And so the end of another AU Month. It was fun, but now I’ll take a break from monthly fills but just until Inktober/Drawlloween/whatever I decide to do in October. Hope you all enjoyed!
And since most people responded well to my Mythology fills, here’s one more!
Series: Miraculous Ladybug
Rating: G
Genre: Fluff
Pairing(s): Adrinette
Summary: The Goddess of Spring doesn’t know where she is, but it’s beautiful. The sight that the God of the Underworld comes across, he’ll never forget it.
Warning: No beta!
She’d never felt this cold before and yet, she never expected the Underworld to be so bright. If she had to describe it, it honestly reminded her of the night sky given the way the crystals and gems inlaid into the massive chasm’s walls glowed. And though she could see so many, they were quite high up or at the fair end of the domain she walked through. It was eerie, but beautiful; quiet, but she could sense life somewhere within.
Without Tikki to guide her, Marinette decided to follow that trail towards whatever held life within it. She was cautious, of course, passing by the rivers that flowed through, and keeping quiet as she passed the almost incorporeal forms of mortals wandering the banks. Peering further down, she could even make out a line standing at a dock and there was a boat approaching. Though curious, she didn’t approach and decided to venture elsewhere.
Gliding herself over the river, she continued to walk on the other side, rather surprised how she found solace in this realm. But, if she thought about it, death was just relative to her powers over life. There was no reason she couldn’t be here when all she made would eventually come this way too. And she rather liked feeling alone for once. Even out in her fields, she always felt like she was being watched, but here, there was nothing like that. Walking on, she felt herself drawing closer and gasped when she did reach her destination.
Never had she’d seen such boundless field of asphodels before nor had she’d seen them shimmer like they did before her. And the dark grass growing around them only highlighted the twinkling leaves and petals like fireflies in the meadows above. Was this truly the Underworld? This was the realm where mortal souls came after death? She’d seen the way they lived above; was this terrible for them? Personally, Marinette would love to be here, and she didn’t miss the way the asphodels seemed to change color in her presence. One bloom in particular caught her eyes – how it glimmered with a little more pink to its bloom.
Smiling, she knelt down beside it to have a closer look.
“What are you doing here?”
He knew he must’ve startled the Goddess from the way her head whipped in his direction and he almost apologized. ‘Almost’ because he couldn’t summon the words from his lips as he gazed at her and how she shined with an ethereal light in his domain. Was that because of her light of life? Or was it the asphodels in the meadow surrounding them? Maybe it could be both, but no matter what, it seemed wrong of him to gaze upon her.
Adrien had to remind himself that she was the Goddess of Spring, and of all the places she should be, it wasn’t the Underworld.
“… Do you know where you are? This isn’t a place for a Goddess like you.”
“Mmm, no, I think I can be here.”
He didn’t expect her to say that and was thrown off again, just watching her quietly as she stood up, straightening out a few extra folds in her dress. Once she finished, she clasped her hands behind her back, humming. “I wasn’t stopped at the cavern’s mouth by the barrier. And aside from feeling cold, I don’t really feel weakened down here. Wouldn’t you say that’s a little strange?”
“I… might, but you are a Goddess still,” he said slowly, but was puzzled at the predicament. Most Gods, even beings like those over the domain of the Sky and Sea, had their powers dampened. The only exceptions tended to be those who delivered mortal souls to the gates. Shaking his head, he took a step back. “Oddity aside, you should return. If the others find you’re gone, who knows what they’ll do.”
“They can wait. It’s not like I don’t intend to go back,” she said, waving a hand. “Besides, I just found you. It would be rude if we didn’t talk like before.”
He blinked, confused at what she meant, but then felt his face burn. “Oh… uh, did you… did you see me?”
Drat, he should’ve turned invisible, but while he scolded himself, she stepped forward. He didn’t realize until she was right in front of him, too, almost making him jump back.
“You didn’t approach me when I was in my field… Why not?”
He didn’t know which was worse: being unable to answer because he didn’t know how, or being unable to answer because he was distracted. Few Gods dare be this close to him and they often worked with him, but this Goddess, as beautiful as the life she wove, was a hairbreadth away. His hands shook; he wanted to reach out to her, but remembering his black-tipped fingers, he could not. While being in the Underworld might not harm her, he definitely might.
“… I’m Adrien. It seems like you may not know, but I rule the Underworld. I’m not supposed to go out there unless called upon. Also, as Gods of the opposing domains, our interactions should be minimal at best.”
The Goddess’s lips parted – though, she wasn’t frightened; merely surprised it seemed.
“I thought they tried to keep the handsome Gods around mortals. Weird…”
“Handsome?” He felt his face heat up further. He wasn’t unfamiliar with compliments, but who was she to call him handsome when she was so radiant?
It seemed she noticed her error, or was embarrassed by her mouth getting away from her because after a beat, she covered her face with her fingers parted enough that he could see her eyelids close. “Oh, I’m sorry! I meant to just think that, not say it outloud…! Can we start over real quick? Hi, I’m Marinette, the Goddess of Spring…”
“… Hi, I’m Adrien, God of the Underworld.”
He could feel his heart beating in his chest. Curse such traitorous organ; he hoped she couldn’t hear it.
However, unbeknownst to him, Marinette’s heart beat in similar fashion.
What could this mean? A question they both had to ask themselves as they stood there, gazing at the other, with the sensation that things were right.
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i just wanna keep on waiting,
underneath the mistletoe.
tumblr month: @auyeahaugust
links: ao3 | ff.net
LADYBUG is the only one he's excited to see again.
It's understandable though, since he hadn't wanted to go to the Christmas party in the first place. As his father was busy planning for his trip abroad, it had fallen upon Adrien to spend time and speak with adults who really only cared about him because of his family's wealth and stature.
They're all sickly-sweet and overly-kind to him, though it's intensely clear that if he were anything other than an Agreste, they'd never even give him the time of day.
(It's exhausting to spend time with people who don't even really see you, after all.)
The last straw, however, is when he speaks with a particularly snooty lady who corners him to talk about fashion. The conversation is halfway decent, until she brings up the feathered hat in Gabriel Agreste's newest collection— one she says is, verbatim, "the worst thing she's ever seen featured in a runway," and that "it was clear a high schooler was the one who made it."
Adrien surprises both himself and the lady when he answers back.
"Actually," he starts. "That hat is an inspired and unique work that even my father was in awe of. She may only be a high schooler, but her sense of fashion and style has grown so far past that." Adrien looks at his conversational partner's outfit, then pauses. "And that's one thing about her that… not everyone can say about themselves."
The woman splutters, mutters a few words about disrespect and how his father will hear about this, as she almost stomps away from him.
It's weird that he doesn't feel that bad about it.
"You're going to get in so much trouble for that," someone suddenly speaks up, hands haughtily folded in front of her chest. Beside her is another girl, who stands much more calmly but holds the same level of intimidation.
"That was in poor character for you Adrien," she steps in, eyes still the slightest bit wider from surprise. "I had never expected such behavior to come from you," she continues, then slightly tilts her head to her partner. "I mean, I'd expect it from Chloé, but I thought you'd be able to control yourself better."
Ignoring the indignant 'hey!' from the blonde, Kagami looks at him in worry. "What did she say to you?"
