The Peace Talks mentioned in this chapter took place on April 27th 2018. The information mentioned in the chapter was verified by numerous news outlets.
The peace talks between the two Koreas were about to begin, as Keung Si-U, set up the camera equipment. It would not be long before President Moon Jae-in and Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un met at the border, where the North Korean leader would step over the line and enter South Korea.
Filming this broadcast was a thrilling sensation. Every pomp and honorable action, would be watched closely, to ensure the success of the talks. The secret UN agent would be keeping a critical eyes and ears on the two leaders, ready to step in if something went wrong. Hopefully, without getting killed in the process.
Finally, it was time for the summit to begin. Keung Si-U focused the camera in closely, as the two men shared a handshake and Supreme Leader Kim, stepped over the concrete line as a welcomed guest. President Moon also crossed the line into North Korea, to demonstrate the friendship between the two, before heading to the Peace Hall in the South Korea part of the village.
The camera held steady as the two men walked down a large red carpet with the pomp and pageantry of a South Korean honor guard, but the soldiers wore 19th-century imperial costumes, recalling a time before the peninsula was divided by ideology and war. Supreme Leader Kim appeared to be impressed and commented something positive to President Moon.
The camera crew continued to film the Supreme Leader Kim and President Moon, as they talked with one another, and rode in a bodyguard escorted limo from North Korea, to lunch. As the day progressed, the delegations got smaller and smaller, so when the talks started, the delegation was made of six individuals, three from South Korea and three from North Korea, including Supreme Leader Kim's sister.
It was highly unusual for such intimate discussions to be aired on TV, instead of being closed off to the public, but Supreme Leader Kim wanted to show his dedication to unifying Korea under one flag, just as the two countries had been at the Winter Olympics. President Moon also thought this live broadcast to the world would show how serious the countries were about peace.
Keung Si-U watched the events through "his" camera noting in "his" mind signs that indicated a reunification might be possible. The outfits the two leaders were in spoke volumes. For Mr. Moon, a dark business suit was paired with a light blue tie that echoed the hue used in the Korean Unification Flag.
Mr. Kim wore an austere black Mao-style suit, a message to his citizens that despite being in enemy territory he was still committed to the ideals — and dress — of his grandfather, Kim Il-sung, North Korea's founder, who ordered the 1950 invasion of the South that started the Korean War.
The furniture in the room also echoed the reason for these peace talks. The table and chairs inside the meeting room were designed with a pattern evoking two bridges coming together, foreshadowing the bridge on which the two men would got to later for a private chat.
The entire camera crew held their breaths as the two men exchanged jokes, something among a rarity between the two opposing leaders. Even when complimenting each other, the media couldn't believe the ease between them. The normal tensions between leaders, was not completely gone, it was just less noticeable than before.
For Keung Su-U, it was refreshing to see Supreme Leader Kim, talking openly and honestly, even admitting his countrymen had talked about the efficiency of South Korea's train system during the Olympics. He declared, "I came here to put an end to the history of confrontation." President Moon appeared hopeful they could accomplish this.
Unfortunately, as the French Representative predicted, the two parties couldn't come to an agreement about denuclearization or withdrawing troops from the DMZ. North Korea wanted to continue developing nuclear weapons. Mr. Moon stated his offer to help fix the roadways and train tracks wouldn't happen until this matter was resolved.
It did seem the two countries could agree on improving the relationship between the North and South. Mr. Kim and Mr. Moon also agreed to improve inter-Korean relations by opening a liaison office in the North Korean border town of Kaesong and arranging a reunion later in the year for families separated by the war.
That was really encouraging to hear, knowing how important family is to the Korean culture. The two Korean leaders also agreed to further talks and President Moon was invited to visit the North Korea capital Pyongyang in the fall.
Later in the afternoon, Keung Si-U relaxed a little as "he" watched the two leaders, crossed a blue bridge and have a private talk, outside of hearing range. Their body language didn't appear hostile at all.
One of the last ceremonies before the meeting end included planting a tree with soil from both sides of Korea. It symbolized the two countries becoming one and growing stronger together. The day ended with a farewell ceremony outdoors set to a mix of modern K-pop and traditional Korean folk music. Both Mr. Moon and Mr. Kim, held hands as they stood looking on.
As the North Korean delegation left, the last minute cameraman let out a sigh of relief. Everything had gone smoothly. It was sad that a treaty hadn't been made up today, but hopefully future talks would lead to one.
