Story #30: Miraculous Morro
Ninjago/Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir crossover
writing prompt (modified): costume party
Summary: Morro and his friends, the Ninja, are middle-school students at the same school Marinette and Adrien attend. Tonight, there's a big costume party—but Morro isn't really as interested as the other Ninja are. He's been a shy wallflower since Day 1, always keeping to himself, even at school. But when his girlfriend, Tasha, takes an akuma for him, will he miraculously bloom into a confident kwami holder as he becomes the one and only Wolf Pup?
The school gym was buzzing with excitement as students mingled in their creative costumes. Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane, Lloyd, and Nya were scattered throughout the room, enjoying the festive atmosphere. Morro, however, stood off to the side, staring intently at his phone, seemingly oblivious to the party around him.
Tasha, dressed in a stunning ninja costume that reflected her unique style, noticed Morro's distant expression. She weaved through the crowd and approached him with a concerned look.
"Hey, Morro," she said gently, touching his arm to get his attention. "What's up? You've been in your own world since we got here."
Morro glanced up, his eyes flickering with anxiety. "Sorry, Tasha. I'm just...nervous. There are so many people, and it's...overwhelming. I'd rather be browsing the Ladyblog than dealing with this." He sighed, glancing around the crowded room. "Especially with Chloe around."
Tasha gave him an understanding smile. "I get it. Chloe can be a handful. But hey, you're not alone in this. We're all here together, and you've got me by your side." She squeezed his hand reassuringly.
Just as Tasha was about to lead Morro towards their friends, Chloe's voice rang out across the gym. "Adrikins!" she called, clinging to Adrien's arm like a limpet. But her eyes quickly shifted to Morro, and she let go of Adrien, striding over with a determined look.
"Well, if it isn't the mysterious Morro," Chloe said, flipping her hair with a dramatic flair. "Why don't you dance with me, handsome?"
Morro's expression hardened. He glanced at Tasha, then back at Chloe. "I already have a girlfriend," he replied coldly, wrapping an arm around Tasha's waist. "And I'm quite happy with her, thanks."
Chloe's eyes widened in surprise, and she huffed indignantly. "Well, excuse me!" she said, tossing her hair again before turning on her heel and marching away.
Tasha chuckled softly and squeezed Morro's hand. "Nice job. Now, let's see if we can enjoy the rest of the party, okay?"
Morro managed a small smile, feeling a bit more at ease with Tasha by his side. "Yeah, let's do that."
The party was in full swing when Marinette finally rushed in, slightly out of breath and adjusting her costume. She looked around, trying to think of a suitable excuse for her lateness, but nothing convincing came to mind.
Morro, still lingering near the edge of the crowd, noticed her arrival. He quietly commented, "I never expected you to be late to a costume party."
Marinette turned to stare at him, caught off guard by his remark. She recognized Morro from her class but realized she didn't know him very well. He had always kept to himself, much like she often did.
For a moment, they just stood there awkwardly, Marinette fiddling with the hem of her costume and Morro glancing down at his phone. Then Marinette noticed the same shyness in his eyes that she often felt. It was a small but significant connection.
"Hi, Morro," she said with a shy smile. "I, um... got caught up in something. But it looks like you're not too into the party either."
Morro gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. "Yeah, not really my scene. Too many people."
Marinette's smile grew a bit more confident. "Same here. Maybe we can, you know, stick together for a bit? It might be less overwhelming."
Morro looked at her for a moment, then nodded again. "Yeah, I'd like that."
As they slowly started to navigate the room together, Marinette found herself intrigued by this quiet classmate who seemed to mirror her own awkwardness in social situations. It seemed to her that this might just be the beginning of an unexpected friendship.
Morro, stammering slightly, introduced Marinette to Tasha. "Uh, Marinette, this is Tasha. Tasha, Marinette."
Marinette smiled warmly at Tasha, who grinned back. "Nice to meet you, Tasha," Marinette said.
"You too, Marinette! I've heard a lot about you," Tasha replied cheerfully.
The two girls seemed to hit it off immediately, chatting about their costumes and the party. But, as if on cue, Chloe appeared with a smug look on her face.
"Well, well, if it isn't Morro and his little girlfriend," Chloe sneered. "Honestly, Tasha, I don't know what you see in him. He's such a sulky wallflower, and you're so...bubbly and outgoing. It doesn't make any sense."
Morro's face fell, and his eyes welled up with tears. He was very emotionally sensitive, and Chloe's words cut deep, slashing deep into his core like a dagger of corrupted ice, penetrating deep into his soul and twisting taut. Without a word, he turned and ran off sobbing, leaving his phone behind on the table.
Tasha immediately picked up his phone, her heart aching for Morro. She knew how much Chloe's words must have hurt him. Remembering the three rules of living in this magical city—don't overreact, don't go anywhere alone, and if you see a purple-and-black butterfly, run!—she took a deep breath and hurried after him, hoping to comfort him and remind him of how special he really was, before Hawk Moth could get to him.
High above the bustling streets of Paris, in the eerie stillness of his darkened lair, Hawk Moth stood by the window, his gaze fixed on the city below. He could feel it—a spike of negative emotion, sharp and potent. Someone's heart had been wounded deeply, and it was ripe for his manipulation.
He closed his eyes, focusing on the source of the distress. The image of Morro, his face tear-streaked and filled with sorrow, came into sharp focus in Hawk Moth's mind, and a cruel smile curled maliciously on his lips.
"Ah, Morro," Hawk Moth murmured, his voice dripping with malevolence. "A shy, sensitive soul crushed by cruel words. Perfect. You will be my ultimate instrument of chaos, you little scribble on a scroll."
Extending his hand towards the butterfly in his grasp, Hawk Moth intoned, "Fly away, my little akuma, and evilize him."
The akuma fluttered its wings, black as night, and took off into the sky, cutting through the Parisian night like a dark omen, on its way to find the unsuspecting Morro.
Morro sat alone in an empty hallway, his quiet sobs echoing mirthlessly off the walls. His head was buried in his hands, and he was crying too hard to speak, the weight of Chloe's cruel words pressing heavily on his heart.