"Just… she said something wrong," he finally replies. "And I corrected her."
"We're not here to correct people, Adrikins," Chloé points out. "We're here to listen and agree and make sure they still want to work with our parents."
Adrien sighs. She's right.
"It's not too late to apologize," Kagami says. "We cannot be any less than the perfect children anyone expects of us."
A brief silence encompasses the three, as the weight of the words crush upon them. It isn't easy being in their position; to always have to watch their behavior, growing up quickly in the elite circles of high society. It's strict and limiting, and Adrien can't imagine not having Chat Noir to let him freely express and be his true self.
He misses staying inside the suit more than he does outside of it.
Or maybe he just misses the girl he sees when he's in the feline's costume.
He knows what she'd do if she were in his position.
"I stand by what I said," Adrien finally says, somewhat determined. "She said something bad about a friend, and I'm not sorry for protecting her." He pauses, then adds as an afterthought: "It's what she would do."
Kagami looks shocked, but nods slowly. "An honorable choice."
"You're going to regret it," Chloé only says, though he can see the hint of a smile on her face. "But I think your superhero crush would be proud of you for doing it."
As if perfectly on cue, an all-too-familiar figure steps through the entrances of the hallway.
Dressed in her token red suit and mask, Ladybug comes in, an awkward (but bright) smile on her face.
She looks absolutely beautiful tonight.
(But she always looks beautiful to him— so nothing's really new.)
"Are you a witch or something?" Kagami whispers under her breath. "Your timing is impeccable."
"I have my Ladybug radar on at all times."
"What about your Ryuuko radar?"
Chloé scoffs, then smiles softly. "Is that even a question?"
At that, the two sneak off, likely to some empty hallway to have time for themselves.
Adrien doesn't mind, watching with awe as Ladybug kindly greets all the guests at the party.
(He thanks the lucky stars that Ladybug had accepted Mayor Bourgeois' invitation, even if she only plans on stopping by briefly.)
They gravitate toward each other, as Adrien is the first to spark conversation.
"It's great you're here Ladybug," he says, almost flustered. "I'm a great fan of yours."
"I'm a great fan of yours too— I mean, you're a model! Right? I've seen you on billboards and stuff… you know, while I'm going around and saving Paris!"
The fact that Ladybug, of all people, is a fan of his civilian self brings Adrien a rush of joy that he never thought possible.
"You have no idea how much you being a fan of mine means to me."
"Believe me, I feel the same way."
They smile at each other, and enter into pleasant conversation.
She's definitely Adrien's favorite conversational partner by far.
They spend a good hour or so simply talking to each other (much to the envy of the other guests), and Adrien feels as if he's on cloud nine.
It's only when they walk to the beverage table that they are interrupted, as Ladybug accidentally bumps into a vase of greenery, consequently getting some of it in her hair.
Adrien leans in to help her, only belatedly noticing how closely they're standing together as whispers seem to surround the two of them.
Then:
"Mistletoe!" Someone suddenly chants, pointing enthusiastically at the two of them.
The rest of the crowd joins in, as Ladybug panickedly waves her hands to say 'no'— though it only serves to intensify the situation. He picks at the red berry upon her head, then smiles softly.
"May I, milady?"
She looks at him with wide-eyed surprise, then nods slowly.
Her eyes close, visibly nervous.
And Adrien presses a kiss to her forehead, before picking out the plant in her hair.
He shows it to the rest of the guests, then smiles. "This is actually holly, not mistletoe." Adrien looks almost mischievous, as they dissipate in disappointment.
"Wait… if you knew it was mistletoe, then why did you kiss me?"
He shrugs, the teasing grin still on his face.
"Maybe I just wanted to."
.
.
ADRIEN comes to pick her up before they go to school.
It's become a kind of strange tradition between them, for him to stop by the bakery every morning and walk with her to Françoise-Dupont. Ever since he was permitted to go to classes on his own— a freedom long overdue, really— he explains that he's been making the most of it as much as he can.
Her parents don't really mind, after all.
In fact, they think Adrien's a good kid, and it helps that someone else is around to make sure their daughter gets to school on time. Sabine and Tom also think that the two of them are pretty cute together, but decide to keep that little factoid to themselves.
Marinette's late, as per usual, stumbling down into the shop as she's greeted by the sight of her boy friend— emphasis on the space— comfortably leaning upon the counter, talking animatedly with his parents about some random topic about the happenings of the previous day.
(Is it strange that she's already getting used to that sight?)
"Marinette!" He notices her first, brightening up as she awkwardly waves at him. He's snuggly wrapped up in a warm jacket and hat, holding a to-go cup of hot chocolate in his hands.
"Morning, Adrien," she says, before quickly planting a kiss to her parents' cheeks. "Mom, dad."
"What? No kiss for Adrien here?"
Marinette splutters, to the amusement of his family— and even Adrien, who quickly coughs into his hand to hide the laughter that threatens to escape his lips.
She can't even say anything, with Adrien finally taking pity on her and tapping on the chair beside him, gesturing for her to take a seat.
"I was just talking with your parents," he starts. "About your plans for the holidays."
"Yes," her mom chimes in, smiling brightly as she leans onto her father. "You know, poor Adrien here doesn't have any plans for Christmas Eve? Mr. Agreste is only coming back from New York on Christmas Day, and I can't imagine how lonely it's going to be…," she side-eyes her husband, then gently nudges him at his blissfully unaware expression.
"Ah, right!" He coughs, then speaks in an almost overly-dramatic way: "How sad for Adrien, if only there was something we could do for him… if only he had somewhere to spend the day…"
Both of Marinette's parents eye her with sad eyes, as she only rubs tiredly at her forehead.
Why are her parents like this?
She takes a side glance to see Adrien, who has a somewhat soft smile on his face. (If anything, he even looks hopeful that she'll say yes.
Which is strange, considering that he can probably spend his Christmas anywhere he so wanted— from all the most lavish Christmas parties and celebrations… maybe she just doesn't understand the rich.
And it's not like she wants to tell him no, either.)
"Are you okay with this?" Marinette finally decides to ask, turning to face him directly.
After years of being friends and spending time together, she's glad to see that her tendency to stutter and stammer (and ultimately fail as a human being) around him has lessened by quite a bit.
But as he sits only a few meters away from her, close enough for her to almost count how many eyelashes he has, she frankly becomes reminded of how little it lessened.
And how her crush on him has only grown exponentially since they first met.
He smiles at her, and she has to physically force down the blush threatening to take over her face.
"Of course I am," he says honestly, maintaining eye contact with her as he leans the slightest bit closer. Marinette can't look away. "There's no place I'd rather be."
She wants to stay in the moment— really, she does— but her parents watching from beside her with the hugest smiles she's ever seen is more than enough to sever the mood.
Coughing awkwardly, she steps back and slings her bag over her shoulder. "That sounds great, then!" She finally says, "Christmas with Adrien Agreste, no big deal, nope! I'd love that— I mean, not that I love you but…," she pauses, then sighs in resignation. "Just. We'd love to have you there."
He laughs lightly, then stands up as well, holding the cup with one hand. He bows lightly to her parents. "It's always nice to talk to you, Mr. and Mrs. Dupain-Cheng."
