Miraculous Devilman: Chapter 14
Disclaimer: We Do Not Own Miraculous Ladybug or Devilman. MLB belongs to Thomas Asstruc and Devilman belongs to Go Nagai. Also, this fanfic contains slight mature themes and mild language.
Chapter 14
The afternoon sun was settling into mid-evening, and the Guardian of the Miraculous was pouring himself a fresh cup of tea. Everything around the room was freshly dusted, and he had even polished the metal casings on the Miracle Box. After all, Master Fu had a feeling he was going to have a lot of company today.
Just as Fu finished pouring his cup, the quartet of heroes and demon hunters opened the door to his room. "Ah, Chat Noir and Multi-Mouse. What a pleasant surprise. Come, sit."
Adrien and Miki sat down at the table, Akira and Ryo joining after Fu gestured to them as well.
"What brings you here this evening?"
Akira grins like he's about to say something, only for Ryo to cut him off. "We've made a few discoveries as of late, and we figured it best to talk here rather than at our place. It's not exactly…fit for visitors right now." the last part he says with a hint of displeasure as Akira's grin widens and Miki's face reddens some.
Fu decided to turn his attention. "I see. How was your battle today, Chat Noir? I heard about some of it on the radio."
"It was…difficult, to say the least." Adrien started, running his finger through his hair.
"In more ways than one." Plagg mumbled, poking his head out from Adrien's pocket.
Adrien glared at his kwami, sighing loudly. "Fighting Lila verbally is one thing, but physically, it was a whole other level." Adrien twisted the ring on his finger. "My powers, they were stronger by double the force than they were with Ges-Kagami. I managed to take control, but it caused a lot more damage than I intended."
The guardian pondered for but a moment, "I see. An opponent that pushed you to your very limits. Last I recall, Hawkmoth had used Lila as a catalyst for his invasion as Scarlet Moth. And here you managed to triumph against her yet again. It is not the first time a hero's power has put the battle at risk. Ladybug herself nearly took a life during your battle against Revenger."
The devilman scratched his neck with a bit of discomfort, but stayed silent.
Miki looked at him with a raised eyebrow.
"And you say your powers were amplified? That is an odd case…I take it 'Miss-Fortune' had similar powers to yours?" the Guardian turned to Wayzz, who was floating beside him.
"Hawkmoth must have run out of ideas and tried to make another 'Copycat"." the turtle kwami mused.
"Hey, don't insult me by mentioning that guy!" Plagg said with an annoyed tone. "At least Lila knew how to do it right!"
Plagg, you're supposed to be on my side." Adrien reminded his kwami with a cross of his arms. "And how is that important right now?"
"This is about my powers that you're borrowing, so it's obviously important." The cat kwami crossed his mitts with a frown.
Mullo rubbed his head, "Well the point is you two had to fight her on your own mostly." The mouse-kwami turns to Fu. "The akuma was giving off so much negative energy that it actually kept Miki and I from transforming."
"Hm, they say opposites attract. Then two same sides must have repelled each other with great force. That must be what supercharged Chat Noir." The Guardian stroked his beard before smiling. "You did very well to 'face your mirror' so to speak, Adrien. You should be proud of yourself."
The blonde boy rubbed the back of his head. "Uh, thank you, sir. Though I still need to learn how to control it better moving forward."
"We must keep a close eye on Lila in the future, she has proven the most consistently dangerous to us." The Guardian made a slow stride over the miracle box and rested his fingers over the security dials. He looked ready to say something more when Ryo spoke up.
"Actually, that's what I wanted to bring up." The detective pulled out a phone and displayed some pictures he had taken. "Lila. She's in league with the demon Silene." The pictures showed Lila using her power to make spikes of rock from the ground, and the fake people she had made from scrap metal. "I would wager she's also in league with Hawkmoth then, but we don't quite understand the nature of their alliance. We haven't seen other demons above the surface after all."
Miki's expression grew sad. She hadn't seen the pictures, but this made it all clear to her. "So you really did find her."
The Guardian took a long look at the pictures, a grim look on his face. "Then we are facing a danger as of yet unprecedented."
"Humans in league with demons are very strong, of both mind and body. They have to be," Akira spoke to the Guardian. "If she hasn't already, I'm guessing Silene is preparing Lila to bond with a true demon. She may become a devil-human soon."
"Wait, what?" Adrien turned to Akira with a worried look. "So, something like you? Maybe she already has." Adrien tugged at the collar of his shirt. "It could also explain why her power was amplified."
"I wouldn't think so. Not yet at least. When folks become devil-humans they tend to change a bit in appearance. They look stronger and have wilder eyes than before."
Miki's eyes widened, "Actually, her eyes did change color the last time she came to visit."
The devilman snapped his head back, "She what?"
"Her eyes turned bright blue when we were talking, but then she left in a hurry once I asked her about it. But the rest of her body seemed normal though…"
As Miki speaks, Ryo takes great curiosity in the details.
('hm, looks like Alya really was onto something') the detective thinks to himself.
Akira rubbed a hand on his face before turning to Adrien. "You probably know her best out of all of us. Has she started acting…different as of late? More honest with herself, if that's even possible?"
Adrien shook his head. "With how much Lila is lying, you can't tell what's true anymore, if there's any. However, she did seem more..desperate to have the upper hand." Adrien traced the paw symbol on his ring. "She was really composed with her emotions when she first came back, but at our last fight, she lashed out both physically and emotionally, getting personal with certain remarks." Adrien's gaze fell as he mentioned that last part.
Ryo rested a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Well, it's hard to tell how much of them gets exaggerated when it comes to 'akumas'. But you're going to have to be a lot more careful now that she knows who you are."
Master Fu grows a worried expression. "She discovered your identity?"
The others had similar expressions of disbelief.
Adrien nodded. "Unfortunately."
"This is gonna get rough," Akira moaned as the Guardian pressed dials on the Miracle Box.
"Indeed. Which is why we must take new initiatives."
"Another miraculous?" Miki tilted her head as Fu carefully removed a choker from the miracle box.
"Wayzz has scouted out a new recruit, one that will help us keep up with the new and constant wave of chaos. The wolf." As the turtle kwami produced a small black and red box, Fu placed the choker inside of it.
"Gonna lose your cane again?" Akira grins and receives an elbow from Miki.
Adrien looked at the two. "Wait. He did what?"
Ryo inquires, "And who are you choosing this time?"
"Their identity will remain private until they see fit to reveal themselves. I'm sure you will meet them soon enough," Fu gives them a knowing smile. "And onto another important matter, your training. Chat Noir and Multi-Mouse, it is long past due that I teach you how to expand your ability." As the Guardian stands proud and places the wolf miraculous in his pocket,
Ryo rises and pulls the Book of the Miraculous from a satchel he was wearing.
"H-hey, hold up," Adrien protested. "I still have so many questions!"
"And we will do our best to answer them…"
the Guardian began.
"...On the training ground." Ryo finished, a glint in his eye.
