Notes: Let's get ready to rumble!
Disclaimer: I definitely don't own the Miraculous franchise.
Miraculous Universe
Ch. 14: Attack of the Style Queen
It was a week before the fashion show. Chloé and Zoé went to Marinette's house.
"Good day to you," Zoé said, "Is Marinette here?"
"You're here rather early," Tom said, "I think she's still asleep."
"Well she'll have to wake up," Chloé said, "Because this is important. We're going to help her pick out an outfit for the fashion show next weekend."
"My goodness," Sabine said, "That's very thoughtful of you, Chloé."
"Well, she's already going to be nervous. She may as well look good at the same time. You don't mind if we go in there, right?"
"Well, I -"
"Thank you!"
Chloé went through the hatch and right up to Marinette's bed.
"Chloé, I think you're being a bit pushy."
"Of course I am, Zoé! I said this was important. Time to wake up, Marinette."
She covered her head with the blanket, "Five more minutes."
Chloé yanked the blanket away, "WAKE UP!"
Marinette screamed, "GAH! What are you doing here?!"
"Making sure you don't embarrass yourself too much. Now wash up and get dressed. We've got some shopping to do!"
"Sorry, Marinette," Zoé said.
"Make it snappy! We'll be in the limo."
Inside the limo, the sisters closed their eyes and relaxed.
"I hope you didn't scare her too much."
Chloé opened one eye to look at Luka.
"If I did, it's to prep her for Gabriel and the Style Queen. Why are you here again?"
"Because Jules asked me to come. Besides, don't act like you're not happy I'm tagging along."
"Whatever."
Juleka gave her brother a look, but he just shrugged. It took about 15-20 minutes, but Marinette finally stumbled into the limo.
"Oh, hey, Juleka, Luka. What are you two doing here?"
Juleka started to mumble, "Well, I, uh..."
"Jules wants to be a model," Luka explained, "And Chloé of all people has decided to help her out."
"Oh, yeah? What's in it for you?"
"How dare you question my most definitely altruistic behavior, Dupain-Cheng? I'm helping you, too, after all."
"That doesn't make it any less confusing."
Chloé looked at Juleka, "I'm going to tell you the same thing I told the baker girl here a long time ago. When you become famous, don't forget who gave you your start. As for you, Marinette, I know exactly how to get you to stop asking so many questions."
"I can't imagine what it could be."
"Adrien's meeting us there."
Marinette's eyes went wide, "He is?!"
"Of course he is! After he models your hat, you'll be expected to stand next to him as the up and coming designer that you are. Your outfits should match."
"This is all so confusing," Zoé said.
"Don't think I forgot about getting you a new outfit as well, sister dear. No self-made shoes this time. Oh, and since you insist on going everywhere your sister goes, mon Chouka, that means I'll have to get you looking presentable as well."
Luka said nothing, but gave a confused look, "Mon Chouka?"
They finally arrived at the clothing store. As they were about to enter, Alya, Nino, Adrien, and Kagami met them in front of the store.
"Adrikins, Kagami, you're here. What are those two doing here, though?"
"I have an invitation, as a matter of fact," Alya said.
"She and Nadja worked it out," Nino explained, "All her blogging is getting her recognized."
"My mother expects me to be there, but I have no outfit that seems right for the occasion" Kagami said, "It seems I must, however reluctantly, rely on your capable hands for this situation, Chloé."
"You won't regret it, mon amie. Or should I call you my nakama?"
"I'd rather you didn't."
They all walked inside and were soon perusing the racks.
"How about this one?" Juleka asked.
Chloé shook her head, "I know you like black, but you need to stand out a bit more. I think you should focus more on a shade of purple. You point out the style of dress you like, and I'll help with the color."
Juleka led the way and pointed to a row of dresses. Chloé began digging through the racks.
"Here we go. I think you could pull off fuchsia. Go try it on. I'll get your brother so he can give his irrelevant opinion."
On another side of the store, Nino was holding several dresses for Alya.
"These are kind of pricey, Als."
"I realize that, Nino, but I'm only buying one. You have to spoil yourself once in a while."
Alya got a text message.
Nette: Can you come here? Dressing room
"Come on, handsome. Marinette needs my help. Put those down except for the green one."
Meanwhile, Chloé was shoving Juleka into a changing room.
"While you're doing that, I'm on to the next person in my queue."
She decided to help Kagami.
"I think you'd look good in a shade of blue, with a bit of gold thrown in."
"I was actually thinking the same thing," Kagami said, "But my mother told me to wear red."
"She only wants you to wear red because it matches her stupid car. That's exactly why you should wear blue. It helps you stand out against your mother."
"Thank you, Chloé. How about this one?"
"It's a lighter shade, but not light enough that I'm reminded of Aurore. She always wears sky blue. Better go try it on."
Chloé moved on to the next person.
"Having problems, sister dear?"
"I told you when we first met that I'm not good at this. All that matters to me is if it's comfortable."
"I think the best thing to do is find something in a shade of pink to go with your hair streak."
"Pink? I don't know..."
"Fine, what about pink and black?"
"That does actually sound like good combination."
"Here's a good one. Don't you think?"
"I do. I'll go try it on right now!"
"That's my girl. Don't forget some proper shoes!"
Chloé headed for the men's section.
