Chapter Two:
Seriously, in the Middle of Break?
Luka's POV
As the lesson progressed, my evidently poor English skills were showing, and I wondered why the first additional languages are so difficult. "Luka?" A voice called me out of my reflection on my lacking English proficiency. "Yes?" I asked her, "We have a paired activity, and I was just making sure that you're okay to work with me," she said. "I'm good to work with you, but a fair warning, my English needs serious help," I told her honestly. She laughed a little, "I did notice, but don't worry I'm pretty competent. That's what happens when you grow up with Stan Lee's comics and watch both the dubbed and subbed version of anime," she explained wiggling her index finger with a grin.
Our paired activity was a dialogue on a topic of our choice and after discussing our ideas in French, Rairakku began translating them and taught me how to say them. She ensured it was correct by looking at our dictionaries and some notes she had. "So, do you think you can handle it, Luka?" She asked me, "Definitely, the dialogue is something really relatable," I said confidently. "Well, you did agree to my art sentiment pretty quickly, so I figured you must also have a creative aspect that you adore," she explained.
"You're pretty observant," I remarked, "Thank you," she smiled. "So, what is your art form?" she asked, "Music, it's my everything basically," I answered. "Oh, a musician, you do have the looks for it. Kinda like that famous rockstar… Jagged Stone," she said, "Are you a fan of Jagged as well?" I asked. She chuckled at my enthusiasm, "No, that would be my mum. She was a fan of his from the time he sang with his partner in their duo, I think it was Croco Duo," she explained.
"Oh," I said, feeling a bit disappointed, she started giggling and I turned to her, "If you are that disappointed, then you are more musically obsessed than I thought," she said while giggling in between. I raised my eyebrows in question, "Okay, okay, I was teasing a bit. I'm not his greatest fan since I prefer my boybands, but I am a bit of a Jagged Stone fan, just a bit since he is kinda funny. But to be completely honest I think that it was better when he was in Croco Duo with that cool female singer," she says.
"So, Mr musically obsessed. What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any other interests?" she asked, "Well, I write songs and spend time with my mum and little sister. I do also have a pizza delivery job," I say. "Oh, you have a little sister too. How old and what's her name?" she asked, "Juleka, she's fourteen, she's actually in this school in Miss Bustier's class," I replied, "Mine too, well cousin technically, her name is Marinette," she says excitedly.
"Woah, that is cool," I reply, "Yep, but now what I meant earlier as well as what do you do for fun?" she asked, I admit that I became blank when she said that. "I find those things fun," I state, she shook her head, "Okay, admirable in a sense… but there has to be more than that Lu," she said. "Okay, how about you?" I asked and she smirked, "Listen well musically obsessed, it's a bit. First off, I love spending time with Mari-chan, oba and oji, that is my aunt and uncle, baking with them is the best. My art is my work, I'm a mangaka, and to relate it to your understanding it is like a comic book artist or writer… I'm not that popular, but my series does all right," she started explaining.
What she had explained seemed to relate to my work, music, and time with mum and Juleka. "What I do for fun is watch some anime, immerse myself in my favourite music, bake and I also plan to spend time with and develop relationships with some new friends," she explained. When she started the last part, she smiled sweetly at me, and I felt myself smile in response.
"Maybe I could learn from you, well if you are willing to take me under your wing," I said, she pretended to think about it. "I mean what could it hurt," she said nonchalantly and smiled, "I'd love to Luka, I think I could learn from you as well," she added. "I guess this makes us partners for all our classwork from now on as well?" she stated but looked at me questioningly. For a moment this girl who had been nothing but confident and sure of herself seemed vulnerable, "Guess so," I said. "Friends?" I asked stretching out my hand, "Friends," she said shaking it.
"Okay, class is about to end so I'm going to collect the dialogues now to check. When I'm done marking it, we will move on to presenting it," Madam Simonè stated and came around to collect the papers. "Hey Raira, I haven't really read comics before and definitely have never read a manga. So, I was wondering if maybe I could try something new by having a look at your work… How much do you sell it for?" I asked, I mean if she is selling her craft, I can't just ask without being willing to pay for it.
"Well since I haven't set a price here in France and have just finished my draft for the French version, I shall just give you this as a gift since you are my first friend here," she said pulling out a book from her bag. The cover was beautiful even though it was very simple, there were a mixture of black and navy blue with starry details and snowflakes in silver appearing on the top half of the book. A tree trunk was on the spine of the book with its branches extending to the edge of the cover with soft pink and white flowers decorating them.
In the bottom corner of the back cover which was actually the front of the book? Well at this bottom corner was a silhouette of a couple sitting on a hill with a snowflake in the hand of the girl. The title of the 'manga' was 'The Dimension Shattering Ice Queen' and on the front cover was a barcode and small introduction to the series. At a second look at the spine, I saw the publisher's symbol on the top, the middle was the title in Japanese, I'm not sure what the symbols are called, and in the bottom the number 1 in a fancy font.
"Firstly, this cover alone is amazing. Also, I can pay for it, I mean this looks so professional and I would like to support you," I tried she laughed, "Firstly, thank you, I designed it myself and found a great artist who brought it to life. Now… support me but you just met me," she said and shook her head before answering me seriously with this infectious smile that never seemed to leave her features. "I appreciate the sentiment Luka, and when I set up here and if you enjoy my story and want to continue the series. Well, then I'll let you buy them," she stated, I think I will check if they are available online.
