#dammit Lila stop being so fun to design for!

[zoe-oneesama]

“I’m the decedent of a superheroine myself.”

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#dammit Lila stop being so fun to design for! #my art #lila #lila rossi #ml #miraculous ladybug #kwami swap #goat!lila #goat miraculous #rooster!lila #rooster miraculous #ox!lila #ox miraculous #mouse!lila #mouse miraculous #dog!lila #dog miraculous #caprascuro #fenice #dominataur #multi topi #cucciola

[xhanisai]

Truth Or Dare?

AO3 / FFN

Summary:

Adrien gulped, completely frozen in his seat under the gaze of his demonic classmates, the almighty, notorious peer-pressure throwing a concert whilst his Lady continued to act like that the string on the floor was far more interesting than the fact that her newly discovered partner was currently in the hot seat. 'Now how do I answer this!?' He panicked internally, twiddling with his thumbs and praying to the Gods more reliable than Plagg that Marinette would suddenly come up with some brilliant, top-notch plan that would surely get them both out of this. Especially if she doesn't want him to whimper out: "Ya got me! It was Marinette when she kissed the evil out of me after I got shot by Dislocoeur, hahaha! Oh, do I need to mention that I have no recollection of it whatsoever and that I was decked up in my usual catsuit whilst she was in her polka-dotted onesie? A brilliant first kiss, amirite!? Not to mention that our second kiss was also wiped from my memory, cheers for that Alya and Nino!"

Pairing - Adrinette Prompt - 'Truth or Dare?' ~(x)~ . . . Adrien was fucked. He was entirely, thoroughly, immensely fucked. And not in the literal way much to the teen's utter dismay and painful frustration. And certainly not anytime soon, judging by his princesse's stiff, flustered posture who was on the floor across him, along with the rest of their class sitting in a circle (sans Lila and Chloé, Dieu merci). Gremlin-like smirks were etched on their friends' mischievous faces and sinister cackles escaped their mouths like the Madhatter from Alice Au Pays Des Merveilles. Even timid ol' Sabrina wore a grin that would rival the Cheshire cat. But never mind that. What was the cherry on top was how both he and Marinette just found out each other's identities no more than ten minutes prior. The two idiots were desperately sprinting back to collège Françoise Dupont after their latest akuma battle without noticing the other, only to literally collide into one other and their transformation to wear off immediately, leaving them both with matching gaping expressions. If luck was on his side, the scenario would have carried on with Adrien whipping out 'suave move #9236' and channelling his inner 'Tamaki Suoh', helping his Lady to her feet with a smile so sexy and seductive (guaranteed to win her over of course) and then him proceeding to ask her out for a cup of coffee where they can talk! Then, he would have totally charmed her with another brilliant smile that would have surely fly kicked away whatever feelings she had for that 'other' boy (he named him M. Imbécile), caressing that soft, soft cheek of hers with his hand and surely they would have leaned in for a hot, passionate, true love's kiss (and he'd finally know what it's like to be properly smooched)! MAIS NON. NON. His five seconds of absolute happiness, of pure bliss after finding out that the two girls he bloody loved so damn much and practically worshipped, were one and the same- WAS INTERRUPTED. . The inconveniently timed Ladyblogger and her DJ boyfriend arrived at the scene, practically snatching both him and Marinette away and back to class, babbling about how Mme. Bustier was going to arrive late hence they were going to take advantage of it. By taking advantage, they meant avoiding all responsibilities by playing a specific game. A game that Adrien has learnt to now, unconditionally despise. . "We're not getting any younger here, Buttercup. Tell us, who was your first kiss? And don't even think about lying your way out, we can tell by your face that you definitely got some sort of action~" Alya's glasses flashed in such a devilish way, even Le Papillon would have found himself shitting his pants. "Of course, if you don't want to answer the truth...you can always pick dare," 'LIKE HELL I WILL!' The last person to have picked 'dare' was Rose and she was instructed to deliver a hearty smack to Kim's bum! The teen model pretty much vowed that the only booty his hands were allowed to touch was Marinette's, with consent obviously. And vice versa. And the person before Rose who chose 'dare' was Nino! He was dared to sneak outside, climb to the top of the building's rooftop and sing Rick Astley's 'Never Gonna Give You Up' from the top of his lungs, recording himself live on Instagram as proof. It was a miracle that he never got caught by the staff! Again, the feline hero very much preferred that any attempts of his serenading would only be heard by the ears of the love of his life. . Adrien gulped, completely frozen in his seat under the gaze of his demonic classmates, the almighty, notorious peer-pressure throwing a concert whilst his Lady continued to act like that the string on the floor was far more interesting than the fact that her newly discovered partner was currently in the hot seat. 'Now how do I answer this!?' He panicked internally, twiddling with his thumbs and praying to the Gods more reliable than Plagg that Marinette would suddenly come up with some brilliant, top-notch plan that would surely get them both out of this. Especially if she doesn't want him to whimper out: "Ya got me! It was Marinette when she kissed the evil out of me after I got shot by Dislocoeur, hahaha! Oh, do I need to mention that I have no recollection of it whatsoever and that I was decked up in my usual catsuit whilst she was in her polka-dotted onesie? A brilliant first kiss, amirite!? Not to mention that our second kiss was also wiped from my memory, cheers for that Alya and Nino!" Unfortunately, (once again) for him, not even his pleading kitty eyes were able to penetrate the wall of aloofness that Marinette held between them, leaving him completely on his own, ready to be torn apart by their friends' malevolent hands. He was the equivalent of a teeny tiny, illegally cute kitten, surrounded by a circle of hungry, deadly, carnivorous wolves, licking their chops! Yet, Marinette remained unphased, pretending to stare out into space and think about what her Maman and Papa would prepare for dinner as if Adrien's scrutinising gaze weren't like arrows all over her side. However, much to her disadvantage, Agreste is her partner and he knew her very, very well. The desperate cat was able to pinpoint the cold sweat that was growing on her forehead, knowing that his presence was starting to get to her and conscious of the fact that she cannot ignore him for long either. 'Come on Marinette, you can't resist me forever. Please help!' His lack of any sort of psychic powers didn't stop him from wishing that she could read his mind but dammit did he try. 'Don't you love your pauvre Chaton!? Aidez-moi s'il vous plaît, My Lady!!!' Just before he could resort to begging out loud, Alix Kubdel... ...snickered. Simply from that evil, ominous sound, both Adrien and Marinette paled on the spot at a speed faster than M. Césaire's panther could ever dream of running at. "Ever since we asked you that question, not once have you looked away from Marinette...now why is that~?" The short girl's insight caused the rest of the class to gasp cheekily and "Oooh~?" simultaneously, their ferocious appetite for juicy gossip now at full throttle much to both heroes' apprehension. "And you, Mari! You look like a kid who got caught stealing from the cookie jar. I think the two of you have something big to admit to the rest of us, hmm?" "...No-oooo...?" Dupain-Cheng refused to make eye contact with anyone, her lips stuck between what looked like a grimace and a fake smile, continuing her sentence which was just as truthful as Jagged Stone's claims of being in his mid-twenties. "I am still a lowly virgin maiden in the kissing department...heheh...heh..." Adrien on the other hand blinked owlishly as he finally came to a conclusion, his singular working brain cell grinding its gear through his thought process. Oh? Ohoh??? OHOHOOHOH??????? . "So that means I was your first kiss too?" . If there was a compilation labelled "Top Ten Ways That Adrien Mothafuckin' Stupid Agreste Fucked Up"... This would be number one. "...You didn't hear me say that out loud...right?" He gulped meekly, shrinking under the astonished looks that everyone gave him, his Lady's jaw dropping further than what he assumed was humanely possible. He. Was. Fucked. . The entire classroom erupted with utter chaos. Ranging from high pitched squeals from Alya, Rose, Mylène and Kim to "HOLY SHIT!" and "HOW DID THIS HAPPEN!?" from Alix, Nino, Juleka and so on. Even Marinette was left burning brighter than a tomato, covering her face in embarrassment along with her iconic mantra: "THIS IS A DISASTER!!!" and shaking her head. Money was exchanged from secretive bets that were placed on the model and designer, naughty comments were thrown around left and right and even more! If one were to enter the room right now, they'd think that they've just stumbled across a hectic zoo. Never in his life did Adrien want the ground to swallow him up so badly or even run away at the speed of sound to an unknown island where he would live off of fruit and grow old all alone without ever getting married. Marinette probably- no, she definitely hates him now. Her refusal to come out of her 'Don't talk to me, I'm catastrophising' human ball and face him was more than enough evidence to prove that. Who was he kidding, thinking that he would be able to get such a wonderful, spectacular girl like her to fall for a hopeless, ridiculous nincompoop like him? His attempts in the past never worked out before and it certainly wouldn't have worked out now. Forget about pursuing a romantic relationship with her, he's one-hundred percent sure that he's absolutely tarnished what was left of their friendship! He can visualise his terrifying, depressing excuse of a future already. No more shy, cute greetings with a gorgeous smile in the mornings before class from Marinette. No more fun banter and warm hugs on their favourite patrol environments from Marinette. No more cheeky jokes and flirty teasing from Marinette. No more timid conversations and saying his name in the most softest way he's ever heard from Marinette. And, no more perfect "Bien joué!" fist bumps after an akuma battle from Marinette... How...how was he supposed to live without her? 'Shit, I can feel my eyes starting to water...' He took a deep breath, staring at the ceiling to force the traitorous tears away from daring to come out. The last thing Marinette needed was to deal with a dumb crybaby like him after he's just embarrassed her like that with his stupid, big mouth- "-But when did this happen, Marinette??? Girl, why didn't you tell me!?" Snapping out of his self-pity, Adrien tuned back into the pandemonium, wincing at how mortified Marinette still looked (albeit she was no longer in her cocoon of doom). She pursed her lips at Alya with that adorable pout of hers, unsure of how to answer with something that didn't sound like a terrible excuse. . Finally, a solid answer blared in Adrien's brain, the blonde teen adamant that he turned the situation around and salvaged what was left of the bond between him and his Princesse. For now, he can focus on the dreadful future after he got the current situation sorted. He would do anything to make Marinette feel good around him again. "It was during that time we were at le Musée Grévin when I invited Alya, Nino, Marinette and Manon to join me," He ignored the way that their classmates leaned closer with wide grins, focusing on sending a quiet apology to Marinette's direction with his pleading eyes alone. "I was being dumb and tried to play a prank on Marinette when the other three were away. I ended up tripping and Marinette tried to help me but I accidentally pulled her down with me and...we accidentally kissed..." Although the scenario wasn't fully true, Marinette did manage to land a light peck upon his lips during that incident and that's all it took for it to be branded in his memory. The sear of foreign warmth that left his lips in tingles, the subtle taste of strawberry gloss that left him hungry for more and the unadulterated softness that rivalled even the most expensive of silk. He hoped that his little white lie towards the end was enough to alleviate what was left of Marinette's embarrassment, deaf to their classmates' coos and brows furrowed to emphasise how sorry he was to the girl he loves. Although there was still a hint of pink on her cheeks, her expression was something that he wasn't able to decipher and that only made his heart race even faster than before. 'Please don't hate me, please don't hate me, please don't hate me-' "So how was the kiss, then?" Ivan waggled his eyebrows, both him and his girlfriend playfully winking at Marinette at her protesting stammers. "Oh? E-Erm...it was very quick and brief so I didn't get a chance to enjoy it-" His treacherous eyes decided to land on Marinette's lips midway, his mind screaming to stop digging a deeper hole for himself. He wasn't quick enough to flit his gaze away, the indication that he wanted to kiss her again so painfully obvious that even a blind person would have noticed. "-It was very soft and nice, however! I don't regret it-" Suddenly... . ...Marinette stood up. Adrien felt like his heart was going to bust out of his chest with the way it ricocheted against his ribcage, his emerald eyes wide with apprehension and his breath lodged in his throat as if a vice was clasped around his neck. Was she going to kill him? He certainly thought he deserved it. "Alya," The heroine in disguise began, the teen model unable to hide his flinch. "Dare me to kiss Adrien." 

She lifted her head to face her partner, her sapphire blues no longer hidden in the shadows of her fringe and sparkling with both amusement and...love? Her kissable lips were upturned into a confident smile with a gloss that was begging for him to taste and he was absolutely losing his mind. Was he dreaming? He must be dreaming. Yes. No way in the seven heavens would Marinette, THE Marinette, would want to kiss HIM, the embodiment of bad luck! Yet, the twinkling of her eyes and the warmth that radiated from her as she walked closer and closer towards him said otherwise. He didn't even hear Alya's excited declaration for Marinette's dare, solely focused on the way his Lady kneeled in front of him, smoothed her hands towards his cheeks and cupped them so gingerly. . "Pucker up, Buttercup," Marinette murmured against his lips with an endearing smirk, grazing her nose with his and rubbing his cheeks with her thumbs before sealing the kiss. . With all the romantic daydreams and boyish yearning he went through when it came to Marinette's lips, Adrien thought that he was well prepared for the real deal if the day were to ever come, disregarding his bad luck of course. However, he has been wrong before. He's absolutely, definitely, positively wrong now. The brief, shocked, brush of lips back in the wax museum was barely a taster. Barely a glimpse of the real thing. Not even close to a sample of the luxury. From the moment she pressed her lips against his, Adrien was hit with an outstanding overwhelm of fervour, tenderness and sweetness. His body instinctively shuddered as a pleasant fire seeped from her mouth to his and then coursed through the veins of the rest of his body, his hand that was clutching his precious good luck charm gift from Marinette then loosening its grip and automatically reaching for her cheek. His piano fingers dug into the locks of one of her ponytails, entangling them. 'If this really is a dream, then please, don't wake me up,' The sensation was slightly odd and just, indescribable at the same time. Yet, the more he tasted that strawberry gloss, the more her lips moved against his, the further he fell in love, addicted to the sugar that he's craved for so long. His red-tipped ears were oblivious to the class' whoops and cheers, his heart crashing against his chest louder than ever and the feel of hers doing just the same against him had him soaring. 'She never hated me all along, right? This isn't a kiss of hate at all,' But most importantly, the feeling of Marinette's pulse quickening from when his fingertips slid down to meet the side of her sensitive neck, cradling the back of it and the almost inaudible whimper she let out, was branded to his touch and memory like an imprint. 'So this is a real first kiss? Is this what Marinette felt when she kissed me to get rid of Kim's spell? How did she manage to keep her composure around me since then?' Just as Marinette pulled away, her eyes shimmering with wonderful emotions and her lips as beautifully rosy as her cheeks, Adrien couldn't resist and pulled her back in without a beat. As if to make up for all those missed opportunities, all the moments where he could have stolen her breath away and all those unsaid words that surely would have made them happy. They could talk about the reveal and their feelings afterwards in the safety of Marinette's humble balcony without any prying eyes. They could sort out their overwhelming emotions and bask through their memories over that cup of coffee that Adrien now has the confidence to ask her out on. But just for now, the two of them wanted to enjoy their present and make the most of it. 'Sweet, sweet, sweet, she's so sweet...' . . . ~(x)~ A/N: Ah shit it's six am. I'll edit this tomorrow.

#my writing #my fanfiction #miraculous ladybug #miraculous ladybug and chat noir #adrinette #adrienette #post reveal pre relationship #adrien agreste #marinette dupain cheng #ml fanfic #ml fanfiction #this is slight crack #but it's very fluffy too

[ladyanput]

Um Hi, if you're still doing prompts, maybe one where the class knows Lila's been lying but just wanted to put Marinette down a few pegs only for it to backfire on them?

Oh, this one sounds fun

---

Where the of Marinette being pompous was a thing, the world will never know. Alya.

When Marc heard about this from Nathaniel, the boy instantly wondered what kind of glue his boyfriend and his class had been huffing, because Marinette was the least pompous, egotistical person he knew. She was incredibly down to earth.

It all started off due to everyone in class realizing all of the accomplishments Marinette had managed to obtain; being a designer for Jagged Stone, being offered and internship by Audrey Bourgeois (and later on in life Gabriel Agreste), having a famous soup named after her, and so much more!

It wasn't that they felt inferior to their classmate, who seemed to already be a rising star. Or that she constantly flaked out in them. What, did she think she was too good for the likes of them? Pompous bitch.

So when Lila came along, they saw a golden opportunity. Sure, the girl's lies were outlandish and ridiculous, but she was their key to knocking the inspiring designer down a few pegs.

They began by excluding Marinette in a lot of activities, putting Lila in as her replacement in almost everything. To show that if Marinette didn't fix up her act, she was easily replaceable. So she'd better get back with bringing to class cake when it was someone's birthday, or helping them out with their dresses for the upcoming dance.

But it didn't seem to work. Well, not right away, but they were willing to wait, they knew it just needed time.

When they saw Marinette beginning to hang out with the likes of Aurore Beauréal, Marc Anciel, and others, a few of the classmates shrugged. She'd return eventually, she'd see how much she was missing out, as the class kept flooding their social medias with their fun times with their new best friend Lila.

They even managed to rope Adrien into the entire scheme, they just didn't tell him.

They exploited Marinette's weak spot by practically forcing Lila and Adrien to be together, to show Marinette that if she started acting less like an entitled brat, she'd get her chance with Adrien. They ignored how stressed and uncomfortable Adrien looked every time he had Lila hanging off of his arm and practically humping his leg.

Marinette... She had shed tears over all of this treatment. She had cried herself to sleep almost nightly, having fought off several akumas that had targeted her, she had been ready to give in, until Marc, after learning what Miss Bustier's class was doing, offered her a place to sit at lunch. He offered her a shoulder to cry on, but never told her what the class was doing exactly. He would later regret it and apologize, but Marinette and her big, loving heart quickly forgave him.

And one day Adrien showed up on her doorstep, looking close to tears and clearly distressed. Marinette hadn't hesitated to let him inside and took him up to her room.

This lead to Marinette sitting on her bed, while Adrien laid his head on her lap and cried.

"I can't take it anymore, Marinette, she's smothering me. She keeps making threats about my father and other stuff.." Adrien whispered, nibbling on one of the cookies Tom had brought up to try and soothe the boy.

"Well, you can come here anytime Adrien." Marinette stroked her crush's silken blond hair from his face, then gently wiped away his tears. "I promise my door is always open, Adrien, I'm always here for you."

"Really?" He whispered, looking up at her with those perfect green eyes of his.

"Of course," Marinette smiled, surprised at herself that she'd managed to form full sentences around him. But facing akumas daily and becoming Ladybug, being abandoned by her friends, amongst other things, had put a braveness in her. Suddenly, speaking to Adrien wasn't so scary, especially when she saw he wasn't perfect. He wasn't horrible, just sheltered and alone, but he was still good at heart. But the words she hadn't planned on saying had slipped from her lips. "I do love you, afterall."

It was then Paris saw an abrupt change in the relationship between Ladybug and Chat Noir, one that was less full of flirting from Chat and a new, stronger relationship of partners working together and defeated the akumas on record time.

And at school, Marinette and Adrien kept their relationship a secret, mostly due to Lila and the class, though Marinette's new friends were overjoyed for the duo. Even Luka and Kagami weren't bitter, after they had met each other and felt a spark.

But one day, there was a push too far and everyone just snapped.

"I told you I'm not going to the gala with you! I've already got a date!" Adrien snapped at Lila, shoving her grasping hands off of him in fury. Marinette stopped her progress to her next class and turned to watch the scene, frowning in concern.

"But Adrien, you wouldn't want to make me upset, your father-" Lila began, narrowing her eyes as she reached out for him.

"Can back off! You need to back off, so do the rest of you!" Adrien turned and pointed right at his class, glaring at them. "Stop trying to push me into a relationship with Lila, I don't even like her. I'm already dating someone!"

"Adrien, don't be silly!" Alya let out a strained laugh, catching sight of Marinette from the corner of her eye. "Lila's practically in love with you, you'd make the most adorable couple."

"Leave him alone, Alya." Marinette strode up in a fury, taking Adrien's hand and holding it tight. "If he doesn't want to be about Lila, you shouldn't force him. He's not some toy for your entertainment."

"Oh please, girl, you're just jealous." Alya snorted, crossing her arms as she cocked a hip. "Don't be so salty because you missed your chance to date him."

"Alya, she's the one in dating." Adrien said flatly, pulling Marinette closer as the class blinked with surprise.

"What...?" Alya whispered weakly, her face going pale, before cursing very explicitly. "Dammit, Adrien, this ruins the entire plan!"

"Plan?" Marinette's brows furrowed as she stared at her former best friend. "What plan?"

The class exchanged glances as Alya suddenly got an annoyed look on her face.

"The plan to get you off of your high horse, duh." Alya rolled her eyes, then motioned over to Lila. "We've had to put up with this self centered idiot for almost five months, but it almost worked. But now Adrien ruined it by dating you!"

"High horse?" Marinette felt her cheeks warm in embarrassment at their words, before fury settled in. "What high horse? What did I ever do to make you guys think I suddenly act like I was on one?"

"I mean, your accomplishments with Jagged Stone, Audrey Bourgeois..." Kim began listing off, their other classmates joining in while Lila looked like she'd been slapped. No one had believed her all this time? She had just been some pawn in their ploy to send their always down to earth friend to basically grovel.

Wow and she thought she was evil. But this class took the cake.

"You mean the stuff I earned?" Marinette teared up as a crowd began to firm, observing the entire scene unfolding. "I... I can't believe I cried myself to sleep over you guys! You put me through all of that just because I'm succeeding in life?! When did I ever hold any of my accomplishments over your heads?! When did I brag, when did I gloat?! When was I a horrible friend?!"

Everyone watched as Marinette burst into heartbroken sobs and curled into Adrien, who glared at his class. Marc and Aurora rushed forward and ushered the weeping girl away, while Adrien turned towards the class, his expression full of fury.

"You accused Marinette of jealousy, when really you guys are the jealous ones. Wow, I just... You guys really are trash. You're worse than my father, worse than Lila, even. I can't believe.. Believe I wanted to be your friends."

"Wait, dude.." Nino stepped forward, but Adrien held up a hand to silence him and rushed off after his girlfriend and her friends, leaving Miss Bustier's class to stand there, shellshocked while the rest of the student body looked at them in disgust.

That was the day the class became a social pariah at the school. Many friendships and relationships were broken because of the stunt they pulled. Chloé, who had not participated because that whole scheme wasn't worth her time, finally did go to New York with her mother. Adrien and Marinette transferred to a different class and suddenly the class seemed less bright. No cakes, no special presents or favours.

Meanwhile, Marinette felt estatic. She was dating Adrien, Jagged let it slip to the media that she was his new designer, and her website; MDC, was blowing up. And she was surrounded by loving friends and family, while her old friends were on the outside looking in, wondering where they had gone wrong.

Taglist: @vixen-uchiha @ravennightingaleandavatempus @2sunchild2 @crazylittlemunchkin @bee-wrecker @souleateralicestein @loysydark @kceedraws @realrandomposts @alienjoyful

@virgil-is-a-cutie @sidessunnybumblebee @persephonebutkore @suzen23smith @luciferge @theelventhgod @noirdots @space--butterflies @ghostglaceon @magicalfirebird @goggles-mcgee @chocolate1721 @minightrose @bookcrazybby @cupcakeandkisses @mewwitch

#miraculous salt #alya salt #class salt #adrinette

[ticklishpeter]

cutie (diego/lila)

HELLO! despite the summary, this is a totally sfw fic!! someone tell me,,, why i can write a 1,000+ word fic in about 3 hours,,, while i still can’t start ANY of my papers for classes??? OOF. anyways,,, i’m proud of this one! 🥺

summary: how either of them ended up in this situation, they didn't know. well… they had started out trying out… different things in the bedroom, so here they were; diego with his arms over his head, wrists tied together with a belt, as lila straddled his lap. ... it certainly wasn't supposed to turn into a tickle torture session.

word count: 1,337

How either of them ended up in this situation, they didn't know. Well… they had started out trying out… different things in the bedroom, so here they were; Diego with his arms over his head, wrists tied together with a belt, as Lila straddled his lap.

It certainly wasn't supposed to turn into a tickle torture session. 

———

“Goddammit, Lila,” Diego said, residual giggles slipping out of him. She'd just found out how ticklish he was on his stomach, thanks to Klaus calling into the bedroom as soon as he heard laughter. So of course she had to take advantage. For five minutes before now.

“Iiii’m gonna getcha!” Lila grinned, beginning to wiggle her nimble fingers just inches over her boyfriend’s hypersensitive stomach.

He turned his head away, giggling into his shoulder and closing his eyes.

“What is it, handsome? I'm not even tickling you yet! Does it tickle already?” Lila laughed, repetitively jerking her hands forward as if she was about to make contact.

“I-” he choked out another giggle and a growl, “N-no! … i-it doesn't.” His voice was strained, and he still was avoiding eye contact at all costs.

“Does this tickle? Aww, don't worry, you can tell me the truth,” she cooed, poking her fingers towards his belly, not yet making contact.

“I-it doesn't fucking… t-...tickle- HA! ACK!” Saying the word was enough to get the giggles flowing out of him.

“You sure about that?” Her pokes made their way to his sensitive middle this time, and she chuckled brightly at the uncharacteristic yelp that came out of Diego’s mouth.

He muttered various expletives, feeling a giggle bubbling in his throat, “Shiiit, LILA! - Noohoho,” Hiding his quickly reddening face again, he pulled at his restraints, silently cursing at them.

“You are such a cutie,” Lila giggled up at him. “I’ll tell you what,” she started, propping herself up on her elbow, “You say how cute you are, then maybe I’ll stop. — Although, it’ll be really hard for me to stop if you keep all this giggling up; way too cute to stop, y’know?”

“Sh-shut up,” Diego cried, wiggling to and fro as he tried to close his mouth and stop laughing, “M’not cute!”

Lila tapped a few nails on his uppermost rib, “Actually, you most definitely are!”

She began to scratch five fingers in the center of his tummy, getting endless amusement out of the yelp she heard, and the stream of laughter that followed. Moving her face up to his, she grinned, “Listen to how cute your little laugh is though! And your eyes crinkle up all sweet! You should definitely smile more, you know that?”

“Shshsh-” Diego giggled before falling into wordless laughter, too flustered to make any out. He turned his head away from Lila’s playful poke to his cheek.

“Everytime I do this,” she quickly poked all ten fingers into his tummy, observing Diego’s violent twitch and particularly squeaky noise, “you do that.” Demonstrating her observation, she did the same thing again, and again, and again.

And at this point, Diego was laughing even when she wasn't touching him. “Stopit!” he sputtered between desperate squeaks and squeals, “Leave me alohohone!”

Suddenly, she brought her hands back towards her, crossing her arms adamantly, a mischievous spark still in her eye, “Okay, no problem.”

Diego’s eyes shifted at the silence. God, how he wanted to be able to move so he could get his revenge. He tried once more, to no avail, to pull himself free from the belt that his wrists were restrained with.

“Having fun?” Her head tilted to the side as she grinned down at him, leaning to hum in his ear, “Or do you want me to tickle you some more?” A giggle escaped Diego’s mouth at the sensation near his neck. He was so giggly already; he nearly forgot how to stop.

But the way she smiled and laughed while she tickled him… that was enough for Diego; more than enough really. If he could take part in something that produced a smile that sweet? He’ll do it, regardless of how absolutely unbearable it was.

“Hey! Yoo-hoo! Earth to Diego!”

A trance he didn't even know he was in got cut short by Lila snapping her fingers in his face.

“Can I please tickle you more? I'm just so bored and you're just so adowable,” she put on a fake pout as she squeezed his cheek, smiling when he jerked his head away.

Diego avoided eye contact again. He couldn't help but smile though. Although his arms were totally immobile, and she could totally kill him right now, he felt safer than he had in a long time. “Fine. But be nice, okay?”

“Yeah, yeah,” she replied in a sarcastically dismissive tone before moving her face down to his belly.

“Woahwoahwoahwoahwhatareyoudoing- HEY! ACK! FUCK! LILA!” Diego shrieked when he felt a raspberry, something he hadn't felt since he was a child.

Lila cackled, “I knew that would work on you.” She placed another one way too close to his navel, and another one, and another one, nearly flinching at how violently he arched his back. Adding a quickly pinching and prodding few fingers to the torture, Lila was having too much fun listening to his reactions.

“LILA, God! F-Fuckin’ -” he squeezed his eyes shut in attempt to gain at least a little bit of composure, “GYAH, not THAHAT!” he cried, beginning again to kick his free legs as much as he could, his back nearly flying off the bed.

“Cool it with the kicking, knife boy, or you're gonna kick me in the tits,” she teased, holding a leg down, certainly not expecting Diego to laugh even harder, and let out another ever-amusing squeak.

She grinned an open-mouthed grin at him and paused all movement, “No way, Elmo! Your thighs?”

An experimental squeeze made Diego’s entire body jump as he snorted loudly, “N-No, no, they're n- AAH! FUCK!” Suddenly both of Lila’s hands were pinching up and down his wildly flailing thighs, and his shrieks turned into frantic giggles. “Y-You-,” hic, hic, “You said you'd be nice!”

“No, I didn't,” Lila shook her head, still smiling so much that her cheeks began to hurt. “Besides, you think this is being not-nice? This is being not-nice.” She stuck a wiggling finger into his belly button, while another hand stayed squeezing at his thigh, and her face leaned back down to place raspberry after raspberry along the sides of his tummy.

Diego went berserk; screaming and thrashing around, legs kicking out at every angle, his face was beet red, and sweat began to mat his long, messy hair. He had no idea how to deal with all of his worst tickle spots being ruthlessly tickled. The screams were mixed with silent, hiccups laughter as he shook his head. “LILA! LILA, OKAY! OKAY ST- ” he went silent again, drumming his feet on the mattress, “STOPIT, I CAN’T, I CAHAHAN’T,” hic, “PLEASE, PLEASE, OKAY!” His rambly laughter, however amusing, was beginning to sound truly desperate; maybe she should stop.

“Will you admit you're adorable?” Her British accent called over him, not letting up at all, relishing in Diego's smile and the bright, oh-so-precious sound of his laughter.

He nodded without a sound; there was no way he could say it with how hard he was laughing, and Lila noticed this. She moved her designated belly button finger to scratch around below it, easing up only slightly.

“Ihihi’m! - Dammit,” he turned his blushing face away, tucking his face into his shoulder.

“Ahp, ahp! Look at me while you say it.” Lila grabbed his chin gently and turned it towards her as Diego scrunched his nose.

Looking up at her with squinty eyes, he gasped for breath, “I'm- GAH, I'm... fucking c-cute, okay? Shihit-” Falling back into silent laughter, he shook his head, rambling, “Enough! - That's enough, oh my God, Lila, I'm gonna die!”

“Okay, okay, calm down, cutie pie,” Lila laughed, stopping her brutal tickle attacks.

