#beyyo

Meanwhile, Adrien came into Marinette and Emilie’s room. “Hey” he said upon entering. He looked and saw Marinette was alone. “Where’s my mother?”

“She’s beginning physical therapy,” Marinette explained.

“Oh” Adrien said, surprised and delighted by the news.

“Some of the doctors were worried, but she insisted she get a start” Marinette continued.

Adrien chuckled. “That’s mother alright.” The couple shared a giggle. “It might be better this way.” Marinette seemed puzzled. Adrien’s smile widened. “Someone’s been missing you.” He took out a box and opened it.

As the box opened, Tikki appeared. Marinette was overcome with delight. “TIKKI!” she gasped.

Tikki flew up to Marinette as fast as she could and hugged her cheek. “Marinette!” The two snuggled each other. Once the little hug was over, Tikki said “I’m glad you’re OK.”

“Me too,” Marinette responded. She averted her gaze for a bit. “I feel like I should have asked you.” Tikki was curious. “About the ultimate move thing. I mean, after what happened with you and the previous holder of the wolf miraculous…”

“Marinette, it’s fine,” Tikki said. “The lucky charm gave you the idea for a reason. In spite of needing to perform that move, both you and her are amazing Ladybugs, and nothing can change that.”

Marinette smiled and blushed. “Thanks Tikki.” Adrien stood there, observing but not interrupting.

As the days went by, the recovery process progressed for the patients, as well as Paris itself. While the city had seen a great deal of damage from Hawk Moth, the Nurushwa attack was on a whole other level. While the miraculous cure did its job, the city was still in shock, and it needed some time to readjust.

During this time, Gabriel was meeting constantly with lawyers to figure out the details of his case. He was making certain arrangements to make sure everything goes smoothly. Meanwhile, Marinette and Lila were getting visits from their classmates to make sure they were doing well, and in Lila’s case, assuring them that they could bury the hatchet.

One of the processes of Paris’s recovery was a self-imposed quarantine. This was an effort to maintain order, get accounts from everyone involved, and maybe trap this Nurushwa figure. However, this was a temporary process, and nearing its end. Among those set to leave Paris once this quarantine was over, Travis and Cassandra were some of the most anxious.

Vlad was meeting with them in their hotel room. “It sucks that we gotta leave soon,” Travis lamented. “I was getting used to having you being in the same neighborhood as us, just like old times.”

“Hm,” Vlad grunted. “I’m going to miss it too. But we’ll never be too far apart. We have cellphones and such.”

“Right…” Travis reluctantly agreed. “It’s just not the same, you know?”

“We can come visit whenever, you know,” Cassandra said.

“I guess that’s true” Travis said, cheering up slightly. He sighed. “Part of me wishes we could just move here, you know? Not only are you here, but the friends you’ve made are amazing.”

“Well, what can I say?” Vlad asked. “Only the best for me.”

Meanwhile, Cassandra chuckled. “Are you sure this isn’t about one friend in particular?” she insinuated.

Travis was caught off-guard. “Well,” he blushed, “I can’t say she isn’t one of the BIGGER reasons… But you must feel it too, you know? The general presence of Vlad’s friends here.”

“Of course,” Cassandra said. “I just can’t miss an opportunity to tease you.” Travis rolled his eyes.

Meanwhile, Kagami was doing some fencing training. Longg was watching her. She was working aggressively, and losing focus. Longg imagined it had something to do with the conversation they had when they got home after the attack and the incident with Katelyn.

Flashing back, Kagami walked into her room. She sat in front of her tv and started playing video games. Longg floated out beside her. “So, um, why did you tell Travis and Cassandra you’re Ryuko?”

Kagami shrugged. “I guess I felt like it.”

“It’s a little unorthodox,” Longg informed her.

“I know…” Kagami replied. She had just been defeated in her game. “Ugh. Fine.”

“Fine what? Longg asked.

Kagami sighed. “I think I’ve made my decision.”

“‘Decision’?” Longg inquired.

“Yeah,” Kagami answered. “And as amazing as Luka is, I think I actually like Travis more.”

“Oh” Longg said, realizing what Kagami was talking about. “So that’s why?”

Kagami nodded. “I figured if we were going to end up going out, he’d have to know the truth at some point or another.”

“So, if you don’t mind,” Longg began, “what was the deciding factor in all of this?”

Kagami smiled. “Like I said, Luka’s great...but Travis has this air about him. He’s just so passionate and free, and I feel like I want that out of a potential boyfriend, you know?”

“I see” Longg said. “So, when are you going to tell him?”

“That, I’m not sure,” Kagami said. “This whole time has been crazy...I want to wait until things settle down a bit before I go jumping into this.”

“That sounds fair,” Longg replied.

Back in the present, Kagami was making mistake after mistake in her training. She threw off her helmet and said “I can’t take it anymore!” She went to go change. Once she was finished, she stormed out of the house.

She started out walking, but then sped up into a run. She was on her way to Le Grand Paris, hoping that he’d be there. When she arrived, she stopped, caught her breath, and composed herself. She walked in, and calmly took the elevator up.

When she got to the floor they were staying in, she left and hurried down the hall. She arrived at their room. She hesitated at first, but she shook herself out of it and knocked. The knock was gentle, but forceful.

Vlad opened the door. “Kagami? What’s up?” Kagami brushed past Vlad. “OK?”

Kagami walked up to Travis. “You!”

Travis seemed confused over this confrontational Kagami. He pointed to himself and said “Me?”

“You!” Kagami repeated. She sighed and loosened her tension. “When I first came to Paris, I thought I was the best there ever was, the best there ever is, and the best there ever will be.”

“O...K…?” Travis said, confused. Vlad and Cassandra were looking on equally confused.

“But right away, I was made apparent of my flaws,” Kagami went on. “As time went on, I’ve slowly learned to overcome those flaws, or at least work towards that. Yet when we first interacted, you seemed to fall in love with me almost instantly. At a time where I kind of hated myself, and I took my anger out on you.” Kagami intensely stared at Travis. “Do you think I’m perfect when I’m not?”

Travis was puzzled. He looked at Vlad and Cassandra, neither of whom were able to help. He turned back to Kagami. “Well...that’s...um…” He sighed. “To be honest, being perfect is overrated.” Kagami was confused. “I didn’t say any of what I said because I thought you were perfect. I said what I said because I thought you were amazing. You still are. But perfect is a bit much to expect, you know?”

Kagami smiled. “Yeah. I do. Hm. Today, while I was practicing fencing, I started to lose focus.” Travis was stunned. “This was the first time since the battle against that Nurushwa thing that I did.”

“I’m sorry…” Travis said, unsure of what else to say.

“Don’t be,” Kagami said. “Because it was the first time since the attack that I had a focus to lose. That I can let my mind think about other things. That I don’t have to worry about a monster peering over my shoulder.”

“Oh” Travis said.

Kagami closed in on him. “I was thinking about you. I think you’re amazing too. So...um...will, uh, will you go out with me?”

Travis’s face was now beat red. Kagami was also blushing, but she looked a little more composed. Still, blushing, Triavis laughed a little. “Hah. Of course.”

Kagami grabbed the lapels of Travis’s jacket. “Oh yeah?” She pulled herself in closer, pressing her body against his. “Prove it.” She gave him a kiss. Travis was taken aback for a second, but wrapped his head around what was happening and focused. He wrapped his arms around Kagami, squeezing her tenderly.

Once the kiss was over, the two looked at each other. They noticed the other was blushing, and started giggling amongst themselves. Travis then said “Now THAT was truly amazing.”

“Congratulations you two,” Cassandra said.

They looked at Cassandra and Vlad, who were smirking, but supportive all the same. “Hm hm. Thanks” Kagami said.

The following day, Mylene and Ivan went to visit Lila, who was also getting a visit from Lorenzo, because of course. “Hi Lila. Lorenzo” Mylene said upon entering.

“Hey,” Ivan said. “How are you all doing?”

Lila giggled. “Well, I’m doing better with all of the visitors I’m getting.” She looked down. “It is nice. After all this time, all of this double-dealing, it is nice that there are people who are willing to give me another shot.”

“It happens to the best of us,” Ivan explained. “If you’re willing to change, people will be there to help.”

“Speaking of helping people,” Mylene said, “the food pantry’s been missing you for the past couple of days Lorenzo.”

“Ah ha ha” Lorenzo laughed. “Well, uh…”

“It’s fine,” Lila said. “I’m in good hands. You’ve been here enough to know that.”

“Right…” Lorenzo said. “It’s just...I’ve missed you...a whole…”

“I know…” Lila said. “I’ve missed you too. And I also missed me as well.” Lorenzo smiled, as did Ivan and Mylene.

Meanwhile, Adrien, Vlad, Travis, Cassandra, and Kagami were visiting Marinette. “Are you two really leaving tomorrow?” Adrien asked.

“Yeah,” Cassandra answered. “We figured we should visit before we’re off.”

“Well, it’s always a pleasure,” Marinette said. “Whenever you come here next, we should hang out more.”

“Hopefully you’re not laid up in a hospital” Cassandra replied.

“Of course,” Marinette responded.

“Let’s hope things aren’t as hectic either” Vlad noted.

“Yeah, there sure were a lot of ups and downs this time around,” Travis added. He looked over at Kagami. “But I will say, this trip went out on top.”

Kagami walked over and embraced him. “We have something to tell you.” Adrien and Marinette were curious.

Travis wrapped his arm around her. “Heh. We’re kind of going out.” Adrien and Marinette were stunned. Kagami gave him a kiss on the cheek to highlight that.

Marinette smiled. “Congratulations you two.”

Kagami turned to Adrien. “You’re not jealous, are you?”

Adrien smiled. “Of course not. I have a wonderful girlfriend, and you have a wonderful boyfriend.”

Kagami smiled back. “Thanks Adrien.”

After they left the hospital, Vlad looked at his cohorts. “You go on ahead. I’ve got something to do.”

“You sure?” Travis said.

“Yeah” Vlad answered. “If I don’t catch back up to you today, I’ll definitely be there to see you off tomorrow.”

“Well, if you’re so determined, then I guess we’ll seeya” Cassandra said. “And good luck.”

“Yeah,” Kagami added. She nodded. Vlad nodded back and left.

While Vlad was walking, Beyyo popped out. “Um, just out of curiosity, what are you doing?”

Vlad sighed. “Mr. Agreste, Lila, Kagami… heck, practically everyone. They’re all starting to move forward. And I need to do the same.”

At the Liberty, there was a knock. Juleka answered. “Vlad?”

“Hey” Vlad said with little emotion. “Can I speak with Luka?”

“Oh. Sure” Juleka said. She left to get Luka.

Luka arrived. “Vlad?”

Vlad tensed up. “Listen.” He stood silent. Luka waited patiently. “GAH!” Vlad vented. Luka flinched. “Sorry” Vlad said, calming down. Luka readjusted himself. “I just have to say it. I..sort of have a thing for you…”

“I’ve noticed,” Luka said nonchalantly.

Vlad’s face grew a little red, but he pressed on. “But I can’t keep holding out for a light that isn’t going to come. So, I need to know now: Is it possible that the two of us could go out? Or are you straight?”

Luka chuckled. Vlad was stunned. “I’m sorry. But that whole speech just now was incredibly adorable.”

Vlad’s face grew redder. “You-You’re not answering the question.”

“Isn’t he?” Beyyo asked.

“Let’sssss wait and sssssee” Sass responded.

Luka grabbed Vlad’s hand. “I’d say it’s more than possible.” He moved in and gave Vlad a kiss on the cheek.

Vlad’s face was entirely red. “Wh-Where did this come from?”

Luka rubbed the back of his head. “Well, I’ve been thinking a lot. About me, and what I want out of someone. I mean, I was a bit down when Marinette started going out with Adrien, but you can’t hang on to one person like that forever. Otherwise, you’re just a one-hit wonder, you know.”

Vlad was taken aback by Luka’s explanation. “I...was sort of thinking the same thing...I needed an answer, otherwise I couldn’t move on…”

“And it’s things like that that made me realize, you’re someone I’d want to go out with” Luka said. “Plus, your impassioned speech was, again, adorable.” Vlad turned his head, a little embarrassed. Luka smirked. “C’mon.” He grabbed Vlad’s head, turned it towards him, and gave him a kiss, this time on the lips. Vlad was surprised, but followed through almost instantly. A few minutes later, all of Vlad and Luka’s friends got a picture of the two of them announcing their new relationship.

The day after, Kagami, Vlad, and Luka were there to see Travis and Cassandra off. “Seeya!” Vlad said.

“Of course!” Travis exclaimed. “And congratulations yourself!” Vlad blushed, but Luka took his hand, and he calmed down. The two started to wave.

“Don’t have too much fun with us!” Cassandra said. The two started getting on the train.

Kagami called out. “Hey!” Travis looked at her. “Promise you’ll call when you get back.”

“Heh” Travis laughed. “What do you take me for?” They both smiled at each other. Travis and Cassandra got on the train, and it started going.

Meanwhile, Alya and Nino were visiting Lila. Of course, they also forgave Lila after Lila apologized. They were having a good time. But then Lila’s face went from happy to somber. “What’s wrong?” Nino asked.

Lila looked at the two of them. “Do you know if Marinette’s coming?”

“Marinette?” Alya wandered.

“Yeah” Lila said. “She’s the one I want to apologize to the most.”

“Oh, um, well…” Nino sputtered.

Lila sighed. “She’s not coming, is she?”

“No no, she’ll come,” Alya replied. “It’s just…”

“It’s fine,” Lila said. “I know a lie when I hear it. I can’t say I’m surprised. Marinette is the one I was the worst to. I can’t imagine she’ll forgive me.” Alya and Nino were awestruck. Lila turned back to them and smiled again. “But thank you two for coming. Honestly.” Alya and Nino nervously laughed.

A little later, Alya and Nino entered Marinette’s room. “Hey guys,” Marinette said.

“Um…” Nino pondered. “What are we telling people who AREN’T in the know?”

Marinette was confused. “Ugh” Alya groaned. “Lila wants to know if you’ll come and visit.”

“Lila?” Marinette wondered.

“Yeah, she’s upstairs,” Nino said. “Room 303.”

“And she’s resigning herself to thinking you won’t forgive her” Alya added. “Um, you will forgive her, right?”

“Huh? Oh, of course” Marinette said.

Alya said. “Good. Because I know you girl, and you got SUPER worked up about her.”

“Yeah…” Marinette said, embarrassed. “When I think of something, I’ll let you know.”

“Great!” Nino said. The three of them had a little visit, but Alya and Nino had to leave. Adrien hung around a little bit, but also left eventually.

That night, Marinette’s mind drifted towards Lila. From what everyone who visited her told her, she really was ready to turn over a new leaf. When she was through apologizing, she was pleasant and fun to be around.

She thought about what Alya told her. Lila really believed that she wouldn’t forgive her. Of course, Marinette had every right not to and then some, but darn it, that just wasn’t who she was. If she can forgive Hawk Moth on some level, she can forgive Lila.

Marinette looked around. Mrs. Agreste had already fallen asleep after another exhausting day of physical therapy. She decided to follow her lead and give it a go. She moved herself to hang her legs off of her bed. “Now or never.”

She gently flung herself downwards. She landed on her feet. She had only done so to use the in-room bathroom, and even that was a bit strenuous, since previously she had been unconscious for a week. She started moving to the door.

By the time she reached it, she was already breathing heavily. She proceeded to open the door. She had been in plenty of situations where she needed to move something heavy when she was Ladybug, and it felt like that. Still, she opened the door and continued to walk.

She had to lean on the wall for support. She was feeling the strain of every step. Yet she was determined all the same.

She made it to the elevator. She got in, pressed the buttons to head up, and leaned back against the wall. The elevator granted her a small reprieve. “You can do this.” The elevator opened. She lifted herself back up and headed out.

She didn’t have to go very far to find room 303, but it felt like a struggle all the way. She arrived at the door. She placed her hands on the handle, and began opening it, calling upon the same strength she used to open her own door.

When she slid the door open, there was a loud sound, which woke up both patrons of the room. Nathalie turned the light on. As soon as she saw a fatigued Marinette wandering into the room, she immediately pressed the “Call Nurse” button. Lila just looked at her in shock and said, “Marinette?”

Marinette looked up at Lila. “Lila…” That was all she could muster before passing out.

Marinette woke up back in her own bed. She was greeted by a doctor. “You gave us quite a scare, Miss Dupain-Cheng,” the doctor said.

Marinette looked down. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright” the doctor noted. “Frankly, I admire your drive, but we should work on baby steps.”

Marinette looked up and smiled. “You’re right.”

“I’m sure with your adventure last night, you’ll do great, '' Emilie said from her bed.

Marinette looked over at her. “Thank you Mrs. Agreste.”

The door opened up.It was Lila. She rushed over to Marinette’s bed. “Marinette! I’m so sorry.”

“Lila? What are you doing here? Marinette asked.

“Well, um, you did come to my room last night,” Lila said.

“Right…” Marinette replied. “I came because Nino and Alya told me that you were asking why I hadn’t visited yet.”

“Oh. That makes sense” Lila realized. “Well, don’t worry, Mr. Agreste explained everything.”

Marinette was confused. “He did?”

“He was here this morning,” Emilie jumped in. “After he heard about what happened, he came to make sure you were OK. When the doctors told him you were stable, he was relieved. He would have stayed, but he said he was busy with the upcoming case.”

“I see…” Marinette said.

“Marinette,” Lila began, “had I known he’d attacked you like that, I would’ve understood.”

Marinette was confused. Before she could say anything, Emilie said “Remember? You were offered the butterfly miraculous to continue Hawk Moth’s mission. And when you said no, he attacked you. Thankfully, Cat Noir, Judgement Wolf, and Ladybug figured him out just then and saved you.” Emilie winked.

