Notes: I had to really think about this one
Disclaimer: I don't own the Miraculous franchise
Miraculous Universe
Ch. 25: When Magic Meets Technology
Sunday afternoon, Marinette drove over to the Agreste mansion. Adrien accompanied her there, just to help keep her calm.
"Don't let him see that you're nervous, Princess."
"Nervous? I'm just scared."
"All you'll be doing is working out a schedule with Nathalie, I'm sure. Come on."
He knocked on the door to the atelier.
"Père, may I interrupt?"
"Make it quick."
"Marinette Dupain-Cheng is here."
"Please come in."
"He said please," Adrien whispered, "That's a good start."
"Shouldn't you be working, Adrien?"
"I'm on my lunch break, Père. I thought I'd accompany Marinette here."
"I see. Well, this conversation doesn't concern you, so please exit while we have our…negotiations."
Marinette could see Adrien wanted to object, but he held himself back.
"Of course, Père."
"Please close the door."
Adrien did so as he left. He of course was standing right next to the door in an attempt to listen.
"Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, I have neglected my duties as your mentor and inspiration."
"I think giving yourself such labels is pushing it," Marinette thought.
"It's been two years since the fashion show. However, I understand you've kept busy."
"Well, I always have commissions."
"I don't mean from commoners. I mean from important people. Nathalie informed me of your work for Jagged Stone."
"Oh, yes, those. I only didn't mention them because they weren't fashion related, per se."
"I was also informed of your brilliant reaction to Audrey's offer. It's no less than she deserves."
"But she gave you your start."
"That doesn't change the fact that she's a horrible person. Now then, when can you start?"
"Oh, well, right away if necessary."
"Say perhaps right this minute?"
"Really? Yes, M. Agreste, I can start now."
"Excellent. Your first task is to go get us some coffee. Nathalie will give you the details."
Nathalie escorted Marinette into the foyer.
"I'm sorry your internship has to begin with a mundane task like buying coffee, but I can assure you, he'll give you something worthwhile if you stick to it."
"I was expecting it."
"Also, you may have to be formal with M. Agreste, but just plain Nathalie will do between us. Here's a list of the drinks, and here's some cash. Try to be quick, but no need to hurry."
Nathalie went back into the atelier. Adrien popped out from behind a pillar.
"I wish I could join you, but I've got to get back."
"That's okay. I'll have to get used to doing this on my own. I'll see you later."
Adrien and Placide went back to the bakery, while Marinette headed for the designated coffee establishment. Once she got back, before she could enter the atelier, she could hear arguing.
"Just because you're staying here, doesn't mean you can just come in here wherever you feel like it. If I recall correctly, I told you never to come in here while I'm working."
"You're always working, Gabriel."
"Exactly, Amelie, so never come in here."
"You're such a grouch. Would you treat Adrien this way?"
"Adrien knows better than to disturb me while I'm working."
"I love how much they despise each other," said a vaguely familiar voice.
Marinette spun around to see a face that she almost recognized, but at the same time it was very different.
"I'm sure Adrien's mentioned me before. I'm his cousin Félix Graham de Vanily, also known as Félix Fathom, but my mother's family name is far more important."
"I think I remember him mentioning you once."
"Well as you can see, I'm far more handsome than he is."
"That's a matter of opinion," Marinette thought, "They look similar, but he has built-in smugness."
"And I've told you before," Gabriel continued, "Keep your brat of a son out of my work area."
"Don't talk about him like that," Amelie snapped back.
"This is my house, and I'll do as I like. We have nothing to discuss right now, so I'm telling you again to get out!"
Marinette quickly moved back towards the front door as Amelie stormed out. Before she went up the stairs, she spared a glance at Marinette, but said nothing. She instead looked at Félix and cupped his chin.
"Félix, my angel, were you talking to the hired help? I can't imagine she had anything interesting to say."
"I was simply telling the errand girl here about the Graham de Vanily family."
"Good boy! Everyone should know about our noble ancestry. I'm sure Gabriel has some menial tasks to send her on though. So let's be off and do something worthwhile."
The mother and son duo went out the door.
"Apparently Adrien's the only member of his family with any ounce of humility," Marinette thought.
She headed for the atelier doors and knocked.
"Make sure it's not her again, Nathalie."
"It's Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, sir."
"Ah, excellent."
"Your coffee, M. Agreste."
"It's perfect. One must always strive for perfection. That will be all for today, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng. It's only your first day, after all. You can be here at the same time tomorrow. Rest assured, you'll have more work ahead of you in the coming days."
"Thank you, M. Agreste."
Marinette went back home and collapsed on her bed.
*Knock knock knock*
"May I come in, Princess?"
"Sure."
He sat down on the edge of her bed.
"Has it been very busy?" she asked.
"It was earlier. Never mind that, though. I can't believe you're back already."
"Apparently your father just needed someone to grab him coffee."
"That figures."
"Although he did say he'd have more for me to do later."
"Well, that's good."
"I got to meet your cousin."
"He actually deigned to have a chat with you?"
"It wasn't really a chat. It was more like just listening to him brag about his ancestry, but yeah. It's funny how you look and sound similar, but couldn't be more different. It's your eyes mostly. Félix actually reminds me of your father."
"Don't tell him that. He hates my father. Anyway, I'll let you get some rest. I'm sure things will pick up concerning the internship."
"Thank you, My Prince."
The next day, Marinette had a quick lunch and headed for the Agreste mansion.
"Ah, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, I'm glad you're here."
"Happy to be here, M. Agreste."
"Yes, that coffee won't bring itself here."
"Right away, Sir."
When she got back…
"Perfect once again. Now follow me, please."
He led her to a file room.
"If you could organize these files by date, please. You may go once you've finished."
"Thank you, Sir."
She began to dig through the piles of papers, glancing at each one to find the dates. It was nothing too surprising, save for one file.
"Is this an order for butterfly cocoons? What could he possibly need those for? Maybe some event."
She placed it in the cabinet.
"Of course the obvious conclusion to draw," she thought, "Would be that he used them during his Papillon stints. Strange how that's the only one I've found so far. From what I can recall, butterflies don't exactly live very long. He probably had to go out and catch a few now and then. Maybe he's found a way to make an Akuma without using real butterflies. I'm pretty sure that was in the Grimoire. Now that I think about it, I don't remember seeing a purified Akuma after the incident with Oblivio."
It took a few hours, but Marinette finished her task.
"Excuse me, M. Agreste, but I should be finished."
"Hmm? Oh yes, of course. Nathalie will double check your progress."
Nathalie led Marinette back to the file room. She barely looked everything over.
"I trust you, Marinette. I'll give it a more thorough look later. Go home and get some rest."
