Hawkmoth smiled, as a storm raged on outside. He placed the newly found Miraculous on himself and summoned a grey ball of energy that martialized into an eagle-like Kwami.
"It's been a long time since we last stretched our wings, Gilbert! Gilbert?! Mr. Marquis?" The Kwami asked looking around curiously for their friend.
"I was right." The Kwami looked back in shock at the man standing before them, emanating a malicious aura. "The jewel was indeed the Miraculous of the Eagle!"
"Y-You're not Gilbert!" The Kwami said fearfully.
"I am your new master. Just like your former one, I have a great dream to achieve. And I believe you can help me.
"Oh, you know- I'm just Liiri, the Kwami of freedom. My power's basically to free people from anything that prevents them from reaching their potential. Nothing too powerful! " Liiri remarked, trying to edge away from the man but was bound to her Miraculous.
Hawkmoth scoffed as he touched the Miraculous. "Your abilities are all I need to obtain the Miraculous of Creation and Destruction!"
Ms. Mendeliev looked around wildly, checking down at her clipboard multiple times as all the students were collected together in the lobby after the museum incident. She checked her list multiple times, looking like she was about to snap.
"Ms. Cesire!" She called out, walking up to Alya who was hugging Nino. "Where is Mr. Dupain-Cheung?"
"I...uh, don't know." She said honestly as Ms. Mendeliev gripped her clipboard.
"Mr. Lahiffe- where is Mr. Agrete?" She asked turning towards him.
"He...went to get my headphones?" Nino said nervously as he could see the teacher looking at said headphones sitting around his neck like normal.
Ms. Mendeliev took a moment to process her through as she adjusted her glasses, clearing her throat. "Everyone from the class, please return to your rooms."
"But Ms. Mendeliev we have to go looking for them-" Alya was about to say before she was quieted with a single look.
"What the rest of you need to do is to return to your rooms so that it's one less thing to worry about. Now!" She ordered, pointing to where the dorms were while the students muttered under their breaths.
Rain fell in New York as Adrien walked back, holding his ringless hand all the way. Over and over again he told himself that this was the right choice, now Ladybug could find someone worthy to be his partner- someone actually deserving his kindness and wouldn't cause trouble. As he walked back up to where the rest of his classmates were he saw a familiar black car pulled up to the building.
"Adrien?!"
He turned to see Ms. Mendeliev taking off her raincoat as she raced down the stairs, placing it on him to protect him from the rain as she escorted him up the stairs. "Are you okay?"
"...I'm fine." He said lamely, hanging his head as he caught a glimpse of Jess and Aeon with their mothers in the lobby. He couldn't bring himself to look at Aeon directly but looked at his teacher as she knelt before him. "Do you know where Marinus went?" She asked in concern.
It took a little while for him to process her words, only shaking his head. "Is he not here?"
Ms. Mendeliev shook her head. "Do you know where he might have gone?"
Adrien shook his head again, unable to speak up as his teacher sighed. "Your father called us, he's sending a car over to collect you, your things will be sent for." She informed as a car pulled up in the front. As she guided him towards the, he didn't say a word during the entire time, sitting in the car as his teacher took the raincoat back. "I'll tell the rest of the students what happened, don't worry we'll find your friend."
As soon as Ms. Mendeliev closed the door, and the car began driving away, Adrien lifted his head to see his father on the screen before him. "You've made the right choice, Adrien this city is much too dangerous for you to remain here." His father said as Adrien only nodded as he looked down towards his hands.
"You had one mission to keep an eye on the French students!"
Jess and Aeon looked up towards their guardians, as they were being scolded by their mother.
"But we did! And that's how we discovered Marin and Adrien had a complicated friendly relationship, and consequently help them we created a supervillain in order to clarify their feelings!"
"YOU DID WHAT?!" Barbara exclaimed. "DO YOU KNOW HOW RECKLESS AND IRRESPONSI-" She yelled, but then was calmed down by her partner placing a hand on her shoulder. Barbara took a deep breath as she rested her hand on her forehead while Aeon spoke up.
"Mother, I don't understand. You always say that all that is is necessary from the triumph of evil is that good people do nothing! What did I do wrong?" Aeon asked, as Olympia spoke up.
"My darling, by trying to help them, you've put the students and yourselves in great danger. Doing good doesn't necessarily mean involving yourselves in people's personal lives."
"Maybe we're just trying to be helpful, because we had nothing better to do! " Jess remarked, still feeling the sting of being place on guard duty, but that only served to make her guardians more upset.
"Your mission was to keep an eyes on those students and you couldn't even do that-"
"We're not babysitters! We're superheroines!" Jess pointed out, arguing back as Barbara sighed heavily. "How will I ever be ready to leave the nest if you never let me spread my wings?!"
"No one prohibits Ladybug and Chat Noir from helping other and fighting villains!" Aeon pointed out as well, while their guardians exchanged an uncertain glance.
"Perhaps, we have been too protective of the two of you." Olympia said carefully as her partner crossed her arms, while both children were surprised by what she said. But before either could say anything they heard yelling. All of them turned to see the french teacher, Ms. Mendeliev, causing a ruckus in the lobby. Jessica and Aeon both stood to the side as they watched their mother Olympia walk ahead.
"Ms. Mendeliev, I am one of the publicists you spoke you about the class trip." Olympia said to the teacher who was visibly upset.
