It's October! The time of ghosts, ghouls, and Halloween Horror Nights! I went this past week and man was it fun! Also I am so very glad everyone liked Dreamless Connection! It was something I had never seen done before and I am relieved that a ton of people have said its their favorite story so far. But now it's the story you have all been waiting for! This is the sequel to The Meaning of Marigolds and I hope everyone likes it as much as the first one. In the spirit of Halloween it is a little dark but nothing too bad, mentions of blood but no one dies… yet… Enjoy!
PS... Duet, Meaning of Marigolds, and Requiem are now available for your listening pleasure on my Youtube channel!
Yuuzhan Vong Jedi... I have no idea how they will explain it but Alya will definitely have a bone to pick with them.
(Sequel to Meaning of Marigolds!) When skeletons begin to rise up from the shadows it's up to Ladybug and Chat Noir to put a stop to it. Will they be able to end this new threat or be buried six feet under?
The Skeletons Dance (Part 1)
The man staggered down the dark alley, one hand pressed against the bullet wound in his side as the other clenched a blood soaked shiv a little tighter. Sirens echoed through the night nearby and he cursed as he tried to move a little faster. His name was Aeron Sterben. He had just escaped from a prison van and he was not going back without a fight. The crime he had been in prison for was murder. The murder of two people, a couple Aeron had tried to rob but ended up killing. Back then he had been stupid, arrogant, and had been caught fairly quickly. Since then he had been in jail for several years and Aeron was ready to wreak havoc once more. Unfortunately for Paris the powers that be were transferring him to a new facility since he had been on his best behavior since being captured. Really he had been awaiting his chance at freedom and now Aeron had it. The two transporters bodies left in his wake were of little consequence in his mind, but what infuriated him was one of them had managed to get off a lucky shot. Now because of it, Aeron Sterben wasn't sure he would get much out of his freedom after all. Leaning against the wall he paused to bite back the pain and take a deep breath when something caught his attention. A purple butterfly floated past him on silent wings looking almost ethereal in the dim light. Three things about the butterfly told him this was no normal creature. Its coloring was the most obvious thing, plus it was night and Aeron did know that butterflies didn't travel at night much less glowed. The thing that held his interest though, was that he could literally feel the malevolence seeping from the creature.
Pushing off the wall he followed it feeling drawn to the creature as if it were a flaming brand and he a moth. News stories of monsters and super powered people flitted through his mind as he remembered the names Chat Noir and Ladybug. One particular news story had covered the purple butterflies and he realized that this had to be one of those power wielding creatures.
"Come here little butterfly." Aeron ground out as he stumbled forward out of the alley not realizing they were quickly approaching someone sitting and sniffling on a park bench.
Raising the knife in his hand, finally close enough to strike he slashed down piercing the butterfly through the center. The movement also slashed the sniffling man's shoulder open as he sat on the bench before him. The injured man screamed at the sudden pain, shooting off the bench only to stumble falling to his face. Swiftly the injured man twisted around onto his butt on the ground as he looked back at the thin knife wielding figure. A purple mask flashed on the figures face as the impaled butterfly was drawn into the blade.
Silence hung in the night air when suddenly the knife wielder spoke. "You are the one who gives powers to others are you not?"
"I am Hawkmoth but you are not the one I chose." Hawkmoth answered in his mind
"The fool you chose wouldn't have been of any use to you. I want the power and I am dying. Use me." Aeron Sterben hissed his vision starting to go blurry.
The man he had cut scrambled away from him screaming and finally within his mind Hawkmoths voice answered a slightly puzzled note within it. "Very well but I require something in return."
"For my life and freedom I will get whatever you want." Aeron Sterben answered
Hawkmoths voice was cold as he spoke "I want Ladybug and Chat Noirs Miraculous. Get them for me and you will continue to live Morte."
Power sang through his veins as the darkness swallowed him and Morte laughed.
The day was bright, sunny, and oddly cool considering the time of year. It was one of those days where if you were not a super hero you would probably find a nice sunny patch to sleep in. Unfortunately for two superheroes in question they were at the moment fighting. To the average passerby this would be a slightly odd thing since the only time the people of Paris saw them fight was if one had been taken over by an akuma. There hadn't been any akuma attacks lately and this odd sight would definitely turn some heads. Mostly due to this reason they were in an abandoned building on the second floor, out of sight of the average eye. They had been at it for almost an hour trading blows with their partner's weapons as they tried to find new ways to become stronger. Chat was getting tired though and he knew that Ladybug had to be as well. His attention drifted and suddenly a bar cracked against his head. With a yelp Chat stumbled back landing on his butt as Ladybug froze in shock.
"Are you ok? Why didn't you block?!" Ladybug demanded worriedly as she moved to her partners side.
They were sparring, something they had started doing far more often since the Marigold / Lady Cat akuma incident. Marinette had been the one to point it out. If anything happened to the other while fighting an Akuma causing them to become incapacitated their miraculous could be removed and used by their partner. However as Marinette had found the experience was a little disorienting and while having another weapon was quite handy she really didn't know how to use it well. In a battle situation knowing all your powers and weapons thoroughly was what often times kept you alive. Marinette had been determined to master all of Chats powers and while Adrien was a little more laid back he agreed it would be cool to use her yoyo. Strangely enough the kwamis had agreed with them, especially since the akuma were becoming more dangerous and powerful. Now the duo often slipped off into abandoned buildings and the like to practice when they had the extra time. Sometimes they combined to let Lady Cat or Black Luck as they called Adrien's transformation run around but they didn't do it often since it wiped the kwamis out far more than a regular transformation did. Right now they were fighting with opposite weapons. Chat had her yoyo and Ladybug had his staff. Ladybug had taken to the staff fighting brilliantly liking to use it best broken apart in two batons. Chat however was having a harder time. He was a close combat fighter, always had been especially with taking fencing for so long. Regardless of the fact that he was good at physics, fighting long distance and having to instinctively find angles for throws and such were really giving him a hard time. Although he was far better at it now than he had been at the start.