Suddenly, Tasha appeared at the end of the hall, her eyes scanning for Morro. She rushed to his side, concern etched all over her face. "Morro, are you okay?" she asked, kneeling beside him. But Morro was too overwhelmed by his emotions to respond.
Just then, a dark shape fluttered into view—a sinister akuma, drawn to Morro's despair. Tasha's eyes widened in horror as she realized it was heading straight for him. Without thinking, she pushed Morro out of the way, shouting, "Run, Morro! Run!"
The akuma struck Morro's abandoned phone, still in Tasha's hand. She gasped as a dark energy enveloped her, and she felt Hawk Moth's voice invading her mind. "Empath, I grant you the power to warp emotions," he intoned. "In exchange, I only ask one thing in return—that you bring me the Miraculous of Ladybug and Cat Noir."
Tasha, her eyes now filled with a cold determination, nodded. "Yes, Hawk Moth," she said, her voice steady and resolute. "I will bring you their Miraculous."
Morro, witnessing the transformation, felt his heart shatter at the sight. He knew he had to act quickly to keep his friends and everyone else—yes, even Chloe—safe from this new threat.
"I've gotta warn the others—there's an akuma attack!" Morro thought desperately as he fled, his mind racing with fear and urgency as he scrambled to tell his friends what had happened.
Morro scurried back to the others as fast as his legs could carry him, his heart pounding in his chest. The gym was still filled with the lively chatter of students, making it impossible for him to alert anyone about the akuma attack, and his voice was drowned out by the noise as he screamed helplessly, "Guys! There's an akuma on the loose! Can anyone hear me?! I'm telling you, there's an akuma on the loose!"
Just as he was about to give up hope, a sudden eruption of screams cut through the overwhelming noise. Heads turned, and eyes widened in shock as Empath made her dramatic entrance.
Empath's costume was a dark, twisted version of her original ninja outfit. Her once vibrant and colorful costume had transformed into a sleek, black and deep purple ensemble. The intricate patterns on her costume now glowed with a sinister purple light, and her eyes were a haunting, luminescent shade of violet. Her mask covered most of her face, leaving only her piercing eyes visible, and her hair flowed freely, streaked with dark shades.
In her hand, she held a staff, pulsating with dark energy. The aura around her seemed to warp and distort, as if the very air was trembling with her newfound powers. She exuded an aura of both beauty and menace, a living embodiment of the emotional turmoil she could now control.
Morro's heart sank as he watched Tasha—no, Empath—standing there, ready to wreak havoc. He knew he had to find Ladybug and Cat Noir, and fast. I've gotta warn them! he thought, determination fueling his every step. But where were those two heroes when he needed them most?!
Oblivious to Morro's silent determination and fear, Empath raised her staff, dark energy pulsating from its tip. With a wicked smile, she took control of the microphone system. Her voice echoed throughout the gym, chilling everyone to the bone.
"The party is over," she announced, her voice dripping with malice. "From now on, your emotions are mine to warp as I please."
Kai, ever the brave one, stepped forward to confront her. "You can't just take control like that!" he shouted. But with a swift strike of her staff, Empath sapped away his confidence. Kai's eyes widened in fear, his posture slumping as he clutched at his chest.
"W-what's happening to me?" Kai stammered, his voice trembling. "I... I don't feel like myself anymore..."
His once fiery spirit now seemed extinguished, replaced by a crushing sense of doubt. The confident hero everyone knew had been reduced to a shadow of himself, and it was clear how deeply Empath's powers had affected him.
As panic spread among the students, Marinette and Adrien exchanged a quick glance and bolted for a safe place to transform. They darted into an empty classroom, and Marinette quickly called out to Tikki, who emerged from her hiding spot in Marinette's purse.
"Tikki, we've got to stop Empath before she causes any more damage," the teen hero said urgently.
Tikki nodded, giving her a reassuring smile. "You can do this, Marinette."
"Tikki, SPOTS ON! Yeah!" With that, Marinette transformed into Ladybug, the familiar suit enveloping her. She wiped one hand across her face, causing a mask to appear as her civilian clothes changed into a sleek red and black outfit, complete with her yo-yo at her side and two hair ribbons to match her ladybug-patterned earrings. Just as she finished her transformation, Morro, still fleeing from the chaos, unknowingly followed the same path and saw her transform.
Had Morro's jaw not been attached, it would have fallen off his face and onto the floor. Shy, hesitant Marinette…and bold, confident Ladybug…were the same person?!
Ladybug, now fully transformed, turned and saw Morro staring at her, wide-eyed. Her heart skipped a beat—he had seen everything, down to the last detail. But before she could react, Morro quickly spoke up. "I promise—I won't tell! I just want to help! That's my girlfriend you have to fight!"
Ladybug's eyes softened with understanding at Morro's words and the desperate trust written all over his face. "Alright, Morro. I believe you. Let's go stop Empath and save Tasha."
With a nod, Morro and Ladybug raced back to the gym, ready to face the threat together as one.
Meanwhile, Adrien had found a hiding spot inside a locker, a bit cramped but sufficient for his transformation. He glanced at Plagg, who was still munching on cheese and crackers from the party.
"Plagg, we need to transform now!" Adrien whispered urgently, trying to avoid drawing attention.
Plagg, with his mouth full, gave Adrien a dismayed look. "Seriously? Right now?" he grumbled, crumbs falling everywhere. "I'm still enjoying my snack!"
"No time for that, Plagg. We've got to stop Empath!" Adrien insisted, taking a deep breath.
Plagg sighed, reluctantly abandoning his cheese. "Fine, fine. Let's do this."
"Plagg, CLAWS OUT!" Adrien shouted, lifting his right hand into the air as Plagg spiraled into his Cat Ring. With a flash of green light, Adrien transformed into Cat Noir, his suit fitting perfectly despite the cramped space. Now ready for action, Cat Noir slipped out of the locker and dashed to join Ladybug, determined to save the day.
As Ladybug and Morro made their way back to the gym, Ladybug quickly pulled out her Yo-yo and used it to call Cat Noir on his Cat Phone.