"Then maybe you could tell me; Where the heroes that were assigned to watch out for my students?!" She exclaimed out fully infuriated. The sight caused both sidekicks to look on in shock while Jessica became upset at the way the teacher was talking to her guardian, and was about to step forward until her mentor stopped her.
"You need to listen to this." Barbra ordered.
" I was told that the heroes of this city would be able to ensure their safety and provide help if needed. So please explain why exactly are there is still one student still missing?!"
"Our heroes and police are looking for them as we speak ma'am, if you could just remain calm. I'm sure your students will be found safely." Olympia said, trying to quell the situation. But this only appeared to agitate the teacher more, as she took a deep breath and gathered herself for a moment.
"I realize, that your hero culture is more ingrained in the states, and I am sure that your people are well equipped to search for missing people." Ms. Mendeliev said, trying to speak rationally. "However, this student in particular at worst will most likely be in need of medical care if this rain continues on. Time is of the essence, and I don't know why your heroes weren't there- frankly it doesn't even matter at this point, I should be out there looking for him." She said, walking past Olympia, but the taller woman tried to stop her.
"Ma'am, please try to think about your safety-"
"My safety?! One of my students is out there right now! With all due respect- you're not the one entrusted with the care of these children, I am. And I won't just wait around for something to happen!" Ms. Mendeliev exclaimed as she then walked out of the building by herself carrying an umbrella as she took to the streets of the city.
Both Aeon and Jess watched on, in silence as they heard the entire exchange.
"It's easy to lose the trust of the public, and even harder to earn it back." Babara remarked, crossing her arms. "There was a time before you two were born when standing up for justice marked you as a villain. Jess, you know this better than anyone- our legacy has always been to uphold the justice that every Knightowl has had in the past. Things may be different now, but that rule still applies. We had hoped that you two could understand what it meant to actually be a hero, but if you think that that guarding the lives of others is the same thing as babysitting-" Jess tensed up as her own words were thrown back at her. "Then you two are far from being ready to leave the nest." Barbara said sternly. "You two are suspended from active duty until further notice, end of discussion." She remarked, walking away outside while Olympia approached the two of them.
Jess hung her head, gripping her fists angrily while Aeon frown, looking guilty.
"I know this is hard to hear, but we know the good you two tried to do as well." She said gently, kneeling down before her two wards. "Doorman told us what happened, about how you two tried to help along with Chat Noir and Ladybug. Barbara is just..." Olympia's voice trailed off for a moment, appearing concerned before donning a smile again to reassure her children. "She just has some difficult choices to make. But that doesn't mean that we both don't love you two. Don't forget, we're your parents, it's okay to ask for help when you need it. Please be good." She said, kissing both children on their heads as she turned to catch up with her partner.
The rain poured in heavier as Adrien looked down at the charm bracelet he was given as his father lectured him behind the screen.
"I should have never listened to your classmate about going on the trip. It's evident, that he's a bad influence." His father said coldly as Adrien felt suddenly felt a spark within him.
It's a charm of boundless courage. If it helped you play better maybe it'll help with this, huge event you're so worried about.
Adrien recalled Marin saying, as he had told his best friend he was worried. At the time it was a lie just to defer him from finding out about his birthday, but now it was all he could think about. Marin gave him this charm of courage, but really it was worthless in the hands of someone who was a coward, who couldn't even speak his mind in front of his own father, who only was on this trip because his friend spoke up for him, he was worthless as himself. But then, amidst his misery, and self-doubt- something snapped. He turned to the car door, unlocking it as he ran out into the rain of the city, not listening to his father yelling at him from behind a screen.
Adrien didn't have a plan in mind as he ran through the sidewalks and alleyways, now fully drenched. But rather than feeling scared of the consequences of running away, he felt something burn in his chest, a new feeling that he hadn't felt before. Something that reminded him that if he had been the one missing, then Marin would be out there looking for him- heck, it already happened last December and his friend was bedridden for weeks.
Now while the rain poured, Adrien recalled how if Marin was out in the open, then he surely would be in the same boat as before. Adrien looked down to his hand, where his Miraculous should have been, feeling a hint of helplessness- but then he was shaken as he felt someone grab him, pulling him under the shelter of a nearby awning in an alleyway.
Adrien's face immediately heated up as he was face to face with his partner- former partner who looked at him in surprise. "Mr. Agreste, what are you doing running around the streets of New York by yourself in this rain?"
Even hearing Ladybug's scolding tone was enough to make Adrien's heart melt, until he recalled what exactly he did only a few hours ago.
"I...I was told by my father that I had to leave the city. But...I just couldn't when my friend is missing." Adrien admitted apologetically as he realized that Ladybug was still holding onto his wrist. Ladybug's expression softened, but his tone was still stern while speaking.
"That's sweet of you, to care but I'm sure your friend would care more about you being safe and warm indoors than being drenched in this rain.
"You don't understand..." Adrien said as his voice cracked. "I can't leave without knowing he's okay. He gets lost way too easily, he gets sick at the drop of a hat, and...When the building started to fall apart. I should have tried to find him but instead I just…I just can't stomach how terrified he must be right now." Adrien said as Ladybug placed a hand on his shoulder. "Sometimes bad things happen Adrien, and there's nothing anyone can do about it. We can despise, we can hate, we can cry, we can run away, but in the end, everyone has to choose if those bad moments will define our lives. I know how you feel." Ladybug said as he held the black cat Miraculous in his hand, catching Adrien's attention.
