Chapter 9: Dark Cupid
Hey everyone! I'm back with a new chapter! Tomorrow marks the start of Miraculous Season 6, and I can't wait for it! Even if the animation looks a little different, I think we'll all get used to it in time. This chapter was a bit tricky to fit my OCs into, but I think I got it right. I also want to thank Cloud4012 for helping me with my OC and everything else.
Anyway, sit back, relax, review, and enjoy!
It was Valentine's Day in Paris, the most romantic city on Earth, and love was in the air. At school, Ms. Bustier was teaching her class about the literature of fairy tales.
"In most fairy tales, the prince breaks the spell by kissing the princess. Who can tell us why?" Ms. Bustier asked.
"Because only love can conquer hate," Rose said cheerfully.
"Correct, Rose," Ms. Bustier replied.
"Technically, this is only true in 87% of cases," Max interjected matter-of-factly.
"Thank you, Max. Adrien, I hope what you're writing has something to do with my lesson. What did I just say?" Ms. Bustier asked as she walked over to Adrien, who was scribbling something on a piece of paper.
"The prince breaks the spell by kissing the princess because only love conquers hate," Adrien said quickly.
"Very good," Ms. Bustier said just as the school bell rang. "Don't forget to finish *Sleeping Beauty* and Happy Valentine's Day!" she called as everyone filed out of the room.
"Hey, you go ahead. I'll meet you outside," Marinette said to Alya.
As Alya left the room, Oliver walked up to her, holding something behind his back. "Happy Valentine's Day, Alya," Oliver said, smiling warmly.
"Happy Valentine's Day," Alya replied with a bright smile as they hugged. "So, what do you have planned for us?"
"Well, I was thinking tonight, just you and me spending the evening together with a romantic dinner and a movie," Oliver said.
"You're going to cook me dinner?" Alya asked, blushing.
"Of course. I wanted to do something special for my girlfriend," Oliver replied confidently.
Alya grinned and wrapped her arms around his neck. "How did I get so lucky to meet someone like you?"
"Luck had nothing to do with it," Oliver said, leaning in for a kiss.
But Alya held up a teasing finger. "Ah, ah, ah! Sorry, not until our date," she teased with a playful smirk.
"What? Why?" Oliver asked, clearly disappointed.
"Good things come to those who wait," Alya said, winking as she walked away.
Oliver sighed, watching her leave. "Man, I love that girl."
"Well, maybe now's the time to get everything ready for your date. You *are* cooking, after all," Cloud, his kwami, said as he popped out of Oliver's jacket.
"Oh yeah, good idea, Cloud. Let's go," Oliver agreed. As he turned to leave, he noticed Leo sitting at his desk.
Leo was humming softly as he scribbled something on a piece of paper, only to rip it up, crumple it into a ball, and toss it aside in frustration.
Oliver walked over. "Hey, Leo, what's up? What are you working on?"
Leo glanced up and sighed. "Just trying to write a Valentine's note, but everything I come up with sounds... dumb."
Cloud chuckled. "Why not keep it simple? Sometimes, less is more!"
"Yeah, maybe," Leo muttered, looking at the pile of balled-up papers next to him.
Oliver smiled and patted his shoulder. "You've got this, Leo. Just speak from the heart."
Crumbling up a piece of paper and throwing it away Adrien walks out of the classroom when Chloe and Sabrina walk over with a rolled-up poster.
"Adrien, sign here please." Chloe said rolling a bit of it open.
"You know I hate signing autographs Chloe." Adrien said.
"That's not what this is it's a petition against cruelty to hamsters. Have you seen the hideous sweaters they have to wear?" Chloe said.
Adrien sighs as Chloe hands him a marker so he can sign his name before walking away.
As Chloe cheers in victory the two girls see Marinette pull something out of the trash.
"Well, well Marinette, looking for something to eat?" Chloe mocks.
"Maybe she's looking for some better clothes." Sabrina said as the two of them walk away laughing causing Marinette to growl.
"Ignore them Marinette they're not worth it." Tikki said popping out of her purse.
"Yeah you're right." Marinette uncrumples the paper Adrien threw out. "Hair as dark as night, your pretty bluebell eyes. I wonder who you are beneath that strong disguise. Every day we see each other, and I hope that you'll be mine. Together our love could be so true please will you be my Valentine."
"Wow, now that's a love poem." Tikki said impressed.
"Who could he be talking about?" Marinette asks.
"Well…you." Tikki points likes it's so obvious.
"Me no way. There are plenty of girls at school with dark hair and blue eyes." Marinette giggles.
"Yeah, but bluebell eyes?" Tikki asks.
Marinette looks at the note. "What do you think he means by strong disguise?"
Tikki sighs. "This is poetry. He means who you are deep down inside. He wants to get to know you. He's talking about you."
Marinette squeals in delight. "Pinch me." Thinking it was an order Tikki pinches Marinette causing her to shriek. "Not literally!"
Miraculous Tales of Fireblaze and Frost Fang Theme Song
In the daytime, I'm Leo
Leo is walking through the city streets in daylight, wearing his casual clothes, blending in like any other normal kid.
Just a normal boy with a normal life
Leo sits in class at school, scribbling in his notebook, and talking to friends.
And In the daytime, I'm Oliver, just a cool kid with an amazing life.
Oliver is shown skating through the streets, grinning confidently.
but There's something about us that no one knows yet because we have a secret!