As soon as Diego’s arms were released, one flew down to cover his torso and the other shot towards Lila’s side, tickling her off of his lap.

He smiled at Lila’s high-pitched squeal, sitting up, “My turn, cutie pie.”

#ticklish!diego #ticklish!lila #(kinda) #tickle fic #tua tickle fic #tua

[acefrogmonarch]

HC pt. 3

Story Time! with the bat fam

The bat language!

It's just glares and different forms of glares. Semi-glare. Glare. Glare-glare. That's about five sentences.

Ravin has cracked the code and communicated with them. They understand why Raven could but not how Mari understands them.

They are very confused because this little flower shouldn't, like why??? She wears her heart on her sleeve and you can tell when she's angry or sad. Dick and bruce do it but Mari catches them.

Unknown to them, when Mari wants to be, she can 'cut' off her emotions.

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Mari found Damian to be semi-attractive. Damian was like eh, she's another girl.

But he was about 5'11 at this point, and for years to come, he would grow. Mari, herself, is barely reaching 5ft. She considers herself lucky that she even reaches 5'5.

She was 20 when she did.

She is very angry at taller beings than her. Dick is 5'11 while Jason is 6'3, Bruce is taller than both of them.

Mari hates them all. Jason still calls her a bean, even when she has him in a choke-hold during a sparring match. Mari will not hesitate to throw hands. Instead of mellowing out, she did the opposite.

.

Jason Todd has had sex with Talia before and he hangs it over Damian's head for years.

As a challenge, he brought it up in front of Marinette. Any other time Damian would have left but since Mari was here, he couldn't. Damian stayed but Mari was like

“Why???" Tugging, cause they were holding hands. "Mari, lovebug, Malak, Habi Alghali. Let's go." Mari is a dissatisfied bean. Reluctantly follows Dami away.

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The Outlaws consisted of Kori, Roy, and Jason!

When they hang out they always have ‘baked’ goods. They were eating edibles in the city but they somehow made their way to the manor for munchies. Alfred asked if they had any left.

Assuming to part with them, they lied and said no. (they always do)

Alfred still searched the trio moved the treat around. Some sour straps, molly ranchers, and a joint.

Alfred took some straps and popped them in.

"Wait, Alfred, that's-" "I know." They will never forget. Bruce semi-believes them.

High!Mari

Mari never took a stance on cannabis. "Too young." was the excuse often used when talking about it. She was 16.

She knew what they did. It wasn't until, Gotham, that she got real experience with edibles.

Roy accidentally gave her 300mg of cannabis.

"I got brownies!" Roy came in the room, granted it was one of Jason's many hideouts and they had agreed to hang out before Mari was dragged away.

"Jason, Let's get blazed!" Roy kicked the door in and Mari took a stance, Jason got out his babies and pointed them at the door. "Uhh." Roy slowly backed out, Jason put away his guns and Mari bounced in excitement.

"Brownies!" Plucking one from the bag, Mari smelled it first. "Mari, no." Mari turned, then plopped it in her mouth, stuffed her hand in the bag and took a bunch more.

Eating 3 more and stuffing some for Tikki. Jason sighed deeply. "Dammit." It sweet chaos for Mari after that.

First, an anxiety attack then bliss. She was never afraid of heights from being Ladybug, and that just added more fun for Mari.

Damian doesn't find out until he calls Mari.

Because Mari was supposed to come back and hang out, they promised. No, Damian was not upset by the fact that Jason is not better company than him.

Not at all. Damian is superior in every way! His ringing phone brought him back to reality.

"Mari, get away from there!" That's Jason. Marinette was giggling and Damian could here the wind.

"No way, Jose," Roy shouted in the background. "Who's jOsE?!?!" Marinette laughed loudly and Damian was starting to question his existence.

"Mari, Baby girl, Demon tamer. Get off the ledge." There was an eerie silence. "Oh, that reminds me. Hi, Damian."

That's it. "Ya Qamar Barid, I'm coming to get you." Marinette started to sob at that. "I MISSED OUR MEET UP, DIDN'T I???" Damian was already driving off, he traced the call.

"No, not at all Habibti. I was just thinking about where we should eat out." Marinette stopped crying.

"Really?" Damian confirms. "Mhm." "Je vais à la pizzeria que je veux, amant.* ”  The call ends and Damian is NOT panicking.

(I go to the pizzeria i want, lover.)*

Marinette hanged up and jumped down to the apartment below. "MARI!!" Jason was going to lose so many years of this. This small bean should be very afraid.

Jason jumped after her with Roy following on the other side. "Oh, shit. Mari!" Roy regrets everything leading up to this point. At first, it was funny, seeing anyone try for the first time is.

Jason caught up to Mari, who has made it down 4 apartments. They were on the 5th floor.

Almost went splat on the pavement a couple of times.

Damian pulls up in one of the many cars, he's hot-wired before. Mari doesn't notice she's trying to climb down from the first floor to the ground. She jumps to a flag and misses.

Damian catches her before she hits the ground. "Damnit Habibti."

Marinette giggles. "I would have been fine, you know that." Damian carried her back to the car, Mari's complaining the entire time.

Once she's seated in the cold car, she promptly falls asleep.

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Lila causes problems for Mari, on purpose but for the wrong reasons.

To spend time with her. Lila is never going to admit that she likes or even remotely revolves her world around Mari. Max points it out to Mari and has tried to get Lila to confess.

Likes to make Marinette mad. When her cheeks go red Lila accidentally lets out a, “She’s cute.” Mari turned to her. “What?” Lila panics and shouts. “I said you’re shit!” Mari is a very confused bean.

The only reason why this is brought up is that they make Lila have Sociopathic tendencies. Like Oni-chan didn’t make sense. Why let go of Adrien? Willing? Better question, why only focus on Mari? Unless you know. . . . . . Just saying.

.

A lot of mini ships. Like Alix x Chloe.

Alix and Chloe are secretly dating. Sabrina covers for both of them when it’s date night. Alix’s parents know that she’s gay but not Chloe’s. She doesn’t know why she’s scared.

But she doesn’t like that way her dad dismisses gay pride parades. Marinette helps her come to terms and even helps go through her emotions and to come out.

Still doesn’t come out until very much later. Uses Adrien as an excuse. Adrien knows what she means.

Chloe's mother is alright, you know ,gay pride. She joins the parades and makes small nods in her designs.

Eventually Max x Kim!

Alix and Kim are best friends and they help each other out because they always get the wrong advice.

Max and Kim ‘got together’ because Kim didn’t want to date Odine. Max doesn’t think they are dating.

So Kim makes an effort for their relationship and friendship. Alix dared Kim to date Chloe on valentine’s day, Max was there. He didn’t even hear Chloe’s answer but that didn’t matter because, at that moment.

Max heard and Kim understood why he felt like ‘that’ around Max. Max said congratulations and that just broke Kim's heart. Max is not very good at emotions.

"Mom already has enough on her plate." "I don’t need to trouble her." Max to Kim at some point.

Very later. Marc x Nathanial! Fw/B at 17

Nath only shines when art is involved. Has done sculpting and embroidery lessons from Mari, because he doesn’t want to be limited to one form of expression. Digital music is not his thing. Instruments on the other hand. Band nerd.

Sneaks into Higher writing courses. The teachers let him. He’s so talented in creating a universe from nothing. Marc had let the director of the ‘LB and CN Movie.’

Look at some of his stuff but once some criticism on Twitter started to get deleted for some reason, Marc asked around. Bad plot and all, he dismisses the story “Astruc” approved and did another one. Just because he made one good thing doesn’t mean he made the rest just as great.

Yes I am dissing Thomas

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.

I am changing this.

No relationship. Luka helps Kagami realize that not everything in sexuality is as black as white because im a sucker for Les Kagami and Bi Luka. They can find happiness with people.

Emotions? What’s that. Barely there. No chill. Whatsoever. Sarcasm? Come again. She can make sarcastic jokes but won’t know it if it hits her in the face.

Knows exactly what you're talking about but at the same time doesn’t. Can’t relate. It’s very frustrating because she won’t disobey without feeling guilty. Mari, Adrien, and Luka help tear down her walls and ‘need to approve’ attitude. A lot of walls around her heart.

Adrien doesn't like or feel any attraction besides strong feelings.

Demi? Or Ace. Maybe Ace.

He is very disappointed when he doesn't feel explosions or fireworks when he kisses Lila (It was for a shoot, maybe audition.)

Parents fighting? Middle of most argument. Afraid of failing his father because his mother was like that?

The acting was put on hold but she would sneak out for auditions. Natalie helped her sneak out. He can’t trust Gabrial but trust his mother's judgment and maybe Natalie.

He doesn’t know what to do because Mari is, best friend and Lila don’t like Best Friend. But Mari said it was okay when it wasn’t! Proud owner of at least one brain cell.

Eventually Rose x Juleka!

Very concerned with Juleka’s being. She wants Juleka as more than a friend but if Juleka isn’t comfortable with it.

Then she can wait until she’s ready. Her father supports but her mother doesn’t. She makes fun of her depression.

World of patience. Rose and she aren’t dating but they are saving for each other. Juleka was delirious when this happened. She’ll never admit her feelings. Worried about how people would act.

And of course Alya x Nino once Alya gets her head on straight.

These are mini-stories. I'm going to reference these and mention them when I can in the story.

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Bruce has movie nights.

No one knows where it is or what movie he watches. Alfred has an idea, and the boys keep trying to find where he goes. It's been so long since he's had something nice in his life.

He... adores his... children. To some extent. Okay, a lot.

But that didn't mean he could show how much he... loved them.

Regardless, they bring trouble where ever they go. Finally getting the conviction to watch a movie, he kept the tradition every chance he got.

Marinette accidentally found him at one of the run-down movie theaters around Gotham. A new movie she was excited for was already released in America but after Sams Club™

She never allowed them anywhere near her in a public place. It was chaos last time. She memorized the way to this theatre and avoided all the cameras. She checked, multiple times. On patrol.

Both, Mari and Damian, are 16.

Bruce is 38, Jason is 24, Dick is 26, Tim is finally 21. Dami is a winter baby. December. Mari is a Fall baby. October 8th.

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When Adrien and Mari hang out together, Mari loses one brain cell While Adrien gains one.

They can never get anything accomplished if it doesn't involve the miraculous in some way. Mari was talking about a recent design, Adrien was in the middle of drink soup on this cold day.

Marinette stopped talking as Adrien struggled to get a single noddle in his mouth. Mari opened her mouth to try and say something, but Adrien managed to get the noodle in and grinned. As if, he just got the best Christmas gift, ever.

Mari lost if after that. "A-Adrien!" Clutching her stomach, Mari continued to laugh, Adrien joined in laughing at the slurping noise he made Nino walked in a moment ago to them laughing. It was lunchtime and they went ahead of the Alya and Nino.

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Fu is a touchy subject with Marinette.

After the left with his past lover, he shortly passed away. Marianna wrote a letter back to Marinette and that just broke the Dam she built around her emotions.

Chat Noir revealed to be Adrien to destroy the Akuma after her.

Mari, as the newly appointed Guardian, didn't take away his miraculous. No one else was able and she didn't want anyone else to break down from the weight of responsibility.

Chat Noir took his duty with more dignity and less comical after the reveal.

I just saw the Chat Blanc trailer and.. I had this idea before but omg this is weird.

Let's.

Not.

Get.

This.

Bread.

Like most of this is going to be in Book 2. Book 1 is set in Paris, following Marinette. Book two is in Gotham, following Damian 

#Maribat #marinette x damian #daminette #damian x marinette #Maridami #mari #marinette dupain cheng #headcanons #Cool

[simplystefanie-rae]

I really need a name for my ‘Gabe tries and fails to akumatize Marinette’ idea so I can stop calling it this long winded description all the time lol. For reference, I’m talking about this.

Now, a tentative plot progression in bullet point form:

Post Weredad (It’s more important that it’s after Chameleon, but I called back to weredad in that fic I’m writing)

At first Gabe is only mildly annoyed with Marinette for letting go of her anger and deflecting his Akuma, but he ultimately didn’t care since he thinks he gained a reliable ally in Lila.

Only Lila kinda sucks.

Sometime later Marinette is stressed out over some school work that backed up since her Ladybug duties and other obligations got in the way, and Gabe sees his third time to strike and he sends out an akuma.

*tap tap* it goes on Marinette’s window cuz they’re not open which presents a bit of a problem. Gabe never had to deal with something as trivial as being locked out before.

So Mari looks up and is alarmed at the akuma outside her window but then she realizes it can’t get in and just-

It is a temporary solution though. Eventually the Akuma finds it’s way in through the bakery, but luckily Marinette managed to calm down enough for it to be safe.

Queue Gabe’s temper tantrum because wow he just can’t win with this one can he??

Like it’s bad enough that he loses to Ladybug on a weekly basis, but now he can’t even manage to akumatize this girl, who last he checked was little more than a crazed fan of his son who steals books? Unacceptable. 

Meanwhile Marinette is all like ‘Tikki this is 3 times now, what do I do if I can’t resist next time??’ So she suggests going to Fu’s for advice.

His advice is to teach her some meditation techniques so help calm herself when her emotions are heightened.

And at first it works! (Bonus: It helps with her anxiety around Adrien and overthinking things in general) Next time she gets angry about Lila spreading lies around, she’s able to apply proper breathing techniques before the akuma can even get into the school.

Suffice to say, Gabe is just incredulous because that is ridiculous. 

He seeks Lila out again forlornly, already knowing she would fail. But why waste milage on his akuma?

After a few failed akuma he tries with this elusive girl again. Surely, SURELY 5th time would be the charm?? 

It is not the charm.

At this point, both Gabe and Marinette are getting fed up with each other. Marinette sees the akuma coming towards her and suddenly the hurt because of her friends not believing her about Lila is just gone because really? Really? 

So Marinette just rolls her eyes and walks away.

like

Bye bitch

Gabe throws his cane against the wall.

Distantly he knows he might be losing sight of his actual goal, but now he just needed to akumatize this girl on pure principle. It would be his side project, a more obtainable goal, surely. When he akumatizes Marinette then at least Gabe can pretend he won at something. 

He thinks that maybe he needs an actual plan.

Some time that night Gabe asks Adrien about his friend, the ‘designer one’, and if she would be interested in am internship with his company since he’s been studying her work and thinks she has great potential. 

Adrien extends the invitation to Marinette the next day, completely excited for her, totally unaware that his Dad is about to execute Operation: Break Her Spirit (because he wants to WIN dammit) TO BE CONTINUED. In a part that’s less fun.

#miraculous ladybug #marinette dupain-cheng #ladybug #gabriel agreste #hawkmoth #my writing #i guess lol #in my mind hes so fixated on this because it is to him a more obtainable goal #but also a distraction from the constant failure with chat and LB #like hes still failing lol #but it breaks up the monotony with a different type of failure lol #butterfly defect

[their-destinys-writer]

Caged - Chapter 11

Rated: Teen

Chapter: 11/?

Word Count: 10,231

Ao3 / FFnet / Wattpad

A/N: Surprise! I know I normally give updates before each chapter, but as anyone who’s been following me knows, circumstances have been dire lately, and updates were impossible at the time. I’m taking advantage of the limited resources we have, because I refuse to allow everything to fall apart because of a pesky hurricane.

Okay, not pesky, it’s been a very difficult two months.

But I do want to give a shout out to those wonderful readers and friends who’ve reached out, concerned. I love you guys and I promise not to let this whole ordeal bring me down. Thankfully, the situation hasn’t been so bad for me, like it was for many dear friends of mine. For that, I feel there’s no excuse for me not to move and do my best to keep going. Although I do this for free and fun, Caged also means a lot to me in my growth as a writer, so I think it’s important I continue and finish this project.

Anyway, enough of my rambling, and enjoy the first chapter of Caged, post-Maria.

Caged Chapter 11 - Not so Friendly Anymore

There was a beat, in which the two just stared at each other with wide eyes. Suddenly, both slapped their hands to their mouths, but for completely different reasons.

Plagg was doing everything in his power to hold his laughter in, while Adrien’s eyes had grown to the size of dinner plates, mortified.

“Don’t—”

“BWAHAHAHAHAHA!”

Adrien whined and covered his whole face with his hands. As Plagg’s laughter became louder, the boy let himself fall headfirst on the floor.

“I knew—PWAHAHA!” Plagg heaved. “I knew you couldn’t deny it forever!”

The blond let out a muffled ‘shut up,’ while Plagg laughed even harder.

“Oooh no, she’s just a friend,” the kwami mocked. “Friend my butt. Didn’t believe that even if you were dancing around naked professing your love for Ladybug.”

At last, Adrien removed one of his hands to give Plagg a bewildered look at the image the little god created. But he didn’t seem to care, as he continued cackling. A strong annoyance suddenly rose within the boy, that wanted to shut the damn cat up. So, in a rash move, he grabbed Plagg by his small body, making him let out a strangled yelp, and brought him close to his face.

“This is not funny!” he almost shouted.

“You’re squeezing me,” the kwami wheezed.

“Plagg!”

“It’s very funny!”

“I can’t have feelings for two girls at once.”

There was a pause.

“Yes you can,” Plagg finally said. Adrien gave him a look of warning, so the kwami continued. “Look, it happens. You can’t always control your heart, but you can control what you do about those feelings. That doesn’t make you a bad person.”

Adrien stared at the cat-being, until deciding to let go and sulk on the floor again. Meanwhile, Plagg gingerly took a seat at the edge of the coffee table.

“How did this happen? When did this happen?” the boy whispered.

“I think that if you use your brain, you’ll find the answers to your questions,” Plagg responded in a matter-of-factly tone.

While Adrien was annoyed by Plagg’s attitude, he took him up on the advice. He turned his back to the floor and started thinking.

It was clear that those feelings had been developing for a while. The question was when and how. And why.

He knew he’d had feelings since before today, otherwise he wouldn’t had gotten jealous of Félix.

No use in denying it now, he internally sighed.

Definitely before giving Marinette the spray bottle. He remembered feeling comforted by the smell of her hair when they hugged.

Before Damage Control, because he felt he betrayed Marinette for having close contact with Ladybug.

Before Chatte Noire, because he defended her honor against Charlene.

Before the interview with Nadja Chamack, because he told the world Marinette’s heart belonged to Adrien.

Before…

The letter.

Adrien bolted up into a sitting position.

That can’t be right, can it?

Despite the disappointment he had felt when he found out the heart-shaped letter hadn’t been from Ladybug, he had also been beyond flattered for what Marinette had said about him. And that the letter belonged to her.

Absentmindedly, Adrien left the floor and allowed his legs to drag him to the desk. In a swift move, he snatched the red paper, moved his computer mouse for light, and read it for the hundredth time.

Those words… Those words were from Marinette to Adrien. Marinette had been able to see beyond her first impression of him, further than he ever imagined she would. What was more, with Chat Noir she was kind, open, cool… and has saved his life more than once. To Chat Noir she offered a friend the moment he needed one the most.

Marinette was… amazing.

“Dammit!” the blond said, as he smacked his forehead against the desk. The light weight of Plagg shortly laid on his shoulder, but he ignored it. “I’ve liked her for almost a month.” He let out a deep breath. “And I really, really like her.”

“Tell me something new, kid,” Plagg sighed, as he started stroking the back of the boy’s neck.

“But I still love Ladybug.” Plagg stopped for a second, but then continued his ministrations, saying nothing. So Adrien continued. “This is so unfair to them. Especially Marinette.”

“Why is it worse for Marinette?”

Adrien snapped up so quickly, Plagg had to grab on to his charge’s shirt.

“Because she has feelings for me,” Adrien reminded. “And I don’t know if my feelings are as strong as hers, but now I’m aware, and I don’t know if I can pretend not to like her in school and when I visit her, plus I can’t just tell her my feelings while I still love Ladybug, who, by the way, finally knows how I feel, but hasn’t shown she feels the same way, but I know Marinette can return my feelings, and UGH!” The boy smacked his head back on the desk. “This is a mess.”

Plagg gave an exasperated sigh. Swiftly, he swooped down to sit on the desk, as close to Adrien’s ear as possible.

“It’s not as complicated as you think,” Plagg said. The model merely grunted. “You just have to organize your feelings. First ask yourself: why do you love Ladybug?”

Adrien turned his head to look at the kwami. He knitted his brows together for a moment, until he found the answer to the question.

“Well,” he started, “she’s brave, nice, yet she doesn’t let herself be messed with so easily. Very selfless, smart and… cool. I know we like some of the same stuff, like Ultimate Mecha Strike and Jagged Stone. She may be a little stubborn, but in the end, she always listens to reason. And she’s capable of admitting when she’s wrong, and pushes when she knows she’s right. Plus, she can be funny when she wants to.”

The boy sighed. Maybe he was wrong about his feelings on Marinette. Maybe he overestimated those feelings due to their newness. Maybe it was a small, temporary crush.

“What about Marinette?” Plagg interrupted his thoughts. “Why do you like her?”

Adrien gulped. Slowly, he straightened up, unsure on what to answer.

“Uh,” he stammered. “I, uuh…”

“No holding back,” Plagg suggested softly.

The boy nodded. He took another deep breath and tried to think of Marinette, and Marinette only.

“Marinette,” he said out loud. “Marinette is sweet, kind,” he rested his head back, trying to let out everything he had denied for a while now. “She’s fun, cool, insanely brave, to the point that I’m scared for her life,” he chuckled, sinking further into the idea. “She can deal with trouble so gracefully, like she did with Lila, but can also be so rash, like she was with Chloé. She’s a kickass gamer, she actually designs for Jagged Stone, which is beyond cool. She’s smart, selfless and…” He swallowed. “And she likes me for me. Not because of my status or my father, but because of who I am, as a person.”

Without meaning to, Adrien let out a wistful breath. Now that he said it out loud, having a crush on The Girl Who Saved Chat Noir didn’t sound so bad.

“Huh,” Plagg let out. “You seem to have a type.”

“A type?” Adrien drew his gaze to the cat-being.

“Brave, cool, selfless, likes the same stuff as you. You know, a type.”

Adrien blinked. “I don’t… have a… type,” he feebly defended.

“And dark hair, to boot,” the kwami added.

The boy sunk down in his chair, his cheeks starting to feel warm. He never thought he had a type. He had also never realized how much Marinette and Ladybug had in common. Wait—

“I didn’t fall for Marinette because she reminds me of Ladybug, did I?” Adrien asked out loud.

“Do you think you did?” Plagg retorted with.

“I mean—I don’t think so,” the boy said, thoughtfully. “They have some things in common, but Marinette doesn’t need powers to save people. She also takes my puns better than Ladybug. Not great, but better. Marinette is also more open to listening and just talking. And she’s more affectionate with me. Like the first time I hugged her. She just hugged me back, like she had wanted it too, but hadn’t dared to do it.”

Another wistful sigh escaped his lips, as he thought about how wonderful it had felt to be closer than a fist bump to her.

“Are you sure you’re in love with Ladybug and not Marinette?” Plagg intervened.

A load of saliva caught on Adrien’s throat. The more he talked about Marinette, the more he liked her. And it had been going for so long… Could he?

“I-I… I don’t know,” he admitted. He then pursed his lips, thinking it better. “I’m not sure about my feelings. I know I love Ladybug, but my feelings for Marinette are also strong. But I’m still not sure how strong.” He placed his forearms on his knees, hands clasped together. “I can’t tell them. At least, not yet.”

Plagg tilted his head, so Adrien explained further.

“I can’t tell them until I figure what I’m actually feeling. If I’m not clear in what I want, I shouldn’t be making that decision.”

“Huh. Sounds like a plan,” Plagg responded, stroking one of his whiskers.

Adrien arched an eyebrow. “That is the quickest you’ve ever agreed with me.”

“I know you don’t want to hurt them,” the kwami stated. “And I know you would kick yourself if you do.”

The boy couldn’t help but give his partner a soft smile.

“Thanks,” he said.

“No problem,” Plagg bowed. “Now, can I have my beauty sleep?”

Adrien rolled his eyes. Even so, he knew Plagg cared, whether he showed it or not.

“Yeah, I think I’m good,” he chuckled.

With nothing more to add, Plagg zipped away to the trash can beside the desk. Probably for more silence. But Adrien remained in his seat, the heart-shaped letter still in his hand. He stroke it with his thumb, still processing what he’d just realized.

I like Marinette, he repeated in his mind. The thought of the wonderful girl who sat behind him in school sent his heart in leaps and bounds. He thought about every time he has held her close, how her aroma comforted him. He thought about all the great times they have, how they enjoy each other’s company, and how carefree she was with him. How she started showing that freedom with his civilian identity more often now.

He thought about the times she saved his life. He thought about the times she addressed the class as president. He thought about her creations. He thought about the way she presented herself on the Evening Show with Kudret.

And he could clearly see why he was falling for her.

Helping out in the bakery was done. Saving clean clothes in her closet, also done. Worked on new designs, did her homework, clean up her desk. Done, done and done. There was only one thing left to do: sit crossed legged on her chaise and think about what she had been avoiding all day.

She almost wished an akuma would show up, but that would also mean seeing Chat earlier than programmed, so she let go of that wish.

Because the one thing she was dreading was seeing Chat.

“Marinette, you’ve been sitting there for two whole minutes,” Tikki chirped, invading the girl’s line of view. “You’re starting to worry me.”

Marinette opened her mouth, but closed it almost instantly. Truth be told, she didn’t know what was up with her. All she knew was that she felt… strange. About Chat. Something he did or said the previous day…

“He called me beautiful,” her subconscious let slip. She blinked, at last finding the source of that tingling feeling in her stomach. “Chat Noir called me beautiful yesterday.”

“So?” Tikki shrugged. “Hasn’t he called you that tons of times before?”

“As Ladybug, yeah. But as Marinette…” she thought for a moment, “not very often.”

She sat still, trying to think of all the times he called her beautiful as Marinette, but could only come up with two: the time before fighting Monsieur Barbier and the times from the previous day. What was more, both times he mentioned the nickname ‘Princess of Paris.’

“It’s probably nothing,” she resolved, her fingers fidgeting. “It’s probably just part of his nickname for me.” Was it just her, or did that sting a little? “Besides, I’m probably not the only girl he calls beautiful.” Ow.

“That’s a lot of probablys” Tikki mumbled, before letting out a hearty breath. With a flutter, she zoomed to her charge’s knee and sat crossed legged. “Why do you care in what context he calls you beautiful?” she questioned.

Marinette’s face contorted.

“It’s not that I care!” she corrected. “I just find it odd, that’s all. And I guess a little careless if he starts flirting around with every girl he meets.”

“You know he doesn’t do that,” Tikki half scolded her charge. “Besides, you used to think he did that, and never gave it much thought. Where is this all coming from?”

Marinette took a minute to think. Why was she bringing all this up? It wasn’t like it made any difference in their friendship. Or did it? No, it makes no difference, she assured herself.

“You’re right, Tikki,” she sighed. “I’m getting worked up over nothing. Not even I know where that came from. I’m being silly.”

She gave Tikki a sheepish smile, but noticed the little goddess didn’t seem convinced.

“What?”

“I might know what’s going on.”

“But you were just asking me,” Marinette frowned. “Why would you ask me if you already know?”

“I wanted to know if you had noticed it yet.”

“Noticed what?”

Tikki sighed. She opened and closed her mouth several times, as if undecided whether to say it or not. She then took a deep breath and opened her mouth one more time.

“I—”

THUD

The two looked up to the ceiling. Marinette then looked at the time on her phone: it was too early for Chat to visit, and he was usually much quieter. By instinct, she grabbed the Chinese umbrella hanging off the back of the chaise and made her way upstairs.

 Chat Noir dusted off his suit with trembling hands. It had been a while since he had such an ungraceful landing. But his nerves seemed to be in charge at the moment.

“Okay,” he took a deep breath. “You can do this. It’s just like every other time. Just a normal visit to your friend Marinette.”

But his mind corrected “friend Marinette” to “girlfriend Marinette,” in a voice suspiciously alike Plagg’s.

“I can’t do this!”

As quickly as he could, he crossed the balcony, grabbed hold of the railing, placed a foot on it—

“Chat?”

And froze.

Dammit! He thought, already starting to panic. It turned out trying to get over the visit earlier did not make matters easier.

“What are you doing here so early? Are you okay?” Marinette asked from behind him.

No. He downed a large gulp while slowly putting his foot back on the ground. He took a deep breath and used the most casual tone he could muster.

“Hey Princess! Wazzup?” he said as he turned and gave her finger guns. Marinette arched and eyebrow. It was then that he noticed she was holding an umbrella. “What’s that for?”

“Oh! I… thought you might be an intruder,” she gave him a sheepish grin that sent Chat’s heart into a frenzy. So, to calm it, he focused on the red umbrella.

Man, it sucks being aware of my feelings, Chat thought miserably.

“You okay?” Marinette asked again.

Oh God, she’s asking again.

“Me? Pfft, I’m feline great.” He waved a hand in dismissal. “Never better. Totally clawsome today. So, so purrfect.”

Chat internally cringed at the amount of cat puns he was letting out.

“I see,” Marinette responded at last. “Is that why you’re letting out such catastrophic puns?”

…

Oh, it’s on.

“I’ll have you know that my puns are top marks.”

“Not today, minou,” Marinette chuckled, yet somehow managed to sound concerned too, making Chat lose his bravado. “Seriously, Chat, what’s wrong?”

The boy looked into her eyes (had they always shined so much?), and could no longer find it in him to pretend. But he still couldn’t tell her the whole truth.

“I’m just… going through some stuff,” he resolved to say.

“Wanna talk about it?”

Chat gave her a pained look. “I can’t.”

“Oh,” Marinette uttered, as her shoulders slumped. Chat couldn’t help but wince.

“Marinette, I promise that I trust you, but this is something—”

“Hey, no, you don’t have to explain,” Marinette cut in. She then gave him a soft smile. “I, better than anyone, know you can’t tell me everything, especially if it endangers your secret identity.”

“I’m sorry,” Chat Noir sighed, cat ears drooping.

“Hey,” Marinette used the point of her umbrella to lift his chin, “don’t be. I’m sure you would tell me if you could.”

Chat Noir gave her a lopsided grin, thankful that she used the umbrella and not her (probably soft) hand.

“Is there anything I can do?” she asked.

“You can distract me.” To keep my mouth shut, he mentally added.

Marinette tapped her lip in thought. Then looked at the umbrella and smiled.

“Did I ever tell you the story behind this umbrella?” she chirped.

Chat Noir blinked, looking at the object that was usually hanging off the girl’s chaise. Slowly, he shook his head.

“It used to be my grand-maman’s,” she explained, giving the umbrella a twirl before opening it. “She gave it to maman when they moved to Paris. Maman was lonely in a strange country, so grand-maman said that, as long as she had this umbrella, she’d always have a piece of home and would never be lonely.”