The bell soon rang for our next class, and I heard a groan next to me, so I turned to look at Raira, "What's wrong?" I asked. "We have Mathematics next and that is most definitely not my strong suit. I mean I'm decent at Geometry, but somehow, I always get my math equations wrong," she explained. I smiled, "Don't worry that's my strong suit and I can help you out if you need it," I said, she looked at me in surprise before she smiled gratefully.
Rairakku's POV
An hour later after the Mental Abuse to Humans called Math... Yeah, that picture I saw once was so accurate. I was walking to break with Luka, I held my leather jacket over my shoulder in what I hoped looked cool. He had helped me to understand our math work earlier and I had a couple of answers correct, now we were in the midst of an important discussion.
"Sooo, I understand that you have not watched Japanese anime, even though the big three have been around for a long time and Black Clover and Demon Slayer has made it popular internationally. However, not even some great French animations Lu? Then there's the fact that you do not know Stan Lee and Marvel comics!" I said, 'How is my only friend so obsessed with his craft that he doesn't know about some of the most popular international works. Why?' I question anyone who could be paying attention to my mental rant.
He runs a hand through his black and teal hair, "Guess I'm behind in your world. As I said my music just takes all my time," he said with a chuckle. "Come on Luka, you're telling me that music is your hobby, pass time and basically everything apart from school?" I asked. He nodded, "It's admirable, but you need to broaden your interests. I mean I love being a mangaka, but I don't sit with it all the time. I bake with my family, go out and play games," I stated waving my hand for emphasis.
"You do have a point so let's start with anime where do you suggest I begin, oh wise one?" he asked with a smile. "Hmm, since you're a musician... I think 'Your Lie in April' is a good start, especially since it's a short one, fair warning though many have cried after the anime," I stated. He looked at me curiously, "Have you?" He asked, "Of course, I'm pretty invested, and you will understand after you finish it," I answered. "I have it on my hard drive back home, so I can transfer them to lend it to you if you'd like," I added, "Cool, so do you just happen to have it around all the time?" He asked.
I shrug, "I just keep the best anime series on hand. To show my Mari-chan or to re-watch it when I want to. I also keep my planning and already published work on the hard drive too," I explained. He nodded in understanding, "Well, you are really invested in it. Guess I will understand why soon," he said. I smiled, "I hope so... And hopefully I will determine if you cried after watching," I said with a smirk. "What if I lie about it?" He asked, "Nothing escapes these all-seeing lilac eyes... I will know," I answered and let out a light laugh.
"Sorry, I just thought how my little Bluebell would have understood my anime reference," I said and almost like fate, I spotted my imōto. "Who's Blue... Hey Raira!" Luka called after me as I dashed to her, 'I enjoy that he is calling me Raira it's usually Rai, so it's been a while,' I thought. "Marinette!" I called back, seeing him running after me in confusion, making Marinette turn to me as I tackled her in a hug. "BLUEBELL!" I exclaimed making her laugh, "Oneesan, I need to breathe!" She said while laughing.
Luka's POV
Where the heck is she running to? Was all I thought as I ran after her... Why am I running after her? Honestly, I don't know, this girl is just something else, I think as I shake my head in disbelief. She then shouts, "BLUEBELL!" As she tackles a girl with the same skin tone and hair colour as her. The girl's hair was shorter and her eyes a soft blue, oh this must be her little sister. I then saw the girls with her and spotted my sister among them.
"Juleka," I called to her, "Hey," she said quietly. 'That's my shy sister for you,' I thought, "Oh this is Juleka, nice to meet you, Belle. I love your hair" Raira said to Juleka, who began to blush. "Thanks," she said and looked away still blushing at the compliment, Raira giggled.
"And what about the rest of you?" She asked the other girls as she rested her head on Marinette's left shoulder while her arm was draped on her right shoulder. "First, I'm assuming this is Bluebell, your cousin and little sister Marinette?" I ask, "Oh right, sorry Luka. This is my Mari-chan. Marinette, girls, this is Luka my first and currently only friend in our class," she introduced us. "Oh, and Lu, no using the nickname Bluebell. I'm territorial and that's my name for her," she added sticking out her tongue at me which made me laugh at her cute childish ways...
'Wait cute?' I push the thought out as I throw my hands up in defeat, "Yes mam," I said and look at Marinette, "A pleasure to meet you Marinette, your sister has mentioned you quite a bit in our time together," I say to her. "A pleasure to meet you too Luka, Juleka told us about you. Rai-neesan I hope you didn't say anything embarrassing," she smiled and turned to Raira, who now stood straight next to her, while almost whining out the last part. "I am innocent, completely innocent. Lu is my witness!" Raira dramatically replied with her slight gestures and then looked at me, and the scene made us laugh.
"Girl, your expressions with your sister are just adorable and her theatrics are out of this world," a caramel-skinned girl with brown and orange hair commented in between her laughter. "Thank you thank you," Raira gave a bow to the right and to the left, making us laugh even more, I came next to her and put my arm on her shoulder.
"Don't worry Marinette, your sister has not embarrassed you, just herself," I stated teasingly, "How so musically obsessed?" she asked glancing at me. "In the subject, we had before the break," I said, she let out a groan and then stepped in front of me, "Well if that is the case, then you were even more embarrassing in our first subject," she countered while poking my chest.
