Notes: The show has a lot of problems, but the theme song isn't one of them
Disclaimer: I do not own the Miraculous franchise
Miraculous Universe
Ch. 10: The Power of Love (Always So Strong)
It was now the middle of February. Adrien knew better than to cross Gabriel's path.
"He's always more irritable than usual when Saint Valentin rolls around," Adrien thought to himself, "He's still carrying a torch for mom. Maybe if he moved on, he'd feel better. Honestly, though, it's hard enough to picture how he ever could've won over mom, much less how he'd interact with a new woman. The only woman who puts up with him is Nathalie. Hey, what if...? Nah, that's ridiculous."
Adrien picked up Nino as usual, and they got to school early. Nino was being unusually quiet.
"What are you thinking about, Nino?" Adrien asked.
"Huh? Oh, well, uh...today is Saint Valentin, mec."
"Okay, but you never cared about it before. You don't have a Valentine...or do you?"
"No, and really the only reason I bring it up is because it reminds me of...you know who."
"So you're finally making a move? Saint Valentin is in the middle of the week, so what you ought to do is take her out this weekend. That way she knows you mean it."
"I wouldn't know what to do. When it comes to movies and music, I'm an expert, but this..."
"I don't think it would matter to Alya where you went or what you did that much. Just so long as it fits the mood. Say, doesn't her dad work at Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes?"
"Yeah."
"Well then, take her there. In fact, just to help you out, I'll go with you."
"Won't that be awkward?"
"Not by myself, dummy, I mean on like a double date type of thing."
"Really? With who?"
"I'm sure if we tell Marinette what you're planning, she'll leap at the chance to help."
"You and Marinette on a date?"
"It's not like that."
"Why not?"
"Don't change the subject."
"Sorry...in that case, it does sound like a good idea."
"Great! So you take her to the zoo, find a nice quiet spot, and then you confess your love to her."
"Wait, what? Don't say that word!"
"I'm kidding, Nino. You two haven't even been on a proper date. "
"Okay, as long as you're joking. Chloé said you didn't have much experience with this sort of thing, so I thought you'd be some lovesick nut."
"Hey, just because I've never been in a relationship doesn't make me some crazy awkward weirdo. I think I've read enough books to have some good ideas. I've also seen enough TV shows to know what are bad ideas. Besides, Chloé's one to talk. She hasn't been in a relationship either."
"I heard that!" Chloé said, "I happen to be in a very good relationship."
"You are?" Zoé asked, "That's news to me."
"Who is it, Chloé?" Sabrina asked.
"It's me, obviously! I love myself. I love myself a lot! I always know what I'm talking about. I know how to dance. I always give myself the best presents. I regularly compliment myself. However, I'm not narcissistic. I couldn't live with myself if I was."
"Yeah, you'd have to get a separate room," Zoé joked.
"I guess that's technically a healthy relationship," Adrien conceded.
Luka had joined the group without saying anything, just listening. Chloé had noticed, but didn't mention it.
"If I may contribute?" Luka spoke up.
"Oh boy, here we go," Chloé muttered.
"It sounds silly when said it out loud, but listen to your heart...and also your instincts. It's always a good idea to have a plan, but sometimes you have to take a chance."
That's when Marinette and Alya walked up.
"What are you guys talking about?" Marinette asked.
"As it's Saint Valentin," Luka said, "We're talking about relationships."
"My parents are still very much in love."
"Same goes for mine," Alya said, "What about you though, girl?"
"Me? I haven't really thought about it actually. Anyway, we'd better get to class."
Throughout the day, Marinette kept rotating through various thoughts.
"The time between Akuma attacks is odd, isn't it? I wonder if there's a pattern? I wonder what Matou Noir thinks? I wonder if his theory that Gabriel Agreste is actually Le Papillon could be remotely true. If it's true, what does Gabriel want? How did Matou Noir come to suspect him? Noir is pretty smart, and quite handsome. I mean, he's fun to hang out with, but I don't know who he is. Could you really have a relationship with someone like that? I know he flirts now and then, but I don't think he'd ever want to have anything other than a professional relationship. I don't know why, but once in a while, Chaton reminds me of Adrien. Is it possible...? Let's not jump to conclusions. Speaking of Adrien, when we were at the theater, and Adrien held my hand...my heart starting beating really fast. I've always thought Adrien was handsome, and ever since we met, I've really gotten to know him. Do I like him as more than a friend? Does he feel anything towards me, or is he just being nice? Stop driving yourself crazy with such thoughts. Focus on school and work."
"Hey, Marinette," Adrien said.
"Huh?"
"Did I startle you? Sorry about that."
"It's okay. I was thinking about...several things."
"I'm helping Nino with a cunning plan, and I need your help."
"Why hasn't he mentioned it?"
"He's kind of embarrassed about it. He wants to take Alya out on a date."
"Really?!" she said, a big smile on her face.
"I mean, he doesn't want to call it a date because he's nervous."
"That's him all right."
"I said they should go to the zoo this weekend, and to make sure it doesn't feel too awkward, I said we'd tag along."
"Oh, well of course! It sounds so exciting."
"Yeah, maybe for you," Nino said.
"Come on, Nino, there's no need to be afraid. Nervous, maybe, but don't be scared."
"But she's so beautiful, and I'm -"
"Don't you dare say anything negative about yourself," Marinette said, "You were my first friend, Nino. You're a good person. You're always keeping an eye on Alya when she does something crazy."
Nino finally smiled, "You're right. I can do this."
"Now let's talk to Alya."
The trio found Alya in the computer room.
"Hey, guys. Just updating the blog. I forget if I told you, but while I do sometimes still post on that superhero blog, I started my own that's specifically about the heroes of Paris."
"That's great, Als," Marinette said, "So...we were wondering if you're free this weekend."
"Uh, sure, why?"
"I heard there's a new exhibit at the zoo," Adrien said, "How's about we all go to see it? You can say hello to your dad while you're there."
"I have been meaning to visit actually. Can we get there as soon as they open?"
Marinette and Adrien nudged Nino.
"We'll all be there bright and early," he said.
"Great! See you then."
"Actually, Als," Marinette said, "Why don't you ask your folks if you can spend the night on Friday? That way it saves time."
"Oh, yeah. Why didn't I think of that? I'll let you know in a minute."
AC: Mom, can I spend the night with Marinette this Friday? We're going to the zoo Saturday morning
MC: That sounds fun. Go right ahead. Going to see your dad while you're there?
AC: Of course, mom
"All set. I'll just need to grab some stuff from home after school."
"I'll pick you up on my scooter."
"Cool. Later, girl."
Friday was here in a flash. That night, Marinette thought it best to talk about anything besides boys. The next morning, Placide gladly drove Adrien over to pick up Nino, Marinette, and Ayla. Alya was leading the way since she knew the zoo like the back of her hand. They were there for a few hours before Alya finally remembered.
"Oh right, the new addition. Dad said they got a female black panther. Well, actually, a black panther can refer to either a melanistic leopard or jaguar, so I should be more specific. It's the latter."
"Sounds great, Als," Marinette said.
"Yeah, I don't come here enough," Adrien said.
"Here she is. Isn't she beautiful?"
The jaguar was pacing back and forth, stopping to rub against the tree in her habitat now and then. Alya was fixated on the big cat, while Nino's attention was divided. He kept looking at the jaguar, and then looking at Alya. Marinette noticed and nudged Adrien.
"Now's our chance," Marinette said, barely above a whisper.
He winked at her in response.
"Hey, Alya," Adrien said, "I'm going to the restroom real quick."
"Yeah," Marinette said, "And I'm going to grab a snack and some water. Want anything?"
"Just water for me, thanks," Alya replied.
"Nino?"
"Oh, uh, just water, Nette, thanks."
Alya and Nino were now alone. By sheer luck, most of the other patrons were in different parts of the zoo, or possibly stopping to eat.
"Okay, Nino," he thought to himself, "Just tell her right out how you feel."
"You know, Alya, this jaguar reminds me of you: beautiful, powerful, graceful, um...from the New World, and...uh, full of melanin."
"Uh, thanks...I think."
"What I'm trying to say is...well, we've known each other for a while now, haven't we?"
"We have, yes."
"Yeah...anyway," he took her hand in his, "I wanted you to know that..."
Earlier that day...
