Notes: Remember to always use an outline

Disclaimer: I don't own the Miraculous franchise

Miraculous Universe

Ch.15: Branching Out

As the weeks went by, Adrien and Marinette tried to work out more opportunities to see each other. All their friends gladly assisted in this endeavor...except Chloé, who assisted while snarking. Chloé let them use her room for another date.

"Only for you, Adrien. Just don't make a mess."

Luka allowed them to hang out inside the houseboat.

"This is a bit more risky than a hotel," he said, "But we all need a bit of variety."

Gabriel was a bit suspicious of Adrien going out so much, but he never thought it could be for a date. It was either that, or he didn't care what Adrien was doing. One day though...

"Nathalie, have you noticed that Adrien has been going out a lot more often?"

"Only on the weekends."

"You don't think he might be...seeing someone, do you?"

"You mean like dating? He knows you don't want him to date right now, especially without your approval first. He's probably just seeing his friends. That's what teenagers do, sir."

Gabriel said nothing and continued his work.

Nathalie had a thought, "Is it possible that Adrien is secretly dating someone? Whatever. As long as he's not doing anything that could tarnish the family/business reputation, what do I care?"

At the same time, Chloé and Zoé were still celebrating the Style Queen now being out of their lives forever. They already spent a lot of time together, what with being sisters, but now they seemed inseparable. With Christmas vacation not too far away, they decided to do something special.

"My angels," André said, "To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?"

"Papa, we've been thinking," Chloé started.

"Why don't we go out of town this Christmas to really celebrate being a family?" Zoé said.

"I think I can make a few arrangements. Did you have anywhere in mind?"

"New York!" they both said.

He chuckled, "I might've known. I suppose it's about time we visit Zoé's neck of the woods, so to speak."

So with that decided, it was just a matter of packing and telling everyone else.

"Adrikins, I'll be going to New York for Christmas. So please find someone almost as great as I am to spend time with, as I hate the idea of you being alone at home."

"I think I can do that," he replied with a smile.

Later...

"Sabrina, I won't be here for Christmas. We're off on a family trip to New York."

"Really?! That sounds amazing! I'm so happy for you."

"Thanks, Brina. I'll be sure to get you a souvenir. Talk to you later."

As she hung up the phone, she thought, "I'm glad she's so happy...so why do I feel kind of sad?"

Later still...

"Hey, music man. Just thought I'd let you know you'll have to find something else to do this Christmas, because I won't be here. A family trip to New York is on our agenda."

"I'm sure you'll have fun."

"Most definitely. As for you, though, try not to be too bored while I'm away."

She then hung up. Luka let out a sigh.

"What's the matter?" Juleka asked.

"Life is so complicated."

She had to laugh, "What else is new?"

The next day, Adrien talked to Nathalie.

"Nathalie, the Bourgeoise family are going out of town for Christmas."

"That's nice," she replied, not looking up from her tablet.

"Since I know you and father will be busy even on Christmas, I was hoping you wouldn't mind if I, and Placide of course, went to someone else's house this year."

"I'll see what I can do. You know how your father is."

"Yeah, moping around every Christmas because he misses mom."

"I miss her, too, Adrien. I know you do as well."

"Yeah, but I'd rather not just sit around and brood. I want to be around people that make me happy."

Nathalie looked up to see he had a depressed look on his face.

"Okay, just...let me know exactly where you're going and I'll let your father know."

He surprised her with a hug.

"Thank you."

He then ran upstairs to his room.

She rubbed her eyes, "Even when he's not trying, he wins you over."

As soon as it was Christmas break, Chloé, Zoé, and André left for the airport that afternoon.

"These people are, what, like 6 hours behind us?" Chloé asked.

"That's about right," Zoé replied.

As soon as they got in the limo...

"What if the team needs us?" Zoé asked in a whisper.

"Don't worry," Chloé said, "I talked to Adrien. If they really need us, they'll just use the Horse Miraculous to come get us. The benefits of teleportation."

Once there, over the next few days, Zoé showed them the sights. They saw tourist attractions, tried the food, and paid a very brief visit to her father and step-mother. Chloé had to be restrained so that she didn't beat up the Lee couple. One other thing that got their attention was a newspaper article about the Style Queen losing a lot of influence due to many others not wanting to associate with her after seeing her fight with her own family. Chloé read the story and let out a maniacal laugh.

Zoé sighed, "I'm glad being overdramatic is a family trait."

Meanwhile...

Back in France, Adrien decided to spend time with Kagami.

"I'm very surprised you decided to stay over with me. I figured you'd be with Nino."

"I thought about it, but then I thought, you're alone...just like me. We're friends, and we have to stick together. Besides, we're all going to Marinette's house on Christmas Day for a little get together."

"I didn't get anyone anything."

"No on expects you to, Kagami. They just want to spend time with you. I know you don't see all my other friends very often, but they're very fond of you."