"Touché your icy highness," I replied bringing her hand to my lips and giving her a slight bow. Maybe I went a bit too far with my slightly flirty behaviour. "Furansuhito to anata no ren'ai e no shūchaku (AN: Translation - French and your love obsession)," Raira had said quickly in what I can only guess is Japanese and pulled her hand back as if she got burnt. "Uh Mari, I think your sister's theatrics rubbed off on Juleka's brother and I think he broke her," the girl from earlier said making everyone laugh.
Everyone's laughter had given Raira some time to calm down, I felt bad for going overboard so I decided to try to tone it down. We did just meet today, maybe she will warm up to that side of me later. "Icy highness?" Raira asked me, "You are my ice queen," I replied and held up her manga, I am so sure that she had a slight blush. "You haven't even read it yet," she said, "I know, but artists do put, at least, part of themselves in their work," I replied.
"But I haven't shown an icy personality, I've been pretty warm and friendly," she said, "Yes you have but when you entered and put them in their place, that was cold. It was so cool but cold, then when we had our stare-down, I could have frozen over. Maybe the ice queen has a soft secret side under her frozen exterior," I replied. She lightly punched my arm before turning her attention to Marinette and the others, some boys from her class had joined the group now.
"Hey there are more people, it's like your whole class is here Mari-chan," she said, "As I said earlier, I'm Rairakku, you can call me Rai. I look forward to getting to know you, kids," she introduced herself. "Hey everyone, I'm Luka, Raira's friend and Juleka's older brother. Nice to meet you all," I said and soon we were introduced to the whole group.
Third Person POV
"I love the Ladyblog, I've been watching it from Japan," she said to Alya, "What I have had an international fan! This is so cool, I'm so glad you like my humble blog," Alya replied. "So, Nathaniel you're an artist too?" she asked a while later, "Yes, but I haven't really shared my work. I'm sure it could be better," he said, "Do you have any that I can see?" she asked.
"I used to have a crush on Marinette and this comic is from that time, it's just one of my best works," he said and hesitantly gives her one of his comics, "Secret's safe with me," she told him. "Huh, I said used to. I don't have a crush on her now," he defended himself, but she just moves her index finger in rejection of his claim. "If that were true this would not be the comic you believe is your best work," she stated, "Also Nat, this is incredible work. Adding more details in these panels would really bring it up," she added.
"You're right, but I thought it would be too much," he said, "Not at all, readers enjoy background detail and more detail overall. It makes the artist's efforts better received," she explained. "How do you know that?" he asked her, "Oh, I didn't tell you," she said with a chuckle, "Thing is, I'm a small-time mangaka," she stated. "No way! Do I know it? What is it called?" he asked, "The Dimension Shattering Ice Queen," she answered simply.
Nathaniel gasped, "I love that manga series!" he exclaimed, "Really? How did you read it? I just finished the French version when I knew I was coming to Paris. The only person who had a French copy before that was Mari-chan," she asked. "Oh, I've been learning Japanese for a while. It was difficult but I managed to follow through. I'm probably your biggest fan here in France," he answered, "I'm impressed, and I would guess that you're my only fan," she simply stated.
"Please tell me you are going to join the art club. You could even be a teacher's assistant!" he suggested excitedly making her laugh, "I'll think about it, it should be fine as long as it's not the same time as fencing," she said, "It's not, you can definitely do both," he told her, doing his best to get her to join, "I guess you've twisted my arm. Hai, I'll join," she stated. He hugged her, "Yes, art class is going to be so much cooler now!" he said.
"What's all this excitement?" Luka asked, "Nathaniel just talked me into joining the art club. He's my biggest fan," Rairakku answered as Nathaniel sheepishly released her from the hug and awkwardly apologised. She laughed and told him it was fine. "Hey, I was thinking of joining too since it would be a great space to develop my music. Now that I'm no longer friends with that group, I can check it out," he said, "Were they that controlling?" she asked, "Not really, they would have just been annoying with their insults," he replied. "Well, I guess the three of us have art class in the art club," she stated, "Guess so," he laughed, and Nathaniel simply nodded excitedly.
Meanwhile, in the teacher's staff room, madam Simonè was sitting and listening to another ranting session about her class. Specifically, her five troublesome students, now four... "A young teacher like yourself does not have the experience to handle a class like that, especially with those kids," one of the teachers commented. "I'm sure madam Simonè is able to handle them, she may be young, but she is a great teacher," Caline Bustier said in her friend's defence, "Thank you Caline, and my students are not as bad as they once were, and the new student is really helpful and respectful..." she started but was cut off by the mathematics teacher.
"Yes, I heard how she took a stand against those five and then you make her sit with that boy in the back of the class," he said. "That boy is Luka Couffaine, and he is a good student who joined the wrong group for a while. He is a good young man, monsieur Non-Raffiné," she defended her student's character as she wondered how he knew what happened. "Good young man? I'll give him credit for being one of the top students in my class, but his appearance is less to be desired. Also, those two were talking during my lesson and you know I can't tolerate that," monsieur Non-Raffiné stated.