(Insert Miraculous Ladybug Theme Music)
"In the daytime, we're Marinette, Adrien, and Akira,
Just normal teenagers with normal lives.
There is something about us only few know,
Because we have a secret,"
"Miraculous and Devilman,
Fight till the end to stop Hawkmoth!
Miraculous and Devilman,
Together as one they'll save us all!
Miraculous Devilman!"
Miraculous Devilman
It was early morning when Alya and Alex came by the Dupain-Cheng Bakery to wait for Marinette, so that the three could walk to school together. The auburn tapped her foot anxiously as she and Alex waited outside, both looking like they have something to say but waiting for the other to speak first.
"So, you actually apologized yesterday?" Alex finally asked.
"Sure did…" Alya scratched her head, "The last few days have straightened out a lot of things, so I gotta do my best to fix what I can. Thanks for coming along with us."
"No problem." Alex replied. "You and Marinette have helped me out in the past, so it's time I return the favor." a small smirk formed on her face. "Also, Kim and I had a bet going on how long it would take for you two to make up, so I can't wait to see the look on his face when he sees I won."
"You won what?" Marinette, who just stepped out the bakery door, asked.
Alya couldn't help but let out an uneasy sigh at Alex's remark, but quickly shook to properly face Marinette. "Good morning. Are you ready?" she asked with a bit of gusto in her voice.
"I guess." Marinette replied with a half-shrug. "How about you, Alex?"
"Oh, I'm ready alright." The pink-haired female responded with a knowing smile. "Ready to get the power of friendship rolling again."
With a raised eyebrow from Marinette, the three began to walk down the street, the cars passing by them making enough noise to drown any leftover tension.
Alya strode with her arms up, turning to Marinette with a grin, "So, you and Luka. I've heard it's been good from what Nino mentioned. Anything exciting?"
"Uh, yeah. It is." Marinette rubbed the back of her neck, her cheeks flushing. "He's been really supportive during-" She paused for a moment, remembering who she's talking to. "…all the chaos with the last couple of akumas."
"Yo, the irony," Alex snapped her fingers. "That Miss-Forgot-Her-Face was all about bad luck, but she's unintentionally done you two a favor."
Alya tensed a bit, "Who'd have thought I'd have a run-in with that Ryo guy? And yeah, getting saved again sure…set me back on the right track. Only took near death I guess." she ended with a forced chuckle.
"Wait, you ran into Ryo?" Marinette faced Alya with a concerned look. "He didn't threaten you in any way, did he?"
"Not aside from almost running me over to hit the akuma, but he made me realize something. I've been getting close to becoming a freak detective like that guy…eesh." Alya shudders. "Another reason I took down the Ladyblog, on top of everything else."
"You took down the Ladyblog!?" Alex's eyes widened at the truth. "And here I was about to go to interrogate Max if he did it." She looked at Alya with questioning brows. "Don't you think the public deserves to know the kind of dangers they're facing?"
"Ladybug isn't one of those dangers," Alya's voice seems annoyed, but shifts back to normal. "The more folks know about her besides the obvious, the easier it is for any random akuma to fight them better. Besides, with how random akuma powers are, the blog would be more of an archive…hm, I could try an akuma archive." she shakes the idea off. "Maybe later, but the blog as it was did more harm than good. It just took all my focus away from other important things." She glances over at Marinette as she finishes. Alya pulls down her arms, now lightly crossing them.
"Strange how these akuma attacks seem to give us something in return." Marinette pointed out. "Whether it's a life lesson or something else, it brings us closer together, ironic given the fact Hawkmoth does all this for some magic jewelry."
"Alright, Socrates." Alex elbowed Marinette with a friendly demeanor. "Shower me with your wisdom."
"This whole mess is too much to think about all day and stay sane." Alya rubbed her temples. "Thank heavens I'm easing off." She turned again to Marinette. "Don't suppose you'd be up for a double date at some point? Down the road, maybe?"
"Oh..uh..yeah, actually that sounds nice." Marinette slowly said with a smile. "I believe you have one more apology to make though."
"Hm? Oh, of course…to who?" Alya raised an eager, yet confused brow.
Marinette gave Alya a deadpan look. "To Nino."
Alya's eyes widened for a moment, then she buried her face in her hands. "Ohhhh, no. I gotta make this all up to him…god what am I gonna do?"
"Simply do the same thing you did with me." Marinette advised.
A wary breath escaped Alya, her eyes looking a bit more hazy now. "Heh, right…I gotta do that soon as possible." her grin from earlier was now wobbling, but she kept her stride.
Alex's smile grew even wider. "Man, being the third wheel in this drama is a win in itself."
The driest of laughs came from Alya and Marinette.
(Later by the river)
Kagami found herself a familiar bridge, hidden in its shadow. She had her sword clipped to her waist, a cold look in her eyes. As she peered through the shadows, she met equally cold eyes under an overcoat.
"Why did you seek me out?" The fencer called out.
Ryo Asuka stepped forward. "I believe you have important information about a partner of mine."
"I just know Akira from fencing practice. He's not too keen is all." Kagami replied.
The detective sneered, "No, I'm referring to a certain brunette and former blonde."
Kagami tilted her head in annoyance. "I try to help one person and all the madmen come after me…" she grumbles to herself. "Lila? We haven't spoken in years. She disappeared one day then turned up much later with a new look and better stories."
"You must know more," Ryo began to walk closer.
"If I did, I would tell you so you'd all leave me alone." Kagami cut back shortly, moving her hand to place it over her sword's handle.
Ryo frowned, "Is there anything else? Anything at all? Did she ever feel…different in a way you couldn't describe?"
The fencer sighed, "Only on the last day we spoke. She was distressed, more than I had ever seen her so. She radiated this…overpowering aura. I've seen people laid low, I've laid some people low," she gives a breath of light satisfaction at that, "But this was different. Everything stopped feeling real for a moment, as if this very situation had happened before, over and over again…I can't quite put my finger on it to this day."
Kagami looked as though she was pondering old thoughts again, but then snapped back.
"It doesn't matter anymore, not to me at least. Does that satisfy you?"
Ryo mulled over this revelation. Something repeating, like deja vu? Why did this all feel familiar for some reason, like it was a feeling he should know?
"Yes. Thank you."
Kagami met Ryo's eyes for the final time. "Never speak to me again."
Just as she had entered, the fencer turned and left, disappearing behind the stairs leading back up to the streets.
The detective simply walked into the light and took down some notes in his journal.
(Over at the docks)
Luka sat calm, pondering on the edge-railing of the boat he called home. So much had changed in so little time. They'd been good changes, exciting ones, but they did feel heavy when he thought about them.
His new responsibilities to the band and Marinette were the biggest changes. For the first time in a long time, Luka found his fingers searching much longer for the right notes to play.
He catches himself daydreaming about Marinette, his thoughts filled with both joy and concern for her. Her true identity as Ladybug didn't bother him in the least, but he had to wonder what kind of stress that put on her, and what he might be able to do to help.