The boy furrowed his brows. Marinette continued.

“When I was younger, Chloé decided to be extra nasty to me, and I was left friendless for a little while. One day, maman came into my room and told me her story. She then gave me this and promised me I would never be alone again, and it would protect me of any negative emotion that tries to overtake me. And you wanna know a secret?”

Chat Noir nodded.

“I met my friend Kim the very next day,” she smiled. “He then introduced me to Max and Alix. Then Ivan and Mylène, and so on. Haven’t been alone since.”

The boy returned a kind smile.

“That’s some powerful magic,” he said quietly. Marinette took another look at him, so he moved his gaze to the ground. But his plain of view was quickly invaded by her hand, holding on to the handle of the umbrella.

“Take it,” she said.

Chat Noir gawked at her for a moment.

“N-No!” he blurted out. “I could never—It’s not mine—”

“I’m sure you’ll give it back,” she said, with that shining beam of hers once again. “I just think you need it more than I do right now.”

The boy’s lips parted. He could feel his heart thrumming in his chest, an excitement rising inside him. A feeling he recognized. Something he had felt sometimes, when he was very close to her. A desire? Yes, that was it.

A desire to kiss her.

His cheeks reddened, and to shake off the feeling, he swallowed and slowly reached for the handle of the umbrella. For a brief moment, his index brushed with hers, sending a spark through his veins that reached his heart. He got so flustered, he accidentally pressed a button on the handle and the umbrella closed on his face.

“Pfft,” Marinette snickered, but quickly clapped her hands to her mouth.

Chat Noir liberated himself as delicately as he could, only to find the girl before him shaking.

“You can laugh,” he chuckled.

Without needing more prompting, Marinette let out a hearty laugh that only sent Chat Noir’s heart into a frenzy. She looked so carefree and happy.

And he did that.

Almost instantly, Chat Noir was laughing too. It was almost like the night before, except this time, Chat knew exactly why he was laughing: Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Her laughter was contagious, and it made him happy.

“Oh, before I forget,” Marinette pipped up, finally controlling her fit. “I got a call from the Margot and Dorian Show, and they said that they want to interview us.”

The boy’s giggles died away.

“Us?” he frowned.

“Yeah, you and me,” Marinette cleared up. “I know we’ve been avoiding interviews together, but I think it would be a good idea for both of us to go on this one.”

“Isn’t that show the one that was saying—” But Chat Noir stopped abruptly, remembering what they had said.

“Yeah, I know,” Marinette waved a hand dismissively. “They’re the ones who said you’re in love with and that I’m two-timing you with Adrien.”

Exactly. Chat Noir gulped.

“But I think it’s a perfect opportunity to set the record straight, don’t you think?” she finished.

The boy stared at her, like she had grown a second head.

Set the record straight?! How am I supposed to tell a crew of cameras that I don’t have feelings for you, when I clearly do? Wait— Those guys noticed it before I did!

“Y-yeah,” Chat Noir pushed himself to say through gritted teeth. “That sounds like a plan.”

“Great!” Marinette clasped her hands together. “They invited us for the special Saturday show next week. So we have the entire week to get ready.”

And for my feelings to possibly become stronger, Chat Noir bitterly thought. He didn’t think he would long for the days he didn’t know about his new crush. It had been so easy to deny it before.

“Sounds good,” he sighed.

“Chat,” Marinette frowned. “You don’t have to, if you feel uncomfortable.”

The boy blinked. While he did feel self-conscious, he couldn’t exactly leave her to the wolves on her own.

“I’ll make it,” he said, more firmly this time. “Count on me, Marinette.”

“Thank you, chaton,” the designer smiled.

Chat Noir did his best not to let out a whimper of misery, as his stomach lurched the second Marinette curved her lips. Why is she being cuter than usual?! And the nickname did not help matters.

The same affectionate nickname Ladybug often called him by.

I’m screwed, he thought.

“And I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of you in the fashion business in the future.”

Nadja Chamack concluded her second interview with Marinette. Unlike last time, this one had gone smoothly, and had been much more focused on the girl’s achievements than her love life.

“We will now move on to calls from our audience, if you don’t mind Marinette,” she informed.

“Not at all,” Marinette agreed.

“Great. We already have our first caller,” Nadja announced. “Good afternoon, you’re on the air.”

“Yeah, I have a question for Marinette about Chat Noir,” the caller said. “Is he your boyfriend? Because they keep saying that he is.”

Marinette shifted in her seat. She expected the question, and now was the time to make sure things were clear.

“No,” she firmly stated. “He’s not my boyfriend or anything. I just happen to save him a few times and I’ve seen him once or twice when he patrols. But that’s it.”

“But that’s not what some friend of yours said,” the caller insisted.

“Ma’am, we already cleared this up earlier,” Nadja intervened. “The comments of Lila Rossi have been denied as truth. Even Miss Rossi made a public apology herself. Next caller.”

This time, a man spoke. “Good afternoon, I just wanna say that what you did, while it was pretty brave, I think you should leave it to the superheroes. A little girl like you shouldn’t be playing hero.”

Marinette’s eye twitched. If only you knew.

“I wasn’t trying to play hero,” she defended herself between deep breaths. “Sometimes instincts beat the brain.” She finished with a nervous laugh.

“Thank you for your input. Next caller,” Nadja rushed through, looking at a clock on the wall.

“Hi. I was listening and I realized it was never asked if you, Marinette, have been a more constant target for akumas lately. Has it happened?” the person, that sounded like a young woman, asked.

Marinette couldn’t help but smile. A real question, for once. “Thank you so much for that question, and the answer is yes, unfortunately. People think having a connection with Chat Noir is cool, but it has brought a lot of misfortune for me when it comes to akuma attacks.”

“That sucks. Hope you don’t get more trouble, Miss,” the caller added.

The girl’s smile grew softer at the concern of the person. It was rare for the good ones to show themselves.

“Thank you so much, but that’s all the time we have,” Nadja announced. “Thank you, Marinette, for taking the time to come to our show. With this we conclude today’s edition of The Interview with Chamack. I’m Nadja Chamack, and don’t be bemused, it’s just the news.”

A music played through the reporter’s headphones, and the ON AIR light was turned off.

“Thank you again for giving me a second chance,” Nadja said once again, but this time it was directed to Marinette, and not the microphone.

“It was nice to have a second chance at this interview,” Marinette said. “Last time was a disaster.”

“It really was,” Nadja agreed. “But I gotta say, you handled yourself like a champ this time. You were so nervous the first time around and gave such vague answers. But today you were a whole new Marinette.”

“Hehe, yeah.” The girl scratched the back of her head as she started to get up from her chair. “Guess I stopped caring about how I might sound, or something.”

Nadja nodded, while she started directing Marinette out of the studio, where Sabine and Alya were waiting.

“And what about Alya’s coaching?” the reporter asked as they entered the console room.

“Oh, yeah, that’s been a huge help,” Marinette added. While it wasn’t a lie, it felt like half a lie, at least. The girl had never been as hopeless as she initially led them to believe.

“It better be,” Alya joked. “Girl, you did great! I think you’re ready for the Margot and Dorian Show.”

Nadja halted.

“Please tell me you didn’t just say the Margot and Dorian Show,” she intervened. The women looked at each other and nodded. That sole action made the reporter inhale deeply and bring her index to her lips, like she wanted to say something, but didn’t dare to.

“Just say it,” Sabine sighed.

“I highly advice against that show,” the reporter blurted out.

“I think Marinette’s been through enough to know how to handle rowdy reporters—”

“No, you don’t understand,” Nadja interrupted, starting to sound insistent. “What I did was unethical journalism, but Margot and Dorian… They’re not journalists. They’re people who hide under the pretext of press to invade people’s privacy and invent stories. And the worst part is that a lot of people believe them.”

“But those people are the prime example of trashy television,” Alya added.

“Yet a lot of people eat it up,” Nadja responded. “Even worse, they have someone who did study journalism, but uses her skills for gossip and garbage. I’m sure you’ve heard of Anabelle Billard.”

Marinette’s brows furrowed. “Sounds familiar…”

“It should,” the reporter stated. “She was the one who interviewed Miss Rossi, and also the one who sent the video of Adrien pulling you into the school the day after our interview. She’s vicious, and could even be dangerous.”

Alya suddenly snapped her fingers. “I remember her,” she said. “But I didn’t know she worked for them.”

“And she’s very good at her job,” Nadja added.

Marinette sighed. “Well, she can’t be that good, because she’s yet to uncover my deepest darkest secrets,” she joked, nose pointing up. When she saw at the questioning looks of the other women, she decided to make herself clearer. “All I’m saying is that, after everything we’ve been through, I’m sure we can handle anything she throws at us.”

“I hope so,” the reporter muttered.

“Don’t worry about it,” Marinette made the most reassuring pose she could, chest puffed out and fists on her hips. “Chat Noir and I will be a team, and he won’t let me down. Besides, it’s not like we have anything to hide. Once Margot and Dorian see that their assumptions of Chat’s love for me are wrong, they will be the ones feeling exposed.”

“You have the strangest moments for confidence,” Alya laughed, placing an elbow on her best friend’s shoulder.

“Whatever happens, I’ll be there with her,” Sabine assured. “But thank you for warning us.”

Nadja smiled at her friend. A smile that looked more appreciative than anything else. One that was thankful that Sabine had forgiven her.

“Yeah,” Marinette added. “I promise to be careful with what I say.”

“In any case, I’ll keep coaching her,” Alya pointed at herself with a thumb.

“Good,” Nadja sighed.

Marinette nodded one last time. She appreciated Nadja’s concern, but she also couldn’t wait to clear the air with Margot and Dorian. After Chat’s last visit, she was beginning to worry that their words had gotten to him to some degree. There was something… off about him. He seemed jumpy, for some reason.

But maybe this would do them good. Clear the air. Making the news meaningless. But most of all, stop feeling so tense every time she got close to the boy.

“Where is he?” Marinette asked for the hundredth time.

And for the hundredth time, Chat Noir heard from afar.

He had gotten there early, but decided to stay hidden up on the metal beams on the ceiling of the studio. Even thought he had promised he’d be there for her, there was a very strong part of him that wanted to disappear. After he visited Marinette the week before, the boy did his best to hide his feelings, whether it was as Chat Noir or as Adrien.

Yo, bro, wanna hang out with the girls? Nino had asked.

Sorry, I gotta, uh… practice piano, Adrien lamely answered.

Hey, dude, you mind giving this book to Marinette? Alya had requested.

No, I gotta, um… a shooting, sorry, he excused.

Hey Adrien, you mind making a quick pose for a sketch? Marinette had had the guts to say.

I-I…um, pfft-I uh…Shower got to—I-I mean, Igottashower, Adrien had spluttered, leaving Marinette bewildered.

And as Chat Noir, he hadn’t fared much better. Every time she got close, he got dazed by her smell. Every time she laughed, his heart would accelerate. Every time she smiled, he just wanted to kiss her. Each and every passing day, what he predicted became true: his feelings got stronger.

And seeing Marinette from afar, hanging out with Félix did not help matters.

From the way she acted with him, Adrien was more convinced that she thought Félix was Chat Noir. The guy didn’t exactly scream Chat Noir, but he continued to call Marinette by Princess every now and then. It drove Adrien crazy, yet there was nothing he could do about it. Only hope the girl he liked didn’t fall for it.

And that hope strengthened his feelings, and his determination for her. He knew it sounded selfish, but just this once, he didn’t care.

“I’ve looked everywhere. Still can’t find him,” Alya walked up to Marinette, shaking her head.

“No luck.” Sabine joined the other two.

Marinette gave an exasperated sigh. “We’re on in like five minutes. Where the heck is he?”

“Maybe he’s waiting for the right moment to make a grand entrance,” Alya huffed, crossing her arms.

“Maybe,” Marinette said, pacing and distracted. “It wouldn’t be unlike him… You guys mind giving one last round?”

Sabine and Alya nodded and wished the designer luck, just in case. The moment they were gone, Marinette started looking around. She then looked up. Chat tried to hide, but from the deadpan look on the girl’s face, he figured he failed.

“Chat Noir, you get your tail down here this instant,” she scolded, pointing a finger to the ground.

The boy let out a whimper before extending his staff into a pole and sliding down in front of the designer.

“Hello Mari,” he shamefully greeted, gaze on the floor.

“I told you, you didn’t have to come if you didn’t want to,” Marinette said.

“I couldn’t just leave you alone with those two. They’re awful,” Chat insisted. A question then occurred to him. “How did you know to look for me?”

“Alya gave me the idea,” Marinette explained. “You do have a tendency to be theatrical. But I get the feeling that’s not why you were hiding up there.”

Chat Noir scratched the back of his head.

“Chat, you don’t have to do this.”

“Yes, I do.” He grabbed her hand. “We’re in this together, right? What kind of a cat would I be if I left my master hanging?”

“Cats leave their masters all the time.”

“But they always come back,” Chat grinned. Marinette smiled back, and the boy was quickly reminded on why he had considered running.

“Thank you.”

“Anytime, Princess.” Without thinking, Chat Noir lifted the hand he was holding to his lips and gave it a soft kiss. “I’m always loyal to you.”

He brought his eyes up to hers and instantly froze. Her eyes were wide, her cheeks were pink, her mouth was in the shape of an ‘o’. She too was petrified.

“M-Mari?” he stammered.

Marinette only let out a few ‘ers’ and ‘ums’. At last, she resolved in giving a large, dorky smile that Chat Noir had only seen in his civilian form. And for some reason, it made his heart skip a beat.

The second he felt that leap, he let go of the hand, as if it had burnt him.

“Thirty seconds ‘till we’re live,” a man yelled.

The two teens quickly took a step away from each other, each dealing with their fluster as much as they could. After several breaths, Chat Noir asked: “Ready?”

“Y-yeah, ready,” Marinette nodded.

“Everyone in position,” the man, who was the producer, called to everyone. From the hosts that were sitting on the center of the stage, to the crowd that was murmuring behind the cameras. “We go live in five, four, three, two…”

He raised one finger and pointed it at the hosts of the show. The music started, cameras slid across the studio and the crowd started applauding.

“Welcome back, lovelies, to the Margot and Dorian Show, Saturday Edition,” Margot started, waving her blonde hair. “And we’re gonna start this segment with a very special interview.”

“That’s right,” Dorian added, in his usual chipper tone, despite the professionalism his suit suggested. “This is the moment everyone’s been waiting for, isn’t it Margot?”

“Indeed, it is, Dorian,” Margot responded, overly-energetic. “You’ve seen them in social media, you’ve heard them on the radio, and we have them right here with us.”

“Please welcome, CHAT NOIR AND THE GIRL WHO SAVED HIM!” Dorian called.

In unison, Chat Noir and Marinette took a deep breath just as they stepped on the stage. Applauses invaded their ears. Lights blinded them momentarily. They tried to walk at a reasonable speed. At last, they reached one of the famous purple couches from the show.

The crowd quieted down.

“Welcome, welcome, welcome,” Margot said, excitedly. The two teens merely gave shy waves. “How good it is to have you two here. I must ask Marinette, where did you get that cute purse?”

That’s a stupid question, Chat Noir grumbled internally.

“Oh, I made it myself,” Marinette answered, almost mechanically.

“It’s super cute. Anyway, into the real stuff, what’s it like to save a superhero?” the blonde woman asked.

“Please, spare no details,” Dorian chuckled.

“Well,” Marinette drawled for a moment. “I honestly wasn’t thinking about it at the moment, but I guess it feels like saving anybody else.”

“Uh huh, uh huh,” Margot nodded. “And what about you, Chat Noir, what’s it like for a civilian to save you?”

“Pretty much the same,” he commented. “I get saved by Ladybug all the time, so I’m kinda used to it.”

“Are you comparing Marinette with Ladybug?” Dorian quickly asked.

Chat Noir almost choked. “NO!” He coughed. “No, I would never do that. I can’t compare them, that’s not fair. I mean—” the urge to slap himself became strong. “That’s not what I meant. That’s all.”

Almost immediately, Chat felt an elbow hit his ribs, unbeknownst to the crowd.

“Then what did you mean?” Dorian pushed, leaning slightly.

Control yourself, control yourself, control yourself. Chat Noir continued to repeat the phrase over and over in his head, in the hopes of calming his nerves.

“Ahem, what I meant was that it’s unfair to compare a civilian with a superhero, for obvious reasons.” Go on. “What Marinette did was very… unique. I’m just, personally, used to getting saved every now and then.”

He could’ve sworn he saw a glimmer of disappointment in the hosts faces with his answer. He would count that as a victory, but he still couldn’t help but worry.

“Well, very unique indeed, right Marinette?” Margot directed her gaze back to the designer. Marinette merely responded with a feeble ‘yes.’ “Something that only Ladybug would do. Speaking of Ladybug,” Margot exaggerated, as if it had just popped into her mind. But Chat Noir knew better. “We tried getting her for the show, but she refused our invitation. Any idea on why, Chat Noir?”

Because she knows better. “I’m sure she had her reasons,” he answered out loud. “But I’m guessing she didn’t think this subject needs her commentary on it.”

“Now, you would think that,” Dorian intervened. “But word has it that she yelled and threatened a poor reporter for simply asking about the nature of your relationship with her—”

“That’s not what happened,” Marinette and Chat Noir interrupted in unison, both scowling.

There was a short pause, where the crowd started muttering between themselves.

“Oooh, then what did happen?” Margot pushed, moving to the edge of her seat, yet still making sure her white dress continued to look impeccable.

It took only a glimpse from Marinette for him to know he was the one who had to tell the story. Then again, she wasn’t there, he reminded himself.

“That reporter was asking questions that had nothing to do with the akuma that showed up that night. Ladybug refused to respond because it wasn’t the place or time, or his business.”

“Right, we heard you’re in love with Ladybug,” Dorian intervened.

Chat Noir tensed, and he could swear Marinette did the same.

“I have to ask, what is my purpose here?” Marinette suddenly burst, starting to sound irritated. “I’ve only been asked like two questions, and one of them wasn’t even a proper one. Can I go?”

“Oh, dear Marinette, of course you have a purpose,” Margot clasped her hands together. “But before we get to you, we want a response from Chat Noir. Are you in love with Ladybug?”

The boy took a deep breath. “No,” he responded what he and Marinette had agreed to lie about earlier in the week. “Marinette only said that because she wanted to get back at me for talking too much about her admiration of me,” his heart did a quick summersault, “so she said she got tempted to say that just to shut me up. But no, I am not in love with Ladybug.”

Except I totally am, but I can’t tell her now because I just realized I’m also in—woah, Chat Noir stopped himself before finishing that sentence. No, that’s too far, I’m not there yet… I think.

Panic started to rise.

“That’s right,” Marinette said as he tried to even his breathing. “We were having a private conversation which was taken out of context. But I meant it as a joke. It’s not fact.”

“Hmm, I see,” Dorian nodded, exaggerated. “I don’t know about you, Margot, but I’m confused.”

“Me too, Dorian,” Margot responded. “There’s been so much information flying about, I don’t know what to believe anymore. I think we need to call an expert.”

“We definitely have to.”

“Who should we call.”

“Oh, you know who.”

Oh, just get on with it.

“I definitely do. Please welcome to the stage our very own, Anabelle Billard!”

There was a new round of applause when a portly, middle aged redhead stepped into the light and started waving to the cameras. What was more, she looked…

Chat Noir immediately glared at her the second he recognized the woman. He’d seen her before, in a crowd of rowdy reporters incessantly asking questions to Marinette outside their school. Because of her, he had had to intervene, so the girl in question didn’t say something she could later regret.

It was the woman who had dared to ask Marinette if she was two-timing Chat Noir and Adrien Agreste.

And from the look on Marinette’s darkening face, she remembered her too.

“It’s good to be here,” Anabelle spoke quietly as she sat down in an additional chair between the hosts and the invited couple.

“Anabelle, you know so much more on this story than we do,” Margot feigned ignorance. “Tell us; what are the facts, so far?”

“Well, the fact is that these kids change their story more than Hawkmoth changes akuma,” she said, in a firm, confident tone that made Chat Noir’s blood boil.

There was a collective ‘ooohhh’ from the crowd.

“Are you implying that I’m a liar?” Marinette scowled, hand squeezing the arm of her chair.

“I have been studying every public appearance the two of you have had, and I noticed a discrepancy between the story you tell and the way you act,” Anabelle explained. “Here’s the thing, Margot: when these two are interviewed, after the FMi incident of course, they know exactly what to say. But when they’re caught off guard, their attitudes towards each other changes dramatically, to the point Marinette has her own nickname. Right Princess? Or is Princess of Paris your full name?”

Chat Noir’s heart did a flip, hearing someone else call Marinette by the nickname he had reserved for her, and her alone.

“I don’t—”

“He doesn’t—”

“I have proof,” Anabelle interrupted them. She then directed her gaze to Marinette. “I’ve been analyzing the videos of your rescues, and noticed in both occasions Chat Noir called you by the same nickname. I also have witnesses that say he called you by said name before fighting an akuma in your school, called Chatte Noire. Yet, none of the other women he’s rescued have claimed the nickname. Care to comment, Dupain-Cheng?”

“So what?” Chat Noir blurted out, almost over Anabelle’s last question, heart racing. “I give nicknames to people all the time. Why not Marinette? Especially after saving me twice.”

“Except, after analyzing the first video, I noticed you called her so before rescuing you. In fact,” she waved a hand, “why don’t we play the first video? Keep in mind, we’ve enhanced background sounds to better hear the conversation that went down that day.”

Why the hell did we think this was a good idea?! Chat Noir mentally kicked himself.

Just then, the screen behind them showed a transition animation, right before playing that very first video that started it all.

The image was shaky, showing vines crashing all over the place. One dragged a girl out of a fabrics shop, who was furiously trying to free herself, to no avail. The person recording got closer, just when the girl seemed to have called someone. Seconds later, the superhero landed, and the video stopped.

“Listen closely to the conversation we managed to salvage,” Anabelle pointed out.

The video played once again, and the conversation was finally heard.

“…in these situations?” Chat Noir finished.

“Just get me out of here!” Marinette insisted. Chat Noir gave a small giggle.

“Cataclysm!” he yelled, making the vines evaporate in a black mist. He then managed to catch her before hitting the ground, arm wrapped around her back.

“You’re lucky I like you, Princess. I might have left you if—”

“Look out!”

“Right there!” Anabelle stopped the video, just as Marinette was pulling Chat Noir by the bell to save him. “Not only does Chat Noir call her Princess, but he admitted to like her the very day Dupain-Cheng saved him the first time.”

There was another collective ‘ooohhh’ from the crowd. Meanwhile, Chat Noir placed a hand over his mouth as discreetly as possible, covering his heating cheeks as much as he could. And the frozen image with Marinette pulling on his bell did not help matters.

“He was obviously joking,” Marinette affirmed, brows knitted together. “I think it’s already been established that Chat Noir is the theatrical one of the pair. And, again, like he said; he gives nicknames to everyone.”

“Sure, that could be all,” Anabelle waved a hand dismissively. “Except that it is not only his commentary that’s intriguing, but also your demand, Dupain-Cheng, that he rescue you. Now, from what I’ve gathered, you tend to be a… generally well-mannered girl, yet you acted so… unbothered.”

Chat Noir inhaled deeply and shifted his eyes towards Marinette. Who seemed… livid.

“Well,” she started slowly, “I don’t know if you’ve ever been a target for an akuma, Billard, but from my experience, you don’t exactly have time to gawk at a superhero. The only thing the adrenaline makes you think about is: ‘how am I gonna get out of this alive?’ So excuse my lack of tact in a stressful situation.”

To finish it off, Marinette smirked and rested her elbow on the arm of the chair. The one she had been squeezing only moments before. Like it was nothing.

It was so….

Flawless.

Chat couldn’t help but stare at his current partner in crime for how flawlessly she batted that question. Even better than how she started the interview with Kudret. That confidence that made her look like an almost completely different person and was just so… so…

His cheeks felt even hotter.

“Are you sure it was lack of tact and not familiarity?” Anabelle pushed.

“Absolutely.” Marinette nodded. “Besides, Chat Noir probably doesn’t even have time to hang out with civilians. Right, Chat Noir?”

Crap!

The boy’s eyes widened their stare at the girl beside him, hand still over his mouth, which he hadn’t dared to move. He could feel everyone’s eyes on him. He could see Marinette stare at him. He knew he was supposed to respond. But he was frozen with an uncontrollable blush that simply refused to leave.

“Chat Noir?” she asked. Yet, even though she sounded worried, her eyes were begging him to say something. He swallowed, but it didn’t help.

“Cat got your tongue?” Anabelle dared to quip.

Instantly, both Chat Noir and Marinette shifted their gazes to the reporter, Marinette with a scowl. The cat hero, in the meantime, managed to get his breathing under control. Because that was one comment he would not stand for.

“No,” he finally responded, slightly croaked. “I don’t have time to waste on befriending civilians. I have more important things to do, like protecting Paris, for example.”

“And yet here you are,” the redhead poked, pushing up her red trimmed glasses. “Spending your time in an interview with the same civilian, once again, instead of patrolling the city.”

“You invited us!” Marinette’s arms flailed.

“You get mad if I don’t patrol, but you also get mad when either me or Ladybug refuse an interview. It’s like there’s no winning with you guys!”

“Because you refuse to admit the truth,” Anabelle pushed once again.

“What truth?!” Chat Noir and Marinette yelled in unison.

“That you two are in love!” she finished.

“This is ridiculous! We’re not a thing!” Marinette cleared up for the hundredth time. “How many times do I have to say it?”

Marinette continued numbering the times she has had to clarify the status of their relationship, but Chat Noir barely paid attention. All he kept thinking about was how Anabelle was half right in her conclusion. While he didn’t feel in love yet, his feelings had become strong enough for him to contemplate the possibility that he could, potentially, fall in love with her.

But she can’t know that, he reminded himself. Neither Marinette or Anabelle could know, for completely different reasons. He sighed. If I can deny my love for Ladybug on live TV, I can deny my feelings for Marinette.

“Do I need to repeat it?” Marinette finished.

“That’s right,” Chat Noir intervened, straightening his posture, ready to lie his way out of this mess, even if it hurt. “I don’t have feelings for Marinette, no matter how many times I call her Princess. The truth is that I would never be with her, not only because of the obvious,” he pointed at his mask, “but I don’t even know her well enough for that. And even if I did know her better, I still wouldn’t be with her. It’s just never going to happen. Not in a million years I would be with Marinette.”

The boy exhaled with difficulty, but kept his eyes directed at Anabelle, ignoring the stabbing pain in his heart. Another round of murmurs began in the crowd. The reporter fixed her glasses as she glanced at the girl beside him. A spark shone in her eye, but Chat Noir continued scowling at her, hoping to intimidate her somehow.

“That’s too bad,” she said, the edge of her mouth twitching. Like it was holding a smile.

“Well, that was in-tense,” Margot intervened, with her over-energetic attitude once again. “But unfortunately, that’s all the time we have left, as we need to go on a commercial break. But stay tuned, because we have many more surprises coming your way in the Margot and Dorian Show, Saturday Edition. We’ll be right back!”

A music played, the crowd applauded and a man behind one of the cameras yelled cut. Conversation spread among the crowd, and Chat Noir was more than ready to leave the cursed studio.

“I’ve learned a lot today,” Anabelle commented.

“Yeah, well, that’s all you’re learning for ever. Come on Mari—” But the boy didn’t finish his sentence, because when he turned to look at said girl, she had already gotten up and was walking away from the stage. He frowned.

“I have a feeling we’ll be seeing each other again,” Anabelle stated, fixing her glasses once again.

Chat Noir gave her one last scowl, before leaping behind the sofa and rushing in Marinette’s direction. He had just reached her, when Alya and Sabine showed up.

“Girl, you just pulled off a miracle!” the young reporter said, while she slapped her hands to her friend’s shoulders. “You left Anabelle Billard with no words. That was awesome!”

“I’m so proud of you,” Sabine added, placing a hand on her daughter’s cheek. “But I don’t think I’ll allow another interview with that horrible woman. She almost massacred you two out there.”

“Y-yeah,” Marinette stammered, gaze towards the ground. “I-I suppose…we did do a good job.”

“Good job?! It was an awesome job!” Alya cheered on. “When you said that thing about your lack of tact, I literally squealed. Just ask Mrs. Cheng.”

“She really did,” Sabine laughed. “Come on. We have to take Alya home.”

“Marinette?” Chat Noir blurted out.

The three women turned to look at him. It was then that he noticed Marinette’s eyes seemed to have lost their shine. Something was bothering her.

“I-I…” but he didn’t know what to say. He was afraid a reporter would suddenly jump out, and a private conversation would once again become public.

“Thanks for the help, dude. We can take it from here,” Alya intervened, giving him a warning with her eyes.

“Right,” Chat Noir deflated.

Alya and Sabine softly pulled Marinette towards the exit. He wanted to go after her, find out what was wrong, but it was too risky.

Perhaps he needed a new strategy.

The spray bottle rolled on Marinette’s desk for the fourth time, sent by its very owner. The girl rested her head on one of her arms, while the other kept mussing with Chat Noir’s gift. She hadn’t been there for long. Only minutes ago she had gotten back from the most awful interview she had been in so far. It may had been seen like a success by everyone else, but for the pig-tailed girl, she saw very little reason to celebrate.

“Marinette?” Tikki called once again, after the many times she did since they got home.

Without uttering a word, Marinette got up, spray bottle in hand, and walked down the stairs. She didn’t even stop to make sure her kwami got in her purse, trusting in the swishing sound she heard before closing the trapdoor. As she got to the kitchen, she let her parents know she was going out and exited the apartment.

While it had been her intention to walk around the streets, she only got as far as the park by her house and collapsed onto a bench. She stared at the spray bottle in her hands, finger stroking the green cap. For some reason, half her mind wanted to hug it close, while the other wanted to chuck it.

“Marinette, what’s wrong?” Tikki placed her paws on her charge’s arm. But the girl didn’t respond. “Please, talk to me.”

Marinette continued to hesitate for a few more seconds, undecided on whether to talk or make up her mind about the spray bottle.

“I’m…” she started. “I’m hurt.”

“Hurt?!” Tikki’s antennae stood straight, surprised. “Why? What happened?”

“Didn’t you hear?!” Marinette snapped, finally looking at the kwami. “Not in a million years I would be with Marinette,” she mocked Chat Noir. “What? I’m not good enough for the great Chat Noir or his dumb famous secret identity? Tsk. I swear, if I could, I would reveal myself just to make him bite his tongue.”

“Why do you care?”

“I don’t!”

“Yes you do,” Tikki snapped. “Otherwise you wouldn’t be this upset. The question is why.”