Chat sighed rubbing at the spot feeling a bit sheepish. "Sorry My Lady today really isn't my day for all this."
Ladybug's concerned gaze softened as she found he wasn't really hurt and held out her hand. "Awe is my little kitten wanting to go and curl up in the sunshine?"
Chat chuckled and took it climbing to his feet before leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her lips. Ladybug blushed as he pulled back and Chat smiled fondly at her even as he felt a blush heat up his cheeks too.
"I think my little bug could do with a bit of sunshine. Especially in a nice park with a blanket and some sweet treats." Chat answered
"I think she should hit you on the head again so you quit with all this ooie gooie nonsense." Plagg gagged in the back of his mind.
Chat rolled his eyes with a huff and Ladybug snickered "Plagg?" she asked
Chat nodded and stretched, his muscles pleasantly warm from the bout they had. It was fun sparring together. Ladybug was a fierce opponent and in truth they were evenly matched most of the time. Bending to scoop her yoyo off the ground he answered. "Plagg says you should hit me again."
Ladybug snickered again and they traded weapons back "Actually I think we could do with a break. We have been at this for over an hour and we haven't had an akuma attack in almost a week. We should probably let them rest. What do you say Tiki?"
Ladybug cocked her head to the side listening to her kwami then nodded "She agrees. How would you like a small picnic?"
Chat bounced on his toes "Ohhh yes please." He answered eager to have a nice quiet afternoon with his princess
With her smiling brilliantly at him Chat felt his heart melt a little. "Ok! Race you to my place!"
Ladybug was off like a shot leaving Chat scrambling slightly to catch up. He didn't mind losing though. After all he had a lovely view the whole way back to Marinettes home.
They landed in a small alley near the bakery and as one kept a look out the other de-transformed. Then together they left the alley giggling like two teenagers that had snuck a quick kiss out of the publics eye. No one paid them any mind and they walked into the bakery hand in hand.
"Hey kids!" Tom called over the head of a customer he was assisting.
"Hi papa!" Marinette called as Adrien smiled brilliantly calling "Good morning Sir!"
"Its Tom! Only my pops was Sir!" Tom chuckled back and Adrien rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.
Marinette pulled him through the back and as they went through her father ruffled his hair in passing causing Adrien to grin happily at the touch.
Ever since the first day he walked into this bakery it had felt like home. Tom and Sabine had been wonderful, welcoming, and so very warm. Every waking moment he wasn't tied down with his father's obligations he was with Marinette. His father had been concerned, actually calling a meeting off so he could meet the girl that had entranced his son. Adrien didn't know what happened in that meeting but his father had actually approved of Marinette. Now she was even working part time as an up and coming intern for him. The only downside was that their dating had gone very public which had welcomed some unpleasant attention to Marinette for about two weeks. Several girls and even an older woman had become akumasized over it as well as two guys on Marinettes behalf. Adrien was very happy that Marinette was secretly Ladybug and could therefore take care of herself. However it had been a very annoying two weeks that had left them grouchy towards everyone but each other and their kwamis. Now things had settled down on that side of the world although Chloe was still an unpleasant pain in the rump. She still pounced on Adrien every chance she got although she did so mostly out of Marinette sight after a particularly nasty encounter between them. When they first announced themselves as a couple at school the reigning feeling in the class was FINALLY! With the exception of one person.
Chloe had been infuriated and she accused Marinette of stealing him or bullying him into dating her. Marinette had kept her temper till Chloe had tried to slap her as she turned away. Marinette had caught the offending hand and thrown Chloe across the room on instinct. Due to that incident Marinette had been suspended for two days which Adrien and half the class had skipped as well in protest. To Adrien it had been the best two days of his life and everyone had agreed that Chloe was no longer going to get her way. At least, not in the classroom. It was forcing Chloe to reform herself in a way which wasn't really a bad thing.
"Hello you two where have you been?" Sabine asked as they moved towards a storage room.
Marinette smiled at her mom and Adrien grinned as well especially when Sabine stepped forward to give them both a quick hug. Adrien eagerly accepted and Sabine chuckled brushing his shirt off when she saw some flour had transferred to him.
"Hello mama. We were out for a walk but it's such a nice day we decided to do a picnic." Marinette answered accepting her hug once Adrien stepped back.
Sabine nodded her eyes shimmering with amusement. "That's a wonderful idea dear. I wish your father and I could do the same."
"If we are still out when you shut down you can join us." Adrien supplied and Sabine shook her head.
"We can't although that does sound wonderful. We actually have to make a few deliveries this afternoon and then we will be gone for a few days." Sabine answered.
"Oh." Adrien murmured his face falling slightly. He remembered Marinette talking about something of the sort happening but it had been fairly late at the time so Adrien hadn't really remembered.
Sabine chuckled. "Don't worry sweet heart the weather will be just as fine another day and we will all go for a picnic together."
"Yeah we can invite Alya and Nino too. It will be like a party!" Marinette said her eyes lighting up and Adrien could tell she was already planning the event in her mind. While she mumbled names and he assumed party supplies Adrien turned sheepishly back to Sabine.
"Now we've done it." He said with a chuckle and Sabine smiled in agreement pointing a finger towards the store room.
"The baskets and blankets are in there. When Marinette comes out of her creative brainstorm she knows where the other containers are."
With that being said Sabine headed back out towards the store lifting a tray of fresh baked cookies off the counter to take with her. Adrien watched her go a warm squishy feeling spreading through him and knew he probably had a silly grin on his face. A warm hand slipped into his and Adrien glanced over to see Marinette eyeing him. Knowing she was probably wondering what had him smiling he raised her captive hand to his lips tenderly kissing her knuckles and the ring he gave her. A bright blush spread across her cheeks and he practically purred at the sight. It was a sight he never got tired of and it was something he hoped he never did.
"Shall we get our picnic underway?" Adrien asked and Marinette nodded pressing a quick peck to his cheek in passing.