Otis Césaire wasn't having a good day. An accident with the electricity had reset his clock, so he woke up late. Then, on his way to work, he got stuck in traffic. On top of that, he had been in such a hurry that he forgot to eat. He was trying not to let his irritation show, but as he walked up to the jaguar habitat, he saw someone he knew very well.
"My Alya."
For a brief moment, his troubles seemed far away, but just as he was about get her attention, that's when he saw it. Some boy was standing very close to her, and even holding her hand. His instincts told him to go over there and make him back off, but he knew that would upset Alya.
"My little girl. Has she already grown up so much?"
This, on top of everything else today, was just too much. He had to sit down on the nearest bench for a moment.
Meanwhile...
Le Papillon had spent most of the week brooding in his lair. This did not go unnoticed by Mayura.
"You've been down here more often than usual, Gabriel."
"I hate Saint Valentin. I've been waiting for the opportunity to akumatize someone."
"Wow, that is really petty."
"Call it what you want, but...ah, there it is. Fly away, my little Akuma."
"Somehow I doubt this is worth the effort."
"Just send Optigami to the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes."
Otis was wearing a bracelet that bore an animal fang, and this is what the Akuma possessed.
"Good day to you. I am Le Papillon. Are you feeling annoyed, upset, frustrated, perhaps even angry? Let me help you express it. Just make sure you deal with the heroes when they arrive. Take any Miraculous they have from them. Do we have a deal?"
He gave a defeated sigh, "Yes."
"Unleash the beast, Animan."
The purple energy washed over Otis, and he was now a huge werepanther. He sniffed the air, and made his way towards Alya.
Nino was holding Alya's hand, "I wanted you to know that..."
Suddenly, the jaguar starting hissing at something.
"I wonder what's wrong with her?"
Nino pointed to something behind her. She gasped at the Akuma as it seemed to fixate on her. That's when she noticed the bracelet.
"Papa?"
The Akuma stopped to stare at her, but then noticed Nino, growled, and kept moving forward.
"Nino, I think you'd better back away slowly."
Meanwhile, Marinette and Adrien decided to go check on their friends.
"I hope they've made some kind of progress," Marinette said.
Just as they turned the corner, they saw the Akuma.
"Mari, I think we should try to get a hold of the heroes."
"I agree, Adrien. I'll go this way."
"Then I'll go this way."
The rest of the patrons were starting to notice Animan. They began running for the exit. With all the chaos, it was easy for Adrien and Marinette to duck into the nearest restroom, check that it was empty, and then transform.
"Another fine day, My Lady."
"Yeah, you ain't kidding."
They ran as fast as they could back to the jaguar habitat.
"Get behind me, Alya," Nino said.
"Are you crazy? You're the one he wants!"
"Yeah, but he might hurt you if you get in the way."
"No he won't. He's my dad."
"He's been akumatized, Alya. People don't act normal in that state."
Animan raised one massive paw to strike at Nino, when the yo-yo wrapped around his body and pulled him backwards.
"One cat to another," Matou Noir said, "How's about we retract our claws and take a cat nap instead?"
Animan hissed and began fighting against the yo-yo string.
"Nino," Ladybird shouted, "Get her out of here!"
Alya looked at him, "Don't you dare."
He sighed, "Sorry, babe."
Using all his strength, he pick her up and dragged her into the nearby restaurant. As soon as they were inside, he blocked the door so she couldn't leave.
"Get out of my way, Nino!"
"No."
"Let me go out there, Nino! That's my dad!"
"I believe you, Alya, but you should stay here and let the heroes do their job."
"No! I can't just sit here. I have to do something. I...I hate not being able to do anything."
Her eyes were starting to tear up.
"I'm sorry," he said, quietly.
"Stop apologizing!"
"I can't help it! You have a habit of running into danger. And now, this time, just because the Akuma is your dad, you think he won't attack you."
"I...I can take care of myself."
"I know you can. Believe me, I know it all too well. I like that you're so independent."
"Well then -"
"But how do you think I'd feel if something happened to you, especially if I could've done something?"
"Why do you care so much?! I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. We're friends, so of course you care. That reminds me, though, you did it again. Why did you call me babe?"
"It just slipped out."
"Is that really the only reason?"
"Is this really the best time?"
"Do you want me to tackle you so I can go back outside?"
"Okay, okay. There's another reason I asked you here today."
"Well, out with it!"
"It's a secret."
"There's no one else here, Nino. Tell me the truth."
"Please just come closer."
She rolled her eyes, "Fine, I'll humor you."
She was now only inches away.
He was stammering, "I...I.."
He quickly leaned over and kissed her on the lips. She was surprised for a second, but began kissing him back. One of his hands found its way to her hip, while one of hers found his neck.
Meanwhile...
Animan had managed to get free from the yo-yo. He was running on all fours towards Ladybird, but Matou Noir grabbed him by the tail and pulled. Animan quickly spun around and swiped at him.
"I'm in no mood for a cat fight!"
"Tomcat, do you ever NOT have a joke ready?"
"This is the opportunity I've been waiting for, My Lady," he replied while dodging blows, "The Akuma is a cat man, so how can I not have the proper ammunition?"
Matou Noir tried to jump away from Animan, but the Akuma grabbed him by the ankle and slammed him into the ground.
"Okay, that hurt."
He was about to do it again, but this time, Noir grabbed a nearby fence. He then reached for his staff and extended it straight into Animan's face, causing the Akuma to shriek in pain. Optigami was watching from a nearby tree.
The Lair
Le Papillon had a twisted smile on his face.
"For such an inconsequential Akuma," Mayura said, "You're taking way too much pleasure in this."
"You saw it, Nathalie. My Akuma broke up a disgusting little romantic meeting. It's enough to send a feeling through my frozen heart."
"Do you actually hear yourself when you talk?"
The fight
Matou Noir was running from Animan, "Here, kitty kitty! Come and get me!"
The hero reached a dead end. Animan was in front of him, while a brick wall was behind him. Once again, Ladybird tangled up Animan with her yo-yo. The Akuma was thrashing around to free himself.
"Hey, ugly," Noir called, "If you're so tough, I'll bet you could take me with your arms tied."
Animan hissed at the hero, while Matou Noir hissed right back. Animan's legs were still free, so charged at Matou Noir. The hero was simply leaning against his staff as the Akuma got closer. Animan leapt at the hero. Noir extended his staff so that he was now in the air and out of reach. Animan, meanwhile, ended up flying face first into the brick wall. The Akuma was dazed, so Noir quickly grabbed the fang adored bracelet.
"Cataclysm! How's about that secret handshake, My Lady?"
"I thought you'd never ask, Chaton."
"Miraculous!"
Otis felt like he was snapping out of a daydream.
"When did I end up on the ground?"
Matou Noir offered a hand, "Are you alright, M. Césaire?"
"Was I...akumatized?" he asked, taking the outstretched hand.
"Afraid so, sir," Ladybird said, "But don't feel too bad. Le Papillon is always taking advantage of people at their lowest point."
"Well then, thank you for everything," he looked around, "My daughter Alya. Have you seen her? Is she safe?"
"Rest assured, sir, she was nowhere near the fight. She's in good hands."
...
How long had it been? Neither could say. They were blind and deaf to the rest of the world. All that mattered in that moment was each other. Nino and Alya were still kissing each other passionately. Alya ran one her hands through Nino's hair, knocking his cap off. They finally stopped to breathe and were touching foreheads.
"Alya," he said, softly.
"Nino," she answered back.
He opened his mouth to say something else, but...
"Alya!" came a shout.
They immediately jumped at least a foot away from each other.
"That's my dad. He's okay!"
She ran outside, leaving Nino alone in the restaurant. He sighed as he picked up his cap, and then started walking slowly back to the group. Alya immediately hugged her father.
"Daddy, I'm so glad you're okay."
"Calm down, mon cher. I'm all right. I'm sorry I worried you."
"Thank you both so much," she said to the heroes.
"I think I'm going to ask for the rest of the day off. I'll be right back, Alya."
"Okay, dad."
As he walked off, Alya said, "Raincheck on that interview, right?"
"Yeah, I think that'd be wise," Ladybird replied.
"Well, I guess that's our cue to make an exit," Matou Noir said with a bow, "Until next time."
Now it was his turn to run off. Ladybird simply waved as she used her yo-yo to swing away. Nino was still walking back to the spot in front of the jaguar habitat. He noticed Matou Noir and Ladybird out of the corner of his eye, but he was too preoccupied. Optigami had already left the area.
The Lair
As soon as the Akuma had been defeated, Gabriel stormed off to sulk in his room.