“Oh” Marinette said. “Yeah.” She looked downward. “Lila. I don’t want you to think I wouldn’t forgive you. I mean, from what everyone has told me about their visits with you, you sound so sincere about wanting to make it up to everyone. I can’t be mad at that.”

“But you were the person I was the worst to,” Lila admitted.

“I know,” Marinette said. “And trust me, there were days where there was nothing more that I wanted than your complete humiliation.” Lila was stunned with this honesty, but understood it. “But I can’t live in that animosity. I just can’t. Ladybug is working so hard to fight for peace, and I want to be able to live up to that.”

Lila’s face was filled with mixed emotions. “I’ve been living in that animosity for so long. And I thought I enjoyed it, but it all came crashing down on me, and I realized I didn’t want that anymore. But I thought it was too late, so I kept running because that was all I was good at.”

Lila smiled. “But when Ladybug said she wanted to save me, I was overjoyed. She could have left me for dead, and I would have understood it. But she wanted to save me. So now I want to live up to Ladybug’s light too.”

Marinette smiled and reached out her hand. “Friends?”

Roger was nervous, but knew he had to push on. “Well, no doubt you are familiar with Hawk Moth.”

“Of course” Vlad said.

“Well, we are investigating the case,” Roger said. “Of course, we haven’t gotten very far, as Hawk Moth remains secluded. However, yesterday an idea popped into my head. When I was taking your mother back to her office, she remarked that since your family had gotten here she was the only one who has been akumatized.” The family nodded.

“So, that got me thinking” Roger continued. “This general area, and this school in particular, have been at the epicenter of a lot of akuma attacks. And yet, Vlad has yet to be akumatized!”

Vlad’s parents were worried, but Vlad grinned and said, “Oh, this is gonna be fun.”

“Vlad!” Ichika said.

“No no, please” Vlad replied. “I want to hear more about how the Lieutenant thinks I’m Hawk Moth.”

Roger gave him a look. “Of course we don’t think you’re Hawk Moth” he said. “However, Hawk Moth has been known to blackmail people to do his bidding. If you have anything to say, now’s the time.”

“We’re only here to protect you” Mr. Damocles added.

Vlad looked puzzled, but then gave out a hearty laugh and said “Nah. I’m not being blackmailed by Hawk Moth.”

Roger was confused. “Then why haven’t you been akumatized yet?”

“I guess I’m just lucky” Vlad said.

“It takes a lot to get under our Vlad’s skin” Ichika added.

“As you can see by him being completely nonchalant about these accusations” Conrad added.

“Cause it’s ridiculous” Vlad said.

Roger grew even more confused. “Well, according to my Sabrina, Vlad can be a little distrusting” he said.

“Yeah, but I keep a cool head about it” Vlad said. “Which should have also tipped you off on me not working for Hawk Moth. Why would I trust him of all people?”

“Well, it’s not a matter of trust,” Roger stated. “If he was blackmailing you, that means he was using something against you.”

“Yeah, and I’d have to trust him not to use it against me, so long as I did his dirty work” Vlad said.  “Which, after all of the chaos he’s created, I would not.”

“I see” Roger said. “Thank you for you time.”

“You may return to class” Mr. Damocles said.

“However, please refrain from talking about this with anybody” Roger added. “If Hawk Moth does have an associate in this school, it’s better we keep the element of surprise.”

Vlad looked at him, sighed, and said “Fine.”

Roger nodded. “Thank you for understanding. And thank you for coming in.” Vlad, Ichika, and Conrad left.

“It’ll be alright” Conrad said.

“Your father’s right” Ichika said. “I’m sure this is just standard procedure.”

“Yeah…” Vlad said. His parents left, while he returned to class.

As Vlad walked back in the room, all eyes were on him. Marinette tugged on his hoodie and asked “What happened?”

Vlad looked around. As much as he trusted everyone in the room, he also knew that Roger had a point. And if anyone told anyone else, they could tell whoever, and it would get to Hawk Moth eventually. So, resigned, he just said “Mr. Damocles thought I did something I didn’t do.”

“OK…” Marinette said, concerned. Vlad took his seat. He hated that he had to lie like that, but it wasn’t really lying. He knew it was to get to Hawk Moth, which also was his goal. Still, he didn’t like it.

A little while later, another announcement came over the speakers. “Will Marinette Dupain-Cheng come to the principal's office?” Marinette was just as confused, but she gathered her things and left. There were murmurs among the rest of the class.

Meanwhile, Vlad went on high alert. I mean, I guess if they’re looking into people who haven’t been akumatized, Marinette fits that perfectly. But she’s Ladybug. Not like she can tell people that. Still… What am I thinking about? It’s Marinette. She’ll be fine.

Marinette walked in and was surprised. “Mom? Roger?”

“Have a seat,” Roger said.

“It’s OK” Sabine said. “I’m here.”

Marinette was still confused, but she sat down. “What’s this about?” she asked.

Roger looked at her and said, “In our investigation into Hawk Moth, we have determined that this general area, and this school in particular, have been the epicenter for a lot of akuma attacks.” Marinette nodded. “And yet, you have yet to be akumatized.”

Marinette raised her eyebrow. “What?!”

“We also know Hawk Moth has a history of blackmailing people,” Roger said. “You’re in a safe environment right now. Is he blackmailing you?’

“No!” Marinette said. “This is absurd!”

“I agree Roger” Sabine said.

Roger continued. “Ma’am, I know it’s hard, but you can be honest.”

“I’m not being blackmailed” Marinette shouted.

Roger then looked at his notes. “Then how do you explain your constant absences?”

“Well, uh, I’m not the best at time management?” Marinette said, unconvincingly.

“What about your constant fighting with Lila Rossi?” Roger asked.

“What?!” Marinette said. “She was being blackmailed by Hawk Moth! Why would I fight with her if we were in the same circumstances?”

“Well, what if you weren’t?” Roger asked.

Marinette was confused and angry. “What’s that supposed to mean?” she asked.

“Well, what if, and I hate that this thought is even crossing my mind, you were working with Hawk Moth…” Roger said. “You know… of your own free will?”

“Roger, this is crazy!” Sabine said.

“I don’t want this to be true either,” Roger said. “I just have to consider every possibility.”

“How is this even a question?!” Sabine asked.

“Yeah, the reason I didn’t get along with Lila is because she was a liar, even before Hawk Moth blackmailed her” Marinette said.

“Interesting” Roger asked. “How do you know when Lila was being blackmailed?”

“What?!” Marinette said. “Well, I don’t think she was blackmailed when she first arrived…”

“OK” Roger said. “How did you know she was a liar?” Marinette was shocked. “Sure, she was lying, but according to reports, you’re the only one who seemed to know right away.”

“Easy” Marinette said. “She said she was friends with Ladybug.”

Roger nodded. “And how did you know she wasn’t?”

“Well…” Marinette got nervous. “Why would any friend of Ladybug’s tell everyone who she was?” Sabine raised her eyebrow. “I mean, she’s Paris’s hero. Why would someone who is supposedly her friend tell everyone she was friends with Ladybug? Wouldn’t that make her a bigger target?”

“I suppose” Roger said. 

Break began, and people were starting to leave class. Vlad was concerned. “She’s been in there for a while…”

“Hey” Adrien said, walking up to Vlad.

“Gah! Oh, it’s just you” Vlad replied.

“So, what’s going on? For real?” Adrien asked.

Vlad sighed. “I was told not to tell anyone,” he said.

“WHAT?!” Adrien said. He slammed his hands on the table. “What’s going on?!”

Vlad was upset. He needed to get it off of his chest. He knew he could trust Adrien. Still, he asked “Can you promise you won’t tell anyone?” Adrien nodded. Vlad sighed. “So, the police are interviewing people who haven’t been akumatized on the basis that they might be linked to Hawk Moth in some way.”

Adrien was confounded. “What?”

“Marinette’s been in there for a long time,” Vlad said. “Longer than I was anyway.”

“Well, she’s been here since the attacks began” Adrien said. “Maybe they’re just being thorough.”

“Maybe…” Vlad said. “I just feel bad is all.”

“Hey. She’s not working with Hawk Moth” Adrien said. “We just need to have faith.”

“I have faith in her” Vlad said. Adrien smiled, and walked off. “I just don’t have faith in Roger…” Vlad concluded.

Adrien walked to a secluded area. “Do you really think she’ll be OK?” Plagg asked.

“I’m sure of it” Adrien said. “She’s not working with Hawk Moth. We know that for sure.”

“Yeah, but she can’t tell anyone why!” Plagg interjected.

“Marinette’s creative. I’m sure she’ll think of something” Adrien said. “In the meantime, I think we should go on patrol. Someone has to be ready in case something happens.” Plagg huffed. “Plagg! Claws out!” He turned into Cat Noir and left to patrol the city.

“But back to the original point,” Roger said. “Almost all of your classmates have been akumatized, and yet you haven’t. It could be possible that you’re preping them for Hawk Moth and then coming in afterwards under the guise of being their friend.”

“That’s nonsense!” Marinette said.

“Then why haven’t you been akumatized?” Roger asked.

“Well…” Marinette began. Sabine was focused on her. “The truth is, I’ve almost been akumatized twice.”

“I see” Roger said. “Can anyone corroborate?”

“Ms. Bustier can for one of the times” Marinette said. “As for the other… no one can corroborate that one…” Sabine grew more focused on Marinette.

“Well, let’s call Ms. Bustier in” Mr. Damocles said. He then announced “Could Ms. Bustier please come to the principal’s office?”

Ms. Bustier left her classroom in a hurry, pushing passed Chloe and Sabrina. “Sorry” she said. She continued.

“I don’t like this” Vlad said. “Not one bit.” His brow furrowing 

Ms. Bustier walked in and saw everything. “What’s going on?”

“Ma’am, we need you to verify a statement” Roger said. “Were you present when Marinette was almost akumatized one time?”

Ms. Bustier was surprised, and then solemnly said “Yes. That was when I ended up being akumatized…”

“Oh” Roger said. “I’m sorry.”

Ms. Bustier smiled. “It’s OK,” she said. “I’m just glad Marinette didn’t get akumatized. I would have never forgiven myself if she had.”

“I see…” Roger said.

“So, now are you convinced?” Marinette said.

Roger thought on it. “Well, and again, I don’t want to believe it, but it could be possible that you purposefully lured the akuma there to akumatize her?”

“COME ON!” Marinette said.

“I will believe you if you say no,” Roger said. “I just need to make sure. Hawk Moth is this city’s most dangerous criminal. I can’t afford to overlook anything.”

Sabine got a text. “Well, as much as I would LOVE to continue this conversation, my husband needs me at the bakery. And you can’t continue questioning my daughter without a parent or legal guardian!”

Roger sighed. “Very well. But I want Marinette to remain close by.”

“Fine” Sabine said. “But she’s not guilty.” Sabine ran out of the office.

Vlad saw Sabine running out the door and out of the school. Did Marinette’s own mother abandon her? Did he do THAT good a job at pinning it on her? Vlad thought. This is messed up! I shouldn’t have promised that pig anything! Vlad was so wrapped up in his train of thought that he didn’t notice Marinette leaving with Ms. Bustier.

“You believe me, right Ms. Bustier?” Marinette asked, tears in her eyes.

“Of course” Ms. Bustier said. “You’ve been in my class for quite some time now. I know you’re not malicious, let alone working for Hawk Moth.”

Marinette smiled. “Thanks Ms. Bustier.”

“Do you want to talk about it some more in my office?” Ms. Bustier asked. “It sounds like you could use it.”

“I’d like that” Marinette said.

“GAH!” Vlad shrieked, as he hit the railing.

“Well well, someone who failed to protect his friend” Hawk Moth said. “And is that a hint of betrayal I sense? What an alluring combination. Fly my little akuma, and evilize him!”

Beyyo looked around to make sure no one was around. He then came out and said “Vlad calm down.”

“This sucks” Vlad said. “Marinette did nothing wrong.”

“I know” Beyyo said. “And I’m pretty sure the officer knows as well. He seems like an OK guy.”

“Then why is he doing this?” Vlad asked.

“He’s probably just being thorough” Beyyo said. “Like us.”

Vlad seemed to calm down a little. He then sighed and said “You’re right. Still, I should have warned Marinette. I feel like I betrayed her trust.”

Meanwhile, Chloe and Sabrina were on their way to Le Grand Paris. “Oooo! I’m so excited to have lunch with you today!” Sabrina said.

Chloe smiled. “Me too.” She paused for a moment. “Look. I know we’ve been dating for two weeks now, and I’ve been trying to be nicer for a little while longer than that…” she clenched her fist. “...but I still feel like I haven’t done enough to make it up for all the times I’ve been nasty to you.”

“Chloe” Sabrina said. She walked over to her, wrapped her arms around her, and gave her a kiss. “Being you is enough.”

Chloe smiled. “I don’t deserve you” she said, blushing. They let go of each other and continued walking. “So, does this mean you don’t want the surprise I’ve planned once we get back to Le Grand Paris?”

Sabrina got excited. “A surprise? For me? You’re the one I don’t deserve!” The couple giggled.

“Hey!” a thug called out. The couple turned their attention to him. He looked completely disheveled and had a knife. “Give me your money!” The couple tried to back up slowly. “Do it!”

Chloe didn’t know what to do. She could turn into Honey Bee and dispose of this guy, but that would mean someone other than Sabrina and some of the heroes knowing. And this guy didn’t seem particularly friendly.

Thankfully she didn’t need to make that decision, as at that moment, Cat Noir came in and stuck him down. “Cat Noir!” Sabrina said. She ran up and gave him a hug. “Thank you!”

“No need to thank me” Cat Noir said. “It’s just my job.” He winked at Chloe. Chloe nodded back and mouthed “thank you”. They heard the attempted robber groan. “Maybe we should get this guy to the police.” He got out his stick and gave a call.

Roger, still waiting in Mr. Damocles's office got an alert on his phone and checked it. “Oh no,” he said. He rushed out of the school, passing by a still slightly upset Vlad.

The akuma flew closer to Vlad. Beyyo’s eyes widened. “An akuma!” he said, hiding in Vlad’s hair.

“Where?” Vlad looked around. He saw the akuma flying towards him. “Where’s it going?”

“I think it’s trying to get to you” Beyyo said.

“Oh, so I’m good then. I can’t get akumatized” Vlad said.

“Yeah, but if the buttery tries and nothing happens, Hawk Moth will figure you out instantly” Beyyo said.

“Oh. Right” Vlad said. He then sprinted off. The akuma gave chase.

Roger met his daughter, Chloe, Cat Noir, and some other officers arresting the would be mugger at the sight of the attempted mugging. “Sabrina!” he said, giving his daughter a hug. “Are you alright?!”

“I’m fine, thanks to Cat Noir!” Sabrina said. Roger tipped his hat at Cat Noir.

The mayor’s limo pulled up to the scene. He got out, and he looked furious. “Is it true that my daughter almost got mugged?!” he said.

“Well, yes” Cat Noir said nervously. “But I stopped it.”

“IT DOESN’T MATTER!” Mayor Bourgeois screamed. Everyone winced. “I have done everything in MY power to make sure this kind of thing doesn’t happen! Chloe! Get in the limo! I’m organizing a security detail for you from now on!”

“WHAT?!” Chloe said. “Daddy, you’re being ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!”

“Am I?” the mayor yelled at his daughter. “Too many times, I have done nothing as villain after villain exacted their revenge on you! You’re not even Queen Bee anymore, so you can’t even defend yourself! And now, this guy isn’t even a villain created by Hawk Moth! No! I should have prevented that!”

“Um, no offence, but you can’t control everything that goes on in this town” Cat Noir said.

“What is my other option?!” Mayor Bourgeois shouted. “To let my daughter get hurt?! I don’t think so. And you!” he said, pointing to Roger. “Where were YOU in all of this?”

“Well, sir, I was uh, I was conducting police business” Roger said.

“I should have your badge!” yelled the Mayor.

“Hold up, that’s not fair!” Sabrina yelled. “In case you hadn’t noticed, I was jumped too, and I’m HIS daughter. I’m sure he’s just as worried.”

“She’s right” Cat Noir said. This did not calm down Mayor Bourgeois.

Vlad was hoofing it away from the akuma. The akuma was doing its best to keep up. “Dang It!” Vlad said. “Why’d I have to get all riled up?!”

“I find it commendable” Beyyo said. “You just wanted to protect your friend.”

“Thanks Beyyo, but right now I need to focus on out running this thing!” Vlad said.

He started to run passed the attempted mugging scene. “Cat Noir? Chloe? Lieutenant Roger? The Mayor?” Vlad was confused.

The akuma also got thrown through a loop, as it veered off from Vlad to a greater source of negative emotion: Mayor Bourgeois. The akuma flew right into his sash. “Well, that was unexpected” Hawk Moth said. “Still, I can work with this.”

Vlad stopped and looked at what had just happened. Everyone else also stared in horror. Hawk Moth then contacted him. “Hello again, Malidictator. Frustrated by the lack of control over the city you supposedly rule? Well, for the price of Ladybug and Cat Noir’s miraculous, you can bend this city to your whims! I trust you won’t fail me again.”

Once Marinette got home, she made her way to the kitchen. “Marinette, I’m glad you tried” Tikki said.

“Yeah, but she didn’t want to talk to me” Marinette said.

“She just needs to blow off some steam” Tikki said. “You know the feeling.”

Marinette smiled. “You’re right Tikki! In the meantime, let’s make her something for when she feels better tomorrow.” Marinette and Tikki began making brownies.

Later that night, Vlad and Beyyo were walking around town. “So, what should we do about Lila?” Vlad asked.

Beyyo thought about it. “I think we should approach cautiously. She is very volatile at the moment. She has lost whatever control she had and is ready to just fight back at the first sign of confrontation.”

“Provided she’s awake” Vlad said, smiling.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea” Beyyo said. “Remember what happened the first time with Chloe?” Vlad nodded. “This could go a lot worse than that. Chloe at least had the sense of what was happening was wrong, and she was used to her burden. This is all new to Lila.”

