Alright so here is a link to most of my stories on Ao3. Most are these on here as well. I hope this helps anyone who wants to read my work :D Also if anyone is interesting in supporting a fellow artist then please feel free to buy me a kofi: https://ko-fi.com/ashaddison
Anyway, I hope you guys are having a great day :D
Anatis AU:
Rise of Anatis (Main Story): https://archiveofourown.org/works/22262869/chapters/53162869
Rise of Anatis Artwork: https://archiveofourown.org/works/23320924/chapters/55862074
Rise of Anatis Specials: https://archiveofourown.org/works/24157003/chapters/58171006
Rise of Anatis Snippets: https://archiveofourown.org/works/28194963/chapters/69089085
Liúmáng (Anatis’ Contingency Plan by Naruwitch and myself): https://archiveofourown.org/works/28794270/chapters/70614123
Rise of Anatis (first chapter): https://ultra-sassyduck.tumblr.com/post/190271918570/miraculous-rise-of-anatis (for anyone who wants to read it on here. each chapter is linked to the next)
Other Lukanette/Miraculous Works:
Writing Prompts and One Shot Collections: https://archiveofourown.org/works/25293634/chapters/61325518
The Cursed Snake’s Revenge (hell girl/Miraculous crossover): https://archiveofourown.org/works/24123397
I can’t Help Falling In Love with You: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21611047
30 Days of Lukanette: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20747978/chapters/49297205
My Dearest Friend: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20608313/chapters/48931781 (unfinished)
Even in Silence, I still Love You: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20586584
So here we have butterfly!Luka aka Fae and his champion Marinette aka Patchwork.
They're for a little short story I'm writing where Luka has the butterfly miraculous and just uses it to help out in every day scenarios such as helping someone rescue a cat stuck in a tree.
With Marinette, he gives her the power to repair things that are broken after her sketchbook is destroyed by Lila and Chloe. There will be other champions mentioned or shown so I may draw up their designs at some point. I also really wanted him to resemble a fairy prince. Also I really love how Marinette's champion design came out
So I've being thinking a lot about BugNoire's design and i gotta admit it's pretty cool so I decided to draw up a design for the Anatisverse. Will Luka ever use this merge? I won't say it's completely impossible but I'm not intending to go in that direction. Have I created a design for it regardless? Yes, yes I have
My friends, I present to you....
Chat Fortune
So my readers will hopefully remember that when Luka uses the black cat miraculous, he goes by the alias of Chat Malice and i really love the cropped jacket he has in the design so I made sure to add it here. Obviously, Bugnoire is the inspiration and there are things I like such as her eyes and the black and green yoyo so I kept them. Though I made the irises of Chat Fortune's eyes more cat like. Oh and of course he has the pointed ears again. I can promise you that most of the transformations he uses will have that feature because I like it and it's cute
And here is Culepo's underwater power up. Im really happy with how this turned out and how pretty she looks xD and also look how cute trixx is! My irl friend actually came up with the name Mer-Trixx for them when I showed them xD
I incorporated some design features I like from Purple Tigeress' design such as her hair while trying to keep it true to my original design of Culepo.
For a little more information on upcoming designs, keep reading but beware, there be spoilers ahead
I'll probably do a redesign of this too as this is before she has her run as Adelia, which gives her some much needed confidence that is reflected in her suits. Also Lady Noir and Anatis will be getting some new permanent suits soon. Obviously, Truth was a trying time for both of them but it also allowed them to grow. Luka's growth is pretty clear but Marinettes may not be as clear. However, she had to take a more leader role in the fight against Truth and she'll have to do that again in the upcoming chapter. These new suits will be a step closer to their full power/adult suits (which i intend to redraw as my drawing has improved a lot since I did them). Anyway I'll want to reflect that growth in their suits. I've already made it a thing in my works that their suits change when they have significant growth as people as we've seen it with Ryuko and Aspik already. This does mean that everyone will eventually get upgraded suits. And if you're wondering why Felix didn't get an upgraded suit after discovering the whole magic thing, it's because it's not affected his growth as a character... yet...
Miraculous: Rise of Anatis Chapter 80 Part Two (3/3)
And thus we have concluded the Truth arc! And damn this is go better then I expected. I'm very happy with how this turned out and still amazed that I had to split it into two chapters. Hopefully, this met everyone's expectations but also this marks the end of the depression arc as well. We've gotten through 'it had to get worst' and now onto the 'it gets better'. Don't worry though. I won't be pretending Luka didn't suffer or anything. He will still be dealing with his mental health but now he knows he's not alone and has the tools to help cope with it, no longer letting Simme have power over him. Oh this is also the conclusion to 'Season 4' so now I have the joy of adapting the rest of the canon season 4 and season 5. Yay me. Anyway, hope you all enjoy this!
"And he was so mean to me, even though I tried to apologise," Lila sniffed as her father gently patted her arm. She was telling him about her day in school since he had a rare afternoon off. Her mother however was still at work and would be till about 6pm. Maybe later if she had to do overtime. He frowned as he listened. In her version of events, she had tried to approach Luka to "apologize" and to "make peace" but he had rejected it. Of course, she had convincedly let out the part where she casually threatened him. "And while I was trying to apologize, his friend hit me for no reason. Luckily, she wasn't that strong so there was no real damage but it still hurt and I'm so upset about it. I was just trying to apologize. Why does he hate me so much?"
"My poor, little darling," Her father gasped, lapping up her lies like sugar. "It's ok. Give me this girl's name and I'll add her to the lawsuit,"
"I-It's ok, Papa. You don't have to do that," She sniffed, making him swell with pride. From his viewpoint, it made her look like a kind hearted individual who was willing to forgive but the truth of course was that she didn't want the truth to come out. If she tried to sue Kagami, she would be fully exposed to her parents. It was bad enough that Anatis had exposed her lies already but luckily, she was the apple of her father's eye so he didn't believe it. Maybe he was in denial and knew but didn't want to admit or maybe he genuinely believed her. She didn't know and it didn't matter. The facts were that he was on her side and all ways had being. She was his little princess and he treated her as such. Deep down, she knew it was probably because he felt bad at being away so much and that he wanted to give her the life he didn't have. Unlike her mother, he did not come from money. Speaking of her mother, she was much stricter then her father but she was too busy with her work to really pay attention to either of them. Sure, her parent's romantic relationship had improved a bit since they were Loveater but not by much and her mother was still too busy with work to pay any real attention to Lila but that also kind of worked in her favor. Her mother was too tired when she came home from work to really deal with her and worked six days a week on a good week. She often would do overtime as well so she wasn't really around to raise Lila, let alone discipline her so because her father had decided to stay in France and worked less hours then her mother, he had taken over as her main parent. She couldn't ask for a better outcome since it basically met she could do whatever she wanted. "I just want to move on from all of it,"
"Of course, my darling," He nodded in an understanding manner before a knock on the door got his attention. He got up and opened the door but found no one there. He frowned and turned back round, causing someone to knock again but this time, it came from the back door. Both he and Lila looked confused and concerned. How did the person at the front door get to the back door so quickly? And why were they knocking there? He waved his hand to Lila as if to say stay behind me as he approached the back door. There was a clear silhouette there. "Who's there?"
The figure didn't answer, making him more nervous.
"I said who's there?!" He demanded, making them move their hand and knock on the door again. "What do you want?"
"... I want to know if the apple falls far from the tree.."
"Luka?!" Lila gasped, recognizing his voice but it seemed off and the hair on the back of her neck stood up... though she ignored it. Her father frowned. "W-what are you doing at my house?! Surely, this won't look good in court, Luka,"
The figure that seemed to be Luka tilted his head to the side.
"Luka?" He asked, making her frown. Why was he saying his name like he was questioning her declaration? "Luka is gone,"
"W-what?" She asked, shocked. What did he mean Luka is gone? The figure suddenly lifted his hand and said something odd before the back door flew open on its own. Lila and her father both gasped before "Luka" stepped into the house. Both of them stared in horror at him.
"Only the Truth remains," He stated as it dawned on her that he had been akumatized but surely, Hawkmoth would stop his akuma from attacking her, right? The akumatized Luka stepped forward and with a creepy smile, he spoke a single word. "Run,"
She didn't need to be told twice, shoving her father in Truth's path and bolting for the front door. She ripped it open and stepped right into Lighteye's light, paralyzing her. Truth roughly grabbed her father's arm and dragged him over before he shoved him into Lighteye's spotlight as well. With both of them paralyzed, Truth stepped in front of her father. His third eye glowed, causing her father's eyes to glow the same color for a second before his lips turned white.
"Tell me, Mr Rossi, do you know your daughter is a liar?" He asked as Lila looked around, panicked.
"Yes," Her father answered, surprising her.
"Then why do you let her lie?"
"Because her lies are harmless and ploys for attention,"
"Hmm... you truly believe that?"
"Yes,"
"Then do you know the full extent of her lies?"
"No. I only know what I see, what my wife tells me and what Lila tells me," He answered. The fear in his eyes told Lila that he couldn't stop himself from speaking but it seemed that he had to be asked questions.
"Tell me... does the apple fall far from the tree?"
"No, I lie as well," He answered, not surprising Truth at all. He had suspected that Lila had picked it up from someone but given what he knew about her mother, it wasn't her so it had to be her father.
"Ah so you lie so your daughter lies? Do you think that's ok?"
"Yes. If you don't have it, fake it until you make it," Her father stated before Truth turned to her.
"Well, looks like your father is aware of your lies but maybe doesn't realize the level you're willing to go," He stated before he narrowed his eyes. "Let's change that, shall we?"
His third eye glowed, causing hers to do the same and her lips to turn white as well. Fear welled up in her heart as she realized if he asked a question, she would tell a truthful answer.
"Do you love your parents?" He asked, making her try to resist but she couldn't.
"Not really," She confessed but judging by her father's eye movement, he expected that answer. Lila felt relieved but Truth wasn't done. He turned to her father.
"Do you still love your daughter knowing that she doesn't really love you?"
"Of course, I do," He answered.
"Oh? Is your love unconditional?" Truth asked, making Lila feel sick. She didn't like where this was going but he had to ask her questions to make her answer.
"Yes, it is," Her father confirmed. For a second, she thought Truth's plan would be ruined but he smirked like he wanted that answer.
"Let's put that to the test then," He answered, holding out his hand towards her. A strange light orb appeared in it as the third eye glowed silver instead of green. "Dlot reve evah uoy seil eht lla llet,"
A silvery light glowed around Lila and before she could stop herself, she began to confess every single thing she had ever lied about. Truth smirked and turned to her father.
"Netsil dna yats," He spoke again, causing her father to glow before he just stood there. "Let's see how long that 'unconditional' love lasts now that Lila is finally speak the full truth,"
He turned on his heel, leaving the two before jumping off as Lila continued to confess her lies and her father was forced to listen.
~The Louvre Museum~
Tikki flew as fast as she could towards the Egyptian area, where she hoped Alix was. She should be there as that's where Anatis had told her to go in his letter. She would have to go back in time and get the past Anatis, potentially with the help of her future self as neither Tikki nor Anatis knew how she got her miraculous in this situation. He had left the time, date and location she collected him in the letter and had explained that he was unable to be at the actual battle in real time as he would be 'captured' by Truth. There was also the fact that Vernn would be there. She flew over to the mummies and let out a sigh of relief as she saw Alix there with Vernn, the kwamis without a holder and to her surprise, Fluff. Alix seem to already have her miraculous, which made things easier.
"Alix!" Tikki called, getting her attention and flying over. Alix caught her. "It's happening,"
"A-Anatis is..." She gasped before noticing the earrings in Tikki's hand. She took a deep breath, relived that Tikki had grabbed the earrings before Truth could get them, and nodded. "R-Right. I read the letter and Sir Rene gave me my miraculous this morning. Vernn, you better go and find your holder,"
"Of course, young one! I shall find and tell the other kwamis too," He declared, turning to Tikki. "Don't worry. We've planned for this,"
She nodded and he flew off as Alix turned to Fluff, who gave her a nod. She held out her pocket watch.
"Fluff, Clockwise!" She declared, sucking Fluff into the watch and turning into the young Bunnyx. She pulled out her umbrella and spun it. "Burrow!"
A glowing portal opened up, causing Alix to turn to Tikki and the other kwamis.
"Ok, everyone in the portal!" She declared, following Anatis' instructions. In his letter, he had told her to bring Tikki and the kwamis into a burrow as Truth wouldn't be able to access them without the rabbit miraculous and if he somehow was about to, they had multiple burrows to fly into plus Bunnyx of all ages were there and so was Sir Rene. The burrow would be the safest place for them. The kwamis didn't even hesitate, flying straight into the portal before Bunnyx followed with it closing behind her....
Meanwhile, Vernn flew as fast as he could to every location where a kwami was. While none of them had approached their holders yet, they had placed their miraculous in their holder's room in safe places so they were ready to go when giving the signal before hiding in plain sight and in small groups to make it easier for Vernn. Once given the word, they would go straight to their holders and tell them where the miraculous were. He flew to Wayzz first, making the little turtle nod.
"I will inform Pollen, Trixx, Xuppu and Roarr," Wayzz declared, causing Vernn to nod and fly off. He found Sass next and passed on the message, causing Sass to go to Longg, Orriko, Stompp and Kaalki before he flew to the flowers near Felix Sr's house where Bennu, Penni and Wenn were waiting. As soon as they saw him, Bennu flew up.
"It's happening, isn't it?" He asked, making Vernn nod. "Alright. Penni, Wenn. Go and find your holders,"
"Yes, sir!!" Penni declared as Wenn nodded before the two flew off.
"You should go find your holder, Vernn," Bennu declared, making Vernn nod.
"A good suggestion, friend," He declared before turning to fly away. However, he stopped. "You'll inform Mr Culpa yes?"
"Of course," Bennu nodded, making Vernn let out a sigh of relief before he flew off. Bennu flew into the house and straight to Felix Sr's office. The acting mage looked stressed and Valla was trying to help him. Anatis' letter was on his table.
"I know you're worried but this young man seems very smart," Valla reassured before she gasped as she sensed Bennu. He flew over, making Felix Sr look at him. "Bennu?"
"It's happening," He declared, making Felix Sr stand up.
"And the creation kwami?" He asked, clearly concerned.
"Tikki is safe. She will have gone to Fluff's holder and enacted that part of the plan," He answered, making Felix Sr raise an eyebrow. "Oh he didn't mention in his letter... that part of the plan is for Tikki to alert Fluff and her holder so they can go back in time and bring a past Anatis to the fight,"
"And how can you be sure the akumatized won't try and take Tikki and her miraculous?" Felix Sr asked, making Valla nod.
"It is a known fact that akumas will go after the miraculous for Hawkmoth," She replied, making Bennu nod in reply. It was true after all but this akuma was Luka and he was not a normal person.
"The young master planned for that as well," He answered, making Felix Sr raise an eyebrow. "It's quite genius really. Tikki would go and inform Fluff and her holder and then, along with the kwamis who don't have holders, she would hide inside the burrow. Even with how gifted the akuma is, he would not be able to access it without the rabbit miraculous and if by chance, if he managed to, the kwamis would have multiple burrows to escape through and there would be the different holders of the rabbit miraculous there, including Sir Rene,"
"Sir Rene? The Dragon Knight?" Felix Sr asked. "He used the rabbit miraculous?"
"Yes. Quite frequently in fact. He used it to help create the upgrade potions as well as other reasons," Bennu answered. "The young master trusts Sir Rene and Bunnyx to protect Tikki and the kwamis against Truth,"
"This... does seem like the best outcome," Felix Sr nodded, clearly impressed with the level of planning but he also wasn't surprised. It was Anatis after all. The young hero's power was literally planning so he wasn't surprised by his plan to defeat his own akuma and to protect the vulnerable kwamis. "Given that you're here, you have a holder?"
"Yes, now that I have informed you, I will go to my holder so he can join the battle,"
"I see," Felix Sr nodded before he looked at Bennu. "I will join the battle as well,"
"The young master suspected as much," Bennu confirmed before he flew off. A dark red light burst from the study as he flew up the stairs and into Felix Jr's room. Felix was sitting at his desk, writing something. "Young Master Felix,"
"Bennu?" He asked, looking over as the kwami flew over. "Bennu, what are you doing here?"
"There is a powerful akuma and all the heroes are needed," He declared, flying over to the drawers. "I put my miraculous here a couple of nights ago,"
Felix frowned and opened the drawers, seeing the brooch there. He took it out and fixed it to his shirt.
"Bennu, I have to ask. Why are you the one telling me this? Shouldn't Anatis be here or Lady Noir?" He asked, making Bennu let out a sigh.
"The akuma has compromised Anatis and while Lady Noir knows who the heroes are, she doesn't know the location of the miracle boxes and she hasn't connected her baton to them just yet," Bennu explained. "We have a team trying to help Anatis out as we will need him for the battle but right now, Lady Noir is on her own and this akuma is especially dangerous,"
"We?" Felix asked before shaking his head. He could question it later. Bennu went to answer but he shook his head again. "Ignore my question for now. Lady Noir needs back up so let's do our job,"
"Very good, young master," Bennu nodded, making Felix nod back before he held out his hand.
"Bennu! Rise Again!" He declared, causing Bennu to be sucked into his brooch. He tilted back his head as a golden light created his mask over his eyes, changing their color to red and making his hair a brighter yellow before the gold light spread down his body, turning his outfit into his hero form. He held both of his hands over his chest as black fingerless gloves appeared and then the twin fan set manifested as well. With his transformation done, he rushed to the window and jumped out before jumping across the rooftops. He stopped however when he saw another hero as well. The older hero was wearing a dramatic outfit. He recognized him as the Swan Holder Atratus. Anatis had introduced them to each other when he asked for their help against his evil counterpart Brumus. Atratus stopped and glanced over before he jumped over as well. "I assume your kwami informed you of the situation?"
"Actually, it was your kwami," He confirmed. "Phénix Rouge if memory serves?"
"Yes," He confirmed. "And you're the swan themed hero Atratus, correct?"
"Yes," He nodded. "Let's find Lady Noir before the situation becomes dire,"
"Agreed," Phénix agreed before the two heroes ran off to find her.
~Meanwhile~
Lady Noir frowned as she looked on the Rossi household. Both Lila and her father were stood there and Lila was just talking as her father stared at her with a horrified look. She didn't blame him. The things Lila was saying were horrible but she didn't seem to be able to stop. It seems she is confessing every lie she had ever told. Lady Noir noted that both Lila and her father had white lips. She took out her baton and checked the akuma app. Still nothing. She could report it herself but she didn't want to create panic and alert the akuma. Given that it was Luka, he probably would sense the change in the citizens through their heartsongs. She opened the news app and again there was no reports. She sighed and tried to think. Lila was obviously top of the akuma's list, given how she was and also all the things that was going on with the court case but who would he target next? Gabriel Agreste maybe. She decided it was a good lead so she jumped off and made her way to Agreste Manor yet when she got there, there was no one panicking or anything. She frowned. Luka had said that Anatis suspected Gabriel as a possible ally of Hawkmoth and given that his akuma was able to make Lila confess her lies, he clearly had the power to make people confess their truths so this would be the perfect chance to target Gabriel so why hadn't he? Or was he inside and just being quiet? She went to move but before she could, Aspik jumped out of his window and landed on the gate. He stopped as he saw her.
"Lady Noir? Is everything ok?" He asked, rushing over. "Sass told me an akuma has compromised Anatis..."
Her eyes widened at his comment. Had the akuma done something to Anatis? And if so, how? Was Anatis his target and is that why he wasn't here?
"Lady Noir?"
"We need to find the akuma!" She gasped but Aspik' eyes widened and he suddenly backed away. Given his reaction, she turned round. Standing on a floating eyeball was the akumatized Luka. His blind eyes reminded her of her time as Princess Justice and his blue skin and darker lips made it look like he had drowned to death. She took out her baton. "Where is Anatis, Luka?"
"Luka?" He asked in a strangely monotonal voice. It didn't suit him. Apsik gasped in shock as apparently he had no idea the akuma was Luka. "Luka isn't here, Lady Noir. As for Anatis, he is safe and will be joining us later,"
"And how do I know you're not lying?!" She hissed but apparently that was the wrong thing to say before he narrowed his eyes.
"Are you implying I would lie?" He asked in a cold tone. "I am the Truth, Lady Noir. No lies past my lips,"
"The Truth?" She asked, surprised as she recalled Feng's words. He said there would be a sign that her spell had worked and that if her spell worked, the Truth would come and set Luka free. Was the akuma what he meant?
"But while I will not tell you a lie, I will not tolerate you or your hero friends getting in my way," He stated, snapping her out of it as Aspik held his hand over his bracelet, ready to activate second chance. "Out of respect for you, I will only give you one chance. Surrender your miraculous to me and I'll leave you alone,"
"Well, you're much more polite then the usual akumas but I'm not giving you my miraculous. Hawkmoth-"
"Shadowmoth," He corrected, making her blink.
"Uh... Shadowmoth then... you'll deliver them to him and I can't let that happen,"
"No, I won't," He answered, shocking her. "Shadowmoth has no control over me. I cut off the connection,"
"Then why do you want my miraculous?" She asked, making him hum.
"That is a good question. I'm not sure why I want them. To protect them maybe or it could because I am an akuma," He admitted. "But I think the main reason is to stop you from stopping me,"
"Stopping you from doing what?"
"I have to bring the truth to light. I have already sorted out Lila and now it's Mr Agreste's turn," He answered, making Aspik gasp. "I need to know if he is working for Shadowmoth,"
"You think my- I mean Mr Agreste is working for Shadowmoth?" Aspik gasped, making Lady Noir frown. "He may be an odd man but he doesn't-"
"Mr Agreste willingly lent Lila Rossi his legal team, knowing fully well it would mess up the restraining order and cause me distress," He points out. "Surely, in a city that is threatened by a supervillain who can change people into superpowered villains by using their negative emotions, that is a bad idea no?"
"I mean it is,"
"Then we have to consider why Mr Agreste did this. It doesn't seem to benefit him or his company but if we take into account, he is working for Shadowmoth, who has been targeting me repeatedly recently, a new possibility comes to light. It benefits Shadow Moth," Truth pointed out, making both Lady Noir and Aspik frown. "Now all I want to do is hit him with my power and ask. He won't be able to lie so we can know for sure,"
"But it wouldn't hold up in a legal court," Lady Noir pointed out, making Truth frown. "Under Parisian Law, "confessions" from an akuma's power are a form of coercement and will not hold up in a legal court, even if the targeted confess to criminal activity as it can not be proven if the confession was legit, part of the akuma's power or a false set of events caused by the akuma,"
Truth paused for a moment as if considering Lady Noir's words. She carefully kept hold of her baton, ready to attack. Aspik kept his hand on his bracelet, ready to activate his power but he looked torn. It didn't surprise her. Gabriel is his father and both her and Truth just stated that they suspect him of working for Shadowmoth. She knew that was a can of worms that her and Anatis were gonna have to deal with after they save Luka but she didn't blame Luka either. She knew he wouldn't have brought it up if he was himself but right now, he wasn't. Hopefully Adrien won't hold it against him.
"You have a valid point, Lady Noir," He finally answered. "If I did force a confession from Mr Agreste, it wouldn't hold up in court... but I don't need a court. I can give him a punishment here and now,"
"Wait!" Aspik gasped, making Truth look at him. Lady Noir gave Aspik a look as well. With Truth's attention now on him, he glanced around nervously. "Uh if you go after Gabriel and potentially expose him for working for Shadow moth, if he is, then what about his family?"
"What about them?" Truth said harshly. Aspik had to remind himself that this was an akuma and Luka isn't normally so mean.
"Well, your exposure of him might not hold up in a court of law but it will hold up in the court of the public. The news would get hold of this and they would have a field day,"
"So what if they did? If he truly is guilty then he deserves it,"
"That may be so but does his family deserve it?" Aspik asked, making Truth pause again. "I'm not saying to protect Mr Agreste but if you expose him like this, his family will suffer the consequences,"
"You're saying the public won't just take it out on him if he is actually working for Shadowmoth but his family too?" Truth asked, making Aspik nod. He crossed his arms. "Explain,"
"Uh well you remember when the world found out you were Jagged's son right?" He asked, making Truth nod. "Do you remember how the paparazzi tried to go after your mum and your sister as well?"
"I do," Truth confirmed before he made a face as if thinking. "You believe that if I expose Mr Agreste, his family will also be targeted and potentially in danger..."
"Yes, I know it will happen," Aspik nodded, impressing Lady Noir. "So I'm asking you to leave an investigation into him by Anatis, Lady Noir and our team. Not for Gabriel's sake but for his family,"
Truth glanced at the two heroes before he glanced at the window. Gabriel was stood in it, glaring at him. Natalie was stood next to him but she looked fearful and of course, Adrien wasn't there as he was in front of him as the hero Aspik. Truth turned back to Lady Noir and Aspik.
"Your argument is well thought out, Aspik," He stated, making him let out a breath. "I will leave Gabriel Agreste alone but..."
He turned to the window where Gabriel was stood in.
"Mark my words," He stated. "Karma always collects its debt,"
With that, he moved his hand as if commanding the sentimonster he was standing on, causing it to fly away. Gabriel simply turned from the window as Natalie looked over at the heroes before following him. Lady Noir let out a sigh and turned to Aspik.
"Are you ok?" She asked, making him nod. "Alright, let's go after him,"
"Right," He nodded, jumping after her. "Where do you think he's going to go next?"
"Well, he got Lila already, obviously your father was next on his list... I would imagine the next target would be the one who forced Jagged and Anarka to keep his parentage hidden from him,"
"He's going after Bob Roth?" Aspik asked. "Isn't he in jail?"
"He is but we should check on him just in case," She answered, heading in the direction of the prison. Aspik kept up with her but both of them stopped went their weapons buzzed. She answered it when she saw it was Atratus. "Atratus, we're on our way to the prison as we think that's where-"
"He's not going there," Atratus stated. "He's heading to the Grand Paris Hotel,"
"What? Why is he going there?" She gasped, frowning. Chloe was on their side now and Zoe had been set free plus she had been trying her best to be better now so who would his target be? "Is he going after the mayor?!"
"Potentially," Atratus answered. "I'm not sure though,"
"R-right, we'll head there right now," She answered.
"Very well. Me and Phénix will meet you there," He answered, hanging up. Lady Noir turned to Aspik.
"He's going to the Grand Paris Hotel," She explained, making him nod and text something. "Aspik?"
"Ryuko messaged me, saying she saw a flying eye and is tailing it," He explained, making her frown. Wasn't Truth on the Sentimonster? "I've let her know where he is heading. She'll meet us there,"
"Ok," She nodded. "Let's go,"
~At the Grand Paris Hotel~
Truth landed on the rooftop of the Grand Paris hotel before he walked over to the lift and pressed the button. Lighteye flew over, making him look at it with a surprisingly gentle look.
"Sorry, you're a little too big for the lift," He stated, reaching out and gently petting the sentimonster. It closed itself and seemed to lean into his touch before the lift pinned. He pulled away and walked into the lift, pressing the button before the lift went down. Lighteye flew over the edge and looked in the window as the lift took Truth to the restaurant. As soon as he stepped out, the people in the restaurant stared at him. He was obviously an akuma but since he walked past them and left them alone, they weren't sure how to react. He walked straight over to Jean the butler, who looked at him with shock.
"Where is the mayor and his wife?" He asked, calmly.
"I... I don't know," Jean lied, making Truth frown. Jean looked like he was about to run but before he could, Lighteye trapped him with its beam through the window. Truth smiled and grabbed his face, making him look straight at him. His third eye glowed, causing Jean's eyes to glow the same color before his lips turned white. The people in the restaurant instantly panicked, thinking he was going to attack them next and ran out but he didn't even bother following them.
"I ask again," He stated as Jean stared at him. "Where is the mayor and his wife?"
"They are upstairs in their penthouse," He answered, though his eyes told Truth that he didn't want to.
"And Zoe and Chloe? Are they here?" Truth asked. He wanted to avoid collateral damage if he could.
"Both Miss Zoe and Miss Chloe have gone out," He answered, making Truth nod before he stepped away. Jean let out a sigh of relief as Truth went back to the lift and took it to the Penthouse. He stepped inside and headed straight towards the master bedroom.
"I just think you need to try and be in the girls' life more," Andre stated, making Truth frown. "It's like you've given up on both of them,"
"Well, Chloe used to be good and Zoe was once useful but since that stupid bug got to both of them, they're both determined to be better," Audrey mocked, making Truth frown even more. Chloe and Zoe had both made the choice to change their ways and try to improve themselves. How was that a bad thing? "The Master has demoted me because of it. According to him, any offspring of mine is useless to the cause. I may have to contact Noé,"
"Oh not him," Andre gasped as Truth leaned in and pressed his ear against the door to listen. "He's crazy and I thought you had decided to distance yourself from him,"
"I had but he is still in with the guardian and if I want to reclaim my previous glory, I may need his help," She answered, making Truth frown before he had heard enough. He knocked on the door harshly. "Is that room service? Finally, it's being taking forever,"
"I'll get it, my dear," Andre declared. Truth narrowed his eyes as he heard the footsteps. He could practically imagine Audrey sitting on the sofa, looking at her nails with a bored expression. The door opened. "Just bring the tra- Who are you?!"
"I'm The Truth," He declared, roughly grabbing the mayor by his tie and pulling him inside. Audrey gasped and jumped up, going to run but before she could, Lighteye glanced through the window and trapped her in its beam of light. Her body stopped moving as Truth dragged Andre into the room, pushing him to the ground into Lighteye's beam and closing the door before locking it with his magic. He turned back to them as Lighteye kept them trapped before he turned his attention to Audrey. "Now, I think it's time we had a chat, Style Queen,"
"I won't tell you anything," She declared, making him smirk and walk towards her but before he could do anything, the door was kicked open and Lady Noir, along with Aspik and Ryuko, rushed into the room. "Ah finally! Get this freak away from me, you useless heroes!"
"Shut your mouth," Truth hissed at her, hating that she insulted the heroes. Even as an akuma, he still had a deep respect for them. After all, they were doing their jobs. Admittedly, he couldn't let them do that but he still respected them for doing so. "Lady Noir... didn't I tell you I would only give you one chance?"
"You did but we don't have to fight, Luka," She explained, lowering her baton. "I know that you're trying to make people more honest but the truth should never be forced,"
"Even if it means the salvation of Paris?" He asked, making her frown. "You stopped me from getting the truth from Mr Agreste despite suspecting yourself that he may be working with Hawkmoth and now you intend to stop me from getting the truth about Simme and the Guardians from Mrs Bourgeois. Who's side are you on, Lady Noir?"
"I'm on the side of good and we both know this isn't the way to solve whatever it is you're trying to solve," She answered, making him roll his eyes. She noted that he mentioned the guardians and Simme. It made sense though that he would seek answers about them and that he knew who to target. After all, Anaits probably spoke to him about it as Luka and he knew he was being targeted by Simme thanks to her. "Regarding Mr Agreste, we had to point out that if you forced him to tell us anything, it wouldn't hold up in a court of law,"
"I was willing to deal with him myself," He answered, making her frown. "I could finally bring justice to Paris,"
"That isn't justice," She stated, making him grit his teeth. "It would be vengeance and that isn't who you really are,"
"You don't know the real me," He pointed out. She knew he was right. While Luka was kind and gentle, his akuma seemed to be cold and indifferent but both had a couple of things in common. One of which was determination. Luka was always focused on helping his friends and family and Truth seemed focus on getting the truth from certain people. Probably to solve the issues he was facing as Luka but both also seem unable to actually tell their own truth. Luka was suffering because of the secrets he was keeping and it seems that it hasn't change with Truth. Instead of facing his own lies, he seemed to be focusing on getting the truth from everyone else. "But that doesn't matter. I gave you one chance to stay out of my way and since you've decided not to, I have to get rid of you and that's the truth,"
Ryuko and Aspik got ready to attack, respectively getting ready to use their powers but Lady Noir was thinking up a plan. She knew she needed to get his akuma and amok but as long as Truth was focused on his goal, he would trap them or incapacitate them before leaving to continue his plan. Despite being akuma, he was calm, focused and was thinking out things... but he was also Luka and Luka was an emotional person. What would Truth be like if he wasn't focused or calm?
"Big words coming from someone who can't even face their own truth," She stated, making Ryuko and Aspik look at her. Truth narrows his eyes but doesn't react yet. "I mean that's why you got akumatized, isn't it Luka?"
"Luka isn't here," He stated. "And I know what you're trying to do, Lady Noir and it isn't going to work,"
"Oh, is that the truth hm?" She asked, making him nod. "Sounds like a lie to me,"
"I don't lie!" He snapped.
