group took out their phones and opened the link. A string of notifications had been blowing up on social media.
'Some of my followers me about someone claiming to being my plus one at last months Gala. As if. My only plus one was a glass of honey red wine. #SweetandBitter' #SoloDate
'Out with the boys shopping. #ShoppingSpree #BurningMyAllowence #Destressing' #NewShoes
A photo was posted of Clovis and some of his followers carrying bags from shopping.
'My friends got held up for 2 extra hours because someone pissed off the half the crew. #Diva much #WannabeModel' #Sidelined
'Someone's claiming to have dated FrigidEight. Is that some kind of joke. #YouWish #NotEven #InYourDreams'
"Looks like someone's taking jabs at Rossi.", since most of the posts were directly posted in regards to post the Italian girl had made. There was no doubt this person, Queen C, had basically called out the girls comments. Of course by the looks of it Rossi and her group had taken notice. The Italian girl looking shocked and quickly switching to garner sympathy from her classmates. Bemoaning being the target of a bully and trolls attacking her online about her so called 'relationship' with the Ice Prince of College Voltaire.
As more and more posts were made, the public began to see a different side of the Italian girl. With their reactions a mix of confusion, a bit a pity, and annoyance at the girls behavior and proven lies. The pictures and post getting tons of views from both the public and Clovis millions of followers from his social media accounts. The students of Francis Dupont were now commenting on the Italian girl who looked to have tried one too many times to poke the hive and mess with the Queen.
"Queen C is not holding back."
"Totally shut her down."
"What's that like the fifth lie?"
"This week.", another student laughed.
"Knew she was blowing smoke."
"Super amazing? More like super annoying."
"I figured she was a boosting bragger, but seriously, diva much."
"Seriously who does she think she is?"
The posts didn't just move the windmill. It sent it into overdrive. Students had been going around discussing the dismantling of the Italian girl by the social media personality. Nathaniel was with Marc as Aurora and Mireille discussed the newest 'sting' that had hit. Centering around an incident at a previous photoshoot that had showed Rossi being a literal diva. From not following instructions, being demanding of the crew hands, and even an interaction with one of the male model's which did not seem all that appreciated.
'#GivingDiva'saBadName'
"I feel bad for anyone who had to work with her.", they all looked either exasperated, annoyed, or frustrated as they were basically stuck working with the Italian girl. Who refused to follow the most basic instructions and kept going against the topographer specifics. Which only made the shots go longer and the images come out less than average. There were even rumors coming out that a number of companies and brands dropping Rossi because the girls behavior and not wanting to be associated with a quote 'entitled diva'. Which only further brought down her reputation, which wasn't much to begin with, as a model or even a decent person. No one seemed to care for the so-called model and practically ignored anything and everything that had to do with her when it came to promotions. And her photos online didn't even break over three digits. Soon the interest dwindled and slowed to a small trickle. And other models were set in her place, if she was even lined up for it as she told everyone.
Of course Rossi wasn't pleased by her waning popularity. Especially online where various comments were left that basically called her a liar and questioned anything she claimed. Including commenting about her 'entitled' behavior and how she carried herself on set and even off. Though if he had to guess she was no doubt upset that someone had basically called her out. And she couldn't reach them. If she even attempted to make a comment or comeback, Clovis was quick to sting back or his own followers quickly brought her down. Forcing her to retreat. To the point where she had even stopped trying to reply. Coming to close with a dark cloud over her head from her many defeats. Which, of course, she used as a way to get sympathy from her classmates who tried to coddle and console her. Giving her positive words that everything would be okay and they believed her. Adding they would do anything to help her and protect her reputation.
Nathaniel could only shake his head at the display. Knowing this was not going to end well. But he knew it was probably going to be a lot worse. And he was going to keep his distance.
What followed was what was supposed to be a continuous kind of protection net for Rossi and her accounts. If someone made a comment against her the class would be there to provide support for her and comment back.
Every time the girl had told a story or regaled others about some event she had gone to or travel she had been on. Or tried to come at Clovis with her classmates as back-up, there was a social media post to go up and shut them down.