"No, Rairakku would not do that," she stood up for her new student. "How do you know she did not try to deceive you?" Another teacher asked. "She's an honest young lady, she has a good character," madam Simonè stated, standing her ground. "I'm sure she is a good student, her cousin is in my class, and she is an exemplary student," Caline added, "You both haven't been teaching for long, how do you know that so confidently?" He asked, "I just know," she stated, "So do I," Caline agreed.
"Like you just knew those kids whom you defend every day are worth all this miss Simonè. Miss Bustier's class are still young, but yours are the seniors of our school and it certainly doesn't show. They have behaved terribly and what does that say about your teaching abilities? You know that no one ever blames the children... the blame usually falls on us the teachers and you are their form teacher," monsieur Non-Raffiné said coldly.
That was all she could take, "I'm sorry, please excuse me," she said and left the staff room and walked to the restroom, "That was too far, monsieur Non-Raffiné," Caline stated and followed after her friend. Every lunch break she would try to defend her class, even though they were a handful, she cared for them deeply. Was it all worth it? Played in her mind as she looked at a keychain, she had received from one of her learners when she first started teaching.
"Lya, are you okay?" Caline asked as she entered the restroom, "What if he's right Cal, what if they all are right?" she asked. "Athalya, you are an amazing teacher. Monsieur Non-Raffiné is too stuck in his ways to see just how amazing you are at your job," she tried to encourage her friend. "It's all of them Cal, not just him. So, they must have a point," she stated as she began to cry. Was she cut out for this? her thoughts seemed to drown her in doubt and sadness...
Unfortunately for her, it made her perfect prey for an Akuma. Caline was too focused on consoling her friend that she didn't see the dark purple butterfly quietly landing on the keychain until it was too late. It turned the keychain to reflect the darkness it carried. "Disciplinary, I am Hawkmoth. You're beginning to wonder if you're really suited for this calling. I assure you that you are, and I can help you be better if you allow me to. All you need to do for me in return is bring me Ladybug and Cat Noir's miraculous," a voice whispered to her as a butterfly mask outlined her face. "I accept these terms, thank you Hawkmoth," she simply said as she became consumed by the dark power.
In the area where the students enjoyed their break, the group of Luka, Rairakku, Marinette and her friends were seated happily enjoying their lunch with light conversation. However, they were soon interrupted, the siren sounded signalling an akuma attack and the appearance of an akumatised individual with a clipboard and pen that had a keychain attached to it. "I am Disciplinary and it's time for some changes. Any unacceptable behaviour lands you in detention and I'll start with my four troublesome students," she said as the students on break began to run to safety.
Rairakku's POV
The new villain 'Disciplinary' appeared during our lunch break, I stood up as soon as the students began running and turned to my imōto and new friends. "You all run now, I'm going to stall her," I stated in a serious tone and gave my imōto a look that said please be safe. "Oneesan, it's too dangerous!" She exclaimed, "I know Mari-chan, but you know facing danger runs in my blood... And that's my teacher I will be able to distract her so you all can run. Now go!" I shouted at them. Luka stood by my side, "I'll stay with you, it is our teacher and we both have sisters to protect," he stated.
I nodded and looked at Marinette, urging her to go. She reluctantly ran with her friends, I'm sure she understood that the faster she runs and finds a way to transform the better. "Luka, we need to buy them enough time and then you need to get to safety," I stated as we ran toward Disciplinary. "You mean we need to get to safety," he said, I nodded even though I knew that I wouldn't let that happen since we don't know how she will react towards him. "Not doing your homework and running in the corridors. Detention for you!" She exclaimed as she wrote on her clipboard and threw a slip at a student who was running. The boy disappeared and she turned away in search of her next victim, "Madam Simonè!" We called as we stood before her.
"Rairakku and Luka, I heard you were talking in your mathematics class. Is this true?" She asked us, I thought back to the class and I know I did not speak as he was speaking. Maybe he doesn't like talking in his class at all, 'Damn it!' I cursed in my mind. "Yes madam, I'm sorry, but it was after he had finished teaching. I did not understand something while completing an exercise and Luka explained it to me because Math is my weak subject," I explained. She considered what I said, "I don't think you would lie to me Rairakku, but what if I had made a mistake by making Luka sit next to you?" She questioned and turned her attention to Luka.
"I don't think you made a mistake Madam Simonè. She helped me to do better in the English activity you gave us, and I helped her with the Math activity. You know I wouldn't lie to you, madam and I support your judgement," he stated making her features soften. "I knew you both were the students I said you are. You being in my class, Rairakku made me think that you would be good for Luka... I'm glad I was right, you two don't have detention," she said and was about to move on. "Wait Madam Simonè, why are you doing this? What happened?" I asked, "Is there any way that we can help?" Luka added.
"It's a teacher matter, nothing for you two to concern yourselves with. I'm looking for Venin, Reine, Menaçant and Mesquin. Do you know where they are?" She asked, how did I know it was them that had some part in this? "No, we haven't seen them, madam. We were on break with our younger friends," I said and before any of us could say or do anything else Ladybug and Chat Noir arrived on the scene.
"You two please leave for your own safety," Ladybug said to us, we nodded and began to run from the scene. I felt her turn her attention away from us, "Disciplinary, this stops here," she stated facing our Akumatised teacher. "I agree with Milady, madam, I don't have time for detention... I'd much rather have a cat nap," Chat Noir stated as he leaned on his staff. Most of the students had been evacuated and we found them on the school's grounds.
