Inconsistency. Chapter 12.
~}I{~
Two days after The Pained Incident, things finally started settling down enough for some progress in Paris that didn't involve the dead.
People have finally processed that mythical creatures are real, but… Yeah, no, after everything that happened and how these people helped everyone… They were fellow Parisians, end of story, period. Although, there is a bit of a double-take when seeing them without their Glamours. And apparently, the lack of Glamours was because of the Pain Wave. It was speculated that the Magicals' Glamours took the 'attack' of the Pain Wave when they broke.
The Glamour thing was being looked at to be fixed.
Paris was still on a strict lockdown. No one but family members and disaster relief personnel were allowed to enter the City of Love… And given the whole 'Magical creatures are real?!' and the damage done to Paris, no one wanted to deal with that skit with foreign media asking questions. Any questions… Yeah, the TVi station in Paris was taking a hiatus from reporting the news outside the locations for food, water, medicine, and construction updates.
Right now, all the Parisians wanted to do was… Was to… Let everything settle so they can truly process everything and to mourn who they've lost.
~}I{~
With schools temporarily closed to be used for make-shift shelters for family to find each other. So far, 80% of living family members have been reunited.
The last thing on the Dupont students' minds was missing their school classes. Not with everything that's happened.
}{
The entire Miraculous group and their families were helping out at the Dupont school building, making sure everyone had water and some snacks. True, they were helping these families, but they were keeping an eye on Max and Markov.
The Techie and the AI have been… Helping out here twice as often as the others, and they were the only ones who haven't visited Marinette yet…
No one could blame either of them, Max lost his mum and Markov lost a constant presence of someone he cares about. Both were clearly trying to keep themselves busy to distract from the pain…
}{
"Uh? Theo? What are you doing here?" Mylene asked the sculpture in confusion.
Theo only glanced up at the multi-coloured-haired girl with sadness written all over his face. He didn't say anything right away, and looked away as Ivan came up to them. Theo sighed before he said, "I-I just needed to get away from the hospital for a bit…" He took a deep breath as he rubbed his hand over his face.
Ivan placed a hand on his shoulder when he asked, "Is Mireille doing okay?"
Theo sighed, staring at the floor, and said, "Physically, the worst she's got was a cut that needed stitches, but mentally…" He placed his face in his hands with a deep sigh. Theo managed to get out, "She hasn't let go of that parasol…" He couldn't stop himself from crying at having that image creep back into his head. Theo couldn't help but weep out, "I don't know if I'm ever going to get my little sister back!"
All Mylene and Ivan could do was offer some comfort.
}{
By the time night fell, Kim took the initiative to get Max and Markov to take a break, even if it was by force.
The techie didn't put up much of a fight, either due to lack of motivation or exhaustion. Probably the latter in all honesty. Max pretty much conked out as soon as he was placed on a make-shift bed. It was solid proof that he was beyond exhausted.
Markov's power was running on fumes and needed to charge, so that was also proof he needed rest too.
Both Mr Lês checked in on them, just to make sure everyone was okay. Kim was about to leave, but Max kept a grip on his shirt even though he was out like a light.
Kim, of course, was conflicted about this, but his dads told him to stay and rest as well. So the tall teen did. Kim couldn't stop himself from gently wipping away the tears that appeared on Max's face as he slept.
}I{
Two more days have passed and things have settled enough to start on repairing Paris.
The City of Love was still on that lockdown where only family and disaster relief personal were allowed in, but other than that there was some "Good" News…
}{
Jazz let out an exhausted sigh when he told his clan, the Miracuclass, their families, and the Drac-U-Allies that all of the Magi Guardians will be meeting their Non-Magical counterparts to discuss the whole 'integrating the two worlds now that the Magical world has been exposed' and then they're going to gather to oversee Lila Rossi's trial. The usually laid-back man waved a hand when he stated, "Granted, only the ones who had casualties who dwell in their country will be directly overseeing the trial, but, of course, it's an international issue so the whole trial is gonna have to be televised to the world."
Tomoe was the first to ask, "Understandable, but may I inquire why you are informing us about it first?" She kept one of her hands on her daughter's as she spoke.
Officer Prowl took a deep breath when he explained, "Because part of the trial will be asking the… Victims of Lila Rossi to gauge how much of her actions were because of the curse afflicting the bracelet or were her own… And given the data we have, Miss Caline Bustier's class are victims of Lila Rossi's actions…"
Oh…
Oh…
Oh…
Oh boy… That's going to re-open the wounds… Especially the bad ones…
Of course, Adrien paled at the realisation and the Dupain-Chengs were already worried about their daughter. The rest of the Miracuclass were visibly uncomfortable at this.