'To the no name accounts trying to blow smoke in my hive, it's not cute. #Don'tPokeMyHive #Come Me' #WhoRU?'
'Just saw a post on the Ladyblog. Guess anyone can write and they call it news. #NotEvenClose #KissMyBoots
'Ladyblog? More like Ladybulldog. Keep your sheep dogs in their pens. #NoReceipts #Fightme #TabloidNews'
'Here we go again. Can the Akuma Class stop poking my hive. It's not my fault RedRossi can't keep her stories straight. #GoogleExist #Sheeple # Me
Clovis posted a picture of his newly painted and manicured nails.
'At the spa with the Sunshine Prince. #Manicure #Mudbath
Clovis posted a picture of Andre's Ice Cream cart.
'Went out for ice cream. Since when do you have to look for ice cream?'
'Not bad. # Andre's-Cart' #HoneyStrawberry
Clovis posted a picture of two ice cream cones. One had green, yellow, and light pink. The other was white, light blue, and pink.
'Sunshine and Yu-Yu got their ice creams. #Soulmates?'
'Checking the Mid-Spring Gala guest list. Guess how many people know RedRossi. #Zero #TryHarder #NeverHeardofYou' #NotontheList
'What does the fox say? #Lies'
Clovis posted a picture of a Gabriel Billboard showing a picture of Rossi with her image with devil horns and a mustache.
'Someone tagged another Gabriel Billboard. #Wasn'tMe #Improvement'
'At measuring with Germaine Louise for some custom clothes. #GlitterandGold #Stylish.'
'Guess? #NewPosition #LookattheTime'
"According to recent news, Golden Clover is going to be modeling for the Gabriel Summer Collection.", the news being posted on Clovis Instagram and social media pages of his new position under the Gabriel brand.
"I read he was going to be one of 4 others on a new collaboration.", and many were trying to guess who the other models could be.
"Did you see him and his friends at the mall? They looked so amazing!"
As Nathaniel listened to the conversations about the group, his eyes would occasionally find his classmates of on the other side of the courtyard. Rossi fuming as she sat on one of the benches, her classmates looking to try to comfort her. From what he heard in class the girl had, once again, been set aside for a new promotion at Gabriel. Which seemed to be a norm now. Along with her last online interaction with Clovis and his Hive, had left her badly stung. It was a surprise she even decided to show her face in school with how many times she had been called out and basically had her stories contradicted. It was going to be a long day.
Of course she would play the victim and try to get sympathy from others by throwing dirt towards others. But, beyond her classmates, everyone else seemed to be veering on the opposite side. And with more akuma attacks beginning to come up they seemed more focused on that. With the number of akuma attacks growing by the day it was becoming worrying and a bit suspicious. Especially having to listen to her give excuse after excuse when her stories were picked apart.
For his part Nathanial posted any information and changes that came up. Sending it straight to the Prince's of College Voltaire. It was nearly time for the next part of the plan and Nathaniel was curious to how it would play out. Clovis, the Golden Queen, had already done his part and beyond, by tearing down Lila's kingdom and online presence. With only a few posts he had basically tanked her reputation and took down anyone who tried to 'defend' her. Which didn't last when the millions of defenders in his accounts alone. And the more he debunked and called out, the more support she lost.
Creating more and more cracks in her façade. So it was only a matter of time.
And he couldn't wait.
Phase 3: Red Ripples
"What's that?"
"Cool right?". Aurora smiled showing the green armband, "It's a Sunshine Prince wrist band.", a simple, elegant black band with a green trim and silver buckle snap.
"Where did you get it?"
"On the Sunshine Prince's page on the Royal Fan Clubs website.", which had merchandise dedicated to the group at College Voltaire. From posters, banners, t-shirts, and other merchandise featuring the symbols of each one, "This is one of the first ones for the Sunshine Prince.", since he was new, the club only posted smaller items, the bands, on the website on their tab name.