"You know, Gabriel," Nathalie called out before he left, "Just because you're miserable, doesn't mean you should take it out on everyone else."
He scowled at her, but said nothing.
The zoo
Adrien and Marinette had changed back in the restroom and were now back with the group. Otis got back just as they did.
"I suppose if I had called ahead this might not have happened. I'm heading home. Coming, Alya?"
"Sure thing, dad."
Nino had finally reached the group. Marinette noticed his rather sullen look.
"M. Césaire, I'm sure you've met Nino. He's the one who got Alya to safety."
"Is that so?" Otis said, looking him up and down, "Well in that case, you have my thanks, young man."
"It was no trouble at all, sir."
"Oh, I doubt that very much. All my daughters are quite stubborn when they want something. You should come over and have dinner with us sometime."
"Sure thing, sir."
Otis was now headed for the parking lot.
Alya looked at the others, "I'll see you guys later. This was fun."
Alya and Nino locked eyes for a split second, but she then ran off to join her dad.
"Thank goodness both of you were safe," Marinette said.
"Yeah, we were afraid something might've happened to you," Adrien added.
"Thanks for caring, mec."
Adrien and Marinette noticed Nino still looked kind of upset.
"Are you sure you're okay, Nino?" Adrien asked.
"Huh? Oh yeah, totally, mec. Never better in fact."
"Nino," Marinette said, "I've known you longer than Adrien. If he can see something's wrong, then you certainly can't fool me."
"Well...can we talk about it later, please, Nette?"
"Okay, Nino, if that's what you want. I don't want to force you."
"How's about we grab a bite to eat?" Adrien asked.
"That sounds good, right, Nino?"
"Oh, yeah, sure. I am feeling hungry."
The drive home was rather quiet, but when Otis and Alya got home...
"Alya."
"Yes, Papa?"
"That boy you were with. Is he someone special?"
"I...I don't know."
"Well, he seems a nice boy. So, whatever you decide, as long as he treats you right, he's fine by me."
She smiled, "Thanks, Papa."
The next couple of weeks were awkward to say the least. Alya would avoid Nino whenever possible. If he was lucky, she might say hello before she disappeared. Everyone thought it was weird.
"Not that I care," Chloé said, "But seeing Césaire running away, while Lahiffe sits around all depressed, is starting to unnerve me. It's ridiculous!"
"Utterly ridiculous?" Zoé prompted.
"I can think of a few other adjectives I'd use, but that'll suffice."
Once March rolled around, at last, something caused Nino to perk up.
"This is the year, mec."
"What are you talking about, Nino?" Adrien asked.
"Mec, you're turning 16. That's a big milestone, so I've heard."
"I don't want to rain on your parade," Zoé said, "But it's usually only a big deal for girls."
"Adrien's kinda like a princess," Kim said.
"Yeah, the way his father keeps him locked up in that tower," Socqueline added.
"That's good enough for me," Nino continued, "I'm going to ask your dad if we can finally have a party for you."
Adrien was shocked, "Are you sure about that? You know he doesn't like you. Well, be fair, he doesn't really like any of you."
"Mec, we can't just wait until you're 18. We have to do something before that. If that means having to actually talk to you old man, then I'll take that risk."
Adrien smiled, "You're a true friend, Nino."
"You know," Chloé said, "There's a difference between being brave and being stupid."
"You should give inspirational speeches," Luka joked.
So that Saturday, Nino headed for the Agreste mansion. Adrien and Placide were outside waiting for him.
"Are you still going through with this?"
"Mec, I'm going in there and try to reason with your dad. There's just one thing you have to do."
"What's that?"
"Talk me out of it."
Despite saying that, Nino walked to the door. Once inside, Adrien went to find Nathalie.
"Nathalie, is father busy?"
"More than likely."
"Well, my friend Nino wants to talk to him."
Nathalie looked confused, "Seriously?"
"Yes, and it's important."
"I'll see what I can do."
She went to Gabriel's room on the second floor.
"Gabriel, this is going to sound crazy, but one of Adrien's friends actually wants to speak with you."
"Which one is it?"
"The one with the hat that you always say has no fashion sense."
"Oh, that one. What does he want?"
"Adrien didn't say."
Gabe rolled his eyes, "Let's make this quick."
Gabriel descended the stairs, stopping on the landing where the family portrait was displayed.
"Make it quick," he said, staring at Nino.
"M. Agreste," Nino said, "Adrien turns 16 this year."
"I'm aware of how old my son is."
"Well, I was hoping that you'd let us throw a party for him."
"Absolutely not. I don't need all those annoying teenagers running around my mansion."
"I swear we'd all stay outside. Besides, what's wrong with having a little fun?"
"You listen to me fashionably challenged fool, I decide what's best for my son. It's bad enough he's deigned to make friends with you, but I don't have to allow you into my domicile."
Nino resisted the urge to snap back, "I think that's a little harsh."
"I know enough about you, boy. If you want a venue to DJ, you can look elsewhere. I also heard you want to be a film director. I have no doubt you'll end up just like André Bourgeois - you'll make one mediocre film and then fade into obscurity. What are you wasting my time for? Don't you have something else you could be doing? Shouldn't you be at home playing video games, watching/reading that tripe from Japan, or perhaps even attempting to talk to a girl that's clearly out of your league? I think we're done here. Get out, and don't come back."
Nino wanted to snap back at him, but he knew that would make things worse. He simply turned around and left. Gabriel was heading to his atelier.
"You can't talk to my friends that way, Père," Adrien said through gritted teeth.
"I don't like your tone, Adrien."
"If I seem offensive to you, it's because I'm offended."
"Since it is your birthday, I'm reluctantly allowing you to spend time with your...friends...but no party."
Adrien was about to say something else, but Nathalie was shaking her head. She motioned at the front door and closed the door to the atelier. Adrien ran outside to catch up with Nino, but he'd already left. All he could do is hang his head as Placide placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Give him time," the bodyguard said, "And then call him."
Nino ran into a nearby alley and was torn between punching the wall and shedding tears. He kept thinking about Adrien being all alone in his room, as well as his own predicament with Alya.
"Why does his dad hate me so much? Why is he so controlling with Adrien? Why won't Alya talk to me? Did I do something wrong? She seemed to enjoy the kiss. Why haven't I worked up the courage to straight up talk to her myself? Why does it always seem like I'm not good enough?"
The Lair
"I don't think much of Adrien's friends either," Nathalie said, "But that was awfully harsh, Gabriel."
He transformed, "Now he's the perfect target for my Akuma."
"Is that why you insulted him so much, to akumatize him?"
"It's not the only reason."
"You're cruel sometimes, you know that?"
The alley
Nino was sitting on the ground with his head in his hands. He had his headphones on to try and clear his mind, but it wasn't helping. The Akuma flew up and possessed the headphones.
"Bonjour, Nino, I am Le Papillon."
"What do you want?"
"I know how you feel. So angry and frustrated, but unable to do anything. I can give you the power to get things done."
"Just leave me alone."
"Don't you want to give Adrien a party?"
"Of course."
"Well then, I can help you. However, you must do something for me in return."
"Let me guess, you want more Miraculous?"
"Well, yes."
"I can do that...if you turn me into a 20ft robot with the power of sound...and a blaster."
"Uh, okay then. You shall be known as...Le DJ."
"Pass."
"Excuse me?"
"That's too vague. It has to be really cool. Something like...DJ Soundwave!"
Papillon rolled his eyes, "Very well. Just get me those Miraculous."
"Copy that."
Nino was now a huge blue and black robot. A red visor was in place of his eyes. He scanned the area. He sent out a signal that tapped into every electronic that could broadcast his message.
"Attention all teenagers of Paris," he droned in a robotic voice, "I am DJ Soundwave. You are invited to a birthday party at the Agreste manor. All those who are friends and acquaintances of Adrien Agreste are required to be there. I repeat: failure to arrive will result in unnecessary property damage. Be there or...else."
At the same time Adrien and Nino were talking to Gabriel, Marinette was out with Alya having lunch. She was trying unsuccessfully to get Alya to talk about her recent demeanor.
"Als, you're avoiding the subject. You've talked about everything else but what's important."
"It's my problem, Nette."
"Everybody's worried about you, Als. You're acting like the complete opposite. What happened to you?"
"Okay...that day at the zoo, while the heroes were fighting my dad, Nino took me into the restaurant to hide. I know you're partially responsible for his idea to visit the zoo."