Now that the band was making a name for itself, Luka found himself rallying the others more often to get ready for potential gigs. The professional world was a different beast. After a certain time, Luka found his hand still, fingers wavering over his guitar strings. It felt odd…
His train of thought was cut short when heard grunting. Luka turned his head to see an old man making his way towards the dock, shaking as he struggled to carry what looked like fishing gear. He wore a red Hawaiian shirt and khaki shorts, a straw-colored bucket hat on his head. The old man put down the fishing gear, panting heavily as he rested his hands on his knees.
Pulling his guitar around by a strap onto his back, Luka vaulted himself off the rail and made his way over to the man. "You need help with that, Mister?" he calls out to the man.
The old man looked up with a gentle smile. "Yes, please. That would be most kind." he scratched the side of his head. "My strength is not what it used to be."
"Don't worry about it," Luka hoisted the bucket, "Just tell me where you're headed, and I'll help you get your stuff there."
"Right over there." The old man pointed to the edge of the dock.
The two crossed over the wooden planks and settled down at the dock's end. Luka set down the bucket, and the old man readied a fishing rod.
"Mind if I sit here a while?" Luka pulled his guitar around and adjusted one of his strings.
"Not at all." Said the old man. "I am grateful for the company." he proceeded to toss the hook end of the fishing rod in the water. "Mind if I ask for your name?"
"Luka", the blue boy responded, sitting down and swinging his legs over the water.
"A pleasure to meet you, Luka," the old man replied. "I'm Wang Fu."
While this was happening, Wayzz phased into Luka's room, box with the wolf miraculous between his mitts. He looked around for an appropriate place to put it, settling for a bedside table. Before leaving, the turtle kwami saw a picture of Luka, Marinette, Miki and Akira on the wall, the four smiling with their arms around each other. Wayzz smiled as he phased out of the room.
"Pardon my expression, but it seems your mind is occupied somewhere else." Fu said to Luka.
The boy turned his head up from a rather disjointed tune he had begun playing. "I guess it is.
A lot's happened for me these past few weeks," he half forces a grin to the man, "It's got me a bit out of tune."
Fu leaned his chin on his elbow, giving the musician his full attention. "It may help to speak about it. Only if you're comfortable, of course."
That seems to get a rise out of Luka, who shrugs and smiles. "I've got a bit more to be responsible for than I'm used to. I've gotta make sure the band can practice in time for gigs, and that means taking my own practice more seriously. All that's actually pretty exciting, the others are great people to know and work with."
He now fully lets go of his guitar, letting it hang on him as he leans back propped on his hands. "And now I've also got a girlfriend, which has its own responsibilities too." Luka finds himself unsure of what he's feeling, but pushes on ahead. "I'm mostly worried about her. She has a lot of her own burdens to bear, I can see that much in her face. It's a lot easier to tell when we're alone, but she's always got something on her mind.
I try to treat her well as best I can, I'm just not sure if it's enough." Luka stops there, now gripping his guitar again and plucking out a slow chord.
Fu stroked his beard as he processed everything Luka told him. "Hmm, that's quite a difficult situation. If I may advise, communication is important in every relationship." he paused for a minute. "I know someone who's lack of communication led to a fallout in their relationship. Sharing your concerns with your lover will help resolve certain issues and develop trust. Trust is hard to build," Fu tightened a fist, "But easy to break."
Luka took this in, looking down at his hands on the guitar strings. "I want to make this work.."
he murmurs to himself. With a tightening of one hand, and a quick motion from the other, he strums out a snappy song. It's quick yet clear, each note emphasizing a sense of certainty.
"I know what I have to do, even if I don't know how to get there yet." he relaxes his hands, turning up from his near daze. "Heh, sorry about that. Got stuck in my head there." Luka smiles at the old man.
Fu returned the smile. "I'm glad to hear that. It's only fair I returned the favor and-" he paused as the fishing rod tugged in his hand. "Ah. We caught something." Gripping the tool with both hands, Fu rolled up the line, pulling the hook out of the water…
Only to see Wayzz hanging off the hook.
Luka stares at the green kwami with confusion, "I didn't know there were turtles in these parts." He glances over at Fu and back to Wayzz in fascination.
"A surprise for both of us." Fu said, a bead of sweat dripping down his forehead. "Best to let this one go." He gives the turtle kwami an apologetic look before lowering it back in the water.
Luka was about to ask another question, when he heard footsteps. He turned again to see Kagami approaching the dock. The two made eye contact from a distance, Luka smiling and waving, Kagami smiling for a moment before quickly recomposing.
"Now is your chance." Fu said with a knowing smile.
Luka raised a hand as he got up, "She's not my girlfriend, but thank you for the advice, Mr. Fu."
With that, the guitarist began to stride back up the dock. "Hope you catch some fish."
"You're welcome." The Guardian replied. He waited until Luka crossed to the other side of the dock before rolling up his rod again, Wayzz gasping for air as he resurfaced.
"It's been "cough" done, Master." The turtle kwami said, shaking the water off himself.
"Well done, Wayzz." Master Fu fished a biscuit out of his pocket and handed it to the kwami, who chewed gratefully. "The boy will indeed make a fine asset to the team."
Luka met Kagami at the end of the dock with a smile. Kagami said nothing as the guitarist tilted his head in curiosity, then turned her eyes to a more isolated spot further along the dock.
Luka followed her gaze and shrugged as she began walking again. Kagami brought them out by one of the bridges, taking a seat on one of the wooden pillars once they got there.
"You've been alright?" Luka leaned back and forth on his feet as he asked the fencer.
Kagami looked up, then turned her head to the side slowly with something of a grimace.
Something was wrong, Luka could tell that much. She spoke little in their meetings, but she'd never been this quiet before.
"Okay. Do you wanna skip today's lesson? We don't have to.." Luka began softly before Kagami shook her head.
"I can practice. It's just been…a day."
Luka held on for a moment, but the fencer stopped there.
"Alright, if you want. Just let me know when you're ready."
Luka took a few steps back, strumming his guitar. He began his normal routine of trying to gauge the feelings of who he was with. He plucked a few strings, then began forming a chord. But he stopped quickly as Kagami began shifting around uncomfortably.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have…" Luka himself recoiled a bit.
The old man's words about communication rang through his head, so he let go of his guitar.
"If there's anything I can do to help, I'd like to do it. I'm guessing you don't want to talk about it though?"
Kagami clenched her fists, "I don't. I don't want another person trying to reach inside of me and pull something out." She looked up to Luka, who gave a respectful nod. She noticed him slowly easing back, and felt the urge to reach out. "I do appreciate all of this, believe me, I…especially considering all I've done to…" Kagami starts reaching out her arms, but quickly pulls them back.
Luka puts on another smile, "Hey, it's alright. And I'm happy you like these lessons." He takes a step forward, "I won't pry if you don't want me to, but if you need help then I'll do what I can. How about I play you something I've been working on?" He asked excitedly.