"It's cute.", even for such a small thing, her friends seemed impressed. Nathaniel, himself, looked at the band with bitter sweetness in his stomach. Knowing, at least, he was doing better. Even if no one could understand his pain.
"It's a shame we never get to see his face.", ever since he had made his debut, no one outside of College Voltaire knew what the 'Sunshine Prince' looked like. He was a complete mystery, even to the members of the fan club. People were curious about the new prince that had joined the rank of the Voltaire most popular in such a short time. Many theorizing who the young man might be. Using the clues from the main posts on social media to draw clues from. With the Sunshine Prince either being present or mentioned by the account owners.
"I bet he's handsome."
"He seems kind.", at least from the posts of his charity work.
"Well maybe we'll get to see his face one day.", one could dream.
Nathaniel held in a small chuckle. Wondering if he should tell them. Well, if he could would be a better summation. He had been sworn not to reveal the Sunshine Prince's identity. So for now it was a secret he would need too keep.
"So Nath were going to be having lunch in the park today.", Aurora said, "Did you want to come with?", she and her classmates had been inviting him to hang out more. Mostly to keep him from being around his own classmates. And Nath would mostly accept, appreciating the times he was out of the nest and vice grip of Rossi's web.
"Thanks Aurora. But, I actually have plans.", he declined sadly. And though his friends seemed sad, they didn't press him and thought about maybe they could met up next time. But, he could sense they were curious.
"You've been going out a lot.", Jean mentioned.
"Really?", he hadn't really noticed. Well, he did, but his mind was elsewhere.
"Yeah. I mean it must be important.", it was the third time this week.
"Oh yeah.", he admitted, "It's nothing really important just something I've been working on."
"Well that sounds cool.", even if he didn't give that much information, "Can you give us some more information?"
"Um, well it's just something I've been working on. I can't really give too much away."
"Something new for the comic?"
"Not really.", he shook it's head, "But, it's really important I stay on schedule."
"Blood Red Prince?", Nathaniel nearly jumped from his skin. Had he been caught? How?
"W-What?", Aurora pointed behind the artist and towards the other end of the hallway. A red headed young man was walking down the path. A dark haired individual right behind him. And they were headed towards them.
Aurora gasped, "One of the Prince's of College Voltaire.", the announcement caused surprise among the students. Having a popular figure, even one from another school, was big news to be apart of. Students talked and pointed toward the individuals. Some taking out their phones as they watch them step right before Nathaniel and his group.
"Your one of the Prince's from Voltaire?", Aurora seemed surprised and even in awe.
"Marx Blood.", the red head introduced himself, ignoring the stir his visit had caused, "Are you ready to go?", he looked to the artist.
"Yeah I was actually getting ready to leave.", he finished packing his things.
"Nath do you know this guy?", Alya questioned. Some of his classmates had broken away from wherever they were to come and butt into his conversation. Nath frowned, but held his emotions in.
"Yeah. A little.", he played down, "He hired me for a project.", he spoke vaguely, "Did you need something?"
"Are you friends with the Golden Queen?", Alya suddenly questioned, "Clovis B. Ambrosius." of course hearing that he, Marx, was a close to Clovis and had no doubt seen him of the socialists many posts online. And given the 'feud' they were having it was only a matter of time before she came sniffing around.
"And you are?"
"Alya Ceasire.", she introduced herself rather proudly, phone in hand.
"And that's important to me, how?"
"She's the author of the Ladyblog.", Nathaniel explained with little emphasis, but enough not to sound too snippy, "It's a blog about the heroes of Paris.", he added.
"Oh, your her.", Marx didn't sound impressed, "Clovis mentioned something about dealing with a small issue. I'm guessing your it."
"It?"
"Small?"
"I make it a rule not to speak with the press during my personal time. Especially tabloid reporters.", at being called a tabloid reporter Alya gasped, as many of the other students did, nearly dropping her phone.
"Did you just call me a tabloid reporter?"