Now she was even more surprised, "Really?"

"Really really. Oh, and go ahead and call up your friend Ondine and invite her."

The next day, Placide drove Adrien, Kagami, and Ondine to the bakery. Everyone else was already there. Nino was intentionally holding mistletoe over Alya.

"You know, Nette," Socqueline said, "You're one of our most frequent customers with all your projects."

"I'm well aware. I'm very grateful you give me the smallest discount possible."

The girls laughed. Socqueline noticed the new guest arrivals and pointed towards the door.

"Adrien," Marinette said as she hugged him, "I'm glad you could make it. That goes for you, too, M. Bodyguard."

Placide smiled and nodded.

"Wouldn't miss it, Mari," Adrien replied, "It's nice to see such a big turnout."

She then hugged Kagami, "Great to see you again."

"Uh...thank you."

"Hey, Kagami!" Nino said, "Genkidesu ka?"

Kagami was surprised yet again, "Uh... Wakarimashita, arigatō."

"Subarashī!"

He held out his fist, and she reciprocated with a fist bump.

"Did you catch any of that, Adrien?" Kagami teased.

"Hey, come on. I know the basics."

"Adrien doesn't know nearly as much Japanese as me," Nino explained, "It helps me to truly appreciate their music."

"That's my man," Alya said, latching onto his arm.

"Ignore their teasing, Adrien," Marinette said, "Your Chinese is impeccable."

Ondine said hello to everyone, but made a beeline for Kim. He was talking with Max, Alix, and Nathaniel.

"Hi, Kim."

"Oh, hey, Ondine."

Alix punched him in the arm.

"Ow! What was that for?"

She gestured at Ondine.

"Oh...I mean...you look very nice."

Max cleared his throat.

"Oh, I mean...you look very pretty."

Nathaniel nudged him.

"Oh, and I hope you've had a good day."

Ondine giggled, "Thank you, Kim. My day's been good, but it's even better now. How are you?"

"Oh, you know. Can't complain."

Just then, Luka, Juleka, and Rose arrived.

"Glad you could make it, Luka," Marinette said.

"Wouldn't miss it," he said, looking around, "I did just notice something though."

"What's that?"

"Even if she neglected to tell anyone, it's obvious Chloé isn't here."

"That's correct," Adrien said.

"So what about Sabrina?"

Kagami snapped her fingers, "That's what was bothering me."

"Nobody remembered to invite her? This is so embarrassing!"

"Well chastising ourselves won't solve anything," Kagami said, "Let's just go get her."

"Always right to the point," Adrien said, "Placide? We need to go get Sabrina right now."

Placide grabbed a few snacks and headed for the car.

"Everyone just hang tight," Marinette said, "Sabrina should be here, so we're going to get her. Come on, Adrien."

"She was one of my first friends," Kagami said, "I'm going with you."

"Count me in, too," Luka said.

"Maman, Papa, we'll be right back!"

"Be careful!" Tom and Sabine called out.

The quickly drove to Sabrina's house.

"Excuse us, Mme. Raincomprix," Adrien said, "We're here to pick up Sabrina."

"Thank goodness you're here," she said, "Roger had to do a thankfully short shift, so my poor Brina has been rather mopey."

"Yeah, we're sorry about that," Marinette said, "We didn't realize no one sent her an invite."

"It was an informal sort of thing," Luka added, "We figured someone must've told her. It's a glaring oversight."

"I appreciate it. Go right on up and get her."

"I'll take care of that," Kagami said.

She ran upstairs. Sabrina was just lying on her bed, staring at the ceiling.

"Sabrina, you're far too intelligent to be sitting around doing absolutely nothing. You should at least be writing something or listening to music."

"Kagami? I was just thinking about how Chloé wasn't here. I didn't expect you at all."

"Chloé isn't your only friend, Sabrina. I'm sorry it took so long to remind you of that. Now come along. Marinette is having a small party at her house. Since you obviously have no other plans, you must come with. Now throw on something fairly nice and let's go."

"Thanks, but I don't know if I..."

She saw the stern look on Kagami's face.

"...I was just going to say that I have just the outfit."

In a few minutes, Sabrina was ready. Kagami gave her a hug.

"I never figured you to be the type to hug."

"Things change, Brina. I am sorry again for not coming to get you sooner. Now come, everyone's waiting."

As she descended, Sabrina was now surprised.

"Adrien, Marinette, and Luka? You all came to get me?"

"You're not our friend for nothing," Adrien said.

"Not to mention the friends we have on common," Luka said.

They were soon back at the party. Everyone there happily greeted Sabrina.

"Just wasn't the same without you," Alix said.

They then spent the day eating, chatting, playing games, and watching a few Christmas specials. Just after the sun set, Adrien got a call.

"What up, Adrikins? Is that what they say here?"