"Cat Noir, do you copy?" Ladybug's voice crackled through the speaker.
Cat Noir, already on his way, answered promptly. "Loud and clear, m'lady. What's the situation?"
"Empath has taken over the gym and is warping everyone's emotions. We need to stop her before she causes more damage," Ladybug explained. "Also, I've got Morro with me. He saw me transform, but he's on our side. He wants to help save Tasha."
Cat Noir paused for a moment, then responded with his usual confidence. "Got it. Morro's with us. I'm on my way. Let's stop Empath and save the day!"
Ladybug nodded, feeling reassured by Cat Noir's response. "See you soon, Cat Noir. Stay safe."
With that, she ended the call and turned to Morro. "Ready to do this?"
Morro nodded, determination in his eyes. "Let's go save Tasha."
Back in the gym, Empath raised her staff high, its dark energy pulsating menacingly. One by one, she targeted the Ninja, each falling prey to her emotional manipulation.
Jay, usually so full of humor and lightheartedness, was struck first. His laughter turned to uncontrollable sobbing, his normally cheerful demeanor shattered by overwhelming sadness. "Why can't I stop crying?" he wailed, collapsing in distress to his knees.
Next was Cole, the stalwart rock of the group. Empath's power sapped away his strength and resolve, leaving him feeling weak and helpless. "I can't do this," he muttered, his voice trembling. "I'm not strong enough."
Zane, the logical and calm ninja, was overwhelmed by a sudden onslaught of fear and anxiety. His usually clear mind was clouded with panic. "What if we can't stop her? What if we fail?" he whispered, his eyes wide with terror.
Nya, fierce and determined, found herself paralyzed by indecision. Empath's influence caused her to doubt every move she made. "What if I make the wrong choice? What if I mess everything up?" she murmured, her confidence eroding.
Finally, Lloyd, the leader and beacon of hope, was consumed by despair. His hope and optimism were crushed under Empath's power. "It's hopeless. We're never going to win," he said, his shoulders slumping in defeat.
As the Ninja succumbed to their warped emotions, Hawk Moth's voice echoed in Empath's mind. "Well done, Empath," he said with satisfaction. "Ladybug and Cat Noir won't be far behind. Prepare to face them and bring me their Miraculous."
Empath nodded, her expression a mix of determination and sorrow. "Yes, Hawk Moth," she replied, gripping her staff tightly. "I won't let you down."
Just then, Morro skidded to a stop in front of his akumatized girlfriend, screaming, "Tasha! Stop! Don't let Hawk Moth control you! You have to fight it!"
Empath just chuckled mirthlessly, her staff lighting up with a sinister purple glow as she attempted to strike him down. As Empath's dark energy swirled around Morro, she focused all her power on him, her eyes gleaming with malicious malevolence, every shred of the loving girlfriend she'd been down the drain. "Morro, your heart is full of fear and sorrow. Let me take that pain away," she said, her voice echoing with an eerie calm. "Let me show you how powerful emotions can truly be."
Morro clenched his fists, fighting back with all his might. He could feel the darkness pressing in, but something deep within him resisted. "No… I won't let you control me," he stammered, his voice shaking but determined.
Empath's eyes narrowed as she intensified her efforts, her staff glowing with dark energy. "Why do you resist? You could be free from all this pain if you just give in," she taunted, her voice laced with temptation.
Despite the overwhelming pressure, Morro stood firm, his determination unwavering. "I won't let you win. I won't let you hurt anyone else," he declared, his voice growing stronger. With a final grunt of determination, he shattered Empath's bind on him and leaped backwards to safety, using his Ninja reflexes to flip out of her reach.
In the shadows, Hawk Moth watched the struggle through his connection with Empath. Panic flashed across his face as he realized what was happening. "Perhaps Morro is more powerful than I thought," he muttered, his usual confidence shaken. "Empath, be careful and stay alert! Ladybug and Cat Noir will be there any moment."
Back in the gym, Ladybug and Cat Noir were busy trying to pinpoint the akuma. Ladybug's eyes scanned the room frantically. "We need to find it, Cat Noir!"
Cat Noir, equally anxious, kept searching. "It's gotta be here somewhere…"
Morro's voice cut through the confusion. "The phone! It's in my phone! She was holding it when she was akumatized!"
Ladybug's eyes widened with realization. "Of course! But where did she put it?"
Empath, sensing the heroes' confusion, had cleverly hidden the phone somewhere out of reach. She sneered at them from her vantage point, knowing full well that if Ladybug and Cat Noir got too close, they risked having their emotions warped as well.
Morro, still resisting the effects of Empath's power, looked around frantically. "We have to find it, but we need to be careful!"
Ladybug nodded, her mind working quickly to devise a plan. "Cat Noir, we need to distract her while we search. Morro, stay close and let us know if you see anything."
Cat Noir grinned, ready for action. "You got it, m'lady."
Every second counted, and they knew they had to stick together, for together they were strong.
As the conflict escalated, Empath's eyes locked onto Cat Noir, her staff pulsing with dark energy. "You're next, kitty cat," she said, her voice dripping with menace.
Before Cat Noir could react, Empath's power struck him, and he felt his usual confidence and bravado ebb away. Doubt and insecurity began to cloud his mind. "What if I'm not good enough to stop her?" he whispered, his voice trembling as he crumpled to his knees, shaking with barely contained sobs.
Seeing Cat Noir falter, Empath moved in to take his Miraculous. But before she could reach him, Morro leaped into action, striking out with a burst of Wind energy that knocked Empath back. Cat Noir's ring was safe, for now.
"Stay with me, Cat Noir!" Morro shouted, trying to snap him out of the emotional haze.
Cat Noir blinked, trying to focus and shaking off his despair in the flick of a cat's tail. "Morro... thanks," he managed to say, his voice still quivering but more determined.
Morro quickly realized that to defeat Empath, they would need to work together. He began to think of how they could use their strengths to complement each other. "We can't let her get to us," Morro said, his mind racing. "We need to keep moving, keep her off balance. Ladybug, you use your agility to distract her. Cat Noir, use your staff to keep her at bay. I'll try to find the phone and neutralize the akuma."