It was very late and the camera crew wouldn't be returning to Seoul until tomorrow, so the cameraman head to the bunkers to sleep for the night. "He" had just reached the building, when the palm of "his" hand started burn intensely.
Looking at "his" left palm, the Order of the Guardians' mark had reappeared. The burning sensation intensified as the mark started to glow black, white, and blue. An image of the origami magpie flashed in front of the person's eyes. The animal was saying something, but couldn't be heard.
Stumbling backwards, the cameraman noticed the glow increased when "his" hand pointed to the border. There must be something important that way "he" thought as he walked towards the border. The cameraman walked towards the border keeping to the shadows. The military personal were still on active duty. Their patrols around the blue bunkers had intensified after the talks. They were being diligent in case either side thought about a surprise attack.
As the undercover agent moved towards the concrete boarder line, "he" was surprised that there was no one near the border. That didn't make any sense, considering there was at least three guards on each side at all times. Something must be going on. Either this was a massive coincidence, or something miraculous, was taking place.
From the JSA building, where the 1953 Armistice Agreement had been signed, a shadow appeared. A figure was carefully looking around, checking everywhere for the military. Hurriedly, the person ran to the border. As they got closer, the agent realized the person was carrying a battered old box.
Keung Si-U hurried to the border. A thin strip of moonlight revealed the figure holding the box, was one of the members of her Peace Keeping team in North Korea. A young woman named, Gim Bora, who was a minor secretary for the North Korean military in the DMZ.
The woman's eyes darted around and her skin was paling. She was taking a huge risk by being there, especially since she could be raped, beaten, and thrown in a prison camp, if anyone found out about this. Her body language indicated high levels of anxiety, especially when she saw the undercover agent making "his" way towards her.
Keung Si-U stepped to the edge of the border and repeated a coded poem, to confirm, "he" was a contact of the Peace Keeping teams in the south part of the peninsula.
Gim Bora looked relieved. "I'm glad you're here. I haven't much time, but I believe this item here would be safer with our superior than it is in military lock down," she explained as she passed the box across the border.
Keung Si-U opened the box slightly and saw that it contained an ayam, a special winter cap, worn by woman during the Joseon period. The ayam consisted of the upper part known as a mobu, (a crown), and deurim shaped like big ribbon. The upper part of the mobu was quilted, the vertical line of the front shorter than the back's. On the bottom edge, the front part was curved in, unlike the back.
In addition, the vertical lines of the front and back are a little curvy, so that, when wearing an ayam, it fits well to one's head. Faded blue silk had been used upper quilted part of the outer fabric, while scraps of black fur was used for the rest of the mobu. The fabric for the inner part was white and dirty.
The tassel, attached to the upper center of both front and back, was blue and the white and black strings connected on both sides and laid flat. There was a jewel piece under the tassle, made of sardonyx gems, but some of them were missing. The shape resembled some kind of bird.
The burning sensation was nearing to a point where the pain couldn't be ignored. The glowing would soon become noticeable to others. "Where did you get this and why is it so significant?"
"This was found recently in the DMZ ground when they were making repairs to the electric fence. North Korea took possession of it and thought it might have historical significance. I was asked to catalog it and make sure it was ready for shipping."
"But you didn't. Why?"
Gim Bora expounded that when she touched the item to put it in the box, she had a vision. She saw a magpie, the image of a painting of two people dressed like one, then a picture of her secret superior. "It was so vivid and profound, I knew there was something mystical about the item. It was meant for my superior to have. I replaced this ayam with a fake. Can you get it to her?"
Keung Si-U assured Gim Bora this would get to their superior speedily. Relieved, the North Korean woman, thanked the "man" before hurrying back to the JSA building. The cameraman hurried back to the bunker and hid the box in the camera bag.
The item would have to be more closely looked at when "he" reached Seoul. One thing was certain, that the burning and glowing had stopped once the item was in "his" possession. The ayam was related to the Miraculouses, somehow.
While that was going on Korea, thanks to the time difference, it was still the day before in Paris. Adrien had to skip the final rehearsal before the ball, to do a photo shoot. He was a bit upset, because his father had allowed him to attend the school in place of his Chinese lessons for a time, so he could be "properly" introduced into society.
"Yes, yes, you look magnificent today Adrien. Now give me another huge smile!" Vincent, the photographer, instructed the young model. Vincent was one of the best in the business, his flexible body enabling him to get a ton more angle shots than most other photographers. Vincent's motivational speeches, were unusual to say the least. He was always talking about spaghetti or setting up strange stories, to get a range of reactions. Today, he was trying to motivate Adrien, by making him hold a lollipop.