"I suppose reporter would be a stretch. One has to have integrity for writing and plausible skill for the basics of journalism.", Marx said, "Guess just tabloid girl would be better. Still I don't do interviews with the unprofessional.", the comments earned murmurs from the other's students, as Alya shock, quickly morphed into anger.
"What make you think you can call me unprofessional?", Alya challenged.
"Would you like a list?", he didn't blink, "Consider recent behavior of yourself and your, associates-", he peered back at her classmates, "It's clear besides lacking the understanding of basic journalistic procedures. You lack the maturity of even a beginner. Your writing style matching how you deal with people. Going head first without consequences. And refusing to learn to be silent when you have nothing relevant to say.", again his comments stunned the blogger and many of her classmates. On lookers giving a mix of 'awes' and snickers at the comments against Alya. Who only became more flushed.
"I could go on, but my words would only go in one ear and die of starvation from your lack of cognitive thought."
"Did he just call Alya stupid?"
"More like hard headed."
Alya flushed in frustration, "What is your deal?"
"Nothing that involves you. At least, besides having to have a pointless conversation.", Marx adjusted his cuffs, "On the issue you have with Clovis, I suggest you take it up with them.", because it was no business of his.
"Seriously? Just who do you think you are?"
"Marx Blood.", he repeated, "Second son and youngest of the Blood Family."
"You sound like another rich kid.", basically a spoiled brat known only by his parents or family name.
"Being rich has nothing to do with my attitude or feelings towards you. As biased as you think, not all individuals born in upper class are stuck up. As you try to paint them.", Marx again didn't blink at the girls attitude, "I merely came to speak with someone. The reasons of had nothing to do with you. Yet you decided to come up to me and proceeded to try and put a camera in my face.", without his consent, "Which, as you might know, is illegal to film someone without permission. Especially if they are a minor. Then make accusations without merit or proof of any kind because you can't take a hint."
"Got you there Ceasire.", the weather girl commented.
"You called my blog tabloid news."
"Considering what you've been posting he might be right.", Aurora shrugged a bit, "The last article you did was on information concerning individuals someone claimed to have been told about."
"Key word being claimed.", which was basically an ambiguous statement, "There's no proof that any of the stories you post are true. But, you post about on your blog and it's proven false not even a day after."
"Well that's was just a small error.", Alya tried to excuse, "It happens."
"Like claiming Prince Ali was coming to Paris to meet with 'close friend of his' and invited her to hang out at a private party. When in fact it was his cousin and it was for a charity ball raising money for the children's hospital.", not some private party, but a charity event, "And I don't remember seeing any pictures of this so called friend of yours or the princes there.", with photos of the even posted in magazines and websites.
"Well she was.", Alya assured.
"Then why isn't she in the photos?"
" GoldenClover, live-streamed and took photos with the celebrities there.", which drew more and more attention to the cause and gathered donations for the children's hospital, "And not once did we see Rossi there."
"She didn't even post about on any of her social media."
"She didn't want to make a big deal out of it."
"Is that what you call it? I could of sworn she was talking about it for days. About how Prince Ali was flying all the way to Paris just to meet her and they were going to hang out because of how such good friends they were.", so much that everyone in the school heard about it.
"Then there was the time she was telling everyone about going to the Jagged Stone's concert and got to go backstage.", because of how close she was to the singer after saving his cat, "Jagged Stone always post about who he has backstage after a concert." taking a photo with his fans and posting it on his official account to thank the fans for their support, "Anyone can go one and see the photos. He even gives the fan's a signed photo of them with the rockstar."
"During that specific concert Jagged Stone did only one photo. And it was with a group of friend.", and as she said was posted on the official website and the groups social media accounts, "It wasn't even a rock concert. Jagged was playing piano at the symphony."
"Symphony?"
"Jagged Stone?"
"Any fan knows Jagged Stone plays classical.", and even showcases his classical music skills at times
" YoungBloodChild shared a picture on his Instagram.", she pulled up the post and thread, "And the Red Prince shared this."
It was a picture of Jagged Stone on the piano and Mr. Blood, Marc's father, on an instrument known as a Kota.