“I don’t know!” Marinette finally cracked. “I don’t know, okay? I—” she searched for an answer, “I guess I’m offended that he would want Ladybug, but not her civilian identity. It’s rude.”

“But he doesn’t know!” Tikki reasoned. “Besides, who’s to say he didn’t just say that for the cameras?”

Marinette opened her mouth to retort, but closed it almost immediately, with eyebrows knitted together.

“You think he didn’t mean it?” she asked instead.

The kwami placed her tiny jaw on her nubby hands.

“I think it’s a possibility,” she responded with a soft smile.

Marinette’s eye’s shifted from side to side, like she was trying to figure out something.

“Tikki?” The kwami hummed. “What’s happening to me? Why am I being like this?”

“I can’t always tell you what you’re feeling.”

“But you know, don’t you?”

Tikki nodded. Marinette sighed and started thinking. What was the real reason she was upset?

“Do I feel like I’m losing my partner?” Marinette looked at Tikki for a reaction. And a deadpan look was what she got.

“Marinette, I know you’re not this dense,” the kwami said.

Marinette cringed. It was like whatever it was, it was at the tip of her tongue, but a sort of denial was holding her back.

“I can’t—”

“Marinette!” Tikki scolded. “I can’t always tell you when you like a boy!”

The girl almost chocked on her own saliva. “Like a boy?!” she repeated, incredulous. “I don’t—” but she stopped abruptly as a couple passed by. When they were out of earshot, she started again, more hushed this time. “I don’t have feelings for Chat Noir.”

“PAH! Yeah right,” Tikki laughed. “You gave him your umbrella.”

“So? Adrien gave me his, doesn’t mean he has feelings for me.”

“Yours was a family heirloom,” Tikki deadpanned.

Marinette’s face contorted. “He’ll give it back.”

“And you’ve been trying to find out his identity,” the goddess added.

“No I haven’t,” Marinette denied, starting to shift uncomfortably in her seat. When she saw her kwami boring her gaze into her, she felt the need to retract her words. “I mean, not intentionally. I happened to find a lead and I held onto it. But it’s not like I’m investigating to see if I’m right.”

“You were googling Félix two days ago,” Tikki deadpanned, again.

“I wanted to know if he was famous, like he said,” Marinette defended.

“You wanted to know how much he fit the profile for Chat Noir.”

“No I didn’t.”

“Urgh!” Tikki gave an exasperated sigh. “You can be so stubborn sometimes.”

Marinette huffed and sunk down in her seat. She stared harder at the bottle in her hands.

“Why is it so hard for you to admit that you may like Chat Noir as more than a friend?” Tikki asked.

“Because that would mean I didn’t love Adrien,” Marinette confessed, without missing a beat.

All of a sudden, a large amount of tension that had been building up for so long was lifted off her shoulders.

She found the source.

“Oh, Marinette,” the kwami soothed. “Liking Chat Noir wouldn’t mean you don’t love Adrien. Sometimes the heart works in ways we just can’t control. But you have to, at least, consider the possibility.”

“The possibility?!” Marinette repeated. “I-I can’t… I mean, I-I shouldn’t…”

But the words died in her mouth. Was it possible? Could she really like her partner in crime-fighting? As more than a friend?

Yet, when her heart started to accelerate, her thoughts were interrupted, as Tikki yelped and hid in the pink purse.

“Hey, Marinette,” a shadow in front of her spoke.

The designer looked up, to find one of the blond boys complicating her life.

“H-hey,” she stammered.

“Thanks!” Adrien waved at Mr. Dupain, as he exited the bakery to find Marinette.

He had been so tempted to vault up to her room and hold her as tightly as he could, but, at the moment, he couldn’t help but feel watched as Chat Noir. So, his secret identity would have to do. And now more so, since she wasn’t in the privacy of her room.

“She’s probably fine,” Plagg insisted, poking out of the boy’s over-shirt. “Can’t we go somewhere more interesting? Like a cheese store?”

“She’s not fine,” Adrien insisted. “I could tell. There was something wrong, but she couldn’t tell me in such a public place.”

“Are you sure you’re not just making excuses to see her?”

“I’m telling ya, she’s upset. And whether I’m Adrien or Chat Noir, I’m not gonna—”

But Adrien froze as he reached the park. Plagg asked several times what was wrong, but the boy didn’t listen, as his eyes were focused on a bench on the other side of the park:

Marinette and Félix were close. Too close, if anyone asked him.

“Oh, hey, it’s the weirdo,” the kwami commented.

The words were enough for a growl to escape Adrien’s lips. As quickly as he could, he snuck from tree to tree, trying to get as close as possible without been seen.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Plagg whispered when Adrien got to the nearest tree possible.

“What is he doing here?” he snarled under his breath.

“Talking?” Plagg suggested. Adrien ignored him, and instead tried to listen to the conversation.

“You think so?” Marinette was asking Félix.

“Well, if it were me saying it, I’d definitely only say it for the cameras,” Félix responded to whatever Marinette had been questioning. “You’re one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. Smart, kind… beautiful.”

Marinette shifted, looking away, her cheeks turning pink.

Meanwhile, something stirred within Adrien.

“What is he doing?!” Adrien hissed. Plagg called him several times, but the boy continued ignoring him.

“All descriptions befitting of a Princess,” Félix added, leaning closer to the girl in pig-tails. Who was, in turn, turning a darker shade of red.

“You’re just saying that,” she giggled, using the tip of her index finger to push him away, but only slightly.

Something awoke inside Adrien.

“Uh oh,” Plagg let out. On cue, Adrien grabbed the little god and brought him close to his face.

“I’m gonna need one serious favor right now,” he said, darkly.

“I am not transforming you because you can’t control your jealousy.”

“I’m not jealous!” Adrien denied. “There’s some guy there who Marinette thinks is me. This is about saving a friend!”

“Bull—”

“Plagg, transform me!”

The little cat being was rudely dragged into the miraculous ring, and for the second time that day, Adrien was Chat Noir. The second his transformation finished, he vaulted up the tree and used his trusty staff to jump high enough to land him right in front of Marinette and the imposter. The moment the two jumped, startled, Chat Noir uttered three words:

“Hello there, Princess.”

#Caged ML #ML fanfic #Marichat #their-destinys-writer #Miraculous Ladybug #Marinette #Adrien #Ladybug #Chat Noir #ao3 #ffnet #wattpad #Chapter 11 #Post

[elliotthezubat]

