Notes: Darn these giant criminal organizations cutting in on free time
Disclaimer: I don't own the Miraculous franchise, or any franchise really
Miraculous Universe
Ch. 19: Two for the Price of One
In the aftermath of the nightclub being shut down, the police were quite busy for a while having to deal with former patrons upset they had lost their favorite hangout. The heroes tried to assist where and when they could of course, but eventually, the fervor seemed to die down.
"I'm not sure if I like that," Roger said to Sabrina, "If they're no longer making a scene, it could mean they found a way to get their fixes elsewhere."
Not too long after that, the heroes decided they had better pay a visit to the Louvre to ask some questions. And so, at school, about a week after the raid…
"Hey, Alix," Marinette said, "If for some reason the heroes needed to talk to your dad, would he be free to do so?"
"Why do you ask that question? Oh, wait, you're talking about the arrest the cops made. That nightclub was smuggling weapons though."
"Oh, well, I'm actually good friends with Ladybird and Matou Noir. One day I made them some treats as thanks for all the work they've done. That Chaton, he loves to talk, you see. Ladybird told him he shouldn't say anything, but he likes to do his own thing. He told me he saw some paintings of paintings in the basement."
"Wait, she's good friends with me? I mean, with my alter ego?" Adrien thought, "I'm sure we've said hello now and then, but…"
"Our friendly neighborhood cat even showed me one of the pictures."
Alix zoomed in and looked carefully at the picture.
"He's sure this was one of the paintings?"
"Very sure."
"This is definitely one of the paintings that was stolen about a year ago. If you see Ladybird and/or Matou Noir again, you can tell them that my dad is always available."
"I'll be sure to pass on the message. Thanks, Alix."
That weekend, the heroes met up.
"My Lady," Matou Noir said, "Is it true you're friends with Marinette Dupain-Cheng?"
"Oh, absolutely. She's nice enough to provide snacks. Plus, it's nice to have another friend to talk to about girl things. But you know that. You've met her, right?"
"Uh…yeah, I'm sure I have. Maybe I just forgot with all that's been going on."
"Speaking of which," Apireine said, "Can we get on with new business?"
"Seconded," Vipérion said.
"Okay, sorry for the tangent," Ladybird said, "Apireine, you come with us to talk with M. Kubdel about these paintings. The rest of you, find good spots where you can see everything around the Louvre just in case."
That afternoon, Bateleur, Tortank, Zorrua, and Vipérion stood watch. Ladybird, Matou Noir, and Apireine went inside.
"We appreciate you seeing us, M. Kubdel."
"Any way I can be of assistance, Ladybird."
"Apireine took these pictures at the crime scene. The nightclub owner had copies of these paintings. Normally that's nothing out of the ordinary, but he clearly thought of himself as an artist. Being an artist myself, it helps to get up close and personal with your inspiration."
"In other words," Matou Noir said, "He must've been in possession of the original paintings at some point."
Alim looked through every picture.
"Every single one of these paintings were stolen at some point. The police investigated, but nothing was wrong with the security system."
"You think it was an inside job?" Apireine asked.
"Everyone was questioned, but again, no proof was ever found."
"Did the thefts have anything in common?" Ladybird asked.
"There was one thing, actually. All the guards on duty reported a terrible smell. That and the painting disappearing without a trace. Even when the camera was pointing directly at the painting, it just disappeared. Even when the alarm would be triggered, there was never anything to go on."
"And every one of these paintings was valuable?" Matou Noir asked.
"Naturally, although the most priceless pieces are kept behind extra protection. Still, even if the stolen paintings weren't nearly as well known, it's a devastating blow to the museum that they were burgled."
"How often did these burglaries occur?"
"The first one was so long ago…for a while there, it seemed like there was another theft every 6 months, give or take. There hasn't been another in about a year."
"Is there anyone else with access to the control room or security?" Apireine asked.
"Employees only. We frequently have to remind M. Bleuchamp that fact."
"The art collector?"
"Oh, yes. He's always given the museum such generous donations. Still, he has a habit of acting like he's in charge. And just between us, I'm not sure if he partakes in proper hygiene. He insists the smell is from his pomade."
The three heroes seemed to be trying to piece it all together.
"Don't misunderstand me. I may not like the man personally, but he's always supported the arts. I mean, surely you don't think that he…?"
Alim now seemed to be trying to convince himself.
"It doesn't do us any good to speculate," Ladybird said, "Whoever this cat burglar -"
"Hey, I resent that," Matou Noir said.
"Oh, pouah!" Apireine said, "Whoever this thief is, what we really need to lure them out is bait."
"Exactly what I was thinking," Ladybird said.
"Bait?" Alim said, "You mean a new art piece? I don't think we have anything scheduled."
"Well then," Apireine said, "You'll just have to make one up. All you have to do is make an announcement, say how rare and valuable it is, and above all be as vague about everything as possible. I guarantee the thief won't be able to resist."
"We can set up a watch inside the Louvre," Matou Noir said, "We just put the fake painting in a room where the thief has no choice but to sneak past our hiding spots."
"That does sound like it could work," Alim said, "When should we try it?"
