Chapter 08
Chloe sat her costume being completely black with a red segmented belt for the tail. She felt like some weird trained monkey as the tail listened but also had a mind of its own. She casually watched Chat run around the stadium. The masked figure continued to watch things. His phone being used as a stop watch.
"Why am I here?" She complained as she stopped her bouncing her leg.
"You didn't want to hand over the miraculous so you get to stay here and watch. Unless you would raither join in? I could always use more data points to compare." The wanna be spy only glanced at her for second.
"Done," Chat passed his lap as he slowed down a bit. "So what are we looking at?"
She glanced over at them. As the two poked and talked and Chat nodded he looked like a guy pretending he knew what was going on. She adjusted the collar on the suit and continued to pout when she realized someone was standing behind her.
"Excuse me," she frowned at very old looking man in an outfit that belonged in resonance fair with his crazy cape.
"Sorry I am here to talk to an old friend of mine." He bowed slightly to her. She was a bit surprised at the polite figure.
"Something up, Doc?" The lazy mentor spoke up and approached the man
"It might be best to take this one inside," a hole opened up. She blinked as she saw an incredibly well furnished study.
"Can we come?" Chat Noir asked as the two adults looked at each other.
"Don't touch anything," they both said at the same time.
They walked in as a bronze cauldron bubbled off to the side. "So what's so important you needed to talk to me?" He asked as he sat down.
"What is this?" Chat asked as he looked at a mirror. She glanced as her brain tried to come to terms with what she saw.
Images of herself flashed, one where she dawned the ladybug costumes somehow. Another were she was bullying a boy with short dark hair. One were she was tossing around a banana for some reason. One were she was hanging out with her dad and seemed to doing weird around the hotel. Her skin crawled at the idea. Then one of a blonde boy that could have been an older brother.
"Don't stare to long the possibilities could drive you mad." The wizard interrupted,
"So that means that Blonde girl I saw was me," he blinked, "I saw a lot of concerning things."
"Anything specific?" The man in black asked,
"I saw versions of me that weren't real." Chat Noir curled up on the spot.
"Clones?" He asked, "that was a fun day when I learned I was a clone." He rubbed his head, "not my best moment." The old man shot him a look Chat gave him a look Chloe had moved on to the black bubbling liquid.
"I am still me, mind you I might not be as strong as the original. But I had kids I moved forward with my life. I am no less a person."
Chloe rolled her eyes the bubbles popped up as what looked like scenes from a life randomly surged forward. The red and blue costume, looked horrible. Then something black grabbed onto her she stumbled as the black goo grabbed onto her.
"What is that doing here!" Mentor shouted as she was no longer
"You okay son?" Said a kind voice,
"Uncle Ben," groaned a voice, that felt like it couldn't come from her. She couldn't talk but she was sat down as an ice pack covered one eye. The old man sat down a kind smile on his face as a few jokes about not having a baseball player in the family. It was weird even if she wanted to talk she couldn't as a rather old woman dotted over her. The home looked a bit small and warm down.
All the attention the kindness she was getting his favorite dinner. The old man wanted to spend time with her. All the kindnesses and love it was.
"Gasp," she woke up on the floor as Chat hung over his eyes filled with worry.
"Chloe, Chloe are you alright.
"I am sorry, she felt like him," a black ooze apologized, "I thought it was him."
"I told you to stay hidden you and Peter always bring out the worst in each other." The old man chastised the lump.
Her teacher stood over her. "What did she fall into?"
"A memory it's how I keep track of you in the multiverse." He explained,
"What memory what did she see?" Peter looked absolutely horrified at the idea.
"Nothing crazy just a, baseball incident?" Strange explained, "she may have picked up a few other things but I slipped those into her dreams they should be safe."
"I know your names why you never introduced yourselves." She frowned,
"That should fade, we did warn you not to mess with anything," Dr. Strange reminded as Peter gave him a look. She could tell he wanted to argue.
The trip back was a bit confusing her mind still felt foggy and she was sure she missed something important. The night wasn't much better flashes of memories acted up no longer the queen bee she was being bullied. The next morning she felt drained and tired but her mind was clearer and the memories had faded into vague feelings. However she still recalled the emotional distress and its source. She lingered a bit as she frowned at him.
"Rough night Mademoiselle?" He asked she really was a but surprised when the normal venom that she could bring out seemed to drain.
"Bad dreams," she shrugged Jean looked unsure he clearly expected something but since Adrian stopped being friends she was already finding it harder to put in the effort. "I don't need to change I am fine the way I am!" She shouted as Jean jumped at the outburst.
She needed to be loud she needed to be noticed and acknowledged. But realty was being forced down. Memories that weren't her's and seeing different versions of herself some worse some that had what she wanted. She slumped back down a new bitterness started to linger not at her peers but at her parents. That one memory of two loving parents. She stood up and tracked down her father as Jean rushed after her.
"Daddy!" She shouted at him as the man froze and looked panic.
"Yes dear?" He asked nervously.
"Can we spend some, some time together?" She asked as she suddenly lost her nerve.
"I," he looked at his desk as she was filled with a familiar dress one that she intentionally repressed. "Sure," he answered and she almost felt like crying almost.
When school finally rolled back around she had missed the latest Akuma attack. Rose apparently continued to meet the prince and after one to many roadblocks. A mind control perfume that thankfully robbed people of sense since Chat Noir got tagged with it.
She ignored it not really interested Rose might have been the school's sweetheart but she seemed to be little more than a doormat in her opinion.
POV shift
A bit earlier in the day Plagg had convinced him that something interesting lingered behind his mom's portrait. Under normal circumstances he would have been more hesitant with his father's secrets.
"Oh I love dirty little secrets," he chuckled as he phased into the safe to unlock it. He kept his eyes on the door. As Plagg complained, he glanced over everything. "My, my, what have we got here? A book on Tibet, an old flyer from a hotel, a load of junk, come on, where's the good stuff?" He knocked a book over as Adrian caught it relieved it hadn't made any noise. He glanced at the flyer it was dated back about two years ago. "... But who cares? I'm famished! I need Camembert!"