DEATH CITY DAYS CHAPTER 36

more of dem vampire feels

Kid: *holding wrapped boxes* "I think I have what I needed to pick up today...How about you?" liz: yep. should be everything. Patty: *pissed* "..." stocking: its ok.. ^^; Patty: "Santa's not going to give me one thing I asked for...And his beard was fake, too." liz: what is that? Patty: "??? Um...It's a secret..." liz: ah. Patty: -\\\\\- Kid: *smiles* "I can't wait for Christmas~" stocking: yeah. Kid: "...Oh...Um, Stocking? Is your father...still going to send fruitcake?" stocking: yeah. Kid: "..." *slight forced smile* "Great." stocking: i bet we could kill an evil human with it. Kid: "...Truly, the most powerful weapon..." *small laugh* "Sorry." liz:...patti...PATTI NO! -elsewhere- Anya: *packing* ao: *staaaare* Anya: *not even turning around to look* -___- "What is it, Ao?" ao: visiting family? Anya: "Yes. And what will you be doing during the break?" ao: the same. tending to the family shrine. Anya: "They needed extra hands?" ao: perhaps....maybe its just homesickness... Anya: "...Yes, that is understandable..." *struggling to shut her suitcase* ao: could i be of assistance? Anya: "...I suppose." Anya: "I just can't get it to shut..." -elsewhere- Crona: *eating a gingerbread cookie* mami: *has the radio on as she is making dinner* Crona: *smiles* "The gingerbread is very good--not too sweet, not too spicy." mami: *she smiles* Crona: "...May I help with dinner?" mami: of course. Crona: *smiles* "O-Okay...What should I do first?" -elsewhere- naho: so cold oooout... Shamrock: "Then you should have bundled up." *adjusts his scarf* naho: XP Mr. Tsubaki: *removes his jacket, drapes it onto Naho's shoulders* "Here you go~" naho: thanks. ^^ Shamrock: D: Mr. Tsubaki: *POOFs into fox form, leaps into Naho's arms* naho: ^^ so fwuffy~ Mr. Tsubaki: "Why, thank you--I make sure my shampoo and regimental brushing keeps my fur in this form so soft~" Shamrock: Q~Q naho: =w= ~<3 Mr. Tsubaki: "...So, Naho, how are things at the school? I had some recommended courses for you to take..." naho: they're doing good. Mr. Tsubaki: "First, for the dance ahead of us, I want you to take some dance classes. And second, I think you would benefit from a course in audio-visual technologies." naho: *writing down notes* Mr. Tsubaki: *smirk* "It may help you with those videos you keep recording..." naho: OwO;;;;; Shamrock: D: "Wh-What?!!!" Mr. Tsubaki: "Fu-fu-fu-fu~" naho: >3>;; Mr. Tsubaki: "You are so transparent, Naho..." *nuzzles against her* "Such a troublesome peer..." naho: OwO;;;;;;;;;;;; eh? sakuya: hey lila, want to go for a walk? *drags him off* lilac: e-eh?? Mr. Tsubaki: "Why do you record me when I am disrobing?" naho: >3>;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;; lavender: have you even looked in her journals? naho: LAV!! >/////////< Mr. Tsubaki: "...Well, I guess Naho is getting doujinshi for Christmas..." naho: thank you! OwO belkia: *looking at the journals* dayum. Shamrock: "???" *looks over belkia’s shoulder...and his jaw drops* -TOO LEWD TO SHOW- lavender: nice. Higan: "Hmmm...The syntax is poor, but the descriptions are quite vivid...May we borrow these ideas?" Shamrock: D: D: D: D: "...I need something to wipe these memories from my mind..." -elsewhere- Black Star: "999...1000! Okay, I'm done..." *covered in sweat from his push-ups* "Need the bathroom? I was thinking of taking a bath." tsubaki: im good. *reading under the kotatsu* Black Star: "...Alright. Keeping warm? Got some good reading?" *takes off his sweat-covered shirt* tsubaki: yeah....very good.....*staring* Black Star: "... ??? Something wrong?" *he's now just in boxers* tsubaki: >////////////> Black Star: *concerned voice* "...Um...Maybe you should get out of the kotatsu for a bit. You look hot." tsubaki: im ok! Black Star: "Okay, okay, sheesh! Just checking...Maybe you need a bath, too." -elsewhere- Arthur: *holds up empty plate* "Seconds, please!" mrs kenshimono: you sure worked up an appetite today, huh? Arthur: -\\\\- "Your cooking is great..." ("Especially after some less-than-stellar brigade meals.") Hiro: "Yes, thank you! How is your meal, Eternal Feather?" ef: it's delicious, thank you ^^ Arthur: "Dessert should be tasty, too. Always really good ones here..." *looks at his phone* "..." hime: *she nods* dad got cookie making supplies today, so that should be fun. Hiro: "??? Arthur? Put your phone away--we're still having dinner." Arthur: *sighs* "Yeah, yeah..." -elsewhere- Yumi: *hugs Lord Death from behind* lord death: ^////^ Yumi: *kiss on the cheek* "All set with the children's gifts?" lord death: mmhmm! Yumi: "Good...because I finished wrapping your gifts...most of them." lord death: oh~? Stein: *yawn* aya: *she hands him a pillow* Stein: "Thanks..." *puts it under his head, lies down...* LK: -elsewhere- belkia: duuuude im gonna backflip right offa dis bitch bar, lol! Mr. Tsubaki: "N-Now thassssss...That's stupid..." belkia: imma do it for the vine! Shamrock: "Oh, let him jump." *downs another shot* "Woo..." sakuya: -_-; *is designated driver* Higan: *holds up phone* "Ssssss'okay...I got it...I'm recording...and...go!" belkia: OKAY HERE I GOOOO! *slam* oooow...im good! im immertal like eye of the tiger haha! Shamrock: "...You're eye is dangling out of its socket, 'tiger'..." Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *LOUD LAUGHTER* "...I'm so lonely..." belkia: oh shit. someone get me water? i need to wash the dirt off! Higan: *covers his mouth, starts running for the bathroom* Shamrock: "...Waiter! We need water! Our colleague has his eye out of his head!" sakuya: -_-; waitress: *SCREAMS* Mr. Tsubaki: *covers his ears* "Not so loud...Some of us have sensitive hearing..." Shamrock: "H-Hang on...I think I can put the eye back in..." otogiri: -_-; maybe we should go now. Higan: *collapsed on the men's room floor* "Ugh...Just like junior high school..." Mr. Tsubaki: "N-Nah-uh! We can't go yet! No one has taken their shirt off yet..." Shamrock: "Is it back in yet?" Mr. Tsubaki: "...That's what she said!" *loud laughter* -gun shots are heard as a black vehicle drives past being chased by a white van with the C3 logo on it- gil: DRIVE MAN! FUCKIN DRIVE! ray: DRIVING AS FAST AS IT CAN GO! Mr. Tsubaki: "...The fuck?!" Shamrock: ._. "...Shouldn't a secret organization not have its name on the side of the vehicle?" sakuya: oh fuck- guys, we need to bail! yumikage: DAMMIT TSURUGI LET ME OR JUN DRIVE! Mr. Tsubaki: "W-Wait! Where's Higan?" Shamrock: -_-;;;; sakuya: i'll get him, head out the back! Mr. Tsubaki: *picks up Belkia* "Right! Shamrock, get my credit card!" *runs off* Shamrock: "..." *looks at waitress* "...Could we get his credit card back, please?" waitress: here you go sir. o-o; Shamrock: *nods* "Thank you." *hands her $200* "Your tip. Good night." *runs after Mr. Tsubaki* -on the road- yumikage: OI! WRATH AND SUBCLASS BASTARDS! THAT IS A STOLEN VEHICLE! PULL THE FUCK OVER! gil: SCREW YOU <SCUM SUCKERS> THEY WERE GONNA SCRAP THIS BEAUTY! LIKE HELL WE WERE GONNA LET THEM DO THAT! Jun: -_-;;;; "Can't this vehicle go any more quickly?" yumikage: WE'RE DOING 79! Jun: *sigh* "Which weapons are in here...?" *tosses random items in the van...* the mother: gil, was the car really worth it? -_-; gil: uh, DOI! this is a classic 1920s cadillac! and in mint condition! Tsurugi: "Jeez, you are all so petulant about this! Just drive faster! How hard is that?! Do I have to take the wheel?!!" Ray: "...I have to agree with Gil: these are indeed <scum suckers>." yumikage: YOU CANT EVEN DRIVE! Tsurugi: "I CAN DO ANYTHING I SET MY MIND TO!" Jun: -____- "Stop. Yelling." gil: *drifts into a parking garage, hoping to lose them* -a female with green hair yawns in the back of the vehicle- ???: eh? whats going on? Ray: "Hello..." gil: !! UNA! my sweet lovely darling! did i startle you?! una: oh, hey gil. ^^ Ray: "Um...Gil? The road? Driving?" gil: <OH SHIT RIGHT!> phew, that was close. una: ^^; Ray: "...So, sleep well?" una: zzzzz.... the mother: and out she goes again. Ray: -_-;;; "No kidding...So, any idea how to avoid those weirdos?" the mother: seems we're going to have to lay low somewhere. last i heard, old child was in a hot springs someplace, all of love was in alisuin mansion, and doubt doubt was awol. Ray: *sigh* "Great...Where you want to go, then?" the mother: old child and all of love are our best options currently. una: a hot spring sounds lovely. gil: HOT SPRINGS IT IS! which one? -elsewhere- Benimaru: "Zzz..." kirei: how is he? Konro: "Today took a lot out of him. He will need his sleep." kirei:...i'll be returning to the shrine. rest well. Benimaru: "Zzz..." Konro: *smiles, nods* -early morning- Takehisa: *already with a cup of coffee, looking at the sunrise* misora: !!! *sneaks back into the firefly* Takehisa: *doesn't notice...* ("A lot quieter with people on break...") misora:..... -elsewhere- Hugh: -_-;;;;; the mother: and that's what all happened. misono: then that means 7 out of 8 servamps are in death city... Lily: "Quite a family reunion..." Hugh: -____- "Why are you staying here?" the mother: like i said, we're on the lam because SOMEONE...stole an antique car. gil: QwQ; Lily: "...That's rather...avaricious. Fu-fu-fu~" the mother: speaking of which, you said lawless was in death city as well? mahiru: yeah...its been...difficult to work with him, to say the least *sweatdrop* Hugh: "His temper has evened out--but his sense of humor is as awful as ever." the mother: at least he is in good spirits....after.....*she shakes her head* nevermind, it's none of my business. Hugh: "..." Lily: *nods* "Yes...Well...Will you be needing anything? We will be running errands..." the mother: just a roof over our heads until C3 gets off our backs. uzuki: scary... the mother: im not mad, this is just how my face looks.....does anyone want to hear any of my farming stories? -elsewhere- Kid: *yawns, hugs Stocking in bed* stocking: mmmm~ Kid: "Morning, Cupcake..." *smooch* stocking: hehe~<3 Kid: "Sleep well?" stocking: yeah. Kid: *nods* "Same..." *holds her hand* "Christmas break starts today..." stocking: yeah, christmas break. *kiss* im not gonna leave you, ok? Kid: "..." *hugs her* "Thank you...Could we...meet your parents, though?" stocking: sure. -elsewhere- otogiri: that was too risky last night...... belkia: on the plus side, my eye's back to normal! Mr. Tsubaki: *groaning, sipping black coffee* "Yes, please, lecture us--that's what my hangover needs, Otogiri..." Shamrock: -_-;;; "Lucky you..." Higan: *passed out on the floor* saku:..... <pitiful> lavender: so what's the next move? Mr. Tsubaki: *stands up too quickly* "Prepare for the dance~! ..." *collapses* "Oh, my head..." otogiri: how bothersome. -_-; Higan: *talking in his sleep* "Mmmm...I came to class naked again...I guess I'm stuck as the nude model...Get me from all angles." sakuya: *hurk* naho: *disgusted face* that's gross old man. Shamrock: "He could not control his drinking or smoking. It is amazing he is able to speak..." Mr. Tsubaki: *lying on the couch* "How will I dance like this?" saku: ....... -elsewhere- Black Star: *snoring* tsubaki: *making breakfast* *phone rings* hmm? Black Star: *tosses over in bed, putting the pillow over his head to block out the phone* tsubaki: yes? who is it? Lily: "Tsubaki, sweetie! It's me, Lily! How are you?" tsubaki: doing good. Lily: "Excellent! Um...Maybe sit down, because I have some major news: some new vampire allies are in town!" tsubaki: thats great! Lily: "Now, this new vampire who arrived may seem...um...angry. She looks angry. Like, all the time. So...Yeah." tsubaki: noted. Lily: "How are you and Black Star doing, sweetie?" tsubaki: doing well. -elsewhere- PlushFix: *asleep, clutching the TV remote* -at the hot spring- misono: zzzzz....*yawn* morning already...? Hugh: *poke poke* "Why are you still sleeping here?" misono: *mumbling* -lily's phone rings- Lily: "Bonjour~" dodo: hey, its dodo, big news; mr alisuin going to be coming back to death city soon for the holidays. Lily: o_o "Oh...I should let Misono know then..." dodo: yeah. also, when he gets back, he wants to discuss something with misono... Lily: "...Any hint of what they'll discuss?" dodo: all i got was that it's urgent. Lily: "Yes...I will let Misono know. Thank you." dodo: and you should meet these two new maids, they are hella sexy!- Lily: "...Um...Okay?" -SLAP on the other side- ???: ignore him, he's an idiot. Lily: o____o; "Um...To whom am I speaking?" ???: its me, mitsuki? we live in the same estate? -_-; Lily: "Oh! ...You sound different on the phone..." -elsewhere- belkia: we got our eyes on the inside, and soon its gonna be showtime!! hehehehehe~ Shamrock: "Yes...If only some of us kept their eyes in their heads..." Mr. Tsubaki: *practicing his dance steps with his Tsubaki plushie* "One two three...One two three..." sakuya: ....... belkia: im just glad i got those maid costumes prior!....for reasons >w>; Shamrock: *unrolls a map of the DWMA...* "Yes, we are all so pleased that you have maid outfits..." *eyeroll* belkia: with lav and girioto handling the alisuin place, _we_ will crash the dance! hell yeah! Higan: -\\\\\\- "Let's save the outfit...for some modeling for my next painting...and sculpture..." sakuya: *muttering* next porno film. Shamrock: -_- "Don't give him ideas..." Mr. Tsubaki: -_-;;;; "So disgusting, fascinating about people in maid outfits...Now, a kimono..." *fantasizes about Tsubaki* saku: ........................ Shamrock: *studying Saku* "Um..." saku: what? Shamrock: "N-Nothing!" saku:.... -elsewhere- Relan: *adjusting his tie...* shinra: ok. *inhales* im ready. Relan: *nods...knocks* mrs koizumi: relan honey, welcome home! *she hugs him* this must be shinra, what a pleasure to meet you~ ^^ Relan: o\\\\\o "H-Hi..." shinra: HELLO MRS KOIZUMI! *nervous smile* mrs koizumi: do come in sweeties. shinra: (thinking: ok, so far so good) Relan: *inching into the room* "W-Where is...um...?" mrs koizumi: *she looks at him* papa is upstairs sleeping. *she looks at shinra* my hubby works very hard and needs his rest. please dont disturb him~ -her tone is almost forced- Relan: o________o;;;;;;;; "Oh..." shinra: ok then...*looks at relan* .... mrs koizumi: do you boys need anything~? Relan: "W-W-W-W-W-Water?" shinra: same. mrs koizumi: coming right up~ *she goes to get some* shinra:..... Relan: ._. *looks at Shinra* shinra: *looks at him like 'do you want me to help you?'* Relan: *whispers* "Mother is...insistent, about things." shinra: *nods and looks upstairs* (thinking: the atmosphere here just got really foreboding....) Relan: *whispering* "Whatever she says, just nod..." shinra: ok.... Relan: "...Be kind to Father." -elsewhere- Benimaru: *sipping tea, slowly* kabuki: did you sleep ok last night? Benimaru: *shakes his head 'no'* "Another one..." kabuki:........ Benimaru: "...How are preparations for the memorial?" kabuki: just about finished... Benimaru: *nods* "I appreciate your work on this, especially during this break..." -elsewhere- Meme: *pokes Mio's arm* mio: *snert* nyeh? *yaaawn* Meme: "We're going to land soon. Better get your seat belt back on." mio: ah, right. Meme: "..." *holds her hand* "Hey..." mio: *blush* ?? Meme: "You okay with this?" mio: yeah. Meme: *smiles* "Me too." Meme: "Thanks for letting me come along." mio: *she smiles a bit* Meme: "...Anything I should know before we get to your family's?" mio: i have pretty much all the consoles. as for my parents and brother, they're pretty chill for the most part. Meme: *giggles* "Well, glad to hear that about the game systems...Um...Have you...I mean, what does your family know about me?" mio: ./////. w-what i've told them, basically.... Meme: -\\\\- "Ha ha..." *pats Mio's hand* "Thanks..." -elsewhere- Kuro: *playing with a ball* sayaka: hehe, how cute~ mahiru: ^^; Kuro: -_-; "This is simply for hand-eye coordination, nothing more..." mahiru:.....misono didnt come back today..... madoka: maybe he's sick? Kuro: "?!!" sayaka: maybe we could check on him? Kuro: "...Yes. Mahiru, we should go..." Kuro: "What do you know about Misono's household?" mahiru: it's a big mansion, we were there, remember? Kuro: "But who else lives there...?" -someone is knocking at the door- sayaka: hmm? julie: *faints as the door is open* nnnh.... the mother: !!! get her inside, now! Kuro: "!!!" *helps to support her, walk her inside...* the mother: is she nuts? doesnt she realize how drastically a subclass' stamina drops in direct sunlight? it could have easily killed her... Kuro: "Then she'll bring an umbrella next time...Hey, you? Can you hear me?" julie: *breathing, but needs to recharge* mahiru: she's...one of lily's subclass....why would she come here? Kuro: "...Because Lily is in trouble?" julie: *waking up* mi...sono...trouble.... Kuro: "!!! Where? The mansion?" julie: misono...he's trapped. his father wont let him leave. Kuro: "...How do we get into the mansion?" sayaka: we can take my scooter! i think i remember the address! Kuro: *hops onto Sayaka's head* "Okay...Someone carry me there..." sayaka: there's room in my backpack! -and so- sayaka: there it is. julie: is it safe? mahiru: i think so. Kuro: *looking around to see who is at the mansion...* dodo: julie! there you are. you know its dangerous to go alone. sayaka: hey mr chauffeur guy! mahiru: is misono in? dodo: yeah, but he kinda got sick all the sudden, cant let anyone in, could be contagious. mahiru: .... Kuro: "...Sounds suspicious..." sayaka: i have to give him something. *pulls out a bag of caramels* i was gonna save them for later, but i think he'd like this as a token of kindness! ^^ Kuro: Q~Q "...May I have one?" dodo: ...sorry, boss' orders. now...wait, did i leave the back gate locked? sayaka: *NYOOM* mahiru: SAYAKA WAIT UP! D: Kuro: *holding on for dear life* o___O -inside- sayaka: MISONOOOOO- Mikado: "???" sayaka: oof! oh my gosh im so sorry! mahiru: *pant pant* jeez, you run fast.... mitsuki: who are you two? why are you here? dodo: sorry, they kinda slipped in. ^^; mitsuki: -_-#; honestly dodo.... -some of the subclass kids surround them- child: mahimahi! child 2: sawaka! Kuro: "...What?" child 3: kitty! hehe~ Mikado: "...Who are you all? And did that cat just talk?" Kuro: "...Feed me treats. Now." mahiru: um, i can explain- Mikado: *stares intently at Mahiru* "...Are you here for my child, Misono?" *glares* mahiru: um... sayaka: we're friends of his! OwO;; -elsewhere- Patty: *appears behind Liz* "...TICKLE ATTACK!!!" liz: GAH! HAHAHA STOP! XD Patty: *tackle onto the couch* "Tickle tickle tickle!!!" stocking: they seem to be in a good mood. Kid: *smiles* "A lot of changes..." stocking: *she nods* Patty: "SIS! That tickles! Ha ha ha ha!" Kid: *holds Stocking's hand* "We're...all much older now." stocking: yeah... hard to believe.... Patty: *taps Stocking's arm* "I'm tagging out! Your turn to do the tickle attack--ON KIDDO!" Kid: o__o -elsewhere- Shotaro: *stringing popcorn chains for the Christmas tree* -elsewhere- metsu: thank you for your patronage...*once the customers exit, she closes up shop* Jeje: "..." Faustus: *humming* metsu: *she looks upstairs, to where mikuni's room is*....he's been awfully quiet. Jeje: "Hmm...Has Misono not contacted him?" metsu: i dont believe so....from what i recall, doesnt misono despise him? Jeje: *nods* "...Someone should talk with him." Faustus: "...Don't look at me. I'm very busy." *holds up a shrunken head* "Say hello to my new friend, Alphonse!" metsu: ......well, when mikuni does come out of his room, he has a telegram from dr shuuhei... -elsewhere- Hibana: *knees wobbling* >_< "How does anyone stay on these skiis?!" -elsewhere- akane: i still dont see how fighting ghost thingies will help anyone... mitsuba: they're called 'jinn' dummy...right mr jun? Jun: *nods* "Yeah, yeah, jinn...And we are here to contain them." *stares at Akane* "That's how they help people." akane: .... shinoa: while we may not be 'eves', per say, but the weapons we were given might help make them easier to shake off people. akane: then what? yumikage: we contain them with these bad boys! *shows off jinn vaccum* mitsuba: what is this, ghost busters?! Jun: "Agreed on the weapons. But you'll need more practice with them, not just on the scene but here." *holds up a jar that says 'Fake Jinn'* "Hence this little exercise..." akane: *sword drawn* alright, its takedown time! -elsewhere- sayaka: thanks for the meal~ *nom nom nom* mahiru: misono isnt joining us for dinner? Mikado: "...Misono is busy. Recovering." sayaka: so you're misono and mikuni's dad? children: mikuni?............who is that? sayaka: O-O;;;;; Kuro: *nom nomming on candy* "Hmm?" Mikado: "...'Mikuni'?" sayaka:....uh- yamame: there is no one by that name who lives here. the only servamp living here is snow lily...misono is the only son. mahiru: ??? (thinking: they really dont know who mikuni is? whats going on?) Lily: *overhearing from the shadows...* Kuro: "..." *swallows another cookie* sayaka:....excuse me! nature calls! *exits*........*notices misono outside the window and makes her way to the door* misono:......... sayaka: hey misono! misono: !!! good god miki, dont sneak up on me like that! sayaka: we came to bail you out! misono:...what? sayaka: mahiru and i are here and we're gonna help you escape! misono: why are you even doing that? you're going to get in serious trouble with my father. sayaka: why? its because thats what friends do for each other. they look out for each other.....caramel? misono:......*takes some and puts them in his pocket* thanks....i think.... sayaka: hehe, now come on, lets blow this fancy popcicle stand! misono:............... \misono please....you're the only family i have left\ misono: im sorry. but i cant.....my father...im his only family. he'd worry- sayaka: thats not true, what about your brother mikuni?....come to think of it, why does no one here know who he is? its weird. misono: ...i- dodo: there you are! jeez your fast....come on, time for you to head home. sayaka: but i- mitsuki: *drags her off* sayaka: call you tomorrow! misono:....... -elsewhere- sayaka: that could have gone better... Q.Q; mahiru: at least it was something. Kuro: -w- *tummy full of sweets* mahiru: so what now? sayaka: all we do now is wait.... -elsewhere- misono: the backdoor key....it should be in mikuni's room....its such a mess here....what is it they...dont...want me....to.......*he passes out* Lily: *catches Misono* "...Time for you to rest... Misono....I hope you can forgive me for doing this....” -two maids watch from a distance- maid 1:....*she smirks* maid 2:....how bothersome. -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *sips his tea...smirks* belkia: any updates? Mr. Tsubaki: "Quite. Our informant has kept a close eye..." -phone buzzes- Mr. Tsubaki: "???" lavender: [seems lust is hiding something from the alisuin kid. may prove useful 2 our cause >:) ] lavender: [also turns out limo driver boy has a thing for big boobs. also useful info for me 2 use 2 my advantage <3 >8) ] otogiri: [ignore that last comment. -_-; ] Mr. Tsubaki: [too late -_-; keep us updated] otogiri: [understood] Mr. Tsubaki: "...Belkia? I think I'll take a poll online." belkia: neat! for what? Mr. Tsubaki: "Which are better: maids outfits or kimonos?" belkia: maid for the win! sakuya: are you kidding me? -_-# saku: <to each their own> Higan: "NURSE OUTFITS NURSE OUTFITS NURSEOUTFITS--" *foaming at the mouth* Shamrock: -_-;;;;; lilac:.....im confused. o-o; ame: ?????? naho: i'll go for anything that's cute, to be honest. Mr. Tsubaki: *drooling* "My camellia..." sakuya: so shameless.... -_-; Mr. Tsubaki: *wipes the drool* "Now, then...Let's review the best ways for infiltrating the Academy..." -elsewhere- Emine: *dressed as an elf* "...I hate you all." lin: ^^ Shotaro: *also in an elf outfit* "But it helps the kids--and Santa! You don't want to disappoint Santa, do you?" Emine: "...Do you really want to imagine what I want to do to Santa?" mana: *glare* Emine: "!!!" *hides behind Lin* "That snow-monster looks upset..." -3 days later- Lily: "Hello, Misono..." misono: ??? *yawns* lily? how long was i out? *rubbing his eyes* Lily: "...You must be hungry. Let me bring you something~" misono: that didnt answer my question, but ok..... -misono got up and went to the dining hall- maid: morning young master~ ^^ maid 2: up early i see. misono: morning. -the two maids depart, looking back for a moment, with the first maid smirking slightly- Mikado: *seated at the table* misono: ...good morning father, how was england? Mikado: *shiny eyes* "Misono! Cheerio, good chap! Come here--" *holds out his arms for a hug* misono: oh uh *hugged* o-o; mitsuki: you were more excited when he got back, so much so that you passed out. dodo: not as excited as you and your idol sho- mitsuki: YOU JUST KEEP QUIET! >////< Mikado: *nods* TWT "Papa missed you!" -the day goes on as normal, perhaps a bit too normally- -the phone rings- misono: damn, how do i answer this thing? Lily: "!!! M-Maybe I should answer..." misono: seems like a good option. Lily: *answers* "Hello?" sayaka: *on the other end* heyo~ how's it going~? Lily: *answers* "Hello?" Lily: "Oh! Hello! How are you?" sayaka: great. is misono there? Lily: .w.;;;; "...No?" misono: im right here! T-T; sayaka: thats a bummer, we agreed to talk a few days ago, but he didnt pick up. well, let him know to call us back when he can, ok? Lily: .w.;;;;;;;;; "R-Right! Of course! Thank you! Toodles!" misono: what was that just now? Lily: "Um...Telemarketer?" misono:..... -later that evening- misono: *gets into bed....but he feels something soft in his pockets* ?!?! what the- *he pulls it out* ....caramel?....!! *remembering sayaka offering some to him* !!! what? *he steps out into the hall and catches a glimpse of lily* lily? *he follows* otogiri:.... "Lily": "..." misono: lily wait! -he follows till he loses track of him, but ends up at the door of the tea room- ???: he's going to find out eventually... misono: *listening* .... (thinking: find out?) ???: "There has to be a way...Perhaps I could..." misono: *he peeks inside* Lily: "...change them again." misono: !!! *he feels like his heart dropped into his stomach* (thinking: change what again?!) otogiri: young master? you're up rather late. misono: !!!! *he stumbles into the room* mitsuki: m-misono! lavender:... Lily: "...Oh no...Misono...I..." misono: whats...whats going on? what did you talk about changin-.....the caramels......*he pulls them out of his pocket* sayaka....she was here a few days ago, wasnt she?? Lily: "Misono...I'm sorry. Can we just...sit down and talk?" misono: then i went to get the key when-.....what is it you're trying to hide from me?! Lily: "..." *tries to hug Misono* Lily: "I'm sorry..." misono: *backing away* if you wont answer me...ill just find the answer on my own! *he storms to mikuni's room* lavender:.... mitsuki: miso- *slammed into the wall by otogiri's strings* grk- Lily: "?!!!" *looks around for the antagonist...* otogiri: *sends the doll to attack lily* seems the bond is weakening....how bothersome....well....bothersome for you. dodo: what?! mitsuki: there was a mole?! otogiri: *she removes her wig* remember me...all of love? from the hotel? dodo:.... .///.; mitsuki: DODO! D:< Lily: "!!! Everyone, get back! I'll--" otogiri: you'll what? let misono learn the truth of what you're hiding from him? Lily: "..." *glares* "Ma'am...I cannot let this attack on anyone in this household stand." *battle pose* "Leave, while you still can." dodo: we'll handle her! go get misono! yamame: *pin sword in hand* Lily: "Right!" *chases after Misono* dodo: *pulls out gun* alright, lets dance. lavender: say, i know this is out of nowhere, but...you're kinda cute~ dodo: um... .///. mitsuki: DODO! D:< lavender: let me ask....you have a thing for big breasts, dont you~? <3 *pressing herself against him* dodo: O/////O mitsuki: DODO!! D8< lavender: thought so~ *kisses him below the ear* dodo: O//////O ...!!! i...i cant move?! lavender: *takes the gun* i'll be taking this thanks~ *she chases after lily* mitsuki: WHEN I GET OUT OF HERE IM KILLING YOU UNTIL YOU DIE!!! Lily: ("Where is he?") misono: *running to where mikuni's room was* Lily: "!!! Misono, stop!" misono: stay away from me! .....i always hated mikuni.....but i dont know why.....why are you manipulating my own memories? what is it that you dont want me to know?! Lily: "Misono...I can't have you hating...hating..." misono: JUST TELL ME THE TRUTH ALREADY! if you're so insistent....then....how can i even trust you?! Lily: "...I don't want you to hate m--" -BANG- misono: !!! lavender: *smirks* -shatter- Lily: "..." *bleeds from his mouth...feelings Jinn release from the wound...* "M-Mi-Misono...G-Get back..." *collapses to his knees, crying* misono: !!! LILY!!! -at the dance- Kid: *glaring at one decoration* "...This snowflake is off..." tsubaki: ^^; stocking: want to dance? Kid: *instant smile* "Of course~" Black Star: -\\\\- tsubaki:....you've been practicing... stocking: hehe~<3 Black Star: "Y-Yeah...It's kinda like fighting in battle. Only without punching...You dance great, Tsubaki." Kid: *smiles at Stocking* tsubaki: ^^ Patty: *holds up a gingerbread man to Takeru* takeru:...*nom* t-thank you ^^ belkia: *staring from across the room* i wanna punch that guy so muuuch! >n< Mr. Tsubaki: *frowning* "No kidding." Shamrock: x_-; "Calm yourselves...Please." Patty: "Hee hee hee...You got a crumb..." *kisses his cheek* lilac: .......*looking around, awkwardly* takeru: >/////////< Crona: "H-Hi, Lilac..." lilac: !!! oh...h-h-hi! mami: glad to see you're ok. *she smiles* lilac: t-thank you! Crona: "...Enjoying the dance?" lilac: y-yeah....d-dad decided to chaperone... Crona: *looks at Shamrock* "...He looks upset." lilac: y-yeah.... sakuya: *dancing* Jacqueline: *watching Sakuya* "Hmm...He isn't dancing with anyone?" kim: doesnt look like it, neither are those new kids..... mitsuba: this is so dumb. -_-; yumikage: its no picnic for us either, princess. mitsuba: why you- shinoa: oh my. a little lovers spat i see? mitsuba + yumikage: HELL NO! Jun: "Be quiet, and have some cake..." akane: she's way too chill....freaking rich kids, am i right? Jacqueline: "...I am familiar with people concerned with money..." akane: and you are? Jacqueline: "Jacqueline O'Lantern Dupré." kim: you can call me Kim. you new here? akane:....yeah. names Akane Hyakuya. the blonde girl is Mitsuba, and the purple haired girl is Shinoa. we're transfer students. Jacqueline: "Well, a party is certainly a good way to be introduced to your new classmates." akane: i guess so.... so the DWMA really is a school of the elites, huh? Jacqueline: "Well...It does attract some of the most powerful meisters, weapons, warriors..." akane: ah... Jacqueline: "Are you a weapon?" akane: not really.....i-....its complicated. tsubaki: *goes out to get some fresh air* Jacqueline: "..." *nods* "It's okay..." *smiles* "The Academy is supposed to be welcoming to all students..." kim: yeah, we get new people every day. Jacqueline: "You can always find activities here..." Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *stands back from her...* tsubaki:.........*a bit tense* (thinking: something.....doesnt feel right....) Mr. Tsubaki: *opens his mouth...* Mr. Tsubaki: "Hello." tsubaki: !!! *she turns to face him*.....why are you here? Mr. Tsubaki: *small, innocent smile* "Am I not invited?" tsubaki:.... -mr tsubaki's phone rings- Mr. Tsubaki: -_-; "Sorry..." *looks at the phone* otogiri: all of love has been taken out. Mr. Tsubaki: "...Thank you. What comes next, then?" -noises are heard on the other end- lavender: kyan~<3 mahiru: OHMYGODIMSORRY! Mr. Tsubaki: -____- "...What is going on?" otogiri:.... -_-; mahiru shirota arrived. do you wish to speak with him? Mr. Tsubaki: "Oh! Yes, very much so~" mahiru: *takes the phone* hello? Mr. Tsubaki: "Hello, there! How are you~?" mahiru: what's going on?! what did you do to lily? why is there jinn- Mr. Tsubaki: "Well, when a vampire is injured, all that jinn just floats on up out of them. Perhaps it has something to do with all those misdeeds us naughty sins are up to..." tsubaki: ?!?! mahiru: what?! Mr. Tsubaki: "Best not get too close to it...But maybe you should get used to seeing it..." tsubaki: w-what's going on?? mahiru: what? Mr. Tsubaki: "Are you familiar with C3? Surprising people. Very interesting. But they are such a nuisance. So I thought, 'Why not spread some of that jinn around?' How do you think the world would look, with that darkness hanging over them?" tsubaki: !!!!!! mahiru: !!!!! Mr. Tsubaki: *smirks...until he sees Tsubaki staring at him...he frowns, seriously, as if he is talking to both Mahiru and her...* Mr. Tsubaki: "...Do you know what it is like, to feel melancholia hanging over you?" tsubaki: ........ mahiru: *he runs for lily* otogiri:.....we should go now. lavender: good call... *she and otogiri exit* Lily: *crying, on the floor, wreathing* "Stay back..." Mr. Tsubaki: "..." tsubaki:.....tsubaki.....what did you do....? Mr. Tsubaki: "..._I_ did nothing...technically." -back at the mansion- mahiru: lily! snap out of it! misono: ....... Lily: *crying* "M-Misono..." misono: LILY! *he runs over to him* mahiru: MISONO NO! Lily: "..." *looks up, with pure animalistic rage, as he screams at Misono, leaping at him* misono: !!!!! *shuts his eyes tightly* Lily: *slashes at Misono, as if pulling Misono towards him...and into him...* misono: *he opens his eyes*.... ???? where.....am i? ???: "...You are not supposed to be here~" misono: ??? *A small child emerges from the shadows...Easter eggs are around them* misono: are you...part of lily? Child!Lily: *nods* "Uh huh! I never thought I'd see you in here, Misono!" misono: whats going on? (thinking: is this like what mahiru....) Child!Lily: "...I got hurt. Badly. And I...I...did something wrong, didn't I?" misono:......the only one to blame here is me....its my own arrogance that got you hurt....i just...wanted to know the truth... Child!Lily: "...You should not. The truth...will change things." misono: what do you mean? Child!Lily: "...I can't...You'll hate me...you'll hate yourself." misono:....even then, i just want closure. cant you at least let me have that? being happy all the time....its not realistic. we have bad days too... Child!Lily: "Misono...How can you have life...without love in it? Please...Don't..." misono: i'll be ok...i promise. Child!Lily: "But...What if I'm not there to be with you?" *The Easter Eggs start shattering, sinking into the water around them...* misono: !!! *lily's memories flood his head* Memory!Lily: "...I promise: he will not remember what has transpired." memory!mikuni: hey little guy, im your big brother. Memory!Mikado: "What have you done?!!" misono: are these....!!! memory!mary: *she weakly reaches her hand out* Memory!Mikado: "He must never know. He is my son--and I don't want him to be hurt." memory!mikage: to think im a father...its amazing. Memory!Lily: *looking at Mikage's pocket watch, smiles* "Time flies, does it not, my friend?" memory!misono: please stay with us, snow lily. misono: *he opens his eyes...he is now in his bed* mitsuki: he's awake! Mikado: "...Son?" misono: father? Mikado: Q~Q "MY BABY!!!" misono: ah! t-too tight! ???: misono! misono:.... !!!! madoka: *waves* misono: W-WHY IS SHE HERE?! Rin: "!!! Um...We want to check up on you, dude? You had a pretty nasty time, huh?" misono:....lily is he- mitsuki: he's alive...albiet a bit lethargic....he hasnt spoken to anyone since he woke up. he hasnt even tried to strip. Rin: "...Tried to what?" mitsuki:.....long story. madoka: *sweatdrop* misono: are mahiru and the others- Mikado: "My baby needs rest! Please, don't worry your pretty little head..." yamame: they're helping out....dodo is injured, the subclass fell ill... misono:....... Mikado: *stares at Yamame* -_-; misono: .....i need to use the bathroom Rin: *looking around* "Um..." ("I don't see a bedpan...Can he even stand up?") Mikado: "Of course. Would you like me to carry you there?" misono: i can walk thanks. tetsu: i'll walk him there. Mikado: "CLEAR THE WAY! MY SON NEEDS TO TINKLE!" misono: FATHER PLEASE! -tetsu and misono exit.....outside- misono: why are you- tetsu: just thought you needed help. misono:.....thanks..... *he goes inside* -The library has numerous volumes, as well as a desk covered with Mikado's files, books, and letters- misono: *looking around* -One book is a journal, opened to a page with a word standing out: Mikuni- misono: *he looks at a photo of his family*......*he looks at the journal*...... misono:....!!!! w-what....? Mikado's journal: "...but I was too late: Mikuni had killed her." misono: .....oh....that's right..... misono: why...why did he kill our mother?....*looks at more journals* there has to be some......thing..... *his eyes widen and his pupils shrink* journal: the truth is, misono was born from an affair. misono: *he feels his heart drop again* -he continues to read how mikuni's mother murdered misono's birth mother, how he was taken in, how mrs alisuin tried to kill him before mikuni killed her then left- misono:...no....nonononono......*he feels like he is about to scream....but nothing came out but silence* misono: *whimpering* im sorry....im sorry.....im sorry....lily....mother....father....mikuni......this is my fault....if i had just died then- -Misono's hand knocks into a book...- misono: ??? w-what? -Letters fall out of the book- misono: *he reads them*..... letter: dear mikado, thank you for the letter you sent. misono and i are doing well. do you like the name? i named him after you to an extent. he's already beginning to speak and he's always smiling. -misono continues to read the letter- misono: *tears begin to fall* -a watch is contained in the letter, as well as a photo of misono and his mother. misono:....i really...do take after her..... -inside the mansion- Lily: "..." yamane: lily? misono wants to speak with you. misono:......i know the truth now. Lily: "...I hurt you, didn't I?" misono:....you arent the one to blame here....no one is really.....it hurt a lot....but....i think im ready to accept it....my mother would have wanted me to....im not mad at you. Lily: "...Misono...Your mother..." misono: i know. Lily: "...I'm sorry. I'm so sorry...for all of this." misono: ....i forgive you....*he hands him the watch* i know its early but, merry Christmas, snow lily. Lily: "...Merry Christmas, Misono..." *accepts the watch* misono:....*extends an arm* here....you're probably hungry.... Lily: "...No, I'm--" *stomach growl* o\\\\o "...Okay, a little." misono: *smiles* Lily: "..." *opens his mouth, as he leans towards Misono's arm...* -later- sayaka: there, how does that look? mitsuki: looks good. Mikado: "???" sayaka: *putting up decorations* oh, thanks for letting us help out, mr alisuin! Mikado: "It is...helpful. It has been so long since hanging up these decorations..." *examines one ornament...* sayaka: *she looks* *The ornament says "Mikuni's 4th Christmas* sayaka: so you do remember him? Mikado: "...This is a family that, for so long, has wanted one thing: to forget...Maybe..." sayaka:.....is this mrs alisuin.....wait a second...misono doesnt look like either of you. *GASP* is he *whispers* adopted? Mikado: "N-No...It's...a family concern." misono: father...may i speak with you? in private? Mikado: *chipper* "Of course, my son~" *gently sets the ornament onto the tree, in a prominent spot* "..." *follows Misono* -in the study- misono: i know the truth now. about my mother....my real mother. Mikado: "..." *nods* "I...did not want you to...You were so young and...I didn't..." misono: .....even then, i would learn eventually....but im not angry with you...if i held it against you, i wouldnt get anywhere....you really loved her, didnt you? both of them? Mikado: "...Yes. I am...awful." misono: you.....did something wrong....but that doesnt make you a terrible person. i appreciate that you looked out for me. but i think im ready to face things on my own. no....im not on my own...i have friends by my side. Mikado: "...I can't just let you out there. You are a child. You need family to be with you--" -chessboard chairs appear- Mikado: "?!!! What on Earth...?" misono: i am young, yes, but that doesnt mean im not mature. im not going to leave my family, i can always come home. but im ready to find my own path. Mikado: "...'Your own path'..." *smiles* "Interesting...I think that path may take you somewhere...May I ask you something?" misono: yes, but first i must ask something as well. i know this will come off as harsh, but it needs to be said, would my mother have wanted me to be locked up forever? Mikado: "...No." -the board and chairs dissipate- misono: now...what did you want to ask me? Mikado: *sighs* "...If you see your brother...I want you to pass on this message from me." misono:......what is it? Mikado: " 'Son...Come home.'" misono:....ok. i will. -elsewhere- metsu: rummaging through mikuni's mail _again_, doctor? Faustus: "...What? I like the free perfume samples." *sniffs the mail* "Aaaaaah~ Lavender!" metsu: -.-; .... ??? *she notices something; an invitation to the alisuin mansion christmas party* oh? Jeje: "..." Faustus: "...Oh, that invitation? Yeah, junk mail. Can I use it for scrap paper?" metsu: .....*she goes upstairs* mikuni? you have a letter. Mikuni: *holds up a puppet, speaking through it with a high pitch* "What's that, buddy?" metsu:....here. *she sticks the letter in the puppets mouth and goes back downstairs* Mikuni: *smiles, waves...Picks the invitation out of the mouth...and recognizes the handwriting* "...No..." Mikuni: "..." *leaves it on his desk...* "Wh-Why now...?" -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: "Hmm..." *staring at seven candles, around one large candle...he put out one candle* "One down..." Lavender: and then there were 6... -elsewhere- Hibana: *frowning, her leg in a cast* gabriella: *kiss* its ok. we can still cozy up to the fire place~ Hibana: *pouts, blushing from the kiss* "I can't believe I break my leg going down the children's slope..." -elsewhere- mitsuba: HYAAAH! *slicing jinn away* take that! akane: where did it all come from in one night? Jun: "Something bad..." tinker: no kidding. these readings are off the charts! Jun: "Contain it, and mark the locations. We can track them to their origin..." tinker: right! shuuhei, how's everything at your end? Shuuhei: *grumbles* "So dirty...It's everywhere..." -elsewhere- Relan: "...Are there any updates?" ryuuko: nothing currently. Relan: "Oh...Okay...H-How are you?" ryuuko: well. mikami and i were invited to a christmas party. Some of the more prestigious families in the area will be attending. Relan: *smiles* "That should be nice." ryuuko: *she nods* Relan: *picks up Buttons* "A lot of fun happening..." buttons: ^o^ Relan: "So cute!" *smiles happily* "Wait 'til you see the new toys you get for Christmas, Buttons..." -and so, the next night- kilik: wow, fancy party. sayaka: sure is! Wes: *looking around* "Impressive architecture." norio: mikado. a pleasure to see you. *he nods* Mikado: "Oh! Greetings." *offers his hand* norio: *shakes hand* i'd like you to meet my wife, Chikami, and my daughter, Mikami. mikami: h-hello... ._.; Mikado: "A pleasure..." ("A name that starts with an 'M'..." *plotting* ) ryuuko: ... Mikado: *looks at Ryuuko* "Hello!" norio: and this is my daughter's friend, Ryuuko Houo. they're both members of the 3rd special fire brigade. Mikado: "Oh...Is that the brigade with the head of Hajima Industries?" norio: no that would be. Mr Helvitz: actually, that would be the 6th brigade. also its head of haijima's european branch. vivian: ^^ Mikado: "Oh...Well, welcome!" -on the balcony- madoka: you're a really good dancer, rin. Rin: *small embarrassed laugh* "I had a lot of practice...Dad always had me do that..." madoka:....is he...feeling any better? Rin: "...Some days are better than others..." madoka:....*she hugs him* Rin: *holds her close* "I'm sorry for bringing it up..." madoka: its ok. *she kisses him on the nose* Rin: -\\\\- "Aaaah..." madoka: hehe~ so cute. Rin: "Um, I mean, you're cuter..." misono:......*walking away, somewhat heartbroken*....*sighs* -bump- misono: !!! shinoa: oh, pardon me. i guess i wasnt paying attention~ misono: ..... shinoa: something wrong? misono: nothing..... shinoa: ....say, want to dance? misono: w-wha? shinoa: ah, introductions. im Shinoa Hiiragi. *extends a hand* misono:.... 