Bella then stated as she folded her arms, "We've already called all the schools that brat has been too, again, and we're going to have to wait on the whole Magical and Non-Magical legality before we get word on if the other victims of Lila Rossi will be able to attend the trial…" She hugged herself as she looked to the side when she added, "However, we do know that one victim isn't going to be able to come no matter what the legal stuff settle on…"
"How come?" Ella and Etta asked innocently in curiosity.
Bella and Laura glanced at each other, unsure what to say. Seras was just as confused as the twins since she was 'out' for most of the 'researching'. Seras's shadow somewhat hovered nearby, keeping close to his host. Al folded his arms in uneasiness. D went straight to the point when he stated, "Hopefully, the classmates and schoolmates will be able to answer what will be asked." The other Dracool siblings gave their oldest sibling a look that read 'okay, true but you didn't have to say anything'.
The younger ones didn't get the implication, the teens had an idea but didn't say anything, and the adults were more aware of what was going on.
Jazz let out another sigh when he stated, "On tha upside, it ain't gonna happen fur a while. At least a month if Ah had a rough estimate." He waved a hand to indicate the nearby buildings when he added, "That'll give Paris… Time ta heal, lets tha Non-Magicals and Magicals find common ground, and get everythin' in order fur tha trial." Jazz then looked at his Clan when he said sadly, "The only thing Ah can't account fur is if Netty's gunna be cleared ta answer any questions fur tha trial…"
Alya couldn't help but question, "Cleared? What does that mean?"
Officer Prowl looked at the teens when he explained, "Being physically able to get to court, healthy enough to stay, and mentally stable to take the strane of the trial. All of which must be checked by the certified doctors from each of thementioned fields."
Otis couldn't help but say, "Oh, wow, The Magical side is… More thorough than this side…"
Greta shrugged when she said, "Yes, but only because it has more 'types' of people with different standards and they have to take curses, hexes, and biological afflictions to consideration." She placed a hand on her cheek when she asked the Dracool siblings, "Speaking of afflictions… I heard that a few humans had to be turned into vampires to save their lives… How are they handling that?"
Seras had a guilty expression when she replied, "Well… They're rightfully upset about it… Can't blame them, they were turned against their will… But once they learned that there were establishments that cater to the basic needs of vampires, they did calm down… They're currently enrolled in a seminar on learning about their new biology and to help them adjust to it…" She sighed as she thought back to the nurse she had to turn, how they were bleeding out due to collapsing on top of several glasses, and how all those glass shards dug into the flesh as blood oozed out… If Seras hadn't turned the nurse, they would've died of blood loss…
The Shadow was quick to wrap itself around its host, somewhat nuzzling her as it did.
Seras patted the Shadow when she said with a small smile, "Thanks, Pip."
Wang Fu couldn't help but glance at all the nearby damaged areas, all were now completely clear of debrie and hazards. He had to wonder if he should've done something to help more. Wang Fu then looked at the bag he was carrying, that Dusuu, Nooroo, and Wayzz were hiding in. 'I was so focused on Hawkmoth and getting the missing Miraculous back that I failed to take notice of the other issues…'
"Given how sudden this issue was, you couldn't have known this would have happened," A sudden and somewhat deep voice said, which caused the Guardian of the Miraculous to jump a bit.
Wang Fu glanced up to see D. At first, the Guardian of the Miraculous was confused as to why the Dhampire was telling him this, but when he thought about those words, he started to understand. Wang Fu eyed the ground with a sigh. The elderly human knew the Dhampire was right, even if it didn't make him feel better.
All that can be done now was to heal and help…
A figure in green walked over to the rather large group, following a Shikigami Doll. His steps were heavy yet oddly light despite the boots he was wearing.
The Dracools and the Lahiffes were the first to hear the new arrival while the Magi Guardian only glanced up at the Shikigami Doll. Soon the others turned to see what got their attention.
The new arrival was a man that was just a head shorter than Tom Dupain, slim but fit, was wearing the Commandement des Opérations Spéciales uniform from the helmat he was holding in his left hand to the sturdy boots he was wearing, had his black hair was shaved in a buzz-cut, had dark brown eyes, a somewhat wide nose, squarish chin, and had a worried look plastered all over his face.
