"I'm definitely confident Ladybug, Cat Noir and the new Zodiac Team will definitely take back all the Miraculous that Monarch stole." Xavier said to a reporter, "In fact, I believe they've already started, I saw Pigella running by on my way to the park."
And then the camera turned to XY and Bob. "Uh, Hawkmoth-" Bob waved his hand to tell him that he's not called that anymore. "N-No, I mean the villain is Shadow Moth." Bob shook his head as he pointed to his head to XY. "Uh-huh. Right. Duh. He calls himself King now." He said, which made Bob write the name on a card as XY read it. "Monarch?" He asked in surprise.
The camera then changed to Mr. Damocles, "Well, when I was re-akumatized, Ladybug and her team saved me. But no, I didn't have any Miraculous. I didn't have any on me at first. But that was when Dragold used a special power to extract the powers of a Miraculous right out of me and reclaim Pigella's Miraculous. I was surprised to even have that power somehow." He explained before giving a thumbs up. "And still I say, 'Good job, heroes'."
The camera then changed to Chloe and Sabrina, which was as encouraging as the last few were comments as Sabrina was holding some boxes while Chloe crossed her arms. "Ladybug? She's turned Paris over to supervillains and only got one Miraculous back."
"Don't you mean two? I mean, the Rabbit Miraculous is also reclaimed, Chloe. We did hear about it in class." Sabrina reminded before Chloe turned to her with a growl.
Chloe then turned back to the camera "And those new heroes, mmph, they're just making things worse. That would never have happened with Queen Bee." She scoffed.
"And we're back on set of Leading Questions, Honest Answers with our experts," Nadja said as she sat at a meeting table with Bob, Alec, and . "You've heard the people of Paris. Monarch is more powerful than ever and five new heroes have joined them. And right now, they manage to regain two Miraculous from him. So the question on everybody's mind is, 'Are Ladybug, Cat Noir, and this Zodiac Team the heroes we need?'"
"The media has paralyzed us with fear," Alec started before smiling. "But what we need to help them get closer into defeating Monarch is more love and kindness. People need to follow their dreams and have more hope. That way, we wouldn't be feeling all these negative emotions." He explained while spreading his arms out. "Come with me now. Everyone just love one another-"
Bob then interrupted him. "If you ask me, there's too much talk about the Miraculous heroes and not enough talk about my son's-" He then stopped himself when he realized what he was about to say. "I mean that wonderful indie artist XY's new album."
"Thank you, Bob," Nadja said before turning to . "And you . What's your take on all this?"
"Stay peachy!" Mr. Banana answered.
Nadja just nodded, "It seems we have many different ideas so to help, I've asked one of our new heroes to join us, please welcome Central Dragold!" Nadja said while gesturing to the side of the stage.
The crowd cheered when Dragold walked up and waved, "Thank you Nadja, and hello to you people of Paris." Dragold greeted, "Now as you know, after Monarch's first appearance it was believed that he took all the Miraculous, but mine and the rest of my team's were safely away from the others,"
"Did Ladybug hide these Miraculous as a contingency plan?" Nadja asked. "Because we've never seen you or the other Zodiac heroes before Monarch."
Dragold shook his head, "No, Ladybug didn't even know our miraculouses were in the city, it took some time but we managed to get our powers figured out just before Ikari Gozen's attack on the city weeks after Monarch suddenly went off the grid." He explained, "We think that during that time he somehow found a way to transfer the miraculous powers to his akumatized villains."
"Like how Ikari Gozen suddenly cloned herself?" Alec asked.
"Exactly, and just recently Dark Owl gained the power of Jubilation. But don't worry my friends and I can still work around this." Dragold assured, "Using the technique of Miraculous Extraction I can draw the Miraculous power and the Miraculous itself from the Akumatized object and away from Monarch."
"Wow, that's amazing," Nadja said with a smile before giving a concerned look. "But, aren't you worried that Monarch might try and steal them again?"
"Not to worry, we placed them in the custody of their original heroes and the extraction erased Monarch's knowledge of their identities meaning they should be safe," Dragold said, "However, we also learned that through an Alliance ring, Monarch was able to track Ladybug's movements and came close to discovering her identity had it not been for the fact she was borrowing someone else's."
"Are you saying that Monarch somehow hacked into the Alliance rings?" Bob asked with a brow.
"Much more than that, I and the other heroes suspect that someone inside of Agreste or Tsurugi Industries is actually Monarch or at the very least working for him and relaying this information back to him," Dragold stated.
"So you believe that there's a mole in the Alliance working for Monarch? How did you guess?" Alec asked.
"Because when we transform, our phones and other items are locked away from anything we do, including our stepping counting, but when Ladybug transformed the Alliance still managed to track her steps, this definitely implies that Monarch did something to the rings to work and track someone even when they're holding a Miraculous," Dragold explained with a serious expression. "Ladybug was lucky that she was holding someone else's ring, otherwise, Monarch would've found out her identity a lot sooner, and until we figure out a way to defeat him, my team will avoid using Alliance."
"Then it's best you avoid the Alliance stores. Because nearly everyone in Paris is wearing an Alliance ring." Nadja informed.
Dragold nodded before turning to the screen, "While I won't encourage everyone to not use Alliance anymore I will ask you to use caution." He said with seriousness, "Now that we know Monarch has access to Alliance, there's no telling how else he'll use it. So to any and all Miraculous Holders, both former and current, I sent this message to cease all use of Alliance. Because whether you have a Miraculous or not, Monarch is always watching. The Zodiac Team is here to stay and help Ladybug and Cat Noir reclaim the Miraculous, one by one. And once we have them all, we will defeat Monarch once and for all." He declared with his fist up in confidence.
The three news crew all clapped in applause for Dragold's speech while the audience cheered while Bob slowly clapped as well before Nadja turned to the camera.
"You heard it heard first people Paris, even with Monarch watching us through Alliance our heroes won't let it stop them from defeating him." Nadja said with a smile, "We'll be right back after these messages." She finished.
As Daniel got ready for school, he noticed his mother, Tara, was looking at her Alliance ring solemnly, "Hey mom, you okay?" He asked.
Tara turned to him, "I just created a tool that nearly exposed Ladybug's identity and doomed us all because I was obsessed with making an alternative way of Communication!" She explained before giving a sarcastic smile, "Why wouldn't I be okay?" She asked before faceplanting herself on the table.