He heard foot steps only he only caught a bit from Plagg as he wondered if everything was clues to mom. He bagged everything up including the book since he had already closed the safe in his panic.
"Adrian your going to be late," Natalie she said as she walked in with his bodyguard. Who grunted an acknowledgment. He would look over this later. As a he mused over the flyer was his dad still looking for mom?
Two years ago he had simply accepted the disappearance. However now that it was back in his mind.
"Oh hello I am new here could you help me?" He was brought of his thoughts a girl with long hair smiled in front of him.
"Sure I would be happy to help," he smiled as she chatted him up. He helped her quickly he was ready to continue with his own thoughts but she seemed interested in continuing as his own politeness held him firm.
The bell rang and he was free. When class finally freed up for lunch he pulled open the book only to see "ladybug?" He thought it was a language he wasn't familiar with. Next was Hawkmoth, it was a book that seemed to be about the miraculous. That meant his father knew about them. He rushed off as he nearly knocked Lila over.
"Sorry, I need to take care of something," he helped her up and headed to Mr. Parker's class.
"This doesn't look good," Parker glanced at him. His phone flashed over it. "This needs to go back," he looked at him.
"Really?" Adrian wasn't sure it felt like his teacher forced himself to look deeper at himself.
"Yes this isn't definitive proof, but this is damning. And I mean it Adrian nothing short of a miracle could convince me it's anyone else. However that's not enough for a court of law. So take this home say nothing. Else he might pull you from school keep this in your sight at all times I'll work on the language." He held up the phone.
"I can't fight my father," he admitted,
"Conflict between you will be impossible regardless of this," he pushed the book towards him.
"Why?" He knew why.
"What woman could you bring home that he would approve of?" He leaned back as he looked at the book. He picked up the book, the idea was painful that he knew that unless a girl was willing to tolerate his father's ways he would forever be limited, if not out right denied a relationship. He did not want to cry he couldn't cry but even as he rushed he could feel it happening anyway. He needed to find someplace to just be alone.
He found himself in the library he looked at the book and he could feel Plagg moving but before he could.
"Are you okay?" He glanced up to see the new girl.
"Sorry it's nothing," he couldn't let anyone see him like this. "Just coming to terms with reality." He brightened up when smiling was your job only a close inspection would have even hinted at something wrong.
Lila looked unconvinced, "what is that?" She noticed the book.
"Something I took from my dad I got told off for taking it," he lied but he wasn't going to say the real reason he was upset.
"Oh," she looked over the book, "ladybug," she realized,
"That was part of the reason I held onto it. She really is amazing." Just the thought of her was enough to make him feel better.
"A girl doesn't need to wear a costume to be amazing, you know," he was suddenly very aware of how close she was.
"It's, uh," he was now very aware that this girl had so easily threaded his walls.
"So you got a soft spot for the bug?" She was looking into his eyes he was not sure what do.
"Me oh no not all," he denied however he was confident his face said a different story.
"You know I actually happen to be really close friends with Ladybug,"
"Really?" He gasped however a second latter a little voice that sounded like Peter "that sounds off."
"We can chat about it if you want. Not hear at the park after school I'll tell you everything." She continued as he got the impression something was off. Something slammed into the wall as he realized it was a cart. His mind snapped into hero mode as he quickly scanned the area. His phone went off,
"I need to go I have lessons," only to realize he didn't have the book in hand.
"So the park?" She asked as she smiled,
"Sure, I can't get into anymore trouble." He groaned.
POV shift
Peter was not a man who dealt in magic. However language was another thing entirely. He brought out his full knowledge base using code breaking plus a little Google fu to inspect languages around the area. It wasn't perfect but he was able to translate a few words and given time he could do more. Something about forms and other abilities. It seemed odd since creation should theoretically allow them to build anything. Well maybe Marinette was unwilling to talk about her abilities or experiment with them so maybe she needed to know how it worked and these forms were more short cuts. He mused over the recipe lists.
Suddenly his window flung open as Felicia dropped in. "Damn goons, sorry for being late." She apologized,
"I take it you where fallowed?"
"Nothing I couldn't handle but the mail probably isn't safe. I also kept getting asked about a son as well."
"Really," he couldn't help but crack a smile, "I, oh," he started to laugh as he figured somehow someone heard Adrian during the body switching thing.
"What's so funny?" She glanced at him in confusion.
"It's nothing I just realized how that conclusion was made. Apparently we have a teenage vigilante with cat themed super powers." He laughed,
"I could see that, well kinda in uniform a bit," she admitted, as she thought it over. "Anyway this one might be to much for the kids to handle though."
"How so?" He opened the box as a watch rested inside. "A very nice looking watch he could hear the rhythmic tick as a dolphin popped up.
"I am Finn the kwami of innovation and the most powerful of all." He boasted as it did a back flip.
"Wait so, oh," he realized the implication of that one theoretically speaking if this worked like he thought he was in an interesting situation.
"Peter," she warned,
"Oh do t worry, I'll keep my head on." He dismissed as he looked at the watch. "Finn I need you to remain silent for now but trust me I got a feeling we are going to get along swimmingly."
He had set up a workshop, the second school was over he was already out the door. His own mind recalling every bit of knowledge he had on the technology in his home reality. Finn floated next to him as he got to work this was the time to test the limits of the Kwami.
POV Shift
Lila sat she already had her story set up. The fox hero seemed believable. Adrian was a perfect mark innocent and trusting. A few pictures on her phone he really shouldn't have said anything about stealing If he caught which few people ever did she would still have leverage over him. She just needed a someone he knew to pin things on. She would need to find out the teacher that gave him grief, they might be helpful. The makings of who she could throw under the bus safely in mind she put on her best smile as Adrian showed up.
POV shift
Marinette really did not like Lila however she was convincing herself that the book was the real reason she was here.
"Ah there you are," she nearly froze as she was worried she had been caught. "You know stalking is often times frowned own." Felicia leaned up against a tree to look at her.
"I, uh, was worried," she tried but the woman looked unconvinced just what she needed another Alya. That was mean but she was not in the mood.
"Hmm, bad vibes?" She glanced towards Lila
"Well it's another thing but that's the big one," she admitted she wasn't sure if she new and she was already uncomfortable with Peter knowing.