"Me and Adrien actually."
"I finally told him to admit the truth...and then he kissed me...and I kissed him back...several times."
Marinette smiled, "How romantic."
"Is it though? I admit, I got caught up in the moment. How do I know he didn't do the same?"
"You seriously think, after all this time, Nino would only kiss you because he could, rather than because he likes you?"
"It sounds stupid when you say it out loud. I know he's not shallow like that, but even I, the girl who puts herself in dangerous situations...I felt scared. It certainly didn't help that he never explained himself."
Before Marinette could answer, that's when the broadcast happened.
"Als, did that voice sound familiar to you?"
"Now that you mention it..."
Suddenly, they saw a giant robot walking down the street.
"I am DJ Soundwave. I am here to make sure you comply with my broadcast. You will make haste to the Agreste mansion. Do not make me use force."
A long tendril with claws at the end extended from his back. The claw snapped at Marinette and Alya.
"Okay, we're going," Alya begrudgingly said.
As she and Marinette walked off, the robot seemed to follow her movements. It took about 30 minutes or so for everyone to gather at the mansion.
"It was incredible," Max was saying, "Such an impressive robot. You know I've been working on one myself."
"I'm pretty sure you've mentioned it before," Alix said.
The robot stomped back into the area.
"Everyone is here. Now we can begin. Operation: retrieve Adrien."
Adrien had heard the broadcast and was looking out any window he could to see what was going on. When he saw the guests showing up...
"I'd better get out there."
Placide stepped in front of the door.
"I know it could be dangerous, but if I don't do anything, this ordeal will never end."
Placide nodded and opened the door. The robot was waiting.
"Adrien, I am glad you are here," the robot said, "I was about to smash through the door."
"Do I know you?"
"I was once known as Nino, but now I am DJ Soundwave."
"You've been akumatized?"
"Affirmative. Now join the group. It is your birthday party."
"But father said no."
"I do not see him here. Your friends are here. The music is ready."
"Adrikins!" Chloé said, hugging him, "I can't believe the nerd here managed to through you a party. Uh, sort of."
"I can't say I like when you're forced to attend a party," Zoé said.
"My dad's not going to like this," Sabrina said.
Just then, Brigadier Raincomprix pulled up in his cop car. Another vehicle pulled up, this one with Nadja Chamack and a cameraman.
"Hello, I'm Nadja Chamack. Don't be bemused, it's just the news. A giant robot has gathered several teenagers at the Agreste mansion,"
"That is correct, Nadja. I am DJ Soundwave. I am no mere robot. I am an Akuma. I am here to give Adrien Agreste a party. Now that the guests are here, it is time to move on to the next phase of my mission."
"Look, whoever you are," Roger said, "You can't just take over this property."
"I do not want to hurt you, officer, but do not interfere. I must complete my new mission."
"Nino, I mean, DJ Soundwave, what are you talking about?" Marinette asked, "I thought this was just an ill attempt at a party?"
"Negative. New mission underway. Operation: destroy the Agreste mansion. Activate the resonance blaster."
A powerful blast of sound was now bombarding the mansion. It was still standing, but every window shattered.
The Lair
With all the security cameras, Nathalie hadn't bothered to transform or even send out Optigami. She and Le Papillon were now strewn across the floor as the entire building shook.
"Oh, great idea!" she snarked, "Give the angry teenager who doesn't like you, and you just belittled, the power to destroy the mansion! This must be your greatest plan yet!"
"Oh, will you shut up?!"
The party
Everyone was covering their ears with their hands.
"Eliminate the Agreste mansion. Eliminate Gabriel Agreste if possible."
"Mari," Adrien yelled over the noise, "I have to get inside and check on my father."
"Is that safe?"
"I don't know, but I have to," he replied, running off.
He was actually heading for his room to transform.
"Placide must be looking for father and Nathalie. It's odd jumping out this window when there's no glass."
Marinette managed to sneak off, and thanks to Adrien telling her where all the security cameras were, she was able to avoid being seen so she could transform as well.
"Let's not waste any time. Lucky Charm! A pair of glasses? Max wears glasses. He could stop that robot. No, that's silly. It's not a real robot. It's an Akuma. Gabriel Agreste wears glasses, but he's the last person we need right now. The same goes for his assistant Nathalie. Nino wears glasses, but he's the Akuma. The only other person it could be is...Alya."
She rushed to get back to the party. Meanwhile, Matou Noir was trying to get through to Nino.
"Look, Nino, I mean, DJ Soundwave, I can tell you care about your friend, but you really need to stop. I don't want to fight you."
"DJ Soundwave: superior. Matou Noir: inferior."
"Okay, now that's just mean."
The Akuma ignored him and continued his siege of the mansion.
Ladybird came running up, "Look at this."
"Glasses? I don't need any, but thanks."
"I don't think we need to fight him at all. We need Alya."
"What, like as a hero?"
"No, just Alya."
Ladybird walked up to Alya and pulled her close.
"Alya, we need your help."
"What, like as a superhero?"
"No, just you. Talk to Nino...please."
"Uh...are you sure?"
"Ma oui," she then walked back over to Noir, "We have to get him to stop all that noise. Let's pretend to attack him."
"If you think that's best," he replied, extending his staff.
She smacked the Akuma's head with her yo-yo.
"Hey, Robo-DJ, or whatever you call yourself! We'll use force to stop you if we have to!"
"Operation: retrieve Miraculous."
Two long, clawed tendrils shot out of his back and grabbed the heroic duo. He began slamming them around.
"The things we do to help," Noir sighed.
That's when Alya ran up, "Nino, please STOP!"
The robotic Akuma did in fact stop.
"Let them go...please."
"Your request is acceptable."
He threw the heroes away in opposite directions.
"Now do not interfere."
"No, wait! You don't have to do this."
"I demand justice."
"Is it justice? Or is it revenge?"
"Let us call it punishment."
"That's not for you to decide. I'm guessing M. Agreste doesn't think highly of you?"
"He insulted me."
"Well, destroying his house won't make him like you more...or less."
"You are stalling."
"Okay, yes, I am stalling. What I really want to say is...I'm sorry."
He paused for a minute, "Clarify."
"I've been avoiding you for two or three weeks now. It's because I was scared, okay?"
"Illogical."
"There's a first time for everything. That day, when we kissed, I liked it. I really did. I knew how you felt about me, but it's been years, and you never made a move. I was afraid you got over me. Then all of a sudden, you finally kiss me, I was happy, but a part of me wondered if you only did it because you felt like you had to, rather than you wanted to."
Ladybird and Matou Noir had returned, but they stayed back and watched.
"Alya...I...do not know what to say."
"Well I do. It doesn't matter what Gabriel Agreste said, because you're better than you think you are. You're smart, you're talented, you're handsome, but best of all, you're kind. What I'm trying to say is...I love you."
The Akuma seemed to be processing this. He began to short circuit, and he fell to the ground.
"Nino!" Alya cried, "Are you okay?"
"New objective. Operation: reject Akuma. Le Papillon, I renounce your power."
The familiar butterfly symbol appeared on the robot's face, but in an instant it was shattered.
The Lair
Le Papillon and Nathalie were watching on the security cameras. When they saw the symbol shatter, Papillon was sent falling over backwards.
"That's impossible," he said, picking himself up, "How could he, of all people, reject my Akuma?!"
Gabriel de-transformed, and was now pacing back and forth, grumbling under his breath.
Nathalie didn't really know how to react, so she simply said, "Well, how about that?"
The party
The Akuma was sent shooting out of the headphones. It fluttered down to the ground and didn't move.
"We better hurry with the repair job, My Lady."
"I wholeheartedly agree, Minou."
"Miraculous!"
All the damages to the mansion were repaired, and the butterfly was purified. Nino was back to normal and laying unconscious on the ground. Alya was next to him, having laid his head on her lap.
"Nino, please wake up," she pleaded, "You're not an Akuma anymore."
He finally began to stir, and in a groggy voice he said, "Alya?"
"Yes, Nino. I'm here."
He gave a weak smile, "I love you, too."
She wiped away her tears, "You big dork."
"Brigadier Raincomprix," Ladybird said, "I think it best to let these young people get back to whatever they were doing before all this happened."
"I can't say I disagree."
"How about a quick interview?" Nadja asked.
Matou Noir shrugged, "Well, I mean we -"
"Not you, those two," she said, pointing at Alya and Nino.
