#nino kinder

[pygmi-cygni]

writing tip - children

kiddos, ninas, ninos, kinder, whatever you like to call em, they're everywhere. especially in writing! children can be a fun, innocent way to lighten up your story or add opportunities for immeasurable angst.

But i have noticed a propensity for miswriting them. I briefly touched on this in my character continuity post, but I'll go in depth about it rn.

Kids are fascinating. Their little brains work just as hard as adults, but the way they think is way different. I think there's an equal balance of overestimating and underestimating child capabilities in stories, so I'll explain examples of both.

When writing dialogue for children, it's important to note the way that certain milestones are met.

Kids under the age of five are not going to be conjugating verbs, using tense or proper structure. They have just passed the telegraphic/multiword stage of speech, which basically means being able to string words into a sentence. The vocabulary is low, but the comprehension is high. They'll be able to describe things but with a lot of abstract thought and physical description.

Example: John (5 y.o) watches a blue tow truck carry a red car down the road. He runs to tell his father.

Overestimating: "Papa, look! There's a blue tow truck with a car!" (too specific)

Underestimating: "Papa, lookit! A blue thing had another red thing on top of it an' it was goin real fast!" (John knows what cars are at this age; he has passed the 'thingy' stage of description)

Accurate: "Papa, look! A blue truck with a hook on it was with a red car on the road and the red car was on top going fast!"

John is at the age where he can identify nouns and actions, but he can't really put them in the correct order. He might not know exactly what a tow truck is, but he can see the blue truck has a hook, so he says that instead.

Kids at this age are good at descriptions and big picture concepts. If you want to use a kid as a witness in a mystery, this age would be helpful for describing the perp's looks, but nothing specific about what happenened.

Also, kids are remarkably efficient. After the age of two, toddlers/young children can feed themselves and keep themselves entertained. Obviously an adult/caregiver would need to organize and resource the food and toys, but the kids no longer need another person for every movement.

First words.

Not gonna be anything with plosives or hard palate sounds. no -ing, no consonant blends (spider, brick) no k or ck.

Soft vowels, bilabials (m, p, s, l) are all that's really gonna be a thing. (mama, papa, wa-wa, moo, baby, that kinda stuff.) it's used a lot because it's correct.

Toddlers are not busting out complicated words like stegosaurus, ok.

Obviously there are exceptions but by and large, it's pretty simple. Use this as a reference or not, but just some tips for keeping it realistic.

xox bye

[di-daynamic]

@fluffbruary Day 24

Marinette’s groan was muffled by the pillow.

“Oh, Marinette,” Tikki said sympathetically. “You need to calm down. I’m sure you’ll get it done by Christmas!”

“No, I won’t, Tikki!” Marinette wailed. “It’s impossible! And my head – just – isn’t – working!” She banged her head on the wall with each word.

“Marinette!” Tikki said severely. “Be kinder to yourself! Art is difficult, and sometimes you just can’t get inspiration. It’s alright. You just need a break.”

“A break?” Marinette snorted. “Right, Tikki. I only have five more Christmas presents to finish, another commission from the website, three orders to deliver, a speech to prepare, and of course, I need to man the shop and keep an eye out for akumas at the same time!” At the list of all the things she had to do, despair filled her and she pressed her head into her hands.

“Okay,” Tikki decided. “You need to learn to organize.”

“What?”

“Marinette, Alya is your backup as class representative. Can’t you ask her to write you a speech and help you practice it tomorrow? It’s three days away. You have time.”

“I - yes, but she’s busy with her blog, and—”

“You’re busy too,” Tikki interrupted. “If not, ask her if you can work on it together tomorrow during lunch. Perhaps Nino and Adrien would help as well.”

Marinette hesitated. “I don’t know, Tikki. I don’t want to impose—”

“When Alya brings the twins or Nino’s brother over for babysitting suddenly, do you think she’s imposing?” Tikki asked severely.

“Of course not. She’s my friend and it’s not—” She broke off, realizing the hole she’d dug herself into.

“Marinette, you have to learn to delegate,” Tikki said softly. “You can’t carry the whole world yourself. You’re not Atlas.”

“I know – wait,” Marinette said, astonished. “Did you know Atlas?”

“That’s beside the point!” Tikki exclaimed defensively. “Text Alya and ask her.”

“You can’t say something like that and expect me to just drop it,” Marinette argued, even as she picked up her phone and typed out a text asking if Alya could at least write up a draft of the speech, backtracking several times and following through only because of Tikki’s stare.

Within moments a Sure thing, girl, I’ll write it, I have loads of ideas! lit up her screen.

Tikki preened with satisfaction.

“Oh, stop looking so smug,” Marinette said without any heat, relief at losing one of her responsibilities soaring through her. “Now to get back to the needle and thread,” she said without any enthusiasm.

She hated it, but there was no inspiration for a design. The thought of picking up the needle filled her with dread. She loved designing and she loved making clothes, but sometimes, like now, she felt she’d rather do anything but that.

Tikki looked disapproving. “Do you feel like you’ll make any progress?” When Marinette didn’t answer and instead resignedly began to try to thread the needle, she added: “Marinette, you already spent an hour and a half on this. Why don’t you try to get something else done while the inspiration is gone? Maybe some time outside will get you out of the rut. I’ve known plenty of artists for whom that has worked.”

Marinette looked up with interest, setting the needle aside. It did seem like a good idea. “Really? Like who?”

Tikki sniffed and dove into Marinette’s purse as she got ready to go down. “I’m not allowed to tell you, sorry.”

“That’s a pity,” Marinette said with genuine disappointment, thundering down the stairs. “Maman!”

“Marinette?” Her mother looked surprised to see her. “What is it?”

“I’m ready to go do the deliveries,” she said.

“Are you sure?” Her dad asked concernedly. “You said you would be busy with other projects all day. We were considering going ourselves, or hiring someone else.”

Marinette made a face, grabbing the packages and kissing her parents on the cheeks. “I’m having a bit of artist’s block.”

Dad looked sympathetic. “Creating art is always difficult.”

Her mother patted her cheek fondly. “Maybe a break will help.”

“That’s what Ti—thought! That’s what I thought! Bye!” She rushed out before she could give up any secrets. She strapped the packages to her scooter, and set off to Nadja Chamack’s place first.

“Oh no,” she groaned. She’d just delivered the second package, practically across the city, and had spent only fifteen minutes inside. In that time, a snowfall had begun. A warning rang out on all news screens, to stay off the roads. “Tikki, what am I going to do?”

“I’m not sure, Marinette,” her kwami replied. “You’ll have to stay put.”

“I haven’t even finished the deliveries,” she griped.

“No one can blame you for that during such a sudden storm,” a voice came from behind her, and she spun to see green eyes she knew very well.

“Chat Noir!” She exclaimed in happy surprise. “What are you doing out? Is there an akuma?”

“Nope,” Her partner sounded as cocky as ever, swaggering towards her. “I saw a princess out alone in distress, and thought I had to step in.”

“Oh, are you my knight in shining leather?” She batted her eyelashes at him, and saw him laugh.

“Something like that,” he agreed. “May I escort you back home then?” He asked, holding his hand out to her.

Marinette bit her lip. “I still have one delivery to make. . .” She fretted.

Chat Noir frowned. “Your parents won’t mind if you miss one in this weather.”

Marinette shrugged. “They won’t, but I will. I don’t like leaving a job undone.” Even now, her fingers twitched at the lack of control she had over the speech she was supposed to make in a few days.

Chat Noir was giving her an odd look. “Alright. I can help you make it, and then take you home.”

Marinette lit up. “You will? Thank you, kitty!” She kissed his cheek.

Chat Noir … blushed? Shifting from foot to foot. “Yeah, uh, no problem, Marinette.” He took her arm, made sure the scooter had been parked safely in the free parking space (which made Marinette’s heart skip a beat at how thoughtful he was), and then leaped into the air using his stick.

Marinette laughed from the sheer thrill and joy of it. “You know, I thought people would be more scared or sick when I took them like this,” he mused as they landed on the roof.

She didn’t know how to tell him it was only because she was used to the sensation of being hefted around with him or with her own yoyo.

“Well, I’m hardly ordinary,” she quipped in a distraction, but to her surprise, he glanced at her and his whole face softened.

“No,” he said quietly. “You certainly aren’t.”

Unsure what to make of that, Marinette stared at him. He blushed and turned away. “Your delivery’s near the Grand Paris Hotel, right?”

“The next building,” Marinette nodded.

“Great. It’s on the way to your house from here.” And sure enough, within twenty minutes Chat Noir had her on her balcony.

