Miraculous: Rise of Anatis 67
Firstly, I am sorry this took so long to do but it's finished now and hopefully it is a good read. Anyway, this was really fun and hard to write but I enjoyed it. I tried to make it quite light hearted compared to the others I've wrote recently and this officially marks the Lukanette part of the story. Like i know these two blueberries have been dancing around each other for a while but now they are finally on the same page on each other's feelings. However, Anatis won't be telling Lady Noir about it and vice versa. The reason is because they could work out each other's identities. Anatis thinks if he tells her, she realize he's is Luka from it as he wouldn't want to be with anyone else then Marinette and Lady Noir is still Marinette so she figures that if she tells him, he realize that both her and Marinette had the same thing happen to them at the same time and from that, he realize they are the same person. So I will be working on the Halloween Special for the Specials section and Crescendo next so I'm pretty excited about them XD
Also I changed Heureux Fin's powers a bit. He has a dust that turns people into fairytale characters that makes them not worry as a side effect. It can also change objects and places into fairytale scenery. Fairytale can shape-shift into fairytale creatures aka a fairy, a shadow and a wolf. It can also produce a dust in it's fairy form that turns Adrien's friends into the lost kids, making them think they were always lost kids while forgetting who they really are. Their canon hero names are inspiration for their lost kid names. For example, Kim is just monkey as a lost boy. Another reason why I decided to give it that power is because Neverland has that effected on the characters in the book.
Oh and for the fairytale characters that the characters became check the end notes :)
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Chapter Sixty-Seven: Heureux Fin
~Agreste Manor~
"Thank you all for coming," Gabriel stated as he looked to his guests. Audrey and her husband were sat close to him on the right side of the tablet while Tomoe was sat next to him on the left. She was still gripping her cane. XY had come in place of his father and Amelie Graham de Vanily was sat opposite him. The only person who hadn't turned up was Alim Kubdel but this did not surprise him as Alim had walked away after the birth of his son. "As we all saw the temple of the miraculous has returned,"
"Is that why you called us here, Gabriel?" Audrey asked, making him look at her as she glanced at her nails. "I already did my part for the order,"
"Yes and your daughter was a wonderful contribution but now we must focus our efforts on the true goal of our organization," He stated, making almost all of them look at him. "Finding the mage's latest form,"
"We have been looking for years," Tomoe replied. "We even hoped our own children would be him reborn and when it wasn't the case, we gave up or did you forget that?"
"Of course, I remember that but I have reason to believe he must be here in Paris,"
"Why on earth would the mage come here?" Amelie asked with disgust. "This rat hole is not worthy of his presence,"
"Because of Hawkmoth," Gabriel stated, causing everyone to look at him. "Hawkmoth is currently misusing a miraculous and trying to steal more. It would make sense that this would draw the mage to Paris. In fact, I believe he might even be the one responsible for giving Anatis and Lady Noir their powers,"
"So you're saying the mage has already been reborn?!" Amelie gasped, standing up. Gabriel nodded in reply. "Well, that simply won't do! How are we suppose to control him now?! He could be older then all of us,"
"Relax, my dear. I have reason to be believe that he isn't that old," Gabriel replied, making her frown. "As for controlling him, there is plenty of ways to indoctrinate him into our way of thinking... as I'm sure Audrey will testify with her daughter,"
"Yes, Zoe is doing wonderfully at her current school. By the time she is 18, she'll be a perfect fit to take over my position as both the Style Queen and Queen of the underworld," She smirked, looking at her nails. "Shame that Chloe is such a broken child though... however, I'm surprised none of you decided to put your child into the program,"
"The Tsurugi family never let anyone dictate how they see the world," Tomoe declared, making Audrey frown deeply. "We are as elusive as the wind, as powerful as the flood, and as swift as lightning. We never let anyone rule our hearts or control us,"
"Yet you're one of the most controlling parents here," Audrey pointed out, making Tomoe frown. "So much for not letting anyone control you,"
"At least, my family understands honor," Tomoe retorted back. "Yours only understands money,"
"You say that like it's a bad thing," Audrey laughed. "Money is power. We all know that,"
Gabriel clapped his hands, getting everyone's attention.
"As much as I would love to see this continue, let's focus on the subject at hand," Gabriel stated, making everyone look at him. It took a lot of mental strength for him not go to his secret garden and akumatize the room but having said that, they would make great akumas. He would even akumatize Amelie despite the fact that she was technically family. He cleared his mind of those thoughts as they began to talk about how to track down the mage's latest form and how they would take control of him. Of course, Gabriel had no intention of letting the others have him. No, he would take the mage for himself and akumatize him. He would be the perfect akuma to finally take down Anatis and Lady Noir. They wouldn't know what hit them.
~Feng's Hut~
"Su Han used the wish?!" Luka gasped, pushing his fingers through his hair. "Why? Why did he do that? Why did he kill Toutai?"
"Because he wanted the title," Feng replied, making Luka frown. "Su Han believed it was his destiny to become the Celestial guardian as soon as he found out about my existence but when Toutai was revealed to be my most recent incarnation, Su Han became jealous. That jealousy was left to fester and grew, turning into resentment as the years passed. It did not help that both were in love with the same woman,"
"Mulan," Luka muttered, causing Feng to nod.
"When she chose Toutai, it added salt to an already infected wound and the resentment that Su Han had for Toutai turned into a cold, deep hatred," He stated, making Luka frown. "From that, things just got worst. Thanks to his hatred, Su Han fell victim to the dark spirit I mentioned. This dark spirit influenced him with promises of power and his 'rightful' destiny. He tried to get Su Han to murder Toutai but when he wouldn't, he suggested using the wish to claim what he called Su Han's destiny but as you know, the wish requires a price in return for what you wish. Su Han wished to be the celestial guardian and so Toutai lost the title but even with the title, it didn't change that Toutai was the rightful guardian. Su Han only wished to be have the title. He should have wished to have been born as my reincarnation but he did not. He thought just having the title was enough. He thought that he would become the best celestial guardian there was and that Mulan would rush to his side as his bride. Of course, she didn't rush to his side and stuck with Toutai. The two of them intended to leave and rebuild else where but the dark spirit whispered in Su Han's ear, making him believe they intended to usurp him. He made a special dagger and confronted them but he did not expect Toutai to challenge him for his betrayal. They got into a fight and as a result, Toutai was murdered and the dark spirit was freed,"
"That's when he possessed Su Han," Luka stated, making Feng nod. "Tell me more about the dark spirit,"
"His name is Simme. He was born of humanity's cruelty and feeds off negative emotions. Feelings such as anger, jealousy and resentment are what he is drawn t. He is also drawn to those who's hearts are darker then others. Just been around him will bring these negative emotions to the surface but it goes much far then that," Feng replied, making Luka frown. "Simme is what the kwamis call Móguǐ or Devil in your tongue. He inspired the stories of Lucifer, Satan and most devil figures in mythology and religion. He is a trickster and a deal maker but those deals never go the way people want them to. They only work in his favor,"
"How did he get trapped?"
"Another spirit fought him and trapped him in Jīngshén, an area in the spirit realm," He replied, making Luka nod before he frowned. "Luka?"
"Wait... if he escaped from there and possessed Su Han at the temple..." Luka muttered as the color drained out of his face. "I restored the temple! That means he's back!!"
"Yes and no," Feng replied, making Luka frown. "Simme is a spirit, meaning it is rather difficult for him to interact with the physical world so while he is technically back, he can only do so much right now, especially with the fact that his host is weak... but should there be an event that creates enough negative emotion or if he was able to find a dark soul and use it as a host, it could be enough to allow him to break through the spiritual barriers and manifest a form in the physical world,"
"Great... wait what's a dark soul?" Luka asked, frowning.
"It's a form of a pure soul but one that is born pure evil," Feng replied. "It is rare but what's even rarer is a light soul, which is one born pure good. You see most souls are a mix of good and bad. It's very rare for someone to be born pure evil or pure good,"
"And I brought this thing back?!" Luka gasped, running his fingers through his hair. "I've made a huge mistake! I should have given up been Anatis and then-"
"Simme would have returned regardless of your choice. Whoever defeated Feast and cast the miraculous cure would have brought him back," Feng replied, making Luka at him. "But regardless, this is what was meant to happen and your choice has been made. You are Anatis and Simme is free but that doesn't mean you are helpless against him. As my reincarnation, you can use a spell to trap him back in Jīngshén,"
"Wait... I can?" Luka asked, making Feng nod. "How? I don't know magic... or at least not that type. Obviously, I know how to project my emotions... but casting spells... isn't that evil?"
"No, a spell is neither good nor bad. It is the intention of the caster that makes it either," Feng replied, making Luka nod. "As for learning, I can teach you. Of course, you won't be able to cast that spell yet. It is a very powerful spell and you must first learn to channel magic, which is why we have the tests,"
"Tests?" Luka asked, confused.
"Yes, tests," Feng replied, making Luka raise an eyebrow. "These tests are required to prove you are worthy of magic as well as the title of Celestial guardian,"
"Whoa, whoa... Celestial guardian?!" Luka gasped, making Feng chuckle. "I'm not celestial guardian material! I'm barely guardian material, Feng!"
"Becoming a celestial guardian is your destiny, Luka," He explained, making Luka frown. "Think of it as you are my heir and I beg to differ. You have already ticked a number of the boxes to becoming a celestial guardian and passed one of the tests,"
"I... have?" Luka asked, surprised.
"Yes," Feng nodded. "You lead a team of heroes, you have the trust of a civilization, you restored hope, the kwamis you have met love and respect you and you are willing to fight for the right. As for the test, you passed the test of determination... my test... when you continued to fight, despite having a chance to walk away. Whether you see it or not, you're on the path of becoming the next celestial guardian,"
"What do you mean your test?"
"Each test comes from our different lives," Feng replied, making Luka frown a little. "Me and Khnurn came up with them after he showed determination in saving Egypt despite having a strong dislike towards most humans,"
"...Why does he hate people?" Luka asked, making Feng sigh.
"It is not really my place to save but let's just say for now that Khnurn has seen how cruel humans can be," Feng replied, causing Luka to frown. "He'll tell you in his own time but for now, let me explain more about the tests,"
"Ok," Luka nodded. "Why is your test determination?"
"It is what I represent," Feng replied, making Luka give him a confused look. "Hmm... how to explain this? Well, I guess you could say we're the closest thing to a spirit a human can be,"
"Wait... that does mean we're not human?!" Luka gasped, concerned. Feng chuckled a little and shook his head.
"No, we're still human... we're just part spirit too," He replied, making Luka frown. "Well, you know Kwamis are born from concepts and Renlings are born from values. Well, spirits are born from traits,"
"Traits?" Luka echoed, making Feng nod. "I'm not sure I fully understand,"
"Ok," Feng replied, making a thinking face. "Well, a good example is Simme and his opposite,"
"His opposite?"
"All things have an opposite, Luka. Where there is light, there is always shadow and where there is evil, there is also good. The world is of balance and Simme is no different," Feng replied, making Luka blink as he stopped talking and took a drag from a pipe. He rose an eyebrow as he was certain that Feng didn't have it a moment ago. However, he blew smoke out of his mouth and to Luka's surprise, it formed shapes that resembled men. He frowned as he watched them hurt and kill each other as a new form shaped. It resembled a snake with a grin. "Simme was born from the cruelty in the hearts of man and as a result, he can influence it,"
Luka frowned as he watched the smoke snake whisper to the men, causing them to be cruel and evil but the smoke changed and showed a smoke person offering another food.
"But where there is cruelty, there is also kindness," Feng replied as Luka watched. "Not all humans are evil or cruel. There are kind and it was from this kindness, Simme's opposite was born,"
From the smoke people, a new shape formed but this one resembled a bird.
"Finni, the spirit of kindness.... you met him during the mob boss situation. It was him who guided you to safety," He replied, making Luka blink. He did remember seeing a bird but he had no idea it was a spirit. "And it is him that we owe our long lives and immortality to. He is why we are part spirit,"
The scene changed, showing a boy in a temple surrounded by others but what made them stand out was they didn't look solid. Instead, they appeared to transparent but the boy in the scene looked solid. Luka realized the boy was Feng.