Leo transforms into Fireblaze, flames swirling around him as he ignites his powers. Oliver transforms into Frost Fang, icy winds swirling around him as snowflakes form.
Another day, I'm back at school,
But the city calls and it's time to rule,
I've got the spark, the flame inside,
When danger strikes, there's no need to hide!
Fireblaze leaps across the rooftops, flames trailing behind him as he runs toward an akumatized villain. Frost Fang joins him, riding a wave of ice, drawing his frost-coated daggers.
Oh-oh-oh, when the cold sets in,
Oh-oh-oh, let the fight begin,
Oh-oh-oh, with ice and snow,
We'll freeze the foe!
Frost Fang casts a powerful ice blast, creating an icy barrier to protect his teammates, then slides across the frozen ground to deliver a swift attack alongside Fireblaze.
Miraculous, we light the sky!
Ready to fight when danger is high!
Miraculous, the fire within!
With power and heart, we'll always win!
Fireblaze swings his swords while Frost Fang sends icicles flying at the villain. Their combined powers create a swirling vortex of fire and ice.
By day we hide, just playing it cool,
But when we fight, we bend the rules,
We'll burn so bright, and freeze the ground,
No villain's safe, when we're around!
Fireblaze summons a glowing sun, while Frost Fang summons a storm of ice. Their attacks combine, sending fire and frost blasting through the villain's defenses.
Oh-oh-oh, the cold is biting strong,
Oh-oh-oh, but with Fireblaze, we can't go wrong!*
Oh-oh-oh, and when we feel the ice,
That's when we strike twice!
Frost Fang and Fireblaze charge alongside Ladybug and Cat Noir. Their teamwork is flawless as they take down the villain with their powers perfectly synchronized.
Miraculous, we light the sky!
Ready to fight when danger is high!
Miraculous, the fire and frost!
With power and heart, we'll never be lost!
Fireblaze lands the final fiery blow, while Frost Fang freezes the villain's weapon. Cat Noir uses his staff to knock the weapon out of the villain's hands, allowing Ladybug to capture the Akuma. The city returns to normal as they fist bump.
There's no stopping us,
With fire and frost combined,
We'll protect the world,
One battle at a time!
Fireblaze and Frost Fang stand on a rooftop at sunrise, looking out over Paris. Ladybug and Cat Noir stand beside them, ready for the next challenge.
Miraculous, we light the way!
Fighting for justice every day!
Miraculous, the flame and frost,
With Ladybug and Cat Noir, we're never lost!
Leo and Oliver de-transform back into their normal selves, smiling at each other as they head to school with their friends.
Miraculous!
As Marinette and Alya walked out of school they saw Max and Kim nearby.
"Operation Valentine's Day is commencing. According to my research of shopping sites, this jewel was ranked highest in popularity." Max said handing Kim a heart shaped box. Inside was a beautiful piece of jewelry.
"Perfect. I'll hit a home run with this. Love is like baseball, right? You got to have a strategy, or you strike out. But if you aim right you'll hit a homerun." Kim said.
Looking closely Alya and Marinette come over.
"Great Metaphor Kim." Max said.
"Meta-who?" Kim said confused.
"Wow, sparkly. Is that for me?" Alya teases.
"No, Alya it's for someone else." Max said, but before he could say more Kim grabs him.
"Shh! Keep quiet." Kim said.
"Scoop! Kim's got a crush. Who's the lucky lady?" Alya asks.
"It's gorgeous Kim. She's going to be ecstatic." Marinette said.
"Well she still has to accept it. *gasps* What if she says no?" Kim asks scared.
"No way, don't hold back. Go for it. No regrets!" Marinette said.
"Yeah. Operation Valentine's Day is underway!" Kim said excited.
"Alright if you at 10 miles per hour you'll get a 4-minute lead on her. Wait here facing south, the third most romantic spot in Paris. Go, go, go." Max said handing Kim a map.
"Thanks guys." Kim said taking the map and running off.
"I know someone who's good at giving advice, but not good at taking it." Alya said pointing to Adrien getting in his car.
"You're right it's time I told him the truth." Marinette said surprising her.
"Say what?" Alya asks shocked.
"I'm gonna tell him my true feelings. Well I'm gonna write them…on a card." Marinette said.
Alya smiles seeing her best friend finally do it. "Yeah.
"Operation Valentine's Day!" The two girls said running off giggling in agreement.
Across the school a group of girls were admiring a poster of Adrien from his recent photo shoot when Chloe and Sabrina walk over.
"Keep dreaming all you want girls, but the boy is mine." Chloe said as Sabrina unrolls the poster causing everyone to gasp.
"To Chloe, the most awesome girl in the world and the love of my life. Signed Adrien!" The girls burst into tears of sadness.
Later that afternoon at Leo's house, Oliver was laying out all the food he had picked up for dinner while Cloud watched him prepare the vegetables.
"I have to say, Oliver, it's impressive seeing you do all this," Cloud said, munching on a piece of fish.
"Well, when your aunt and uncle are out of the house and your cousin is off at his friend's place—or spending long hours at some computer company—you learn to take care of things yourself," Oliver replied with a smirk.
"Still, you're really going all out for Alya," Cloud remarked.
"Cloud , we've been together for a few months now, and I want to show her how much that means to me," Oliver said, slicing a carrot with precision.
"To be young and in love," Cloud chuckled, floating lazily in the air.
"I just hope she likes it," Oliver admitted nervously.