"Ah, my toughest challenge yet. Are you trying to find a suit that'll match your hair, musician king?"
He shrugged, "It's as good an idea as any. I'm not used to dressing up all fancy like this."
"That much is clear. However, I've seen how nice you can look. It's all a matter of choosing the right look."
"You're a bit of a contradiction, you know that?"
"I'm sure I do, but keep talking."
"You always insult me, and then compliment me. Or sometimes you compliment me, and then insult me."
"You know I'm not being malicious."
"I can tell you're not. It's still confusing."
"I've never heard you complain, though. In fact, you can dish it as well as take it."
"I don't know what it is about you that fascinates me."
Chloé felt a shiver run through her body, "It's a bit warm in here, isn't it? Anyway, I think this should suit you fine. Get it? Suit. Ha ha. Try it on."
She pushed him towards the changing rooms. As he went into the nearest room, that's when Chloé saw Marinette's dress. It was white and gold.
"I can't believe it. You actually look amazing."
Marinette was very surprised, "Oh, well...thank you, Chloé."
"For once."
Marinette ignored her, "I'm sticking with this then. Go ahead and change, Als."
"Right! Be right back, Nino," she said with a wink.
As soon as Alya was in a changing room, the others came out to show the results.
Chloé wiped away a non-existent tear, "I did such a good job picking out your outfits. I'm such a genius!"
"Yes, Chloé, we know," Zoé said, "What about your dress?"
"I bought my dress as soon as I heard about the fashion show."
"Wasn't that months ago?"
"Exactly."
That's when Alya came out of the dressing room.
"Well, Nino, how do I look?"
Nino pretended to faint.
Alya rolled her eyes, "Get up, Nino."
"I can't! You're just too beautiful. I can't help but stare, but at the same time, if I do so for too long, I get overwhelmed."
"Just try on your outfit so we can see how we look together."
Adrien, who didn't have to worry about what he was wearing since he was going to be changing clothes a lot that day, was busying himself by walking around the store and looking at all the different clothing brands. He quickly walked past the Gabriel brand clothing. He started to walk back to the dressing rooms. That's when he saw Marinette.
"How do I look, Adrien?" she asked.
Adrien's heart was beating like crazy.
He cleared his throat, "You look wonderful."
"Okay," Chloé said, "Everyone's got an outfit. Let's pay and get out of here. I'm starving!"
"I'll be paying for your dress, Mari," Adrien said.
"I couldn't ask you to do that."
"Mari, you're part of the show. I, no, my father insists."
"Well, when you put it that way..."
"Everyone else," Chloé said, "I'll be paying for your clothes."
"That's very generous of you, Chloé," Kagami said.
"Well, it's easy when it's not my money."
"Did you...borrow another of Audrey's credit cards again?" Zoé asked.
"Um...maybe," she replied, a devious smile on her face.
Time passes...
The day of the fashion show had finally arrived. Audrey left before the rest of the family. She swaggered past the crowds in her sparkling gold dress, black faux fur jacket, wide hat, and dark sunglasses.
"Audrey," Nadja called out, "What's in style this year?"
"Nothing you're wearing, that's for sure. Glitter is never out of style. Now go bother someone else. I have to make sure I have the best seat in the house."
The rest of the Bourgeois family soon followed. Before the sisters got out of the limo, Luka stopped them.
"There's something I should've told you. Without going into too much detail, our dad is a bit...infamous. Not in a bad way, mind you, but still. So we'd appreciate if you could steer the subject away if anyone starts to ask certain questions."
"Leave it to me, snake charmer," Chloé replied with a wink.
"Good day to you, M. Mayor," Nadja said, "You're looking dapper as ever, I see."
"Thank you, Nadja. One does try, after all."
"These can't be your daughters. They grow up so fast."
"They do, don't they?"
Chloé and Zoé walked up in their new dresses. Chloé wore yellow and black, while Zoé wore pink and black. Chloé motioned for someone to come forward. Luka and Juleka walked up to join them. Juleka had her hair pinned back so her face was no longer half covered.
"You two look very familiar," Nadja said.
"This girl will be joining Adrien Agreste on the catwalk before you know it, Nadja," Chloé said, "She's the next big thing."
"What about you?" Nadja asked Luka.
Chloé grabbed his arm, "He's my plus one, that's all. Isn't he handsome? Naturally, I picked out his clothes."
"Oh, uh, of course," Nadja said, "Well, don't let me hold you up. We'll talk later, I'm sure."
"Thank you," Luka whispered.
"No, thank you."
Kagami and Tomoe arrived in their special car.
Nadja waved at Kagami and said, "Always nice to see you, Tsurugi-san."
Tomoe barely acknowledged her, "Hmm, yes."
It was now time to Marinette, Alya, and Nino to walk inside.
"Mlle. Blogger and her beau, so proud to see you here."
"Thanks, Nadja, but the real star here tonight is my best friend Marinette. She designed a clothing article that impressed Gabriel Agreste of all people."
"I realize that the Style Queen can make or break you, but either way, it's a great accomplishment."
"Thank you very much, Nadja," Marinette said, trying not to sound nervous.
As soon as they walked inside, they could hear a screeching sound. It was Audrey, of course, complaining about the seating arrangements.
Zoé leaned over to Chloé and whispered, "I was going to say it's too bad Sabrina couldn't be here, but now..."