"I was born with the gift of foresight and I have always been able to see spirits..." He replied as the smoke changed. It now showed the boy but he was alone in the temple while others whispered to each other. Luka knew they were whispering about him. "Other humans believed I was mad. Even my parents. I never fitted in and the other children thought I was weird,"
The scene changed to the boy, walking through a forest before he stumbled on the kwamis.
"Then one day, I met Tikki and the other kwamis. I invited them to live with me, finding that I had more in common with them then other humans," Feng replied as the scene showed him laughing and playing with them. However, the scene changed to him trying to tell his mother something during a thunderstorm. "But then I had a vision of death and war,"
The smoke changed to Feng talking to a girl in a village before it showed him running from her.
"I tried to warn my family but they did not believe me so I ran away," He replied as the smoke showed him going deep into a forest and crying to himself. As he did, the grinning snake approached him. "That's where I met Simme. He tried to tempt me into using my gifts for evil but I refused him and found Finni,"
The smoke showed an injured bird and Feng trying to heal him.
"I tried to help and my kindness saved his life but he was still weak. I took him home with me and for a small amount of time, I was happy again but my vision haunted me and one day, it came to be," The smoke changed into a scene of carnage as a village been attacked by men on horses. Luka covered his mouth in shock as he watched Feng been cut down then attacked by Simme. Before he could kill him, Finni flew in and attacked Simme to protect his friend. He used his magic to banish him, sending the snake away and tried to heal the boy's wounds with his tears. When that wasn't enough, he possessed a nearby body and lifted Feng into his arms. The smoke changed and showed Finni's host taking a dying Feng back to their temple and to the other spirits who surrounded the dying boy. The other kwamis and Finni discussed something and then the scene showed them surrounding him and singing as Finni turned into a ball of light before it covered the area. When it disappeared, the smoke showed Feng sit up, alive. Finni had sacrificed himself to heal him.
"That war drained Finni's power a lot and he used the last of it to merge his soul with mine and save my life," Feng explained, making Luka blink as the smoke showed Feng placing his hand where his heart was. "That was the moment I became the spirit of Determination. Up until the very end, I tried to warn my family of the attack and when Finni merged his soul with mine, it made me into a spirit... well, the closest thing to a spirit a human could be. That is why my test is the test of determination and each time I have been reborn, I became a new spirit with a new trait but the same soul. Each of my tests is based on those traits,"
"What is my trait?" Luka asked, looking at Feng. "Did you know straight away?"
"No... and I don't know what yours is either," Feng replied, making Luka frown. "But you will find out,"
"Can I know what the other tests will be?" Luka asked, making Feng nod.
"You will be tested on honesty, loyalty, courage and compassion," Feng replied, making Luka nod. "But I can not tell you when you'll be tested or how. Only that you will be and what their traits are,"
"Four tests? That's it?" Luka asked, a little surprised. "What happens if I pass them? I mean I don't feel any different from passing yours..."
"Oh, you are different since you passed mine. You're stronger and I know you felt it," Feng smiled, making Luka remember how he felt when he transformed after reclaiming his miraculous back. He had felt stronger. "As for rewards for passing, I can teach you how to farther your magic and how to channel mine. You also unlocked one of the locks,"
"Locks?" Luka asked as Feng gestured towards the door of the hut, the one that never opens. "There's locks on it?"
"Yes, five all together," Feng replied, making Luka blink. "One for each trait and once you have passed all of them, it will open the door, allowing you to join me and the others in Shangi-La both spiritual and physically,"
"Ok... cool..." Luka muttered, not entirely sure how to feel. "I am here physically?"
"No but this is still real," Feng replied, making Luka nod. "Anyway, do you understand spirits, our lives and the tests a bit better?"
"A little... yeah..." Luka admitted. It kind of did make sense. He had to admit he was interested in learning how to channel magic. "So you can teach me to channel your magic? Does that mean I can have visions? And will that help with learning to cast spells? Also what spells can we do? Is it like Harry Potter? Do I need a wand?"
"Luka, calm yourself," Feng stated, making him blink and grin in a sheepish manner. He did get a bit excited. "No, you don't need a wand. It isn't like Harry Potter. We can cast any spells but certain ones need certain things and power level so you'll be learning basic spells and yes, it will help with casting and you will be able to have visions but learning your own magic will help too and most things can be a spell. We just need to work out how you cast,"
"Ok!" Luka grinned, making Feng smile. While part of him was kind of weary of it, a bigger part of him was excited. After all, he just got told he could do actual magic and it wasn't like Issac was in his life anymore. He didn't need to be afraid of been a witch plus Feng had explained that it was his intention that determined what the magic actually was so as long as his intention was good, his magic would be too and this was a chance to learn more about his empathy. "When can we begin?"
"Now if you want,"
"Yes!!"
~A Few Days Later~
"Urg, I can't believe we're back at school," Alix groaned as a number of students walked back to the school grounds. Summer holidays were over now, meaning it was back to the humdrum routine of studying and akuma attacks but the children were back, heading to the school. Felix had returned from London and was talking to Aurora and Mireille while they waited for Jean to turn up. Nino and Alya were similar in the sense they were waiting for Adrien and Marinette. Nathaniel was already at the school and in the art room, discussing the new ideas for the comic that he and Marc came up with during the holidays. Marc was also there. Alix would have joined them but she wanted to wait for Kim and Max. Mylene and Ivan were stood with the others, waiting for Juleka, Rose and Luka. "Why couldn't the summer holidays last longer?!"
"We had two months off, Alix," Max stated as he walked up to her, making her groan before she grinned. "How was your holiday... other then... you know?"
"History Keepers," Alix replied, rolling her eyes. "It's been fairly good. Dad's still embarrassing and Jalil is still a history geek. When's Kim gonna be here?"
"Oh, he is currently stuck in traffic," Max replied, pushing up his glasses. "Mr Pigeon has been trying to get rid of cars. I'm surprised Alya isn't on the scene,"
"Eh," Alya shrugged, making Nino snigger. "It's Mr Pigeon's 60th time as an akuma and it will be over soon anyway. No one wants to watch that,"
As if on que, the miracle cure rushed throughout the city, fixing any issues the akuma had caused. The students grinned as they saw it before beginning to chat about the recent akumas and how Anatis and Lady Noir saved them. A few of them had been akumatized before going back to school. Nino had been one of them. He had been re-akumatized into the Bubbler as he wanted Summer to never end so he tried to get rid of the adults again to allow the summer holiday to continued. Fortunately, Anatis and Lady Noir had dealt with him pretty quickly. A few minutes after the cure had been cast, Juleka and Rose walked over, followed by Luka. At the same time, Marinette had rushed out of the bakery, holding a croissant in her mouth. She had ran over and hadn't seen Luka, who had been jogging to catch up with Rose and Juleka. The two of them knocked into each other and fell on the ground with Marinette landing on Luka. She jumped up and helped him up as he laughed it off.
"I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have looked where I was going!" She gushed, making him chuckle.
"It's ok, Marinette," He replied, smiling before he pulled a face as a limo pulled up. "I was rushing too so I should have been more careful as well,"
"Did I miss something?" Adrien asked as he climbed out, followed by Kagami. He smiled at her as he held her hand, making her smile back as she linked their fingers together. Instantly, Marinette cooed at their action, making both Adrien and Kagami blush a little. Alix laughed and moved her arm around Marinette.
"Just Marinette and Luka falling for each other," She grinned, making both of them blush a little bit too. However, the mood soured as they heard the screech of none other then Lila Rossi. They all looked over as she waved at them before she walked up to them, instantly making a number of them feel uncomfortable.
"Hi everyone!" She grinned before turning to Luka. "Hi, Luka! I'm so glad you decided to take the restraining order off me! I hope we can be friends,"
"I didn't take it off. It was granted on a temporary basis and I'll be in court tomorrow afternoon to get it reinstated," He replied in a calm but cold voice. "So no, we won't be friends. Just because it is currently inactive doesn't mean you can come near me so I suggest you back off, Rossi,"
Lila gave him a look before huffing and walking over to Alya.
"Can you believe his attitude?" She asked, rather loudly. It was obviously to make Luka hear. He took a small breathe and ignored her, turning back to Marinette. "I just want to fix where we went wrong and he won't even give me a chance,"
"Lila, you didn't exactly treat him nicely," Alya muttered, making Luka roll his eyes. It was more then that. "I mean you kissed him without his permission,"
"I misread the situation!" Lila gasped.
"Still..." Alya stated as Nino started to berate her, saying it wasn't cool to kiss people even if she thought it was but Marinette took Luka's hand and led him inside the school, making him smile a little as they walked over to the benches. They took a seat as he let out a sigh.
"You ok?" She asked, making him nod. "How come the restraining order ran out?"
"The court granted it on a temporary basis," He sighed, making her frown. "If the problem still occurs, we can get a fresh one which we'll be doing tomorrow. I asked if we could get it renewed before but apparently it needs to run out first and they review the case before granting a fresh one which can take up to two weeks to grant depending how bad the case is. There is a chance they won't grant a second one against her,"
"They should," Marinette stated, taking his hand in hers as he looked at her. She gently moved his hair, causing him to close his eyes. "Are you sleeping ok? You look tired,"
"Hmm... my nightmares aren't as bad," He muttered before a yawn escaped him. "But I'm not getting a lot of restful sleep. Music's been on my mind,"
"Oh, you writing some new songs?" She asked, making him smile before he shook his head. "Oh?"
"I've been practicing for that violin contest," He admitted, making her grin.
"You're entering it?!" She gasped, clearly excited. "Wait but weren't auditions for it a couple of days ago?"
"Yeah... I'm just waiting to find out if I got through to the next stage," He muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. He hadn't even told his ma or Juleka that he had entered yet. He didn't want to disappoint them if he didn't get through. There had been a lot of entries for it and a lot of talent. Luka wasn't sure if he could get through to the next stage so he decided to keep quiet about it until he knew for certain. "I don't know if I'll get through and I don't want to disappoint anyone if I didn't so I figured I'd tell Ma, Juleka and you if I got through but I guess you know now... sorry for not mentioning it,"
"Hey, it's ok," She smiled, making him smile back. "I get why but you're gonna get through to the next stage and blow those judges away!"
"Thanks, Melody," He smiled as the first bell rang. "We better go to classes,"
The two of them got up and walked over to the locker room as the other kids headed inside. Luka completely ignored Lila, who shoot a glare at him when she thought no one was watching before he put his stuff in his locker and grabbed what he needed for his class. Once that was done, he locked his locker and headed over to Marinette's locker as she put her things in and grabbed what she needed. The two of them left the locker room with their friends and headed upstairs to their classes.
"See you at Lunch?" She asked, causing him to nod before she gently kissed his cheek, making him blush. He smiled dreamily at her as she waved to him before heading into her classroom. He turned and walked over to Mrs Mendeleiev's class as Aurora hooked her arm with his and grinned.
"So you and Mari are an item?!" She grinned, clearly excited. He blushed a little. "Oh you are, aren't you?!"
"W-We're taking it slow," He muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. "Like we're not exclusively dating... just enjoying each other's company,"
"Oh my gosh! You're courting her!" Aurora grinned, making him blush as she giggled before she leaded against him as they joined the rest of their class. "I'm so proud! Our Lu is a true gentleman!!"
"Have you told her that you love her yet?" Mireille asked as Aurora let go of his arm and took her seat next to him. Luka rubbed his neck again. "You haven't, have you?"
"I mean we're taking it slow..." He mused, looking to the side. "And I know she likes me but I'm still unsure if it's just because I'm her friend or more... I'm probably just a friend to her..."
"More... it's definitely more," Marc stated, making everyone look at him. He was scribbling in his notebook but he looked up to address everyone. "She flutters to you like a bee to a flower... I would use a butterfly as an example but... akumas..."