"Come on, give me that sweet smile. You are young and adorable! The lollipop is a yummy treat for a teen boy to eat!" The shutter clicked quickly as the photographer managed to shoot from high above, to the side, then upside down. "Yes, yes! You are perfect Adrien!"
Passing by the photo shoot was a young woman with blond hair with her biracial baby boy August. The child saw the lollipop and immediately started shouting, "lolli lollipop! Lollipop!"
The mother bent down, "No August, no lollipop. You're too little." August started crying and throwing a temper tantrum.
"Lollipop, lolli lollipop! Wha!" Tears started rolling down his face. His mother calmly told him to stop crying and pushed the stroller away.
The photo shoot was nearly done, when the screaming started. Vincent and Adrien turned and saw the little baby was now a Gigiantean. He was wearing a purple onesie with a lime green bib with a pacifier on and a mask of the same color. On his right wrist, was a huge bracelet, the most likely location of the baby's akuma.
The Gorilla was running to protect the boy when he was picked up, sucked on by Gigiantitan, before being thrown a half a mile away, for tasting disgusting. "Lollipop! Lollipop!"
Adrien jumped into some bushes as Plagg flew out of the boy's jacket. "Hawkmoth must have lost his mind or he watched, "Honey, I Blew Up the Kid," too many times as a child."
"Then, we'll just have to hope, we can shrink him down to size, without using electromagnetism. Claws Out!" Chat Noir jumped out of the bush and ran towards the giant baby. Without looking at the time, he knew he would be on his own for up to twenty to thirty minutes because of the ball rehearsal. Marinette would have to come up with a great excuse to leave.
"Hi there baby! Want to play tag?"
Gigiantitan, who had been trying to eat the statues that lined the Gardens of the Trocadero, looked for the source of the voice. A huge smile lit up on his face. "Kitty!" Gigiantitan walked wobbly towards the superhero.
Chat Noir dodged the kid's giant feet, diving between the kid's legs. "Over here kid! Come and get me!" he laughed as he extended his weapon, lifting him up in the air and onto the roof.
Gigiantitan shouted, "Bad kitty!" no doubt repeating what Hawkmoth told him. The boy turned and tried to grab Chat Noir, who kept stepping out of reach. Frustrated that he couldn't get the kitty, he stomped his feet. "I wanna kitty! I wanna kitty!"
The stomping sent quakes through the ground and caused the superhero to lose his balance and nearly roll off the rooftop. "I guess this is what they mean when the terrible two tones!"
Suddenly, he was grabbed by the akumatized baby. The baby's grip was tight and he couldn't break free. He was heading for the baby's mouth. "I'm not an animal cracker! Ah!"
Something sparkly shot into the air and whirled around, catching Gigiantitan's attention. "Pwetty!" He dropped the superhero and reached for the shiny object only for said object to tie his hands together.
"Naughty little boy! We don't try to eat people," Ladybug scolded, as she landed on the boy's wrists. "Now, just hold still and I'll turn you back to normal." She was reaching for the bracelet when the baby screamed, "Lollipop! Lollipop!"
He pulled his hands apart until the yo-yo string unwound sending Ladybug flying through the air and into the Seine. "Lollipop, lolli!" The boy plopped on his butt and started throwing another fit. "Wanna lollipop, lollipop!" His pounding fists sent cars up and down in the air.
One of those cars happened to be the sweet truck. Smelling the candy the boy let out a joyful shout. He picked up the truck, clapping his giant hands, and tried to get the lollipops. Only his fingers were too big and crushed all the candy.
"Lollipop? No lollie? Whaaaaaaa Whaaaaaaaaaaa! Wanna lollipop. Lollie, lollie!"
Chat Noir, was jumping all around diving in and out of cars, trying not to be crushed. Hawkmoth no doubt was struggling to get the baby to attack him and Ladybug, spotting the mask flashing repeatedly on the giant's face. The super villain had to be having a worse temper tantrum then his victim.
The sound of, dripping water and the smell of bad fish, told Chat Noir his partner had finally managed to get out of the river. He turned his head and grinned at his sopping wet girlfriend. "How are the fishing biting My Lady?"
Ladybug glared at her partner as if she wanted to kill him. "Don't ask that again!" she hissed at him. Gulping the cat boy nodded and asked if she had a plan.