"If this thief is part of the same gang as that nightclub owner," Ladybird said, "Then we'd probably better wait another week or two. Because otherwise there's the possibility that the thief will think it's a trap."
"As you say, heroes. The museum thanks you for your efforts."
"Hey, my mother loved museums, but especially art museums," Matou Noir said, "What kind of person would I be if I didn't do everything in my power to protect and recover it all? Until then, M. Kubdel, adieu."
"Allow me to escort you out the back."
The three heroes met up with the rest of the team.
"So what's the plan?" Zorrua asked.
"Two or three weeks from now," Ladybird said, "We're going to set a trap for the thief that's been stealing all these works of art."
"Why the wait?" Tortank said.
"We need to get the thief complacent," Apireine said, "Plus it gives the Louvre time to set up some bait."
With that business set in place, the team departed. Back in school the next week, Chloé was acting excited. At lunch…
"Now that it's April, that means something special."
"Your birthday!" Sabrina quickly said.
"You're talking about your birthday, right?" Zoé asked.
"No, Zo, your birthday."
"Why me specifically? Both our birthdays are in the same month."
"What, did you forget? My dear sister, while you were held back a year due to transferring here from the US of A, you are, as you frequently point out, a year older than I am. Which means this is your 18th birthday. So of course I intend to make it very special."
"Every day is special with you, Chlo."
She rolled her eyes, "Can you ever not say something so sickeningly sweet?"
"I find it balances out your spicy flavor."
Chloé stood up, "Attention, peons, I mean, people. This Saturday is my sister's birthday. There will be a party at -"
"Aboard the Liberty," Luka interrupted.
"Pardon?"
"What better treat than a live band? The party is on my houseboat as a gift."
"Really? Thank you! Everyone else, you don't have to get me anything," Zoé added, "Or at least nothing expensive."
"Okay then," Chloé said, "As the saying goes, be there, or be square."
After school, before the sisters headed home, Chloé had a brief chat with Luka.
"That was quite presumptuous of you back there."
"Well, I knew she'd enjoy a live band, and taking our equipment to your hotel would be a lot of work. This will make her happy, which in turn will make you happy."
"I know it's also my birthday, but…I can't believe I'm saying this. This isn't about me."
"Just because you care about Zoé doesn't mean you should overlook yourself."
"Should I get her something special?"
"She's your sister. You're the one throwing the party. You don't need my advice. I'm sure whatever you got her would be appreciated. In fact, I doubt you need to get her anything. You could get her an empty box that's been gift wrapped, and she'd still love it. She just wants to spend time with you."
"We already do that, you hissing himbo."
"Well, there you go. Maybe I'll get you something."
"You really don't have to do that. This is more special for Zoé because she's hit a milestone, just like you. By the way, now's a good time to wear that vest."
"I'll make a note of it."
That Friday…
"Hey there, my cyan serpent," Chloé said, "I need you to keep this present at your houseboat. If I keep it at the hotel, Zoé will definitely find it."
"It feels kind of light. Is it an accessory? Or maybe an article of clothing?"
"I am sworn to secrecy. I can't tell anyone. Not even you."
The weekend was here in a flash. That morning…
"Chloé, wake up."
"What is it?"
"You told me to wake you up early."
"I changed my mind. We don't need to wake up this early. Go back to sleep."
"How can I go back to sleep when I'm so excited?"
Chloé lifted her sleep mask.
"Get on my bed. Take your shoes off first."
"Okay, now what?"
"Lay down for at least another hour or so. We can grab lunch."
"I told you I don't feel tired."
"What if…I let you cuddle up next to me?"
"You'd let me do that? Won't that make it hard for you to fall back asleep?"
"Not right now it won't. Now come here."
Despite what she said, Zoé did indeed fall back asleep fairly quickly. It was about two hours later when Chloé woke up. Zoé was still holding her tightly.
"Okay, Zo, now you can wake up."
Her eyes fluttered open, "Chlo? So it wasn't a dream. You really let me sleep in your bed."
"Yeah, well, it's your birthday. Don't get used to it."
"Of course I won't. It's just that…having someone to hug like that. It reminds me of how I'm not alone anymore."
"Zo, we've known each other for how long now? Six years, give or take?"
"Yeah, but like you said, 18 is a milestone. I never thought I'd still have a friend, much less a sister. Now I have lots of friends, and a loving family."
"Why must you be so saccharine?" she said, giving her a hug, "I'll tell you now what I said to you when we first met. You'll never be alone again. Not while I'm around. Now go get ready so we can have lunch."
Zoé grabbed her shoes and rushed out of the room. Chloé quickly washed up and got dressed.
"I always plan ahead what I'm going to wear."
Chloé was wearing jeans, cowboy boots, a large belt, a nice button shirt, and a cowboy hat.
"Chlo, love your hair, but is there a reason you dressed up like a cowgirl?"
"It's to remind you of where you came from, sister dear. Well, that and because I look good in this outfit."
"You look good in every outfit."
"Glad you remembered that. Meanwhile, you look like a stereotypical French woman."
Zoé was wearing a skirt, leggings, boots, a horizontally-striped shirt, and a béret.