"Come on, of course she will! That's just your nerves talking," Cloud reassured him.
"Sorry, it's just... I want everything to go perfectly," Oliver said, pausing to wipe his hands.
"Oliver, she's crazy about you, and you're crazy about her. It's going to be fine," Cloud said confidently.
Oliver smiled. "You're the best, buddy. Heads up!"
He tossed another piece of fish toward Cloud, who caught it effortlessly and gave him a thumbs-up.
Meanwhile,in Leo's room, Leo was sitting cross-legged on his bed, his desk cluttered with crumpled pieces of paper. Each one bore the marks of failed attempts at crafting the perfect Valentine's Day letter for Marinette. His Kwami, Soll, hovered nearby, observing him with an amused expression.
Leo sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Why is this so hard, Soll? It's just a letter! I mean, how many times can I write, 'Dear Marinette, you're amazing,' without sounding like a complete idiot?"
Soll chuckled, perching on the edge of a nearby lamp. "Maybe it's because you're overthinking it, Leo. It's not a battle plan; it's just your feelings. Why not write what's in your heart?"
Leo groaned, tossing another crumpled paper toward the overflowing trash can. "Easier said than done. What if she thinks it's cheesy or… or she doesn't feel the same way? I don't want to ruin our friendship."
Soll floated closer, placing a tiny paw on Leo's shoulder. "Marinette is one of the kindest people you know. Even if she doesn't feel the same, she'd never hold it against you. But, if you don't try, you'll never know."
Leo stared at the blank sheet in front of him. He tapped the pen against his chin. "Maybe you're right. Okay, let's try this again."
He started writing slowly, the words beginning to flow more naturally.
"Dear Marinette,"*
"I don't know if you'll feel the same way, but I need to tell you how much you mean to me. You're more than just a friend to me. You're the person who inspires me to be better, to do better. You light up every room you walk into, and every time I see your smile, my day gets brighter. I just want you to know that you're amazing, and… I like you. A lot."*
Leo paused, reading over his words. "Does this sound okay? Or is it too much?"
Soll tilted his head, smiling. "It sounds perfect. Honest and straight from your heart."
Leo folded the letter carefully and placed it in an envelope, writing Marinette's name on the front in his neatest handwriting. "Alright, now the hard part… actually giving it to her."
Soll grinned. "That's tomorrow's problem. For now, you've got a letter, and you've got courage. You're already halfway there."
Leo smiled, feeling a little lighter. "Thanks, Soll. I think I needed that pep talk."
"Anytime, partner," Soll replied, settling back on the lamp.
Leo lay back on his bed, clutching the letter to his chest. Tomorrow, he'd take the leap. For now, he let himself relax, knowing he'd at least taken the first step.
At the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris, where the rails were covered with locks placed by couples, Kim stood nervously waiting. As he hesitated, Chloe strolled by, chatting on her phone.
"Yes, that's right, in a 24-carat frame. Deliver it to Le Grand Paris Hotel and bill it to Daddy—I mean, Mr. Bourgeois," Chloe said, her tone dripping with entitlement. She abruptly stopped when Kim stepped into her path. "What are you doing here?" she asked, looking at him quizzically.
"I… I…" Kim stammered, struggling to find the words.
"You… you… what?" Chloe prompted impatiently, tapping her foot.
Kim cleared his throat, gathering his courage. He leaned down, but his knee landed in a puddle. "Will you be my Valentine?" he asked, holding out a small gift. Just then, a bike zoomed past, splashing him with water, and a stray bag of chips flew through the air, hitting him square in the face.
"Don't move," Chloe said with a smirk, pulling out her phone. She snapped a picture of the soaked, humiliated Kim and burst into laughter. "Wait until everyone sees this! No offense, Kim, but my heart is reserved for someone way more awesome. Don't you just hate how harsh love can be?" She giggled, walking away without a second thought.
Kim stood frozen, his gift slipping from his hands as tears welled up in his eyes. Feeling humiliated and rejected, he began to sob quietly.
Unbeknownst to him, Hawk Moth was watching.
"Valentine's Day: a day of love and of heartbreak. So many shattered illusions, so much pain to exploit. My evil Akumas, it's time for a field day," Hawk Moth said, extending his hand and charging a butterfly with dark energy. "Fly, my little Akuma, and evilize him."
Back at the bridge, Kim clutched the brooch he'd intended to give Chloe, his sadness intensifying. The Akuma entered the brooch, and Hawk Moth's voice echoed in his mind.
"Dark Cupid, I am Hawk Moth. I grant you the power to shoot arrows that pierce love and destroy friendships. But in return, you must bring me Ladybug's and Cat Noir's Miraculouses."
"No love affair or friendship will escape my fury. No one will ever love again," Kim declared as he transformed.
Dark Cupid emerged, his appearance twisted to match his new purpose. He wore a red and black suit with a broken heart emblazoned on his chest. Red and black wings sprouted from his back, the corrupted brooch binding him like a sash. In his hand, he held a large, sinister bow.
Taking to the skies, Dark Cupid scanned the city. He spotted a man presenting his date with a heart-shaped cake. Without hesitation, Dark Cupid nocked an arrow and fired, striking the woman. Her lips turned black as she scowled and shoved the cake into the river before storming away.
Dark Cupid flew across Paris, firing his arrows of anti-love, leaving chaos in his wake. Hawk Moth observed with a sinister grin.