"Close enough," Zoé said.

Adrien smiled, "Everyone, I've got a video call from a certain someone. Better gather around."

Chloé was on the screen.

"Hello, all!"

"I thought we were going to say hello at the same time?" Zoé asked.

"You missed the timing."

"I did not! You're just lying!"

The sisters kept shoving each other out of the picture. They were now sitting cheek to cheek.

"Glad to see you're all bothering Marinette for a change," Chloé said, "It's about time we used someone else's house for a party."

"Is Sabrina there?" Zoé asked.

"Here I am!" she cried, making her way to the front of the group.

"We'll be back in no time, bestie. Now where's that green-haired goofball?"

"Pretty sure that's me," Luka said, stepping forward.

"You'd better have a song ready for me when I get back."

"Oh yeah, I'll totally get on that."

"Well, as much as I enjoy interrupting and having everyone looking at me, we'd better get going."

"We'll be back real soon," Zoé added.

"Catch you on the flip side! Are you sure that's what they say here?"

She was trying not to laugh, "More or less, Chlo."

They hung up and decided to find a movie to watch.

"Is there something going on between you and Luka?" Zoé asked.

"No, why?"

"Then why would you make him play you a song?"

"Uh, duh, because I'm awesome! Besides, I'm a naturally flirtatious person."

"Yeah, I don't think that's true."

"We're getting off the subject."

Zoé sighed, "If you say so, Chlo."

The party soon came to an end. A few days after that, the Bourgeois family returned. Chloé and Zoé went to get Sabrina so they could tell her everything. They were relaxing in Chloé's room.

"Anything big happen while we were gone?"

"Not really, Chlo. Unless you want me to tell you that Marinette is trying for her driver's license so she can upgrade from motorized scooter to motorcycle."

"Ooh, that's so cool," Zoé said.

"Speaking of cool, I forgot to take care of something that's not cool."

"What's that?" Sabrina asked.

"It's not important."

"If you're not going to tell me, you shouldn't have brought it up."

"She doesn't need to tell us," Zoé said, "It's obvious she's going to see Luka."

"Both of you mind your own business."

She decided to ride her bike there.

"Bet you didn't know I had a bike."

"I kinda figured someone like you would at least get a motorized scooter like Marinette."

"Whatever."

She then said nothing for about a minute.

"AHEM!"

"Oh, excuse me," he tried to sound enthusiastic, "Welcome back, Chloé."

"Thanks."

"I missed you," he said in a more honest tone.

"Seriously?"

"I dunno. Maybe."

"Humph! Okay then..."

"I wrote you a song, just as you demanded."

"Really? I didn't think you'd take me seriously. And besides that, I wasn't even gone that long."

"Well, I didn't actually write it. I just took a pre-existing song and changed the lyrics."

"I probably would've done the same thing. Well, let's hear it."

He grabbed his guitar.

"Come back to Paris. It's just not the same since you went away. Before you lose your accent, and forget all about La Ville Lumière. There's a seat for you at the Roue de Paris, and I've got every slow dance saved. Besides any French food that's not from here is gonna suck anyway. Yeah!"

"Wow. That actually didn't suck."

"You're too kind."

She looked at her phone, "Well...I guess I can stick around for a few more minutes. I mean, you know, if you want to play something else."

"As you wish."

She sat down to enjoy the music, but wasn't sure of the tune. It sounded vaguely Latin.

Time passes

School started back up once again. Chloé told every student who would listen of her trip to New York. Zoé would chime in when she could, while Sabrina would sit nearby and say nothing.

"Why does this bother me so much?" Sabrina thought.

She got up and walked to another part of the school without anyone noticing.

The Lair

"Well now, if it isn't Chloé's dorky, little friend. She feels like she's not good enough. Now isn't that a shame?"

Nathalie rolled her eyes, "How do you intend to take advantage of it, Gabriel?"

"I have an excellent idea. I may not be able to perfectly copy the powers of the other Miraculous, but I can steal them."

"That actually does sound like a good idea. I'd better go to make sure it doesn't fail spectacularly."

"Oh, ye of little faith. However, seeing as how they have six members on their team, perhaps that would be ideal."

Nathalie had already transformed into Mayura and flew out the window.

The school

Sabrina was looking at her brooch, feeling depressed. The Akuma possessed the brooch.

"Bonjour, Sabrina. I am Le Papillon. I can feel your sadness and frustration. I can help you regain the attention you seek."

"I don't know...I just don't know."

"Don't think about it. Let yourself go."

Sabrina said nothing.

"I'll give you the power to turn invisible, as well as steal the powers of any Miraculous hero you touch. No one will ever ignore you again, unless you want them to. From now on, you are...Invisi-Miracle."

Sabrina was overcome with emotion now, "Yes...all eyes on me...even when I'm not there."