"To make sure everyone knows I'm right where I belong."
As soon as they went upstairs to the dining hall…
"Good afternoon, mes anges."
"Papa? I wasn't sure if you'd be here," Chloé said.
"I made sure to schedule some time off for my daughters' birthdays."
They all hugged.
"I love when you call me that," Zoé said.
"Now what shall we have for lunch, my dears?"
"Is there any French dish you haven't already eaten, Zoé?" Chloé asked.
After lunch, their next stop was the massage parlor.
"Master Fu, today is Zoé's birthday."
"Is that so? Well then, joyeux anniversaire!"
"Merci, Master Fu," Zoé said.
"Today is obviously very special, so of course we came here for your masterful massage."
"I'm honored. Please get ready."
"By the way, Fu," Chloé continued, "Do you think we could get a crash course on all the Miraculous this time?"
Two massages and a Miraculous 101 course later…
"Have a good rest of your day."
"Thanks, Master Fu," they both said.
The sisters got back into the limo.
"Where to, girls?" Armand asked.
"First to pick up Sabrina," Chloé said, "And then to the Agreste mansion. We simply must pick up Adrien. Wouldn't you agree?"
"Absolutely," Zoé replied, "It wouldn't be the same without him."
They got to Sabrina's house fairly quickly.
"Happy birthday, sisters!" Sabrina said.
"Thanks, Sabrina," they both said.
"Where are we going now?"
"To get Adrien of course, my dear Brina," Chloé replied.
As soon as they got to the mansion, Chloé rang the bell and began shouting.
"Hey, Gabriel! Open up!"
Gabriel shuddered, "What does she want?"
"It's the Bourgeois sisters' birthday party today, sir. You know they won't leave you alone until you let Adrien go."
"GABE!" Chloé's voice rang out.
Gabriel growled, "Fine! Get him out of here. Anything to be rid of that horrible girl. I swear, she's worse than Amelie."
Outside, Nathalie's voice came out over the speaker.
"He'll be out in a few minutes. Please stop making a scene."
"Merci, Nathalie," Chloé replied, as sweetly as possible.
"I love watching you work, Chlo," Zoé said.
Sabrina was too busy laughing to say anything. Sure enough, in a few minutes, Adrien and Placide walked out and headed for the car.
"See you at the houseboat, Chlo."
"Now that that's taken care of," Chloé said, "Let's get this party started."
As soon as the girls walked into the deck of the houseboat, everyone jumped out from a hiding spot.
"Happy Birthday, Zoé!" everyone shouted.
"And Chloé, too!" Sabrina declared.
"Wait, it is?" Alix asked.
"Oh yeah, that's right," Nathaniel said.
"I thought it was next week?" Kim asked.
"Okay, that's it," Chloé said, "Now I'm annoyed."
She went inside.
"Chlo, come on," Zoé said, "They were kidding."
"Just eat some snacks," she called back, "I'm busy."
Chloé went looking around in Luka's room for the present.
"Ahem."
"What?! Where are you?"
"Look out the porthole."
"The what now?"
"The round window."
She looked to see Luka hanging outside the porthole.
"Why are you hanging outside like that?"
"To be cool, I guess."
"Well, it's not working. You just look like a fool. You could fall into the Seine, and I'm not going to dive in and help you."
"Well then could you help me through the porthole?"
"I suppose so."
She grabbed his arm as he slithered through the porthole.
"They do say a snake can squeeze through practically any opening. Now tell me where that present is. I have to give it to Zoé in front of everyone."
"That's a cool outfit you're wearing."
"Thank you, aoi hebi."
"So you've moved on to Japanese for my collection of nicknames."
"I have to expand my repertoire. I see you're wearing the vest I gave you."
"I told you I would. However, as per your request, I didn't get you anything."
"Good, because I don't want anything to show up my sister."
"It's sweet how much you care."
"Yeah…don't tell anyone."
"What, and tarnish your reputation? Heaven forbid."
He took her hands in his.
"What are you…?"
He smiled, "Happy birthday, Chloé."
Luka started to lean in closer, and she did as well, almost without thinking.
"Hey, Luka!" Kim shouted, "Let's have some tunes!"
In order to save face, Luka merely bumped his forehead into Chloé's.
"Let me get that present."
He dug under his bed for it and handed it to Chloé.
"Thanks."
"My pleasure. And now, it's time to play the music."
He walked out, leaving Chloé alone with the present. She stood there for about a minute, lost in thought, but simply sighed and followed him out. Kitty Section had already started playing, and everyone else was…attempting to dance. Once the song was over, Marinette jumped onto the stage.
"Intermission, everyone! Who wants some cake?"
Marinette began serving the cake to her friends. After everyone had a piece, she reached under the table and pulled out a large birthday card.
"I know you said we didn't need to get you anything, Zoé, but we all decided to at least give you a card."
She handed the card to Zoé, who opened it and saw that everyone had signed it.
"Thank you, everyone," she said, "This is the best present ever."
"That's what you think!" Chloé shouted, "Because I have the perfect gift in this very box! Zoé Bourgeois, come on down!"
The sisters were now standing on the stage.
"Happy birthday, mon sœur!"