"Hmm, well I'll leave you to it, however this is kinda creepy and I trust me I know creepy. If your really interested this is a guy your going to have to plant one on before he gets it." With that she walked away. The slight distraction however was enough and Adrian walked away she missed the conversation.
"AdriAn," she blurted out as she rushed after him her words trying to revolt as she said his name.
"Marinette," he smiled but it wasn't his usual smile. "Would love to stay and talk but I need to get this home. I took it without permission."
"Are you okay?" She picked up that something was wrong.
"I need to go," he took off at a run.
"Just what are you doing here?" Lila's voice was already recognizable inspire of not even being around for a single day.
"Trying to talk to a friend," she responded,
"You know the funny thing about me is I know a lie when I here one. He's mine so you better back off." Her smile vanished,
"I think that's his decision to make I can already tell you make him uncomfortable and taking advantage of his kindness isn't a good idea." Marinette felt her temper spike maybe it was born of jealousy but something beyond that just bit at her core.
"We shall see but seeing as how he just ran away from you I think I am in the better position." She pointed out with a cruel smile.
"Maybe, but good luck with that Ladybug thing I hope he doesn't ask you to meet him cause like a lot of things coming out of your mouth I don't think there's much weight to them." She spun herself around and walked off. She got to the ally way and took a deep breath to get her anger under control.
"That was not necessary we might not be able to catch up with him." Tikki looked distressed that the book was out of sight.
"I am not done yet," she decided as she took cover and transformed. She already had her plan and feeling a bit braver. She leaped forward and dropped down next to him.
"Is something wrong?" She asked as she did her best to focus on the book.
"I am really in trouble I can't stop to talk." He explained as he nearly tripped into someone.
"I need you to stay calm," she scooped him up bridal style and she was so busy keeping her own cool she completely missed the squeak he let out as she ran forward. "Where are we going?"
"Home," he got out as she carried him off.
"There we go," what's with the book," she felt really bad slipping it out of his hand he didn't even try to stop her.
"It's my dad's I need to get it back we're it belongs." He explained. "It has stuff that looks like Ladybug and Chat Noir," he whispered then froze and backed off as his face went completely red.
"Can I look at it?" She asked,
"Here," he offered his phone with both hands. "It has all the pages in it already. Just please bring it back." He had both of his eyes closed as she gently took it and handed him back the book.
"Thank you, bye," he took off inside the gates mansion.
"Code!" She got out only to realize it was already unlocked with the code already typed out just in case. She quickly tipped it down. There was also the issue with the ladyblog interview but she got sidetracked. She had planned to confront her on but now that she had cooled down it seemed like a bad idea. She walked off she needed to talk to Tikki about the book she hopefully would be okay with this. she looked at the phone and slipped over the photos.
Only for screaming to pick up she spun around to see a massive meteor heading down. Only to see a fox themed hero deal with it before she could even try anything.
She landed on a roof top just in time to hear. "I am Volpina, the only superhero Paris needs!" The chanting was just salt in the wound. Something seemed off. Unless Mr. Parker had found, well there was something that came up he booked it but he was usually so careful. She thought over all her information she new off the guardian and that he was hesitant to have other miraculous running around neither fit.
"Looks like we have a new partner," Chat landed next to her. She glanced at him ready to say her suspensions reflected in his face.
"Bad feeling?" She asked,
"Let's see how this plays out," he sighed,
"Hey guys! Glad you dropped in, I need a hand," she dropped down on the roof next to them. The two looked confused only to see.
"Hawkmoth?" He asked but he seemed confused.
"He never shows up this must be big!" She blurted out.
"We can take him. but it's gonna take all three of us. We better make the most of our individual talents." She smiled
"Of course," Chat flashed a smile but she could feel something was off about it.
"Nice to meet you by the way and cool outfit Chat Noir," Volpina eyed him up as the slight head movement was enough to make her uncomfortable.
"Why thanks you too," he smiled at that, and she couldn't help but gag.
"Was that Necessary?" Chat sighed, "anyway what are your abilities?"
"Super strength and flight," she explained, she was going to say something.
She glanced away and read the text. "No scent," it read she glanced back at him.
"He's getting away!" She shouted as Hawkmoth disappeared. "Ladybug go to his left, Chat to the right I'll come from behind."
She flew off as they glanced at each other. She understood the Hawkmoth didn't have any scent which meant it was an illusion so was the meteor and probably the flying fox as well.
"Warm me when she strikes" she got his text and set up a text that all she needed to do was tap her phone.
"Where did he go," she said out loud as she tried to be as fooled as possible.
"I wouldn't move an inch if I were you," Volpina made her presences known. "Well at least now I can say I met you," she smiled,
"Lila?" She realized as she gave the akumatized girl the most confused look she could give. "Listen who ever you are this isn't a good idea."
"You will call me Vulpina!" She demanded all while Marinette really wanted to know where all the anger came from. She really wanted to tell the girl off for a lot of reasons but she hadn't got the opportunity.
"Why you? Why a hero any other girl I could have swept but he had to be infatuated with you!" She raged at her as she took a step back.
"I am missing some context here," she said a little concerned,
"Nice job monologueing!" Chat suddenly leaped from behind only to be dodged
"Cat's aren't the only ones with good hearing," she mocked as Marinette blinked. She was expected to be tackled to the ground to realize she would have been hit already. He managed to adjust his frame to avoid crashing into her. She was a bit surprised that he landed on his feet as the two took off after the troublesome liar.
"Is she heading towards the Agreste mansion?" She glanced at him,
"Well a lot of things are in that direction but it feels like it. She seemed to have it out for you why the sudden change. Did you do something?"
"I wanted to, she keeps talking about us being friends and we never met and it was a few other things but that might be to much." she banked on the idea Chat didn't know the girl cause that might be to much.
"Maybe we we should consider press releases." Chat shrugged as they watched her break into Adrian's room.
She leaped off onto the roof. "When did you put on the coat?" She glanced at him as she realized he had fused with Blurry.
"It is getting cold, let's scout things out," he slipped off as she wasn't given a chance to protest.