However, I could not stay with the other students, I couldn't leave my imōto in there, even though she was a superhero. I slip on my jacket and put on my hood as I move away from the crowd of students discreetly and managed to find a secluded spot away from observers. "It's safe for you to come out now Gin," I said and a grey creature with eyes that matched mine flew out from my jacket.
This was the surprise I had for my imōto, Master Fu had entrusted me with the wolf miraculous to assist with these battles. Gin my fluffy little wolf pup is a serious and wise kwami, but he can be quite playful. "Rairakku, is it time for our appearance?" He asked I nodded, as I untied the ribbon on my left ankle to reveal a simple silver anklet with little opal studs at set intervals and a pendant of a wolf howling in front of a crescent moon just above my ankle bone serving as the clasp.
"Just say the magic words," he grinned, "Right," I said with a smirk. "Gin, dusk settles!" I exclaim as my grey wolf pup was sucked into my anklet turning the anklet a dark grey with the wolf charm and opal studs changing to lilac. My transformation starts from my feet, starting as a dark grey that lightens as it rises and changes to lilac above my abdomen. The lilac stretches to my hand to create an effect of grey gloves with my nails turning into silver claws. I run my clawed fingers through my hair creating furry grey wolf ears and changing it from navy blue to a striking silver colour that transitions to lilac.
A fluffy grey tail with a hint of white at the tip comes out behind me just below my waist. Above my tail is a dark grey leather belt resting on my waist at an angle with a pack of the same colour and strapped next to the pack is a whip with a silver metal handle and the ribbon attached to it was lilac in colour. I use my whip to swing over to the scene, I definitely feel like Spider-man right now, but I need to focus now and get to my imōto fast.
Each opal, now lilac, stud on my anklet represents my energy level with my wolf pendant being the last of my energy, this means I have plenty of time to be transformed. I do need a name for when I get there, Tsuki Hana perhaps… No, a Japanese name would be kinda obvious it needs to be French at least. I let out a sigh, this is gonna take some effort and I don't have a lot of time, I really should have thought of this earlier.
I arrive above the middle of the battle to see that madam Simonè, I mean Disciplinary has brought back the detainees as her servants. She has managed to disarm the two heroes by 'Confiscating' their weapons, throwing her slips at it as they tried to defend themselves. Luckily, Ladybug called her Lucky Charm before the confiscation could happen to leave a mysterious tool in her hands...
"A magnet fishing pole from the fishing game?" She asked, "If you're planning to catch me lunch Milady, I'm on a paper diet," Chat Noir stated dodging the detainees. They must pose some threat if both Ladybug and Chat Noir are backing away, 'Well, let's jump right in,' I thought. "Mind if I drop in?" I asked jumping down onto a detainee that almost touched Ladybug and flipped over him before he could touch me.
"Who are you?" The two asked as they regrouped behind me, "Name's Loup D'argent (A/N: The pronunciation sounds like Lou•dar•jon, you can Google translate Silver Wolf to French and you will get it, now back to the story), wolf miraculous holder. A pleasure to meet you Ladybug and Chat Noir," I said as I swat away the approaching detainees with my whip. "Likewise," they said together, "You came in at a great time Loup D'argent, these numbers were beginning to overwhelm us," Ladybug said.
"If it's a numbers game then one of my special abilities would be beneficial, and I can hold out longer than you two since I'm a bit older," I explained, "One ability allows me to create solid full-sized clones of myself while the other creates after image clones," I stated. "That's awesome it would help us to defeat them. That is as long as they don't manage to grab you since that turns you into a detainee," Chat Noir said, I smiled and nodded my thanks knowing exactly which one to use.
"But before that, I need to know if you have found out where the Akuma is," I glanced at them for an answer after I hit away more detainees. "We know it's between the clipboard and pen," Ladybug said, "Sorry lovebug, it's not there, take a closer look at that keychain on her pen," I stated while trying not to sound too obvious.
"Dark purple and it glows as she writes names. How could I miss that?" She asked herself. "Relax bugaboo we all make mistakes right Loup D'argent?" Chat Noir asked, "Kitten is right, lovebug. Now chin up and let's catch that Akuma," I said confidently, "I'm a cat, not a kit..." Chat began to protest but was interrupted by Disciplinary.
Third Person POV
Disciplinary had managed to get a hold of three teachers and transform them into copies of herself. Making dodging the detention slips three times harder on top of not getting touched by the detainees which would turn you into a detainee too. Loup D'argent had noted which Disciplinary was the original, "The Disciplinary I attack first is the original one," she called out and put her left foot forward as she activated her miraculous power.
"Lunar Eclipse!" She shouted and created enough afterimages of herself for the detainees and teachers. She attacked the Disciplinary that was close to a ledge and managed to keep her there as she dodged each attack and countered. "Lovebug, figure out your lucky charm while kitten and I fend them off," she called and saw her younger partners nod in response.
Ladybug began to look around for clues, she soon saw Chat Noir and Loup D'argent being coloured with her ladybug vision as well as the ledge behind Disciplinary. "I know what to do!" She exclaimed and focused on putting her plan into action. "Loup! Chat! I need a boost and Chat get ready to use cataclysm on my call," she called and pointed towards the ledge, "Understood," Loup D'argent said cupping her hand.