"Please, just call us mom and dad."
They wink, and Marinette decides against turning back so she doesn't have to see their faces. Instead, she grabs Adrien's hand and pulls him forward.
"Let's go," she says, only belatedly realizing that ohmygod they're holding hands and they fit so perfectly together do all fingers intertwine and meld this amazingly—?
They're one foot out the door, when her parents speak up:
"Ahem, Marinette," her mother says, forcing her to turn back.
"What?"
She only smiles, before gesturing for her to look up.
Oh, you've got to be kidding me.
At her exhausted expression, Adrien looks at where she's staring:
Consequently noticing the mistletoe hanging above the bakery door.
"Really?"
Her parents look excited.
"I'm not going to—"
Marinette turns to Adrien, fully expecting him to decline as well: until she sees his awkward (though almost… excited?) smile.
His fingers tighten their grip around her own, as he looks down at their intertwined hands.
"It's just a harmless tradition," he says quietly, some sound of amusement resounding from his tone. "A little holiday fun?"
She can't speak.
Is he serious?
He leans closer, and she closes her eyes in anticipation.
Then she feels the unmistakable touch of someone's warm lips.
Upon her hand.
Marinette's eyes flutter open, in time for her to see him press a kiss to her knuckles.
"What?" He asks, almost playful. "Did you expect anything else?"
She can't even speak.
(And thankfully doesn't notice the stifled laughter from behind the counter. Betrayal.)
"Come on, we're going to be late!"
He tugs her forward, as they disappear outside the bakery.
Marinette doesn't realize that Adrien's still holding her hand until they arrive at François-Dupont.
.
.
MARINETTE waits for him outside the balcony.
It's eleven-fifty in the evening as the snow starts to pile up, leaving Marinette to wish she'd put on more layers than her pair of pajamas and a cardigan around her small frame. Her nose is getting red from the cold, but she doesn't quite mind it as much as it should.
Because when she thinks about him, all Marinette can really feel is warmth.
Blonde hair, bright green eyes, and a smile that can bring even the sun to shame…
She's only distracted from her thoughts as a familiar suit of black starts making its way toward her.
He arrives almost clumsily at her balcony, holding a bright-red box in his hands as he furtively tries to hide it from her attention.
(It doesn't work.)
"Chat," she only says, then rolls her eyes. "You're late."
The first thing he does is bow down to her.
"Yes, and I'm so sorry, but I had some issues at home and—"
"Never mind that," she only says instead. "Do you have it?"
He smiles. "Of course I do," he starts, jokingly saluting at her. "Your local delivery man, at your service."
Marinette brightens up almost immediately as the words escape his lips.
"And it's really from him?" She asks, slowly taking the box into her hands.
It's quite small, fitting the palm of her hand, but Marinette knows that whatever's inside— the worth is immeasurable.
She hugs it close to her chest. "I can't believe he got me a Christmas present."
Chat Noir smiles at how excited the girl seems to be. "I— I know he's just really sorry that he couldn't give it to you himself."
"It's fine," Marinette only responds, the soft smile still on her face. "I know that he really wanted to go, and that's more than enough for me."
She recalls how apologetic Adrien had sounded over the phone, after telling her that he couldn't spend Christmas Eve with her family. (If anything, Marinette thought that he sounded more upset than she did about it—
Which is saying a lot, considering that she'd been looking forward to it as soon as he said he'd go.)
She tinkers with the box for a few more moments, then looks up at the superhero.
"Did he tell you what was inside?"
He ponders her question a bit longer than he should have. "Technically, no," he says, then pauses. "But I do know what it is."
"How do you know?!"
Chat Noir smiles lithely. "Let's just say that Adrien and I are similar in a lot of ways."
Marinette has to stop herself from snorting. "Please," she laughs lightly. "The two of you couldn't be any more worlds apart."
"... and what do you mean by that?"
"Adrien's the perfect type," she starts, then stops as she notices the superhero's almost hurt expression.
"So I'm not?"
"Nope," Marinette says easily. "But that's what I admire about you. You're imperfect and messy and chaotic, but you love and embrace your flaws, and even my own. It's so easy to be around you."
"Then Adrien is…?"
"He's kind," Marinette says carefully. "He's the kind of boy everyone dreams of, me included. But I always wished he'd drop his perfect interior in front of me and show his true self."
"The flawed self?"
"Yes. Because I'm sure I'd still love him just as much."
She smiles absentmindedly, then carefully starts to open the box.
Inside is a locket; gold, with a simple ladybug token hanging upon the chain.
Marinette belatedly notices the simple paper put inside the box:
To our Everyday Ladybug—
She turns the paper around.
And my ladybug.
Marinette isn't even given a moment to process the information as she looks away from the box, to notice none other than the boy in question standing before her.
Plagg floats next to him, a cautious expression on his face.
"Adrien, I— you— wait…" He tries to make calming gestures with his hand, giving her time to understand what's happening. "This can't be real…? You— are you really… and Plagg… wait, I thought I wasn't supposed to know your true identity…"
He looks absolutely nervous, and can't even get the words out.
Plagg speaks in his place:
"Sorry for the surprise, kid, but Tikki and I talked it over. With you being the guardian and all, it was only a matter of time before you two find out," then he sighs tiredly. "Adrien found out about your true identity by accident. And after that, he's been insistent on being the one to do the reveal."
"I— but— you— I'm— this is—"
The sudden buzz of Marinette's phone informs them that it's midnight.
"Merry Christmas, Marinette," Adrien finally says, voice soft as he takes her hands. "I love you."
He leans closer to her, as she suddenly stops him.
"Wait— but a kiss— it's too soon, and so out of nowhere…"
Adrien pauses thoughtfully, then smiles; almost mischievous.
He retrieves a pen from his pocket, then takes the box from her hands:
The word 'our everyday ladybug' is crossed out, as a simple word proudly displays itself in black, bold, lettering.
He holds it above their heads.
MISTLETOE.
"Is this enough of a good reason?"
Marinette can't stop herself from laughing. "You couldn't even draw it?"
"I'm not the artist," he only says. "That's your job."
"Then what's yours?"
"I provide the quality humor and flirting, I think."
She has to stop herself from rolling her eyes.
"Fine then," Marinette starts, leaning close to him before…
Pressing a kiss to his cheek.
"The cheek?!"
"You didn't even get real mistletoe. So you don't get the real thing, either."
He hmphs, before his eyes suddenly twinkle. "But if I get real mistletoe, then I'll get a real kiss?"
"As long as it's still Christmas, then sure."
"Great," he grins. "Twenty-four hours then."
.
.
CHAT NOIR looks at her for confirmation.
The mistletoe stands proudly above the two of them as the purified akuma flies away into the night, easily forgotten by the rest of the Parisians.
All they care about— and all he cares about is the girl held in his embrace, as she looks at him with eyes that he can't at all decipher.
(Or maybe he can: but it's too terrifying to think of what things could be if he were wrong.)
From the background, Alya holds her phone as the scene is livestreamed to all the families and friends celebrating their Christmas together.
He leans in close to her, hesitant, as if asking a question.
The outsiders can't make it out, but he whispers in her ear:
"That's real mistletoe," he points out. Then slowly: "Are you sure you're ready for this?"