“Thanks, Chat Noir. There’s no way I would’ve gotten that done half as fast without you,” she said, leaning against the railing. The snow was still falling thick and fast. “I need to tell my parents I’m back and that I made the deliveries.”

“Yeah, of course. And don’t worry about your scooter,” he said. “I’ll get it tomorrow and bring it here.”

“You will?” Marinette blinked up at him in surprise. “Wow, I er. . . didn – I mean can’t – I mean don’t know what to say.” She stammered, feeling her heart pound.

Chat Noir grinned arrogantly. “You don’t need to say anything. Your feelines are written all over your face,” he purred.

Marinette snorted. “Whatever, kitty.” She turned to go down, but slipped over the sheet of ice and snow coating the balcony and braced herself to hit the ground when Chat Noir easily caught her.

“Easy there, Princess,” his chuckle vibrated through his chest, and Marinette squeaked. He was strong, she’d always known that of course, but there was something about being held in his arms, pressed up against him, that made him seem all the more solid. “Maybe I need to accompany you down there to make sure you don’t grievously injure yourself.”

“Maybe you should,” Marinette breathed before she actually thought it through. As soon as she heard what she said, she had a full blown panic.

Chat Noir looked as taken aback. “I should?” He echoed in bewilderment before composing himself. “Well of course I should. Glad you’ve seen sense Mademoiselle,” he took off an imaginary hat and waved her forward.

Marinette smiled as she felt her anxiety melt away. This was Chat Noir, her beloved partner. There was no one around whom she felt more comfortable.

“In the middle of a project?” He asked interestedly when he saw the state her room was in.

Marinette cleared her throat in embarrassment. “Something like that,” she said. “I’m trying to make Christmas presents for my friends, and some were easy, but some just won’t come out right.”

“Well,” Chat Noir said as they jumped down the door. “Maybe I can help you.”

“I’m sorry, kitty,” Marinette said mock solemnly. “But I don’t think you could.”

“Why not?”

“Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror in costume? Your fashion sense is terrible. All leather, leather, leather, and not even the tasteful kind,” she clicked her tongue, not mentioning that she found him very handsome.

Chat Noir gasped in fake horror, putting a hand to his chest. “You have mortally pawfended this cat, Marinette Dupain-Cheng.”

“You have nine lives, don’t you?” Marinette said dryly. “I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

She heard him laugh delightedly as she opened the door of the kitchen and saw her parents worriedly whispering. “Did you just make a cat pun?!”

“No, of course not!” She denied defensively, as her parents cried out in relief and ran to hug her and wring Chat Noir’s hands in thanks.

The cat just smirked at her as her parents forced him to stay for dinner, winked and mouthed: “Course not, Princess.”

[temporalbystander]

Okay so... Not entirely sure what this little tidbit will be. Whether as a prologue to the postseason 5 fic that popped into my head or just background for... Whatever I continue from this... Actually no. New idea that just hit as I'm writing this. I've shown how Faybon is with Marinette and Adrien, how he supports LB and Chat the best he can, touched briefly on his interactions with Alya and Nino. I've also hinted at an uneasy alliance with Felix and I may have said a bit about his thoughts on Chloe. Under the cut? How he managed to deal with Bunnyx.

"Stay out of trouble." That's the last thing Bunnyx ever said to him, of course had Faybon known that would be the last time he'd ever see the time traveller? He may have been a bit kinder to her.

As it stood, all he could do was look around at the destruction Strike Back was causing in the city before turning to glare at the bunny peaking out from her burrow. "Would it have worked?" He had asked instead, holding down the anger that threatened to bubble over.

"Yes. But what it changed sent the timeline careening into disaster." Faybon had left it at that, it had been a long time since he cared enough to ask what damage his need to help caused. He just accepted the fact that future Bunnyx knew best and there was no point worrying otherwise, if he could have made a difference then she wouldnt be stopping him.

So Faybon went home, he ignored the giant sentimonsters as best as he could, shut his eyes and ears to the cries of the Miraculous team as they were being overwhelmed, and instead chose to keep the kids from hurting themselves taking too many big risks. Only when the marks on the back of everyones necks were erased by the magical ladybugs did he actually relax and consider that he should probably apologize to Bunnyx when he next saw her... Then came the announcement of the newly named Monarch.

Watching the swarm of butterflies mock the heroes for failing, the symbols of all the Miraculous surrounding the faux head like some kind of bizarre clock, it filled Faybon with equal parts rage and despair. Shards of ice digging into his heart as fire flooded his veins. This was the preferred outcome? This is what Bunnyx couldn't let him change? He couldn't believe it. Something had to have gone wrong.

Over the next few days he managed to piece together exactly what had happened, starting with learning that their classmate Alix was currently going on a vacation through time to keep Fluff away from Monarch. So, yes, this WAS what Bunnyx wanted to happen and now he had absolutely no way of telling her just how pissed he was at her. Well, other than holding onto it for the years to come that is which, while tempting, only opened him up to getting akumatised.

That just left the question of HOW Monarch got the other Miraculous and, while the lack of the peacock during his little monologue gave Faybon an idea, it wasn't until he heard Adrien talking about it to the rest of the class that he figured out just how deep Felix's betrayal went. Handing over the Miraculous was one thing, but under the guise of being Adrien and helping out Ladybug? Well... Faybon was amazed he hadn't been akumatised at all during that week. Most likely because it was when Monarch went silent for whatever reason.

He was tempted to go to London, kick down the door and beat the prick until he was as blue as Duusu's outfits. In his calmer moments he thought about visiting and proposing some kind of alliance, but the same thing stopped him from doing that as what prevented him from threatening grievous bodily harm on Adrien's lookalike. There was no chance he would manage it. Faybon was an average kid and Felix had a Miraculous and some serious martial arts training if his Wikipedia article was to be believed. Felix had outsmarted Ladybug, bargained with Monarch, and got away scot-free. Faybon wouldn't be able to touch him in a million years.

So that left Faybon with no idea on what to do next. Ever since the future Bunnyx had saved him from Egypt, coincidentally enough TimeTagger had sent him just a few years after Bunnyx had been trapped there with a broken watch, he'd more or less relief on her guidance. If he ever got the idea for some big morale boosting party, or ideas for the heroes to help with patrols and catching HawkMoth, she'd show up and either tell him to stop it or ask for popcorn so she could enjoy it. Maybe it was because he didn't really have a great relationship with present Alix, or because she was the one who brought him to the orphanage to begin with, but he did feel a connection with her at times. She was like the big sister he hadn't seen in years but still treated him like a child. Now that she was gone? He had lost the only person who knew what was going on just as much as he did.

Sure she preached secret identities as much as Ladybug did, and was quick to point out just how many times his actions forced her to actually do overtime trying to fix things. But she still let him into the burrow, sat him in a chair, and showed him some of the crazy scenarios that Marinette and Adrien made up to try and keep their secret. It took hours before he could stop laughing over how embarrassed Ladybug was catching Adrien in the shower. Sure it felt a bit surreal watching his friends like some kind of soap opera, but it was nice not having to be serious for once.

So, with all those thoughts weighing on his mind. As Akuma's got Miraculous powers granted by some strange ability that was like nothing he'd heard the kwamis mention before, as Nino had the beyond ridiculous idea to form a resistance and anger Gabriel? Faybon made his choice. He held up his hands, said no, and stepped back. The whole class was shocked obviously, out of everyone they thought he'd want to help Ladybug and Chat Noir the most and had a hard time accepting that he didn't.

It didn't take long for the heroes themselves to ask about it, wondering if he was okay or if they'd done something to upset him. He'd managed to get them to accept that, with Akumas being more powerful and only two heroes to combat them, the best way he could help was by keeping the emotional children of Tules orphanage as calm as possible. Something that took a lot of work on his best days but now had become so much harder.

They'd left it at that and Faybon had a moment to himself to think back on everything. "Stay out of trouble." She had said it with a laugh, like she knew it wouldn't happen and yet.... Surely she knew that was the last time they'd meet? Maybe ever since there was no guarantee that the Bunnyx who left his class would be the same one who went back to save him. If she'd go through those moments they'd shared or if it was something only he would remember. However it went he knew one thing for sure. Future Bunnyx, the adult version of his classmate Alix, had wanted him to stay safe. So that's what he'd do. He owed he that and so much more.