"It's not their fault," Luka pointed out, making everyone look at him. "Hawkmoth uses the butterflies, just like he uses people,"
"Hmm... that is a good point," Marc smiled, writing something down. "Anyway, Marinette definitely likes you. She moves her hair, blushes and she also shows you her wrists and 'vulnerabilities'... which means she trusts you,"
"Trust and liking someone isn't the same thing," Luka pointed out but he couldn't help the smile on his face. He liked that she trusts him. "Still... it's nice that she trusts me,"
"She's also open with you, has a genuine look in her eye when she looks at you, she mirrors you a little bit and when you two talk, she leans towards you and acts like it is only the two of you in the world," Marc pointed out, making Luka blush. "All signs that at the very least, she has a crush on you,"
"How do you know this?" Luka asked, making Marc blush a little as he begin to fidget. "Not that it's a bad thing... I'm just curious,"
"I wanted to show that Lady Noir has feelings for Anatis in the comic so I researched body language for it plus it helps Nathaniel with expressions when he's drawing," Marc replied, playing with his hands. "I'm sorry if I crossed a line. I just think you should know that Marinette likes you a lot and definitely as more as a friend,"
"No, it's cool," Luka smiled before looking down. "I just guess... I like that she might like me but I'm just Luka so I guess I don't really see why..."
"Stop second guessing yourself, Couffaine," Felix stated, making everyone look at him. He was so quiet they had actually forgotten he was there. "Dupain-Cheng likes you. You like her so just date already,"
"Felix! Be nice!" Aurora gasped, causing him to give her a cheeky grin before she turned to Luka. "But he's right. Oh, you should ask her out on an actual date and make sure she knows it's a date date!"
"I don't know, Aurora..."
~Meanwhile in Miss Bustier's Class~
"You look happy," Alya grinned, making Marinette jump a little as she had been day-dreaming about watching Luka playing violin. Alya grinned, making Marinette look at her. "So you finally asked Luka out on a real date?"
"W-What?! No!" She blushed, covering her face with her hand. She wanted to but they were taking it slow. However, when she thought about it, she did want to been more then just what they were at the moment. She liked the idea of been his girlfriend. She liked the idea a lot. She really enjoyed going on their little dates and she had thought about kissing him a few times but hadn't done so because she wasn't sure if he wanted to. It seemed like he did but she didn't want to assume. She loved and respected him too much to do that. She looked up from her hands as Alya grinned at her. "I... I want to... but I'm not sure if he likes me like that. Like I know he likes me but I'm not sure if he likes me enough to want me to be his girlfriend,"
"But you want to be his girlfriend?" Alya asked as Rose gushed, leaning against Juleka who gave Marinette a small but happy smile. Everyone knew she shipped what they had dubbed 'Lukanette'. Marinette slowly nodded. "Girl, you need to ask him out,"
"I bet he would say yes!" Rose gushed, making Marinette blush even more.
"Luka definitely likes you," Mylene agreed as Alix rolled her eyes.
"I don't get the whole dating thing but you like him and he likes you then you should go for it," She added in, making Marinette smile. Even Chloe encouraged her in her own way. However, Lila kept to herself, digging her nails into her hands as she listened. She wanted to destroy Marinette and take everything from her but taking Luka from her will be really hard since he knows what she is like. Somehow, that freak had seen through her facade extremely quickly. Even Marinette hadn't seen through it straight away. It was only after Lila slipped up that Marinette had realized that she was lying and tried to expose her. As annoying as it was, Lila was partially glad because she couldn't stand the baker girl but she had to pretend to. Sure, she still had to pretend but before she couldn't do anything about it. Now, she could mess with her and that's exactly what she did. In fact, that's what she'll do. She might not be able to turn Luka onto her side but she could at the very least make Marinette asking him out impossible. Hell, Marinette or Luka might even get akumatized out of it. She could then claim that they hated her and it would be especially funny if Luka got akumatized. If it succeed, he would have to fight his friend for Hawkmoth and if it didn't... well, he'd be sick for a few days and out of her hair. She held back a smirk to herself as she pretended to listen to Miss Bustier. The day moved on and soon enough, it was lunch time. Marinette was getting her food and Lila was watching her, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Seeing Marinette walking towards the lunch table, she tried to trip her up but much to her annoyance that failed so she moved onto the next plan. She tried to get Marinette to call her out by saying something clearly false. Instead, Alya told her she didn't need to lie again and Marinette ignored her. She didn't even notice Nino rolling his eyes. After a few more attempts, she saw Luka walking in with his friends and annoyingly enough, his expression lit up when he saw Marinette. It was so obvious he had feelings for her that it sickened her. However, she also noticed a number of students looking at him. A few girls were looking at him with a dreamy expression but a couple of guys were glaring at him. Lila smirked as she saw one of the boys who she knew had a crush on Marinette, not that she understood why. She didn't know his name either and it didn't matter but luckily enough, he looked like Adrien and most of the school knew Marinette had a crush on a boy with blonde hair and green eyes. She could use that to ruin Marinette's chances with Luka by getting this boy involved. She excused herself from the table, not that Nino or Alya noticed and walked over to the boy. He looked up at her with mild surprise.
"Hi, I have a message from Marinette for you," She smiled, making him frown.
"Um... what is it?" He asked, a little confused.
"She asked me to tell you that she has a crush on you but is just too shy to ask you out," She stated, making him blink.
"Uh... isn't she with Couffaine?" He asked, making Lila mentally smirk. She knew they weren't together.
"Oh, no they're not actually dating," She stated, making him raise an eyebrow. "She sees him as a brother and really likes you,"
"Right... but aren't you that liar?" He asked, making her frown. "Doesn't Marinette hate you?"
"Look, I have an illness that makes me lie sometimes but I'm currently in therapy for it and it's helping so much," She replied, making him nod. "Besides, I don't lie about crushes and I want to make up for my behavior towards Marinette so I figured getting her with the guy she likes. Anyway, you should totally ask her out. I'm sure she'll say yes,"
"Well... I do like her..." He admitted, making Lila smirk. Though she morphed it into a friendly grin. He got up and walked over to Marinette, who was chatting to Luka. Lila returned back to her seat, just as Alya looked up and the guy talked to Marinette. He frowned as she gently let him down and asked her why she got her friend to tell him otherwise. Marinette looked at him confused as he pointed out Lila. She frowned and apologized to him before she walked over.
"Why did you tell that boy I like him?" She asked, crossing her arms. Lila gave her an innocent look.
"Oh, I thought you did," She gasped, making Marinette grit her teeth. "I'm so sorry. I thought that's who you were talking about in class today when you were saying about having a crush on a boy called Luke was it? Or was it Luka?"
Marinette's face went red as Lila gasped.
"Oh, no! I must have got the names mixed up," She gasped in fake regret. "I hope I didn't embarrass you! I was just trying to help you out... I mean you suffered so badly with your crush on Adrien that I didn't want you to suffer in the same way with your new crush but I should have known it was Luka you were crushing on. I just hope you're not stalking him like you-"
To everyone's surprise, Marinette slapped Lila across the face before storming out of the room. Lila held back a smirk but instantly started to cry. However, no one jumped to her defense. Instead, Luka rushed outside to check on Marinette and Alya leaned over to her as the rest of the room glared at her.
"Lila, girl, I know you were trying to help but you shouldn't have done that," She gasped, making Lila frown. "Everyone knows that Marinette has a thing for Luka and moved on from her crush on Adrien. You didn't need to lie to get her to ask Luka out. We don't do those sort of plans anymore,"
"O-oh, I thought it would be ok since you and the other girls have come up with plans like that before," Lila gasped, tears rolling down her face. "I didn't mean to embarrass her. I guess I deserved that slap..."
"Damn right!" Alix growled as the class glared daggers at her.
"I get it, Lila but Marinette was getting there," Alya replied, causing her to grip her fist. "It's not nice to reveal a crush like that and that poor guy... I get you were trying to encourage her but you shouldn't have told that other guy she liked him? What if he hadn't take no for answer?"
"Oh, no! I didn't think of that,"
"Yeah right," Nino muttered, making both Alya and Lila look at him in surprise. "It's clear you did all of that on purpose,"
"W-what? No!" Lila gasped as Alya looked shocked. "Why would I?"
"Because you hate Marinette and probably want Luka yourself," He pointed out, making her blink. She would have to be careful with Nino. "I mean all you do is lie. You lied to me about having a crush on Adrien, you framed Marinette and you lied about been friends with heroes,"
"Babe, that's enough," Alya gasped, making him look at her. "I get she lied but she's trying to be better and she did it to help Marinette, right Lila?"
"Of course," She lied, making Nino glare at her before he suddenly got up and walked off. Alya sighed and went to follow but Adrien stopped her.
"I'll go talk to him," He stated before walking away. Alya nodded and sat down as Lila mentally frowned. Her plan didn't go the way she wanted but at least, she embarrassed Marinette enough to make it awkward with Luka.
~The Art Room~
"Hey!" Adrien called out as Nino stormed in, slamming the door. He ran up to him and gently grabbed his arm. "Nino, calm down,"
"How can I?" He asked before sitting down and taking off his cap as he ran his hand over his head. "I had to say something, dude. I wasn't there for Marinette when Lila caused her to become Princess Justice. I actually believed her until Anatis exposed her and then this whole thing Alya still believing in her. It nearly drove us apart and I keep telling her that Lila isn't a nice person and is lying to hurt people but Alya still wants to see the best in her and I love that because it's sweet but it's wasted on someone like Lila. She doesn't want to be nice! She didn't do that to make amends with Marinette. She did that to hurt her and Alya can't or doesn't want to see that. I love her but she is acting dumb around Lila!"
"Whoa, it's ok, Nino," Adrien gasped, kneeling down as Nino tried to calm down. "I get it. You just want to look out for your friend and your girl. And someone like Lila is nasty but Alya has to realize that herself. You just need to be there for her when she does,"
"... you're right, dude," Nino replied, nodding. "I'm sorry... I just... I just don't want Lila to destroy her faith in people but I also know she needs to realize Lila isn't the person she thinks she is,"
"I know," Adrien stated, sitting next to him. "I wish I had realized sooner myself but if you want, I can try and talk to Alya bout Lila,"
"That be cool," Nino sighed. "I wish I had known before Anatis exposed her. I can't believe it took that for me to see the truth,"
"I know the feeling," Adrien sighed, looking down. "I never realized how damaging her lies could be before Anatis called her out... I really thought she was like a tabloid and that she was just doing it for attention but after he pointed out that she was hurting myself as well as others, I realized how damaging lies can be,"
"Yeah," Nino replied before he suddenly looked up. "Wait... Anatis called her out in front of you?"
"Y-Yeah, like a few hours before he exposed her online," Adrien replied. He was sure he had told Nino about that. "She had tried to claim she was a descendant of a superheroine and that Marinette had threatened her into blaming Chloe,"
"Y-You knew before the rest of us?" Nino asked, making Adrien frown. "Did you know before Anatis called her out? She use to claim that she knew Aspik and Ryuko and you always seemed to ignore that..."
"Well, I thought at first she was telling the truth but then she said something that I knew was a lie..." Adrien admitted, making Nino start at him. "I asked Nathalie about it and she just said to ignore her like a tabloid and that she would expose herself..."
"You knew and you didn't think to warn us? Me?!" Nino gasped, surprising Adrien. "Did you not think that we wouldn't realize?!"
"I honestly thought she would expose herself and I didn't think she would go so far," Adrien gasped as Nino looked at him with hurt, making him realize how wrong he had been. He should have exposed her straight away and he would if he could go back in time. "I'm sorry, Nino. I wish I had told you and the rest of the class. I could have saved everyone so much pain but I really thought she would expose herself and disappear like a tabloid paper,"
"Well, she didn't!" Nino gasped, pinching his nose. "God, Adrien! This isn't a fairytale! Things don't just randomly fix themselves! You should have told us! I... I don't know how I can trust you anymore..."
"Nino!" Adrien gasped, surprised but Nino walked out of the art room, causing Adrien to follow. "Nino, wait!"
Nino ignored him and kept walking, failing to notice the akuma and amok heading towards him but Adrien did. He gasped and suddenly pushed him out of the way, causing Nino to turn around in anger.