Zoé looked the present over. The wrapping paper was very shiny. She then shook the box to see if she could guess what was inside. She finally tore off the paper and opened the box. She looked inside and began to laugh. Adrien walked up to the stage.
"What's the gag, Zo?"
Zoé held the box over her head so that everyone could see what was inside. Everyone had a look of confusion on their face. The box was empty.
"Am I crazy?" Marinette asked, "Or is that box empty?"
"You are a little crazy," Chloé replied, "But yes, it is empty."
"Okay, but why is it empty?" Alya asked.
"I couldn't think of what to get Zoé. So I took an ordinary box and gave it very fancy wrapping paper. I kind of hoped that she'd look at the box and say that it's too pretty to unwrap…and then she wouldn't."
Everyone nodded as if they understood, but they still didn't know what to think. Zoé, on the other hand, was still laughing. She hugged her sister.
"This was the best gift ever! Thank you so much, Chlo!"
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. If you didn't, I'd like to clarify that it's Luka's fault."
Everyone turned to look at Luka.
"What? Me?"
"I distinctly remember you saying that I could give Zoé an empty box that's been gift wrapped and she'd love it."
"That was hypothetical, not a suggestion!"
"That actually is pretty funny," Kagami said.
"With context, yeah, it is funny," Adrien said.
Another event was done, and life went on. It was near the end of April when the article appeared online. The Louvre was procuring a new art piece, but being very quiet about what it was.
"It's a complete secret," Alim Kubdel said, "However, I can say we were very lucky to get the rights to display this magnificent work of art. A lot of favors had to be called in. It should arrive by next weekend."
Naturally, as predicted, this mere tidbit of information was enough to entice the thief.
"A new art piece, is it?" Cyrille said to himself, "Well, it has been a while since I added to my collection."
He went to his secret room to look over all the paintings he had stolen over the years.
"With that imbecile René locked up, I'll need the extra income. Honestly, one distribution center gets shut down and that fool Mr. Big becomes riled up," he was now fidgeting with his thumb ring, "This is why it pays to have your own side operation."
After the news report, Team Miraculous met up at Fu's massage parlor to have a more discreet discussion of the situation.
"I don't think I've ever been here before," Vipèrion said, "This is a really nice place. I like the aesthetics."
"Thank you, young man," Fu replied, "I do try."
"Okay, team," Ladybird said, "Here's a layout of the Louvre. M. Kubdel was nice enough to provide us with it. This is the room where the bait will be displayed. As you can see, there's only one way in or out of this room. The thief likely won't suspect a trap, so we'll have someone keeping watch in the corner of the room. That'll be you, Chaton, since you can see in the dark."
"Copy that, My Lady."
"What about me?" Zorrua asked, "I can see in the dark."
"You'd better stay in the hallway in case the thief tries to make a getaway. We'll need your illusions, I'm sure."
"I'll keep watch in the display room with Matou Noir," Vipèrion said.
"You can see in the dark?" Apireine asked.
"Kinda, yeah, but mostly I can sense heat coming from others."
"You mean you have infrared vision?" Tortank asked.
"Say what? You can do that?"
"Well yeah, I'm a snake. It's only present in boas, pythons, and pit vipers, but I've got it, too."
"That sounds incredibly useful," Matou Noir said.
"Okay, perfect," Ladybird continued, "With you two hiding in the corners, and the rest of us keeping watch in the other hallways, we're bound to catch him."
"One thing though," Bateleur said, "We don't know which Miraculous he has."
"Right…that could be a problem."
"How do you know it's a man?" Tortank asked.
"Something that M. Kubdel said," Noir explained, "Every burglary, the guards reported the same thing: a strong, unpleasant odor. He also said that Cyrille Bleuchamp, the art collector, constantly smells bad. While it could be a coincidence, my gut tells me otherwise."
"I think you should listen," Vipèrion said.
"Back to the previous topic," Ladybird said, "Which Miraculous might the thief have? I guess in that case we'll just have to be flexible."
"That should be easy for you, My Lady. You said you were taking gymnastics."
"You know that's not what I mean."
"I'm certainly very flexible," Apireine said, "I'm an expert at ballet and figure skating."
"I'm a snake," Vipèrion said, "Being flexible comes with the territory."
"Enough already," Ladybird said, "We'll let the police know in advance what we're doing. Next weekend, we each sneak into the Louvre and hide until they close. M. Kubdel will make sure none of the other employees bump into us. Let's go!"
She was heading for the door.
"Uh, My Lady?"
"What?"
"You just said it wasn't until next weekend."
"...oh, right…got carried away. Sorry."
"It's so fascinating watching you work," Fu said.
"If this meeting is over, can we go now?" Apireine asked, "I have other things I could be doing."
"Like what?" Bateleur asked.
"I'm sure I'd think of something. I vote to end the meeting."
"Seconded," Vipèrion said.
"Okay already," Ladybird said, "Everyone do some training and keep an eye on the news. We shall strike the Saturday after next."
She then pulled Tortank close.
"Ask your mom if you can spend the night," she whispered, "It'll save time."