Daniel gave his mother a scoff before he walked up to her and rubbed her back in comfort. "Mom you didn't know something like this could happen. None of us did. It wasn't until Dragold told us from the news what happened when Ladybug tried one on, it was even shocking for the news crew." He said.
Tara lifted her head, "But I should've accounted that Monarch could've used Alliance against the heroes. I should've run some diagnostic or suggested safety measures to ." She said in a guilty tone. "Monarch is a crafty villain, I'll say that."
"So you made a mistake, a good thing now is that the heroes know they risk using Alliance but the rest of the world can." Daniel said as he smiled at her, "You did create something, great mom, don't let someone whackjob in a purple suit make you feel like you helped him. Your alliance can help people if you just believe that it can."
Tara smiled at her son as she stood up and kissed his cheek, "You remind me more of your father every day," She said warmly.
Daniel gave a warm smile in return while rubbing his cheek where the kiss was. "Well, he did pass on some of that wisdom and a part of him to me." He said.
"He would be very proud of you." Tara told her son before taking her bag, "Now, come on, today is parent-teacher conference right?"
"Oh, y-yeah. It's today." Daniel said with a smile. "You know, the school is a target for megakumas more times than any other place in Paris. You sure you can come?" He asked in concern.
"Oh, no amount of negativity will get in the way of my good mood today," Tara said with a smile. "Besides, knowing Ladybug, Cat Noir, and their new team, they'll protect us while we just stay out of their way for them to save the day."
"Well, that is true," Daniel said with a smile back as they walked out of their house.
While Daniel and his mother rode to the school, Daniel saw his friends waiting at the front as he opened his door and walked out before turning to his mother.
"I'll be back for the Teacher Conference," Tara said to her son with a smile. "I just need to grab some errands real quick. And the conference won't start until later on."
"Got it," Daniel said as he took his bag.
"Stay safe son, I love you," Tara told her son.
Daniel closed the door and nodded, "Yeah I know Mom." He said before walking away.
Tara frowned as she honked and Daniel froze, "You're supposed to say, 'I love you too'," Tara said.
Daniel flinched when he turned to his mother with a look. "Mom, are you serious?" He asked.
"Love is a two-way street, son," Tara said with a smirk while Daniel's friends all chuckled, which made him blush in embarrassment.
"Okay, fine. I love you too, mom." Daniel said while covering his eyes in embarrassment from his friends laughing at him.
"I know you do," Tara said with a warm smile. "See you soon." She said as she drove off, leaving Daniel in front of his friends, who were still looking at him in amusement.
"Mothers. They drive you crazy." Daniel complained.
Huánglóng poked his head out, "Yes, though they do their best to nurture and teach the young it can be hard for them to know when they've grown up." He said with a grin, "Alas, if Kwamis were born in such a way I would understand your pain."
Daniel raised a brow from that. "Gee, you don't sound so upset about it." He said sarcastically.
"Because it can be a gift of not being born like you mortals," Huánglóng said with a smirk.
"Okay, for being one of the most powerful kwamis and Miraculous in existence, you really have a strange sense of humor," Daniel commented as the others laughed. "Yeah, yeah, laugh it up. I hope the rest of your parents will be as embarrassing as mine."
"We're just finding it cute, Daniel. You're mother really does care for you." Molly said with a smile.
"Yeah, I know. Though sometimes, I think she does this to just tease me." Daniel said as they walked in.
At lunchtime, the five Zodiacs had taken their lunch and looking for a table and saw Adrien with three of his friends, "Hey Adrien, mind if we join you?" Jacob asked.
Adrien smiled and gestured to the table, "Have a seat." He offered.
The five then sat next to Adrien and his friends as they enjoyed their lunch before Jacob noticed something. "Hey, wait, Adrien, you're in the lunch room?" He asked in surprise.
"Oh yeah, my father let me eat here today, just earlier he drove me to school, he even made us breakfast," Adrien explained with a smile.
The Eight looked at Adrien like he just confessed to being Monarch, "Okay, it's official: Your dad has been replaced with an imposter." Sam joked as they all laughed.
"Trust me, I found it hard to believe at first but, I think he's trying to make up for being out of my life for so long," Adrien said with a small smile. "He really has changed since Alliance was released."
"From what my dad just said, Mr. Agreste never does things like that in his life. He was always more of a private person and a busy man." Jacob said.
"I don't know if he was pretending or being a clone, but sounds like he's actually trying," Adrien said confidently.
"So, Comrade Mayo, mine introducing us to your friends?" Nino asked while he, Alya, and Marinette looked at them.
"Comrade Mayo?" Daniel asked with a brow in amusement. "Was it that, a nickname because his dad is now wearing a white suit?"
"No, it's actually a codename," Adrien said with a slight chuckle. "Nino, Marinette, Alya, this is Jacob Econ, son of Ricther Econ the chairman of EcoTech." He introduced Jacob before gesturing to the others, "And this is Molly Strong, Sam Kirika, Kara Amore, and Daniel Strider."
"Hi." Sam waved while the others waved or raised their hands.
"And this Nino Lahiffe, Alya Césaire, and Marinette Dupain-Cheng." Adrien greeted his three friends as they waved back to them with smiles.
"We know about Alya and Marinette, but sorry, Nino, you're new to us, but Adrien did tell us about you," Jacob said with a smile.
"Nice to know my bro's been singing my praises." Nino joked wrapping his arm around Adrien's shoulders.
"Anyway, what was the whole codename thing, because Comrade Mayo, heheh, What's with the sauces?" Molly asked with a laugh.
Nino looked around to make sure no one was watching before leaning towards them as he spoke quietly. "We're starting a resistance against Monarch." He said to them. "With the other heroes out of the picture, someone's gotta step in and help Ladybug, Cat Noir, and their new squad out."
The Five Zodiac holders were surprised by what Nino was saying. "There's a resistance?" Kara asked.
"Not yet, but we are planning on starting our movement," Nino explained before smirking. "There's room for you guys if you are willing to join us, we'll call you Comrades Mustard, Rootbeer, Salt, Pepper, and Cheddar." He offered.
The five then look at Nino with brows. "Why are you making codenames based on sauce or spices?" Alya asked her boyfriend.