"As you wish Milady," Chat said cupping his hands next to Loup's. "On the count of three," Ladybug called as she took a few paces back, "One," Chat said as she got ready to run. "Two," Loup D'argent called as she approached, "Three!" Ladybug exclaimed as she jumped into their palms, and they launched her to the ledge where she landed smoothly.
She quickly swung the magnetic fishing pole above the original Disciplinary who was still distracted by the afterimages. The magnet was strong enough to grip the keychain and pen, "Chat Noir!" She called out. "Cataclysm!" He shouted, she threw the item his way, and he managed to catch it with his cataclysm. The keychain was reduced to dust and Loup D'argent released her after images.
Ladybug threw her magnetic fishing rod in the air, "Miraculous Ladybug!" She exclaimed, causing Disciplinary as well as their weapons to return to their original states and the Akuma to fly out. "No more evil doing for you little Akuma. Time to de-evilise!" Ladybug calls out as she unlocks her yo-yo and extends it. She flings it at the Akuma catching it, "Gotcha!" She said and then presses her yo-yo.
"Bye-bye little butterfly," she says to the purified butterfly then turned to Chat Noir and Loup D'argent. "Pound it!" She and Chat Noir said as they fist-bumped, looking at Loup D'argent. She smiled and joined in the fist bump, "Been great working with y'all kids," he said with a grin.
"…but you two need to get going. Your miraculous are beginning to beep. I'll settle and bring the students and teachers back in," she added. The heroes nodded their thanks, "Been a pleasure working with you. Bug out!" Ladybug called and swung away on her yo-yo. "Yeah, it's been clawsome!" Chat Noir called with a salute as he vaulted away as Loup D'argent got to work before she opened the doors.
Loup D'argent's POV
"Please allow me to escort you to class. You need to be seated and collect yourself before any more stress comes to you," I said as I came to Ms Simonè. "Thank you, dear," she said as we walked to the class, I helped her sit down and looked at her. "You're an amazing teacher as you are madam. Please take care of yourself, I need to ensure everyone is all right and settle them back in," I said to her, and she smiled brightly up at me.
"Thank you so much, Loup D'argent, was it?" she asked, I nodded, and she pulled me into a hug. She released me to continue my work, "Wolf Pack!" I called when I was out of her range, creating a solid clone of myself. I hid my real self in a secluded area allowing me to join the rest of the students easily and undetected. After all, a new girl arrives at school and then a mysterious new hero appears. That's also pretty obvious and suspicious, so this is the best decision.
My clone opened the school doors, "Good day all, I'm Loup D'argent. Ladybug and Chat Noir had to return since they got here before me, but I told them I would ensure you all are safe and settled back into the school day," my clone explained.
It gestured for the teachers and students to enter in a calm manner. "Thank you Loup D'argent," the principal, Mr Damocles, said. "My pleasure monsieur," my clone replied and bobbed a small curtsey, earning a kind smile for my mannerism. Alya suddenly ran up to my clone, "You were amazing miss Loup D'argent. I was able to catch most of the fight on camera and would be honoured if you would give me an interview. As an introduction to you on the LadyBlog," she requested.
I smiled, I thought that this would be a great help to her blog and a way to ensure there is no suspicion of me being Loup D'argent, so I decided to accept. "I would be honoured, just give me a time and place. I'll do my best to be there unless I run late, it's a bad habit of mine," my clone says with a light-hearted laugh. "Thank you so very much," Alya said, "Would around half four today be okay?" She asked and gave me her address. My clone nodded, "I will see you then," it replied and gestured for her to join her friends.
I decided that now would be a good time for my clone to bid them farewell. "I'm glad you are all safe and seem to be settling in. My work here is done," My clone stated, gaining the attention of everyone as she swung away, as soon as she landed behind a building, I dropped the transformation. "Gin, dawn arises!" I called softly changing back into my civilian form and giving Gin a biscuit, which I had made earlier, before slipping into the crowd.
Luka's POV
I lost Raira and the others during the excitement, that girl is a pretty brave character, I hope she didn't rush back in to try and help or something, I shook my head. Soon after the action and the school had settled down to normal, I manage to find Raira strolling over as if nothing happened. I gave her a quizzical look and she just shrugged as she came by.
"What?" She asked, "Uh, did you forget about the whole attack that happened and us keeping Disciplinary distracted while the others escaped? Where did you even disappear to, you were right next to me then you were gone," I asked, and she shook her head. "Of course, I did not forget, but all is well so we can just move on," she stated with another shrug then looked at me with an apologetic smile.
"I'm sorry for making you worry Luka, I got separated from you because of the crowd. I couldn't find any of you," she said, "Well, then next time I'll have to hold your hand, so you don't get lost," I stated without really thinking. I've dug a grave for myself... Why did I even say that? I mean I was just really worried about her since she's my true friend currently, right? This is quite confusing, why am I feeling this way?
While I questioned myself, she brought me back to reality, "I really made you worry huh, Luka?" she asked while playing with her hair, I simply nodded. She hugged me and out of nowhere came this sweet scent, it smelt like jasmine and lilacs. "I promise to try and not make you worry too much... try being the operative word since I can be a handful as you may have noticed," she said as she pulled back from our hug.
Why do I crave that hug? I was confused, but just shook it off as I processed her reply. "Yeah, I've definitely noticed... You're one heck of a woman Raira. I've never seen anyone stand up and protect the way you have... You're fearless," I stated honestly and noticed a very slight tint of pink on her cheeks.