"I had a complicated one in my head as I raced here, but now I'm ready for the simple approach. Lucky Charm!" Red and black spotted gift wrap fell into her hands. "Of course, it had be another unusual item." She peered around and saw what she was supposed to do. "The kid wants a lollipop? Then we'll give him one."
In Hawkmoth's lair he was screaming at the baby to get up. "I'll buy you a million lollipops if you get up and find the bad kitty and ladybug for me! Come on Gigiantitan, don't you want your sweet treat? Why is it so hard to control a baby? Adrien certainly wasn't this much trouble when he was little," Hawkmoth seethed to himself. Just then he felt a huge wave of happiness come over him.
"Happiness? Why would there be happiness? No!" Hawkmoth tried to take control, but it was useless. Ladybug had hidden in the gift wrap the heroes had folded around the lamppost, making it look like a lollipop. All it took was a quick click, disintegration, and one cleanse later, everything was back to normal.
"You think that was a tantrum Ladybug and Chat Noir? Wait until you feel my wraith on you!"
Finally, it was the night of the ball. Ms. Bustier's students, who initially signed up to prove something to Chloe, were actually very excited for the night. The Parisian School for Charming Young Ladies and Gentlemen, had turned out to be a wonderful experience. True to their word, the lessons they had taken had helped the students strive towards goals they thought before were impossible.
Outside the school, the media was interviewing the donors invited to the event, many who were the heads of local government departments and companies. Nadja Chamack, was currently interviewing, Captain Tremaine, the same man who had worked with Peace Keeper, during her first visit to Paris.
"Captain Tremaine, the viewers want to know, why the National Police are here tonight to donate funds. Many believe that charm schools are a thing of the past. Care to comment?" the reporter asked as she held the microphone out. She remembered this time to give someone their personal space.
Captain Tremaine cleared his throat. "While many believe charm schools are a thing of the past, I, myself, feel they serve a purpose for teaching young people how to lead a productive life. They also serve as a place young people can go instead of being on the streets.
While the crime rate in Paris is moderate, it has increased over the last three years. Theft and vandalism crimes are on the rise and so is sexual harassment in the work force. If we can teach the next generation to not be violent, I believe the crime rate will go down."
"Thank you for your honesty Captain Tremaine. I hope you have a good time tonight and your donation is generous." Captain Tremaine nodded and headed down to the entrance of the building.
Inside the building, several students and their families mingled with the guest donors. The adults drank absinthe and the kids' cider or grape juice. Servers walked around with samples of mini tarte flambés and free form onion tarts to tide them over until dinner.
At the entrance, the bailiwick announced in a clear voice each arrival. Chloe and her father had already entered the building. Her father was busy meeting people and talking to them about business, under the watchful eye of the true mayor of Paris, Ms. Anne Hidalgo.
Chloe, was showing off her dress and bragging how it was a one of kind piece, her father had commissioned for her. The dress she had her eyes on, turned out to clash with her skin. It was also not as expensive as it looked. Her new gown had been super expensive and looked fantastic on her.
It was a chartreuse ball gown with a sweet heart neckline with angel sleeves, along with a narrow bodice to show off her figure. The skirt was full with a transparent black overskirt. She wore elbow length white gloves along with a gold necklace and coronet, with tiny gold studs. Her makeup was tastefully done. She did look pretty, but her attitude was still sour.
"The dress is made from the softest silk and of course the whole gown was hand-stitched. Only the finest for the Princess of Paris!" Chloe bragged. She looked at the gowns some of her classmates wore and laughed. "You're ball gowns are so generic. Plus, who wears a printed ball gown? You're sticking out like a sore thumb. That peach really looks ugly on your skin. That suit doesn't hide anything does it?"
The two girls, daughters of two old French families, burst into tears. They ran towards the bathrooms with their dates, who were very angry, trying to catch up with them. Many people saw the commotion and wondered what happened.
When will people stop getting upset when presented with the truth? Chloe mused to herself. If you want to stay on top in high society, it's important to show others who was the best of the best. Every member of society knows that.
"Announcing the arrival of Monsieur Adrien Agreste and Mademoiselle Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Dupain Cheng, Madam Sancoeur and Mr. Gorilla."
Adrien walked in wearing a navy blue suit with white buttons, linings, and tie. His jacket was doubled breasted and the cuffs and his pants had been tailored perfectly.
Next to him, Marinette looked beautiful. She had nude makeup on and had her hair up in a bun. Her dress was a dark red with an empire styled waist and skirt. The neckline was jeweled with black trim with capped sleeves. She had on a simple ruby pendent.