"I failed." Ladybug admitted aloud as he looked down at the Miraculous of Destruction sadly. "I was weak, I gave into Hawkmoth's power and lost our Master. But while I was so stupidly focused on how I felt, I never thought how much it must have affected Chat Noir as well. There are so many things that Hawkmoth has done to harm me and Chat Noir...but without Chat Noir there's no point in me being Ladybug."
Adrien's eyes widened as he heard those words coming from his partner.
"But you can just find a new Chat Noir can't you?" Adrien asked as his voice wavered, for a moment he thought that his question would offend the hero. But rather than that, Ladybug chuckled.
"Eventually I would have to, but they wouldn't be my Chat Noir. Silly to say, but it was only because of him that I even became Ladybug in the first place. He saved me once, and from then on I just stuck by him- thinking that it would make me stronger. If I could see him again just one more time..." Ladybug said wistfully, unaware at how his words made Adrien's heart race. But before either could say anything more, a familiar voice rang out through the city.
"Ladybug, Chat Noir!"
Both of them turned towards the main street where Hawkmoth's face was plastered over every screen available.
"The protectors of New York now will be its downfall. To free them, and ensure the city's preservence, your only option is to hand your Miraculous over to ME!" The villain remarked as the screen then shut off, leaving the two stunned.
Adrien's heart sank as he saw the message, just as the rainfall lessened. Ladybug walked past him as he took out his yo-yo. "Where did you come from?"
"F-From my father's cab." Adrien said, as Ladybug wrapped his arm around his waist, pulling him close as he carried him through the city and back to where he started.
"It's best to get out of the city right now." Ladybug said, holding the door as Adrien was reluctant to go back in. However, Ladybug stepped forward towards him, taking something out of his yo-yo and pressing it into Adrien's hand, just before pushing him back into the car. Adrien's eyes widened.
"This is-" He said just as he looked up at his former partner.
"It'll find its way where it belongs." Ladybug said just before closing the door, but Adrien stopped him by, grabbing onto his hand.
"Wait! You're just leaving this with me?" Adrien asked desperately, as his guilt only grew.
"I trust you Adrien. It's one of the reasons I believed you deserved a Miraculous in the first place. You care about people and you have more courage than I could ever dream of having." Ladybug said with a smile, the first one in a while, as he shut the door and leaving Adrien to look down at a photo of an elder woman he didn't recognize and the Miraculous of Destruction.
Aeon looked on at Jess who held her head in her hands, feeling the effects of their mentor's most recent lesson, even while a villain from overseas threatened the entire city.
"The protectors of New York now will be its downfall. To free them, and ensure the city's preservance, your only option is to hand your Miraculous over to ME!" The villain remarked as the screen then shut off.
Aeon narrowed her eyes as she grabbed Jess's hands, running with her up to the roof of the building. "We have to help!" She said as Jess, stopped her just as they reached the roof.
"We need to follow orders remember? Otherwise, we'll both be put out of commission."
"Yes, but if we don't do anything, then we might lose our parents." Aeon said, catching Jess's attention.
"Aren't you suppose to be the obedient one?" Jess asked, a little smugly as Aeon smiled.
"Not when the city needs us." Aeon said as she transformed into Uncanny Valley as Sparrow followed suit.
"You realize that if we fail then, New York is doomed right?" Sparrow asked.
"Incorrect," Aeon remarked. "Ladybug and Chat Noir are here too!"
"Are you serious?! There's no way they'll want to work with us after what Knightowl and Majestia said to them!"
"Maybe, but they're really the heroes that Paris believes them to be, then we'll have trust that they'll rise to the occasion. Also- We're dealing with a supervillain whose powers have been multiplied by an Akumatization! We have a zero probability of success without them!" Uncanny Valley pointed out as Sparrow sighed.
"When you're right your rights UV. We have to give ourselves a chance because we are their last chance! But how are we gonna find Ladybug and Chat Noir?" Sparrow asked as Uncanny Valley started to hover.
"I have a feeling that they'll find us." Uncanny Valley said as she flew into the sky while Sparrow grabbed her skateboard from the roof and then followed her partner.
In Times Square every hero in New York ran amuck, following their own will and unbound by responsibilities. Sparrow sat atop a nearby roof looking down on the scene with her skateboard resting on her back.
"Okay! On one side there's me, my basic training, and zero weaponry! On the other side, an army of super-powerful heroes that have gone insane. Huh?" She remarked, but then noticed the moon appearing to grow larger. There was only one hero in the world with that kind of strength. "Sounds evenly matched!"
Sparrow used her training to race around the city, looking for any sign of either hero while Uncanny Valley did the same. "Anything on your end?" Sparrow asked, pressing down on the communication device in her ear.
"Negative." Uncanny Valley informed as someone caught Sparrow's eyes. Knightowl was hassling civilians, berating them for the most superficial things.
"You didn't recycle your can and you didn't return your library book! You're both going to prison!"
Sparrow used the fire escape to jump onto the railing nearby her mentor. "That's not how you trained us to enact justice, sir!"
Knightowl turned towards her with a glare. "I ORDERED YOU TO REMAIN BEHIND!" The hero barked, throwing a Owl-arang at the sidekick. "I've got eyes on Sparrow disobeying orders!" The hero remarked as Sparrow used her skateboard to flee. But as she rode by a dumpster a blaster appeared from it aimed towards her. Sparrow's eyes widened in shock as it went off and a homing missile flew towards her.