Max's eyes widened at who he was seeing when he got out in shock, "Dad?!"
The man in the army uniform let out a relieved sigh when he managed to get out, "I'm glad that I was able to find you, Max…" He walked over to the surprised techie and a surprised AI when he added, "There was… A communication issue on both parts, so it took a while for me to get word of what happened."
Markov tilted his helm to the side when he asked, "Excuse me, but who are you?"
The man looked at the AI with a baffled expression when he replied, "I'm Sargent Anton Kanté… Max's father." He looked at Markov quizzically when he asked, "Did… Did Max… create you?"
Max looked away from the man when the AI said in a confused tone, "He most certainly did…" Markov then looked at the techie when he asked, "I am confused, I have no data that you had a father yet this man has the same surname as you and is claiming to be your dad. Why is that?"
The man, Anton, had a conflicted expression when he admitted, "Claudie and I have been separated for a few years… Half of it is because of my chosen career." He let out a sigh before he added, "I can't say that I'm surprised that neither Claudie or Max talked about me…" Anton looked at his son, who was avoiding his gaze, when he told him as calmly as possible, "Max… I am sorry for not… Being here as much as I should've but as soon as I was told about the situation in Paris, I came right away."
Max didn't say anything. All he did was walked away.
Anton wasn't surprised by this and simply sighed before he looked at the group. He was quick to notice the grouping and was confused when he asked, "Um… Where is Claudie? I assumed she would've been with Max."
Oh… Seems like Mr Kanté wasn't told that his wife was gone when he learned about what happened in Paris…
}{
Marinette was staring out the window as she laid on the medical bed. She had a sketchbook leaning against her side, but it was unopened and the pencil tucked in its dock, undisturbed.
Currently, Tikki was keeping close to the bluette despite her Miraculous being elsewhere. She was just… The Kwami wanted to keep by Marinette! Tikki had to make sure she was okay! Especially after…
Tikki snuggled closer to Marinette's shoulder to offer some comfort. However, the bluette didn't seem to notice.
The sounds of knocking coming from the door made the Kwami jumped as her attention towards the noise. Marinette didn't even acknowledge the sound. The sound of the knob turning caused Tikki to dart under the bed.
Max poked his head into the room to see if Marinette was still inside. He took a step inside and closed the door softly. Max looked concerned when he realised that Marinette didn't even bother looking to see who just came in. The techie moved towards a chair near the bed and then sat in it.
Things were quiet, even after Tikki floated out when she realised it was someone who was already aware. The little ladybug Kwami then went back to trying to help Marinette out of this, This… Tikki didn't know what to describe the mood of what Marinette was emitting!
And may just sat there, to keep the two some company.
~}I{~
Around the world, the Magi Guardians and the leaders of the Non-Magical world made plans to meet in the corresponding country's capital.
Of course, the bigger countries had more Magi Guardians, so that meant more coordination. But nothing that couldn't be handled… At least on the Magical side.
Yeah, this was still something the Non-Magical side of the world wasn't sure of… But at least they were being diplomatic… Most of them at least…
The country leaders who were more dictators than leaders were learning the hard way that the Magi Guardians were Magi Guardians for very good reasons… Those countries would take a little longer to negotiate with.
~}I{~
It has officially been a week since The Pained Incident and not much has happened aside from what was expected.
People were healing, or trying to…
}{
Seras peeked into Marinette's room to see if anyone was there, and the only one there was the bluette. The blonde woman's expression softened as she walked in and closed the door behind her.
Marinette didn't even acknowledge that someone entered.
Seras took a deep breath before she told the bluette, "Yeah, the first few days are probably the most difficult." She sat in a chair next to the medical bed as she continued, "You're still hurting from what caused you to lose a limb, you still have the muscle memories for said limb, and the phantom pains are at their worst."
Marinette glanced at the blonde woman but kept quiet.
Seras let out a soft sigh before she stated in a serious tone, "But that's not what's got yah in this mood, is it?" The vampire glanced at the stump that used to be the bluette's leg when she added, tone unchanging, "It's the 'How' you lost your leg that's hurting you the most, right?"
Marinette was unreadable when she asked in a sullen tone, "Is that what happened to your arm?" Her voice was horsed from lack of use since the incident.
From her hiding spot, Tikki listened to the whole thing.