[angelsyme]

It's going to be 5 years this November since my dear mother dies. She had cancer for nearly a year and dies of complications of cancer. I knew she was going to finally leave. I took those moments to prepare for her 'despidida' to a kinder and gentler world. I was really her only solace for her final 12 years with us before she could relinquish duty here and find happiness elsewhere. A happiness that she was deprived of her entire life. And thwarted wherever she tried. I comforted myself with the thought that at least now she could be with Jesus and Mother Mary. Two figures she preached to me about since I was around 1 or 2. But how upset I was when they said they damned her soul to hell. And they even came into my house and broke her beloved Virgin Mary Statue and desecrated the El Nino Baby Jesus. I mean more than just add insult to injury. But trying to put out a fire with kerosene. I actually lost my mother by the time I'm 33. She had a serious aneurysm that left her partially paralyzed and mentally debilitated. I had to give up my entire life to be her sole caregiver, all the while dealing with mental health issues. Please, I do not seek your condescending sympathy. But to understand why I never forgive. And why I often walk out doors and slam them shut and locked behind me. My mother didn't have a single friend for the last decade of her time here. They reveled in her misery and descent into hell. I never forgive.

*visayan curtsey low* ~emmaruth

from pinterest.com

[korrektheiten]

Ninos Robados: Die Verbrechen an den “geraubten Kindern”

Ansage: »Seit 2011 wird in Spanien (seit etwas später auch in der gesamten spanischsprachigen Welt) ein Verbrechen unfassbaren Ausmaßes systematisch medial aus- und juristisch aufgerollt: Es handelt sich um die “Ninos Robados“, die geraubten Kinder. Worum handelt es sich dabei? Ein Berater des spanischen Diktators Franco, von Haus aus Psychiater, hatte nach dem gewonnenen Bürgerkrieg in […] The post Ninos Robados: Die Verbrechen an den “geraubten Kindern” first appeared on Ansage. http://dlvr.it/SpQhL7 «

[bauerntanz]

Gertrud Schaper

Gertrud Schaper „Einblicke. Textile Arbeiten“ Ausstellungseröffnung mit Einführung durch Muriel Meyer, Kunstverein Neuenhaus Nordhorn – Stadtmuseum, NINO-Hochbau, NINO-Allee 11 Sonntag, 7. Mai – 11 Uhr Eintritt frei Die Ausstellung ist anschließend bis zum 10, September während der Öffnungszeiten des Stadtmuseums zu sehen (Di-Sa 14 – 18 Uhr, So 11 – 18 Uhr) Eitritt 4,- € (erm. 3 €) Kinder und…

[der-saisonkoch]

Unsere Kubanischen Genossen zeigen Ihnen heute...

…was Sie in Ihrer Faschistendiktatur, Ihren Kindern zu Ostern schenken können. Wollen wir doch hoffen, die Kinder treffen rein zufällig die größten Ganoven Ihres Landes nebst ihrer kriminellen Brut. https://www.granma.cu/mundo/2023-01-30/fusiles-de-asalto-para-ninos-el-negocio-de-la-muerte-30-01-2023-21-01-01 Sturmgewehre für Kinder: Das Geschäft des Todes Das Konklave der Gewalt bietet…

[fromthe-point]

Winnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg ICE Hockey Club announced on Wednesday that the organization has signed CHL Import Draft picks Michal Teply and Nino Kinder to WHL Standard Player Agreements.

The ICE selected Teply 4th overall in the 2019 CHL Import Draft.

Teply is a 2019 fourth round draft pick (105th overall) of the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks. The Havlickuv Brod, Czech Republic native, recorded four goals and six assists for 10 points in 23 games with HC Benatky nad Jizerou in Czech2 during the 2018-2019 regular season. The six-foot-three, 187-pound forward represented his country at the 2019 IIHF U18 World Championship. The 2001-born Teply also suited up at the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and at the 2018 World Junior A Challenge.

The ICE selected Kinder 64th overall in the 2019 CHL Import Draft.

The 2001-born forward played in 33 regular season games with Eisbaren Juniors Berlin U20 of Deutsche Nachwuchs Liga U20 last season. In those 33 games, the six-foot-three, 163-pounder registered 17 goals and added 24 assists for 41 points. In the playoffs, he added two goals and eight points in five games.

Kinder suited up for Germany at the 2019 IIHF World U18 Hockey Championship in April. Kinder helped his team go undefeated in Division 1 play and was tied for most points at the conclusion of the tournament.

In late June, Kinder attended Los Angeles Kings development camp.

[symwinter]

Saw these at my grocery store and like, rip to Nino

[boyslivingcoastal]

Sun x Sea

[itawonka-creates]

This Jewelry Will End Up Killing Me - Chapter 8

[Prologue] [Chapter 7] [Chapter 9]

The de-transformation was bizarre. All the energy she had as Ladybug was zapped from her system, leaving her feeling lethargic as Cat Noir landed beside her. He looked past the empty stall and smiled, “You did great – Hey!” Marinette fell forwards and into his arms. Cat Noir juggled her body a bit before finding a proper grip, “Hey, Marinette. Feeling tired, huh?” She weakly nodded and he looked at her with pity. He remembered back to his first transformation, he could barely move from all the running he did as Cat Noir. Though he figured it was part of the transition as he never had it after his first time. She carefully brought her back to her feet and cupped her face in his palm, “You did great.”

She mumbled something he couldn’t make out while Tikki landed on the top of her head, “She did.” Tikki rubbed her chosen’s hair and smiled before her stomach growled, “Oh.”

“Do you need cheese like Plagg?”

“No, thank you. I need sweets.”

“Oh! Claws in.” Adrien stood in the afterglow of the green light and Plagg rested on his shoulder. He shuffled Marinette in his arms and peeked into his bag. He smiled and took out a cookie, “Took some with me from the Dupain Bakery.” He shrugged, “Never know when you get the chance to eat sweets again.”

Tikki gratefully took it, “Are you not a noble?”

“Yes, but a closely watched noble. Part of my appeal is my appearance.” He hummed and looked down at Marinette, “It’s hard to sneak away when people fight to catch a glimpse of you.”

Plagg spoke up and was unusually serious with the goddess, “Tikki, he’s not allowed outside. He’s been a caged cat most of his life. Do you understand why I couldn’t bring myself to leave?” Tikki bit into her cookie and frowned before looking away. “I know it’s not –”

“You’ve gotten kinder.” Tikki continued to eat at her cookie and made a satisfied hum once she finished. The three turned as they noticed people retuning to the streets. Tikki and Plagg hid away in Adrien’s shirt.

Adrien adjusted Marinette in his hold to carry her. He left his hiding nook and walked into a side street out of the crowd’s eye. He figured she didn’t want any more rumors. “Hey Marinette, are you awake?” Her eyes opened slightly but quickly closed as she let her head fall against his chest. It was rare having her this close but he felt responsible as the only other Miraculous wielder. He looked around the corner and saw Alya, Nino, and Damian walking towards the bakery. He frowned, “Your parents probably won’t like you like this.” He thought for a moment before whispering to his shirt, “See if one of you can get his attention.”

Without hesitation a red dot sped across the street and nearly toppled Damian over. Adrien chuckled, “And I thought Plagg was reckless.” Alya and Nino looked down at him confused but he waved them off, a blush dusting his cheeks. He picked himself off the ground and spoke for a moment before trailing behind. He looked down at his mantle before looking into Adrien’s direction. Adrien waved him over and looked down at the girl in his arms.

Damian jogged over and looked her over, “What the hell?”

“She’s exhausted.”

“How the hell is she exhausted? We did all the fighting!” Damian clicked his tongue against his teeth before holding a hand up to Marinette’s forehead. “Hey! Wake up! Your parents will kill me if they see you like this!”

Adrien rolled his eyes and shook her gently, “Marinette, c’mon. Wake up.” He looked up at Damian and explained, “This happened the first time I transformed too. It’s just overwhelming, you know?”

“No, I don’t.” Damian noted that she felt clammy, “Hey Tikki, is he right? It’s like she’s having a fever.”

Tikki stuck her head out and sighed, “Yes but the more often she transforms the easier she’ll adjust.”

Damian was satisfied with that answer, “Then let’s go. We’ll tell them she fainted from hiding with you.”

“Why would she faint from hiding with me?”

Damian raised a brow, “You can’t be serious.”

“What?”

“Incredible.” Damian rolled his eyes and just motioned for the boy to follow him. “C’mon. It’ll work. Trust me.” Adrien did his best not to disturb Marinette as he quickly followed Damian across the street. The response was to be as expected, her parents and friends fussing over her. Even Sabine was satisfied with the excuse that the two were hiding together. The two was stuck between comforting their child and checking in on the bakery downstairs. Alya, however, kept moving her face around gently.