"Thanks, Luka, I do have my fears tho which you'd learn in time. You were pretty amazing yourself by the way, watching you today has made me see how brave and true you really are Luka. I'm glad you are my first friend here and I look forward to becoming closer," she smiled radiantly. It was now my turn to blush a bit... Wait… becoming closer? Is it just in friendship or maybe... No, I don't see her as more than a friend. I ran my hand through my hair in an attempt to cool down my thoughts and refocus on Raira.
"Thank you Raira, you're a true friend," I smiled back at her and pulled her into a hug, it was now my turn to catch her by surprise, but she hugged me back almost immediately. I quietly breathed in her scent, experiencing it once more... Finding her melody is quite challenging, but that makes it worth so much more.
"Though, I have to admit that you were pretty awesome Luka. I think we'd make a great team if we were superheroes like Ladybug and Chat Noir," she stated a short while later and nudged me with her shoulder, making me smile back at her. "Yeah, I think so too," I agree, she places her finger on her lip like she was thinking. "Hmm, what would your superhero name be?" She asked looking up at me with her lilac eyes, I hadn't really thought about it before, so I took some time to think.
"Two come to mind, Auxilio Aliis and Viperion," I reply as I remembered coming across the name once, "Why?" She questioned. "I read somewhere that the name Viperion stands for creativity, generosity, idealism, intuition, romance, tolerance, and wisdom. I guess it's because the name is a combination of viper and Hyperion. In Greek mythology, Hyperion is a titan whose children are the sun, moon and dawn, I am leaving out the weird Greek stuff tho," I answered.
Raira watched me in surprise as I spoke, "And here I thought you were just musically obsessed," she stated before a smirk grew on her face. "Also, I never pegged you for the romantic type, Luka," she playfully tapped my shoulder, and I rolled my eyes. "You did just meet me today Raira..." I smirked back, "There's a lot you don't know about me yet," I added with a wink that seemed to catch her by surprise.
(A/N: credit to this website for the information – name-stands-for/viperion)
"It also said that helping others is something that brings a sense of fulfilment into life. This relates to the other name I chose Auxilio Aliis which is Latin for 'Help others' and I believe that is what being a superhero is all about. What about your name Raira?" I asked, she nodded at my answer and rubbed the back of her neck. "Well, mine doesn't have that much thought placed into it..." she started and for once she seemed nervous, "Hey I'm sure it will be cool," I assured her placing a hand on her shoulder.
Did she just blush a bit again? I wondered as I thought I saw a tint of pink dusting her fair skin. "Well, I thought of the name Kibō no Hikari, it is Japanese for Light of hope, 'Hikari' means light and 'Kibō' means hope. That's what I think a hero should be... A shining light giving hope," she stated and looked at me, "I think it's awesome," I said giving her an honest smile.
Third Person POV
"Thank you, Luka," Rairakku said as the two spotted their sisters with their friends and decided to join them. "My little Bluebell are you alright?" the older bluenette asked, "I'm fine onee-san thanks to you and Luka," the younger answered with a smile as Rairakku hugged her then draped herself on the shy girl. "I'd do anything to keep you safe my sweet imōto," she said to Marinette and placed a kiss on her head, "Awww, you two are so cute!" Rose exclaimed as Marinette blushed, "Onee-chan, not in front of my friends!" she whined and covered her face.
Rairakku laughed with the rest of the group at her cute imōto's reaction, she looked up at Luka who had been laughing with the others. She wondered what went through his mind, she thought all that was there was music, but she knew that there is so much more she has yet to learn. The thing she worried about was trusting him with too much, she did promise her parents she would try to be more open and trusting… but was he someone she could trust, deep down she knew the answer immediately.
However, it was an answer she did not know how to accept, building walls was natural to her, but taking them down is another story. He soon felt her eyes on him and met her gaze, she seemed to be struggling with something. It's as if she was holding something back and hiding, but we have only met today so he knew she won't just open and tell him right away. He just had to be the best friend he could and give her time.
"Hey what's going on with them?" Adrien quietly asked his friends. "I'm not sure, doesn't look good though," Nino said, Alya rolled her eyes. "I don't know Nino, I mean there could be some feelings there, but those looks are very confusing like there may be a fight or something along those lines. All I can say for sure are those stares are very strong," she stated, and the boys nodded in agreement.
"So, I hear our break is extended since we missed out on most of our break," Rairakku said with a smile and glanced at the three who were discussing the situation. "Hope you guys don't mind us crashing your friend group. My straightforward attitude has only afforded me this guy," she said gesturing to Luka with a playful smirk, "Ow, my heart Raira," he said with a smirk as he placed his hand over his chest.
She rolled her eyes, "Like you actually have one," she playfully quipped. "Like you showed you had one back in class, your icy highness," he retorted keeping up their banter. "Onee-chan... What are you two talking about?" Marinette asked, the two older students looked at each other and shared a laugh. "Gather around everyone, it's story time," Rairakku told the younger students as she hopped on the table and Luka stood next to her to aid in the storytelling. Rairakku began the recount of all that took place before the break with Luka taking over at some points.
