Holy crap. I finished this one quickly but I'm really happy with it. I also fixed it! I love that Viperion made his debut in Desperada and I love Desperada herself. She is one of my favorite akuma designs and I really want to cosplay her but I hate Aspik! Firstly, I feel that Adrien was extremely selfish in the episode and Aspik's design is frankly awful. Also I hate the reset where he tells Ladybug that he is Cat Noir. While I can see why people might think of it as romantic, I think it was awful. The betrayal in her eyes is clear and god, Adrien, why? Why would you abandon our favorite kitty, Plagg? Now having said that, Marinette isn't free of blame either. She shouldn't have chosen Adrien over Luka in both parts of the episode or let her heart be in charge in this case. I'm all for following your heart but sometimes you need to listen to your head and this was one of those times. Anyway, I hope you guys like my version of Desperada. Oh! And a shout out to my friend, Naruwitch who suggested having Desperada and Ikari Gozen set before Heroes Day and also for suggesting Anatis telling Adrien off.
"Girl, can you believe I missed it?!" Alya gasped as they walked towards the Seine with Alix and Chloe. Marinette giggled a little at Alya's drawn out reaction. She had been gutted that she had missed Abeille's debut due to been controlled by Malediktator a week ago. Alix sniggered as she groaned again, causing Chloe to roll her eyes.
"Alya, I already said you can use my selfies with her for the Lady-blog," She gasped, shaking her head. "Honestly, you're been ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!"
"Aww, come on, Chloe. It was her debut and I missed it!!" Alya gasped dramatically, making the other girls laugh before she gently nudged Chloe's arm. "But seriously, thanks for letting me use them,"
"Uh you're welcome," She mumbled, looking a bit embarrassed but Marinette got it. Part of Chloe was still getting use to have friends but she was slowly getting us to it and as it turned out, she was pretty cool and nice. She had her moments where she slipped up but unlike before, she would actually correct herself and apologize. It actually made Marinette very proud to call Chloe a friend. "So where are we going anyway?"
"We're going to the liberty," Marinette answered, happily.
"So Marinette can spend some more time with Luka!" Alya teased in a sing song voice, making Marinette blush. "She is totally into him,"
"Really? I thought you had a thing for Adrikins," Chloe asked, surprised as Marinette turned a bright shade of red.
"I do like Adrien..." Marinette gasped, blushing. "I just also like Luka,"
"Well, it's not like I blame you," Chloe stated. "Luka's pretty cute after all,"
"Yeah, he is, isn't he?" Marinette answered dreamily before shaking her head. "I mean I haven't noticed... uh..."
"You have it so bad," Alix grinned, making Marinette gasp. "You should just ask him out already. It's not like he would say no,"
"What? No, Luka doesn't like me in that way," She gasped, looking a little sad. "We're just really close friends,"
"Ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!" Chloe gasped as they came to the boat. They walked across to the gangplank before heading down into the ship. Chloe looked around in amazement as it was different to the hotel. Alya grinned and grabbed a seat next to Mylene who was happily watching the rest of them set up. Rose and Juleka were talking while Ivan set up his drums. Finally, Luka was setting up his guitar. Marinette smiled and walked over, causing him to look up.
"Hey, Melody," He smiled. "I'm glad you were able to make it,"
"Oh, like I would miss it," She giggled, making him grin. "You know I love seeing you guys play. Hey, you want a drink?"
"Sure," He smiled, causing her to skip over to the kitchen as he started to play as Ivan drummed. Marinette smiled as she glanced over before getting the rest of the band some drinks as well. She didn't want to look like she just cared about Luka. She placed them on a tray and walked over to Rose and Juleka. They happily took a glass each before she moved over to Ivan as he stopped playing drums. He thanked as he took one and downed it. She smiled and walked over to Luka, who was still playing with his eyes closed. She took a moment to watch him, amazed by the tune he was playing.
"Wow, you're so talented, Luka," She smiled, causing him to open his eyes and stop playing. "You know I never asked how long you've been playing for? I know you mentioned you played as a kid but you never said how long,"
"Hmm... well, pretty much as soon as I could up the guitar," He smiled before playing a little tune on the guitar, making the two of them laughed before he gestured to the guitar as the rest of the girls talked. "Want a go?"
"Really?" She gasped, causing him to nod. "Are you sure? I mean you know how clumsy I can be. I don't want to break it,"
"I trust you," He smiled, making her smile back. She put down the tray of drinks as he took his guitar off and gently put it over her. He smiled at her and gently moved behind her before he placed a pick in her hand and moved it towards the strings. "Just strum the strings and I'll play the notes,"
She smiled and strummed the strings like he suggested as he moved his fingers across the fretboard. He gently placed his hand on her shoulder as he moved his fingers, making her smile a little as they continued. She looked up at him and smiled as she continued to strum. Meanwhile, the girls were watching their little interaction happily. Even Chloe was grinning.
"They're so cute together," Mylene sighed, causing Chloe to nod in agreement.
"So true," Alix piped in as Adrien and Kagami walked into the living area and walked over to the girls.
"So are," Alya sighed happily.
"You think?" Adrien asked, making them jump before Chloe grinned, waving to him and Kagami as she glanced towards them. Marinette was happily smiling as her full attention was on Luka and his guitar.
"I agree," She smiled, turning to Adrien. "Luka and Marinette seem to get along very well,"
"Adrien?! Kagami?!" Alya gasped, holding her heart. "God, you two are sneaky!"
"With parents like ours, you learn to be. You see we're officially at fencing practice right now," Adrien grinned before turning to Kagami and pretending to be worried. "But oh no, Kagami, isn't this the wrong address?"
"Oh dear!" She gasped, holding her face before she took his hands. "I think you're right,"
The two of them burst into laughter, causing Marinette and Luka to look in the direction. Adrien smiled and waved at them, causing them both to wave back. Marinette looked back at the strings, causing Luka to frown a little.
"Marinette?" He asked, making her glance at him. He had a concerned look on his face as he looked at her before he looked over at Adrien and Kagami, who were laughing and smiling. "It's nice to see him get out of the house more,"
"Y-Yeah, it is," She mumbled, looking at them with a sad expression before she shook her head and smiled. Luka gently took the guitar off her and placed it on his back before gently placing his hand on her shoulder.
"You ok?" He asked in a quiet but concerned voice. She tried her best to smile at him but as usual he could see through it.
"Are you ok if I go say hello to them?" She mumbled, looking down.
"Of course," He replied, gently patting her head. "Don't forget that they're your friends and you don't have to ask me permission to talk to them,"
She smiled and gently leaned up to kiss his cheek. He blushed as she did before she pulled away.
"Thank you, Luka," She replied before moving over to Adrien and Kagami. "Hey, it's good to see you two here! I'm so glad you were able to make it together!"
"It's good to see you too, Marinette," Kagami smiled, amused by Marinette's nervous energy. "Are you here to watch the rehearsal as well?"
"Oh yeah! Of course, I love watching Luka- I mean Kitty Section play," Marinette gasped, blushing. Adrien chuckled a little, making her frown a little.
"They are really good, aren't they?" He smiled, glancing at Luka who was sipping his drink.
"You seem to enjoy Luka's company a lot," Kagami pointed out, making Marinette go bright red. "Is there something between you two?"
"W-What?" She gasped, going a bright shade of red. "N-no... Luka and I are just friends... really good, close friends... yeah... totally just that!"
"Kagami, you shouldn't tease Marinette like that," Adrien scolded, causing Kagami to smile a little as Luka walked over.
"So how did you two escape your jailers?" He asked in an amused tone but the look he gave Marinette was a reassuring one, telling her he was changing the subject on purpose. She gave him a thankful glance.
"Oh, our parents think we're at a fencing lesson," Adrien shrugged, smirking but before they could continue their conversation, they heard the captain shouting.
"I will not be your second chance!" She shouted, making Luka frown deeply before he rushed up the stairs, followed by everyone else. Anarka was stood at the edge of the boat, glaring at none other then Jagged Stone. Marinette frowned as she saw the color drain from Luka's face. She frowned as she followed his line of sight and saw he was looking directly at Jagged with an almost fearful expression. Luckily, Jagged didn't seem to notice and was playing his piano on top of his tour bus.
"You've always been my muse!" He declared, glancing over at her. "You know perfectly well you were my first choice. You are the only one, Nanarky!"
"Nanarky?" Juleka questioned but Luka was silent, worrying Marinette even more. She gently nudged his arm, causing him to glance at her and mouthed are you ok. He bit his lip but looked back without answering.
"You can't fool me, Pirate!" She shouted, making the kids glance at her as she pointed at Jagged, causing them to all wonder how she knew Jagged. "I bet you threw your guitarist overboard! Again!"
"No, I swear I didn't!" He gasped, making Luka frown a little. "She sailed away from me! She left me in a lurch!"
He moved his hand across his forehead dramatically before glancing over at her. Seeing it wasn't working, he pulled out one of his vinyls and held it up. It showed him in a sci-fi like mask and outfit with a woman next to him in a similar design. Marinette rose an eyebrow as she watched.