"Best I could come up with, don't judge camarade Beurre Maître d'Hôtel." Nino shrugged as Alya facepalmed.
Daniel then spoke. "Uh, well, this is a tempting offering Nino, but how about you give us the rundown on your plans first?" He asked.
Before Nino could say anything they heard, "Adrikins!" A familiar voice as as Chloe zoomed up next to Adrien, while the group looked at her in surprise. "Come dine with me. I have meals delivered directly from the palace." She said while gesturing to Sabrina, who was holding a lunch tray and a big dish.
"Thanks, Chloe, but I'm already eating with my friends," Adrien said while gesturing to the eight other of his friends.
"Scram Bourgeois, this table is taken." Sam waved off, which made Chole scoff.
"Whatever." Chloe scoffed while flinging her hair. "Just remember, eat like a loser, be like a loser." She said before she walked off.
"Huh, that girl really knows how to get under your skin," Jacob commented.
"Tell me about it," Marinette said in agreement.
"But seriously, Nino, what's up with the sauces?" Alya asked, changing the topic.
"What's up is that even with the Zodiac Team and Pigella, Ladybug and Cat Noir don't have the rest of us to help them anymore," Nino said.
Alya then started stammering while looking nervous. "What do you mean, 'us'?" She asked.
"Well, us. You, Rena Rouge, me Carapace." Nino explained.
The five Zodiac holders all either coughed, spit, or looked in shock at what Nino just said before Daniel turned to them. "Wait, you two are Rena Rouge and Carapace?" He asked in shock, trying not to speak too loudly. "Two of the old Miraculous team before Monarch stole the Miraculous?"
Alya stomped on Nino's foot, "Nino!" She hissed.
"Ouch! What's the big deal?" Nino asked.
"Secret identities!" Alya reminded him.
Nino realized what he said before he turned and saw the other five looking at them in shock. "Oh, right, they're new. But they're friends with Adrien. I guess it must've slipped out," He said sheepishly. "And besides, we can tell friends we used to be superheroes." He said in defense.
Alya and Marinette looked at each other in shock while the Five Zodiac were wide-eyed at what Nino was saying before Nino continued.
"It's not like we have any Miraculous that Monarch could steal from us. The only ones who need to protect their secret identities are the Zodiac Team, Ladybug, and Cat Noir, not us." Nino explained before he gave a guilty expression. "And anyway, I already told Adrien about Carapace."
Adrien then laughed sheepishly, while also reminding himself to talk to Ladybug about Carapace and Rena Rouge later, "Adrien knew?" Marinette asked in surprise before turning to Alya with a look. "Alya, did you know that he knew?" She questioned.
As the four talked around Molly noticed something, Marinette's earrings, and Adrien's ring. The colors were different but she definitely sensed something magical about them. She gasped as in place of Adrien and Marinette were Cat Noir and Ladybug for a moment, 'Finally found you.' She thought, reminding herself to tell her team about this.
As the argument went on, Lila saw them and walked to their table before she noticed Adrien with the others. "Adrien, are you eating in the cafeteria?" She asked in surprise before she smiled. "That's great. Can I sit with you?" She asked.
"All the seats are taken, Lila," Marinette said with a glare as she slammed her hands on the table, which surprised the others with Marinette's outburst.
Molly looked at Lila and she could practically see that deceit like it was written all over her face, "Uh, yeah, sorry, Lila. Not enough room on this table for one more." Molly said in a polite tone.
"Yeah, that's right," Marinette said as she covered the table in a corner while glaring at Lila while Ayla sighed.
"Although, technically, we are in the middle of a meeting," Nino whispered to Alya.
"Maybe tomorrow, Lila, if you don't mind," Adrien told her.
"That's fine," Lila said as she walked away.
Alya looked to Marinette, "Marinette, seriously what is it with you against Lila?" She asked her best friend. "She's really nice once you get to know her."
"Nice enough that she got me expelled from school because of her 'mistake'?" Marinette asked with a look.
Alya winced a bit, "Okay, there was that but," She tried to say before Molly spoke.
"She's a liar, trust me I can see it written all over her," Molly said, which made the group turn to her in surprise, seeing the rare scowl on her face.
Jacob turned to them, "Believe me, Molly's so good at unraveling the truth that any lie you could make will be ripped apart in seconds." He told them, "One time, she found out this guy was selling a used car just by a single spot of rust on the bumper."
The others were surprised while Molly smirked. "I'm a truth seeker, nothing gets past me," She said. "And your friend Nino is right, you shouldn't keep secrets from those you trust, sometimes for love, it's worth the risk."
Marinette looked at her in surprise, thinking about another secret, "Well, that's great and all, Molly. But are you certain that," She trailed off when Molly raised an assuring hand.
"Don't worry, I'm not one to force the truth out of people, I can leave secrets alone but encourage people to reveal the truth on their own and give assurance it would be for the better," Molly assured while Jacob nodded in confirmation.
"It's true, she does that," Jacob said.
"Anyway, Nino, you said that there's a resistance meeting?" Daniel asked, getting back on topic.
"Yes. The first meeting of the Resistance can commence." Nino said with a determined smile.
Molly then turned to Lila, who was aiming her Alliance ring at Adrien and Marinette. "And Lila, how about you delete that picture of Adrien, please? It's pretty rude to take pictures of others without permission." She called out.
Lila looked in shock at what Molly just said while the others turned to her in surprise when they saw Lila aiming her ring at Marinette and Adrien, while the former was glaring at her.
"O-Oh, sorry. I guess I just wanted to remember the first time Adrien was in the cafeteria." Lila lied while giving a nervous smile.
"It's okay, Lila. Just remember to ask before you take pictures." Adrien assured.
"I will," Lila said before she looks at her ring. "Please, Alliance, delete this picture." She said while secretly giving an angry look as the ring did as she asked. Lila realized that now, she had someone other than Marinette to worry about.
Marinette turned to Molly in surprise. "Wow, you're good." She complimented.
"Like I said, nothing gets by me." Molly said with a smile before glancing back, "But gotta admit, Lila's quite the challenge."
"She really is," Marinette whispered.
"Anyway, back on the topic." Nino as he places three sauces down. "All ears, peeps. The Zodiacs, Ladybug, and Cat Noir's problem is that Monarch's stolen the Miraculous, and from what we heard from the news, he has somehow transferred their powers to his akumatized villains from through his Akumas." He then places a yogurt on the table. "It's like he's sweetening his yogurt to give it extra flavor. But when Dragold draws out the flavor, he's able to get the honey so Ladybug can catch the yogurt."