'An old bird and reptile.'
"They're friends?"
"Marc's father is an old friend of Jagged Stone. They even played in rival bands when they were teenagers.", as shown in a photo that surfaced of a young Jagged and Mr. Blood playing against each other on their guitars.
"Which, yet again, proves Rossi lied about being at a big rock concert and meeting with Jagged.", because their was no rock concert that day.
"Maybe she got the dates mixed up.", it happens.
But, Aurora countered, "She literally came in the next day and told people about her amazing night meeting up with Jagged.", it was all she talked about that day and any could a test to what they told them, "She even said that Jagged tried to invite her onstage and even did a rendition of the song she made for her. Unless the song was Beethoven's 9th Symphony or Clair de Lune, then I'm pretty sure that put's a pin in that hot air balloon."
"Well that's just a misunderstanding.", Alya tried to dismiss, "She does so many amazing things. It's easy to mix up dates.", but not everyone seemed to be buying the weak excuse.
"She claims to be at events, but has no pictures. She claims to know these famous celebrities and individuals, but has no proof of even speaking one word to them. And she claims to have done all these amazing things and helped out on a number of charities, but can't provide a single piece of proof.", but has no problem bragging about her accomplishments to anyone who would listen, "Then when someone pokes any hole in her stories or makes a comment she asks like someone smacks her in the face and turns on the crocodile tears.", to make people feel bad for her, "And you and your classmates coddle her like she's some child who lost her toy.", when she was just making a scene and get people to feel bad for her that they drop the conversation.
"Even now you barged into our conversation because you don't like that someone called her out on her 'errors'.", and were trying to make a fuss about it, "Most of the posts you make on your blog is just some tabloid garbage you obviously got from your 'inside associate'. Which has been proven false.", multiple times, "So yeah you are, by definition, a tabloid writer."
"You have no proof to show. No words to say. And will post anything for views.", and that was clear for everyone to see, "No matter how you look at it your only making excuses and playing down obvious false claims, as simple misunderstandings or mistakes.", even though it they were clearly false.
Alya stood there stunned. Not even sound could be produced as she stared, shocked, at the calm verbal tirade she had been given. While everyone else was surprised, but impressed by the Marx's dismantling of the blogger and Aurora's clear counter's to anything Alya tried to excuse away.
"Well it looks like I wasted ten good minutes.", he looked at his watch, "If nothing else I have better things to do. Nathaniel are you ready to go?"
Nathaniel nodded, but asked, "Is it alright if my friends come too?", he motioned to Marc, Aurora, and Jean.
Marx looked at them for a moment, but gave a simple nod.
"When your done gathering your things we'll be waiting at the car.", with that the Red Prince headed out with Ester right behind him.
"How did you even meet someone like that?"
"It was kind of random.", he lied, "He got my contact information and asked me to do a project for him.", and it just went on for that, "We should hurry to the car."
"Your actually going with him?", it seemed like Alya had recovered, for the moment, after the back and forth with Marx.
"Is that a problem?"
"You saw what he did to Alya."
"You mean the conversation.", or basically shutting her down when she tried to start drama.
"What's the big deal?"
"The big deal? That guy is such a...a jerk."
"Why? He didn't do anything wrong."
"He called my blog a tabloid and insulted me in front of everyone."
"It wasn't very nice."
"But, you were the one who came up and tried to video tape him without permission. Not to mention you interrupted a conversation we were having."
"I just wanted to talk to him. You know because his 'friend' has been posting mean things about one of our friends.", she brought up.
"That's between you and Clovis.", not Marx who didn't seem to care one way or the other, "It still wasn't right for you to not only get in his face. Nor did you have to insult him because you didn't like his opinions.", she could have just walked away, "Also he did make some good points."
"Like what?"
"Well the reason your upset with him is because he's friends with someone you dislike for posting their own opinions about information.", Nathaniel couldn't believe he had to explain this again, "You have to admit a lot of information you've posted about Lila has been suspect."
"You actually believe that?"