Seras nodded when she said, "Yeah… The fucker who took my arm was…" She paused to hunt for the proper term but ended up settling on saying, "A rather nasty sadist who loved fucking with people's minds." Seras let out a dry laugh when she said, "They reaped what they sowed in the end." She then got quiet when she added softly, "It wasn't just my arm that was lost during that battle…"
Seras' shadow curled around its host, gently rubbing against her legs like a cat.
This made Seras smile as she petted the 'head' of the shadow with her right hand. The blonde vampire looked up at Marinette when she said, "I know it'll be hard to look at your missing limb without remembering how you lost it for a while, but don't let it stay as a reminder of what you lost."
Marinette looked like she was about to cry when she croaked out, "How?"
Seras had a sad smile when she said, "I'm gonna be honest with yah, that is something you're going to have to figure out for yourself." She then added with a calmer smile, "But I know that you're not going to be doing it alone."
Tears spilt down Marinette's face as she finally allowed herself to let it all out. And Seras stayed to comfort the bluette.
}I{
Paris was rebuilding…
It was slow, but it was progressing. There were things that still needed to be done, but there was still time…
The lockdown did remain in place, but now it was more to allow the Parisians to settle and prepare for what is to come.
The newly turned vampires, or Fledglings, have come to terms with their pardicament… They weren't mad at the vampires who had to turn them, just mad at the event that caused them to make that choice. They are still getting used to their new biology. But at least they didn't have to hurt people to get the blood they needed to eat.
}I{
Both the President of France and the Magi Guardian of France (Jazz) agreed that they should have a manorial dedicated to those who have been killed due to The Pained Incident created and placed inside Paris. Of course, this would take time to make and it won't be worked on until after Paris has been completely repaired.
But that was fine, there was no rush.
No need to start right away.
To remind everyone of the loved ones that they lost too soon after the event…
The manorial can be planned and designed but the construction won't start until after the International trial…
That should be enough time.
~}I{~
It's officially two weeks after The Pained Incident, and the bodies of the dead were finally being laid to rest in their respective homeland by their loved ones.
The funerals for all these people were, of course, international news. And, of course, the media wanted stories, but, of course, they were denied because the loved ones of the dead wanted to lay them to rest without a media circus.
Paris still kept the lockdown. Now it was more to keep the media vultures away. Even Nadjah Chamack found their actions disgusting as she held her little girl close as everyone said their good-byes to their deceased loved ones.
Max placed his mother's favourite flowers on top of her coffin, as did Markov. A third flower was placed down. Max looked up at his father as they took a step back so that the coffin could be lowered into the grave. Anton hugged his son close as Markov hovered nearby. Max leaned into the contact.
A couple of plots away… Mirielle was crying as she watched the coffin for Aurora lower into the grave. Theo hugged his younger sister close as she clutched the parasol close to her chest.
Of course, the Miraculous Heroes came to oversee everything. Even though they knew it was going to be a mass funeral, but they still couldn't get over the fact that so many had died in a single day…
}{
A video started up and the camera slowly focused on Alya. After a few seconds, the blogger took a breath before she said with a sullen expression, "Hey, The Ladyblogger here." She glanced to the side as she continued, "As you know, Paris is… Recovering from what has been dubbed 'The Pained Incident'…" Alya's attention was back on the camera, "And I'm sure you're all asking 'where is Ladybug?' and 'why hasn't Ladybug used the Miraculous Cure?'…" She paused, looking unsure with how to continue the sentence.
Alya let out another sigh before she opted to hand the phone off to Chat Noir.
The black-clad Hero focused the camera on himself when he stated with as much vigour as Alya currently had, "As much as I know all of us think of Ladybug as an unstoppable force who can handle just about anything, but…" Chat Noir took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, and then said seriously, "She… Ladybug is still human… She can feel pain, she makes mistakes, and…" He bit his lips before he finally got out, "She can get hurt…" Chat Noir took a deep breath before he finally said, but not in a completely calm tone, "And she was among the people who were… In dire need of medical attention… She was in her civilian identity when The Pained Incident occurred…"
Chat Noir let out a soft sigh when he added as he glanced to the side, "And… We tried to use the Miraculous Cure ourselves, but…" He took another deep breath when he finally said, "It didn't work… At first, I thought it was because it wasn't Ladybug who casted it, but… From what was explained to us by the Magi Guardian… Apparently, the Magic behind the Pained Wave was Emotional-Based. Which is very hard to counter due to the volatile nature of it… So, that interfered in the Magic of the Miraculous Cure…" The black-clad hero took a deep breath when he added, "On behalf of Team Miraculous… I apologise for this…" Chat Noir closed his eyes when he said sadly, "I thought the Miraculous Cure could fix anything as long as it fit the cause of damage, but…" He shook his head when he added, "I was wrong… It's not a fix-all spell that can undo anything… It has its limits and things it can't affect…"
The black-clad Hero then said, a little calmer now, "Now for some good news, Ladybug is going to be okay, we all will be okay, but… She needs time to heal… We all need time to heal… Us Heroes will help in that, and soon, Paris will stand once more!"