Meanwhile, in the teacher's staff room, Athalya Simonè and Caline Bustier were speaking about what happened during the break with Caline making sure her best friend was doing better now. They were soon joined by the drama teacher, Madam Florence Gratuite, who felt guilty about the way the other teachers treated Athalya, so she had come to apologise and welcome her properly since she had missed her induction.
"I hear you only recently returned; I don't mean to pry madam Gratuite, but I was just wondering what the reason of your leave was?" Athalya asked, "Oh, I don't mind sharing. I was on leave for a short while because I just got married and we just returned from our honeymoon in Thailand. So, it would be madame Gratuite, but you both can call me Florence. You could even call me Flo if you want," Florence explained.
"Oh, congratulations Flo," Caline said with a smile and offered her a hug that Florence accepted, "Yes, congratulations Flo. Thailand must have been wonderful," Athalya said. "Oh, it was, in fact it inspired me so much that I thought of using some ideas for my drama lessons. I was thinking of having a sort of cultural theme for this term," she replied her features showing her fond appreciation of the memories.
"That's a wonderful idea, hey Lya maybe you both could work on something I mean you did just receive a foreign student," Caline suggested, "Ah yes, Rairakku was it?" Florence asked. Athalya nodded, "Yes, Rairakku Hayashi, she transferred from Japan," she answered. "I do think you are on to something amazing. It would be perfect for our content-based instruction project. We should also speak to the History teacher to see where she is in content and to explain the cultural content as the project," Athalya excitedly added.
"Ah that sounds perfect Athalya, but I believe the History teacher will only be inducted tomorrow or latest Friday," Florence stated, "But, we thought madame Lemaire was the History teacher," Athalya admitted. Florence laughed, "Don't feel bad sweethearts, she always does that when she is in as a substitute. How was my sub? Madam Beaulieu I think," Florence asked, the two younger teachers shared a smile.
"She was wonderful and very sweet," Caline beamed, "The children adored her and don't worry they were waiting for you to come back. Also, we are going out for tea after school with her if you would like to join us," Athalya added. Florence nodded in approval, "That would be wonderful, but I don't want to intrude are you sure it's okay for me to join?" she asked.
Athalya and Caline nodded, "We would be delighted," Caline said. "Thank you, ladies, it's good when we have good subs, so I'd like to thank her for helping me out. Madame Lemaire is very set so I believe monsieur Chevalier will have a difficult time adjusting so we best help him when he does. So, our project should be perfect to help him adjust," Florence explained. "I know as much as anyone how difficult it is to adjust here," Athalya said, "Today would have been much worse if I didn't have you two," she added with a smile and received a hug from the teachers.
"What happened to the previous history teacher Flo?" Caline asked, "He retired, in fact, if you both had studied here or in the area in your younger years you may know him, monsieur Aubert," Florence answered stunning both young ladies. "He was Lya's inspiration to be a teacher, she used to talk about him all the time when we were preparing lessons in college. It's why she majored in History and English," Caline explained.
"That's brilliant, but why didn't you get the history position?" Florence asked, "With all the changes, they said that English was the most important subject to have a permanent teacher fill," Athalya explained. "Ah, yes those two were the best of friends so them leaving at the same time makes sense," Florence said, "It's okay, Lya, teaches my class History so she is not completely out of her passionate subject," Caline stated.
"That's great. Athalya, I'd like to give you some advice," Florence stated, she nodded for Florence to go on. "Monsieur Non-Raffiné is someone you will learn not to pay much attention to. He may be older, but it doesn't make him wiser. You are an amazing teacher, and he was wrong to suggest otherwise. Also, I can tell you are a passionate and intelligent teacher just by our conversation. When you brought up content-based instruction I knew you could go on, which I ask that you do because we should at least have an idea to share with the children to let them know how their assessment this term is going to be," Florence shared.
"Thank you, Flo, that is really appreciated. As for the project…" Athalya started, and they began a long discussion about their plans for the content-based instruction project. With their theme of culture already chosen, they finally settled on their plan of action.
In Athalya's class, they would create another dialogue in which each individual in the pair represents a different culture and orally present their piece. With Florence's lesson, the pairs will develop a French copy of their dialogue and act it out. Both will be due in a month's time, two weeks on researching their chosen culture and two weeks developing their dialogues.
"When monsieur Chevalier begins tomorrow, we can discuss it further with him, but I was thinking of suggesting something along the lines of a research assignment on a culture of their choice. They could do it in groups, pairs or individually, if they do it in groups, they can be given a culture and then each member will focus on a certain aspect of the culture. In pairs and individually, they won't be able to cover all the aspects of culture, it would take more time but that would be an impressive expectation," Athalya explained as her friends simply stared at her.
"Wow, you have really thought this through," Flo stated, "She kinda overthinks a lot," Caline said with a shrug of her shoulders. "I can't help it and you know it, Cal, I mean there are just so many ideas that I get carried away," Athalya defended herself. "I know Lya, but this afternoon when we go out… I forbid your overthinking, and will you back me up with this Flo?" Caline looked to Florence who nodded in reply.
"Okay, okay, I promise," Athalya said with a laugh as the siren sounded, "I'll explain my part of the project to the learners since I see them now," Florence stated, "Sounds like a plan," Athalya replied. "Speaking of plans, don't forget we are heading to meet up with Fleur later… oh that's Beaulieu's first name, Flo," Caline reminded them before turning to Florence to explain before they all said their goodbyes.