"Yes we shall." She answered and busied herself in getting the supplies from the closet.
In the end they decided to have their picnic in the park right next to Marinettes house. The area near the fountain was pleasantly cool and there wasn't as much foot traffic in that area either. Marinette had carried the blanket while Adrien wrestled with the basket. It was surprisingly heavy but Adrien knew that just meant it was loaded down with goodies.
"I think here is good." Marinette said after a minute and Adrien nodded eagerly.
The small space was covered with grass and illuminated by the dappled sunlight that drifted down from the trees. Marinette set the blanket out and took her shoes off before stepping onto the blanket. Adrien followed her lead and dropped to his knees with a happy sigh.
"Did you bring cheese?" Plagg demanded from Adrien's pocket and Marinette smiled flipping the lid of the basket open.
"Plagg!" Adrien hissed annoyed with his kwamis lack of manners.
Marinette just grinned, clearly used to the twos bickering. "Yes I have cheese and I have a place for you two to hang out."
Flipping the basket completely open Marinette lifted a smaller basket out before closing the larger one back up. "There is a small blanket, cookies and cheese in here for you guys."
"Yay!" Plagg cried and before Adrien could grab him he zipped through the side of the basket.
"I'll watch him." Tiki said with a roll of her adorable eyes before diving into the basket as well.
The basket jolted slightly as Plagg gave a gleeful yip swiftly followed by a scolding buzz from Tiki. Silence swiftly followed and Marinette moved the basket to the edge of the blanket to give the kwamis some privacy. By the time she turned around once more Adrien already had the smaller basket open and he was eagerly setting the food items out as he nibbled in a macaroon. Marinette laughed at him and Adrien tossed the rest of the cookie into his mouth.
"I say we start with dessert first." Adrien said licking his lips. He hadn't realized how hungry he was and now eyeing all the food, he was ready to stuff himself.
"Mmmm I'm starting with the pastries I helped mama make yesterday." Marinette answered with a happy hum pulling the open warm container to her.
"You made them?" Adrien asked eagerly holding out a hand as she pulled one from the box.
"I helped." Marinette answered with a shrug holding the pastry out to him and reaching in to grab one for herself. She wasn't paying attention and with a grin Adrien leaned forward biting the pastry she held out to him.
"Mmmm" Adrien sighed as Marinette snorted "You goof."
Adrien leaned forward for another bite and Marinette moved her fingers out of the way allowing him to. Chewing thoughtfully Adrien turned over and in the next moment he was laying in Marinettes lap. Marinette shook her head an exasperated smile on her face. Every time Marinette sat down on the ground Adrien almost always ended up in her lap. She really didn't mind and everyone thought it was cute so it wasn't a big deal. Taking a big bite of her pastry Marinette fed Adrien the last of his and got a second one out for him.
"How's your head?" Marinette asked her voice soft.
"Its perfect princess just like these amazing pastries." Adrien answered then seeing her concern sat up taking his second pastry from her hands. "Really Marinette I'm fine. You didn't even hit me that hard."
"Why did Marinette hit you?" A female voice asked one that had Adrien and Marinette jumping.
"Alya you scared us!" Marinette cried spinning about to glare at her friend.
Alya chuckled and approached their blanket with Nino close behind carrying ice cream.
Adrien smiled at their two friends and seeing Marinettes contorted face he spoke up before she could. "While we were getting the picnic stuff down Marinette accidently dropped a box on me. It really didn't even hit me that hard but she is being a worry wart over it." He smiled affectionately at her lifting her hand in his. "It was more of a love tap really."
Marinette rolled her eyes even as she blushed leaning in close to him. Thinking she was about to kiss him Adrien closed his eyes but instead Marinette whispered "I should have hit you harder." Startling a laugh out of him.
Nino and Alya glanced at him curiously and Adrien purposely took a massive bite from his pastry so he couldn't answer any questions smiling all the while he chewed.
"Love birds." Alya muttered after a moment taking her ice cream from Nino as she looked something up on her phone. "So did you guys hear about the escaped convict?"
Marinette and Adrien shook their heads and since Adrien was still chewing Marinette asked "When did a convict escape from jail?"
Alya sighed wondering if her friend ever watched the news. "This guy Aeron Sterben was getting transferred to a different prison last night and apparently he escaped. He killed one of his guards and the other is in critical condition."
Adrien frowned swallowing the last of his pastry. "They haven't caught him yet?"
Alya shook her head "He is still on the loose, apparently they can't find him or something. Also don't give me that look my mom has already had a nice long conversation to me about being out after dark."
Marinette and Adrien shared a glance. They couldn't patrol every night and keep up with their everyday lives. Usually they alternated but last night was a rare night off for the both of them and they had gone to bed early since they had already planned sparring as well as a date today.
"By the way Marinette aren't your parents going out of town today? If you want you can come stay at my place tonight." Alya said
Marinette shook her head. "I've got homework and stuff to do Alya. You know how it is."
"Is it physics? I can help." Adrien asked curiously.
Marinette smiled at him. She really did have some homework she had to do though it could wait for another day. It really wasn't due till Tuesday but since it was physics she was happy for his offer. "Yes please."
Adrien pulled out his phone to text the gorilla and Alya tugged on Marinette. "Let's go to the bathroom real quick."
Marinette quirked an eyebrow at her friend but she got up following her they she headed towards her house.
"So you two seem to be getting along really well." Alya said as they walked
Marinette beamed "Yeah we are he is an even better person than I thought Alya. Always so sweet and thoughtful." She trailed off a light blush dusting her cheeks as she rubbed a finger over the ring she wore.
Alya noticed the movement and frowned a little. "Yeah. You know you guys never did tell us what made you two go out together finally. Also what's with the ring?"