"Look how perfect we were together," He stated, making her frown deeply. "Come back and play with me, Nanarky. I even got rid of Bob Roth,"
"Not good enough!" She shouted, glaring at him. "We are not co-captains anymore! I sail alone!"
With that, she turned around and walked off, causing Jagged to play with his piano sadly and the rest of the group to stare in confusion. Juleka looked at Luka, who was frowning deeply. She gently tapped his arm, causing him to look at her.
"Jagged and our mom?" She asked, causing him to frown even. "Luka?"
"I... I don't know, Jules," He mumbled, causing her to give him a concerned look but before he could do anything else, Jagged spotted Marinette.
"Marinette! You're here!" He gasped, grinning happily. Even the song he was playing changed to a happier tune but the simple action shook Luka to the core and caused him to take a step back. Jagged grinned at her as he pulled down his shades. "The awesome designer of these rock'n'roll shades of mine! I'm sure you can help me! I need a guitarist like yesterday!! Hey, do you play guitar?"
"M-Me? G-Guitar?" She gasped, pointing to herself before holding up her hands and chuckling nervously. "Oh, I don't play guitar! I mean I can play a few notes on the flute but I can't play guitar,"
Jagged frowned and began to play sadly, causing Marinette to frown. Alya gently grabbed her arm and gestured towards where Adrien and Luka were stood, making Marinette smile as she got what she meant. Luka was the perfect choice for this. She grinned but then she saw how Luka looked. He was pale and nervous which seemed completely out of character for him. Honestly, he looked really uncomfortable like he wanted to get away from there but if he did, it would draw attention to him. She frowned as she glanced back at Jagged.
"Wait! I know the perfect musician for you, Jagged," She stated, causing Alya to give her a thumb up and Luka to look even more worried. She gave him a reassuring smile as if to say she wasn't going to put him in the spot light before walking over to Adrien and Luka, who gave her an expression that was basically asking her to not to suggest him. It confused her a little.
"Really? You rock, Marinette," Jagged grinned as she smiled.
"I'm sure you know Adrien Agreste," She grinned, gesturing to him instead of Luka. Alya gasped in shock and faced palmed but Marinette didn't care. She didn't miss the look of relief on Luka's face as she drew Jagged's attention to Adrien. He smiled nervously as he waved at Jagged. "He's a wonderful musician and would be perfect as your guitarist,"
"Well, I know a few chords but I'm more of a pianist to be honest," Adrien admitted nervously, making Marinette frown as Alya shook her head in disbelief, along with everyone else. Even Jagged looked unsure.
"Uh? You sure?" He asked, making Marinette frown. "What about Anarka's lad? Don't you think he's better equipped for the job?"
Marinette glanced over at Luka, who was back to look like he was worried. He looked back at her with eyes asking her not to agree with Jagged. While she didn't understand the sudden discomfort towards his normally favorite musician, she wasn't going to force him into a situation which he clearly wanted to avoid. She did her best to give him a reassuring smile before turning back to Jagged.
"Of course! You're right, Jagged," She smiled, making Alya sigh with relief and Luka freeze up with fear. She would definitely have to ask him why he was acting this way later but right now, she had to convince Jagged that he wasn't the right choice. She moved over to him, causing him to frown a little as she placed her hand on his shoulder. "Luka can let Adrien borrow his guitar! Can't you, Luka?"
Relief and gratefulness filled his eyes as he smiled a little before he took off his guitar.
"If you like, Marinette," He replied, causing Alya to face palm as the girl squad sighed. He walked over to Adrien and handed him his guitar, shocking Adrien a little as he took it. "Put it to good use,"
"Uh... I'll try my best... Thanks," Adrien smiled brightly as Marinette grinned, proud of herself. The girl squad might think her crush got in the way of Luka been able to play with Jagged but she didn't care what they thought. She couldn't just let Luka be that uncomfortable and the fact that no one else saddened her a little but she had his back. He was her friend. There was no way she was just gonna stay back and leave him to the sharks so to speak.
"Jagged Stone!" An angry voice suddenly shouted, getting everyone's attention. Marinette gasped as she looked at the woman it belonged too. She was dressed like a classic Mexican musician but her outfit also seemed to be themed to Día de los Muertos as her face resembled a skull and her jacket had yellow bones on the collar and the hem. Her eyes were purple and yellow and she had music notes on her mouth and for eyebrows. Honestly, she was one of Hawkmoth's more creative akumas but she was also one of his more dangerous ones. Both her and Luka narrowed their eyes as they took her in. Desperada. She narrowed her eyes as she glared at them before she looked over at Jagged. "So you fire me and now you want to replace me with a school kid?!"
"Vivica?" Jagged questioned as she glared at Adrien. Kagami instantly moved her arm in front of him as Luka frowned. Marinette frowned as well as she needed to escape and turn into Lady Noir. "Is that you?"
"There ain't no more Vivica!" She declared, grinning. "There's only Desperada now!"
She held up her guitar-case and clicked it open, revealing that it was glowing on the inside. She reached inside and took out a trombone that resembled a sniper rifle before grinning evilly at Jagged Stone.
"If I can't be your guitarist anymore, I'm gonna make sure no one can!" She declared before kneeling down and pointing her weapon at Adrien, who gasped but before anyone could do anything, Anarka stormed back over.
"Aha! You ship rat!" She gasped, pointing at Jagged.
"Mum!" Luka hissed with a worried expression as everyone else just look bewildered. However, she ignored him and glared at Jagged.
"I knew you were lying!" She gasped before pointing to Desperada. "Vivica didn't leave you! You dropped her, just like you dropped me before!"
"What?!" Desperada growled as Jagged looked away, covering his face. "You were placing to replace me with her?!"
"Hey! I'm a much better guitarist then you!" Anarka growled, causing Luka to rush to her.
"Mum, just leave it," He gasped, trying to pull her away but she yanked free from him and pointed up at Desperada as she glared at her.
"And I was his first choice!" She declared, yanking away from Luka as he tried to get her to calm down but before he could, Vivica jumped down and shot her with her gun, causing her to disappear in yellow smoke. A sticker resembling Anarka appeared on her guitar case as she pointed her gun at Luka, smirking.
"I never miss a musical note," She grinned as Luka glanced around to find a way out of it. "I always hit my targets,"
She went to pull the trigger but Adrien knocked him down, causing her to miss. She went to fire at them both but Kagami grabbed the mic stand and charged at her. Desperada shot her, turning her into a sticker before she fired at Rose and Juleka as Adrien pulled Luka to his feet. The two of them ran off as Marinette rushed into the boat. Adrien ran towards the boat's control room but Luka grabbed his arm and shook his head.
"If we hide there, we'll be sitting ducks," He replied, making the boy frown before he nodded. The two of them rushed over to the gangplank but Desperada jumped down and landed in front of them, pointing her gun at Adrien.
"Where you running to, Wannabe?!" She grinned at him.
"Stop it, Vivica!" Jagged shouted, making her look at him. "You're giving Rock'n'roll a bad name-"
She growled and shot him with her gun, causing Penny to come out of the tour bus. Desperada shot her too before turning back to Luka and Adrien. She spun her gun and went to shoot them but a baton flew at her and knocked her into the tour bus, causing her to drop her gun that disappeared when it landed on the ground. The baton flew back over to Lady Noir who caught it and grinned as she spun it.
"I might not play the guitar but I have a lovely singing voice," She grinned as Desperada got up and reached into her bag. "Care for a duet?"
"Solo!" She declared, taking out a literal guitar axe before charging at Lady Noir, who smirked and ran at her. She dodged Deseperada's axe and hit her with her baton. Seeing a chance to get away from the scene, Luka grabbed Adrien's hand and pulled him over to one of the brick walls, hiding behind it with him. He frowned to himself because he couldn't ditch Adrien, even if he did need to transform. Adrien would find it weird and out of character so he would have to wait until an opportunity came up. He turned to him and gave him a reassuring smile.
"We'll be safe here," He stated, making Adrien sigh in relief.
"Thank you, Luka," Adrien mumbled as the two of them glanced over to where Lady Noir and Desperada was fighting. Desperada dived at her with her axe but luckily, Lady Noir moved out of the way. Luka frowned as Desperada stalked towards her as she tried to move away. Desperada was clearly giving her a run for her money. She said something to Hawkmoth before running towards Lady Noir and slicing at her. Once again, she was able to move, causing Desperada to cut a car in half before she spun round and tried to hit her again. Luka frowned deeply as Lady Noir jumped and dodged her attacks. "Where's Anatis?"
"I don't think he's going to get here in time," Luka mumbled, making Adrien frown before his luck vision lit up his guitar. "We have to help Lady Noir... May I?"
He gestured to his guitar that Adrien was holding before the blonde nodded and handed it to him. Luka put it on and stepped out, playing the guitar. It distracted Desperada, causing her to growl in annoyance.
"Another new guitarist?!" She shouted, taking out duel wielding bicycle horns and began to shooting at them. One of them almost hit Luka but Adrien dived on him, knocking him out of the way again as Lady Noir dodged them. She jumped at Desperada and grabbed her around the waist before throwing her on the bridge and diving at her.