"Really? Then why can't you tell us the truth hm?!" She asked, making him grit his teeth. "Come on, Luka! What's the secret you're hiding?! What's your truth?!"
"Shut up!" He declared, covering his ears but she kept pushing. "I SAID SHUT UP!"
The windows exploded, making glass fly everywhere, causing the heroes to gasp but Truth charged at them, going to punch Lady Noir. She blocked it and kicked him but he caught her leg and throw her out on the balcony. Ryuko went to attack him but he blocked it and grabbed her sword. Aspik threw his lyre, causing Truth to spin Ryuko and throw her into him but before he could do anything else, Lady Noir dived at him and tried to grab his necklace, summoning her cataclysm as he jumped back. He recovered and grabbed her hand, slamming it onto the sofa and turning it into ash before he threw her into Ryuko and Aspik as they went to get up. They all fell down and he ran out of the window, jumping out the window and landing on Lighteye before it flew off. He took a deep breathe as he tried to calm down. She hit a nerve as he knew she was right. Even as an akuma, he still can't tell the truth.
"Khnurn..." He whispered before feeling a presence next to him. "How can I pass your test when I can't even tell the truth like this?"
~Back at the Grand Paris Hotel~
"Uh he got away," Aspik gasped as Lady Noir frowned, looking at the ruined sofa before she dusted herself down and turned to the other two. Ryuko was frowning and looked deep in thought while Aspik looked torn. He obviously hated fighting Truth as he was fighting his friend and he was probably still reeling from the reveal of the heroes suspecting his father of working with Shadow Moth. "Umm.. so where's Anatis? Shouldn't he be here by now?"
"Regroup on the rooftop," She ordered in a serious tone that felt out of character for her. She also ignored his question. However, he didn't press it. He nodded and turned to Ryuko, who nodded as well. The two began to walk over to the balcony. "I'll be there once I've questioned these two and recharged,"
"Ok," Ryuko nodded before the two of them headed to the roof. Lady Noir turned to Audrey, who was dusting herself down and looking annoyed. Andre, on the other hand, was clearly shaken up. Neither of them had white lips like Lila and her father.
"Urg! This is ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!" Audrey gasped, turning to Lady Noir. "That was a designer sofa by Pierre Yovanovitch himself and you just destroyed it, you use-"
"Shut up and listen," Lady Noir hissed, making Audrey look at her in surprise. "That akuma was called Truth and wanted to know about the guardians and Simme so you're gonna tell me why he targeted you,"
"I have no idea why," She declared, crossing her arms. "I have no idea about these "guardians" or this "Simme","
"We know your daughter Zoe used to be a brain-washed apprentice assassin to the Order of Guardians and Su Han so obviously you're connected," She answered. "So spill it. What do you know that made you a target?"
"Audrey, dear. This akuma seems dangerous and maybe telling Lady Noir here what we know may help,"
"Don't be so stupid!" She huffed before turning to the young heroine. "I can't tell you because I don't know anything,"
Lady Noir gritted her teeth before she turned on her heel and walked out of the room. She knew Audrey was keeping a secret but she was running out of the time. She found a janitor's closet nearby and checked it. Luckily for her, it was open so she slipped inside as her ring beeped rapidly. As soon as she closed the door, she detransformed into Marinette and caught Plagg. She quietly gave him some cheese and leaned against the wall. She takes a deep breathe before she turns back into Lady Noir. She headed up to the rooftop where Aspik, Ryuko, Atratus, Phénix Rouge and Valkyrie. She walked over to Lady Noir.
"The others have brought me up to date," She stated, making Lady Noir nod. "Do we know why he went after the Bourgeois family?"
"He seemed to be trying to get information on the guardian of the miraculous Su Han," She answered, making Atratus frown. "What is it?"
"He went after Mr Agreste as well," He stated, making her raise an eyebrow. "The Agreste and The Bourgeois are two of five families that founded the cult of Miracles,"
"The Cult of Miracles?" Lady Noir asked, making him nod.
"It was once called the Yǐnshēnyǐnbì and was created by one of the celestial guardians as a secret faction of the Order of Miraculous," Atratus explained, making Lady Noir frown as she listened. Anatis and her knew of their existence sometime ago but did Anatis tell Luka about it? "Originally, it's members were his most trusted but sometime in the 1700s, their goal began to change and five families rose through the ranks. The French Families known as Agreste and Bourgeois', the English Family Graham de Vanily, The Japanese Clan of Tsurugi and the Kubdel family that hail from the Amazigh tribe of African,"
"And Truth has already targeted two of those families..." Lady Noir frowned. "We have to take into account that he may go after all of them,"
"It would be wise to contact the other heroes then," Atratus stated, making Lady Noir nod and take out her phone. She saw a number of the heroes were online including Sabertooth, Abeille, Aroma and Dame. She pressed the video call button to call all of them at the same time. Abeille answered first and was with Culpeo. Dame answered, revealing she was with Aroma and Snowbird. Leatherback checked in next, followed closely by Sabertooth and Apollo. Next to answer was King Ox and then finally Tamarin.
"Everyone active has their miraculous?" Lady Noir asked, making all nod.
"Our kwamis came to us and told us there was a dangerous akuma on the loose," Abeille answered.
"They did?" She asked, glancing over at Aspik and the others. "Same for you guys as well?"
"Yes," Ryuko confirmed as the others nodded. "Longg said it was direct instructions from Anatis himself,"
That made Lady Noir raise an eyebrow.
"So Anatis must have realized Luka was going to be akumatized..." She mumbled, making the other heroes frown and a couple of them gasp. Culpeo looked especially distressed.
"The akuma is Luka?" She asked with concern. Lady Noir glanced up as the rest waited for confirmation.
"Yes," She said sadly.
"Where's Anatis?" Leatherback asked, noticing he wasn't there. Lady Noir frowned even more.
"I'm afraid he hasn't turned up yet," She answered, making them all frown. "It is possible that Truth has already captured him but we have no real way to know. Truth claims that Anatis is safe and will join us later but he is also an akuma,"
"So his word can't be trusted," Apollo confirmed, making her nod. "What are the akuma's abilities?"
"He has the ability to force people to tell the truth and he has a sentimonster with him. It appears to be able to create a spotlight that paralyzes anyone in it," She explained. "This is why I have called. We believe he is targeting certain people. He has currently gone after Lila Rossi and her father, Gabriel Agreste and Mayor Andre Bourgeois and his wife Audrey. We believe he may target Amélie Graham de Vanily, Tsurugi Tomoe and her brother and Alim Kubdel. There is also a chance he'll try and target Gabriel and Audrey again,"
"So we should try and protect them?" Abeille asked, making Lady Noir nod.
"But why is he targeting them?" Sabertooth asked, making Lady Noir frown.
"I don't know for certain but these families all have ties to the order of Miraculous," She answered. "Given that the current leader of the Order is in cahoots with the evil spirit Simme and Luka was Simme's target, I believe Luka may be trying to track down this leader and Simme to potentially force them to reveal their true intentions to the world but this is only my theory. I can't be certain. Regardless, he has gone after two families already so these seem like his most likely targets,"
"Then let's split and protect each family," Atratus suggested, making Lady Noir nod. It was the best plan. "And we should try to get in contact with Anatis,"
~Bunnyx's Burrow~
Bunnyx paced as she watched from her burrow. So far, Truth hadn't being overly aggressive so she hadn't made a move to get Anatis yet. It's not that she didn't trust Tikki or anything but she needed to be careful when messing with time travel. It was a last resort after all. Currently, the heroes had made a plan to protect the five founding families that seem to include her own. She was curious about that but right now, she wasn't Alix. She was Bunnyx and she needed her head in the game.
"Bunny, please you have to go get Anatis," Tikki gasped, making her look over at her and the other kwamis. Anatis had made a good plan. Hide the kwamis in the burrow and protect them from Truth. Though she hadn't worked out why Truth would go after the kwamis or how he got to Anatis so quickly. "He may not seem violent right now but..."
"You think he's going to?" She asked, frowning as she looked back. The heroes had divided in five teams. Aroma, Sabertooth and Tarmarin had gone back to guard Agreste Manor while Valkyrie, Apollo and Lord Ox had gone to guard the Grand Paris Hotel. Dame, Phenix and Leatherback had gone to the residents of the Graham de Vanily's home in Paris while Ryuko, Abeille and Snowbird had gone to Tsurugi Manor and Atratus, Culpeo and Lady Noir had gone to the museum to protect Alim Kubdel, leaving Aspik to keep an eye from a distance. It made sense, giving his second chance.
"Not to mention Anatis won't turn up to this battle," One of the other kwamis stated, making Alix frown. They were right. Tikki was here, meaning that Anatis couldn't transform plus Truth already captured him. That's why they needed a past Anatis. However, in the letter, Anatis had stated to 'wait for the right moment'. She wondered what he meant by that. She glanced up as she saw Truth walk into the museum with Lighteye floating nearby. Alix frowned as she watched the scene play out. The heroes were trying to talk Truth down. Even her father swore that he would give up any information he had about the cult of Miracles but he pointed out that Truth wouldn't remember it so it would be better to give the information after he had being deakumatized. However, Truth got annoyed and began to relentless attack them. He seemed to be singly focused on getting Alim and didn't seem to care what he destroyed or who he hurt. He threw Culpeo into a display, breaking it and stalked over to Alim. Atratus went to use his time ability but to everyone's horror, Truth used wind magic to throw Atratus into a sarcophagus, trapping in it before he turned to Alim and Lady Noir. She pushed Alix's father behind her and told him to run before she used her Screech ability. Truth used Elemental magic to summon a shield of ice, blocking her attack before he engaged in a fight with her, causing her to lead him to the art room. She kicked him into the room and used her body to block his exit, hoping to buy Culpeo time to get Atratus out of the sarcophagus. She held out her baton to fight him but unfornately for her, Lighteye forced it's beam of light through a skylight and paralyzed her, allowing Truth to use his akuma ability on her. Her eyes went wide and her lips turned white as Alix looked on in horror. She paused the screen and turned to Tikki.
"Ok, time to get Anatis!" She gasped, making the kwami nod as she grabbed the letter and opened it to check the location again. She hadn't really paid much attention to it when she first read it but now she needed to. "He said to open the burrow on the evening of the day that the Triplets of Terror got akumatized. Ok, that's the time... location... location... wait... Luka's room on the Liberty? Why is that the location?"
She looked up as all of the kwamis rubbed the back of their necks, including Tikki. She glanced back at the paused image of Truth before the pieces suddenly came together. Anatis' plan to protect the kwamis, the location, Tikki being here, Anatis not being able to go into battle and his so called capture. Anatis hadn't being captured by Truth at all. He was Truth.
"Holy crap! Anatis is Luka!" She gasped before her eyes widen as the reality of the situation fully kicked in. Truth wasn't just a dangerous akuma with access to magic. He was Luka and Luka was Anatis, meaning Truth was Anatis. It was a code red. Panic and fear began to flood into her mind as she scrambled to another screen before she brought up the time and location. "Burrow!"
The screen glowed white, allowing her to step into it and into Luka's room. He was staring at the tv in shock before he turned to her. Before she could help herself, she hugged him so relieved to see him normal, even though she knew this was in the past.
"Alix, what's wrong?" He asked, his voice full of emotion and care. The opposite to Truth.
"Luka!" She gasped, tears in her eyes as she looked up at him. "I... I don't know what to do,"
"Take a deep breathe and tell me what happened," He stated, calmly. She nodded and took a deep breathe. She needed to keep a calm head.
"It's... Code Red..." She gasped, making the color drain out of his face as Tikki jumped up. "Lady Noir can't fight him. We need Anatis,"
"Tikki, spots on," He declared, turning into Anatis. He didn't even hesitate. "Take me to them, Bunnyx,"
She nodded and the two of them stepped into the burrow, disappearing into it's light. Anatis glanced around, noticing the other kwamis and the future Tikki. He walked over to her as Bunnyx turned back into Alix. She gave Fluff a carrot to recharge.
"Are you ok?" He asked in a gentle tone. She nodded but looked worried. He didn't blame her. "Don't worry, Tikki. I'll get myself back to normal,"
"I know," She smiled weakly as Fluff told Alix she was recharged. She turned back into Bunnyx and turned to him before Tikki gently kissed his cheek. "Good luck,"
He smiled and nodded before he turned to the screen. He frowned as he saw his akumatized self on screen. The screen was paused but he had his hand on Lady Noir's cheek and her eyes were widen in shock and fear. Her lips were a white color and there was a spotlight on her.
"Truth has the ability to force anyone to tell the Truth. He didn't seem violent at first, even willing to listen to the heroes but now he seemed hyperfocused on forcing anyone to tell the truth, no matter what," She explained. "He can also use magic. He was able to use elemental magic and even was able to trap Atratus in a sarcophagus,"
"Open a burrow above that room," Anatis ordered, making Bunnyx nod. She opened it as he turned to her. "Stay in here and keep an eye on the battle. If things get to the point where we're going to leave, go and get Hua Feng and the other Celestial Mages,"
"I will!" She nodded before he nodded back and rushed out of the burrow. It closed behind him as the sky burst into rain. He frowned as he sensed the world was reacting to Truth. He glanced down and saw Truth pulling away from Lady Noir.
"Now you can't lie to me, Kitty Cat," He declared, crossing his arms. Anatis stepped back to the edge before he ran straight towards the glass window that led to the room. "Who are you beneath the mask, Lady Noir?"
"I am-"
"MY BEST FRIEND!" He declared as he smashed through the window. Truth jumped back and narrowed his three eyes as Lady Noir's eyes widen in relief and joy. Anatis landed on the ground as he spun his yoyo. "And I can promise you that that's no lie, Truth! Prosperity!!"
He threw his yoyo up, causing it to glow and split into two but the second thing wasn't a yoyo. It was almost identical to the yoyo but lacked a string. Truth rose an eyebrow as if not impressed but Anatis smirked before he pressed the middle before he threw it at Truth. Instrictively, Truth caught it as it beeped rapidly, making him realize what it was but before he could react, it exploded into a bright light and loud noise, causing both him and Lighteye to pull back. Anatis took the chance to grab Lady Noir and ran out of there as fast as he could, heading to the Egyptian area where Culpeo and Aspik were trying to get open the sarcophagus that Atratus was trapped in.
"Cataclysm!" She declared, running over and slamming her hand on it. It turned to ash and Atratus let out a sigh of relief.
"Anatis, you're finally here," He declared before looking at Lady Noir. "Truth got you,"
"But luckily, Annie got here just in time," She declared before turning to him. "But I was so afraid that Truth had hurt you,"
"Sorry, I wasn't able to get here immediately," He answered, rubbing the back of his neck.
"ANATIS!" They heard Truth shout angrily.
"We should get out of here quickly," Anatis answered, glancing around. A manhole was highlighted in his luck vision before he rushed over and opened it. The four other heroes climbed in before he followed, silently closing the lid before they ran through the tunnels. Lady Noir's miraculous beeped as a door lit up in his luck vision. He opened as they heard the manhole being opened. Truth had worked out where they were. "You three go that way and go quietly. I'll lead Truth deeper in this direction. Culpeo, I'm gonna need your help,"
"Alright," She nodded as Lady Noir gently grabbed his hands.
"Please be careful," She gasped. "He can use magic,"
"I know but so can I," He answered before he ran off. The four of them went the opposite direction as quietly as possible. Truth came to the door and opened it, glancing around. Anatis and Culpeo were watching nearby. "Culpeo, can you make a mirage to get him to come in this direction?"
"Sure," She nodded before she played her flute and summoned her power. "Mirage,"
She released it before they heard footsteps echoing nearby. Truth heard them to and ran over to them, catching up with the heroes.
"There you are!" He declared before he suddenly stopped and narrowed his eyes. Anatis leaned over to Culpeo and whispered for her to get ready to run. He knew that Truth was definitely going to realize the mirage. As predicted, he waved his hand, causing the mirage to disappear. "A mirage... really?"
He turned to them as Anatis grabbed Culpeo's hand and ran with her. Truth narrowed his eyes and ran after them. The two of them ran deeper til they came to an edge that lead to some water. Truth was closing in on them.
"Culpeo, you know how I gave you those flavored cookies for Trixx?"
"Yeah," She nodded.
"Eat the green one and say power up," He declared, taking out a green magicron. She did the same as he ate his before he declared power up and turned into his aqua form. She followed his action and turned to an aqua form. She gained purple hair that faded into orange on the tips and her outfit was a little different from her normal one. Her hair was done up in a high ponytail but it was more wild and her bangs didn't cover one of her eyes. Her suit had changed a little as well. She still wore an orange unitard but it had a scale pattern on it and two black panels on her hips. The once gray oval in the middle of her suit was replaced by a blue one and she had thigh high black boots with flippers on the end of them and an orange ring at the top. Her two tails that had originally being part of the unitard was now part of a belt that was designed similar to a fin. It started off aqua blue and faded into orange and purple. Her gloves were now black with a blue ring at the elbows and some light orange fins. Her collar had changed to a blue fin-like design and she had fins on the side of her head. Her fingers were webbed as well and her mask was a simple orange with a scale design, matching her unitard. Her hair band was aqua blue and her flute had a blue tip instead of it's normal black one. The final changes were to her lips that were a light shade of pink and her fox ears. They were still the same size as in her classic outfit but the inside of them was a light blue instead of a gray. "Jump now!"
She nodded and dived off the edge, just as Truth caught up to them. She braced herself for impact but as soon as she hit the water, the atmosphere around her felt lighter and she found she could breathe under the water without an issue.
"Can he follow us?" She asked before blinking. She was able to speak perfectly fine.
"He could but I don't think he will," Anatis replied, glancing towards the surface. On the edge where they jumped, Truth was glancing down but turned away and walked off. Anatis poked his head from the water and glanced around before he dived back under. "We should move regardless and try to meet up with everyone else,"
"Ok," She nodded as they swam. However, her miraculous beeped. "Uh should I be worried?"
"No, we'll get out of the water before you turn back," He answered as they continued to swim. He changed direction and breached through the surface before looking around again. He saw that they were under one of the bridges of the Seine and there was no one around. The heavy rain saw to that. He dived back under and swam over to her. "There's a bridge above us and no one is around,"
"Ok," She nodded, following him before they both pulled themselves onto the pathway under the bridge. Anatis sat on the edge as her transformation dropped. She caught Trixx as he opened his yoyo and took out a cookie for Trixx. He took it and began to eat it as Juleka sat next to him.
"You ok?" He asked softly as she fiddled with her thumbs.
"I'm scared..." She admitted. "What happens if we can't save Luka?"
"We will," He confirmed. "I promise you,"
She glanced at him but before either could say anything, his yoyo ran. He answered it.
"Hey, Kitten. We're just waiting for Trixx to recharge," He stated as Trixx took the last bite. "Anything new?"
"Well, the good news is Truth hasn't attacked anyone of the five families," She explained, making him nod. "But the other heroes have reported seeing his sentimonster flying alone. We're not actually sure where he's gone,"
"That's concerning," He admitted. "Hold on, I'm putting you on speaker so I can check the news,"
"Ok," She stated as he pressed the speaker button. He began to scroll through the news reporters and akuma app but at that present moment in time, nothing was on there. However, that changed when a notification for Aurora's weather blog came through. He wasn't surprised that she was doing her blog as the weather was unusual right now. He clicked it and saw her filming Truth as she stayed hidden.
"Anatis, Lady Noir... I'm not sure if you know but there appears to be an akuma and he seems... odd," She whispered as he walked through the Tuileries Garden, talking to himself.
"Yes, this looks right..." He muttered as a guard of the gardens rushed over. Truth however ignored him as he looked around the gardens. "Hmm,"
"Hey! The gardens are closed off due to the weather! If it keeps raining like this, the Seine will burst," The guard stated as Truth completely ignored him. "Hey, kid! Did-"
"Ecnelis," He declared, causing the guard's mouth to slam shut before he walked pass him. "Lighteye, find the heroes and trap them. I can't have them interfere with my circle,"
"Circle?" Juleka asked as she looked over. Anatis frowned deeply. "What does that mean?"
"It means we need to stop him asap," He declared. "Lady Noir, get the others and meet me and Culpeo at the Tuileries Gardens. Truth is there but do not engage until we're there,"
"Roger!" She declared before hanging up. He turned to Juleka and Trixx as thunder began to rumble and lightening struck. Juleka glanced at the sky before turning to Trixx, who looked just as worried.
"Are you ready?" She asked, causing the kwami to nod. "Trixx-"
"Trixx, here," Anatis stated, taking out another magiciron. "We'll be able to get there quicker if we take the water,"
"Ok," Juleka nodded as Trixx took it and ate it. "Trixx, power up!"
Trixx glowed and spun around before turning into a different force. He still looked like a fox but he had some fins on his arms and a tail where his legs and tail had being. They were light blue that faded into a light purple. He also had some fins on the side of his head with the same colours.
"Mer-Trixx!" He declared, smiling a little as Juleka looked on in amazement. "What you waiting for, Kit! Let's go!"
"Alright," She nodded. "Mer-Trixx, let's pounce!"
Mer-Trixx got sucked back into the miraculous and she turned back into her aqua form. Her and Anatis dived into the water and swam to where they were meeting the others. They exited the waters, called off their aqua transformations and began to run over. Anatis saw some human shapes as they ran past the cinema, causing them to light up in his luck vision. He turned and grabbed them, revealing them to be cutouts of himself and Lady Noir. He set them up then joined Culpeo as she rose an eyebrow.
"That should trick his sentimonster," He explained as they ducked down behind a wall. Low and behold, Lighteye appeared and 'trapped' the two cutouts, mistaking them for the real ones. Anatis and Culpeo ran from it, heading to the other heroes who were observing Truth, who was focused on whatever he was doing. Anatis and Culpeo joined them. "What's he being doing?"
"Not much," Lady Noir stated. "I'm not entirely sure what his logic is but he stole a dry line maker and has being painting something with it,"
"It's a circle of magic," Atratus stated, making all the heroes frown as he climbed over. "I took the chance to look from a height and it's definitely that. I think he knows we're here as he keeps looking over but he seems fixated on making this circle. Given that he's an akumatized mage, this comes as no surprise but he seems more fixsated then Black Swan was,"
"Black Swan?" Anatis questioned, making Atratus raise an eyebrow and Lady Noir look at him with concern. "Right... the akuma...? Black Swan... Sorry, my brain went to Swan Lake for a second there,"
"It's fine," Atratus stated. "Anyway, given that his goal is make people tell the truth... I suspect that's what his goal is,"
"Force everyone to tell the truth with a spell that will more then like amplify the ability he has as an akuma," Anatis stated, frowning. "We need to stop him! Lucky Charm!"
He threw up his yoyo, causing his outfit to change into his upgraded form as the magical swarm turned into a roll of foil, causing Anatis to catch it. He glanced around yet nothing lit up.
"Ok, not sure how to use this yet but let's distract him," He stated, putting it on his belt and getting a nod of the heroes before all of them dived from the building they were and landed on the ground, ready to fight Truth. Anatis threw his yoyo and wrapped around his hand, pulling it back from the stolen dry line maker. Truth narrowed his eyes and yanked his hand forward, pulling Anatis forward and going to slam his fist into him. Anatis dodged and rolled out of the way before the two of them started to fight.
"Lighteye! Come back! Now!" He declared, dodging Anatis' attacks and returning his own attacks. Both were equally matched as they thought.
"Aspik! Give us a second chance!" Anatis ordered, getting slammed into the ground by Truth before he wrapped his legs around and reversed the role. Aspik nodded and set a second chance as Lady Noir dived at Truth, who blocked her attack.
"Annie, work out how to use your charm and we'll keep him busy!" She declared, getting a nod of Anatis as Truth grabbed her arm.
"Always doing the hard work huh?!" He declared. "Poor Kitten, having such a useless partner!"
"He's not useless!" She declared, slamming him over her shoulder and jumping back as Culpeo and Abeille engaged him. She pointed to her lips. "See? I can't lie!"
"Clearly so why don't you- Ah!" He gasped as he slipped. The floor beneathe him had gone slippery. He sent a glare towards Snowbird, who waved at him. Ryuko called upon Lightening Dragon and repeatedly attacked him while Phenix used Fire Phoenix, keeping him busy. Lady Noir jumped back over to Anatis.
"Anything?" She asked as he looked around. Tarmarin summoned her power, getting a toy snake and tried to throw it at Truth as Lord Ox tried to attack him. Truth grabbed Lord Ox and used him as a shield against Tarmarin's power before he threw him into her. Abeille activated her pollen and tried to attack as Sabertooth went to sneak up on Truth but he saw them coming and grabbed Abeille's hand, slamming it into Sabertooth and making her gasp. "This isn't looking good!"
Anatis nodded in agreement as he continued to look around. Cupleo and Apollo were trying to dodge Lighteye who had returned while Aspik was shouting directions. Apparently, Truth had defeated them over 10,000 times already. Anatis could believe it though. He glanced around again before his luck vision finally kicked in, lighting up a parasol, Culpeo and Apollo, Phenix Rogue, Lady Noir then Dame and Leather before finally light up Lighteye.
"I've got a plan!" He shouted, jumping over to the parasol. "Phenix! Apollo! Culpeo! Give us cover and get Lord Ox and Sabertooth out of there! Those who have used their powers and need to recharge, retreat!"
"Roger!" The three heroes replied. Apollo summoned his power and fired his arrow, blinding Truth. Culpeo used her mirage to keep the light active before grabbing Sabertooth. When Truth managed to get rid of the illusion, Phenix used Ash Phoenix to cover his line of sight as Anatis began to wrap the foil over the parasol. "Lady Noir! I need you to use a cataclysm on Lighteye! Dame, use your empower ability on Leatherback so his shelter is amplified! We contain Lighteye when he goes crazy and make sure Truth is in the radius!"
"ANATIS!" Truth growled, grabbing Phenix within the ash and throwing him aside. Snowbird rushed over and helped him up with Ryuko as Truth stalked over. Atratus jumped down and slammed his staff into him.
"Time Hiatus!" He declared, slamming his staff down and trapping Truth in a time bubble but almost instantly he began to break free. "Anatis! Put your plan into action now!"
"Right!" He nodded, causing Dame and Lady Noir to act.
"Cataclysm!" Lady Noir declared, jumping up and slamming her hand on Lighteye.
"Empower!" Dame declared at the same time, making her sword glow green before she tapped Leatherback. He held up his shield as Lady Noir slammed her hand on Lighteye.
"Shelter!" He declared, causing his force field to appear but it was much bigger then normal, trapping all of them inside it. Atratus rushed over to Anatis as he jumped in front of Leatherback, putting up the foiled covered parole as Lady Noir and Dame joined them. Lighteye flew around crazily, flashing its light spot as Truth break free from the time bubble. He jumped back and dodged it as Anatis handed the parasol to Lady Noir and threw his yoyo, wrapping it around Lighteye and pulling himself on it before he took the reigns and directed it's eye at the foiled parasol, flashing directing it towards Truth, paralyzing him. He went to throw his yoyo to break his necklace but Truth himself suddenly lit up, causing Anatis' eyes to widen before Leatherback and Culpeo lit up as well. He hesitated for a second before calling out to them.
"Culpeo, I need you to detransform," He stated, surprising all of the heroes. "And Leatherback, I need to borrow your shield,"
"Are you sure?" She replied back as Leatherback took off his shield. Lady Noir looked over the parsole.
"Annie, we almost have him defeated," She stated, making him glance at her as Dame and Atratus glanced over as well.
"I know but trust me," He replied, giving them a soft smile. Atratus glanced around.
"There's reporters watching us," He stated, noticing the helicopters around. "Just deakumatize him. That's the best outcome,"
"It isn't," He answered, making them all frown. "My luck vision lit him up as well as those two. Tikki hasn't pointed me wrong before. As for the reporters,"
He closed his eyes and took a deep breathe, channeling Alpheus' power. Instantly, a heavy and thick mist began to surround them, blocking out the view of the fight from the reporters entirely.
"There," He stated, opening his now silver eyes before he looked at Culpeo. "That will protect your identity from the public so trust me ok?"
"I do," She nodded. "Trixx, let's crouch,"
Her transformation disappeared and she caught Trixx, making Leatherback gasp a little. Atratus didn't seem surprised and Dame didn't show any shock if she felt any. Lady Noir nodded but kept the Parsole up. If she lowered it, everyone would be trapped in Lighteye's beam. Leatherback threw his shield to Anatis, who caught it and placed it over Lighteye's eye, blocking it's spotlight. Truth stumbled forward for a moment before glancing up at Anatis. He should take advantage of his sudden choice but then Lady Noir lifted the parsole and he saw Juleka. His eyes widen as he understood the plan.
"J-Juleka..." He gasped in shock as reality hit him. Juleka was Culpeo and he... he had attacked her. He had attacked his own sister. Instantly, she rushed over and hugged him. That was the last straw as he finally broke down. His tears started to fall freely as he hugged her back. "Jules, I'm so sorry! I'm a useless bro-"
"It's ok, Luka," She reassured, shaking her head. "You're not useless,"
"But I attacked you!" He gasped. "I attacked everyone! Oh god... did I hurt Ma and Marinette?!"
"No, no. You didn't," She gasped, realizing why Anatis went with what his luck vision had hinted to him. "You didn't hurt any-"
"But I have!" Truth declared, shaking as tears rolled down his cheeks. "I keep lying to you! I keep pushing everyone away! I'm so tired of everything, Juleka. I can't keep lying but I can't tell the truth either!"
"Luka..." She gasped as he sobbed, sinking to his knees. She glanced at Anatis, who was holding Lighteye in place though the sentimonster was struggling but not as if it was fighting to free itself. She got the impression it just wanted to comfort Luka. The sound of heavy rain began to hit the shellter as if the sky itself was crying along side Luka. She turned back to him and knelt down in front of him. "Luka, listen to me. Do you remember what I told you after I got akumatized back into Little Sister?"
"Y-you said that I didn't have to lie to you. Whatever it was, we could handle it together," He whispered, looking down. "But I can't-"
"I also said that when you were ready, I will listen," She stated, interrupting him and making him look at her. "Everyone has secrets and that's ok. You don't need to share yours until you're ready and if that day never comes... then it never comes. It isn't going to change that you're still my brother and I love you,"
"Jules..." He whispered as she took his hands in his.
"Whatever it is that you need, I will do my best to provide it. If that's someone to listen to you or space. You don't need to suffer alone. I am here for you and so is Ma, Uncle Jagged, Auntie Penny, our friends and Marinette. Whatever you're going through, you don't have to do it alone. Even if you can't tell us what it is," She stated, making his eyes widen. "You can hit me with your power if you want so you can see I'm telling the Truth,"
"I... I don't need to, Juleka," He stated, touched by her love and faith in him. Simme had being trying to convince him that he's alone and had being taking advantage of the despair he had infected him wiht and his depression had amplified with it. He glanced up at Anatis as he lit up in his sight, making him understand what he needed to do and what he was going through. Yes, he was depressed. How could he not be? Master Fu and Master Mila were gone and he was grieving them and his fear of creating Lady Blanche was holding him back too but while these things had added to his stress, depression and despair, he also hadn't made it better for himself. Instead of embracing the support he had, he pushed them away. Instead of facing his issues, he buried his head in the sand, desperately trying to stop the Truth. Not because he was afraid of being akumatized. Sure, he was but because he knew that he would have to face the Truth eventually. It was inevitable and because of his fear and obsession to try to prevent it, he allowed himself to fall for Simme's trap. His despair wasn't his fault but as the saying goes 'Misery loves company'. He may not have intentionally tried to drag everyone down with him but he had and now he had a choice before him. Continue in his web of despair and not only allow Simme to win but drag down everyone he loves with him or he can accept the truth of his pain and face it. He knew what to do. He gently pulled his hands away from hers and stood up, giving her a reassuring look. He walked over to Anatis and Lighteye and looked up at Anatis. "... The akuma and amok is in my necklace. I don't think I have the strength to reject them myself though..."
"I understand," Anatis nodded before Truth took off the necklace and held it to him. He took it as Truth looked at Lighteye.
"I know you have to destroy Lighteye but could I hug him so he isn't afraid?" He asked, making Anatis nod. Truth slowly wrapped his arms around the Sentimonster, instantly calming it down. "It's ok, Lighteye. I'm here,"
Anatis gently pulled his yoyo free from Lighteye and used it to break the necklace, freeing the akuma and amok. Truth closed his eyes as Lighteye disappeared before the purple smog engulfed him, turning back into Luka as Anatis caught them and purified them. Almost instantly, his eyes rolled up into his head and he fell forward, causing Anatis to catch him as his nose began to bleed and he began to fit more violently then anyone had ever seen. Juleka rushed over as Anatis held him. He carefully placed him in the recovery position, gently holding his head so he wouldn't hit his head. Atratus and Leatherback rushed over as Lady Noir put the parsole down and moved over to him. She gently took Luka's hand in hers as Juleka helped Anatis hold his head. Dame just stared in horror. She didn't know an akuma could have such a side effect.