Ladybug nodded, her eyes filled with determination. "Alright, Morro. Let's do this."
With a newfound sense of teamwork, Ladybug, Cat Noir, and Morro moved into action, each playing their part to outmaneuver Empath and save the day.
As the battle with Empath escalated even more, Ladybug knew it was time to activate her Lucky Charm. She took a deep breath and called out, "Lucky Charm!"
In a burst of red and black magic, a tiny wolf mask appeared in her hand. Ladybug stared at it, puzzled. It wasn't immediately clear how this would help them. Normally, she could see the pieces of the puzzle falling into place, but this time, everything seemed disjointed.
Ladybug turned the mask over in her hands, trying to figure out its significance. "What does this mean?" she muttered, her mind racing. She glanced around the room, hoping for a clue, but nothing stood out.
Meanwhile, Empath continued to wreak havoc, her power growing stronger as she fed off the emotions of those around her. Ladybug knew they didn't have much time.
Cat Noir, still struggling to regain his confidence, looked at Ladybug with concern. "What did you get, m'lady?"
Ladybug showed him the tiny wolf mask. "A wolf mask. But I can't see how it fits into the puzzle. We need to think."
Morro, overhearing their conversation, stepped closer. "A wolf mask… Could it be a clue about the Wolf Miraculous?" he suggested, his mind racing with possibilities. Being a big fan of the two heroes, he'd digested every post on the Ladyblog he could find, and he recalled reading the rumors that there were not just two Miraculous, but many Miraculous out there, including the elusive Wolf Miraculous of Unity—a Miraculous that had never been seen before but was said to contain immense power when used for the greater good.
Ladybug's eyes widened. "Of course! Morro, you're a genius!" she exclaimed. "The mask must represent unity. Maybe it's a symbol of how we need to work together to defeat Empath."
Hawk Moth's eyes widened as he realized the potential in Morro's knowledge. "Empath," he commanded through their telepathic link,"Morro must know about the Miraculous bearers' secrets. Switch tactics and target him. He could be our key to victory."
Empath nodded, her eyes gleaming with a new intensity. She redirected her focus toward Morro, who was desperately trying to fend her off with his Wind Powers. Despite his best efforts, the dark energy around her was too strong, and his attacks seemed ineffective.
Meanwhile, the five-minute warning for Ladybug's transformation started ticking down. Cat Noir, sensing the urgency, called out to her. "Ladybug, you need to run and detransform! We'll cover you!"
Ladybug nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Be careful, Cat Noir!" she urged, before dashing towards a safe spot to detransform.
Morro, noticing Ladybug's retreat, tried to hold Empath at bay. However, his powers were waning, and he could see Ladybug running to find a place to detransform. Realizing the danger, he decided to flee as well, just barely dodging Empath's attacks.
As Empath's power grew, she turned her attention to Cat Noir. Before he could react, she ensnared him in a web of dark energy, warping his emotions into a state of euphoric submission. "You'll be mine now, Cat Noir," she whispered, her voice echoing with a sinister tone.
"Tikki, spots off!" Ladybug cried out to detransform, just as Morro caught up to her. The wind-child, now running alongside Ladybug, glanced back in horror. "We've got to stop her, Ladybug! She's taken control of Cat Noir!"
Ladybug, now in her civilian form as Marinette, nodded determinedly. "We will, Morro. But first, I need to recharge."
With the clock ticking, they prepared for their next move, knowing the fate of their friends and the city depended on their success.
Morro and Marinette sat in a quiet corner, both equally exhausted from the intense battle. Tikki, just as worn out, rested in Marinette's hand, her small form visibly drained from the recent transformation.
Morro's mind raced with worry and guilt. "How can we fight an akuma who can change emotions at the drop of a hat?" he muttered, feeling overwhelmed by the challenge ahead. Reaching into his pocket, the distraught wind-child pulled out a few chocolate chip cookies he had brought along. He stared at them for a moment before taking a small bite, moaning softly.
"This is all my fault," he said, his voice filled with regret. "If I had stuck with the group, Tasha would never have been akumatized."
Marinette, hearing the pain in his voice, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Morro, it's not your fault," she said gently. "None of us could have predicted this. What's important now is that we work together to save Tasha and everyone else."
Tikki, mustering her strength, nodded in agreement. "Marinette's right. You have a strong heart, Morro. And together, we can find a way to defeat Empath."
Morro looked at Marinette and Tikki, their words providing a small measure of comfort. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. "You're right. We can't give up. We'll find a way to stop her."
With renewed determination, they began to strategize, knowing that time was of the essence and that their combined strength and unity were their greatest assets.
As Marinette sat beside Morro, she suddenly remembered the tiny wolf mask from her Lucky Charm. Even without her powers, she felt a sense of clarity, as if the puzzle pieces were finally falling into place.
With a determined look, she turned to Morro. "Chin up. Come with me," she said, standing up and offering him a hand.
Morro, hesitant yet curious, took her hand and followed her through the hallways of the school. He wasn't sure where Marinette was leading him, but he trusted her instinct and the glimmer of hope in her eyes.
Marinette moved with purpose, her mind racing with the possibilities. She knew that the wolf mask represented unity, and it was crucial that they harnessed that power to overcome Empath's control. As they hurried through the empty corridors, Marinette felt a renewed sense of determination.
Morro, keeping pace beside her, felt a spark of hope reignite within him. He didn't fully understand Marinette's plan, but he believed in her and the strength they could find together.
As they reached a secluded spot, Marinette turned to Morro with a confident smile. "We're going to stop Empath and save everyone. Trust me, we've got this."
After Tikki had rested up and snacked on a macaron, Marinette took a deep breath, the weight of what she was about to do sinking in fast. "Spots on!" she called out, transforming back into Ladybug. She then turned to Morro, her expression serious.
"What is about to happen next, you can't tell anyone about, not even Tasha, okay?" Ladybug said, her voice firm yet gentle.
Morro, trusting her judgment, nodded. "I promise, I won't tell anyone."