Alya waited for the parents to head down before asking, “Damian, weren’t you supposed to be with her?”

“I couldn’t exactly let a clue to the Demon King get past me, could I? Cat Noir and Ladybug –”

“Ladybug? That’s her name then.” Alya nodded and smiled, “She was pretty cool.”

“She was late.” Damian crossed his arms and looked down at the girl asleep in the comfortable love seat. He crouched down to her eye level, “Honestly, if someone just told me we just needed to rip the paper I would’ve done it the second you stole it.” He looked over to Adrien who wore a grim expression. Damian concluded there was a reason why Adrien didn’t advise it then before looking back to Alya and Nino. “Where’s Marinette’s supplies?”

“In her room. We dropped them off before stealing the horses and catching up with you and Cat Noir.”

Adrien seemed surprised, “You stole horses?”

Alya huffed, “We got there and helped, didn’t we?”

“You did.” Damian nodded at her and mustered up any bit of sincerity he could, “Your steal ability saved us a lot of time and destruction. You were essential to stopping the Akuma.”

Alya blinked as she processed his words before looking away bashfully. Nino smiled and patted her back, “He’s right. That’s such a big deal for you! It worked!”

“What do you mean, Nino?”

Nino looked to Alya momentarily for permission and she rolled her eyes. He shrugged, “Alya’s mana-based abilities are hard for her to control. This was the first time she stole something accurately.”

Adrien’s eyes lit up and he smiled, “Woah! Alya, way to go!” Alya smiled back at him and mouthed a quiet ‘thank you’.

Damian shrugged and brought his hand back to Marinette’s cheek. The color was slowly coming back to her and she leaned into his palm, “I don’t get it. Can’t you just continue spamming the steal ability until it steals the right thing?” The group looked at him confused and he realized he was bringing too much attention to himself. “Joking. I’m joking.”

Alya squinted at him and frowned, “No, you’re not.”

Damian brought his eyes back to the girl in his hand, “It was a mean joke. Sorry. I didn’t realize –”

“That wasn’t a joke though.”

Marinette stirred in the chair and did her best to open her eyes. Damian’s shoulders relaxed as he rubbed her cheek, gently providing a bit of stimulus for her to wake up. No doubt she’d be disoriented. She leaned further into his palm as she did her best to focus. “Marinette?” She hummed in response and squinted her eyes, “Hey, can you hear us?”

Alya came up from behind him and gently took his hand away to keep from dropping Marinette’s head. She replaced it with her own and shot a warning look at Damian. She addressed Marinette, “Hey. You okay?” Marinette frowned and rubbed her eyes, “You look exhausted.” She looked back at Adrien, “Are you sure she just fainted?”

“Fainted?” Marinette nodded, “Fainted. Right.” She looked up at Alya before pulling her into a hug, “You’re okay.”

“I’m fine.” Alya reciprocated and pulled away, “You on the other hand –”

“I’m okay.” Marinette smiled at Alya before turning to Nino, “What about you?”

“I’m okay. Thanks. Your supplies are upstairs by the way. I’m going to go tell your mom you woke up.” Nino sent her a quick thumbs up and left to her tell her parents.

Marinette stretched and looked past Alya to the other two boys, “You two?”

“I’m okay.”

“Same. What matters is if you are up to leaving the city today.” Damian sighed and looked back at Adrien, “Do you have an adventurer’s card?”

Adrien laughed sheepishly, “No?”

“C’mon. We need to get you one.”

“Hey! You still aren’t off the hook and who said you were traveling with us?”

Damian frowned and crossed his arms, “As far as I’m concerned you’re traveling with me. If you don’t care for me, that doesn’t really matter. Marinette and Adrien, on the other hand, have to follow me.”

“You’re arrogant.”

“He’s right.” Adrien shuffled his feet, “I think he’s the only shot I have at finding out more about my parents. I don’t know much about what happened and I’ve asked everyone in this city. It always goes back to Akumas and the Demon King. If’s he’s looking into it then so am I.”

“And I’m not about to let Adrien go off by himself.” Marinette’s bluntness caught Alya off guard. Marinette looked to Adrien, “I want to support him.” Adrien smiled, clearly touched by her words, and Marinette smiled her own small smile back. She looked to Alya, “You don’t have to –”

“If you’re going then I’m going.” Alya’s shoulders fell in subtle defeat, “I’m not leaving you alone out there.”

“She has us!” Adrien nudged Damian and did his best to share a reassuring smile.

Alya rolled her eyes, “Adrien, I don’t know how Marinette would survive an adventure alone with you. And Damian…” She trailed off as she pursed her lips together, “I don’t know if I trust you yet.”

Damian didn’t falter in his lackluster response, “Smart girl. Don’t. Marinette should take a page from you.” The girl stuck her tongue out at him before dropping her head in her hands. “What?”

Marinette sighed and motioned for Damian to approach her. He pushed past Alya and waited for her to look up as Alya watched the two confused. When Marinette did, her noticed her soft freckles around her nose and under her eyes. He didn’t give any kind of expression to her as he waited. She brought her hand up and flicked the side of his head, “Be nice. Alya is my best friend and I tell her everything.” Damian could practically hear her in his head as the two stared each other down, “This is hard for me and she helps.”

Damian broke eye contact with an eye roll and nodded, “Alright. I can work with that.” Marinette brought her head back down into her hands and Damian looked to Alya, “But, I get to make any final calls on locations and actions. I’m here to find the Demon King and get back to my family. I don’t want to go off course.”

“I don’t take orders.”

“Well you’re going to learn to. I’m not about to be distracted by a bunch of kids.”

Marinette’s muffled voice came to Alya’s defense, “We’re the same age!”

Nino walked back in and chuckled, “Your parents gave us some cookies.” He started passing them out to his friends but stopped at Damian, “Sabine said you’d have to ask her for one.” Damian rolled his eyes at the power play, but respected it.

“Hey! No subject change! You aren’t off the hook.” Alya approached her and poked her finger into his chest, “You’re alone. You didn’t have an adventurer’s card. You clearly know nothing about mana or magic. You’re walking around the place like you were just born.”

He knew she was technically right but Tikki’s pinching was concerning. “So?”

Alya stumbled over her words before giving him a look only a sibling could give him, “’SO’? You have no idea what you’re doing but you want to take on the biggest threat the region has ever seen?!” Alya looked at him like he was crazy. He agreed with her. “What is your deal?”

“I need to defeat him to go back home.”

“Why?”

“Alya!” Nino pulled her back, “He has his reasons. You can’t force someone to tell you.”

“If we’re risking our lives with him then I think we deserve some answers!”

Damian couldn’t risk losing Adrien or Marinette for his mission. Two gods against one is his best bet. Damian set a hand on top of Nino’s and gently pulled it off of Alya’s arm. “No, that’s fair.”

“What?”

“I said that’s fair. You are absolutely right. You deserve answers.” Damian pulled up a stool from the nearby kitchen and sat himself in front of Marinette while the others watched. Marinette met his eyes, confused and anxious. He did his best to convey some kind of comfort, “I should start by saying your intuition is spot on. You have great insight.” Alya seemed satisfied with the little complement, that was a good sign. “I come from a large family. Our magic is nearly non-existent.” Alya tensed at the statement, as did Nino beside her. He paused, wondering if he said something wrong before continuing his story.

“I don’t know where my family is at the moment. I don’t know if they’re safe. I don’t know if they know where I am. I’ve never really been outside of our land so I’ve never seen my stats or built up for anything in specific. You’re right. I’m completely in the dark right now. I’ve been placed in an unknown location with no one I know. As far as they know, I am dead.” Damian rubbed the back of his neck, “The goddess appeared before me and told me that if I defeated the Demon King I’d be able to go home.” He didn’t mean to feel anything, yet he felt exhausted and upset. He hated that it could be heard in his voice, “I just want to go home.”

The group didn’t say anything at first, simply processing his explanation. Marinette was the first to move, thought small. She cautiously reached out and grabbed his hand. She just held it. Her expression was solemn but he could tell she was still thinking. Alya looked away and sighed, “I’m in.”

“What?”

“We’re in, Damian.” Nino bit his lip and rubbed Alya’s shoulder, “I’m an older brother. I can’t imagine my little brother being lost.”

Damian couldn’t help but chuckle, “How do you know I’m not the oldest?”

“You have spoiled youngest written all over your face.” Alya turned her head to meet his eyes, “I can’t imagine my sisters being in your situation either. Besides,” she spun her body around and gave an awkward smile, “us mana-challenged adventurers have to stick together, right?” It became clear why she was so uncomfortable with the mana topic.