"W-what's wrong with him?!" Leatherback asked in a panicked tone.
"It's because of the akuma," Anatis explained as Atratus knelt down and held his hand over him.
"His spiritual energy is dangerously low," He stated, frowning.
"Leatherback, can you hold his head please?" Anatis stated. Leatherback nodded and took Anatis' place as he gently placed his hand where Luka's heart is. He closed his eyes and breathed in. Slowly, he began to glow a light silver that slowly turned into a soft gold. Luka stated to glow the same shade and slowly but surely, his seizure began to calm down until it finally stopped. However, Anatis didn't pulled away straight away until Atratus suddenly pulled him back. "W-why did you stop me?"
"Your spiritual energy has dropped into dangerous levels as well," He stated, narrowing his eyes. "If I hadn't, you may have hurt yourself,"
"R-right," He nodded, feeling weak and tired. Lady Noir's, Dame's and Leatherback's miraculous beeped, reminding Anatis that he needed to release the cure. He grabbed the box of foil and threw it up. "Miraculous Ladybugs!"
The box burst into the cure and spread around, fixing everything before it came back and spread around Lady Noir before it disappeared. She was still holding Luka's hand and Juleka was stroking his hair while Trixx looked at him with a worried expression. His eyes were closed but he was breathing. Atratus walked over to them and knelt down.
"I will take him to the hospital," He stated, moving to gently pick up Luka. Juleka stood up.
"I'm coming with you," She stated as Trixx flew up.
"I haven't recharged yet but-"
"Here, Trixx," Anatis stated, pulling a small piece of candy out of his yoyo. Trixx took it and glanced at him. Anatis looked tired and pale. "Hey, don't worry. I'll be ok,"
The little kwami frowned, knowing that this Anatis had no idea how bad it got but he knew he couldn't tell him. Rules of time travel and all. Fluff would kick his butt, even if it was for Anatis. He thanked him and ate the candy, flying over to Juleka. The mist was still covering them but Leatherback's shellter was long gone.
"I'm charged up, Kit," He declared, causing her to nod and transform back into Culpeo. She turned to Anatis and nodded at him as Atratus held Luka in his arms with the young man's head leaning against him. Anatis nodded back before the two of them jumped away as Lady Noir walked over.
"Are you ok?" She asked as her miraculous beeped, along with Dame's and Leatherback's.
"I'm fine," He smiled. "Go before you transform back,"
She nodded and jumped off before he turned to Dame and Leatherback.
"For now, keep your miraculous but I'll collect them later ok?" He stated, making both heroes nod and jump off. He threw his yoyo and pulled himself up to the rooftops, taking a moment as he felt drained. It had being a hard battle. A burrow opened up in front of him and he stepped into it.
"You did it!" Bunnyx gasped, happily before she saw him. "Anatis, are you ok?"
"I'm fine. Just tired," He smiled weakly as Tikki and the other kwamis flew over to him. "What will you guys do?"
"We'll go back to the Liberty and stay in the miracle boxes until Luka has recovered and comes back," Ziggy explained as the other kwamis nodded. Anatis nodded in reply before turning to Tikki.
"And you?"
"I'll do the same but make sure to stay near to Juleka so she can use the ladybug miraculous if there's an akuma,"
"Wow, I really thought of everything," He smiled, a little proud of himself. "But hopefully, I can work out what happened and prevent it from every occurring,"
All the kwamis glanced at each other, making him frown.
"I can prevent it... right?"
"We don't know," Tikki admitted, making him frown.
"But you can try!" Barkk gasped as the other kwamis nodded, not wanting to scare him.
"Yeah!"
"Definately!"
"Ok, Ok. I'll try my best," He smiled, making the kwamis let out a sigh of relief before he turned to Bunnyx as his miraculous beeped. "Alright, time to go home,"
"Thanks for your help, Luka," She smiled, making him ruffle his hair.
"Just don't tell anyone else ok?" He stated, getting a nod of her before he climbed back into his room. He waved as she closed the burrow before all the kwamis let out a sigh. She turned to them and frowned.
"What is it?" She asked, making them all look down. "He'll find a way to prevent Truth right?"
"It... it can't be prevented, Bunny," Tikki explained, making her frown. "The Truth is coming for him,"
~At the Hopsital~
"We've done what we can but it doesn't look good, Ms Couffaine. Physically, he seems fine. His brain and organs have no damage and there's no injuries but we can not explain why he's in a coma," The doctor stated, making Anarka gasped. Luka was attached to machines as he had slipped into a coma. Juleka was sat in the room, holding his hand. The heroes Atratus and Culpeo had brought him to the hospital and contacted her, making her, Jagged and Penny race to the hospital. Culpeo had gone to go get Juleka and Atratus had stayed to ensure no akumas came for the family. He was still stood quietly in the corner. While she hadn't met him, his presence there was reassuring but the news the doctor had given her made her fear rise. "We're not sure he'll ever wake up again but we will do our best to look after him. Given that this is caused by akumas, we are operating in the dark here,"
"I understand but please try your best," She answered, making the doctor nod.
"We will but it may be best to move him into long term care for coma patients," The doctor explained, making her frown. "I know it's hard to hear but they will be better equipped to look after him. Ultimately, it is your choice but we do have documents ready if you decided to go for it,"
"Thank you," She answered before walking into the room. Jagged instantly pulled her into his arms and held her as Penny rubbed her arm. "They think he won't wake up,"
"He'll be ok, Ma," Juleka stated, keeping hold of Luka's hand. "He's strong,"
"I have placed some sigils around the room to keep akumas out so I will give you some peace," Atratus stated, getting a nod of them and stepping outside. After he had brought Luka to the hospital with Culpeo, he contacted Anarka, explaining what had happened and who he was. She had being distrustful at first but he had explained who he was and what he could do as well as his connection to Anatis. Luckily, that allowed him to gain a small amount of her trust. He leaned against the wall as the two people walked over. One was a teenaged girl with twin braids and wearing modern but Indigenous clothing and the older man next to her was in more traditional Indigenous clothing. "Can I help you?"
"You must be one of the heroes of Paris," The older man stated.
"I am. Who are you?"
"I am Guardian Mau Tau and this is the holder of the Falcon Miraculous Jessica Keynes," He stated, gesturing to the girl. He recalled she was one of the heroes who helped out at the situation in America.
"Sup," She nodded, making him nod back.
"What brings you here?" He asked.
"Anatis asked us to come and help out a young man called Luka," Mau Tau stated as two others joined them. Atratus rose an eyebrow at both his comment and the newcomers. There was a sense of magic coming from them. Mau Tau must have sensed it as well as he turned to look at them. The woman was pretty looking with green eyes and short brown hair. She was dressed in a summer dress and had a golden feather around her neck. The man next to her had wild hair that resembled a lion's mane and was a blue gray color. He was dressed in a dark blue hanfu and had brown red eyes. He had a blue orb around his neck. "Uh.."
"You're both spirits," Atratus stated, making the woman smile before the lion man looked at her.
"Ah, this one can sense our true forms,"
"He is the acting grand mage of Paris," She explained before she placed her hand on her heart and bowed her head. "I am Jean D'arc, the spirit of Valour and this is Mei Shi, the Spirit of Discipline,"
Mei Shi placed his hands together and bowed as both Mau Tau and Jessica looked in on shock. The door opened and Juleka stepped out before blinking as she looked at the odd group before she recognized Jessica.
"Jess?" She asked. "What are you doing here?"
Jessica walked over to her.
"Anatis contacted me and my master to help your brother," She explained, making Juleka glance over. "Mine's the one with the eyebrows,"
That made Juleka laugh a little as Anarka stepped out as well.
"Everything ok, Lass?" She asked, looking at the four strangers. "Who are you lot?"
"We are allies of Anatis," Jean stated, stepping forward. "You must be Captain Anarka,"
"That's me," She answered, looking to Atratus, who nodded. "And you are?"
"Jean D'arc," She smiled, making Anarka look at her in shock. "Yes, the one that died in the 100 years war,"
"W-what? How?!" She gasped. Jean D'arc explained that she was now the spirit of Valour and Anatis had asked her to help with Luka's recovery. "I don't understand... you can help my boy? and you? Who are you?"
"Guardian Mau Tau. Anatis also came to me for help," He explained. "We have a temple located in the Antarctica that was created by the original Celestial Guardian Huo Feng as a place of healing and safety,"
"And this can help my son?"
"He built it for your son," Mei Shi explained, making her look at him. "Master Feng foresaw these events long ago and took it upon himself to build a temple that would be a place of healing and respite for the young guardian,"
"Young guardian?" Anarka asked as Juleka frowned. "What do you mean young guardian? My boy-"
"Meishi, I told you he hadn't told them yet," Jean scolded, making him rub the back of his neck. Juleka stepped forward.
"Guardian? You mean Luka is a guardian... of the miraculous?" She asked, making the two spirits rub the back of their necks. "That's the secret he couldn't tell, isn't it? The truth he had to lie about?"
"The situation is a lot more complicated then that, young kit," Jean answered, surprising Juleka a little. "But yes, that is part of it,"
"Wait! When did my son become a guardian of the miraculous?!" Anarka gasped. "Did you force him into it?!"
"Goodness, no," Jean gasped, holding up her hands as Mau Tau glanced at her. She took a moment before glancing at Juleka and the Captain. "Unfortunately, it is not my place to explain the situation,"
"Then who will explain it?!" Anarka asked, causing the spirits to look at each other. "Well?!"
"The only person who can fully explain is Luka himself," Jean confirmed before she looked at Anarka. "Captain, I understand that this must be strange for you and I'm sure you have plenty of questions but please understand. We are here to help,"
Anarka narrowed her eyes and glanced at the two spirits and the guardian. Jessica was stood next to Juleka. She turned her glaze to her daughter then to her son, frowning as she did. The doctors said that it didn't look good for Luka. Physically speaking, there was nothing wrong with him. His brain was working as were his other organs but they couldn't explain his coma and they had never being able to explain why he reacted to akumas in the way he did. She turned to Jean.
"You can help my boy?" She asked, making her nod.
"Yes. It is the very reason why Anatis contacted us to begin with,"
"And why can't Anatis be here himself to confirm this?" Anarka asked, making Jean frown. "I trust Anatis and the heroes of Paris but I do not trust you... so tell me why isn't Anatis here to explain who you are? And don't lie to me. I've had enough of lies,"
"I understand, Captain," Jean nodded. "The truth is that Anatis in unable to be here because the fight against Truth took it's toll on him,"
"I can confirm this, Anarka," Atratus stated, feeling this was the right time to step in. She looked at him. "In order to stabilize Luka's condition after deakumatizing him, Anatis shared his own spiritual energy but doing so drained him to a point of exhaustion. If I hadn't pulled him back, he could have killed himself,"
"Spiritual energy?" Anarka asked before she looked over at Luka. Healthy yet trapped in a coma. "Is that what's wrong with my boy? Spiritual damage?"
"Yes," Mei Shi confirmed. "I experienced something similar after I was deakumatized. All mages and spirits experience spiritual damage after being possessed by akumas due to our natural ability to wield magic. That is why he has such an unique reaction to the akumas. The stronger the magic, the stronger the damage but not all is lost. It can be healed,"
"It can be?" She asked, causing Mau Tau to step forward and nod, explaining that spiritual damage can be healed with the use of certain herbs, crystals and energy work. His recovery would also be sped up if they moved him to the Antarctica temple as it is located on the true axis mundi,"
"Axis mundi?" Anarka asked as Juleka frowned.
"The Centre of the World," Atratus stated, nodding. "In other words, all spiritual energy and magic converge there,"
"Yes but also this temple was designed to be more as a place for long term healing for physical, mental and spiritual injuries," Mau Tau explained. "Arguably, one could call it a spiritual hospital or at least that's what the records say,"
"You've never being there?" Anarka asked, making him nod. "How do we know it will be the best place for Luka? And won't it be freezing since it's in the Antarctica?!"
"Ma, I think this may be the best place for Luka," Juleka stated, making her look at her. "The doctors can't help him because his injuries isn't physical. If he stays here, he won't get better... so please, let's trust them,"
"Juleka..." Anarka answered before she looked to Atratus. "You told me that you see outcomes right? If we take Luka to this temple... what's the outcome for it?"
"It is the ideal outcome," He answered, making her nod. "If you want, I will enchant the hospital staff to-"
"No need," Anarka stated. "We will tell them that we will move Luka to a location designed for long term care for coma patients. I will go and tell Jagged and Penny then we will work out how to move him there,"
She turned on her heel and entered the room. A few moments later, Jagged and Penny followed her out. She introduced them to the spirits and guardian then Jessica before she explained the plan. Penny nodded as she listened.
"I will go and sort out the documents to have him moved into our care then," She stated. Luckily for them, the doctors had already suggested it.
"I will join you," Anarka stated before the two women walked off. Jagged checked on Juleka as everyone waited. The two women came back a few minutes later and nodded. "It's done. Now we just need to work out h-"
As she spoke, a portal suddenly opened and Valkyrie stepped out, followed by Sir Rene in his Rabbit form. Juleka gasped as she saw him.
"Sir Rene?" She asked, making him nod.
"Hello, young squire," He smiled softly before turning to the adults and the spirits as Jessica stated in shock. Rene nodded towards Jean before he cleared his throat. "I believe you need some assistance to get to the Antarctica temple?"
"I'm sorry... who are you?" Anarka asked, though somehow she felt like she knew this strange man. There was a sense of familiarity to him and her gut told her she could trust him and that he was a kind man. He placed his hand on his heart and bowed towards her.
"I am Sir Rene of Avalon," He explained. "The Fourth Celestial Guardian of the Miraculous, the Grand Mage of Parisius and the Dragon Knight of Camelot. It is a pleasure to meet you, Captain Anarka of the Liberty,"
"You know me?" She asked, surprised.
"Yes, young Juleka told me about you when she and her friends got sent back to my time by the history keepers," He explained, making Juleka nod as she looked at him. He turned to Valkyrie, who's miraculous beeped. "Go and feed Kaalki,"
"Yes, Sir Rene!" Valkyrie did before running to the women's rest room. Jean walked over to him.
"Perfect timing as usual, Rene," She smiled.
"Ah Jean. You're still around?" He asked, making her realize this is a younger one then the last time she saw him. She nodded, making him smile. "Excellent! Ah Meishi! You're in your human form! It suits you,"
"Thank you, Guardian," He smiled back, causing Rene to grin happily. Anarka couldn't help but find the strange young man endearing. Penny and Jagged were staring at him before Jagged snapped his fingers.
"You're the Knight in that painting!" He declared, making Rene look at him. "The one that was painted by da Vinci and was lost but was recently recovered!"
"Good eye, sir," He grinned. "Yes, my dear friend Leonard did in fact paint me. We had a lot of fun during that time. Ah, perfect timing, Valkyrie,"
He smiled as she walked back over before he entered Luka's room and walked over. Luka was laid in the hospital bed with his hand on his stomach and his eyes closed. His chest was moving up and down and he had a drip on his hand. Rene gently took his hand and very carefully removed the drip as everyone watched. It made Anarka realize that he somehow had modern medical knowledge. He carefully picked up Luka, causing the younger to lean against him.
"You remember the coordinates yes?" He asked Valkyrie, making her nod. She summoned her power and circled her hand as a ball of light appeared on there before she threw it.
"Voyage!" She declared, opening it before she gestured towards it. "After you, Sir Rene,"
"Thank you. Come, friends," He stated, glancing at everyone before he stepped through with Luka. Juleka followed instantly before the two spirits, Jessica and Mau Tau. Penny looked at Anarka, who went through next then at Jagged. He nodded back and went through as she turned to Atratus.
"Are you coming?"
"No, I should head home," He answered. "Valkyrie, keep in contact and let Culpeo to keep in contact as well,"
"I will do!" She declared as he turned to leave.
"I wish Luka a speedy recovery," He stated before disappear in a puff of smoke. Penny rose an eyebrow before she stepped through as well. Valkyrie followed her and closed the portal as everyone looked around. The temple was more homely then they expected and it was surprisingly warm for a structure built of ice. Sir Rene walked over to an archway and into the room beyond it. Inside was a bed made of stone. Surrounding it were ashes and golden feathers and there were several sigils on the wall that were glowing slightly. Rene gently placed Luka on the stone bed and moved the blanket he was in so he was in so it covered his body. The air shimmered slightly as Khnurn stepped out from the spirit world, holding Ra in his hands.
"How is he?" He asked, looking over at Luka.
"He's not in the worst shape but he could be better," He admitted. "Simme did a real number on him,"
"Yes, the despair was like poison in his veins," He answered before glancing over to the arch. "His family are here?"
"Yes," Rene replied. "As is Meishi and Jean as well as a guardian i haven't met yet,"
"Mau Tau. He is one of Toutai's chosen," Khnurn replied, stroking Ra as he glanced at Luka with a worried expression.
"He will be ok, Khnurn,"
~In The Spirit Realm~
Luka blinked and looked up at the starry sky in front of him. He frowned before he slowly sat up and looked around. There was a waterfall nearby and he was lying in a field of lotuses. There was a sweet smell in the air. He slowly got up and looked around as he noticed the flowers moving and dark mist slowly closing in. He narrowed his eyes.
"Simme, I know you're there," He stated, making the wicked spirit laugh before a snake rose from the flowers. The ones around it were dying. "You're not in your cage anymore,"
"Clearly," It chuckled. "Don't worry. That wasn't your doing, my dear little mage. I simply got strong enough by consuming souls to break myself out. Swans are quite tasty and no one ever misses the homeless,"
"You've being consuming the souls of the homeless?" Luka asked in an angry tone. Simme laughed before he went to lunge at Luka. However, Luka jumped back and summoned a flame, hitting Simme with it. "Huh... I can use Alpheus' magic freely?"
"Urg your flames hurt!" Simme hisses with a clear pain. "Those never hurt me before! What did you do?!"
Luka glanced at his hands before he walked over to Simme, who hissed at him.
"I corrupted you! You shouldn't be able to hurt me!" He hissed, changing into a bigger snake. "I infected you with despair!"
"Yes you did," He answered as he looked up to him. "But you were never going to win because I was never going to give in to you. You tried to convince me I was alone and unloved and that is a lie. I am not alone and I never have being. Yes, you infected me with despair and my own pain amplified it but I will not let you win! I will face my pain and rise above it and that is the truth!"
Simme screeched and went to attack him but Luka jumped back and grabbed his jaw, stopping Simme from attacking him. As he held him off, his eyes turned from blue to silver and the smell of burning filled his nose as Simme screeched in pain but Luka didn't let go. He wasn't done yet.
"You can take back your despair, Simme! I don't want it anymore!" He declared, tightening his grip. "So take it! All of it! All at once!"
Simme struggled as the veins on Luka's hands appeared black but they began to spread over Simme. Slowly, the ones on Luka turned gold, taking over the black. He shoved Simme away and looked at him as Simme hissed angrily.
"You... you rejected the despair I infected you with?! But I fully infected you!!" He hissed, angrily and confused. Luka should have being too far gone to reject it and Finni was too weak right now to help him. "How?! How is that possible!? Even Feng isn't that strong?! How are you?!"
Simme's eyes widen as he looked at Luka. He could see his aura which was glowing far brighter then any aura he had ever seen. For a moment, it was a blue color before it changed into a rainbow with colors that represented all of them. Purple for Khnurn, Indigo for Feng, Green for Toutai, Yellow for Alpheus, Red for Sir Rene, Blue for Luka himself and finally Orange for Finni. Simme hissed angrily but then it began to glow brighter before all of the colors started to merge, turning into a pure white. His eyes widen even more and for the first time in a while, he felt fear. Luka, this child before him, had an aura of pure white and that only meant one thing. Luka was the spirit of humanity itself. Luka seemed to feel the change in his aura as he moved his hands before he looked at Simme as his eyes became a silvery blue.
"Impossible!" He gasped, looking at Luka with pure fear. "You can't have that! You can't be that!"
"Be what? The Spirit of Humanity?" He asked, making Simme hissed. Now that he had realized what his spirit trail was, a lot of things made sense. "No wonder why you wanted to destroy me before I learnt my spirit trait. I'm the very thing you've hated all your life, aren't I? You were born from the cruelty from the hearts of man and Finni was born from the kindness in there but me? I'm the spirit of humanity, are I? And that means you're wrong about humans. Because if they were naturally evil and cruel.. I would be evil and cruel but I'm not,"
"But I exist meaning you're wrong!" Simme argued, sounding like a child. "Humans are cruel,"
"Hmm some are but not all," He answered before he crossed his arms. Simme hated how confidence and calm Luka was. Simme knew he had lost. He hissed and retreated, disappearing in the darkness. Luka let out a sigh before he walked over to the dying flowers. Lying among them was Finni in his bird form. This must have being where he went rest when his past self transferred his spiritual energy to his current self but he seemed far worst for wear. Luka however wasn't surprised. Simme was trying to hurt him as well. Luka gently knelt down and carefully scooped up the phoenix, gently holding it to himself. "I'm sorry it took me so long to get here, Finni and I'm sorry it took me so long to embrace all of who I am,"
The phoenix stirred and glowed golden before Luka felt arms round him in a hug.
"It's ok, Luka," Finni stated, causing Luka to look at the smaller boy. "I knew you'd come back to me,"
Luka smiled before returning the hug as a golden light surrounded them. Finni turned into his kwami form as a golden feather marking appeared on Luka's forearm. A surge of power engulfed him and he stood up, holding out his arms.
"Finni, Hearts Embrace!" He declared, causing Finni to disappear into the mark. A golden crown appeared on his head before turning into a golden headpiece with a halo design and a fiery gem in the middle of his forehead as a golden light spread across his body, turning his outfit into a suit similar to his Anatis suit but it had a red upper torso with his sides, legs and arms colored in orange. His stomach area was light lemon color that changed into a bright yellow on his lower stomach and legs. There was gold trim around the edges and his boots were the same lemon yellow with a golden trim that resembled wings on the top of them. He gained soft silver gloves that had a finger loop around the middle finger with a gold ring. Around his ankles and his wrists were floating, golden rings and a belt that he could only really describe as a peplum belt. It had a gem like the one on his forehead in the middle and had fabric attached at the back that resembled feathers. The middle feather was a pastel blue, the next to were pastel green and pastel purple and the final two were pastel yellow and pastel pink. His hair turned brown with highlights that matched his tail and his eyes turned silver. From his back, two beautiful wings appeared. Their feathers were red on top, orange in the middle then the five pastel colors at the bottom. Across his eyes a red and orange mask appeared, resembling a bird and he gained a staff in his hand. It was made from brown wood and had gold orb in the middle with two gems. One sat where the wood met at the top and was an orange pearl and the other was another fiery gem in the middle of the golden orb. The golden light calmed down and Luka held out his hands, looking at them. "Wait... isn't this... the phoenix form we saw in the Lady Blanche timeline?"
"Indeed, it is," Khnurn's voice made him turn around. The other guardian was stood behind him. "Impressive, Luka,"
"Impressive?" He asked, walking over. "I'm guessing this means I passed your test too,"
"Yes, you did but that's not why I'm impressed," He answered before he gestures to Luka's new form. "You are the first to be able to do a spirit transformation... and one that represents all of us,"
"It does?" He asked. "Wait... hold on... spirit transformation? So Finni and I can turn into this?"
"Yes... do you feel different?" He asked, making Luka nod. "Do you know why?"
"I feel more then just the spirit of humanity and Finni feels more then the spirit of kindness..." He answered, closing his eyes and placing his hand over his heart. He could hear the songs of the world more clearer then he ever could. Slowly, it dawned on him what that mean. "This form... we're the spirit of hope in it, aren't we?"
"Yes," Khnurn confirmed. "And you earnt it. Hope is more then just a wish. It's putting your trust in the hands of your friends... it's holding true to your values and facing your fears... it's admitting your faults and overcoming the forces of darkness. It's the determination of doing what's right, having compassion for all and embracing all that makes us human. Burn bright, oh child of hope and may your flames never extinguish,"
Khnurn placed his hands together and bow, causing Luka to do the same before he disappeared, leaving Luka alone. Slowly, the spirit world faded away and he found himself in a room with a stone bed surrounded by feathers and ash. Lying on it was himself. He looked pale and rough but a blanket was draped over him and he was breathing lightly. He gently walked over and placed his hand on his physical one.
"Time to wake up..." He whispered to himself. He didn't know how much time had passed but that didn't matter. "This world still needs us,"
With that, his body glowed golden as did he before he disappeared. Slowly the light faded from his body, revealing he looked a bit more healthier and he slowly opened his eyes, revealing their color was now a silvery blue before they turned back to their normal blue. He glanced around the room and smiled lightly to himself before he closed his eyes again to rest. He still felt drained but he had to admit he felt so much more lighter then before. He let out a quiet sigh as he decided to rest a bit more but still it was nice to be back.
Hey all! So we're finally here and damn Truth is bigger then I expected so I have decided to split into two halves. Those who have seen my tumblr recently will know this already though ^^ but given how big this is writing wise, I thought it would be a wise choice in order to make it easier to write but also easier to read. After all, this half alone is 46 pages long!
Anyway as part of truth, I've addressed some stuff such as the American heroes, introducing a new guardian that my friend @naruwitch named and basically tying up some loose ends. I've also tried to make it clear that Luka's akumatization isn't caused by just one thing. It's multiple things including depression, guilt, events that are beyond his control ect. Hopefully that's clear in the story. Anyway, enjoy the read and the cliffhanger I've let it on evil laughter
"I'm sorry. I have to go but I will pass your words to Luka, Captain," Anatis stated, making her nod as Lady Noir frowned. His words had made her worry but at the least, the Captain was back to normal. She watched as he took out his yoyo and threw it to swing off but stopped for a moment and turned to Anarka one last time. "For the record, I think you're an amazing mother,"
With that, he swung away. Lady Noir sighed a little and turned back to the Captain.
"Would you like me to bring you back to the Liberty?" She asked, making the Captain shake her head. "Are you sure?"
"I am but thank you... for everything you do, Lady Noir. I know you and Anatis look out for my boy and I'm glad he has friends like you, Anatis, Marinette and the others," She states, making Lady Noir shake her head.
"Luka is an amazing boy and I don't think he's doing this to hurt anyone but in fact to protect everyone. He's so selfless and worries about how everyone else feels,"
"He's always being like that," The Captain confirms as Lady Noir's ring beeps. "I won't keep you, Lady Noir. Be safe,"
"I will," She confirmed as the Captain turned and walked towards the Seine. Lady Noir jumped up and bounced across the rooftops before landing on her balcony as she detransformed back into Marinette. She caught Plagg and climbed through her skylight, flopping down onto her bed as he dived into his stash of cheese. She looked up at the ceiling as she thought about what Anatis said about Luka and what Feng had told her. Her mind drifted to the spell the spirit guardians had mentioned. It had to be serious if they were willing to get involved. However, more than ever she was determined to cast it for Luka. She knew the risk but she was willing to take it. She suddenly felt herself being pulled backwards as her vision went black before she found herself back in the cave that she had met Feng in. He was sat with the other four.
"So we go with a potion?" Rene asked.
"I think casting would be the best way," Toutai stated, making Khnurn frown.
"An amulet is the most effective," He argued as Alpheus nodded. "We can engrave it with a protection rune,"
"Why don't we let Marinette pick?" Feng stated, looking over at her. The four other guardians looked at her and instantly smiled in a way that weirdly reminded her of Luka but she pushed that thought out of her head. She needed to keep her head in the game. "What do you think?"
"Uh well as a newbie to magic, I wouldn't know where to begin," She admits, rubbing her neck. "So what's the best for someone who's never done magic before?"
"Casting," They all said in union.
"Casting?"
"It's basically using words to cast a spell," Toutai explained as he held out his hand. "Like this... tsrubrats,"
A small star appeared in his hand and burst into a glittery mist that disappeared. Marinette gasped softly.
"We can use pretty much any command or word as long as we speak it backwards," Rene explained. "That is our style of basic magic,"
"But to use our more powerful magic, we have to activate our spirit eyes," Khnurn explained. Marinette noticed he had activated his own spirit eyes. "As you can see, I have mine active, allowing communication plus i always have them activate,"
"I see," She nods, making Alpheus snort. Khnurn hit him in the arm. "Eh?"
"He just found your words funny considering that I can't see normally," He explains. Instantly, Marinette felt terrible. "Don't feel bad. You didn't know and you didn't laugh unlike Mr. unsensitive there,"
"Technically, I'm laughing at myself," Alpheus pointed out, making Khnurn rolls his eyes. "Besides, your sense of humor is way darker than mine,"
"That is besides the point,"
"Alpheus, Khnurn, focus," Feng stated, taking a puff of his pipe and blowing out smoke. Both mutter an apology before going back to being serious. "Casting would be the easiest for you, Marinette but a casting spell is even more powerful if the caster can have contact with the intended recipient,"
"So I need to touch Luka to let the spell work?"
"To give it its best chance to work,"
"Best chance?" She questions. "Is there a chance it won't work?"
"That is correct," He answers. "Do you still want to try?"
"Yes!" She gasps. "I don't care how small the chance is, if it's still there then I'm willing to try,"
"Then listen closely," He instructs, making her nod. "When you awaken in your room, light a white candle and some sage incense,"
"What if I don't have those?"
"You'll find them by your sewing machine," Feng smiled mischievously. "Now light the candle and sage incense,"
"Then close your eyes and imagine holding the candle's light extending and covering you in a pure white light," Khnurn continued.
"Then imagine that aura turning into a ball of pure light and go find Luka," Alpheus states. "He'll be in his usual place at the Seine where the city sounds sing,"
She knew exactly where Alpheus met.
"Once you find him, take his hand in yours and imagine that ball of light transferring to him," Rene states. "Envision it surrounding him, protecting him and embracing him, showing him all the love that everyone feels for him. Gift him the light that he has lost,"
"Let him know you'll be there for him once you've transferred it to him when he's ready," Toutai said. "And once you return to your room, go back to the candle and speak the words that are in your heart before blowing out the candle,"
"That will complete the spell," Feng finishes. "Do you think you can do that?"
"Yes," She nods. It sounds quite simple really. "I can,"
"Good," Feng nods. "Oh and Marinette, you should know something else. There will be a sign that your spell worked,"
"What sign?"
"The Truth," He states, making her frown. What on earth did he mean by that? "If your spell works, The Truth will come and set Luka free,"
"The Truth will set Luka free?" She asks before she feels herself falling backwards as her vision blacked out again. For a moment, she saw a flash of a giant green eyeball before she was back in her room. She glanced around and saw the white candle and sage incense by her sewing machine with some matches next to it. She nodded and walked over to it, ready to get to work. She followed their instructions to the letter before she went to find Luka. He was exactly where Alpheus said he would be. She couldn't help but feel her heart ache as she saw him. He was sat by the water with his head in his arms as he sat there. She quickly took a seat next to him and leaned against him, hoping to show him she was there.
"I'm sorry," He whispered, looking at her. His eyes were full of tears but he was obviously holding his emotions back. Probably afraid of being akumatized but god that must be destroying him inside.
"Whatever it is, you don't need to be sorry," She states, gently taking his hand in hers. She imagined that ball of light transferring to him and engulfing him in that beautiful light, allowing him to feel the love he deserves to feel. "I don't know what you're going through but I'm here for you. We all are so when you're ready... Come to us and tell us the Truth ok?"
She wasn't sure why she said the Truth like that but it felt like the right words. He nodded and gently closed his eyes as he kept his hand in hers. They stayed like that for a bit longer before Marinette realized how late it was. She should complete the spell. She gently got up, slowly letting go of his hand.
"It's getting late so I'm gonna go home ok?" She states, hoping to get a reaction yet nothing. "I can stop at the liberty and let the captain know you're here if you want?"
He didn't answer again. She let out a little sigh unintentionally before deciding to let him have his space. She turned to walk away but he suddenly grabbed her hand, making her glance back. She looked at him as she waited for him to speak.
"Thank you for sitting with me," He whispered, smiling a little. It wasn't much but it made her certain the spell would work. She smiled back. "Do you want me to walk you home?"
That had surprised her. Not in a bad way but just that he had been too depressed to even get out of bed recently, let alone walk anywhere. She could barely contain her joy.