Her entire body became shiny and reflective like a mirror, and she gained at least a foot in height. With a rather psychotic smile, she disappeared. Chloé was now looking around the school for Sabrina.

"Sabrina! Where'd you go?"

She checked her phone.

C: Find her yet?

Z: Not yet

Just as she was continuing her search, she felt someone pulling her hair.

"Ow! Why you -"

She spun around, but there was no one there. She was then pushed one way, and then again in another.

"Okay...don't freak out...don't jump to conclusions..."

"You'll regret neglecting me," a creepy voice whispered in her ear.

She looked over her shoulder and saw nothing.

"Huh, whaddya know? Nobody there. Okay...ZOÉ!"

Zoé rushed over to her as fast as she could. Marinette and Alya were with her.

"Whats's the matter? Did you find Sabrina?"

"There's what I can only assume is an invisible Akuma around here somewhere. And don't give me any of that rubbish about how I'm lying to get attention."

"Oh, nonsense, mon sœur. I know you never lie...just exaggerate"

"Well I'm not exaggerating when I say that I think this Akuma is Sabrina."

"What makes you say that?" Alya asked.

"My mouth, and also what she whispered to me. She said I had neglected her. I guess, in a way, without meaning to...I did."

A sinister giggle came out of nowhere.

"I can see you, Chloé. Can you see me? As much fun as it is driving you mad, there's one thing I'd like even more. I want the heroes. When I defeat them and take their Miraculous, you'll see how powerful I am. You'll beg to be my friend after that."

"Sabrina, you are my friend. You don't have to do all this."

She appeared right next to her, "Don't I?!"

"Ah, geez! Put on a bell or something!"

"You don't think I'm good enough anymore! Don't deny it! You always spend more time with Zoé, or Adrien, or even Luka. What am I? So go ahead and call the heroes. I relish the chance to take them on. Then they'll see what I can do."

With that, she disappeared once again.

"Okay, so she wants us to set a trap," Marinette said.

"I think the best thing to do would be to spring it," Alya added.

"What do you mean by us?" Chloé asked, "What are you going to do? All you need to do is wait for the heroes to show up and get out of the way."

"Right, sorry," Marinette said, "Force of habit."

"The only way she'll leave everyone else alone is if I play along with her game. That means you'll have to go, Zoé. Can you give us a minute, please?"

Marinette and Alya left.

"I'm heading for the courtyard, Sabrina. Just please let me talk to Zoé alone."

There was no reply, so Chloé went into the nearest classroom. She grabbed a stack of paper and threw it all into the air, scattering it all around the immediate area. She thought she saw a shape moving away.

"Okay, now we're alone," she whispered, switching to English just to be safe, "You'll have to take the Bee."

"What?"

"Don't argue. We'll need its power, and if she's constantly watching me, I can't transform. Now do as you're told."

She handed her the comb. Zoé nodded as she quickly grabbed the comb and placed it in her hair. She then immediately reached under her shirt, pulled out the talon pendant, and placed it around Chloé's neck.

"Just in case," she said, running off.

She was gone before Chloé could object. She shook her head as she hid the pendant under her shirt. She started walking to the courtyard.

"You could make this easy on yourself and give up," Chloé said aloud, in case Sabrina was nearby.

She was now in the middle of the courtyard. She looked around for any sign of Sabrina, the heroes, or anyone else that might be nearby.

"No sign of anyone yet. Hey, wait a minute. What is that on that roof? Or rather I should ask, who is that?"

It was Mayura, and Optigami was perched on her shoulder.

"Looks like they sent backup for you, Sabrina. I guess they don't trust you to do the job alone."

"Don't call me by that name anymore," she said, reappearing, "It's now Invisi-Miracle. Where are the heroes hiding?"

"How should I know?"

"Maybe they need some incentive to get here faster."

She materialized a pair of tonfa-styled batons out of her body.

"Aren't you made of glass or something? Won't those things break?"

"These batons are tough as diamond. Plus I have another trick up my sleeve."

Suddenly, Tortank's shield came out of nowhere and smacked the Akuma in the face, sending her flying back. Ladybird, Matou Noir, Tortank, and Zorrua leapt out from their hiding spots to try and dogpile Sabrina. She quickly went invisible before they got too close. They all looked around for her. She appeared behind Matou Noir and struck him with her baton. A small green pawprint icon appeared on her chest.

She smirked, "Catacylsm!"

"How did she...?"

She charged one of her batons with the Cat's power and slammed it into Noir's chest, sending flying into the nearest wall.

Ladybird flew over to him, "Are you okay?"

"Ow...that..really hurt."

"You better stay down, Chaton."

Meanwhile, Tortank was using her savate training to put up a fight. Zorrua was using parkour to avoid getting hit. Invisi-Miracle disappeared again.

"Dang it," Tortank said, "Although it does seem like she was to be visible in order to attack."