Chloé gave a grave nod in response.
"What do you MEAN I'm not in the front row?! Gabriel wouldn't even be where he is now if is wasn't for me!"
"I'm just following my instructions, Audrey," Nathalie replied in a calm voice.
"Well that's not good enough! You're fired!"
Nathalie began cleaning her glasses, "I don't work for you. I work for M. Agreste."
"We'll see about this!" she snapped, pulling out her cellphone.
After about a minute with no result, she shoved her phone back into her huge purse.
"I take it that I'm not fired then?"
Chloé and Zoé couldn't help but snicker.
Audrey was practically snarling, "Where is Gabriel?!"
Nathalie sighed, "I'll go look for him."
She quickly drove back to the mansion and joined Gabriel in the evil lair.
"She's foaming at the mouth, sir."
Papillon gave a sinister grin, "Perfect."
Back at the show, Audrey was berating everyone and everything.
"No respect for someone of MY caliber! All these tacky clothes and cheap décor! And you! You're absolutely useless, Archie!"
Chloé was getting irritated, but calmly said, "Don't blame him for something he can't control."
"I knew you'd stick your nose where it doesn't belong, Caitlin. You're here as a seat warmer and nothing more! That goes double for you, Zita!"
The Akuma finally reached the fashion show. Anyone who saw it could only look on in horror. It possessed the rose adorning Audrey's hat.
"Bonjour, Style Queen. Je m'appelle Le Papillon."
"So you're the one constantly turning people into monsters? Well I'm pissed off enough that I don't care what happens. Just so long as I look fabulous."
"Of course, Style Queen. I shall give you the power to turn people into gold, thus making them worth your time. You'll even be able to turn into gold dust so that they can never touch you. All I ask in return is that you give me any Miraculous you find."
"You mean the tacky trinkets these so-called heroes wear? Consider it done."
"I leave you to it, Style Queen."
A wave of dark energy left Audrey now made of gold, but still with dark-tinted sunglasses, now sporting a scepter and spiky crown. With a psychotic smile on her face, she went back outside to address the press.
"Attention, you pathetic Parisians! Now I truly am the Style Queen!"
She began zapping random people with her staff, turning them into gold statues. She returned to the main room.
"I shall turn everyone in Paris to gold. Oh, how I love it. Oh, Avery!"
André turned to the girls, "Run!"
The Style Queen began firing beams throughout the area. Luka came to a halt.
"...no."
The girls turned to see that Juleka had been hit. So had Placide the bodyguard. They then gasped as they saw that André had also been hit.
"As much as I want to attack her head on," Chloé thought, "That wouldn't help anyone."
"Luka, we can't stay here," Zoé said.
"She's right," Chloé said, "There's only one thing that can save her and daddy and everyone else. We need to call the heroes."
On the other side of the building, Marinette and Alya ran one way, while Adrien and Nino ran off in another.
"This is definitely gonna be a tough fight," Adrien said.
"You ain't kidding, mec."
They snuck out the back to transform. As soon as they ascended to the roof, Marinette and Alya came out the back door and likewise transformed.
"We're gonna need everyone for this fight," Ladybird said, "Lucky Charm! A little wooden carving of a bee?"
The sisters, meanwhile, were also heading for a back door.
"So how exactly are we supposed to call the heroes?" Luka asked.
"I have a feeling some of them are already here," Zoé said, "But they'll need help."
"There's nothing for it, Zoé. We don't have a choice. Luka, can you keep a secret?"
"Like you wouldn't believe. Why?"
The sisters transformed into their hero costumes.
"You two are the bee and the eagle? I saw you during the zombie attack."
"We haven't been superheroes for very long," Apireine said, "But we know we have to help. I know we don't exactly know each other all that well, but...I trust you."
"Does anyone else know?"
"Just Adrien," Bateleur answered.
"This is a quite a surprise but...I won't tell a soul. I won't even tell Jules."
"Thank you," Apireine replied.
"Come on," Bateleur said, "Let's join the fight."
She flew off into the sky.
"Hey, uh, before you go..."
Apireine looked confused, "Yeah?"
Luka reached out and kissed her hand, "Thanks for everything."
"Oh...yeah...uh...you're welcome."
She then flew off to join the rest of the team.
Luka sighed, "What have you gotten yourself into?"
The sister duo could see the crowd going crazy, with several policemen trying to control them. There was one cop that was standing by their car.
"Isn't that Roger?" Apireine thought, "Why isn't he doing anything? Wait...oh no."
Roger was leaning against his car, his head in his hands. Next to him was a gold statue that used to be Sabrina.
"I'll make her pay for this!"
Meanwhile, as soon as the Style Queen saw that she was outnumbered...
"Now there are six of these annoying superheroes? Utterly ridiculous!"
She turned into gold dust and floated away on the wind.
"She's probably trying to ambush us," Tortank said.
"Yeah, but she could be anywhere now," Matou Noir said.
"We have no choice," Ladybird said, "We'll have to split up and find her before she hurts any more people. Tortank and Zorrua, you head that way."
"Copy," Zorrua said, running off.
"Chaton, you're with me in this direction. Apireine, you and Bateleur...well, you know, search everywhere else."
"Thanks for being specific!" Apireine called as Ladybird flew away.
"Do you think she might've gone somewhere specific?" Bateleur asked.