"I believe facts and evidence.", like any sane person should, "Social media might not be the best place to get information, but Clovis has been showing lots of receipts."
"So your actually taking their sides? Seriously Nath."
"I'm not picking sides.", out loud, "I'm only saying there's signs that there are visible holes in a lot of Lila stories. Like claiming she was at a gala, but wasn't photographed arriving or inside. That she was at events, but can't give anything but vague details and stories of her own word. And then claiming to have dated the Ice Prince of Voltaire, but have been called out by both the Golden Queen and Red Prince.", with Clovis being the most vocal to shut down any rumor of them even knowing each other, "If she actually knew any of them she would have more proof. Instead of making claims that she dated one, had a bad break-up, but still friends with the others.", it didn't make any sense, "She doesn't even know any of their names.", instead of just calling them by their titles.
"Are you saying that she's lying?"
"I'm saying her stories don't add up.", and never really did in the beginning, "But, that's my opinion.", and they would have to deal with it, "Also Marx happens to be a decent person.", conversation wise at least, "And it's not fair to judge him or anyone else because of rumors or unproven gossip."
"I didn't judge him-"
"Yes you did.", from his affiliation to his financial status, "So if anyone owes anyone an apology it's you.", grabbing the rest of his items he and his group headed off to lunch with Marx. Leaving a confused and rather shocked Alya and co. in the hallway. Nathaniel exhaled, he had never done that before.
But, as they say, things changed.
The night before the final assault, as Marx called it, Nathaniel had been given a few instructions. Firstly, he could not go to school the day of the plan. He was told not to answer his phone from any of his classmates within his homeroom. But, when the plan proceeded he would need to follow instructions. Finally, for tonight, he was to log onto the Sunshine Princes social media handle and watch the livestream.
He had opened his tablet and was waiting for the livestream to start. He was nervous and anxious. Besides him, he knew a lot of students and friends from his school would be watching.
Looking at the accounts waiting it was in the thousands. People were curious to not only see the elusive prince, but also to hear what he had to say.
When the livestream began it's final countdown from ten, Nathanial felt his heart quicken.
When the clock hit zero the stream opened and an image of Adrien Agreste filled the screen.
TheAgresteBrand Live on Instagram...
It had felt like years since he had seen the blond model. Though his presence lingered through the halls of the school and around the city. Just being able to actually see him, even on screen, felt like a rush to the senses.
He looked tired. His hair was messy and he had small black marks under his eyes. His skin looked decent, save for the marks he could make out. Bruises and cuts still healing from the attack he assumed. And it was confirmed. Nathaniel chewed on the bottom of his lip, but continued to watch as Adrien addressed his viewers and fans who had come on to listen. He talked about the attack and his time in the hospital. About his struggles and journey after leaving. Even his transfer to a different school afterwards. Silencing the rumors he had been expelled as punishment for transactions or a cover-up by his father.
He explained how he was medication and would sometime suffer from panic attacks. How he would still have issues with being around people and trusting other in general. But, had found new friends and support at his new school. Dispelling any rumors or gossip that had been floating around as only that. Rumors. Created by those who tried to bring him down because of a vicious lie. And it didn't take people long to figure out who had done it. No doubt the same one's who released the video of his assault and posted it on the schools website. Leading to a increase and surge in akuma attacks in the city and at the school. Though it hadn't been proven who posted it before it was taken down, it didn't stop individuals from targeting the school and his former classmates.
Nathaniel himself had transferred to Mrs. Mendeleev days a couple of weeks ago. A shock to his former homeroom class, but explained it had been his parents idea. And even through the almost scripted words of goodbye and well wishes, he didn't look back. Which had also helped when the student body basically turned on them as more and more information was leaked. And once the video was leaked...there was truly no going back. Even there exclamation trying to paint Adrien as the villain by many in the class, the people seemed to have made their choices. No one believed them. Not even Rossi's crocodile tears could save her from the spit of the students and it was a wonder the school hadn't been shut down then and there.
"Thank you to everyone who took time out to listen." And for the support and positive energy. It really helps knowing I have such great people in my corner.", even if he didn't know it himself at times.