"Cataclysm!" She shouted, slamming her hand on the bridge and causing it to collapse on Desperada. Lady Noir jumped back over to the boys and grinned. "Thanks for the assist, boys but we need to get you two somewhere safe,"
"Over there," Luka pointed to a manhole as his luck vision pointed it up.
"Good thinking," Lady Noir grinned as the three of them ran towards it. She opened it, allowing them to climb down into the sewers. She closed it behind her then they ran farther into it until they felt they were safe. Once they stopped, she turned to Luka. "You shouldn't have put yourself in danger like that, Luka. You could have been captured,"
He frowned a little as she generally looked worried before she glanced to the side and smiled shyly.
"But thank you," She smiled, pushing a strand of loose hair behind her ear. Luka smiled softly as Adrien looked between the two of them.
"You can always count on us whenever you need help," Luka mumbled, causing her to blush as he strummed his guitar, causing both Adrien and Lady Noir to look at him in amazement.
"I appreciate it," She smiled before sighing. "But when dealing with a super villain, it's best to have a partner with superpowers. Speaking of which-"
She took out her baton and dialed Anatis' yoyo, sighing as it went to voicemail.
"I hope he's ok," She mumbled, closing it but jumping as her ring beeped. "Oh no. I need to charge my kwami... but I can't leave you too..."
"Maybe there's a place in here we can hide while you charge up your kwami," Luka suggested, making her nod. "That way, we're safe but your identity isn't compromised,"
"Good thinking, Luka," She smiled, taking out her baton again and checking the blueprints of the sewer. "Ah ha! There's an old locker room that we can hide in. Come on!"
The three of them ran as fast as they could to the room as they heard Desperada playing her guitar up on the street as she looked for them. The good news is she had no idea they were down in the sewers but Luka still needed to get away from Lady Noir and Adrien. He began to slow down, causing Lady Noir to stop and look at him.
"Luka?" She asked, concerned. It was going to be hard to get away from her but he had an idea. He gave her a smile before jogging towards her as her ring beeped again.
"Sorry, got distracted," He smiled as they came to the door. He opened it and glanced around at the room. There were several lockers. Lady Noir rushed over to her as her ring beeped rapidly and slipped inside, closing the door. A bright green light flashed from inside literally seconds before, causing her to let out a sigh of relief. Adrien frowned and opened one as Luka glanced around before taking out his phone and going on the akuma app. Naturally, he had no service. "Damn it,"
"What's wrong?" Lady Noir asked from her locker.
"I was going to activate the akuma alert in case Anatis doesn't know there is one but there's no signal," He grumbled as Adrien took out his phone.
"Yeah, I've got no signal either," He sighed before looking up. "We'd need to be out of the sewer to do it,"
"I'll go," Luka stated, making him look at him as Lady Noir protested. "If Adrien goes, it will alert her since she's after him,"
"Well, wait until I've transformed and I'll come with you," Lady Noir stated. Luka frowned and shook his head, even though she couldn't see it.
"No, there's still a chance she might come down into the sewers. If you're with me, that leaves Adrien a sitting duck," He replied, causing her to sigh.
"Luka has a point, Lady Noir,"
"Alright... just please be careful,"
"I will, Ki- uh- Lady Noir," He coughed, mentally scolding himself for almost calling her kitten before he took off his guitar and handed it to Adrien, who gave him a confused look. "Having my guitar with me will just draw more attention so look after it for me?"
"Sure, Luka," Adrien smiled, getting a nod of Luka before he exited the room and ran through the sewers. He stopped a good distance away and glanced behind him, making sure they weren't following him. Seeing he was alone, he opened his jacket, allowing Tikki to fly out.
"That was some clever thinking, Luka," She grinned, making him smile.
"Yeah but now is the time for Anatis to appear," He replied, swiping his earring. "Tikki! Spots on!"
He transformed into Anatis and took out his yoyo, checking to seeing if he had a signal and if Lady Noir's baton was active. Luckily he had a signal but Lady Noir's baton wasn't online, meaning she hadn't transformed back yet. He frowned but ran towards the locker room. He jumped a little as his yoyo buzzed, giving him a notification that Lady Noir's baton was back online. He closed it and ran towards the locker room he had left them in before knocking on the door, causing it to open. Lady Noir let out a sigh of relief and hugged him.
"Oh, thank kwami, you're here," Lady Noir gasped. "I thought you had been captured but how did you get here so quickly? Did Luka activate the akuma app? Is he ok?"
"Luka's safe," He replied, taking out his yoyo and showing her the map and the GPS signal. "I was on my way to find you but it disappeared, just as I got in here. Luckily, I ran into Luka and he told me where you were. I suggested that he should go hide in another part of the sewer,"
"Good idea," Lady Noir nodded. "She isn't really after him anyway so he should be safe,"
"Yeah," He nodded, glancing at Adrien. "Are you ok, Adrien?"
"I'm fine but I was thinking I could help you two," He replied, making both of them look at him in surprise. "Me and Ryuko fought Desperada before so I might be able to help,"
Both of them looked at each other with unsure expressions, causing Adrien to step forward.
"Look, I know you don't trust me and I get it but I really regret giving up my miraculous and this is my chance to prove that I am a useful ally so please, I'm begging you," He gasped, getting on his knees and putting his hands together. "Please, let me help Anatis,"
"I... uh..." He gasped, unsure before glancing to Lady Noir, who gestured to an area away from Adrien. Anatis walked over to her and folded his arms. "What do you think?"
"Well, he does have experience with Desperada and using the snake would be effective," She replied, making him nod.
"I could always use it though,"
"Hmm... well, as much I want to see your Red Mamba look and have no doubt that you could do it, this could be a chance for Adrien to make up for his mistake. I do think he regrets it," She replied, making him pull a thinking face. "Plus this way, you can focus on how to defeat her without having to be distracted. The snake needs someone to observe the battle and while I don't doubt you could do it while trying to defeat Desperada, it isn't like Style Queen. I'm here this time and we have someone who is able to use the snake miraculous,"
"True..." He mumbled, thinking back to the after mass of Style Queen. It had tired him out for a few hours which was part the reason why he was so snappy when he lost the bee miraculous. "And it is draining..."
"Maybe we could see what the lucky charm said," She suggested, making him nod at the idea. After all, if they really needed the extra miraculous, the lucky charm would tell them.
"Good thinking as usual, Kitten," He smiled before throwing his yoyo in the air. "Lucky charm!"
He frowned in slight confusion as he caught a gong. He glanced at it before nodding.
"Looks like Tikki agrees that we need the extra help. Are you ok if I go?" He replied, causing Lady Noir nod before fixing it onto his belt and walking over to Adrien as Lady Noir followed. "Can I borrow that?"
He pointed to the guitar, making Adrien frown.
"It's Luka's..." He mumbled, holding it. "He asked me to take good care of it,"
"I'll look after it," He reassured, causing Adrien to sigh and hand it over to him. He put it around his torso. "Lady Noir will stay with you while I go and grab the snake miraculous. Do not leave here until I return,"
"I won't," He gasped, nodding. Anatis nodded back and ran out of the door. He found his way to the surface and smirked as his luck vision lit up a statue of a horse and some pigeons. He moved over and placed the guitar around the horse state, gently touching it.
"I'm sorry but this has to be done," He whispered to it before walking over to Mr Ramier, who looked up at him in surprise. "Could I borrow that bread?"
"S-Sure," He replied, handing it to him. Anatis went back over to the guitar and fixed the bread in it, causing the pigeons to fly over to it before he jumped up to the roofs and ran to Master Fu's. The pigeons would help distract Desperada while he got the snake miraculous. He jumped down into an allyway and dropped his transformation before heading into Master Fu's shop.
"Master Fu?" He called out as he walked in.
"Ah, Luka, did the lucky charm bring you here?" Master Fu asked as he looked up from his drink. Luka nodded and knelt down as Tikki floated near him. He gave her a macaron as Master Fu walked over to the phonograph and took out the miracle box. He carried it over to Luka and opened it, causing the compartments to pop out. "Luka Couffaine, you must pick an ally to fight along side you in this mission but choose carefully. Such powers are meant to serve the greater good and once the mission is over, you must return the miraculous to me,"
"Desperada is fast and clever. With her, there is no second chance," Luka mumbled before grabbing the snake miraculous. "So we need to make one,"
"Are you certain?" Master Fu asked, causing Luka to nod as he got up and grabbed a smaller box. "You know how dangerous merging Miraculous is,"
"That's why I'm not going to be wearing it, Master," He replied, making Master Fu raise an eyebrow as he placed it in the box. "This isn't like Style Queen. Lady Noir isn't compromised and I need to have my full attention on Desperada. I can't do that as Red Mamba this time so it's time to bring Aspik out of retirement,"
"Are you sure?" Master Fu asked, shocked as Luka nodded. "But he gave up the snake miraculous before and-"
"He knows how to use it," He pointed out, making Master Fu listen. "Look, I know he gave it up and I know why but he has more experience with Desperada then I do. Sure, I'll deal with her as part of Princess Justice's attack but I was more focused on Princess Justice that time and I had other akumas which I was about to use to trap her. This time I don't,"
"Well... I trust your choice," Master Fu smiled. "You've chose good people as allies and if you think Aspik is capable of been a good ally then that's good enough for me but make sure he doesn't betray your trust,"
"Oh, don't worry, Master Fu," He smiled. "I may be giving him a second chance but I won't hesitate to tie him up again if I have to,"
~Meanwhile in the Sewers~
"So... are you and Anatis a couple?" Adrien asked, causing Lady Noir to blush a little but she shook her head. "Really? But you two would make a great couple,"
"He's in love with someone else," She replied, looking down a little as he frowned before she looked up and smiled. "But that's ok cause I just want him to be happy,"
"That's very sweet of you," He smiled dreamily before giving her a cheeky grin. "But I still totally ship you too,"
"T-that's nice," She blushed, pressing her fingers together. "What about you? You got a special someone?"