"You mean like back to the hotel? I suppose it's possible. We might as well check there."
The duo flew to Le Grand Paris.
"I'll check around the actual building, while you check the surrounding buildings. Meet me back here if you don't find anything."
"Copy that," Bateleur replied as she flew off.
Apireine flew around the building, but saw nothing out of the ordinary. She then landed on the roof to get another look at the surrounding area. All of a sudden, she got chill up her spine.
"Don't move. Turn around slowly, hero."
There she was: the Style Queen. She was pointing her scepter at Apireine.
"I'd like to make a generous proposal. I can tell you play by your own rules. You've clearly got a good head on your shoulders...for now. You obviously have good fashion sense...to an extent. Perhaps we're not so different."
"I'm nothing like you. You were a monster before you got akumatized."
She gave a sinister snicker, "I chose my path a long time ago, and I regret nothing. What does being a hero really get you? One slip up and the people will turn on you, so why bother?"
"Because it's the right thing to do."
She lightly smacked the hero in the head with her scepter.
"Here's the real truth. There are a little over 2 million people in this city, and the sole purpose of those teeming masses is to lift the few exceptional people onto their shoulders. You, me, we're exceptional."
"There's her favorite word: exceptional. Anything that meets her high standards is exceptional. Which means she's never attributed that word to anything I do."
Bateleur had spotted Apireine and Style Queen on the roof, but she hid on their balcony and listened to the conversation.
"Normal people struggle to have everything they want, while the world forces them to choose. We have the power of gods, and gods don't have to choose. We take. You're strong enough to have it all, but you're too weak to take it. Join me, and together we'll take over this tragic city. We just have to get Le Papillon out of the picture."
The Lair
"Why that treacherous harpy! She thinks she can betray me?! I gave her that power!"
"Are you really surprised that Audrey would bite the hand that feeds her?"
The Confrontation
"Le Papillon could easily take your power away at any time."
"That's where you and your power come in. We can rule together, or I can turn you into a pile of gold...which would make you more valuable than you've ever been, I'm sure."
"What about my partner?"
"Personally, I think that glorified chicken is worthless, but if it matters to you, then she has once chance: join us, or die."
Apireine hesitated.
"I don't have time to waste. I have other plans. Going once! Going twice!"
"You know what? You're right. I am better than these people. I've already come up with a plan. I'll call the other heroes over here. I'll paralyze Ladybird, while you turn the others to gold. Then we can take her Miraculous, and Le Papillon won't be able to stop us."
Style Queen had a sinister smile on her face, "Perfect."
"Hide back there. The signal will be when I use my power."
As the sun was already starting to set, Style Queen seemed to merge with the shadows.
She used the communicator inside her spinning top, "Ladybird, get the others over to Le Grand Paris fast. Style Queen is on her way, and we'll need everyone to stop her."
"On our way!"
In about a minute, the team was assembled.
"Is she close by?" Matou Noir asked.
"Very close. Venom!"
Style Queen reappeared behind Apireine. The Bee girl was looking right at Ladybird, when Bateleur flew between the two of them. She placed her hands on her sister's shoulders.
"Please don't do this," she whispered to her sister.
"Get out of my way."
"You're better than this."
"What's the problem, Queen Bee?" Style Queen snapped, "If your subordinate is in the way, make her move, or I'll make her my personal lawn ornament."
"I heard everything," she continued, "Don't let her manipulate you."
She leaned in and whispered, "You know, for someone who wants to be an actress, you have a lot to learn."
"...what?"
Apireine winked, "It's showtime."
She shoved her away and shouted, "Now!"
Style Queen raised her scepter, but then...
*JAB*
...she was hit by Venom and became paralyzed.
"You betrayed me," she growled before she couldn't talk.
"How could I betray you when I was never on your side to begin with?"
She reached up and took the gold rose from the crown.
"Do your thing, Matou," she said as she threw him the rose.
"With pleasure," he replied, catching the rose, "Cataclysm!"
Ladybird looked at Apireine, and then at the wooden bee she had created.
"So that's what it meant," she thought with a smile.
"Ready, my Lady?"
"Huh? Oh, yes, of course."
They fist bumped, "Miraculous!"
Once everything was back to normal, Ladybird walked over to Apireine and offered a fist bump. It was returned, by her and Bateleur.
"What am I doing here? I should be at the fashion show! One of you useless heroes. I demand you take me back there at once!"
Apiriene spoke up, "Mme. Bourgeois, that might mess up your gorgeous hair and dress. It would be wiser for you to call for a ride."
"Yes, you have a point. Where am I?"
"The roof of Le Grand Paris."
"In that case, I'll do everything myself. That way it gets done. Thanks for nothing!"
"You guys can go," Bateleur said, "We'll keep an eye on her."
Ladybird nodded, "Until next time, team."
The four heroes ran off. Apiereine and Bateleur stayed on the roof until they saw Audrey get to the street and scream at the driver that came to pick her up.
"The Agreste fashion show, and make it snappy!"
The duo then flew back to the fashion show.
The Lair
"Even the Style Queen failed," Papillon stated.
"She wasn't worth it," Nathalie said, "You heard her. She wanted to backstab you. Well, now that that's over, I'll be getting back to the show. It's not going to run itself. Unless of course you're going to reschedule it."