"How very observant," the Akuma said, striking Tortank with her baton.

She now also had a small turtle shell icon on her chest.

"Shell-ter! Try and stop me now."

"You know," Zorrua said, "We can't get you while you're in there, but you can't get us either."

"I can help with that," Mayura said, joining the fight.

She got the drop on the Fox and the Turtle and kicked them both away.

"Let down the barrier and quickly reform it."

The Akuma looked hesitant, but complied. Now both the Akuma and Mayura were protected.

"What are you doing here? I can handle these fools on my own. So what if they outnumber me?"

"Well, I just thought with those batons you're a regular police officer."

"Of course," she replied with a prideful look.

"The police should have a dog, don't you think?"

"You can do that?"

Mayura unfurled her fan and made an Amok. She merged it with the brooch that also held the Akuma. She then created a Sentimonster outside the force field. It was a two-headed dog the size of an elephant. One head looked like a Doberman, while the other looked like a German Shepherd.

"Orthrus, I am Mayura. You will obey the commands Invisi-Miracle and assist her in eliminating these heroes."

The two heads barked in response. The Akuma lowered the barrier.

"Chloé's gone!" the Akuma cried, holding out the brooch, "Orthrus, sniff her out and bring her back to me!"

The oversized canine sniffed the brooch, and then bounded off.

"I'll leave you to it, shall I?" Mayura said, spreading her wings to fly a safe distance away.

Ladybird charged at the Akuma, who retaliated.

"Your power is barely even worth stealing, Polka Dots."

Even though he still felt winded, Matou Noir took his staff and re-joined the fight.

"Couldn't take a hint, huh, kitty cat?" the Akuma taunted.

Meanwhile, Chloé was running from the Sentimonster. She ducked into an empty classroom. It couldn't fit through the door, but it kept trying to get her.

"There's no one else here, so I might as well. Transformez moi!"

Most of Chloé's outfit was a faded brown, including the mask and wings. Her boots and beak were a dark yellow. Her eyes were now brown, and her hair was gold.

"Liberation!"

She shot a feather at the Sentimonster. It stopped try to snap at her, and instead just stared.

"Uh...sit."

It did so.

"Who's a good dog?"

It tilted its heads.

"You are!"

It wagged its tail.

"Lay down."

It again obeyed.

She pet each head, "Stay."

She walked away from it, and sure enough, it didn't move. She then took to the sky.

"Who knows how long that'll last? Especially on a Sentimonster."

While she was in the air, she called her partner.

"Are you ready, New Bee?"

"How long did it take you to come up with that one? I'm ever ready."

"Okay, but wait for my signal."

She then saw the fight going on and dove into the fray.

Everyone was surprised, but the Akuma spoke first, "What the deuce! Who are you?!"

"I'm the last minute fill-in, Aigle Royal."

The Akuma managed to hit Zorrua.

"Mirage!"

There were now a dozen more of the Akuma.

"Don't worry," Zorrua said, "It's like a Shadow Clone. They disappear once you hit them."

Each hero attacked a different Akuma, and each one was a fake. Invisi-Miracle was skulking around the outskirts of the area.

"Hey, wait a minute!" she screamed, reappearing, "Where's Chloé? That Sentimonster was supposed to bring her back!"

"Oh, sorry," Aigle Royal replied, "Your puppy dog is lying down on the job thanks to my power."

The Akuma sprinted forward and smacked the Eagle with her baton. A father symbol now appeared on her chest.

"Now I've got your power! Let's see how you like it. Liberation!"

She shot a feather at the Eagle hero, hitting her in the chest. Aigle Royal's eyes went wide.

"HA! What are you gonna do now?"

Aigle rushed forward and punched the Akuma in the face. She then tackled her and began slamming her repeatedly into the ground.

"How do I like it? How do YOU like it? Now I'm not holding back!"

The Akuma was now forming cracks on her body. She reached over to her brooch.

"Orthrus! Get over here now and sic her!"

The Sentimonster finally snapped to attention and ran back to the courtyard. The other heroes scattered to keep the Sentimonster back.

"Give me your brooch, Sabrina!" Aigle demanded.

"Shell-ter!"

A small force field now surrounded the brooch.

"That was very smart," Aigle said, "But now I'm still free to wipe the floor with you."

She flew back and took out her bullroarer. She began spinning it, and it consequently made a loud droning noise. The Sentimonster really didn't like the noise.

Zoé was still hiding when she heard the noise, "I'm gonna say that's the signal."

Ladybird finally had a moment, "Lucky Charm! What is this, a dinosaur bone?"

"Whoa, that's big," Noir said.

"It's obviously for the Sentimonster," Tortank said.

"But it's already distracted by that...interesting noise," Zorrua said.