Damian looked to Adrien for more confirmation that he was still with him and Adrien shot him a smile that probably would’ve given Dick a run for his money. Understanding and kindness, two things he didn’t know how to convey so naturally like those two. “Thank you.”

“Hey guys,” the group turned to Marinette, “I want to work on my clothes before it gets too late. We might have to stay here overnight.” She looked up to Alya, “Can you go ask my parents? I’m sure they’ll say yes but I want to warn them.”

“Of course.”

“Plus, if you go out and bring them some of that fresh toad meat they might cook us a going away dinner.” Marinette knew Alya would never pass up a homecooked meal, not a chef’s daughter. “What do you think?”

Alya smiled, “That sounds great.”

“You should take Adrien with you. Get his card and help him level up a bit.”

“Only if I don’t end up like you guys did yesterday!” Adrien shuttered, “That was so gross.”

Nino snorted, “What? Pretty boy doesn’t want to ruin his hair?”

“Pretty boy doesn’t want to ruin his scent.”

Damian watched them gather their supplies and was about to stand to do the same before Marinette squeezed his hand. He didn’t even realize she was still holding it. Marinette waved at the three leaving, “Good luck.” Alya left with a salute while the boys waved as they closed the door. Marinette’s face fell as soon as they were to themselves.

Damian felt awkward as he tried to pull his hand away, “Marinette –”

“You meant that literally, didn’t you?” Damian froze at the statement while her eyes watered, “You meant that literally. In your world, you are dead.” That time wasn’t a question and she didn’t wait for his answer. He became acutely aware of how warm her hand was when she rubbed her thumb against his knuckles. Damian didn’t move, waiting for her to make the first move. He couldn’t afford to offend her. Ultimately, she pointed up to her trapdoor, “Can you carry me up to my work desk?”

Damian nodded and finally took his hand away from hers. He put the stool back to its original place before leaning down to Marinette. He felt every fiber of his mantle that was disturbed by her snaking her arms around his neck. When he picked her up, she leaned her head into his chest. With each step they went up, he could feel her finger tips tap his back. He was careful with her, if not a bit slow, recognizing this was her creative attempt of a hug or some kind of comfort.

Stepping into her room and setting her down was unusually tense as her arms lingered until he was completely out of reach. He waited for her instructions but she just looked at him with sympathy. It was overwhelming. The heaviness of the air similar to the air of the bedroom last night confronting Adrien. Damian grabbed the closest materials he could get his hands on – a pink denim-like material. He held it out to her. She took it with a quiet “thank you” and the machine creaked as she looked it over.

“Your designs will come out great.”

She smiled at the bit of encouragement, “Rest. I’ll be here for a while and you fought hard.” He wanted to argue with her but he just laid down on the chaise lounge nearby. Tikki left his mantle hearing the silence and flew to Marinette’s shoulder. Tikki watched curiously at her craft as Marinette measured and mapped out her designs. Damian didn’t miss the few times she looked back at him but the energy lost throughout the day compacted in one wave of fatigue. He didn’t mean to fall asleep around her again.

Marinette kept quiet after noticing his eyes close and his breathing steady. Marinette looked at the kwami on her shoulder and whispered, “Do you think we can take on the Demon King?”

“Hawkmoth is a human like you and him.” The use of his real name was surprising. Normally, she’d scold someone for bringing such an omen. But how do you scold a goddess? “You did very well.”

“No, I didn’t. I ran away for most of it.” She scowled at the thought of hiding behind some pillars to avoid Cat Noir’s sight. “I don’t know –”

“Are you saying I’m wrong then?”

“Yes. No. I don’t know.” She pouted, “I don’t know how to argue with a goddess.” Happy with her pattern thus far she grabbed some scissors. “I just can’t believe I’m supposed to be Ladybug.”

“You doubt yourself. Yet, you were very brave and quick to action once your friends needed you the most.” Tikki hummed, “You’re going to blossom into someone historic. You and Cat Noir will be talked about in legends.”

“I don’t want to be in legends!” She bit her lip and looked back at the man sleeping nearby. He didn’t move and she felt relief. “I don’t want to be in legends. I don’t know if I’m going to be any good at this.”

“But you’ll have help. You’ll travel. You’ll grow.” Marinette’s hands stopped and she wiped her eyes once she noticed her tears falling on the fabric. “Marinette, you’ve been blessed with creativity and love. You should be so proud of that.”

“I don’t know if I even want it.”

“I don’t think it’s something you can give back even if you wanted to.” Marinette took a deep breath and did her best to focus on her work. “Marinette –”

“I don’t feel prepared at all.”

“I don’t know how you would’ve prepared for something like this.”

Marinette let out a soft giggle, “You got me there.” She sniffed and looked at Tikki, “You can’t hide in his mantle forever. I’m going to need to make you something to travel in.”

“A pouch?”

“Pouch is a rag and strings. I’m going to make you a purse. Much more fashionable.” The two smiled and giggled at the comment. “Could you hand me that piece of chalk?”

Tikki was excited for her newest chosen, “Certainly.”

*******************************************************************************************

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[unmaskedagain]

Marinette’s Special guest

           Marinette still smiled brilliantly. She hadn’t lost her excited energy since she walked into the class that morning and wouldn’t tell anyone what was going on. She just said it was a surprise. And all her friends in the class knew that there was nothing like a Marinette surprise. And Marinette was practically vibrating in her seat, so it had to be a good one, right?

           Alya spent most of the morning poking and prodding her bestie for the scoop. Kim promised Marinette unlimited piggyback rides if only told him. (Something to lord over Alix’s head.) Max offered to update her website design. Everyone offered different bribes to Marinette just so the Bluenette would let them in on the secret. But she wouldn’t budge, not even Adrien giving her his most charming smile and big puppy dog eyes affected her. Or Bustier trying to force the Bluenette to be a better role model by not keeping secrets. She had barely been able to maintain control of the class since the day began, and Marinette came, not that she had much success most other days.

           Lila raged inwardly at the attention the brat was getting. No matter what she did, loudly whimpering over the sprain in her wrist, or how many tales she told about the many celebrities she knew, it would garner the class’s attention for a few minutes before their focus would be back on Marinette. It wasn’t fair.

           The lunch came and went. The kids came back to class enthusiastically, thinking of what surprise Marinette could have for them. Then they noticed that their favorite Bluenette, their everyday Ladybug had yet to arrive. She wasn’t just a few minutes late after the bell. But nearly an hour. Alya pulled out her phone, pointedly ignoring Bustier, who meekly asked her to put it away, and called her best friend. “GIRL, where are you? What do you mean you got an excuse? Is this about the surprise? Seriously?” The class listened eagerly. “Wait! I’ll put you on speaker,” Alya said. “Okay, we’re all ears!”

           Marinette had finally cracked, mostly because she couldn’t hold it in anymore. This had been the best day ever, and she knew her friends would be thrilled too. “My cousins back in town. We went out for lunch. We’re at school now and headed to class now. They can’t wait to see you all again!  See you in five.” And with that, she happily hung up the phone. Unaware of the havoc she just unleashed.

           The class sat in silence. No one moving. No one was making a sound. Not even Lila was curious about why her morons were acting so strangely. Slowly horrified looks appeared on the students' faces.

“RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!” Kim screamed, picked up Max in his arms, and shot for the door. And just like that, everyone was running, pushing and shoving to making their escape. Some went for the door. Some went for the window. Crawling over each other in a heated battle to get out before…. They came.

           After Kim (and Max) escaped, Bustier blocked the rest from leaving. She attempted to calm her students, standing in front of the door, refusing to budge. “I know we’re all excited for our visitor, but there’s no need for such a ruckus. Everyone should return to their seats, and we’ll greet them in an orderly manner.”

           Everyone paused what they were doing and just looked at their teacher. It was the first time Bustier got a mass “Are you stupid” look. And then went back to what they were doing.

           The kinder kids in class, Nathaniel and Adrien, begged their teacher to move away from the door. They were running out of time. Alix cursed her out. Chloe threatened to have her fired.

“No,” Bustier crossed her arms for once refusing to give in to her students. “This is ridiculous. I am your teacher. I demand that you list-” She didn’t get the chance to finish her sentence because she hadn’t seen the punch coming.

           Sabrina, the small, glasses-wearing redhead, coldcocked the teacher, earning surprised looks from everyone in the class, apart from Chloe, who snorted at them, “What you thought I only kept her around because she did my homework?”