"It won't be long now. Ladybug, Fireblaze, Frost Fang, and Cat Noir will face their doom!" Hawk Moth declared, his laughter echoing through the lair.
At her family bakery Marinette and Alya were leaving so Marinette could send her love letter to Adrien.
"Candy Apples girls?" Mr. Dupain said holding up treats in the shape of hearts.
"Thanks papa." Marinette said taking two and giving him a kiss on the cheek before leaving.
"Come on Marinette, do it before you chicken out." Alya said standing by the mailbox.
Marinette takes a deep breath handing her candy apple to Alya. Marinette struggles in fear until she puts the letter inside causing them both to cheer. "I did it." Marinette smiled when suddenly they both got a text.
They take them out to see the text was from Chloe.
"Since when did Chloe start texting us?" Alya asks as Marinette shrugs opening the picture they see the picture of Kim humiliated. "What a witch!" Alya growled.
"And I was the one who told Kim to go for it. I didn't know he was talking about her." Marinette said in regret.
"I hope Adrien doesn't do the same thing to do." Alya said causing Marinette to freak out and try to pull her letter out of the mailbox.
"What have I done?" Marinette panics.
"Chill girl I was joking, kind of. Adrien would never do that. Wait what is that?" Alya points to the sky and they see Dark Cupid flying above them.
Dark Cupid looks around and spots the candy apples shaped like hearts in Alya's hands. "All hearts must be destroyed!" He said grabbing one of his arrows and fires it hitting Alya.
"Alya?" Marinette gasps worried when Alya shoves the candy apples onto Marinette causing them to stick to her shirt. "Hey, seriously?"
"You're not my BFF. You're a joke! Adrien will laugh his head off at your lame attempt at poetry." Alya cackles running off.
"What did he do to her?" Marinette asks looking at Dark Cupid and notices the brooch strapped to him. "I've seen that jewel before. It's Kim's pin. He's been Akumatized. This is…not good." Marinette said taking the candy apples off her shirt. "We've got to find him fast." Marinette runs into the park and finds a secluded spot. "Tikki, spots on!" Marinette said as her earrings glowed, and she transformed into Ladybug.
At Le Grand Paris Hotel, Chloe was fuming as she inspected the frame delivered for her signed poster of Adrien.
"I never said 18-carat gold! This tone will never match my 24-carat toilet! Idiots!" Chloe yelled, her voice echoing through the hotel lobby.
From the top of a nearby building, Dark Cupid pulled back his bow, aiming directly at her. As he prepared to fire, Ladybug's yo-yo struck the bow, knocking his aim off and causing his arrow to hit a delivery truck instead. The impact startled everyone nearby.
"Ladybug!" Dark Cupid growled in anger, glaring down at her.
"Stop this, Kim," Ladybug said firmly, stepping into view.
"I'm not Kim! I'm Dark Cupid! If I can't have love, no one can!" Dark Cupid declared with venom in his voice.
Below, the delivery workers hastily drove off, while Sabrina grabbed Chloe's arm and pulled her inside the hotel for safety.
"Look, I get it—Chloe hurt you," Ladybug said, her voice calm yet resolute. "But you don't have to take it out on all of Paris."
"Yes, I do!" Dark Cupid snapped. "And I won't stop until all hearts are crushed! Say adios to your loved ones because from now on, you'll hate them!"
With that, Dark Cupid fired a flurry of arrows toward Ladybug. She quickly used her yo-yo to deflect them, each arrow ricocheting harmlessly away. The two began a tense chase across the rooftops, with Dark Cupid relentlessly shooting as Ladybug nimbly dodged and countered.
As they battled, Ladybug slipped on the edge of a roof. She scrambled, her feet slipping over the edge, but she managed to loop her yo-yo around a nearby storm drain just in time to stop her fall. Dangling precariously, she glanced up at Dark Cupid, who hovered above, bow drawn and a malicious grin on his face.
Flying into the air, Dark Cupid scanned the area but couldn't find Ladybug anywhere.
"If you want to keep destroying love, bring me Ladybug's Miraculous, or I will strip you of your powers," Hawk Moth commanded telepathically as Dark Cupid continued his search.
"Falling for me already?"
Dark Cupid turned to see Ladybug perched below him, while Cat Noir balanced on his extended staff, smirking.
"I need to talk to you," Cat Noir said, helping Ladybug down from her precarious position.
"Can it wait—" Ladybug began, but Cat Noir cut her off.
"I swore to myself I would tell you as soon as I saw you," he said seriously. "Ladybug, I-I…"
Before he could finish, Dark Cupid swooped in, firing an arrow. Acting on instinct, Cat Noir stepped in front of Ladybug, taking the hit himself.
Ladybug gasped. "Cat Noir!"
Cat Noir blinked, his expression darkening. "Ladybug, I… loathe you."
"No! Cat Noir, snap out of it!" Ladybug cried, trying to break through the spell.
"You're nothing to me, Ladybug. I hate you," Cat Noir growled, his voice cold.
Thinking fast, Ladybug stomped on his foot, using the distraction to escape. She leaped toward Le Grand Paris Hotel, where she found Chloe and Sabrina hiding in the lobby.
"Ladybug, it's so good to see you! What took you so long?" Chloe said, clearly oblivious to the danger.
Meanwhile, outside, Cat Noir retracted his staff and climbed toward the roof, where Dark Cupid waited for him.