Vlad sighed. “I see your point. So, I guess we stick to the original plan then?” Beyyo nodded. “Beyyo! Fangs Sharpen!”

Judgement Wolf approached Marc’s house. He snuck into his room. “Wolf Mist!”

Marc was sitting in class, nervous about how he and Nathaniel’s first comic was going to turn out. It was a miracle that Nathaniel agreed to do this, especially after the whole Reverser fiasco. His mind was going a million miles a minute. Will people like it? If they don’t, will Nathaniel want to work with me still? Will I ruin Nathaniel’s reputation? Will that means he won’t go out with me? Oh, this was a bad idea.

“MARC!” Ms. Mendeleiev called out, breaking his concentration. “This is the third time this week I caught you not paying attention! Go to the principal’s office!”

Marc quietly packed up his things. He was no stranger to getting distracted in class, but Ms. Mendeleiev was right in that he was more distracted than usual this week. Between Marinette’s plan, Reverser, and now getting to work with Nathaniel, there was a lot on his mind.

Marc was staring at his feet while making his way to Mr. Damocles’s office. He didn’t notice he bumped into someone. “Ah! I’m so sorry!” He looked up. “Who are you?”

“I am Mayura” said the mysterious woman. “I can tell there’s a lot on your mind.”

“Well, what are you going to do about it?” Marc asked.

“Why don’t we hear yourself out? Talking things through always helps” Mayura said. Marc winced when she plucked a feather, infused it with energy, and fused it with Marc’s choker. “I can help you sort out your confusion.”

Marc didn’t know what to do. This sensation felt similar. “AHHHHHH!”

Mayura smiled. “I’ll take that as a yes. Now, let’s figure this out. TOGETHER!” Out of a blue-black cloud came out a multi-headed dragon, but each head was Marc’s head. “Meet Multi-Mark!”

“Why are you doing this?!” Marc asked.

“Yes, I would like to know as well,” said purple Marc, much calmer.

Mayura smiled. “You almost defeated Ladybug and Cat Noir. Hawk Moth and I think you can finish the job. With some help, of course.” Marc was stunned. “Oh look. The final piece of the puzzle.”

Marc saw an akuma flying towards his book. Not again! Marc decided to run off.

“Where is he going?” purple Marc said.

“Fool!” shouted red Marc. “He doesn’t want to get akumatized again!”

“Why not?” purple Marc asked.

“Because it was horrible!” said dark blue Marc.

“We should see if he’s OK” said yellow Marc. Multi-Marc flew off.

Marc was running away from the akuma when he heard “Gotcha!” Marc turned to see that Ladybug had arrived and caught the akuma. “Bye bye, little butterfly.” She walked up to Marc. “It’s a good thing I got here just in time, huh?”

“Well, about that” Marc said.

Multi-Marc appeared in front of them. “Hello Ladybug. It’s good to see you again” yellow Marc said.

“Is it?” green Marc said. “Because the last time we saw her, she was fighting us! She made us fall off the Eiffel Tower!”

“That’s right!” red Marc said.

“She only did that because we were akumatized” dark blue Marc said. “Something I regret every day.”

“Yes, but what is to say she won’t fight us again?” purple Marc said.

“I see” Ladybug said.

“Ladybug! It’s in my choker!” Marc said.

Multi-Marc looked on. “What happens if she gets our choker?” purple Marc asked.

“She’ll destroy it! And us!” green Marc said.

“We can’t let that happen” red Marc said.

“Without us, how is Marc supposed to overcome his confusion?” purple Marc asked.

“Don’t worry” light blue Marc said. “We’ve got it under control.” Multi-Marc grabbed Marc and placed him on his back. A cage formed around Marc and some tendrils tied him down. “See? Under control.”

“Give him back!” Ladybug demanded.

“NO!” red Marc said. He breathed fire, but Ladybug dodged it. Multi-Marc flew off after her.

Marc was freaking out in his cage. “Don’t worry” pink Marc told Marc. “It’ll all be OK!”

Marc wasn’t so sure, but hearing it made him feel better. “Thanks.”

“LADYBUG! Apologize to Marc NOW!” red Marc demanded.

Ladybug was confused. “For what?”

“For WHAT? For WHAT?! For FIGHTING HIM! That’s what!” red Marc said.

“It was scary!” green Marc said. “That look in your eye. You looked like you wanted to kill us!”

“Of course, it was a regretful action” dark blue Marc said. “But can you share the burden with us?”

“Ladybug! I know you to do the right thing! Do this for us” yellow Marc said.

“Hey there” Cat Noir said, arriving on the scene. “What’s going on?!”

“I know you mean well, Ladybug!” pink Marc said.

“I’m dealing with this weird dragon thing” Ladybug said.

“Ah! Cat Noir” light blue Marc said. “About time you showed up. Have I ever told you how good you look in your suit?”

“Is he hitting on me?” Cat Noir asked.

“Is that a problem?” light blue Marc asked.

“Well, I appreciate it” Cat Noir said. “But I’m going to have to decline.”

“You think you’re too good for me?!” red Marc said.

“I’m sure you can make it work!” pink Marc said.

“But how will we be able to call you Or schedule dates?” purple Marc asked.

“But what would we do?! Cat Noir is just as scary!” green Marc said.

“It’s obvious he would reject us” dark blue Marc said. “Why did we even bother?”

“OK…” Cat Noir said. “In order: No. We could. I would contact you. Trust me, ladybug is scarier.”

“Hey!” Ladybug said.

“See what I mean?” Cat Noir said. He noticed green Marc flinch. “And finally, yes, I would, but it’s because I’m in love with someone else.”

“Well, I’m sure I can change your mind” light blue Marc said.

Cat Noir turned to Ladybug and asked “Am I as bad as him?”

Ladybug smiled. “Sometimes, your worse.” Cat Noir frowned. Ladybug tickled his chin. “But I know it’s coming from a good place.” Cat Noir smiled.

“Now that that’s over, can we get back to the matter at hand?” purple Marc asked.

“Yes” Ladybug said. “Let go of Marc!”

“Not until he sorts himself out!” red Marc said.

“But how long will that take?” purple Marc asked.

“I know he can do it!” pink Marc said.

“As do I” light blue Marc said.

“Even if he does, what will that change?” dark blue Marc said. “He’ll just realize he was right to be confused.”

“Maybe he can just stay here!” green Marc said. “It’s safe in the cage!”

“Be quiet!” yellow Marc said. “He can’t concentrate with all this noise!”

Marc didn’t know what to do. His emotions were literally getting the better of him. He kept trying to struggle out, but to no avail. Then he remembered something. A common writing metaphor. The Chinese Finger Trap. He took a breath and relaxed.

Once he was relaxed, his binds came undone and his cage started to lower. He was surprised and happy to see that it worked. He took off his choker. “Ladybug! Here!” He threw the choker to Ladybug.

She ripped it up. “No more evildoing for you, little amok! Time to de-evilize! Gotcha! Bye Bye, little feather!”

Multi-Marc disappeared, and Marc landed safely on his feet. He walked over to Ladybug. “Thanks Ladybug.”

Ladybug smiled. “You did all the work yourself.”

“So, how’d you do it?” Cat Noir asked.

Marc smiled. “I just remembered that I needed to keep a clear head, and that whatever happens, I’ll come out just fine.”

The area turned into the white void. Marc was confused. “You passed” Judgement Wolf said.

“Judgement Wolf!” Marc said.

“Yes, it is I” Judgement Wolf said. “You know, I was a bit worried when I saw Ladybug chose you. From my observations, you have strong emotions, but you sometimes have trouble controlling them. When in a high tense situation, a hero should be able to focus that.”

“I agree” Marc said. “I was surprised when she chose me as well. But I’m glad she did. I’m glad I got to be a hero. I think she chose me because my emotions are strong.”

“Hm” Judgement Wolf snickered. “I’ll have to ask Ladybug about that. In the meantime, my kwami, Beyyo, will meet with you to see if you pass his standards.”

“I’ll be waiting” Marc said. As Judgement Wolf was about to leave, Marc stopped him “Wait! Is it possible that I can use Multi-Marc for a comic?”

Judgement Wolf looked at Marc. “Of course. You imagined him.”

“Wait, so that wasn’t your idea?” Marc asked.

“Not really” Judgement Wolf said. “My power doesn’t work like that. I just ask a question and I get an honest answer that you provide.”

“Wow!” Marc said.

“Anyways, good night” Judgement Wolf said, leaving.

Meanwhile, at Lila’s, Lila was afraid herself. Her mother tried talking to her, but she wasn’t having it. Lila’s mom knew well enough when to give her daughter some space, and decided to go to bed.

“Why?” Lila wondered, tears streaming down her cheeks. “Why now?” She was starting to really make friends. She was starting to put Hawk Moth behind her. She was really starting to become a better Lila. And in a moment, it was taken away.

She knew everyone knew she was a liar. She couldn’t believe that anyone had her best interests in mind when speaking to her. She knew that they would be in Marinette’s corner now more than ever.

“How can you hate Marinette?” they would ask. “She’s amazing. She’s selfless, gorgeous, kind, friendly, amazing, wonderful, and perfect in every way. Meanwhile, what are you? You tried to sabotage Marinette! You turned multiple people into akumas! You sold your friends out to Hawk Moth! You trying to fix it now is just another one of your lies! You kept us at arm’s length, but you expect us to be there for you now? Pathetic!”

Then and there, Lila made a decision. She texted someone and then got out a notepad and wrote something down.

At the Agreste manor, Gabriel received Lila’s text. “That isn’t good.” He fetched his miraculous and began to work.

The next morning, Marinette was walking to school. “I sure hope Lila likes these brownies. And that she’ll talk to me…”

“Don’t worry Marinette, I’m sure things will be OK” Tikki said.

Marinette got to school to see a crowd surrounding the area. “What’s going on?” Marinette asked. She pushed her way through to the front, and what she saw made her drop the tray of brownies.

Earlier that morning, Lila’s mom went to check on her. “Lila. Are you OK sweetie?” She opened the door and saw Hawk Moth standing there. She gasped.

“Hello, Ms. Rossi” Hawk Moth said.

“Sure Chloe. What’s this about?” Vlad said.

Chloe stood nervously. “Well…” She pointed to Marc. “That kid in the red told me you’d be a good person to talk to about this.”

“Ah yes, Marc” Vlad said. “Wait, about what?”

Chloe took a deep breath. She looked around and whispered into Vlad’s ear “I’m a lesbian.”

“Huh” Vlad said. “Follow me.” The two walked off.

“Oh. Hey Nathaniel” Marc said, nervously.

“I want to talk to you about what you said to me Thursday” Nathaniel said. The two sat down. “I’ve put a lot of thought into it. Before I give you my answer, I have to ask: Did you know I was bisexual?”

“What? No” Mac said. “Oh my! I didn’t even consider the fact that you didn’t like boys. I was so caught up in my own thing I-”

“Relax” Nathaniel said. “I get it. It must have been hard for you. Now, let me say what I think. I think we make a killer team. I think we compliment each other very well. And despite how timid you appear to be, you’re really bold. So, I’m willing to give this a shot.”

Marc was surprised. “You mean?”

“Yes Marc. I will go out with you” Nathaniel said.

Marc gave him a big hug. “Thank you” he said.

Nathaniel picked up Marc’s head. “Why celebrate with a hug?” They shared a kiss. Marc’s face turned completely red.

Vlad and Chloe found a place to talk in secret. “OK. We’re good. What do you want to talk about?”

Chloe said “Well...I don’t know how to tell people.”

“You told me,” Vlad said.

“I know” Chloe said. “But we don’t know each other very well. I want to tell people I’ve known for a long time, but I don’t want them to be upset with me.”

“You mean like Adrien?” Vlad asked.

“No. He knows already” Chloe said. “I mean more like the rest of the class.”

“I see” Vlad said. “Well, here’s the thing. If you want to come out to people without being too afraid, then you should control the circumstances in which you do it. That way, if something goes wrong, you can dictate what happens next.”

Chloe thought about it. “That’s a good idea. I think I have the perfect way to do it.”

“Then by all means” Vlad said.

“That Marc kid was right. You were good to talk to” Chloe said.

“By the way, if you’re ready to be more open, my Paris Pride booth is open today” Vlad said.

Chloe looked at him. “I’ll...think about it.” She walked off to class. Vlad wasn’t too far behind her.

Class was starting, and Ms. Bustier walked into the classroom with a skip in her step. “There’s something new about Ms. Bustier” Alya said.

“Yeah, she seems even cheerier than usual” Nino said.

“You don’t think…” Marinette said.

Adrien raised his hand. “Ms. Bustier. You seem different today. Why’s that?”

“Oh, you noticed” Ms. Bustier said. Her eyes shifted. “Well, to be honest, I’ve been seeing someone recently.” The entire class clapped for her. “Thank you class. Anyway, we had a date last night, and it went very well.”

“What’s their name? Who asked out who? What happened on the date?” Rose asked.

“Rose, settle down” Ms. Bustier said. Rose stopped asking questions. “We’ve only been on a few dates so far, so I’m not ready to divulge that information quite yet. Although, things have been going so well. I wouldn’t be surprised…”

“Surprised if what?” Alix asked.

Ms. Bustier sighed. “If he’s the one.”

The class collectively went “Awwwww.”

“Ahem. Yes. Well. Anyway, we should get started” Ms. Bustier said.

During their break, Vlad was at his booth. Nathaniel and Marc walked up. “Hey Vlad” Nathaniel said.

“Hey Nathaniel. Marc. What’s up?” Vlad said.

Nathaniel and Marc looked at each other. “Marc and I started dating. We wanted to sign up for the parade.”

“Really?” Vlad said. “Congratulations. Might I also interest you in a pin?” Vlad held up a gay pin.

“I’m bi” Nathaniel said.

“Sorry. My mistake” Vlad said. He put down the gay pin and picked up a bi one. “Here you go.”

“Thanks” Nathaniel said. Nathaniel got his pin, they signed up, and went off.

They passed by Marinette and Alya. “Marinette!” Marc said. “Thanks.”

Marinette immediately knew what was going on. She smiled and said “You’re welcome. But you did this by yourself.”

Marc smiled back. “Thanks. I hope things go well with you.” He leaned back on Nathaniel’s arm and they continued walking.

“They’re so cute together” Marinette said.

“I’ll say” Alya said. “You know, first Ms. Bustier, then Marc and Nathaniel. I think love is in the air. Today is the perfect day to confess to Adrien.”

“You’re right Alya” Marinette said. “First thing after school.”

The bell rang. “Come on. We’ve gotta get back to class.” The two walked over to the classroom.

After school, Adrien left right away. “Marinette. Go” Alya said.

Marinette chased Adrien. “Adrien wai-” she bumped into Adrien and fell to the ground.

“Yes Marinette?” Adrien said, helping her off of the ground.

Marinette got up. She stared at Adrien and gulped. “Well...here’s the thing…” she said. She took a breath. “I just need to say it. Adrien. I’m in love with you.” Adrien’s mouth hung agape. “And not like I have a little crush on you, I’m in LOOOOOOOOOOOVE with you. To the point where it’s a little weird. But I figured I needed to tell you at some point, otherwise I’d go through life regretting everything. And I MEAN everything. I hope that you’ll say it back, but I’m prepared if you don’t…” Marinette stood there waiting for something.

Adrien was confused. This was an unambiguous confession of love coming from Marinette. Once she got going, she didn’t trip over her words. She was confident. She knew what she was doing, and Adrien’s heart skipped a beat. He started to blush. However, he said “Marinette…” He sighed. “I appreciate the thought and the effort it took for you to get to this point. But there’s this other girl I like.” Marinette started to tear up. “However, she doesn’t have that much of an interest in me, and everyone I’ve talked to about it says I should give up. And I want to. And you’ve just made it easier. But I still need to think this out. This isn’t a ‘No.’ This is a ‘Maybe.’ Once I settle this, I’ll give you an answer. Is that OK?” Marinette was breathless. She nodded. “Thanks.” Adrien said. He left.

Alya walked up to Marinette and said “Well, it wasn’t as bad as it could be, right?”

Marinette looked down. “He likes someone else.”

“Yeah, but she doesn't like him back” Alya said. “He just needs to think things through, like he said. Are you OK?”

“Yeah” Marinette said.

“Do you need anything?” Alya asked.

“No. I just want to be alone right now” Marinette said. She walked to her locker.

She grabbed what she needed to get out of her locker and closed it. Hey” Vlad said.

“GAH!” Marinette said.

“I saw what happened back there,” Vlad said. “Wanna talk about it?”

Marinette smiled. “No. That’s OK. I just want to be alone right now.”

Vlad smiled back. “Very well. If you need anything, I’m available.” He walked out of the locker room.

Tikki popped out and said “Marinette that was very brave of you.”

“Yeah” Marinette said.

“Are you feeling alright?” Tikki asked.

“I’ll be fine. But I need to put on a brave face” Marinette said, giving Tikki a look.

“I understand” Tikki said, nodding.

“Tikki! Spots on!” Marinette said. She turned into Ladybug and left the building.

When Adrien was far enough away from school he took out Plagg. “Can you believe it Plagg? Marinette confessed to me.”

“Why didn’t you say yes?” Plagg asked, sternly.

“Because, I want to figure out my deal with Ladybug” Adrien said.

“She said she wasn’t interested. She said she liked another boy. Why do you still pine for her?” Plagg said.

“Well, it’s almost faded” Adrien said. “But a small part of me hold onto hope.”

“Oh good grief” Plagg said.

Adrien spotted Ladybug swinging through the air. “I know. I’ll talk to Ladybug about this” he said.

Plagg was in disbelief. “I don’t think that’s such a good idea kid.”