"Yeah, I do," He smiled shyly.
"Oh, what's she like then?" She grinned, giving him a playful wink. He laughed and glanced upwards.
"She's really special and really pretty," He sighed, dreamily. "She had dark silky hair and dark mysterious eyes. She's really intelligent and creative too,"
"Oh wow, she sounds awesome," Lady Noir smiled but she couldn't help but notice he basically described her. Well, Marinette. Though she wasn't sure about the mysterious eyes. However, creative, intelligence, dark silky hair. That definitely matched her. "Do-Do I know her?"
"Actually, yeah," He smiled, playing with his finger on his fingers. "It's Kagami,"
"Kagami?" She gasped, frowning. So it wasn't her but he didn't seem to notice her expression as he nodded. "Cool,"
"Can you keep a secret?" He asked, making her give him a look and gestured to herself. He laughed a little. "Of course, you can. You have a secret identity..."
"Exactly," She grinned. "So what's the secret?"
"Me and Kagami are actually dating," He smiled happily. She felt her heart break a little but to her surprise, it didn't hurt as badly as she thought it would. "We've been keeping it a secret but honestly, I'm just so happy to be with her that I had to tell someone. My father actually approves of her and she's honestly great. I hope you don't mind that I told you,"
"N-No, not at all," She smiled, holding up her hands. "It's great that you feel that way about her,"
"That's one of the reasons why I need to help you defeat Desperada," He mumbled, frowning. "She took Kagami,"
"And we'll get her back... I promise," She smiled, placing her hand on his shoulder. "But you know if you love been with her so much, why keep it a secret?"
"Well, it was to see if we felt comfortable in each other's company. You know like testing the water plus there's the fact that I'm famous. I guess we want a bit of peace before the fan girls freak out," He replied as the door opened and Anatis came back in, closing the door behind him. He glanced over at Lady Noir as he walked over to them, who gave him her best smile.
"You ok?" He asked, making her nod.
"I'm fine," She smiled. "We were just talking about people who are special to us,"
"Oh?" He asked, slightly worried as she smiled.
"Don't worry, Annie," She grinned. "I only told him about you,"
"Oh so you have someone else who is special to you then?" He teased, knowing full well she did. She giggled.
"Maybe," She replied, popping the e at the end as he shook his head.
"Let's focus, kitten," He replied before taking out the small box. Adrien gasped as he looked at it but Anatis didn't make to give it to him yet. Instead, he had a very serious expression on his face. "Before I give this to you, Adrien, I want to make something clear. This is not a permanent thing and you will return it to me once we have defeated Desperada. You will also follow our lead and listen to us. Me and Lady Noir are equals and therefore you will show her the same respect as you are to show me. If you don't then I will tie you up like I did with Kung Food. Is that understood?"
"Y-Yes," Adrien gulped, causing Anatis to smirk and nod.
"Good," He replied before holding out to the box to him. "Adrien Agreste, this is the miraculous of snake which grants the power of second chance. You will use it for the greater good,"
"Right," Adrien smiled before taking it and looking at it.
"Once we defeat the super villain, you will return the miraculous to me," Anatis declared as Lady Noir leaned against him. "Can we trust you to help us with this mission?"
"Yes! Anatis, Lady Noir... I will do my best," He smiled, opening the box. A green ball of light appeared and turned into Sass, causing Adrien to smile. "Sass... it's been too long.."
"Greetings, Adrien. It is nice to see you," Sass replied before glancing over at Anatis and Lady Noir. "Hello, Lady Noir. It's nice to meet you in person. I am glad to see you are well today,"
"Aww, thank you, Sass," She grinned happily before he floated over to Anatis, who held out his hand.
"Master Anatis, are you sure that this is a good idea?" He asked, sitting on his hand. "While me and Adrien have reached an understanding, he still made his choice,"
"I'm sure that this is the right path, Sass," He smiled, causing Adrien to smile. "I'm willing to give him a second chance but I have already given him a warning,"
"Very well, Master Anatis, I trust your judgement," He smiled before floating over to Adrien as he slipped on the bracelet. "Well, what are you waiting for, Adrien? You know the magic words,"
"Sass, Scales Slither!" He declared, transforming into Aspik before looking at them. "So shall we go?"
"Yes," Anatis nodded before the three of them ran out of the locker room and towards an exit. Anatis stopped them before summoning his lucky charm. He caught the saddle and glanced at it before turning to Adrien. "Aspik, it might be best to set your second chance now,"
"Ok," He replied, pulling the snake's head back. "Second chance,"
"Alright, we now have five minutes," Anatis nodded before the three of them climbed up and glanced but saw nothing. Lady Noir frowned and looked around as Anatis tried to figure out what to do with the horse saddle. However, he suddenly disappeared in yellow smoke, causing Aspik to jump back and rest just as Lady Noir disappeared. They climbed back up, only this time he pulled Lady Noir away and glanced to the Eiffel Tower, getting a nod of Anatis. He led them in a different direction but Desperada hit Anatis with her axe while he tried to work out how to use the saddle. Aspik reset again as Lady Noir got captured. The next time, she fired at both of them when they hit behind a bus. He rolled under it and reset then she attacked them when they came out of an ally. He reset again. This time, she attacked them before he could even climb out of the sewer. He reset again. They tried to block her attacks but she caught them off guard. Aspik frowned as he constantly reset over and over again but nothing he did changed the outcome. It was always the same. Anatis and Lady Noir were captured no matter what he did. He reset again for the twenty-thousand time, bringing Lady Noir and Anatis back in front of him. "Alright, we now have five minutes,"
"Sass, scales rest!" He declared, dropping his transformation and causing both heroes to look at him in shock.
"Adrien?" Anatis asked, making him frown.
"I'm sorry, Anatis but I can't do this," He stated, looking down as Anatis frowned. He sighed and took off the bracelet, handing it to Anatis. "Every time, you and Lady Noir are captured and no matter what I do, I can't stop it. You need to pick a different snake,"
"Adrien..." Lady Noir sighed as Anatis looked at the bracelet.
"How many times did you reset?"
"About twenty thousand I think. I don't know exactly. I lost count," He admitted, making both heroes frown. "I've been trying for months and each time I fail,"
"So you're just going to quit?" Anatis asked, making Adrien look at him.
"You can find someone else,"
"No, we can't! There isn't anyone else!" Anatis shouted, making him jump a little. "Judging by the fact that you have had to reset each time we have gone up there, she is waiting for us, meaning if I go up there now to find a new snake, I'll be captured again and this time you won't be able to reset it!"
"What do you want me to do, Anatis?!" He shouted back. "I've tried everything,"
"Oh, really?! Did you... I don't know... try to tell us what went wrong in the first place?!" Anatis shouted back, making Adrien blink at him in surprise. The idea had generally not occurred to him. Anatis tutted and shook his head. "Of course, you didn't,"
"Well, I didn't think-"
"Why am I not surprise?!" Anatis growled, shaking his head. "I've seen how you fought with Ryuko and how you barely did a thing!"
"Excuse me but what am I suppose to do?!"
"Oh, I don't know! How about use the power of the snake as it was intended to be used? You know to observe and learn from your mistakes!" Anatis shouted back, making him blink. "That is what the snake is for! It isn't just a time loop! It is a chance to observe the different outcomes of the battle, something you clearly missed!"
"Oh, what would you know about the snake?! It's not like you've used it," Adrien growled, making Lady Noir frown.
"Actually, I have!" Anatis shot back, surprising Adrien. "How did you think I defeated Style Queen?!"
"You... you used the snake?" He gasped, surprise. "Well, if you know how to wield it, why don't you do it again?!"
"Because it's too dangerous!" Anatis shouted back before pinching his nose. "I merged it with the Ladybug miraculous, Adrien and I did it because I had no back up. Lady Noir was in trouble, you were a frigging gold statue as was everyone else so I did what I had to beat the villain and it took plenty of tries but I did it!"
"Then do that again!"
"He can't," Lady Noir gasped, stepping in. "When Annie became Red Mamba, it drained him of his energy. It could have killed him or driven him insane. Adrien, that's why we need you to wield the snake. Annie can't do this time and neither can I,"
"But I failed, ok?!" He gasped, looking up. "I failed!"