Chat Noir then finished by saying, "Stay strong and stay with your loved ones, Chat out." And with that the video ended.
The Black Cat Hero let out a relieved sigh as he handed the phone back to the blogger, who looked at him with worry.
Al placed a hand on his ward's shoulder when he asked, "I know it was hard, but it's needed…" Chat Noir only looked up and nodded before he leaned into the older blonde's touch. Al gently hugged the teen.
The group of heroes remained in the location before Chloe, of all people, suggested that they should check on Marinette. of course, this earned some looks, but everyone ultimately agreed to it.
}{
Marinette grunted in annoyance as she nearly lost her balance on the rehab bars, but she managed to catch herself before she fell. The bluette bit her lips as she pulled herself into a more steady position on the bars before she tried again.
Marinette wasn't going to let Lila win this battle! She wasn't going to let this control her! Marinette was going to overcome this!
"Okay, Marinette, you've made some good progress," Seras happily told the teen before she helped the bluette by allowing Marinette to use her as a support until she was back in a waiting wheelchair off of the matted area. Seras then added, "Now you have to let your muscles rest. You can start on crutches tomorrow if the doctors like how your injury is doing."
Marinette nodded before she looked at her stump and said, "I'm surprised they allowed me to start despite…" She couldn't suppress a shutter at this.
Seras had a weary smile when she admitted, "Well, as long as you are mindful of them and you stay on the mats, the doctors are fine with it." She smiled when they stated, "And you were keeping aware."
Marinette smiled as her dad came by to take her back to her room in the medical ward. They gave their goodbyes before the Dupain-Chengs headed off.
It didn't take long before Marinette and Tom ran into the Miracuclass. The young heroes were glad that their Ladybug was doing better. Marinette, in turn, was glad to see her friends again.
Tom stayed as the Miracuclass caught up. Not all were pleasant, because of recent events, but most were good. The Miraculous Heroes learned that Marinette was going to be in a wheelchair until she could find her new sense of balance for crutches.
There was one thing that seemed to relieve everyone was that Marinette's injury was healing nicely.
Tom was beaming when he explained, "The therapy Marinette is undergoing is surprisingly effective!" He then cringed when he added, "Even if it isn't the most eye-pleasing…"
That earned some curious looks when the Miracuclass asked in unison, "What is it?"
Oh, boy… Did that make the father/daughter duo squirm. That made the heroes wonder…
What kind of therapy is this one?
}{
Okay! Okay! Okay!
When the Miraculous group was told that if you were squeamish you couldn't see this type of therapy, they thought the Dupain-Chengs were exaggerating!
But, as it turns out they weren't. At All!
At least no one fainted… Or threw up…
(SQUEAMISH WARNING, PLEASE SKIP TO NEXT BOLD TEXT) (If not, don't be too surprised if it makes you cringe).
A ball of cotton was removed from the large wound and revealed something that one would not expect.
Wiggling, squirming white worm-like creatures the size of the tip of the pinky finger to the first knuckle were just peeking out of the gaping wound in the flesh. True, the sudden light from having the bandages removed made them a lot more rambunctious as they wiggled around in the bloodied flesh. But they settled down pretty quickly when they realised that they weren't in any immediate danger, and then started back on munching on the decaying parts of the flesh with their itty, bitty mouths. Only wiggling through the blood to get to some flesh that was more appealing to them.
(WARNING END)
"Okay, looks like it's going to be another day or so before we have to remove them and give you a new batch, but your injury is healing quite nicely, Ms Dupain-Cheng," The doctor stated as they shown the light of the little torch to check on the wound to make sure that there weren't any decay or purple spots. The doctor turned the torch off when they added with a smile, "Just keep the mobility therapy to the current recommended level and keep pressure off the injury, and you're good to go until tomorrow."