With that, Ladybug led Morro through the streets of Paris, moving quickly yet cautiously. They soon arrived at a small, unassuming shop. Ladybug knocked on the door with a familiar pattern, and it opened to reveal Master Fu, the wise guardian of the Miraculous.
"Marinette, it's good to see you," Master Fu greeted, his eyes full of wisdom. He glanced at Morro and then back at Ladybug. "And who is this young man?"
"Master Fu, this is Morro," Ladybug explained. "He's seen my transformation and wants to help. I brought him here because we need his strength and the power of another Miraculous. Don't worry—he knows, but he won't tell."
Master Fu studied Morro for a moment before nodding. "Very well. If Marinette trusts you, then so do I. Come inside, and we will discuss how you can help."
With a somber yet expectant expression, Master Fu opened the gramophone, revealing the Miracle Box inside. He turned to Ladybug with a solemn expression. "Choose wisely, Marinette," he advised, his voice filled with gravity.
Ladybug nodded, her hand hovering over the various Miraculous. She took a deep breath and selected the Wolf Miraculous, an arm cuff adorned with a compass symbol. She turned to Morro, holding the Miraculous out to him.
"Morro," Ladybug began, her tone earnest and steady, "with this Miraculous, you will have the power of the Wolf. It is a great responsibility, and it must be used for the greater good. Do you accept this mission, knowing that you must protect Paris and fight for justice, no matter the cost?"
Morro, feeling the weight of her words, nodded resolutely. "I accept," he said, taking the arm cuff from Ladybug's hands.
He slid the arm band onto his arm, and in a flash of silver light, Azuka, the kwami of Unity, emerged. Azuka yawned, stretching before looking at Morro with bright, beady eyes. The small wolf kwami then zoomed around excitedly, his tiny form a blur of motion.
"Hi! I'm Azuka, your new kwami! Oh, this is so exciting! We're going to be an awesome team, I just know it! You're Morro, right? Ladybug chose you, so you must be really special! I can't wait to see what we can do together! My power is all about unity and strength in numbers. We'll need to work together to use it effectively! Oh, this is going to be great!" Azuka said, talking a mile a minute, his enthusiasm practically bubbling over.
Morro couldn't help but laugh, a sound full of genuine joy. "I think you picked the right kwami for me, Marinette!" he exclaimed, feeling a renewed sense of hope and determination. Then he took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the Wolf Miraculous on his arm and turning his wrist to adjust to its shape and form. He then turned to Azuka, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. "What do I have to do to transform?" he asked, his voice steady despite his nerves.
Azuka zipped around excitedly. "It's simple! Just say 'Azuka, wolf howl!' and you'll transform into your superhero form!"
Morro nodded, taking another deep breath to calm himself. With a determined expression, he shouted, "Azuka, wolf howl!"
In an instant, Azuka, the kwami of Unity, disappeared into the arm cuff, tethered to the Miraculous. A bright silver light enveloped Morro, swirling around him like a powerful cyclone. His clothes melted away, replaced by a sleek, silver wolf-themed suit that shimmered in the light. The suit was form-fitting, designed for agility and strength, with intricate patterns that glowed faintly with a mystical energy. A silver mask appeared over his eyes, accentuating his determined gaze and giving him an air of mystery as he grew wolf ears and a tail, completing the look of a wise yet elusive creature of the wild.
As the transformation completed, Morro felt a surge of power coursing through his veins. His senses sharpened, and he could feel the primal energy of the wolf within him as he struck a heroic pose and cried out, "HYAH!" He glanced at his reflection in a nearby window, marveling at his new appearance. The suit was a perfect blend of elegance and ferocity, reflecting the unity and strength that the Wolf Miraculous embodied.
Ladybug smiled, her confidence in Morro unwavering. "I knew you were the right choice. Now, let's go save Tasha and everyone else."
With their spirits lifted, they prepared to face Empath and Hawk Moth, knowing that together, they could overcome any challenge.
With their mission set, Ladybug and Morro left Master Fu's shop and quickly began racing over the rooftops of Paris. Ladybug swung effortlessly with her yo-yo, while Morro marveled at his newfound agility, leaping from one rooftop to the next with ease.
As they raced through the night, Morro reviewed aloud the pattern he had picked up on how the Miraculous powers worked. "Okay, so from what I've gathered, each Miraculous grants its bearer unique abilities. First things first, there's the superpower callout phrase, right? Like how you have your Lucky Charm."
Ladybug nodded, her eyes focused ahead. "Exactly. Each Miraculous has a special ability that can turn the tide of any battle. My Lucky Charm allows me to summon a helpful item, while Cat Noir has Cataclysm, which can destroy anything he touches."
Morro continued, his mind racing. "And there's the transformation time limit. We need to be careful about how much time we have left before we need to recharge."
"Right again," Ladybug confirmed. "We have about five minutes before our powers start to fade and we need to detransform."
"And when we detransform, we need to make sure we're in a safe place to recharge without being seen," Morro added, remembering how he'd seen Marinette transform.
"That's crucial," Ladybug agreed. "And finally, we need to find the akuma and purify it to restore everything to normal."
Morro nodded, feeling more confident with each step. "Got it. Thanks, Ladybug."
Ladybug smiled, proud of Morro's quick understanding. "You're doing great, Morro. We're going to save Tasha and stop Hawk Moth's plans together."
A few moments later, Morro and Ladybug reached a hidden perch, their eyes scanning the chaotic scene below. There, in the middle of the chaos, was Cat Noir, still under Empath's control. Ladybug's heart ached at the sight, and she couldn't help but whimper softly. "My poor kitty…" she whispered, her voice filled with sorrow.
Morro placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "It's gonna be okay, Ladybug. We just have to—" His words were cut off as Empath spotted them, her eyes narrowing with malicious intent.
Before they could react, Empath launched a powerful attack toward their perch. Acting on instinct, Morro cried out, "Wolf Mask—Ladybug!"
His mask glowed with a bright, mystical light, and in an instant, Morro transformed. His appearance shifted to mimic Ladybug's form perfectly, from the red and black suit to the iconic yo-yo at his hip. He felt a strange but exhilarating rush as the transformation completed and he instinctively used the yo-yo to knock the energy beam into a nearby wall.