Sabrina stepped over her teacher’s fallen body, swung opened the door, “Come with me if you want to live,” Sabrina yelled and led the charge of fleeing students.

           Alya hadn’t hesitated to jump out of the window. She didn’t care if she got hurt or hit her head and ended up in a coma. It was better than the alternative as far as she was concerned. She loved Marinette with all her heart, but she couldn’t do it. Not again. Never again. When Alya landed outside, she booked it. However, she didn’t head home. (Marinette would look for her there). Instead, she fled with no direction mind. She never thought about the friends she left behind. (She could make new ones.). She only spared a thought for her boyfriend. Nino was strong. He’d make it, she thought. And if not…. Luka was cute. Nino would want her to move on.

Rose, with a strength no one realized she was capable up, stacked a few desks together, and climbed out of the vents. Then came back when she realized Juleka never followed but was on the floor balled up on the floor having a panic attack. She refused to leave her best friend behind and tried to get the Goth to snap out of it before it was too late. Eventually, after a well-earned slap from Rose, the two fled through the vents rather than risk running into Marinette in the hall.

Rose was a good friend. Unlike Nino, who blatantly pushed Adrien off his chair and onto the floor, jumped over his friend and fled out of the classroom, all while yelling, “Sorry, every man for themselves, bro.” Adrien had pouted but quickly followed his friend and the others out the door.

Mylene gave her boyfriend a solemn look. She had hurt her foot just last week and couldn’t walk with crutches. They both knew there was no way she could get out time, “Go,” She ordered Ivan. “Save yourself.”

“I won’t leave you behind,” Ivan shook his head, tears burning in his eyes. “Together or not at all.” He promised and used helped her up and allowed her to lean on them as they slowly made their escape.

           Eventually, only Lila and a knocked out Bustier remained in the classroom. Lila was stunned at what she had seen. She looked around the classroom before finally exclaiming, “What. The. Fuck.” However, Lila only allowed herself that moment of surprise before she chose to wisely vacate through the window. She didn’t know what was wrong, but she wasn’t stupid enough to stick around to try and find out. Lila would ask questions after she ran for her life.            Marinette arrived at the classroom seconds later with a bright smile on her face that quickly turned into a frown, “Why does this always happen?” Her cousin(s?) shrugged.

...

You guys can add on if you like and DECIDE your yourselves who’s Marinette cousin/cousins that are visiting. And why the reactions?

 @virgil-is-a-cutie

[aliensunflower-fics]

Marinette’s Big Fall: An angsty Prompt

[ I have had not one. Not two. But THREE anonymous asks for some Miraculous ladybug angst with a pinch of salt SO here you go. Also because people keep asking me if they can make fics from my prompts I will just put here that YES you can I will love you if you do, please just tag me so I can squeal. I always love fan-art and I always love fics based off my ideas just go nuts guys. ]

If you asked the students of Bustier’s classroom what happened that sunny tuesday at 1:36pm they would all tell you it was an accident. None of them had meant for anything to happen and none of them had so much as laid a finger on the dark haired girl. It was just an accident that was all, but still their faces would lose blood and they would shake as they remembered the sight of Marinette Dupain-Cheng laying still as a stone at the bottom of the stairs. If you asked them to start at the beginning they would take a shaky breath and start their tale at the first warning bell of the school day, before Marinette had arrived and when Lila Rossi did.

The italian had for months been telling them of Marinette’s misdeeds and though many were proven to be false it seemed like not a day went by where Lila didn’t have some new to say about the bakers daughter. That days newest tale was about how Marinette had ruined Lila’s photoshoot at the park with Adrien. It was suppose to be a romantic shoot for valentines day and Marinette had arrived at the park where it was taking place with little Manon. Lila claimed that Marinette bribed the child into pushing Lila into the fountain during the shoot thus ruining the whole thing and making her look bad in front of the employer. Now hearing this story the students of Bustier’s class felt mixed Marinette was prone to fits of jealousy but would she really bring a child into it? Some were angry at Marinette for her repeated felonies some were unsure and one other a certain Adrien Agreste still had no idea what everyone meant about Marinette being jealous and while he knew that Lila had ended up in the water and that it was Manon who did it... He also knew for a fact that Marinette was in no way involved.

The debate over Marinette’s innocence would last until the young designer arrived then the class would fall into steely silence all fuming and grumbling trying to justify the Marinette they knew and loved with the jealous green eyed monster Lila suffered under. As they day wore on Alya always the seeker of truth began badgering Marinette trying to get to the bottom of the whole affair, and while Marinette admitted to being at the park and admitted to babysitting Manon and yes she even confirmed that Lila wound up in the fountain she claimed no responsibility arguing that little Manon had just wanted a hug from Adrien and had accidentally shoved the italian. This information spurred only new arguments though they happened without Marinette’s knowledge in back and forth messages when the teachers back was turned. Lila meanwhile continued to weave her web sending her own messages to the class with new accusations and ‘evidence’ something had to give as the tensions rose and at exactly 1:00 when Mme. Bustier stepped out something did give indeed.

No one really remembers the argument only who was leading it. Alya was a good person a bit too trusting and maybe a bit too gullible and brash but she always protected the weak and thats why Marinette loved her. The problem was right now Alya thought the one who needed that protection was one Lila Rossi. Marinette did her best to diffuse the situation she argued that it was a child’s mistake that Lila should let it go. Alya argued that Marinette always had issues with jealousy and that she needed to fess up and apologize. Marinette would no apologize for something she didn’t do and so the argument continued, classmates joined in things got more and more heated in the spur of the moment with everyone yelling and Lila sobbing Alya snapped and said two things she never should have. One she told Marinette they were no longer friends unless Marinette stopped being jealous. And two, she revealed just why Marinette was ‘jealous’ her crush on Adrien Agreste. The moment the words left her mouth Alya was hit with regret, the moment she saw embarrassment in her friends face and tears hot and fresh welling in her eyes she was hit with shame. No one spoke as the bakers daughter let out a choked sob but suprising them all it wasn’t an accusation of anger at Alya for outing her secret that left the dark haired girls lips it was a quiet shaky and broken:

“W-Were not friends a-anymore?” Followed by yet another choked and heartbroken sob.

Before Alya or anyone could answer the girl bolted for the door shaking with sobs. Everyone stood shocked still for a moment before Adrien bolted up and rushed after the girl the rest of the class followed. But they never reached Marinette in time. In her distressed state the pigtailed girl had tried to make a break for home but she was clumsy and clumsier still when upset so when she rushed down the stair she tripped and everyone could only watch in silent horror as the bakers daughter only managed to let out a gasp before her body slammed into the hard concrete. When the students of Bustier’s recalled everything later they would note with some shock that it was Chloe who moved first yelling out Marinette’s name, not her last name no, just her name as she rushed down the stairs and to the dark haired girls side. She noted the young girl wasn’t responding and quickly snapped for Sabrina to phone an ambulance while she continued to monitor Marinette. No one else would move, Alya would cry silently and in horror as Chloe called out to Marinette and checked her pulse, Nino would clutch his hat and stare mouth agape as Marinette lay like a lifeless corpse, Adrien Agreste would fall to his knees at the top of that stairs his eyes like saucers as he tried to comprehend what had happened. And Lila Rossi? She would feel every bit of blood in her body turn into ice as guilt gripped onto her and told her that this, all of this was because of HER.

Everything that happened next was a blur, the ambulance arrived Marinette was driven away with Chloe of all people. The police arrived, Bustier and Damocles felt there sweat turn cold as they were questioned, the other students of the school would stand around murmuring and pointing at the Akuma Class Rose would hear the kinder people ask what happened in hushed tone, Juleka would hear the crueler people say that the Akuma class had tried to kill the one person they couldn’t akumatize. Soon enough parents arrived and dragged away their children Kim and Alix would notice the small patch of blood on the concrete where Marinette landed, they would later puke thinking about it, but they told no one of what they had seen.

Meanwhile on the way to the hospital Tikki was in a panic, her dearest chosen her most precious and rare creation soul was BROKEN so many bones and bits of her body were mangled beyond repair... Well beyond NORMAL repair but Tikki was a god, a sentimental god at that and she would not let heaven or hell get in the way of her helping Marinette survive no matter the cause. And so sitting silently, hidden in the girls hair out of sight of the paramedic and Chloe who was telling them all she knew of Marinette’s medical background Tikki used her magic to mend all she could, she would make sure that her sweet precious Marinette would be alright but while she mended the broken body Tikki knew that there would be a price to pay. Magic always came with a price. In the past when she’d used her magic to heal holders this way some had lost their eyesight, others their voices, some would lose a limb, Tikki had no idea that cost Marinette would pay but she knew whatever it was her precious little bug would be alright.