"Of course not. In fact, I'll be there myself to ensure things go according to plan."
"You will?"
"If there was ever a reason to go out in public, my dear Nathalie, then it's definitely this."
The city
Apireine and Bateleur landed in the same alley that they left from. Luka was still there waiting for their return. They de-transformed and headed for the restroom.
"So you won?" Luka asked.
"Unanimously," Chloé said, "Excuse us."
As the sisters looked in the mirror, Chloé was singing a song under her breath.
"Ooh, la-la-la! We love designer!"
"You're gonna get that song stuck in my head," Zoé said.
"I can't help it. It's practically my theme song."
"What's my theme song?"
"Good question. I'll think of something."
"Just don't pick something with the words eagle or fly in it. That's too obvious."
They walked out and headed back for the main room.
"How do we look, music man?"
"You both look amazing. While you were in there, I checked on Jules. She's perfectly fine."
Chloé's eyes went wide, "Pardon me for a minute."
She walked as fast as she could outside. She saw Roger hugging Sabrina. She breathed a sigh of relief. Sabrina noticed her and waved. Chloé waved back, and then made a heart shape with her hands. That's when a certain vehicle pulled up.
"Don't you know how to drive?! You're fired!"
André rushed out to greet Audrey and pay the driver.
"Audrey, I'm happy to see you back to your old self."
"Spare me, Alexei. Let's get this show started."
Chloé grabbed André's arm and led him back inside. Zoé came outside and took his other arm.
"Now what about my seat?" Audrey demanded.
Before Nathalie could say anything, Gabriel came out from behind the curtains, much to everyone's surprise. Nadja was already on the scene.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the first public appearance of Gabriel Agreste since the passing of his beloved wife and famous actress/model Emilie Graham de Vanily."
"Père? I didn't know you were coming."
Gabriel ignored Adrien and walked over to Audrey.
He gave a bow, "My sincerest apologies, Audrey. I can't believe you had to endure such misfortune."
As he kissed her hand, she gave a satisfied smirk, "Well, seeing as how you're practically indebted to me, I'll look the other way this time. Let's start the show already!"
"By your command, my queen. Come, Nathalie."
"I can see where Adrien got at least some of his charm," Marinette thought, "But when he does it, it feels sincere. From his father it feels so forced."
As Adrien followed suite, Chloé grabbed Juleka and followed close behind. Luka looked a bit concerned, but Zoé gave him an awkward thumbs up. Backstage, Gabriel looked lost in thought, while Nathalie was looking at her tablet.
"Well, if it isn't Gabriel Agreste. You're my favorite practitioner of haute couture."
"What do you want, Mlle. Bourgeois?"
"I brought you a brand new model. Just stick her in anywhere, as long as the clothes are flattering."
"We don't have time for this," Nathalie said.
"The Style Queen is here, the press is here, and Adrien's new hat is here. What could garner even more attention than an up and coming model? I've taught her the basics. She won't let you down. You don't want your show to hit any snags now, do you?"
Gabriel gave her a look, "What are you implying?"
"I mean, there was already an Akuma attack. It would be a shame if something else was to go wrong."
"Are you threatening me?"
"It's not a threat. It's a promise."
"I'm getting rather tired of of this song and dance of yours."
"That's too bad. I'm always ready for an encore performance."
Nathalie had been engrossed in the schedule, but when she actually got a look at Juleka, she gave her a strange look.
"You look very familiar," Nathalie said.
"Mom was a singer for a while," Juleka said.
Nathalie seemed to realize something. She whispered something in Gabriel's ear.
He gave an unsettling smile, "Well, Chloé, it seems your request shall be granted. What is your name, girl?"
"Uh, Juleka Couffaine."
"If you'll follow me, I shall assist you in your endeavor to become a model."
Before she walked away, Juleka whispered to Chloé, "Thank you."
Chloé returned to her seat to watch the rest of the show. She was mostly lost in thought until Juleka finally walked out onto the stage.
She went over Chloé's lessons in her head, "Heel to toe. Head high. Not too close to the edge of the stage. Not too elaborate of a spin."
"Pulled it off without a hitch," Chloé whispered to Zoé.
Miles away...
Several of the other students were watching the fashion show on TV. When Juleka began to strut down the catwalk, Rose started to clap.
"YAY! You made it, Juleka!"
Even more miles away...
A man with purple hair and clad in leather was relaxing while playing the piano. The woman he shared the room with was changing the channels when she caught the fashion show.
"Oh, look," she said, "Gabriel Agreste finally came out of hiding for his fashion show."
"Now that is a surprise, right, Fang?"
Fang was an enormous saltwater crocodile that was relaxing in a large bathtub. He let out a bellow in response. The man was now walking over to pick up his electric guitar. He joined the woman on the sofa.
"Wait a minute," she said, still looking at the TV, "Is that...?"
"What's the matter?"
"That IS her! Look who's modeling on stage!"
His eyes went wide, "Juleka?! You little rock and roller, you made it!"
The show
At last, it was Adrien's turn to model Marinette's hat. The show wrapped up after that. Adrien and Juleka stood on-stage again, and Gabriel was standing between them. He walked up to Audrey.
"Well, Audrey, what's the verdict?"
"Most of it was passable, I'd say. A lot of it was your usual work. Is this tall girl a new model?"