"Offer to help him, but in return, demand Ladybug's Miraculous," Hawk Moth instructed Dark Cupid.
"I can help you crush Ladybug, but you must hand over Fire Blaze's and Frost Fang's Miraculous in return," Dark Cupid said, extending his hand.
"No… problem," Cat Noir replied with a smirk, shaking on the deal.
"Yes… yes! Once I have Ladybug's Miraculous, taking Cat Noir's, Fire Blaze's, and Frost Fang's will be child's play!" Hawk Moth exclaimed with glee.
Back in the hotel, Ladybug tried to reason with Chloe.
"You have to leave. Kim has turned into Dark Cupid, and he's after you. He can't find you here," Ladybug warned.
"Me? But why would he have a vendetta against me?" Chloe asked, completely clueless.
"Who doesn't?" Ladybug muttered under her breath.
"It's because of that," Chloe said, pointing to the framed poster of Adrien displayed outside.
"His name's Adrien. A super-hot guy in my class—and rich, too. Of course, he's totally into me," Chloe bragged.
"Not according to the poem," Ladybug mumbled as Sabrina gasped and pointed outside.
"It's alive!" Sabrina shrieked as the framed poster of Adrien appeared to walk toward the hotel.
They quickly realized it was Dark Cupid moving behind it.
"Look out!" Ladybug shouted, deflecting Dark Cupid's arrows with her yo-yo. Wrapping her yo-yo around Chloe, Ladybug pulled her out of the hotel.
"Run, Chloe! Run!" Ladybug ordered as they fled down the street, only to have Cat Noir leap in front of them while Dark Cupid flew after Sabrina and Chloe.
"Well, well. Ladybug and Without her trusty birdie and mutt," Cat Noir taunted, his tone dripping with disdain.
"I don't want to fight you, Cat Noir," Ladybug said, trying to reason with him.
"That friendliness is revolting. You're not my friend," Cat Noir snapped as he readied his staff.
Using his staff like a spring, Cat Noir launched himself into the air and dove toward Ladybug. She narrowly dodged, leaping onto the rooftops with Cat Noir in hot pursuit. Turning a corner, Ladybug threw her yo-yo, wrapping it around Cat Noir's staff.
"Why are you so full of hate?" Ladybug asked.
"Because hate conquers all," Cat Noir replied with a dark grin.
"Hate to burst your bubble, but hate doesn't conquer all. Love does," Ladybug countered, suddenly recalling a lesson she'd learned about breaking spells with love.
"You're stalling… Fight!" Cat Noir demanded, splitting his staff into two weapons.
Ladybug pulled her yo-yo back and smirked. "I have a better idea." She began walking toward him. "Come on, kitty-kitty, just a peck." She puckered her lips and leaned in.
"Get away from me, you savage!" Cat Noir yelled, panicking and running away, clearly freaked out.
Meanwhile, at Marinette's Bakery, Oliver was walking out with a small box. "Thanks again, Mr. Dupain," Oliver said, waving goodbye.
"Happy Valentine's Day," Mr. Dupain replied with a smile.
Walking down the street, Oliver saw Alya across the way. "There she is," he muttered, smiling as he walked over to her. "Hey Alya, you ready for our dinner tonight?"
Alya turned around, still infected by Dark Cupid's arrow. "Ugh, no. Why on Earth would I want to hang out with you?"
"What? Uh, because I invited you," Oliver said, surprised.
"Please! There's nothing in the world that could make me want to be with you," Alya laughed, running off.
Cloud popped out of Oliver's jacket. "Okay, what was that about? Did she hit her head or something?"
"I don't know, Cloud. Something is up with her," Oliver replied, confused.
"Well, you're her boyfriend. Try doing something to snap her out of it," Cloud suggested.
"Right." Oliver nodded and ran after her. "Alya!"
He found her further down the street, snatching a bouquet from a couple and smashing it.
"Alya, what's going on? This isn't you," Oliver said, grabbing her from behind to stop her.
"I said beat it, loser! I don't want anything to do with you!" Alya shouted, breaking free from his grip. In the process, Oliver dropped the box Mr. Dupain had given him.
"Oh, what's this?" Alya said, opening the box to find a small, heart-shaped chocolate cake. "Did you buy this for me?"
"Yeah, it was supposed to be a surprise," Oliver admitted.
"Well, here's a surprise," Alya sneered, smashing the cake onto Oliver's head, causing it to crumble and fall apart.
"Oh, that's it! Nobody treats my buddy like that!" Cloud exclaimed, sneaking out of the jacket and tossing a can under Alya's foot. She tripped and fell forward, landing on Oliver.
Wrapping his arms around her, Oliver held her down.
"Let go of me!" Alya struggled.
"Oliver, do something! Anything!" Cloud urged.
Doing the only thing he could think of, Oliver leaned in and kissed Alya. The effect of Dark Cupid's arrow dissipated immediately.
Snapping out of it, Alya looked around, dazed. "Uh… where am I?" Looking down, she saw that she was still on top of Oliver, who now had pieces of cake smeared on his face. "Uh, Oliver, what's with all the dessert on your head?" she asked, getting up.
While she was distracted, Cloud slipped back into Oliver's jacket.
"Long story, but this was supposed to be your Valentine's gift. It just… ended up on me," Oliver shrugged.
Alya smiled. "Oh, you." She reached up, took a piece of cake from his face, and ate it. "Mmm, chocolate—my favorite," she said, grinning.