"That would be lovely," She answered as he stood up and took her hand in his. He walked her all the way to the bakery and even gave her a gentle kiss on the cheek before she went inside, waving at him as she did. He waved back and turned to head back. She rushed up to her room and quickly sat in front of the candle, closing her eyes as she searched for the words to complete the spell. "O stars above, protect my love every day as he dreams and as he plays. Keep him bright and safe as sound, guide him when he's feeling down. Let his heart fly free and let him return back to me,"
She opens her eyes and blows out the candle before feeling a shudder of energy. She also couldn't help but feel a little tired. Not a bad tired but the type that occurred after having a busy but eventful day. She yawned and picked up her phone, texting Luka a good night before she curled up in her bed. Plagg flew over and curled up next to her as she drifted into sleep. As she fell asleep, Plagg briefly glowed gold before it disappeared. A small smile appeared on his face before he closed his eyes as well.
~A few days later~
Su Han paced around the butterfly garden as Gabriel and Natalie stood there, waiting for him to speak. One of his cult members was giving them an update.
"All of the kwamis are suddenly able to fly around freely," He stated. "Even when their guardians order them back into their boxes,"
"It's Him," He growled. "He's growing more powerful the closer the ghost festival gets,"
"We have also felt a surge of new magic, centered around Paris,"
"That's because he's here! That boy who wields the ladybug is the damn mage reborn!" Su Han declared angrily. The cult member flinched at his raised voice. "I need to destroy him before he tips the balance back in his favor and reclaims his title!"
Gabriel looked over at Natalie, who was looking at Su Han with deep concern. Nooroo and Dusuu were hiding behind her as well. Currently, he wasn't even wearing the peacock miraculous but apparently, the mage's order even affected them. Surprisingly, he didn't mind. The two kwamis were too afraid of him to actually do anything anyway. Su Han turned to the cult member.
"What do the other guardians think of the sudden order?" He asks, crossing his arms.
"The loyal guardians think it was you who gave the Order but they are confused about the miracle boxes," He answered, making Su Han look at him with confusion too. He glanced to the side uncomfortably. "They've all become some sort of music box and none of the guardians can open them. It's got some of the less loyal guardians talking,"
Su Han tutted.
"And why haven't you completed your order?" He asked, making the assassin frown. "On the day of Assassin Bee's defeat, I gave you an order! Kill the child of the Beetle!"
Gabriel frowned deeply, hearing that but ultimately wasn't surprised. He knew Su Han would double-cross him and he would do the same. The Assassin looked to the side.
"Well?!" He snapped as a dark shadow filled the room and a cold, evil laugh echoed. It slid down the side of the walls, gathering into a corner as a young man not much older than Anatis himself, stepped out of the shadows. He was dressed in monk garb but it was stained with a black, ink-like substance that appeared like veins on the colors. His copper red hair seemed to glow in the darkness as did his red and black eyes. His skin was a light grey and his lips a dark grey. The Assassin instantly looked terrified and the kwamis hid in Natalie's hair, shaking a little. She stepped back from the boy.
"That's because I have been stopping them," The twisted monk declared, walking over and grabbing the Assassin by the throat. "Fear. How delicious,"
He let go of him and smirked as Su Han looked angry.
"How dare you interfere!" He snapped. "I want that boy-"
The monk suddenly turned into a huge snake and lurched at Su Han, causing him to stumble and fall as it slivered over to him. He crawled away from it in pure terror.
"Don't you dare talk to me like that!" It snarled, its voice powerful and deep. It even made Gabriel shiver but it was more in interest then fear. "I made you who you are! I helped you get power! Without me, you're nothing!"
"B-but, Simme, if we kill the mage-"
"I don't want to kill the mage! I want to destroy him from the inside! I want him to fall so badly into despair that he destroys himself and that goodie two shoes Finni!" He growled, turning back into his 'human' form. "And when he does, I will finally devour his ancient soul and plunge the world he loves so much into complete darkness and despair!"
"So you're actively stopping him from being killed?" Gabriel asked, stepping forward. Simme's head snaps towards him. "So you can corrupt him?"
"See? He gets it," Simme smirked at Su Han before walking over to Gabriel. "Naturally. Got something to say about it?"
"I'm just wondering how that's going," He replies, making Simme smirk.
"Well, the Mage isn't my current target actually. He's far too... stubborn to actually fall into despair himself by my usual tricks... but I've been very fortunate regardless," He explained, smirking. "See I found a light soul in Paris and driving that soul to despair and consuming his soul will be the key to the mage destroying himself. See, he'll blame himself for not being able to save the boy and for the balance being tipped which will then allow me to infect him with even more despair and he'll spiral even more, destroying himself in the process and thus i shall then consume his soul and the world will be trapped in pure darkness and despair for the rest of time!"
"And this boy... this light soul? You've infected him with despair?" Gabriel asked.
"Oh I was indeed," He smirked. "Thanks to you in fact,"
"Me?"
"Your little party," He answered, making Gabriel think back to the Diamond Dance. "I slipped into that dance, found that sweet soul and infected him with despair and then your plan to make him the black swan made it bloom like poison in his veins. He's being infected ever since,"
"Luka Couffaine... he's the pure soul you speak off," Gabriel stated. It made a lot of sense. He was a gentle and sweet boy and he recalled Adrien discussing with Felix and Kagami how to cheer him up plus that's why the Gang of Secrets and Lies got akumatized. All because Simme had infected Luka with despair. Gabriel would have felt bad about everything he had done to him and that was happening to him if he had a heart... but he saw it as a necessary evil. Another sacrifice to get his wife back. "Is that why he reacts so strangely to the akumas?"
Simme gave him a confused look.
"When I have tried to akumatize him, he is able to resist them and once they're rejected... they trigger fits... like he has epilepsy or something," He explains. "The only other person who the same reaction was my nephew Felix but he didn't reject the akuma,"
"Oh, that's even more interesting!" Simme grinned. He already knew that Luka was the mage but he didn't need them to know. "Seems like my pure boy is also a mage,"
"What?!" Both Su Han and Gabriel gasped.
"As is that other boy... Felix was it?" He asked, making Gabriel nod before he glanced towards Su Han. "Why are you surprised? Mr Agreste, I can understand but you shouldn't be,"
"What do you mean?" Gabriel asked. Could Luka truly be a mage and Felix too? Simme rolled his eyes.
"One of the effects of the Celestial Mage being in the world is mages," He answered, making the fashion designer frown. "Basically, his presence awakens the innate ability to use magic in some individuals and to be able to use it, they just need a spark to activate that latent ability,"
"So you're saying by trying to akumatize Luka, I awakened his own magic,"
"And that Felix child too," He answered, drawing attention away from Luka. "But an akuma isn't always going to awaken someone's magic. It's different for everyone or so that old coot Feng explains it that way,"
"Great! More mages!" Su Han gasped, clearly not putting two and two together. "Just what I need! This Luka... he must have been close to Anatis to cause the trigger of magic?"
"Luka is one of Anatis' allies," Gabriel confirmed. "So much that Anatis once trusted him with a miraculous when he had come close to defeat. If it wasn't for that boy, I would have captured Anatis, Lady Noir and all of the kwamis but nope! That boy is even more crafty and clever than Anatis! Not to mention, the resistance to akumas!"
Gabriel gritted his teeth annoyed.
"If I could just akumatize him then he would be the one to bring down Anatis! I know it!"
"Hm! Seems like you just have a grudge against the child because he bested you when you were so close to victory," Su Han stated. "I thought you'd be use to that by now,"
Gabriel glared at him as Natalie cleared her throat.
"Perhaps you should redirect your energy to the guardians of the miraculous for now, Guardian Su Han. You will need to do damage control to ensure the others don't catch on to the fact that you're not the true celestial guardian right?" She pointed out, making Su Han grit his teeth. As much as it pained him, he agreed with her plus it may be time to start looking into his back up plan, especially with the fact that Anatis has locked the boxes. When he and Cobra went back to their main temple, Cobra had began to glow like the other assassins had when Anatis had become guardian and his miraculous was forcefully called back to the box. It turned out the only reason why it hadn't happened in Paris was because he hadn't been close enough to the box the Cobra was from for the spell to activate. It had also happened to a number of other holders and now they were all locked out of the miracle boxes and he didn't have the true authority to undo it. He would have to activate the Calamitous completely if they couldn't get into the boxes. He had already test ran one of them but Anatis had claimed it. He would just have to reclaim it at some point but for now, he needed to continue to deal with the fallout of Anatis' becoming guardian. He'd have to worry about the Wasp Miraculous later. He took a deep breath and turned to Natalie.
"Yes, you are right," He answered. "For now, I will take my leave,"
He nods and leaves with the assassin. Simme, however, hung about.
"So you've being trying to akuma the child of light hm?" He asked, making Gabriel look at him with annoyance but he turned it with a grin full of sharp teeth. "You should try again,"
"You would encourage it but you did mention you had infected him with despair," He mumbled, the clogs in his head turning. "This time it could finally work,"
"Sir, is that a good idea?" Natalie asked, making him turn to her. She had heard about how demented Luka had looked when Scarlet Moth had managed to break through his defenses with the scarlet akumas. Adrien had told her. He had been one of the few students who had resisted the akuma and he had told her how scary the situation was, especially when he saw Luka fitting the way he did.
"Of course," He answered, making Simme smirk wickedly as he took out his phone. "And to make sure it works, we'll push him to the edge,"
He dialed a number and put it to his ear.
"Hello, Mr Rossi. My name is Gabriel Agreste... Yes, your daughter's boss... that's right," He smirked as Simme grinned even more and Natalie frowned. What was his plan? "I heard about your daughter's plight at school regarding the restraining order that young Luka Couffaine has against her,"
He paused for a second as Mr Rossi began to talk about how unfair it was that this 'nasty punk' had blamed his 'precious angel' for the things he had and how he had convinced even a court of law that he was the victim. Gabriel made a face of disgust as Mr Rossi briefly ranted about how boys can't be victims and how Luka should 'man up'. He rolled his eyes in annoyance and was tempted to call Mr Rossi an old fashioned idiot who viewed toxic masculinity as a good thing before hanging up and blacklisting him and his bratty daughter. However, Lila was too much of a useful tool to actually do so. He might disagree with how the Rossi family acted but not enough to actually cut them off.
"Ah how terrible and Lila is suffering I imagine?" He asked, knowing full well she wasn't but he would bet that the moment she was in her parents' sight, she would put on that mask, pull out the crocodile tears and make out that her day was so terrible at school. Especially to her father and that gullible man would buy it instantly. That's probably why he has repeatedly tried to get the restraining order removed. "Of course, you have my sympathies. In fact, I couldn't help but notice that it seems to be affecting her at work as well and we, at Gabriel, view all of our employees as family so I wanted to reach out and offer help. I would be more than happy to lend you my legal team,"
Mr Rossi began to thank Gabriel straight away.
"Of course,"
~The Liberty~
Luka sat on his bed with his eyes closed as he focused on his thoughts. Since making the choice to face the Truth head on, he's tried to remain calm so he had taken up meditation again. He knew it was going to happen but he needed time to tie up loose ends and create his plan. Luckily, the meditation was helping a little and Hawkmoth hadn't made any akumas recently so he hadn't needed to use Tikki. Currently, she still had hold of the earrings. He had instructed her to hide them but she said she shouldn't hide them yet in case Hawkmoth akumatized someone else first. Since she had a point, he agreed but on the condition that the moment he is possessed by an akuma, she hides them. She would know since she's been staying as close to him as she can. He took a deep breath as the smell of white sage surrounded him. He had chosen to light some incense for this particular session. He had already written the letter to Lady Noir and had given Sass the instruction to deliver it. He had also contacted Marianne about magic. Since she had Master Fu living with her, she had to take back her offer to teach him magic. Luckily, he had his past lives to teach but it wasn't really for him. He wanted to learn it from someone else so he would be able to guide Felix plus it would be nice to be able to get a different perspective other than his past lives. Regarding the lessons though, they both agreed that it was too risky plus she was based in London but she had given him the address of Paris' Acting Grand Mage aka The Swan Holder Atrarus. He was very surprised to find it was Felix' home address but he now had an idea of who Atrarus was. However, he would address that once he got past Truth. He wouldn't deny it though. Having a mentor again would be nice and Atrarus was a mage too. He had helped with the battle against Black Swan and Assassin Bee as well as Brumus and Lady Ombre. That had made him think about that battle too. Meeting Brumus had taught him some truths. Firstly, he wasn't alone and that hope was powerful. He had forgotten both of those when facing the Gang of Secrets and Lies but now that he had made the choice to face the Truth head on, he remembered them. He let out another breath. Now was the time to address some things. Sure, he had to deal with meeting the Acting Grand Mage after Truth but there were some things he needed to address. After all, he had been neglecting a lot of his work. Jessica, the holder of the Falcon Miraculous, had contacted him about a couple of things, including the return of a guardian and her miraculous being revoked by the box when he was named Guardian but he hadn't really messaged her back at all. He had briefly replied saying he would look into it when the guardian appeared but he hadn't. The combination of the Scarlet Moth attack, Lady Blanche, Simme, Issac, Bob and the trial as well as Black Swan, Assassin Bee, the loss of Dr Mila and Master Fu and his own depression, he had been too overwhelmed and distracted to do anything. He needed to address it and apologise to her. He opened his eyes and got off his bed, glancing at the Kwamis. They were all sat in the same position he was, breathing in softly and meditating. Though he was sure a few of them had fallen asleep. He gently cleared his voice, causing most of them to open their eyes and look at him. Though a few snoozed away.
"Kaalki, I'm going to need to borrow your power," He declared, making Kaalki fly up and nod. "I want to sort out some things before I get... you know. Is that ok?"
"Of course, Luka," Kaalki replied, making Luka nod before he took the musical miracle box off itself and turned the key, causing it to pop open with its compartments. He took out the horse miraculous and put them on before turning the key again, making the box lock. He put it back on the shelf.
"Ok, Sass, Tikki and Vernn. You're in charge until I return," Luka declared before he opened his drawers and took out a bag of apple flavored candies. They lasted longer than apple slices and Kaalki seemed to like them too. He put them in his pocket and tapped the glasses. "Kaalki, Full Gallop,"
He turned into Appalo before he held out his hand and summoned a circle of light, declaring voyage before he threw it. It opened up to a portal and he stepped through it into New York City. The portal closed and he called off the transformation before giving Kaalki one of the candies. He walked over to the edge of the skyscraper they were on and glanced down. He kind of wished he had Tikki with him so he could swing through the city. Despite that it had only been a couple of days, he missed the feeling of being Anatis.
"I'm ready," Kaalki declared, flying over to him. He smiled and nodded.
"Ok. Kaalki, Full Gallop," He declared, turning back into Appalo. He took out his horse shoe and took out the built-in phone. He put the horseshoe back on his back and texted Jessica before he moved over to the centre of the building and sat down. A few minutes later, she turned up as Sparrow and landed on the building as he stood up.
"Who are you?" She asked, crossing her arms. "I was expecting my friend Anatis but-"
"I am Anatis," He answered. "I'm just using the horse miraculous today,"
"Oh..." She answered but he frowned. He could hear she was annoyed through her song. He didn't blame her for one second. He hadn't been a very good friend to her or anyone in fact. "Well... it's nice for you to finally get in contact,"
"I'm sorry," He stared, making her feel surprised. She was expecting excuses, not an apology. "I'm so sorry I haven't been here, Falcon. I should have been a better friend and ally. I should have made an effort and I failed. I'm sorry,"
He felt tears pricking his eyes before they began to fall as she seemed to notice.
"Whoa, hey it's ok, Anatis.. uh..." She gasped, moving over. "Please don't cry. You're a great friend,"
"I'm n-not," He whispered, wiping his eyes. "I should have come here sooner and helped you work out what to do with this new guardian and the miraculous but I got too consumed by my own life and I couldn't..."
"Hey, it's ok," She reassured, gently putting her hand on his shoulder. "You're here now so that's all that matters to me,"
"It's my fault, Falcon," He whispered, making her frown. "I'm the reason why you can't get your miraculous right now,"
"What do you mean?" She asked, not in a judgmental way but out of genuine curiosity and concern. She had viewed Anatis as powerful and untouchable. Nothing seemed to bother him when they met and he was brave enough to challenge her mother's view and even changed it but the boy before her is a shadow of the hero she had met. He was broken. "Anatis, what happened to you?"
He slowly looked up at her and even though she couldn't really see his eyes, she could see the tears rolling down his face.
"Look, whatever happened, you can tell me ok? We're friends and friends help each other," She declared, rubbing his arm. He nodded and wiped away his tears before he sat down. She sat next to him and slowly he began to speak. He told her about everything as once he began to speak about it, he couldn't stop. He told her about Feast and how he unintentionally unleashed an ancient evil into the world and that he had restored the miraculous temple. That explained why the guardian had turned up then he explained everything else and the more she listened, the more her heart ached and she understood why he hadn't been in contact. It was one thing after another. Both in his personal life and his hero life. Firstly, he witnessed the almost end of the world and had to fight Lady Noire akumatized and couldn't really tell anyone about it. He told her that he had told Lady Noir a little bit about it but had held so much back out of fear of driving her into becoming Lady Blanche again. Then he had been repeatedly targeted by hawkmoth in his civilian life, resulting in hospitalization and trauma then he had to deal with a court case that involved his abusive step father. She had no idea he had been through such a thing but that wasn't even the worst. He described how the ancient evil was influencing people and turning them into akumas and how one of his friends took an akuma and an amok in his place, only to be hospitalized as well. He then told her how he lost his mentors. One was murdered and the other gave up his memories so Hawkmoth wouldn't get the miraculous. She put her hand over his mouth as he explained that. It was obvious that he blamed himself. "Jeez, Anatis... I'm so sorry,"
"I-its not your fault..." He muttered, looking down. She could tell there was more. "That ancient evil I said about... it's an evil spirit born from the cruelty of humans... and it wants to eat my soul,"
"Oh god," She gasped. "Why?"
"I'm a pure soul," He answered before explaining what it was. She frowned as she listened. "And if he consumes a pure soul, the balance will be tipped and our world will be consumed by full darkness and wickedness. So it infected me with despair and has been trying to drive me into willingly giving it my soul.. and just to really make things worse, Hawkmoth just won't leave me or my family alone! Most of my friends were akumatized minus two and then as if that wasn't bad enough, he akumatized my mother and I made her feel like she is a terrible mother but that's not true! I'm the terrible one! Not her!"
He hid his face in his knees as he shook, crying. Sparrow gently placed her hand on his back. All her anger was gone. How could she be angry at him? He had gone through more than anyone should have gone through. He slowly lifted his head and wiped his face again.
"I can't even cry like this at home because Hawkmoth just won't leave me alone!" He cried out, making her pull him in her arms. He wrapped his arms around her but she could feel the hesitation in his movements. She suspected that he didn't intend to speak about any of this but it was clear he needed it. Slowly, he finally calmed down and pulled away. "Sorry..."
"It's fine," She answered. "But have you not talked to Lady Noire about this?"
"I-I've only told her so much but i can't tell her everything, especially with my civilian life," He explained as he hugged his knees. "Besides, I don't want to be a burden to her or to you... or anyone,"
"You're not a burden," She reassured but he sighed.
"I came here to try and help you but all I've done is cried on you and made excuses,"
"Anatis... I don't think those are excuses but legit reasons. You've gone through so much recently," She answered, making him frown. He knew she had a point. They sat there in silence for a few minutes before Sparrow looked up at the sky. "So the miracle box... it locked because you became guardian?"
"Yeah," He nodded, wondering how to explain it. "When Master Fu passed on his role as guardian to me, it didn't just make me the guardian of his box but restored a good amount of my authority as celestial guardian,"
"Celestial guardian?" She asked, making him nod.
"It's a long story but to sum it up... I'm the recent life of the man who made the miraculous," He answered, making her blink. Anatis was the recent life of the person who had created the miraculous? Damn, that's crazy. "Anyway, I assume your miraculous went back into its box about a week or so ago,"
"Yeah, the Guardian Mau Tau is locked out of the box," She explained, making him frown. "If you want, I can call him here so you can meet him?"
"Yes. I think that's a good idea," He nodded, wiping away his tears. She nodded and took out her phone and dialed a number. It rang for a few minutes.
"Hello?" A male voice answered. "Falcon? Are you ok?"
"Yes, Guardian. I actually am calling on behalf of a friend who wishes to meet you," She explained, making him ask who. "He can help us with the box,"
"... I'll be there in a few minutes," He answered before he hung up. Not even ten minutes later, an older man dressed in the same monk garb as Su Han jumped up on the building. He had long gray hair and bushy eyebrows. He had a mole on his face as well. His jaw was defined and his nose was large but while he looked stern, there was also a sense of kindness. In his arm was a simple wooden box with a silver key in a lock. Appalo got up and bowed towards him, causing the guardian to respond in kind. "I am Guardian Mau Tau and you are?"
"Anatis, the holder of the ladybug miraculous and..." He pauses as he sees the kwamis of the native box peeking out. "The kwamis can leave the box?"
"Yes. It happened three nights ago. The same thing has occurred to all boxes in the order's care," He answered, making Appalo rub the back of his neck. "You know something about this?"
"Yes," He answered. "I... I gave them permission to do so,"
"You gave them permission?" He questioned before he narrowed his eyes. "Just who are you really? And I don't mean your hero name,"
Appalo nodded before he turned to Sparrow.
"Sparrow... could you give us some privacy for a few minutes?" He asked, making her nod before she walked over to the other side of the building and turned her back to them. "Kaalki, Dismount,"
He turned back into Luka before he took off the glasses and took a deep breath. He didn't know if this would work.
"Feng... Khnurn... Alpheus... Rene... Toutai... lend me your energy," He whispered, causing the guardian to gasp in shock. He felt their energies engulf him before he opened his eyes, showing them as silver. Instantly, Mau Tau knelt before him.
"Celestial Guardian... you have returned," He declared, bowing his head before he lifted his head. "I knew that pretender Su Han wasn't the true guardian. I knew Toutai would not have named him that,"
"You knew Toutai?" He asked, making him nod.
"I was the same generation of trainee guardians as Toutai, Su Han and Hua Mulan," He answered. "I was never truly close with them in the sense of friendship but Toutai had hand-picked me as guardian of the native box and I also tried to keep his teachings alive, even when Su Han tried to erase them. I tried to defend the children under his so-called care. He intended to banish me and strip me of my title but before he could, that sentimonster attacked and ate us all. I managed to get his apprentice out of the temple before it could consume him but it consumed me. However, after the temple was restored, I grabbed my box and left before Su Han could do anything. I intended to take back the Falcon miraculous and hide at the Antarctic temple but the young hero made me change my mind and stay here. Su Han did briefly try to reclaim my box but Majestia and Knightowl scared him off,"
"The Antarctic temple?" Luka asked. Mau Tau's song spoke of honesty and regret and Luka found his gut told him he could be trusted and was telling the truth.
"Yes, it's an ancient site and said to be built by Hao Feng himself. Not as a base of operations but as a safe haven," He answered, making Luka think. A safe haven? Why would Feng need a safe haven? "But apparently, he never used it himself. In fact, none of the celestial guardians have used it,"
"Even Su Han?"
"Su Han declared it as a pointless site and refused to send anyone to it," He answered, making Luka frown. "It's probably in disarray,"
"I see," Luka muttered as he thought about it. "A safe haven..."
"Kāimíng yī?" Mau Tau asked, making Luka blink and look at him. He didn't expect him to use the same title Fu had. He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. "Forgive me if this is not my place but you look stressed,"
"Mau Tau, what do you know about Simme?" Luka asked, making the guardian go pale as his eyes widened in fear. He had obviously heard of the spirit at the least. Maybe had even met him. "Have you seen him?"
"I have," He answered, frowning. "Within the belly of that hungry sentimonster, I came to realize a terrible truth. Simme was active within the order and Su Han is working with him,"
"And how does that make you feel?" Luka asked. He needed to know if he could trust Mau Tau. Currently, his music was calm and it reminded Luka of the Bear Renling Xiong Xiong but as Mau Tau thought about how he felt about Simme, his music changed. Fear began to be the most played note. However, Luka needed to know if he would be honest about it.
"I... I felt afraid," He admitted as Luka listened even more. "That is part of the reason why I grabbed my box and left but I can promise you this, Kāimíng yī. I am not on Su Han's side,"
Luka looked at him, searching for any signs of deceit in his expression and heart song but let out a sigh of relief before he held out his hand, making Mau Tau look confused.
"Your miracle box please," He states, making Mau Tau slowly hand it to him. Luka examined the now musical box with interest before he gently taps it. "Mind coming out? I want to ask you some questions,"
One of the Kwamis poked their heads out before all of them flew out. They looked at each other with fear and uncertainty before they all nodded and Liiri flew forward.
"Uh since I've had the most contact with humans in recent years, I will act as the voice of the Native Kwamis," He declared, making Luka chuckle a little. "So... Do we need to be concerned?"
"No," Luka smiled reassuringly. "I just want to know your thoughts on Mau Tau as your guardian,"
Liiri looked surprised before he turned back to the others and they whispered to each other in hushed voices before Liiri turned back.
"All of us agree that he is the best guardian. He's fair to us, gives us treats and isn't cruel," He explained. "He also protected the kwamis that got caught up in the Sentimonster's belly,"
"So you all would be happy to continue with him as your guardian?" Luka asked, making all the kwamis nod. "Thank you. You can go back in your box if you want,"
He didn't wait for them to go into the box as he looked at Mau Tau.
"The kwamis speak highly of you and your heartsong has been honest from the beginning," He replied, walking over to him. "And I know Jessica trusts you as well... which is why I have decided to allow you to remain the guardian of the Native box,"
He gently places the box back into his hand.
"Mau Tau, I trust the role of guardian for the Native box to you," He declared, causing the box to glow gold before Mau Tau also glowed gold. "From now on, you can access the miraculous within and look after the Kwamis. You will be kind to them and look after them. You will also guide any current or future heroes and will only give miraculous to those who are worthy and for the greater good. If you ever fall to corruption, turn against myself and your heroes or harm the kwamis, the box will lock you out of it and return itself to me. You will lose your role as guardian. Is that understood?"
"Yes," He replied, bowing as Luka turned back to Appalo, causing Sparrow to come back over. "You have my word, Kāimíng yī and if you need anything, I will do my best to help you,"
Appalo paused for a moment before he turned to both of them.
"There is something I need your help with,"
~Later That Evening in Shanghai~
A portal opened up in the Dragon's cave before Appalo stepped out. His glasses beeped before he turned back into Luka and caught Kaalki. He reached into his pocket and took out an apple candy before he gave it to Kaalki and took off his glasses. The little kwami took it and began to eat it as Luka gently placed her on his shoulder as he walked farther into the cave.
"Meishi?" He called out before a deep growl echoed and a full size lion spirit stepped out.
"Who dares enter my cave?" He growled before his eyes landed on Luka before his expression became more friendly. "Móshù zhīzǐ, you have returned,"
"You recognize me even though I'm not Anatis right now?" Luka asked, amazed. Meishi glowed and turned back into his small form before flying over.
"Of course," He nodded. "So what can this old spirit do for you?"
"I wanted some advice," He admits, sitting down as Meishi settled into his hands. "I have an upcoming battle and I'm... I'm scared, Meishi. There's a chance I will lose myself and I don't know how to prevent that. I was hoping you could give me some advice,"
"It sounds like to me you need to speak the spirit of Valor," Meishi stated, making Luka blink. "Valor is great courage when facing danger and this battle you speak of sounds like it is going to be very dangerous so if I were you, I'd talk to her,"
"Where can I find her?"
"In your hometown, Móshù zhīzǐ," Meishi answered. "Where the dead rest,"
The catacombs then. Luka let out a nod and stood up as Meishi flew up.
"Kaalki, are you ready?" He asked, making her nod before he put the glasses back on before he tapped them. "Kaalki, Full Gallop,"
He turned back into Appalo before he held out his hand and summoned a circle of light.
"Voyage!" He declared before throwing it, causing a portal to the catacombs to open. He turned to Meishi. "Thank you for listening to me, Meishi. I appreciate it.."
He turned back to the portal before he stopped for a moment.
"Tell Fei I say hi please," He smiled weakly, causing Meishi to nod before he stepped through. The portal closed behind him and he glanced around as his 'horse' vision lit up to allow him to see a bit better in the dark area. He walked over to an old torch and touched it, closing his eyes. "Alpheus, lend me your power,"
He felt a spark of magic flow through him before he clicked his fingers, causing the torch to set on fire. He picked it up and glanced around, noticing spirit trails before he began to follow them deeper into the catacombs. As he walked, his glasses beeped and he turned back into Luka, causing him to catch Kaalki again. He gently put her on his shoulder again and reached into his pocket for another apple candy.
"This will be our last trip," He explained, making her nod as he handed her the candy before they continued to walk as they followed the spirit trails. They came to an old looking door before Luka held out his hand. "Kcolnu,"
The lock on the door clicked and he pushed it open, walking into the circular room. Inside the room was an altar with a cross on and a statue of a woman kneeling in front of it. This place used to be a church. He looked around, noticing a baptism well that had dried up and some broken statues of saints. He walked over to the statue of the woman, which happened to be where the spirit trails converse on. He walked around it, seeing she was holding a sword and around her neck was a single golden feather. He knelt down and gently touched it, causing his head to pulse a little as he saw images of the woman and her comrades, fighting and defending Paris with several miraculous including the ladybug and black cat miraculous. In the images, he also saw Sir Rene with her.
"Jeanne D'arc," He whispered, letting go of the feather and gently placing his hand on the statue. As soon as he did, the statue began to glow golden before she suddenly stood up and stepped away from the statue.
"You called?" She answered, making him blink before she looked at him. "You are the child Rene told me about. The child who defends Paris,"
"You know me?" He asked, surprised but he recalled his distant memory telling her to watch over his future lives. She nodded as she looked at him. "I remember... it was when I was dying for the fourth time..."
"You recall your past lives?" She asked, a little amazed.
"Sometimes," He admitted. "It's like distant memories but that's not why I'm here. You're the spirit of Valour, aren't you?"
"Yes, Rene... I mean you... granted me the role as a way to guide your future lives..."
"That's not why we did it," He answered, making her frown before he placed his hand on his heart. "Guilt. Rene blamed himself for your death and he wanted to grant you a chance to 'live' but we are not necromancers nor do we have access to life magic so Rene used his magic to make an amulet that allowed you to be a spirit so you could roam freely in the world without fearing of dying,"
"Typical Rene," She smiled, gently touching the feather around her neck. "I never blamed him for it was never his fault but enough of the past. You seeked me out, child. What is it you need?"
He paused before he turned to the cross.
"Simme is after me," He stated, making her frown. "And I have to face the Truth but I'm afraid. If I don't face the Truth and keep resisting the akumas, Simme will win and devour my soul but if I let myself become an akuma, there's a chance I'll lose myself,"
He paused and looked at her, making her frown. It was hard to see him as an ancient mage or spirit when he looked so young and vulnerable.
"I know what I have to do but I'm scared," He stated. She walked over to him and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. He hugged back before she gently pulled away.
"I understand your fear," She stated, making him look at her. "I too was afraid when I had to face my fate but you must remember, young one, that you are not alone. You have people who care about you,"
"How do I face this battle?" He asked, making her kneel in front of him. "What if I fail and Simme wins?"
"Listen to me. You will not fail. No matter what Simme whispers to you. He may tell you you're weak but you are not. Being weak is being a coward and you are not that," She answered. "You are brave, kind and gentle and nothing will ever change that. Regardless, if you find you're losing yourself then trust in those who care about you to bring you back. I will be there to bring you back to the light and I know I won't be the only one,"
He could feel the sincerity in her voice and in her heartsong. She was being truthful with him and she was right. If he did begin to lose himself then he could trust her and his friends to bring him back. Lady Noir would go to hell and back to save him. Juleka, Rose and Ivan would fight Hawkmoth himself to save him. His mother would never give up on him. Felix, Adrien and Kagami would walk the earth to find him again. Nino, Kim and Max would challenge anyone to fight for him. Chloe and Sabrina would fight God to bring him back... and Finni, Rene, Alpheus, Khnurn, Toutai and Feng would traverse time itself to save and help him. He was not facing this battle alone and he was never going to be. That was one of his truths. He was not alone.
"Thank you, Jeanne," He smiled, looking at her. She smiled back. "I think I have a little bit more preparation to do but thank you... I feel a little better,"
"Well, young one, if you need my help, you just need to ask," Jeanne replied.
"Well, I may need a hand with some spiritual healing after this whole thing," He mentioned before looking at her. "Think you could help me with that?"