Marinette stumbled and Alya caught her giving her a piercing look that made Marinette giggle nervously. "Um he asked me after the plant attack. I uh kinda confessed when he pushed me out of the way of an attack and yeah…"
She trailed off trying to think of a good way to explain the ring. It was easy to explain from the hero's side of things. They had been partners for over a year now and they had saved one another countless times. Even if they weren't dating and he had given her the ring she would have worn it. It was a sign of their partnership, their trust, and since they were dating their love.
"And the ring?" Alya pressed and this time Marinette paused just outside the door to go into the bakery.
"He gave it to me and I love it. That's all really. Besides what about you and Nino?" Marinette retorted raising one eyebrow at her friend as she wondered what Alya was up to.
Alya blushed a little a touch unhappy with the change in subject. "He asked me out for ice cream."
Marinette squealed and pounced on her friend giving her a hug that left Alya gasping for air.
"God girl you're strong." She gasped deciding to drop the ring subject and grabbed the handle of the door. "Come on let's hurry and get back to our silly boys."
They did just that and as they walked back to the park Alya pulled out her phone and showed Marinette a picture. It was dark in the photo but you could clearly see two people on a roof top. They were far too close and it almost looked as if they were kissing.
"Dam…" Marinette hissed and Alya practically squealed
"I know right its totally Ladybug and Chat Noir kissing!" Alya said
"Are you sure they are kissing and you didn't catch them at an odd angle or something?" Marinette asked feeling dread bubble within her.
They had decided as a team that they shouldn't be seen kissing in public. Everyone already assumed they were dating and it wasn't like Hawkmoth could do anything about it but having photos of them kissing plastered everywhere was beyond embarrassing. The only saving grace so far was that this photo was so dark you really couldn't tell if they were kissing or not.
"No I'm sure about it. They were totally kissing! The only thing I am wondering is how long they have been going out!" Alya gushed "Next time I see them I am totally asking."
Marinette forced herself not to groan or pinch at her nose in exasperation. "Alya have you ever thought that maybe they don't want people to know that they are together?"
Alya frowned at that and then shrugged. "I guess I won't know till I ask huh?"
This time Marinette did sigh which made Alya look at her oddly, but she decided not to say anything. They walked the rest of the way in silence meeting the boys who were still eating. Marinette plopped down next to Adrien who handed her a cookie and Alya sat beside Nino while taking a bite of his ice cream. Nino complained as everyone else laughed and they all enjoyed hanging out together as the sun made its way across the sky. Adrien took a nap sprawled across Marinette and she enjoyed the quiet by looking through a fashion magazine she had brought with her. Alya worked on her blog and didn't seem the least bit concerned when Nino passed out in her lap. The two girls giggled at their sleeping boyfriend and took pictures with their phones. When the sun's rays started getting too long though, they both woke their respective boyfriends with a sigh.
"Come on Nino you have to walk me home so my mom doesn't think I'm wandering alone in such a dangerous city." Alya said mockingly
"Alya it is dangerous, akuma are one thing since Ladybug can fix all the damage done by one but normal human criminals are another thing entirely." Nino answered looking at her worriedly.
Alya rolled her eyes but smiled affectionately at him "See you later girl."
"Oh bye!" Marinette answered running her fingers through Adrien soft hair.
The moment the two were out of earshot the rumble Marinette had been feeling against her legs became audible and she giggled as Adrien purred for her.
"I think we are going to have to patrol together tonight." Marinette whispered leaning over Adrien who kept his eyes stubbornly closed.
"Agreed." Adrien sighed "This criminal is something I would like to leave to the cops but if we see him we should take him down."
With a smile Marinette kissed his forehead making him finally crack an eyelid open. "I don't want to get up." He pouted
"Lazy cat." Marinette scolded making Adrien grin happily "Comfy, cat-tent, and purrrfactly cozy in my princesses lap."
Marinette giggled not having the heart to push him off and for a few more moments they lay relaxing in the warm late afternoon sun.
Adrien phone ringing finally made him sit up with a sigh as he glanced to the screen. It was Natalie and Marinette took that as a que to start packing while he answered the call. Marinette had finished by the time Adrien was done and together they walked back to her home. Marinettes parents had already left and the two of them put the picnic stuff away as the kwamis flew free.
"Shall we meet at our normal spot?" Marinette asked walking Adrien back to the door since he had to return home.
"I thought you had homework?" Adrien asked
Marinette grumbled under her breath making Adrien snicker. "Come on Marinette Physics isn't that bad and besides you are getting better at it."
"Says the physics genus." Marinette muttered but she had to smile as Adrien brushed his lips against her cheek.
"I'll come as soon as it get dark." Adrien said and Marinette wrapped her arms around him in a hug.
"Alright but then we are patrolling even if it's not done. It not due till Tuesday anyways." Marinette answered
A knock came from the door and the two of them jumped instantly letting the other go a bit sheepishly. Marinette answered the door revealing Natalie and a waiting car.
"I was coming. The house is only a block or two away." Adrien sighed
Natalie looked a bit resigned herself "There is a criminal on the loose and since your father isn't here at the moment it falls to us to see you safely home."
Marinette patted his shoulder in sympathy and Adrien took her hand to press a chaste kiss to it. "I'll see you at school tomorrow Marinette."
Marinette smiled at him wanting nothing more than to kiss him senseless but since Natalie was right there looking strained she knew she couldn't.
"Yeah." She breathed finally watching them walk down the sidewalk and slip into the car.
Returning to her room Marinette worked on her homework and some designs that she had been itching to start since looking through the magazine that afternoon. She switched between the two as she got tired and took a brief nap knowing that she was going to be up quite late. A kiss awoke her and Marinette blinked her eyes open to see Chat crouched over her.
"My sleeping beauty awakes. My heart fills with joy as seeing your beloved blues and rosy cheeks." Chat said making Marinette blush
"You dork! Get off my bed with those boots on!" Marinette stammered shoving at him as she sat up.
Chat chuckled jumping to her floor below with hardly a sound not that he was worried since Marinette was the only one home. Once there he dropped to one knee and held his arms up to her. "My princess it is safe. You may fall into my arms and ravage me with your tender kisses."