Oliver smiled back, relieved to see his girlfriend returning to her usual self. "So, will I see you tonight?"
"You bet. See you in a bit." Alya leaned in, kissed Oliver, and ended up with some chocolate on her face. "Though, I'd recommend showering first," she teased, walking away.
"Thanks, Cloud. I owe you one," Oliver said.
"No one treats my friend like that," Cloud replied, smiling.
"Yeah, but something tells me someone's been Akumatized. Ladybug and Cat Noir might need backup," Oliver said, taking out his phone.
"Are you going to help?" Cloud asked.
"No, Leo is. He needs something to get his mind off this whole Valentine's Day card thing," Oliver said, texting Leo.
Meanwhile, at Leo's house, Leo was texting Nathaniel while Soll was looking over the Valentine letter that Leo had written to Marinette. Just then, Leo received Oliver's text.
Leo read the message, then glanced over at Soll, who was still examining the letter.
"Looks like Ladybug and Cat Noir need backup," Leo muttered under his breath.
Soll raised an eyebrow. "What? Are they in trouble?"
Leo nodded, quickly typing a response to Oliver. "Yeah, but I'm not sure if I'm ready for this. I still need to figure out how to handle… this." He gestured at the Valentine's letter, his face turning slightly pink.
Soll chuckled. "You've got more important things to worry about than your love letter right now. Besides, you'll have time to figure it out later."
Leo sighed, still conflicted. "Yeah, I guess you're right. I'll go, but I need to make sure this letter doesn't end up in the wrong hands."
He sent a final text to Oliver. "On my way."
Soll smirked. "You're gonna do great. Just don't let the Akuma mess with your head too much."
Leo grinned, pocketing his phone. "Thanks, Soll. Let's hope I don't mess up like I did last time."
Getting up, Leo stood in the middle of his room as Soll flew next to him, awaiting the command.
"Soll, flame on!" Leo called out.
Soll darted into his necklace, which began to glow brilliantly.
The camera zoomed in on the fiery glow of Leo's necklace as flames erupted outward, swirling around him in a mesmerizing dance.
First, the shot focused on his hands. Fiery sparks ignited at his fingertips, forming sleek black gloves. The flames traveled up his arms, leaving streaks of red and orange like living embers, transforming into twin black-and-red gauntlets that pulsed faintly with heat.
Next, the camera shifted to his face. A fiery trail swirled over his eyes, crafting a smooth black mask accented with glowing flames. His eyes flared a vibrant orange, and his hair briefly ignited before settling into a shimmering ember-like hue.
The flames cascaded down his body, consuming his everyday clothes and forming a fitted red suit. Golden and orange flame patterns danced across his chest, coalescing into the shape of a phoenix symbol that radiated heat like a living flame. More flames rose, creating a sleek red cape that flickered like fire caught in the wind, trailing dramatically behind him.
The fire continued its descent, shaping into flame-patterned boots that left glowing embers wherever he stepped. His entire suit shimmered in hues of deep red, orange, and flickering gold, enveloped by a fiery aura that seemed alive.
For the final touch, the camera zoomed in on his hands. Two swirling flames materialized, twisting and shaping into twin swords. As the flames dissipated, they revealed intricate weapons adorned with phoenix-feather details etched into the glowing metal.
With a burst of fiery sparks, Fireblaze twirled the swords effortlessly, striking a heroic pose with them crossed behind his back. His cape billowed in the heated air, and the space around him shimmered with an intense, fiery glow.
Meanwhile, on another part of town, Chloe was running for her life with Dark Cupid right on her tail.
"You can't outrun me," Dark Cupid taunted as Chloe turned a corner and crashed into a stand of flower pots.
"Help!" Chloe cried to the nearby people, but when they saw Dark Cupid fly in, they all ran away.
Chloe got up and turned to see Dark Cupid right behind her with an arrow ready.
"Happy Valentine's Day, Chloe. Now you'll get what you deserve," Dark Cupid grinned.
"My hair!" Chloe screamed, confusing him. "There's nothing worse than a bad hair day. First, Ladybug wrinkles my new jacket, second, you totally ruined my hair. Go ahead and change me. This day can't get any worse."
"I don't need to waste an arrow on you. Your heart is so dark and shriveled there's no room for love," Dark Cupid laughed, taking off into the air.
"How dare you?" Chloe muttered, looking up, not noticing where she was going until she bumped into Sabrina.
"Why are you just standing there? Help me up!" Chloe demanded, looking up to see Sabrina had been hit by one of Dark Cupid's arrows.
"You think I'd help someone as stuck up as you?" Sabrina grinned, snapping a picture of Chloe. "Wait 'til people see this," Sabrina cackled, running off as Chloe groaned.
Elsewhere, Ladybug chased after Cat Noir, hurling her yo-yo around his foot, causing him to fall. Before he could escape, she wrapped her yo-yo around him, tying him to a lamppost.
"No, no!" Cat Noir struggled to get away.
"I'm not looking forward to this either," Ladybug muttered as she leaned in to kiss him, but Cat Noir kept dodging. Grabbing his nose, she sighed. "I can't believe I'm doing this. Good thing Fire Blaze or frost fang isn't here to see this."
Just as she was about to kiss him, one of Dark Cupid's arrows flew past her. More arrows followed, forcing her to jump out of the way. The distraction freed Cat Noir.
Dark Cupid landed beside him. "How are you gonna fight both of us now, bug-eyes?" Cat Noir taunted as they fist-bumped.