“Oh, what do you know about love?” Adrien said. “Plagg! Claws out!” He turned into Cat Noir and started heading in Ladybug’s direction

Ladybug landed on a roof and sat down. “Hey Ladybug” Cat Noir said.

“Go away Cat Noir. I’m not in the mood” Ladybug said.

Cat Noir was shocked. “I just needed someone to talk to.”

“Well, I want to be alone right now” Ladybug said. “I haven’t had the best day.”

“Wanna talk about it?” Cat Noir said.

“No! I told you Cat Noir. I want to be left alone for right now” Ladybug said.

“You don’t have to be rude, you know!” Cat Noir said.

“I’m kind of going through something right now! I can act how I want!” Ladybug said.

Meanwhile, a guy with brown shoulder-length hair, a light blue jacket and pants to match, a black shirt underneath, a watch, and black dress shoes was walking down the street with some flowers. “I sure hope Caline likes these,” he said. “Hopefully she won’t get too mad that I left something at her place last night.” He continued walking and stopped at Ms. Bustier’s house. He looked through the window and saw her with another man. A big buff man with short orange hair, wearing a tan jacket and pants with a black shirt. Caline then picked up a young girl while a young boy walked up to her. The guy outside could not believe it. His heart was shattered.

“Well well, someone who just found out they were a toy in someone’s game. A pawn used just for love. How cruel” Hawk Moth said. “Fly away, little Akuma, and evilize him!”

The Akuma flew to the guy and fused with his watch. “Homewrecker! I am Hawk Moth. I’m giving you the power to smash through relationships, especially ones where infidelity is present. In return, you are going to give me Ladybug and Cat Noir’s miraculous.”

“I won’t cheat you on that, Hawk Moth” the guy said. The purple-black aura formed around him.

Vlad was walking around when he saw someone Akumatizing. “This is bad” He said. He hid behind a wall and called “Beyyo! Fangs Sharpen!” He transformed into Judgement Wolf.

Homewrecker appeared out of the aura. He had an orange skintight suit, with yellow gloves, yellow boots, a yellow hardhat, a yellow safety vest with a broken heart symbol on the back, a sledgehammer, and his watch. He took his sledgehammer and broke down the door to Ms. Bustier’s house. Ms. Bustier, the man, and the children looked at the damage and the man coming in. “Hello, darling!” Homewrecker said.

“Hugo?” Caline said.

“I was” Homewrecker said. ‘But then I found out I was just a piece of meat to you. Something to have fun with on the side while you enjoy your life with your family. Now? Now I’m Homewrecker. And I’m here to ruin that relationship.”

“Hugo, please, just listen” Caline said.

“Shut up!” Homewrecker said. “Talking is over! It’s time for action.”

He swung his sledgehammer down, but Judgement Wolf dived through the window and blocked him. “Run!” he said.

Ms. Bustier and her guests ran outside.

“Get out of my way, wolfy. This is justified” Homewrecker said.

“Violence is never justified” Judgement Wolf said. Outside, they heard a car start. They saw the man Ms. Bustier had over driving off with her and the kids. Homewrecker ran outside to chase them, while Judgement Wolf was not to far behind.

“Do you think Marinette will be alright?” Nino asked.

“Yeah” Alya said. “She’s gotten really tough since I first met her.” They then saw the car racing down the street. Then Homewrecker. Then Judgement Wolf. Nino and Alya looked at each other, knowing what to do.

The man kept driving, but Homewrecker wasn’t too far behind them. He threw his hammer and took out one of the wheels. He then summoned his hammer back to him.“Get out!” He demanded. The four got out. “Heh” he said. He picked up his hammer and was about to strike, but Carapace blocked it with his shield “Run!” The group ran away.

“Don’t get in my way, turtle boy!” Homewrecker said. He smashed his hammer on the ground, causing pillars to erupt at Carapace. Carapace used his shield to cut through them, but Homewrecker jumped up.

Luckily, Rena Rouge appeared from above and smack him down to the street. “Is it OK for me to get in your way?” she said. Homewrecker growled and began to fight the two.

Judgement Wolf struck Homewrecker from behind. “You didn’t forget about me, did you?” Homewrecker struck the ground, creating a hole that blasted away the three heroes.

“Where’s Ladybug and Cat Noir?” Rena asked.

“Good question” Judgement Wolf replied. “Keep him busy. I’ll find out.” He jumped out of the way. Rena and Carapace readied up to fight Homewrecker.

They charged him. “I thought I told you to stay out of my way!” Homewrecker said, swinging his hammer at them, Carapace jumped while Rena Rouge ducked under it, and they struck him, pushing him back.

“We make a good team” Rena said.

“Totally” Carapace said. The two did an intricate fist bump.

“So, you’re lovebird heroes, huh?” Homewrecker said. “Well, I can fix that.”

“Why would that be fixing anything?” Carapace asked.

“Because you think you love someone, but then she has a husband and kids she doesn’t tell you about!” Homewrecker said. “Love always ends in heartbreak!”

“Um, I hate to tell you this, but it doesn’t” Rena Rouge said.

“Shut up! I don’t want to hear it!” Homewrecker said. They charged each other.

Meanwhile, Ladybug and Cat Noir were still having a shouting match. “I told you! I want to be left alone!” Ladybug said.

“I need to talk to someone!’ Cat Noir said.

“Find someone else!” Ladybug responded.

“You’re the one I want to talk about this with!” Cat Noir spoke back.

Ladybug’s yo-yo went off. She picked it up. “Hello?”

“WHERE ARE YOU?!” Judgement Wolf screamed from the other side. “We’ve got a situation!”

Once they stopped screaming, Ladybug and Cat Noir could hear the commotion going on. “Sorry. Cat Noir and I got into  little fight, and-”

“We don’t have time for that!” Judgement Wolf said. “Just get down here!” He hung up.

“An Akuma?” Cat Noir said.

“Yeah” Ladybug said. “We’ll figure this out later.” Ladybug and Cat Noir left.

Rena was knocked to the ground. “Well well” Homewrecker said. He lifted his hammer and began to swing down.

Before it could land, Carapace got in his way and called out “Shell-ter!” Homewrecker’s sledgehammer landed on the barrier and it bounced off of it, flying back.

Rena picked up her flute and played it. “Mirage!” She flung the mirage forward, and then a lot of copies of the sledgehammer littered the streets. “Good luck finding the real one,” she said.

Homewrecker panicked and tried grabbing his hammer, only for it to be a mirage each time. Judgement Wolf picked up the real one and said “Good thing I can tell.” He then smacked Homewrecker across the street with it. Cat Noir and Ladybug arrived. “Finally.”

“Sorry again” Ladybug said.

“Ladybug! Cat Noir! You finally showed up!” Homewrecker said. He summoned his hammer back to him. “Hawk Moth wants your miraculous.”

“And we want to stop you! Let’s see who gets what they want!” Ladybug said. “Lucky Charm! A teacup?”

“Does it come with a tempest?” Cat Noir said.

Ladybug looked at Homewrecker and noticed his watch. “I’m betting the Akuma is in the watch.”

“Let’s hope it’s not a bad bet” Cat Noir.

“Cat Noir. Keep his attention while I figure out what to do with this!” Ladybug commanded.

“On it” Cat Noir said.

“Me too” Judgement Wolf replied. They went to meet him. They battled him, and eventually Rena Rouge and Carapace joined in.

Ladybug looked around. She saw a cafe and ran towards it. “Cat Noir! Follow me!”

Cat Noir looked at Ladybug and said “ Coming!” He ran off. Homewrecker was confused. He knocked away the other heroes and chased after them

Cat Noir met Ladybug in the cafe.”Cat Noir. I need to to be ready on the other side of the counter.” Cat Noir nodded and took his position. “One Chamomile tea please” Ladybug asked the clerk, giving him the teacup. “As fast as possible.”

“Sure thing, Ladybug!” the clerk said. He got some tea for her. “Here you go.”

“Thanks” Ladybug said. She started drinking it. “Ah!”

Homewrecker walked in and smelled Ladybug’s Chamomile tea. “That’s Caline’s favorite… GAH!” He said, charging at Ladybug.

“Cat Noir!” Ladybug said.

“Cataclysm!” Cat Noir said. He destroyed one of the machines, which caused a stream of hot water to blast in Homewrecker’s face.

Ladybug lifted the watch off of Homewrecker and destroyed it, freeing the Akuma. “No more evildoing for you, little Akuma. Time to de-evilize! Gotcha! Bye bye, little butterfly. Miraculous Ladybug!” She threw the teacup in the air. The Ladybugs fixed the damage caused by Homewrecker.

“What happened?” Hugo said, returning to himself.

“Pound it!” Ladybug and Cat Noir said.

“Homewrecker my have lost” Hawk Moth said. “But I will never end up like him!”

Ladybug and Cat Noir walked Hugo out of the cafe. “Hugo?” Ms. Bustier said, returning with the people that were in her house.

“Listen Caline. I don’t want to be a footnote in someone else’s happiness” Hugo said. “And when I saw you with your husband, I panicked. So, as much fun as we’ve had recently, I’m afraid it’s over between us.”

Ms. Bustier smiled. “I was trying to tell you earlier. This is my brother.”

“What?” Hugo said.

“His wife is in the hospital right now” Ms. Bustier said. “He wanted to visit her, and he asked me to look after his kids.”

“Oh” Hugo said. “I’m so embarrassed. I’m sorry.”

“It’s OK” Ms. Bustier said. “It happens to the best of us. Why, I once tried to get all of Paris to love each other and turned them into love zombies.”

“Yeah. I remember” Hugo said. “Listen, I’m sorry. Do you still wanna go out with me?”

Ms. Bustier smiled. Of course” she said. “But, why were you outside my house anyway?”

“Oh. That” Hugo said. “Well, I accidentally left my keys at your place. I was coming to see if I can get them back.”

Ms. Bustier smiled. “Why don’t you come and spend the day with Geraldine, Rupert and I?”

“Can I?” Hugo asked.

“Well, it’s up to Leo” Ms. Bustier said.

Ms. Bustier’s brother sighed and said “Well, you talked him up so much, and he seems like a nice guy. What the heck.”

“Thanks Leo” Ms. Bustier said.

Geraldine and Rupert were hiding behind Ms. Bustier. Hugo lowered himself and said “Sorry I scared you earlier. What can I do to make up for it?”

The kids looked at each other Rupert said “Can we go to the merry-go-round?”

“We can do whatever you want” Hugo said.

The kids smiled. “Thanks Mr. Hugo” Rupert said. The four of them walked off, while Leo got back in his care to visit his wife.

“What a sweet ending” Cat Noir said.

“Indeed” Judgement Wolf said, appearing behind Ladybug and Cat Noir. “Now, what can we learn from this?”

Ladybug and Cat Noir looked at each other. “Right” Ladybug said. Ladybug and Cat Noir’s miraculous started beeping. “Can we talk about this later?”

“Nope” Judgement Wolf said.

“Where is Rena Rouge and Carapace?” Cat Noir asked.

“They left when the ladybugs appeared. They used their powers earlier” Judgment Wolf said. “Now let’s go!” Judgement Wolf grabbed Ladybug and Cat Noir and dragged them off. They went into an ally, and Judgement Wolf hid them from each other as they detransformed. “Feed your kwamis. Then we’ll talk.” They fed Tikki and Plagg and then transformed back. “Now. What was all of this about?”

“Well, I wanted someone to talk to, and I saw Ladybug and figured I should talk to her” Cat Noir said.

“I was having kind of a bad day and I wanted to be alone” Ladybug said. “I’m sorry I took it out on you.”

“It’s OK” Cat Noir said. “I should have been more understanding with you. I’m sorry you had a bad day.”

Ladybug smiled. “It’s OK. It might not be all bad.”

“Are we good?” Judgement Wolf said. The two nodded. “Good. I don’t want to see your teamwork dissolve over some argument. Cat Noir! I’ll lend you an ear. Then I’ll talk to Ladybug. I’ve got some stuff I need to tell her anyway. Are we clear?”

“Yeah” Ladybug said.

“Alright. Let’s move out!” Judgement Wolf said.

Ladybug went her own way, while Cat Noir and Judgement Wolf went to Adrien’s house. They destransformed and entered from the front door. “It’s funny” Adrien said. “I’m so used to going through my window that coming in through the door after a fight seems weird to me.”

 “So, what do you want to talk about?” Vlad asked.

“Riiiiiiight” Adrien said. “Marinette kind of confessed her love for me.”

“I know. I saw the whole thing” Vlad said.

“You don’t sound surprised. Did you know?” Adrien asked.

“As far as I know, you’re the only one that didn’t know” Vlad said. Adrien pouted. Vlad chuckled. “Still, what are you going to do?”

“I don’t know” Adrien said. “I want to talk to Ladybug about this, but she’s not in the mood to listen.”

“Why Ladybug?” Vlad asked.

“I want to be sure that my feelings for Ladybug can be put on hold” Adrien said. “I’ve kind of started notice Marinette as more than just a friend, and when she confessed to me, it was a surprise. I just want to be sure that it's right, you know?”

Vlad smiled. “Tell you what. I’ll talk to Ladybug and see when she wants to meet with you. How does that sound?”

Adrien smiled. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Great” Vlad said.”Seeya.” He left.

He headed to Marinette’s place. “Hi” Marinette said, answer the door.

“Let’s head upstairs” Vlad said. They did.

“What did Cat Noir say?” Marinette asked.

“He wanted to talk with you about something” Vlad said. “But he’s willing to wait for you to want to talk to him again.”

Marinette smiled. “That’s sweet of him.”

“So, how are you feeling?” Vlad asked.

“To be honest, I feel alright” Marinette said. “Adrien didn’t immediately turn me down, I helped save Paris again, and I got to meet Ms. Bustier’s boyfriend. He seems nice.”

“Indeed” Vlad said. “Tell you what. Let me talk to Adrien. I might get to the bottom of his issues.”

“Really? You’d do that for me?” Marinette said.

“Of course” Vlad said. “What are friends for?”

Marinette hugged Vlad. “Thank you thank you thank you!” she said.

Vlad broke the hug. “OK sweetie” he said.

“Didn’t you say you had other information for us?” Tikki asked.

“Oh, yeah” Vlad said. “Two things. One, Kagami’s mom knows she’s Ryuko.”

“Oh no!” Marinette said.

“Relax” Vlad said. “The other thing is she has some artifacts relating to the miraculous. She knows some things. So I don’t think we have to worry about her telling anyone.”

Marinette sighed. “Good.”

“I told her you’d go and look at it” Beyyo said.

“I’ll check it out. Thanks guys” Marinette said.

“You’re welcome” Beyyo said.

“Well, we gotta get going” Vlad said.

“Take care” Marinette said.

Once Vlad was out of the building and walking home, Beyyo came up to him and asked “What are you going to do?”

“What do you mean you can’t?” Kagami asked on the phone.

“I already have plans for today” Adrien answered from his place. “But don’t worry, I’ll have one of my friends come and help you. He’s the best when it comes to this. I’ll have him meet you at the Place des Vosges.”

Kagami was a little disappointed. Still, she said “Thanks Adrien. I’ll see you at fencing practice?”

“Of course. Can’t wait” Adrien said. They hung up. Adrien immediately sent a text.

Kagami looked down then determined. “What was that about?” Tomoe asked, coming in.

“I was just talking to Adrien” Kagami said. “I was hoping he would help me select a video game for me. He’s sending on of his friends though because he’s busy.”

“Very well” Tomoe said.

“Mom” Kagami said. “I know you know.”

“Know what, dear?” Tomoe asked.

“Don’t pretend” Kagami said. “Look, I know you think I’m still just a little girl who needs to be protected. But I’m not. And I think we both know that. I still have a long ways to go, but I can’t get anywhere if I’m still being treated like I’m seeing everything for the first time. I have to have room to grow. Room to fail. Room to live.”

Tomoe looked at her daughter. “Very well” she said. “I know you’re Ryuko. I found out last night when I caught Judgement Wolf sneaking in here. Of course, I had my suspicions earlier. Don’t worry. I won’t tell anyone. I know how important it is to keep that secret safe.” She took a pause. “Perhaps I’ve been sheltering you a bit. Go out and buy your video game.”

Kagami smiled and said “Thanks.” She left.

Vlad was out walking. Beyyo popped up and asked “Are you going to tell Marinette about last night?”

“I’d like to, but I got a shoot all day” Vlad said. “I’ll just tell her tomorrow. Besides, I’m sure she’s busy. She’s probably working up the courage to talk to Adrien tomorrow. Say, I have an idea. Since I’m going to be busy all day, why don’t you go out and find King Monkey and Ryuko.”

“Are you sure? What if something happens?” Beyyo said.

“It’ll be fine” Vlad said. “You can travel fast. And besides, we can run a little late.”

“Very well” Beyyo said. He flew off.

Chloe appeared in front of the gate of the Agreste manor and rang the doorbell. When the camera popped out she said “Um, I’m here to see Adrien.” The camera disappeared and the gate opened and she walked in.

She made her way to Adrien’s room. “Hi Chloe” he said.

Marinette was pacing back and forth in her room. “Marinette, what’s wrong?” Tikki asked.

“Well Tikki, I’m going to confess to Adrien tomorrow” Marinette said. “I mean, I knew this day had to come, but I never thought it would get here.”

“Relax Marinette. If you don’t feel comfortable, you can just put it off” Tikki said.

“No” Marinette said. “I made a promise. A hero always keeps her promises.”

“Way to go Marinette” Tikki said.

Marinette thought about it. “Although, a hero can always use some help.” She got out her phone and started calling.

Kagami was waiting in the Place des Vosges. “Hello” Max said, approaching her. Kagami looked at him. “Adrien asked me to meet you here” he elaborated. “I’m Max.” He extended his hand.

Kagami reciprocated and the two shook. “Right. I saw you at the match on Friday.”

“Oh, you were there?” Max said.

“Yeah. Adrien asked me to come” Kagami said.