Ladybug doesn't say yes.
She doesn't say no, either.
Instead, she only smiles, leans forward:
Then kisses him.
Alya drops her phone as she throws her fist in the air, and the quiet chill of the city is instantaneously broken with a series of loud celebratory cheers and cries for celebration.
Everyone calls it one of the greatest Christmas miracles of all time—
And neither Ladybug nor Chat Noir can correct them.
In which I do a very short fill for today because I’m working on finishing a short chaptered story on AO3, but now I sit and contemplate what to do for Thirty-One. How unfortunate, but this means the end of AU Yeah August for now so let’s get some fun suggestions for the last, yes?
Series: Miraculous Ladybug
Rating: G
Genre: General
Pairing(s): Slight Adrinette
Summary: Marinette has a roommate. She’s never met them really because their schedules clash, but that changed tonight.
Warning: No beta!
Marinette had a roommate… she thinks.
Well, no, she does, but she’d never met them face-to-face.
Their personal lives and schedules somehow kept them from encountering one another somehow – a feat she thought impossible, but they’re gone in the morning and already sequestered away in their room by the early evening. At the very least, she did know their name.
Adrien Agreste – it was familiar, but she couldn’t honestly put her finger on it. Maybe she’d read it somewhere before or they’d met? But she couldn’t remember; her classes had her mind in a fog.
It wasn’t like they (was it he? It would’ve been nice to establish pronouns) were a terrible roommate that she had to worry about so it was a thought she only lingered on sometimes like when she came across a stray blonde hair or questioned why there was a second tube of toothpaste in the bathroom.
Things probably would’ve remained this way too if it wasn’t for her afternoon class being canceled one day by chance. Sitting in the living room, she focused on her laptop, deciding to get some class assignments done early and leave herself with ample time for studio finals when she heard the door open. Raising her head and an eyebrow, she froze upon seeing the blonde man enter with his eyes focused on his phone. Aside from looking slightly disheveled from the day, he was drop-dead gorgeous.
He was a few steps passed her when he too seemed to realize another body was present in his current space, his green eyes widening as he froze.
“Uh…” they both started at the same time only to immediately forget what words were.
She'd only moved in that day, after a haphazard decision to do so for independence and freedom in her own work. (Though the whole Ladybug-and-unexplained-disappearances thing when living her parents was a huge factor, too.)
Scratch that, it's probably the onlyfactor.
If it weren't for her parents' growing suspicion and concern due to her heroic escapades, Marinette would still choose to stay at home and with them; or at the very least, stay nearby.
She had to move a good distance away— a bus ride or so, in order to rationalize with her parents why she had to move out. ("But why do you have to leave?" "Moving would be easier for me to do my work! It cuts down on transportation time a lot.")
Never mind that as Ladybug, she can move from one side of Paris to another in mere minutes.
The apartment itself is quite modest, with enough space for her to live comfortably (but not much for anything else). Nino, Alya, and Adrien had helped her move in all her stuff, though quite a few were still left untouched inside their boxes.
It's more a reflection of Marinette's need for privacy than their helpfulness as friends, though— since a hefty amount of the items in those containers hold her carefully-curated collection of Adrien Agreste collectibles, limited edition items, and posters.
So. Many. Posters.
(It's been years, but her crush on him has only grown all the more intensely. She's grown out of her stuttering phase, fortunately, but the butterflies in her stomach don't fade, either.)
Exhaustedly, Marinette lies on her mattress.
They only left an hour ago… is it okay to miss them this much?
She's not accustomed to the quiet, especially with the bustling energy of her family and the customers that arrive for their daily dose of caffeine in the early mornings. The lack of aromatic scents of freshly-baked breads and desserts as she lays down is a stark reminder that she's not home anymore.
Marinette sighs to herself.
Maybe she's lonely.
Just a little bit.
It's in that exact moment someone comes knocking on her balcony door. The balcony is a good amount smaller than the one she had at home, only really enough for a few plants and one person—
Or one disguised cat-themed hero.
His smile's bright as she pushes away the curtain and opens the sliding door.
Chat Noir doesn't even wait for a verbal invitation; he walks inside, looking around in wonder.
"Wow, you've already unpacked a lot," he starts, noticing her sewing machine set up on a desk nearby. "You already took it out?"
An eyebrow raised. "Yeah… why?"
"I thought you were setting up your sewing area last," he starts, before absurdly coughing to himself at her suspicious glance. "I mean, considering that it's the only one without a designated space… I thought you'd do everything else first, because it's common sense, right?"
Hmmm.
"That was the original plan," she finally admits. "But I have commissions to work on, so I decided to keep it there. Temporarily, at the very least." Chat Noir nods, before Marinette gestures at him. "So… how did you find out about here?"
"What do you mean?"
"My apartment?" She asks, leaning upon the door frame. "I don't recall telling you where I was moving."
"Oh…," he pauses, sifting through her boxes. "Uh, superhero, remember? Ladybug and I make it a point to know where everybody is at all times. To protect the citizens of Paris and all that!"
Well, that's not even the slightest bit true, but it's not as if Marinette can rebuff him.
So, she nods in fake understanding instead and shrugs.
"That doesn't explain what you're doing here, though?"
Chat Noir smiles. "I figured that you'd meowss the company. You moved pretty far from your friends." He sounds almost sad at that revelation, and Marinette almost feels sorry.
(What would he be so sad for? It's not like she moved far away from him.
Though she wouldn't really know, if she did.)
"Well, I can't say that I don't appreciate you showing up." She smiles, eyes bright.
It's a sweet moment.
Until:
"You can help me unpack everything else."
(They spend the rest of the night unpacking things, but Marinette insists that one box be left alone. When Chat Noir accidentally sees a peak of an all-too-familiar model's poster flap out from its cover…
he thankfully decides against mentioning it.)
.
.
ii.
Chat Noir makes it a point to regularly stop by her apartment.
(Even at times he should be busy and on patrol— though more often than not, Marinette can't find it in herself to be angry at him.)
She still doesn't see her friends and family that often, but being with him, she finds, lessens the loneliness a lot; to the point that she finds herself more fulfilled, if anything.
At first, she figured that he'd get tired of him— seeing him both as Ladybug and Marinette, and so often, but it's the complete opposite. They talk about and do everything together, with her learning so much more about him than she'd ever expected to.
If anything, Chat Noir is good and fun company, even though she'll never admit it to his face.
It's a few months into their arrangement of random meetings when Marinette makes the mistake of going to her apartment straight home as Ladybug.
"… milady? What are you doing here?"
She pauses as she reaches for the balcony door, belatedly noticing that Chat Noir follows right after her. He's perched on the balcony railings, staring at her with confusion and almost suspicion.
Oops.
"Chat?! What are you doing here?" She points at him accusingly, almost stumbling backward. "I thought you said you were going straight home after the akuma!"
"Yeah…," he starts, eyebrows knitting together. "But I always stop by Marinette's to check on her if she's doing okay. She just moved away recently, and I just want to make sure she doesn't feel lonely or sad or anything." He pauses, realizing how his statement may sound. "I mean, speaking as a superhero, you know… I can't risk her getting akumatized! Especially since she's Multimouse and all…"
"That's actually… pretty sweet of you Chat."