"Adrian!" She glanced down to see him walk out of his bathroom with shades and a bathrobe.
"Hey, who are you," he froze as he stayed close to the door.
"Do you remember the necklace," she asked
"Lila?" He glanced at her, "what is this all about?"
"Call me Volpina, and I saw the way you looked at Ladybug when she helped you out."
"I don't get where your going with this," He tried to back away.
"Well I am going to prove I am the superior superhero," she stepped closer to him looking less heroic by the second.
"What are you doing?" She muttered as she flipped open her phone. "Where are you?!" She typed out,
"It's the Necklace," he typed back as she glanced around, she spotted his head in a window.
She dropped in, "this is pointless," she dropped into the room.
"She even knows I am better she's jealous," she pointed out however Adrian looked less then convinced,
"If this was about being the better hero why does my opinion mater being a hero isn't about being acknowledged, least of all from me." Adrian,
"But you like Ladybug, Nino told me," she rounded him,
"Who doesn't?" He looked very uncomfortable as he glanced at her.
"Okay this has gone on long enough, Adrian run," Chat dropped the long coat fanning around him as he landed in between Volpina and Adrian. Adrian booked it as soon as he could.
"Get out of the way cat boy!" Volpina glared at Chat, she suddenly created an illusion. Chat's double dropped down where the original was only to miss and trip.
"Okay bad idea," he admitted as it vanished,
"Still working on that huh?" She teased,
"Would it be vain to say I just like the look?" He gave a cheeky smile. She had already swatted away a few illusions.
"What was that all about?" she asked him
"I wanted to see if we could reason a person out of their bad feelings. But since Adrian was clueless as to the why it just made things worse." he admitted,
"Same old Chat," she thought to herself, only to see Adrian being dragged out the window. "Chat Noir she's taken Adrian.
"It's another illusion," he explained,
"How can you be sure?"
"I knew Hawkmoth wasn't real," he pointed out,
"But Adrian is gone," she pointed out.
"Do you trust me!" He shouted as he rushed out the window
"Yes," she answered only hesitating a few seconds
"Then trust me," he ran forward "I'll explain later but not while she can hear us in case she can counter me," He explained, as the watched her climb up the Eiffel tower.
"Give me your Miraculous now or I will!" Vulpina demanded she stopped short she wasn't sure. Chat was convinced it was an illusion.
"I thought you loved him," she challenged,
"Not as much as seeing you two defeated," she glanced at Adrian who looked fearful. "No hard feelings, right?"
"I got your number it's just another illusion, and I already know that Arachnids on his way your running out of time so just give it up." Chat stood firm.
"You wanna bet?" She smiled as she slowly released her fingers.
"No!" She couldn't take that risk her fingers went for her earrings.
"Trust me!" Chat tossed his baton the both vanished as she took a deep breath.
"There she is," relived that Chat was right, they went higher only to see more Volpina.
"Lucky charm,"
"You guys could have called," Arachnid leaped onto the building.
"We weren't sure, sorry buddy but Adrian was in trouble and we didn't have time to think."
She unwrapped the chocolate popsicle "Ah, and here I, a Popsicle?" He glanced at her.
"Trust me," she answered, only to get a smile from Chat Noir. The trick worked blinded and captured with webbing as she fell.
Lila blinked and looked at her but before she could say anything. "Rivals," was all that was said before she walked off.
"What was that all about?" Arachnid asked as he scratched his head.
"It's about you keeping you mouth shut," Chat glanced at him.
"I have no idea what your talking about," he blinked just as confused as she felt that had a bit more bite than normal.
"It's nothing but do try to keep your secrets," Chat sighed as she felt she was missing something.
"I am sorry okay Alya figured it out," Arachnid broke down like a house of cards.
"Wait, what?" She and Chat Noir said at the same time.
"That wasn't the secret?" Arachnid paused, "I just outed my self crap. Please don't take my Miraculous away." He clapped his hands together.
"I can't say I am surprised but I am not worried about it. You got Adrian in trouble cause you talked to Lila." He pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Wait so he knows Alya?" She realized, "Nino?" She impulse guessed.
"No way dude," he denied,
"To be honest Alya's only been a few months that kinda limits who he could be my other guess was Adrian. But I saw him running around earlier." She admitted.
"Didn't you warn me about the secret identity thing?" Chat crossed his arms. "I am going home." With that he took off.
"How do you know me?" Nino glanced at her,
"I keep an eye on the blog I guessed her boyfriend." She reminded, "Sorry about the identity thing." She apologized,
"It's no big deal, Chat seemed a bit frustrated I feel like I missed something." he admitted
"I get the feeling he's frustrated. I'll," she started only for her phone to ring.
"Parker?" She answered,
"Perfect I need you to meet me at this address I have something for you." He hung up.
"Rude," she put her phone away, as her earring beeped. "Right,"her day felt like it was already going long but she already had more to do.
"I know where he is at I could figure out what's going on." Nino offered,
"It's fine," she sighed and took off. She needed to get Adrian's phone back so Parker could wait.
She found a safe place just in time. "Eat up Tikki it feels like our day is just getting started.
"Hello Ladybug," she was greeted as she was back at the message parlor. Then his phone went off,
"I," Tikki started only for Fu to hold up a finger to stop her
"I take it this is about the book?" He asked,
"Can he read minds?"
"No, I just got a text about it. Mr. Parker just sent me a digital copy via email." He chuckled,
"Sorry Master Fu, Marinette found the book, I know you said to bring her again." Tikki apologized,
"I feel Mr. Parker is trying to make a point however it doesn't matter this was going to happen regardless." He gave a soft smile as she handed over the phone. However in some ways this is better, don't want anyone getting into trouble over this.
Tikki gave an introduction as she may Wayzz also greater her.
"I guess Mr. Parker's suspicions were close to the mark. Mr. Agreste of all people."
"What." She blinked Gabriel Agreste was her hero to think. That such an incredible designer was the man behind it.
"I should probably get this phone back to Adrian," she looked at the phone. This would be heartbreaking then something didn't add up. Peter said one of their fathers. But Adrian always, he had Burry. Was he faking his control?
"Something on your mind?" He handed her back the phone.