Tortank winked in response. The next two weeks were full of school and training. The news was peppered with frequent updates about the upcoming art display that was to be added. Cyrille Bleuchamp was getting more and more excited to steal whatever it was.
"If they're making this big a deal about it, then it must be worth stealing."
At last, the day had arrived. It was Friday morning when the news report came out online.
"Our new art piece has arrived at last," Alim Kubdel said, "We'll leave it in its display case in this room for now. Tomorrow morning, we'll open and have the grand unveiling."
Once the Louvre closed and the sun started setting, the plan went into action.
"Okay, team," Ladybird said, "Just in case the thief might be watching the Louvre, Zorrua will make copies of us heading for the other side of the city. Whenever you're ready."
"Mirage!"
Everyone now had a copy of themselves. The illusions began running all across the rooftops of Paris. The real heroes, meanwhile, went into stealth mode again. One by one, they snuck into the Louvre. The alarm system was turned off as per M. Kubdel's orders. Everyone went to find a good spot to hide in. Ladybird was in the control room so she could see all the security cameras. Matou Noir and Vipèrion took their stations in the display room. While the Cat seamlessly blended into the shadows, the Snake hid behind a potted plant. Outside, Cyrille was keeping an eye on who he thought were the heroes. It wasn't until they all seemed to vanish that he made his move. As he snuck closer, he noticed several security guards running around outside.
"What's going on here? Let's find out, shall we? Transformez moi."
His suit was now red and black. A red domino mask with a small yellow beak covered his eyes. His black hair now had a line of red, like a rooster's comb. On his left hand was the Rooster Miraculous. Attached to his left glove was a fountain pen. Vain as he was, he stopped to check his reflection in a nearby window.
"Hair is fine. Mustache is fine. Time to get to work."
He grabbed the fountain pen and twirled it around in his fingers for a bit as he thought of a plan.
"Why am I thinking about this? Sublimation," he said, as the feather pen glowed, "The power to make myself and anything I touch invisible."
With that, he disappeared from sight and started to move closer to the building. As he got closer, he could overhear the guards.
"What happened to the security system?"
"There's a problem with the power."
"I called the electric company. They're sending someone out here."
"So that's why we're all out here? Shouldn't someone stay inside?"
"M. Kubdel is still inside, but honestly, with all of us out here, who'd try anything?"
Cyrille smirked to himself and made his way past the guards.
"The fools," he thought, "So confident, and yet they leave the front door unlocked."
He snuck past the guards and went inside. It was pitch black in the building. He started searching all the nearby rooms. He finally found the right room and, perhaps out of instinct, began to tiptoe towards the painting. Matou Noir and Vipérion were scanning the room to detect any movement. Noir pulled out his staff. Cyrille reached the covered painting and whipped off the cloth to find…
"Nothing?! I've been tricked! I have to get out of here before the guards come back inside."
He began to run out of the room, but Matou Noir extended his staff and stretched it across the doorway and ankle level. They couldn't see him, but they certainly heard someone trip and fall.
"Now!" Noir shouted.
The lights came on and everyone rushed out of hiding. Tortank pointed her shield at the front door.
"Shell-ter!"
Cyrille quickly whispered out loud, "Sublimation. The power to throw my voice."
"No way out, M. Bleuchamp," Ladybird said, joining the group.
"You must be joking," he said, trying to make his voice sound deeper, "I am no mere art collector. I am a black market dealer. They call me Janus."
"The two-faced Roman god," Vespireine said, "How fitting."
"His voice sounds like it's coming from everywhere," Zorrua said.
"And the stench is a dead giveaway," Bateleur said.
Vipèrion said nothing, just kept scanning the room while flicking his tongue in and out. Janus began crawling towards the back exit.
"I think we'd better split up," Vipèrion said at last.
Ladybird was about to reply, when she received a message on her yo-yo.
V: I have a visual, so to speak. Everyone should head for the back
LB: Copy that
"Okay, team, he's right. We should split up," Ladybird said, "Tortank will stay here and guard the entrance for a bit, and then check the perimeter. Zorrua, go that way. Bateleur, head outside. Chaton, we'll head this way. Vipèrion and Vespireine will head towards the back. And…break!"
Ladybird sent everyone a message.
LB: After a few minutes, everyone should slowly head towards the back and wait for the Snake's signal
As everyone else walked off into different parts of the Louvre, Vespireine looked over at Vipèrion. He kept glancing all around the area and flicking his tongue in and out.
"What are you -"
He placed a finger on her lips and she immediately stopped talking.
He leaned in close and whispered directly into her ear, "Just follow my lead."
She shuddered after he spoke. He gestured towards the inner section of the museum and they began walking. She got a message.
V: I think I've got him. Be distracting
"So where exactly are we going?" she asked, "Why do I have to follow you? Who put you in charge?"
"I think I'm a bit more stealthy than you, Mlle. Wasp."
"What, just because you're a snake? So if we were to switch Miraculous, with you as the Bee and me as the Snake, that would automatically make me more stealthy?"
"It might if you could keep quiet for more than five minutes."
"Watch your mouth, you pathetic pit viper."
"Look, wasp woman, I can't concentrate if you keep screeching at me."