The real Ladybug's eyes widened in realization. "Morro, you can be a decoy for me!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with hope and determination.
Morro, now in Ladybug's form, nodded. "Got it. Let's take her down."
Ladybug and Morro, now in Ladybug's form, jumped down and faced Empath directly. For a moment, Empath seemed confused, her eyes darting between the two Ladybugs. But then she noticed the difference—one "Ladybug" had green eyes instead of blue. Her eyes narrowed with realization.
"You can't fool me!" Empath hissed, pointing her staff at Morro. "You're not the real Ladybug!"
She fired her power directly at Morro, the dark energy hitting him with full force. Morro, unable to maintain his Wolf Mask, was knocked backwards, crying out in shock and somersaulting into a wall with a sickening thud. He crumpled to the ground, beginning to cry incessantly from the influence of Empath's power. The emotions were overwhelming, and he struggled to regain his composure as his nerves frayed and his heart pounded with anxiety and unnatural sorrow.
High above, Hawk Moth watched with a satisfied grin. "Well done, Empath. Wolf Pup is down. Now, take his Miraculous and bring it to me!"
Empath moved toward Morro, her eyes gleaming with malevolent triumph. But as she reached him, she paused, realizing she had no idea what Morro's Miraculous looked like. Frustration flickered across her face.
"What does it look like?" she muttered to herself, glancing around for any clues.
Ladybug saw her chance. With Empath momentarily distracted, she sprang into action, ready to protect Morro and turn the tide of the battle. Just then, Morro, struggling to catch his breath between sobs, stammered out, "Azuka, Wolf Resilience." Seven silver bars on his arm lit up, and Empath's power strike faded as he began to regain his senses. His tears slowed, replaced by a fierce determination.
He tackled Empath directly, trying desperately to snap her out of it. "Tasha, you have to fight it!" he yelled, his voice cracking with emotion.
Empath struck him again and again with her staff, but he held on, refusing to let go. The glowing bars on his arm began to dim, one by one, until one bar stopped glowing entirely and disappeared. The toll of her attacks was visibly wearing on him, and he could feel the akuma beginning to influence him as well, realizing too late that the longer he used Wolf Resilience, the lower his bars would drop, and the more susceptible he'd be to Empath's—nay, the akuma's—power.
Ladybug, seeing Morro in such danger, called out, "Wolf Pup, get out of there! You're in danger!"
Just then, Cat Noir appeared, his eyes glazed over with Empath's influence. He approached Ladybug with a sweet, polite voice that was chillingly out of character. "Ladybug, could you please give me your Miraculous?" he asked, his tone unnervingly gentle.
Ladybug's heart ached at seeing her partner like this, but she knew it was a trick. "Cat Noir, you have to fight it! Fight Empath's influence!" she urged, her voice strong and unwavering.
Morro, still grappling with Empath, glanced at Ladybug and Cat Noir. He knew they were running out of time. With every bit of strength he had left, he redoubled his efforts to hold on, hoping that Ladybug's words would reach Cat Noir and break through the akuma's control.
As Empath continued to strike Morro, his strength began to wane, and his breath grew incredibly sharp and strangled as he fought to stay focused. Ladybug's heart pounded in her chest as she saw him struggling to hold on. Suddenly, Cat Noir's eyes seemed to flicker, a brief moment of clarity breaking through the influence of Empath's power.
Seeing Morro in danger, Cat Noir sprang into action. With a burst of speed, he tackled Empath, forcing her away from Morro. He then quickly scooped up Morro and pulled him to safety, his movements swift and decisive.
Ladybug watched in shock and confusion. Was Cat Noir truly free from Empath's control, or was this just another trick? She couldn't tell, but she had to trust her instincts.
Cat Noir, breathing heavily, looked at Ladybug with a mix of determination and worry. "Ladybug, we need to get him out of here," he said, his voice steady but filled with urgency.
Morro, still reeling from Empath's attacks, looked up at Cat Noir and Ladybug. "Is this real?" he whispered, his voice shaky. "Are you really free?"
Cat Noir nodded, his eyes clear and focused. "For now, but we don't have much time. We need to regroup and come up with a new plan."
Ladybug, still wary but hopeful, nodded in agreement. "Let's move, quickly. We can't afford to let our guard down."
As they moved to run to a safer location, Ladybug kept a close eye on Cat Noir, ready to act if necessary. The battle was far from over, and they needed to stay vigilant.
With Morro safely in Cat Noir's arms, Ladybug and Cat Noir knew they needed to create a diversion to make their escape. Cat Noir's eyes narrowed with determination as he shifted his grip to free up one hand. "Cataclysm!" he shouted, his gloved hand now crackling with destructive energy.
He struck the ground with his power, causing a massive burst of chaos and debris. The sudden explosion caught Empath off guard, giving them the precious seconds they needed.
"Let's go!" Ladybug urged, and the three of them retreated to the rooftops, moving swiftly and silently. As they fled, Empath's furious voice echoed through the streets below.
"You can't run forever! I will have your Miraculous!" she screamed, her anger palpable.
Ladybug, Cat Noir, and Morro paused on a high rooftop, catching their breath and regrouping. As Cat Noir let Morro down, Ladybug glanced at her companions, her resolve stronger than ever. "We need to come up with a new plan. We can't let her win."
Cat Noir nodded, still breathing heavily from the exertion. "We'll figure it out, m'lady. Together."
Morro, still recovering from the emotional assault, nodded in agreement. "We have to. For Tasha and for everyone else."
Suddenly, Cat Noir's five-minute warning started to beep, and the markings on his ring began to fade away one by one. The familiar sound was a stark reminder that time was running out. Morro noticed immediately and turned to him. "Cat Noir, you need to run and detransform, now!"
Cat Noir nodded, understanding the urgency. "Got it. Be right back!" he said, dashing off to find a safe spot to detransform.
Moments later, Adrien emerged from his hiding place, exhausted and breathless. Plagg, his kwami, floated nearby, looking even more worn out. "That was intense," Adrien panted, trying to catch his breath.