Kagami nodded quietly.
(At school)
It was lunchtime when Nino strode up to Alya, who had been sitting with Marinette and Alex trying to devise a plan on how to smooth things over between the couple.
Nino figured he might as well make good on his word and "discuss it", wherever that led. His girlfriend had spotted him a couple yards off as he approached, face pulling into a nervous grin and feet beginning to tap on the ground. The other two girls raised their heads as Nino reached them and spoke plainly to Alya.
"We need to talk. Alone." Nino crossed his arms with a frown that seemed both concerned and frustrated.
"Okay." Alya agreed, standing up and giving a nod to Marinette and Alex.
The Latino directed the redhead into an empty classroom. This felt all too familiar for Alya, who clenched her fingers nervously.
Nino makes a few paces, removing his cap to scratch his head. "Well, I see you talking to Marinette again. I'm guessing you've finally apologized?" he does his best to hide the frown, but it shows through. His pace is slow, each step making its soft tap.
Alya nodded. "Let's just say it took regaining common sense to see the error of my ways."
Nino let out a sigh, "Okay. That's something. So do you mind telling me what this whole mess is about? All this mess about Lila being blonde for some reason and…your latest conspiracy about the akuma, and just…what's been going on with you?" His voice gets a bit loud towards the end, but he pushes it down and looks to Alya with concern.
Alya pulled out her phone and held up the screen that read page not found for Nino to see. "Much like how the akumas possess us, I've let the Ladyblog control me for too long." She took off her glasses before continuing. "I've been consumed by this 'ambition' to the point where I lost sight of what truly matters."
She put her glasses back on. "There probably is another "Ladyblog" out there, but there is only one you." Alya rubbed the back of her neck. "And going forward, I want to spend my time getting to know you better."
Nino was taken aback, processing the rush of information. He wanted to be mad, especially after everything that had been happening. He clenched his fists, but they began to loosen. Nino wanted to believe all of this, but a lingering doubt clawed at him.
"Alya, we've done this once already. I thought things were going to settle down once we dealt with Lila, but then…things went back to going crazy. I know you care about your journalism, I do. You don't have to stop your passion, I do want to support you. But…how do I know this isn't going to happen again?" he opens his arms in a questioning gesture, his eyes filled with uncertainty and seeking an answer.
Alya gripped Nino's shoulders, a flash of determination crossing her eyes. "This time, I'm going to take care of business, once and for all." she turned around and dashed out of the room.
"Oh no, what's she gonna do now?" Nino rushes after her, putting his cap back on.
(Back at Master Fu's place)
Breaking off from the main room of Fu's flat, Miki and Adrien found themselves in a large training dojo. Each now transformed into their hero forms, Multi Mouse and Chat Noir circling each other, preparing for a sparring match.
Off the side, Ryo, Akira, and Master Fu watched on and instructed, aided by the book of the Miraculous.
"The wielder and their kwami must evolve together. Part of the process is learning alternative ways to defend the innocent. There may be times where you lose access to your weapons." Fu stroked his beard.
The detective paged through more of the book, "Ergo, martial combat. We've shown you some basics, so give it a spin." Ryo gave the two an amused grin.
Miki shimmied back and forth, "You ready Chat?"
"Let's do it." Chat Noir replied, getting into a fighting stance.
A moment passes, then the guardian gestures for them to begin.
"Kick his ass, Miki!" the devilman cheers.
The two heroes circle and dance around each other for a bit before Miki goes for a strike. Adrien blocks and grips her arm, attempting to throw her. At first Miki goes with the movements, but twists in the air to grapple around his torso and bring Adrien to the ground. Chat Noir pulls his legs up, kicks Multi-Mouse off him, and flips around as she gets ready for another bout.
Fu raises an eyebrow, "They have some past experience it seems."
Ryo waves it off. "Basics. I'm sure Adrien had to use his fists more than once. And Miki…well she's got Akira and Kagami to show her a few tricks."
"What can I say?" Akira shrugs his shoulders, "She's got spunk."
This time Multi-Mouse plays the defensive as Chat Noir goes in for a kick. She ducks under, grabs his elbow and pins it behind his back. The cat hero wraps his spare arm around the mouse hero and in a swift motion, pushes her to the ground, forcing Miki to let go.
As the two were in a lock, Akira heard his phone ringing.
"What?" he asked without seeing who it was.
"Hey, Akira. It's me again." Nino's voice came from the other end. "I need your help. Again. At least I think I will."
"Oh, Nino. What's the problem?" Akira lightened up in recognition. "Don't tell me Alya became an akuma again."
When Akira heard what Nino said next, the devilman put a firm hand to his face. "Ah, okay, gotcha. I'll be there soon as I can."
Ryo looked at him in curiosity.
"Alya's fixing to go wild on your little spy buddy," Akira answered the detective's look.
(Back at school)
Lila sat alone at a bench, observing the other students go about their lunch break from the second level outside the classrooms. Her hair now seemed significantly shorter. Still below the shoulder, but now barely beneath it. There was something…haphazard about her. Eyes seemed to scan more often, and she had the slightest fidget to her movements. After her brief turn as Miss Fortune, everyone seemed to be giving her a lot of space today. It felt oddly lonesome to Lila, and she was already rather agitated after that day.
She began to mumble to herself. "Where's Miki when you..?"
"Lila!" A daring voice rang out.
Lila turned to see Alya walking towards her at a fast pace, a glare on her face so sharp it might shatter her glasses.
Nino skipped hurriedly behind her, concern written all over his face.
"Alya," the brunette returned. She got an edging feeling on the back of her neck, and lightly grazed her fingernails against the bench seat. Her face shifted to a concerned grin. "I'm sorry if I did something to you as an akuma. What can I-"
"Spare me the "sorry" bullshit!" Alya cut in Lila's response, her hands tightening into fists. "Did you think you could mess with the people I care about and get away with it!? Because you're dead wrong!"
She pulled a hair tie out of nowhere and tied her hair back. She also took off her glasses and put them in her pocket.
"Woahwoahwoahwoahwoahwoah," Lila gets up in a near jump and starts backing away. "Look, I don't know what you're talking about but I'm sure there's an easy…" in a bout of nerves, she rubs a finger against her neck, once again realizing her akuma choker is gone. There's no making another Karmari. Her eyes race around looking for what she can do, and a few plans quickly start forming under her scared face.
"Oh? You don't know what I'm talking about?" Alya asked cynically, followed by a chuckled scoff. "Let me make it clear!" Alya pulled back her arm, and with a forceful thrust, punched Lila square in the face.
Lila made no attempt to block or dodge, instead rearing back at the strike and falling to the ground with a loud yelp. "Ah! A-Alya?" the brunette starts scooting herself back, one hand covering her nose.
This exclamation reaches a few of the students down in the courtyard. People began to slow down and heads began to turn. Hushed whispers soon became a
"Someone get a teacher."