"Cataclysm!" Cat Noir's ring glowed, black energy swirling around his hand.
"Looks like you could use some backup," a confident voice called from above.
Ladybug glanced up to see Fire Blaze leaping down from the rooftops. He landed gracefully beside her, drawing his twin swords in a fluid motion.
"Frost Fang sent me. Said you might need a hand," Fire Blaze said with a smirk.
"Perfect timing," Ladybug replied, her relief evident. "We've got a sticky situation here."
Dark Cupid scowled, his grip tightening on his bow. "Two against two, then."
Cat Noir charged with his Cataclysm, aiming directly for Ladybug. She narrowly dodged, grabbing his tail belt and using it to yank him backward. As he stumbled, she used him as a springboard, launching herself into the air.
"Lucky Charm!" she shouted, throwing her yo-yo skyward. A candy apple materialized in her hands.
"A candy apple? Seriously?" Fire Blaze raised an eyebrow.
"Trust me," Ladybug said confidently.
"Okay, Buggles," Fire Blaze teased, causing Ladybug to shoot him a raised eyebrow.
"Did you just call me Buggles?" she asked, her tone equal parts amused and incredulous.
Fire Blaze blushed slightly, scratching the back of his neck. "Uh, well... I figured if Cat Noir gets to call you 'My Lady,' maybe I could have a nickname for you too?"
Ladybug rolled her eyes with a faint smile. "We can talk about this later."
"Right, right. Fighting now," Fire Blaze stammered, gripping his swords.
Dark Cupid, growing impatient, fired arrow after arrow at Ladybug, but she deftly blocked them with her yo-yo. Meanwhile, Fire Blaze charged at Cat Noir.
"Sorry, kitty, but you're about to get burned!" Fire Blaze quipped, his swords moving with precision. Cat Noir barely dodged, swiping with his claws, but Fire Blaze countered, deflecting the strike and forcing Cat Noir to stumble back.
Ladybug seized the moment, hurling the candy apple at Dark Cupid. It splattered against his head, sticking firmly.
Dark Cupid growled, ripping it off, only to have it adhere stubbornly to his hand. "Ugh! What is this?"
"Looks like you're in a sticky situation," Ladybug teased.
Fire Blaze grinned, spinning his twin swords and locking them into a staff configuration. Flames swirled around the weapon as he created a blazing fire tornado. "Let's heat things up!" he said, sending the fiery whirlwind toward Dark Cupid, forcing him to drop the candy apple entirely.
Meanwhile, Cat Noir tackled Ladybug, pinning her to the ground. "Get her Miraculous!" Dark Cupid shouted, running to a nearby fountain to clean his sticky hands.
"With pleasure," Cat Noir sneered, reaching for her earrings.
"Sorry about this, Cat," Fire Blaze interrupted. "Solar Flare Burst!" His necklace glowed, and a miniature sun formed in his hands. He unleashed it, creating a blinding flash of light that dazed Cat Noir.
Ladybug used the opportunity to grab Cat Noir's face and kiss him, breaking Dark Cupid's spell.
"Huh? What am I doing here?" Cat Noir asked, blinking in confusion.
"No time for questions! The quiver pin—now!" Ladybug yelled, tossing Cat Noir toward Dark Cupid.
Cat Noir didn't hesitate. "Cataclysm!" he shouted, destroying the strap holding the pin. "Sorry, need that. Happy Valentine's Day," he quipped, tossing it to Ladybug.
"You shouldn't have—oops!" Ladybug fumbled and dropped the pin, accidentally smashing it. The Akuma inside flew out. "No more evil-doing for you, little Akuma. Time to de-evilize!" Ladybug threw her yo-yo, capturing the Akuma and transforming it back into a butterfly. "Bye-bye, little butterfly. Miraculous Ladybug!" She tossed the candy apple into the air, releasing a burst of magical energy that undid Dark Cupid's control over everyone in Paris.
Unfortunately for Chloe, this happened only after she vandalized her poster of Adrien, ruining it completely.
"Pound it!" Ladybug, Fire Blaze, and Cat Noir said in unison as Kim returned to normal.
"Hey, what happened to Frost Fang?" Cat Noir asked curiously.
"Guess the wolf had plans today," Ladybug said with a shrug.
"Yeah, Valentine's Day plans," Fire Blaze added as Ladybug's earrings beeped.
"Gotta go," Ladybug said, turning to leave.
"Wait, Ladybug, there's something I need to tell you!" Cat Noir called after her.
"If it's about the kiss, it was just to break the spell," Ladybug said quickly, trying to downplay it.
"Kiss? What kiss? I just wanted to say—" Cat Noir was cut off by his ring beeping.
"Cat Noir, your ring!" Ladybug pointed out.
"And your earrings," Cat Noir replied.
"Guess we better go before we turn into pumpkins," Ladybug said with a grin. She and Cat Noir dashed off in opposite directions.
"See you later, Cat!" Fire Blaze called, disappearing into the city.
At an unknown location, Hawk Moth fumed, pacing angrily. "Blasted Ladybug! Blasted Valentine's Day!" he growled, his fists clenched in frustration.
That night, Oliver and Alya were laughing about what had happened earlier that day.
"Wait, so Marinette wrote a love letter to Adrien but forgot to sign it?" Oliver laughed.
"It's the truth," Alya chuckled.