The young couple were laughing about a private joke. Behind them, Marinette's parents smiled lovingly at their daughter. Nathalie wore a simple black dress and the Gorilla, had exchanged his bodyguard suit for a tuxedo. Both of them kept their eyes sharply on the young couple, per Mr. Agreste's orders.
Adrien was upset that his father chose to have a teleconference with one of his suppliers in Japan tonight. He had really hoped his father would come with him. His only word on the subject was he already knew how perfect his son was.
Seeing her boyfriend's downcast expression, Marinette used her finger to lift his chin up. "I know you're sad you father didn't come, but it must be very painful for him to attend events meant parents and children, without your mother."
"My mom was always the center of attention at parties like this. Come on, let's mingle."
The couple went over and started talking with their friends. Everyone from their group looked fantastic and seemed to be enjoying themselves. Thanks to Adrien, all the boys had chosen the perfect suit that fit their personality and the event. None of them were uncomfortable and they could move with ease.
Nino had on a beret because he felt naked without a hat. It had taken a lot of combing for Kim's hair to lie flat instead of stick out all over the place. Ivan had sprayed on some cologne Adrien had given to him.
The girls' dresses were very pretty. Alya had found a bronze colored dress with a light black overlay over the skirt. The neckline was bateau with puffed sleeves. She had straightened her hair out for the event and for once didn't have her phone with her.
Alix had been able to find a dress that matched her hair perfectly with bell sleeves and a Bardot neckline. The skirt was tiered with white lace that matched her dance shoes.
Mylene's dress was leaf green with a shorter skirt due to her smaller stature and made her appear slimmer. The neckline was a simple scoop with petal sleeves. She also wore a decorative flower pin.
They talked for a few minutes about their dresses and about the boys' suits before whispering about what they wanted to happen during the dancing. Batting their eyelashes at their partners, the girls allowed themselves to be escorted away to talk with the different donors, in hopes they could persuade them for very generous donations.
Adrien was about to lead Marinette away when he heard a frustrated humph. It reminded him of all the times he suppressed his annoyance and sadness about a situation. He walked towards the sound, politely excusing himself through the throng of servers until he reached the wall. "Judekael?" Adrien said. The boy looked up from where he was leaning against the wall. He looked good in his black suit and white tie. Seeing Adrien, he straightened up, showing he took the school's teachings seriously.
"Greetings Mr. Agreste. I hope you are having a fine evening."
"I will once you start using my name. What are you doing over here by yourself? The headmistress distinctly told us to stay with our partners. Where's Chloe?"
The scholarship student rolled his brown eyes and let out a sigh of frustration. "I have no idea Adrien. We didn't arrive together since she came here with her father. I waited for her by the entrance, but she wasn't there, so I came inside. I've been searching for her everywhere, but all I've run into are her victims."
"Victims?"
"Why are you confused? Surely as her oldest friend, you have realized she has sharp tongue and doesn't show respect, or show kindness, to anyone she deems irrelevant?"
Adrien squirmed a little, unsure what to say to that. "Um, why don't I help you find her so you can enter the dining hall together? I just need to fetch Marinette first." Reluctantly the other boy followed him.
Eventually, they found Chloe, who was talking to Sabrina about something. Sabrina's partner, a boy from another school, stood nearby tapping his foot anxiously.
"Really Sabrina, you should have put in contacts instead of wearing those glasses to the ball. You are making me appear worse because of them."
"Sorry Chloe, but I don't own contacts."
"Then get some. Oh Adrikins! It's so wonderful to see you!" Chloe latched onto Adrien's arm and hugged him tightly. "You look so handsome. We'll look so great when we're dancing later."
"Maybe Chloe. I found your partner for the night," Adrien expressed her, as he waved Judekael over. He didn't notice Chloe frowning. "I know you haven't intentionally been avoiding him. I know it's crowded so you had to have a hard time finding him. Hope you two have fun tonight. Marinette and I are going to talk to the different hospital boards about donations."
The rest of the cocktail hour went smoothly. Many of the guests were delighted in how well-mannered the students were. The different partners described why they had joined the school for the ball or praised the teachers for being so patient with them. Some of the kids were actually considering enrolling for next year.
A dinner bell ran alerting everyone it was time for dinner. The school was very lucky to have such a huge dining hall to fit all the guests. First, the donor guests were escorted to the main table up front. Then the parents or guardians were guided to their tables closest to the main table.