"So what?!" Anatis gasped, making him look at him. "People fail all the time but they kept trying!"
"Well, that's easy for you to say!" Adrien pointed out, frowning. "You're a hero!"
"So were you!" Anatis counted, making Adrien blink. "But you know what I don't get is why you became a hero in the first place, giving how easily you gave up your miraculous and how you're about to quit? I just don't get it,"
"I became a hero because I got freedom from my family and home life ok?!" He gasped, making Anatis to frown and shake his head. "Oh, don't judge me, Mr High and mighty! My father is a horrible person and neglects me ok? Not that you would know anything about that!"
".... I know more about abusive family members then you realize," Anatis stated in a surprising calm manner that surprised both Adrien and Lady Noir. "But that isn't why I became a hero,"
"Then why did you huh?!" Adrien shouted, clearly annoyed. However, Anatis didn't answer straight. "Well?!"
"Because my family were in danger!" Anatis shouted back, shocking Adrien. "And I would do anything to protect them... look, I get why you wanted freedom for been a hero but if that's your only reason then go home!"
"Why?!" Adrien shouted, making both heroes frown. "You said it yourself. There is no other snake and you can't use it so why should I go home, just because I use it get freedom?"
"Because that's not a good enough reason to be a hero!" Anatis declared before shaking his head. "Adrien, you use the miraculous as a way of freedom is using it for personal and selfish gain which the miraculous aren't meant to be used for. They are meant to be used for the greater good,"
"How is want to be free selfish?!"
"The want to be free isn't," Anatis replied. "But using the miraculous for personal gain is. You weren't been a hero because you wanted to save people. You were been a hero because it was fun and served you and you alone. That is what I mean and I get why you want to be free. Believe me, I understand that better then you think but using the miraculous for your own gain is not how you do it,"
"Yeah, well it doesn't matter anyway," He sighed, shrugging even though he knew Anatis had a point and that he was right. "Like I said I failed,"
"So try again," Anatis gasped, making him look at him. "Adrien, you can do this but you have try and actually help us work out a solution. You need to tell us what goes wrong in the resets so we can avoid it. You can be a hero but you need to work with us... not for us or against us,"
"Annie is right," Lady Noir added in. "We are equals including you so help us and we can help you,"
"I... I don't think we should set the second chance here," He stated, getting a look of both of them. "And she's using the Eiffel tower as a vantage point. She can see us every time we climb out,"
"So we need to take her vantage point away from her," Anatis muttered before taking out his yoyo and checking something. "Alright, I have a plan but Adrien, we need the snake to make it work. Are you ready to try again?"
"Yes and this time, I'll be better," He smiled, taking the bracelet and re-transforming but to everyone's surprise, his costume had changed. Gone was the frankly awful hooded cowl and in it's place was a mask that went over his eyes. It was mostly green and snake like but had a yellow diamond in the middle and two yellow triangles attached to the bottom of it. His hair was actually on show but it was more wild then his usual style and had acid green highlights through it. His suit was different too. It did resemble his previous suit but seemed to be closer to a snake in design then his previous one. This one had a section of the suit that resembled the underbelly of a snake, that was light teal green in color. The section also have three yellow diamonds down the middle. Each of them had a dark teal boarder. His arms and legs were covered with a dark teal material and he had a yellow diamond on each of his elbows, knees and the back of his hands. His gloves and boots were a dark green and he had matching shoulder pads. On his back was his lyre. He had a confused expression as he examined his suit. "Um... my suit changed?"
"Maybe you got bored of the old one," Lady Noir shrugged.
"Actually, I think it's changed because you understand it now," Anatis pointed out. "Alright, let's go this way!"
The three of them ran through the sewers for quite a bit before Anatis came to a stop, causing Aspik to raise an eyebrow as he checked something.
"Desperada is using the Eiffel tower to her advantage so let's take that from her," Anatis grinned before gesturing to the wall. Lady Noir grinned and summoned her cataclysm, destroying the wall and in turn the foundation of the Eiffel tower. The three of them escaped from the sewers before hiding behind a tour bus. Desperada tried to glance around as she held out her duel wielding horns but she couldn't see them in the dust created from the foundations been destroyed. Anatis observed her as she looked around. He smiled a little as his luck vision highlighted the guitar case and her weapons. "Her weapons come from her case. We need to stop her from using them and then destroy the case,"
"So how do we do that?" Lady Noir asked, looking over.
"Not hundred percent sure yet," Anatis admitted, glancing over at Adrien. "Think now would be a good time to set a second chance?"
"Yeah," Aspik nodded before flicking the bracelet. "Second chance!"
The three of them charged at her and began to fight her but she managed to capture Anatis and Lady Noir. Aspik flicked the head of the snake back, resetting time. Anatis went to attack her but this time, Aspik grabbed his arm and stopped him, explaining what went wrong. This time, they knocked her guns out of her hand while Lady Noir jumped at her but she axed her. Literally. Aspik frowned and reset, once again explaining what went wrong. They tried to restraint her hands this time but she created a smoke screech and took out Anatis. Aspik reset and explained what went wrong again, making Anatis frown.
"Then we don't take the direct approach," He mumbled, thinking about what they knew about Desperada. She had a thing against musicians. That much was obvious but she had been distracted by his guitar when he played it as Luka. If they could replica that, they might be able to to defeat her. He looked around in his luck vision. To his surprise, Aspik's lyre lit up, followed by Lady Noir and the saddle, causing a plan to form in his mind. "Of course... why didn't I think of that before?"
"You have an idea?" Aspik asked, causing Anatis to grin.
"Yep," He grinned. "Here's what we're gonna do. Aspik, I need you to play the lyre then help me restraint her while Lady Noir uses the horse saddle and gets her bag. It might take a few tries but I'm sure it will work,"
"Alright," Aspik nodded before jumping up on the Eiffel tower and playing the lyre. To his surprise, it worked, causing her to look around for the source. She went to fire at him but Anatis knocked her weapons out of her hands. She went to grab a new one but Anatis grabbed her arm with his yoyo and restrained her as Lady Noir ran towards her with the horse saddle. Aspik jumped down and used his lyre to restrain her other arm, allowing Lady Noir to slide under her legs and force her onto the horse saddle. She grabbed the case and slammed it onto the floor, releasing the akuma. Anatis and Aspik released Desperada, allowing Anatis to capture the akuma and purify it. He then grabbed the saddle and threw up in the air, declaring the magic words to release the cute. Aspik smiled as he watched the magic swarm swirl around and fix everything, freeing everyone who had been captured by Desperada, who had turned back into Vivica. "So cool,"
"Aspik, time to go," Anatis called out as their miraculous beeped. Aspik nodded and followed the two heroes across the rooftops and into an alley. His transformation dropped and he took off the bracelet after saying goodbye to Sass. Anatis held out his hand, causing Adrien to look at him and place the bracelet in his hand. "Thank you, Adrien,"
"No, thank you, Anatis. You gave me a second chance when I didn't give you a chance at all," He sighed, shaking his head before looking up at the slightly older hero. "Look, I'm really sorry for the way I acted. Both today and before. I got jealous when you got the Ladybug miraculous and I didn't even think about you as a person and I'm sorry for almost giving up today and for shouting at you. I should-"
"Adrien, we all make mistakes but that isn't what defines us," Anatis stated, placing his hand on his shoulder. "What defines us is how we fix them and today, you took a step towards repairing your mistake and building trust with me but you will still have to work at it as I will have to do the same,"
"Yes! Of course!" He gasped, smiling before nodding. "Thank you!"
"We better go," Lady Noir stated as their miraculous beeped. Anatis nodded and jumped up onto the roof with her. He smiled and waved at Adrien as she saluted him before the two heroes ran off. Once they were out of Adrien's sight, they stopped and Lady Noir turned to Anatis, who was fiddling with the box. "I'm proud of you today,"
"Why? All I did was shout at him," He sighed, looking to the side. "You were the one who got through to him,"
"But you could have been stubborn and refuse to give him a chance," She pointed out, making him think. "You also gave him some home truths plus I think you did get through to him. You might not realize it but I think Adrien admires you a lot and he listened to you,"
"Maybe... I don't know..." He mumbled as his earrings beeped. "I should get this back to Master Fu,"
"Of course," She nodded before gently kissing his cheek and smiling as his face went red. "See ya, bug a boo!"
With that, she jumped off the building and ran off. She saw Anatis jump away as her transformation dropped, causing Plagg to manifest.
"Man, I am hungry!" He gasped, making her giggle and take out a block of cheese. "Aww! You're the best, Doll face!"
"Of course," She grinned as he swallowed it whole. "Come on, let's get back to the liberty,"
"Aye, aye!" Plagg grinned before flying into her purse as she held it open. She smiled at him and closed it before running off. Luckily, she wasn't too far from the Seine. She broke into a run as she saw the Liberty near by and waved when Alya called her. She was stood with the rest of the girl squad on the boat. It looked like everyone had been returned.