The Sentimonster kept shaking its heads in response to the noise from the bullroarer. Aigle slowly walked closer to the Akuma. Invisi-Miracle was so distracted, she didn't notice the Bee hero sneaking up behind her.

"Keep away from me with that thing!"

The Bee was now right behind her.

"You don't like it? Better protect yourself, genius."

The force field disappeared from the brooch.

"Shell-ter!"

It now formed around the Akuma. Unfortunately, she didn't know the Bee hero was in the force field with her.

"Venom!"

The Akuma was becoming paralyzed, "Who...are...you...?"

She grabbed the brooch, "I'm the other last minute fill-in, Dard de Miel."

Zoé's outfit had white pants, a brown shirt, and several golden stripes all along both. Her hair was now in a braid, while the Miraculous sat at its base, now sporting brown ribbons that resembled antennae. Her hair was white with a brown streak, her eyes were gold, and her mask was brown and gold. As the Akuma succumbed to the effects of Venom, the force field fell.

"Orthrus," Miel said, waving the brooch, "Look over there. A nice big bone for you."

As soon as the Sentimonster looked at Ladybird, she flew to the roof. Dard de Miel followed and gave her the brooch. The Sentimonster climbed up to the roof to follow them.

"Orthrus," Ladybird said, "See that blue bird lady? Go get her."

Orthrus growled and began jumping from roof to roof to reached Mayura. As soon as it was close enough, Mayura snapped her fingers to destroy the Sentimonster. She then immediately ran off before the heroes tried to follow. The heroes saw the Amok pop out of the brooch. Ladybird snatched it with her yo-yo.

Dard de Miel flew over to Aigle, "Are you okay? Are the Eagle's powers still affecting you?"

"Here's a hint."

She grabbed the frozen Akuma, flew up a bit, and then forcefully threw her back to the ground, causing her to break into several pieces. It seemed this was enough damage that she lost the powers she stole.

Matou Noir swallowed, "Uh, well...that was a bit, um...more forceful than usual."

"I'm sorry," Aigle said, "But it is technically her fault."

"Hey, that may have been a bit harsh," Tortank said, "But it worked."

"I suppose so. Cataclysm!"

The brooch was destroyed, and the Akuma flew out.

"This was some fight, huh, My Lady?"

"That's one way to describe it. Ready?"

"Whenever you are."

"Miraculous!"

The shattered pieces of Invisi-Miracle turned into purple energy and reformed into Sabrina. She was in a dazed state. Aigle picked her up and laid her down on a nearby bench.

"So, uh, are you two still the same people?" Ladybird asked.

"Yes," Aigle explained, "I'm normally the Bee, but due to circumstances beyond our control, I figured we'd better switch. Although I must say, my outfit is fabulous. As for you, Dard de Miel, I applaud you for not just copying my costume."

"I'd never hear the end of it if I did," Miel replied.

Sabrina let out a groan, "Where am I? Where is everyone?"

"We'll handle this," Aigle Royal said, "You guys can take off."

"Catch you later," Noir said.

He, Ladybird, Zorrua, and Tortank all ran off in different directions.

"Sabrina," Aigle said, "Are you okay?"

"My head hurts a little. Who are you?"

"I'm Aigle Royal, and this is my partner Dard de Miel."

"Nice to meet you. Where's Chloé? I need to talk to her."

"I'll find where she's hiding and send her here immediately. Just take it easy."

The duo ran off and made sure the area was clear. They ducked into the restroom and changed back.

"I think you better get some water, Zoé."

"On it. You just get over there."

The Lair

Mayura and Optigami returned.

"You barely did anything," Gabriel grumbled.

"Hey, you don't like it? Maybe you should join the fight."

He stalked off, "I'm getting back to work."

The school

Chloé ran back to Sabrina.

"Brina, are you okay?"

Sabrina pulled her into a hug and began to cry.

"I'm so sorry, Chloé."

Zoé showed up with a cup of cold water.

"Drink some water, Brina," Chloé ordered.

"That actually felt really good. Thank you."

Everyone else was gathering around.

"Is she all right?" Marinette asked.

"I'll be fine," Sabrina said, "At least in the physical sense. I tried to attack you, Chloé. Please forgive me."

"Sabrina, I'm not mad at you. I just want to know why all this happened."

"I was jealous."

"What? Why?"

"It's just that, we've been friends for a long time, but you've been spending more and more time with Zoé rather than me. I know I shouldn't be jealous about it. I mean, she is your sister. Still, I can't help but feel kind of..."

"Neglected?"

"Yes...it sounds stupid when it's said out loud."

"Sabrina, that's not stupid. I know what stupid sounds like. I'm partially responsible for all this."

"What? You're not the one who -"

"You were my first friend when we started school. Even when Adrien was gone, I still had you. We've done lots of things together. You're more than a friend. You're practically family. I'm sorry I didn't communicate with you more. Maybe if I had, this could've been avoided. Things have changed so much, Sabrina, but you'll always be special to me. However, even if I haven't known her as long as you, Zoé is my sister, and that's a unique bond."