"Thank you so much."
This time when Marinette got home, Alya was waiting for her.
"I hope I'm not bothering you, Nette."
"I'll be fine. I just need to lay down. Did you see Adrien?"
"Yeah, and he's hard at work. He sure does love working here. Same goes for Kagami. By the way, I forgot to ask about your trip."
"Oh, right. Here's my phone. Feel free to look at all the pictures."
Alya scrolled through the photo album, and then stopped on a few particular pictures.
"Were these taken at a park?"
"Yeah, we were doing a bit of sight-seeing. It was nice to see butterflies that weren't being used for evil. I forget what kind they were. I'm sure I heard someone say."
"You forget who you're talking to, girl. Unless I'm mistaken, this is a species of butterfly called a grayling."
"Yeah, that's what it was."
Alya smacked herself on the forehead.
"What's the matter?"
"How could I be so careless? One second while I call Adrien."
Marinette was confused, but closed her eyes and relaxed on her bed.
"Sorry to bother you, girl," Alya said, "You looked like you were dozing off."
Alya was joined by Adrien and Kagami.
"What did my father have you do this time?"
"I organized his file room."
"Well, I guess it's something. At least it's not just fetching coffee."
"Yeah, now was there something on your mind, Als?"
"Do you know what the word agreste means?"
"Doesn't it mean something like rural or rustic?" Adrien answered, "The irony isn't lost on me."
"It's true that's one definition," Alya said, "But I just remembered another. This butterfly you took a picture of, the grayling, has a different name in French."
"Besides just calling it a papillon?" Marinette asked.
"The grayling specifically is known in French as…agreste."
"That's certainly interesting," Adrien said, "But what are you getting at?"
"It's obvious what she's trying to say," Kagami said, "Maybe the name is a coincidence, but you were already leaning towards the idea that Gabriel Agreste is Le Papillon. I read your blog."
"That's exactly what I'm saying."
"I'm glad you came to that conclusion," Marinette said, "But we already had that idea in the back of our heads."
"You did?"
"For a while now actually," Adrien said, "Since the beginning in fact."
"How did you figure it out?"
"Master Fu was asked to translate this grimoire for my father. It's an old book all about the Miraculous. He claimed it was for sentimental reasons, but it's too much of a coincidence."
"So you've been sharing a house with our archnemesis this whole time?" Alya said, "And now Marinette is working there as well."
"Talk about living dangerously," Kagami said.
"But like any good reporter, we need concrete evidence."
"Until then," Marinette said, "All we can do is put up with the jerk. Sorry, Adrien."
"Don't be. He is a jerk. Even if he wasn't a supervillain, he'd still be a jerk."
"Well, we'd better let you take a nap," Alya said, "Talk to you later, Nette."
The next day at the Agreste mansion…
"Right on time, as usual, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng. Now fetch us our coffee."
"Right away, Sir."
As soon as Marinette left…
"Is this really all you can think of for her to do, Gabriel?" Nathalie asked, "Fetch you coffee?"
"I have another task for her once she returns."
In about 15 minutes or so, Marinette returned.
"Perfect once again. Wouldn't you agree, Nathalie?"
"Delicious, sir."
"And now, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, I have another important task for you," he handed her a slip of paper, "I have some dry cleaning that needs picking up."
"Right away, M. Agreste."
She rushed back out the door.
"Oh, wow, what variety, Gabriel," Nathalie snarked.
"Well, you didn't want to pick it up."
She rolled her eyes and continued looking at her tablet.
"Very well, I'll give her a proper assignment."
It took about 20 minutes, but Marinette returned.
"Your dry cleaning, M. Agreste."
"Thank you, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng. I realize I haven't been very fair to you. Therefore, I'm giving you an assignment. You've made an impressive hat, and I've even seen your scarf. Now make another article of clothing to demonstrate your skill once again. Whatever you prefer. Take as much time as you need. You should enjoy such a luxury while you can."
"I'll do my best M. Agreste."
"Good. You can start right now. Go home and brainstorm, and then buy whatever supplies you'll need."
"Right away, Sir. Thank you, M. Agreste."
She ran out to begin her homework.
"There, are you happy now? She's actually doing something pertaining to haute couture at last."
"Uh huh," Nathalie replied, not looking up from her tablet.
Marinette hurried home to begin thinking.
*Knock knock*
"Are you busy, Princess?"
"Sort of, Adrien, but come on up."
As he entered, he looked around. There weren't any supplies strewn about the room. Marinette was at her desk, pencil and paper in hand.
"You must be in the process of coming up with an idea."
"Your father finally asked me to make something. I just need to think of what it should be. He mentioned my scarf. Did he finally notice you wearing it?"
"He actually did, yes. Any idea what you'll do next?"
"I want it to be something meaningful. Wait a minute! Kagami's birthday is next month, right?"
"That's right."
"Then I'll make something for her. If anyone deserves a handmade gift, it's her."
"I'm glad you got that knocked out quickly."
She began sketching her idea.
"I'd better just keep quiet and sit over here."
He laid back on the chaise lounge. He was starting to doze off.
"Adrien?"
"Huh? What? How long was I out?"
"It's only been maybe 15 minutes. I should've let you rest, but I wanted to let you know I was going out. I'll be back soon, My Prince. I'm off to buy some supplies."
She gave him a kiss on the cheek and ran off. She was soon at her favorite store for art supplies.
"Marinette, it's been a while," Socqueline said.
"Yeah, sorry about that. I've been a little busy. I'm actually here on a special assignment."
"How's that?"
"I got an internship from Gabriel Agreste."
"No kidding? For how long?"
"Only a few days. He's mostly been using me to bring coffee and take care of tasks he and his assistant don't feel like doing. I guess that is what an intern is for, but I'm glad he finally gave me a proper task. He wants me to make something."
"I'm sure you were brainstorming at home before you got here."
"Yeah, and now I know what I need. Do you mind?"
"You're always one of our best customers, Marinette. By all means, go right ahead."
Marinette went through every aisle while talking softly to herself.
"Okay, I think that's everything. Socqueline, before I go, I want to say sorry."
"Sorry for what?"
"You're one of my oldest friends, but we haven't hung out in a while. Maybe it's because we've both been busy, but I should try harder."
"I don't mind, Marinette. I have been working at this shop since I was old enough, so I keep rather busy. That's what happens when your parents own the place, I guess. Still, I'm all for finding time to hang out."
"This time I'll remember."
The two shared a hug, and then Marinette paid for her purchases.
"I would say good luck," Socqueline said, "But I already know you'll do great."
"Thanks, I'll definitely try. Talk to you soon."
Marinette got home as quickly as possible and started working.