"Same here," She smiled as Adrien and Kagami chatted. She looked around and frowned a little. Everyone was back, expect for Luka but he might still be down in the sewers. Not that she should know that. She frowned as she took out her phone and dropped him a text as Alya pulled her over to the rest of the girl squad. "Is everyone ok then?"
"We're fine but Luka hasn't returned," Rose gasped before looking at Juleka.
"Well, if he was captured by Desperada, he should be here so maybe he didn't get caught and is on his way back," Mylene pointed out, getting nods of everyone else but Juleka mumbled something. "What was that?"
"I was said he might be taking his time because he's upset," She mumbled, looking at her hands before glancing at Marinette. "Cause of... you know..."
"Me picking Adrien isn't of him," Marinette sighed, making everyone nod.
"I mean I know you have a huge crush on Adrien, girl but Luka was clearly the better choice to be Jagged's guitarist," Alya explained, making Marinette frown. Had she misread his expression? Maybe it had been one of excitement instead of uncertainty but then why did he look so relieved when she suggested Adrien? "Hey! Since Jagged is still here, you can tell him you made a mistake and get Luka to be his guitarist,"
"I'm not sure Luka wanted that," Marinette mumbled, making them all look at her. "I don't know if you guys noticed but he seemed so tense when Jagged turned up,"
"Yeah because Jagged is his favorite musician!" Rose gasped, making Marinette frown. She went to say something but her phone vibrated, causing her to look at it and see Luka was calling. She held up her hand and answered it.
"Luka? Are you ok?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. I was hiding in the sewers but I'm on my way back to the Liberty now but can I ask you something?" He sounded nervous, making her frown.
"Sure,"
"Is Jagged still there?" He asked, making her frown and look over at Jagged, who was apologizing to Vivica and talking to Anarka. That's when she noticed Anarka's body language. She was nervous and it was unsettling to see. She grabbed Jagged's arm and told him something, making him frown and nod before the two of them went down into the living room of the liberty. "Marinette?"
"Yeah, he is," She replied, making him sigh. "Luka, is everything ok? You're acting odd and so is your mum,"
"She is? What's happened?" He gasped, worried.
"She just pulled Jagged aside and went down into the Liberty's living area with him," She replied, frowning but Luka didn't answer. "Luka?"
"I'm nearly there," He replied before hanging up. She blinked and frowned as Penny talked with Vivica. A few minutes later, Luka walked onto the Liberty with his guitar on his back but before he could do anything, Rose rushed over to him.
"Marinette's gonna tell Jagged that she made the wrong choice so you can play with him, isn't that great?" She gasped happily, causing Luka to frown and look up at Marinette. She frowned as she saw fear and uncertainty in his eyes again.
"Rose, I didn't say that," She gasped, making him let a sigh of relief.
"But Luka is perfect for-"
"Rose, I appreciate it but it's fine," He smiled, putting his guitar down. "It's not like it matters anyway. I'm sure Vivica has her job back,"
"But you've wanted to play with Jagged forever," Juleka mumbled, making everyone frown. "And I'm sure if Marinette-"
"I've changed my mind, Juleka," He sighed, shaking his head as he walked off to the back of the boat. Juleka frowned as Rose and the others looked confused. Marinette frowned and walked over to Luka as he played his guitar. He stopped and looked up at her. "Let me guess... everyone is confused as to why I suddenly don't want to play with Jagged?"
"Yeah," She replied, sitting next to him as he sighed again. "Are you ok?"
"Been better if I'm honest," He replied, making her frown. "I'm glad you chose Adrien even if it was because you like him,"
"Well... actually, I was going to suggest you but then I saw how uncomfortable you looked..." She admitted, making him look at her in surprise. "I figured it was more then just nerves of been in front a rockstar. You never came across as easily star stucked and honestly, you looked like you want the earth to open up and swallow you there and then,"
"Marinette...." He whispered before let out a sigh of relief. "That's pretty accurate to be honest... how did you know?"
"I'm very familiar with the feeling," She smiled before glancing at him. "So you want to talk about it? I mean when we first met you told me Jagged was your favorite musician so I would have thought you'd jump at the chance but today... do you hate him now?"
"No, of course, I don't... it just..." He sighed, looking down. "He's still my favorite musician..."
"Ok so what changed?" She asked, making him look at her.
"What makes you think something changed?"
"Something must of happened to make you react like this," She replied in a matter of a fact sort of way. He sighed and looked ahead. "You can tell me if you want,"
"I... I found out something about him and I'm not sure how to deal with it..." He stated, causing her to frown. He sighed as Anarka came over with Jagged. Marinette frowned and looked between them before clearing her throat. Anarka had a serious face and Jagged looked guilty, which didn't make much sense. However, they both looked like they needed to talk to Luka so Marinette got up.
"Um I should... go?" She stated but to her surprise, Luka gently took her hand, causing her to look at him. He looked uncertain and worried, making her frown.
"Stay... please..." He muttered before glancing to the side. Marinette sat back down, getting a nod of Anarka as Jagged rubbed his neck nervous. Luka looked up at Anarka but kept his hand in Marinette's. "Does... does he know?"
"Yes, we just talked about it," Anarka nodded, causing Luka to nod and look over at Jagged, who looked nervous.
"I am so sorry, Luka. I had no idea until Nanarky told me. If I had known, I would have done things differently," He gasped, confusing Marinette but she didn't say anything. Luka frowned and sighed as Jagged sat down next to him. "Look I totally get it if you decide you want nothing to do with me and I'll totally respect your choice but I want to get to know you and be in your life if you want me to be,"
"I..." Luka started before looking up at Anarka.
"It's your choice, Lad," She smiled reassuringly. "But I'm gonna be here to support you whatever you choose,"
Luka nodded before glancing back at Jagged.
"I would like to get to know you but can we start small? It's a lot to take in,"
"Of course!" Jagged gasped, suddenly hugging him before he pulled away. "Sorry! That was too much, wasn't it? I'm just so happy you want to give me a chance but don't worry, Luka! I'll be the best dad ever!"
"Dad?" Marinette asked as Luka went red. Her eyes widen as she looked at Jagged then back to Luka. It made a lot of sense now. Jagged was Luka's dad. "Oh, wow... so that's what changed,"
"Y-Yeah," Luka mumbled, looking away shyly. However, Jagged grinned as he looked at them.
"Looks like you might become my daughter in law," He smirked, causing Marinette to go bright red and Anarka to shout at him. He laughed and ran off, causing her to chase after him as Luka went quiet. He was also bright red.
"Um..." He coughed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm sure you have questions,"
"Of course, I do," She replied before gently moving his hair. "But my main one is are you ok?"
"I'm still kind of shocked about it," He admitted, glancing down. "I only found out because of Sandboy,"
"Of course, that makes sense," She nodded, thinking back to that. He had been upset about finding out the truth about his step-father but his mother must of told him that Jagged was his father then. He leaned against her shoulder, causing her to look at him and gently smile, patting his hair.
"Sorry," He mumbled, making her frown.
"Hey, you don't need to be sorry ok? I'd be just as shook if I was in your shoes," She admitted, making him smile.
"Thank you, Marinette," He smiled, looking up at her. She smiled back and leaned against him a little. They stayed like that for a little while as she asked him some questions and he answered them as best as he could. It turned out that Luka's step father was Juleka's real dad and that the reason why Jagged didn't know wasn't just because Anarka didn't tell him but because she was told by Bob Roth that he wanted nothing to do with her or their child. However, Bob Roth had lied to both Anarka and Jagged. Anarka thought that his step-father would be a better role model for Luka as well but as it turned out, he was violent and abusive, especially towards Luka.
"I'm so sorry, Luka," She whispered, making him look at her. "This must be so hard for you,"
"It's getting easier but it is a shock," He admitted, sighing. "Luckily, I haven't been akumatized from it yet,"
"Which just proves how strong you are," She smiled, causing him to smile back. "Should we rejoin everyone?"
"Yeah," He nodded, getting up with her. The two of them walked over and joined them. Chloe was sat talking to Alix as Adrien and Kagami laughed and smiled with each other, causing Marinette to frown a little. Now that she was aware that they were in fact dating, she could see how obvious it was. Adrien was glancing at Kagami with loving eyes as she shyly smiled. Luka gently nudged her arm, causing her to look at him. "You ok?"
"Oh, yeah I'm fine," She smiled before glancing back to Adrien and Kagami, who waved at her. She waved back as Luka began to set up his guitar to play with the rest of kitty section. Marinette took a seat next to Alya who leaned over.
"So now would be a good chance to talk to Adrien?" She asked, making Marinette sigh and glance over at him and Kagami, who just got up to grab a drink. "Go on. While the ice queen is gone,"
"I don't think I will," She replied, shaking her head and causing Alya to frown a little. "He seems happy with Kagami,"
"What? Girl, this is your chance,"
"There'll be other chances, Alya," Marinette answered, despite knowing that there wouldn't be. Adrien was with Kagami and that actually made her happy. Sure, her heart ached a little but it didn't break like she thought it would. Instead, she glanced over at Luka, who gave her a soft smile and it fluttered a little. "Besides, I came here to watch Luka, not try and flirt with Adrien,"
"Girl, you are something else," Alya gasped, shaking her head as Kitty Section started to play.