Alya was helping Nino up.
"Well if it isn't my competition, the lady blogger. Care to say a few words?"
"Are you up to it, Nino?" Alya asked.
"What, and not let everyone on TV see how beautiful you are?"
She starting walking with him towards Nadja, "Not wasting any time with the compliments, are you?"
"We've got a lot of time to catch up on, babe."
Ladybird and Matou Noir waved at each other and disappeared. Both quickly de-transformed and got back to the group.
"Oh, Mari, glad you're okay."
"Likewise, Adrien. I don't think this is what you had in mind for a party, huh?"
"I think it's gonna be hard to top a party like this," Chloé said.
"Knowing you," Zoé said, "you'll find a way."
"Young man," Nadja started, "While the Akuma attacks have been uneven, they've all ended more or less the same. You, however, are the first victim to end it of your own free will. How did you do it?"
Nino stood up straight, and then took Alya's hand in his.
"Well, Nadja, can I call you that?"
"Sure."
"I believe Huey Lewis put it best. It's strong, it's sudden, and it's cruel sometimes, but it might just save your life," he pulled Alya into a hug, "That's the power of love!"
Alya was giggling like crazy. Her entire family was watching on television.
"Who knew that Cappy had it in him?" Nora said.
"Maman," Ella and Etta said, "Does this mean Alya has a boyfriend?"
The crowd began to disperse, save for Adrien's closest friends. Nathalie and Placide came outside to make sure everyone left.
"Adrien," Nathalie said, "It's true your father said no party, however, he didn't say you couldn't spend the day with your friends. I suggest you do so. You'll want to avoid him for the rest of the day. He's in another one of his moods. Oh, and here's one of his credit cards."
"Thanks, Nathalie," he turned to address his friends, "Dinner's on my dad, mes amis!"
Everyone cheered.
"If I may interject, Adrien?" Marinette spoke up.
"But of course."
"I suggest that everyone who wants to go out to dinner head back home, rest a bit, maybe change clothes, and we'll all meet at my place to decide where we'll eat."
Everyone looked at each other, nodded their heads, and took off.
"Time for another idea," Marinette added.
"What next?" Adrien asked.
"I think I'd better get Alya home, while you take Nino home. It'll keep you out of your house. Besides, I'm sure their parents are a bit worried."
"You're good at this, Mari."
"It's all down to practice. Now help me find a crowbar, because those two are going to be impossible to separate."
Alya and Nino were still hugging each other.
Marinette cleared her throat, "Als, I hate to interrupt, but let's go see your family, okay?"
"Huh? Oh, right, Marinette. They'll want to see me. I was on TV after all."
"Nino, we should head to you place, too," Adrien said, "I'm sure you'd like a nap or something."
"Yeah, that's actually a good idea, mec. One thing though," he handed his headphones to Alya, "I've got some music on there that should help you relax. I'll get them back from you tonight."
"I'll see you later, handsome," Alya said, with Marinette pulling her to the scooter.
Adrien did likewise, dragging Nino into the car. Once Alya entered her apartment, her twin sisters practically tackled her to the ground.
"Alya," they said, "We saw you on TV!"
"I can't believe you're with that nerd boy," Nora joked.
"Alya, that was so brave and so dangerous," Marlena said.
"Sounds like a typical day for our Alya," Otis said, "Making us worry."
"Yeah, I am sorry about that."
"We're just glad you're safe, baby," Marlena said.
"I'm feeling tired after all that. I think I'll take a nap."
"I think that'd be wise," Otis said.
"I brought her home because Adrien wants to treat us to dinner tonight for his birthday, but it's not for a few hours."
"As long as your parents are okay with it, Marinette," Marlena said, "Of course you can stay here. Adrien is such a nice boy."
"Come on, Nette," Alya said, "Have a seat wherever's most comfortable"
Once in Alya's room, Marinette collapsed into a beanbag chair.
"Thanks for our talk at lunch Marinette."
"Mmmhmm."
"Nette, you have no idea how happy I feel. I..."
Marinette had dozed off. Alya shook her head and placed a blanket over her. She then kicked off her shoes and laid down on her bed.
"See you in a few hours, Nette," she said with a yawn.
Meanwhile, at Nino's place, his parents and brother were especially happy and proud.
"You were on TV! You got interviewed and everything!" Noël said, "You were awesome!"
"Thanks, bro."
"You quoting a song for a statement is hardly surprising," his dad said.
"Although the fact that you thought of it so quickly is surprising," his mom added.
"Yeah, well...I'm gonna take a nap. Come on, mec."
Nino placed his glasses on the desk, and then immediately collapsed on his bed. He turned over onto his back and pulled his cap over his eyes.
"Boy, that was fast," Adrien said quietly to himself, as he sat in a comfy chair, "Meanwhile, I don't feel tired at..."
He too fell asleep.
A few hours later...
Alya woke before Marinette. She decided to wait a while and listen to the music Nino picked out for her. After about another half hour, she changed her clothes, and then woke Marinette.
"Girl, you were really out of it."
"Yeah, I suppose that's what comes from always keeping busy. We'd better get back home. Whoa, you look amazing. Is that a new outfit?"
"Yeah, I guess it is. Been saving it for a special occasion."
"It's not even your birthday. Oh, wait, you mean," she wiggled her eyebrows, "Nino."
Alya blushed, "Cut it out."
"I still remember how flirtatious you were when you first met him. Now, all of a sudden, you're acting kind of demure."
"Hey, I love being flirty. That certainly won't change, but at the same time, things are different. You'll understand someday."
A quick scooter trip and they were at the bakery.
"You look relaxed, dear," Tom said.
"I took a nap, Papa. I'm going to wash up and change for dinner."
While she got ready, Alya and Marinette's parents made chit chat.
"You look positively radiant, Alya," Sabine said.
"Thanks, Mme. Cheng."
"Nino's a fine young man. I'm glad you both found each other."
"So am I, M. Dupain."
"Okay, I'm ready!" Marinette called out.
"You look great, Nette. Almost as good as me, in fact."
"Careful, Als, your Chloé is showing."
In no time at all, the other members of the group that were free for the evening began to show up. Adrien and Nino were the first to arrive. Nino, of course, walked straight up to Alya.
"Hi."
"Hi...I, uh, brought your headphones. I really liked your music."
"Thanks."
"Hey, Als," Marinette said, "We still have to wait for everyone else to arrive. Why don't you take Nino to my balcony and look at the sunset?"
"Huh? Oh, sure, Nette."
The couple went upstairs.
"Go look at the sunset?" Adrien asked.
"I had to think of something. They've barely spoken since they dropped the L bombs."
Nino and Alya stood on the balcony, looking out at the amazing view.
Alya decided to start things off, "Nino, do you think I'd look better with contacts?"
"Why would you ask that?"
"Well, you know what they say about -"
"Alya, I know that's not what you're really trying to say. Do you know why I got akumatized? Gabriel said a lot of nasty things about me, but the one that hurt the most was when he said I should be busy attempting to talk to a woman that's out of my league."
"Nino, I'm not out of your league. There are no leagues. He's just elitist."
"I know, but that made me think about what happened between us. I'm sorry I didn't explain myself. If I had, you wouldn't have been avoiding me."
"I'm sure that's true, but it doesn't matter anymore. We're together now. I really do love you."
"I believe you, babe. I'll say it again. I love you, too. Oh, and do you know what I really like about a girl who wears glasses?"
"What's that?"
He took off her glasses and tilted her chin up, "How beautiful you look without them as you do with them."
He leaned over for a kiss, but she held up a hand. She then took his glasses off.
"You're very handsome with and without your glasses, mon chéri."
This kiss was even better than the last.
"Hey!" Chloé voice rang out, "If you're going to do that, go inside!"
"Chloé, did you have to do that?" Zoé asked.
"Like that'll stop them. Do you know how long they've been pining after each other?"
"Not jealous, are you?" Luka asked.
"Those nerds deserve each other."
"I think he meant in the sense that you don't have a special someone," Kagami said.
"If I want a man, I can get one any time. I'm in no hurry though. Not when Adrien is still single."
"I thought you said you didn't feel that way towards Adrien?" Sabrina asked.
"I meant that if anyone deserves to be in a good relationship, it's him."
The four friends came out of the bakery.
"There you are, Adrikins. We're having dinner at the hotel. It's easier that way."
"That's fine by me, Chlo. As long as everyone else is okay with it."