Nino gasped, his eyes darting back and forth between his girlfriend and the crowd now forming.
Marinette and Alex made their way through the crowd, Marinette wide-eyed and Alex starting to cheer Alya on.
"L-Lila!?" Alya mocked the brunette, punching her fist in her palm. "Didn't anticipate this, did you? I'm not a puppet in your mind games anymore. I'm a real girl!"
With that, she grabbed Lila by the hair and punched her again.
(in the city)
Ryo drives along the road, Akira riding shotgun with Adrien and Miki in the back. "You don't think she's going to transform, do you?" the detective turns to his partner.
"No, even if things got bad she wouldn't take that big a risk…well maybe." the devilman shrugged and turned back to the other heroes. "Well what do you think? You two know her better than I do."
Adrien put a finger to his chin. "Alya might be more resistant this time around now that she's been through that situation twice." he sighed. "I also vaguely recall her calling me about needing to watch out for Lila cause she's actually blonde or something, though Nino got to me about it first."
"Oh, that's what she was upset about then…" Miki nervously tapped her fingers. "She was in tears when I last spoke to her, saying no one would listen anymore or something along that line. I don't know if she's riding off of that or maybe she's upset about something else now." she scratched the back of her head.
"Well, let's just hope Lila isn't a real devilhuman yet," Akira grimaced. "Or things are fixing to get nasty."
Finally, Ryo pulled the car to a halt outside the school. The three others practically bolted out to avert whatever was happening. "Call me if things get demonic," the detective pulls down his shades and locks the doors.
(back in the school courtyard)
Chaos was erupting. Alya and Lila were tumbling on the ground, each trying to get the upper hand. With Lila's recent training, she puts up a defense and acts as though she's just trying to get away. Alya, fueled by rage and drive to get even, grabs Lila's arm and twists as hard as she can, pulling the fingers back.
"You feel that? That's the kind of pain you did to Marinette!" Alya shouted. "The kind of pain you did to Nino!"
Lila only lets out a shrill scream, desperation in her eyes as more students crowd around. They all take a wary step back, struck with fear at what's happening. They hadn't seen anything like this at the school before. She grit her teeth and pulled away, but couldn't quite break free. She let out another yelp as Alya twisted harder. "Why?! What did…ah!" Tears quickly joined the blood already trailing from her nose.
"The hell is she doing?" whispered someone in the crowd.
"Someone stop her!" waivered another.
"Go Alya!" Alex shouted, tightening her fists in a cheering gesture. "Avenge your boyfriend!"
"Okay, she's taking it too far." Nino took a step forward, only to feel a hand on his shoulder stop him.
"Is this what you were talking about?"
Nino turned to see Akira, something of a savage glint in his eye. "And here I was about to miss the catfight."
"Akira, we gotta stop her before…" Nino tried to pull from the devilman's grip but to no avail. "Hey! Let go of me!"
"This battle is between them. Besides, Lila probably deserves it." Akira looks over, his demonic half getting a rush at the display before him.
"The hell are you talking about?!" Miki calls out as she and Adrien catch up to Akira. She grabs her boyfriend by the ear and pinches him hard, snapping the devilman back to his senses.
"Woah, is that Alya beating up Lila?" Adrien stared disbelievingly at the fight, then at Nino. "What happened between them?"
"Help me stop it and I'll explain." Nino takes off his glasses and adjusts his cap as he turns to break up the fight. Miki rushes in as well, Akira shoving the crowd aside so they can get in.
Alya has Lila on the floor and pulls back her fist for a big swing. Just as she's about to, Nino grips her arm.
"Alya, what are you doing? This is crazy!"
At the same time, Miki kneels down at the side Lila is on. She quickly pulls out a cloth when she sees her bleeding. "Lila! Are you okay?"
Lila only shakes and jitters with a panicked face, though seems to relax her breathing as Miki begins to wipe her clean.
"Alright ya wimps, back off!" Akira growls at the crowd. "Someone get the nurse." and one or two students rush off to look.
"I told you, I'm taking care of business." Alya said to Nino, determined to finish this fight. "And I'm not leaving till I do." She breaks free from Nino's grip, raising her arm again. "Don't forget this, bitch!"
She swings, punching Lila straight in the eye.
Another scream from Lila pierces all the noise.
The crowd goes quiet for a moment then erupts in panic as now both Nino and Adrien grab Alya by the arms and pull her back. Miki quickly pulls Lila as far back as she can, trying to stop the bleeding and prevent any more damage.
Akira spots the teachers approaching and forces the crowd to give them room.
"Out of my way!" Miss Mendeleeve shouts, making her way towards Alya. "You should be ashamed of yourself, Miss Cesaire. Picking fights like this in front of everyone."
Madame Bustier walked over to Lila, whom Miki was now helping her to her feet. "What happened?"
"She messed with my boyfriend!" Alya shouted, breaking free from Nino and Adrien's grasp. "That's what happened!"
Lila recoiled, pulling herself close to Miki with a shiver.
Miki wrapped her arms around the girl in sympathy.
Akira raised an eyebrow, but simply shrugged it off. This was going to be some trouble later, he knew it.
Lila mumbled clearly enough to be understood but shaky enough to convey her bewilderment. "Sh-she just walked up to me…and-and started h-hitting m-me…"
"Miss Cesaire, you don't need to be told twice that violence of any kind is not tolerated." Miss Mendeleeve scolded, glaring in Akira's direction as she said so. The devilman raised his hands in protest of any accusation.
"This isn't violence, it's justice!" Alya protested, pointing a finger at Lila. "She's manipulating you, and I've got someone to vouch for me!" She gestures to Marinette, who sighs loudly.
"Alya, please. Let's discuss this in a civilized manner in the principal's office." Madame Bustier said with a cross of her arms.
Alya scoffed. "We all now that's just key word for "suspension."
"Alya," Nino put a hand on his girlfriend's shoulder. "You've done enough. Please don't get into more trouble than this is worth."
"Come on, Akira." Miki gestured to the devilman, "Let's get her to the nurse."
Akira nodded, a few new thoughts crawling around the back of his head, and followed after as Miki guided Lila out of the crowd.
Alya's glare softened, and gave a reluctant nod. "Fine." With that, Alya followed Madame Bustier inside.
Standing still for a moment, Nino then sunk his head into his hands with a grumbling sigh.
"So this is how girls fight." Adrien said to no one in particular.
"Hah! That was no fight! Alya beat the crap out of Lila!" Alex said with a pumped fist.
Marinette rolled her eyes. "Read the room, Alex." she then turned to Nino, curiosity written on her face.
"So, you two are speaking again?"
The faintest laugh escaped Nino's lips under a pained grin. "...We were trying to. I thought we were making up, and then I asked how I could trust that she…" he staggered, putting his back against the wall as his head felt a little light. "I don't know what I did…maybe I should have just accepted her stuff with the website as proof enough. It's just, this shit keeps happening!"