7///7; Misono Alisuin. Lily: *peeks from around the corner* :3 misono:...f-fine. shinoa: hehe, come on~ *she takes him back to the ballroom* Lily: *squee* -elsewhere- Kid: *smiles* stocking: such a nice night out... Kid: *nods* "Glad to see one..." *holds her hand* ("Especially after such curfews...") stocking: *admiring the lights* Kid: *points to one light* "Excellent display..." stocking: *she smiles* Kid: "...When I was tiny, my father took me out to see the light displays...and I...I..." stocking: ?? Kid: -\\\\- "I had thought about taking my _own_ children to see such light displays..." stocking: *blush* that would be lovely. Kid: *nods...small squeeze of her hand* "Stocking...I love you." stocking: i love you too kid. *she kisses him* Kid: *kisses back...smiles* -elsewhere- Black Star: "...I keep checking around here, making sure the windows are all secured." tsubaki: ..... Black Star: "...Hey. You're going to be alright." tsubaki: i know....it's lily im worried about... Black Star: *nods* "...Any update?" tsubaki:...he's...better....but still weakened.... Black Star: "..." *puts his hand over Tsubaki's* "He's a tenacious guy: he's going to get better." tsubaki:....*she nods* Black Star: "...Would you like to go visit him?" tsubaki: i would like that...i think there's a formal party there.... Black Star: "I could get dressed up, right now!" -and so- Black Star: o_o "...You keep figuring out new ways to look classy." tsubaki: thanks ^^; *she is in an asian inspired outfit with her hair done up* Black Star: *in a suit, actually looking presentable* *offers his arm to lead her inside* soul:...*spots them* dont i know you from somewhere? *he speaks in a joking tone* Black Star: *smirks* "Yeah, the row behind you in class." soul: yeah i know, haha! surprised to see you guys here. tsubaki: ^^ Black Star: "...You see Lily around?" soul: hmm? oh, you mean the person with the, uh... *puts two fingers on his head to mimic lily's antennae* Black Star: "Yeah. Also, he may be stripping." soul:.......uhhhh... mahiru: he's in the kid's room. soul: O______O mahiru: HE'S NOT DOING ANYTHING TO THEM! Black Star: "Awesome--thanks, Mahiru! Tsubaki, you want to talk with him on your own, or...?" tsubaki: *she nods and goes to the kid's room* mary: miss tsubaki! *hug* julie: tsutsu! Lily: "???" *looks to see Tsubaki, smiles* "Hello." tsubaki: hello. feeling any better? Lily: "...A bit. Slowly." tsubaki: at least its something.....and how is misono doing? Lily: "...He is...encountering some major changes in his life." *smiles* "But I think he is ready to face them...He _has_ been ready, for some time." tsubaki: *she nods* misono: -//////- honestly, that girl.... Lily: "How are you, sweetie?" *glances at Misono...* tsubaki: well...oh, hey misono. misono: *he nods* Lily: "Misono, want to sit and chat with Tsubaki and me for a bit?" misono: um. sure. Lily: *smiles* "Tsubaki, are you okay?" tsubaki: *she nods* yeah. -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: "..." naho: something wrong? Mr. Tsubaki: "...I am torn, in two directions, by what my goal is...and what my heart desires." naho: *listening* Mr. Tsubaki: "I want to make a point to these other sins...but I fear, should I move forward with this plan, I will shut off another option...another path towards happiness, towards her." naho: ...... Mr. Tsubaki: "...I am stuck having to wait and see what comes next." -outside- lilac:......*sniff* saku:...what is it? lilac:..... saku: is this because of what greed did? lilac:.....*tearing up* saku:......your friends....they died because they were weak. lilac: *tenses* saku: in this world, only the strongest survive...remember that. lilac:...... Shamrock: "...Is there a problem here?" saku: its nothing....*walking away* lilac:....... Shamrock: "...Lilac. Don't listen to her..." *pats Lilac's shoulder* lilac:...... Shamrock: "...Let's get some tea..." lilac:..... -elsewhere- Yohei: "Zzzz..." chie: *tucking him in* hehe~ -christmas morning- Patty: *peeks over Liz's bed* :3 liz: merry christmas sis! Patty: "Awwww, I was going to wake you up!" *crawls into bed, hugs Liz* "Merry Christmas!" liz: hehe... Patty: "Can we head down and open gifts now?" liz: sure thing! -in kid and stocking's room- Kid: o\\\\o stocking: well~? *in a cute wintery nightgown* Kid: "That looks great on you..." stocking: hehe~ Kid: "..." *holds up a small wrapped box for her* "Merry Christmas, Stocking." stocking: *she opens it* !!! kid... *The jewelry looks like a candy necklace, only thinner and with more subdued colors* Kid: "..." stocking: its beautiful. *she kisses him* Kid: -\\\\- "It seemed to suit you..." stocking: hehe~ -elsewhere- Akitaru: *giddy* "New weights! Thanks!" shinra: *he smiles* Takehisa: *looking at his present* "..." tamaki: its not going to eat you. Arthur: "I hope not...I once thought there was a Griffin in my Christmas gift, but it was only socks..." *unwraps...* "!!!" -it was a custom pen sword- Arthur: "...Glorious...THANK YOU!" tamaki: no problem. Arthur: -\\\\\- "Here is your gift..." tamaki: thanks. *she opened it up* *It is a cat themed bracelet and a set of game cards for her mobile video game* tamaki: *shiny eyes* this is great! thanks! *hug* Arthur: "Heh. I'm glad you like them..." -elsewhere- Emine: "...Why is this box wrapped in paper decorated with dancing penguins?" mana: it's called 'gift wrap' Emine: "...That one penguin looks mischievous..." *carefully unwraps...* -its a nice scarf- Emine: "...I like this color." lin: ^^ i worked extra hard on it! Emine: *smooch* "Thank you." lin: >////////< -elsewhere- Hibana: "I had a surprise for you, before this broken leg..." gabriella: oh? Hibana: -////- "Yeah...but I did get you another surprise..." *hands her a new phone* gabriella: aww, thank you! *smooch* Hibana: *hug* "I tried to get the best I could, for the best woman..." gabriella: >///////////< Hibana: "I love you so much..." -elsewhere- lilac:......... Mr. Tsubaki: "Lilac?" lilac: ?? Mr. Tsubaki: "What troubles you?" lilac:.....nothing... Mr. Tsubaki: "...When something is on my mind, I look to the sky. I never got to see many stars when I was younger. Too many clouds out..." lilac:...... Mr. Tsubaki: "Gives perspective, on where we are in this universe." lilac:......... belkia: *downing a whole thing of egg nog* Shamrock: *sips* "Really, you will have a terrible hangover..." lavender: CHUG! CHUG! CHUG! belkia: MUSCLE TUFF! *slams bottle to the ground* HOO HOO!! Higan: "Yay, booze!" sakuya: -_-; Shamrock: "So embarrassing..." saku:..... <idiots.> Mr. Tsubaki: "Now, now, enough drinking...We have additional gifts..." -elsewhere- the mother: i say we find this little 'tsubaki' prick and give him a good what for. *cracks knuckles* Hugh: "He is quite powerful..." soul: if we all ambush the guy, then we can get some answers. tsubaki:..... Black Star: "We'd do better if we separated him from his clique... mahiru: then we'll have to bait him out somehow.... Kuro: "...Tsubaki?" tetsu: isnt that what we're discussing? Kuro: "No, I was speaking to _our_ Tsubaki. She can be our bait." tsubaki:.... Black Star: "What?! After what has happened?!!" mahiru: it does sound risky... Hugh: "Yet he seems to let his guard down around her..." tsubaki:...i'll do it. if it helps. Black Star: "...Can we be your backup?" tsubaki: .... romina: i think i have a plan. guildenstern, you got spare whale suits? Guil: *whale noise* "...I mean, yes." sayaka: THE WHALE FREAKING TALKS?! Guildenstern: "I CAN SAY MANY THINGS." Black Star: "...I remember when talking cats were weirdest thing I saw..." romina: the whale suit's actually a costume. sayaka: oh, ok. Guildenstern: "But what do you need an extra whale suit for?" -romina explains her plan of hiding tsubaki in one of 5 whale suits, while 4 others, including guildenstern and romina, hide in the other suits- Black Star: "...So, Mr. Tsubaki won't attack or risk hurting her..." the mother: it sounds crazy enough to work. Hugh: "Or just crazy..." romina: i say we take a call of hands. all in favor. Kuro: "..." *reverts to cat form, buries himself in Mahiru's arms* mahiru: *exits the room with kuro* Hugh: -_-;;; "Yes, I agree...but no more votes..." the mother: i think we should give it a shot. Black Star: "..." (pats Tsubaki's hand) the mother:......oh...right.... tsubaki:...*she nods* romina: so that's me and guildenstern in two suits. any volunteers for the other suits? Black Star: "Right here!" una:....those whale suits look so fluffy....i wouldnt mind sleeping on one -.- Guildenstern: -_-;;; "The outfits are comfortable..." una: does it make a good bed or pillow? ray *sweatdrop* (thinking: she certainly lives in her own world, doesnt she?) Guildenstern: "...Likely." una: yaaay. -w- ray: gil? what do you think? Gil: "I wanna shove a harpoon up this Tsubaki jerkoff's butt!" *cackles, before turning calmly to Ray* "Is that okay?" ray: sounds good. una: whale shish-kabobs?.....sounds yummy –w Guildenstern: "I will not be shishkabobbed!" Black Star: o-o "...I hope he meant the Tsubaki we don't like..." ray: he did. Black Star: "Good..." una: can we get yakitori afterwards? Gil: "Whatever you wish~" ray: *sweatdrop* the mother: *sweatdrops* Black Star: "...In any case, how will Tsubaki and another person move in those suits?" -elsewhere- Kishiri: [text: okay trip with family?] vivian: [yeah. europe is nice, but i miss u *sad face*] Kishiri: [same. Wish I could be there. Anything u want me to do while you're away?] -elsewhere- Kid: *smiles* stocking: *smooooch* you're just the sweetest~<3 Kid: "You're doubly sweet~ Did you like your gifts?" stocking: very much so. Kid: "...That's not all..." stocking: oh? Kid: *holds up a blindfold* stocking: oh my~ *she puts it on* Kid: *small kiss on her cheeks* "These clothes won't do, though..." stocking: ah... Kid: "carefully takes off her dress, leaving her in her underwear* "I'm going to walk you just over here...You're still in our bedroom, the door is locked...Do you trust me?" stocking: yes, of course i do. Kid: "Okay..." *he is behind her, guiding her to sit down...she can feel something hard against her leg* stocking: ahh.... Kid: *slides her panties to the side* "I'm going to slide this new toy in, okay?" stocking: o-ok... *She feels it slide into her...It is long..She is sitting on something with a dildo going into her* Kid: "And now, to turn it on..." stocking: ahhhh.... *Kid guides her hands to clutch the base of the device on which she is seated...Then he turns it on, sending light, slow pulses into her* stocking: *she moans loudly* k-kid! Kid: *he clutches her breasts from behind* "I control the switch...Should I decrease the speed?" stocking: m-more...please... Kid: *on set of fingers release the snaps on her bra, while his other hand turns up the speed...* "Enjoy..." -elsewhere- Yohei: *cuddles* chie: hehe~<3 Yohei: "Imagine our baby's first Christmas..." chie: >w< Yohei: "Little snowman outfit..." chie: *squeeee* Yohei: "Children's books...stuffed toys...advanced robotics manuals..." chie: ^^; Yohei: "I'm kidding! ...A little" chie: sure babe. *smooch* Yohei: >\\\\< "I'm just excited.. " chie: i am too. Yohei: "I hope he has your smile.. " -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: "..." *crying silently* kabuki: ??? are you ok miss usada? Tsukiyo: "K-Kabuki?!" *wipes tears, puts on fake smile* "How's it hanging?" kabuki:...alright...but you seemed upset... Tsukiyo: (fake smile falls) "...I barely heard from family..." kabuki:...*soft hug* Tsukiyo: "..." *holds onto him, cries* kabuki: shhh... its ok. Tsukiyo: *calms down...* "Thank you...I'm sorry." kabuki: it's quite alright. Tsukiyo: *still holding onto him...eyes droop...then...* "Zzzzz..." -elsewhere- Wes: "Comfy?" liz: yeah. Wes: *slides under the blanket and next to her* "Good...I was worried you were chilly..." liz: not with you. Wes: "Hee hee..." *hugs her, kisses her cheek* liz: i love you. Wes: "...I love you, too..." *cuddles* -elsewhere- Black Star: "You sure about this?" tsubaki: *she nods* i have no intention of killing him. if i can resolve this peacefully, i will. Black Star: "Will he try to hurt you?" tsubaki: i dont believe he will. Black Star: "...I'll back you up to make sure that doesn't happen." tsubaki: *she nods* Black Star: *holds her hand* "I love you." tsubaki: *she hugs him* i love you too. Black Star: *hug* "..." soul:....*he looks over at lawless* Lawless: "..." *stands to exit* licht: where are you doing? Lawless: "Nothing..." romina:..... Lawless: "I shall depart to get some air..." romina:..... Lawless: "...WHAT?" romina: i didnt say anything. Lawless: "Then cease with your stares! Look inward at thyself rather than upon my visage!" soul: huh? Lawless: "...Just stop looking at me. I'm sensitive to that." soul: sorry, jeez. Lawless: *marches away* soul: should we go after him. licht: why should we care? soul: you know, you have some fucking nerve todoroki. he's your partner! sure you may disagree a lot, but you're both in this together dammit! *drags him along* Black Star: "..." *loud applause* romina:...... ray: so that just happened. Gil: "Fuck yeah, it did! Really loud rant there!" misono: now to put the plan in motion...thankfully i had lily write down the phone number while we still had that old man's phone. Black Star: "So, you're calling the guy himself?" misono: ........would someone call him? mahiru: are you ever going to learn how to use a phone? -_-; Black Star: "Just one of you dial that creep!" tsubaki: i'll do it. *she dials the number* Mr. Tsubaki: "???" *answers* "Hello?" tsubaki: hello. Mr. Tsubaki: "...Camelia Blossom?" tsubaki: *sweatdrop* yes, its me. Mr. Tsubaki: "Well, hello~ To what do I owe this pleasure?" tsubaki:.....*she looks at black*star. she had a plan* i surrender. Black Star: "??!!" Mr. Tsubaki: 0///0 "Surrender what?" tsubaki: i'll surrender myself. Mr. Tsubaki: "...To...me? Why?" tsubaki: on one condition; if i surrender, you wont send your subclass to harm the other servamps. Mr. Tsubaki: "...With you by my side, I will have no reason to...Where shall we meet? I can send a subclass--" tsubaki: ....i want to see you. face to face. Mr. Tsubaki: "As you wish. The park?" tsubaki: in the wooded area, yes. Mr. Tsubaki: "I look forward to seeing you. I promise, I will do whatever to make your time with me the happiest in your life." tsubaki:.... -at the hotel- belkia: what was that call for? Mr. Tsubaki: *starts dancing with Belkia* "I have a date with destiny!" lavender: huh, i think i worked with a girl by that name way back when. otogiri: it's a figure of speech. -_-; Mr. Tsubaki: *twirls Belkia* "I am off to bring our new mommy home: the Camelia Blossom herself!" Shamrock: D: naho: *JAWDROP* Mr. Tsubaki: "Toodles!" *starts skipping to the exit* Shamrock: "B-Bu-But--Someone stop him!" belkia: question! should we have this be a traditional japanese style wedding, or a western style? Mr. Tsubaki: *calls back* "Two weddings, then! Two days of weddings! Four days! Oh, make everyday a new wedding for me and my blossom!" lavender + sakuya + otogiri: -A-; (thinking: he's way beyond salvation at this point...) Mr. Tsubaki: *departs for the elevator, humming the wedding march* -elsewhere- licht: fuck, he runs fast for shit rat. soul: no kidding....OI! LAWLESS! WHERE DID YA GO?! Lawless: *hidden amongst the bushes...* soul: ....... (thinking: maka, if you were here, you could find him....) *Wind brushes by Soul...from a direction that seems to draw with it a familiar wavelength...* Lawless: *feels wind blow by him* "?!!!" ("When did it get all warm all of a sudden?") soul: hey. Lawless: "?!!! 'Swounds! How did you spot me?!!" soul: call it divine intervention. licht: come on idiot, lets go already. Lawless: "No! Don't you get it? We have a gorgeous opportunity to stop the Sin of Melancholy once and for all!" soul: but tsubaki...she wants to resolve this peacefully, and that's what we're going to do. Lawless: "No! I will not let that happen! I will not let someone give themselves up to secure peace. I WILL NOT LOSE HER AGAIN!" soul: !!!! licht: ?? Lawless: "...Nothing. It is zero, a space, the 'o' in...in her name. Forget it. Be like Lavinia and cut off your tongues than speak of what I am about to do! I will kill Melancholia, save your Tsubaki, and this war can end..." licht: *KICKS HIM ACROSS THE FACE* you talk too much. soul: h-hey! what the hell?! licht: im going to knock some fucking sense into him....because *pose* im an angel. soul: THIS ISNT THE TIME FOR THAT D:< Lawless: "If you intend to block my path...THEN PREPARE TO DIE!" soul: !!! licht: say that shit to my face. Lawless: *rushes at him* "No words, just force!" soul: !!!! *blocks the sword with a scythe arm* Lawless: "Back, shark! Or you will be meat for my stew!" soul: what the hell is wrong with you? Lawless: "Why is she doing this?!" *slices at Soul* "No one should have to sacrifice themselves, especially not her!" licht: she's doing it of her own volition, why should it matter to you? Lawless: "Because this does not have to happen! It should not happen!" soul: well, it kind of is, no changing it now. Lawless: "...Then I will stop her!" (Tries to make a run for it...) licht: *summons piano barrier* she knows what she's doing. Lawless: "NO, SHE DOES NOT!" *shrieks and howls, as the reality around him ripples* soul + licht: !!!!! -the area around them resembles a theater- voice: everyone take your seats. the show is about to begin. soul: ??? *Lawless appears, in Renaissance garb, before a statue, its features hidden in shadows* soul: ??? (thinking: isnt...that the same statue from history class?) Lawless: *steps into the spotlight* "...This is the tale of a woman too pure for this damned world." licht: ... *Light shines onto a setting of a city on the other side of the stage...Two groups, one wearing blue and the other wearing green, quarrel* Mob: "Sacrifice!" "We demand blood!" "Bring us the sacrifice!" soul: ?? Lawless: "..." *smirks* "But, I am telling the story out of order. Let's start earlier..." *The set moves away, taking the mob with it, their screams of bloodlust fading as sunshine falls onto the stage, revealing a castle in the distance, a forest in front of it...Lawless seems to have vanished from the stage* ~The Tragedy Of Ophelia~ ???: "Ophelia!" *A hedgehog runs through the forest* Lawless: "Ophelia!" ???: just a little further now... -a young lady picks a fruit from the top of a tree- ???: got it! -upon grabbing the fruit, the young lady fell out from the canopy- ???: ah- Lawless: "Ophelia!" *transforms into human, leaps, catches her...* ophelia: hehe, nice catch. girl: princess! are you ok? ophelia: im fine. look. i got the largest one on the tree. boy: wow! Lawless: *still holding her, pouts* ophelia: thanks for catching me.....lawless, you can put me down now ^^; Lawless: "You should not be picking fruit for others. Why can't you leave this work to someone else?" ophelia: *sigh* puck's going to be a big brother soon, we were gathering fruits to celebrate. girl: mr lawless, lets make flower crowns! -when sunset came, the two returned to the palace- ophelia:...its nice isnt it? the families of this country are growing more each day. Lawless: -_- "Yeah...Speaking of growing, you're getting harder to carry...and catch when you fall..." ophelia: *she pouts* mean. im not a little girl anymore, haha. *Lawless is wearing a flower crown* ophelia: hehe, its a cute look for you. -time passed on for the two, until one day....- ophelia: *in an ornate gown* i'll be getting married soon. Lawless: "What?! Why?!" ophelia: ....the skirmishes with the neighboring country have gotten worse. if it escalates further, a war will break out... Lawless: "But...But I...I..." ophelia: ?? Lawless: "...I don't want you to throw away your independence like this." ("Why can't I speak the truth to her...?") ophelia: ....*soft smile* im not looking for freedom, what i want...is peace for this country. i want to become an icon of peace, and tie the knot between both our countries. -and so, with the union of the prince and princess, the two countries were brought together, and peace was attained. however... such peace, did not last long- soldier: that attack was a declaration of war! soldier 2: the've gone two far this time! solider 3: i saw we put their beloved princess to death! that should teach them a lesson! Lawless: (overhearing in hedgehog mode) Lawless: (runs to Ophelia's room) ophelia: hmm? what is it? Lawless: "We have to escape! You have to escape! The military intends a coup, intends to kill you!" ophelia: !!..... Lawless: (takes her hand) "We can run away! To safety! Where you won't be hurt!" ophelia:....im sorry. but im staying here. Lawless: "...What?" ophelia: *she chuckles* this is the second time now that you suggested we run away...but its like i said before, i dont want to run away. what i want is peace, for not only my country, but both countries. heh, i guess that is rather avaricous of me, huh? if i must die for self-realization, then so be it. Lawless: "...Ophelia...You...You can't...I...I..." ophelia: its ok...no matter what happens, even after im gone, i hope...you can find happiness somewhere. -soon, the day of her execution came- Lawless: (pale, eyes sunken) "..." ophelia: how mane ages hence? shall this, our lofty scene be acted over? in states unborn and accents unknown? this will be my final sacrifice for peace, this is not the beginning of a war, but the end of one. people of both countries, heed my words. i was not forced to come here, i am here of my own accord. if you were to ask why, the answer is quite simple. it is because i loved peace, as much as i could love it. ophelia: people of both countries. i hope that you will plant a flower of peace... all of you. whom i loved. -those....were her final words- -slice- -The stage fades to black...and the sun rises. The scaffold and its blade are gone, replaced with a statue...- -decades passed, and a lonely, heartbroken stayed by the statue built in memory of the princess- -Rain falls onto Lawless and the statue- ???: this is why we dont fall in love with humans. -a young boy, no, the servamp of pride, approached the young man- Lawless: "...What can I say...I desire..." -the 7 silblings of sin discussed an important matter...however, this is a story we already heard, is it not? ignoring the repetitive details, when the man returned, all that remained of that country...was rubble- Lawless: "...What the devil...happened...?" -the statue of peace was left in shatters, the head barely remained....but as the statue shattered....so did the young man's mind- Lawless: "...Hee...Hee...HA HA HA HA!!!" (Tears falling down his face) -life...love...such a pitiful thing....such a pitiful man....pitiful...pitiful meaningless life- -its time for the final curtain call and final bows everyone~- Lawless: "All for naught! All for naught!" soul:...... licht:..... Lawless: -approaches stage...bows.. - licht: ok. enough is enough... *he stands up* puppet!romina: backstage passes only~ Lawless: "???" licht: *kicks the doll aside* out of the way, shit doll. Lawless: 'Sorry, no encores..." licht: mind if we give you some critique? the soundtrack needs improving. *he gets onto the stage, soul follows* Lawless: "Hey! This is my story!" soul: lets hear him out for a moment. licht: *begins playing fur elise* i can see it now...the faces of those moved to tears by my performance. i can hear their tears dripping onto their hands. Lawless: "...Stop that, you bastard...You know I despise sad songs..." soul: its not the song that's sad....its, all open to interpretation, right? Lawless: "And that is what I see and hear. The world is depressing. That is all I sense from it." soul: ....isnt is just _you_ who's depressed?.....after what happened, its reasonable to be sad.....but you cant just spend your life being miserable. Lawless: "...A lifetime cannot change what I did wrong...I should have told her..." soul: .....i think i know what you mean......i lost someone i loved too. sure, we squabbled often, but in the end, we always made up....she really did...bring out the better parts of me......when she was killed, i was ready to just give everything up....but, i had friends there, to help me overcome the pain......if im remembering correctly, ophelia wanted you to be happy, didnt she? Lawless: "...I...can't imagine happiness." licht: of course you can. soul: *he then begins to play; tsubasa wo kudasai* licht: just think of it....you are a small child....you are an elderly woman....you are flowers....you are the universe. what is it you want in life? imagine it with all your heart and soul. -what are you?- Lawless: "!!!" ("...I never wanted anything greater in this world...But then I heard Licht's music, and it was like nothing I heard before. And I wanted to be with it, hear it...and I want to hear this music...hear so much more music...") -what is it that you wanted to become?- -ophelia's image smiles warmly- Lawless: (clutches something around his neck) "...I want to be the man she loved." -its ok for you to miss her. its understandable. as long as you remember her, then she's never truly gone- licht: do you want to be someone who just withers and dies? left to be forgotten? Lawless: "Ophelia...I didn't tell you I loved you. I didn't ask you to leave with me to make your global peace a reality. But now...I will bring this peace to this world, and I will make sure this is a world where love and peace can thrive.” licht: then get out there.... licht + soul: AND LIVE YOUR DAMN LIFE TO THE FULLEST!! Lawless: (sneers) "Such coarse language...but it's loud and clear!" -they are back on the sidewalk- licht:...come on hyde. lets go home. Lawless: "Tch. Home? Don't you think we'd still be more helpful backing up the young lady against Melancholia?" licht: *kick* i meant home base, dumbass -_-; soul: ^^; i guess the more things change, the more they stay the same....hey, lawless.....there's gonna be days when you feel like shit....if you need someone to talk to, you can talk to me, ok? Lawless: "Ouch! How mean!...And sure, whatever, talk...Um...thanks." soul: no probs. Lawless: "...Hey, how do you even have teeth like that?" -elsewhere, in the woods- Mr. Tsubaki: "..." (internal screaming of glee) ??? hey. -WHAAAAAALE- Mr. Tsubaki: "...What?" (Dodges) -5 whales are standing before you. whale 1: yo. Mr. Tsubaki: "Oh, my! Such silly designs and inappropriate voices! Hee hee hee! What is this?" whale 1: the person you are looking for is in one of these suits. can you guess which one it is? Mr. Tsubaki: "...Camelia Blossom? You're into...whale cosplay. Hmmm...That is surprising, but I suppose I could get used to it..." whale 1: .....YOU GONNA TRY FINDIN HER OR NOT?! Mr. Tsubaki: "If it gets me closer to her--" (flash step until he is next to one whale..and hugs them) "Blossom Flower!" whale 2: O-O;; (ray: *SCREAMING INTERNALLY*) Mr. Tsubaki: "...Wait...I CAN'T TELL WHO IS IN HERE! Too much padding!" whale 3: *CHARGES AT HIM* Mr. Tsubaki: "...Not interesting at all.. " (dodges) "I'll just have to take the outfit off of each of you until I find my Camelia inside..." whale 1: O-O; (romina: im gonna whup his ass.) Mr. Tsubaki: (leaps at Whale 1) whale 3: *HEADBUTT* SCATTER!!! -the whales run in different directions- Mr. Tsubaki: "Umph! Wait! Come back, my love!” *Chases one whale* -elsewhere- Black Star: "..." misono: looks like we're going to infultrate again...i got better disguises this time, so hopefully this works. mahiru: quick question....why are half of us going dressed as girls? misono: since our group is mostly guys, they wont expect it! it's called strategy! sayaka: i think you guys look so cuuuute! Lily: "Strike a pose!" the mother: it's a nice look. madoka: so convincing. Black Star: "Then keep the parts up so not to bring suspicion..." tetsu: ok. *dressed as a butler* Hugh: ): "I hate this baby look..." sayaka: i think it's really cute! i just wanna take you home! >w< uzuki: it's amazing i still had some doll clothes that fit you. Hugh: D: -and so- Lily: (waves to everyone as they enter) "Excellent dress! Oh, you are rocking those shoes! Cool shades!" clerk: may i help you. misono: *higher voice* yes, we're looking for 'carmine entertainers' to audition? Hugh: (nods) clerk: ah yes, the top floor. *hands them a key* Lily: "Wonderful! Thank you so much..." -on the elevator- mahiru: you guys ready? misono: yeah. tetsu: *nods* Hugh: (nods) Lily: "Yes...Can't wait to try battling in this number..." misono: try to take it easy. you still lost a lot of jinn... Lily: "...Of course..." -top floor- Shamrock: "...Where is the master? What is taking him so long?" belkia: izayoin's still isnt back either. -ding- otogiri: ?? Shamrock: (opens the door) misono: guess who. Shamrock: "...Who are you young ladies with these familiar looking young men?" misono: O-O; sakuya: what's going o-....m...mahiru?! mahiru: O-O;;;; Lily: "...So much for the plan..." tetsu: *throws a coffin at shamrock* Shamrock: (coffin to the head) "OUCHIE!" -elsewhere, mr tsubaki's phone rings- belkia: WE GOTS A PROBLEM! Mr. Tsubaki: "So do I! These whale suits are practically glued to their skin!" belkia: WE GOT PLAYED LIKE A FIDDLE MAN! THOSE BRATS AMBUSHED US! Mr. Tsubaki: "...WHAT?!!" *rip!* "...Nope, you definitely are not my Blossom. Nice undies, though." Guildenstern: D: ray: im officially scarred for life. Mr. Tsubaki: "...My Blossom lied to me!!! She's not here at all, is she?!" ray: maybe she is maybe she isnt. romina: schrodinger's flower. Mr. Tsubaki: "...Belkia, capture the interlopers but do not kill them. I have whales to strip..." belkia: you got it! Mr. Tsubaki: (war cry) "I will find you, my beloved! I hope you are presentable!" -back at the hotel- Hugh: "Behind you!" tetsu: !! *dodge* lavender: you know, you're kinda cute. a shame you arent a bit older. otogiri: you're shameless. belkia: SHISHKABOBING TIME! Lily: (dodging, barely) misono: this is bad. Shamrock: "How dare you trick us with deceptive albeit fashionable attire!" mahiru: kuro! belkia: jeez, where's izayoin when you need her? Kuro: "...I don't want to. I hate this outfit." (Dressed like Hello Kitty) Shamrock: (tackles Tetsu) tetsu: !!! Shamrock: (chokehold) misono: *jumps onto shamrock's back and tries prying him off* GET OFF HIM! Shamrock: "Get this elf off my back!" -someone throws him into a wall- saku:..... Kuro: "!!!" (Leaps at Saku) Hello Kitten Klaws!" saku: *blocks them with her sword*....how annoying. Kuro: (sliced) "Aah!" (Growls) mahiru: KURO!! *runs over to him* Shamrock: "...This tall one is down..." Hugh: (bat form to fly away) lavender: not bad sakun~ saku: shut your damn mouth. lavender: ?! what the hell got into you? saku:....retribution...for what you all did. ~Tale of the bamboo cutter~ -SLASH- -lavender is sliced in two- lavender: ah-..... Hugh: "!!!" Shamrock: "What on earth?! Why did you do that?!" saku: *picks up lavender's top half and throws it though the door* im....not pleased. Shamrock: "Neither are we, but that is against the young master's wishes..." lavender: *too shocked to even make a sound* Kuro: "...Insane..." saku: you misunderstood....im not pleased with you. that old man...he defeated me.....i want to make him...all of you pay. Shamrock: "...Higan?" saku: *grips the sword tighter* Shamrock: "!!! Then take it out on him, not us!" saku: i have...a plan in mind. Shamrock: 0-0 lavender: ah....... *SCREAMING* Shamrock: "!!!" belkia: HOLY SHIT! OI! OLD MAN WE COULD USE BACK UP PRONTO!! lavender: YOU FUCKING BITCH I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU!! Higan: (yawn) "What---?" belkia: HOW ARE YOU SLEEPING THROUGH THIS WE'RE UNDER ATTACK!! lavender: SAKU YOU C*NT I WILL FUCKING CLAW YOUR MOTHERFUCKIN EYES OUT FOR THIS!! Higan: "Well, see, last night, Lav did this thing with her tongue that sapped the energy all out of me--" (notices the battle...) ".. All right! Cat fight!" sakuya: NOW?! OF ALL TIMES?! SHE'S CUT IN HALF YOU ASS!! lavender: oh really? i didnt notice, except, oh i dunno. MY LOWER HALF IS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE HALLWAY! Higan: "...I have so many jokes to make, but first--" (summons flames) "While you're crazy hot, Saku, I am not afraid to fight a woman...So how about you surrender now?" saku: just die already. *charges at him* i have no intention of losing a second time... Higan: "Burn." -Flames explode at her, aimed for her eyes, chest, and limbs- saku: .... saku: *SCREAMS* d-damn! *burns on parts of her face* Higan: "...Such beautiful colors..." saku: *charging and slashing at him again* i refuse to lose. those who lose are weak... Higan: (pulls back his fist) Higan: --knees her-- "Right in the babymaker..." saku: !!! d-dammit.....*she looks out the window and smirks* right on time... Shamrock: "???" yumikage: yo. belkia: awwww shit. Shamrock: "You're with them?!" saku: not quite. yumikage: she just told us where you were. lavender: YOU'RE THE FUCKING WORST!! Higan: "Why do a thing like that? They'll hurt you, too--" Jun: "Take this!" (Knees Shamrock in the balls) Shamrock: >< yumikage: we made kind of a deal with her. she tells us where tsubaki is, and we let her live. fair enough. Higan: "...Yeah, no. You need to leave--" mahiru: !! Higan: "Be gone, while you still have legs on which to run..." yumikage: ....tch- damn, where the hell is tsurugi when you need him? Tsurugi: "GUYS!" (Calling from another room) "I can't find Tsubaki...just a plush doll he was dancing with..." mahiru: O-O;; misono: creepy. Hugh: "...Disgusting..." Shamrock: "We can obsess about Young Master's proclivities another time...Belkia! Attack!" belkia: *swords in hand* ALRIGHT STABBY TIME! >8D Tsurugi: "...Do I still get paid?" -in the woods- ray: good thing there's overcast today... Mr. Tsubaki: (giggling) "Get back here~" tsubaki: O-O;;;;;; Guildenstern: (pursuing Mr. Tsubaki...in only his boxers) "Get back here, you foolish vampire!" romina: -_-; (thinking: at least i have clothes on under the suit. and not just undies.) Mr. Tsubaki: (dodges) "Nice orca design on your undies, buddy! Now, where is my Blossom..." (sniff) "...I. Smell. You!" romina: AW HELL NAH! Mr. Tsubaki: "??? Move aside, you." romina: D8 tsubaki: O-O;;;;; *in the yellow whale suit* Mr. Tsubaki: "I have my beautiful flower to find..." (tries to walk by Romina towards Yellow Whale...) tsubaki: O-O;;;;;;;;;;;;;;; Mr Tsubaki: (approaches Yellow Whale..smiles) "I am ready to go home, with you." tsubaki: O____________O;;;; Mr. Tsubaki: "...Why did you pull me away from my family, Tsubaki? So that your friends could hurt them?" tsubaki:..... Mr. Tsubaki: "Was this all some ruse? Tsubaki...Don't hurt my family..." tsubaki:...*trembling* after you hurt mine? Mr. Tsubaki: "...I...didn't...Tsubaki, they aren't..." tsubaki: arent what? Mr. Tsubaki: "...They aren't your family, are they? They aren't someone for whom you gave up so much...to give them life..." tsubaki:.......even so, i want to protect them. Mr. Tsubaki: "...And I want to protect my family, as you do your own...So, we are at an impasse. What do we do?" -the phone rings again- Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *answers* "Yes?" belkia: shit got really bad...the brats left, but turns out izayoin sold us out to C3...we chased them off, but lavs hurt really bad, izayoin fled.... Mr. Tsubaki: "!!! I'm on my way!" *looks at Tsubaki* "...Did you send C3 after us?" tsubaki: C3? *confused* i dont...i didnt send them. Mr. Tsubaki: "...I know you didn't. I just wanted to hear you say it. I have to go..." tsubaki:.... -later- lavender:..... *healed, but asleep* Higan: "..." *sitting by her bed, holding her hand* lavender: mmn....ma....im sorry mama..... Higan: "??? Shh...It's okay..." lavender: ....*calming down a bit* Higan: "...I'm here. Not going anywhere. Not again." -elsewhere- Lawless: "Yo...Um...Is the Tsubaki girl back? What's going on?" romina: it's....complicated, to say the least. Lawless: "!!! What happened? Is she okay?!" romina: she's alive and well. the incident ended in stalemate... julian: wrath's subclass and guildenstern are still a bit worn out though... Guildenstern: (bandaged, without his whale suit, and wearing a shirt that said ‘oh whale’) -_-;; ray: on the plus side, casualties were kept to a minimum. Lawless: "...Which suggests there _were_ casualties?" ray: just two suits. Guildenstern: T_T "MY BABIES!" tsubaki: it's ok... *pat pat* Lawless: "...What about you, Tsubaki? How are you holding up?" tsubaki:...im ok...what about you? you kind of ran off... Lawless: "...I'm...conflicted. But I'm here now." tsubaki: *she nods* -a few days later- Mr. Tsubaki: "How are you, Lavender?" lavender: better...least im not dead, haha... Mr. Tsubaki: (smiles) "Good...Ready for a mission, or need a bit more rest?" lavender: still recovering, so im just gonna rest a bit. sakuya: we're gonna need a new base... Mr. Tsubaki: "I have an idea--" Shamrock: "No, sir, we are not moving in next door to your beloved." Mr. Tsubaki: D: lilac: w-where can we go then? Higan: "There are some deserted locations..." Shamrock: "Museums, hotels, mansions..." otogiri: hmmm... Hirano estate. an abandoned eastern style mansion whos residents suddenly left without a trace... Mr. Tsubaki: "Hmmm...Sounds rich, but it could use a flower theme name...I'll think of something after we move in. Shamrock, purchase it." Shamrock: 'It is abandoned, so not too difficult." belkia: it looks like the kinda place that has creepy little girls crawling out of the well. Higan: "Yeah, really...Hey, Lilac, you're shaking..." lilac: i-i-im ok... naho: its ok lila, sakuya and i will protect ya ^^ Mr. Tsubaki: "Such rumors are just superstition anyway." -elsewhere- Kid: "It's so sad removing the Christmas decorations each year..." stocking: yeah. Kid: *carefully placing ornaments into wrapping, then into storage* "...Do you think..." stocking: hmm? Kid: "...Sorry. I was just imagining future Christmases." *holds up an ornament: "Kiddo's First Christmas." It has a photo in it of Kid holding a zebra stuffed toy* stocking: awww. Kid: "Heh..." *wraps it carefully, places it into the box* "...You know, maybe we should have an ornament, together..." stocking: *blush* Kid: "Could always make one..." -elsewhere- Relan: "Thanks for inviting me to lunch..." shinra: it's not a problem. iris: ^^ Relan: (smiles at Iris) "How was your break, Iris?" iris: it was nice. sister's leg is getting better a little bit. Relan: "Yeah, I saw her post online. It's kind of you to visit her." ^^ -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: "Zzzz..." fang-hua: so that's what all happened, commander? Benimaru: (nods) "It is horrifying..." fang-hua: if i'd just been here, then- Benimaru: "No, it's not...I mean, you couldn't have known..." fang-hua: ..... Benimaru: (pats her hand) fang-hua:.....*she nods* Benimaru: "We will have to follow this evidence. I'm going to need your help." fang-hua: right. Benimaru: (smiles) "It's good to have you back..." fang-hua: glad to be back... Tsukiyo: (yawn) "Hey, why are there people in my--!!! Fang-Hua!!!” fang-hua: hey tsukiyo, im back. Tsukiyo: (GLOMP) fang-hua: haha.. ^^; Tsukiyo: "Did you miss me?" fang-hua: yeah, i missed all of you. -peeeeeeek- hikage + hinata: big sis kohana's back! *hug* Benimaru: (smiles) "That's sweet..." kirei: miss huo. its good to see you *she smiles* fang-hua: good to see you too, sister. Benimaru: "..." -/////- hikage + hinata: ... 83 Benimaru: "...Well, you'll be busy catching up. I'll start my patrol..." -elsewhere- PlushFix: (sharpening claws) hina: found ourselves some new recruits. PlushFix: "Cool, cool...How they look?" hina:....quiet. saku:..... PlushFix: "...Still hot, though." saku: *draws her sword at him* mimeca: *looks at akua* PlushFix: (flashes his claws) "I got blades, too..." -elsewhere- Kepuri: (drying her hair) nea: ahh, nice and refreshed~ Kepuri: "Yeah, we ladies needed a break..." chie: mmhmm. medea: -.- *swimming through the onsen* Kepuri: "So calming..." chie: it sure is, right toru, honey? *rubs her stomach* Kepuri: "...May I feel?" chie: i dont mind. Kepuri: (puts hand on her belly...) "!!! He kicked!" chie: *squeeees* Kepuri: "Medea! Want to feel the kick?" medea:....i'll pass thank you. Kepuri: (pouts) "Whatever...Nea?" nea: yeah? Kepuri: "Want to feel the baby kick?" nea: i guess... Kepuri: (squee...then goes into onsen with Medea) "What's up with you?" -elsewhere- Jacqueline: (sigh) "Ahhh..." kim: zzzzz.... Jacqueline: "..." (looks at Kim) ("She looks so peaceful...") kim: *sleepy tanuki noises* Jacqueline: (small laugh..."Cute...") -at the onsen- soul: *stirring awake*....what the? Lawless: "Zzzz..." soul: O-O;; (thinking: i have no idea how to feel about this...) Lawless: (sleep talking) "I missed you, my Juliet..." soul: O__________O;;; Lawless: (hand strokes Soul's chest) "Hmmm...Your breasts feel smaller..." soul: O/////////////////////O *SCREAMS INTERNALLY* Lawless: "Mmm...Let me take a look..." (reaches under Soul's shirt) soul: <____>;;; Lawless: (light kiss on Soul's chest...) "Wait...You never had a scar there..." soul: gnh- >///o;; Lawless: (wakes up) "...Soul? What the devil...?" soul: dude.....what the shit?...... O-O; why do you have an erection right now?! Lawless: "...Um..." soul: O-O;;;; Lawless: "...Cold shower?" soul: im good.......this incident never happened. Lawless: "...Okay. But if it did happen--" soul: dude. Lawless: "I'm just saying! We all get lonely now and then--" soul: .... Lawless: "...Yeah, maybe I need a cold shower. Excuse me..." *stands up* -elsewhere- Emine: -_-;;; "Shotaro, stop splashing water at me..." Shotaro: *splash splash splash* "Hee hee..." akaderu: *slumped in the water* what a drag... Tool: "Stop whining and just relax..." *dunks head under water, swimming* Yohei: *sipping tea* "Ahhhh~" Assi: *can't really see because he doesn't have his glasses on...* "Where's the soap?" Zuno: "..." *hands it to him* "Here." Assi: "Thanks!" -elsewhere- Black Star: *shudders* tsubaki: everything ok? Black Star: "Yeah, just a weird feeling I got...after..." tsubaki:....*she hugs him* Black Star: *hugs back* "I'm glad he...he didn't hurt you." tsubaki: *she smiles* Black Star: *lies his head against her chest...* "...You're brave." -at the shop- metsu: mikuni, package for you. Mikuni: "??? What d'ya think is in it?" metsu: i dont bother looking through mail that isnt mine...unlike certain _other_ people. *pokerface glare at johannes* Johannes: "..." *wearing a pair of boxers on his head that are labeled "Jeje's"* "...What?" Jeje: *removes the boxers from Johannes's head--and slugs him in the jaw* Mikuni: *opens the box* "...!!! A dollie!!!" metsu: *reading the note* 'dearest miku, i found this on a raid, and i know how much you love dollies, so i sent you this. plz send money, tsurugi.'....he also drew a kissy face on the letter... Mikuni: "..." *sigh* "What money? I spend it all on dolls--he knows that..." -elsewhere- Kid: *cuddle* stocking: hehe~ *circles her finger along his chest* Kid: *shudders excitedly* "I hope I haven't been too rough on you, with the new toys..." stocking: its fine, you know i like it rough~<3 Kid: "...Really, now?" *holds one of her wrists, massaging it* -at the hotel- Mr. Tsubaki: "Ready to move?" belkia: yeppers! naho: all set~ otogiri: have everything? lilac: *nods* ame: *nod* Shamrock: "Aye." Higan: "Here, let me help you, Lavender..." lavender: im good, im recovering, but im not completely helpless, haha. Higan: "Then maybe I just want to be close to you...cop a feel..." Sakuya: gross. -_-' Higan: -_-;;;; "Grow up." otogiri:.... anyway that should be everythi- Shamrock: "DON'T OPEN THAT BOX, BELKIA!" belkia: ??? *The box has items belonging to Mr. Tsubaki, as well as photos, illustrations, poems* belkia:....... o_o Shamrock: *closes box, grabs Belkia by the throat* "Not a word to young master, or your head will be shoved into a furnace!" belkia: *choked voice* ok ok! Shamrock: "Good." *releases Belkia onto the floor, picks up his box, and walks into the living room* "Ready to depart, young master~" Mr. Tsubaki: "Hmm...Where is Lilac?" lavender: hallway i think....he's been rather quiet lately....*concerned* Mr. Tsubaki: "...I'll get them..." *approaches Lilac in the hallway...* lilac:....*looking up, clutching his fox plushie* Mr. Tsubaki: "We're about ready to move..." lilac:....*nods and puts the plushie back into his backpack* Mr. Tsubaki: *offers a hand, smiles* "It'll be okay..." lilac:....o-ok.... Mr. Tsubaki: "You'll like your room." lilac:.... Mr. Tsubaki: "And you'll be in another neighborhood...Maybe make new friends there?" lilac:......*slight trembling* (saku: your friends.....they died because they were weak.) Mr. Tsubaki: "...Lilac? Did something happen?" lilac: i...im ok... Mr. Tsubaki: "...If something _did_ happen, I hope you will tell me..." -morning- soul: ....... sayaka: so what's our next step? Lawless: "Wouldn't mind finding Mr. Tsubaki's new location and take the fight to him..." mahiru: perhaps we should recruit mikuni? misono:........ Kuro: "He seems a bit...off." mahiru: but he seems to know a lot of stuff about servamps and such...he could be a useful ally. misono:.....*sigh* fine. but im not going to enjoy it. Lily: "...It may go better than expected...I hope." sayaka: i'll just hold down the fort ^^;;;; -and so- sayaka: *hiding in the coffin* why Q-Q mahiru: here it is. misono:... tetsu: *knocks on the door* sayaka: O___O;;;; metsu: come on in. -the group enters- misono:.... Jeje: *stares at Misono* misono: *cold chill* mahiru:....