“Really?” Max said.

“Yeah” Kagami said. “My name’s Kagami.”

“Well, Kagami, shall we head to the store?” Max said. The two walked off.

Alya and Marc were sitting in Marinette’s room. “OK. The reason I asked you two here is that I’m about to ask Adrien out, and I need some help” Marinette said.

“Sure thing, girl” Alya said.

“Um, why did you invite me?” Marc said.

“Because Marc, I made a promise to you” Marinette said. “I don’t want to let you down. I saw how nervous you were talking to Nathaniel. But you did it. I want to find some of that courage in me.”

“Oh, well, uh…” Marc trailed off. “Thanks? But it wasn’t really courage. I was scared the entire time.”

“But, you did it anyway” Alya said. “Which IS courageous.”

“Yeah” Marinette said. “So please. I need some help.”

“Um… OK” Marc said.

Marinette gave him a hug and said “Thanks Marc.”

Chloe was staring at Adrien. “Are we going to talk, or…?” Adrien said.

Chloe knew she had to do this. For herself. For her class. For Paris. “So, do you know why I’m here?” she asked, nervously.

“Well, I have an idea” Adrien said. “Judgement Wolf told me about what he and Ladybug were planning.”

Chloe was nervous. “What did he tell you exactly?”

“Well, he told me a bit about the first test” Adrien said. “He also told me that you like girls, which I already kind of knew, but he didn’t tell me the full extent of the second test.”

“I see” Chloe said. “Well, it is as you say. I am a lesbian.”

“If that was the case, then why try getting my affections?” Adrien asked.

“It’s complicated” Chloe said.

“We have all day” Adrien said.

Chloe sighed. “I guess I should start from the beginning. As you know, my parents expect a lot out of me. Moreso my mom, but I think my dad expects me to act in a certain way. And when I discovered this about myself, I got really scared. I was afraid that they wouldn’t love me. And if they couldn’t love me, then who would? And that’s when I began to change.

I was worried that everyone would hate me for who I was. So, I decided to accentuate the worst parts about myself. I figured that if people were going to hate me for being nice, I might as well be mean and deserve whatever hate comes my way.”

“So, you were trying to push me away?” Adrien asked.

“Maybe” Chloe said, tearing up. “I don’t know.” She buried herself in Adrien and started bawling. “I mean, I felt like I wanted to, but when you threatened to actually let me go, I realized I didn’t want that.”

Adrien hugged Chloe. “It’s OK Chloe. Just let it out. I won’t hate you.”

Chloe sniffled. “More than anything, I think me constantly asking you out was a cry for help” Chloe said. “I wanted you to notice I was in trouble. So you could save me before I did something I would regret.”

Adrian gasped. “I’m sorry Chloe. I didn’t realize” Adrien said. “I should have been a better friend. But I’m here now, and I’m supporting you the whole way.”

Chloe smiled, her eyes still red. “Thanks Adrien” she said. “Although, I can’t say I’m too surprised. You’re kind of oblivious.”

“I’m...not...THAT oblivious...am I?” Adrien said.

Chloe laughed. “It’s fine, Adrien. You have your own problems with your parents that you have to deal with. I can’t expect you to save me when I’m drowning when you’re drowning as well.”

Adrien thought about it. He looked at the ring on his finger and what it means. I should be able to save people. Even when I’m in trouble. I protected Marinette in my dream, even though Ladybug was dead. I need to be there for the people I care about. He put his hand on her shoulders. “Really Chloe. I’m sorry. I got so wrapped up in what’s troubling me that I didn’t even see you drowning right beside me. You know I would have tried to save you if I had.”

Chloe thought about it. “Yeah…” she said.

“Wanna talk some more?” Adrien asked.

“About what?” Chloe asked.

“I dunno. Just anything” Adrien sat down. Chloe sat down next to him.

Meanwhile, Kagami and Max arrived at the electronics store. “I come here all of the time. This is the place I trust the most when it comes to anything technological” Max said. Kagami was taking in the store. “Shall we?” Max said. The two walked in and Max guided her to the video games section. “Now, is there anything that might limit you in what kind of gaming experience you want?”

“Well, I don’t know how much Adrien told you, but this is going to be my first video game experience. So, maybe a lack of skill might be an issue” Kagami said.

“Right, Adrien told me that” Max said. “But no, what I’m asking is are there any financial issues that might burden you.”

“Money isn’t an object” Kagami said.

“Oh. Well… that’s blunt” Max said. “OK. So, I assume you aren’t as technologically adapt, so I’d think the best course of action is a console rather than a gaming PC. Is that OK with you?”

Kagami shrugged. “You’re the expert.”

“Right. Very well” Max said.

They made their way to the video game section when Kagami saw someone. “Um, I think she was at the match on Friday as well,” she said.

Max turned and saw Katelyn playing one of the demos. “Oh” he said.

Katelyn finished the demo. She looked up and saw Max and Kagami. Max waved awkwardly. “Oh. Hi” she said.

“OK Marinette, let’s try this again” Alya said. “I’ll be Adrien. Ahem. Marinette? Is there something you wanted to say to me?”

“Yes, well…” Marinette said. “GAH! I can’t do it. No matter how many times I try, I always stumble.”

“It’s OK Marinette” Alya said.

“If it’s too hard, you don’t have to…” Marc said.

“No! I made a promise. I intend to keep it” Marinette said. “Marc, how did you do it?”

Marc thought about it for a moment. “Honestly, it was a lot of things,” he said. “I’ve been working with Nathaniel for a while. I’ve gotten more used to him. That’s part of it.” Marinette nodded. “But more than that, I realized that the pain I was feeling now about not telling him was greater than any rejection I could face. That, and I had help.”

“Help how?” Marinette asked.

“Well, there was you, who helped me make a comic book with Nathaniel” Marc began. “Plus, you’ve always been generally supportive. My other friends support me as well. Then there was Vlad, who reassured me when I was too nervous to buy this pin from him. But what really truly helps me a lot of the time is thinking about Ladybug.” Marinette was surprised. “Ladybug does so much for our city. She’s so brave in the face of danger. When someone is having a bad day and turns into an Akuma, she reminds me that you have to look at the positives in life. She would have wanted me to confess to Nathaniel, and she would want you to confess to Adrien. It might seem painful, but Ladybug has to go through countless painful experiences so that Paris can be safe. Ah! I’m sorry. I rambled on.”

Marinette thought about what Marc had said. She couldn’t believe she made such an impression. She knew people liked her, but this was on a whole nother level. Then again, Marc is a writer, so he knew how to express ideas in such a beautiful way. She saw Tikki hiding and Tikki nodded. “No. It’s fine” Marinette said. “I actually needed that. Thank you so much. I feel like I’m ready now.”

“Oh… Well… your welcome then” Marc said.

Beyyo was flying around looking for Kim or Kagami. “How hard could it be to find two people in a city of 2 million?” he said, sarcastically. He then spotted Kim running. “If you say it, it will come. Though, I’ve been flying around all day. I guess I could take a little rest.” Beyyo flew into Kim’s hood and started to nap. Kim noticed right away though, and reached into his hood and picked up Beyyo. “What? I just got here?”

“HI there. You wouldn’t by chance be Judgement Wolf’s kwami, would you?” Kim asked.

Beyyo sighed. “Yeah. I am.”

“So, did I pass your standards?” Kim asked.

“Yeah kid” Beyyo said. “You’re brave, but not dumb enough to cause trouble if it isn’t needed.”

“You seem tired. Are you OK?” Kim asked.

“Well,” Beyyo said, “I’ve been flying around for… what time is it?”

Kim checked the time. “It’s almost 2 pm,” Kim said.

“Jeez, I’ve been flying around for like four hours, trying to find you and Ryuko” Beyyo said. “I’m a little tired.”

Kim smiled. “No problem. You can sleep in my hood if you want. Though I am going to stop by the electronics store later. My friend Max wanted me to help him with something, but I wanted to get a good run in, so we agreed to meet there.”

“Very well” Beyyo said. He fell asleep in Kim’s hands. Kim put him in his hood and continued running.

“So, you like this place too?” Katelyn said.

“Yeah. It’s the best” Max said. “What brings you here today?”

Katelyn looked down and said, “Well, since Carter put the Nighthawks on hiatus, I don’t know what to do with myself. I became listless. I just came here to get out of my head for a minute.”

“Ah. Well, sorry about all of that” Max said.

“You don’t have to apologize” Katelyn said. “You know as well as anyone that Carter is to blame for what happened.”

“Yeah… But, he seems to be trying to mend those fences” Max said.

“I guess” Katelyn said.

“These things take time,” Max said.

“Yeah” Katelyn responded. She saw Kagami. “Who is she?”

“Friend of a friend” Max said. “I’m helping her pick out a video game.”

“Oh, what one?” Katelyn asked.

“Well, we’re unsure,” Max said.

Katelyn scoffed. “What. It’s not like she’s never played a video game before.” Max and Kagami looked around awkwardly. “Oh. Well, here, why don’t you try some demos and see what you like” Katelyn said, moving aside so Kagami could play some demos.

Kagami stepped forward, picked up the controller, and said “Thanks.”

“Marinette?” Adrien said.

“Yeah” Chloe said. “I had a crush on her. Like big time. I guess that’s why I acted the meanest to her. I wanted to push her away before she pushed me away. In fact, that’s what my second test was about.”

“How did Judgement Wolf know that you liked Marinette?” Adrien asked.

“He didn’t” Chloe said. “He just asked me what my ideal interaction with Marinette would be and it lead to him finding that out.”

“I see” Adrien said.

“To be honest, I think I’m starting to like Sabrina more in that way” Chloe said. “She said she’d always be by my side, but I’m still too afraid to say anything.”

Adrien smiled. “You wanna know something?” he said. “Remember the fashion show?” Chloe nodded. “Remember when your mother was immediately taken with Marinette after you spent all day trying to get her attention?” Chloe started to get upset. “It’s because Marinette was herself. You were hiding behind this persona. And granted, while it does contain pieces of the real you, it’s not the whole thing. Your mother respect authenticity. I’m sure that if you were real with her, she’ll respect you more. The same goes for your father.”

Chloe looked down. “Yeah… But I don’t feel ready to tell them just yet.”

“And that’s OK. These things take time” Adrien said. He took her hand. “Just know I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

Chloe looked at Adrien and smiled. “Thanks Adrien. Although, I was thinking of telling a few people. I might even tell Sabrina now. I feel less afraid knowing you’re behind me.”

“Really? That’s great!” Adrien said.

“Yeah, well, I need to figure out what I want to say and how to say it” Chloe said.

“It’s OK. Take your time” Adrien said. Chloe smiled.

Kagami was playing one of the demos. “YES!” she said. “Got another one! I’ve made my decision. I want this one.” Max and Katelyn were surprised. “What’s with that look?”

“Well, it’s just that game is kind of hard,” Max said.

“There are easy options” Katelyn said.

“Yeah, but I don’t know if she’ll get turned off by that” Max said.

“Well, she’s enjoying it, isn’t she?” Katelyn said.

Max smiled. “You’re right. That’s the most important thing.”

“So, can I get it?” Kagami asked.

“Sure” Max said.

Kim arrived. He found a place to hide and woke Beyyo up. “Hey. We’re here. You can continue your search now.”

Beyyo woke up and said “Thanks.” Kim went off to find Max. Beyyo was about to fly out when he saw Kagami. “Well, I guess it’s my lucky day. He flew over, careful not to get spotted.

“Hey Max” Kim said. “You wanted me to come over.”

“Yeah, um, we already figured it out,” Max said. “Sorry to drag you out here.”

“It’s OK” Kim said. “I was running by here anyway.” He then noticed Katelyn. “What’s she doing here?”

“Oh, well, we kind of bumped into each other,” Max said. “She’s the one who helped me in the end.” Katelyn blushed.

Kim noticed this. “I see.”

“Oh right” Max said. “Kim, this is Kagami She’s the one Adrien asked us to help.”

“Oh. Pleasure to meet you” Kim said.

“Likewise” Kagami replied.

“Well, we’re almost ready to go” Katelyn said. “We just need to pick up a few things and we’ll be off.”

“Cool. I’m going to pick up a date movie for me and Ondine while I’m here. Meet you at the register?”

“Sure” Max said. Kim left to browse the movies.

Max and Katelyn were busy picking out the system and the necessary accessories when Kagami spotted Beyyo out of the corner of her eye. She discreetly approached him and said “What’s the consensus?”

“You passed” Beyyo said. “Did you talk to you mom?”

“Yes. I think we’ve gotten closer” Kagami said.

Beyyo nodded. “That’s all I needed to hear.” Beyyo flew off. Kagami rejoined Max and Katelyn.

The left the store after buying what they came for. “Do you need help setting it up?” Max asked.

“I think I can manage” Kagami said.

“OK. Well, seeya” Max said. Kagami walked home with her purchases while Max, Kim, and Katelyn walked off in a different direction.

“Hey Katelyn” Max said. “Wanna come over to my place a bug-test this game I’ve been working on?”

A game YOU’VE been working on?” Katelyn said in surprise.

“Yeah. I’m actually presenting it at an exhibition this Friday” Max said.

“That sound hard” Katelyn said. “If you need help with the set-up, I could give the rest of the Nighthawks a call and ask. They’d probably be good for it.”

“Really?” Max said.

“Totally” Katelyn replied.

Kim smiled all the while and texted Ondine. “I picked up a movie for us to watch. Also, I think Max is hitting it off with the girl he fought on Friday.”

Ondine replied “Really? That’s great! Maybe we could get together sometime!”

Kim texted back “Hold on. They aren’t going out just yet. But when they are, I’ll be sure to ask them.” He then looked and saw Max and Katelyn walking side by side, enjoying each other’s company. He knew that moment would come soon.

Chloe gave Adrien a hug. “Thanks for today Adrien. I really needed it.”

“Of course. Anytime” Adrien said.

Chloe left the Agreste household and made her way back home. On her way, she bumped into Marc. “Ow. Watch where you’re going!”

“Sorry. Sorry. I’m so sorry!” Marc said.

Chloe realized that this guy was nervous and felt bad at yelling at him. “No. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have yelled at you.”

“It’s OK” Marc said.

Chloe noticed his gay pin. “Oh, so you’re gay too, huh.” Chloe then froze and then panicked. Why did I say ‘too’? GAH! I’m such a mess.

“You’re gay?” Marc said. Chloe nodded hesitantly. Marc started to chuckle.

“What is so funny?” Chloe said.

“I’m sorry” Marc said. “It’s just you remind me of me when I first told someone. You’ll get there. Don’t worry.” Chloe found his words oddly reassuring. “Hey, you know who could help? That new kid, Vlad. He’s very supportive.”

Chloe thought about that. She didn’t know Vlad too well. She knew he was Adrien’s friend, but she didn’t know too much else. But somehow, she trusted the nervous boy in front of her. “Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Well, see you around” Marc said. The two went their separate ways.

Beyyo flew through the city and found Vlad, who had just gotten done with his shoot. “So, how’d it go?” Vlad asked.

“It went surprisingly well” Beyyo said. “How about you?”

“Ah, well you know, same ol same ol” Vlad said. “Ready to head home?”

“Vlad?” said Adrien, confused, which in turn confused the two girls.

Vlad ran up the stairs and gave him a hug. “Man, it’s so good to see you again.”

“Adrien, aren’t you going to tell us who your BFF is here? I’m sure Nino will be jealous” said Alya.

“Sorry” said Adrien, breaking the hug. “This is Vlad. A fellow model. He’s from Toulouse, so I don’t get to see him terribly often. Just at high-end events. But, what are you doing here?”

Vlad smirked. “My family moved” he said. “We live here now, and I go to school here now. Isn’t it great? I didn’t expect to go to the same school as you. What are the chances?”

Adrien was shocked, but then he smiled and said “That’s great Vlad. Don’t hesitate to ask me anything. Or Marinette here, for that matter” he gestured towards her. “She’s the class rep.”

“Is that so?” said Vlad, looking at Marinette.

“Come on” said Adrien. “We better get to class before the bell rings.” The four walked over to class.

At the beginning of class, Ms. Bustier introduces Vald. “This is Vlad Brodeur. He just moved here from Toulouse, and he’s joining our class today.” The class gives applause. “Since there’s no other room,” siad Ms. Bustier, “why don’t you sit next to Lila?”

Adrien grew worried. “Wait!” he said, surprising everyone else. “Um, it’s just that I think Vlad might benefit from being up front. So, I’ll move to the back.”

Marinette scowled at the thought of Adrien sitting next to Lila, but Vlad smiled. “It’s OK Adrien” he said. “I’ll be fine back there, trust me. Besides, if anything happens,” he said, turning to Ms. Bustier, “I’ll take full responsibility for it.”

“Well, I don’t see a problem then” said Ms. Bustier. “Please take your seat, and we’ll get started.” Vlad walked to his seat, while Adrien looked concerned. Marinette, meanwhile, is confused by all of this.

Later, at the start of a free period, Marinette is leaves the classroom and rushes to the library. Meanwhile, Lila begins talking with Vlad. “So, what was that about earlier with Adrien?”

“Oh, it’s nothing” said Vlad. “Adrien and I go back, so he knows me well. He thought I might have a problem sitting next to you.”

“What a silly thing to say,” said Lila, trying to hide her rage.

“Don’t worry about it. Adrien’s just a bit over overprotective. Which is odd, considering his dad.”

“Yeah, well you know what they say. ‘Like father, like son’” said Lila. “So, why was Adrien concerned?”

“Do you want me to be honest?” said Vlad. Lila nodded. “Well, I’m not the easiest person to get along with. And from what Adrien tells me, neither are you.” Lila was shocked, while Vlad continued to smirk. “Anyway, I gotta go. I need to talk with Marinette. Adrien says that within seconds of getting to know her we’ll be fast friends. I wanna see if that’s true” Lila grew furious as Vlad left.