"Is Adrian Chat Noir?" she asked
"I gave them out without asking for names. I call you ladybug. Cause I didn't know your real name well until your brought Tikki in. I could find that out quickly but with how Hawkmoth works I worry about anyone person knowing to much." He explained that wasn't really an answer but then again Mr. Parker might not be telling the truth.
She said good bye and headed off ready to get Adrian his phone back. She moved through the city as she felt more uncertain than ever with the exception being her first time in the suit.
She landed outside his window to see him at the piano. The window almost looked like bars on him and he seemed lonely. She shook her head not wanting to dwell on the spiral of implications of what her Chrush's life was like. She knocked on the window. He brightened at the sight of her, the moment she saw might as well never existed as the world seemed to brighten as he opened the window for her.
"Hi," he took a second to realize she was hanging outside. "Come in," he stepped back
"I don't want to interrupt anything," she glanced at the piano as she stepped in
"Oh, nothing I cann't pause for a superhero and all," he dimmed a bit but now that she had seen it she realized he was really good at appearing happy.
"Won't you get in trouble?" She was she wanted to stay but she had one more visit back.
"I may have a way around this," he admitted as he pulled out his phone. His phone set up and playing piano music.
He opened up a mini fridge and tossed her a water bottle.
"Thanks," she caught it and was sure she sounded confused.
"No thank you wish I had something better to offer but I really appreciate all your hard work." He gave a genuine smile.
"Thank you, but." she wanted to argue that anyone could probably do what she did.
"I know you deserve more for all your hard work. I won't keep you but, I can't express it enough thank you for everything." he turned back to the Piano, Then she found her self listening to his piano work before she remembered she had places to go.
"Um I can't really be friends in costume but would you mind if I listen to you play?" She paused at the window as she broke out of the little spell he had cast.
"I'll keep the window open just for you," he paused in his playing to watch her leave.
"If I didn't know better." she glanced at him however her mind flashed over his behavior. "He really doesn't act at all like Chat Noir," she decided as she checked her phone a single text.
"Everything okay," she shook her head as the soft piano music faded into the distance.
"Miss Ladybug. I want you to keep this on hand." He handed her a watch, well a nice watch but she had a phone.
"YO," a dolphin cried out as he flipped around.
"Another Miraculous but why me, I figured Chat was your go to." She glanced at the watch before she turned a critical eye on him.
"Well I am trying to spread these out, nobody but him was willing to try out the last one." Parker reminded.
"Well I am worth two Kwami anyway," said a dolphin as he floated next to her. "Paired up with Tikki, this should be interesting." He did a spiral.
"Finn the Kwami of innovation." Peter introduced the yellow and red creature.
"The greatest off all," Finn added as he puffed himself up a bit.
"Sounds like someone has an ego," she glanced at then back to the teacher.
"Well loath as I am to encourage such a thing I need you to create a few things for me, and we just might make an honest man out of him." Parker pulled out a list.
"Teenager I can't just buy these things." She glanced at him.
"You have Tikki can't you make things power of creation and all?" He sounded just as confused as her.
"With the lucky charm but I can't just create things at least I don't think so?" She was less sure she really was not sure if there was more but the book implied she needed outside help.
"Can you give it a shot maybe beining an adult will help?" He glanced at her.
"I am not comfortable with that," she answered that old suspicion returning.
"Fair enough long way round it is," he pulled out a few things.
"Your not going to argue?" She was surprised she expected the adult to push the issue.
"I had a teenage daughter." He handed over the gauntlets then what looked like a bulletproof vest. It was like he expected her to turn him down.
"Okay fuse," he nodded this felt weird but she did so. "Iornbug!" She announced, the first thing she realized she was in a full suit of armor. It was weird at first she thought she was captured as the screen lite up with a lot of information and she could see Peter standing back a bit a proud smile on his face.
"Greetings I am Wednesday, current power systems are at full power and estimated usage will drain in thirty minutes, subject to change if usage exceed current perimeters." Said a strangely warm monotone voice.
"You have an AI in here?" She looked at Peter surprised.
"Yes," he answered with Wednesday at the same time.
"The primary reason is to keep you hands free I set this up with," he took a deep breath. "A spider slayer program."
"Spi-,"
"Wait, that's the code phrase don't say Spider slayer program unless you need to. It's very painful. Gabriel was on the ground dealing with the pain. I can it fight it but it is not pleasant."
"Ouch," she admitted,
"be careful this one doesn't have anything like your Ladybug lucky charm but he can incorporate any technology into himself. He can apparently recharge things so that might give you second lucky charm if needed. So keep him in your back pocket and don't use him unless you need to. That being said try to get in some practice. He eats fries so a bit more upkeep then the Cookie Monster but you get the idea."
She nodded as she finally got a look at the fusion. A red primary color with black near the joints a blue light over her heart with black spots over the red. The face looked weird kinda like a weird frown on it.
"I think the mouth might be an issue." She said only for the face plate to shift down exposing her face, with out a mask.
"I am surprised you don't keep the domino mask. Best keep that in mind." He hummed to himself. "Well that's everything, best head off your parents are probably worried." He waved off as he sat down.
"Defuse," she separated as Finn flew over to the plate of fries on at the desk.
The set up was filled with all kinds of tools and material. It kinda reminded her of her set up. "Something on your mind?" He glanced at her.
"Just looking at your set up. You create all this,"
"Oh yeah the guys knows things it's crazy it took me a few seconds to understand him." Finn swooped in as Tikki shook her head.
"Always the enthusiast," Tikki chided,
"You know it, can you blame me while creation is who you are. The act of creating something new and betting is part of life." Finn continued to dance as Peter had a faint smile on his face as the red and yellow mammal explained his passion.
With little more to say she headed out only to swing back to the Agreste mansion. The sound of piano music filled the air and she had a standing invitation as the tree's leaves begain to change.
POV shift
Peter glanced at his workstation he rubbed his eyes as he realized that Marinette had left a while ago and he had fallen asleep. He needed to head home some of the more advanced stuff for Finn was going to take time since he was confident if he worked to fast the government would put him on a watch list. He was a bit surprised to realize he was taking his coffee in the afternoon.