Marinette threw a pillow at him unable to keep from laughing as she climbed down from her bed. Green light flashed and Adrien came around to her side as she dropped to the floor.
"What's with the dramatics?" Marinette asked kissing his cheek in greeting.
Adrien faked a pout pressing a hand to his chest "Dramatics? My dear princess! I was simply doing a knights duty!"
At Marinettes eye roll he chuckled "You looked so peaceful sleeping I wanted to wake you gently. Besides its fun acting the fool with you."
Marinette grinned at him and pressed the back of her hand to her forehead deciding to play along. "Oh dear knight your princess is ever grateful. I fear the dreaded homework has confined me to my tower home."
Joy spread through Adrien lighting up his eyes and smile. "Well then shall we vanquish this mighty beast so I can carry you off into the night?"
Stepping forward Marinette pressed her hands to his chest her bluebell eyes opened wide. "Please good sir. I would be forever grateful."
It was too much and the two of them broke down into giggles as they shared a kiss. They made it through the homework quickly and then they called to their kwamis leaping to the rooftops moments later. They transversed the city slowly, looking out for anyone suspicious or otherwise on the streets. They saw very few people and the ones they did see they escorted home. It was coming close to two am when they paused on a dark rooftop.
"The city seems really quiet tonight. Actually at the risk of sounding like a cliché movie it's almost too quiet." Chat said as he eyed the alley below them.
Ladybug hummed her agreement. The night seemed darker than normal although the waning crescent moon was of little help. There hadn't been a lot of people out either which was odd even though it was late at night.
"We should keep moving." Ladybug said finally "Something isn't right about tonight and I just can't put my finger on it."
Chat nodded leaping to the next building only to freeze as he heard the sound of tinkling glass. Ladybug landed next to him and swiftly he held up a finger before she could speak. Cupping his hand around his ears Chat slunk forward listening intently. More glass hit the ground and Chat grinned having located the sounds origin.
"Robber." He mouthed and Ladybugs eyes glinted with steely determination. They hadn't had any action for a while taking out a robber would be a welcome distraction.
"Go." She hissed her voice barely audible even to his ears.
Chat took off towards the sound his lady close on his heels. When they arrived Chat saw a door wide open in a small alley one man standing and looking bored outside. With matching grins they moved into position having handled several robbers before. Moving down the rooftops a little Ladybug threw her yoyo so it would crack sharply against a dumpster. The man jumped at the sharp noise and looking around he warily began to make his way towards the sound a knife in his hand. He didn't look up and the two heroes could have laughed at his stupidity. Ladybug looked over at Chat as the man moved into position. He nodded pulling out his baton gripping it tight as he waited for Ladybug to move. As one they jumped down into the alley Chat landing in front of the robber while Ladybug landed a few feet behind him. The robber yelped as they landed only seeing Chat before him and stupidly not looking behind.
"Well now. What kind of cat burglar is dumb enough to be padding around my territory?" Chat asked glancing down at his claws as if they were suddenly very interesting. The robber was stunned to find himself face to face with a hero but he had faced down cops with guns before. One superhero couldn't be that bad right? Besides, heroes couldn't kill.
The man scoffed and brandished his blade. "Go home kid. This isn't any of your business."
Chat grinned at him "As a beloved hero of Paris I disagree. How many others are in the building?"
The man decided not to answer and instead lunged at him the blade pointed at Chats stomach. Chat twisted to the side, grabbed the man's arm, and brought his elbow down squarely on the back of the mans skull. The robber dropped to the ground instantly unconscious and Chat grinned up at a very tense Ladybug who looked ready to jump in at any second.
"Easy My Lady." Chat chuckled stepping away from the unconscious robber and pointed at the door. "One down and he shouldn't wake anytime soon. Shall we-"
A scream cut him off and without even sparing a glance at each other they ran for the door. Before they could reach it a second man burst forth from the interior still screaming and half crashed half bounced off the wall. He hit the dirt on his knees and a moment later he was up again sprinting down the alley away from them. Both heroes moved to follow him when suddenly something emerged from the darkened doorway that made them both freeze in their tracks. It was a skeleton and it was holding a bone sword.
"Um did I miss the memo on Halloween?" Chat asked feeling stupid
Ladybug was in shock as well till the skeleton turned towards them drawn by Chats voice. "Pretty sure we just found an akuma." Ladybug answered back as the skeleton charged at them.
"I'll take bonehead you go after the robber!" Chat snapped rushing the skeleton.
There was no time to argue and since the skeleton only looked like a minion, not the real body Ladybug decided to leave it to Chat. Besides if this akuma was these robbers fault then they could provide valuable insight to what made this akuma tic. Plus he deserved to get captured for trying to steal anyways. Ladybug tossed her yoyo into the air snagging a gutter and in the next instant was airborne. Her feet hit the rooftops and she sprinted down the edge trying to catch up to the robber. Spotting him as the man turned a corner Ladybug used her yoyo to vault over a building instead of going around. Midair she heard him let out a scream of terror and as she landed she could see why. A skeleton had hold of him its bony arms pinning him as its ribcage seemed to be expanding to envelope the man. The man seemed to be in shock since he was barely trying to fight and get away. Ladybug leapt to his defense immediately swinging her yoyo to smash one of the skeletons arms completely in half. It opened its jaws at and rattled at her its empty dark sockets making the hair go up on the back of her neck.