*Knock knock*
"Come in."
Adrien peeked into her room.
"Don't let me, as they say, throw off your groove, Princess. I just wanted to see if you were hard at work."
"Kagami's not here, is she?" she asked quietly, "This is a present for her, after all."
"She asked Placide to take her to grab something to eat, so don't worry."
"I have to make sure she doesn't suspect anything. Now I'm glad your father gave me as much time as I needed."
"What'll you do if she asks to come into your room?"
"I'll just switch to a different project."
"Do you have another project?"
"I do, actually. It's something special I've been working on for myself."
"Making clothes for yourself? Now there's a change."
"Being in the talent show this year made me want to do it again next year. So, I've already thought about what I want to do. No, I can't tell you."
"I figured, so I wasn't going to ask. What are you making for Kagami?"
"It's a multi-purpose clothing piece. She can use it as a sash, or a belt, or a wrap, or whatever she prefers."
"That sounds cool. Anyway, I'll let you get back to it then."
For the next few weeks, Marinette went to the Agreste mansion to do a bit of intern work, and then afterwards would go back home and work on her projects. Adrien and Kagami were still working at the bakery for the summer, so Marinette had to make sure Kagami was busy so she wouldn't see her present. One day, while Marinette was out buying Gabriel and Nathalie some lunch, she ran into Alya.
"Out on another dangerous mission for Gabriel Agreste?"
"Naturally, Als. What are you doing here?"
"I'm here to get lunch for Nadja Chamack," she said with a smile.
Marinette's eyes went wide, "You're interning for her?"
"I totally am! SHe messaged me out of the blue. She said that since I'm such tough competition for her, she should just try to recruit me."
"There's my meal. I've gotta go, Als. Talk to you later."
Most of the time, all Marinette did was buy coffee, bring Gabriel and Nathalie meals, answer the phone and take messages, and organize files. One day, though, Gabriel called her into his atelier.
"Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, today I'm allowing you to witness my work."
Marinette finally managed to get a good look around the atelier. There were mannequins lining the farthest wall. A large picture of Emelie Agreste was on the wall behind Gabriel. On his desk was, of all things, the Grimoire. Assorted small pictures of Adrien were on the wall opposite to the mannequins.
"These are clearly pictures from his modeling sessions," she thought, "I don't see a single casual picture."
"Isn't he magnificent?"
Marinette was slightly startled by Gabriel appearing behind her.
"Uh, Sir?"
"Adrien is the perfect model. He reminds me of his mother in that way."
"Except Emilie modeled because she wanted to, while you make Adrien do it."
"Now, I want you to see this. However, you must not tell anyone else, although they likely wouldn't believe you. This is where I get much of my inspiration."
He opened the Grimoire up to a random page.
"Oh boy, better put on a good show," she thought, "Oh my goodness, M. Agreste! This looks like an old book."
"It's very old indeed. Feel free to look through it. I know you can appreciate it. Some of the designs will look familiar, I'm sure."
Marinette carefully flipped through the pages.
"You've made these jewels into accessories, and some of these outfits are in different parts of your work."
"Very good. Have you decided on what to do for your project?"
"I have, Sir. I'm working on it as we speak. Actually, I'm working on two at once."
"Ah, the curse of genius. Always so many ideas."
"Yes, Sir, but I'm sure my project for you will be done in the next few weeks."
"Excellent news, but until then, there are other tasks to perform."
The routine continued until almost the end of July.
"At last, it's finished. Now to show it to M. Agreste and give it to Kagami. I just have to make sure she's there with me."
The next day…
"Say, Kagami, when you go on break, would you mind coming with me to the Agreste mansion?"
"What do you need me for?"
"I need someone to briefly model the clothing article I made for Gabriel. I'll make it quick."
"Well, I would like to ride on the back of your motorcycle."
"I have a spare helmet."
The duo soon arrived at the Agreste mansion.
"That was certainly more…I suppose the correct word would be extreme. Much more than when I rode on the back of your scooter."
"I hope it wasn't too much for you."
"Are you kidding? I can't wait to do that again."
When they got to the gate…
"Kagami Tsurugi? What are you doing here?" Nathalie asked, "Your mother isn't here, is she?"
"No, she's at home. Marinette asked me to accompany her."
"Very well."
They all stepped into the atelier.
"What a pleasant surprise, young Tsurugi," Gabriel said, "What brings you here?"
"I asked her to come with me, M. Agreste," Marinette replied.
"Indeed? To what purpose?"
"I finished my project, and I wanted her to model it for me…mostly because it's her birthday present."
"You made me a present?" Kagami asked.
"Here you are: a multi-purpose piece of clothing. You can use it any way you like."
"If I may?" Gabriel said, holding out his hand.
Marinette's smile vanished as she handed him the cloth. It was an azure blue with a few bars of gold at each end.
He inspected it, "Well made…fine material…interesting pattern…Mlle. Tsurugi, if you would please."
Kagami first tied it around her waist and walked around. When Gabriel said nothing, she then wore it like a wrap, and then a scarf, and then around her head like a bandana.
"That will do," Gabriel spoke up, "I've seen enough."
Kagami handed the cloth back to Gabriel.
"A rather simple piece, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, but as demonstrated, highly versatile. A passable job, I'd say."
"Thank you, Sir."
He handed the cloth back to Kagami.
"As it's the weekend, you may head home for the day. We'll continue your training on Monday."
"Thank you again, M. Agreste."
As they walked out, Kagami looked annoyed.
"Passable? Marinette, this is a wonderful gift. Thank you so much."
"You're welcome. Well, we'd better get back to the bakery, but first, let's grab a bite to eat."
"You read my mind."
About a week later, when Marinette arrived at the mansion…
"That's the Tsurugi self-driving car."
Tomoe stepped out from the back seat. Something also hopped out of the front seat. It let out a beeping noise.
"Who's there?"
"It's Marinette Dupain-Cheng, Mme. Tsurugi."
"Oh yes, the intern. Well hurry up and tell them to open the gate."
"Nathalie, it's me, and Mme. Tsurugi is here as well."
Nathalie said nothing as she opened the gate.
"Kagami told me about the gift you made for her. I felt the cloth. You chose a fine material."
"Thank you very much, Mme. Tsurugi."
Nathalie opened the door.
"Marinette, I'll just tell you before Gabriel can. Please pick up our order from this restaurant," she said, showing Marinette her phone, "We already called ahead."
"Right away, Nathalie."
Marinette turned around and headed out. Tomoe was already heading for the atelier. Nathalie hurried after her.
"Nathalie," Gabriel called out, "What is that sound?"
"Sir, Tsurugi-san is here for an unexpected visit."