She sacrificed her skateboard to evade it as she then took out on foot. As she raced through the streets, wary of the target now on her back- every hero in New York targeted her.
Sparrow evaded the missiles, diverting the range of the missile by jumping on them, and kicking away other heroes. But as she tumbled into the street, the missiles caught up with her. Her eyes widened in shock as they few faster than she could run, but still made the attempt as the hero ran through the streets as fast as she could. But then her weight disappeared as she was grabbed. The next thing she knew she was being carried by Ladybug who then jumped down into an alley, taking refuge behind a dumpster in an alleyway.
"Ladybug?!" Sparrow exclaimed in surprise, looking at the hero. "Huh,- UV was right."
"Why does your city have missiles?" Ladybug asked, dumbfounded at the sheer amount of weaponry that was hidden in plain sight.
"They're our city's security system for major invasions and whatnot. But they're not meant to be aimed towards citizens at all, only the president has the power to divert their paths."
Ladybug nodded as he thought to himself with a serious expression on his face.
"Uncanny Valley and I need yours and Chat Noir's help saving the city, we think that the villain from earlier, Technolizer, has been Akumatized." Sparrow quickly explained as she noticed Ladybug tense up.
"Considering Hawkmoth is here, I would say you're not far from the mark. If that is the case then we need to find the possessed object and destroy it to release the Akuma."
Sparrow thought to herself. "Could it be the handcuffs? I think it's the only thing he had on him." Then her eyes widened as she realized there was something else different about the villain. "Oh, but he was also wearing the necklace Lafayette gave to Washington!"
"A necklace?" Ladybug asked as he narrowed his eyes, thinking about the new form that Technolizer had taken. But their attention turned elsewhere as Hawkmoth's voice echoed out through the city.
"Ladybug! Chat Noir! The stakes have been raised; in five minutes a world war would be declared! Unless you give me your Miraculous of course!" The screens then showed a giant rocket appearing in the harbor of the city, rising from the water.
"Why does your city have a giant rocket in the harbor?" Ladybug pointed out as Sparrow scratched the back of her head.
"For the safety of the city?" She responded while Ladybug did not appear convinced. "So? Where's Chat Noir? I assumed that you two worked together closely." Sparrow said as Ladybug stood up, turning his back to the hero while Uncanny Valley landed nearby.
"Chat Noir...has forfeited his role." Ladybug said in a dark tone while the other heroes looked at him in shock.
"What?!" Sparrow and Uncanny Valley exclaimed in shock.
"But he's your partner isn't he?!" Uncanny Valley asked as Ladybug gripped his fist.
"He made his choice. I don't have to like it, but I will respect it." Ladybug said sternly in a way that reminded Sparrow of Knightowl's stubbornness. "Right now we need to ensure the safety of the city and that means we need to get rid of all of those rockets this city has apparently. Uncanny Valley could you activate them all at once to train on one target?"
The android looked at him in surprise but nodded. "Yes, I can override the system that is under Victory's control. But these weapons are no joke, including the giant missile in the harbor how exactly are you planning on getting rid of them?"
The black-spotted hero gripped his yo-yo in hand as he took out a pair of glasses that he placed on his head.
"Glasses? How exactly-" Sparrow asked as she stepped back from a ball of light that formed before Ladybug and materialized into a small horse-looking spirit. "WHAT IS THAT?!" The hero exclaimed as Uncanny Valley looked between the two heroes in confusion.
"What is what?" The android asked.
"This is a Kwami, the source of power for each Miraculous." Ladybug explained as Kaalki observed the two other heroes.
"Hmmmm, these two don't appear to be up to my standards, the other nerd was at least more fashionable." The Kwami remarked.
"What is happening?" Uncanny Valley once again asked with an expression of confusion.
"There is a cranky horse thing flying around, can you seriously not see this?" Sparrow asked, turning towards her partner.
"Kwami are invisible to all technology- no offense." Ladybug remarked to the android hero. "But right now- Kaalki is the key to my plan." He said as the Kwami looked at him in shock.
"No way! No way!" The Kwami exclaimed in worry. "You've already used me too many times! Once more and who knows what will happen!"
Ladybug's expression softened as Kaalki sat on his hands. "Just let me worry about that for now. I promise I wouldn't do anything that would hurt you." He explained, but the Kwami was unconvinced.
Adrien looked down at the ring that had miraculously ended up back in his hands, by his partner of all people. His attention then turned to the photo, of an unfamiliar woman who was smiling. Behind it was a letter, Adrien's eyes widened as he recognized Master Fu's handwriting.
Chat Noir, if you are reading this, then perhaps the worst has happened. Both Ladybug and I are gone, or maybe just the opposite.
Adrien's stomach sank as he read those words.
A Miraculous is a heavy burden to bare. If you've decided to forego it in order to live a more fulfilling life no one would hold it against you. With living each of our lives there come pivotal moments where we must choose how we spend them.
For me, I chose my role as guardian; I believed that repenting for my mistakes was the only way to live and as a result, I lost the love of my life and lived only a fraction of the life I truly wanted to live. I could not fight for what I wanted because I chose to believe that a lonesome life was all I deserved. However, I only know now that way of thinking was selfish on my part.