The others all nodded to what Nino was saying. "Right, Dragold somehow managed to draw the power of the Miraculous out of the villain to reclaim a miraculous," Sam said.
"But the question is: how does Monarch add honey to the yogurt without anyone noticing?" Nino asked while the others were wondering the same thing.
"Exactly. Nobody knows." Marinette said in agreement.
"We already know that Monarch has some connection to the Alliance rings and that they can work outside of the Miraculous suits," Kara reminded, "Maybe that has something to do with it?"
"Hench my plan. We're gonna film an akumatization." Nino said.
"And how are you, Comrade Ketchup, gonna be in the know when and where this akumatization takes place?" Alya pointed out.
"Easy, Comrade Beurre Maître d'Hôtel. I'm gonna make it happen." Nino declared.
"What?!" Daniel sputtered, "You gonna purposely get someone akumatrized?!"
"Isn't that kinda, cruel?" Adrien asked his best friend in concern.
"Totally!" Alya said in agreement. "To make someone suffer just to discover Monarch's technique? Super cruel."
"No, it's not! You forget Ladybug always fixes everything in the end with her magic ladybugs! The akumatized victims forget what happened to them." Nino reminded, "And Bonus, an Akumatized Villain means a chance to snag back another Miraculous." He added.
"He does have a point," Jacob said, knowing that getting the Miraculous back was the only good thing about villain attacks. The others look at him in surprise. "What? If what Nino said is true, then an Akuma means the heroes will have a shot at saving one more miraculous."
"But you're gonna put yourself in danger and you don't have superpowers anymore, Nino." Marinette pointed out.
"Yes, but I have you, my comrades in the Resistance," Nino said while looking at the group. "And, as Comrade Béchamel would say, having friends is like having superpowers."
"Who... who is Comrade Béchamel?" Marinette asked.
"It could be you if you wanted," Nino answered.
Marinette gave a nervous laugh as Sam sighed, "So, did you have someone in?" He asked.
Nino stood up, "Follow me, Comrades." He said waving to them.
They all stood up and started walking away before Molly turned around, "Was there something you wanted Lila?" She asked as she caught Lila standing up as the others turned and saw her too.
Lila gave an innocent look. "Oh, nothing. I was just about to use the bathroom." She lied.
"Right?" Molly said with a brow. "Well, the bathroom's over to the right, we're just gonna go for a walk around the school, see ya around." She waved as they kept walking.
Lila growled in frustration as she clenched her fist. "I'm starting to hate that girl." She muttered.
While the group were walking out of the cafeteria, Nino lead them to the school's basement they entered before Nino checked to be sure they weren't followed as they shut the door.
They walked down the stairs before they noticed a map of of Paris, clues, pictures, and a plan board with a table with some papers and lights.
"What is all this, Nino?" Daniel asked.
"Welcome to Resistance HQ, my fellow comrades," Nino announced as they walked up to the setup.
"You made a Resistance base right under our school?" Kara asked in surprise. "The most common place where akumatize villains can be in?"
"What better way to see Monarch's schemes of his akumas than at our own school?" Nino stated.
Daniel grabbed him by the arms and turned to him. "We're not sure if this is a good idea, Nino. This is serious if the school is the most common area for Monarch's cronies." He pointed out.
"Don't worry, they're after Ladybug, Cat Noir, and the Zodiacs, and they don't know about us. Not yet anyway." Nino assured with a smile as they made it to the table. "The parent-teacher conferences are today. Now, who loses their temper easily? Who falls to pieces and loses their cool over nothing?" He asked them.
"A teacher?" Alya said boredly.
"No, come on. A parent. You want proof?" Nino asked while pointing at the pictures of each parent of their friends and family who were akumatized. "Almost all of them have been akumatized at some point. And today, we have the ideal parent."
He then brought a picture of Gabriel Agreste, "Mr. Agreste?" Molly asked.
"But, Nino, he's changed," Adrien said in defense of his father. "He's making an effort, and it's the first time he's coming to school."
Nino then walked up to his best friend. "Has he changed for real or is it just a publicity stunt for his awesome ring?" He questioned while showing the Alliance ring, which made Adrien upset about the mention of that as Nino realized what he said since it also reminded him of his mother before she disappeared. "Sorry, man. I shouldn't have said that." He apologized.
"Seriously though, Ladybug and her team would never approve of this plan," Alya said before turning to Marinette. "You're with me on this one, right Marinette?"
Marinette gave a conflicted expression. "Well, uh, if it could help them defeat Monarch, maybe they would agree." She said with a smile. "After all, Nino's right. Ladybug could fix everything afterward."
Alya gave her a disbelieving look. "You're not serious. Adrien, are you okay with this?" She questioned.
Adrien looked at her before turning to the alliance ring on his finger and he sighed. "If it can help Ladybug, Cat Noir, and the Zodiacs, why not?" He asked.
"And it will mean one more Kwami will be free," Jacob added uncertainly.
"I say, let's give it a shot," Sam added with his arm raised.
"This might come back to bite us, but if it gives them the edge to get a Miraculous back, then I'm down," Kara said.
"I'm not sure if we could do that," Molly said uncertainly.
Alya turned to Daniel, "Daniel what do you think?" She asked.
Daniel thought for a moment, rubbing his chin while thinking through Nino's plan, "I'm sorry guys, even though this plan could work, I don't feel right manipulating Mr. Agreste like that." He said, "Just using his emotions to learn our enemy's secret and get a Miraculous, how is that any different than Monarch?" He asked.
"Dude, if we don't do something to help Ladybug and the others to help out, they might never get the Miraculous back," Nino told Daniel.
"What if this plan backfires, or what if someone gets hurt," Daniel questioned, "If we are willing to use innocent people to get what we want then we're no better than Monarch." He stated with a serious look. "Look, Nino, you're plan is great and all, but we must not stoop to Monarch's low. You're the holder of Miraculous of Protection, you protect people not put them in danger."
Nino thought for a moment as he knew in his heart Daniel was right before he shook his head. "Dude, I get that we have to protect people, but now that Monarch has the Miraculous, including Wayzz and Trixx, we've all felt useless to help Ladybug and Cat Noir. We have to find other means to be heroes, because, what's there to protect if Monarch wins?" He asked.