"Let him go!" Ladybug snarled as the man in the skeletons grasp went limp the ribcage wrapping around him completely. The skeleton rattled again and Ladybug leaped at the thing afraid to hurl her yoyo and accidently hit the trapped robber. To her surprise the skeleton dodged her rather nimbly, its ribs magically shrinking the man within till they were back to normal sized. The man lay still curled into a ball within the skeletons ribs and the sight sent chills across Ladybugs skin. As she moved to attack again a second skeleton burst from the shadows swinging a bone club down at her. Ladybug was suddenly very glad for the sparring and baton practice she and Chat had been doing. Whipping the yoyo string up she caught the bony weapon in the center stopping its downward strike. Before it could withdraw she twisted the string around the club and pulled down while throwing her leg out to strike the skeleton in the ribcage. The crunch of bone was disturbingly loud and Ladybug leaped back still holding on to its weapon ready for a second attack should it come. The skeletons ribcage was crushed and its spine had seen better days. Still almost zombie like it managed to get itself into an upright position and rushed at her its hands twisted into bony claws. Twisting out of its way Ladybug kicked out again smashing through its legs to send it hurtling head first into the wall. Its skull cracked open on impact and suddenly the skeleton turned to dust. Footsteps echoed behind her and Ladybug spun ready to attack only to feel relieved when she recognized Chat emerging from the darkness.
"Ladybug. Are you alright?" He demanded seeing the look of worry and fear on her face. He wasn't much better off really but seeing her safe made him feel a little better.
Ladybug shrugged glancing around and when she didn't see the first skeleton growled "Not really a skeleton captured the robber I was after and a second one came out of nowhere to attack me. I have a feeling that this akuma is going to be rather unpleasant."
Chat nodded and dropping the club to the ground Ladybug wrapped him in a tight hug that he returned. It was always unsettling to have to split up when akuma were around especially since one of them usually got hurt when it happened. "Did you catch your guy at least? Mine got swallowed by that skeleton and now its gone." Ladybug muttered as she pulled back.
Chat grimaced shifting uncomfortably "No I finished off that one skeleton and another two showed up. By the time I finished with them they dude I knocked out was gone."
"Figures." Ladybug sighed looking around the dead end alley. The skeleton that had taken the robber had vanished without a trace and she wasn't sure how it managed it. "We need to call the cops."
"Already did." Chat answered "They were on their way when I came after you. There were no more skeletons in my area and I wanted to make sure you were ok."
That got him a slight smile and Ladybug ruffled Chats hair fondly. "Thanks kitty. We should probably head back there to make sure that the skeletons don't attack again."
Chat agreed and they headed back the way they came on the lookout for anymore skeletons or Akuma. What they didn't see were two red eyes watching from the darkness. Then with a smile that revealed pure white teeth the eyes vanished into the darkness once more.
Beeping awoke Marinette and with a groan she slapped at her phone in an attempt to turn it off. Somehow managing to hit the button Marinette sighed at the sweet relief the silence brought. It seemed as if her eyes had just drifted closed when her phone rang again this time as a phone call. Grumbling as her scattered brain recognized the ringtone she answered with an affirmative hum.
"Well I guess that answers the question of whether or not you are up" Adrien said his voice cheerful.
Marinette grumbled rolling over in her bed.
"Princess you have to wake up. School is going to start in less than 40 minutes." Adrien said
His words broke through her sleepy haze and glancing at the time she squealed suddenly wide awake.
"Ahhh there you are. Good morning Marinette!" Adrien's voice called through the speaker as Marinette flew out from under her blankets and jumped down her ladder.
"I'm awake thanks for the wake up call!" Marinette cried dropping her phone as she dug through her clothes.
Adrien laughed through the tiny speaker. "I have some coffee waiting for you at school. Don't be late!"
The call ended before she could give a snarky reply and Marinette growled as she rapidly got ready for school. With ten minutes to spare Marinette darted from her house making sure to lock the door behind her. For once she actually made it into class before the teacher and Adrien gave her the brightest smile before handing a panting Marinette a styrofoam cup filled to the brim with hot chocolate coffee.
"Thank you Adrien." Marinette managed planting a gentle kiss on his cheek before sipping at her coffee. Adrien beamed until Chloe broke in with a scoff. "Ugh you aren't tired of her yet?"
Marinette frowned at her about to snap right back at her but Adrien grinned pressing his lips to Marinettes catching her completely off guard. Nino and Alya whistled as the rest of the class gave some sort of affirmative noise while Chloe turned red before storming out of the room. Pulling back Adrien licked his lips as he gazed upon a very pink Marinette.
"I think I like chocolate coffee the best." Adrien said and Marinette glared at him her face red with embarrassment.
Before she could do anything in revenge though, their teacher walked through the door saying "Good morning class!" forcing her to go to her seat.
Alya snickered at her poking her in the ribs for most of the class and Marinette wished she could dump her coffee on her. Class passed by mercifully quick, especially since Chloe never showed back up. Sabrina had left class halfway through making some excuse that Chloe wasn't feeling well. The bell rang finally and Marinette walked out the door hand in hand with Adrien.
"One of these days mister I will get you back." Marinette said as Alya and Nino joined them. They had a few minutes before their next class so after putting their stuff in the classroom they stood outside enjoying each other's company.
Adrien chuckled "I have no doubt in my mind you will princess. I am all for seeing what you will come up with."
Marinette poked him in the ribs a smile lifting her lips when suddenly a scream sheared through the noise of the courtyard. Instantly Adrien and Marinette went on high alert as they saw Chloe sprinting out of a room.
"Monster!" She screeched her voice carrying easily across the din. Moments later a skeleton burst from the door out into the light causing an instant panic even though it swiftly turned to dust. Marinette, Adrien, Alya and Nino all sprinted towards the door fighting the stream of kids that were running away out of the school. They arrived within a few moments and Adrien grabbed the door about to slam it closed when he froze.
"Help!" a voice cried from within and Adrien plunged in first grabbing a mop as they went past a bucket. "Adrien!" Marinette yelped having heard the voice as well followed close behind managing to lay her hands on a broom. Neither realized Alya followed, phone already out and recording as they arrived at the entrance of the basement.
"Dudes this is a really bad idea!" Nino squawked as they came to a stop and it was then that Marinette as well as Adrien paused.
"You two go back up!" They hissed as one realizing their friends had followed them down.
Alya and Nino gazed at their friends in surprise but before either of them could say a word a voice cried again in the darkness "Let me go!"