Out there, there were people who loved me, who cared for me, who wanted for me to find my happiness- but all I could do was live in the past. If it was truly your choice, if being Chat Noir is no longer the path you desire, then I wish you happiness. But if you feel aimless, if you've lost your way- then I know what Ladybug will always be in your corner.
Fu
P.S.
But if you leave while Ladybug continues the fight. Then it would be ideal if you could convince him as well. Despite his serious nature- his heart is fragile. I know that he would never stop until both missing Miraculous are returned to where they belong. But without someone else looking out for him then he'll be more prone to making reckless choices.
If it were possible- Adrien's heart sank into the depths of the abyss- reading the former Master's words.
He saw Uncanny Valley flying past with numerous missiles flying towards Ellis Island at high speed. Adrien's eyes widened as in the distance he saw a familiar portal opening up, a giant one- meaning only one thing. He looked back down at the letter- telling him it was okay to walk away, that he deserved to have a choice to give up his Miraculous. But as he looked down at his ring of destruction, Adrien gripped it tightly for a moment- already knowing what he had to do.
Uncanny Valley flew through the city at a height that garnered the attention of everyone in the city as all of the missiles honed in on her. The weapons were at her tail as they flew faster only slightly faster than she could fly. As she gathered all of the missiles in the city, Ladybug and Sparrow were already on Ellis island, where Technolizer was sitting.
From the island, they could already see where the missiles were coming from, and even more, were sent out as Technolizer targeted the two heroes.
"I need you to buy me some time!" Ladybug called out as Sparrow nodded, garnering the attention of the villain as Ladybug used his yo-yo to swing towards the rocket, landing on top of it as he summoned Kaalki.
"This isn't a good idea." The Kwami remarked as missiles flew overhead.
Ladybug took the Kwami's warning in stride, already knowing that he had already pushed the limits of the indication skill. But without Chat Noir helping... "This is our only option. Kaalki, Tikki; unify!" He exclaimed transforming into Horseshoe- and then throwing his yo-yo in the air.
"Lucky charm!" Horseshoe exclaimed, activating his power as a travel-sized tube of hand lotion fell into his hands. He frowned immediately as the universe was sending him mixed messages. "Like a lucky charm could get me back on a plane-" He remarked to himself.
Sparrow followed through with Ladybug's- now Horseshoe's plan, as she drew the attention away from the Parisian hero. In the distance, Uncanny Valley drew the danger away from the city and towards Ellis Island. The plan was to run out the clock- to ensure that no damage could be done to the city by the missiles, but she had no idea how Horseshoe was going to do that. She took shelter behind a wall, on the lower end of the island out of sight as she watched Uncanny Valley flying past the island towards the larger issue. Sparrow also noticed Horseshoe heading in the same direction- using his yo-yo to swing to the top of the rocket just as it was preparing to be shot out.
"Come on..." Sparrow said in concern under her breath as she hoped with all her heart that the Parsian hero would be able to pull off such a feat.
Horseshoe landed atop the rocket, balancing on the nose, his head spinning for a moment as the effects of unification took it's toll. However, the hero shook his head as took a deep breath pushing his hands away from his body as he pushed away any feelings of remorse or thoughts of his former partner. The only image in his mind was a place where no harm could come to anyone, where large explosions could happen.
"Voyage!" Horseshoe exclaimed, as a ring of light formed around his leg, then Crescent kicked a large portal that he directed towards the sky above him, using all of his energy to enlarge it. As soon as he did do- Horeshoe could feel the world start to spin, however, his job for the most part was done all that was left was for Sparrow to do her part. Just as Horseshow was about to jump off of the rocket about to launch- which would take the other missiles with it a yell reached him.
"LOOK OUT!"
Horseshoe heard Uncanny Valley's voice as he turned to see Technolizer attacking him with his claws, binding him to the rocket as he struggled against the technology.
"I don't know what the boss is complaining about, best way to get rid of an insect? You blow them up." The villain remarked pushing the button. Horseshoe reacted quickly as from his yo-yo he popped a pastry into his mouth just as the rocket was sent flying towards space- and more specifically the moon.
Uncanny Valley had no hesitation as she flew after Horseshoe and the rocket, following them through the portal as it closed.
"No..." Sparrow murmured as she watched the slight unfold, now glaring at Technolizer who was laughing like a maniac. She gripped her fist angrily as she glared at the villain who now took away her entire family. But then, through her anger, she eyed the supposed Miraculous around Techonilizer's neck, the source of his power.
Ladybug entrusted her to take back the Miraculous in order to save her family. If she could do that...
Don't forget, we're your parents, it's okay to ask for help when you need it.
Sparrow's confidence was renewed as she only focused on the task at hand, at the Miraculous around the villain's neck. While he was still distracted she threw a nearby rock towards him, distracting him for the moments needed to grab the Miraculous. Sparrow jumped towards him, grabbing the necklace as used his shoulder to leap off, removing his power and putting it on herself- summoning an eagle-looking spirit, similar to Ladybugs'.
"Hello, fledgling! All you have to say is: Liiri, wings of Liberty!"
"Lirri, Wings of Liberty!" Sparrow exclaimed as the Kwami transformed her into someone new. Immediately she felt a rush of power as all her senses were heightened.
"Give that back you bratty bird!" Technolizer exclaimed angrily as he tried to blast her, but using her new heightened agility she evaded it easily. In this new form Sparrow could sense where all the liberated heroes were, and in her mind popped a single word.