"You've never seen me when I'm angry, you bumbling boa. If I was really angry, I'd do far more than sting you."
"You think if we were to fight that you'd win?"
"I know I would. I've learned savate. Oh, and no using superpowers. It would end too quickly."
"Can we talk about something else?"
"Have you ever actually dated anyone before?"
"Interesting topic, but yes, I have. Why do you ask?"
"You seem more like the type that would stay home and play loud music."
"And you seem like the type that would scare away anyone who might even think about dating you."
"I've had plenty of dates, you garrulous grass snake."
Meanwhile, Janus was still crawling as fast as he could,trying not to make any noise.
"These two idiots are starting to drive me mad," he thought, "But since they're obviously too busy arguing with each other, they don't realize that they're only a few feet behind me. I just have to keep moving until we get to one of the back entrances. Then at the first opportunity, I'll make a run for it."
"And another thing, what is that smell? Is that you?"
"Why do you automatically assume it's me?"
"Because you're the only one here, you addlepated asp. That and because I'm the most clean and hygienic person on the team. I'm utter perfection."
"Yeah, perfectly imperfect."
She was now hovering in the air, "Why you…!"
She then got an idea. She landed back on the ground.
"Ouch!"
"Are you okay?"
"I think I landed wrong and twisted my ankle. I'm so clumsy sometimes."
"Okay, now she would never say that," Vipèrion thought.
"I don't want to impose, but if you could help me, please?"
"It would be my pleasure," he replied, picking her up in his arms.
"Oh my, you're so strong."
"Thanks, although this is a bit tricky with your wings."
She leaned her head against his shoulder.
"Oh, gag me," Janus thought, "I preferred it when they were fighting."
The pair didn't say anything for a few minutes.
"I think we're almost at the exit," Vipèrion said.
"In that case, you can put me down. I feel better. In fact, I was fine the whole time. Thanks for the ride."
"I can't believe you tricked me!"
"You really should've known I'd try something like this."
"Okay, that's it. I'm tired of you taking advantage of me. You want to fight? Then let's fight!"
"And here I thought I was the overdramatic one. Fine by me! As soon as we get outside, we're going to have a duel, and I don't mean with cards."
"Why wait when we can fight right now?"
"Because we're in the Louvre, you idiot! We could destroy something."
"Excuses! All you ever have are excuses!"
"Talk about a roller coaster," Janus thought, "If they're busy fighting, I can get up and walk right out the door."
As he did so, Vipèrion looked out of the corner of his eye.
"You can't talk to me that way, you venomous varlet! I'll give you a taste of what you're dishing out. Venom!"
"You want a piece of me? Come and get it!"
Vespireine flew at him, arm outstretched. He grabbed her arm before she could sting him. The two were now struggling and moving towards the exit.
"Let go, you jerk!"
"I've had just about enough of you."
He motioned his head off to his right. Vespireine wrenched her arm free and stabbed at him. She missed and hit what appeared to be air, but…
"ACK!"
They waited a few seconds.
"He's not going anywhere," Vipèrion said.
"So you really can see him?"
"More or less. Open the door. I'll drag him out."
As soon as they were outside, the rest of the team showed up.
"Is he here?" Matou Noir asked.
"Yeah, but I really don't want to have to feel all over his body," Vipèrion replied, "Does anyone have powder or paint or something?"
"If you'll allow me," Roger said, joining the group, "I have that dust we use for crime scenes."
"Ooh, may I?" Ladybird asked.
"By all means."
She threw the contents of the container all over their prisoner.
"Do you see the Miraculous he used?" Bateleur asked.
"This is it right here on his right hand."
She pulled it off and he reappeared.
"So that's how he did it," Tortank said, "He turned invisible. What Miraculous can do that?"
Ladybird held up a thumb ring shaped like a rooster's spur, "This is the Rooster Miraculous. It grants the power to give yourself a variety of other abilities, to an extent. No asking about secret identities. No wishes that can change the world. No perfect copies of other Miraculous powers."
"That still sounds kinda vague," Zorrua said.
"Hey, I didn't make them. Let's get M. Kubdel and the rest of the security team."
They tied up Cyrille Bleuchamp and waited. Alim arrived with the rest of the police in tow.
"I see you've caught the rascal. Bateleur told me what happened, so I phoned the police immediately."
"The petty thief should be freed from his paralysis by now," Vespireine said.
"How dare you treat me this way? Unhand me, you fools!"
He went quiet when he saw all the policemen surrounding him.
"I've a warrant for your arrest, M. Bleuchamp," Roger said.
"You can't prove anything!"
"Apart from trespassing, breaking and entering, and attempted burglary? Well, I might be able to prove something with this search warrant I have for your fine home."
Soon, the police had swarmed all over the Bleuchamp house and found his collection.
"I'd say this cements your stay in prison," Roger said.
That's when Nadja and her crew arrived.
"This is Nadja Chmack. Don't be bemused, it's just the news. Tonight, the police conducted a thorough search of the home of the noted art collector and philanthropist Cyrille Bleuchamp. Any details you can share with us, Brigadier?"