As a group they ran forward and turning a corner found Sabrina getting pulled into a skeletons rib cage.
"Ahhh!" Nino screeched grabbing hold of Alya who wasn't much better off. At his scream the skeleton holding Sabrina looked up and rattled at them as it started dragging a still resisting Sabrina further into the darkness.
The lights were practically nonexistent down here but Adrien could see just fine thanks to Plagg, so he darted forwards striking out at the skeleton while trying not to hit the poor girl. Marinette moved off to his right smashing a second skeleton in the chest that seemed to ooze magically out of the darkness. The blow stopped it for all of three seconds before it was coming at them again. With a growl Marinette attacked again watching for any other movement in the darkness. Adrien scored a lucky shot striking the skeletons head and the skeleton instantly turned to dust as the skull broke apart.
"Break the skulls!" Adrien yelled to Marinette seeing another skeleton coming from the darkness as he grabbed Sabrina before she fully collapsed to the ground.
"Nino!" Adrien yelled hauling Sabrina up to her feet.
Sabrina was gibbering unable to form a coherent sentence as she pointed at another skeleton that moved in the darkness. Nino despite his own terror moved to her other side supporting her as Adrien let go.
"Get back into the sun! Marinette and I are right behind you!" Adrien yelled darting to Marinettes side as a bony hand managed to catch her hair. She snarled smashing her head back and the skeleton lost its grip as the bones in its arm broke. Adrien's mop smashed down on the things skull a second later and the two of them made a hasty retreat smashing anything that came within their makeshift weapons reach. They had just reached the top of the stairs when they heard Alya let out a scream. Leaving Adrien to cover their backs Marinette darted up the last two stairs to see a skeleton holding Alya fast as it pulled her towards the darkened wall.
"NO!" Marinette roared and lunged in thrusting out with her broomstick. Her aim was spot on and the end smashed through its eye socket turning the bones to dust a second later. Alya dropped to her knees in shock her phone forgotten. She had never seen such a look of fearless determination on her friends face before and the shock of seeing it now left Alya unable to react.
"Marinette move!" Adrien called on the last step unwilling to move any farther knowing the skeletons could come up behind her in the darkness.
Recognizing her friend was going into a kind of shock Marinette simply scooped Alya up off the ground bridal style and shot forward. They were over the last step and into the sunlight in a heartbeat with Adrien right behind her. A bony hand reached from the darkness and Adrien slammed the door shut panting hard as he looked around. Thankfully there was no one in the courtyard but Nino who was kneeling by Sabrina and Marinette who still held Alya. Slowly Marinette lowered her to the ground and Adrien rushed to their side looking them over. Marinette had lost one of her pigtails when the skeleton had grabbed her hair but other than that there wasn't a single injury on any of them.
"You ok?" He still demanded and Marinette wasn't sure if she were asking about her or Alya, who's face still held a stunned expression.
She smiled at him her voice gentle as she pushed some stray hairs behind her ear. "I'm fine Adrien. Alya are you ok?"
Alya blinked staring between the two of them. Once Marinette said she was fine Adrien was on high alert eyeing the shadows of the space around them as he shifted his grip on the mop in his hand. He looked ready to attack or defend in a second and Marinette looked the same. Usually Marinette was a reserved, nervous person around danger or akumas but right now as she checked Alya over she was confident, her focus and determination practically palpable. A niggling in her back of Alyas mind made itself known and as Marinette turned towards Adrien to answer a question, Alya noticed the earrings in her ears. It was like a punch to the gut and at her gasp Marinette whipped towards her concern written all over her face.
"Alya? Talk to me girl, what's wrong?" Marinette demanded worried for her friend. Alya had been kidnapped, held hostage, and been nearly sacrificed by akuma before. Every other time she had always bounced back waving her phone and squealing about the excellent footage she had caught. This time however she seemed to be in shock.
"You think those skeletons have some kind of poison on them or something?" Adrien asked his head twitching towards a sound made by a pair of kids who were vacating the school. He faced them again and Marinettes gaze flicked around the courtyard covering the spaces he hadn't cleared. They were working as a team seamless in their search, their glances towards each other holding more information than just a normal look.
"Either way we should get them out and make sure that everyone else is out too." Marinette answered reaching for Alyas arm.
"I… I'm ok." Alya managed finally the sudden shock of her idea settling into a solid simmer in her mind.
"Are you sure?" Marinette pressed "Maybe I should take you home or something."
Alya shook her head rapidly "No I'm really ok Marinette that skeleton just made me feel odd when it grabbed me is all. I'm feeling like myself again already."
Marinette frowned but she stood holding out a helping hand to pull her up off the ground. Alya took it with a smile. "Thanks for saving me though you are really strong!"
Marinette blushed sticking her tongue out in embarrassment. "It's from tossing those stupid bags of flour around in the bakery."
Adrien grinned behind her squeezing her forearms gently "It's a good thing I like my girls built tough." He said teasingly and Alya noted how much taller Adrien was compared to Marinette.
"Hey guys if everything is alright with you all I think we had better get out of here before those skeletons decide to come outside." Nino called helping Sabrina woozily to her feet again.
Adrien and Marinette glanced back at the door an oddly determined expression crossing their faces and it seemed that only Alya noticed the look. Since school had been canceled they all left, each going their separate ways and it wasn't long before Ladybug and Chat Noir were seen gallivanting across the rooftops asking about magic skeletons. They returned to the school since no one else in Paris had yet to have any known problems with skeletons that they could find. Landing in the courtyard Chat raised his arms behind him in a stretch. Soon he was going to have to go home so Natalie wouldn't come looking for him and then he would be trapped there until he could sneak out as Chat again.
"Any luck My Lady?" Chat asked as Ladybug landed in the courtyard. They had split up each taking a different side of Paris and making their presence known as the asked after the skeletons. They had hoped that running about would draw the akuma out but so far the city was really quiet and peaceful.