The doctor started placing cotton over the wound and started re-wrapping the stump.
"Thank you, doctor, and I will!" Marinette said with a smile.
Once the bandage was back in place, the first person to finally say something was Sabrina in shocked and disgusted, "What the hell?! This is a type of therapy?! That's completely nasty!"
Yeah, not the calmest response, but it was the most accurate statement that the Miraculous Heroes had to the… Maggot Therapy.
Sabine was the one to say, "Which is why we told you to wait until the doctor finished checking." She let out a breath when she admitted, "Although I can't blame you for the reaction…"
The doctor seemed rather used to this when they explained calmly, "True, maggots don't have the best reputation, but they are good at what they do. And we can use them to prevent infections in large injuries and if there are issues after medical procedures."
"HOW?!" was the unanimous question from the Miraculous Heroes.
The doctor directed the group to a series of posters that apparently was made for just such an occasion when they explained, "As you know, maggots are little eating machines. However, they will only eat dead or decaying flesh, they won't touch anything that's still healthy or alive."
They pointed at the first poster, which depicted a rather cartoony maggot looking very happy to see a cartoony steak that was turning black and had some spots that looked like it was rotting, and another cartoony maggot turning it's nose up in disgust at a nice, fresh steak.
The doctor directed the group to the next poster as they continued to explain, "Therefore, they are perfect for combating necrosis, or dying body tissue, and preventing gangrene, or dead body tissues caused by infections. Since maggots eat the dead tissues, they starve the bacteria that cause necrosis and gangrene of their food source and end up killing those bacteria before they can take hold."
The poster depicted a cartoon maggot in armour with a shield and sword getting ready to fight two cartoony images that appeared to represent necrosis and gangrene with evil expressions on their cartoony faces. There were little evil bacteria minions by the base of the big bodies.
Mylene couldn't help but ask, "But… Don't maggots carry diseases and all that bad stuff?"
The doctor understood the question and had a ready answer, "They normally do because of their parents' rather unsavoury natures in the wild, and there are some species that have maggots that are quite toxic and aren't good humans. However, the maggots we use are from the Standard Blow Fly, a species that is very harmless to humans in both forms. And they are bred in a completely sterile environment, therefore, are completely clean and safe to put in a wound."
The next poster depicted a little cartoon maggot wrapped in a baby bundle, it even had a pacifier, within a pure white and clean room. There was a bold text underneath that read 'Born clean to keep you clean'.
Nath couldn't help but say, "Okay, that's kind of cool…" He cringed when he added, "Gross, but cool."
Chloe stuttered when she stated in disgust, "No offence, but there is no way you are putting those things in any of my wounds!" She visibly shivered when she added, "Urg! I can already feel them squirming!"
Marinette couldn't help but explain, "Actually, you don't really feel them when they're hatchlings, or the few days afterwards. It's usually when it's time to take them out that I've felt them, and that's usually because they're larger. And to be frank, I would rather have maggots in my wounds than an infection or rotting flesh." She somewhat rubbed where the bandages started when she added, "But I guess between the pain medication and the phantom limb stuff, it might not be so easy to notice if you don't see them."
Tom placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder when he said, "That may be a factor… But since it is working with healing and sealing your wound, I am very much grateful for the maggots." He couldn't help but say in a slightly humorous tone, "Although, I can't say that we can serve them anything that they might like eating."
This earned a few wiry laughs and some dry chuckles.
The doctor had a wiry smile when they said, "True, Maggot Therapy isn't for everyone and a lot of people aren't going to be willing to… Participate in this unless there is no other choice, but the maggots are the best option when all other medicines fail or cause too much pain for the person."
The group noticed a passing nurse with a dozen small containers of newly hatched maggots on a tray when the doctor with them added sadly, "But with all the… Recent injuries from that… Incident… There's little chance to say no to Maggot Therapy without risking a serious infection or early decay," They were sad when they said softly, "I honestly wish that such an event wouldn't be the thing to show that maggots are an effective medical tool…"
Everyone was silent for a bit before Marinette finally said softly, "True… But I'm thankful that they were an option…" She couldn't help but say with a small chuckle, "Granted, I'm not going to go out of my way to breed and feed them, but I'm glad that there are medical maggots."
The doctor had to laugh at the quip but was quick to tell the bluette that she shouldn't try to breed or even feed wild maggots, that would cause problems for her neighbourhood and her parents' bakery.