"What the- Adrien?" Nino gasped, feeling his anger melting away as he noticed Adrien gripping his head and stepping backwards towards the wall. A purple butterfly mask appeared around his eyes as he tried to fight off Hawkmoth's control. Nino gasped and reached out his hand as he realized that Adrien had taken an akuma meant for him. He gripped his shoulders as Adrien tried to fight off Hawkmoth's influence. "Adrien, dude! Fight him!"
"I'm not going to listen to you!" He gasped before groaning. "I won't be one of your puppets, Hawkmoth!"
"That's right, dude!" Nino gasped, trying to encourage him. "Think only positive thoughts! You've got this, Bro!"
"I won't do evil for you!" Adrien gasped but his eyes widen as Hawkmoth spoke to him. Nino slowly let go as he remembered what it was like giving into him. Hawkmoth had a way with words that made it seem like the greatest idea of all time. No one could resist for long, even Adrien and both of them knew it as Adrien's arms fell limp to his side. A single tear slid down his cheek as he gave one last look of desperation towards his friend. "N-Nino... run..."
"Adrien!" Nino gasped as the purple smog engulfed him and a small blue smog appeared next to him before it disappeared, revealing his akuma form. He actually didn't look much different or scary at all. His outfit had changed into a green tunic with leaves on his sleeves and he had matching green pants. Material shoes were on his feet and he had a dagger attached to his hip, along with a pan-flute. His hair was still blonde but it was messier in style and he had a green mask across his eyes. The only thing that he could see right now that was unusual was his ears that were now pointed. In fact, Adrien actually reminded Nino of Peter Pan. Nino stepped forward, unsure what to do but maybe he could find the akumatized item before Adrien did anything. He went to reach for him but Adrien snapped open his eyes, revealing that his scleras were now green and his irises "A-Adrien?"
"Not anymore," He replied, smiling as Nino stepped back in fear. Adrien took out a small bag and reached in it before taking his hand out and blowing the dust in Nino's face. His eyes rolled up into his head as he fell down onto the ground. A golden glow surrounded him as Adrien grinned. "Don't worry, Nino! You'll be seeing me soon... but first, I have a game to play! Come on, Fee!"
He flew up into the air and laughed happily before he flew off with his sentimonster following him.
~In the Courtyard~
"Marinette!" Luka gasped as he rushed out of the canteen after her. He frowned as he looked around but he couldn't see so he took a small breathe and closed his eyes, listening for the familiar song. He picked up on it and luckily it was close by so he followed it, coming to one of the staircases. He stopped and looked underneath. Hugging her knees while sitting underneath it was Marinette. He crawled next to her and sat down, making her look up from her knees. Her eyes were bloodshot and her tears were tear-stained. Luka gave her a soft look before he opened his arms. Instantly, she crawled into them and wrapped her arms around his torso as he hugged her. "Are you ok?"
"E-Embarrassed," She mumbled, looking up at him. "N-Not of my feelings for you but just how it came out... I don't make you uncomfortable, do I?"
"No, you don't," He replied, moving part of her hair out of her face. "If you did, I would have told you already but I like been with you. Lila was just been a bitch because she is a black hearted coward,"
"But... now you know I like you.." She mumbled, looking down as she pulled away.
"Well, I hope so... we have been going on dates with each other..."
"Yeah but only like small dates. They're practically friend dates," She mumbled, pressing her fingers together as she still felt embarrassed. She really liked Luka but she hoped he liked her but they were probably just really close friends... even though she wanted to be more. She would love to be his girlfriend but there's no way he would like her that much, especially after Lila's stun. "Lila meant that I like you... like really like you... and I'm sure you don't like me. I mean I'm sure you like me enough to go on a few small time dates but I don't think you like me as more then that. We're just friends... right?"
"Marinette... I-"
"Marinette! Luka!" Adrien's voice stated, causing Marinette to gasp and bring her hands to her face. Luka looked behind him as Adrien walked over. Before he could reach, Adrien suddenly blew a golden dust in his face, causing Luka to fall to the ground as he heard Marinette shout before he heard a thumb as well. He tried to look over and saw Marinette laying on the ground as Adrien grinned to him before he looked over at Luka. "Don't resist it, Luka! This is your happy ending!"
Luka felt himself getting heavily before he fell into darkness...
~Hawkmoth's Lair~
"Dusuu, fall my feathers," Mayura declared, turning back into Nathalie. As soon as she did, she felt dizzy and began to cough. Hawkmoth went to see if she was ok but to his surprise, she pushed him away. He gave her a puzzling look as he turned back into Gabriel. "I'm fine, sir... but why didn't you recall the akuma? Adrien-"
"It would have been too suspicious," He replied, making her frown. "That friend of his is the boyfriend of the lady blogger. If he tells her then she'll publish it and it will end up in Anatis' hand which could lead him to find out that I am Hawkmoth. I have managed to keep his investigations at bay but that would only fuel his belief that he is correct,"
"I see, Sir," Nathalie replied as they made their way back to the lift. It took them a few minutes but once they were back in his office, she took a glass of water and sat down. Gabriel frowned to himself as he began to work on designs while keeping an eye on the news. As soon as Anatis and Lady Noir were on the scene, he would transform back into Hawkmoth but right now, Heureux Fin was wreaking havoc across Paris so he might as well do some designs while observing the situation. It also gave Nathalie time to rest. He glanced over to the news as Heureux Fin burst into the news reporter. He transformed Alec into one of the ugly step-sisters and turned Nadja into a version of the boy who cried Wolf before he addressed the camera.
"People of Paris! I am Heureux Fin, bringer of happiness! I invite all of your to the grandest ball in the whole of Paris, brought you to by me and to be hosted at Agreste Manor!!" He declared, making both Nathalie and Gabriel to stare at the screen before he grinned and flew out.
"Wait what?!" Nathalie gasped before the doors suddenly burst opened and Heureux Fin flew in landing on the table.
"Father!" He declared, grinning as Gabriel stared at him. "We're having a grand ball and I've invited everyone in Paris!"
"Absolutely not," Gabriel declared but he regretted it. As soon as the words left his mouth, Heureux Fin's expression turned dark and his sentimonster, Fairytale, transformed into his shadow before it wrapped around Gabriel, trapping him in place. Nathalie jumped up in shock as Heureux Fin walked across the table towards his father. "Adrien, stop- hmm!"
The shadow covered his mouth.
"I'm not Adrien anymore! I'm Heureux Fin!" He declared, taking out his bag of dust. "We're having a grand ball and all of Paris is going to come whenever you like it or not!"
"Hmm!" He declared as Heureux Fin took a handful of dust and blew it in his face, causing his shadow to let go him as he fell to the floor and began to glow gold as well. Nathalie rushed over to the door but the shadow got there beforehand, causing her to back up from it. She felt a tap on her shoulder before she turned around. Heureux Fin was hovering right next to her.
"Adr-" She started but he grinned and blew the dust in her face, causing her to collapse to the floor as well. Heureux Fin turned to his shadow and grinned. "Go and bring our Princess Charming. She can help us set up the ball with her skill!! Oh and why you're at it, spread this all over Paris,"
The shadow grinned and nodded, turning back into it's fairy form before it took the pouch that Heureux Fin handed to it. He had already transformed those who he needed to. Now he just had to set up the ball. He was even willing to let the cat and the beetle come to the ball. Though he will take their miraculous from them before the clock strikes Midnight.
~Back to the School Yard~
"Luka!" A voice echoed as he slowly came around. He slowly blinked and opened his eyes, causing him to notice that he was laid on the ground. He slowly sat up and looked around as he recognized his surroundings as the school yard. Tikki flew in front of him and let out a sigh of relief. "You're ok,"
"What happened?" He asked as he looked around. He remembered been in the courtyard with Marinette. He was making sure she was ok after Lila pulled one of her tricks and was about to fully confess to her but then they got interrupted by Adrien, only he didn't look like himself. In fact, he looked like he had been akumatized. Luka's eyes widen as he looked around and saw Marinette was gone. "Where's Marinette?!"
"She was taken by something that looked like a shadow," Tikki stated, making Luka look at her. "I think your friend was akumatized.."
"We have to transform," He declared, standing up. "Tikki, sp-"
"Luka!" Juleka's voice echoed, making him stop and turn to Tikki. He went to open his hoodie, only to find that his clothes had changed. His new outfit resembled the waiter outfit Marinette had made him but it was more ragged and wore out. He blinked before pointing to his hair which was messier then usual. Tikki got the idea and hid in his hair as Juleka rushed over to him. Like himself, she was wearing a different outfit too. She was wearing a white dress with a blood red overcoat, matching red shoes and a ruby and gold circlet. Her hair was her natural color, which like himself was raven brown, almost black and her lips were blood red. As soon as he saw her, he realized she was suppose to be Snow White. Following her was Rose, who was wearing a pink dress in a style similar to Juleka's. "Are you ok?!"
"I'm alright," Luka admitted. "Just confused about the new outfit,"
"Oh, Luka must be Cinderella!" Rose gasped before yawning. Of course, she would be sleeping beauty. "Sorry!"
"What's that?" Juleka asked, making him frown and look down. She was pointing to a golden envelope on the floor, causing Luka to pick it up and opened it. "Well?"
"It's an invite to a ball at Agreste Castle," He stated, making him frown before he read it out. "Citizens of Paris, I, Heureux Fin, am throwing the finest ball in all of Paris! Everyone from all walks off lives are invited so they find their happy ending and forever after! Even the beetle and his cat are invited as long as they promise not to cause a fuss and hand over their miraculous! The ball starts at 7pm tonight at Agreste Manor..."
"That's in half an hour!" Rose gasped, making him blink as she yawned. "Sorry! I'm just really tired,"
"No worries, Rose," He replied before continuing to read. "The Dresscode is Fairytale theme. Though that shouldn't be a problem for anyone in Paris..."
Luka's eyes widen, along with Juleka's and before anyone could say anything else, the two of them had ran out of the school. They came to a stop as they looked around. There were a number of giant beanstalks, thorn bushes and trees, making them realize that Heureux Fin had transformed the city into something out of a fairytale. The Grand Paris hotel was now a huge castle, there was a number of smaller castles and huts around. To Luka's surprise, the bakery had been transformed into a tower. Luka rushed over and made his way inside, finding Tom and Sabine had been transformed into a king and queen. He wasn't sure what fairytale they were from but he was more concerned about Marinette. They looked up at him and rose an eyebrow at his outfit.
"I see you got hit as well," Sabine sighed, making him nod. "Are you ok? You look pale, dear,"
"Is Marinette here?" He asked, making the two shake their heads as they looked at him with worry. "She was with me at school but the akuma ambushed us and when I woke up, I was dressed like this and Marinette was gone,"
"We can help you look for her," Sabine stated, lifting her dress a little and following him outside with Tom. Luka nodded and led them to where Juleka was. He frowned as he noticed she was staring. He followed her look, causing him to stare at the floating ship. For a second, he thought it was Guard-O-War again until he realized it resembled the Liberty. A rope was thrown down and Anarka swung down, making them look at her. She was wearing a red captain's coat, black pants and boots but the most interesting thing was her right hand was replaced with a hook. She grinned at them.
"Ahoy, Me Hearties!" She grinned as a crocodile jumped down and landed next to her. Weirdly enough, they could hear ticking coming from it. "I see that scallywag hit ye all with his cursed magic,"
"I'm afraid so," Sabine answered as a puff of glitter appeared next to Anarka before it reformed into Penny. She was wearing a silvery suit, had fairy wings and was holding a wand. "Oh, Miss Penny, you look lovely,"
"Thank you," Penny smiled before turning to the kids. "Everyone ok?"
"Well, no one's hurt but we've all been turned into something out of a fairytale," Juleka muttered, gesturing towards the school where a giant version of Ivan stood. Luka rose an eyebrow as he smiled and waved at him. He waved back before turning to the others. "At least, Anatis will be able to fix this,"
"Have you seen Marinette, Penny?" He asked, making her frown as she made a thoughtful face.
"No but I have an idea where she might end up," She stated, making Luka raise an eyebrow. "At the ball. Everyone in Paris is invited and Marinette is friends with Adrien,"
"She's also the class representative," Rose gasped before yawning again.