Nino's breath grew heavy, he was holding back the urge to make any drastic movements.
Marinette began to reach out, but retracted her hand, remembering how Lila started this mess in the first place.
"None of this is your fault." Marinette reassured him. "Alya is finally taking responsibility for what she did. Maybe not in the best way, but she's making an effort, and that's what counts."
"I know I'm probably the last person to be giving advice." Adrien hesitantly started. "Though maybe establishing some boundaries will help."
Nino lets out another dry laugh and smiles, "Sure 'bud. That sounds…it…" He shudders a bit, though he can't say why. The boy's eyes seem like they're welling up.
Adrien's eyes fill with determination. Taking a step forward, he pulls his friend in for a hug. Nino freezes up for a moment, but then takes a deep breath.
He relaxes a bit as Adrien pats him on the back.
"I've got you, Nino. it's my turn to help you out for a change." the blonde says the last part as though it's a quip.
That gets a chuckle out of Nino, who lets out a sigh and smiles for real this time. "Thanks man. Could you watch out for me today? I don't wanna go villain today if I can help it."
Adrien chuckled. "Of course." Releasing, Adrien puts a hand over Nino's shoulder with a grin. "Anything for my best friend."
Nino can't help but return the grin, and grip his own hand over Adrien's shoulder. The two chuckle in camaraderie.
Marinette smiled at the two, wondering when she and Alya would be at that stage again.
"Wow, friendship is so powerful." Alex chimed in, earning another eye roll from the blue-haired heroine.
(Outside the nurse's office)
Miki and Akira stepped out of the door, having left Lila in the nurse's care.
The devilman was about to walk off, but stopped when he realized Miki wasn't moving. Turning back, he saw her standing there with her arms crossed and her hip to one side.
('Oh boy'), Akira thought. He really didn't want to do this now, but he knew better than to walk away from his girlfriend. Almost sheepishly, he strode back as Miki's expression grew more stern and expectant.
"Yes?" The devilman asked.
Miki's face immediately softened, "Akira. You know what this is about."
"Look if this is about the fight, this isn't my first brawl. Besides, she deserved it." Akira crossed his arms two, though he couldn't look his girlfriend in the eyes for some reason.
"We don't know that. The only thing for certain is that maybe she runs with a bad crowd. I've talked to her, and I can tell there's something eating at her underneath all the fairy tales she gives us." Miki opens her arms in a pleading gesture. "Surely you can give her the benefit of not being pure evil."
"She's in league with the demons. And for all we know she could be a devilhuman already." Akira sneered.
"I can smell it on her, Silene's aura. She was looking for a fight, she wanted that fight to happen. We can't trust her, especially not with demons in the mix."
Miki clenched her fists, "If I was so worried about the demons then I wouldn't have..!" she began, but stopped herself.
At the same time, Akira's frustration withered away in a flash. He knew what she was going to say.
"I…I know you're not evil. So there's a good chance she's not either." Miki's voice wavered a bit.
Akira's arms fell to his sides. "Miki, you always look for the good in people. I know that, and it's something I really love about you. It's just…Lila was like this before Silene got to her. And I'm worried with how close you two are getting that she's going to hurt you." He puts his hands gently over Miki's shoulders. "I've seen what they do to people, and…and…I've already almost lost you once. I don't want you to end up…"
Miki pulls forward, resting her head on his chest. "We need to give people a chance."
"And how many chances are you going to give her?" Akira pleaded.
"We can't solve all our problems by punching or kicking them, Akira." Miki reaches up and pulls the devilman's face down so they face eye to eye.
"I…I won't let them hurt you. I couldn't stop them before but now I can." Akira feels himself tearing up. He can't help himself, not with Miki holding him like this.
"A hero doesn't go around yelling and screaming." Miki begins to tear up too, but smiles with all the warmth in her heart. "I fell for the Akira that put himself in harm's way just to protect the innocent. Be the bunnies from back home or our classmates, and it didn't matter if you didn't stand a chance. You still have that heart, I know it. Your body is stronger, yes, and I hope that you can be strong enough to be gentle. That's the Akira I know and love."
A wave of guilt washes over the devilman. Memories and feelings rush to the surface, feelings he'd rather have kept under the skin. His shoulders slump, and he nods. "I'll make it up to you, I promise. I'll…make it up to them."
Miki wraps her arms around him, and Akira returns the gesture.
"Be careful, please," Akira pleads.
"You be careful too," Miki hugs him a bit tighter. "We're a team, right?"
This time Akira gently lifts her head. "Right. And we're gonna do this together." He gives her a kiss on the forehead. "I love you Miki."
"I love you too, Akira," the mouse hero says through the faintest blush. "Why don't you talk to her? Try getting to know her. And if you really think she's…gone, then I'll…give it to her straight."
Akira grimaced for a moment, but grinned right after. "As you wish." Miki had given him the chance, he had to try and give Lila a chance too. He owed that to his girlfriend, and to the prospect of other devil-humans.
(In the nurse's office)
Lila sat on one of the nurse's cots, lightly tracing her now swollen eye with wary fingers. She'd taken a lot more damage than she'd intended to in that fight. "Note to self," Lila mumbled, "Don't pick a fight with Alya."
"Surprised me too," Lila jolted as Akira walked by her, sitting in a chair to face her. At first she shuddered a bit, but then tilted her head in curiosity. He didn't have his normal air of hostility.
The two simply sat silent for a time, unable or unwilling to say anything. They both knew neither wanted to be in this situation. But it was ultimately Akira who spoke first.
"Look Lila, I think you and I have something in common."
The brunette's eyes slowly widened, "What are you talking about?" she began running through all the situations in her head before Akira let out a grumbling sigh. "Try to believe me when I say I'm not picking a fight here. You've had enough of that today I figure."
"Really?" Lila stops and gives him a dejected frown, "Then what does the mighty "Miki's boyfriend" want with me?"
Deciding to cut the dance, Akira stared at her dead in the eye. "I know you work for Silene."
Lila went pale in fear, which confirmed everything the devilman had heard from Ryo.
She said nothing, to which Akira scratched his head. "Now, I promised I wouldn't cause a ruckus here again, so I'm going to ask you this. Did she merge with you? I can smell her aura on you."
That got Lila to start talking again. "Wh..what are you…merge? You don't know what you're talking abo…" suddenly, the realization hit her. "…you're Devilman."
Sternly, Akira leaned forward. "Are you one like me? I don't know what she promised you but…"
"No! Whatever you're talking about, she hasn't…" Lila felt herself panicking for some reason, even as Akira turned to concern.
"Okay, I know this is a lot. Just calm down, I want to help you." Akira fought to say that last part, but he meant it as best he could.
Lila shakes her head, but stops shaking. "Why are you doing this now? I know Miki probably put you up to this but why try and reach out like this?" she started putting on her new face, "You expect me to join the heroes all of a sudden? I'm close to achieving more power than you could imagine, and I don't need your hand." There was a venom in her voice, and Akira began to lose his patience.