And she was. The doctors were shocked to find that while Marinette had a broken leg and two broken ribs, some deep cuts that would never fully heal, and some awful bruising that would leave the girl sore for who knows how long she was in fact just fine. There was no internal bleeding, and no serious brain trauma, and somehow she’d be just fine to walk when her leg healed up. Sabine and Tom cried tears of joy at the news and stayed by the young girls side. Tikki was also pleased with the news from her hidden spot where she lay utterly exhausted. She knew still that their would be a price to pay but at least Marinette was alive and well. The bakers daughter did not wake up until early the next day and when she did she was mobbed by her parents. She smiled at their concern and when the doctor came in to greet her he decided to check her memory.

“Standard procedure.” He said. “It’s not unusual for there to be some minor memory loss surrounding the incident itself were just going to check.”

And so the questions began. They started with things like her birthday, and her parents names and ages, then they moved on to recent events, so far no problems. Finally they asked about the day itself and the ‘incident’ in questions Marinette opened her mouth to answer then paused thoughtfully. She couldn’t remember. Not unusual assured the doctor, and then he returned to asking other questions probing gently to ensure everything was alright, and it seemed to be up until the doctor asked a simple question.

“What’s your best friends name? And can you describe them.”

Marinette froze and stayed silent. Tikki suddenly felt a strange twist in her tummy. Sabine and Tom looked at their daughter uncertainly. Finally after a long pause. Marinette spoke with a strained laugh.

“I uhh dont remember having one sir.” Sabine felt her stomach suddenly drop, hidden away behind a plant Tikki felt the same thing.

Concerned by the answer the doctor probed more with Tom and Sabine joining in. The answers were startling. Marinette Dupain-Cheng had forgotten every single person that was present when she fell down the stairs. She could recall other students at the school and her teacher, but all the students of her own class? She could not recall their names or their faces. When her parents asked about a specific memory the first time Nino and Marinette met and became friends. Marinette’s eyes lit up. She remembered the event, she remembered someone being bullied and helping them and then they became friends. Her parents were hopeful and the doctor calmly asked Marinette to tell them who the bully was and who the person being bullied was. At that all Marinette did was frown and hold her head. She could remember the incident but... The faces of the bully and the one being bullied were blacked out she had no idea who they were. They tried asking her if she knew the bullied boys favorite things, she had no idea, his name? Nothing. Favorite color? Nope. It was odd extremely so and the only theory the doctor could offer was trauma based memory lose triggered by stress and the possible incident surrounding her accident.

Later when her parents left and it was safe. Tikki emerged and was overjoyed to learn that Marinette remembered her and being ladybug. Tikki was a bit worried about the holes in her dear chosens memories but she knew that this was the price Marinette had payed. She got to keep her life and all her limbs and eyes but she had lost something precious, her friends, they were now black holes burned into faded memories. And it extended into her superhero life. Marinette knew Rena Rouge she could remember her powers and her skill, but when Tikki asked who she was Marinette could only frown and hold her head as it throbbed. Alya, Nino, everyone even Adrien were gone, Marinette had the memories but no faces, no names, no attachment she had lost her friends. Tikki felt guilty of course and told Marinette as much but the young girl just kissed her Kwami’s head and confidently said that they would figure it out.

It had been a week sense Marinette’s big fall. And the students of Bustier’s class sat restless in their seats. None of them had been able to check up on Marinette as her parents had forbidden visitors and the bakers themselves were illusive now a days as they kept close to the hospital keeping their daughter company. All anyone knew was that Marinette was alive, and while that was great news it wasn’t enough. And to make matters perhaps more odd then Marinette’s disappearance was the complete inactivity by Hawkmoth. It was as if he was busy dealing with something else. Like maybe his teenage son who had been expressing all of his teenage rebellion and angst in a concentrated dose ever sense a certain bakers daughter had fallen down the stairs. Adrien was indeed the most miserable about the whole situation, he’d given up on bathing, moped all day, snapped at Lila for even opening her mouth, and was refusing to care for himself or attend any and all photoshoots and extra curricular activities. Adrien’s rebellion was causing big problems for Gabriel’s business and he was stuck rushing about trying to re-organize events and juggle his son who had become terrifyingly good at escaping the house to go to school no matter what kind of locks were installed.

As the day wore on for Bustier’s students ignored the looks given to them by the other students in the school. More then a few of them blamed them squarely for what had happened to Marinette while others shot them looks of sympathy or concern. The class as a whole looked like they were from a bad zombie movie, but the one who looked perhaps the worse of them all was Lila Rossi, while some would try and argue its because of how bad she felt for poor Marinette others would recognize that she seemed paranoid and on edge with her eyes darting about and how quick she was to defend herself against even the smallest assumed accusation against her. Finally lunch rolled around and like the mob of zombies they were the students of Bustier’s class walked mindlessly to the cafeteria that is until one of them spotted a familiar looking girl though her hair was no longer in pigtails and her clothing had changed it was undoubtedly her! The class rushed forward with a surge catching the attention of the whole school who watched the exchange curiously. Apologies were hurled out questions were yelled and poor Marinette looked overwhelmed silence only came when Sabine stepped forward with a warning look though there was an odd glint of pity and sadness in her eyes. Finally it was Alya who broke the silence.

“Marinette! We are SO sorry, please can you find it in your heart to forgive us?” The Ladybloger was holding back tears and no one had heard her voice that shaky before. After a long pause Marinette spoke.

“U-Umm... Hey listen I dont... Really know what your apologizing for... And uh I dont really know who you are but... Umm sure of course I forgive you! You seem very nice?”

The crowd was stunned. Marinette had no idea who ALYA was? Her best friend? The girl she’d fought with last? Sensing the tension in the room Tom gently guided Marinette away shooting Sabine an odd look. Both parents had hoped that seeing her old school would jolt Marinette’s memory but it seemed that even her best friends face wasn’t enough to bring back what had been lost. As Tom helped Marinette climb the stairs with her cast. Sabine took a deep breath and proceeded to explain what she could. That Marinette had lost... Some memories, specifically relating to people who had been around during her accident... She didn’t remember any of them and no one not even the doctors or Tikki herself could change that. As Sabine apologized for what must surely be a shock she excused herself to follow her daughter and husband to the principles office so they could discuss the situation.

For the students of the akuma class life felt like it had been turned sideways. Lila who had been consumed by guilt had begun to hyperventilate. Alya felt slapped and raw her best friend had no idea who she was and the last thing she had done before Marinette forgot all about her was denounce their friendship. For Kim and Nino their were tears and disbelief the girl that they had known sense childhood had no idea who they were and regarded them like any stranger on the side of the road. For Chloe there was the oddest feeling of heartbreak, now she would never know if Marinette could truly forgive her, because the Marinette to whom she’d been so cruel was all but gone. But it was perhaps Adrien who was hit the hardest, Adrien who had learned that Marinette liked him the day of the accident, Adrien who had watched her fall, who had not rushed to check on her, Adrien who had felt torn by guilt confused about his feelings, Adrien who felt like the world had lost the sun with Marinette gone, Adrien who had wanted Marinette to come back so he could see she was okay and ask her on the date she deserved, and now Adrien who meant nothing to her because she had no idea who he was.

As for the rest of the students of Dupont? Well many of them were overjoyed to know Marinette remembered them at least but they felt pity for the akuma class but many others wondered what the future held. Would Marinette’s old friends try and rekindle their friendships? Would they bring photos and music and videos to try and bring back the girls memories? Or would new friends take the place of the old and forgotten? Would Adrien continue down his path of rebellion fighting for a place in Marinette’s heart once more, or would he return to being a docile lamb under his fathers thumb his heart and mind numb due to the shock of it all. Would Lila Rossi return to her old ways? Would she crack under the feelings of guilt and shame? Or would she go mad and attack Marinette. How many people would forever flinch and rush to offer Marinette help whenever she so much as when near a flight of stairs? Would it be possible to anyone to reclaim Marinette’s lost memories or would new ones need to be made? No one knew. But they did know for certain that things would be different from now on.

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[casadefreewill]

Daily Fic Rec

Just get me to the church on time. By ClockworkCaptain

Summary:

Ladybug and Chat Noir are sent into the future to the day of their wedding. Now they're dealing with the knowledge of their future while their future selves think about the past and all the things they wish they could tell their younger selves while also looking forward to their future.