He smiles softly, before suddenly narrowing his eyes. "That doesn't explain what you're doing here, though?"
She halts, evidently caught off-guard. "I— uh—"
"Ladybug… visiting Marinette… in her apartment… that means…"
"Wait, don't connect the dots—"
"Marinette's planning a surprise for me!"
"I'm not—
Wait. What?"
She's never seen Chat Noir look so excited.
"I knew she was planning something for me! You know, last time I came over, we were talking about birthdays, and I told her it was some time around this month… is that what the two of you were planning all this time? Ack, this is pawsitvely exciting my tails on end!"
Ladybug wonders how he can be so smart but so dumb at the same time.
(Well, whatever the case— it works out well for her.)
Ladybug smiles. "You know I can' tell you that!" Her voice is a notch higher than usual, as she playfully and awkwardly punches his shoulder. "… pal! Now go home and let us plan your surprise, okay?"
"Can I get a hint?!"
"Uh. Cats." She stops, almost similar to the way a robot would if they were to malfunction. "Yup. Cats. Like you. Now that's all!"
She pushes at him, before he finally relents and leaves the balcony.
The next day, Chat Noir comes to Marinette's apartment, and sees his surprise:
A cat-themed party.
Marinette looks absolutely exhausted, but seeing Chat Noir's bright smile— she doesn't quite mind it.
"Happy birthday, kitty: however old you are, and whenever your birthday really is!"
They spend the rest of the night celebrating together.
(Adrien's birthday happens a week later, and she's surprised to find out that he wants to spend it treating her out, just the two of them. She wonders why he doesn't want a birthday party, and he explains that he already had one— and nothing could top how perfect it was.
They spend the day going around together, and end it as he drops her off at her apartment. Alya and Nino insist it's a date.
Marinette vaguely wonders to herself if it was.)
.
.
iii.
Chat Noir stops by when Adrien doesn't.
Marinette rereads the text over and over again:
I'm so, so, sorry, Mari. My dad's not letting me out until I finish all the work I do. Let's hang out another time, okay? Miss you, Alya, and Nino a lot!
She sighs, walking over to turn off the oven. The scent of passionfruit macarons makes their way around the apartment, as she carefully puts them into a container. Her outfit, a nicely-fitted red dress— the one Alya calls the first date dress, shines in the room light.
It's a strong inner debate as to whether Marinette should call her friends, but she ultimately decides against it.
(It'd be mean to burst into their lives with last-minute plans, and she especially doesn't want to disappoint them with the news that her dinner-with-Adrien-and-confess-your-love plan had failed spectacularly— before she could even do anything about it.
Marinette figures that she'll just disappoint them later on.)
She raises the container of sweets to her face. "So, what should I do with this…?"
"I'd like to try them."
She almost drops the macarons as a sudden voice bounces off the walls, clutching her heart in evident surprise. "Chat? What the heck, don't scare me like that! How long were you standing there?"
He looks almost sheepish. "A few minutes… I tried knocking, but you seemed so distracted in your thoughts so I just came in." His expression turns concerned. "Are you okay?"
She shrugs. "Just a little upset, but nothing new, really."
"I'm sorry."
Marinette shakes her head. "What are you sorry for? It's not your fault." She sighs to herself, before offering the container to him. "Anyway, do you want to try this? I'm not sure if you'll like it because it's passionfruit, but…"
"Are you kidding me, I love passionfruit! It's my favorite flavor!"
He beams, before quickly taking a bite of the snack, and breathing dreamily to himself. "These taste amazing." Then, a pause. "But are you sure I should eat this? Didn't you make it for someone?"
Marinette laughs softly, then walks over to sit on the couch, gesturing for him to come next to him.
"Chat, do you love anyone?"
The question is upfront and straightforward, and he's evidently surprised by it.
After the initial shock, though, he smiles to himself. "Of course I do. She's the purrfect girl, andI think about her a lot more than I should," he says, staring at her for a good moment.
Marinette doesn't know how to describe how his stare makes her feel.
"I love someone too," she finally admits.
The words hang in the air, and Chat Noir doesn't know what to say.
"He's a lucky guy," he finally breathes, a sad look in his eyes.
"You'd think," she laughs to herself, almost bitterly. "But I don't think he feels the same way, or if he ever will."
"What do you mean— who wouldn't fall in love with you?! You're kind, and sweet, and pretty on a regular day but tonight you're absolutely stunning…"
"Haha, thanks kitty," she mutters, before holding on to her dress. "I even dressed up for him today…"
A quiet pause.
"Wait… the guy you were supposed to meet today is the one you're in love with?'
She nods silently. "Adrien Agreste. He's a good friend of mine, it's just that my feelings are something so much more than that…"
Marinette isn't looking at him directly, so she's surprised to notice him abruptly stand up.
"Sorry, I have to go."
"Chat? I'm sorry if this was too much but…"
"I'll see you around, Marinette."
It's the lack of a playful nickname that gets her.
Almost frozen, she somehow manages to nod.
And Chat Noir disappears into the night.
.
.
iv.
The next time they patrol, Chat Noir tells Ladybug they need to talk.
"Are you sure I can't reveal my true identity to anyone?"
Her answer is instantaneous. "Of course. It's too risky." She pauses, then almost careful: "Why do you ask?"
(Things have become more awkward since the last time Chat Noir went to her apartment; when he just left her without explanation and stopped showing up completely. They still meet as heroes, but it's become much more strained since then.)
He sighs to himself. "It's just… I'm in love." Chat Noir pauses, then immediately backtracks. "Not with you, of course. Not anymore. I respect that you love someone else, and I've finally fallen for someone different. And I don't want to reveal too much but… she loves me back."
Marinette feels happy for him, of course, but can't quite explain why her stomach churns uncomfortably at the idea of him being in love with someone else.
"Then, what's the problem?"
He laughs bitterly to himself. "She fell for my civilian identity."
Oh.
"So you want her to know you're the same person?"
Chat Noir pauses for a moment, as if in thought, then shakes his head. "No," he finally says. "I just want to be sure she loves the entire me, and not just the perfect character I keep up in real life. I want her to fall in love with Chat Noir, too. Because this identity's just as much a part of me as Adr— as my civilian self is."
Silence, again.
"As a superhero and the Guardian, I cannot stress the importance of keeping your identity secret. Even if it is someone you love." He winces, and she presses on. "But as your friend, I want you to be happy, kitty. So, do what you must." She smiles at him. "I know you'll do what's right."
The superhero smiles back, then abruptly gets up.
"Then if you don't mind, milady… I have somewhere to be."
By the time Chat Noir arrives at Marinette's apartment, she's already home.
"What are you doing here, Chat?"
"… for two things. Do you mind if I come in?"
She doesn't exactly willing to do so, but lets him in anyway.
"The first part is an apology." He looks at her, evidently ashamed of himself. "I'm sorry I just left like that back then. I shouldn't have left without an explanation, and it was one of the worst things I've ever done. I'm so sorry."
"As you should be," she only says, before sighing to herself. "And the second part?"
"An explanation."
"Better keep it short."
"I can summarize it in three words."
She looks up at him, suddenly intrigued. "Which is?"
"I love you."