"Have a safe night." , with one final smile and a wave Adrien turned off the live-stream.
TheAgresteBrand has logged off..
When the stream closed people were still buzzing and typing in the comment section. With more have jumped in just in time to catch the end of the stream with the number of views building with each passing minute. Nathaniel sat in his bag, exhaling with a deep sigh. Feeling pressure lifting slowly from his body.
As expected his phone began to tremble and vibrate. Blowing up with texts and calls from who he guessed were his school mates. While he answered those from Marc and his other friends, he directly made sure to ignore those from his former homeroom. With a buzz a call was coming in...
'Marc'
Picking it up he pressed the accept button and placed the phone to his ear.
"Hey."
"Nath, did you watch the livestream?"
"Yeah.", he didn't deny, "I saw. It was...eye opening."
"I can't believe they did that to Adrien. I knew Rossi was suspect, but to do something like that...", it was a different level of vile, "How could they do that?"
"I don't know.", and it didn't matter.
"I got a call from Aurora.", he mentioned, "She's making a petition to take to the school on Monday.", a lot of students were already signing it.
"A petition?"
"To get Rossi removed from the school.", permanently, "We're going to take it to the principal."
"You think it will work?", as long as the assault remained secret and even now she and her group were still in the school spoke volumes. Even before that things happened in the school that were easily swept away or forgotten.
"Well we aren't going to just sit around and do nothing.", they were going to show their support for Adrien.
"That's...good.", he breathed another sigh, "Hey Marc? Can you send me a link to the petition?"
"What are you saying Nath?", when Monday came and Nathaniel came to school he was waiting at his locker for Marc to go to class. Surprised, in a way, when he was confronted by his former classmates. Each looking worse for were. Even with a missing head, it was basically a full house. Marinette looked to have been running late, as usual. Not surprising they all looked worse for wear. No doubt facing the wrath of Adrien's fan club and the court of public opinion. It was amazing how they came in or were even allowed on school grounds.
"You guys look horrible.", he commented.
"It's a complete madhouse out there."
"Everyone looks like they want to tear us apart.", and some just might if given the chance.
"What happened?", he fined ignorance to their plight.
"It was horrible.", poor Rose sounded so sad, hugging Juleka for support.
"We can't go through the halls without getting death glares and sneers.", even Markov, Max's robot friend, refused to come to school with him.
"And someone has been playing tricks on us."
"I see.", it was hard to miss, "It must be really bad."
"More like completely terrible.", as if the whole school had turned against them.
"This morning Alya's blog was completely barraged with hate comments and spammed.", she had to shut down the comments and turn everything off. No one had spoken to her since or Nino either.
"That doesn't sound right.", again he fined, "Maybe you should go to the principal's office or talk to Mlle. Bustier.", and some of them seemed to indulge the idea of going to the principal, "Though I don't see why anyone would be upset with any of you guys.", but by the looks of them, their demeanors shifting he could have sworn he saw something there. Fear, guilt, maybe even shame, "Anyway I need to go."
"Go?"
"Yeah I'm helping Aurora deliver some papers to the principals office.", he revealed.
"You can't go out there."
"You'll get pranked or worse."
"I think I'll be safe.", he assured them there was no target on his back.
"Why haven't you been pranked?", noticing his clean and untouched features.
Nathaniel shrugged in ignorance, "I don't know. I've been here since this morning and no one's done anything to me."
"But, why wouldn't they target Nath?"
"Maybe they forgot about me.", it wasn't hard to forget someone who didn't stand out much, "Anyway I have to get to Aurora and get the petition to the principal before class starts."
"Petition?"
The artist nodded, "Yeah. You know, to have Lila expelled from school.", his words were nonchalant and matter-o-fact that it only added to the groups shock when he let it 'slip' that he signed the petition and helped collect signatures over the weekend.
"You actually signed Aurora's petition?"
"Yes I did.", he didn't deny it any longer.
"You actually signed a petition to get Lila expelled?"