"But you love me for it," Marinette grinned back before laughing with Alya.
Sometimes, Luka wondered why Marinette bothered with Adrien. It's so clear that she's in love with him and yet he's completely obvious to this and her feelings. Sure, Luka doesn't think he does it on purpose but the way Adrien acts or his words have hurt her more then she admits. The term 'blinded by love' often comes to his mind but he also questions Marinette's actions when in regard to Adrien. Marinette is amazing, caring and sweet but she loses herself when Adrien appears, which can be a problem. Like right now. He understands that she thought she was been smart by suggesting Adrien plays as Jagged Stone's guitarist, despite even Jagged pointing that Luka was better for the job but in her mind, Adrien was perfect, even when he wasn't. So he gave him his guitar to practice. He wanted Marinette to be happy but then Desperada appeared and now she's hellbent on finding Adrien as he 'replaced' her. Luka was a little glad that he wasn't the one who had been chosen if he was honest but he still cared about Adrien, which is why they are now hiding in the sewer with Ladybug.
"Come on, Cat," Ladybug gasped, trying to phone her partner. "Where are you?"
"Ladybug, is everything ok?" Luka asked.
"I just can't get hold of Cat," She smiled but he could tell she was worried. "Adrien, where are you going?"
"Umm... to find a hiding place!" He gasped. "You know- watch out!"
Adrien suddenly pulled Ladybug down and Luka dodged out of the way off Desperda's shoots. He couldn't help but notice Ladybug's look of admiration for Adrien. It was very similar to Marinette's, which brought a problem to mind. Adrien could distract her. Luka rushes over and pulled Adrien and Ladybug up.
"We need to leave," He hissed at him as Ladybug spun her yoyo creating a shield.
"Luka! Adrien! Get out of here!!" She yelled. Luka didn't need to be told twice. He grabbed Adrien's arm and ran, dragging him with him.
"We can't leave Ladybug!" He protested but Luka dragged him into the locker room.
"We'll just slow her down if we stay. She needs her attention to be completely on Desperada. I'm gonna hide in here. You should do the same," He stated before looking worried. "I hope Cat Noir gets here soon,"
"Me too," Adrien stated before nodding and pushing Luka into one of the lockers, surprising him. "You hide in that one and I'll hide in another,"
He closed the door on Luka, who frowned but it sounded like Adrien went into the other locker until he heard the door to the room, open and closes. He shook his head and opened his jacket. Sass popped out of his pocket.
"Ladybug needs help. Time for me to try out this hero thing," He stated, causing the little Kwami to nod. "Sass! Scales slither!"
As soon as he transformed, he ran out of the locker room and back to where Ladybug was. She was on the floor, pinned down by Desperada with her foot. Luka frowned as he thought it was odd that Desperada hadn't captured her yet. He frowned as he also noticed that Desperada had Ladybug's yoyo. Ladybug struggled but she couldn't seem to get the upper hand. Her features were full of worry as she tried to look around as if looking for someone instead of focusing on the villain at hand, which was completely out of character for her. Luka dkeep his distance as he watched.
"Where's the newbie, bug girl?" She growled.
"I won't let you hurt Adrien!" Ladybug growled but Desperada laughed and then a purple butterfly shaped appeared around her eyes. It disappeared again as she reached towards Ladybug's ears.
"I'll just take your earrings, Little Bug. That way you'll be out of my way," She laughed, wickedly. Luka took that as his que and threw his lyre at her, knocking her back before he landed a kick to her head, making her fall. He grabbed the yoyo, his lyre and Ladybug's hand before running off. Once he felt they were safe, he stopped to catch his breathe. Ladybug was painting too.
"You must be the holder of the snake miraculous," She gasped as he handed back her yoyo.
"The name's Viperion," He grinned. "Any sight of Cat Noir?"
"Not yet," She replied, straightening up. "Thank you for the rescue,"
"Hm. That's ok but you need to keep your head in the game," He pointed out. "She's dangerous and loss of focus could be a serious mistake,"
"You raise a point," She nodded but he held up his hand and sniffed the air.
"Desperada's coming," He stated, turning to her. "Ready to run again?"
"When you are," She grinned. He grinned back and the two of them ran off. It didn't take them long to find Cat Noir but he didn't seem impressed with Viperion. Ladybug caught him up with what had happen.
"So an axe wielding villain is after Pretty boy Agreste and we have to deal with a newbie while trying to defeat her. Great,"
"We'll be fine," She stated before turning to Luka. "Don't mind him, Viperion. He's just been catty... Lucky Charm!!"
A horse saddle appeared out of thin air and Ladybug frowned.
"What am I suppose to do with this?"
"Maybe a lucky horseshoe would have been better for his first mission,"
"Cat!"
"No need," Luka smiled. "Ladybug brings enough luck for all of us,"
Both him and Cat winked, causing her to blush.
"So what's the plan?"
"Well, Desperada hasn't come looking for us yet. Oh no! What if she captured Adrien?!" She gasped, looking at Cat Noir, who merely grinned but Luka began to put two and two together. That's why she was acting out of character. Because she was worried about Adrien. It reminded him of how Marinette reacted. He had to make sure she stayed focus.
"Agreste is fine, bugaboo," Cat assured but she looked panicked.
"Focus, Ladybug. If he has been captured then the best way to help him is to defeat Desperada," Luka stated, calmly as he placed his hand on her shoulder. Her eyes met his and she felt his calm influence her. She nodded and took a deep breathe.
"You're right, Viperion," She smiled. "Thank you,"
"That's ok," He smiled back before looking around. "Now if she hasn't come for us then she must be somewhere else,"
"Up on the surface!" Cat pointed out. Luka smiled and nodded.
"Exactly. If we exit the sewers without knowing where she is, we'll be sitting ducks," He mumbled, thinking.
"Hold this!" Ladybug gasped, shoving the saddle in his hands as she climbed up the ladder. A few seconds later, she came down and took the saddle off Luka. "Thank you. She's using the Eiffel Tower as a vantage point. Let's take it away from her!"
"After you, mi'lady," Cat grinned as they began to run off.
"Cat, use your cataclysm," Ladybug ordered before turning to Viperion. "Our team would be lost without him,"
"Here! Cataclysm!!" Cat shouted, touching the wall. It instantly was destroyed. "That was the foundations of the tower. Bye, bye vantage point,"
"Alright, let's exit there!" Ladybug pointed to a ladder. They all climbed up and hid behind a tour bus as Desperada pulled out her trumpets, holding them like guns as she looked around. Ladybug looked around and nodded. "All her weapons come from her guitar case. We need to prevent her from using them then destroy the case. Ready?"
"Second Chance!" Luka flicked the head of the snake bracelet, activating his power before they ran into battle. The three of them fought against Desperada. Ladybug grabbed her arm with her yoyo, restraining her and Cat Noir charged. Desperada yanked her arm and slammed the two heroes into each other before shooting them. Luka frowned and pulled back the head of the snake before opening his eyes.
"Wait," He stated, getting a nod off Ladybug. This time they charged at her but Cat Noir threw his baton at her, making the trumpets disappear before Ladybug leaped at her with the saddle. She pulled out her axe and hit Ladybug, causing her to disappear. Luka pushed the head back again. This time, Ladybug captured both of her arms and forced them to the ground as Cat Noir jumped in the air with the saddle. Desperada used the trumpets to create a yellow mist around her before kicking him and hit him with her trumpets. Luka pushed back the head once more. This time, he didn't join in with the fight. He decided to observe. Maybe he could find something they missed. He watched as Ladybug and Cat Noir fought Desperada. He frowned to himself and subconsciously began to play the lyre. To his surprise, Desperada heard it and looked around trying to find the source, allowing Ladybug to hit her. Luka smiled and pushed back the head of the snake again, returning him when he first activated his power. This time, he knew how to stop her.
"Wait," He stated, grabbing Cat Noir's arm to stop him from charging. "This time... I know what to do. Cat Noir, you take the saddle. Don't go over her but go low. Ladybug, me and you are going to stop her from using her weapons,"
"Sounds like a plan but she has her weapons and focus," Cat Noir pointed out but Luka smiled. "You have a plan for that too don't you?"
"She's distracted by music so that's what I'll give her," He states, taking out his Lyre. "Cover me ok?"
"We got you," Ladybug grinned as Luka climbed the Eiffel tower and began to play his lyre. Desperada looked around, trying to find the source. She saw Luka and pointed her trumpets at him but Ladybug and Cat Noir knocked them out of her hands. Cat Noir charged at her with the saddle. She grinned and when to grab one of her trumpets again but Ladybug restrained her hand with her yoyo. Desperada went to use her free hand but Luka jumped down and used his lyre to restrain her as Cat Noir slid through her legs, trapping her in the saddle and pulling it, forcing her on her knees. He threw up the bag and Ladybug broke it before she purified it and restored Paris back to normal.
"What happened?" Vivica asked as she turned back as the three of them placed their fists together.
"Pound it," They shouted, smiling before Cat Noir's ring and Ladybug's earrings beeped.