Marinette was in the library, looking at fashion magazines and articles about Vlad. “Whatcha doin’ Marinette?” said Alya. This shocked Marinette, as she flung her materials about. Alya picked one up and said “Don’t tell me a third boy has caught your attention. Pretty soon, you’ll have your own ‘reverse harem’, as Nathaniel calls it.”

“Very funny” said Marinette. “It’s not that. Ever since Adrien was concerned about Vlad sitting next to Lila, I got curious.”

“Yeah, that was super weird” said Alya.

“So, I’m doing research on Vlad. I’m trying to figure out what the problem is. Maybe I could fix it” said Marinette. “I doubt it” she said under her breath.

“Why do you get it straight from the source?” said Vlad, showing up to meet them.

“Well, I, uh” said Marinette, flustered.

“It’s fine” said Vlad. “Miss, Alya was it?” Alya nodded. “Would you mind leaving the two of us alone?”

“No way! Marinette’s my friend! If you have something to say to her, you can say it to me” said Alya.

“It’s fine” said Marinette. “I’m sure Vlad would just like some privacy on the matter. It’s OK. I’ll be fine.”

“Well, if he’s as troublesome as you think, you run away and give me a call right away!” said Alya.

Alya left. Vlad sat down across from Marinette. “A lot of overprotective people today” he said.

“Well, when something’s worth protecting, you want to keep it safe” said Marinette.

“You mean that much to her? I like that” said Vlad.

“So, why was Adrien concerned about you sitting in the back?” Marinette asked.

“I’m going to be real” said Vlad. “I’m a bit rough around the edges sometimes. Adrien told me that Lila is a chronic liar. I just can’t stand people like that.”

“Oh” said Marinette, surprised by Vlad’s directness.

“Of course, it’s a little deeper than that,” said Vlad. “I’m not one who trusts people easily. I need to get to know them. Adrien has spoken highly of you-”

“Adrien spoke of me?!” said a giddy Marinette.

Vlad looked at this and laughed to himself. “But I want to hear from you. Why should I trust you as class rep?”

Marinette was taken aback by this question. She was confused on how to answer for a second, but then she thought to answer Vlad’s honesty with her own. “The truth is, if you got to know me, I don’t know how much you would trust me. I’m clumsy, and I’m prone to mistakes. But I love my class. I will fight for them, and do whatever it takes to make them happy. Or keep them safe…”

“Has the need for that arisen before?” Vlad asked.

“Well, yeah” said Marinette. “Before I became class rep, a villain attack our class. I somehow managed to organize everyone to keep them safe as long as I could before Ladybug and Cat Noir showed up.”

While Marinette was explaining the Dark Blade attack, a small yawn came from Vlad’s hoodie pocket. Then came the sniffing. A mysterious small creature kept to the shadows, and rose to Vlad’s head to whisper something in his ear. Vlad nodded to the creature. The creature then returned to Vlad’s pocket.

“So, basically, that’s what happened” said Marinette.

“Wow. Adrien was right about you” Vlad said. Marinette grew nervous. What did Adrien think about her? What did he tell Vlad? “You are easy to get along with. I’m sure we’ll become good friends.” Marinette sighed a sigh of relief.

Meanwhile, Adrien was chatting with Nino before Lila approached him. “Adrien. A word.”

“Sorry Nino” he said, before getting dragged off. Once they were alone, Adrien asked “Is this about Vlad?”

“What do you think?” Lila hissed.

“Look, Vald’s a nice guy, but he can be a bit forward sometimes” said Adrien. “I’m sure whatever he said, you can take it with a grain of salt.”

“He told me you told him I’m not the easiest person to get along with!” Lila howled. Adrien was shocked, and then determined.

Back in the library, Vlad gets a call. He checks his phone before answering. “It’s Adrien” he says. “Hey, do you want to listen in?”

“Ummmmmm” said Marinette.

“It’ll be fine” said Vlad. He puts the phone on speaker, and sets it on the table. “Hey Adrien. What’s up?” He gestures to Marinette to keep quiet.

“Did you tell Lila I said she wasn’t easy to get along with?” said Adrien

“Yeah. Isn’t that what you told me?” Vlad asked.

“I didn’t say that” said Adrien.

“You told me she lies a lot” said Vlad. “I don’t see the difference.”

Adrien looked at Lila, and covered his mouth. “Just because she lies doesn’t mean she’s not easy to get along with. I think that if we can show her kindness, she’ll change her ways.”

“Look Adrien, you know I love you and all, but you gotta stop giving people the benefit of the doubt” said Vlad.

“Maybe you should trust people more” said Adrien.

“Tomato, to-mah-to” said Vlad. “But I will say, you were right about Marinette.”

“Huh? You spoke to her?” said Adrien.

“Yeah. She’s with me now” said Vlad. “Say hi Marinette.”

“Uhhhhhh, hi?” said Marinette.

“See? We’re the best of friends” said Vlad.

“Yeah, well, don’t go around telling people I said things I didn’t say” said Adrien, hanging up. “Well, I just talked with him, and as I suspected it was a misunderstanding.”

“‘Misunderstanding’?” said Lila. “You told him something unflattering about me behind my back!”

“Well, uh, nobody’s perfect?” said Adrien.

Lila stormed off. “You’re going to regret this!” She entered the bathroom and made sure no one was there. She took out her phone and gave a call.

At the Agreste Manor, Gabriel receives a phone call. He answers it “Gabriel Agreste.”

“Akumatize me!” demanded Lila.

Gabriel smiled. “I thought I felt a vengeful presence.” He hangs up and goes into the elevator.

In Hawkmoth’s lair, the window opens and Hawkmoth monologues to himself. “I feel the presence of someone who just found out that people were talking about her behind her back.” He enfuses his energy into a butterfly. “Fly away my little Akuma, and evilize this poor soul!” The Akuma flies off. It arrives at Françoise Dupont High School, enters the girl’s restroom, and fuses with Lila’s phone.

“Receiver Deceiver! I am Hawkmoth. Somebody said something bad about you in an online message? Well, don’t worry. You’re not alone. And with your powers, you will be able to expose it all. All I ask for in return is Ladybug and Cat Noir’s miraculous!”

“It’s as good as done” said Lila. A purple-black aura forms around her. When it dissipates, we see a figure with blue boot, a jumpsuit that was orange on the sides and white in the middle, blue gloves, a blue ring on one hand, a blue phone in the other hand, and a blue cell phone screen where the head should be. The screen lights up to reveal an orange light and Lila’s face on the screen. She looks at her phone and gives it a call.

Class is starting and everyone takes their seats. Sabrina’s phone goes off. “Sabrina, why isn’t you phone silenced?” Ms. Bustier asked.

“It was,” said Sabrina. She took out her phone to see what was up. The screen flashed, and then Receiver Deceiver appeared out of it. The class gasped.

“I am Receiver Deceiver!” she said. “And I’m going to make you regret everything you say in secret! Starting with this!” Receiver Deceiver had a piece of mail in her hand. She opened it up, changed Lila’s face for Sabrina’s, and started reading it in Sabrina’s voice. “‘Thanks dad. After spending time with Chloe, I could use some ice cream. I mean, Chloe’s great and all, but today she’s just being meaner than usual. Maybe she’ll be nicer tomorrow. Love you!’”

Chloe was shocked at what she had heard. “Chloe, I-” said Sabrina.

“How COULD YOU?!” Chloe screamed. Receiver Deceiver then aimed her ring at Chloe and hit her with a beam Chloe’s eyes turned red. “YOU THINK I’M MEAN?! YOU DON’T EVEN KNOW THE MEANING OF THE WORD!” She charged at Sabrina, while Sabrina ran away from her.

“Too easy” said Receiver Deceiver.

Marinette looked stunned at what was happening. Alya had her phone out. “Alya?! What are you doing?!”

“I’m filming this for the Ladyblog! Ladybug is bound to show up soon” said Alya.

Receiver Deceiver saw this, and called Alya’s phone. She disappeared from where she was and was now hovering by Alya and Marinette. She had another piece of mail. She opened it, changed to Alya’s face, and started reading it in Alya’s voice. “‘Honestly Nino, what did you expect? I’m sure if Marinette were here on time, she’d trip over her own feet and drop the sweets. I  love her and all, but that girl is clumsy.” Alya looked at Marinette in disbelief.

“Alya…” said Marinette.

Vlad saw Receiver Deceiver ready her ring and aim it at Marinette. He got up from his seat and ran over. “LOOK OUT!”  he said, as he charged at Receiver Deceiver, who had fired her beam. Vlad was quick enough so that the beam hit him and that he tackled Receiver Deceiver. Since the message wasn’t about him, he wasn’t put under her control.

“What are you doing?” Receiver Deceiver asked.

“If you want to air some dirty laundry, why don’t we start with that ridiculous getup” said Vlad.

Marinette was shocked at what had just happened. She then looked at the class and came up with an idea. “EVERYONE! TURN OFF YOUR PHONES!” she yelled. Everyone looked toward her. “She might not be able to access a device that is off!” Vlad smiled. Everyone listened to Marinette and turned off their phone.

Receiver Deceiver grew angry. “Look at that, your plan worked Marinette” said Vlad.

“Don’t think you’re so lucky!” said Receiver Deceiver. She raced into the computer on Ms. Bustier’s desk.

“She got away” said Alya.

“Come on, we gotta warn the school!” said Marinette.

“Right. To the principal's office!” said Ms. Bustier. Everyone left the room. The last person to leave was Sabrina, who closed the door on Chloe. Chloe then glared at Sabrina once she got back up.

The students and Ms. Bustier ran to Mr. Damocles’s office. However, before they could open the door, Mr. Damocles rampaged out. “‘Childish?! Immature?! Not a good way to teach?!’ I’ll have you Ms. Bustier that Knightowl taught me countless valuable lessons as a kid. They are extremely applicable in teaching children!” Ms. Bustier was being confronted by Mr. Damocles.

The class saw Receiver Deceiver behind him. “Oops” she said, before disappearing into her phone.

“It’s no use, we can’t warn the school like this” said Alya.

“Uh, I think we’d be too late anyway” said Nino, looking down. Everyone else looked over to see a bunch of people with glowing red eyes congregating in the courtyard.

“We have to leave! It our only way of being safe” said Marinette.

“How are we going to get through them all?” Adrien asked.

“SABRINA!” growled Chloe. She was right in front of them now, and Mr. Damocles was on the other side.

Vlad got an idea. “Adrien! Orleans!” Adrien nodded in agreement, took off his white button up shirt, and gave it to Vlad. Vlad took off his own jacket and started tying the two together.

“Everyone, give your excess clothing to Vlad!” Adrien shouted. Marinette took off her jacket. Alya took off her button up shirt. Nathanial took off his jacket. Mylene took off her sweatshirt. Kim took off his sweatshirt. Ms. Bustier took off her button up shirt. Finally, Sabrina took off her sweater vest. Vlad tied them all together in a rope as quickly as possible. He tied it to a pole and let it down. “Alright, climb down!” he said. Ms. Bustier went first, and soon the whole class was down by the entrance. The last person to come down was Vlad. Once he was down, he whipped the makeshift rope and freed it from the pole. He untied everything and gave it back to everyone just as fast as he had tied it. “Now let’s go!” he said. The entire class was running out the door. Eventually, they spread out. Marinette was hiding behind the street pole sign. She made sure no one was looking and then called out “Tikki! Spots On!” She then transformed into Ladybug. She lept into action.

But someone was watching. Not too far from her was Vlad, who saw everything. “Aren’t you going to help her?” said the small creature, still encased in shadows.

“Not yet” said Vlad. “I wanna see how she does as Ladybug.”

Meanwhile, Adrien was hiding behind the stairs. “We gotta do something” he said, letting Plagg out. “Plagg! Claws Out!” Adrien then transformed into Cat Noir. Cat Noir also jumped into the fray.

Ladybug and Cat Noir met each other in front of the school. “Good to see you, M’Lady” said Cat Noir. “Shall we?”

“Of course” said Ladybug. They both entered the school. “Alright Receiver Deceiver! Show yourself!”

Receiver Deceiver popped out of a student’s phone with a piece of mail. Her screen had changed to the face of that student, and she began reading in their voice. “Honestly, why does Cat Noir need to be there? Ladybug is the only person whose powers are actually useful. Cat Noir just gets in the way.” Cat Noir’s jaw dropped. Receiver Deceiver aimed her ring at Cat Noir and fired, but Ladybug blocked the beam with her yo-yo.

“Cat Noir! You know that’s not true, right? You’re just as important to the team” said Ladybug.

Cat Noir snapped out of it. “Of course, M’Lady. Your opinion is the only one that matters to me.”

Receiver Deceiver scowled. “Grrrrrrrrr. GET THEM!” she called to her minions. The crowd that had been taken under control of Receiver Deceiver started charging toward Ladybug and Cat Noir.

“The Akuma must be in the phone” said Ladybug.

“Then I suggest we get it before the bell tolls for us” said Cat Noir. Ladybug and Cat Noir kept avoiding the crowd and charged ahead to get to Receiver Deceiver. Before Cat Noir and Ladybug could get to her though, she disappeared into her phone.

“Well, that’s not fair,” said Cat Noir. “Talk about a bad reception.”

The deceived horde came after Ladybug and Cat Noir again. “Cat Noir, the roof!” said Ladybug.

“Good thinking” said Cat Noir. They both hopped to the roof. “So, now they can’t get us, but we can’t get close to Receiver Deceiver because she’ll keep running away.”

“We need to make her come to us,” said Ladybug. She called out her power. “Lucky Charm!” A flash drive appeared. “A flash drive?”

“Do you need to download something maybe?” said Cat Noir.

“Maybe” said Ladybug. “Let’s head to the library and see what’s on it.”

“Got it!” said Cat Noir. Ladybug and Cat Noir hopped down to head to the library, defending themselves against the horde. They made it to the library and Ladybug checked the flash drive. “Empty” she said. However, she looks at the files on the computer, then her yo-yo, then the flash drive, then the modem in the library, and finally Cat Noir. “Of course!” She started to load the files onto the flash drive. Once she had all the files, she moved to the next computer to load those files, and so on.

Meanwhile, Receiver Deceiver was going around town putting people under her spell. Between appearances, she was traveling through an electrified tunnel filled with all sorts of messages. She would grab one, and then read it hoping to provoke a response. However, on the way to her next victim, Receiver Deceiver was suddenly flooded with incoming messages. There were too many to keep track of, and they were burying the older messages. Receiver Deceiver grabbed a message. She found that it was filled with a bunch of operating jargon. She saw that the other messages were similarly filled with reports, ebooks, or other operating jargon. She looked, and it was all coming from one source. She fled to the source and appeared in the library, out of Ladybug’s yo-yo phone.

“About time” said Ladybug, taking the flash drive out of her yo-yo. “Cat Noir! Now!”

“Cataclysm!” he called out. He touched the library’s modem, which black out the internet in the entire library. “We’ve got your number now!” said Cat Noir.

“You can’t run away any more” said Ladybug.

“I can still fight!” said Receiver Deceiver, as she threw a punch at Ladybug. Ladybug blocked it. She and Ladybug got locked into combat, giving ample time for Cat Noir to steal her phone out of her hand. He jumped, grabbed the phone, did a flip, and then sent the phone hurtling toward the ground, smashing it. “See kitty? What did I tell you?” said Ladybug. “You’re an important part of the team, and you know it.”

“Never doubted it for a second,” said Cat Noir.

Receiver Deceiver froze in her tracks.The Akuma flew out of the phone. “No more evil doing for you, little Akuma” said Ladybug, readying her yo-yo to capture the Akuma. She catches it and says “Gotcha. Bye-bye little butterfly” she said, releasing the butterfly. She threw up the flash drive and called out “Miraculous Ladybug!” The magic ladybugs flew all over, fixing the damage caused by Receiver Deceiver.

The purple-black aura surrounded Receiver Deceiver and changed her back to Lila. “Ugh, what happened?” said Lila.

“Pound it!” said Ladybug and Cat Noir. Their jewelry then started to flash.

“Uh, gotta go” said Ladybug. “Are you OK here by yourself?”

Lila nodded. “Yes” she said.

“Then bug out!” she said, leaving, with Cat Noir leaving in a different direction.

At Hawkmoth’s lair, the super villain was cursing his latest attempt. “I’ll soon figure out who you really are Ladybug and Cat Noir. Then the public will know too. Then everyone will be talking about it!”

Meanwhile, afternoon classes are about to start, and Ms. Bustier’s class is getting seated. Lila walks into the room solemnly. “I just want to say...I’m sorry,” she said, in a tone she hoped would garner sympathy.

“What do you have to apologize for?” said Vlad. Everyone looked at him confused.

“Um, did you not see that she turned into a freakish super villain with access to our phones?” said Alya.

“Of course” said Vlad. “But I also stated at the beginning of the day that if something were to happen, I’d take the blame for it. Something happened. So I’m taking the blame for it. It’s all my fault everyone.”

Everyone was confused, but impressed. “That’s Vlad for you,” said Adrien. “Vlad, you don’t need to do this. It’s just as much my fault.”

“Adrien. Always too nice for your own good” said Vlad. “But nah, it’s my fault. You tried warning me, but I insisted, and all of this happened.”

“Yeah, well, it’s also partially my fault too” said Adrien. “Lila, I should have been more honest with you about how I feel.”

“Well THAT we can agree on” said Vlad. “In fact, I think if today’s taught us anything, it’s that we should be more honest with each other. Or else people will think you hate them for no reason.” Everyone clapped, but Lila was low-key angry.

“You say that, but I doubt you like anyone here” said Adrien.

“For the last time Adrien, I like people, I just don’t trust people” said Vlad. “At least, not until I get to know them better.” Vlad looked at Marinette and gave her a wink.

Later, Marinette and Alya were talking, when Adrien stepped up to them. “Hey Marinette. I gotta say, getting Vlad to trust someone he just met is not an easy feet. Whatever you said to him to get him to trust you, I’m sure it was great.”