When his phone went off. "Hello?"
"Mr. Parker or should I call you the Guardian?"
"Hawkmoth right?" He asked as he turned on the tv to check the news only to see something was going on at the Agreste mansion.
"Of course, now i already made this offer to Ladybug and Chat Noir I want those miraculous. I want these children pulled. Unless of course you enjoy putting them in danger."
"To such I ask, how does it feel to constantly loose to children?" Peter watched as what looked Like a weird dude in a suit attacked the trio in Adrian's room.
"Simply growing pains," he dismissed the dig.
"Big talk from a voice changer. Natalie don't insult my intelligence." Peter sat down as the phone went silent. Gabriel was probably the victim to try and throw off suspicion.
"If this convinces them so be it, young heroes must be challenged anyway have a good day I need to record this." He turned the phone off just in time to get another call.
"Master Fu," he sat down,
"I am afraid our suspicions have been disproved." Fu sighed, Peter pulled the phone back and shook his head it wasn't worth the argument and Adrian wasn't ready since the idea alone had impacted him really badly even if he hadn't expressed it.
"Perhaps, I'll continue my investigation with this in mind. However regardless that book needs to be kept in our eye least it fall into Hawkmoth's hands." He decided it wasn't worth the effort. Apparently the collector was able to handle the web fluid which was the most effective way of beating Akuma victims.
He wasn't to surprised Adrian dropped in. "You were wrong about my dad." He said in a firm tone he figured the boy was expecting a fight, or looking for one.
"Well I never said I wanted to be right. Mr. Agreste," Peter glanced at him his eyes widened a bit kid should avoid poker.
"Oh, my father was considering pulling me from your lessons said you were unusually interested in me."
"Honestly any parent should be concerned about adults hanging around their children nice to know the man is paying attention."
"You seem, unconcerned," he raised an eyebrow.
"Adrian, what do you want me to be? The man is entitled to his opinion and it's not like if you need to talk you can't find me." He glanced at him, "I am here to help, it's your life, and your the one who needs to live with your decisions."
Adrian looked at the teacher before the silence eventually returned the man to his work. "I would appreciate your help on something else," he finally spoke up.
"What exactly do you need?" Parker paused as he turned to look at him again. He really wished his dad was this easy to talk to.
"I need help to track down my mom. I know my father in spite of the funeral is convinced the issue isn't done, I get the feeling something might have happened to her that would explain why he is so certain. I was always homeschooled but even if my father isn't Hawkmoth he had that book he knows about these things I can't help but wonder if my mother's disappearance might be tied up in all this."
"This will slow me down so I can't promise you this will be something quick. Two years or so is a long time after a disappearance to start looking for people," Parker warned,
"I am not hoping to see her again, I moved past that but I want answers." he locked eyes with him.
"Well then let's get started, when was the last time you saw her and when was the last public sighting." Peter brought out a pad and pencil. "Any detail no matter how trivial could be important."
There wasn't much to go off of the more he talked the more fogy his memory got. It was weird he could remember things before and after her disappearance but the closer he tried to get the harder it was to remember as if something was intentionally getting in the way of his memories.
POV Shift
Nino would not consider himself super-smart Between Alya, Max, Marinette, and Adrian the four of them one could figure something out. However, as Adrian's friend the recent changes were interesting. Most chalked it up to him settling in. Were Kim was usually the only tryhard in gym Adrian was now giving him a run for his money. "You okay dude?"
"The upcoming holidays, I am trying to keep my mind off things," he gave a half-smile, he nodded he was sure that wasn't all of it but he could understand with Christmas on the way. "This will be the first Christmas without her," he admitted,
"Ouch, anything I can do to help," he got an appreciative smile,
"Not really, I just feel guilty I haven't really thought about her much. As much as I could blame my dad for keeping me busy, it's weird I try to think about her and that time seems so fuzzy and worse the time after, I just remember being numb."
"I think that's to be expected sometimes losses can really harm you." He tried to help to be honest when he first met him he did not realize the model had so many hidden little issues, while he considered Marinette better he was the guy being talked to. After class, Adrian went off into his fencing lessons word was that only the teacher was able to touch him on the mat at this point.
"Adrian seemed down," Alya spoke up as he nearly jumped at her sudden appearance.
"Holiday blues, the first year without, well you know," he frowned, she remained silent as the two-headed toward the font of the school.
"So, I hear the Parisian three are going to be on tv tonight," she eyed him. "Not sure how I feel about not getting Arachnid first," she winked at him. He glanced around,
"Ladybug seems okay with the idea, old media and all. Chat seemed very uninterested along with our mentor."
"Chat is the hold out he always struck me as the kind that loves the camera," she blinked in surprise.
"He's been changing a lot in the last few months, not sure if that's a good thing or not, he's training up another Miraculous user and I think he's trying to emulate our Mentor. Like the old dude knows what he's doing like we haven't had any issue thanks to him. I worry about the dude he's a pleaser and I kinda like the way he is now you know?" he tried to explain his mixed feelings on the issue. Mind you Chat Noir hadn't changed to much and Ladybug seemed to appreciate the change even if they seemed distant around each other without a crowd around."
"Training huh, surprised you didn't try to drag me into this," she teased,
"Not sure you want this one Stingg represented betrayal, I am surprised he found someone at all but unlike with me he seems hesitant to bring this newcomer in," he gave a nervous smile, to be honest, he hadn't thought about it but next time the chance came up he would vouch for her. In all honesty, Alya would make an excellent hero.
"I think you guys may not have viewed it the same I think about anyone would be happy to help even if the ideal, isn't ideal," she shook her head.
"I'll keep you in mind if something comes up next time." he gave her a quick kiss. They spent some time together before Alya took off to help Marinette.
"Silkk webs out," he transformed and was on his way to the studio. The idea being that this would keep the public informed in spite of Parker's problems he had to admit the press could cause trouble if turned against them. They agreed there was more to the story but didn't press him on the issue.
He showed up with Chat Noir who was looking at something. "Something up?" he asked,
"Just looking over some of the test results, it seemed all that extra exercise really didn't add to anything," he looked a bit bummed,
"Oh no, you got into better shape for no reason," Nino mocked playfully.