I’d call this a fun ride with a huge dose of character flaws and “other magic”. This story is written along side season 4 and you can tell, there is a not insignificant portion that is the direct result of lack of communication and LB keeping CN out of things.

The writing: while there are a fair amount of typos, the story and writing themselves are very good. It’s comedic and I never found myself actively angry or frustrated with/hating any of the characters like I tend to when faced with a story that tackles the “ladynoir conflict”.

A huge part of the story is the “other magic” aspect in the miraculous universe, aka kwami are just a very small part of the magic system. This leads to multiple characters becoming creatures and a former creature on the miraculous team and the consequences of that. I love this sort of thing so if it also interests you I’d say give this story a shot.

This story’s main ship is endgame ladynoir/adrinette but there are a few others along the way. I’d say vipernoir/lukadrien is the second biggest one. There is also focus on Zoé x Luka and minor DJWifi (not that they aren’t very much present, they are, and they have their own story that carries through, they just haven’t had a chapter/chapter segment of just them or without Adrien and Mari trying to help them with their relationship).

They did really dial back on Gabriel’s maliciousness. While he’s “kinder” to the hero’s during their non-akuma adventures and I do think he’s written as possibly feeling something like love for Adrien he is also written as kind of crazy and possessive and more than a little red-flags creepy. I do find myself laughing at most of his segments so he was at least utilized well for comedic purposes.

I will say, I think Nino and Marinette get hit the hardest with the character flaws stick. Nothing wildly out of character, and nothing that I think would need to be tagged as s*lt but they definitely don’t sugar coat their uglier sides. Felix is also kept firmly in the asshole category more in line with his first appearance rather that anything they’re doing with him in season 4.

The story is told through multiple time periods all at the same time. The chapters jump around so that all things get filled in eventually but you initially learn things out of order. I find it an interesting way to tell a story and I think it was executed here very well.

The story is currently 52 chapters and still updating and goes far beyond just what the description would have you believe.

[sunflowers-and-mooncakes]

To Dream of a Bird

Part 1 of Dreams of Birds and Angels a series of two one shots written for @pawsitivelymiraculous for the Maribat Valentine’s Day Fic Exchange hosted by @eat0crow!

Ao3

Part 2 can be found here

***

For as long as she could remember, Marinette had been utterly giddy at the prospect of getting to see her soulmate in her dreams that night. As the youngest in her class, she had heard all of the others talk excitedly about the memories from their soulmates they would experience since they turned 8. When her best friend Nino would come over for lunch at the bakery, he would tell her excitedly about the girl with caramel skin and glasses whose face he could never quite remember.

Her parents would also talk often of soulmates. As they tucked her in at night, they would tell her about how they had gained the twin marks they always displayed on their left arms when they first met. Her Papa would tell her about the pretty girl with blue-black hair who moved from across the world, and her Maman would regale tales of the brown-haired boy who worked in a bakery.

On the day of her 8th birthday, Marinette practically rushed her guests out of the apartment as the sun set below the horizon. She leapt into bed as she yelled to her parents that she was 8 now, and she had to see her soulmate right away. Her parents chuckled to each other as they kissed her forehead and turned out the lights.

As she awoke the next morning, the Eurasian girl ruminated about what she had seen. The boy in her dreams had beautiful black hair and tan skin. He had appeared no older than her, yet he wore a serious look and held something like a sword at his side. It was odd, how he behaved nothing like the kids in her class, and yet, something told her he was kinder than he seemed.

She stared out her window as she daydreamed about what he was like. Suddenly, a bird flew by.

Oiseau, she thought, that’s what I’ll call you.

Each night, the Eurasian girl would look on as Oiseau had his katana (as she came to learn it was called) practically glued to his side. He was always either fighting someone much older than him in the same dark garb he had always worn, and later in a bright suit where he battled under the cover of the dark.

At some point, her dreams of him had shifted. He was surrounded by new bodies who seemed much less hostile, yet the black-haired boy seemed lost, and so very alone. Sometimes, she would wake up from her visions and weep for her soulmate, who despite his clear shortcomings was just doing what he could to make those around him proud.

As her visions of him changed, so did her own life. She began to take the designs she drew on paper and turn them into real clothes. She made new friends and began to stand up for herself and others. Most importantly, Marinette became the heroine Ladybug. Though unconfident at first, she eventually came into her own. Being Ladybug taught her that there are many reasons people fight; not all are malicious. Many a time she wondered if her soulmate was like her, fighting in a war they had never wanted to be a part of, but had to for the betterment of those around them.

At the age of 18, she, Chat Noir, along with the help of Queen Bee, Rena Rouge, Carapace, Viperion, and Ryuko ended Hawkmoth’s reign of terror once and for all.

When the villain was revealed as Gabriel Agreste, the whole team was shocked, though none more than Chat Noir. When the older man explained was after the miraculous, Ladybug chose to heal the ailing Mrs. Agreste. After careful consideration, the team agreed to absolve Gabriel of his crimes so long as he put his efforts into charitable works for the community.

Throughout the years, Marinette watched as her friends met their soulmates and received their marks. Many of her classmates had ended up with each other. Juleka and Rose who met when they were 9, and Kim and Max who met when they were 10. At 13, she watched as Nino found his soulmate in Alya on the first day of school. It was amazing watching the two begin to glow as the beautiful portrait of a fox wrapped around a turtle appeared on their right forearms.

Later down the line, Adrien found his soulmate in Juleka’s brother Luka, and even Chloe, who had been nicer in recent years, met her soulmate, who turned out to be the renowned fencer Tsurugi Kagami.

The blue-eyed girl was deeply saddened by not having yet her soulmate. Even when Tikki reassured her that they would meet, she couldn’t help but feel left out as all her friends and teammates found their other half.

That was when the girl decided it was time for a change of scenery. She couldn’t spend all her life waiting around for a soulmate who may never get to meet. Thus, Marinette packed her bags and the Miracle Box to head somewhere she could make herself useful. After careful research and planning, Marinette and the kwami decided on the place that could use a little balancing.

After a day of settling into the Gotham hotel, the Parisian native was feeling insanely restless. The kwami had been right when they said this city needed help. She could feel the destruction pressing down on her since she got off the plane. Being stuck inside the hotel room as she planned her next course of action was becoming suffocating.

Just when Marinette felt ready to scream, Tikki suggested she go for a walk in the nearby park to be around a bit more creation energy. The young designer jumped at the chance to get outside and threw on a baby pink sundress and her purse with Tikki tucked safely inside, before practically racing out the door.

The park by the hotel seemed more full of life than anywhere else in Gotham. The sign posted at the entrance made mention that the area was cared for by Poison Ivy herself. Marinette supposed it made sense that the woman’s domain would have lots of plant life.

Suddenly, a dog’s bark snapped the ladybug heroine out of her thoughts. She whipped her head around to see a Great Dane bounding towards her. She bent down as he sniffed her legs and began petting his head softly. “Titus!” she heard someone call. She looked up to see a man jogging towards her and the dog.

“Titus, huh,” she smiled to herself as she glanced back at the dog.

“I apologize, miss,” he said, lowering himself to be at her and Titus’ level. He placed his hand on the dog’s head, bumping her own slightly.  “He usually doesn’t go running off towards strangers…” Marinette could feel his gaze on her as he trailed off. She turned her head towards him. Blue met green, and almost instantly her eyes widened. She knew that face. It was the face of her oiseau. The one she had been seeing since she was 8 years old. It was like the fog had been lifted in her mind, and the faceless boy who once filled her dreams was now able to be remembered in striking detail.

Taking a moment to center herself, the Eurasian girl took note of the man in front of her. He was quite handsome. She had always thought his looks charming (from what she was able to recall anyway), but now, really seeing him for the first time, was a completely different experience. His black hair was swept back as it always had been, and his skin was the same tan shade. Now, however, she could see the sharpness of his nose, the slight dimple next to his mouth, and his deep green eyes that seemed to hold more secrets than even she, who had seen part of his memories, may ever know.

“Miss?” the boy called, pulling her from her thoughts once again.

“Yes?”

He gestured down at the backs of their hands as they rested on the dog. There sat matching images of a robin flying after a ladybug.

She from the marks to him in shock. “It would appear that we are soulmates,” he said plainly as he stood back up from the ground.

Marinette stood as well and tried to gather herself. “It appears so,” she responded with a nervous smile.

“I’m Marinette,” she held her hand out for him to shake it.

After a moment’s hesitation, he took it. “My name is Damian.”

“Well, Damian,” she smiled brightly at him. “would you like to go on a walk and get to know each other?”

He gave her a soft look back. “I certainly would.”