Daniel knew what Nino was feeling, without his miraculous, he felt useless but he still wanted to help in any way he could.
Daniel sighed, "Alright, I'll give this a shot," He said before raising a finger, "But Nino, this will be the first and last time we do something like this, got it?"
Nino smiled as he nodded in understanding. "Don't worry, this mission will only be one time. Because honestly, I don't like this anymore than any of you, but if we need to know more about how Monarch transfers Miraculous powers, we have to take the risk." He explained.
"I get it, but also, make sure you don't make Mr. Agreste too upset, because next thing you know, Adrien might not be able to come to School ever again," Daniel said, gesturing to Adrien.
Nino looks at his best friend for a moment before nodding in understanding. "I promise. I wouldn't do that to my bro. And so the Resistance Council approves of the plan, seven to two." He announced.
"And also, Nino, you might be leader material, in some way when it comes to strategies, but just to be on the safe side, there must be a second leader to lead," Daniel suggested.
Nino thought for a moment before he nodded. "You're right. For a Resistance team, not every team could have only one leader. Daniel, you seemed to be leader material, how about you take up a leader role as well if I'm not available." He suggested.
Daniel smiled, "I'd be honored." He said before they all looked at the table. "So, what's the plan, Nino?" He asked as Nino then started explaining the plan to them.
A little bit later, the group was in position when they saw Gabriel walking into the school, which made the parents and students mutter in surprise that 'the' Gabriel Agreste was in the building.
"What do you know, Gabriel actually came," Daniel said in surprise with him, and Jacob on the second floor.
"And apparently he's in a good mood," Jacob said while noticing Gabriel's happy expression before turning to Daniel. "Dan, are you sure it's a good idea to go along with this plan?"
"Trust me, I don't like this anymore than you do, but if we want to find out how deep of connection Monarch has with Alliance we're gonna need to do some dirty moves," Daniel said,
"If we don't kick Adrien out," Jacob said before they saw Gabriel walking to them. "Mr. Agreste, it's a surprise to see you here, in person." He greeted.
"It's good to see you too, Mr. Econ," Gabriel said with a smile as they shook hands before turning to Daniel, "And to you as well Mr. Strider."
Daniel raised a brow, "How did you know my name, sir?" He asked.
"I've spoken to your mother, Tara, while designing the Alliance Rings with Mrs. Tsurugi, She speaks quite fondly of you," Gabriel explained before looking sympathetic, "On another note, my deepest condolences, I heard about your father. It's terrible how it's always the good people who are taken from this world."
"Thank you, but I've moved on from that loss and chose to honor my father's memory," Daniel said with a small smile. "He wanted to help people, and I know that he would agree,"
"Spoken by the heart, my boy," Gabriel said with a smile. "Now, I'll be off to parent-teacher conference." He said as he took Daniel's hand.
In the brief moment they touched, Daniel felt something before Gabriel broke the handshake and walked inside.
Jacob watched him go. "Gabriel is not that bad of a guy once you spoke in person with him and not in a tablet," Jacob commented before noticing Daniel looking at his hand. "Hey, you okay?"
"Huh?" Daniel asked before he shook his head. "I-I'm fine. Just zoned out for a moment. Something seems off, but I can't place it." He said before shrugging it off. "Let's stay on mission, we need to stay focused."
"Right." Jacob nodded as the two kept watch for anything purple and fluttery in the sky.
They then heard a loud noise coming from inside and jumped, "What was that?" Jacob asked in startled.
They then turned and saw Mr. Agreste and Adrien walking out of the class room, while Gabriel having a stain on his white clothes while having a anger but calm expression while Nino was recording on the ring.
"We need moire cream, ketchup, mustard!" Nino called out as the two Agrestes went down the stairs as the others rushed up to them.
Daniel turned to Nino, "Dude! The plan never involved staining Mr. Agreste's suit with spaghetti!" He exclaimed.
"How else would we get Gabriel angry. He loves fashion! I figure if we stain his clothes, he would get mad." Nino said in defense.
"I told you this plan was bad." Alya said with a glare. "All we've achieved is getting rid of your BFF. At best, he's the one who's gonna get akumatized." She added while gesturing to the two Agrestes walking to the door.
Marinette gave a sad look. "You see, Alya? I'm a curse for Adrien. All this proves is that I'd better stay away from him." She said sadly.
"No, what it proves is that we need to make up for this disaster by apologizing to Mr. Agreste and on the double comrades!" Alya called out as they rushed downstairs and exit the building before they saw the car drive off.
"Okay, for this dude, he's sure knows how to be prepare." Sam commented.
They all rushed to the Agreste Manor and hid just outside the gates as the two Agrestes walked in. "Great, the king of fashion has locked himself in his castle, what are we gonna do now?" Kara asked.
"How about calling Adrien to get his father to come out so we can talk to him?" Molly suggested while looking at Nino. "This was your plan, so you call."
"Good idea." Nino said in regret. "It was my fault." He added while calling Adrien as they facetime each other as Adrien answer the phone,
Marinette then took the phone. "Adrien, we're outside your house." She spoke before Alya came in front of the phone.
"Let us talk to your father." Alya pleaded.
Jacob then turned the phone to him. "Yeah, we'll explain everything to him and make things right." He added.
"That's nice of you, but talking to him now would only make things worse." Adrien said to them before they hear clanging sounds on the other end, which also got Adrien's attention as he started walking. They then heard Gabriel talking on the other side of the door, talking about how he failed as a father.
Sam gave Nino a look, "Good job Comrade Ketchup, you made Mr. Agreste feel like a failure of a father." He said bluntly.
"Yikes, I guess I went overboard." Nino said in guilt before they notice a Megakuma flying over them and into the building. "Adrien! A Megakuma! The plan is working! Film comrade, film!" He urged.
"Really? Now?" Sam asked in disbelief.
They saw Adrien then walk up to the door as he opened it as they heard Gabriel. "Whatever I do as a father is a failure! I'm not made for this." He cried out.
"Go ahead, comrade mayo, otherwise all this will have been for nothing." Nino urged.
They then saw Adrien aiming his phone at his father as he record it to the others so they could see it before they saw the Megakuma flying into Gabriel's tablet.