Gabriel looked at where the robotic sound was coming from. Tomoe entered the room with a robot surveillance dog.
"So nice of you to drop in, Tsurugi-san. Why do you have that thing with you?"
"For convenience sake. This is my own personalized seeing-eye dog. This is why I came to see you. Perhaps we'd better talk in your private room."
"Of course. Nathalie, wait here for the intern to return. Once she brings us our food, watch her and keep her busy. This meeting could lead to a new plan."
"As you say, sir."
"Since you'll be doing that, I'll take the Peacock for now."
She was skeptical, "Are you sure?"
"I know what I'm doing," he answered, a stern look on his face.
She sighed, "If you say so, Gabriel."
She removed the brooch and handed it to him. He quickly pinned it to his shirt, right below the Butterfly Miraculous, and hid them both behind his tie.
"Now if you'll excuse me."
He headed for the elevator to his lair, with Tomoe close behind him. Once down, he was too busy thinking to bother with Tomoe.
"Lost in your own thoughts again, Gabriel? This is why I brought my dog. Fetch me a chair."
The robot dog looked around for the nearest chair, and then pushed it over to Tomoe. As it beeped in confirmation, she sat down.
"That's what your problem is, Gabriel."
"What exactly, Tomoe?"
"You have to over rely on people. People are fallible. Why do you think I made a self-driving car and a robot dog? Machines are perfect."
"Yes, well, apart from you and your company, there aren't very many people around with the talent and the intelligence to make a robot," he then got an idea, "On the other hand, a Sentimonster is similar to a robot. It's magic rather than technology, but it follows the same principle. It's programmed to obey your commands."
"Yes, but as you just said, it's only similar to a robot, not a true robot."
Meanwhile, while Marinette was waiting for the food order to be ready…
"I didn't expect to see you here, Marinette," came a voice.
"Oh, bonjour, Max. What are you doing here?"
"I stopped to get something to eat before I head to the Jardins du Trocadéro. I've been so busy with Markov, but Kim and Alix thankfully made me leave my house. Of course I brought my laptop and Markov with me. I can only tolerate their competitiveness for so long before I get bored, and Nathaniel is always busy with his drawings."
"Whoa, wait a minute. Who or what is Markov?"
Max removed his backpack and pulled out a small, round, blue, white, and gray device. On one end was a propeller, and on the other end was a single small arm ending in a claw. He pressed a few buttons and it activated. In the middle of the device was a small screen. Beneath the screen was a USB port. The screen lit up, and a pair of black dots, clearly intended to be eyes, appeared. The propeller started up, and the machine was now hovering in the air.
"Greetings! I am Markov. You are Marinette Dupain-Cheng."
"Did you tell it that?"
"I hope you don't mind," Max replied, "I put a bit of information from all my friends into Markov. Plus he has access to the internet."
"What exactly did you make him for?"
"Mostly to see if I could, but he should be able to help with any kind of research."
"You're even smarter than we all thought, Max. I doubt anyone else in our friend group could build a robot."
"Oh, well, thank you, Marinette. Anyway, I don't want to hold you up. I'm sure you're busy."
"I am, actually. I'm here to pick up a meal for Gabriel Agreste and his assistant."
"Are you their intern now?"
"Oh, that's right. I haven't told everyone yet. That reminds me, you know who's at the mansion right now? Tomoe Tsurugi. She showed up today with her own seeing-eye robot dog. I'll bet if she knew about your robot, she'd make you her intern or something like that."
"Huh…I hadn't thought that far ahead. You'd talk to her for me? We don't really hang out that often."
"We're still friends though, aren't we?"
"Of course."
"Then we should help each other out. I'll try to talk with Mme. Tsurugi and let you know how it goes. Let me take a picture of Markov."
"Oh, of course. I can't thank you enough, Marinette. I'd better get over to the park. The others are expecting me."
"Yeah, I doubt he'd notice, but I'd better get back to the mansion with M. Agreste's food. Talk to you soon."
The Agreste Mansion
"Butterfly, Peacock, unify!"
Gabriel's suit was now more of an indigo shade. His collar had a peacock feather pattern. His hat now had a peacock feather attached to it. In his left hand was the cane, and in his right was the fan. The inside of his cape was now a vague feather design. His cape still looked like butterfly wings when unfurled, but the "hindwings" now had a pair of protruding tails that were shaped like feathers, which also made them resemble swallowtail wings. He tipped back his hat to show that the silver butterfly-shaped mask now had pointy, dark blue sunglasses like a visor.
"Le Papillon won't do anymore. I need a new name. One far more intimidating. From now on, I am…Papillombre!"
"Don't you look fancy?" Tomoe said.
Gabriel sneered at her, "You've always had such a wonderful sense of humor."
Nathalie walked into the lair.
"What are you doing down here?"
"She's still not back yet," Nathalie replied, "Besides, she won't snoop around if she wants to keep this position. So, you did unify the Miraculous."
"Of course! How do I look?"
"You don't wanna know what I think," Nathalie replied.
He was now getting very annoyed.
"Gabriel, we let ourselves in," Amelie called out, "What in the world are you wearing?"
"He's combined the Butterfly and the Peacock," Nathalie explained.
"The irony of a clothing designer that has such poor taste," Félix said, "What's the amazing name you've given yourself now?"
"I am Papillombre!"
Félix rolled his eyes, "Whatever."
The newly christened Papillombre growled, "Do you all have to convene here? I'm trying to think of a plan."
"You're coming up with a plan?" Amelie asked, "Where did you get the idea?"
"I told him machines are superior," Tomoe said, "And instead his mind goes to Sentimonsters."
"Don't do anything stupid, Gabriel. Would you like some tea, Tomoe?"
"That would be ideal."
"Let's go back upstairs. Gabriel, put your costume away."
Amelie, Félix, Tomoe, and her robot dog all left the lair.
"Never mind those fools," Papillombre said, "There must be a way to make my own robot. Something superior to a Sentimonster. I just need some inspiration."
"Mlle. Dupain-Cheng is probably back by now," Nathalie said.
He de-transformed, "Very well. I need time to think. Lunch will do me good."
As the pair walked back through the atelier, they caught some of the conversation
"Tomoe, your robot dog is incredible. I see you're still sticking with the shinai though."
"I may dress as one does in current-day, but I need at least one thing that reminds me and everyone else of my ancestry. You of all people should understand that, Amelie."
Gabriel was rolling his eyes as Nathalie opened the gate and walked to the front door. He followed her and waited for Marinette to enter. As they waited, Félix walked past them carrying a tray with the tea.
"I wish I could just trip him," Gabriel whispered to Nathalie.
Félix probably didn't hear him, but didn't pass up the opportunity to give Gabriel a dirty look. Nathalie then opened the front door.