Marinette's parents and Adrien's guardians were seated at a table together with a few other parents of the kids in their group. Everyone stood at attention as the students glided into the room with grace and poise.
Last to enter the room, in proper decorum, was Madam Isaura and Monsieur Jerome, both smiling and shaking hands with their guests. They floated into the host seats. Monsieur Jerome picked up his wine glass and gently tapped it with his fork.
"Welcome everyone. My sister and I, along with our wonderful staff, are very pleased you have come here tonight for our humble ball. I hope you're all having a good time tonight. This school has been in our family for generations and I hope it will continue for many more to come."
Madame Isaura raised her own glass to offer a toast. "Tonight, our hope is you will be generous with your charity. The true charity though, is helping prepare young ladies and gentlemen, for their future. We love all of them very much and thank them for letting us teach them."
"Now let us enjoy this wonderful meal. Bon appetit!"
In France, throughout the dinner, bread and butter would be on the table. It was a sign of hospitality. Being a formal meal, the water glasses were filled with bottled water. The bread was freshly baked and tasted wonderful. The butter enhanced the taste of it.
Marinette was telling Adrien the bread was almost as good as the one her father baked, when the first course arrived. It was smoked tuna with parsley and tomatoes, with a dusting of bread crumbs. They were also served cranberry juice.
The meal was eaten using a fish knife and fork. Etiquette for a fish meal was to gently hold the fish down and slice from head to tail with the knife before laying the fish out flat. Cut it into small neat pieces before daintily putting it in your mouth. To add more flavor you speared a piece of garnish with the fork along with the fish.
The main course was a huge roast beast with two different sauces, served with squash and broccoli. During the course people added some salt or pepper to bring out the taste of the food. Their glasses were refilled during this part of the meal as well. It was important to cleanse your pallet after every part of the meal, to have the full tasty food experience.
The salad course was a mix of different greens, such as lettuce and cabbage. The dressing was Green Goddess. The light food was served to help give them an easier time digesting their dinner. Mylene loved the salad dish and Ivan was quick to agree with her.
During the cheese course, which was Brie, the conversation turned light and happy. They were discussing upcoming events at their school or asked Judekael what activities he was involved at his school. Everyone contributed something to the conversation.
The desert course was sherbet. Alya and Nino debated the difference between sorbet and sherbet. Chloe, who declared the desert would make her gain weight, shoved it to Marinette, telling her that a few more pounds wouldn't make much of a difference on her oversized body.
"Chloe! Dinner etiquette clearly says you have to eat everything placed in front of you, which includes desert," Marinette firmly reminded her. She passed the desert back to the girl.
"Please, I'm not eating anything that can ruin my figure." Chloe reached out to push it back to Marinette, forgetting to move slowly and slightly angle her elbow, causing the desert to wobble on the table before splattering on her partner's suit. "Oops, my bad."
Judekael looked at the damage with a horrific expression on his face. "My suit! My mom worked overtime to help me pay for this!" The teenager tried to clean himself off quickly to avoid getting the suit badly stained. He got some of it off, but it was quickly melting. His new white tie was ruined.
"You should go and see if the staff can fix it before the staining becomes permanent," Marinette told him. She offered to go with him, but the boy declined, not wanting any help. He'd been humiliated enough for the night.
Everyone watched him storm out of the dining hall, trying not to cry. The other kids glared at Chloe. "Not cool Chloe. It took almost an hour and half to find Judekael a suit that could fit him and was affordable," Kim hissed.
"If it's ruined for good, he can't afford another one for future events," Nino pointed out harshly.
"How could you forget how to pass and move things around the table? We practiced this last week, as well as, yesterday afternoon," Ivan asked in bewilderment.
Chloe raised her eyebrow slightly and looked offended. "Why are you getting mad at me? It's Marinette's fault. I told her to eat it. If she did what she was told this wouldn't have happened."
"The desert was for you! We're supposed to be showing what we've learned to our parents and teachers. To thank them for all they've done," Alya stated as calmly as she could. Mylene and Alix chimed in pointing out since she'd been attending this school the longest, Chloe's manners should be impeccable.
Chloe scoffed at them. "My manners and behavior is perfect for someone of my status. The school should have assigned me someone worth of my status, instead of a low class child."
In the bathroom, Judekael splashed water on his face and tried to wipe his tears away. The teachers responsible for helping out with damaged clothing had to take the suit right away to hopefully get it cleaned. They had given him a plainer suit that was his size to put on. It was nice suit, but it wasn't his specially tailored suit.