"Yes, Monarch. I'll do anything to get revenge on my son's friends who pushed me over the edge." Gabriel said as he stood up, "I will bring Ladybug, Cat Noir and the Zodiac Team's Miraculous!" He then transformed into the Collector. "You're going to give me a Miraculous power to help me with my mission? Oh thank you Monarch." The group look closely before the camera fritz out a bit. "I've been given the power of teleportation. Now I'll be able to trap them."
"We got it, Comrade!" Nino called out.
"Go and take cover, Adrien!" Marinette urged.
"I didn't see anything specific." Adrien spoke as he ran into his house.
"Don't worry. We got the video." Nino assured. "We'll analyze it while Ladybug, Cat Noir, and the Zodiac Team save your dad." He explain before Adrien ended the call.
But just as they were about to take off, the gate they were hiding behind vanished as the Collecter walked up, "I'll make nice and quiet children out of you. Get ready to join my collection." He said.
"Okay, we really ticked him off, guys." Daniel said as the Collector threw his tablet, but Daniel thought quick and pick up some rocks, "Here, try a rock collection!" He called out as he started throwing rocks, which the collector blocked before one hit him in the head, making him groan. "Comrades, dispense! Run for it!" He called out.
They all scattered in different directions while Alya and Nino are being chase by them.
Marinette then made it to an ally. "I hope this won't all have been for nothing. Tikki spots on!" She called out as she transform into Ladybug as she swung off to get Pigella.
The Zodiac group then ran into another wall while their kwamis came out. "Okay, Nino's sense of planning could really use some work." Daniel said in annoyance.
"Complain later, we gotta snap Adrien's dad out of it before turns all of Paris into his collection." Jacob said.
"Yeah, time to transform! Huánglóng, Heaven Ascend!" Daniel called out.
"Báihǔ, Earth Rise!"
"Nán Fāng, Fire it up!"
"Qīnglóng, Wind Rage!"
"Xuan Wu, Water's Flow!"
The five transformed into their Zodiac forms before jumping out and confronting the Collector while Nino and Alya got away, "Hey Collector, didn't your mother ever teach if you're gonna pick on someone, pick on someone your own size?" Caspian taunted.
"There is no one my size, but you will do nicely!" Collector mocked back before he tossed his tablet at them, which they spread out.
"Careful! He's got the power of voyage! He'll try to trap you with it!" Nino called out as Alya tried to drag him out of sight.
"Thanks!" Phoenix responded before rushing at Monarch.
"Comrade Ketchup, at your service, heroe-" Nino was cut off when Alya drag him away.
The Five Heroes all dodge Collector's tablet as they tried to clash wit him, but he kept dodging theirs before he stuck out his hand. "Voyage!" He called out while opening a portal and entered it before it closed.
"Monarch gave him the power of the Miraculous of the Horse!" Terrapin exclaimed.
"And if Collector has new apps to play with on his tablet, this isn't gonna be easy." Hydrake noted.
"Not without a little help!" They looked up and saw Ladybug, Cat Noir and Pigella appear.
"Welcome to the party guys!" Dragold said.
"Hope we didn't miss much." Cat Noir joked.
"No, just the opening act." Caspian said before he saw Monarch appear behind Cat Noir, "Cat Noir, watch out!" He called out before he manage to push out of the way.
"Keep you're distances! One touch of that tablet and we're history!" Caspian said as Collecter used Voyage again.
The heroes stood back to back with each other with their weapons, waiting for Collector's next move. "Where is he?" Pigella asked a bit nervously while clutching her tamborine.
Hydrake then heard the portal open behind them, "Watch out!" He called out as they all dodge the tablet as Collector caught it and portaled away again.
They gasped as he started portalling around like mad, "I'm going to upgrade my collection by taking your Miraculous!" He declared charging Ladybug as she bent backwards and he portaled away.
"Aw, man! At this rate, we'll never get close enough to get the Horse Miraculous back!" Phoenix complained.
Ladybug turned to Hydrake, "Hydrake, can you see if there's an opening?" She asked.
Hydrake nodded and focused, "Foresight!" He said as his eyes glowed and he saw red and black spotted bag of cheese and then the heroes in the sewers with Collector cornered and frozen by something invisible and lots of sewer rats behind them.
He then realized, "It's a trick! Collector's trying to lure us into the sewers, where Monarch is waiting to ambush us!" He told the others.
"What?! Then we need to trick him!" Ladybug called out. "Lucky charm!" she called out while her powers created a bag of shredded cheese. "Shredded cheese?"
"Plagg would be happy." Cat Noir said with a smile, knowing his Kwami loved cheese.
Hydrake smiled, "Just what we need." He said while Ladybug look around as they all turned to the Collector.
"After him!" Dragold called out as the the heroes rushed after Collector.
"Voyage!" The Collector said as a portal to the sewers opened.
"He's going into the sewers!" Terrapin realized as they watched Collector jump in.
Hydrake turned to them, "After him and remember, watch where you step!" He said as they jumped down too.
The heroes saw Collector as Cat Noir was about to charge at him, but he was frozen.
"Cat Noir!" Hydrake before he, Pigella, Terrapin and Caspian were frozen too.
Realizing their team was vulnerable, Ladybug and Dragold kept their guard up before they heard mice squeaking, "What's up with them? There's nothing-" Dragold stopped himself as he and Ladybug looked down and two small sets of foot prints walking towards them.
"Visible." Ladybug gasped as she look at the other heroes, the footprints, the mice, and the shredded cheese. "I got it! Once Monarch is distracted, extract the Miraculous from him." She told Dragold as he gave thumbs up before running off into a spot.
Ladybug then flip over the pipes as she opened up the bag. "Lunch time!" She spread the cheese all over the others and revealed a bunch of tiny invisible Monarchs while the mice smelled the cheese and ran towards the small Monarchs.
Realizing Ladybug just turned him into mouse food, the Monarchs ran away into another tunnel with the mice right behind them, "Unite!" Monarch said as he turned back to his original size and back to one.
Then Dragold jumped in from behind him, "Gotcha!" He declared as Monarch turned around too late as he Dragold performed the same movement he used with Dark Owl, "Miraculous Extraction!" He called, thrusting his hands at Monarch.