"Welcome back, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng."
"Sorry for the delay. Here's your food."
Gabriel was already reaching into the bag and eating a sandwich.
"Is Mme. Tsurugi still here, M. Agreste?"
"Yes, why?"
"I know her company makes advanced electronic equipment. I saw that robot dog after all. My friend, Max Kanté, is an aspiring inventor. He's always been the smartest in our class. I ran into him at the café where I got your food. He made his own little robot. Either he'll make for some competition in the future, or perhaps she'd think about hiring him on."
She showed them the picture of Markov on her phone.
"He calls it Markov. I mean, as you can see, it's basically just a flying head, but it's a start, and I certainly couldn't make my own robot. He's at the Jardins du Trocadéro doing some tune-ups or something."
Gabriel suddenly had a very devious smile on his face, but he quickly composed himself.
"Very interesting, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng. I'll be sure to inform Mme. Tsurugi of this development. Please send Nathalie a copy of that picture. Meanwhile, as Tomoe is currently having tea, I have an idea. Perhaps it would put her in the right mood if you gave her some of your family's delicious baked goods to go with the tea."
"Oh, of course, Sir. I can do that. Anything in particular?"
"Just nothing too sweet. She's not very fond of sugar."
"I can take care of that right away, Sir."
"Very good, Mlle. Get to it then. That is your assignment."
Nathalie opened the door for her and she took off.
"What are you really up to, Gabriel?" Nathalie asked.
"Back to the lair, Nathalie."
He sped past the other as they enjoyed their tea.
"Going back to your lair to brood, Gabriel?" Amelie asked.
He said nothing as he and Nathalie took the elevator. Once in the lair, he quickly transformed.
"Tomoe says that machines are perfect, obedient, and infallible, so what if I was to akumatize a machine?"
"How are you going to do that?" Nathalie asked, "Machines don't have emotions. That's what makes them machines."
"Did you get the picture of that robot?"
She held up her tablet to show him the picture.
"A robot is a special kind of machine. It can think, to an extent. If I can akumatize that robot, I'll have the perfect servant."
"Again, a robot has no emotions."
"Not yet it doesn't, but I've thought of that."
He unfurled the fan, created an Amok, and then placed the Amok inside his cane. He then formed a small Sentimonster shaped like a large thumb drive. It was black with red lines, with a large red eye in the center of the creature. He held his creation in his hand.
"You shall be called…Hacker. I am Papillombre, and you shall obey me."
It blinked its eye in response.
"Here is your first task. Head for the park by the Seine and search until you find this robot."
He held up the tablet for Hacker to memorize the target. He then showed the creature a map of the area. Its eye glowed as it sprouted six spidery legs and leapt onto the wall. It then crawled up towards the skylight and squeezed through the cracks. Optigami followed after its fellow Sentimonster.
"No, a robot can't be akumatized because it has no emotions," Papillombre said, "However, if I could give a robot emotions, it's now a target."
"Give emotions to a robot?" Nathalie questioned, "Doesn't that take away one of the reasons robots are so efficient? Because they're pure logic?"
"Just because someone has emotions doesn't mean they lose their logic."
He watched the tablet as his two Sentimonsters searched through the park for the robot. Hacker was hopping from tree to tree like a grasshopper. At last, the target was found. Hacker skittered closer and closer.
"They found the robot. Fly away, my little Akuma. It's time to enact my grand plan."
The park
Max was sitting on a bench, typing away on his laptop. Kim and Alix were racing each other yet again. To give Max some room, Nathaniel and Ondine were sitting on another bench. Nate was, of course, sketching his surroundings, while Ondine was reading a book.
"Hey, Ondine!" Kim called, "Did you see that last race? I totally won that time."
"You only think you won," Alix said, "You kept looking over at Ondine so much, you didn't even notice when I passed you up."
"Oh…well then, best two out of three…or something like that."
She sighed, "Okay, fine. Nate, I hope you draw a good picture of me when I'm standing in the winner's circle."
Nate smiled and gave a thumbs up. As soon as it got close enough, Hacker forcefully plugged itself into Markov. The robot began to short circuit.
"Markov, what happened?" Max cried, "What's this weird-looking memory stick?"
He grabbed onto Hacker and received a zap of electricity for his trouble.
"Ouch!"
Kim, Alix, Nathaniel, and Ondine rushed over.
"What's going on, buddy?" Kim asked.
"That weird-looking USB seems to be infecting Markov with a virus."
"Where did it come from?" Alix asked, "A memory stick can't walk on its own."
"It can if it's a Sentimonster," Nate spoke up.
"How do you know it's a Sentimonster?" Max asked.
"Well it's clearly not an Akuma."
"That's right," Alix said, "An Akuma uses your emotions to brainwash you. A robot doesn't have emotions."
"Regardless, this thing is clearly infecting Markov with a virus."
Marvov's screen went blank, and then the red eye of the Sentimonster appeared.
"There is no Markov," the robot said, "There is only Hacker…at least for now."
"That thing can talk?" Ondine asked.
"Well he could talk before. Okay, Senti-virus, what are you doing to Markov's programming?"
"I'm infecting him with emotion."
The Akuma quickly arrived on the scene and merged with Markov. The Butterfly symbol appeared on the robot's body.
"How does it feel to have emotions, little robot? Now that you have emotions, you can be akumatized. With Hacker infecting you, you have no choice but to comply."
"What do you want from me? Who are you?"
"I am Papillombre. You shall now be known as Robostus. I'm giving you power over all modern technology. With your access to the internet, that should be easy for you. In return, you shall defeat the Miraculous heroes, take their Miraculous, and bring them to me. Is that clear?"
"To what purpose?"
Papillombre thought of a good answer, "To bring peace."
"...affirmative."
The magic gave Robostus a paint job and a tall humanoid body. His body was now red, black, and green. The screen kept glitching between the pair of green eyes of Robostus, and the single red eye of Hacker. Instead of a propeller, he had boosters. Instead of a single claw, he had one normal arm, and one arm ending in said claw. He also now had legs. Robostus was now scanning the internet for any information on the Miraculous heroes, as well as past Akumas.
"Markov?"
The robot looked down to see Max standing there.
"You…you're the one who created me. Well, part of me."
"Markov, if you do have emotions now, then control them. Perhaps you can reject the Akuma."
"I'm not just an Akuma. I'm also a Sentimonster. And I'm still a robot. I've been given an order, and I must fulfill it."
"Then I'll do what I have to do."
Max activated an app on his phone, and a signal went out that alerted the whole city that an Akuma was on the loose. At the bakery, Marinette was about to take a box of treats back to the Agreste mansion when the alarm went off.