"She is indeed."
"Not much to look at, but she knows what she's doing."
Juleka didn't know how to react. Adrien gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
"There was one thing that stood out the most. That hat Adrien's wearing. It doesn't look like one of yours, Gabriel."
"It was in fact the winner of a contest I held at the local lycée. Mlle. Dupain-Cheng is the designer."
Adrien motioned over to her. Marinette came closer so Adrien could hand her the hat.
"You mean this quiet girl next to Adrien?"
"Oui, Mme. Bourgeois," she replied, "That's me."
She handed her hat to Audrey. The Style Queen looked the hat over. Her expression was hard to read.
"Is she going to snap at Marinette?" Chloé thought.
"I love it! It's new! It's fresh! Not nearly as messy as glitter."
Tom and Sabine came forward and hugged Marinette.
"Who are they?"
"You mean my parents?"
"Young lady, here's your first piece of advice. Get rid of them."
"Excuse me?"
"You have talent. You can't have your family hanging over you like an old, dead goose stifling your creativity."
Marinette couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"Now look here -"
"Yes, of course! I shall come directly to the point. Young lady, I insist you come back with me to New York."
"What?!"
It was hard to tell who yelled it first, Marinette or Chloé.
"You want her to go to New York?" Chloé asked through gritted teeth, "You've never even taken me with you."
"She's an artist, Chlorine. She made this spectacular hat. She's exceptional."
"I'm your own daughter. I've done lots of things to please you, but you've never called me exceptional."
"The only exceptional thing about you is your mother. That goes double for you, Zoology."
Chloé walked past Audrey and over to Nadja Chamack.
"Nadja Chamack, would you like a real story? The only thing that can possibly top both a Gabriel fashion show and an Akuma attack? How about this? Undeniable proof that Audrey Bourgeois is not just a horrible person, but a terrible mother."
Audrey's head snapped, "What did you say, you awful girl?"
"You heard me. You've treated me like I'm lower than dirt the moment I was born! You were never there for me. I was raised by daddy, and Armand the butler, and Mme. Bustier, and heck, let's just add everyone else in my life that isn't you."
"Why you little ingrate! Angus here wouldn't be mayor if not for me. You wouldn't have anything if not for me!"
"And as for Marinette here, yeah, you like her work now, but one slip up and she's gone. You'll just move the goal posts. The only person who can meet your impossible standards is yourself. The worst moment in my life was when you caught me yelling at Sabrina and actually gave me your approval. I'm just glad that Zoé here barely ever had to interact with you. You might've uglified her."
Audrey had moved closer to her, "You ungrateful little brat! How DARE you talk to me that way? I am your mother!"
"No. You're. Not! You're a nasty, ugly, old witch that everybody hates!"
Their eyes were locked, neither moving. Chloé had a small realization that she was now taller than Audrey.
"Feels like only yesterday she was a larger than life monster."
Just then, Audrey raised a hand. Chloé braced herself for a slap, but as Audrey's hand was about to connect, some else grabbed her arm.
"Don't you DARE touch her," Zoé growled.
Audrey snorted, "Finally grew a spine, eh, Zucchini?"
"My name is Zoé!" she declared, shoving Audrey's hand away, "Her name is Chloé! His name is André! What are you, stupid?"
"Excusez-moi!? Your sister is a bad influence, I see. Without me, Chloé and André would be nothing, but you, you've always been nothing!"
"The truth is, Audrey, that at the end of the day, I'll have my family. You have no one. So the only one here who's nothing is YOU!"
Audrey was seething, "You want to take what I was going to give her? I'll gladly oblige!"
André stepped in now, "Audrey...that is...ENOUGH!"
She sneered, "You're too soft on these riff-raff."
"Shut up! I won't allow you to treat my daughters this way."
"That one isn't your daughter."
"She's as good as! I've been a fool for a long time. Ours was never a happy marriage. When you forced me to give up my dream of being a film director, I went along with it for two reasons. One, because I knew it would be a more reliable source of income for our however unlikely children. Two, because my father was a politician. I never thought of following in his footsteps, but when it seemed I had no alternative, I thought, at least I can use my position to make a difference. Be better than he was. When you had a child, I tried to get along with you for her benefit, but I was so busy trying to provide for Chloé, that I was blind to the fact that all you did was make her miserable. It was bad enough when you kept verbally abusing the girls, but now you're trying to physically abuse them as well. I'm going to do what I should've done a long time ago. I want a divorce! I have my job as mayor and as hotel manager, but I will always make time for Chloé and Zoé."
"As if I'd ever want either of them."
"And I'm going to make sure that Zoé stays here."
"You can take that up with what's-his-name in New York."
"AND just to make sure you can't ever get your filthy claws on her, I'm going to formally adopt her. Henceforth, she is a Bourgeois."
Audrey rolled her eyes, "I've grown bored with all this. I'm leaving."
"Don't call me, Audrey. I'll call you."
"Ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!"
With that, the Style Queen was gone.
Chloé was shocked, "Papa, you completely told her off."
"Yes, and about time, too."
Chloé started to tear up and gave her father a tight hug, which he gladly returned. They then held out their arms for Zoé. She was also starting to cry as she joined in on the hug.
"Girls, she may technically be your mother, but she was never your mom."
Zoé spoke up, "Can I call you Papa?"