Adrien, Marinette, Nino, and Alya, were in the car. Chloé, Zoé, Sabrina, Luka, and Kagami, were in the limo. They were all soon on the top floor. Alya waved at her mom as they all sat down. Chloé finally got a good look at Luka.
"I didn't realize you were capable of dressing in a fairly nice manner, band boy."
"You'll find I'm full of surprises."
Everyone soon had a good meal. Adrien stood up.
"A toast to my best -"
"AHEM!"
"Yes, Chlo... A toast to my best male friend, Nino. He's the hero of the day. He showed true courage."
"I did?"
"Of course you did. You were afraid to speak to my father, but you did so anyway. And when it would've been easy enough for you to yell at him, you walked away with your head held high. Now here we are, having a pleasant dinner. If you hadn't bothered to ask, I'd probably be sitting in my room right now."
"That's probably true," Chloé said, "Good job, M. DJ."
Everyone raised a glass, while Alya gave Nino a kiss on the cheek. Not long after that, everyone headed home. As soon as Alya was back, after she sent Nino a text, she got out a map and a sheet of paper.
"Who are you, Le Papillon? Where are you? What's your endgame? I'll figure this out eventually."
After about a week, it was another Friday. Marinette had noticed that Alya seemed deep in thought several times.
"Something wrong, Als?" Marinette asked.
"Now that I don't have to worry about Nino anymore, I keep thinking about how Papillon akumatized my dad. I won't let him get away with that. I'm going to find out who he is, and then celebrate once he's in prison."
"Okay, but how will you figure out his identity?"
"That's the problem. I don't really know where to start. I made a list of all the people akumatized so far, and where they were akumatized, but I don't think there's a pattern."
"If anyone can figure it out, babe," Nino said, "I know it's you."
"Thanks, Nino, but this is getting frustrating. There must be something I'm missing. I've got a free period, so I'm gonna go think some more."
"She's certainly tenacious," Adrien said.
"You have no idea," Nino replied.
Alya was now on the roof of the school.
"What am I missing? It can't be the victims, or their locations, so it must be who this jerk is. Who would have the resources to be a supervillain? Is there a connection to that smuggling ring they sometimes talk about on the news? He clearly wants more Miraculous, but to what end?"
At that very moment, Gabriel was in his lair and had transformed.
"Nathalie, that young would-be reporter girl is feeling annoyed and frustrated. She can't figure out the identity of Le Papillon. This gives me an idea."
"You don't have the best track record for cunning plans, sir."
"Just get Optigami over to Adrien's school. I'll show you what I have in mind."
While Alya was staring off into the horizon, lost in thought, the Akuma possessed her cellphone.
"Bonjour, Alya. I am Le Papillon."
"Yeah, what do you want?"
"You want to uncover the truth. I can help you with that."
"I want to find you more than anything. Why help me?"
"I like your determination. If you can find me, I might just surrender."
"Yeah, right."
"Perhaps if you also revealed the identities of the heroes, we could talk about it."
"Why would I expose the people keeping us safe?"
"Because you're a reporter in the making. It would make you rich and famous. Then you'd have all the resources you need at your disposal."
Alya felt herself slipping away, "Yeah, that does make sense."
"In that case, I shall give you the power of your cellphone, complete with your own signal. What do you think of the name Lady Wi-Fi?"
"That sounds perfect."
"Excellent! Now go out and get that big scoop."
The dark purple energy washed over Alya. She now wore a dark purple skintight outfit with a glowing pink Wi-Fi symbol on her chest. She also had white boots that reached her knees, and white gloves that reached her elbows. A vaguely butterfly-shaped domino mask covered her eyes, which had changed from a warm golden color to a harsh purple. Her cellphone was gripped tightly in her left hand.
"Let's leave no stone unturned, because the heroes could be hiding under them."
She used her power to tap into everyone's cellphone.
"Attention, people! This is Lady Wi-Fi with the latest story. Drop dead gorgeous reporter challenges the heroic duo of Ladybird and Matou Noir to turn themselves in for the greater good. I'll be waiting here for when you put up an inevitable fight. This time, the two of you won't be enough. Coming up next, my evil laugh. Ohohohohoho!"
"Oh, Als," Nino said, "Anything but the noblewoman's laugh."
She suddenly popped out of his cellphone screen, knocking him to the floor.
"I heard that, you critic! Everybody clear out of here! We don't need civilians getting involved."
Every student and teacher ran for the other side of the school, save of course for Adrien and Marinette, who both managed to duck into the nearest restroom. A whistle came from the courtyard.
"You asked for us, Lady Wi-Fi, and we have appeared!" Matou Noir called out.
Lady Wi-FI smiled, "And now we can begin. Nino, are you still here? You should've left with everyone else."
"How can I leave you when you're like this?"
"There's nothing you can do to stop me. Just sit back and enjoy the show."
She sashayed out the room, clearly intending for Nino to get a good look.
"Incroyable," Nino said, "It's like watching a metronome."
Lady Wi-Fi was now in the courtyard as well.
Ladybird gasped, "Alya? It is you. You've been akumatized!"
"Well well well, if it isn't Ladybird and Matou Noir. I was hoping you'd show up soon. I'm going to eliminate all secret identities."
"Isn't that against the rules or something?" Noir asked.
"Rules were made to be broken...or at least bent. Now why not just hold still so I can take your Miraculouses? The sooner I find out who you are, the sooner I can find out who Le Papillon really is."
"That seems like faulty logic."
"Yeah, can we take a rain check?" Ladybird said, as she dodged a symbol.
"Was that a flying pause symbol?"
"How astute of you, cat boy," Lady Wi-Fi snarked.
Just as she was about to launch an attack, Nino came running up.
"Alya, stop!" he shouted as he stood between her and the dynamic duo.
"My name is Lady Wi-Fi, little man. Now get out of my way."
"I know you don't really want to do this. That butterfly jerk is manipulating your reporter instincts for his benefit. You guys run for it and come up with a plan. I'll hold her off."
"Do you think we should?" Noir asked.
"I don't like it," Ladybird said, "But considering what happened last time, it might actually work. Come on."
The pair ran off to hide and strategize. Lady Wi-Fi sauntered up to Nino. It was only now he realized that being akumatized didn't just give Alya powers and a new outfit. It also made her much taller than he was. Out of all their friends, Nino was fourth tallest at 6'1", and normally Alya was slightly shorter at 5'10", but now he only reached her chest, meaning she was somewhere in the 8ft range.
He looked up at her, "Oh, so when you called me little, you meant literally."
"Yeah, and you just made my job harder, pipsqueak."
"If you were so worried about your job, you'd have left already. Maybe I'm just too handsome."
She arched an eyebrow, "Aren't you confident?"
Lady Wi-Fi kept moving closer, while Nino kept backing up. He was now up against a wall, with Lady Wi-Fi looming over him, one arm on either side.
"What's the matter?" she asked, "Are you nervous?"
He gulped, "Um...no."
She snickered, "You're lying, but you're just too cute."
Meanwhile, Le Papillon was getting frustrated.
"Why does she keep talking to him? Lady Wi-Fi, leave him there and go get the heroes."
"I'm busy."
He tried forcing her, "I said go after the heroes."
"Hey, back off and let me do my job my way, butterfly man!"
Papillon growled, "That's it! De-transform!"
"Upset, Gabriel?" Nathalie asked, filing her nails.
"OF COURSE I AM! My Akuma victim isn't doing her job. She keeps playing around with that badly dressed bumpkin!"
"What do you expect, Gabriel? They're hormonal teenagers. Why not just take away her powers?"
"That would require me to re-connect with her, and frankly her flirtations were disgusting to listen to."
"Why not force her to do her job? You can do that, right?"
"I tried...her will is stronger than anticipated."
"Well then I guess it's time for me to do my job. Tranformez moi."
She created her Amok and merged it with the coffee cup she had brought in. She then held out her hand and began to create a new Sentimonster. It was a large humanoid creature made of electricity.
"What do you think? I call it Overload."
"A creature of electricity to succeed where a person with cellphone powers failed. How fitting."
She grabbed the coffee cup, "Overload, I am Mayura. You will follow me and then defeat the heroes."
The Sentimonster nodded and waited.
"Follow you? You mean you're going to the school?"
"Unlike Optigami, this Sentimonster was made for combat. I have to be there to optimize its fighting prowess. The heroes will more than likely see me, but it was a risk we had to take eventually."