(The dots connect themselves even without Marinette willing them to, and she catches on before Chat Noir even realizes the situation they're in.
Knowing about her address, his birthday celebrations, his love for passionfruit, the mysterious person he was in love with—is in love with, and his abrupt disappearance after her confession…
How did she not realize it before?)
The faces of two people Marinette love dearly start blending into one.
She never knew it would be possible to feel so much for one person.
Marinette starts laughing, tears in her eyes, as everything becomes that much clearer.
She smiles.
"I love you too—
Adrien."
(He almost falls off the balcony.
Fortunately, however— this time there's somebody around to catch him.)
.
.
v.
He knocks on the correct door, this time around.
And with him, a ton of boxes and containers that tower almost menacingly around his figure.
"Sorry I had to use this door," he starts. "But my stuff wouldn't fit through the balcony."
Marinette laughs, before putting her hands to fold in front of her chest.
"That's a lot of boxes," she observes. "I don't recall you having that much of a problem with my stuff back then."
"That's because I only stayed the night."
"And now?"
He smiles, then presses a sudden kiss to her lips.
"Hopefully, I'm staying the rest of my life."
She huffs at the sudden surprise, then smiles back softly.
In which I come up with another AU for Final Fantasy IX and find myself sinking into the rabbit hole for another story most of the day. Faaaak...
Series: Final Fantasy IX
Rating: G
Genre: Fluff, General
Pairing(s): Gardane/Zidah
Summary: While most of Tantalus entertains the crowd, Sarah (Garnet) is tasked with luring the Prince back to the ship.
Warning: No beta! Role-swap AU!
If there was one issue with going in disguised as a guard, it was her horn. Not that Sarah would dare do anything to rid it; it was the last connection she had with her true home where ever that could be. Moving her hair just right, it hid it just enough before she stepped out of the Guardhouse with Blank, looking left and right.
Her task was simple: find Prince Zidane and put some sleeping potion into his tea cup. From there, Blank was the muscles to get him onboard the Prima Vista. He’d left at some point during their performance, but if she encountered him, she should be able to charm him off-guard – long enough to knock him out.
Hurrying up the stairs to find his chambers, she was startled when the double door burst open, a black-robed figure rushing her way only to stop before they could collide. What a strange garb, but she tilted her head. Sarah couldn’t see their face, but the strands of blonde hair…
“Uh, could you please let me pass?” they said, tugging their hood a little lower with a gloved hand.
Crossing her arms, Sarah considered the question, but then stepped closer to try examining their face. Of course, they did their best to turn their head and eyes, but she caught teal eyes quickly looking away.
“Is there something on my face, Miss?”
“Hm? Oh, no… but…”
“… ‘But’?”
“You look like ‘the one’, you know?”
“I’m… sorry. The one what?”
“You know, ‘the One’. The man of my dreams! Someone I’ve wanted to meet since I was a child.”
“Are you mocking me?”
“Not at all, I’m being serious…!” She beamed as she noticed the poor boy’s face turn pink. Obviously, he was not used to this sort of flattery. Giggling and taking a step closer, it was her chance to go in for the capture. “Hey, if you come with me, we can talk more abou--”
“Sarah, what’s taking so long?”
Blank’s voice startled her and apparently startled the cloaked boy, enough that his hood fell back a little. Just as she had suspected; one look and she recognized those eyes and soft-angled face. Through the feathering blonde hair, the panicked, wide-eyed look sent in her direct had her freeze, bewildered because she could swear there was fear, but why?
“I…” he gasped, but then shook his head, rushing past her. “I must go!”
“Ah!”/”Hey!”
Catching her footing before she fell over, Sarah raced after him, pausing on the stairs besides a fallen Blank. His head whipped back and forth, finally stopping on Sarah, “Who the hell was that!?”
“Blank! That was the Prince! Come on!”
“Seriously?!?”
Sarah hurried after the Prince retreating in his black cloak, wondering again why the boy was running like this at all. Did he somehow find out about them? Was he sneaking out himself? Whatever the reason was, she was going to catch him and find out.
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ADRIEN gets an apartment in a strangely-named building called Liberty .
It's not his first choice, of course; though his current life choices lead him to no other option.
Well, that's not quite fair: Chloé offers to let him stay at Le Grande Paris— "for free," she explains, "I'll just have to tell daddy he can't rent the penthouse anymore."
But the last thing he wants is to depend on someone else after finally getting his freedom, so all Adrien says is "thank you", and declines.
Marinette's kind enough to help him go apartment-hunting, but her quirky and all-around strange (but endearing!) personality leads her to recommend Adrien the strangest buildings and landlords in town.
Anarka Couffaine, the landlady of Liberty, is no exception.
(The opposite, if anything else.)
She's a huge personality for a woman her age— something that visibly throws him off-balance. Adrien's become all but too used to stiff and strict adults, monitoring his every word and movement to assure that he's at his perfect behavior at all times.
A woman who he can only really describe as loud: from the volume of her voice to her unique sense of clothing and visible love for (over)-accessorizing is not at all something he's used to.
"Welcome to Liberty!" She tells him, bursting with life and energy. "You must be Marinette's friend, then?"
He winces, then smiles awkwardly. "Yeah, it's Adrien Agreste…"
"Agreste!" She says in surprise, eyes widening almost cartoonishly. "You're that young model everyone's obsessed with nowadays, aren't you? I'm not sure why I didn't recognize your face earlier— one of my kids is absolutely head over heels for you."
He laughs, though it's more politeness than anything else. "I'm flattered," he starts, before shaking his head. "And I don't believe I'm as big of a deal as you said I was, but I did work as a model, way back when."
She raises an eyebrow. "Did?"
"It's just… it wasn't my true calling," he fumbles for the right words to say, unsure of how to word it properly (especially to someone he's only just met). "I wanted the freedom to choose my own path, so I left. Which is kind-of why I'm here, I guess…"
Anarka's smile turns kind, and she pats him comfortingly on the shoulder.
"A search for freedom, then," she repeats, before grinning brightly. "You've definitely come to the right place! Here in Liberty, our crew is filled with all kinds of individuals trying to find themselves; without the rules or strictness to keep anyone down. To be true to yourself, without any limitations! That's what I want this building to be; a home for those creative souls to fulfill their deepestdesires and potentials."
She continues on for a good minute in a lengthy speech about freedom and discovery, and Adrien's surprised to find himself listening with rapt attention.
Freedom to find himself?
That's exactly what he needs.
When she finishes her long spiel, Anarka is greeted with a genuine smile and a hand offered for her to take.
"I'd love to live here, if you'd have me."
She doesn't even hesitate, joyfully taking his arm and giving it a firm shake.
"Nice to have you on-board with us!"
.
.
Adrien doesn't have a lot of things to move in.
And there isn't that much space for things, in the first place.
The apartment is modest, with general provisions for all his basic necessities… and not much else. If he had to compare things to his old room, the apartment was only the tiniest bit larger than his personal basketball court— almost nothing compared to the entire third floor he owned back at home.
Yet, even with the small amount of physical space, Adrien has honestly never felt so free.
He settles down on the bed, then shuts his eyes.
It's been a tiring day, after all, and all he wants to do is rest.
So, he tries.