"Abolition!" She exclaimed, and in a single moment, she could feel that all the heroes were turned back to normal. But while Sparrow was glad to have saved her parents and comrades, she was then blasted by Technolizer who only grew angrier.
She tumbled back, retreating as she was being pursued by the heightened villain, and sent out a message on her communication device.
"This is Sparrow to Heroez United! I need back up on Ellis Island, Uncanny Valley and Ladybug are MIA in space on a rocket and Technolizer is still-AH!" Sparrow was then grabbed by the villain who took advantage of her momentary weakness.
"This ends the era of the bird brains!" Technolizer remarked as he aimed his blasters one more time directly at her as Sparrow struggled to escape.
In space, Ladybug's transformation as Horseshoe had timed out just as he transformed into his Cosmo-suit. The hero struggled against the binding that was keeping him to the rocket just as Uncanny Valley was trying to catch up at full speed. As she reached out towards him, just as they were closing in on the sun- he reached out towards her as well, using his yo-yo to help close the gap.
Uncanny Valley grabbed on, and while struggling, used the wire to get closer to Ladybug. As soon as she touched the rocket she tried to use her powers to override Technolizers claw but it was to no avail since the intense heat from the sun growing closer started to burn her circuits. Cosmo-bug's eyes widened as he quickly realized he still had his lucky charm.
Against the tension of the rocket, he struggled some but used the lotion to lip out of the brace. Uncanny Valley grabbed him just as the rocket and accompanying missiles flew into the sun, but the shock of the jettisoning the two into deep space, spinning wildly. Cosmo-bug tried to steady their rapid spin using his jetpack but was too dizzy to do so while Uncanny Valley was burned out from heat and then frigid temperature of space.
But then both of their grips started to slip as they were quickly losing strength. Just as they were both about to let go the two were picket up just before they were about to be lost in space.
"Hey! Techno-loser!"
Astrocat yelled out- transforming back into Chat Noir as he broke Sparrow out of the villain's clutches. He then used his pole to push back against the villain as he and Sparrow gained some distance between them. Sparrow fell to her knees, exhausted from the fight as Chat Noir stood before her.
"Chat Noir?" She asked, looking up at him in surprise. "Ladybug said..."
The cat-themed hero frowned for a moment as he quickly realized. "Where is he?"
"Technolizer sent him into space, Uncanny Valley is trying to save him right now." She explained quickly as Chat Noir felt his breath escape him- thinking about the last interaction he had with the person he loved the most. If his final interaction as Chat Noir was to betray his partner's trust...
But he snapped out of his thoughts as Technolizer laughed cruelly. "Yeah, that's right, cat! Your little bug-faced partner and that robot are probably already barbecued right now!"
Chat Noir flexed his claws as a wave of anger burned in his stomach, one that he knew he had no right to feel, and yet- he scoffed. "You say bug-faced like it's a bad thing." He remarked as he charged towards the villain, feeling a surge of energy as his baton split into two. His ears twitched for a moment as he heard someone else approaching, as he charged towards Technolizer.
The villain grinned victoriously as all four of his claws aimed for Chat Noir while the hero used his now- Escrima sticks- to attack the villain, keeping up with each strike the villain threw at him. Chat Noir only scoffed as he followed up each swift strike with a kick to knock back the other claws from grabbing him. Even so- the fight was taxing as all Technolizer had to do was walk forward with his claws while Chat Noir was using his entire body to fight. But then, the cat-themed hero used his claws to jump back a few feet, placing some distance between them.
"Running away now?!" Technolizer laughed. "Three of you brats couldn't even beat me! What makes you think that you're so different now?!"
"I didn't need to beat you." Chat Noir remarked, winking as Technolizer looked at him in surprise. "I just needed to do what I do best- standing in the spotlight! "Then all of sudden Technolizer's claws were bound together by his body by a wire as he was thrown into the air, then crashed on the ground. Looking up, he was shaken to see a familiar hero glaring at him.
"K-Knightowl?!" The villain exclaimed in disbelief as the hero then held him up by his collar.
"Your move." The hero said as Chat Noir flexed his claws- but then hesitated as he quickly realized. "I can't release an akuma without my- I mean, Ladybug." He said, still feeling the guilt from earlier.
"Don't worry about him." Knightowl said as they looked towards the sky. Chat Noir followed the hero's gaze as his ears perked up, seeing Magestia carrying both Uncanny Valley who had scorch marks on her, and Cosmo-bug, whose armor was cracked- however, both were still alive. Chat Noir let out a breath of relief, seeing that his partner was okay, and then flexed his claws.
"Cataclysm!" He exclaimed, touching Technolizers shackles which released the akuma.
Cosmobug transformed back to normal as he threw took out his yo-yo. "No more mischief from you little Akuma. Time to purify!" He said as he swung his yo-yo towards the possessed Akuma, capturing it in one motion. Then opening it once more, watching the newly purified Akuma fly away. "Bye-bye, little butterfly."
"Miraculous Ladybug!"
As magical ladybugs flew through the city returning everything to normal Ladybug averted his gaze from looking at his partner- wondering if Chat Noir even wanted to see him again. However, he didn't have a chance to think twice as Chat Noir immediately hugged him tightly.
"Chat-"
"YOU DUMB-BUG!" Chat Noir exclaimed, pulling back with his hands still on Ladybug's shoulders while his partner looked at him in surprise. "HOW COULD YOU BE SO RECKLESS?! USING UNIFICATION MULTIPLE TIMES AND THEN SHOOTING YOURSELF INTO SPACE?! WHAT WERE YOU THINKING!"