"I can certainly try," She declared, making him smile in relief. With that, he turned back into his Appalo form and headed back to his room on the Liberty. He dropped his transformation and caught Kaalki as the other kwamis looked over at him. He thanked her for her help before placing her gently on the table and going into the kitchen. No one was around so he just made a sandwich for himself and cut up a fresh apple for her before returning to his room. He sat down at his desk and began to write a letter to Lady Noire to explain his sudden disappearance. "Tikki?"
"Yes, Luka," She answered.
"Would you be ok with Juleka being your holder temporarily? I said that you should bring them to her if I'm in hospital and an akuma appears but I want to know if you're actually ok with her taking over my duty temporarily," He explained, making her look at him with a thoughtful expression before she nodded. "Ok, I'll write a letter for Juleka to explain,"
She nodded as he continued and soon the letters were done. He runs his fingers through his hair before he turns to the kwamis.
"Ok, Tikki, I'll put the letter in here and if and when it happens, you bring both the letter and your miraculous to her," He explained, making her nod before he turned to the kwamis of the Western Miracle box. "I've written three other letters. One for Lady Noir, one for Alix and one for Atratus. Sass, as I mentioned earlier, I want you to deliver the letter to Lady Noir but it will be after I've been deakumatized. It will explain what will happen to me as Luka and why Anatis won't be around for a little bit,"
"Of course, Luka, you can rely on me,"
"I know," Luka smiled before turning to Bennu. "I want you to deliver the letter for Atratus and I want you to deliver it tonight. I'm sure he's been having dreams about this and I want to reassure him that this is the best outcome. I also want you to take the other kwamis who don't have a holder right now with you. I've put in the letter that I need him to protect them from Su Han, Hawkmoth and my akumatized self. I'm not too worried about the actual boxes as only I can open them but also I'll be doing a protection and camouflage spell tonight before I go to sleep,"
"Ok. Am I allowed to bring my miraculous with me?"
"Yes. That way, Felix can transform straight away if he needs to," Luka agreed, making Bennu nod. "Vernn, since Alix is most familiar with Sir Rene from my past lives, I'll be getting you to deliver the letter for her if that's ok?"
"Of course, my liege!"
"I will also allow you to bring your miraculous with you so you can go straight to Renee afterwards," He answered. "In fact, all active kwamis can take their miraculous to their current holders so everyone is ready to deal with me,"
"You've really put a lot of thought into this," A kwami that resembled a firefly stated. Luka recalled that their name was Luzz and their concept was summer. "We're fortunate to have a kind and understanding guardian,"
"Thank you, Luzz but what I'm doing is just my job and making sure you're all ok," He explains, making Luzz buzz happily that he knows his name. "I want to make sure you're all safe and that my friends are well equipped to save me,"
"You trust them to do so?" Penni asked, making Luka nod.
"Of course," He answered. "I trust all my friends including all of you,"
"W-We're your friends?" Stingg asked shyly. Luka gave them a soft look.
"Of course," He smiled softly. "All you are my friends. I love and trust all of you,"
"Luka..." Tikki whispered, feeling her heart touched by his heartfelt words and apparently she wasn't the only one. All of the kwamis felt loved and special. Not just that but his words reminded them of Feng when he was a young boy. If there was ever any doubt that he was Feng's recent life, it was completely dispelled just from those words alone.
"Right. Let's continue with the plan,"
~The Next Morning~
When Luka woke up the next morning, he frowned to himself as his room seemed empty without the kwamis. Tikki was probably near by but he had managed to convince her to still keep her distance. He sighed but got up regardless. After all, he had sent them on their way to protect them and to ensure that the past Anatis didn't need to grab any miraculous. He also didn't know how his akumatized self was going to react. For all he knew he may try and go after the kwamis. What if he blamed them for his akumatization? Or what if he tries to use all the miraculous at once? He gripped his head at the very thought of a miraculous powered spirit-mage that was also akumatized. It had already being a struggle against Miraclonzier so he dreaded to think what it would be like against a miraculous powered supervillain with access to magic. Especially if it was him. He tried to think back to what he had experienced as the past Anatis who fought against Truth. He didn't recall Truth seeking out another miraculous. Like Yan Woshi, Truth seemed hyperfixstated on his goal of revealing the truth and punishing those he deemed wicked. It seems that even as a crazed akuma he still had some sort of sense of justice... even if it was twisted. He slipped his slippers on and quickly when the bathroom, cleaning his hands before he went into the kitchen. Anarka was sat, reading a letter and looking stressed.
"Ma?" He asked, making her look up. She quickly put a smile on but he could tell by her song she was worried. "What's wrong?"
She let out a sigh and took a moment to work out what to say.
"It's the restraining order we have against that Lila Rossi girl," She stated, making his heart fill with dread. "Her new lawyers have challenged it again, stating misconduct within the court. Their argument is that the court itself has mistreated the restraining order by treating it as a permanent one when it was only temporary and if we want to apply for permanent one, we have to make a new case,"
"But don't her lawyers have to apply for its removal and we have to do a court date to determine if it should be lifted?" He asked. That's what they did last time her lawyers tried to get it removed. It didn't work but his gut was telling him that it wasn't the case this time and judging by his ma's expression, his gut was right. "Ma?"
"A judge already signed off to be lifted," She frowned deeply before running her fingers through her hair. "It's not how it's supposed to work but given who the new lawyers actually belong to... I suspect the judge may received a nice, fat check,"
"You think that Lila and her family brought the judge?" He asked, frowning. He wouldn't put it past her or her father to do so. "Wait... you said new lawyers..."
"Yes. Mr Agreste seems to have provided his legal team to help her," She explained, making him look at her with a mix of shock and horror.
"Gabriel Agreste lent her his team?" He gasped in shock but at the same time, he wasn't surprised. He had suspected Agreste of being Hawkmoth or one of his allies for ages and this seemed to confirm it. No one in their right mind would lend a legal team to a girl like that, especially after she had been called out by the city's respected hero unless they were working with Hawkmoth. His mother nodded, making him sit down. "Why would he do that?"
"I don't know, lad," She sighed before she gently took his hand in hers. "But don't you worry. I'll call Jagged and we'll get this sorted ok?"
"I... I know," He nodded, frowning. "... Could I go to school today?"
"Are you sure? She'll probably be there," She stated, making him nod.
"I know but I really miss my friends and I think it would do me good, even if she's there," He answered, making her nod.
"Then of course, you can but if it feels too much or she tries anything, you go straight to Mr Damocles and report her. And if he doesn't do anything, you come right back here ok?" She stated, making him nod in agreement. She gives him a smile before letting go of his hand. He finished his breakfast before going to get ready for school. He looked over at the miracle boxes and sighed.
"The sooner this happens, the quicker I can get back to normal," He mumbles before he slipped on his shoes and grabbed his back. He caught up with Juleka, who looked at him with surprise. "I'm going to school today,"
"Are you ok with that?" She asked, making him nod.
"It was my idea," He answered as he walked with her. "I can't keep hiding in my room right?"
"Well, if it gets too much, no one will judge you going back home,"
"Thanks, Jules," He smiled a little. "Oh you should know. The restraining order against Lila has been dropped. Ma's trying to get it sorted out but she might not be able to,"
"Well, if she tries to come near you, I'm punching her again,"
"Ah she'll probably try to use that as "proof" that she's the victim," He pointed out, making Juleka frown. He had a point unfortunately. "I'll just do my best to avoid her and shut her down before she can start anything,"
Juleka nodded as they arrived in front of the school where some of their friends were waiting. As soon as they all saw Luka, they flocked to him. Rose hugged him and Ivan patted his arm happily. Marinette however wasn't there yet and neither were Adrien, Kagami or Felix.
"We're gonna head into the canteen. Rose wants to get a drink," Juleka mumbled, making him nod. "Want to join us?"
"I'm alright," He answered, taking out his phone and sending a text. "I'm going to wait for Marinette,"
"Ok," Juleka nodded before her, Rose and Ivan headed inside. Luka took a seat on the wall as he waited. It felt weird not having Tikki pop her head out but he only had to deal with it for a short amount of time plus he could sense her nearby, keeping to their deal of staying far enough to stay safe and hidden but close enough to give him the earrings if anyone else gets akumatized. He glanced over and saw her hiding in the flower bush. He went to smile but it turned to a frown as he saw Lila getting out of a car and waving to her father. As soon as she saw him, she smirked wickedly at him before walking towards the entrance. As soon as her father had driven off though, she made a beeline for him.
"I'm surprised you even bothered to show your face today," She answered, her smirk was clear and triumphant. Like she had won. "Anyway, your stupid little 'restraining order' has been removed, meaning I no longer have to keep my distance from you and believe me when I say you're gonna wish you stayed at home. In fact, you're gonna wish you had taken me up on the offer to be my friend because I am going to make your life a living hell!"
Before she could say anything else, she was suddenly pulled back by Kagami and knocked to the ground as Kagami's fist met her face. Lila let out a dramatic gasp as she looked up at her.
"Y-you'll regret that!" She gasped, getting up and rushing inside as Adrien and Felix came over.
"Are you ok, Luka?" Kagami asked, making him nod. "Why was she near you?"
He sighed and explained about the restraining order being lifted and that his ma is being forced to reapply for it and resubmit evidence, all thanks to Gabriel giving her access to his legal team. Kagami looked shocked, Felix rolled his eyes and Adrien looked guilty.
"I'm so sorry, Luka. I found out this morning from Lila at our photoshoot but father refused to listen to me when I tried to tell him it was a bad idea," He stated, frowning. "He said it was to improve her work effect and that Gabriel looks after its employees,"
"It's ok, Adrien," Luka replied. "You're not your father and you're my friend so don't worry ok? I'm not angry at you,"
He looked at Kagami.
"Thanks for standing up for me, Kagami,"
"Well, she'll probably try to use it as a way to make all of our lives worse but I couldn't let her talk to you like that," She replied, making him smile a little. "Anyway, me and Adrien are about to have a training match and Felix agreed to be the ref. Would you like to join us?"
"I'm waiting for Marinette," Luka replied, making the three of them nod. "Have fun though,"
"We will," Adrien grinned as Kagami nodded.
"See you in class, Luka," Felix smiled before he turned to them two. "I hope you realize I'm not easy to impress,"
The three of them walked off, leaving Luka alone again but a few moments later, he heard his name being yelled. He looked in the direction of the voice and smiled as Marinette rushed over to him. However, a bus turned and headed right towards her, making him jump up in fear.
"Tikki! Spots on!" He declared and of course nothing happened as Tikki nor her miraculous was there... even though she had been. He looked to the bush she had been in but she was gone. However, Marinette was about to get hurt so he rushed over as people yelled out in shock. Marinette's eyes went wide as the bus driver tried to pull the brakes but before it could hit her, the scene suddenly changed and he was back sitting on the wall, breathing in heavily as the shadows moved around him and Simme's laugh echoed. It wasn't real. It had been a cruel illusion from Simme. "Leave me alone,"
Simme laughed evilly as he felt the shadows wrap around him.
"Today's the day you give into me but as a parting gift, I'll let you enjoy your last moments of peace alone," He laughed, his voice stronger than ever before the shadows melted away as the real Marinette called out to him and ran over.
"Luka! You're... Luka?" She gasped, seeing his heavy breathing and the fear in his eyes. She gently sat next to him and took his hand in hers. The feeling of Simme and his evil began to disappear as she touched him, her spell reacting to her touch. "Hey, it's ok. You're ok,"
"S-sorry," He whispered, looking at her before he gave her a weak smile. "Not quite the return I imagined,"
"It's ok," She replied, moving her arms around him. He returned the hug, burying his face into her shoulder. They stayed like that for a while before he gently pulled away, noticing Tikki in the bush. He felt a little better knowing both her and Marinette were there and ok. "I brought croissants?"
He smiled as she took them out and handed him one. He bit into it and smiled even more. They were the best tasting croissants he had in a while. Freshly baked, slightly sweet and melt in the mouth.
"I helped Mama and Papa make them,"
"They're delicious," He grinned, finishing it off and wiping his mouth. "Thanks, Melody,"
"You're welcome, Lu," She giggled, slowly eating hers. He sighed though. "What's on your mind?"
"A lot," He admitted. "But mostly legal trouble,"
She frowned at that so he explained. Her jaw dropped as he told her about the restraining order and how Lila got it removed.
"Mr Ageste lent her his legal team?!" She gasped, wondering what the fashion designer was thinking as Luka nodded. "But everyone knows she's a liar! Anatis himself called her out on multiple occasions!"
"I know," He sighed. "Adrien mentioned that it's because he's trying to 'improve her work effective'. He said he tried to tell his father that it was a bad idea..."
"But Mr Agreste refused to listen?" Marinette asked, making Luka nod. "Typical Agreste... but still he knows she's a liar and surely he knows that this might affect you and make you vulnerable to Hawkmoth,"
"I don't think he cares," He answered, frowning. He couldn't tell her that he thought Gabriel might be working for Hawkmoth or even be Hawkmoth himself. She might work out he was Anatis and last time she found out, it led to Lady Noire being akumatized but he could mention it. "Maybe Anatis is right,"
"What do you mean?" She asked, looking at him.
"When he was making his list of suspects, he wanted my opinion on it," He explained. Technically it wasn't a lie. He did review it as Luka. "He suspects that Mr Agreste may be linked to Hawkmoth,"
"And what do you think?" Marinette asked. Luka frowned a little.
"I think it's possible," He answered, wondering how she would react. He looked at him and saw her making a thoughtful expression. "Melody?"
"I think you might be right," She answered, making him blink. "If I could see anyone being Hawkmoth then it would probably be Mr Agreste. He has the most motive in the city,"
"That's what Anatis thinks too. He says Mr Agreste has the most motive and resources to be able to do it," He answered before he smiled softly and gently nudged her arm with his. "Guess creative minds think a little,"
She giggled softly before she went serious.
"We don't tell Adrien that we suspect his father right?" She asked, making Luka frown before he nodded in agreement.
"For now, we keep it to ourselves but if he asks... let's be honest with him," He answered, making Marinette nod.
"I think that's a good idea," She agreed before the bell rang. "Time to class... will you be going to class?"
"I want to," He nodded, getting up and walking up the stairs with her. "Ma would probably cry if I said this but I missed school,"
Marinette chuckled a little, making Luka smile a little. When they came to the staircase that led to Marinette's classroom, he gave her a soft kiss on the cheek and waved as she went up to her class room before he turned to head to his but as soon as he did, a horrible and heavy feeling overcame him. Simme was back. The hair on the back of his neck stood up as he felt someone move behind him. He felt multiple hands grab him but then a hiss echoed and they pulled away. The smell of burning flesh surrounded him and made him feel sick.
"Oh would you look at that? My skin has burnt," Simme answered, walking into Luka's sight in his "human" form. He was holding his hand up that showed burn marks on it. "Finni is starting to wake up again,"
He blinked for a moment before he grinned and showed far too many sharp fangs.
"Oh well! It's not like that will make a difference," He smirked as his hand healed. "By the end of the day, you'll willingly give your soul to me,"
"That's not going to happen," Luka stated, calmly. Simme laughed and panted his cheek. A small amount of smoke rose from it as his skin burnt a little.
"You know I like your moxy, kid," He stated in a sarcastic tone before he licked his fangs with an elongated, forked tone. "It makes your soul all that more appealing,"
He stepped forward and roughly grabbed his arm, ignoring that his skin was burning.
"I'm going to take my time devouring you," He growled, making Luka try to pull away but his grip tightened as he laughed. "Look at you! So afraid! You may try to put on a brave face but you're terrified. Wanna know how I know?"
Simme leaned in as his facial features became more snake like.
"I can smell your fear!" He hissed before his jaw unhinged and he went to bite but before he could, Luka pulled his arm free and jumped back.
"Thgil!" He declared, causing a blast of light to appear from his hand. Simme let out an unnatural screech before he melted away into the shadows, leaving Luka to let out a sigh of relief before he felt an ache on his arm where Simme had grabbed him. He looked at the area and saw burn marks as well. "Great..."
He sighed and made his way to the nurse's office before he gently knocked on the door. A female voice told him to come in so he opened the door and entered as the school nurse looked up.
"Oh, hello Luka. I didn't think you were back in school yet," She smiled, making him nod. "So what can I help you with?"
"I accidentally scraped my arm on my way to class," He lied, making the feeling of guilt wash over him but it wasn't like he could tell her that he got attacked by an evil spirit. She walked over and gasped as she saw his arm.
"Luka, are you sure this is a scrap? It looks more like a burn,"
"I scrapped it a lot," He lied again, making her frown and that feeling got worse. "Sorry,"
"Hey, you don't need to apologise for it. These things happen," She answered, grabbing her supplies and treating it. He didn't correct her but he wasn't saying because he was hurt. He was saying sorry because he was lying to her. She worked quietly on his arm before she let out a smile. "There we go. It should heal ok but let me know if you get any issues ok?"
"Thank you," He smiled weakly. "I'll head back to class,"
"Here," She answered, handing him a paper slip. He looked at it with a bit of confusion. "It will let Mrs Mendeleiev know where you were,"
"Right," He nodded. "Thank you,"
He took it and left the nurse's office before going towards the class room but as he got closer, he felt nervous. What if Mrs Mendeleiev started to ask why he was off? What if she didn't accept his answer? He felt a bit sick and stepped away. However, he took a breath and tried to calm himself down. He took another breath before he walked back over to the door and opened it. Mrs Mendeleiev looked up and a look of surprise appeared on her face. The students, apart from Kagami and Felix, also looked surprised. Zoe, Marc, Aurore and Mireille smiled at him though. It didn't help. It just made him feel guilty a bit more.
"Ah, Mr Couffaine, I didn't realize you were back," She stated, making him nod before he handed her the nurse's note. She read it and nodded. "Well, you can take your usual seat but if it gets too much or you feel overwhelmed, just tell me ok?"
"Right," He nodded. "Thank you,"
He turned and walked over to his seat, sitting down as Aurora leaned over.
"Welcome back," She smiled. "We all missed you,"
He couldn't help but smile at that a little. The rest of the lesson went fairly well and passed quickly. Soon it was lunch time and Luka was making his way to the locker room to pick up something from his bag. It still felt weird not having Tikki with him but he was managing. That didn't stop him from missing her though. He wondered if she had stayed in the flower bush. He paused in front of his locker and gently touched his current earrings, sighing as he did before he shook his head and unlocked his locker. He had expected a fox necklace to fall out but nothing did. However, his relief wasn't long lived as the familiar song of Lila made his stomach drop. He grabbed his phone and closed his locker, locking it before he turned around. She was leaning against the door with that horrible smirk on her face. He couldn't help but feel sick. Not only did he have to deal with Simme, he had to deal with her as well.
"You shouldn't be in here," He stated, making her chuckle.
"Your little restraining order isn't active right now," She smirked but he shook his head. She frowned. "Why are you shaking your head? It's the truth and a fact,"
"Well, I'm genuinely surprised you are able to speak the truth or facts given your track record," He retorted, making her grit her teeth. "But I wasn't shaking my head about that. I was shaking my head because you shouldn't be in here given that it's the boys locker room,"
She blinked as if she didn't expect him to point that out.
"I was getting something for Adrien!" She gasped, having been caught out.
"I know full well that isn't true," He pointed out, making her grit her teeth before she stormed out. He sighed before waiting a few more moments then he left the room himself and headed back to the canteen. As soon as he walked in, the hair on the back of his neck stood up and a shiver went down his back. He gripped his head as Alya walked over.
"Lila said you hit her," She stated, crossing her arms. He frowned to himself. Alya had stopped believing Lila a while ago. "Why would you do that?"
"I didn't," He answered but then someone bumped into him on purpose. Felix smirked at him. "Felix?"
"Why are you lying again, Couffaine?" He asked, making Luka frown.
"I'm not a liar," He answered but then everyone in the room turned their head to him and he felt his heart rate increasing as Juleka shoved his arm painfully. "Jules?"
"You're lying again!" She growled in a way that didn't suit her. "You always lie! I try to get you to open up to me but you block me out! Ma and I both got akumatized because of your lies!"
"Yeah! You always disappear!" Ivan gasped. "Whenever we have band practice, suddenly you have to go!"
"You promise to hang out with us but you're always late!" Rose gasped as Alix nodded, along with Aurora.
"Or you make up some stupid excuse as to why you have to leave!" She added in as everyone surrounds him. Marinette makes her way to the front.
"Why do you always leave me on our dates? Don't you love me?!" She gasped angrily. "You said I'm the melody in your head but you're never there for me!"
"I... I do love you," He gasped, stepping back but apparently that wasn't good enough. Marinette clicked her tongue.
"If that was true, you'd tell me where you go," She stated, annoyed. "Where do you go, Luka? Huh?! Where do you run off to?!"
She shoved him again.
"Luka, where do you go?!" She growls. "Luka? Luka?"
He blinks and Marinette is in front of him but she doesn't look angry. She looks worried.
"Sorry," He mumbled as she gently touched his arm as he placed his hand on his head. "I think I'm overwhelmed, Melody,"
"It's ok," She reassured as Felix also walked over. "It's ok,"
"You look pale, Luka," He stated, frowning before he gave him a bottle of water. Luka muttered a thanks before he took a sip. "Go home and rest. I'll tell Mrs Mendeleiev that you needed to go home. She'll understand,"
"Thank you, Felix," He nodded, deciding to do exactly that. He turned to Marinette and looked at her with a sad expression. "Sorry, Melody. I did want to try and complete the day,"
"It's ok, Luka," She reassured again, gently taking his hand in hers. "You don't have to push yourself to try and please me. I'm just happy that you're slowly recovering but you don't have to rush, ok?"
He nodded before he wrapped his arms around before.
"Thank you for understanding," He muttered, even though he hadn't really explained anything for her to understand. Guilt creeped up on him, making him feel bad but he pulled away and gave her a weak smile. "I'll go home and rest,"
With that, he turned and walked out of the school but not before catching a glare from Lila. He frowned but ultimately chose to ignore it. Instead, he left the school and walked to the Liberty. To his surprise, Jagged and Penny were both there as well as Fang. Penny was reading through the letter as he walked in. Instantly, Anarka got up and walked over.
"You're home early, Lad," She stated, glancing at him. "You ok?"
"I got overwhelmed at school and decided to come back," He mumbled, making Jagged frown as he walked over. He gently placed his hand on Luka's shoulder.
"Don't worry, son. My lawyer's rock and roll and he'll get this mess sorted plus we've got Penny on the case," He reassured, making Luka nod. "You look tired. Not sleeping well?"
He nodded in reply.
"What's keeping you up? Don't worry, you can tell your old man," He declared in a caring tone. It made Luka's heart feel both warm and achy. He was happy that Jagged cared for him and that he had his father finally in his life but he also wished that he had experienced it before now. Jagged might have been eccentric but he was a good man in his heart. Sadly, bad men like Bob Roth and Issac interfered. A stir of anger echoed in his heart. "Son?"
"It's just this whole thing with Lila," He lied. Like sure the Lila situation did contribute towards how he felt but it was such a small part that it really didn't affect him much. Guilt once again tore a scar in his heart as well and it seemed Jagged noticed.
"Hey, it's ok. Whatever's going on with you, Luka. You can tell us," He reassured again in a much more serious voice. "We'll listen I promise,"
"Thanks but really... I'm fine," He lied, adding another scar to his heart. Jagged frowned and Luka could see the disappointment in his eyes. He could hear it too but Jagged didn't try to guilt trip him or anything. He just nodded and gently gave his shoulder a reassuring squeeze and his expression turned to a more understanding look. That hurt Luka more than if he had been disappointed or angry. "I'm gonna go lie down,"
Jagged gave him another nod before letting go of his arm. Luka walked over to his room and went inside but stopped when he heard voices.
"It's more than just the Lila situation, isn't it?" Jagged asked, causing Anarka to sigh. "It is, isn't it?"
"It seems so," She answered. He could tell she was frowning. "But whatever it is, he won't say. I don't know where he got the thought but he seems to think he needs to shoulder this alone and not be a burden,"
"A burden?" Jagged echoed. "He's far from that. He's our son. I know I've not been around much and I'm trying to make up for that but..."
"I know, Jagged," Anarka stated. "If he can't come to us then we've failed as parents. I feel the same way. I'm trying not to. Not only am I trying to avoid being akumatized again but I need to be strong for him so when he finally can tell me, he does so without hesitation,"
"Neither of you have failed as parents," Penny piped in. "And I don't think it's a case of him not being able to trust you. He does trust you but Luka... he's a sensitive soul and he probably doesn't want you to worry for him,"
Luka quietly closed the door, not wanting to hear much more before he walked over to his bed. Tikki flew through the porthole, making him glance at her before he walked over and gently held her in his hands.
"I feel awful..." He admitted. "Maybe not enough for an akuma yet but even now Jagged thinks he's a bad parent and it's all because of my lies..."
"It will be ok, Luka," She reassured, making him nod but he didn't really believe it. Another lie, another scar. He gently let her go and took off his shoes before lying down in his bed. Slowly, he drifted into a difficult sleep. He slept for the rest of the afternoon until he slowly woke up to his phone vibrating. He slowly sat up and checked it, seeing it was Marinette who had texted him. She said she was coming by to check on him and was bringing some sweets. It made him smile a little before he texted back and got up, slipping his shoes on. Tikki was sitting on the shelf, watching him. "Good sleep?"
"It wasn't great but I feel a little better," He admitted. "Marinette is coming round,"
"That's good," She smiled before she glanced down. He could sense her loneliness. He walked over and gently patted her head with his finger. "Luka?"
"Don't feel sad, Tikki. This is only temporary and we'll team up again soon ok?" He smiled, making her nod. She knew that and she knew this was the best course of action but it still hurt being apart. He gave her a weak smile before he headed upstairs. Jagged and Anarka were sitting, talking in quiet voices and Penny wasn't around. He frowned as he looked around for her.
"Where's Penny?" He asked, making them look at him.
"She's on a phone call to our lawyers," Jagged explained, getting up and walking over. He gently placed his hand on his shoulder. "Did you sleep a bit?"
"Yeah," He nodded. "Marinette's coming by as well,"
"Ah that's good," He smiled, gently giving his shoulder a squeeze. "Well, don't keep the little lady waiting,"
"Right," He nodded as his phone vibrated. She had texted to say she was there. Jagged let go of his shoulder and sat back down next to Anarka. Luka gave him a weak smile before he headed outside. Marinette was stood on the deck, looking out to the Seine. She was dressed in a cute dress that was gray and pink. "Hey,"
"Hi," She smiled, turning to face him. In her hand was a paper bag from her parents' bakery. "Feeling a bit better?"
"A little yeah," He nodded, walking over to her. "Sorry that I had to come home. It was just-"
"It's ok, Lu," She smiled, gently pecking his cheek. "You don't need to justify it. I just want you to be ok,"
He couldn't help but feel both happy and guilty at that. He glanced at her dress, deciding to change the subject.
"I like your dress," He mumbled, sheepishly. She giggled and spun around for him, making him smile. He noticed that she had embroidered a tail on the back of the skirt. "A tail?"
"Uh hmm," She nodded. "It's one of my hero inspired outfits. This one is inspired by Mousekin..."
Luka blushed. She knew he was Mousekin. Everyone did because of his plan to hide his identity. Nadja had of course shown it on her program, which is exactly what he intended. Admittedly, he had sacrificed "himself" as a potential hero in the eyes of everyone else but it had worked. He suspected that Marinette had chosen to wear that to cheer him up and to remind him that technically he was a hero, even if he didn't feel like it. He touched where the mouse miraculous would be if he was wearing it, causing Marinette to gasp.
"I'm sorry. It was insensitive of me to wear this," She gasped, feeling bad. "I just thought you'd like it since you did such a great job as Mousekin,"
"No, I was just remembering what it was like," He smiled. "And you look adorable so I can't complain at all. Why don't we take a walk? There's a place I want to show you,"
She nodded and gently took his hand when he offered it to her. He led her to his favorite spot in the Seine, next to the flood gates. She had seen this place before but only in a few passing moments. He led her under the bridge before he stopped and closed his eyes. She looked at him as he listened and smiled.
"Luka?" She asked softly.
"Shh," He hummed softly, opening his eyes and looking at her. "Listen... The Song of the Water,"
"The Song of the Water?" She asked, blinking at his words.
"If you listen carefully, at this very spot, you'll hear a melody," He explained, holding his hand to his ear. She looked around and listened before gasping as she heard it. The light movement of the water, the soft sound of the wind and the echoes of the city in the distance. She looked at him and smiled, making him smile back before he turned and looked at the water. "As you know, I never knew my father, dealing with Issac instead and I got bullied in school. When I just couldn't deal with it, I'd take refuge here and the melody of the water would console me... I still come here for comfort, especially recently,"
"Is this where you disappear to?" She asked, making him frown. Of course she noticed. Thanks to being Anatis, he would have to go whenever there was an akuma. Luckily, she was patient and understanding, having to hide herself but of course, she would notice. "It's ok if you do but it's not very safe when there's akumas running around,"
"I don't," He confessed, making her look at him. "I just come here when I'm upset or want to feel peace. Though it's being harder than normal,"
"Harder than normal?" She asked gently. He looked towards the water again.
"I feel like everything that's been happening recently is my fault," He admitted. "Even things I can't tell people,"
"Can't tell?" She asked, making him nod. She gently took his hand in hers. "You know it's ok to reach out and talk to people, Luka,"
"A lot of people have told me that. Juleka, Jagged, Ma, Penny, our friends and now you," He answered. "I'm grateful for it..."
"But... you can't," She answered, making him nod.
"It's not that I don't want to," He replied, noticing shadows in the water. Of course, Simme is nearby. "It's that I can't,"
"You can tell me," Marinette gasped, making him look at her. "Whatever it is... I'll accept it. I'll understand. I promise,"
"I know but I can't," He admitted, looking down. "This secret that I have... it's too big for just myself yet I can't share it with anyone,"
"It's ok, Luka," Marinette reassured as the shadows swirled around. He knew the moment was coming. "Whatever it is, you can tell me. You can tell me the truth,"
"I want to," He answered, closing his eyes. "But... The Truth, Marinette, is the only thing I can't tell you,"
Her eyes widened a little and the guilt he felt made his heart hurt in a way it had never had before. He closed his eyes as the guilt flooded into his mind and heart. He could hear Simme's laughter and he could hear Marinette's heartsong. It was a little disappointed but understanding. She knew he would answer with something like that and she was accepting of it but that made it hurt so much more and made the guilt feel far worse. He hated that he couldn't tell her and that she was accepting of it. He hated it so much because all he wanted to do was be honest with her. With everyone but he had to lie. He couldn't tell them anything. He had constantly dodged the truth and made up excuse after excuse. He clenched his fist tightly.
~At Hawkmoth's Lair~
"Ah finally! The emotional turmoil young Luka is feeling has finally reached its crescendo. After all, there's no worse feeling than guilt, especially when your loved ones are so understanding yet you have to keep lying to them," Shadow Moth declared as he put his cane under his arm and held out his fan. Since merging the butterfly with the peacock after its magic had been recharged, he had grown more powerful and had changed his outfit to match. Gone was the old suit and full mask. He instead wore a purple tail coat with blue lining. Its tail was styled like a peacock tail. He wore a light purple shirt and a blue waistcoat. The butterfly miraculous was pinned to the shirt and the peacock miraculous was pinned to the waistcoat. His pants were blue and he wore black knee-high boots with purple soles. His gloves were black, his hair was showing and styled in a spiked look in a blonde shade. His eyes were pink and purple and he had a silver butterfly shaped mask that covered his eye area and part of his jaw. He wore a fashionista that was shaped like a feather with a light blue veil that covered one of his eyes. He plucked out a feather and held it in his hand, charging it up and turning it into an amok. He put his fan into his suit jacket before he held out his now free hand. A butterfly landed on it and he closed his hand over it, charging it up and turning it into an akuma. He opened his hands and let the akuma fly out before he lifted his hand with the amok and blew it into the air. "Fly away, my akuma. Fly, my amok and rewrite the song of this lost and guilt-ridden boy!"
He spun his cane and slammed it against the ground as the akuma and amok flew out of the window, heading towards the Seine...
~The Seine~
"It's ok, Luka," Marinette declared as she turned and faced the water. Luka frowned as she did. "When you're ready, I'll be there and I'll listen,"
No, she won't... Simme's voice declared, causing Luka's eyes to widen. She's lying but hey maybe that's why you like her. A couple of liars together huh?
"No," He gasped, making Marinette frown and turn around. Her eyes widened as she saw the panic and fear in his eyes. It was the same expression he had during the diamond dance. Fear filled her heart as she realized Simme must be here. She looked round as she tried to see if she could pinpoint where he was. "Marinette isn't lying,"
Of course, she is. She may say she is willing to wait but she is disappointed that you don't trust her.