Until the unmistakable sound of a guitar twang echoes through the room.
Adrien gets up with a start, only belatedly realizing that the sound isn't coming from his own apartment.
It's coming from the apartment next door.
He tries to ignore it, placing the pillow around his ears to cover the noise.
But the notes keep on coming.
Twang. Twang. Twaaaaaaang.
Then a few chord progressions, a thoughtful pause, then twang again.
If Adrien cared to listen, he'd realize that the tune isn't all that bad.
But no, he's sleep-deprived and cranky and about ready to fight someone if he doesn't get his eight hours of beauty rest.
(He may not be a model anymore, but he still takes care of his skin and body religiously.)
The sounds suddenly stop, and Adrien heaves a relieved sigh.
Finally!
Then, the sound of someone plugging something in. A bump, static, then the unmistakable sound coming from an electric guitar.
Please, no.
The mysterious neighbor starts playing various notes and melodies, as Adrien helplessly tries to ignore it.
Needless to say, he doesn't get any sleep that night.
.
.
He tries to get in contact with Anarka the next day, but she tells him that she's not around.
Instead, she gets him into contact with his son.
"He usually takes care of business in Liberty while I'm not around," she explains through call. "He's pretty responsible, if I do say so myself. A good kid. So I'll give you his number and— Jagged, don't you dare— I'm sorry, I need to go, but I'll see you around, yeah? Luka's in my office, just knock on the door and he'll let you in— ohmygod are you SERIOUS— I have to go now, bye!"
Luka Couffaine, then?
He makes a note to remember it.
.
.
Adrien knocks on the door carefully, and after hearing a muffled, "come in", goes inside.
Only to be greeted by the most handsome man he's ever met.
(Which is saying a lot, because Adrien regularly used to work with models, but he— he is on his own league entirely.)
Casually leaning upon the desk, Luka is definitely the textbook definition of what would one find if they were to search for attractive male on the dictionary. He gives off a completely confident and mature atmosphere, which clashes with Adrien's own more childish and (to some extent) immature vibes. The landlady's son smiles at him, and Adrien can almost feel his cheeks threaten to burst from the sudden heat.
Is it hot in here, or is it just him?
Me.
The weather .
He's spiraling.
"You must be Adrien Agreste, then?" He asks, voice smooth and husky and everything good all at the same time. "Our new tenant."
"Yeah."
Yeah. How intricate of you, Adrien.
Luka's smile grows wider. "So, adjusting to life here at Liberty okay? It can be hard for newbies the first few weeks," he pauses, then takes a moment to observe the overly-prim-and-proper posture of his conversational partner. "Some, more so than others."
He wants to protest, but can't quite get the words out.
Instead, he gives up.
"I— I have a concern."
"Hmm? What is it?"
"It's about my neighbor."
Luka pauses at the revelation, then smiles at him. "Ah, the one who lives in Room 202."
"Yes!" Adrien responds, almost a little too loudly. "Have you had problems with them before?"
He shrugs offhandedly, the smile still on his face. "He's caused his fair share of issues. What'd he do to you?"
He.
So, the musical maniac was a male.
"He won't stop playing! The whole night it was just twang twang twang, and I could barely even get any rest! You know, sleep is important; it ensures the body is prepared for the day and not to mention does absolute wonders for your skin—"
"So he ruined your beauty sleep?"
The younger boy huffs indignantly. "He ruined my regular sleep. I wouldn't mind him practicing in the morning or afternoon, but can he stop playing at night? It's two in the morning and I can still hear that damned melody in my head, like it's not even that good—"
"You don't think it's any good?"
Adrien's visibly thrown off by the sudden interruption. "I'm sorry?"
Luka repeats himself. "The melody? It wasn't good?"
"I, uh, I guess it was okay?" He corrects, unsure. "Speaking from a music theory perspective, the chord progressions blend together well, but it could be improved on…"
"What do you suggest?"
He's surprised to hear the seriousness in Luka's tone. "Uhm… maybe instead of hmmmhmmmhm, he could do hmmhmmhmhmmm?" Adrien pauses. "If that makes sense. But that's not my concern, my concern is—"
Luka repeats the tone to himself, then hums thoughtfully. "It does sound better."
"Yeah, but—"
"I need to go," the older boy suddenly says, getting up.
"Wait, but I still have an issue, so if you could…?!"
"Sorry," Luka smiles, turning back from the doorframe. "I'll be sure to relay your issue. But this is important, okay? I'll see you around!"
He almost runs out of the office, leaving Adrien to himself.
Like mother like son, then?
.
.
As Adrien readies to go back to sleep, he's ecstatic to find that there's no sound coming from the other apartment.
Thank you, Luka Couffaine.
He climbs to bed, shuts his eyes, then…
Knock.
Damn it.
Grumbling to himself, Adrien walks toward the door, then almost doubles over as he sees who's at the interest.
"Luka, what are you— I, is there any issue I can help you with?"
(Landlord, who?)
He laughs, then nods toward his apartment.
"Can I come in?"
"Uhm, I… why?"
(Rude, rude, why is he being so rude?)
Luka doesn't seem bothered.
Instead, he moves his arm to reveal something Adrien hadn't noticed at the start:
A blue-and-white electric guitar.
Oh, so he's a guitarist.
That's pretty attractive.
…
Wait.
"You're resident 202?!"
Luka nods, a hint of a smile still on his face.
"Yup. And I need your help."
"With what?"
"That melody," he starts casually. "You made it so much better. Want to hear?"
No, he does not want to hear. He wants the annoying guitar boy to leave his apartment and let him to go to sleep and—
Oh.
That actually sounds pretty good.
Luka hums along to the guitar, and Adrien pauses.
He's… not that bad.
Noticing his almost-smitten expression, Luka smiles. "Want to help me out with the rest of the song?"
The words escape Adrien's mouth before he even realizes it.
"Yes."
Huh.
"Wait… but on one condition."
Luka's eyes are almost smiling with him.
"Name it."
"No practicing in the evening."
"If you practice with me in the afternoon, then sure."
"… fine."
"Great!"
.
.
Working with Luka isn't easy. He's easily-distracted, gets lost in the music, and has a tendency to rely more on his feelings and instincts than objective fact and musical theory.
But his expressions come to life when he plays, and it's almost mesmerizing.
Adrien belatedly realizes that peace and quiet may be a little too boring, in the first place.
Sometimes, the road traveled is merely the one walked... also, have some more mythology!AU since people seemed to enjoy it!
Series: Miraculous Ladybug
Rating: G+
Genre: Fluff, General
Pairing(s): Adrinette
Summary: Marinette shouldn’t leave her field, but the sight of that blonde-haired God in black lingers on her mind.
Warning: No beta!
Marinette didn’t see him again after the first day of Spring and all she could wonder was why. Obviously, they had been another God, and yet, they had stayed back beside the trees. It was so peculiar to her especially since her mother always warned against her being alone, saying things like the other Gods would immediately take her away the instant they saw her.
But she was still here, in the field with her ladybugs, unapproached and untouched.
He had walked away and she recalled catching the briefest look at his face.
Why had he seemed so sad?
Looking down at her hand as the usual ladybug landed light upon her finger, she raised the precious insect close to whisper, “Tikki, please, show me where that dark God has gone.”