It was nice to see Marinette back to her usual self.
}I{
By the three and a half week mark, the Heroes from some of the other countries were allowed into Paris. Under specific guidelines and conditions…
Of course, Alya was geeking out at all the Heroes in Paris. But, she didn't go racing out to catch them on film like she would've in the past. Right now, at least.
Now, Alya and Nora were… Helping the Lahiffes with getting everything they needed for the Full Moon, and learning how were-creatures prepare for such events…
Food that didn't need to be cooked, frozen, or refrigerated, and can be opened easily enough. Comfortable blankets. A couple of throw pillows that had shirts covering them. Spare clothing. Extra set of glasses. An MP3 Player with some good, calming tunes. And toiletries for after the Full moon.
It wasn't that much of a surprise, yet it still was. As was the were-wards that they went to.
The people working there asked some questions relating to Nino's typical behaviours during the Full Moon, which Greta and Winnie answered readily. Nino did throw in a few things that he could remember when he's in his Full-Moon Form.
One of the workers looked over the answers before saying, "Okay, even with the side-effects of the suppressant spell, Nino seems to be Low-Risk and will be given a room in the Morning Glory section."
Alya couldn't help but ask cautiously, "Is that good?"
The worker nodded when they explained how their grouping system worked and that they had three sections. The Morning Glory area was for were-creatures that aren't violent or prone towards violence during their Moon Phase. So these rooms didn't need to be secured as much but they did have a lock on the inside for the were-creature to engage for their peace of mind. The Night Jasmine area were for were-creatures that did have some tendencies towards violence or were territorial during their Moon Phase, so these rooms were more secured with shatterproof windows and locks on both the outside and inside of the door. The Moonflower areas were for the were-creatures that were always violent and extremely territorial during their Moon Phase, so these rooms were like the Night Jasmine rooms but with bars on the windows and only had locks on the outside of the doors.
All the rooms were rather comfortable-looking and were painted a mellow colours. Which wasn't what Alya and Nora were expecting, in a good way.
The Lahiffes do have a room in their place that was just like the were-ward's rooms, but with the side-effects of the suppression spell, they would rather be safe and sure rather than risking Nino hurting himself or others.
And this answered one of the questions Nora had regarding the suppression spell. It was a temporary fix for a specific situation and would fester the symptoms when they next appear.
Yeah, that's why that suppression spell isn't so widely used. Makes sense.
At least Nino will be safe and okay.
}I{
Paris was mostly repaired and healed by the five week mark. Sure there were still some trauma triggers for some people in certain areas, but at least everyone was safe… On the healing path.
Schools started back up without much fanfare… Of course, the students that weren't allowed to leave the hospital couldn't attend… Not much anyone could do about that outside bringing the hospital-bound students their schoolwork.
There was a nice little memorial wall for the students who died during The Pained Incident. It wasn't that much of a surprise that there were flowers by the memorial before the first day back ended.
}{
The next trip to visit Marinette brought some news. Both good and bad.
In a meeting room of the hospital, Jazz and Officer Prowl told the Miraculous team this news. To get it out of the way, they started with the bad news.
Officer Prowl took in a deep breath before he looked at Adrien and stated, "As all of you know, everyone who could testify to Lila Rossi's character witness in her trial will be there."
Kim nodded when he stated, "We're aware." He noticed where the homicide officer's and the Magi Guardian's gaze were and wondered why that was happening.
Rose then asked worriedly, "Is there something that changed about that?"
Jazz's lips pressed in a line when he stated carefully, "Nothin's really changed as much as certain individuals are gonna be… Attending tha trial that Ah don't think everyone's gunna like." His attention didn't leave the blonde boy.
Wait a minute…
Oh!
Oh!
Oh! Shit!
Adrien stiffened at the realisation when he almost hissed out, "Please tell me that bastard of a sperm donor isn't going to be at this trial!"
"Oh!" Jazz got out as both of his brows shot over his visor before saying, "That's a tellin' statement."
Officer Prowl remained silent as the deep red studs on his ears gleamed slightly in the light.
Adrien sucked in a breath at the realisation of a lack of answer and buried his hands in his hands when he got out in a mixture of annoyance and anger, "Shit!" Nino and Chloe patted him on the back when Adrien got out without moving, "Is it because she worked for the Gabriel Brand and that he personally hired her?"