Plagg, his tiny form sagging with fatigue, groaned dramatically. "Azuka has turned Morro into a bundle of energy! I can't keep up with all this excitement. I need cheese and a nap. Mostly cheese," he added with a weak smile.
Adrien chuckled softly, despite the situation. "You did great, Plagg. Rest up for a bit, and then we'll get back to it."
Back on the rooftop, Ladybug and Morro waited for Adrien to return. Ladybug couldn't help but smile at Plagg's usual antics. "We've got a good team, don't we?" she said, her confidence bolstered by their determination and unity.
Morro nodded, feeling a renewed sense of hope. "We do. And we're not giving up, no matter what."
As soon as Cat Noir emerged into the open, Empath's power latched onto him once more, reasserting her control. His eyes glazed over, and the familiar, unnerving gentleness returned to his voice.
Ladybug's heart sank as she saw her partner falling under Empath's influence again, but Morro had had enough. With a fierce resolve, he launched himself at Empath, determined to break her hold.
"Azuka, Wolf Resilience!" he cried, his silver bars lighting up as he powered through her attacks, refusing to let her win. He fought with everything he had, drawing on the strength and unity that his Miraculous represented.
Ladybug knew they needed an edge, and she quickly activated her Lucky Charm. In a flash of red and black magic, an ice cube appeared in her hand, with the miniature form of an akuma frozen inside it. Ladybug's gray vision showed the pieces of the puzzle highlighted in red and black spots: Morro and the akumatized phone.
She looked at Cat Noir, who was struggling against Empath's control. "Follow my lead—I have a plan!" she called out, her voice filled with determination.
Cat Noir, despite the influence, managed to nod, ready to trust Ladybug's instincts. Ladybug then turned to Morro, who was still fighting bravely. "Morro, we need to find the phone and use the ice cube to freeze the akuma!"
Morro nodded, understanding the plan. With renewed determination, they prepared to execute Ladybug's strategy, knowing that their teamwork and unity were their greatest strengths.
But before anyone could make a move, Empath struck Cat Noir down again, sending him crashing to the ground. With a malevolent grin, she shattered the Lucky Charm ice cube in Ladybug's hand.
"NO! Why did she destroy it?" Ladybug muttered, her eyes wide with confusion.
Empath took advantage of her dismay and struck her down as well. Seeing his friends in peril, Morro knew he had to act.
"Tasha!" Morro called out, stepping forward with determination. "I'll take their place. Just let them go."
Empath hesitated, her eyes flickering, the battle within her heart mirrored all over her face. Morro moved closer, hugging her tightly, his thoughts and feelings spilling out of him like a waterfall of sorrow and grief as he cried out, "Tasha…from the very beginning, you've always had my back, and tonight, you proved to me that you would do anything to protect me. You took the akuma that was meant for me, and you were the one akumatized in my place. Your dark powers—your ability to warp emotions—it was meant for me—all along! But the truth is, you could have let me be taken by Hawk Moth, but you didn't—because you knew what bravery meant!"
His voice trembled and quivered uncontrollably as he continued, squeezing her even tighter, letting his emotions pour out of him unhindered and unchecked, "It's like you always tell me—heroes step forward, cowards step back! I was a real coward earlier tonight, but no more! And if that means taking my friends' place for the sake of the greater good, then…so be it! Now let them go, please!"
Empath looked startled at this revelation—and at how Morro began to sob uncontrollably, burying his head in her chest as he felt his Wolf Resilience diminish and his bars begin to fade, one by one. He could feel the akuma's influence begin to engulf him, but he didn't care. His friends were in danger, and he had to save them, no matter the cost to himself.
"Please, let them go, and let me take their place. I'll do whatever you want, if you'll only let them go!" he whispered, genuine tears streaming down his face as he unconsciously murmured, "Azuka… neutralize akuma…"
As the last few silver bars on his arm glowed brightly, Empath's eyes softened. "M...M...my friend..." she murmured, hugging him back while at the same time recognizing that she mustn't reveal his identity to prying ears.
Ladybug and Cat Noir, regaining their senses, watched in awe. "Morro, you're amazing," Ladybug whispered, realizing what had happened. "You can neutralize the akuma."
Cat Noir nodded, understanding. "That's what the ice cube stood for—Morro's power to neutralize the akuma's influence."
But just as Morro and Tasha shared a moment of clarity, Hawk Moth's power surged once more. He reasserted his control over Empath, her eyes darkening with renewed malevolence. With a swift motion, she used her staff to cast Morro into a deep sleep. He let out a small gasp of panic and then collapsed to the ground, his arms releasing Tasha limply and his breathing shallow and even as he sagged into a heap on the concrete.
"No!" Cat Noir cried out in terror, rushing toward Morro as Tasha knelt down to stroke Morro's forehead, whispering sinisterly, "Rest and dream of nothing, little Wolf Pup."
Ladybug, eyes scanning frantically, finally spotted the phone clutched in Morro's hands. Her heart raced as she realized the significance. "That's it," she whispered, determination flaring in her eyes as she realized what Morro had done. Not only had he confessed his true feelings to his enemy—he'd also managed to snag the object the akuma was hiding in, even as he lost consciousness!
"Cat Noir, cover me!" she shouted, her yo-yo already in motion. With a precise throw, she smashed the phone, shattering it into pieces. The akuma, now freed, fluttered into the air, searching for a new host, and the familiar sequence of akuma capture kicked in for Ladybug.
Ladybug opened her yo-yo up with a swish of her index finger, murmuring, "No more evildoing for you, little akuma." She then swung her yo-yo wide, capturing the akuma with a shrill, "Time to de-evilize!"
She then yanked her yo-yo back into her hands with a sharp tug, crying out in triumph, "Gotcha!" Finally, she released the purified butterfly with a soft, shy murmur of, "Bye-bye, little butterfly…"
The akuma turned back into a normal butterfly, fluttering away harmlessly. Ladybug then retrieved what was left of her Lucky Charm, tossed it into the air, and called out, "Miraculous Ladybug!"