“Ummmmmmm, thank you…” said Marinette, embarrassed. Alya nudged her. “So, um….”

“Ahem” said Lila.

“Sorry Marinette, I gotta go explain myself” said Adrien, walking off.

Marinette got angry and jealous of Lila. “Easy girl” said Alya. “You’ll have you chance.”

“Yeah” said Marinette, dejected. “But speaking of explaining themselves…” Marinette pointed to Alya.

Alya was slightly surprised. “Listen girl, you know I love you. But you have to admit that you have some faults.”

“I know” said Marinette. “I just didn’t expect to hear it so bluntly.”

“Yeah” said Alya. “I didn’t expect to hear it like that either. Friends?”

“Friends” said Marinette, as they both hugged.

Vlad was observing this scene. He looked around and saw others making up from the chaos caused by Receiver Deceiver. He smiled and left.

Later that night, outside of Marinette’s home Vlad stands and stares at the building. “Are you ready?” said the small creature, who is now revealed to be a kwami. The kwami was grey, had wolf ears, a wolf snout, a wolf-like mane, red eyes, and a bushy wolf tail.

“Of course Beyyo” said Vlad. “But remember, just because we think alike doesn’t mean we’re the same. I might give her the seal of approval, but you may not.”

“Duly noted” said Beyyo.

Marinette walked into school. All eyes were on her. She was nervous. “Hey” Adrien said from behind her.

“GAH!” Marinette shrieked.

“Woah!” Adrien said.

“Sorry” Marinette said. “It’s just all these people are staring at me. I don’t know what to do.”

Adrien looked around. Everyone was staring at the two of them. Of course, Adrien was used to it. However, this was sort of new territory for Marinette.

“Don’t worry Marinette” Adrien said. “Remember when you helped me to the theater? It’s like that.”

“Yeah, but back then we weren’t dating” Marinette said, freaking out. “Is this what dating you is going to be like? Eyes on me at all times?”

Adrien saw his new girlfriend clearly not taking the situation well. He then looked at the crowd and boldly said “Yes. Marinette and I are dating.” There were murmurs from the crowd. “However, I will give you a free-autograph signing this afternoon provided you stop staring and hovering around Marinette. Our relationship is friends only.”

The crowd took well to Adrien putting his foot down. They were really excited about autographs. “Thanks” Marinette said. “How’d you do that?”

“It’s a trick you pick up when you’ve been in the  public eye as long as I have” Adrien said. “You give them something they want in exchange for what you want.”

“Well, I could have used that trick for Nadja’s interview” Marinette said.

“Speaking of, shouldn’t you be used to everyone looking at you” Adrien said. “You know, cause you’re Ladybug?”

“Yeah, but that’s Ladybug” Marinette said. “No one knows it’s clumsy little Marinette behind the mask. I assume that that’s why you’re such a goof as Cat Noir.”

“Well, kind of” Adrien said. “To be honest, I just do the things my father said I shouldn’t do on camera that I want. Same idea, but different, you know.”

Marinette giggled. “Hey!” Chloe called out, walking up to them.

“Hi Chloe” Marinette said, sweating nervously.

“Look, I’m...glad you and Adrien are dating…” Chloe said.

“You...are?” Marinette said.

“Yes…” Chloe replied. “But here’s the thing. You’re both invited to my party tonight. And I really need it to be about me. I don’t want you two to steal my thunder. Got it?”

“Believe me Chloe, the last thing I want is everyone looking at me right now” Marinette said.

“Good” Chloe said.

“But, what’s this about? Why the secrecy?” Marinette said.

“Well, that’s for you to find out, Marinette” Chloe said. “Adrien! Don’t tell her. I need to do this on my own!”

“Wouldn’t dream of it” Adrien said. Chloe walked off.

“You know what this is about?” Marinette said.

“Yeah, but I can’t say anything” Adrien said. “Well, I can tell you one little thing. It does have to do with her earning her miraculous back. She just needs to stick the landing is all.”

“Well, let’s hope tonight goes off without a hitch” Marinette said, smiling ear to ear.

Chloe kept walking and bumped into Vlad. “Gah!” she said.

“Hey Chloe, about tonight” Vlad said. “If this is what I think it is, should I feign surprise? I need to know now because I’m not great at lying.”

“You can do whatever you want” Chloe said.

“Cool. I’m going to check on the newest pair lovebirds” Vlad said. He walked off.

“After tonight, that title will belong to me” Chloe said, smugly. She quickly realized her hubris. “If all goes well.”

Vlad walked up to Marinette and Adrien. “Sup?” he said.

“Oh, hi Vlad” Marinette said.

“I just want to see how you two are doing” Vlad said. “By the way, I ran into Manon this morning. She wanted to congratulate the two of you.”

“Thanks” Marinette said.

“We’re doing great” Adrien said. “Well, for the most part.”

“I’m not huge on people staring at me” Marinette said.

“I mean, I love it, but it’s not for everyone,” Vlad said.

“Yeah, but you also know how to drive people away without transforming” Adrien said.

“Harsh. But accurate” Vlad said.

“Don’t worry Marinette. We’ll figure something out” Adrien said.

“Thanks” she replied. She gave him a kiss. “Well, we better get to class.”

Meanwhile, at the bakery, Tom and Sabine were preparing something when the heard someone come in. “Hello. How may I help you?” Sabine said. She saw Adrien’s bodyguard. “Oh. What brings you here?”

The bodyguard took out a tablet and turned it on to reveal Gabriel on the screen. “Hello Mr. Dupain. Mrs. Cheng” he said.

“Oh. Hello Mr. Agreste” Sabine said. “How may we help you?”

“As you may know, our children have started dating” Gabriel said. “I wish to speak to you about this at the soonest possible opportunity.”

“Certainly, Mr. Agreste” Sabine said. “Does tonight work?”

“Unfortunately, no” Gabriel said. “I’m...expecting company. And the next two days might be busy for me as well. I have an exhibition of my company’s latest works on Friday, and I need to prepare for it.”

“I see” Sabine said.

“But, I think Saturday will work” Gabriel said. “Perhaps we can even bring the children.”

“Oooo. I like that idea” Sabine said.

“Very well. See you Saturday” Gabriel said. The screen turned off.

“Did you hear that sweetie?” Sabine asked.

“Loud and clear” Tom said.

At the Agreste manor, Nathalie asked “Who are we expecting?”

“I’m sure Miss Rossi has some choice words for us” Gabriel responded.

Whenever they had a break, most of the class would huddle around Marinette and Adrien and ask about last night. “Could you give us some room, please? My lady isn’t too comfortable with people invading her personal space” Adrien said. The class backed up a little, but the questions kept coming. Marinette was happy to answer each of them because they were her friends. Plus, she had some new found confidence because her boyfriend was right there. She looked into his eyes lovingly.

Lila was pouting at her seat. “I take it you wanted to go out with one of them” Vlad said. Lila rolled her eyes at Vlad. “Well, let me tell you this, you didn’t have a chance with either of them until you got really, truly serious about being a nicer person. And even then, it was an outside chance at best.”

“Shut up” Lila said.

“Very well” Vlad replied.

Lila then looked at him. She didn’t LIKE Vlad, per say, but she wasn’t filled with the same seething hatred she had for Marinette. She sighed and offered an olive branch. “Why didn’t I have a chance with Adrien?” she asked.

“Well, that helps” Vlad said. “You want the honest truth?” Lila nodded. “I honestly think you had a better shot with Marinette out of the two. Adrien is naive, sure, but he’s also caring and stupidly loyal. The amount of trouble you caused under Hawk Moth’s wing, especially to those close to Adrien, would make it difficult for him to get intimate with you on any level. He’ll be friends, sure, but he couldn’t see you as lovers. At least, not for a very long time.” Lila was shaken to her core. “Hey, you said you wanted the honest truth.”

“I didn’t want THAT truth” she said.

“Alright. What kind of truth did you want?” Vlad asked.

“One where Adrien loved me and no one else” Lila said.

“Well, that’ll never happen” Vlad said rolling his eyes. “And not because it’s you. The thought of Adrien ONLY loving one person is laughable at best. When Adrien walks into a place and sees all of his friends, he is reminded of how much he loves each and every one of them. Sappy, yes. But that’s just who he is.”

As much as Lila hated to admit it, Vlad had a point. Adrien was the type of person who could get close to anyone. She then thought to ask something else “Hey Vlad?  Since you’re in such a truth-bomb giving mood, why is it hard for me to...get close with Marinette? You know...as friends?”

“Well THAT’S simple” Vlad said. “It’s because she bested you. I’m willing to bet that everywhere you went, you got your way due to the tactics that Adrien described. You would take down anyone who stood in your way. But Marinette was the first person who you tried taking down and failed to do so. That’s why I think it’s hard for you to like her. But you’ll get there eventually. That is, if you keep trying to improve yourself. Marinette isn’t so petty that she wouldn’t have you as a friend if you were ready.”

Lila smiled. “Thanks. This has been eye-opening.” She turned back to face the front of the classroom. She eyed Marinette. Could we really be friends?

Meanwhile, Trixx and Wayzz pulled Tikki and Plagg aside. “So, do they know each other’s secret identity?” Trixx asked.

“Yeah” Plagg answered.

“How did they find out? Was it gradual?” Wayzz asked.

Tikki shook her head. “Vlad just told them.”

“If you’re concerned, we did ask Master Fu first, and he said it was OK” Beyyo said, appearing at the conversation.

“Beyyo!” Trixx said, giving him a hug.

“Yes, yes, I missed you too” Beyyo said.

“Master Fu just gave you permission?” Wayzz said.

“Yes” Beyyo said.

“Fascinating” Wayzz said.

“Well, whatever the case, I’m just glad I don’t have to hear Adrien pining for Ladybug hopelessly anymore” Plagg said.

“Yeah, now you have to hear him talk about his relationship with Marinette” Tikki chided.

Plagg glared at her and then said, “Well, at least he’ll be happy.”

“We should probably get back before someone finds us” Wayzz said.

“Or if one of our owners notices we’re missing” Plagg said.

“Wait! I have one more question” Trixx said. “Are you ever going to let our users in the loop?”

Beyyo thought about it. “I’d have to bring it up with Vlad, but it’s a possibility!”

“Oh, thank you!” Trixx said, giving him another hug.

“Yes, well, we should head back” Beyyo said. The five headed back into the classroom.

Marinette and Adrien walked out the door after Adrien’s mass autograph session. “Sorry Marinette, but I have Chinese lessons today” Adrien said, rubbing his hand. “See you tonight.”

“Of course” Marinette said. “And you don’t need to worry about that stuff. We might not be together 24/7, but the moments we are together count the most.”

“Aww!” Adrien said. The two kissed. Adrien left for home. 

Marinette stood still until Adrien left. She then started bouncing. She STILL couldn't believe that she and Adrien were DATING! She just hoped that the casual onlookers would stop looking at her like she was just someone dating Adrien. She wasn’t just someone. She was Marinette.

Lila watched the interaction and texted Gabriel. “I’m coming over tonight. Adrien has something going on, so we can meet safely.”

Gabriel received the text. “I knew it” he said. He texted back “Very well.”

At Chloe’s penthouse, she and Jean were setting up for the party tonight. “Thanks for doing this, Jean...uh...what’s the second part of your name again?”

“It’s Antoine” he said. “And it is my pleasure.”

“Um, no offence, but when the guest start arriving, could you maybe...leave?” Chloe asked. “I’ve got some things I want to say in private.”

“Mademoiselle, I have been looking over you for years now” Jean-Antoine said. “You may not have realized, but there’s hardly a thing I don’t know about you. I know that you’ve had trouble being nice since your mom moved away. I know you care for your classmates, despite you wanting them to think otherwise. I know that you enjoy the company of women more.”

Chloe was shocked. “You mean you KNEW?! And you didn’t say anything?!”

“Yes, well, I didn’t want to get yelled at or fired for that” Jean-Antoine said. “You didn’t seem comfortable accepting it in yourself. If I had said anything, I would have been grossly overstepping my boundaries.”

Chloe ralized he was right. She thought about how she treated poor Jean-Antonie. It wasn’t a surprise to her that he was afraid of that. “I’m sorry…” she said, sheepishly.

“Mademoiselle” Jean-Antoine. “I have been supporting you ever since I was first hired. I have seen you at your worst, yes, but I’ve also seen you at your best. You are special. You are brave. You are ready.”

Chloe gave her butler a hug. “Thank you, Jean-Antoine!’ She said.

After Adrien got done with his Chinese lesson, he headed out “I’m heading out father! I’ll see you later.”

“Wait!” Gabriel said. “Is Marinette going to be with you?”

“Uh, yes?” Adrien did not understand this line of questioning.

Gabriel smiled. “I trust you’ll keep her safe.”

“Of course” Adrien asked. “What’s this about?”

Gabriel sighed. “I’ve been thinking about your mother recently in ways I haven’t thought of in years. I was there when she disappeared. Adrien, I don’t want you to make the same mistake I did. If you really love Marinette, don’t let her go.”

Adrien was puzzled. That was a lot to take in for his not-even-a-day-old relationship. Still, he thought about how long he’s loved Ladybug, and how much he cared for Marinette before he found out they were one in the same. He smiled and said “Don’t worry father. I wouldn’t even think about letting her go.”

Gabriel smiled. “Very well.” Adrien left.

Soon after, Lila entered. “We need to talk!” she demanded.

”Let’s go into my office” Gabriel said. They walked into the office. “What do you want to talk about?”

“I was angry last night! More angry than I’ve ever been!” Lila said. “Why didn’t you Akumatize me?! I’m sure even Adrien would understand why that would happen!”

“The reason is because I didn’t want to ruin my son’s first date” Gabriel said.

“Yeah, well, it’s just Marinette” Lila said. “It’s not like he’s actually in love with her!”

“I beg to differ” Gabriel said.

“Oh, please” Lila said. “We both know he’s going to end up with me.”

“If you’re going to be this petty, I suggest you leave” Gabriel said.

“Fine! But I’m going to tell everyone who Hawk Moth is!” Lila said.

“And I’ll send them the texts you sent me confirming Akuma victims” Gabriel said, intensely. Lila was shocked. “You had your opportunity to break away from me. I would have even let you do it.”

“Yeah, but that was when Adrien was still in my reach” Lila said. “But now...now he’s dating Marinette...and it sucks...because I wanted him to date me...and Marinette is great with him…”

“Well now, that’s not something I’d thought I’d hear you say” Gabriel said.

“Well, it’s the truth” Lila said.

“Exactly” Gabriel replied. “Look, I can see that you’re going through something. Clearly, you need some room to breath. So I’m going to give you a vacation from Hawk Moth work while you figure this out. And if you decide to quit, that’s your prerogative. But if you revel me, I will take you down with me. Now go.” Lila left the Agreste manor.

Meanwhile, a half hour before all of the other guests were to arrive, there was a knock at the penthouse door. Jean-Antoine opened it. “Well, hello Sabrina.”

“Sabrina!” Chloe said. She rushed over to the door. “Yes, well, come on in.”

Sabrina looked around. “Wow. It’s beautiful” she said. She noticed she was the only other person here. “Um, did I get here too early? I thought your invite said 5:30.”

“Well, here’s the thing,” Chloe said. “That’s what it says on your invite. I asked you to come here earlier than everyone else.” She took a deep breath. “OK. Here goes. There’s something I’ve been struggling with for a little while now. But thanks to some help, I am ready. Before everyone else shows up, I wanted to tell you first.” She took another breath. “The truth is, I’m...a lesbian. And I was wondering...if you would like to go out with me...you know...as my girlfriend...”

Sabrina was shocked. Her face turned redder than a strawberry She then found the words “Oh Chloe. Of course I will.” She ran up and gave Chloe a hug.

Chloe hugged her back. “Oh, thank you so much. I was so worried you would say no” Chloe said.

“I would never say no to that” Sabrina said, tears in her eyes. The two shared an intimate kiss.

On his way to Chloe’s, Adrien ran into Marinette. “Hey Marinette” Adrien said.

“Hi Adrien” Marinette said.

“You ready for tonight?” Adrien asked.

“I don’t know if I can be” Marinette said. “I’m not sure what Chloe’s doing, so it’s hard to say.”

“I understand” Adrien said.

“But I did manage to figure something out” Marinette said.

“What is it?” Adrien asked.

“The reason I’m not comfortable with people staring at me like they do” Marinette answered. “It’s because they’re only doing it because I’m dating you. I just feel like an attachment in their eyes. Like, ‘Adrien Agreste and Girlfriend!’ That’s not to say I want to be more in the public eye, but if I were to do something that warrants it, I’d be more than happy to take on those stares.”

“I getcha Marinette” Adrien said. “I felt that way when I started modeling.”

“You did?” Marinette said.

“Yeah. Back then, I felt like I was just ‘Gabriel’s son!’” Adrien clarified. “But over time, I felt like I came into my own as a public figure. Whatever you want, we can work on it. Whether it’s being more comfortable in the spotlight, or just not being there at all. We’ll do it together.”

“Thanks sweetie” Marinette said. They arrived at Le Grand Paris.

When they got up, they saw that everyone from Ms. Bustier’s class except for Lila, along with Marc and Ondine. Everyone was wondering what was going on.

Sabrina was in the front of the room. She said “Everyone! May I have your attention?! Chloe has something she wants to say.”

Sabrina stepped out of the way, and Chloe stepped up. “Hello” she said. “I know that you all might not have the highest opinion of me. I am aiming to change that. I’m trying to be kinder, gentler, more approachable Chloe. In order to do that, I need to be honest about myself. So, that is why I am having this party. There is a truth about myself that I have rejected until now. And in doing that, I’ve been rejecting you all as well. The truth is I am a lesbian. I first realized this when I was ten, and I’ve been suppressing it until now. But now, I am ready to be who I am. At least, in front of you. I’m not quite ready to tell everyone I know. But I’m working on it.”