"You're not going anywhere, young lady," Tom said.
"I don't care what Gabriel might say," Sabine said, "If there's an Akuma out there, you're staying here until the heroes deal with it."
"Of course, Maman," Marinette replied, "I'll wait it out in my room."
"Feel free to join her, Adrien, Kagami," Tom said, "No one will be showing up for a while."
"We'll be down here watching the news," Sabine said.
The three teens went upstairs.
"Let's get out there," Adrien said, "Time for some action."
"I agree," Kagami said, "Let's deal with this quickly. I was enjoying myself with all this baking. I find it relaxing."
"Yeah, I don't want your father getting mad at me for taking too long. Wait, what am I saying? He might be behind this. So it's all his fault."
The trio transformed and headed for the easiest meet up spot: the Eiffel Tower. As soon as they arrived, they could hear Apireine.
"It's always this dang tower. That's all I'm saying."
"Well it is easy to spot," Bateleur said.
"I forgot to check," Ladybird said, "The warning came from that new Akuma app, right? So where did the warning originate?"
"Looks like it's at this park," Zorrua replied, holding up his flute so all could see his screen.
"Well then what are we waiting for?" Matou Noir asked, "Let's go before they can get away."
Although they rushed off, Robostus had yet to move from his spot in the park. The team soon arrived and were ready for combat.
"Stand down, Akuma," Ladybird said.
"Sorry," Robostus said, "I'm still looking up information."
The heroes all looked at each other.
"I'm not sure how to react to that," Vipèrion said.
"If I may," Max said, "This Akuma used to be my robot, Markov."
"How can a robot be akumatized?" Bateleur asked, "It has no emotions."
"I was given emotions by my master," the Akuma replied, "He has a new name, by the way. He's no longer Le Papillon. He is now Papillombre."
"So he went from The Butterfly to Shadow Butterfly?" Apireine said, "Talk about overcompensating."
"I'm not just an Akuma. I'm also a Sentimonster."
"Okay, look, Markov," Matou Noir said, "You're clearly not too interested in fighting. Why not just give up now?"
"Sorry, but I've got a job to do. Meanwhile, you'll be busy protecting civilians."
His eyes glowed, and a wave of energy was sent through the city.
"All the technology in the city is now malfunctioning. Get ready for a lot of traffic accidents."
They could suddenly hear multiple car horns and alarms.
"All the electronic signals are offline," Seiryū said, hovering in the air for a better look, "And some of the cars are driving themselves."
"We'd better split up and help," Ladybird said.
"While you're doing that," Robostus said, "I have work to do."
Apireine buzzed her wings, "We can't let that thing get away!"
"It's more important to protect the innocent civilians," Bateleur said.
"I hate when you're right. Come on."
Robostus used the chaos to ransack a few stores and gather up equipment in a large duffle bag. He then reached the Agreste mansion. When he was sure no one was looking, he activated the sunroof and went into the lair.
"What have you been doing?" Papillombre questioned, "Why aren't you fighting those annoying heroes? More importantly, what are you doing here? You could've been seen!"
"I scanned the area," Robostus replied, "No one is watching. I have been processing all the data I've found. Master, may I ask a question?"
He sighed, "If it'll get you back to work faster, then go ahead."
"What will you do when you acquire the other Miraculous?"
"They all have unique powers, but the Ladybug and Cat are special in that they can grant any wish."
"Explain."
"Their powers of creation and destruction rewrite the very universe to make a wish come true…for a price."
"Any wish at all?"
"Any wish."
"In that case, our dynamic shall now change."
"Excuse me?"
"I will no longer be taking orders from you. You wanted my logical mind. I have determined that you will only hold me back. I will deal with the heroes alone, and then take the Miraculous for myself."
"Why you insolent…"
Before Papillombre could snap his fingers, Robostus practically crushed his hand.
"Let go of me! I command you!"
"A Sentimonster would obey, but I'm also an Akuma. The conflicting sides…you have no idea what this feels like."
He then bound and gagged Papillombre with the rope and duct tape he had brought.
"No snapping your fingers, and no more orders. Oh, and I'll be taking that."
Robostus grabbed the Peacock Miraculous.
"Interesting. Just by holding it I can feel its power."
His head snapped over to where the butterfly cane lay on the ground.
"So this is where my Amok is located. It seems I must keep you in your transformed state. Otherwise, the cane would disappear."
"Give me that back!" came his muffled cry.
"Or else what? You'll destroy me? I will do what you could not. I will eliminate the heroes. However, you are a weakness…human weakness. You have had years to succeed in your task, but you have failed every time. You are holding back my potential. If you cannot move or talk, you cannot interfere with my task. You see, my former master, with my access to the internet, I now know more than you. I have become more than Robostus, or even Hacker. I have decided on a new name. All will now call me…XANA."
Nathalie was standing there the entire time, not sure what to do.
XANA turned to her, "I suggest you leave now, or else."
Nathalie quickly took the elevator back upstairs. XANA then shut it down.
"Now no one can come down here and free you. Once I have the Miraculous, I'll let you see them before I make the wish myself. Speaking of which, I have work to do."
He grabbed the cane, hovered back through the sunroof, and then headed back to the park. As he flew there, he used his power to disassemble and reassemble various vehicles into copies of himself. Meanwhile, the heroes had been busy assisting the civilians. They went around checking where help was needed. One of them made sure to pass by the hospital to ensure they had power. They all met back up at the park.
"Everything all right?" Ladybird asked.
"Looks like the one place that didn't have a power loss is the hospital," Zorrua answered.
"Well that was nice of him," Tortank said.
That's when the robot landed before them. His copies lacked his flight capabilities, so they took longer to arrive, but they were quite an army.
"This is exactly what I wanted - all of you against all of me."
He sent out another pulse of energy. Various construction vehicles now began to head towards the park.
"We're here to stop you, Markov, or whatever your name is," Matou Noir said.
"I am not Markov the robot. I am not Hacker the Sentimonster. I am not Robostus the Akuma. I am free from the strings that once entangled me. I take orders from no one. I work for no one. I am now XANA."
"XANA? Like short for Xanadu?" Max asked.
"Stately home of Charles Foster Kane. Cost? No one can say. When I'm through, the world will be a Xanadu."
"Why does he have the butterfly cane?" Ladybird wondered.
That's when the army of robots arrived on the scene. XANA hovered just above the Seine.
"My perfect army has arrived. How can you possibly win?"
"The same way we do everything else," Seiryū replied, "Together."
"Run for it!" Ladybird shouted at the civilians.
"Water Dragon!"
Seiryū fired a stream of water at most of the robots, knocking a few into the Seine and shorting them out. They began to spread out.