"Ah- I'm sorry?" Ladybug said, still stunned that this conversation was even happening right now. In fact, shouldn't he be the one upset? "I wouldn't have done it, if I thought there were other options, it was to ensure the safet-"
"WHAT ABOUT YOUR SAFETY HUH?! BET YOU DIDN'T THINK ABOUT THAT!" Chat Noir scolded, lowering his head as he finally calmed down. "I just don't understand how you think..."
"Chat Noir. I'm sorry."
"What are you apologizing for? I'm the one who couldn't handle being a hero anymore."
"That's why I'm sorry." Ladybug said more somberly. "When...when we lost the master, I was only thinking about myself. I was so used to you being the stronger one I didn't even stop to consider how you were being affected by this." Ladybug said placing a hand over his partner's. "I didn't choose to be Ladybug when I started out, but because of the Master I was given multiple changes to forgo my Miraculous, you didn't get that change until it became too much." Ladybug said as Chat Noir's eyes widened. "So, if you don't want your Miraculous anymore, if you don't want to be Chat Noir anymore, I'll respect your choice."
Chat Noir sighed heavily, now fully annoyed at his partner. "You're always like that; being respectful and considerate and literally everything a do-gooder should be. Yet somehow you're also a full-on maniac when it comes down to it."
"Ahem-"
Both partners turned to the family of American heroes still standing by. Chat Noir's stomach sank as he saw Knightowl again- thinking back to his words, and the pain he caused.
"Char Noir-" Knightowl began to say, but was cut off by the cat-themed hero.
"Maybe you're right, maybe I'm not worthy of wielding a Miraculous, maybe it's too dangerous for a kid to be using something that has already caused a lot of trouble. I know that I haven't always been the most serious about being a hero and keeping the people safe. But-" Chat Noir began to say as he then grasped Ladybug's hand reflexively. "But so long as this guy continues to be a dummy and so long as he needs me around, the only person I would ever give up my Miraculous to is him." Chat Noir said confidently with his eyes clear from any doubt.
"Though I still believe that you both are a threat, I realize that I have misjudged you; For that, I apologize," Knightowl admitted, holding out his hand towards Chat Noir. In turn Chat Noir's eyes widened, in shock at the response, but shook the elder hero's hand, feeling a rush of relief.
"You both make quite the couple!" Majestia added with a smile as Chat Noir blushed furiously.
Before Ladybug could get a word in Chat Noir spoke first. "WE'RE NOT A COUPLE! I mean- we're together, but not together-together. I do like this guy, but I'm not in like with him or anything! We're just good friends, great friends even!" Chat Noir rambled as he then awkwardly laughed, while his partner nodded in agreement to most of what he said. While both Aeon and Magestia had a sparkle in their eyes much to their respective partners grimace.
"Ladybug?" The black-spotted hero turned to Sparrow, who took off the Miraculous, handing it over to the other hero- reverting back to their hero persona. "I'm pretty sure this Miraculous will be safer in your hands. It appears I have a lot more to learn about being a hero- if I am still one?" She asked, glancing at her mentor.
Ladybug narrowed his eyes as he placed the necklace on, summoning the Kwami before everyone's eyes.
"Hello!" The eagle Kwami said cheerfully. "I'm Liiri!"
Ladybug eyed the Kwami, deep in thought as Liiri, in turn, looked at both Ladybug and Chair Noir, her eye widened in excitement. "It's an honor to meet the Guardian of the Miracle box!"
"Guardian?" Sparrow asked curiously as Ladybug looked down at the Miraculous.
"The Guardian is the title of someone chosen to protect a Miracle box. However-" He said eyeing Liiri once more. "I'm certain that this one's keeper should still be around somewhere. It would be better if Liiri were to remain in the hands of someone capable." Ladybug said as he handed back the necklace to Sparrow.
"What? But- I'm practically the last person that should be holding onto this, I disobeyed, I went against my better judgment, I...I'm no real hero."
"Being a hero doesn't make you worthy of wielding a Miraculous. It's about your strength of character and heart. Besides-" Ladybug said as he placed the Miraculous into Sparrow's hand. "We all make mistakes sometimes."
Sparrow looked down at the opportunity presented before her but glanced back at her mentor for their input, fearful that her guardians may refute her new role.
"You've been my protege for years now, I would have expected you to take on my role when the time came." Knightowl said, causing Sparrow's stomach to sink. "But- perhaps it is time for you to step away from the mantle of Sparrow." Knightowl admitted as Sparrow looked at them in shock. "For centuries now, Knightowl and Sparrow have been the protectors of this country- fighting against injustice and inspiring others to do the same. But in this era, where people are ready to stand up for what they believe in and take a stand against all that is corrupt, perhaps there is no longer for this cowl and cape." Knightowl said, removing the mask to reveal her true face- shocking both Sparrow and Uncanny Valley while Majestia wrapped an arm around her partner. "Truthfully, I had been planning on stepping down from the mantle ever since Majestia proved herself, the only attachment aside from that was believing that I had to hold up the traditions my mentor taught to me. Maybe this Miraculous is a sign; A sign that change is always inevitable."
"Then...that means?" Sparrow prompted as her mentor chuckle, petting her head affectionately, smiling pridefully at her student.