"And she's the best at making parties and organizing things," Juleka pointed out, making Luka frown before his eyes widen.
"You don't think Adrien has taken her to help set up the ball, do you?" He asked, making everyone look at him.
"It makes sense," Penny stated, making him frown. "We should attend the party then,"
"Aye!" Anarka grinned as Penny cast a critical eye towards Luka, making him blink.
"Something wrong?" He asked, making her look in his eyes.
"Marinette would never forgive me if I let you go to a ball dressed in rags," She pointed, making him blink. "And since I've been turned into what is clearly the fairy godmother... it makes sense that I have the ability to do this,"
She waved her wand at Luka, causing a silver mist to move around him, causing him to shield his face as it changed his outfit. Once it disappeared, he lowered them and looked at his new outfit. He was now wearing a light blue vest with dark blue detail and silver buttons with matching light blue pants. There was a blue ruffle tie around his neck and he had a light blue gloves on his hands that only covered part of his hands and middle fingers. His boots were a dark crystal blue and sparkled like they were made from glass. Over his shirt, he had a silver tailcoat with a small amount of frills on it. It felt like it was made from the finest silk there was and his hair had been tidied up but remained in his normal style.
"Ok, now you can definitely go to the ball," Penny grinned, clearly enjoying herself. Luka would have to find a way to sneak away from them at some point during the ball so he could transform into Anatis but at least this way he could get in there without been spotted. Now just to get there. Maybe he could get close enough to Adrien to find out where the akumatized item is.
~Agreste Castle~
"Are you coming to the ball as well?" Luka asked as the ship came to a stop outside the castle. Penny looked over and shook her head as Anarka walked over and handed her a bottle of rum. "I'll take that as a no,"
"Well, I am a pirate, Lad," Anarka grinned. "We'll just wait here until Anatis fixes everything. Now go have fun at the ball!"
"Right," He smiled before Penny lowered a plank for them to walk. Juleka and Rose went first before Luka followed. He felt nervous as he walked through the gates with a number of other people that looked like something out of a fairytale. Once he had located Marinette and made sure she was fine, he would find a way to transform. While his mother was flying them to the castle, he took a moment to check on Tikki. Luckily, she hadn't been affected by the change of clothes but gushed over his outfit. She was now resting inside his jacket, waiting for him to find the perfect moment to transform. He hadn't seen anything on Lady Noir yet so he guessed she was in a similar situation to himself. He took a deep breathe and followed Juleka and Rose in. The ball room was the grandest room he had ever seen. It was clearly based on an enchanted forest and hundreds of people there including a number of his classmates. Luka rested his hands on the edge of the banister and kept himself hidden a little as he looked around and observed the room in his luck vision, noticing the amount of exits in the place before he turned his attention to the guests. Rose and Juleka had joined the others and started to dance but Luka was observing everyone. In the back of the room was two golden thrones. A woman dressed as a queen but with a pig's nose was sat one. Judging by the color of her hair, it was Gabriel's assistant Nathalie. He noticed a frog king sat next to her that looked a little bit moody and he suspected it had seen better days. Judging by the smirk on Nathalie's face when she looked at the frog, it was Gabriel. There were other fairytale themed characters to. A lot of the guests were transformed into one might reference to as stock characters such as royalty and witches but it seemed that Adrien's friends were themed around main characters from fairytales. There was a wooden puppet next to his maker, making Luka realize it was Max and Marvok as. Alya and Nino had been transformed into Beauty and the Beast only Alya was the beast. Kim resembled a mermaid and seemed to be holding something in his hand while he sat in a bathtub. That made Luka assume he was the Little Mermaid. Near him was Alix who was talking to Aurora. Both appeared to be characters from Alice in Wonderland. Alix was clearly the white rabbit and Aurora herself was Alice. They were also talking to Nathaniel, who was Red Riding Hood, Marc who looked like a warrior, Mireille... she was the blue fairy and Jean who was dressed as Aladdin. It took Luka a second but he realized Marc was Atreyu from the Neverending Story. He took a deep breathe as he looked over the remainder of the guests, hoping to find Marinette. The Bourgeois family were there. Audrey was the Queen of Hearts and Andre was the cowardly lion but Chloe was dressed in a beautiful dress that resembled a Swan. Clara Nightingale was nearby. She was dressed as Clara from the nutcracker by the looks of her dress and she was talking with Felix who resembled a pixie. In the far corner of the room was an old witch, which he realized was Lila. Luka wasn't surprised that she had been turned into that. He moved his eyes from her and scanned the rest of the room until his eyes landed on Marinette. She was dressed in a pink tail coat with a golden waist coat and matching pants. Her boots were dark brown and her hair was tied into a loose ponytail. She had a ruffle tie around her neck and a pink rose pinned into her hair. It was simple outfit but she looked very beautiful. However, she seemed to be look around. Her eyes moved over to where he was and a look of relief came onto her face as she saw him. A blush crept over his cheek as that look turned from relief to awe. She must have spotted his outfit. Alya was next to her and said something to her but she shook her head as Luka took a deep breathe and walked over to the staircase. He descended down them as Marinette pushed through the crowd, causing people to look at her as she moved over.
"Hi..." She smiled shyly as she met him at the bottom of the stairs. "You look amazing,"
"T-thanks..." He blushed, rubbing the back of his neck as well. "You look beautiful,"
"Really?" She asked, making him nod before she moved closer as if to inspect him. "I'm glad you're ok. I was really worried when I woke up and you weren't around. I thought Adrien had hurt you. He assured me that he didn't and that he needed my help to set up this. I was gonna post on the akuma alert app but Adrien seems harmless and the heroes haven't turned up yet,"
"I know," Luka replied, nodding. "I think they might be stuck in their civilian forms and haven't had the chance to escape yet,"
"That makes sense," Marinette replied, nodding before shrugging. "Oh, well,"
Luka nodded in reply and looked around as the music changed. It was the same song they danced to at Chloe's party and in the moonlight. He had a feeling Adrien was behind the song choice. Marinette smiled as she looked around too before Luka cleared his throat nervously.He knew he should make some excuse to get away so he can transform but it would just seem odd to just sneak off. Besides, Adrien seemed harmless as an akuma and he could fix everything later. He should be able to enjoy himself, especially since he was with Marinette.
"W-Would you like to dance? It's our song... You know... never mind it's stu-"
"Yes," She stated, making him look at her. "I would love to dance with you,"
Luka broke into a smile as she grabbed his hand and lead him to the dance floor. The two of them moved together, ignoring everyone else as they just danced and zoned out into their own little world. Luka couldn't help but smile when Marinette leaned against him as they swayed. The more they danced, the more a fog seem to cloud their mind, making them forget as they continued to enjoy each other's company. Around them, the same thing seemed to be happening to everyone else. Nino, who wanted to talk to Adrien and apologize to him, decided he could just do it later. After all, he was having a good time and it was thanks to Adrien. The other guests were the same. Aurdey didn't care what people thought about her, Chloe was complimenting Sabrina and others and Marc wasn't hiding behind his hair. He was laughing and happy. Lila was talking happily to people as if she wasn't a malicious witch. Her lies and fake personality forgotten by both herself and everyone else. Even Gabriel had forgotten that he was Hawkmoth and that he was after the miraculous to bring back his wife. Instead, he was sat in Nathalie's hand as they danced, all of their worries forgotten. Luka smiled as he swayed with Marinette. His own worries lifting away and been forgotten as they danced.
"I love you..." He whispered, making her suddenly look up at him with surprise in her eyes. A blush crept over his face as she searched his features. A smile broke through as she looked at him as well.
"I love you too," She stated, making him stare at her before he grinned like a love struck fool. She smiled back and gently leaned on her head against his shoulder again as they swayed. Luka smiled and pulled her a little closer to him as he rested his chin on top of her head before closing his eyes as they swayed on the spot with their friends grinning and whispering as they finally confessed their feelings for each other. However, their peace was short-lived as Heureux Fin flew in and landed on the stairs case, crowing as he did.
"Hello, Paris!!" He shouted, grinning before a fairy like creature flew over, trailing dust over everyone. "Let's get this party started!!"
He laughed and flew up into the air as everyone cheered before the party kicked into a swing. Everyone laughed and danced without a single care as the castle shifted into a real forest. A huge roaring fire was created in the middle, causing everyone to dance wildly around it including Heureux Fin. It was like something out of a fairytale with wild fae and characters dancing around. Sure, it would be a mess in the morning but Luka couldn't bring himself to care. Just like everyone else, he knew Lady Noir and Anatis would fix it, even if the heroes hadn't turned up yet but that didn't matter. Now was the time to have fun. The music changed into a fast paced song, causing everyone to clap and dance faster as the evening went on. Song after song, played and Viper laughed as he spun around arm in arm with Ladybug but he suddenly stopped when he saw someone standing in the crowd, watching. He let go out of Marinette's arm as he stared towards the figure but Carapace knocked into him, making him look over.
"Everyone ok, dude?" He asked as Viper blinked.
"Oh, I thought I saw someone over there," He replied, looking over again but the person was gone. "Huh... guess they went away,"
"Ah don't worry too much!" Carapace laughed, joining the party again as he howled and danced around the fire with Rena and the others. Frowning to himself, Viper glanced over to where the person had been. He felt like he knew that person and something had changed but he couldn't place his mind on it. He shrugged and turned around to dance again but something inside his mind niggled at him. Something felt wrong. Very wrong but he didn't know what it was. It just felt like he had forgotten something. He groaned a little as he felt his head ache and very slowly, the fog began to lift. It still wasn't clear what he had forgotten but it was definitely something. He moved to the side and sat down as he held his head. Ladybug moved over and leaned down in front of him. He looked up at her and frowned. Was she always dressed similar to Rena? For some reason, he was sure she was dressed as a princess before.
"Hey, you ok?" She asked, making him look over. "You look pale,"
"My head hurts," He replied, frowning. She frowned back and sat next to him, gently rubbing his back. "I feel like I've forgotten something important,"
"Really?" She asked. "What do you think it is?"
"I don't know," He replied, looking down. He frowned as he noticed his outfit had changed as well. Like Rena, Carapace and Ladybug, he was dressed in what he could only described as ragged clothing. He was in a teal green tunic with dark teal breeches and material shoes but he was certain he hadn't been wearing it before hand. He was sure he had been wearing something similar to Cinderella. That's what his fairy godmother put him in. Wait... not his fairy godmother but Penny! His eyes widen as he remembered her and his family. She had been transformed into the fairy godmother and his mother had been transformed into Captain Hook by an akuma. His eyes widen even more as he remembered Juleka and Rose. They were Snow White and Sleeping Beauty respectively and Marinette... Marinette had been Princess Charming. He glanced over and saw Rose and Juleka dancing by the fire. They were dancing as if there was no care in the world. He turned to look to Marinette, who was looked at him with worry and fear. He stood up as she watched him. "There's an akuma.. we have to get out of here,"
"What's an akuma?" She asked, confused before gasping. "It is to do with that nasty pirate-"
"Marinette, listen to me," He gasped, cupping her face. "Do you remember who your parents are?"
"I don't have any, silly and my name is Ladybug," She giggled, making him frown. "We're the lost kids, remember? Part of Fin's crew. We never grow up and we get to play all the time. You know that, Viper,"
"Viper?" He asked, frowning.
"It's your name," She giggled, tapping the side of his head. "You came here with Tigress and Pigella,"
"Tigress and Pigella?" He asked, causing her to point to Juleka and Rose. He frowned and shook his head before gently grabbing her shoulders. "Listen to me. None of this is real. It's the effect of the akuma,"
"Viper, you're scar-"
"My name isn't Viper, it's Luka," He gasped, making her frown. "And your name is Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Your parents are Tom Dupain and Sabine Cheng. You're 15 years old and a fashion designer..."
"This game isn't funny, Viper,"
"It's not a game," He gasped before he took a deep breathe. Something told him he needed to wake her up as well. "Remember what I said to you just before Kitty Section played live. You are an extraordinary girl, Marinette. Clear as a music note, sincere as a melody. You have been the song I hear in my head since we first met..."