The crowd sat silently, unsure of what to do. Vlad figured he better start clapping, but before he could, he heard someone else clapping. It was Marinette. Soon, everyone else joined in. Chloe had never felt more alive than in that moment.

During the party, Chloe was socializing with people. “Hey Chloe” Mylene said. I have to say, this party is going a lot better than your last party.”

“Sorry you had to go through what you did” Ivan said.

“It’s fine. And thanks” Chloe said.

“Hey Chloe. You should have told us sooner. But I understand why you didn’t” Juleka said. “So, um, do you want help looking for someone? Cause I know some places you can check out.”

“Thanks Juleka” Chloe said. She grabbed Sabrina’s arm and held it tight. “But I’ve already got a girlfriend.”

“Right on” Juleka said.

“You two are so CUTE together!” Rose said.

Chloe walked up to Max, Markov, Nathaniel, and Alix. “Hey, sorry about all of those times I antagonized you” she said.

“It’s OK Chloe” Nathaniel said.

“Water under the bridge” Max chimed in.

“You are most assuredly forgiven” Markov said.

“Just, don’t go doing it again” Alix said. “I like this new Chloe.”

Chloe smiled. “I like it too.”

“Hi Chloe” Kim said, standing next to Ondine. “I understand all of those times you rejected me now.”

“Yeah, about that…” Chloe said. “I wanted you to be here for this as well Ondine. I’m the one who is sorry. If I had been honest about myself, it wouldn’t have taken you as long to get together. I think you’re perfect for each other. Sorry I kept standing in the way unnecessarily.”

“It’s fine Chloe,” Kim said.

“Yeah. We’re together now, and that’s what counts” Ondine said.

“Thank you” Chloe said.

“So, this is what your party was about” Alya said.

“Yeah” Chloe said.

“I’ve gotta say, you know how to throw a heck of a coming out party” Alya said.

“Yeah, well, it isn’t a party yet” Chloe said. “Nino! Get DJing!” she commanded.

“Yes ma'am” Nino said. He immediately jumped to the turntables.

“Thanks” Alya said.

Chloe walked up to Marc and Vlad. “Thanks for helping me get to this point.”

“No problem, Chloe” Vlad said.

“Um, yeah. We’ve all gotta stick together” Marc said.

She gave the two a hug. “For real. I wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t for you.” She walked off.

“Hi Chloe” Marinette said. 

“Hi Marinette. Adrien” Chloe said.

“How are you doing?” Marinette asked.

“Honestly? I feel great” Chloe said.

“I knew you’d get there” Adrien said.

“Yeah, well, thank you for helping me Adrien” Chloe said.

“What are friends for?” Adrien said.

“And if you need anything else, don’t be afraid to come to me” Marinette said.

Chloe mind flashed an image of Ladybug on Marinette this time. “Yes, well, if I need anything, I’ll come talk to you for sure.”

“Great” Marinette said.

The party went on for a while, but since it was a school night, Jean-Anoine asked everyone to leave. “Hey Chloe” Sabrina said. “I had a great time tonight.”

Chloe blushed. “Me too.”

Once he left, Vlad stopped at Master Fu’s. “What is it Vlad?”

“I’m here for the bee miraculous” Vlad said.

“Are you going to give it to her?” Master Fu said.

“Not right away” Vlad replied. “I want to give her one more test. But I want Pollen to watch.”

“I see. Very well” Master Fu said. He got out the Miracle Box and gave Vlad the bee miraculous.

Later that night, Judgement Wolf arrived at Chloe’s. He snuck in and called out “Wolf Mist!” He opened up the Miracle Box and Pollen appeared. “Hello Pollen. Do you want to see your queen’s final test?”

“I do” Pollen said.

“Then let’s go” Judgement Wolf said.

Chloe was at the table with her parents. She was nervous, but she knew she had to do it. “Mom. Daddy. I have something to say.”

“What is it, darling?” Audrey said.

“Yes darling, what is it?” Andre said.

“Mom. Dad. I’m a lesbian” Chloe said. Chloe’s parents were frozen. “Are you alright?”

“Are YOU?!” Audrey said. “You can’t be serious. This is ridiculous. Utterly ridiculous!”

“Yes, are you sure you’re not mistaken?” Andre said.

“This is what I was afraid of” Chloe said, angrily. “Well guess what mom and dad! I don’t need you anymore!” One by one, the attendees of the party showed up behind Chloe. “I have my friends now, and they accept me for who I am, unlike you. I can count on them to help me. I don’t need your stupid rules, or your stupid attitudes, or even your support.” She held Sabrina’s hand. “Because now I’ve got real happiness. And I’m not allowing you to take that away!”

The dream faded into the white void. “Well well” Judgement Wolf said. “That must have felt good.”

“It did” Chloe said. “But that doesn’t mean I hope it turns out like this.”

“Of course” Judgement Wolf said. “But in the meantime, there’s someone who wants to say hi.”

He threw Pollen at her. “Pollen!” Chloe shrieked.

“Hello, my queen” Pollen replied.

“Wait, does this mean what I think it means?” Chloe said.

“Of course. You passed” Judgement Wolf said. Chloe started jumping up and down. “But! There is something I need to say. Since people know you’re Queen Bee, I would suggest maybe holding off on transforming for a little bit. Jump in when you need to, but before then, if you can help it, maybe keep a low profile.”

Chloe looked at Judgement Wolf. The Pollen. Then Judgement Wolf. “I understand,” she said. “I have a question.” Judgement Wolf raised an eyebrow. “Since you must have tested Ladybug, you know who she is, right?”

“That is correct” Judgement Wolf said.

“Um...Is Ladybug Marinette?” Chloe asked.

“If that is so, do you think I would tell you?” Judgement Wolf said.

“I guess not…” Chloe said.”But should I ask her myself?”

Judgement wolf paused. “I’m not sure how to answer this question.”

“Well, I’ll think about it” Chloe said.

“Great. Then with that, I bid you goodnight” Judgement Wolf said. He jumped out of the Wolf Mist and let Chloe sleep.

Chloe woke up the next morning. She felt something in her hand. It was the bee miraculous. “Pollen?” she said.

“Yes, my queen” Pollen said.

Chloe smiled. “Good. It wasn’t just a dream. Come on, let’s go to school.” Pollen hid in her bag, as Chloe put the comb in her hair.

When she got to school, she sat down next to Sabrina. Sabrina noticed the comb right away. “Is that the bee miraculous?” she asked.

Chloe remembered what Judgement Wolf said last night. As much as I want to tell her, it’s for her own good. “Not really...I ordered a replica a while ago. But I didn’t feel like wearing it until last night. I want to feel good about myself, and this is how I choose to express it. I might not get the bee miraculous again, but this reminds me that in my heart, I will always be a hero.”

Just then, Tikki woke up and saw what was happening, and she panicked. “MARINETTE! WAKE UP!” she yelled.

“Huh?” Marinette said, still half asleep.

The figure called out his power “Wolf Mist” and he thrust his sword forward so that the mist could hit Marinette. Once it got to her, Marinette went back to sleep, although her head was surrounded by mist.

Tikki nodded to herself and started to leave, but the figure caught Tikki in his hand. “You’re needed for later” the figure said. He took Tikki, and hopped into the mysterious wolf mist.

Marinette woke up in class. She didn’t know when she had fallen asleep in class, but she was used to it at this point. Suddenly, Hawk Moth appeared on the screen. “Hello Paris” he said in his chilling voice. “Normally I wouldn’t do this, but I am too frustrated at this point. Ladybug and Cat Noir have stood in my way for too long. I will finally admit my goals to all of you. I am after world peace. You might find that odd, considering my methods, but I assure you it’s true. I have been informed that fusing the miraculous of Ladybug and Cat Noir will grant the user one wish. That is why I want their miraculous. I didn’t even want credit for giving peace to the world. Peace is enough of a reward as is. However, because I’ve been denied so many times, I have no choice but to go public.”

Marinette could believe what she was seeing. Neither could the rest of the class. However , while it was true that a wish could be granted by the miraculous, Marinette also knew that the wish came at a price. “Do you want world peace? Then go after Ladybug and Cat Noir! Their real identities are Marinette Duapin-Cheng, and” Marinette could only hear a guttural noise for Cat Noir’s real identity. “Hawk Moth out.” The screen turned black and everyone turned to Marinette.

“What? You don’t believe him, do you?” Marinette said.

“Well, it would explain a lot” said Alya.

“It would explain everything!” said Nino.

“Guys, come on, there’s no way I’m Ladybug. Me little ol’ clumsy Marinette” she said, trying to charm her way out of the situation. When she realized that wouldn’t work, she bolted out the door. She took out Tikki. “Tikki! We have an emergency!”

“I know” said Tikki. “I’m sorry Marinette, but I’m leaving.”

“What?! Why?!” Marinette called out.

“The magic only works if I’m there” said Tikki. “Bye Marinette.” TIkki left.

“Tikki” said Marinette.

Meanwhile, the real Tikki was being held in a box. She was trying to bust out of it with all of her might. “Why are you doing this?!” she called to the mysterious figure who imprisoned her. Tikki and the figure were in a white room, with only the box Tikki is being held in and a screen projecting Marinette’s dream in it.

The figure answered her. “You should know better than anyone what the purpose of the wolf miraculous is.” Tikki continued to pound against her confines. “That’s not going to do you any good.” Tikki gave him a look. “Don’t worry, I’ll let you out when the time is right. In the meantime, just sit back and watch.”

“Who are you, anyway?” Tikki asked.

The figure looked at the struggling kwami. “You can call me Judgement Wolf” he said.

Back in Marinette’s dream, Marinette was struggling with the fact that Tikki had left her, when suddenly the door opened behind her. “Grab her!” Alya called.

“Alya?” Marinette said. Marinette thought it was now or never. She rushed to the stairs and ran down as fast as she could. However, everyone was coming after her. The teachers. Her friends. Even Adrien. She sprinted through the courtyard, but everyone was gaining on her.

Suddenly, a car pulled up. The door opened, and in the driver’s seat was a figure bathed in white. “Get in, M’Lady” he said.

“Cat Noir?” said Marinette, confused. She didn’t have time to process it, however, as everyone was gaining on her. She jumped in, and closed the door. The figure then floored it. Marinette put her seatbelt on. “So, did your kwami leave you too?” Marinette asked.

“Yeah, but don’t worry,” said Cat Noir. “We can make it through anything.”

“I wish I could believe that” said Marinette. “But right now, I bet the whole world is against us.”

“Well, M’Lady, if it is us against the world, I'll take those odds” said Cat Noir. “Because when we’re together, there’s nothing we can’t do.”

Marinette couldn’t help but smile. Usually, she would deride Cat Noir’s flirting, but at a moment like this she found comfort in the fact that something didn’t change. The car suddenly stopped. “Why’d you stop, Cat Noir?” Marinette asked.

“I didn’t” said Cat Noir. The doors opened, the seatbelts came off, and the car shook them out.

Outside, the two of them saw Robustus. “Great job Robustus” said Gamer coming over to meet them. Soon they were joined by an endless parade of Akumatized villains. Among them was Gorizilla, who picked up Marinette and Cat Noir and took them to Hawk Moth’s lair.

Soon, Marinette and Cat Noir were face to face with Hawk Moth, who had become Scarlet Moth once again. “Cat Noir, Ladybug, I assume you know why you’re here?”

“Yes” said Marinette.

“Good, then I expect this’ll go over easy” said Scarlet Moth.

“Not on your life” said Cat Noir.

“Even though what you want is good, we can’t let you have it” said Marinette. “When someone makes a wish, a price must be paid.”

“There is no price to pay for world peace” said Scarlet Moth.

“Exactly. We don’t know what kind of consequences it’ll bring about if you wished for peace” said Cat Noir.

“Fools. Do you think you still have a choice?” said Scarlet Moth. “Just hand over your miraculouses. This is the last time I’ll ask.”

Marinette thought to herself about what to do. It felt like she didn’t have much of a choice. But then she got an idea. “Fine” she said.

“Wha?” said Cat Noir.

“You win” said Marinette, taking off her earrings.

Cat Noir “Look M’Lady, just because you’ve given up hope, doesn’t mean-”

Marinette turned to Cat Noir and said “Come on Cat Noir, we’re totally outnumbered.” She then winked at Cat Noir.

“Fine” he said, taking off his ring and giving it to Marinette.

“Here you go Scarlet Moth” said Marinette, holding out the jewels.

Scarlet Moth approached her and Marinette dropped them in his hand. Immediately after, Marinette grabbed Hawk Moth’s miraculous, and put it on herself. Hawk Moth depowered turned into another figure bathed in white. All of the other Akumatized people detransformed too. “Nooroo! Dark Wings Rise!” Marinette called out. Nooroo fused to the jewel and Marinette transformed into her own version of Hawk Moth. This version had a black elegant evening dress, a black mask similar to that of her Ladybug mask, black heels, and black arm-length gloves.

“It doesn’t matter” said Hawk Moth. “I still have your jewels!” He tried putting them together, but it did nothing. “What?!”

“I’m sorry, but our kwamis left. Which means that they are no longer magic jewels. Rather, they are just jewels” said Hawk Moth Marinette. “Get up kitty. You were right. You and me against the world.”

Cat Noir chuckled. “We never lose.”

“Although, it isn’t going to be just the two of us for long,” said Hawk Moth Marinette. She spotted Adrien. A butterfly flew over to Hawk Moth Marinette. She infused it with energy. “Go, my little Akuma, and Heroize him!” She sent him after Adrien. The Akuma fused with Adrien’s ring and Hawk Moth Marinette introduced herself. “Gentleman. I am Hawk Moth. I’m giving you the power to protect the ones you care about. All I want in return are the jewels that the former Hawk Moth currently has.

“At your service, Hawk Moth” said Adrien. A purple-black aura consumed Adrien. Once it was done, Adrien was in a black tuxedo, complete with a white ascot, and a boutonniere.

Hawk Moth was surprised by this. Gentleman then charged at him and just beat him up. Once Hawk Moth was down for the count, Gentleman grabbed the miraculous and took Hawk Moth Marinette’s hand. “Are you ready?” he said.

Hawk Moth Marinette was blushing. Cat Noir was jealous. “Um, could we bring Cat Noir as well?” she asked.

“Of course. Anything for you” said Gentleman, kissing Hawk Moth Marinette’s hand. Hawk Moth Marinette got on Gentleman’s back.

Cat Noir looked on in disgust. “Fine. I’ll come along too” he said, also getting on Gentleman’s back.

“Now hold on tight” said Gentleman. He lept out of the window and landed safely back on the streets of Paris. Cat Noir and Hawk Moth Marinette got off of Gentleman’s back. “Miss Hawk Moth,” said Gentleman, “may I have a kiss?”

Hawk Moth Marinette was stunned. But then she said “Yes.” Gentleman placed his lips against Hawk Moth Marinette’s. It was a passionate kiss. They were bathed in the Paris moonlight, and dressed to the nines. You could not ask for a more perfect kiss.

Once the kiss broke off, Marinette was no longer in Paris. She was in an white empty area. She also looks,and she was back in her regular clothes. Needless to say, she was thoroughly confused.

“Bravo” said Judgement Wolf, giving a round of applause.

Marinette turned to see this mysterious figure. “Who are you?”

“The name’s Judgment Wolf” he said. “And I believe she belongs to you.” He threw Tikki at Marinette.

Marinette caught Tikki and said “Tikki! I was so afraid I lost you.”

“Oh Marinette, you should know that I would never abandon you” Tikki said.

Marinette inquired “But what about-”

“Marinette, that was a dream,” said Tikki.

“A dream?” said Marinette.

“Yes. And it was caused by that man!” Tikki said. “Now turn into Ladybug so we can beat this guy!”

“Is he Akumatized?” Marinette asked, worrying about what that means if that were true.

“No” said Tikki. Marinette sighed. “He’s just in possession of the wolf miraculous. A dangerous miraculous, which should never be used.”

“I was told you had a grudge against the wolf miraculous” Judgment Wolf said. “However, I’m not the same one you met last time. But you knew that already. I would like to avoid conflict as much as possible. So if you want your revenge, you gotta take it up with Beyyo.”

“Beyyo?” said Marinette.

“The kwami of the wolf miraculous” said Tikki. “An evil little thing.”

“Easy now” said Judgement Wolf. “We don’t want to say things we can’t take back.”

Tikki growled at Judgement Wolf. “I don’t get it,” said Marinette. “What are you doing this for?”

“Simple” said Judgement Wolf. “The wolf miraculous is the miraculous of doubt. It has a lot of interesting quirks to it, but all you need to know right now is that Beyyo and sniff out other kwamis, which is how I found you, and Beyyo believes that the holder of the wolf miraculous should test the users of other miraculous to see if they are worthy. An idea that I agree with. To do this, those who posses the wolf miraculous use a mist to create situations in the heads of people when they are unconscious. Based on the results, we decide if the user is worthy or not.”

“So, that whole thing was a test?” said Marinette.

“Yes” said Judgement Wolf. “And you passed.” This surprised both Marinette and Tikki. “You proved that even in a situation where everyone was against you, you would still do the right thing. And even if Hawk Moth’s goals were noble, he was doing them in the wrong way.”

“Of course” said Marinette. “If he wants to create peace, why doesn’t he use the powers he has to do that, instead of banking on a wish?”

Judgement Wolf laughed. “Oh Marinette, you continue to surprise me. I trust you completely to do your job as Ladybug.” Judgement wolf was about to leave, but he had one more thing to say. “Before I go, this is just me we’re talking about. Beyyo might have other ideas. He’ll meet you tomorrow to tell you what he thinks.” Judgement Wolf jumped out of the mysterious white area.

Marinette and Tikki were both confused, but before they could process anything, they fell asleep.