He smiled, "Of course."
"As if you even need to ask," Chloé said with a smile.
Adrien was going to ask Gabriel what he thought about all this, but the man had already left without a word. Marinette noticed and reached out to give his hand a squeeze. He looked a bit surprised, but he smiled and gave her hand a kiss. He then let go of her hand and walked forward, a frown once again on his face. He was now standing next to the Bourgeois family. Chloé saw the look on his face, and the fact that Gabriel had disappeared.
"Come on, Adrichoux, you look like a kicked puppy."
They let him join in on the hug. Luka was hugging Juleka.
"I knew you'd be great."
"Thanks, Luka. Do you think he saw me?"
Just then, her phone got some text messages.
Rose: You were so beautiful!
Mom: I'm so proud of you!
Dad: Rock and Roll!
Luka saw the messages, "Does that answer your question?"
Later
Armand the butler and Marlena Césaire were waiting outside the hotel. They saw everything on the news. André came up in the limo with the girls.
He looked at his two most prominent staff members, "Tell everyone in the hotel that the Style Queen is no longer allowed on the premises. If any of her belongings are still here, throw them out onto the pavement."
They both smile and said, "Yes, Sir!"
Everyone was now gathered in the dining room at the hotel.
"Attention, everyone," André announced, "I propose a toast. Here's to us: a family."
"Here's to Juleka's first step into the world of modeling," Zoé added.
"Here's to Adrien not putting up with his flake of a father and instead spending time with us," Chloé chimed in.
"Here's to Marinette and her amazing hat," Adrien said.
Marinette now spoke up, "Here's to the fall of the Style Queen!"
A loud cheer went all through the room. Some time after that, as everyone was finishing dinner, despite being on the top floor, a loud scream was heard from the ground level. The sisters went outside to get a better look. Audrey was making a scene when she discovered her belongings on the pavement. Roger Raincomprix showed up to make her leave. As the sisters saw her leave the vicinity, they hugged each other.
As they walked back inside, Chloé said, "Hey, DJ! This is a party, right? How about some music?"
"As a matter of fact," Nino said, "I stopped at home to get some effects."
"Make it something we can dance to!" Zoé requested.
The next day
Marinette fell asleep quickly last night. She eventually woke up and got dressed, but she hadn't thought about what she should do today. That's when it happened.
"Marinette," Sabine called.
"Yes, Maman?"
"Marinette," Sabine said again, now in a more serious voice, "It's the Style Queen."
"She's here?"
Marinette joined her parents in the main store. Sure enough, Audrey was there.
"This is where you live?" she said with a sneer.
"I find it very cozy," Marinette answered.
"There you are! Despite that incident yesterday, I haven't forgotten what I said. I insist you come with me to New York."
"Audrey, she's still only 16," Tom said.
"Irrelevant!"
"Aren't you a bit busy, what with your divorce?" Sabine asked.
"Inconsequential!"
Marinette didn't know what to say at first. She looked at her parents.
"We don't like it," Tom said, "But we don't want to step on your dream."
"We just want what's best for you, sweetie," Sabine said, "We'll respect your decision."
Marinette got an idea and made a video phone call.
"What do you want?" Chloé said, quite confused.
"Get Zoé, because I want you both to see this."
At that moment, Adrien got out of the car in a nearby spot. Placide gave him a nod of encouragement. Adrien was holding a single red rose to give Marinette. He was about to walk inside the bakery when he noticed the Style Queen. Audrey noticed the screen.
"You should mind the company you keep, Dupain-Cheng. Now what's your answer?"
She took a breath, "Audrey, I respect the fact that your job is influential and perhaps even a bit difficult, but I don't like anything about you."
"What did you just say?"
"I am saying that you're a horrible person, and I wouldn't go anywhere with you if you paid me!"
"You underestimate my power. Think about what you're saying."
"I've thought about it plenty. If that's how you do your job, then I want nothing to do with it. I'll do my best to succeed on my own, without your toxic influence."
"You're picking up bad habits from those monsters."
"I don't need them to tell me that you're a has been."
"WHAT?! Why you little -"
Tom and Sabine stepped in front of Marinette.
"That's enough, Audrey," Tom said in a stern voice.
"I think it's time for you to go," Sabine said, glaring daggers.
For a split second, Audrey looked nervous, but composed herself.
"So be it, baker girl. You've lost your last chance. Once I walk out that door, my offer is off the table."
"Don't let the door hit you on the way out, Audrey."
Audrey was barely restraining herself. She stormed out a got in the waiting car.
"To the airport. NOW!"
Marinette could hear clapping coming from her phone.
"Brava, Marinette!" Zoé said.
"I'd say that was worth the price of admission," Chloé added.
"I'm glad you enjoyed the show," Marinette said, "I knew you would. Talk to you later."
"Adieu!" they said as the call ended.
"I'll be in my room," Marinette said, grabbing her phone.
Once she was upstairs, Adrien entered the store.
"Adrien? What a pleasant surprise," Tom said.
"I saw what just happened. That was incredible! You two are great parents."
"Oh, how you talk," Sabine said, "What a lovely flower. Go right upstairs."
"Thank you so much."
*Knock knock*
"Come in!"
"Hey, Mari."
"Adrien? I didn't think you'd be out and about so soon after the show."