"I can't share any information about the arrest, but as you and your crew can clearly see, we've recovered paintings that had been reported stolen a few years ago. The Louvre will be glad to have them back. Take him away!"
"No, wait!" Cyrille cried, "Don't put me in prison here! They'll come after me! Transfer me to another country or something!"
He continued to plead as the police dragged him away. Mr. Big and Sévérine were watching the news report.
"I'm glad he knows exactly what we're going to do to him. Call her up and tell her to get ready."
Sévérine nodded, "Right away, Sir."
The Agreste mansion
"That's one more taken care of, Nathalie."
"I can't believe that two-faced loser was stealing paintings from the Louvre."
The Tsurugi residence
"My goodness," Tomoe said, "Yet another interesting news story."
The crime scene
"You know, he might be right," Matou Noir said, "What if they do send someone to keep his mouth shut?"
"That René guy didn't seem worried about it happening to him," Zorrua noted.
"Well, after listening in on his conversation," Tortank said, "René and the big boss sounded like they got along. This jerk is clearly doing his own thing."
"And if the last two gang members had a Miraculous," Bateleur said, "This next one probably will as well."
"It looks like we'll have to accompany the prisoner down to the station," Ladybird said, "That is, if you don't mind, Brigadier."
"If these people are using magic as you claim, then the only smart thing would be to allow you to watch his cell."
"Well then, what are we waiting for?" Vespireine said, "Let's get over there fast."
The team met up atop the police station.
"I think we'd better split up the team," Matou Noir said, "If all of us are inside, we might end up tripping over each other."
"Probably a good idea," Ladybird said, "How should we do this?"
Vipérion spoke, "I think Ladybird, Tortank, and Vespireine should all keep watch outside. Matou Noir, Zorrua, Bateleur, and myself will stand guard by the jail cell."
"What made you arrange it that way?" Vespireine asked.
"The four of us have enhanced senses, seeing as we're all predatory animals."
"Ladybugs, some wasps, and some turtles are carnivores though," Tortank pointed out, "But I get what you're saying."
"Let's inform our guest about this favor we're doing him," Ladybird said.
They met up with Roger again and he escorted them to the holding cell block. Even though he was stuck in a jail cell, Cyrille looked extremely nervous. Once he saw the heroes, he began to panic.
"You have to get me out of here! Don't you understand?! They know I'll talk! They'll send someone to shut me up! I don't want to die!"
"We're here to make sure that doesn't happen," Matou Noir said.
"You're no match for Chevalier de Baronne. She's the organization's best assassin. She has ways of bypassing security."
"Baroness Knight?" Zorrua said, "Someone thinks highly of herself."
"You could make it easier for us if you told us which Miraculous she uses," Noir asked.
"I don't know! That's the one thing they never told me about."
Vespireine leaned over to Ladybird and whispered, "Which one could do what he's describing?"
"I have an idea, but that's all it is," she then addressed the team, "Just like we talked about. We'll head outside and keep watch. You four stay here. Call if you need anything."
As the trio walked outside, the Ladybug and the Bee grabbed the Turtle and flew her to the top of the roof to save time. The three then spread out and started to look over the area. Quite a distance away, the aforementioned assassin was watching the police station.
"So that coward begged the heroes to protect him from me. It's cute how they think they can stop me. Transform me."
She slunk into the shadows to find a way inside.
Meanwhile…
Cyrille was sitting in the middle of his cell, still nervously looking around. The four heroes were in different corners of the room, constantly looking back and forth for any signs of trouble.
"What good is having an enhanced sense of smell if this guy's stench is covering everything?" Zorrua asked.
"Seriously," Bateleur said, "Do you ever shower at all?"
"That is my hair treatment!" Cyrille snapped.
"Yeah, sure, wink wink," Vipérion said.
"Why you little -"
"Hey, skunk man," Matou Noir said, "If you really want us to save your life, zip your lip."
The Cat now seemed to be listening for something. Zorrua was about to say something, but Matou Noir held up a hand to stop him. Instead, the Fox also started to listen. He then began to sniff the air. Vipérion started to flick his tongue in and out. Bateleur began looking everywhere in the room in case something was overlooked. Zorrua and Matou Noir were now both smelling as well as listening.
After about a minute, Zorrua said, "There's someone else here."
Matou Noir crouched down and began moving on all fours.
"Did I just see something moving?"
His belt tail began to twitch. The others were watching him, while at the same time keeping an eye on everything else. Suddenly, the Cat hero pounced on something.
"Look what I caught."
Bateleur was surprised, "Is that a…?"
He held up a woman the size of a mouse who kept struggling to get out of his grasp. He was trying to get a good look at her.
"I think her Miraculous is -"
She pulled out a tiny knife and stabbed Matou Noir in the hand, causing him to drop her.
"Ow, that hurt. Guys, you better keep your eyes open. Not only is there an assassin about, but possibly more than one."
The other three heroes began scanning the room. Matou Noir sent Ladybird a message.
MN: Do you think you can find a big, empty jar?
LB: A jar? Okay…
MN: Oh, and put a force field around the police station. She's here
"What did he say?" Vespireine asked.
"He needs a jar."
"A jar of what?"
"Just a jar. Tortank, work your magic around the entire police station."