"I do trust her!" He declared, making her gasp and look back at him before she rushed over. "She trusts me too!"
"That's right, Luka! I do trust you!" She declared as the amok and akuma entered the area. Luka covered his ears as Simme continued to whisper to him. "Don't listen to him, Luka!"
You think she cares about you? Ha! Don't make me laugh. She is using you but you don't have to put up with it. Give your soul to me, Luka and I'll free you from these chains you've created for yourself. No more lies or hiding. No more weight of the world on your shoulders or looking over them for akumas! No more responsibilities. You'll be free and all you have to do is give yourself to me!
"I... won't...!" Luka gasped but before Simme could stay anything else, the akuma and amok entered his necklace. Marinette jumped back as the butterfly mask opened the connection. She covered her mouth as his expression became one of pain.
"Truth, I am Shadow Moth. I'm giving you the power to force anyone to tell you their deepest, darkest secrets!" Shadow Moth declared, causing Luka to grip his head.
"T-The truth needs to be shared, not taken by forced, Shadow Moth," Luka declared, his expression becoming more painful.
"That's right, Luka!" Marinette gasped, noting how Hawkmoth had called himself Shadow Moth. "You don't need whatever power he's offering you!"
Well, she's right on that part but you don't need to give him. He will only rip that power he offers once he has no use for you anymore but give into me and I can truly set you free!
"Ah, the wicked spirit is trying to influence you as well," Shadow Moth declared before the connection got stronger, causing Luka to cry out in pain as blood began to pour from his nose. Marinette gasped and went to touch him but he shook his head. She instantly understood why. She may get dragged into the akumatization. "Well, I've been trying to akumatize you for ages so that spirit can wait it's turn,"
Wait, it's turn?! His soul is mine!
"No, it's not!" Luka gasped as he tried to fight both of them off. "I won't give in to either of you!"
Oh but you will and it will be me!
"No, it will be me!" Shadow Moth declared. "Why resist the power I'm offering you, Luka? No one will ask about your secrets if they are too busy telling their own,"
"Luka, please resist!" Marinette gasped as Simme laughed. "You have to resist!"
"Why should you resist?" Shadow Moth declared, making Luka grit his teeth as blood continued to pour from his nose. "You don't trust her with your own secrets but with the power I'm offering you, she'll tell you all of her secrets and not question yours!"
"I do trust Marinette!" He gasped.
"If you trusted her then you would have told her the truth," Shadow Moth declares. "Take my power and there will be no more secrets between you!"
Simme let out a growl as he realized Shadow Moth was close to getting Luka to surrender. He manifested his power a bit more, causing the area to get darker. Marinette gasped as she felt the air get heavier before she heard Simme laughing. Her eyes widened in fear as she felt claws around her neck. Luka's eyes widened as well.
"L-leave her alone!" He declared, his fear spiking. He gasped and gripped his head as it strengthened the connection between him, the akuma and the amok.
Give in to me and I'll free her! Simme declared, causing Marinette to hear him. She shook her head.
"No! Don't give in to either of them, Lu- ah!" She gasped as Simme's grip tightened.
"Ok! I will! Just let her go!" Luka declared, causing Simme to laugh wickedly. "I give in..."
Wise choice, Luka... Simme declared, letting go of Marinette. She gasped and touched her neck but Luka looked at her as the spirit kind of manifested. Now I can finally devour you...
"I give in..." He repeated, making Simme declare that he knows. "To Shadow Moth,"
The purple smog began to spread across his body as Simme hissed in annoyance, declaring something about being tricked before Luka looked up at Marinette as she looked at him with shock. It was a clever trick, making Simme think that he was going to give in to him but actually give in to Shadow Moth, who in this case was the lesser of two evils. However, it also meant that Luka was going to be an akuma and for some reason, that terrified her.
"Marinette! Run!" He declared, causing her to snap out of her fear and run. She didn't need to be told twice plus she had to transform. She didn't notice Tikki fly off as well as the purple smog consumed him before it disappeared, leaving the akuma in his place. He was the same height as Luka but had blue hair that faded into a lighter shade. His skin was also blue with his lips a slightly darker color. His suit was a dark gray with light blue details on the shoulders, side and chest area. There was an upside down white triangle in the middle of his chest that had a black slash in it, making it resemble an eye. It was also identical to the necklace around his neck. He wore black gloves and black boots with a strip of blue on them. There was a belt around his waist with a white buckle that looked like an O. He had a dark gray mask that had blue details around the eyes. His eyes were clouded over as if he was blind but then there was the third eye in the middle of his forehead. It had eyeline around it with three spikes coming from it. Its color was green and it was cat-like. A sentimonster formed behind him as he stood up. It was a giant floating eye that was the same shade as his third eye.
"In addition to your power, you will be aided by Lighteye. This sentimonster will be under your control," Shadow Moth declared. "It's time to expose the truth and find out Anatis' and Lady Noir's secrets,"
"Oh you're still talking," Truth stated coldly. It was the total opposite to Luka and it generally sent shivers down Shadow Moth's spine. Something felt off with this one. Somehow, it reminded him of the time he akumatized Felix and Meishi. "I have no use for you or your false promises... though I will use what has been presented to me,"
"Then I'll just recall my akuma and amok," Shadow Moth declared, smirking and clicking his fingers. For a moment, he felt the akuma and amok react but then there was a far more powerful surge of energy as Truth countered him and he realized his attempt to recall them failed. He tried to click his fingers again. "What did you do?!"
"I only used my own power, Shadow Moth and that's the truth. Tcennocsid," Truth declared, permanently cutting off the connection. It was slightly different to how Felix had broken the connection, since he broke it before he had become an akuma but Hawkmoth had managed to recall the akuma when he needed to. However, he couldn't this time. No matter how much he tried to snap his fingers. Not only was Truth not willing to listen to him but he had fully severed the connection in a way that Felix hadn't been able to. He turned to the Sentimonster. "Come, Lighteye. We have work to do,"
He jumped up and into the city, hunting down his first victim
~Meanwhile~
Marinette ran off and hid behind a wall as horror filled her. Luka had just tricked Simme but had been akumatized as a result and it had actually occurred this time. She wasn't sure why this time it actually happened but maybe it had something to do with Simme infecting him with despair. Regardless, Luka doesn't normally act well with akumas. Being one may make the already strange reaction worse. Plagg flew out as she took a deep breath and tried to calm herself.
"Dollface?" He asked.
"Luka's being akumatized," She answered, shocking him but also giving him answers. He had noticed he hadn't been wearing his miraculous and he was able to fly around more freely recently. He had also seen Tikki nearby. Luka must have planned for it. "I've got to save him,"
"Of course," He agreed, making Marinette give him a soft look. "You love him right so let's go save him,"
"Thank you, Plagg," She smiled weakly before she held up her hand. "Plagg! Claws out!"
She transformed into Lady Noir and took her baton, trying to call Anatis right away but he didn't answer. She frowned as she thought he would have transformed as soon as Luka got akumatized but maybe he didn't know yet. She logged onto the akuma app and saw no one had reported one yet so she quickly did that before she checked the news. No damage yet. That was good at least. She jumped up to the rooftops and glanced around. She needed to find where Luka's akuma had gone. She hopped off into the distance to try and track him...
Really happy with how this turned out. I wanted to represent Shadow Moth but not make him a main part so that's why there's an akuma over Truth's eye. And the black ribbons and dark hands represent the depression and issues Luka has being facing hence why they're grabbing him and why he stood in a dark water.
Also update on the actually truth chapter. It's going to be very long (theres 38 pages and im only really half way through) so I'm actually going to split into two halves. This should help it be easier to write and to read so the first half will be up in the next couple of days
Hello all. I'm back. Did you miss me? I hope so lol
On a serious note, there is a reason or several why I've being so quiet recently and I have made a post on here addressing it. Please go read it if you want to know. Please note I won't answer any comments that go into that on the story. Want to keep my personal life separate from my story.
Now onto the chapter. This took ages to write. Not just cause of the reasons for my absence but also because the lies episode is one of the worst in season 4. God i hated having to watch it and just urg! Bad writing, Asstruck! Bad writing!! Anyway, i tried my best to adapt it and lead it in to Truth. Also while writing this, I realized certain events won't be able to happen in Truth so unfortunately there will be no real Lukanette kiss in Truth but i will try and work it into the story soon. I also will trying and have Kagami punching Lila but if it doesn't work with the chapter, it won't happen (i want it to happen so i can finally write it). Anyway, I had to change a lot but tried to keep true to the original episode.
As Luka and Juleka said goodbye to everyone, Anarka was heading towards them. Everyone had a stressful day and she wanted to make sure her kids were ok. She had even got as far as to make them some cookies, which were currently on the side in the kitchen. It wasn't very often she baked but today she thought it was necessary. Luka was opening up a little, which made her happier. She hated seeing her son so depressed and down. She didn't want to push him as she didn't believe in that kind of parenting and she wanted him to know that he could tell her anything, which it seemed like he could now. She hummed softly as she walked towards them but stopped as she heard Juleka talking. Neither of them had noticed her yet.
"Luka," Juleka muttered, causing Luka to look at her. "You didn't tell us everything, did you?"
He looks to the side, causing Juleka and Anarka to frown. His expression was one of guilt and Anarka realized he hadn't been completely honest. She kept quiet as Juleka sighed.
"I won't try to figure it out or force you to tell me... but Luka..." She whispered, gently placing her hand on his shoulder. "I'm your sister and I'm always going to be. That's why it kills me that I can't help you with whatever is making you feel so alone,"
Luka went quiet for a minute and he looked down at the floor. It made Anarka's blood run cold. Luka only ever did that if he was trying to cover up something. He used to do it when he was little, usually after Isaac had been abusive towards him. Anarka waited with a fearful heart for him to speak.
"You're right. I am alone. More than I've ever been," He replied, running his fingers through his hair. He looked more stressed than she had ever seen. "I have to lie and keep the truth from everyone and it is catching up with me,"
"You don't have to lie to me," She whispered, gently placing her hand on his shoulder. "Whatever it is, we can handle it together,"
"N-not this time, Juleka," He replied, gently taking her hand in his. "This is my burden and mine alone. Maybe one day I'll be able to tell you but today is not that day. I'm sorry, Juleka but I can't tell you. I can't risk it,"
"Luka..." She whispered before nodding. "I understand but when you are about to tell me, I will listen,"
"Thank you," He replied, hugging her. She hugged back as Anarka watched. His words had shattered her heart and made her question if she was a good mother. She couldn't help but feel guilt for not noticing her son's suffering and sympathy for him feeling that he had shouldered it alone. He was lying to himself, convincing himself that he couldn't tell anyone and it broke her heart in two. She had failed as his mother. He should know he could talk to anyone be it her or Juleka and that no one would judge him yet he thought he didn't have to. She wasn't just a bad mother. She was a terrible one. Her son couldn't go to her or his sister with his burdens. As she felt her eyes fill with tears of shame, she failed to notice the akuma fluttering towards her. It entered her glasses, causing the connection with Hawkmoth to open.
"Lies, I am Hawkmoth. Your son feels like he can't be honest with anyone," He spoke, causing her to listen. "Well, I'm giving you the power to bring honesty back into your family and all I want in return is Anatis and Lady Noir's miraculous. Do we have a deal?"
"Yes, Hawkmoth," She whispered, looking at her children as they hugged each other. "No more lies will be allowed in my new world,"
The purple smog took over her, changing her into a new akuma. She looked like she was some sort of ghost. Her hair was white as snow and completely loose instead of her usual braid. She wore a veil over her hair that partly covered her face as well. Her outfit was completely different to what she would normally wear as well. She was now wearing white dress that was ragged and shredded at the bottom. She had no shoes on and her skin was extremely pale. There was a black hole with cracks spreading from it where her heart was and her nails had turned black as well. Her glasses had transformed into a hairband on her head and she had tears rolling down her face. As soon as she had transformed, she summoned a glowing ball of white light appeared in her hands and made it grow, surrounding herself, Luka and Juleka before they realized what was happening. Their eyes began to glow with a similar light as they stood there, almost completely still...
~Meanwhile at Marinette's Home~
"Are you ok, Marinette?" Plagg asked as he ate a cheese pastry. Marinette had got home about half an hour ago, after spending a bit of time on the Liberty. She had been all smiles and making sure Luka was ok as well as everyone else but as soon as they got home and into her room, she let that persona go. The worry on her face was clear and she didn't seem like her usual self. It made Plagg worry. He was already concerned with Luka and now Marinette seemed affected as well. He waited patiently for her to answer, which wasn't like him at all but he knew the situation was very serious. Hawkmoth had akumatized six people at the same time and then there was the fact that Luka was claiming he was ok. Plagg knew he wasn't. He knew what he had lost. Marinette was still dealing with the loss of Master Fu and Dr Mila as well. She hadn't taken Mila's death as badly as Luka but she was grieving too.
"I'm... I'm worried about Luka," She admits, making him frown. "I know he had told us what was wrong and that he promised to be a better friend and boyfriend... but I can't help but feel that he didn't tell us the full truth and I keep thinking about what Marc said,"
"What did Marc say?" Plagg asked. He hadn't really paid attention to their little 'help Luka' meeting.
"He said that he thought Luka was depressed," She answers, making him frown. "But I think that Dr Mila going missing wasn't the full cause,"
"What do you mean?"
"Simme," She answers. "Just before Felix became Black Swan, Simme was tormenting Luka. I know that Hawkmoth may have asked him to do so but with the way Simme was reacting to Luka. It's more than just him trying to get him akumatized, Plagg. I think Simme may be the cause of his depression..."
She paused as the word Depression didn't feel right.
"No... not depression," She muttered, thinking about it. The depression was just a small part of it. An effect of whatever Simme had done. Simme wasn't a spirit that caused depression. No, it was more than that. He was a spirit that was born of cruelty and he fed on one thing and one thing alone. Despair. Luka wasn't depressed in the normal sense. He was infected with despair and as a result, he had sunk into a depression that was brought on by the combination of finding out Dr Mila was missing, Simme's effect on him and more then like Anatis' feelings of loss. He was an empath just like Anatis as well. "It's despair, Plagg. Simme has somehow infected Luka with despair,"
She frowned as she thought about it.
"It must have been at the dance," She continued, frowning as she tried to work out why Simme was so interested in Luka. It felt like it was more than just trying to get him akumatized. Simme had stuck around after she had destroyed the akuma and kept tormenting him but what did he want with Luka? She began to pace as she thought about it. Luka was a kind and gentle person who had a heart of gold so why would Simme even go after him? What did he gain? She thought about it, trying to recall any information that Anatis had given her about the wicked spirit. He hadn't told her much other than about him being wicked and evil but he did mention that Simme had played a role in the Lady Blanche timeline. He had kept that world's Anatis prisoner for a reason but it still didn't explain why he went for Luka. She frowned as she paced, thinking about his victims. He had influenced the Terror Triplets and Crescendo, making them angry and corrupted but other than that, he hadn't done anything else... but he did target XY and ate his soul. There were also a number of pigeons and rats found by pest control that appeared to be alive but in a similar state to XY. Maybe their souls had been eaten too. Her eyes widened as she thought about it. Maybe that's why he was targeting Luka. "Plagg... could Simme want to consume Luka's soul?"
"It's a strong possibility but you're best off talking to a spirit," He confirms, making her nod. Maybe she could go to Shanghai as Lady Cosmos and ask Mei She... but maybe she could ask one a bit closer.
"Feng? Khnurn?" She called out before continuing. "Alpheus?! Sir Rene?"
Plagg watched as she called for the previous mages.
"Toutai?!" She called. "Any of you?! I need to ask about Simme!"
For a second, nothing happened then she suddenly felt like she was being pulled backwards, causing her vision to darken. When she returned, she found herself standing in a cave-like area with a small waterfall flowing in the distance. Sat on the ground with his eyes closed and in a meditation form was Feng. He opened his eyes, revealing their silver color. He smiled as soon as he saw her.
"Hello, Marinette. It is good to see you again,"
~Lies' Illusionary World~
Luka hummed to himself as he walked to the bakery. He was going to pick up Marinette for a date. It had been a while since they had gone on one so he was excited. They were going to go see Jagged Stone's first film Crocodile Heart. They were reshowing it in the cinema and since it starred his dad and they were both huge fans of his music, they both decided to see it. He walked past a shop, causing him to briefly look in the window at his reflection. However, he jumped as he saw Lady Blanche standing behind him. He quickly turned around but saw she was nowhere to be seen. He looked back and saw just himself in the reflection. He frowned but shook it off as nerves before he continued to the bakery and knocked on the door. The door opened and Sabine greeted him, making him smile.
"Hi, Mrs Cheng," He smiled as she let him in.
"Hello Luka and I've been told to call me Sabine," She smiles as he nods and waved at Tom. The bakery waved back before Sabine headed upstairs and called for Marinette. A few seconds later, Marinette came down and smiled as she saw him. He couldn't help but smile back as she shyly pushed her hair behind her ear. He thought she looked beautiful. She was wearing a pink summer dress with flowers on it. Her shoes were her usual pink ballet pumps that matched with the dress and she had a white cardigan on. However, her hair wasn't in her usual style but in fact let loose and she had her usual little bag with her.
"You look lovely," Luka smiled, making her smile. "Are you excited to see the film? It's the last screening,"
"I know! We can't miss it!" She declared, grinning. "I'm really excited to see it with you,"
"Me too," He grinned as Tom chuckled. Sabine walked over to them and smiled.
"I can't believe they're showing it again," Tom chuckled as he moved his arm around Sabine to give her a small hug. "It was so silly when it came out 15 years ago. It can't be any better now,"
"Honey, don't be mean," Sabine scolded, making Marinette and Luka chuckle. "It was his first movie. Think about your first attempt at making a baguette. It was pretty bad too,"
"I did burn it," Tom chuckled.
"Sure, the movie's a bit mindless but he's my dad and we both love his music so much so we swore we'd see it together," Luka smiled as Marinette grinned and happily clapped her hands in excitement.
"Crocodile heart is a great movie so I'm really happy we get to see it on the big screen," Marinette grinned, excitedly as Luka nodded. She happily took his hand in hers and grinned at him. "Let's go! I want to see if we can get good seats!"
"Ok," He nodded, causing her to lead him out as her parents waved at them and told them to have a good time. The two of them walked towards the cinema, holding each other's hand. Marinette happily grinning to herself as she walked with him. Luka couldn't help but smile at her expression. "Want to play a game?"
"Sure," She grinned. "What's the game?"
"Let's see which of us knows the most lyrics of his songs," He suggested, making her grin and nod. "Do you want to start or should I?"
"You start first," She nodded as they walked. He nodded and the two of them started their little game. By the time they got to the theater, Luka was winning by 20 points to Marinette's 10 points but the two of them were enjoying the game.
"Ok, try this one," He started as they turned the corner towards the cinema. "You are..."
"You are... um... oh I know this one but I just can't quite remember!" Marinette gasped as Luka smiled.
"You got this," He encouraged. "You are..."
"Oh! The popcorn of my life!" She gasped as they walked into the cinema. He chuckled and shook his head before he brought the tickets. "No? Ah damn it,"
"You were close but it was the doughnut of my life," He replied, making her facepalm.
"Of course! The doughnut featured on the 'Candy Apple' album. His food phase!" She gasped, shaking her head. "And it's my favorite album! Two points to you! You're doing amazing,"
"You're doing great as well," He smiled before nodding to the concession stand. "Want an orange juice?"
"Sure," She nodded, making him smile and walk up to the counter. He brought two orange juices and the two of them walked towards the screen.
"Oh, I have another one," He stated as they walked. "I gave up everything..."
"But my dreams," Marinette stated as they walked in.
"Nice. Two points to you," Luka grinned as they sat down.
"I got one. My guitar..."
"Is my only family," Luka stated. "Featured on the Alone on the Road live concert. I love that song. It's just a shame Dad wrote it when he thought Ma had left him on purpose,"
"Yeah. Bob Roth sucked for that," Marinette huffed in annoyance.
"Yeah but we've resolved it all now and he's trying to make up for lost time," Luka explained.
"Oh I know," She nodded. "Back to our little game though. 20 points to 12... Luka, you're officially Jagged Stone's number one fan!"
She blushed and reached into her bag, causing him to look at her.
"And you... you win a prize," She blushes, taking out a small box. He carefully took it from her and opened it. Inside was a guitar pick but it was just any guitar pick. It was a special edition one but it wasn't just a Jagged Stone one. Half of it was Anarka's one from her days when she played bass guitar with him. The two had been carefully crafted together and set in resin before being turned into a necklace. "It took a little bit of time but I asked the captain and Jagged for them and turned them into a necklace for you so you always have your parents with you,"
"Marinette... This.... Thank you," He smiled, looking at it. He took it out of the box and gently put it on as he got an idea. "The rules are clear, Melody. This gift entitles you another round,"
He turned to look at her with a soft look as she looked at him.
"Under the Moonlight... by the sea..." He stated, looking at her. She caught on straight away and smiled shyly.
"Kiss me?" She asked, blushing a little.
"Ok... if you want to..." He replied, smiling shyly too.
"I do want to..." She nodded, leaning in. He also leaned in but the cinema suddenly shook, causing him to look around. "Luka?"
"Was that..." He stated, thinking it was an akuma. "Marinette, I'm just go-"
He stopped dead as he turned back to her, only to see Marinette not sitting there but Lady Blanche in her place. He felt his blood run cold before she picked up the popcorn and looked at him with those cold blue eyes.
"Relax, Luka. I'm not the real one," She stated as no one else in the place even reacted. "Noticed how something isn't right here?"
He blinked and looked around. For a second, he wasn't in the cinema but in fact on the Liberty but then he heard a screech and suddenly he stood in front of Andre's ice cream. He blinked as if forgetting what just occurred before turning to order ice cream but he saw a sentimonster in the distance. He turned back to tell Marinette that he had to go, only to see Lady Blanche in front of him again. Another screech and suddenly he was riding a bike with Marinette but then he saw an akuma. He pulled his bike aside and went to tell her but it was Lady Blanche again.
"You need to wa-" She started but a screech was heard again. He once again found himself in a different situation. This time he was on stage and Kitty Section was about to play but there was also an akuma alert and he needed to go. Marinette was sitting in the crowd and everyone was waiting for him to start but he needed to go be Anatis. The Captain looked at him.
"What is it, Lad?" She asked as he glanced around. "Something wrong?"
"I... um...."
"It's ok, Lad. You can tell us," She stated. "Just be honest. No more lies,"
"W-what?" He asked as the entire deck suddenly became empty apart from him and the Captain. "Ma? Where did everyone go?"
"You can tell me anything, Lad," She stated, ignoring his question. "Just be honest,"
He looked at her as she looked at him, waiting. He felt a wave of trust and he felt like he could tell her. She was his mother. She loved him. He could tell her the truth.
"I am-" He started but then he saw Lady Blanche standing behind her and he remembered why he wasn't telling anyone. "Really tired..."
He put his guitar down and walked off the stage, heading down to his room as he looked down...
~Feng's Hut~
"So Luka is a pure light soul and that's why Simme is targeting him?" Marinette asked in horror as Feng sipped his tea and nodded. "But... that's horrible! Luka doesn't deserve it!"
"Of course, he doesn't," Feng agrees, putting his tea down and picking up a pipe. He held it up to her as if to ask if she minded and she shook his head. He was an immortal spirit. If he wanted to smoke, he could. Besides she was certain there was probably pure Tobacco in it before all the chemicals got added. Though it smelt more minty then she expected. He took a puff and blew out the smoke, away from her. She rose an eyebrow as she saw the smoke take on the form of snakes and birds. "But Simme is a cruel creature. He is drawn to the pure hearted and Luka is as pure as they come and don't worry. This is dried peppermint leaves,"
"Oh," She nodded before she frowned and continued their discussion. "But why? What does Simme gain from this?"
"He intends to consume his soul," Feng replied, making Marinette gasp. "But he likes to torment his victims first. That's why he's infected him with despair as you put it. He intends for Luka to willingly give into him but we can not let that happen. If Simme consumes a light soul, it will disturb the balance and he will be too powerful to contain and control,"
"I have to save Luka," Marinette gasped at Feng's words. "I have to stop Simme..."
"It's not for you to do so," Feng replied, making her stare at him. "In this situation, Luka must face the truth and save himself but as his girlfriend, you can assist and show him that he isn't a lost cause. Simme is trying to isolate him and unfortunately Luka feels alone at the moment. He has suffered a loss that has convinced him that he needs to keep his distance. Simme's despair is fueling it as well. The last time he did this... it..."
He glanced to the side, making Marinette frown.
"Simme has tried this before?"
"Yes," He replied, putting down his tea cup and picking up the pot. "Have you ever heard of Jeanne d'Arc and Gilles de Rais?"
"Yes, I have but didn't Gilles de Rais turn out to be a serial killer?" Marinette asked. "And what does this have to do with Luka?"
"Jeanne d'Arc and Gilles de Rais were some of Simme's past victims. Jeanne d'Arc was a pure soul like Luka and Gilles de Rais driven mad by Simme and her death," He explained, making her frown. "While Simme wasn't able to consume her soul, he turned her own people against her and drove her partner mad with grief. Sir Rene wasn't able to save either of them..."
"They knew Sir Rene?" Marinette asked. "How and what happened?"
"Allow me to show you," He answered, taking another puff on his pipe before he blew out the smoke. This time it began to show people instead of birds and snakes as it played out scenes from the past...
~16th June 1428, Domremy, France. ~
"Forgive me, father, for I have sinned," Joanne muttered as she knelt in front of the statue of her god in the local church. For most of her life, she had been plagued by extreme nightmares during her sleeping hours and it had gotten increasingly worse as the War that was happening raged on. More soldiers were dying as France divided itself as the two earls battled it out for control while the English tried to take over. She didn't understand why they fought but she knew it wasn't good and she wished she could stop it. She had even gone as far to travel to Vaucouleurs to warn and aid the Dauphin, a young man called Charles. However, she was turned away and called insane, making her wonder if the dreams were in fact the work of the devil. "I have fallen to the visions of the devil. In my dreams, I see an unholy beast reaching out from behind the veil and whispering in the ears of our leaders, filling their minds with darkness and wicked thoughts,"
She paused for a second.
"But I see a lone knight standing over a slain beast," She whispered, not wanting anyone to hear her. "I want to believe that he can help save us but what if it's the devil trying to leave me astray? My lord, please give me a sign,"
For a moment, the church remained silent but then Joanne heard a door open, causing her to look over. Her eyes widened as the very knight whom she had seen in her dreams walked in. However in her dreams, he was much younger. The knight who walked in was arguably older but it was definitely the same man. In her dreams, his hair was sleek and the color of a raven's wings. It remained that shade but there were streaks of silver in his hair. He also had much more scars than his dream self. He had a scar below his left eye yet both of his eyes remained a startling green. He also had a scar across his lower jaw and she saw a couple of wrinkles near his mouth and below his eyes.
"Jeanne D'arc I assume?" He asked as she stared. "My name is Sir Rene of Avalon,"
He placed his hand on his chest and bowed towards her.
"Avalon?" Jeanne asked, remembering the legends her father told her of the legendary knights that hailed from different regions but banded together to fight a great evil. However, he also said that Avalon was the stuff of legends and if it did exist, it would have been in the 5th century which was said to be 900 years ago. There was no way this man was from then. "My good sir, are you feeling well? Avalon is centuries years old and the stuff of legends,"
"I am quite well, young lady," He replied. "But I have traveled quite far to find you,"
"Find me?"
"Well, you are Jeanne D'arc,"
"But what could you possibly want with me, good sir?"
"Rene is just fine," He replied, walking over and sitting down on the bench near the altar. He took a deep breath, like he was relieved to be sat down and closed his eyes as he took another breath. She looked at him with a mixture of concern and surprise. "Forgive me but I am not as young as I once was and this armor is quite heavy,"
"Th-that's quite alright, Sir Rene," She replied, understanding. Her father was roughly the same age and he found it hard to do some of the things that he was once able to do. "My father is your age and I help him out so I will do my best to help you,"
"That is very kind of you," He smiled, opening his eyes. "But I doubt your father and I are the same age,"
"You are 40 years old, no?"
"Ah, you are too kind," He chuckled, making her blink. Was he old? "I am much older that silly number,"
"70?" She asked but this would be the first person she meant who lived to 70 plus despite his scars and graying hair, he didn't look old.
"Again, too kind," He replied, smiling. She looked at him and blinked. He was older?! "I will tell you but you might find it hard to believe,"
"Oh?" She asked, finding herself curious.
"928 years old," He replied, making her blink. "In fact, last week was my birthday,"
"You jest,"
"I do not," He replied, getting up. "But I told you that you would not believe me. But enough of my age. I am here for a reason and that reason is you,"
He reached into the pouch attached to his belt and pulled out a little wooden box before handing it out to her. She rose an eyebrow as she looked at it.
"Normally, I would find a way to test you but time is short and the enemy is much stronger than before," He declared, making her even more confused. "Jeanne D'arc, this is the miraculous of the Ladybug and will grant you the power of creation. You will use it for the greater good and with it, you will defeat the evil that looms in the darkness. However, once the battle is over, you will return the miraculous to me,"
"The evil that looms in the darkness?" She questioned before her eyes widened. "You mean that creature that whispers into the ears of the Earls? I tried to warn the true king of the evils spreading across his land but I shunned away and told I was mad,"
"I do indeed," He replied, making her gasp. "Jeanne, this 100 year war is stealing the lives of the innocent and I can not sit by and let that happen. Will you lend me your aid to help bring this terrible war to an end?"
Jeanne looked at the knight before her then behind her at the cross of her lord. She had asked for a sign and she believed this was it. Her very fibre and soul told her this man is a kind soul trying to help people so she took a deep breath and knelt down before him.
"I swear in the name of Jesus Christ and God, I will lend you my aid and my life to end this war,"
~Orleans, 9th May 1429~
"Congratulations!" Gilles declared, holding up his cup as Jeanne smiled calmly. Tikki was sat on her shoulder and eating a piece of sweet bread. Plagg was devouring a plate of cheese while they celebrated the first victory for the French in a long time. "We showed those English bastards who's boss,"
"Giles," Jeanne warned before she smiled. "It feels good to have victory though,"
"Yes but it's thanks to your leadership and your amazing courage!" Gilles declared, laughing. "If anyone from the English side got stuck by an arrow, they would have retreated with their tail between their legs! The cowards!"
"Not all of the English are cowardly Gilles," Rene's voice echoed as he joined them. Jeanne couldn't help but frown as she saw him leaning on his cane. She noticed that he didn't tend to go anyway without it and despite having a kwami as well, he had yet to transform. She even noticed that his kwami Vernn looked concerned. "While congratulations is in order, this is but one victory. We still have more struggles ahead of us,"
"Let their armies come at us, Rene!" Gilles declared, laughing as he held up his tank. "We'll cut them down like the pigs they are! Whatever is thrown at us, we will win!"
"You know a little kindness can go a long way, Gilles," Rene replied, making Gilles look at him with a little surprise. While he was more than happy to have compassion for his fellow man, this was a war and that was a sentiment their enemies would not share. "A friend taught me that one,"
"Then your friend has never fought in a war," He replied, going serious. "All is fair in love and war, Rene. Besides, compassion for the enemy is a weakness that they will not share,"
"And that is what makes it all the more important," Rene countered, smiling a little. "Compassion for our fellow man whether they will be our companions or our enemies is a strength not a weakness,"
"Rene is right, Gilles," Jeanne smiled, sipping her drink. "We are here to help people, not hinder them,"
"Alright, alright," Gilles declared, holding up his hands. "I will do my best to have some compassion,"
~Rouen, May 30th 1431~
Rene ran as fast as he could towards the Town Center near the cathedral as fast as he could. Not only was he trying to save Jeanne but he was also trying to stop Gilles. He had seen a vision of Gilles attuning with Plagg but Gilles wasn't able to handle that amount of power. It was driving him insane but if Rene could stop him now, he might be able to save him. He had already tried to save both with the rabbit miraculous but that didn't work. However, he wasn't willing to give up just yet. He kept running but came to a stop when he saw a burnt stake. He glanced around and noticed a number of damage on the buildings that could only be caused by Catastrophe, Plagg's ultimate ability before he turned his eyes back on the scene before him. A shadowy knight he guessed was Gilles in his powered up black cat form was knelt down in front of the stake and holding a still figure in his arms as he cried, causing Rene's heart to sink. He was too late. Again. Jeanne was dead. Slowly, he approached the man as he heard his sobs for his friend and comrade. It tugged at his heart strings and the feeling of guilt felt heavy in his chest. He wished he had done more. He had foresaw her death and had tried to sway her from going on another battle but Jeanne did not relent. She insisted on going, despite Rene telling her that her death was coming, because of her mission. She had looked him dead in the eye and replied with 'In that church I met you in, I swore an oath to my lord that I would give you my aid and my life to end the war and that's exactly what I'm going to do'. He pleaded with her but she was determined to continue and in the end, he gave in to her wishes. He stepped a little closer as Gilles realized he was there. He gently placed Jeanne to the ground and stood up, facing him.