*AHEM* is mikuni in? metsu: oh, he's upstairs. *Faustus appears around the corner* Faustus: "HELLO!!!" misono: ACK! sayaka: O-O;;;;;;;;;;;; licht: the fuck? tetsu:....hi. Faustus: *looks at Tetsu for a moment* "...Damn, they are making them tall nowadays...Where is Teddy Bear?" tetsu:...there's some over there on the shelf. Faustus: "Huh? No, I mean your friend, Sayaka?" tetsu: oh. she's in the coffin. Faustus: "...Fun." sayaka: TETSU YOU ARENT SUPPOSED TO TELL HIM!! tetsu: hold on a sec. *he opens it up, and sayaka stumbles out onto the floor...on her face* sayaka:....ow Q.Q Faustus: "Rubber Ducky! Hang on, I'll get you bandages, an ice pack, and ointment!" *runs off* sayaka:....tetsu why? tetsu:....was i not supposed to say anything? licht:....(thinking:....what the hell is going on here?!) Lawless: *stares at Jeje* "..." Jeje: *stares back* Kuro: (playing with a ball of yarn) metsu:....*goes back to stocking shelves* tsubaki:...*notices the doll*.... O-O;;;;;; Black Star: "...Oh, fuck no, that ain't right..." Mikuni: *in his room, hosting a tea party* "I told you: three cupcakes is my limit!" misono:....*ACHOO!* stupid dust. Mikuni: *tenses* "I...recognize that sneeze..." sayaka: aww, you sneeze like a kitty. misono: i do not! shut up! >3< Mikuni: *peeks over the stairway...* misono: *tenses* (thinking: i feel a familiar presense. a presence i have not felt since....) Mikuni: "..." ("I can't talk to him...What would I even say--") *his hat falls off his hat, down the stairway* o_____o;;; misono: ...SEEMS HE'S NOT HERE! LETS JUST LEAVE! O-O; sayaka: but we just got he- -the hat landed on misono's head- misono: O-O;;; Mikuni: D: "MY HAT!" *covers his mouth* misono: oh goddammit... Mikuni: "...Um...Hello, brother. Brother's friend." misono:....mikuni. sayaka: hey mikuni. *wave* Mikuni: "...MISONO!!!!" *leaps over the bannister, arms out, to be caught by Misono* -due to misono's small stature, he got squished- misono: get....off...me.... Mikuni: "Oh...Sorry." *gets off him, picks him up* "...I thought you'd be taller." misono: T_T; sayaka: well, he is the younger brother... misono: no one asked you. sayaka: q.q Mikuni: "..." *takes back his hat...which is flattened* "So...Um...How are you?" misono: ....had some stuff go down in my life. but surviving... Johannes: *holding up bandages* "I'm back! Sayaka, why don't we give these two some privacy?" sayaka: i just remembered! i have work! later! *she opens the door.....its a blizzard* D8 ....(thinking: i am at the mercy of a cruel god.) Johannes: "...D'aw..." Mikuni: "...You...are here, Misono..." sayaka:....seems im stranded here now until the storm passes...... QwQ;; misono:...yeah.... metsu: shall i get you all something to drink? Kuro: "...Milk." Lily: "Tea~" Mikuni: "..." Johannes: "Soda! How about you, Wet Goose?" soul: O_O; sayaka:....some ramune if you have any QwQ Black Star: "Yo, one right here, too." Jeje: "Blood...I mean, water." metsu: i can get you blood if you want. *holds up syringe* mikuni, hold still. Mikuni: *pouts* "Fine...Just clean the spot first..." metsu: very well. -and so- tsubaki: that's basically what's been happening. Mikuni: *looks at Misono, then back at Tsubaki* "So...You think we can help?" mahiru: you guys seem to know a lot about vampires, so you might just be able to help us. sayaka: *trembling* soul: you ok sayaka? you've been on edge since we got here. sayaka: imokreally. Johannes: *leering at Soul* "So...You are one of Sayaka's friends, too, huh...?" soul: yeah, i guess i've known her since she started attending school at the academy. Johannes: *towers over Soul* "Are you treating her well~?" soul: of course, why do you ask O.O; Johannes: *smiling but creepy, angry voice* "Because if you ever hurt her, I will hunt you down and show you your own lower intestines~" soul: O_O; why would you care? sayaka: >__>;;;;; Johannes: "Just. Being. Cautious. You hear me?" Mikuni: -__-;;; "Someone, please hit him." metsu: *CHOP* stop that. sayaka: thank you metsu! Black Star: "...Man, I thought the people we hang around are weird..." soul: something seems familiar Mikuni: "...Misono?" misono: what? Mikuni: "...You know, don't you?" misono:........yeah. Mikuni: "...I am...I did something awful." misono:......if you didnt...then i-......t-thanks.....i guess... Mikuni: "...I am happy you are alive." misono:.....father...wants to see you. Mikuni: "...Oh. That is surprising." tsubaki: about this doll...*she holds it up* Mikuni: "..." *looks at the doll...then Tsubaki...* "Oh my God! Someone figured out how to turn dolls into flesh and blood humans?! Neato! Can you turn my Veronica doll into a flesh and blood human? Or my unicorn doll?" metsu: one of mikuni's former partners in C3 sent it to him. mahiru: EH?! Mikuni: *nods* "Yes--I think they got it on a mission?" Mikuni: "I think it was at a hotel?" tsubaki:....i think i'll purchase it. Black Star: o______o;;;; Jeje: "Good purchase." metsu: come downstairs, and i'll ring you up. tsubaki: thank you. Mikuni: "...When did Father expect me? I did receive an invitation from him..." misono: he will be heading to europe after the new year... Mikuni: "...I guess I better get there soon. Today?" tsubaki: there's so many dolls here... Lawless: *looking around at dolls* "No kidding...Jeez, who collects them all?" metsu: that would be mikuni. -_-; Lawless: "Man, expensive hobby. But a fool and his money are soon parted--" licht: how much for this one? *holds up a doll with angel wings* it's so adorable. Lawless: -____-;;;; "You damn nerd." tsubaki: do they all have names? Lawless: "I see some labels on them...'Angelica,' 'Beatrice'..." soul: 'Lilian', 'Christine', 'Emilia', 'Jeanette', 'Oph-'...oh.....oh shit. Lawless: "???" *spots it* "..." Q_______Q soul:...*comforting awkward hug* easy buddy. licht:.... Lawless: "...I-I-I...Is that...doll available?" licht: ...? Lawless: "May I buy that doll?" metsu: why do you ask? Lawless: "Sentimental value. Maybe I need a hobby, dress up dolls or something..." -elsewhere- Shotaro: "Man, Mana--you're really good at ping pong!" mana: *griiiins* Emine: *sipping milk* "Hmm...Never been to an onsen. It was nice. Too much time around naked people, though." -elsewhere- Kishiri: "So, when is the boss going to be off the crutches?" officer: soon hopefully...but at least im not getting stepped on, my spine cant take much more... Kishiri: "...Oh, don't even act like you didn't like that." -_-;;; officer: D8 Hibana: *walking on crutches towards them* "You! Officer! You still have paperwork not finished!!! Gabriella, release the dogs!" Kishiri: -____-;;; "Don't I deal with enough dogs..." -elsewhere- Relan: "That was a good meal--thanks!" iris: ^^ Relan: *stretches* "The Commander has been running us ragged, so this was a great break..." shinra: ah. Relan: "...Was it this hard for you, to do the basic physical training?" shinra: a little bit...did you want to train together sometime? Relan: *nods* "Training with people strong like those in the 8th would help..." *winks at Shinra and Iris* shinra: daww… *blush* iris: ^^ Relan: "How is everyone else at the brigade? Your commander okay?" shinra: yeah. he's doing well. Takehisa: *emerges from around the corner* "...Hide me..." shinra: !! Takehisa: *dives behind sofa* Relan: "...That sofa is not big enough for your tallness, sir..." iris: uhhh.... O-O; Takehisa: "I think I have upset Maki. HIDE ME." -elsewhere- PlushFix: *looks at Akua* "So, what's your story?" akua:....not much money...family were druggies....but i found salvation. *pulls up pant leg to show a marking of 3 eyes on their ankle* PlushFix: "...Huh. Didn't that weird M&M kid have that mark on his fancy mask?" akua: i felt there was some kind of link between him and the kishin....i wanted to think there was....the madness....numbed the pain. PlushFix: "Heh heh...Madness is kind of fun like that." akua: it...doesnt hurt anymore.... PlushFix: "Ha ha ha! That's good, then, right? Pain is no good--not unless you're into that kind of thing. But I don't feel pain now! Watch!" *slams his plush body against the wall, each time making a loud squeak* "See? No pain!" mimeca: *giggling motion* PlushFix: "See? Mimeca's laughing! So why don't you laugh, too, Emo Buddy?" -elsewhere- Konro: "And that's what has transpired, Fang-Hua." fang-hua: ...... Konro: "...I'm sorry. I know this is a lot to take in." fang-hua: ..im....just glad everyone is ok... Konro: *nods* "This...has been a difficult time, especially for Young Master." fang-hua:...is there anything i can do? Konro: "Just be there for him--that's all you can do." fang-hua: right. Konro: "...You care deeply for Benimaru, don't you?" fang-hua: of course i do. Konro: *nods* "Yes, that is obvious. And I know he cares for you as well." fang-hua:...*she smiles a bit* Konro: *pats her back* "Keep doing what you're doing. But always take care of yourself, first." fang-hua: right. Benimaru: *knocks* "May I enter?" fang-hua: !! oh, of course. Konro: "...I think I have to go on patrol..." *exits* Benimaru: "...Hello, Kohana." fang-hua: *ahem* commander. *she nods* Benimaru: *sits across from her* "...You okay?" fang-hua: yeah.....things have....really been hectic here, huh? Benimaru: *nods* "Frightening. I think people here will need some time to calm down. Opportunities to relax..." fang-hua: *she nods* Benimaru: "...Sorry. I was rambling. I just have no idea how to calm the divisiveness that has torn our community apart." fang-hua:.... Benimaru: "Kohana, when you are troubled, what are things you do to distract your mind?" -elsewhere- Patty: *half of her hair is dyed pink, half purple* Kid: *glare* kirika: *snickers* Patty: "What? I thought this hairstyle is very fashionable! Right, Takeru?" takeru: it's really colorful. Patty: "Hee hee..." *smooch* Kid: *growls, slowly pulls out an electric hair clipper...* stocking: easy kiddo. *hug* Kid: -\\\\\\- *small kitten growl* stocking: hehe~<3 Patty: *hugs Takeru* <3 -elsewhere- Shotaro: *yawn* "We all had a lot of fun at the baths, Mom..." setsuna: that's good. *rubbing his head* Shotaro: "Hee hee..." Emine: "You still lost to Mana in the game of pong-pinging." setsuna: you tried your best. Shotaro: "I know!" *huggy* Emine: *frowns* "In any case, that was a new experience, but now it is time to sleep. Good night, Shotaro...Mother." -elsewhere- Shamrock: *swipes finger along fireplace* "Hmm...Dusty." otogiri: it's surprisingly well intact...on the inside at least. Higan: "Will need to do some repairs on some areas. The chandelier could be refurbished." Mr. Tsubaki: *nods* belkia: we need to get some cable in here stat! Shamrock: "I will place that call..." Mr. Tsubaki: *looks around for Lilac* lilac: *asleep on one of the futons* Mr. Tsubaki: *smiles, pulls a blanket out and plays it down over Lilac* naho: is he gonna be ok? Mr. Tsubaki: *nods* "I have confidence Lilac will be fine." naho: ..... sakuya:..... Mr. Tsubaki: "...I think we could all use some sleep..." Higan: *looks at Lavender* lavender: yeah, good call. i've been feeling kind of out of it lately... Higan: "I already assembled your bed and put down the sheets. It should be comfortable for you." lavender: thanks. Mr. Tsubaki: "Which other rooms have their beds set up? Or sleeping bags?" otogiri: we got you a futon like you'd asked. belkia and sham have beds as well. ame also was given a room with a bed. Mr. Tsubaki: *claps his hands* "Yay, futon!" ame: *asleep* Mr. Tsubaki: "Turn in, all. We have a busy day in the morning for additional repairs...and to initiate the next step in my plan..." *sneer* -elsewhere- Black Star: *light kiss on Tsubaki's neck* tsubaki: >/////< Black Star: "S-Sorry. Too much?" tsubaki: i-its fine. Black Star: "...Hey..." *hugs her* "You okay?" tsubaki: yeah, you? Black Star: *nods* "I just...Um..." tsubaki: hmm? Black Star: "..." *closes his eyes, his lips leaning towards hers* tsubaki: *surprise, but kisses back* Black Star: *kisses her...his tongue passes along her bottom lip* tsubaki: a-ahh~! Black Star: *holds her close* "Too much?" tsubaki: just...still getting used to it... Black Star: *nods* "Okay. Let's take our time...Want to cuddle?" tsubaki: yeah. Black Star: *lies back in bed, hugging Tsubaki* "...I'm happy you're here." tsubaki: *she smiles and nuzzles into him* Black Star: *holds her* "...You've gotten more beautiful since I first met you. Taller..." tsubaki: you too... .////.' Black Star: .\\\\. "Y-Yeah...I've gotten bigger..." -elsewhere- misono: *asleep* Lily: *keeping an eye on Misono* mitsuki: how is he? Lily: "Recovering...This is so much to accept." mitsuki: .....he's a strong kid. Lily: "Very...I just did not see that..." mitsuki: ....sooo, has he been making friends? Lily: "Quite a number~ Close compatriots of varying temperaments that help him stretch as a person, to learn more about different people." mitsuki: that's good..... >->;; does he have any special someone's in his life? n-not that im prying or anything! j-just curious. Lily: "...Mitsuki, I am Lust itself. I can see through you~ And...Well, that would be telling, wouldn't it? I do think he has someone in mind..." mitsuki: oh really? Lily: "Yes, but it is complicated: she's already spoken for." mitsuki: oh. that's a bummer. Lily: *nods* "I don't know how to advise him..." mitsuki: .... Lily: "There was also another girl, as the Christmas party..." mitsuki: *perks up* Lily: "A girl named Shinoa. A little peculiar..." mitsuki: shinoa, eh? i think i heard the name... Lily: "Oh? She was at the dance. What do you know of her? I think her last name was Hiragi?" mitsuki: Hiragii! i hear the hiragi family is a really prestigious family in japan. if what i heard is true, they have strong connections to the IDPC Lily: "...Is that a bad thing?" mitsuki: i dont think so, but it is something i figured you might want to know. Lily: *nods* "Better to have this information now than be caught with my pants down...so to speak." mitsuki: -_-; Lily: *giggles* "Just a slip of the tongue...so to speak." mitsuki: hey! phrasing! Lily: "Sorry! When I'm on a roll, I just can't stop myself until I get off this kick!" -elsewhere- Kid: "Aaaaah..." stocking: *panting and shuddering* f-fuuuck... Kid: "You are so amazing..." *slaps her bottom* stocking: o-oh~! harder kiddo! Kid: "You asked for it~" *spank spank spank* stocking: ah~! that feels so good! Kid: "You know what else feels good..." *grabs her breast, pinches her nipple* stocking: ah! >/////o Kid: *turns her around, puts his mouth against her breast* "Mmmm..." -elsewhere- Takehisa: *tied in bandages, hanging by his ankles from the ceiling* tamaki:....*drinking her orange juice*...so anyway... Arthur: "...Difficulty sleeping, too?" tamaki: yeah. Arthur: "...Yeah. I...had some dreams." tamaki: mm... Arthur: "...Does OJ help you sleep?" tamaki: i was just thirsty. Arthur: "Ah..." *smirk* "I thought you'd prefer milk." tamaki: oh shush. -early morning- mahiru: happy birthday kuro. *gives him a scarf* Kuro: "...This will keep me warm. Thank you." mahiru: *he smiles* Lily: *holds up a ball of yarn* Kuro: -____- the mother: i got you this. *it's a t-shirt with an 8-bit link on it* i heard you like video games, so i thought this would work. Kuro: ._. "...Thank you so much." *small squee* soul:....oi, law, didnt you get him anything? Lawless: "...Yeah, I did...Let me just reach into my pocket..." *shoves his hand into his pocket* "Aaaaaand..." *pulls out his hand--giving the finger at Kuro* Kuro: -____- soul: -__-; Lawless: "BWA HA HA HA HA!!!" soul: (thinking: this guy is one tough egg to crack...) Lawless: "..." *sigh* "Fine." *tosses a 3DS Nintendo Awards card at Kuro* "Here, try not to choke on it." -elsewhere- Black Star: *washing his hair* "Awww..." tsubaki: *making breakfast* Black Star: *finishes in the shower, exits in towel* "All done in there!" tsubaki: good to know....*she smiles* Black Star: *sniffs* "Hmm...That breakfast smells GOOD!" *walks over, grabs a slice of bread* "Something to hold me over before I get dressed..." tsubaki: hehe~ Black Star: *leans over to grab some butter for his bread...* Black Star: *holds his towel, as he walks to his room* "You go shower, I'll dress and eat..." -elsewhere- Kid: *soft rub on her bottom* "I'm sorry..." stocking: *wince* its fine. im not dying. Kid: *small kiss on her bottom* "Let's get some ice..." stocking: nng...yeah. Kid: *puts on his robe* "I'll be back shortly..." *blows a kiss to her as he opens the door and exits* -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *hugging his pillow, sleep talking* "Why, yes, I do want to shop for new linens, my love..." sakuya: *couldnt sleep* Shamrock: -_-; "Belkia, stop spooning with me." belkia: *drooling* naho: *watching intently* lavender: *covering herself with the bedsheet* fuck, that was great. Higan: *relieved sigh* "Y-Yeah...I think you're back to 110 percent health..." *soft spank* lavender: ah~ *she smiles* thanks. i really needed that last night. Higan: "Same..." *strokes her cheek* "I needed something, too...To know you recovered..." lavender: t-thanks. 7///7 Higan: "..." *strokes down her cheek...to her chest* "...These are marvelous...A work of art...I would love to draw you like this..." -in another room- ame: *yaaawns and knocks on a door* lilac: *waking up* ??? ame: cant sleep. *lays on top of the futon* Mr. Tsubaki: *stretches on his bed...spots the full-size Tsubaki Nakatsukasa doll* -_-;;; "Why, Belkia?" *exits, walks into hallway, looks into Lilac and Ame's room...* "???" lilac: *not sure what to do* ame: zzzzz.... Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *waves at Lilac as he enters, whispers* "How about I take her to her bed? Or she can sleep in mind, since I'm awake anyway..." lilac: m-maybe her room... -in ame's room are a few crayon drawings. including a girl with a polka-dot dress and braids with the word 'me' written next to her- Mr. Tsubaki: *lays her in her bed, puts the sheets over her...sits by her bed, looking around the room* -there is drawings of the other subclass, as well as ame's parents- Mr. Tsubaki: *small laugh* ("She made my nose too big in that drawing...") -in one drawing is the whole group, plus her parents that says 'i wish mr soobaky will invite mommy and daddy to live with us. i miss them ): - Mr. Tsubaki: "..." TT_TT -elsewhere- uzuki: um, im not sure how to yell you this but...you're subclass is asleep in the washing machine. the mother: ...where is that? uzuki: come on. una: zzzzz... *asleep inside the washing machine* ray: ....no comment. uzuki: does she...usually fall asleep in weird places like this? the mother: this is nothing compared to other places we found her dozing off. ray: HEY GIL! WE FOUND HER! SHE WAS IN THE WASHING MACHINE! Gil: "AGAIN?!!!" *runs to the room* "Oh, darn it!" *opens the door...* una: zzzzzz =w= Gil: "She's all wet again!" ray: i'll get the towels. una: *cute kitty yaaaawn* oh..hey gil. Gil: -\\\\- "Hello...You were asleep in the washing machine. We have to get these wet clothes off of you." -chop- the mother: i'll get her into a change of clothes thank you -_-; Gil: o___o;;; "I didn't mean anything like that!" una: zzzzz..... Gil: "J-Just...Just get her changed, please." the mother: alright. -later- Hugh: -_-; "The washing machine is not a place for bathing, the drier is not a place for getting warm--AND WHO IS NOT CLEANING THE DISHES?!" mahiru: need us to help out? Hugh: "..." *gets on his hands and knees* "I'M BEGGING YOU! It's been so hard with these crazy people here!" Q~Q mahiru: ok then. una: zzzzz... *in a nice floral print dress* the mother: it was nice of your sister to lend her that dress. tetsu: no problem. Gil: o\\\\\o una: zzzzz *leaning against gil* Gil: *steam comes out of his ears* "G'aw..." ray: cute. Gil: "Ray...Help me! What do I do?" ray: just roll with it? i dont know. Gil: "...* repositions Una so her head rests on his lap* "???" una: zzzzz.... -elsewhere- Hibana: "I should be out of this cast soon...and when I do, I want a row of men on which to step." gabriella: understood! *salutes* Kishiri: Q~Q [texts Vivian: hibana wants to step on my back. help me] -elsewhere- belkia: we're gonna need an epic gift for tsubakyun's birthday. any ideas guys? Shamrock: "A complete set of encyclopedia!" Higan: "A sculpture in his honor!" naho: new sandals! sakuya: a less shitty attitude? belkia: let's kidnap that girl! >8D otogiri: .......*makes belkia slap himself* belkia: OW! that was mean girioto Q.Q Shamrock: "Hmm...Sandals are doable and useful. Now we need something a bit more expensive and unnecessary, and something he really wants." Higan: "...Kidnapping the young lady may not be a bad idea--" otogiri: O_O sakuya: D8 lavender: if it gets him to stop whining, then sure. otogiri: D:< Shamrock: "I protest this plan!!!" belkia: all in favor? *raises hand* lavender: im in. ame: *raises hand* Higan: *raises hand* belkia: those against it? *sakuya and otogiri raise their hands* Shamrock: *raises both hands* belkia: that's 3 against 4 then. lilac? lilac:.....uhhhhhhhh........... Shamrock: *intense glare at Lilac* Higan: "Come on, Lilac--you know Tsubaki needs some relief..." lilac:....*tearing up* c-can i be left out of this? naho: yeah, leave him alone, he's stressed enough!....im just gonna be neutral. Higan: *smirks at Shamrock* Shamrock: D:< belkia: two neutral, 3 saying no, and 4 saying yes. the i's have it! >8D Higan: "Alright...Then let's figure out how to get Tsubaki's beloved here...Maybe in a stripper cake..." otogiri: *CHOP* too far. naho: gross, old man. Higan: Q_Q Shamrock: "...This will blow up in our faces..." belkia: never know until ya try! Shamrock: "Hmph...How do you even propose luring her? Kidnapping? How?" belkia:....hmmmmm....how about having ame bring her here? Higan: "Sure! Ame, you can do that, right?" ame: ok! whaddo i have to do? Higan: "How about you tell her that you are lost and need help getting home?" ame: ok. Higan: *smiles* "Good." lavender: i'll keep an eye on her. Shamrock: *grumble* *grumble* -elsewhere- Takehisa: *cut down, but still tied up* "...I said I was sorry." maki:...*sigh* its fine. Takehisa: "I simply meant that--" Akitaru: "Maki! Good to see you up and awake! I'll untie Takehisa, while you lead today's morning exercise routine, 'kay? Great!" *picks up Takehisa, runs* Takehisa: o_o; -elsewhere- Shinoda: *offers a bowl of ice cream to Nea* nea: *nom nom* mmmm~! ^^ Shinoda: "Oh, Medea!" medea: yes? Shotaro: *holds up a crude drawing of her* "For you!" medea: um....thank you. i suppose. Shotaro: "Hee hee..." -elsewhere- Kid: "Feel better?" stocking: much~ Kid: "That's good. You always heal so quickly..." stocking: *she smiles* Kid: "How may I make it up to you?" stocking: however you feel~ Kid: "Maybe candy...Or a bath? Or..." -elsewhere- Medusa: "Easy there...I'm here, it's okay." neian: *sniffle* Medusa: "You'll feel better...Just need to finish your medicine and get some more sleep..." neian: *hic* Medusa: "Shh..." *starts singing..." neian: ......zzzzz Medusa: *smiles, kisses her forehead, places her back into her crib* Ponera: Q~Q -elsewhere- Wes: *hands coffee to Liz* "Just how you like it..." liz: thanks. Wes: "Feel better?" liz: yeah. Wes: "That's good...About the New Year..." liz: hmm? Wes: *hugs her, pulls a blanket over them* "What would you like to do? Any place you want to travel to?" -elsewhere- tsubaki: *out on a walk* ???: *in a baseball cap, collar pulled up, whispers into collar* "Target spotted." ame: *sniff sniff* tsubaki: ?? ame: bi-big sis...where did you go? tsubaki: aww, its ok. i'll help you find your sister. ame: r-really? ???: *watching, smirks...* *stands up, approaching near Ame and Tsubaki...* lavender: ah! there you are! jeez, you really shouldnt wander off like that kiddo. ame: sorry. lavender: *kneels down and pats her head* its fine...*looks at tsubaki* i hope my kid sister wasnt too much trouble for you. tsubaki: not at all. lavender: *she nods* say, how about you come over for lunch? tsubaki: i wouldnt want to intrude- lavender: its fine, really. ???: *stays back, watching from afar...* < > Let Lavender lead her < > Intervene to knock out Tsubaki < > Kidnap Tsubaki themselves ame: pleeeease? ???: *observing, overhearing...* tsubaki: well, i guess i wouldnt mind. ???: *follows Tsubaki, Lavender, and Ame* -they arrive at the front of the estate- tsubaki:.....(thinking: something seems....off.) Shamrock: *inside, in disguise, wearing shades, a wig, a modified butler's outfit...and a fake goatee* lavender: we're home~! ame: we're back! Shamrock: *effected voice* "Welcome. It is good to have you home." tsubaki: it's....very clean on the inside. Shamrock: "Oh, a guest." *forced smile* "Thank you for the compliment. I do try to keep things nice and tidy..." tsubaki: may i sit down? *leaving her shoes at the door* Shamrock: "Of course...Let me lead you to the den..." tsubaki: *follows* -in another room- belkia: the eagle is in the nest! tsubakyun's gonna be so happy! otogiri: i think he's out right now...said something about 'adding a few more subclass' *Knock knock* belkia: ?? Higan: *through door* "It's me. Open up." belkia: hey higano! how'd it go? Higan: *smiles* "Tsubaki's gift has arrived~" otogiri:..... sakuya: now what? Higan: "Well, to best present her to Tsubaki, I have some wonderful outfits she could try on--" otogiri: *chop* -_-; naho: gross, old man. Higan: "Ow! Jeez...Fine. (Then you can keep the nurse outfit...) So, we just keep her busy until Tsubaki returns..." lavender: i think i might have an idea~ Higan: o\\\\o "Oh?" lavender: given his fondness for eastern style things, we could have her in a white yukata that i got. i even got a red sash to go with it. Higan: o\\\\\\\\\\\\o "...If I were Tsubaki, I'd love that." otogiri: at least it's something modest. -_-; Higan: "Well, I guess we should get to work fitting her for it--" otogiri: *CHOP* leave that to me and lavender. -_-# Higan: *head slammed against the floor* “So young….so cruel.” -outside- tsubaki: ...... Shamrock: "More tea, ma'am?" tsubaki: sure. i really hope im not intruding at all. Shamrock: "Not at all. We enjoy any company we receive." *still forced smile* tsubaki: ^^; *drinking her tea* i hope this isnt rude, but the estate looked....kind of abandoned. im amazed people are living here still. Shamrock: "Oh, yes: this old home has seen better days. But we have been at work with refurbishing." tsubaki: ah....so the estate's owner.... Shamrock: "Very busy, I'm afraid, but they will be returning shortly--" tsubaki: ah.....*her head is growing fuzzy* (thinking: my head....i...!!!) *she tries to get up and exit, but falls to the floor* w-what? Shamrock: "Hmph. Took long enough..." tsubaki: *tries to send a distress text* Shamrock: "Stop that..." *kicks the phone away from her hand* "Can't have you do that..." tsubaki: ah.... *she passes out* Shamrock: "Hmph...Better if we just eliminated her." belkia: you know we cant do that. Shamrock: "Yes, yes..." Shamrock: "So, what happens now?" otogiri: *lifts her up with puppet strings and brings her to another room* .....im sorry for this... lavender: we'll handle things from here~ otogiri: *locks the door behind her* no. peeping. Shamrock: "???" Higan: *still bleeding in the other room* "Damn it..." -elsewhere- Black Star: "?!!!!" mahiru: !!! soul: shit, this is bad! misono: any idea where she is? Kuro: "GPS coordinates?" misono:....how do i even do that? Kuro: *sighs* "I'm not a hacker--I'm just tossing out ideas. We'd need someone who knows tech better, and my knowledge extends to homebrew video game systems..." licht: maybe check the school's computer lab? Black Star: "Something there has to be able to find her! And someone who can read souls, too! Come on! Let's go!" -later, elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: "...How do you feel?" ame's father: we-we did what you asked, now please...just tell us our daughter is ok! Mr. Tsubaki: "Shh...Not so loud. I don't like loudness...She's fine, I assure you..." ame's mother: ...... Mr. Tsubaki: "Given her...current condition, she is not exactly in a position to be out and about." ame's mother: .....*trembling* Mr. Tsubaki: "People don't take kindly to...my kind. Her best bet is to remain under my protection." ame's mother: then...can we at least see her? i just...want to see my baby again...please... Mr. Tsubaki: "..." Mr. Tsubaki: "I could have you visit us, but we need time to keep people from locating us. I know it is difficult, to want to see your child again...Could you please wait just two more days?" ame's father:....if she gets hurt- Mr. Tsubaki: "She will not: I give you my word." -elsewhere- ???: *texting* [location found. looks like they lured someone inside. seen her around before] tsuyuki: .... [any further details?] ???: [no idea how many persons inside. quiet from out here. the girl hasn't left the house yet--she may already be dead] tsuyuki:.... [keep an eye on things. i have my doubts tsubaki would kill her] ???: [ok] tsuyuki: [C3 has her as a 'POI' for a reason.] ???: [why exactly?] tsuyuki: [seems tsubaki has taken a liking to this girl.] ???: [...gross] tsuyuki: [she may be our key to containing him.] ???: [yeah, can only hope. alright. i'll text the address. want pics of building?] -elsewhere- Black Star: "WHERE IS SHE?!!!!" students: *staring at him* Black Star: "...WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT?! IF YOU'RE SOMEONE WHO CAN SENSE SOULS OR HACK A CELL PHONE, GET YOUR ASS OVER HERE! THE REST OF YOU, GET MOVING BEFORE I SMASH MY FIST THROUGH YOUR FACE!" kyouko: what the hell has gotten into you? madoka: ??? Black Star: "Tsubaki is in trouble--because of those goddamn vampires!" madoka: !! kyouko: vampires? Black Star: "Yeah! Real stupid but dangerous ones! And we can't find where they took Tsubaki!" kyouko: so what do you want _us_ to do? Black Star: *clutches Kyouko by the shoulders* "Can you find her soul?! Or hack a GPS phone?! OR DO SOMETHING USEFUL?!!!" kyouko: first off, GET OFFA ME! second, i heard rumors of a genius who spends her time in the metal shop classroom. Black Star: *picks Kyouko up over his head* "LEAD THE WAY TO THIS NERD!" kyouko: PUTMEDOWN!! DX< -elsewhere- Shamrock: "Hurry--Young Master will be back soon!" belkia: the display is set up. nice! got your gifts ready everyone? we save the big one for last! sakuya: his birthday isnt even until tomorrow. belkia:...every party needs a pooper thats why they invited yoooou~! Shamrock: -_-;;;; "I'd say this party has more than one pooper--" Higan: "HA HA HA! You called yourself 'sh*t'!" Shamrock: >_< otogiri: here he comes. *The door opens, as Mr. Tsubaki enters the foyer and locks the front door behind him* Mr. Tsubaki: "Hmph...Shamrock isn't here to tend to me upon entering..." Shamrock: D: lavender: *snickering* Mr. Tsubaki: "???" *hears Lavender, but can't identify the sound* "Hello? Is anyone home?" (Slight panic, as he remember Ame...) belkia: SURPRISE!!! Mr. Tsubaki: "???? What?! What happened?! Is everyone okay?!! Lilac? Ame?" group: HAPPY BIRTHDAY! otogiri: even if it's a day early. Mr. Tsubaki: "...Oh." *smiles* "Well, that is a surprise, to have a birthday party a day early. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!" -elsewhere- mei: just a little more aaaaand. there we go! should be easy to track her location. but since this an emergency tracker, it's only going to last 24 hours. Black Star: "Then I'll get it done in less than a day! Thanks! Now, to find where those fuckers took Tsubaki!" mei: good luck! -elsewhere- belkia: and now, the megalodon gift! the creame of the crop! the- sakuya: get on with it! Mr. Tsubaki: *face full of cake* "Huh?" -thud- belkia: what wazzat? -in the room- tsubaki: *trying to undo the ribbons binding her wrists and ankles* come on...come ooon... Mr. Tsubaki: "...Um...You said there was a megalodon gift. Where is it?" belkia: it should be in there. *points to the room* Mr. Tsubaki: "??? Um, okay?" *gets up, starts walking towards the room...* Mr. Tsubaki: *opens the door* tsubaki: !!!! Mr. Tsubaki: "!!!" *voice grows quiet, shocked* "...Tsubaki?" tsubaki: *paralyzed with fear* Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *looks out into the hallway, smiles widely* "Could I have all of my subclasses line up? I would like to thank you for this most gracious gift~" belkia: no probs~! lav and ame lured her here! Mr. Tsubaki: *smiles* "Really? How interesting..." *lines them up...then has Ame and Lilac take a step back* "Then let me show you my thanks..." *Mr. Tsubaki pulls back his hand, and does a long slap across all of their faces (except Ame and Lilac) in one fluid motion* sakuya: DX belkia: OW! tsubaki: WHAT THE FUCK?! otogiri: that was warrented. Shamrock: Q~Q "Young Master! I-I didn't approve of this! I voted against it!" Higan: *holding his cheek* "Ow...I now wear this red mark on my face..." Mr. Tsubaki: *smiles at Lilac and Ame* "Lilac, please take Ame to play in her room for a bit, please~" lilac: uh, o-ok. ame: ok! *Once Lilac and Ame leave...* Mr. Tsubaki: *glaring at his family, pointing behind him to Tsubaki* "I did not ask you to kidnap her. I did not want her harmed. And what is worse, you could have endangered us! You could have hurt Ame! What do you have to say in defense of this insanely stupid action?!" lavender:....oops. sakuya: shit. belkia: Q-Q; Shamrock: *shudders* Higan: "Oh..." otogiri:...im sorry. Mr. Tsubaki: "Yes. 'Oh.'" *pinches the brow of his nose* "Okay. Step one, we untie Tsubaki. Step two...Um...I have no idea what Step Two is." otogiri: right away. Mr. Tsubaki: *looks as Tsubaki is untied* "...You have no reason to believe I had nothing to do with this..." tsubaki:...... Mr. Tsubaki: "...When we let you go, you will inform others of our location, won't you?" tsubaki:........do you want me to tell them? Mr. Tsubaki: "No. We are vampires. There are people who would rather see us dead. And Ame..." tsubaki:....then i wont say anything. Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *nods* "I believe you." *looks to the others* "We are letting her go." tsubaki: i wont lie, you've done terrible, terrible things.....but i dont think you're completely evil. you or your family. Mr. Tsubaki: *ashamed...fox ears pop up on his head, folding down, like an embarrassed dog* "I have...but...I didn't do this to you. Did they...hurt you?" lavender: otogiri and i changed her clothes, and sham drugged her, but that's all we did. Mr. Tsubaki: "DRUGGED HER?! ..." o\\\\\o "Changed her?" *finally notices Tsubaki's outfit...slight nosebleed* Shamrock: *tries to run away* tsubaki:.... *flustered* Mr. Tsubaki: "...Um, well, let her change back into her clothes..." o\\\\o *still standing, not leaving the room...* tsubaki: *takes her clothes* i'll....change at home. thanks. 7///7; Mr. Tsubaki: "W-We don't want to inconvenience you..." *reaches an arm out--to grab the escaping Shamrock by the neck* "And Shamrock owes you an apology. Would you like to beat it out of him?" *holds up a baseball bat* "It is my birthday party--he can be our pinata..." Shamrock: *choked* tsubaki: n-no thanks. i think since its the new year tomorrow, we should start fresh. so for that reason, i'll pardon everything that happened today. lavender: for real? tsubaki: *she smiles and nods* Mr. Tsubaki: o\\\\\o "YOU ARE AN ANGEL!" *drops Shamrock to the floor, gets on his knees, bowing to Tsubaki* "Thank you!" Shamrock: *wheezing from being choked* tsubaki: ^^; Mr. Tsubaki: *kisses her feet* tsubaki: ./////.; Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *backs up, stands* "S-Sorry. I was groveling--I got carried away..." tsubaki: ^^; Mr. Tsubaki: *ahem* "W-We will, um, step back and let you exit...Goodbye, Tsubaki." *picks up Shamrock by the collars, leads the subclasses away to the second floor...* tsubaki:....!! wait....i know it's not much but. *she gives him a scarf* happy birthday. Mr. Tsubaki: o\\\\\\o "...I...don't know what to say..." tsubaki: *she smiles and exits* -Elsewhere- Black Star: "A-Are you sure you're okay?" tsubaki: *she nods* it went better than expected. Black Star: "...Given how bad I expected things would go, that's not exactly reassuring." tsubaki: ...im here now, huh? Black Star: "..." *nods* tsubaki: *she hugs him* Black Star: *hugs back* "...I'm getting worried." tsubaki:....i know. -elsewhere- naho: Q.Q Mr. Tsubaki: *wearing the red scarf* "..." *hugs Naho* naho: eh? Mr. Tsubaki: "I am still upset with what you all did..." *pulls back, smiles* "But I cannot be upset with my family." naho:.... Q_Q belkia: awwww. Mr. Tsubaki: *glares at Belkia* "You, however, could use some time to calm down...What were you thinking?" sakuya:... (thinking: ever since she gave him that scarf, he's had a flowery aura...) belkia: GAME TI-......we dont have a TV.... Mr. Tsubaki: -____-;;; "Then perhaps you all should have chipped in to buy a television rather than KIDNAPPING MY BELOVED AND DRUGGING HER!" *sniffs his scarf* "Aw~" belkia: OwO;;;;; Shamrock: *reviewing paperwork* "We can buy a new television tomorrow..." *looks nervously at Mr. Tsubaki* Mr. Tsubaki: *frowns at Shamrock* "...I should have Naho punish you." Shamrock: o___o;;; naho:...... me? owo; Mr. Tsubaki: "Any ideas in mind?" naho: i have no idea. *muttering* if it's with you he'd be really submissive but he looks like he'd be hard dom with anyone else and i've seen his reading habits so i have no idea what i should do he'd probably do really intense things to a cute girl like me *mutter mutter* sakuya:........ (thinking: how can such an innocent looking face have such an x-rated mind?) Mr. Tsubaki: *nods* "Yes, submissive to me..." Mr. Tsubaki: "Hmm...You already have video of him and me...Anything else you wanted?" naho: eh? hmmmmmmmm... i dunno~ Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *whispers* "Are you interested in intense things with Shamrock?" naho: eh? OwO;;;; sakuya: *mortified* otogiri: *judgmental look* Shamrock: D: Mr. Tsubaki: "...What? I am asking the question, to be direct..." naho: owo............ OwO............ O//////////w//////////O *vibrating* lavender:...i think you broke her. Mr. Tsubaki: "Hmm...Indeed. I'll put her to bed." Shamrock: D: D: D: D: Mr. Tsubaki: -_-; "Not like that..." belkia:...sham...did you need to 'vent' again? Shamrock: *meek nod* Mr. Tsubaki: *sets Naho in bed* "Will you be okay?" naho: O///////w///////O belkia: same place? lavender: dont go breaking peoples legs this time! Higan: -_-;;;; "How about we _not_ take Shamrock out into public again and just get him a video?" Mr. Tsubaki: "...Naho, talk to me. This isn't appropriate to keep it bottled in." naho: *blink blink* what? belkia: yeesh.....or should we just bring someone here then eat them? Mr. Tsubaki: "You are a young woman, with sexual desires. And bottling them up is not healthy." Shamrock: *stomach growls* o\\\\\o "...I think Mr. Tsubaki is already on edge. Would he want us to?" naho: *flustered* i never really thought about my own love life..... Mr. Tsubaki: "Well, it doesn't have to be _love_. But sex is helpful for some people--" belkia: HEY TSUBAKYUN! CAN WE CALL SHAM A PROSTITUTE? Mr. Tsubaki: *hears the yell* -_-;;;; "...Naho? What do you think? Sham deserves some punishment, and I'm...just not in the mood to kill a random human right now." naho: but he broke someone in half last time! >^< Mr. Tsubaki: *sighs* "Good point..." *calls back* "No, Belkia! He can deal with simply a porno and pig's blood!" *looks at Naho* "..." *lies beside her in bed* naho: !!!! i-i cant do that with you! i-i'd just be weird! Mr. Tsubaki: "Okay...That is what I wanted to hear. But it that is the case, why is that weird but not you filming me?" naho: O///w///O;;; ummm.... sakuya: you realize she's a textbook fujoshi, right? naho: WHAT HE SAID! Mr. Tsubaki: "...What's that?" sakuya: it means she likes to see two guys doing it. -_-; Mr. Tsubaki: "...That can work, Naho, but not without trust. And you haven't earned that when you spy on people." naho:.....*teary eyed* im sorry....am i a bad person? Mr. Tsubaki: "..." *hugs her* "I forgive you...but I think you need to apologize to Shamrock." naho: ok...*knock knock* sham? c-may i come in? Shamrock: "Yes, what is it, Naho?" naho:...im sorry for filming you guys. Q.Q Shamrock: "..." *nods* "I am happy to finally hear you say that directly. Thank you." naho:...i just wanted you to be happy.... Shamrock: "...You are still young, and may not realize that you may fail at making someone happy if you embarrass them. How would you have felt in my situation?" naho: ........Q~Q Shamrock: "...The look on your face says it all." *sigh* "Naho, don't you think you need a more healthy outlet? I mean, even reading porn would be better..." naho:...do yaoi doujins count? Shamrock: "Yes, they do." naho: ok ^^ Shamrock: "Just...Just don't spy on me anymore, please?" naho: i'll behave. Shamrock: *nods* Mr. Tsubaki: *overhearing, smiles* Shamrock: "...What was that thing you were muttering earlier?" naho: OwO;;;; what? Shamrock: "What. Were. You. Muttering?" naho: *sweats* Shamrock: "..." -she tells him- Shamrock: "...Really?" naho: .////w////.;;; Shamrock: "...May I ask you two personal questions?" naho: O.O what? Shamrock: "First, when did you last masturbate?" naho: >//////>;;; Shamrock: "You violated my privacy, so I asked you a question..." naho:....i dont know. .////.; Shamrock: *nods* "And my second question...are you a virgin?" naho: O//////////////O y....yeah. .//////////.;;;; Shamrock: "...If you could have that fantasy of yours made a reality--what you muttered about 'intense things'...Would you want me to do that to you?" naho: O/////////////////O i-id probably break in half! Shamrock: "...I promise, I would be gentle. I could use a toy instead..." Shamrock: "...So..." naho: well....you swear you wont break my legs? Shamrock: *hand over his heart* "I promise, I will not break your legs, or any part of you..." *small smirk* "Well, except maybe your hymen." naho: .////////.;; Shamrock: *walks to the door, locks it...* "...You have seen me naked, so I think turnabout is fair play...Please, remove your clothes..." naho: *gulps and strips down* Shamrock: *smirk* "My, my..." *gets on his knees, staring at her panties* "Those are quite cute..." naho: *flustered* Shamrock: "...Little bunny rabbit..." *kisses lightly on her hip, his hand gently resting on her leg* naho: *squeak* >/////<;; Shamrock: "Heh heh...You make adorable noises, you know that?" *kisses up her side until he reaches just under her bra...small lick where her bra meets her skin* naho: >///////////<; Shamrock: "Does this feel alright?" naho: f-feels weird.... 7////7;; Shamrock: "...Would you feel more comfortable if you weren't the only one in their underwear?" *starts unbuttoning his shirt* naho: are you...ok with this? what about mr tsubaki? Shamrock: "Mr. Tsubaki is not here right now...and I do not mind trying a different experience..." *lays a finger on her chin* "...You are beautiful." naho: >////< nu-uh, im cute, dangit! Shamrock: *lifts her chin up...* "...You indeed are cute..." *closes his eye, leans towards her face...* naho: *biting her lip* Shamrock: *his lips meet hers, just lightly brushing along her upper lip and teeth...* naho: *her breath is caught in her throat* >/////<;; Shamrock: "...Was that your first kiss?" naho:.....*she looks down and nods, embarrassed* Shamrock: "...Oh...It felt nice. You have very soft lips." naho:.....*she doesnt say anything* Shamrock: "Naho...Is this okay?" naho: ... *whimpering* t-this is all wrong...this isnt...how i wanted it to be... Shamrock: "!!! Oh, Naho...I'm sorry." *tentative hug* naho: im so stupid....i was about to give myself to someone much older than me....it wouldnt be right....i wanted it...to be with someone who honestly cared about me.. Shamrock: *nods* "That is for the best...Let's just forget this, okay?" naho: o-ok....*hic* Shamrock: *rubs her back* "It's okay..." *drapes his shirt around her shoulders* naho: *sniffle* Shamrock: *seats her on edge of his bed, sitting with her and a box of tissues to let her let it all out* -she just whimpers- Shamrock: "It's going to be okay, Naho...You'll find the right time, with the right person..." naho: b-but...what if i dont? Shamrock: "..." *smile* "Then you'll be okay. Because that is okay." naho: *hic* Shamrock: "...I'm sorry." -elsewhere- Kid: *shudders* stocking: mmmmn~ that was great... Kid: *smiles* "Y-Yeah..." stocking: hehe~ happy new year kiddo. Kid: *smiles* "Happy new year, love...We brought it in with a bang..." stocking: yeah, hehe ^^ Kid: *strokes her side* "I know one thing that could make this better..." stocking: oh~? Kid: *reaches under the bed...and a rush of cold air is felt* "I put a small icebox under here..." *pulls out two Popsicles* stocking: ooh. thanks! *nom* ^^ Kid: *licks his* "Mmmmm~" -morning- ~BEGINNING OF Y5~