Officer Prowl glanced at Jazz, and he him, when he said carefully, "That is part of the reason why he's going to be there…" He sighed when he added, "At least there will be some time between when Hawkmoth is questioned and when Gabriel Agreste is questioned,"
Wait a second?
Why would 'Hawkmoth' be involved in the character witness for Lila's trial?
…
…
…
Oh! You have got to be!
Chloe scowled when she growled out, "Should we be surprised that that leech was colluding with Hawkdick?"
Juleka couldn't help but slide in, "Please don't insult leeches."
Jazz rubbed his temples when he stated, "It would seem like it… And from what Ah got from questioning Agreste 'bout his possible boss/employee relationship with Lila Rossi, on both sides of his persona, she knew he was Hawkmoth… Because he told her," He let out a sigh when he added, "Nathalie's questioning confirmed these facts and she's gonna be there taa,"
Oh, was Adrien Not taking that well, and no one could blame him…
Officer Prowl looked at Jazz when the Magi Guardian stated, "Yah can step out until both questionings are over, but…" There was a soft sigh that passed through Jazz's lips before he added in a bit of a worried tone, "Ah recommend yah at least stay fur tha first part of Gabriel Agreste's questioning…"
The only word Adrien responded with was, "Why?"
Made sense. He didn't want anything to do with Gabriel Agreste anymore, so why would he want to sit there and listen to whatever the dick says?
Jazz's lips pressed in a line when he stated carefully, "Ta be honest… Ah think it'll be betteh ta hear it from tha guy himself rather than a second-hand account… Even if yah already made yahr choice regarding him…"
This didn't ease the feelings Adrien had. But, the Miracuclass assured the blonde boy that they'll be by his side the whole event.
Officer Prowl glanced worriedly at Jazz, as did Tikki from her hiding spot.
And now for the good news.
The lockdown was lifted, provided that the people coming in behaved themselves and didn't make it a trip to make a scoop about The Pained Incident, there has been some progress with fixing the Glamours for the Magicals, and progress between bridging the Magical and Non-Magical worlds is in full swing despite some annoying issues from a group called 'The Huntsclan'.
This was good.
~}I{~
By the three month mark, news of a memorial for those who have died during The Pained Incident was one of the leading stories on the French news. Of course, the TVi covered this and went over the rough time frame of when the memorial will be completed.
This was something that the city of Paris was hoping for. A chance to have more than a headstone to remember the fallen.
There was some debate on where the memorial should be, but the Parisians settled on a location. One that everyone agreed to after it was suggested.
~}I{~
It has now been four and a half months since The Pained Incident, and there has been a confirmation date for the trial of Lila Rossi.
Now that all the countries' leaders and their corresponding Magi Guardians have come to a mutual agreement, they managed to arrange a time and location for this trial.
The other issue was the international news that would, for sure, have to cover this trial. Of course, the TVi Station would be representing France. But each country will have to figure that out on their own. Hopefully, before the trial.
~}I{~
Marinette hobbled onto the school grounds on her brand new arm crutches. Her stump was still wrapped, but that wasn't important right now.
Marinette looked up at the school building. It's been months since she's been here, but despite that, she was able to keep up with the school work that her classmates have been bringing her. Now that she's got the go ahead from her doctor…
Marinette took a deep breath before she made her way to the entrance to the building. She had to use the wheelchair walkway to get into the school. Soon enough, Marinette made it into the building.
Of course, the bluette got some looks from the students who haven't seen her since before The Pained Incident. And, of course, they were taken by surprise by the fact that they were so used to seeing two legs on the bluette. Just because. Marinette expected the looks didn't mean she liked them…
She made her way to the school's lift and used it to get to the 1st floor. Then made a beeline to Miss Bustier's class.
The rest of the class happily greeted their Ladybug when she hobbled in. Marinette returned the greetings with a smile. She made her way to her new seat next to Nino in the front right row. Marinette propped her crutches next to her desk as the class started. Her deep red earrings gleamed under the light.
Things were slowly going back to normal. A new normal.
~}I{~
Almost six months after The Pained Incident, the day of Lila's trial was drawing near.
~}I{~
To be continued.
~}I{~
Author's Note: Sooooo… Maggot Therapy is an actual thing in the real world and is honestly very effective. Might not be the prettiest thing to look at, but on the other hand, it's a hell of a lot better than getting a nasty infection that can cause necrosis and gangrene. I might not be writing it accurately, but I figured I'd share it because it's surprisingly fascinating.
~}I{~