"Give me the rabbit miraculous," He demanded, surprising Rene as he held out his hand. "Rene! Give it to me!"
"I can't," He whispered, glancing to the side. He had already tried that. It didn't end well at all.
"GIVE IT TO ME!"
"Gilles, I'm sorry but I-"
"I DON'T CARE!" He screamed, grabbing Rene by his shirt. "You have the power of time to bring her back so bring her back now!"
"I... I already tried but..." He glanced down, making Gilles look at him. "... I'm sorry, Gilles but there is no saving her,"
"Don't you dare say that to me!" He screamed, shoving Rene to the ground as he stared at him. His eyes were bloodshot and his features revealed his rage and desperation. Rene leaned on his cane to get up but Gilles kicked it aside. "This is your fault! You... You lied to me, Rene. You said that compassion for our enemies made us stronger! Well, you were wrong! I'm done with your compassion!"
"Gilles, please!"
"No!" He screamed, gesturing towards her. "Look at what they did to her! An innocent girl trying to help free her people and they accused her of being a witch and burnt her alive!"
"I tried to warn her-"
"I don't care!" He screamed, facing him before he ripped off the ring on his finger and threw it on the ground before casting the earrings down. "Take your stupid miraculous! I don't need it nor do I need you!"
He turned his back on Rene and lifted Jeanne's remains in his arms before heading towards the exit of the city, muttering about how he was going to make 'them' pay. Rene leaned over and picked up the miraculous, causing Tikki and Plagg to appear.
"Master Rene?" Tikki asked as he kept his head bowed and his shoulder shook.
"I'm sorry, Tikki," He whispered, wiping the tears from his eyes. "I really tried to save her but it didn't work,"
~69 Years Later~
Rene leaned on his cane as he walked through a beautiful forest as he made his way to a certain spot. It had taken him a long time but he had finally tracked down where Gilles had buried Jeanne. Gilles himself had been dead for 59 years. Rene had taken it upon himself to hunt down his former friend after he heard that he was slaughtering those he believed responsible for Jeanne's death. When he had confronted him, Gilles attempted to kill him. He didn't see Rene as his friend anymore and had clearly lost himself to grief. As he attacked, he raged on about how Rene had failed to protect her. He knew he had but he had come to terms with that. He didn't kill Gilles. He couldn't but he did defeat him and handed him over to the court of France to allow them to decide his fate. He had expressed his wishes to see his old friend survive but they ultimately put Gilles to death, despite his aid in the war. As for the War itself, it raged on for another 10 years after Gilles' death but finally it had ended. Rene had joined in with the final battle, along with a few other holders he had picked but he didn't pick another Ladybug or Black cat and he would not again in his lifetime. With the war over and Simme's influence cut, he could finally settle on his last duty as the Celestial Guardian. Find a temporary guardian for the miraculous until his next life would come and take over his new role. Knowing he didn't have long left, he did that and decided to revisit his old comrades' last resting places. His journey took him to the shores of Avalon but many didn't realize it was there anymore and to Notre-Dame des Carmes in Nantes, where Gilles was buried but he didn't know where Jeanne's final resting place was so while he revisited his friends, he spend time to track down her burial place. Legend said that she had been buried in the cathedrale notre-dame de rouen but he found out this wasn't the case so he kept looking. It took him 10 years but finally he found it. Before he left for it, he said his goodbyes to the kwamis and the guardians he had left in charge then without a single miraculous, he left for the location as he knew he would not return. The journey was hard but he got there. He admired the trees and flowers as he walked through the woodlands. Gilles had picked a very beautiful place for her. He finally came to a crypt in the middle that was covered in flowers and smiled gently, stepping over to it. He pushed open the door and headed inside. Leaning against the wall was the sword she used in battle and in the middle of the room was a stone casket, showing a sleeping woman on top. He walked over and placed his hand on the stone. It glowed golden for a second before a shade formed, showing his old comrade in front of him.
"Hello, Jeanne," He smiled.
"Sir Rene?" She asked, going to bow.
"No need for that, old friend," He replied, making her look at him. "I came because I wanted to tell you something,"
"Oh?"
"Two things actually," He replied, making her raise an eyebrow. "Firstly, the 100 year war is over,"
"I'm glad," She smiled. "But what is the second?"
"I'm sorry I wasn't able to save you or Gilles," He replied, glancing down. "I have seen many friends lose and it never gets any easier. It's hard outliving everyone but I am also honored that I got to meet so many brave souls and you were one of the bravest I had the pleasure of knowing,"
"Rene," She whispered, walking over to him and taking his hands in hers. "I never once held it against you. I died for my beliefs and my people and if given a second chance, I would do it again. You do not need to blame yourself for it wasn't your actions nor your choices. They were mine and mine alone,"
"But if I hadn't given you the miraculous, you might still be alive,"
"We both know that reality would have been a dark time," She replied, making him nod. She might have been alive but that didn't make that timeline good. Rene shuddered at the memory of it. "You look tired, Rene,"
"I am, Jeanne," He replied, letting go of her hands and using his cane, he sat down on the floor. "I've lived a very long life. Would you do an old spirit a favor and stay with me? I don't want to be alone,"
She walked over and sat next to him as well.
"Are you...?" She didn't complete the sentence.
"Dying?" He asked, looking at her. "Yes but that's ok. Like I said, I've lived a very long life. Besides, my next life awaits me,"
"Next life?"
"Yes," He replied as he breathed heavily. "I have a favor to ask you,"
"What is it?"
"Can you watch over my next lives?" He asked, looking at her. "Especially the child who defends Paris. He is like you and I fear that Simme may try to snuff out his light as he tried to snuff out yours,"
"I will do my best but I am only a ghost,"
"I'm aware," He replied, holding out his hand. Slowly a golden glow came from it, transforming into a single golden feather. Rene's arm fell to the side as he took heavy breaths, making Jeanne deeply concerned. "Th-this is a talisiment that will allow you to exist as a semi-spirit instead of a ghost. As long as you hold this feather, you will be able to channel Valor, the type of courage that we have when facing battles and will remain in this world as its conduit,"
She reached out and took it in her hand, feeling a surge of power glide over her as she did.
"What of you? If you die, will all courage disappear?"
"O-of course not," He replied in a weakened voice. "It is only my body that is dying. My soul will be reborn into a new form that will carry courage in their heart, along with loyalty, honesty and determination. I will live on as a spirit but within this new vessel,"
He let out a sigh before smiling easily.
"I can rest now that I know you'll watch over me," He declared, making Jeanne nod as she clutched onto the feather. He closed his eyes as he held a peaceful smile on his lips before golden veins began to appear over his body. Jeanne frowned as he slowly was consumed by gold before turning into what she could only describe as golden stardust that surrounded a gold and silver orb of light. It spun around before disappearing to a gold burst of light, making her look down at the feather as she took a more corporal form.
"Don't worry, my friend," She whispered, clutching onto the feather. "I will always watch over you,"
Marinette blinked as the vision ended, making her look at Feng and to her surprise, Sir Rene. He must have sat down with them during the visions she was experiencing. She looks over at him with tears in her eyes.
"I'm so sorry, Sir Rene," She gasped, making him smile sadly at her. "T-that must have been hard on you..."
"It's ok, Marinette," He states before he sighs. "It was hard. Losing Jeanne and Gilles was one of the worst events of my life and it took me years to forgive myself for their demise,"
"Is that why you made Jeanne the spirit of Valor?"
"Party yes but I also gifted her that to make up for the loss of her mortal life and to reward her courage," He answered, making Marinette nod. "But you are facing what I faced all those years ago. Simme is going after your friend and he will not stop,"
"So how do I save Luka?" She asks, determined to save him. Sir Rene looked over at Feng, who nodded. She couldn't help but wonder what advice and plan they had to save him.
"You can't," he admitted, shocking her.
"What?"
"You can't save Luka," Feng repeated, making her blink. "He has to save himself,"
"But what you can do is offer support and show him that he is not alone. Rally his friends and family to do the same," Sir Rene answered. "This will be key in helping him save himself. He has to know he is not alone. Simme feeds on despair and he likes to isolate his victims, making them feel that they are alone with no support,"
"You must counter this. It will be hard but Rene is right. This will be key in his salvation," Feng added, making her nod. She was starting to understand why she couldn't 'save' Luka. Simme fed on despair and was trying to drive Luka over the edge. It made her desperate to save him but she knew deep down she couldn't. She wasn't strong enough on her own but if she viewed it as if Luka had depression, she could understand how to help him. Making sure he's not alone and that he knows it. Helping him feel loved and that he isn't a burden. "You're getting the idea, Marinette,"
"Of course, we aren't just going to send you into battle unarmed," Sir Rene explained, making her look at him. "Yes, the reality of the situation is Luka is the one who has to save himself but we will help you make sure he has the best possible chance at winning against Simme... but what we are able to offer isn't for the fainthearted,"
"Or the weak," Khnurn added, surprising Marinette as him, Alpheus and Toutai joined them. She automatically stood up as she didn't expect all of them to turn up. Sir Rene and Feng stood up as well. "We can lend you our mana and teach you a special spell,"
"A spell that will sever the connection to Simme," Toutai declared, making her blink.
"And will destroy his despair," Alpheus states, making her look at him.
"It will give him the best chance at fully freeing himself from Simme's influence and saving himself," Sir Rene explains
"But once it's done, the connection to our magic will break," Feng explains, making her nod as she listens. It seems to be a great plan. They will help her destroy Luka's despair and the connection to Simme. "But you must be aware. You will not be the same ever again if you agree to this. You will be exposed to real magic, Marinette and it will change you... for the better or the worst,"
"What do you mean?" She asks, causing the five of them to look at each other.
"We have shared our magic before... several times in fact," Feng replied. "For the most part, people deal with it well. They go on to live normal lives. Some even become mages themselves but on occasion, the taste of power is too much and these individuals become obsessed with getting power on that level again no matter the cost. This obsession usually has them turn to dark magic and they become evil mages, walking on the path of the wicked,"
"And you think it's a possibility that I will get a taste and turn to dark magic?" She asks, frowning. The guardians all look at each other before Khnurn clears his throat.
"It's not that we think that. It's that we know there is a chance no matter how small," He answers, stepping forward. "But there's also a chance you won't. We are willing to take the risk to help you but it ultimately falls down to you. Are you willing to take the risk?"
"Yes," She states, without hesitation. "I love Luka and I will not sit by and let Simme harm him,"
"Then we are also willing to take the risk," Feng confirms before he stops and glances around. "But that will have to wait. You are needed,"
Marinette blinked before finding herself back in her room and the news on. It showed an akuma alert and the live feed showed the Liberty with a strange glowing ball on it. She gasped before holding out her hand.
"Plagg! Claws out!" She declared, turning into Lady Noir before climbing through her skylight and headed towards the Seine.
~Lies' Illusional World~
"I wanted to bring you here, Melody," Luka smiled as they stood under a bridge near the Seine. Marinette smiled as she stood with him. He closed his eyes. "Listen... the song of the water..."
He closed his eyes, causing her to do the same thing.
"If you listen carefully... at this very spot under the bridge, you can hear a melody," He explained as he listened. The flow of the water, the wind, the light sound of traffic. It all made a song. Luka couldn't help but find himself feeling calm. "When I feel stress, upset or even afraid both in the past and present and I just can't deal with it, I take refuge here where the water would console me,"
"That sounds... nice," An almost emotionless voice answers, causing him to open his eyes. Marinette was no longer there and Lady Blanche was in her place again. She walked over to the canal's edge and leaned gently on the barrier as he watched her. This time though he wasn't afraid. He felt like he was expecting this. "I too would take solace here if I felt stress or upset,"
"Why are you here?" He asked, making her look over but before she could answer, his mother jogged over. She completely ignored Lady Blanche and gently grabbed Luka by his shoulders.
"Lad, I was worried. You rushed off again," She gasped, making him frown. Lady Blanche rolled her eyes as he thought about the situation. He didn't remember getting to this area and why was his mother ignoring Lady Blanche. In fact, why wasn't she trying to attack them either? He looked over and noticed she was gone and Marinette was standing where she had been. "Lad?"
"Sorry, Ma," He answered, looking at her. "I just wanted to show Marinette the water-"
"Enough with the lies!" She snapped, making him frown. He went to argue but she cut him off. "I have given you chance after chance to tell me the truth. To open up and be honest with me but you don't! You lie and dodge the truth. You disappear, you make up stories, you say you're sick but you seem physically fine. What are you not telling me?! What are you holding back?! Where do you go when you disappear?!"
"Ma... it's nothing," He answered. "I really was just showing Marinette this area. It's nice and there's a melody in the water..."
"I know it's more than that, Lad," She gasped, making him frown. She gently placed her hand on his shoulder. "Whatever it is, Lad, you can tell me. I'm your mother. I'll accept it. Whatever it is... as long as it's the honest truth,"
"I..." He whispered, looking down before he backed away, pulling away from her as Marinette frowned. "I'm sorry, Ma. The truth is the one thing I can't tell you... or anyone,"
She went to say something but a sudden screech caused her to grip her head before Luka felt something shatter and felt himself being yanked backwards. He stumbled and blinked as he looked around as Juleka did the same thing. Both of them were on the boat and it was still evening time. In fact, only a few minutes had passed since Juleka had told him that she would listen when he was ready. Lady Noir jumped down onto the boat.
"Sorry for the interruption but you two need to get off the boat before she recovers," She stated, confusing Luka but then he noticed the woman gripping her head. He frowned as she resembled a banshee or some kind of spirit. "I think it's the captain but she appears to be akumatized,"
"Ma?" Luka asked, causing the woman to look up and let out a screech before she began to summon a new glowing orb. He began to back up. "Run!"
He grabbed Juleka's hand and Lady Noir's, dragging them both off the boat as the glowing ball got bigger. However, it seemed to follow them as the akuma followed them. Juleka tripped and fell, causing the light to wash over her and freeze her. Luka gasped before Lady Noir scoped him up and jumped up to the roof tops before setting him down.
"Sorry but stay here. That bubble won't reach you and I have to try and stop her," She stated before jumping down and following the glowing bubble. Luka waited for a few moments before transforming into Anatis but instead of going after Lies and Lady Noir, he took a breath and opened his yoyo before pulling out the Ox miraculous. He made his way to Kim's house but found both him and Ondine frozen. Lies must have passed here. He frowned before swinging towards the glowing light before seeing Lady Noir holding on for dear life on her baton as Lies' glowing bubble had grown so big that she would not be able to outrun it. He placed the nose ring in his nose, causing Stompp to appear.
"Tikki, Stompp.. unify!" He declared, causing his costume to glow and transform. He held up his head as he gained bull horns that were ivory colored that faded into red. He held out his arms as a dark blue glow flowed down his body, creating his outfit. His shirt was armless and dark gray blue and his pants resembled blue jeans. There was a black belt with a bull skull belt buckle. His boots were black and had toe caps that resembled hooves on them. He held up his arms, crossing them over as the blue glow created gloves that went up his elbows and a cropped, sleeveless jacket. They were the same color as his shirt but the finger tips were red and the jacket was ladybug patterned. He threw back his head, creating his mask and changing his hair black with electric blue highlights. His mask was red in the center and faded into electric blue with five black spots across it. A red ball of light appeared on his belt and turned into his yoyo before he held down his left hand as a blue ball of light appeared and turned into his glaive staff. With his new form ready, he jumped towards the ball of light as it grew closer to Lady Noir. He grabbed his glaive and held it up as he fell towards the ball of light, causing it to glow. "Herd Immunity!"
He brought the staff down onto the ball of light, releasing the power and creating the immunity zone before he fell in it, causing him to land on his feet in front of Lies and hold out his staff. Lady Noir landed next to him and held out her baton.
"How udderly delightful for you to drop in, bull-bug," She grinned as Lies shook with anger before she let out a terrible scream.
"Just call me Calvia," He grins, making her smirk back. "Let's wrap this up,"
"Alright!" She grins, dodging as Lies went to attack her, trying to attack her with her claws. Lady Noire blocked the attack with her baton and gave a nod to Calvia before she fought with Lies. With her distracted, Calvia took the opportunity to summon his lucky charm and threw up his yoyo.
"Lucky charm!" He declared, summoning the lucky swarm. They transformed into a drone and its controller before falling towards Calvia. He caught it and looked around in his luck vision before seeing Fang being held by Penny. She must have been taking him for his daily walk and got caught up in Lies' zones. She was completely frozen still but Fang wasn't. He was knocking his snout against her, not understanding why she wasn't moving. Fang lit up in his vision but Calvia couldn't step out of the zone he had set up otherwise he would be frozen too. He continued to glance around and saw a couple sitting on one of the nearby grass areas, having a picnic. A cake on a plate lit up before he looked at the drone as it lit up. He set down the drone as Lady Noire kept Lies busy before he flew it to the picnic with the controls and picked up a cake slice. He flew it over to Fang, getting his attention before he flew it away, causing Fang to break free and chase after it. "Incoming!"
Lady Noire jumped back as Calvia flew the drone straight towards Lies, causing Fang to run right towards her and dive at her as he dropped the cake. With Fang pinning Lies down, Lady Noire summoned her Cataclysm and tapped her hair band, causing it to crumble and the akuma to escape. Calvia landed the drone before he took out his yoyo and spun it, capturing the akuma in it. He pulled it back and tapped it, releasing the cleansed butterfly.
"Bye, bye, Little butterfly," He stated as Lies turned back into Anarka, causing her to sit up as Fang got off her. She gently put her hand to her head as Calvia picked up the drone and threw it into the air. "Miraculous ladybugs!"
The drone burst into the magic swarm and spread around, fixing the damage Lies caused.
"Tikki, Stompp, divide," He declared, turning back into Anatis. He caught Stompp in his hand and gently placed the tired kwami on his shoulder before he tapped open his yoyo and reached inside, pulling out a macaron. He gently held it to Stompp, who took it and started to eat it before he walked over to Anarka and Fang with Lady Noir. Both of the heroes helped Anarka to her feet before Anatis gently knelt down to pet Fang.
"Good job, Fang," He stated, causing the crocodile to pant happily before he stood up and faced Anarka. "Are you ok, Captain?"
"I... I got akumatized again..." She sighs before she leaned down and pet Fang as Penny walked over. "I'm sorry for the trouble I caused,"
"It's ok," Anatis stated, feeling guilty. He knew it was his fault for keeping the truth from her. However, Anarka wasn't done talking. She looked a lot more upset then the previous times she had been akumatized. It seemed she wanted to say something but wasn't sure if she should. "Captain..?"
"Anatis, Lady Noir... do you think I'm a terrible Mother?" She asked, making both heroes gasp in shock. They did not expect her to ask that. Lady Noir answered, saying she wasn't but Anarka looked down. "I know I shouldn't burden you with my insecurities but you're both friends with my son. He's going through something and I'm afraid that he feels he can't come to me about it because I'm a terrible mother,"
"You're not a terrible mother," Anatis stated, making her look at him as Lady Noir nodded in agreement. "Captain, I know that Luka isn't coming to you with his issues but trust me when I say it isn't because you're a terrible mother. You're not. He dotes on you and loves you dearly... and that's exactly why he hasn't come to you with his problems. He isn't coming to you, not because he doesn't trust you but because he doesn't want to be a burden to you,"
"He... thinks he's a burden?" She asked, looking heartbroken. "But he isn't! I love him no matter what. He can come to me no matter what it is. I can help him-"
"It's not that simple, Anarka," Anatis states, feeling terrible. Part of him wants to just throw his arms around her and tell her there that he is her son... that this is the secret he's being keeping but he can't. He can't let her know. He can never let her know. Not while Hawkmoth is here. "It's just not that simple,"
"But it can be," Anarka gasped, making him look at her. Could it be simple? "I know he's going through something and feels like he has to shoulder this alone but he doesn't have to. He can rely on his family and his friends to support him. We love him and want to help him no matter what,"
Her words were honest and heartfelt and once again, he wanted to tell her there and then everything but then his earrings beeped and he was dragged back to reality.
"I'm sorry. I have to go but I will pass your words to Luka, Captain," He stated, making her nod as Lady Noir frowned. He took out his yoyo and threw it to swing off but turned to Anarka one last time. "For the record, I think you're an amazing mother,"
With that, he swung away before landing into an alley. He detransformed and caught Tikki, giving her a macaron before he leaned against the wall and ran his fingers through his hair. Stompp and Tikki looked at each other as he looked up at the sky.
"I'm a terrible person..." He muttered as the sky darkened and it began to rain. Soon he was soaked head to foot but he also had tears rolling down his cheeks. He felt so awful. He never wanted to make his mother feel like she was a bad parent but he did. He made everyone feel terrible and he caused them to get akumatized. It was his fault that Juleka and the others became the Gang of Secrets, it was his fault that Anarka had become Lies and it was his fault that Master Mila had been killed and that Master Fu had lost his memory. It was all his fault. He covered his face with his hands as he cried. Tikki gently placed her paw on his shoulder as Stompp gently hugged him.
"It's ok, Luka," Tikki stated, gently rubbing his shoulder. She saw a flutter of purple and gasped. "Akuma,"
He looked up and saw it before he quickly said the transformation words and turned back into Anatis before he captured the akuma. He jumped up to the rooftop and waited to see if there was more. Sixteen akumas later, he finally released them and headed back to the Seine. He couldn't even cry in peace without Hawkmoth bothering him. He detransformed and walked to the area where he liked to go when he needed solace. He sat down on the ground and placed his head in arms as he hugged his knees. It didn't take long for Marinette to find him. She didn't say anything, simply just sitting next to him. Tikki and Stompp had hidden themselves in his hood so she didn't see them. She gently leaned against him.
"I'm sorry," He whispered, looking at her.
"Whatever it is, you don't need to be sorry," She reassured, gently taking his hand in hers. "I don't know what you're going through, Luka but I'm here for you. We all are so when you're ready... Come to us and tell us the truth, ok?"
He nodded and gently closed his eyes. They stayed there for a bit longer before Marinette carefully got up.
"It's getting late so I'm gonna head home ok? I can stop by the Liberty and let the captain know you're here if you want?" She asks. He didn't answer, making her sigh. She went to walk away but Luka grabbed her hand. She looked at him and waited for him to speak.
"Thank you for sitting with me," He whispered. She smiled back. "Do you want me to walk you home?"
"That would be lovely," She smiled. He stood up and walked with her, holding her hand in his. Soon she was back home and he was walking back to the Seine. He took out his phone and sent a text to the captain that he was ok and would be home soon before he looked out to the Seine. Soon he found he wasn't alone.
"The Seine looks beautiful tonight," Lady Blanche stated as she looked out at it. He looked at her before looking back at it.
"Yeah it does," He answered. "You're not really her, are you?"
"No, I'm not," She answered, making him nod. He was glad she wasn't. "You know what's coming, don't you?"
"The Truth, right?" He asked, frowning. "Every time I resist an akuma, I'm only pushing back the inevitable, aren't I?"
"That is correct," She answered, looking at him. "The Truth is Coming, Luka,"
"Yeah... I know," He replied, frowning. "There's nothing I can do to fight it... I'm scared.."
"It's ok to be afraid," Lady Blanche stated, gently placing her hand over his. "Remember you were afraid when you faced Princess Justice and when you faced me but you prevailed,"
"But this isn't like you or her," He admitted, looking down. "I know I have to face the truth but... what if I end up hurting everyone by telling them it?"
"The truth is often painful," She nodded. "But in the end, it is what sets us free,"
"The truth sets us free?" He asked, remembering the echo he had seen on the TV of Stormy Weather. She had said something similar. He looked over and saw that Lady Blanche was gone before he took a deep breath. "Tikki,"
Tikki flew out of his hood and Stompp followed. He took another deep breath.
"Tikki...I can't keep holding in my emotions or keep this pain to myself but I know the moment I let myself truly feel, Hawkmoth will take advantage of me. The thing is... I don't think I can keep it bottled up anymore..."
"Luka..." Tikki whispered.
"Keeping it all bottled up... pushing everyone away... lying to them... mourning Dr Mila and Master Fu..." He whispers, looking down. "It's destroying me to do so... and that's exactly what Simme wants. I thought I was strong enough to shoulder all of this alone but I'm not. I know I'm playing into his hands and if I keep going down this path, I will let that despair consume me,"
"So what do you plan to do?" Stompp asked.
"I'm going to face the Truth," He answers, looking at both of the kwamis. "I'm going to get akumatized at some point. It's only a matter of time but if I let myself become an akuma... I can plan for it,"
"Plan for it?" Tikki asked as Stompp looked concerned.
"But Hawkmoth will realize you're Anatis!" He gasped.
"And that's why I'm going to have Bunnyx reach out to the past me," He answered, making both of them look at each other. "I know by doing this I will set these events into play but Luka and Anatis has to be in the same place at the same time to pull the wool over Hawkmoth's eyes,"
He gently touches the earrings in his ears.
"I'm also going to have to give these up temporarily," He states, making both kwamis gasp. "I can't risk wearing them. If I do, I'll just hand them straight to Hawkmoth... So Tikki... I, Luka Couffaine, grant Tikki, the Kwami of Creation permission to remain outside of her miraculous even without a holder or miracle box... In fact, I grant the kwamis of all Miracle Boxes permission to remain outside of their miraculous without a holder or the miracle box,"
Both Tikki and Stompp glowed golden before it faded, causing Luka to take off his earrings and renounce them. Tikki remained despite him doing so. He gently held them out to her, causing her to take them.
"For now, I will not be Anatis," He states, glancing at Tikki. "I will need you to take them somewhere safe, Tikki. Somewhere that I would never think or find. I'll also prepare a letter for Lady Noire, just in case I end up in the hospital. If that happens, trust your miraculous to Juleka ok?"
"Y-Yes but I hope it doesn't come to that," Tikki states. Luka nods in agreement.
"I hope so too," He answers, glancing up to the sky. "We should return to the Liberty and inform the rest of the plan,"
The two kwamis nod and follow Luka as he walks back to the Liberty. They hid in his hood as they approached it as Anarka was sitting on the deck. As soon as Luka walked onto the deck, she stood up and rushed over to him. He instantly hugged her, making her hug back before he pulled away.
"I'm sorry, Ma. I never thought I'd make you feel like a terri-"
"It's ok, Lad. Anatis explained," She answered, gently placing her hand on his shoulder. "When you're ready to talk, I'll be there and I'll listen,"
"Thank you, Ma," He answered, a weak smile on his face but it was more real than he had shown for the last few weeks. He was starting to remember he wasn't alone again. Anarka nodded and hugged him again before she let him go. He headed down to his room and walked in, seeing all the kwamis flying around and panicking. "Hey, everyone,"
"Luka!" Daizzi gasped, flying over and hugging onto him as Sass and Vernn flew over.
"What's going on, young master Luka?" Vernn asked, concern in his eyes.
"We are able to leave the miracle boxes without our miraculous," Sass stated, making Luka nod.
"Yes, I've granted all kwamis the permission to do so," He replied, making all the kwamis fly over to him. He sits down on his bed. "And there's something we need to talk about,"
"What is it, my prince?" Pollen asked, holding Stingg's paw in her own. Luka couldn't help but smile a little.
"Soon I'm going to be akumatized," He explained, making all of the kwamis gasp. "And we're gonna need a plan to ensure I am defeated and returned back to normal..."
It's being a while hasn't it? I hope everyone is doing well and had a great year. As the title mentioned, I have decided it's time to explain why I haven't being around since the beginning of the year. Firstly, thanks for everyone who has being waiting for the next chapter of ROA. It will be released tonight so hopefully you'll enjoy that.
But I want to finally talk about why I've basically being on hiatus. I want to let you know that it hasn't being because of tumblr or anything like that. Instead it was my personal life and just a heads up, i will be mentioning mental health, depression and severe illness so if you decide to stop reading at this point, that is fine hence the keep reading thing if you wish to continue
Now for the stuff that cased me to go into a hiatus
I'm not going to lie. This year has being very hard but there's being some positives. However, there was a lot of negative and stressful situations which i went through. I threw myself into crafting and building things for cosplay as not only am I making up for lost time (lack of confidence when i was younger) but it's also one of the only ways I could cope.
So a lot of people don't know this but I don't bother with my extended family. They've never really being in my life and a number of them are toxic. Having said that, there were two members of the family that i did have in my life. My parent and my sibling.
Unfortunately, my parent was diagnosed with stage four cancer along with a number of other health issues, not long after I last posted. Throughout the year, they were in and out of hospital and in the summer had treatment for the cancer. I'm happy to report the cancer was removed and they're currently in ok health. Their health will not be perfect as they went through a lot this year but theyre in a good place right now and I'll take that because I still have them right now but unfortunately these events also lead in me going complete no contact with my sibling, due to their extremely toxic attitude towards myself and my parent. My sibling has also refused to back off and tried to contact me despite the boundaries i had put up. Mind you, I had told this person that I didn't want to be in their life anymore and even blocked them. They still tried to contact me by bypassing the block and getting someone else to message me while trying to guilt trip me for finally putting my foot down and protecting my own peace.
While all of this was happening, I was also dealing with a duty of care for my friend and trying to help them solve a troubling issue at home plus my own job was adding to my stress as I was training new beginners (i currently am a retired trainer for this reason). As you can imagine, I broke. Mentally and physically. My mental health has never being great and was especially bad in my younger years but in recent years, I had done well to manage my depression, anxiety and issues but this year, it's being the worst its being in 4 years. Fortunately, I didn't react the same way i did as i had the tools and growth to manage it and I have being taking steps to restoring my mental health to a decent state once again (hence the crafting). Unfortunately, the same can not be said with my current physical health. I'm not going to sugarcoat it. I have carer's fatigue, which has not helped my depression (though I'm working on it) or my physical health. It does look like I'm going have to go back to using a cane again and getting knee support again and of course, the doctors refuse to see me. That makes it twenty years of me trying to get them to listen and the doctors ignoring me because I'm "too young" or the pain is "in my head".
Anyway, let's address the positives in my life for a bit of balance.
The main positive this year was designing and making a cosplay for a character from Tian Guan Ci Fu and entering it into a competition at the end of this year. Making it kept me going. I didn't win but I realized I'm offically over my stage fright and i rocked that stage
Some other positives was making new friends and seeing/talking to old ones, cosplaying kpop demon hunters and enjoying the songs, doing small progress on my og novel series (currently trying to write book 3) and some other stuff. There's even being lovely customers at work which is always a bonus. Oh yeah. Summer was beautifully quiet at work :)
Anyway, I hope next year will be a little better and if it isn't, thats ok. I'll keep going because I'm too stubborn to give up. Besides, I have a cosplay contest to enter, a new cosplay to make (phainon from HSR. Don't be suprised if i do a one shot about him) and a series known as miraculous ladybug to fix lol
Synopsis: In the re-verse world (known as World 13), Betterfly has noticed that his own dimension is collapsing. He theorizes that this is because the Supreme is trying to take control of other worlds, causing dimensional tears, and anomalies. And now… multiple other super powered individuals are being sucked into his world because of it.
This story is a group effort! Please feel free to write/draw your own story ideas for this multi-AU fan work!
Comics/Art/Fanfiction:
Poster Art by @nionom-art
Part 1/Prologue by @nionom-art
Viceroy and Betterfly by @bigfatbreak
Marigold and Noire Connect by @nionom-art, idea/request by @matinho
New Heroes AU and Miraculous Coccinella AU by @chocoplagg
Ladybird’s and Betterfly’s Dynamic by @goatlilly
The Chat Noirs (and Lady Fairy) by @hades-999 and @nionom-art
Synopsis: In the re-verse world (known as World 13), Betterfly has noticed that his own dimension is collapsing. He theorizes that this is because the Supreme is trying to take control of other worlds, causing dimensional tears, and anomalies. And now… multiple other super powered individuals are being sucked into his world because of it.
This story is a group effort! Please feel free to write/draw your own story ideas for this multi-AU fan work!
Comics/Art/Fanfiction:
Poster Art by @nionom-art
Part 1/Prologue by @nionom-art
Viceroy and Betterfly by @bigfatbreak
Marigold and Noire Connect by @nionom-art, idea/request by @matinho
New Heroes AU and Miraculous Coccinella AU by @chocoplagg
Ladybird’s and Betterfly’s Dynamic by @goatlilly
The Chat Noirs (and Lady Fairy) by @hades-999 and @nionom-art
Here's the design for Lies of the Anatisverse. Obviously the first difference is that it isn't Kagami. I couldn't see it working with the plot and that so I chose to make it Anarka.