"You don't trust Silene, I don't believe you would." the devilman sneered. "If you don't want to keep being her pawn, you can help us fight her."
Lila stood up. "I. Am. Not. Her. Pawn!" In that moment, her eyes shifted from their normal green to blue, to which Akira raised a curious eyebrow. Realizing she was losing control again, Lila sat back down in a huff.
"So I don't want to get eaten or something. I can survive on my own. I don't know what you are but I'm not like you."
"No, but you might be soon." Akira put a fist over his heart. "If they haven't already, the demons will try and take your body. This isn't like Hawkmoth's akuma. Once they fuse with you, there's no going back."
The brunette glared at him, "You're the devilman." a grin crossed her face. "You're Devilman. You just up and confirmed it to me. You don't know what you've gotten yourself into."
Akira crossed his arms. "I'd say you don't know what you're getting yourself into either. Miki wants to give you a chance. I think you can still get out of this mess, but if you want to threaten me, I don't recommend it. I'm not Alya, and you know what I mean by that."
Lila took a step towards Akira, but the devilman stood up in turn and she stepped her back onto the cot. Her fear was replaced by anger. "I'll show you, just like I showed Marinette. Just like I showed Alya!"
Akira for the last time extended his hand. "And what do you have to show for it? Lila, you don't have to keep this all up. Join us, and we can help each other out. We can keep you safe."
Lila thought for a moment before pushing his hand away, her anger simmered but rising. "I don't need you. I don't need Miki." she swung around and got off the cot, marching out of the office.
Miki, who had been standing outside, stood back in surprise as Lila stormed out. She tried to reach out, "Lila, are you okay?"
But she began to run.
Miki swung back as Akira hurried out. "Hey, wait!"
He reached Miki as she looked out, "What happened?"
Akira scratched his head, "I tried to offer her an alliance against the demons. I…probably ticked her off with something."
Miki nearly gasped, but nodded. She turned back from him to see Lila run out of the courtyard and leave school. "Oh no. Akira, we need to get to her. There's no telling what she'll do now…"
Nodding, Akira began to run. Miki followed after him, her training proving its use as they both bolted after the runaway brunette.
(Back by the docks)
Luka stood outside his bedroom door, smiling to himself. He just finished a phone call with Marinette, who told him about the fight at school. He knew it was only a matter of time before she and Alya started talking again. After all, nobody can hold a grudge forever. As the musician entered his room, his eyes fell upon a unique little box sitting on his bedside table.
A gift perhaps?
Curious, he picked the box up and opened it. A flash of silver blue sparkles flew out of the box. Luka blinked wildly as the sparkles cleared, revealing a tiny, deep blue creature. It was a curious thing, floating in the air with it's tufts of silver fur and tiny claws on its mitts. The creature bowed before opening its eyes, one a sky blue and the other a golden yellow. "Greetings, chosen of the guardian. I am Ash, the wolf kwami."
"Woah!" Luka's eyes sparkled in fascination. "You're like a wolf version of Ticki!"
The kwami's grin flattened out in an instant, and she drooped a bit in the air. "So…this isn't your first time seeing one of us." But Ash quickly shook her head and continued. "Then as you can probably guess, you have been selected to become a permanent wielder of the wolf Miraculous. With it, you will be able to control great power, as quick and swift as the wind itself."
"Permanent wielder?" Luka's eyes widened in surprise. "Does that mean I keep you, just like Ladybug keeps her miraculous?"
"Indeed, Luka. You must understand though, as a permanent wielder you must keep your identity a secret from all but the most trustworthy. Even then, you risk them becoming an akuma and using that knowledge against you. Will you accept this power, and do you understand the responsibility that power comes with?"
Luka took a moment to process all of this. This is it.
A chance to prove Ladybug what he is capable of as a partner, as well as protect the city he loves. He turned to his new kwami with a determined grin. "I understand and accept this opportunity. Prepare me for battle!"
The kwami's firm expression softened into a smile. "Very well. I look forward to working with you, Luka. Your hero tool is a bow and arrow. Your given power is the "Swift wind", with which you can move at super speed and bind enemies with wind energy. Once you choose to return to normal speed, you have five minutes before your power runs out."
Luka nodded. "Ok, so super speed and traps. And a bow and arrow, got it."
"Why don't we go on a trial run? Go around the city for a bit, get used to the powers." The wolf kwami suggests. Place the collar around your neck and give this command: "Ash, Let's Dash!"
Ash, Let's Dash!" Luka repeats with a pumped up fist.
Gusts of wind surround Luka as Ash splits into blue streaks of energy. One streak forms into a jacket around his torso, a bodysuit forming under it that covers the rest of his body. Other bits of energy form a belt, boots, and gauntlets to cover his freshly suited arms and legs. A bow and arrow forms above him, which the new hero grabs. As he does so, a final streak of energy covers his face, forming into a finned mask as his eyes flash with color. Looking before him and feeling the power as he poses, Luka's eyes are now like the kwamis. The left is a friendly blue, right a cheerful yellow.
"Double woah." exclaimed the new hero, taking in his new look. "Hm, gotta think of a name…" he ponders the other heroes. Short and to the point. Some in relation to color. Snapping his fingers in realization, Luka smiles wide. "I'll be 'Fenris Blue'."
(Miki/Lila fallout)
Miki and Akira ran through town, the devilman using his senses to detect the energy radiating off of Lila. There was something different about her aura now, something different from any demon and wrong in a way he couldn't describe.
Lila glanced behind as she ran across a bridge, seeing the two behind her. She pushed further forward, panting as she ran. But Akira and Miki simply outmatched her in stamina. Lila could tell they were gaining, and soon couldn't push herself any further. Seeing a nearby alley, Lila ducked into it.
Akira was ready to rush in, but Miki placed a hand on his shoulder. Looking back, he saw Miki, her eyes angrily holding back tears. "I told you…I'd give it to her straight. I'm just going to try…one last time."
Grimly nodding, Akira stepped back and followed behind Miki as she strode towards the panting Lila.
The bruised girl was catching her breath, and seemed astounded to see Miki not having burnt a sweat for as far as she had ran.
"Lila,"
"Don't. You. Start." Lila pointed an accusatory finger at Miki, who stood but an arms reach from her. "How did you run so fast?"
"I'm on the fencing team. I started running." Miki rubbed her arm, glancing to the side and back to Lila. "Please, whatever's going on, let's just talk this out."
Lila gave a dry chuckle, "I've had enough 'talking'. All I do is 'talk'. There's no soul to any of it, to any of this!" her face is twisted into a pained growl, stinging from her bruised eye. "I know you're not stupid. You must realize everything I've done."