"I know. Part of me can't help but think I can't compete. I know how that sounds. It's not a competition. I do like you, Zoé. You and I have had fun together."

Chloé gently turned Sabrina's head back to look at herself.

"Sabrina, it's about time you branched out a bit more. What's something you like that I don't?"

"Um...sports."

"Did you know there's a roller derby event going on tonight?"

"Really?"

"So I've been told. Alix is participating in it actually. I asked her if she wouldn't mind taking you. I should've told you sooner."

"Really?! What about you though?"

"I have things to do, I'm afraid. This is all for you. I called Kagami and Ondine so they could accompany you. They like sports, too, but again, I don't."

"I don't know what to say. You did all that for me?"

"Anything for my best friend."

"What about me?" Adrien asked.

"Fine...my best female friend. Don't think about saying anything, Zoé. You're my sister, and that doesn't count."

"I guess that's fair," she replied.

"Go on, Sabrina," Chloé continued, "It's not like if we don't hang out all the time we stop being friends. Get out there and go crazy."

Sabrina hugged her, "You're the best."

"Yes, I know. Now get outta here."

"Come on, Sabrina," Alix said, "We'll meet the other girls when we get there."

"Au revoir, Chloé!"

She paused to give Zoé a hug, "That goes for you, too."

She ran out the door with Alix.

"That was sweet, Chloé," Zoé said.

"Don't get used to it."

"Speaking of not spending all our time together, I'm sure you won't object to me hanging out with Marinette and Alya today. That's what we were talking about before all this happened."

"I encourage it. I'm going to go home and take a nap."

"Okay then. See you later."

Before she could walk off, Chloé cleared her throat. Zoé seemed to read her mind. They switched Miraculous with each other. They then waved goodbye to each other.

"Wait, a roller derby?" Kim said, "I've got to see that. How about you, Max?"

"It would certainly be an interesting watch."

They ran to the door, with Kim calling, "Hey, Alix! Wait for us!"

"You don't want to do anything, do you, Adrien?" Chloé asked.

"I already made plans with Nino," he replied.

"Good, because I don't need you bothering me right now."

"You're always such a ray of sunshine, Chlo."

"Yes, it's a curse."

"Text you later."

Chloé was finally left alone in the schoolyard. She was about to leave, but she decided to head for the school roof. Making sure no one was around, she transformed and flew to get up there quicker. Changing back, she just stood there admiring the landscape. She then noticed there was a chair just sitting there, so she pulled it up and rested her feet on the ledge. She was feeling drowsy, so she put on her sunglasses, and then started to doze off. She didn't hear the door to the roof open, but what did wake her up was someone plucking on a stringed instrument. The tune was from a very familiar song. She found herself softly singing along.

"Je ne sais, ne sais, ne sais pas pourquoi. C'est comme ça, la Seine et moi."

"I must be doing something right if it got you sing along."

"It's a French song. I'm pretty sure anyone here would sing along. I should've known. It's the would-be rock star himself."

"And you're the future fashionista."

"So what are you doing up here?"

"I could ask you the same question."

"I was just relaxing by myself. What about you?"

"I like to come up here and play."

"Don't you live on a houseboat?"

"It's more quiet here."

She pointed at his violin, "Can you really play that thing?"

"I like to think so."

"Well, as long as you play something slow, I don't care if you stay. Honestly, I'm too tired."

"As you wish."

Chloé leaned back in the chair and closed her eyes. Luka began to play again. It was another French song that Chloé knew very well. She found herself once again quietly singing along.

"Une vie à me cacher et puis libre enfin, le festin est sur mon chemin."

Luka continued to play several other slow pieces. After about an hour or so...

"They'll only let us hang around here after school hours for so long. I'd better wake her up so we can leave."

He placed his violin in its case first, and then gently shook Chloé.

"Hey, Chloé. I hate to wake you, but we have to get going."

Chloé didn't respond.

"Boy, this is some nap. Well, I guess I should get you back to the hotel. At least that way you can have a more comfortable place to sleep."

He reached into her back pocket to get her phone. She searched through her contacts.

"Should I call her dad? No wait, I remember now. I'm sure she's mention this Armand guy is their butler."

He made the call.

"Oui, Mademoiselle?"

"Uh, hi. This is her friend Luka, actually. We're still at the school, but she's out of it. If you could come pick her up, that'd be great."

"I shall be there as soon as possible. Merci, young man."

He hung up, but wasn't sure what to do now.

"Well, I guess I'd better get her off the roof, at least."

He took his violin case and used it to keep the door from closing. He then scooped Chloé into his arms. She seemed to stir.

"Chloé? It's Luka. I'm taking you home."