Now on with the design. I was going to make her look more glass like originally to keep in with the OG Lies design. However, I ended up taking inspiration from the banshee and La Llorona which ended up with this design. I kept to a similar color theme for her though and referred to the OG Lies in her hair piece and choker.
So her powers. Like the OG Lies, she can create a light sphere that paralyzes anyone caught in it as long as they have lied at some point in their life. She can't tell the difference between a white or necessary lie from a harmful one. However, she has a secondary power that extends to her children. When she captures her children, she can trap them in an illusionary world of her making with the goal of making Luka tell her the truth.
Anyway, I'm pretty happy with her design and hopefully Lies will be out soon
Well, I finished this a bit quicker then I thought. Work has calmed down now that the Christmas holidays are over so hopefully I'll have more time. Lies is next and will probably be very loosely based on the episode and then it will be Truth. Anyway, enjoy and I hope everyone had a great Christmas and new year :D
"Young Master, are you ok?" Vernn asked as Luka read over some of the grimoire notes for the sixth time. The sandwich on the side had barely been touched and he had barely left his room. Only really leaving to deal with either an akuma or to use the bathroom. He had told his mother that he was really sick and hadn't even gone to school. The kwamis had noticed that he hadn't even answered his phone or anything. It had been almost a week since he lost Master Mila and Master Fu and while he claimed he was ok, it was becoming clear that he really wasn't. Lady Noir had noticed as well and she let him know that he could open up to her but he didn't. The Kwamis suspected that maybe he felt like he shouldn't but they weren't sure. It didn't help that he hadn't been assigned a new therapist yet. Because of the previous events, Dr Mila had been reported missing and her clients were being assigned new therapists but it was taking its time. Luka couldn't help but feel guilty. He wanted to tell someone she was dead but he also knew it would open a whole can of worms as he would have to explain why there wasn't a body, why she had been killed in the first place and why she wasn't who she said she was. If he had the peacock miraculous, he would easily be able to make a fake and create a story that wouldn't complicate things and that would allow her to have a burial but because Hawkmoth had it, he couldn't do that.
"Young Master?" Nepp asked, flying next to Vernn. Luka blinked and looked over at them. "Are you ok? You haven't touched your sandwich,"
"Hm? Oh," He mumbled quietly before glancing at his sandwich. "I'm not that hungry,"
"You haven't eaten anything since yesterday afternoon, young master," Bennu declared, flying over. "So at least try to eat half,"
Luka sighed before picking up the sandwich and slowly eating it. He knew the Kwamis were right and he wasn't surprised that those three had taken to trying to look after him. It was almost like Toutai, Alpheus and Sir Rene were speaking. Their kwamis had similar personalities. He wondered if Khnurn's kwami was similar to him. Stingg flew over and landed in front of him, making him glance at him.
"Y-your phone has being going off as well," He whispered, making Luka nod and pick it up. Of course, his friends had messaged him and naturally Marinette had messaged him the most. He sighed as guilt began to creep up on him. He hadn't been a very good boyfriend recently. He was barely talking and just claiming that he was ill but she wasn't stupid. She knew something was up. Juleka and his ma knew as well yet he felt like he couldn't tell any of them. How could he explain that he had lost two people without revealing who he is? And it's not like he could risk that. If he told Marinette then Lady Blanche would return and he wasn't going to let that happen. He opened Marinette's text and read it.
Melody:
11.30am: Hey, I hope you're doing ok and taking care of yourself. It always sucks being sick so maybe I can bring some of your favorite snacks from the Bakery after school if you want. Love you xxx
1.01pm: Lunch time! I'll pop by the Liberty with some yummy snacks. See you soon xx
1.30pm: I'm here! xx
1.45pm: The captain said you're asleep so I'm just gonna chill with Juleka and Rose. Rest up and get better soon. Miss you xxx
2.42pm: Have to go back to school so I've left the snacks on the side for you. Sleep well and I'll text you later. Love you xxx
6.04pm: Well, school day is officially over and Felix invited everyone to have dinner at his. He's doing a lot better now that he's out of the hospital and he said if you feel up to it, we can drop by and pick you up. Don't worry if you don't though ok? Let me know xxx
Luka sighed as he read through the messages. Marinette had clearly tried to spend time with him, despite him being 'sick' and he had just ignored her all day. He felt guilty and he knew he didn't deserve her. He opened the text keyboard and began to type.
7.23pm, L: Hey sorry I haven't messaged all day. I've being asleep for most of the day so I'm sorry for missing you at lunch. Sadly, I don't feel any better at all. I'll try and be a bit more responsive though so you don't have to worry. Hope you guys had a good time at Felix's and hopefully I can join in when I feel better too. I miss you. xxx
7.26pm, M: Hey we had fun and it's ok. I'd rather you rest and get better then feel you need to message me all the time. Your health is important and if you need to rest then you need to rest ^.^ of course, once you're better, I'm gonna give you lots of hugs and kisses xxx
7.28pm: hugs and kisses sound so good. I wish I could have them now but I don't want you to catch whatever I have. Can't have my favourite melody out of commission now, can I? Are you still working on that dress? xxx
7.31pm: Oh I finished it a couple of days ago and it's being sent off. I can't believe people still want my designs still ^-^ did you get the snacks I left? xxx
7.33pm: Not yet. I'll go get them now xxx
Luka put his phone down and wandered out of his room before finding the snacks she left on the table in a bag. He opened it and smiled as he saw she had put his favorite baked goods in there before he headed back to his room. Juleka was probably upstairs with Rose and he wasn't sure where his Ma was but he went back to his room and texted Marinette again.
7.39pm: Got them. They look yummy. Thank you xxx
7.42pm: No problemo XD I've got homework to do so I'll let you go for a bit and maybe you can eat those snacks if you feel up for it and then relax or rest if you need it. Love you, Lu. xxx
7.44pm: That sounds good to me. Hopefully, your homework won't be too annoying. Love you too, Mari. xxx
He put his phone down before looking at the snacks she had brought. They were all his favorites so he slowly picked one up and began to eat it before the akuma alarm went off. He sighed and put down the pastry before turning to Tikki.
"Time to work," He sighed as she nodded and he looked at the other kwamis. "You lot stay here ok?"
"Yes, Luka!" They chimed as he nodded and swiped his earrings.
"Tikki, spots on!"
~Four Days Later~
"So Luka has being acting odd recently," Adrien declared as Marc, Felix, Ivan, Rose and Juleka sat around him. Mylene had joined them, sitting on Ivan's lap and Marinette was also sat there, frowning as she listened. Juleka had invited her to the 'help Luka' intervention group meeting and while she wasn't going to go originally, after barely talking to him again yesterday, she decided to go. She had being surprised to see Adrien there in the lead but as it turned out, he had a rare day off. For some reason, his father was willing to let him enjoy his day. Adrien had explained he was 'in high spirits' compared to normal. "He's not turning up to school or band practice. He's claiming he is sick yet Juleka, Rose, Ivan and the Captain haven't caught any illness,"
"He's talking to himself a lot," Juleka mumbled. "I hear him at night and he seems to be having more nightmares. He's barely eating and he quit his job as a delivery boy. His boss contacted Ma to see if he was ok as it was unexpected. Ma and I didn't even know he had quit and when she tried to ask him why, he didn't let her into his room. Didn't even open his door and just said he was 'too busy' for it,"
Everyone frowned as all of what Juleka had said seemed extremely out of character for Luka. Marinette seemed to be the most affected as she frowned deeply.
"He quit his job?" She asked, making Juleka nod. "He didn't tell me. I know he hasn't been talking to me a lot but I would have thought he would have told me that but he didn't. I'm worried about him,"
"If he isn't sick then what is happening?" Felix asks, frowning. Despite being his friend, Luka had even stopped visiting him in hospital and hadn't come round in ages.
"He sounds depressed," Marc stated, making everyone look at him. He cringed at their looks but continued. "A sickness that isn't visible. Ignoring family, friends and his girlfriend. Quitting his job. Refusing to go to school or even come out of his room. Barely eating. That sounds like depression to me,"
"Marc may be on to something," Felix confirmed. "Mother went through a very similar thing when Father died. She barely saw anyone and locked herself away but the question is what caused Luka to sink into this depression?"
"Maybe he has lost someone?" Ivan stated, making everyone look at him. "Felix just said it himself. His mum got depressed when his dad died so maybe someone Luka cares about has died,"
"But surely, Juleka and the captain would have grief too," Adrien gasped as everyone frowned but that's when Marinette shook her head.
"Maybe it's someone they don't know,"
"No one close to our family has died," Juleka confirmed. "... but Luka is supposed to be getting a new therapist. Dr Mila has gone missing. Maybe it was that?"
"Yes, I'm on the same page," Felix confirmed. "Maybe he thinks she's dead? He is a sensitive soul after all,"
"Regardless of what it is, we should let him know that he's not alone right now and that we're here for him," Adrien declared, making them nod. "Which brings us to the purpose of the meeting. We need ideas to help cheer up Luka and let him know that we're there for him. Any ideas?"
"Ooh, we could make him some cards and put lovely messages in them and then cover them in glitter!" Rose gasped, making Adrien nod.
"Why don't we write him some short stories?" Marc suggested.
"Or we could write him a song?" Ivan added in, making Marc nod.
"I could bring him some more snacks from the bakery," Marinette smiled. "That way he can eat something,"
"I could ask Uncle Jagged to come say hi," Juleka mumbled. Since he wasn't her dad, she had taken to calling him Uncle instead. He had told her it was ok to see him as her dad as well but she wasn't quite ready for that yet. "Maybe Penny could come by as well and bring Fang with them. Luka loves petting Fang,"
"I could give some math problems to work out," Felix suggested, making everyone look at him. "Uncle says Math problems keep the brain healthy,"
"Maybe no to the maths," Adrien replied as Mylene took out a bracelet.
"We could give him this," She states. "It's a secret bracelet. You hold a bead and give it a secret in your mind then put it together. Once given to the chosen person, they are able to give it their secret and feel lighter but also feel connected to those who gave their other secrets. It may help him with this depression and help him feel like he isn't alone,"
"Oooh that's cute!" Rose declared as everyone else nodded. Marinette couldn't help but nod as well. "We should do all of those things!"
"Though starting with the bracelet may be the easiest since baking goods and writing songs would take a while," Marinette pointed out. "That way he won't feel alone while we make some other stuff for him,"
"Yes, let's do that," Adrien grinned, making the others agree. "He's at home now right?"
"Yeah," Juleka confirmed. "I can text him if you want,"
"Yeah," Adrien nodded as the others nodded. Juleka took out her phone and texted but Luka didn't reply straight away and when he finally did, he said he didn't want to see anyone. She frowned but Adrien wasn't willing to give up. He declared that they would go there anyway. Marinette frowned and shook her head, making him look at her with confusion.
"If he doesn't want company then we shouldn't force it on him," She explained, making Felix nod in agreement. "Like I want him to feel better but his boundaries are important too,"
"I agree with Marinette," Felix replied as Juleka's phone pinged. "Is it him?"
"He said that he'll only see Marinette," She mumbled, making Marinette nod.
"I'll go over and see him," She declared, getting up and leaving the classroom. Adrien frowned deeply, along with Rose, Mylene, Ivan and Marc.
"Well, we can go to the Liberty anyway," Juleka mumbled, causing everyone to nod and leave the room as well. Marinette, however, was already ahead of them and speed-walking to the boathouse. She got there faster than normal and quickly greeted the Captain before going to Luka's room. The door was completely closed, making her frown as usually it was a little open. Enough for privacy but not to be closed off. She walked over and gently knocked on the door.
"Who is it?" He asked, making her frown. His voice was quieter than usual and he didn't listen to her heart song like normal. Usually, he would know she was there before she even knocked.
"It's me," She answered before hearing a shuffle and the door opened. He peeked out, making her frown as she saw his eyes were full of sorrow and red as if he had been crying. "Luka..."
He opened the door and let her in, causing her to step into his room. Almost instantly, he hugged her. She hugged him back as he gently pressed his nose into her neck.
"I'm sorry," He mumbled, making her frown. "I haven't been a very good boyfriend recently. If you don't want to stay here or with me, I understand,"
"Hey, don't talk like that," She gasped, making him look at her. "I'm here because I want to be and I'm not going to leave you just because you're having a bad time. My love is not that shallow or fragile but why didn't you want to see the others?"
"I.. I just can't deal with people right now," He explained, frowning. "I can't help but wonder if being human is worth it,"
"What do you mean?" She frowned. The way he spoke didn't sound like the Luka she knew. He sounded broken. "Luka... what happened?"
"I... I can't tell you," He whispered, stepping away and sitting on his bed. He looked down at his hands. "I wish I could but I can't and it's something I have to deal with alone,"
"You're not alone," Juleka mumbled, making him look up as Marinette looked at her. Rose and Adrien came over as well. "Sorry to interrupt but I was just gonna grab something from my room but I heard that. You can tell us, Luka,"
"No, I can't," He replied, looking up at them. "I'm sorry..."
"Luka," Marinette started but Adrien stepped in his room.
"Luka, Meleyne has this bracelet that you can tell what's wrong. That way you don't have to hold it all in and you'll be able to get it off your chest," He declared, making Luka frown. "You can tell it your secret and that secret will be with ours,"
"Adrien, don't make him feel like he has to," Marinette scorned.
"But he can't keep holding it back," Adrien gasped as Luka shook his head.
"Adrien, I appreciate the thought but I can't," Luka explained. However, it seems like Adrien wasn't listening. He started going on about how Luka will feel better once he gets whatever has upset him off his chest. Marinette and Juleka noticed Luka beginning to get uncomfortable and tried to get him to drop it but he wouldn't. After listening for a few minutes, Luka had enough. "Adrien! I can't tell you or some stupid bracelet why I'm upset ok?!"
Everyone looked at him in surprise as he snapped before he pinched his nose and tried to calm down.
"Luka, we're just trying to help," Adrien stated but it was enough to tip him over the edge.
"Well, you're not!" He snapped as the lights flickered. "If you want to help then drop it and get out of my room! I don't want to tell you and I can't, so just stop asking and leave!"
"L-leave?" Adrien asked.
"Yes! I only wanted to see Marinette and you still came here! So leave!" He gasped but Adrien didn't move. He blinked, causing Luka to get a bit more annoyed. "I said leave!"
He didn't move again and went to open his mouth.
"Get out!" Luka gasped, clearly annoyed. Adrien frowned and got up before walking to the door. He went to turn to say sorry but Luka was still annoyed. "Just leave me alone, Adrien. I need to calm down and be alone for a bit,"
"Luka-"
"Adrien!" He gasped, making Marinette nod and pull Adrien away, dragging him upstairs as Juleka grabbed the door handle.
"Do you want me to stay?" She asked, making him shake his head. She nodded. "Ok. If you need us, we'll be upstairs. We'll keep an eye for akumas,"
He nodded and placed his head in his hands as she closed the door. As soon as she was gone, the kwamis flew out and rushed to Luka as he held his head in his hand. He was holding back tears as he felt guilty and bad for snapping at Adrien. He knew he was just trying to help and that he was simply trying to show that he cared.
"I wish I could tell them," He whispered, making the Kwamis look at each other with concern. "I wish I could explain to them that I'm Anatis and that I just lost two of my friends but I can't. I can't tell any of them any of what happened,"
"I'm sorry, Luka," Tikki whispered as he hid his face in his arms. The kwamis flew over and hugged him. "We're here though,"
"I know," He whispered, nodding. The room went silent as the kwamis just kept hugging him.
~Hawk Moth's Lair~
The window of Hawk Moth's lair opened as he looked over at it. The white butterflies fluttered around him as he sensed the negative emotions of the kids on the Liberty.
"Several fragile hearts that break all at the same time," He declared, holding out his hand. "What a lovely symphony for my akumas,"
A butterfly landed on his hand before he covered it and charged it up with the dark energy. He let it go and watched it fly towards the window before he spun his cane and placed it next to him.
"Fly away, my akuma and evilize them!" He declared as the akuma flew through the window and across Paris to where the Liberty was docked. Adrien was sat on one of the boxes looking down. Juleka stood against the mast. Rose sat next to Adrien, gently rubbing his arm as she reassured him. Ivan and Mylene were sitting nearby frowning as Marinette paced up and down. She wanted to go down and check on Luka but he needed some space. However, she was even more worried. His eyes were red, like he had being crying. He seemed to have very little energy and then there was the fact that he snapped at Adrien. Luka would normally not snap at anyone. Even when he ran away during Christmas or had to deal with Issac and Bob Roth, he didn't snap so she knew for certain that something bad had happened and he probably couldn't talk about it or felt like he couldn't. She wondered if it had anything to do with Anatis, given that he was Anatis' best friend but the clear grief he was going through suggested it was something that had personally happened to him. She decided it was best to open that can of worms though. Who knows what it could lead to?
"Should I go and apologize?" Adrien's voice snapped her out of her thoughts. Juleka shook her head before he looked down at the bracelet in his hand. He took the lime green bead in his hand and brought it to his mouth before speaking to it. "I didn't mean to push him. I'm just worried about him,"
"It's ok, Adrien," Rose reassured as the akuma flew closer to them. Adrien smiled weakly at her before passing it to Rose. She picked out the pink bead as she frowned. "This is so sad,"
She passed it to Juleka who held the Purple Bead.
"I'm worried about my brother," She spoke before handing it to Ivan and Mylene who both held onto the orange bead.
"I thought the bracelet would help him feel less alone," Mylene stated as Ivan agreed before handing the bracelet to Marc. He held the red bead as the akuma flew closer.
"It feels like the story has ended," He mumbled as Felix and Marinette frowned. He looked down at the bead and frowned even more. "It can't end like this. We can't give up on-"
Just as he spoke the akuma entered the bracelet and the butterfly mask appeared around the eyes of Adrien, Rose, Juleka, Ivan, Mylene and Marc.
"Gang of Secrets, I am Hawkmoth. Your friend won't open up to you and reveal his secrets," He stated in their heads as they listened. "Well, I will give you all the power to force him to give them up! All I want in return is Anatis and Lady Noir's miraculous. Do we have a deal?"
"Luka will be our friend," Ivan declared. "No matter what,"
"And he'll keep no secrets from us," Mylene declared
"He'll tell us what's wrong," Juleka muttered.
"And we'll comfort him," Rose added.
"And once we know what's wrong, we'll rewrite what's happened," Marc declared
"And give him the happy ending he deserves!" Adrien concluded before the purple smog took over them. As it did, Marinette and Felix watched in horror. They had felt the akuma try to take over them but something blocked it, stopping them from joining the others. Felix suddenly grabbed Marinette's hand and pulled her off the boat, making her gasp in shock as they ran up some stairs and hid behind the brick wall. Both of them looked at each other before Felix took out his anti-akuma charm.
"Guess it definitely works," He stated before putting it away and taking out his phone. He dialed a number as she took out her phone and went to phone Luka to warn him. He shook his head and held his phone out. He had already dialed Luka's number and put it on speaker.
"Hello?" Luka answered, making Marinette let out a sigh of relief.
"Luka, you need to get off the Liberty now," Felix declared. "Hawkmoth has taken advantage of the situation and almost everyone else has being akumatized,"
"W-what? Is Marinette safe?!" He gasped, making Marinette's heart flutter.
"Yes, I'm here. Felix pulled me off the ship," She answered before they heard a crash and the phone went dead. "Luka?!"
She went to run off but Felix grabbed her arm.
"It is too dangerous," He stated but she pulled her arm.
"Then stay here but I'm helping him!" She gasped, running down the stairs. As she did, she saw Luka jump from the Liberty to the pathway and run off. However, Reverser flew after him with Princess Fragrance and Little Sister holding on to him. Heureux Fin flew after them as Stoneheart stomped after them with Horrificator on his shoulder. She rushed onto the Liberty and went into the area that contained the boat's wheel before transforming and jumping off, running after the gang.
~Luka's Room just before the Akuma~
"Thank you for the hugs," He muttered, looking up at the kwamis. "I'm sorry that I'm not great company right now,"
"It's ok, young one," Longg declared as the others nodded. "You've being through a lot and none of us blame you for your 'not great' company,"
"Thank you, Longg," He nodded, getting up and wiping his face. "I should apologize to Adrien and make sure everyone is ok,"
He went to reach for his door before his phone rang. He frowned and saw it was Felix before answering it.
"Hello?" He stated, a little confused as to why Felix was calling.
"Luka, you need to get off the Liberty now," Felix declared, making Luka frown. He sounded worried and a little scared. He signaled to the Kwamis to hide and turned to his door as they hid. "Hawkmoth has taken advantage of the situation and almost everyone else has being akumatized,"
"W-what? Is Marinette safe?!" He gasped, his mind jumping to the worst case scenario as he came to a stop. He couldn't lose her as well.
"Yes, I'm here. Felix pulled me off the ship," She answered, making relief flood his body. He went to say something but his phone came up with a strange symbol before Little Sister appeared in front of him, causing him to jump back and drop his phone.
"Treasure, we're here to help you," She declared, making him back away as she went to reach for him. However, Trixx summoned his power and created an illusion of Luka ducking from her and running out of his room. "Treasure! You can't!"
She ran after him, leaving the real Luka left in the room as she chased the illusion. He heard several others leaving as well, making him frown before he leaned down and picked up his phone. Its screen was shattered and its display was dead. He sighed.
"At least, she can't use it to get to me," He mumbled before swiping his earrings. "Tikki, spots on,"
He transformed into Anatis and placed the phone on the side before climbing out of the porthole and swinging around the Seine. He frowned when he saw no one around. He was sure Felix had being nearby with Marinette yet both were gone. His yoyo vibrated, making him open it and saw a news reporter of Horrificator and Stoneheart repeatedly slipping over. He frowned before noticing in the background the Eiffel tower bouncing side to side but it seems most people thought it was the akuma. He also noticed a red energy on the floor, making him frown. He closed his yoyo and headed to the scene. By the time he got there, both akumas were huge as Stoneheart had grown from the repeated impact and Horrificator had grown from the fear of the people who had seen him grow in size. Anatis frowned before glancing round and seeing Felix leaning against a wall in an alley. He jumped down and approached him, frowning even more as he noticed Felix was breathing heavily.
"Felix?" He asked, making the boy look up. His nose was bloodied and he looked pale. He rushed over. "What happened?"
"I t-tried to stop them," he coughed, sinking down onto the floor. Anatis frowned deeply as Felix looked at him. "S-sorry. I didn't mean for them to get so big,"
"It's... ok," He replied as Felix coughed. His nosebleed increased, causing Anatis to frown. However, he shook his head and gently placed his hand on Felix's head. His eyes turned silver as he focused on channeling Toutai's ability to heal. Previously to use it, he had to ask Toutai to allow him but he had a feeling that he didn't need to anymore even though he hadn't used it since he passed his test and his spiritual energy wasn't as weak as it was. It was still weak though so he'd only be able to heal him a little. However, Felix pulled his hand away. "Felix?"
"Fo-focus on the akumas," He mutters, making Anatis frown. "I'll be fine soon,"
"Are you sure?" He asked, getting a nod of Felix before he nodded as his yoyo vibrated. He answered it. "Kitten?"
"So someone is having a villain super party and didn't invite us," Lady Noire answered on the other side.
"They're looking for Luka," Anatis sighed, stepping away from Felix. "He managed to isolate all his friends in one go,"
"I'm sure he didn't do it on purpose but as usual, Hawkmoth had to take advantage," She replied in a reassuring tone. "But there's six villains. It's going to be hard to get the akumatized object,"
"I know," He replied, frowning before going silent. Lady Noir asked him if he was still there, making him blink. "Yeah... sorry I was just thinking,"
"Want to share those thoughts?"
"I'm thinking it may be a good idea to isolate one of the villains and get them to tell us where the akuma is," He mumbled. "But while I do that, I need you to keep Princess Fragrance, Fin and Reverser distracted. Stoneheart and Horrificator are currently amusing themselves. I know it's a lot to ask but they could be an issue,"
"You're going to try and get Little Sister?" She asks.
"Yes. She is Luka's sister and I know I can get through to her,"
"Not a problem. Leave the others to me," He could almost hear the grin in her voice. "Good luck, Annie,"
"Good luck yourself, Kitten," He replied before saying bye and hanging up. He typed on his yoyo and found Little Sister through the new reporters. She was unable to use her teleportation as Luka's phone got broken so she couldn't track him or trade places with others now. He put his yoyo away and turned to Felix. "Take it easy ok?"
"I.." He coughed but gave him a thumbs up. Anatis nodded and threw his yoyo, swinging into the city until he found another alleyway. He laid in waiting until Little Sister jumped over it. Taking the chance, he threw his yoyo and wrapped it around her, trapping her. Her phone fell down and he broke it with his foot, making sure she couldn't escape.
"Ha! Bummer for you, bug boy," Little Sister sneered. "I don't have the akuma,"
"I know," He replied. "That was to make sure you couldn't teleport. Since there's no horn this time, you must have another anchor right. Logically speaking, it would be your phone. Anyway, I just want to talk to you,"
"You want to talk to me?" She asked, making him nod. "Too bad! I have nothing to say to you!"
"Then you can listen," He answered, calmly. "Juleka, from what I understand... you've being having some issues with your brother. He's being secretive and distant and I'm sure you're worried about him. I don't know why he's acting that way but I do know he does care about you and I'm sure he's keeping it to himself because he doesn't want to be a burden,"
"He's not a burden!" She growls. "He's the treasure! I must protect him!"
"By becoming an akuma and forcing him to tell you what's wrong?" Anatis asked, making her look at him with shock. "Let me tell you something. I recently lost a couple of friends of mine and it's being hard trying to recover from it but my friends have been supporting me. Not by rushing me and making me tell them everything but by giving me space and offering their support. That's what Lady Noir is doing and I know my other friends like Culpeo and Abeille would do the same. That's why I trust them and am able to work side by side with them,"
He pauses as she looks down.
"Juleka, you don't need the power Hawkmoth gave you to protect Luka. You can reject it," He states, making her eyes widen before she closed them and started to try and reject the akuma. He had gotten through to her but the butterfly mask appeared around her eyes as Hawkmoth talked to her, trying to convince her to keep her powers. "Listen to me. Luka doesn't need an akuma. He needs you, Juleka. He needs his real little sister!"
He pulled back his yoyo, freeing her as she pushed back and writhed as she tried to reject Hawkmoth's power before she finally pushed back, breaking the mask and sending a shockwave. The purple smog covered her again, turning her back to Juleka as she fell to her knees.
"I..."
"It's ok, Juleka," Anatis replied, kneeling down and gently placing his hand on her shoulder, making her look at him. "You are amazing,"
He helped her to her feet as his yoyo rang. He answered it as she dusted herself down.
"Annie, the gang of secrets is looking for you and Little Sister!" Lady Noir declared as he heard her fighting before she used screech. "I don't know how long I can hold them off!"
"Don't worry. We'll be there soon," He reassured.
"We?"
"I have a friend with me," He replied. "Keep them busy. I promise we won't be long,"
"You got it, bug boy," She replied, hanging up. He checked her location then picked up Juleka and jumped up before running across the rooftops.
"Where's the akuma?" He asked as they ran.
"In a bracelet. I think Mark was the last one to have it," Juleka explained, holding onto him. He landed on a rooftop nearby Lady Noir, who was doing her best to hold them off. He placed Juleka down and tapped open his yoyo before reaching in and taking out the fox miraculous. "Wait... how did you do that?"
"I connected the yoyo with the miracle box. Only I can access it," He replied, handing it to her. "Perks of being the guardian but I'll bring you up to speed another time. Let's help Lady Noir,"
"Yeah," She nodded, putting it on and greeting Trixx before transforming into Culpeo. Anatis threw up his yoyo as Lady Noir got pinned to the ground by Heureux Fin.
"Lucky charm!" He declared, summoning the magic swarm and transforming his outfit. The swarm turned into a swim ring, making him think as he caught it. He looked around, causing Reverser to light up then Lady Noir and Culpeo before the swimming pool building lit up. Just as Princess Fragrance pointed her gun at Lady Noir, he nodded. "Culpeo, give them what they want but make sure to lure them to the pool!"
"On it!" She declared, jumping up into a high part of the building and playing her flute, charging it up. She threw the orange ball. "Mirage!"
"Lady Noir! No!" Luka shouted, getting the villain's attention before he turned and ran away, causing them to chase him. The two heroes jumped down and helped Lady Noir up.
"Are you ok, kitty?" Anatis asked, making her grin and nod. "I'm glad,"
"Don't worry about me but we better save Luka,"
"It's an illusion," He replied, making her nod before he held up the floatie. "But I do have a plan,"
"I'm all ears," Lady Noir grinned as he quickly explained it before he handed her to the floatie. The three of them nodded and jumped away. Culpeo and Lady Noir headed inside the pool building while Anatis landed in front of the doors. He fought against the villains, only letting Reverser get past him. Reverser chased "Luka" into the pool area and went to capture him but Culpeo jumped at him and pushed him off his glider, causing him to fall into the pool and for the illusion to end. Lady Noir forced the floatie over him, trapping him and allowing him to float up before she cataclysmed the bracelet, freeing the akuma. Reverser turned back into Mark and looked around, confused. Meanwhile outside, Princess Fragrance was about to take Anatis' earrings but everyone turned back into their true selves, causing Rose and Adrien to fall. Anatis caught Rose as Culpeo and Lady Noir ran back out. Culpeo jumped up and caught Adrien before setting him down as Rose thanked Anatis. The akuma fluttered by and he threw his yoyo to catch it.
"Time to de-evilize!" He declared, slamming the yoyo shut before he opened it. "Bye, bye. Little Butterfly,"
Lady Noir smiled and handed him the swim ring, causing him to throw it up in the air.
"Miraculous Ladybugs!" He declared, causing it to burst into the cure and spread all over, fixing everything. He looked up at the cure with a sad expression, wishing it could fix everything that had happened with Fu and Mulan but he knew it wouldn't. Lady Noir gently touched his hand, making him look at her as she held her fist. Culpeo did the same thing.
"Pound it?" She asked, making him smile and place his fist to theirs.
"Pound it,"
~Later at the Liberty~
"I... I found earlier today that Dr Mila had gone missing and a friend of mine... he's gone too," Luka stated, sitting next to Juleka and Marinette as he explained to everyone. "I wasn't sure how to deal with it and was trying to come to terms with it... but I didn't mean to snap. I'm sorry,"
"It's ok," Adrien stated. "I shouldn't have pushed you and I'm sorry. I will do better,"
"Thank you for all understanding," Luka muttered. "I can't promise I'll be ok or that I'll open up but I'll try. I'll try and be a better friend and a better boyfriend,"
He gently took Marinette's hand in his.
"I treasure all of you," He replied, making them smile and continue with the rest of their day. Before long, it was time to go and after goodbyes, the only two left on the boat were Juleka and Luka. He turned to go back to his room.
"Luka," Juleka muttered, making him turn back to her. "You didn't tell us everything, did you?"
He looks to the side, causing Juleka to frown.
"I won't try to figure it out or force you to tell me... but Luka..." She whispered. "I'm your sister and I'm always going to be. That's why it kills me that I can't help you with whatever is making you feel so alone,"
Luka went quiet for a minute and he looked down at the floor.
"You're right. I am alone. More than I've ever being," He replied. "I have to lie and keep the truth from everyone and it is catching up with me,"
"You don't have to lie to me," She whispered, gently placing her hand on his shoulder. "Whatever it is, we can handle it together,"
"N-not this time, Juleka," He replied, gently taking her hand in his. "This is my burden and mine alone. Maybe one day I'll be able to tell you but today is not that day. I'm sorry, Juleka but I can't tell you. I can't risk it,"
"Luka..." She whispered before nodding. "I understand but when you are about to tell me, I will listen,"
"Thank you," He replied, hugging her. She hugged back. Neither of them had noticed their mother watching. She couldn't help but feel guilt for not noticing her son's suffering and sympathy for him feeling that he had shoulder it alone. He was lying to himself, convincing himself that he couldn't tell anyone and it broke her heart in two. She had failed as his mother. He should know he could talk to anyone be it her or Juleka and that no one would judge him yet he thought he didn't have to. She failed to notice the akuma fluttering towards her.
"Lies, I am Hawkmoth. Your son feels like he can't be honest with anyone. Well, I'm giving you the power to bring honesty back into your family and all I want in return is Anatis and Lady Noir's miraculous. Do we have a deal?"