Recognition flowed into Marinette's eyes as the fog began to lift for her. She gasped and looked around, panicked.
"Luka?" She gasped, making him let out a sigh of relief. "What happened? My mind feels foggy and confused,"
"There's an akuma but I can't remember everything. I just know we need to get out now," He gasped, grabbing her hand and leading her away from the fire. Everyone else was having too much fun to notice. The farther they got away from the fire and the others, the clearer their minds got until they fully remembered everything including that they are heroes and that they needed a chance to escape and transform. Luka turned to Marinette, making her look at him. "I'm going to see if I can find Anatis. He might have been affected by the spell as well,"
"Right," She nodded. "I should find Lady Noir as well,"
He nodded before they were their separate ways. He slipped into the garden and hid behind a rose bush before letting Tikki out. He found her in his pocket asleep. He poked her and woke her up, making her yawn.
"Luka?" She asked, making him slight in relief. "What happened?"
"You feel asleep and I fell under the akuma's spell but now it's time to rewrite this story," He stated, making her nod before he swiped his earrings and transformed into Anatis. The rest of the fog completely cleared. He took out his yoyo and made his way back into the forest to fight Heureux Fin. He spun his yoyo when he came to the fire as all of the 'lost kids' looked at him with annoyed expressions. Heureux Fin got up from his throne and flew over, landing in front of him.
"So you finally turned up, Bugboy," He declared, glaring at him as the lost kids sneered and shouted. "You know I'm just trying to let people have fun and helped everyone get their happy endings,"
"By forcing them to forget who they are?" Anatis replied back, shaking his head. "That isn't how to help people... Adrien,"
"My name is Heureux Fin!" He shouted back, taking to the air. "Besides, you can't catch me! Unlike me, you can't fly,"
"He might not be able to fly but he isn't alone!" A voice shouted, causing Heureux Fin to look behind him as Lady Noir jumped on him. He managed to throw her off, causing her to land next to Anatis. "Got a plan?"
"Not yet," He replied as Heureux Fin laughed and taunted them. "We need to ground him so we can find the akuma,"
"Ok,"
"You can't catch me!" Heureux Fin shouted before whistling. The fairy like creature flew over to him. "Fairytale, deal with this losers!"
Fairytale turned into a giant wolf and landed on the ground, making Anatis and Lady Noir stare at it.
"Great, he has a sentimonster," Lady Noir gasped as the wolf changed at her. She hit it with her baton as Anatis threw up his yoyo and summoned his lucky charm, which was a shoe and a sock. Anatis rose an eyebrow at it with confusion but before he could work it out, Heureux Fin tried to grab it off him. He jumped out of the way and stepped back, dropping the sock in the process. However, he was grabbed by the lost kids as Lady Noir was knocked back by the sentimonster. Anatis struggled against the lost kids as Heureux Fin flew over.
"Now we can finally finding out who's behind that mask," He stated, reaching for his earrings. Anatis' luck vision kicked in, highlighting Heureux Fin himself, the shoe and the trees as a plan formed in his head.
"None of this is real!" Anatis suddenly shouted, making Heureux Fin stop reaching for his earrings. "It's all a lie created by your powers. You're not Heureux Fin, you're Adrien Agreste! And this isn't a forest!"
"You're lying!" Heureux Fin shouted but he lowered closer to the ground again, causing the lost kids to look at him with a little confusion. Seeing his chance, Anatis yanked him self free and threw the shoe, causing everyone to gasp it flew towards tree tops. Heureux Fin gasped and went to fly after it but Anatis stopped him, using his yoyo. The shoe hit the top, shattering one of the skylights before it fell down with shattered glass. The lost kids gasped and realization appeared in their eyes, causing Heureux Fin to realize. He fell down to the ground, allowing Anatis to recall his yoyo. Heureux Fin yelled out and charged at him but before he could hit, Lady Noir got the upper hand on the Sentimonster and threw it into him, causing it to fall on top of him before Anatis threw his yoyo, tying Heureux Fin and the Sentimonster to one of the trees with his yoyo. "Let me go!! Fairytale, atta- hmm!"
To everyone's surprise, Nino shoved the lucky charm sock into Heureux Fin's mouth, cutting him off and causing Heureux Fin to look at him in surprise and slight betrayal.
"I'm sorry, Adrien," He stated, taking the ring off and turning to Anatis, holding it out to him. "The akuma and the amok are in there. He took them to stop me from been the victim,"
"Thank you, Nino," Anatis replied, taking the ring. "Kitten, would you mind?"
"Cataclysm!" She called as he flipped the ring, tossing it towards her. She caught it and it rushed in her grip, causing the akuma and the amok to escape. Anatis recalled his yoyo, causing Heureux Fin to fall to his knees as Fairytale disappeared in blue smog before he threw out his yoyo and captured the akuma and the amok in it before releasing them. Lady Noir picked the shoe and handed it to him, causing him to smile as he took it. "Should I get the sock as well?"
"The shoe will work fine," He replied before tossing it up in the air again. "Miraculous Ladybugs!!"
The shoe burst into the cure and spreaded throughout the forest, getting rid of the trees and fire as it turned back into Agreste Manor. It washed over the party guests, turning them back to normal and restoring them to where they had been originally before bursting through the windows and spreading across Paris, turning it back into the city they loved. Heureux Fin turned back into Adrien and looked up confused as the heroes fist-bumped each other. Gabriel and Nathalie also looked around confused.
"How did I get here?" He asked, confused before he noticed them. His eyes widen in realization and dread. "Oh, no! I was akumatized, wasn't I?"
"Yes but I know you took it to stop Nino from been the akuma," Anatis stated, helping him to his feet as Adrien stammered an apology, "No need for an apology, Adrien,"
"But I hurt people!" He gasped, making the heroes look at each other. "I did hurt people, didn't I?"
"Adrien, you threw a massive party and turned people into fairytale characters," Lady Noir explained. "The most trouble you caused was causing them to forget their troubles. You didn't hurt anyone,"
"But Nino... he must hate me," Adrien groaned, covering his face. Anatis frowned. "I... I should have never trusted Lila! All she does is hurt people and she upset my friend Marinette and Nino got upset with Alya because even though she told Lila off, she thought Lila was trying to help and fit in, just like I did. I offered to talk to her, to help her see the error of her ways like I did but in the process, Nino discovered I knew about Lila before anyone else and got upset that I didn't tell him like I should have!! I upset him and I saw an akuma coming for him! I couldn't let him down or fail to protect him again so I pushed him out of the way but the akuma and amok got in my ring and I tried to resist I swear. I-"
"Adrien, calm down," Anatis stated, making him look at him. "Yes, you made a mistake with the whole Lila thing but that doesn't make you a bad friend. Talk to Nino and get him to help you with understanding social situations. None of this would have happened if you were taught how to interact with people your age and allowed to interact with them,"
He shoot a look toward Gabriel, who looked at him with shock.
"How dare you suggest that I'm the cause for this?!" Gabriel gasped. Anatis was ready to chew him out but to everyone's surprise, Nathalie stepped forward.
"Anatis is actually correct, sir," She stated, making Gabriel look at her. "While his grades are excellent, he does lack in understanding normal social situations due to his isolated upbringing,"
She turned to look at Anatis.
"Which is we will work on," She stated, making him nod before she lead Adrien out, promising to get him some ice cream and to clear his schedule for a couple of days. Both Gabriel and Anatis stared in surprise as she lead him out before Gabriel turned to Anatis and held out his hand.
"A thank you is in order," He stated as Anatis looked at it with distrust. "Is something wrong?"
"I'm sure you saw how I call out a number of people for their behavior," He stated, making Gabriel retract his hand. "Well, you're heading to the top of the list, Mr Agreste. Adrien isn't some puppet or property. He is your son and if you keep going down this path you have chosen, you're gonna end up losing him forever,"
"Is that a threat, Anatis?" Gabriel asked. He was certain the young hero didn't know he was Hawkmoth but he suspected the boy still suspected him. "Or a promise?"
"Neither, Mr Agreste," He replied, making him raise an eyebrow. "It's a warning and if I were you, sir, I would heed it. Let's go, Kitten,"
The two heroes walked out of the door, making Mr Agreste frown in a dark manner.
"Soon enough, Anatis, I will crush you like the insect you are,"
~A Couple of Days Later~
"So Adrien's schedule is been relaxed a little bit and he's asked me to help him to understand social ques," Nino explained as he and Marinette walked up to the school. "Though he won't be back in school for a couple of more days. Apparently, Nathalie is letting him have sweets and watch whatever he wants,"
"That's good," Marinette replied before seeing Luka sat on one of the benches, listening to music. "Hey, would you mind going ahead? I need to do something,"
"Sure thing, dudette," Nino smiled as he saw her looking at Luka. He grinned. "Go get him, tiger,"
"Nino!" She gasped, blushing as he laughed and walked off. Licking her lips, she began to walk over. Since been restored, she hadn't had a chance to talk to Luka. She had tried to text him but he barely answered and she had a feeling is because of the party. She wasn't sure if it was the affect of Heureux Fin but Luka had said he loved her and she told him she loved him back. She did but she wasn't sure if he knew if she was been sincere. She had a feeling that he thought it was because of the effects of the akuma and in a way, she thought that might be the case as well. She stopped in front of him, making him jump a little and take out his headphones. "Hi..."
"Hey," He stated, looking down at his hands. "Um... how is everything..."
"G-Good," She mumbled, feeling her face heat up as he looked up at her. "How are you?"
"I'm... good..." He muttered, though he didn't seem ok. In fact, he seemed surprised. Marinette rose an eyebrow. "I... I got through to the next stage for the music contest..."
"Oh my gosh! That's great!" She gasped, going to hug him but she stopped and rubbed her neck, making him frown. "Sorry,"
"It's fine," He replied, making her smile. "But are you ok?"
"Um... actually, I wanted to talk to you about... the party and what you said..."
"Oh god," He muttered, making her frown as he looked down in embarrassment. "Marinette, I am so sorry... I don't know what came over me with that. I know you don't like me in that way at all. I mean if you did, you probably would said already and you're out of my league anyway. I mean why on earth would a beautiful symphony like you want to be with a sour note like myself? You deserve better then me..."
Marinette frowned as he looked down before a wave of clarity came over her. Luka didn't think she meant it but not because he didn't love her. He did but because he thought he wasn't good enough for her.
"Luka," She stated, making him look at him. "You're an idiot,"
"That's mean, Melody," He stated, making her giggle "Why am I an idiot?"
"Because I like you," She stated, making him blink at her in surprise. "I meant what I said during the party. You're amazing, funny, brave and creative. You mean everything to me and I'm so sorry it took me a while to realize it. I was so blinded by my crush on Adrien that I didn't even consider that someone else could be the one I want to be with but with you... there isn't any of that. Everything is so easy and simple with you. I don't feel like I have to be something I'm not. When I'm with you, I'm happy. Luka, I know I'm not perfect. I'm clumsy, stupid and I'm sure there's tons of girls that are way better then me but... I like you, Luka as more then a friend. I really like you and I..."
She took a deep breathe.
"I want to be your girlfriend," Luka's mind went completely blank as her words sank in. Marinette... liked him. Like actually liked him in the same way he liked her and she wanted to be his girlfriend. Marinette, the most beautiful girl in the world, wanted to be his girlfriend. He must be dreaming. There's no way this could be real but when he looked up at her, she was still there and he hadn't answered yet. He needed to say something before she thought he didn't like her. He opened his mouth as she looked down. taking his silence for rejection but before she could get up and leave, Luka gently took her hand, making her look at him. The way he was looking at her made her cheeks heat up.
"I don't think you're clumsy or stupid. I actually think you're brilliant, beautiful and gifted," He stated, making her cheek heat up even more. "And there might be tons of other girls but they don't hold a candle to you. Marinette, I meant what I said when I said you were the song in my head. I still mean it and I always will. I... I love you..."
"Luka..." She gasped, blushing. "I-Is that a yes to been my boyfriend then?"