A wave of magical ladybugs spread across Paris, restoring everything to normal and healing Morro from his deep sleep. Tasha, now free from Empath's control, collapsed in relief, tears streaming down her face.
Cat Noir knelt beside Morro, helping him to his feet. "You did it, Wolf Pup," he said, his voice filled with admiration.
Ladybug joined them, her smile radiant. "We did it together. Unity is our strength."
As the trio stood together, they knew that their bond and determination had once again triumphed over Hawk Moth's schemes. They were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together.
As the magical ladybugs restored everything, Tasha slowly opened her eyes, looking around in confusion. "What happened? Where am I?" she asked, her voice shaky.
Ladybug knelt beside her, offering a reassuring smile. "It's okay, Tasha. You're safe now. You were under the control of an akuma, but we've set you free."
Tasha looked at her friends, her brow furrowing. "I… I don't remember anything. It's all a blur."
Morro, still feeling the effects of the battle, approached her gently. "Don't worry, Tasha. Just rest for now. We're here for you." he reassured her, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder and flashing her a sad smile, recognizing that his girlfriend couldn't remember his heartfelt confession—but he could.
Tasha nodded, though her confusion remained evident. "Thank you. I'm so glad you're all okay."
Meanwhile, high above, Hawk Moth's furious voice echoed through his lair. "No! This isn't over, Ladybug and Cat Noir! You may have won this time, but I will get your Miraculous another day!" His anger was palpable, but he knew he had to bide his time and wait for the next opportunity.
Back on the rooftop, Cat Noir helped Tasha to her feet. "Let's get you home," he said softly.
Tasha glanced at Ladybug and Morro, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you, all of you. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Ladybug smiled warmly. "We're a team, Tasha. We'll always look out for each other."
Morro, feeling a sense of pride and relief, added, "That's right. We're stronger together."
Suddenly, the five-minute warning started beeping, the markings on their Miraculous fading one by one. Ladybug, Cat Noir, and Morro exchanged urgent glances.
"We need to detransform, now!" Ladybug exclaimed.
Cat Noir nodded. "Tasha, can you get back to the costume party on your own?" he asked, urgency in his voice.
Tasha, still looking confused, replied, "Uh, yeah, I think so…"
Ladybug gave a reassuring smile. "Great. See you soon! Bug out!" With that, she swung away with her yo-yo, disappearing into the night.
Cat Noir and Morro quickly ran in different directions to find safe places to detransform. Adrien found a secluded alley, and with a quick, "Plagg, claws in," he reverted to his civilian form. Plagg, floating wearily beside him, sighed.
"I'm exhausted," Plagg groaned. "All this excitement… I need cheese."
Meanwhile, Morro found a quiet rooftop. "Azuka, wolf whisper…" he called out, and the silver light around him faded. Azuka emerged, looking equally tired.
Azuka yawned and stretched his little arms out, his usual adrenaline ebbing softly away. "Morro, can I have a few honey-BBQ corn chips?" he asked tiredly, "I'm starving!"
Morro chuckled, reaching into his bag for his favorite snack. "Of course, Azuka. As long as I can have some too."
The kwami and his bearer shared the snack, both feeling a sense of accomplishment. They knew the battle was won for now, but they remained ever vigilant, ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.
With everything restored, Marinette, Adrien, and Morro returned to the costume party. The atmosphere was lively, filled with music and laughter, as if nothing had happened. Tasha was mingling with the guests, looking completely normal and free from any memory of the recent events.
The Ninja, scattered around the party, showed no sign of recollection about the chaos that had ensued. It was as though the night had gone on uninterrupted.
Chloe, always quick to seize an opportunity, spotted Morro and couldn't resist a jab. "Well, if it isn't the lost puppy!" she sneered, her voice dripping with disdain. "Did you finally find your way back, or did you need someone to hold your hand?"
Morro paused, looking at Chloe with a calm, measured gaze. His lip quivered again, and he clenched his fists, resisting the urge to lash out. Instead, he fixed Chloé with a steely stare, his voice low and intense. "Chloé, you don't understand the danger you're putting everyone in. This isn't a game."
Chloé crossed her arms, her expression defiant. "And what makes you think you can lecture me? You're no hero."
Morro took a deep breath, his resolve unwavering. "I'm doing this to protect people, including you. If you can't see that, then you're blind to what's truly important."
The tension between them was palpable, each word charged with emotion, and Chloe, stunned by the unexpected verbal punch, stood frozen for a moment, her face flushing with a mix of anger and embarrassment. All she could do was turn on her heel and walk away, muttering under her breath about "the nerve of some people."
"I can't believe it," Chloe grumbled, rubbing her jaw, as if she'd just been socked in the face. "Who does he think he is?"
Tasha, watching Chloe's retreating figure, couldn't help but laugh softly. "Looks like you've made quite the impression, Morro."
Morro shrugged, his smile returning as he visibly calmed down. "She had it coming."
As the music and laughter resumed, the atmosphere lightened, and the night continued with a renewed sense of camaraderie. The friends knew that while they had faced great challenges, they had emerged stronger and closer than ever.
As the costume party began to wind down, Morro found a quiet moment alone with Marinette. He approached her with a warm smile, the silver armband in hand.
"Marinette," he began gently, "I think you should talk to Adrien. I know it's scary, but you'll never know what might happen if you don't try."
Marinette looked at him, her cheeks tinged with pink. "You really think so?"
Morro nodded confidently. "Absolutely. You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain."
He then handed her the armband back with a soft, "Until next time, bugaboo?"
Marinette giggled, shaking her head. "Only Cat Noir uses that nickname for me."
Morro chuckled, his smile broadening. "Right, got it. Until next time, Ladybug." he amended with a secret wink. Ladybug smiled at him, a thoughtful expression on her face. Perhaps she would screw up the courage to talk to the boy she secretly loved…
Morro smiled as he recognized this, and with a final nod of encouragement, rejoined the team, leaving Marinette with a gratefully beaming face. The night had been filled with challenges and triumphs, but in the end, their bonds had grown stronger, ready to face whatever the future held.