"I don't want to believe it, but…" Miki tried desperately to find the right words. "But I know you're also being used. We can try to help you. I promise…"
"Oh spare me your sanctimony, Miki." Lila snarled at her, now staggering to an upright stance. "You think this whole world is sunshine and rainbows, that we can all be friends by just reaching out to peoples hearts. Well this whole city is infested with evils beyond what you can imagine. One lives right behind you."
The acolyte sneered at the devilman, who barely held back his own growl. "Your boyfriend, Akira? You don't know what he really is, you don't know what I really am."
Now Miki shook, to which Lila grinned in satisfaction.
Akira looked ready to tear her limb from limb, but Miki held out an arm in front of him.
"I can tell you everything, Miki. You think after everything both of us have done that you can trust him? You think I'm your friend?" Lila stepped forth, daring Miki to answer.
"I know you were."
Lila's pride turned to utter dismay as Miki let out a sniffle. "I've known for a while now…about Akira, about you…I know you live in a lie." She turned her head up to look Lila eye to eye. "Yet, despite everything, you still came to me. I could see that there's good in you, I just wanted to give you…a chance to show it."
Lila staggered back, shaking her head. "No. No. That's impossible…there's no way you…"
"Please, Lila. I know you're hurting. And it hurts to see you hurt. We can stop the demons, we can stop Hawkmoth. Whatever your endgame is, we can still be happy together. Just…let us help you. Join us. Please, Lila. I'm your friend." Miki's voice was trembling, and she outstretched her hand to Lila with as good a smile she could muster as her eyes fought back sadness.
Lila stood in disbelief. This wasn't possible. It was another ruse. It had to be. "You're lying to me…you're trying to play me! You can't beat me at my own game!" She slapped away Miki's hand, to which the tears slowly began to surface.
"Lila…I'm not…"
"Now listen here, Miki. I'm done playing nice with you." Lila was nearly hissing at this point. "I know everything. I know about Ryo being a demon hunter. I know Akira is Devilman. I know who Ladybug and Chat Noir are. I know who Hawkmoth is. I have all the cards now!"
Akira simply stared in disgust at Lila. Miki began to cry, not wanting to believe what was happening.
Lila leaned in close, "And unless you want me to blow the top off your friends' lives, and expose your little boyfriend, you are going to do exactly. What. I. Say. Got it?" The liar sneered at Miki, assured in her own success. Akira was being held back, and Miki was at her most vulnerable. Lila was going to break her, and she was going to make the devilman watch. This was it, her chance to start the end of Ladybug.
Then Miki raised her arm and struck Lila.
Lila fell backwards, crashing to the ground. Her body was giving out, bruised from the fight and sore from her running already. She tried to get up, but slumped back down as Miki stepped forth and stared her down.
"No, Lila." Miki's face poured forth tears of anguish. "You're going to shut up and listen to me. You're going to tell us who Hawkmoth is." Even as she demanded, Miki's face was torn.
"Am I?" Lila spat, trying her best to keep up a face despite the tide turning. "Or what? You're going to give me a stern talking to? Please." She'd propped herself up at this point.
Miki's face grew dark and lowered, tears now dripping on the pavement. She lowered her outstretched arm, and raised the other. She snapped her fingers together, a cold ring sounding.
Akira let out a deep growl, setting upon Lila before she could even scream. The Devilman grabbed her by the neck and pinned her against the alley wall. She saw no remorse in his eyes now. The sincerity he had shown her but minutes ago was gone.
Miki looked up at Lila, her tears drying up and her face looking sad and tired. "You're going to tell us who Hawkmoth is, or I'm going to let something happen that I never thought I would."
Lila could barely process her new wave of fear before Akira tightened his grip on her ever so slightly.
"Answer her!" Akira shrieked, his eyes blazing with anger. "Who the fuck is Hawkmoth!?"
"It's Gabriel Agreste! It's Gabriel Agreste!" Lila yelped in fear.
Akira dropped her, and Lila crumpled to the floor.
Miki's heart sank even further as this new revelation hit her and Akira.
"Fuck." the devilman murmured.
"Oh no. Nononononono." Miki gripped her hair. This couldn't be.
"You didn't already know?" Lila choked. "You're detective buddy Ryo figured it out long before I did. I'm guessing he didn't tell you."
As she neared a cackle, Lila slunk on the floor trying to get her footing. She stopped dead as Miki stepped in front of her. "I really did want to believe in you, Lila," her tears had gone dry and ashen, but the melancholy in her voice rang true. "I tried so hard to reach you. We hugged, we spoke candidly together. Even when you lashed out, I tried to offer you my hand."
The gravity of Miki's words began to sink into Lila. "But I can't do this anymore. I wanted to help you, but you don't want to be helped. You'd rather take us all down than take my help. You'd openly threaten the people I love now. I'm done." Shedding a final tear, Miki turns and walks away. She lightly tugs at Akira, who wraps his arm around her.
Lila sputters in rage as Miki shudders and leans into Akira. "So you're leaving me now too!?" She roars at them, coughing under her own strain.
Miki stops, only turning her head back. "You made your choice, Lila." She says, pity turned to resolve. "Now live with it."
Akira seemed as though he wanted to say something, but instead he chose to pull Miki a bit closer and lead her away. She reached up for his hand, gripping it tight. The devilman nearly shed tears himself as Miki silently walked away with him.
…
Lila's shoulders slumped, feeling a sting in her heart. She swore a silent vengeance…but against who? Ladybug? Miki? Devilman? She only focused on those three, unable to handle the idea that this was somehow her own doing. "You're wrong. I'll show you. I'll show you all."
She then heard a cold soft voice behind her, one she'd hoped she wouldn't hear this day.
"Of course you will, dear Lila. You've been through so much just today." Lila felt her head getting fuzzy as a pale white haired woman appeared out of the shadows. She knelt down and raised Lila's head with her hand. "I know what you want, my dear. You want their loyalty, their adoration, their fear."
The girl shook her head as Silene helped her up. "I…I don't…"
"Dearest," Silene tilted her head with a twisted smile. "You don't need to lie to yourself too. I have a gift. Something special. Something just. For. You."
Authors' Notes:
Dancecat25: Bonjour, beautiful readers. We had several things going on in this chapter to make up for it. One friendship is mending while another falls apart. Lila got a taste of what she deserves for the witch that she is, and we've got ourselves a new hero in the mix.
Aladar Caval: Whew. This was just…woah. A lot more than I had thought. Guess that's what happens when I try to lean harder into the Devilman side of this fic. I start writing obsessively late at night and just…It's passion but maybe a bit unhealthy. It's stress relief from college though, and especially fun to write alongside Dancecat.
Dancecat25: I second that. This fic is great escapism, and allows us to try all kinds of things at once. Speaking of which, things have been going too well with the DM trio, so now we're stirring things up. Is Lila going to expose Ladybug? Where do Alya and Nino's relationship stand? Find out in the next chapter of Miraculous Devilman! Cat Out!
Aladar Caval: This is the last time we work on two chapters at a time. Y'all are getting a double feature here. Until the next battle, enjoy these. 'Til all are one.'