She unfurled a pair of wings, kicked off the wall, and went through the sunroof, Overload following in a bolt of lightning. Mayura took large leaps from rooftop to rooftop, and she was soon at the school. At that very same moment...
"Lucky Charm!"
"Another cellphone? How's that gonna help us stop someone with cellphone power?"
"I'm not sure...unless, it's not actually for her."
"What do you mean? She's the one who's been akumatized. Who else could it be for?"
"That is the question."
"Yes, that is a question. You certainly know a question when you hear it."
Suddenly, his smile disappeared.
Ladybird was confused, "What's the...matter?"
They were both looking around, as if expecting something.
"Dodge!" they both yelled.
A bolt of lightning struck the ground where they were standing. The creature of electricity formed and began lashing out at them. As they dodged the blows, they saw a figure in dark blue, hiding their face with a large hand fan.
"It's the Peacock," Noir stated.
From behind the fan came a distinctly feminine voice, "Overload, get me their Miraculous."
The electrical creature was crawling along the walls. It leapt at the heroes, and they were forced to run.
Meanwhile...
Lady Wi-Fi was busy kissing Nino. He was disinclined to stop her.
"Underneath it all, she's still Alya," he thought, "This certainly proves that."
"I have a job to do," Lady Wi-Fi said between kisses, "You can't keep distracting me."
"Oh yeah, it's totally my fault."
That's when she saw movement out of the corner of her eye.
"Hey, wait a minute. If I'm here, then who are they fighting?"
"I think you've been replaced, Your Ladyship."
"Watch your mouth, shorty. I'm gonna figure this out," she winked at him, "Don't go anywhere. In fact, let's take a picture first."
Lady Wi-Fi pulled him close and got a picture with her phone. She then rushed over to where Ladybird and Matou Noir were trying to fight against Overload. She noticed the villain ominously overlooking the area.
"Hey, Mme. Bleu, what do you think you're doing?"
"My name is Mayura, and I'm doing what you failed to do, Lady Wi-Fi. My Sentimonster is far more efficient. For one thing, it follows orders."
"We'll see about that!"
Lady Wi-Fi began firing a barrage of symbols from her phone. Ladybird spun her yo-yo to deflect the projectiles. Matou Noir was busy taking swipes at the Sentimonster with his staff, but nothing seemed to slow it down. Nino peeked around the corner.
"I know I should stay out of this, but Alya helped save me when I was akumatized. I have to try and save her."
"What are you doing?"
Nino practically jumped 10 feet into the air.
"Chloé! What are you doing here? I mean besides giving me a heart attack."
"I asked you first, even though I know the answer. Your bespectacled beauty has turned supervillain, and even though from what I saw you really like when she's a bad girl, you'd rather snap her out of it."
"That about sums it up."
"Why not sneak onto the roof?" Zoé asked.
"Where did you come from?" Chloé asked.
"Hey, where you go, I go. Someone's gotta keep an eye on you."
"Wait, the roof? Are you talking about that creepy blue woman?" Nino asked.
"Well, that monster didn't show up until she did."
"Which means she must be controlling it somehow."
Nino ran off and found the door to the roof. He opened the door as quietly as possible. He noticed the bird woman was holding a coffee cup behind her hand fan. He snuck up behind her, but at the last second, she spun around and smacked him with her fan.
"Nice try, but if the heroes couldn't stop me, what chance do you have?"
"I admit I shouldn't be getting involved, but your boss messed with the woman I love."
"My boss?"
"As if you weren't working with Le Papillon."
"I will neither confirm nor deny."
"I don't know why, but something about that coffee cup..."
Back on the ground, Lady Wi-Fi was fed up with her projectiles failing, so she decided to switch to hand-to-hand combat.
"Hey, uh, My Lady."
"Yeah?"
"I don't suppose we could switch opponents?"
"Why not? I could go for a change of pace."
Ladybird began spinning her yo-yo at Overload, while Matou Noir held up his fists against Lady Wi-Fi. However, something else got her attention.
"Nino?! What are you doing up there?! Outta my way, man cat!"
Nino was running away from Mayura, and now cellphone was ringing.
"I wonder who that could be?" he said, answering without looking at the screen, "Hello?"
Lady Wi-Fi popped out of his screen again and immediately tackled Mayura.
"Don't you dare touch him!"
"Get off me, you Amazonian imbecile! Overload, get up here and get Lady Wi-Fi out of the way!"
The electrical creature climbed up the wall. Just as Mayura managed to kick Lady Wi-Fi off of her, Overload struck the cellphone supervillain with a bolt of lightning.
"ALYA!" Nino screamed.
Lady Wi-Fi looked like she was about to collapsed any second. She fell to her knees and Mayura walked up to gloat.
"Maybe next time you'll follow orders, you reject from a tabloid."
Lady Wi-Fi, although she looked exhausted, quickly smacked the coffee cup of of Mayura's hand, and then slumped to the ground.
"NO!"
Before she could grab it, Matou Noir, who was waiting for the right moment, snatched the coffee cup.
"Overload," he ordered, "Apprehend Mayura."
The spindly creature turned its one eye towards its creator.
"So you got the amokized object," Mayura scoffed, "I created the Sentimonster, which means all I need to do is this."
A quick snap of her fingers, and Overload was destroyed. The Amok feather popped out of the coffee cup. Ladybird snagged it with her yo-yo.
"Looks like you're without your Akuma and your Amok," Ladybird observed, "Which means you're outnumbered."
Mayura sighed, "There's always something. This was a dumb idea anyway."
She beat a hasty retreat, with Optigami following. Meanwhile, Nino had turned Alya onto her back and was trying to hold her up. Which considering the height difference wasn't easy.
"Alya, babe, please wake up."
As if on command, she opened her eyes.
"Nino? Are you okay?"
"What are you asking me that for? You're the one who got struck by lightning. Why did you do that?"
Lady Wi-Fi gave a weak laugh, "People always do crazy things when they're in love."
Her face was now becoming strained. The Butterfly symbol appeared on her face, and was then shattered. The Akuma dizzily flew out of her cellphone. She pulled Nino close and kissed him as she changed back into Alya and fell unconcious.
"I've got the Akuma, My Lady. We better do this quick."
"I agree."
"Miraculous!"
The purified butterfly flew away, and when Ladybird opened her yo-yo, the feather was also purified.
The Lair
Mayura snuck back into the lair. Gabriel wasn't there. She grabbed her tablet and saw he left a message on it.
"Went to lie down, Gabriel"
"I do all the work, but he gets to take a nap."
The school
Just then, Alya woke up.
"Oh, man, I...Nino? Are you okay?"
He smiled, "I'm great, gorgeous. Are you okay?"
"I feel a little tired, and a lot hungry, but other than that...hey, you guys are here! We still haven't done that interview, but I'm in no condition right now. I was akumatuzed, right?"
"You were, Alya," Ladybird said, "But you broke out of it, just like Nino."
"You hear that, fellow nerd? That means we're both cool."
"Let me help you get home, Alya," Nino said.
"What are going to do, carry me? I just need a few minutes to compose myself."
"Next time, definitely, Alya," Matou Noir said, "Right, My Lady?"
"Oh, for sure. See you two later."
The duo ran off to de-transform. Meanwhile, Nino was carrying Alya to a bench.
"Nino, don't strain yourself."
"Don't act like you aren't enjoying this, babe."
"That's not the point," she said, looking away.
"You are okay, though, right, Alya?"
"I feel fine now, but I can't really remember anything. Nino...did I do anything bad?"
"Um...that depends on your definition of bad."
"Did I hurt anybody?"
"Oh, then no."
"That's a relief. Wait, what exactly did you mean by definition?"
His eyes got shifty, "What do you mean? It's a perfectly normal question."
"You know, there is one thing I seem to recall pretty well."
"Oh yeah, what's that?"
"You."
Nino gave off a nervous laugh, "What about me?"
"You got pictures of me, didn't you?"
"Well, uh, maybe a few. I knew you'd want some for the blog."
"Let me see," she said, snatching his phone, "Wow."
"Cool costume, huh?" he said, "You might want to check your own phone."
"Hey, look at that. Nino, why do you look so nervous? What did I do?"
"You really don't remember?"
"It's kind of fuzzy."
"Well then...it's just that you were, um...really flirtatious."
"Huh...so even akumatized I headed straight for you. Wait a minute...were you turned on by this?"
"What? No!"
She smirked, "What was it, Nino? The costume, the attitude, the height difference? I had no idea you had a thing for bad girls."