She wrapped her arms around his neck, but said nothing. He went through the door, making sure to grab his violin case. He carefully made his way down the stairs. He finally reached the door and made his way across the school to the street. By the time he reached it, the limo had already pulled up.

"It seems Mlle. Chloé didn't get enough sleep."

"I guess so. I'll put her inside."

He got in the limo and tried to pry her arms off. She instead held tighter.

"I'm starting to wonder if you're actually asleep. M. Armand, she's really got a grip on me. I'd hate to disturb her too much. I hope it's not a bother if I tag along."

"If she doesn't mind, then I suppose I shouldn't either," he replied with a smile.

On the way, she nuzzled into him a couple of times, but still not a word.

"Here we are, M. Couffaine. Have you ever been here before?"

"Probably just the lobby. I have a job as a delivery boy."

"Well, I'll lead the way. May I take your violin?"

"Sure, thank you."

They made their way through the lobby, into the elevator, and then arrived at Chloé's room.

"I knew it'd be big, but this is...really big."

Armand chuckled, "That's exactly the way Zoé reacted. You'd better set her down on the bed."

As soon as she was on the bed, she seemed to relax a bit. Luka was able to remove her arms. He also took her shoes off.

"Always with the heels. See you around, Chloé."

Before he could leave though, Armand said, "Young man, perhaps you had better stay."

"Really? You don't think that'd be weird?"

"Waking up in her room might be a bit jarring for her. A friendly face on hand to explain things might be ideal. Just make yourself comfortable. Would you care for something to eat?"

"I'd appreciate that. I'm sure she would, too."

"I'll wait a few minutes."

Luka was left alone with Chloé. He got out his violin, sat on a chair on the balcony, and then began to softly play. After a few minutes, he heard a noise.

"Oh, mercy. What a nap. I must've really been out of it. What the...? How did I get here?"

"That'd be my doing," he said, walking inside.

"You didn't carry me all the way here, did you?"

"I'm not that strong...or that crazy. I called that Armand fellow."

"Wait, you got a ride here, but did you carry me in your arms the whole time?"

"I did, actually."

"Well...um...I didn't talk in my sleep, did I?"

"No, why? Do you usually?"

"How would I know? I'm asleep."

There was a knock at the door.

"Come in."

"I hope your nap was invigorating, Chloé," Armand said, "I took the liberty of ordering you sushi."

"You're the best," she looked at Luka, "You like sushi?"

"I don't eat it very often, but I wouldn't say no."

"Well, help yourself. Hey, wait a second. Don't you usually ride your bike everywhere?"

"Yeah, but I had to leave it at school. It's fine. It'll still be there tomorrow."

Armand left to give them privacy. Chloé began to devour the food.

"Somebody's hungry."

"Don't you judge me, rock man. It's been a crazy day."

"Fighting your best friend can't be easy."

"Yeah, well, I'm glad she's having fun, even if it's not with me."

"You really are a good friend."

"I guess I can say the same thing about you. You didn't have to go through all that for me."

"I couldn't leave you there."

"Yeah, but you didn't have to drop everything and come here."

"You seemed pretty insistent that I not leave from how tightly you held on to me."

She snorted, "An involuntary instinct."

"You know, I've met your dad, and you've met my mom. My dad said he's coming to visit soon. I'd like for you to meet him as well."

"I'll try to make time for it. So...can I give you a ride back?"

"You don't have to do that."

"It'll be dark out soon. We're giving you a ride. Just say thank you and don't argue."

He chuckled, "How can I argue with that?"

Later, after they picked up his bike at the school, Luka was dropped off at his houseboat.

"Thanks for the lift, Mlle."

"Yeah, sure. Just don't tell everyone what happened."

"It's strictly between us."

With that, the limo drove away. Luka took out his violin and stood on the deck for a few seconds. He then began to play. He was so focused on playing, he didn't notice Juleka arrive.

"Hey, Luka. I was with most everyone else at that roller derby game. Alix is a beast. Do anything fun while I was gone?"

"Not much. Just hung out here."

Back at the hotel, Chloé was flipping through TV channels while humming. She eventually got a text from Sabrina.

Brina: Had so much fun! Thank you again, Chlo! You're the best!

Chlo: What can I say? Except, you're welcome

Now Zoé came into the room.

"Hey, sis! We had did our homework and had dinner. Did you do anything exciting?"

"I took a nap. You wouldn't believe how exciting that can get."

"I know you're being sarcastic, but did you have a dream or something?"

"That's a good way to describe it."

Luka was busy working all that weekend. It wasn't until Monday that he got a surprise. As he and Juleka were about to leave, a familiar limo pulled up.

"Get in," Chloé ordered, "And don't give me any of that stuff like, oh no, you don't have to do that."

Luka shook his head, "I can see that arguing with you is futile."

"You'd do well to remember that. To the school!"