"Yes, it is," He smiled before blushing as well. "I-If you'll have me that is. I mean I'm not perfect and I'm certain gonna mess up but I love you and if you'll have me, I want to be your boyfriend..."
"Yes, absolutely!" She gasped, making him blush. "Sorry, too much?"
"N-No... I like your enthusiasm," He replied, causing her to squeak and throw her arms around him in a hug, making him chuckle and hug back as the bell rang. "We should go to class,"
"Ok but meet me at lunch! I want to spend it with my boyfriend and hear about the contest! Ah, I can't believe I can say that!!" She grinned, making Luka smile back. Her song was louder then it had ever been. The second bell rang and she jumped. "Right! Gotta go!! See you at lunch!!"
She blew a kiss at him before running off to her class, making him smile dreamily before he headed to his own lesson. He couldn't wait for lunch.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Miss Bustier’s Class:
Marinette- Princess Charming/Ladybug
Nino- Belle/Carapace
Alya- The Beast/Rena
Nathaniel- Little Red Riding Hood/Red
Rose- Sleeping Beauty/Pigella
Juleka- Snow White/Tigress
Ivan- The BFG
Mylene- Little Princess
Max- Geppetto/Pegasus
Marvok- Pinocchio
Kim- The Little Mermaid/Monkey
Alix- The White Rabbit/Bunny
Sabrina- Rapunzel
Chloe- The Ugly Ducking/Swan Princess/Bee
Lila- The Evil Queen/Hag
Miss Bustier- Mrs Darling
Mrs Mendeleiev's Class
Felix- Rumpstileskin/Chat
Luka- Cinderella/Viper
Kagami- Puss in Boots/Dragon
Marc- Atreu (Neverending story)/Horns
Aurora- Alice Liddle
Mireille- Blue Fairy
Jean- Aladdin
Ondine- Thumbelina
Mrs Mendeleiev- Unaffected
Other Characters:
Audrey Bourgeois- Queen of Hearts
Andre Bourgeois- The Cowardly Lion
Nathalie- The Pig-faced Princess
Gabriel Agreste- The Frog King
Anarka- Captain Hook (didn’t attend the party)
Jagged- Tick-Tock (didn’t attend the party)
Clara Nightingale- Clara from Nutcracker
Penny Rolling- Fairy Godmother (didn’t attend the party)
Jean (Butler)- Knave of Hearts
Mr Damocles- the Piped Piper
Nadja Chamack- The Woman who cried Wolf
Gorilla- The Hunchback of Notre-Dame
Officer Roger- The Huntsman (didn’t attend the party)
Master Fu- Wizard Of Oz (didn’t attend the party)
Master Mila- Snow Queen (didn’t attend the party)
Tomoe- Mother Gothel (didn’t attend the party)
Emile- The White Queen (didn’t attend the party)
--------------------------------------------------------------
Next Chapter: Coming Soon
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“do you even lift bro?” ver iii - leech twins, jamil, epel, rook and lilia
Your headcanons for the fem reader bridal carrying the guys were GOLD! Can I request the same for Lilia, Jade, Floyd, Jamil, Divus, Epel and Rook? Thank you!
-- from @shenanigansposts
A/N: It’s here! It’s back! It’s “do you even lift bro?”! Honestly, I’m still stunned at the response this series gets xD anyways. I’m sorry I’ve gotten slower on updates, but I don’t want to write with any negativity in my heart. I want to enjoy writing, because otherwise I know my pieces will show that. Creative works truly reflect the mood of the writer, so I try to always be in my happy place when I write so that these can be fun! ^^
Please do enjoy!
other versions: ver i (dorm leaders), ver ii (dire, divus, ashton), ver iii (this)
--
Jade’s head jerked up as you rushed into the infirmary.
“Jade! Are you okay?” you scrambled over to him in worry.
“Hello flower.” he greeted, quite cheerful, despite the fact that his ankle was in a cast. “I’m quite well really.”
You shot a look at his ankle--before you turned to the school nurse. The school nurse gave you a patient smile as they explained what happened.
“He didn’t break anything. He just twisted it from climbing that mountain today...” The nurse eyed your lover. “in search of mushrooms.”
“I was very successful.” Jade nodded sagely. “Mostro Lounge’s menu will be full with them. Flower, I insist you try them.” You tried to give him a stern look, but his genuine appreciation for mushrooms (of all things! mushrooms!) caused your lips twitch up into a smile.
“So does this mean he doesn’t need to stay in the infirmary?”
“He doesn’t.” the nurse confirmed. “Unfortunately we currently don’t have any crutches, and Mr. Leech is adamant about not flying--if you could call his brother perhaps? Or Mr. Ashengrotto.” the nurse suggested.
“It’s fine, I can handle it.” you waved a dismissive hand. The nurse arched a brow, and Jade shot you a curious glance--mind finally off mushrooms.
“Just... make sure he doesn’t put any pressure on his foot.” The nurse said, “we’ll be sending crutches over to his dorm by tonight... or tomorrow afternoon at the latest. I can write you a slip that will allow you to skip some of your morning classes.”
The nurse quickly filled up a form, and you stopped in front of Jade. Your boyfriend eyed you in interest.
“How are you planning on helping me, flower? Floyd or Azul...”
“It’s fine.” you said dismissively again. “I’ll show you in a bit.” The nurse handed you the note, and you easily leaned forward, and slipped it into Jade’s pocket. (”Don’t lose that!” “Yes, madam~” he had chuckled, and you flushed.) You huffed, and before he could even blink--you easily pulled him up into your arms bridal style. Jade’s eyes widened, and the nurse shrieked in surprise.
“Wait! Put him down!” the nurse squeaked.
“Oh it’s fine. Jade’s actually pretty light.” you shrugged, and with a glance the nurse did notice that you showed no signs of strain.
“If you’re sure.” the nurse said, flustered.
“Yup. Thank you so much!” you shot the nurse a smile. The nurse went to open the door for you as you left the infirmary with a baffled Jade in your arms.
You turned your head, to see an uncharacteristically surprised expression on Jade’s face. His eyes were wide, and his mouth was slightly agape.
“I didn’t break you, right?” you asked, and he finally blinked.
“Aa. I just... did not expect you to be this strong, flower.” Jade finally said, his lips curled into a pleasant grin. “I had a general idea since you were always so willing to do the heavy lifting... Have you always been this strong?”
“Yeah.” you shrugged. “People often told me it was unattractive for a girl though. Said something about how it wasn’t cute.” you huffed. “I worried about it before but... I’m learning to accept it about myself.”
Jade tilted his head, and he raised a hand to cup your cheek gently. His hand moved, and curled under your chin to make your eyes meet his own.
“I think it’s very attractive.” you flushed, and Jade chuckled lowly. “Everyday I’ve been finding new things to love about you. This one is most definitely today’s ‘new thing’~” You could feel your face heat up even further.
“I--you’re unfair as ever Jade.” you sighed, and he shot you a pleased grin.
“I’ll make it up with some mushroom risotto.”
“You’ll have to tell me how to make it. I can’t make you cook in this state.”
“I injured my ankle, not my hands.” Jade raised a fine brow.
“Yeah but... Let me pamper you.” your voice grew quiet. “Let me do it this time.” Jade laughed gently.
“Very well, milady.”
-
“WAHAHAHAH! JADE! PFFFT!”
“What happened Jade--wait, Floyd! Don’t jump--”
CRASH.
--
“[Surname]!” you flinched, and turned around. You blinked in surprise as you see Professor Crewel stride up to you whilst he gritted his teeth.
“What did you do?” Ace whispered. You furrowed your brow and shrugged your shoulders. Nothing came to mind.
“Puppy, you get along with Mr. Floyd Leech, do you not?”
“I mean... Yeah?” you tilted your head, unsure where this was going.
“Good.” he exhaled. “Get him out of my classroom.”
“Huh?”
-
“Floyd... please...”
“Don’t wanna.” His voice was muffled because he had buried his face into his arms. He was seated in the center of the room, curled up. Crewel had pointed at him accusingly, then pointedly at you, before he turned away with a huff.
“Get him out of there before the next class, little puppy... or else...” he had twirled his baton in hand, and uninterested in experiencing whatever Crewel had in mind, you had chosen to speak to Floyd.
“Come on Floyd, please? Let’s go back to your dorm. You could just... sul--rest on your bed instead.” you tried to be gentle as you pulled on the much taller boy’s sleeve.
“You’ll hafta carry me out.” he said--stubborn as ever when he was in one of his moods. Since he couldn’t see your face, you exaggerated your eye roll.
“Fine.”
Floyd twitched in interest, and shifted his head just a fraction to see you draw close. With surprising strength, you yanked him upright, then swooped him up into your arms--bridal style.
It look a second for what was going on to register in Floyd’s mind, but when it did, he began to flop in your arms. It felt a lot like holding an incredibly huge, and slippery... well... eel? You snickered at your own thought as you tightened your hold on Floyd’s body.
“SHRIMPY!” he wrapped his arms around your neck in excitement, “Shrimpy! You’re carrying me! Look! You’re carrying me!”
“Floyd... I know... I am carrying you.” you said, amused, “don’t move too much because if you accidentally hit me, I’m going to drop you.” At that he calmed down. However, he did not stop his cheerful hum, as he swung his legs in the air.
You couldn’t help but think how adorable Floyd was in your arms.
And you were also very pleased that you had easily cheered him up with carrying him like this.
(You couldn’t say the same for most of the Night Raven College students though.
Floyd, as himself was dangerous enough.
Floyd, when defending you? He was even worse.
Now they find out that the person everyone assumed was Floyd’s weakness was actually insanely strong enough to bridal carry a 191 centimetre tall menace?
‘Monsters, both of them.’ was the terrified thought of every single NRC student who pressed themselves up against the walls at the sight of you strutting about with Floyd in your arms, barely winded.)
“Shrimpy...” he looked at you with glowing eyes--and your heart felt at ease as you see that Floyd was no longer feeling upset. “How are you carrying me?”
“I’ve always been strong.” you shrugged.
“You never told me though.” Floyd looked like he wilted at the thought and you couldn’t help but rush to assure him.
“It’s sort of like... when you had to explain magic to me. It’s difficult to explain something you’ve always known you had.” Floyd tilted his head at your response, eyes glimmered briefly in understanding. Floyd had always been smarter than people gave him credit for.
“So, how much more do you think you can carry?”
“Well I don’t know about that but I can...” you told him how much you were able to lug around back in your world, and a mischievous glow entered Floyd’s eyes.
“I’m not entertaining it.”
“Awww, but shrimpy! It will be worth it!” he pouted, and heart struck by how adorable he looked, you sighed.
“Alright, I’ll hear you out.”
“Hey, do you think you could carry Jade and I on either of your shoulders?” You paused, and looked at him in a contemplative manner.
-
“What in Atlantis, are you doing?” Azul’s shriek pierced the air.
“Oh... oh my.”
“Wahaha! Shrimpy quick! Pick up Azul too!”
--
Just as you were about to call out to Jamil, you noticed that his movements weren’t as smooth as it usually was--nor did they have Jamil’s typical grace. You frowned at that.
Jamil had the habit of overworking himself.
You were worried that he had done so--again.
-
Jamil raised a hand to his head, and sighed. His head pounded--a reminder that he hadn’t gotten enough sleep last night.
He was lucky that he had enough control of himself that none of the teachers noticed the way his attention slipped.
No one ever noticed.
Jamil had done his job well--he was ‘normal’ enough in the eyes of his professors and peers that his slightest missteps, and delayed answers were just a part of his ‘regular’ behavior.
‘I’ll have to convince Kalim to sleep earlier tonight if I want to perform at my one-hundred percent best tomorrow.’ he raised a hand to his temple, and massaged it. His eyes fluttered close as he pressed his knuckles against his forehead--alleviating the irritating feeling even for a little while.
“--are you okay?”
His eyes snapped open at the sound of your voice, and he instinctively gave you a small smile.
“Ah, [Name].” he nodded his head, “just a slight headache really.”
“It doesn’t look like a slight headache.” you peered at him thoughtfully. He gazed back at you, confused--did you--?