"Voya-" Monarch didn't have time to escape before he was hit by the Extraction and felt it draining him of a power, which turned orange before the rooster ring flickered and started to shoot out an orange light, "NO! Not again!" He cried out as he tried to keep the power in.
"I see you added the power of the Rooster last! That explains the invisibility!" Dragold said as kept focusing, "Too bad I'm taking it back now!"
"H-How are you doing this?!" Monarch demanded as he was failing to fight the Extraction before the orange light was suck out of him as the thumb ring was reformed and Orikko appeared as they floated to Dragold, who caught them.
"Just a little power the Celestial Guardian taught me." Dragold answered as he kept his hands over Orikko and out of Monarch's reach, "Now scram! Unless you wanna lose more today." He ordered.
Monarch grunted as he turned and saw the Heroes behind him, "You're not worth the effort." He grumbled before using Voyage and portalling away.
Dragold sighed as the other heroes joined him, "Did you save Kalki?" Ladybug asked.
"No, Monarch was using more then one power. But I did save Orikko." Dragold said as he moved removed his hands to show Orikko and his miraculous, looking very weak, "Orikko, are you okay?" He asked.
"I'm fine. Though some corn would be nice." Orikko said as he laid in Dragold's hands.
"Everytime we extract Monarch or other Villains of Miraculous powers, the Kwamis are exhausted of their energy and what's more the extraction strips them of their memories with Monarch." Caspian explained as they looked at the poor Kwami in sympathy, "We better get Orikko back to where he belongs. Who was his holder?" He asked Ladybug.
"Marc Anciel." Ladybug answered.
Caspian nodded, "I know him, I'll take Orikko to him and make sure that he doesn't have an Alliance ring." He said as he took Orikko and his Miraculous before running off.
"What about Mr. Agreste? Is he okay?" Dragold asked.
"I'm right here." Gabriel said walking up to them, looking exhausted and wet, "Thank goodness I was a professional swimmer in college."
The heroes all smiled at him while Cat Noir looked especially relief. "Glad that you're alright sir." Cat Noir said.
"And what's more, we got another Miraculous back from Monarch. It may have not been the horse, but the Rooster is just as good." Phoenix said.
"Come on, sir. Let's get you out of here and get you clean up." Pigella said with a sweet smile.
"Yes, the sewers is no place for a man such as myself." Gabriel said in agreement as the heroes walked out of the sewers.
Outside the Agreste Manor, the heroes, minus Caspian who was delivering Marc's Miraculous, stood with Gabriel as Nino explained what happened, "Mr. Agreste, I owe you an apology. All your troubles today, the pizza, the pasta, the chocolate, all that was- That was a plan to help the Miraculous heroes. And it worked dude!" He exclaimed with a smile, which Gabriel do the same before Nino recompose himself. "I mean, sir." He corrected.
"So did you get what you needed?" Dragold asked.
"I sure did." Nino said as he brought up the alliance ring while showing the pause video of the Collector. "Look at this. Magic lightning, that's how Monarch gives his akumatized villains the power of the Miraculous."
Gabriel saw this and hummed, "Well spotted young man." He complimented.
Phoenix however looked unconvinced, "Hold on Nino, I don't think that's it but the picture is a clue." She said as she took the photo, "The video frizzed out for a second likely because of an invisible signal from another device nearby, did you have any other devices with you before you were akumatized?" She asked.
"I did, my alliance ring." He said holding up the ring.
Dragold rubbed his chin, "Maybe when you got Akumatized, Monarch somehow accessed your ring and transferred the power to you." He guessed.
Gabriel gave a guilty look, "I am sorry, I didn't realize my creation could do such damage." He apologized.
"Don't worry, you didn't know." Cat Noir assured.
"At least we now have a true lead." Ladybug said as she put her hands over Nino's ring. "This is a huge step forward, Nino, but you and your friends also took a huge risk, and forced Mr. Agreste to take one too." She said firmly while Nino look in guilt.
"Ladybug, can you stop discouraging others?" Dragold asked with a brow. "I admit this idea was extreme but it was worth it. Of course I hope this won't be routine thing." He added giving Nino a look.
"Don't be too hard on them. They were only trying to do good," Gabriel assured with a smile. "And sometimes in order to do good, anything goes. But just as you said before, Dragold, I hope you won't make a habit out of this." While looking at Nino.
"See, even Mr. Agreste understands." Dragold said.
Nino nodded as he looked to Gabriel pleadingly, "So can Adrien still come to school with us, dude? I mean, Mr. Agreste?" He asked.
"Of course he can." Gabriel answered with a smile.
"You're so cool. I mean, kind. Thank you." Nino said with a smile and raised his hand out. "It would be an honor if you become Mr. Comrade Tartar Sauce, an honorary member of our resistance network." He said, which surprise Gabriel.
Gabriel smile with a chuckle before he grabbed Nino's hand and shook hands while the others smiles.
"That was great." Pigella said with a smile.
"That's some awesome sauce." Cat Noir added in agreement.
"Pound it!" The heroes declared before they left to detransform.
At Marc's house, Marc was writing in his journal about his fantasy adventures as Rooster Bold, adventures he'd hope to experience again. Marc gave a sigh. "I miss you, Orikko. I hope you are okay." He said to himself.
Just then, his roof made a thud, which made Marc jump a bit before he went to his window and looked up before Caspian appeared in front of him. "Western Caspian?" Marc said in surprise.
"What's new with you?" Caspian greeted before pulling a miracle box, "A little gift we got from Monarch, tell Rooster Bold we'll be waiting." He said before climbing back up.
"Wait!?" Marc called out, but Caspian was already gone before he look down at the miracle box and saw there was a note on top of it and read it. "'Make sure you are not wearing an Alliance ring when you put this on'? What?" He asked before he opened the miracle box.
And then in a flash of orange light, Marc was greeted by a familiar creature, "Ugh, long time no see Marc." Orikko waved weakly.
"Orikko!?" Marc said in surprise as he caught his kwami. "You're back!"
"Yeah, but not without an empty stomach." Orikko said with a slight chuckle before he clutched his stomach. "Do you still by any chance have corn?"
"Let's go check, buddy." Marc said while putting on the thumb ring and held Orikko before he took look at his alliance ring, knowing that what Tirgis said to him, he took the words by heart as he took it off and place it on his table before walking out of his room. "Glad to have you back, Orikko. This time, I'll keep you safe."