"Copy that, Ladybird. Shell-ter!"
A green force field now covered the police station.
"I'd better get inside. You two stay out here, just in case."
Ladybird ran inside and said, "Lucky Charm!"
Sure enough, a semi-transparent ladybug pattern jar was created.
"Well that was lucky. Oh yeah, it actually is, because I'm a ladybug."
She went into the holding area to see the heroes crawling around.
"What's going on?"
"The assassin is really tiny," Matou Noir said.
"Tiny? Then that means -"
Suddenly, Zorrua leapt into the air and pounced on something.
"Got one!"
"Put her in the jar before she tries anything," Noir said.
Zorrua did so, and the miniature assassin was less than pleased. Vipérion quickly grabbed something with his right and just as quickly dropped it into the jar. There were now two tiny women inside.
"You think this'll stop me?!" she shrieked in a tiny voice.
"You know, we can't take you seriously with a voice like that," Ladybird said.
Matou Noir took a swipe at something. Another copy of the assassin girl went flying across the room and smacked into the wall. Chevalier de Baronne, fed up that her copies were being captured left and right, merged a few of them together. This copy was now doll-sized. She grabbed the rope around her waist and quickly wrapped it around Cyrille's neck.
"Help!"
"I'll take care of this," Bateleur said.
She began flapping her wings faster and faster, whipping up a great amount of wind in the room. This caused any copies of the assassin to come flying out of their hiding spots. All of her copies being thrown across the room caused the assassin to hesitate. She kept shaking her head like she couldn't focus.
"All the copies have to be linked," Ladybird thought.
She grabbed a few more of the clones, stuffed them in the jar, and began shaking them around roughly.
The assassin woman finally got fed up, "Cut it out!"
All of her clones disappeared, and she was now standing behind Cyrille at her normal size. Bateleur stopped her windstorm. The assassin pulled her Miraculous off.
"I don't need this thing to kill this idiot."
She pulled out a gun, but Matou Noir tackled her to the ground. At the same time, Cyrille was huddled in a ball in the corner of his cell.
"Cataclysm!"
The gun was now disintegrated. With a snarl, she then pulled out a dagger. Ladybird rushed over and began smacking her in the face with the jar.
"Stop that!"
Vipérion walked over and squeezed her wrist until she dropped the dagger.
"OW! No fair!"
"You're the one who took off your super villain costume, genius," Bateleur said.
They pinned her down and searched her for any other weapons.
Zorrua stuck his head out the door, "Officer!"
Roger and a few other cops walked into the room.
"So you caught the hitwoman, I see," Roger said, "I got a hold of Interpol. While the gang itself is infamous, if they're using magic like you say they are, it must be why they can't be identified. Where are those keys for the cells?"
Cyrille Bleuchamp and Élodie were placed in cells that were a good distance away from each other.
"If you tell them anything, you smelly old fop," Élodie said, "The boss will find out."
Meanwhile, Ladybird picked up the Miraculous that was thrown to the floor. It was a silver coin pendant with five pink mice designs on it.
"I don't think they'll try that again tonight," Ladybird said to Roger, "A regular guard or two should be enough for these criminals now."
"Thank you for everything," Roger said, "All of you."
"All in a night's work, Brigadier," Matou Noir said.
"Team, let's head out," Ladybird said.
As soon as they were outside, Tortank dropped the barrier and they convened on a nearby rooftop.
"So, what did we miss?" Vespireine asked.
"That crazy assassin lady threw away her Miraculous just to try and use regular weapons on us," Zorrua replied.
"She sounds kinda stupid. So which Miraculous is it?"
Ladybird held it up, "This is the Mouse Miraculous. It allows you to make as many copies of yourself as you want, but the more you make, the smaller you get."
"I guess that could be handy for spying or something," Tortank said.
"Are we done now?" Vespireine asked, "It's been a long night."
"She's right for once," Vipérion said, "It has been quite a night."
"What do you mean for once? I'm always right!"
"Sure, honey, sure," Bateleur replied.
"Heh heh, honey," Matou Noir snickered, "That's right up there with let's bee friends."
A memory from what seemed so long ago popped into Ladybird's head. She looked at Matou Noir.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
"Oh, uh, it's nothing. I was just going to say that I agree. It has been a long, but productive night. I guess we'll have to wait for another lead before we do something else to stop these guys. Remember to keep up with your training. Maybe I'll demonstrate the Miraculous we've recovered so far. A bientôt!"
Ladybird and Tortank went off in one direction, Zorrua in another, and Matou Noir in yet another. Bateleur was about to take off.
"Hey, you go on ahead," Vespireine said, "Just give me a minute."
She looked at her sister, and then at the Snake hero.
"If you say so," she said with a smile.
Vipérion and Vespireine were now alone.
"So, uh, that act we put on at the Louvre. It was just acting, right?" she asked.
He shrugged, "Bits of it, yes. Although you could call it a rehearsal."
"My, aren't we confident?"
"One would have to be when dealing with you. Bonsoir, Mademoiselle."
With a bow, he took off into the night.
She sighed, "Bonsoir, mon cher."
She then flew off to catch up with her sister.