“Alright, I’m taking you to the infirmary.” you suddenly decided, and Jamil’s eyebrows raised in response.
“You--I’m fine, [Name].” he let out a soft chuckle. “There’s no need to worry.”
“You aren’t walking like you normally do.” he froze at your observation. “And you keep touching your head too.” you bit your lip, and the worry on your expression made Jamil’s heart skip a beat. “I’m worried Jamil.”
You--you noticed.
You--you paid attention... to him.
“You... noticed?” In his surprise, those words slipped out of Jamil’s mouth. You looked at him, and frowned.
“Of course I did--I.. I’m always looking out for you. Now let me take you to the infirmary.” You said firmly. Jamil stared at you--a little dazed, he’s not sure if it’s because he was genuinely not feeling well--or if he was stunned that you had chosen to look out for how he felt.
His feelings had always been second, if not disregarded so--
To know that you were concerned about how he felt...
It felt...
It felt... good.
When you pulled him into a bridal carry, it pulled him out of his stupor, and he flinched in your arms.
“What the... why are... how are you carrying me?” Jamil--speechless--now wasn’t that a sight to see? He always seemed so prepared, calm, and ready for anything Kalim threw his way. Yet for once, you’ve surprised him--so much so that he showed you such an unguarded expression. Eyes wide, and mouth hung open. You couldn’t help but giggle at it.
“I’m carrying you because if I don’t physically take you to the infirmary, you won’t go.” you paused, “and I can carry you because I’m just that strong.”
“That is...” his dazed expression sharpened, “please put me down. I can take care of myself.”
“No way Jamil, you’re terrible at caring for yourself.” you huffed in response, “so as your girlfriend, it’s my job to carry for you.” He twitched, one of his hands instinctively grabbed for his hood--you could see the slightest red on his cheeks, and that’s enough for you to grin goofily.
“You always take care of us, Jamil.” you added, “let me take care of you for once.” His flush darkened, and he did his best to hide his face--but unfortunately for him--well, he was in your arms.
You had a perfect view of his true feelings.
“Sorcerer...” he cursed softly in embarrassment.
You had a way with pushing past his defenses with that adorable expression of yours.
“Fine.” he said, grudgingly. “but Kalim better not see... this.”
“I’ll do my best.” you said, as solemn as possible, despite the wide grin that grew on your face. Jamil pulled up his hood and turned away from your face (as much as possible while in your arms). You tightened your hold on him briefly.
You hoped he understood what you wanted to say--
That you cared about how he felt--and that you always would.
-
There’s a dramatic gasp from somewhere behind you, and Jamil twitched.
“OH NO! JAMIL! WHAT HAPPENED!”
Jamil sighed, and sagged in your arms.
“I’m unconscious.”
“Sure, love.”
--
“Alright, since you all have a pretty good grasp on how to fly, you’re free to do what you want.” Professor Vargas grinned at the elated cheers of his students. “Just don’t get too close to the school or else Professor Trein will have my hide...”
Epel peered at you.
“You can ride with me if you want.” he offered, but you shook your head.
“We haven’t tackled double riding yet.” you said, and you nervously looked down. “and I prefer my feet on the ground until then.”
Because you didn’t have magic, and you refused to trust Grim with a broom--you managed to convince Crowley to write Vargas that you weren’t allowed to participate in Flying classes.
That didn’t stop Grim from attempting chaos with Ace and Deuce though.
“If you’re sure.” Epel frowned, “It’s very fun [Name].”
“Yup, I’m sure. Maybe next time? I’ll cheer you on though.”
That’s how Epel found himself high up in the sky. When he looked down, you immediately noticed and waved up at him enthusiastically. He gave a brief wave back, before he began to play around in the sky. He did quick, full loops that made him laugh in exhilaration. He played around, and tested to see if he could do some tricks from some videos he saw on the MagiCam...
On your end, you couldn’t help but just smile fondly at the way Epel laughed and enjoyed himself in the sky. You felt a little envious--who wouldn’t? While it was sad that you were the only one in the whole school who couldn’t do magic--it was another thing all together when you see Epel smile.
His smile made all of your negative feelings melt away.
You could content yourself with watching him enjoy himself in the sky.
‘If I told him he was cute, he would get furious with me.’ you sighed, but you smile anyways, ‘it’s still one of the things I adore about him.’ Your eyes wandered away from Epel as you saw a bunch of your other roughhousing with each other.
‘Geez...’ You turned your head to Professor Vargas who wasn’t paying attention to the sky. “Professor Vargas.”
“Hm?” he looked up, only to pale immediately. “Student falling!” You turned your head, and you expected to see the students messing with each other but--
It’s Epel!
You bolted upright.
One second, Epel was doing tricks in the air--and in the next--he was promptly pushed off his broom. In his surprise, he didn’t even try to grasp at his broom.
‘Ah, shit.’
Epel swore internally.
“Epel!” He twisted his head in your direction and realized you were running toward him frantically. He panicked as you readied yourself to catch him.
“Wait [Name]--”
With a hard thud--he fell right into your arms--and you only had to adjust your stance to ensure you wouldn’t fall to the ground as his weight settled in your arms. His eyes snapped open (when had he even closed them?) as he felt your arms wrap around his back and legs.
“Gotcha.” you sighed in relief, while Epel stared at you--stunned.
“[Name]...” he looked at you with wide eyes, and an open mouth. You’re sure if Vil was here, he would get ticked off that Epel was using his face for such a terrible expression. “you--how’d you--”
“Never mind that.” you exhaled. You fell to your knees as the adrenaline rush left you. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah.” Epel said, baffled. “I... since when were you so strong?”
“I always was. I just... never really... thought to say anything?” you shrugged.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” you looked at him, a little nervous. You knew how much Epel wanted to be taken seriously, and it was partly the reason why you didn’t want to tell him that you were insanely strong.
“Well... I... that is... I was worried what you would think.” Epel studied your expression, before a warm smile spread on his lips.
“You know what I think?”
“What?”
“We could train together!” when you looked up, you noticed that Epel had a particularly fired up expression on his face.
“You’re not mad...?”
“No?” Epel tilted his head, “I’m happy! This means you could give me tips on how to be stronger! We can be strong together!” Epel smiled widely. You’re struck by how beautiful this boy was (thought let him never know you though that).
“I... yes!”
Epel gave you a sweet smile in response.
You felt your heart warm at the tenderness in his expression--a sight he rarely showed anyone... anyone except you, of course.
“Together alright?”
“Together!”
--
"Mon amour, quick~ Catch me~”
You immediately dropped the book, and prepared yourself.
In the next second--Rook landed in your arms. He turned to you with a pleased glow.
“So you are strong enough to carry me~” he wrapped his arms around your shoulders. “Fascinating~”
“Yeah... I guess so.” you looked at him, perplexed.
“So why the sudden jump into my arms?”
“I just felt like it.” Rook hummed, as he tucked some of your hair behind your ear.
“Oh well... can I let you go?” you asked, your eyes fell on the book that had toppled to the ground at Rook’s sudden attack.
“Hm... no.” Rook’s lips curled up.
“Fair enough.” you sighed. “If I bend down, do you think you could pick up the book and put it back up on the self then?”
“Oh? You think you could do that?” there’s an interested but knowing gleam in Rook’s eyes. Likely chance, he already knew that much about you--and was just waiting to see if his assumptions were correct.
“I can try.” you offered, as you began to bend slightly for him to grab the book.
Most people found talking to Rook unnerving--primarily because there was always that certain... analytical look in his eyes. It would always feel as if he was studying you--trying to understand... all of you, really.
“Come to think of it...” Rook turned to look at you, patient. “How’d you figure out that I could do this?” You moved your arms slightly.
Rook only smiled in response.
You stared back--halfway between amused and confused.
“...”
“...”
“...?”
“....~”
“Yeah okay fine.” you sighed, and his smug aura somehow intensified...? “I guess I don’t want to know.”
There were a lot of things you still didn’t know about Rook.
Despite his... ah... love for learning(?) about other people--he was tight lipped about himself. Even to you.
“I’m glad we came to an agreement.” he patted your shoulder. When he moved to get out of your arms, your grip tightened and his eyes slid open to look at you.
Even if he was private about himself though...
You made it your personal mission to understand him--to learn more about him.
“Ohohoh~ Mon amour~ What are you doing~?”
“I think I’ll hold onto my boyfriend a little longer, you know~?” Your lips curled. “It’s time for me to learn about you.”
“You can try.” Rook smirked back.
That’s what he liked about you after all.
You didn’t think he was strange. You thought of his actions as a challenge to learn about him--just as he learnt about you.
--
“Hello [Name]~”
You looked up to see that Lilia hung, suspended upside down in midair again. His headphones were on, he had his controllers in hand--and he seemed to be playing a first person magic shooter game. He floated lower, just so you could reach him--and give him a greeting kiss on the cheek. You turned to the monitor curiously as Lilia finished beating up another player.
“How are you playing that upside down?”
“I call it upping the difficulty level~” Lilia laughed, as his thumbs moved across the controller in rapid speed.
“Aren’t you worried you’ll fall?”
“Nonsense.” Lilia shook his head, his short hair fell around his face. “I’ll handle it.”
“Right. I’ll be back with food then.”
“Please get me tomato juice!” he called out as he focused back on the screen. He floated low, as he planned to sit himself down onto the couch upon your return.
“Who was that?” a voice on the call asked.
“Wouldn’t you like to know.” Lilia said, and the voice that had ask--Idia that is--huffed in response.
“Could it be... your mom?” Lilia chuckled at that, but not for the reasons that his teammates believed.
“Could be a sister.” another one suggested.
“Or maybe... a girlfriend?”
“WHAT!”
At the suddenness of the shout, Lilia flinched in surprise and dropped down onto the ground. He had pretty sensitive ears--and since Idia (not that knew LilV and Lilia Vanrouge were one and the same--) had the bright idea to shout into the mic--it definitely messed with Lilia’s concentration.
However, instead of falling down to the ground--Lilia found himself caught... in your arms. You looked at him with a ‘I told you so’ expression, only to be caught up by his expression.
He gazed at you with surprise written all over his expression--from the way his brows were raised, to the glitter in his eyes and his slack jaw. It was certainly one you’ve never seen before--because there was little that could surprise Lilia these days. When he blinked away his stupor, he noticed the curiosity on your expression. ‘Why did you fall?’ your expression asked.
He pointed out at Idia’s name on the screen. Your brows rose.
“Idia yelled into the mic.” Lilia explained with a light chuckle after he made sure his mic was muted. He bore no ill will to the Ignihyde Dorm Leader. In fact, Lilia found him absolutely hilarious.
“They can’t seem to believe I have a lover~” Lilia giggled, and you shook your head--amused.
“--THAT’S TOTALLY UNFAIR.” Idia whined, and their other teammates either agreed or laughed along. “If there’s a god out there... please nuke LilV. He’s gotten too lucky--”
“Does... does he still not know?” you wondered, and Lilia stuck his tongue out mischievously.
“Well... he doesn’t go out much and I don’t really talk to him in school...”
“Fair.” you conceded, with an amused smile, as Idia cried about needing to plead with the Evening Star harder.
“On the subject of not knowing,” Lilia raised a brow. “I know I’m not exactly light and yet...” He crossed his arms as he stared up at you curiously.
“Oh... well, I’ve always been strong?” you said, unsure of where this was going.
“Intriguing!” Lilia hummed as he happily snuggled into your arms. “In that case, I should try falling into your arms more often!~”
“Please don’t.”
“I won’t hurt myself.”
“But that doesn’t mean I’ll automatically stop worrying, Lilia.”
Lilia peered up at you with curious eyes. You gazed back, and he realized that you were every bit serious about what you said.
“Sometimes I find it interesting how humans seem so much more mature than most faeries at my age.” Lilia mused.
“Well, we are forced to mature faster.” You pointed out.
Lilia hummed in a contemplative manner.
“In that case, would you carry me like this whenever I want?”
“Sure,” you shrugged. “It won’t really bother me.”
“Excellent, shall we remain like this for the night, then?”
“I thought you’d never ask.”
The two of you shared a happy smile, as you settled in for the night.
--
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