Ladybug shook her head "Nothing, I wonder why Akuma always seem to go after this school? I mean do you think they can sense us or something?"
Chat frowned pondering the question then out of the corner of his eye he saw movement. Moving to put himself in front of Ladybug he whipped his baton out. "Who's there?" He demanded.
To their surprise Alya shifted out from behind a column "It's just me! Sorry I was just trying to get some good footage!"
Chats shoulders slumped in relief and Ladybug sighed. "I certainly think she can sense us." She grumbled as Alya walked over to them her phone out and most likely recording.
"So what are you guys doing over in this area?" Alya asked her reporters voice firmly in place as she eyed the two hero's realizing that their heights matched her friends exactly.
"We heard about the Skeletons and came to investigate since there haven't been any other reports across Paris." Chat answered. "I don't think it's a very good idea for you to be here though, especially if there is an akuma hanging around." Alya pouted at him and Ladybug tapped his arm her gaze focused on the door they had seen the skeletons behind earlier. Chat nodded moving towards the door and Ladybug turned to Alya.
"If we find out anything good we will give you the first scoop. But right now it's starting to get late and I really don't think you should be wandering around after dark." Ladybug said a gentle smile crossing her face. One that looked so familiar it sent chills down Alyas spine. It was impossible, utterly impossible but, the facts that were piling up in her favor were becoming undeniable.
Not knowing what else to do and unable to ask what she really wanted to know Alya nodded then all at once just before Ladybug could turn away she blurted "Are you and Chat dating?!"
Ladybug made a choking sound and Chat tripped nearly face planting into the door. They both gaped at Alya a mixture of emotions on their faces when suddenly Chat began to laugh. Alya and Ladybug looked over at him surprised as he slunk back to Ladybugs side a flirtatious grin on his face.
"What do you say bugaboo? Alya here thinks we should date!" Chat said the grin never leaving his face as he leaned on Ladybug. He was far too close and Ladybug reacted instinctively, a years' worth of rebuffs making her movement seamless. One hand pushed his nose up and away as her body slipped forward out of his grasp. Unbalanced Chat yelped falling to the ground with a thump. Ladybug on the other hand took a deep breath her face red.
"Please don't encourage him." Ladybug said to Alya who looked rather surprised.
Chat was still snickering as he stood and made his way back to the door, his tail twitching in delight at the joke he had just pulled. Alya didn't know what to say and Ladybug sighed.
"Don't mind him he is just a flirt. We are going to try and find these skeletons so you need to go ok? This akuma seems different and I don't want you getting hurt." Ladybug muttered and Alya nodded watching as Ladybug moved to her partners side one hand on her yoyo. Chat opened the door and gave her a mock bow causing Ladybug to roll her eyes. Seeing Alyas gaze still on them Chat shot her a wink then followed Ladybug into the darkness. It took about a minute before Alya realized they had never answered her question. Annoyed Alya left the school determined to catch them later that evening and find out the truth to several questions she now had.
A few hours later Marinette paced the living room deep in thought as Tiki watched while nibbling on a cookie. They hadn't found anything at the school and so far no other attacks had taken place
"You're going to wear a hole in the floor doing that Marinette." Tiki said swallowing the last of her snack.
Marinette glanced up then sighed falling over the back of a couch to stop her pacing. "I just don't understand Tiki. What is this akuma up to? This is the second attack and all it did was try to take one student?"
Tiki frowned as well "The akuma may have taken others. We just might not know about them due to the fact that these skeletons seem to attack only in darkened areas."
Marinette nodded then realizing Tiki couldn't see her said "That's true but where is the akuma taking them and why haven't they shown themselves yet? Usually we get the whole, Rwar I am evil akuma here to steal your miraculous and do something heinous because I have a major grievance with life!"
Tiki giggled and flew to where her chosen lay landing on her knee. "Some akuma are sneaky and others can create minions like that pharaoh one. Also remember some like Marigold have no need to leave their lairs to cause havoc."
Marinette shuddered "I hate being underground still because of that one. I guess this means we are going to have to go hunting for this akuma then."
Tiki nodded patting her leg. "Don't worry Marinette it will be ok. Now you should go do your homework or take a nap since I am sure we will be out late tonight."
Marinette groaned again but she got up and after making a sandwich for herself moved into her room to work on school work.
In the end her homework did not get completed and she took a nap waiting for Adrien to sneak out of his house. An alarm finally woke her up and she was startled to find Adrien curled up around her his face buried in her hair. Blinking she pulled her own phone out to find it was almost midnight. With a groan Marinette sat up reaching out to run a hand through Adrien's hair. After about three passes he started a light purr that made Marinette smile.
"Adrien… hey Adrien we have to go patrol." Marinette called softly tapping him on the nose.
His nose crinkled and he yawned, stretching his arms out to encircle Marinette before pulling her back down to the bed. She squeaked as he pinned her to his chest the purr increasing in volume as she wiggled fruitlessly.
"I wanna sleep a bit more." Adrien mumbled finally nuzzling his face into Marinettes back.
Marinette smiled reaching back to pat his head. "You didn't sleep earlier?"
"Couldn't had a shoot that they sprang on me as soon as I walked in the door. I'm lucky we split up when we did otherwise they would have been calling people to find me." Adrien answered squeezing Marinette in a hug.
"Did you eat at least?" Marinette asked her voice hushed even as her annoyance spiked.
She felt him shrug against him "I had a protein shake and a balanced meal of so many calories."
Marinette pulled away from him and Adrien gave her a slight grin as she turned to look at him "I'm hungry." He said before Marinette could even ask.
Marinette huffed "Come on lets get some real food in you and then we need to get going."
Adrien grinned perking up and Plagg flew out of where ever he was hiding, Tiki following behind at a more sedate pace.
"Me too! He didn't feed me nearly enough!" Plagg said making Adrien grumble as Marinette laughed.
"Come on then lets get you two fed." Marinette giggled and they all trooped down to the kitchen.