Little Tikki’s antennae twitched and she hesitated, standing still on her Goddess’s finger. Marinette pursed her lips a bit.
“Tikki, is he a vile God?”
The little bug’s antennae shook.
“Then why do you hesitate? Is it because of mother?”
The antennae moved up and down. The Spring Goddess sighed, shaking her head, “Don’t worry yourself over mother. Besides, other Goddesses have already met the other Gods yet I have not.”
Tikki’s antennae fell and the tiny creature did seem to sympathize. They sat barely a few seconds in silence before the spotted shell upon the bug’s back opened, revealing her glossy wings. Taking off, she hovered in wait and Marinette rose to her feet, beaming. “Thank you, Tikki. Please, lead me on.”
She knew the way in which the God had fled, but beyond the trees, Tikki had to guide her. It wasn’t far, but when they reached the ominous cavern, the Goddess felt something she rarely ever encountered: cold and decay. Raising a hand, she let the powers that clung to this area touch upon her, just to see what it truly was. Very little of her powers seemed capable of weaving through it before fading out.
This was no mere cavern – it was a barrier between the living realm and the afterlife. Still, this was where Tikki brought her.
“… How strange. That sad God belongs to the Underworld?” she asked softly, her brows furrowing. Though she personally knew little of the realm itself, that God had appeared so… well, he wasn’t what she’d expect from the many stories her mother or father had told. Perhaps someone more frightening, with wicked eyes and a sinister grin, but the God had bore none of those features.
Taking a step forward, she soon took another, placing herself before the barrier. Tikki flitted madly by her ear, trying to draw Marinette away, but the Goddess lingered by the entrance nonetheless.
And with her hands clasped together, the Spring Goddess decided to step through.
but i can't help but drive away from all the mess you made,
you sent this hurricane now it won't go away.
tumblr month: @auyeahaugust
links: ao3 | ff.net
"ISN'T owning a Bug a little too on the nose for you?"
Marinette only huffs at the statement, before opening the passenger seat to her car— a Volkswagen Beetle, vibrantly painted red with minor black accents. It really says Ladybug in every sense of the word, but thankfully, most only assume that she's a major fan or that it's purely coincidental. ("Because Marinette can't be that superheroine, of course. She's too _.")
Honestly, she doesn't know whether to feel grateful or insulted by the notion.
(It's fun, though: to see how far she can go without them figuring out her identity.)
Across her, Adrien smiles softly.
He's making jokes now, to Marinette's absolute relief. But it's not as genuine; she can still see the exhaustion under his eyes, the low tilt of his mouth, and the downcast expression his face wears, no matter how desperately he tries to hide it.
Adrien opens the back of the car, throwing in a bag of random necessities— clothes, toiletries, snacks, and whatever else one would haphazardly pack for a last-minute trip for god-knows-how-long.
Marinette already has a pre-packed bag for things in case of emergencies (Hawkmoth may have stopped being active, but it always helps to be prepared), so it doesn't really take much time for her to be ready to leave. She figures they'll be gone for the weekend, maybe a few more days, but guesses that it won't be for long.
(To be sure, though, Marinette leaves her parents a long-winded message that she's going out to Alya's. They've become all but too accustomed to her sudden and unexplainable disappearances, having long since accepted that they aren't privy to their daughter's whole affairs.
They assume she's got a secret boyfriend. She can't explain how intensely she wishes that it were true.)
Whatever the case, however, Marinette only wants to see her partner happy.
As friends, of course.
They both get in the car, with Marinette taking the driver's seat. She starts the engine, then turns to face him.
"So, where to?"
He shrugs. "I don't really mind where we go," Adrien starts, before sighing softly to himself. "As long as it's anywhere but here."
Marinette only nods, then starts forward.
She doesn't know where she's going, but decides that maybe (for the first time in life), it'd be better to go forward without a plan in mind.
.
.
The call arrived at five in the morning, through Ladybug's phone.
Her first instinct was that it was an akuma attack.
But when she picked up the phone, worried for the citizens of Paris, she steadily realized she should only be worried about one of them.
"Do you remember when we joked about running away together?"
He sounded like he'd been crying.
Marinette nodded, though fully aware that he couldn't see her through the other line.
Adrien didn't mind; he simply continued speaking.
"Maybe I wasn't kidding?"
The line was silent for a moment, before her calm and determined voice flowed through the phone.
"Let's go, then."
.
.
Adrien breaks the silence an hour into the road trip.
"I'm sorry I had you do this for me," he starts, evidently fumbling for the next words to say. "I didn't know who else to call."
"Don't be sorry. You know I'll always be here for you."
He stares at her, maybe for a moment too long, then smiles, almost forlorn.
"I know."
.
.
"My feelings for you haven't changed," Chat Noir began, as they watched the Paris skyline on the balcony. "Ladybug or Marinette… I still love you."
She swallowed down the sudden dryness in her mouth.
"Chat… Adrien… you know I—"
"I know," he smiled at her, then looked back up to the sky. "It's a beautiful view tonight."
.
.
They buy sandwiches at a nearby convenience store and decide to keep driving, as the moon peeks out from the sky.
"Beautiful," Adrien says, as he drives down the winding road.
They've decided to switch seats, allowing Marinette to take a much-needed rest in the passenger seat.
She looks up at him drowsily, rubbing at her eyes.
"Sorry, what did you say?"
He smiles softly, then gestures at the vast amount of greenery before them.
"The trees," he says. "I thought they were beautiful."
She looks at him longingly, then nods.
"They are."
.
.
Marinette still has nightmares about him.
Fighting him, while the rest of Paris— the rest of the world— sinks beneath their feet.
She remembers seeing her own body crumble at a single touch.
The look of insanity and love in his eyes… how the only thing she's ever wanted is transformed into her deepest fears in a single moment.
Little kitty on a roof, all alone without his lady.
She can't let it happen again.
Not to Paris, not to herself, not to him.
It's a risk.
And it's not one she's willing to take.
.
.
They decide to stop at a motel as midnight draws closer.
She insists he sleep on the bed, but he insists that it would be too unprofessional for them to share the bed with each other.
Adrien's not wrong.
It's a few minutes into them turning off the lights when someone speaks up, their voice echoing in the night.
"Are you still having nightmares?"
"The same ones."
"You know it's just a nightmare, right? It never happened."
"But it felt so real."
"Adrien, you would never do that to me."
"It wasn't on purpose… I just… I see flashes. White claws, your body turning to ash, a flood that ends the world… I was so scared… to lose you, to be the reason you're gone… do you promise it's just my imagination?"
There's a brief pause, and her voice almost sounds unsteady.
"Of course, kitty. I know you'll never hurt me."
"I love you."
"..."
"Good night."
.
.
They go home the next day.
(It's not really a road trip, if anything.)
She drops him off at his apartment.
"Call me if you have nightmares again," Marinette tells him. "I'll never let you be alone."
"I know," he smiles back. "You'll never leave this kitty all alone… not without his lady."
She freezes, then takes a deep breath.
"I'll see you, Chat."
The moment he disappears into the building, she slams the door to her car shut and covers her mouth; a feeble attempt in stopping the torrent of sobs and gasps that wrack her body.