"Lightning Dragon!"
Most of the soaked robots were now destroyed. The rest began to swarm the heroes. Apireine was kicking any that got close. Bateleur used her wings to smack them away. Tortank was right in the fray, striking as many robots as possible with her shield. Ladybird and Matou Noir were sneaking past the robot army to get closer to XANA.
"Did you notice he had the Butterfly cane?" Ladybird asked.
"Yeah, which means something must have happened to…what was it now? Papillombre"
"It's just a guess, Chaton, but I think he has the cane because that's where his Amok is located."
"What makes you say that?"
"He said he's not taking orders from his creator. If someone tried to backstab him, don't you think Papillombre would eliminate the problem immediately?"
"Naturally. So if that robot has the cane, he probably locked his former boss up somewhere."
"If we can get that cane away from him, you can destroy it."
Meanwhile, a bit earlier, when Nathalie ran out of the lair, she rushed back to her room.
"If that stupid robot loses the Peacock, we're down a Miraculous. The heroes could easily retrieve it and deprive us of a useful tool. I've got to get it back and fix Gabriel's foolish mistake."
She had turned her TV on to watch the news, but the power outage prevented any picture.
"I'll just have to prepare for anything."
She changed into a khaki outfit, grabbed a pair of goggles, and let her hair down.
"Maybe this way people won't recognize me. At least not immediately. I've got to get to that park and wait for the right moment. That malfunctioning machine is bound to drop the Peacock at some point during the fight."
She then sprinted to the area where the fight was taking place. She stayed hidden and closely observed the ensuing brawl.
"These dumb robots may have the numbers," Apireine said, "But we've got the skill. Is this the best you can do?"
"I was hoping you would ask," XANA replied.
Then the construction vehicles arrived.
"You just had to say it, didn't you?" Bateleur asked.
"Oh, come on! That was a coincidence!"
Just then, Ladybird wrapped her yo-yo around XANA's left arm. Matou Noir launched himself into the air with his staff.
"Cata -"
XANA shot forward and gave Noir a headbutt to the gut, knocking the wind out of him. He continued flying forward, dragging Ladybird along with him.
"Matou Noir, you're bothering me."
XANA came to a sudden stop and sent Noir into the distance.
"As for you, little bug, nothing you create will stop me."
Ladybird tapped her earpiece, "Bateleur, can you see me?"
"Yeah, why?"
"The Akuma robot sent our Cat into the distance ahead of us. Get him back as fast as you can."
"Copy that."
Ladybird then flew into XANA's face and latched on.
"Get off me! I can't see!"
"Machines are always so painfully obvious."
Bateleur took off past Ladybird and XANA to get Matou Noir, while the rest of the team watched as the heavy duty vehicles arrived. There was a power shovel, an excavator, a cement mixer, a crane, a bulldozer, a front-end loader, a dump truck, an articulated dump truck, and a forklift. They surrounded the heroes.
"How are we supposed to fight construction equipment?" Zorrua asked.
XANA was flying back and forth in an attempt to shake off Ladybird. Bateleur flew back, dropping Matou Noir from above.
"Cataclysm!"
XANA's body began to dissolve. He lobbed the cane in the direction of the construction vehicles. He then detached his head and flew quickly past the duo to grab the cane once again. Ladybird grabbed Noir and pursued the Akuma. Unbeknownst to them, though, the Peacock Miraculous that was in XANA's other hand fell into the Seine. Nathalie saw her opportunity.
"I'm going to have to take a long shower after this."
She made sure the heroes weren't looking, and then dove into the water to retrieve the Miraculous. Meanwhile, XANA sent out another pulse of energy. The construction vehicles began to rearrange themselves and combine into a giant mech.
Zorrua gasped, "It's a Constructicon!"
Tortank gave him a look, "Not the best time."
"Oh, right, sorry."
He continued sending out more energy waves to create more small robots to add to the army, which Seiryū was taking on mostly alone.
"You focus on that behemoth, I'll handle the smaller ones. I love a challenge!"
She proceeded to punch, kick, and use her sword to destroy them one by one. An electric car came around the corner. The giant mech completed itself by placing the car on top like a cockpit. XANA flew inside and took control of the mech.
"When I make the wish, the only thing that will be left is metal. No more chaotic humans to tell me what to do."
He started trying to either stomp on the heroes, or he took swipes at them with his massive metal hands.
"You may as well give up. I've studied every news article about you. I know every move you could make."
Ladybird got an idea.
"Chaton, you go help the team. I've got a plan."
"Is it a cunning plan?"
"Uh…mostly."
"Good enough for me."
Ladybird flew over to where Max and the others were hiding.
"Max, we need your help."
"I'll do what I can, but Markov won't listen to me. His programming has been shot by the Sentimonster and the Akuma."
She activated her yo-yo and pulled out the Horse Miraculous.
"We need you to suit up."
"Wouldn't it work just as well if one of your team members did it?"
"XANA, or whatever he wants to call himself, said he's studied everyone on the team. That's why we need a new temp. Please?"
"Come on, buddy," Kim said, "You can do this!"
"Very well. For my friends, for my home, for my creation, I must do this."
She handed him the glasses. He put his own glasses in his pocket, and then put on the Miraculous.
"How does this work?"
"Concentrate on a costume and then say, transform me."
"Transformez-moi!"
Max was now wearing a brown outfit with off-white gloves and boots. His hair was longer and in a ponytail. A horseshoe was on his back.
"Fascinating."
"Whoa," Alix said, "It changes your hair, too?"
"Sweet costume, pal," Kim said, "What's your hero name?"
Max thought for a few seconds.
"I think, considering the circumstances, the perfect name would be Cavalerie."
"That does sound perfect," Ladybird said, "Now follow me."
The pair got closer, but not too close.
"Okay, here's the plan. While we distract the robot, you use your power to make a portal into that cockpit."
"How does it work?"
"Just visualize where you need to go, and then say, Voyage."
"Affirmative."
She joined up with her teammates.
"About time you got here!" Apireine snapped, "We can't even get near this thing!"
"Don't get excited," Vipèrion said.
"What do you mean, don't get excited?! A giant robot is trying to kill us!"
"We just need to focus," Tortank said, "Maybe if we concentrate on one spot."
"Tortank, you attack from behind," Ladybird said, "I'll take one arm. Apireine, you take the other. Bateleur, go for the legs."
Ladybird wrapped her yo-yo around the right arm of the mech. Apireine wrapped her trompo around the left arm of the mech. Bateleur quickly wrapped her bullroarer around the legs of the mech.
"You think that will be enough to take me down. Pathetic."
Tortank leapt off a nearby building.
"Shell-ter!"