#death city days

[zoe-oneesama]

Serving up some LOOKS! I love Mylene's Ivan sweatshirt! Would you be willing to talk about what sort of style elements you use for each character? (If you already have and I haven't found it, please ignore the question, that's on me)

I mostly did this for Mendeleiev’s class back when Punch was starting Leave for Mendeleiev, and I did a small run down for how the Main 5 fashion will change in Scarlet Lady, but not Bustier’s class sooooo:

Marinette -[I’m copy/pasting from an earlier ask]- When she likes a color, she sticks with it. She has a versatile wardrobe, but pink must always be present. She has the hardest to nail style because she experiments all the time, but no matter what she doesn’t feel comfortable unless she has an outer layer. Summer, Winter, Shorts, Pants, she needs to the comfort of a jacket - for Tikki to hide in when her purse isn’t appropriate.

Adrien -[Also C/P]- Basic B*tch. He thinks he’s fancier than he is. Oh sure, his clothes are well tailored to him and fit well, but they’re basic as hell. Gabriel isn’t as “innovative” as he thinks he is. Most of his clothes have the Gabriel logo and he sticks to the brand…because Adrien has no fashion sense whatsoever. Oh, he knows in theory what works and can put an outfit together, but he doesn’t want to. If it were up to him, he’d wear tshirts with physics puns and cat themed jackets. But alas, when one is an icon…

Alya -[C/P]- Mom Vibes. Fashion is not her priority. She knows enough to do good for her figure, but otherwise can’t really be bothered. Flannels and jeans in varying heights and a snappy tshirt are all she needs. But she is drawn to things that remind her at least of superheroes or superpowers. Her ridiculous high tops with the spiky tongue? She thinks it makes her look fast. She’s also the one who’s going to embarrass Marinette by wearing trendy but “garbage” fashion: fanny packs, Jellies, ugs with sweatpants. Dammit Alya, you’re a beautiful human being, do you mind NOT dressing like a hobo on vacation?! (Secretly her favorite outfits are from Martinique, but she saves them for special occasions).

Nino -[C/P]- Precious trash goblin. Wash your shirts and the neckline won’t be so worn out! He likes graphic tees with his favorite bands and DJs logos on them (he’s partial to ones without the name of the band or DJ so he can find other fans) and prefers things to be loose. He’s also drawn to colors and he’s super chill when his “garbage” girlfriend rolls up to a date looking like she’s going to an amusement part with her four kids, because it means she can’t dump on him for not looking “put together” (she would never!). He’ll try to dress up every now and then for a fancier date or when Adrien manages to snag him a spot at an event with him, but it’s pretty clear he’s uncomfortable without his hat and headphones. He has a few Moroccan outfits that he brings out in the Summer.

Chloe - Expensive Fashion Forward Chic. She made a staple out of shaming anyone else who dared to wear her favorite color yellow over the years. She was extremely smug about being the first in her grade to experiment with makeup that she never bothered to get good at it. Her clothes are expensive with just a smidge of impractical - only someone with cash to burn would constantly wear white pants! She’s also the kind of person to put off dressing for the cold as long as she can- if she puts on all these jackets and layers, how will these peasants see my brand name clothes underneath?! A lot of her fashion decisions are based on long forgotten advice from her mother - gold over silver jewelry, always have something on your head, brand or nothing. She’ll only abandon a well worn trend if her mother directly contradicts it.

Sabrina - Nerdy, geeky, almost like she’s wearing a uniform. She’s preparing to be Chloe’s assistant best friend for life so she has to look the part. She’s long abandoned any hope of shining next to Chloe, so being flashy and showy is out of the question. Luckily, Chloe isn’t drawn to patterns, so that’s a field of fashion that Sabrina can claim for her own. Doesn’t matter where it is, something she’s wearing needs to have a pattern. Leggings are her favorite accessory and she’s taken to collecting Chat Noir merch (though it’s less out of admiration for the hero himself and more for her “role” with Chloe. It reminds her of the rare times when Chloe acts like they’re friends.)

Mylene - Bohemian, and a touch artsy. Peace is important to her and her vibe reflects that. She’s not super up for showing a lot of skin, but neither are a lot of girls in her class. She leans towards a muted color palette so that her hair doesn’t clash, though she usually tries to match one piece of clothing to some color in her hair. Her accessories are a bit childish and kitchy, like her monster head bead, and she has a huge collection of hair accessories, like bandannas and headbands. She has a lot of different passions with various levels of seriousness, so she’ll come to Marinette for advice on how to use her wardrobe to fit the level of professionalism she wants.

Alix - Sporty but on the lazier side. Fashion is such an anti priority. She’s the one Marinette will go to for her more out there ideas because she has no recoil to pants made of buckles or shapeless over shirts, but that’s as far as it goes. Her clothes are made to be weather resistant and easy to slip on (and so that her dad won’t be pissed if she wipes out and rips something). If it were up to her, she’d just shop out of thrift stores and pick out all the color blocked 80s windbreakers, but when your whole squad is held together by a fashion designer, you can only get away with so much. Her nicest clothes are made by Marinette for her professional races and competitions and her favorites have nods to Egypt mythology and history.

Ivan - Punk but like…beginners guide to punk. Let’s be honest, when you’re built like a brick house, shopping is hard - or at least not that much fun. Ditto when you’re a dude that just…doesn’t particularly care. Ivan has a bunch of cargo pants because they fit, they’re grungy, and they’re practical. SO MANY POCKETS!!! Beyond that, like Nino, he prefers to wear band shirts of his favorite groups. His hiking boots are the nicest things he owns and he has a few bracelets that he only brings out when he’s “dressing up”. The most colorful thing he owns is a hoodie/pants set from the Cartoon Monster Show that Mylene’s hair bead is modeled after.

Kim - Sporty and Serious. Sweatpants and running shoes. That’s the make of his wardrobe. After all, you need to be able to challenge anyone to a race at ANY TIME!! Dressing up for him means putting on a pair of jeans, and he’s pretty much always under dressed but also completely oblivious to the fact. Red is his favorite color and he’s partial to that one brand of sports wear that’s on his hoodie-shirt and sweatband. If something is waterproof (and therefore, sweatproof) he’ll give it a try AS LONG AS IT’S REEEEED!!!

Max - Geek Fashion. Max dresses like he’s already 65 years old, and with his best friend being Kim? He might be. He has invested in some good walking shoes because when your bestie is running off at any and every moment, you gotta do SOMETHING to keep up. His pants are higher up than most guys and his shirts are always tucked in. He prefers sweaters over sweatshirts and cardigans to jackets. We are comfortable in this house, not trendy!

Juleka - Electro Goth. Black is the main attraction, but she likes that punch of something neon - purple, green, even blue (Rose can tell she’s feeling romantic when she puts on some pink). She’s tall and likes clothes that accentuate that and she’s a fan of the details - shoulder cuts, lace inserts, epaulets. And despite covering half her face, she’s really into makeup (and she’s way better than Chloe). Does she have colored contacts? She’ll never tell.

Rose - Decora Kei is probably the best shortcut to describing her look, followed by Kawaii Fashion. Doesn’t matter if she burns to look at, she IS the embodiment of soft and cute! Obviously pink is her favorite color, bu she also likes pairing it with some other bright colors. Rainbows. Are. EVERYTHING. And she’s a sucker for bunnies and strawberries and angel wings ^^! How else is she supposed to have an amazing day if she’s not decked out in sunshine?!

Nathaniel - Basic but like Colorful Basic. He definitely hopped the skinny jeans phase and will continue to do so until he finally grows a bit. He holds onto clothes pretty long because there’s only so many times you can buy new shirts after getting paint and charcoal on them before you just stop caring. He aims for durability instead of fashionable, but also collects clothes with the logo from the show he likes. (And no one knows about his secret Ladybug merch collection that he only wears around his house).

Lila - Gyaru was the search term I used. She’s one of the few with a not super saturated color palette, sticking to dark neutrals. She’s drawn to patterns, like polka dots and zebra prints, and tries to balance it with neutral colors. Plus anything that makes her seem “exotic” and foreign and more interesting, she’ll wear (as long as it’s stylish enough for her.) She cleverly toes the line between fashionable and trashy, showing just enough skin or using a just flashy enough pattern. Every piece she wears she’s crafted a whole story around how she got it, like her bracelets being a gift from street kids in Belize or her earrings being a prize she won when impressing an East Asian Prince. 

#fashion #ask zoe #ml #miraculous ladybug