"Nath how could you do that to your friends?"
"One, it's Nathaniel. Only friends call me Nath.", his voice was almost cold, "Secondly, friends? Since when have we been friends? I have been literally avoiding you all for weeks.", he revealed.
"You were avoiding us?", they looked shocked.
"Yes.", did he have to spell it out, "I rejected invites. I transferred homerooms. I wouldn't even talk to you in school casually.", anyone could tell that meant something, "You honestly thought I was just going to stay in a room with you people."
"What's that...?"
"You attacked someone.", he cut through their words, "You hurt someone, put him in the hospital. For what?"
"You..."
"I knew something was up when I came back and Adrien was gone.", and the attitudes of the students, "But, when I found out the truth.", it made him sick, "So don't even try to play like we're all such close friends when it's proven your all ready to turn on anyone on word of mouth from anyone who makes a comment about anyone.", and jump at the chance to slander them without any proof.
"You all nearly jumped down my throat because I didn't tell you I happened to know people that Rossi claimed up and down to be close to. Then when I was hanging out with them and your classmates accused me of taking sides. Because no one can do anything without it being related to Rossi.", good or bad, "You didn't even try to let me defend myself. You didn't even have any proof that maybe you didn't know what your were talking about. Adding the fact that for claiming she knew the Sunshine Prince, neither he, his friends, neither knew her or liked her!"
"And the cherry on top of all this. The Sunshine Prince turned out to be...Adrien Agreste!", he exclaimed in a mock form of shock, "The same Adrien you and everyone in that classroom has been railing because of rumors. Whose name was being dragged through the mud because of gossip. You didn't even have the decency to talk to get his side of the story. Just turned into an angry mob and hurt an innocent person.", without proof or evidence.
"And here's something extra. I knew.", he mockingly whispered before proclaiming the last part.
"You...knew?"
Nathaniel gave a single nod, "I knew who the Sunshine Prince was. I knew what you had done to him. And let's just say I knew this day was coming.", and had been going along and waiting in the wings.
"Y-You..."
"And now you, all of you, are going to know how it feels when people turn on you.", because they had dug themselves so deep.
"Nathaniel how could you?", he had betrayed them.
"I don't owe you an explanation. Because you didn't want it then and you won't get it now.", because there was no time for it anymore, "So now you and your precious and amazing friend can face what you created.", taking his things he headed off and away from them.
Before the first period started there was a commotion in the hallway, a short struggle, before everything reached the breaking point. The arrival of the superintendent, Mrs. Rossi storming in to confront her daughter, before finally the arrival of the police to place the silver shackles on Lila's wrist before the students and faculty. Watching as she was whisked away through the shouts and jeers of the crowd amassed outside. While inside many cheered as the liar had been taken away. His former classmates were stunned, even Mlle. Bustier, who looked on the verge of tears as everything hit them like a train at full speed. The Superintendent dismissing them and a parade of parents coming in to take their children away. Giving stares and looks to the headmaster and homeroom teacher.
Nathaniel watched from the outside having been inside. It might be the last time he saw his former classmates, watching them ushered away by their parents and driven away. For his part, his assignment was over. He received no other phone calls, but given the option to continue to report if things changed.
Yes, he was a traitor.
And for the moment, he would be fine.
...To Be Continued...
Who else will be redeemed?
I keep getting asked where is Marinette and what will I do with her? I'm debating on that honestly. But, I'm leaning towards the idea of giving her a bad end. Her character, for me, is really starting to irk me. Especially with the fourth season and the multiple of fanfics that have flooded the fandom. Treating her as some victimized saint and everyone like dirt because of one or two episodes because new girl came and became popular. I feel like I want to be salty, but not over the top. Still let me know if you have any ideas of who to redeem and who to leave out.
Also please be careful about posting comments so that the same comment isn't repeated. I will be returning to update Fox Tails. I lost traction with it and went to write other things to get my fire back. I have not forgotten about it and thank everyone for their continuous support.
Please remember to comment and review. Thank you for all your support.