"My little Sparrow is ready to become a fearsome Eagle."
"Thank you, Mom!" Sparrow exclaimed happily, but then quickly realized the implication of her words, and quickly cleared her throat. "I uh- I mean, ma'am."
"But working without us is only part-time." Knightowl said, returning back to her stern persona. "And you both are still grounded from your earlier spectacle."
"Yes ma'am." Both Sparrow and Uncanny Valley said in unison while Majestia walked up to Ladybug and Chat Noir.
" And even though it still worries us, the only way for them to grow is for us to let them take the same changes we were given. Thank you for inspiring them." Majestia said with a grateful smile. "And if I may say- you both make a darling couple." She added with some amusement as Chat Noir's face burned red.
"AH, WELL, WE'RE NOT TOGETHER. I MEAN, WE WORK TOGETHER, BUT NOT TOGETHER-TOGETHER. HAHAH-" Chat Noir rambled as he scratched the back of his head, laughing off his embarrassment while Ladybug looked at him in confusion and Uncanny Valley's eyes lit up with excitement.
All four of the younger heroes stood atop the Statue of Liberty to properly say goodbye. Sparrow had transformed to her hero persona- Eagle, while Chat Noir assumed his form as Astrocat.
"If it wasn't for you two, we wouldn't have been given this chance to become our own heroes," Eagle said gratefully as Aeon nodded.
"Indeed, though there were a few bumps along the way!"
Astrocat chuckled nervously at her implication. "Still- we had some good time. Plus- I'm grateful that being here gave me the opportunity for us to hash out some issues." He said as he looked at Ladybug with a softened expression, who in turn nodded in agreement. However, Uncanny Valley suddenly became excited as she looked between the two, eyes still shining- much to the hero's chagrin.
"OK WELL- I'll see you back in Paris bugaboo. I care about you the respectable and moderate amount!" He said hastily as he jumped off the statue, spreading his wings and flying in the sly.
As Ladybug looked up at his partner flying back to Paris and with the newly reassurance with their friendship Ladybug felt a new feeling bubble up in his chest- something warm that made him réassurées in himself.
"Is that normal?" Uncanny Valley asked as Ladybug looked at her and then followed her gaze to look down at his hands. His eyes widened in surprise as his suit was glowing, every black trim or spot was glowing white against the night.
"It is not." Ladybug said in amazement, as the glow faded- leaving him with an uncertain, but foreboding feeling as an eager smile drew on his lips.
Back in Paris as night fell, Adrien stepped back into his room with a dreary feeling as the rest of his classmates were still on the trip. But then he smiled slightly as he looked down at his phone, receiving a text from his class group chat of all of them at the parade together. His eyes scanned the photo, seeing that Marin wasn't there- due in part to his best friend being bedridden. As it turned out, he got locked inside the building after the incident, his phone battery died, and he was forced to walk back through the rain.
Though Adrien was sad that he wasn't able to make sure his friend was safe, it appeared that his bodyguard, still a chaperone on the trip, was the one taking care of him. He then heard a knocking against his window, then everything froze as he saw a familiar black-spotted hero jumping from his window, standing a few feet away in front of his coffee table.
"Ladybug?" Adrien asked, hoping that his voice didn't crack.
"I won't be long." Ladybug said, holding out a small gift wrapped in pastel pink paper with white polka dots.
"You didn't have to get anything for me." Adrien immediately said as Ladybug placed it on the table. His heart raced, looking down at a gift, and then at his partner who in turn had an expression of gratefulness- not knowing that it was Chat Noir whom he was talking to.
"It's a token of gratitude, for bringing my treasured friend." Ladybug said, placing a hand over a closed fist as he bowed his head respectfully.
Adrien's mouth felt dry with nervousness, asking aloud a question he had been mulling over. "Did you really mean it? When you said that you couldn't imagine working without Chat Noir?" He asked as Ladybug nodded.
"Yeah...he's the one I care most about, more than anyone I think- ah, aside from the citizen of Paris like yourself of course! Your safety is always the top priority!" Ladybug stammered for a moment as he nervously scratched the back of his head. "Anyhow- I'll leave you to it!"
Before Adrien could say anything in response Ladybug used his yo-yo to jump out of his room back into the city beyond his reach. He approached the table with Plagg hovering nearby, smelling the gift first and then immediately becoming disinterested.
"Blech! It's not even cheese!" The Kwami of Destruction remarked as Adrien chuckled.
"Not everything has to be cheese." Adrien said, but then fell silent as he looked at the gift in hand; a small snowglobe that had the city of New York within it. He shook it once, causing all the glitter to float around like snow as a smile grew on his face. The gift was cliched to say the least, but in that moment it meant everything to Adrien as he felt a little less adrift from all his friends.
"I love it." Adrien said under his breath, his chest swelling up with happiness with thoughts of the person he had truly fallen head over heels for.
Notes:
-Uncanny Valley was nerfed a little, but it was in favor of more Ladyrien bonding.
- The implication of the American hero culture is that Knightowl has been a lone hero for centuries, but in the more modern era there's no longer a real need for them with more heroes upholding justice. So the mantle can be retired. The concept I had was that since Majestia is more in the forefront, there's more leeway for retirement.
-The motivation for Ladybug's new power will be touched upon more whenever I get to season 4.
-Local Cat boy realizes that he's in love with a ladybug.
- Adrien deserved a letter from Fu as well.