How can this be happening? I worked so hard to be able to come to this school, to improve my chances in life. The scholarship was a gift from heaven. This ball was to show everyone, I Judekael Chevalier, was important!
"I put up with Chloe Bourgeois superiority complex. I never ever responded to her cruel words and I was nice to her. I tried my hardest to be a good partner and she doesn't care! She blew me off and ruined my suit, just to get a chance with a guy, who has a girlfriend!"
Judekael slammed his right hand into the mirror breaking it. His blood started to fall on the damaged tie in his hand. He was seething and wanted to put Chloe in her place. He never even noticed the akuma fly through the open window and into his tie.
"Mr. Etiquette, I am Hawkmoth. I sense your anger at being humiliated by someone who doesn't deserve her status in life. I can give you the power to put the charlatan in her true place.
All I need is for you to get me Ladybug and Chat Noir's Miraculous. Do we have a deal?"
"It would be my honor to serve you." The purple and black smoke covered him as he was akumatized. When the smoke cleared her was wearing a burgundy tuxedo with olive green gloves. A butterfly tattoo mask covered his now red eyes. Wrapped around his right arm was the tie, now much longer and crimson red.
Everyone had moved into the ballroom for the dancing portion of the night. The kids all lined up with their partners and got ready to open the ball with a waltz. Madam Isaura and Monsieur Jerome were about to instruct the orchestra to begin when they noticed Chloe's partner was missing. They signaled one of the teacher's to quickly solve the problem.
The daughter of the mayor was poised and ready to cut in with the boy of her dreams when she was tapped on the shoulder by Madame Eugenia and asked to come with her. Reluctantly, the pampered princess followed her.
Once they were in a secluded corner Madame Eugena cut loose. "Ms. Bourgeois, where is your partner?! We can't start the dance without all the students here."
"He's probably sulking somewhere about his silly suit getting covered with sherbet. Honestly, how is it my fault he didn't move when my desert spilled? It was Marinette's fault for refusing to eat it for me."
Before the teacher could give the girl a piece of her mind, the doors burst open and in strolled Mr. Etiquette. "A round of applause please. The guest of honor of this ball has arrived."
Snapping his wrist, the tie shot out and struck part of the crowd. The people touched suddenly found themselves clapping. "Very nice indeed. Oh, no, we don't run in the ballroom, we glide."
Several adults, including Captain Tremaine, had started to run to tackle him, but a flick of the tie and now they were literally gliding across the floor. He flicked his weapon out several times as he made his way towards Chloe. Any guest touched by the tie, were forced to follow the exact manners he gave them. At this point, the students were scattering and their families trying to get to them. Many brave people tried to get to the Akuma, only to fail in the attempt.
"Adrien, where are you? Adrien!" Nathalie called out trying to find her charge. The Gorilla was scanning the room looking for his charge when he saw the Akuma about to attack Nathalie. He rushed to save her from being touched.
"How romantic, a gentlemen coming to the aid of a beautiful woman. I suggest you two sit down so your chaperones can keep an eye on you!" His tie made a wide arch encompassing not only Nathalie and the Gorilla, but also the Dupain-Chengs, forcing them back into the dining hall.
After a few more steps he reached his prey. Chloe was scared and cowering a bit. "Whoever you are, please don't hurt me. My dad's the mayor, he can pay for anything you want!"
Mr. Etiquette spat on her face. "Typical spoiled brat! You think money can fix humiliation and a lack of respect? You think because your father is a political figure you don't have to follow the rules of conduct?" He slapped Chloe across the face and pushed her to the ground, her ball gown ripping. "You don't deserve your status. You are going to learn a lesson in how to treat people nicely by your own partner!"
Before he could use his tie, he heard the jingling of a bell and then he was knocked off his feet. While he was on his back, a female figure swung from the chandler and to the ground, picking up Chloe.
"Ladybug! I knew you come save me!" Ladybug stumbled a bit because of the impromptu hug. "You have to protect me from him!"
"Ladybug, give me your earrings now!" Mr. Etiquette demanded as he got to his feet. His weapon flicked out to grab the heroine only for him to be pulled back thanks to Chat Noir using his belt tail to create a catch pole.
"Get Chloe out of here, My Lady. I'll keep him under control for now!"
Ladybug raced out of the room and ducked into a nearby classroom. She quickly deposited Chloe in a seat. "Stay here and don't make any noise." Without waiting for a reply she exited the room and headed back to help her partner.