"Time to go," Cat grinned. "See ya around, Viperion!"
With that, he jumped off. Ladybug turned to leave but Luka grabbed her arm softly.
"Thank you for trusting me,"
"Modest and smart," She grinned. "You're the right choice for the snake, Viperion. I'm sure we'll see each other soon,"
With that, she swung off as he watched her with admiration. He had a theory about who Ladybug was and if he was right, she was more extraordinary then he ever imagined.
"Hey! Snake boy!" A female voice yelled, causing him to turn around and he saw Alya running towards him with her camera phone. "Are you a new member of Team Miraculous?"
"Um," He didn't know how to answer. "I'm sorry. I have to go. I'm about to transform back,"
He turned to leave but Alya shouted out.
"At least, tell us your name!" She yelled. He smiled and turned to her.
"I'm Viperion," He smiled before jumping up on the building and running off.
~A Few Days Later~
Luka grinned to himself as he jumped around the skyline, thinking about the day. He had helped Ladybug and Cat Noir take down another Akuma calling herself The Puppeteer. This particular one really opened day his eyes to how evil Hawkmoth was as his victim was a child this time. However, they had saved the day and everything was back to normal. No other bad guys attacked. He decided to go back out as Viperion as he enjoyed the freedom. He only ever felt free when he played music but this was something new and amazing. The feeling of the wind in his hair, the sound of the city below, all of his senses heightened too. It was truly amazing. Even though he had helped capture two villains, he was still getting use to this but he was getting better at it. Yesterday, he had fallen off a tall building. However, he was completely unharmed by the fall. After today, he just wanted to run around to get better so that's what he was doing. It was 2am and he was jumping from building to building. Gradually, he heard the sound of a girl crying. He frowned as he realized it wasn't too far away and sounded familiar. He followed it till he found himself in a familiar place. The top of Marinette's house and there she was crying to herself. It pulled at his heartstrings to see her so upset. He carefully landed on the side of her building.
"Are you ok?" He asked, making her jump and look up. She blinked as she tilted her head.
"Who are you?" She asked, wiping her tears.
"I'm Viperion," He stated. "I didn't mean to startle you. I just wanted to see if you were ok,"
"I'm fine," She smiled but he knew it was a lie.
"I can tell you're not," He replied, calmly. She sighed before looking at him.
"You're good," She smiled weakly.
"Do you need someone to talk to?" He asked, sitting next to her. "I know we just met but bottling this up inside is dangerous. It's something Hawkmoth could take advantage off,"
"I take you work with Ladybug then?" She asked.
"Yeah but I'm still kind of new and only just got my miraculous," He admitted, honestly. "So I've been learning how to use so I'm not a burden to Ladybug and Cat Noir,"
"You seem wise,"
"That would be because I'm a snake. In case you can't tell," He winked, making her smile. He nodded he felt more confident and seemed better with words as Viperion. She smiled a little before noticing the lyre.
"Is that a lyre?" She asked as he took it out.
"Yeah,"
"Can you play it by any chance?" She asked. He nodded. "Would you mind playing it for me? I have a friend who plays music too and it always makes me happy to hear it but its 2am so I don't want to bother him..."
"I'm sure he would abandon sleep to play for you," He smiled, knowing she meant him. "But sure, I'll play,"
"Thank you," She smiled as he started to play it for her. Of course, he wanted to tell her that he was her friend but he knew he couldn't. He had to protect his identity so instead of playing her a song that he wrote, he just played generic but beautiful music. She smiled as she listened as he slowly finished the tune. "That was amazing,"
"Thank you," He smiled as the two sat there comfortably. Marinette sighed softly.
"I feel like we've met before," She mumbled before she clicked her fingers. "Alya caught a small video of you on her blog after you heroes defeated that Desperada. Thank you for doing that,"
"No need to thank me. It was Ladybug who did the work," He smiled but she shook her head.
"I'm sure you helped too," She smiled, yawning. "I think I need to sleep. Thank you for randomly dropping in and cheering me up,"
"Anytime, M-Miss," He mentally swore as he almost messed up but if she noticed, she didn't show it. He got up and waved at her before disappearing into the night. He jumped across several buildings before landing on the Liberty. "Sass, Scales Down,"
His outfit disappeared in a green light and he caught Sass as he reappeared. He walked over to the fridge and took out a slice of ham. Sass happily eats it as Luka yawns and stretches.
"Nothing liked a good run right, Sass?" Luka chuckled as the little kwami yawned. Luka yawned as well before heading to his bed. He flopped on it and closed his eyes.
~The Next Morning~
Luka groaned as his phone buzzed before leaning over and grabbed it. He looked at it and frowned as he saw Marinette was calling. He pressed the answer button and place it to his ear.
"H-Hey... i didn't wake you did I?" Marinette sniffed. It sounded like she had been crying. Luka instantly sits up, full of concern.
"No. Of course not," He gasped. "What's wrong?"
"I just... I just really need a friend right now," She sobbed. "Can you come round?"
"Yeah, of course," He replied, already getting up and grabbing his jacket, opening it for Sass to fly in his pocket. "I'm on my way,"
"Thanks," She mumbled as he left the boat.
"See you soon," He stated before hanging up before practically ran to the bakery, barely saying hi to her parents as he went straight to her room. He knocked on the trapdoor. It opened and he climbed in. As soon as he saw her, he pulled her into his arms as she sobbed. "Sssh, it's ok,"
"T-thank you for been here, Luka," She looked up at him but slowly pulled away.
"You wanna talk about it?" He asked. She sat down and began to tell him everything. How Alya didn't seem to have her back, how it was her fault Manon had been akumatized again, how she messed up big time with Adrien with the kiss and how he had told her that he was in love with another girl. Luka just simply sat there and listened as all of her feels spilled from her, freeing her from the darkness that was within. She cried a few times and constantly thanked him before she finally hugged her knees.
"I know what I did was stupid but I really thought it was just a statue and I just wanted to not sound like an idiot around him but now I'm sure he thinks I'm a creep and a weirdo," She sniffed, wiping her eyes again. "I feel like that's why he said he loves another girl. Because he's freaked out by the idea of me liking him. Am I really so bad that he had to invent another girl? Am I really that creepy?"
"I wouldn't say you're creepy but when Adrien is around, you do tend to go a bit... nuts?" Luka tried to say it in a way that wouldn't hurt her feelings but to his surprise, Marinette laughed a little.
"I go a bit more then nuts. It's like I completely forget who I am, where I am and who I'm with," She frowned, looking down. "I understand that I went too far in the museme but what gets me is he could have stopped it any point. Sure, I would have been shocked and a bit upset but the damage to both of us would have been less if he just went 'boo, it's me' but he didn't. He let me pour my heart and soul out to him and even let me actually kiss him before pulling away then tells me that it was just a joke and that he's in love with another girl, which is cool if he is but if it feels like he made her up... and all those times he called me a 'good friend' but acted like he likes me. We have slowed dance together, he acts like he likes me then does this and honestly, I'm just so confused. Am I just not good enough for him?"
"Marinette," Luka states firmly, making her look at him.
"He thinks I'm worthless and a nobody,"
"He may think that but you're not," He cupped her face and looked at her. "To me, you're so special that you're priceless, like the world's most precious music note. I meant those words what I said that day and I haven't changed my mind. You're precious to me, Marinette and I love you,"
"Only as a friend," She mumbled, bitterly but he shook his head.
"I like you as more then a friend, Marinette. I always have since I first met you and I respect that you don't have feelings for me. I know you're in love with Adrien and I accept that but you should know that you're amazing, kind and thoughtful and that you deserve to be happy so please, don't ever think that you're worthless again because you're not,"
"Luka..." She gasped as he looked deep into her eyes. She looked at him. "You like me as more then a friend?"
He smiled as he nodded and suddenly, she felt like a fool. How could she had not noticed? When she thought about it, it was so obvious but she was too busy eyeing up Adrien to even notice Luka. She felt so bad. She must have treated him, like Adrien treated her. She lowered her head.
"I'm sorry,"
"For what?" He asked.
"For not realizing you like me. I must have hurt you so much,"
"Don't be silly, Marinette," He smiled.
"But I feel like I should have noticed your feelings. Like I owe-"
"You don't owe me anything," He smiled, making her look at him with admiration. "I like you but you don't have to like me back. There's no rule that said that. If you did decide you like me as more then a friend then that is awesome and I would happily date you but I also accept that you might not and I'm happy to be your friend too. That choice belongs to you. Not me,"
"Luka..." She started but he cupped her face and looked at her.
"I'll be here for you whatever you choose," He promised before leaning in and placing a soft kiss on her forehead as if to confirm his words. She blushed as she realized it was the first time he had ever kissed her.
If this wasn't what mash-ups were created for, then I refuse to believe in a loving God.
Dango Daikazoku mashed with "When I'm Gone" by Eminem, both instances of the artists pouring their goddamn hearts out for different reasons. If there is a more embarrassing song to get misty-eyed to, I don't need to find it. If there's one thing I could say that could ruin this, it's this: Damn, Nagisa's voice sounds really different when she's rapping to Ushio.