Nino hid his face with his cap as she started laughing. That's when Marinette and Adrien got back.
"Are you guys okay?" Marinette asked.
"I can now add myself to the list of akumatized people, and I'm no closer to figuring out who Le Papillon is, but other than that..."
"Maybe the pair of you could brainstorm together," Adrien suggested, "Perhaps over dinner?"
Nino and Alya looked at each other, "Dinner?"
"Well, yeah, I mean, have you two actually been on a proper date since you got together?"
Alya was thinking, "Now that you mention it..."
"I guess we haven't had the time yet," Nino said.
"Well, we know you don't have any money," Marinette said, "So just come over to my place."
"Are you sure, Nette?"
"Sure I'm sure, Nino. Why not? We can set the date for tomorrow. You just show up and look nice, and I'll cook the meal."
"I'll provide the transportation," Adrien said.
With the terms agreed upon, everyone went home for the day. Marinette explained to whole thing to her parents. Once the bakery closed for the day, Tom and Sabine went out for some alone time.
"You sure you won't need our help, Marinette?" Tom asked.
"Thanks, Papa, but I've been wanting to try this recipe after I saw in online."
"Well, call us if you need anything, sweetie," Sabine said.
"Thanks, Maman."
After that, Marinette picked up Alya, who was waiting with a duffle bag. Once at the bakery, Alya got dressed up, while Marinette started cooking.
"Go on upstairs and relax, Als," Marinette said, "You can change any time."
"You're too good to me, Marinette."
Soon, Adrien's car pulled up. Nino had a backpack on.
"Go change in the bathroom, Nino."
"Thanks, Nette."
That left Adrien and Marinette in the kitchen.
"Where's your bodyguard?"
"He's taking a nap in the car. I told him it'd be okay. After all, you guys are all here. So what's on the menu?"
"I think it's a roast. We just have to let it cook. Oh, Nino, you look so handsome."
"Thanks, Nette, I try."
"Go on up and entertain Alya. We'll bring the food."
"I can do that."
After he went upstairs, Marinette and Adrien stood around for a few minutes.
"Well," Marinette said, "We still have plenty of time. How about a game?"
"Like a video game?"
"I've got Ultra Mecha Strike III if you want."
"Are you kidding? I've looking for a new opponent."
"Well then bring it on, blondie."
Upstairs, Nino saw Alya looking at herself in the mirror.
"Do you ever not look amazing?"
"Never," she said with a wink, "Although...can I ask you a question?"
"It's not a trick question, is it?"
"No, Nino. I'm sure you've noticed that I'm a bit...thicker than the other girls."
"Boy, have I."
"So it doesn't bother you that I'm...well, I wouldn't say I'm fat. I'm curvy."
"Puberty has been inordinately kind to you, babe," he said, putting his hands on her thighs, "Your body drives me crazy, but the fact that you're willing to give all the crazy stuff I like a try is what really sends me."
"Thanks, Nino. I know I look good, but it's always nice to hear from someone else."
"Any time, gorgeous," he began kissing her neck.
She gave a sharp inhale, "Nino, you're an animal."
"You better believe it."
Alya sniffed, "Do you smell something burning?"
"Maybe Nette's making spinach puffs or something. She said she'd handle it," he began to massage her shoulders, "Now where were we?"
Meanwhile, Marinette and Adrien kept having ties in their fighting game.
"You're the toughest opponent I've had yet," Adrien said.
"I've got a lucky charm. That certainly helps."
"I've got a lucky charm as well though."
"I guess that's why we keep getting ties."
"Okay, one more game to decide the match."
They both button mashed as much as they could, but Marinette won. They both leaned back on the couch.
"Is there anything you can't do, Mari?"
"Oh, come on, I'm not perfect."
"Marinette, ever since we've met, no, even before we met, you've been so nice to me. I don't know if I've ever told you how much I truly appreciate it," he took her hand, "Thank you so much."
She blushed, "Oh, well...it was my pleasure."
Adrien began to lean forward, while Marinette did likewise...
"Oh no!" Marinette cried, jumping up.
That's when Adrien noticed the problem, "Egads!"
Marinette took the roast out of the over and threw it in the sink.
"I knew I shouldn't have tried cooking something I've never done before without my parents. The roast is ruined. What are gonna tell Nino and Alya?"
The went to the top of the stairs and opened the hatch ever so slightly. They couldn't get a good look at what was going on, but they could hear a lot of happy sounds.
"Oh, Nino..."
They quickly went back down the stairs.
"...where did you learn to give foot massages?"
"It's a gift, ma belle."
Marinette and Adrien didn't want to know what their friends were doing.
"Okay, so they're preoccupied," Marinette said, "But they can only keep it up for so long. They're bound to get hungry for actual food eventually. I don't have time to cook something else."
Adrien got a devious smile on his face, "What if...we were to purchase fast food as pass it off as our own cooking?"
"I'd say that's delightfully devious. Sounds like something Chloé would come up with. She's a bad influence."
"Do you have a better idea?"
"No, so I say, what the heck? Let's do it."
Just as they were about to step outside...
"Excuse me, mecs, don't mean to interrupt, but I wanted to get some water. Wait, where are you going?"
"Oh, we were just stretching, that's all," Marinette explained.
He nodded and grabbed a few bottled waters. Then he noticed the charred remains of the roast.
"What's with the smoke?"
"That isn't smoke," Adrien said, "That's steam."
"It smells like smoke."
"Nino, I think Marinette knows what she's doing."
He shrugged, "Fair enough. I'll let you get to it."
He went back upstairs. The duo then ran outside to the car, startling Placide.
"Take us to the nearest burger place," Adrien said.
"Burgers?"
"It's the most likely food they'll believe we could make."
"Good point."
So they ordered four small cheeseburgers, some fries, some chicken nuggets, and two large sodas. They got back as soon as they could. They got rid of anything that made it look like they bought the food from a restaurant.
*Knock knock knock*
They could hear footsteps heading for the balcony.
"Come in," they said.
As they went into the room, they saw Nino and Alya were sitting at the table outside.
"Nino, Als," Marinette said, "I hope you're prepared for mouth-watering burgers."
"What was that burnt up thing in the sink?" Nino asked.
"That? It's unrelated to what I was actually cooking."
"Nino said you were steaming something," Alya said.
"She meant it in the sense that, in America, some people call burgers steamed hams," Adrien explained.
"Adrien, I've lived in America. I've never heard anyone call burgers steamed hams."
"You lived in the southern U.S. though, right?"
"Yeah."
"Well this is an expression from parts of New York. So, how's the food?"
"It is delicious. Although, truth be told, it tastes remarkably similar like the food at that fast food place down the street."
"Oh no," Marinette said, "It's an old family recipe."
"How could your family, with ancestry from China, Italy, and France, have a recipe for a burger?" Nino asked.
"Well...you know...I...excuse me for one second."
Marinette rushed downstairs, dragging Adrien with her.
"She's trying so hard, isn't she?" Alya asked with a smile.
"I'm just wondering how far she's willing to go with her story," Nino said.
Marinette was starting to panic.
"Why am I panicking? It's just a dinner with friends. What am I so worked up about? I never should've lied. I'm a failure!"
Adrien grabbed her gave her a hug, "I'm sorry, Mari. It was my idea. I didn't think you would worry so much."
Marinette looked at him, without thinking, she kissed him on the lips. She ended the kiss very quickly.
"I am so sorry. I don't know why I did that."
Adrien pulled her back for another kiss.
"Don't be sorry, Mari. Now let's tell them the truth."
"...okay."
They went back upstairs. Nino and Alya had finished their meal.
"Did you come to tell us that you bought this food because you burnt the roast?" Alya asked.
"How did you know?" Marinette asked.
"It was pretty obvious, Nette," Nino said, "We don't mind."
"Of course not," Alya added, "All that matters is that you're with someone special."
Marinette looked over at Adrien, who was busy looking at the walls.
"I'd better be getting home," Alya said.
"Thanks for dinner, Nette. You, too, mec."
Adrien gave a bow, while Marinette gave a curtsey. Adrien was giving both Nino and Alya a ride home.
"Call you tomorrow, girl."
"Goodnight, Als."
"Thanks again, Nette."
"My pleasure, Nino."
"See you later, Mari."
Her heart started beating fast, "Later."
They drove off. Marinette walked back inside in a daze. She collapsed onto the couch.
"What a night."