Upon entering the ballroom, she ducked as Chat Noir flew over her head, pushed off the wall, before landing on his feet next to her. She gave him a smile, "Didn't anyone tell you it's rude to put your feet on the wall?"
"I think this is an exception My Lady." The partners jumped apart as Mr. Etiquette flicked his tie at them, while ordering them to pass to him their Miraculous.
"It's improper for you to come to a party and not give the host a gift," the akumatized teen sang. He danced around, avoiding Ladybug's yo-yo. "No playing with toys when guests are around."
His tie wrapped around the yo-yo, and it wound itself back up. Ladybug tried to use it, but it refused to comply with her. Chat Noir scrambled to retrieve his baton only for it to be confiscated because it might, "poke someone's eye out."
"Without their weapons they can't stop you Mr. Etiquette. Retrieve their Miraculous!"
"With pleasure Hawkmoth. I would like to have my gifts delivered to me now."
The heroes dodged the attack and flipped around the ballroom. The Akuma followed them, calling out more rules as he narrowly missed grabbing their feet. They needed a plan and fast.
Dropping down onto the floor, Ladybug hurled her yo-yo into air. "Lucky Charm!" What landed in her hands was a back scratcher. "I hope I'm not supposed to scratch his back." Her eyes darted around and highlighted the back scratcher, the tie, Chat Noir, and lastly, the dance floor. "Of course! Chat Noir, I'm ready to follow your lead."
The cat hero was surprised when his lady got into position to waltz, but he took her hand, and they started to dance elegantly across the dance floor. As they danced closer and closer to Mr. Etiquette, his grip tightening on his girlfriend, who whispered something into his ear.
The Akuma got ready to use his tie to compel the heroes to give him their Miraculouses. Timing it right, he flicked it out only for it to be caught and pulled off him by the back scratcher.
It was flung into the air and Chat Noir's Cataclysm destroyed it. Upon the tie's destruction, Ladybug's yo-yo started to work again. One quick deevilizing and Miraculous Ladybug, and everything was back to normal.
"Pound it!"
Judekael gasped when he saw the heroes and realized he must have been akumatized. "Mademoiselle Ladybug, Monsieur Chat Noir. I apologize for my behavior. It was uncalled for."
"It's okay. We understand how important tonight must be for you. I hope you enjoy the rest of the ball," Ladybug told him kindly. The two heroes split before their timers ran out.
Once everyone was accounted for and making sure no one was hurt, the evening continued as planned. Madame Eugena stepped in to be Judekael's partner, as the hosts kindly asked Mayor Bourgeois, to take Chloe home. When he asked why, the two siblings informed him of his daughter's refusal to follow the rules.
The night was smashing success for The Parisian School for Charming Young Ladies and Gentlemen. So many donors had been impressed by the students and with Ladybug and Chat Noir's heroics, the final total 846,943.41 euros, a million dollars in the USA! It was truly a wonderful night.
In Seoul, Ning was preparing for her return to Paris. Her flight had been delayed a few days due to unexpected weather conditions. During the wait, she had studied the ayam.
Without any tools to carbon date the item, she has used a variety of history books and estimated the cap was from the middle to later part of the Joseon Period, roughly around the 1680's to the 1890'. The details also indicated it was probably worn by a high ranking kisaeng, (a female entertainer), perhaps employed by nobility.
The craftsmanship was superb. Someone had taken a great deal of time to make the ayam super strong and able to endure the test of time. Even after being buried in the ground for centuries had done little damage to it.
The sardonyx gems, had to come from China. The cut and polish of the gems was high end. Even with a few gems missing, the design was clearly to mimic a magpie. Judging by the placement and stitching, the gem magpie appeared to have been added much later than the creation of the ayam.
Master Fu never said if the Miraculous could be changed throughout history, but it might be possible. To hide in such plain sight, would require being able to match the region and current fashions of the time.
Placing her left hand on the jewel, the mark reappeared on her palm. There was a brief moment of intense pain. The image of a small kwami with a straight black feathery tail, blue wing like hands with a white body flashed in front of her. The word honor whispered in her mind.
Withdrawing her hand, Ning was certain that the ayam was a lost Miraculous. The missing gems seemed to be affecting whatever kwami was inside, perhaps making it sick.
"I have to get this back to Master Fu. Hopefully, the Miraculous Book, will have some information about how to help the kwami trapped inside and what powers it gives a person."