"I know you will." Orikko said with a weak smile, glad to be back with his holder and away from Monarch.
The next day, the five Zodiac Holders, Adrien, Marinette, Alya and Nino are walking back down into the basement.
"Our first mission was a huge success, comrades, but just imagine if there were more of us." Nino said with a sauce. "A greater variety of sauces means no recipe is impossible." He then gestured to the rest of Ms. Bustier class, minus Chloe and Sabrina, along with Zoe and Marc, "Which is why I present Comrade Bearnaise, Comrade Burgundy, Comrade Cocktail, Grand Veneur, Aioli, Comrade Gribiche, Ginger, Milkshake and Popcorn." He introduce Max, Kim, Rose, Juleka, Ivan, Mylene, Nathaniel, Zoe and Marc.
Daniel smiled, "Now this looks like something." He said with his arms crossed.
"You were right, Comrade Ketchup." Marinette said with a smile to Nino. "Having friends is like having superpowers." She said before she notice one person she thought she would never see in the same room. "What is she doing here?" She questioned.
Standing in the room was Lila, who gave an innocent look to Marinette, "Oh, my bad. I almost forgot to introduce Comrade Sweet and Sour." Nino said.
"Hello, Comrade Bechamel." Lila said to Marinette. "I know you haven't alway seen me as your friend, but now that we're in the Resistance together, the war's behind us, right? Let's make peace." She said with her hands raise while Marinette kept giving a look while Molly was suspicious of Lila's tone.
"Everybody wants to help Ladybug, Marinette." Alya said to her friend.
Marinette groaned as she was about to accept Lila's hand before Molly stepped up and stopped her. "Hang on a second, Lila, are you certain that your war with Marinette is passed?" She asked suspiciously.
"Why what ever do you mean?" Lila asked.
"Well, I know that earlier you were about to post a picture of Adrien during lunch hour, which if I have to guess, is to get the paparazzi to come get him, and you tried to follow us when we exit the lunch room." Molly said with a suspicious brow. "And then, you would tell Gabriel what Adrien was doing with us and our plan for him, and in exchange for the heads up he'd continued to have you as the female face of the Agreste brand."
Lila went wide eyes at Molly from that, which made her flinch back and the others look at Lila in surprise or confusion when Molly said that. "That was your deal with him right, because after Marinette told me that you framed her for being a jerk to you, was because Adrien's father ordered you to do that since he was felt Adrien was getting too close to Marinette, right?" Molly pressed on as Adrien was surprised by that.
Lila began to grew nervous as she look around and started stammer. "Uh, I gotta go. I uh, have dentist appointment!" She said as she zipped out of the room.
The others watched in surprise and confusion by what Molly said and how Lila rushed out of the room in a panic, rather then tears.
As she walked down the street, Lila gave a confused expression. "How is it that girl seeing through my tricks!? She's even more annoying and trouble than Marinette!" She cried out out in her real voice.
"With her around, things just got a whole lot more complicated for me." She said while clutching her head, now seeing even if she got rid of Marinette there was still another who would see right through her.
Back in the school the basement, Molly gave a smirk where Lila ran off to while Marinette walked up to her with an impressive smile. "Wow, you really could see through lies." She complimented.
"Yeah, Lila is pretty good, but not good enough." Molly said.
The others just stood there, still in a state a shock while their jaws dropped. "And rest assure you all, it's an honest truth and I only just met Marinette so what reason would I have to defend her unless I was certain Lila was the one who did wrong first?" She asked them.
The others looked amaze, "Wow, you should be a detective." Kim commented.
"Maybe someday." Molly said with a smirk.
Daniel then turned to Nino. "Nino, do you and others ever take account that even Lila's name is literally a clue to what she does best?" He questioned with a brow.
The others thought for a moment before realizing that Lila, actually sounded like 'lie', and they turned to Molly, "What else has she been lying about?" Mylene asked.
Marinette and Molly smirked to each other, "Care to do the honors, Detective Strong?" Marinette asked.
Molly raised a hand, "No, no. You were the one who knew Lila was a fraud, it should be your right to tell them," Molly said before leaning to Marinette's ear, "Milady." She whispered.
Marinette then gasped in shock at what Molly just said before she turned to her, who winked at her to say 'your secret's safe with me'. Marinette then shook her head and turned to the others, "Buckle up Comrades, this is gonna be a long trip." She said while the others huddle up as Marinette began to tell them everything about Lila.
Meanwhile, Gabriel was in his work station as he looked to the screen with a serious look, "Seems like the Zodiac Holders are as clever as they are resourceful." Gabriel started while looking at his alliance ring and brought up the picture Nino gave him. "They were able to find the connection between Monarch and the Alliance Rings and have stolen yet another miraculous from me."
Tomoe the gave a concerned look. "This is troubling, Gabriel-san. If this continues it won't belong before their whole union has been reformed and they trace the Akumas back to us." She said.
"Even still, I can't defeat them at this rate since I lost already three Miraculous." Gabriel said while looking at the depowered rings of the pig and rooster Miraculous, "Fortunately I still have the energy I absorbed from them, so I no longer need those useless creatures to access their powers."
"That is good to hear, your mysterious partner have done well to give you knowledge to copy Miraculous powers if you ever lose them." Tomoe said, "On that note, when shall I meet your associate?"
"He keeps much to himself, I am the only one he talks to. And even still, even I don't know his name yet." Gabriel said in thought.
Tomoe noted his expression, "You believe he is after something other than the Miraculous?" she guessed.
Gabriel nodded, "They say the greatest evil, is the one you never was even there." He said, knowing his mysterious partner had much bigger plans, and once he had his wife returned to him, he would find out what those plans are.
In a shady office, with a gold and black Emblem of the Three heads of Cerberus, Gabriel's mysterious partner was looking at a screen, and on it were pictures of Ladybug, Cat Noir, the Zodiac team and the other Miraculous heroes in battle against the Akumas.
The man gave dark smile, "I'm counting you little heroes. No matter if Monarch defeats you or you defeat him, there will only be one true winner of this game." He said as his eyes glowed an unnatural yellow, "And it will be me." He said with a nefarious laugh.
While the Miraculous Heroes might be on the path to defeating Monarch, it seemed there was another, more dangerous evil, watching and waiting from the shadows.