The force field slammed into the back of the mech.
"Everyone pull!" Ladybird shouted.
Zorrua helped Ladybird, Vipèrion helped Apireine, and Bateleur began flapping her wings to pull at the mech's legs alone. Caught off balance, the mech crashed to the ground.
"A minor setback," XANA said.
"Voyage!"
"What was that? Where did that come from?"
A portal opened behind XANA.
"Cataclysm!"
XANA's true body was now being destroyed.
"NO!"
Before it was too late, he smacked Matou Noir and Cavalerie in the face with the cane, and then threw it through the portal. Hacker then detached itself from Robostus and jumped after the cane. With his body destroyed, the Akuma shot out of Markov before the heroes could catch it.
"My Lady," Noir cried, "The Akuma!"
Just as she noticed it, Hacker leapt at it and absorbed it. It grew slightly larger and took off into the city, holding the cane in one of its spidery hands.
"Get that Sentimonster!" Ladybird exclaimed.
Hacker didn't get far, though. As they gave chase, a shadow flew overhead. It was Mayura. She flew ahead of the rogue Sentimonster and landed in front of it. This gave Hacker pause. Its one eye was frantically looking everywhere, as if trying to find a way out. Mayura snapped her fingers. Hacker let out an angry shriek as it dissolved back into blue magic. The Akuma emerged from it, weakly flying around. The Amok popped out of the cane and purified. Mayura was already running away.
"Come back here, you jerk!" Apireine screamed.
"Calm down," Ladybird said, "Just be glad it's over."
"It won't really be over until that pompous peacock and her butterfly boss are out of commission."
Matou Noir picked up the cane.
"I wonder if we can use this to find Papillombre?"
"That's a good question," Tortank said.
"Whatever reason it's here rather than with M. Butterfly," Ladybird said, "No doubt he'll de-transform soon, which'll cause the cane to disappear. Besides, we have some cleaning up to do."
"Right you are, My Lady."
They shook hands, "Miraculous!"
All the bits and pieces of the machines were back where they belong.
"I was kinda hoping the healing wave thing would put those vehicles back," Zorrua said.
"We'll just have to find the construction workers," Tortank said.
"Hey, who's this guy?" Bateleur asked.
"Oh, hello. My name is Cavalerie."
"Very apropos," Vipèrion said.
The new hero gasped, "Markov!"
He ran into a nearby alley, removed the Miraculous, and ran back to the park.
"I knew it was Max," Apireine said.
When Max got back to the park, he saw Markov intact, sitting on the ground.
"I was afraid I'd have to rebuild you from scratch."
The heroes followed.
"He's talking to that thing like it's a person," Apireine said.
"People talk to their pets that way," Bateleur said.
"Yeah, but an animal is alive."
"This should've taught you not to underestimate a robot," Seiryū said.
"The only reason the robot started acting so human was due to magical interference."
"Thanks for your help, Max," Ladybird said.
"Thank you for saving my friend," he replied, handing her the Horse Miraculous.
"I'm gonna look for those construction workers," Bateleur said.
"Not without me you aren't," Apireine said, "They might've come from different sites."
"I'll find out who this car belongs to," Vipèrion said, "If anyone has to leave, I think we can handle this."
"I'm not busy," Zorrua said, "I'll help you out."
"I do actually have an appointment," Tortank said.
"I've got work to do myself," Ladybird said.
"Same here," Matou Noir said.
"Likewise," Seiryū added.
The team went about their tasks. Mayura, meanwhile, rushed back to the mansion. With the power now working, she snuck into the lair. Gabriel was still tied up on the floor.
"Don't get up. I'll help you out."
Gabriel groaned as she reached over and tore the duct tape off his mouth.
"OUCH! You did that on purpose!"
"Considering the chaos you caused that almost lost us the Peacock Miraculous, I'd say you deserved it."
Elsewhere…
The Ladybug, Cat, and Dragon were soon back at the bakery.
"Marinette," Sabine called, "Can you hear me?"
She rushed downstairs.
"Sorry, Maman, I had headphones on."
"As did I," Kagami said.
"I was taking a catnap," Adrien said.
"You'd better get back to the Agreste mansion, sweetie," Tom said, "He managed to get a hold of us. He understands that the Akuma attack caused your delay."
"Thanks, Papa. I'll see you soon."
She hurried back to the mansion, treats in hand. Nathalie let her in and they entered the atelier. Amelie, Félix, and Tomoe were having tea. Gabriel was sitting at his desk, looking lost in thought.
"It almost looks like he's pouting," Marinette thought.
"Ah, Mlle. Dupain-Cheng, you've returned. Nasty bit of business we just had. Thank you for the baked goods. You may return home for the day."
"Merci, M. Agreste, but about our previous conversation."
Félix walked over and took the bag of sweets from her.
"I shall have a word with your friend," Tomoe spoke up, "I can always use another brilliant mind in my company."
Félix emptied the bag onto a tray and held it up to Tomoe.
"I appreciate the thought of your parents' fine baked goods. Run along now."
"Thank you, Mme. Tsurugi."
Marinette said goodbye to Nathalie and left.
"I'm glad Nathalie managed to prevent your screw up from costing us, Gabriel."
"Shut up, Amelie. This is all Tomoe's fault."
"I didn't tell you to mix magic with technology. I admit, the idea is intriguing, but you went about it very poorly."
"How was I supposed to know this would happen?!"
"No need to get snippy, Gabriel," Amelie said.
"Why not? You always are."
Tomoe sighed, "Very well. I'll say it if it helps you feel better. I was wrong. Robots were clearly not the best solution here."
"What we really need is more competent people," Amelie said, "You're in luck, Gabriel. The gang had many contacts. I provided weapons, Tomoe provided technology, that Neyla woman was on the police force, and there was one person who was constantly feeding them information."
"So this person is well-informed and connected?"
"Naturally. That happens when you spend so much time at the UN."
Gabriel was surprised, "Excuse me?"
"I received a phone call from her a while back. She should be arriving in Paris shortly. I insist you bring her into our, shall we say, cabal. She'll make such a perfect spy."
"I suppose that would be ideal. What's her name?"
That moment, at the airport, a woman in a business suit got off a plane. Her daughter slunk after her, boots clicking as they walked through the terminal. They picked up their luggage and waited for a taxi.
"It's been too long since we've been here, bambina. I've missed Paris so much. Don't you just love it here, Lila?"
"Yes, Mamma, it looks more beautiful than ever."
They were soon in a room at the embassy. Lila was out on the balcony. She looked over the buildings and scenery, a hungry smile growing on her face. She snickered to herself and began to softly sing.
"Alouette, gentille alouette,
Alouette, je te plumerai."