"The only other thing to really test was just spending time in the suit. Which might help, but he was worried it might have weird side-effects," Chat pointed out,
"Like what?" Arachnid glanced at him,
"No idea, but he said anything born of magic is unpredictable by nature, and considering Plagg I can't really argue with him," he chucked a bit the two shared a laugh however something about Chat felt familiar mind you, he spent a bit of time around him but something was up.
He got a little worried as the time slowly as the time clocked down only for Ladybug to show up at the last possible second.
"Cutting it close," Chat shook his head,
"And let the audience down? Never. I'm sorry I'm so late, Nadja." Ladybug apologized the three of them now sitting across from the reporter.
"Good evening. I'm Nadja Chamack and this is Face To Face. For our first edition, I welcome the beloved guardians of Paris, Ladybug, Arachnid, and Chat Noir." Nino waved he had a little experience with the camera but this was different he was representing more than just his own music. "Hello, thanks so much for accepting this exclusive live interview."
"Well thank you Nadja, we are honored to be here,"
"Likewise," he added,
"And hello to all our fans at home," Chat winked at the camera.
"I am sure thousands tuned in just to see you," she laughed,
Nino laughed "Don't encourage him Nagja or the cat won't stop purring all night."
"Oh you worry to much, fame isn't a foreign concept." He waved it off as Nino glanced at him not sure if he was serious or not.
"Really?" She glanced at Chat as he got nervous.
"I know a few people who work in a few industries, who knows you might find Paris's favorite Cat in places you least expect."
"Really, well that brings us back around, as the people know very little about you, how about a few questions from your biggest fans."
"Some topics will be limited," he reminded as she nodded. Ladybug sighed in relief a bit. Nino glanced at Chat as he joked he had vetted the questions.
Nino was hardly surprised that Chloe called in first.
"Yes we know who you are," Nadja she looked annoyed,
"Right my question, how did you guys become heroes?" she asked
"Chat chose me," that got him the focus from the camera. "My character was tested and eventually I proved I was worthy of the responsibility." Nino explained.
"Oh so do you each know each other's identities?" she pointed at his partners.
"No," Chat and Ladybug answered,
"Chat and I can't know each other's identity in case one of us is compromised," Ladybug explained,
"So do you know Arachnid's identity?" She pointed at the two.
"No, only two people know everyone's identities and Chat only knows mine." Nino explained,
"So why Arachnid?" She looked at Chat and Nino was curious about this as well.
"Well he was Akumatized, and I kept running into him. He had a good head on his shoulders and tried to help. So when I was given the task of finding an new partner he was on the short list. I figured people who already been involved would be best since they would understand the gravity of the situation." Chat answered as Nino felt a bit of pride sneak in.
Alya got a call in asking for another interview, and Nino couldn't help but chuckle to himself as his girlfriend was unceremoniously hung up on.
"What?" Ladybugs shriek brought him out of his amusement.
"Can you two confirm that your dating here, tonight?" She asked, he glanced over to Chat wince a bit at the comment be it the volume or the subject matter.
"We are here to protect Paris, that is my only focus in costume." She insisted,
"Well what about these?" Photos of the kids from the Dark Cupid incident.
"When did this happen?" Chat leaned forward to look at the photos since they where close enought to obscure the webbing.
"I was just trying to save you," she looked at Chat.
Then other images popped up as well. "It's so obvious that you two are in love." Nadja pressured and Nino really wished they were sitting opposite Alya she was much more respectful.
"These photos are taken out of context!" Ladybug was getting more animated as she was clearly unhappy with this. Nino sunk a bit as the more she talked the less likely he could wing man Chat. "We're only doing our job. We save the city every day, we're not a couple."
"I'll admit I have interest in her," Ladybug glanced at him, "but Ladybug isn't so out of respect for my partner and Paris we are friends and partners nothing more." His tone was very different a finality slammed down. Even if he could tell that he was forcing a blank expression being very unlike himself.
"Thank you," she smiled at him thankful for the back up. Nino noticed Chat had gripped his own costume
"I got a girlfriend," Nino brought up,
"You do?" She glanced at him a bit surprised as he seized the opportunity to get of the subject. Ladybug couldn't get more frustrated and he knew Chat was probably wrestling with his own emotions.
"yeah," he nodded
"But," Nadja glanced at the photos,
"This interview is over," she moved to grab them only to realize Chat had vanished that stopped everyone as nobody noticed Chat he was the one who had said it. Ladybug frowned in concern as she exited the stage looking for him.
"I guess it is?" She looked at Nino who just gave a shrug. Now he wondered if Chat had left and they completely missed some moment or sentence that they were supposed to fallow him out with.
They actually found him sitting by himself, Nino caught some humongous but he turned around to spot them.
"You could have said something," Nino brought up,
"Sorry I didn't know what to do, then I realized I could just leave. What an odd concept." He smiled but something wasn't sitting right.
"Chat thanks for backing me up in there," Ladybug brought up. As she sat down,
No problem," he forced a smile as Nino was felt really bad. "I am sorry I ever brought up my feelings it feels like all it's done is cause you trouble. I didn't know what to do cause people would sympathize with me but I didn't want to lie I still have feelings. I am sorry. I just I need to go," he suddenly stood up as he looked very uncomfortable as he held his other arm close to his side.
"Chat," Ladybug she reached out for him
"Leave him alone, I understand dude," He nodded,
"I can't help but worry that this is going to end with an Akuma," she watched him vault off into the distance.
"So let's brace for the worst." He figured and the universe seemed to agree.
"Don't be bemused it's just the news,"
"Nadja!" Nino and Ladybug explained as they noticed the massive coverage that was going on.
"Perfect timing," Ladybug slumped a bit.
"Tonight, Ladybug and Cat Noir disappointed all their loyal fans by refusing to admit their love for one another." She continued on as Nino glanced back to see Chat returning looking even more miserable. "I've prepared some trials just to see how far they're prepared to keep the truth hidden from us."
"Should we head back to the studio?" Nino asked,
"I get the feeling she'll find us when she is ready," Ladybug turned serious as the frustration from the interview had vanished.