"If she had remembered that one small thing, Adrien would have definitely asked her to be his Valentine," Oliver said as he carried the dishes to the counter. Suddenly, cloud appeared under the dishwasher.
"Sorry, Cloud. I kind of want to enjoy the rest of the night with Alya. Do you mind?" Oliver whispered, gesturing to his bracelet.
"Go ahead," Cloud nodded as Oliver removed his bracelet, sending Cloud back inside.
"You know, you never did officially ask me to be your Valentine," Alya smirked.
"I kind of thought you already were my Valentine," Oliver smiled as he walked back to her.
"Right answer," Alya said, leaning in to kiss him on the lips, which he gladly returned. She pulled back slightly, her expression softening. "Oliver, I've been thinking... What if tonight we took another step in our relationship?"
"What kind of step?" Oliver asked, curious.
Alya leaned in close, whispering in his ear. "Want to be my first?" she said softly, her tone seductive.
Oliver turned bright red at the question but quickly pulled himself together. "Yes. I do. I want you," he said, his voice steady.
Alya smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I want you too."
Meanwhile, upstairs in his room, Leo could hear everything.
"Oh my god, this is going to go on all night," Leo groaned, covering his ears as Soll flew next to him, casually munching on a chili pepper.
"So, are you going to give that letter to Marinette tomorrow?" Soll asked, grinning.
"Well, I'm going to give it to her tonight," Leo said confidently, surprising Soll.
"Wow," Soll replied, raising a tiny eyebrow.
"Soll, flame on!" Leo called out. Soll flew into his necklace, which immediately began to glow. Leo transformed into Fireblaze and leapt out of his room window, ready to surprise Marinette.
As Fire Blaze parkours across the rooftops of Paris, the cityscape sparkles under the glow of the moonlight and the city lights. The energy of the song, *Cupid, pulses in his mind as he moves with the rhythm, the lyrics giving a playful narration to his midnight journey.
The camera pans to Fire Blaze launching off a rooftop, his twin swords strapped across his back. As the song begins to play in the background, he vaults over a ledge and slides down a slanted roof, the red glow of his transformation casting flickering shadows.
"La, la, la, la-la-la
La, la-la-la, la, la-la-la…"*
He smirks, the wind rushing past him as he leaps across a narrow alleyway, twisting mid-air before grabbing a pipe on the opposite wall. Pulling himself up, he flips onto another rooftop with a graceful landing.
"A hopeless romantic all my life
Surrounded by couples all the time
I guess I should take it as a sign…"*
Fire Blaze chuckles softly, his thoughts wandering to Marinette as he bounds over a chimney, using it as a launch pad to gain momentum. The streets below are alive with Valentine's Day decorations—hearts, roses, and couples walking hand in hand.
"I'm feelin' lonely (Lonely)…
Oh, I wish I'd find a lover that could hold me…"*
He picks up speed, running across the roof and vaulting over a series of staggered buildings, spinning through the air with precision. His feet land on the edge of a rooftop, and without missing a beat, he slides down a decorative spiral drainpipe to a lower roof, still humming the song.
The Eiffel Tower looms in the distance, its sparkling lights catching his eye as he sprints across another flat rooftop.
"But still, I want it more, more, more…"*
As the chorus swells, Fire Blaze flips over a glass canopy, his glowing flames leaving a fiery streak in the night sky. He lands on a narrow beam, balancing effortlessly as he continues toward Marinette's neighborhood.
Finally, the rooftops start to look familiar. He recognizes the terrace of Marinette's house just ahead.
Landing softly on her balcony, Fire Blaze takes a moment to catch his breath. The song fades slightly in his mind as he places his hands on his glowing necklace.
"Soll, Flame off ," he whispers. The fiery glow dissipates, and his transformation reverts, leaving Leo standing there, his heart racing for a different reason now.
He looks through the small glass window leading to Marinette's room, hesitant but determined. "Okay, Leo. You've got this," he mutters to himself, clutching the letter in his hand.
Taking a deep breath, he knocks softly on the balcony window.
As Marinette walked out, Leo quickly dropped the letter on her doorstep, then transformed into Fireblaze and leapt onto a nearby rooftop. After landing in an alleyway, he de-transformed back into his normal form and began walking away.
"Why didn't you just tell her?" Soll asked, hovering beside him.
Leo sighed, shoving his hands into his pockets as he walked. "Because it's not that simple, Soll. I can't just show up and say, 'Hey Marinette, I like you.' What if she doesn't feel the same way?"
Soll buzzed around his head, glowing faintly. "You're overthinking it again. You dropped a love letter, didn't you? That's already telling her how you feel."
"Yeah, but it's... safer this way," Leo muttered. "She'll read the letter, and if she's interested, she'll let me know. If she's not, well, I can pretend it never happened."
Soll sighed dramatically, zipping in front of Leo to block his path. "That's such a cowardly way of thinking! What happened to the brave Fireblaze who leaps into danger without hesitation?"
Leo paused and looked at Soll with a wry smile. "Leaping into danger and confessing feelings aren't the same thing, Soll. Fighting a villain? Easy. Telling someone you like them? Terrifying."
"Well, you better figure it out, Leo," Soll said, crossing his tiny arms. "Because at some point, you're gonna run out of rooftops to hide on."
Leo chuckled softly. "I'll cross that bridge when I get there. For now, let's just hope she likes the letter."
Soll shook his head but followed as Leo continued walking down the dimly lit street.