"I always try to be careful. Besides, people are more interested in the fact that Gabriel Agreste came out of self-imposed exile. Pour vou."
"Oh, thank you. A red rose? So soon?"
"Well, uh...I had brought it just as a present since everything happened so fast yesterday, but now..."
"But now?"
"I'd like to treat you to lunch."
"You mean like...a date?"
"Yes."
"Now? I mean... What about our promise? What about the implications, and the complications?"
"I know I'm kind of, what's the phrase? Jumping the gun. It's just that, after all that's happened lately, like my father coming out of hiding, and seeing you turn down the Style Queen. It made me think... What if you had left? Audrey is a selfish woman. My father refuses to move on from the death of my mother. I don't want to end up like either of them. I don't want to live with regret. If you're worried, we can keep this a secret."
"Wouldn't that bother you?"
"Of course it would, but on the other hand, I think of it like having a secret identity. It's not really for me. It's to keep you safe."
"You've been thinking about this a lot, haven't you?"
"Call me crazy, but yes."
She placed the rose on her desk, and then took his hands in hers.
"I'd love to go out with you. So what's the plan? I'm good at keeping secrets, you know."
He shrugged, "How about steamed hams?"
Marinette burst out laughing. Adrien starting laughing as well.
"Seriously though, we can just eat here. No one can see us on my balcony. Just don't, you know, be all dramatic and stand near the edge."
Adrien nodded, "Works for me."
Placide went to pick up their meal. They had settled for pizza. After explaining the situation to her parents, Tom and Sabine understood completely.
"It's thoughtful of you to keep things quiet, Adrien," Tom said.
"It's quite understandable, considering your position. You don't need to tell everyone...especially not your father," Sabine said.
"Believe me, I'll tell him in due time. I don't care if he approves or not."
"Why wouldn't he approve?" Marinette asked.
"A lot of people may know you now, Mari," Adrien explained, "But my father is superficial. He doesn't think anyone is good enough for me. You've heard all of our stories. He doesn't like any of my friends."
Placide came back with the food.
"Thank you so much," Adrien said, "Oh, Tom, Sabine, you haven't formally met my bodyguard. This is Placide."
"Nice to meet you, M. Placide," Sabine said, "Since you have to stay, why not let us make you something to eat?"
"That's appreciated," he replied.
"You kids run along," Tom said, "We've got work to do."
Adrien and Marinette went to her balcony and placed the pizza and drinks on the table. Adrien held out the chair for Marinette.
"Allow me, My Lady."
"Merci, My Prince."
As soon as she sat down, she had a thought, "My Lady? That's either a strange coincidence, or..."
"Thinking about something?" Adrien asked.
"What do you think of the heroes?"
"I'm glad they're around to help."
"Do you think any of them are...well, attractive?"
"I don't know if I've really thought about it."
"Not even Ladybird?"
"Well now that you mention it, I think she's very smart and very pretty. She reminds me of someone."
Marinette felt a bit nervous, "Oh yeah? Uh...who could that be?"
He smiled at her, "You."
"What? Me? Oh, don't be silly! I mean, you don't see me saying Matou Noir reminds me of you."
"Does he though?"
"Well, maybe a little. I heard he likes bad jokes."
"My jokes aren't that bad, are they?"
Marinette nodded.
"Ouch."
"I still like them, though. It's a miracle you even have a sense of humor."
"You mean because my father is a sourpuss? I agree. Anyway, I'm not saying you ARE Ladybird. I just meant that I think you're pretty and smart LIKE Ladybird. In fact, I think you're the most beautiful woman in the whole world."
"Really?"
"No, but I don't mind lying if it'll get me somewhere."
Marinette flicked his nose.
"Ow, that barely hurt."
"You think you're SO funny."
"Of course I'm funny. I know the secret to become a good comedian."
"Really?"
"You have to have good diction. See, you put 15 marbles in your mouth and talk. Every day you take out one marble. Once you've lost all your marbles, you're a pro!"
Marinette was trying not to laugh.
"Oh, Adrien."
"Yes?"
"Close your eyes and open your mouth."
He did so with a smirk on his face. Marinette shoved a slice of pizza into his mouth. She then went ahead and laughed. Adrien swallowed the pizza and also laughed. He then leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"No one makes me laugh like you, Mari."
At that moment, Apireine and Bateleur flew high overhead.
"Nothing so relaxing as flying," Apireine said.
"Yeah. Hey, look down there. Adrien and Marinette are having lunch together at her house. I think they're on a date. Isn't that sweet?"
"Big deal."
"Are you jealous?"
"I can see Adrien more often than Marinette."
"I meant because you don't have a special someone."
"I do, actually."
"Oh, yeah? Who is it?"
"Me! Oh, and you, I guess."
"Gee, thanks. Anyway, you shouldn't scoff. Love is a many splendid thing."
"What are you, a poetry book? Look, I'm glad Adrien is happy, but I'm in no hurry to fall prey to...love."
"Things are bound to change."
"Bah! You'll never catch me falling in love."
Meanwhile...
A large, bald man was looking through the contacts on his cellphone, while at the same time looking for something to watch on TV. Just then, his phone rang.
"Bob Roth. Well now, Jagged Stone. My favorite client. What can I do for you?"
"'Ello, Bob. I think it's about time for me to visit Paris again."