Not even a few seconds later, "your wrinkling my clothes," Chloe complained, Nino was torn between relief and annoyance if Chloe was a target Alya coup have been pulled.
"Welcome, to the subway of suspense! If it reaches seventy miles per hour, you can say goodbye to you precious little friend." She announced to the camera.
"This is a trap," she looked at the screen,
"Yeah but we don't have time to track this down, to much track and we got a time limit." Nino pointed out, before they could really hash it out Chat was already bulldozing forward.
"How can he be so quiet when he has a bell on?" Nino complained as Ladybug snorted.
They landed as Prime Queen continued, Chloe remained quiet more concerned with the gum on her coat however she kept glancing at Prime Queen.
"You're about to be the stars of the highest rated show in all of TV history!" She laughed, as Ladybug strategized.
However it was quickly realized that they were stuck as even both Chat and himself couldn't pry the door open. "This hole thing is about love, I wish I just kept my mouth shut." Nino paused as he he could see the bitter frustration.
"I understand but you need to be careful." He reminded for a second he thought Chat had ignored him before slowly nodding.
"A superhero never lies!" Ladybug shouted her declaration.
"Does she really think I am that shallow?" Nino caught the whisper as Nino was not sure what to do or say. He needed to talk to Alya she might be able to help. It didn't feel right to tell him to press forward but how do you soothe a broken heart?
"Would you two stop talking I have a plan," she sounded less then enthusiastic. "We need to stall the best way is to give her what she wants."
The amount of mixed emotions that raced over Chat's face made Nino wonder how he didn't explode.
She grabbed Chats hand, "fine you win," Chat froze "I confess Chat and I are dating we are, in love," the train suddenly stopped as Nino remained standing as the other two slammed into each other.
"Did you purr?" Ladybug accused him as Chat couldn't look her in the eye.
"No," he blurted out only for the sound of metal crumpling grabbed their attention. The doors were pried open as Mr. Parker glanced them in the Burry outfit.
"Well that was pointless sorry I am not interrupting anything?" He looked away as Chat and Ladybug separated.
"Alya," Nino recognized and before anyone could say anything he had already leaped around the teacher and shot onto the streets completely forgetting the screens.
POV shift
"A freezer, man this one is crafty," Adrian admitted, as Ladybug went for the door.
"Not the time, Chat," Ladybug frowned, "at least Arachnid didn't fall for this. Would he be fast enough?"
"Oh he'll be fast enough. However it won't matter she can keep snagging hostages we need someway to end this."
"Agreed," she nodded her brow wrinkled a bit. "How are you holding up?" She asked,
"Under different circumstances I would be over the moon M'lady," he curled his fingers as Prime Queen showed her face.
"The time has come to push those ratings sky high! Let's try this again. Remove your Miraculous and reveal your true selves! The whole world is watching you!" She demanded, "this time there is no way out!" She held onto the sarcophagus.
The picture changed showing the museum piece slowly tipping towards the Seine. "Don't bother looking there is no way out unless, unless you want your biggest fan in deep water."
"I need to buy Nino some time, think," he ignored the gasp from Ladybug. "In a freezer I feel like this should be taking place in a grander location." He got a look from Ladybug who leaned forward. "I mean come on at least the place we first faught or the Eiffel Tower, city hall?" He asked, "your a show woman right come on we can do better than this." He blathered on."
"Well," she started, only to suddenly wince "No your identities now!" She demanded, as Adrian wanted to argue but Alya was in danger. "Hurry up the audience is waiting," she returned to her more showy self.
"How about a show of good faith mine first then you let Alya go?" He offered that froze ladybug.
"Fine," he took the ring off before Ladybug could stop him only to realize he had a costume under it.
"You cheeky devil," she had stepped away from Alya.
"Didn't think we would pull that trick off so soon." Plagg giggled in the air.
"Lucky charm!" Ladybug called out. A tape roll dropped into her hand. "Of course," she realized what she needed to do.
"Come on, Nino," he muttered under his breath and then he spotted him in the distance. "What disappointed?"
"Your identity!" She shouted at him as he smiled under the full mask.
"Voilà," she exclaimed, as she covered the screen.
"My perfect image ruined this mask is just not as cool." He put his hand to his forehead in a overly dramatic sigh. Ladybug looked both amused and playfully annoyed.
"So unlucky, it's true," she went along with it. Her fist went through the box as they both grabbed her and pulled her in.
"Claws on!" He slipped the ring back on
Ladybug pinned her and he smashed the with his staff. Then he finally got to destroy a door. "Cataclysm!" He felt a bit better things at the end felt a bit more normal. "Ladies first." He offered as she purified the butterfly.
He took off he wanted some distance. He spotted her look around confused it was the second time tonight he took off without saying anything.
"Mr. Parker," he waved as he dropped down. Nino swung past as he noticed Alya was in his arms holding on a bit intimately.
"Does?" He started,
"I have no idea what your talking about." Parker cut him off. "Not going to head home?"
"Did you ever think about quitting?" he asked,
"Yeah a few times eventually I did when I lost my foot and my first born entered the world. Very eventful day. Early on I had a few issues and I did quite but I didn't stick." Parker continued to look out onto the city.
"I can't seem to get over my feelings. The interview was painful cause part of me wanted to be in a relationship. But she seems so against it it hurt, hearing what you want to hear but knowing it's not genuine. I feel like she could do better than a partner who can't move past himself."
"Could you go back to what you use to do?" Peter asked, "sitting on the sidelines isn't easy after you become a hero."
"No, I like being Chat Noir it's just it's hard being around her like this." He admitted, "however if I leave Chloe would be disappointed for one."
"It will fade besides I think she would miss you," Adrian shifted,
"Can I at least kick myself how did I not know about the kiss. I feel like that should have been all over the internet. My first kiss and I don't even remember it." He playfully complained.
Peter suddenly messed up his hair. "Young love, to be honest nothing help's unrequited love quiet like some junk food and putting yourself back out there in good time. Like being a hero it's all about experience, and if it's meant to be then time means nothing,"
"I didn't realize you were such a romantic." He wasn't sure were the advice ended and reminiscing began with the teacher.