Meant To Be: Chapter 6 (AU)
IT’S DAY SIX OF LOVESQUARE FLUFF WEEK 2020!!!
(LOL. NO, IT MOST DEFINITELY IS NOT, BUT I MUST MAKE EACH POST LOOK THE SAME. WE CAN ALL JUST PRETEND THAT THIS ISN’T TWO WEEKS LATE. *nervous laughter*)
Thank you @lovesquarefluffweek for organizing this event!
Welcome back! Today’s prompt is “AU”.
I PROMISE YOU ARE STILL READING THE SAME FIC. IT WILL ALL MAKE SENSE IN THE END. I based the entire fic on this chapter. Also, this chapter is much longer than the other ones for...reasons.
I also collabed with @flashflashitsash! She made some STUNNING art for this chapter. You can find it here.
Enjoy!
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BEGINNING
<— Previous Next —->
AO3
FanFiction
Chapter 6: AU
“Rise and shine, Your Highness,” a loud grating voice called out, “It’s time to start your day!”
Adrien groaned, flipped onto his stomach, and smashed his pillow over his head. “Why do you sound so cheerful today, Plagg? You’re never happy this early in the morning.”
The older man drew the curtains with a flourish. “And why would I not be jumping for joy on a day where I get to attend a party and have access to a buffet?”
“So you’re telling me that you and the rest of the palace staff have the night off? I don’t know. The ball really seems like an ‘all-hands-on-deck’ kind of event.”
“No one has the night off, young prince. Not even you. Still, as Master of the Household, I am afforded certain opportunities.”
“Ahhh, so even though you don’t technically have the night off, somehow you’ve been given the chance to enjoy the party along with all the guests. I hope my father is aware of your plans.”
“Enjoy is a strong word. As per the king’s orders, someone has to keep you in line tonight; however, it’s not a crime to enjoy some expensive cheese while I’m at it.”
Adrien sat up. “I thought it was Nathalie’s job to keep me in line.”
“The Grand Duchess will have other matters to attend to tonight, so His Majesty enlisted me to keep a watchful eye on his son,” Plagg grumbled.
“I’m guessing those other matters include wooing my father?”
“And comments like that are precisely why he’s asked me to keep an eye on you. He wants me to make sure that you are the perfect gentleman at the ball.”
“I am aware of how my father wants me to conduct myself tonight. Pray tell, since when have I not followed his rules?”
“Ever since you met that girl in the market a few months ago.”
He felt a swell of emotion rise in his chest. “What can I say? Falling in love with my lady changed me.”
“And your clandestine meeting created more work for the rest of us. How I long for the days where you would stay on the palace grounds and attend to your duties,” the servant said with a heavy sigh.
“You say that as if you don’t enjoy breaking the rules, as well. What happened to the man who helped me escape last week?”
“Today, that man is old, tired, and hungry.”
“You never cease to amaze me, Plagg. How can you be both chaotic and lazy at the same time? Teach me your ways.”
“Oh, trust me, you don’t need any lessons in rule-breaking. You’re doing fine all on your own.”
“Only because I learned from the best.”
“Flattery will get you nowhere, Your Highness.”
Adrien did his best to hold back a smile. “While that may be true, your old cloak gets me everywhere I need to go.”
“For the love of all that is good in this world, please refrain from disappearing tonight.” Plagg pinched the bridge of his nose. “I would like to enjoy my evening at the ball without actually worrying about you.”
“I only disappear when it’s absolutely necessary.”
“Necessary to see your lady friend?”
“Precisely! And she’s coming tonight, so I have no need to leave the palace. You will be able to enjoy your disgusting cheese in peace.”
The door flew open and thudded against the wall. “Good morning, Your Highness! Isn’t it a wonderful day.”
“Not while you’re around,” Plagg mumbled under his breath.
Adrien glared at the older man. “Would you stop that? Even though he’s being strangely formal with his greeting this morning, Nino is like a brother to me.”
“Trust me, young sire, my aching bones are fully aware of that fact. I know that he’s your partner in crime.”
Nino shot Adrien a worried look. “He knows? What did you tell him?”
“Where do you think I got the cloak?” Adrien shrugged.
“You’re telling me that you got the idea for Chat Noir from him?”
Plagg scoffed. “Excuse me, but long ago and far away, I was Chat Noir. This fledgling over here is my successor.”
Nino smiled, tipped his hat, and bowed. “Good show, sir. May I just say that the cat ears on the cloak are a nice touch.”
“My darling Tikki came up with that idea. She even sewed them on for me. It helped us through the dark times we experienced under the former king’s rule.”
“Are you telling us that life is better with King Gabriel seated on the throne? Goodness, you have some low standards, old man,” Nino chuckled.
“You know I could have you beheaded for talking that way about the king.” Adrien threw his legs over the side of the bed.
“You could, but then you’d lose the greatest Captain of the Guard this kingdom has ever seen.”
“I’m sure we could find some eager, young recruit who would be up to the task.”
“But he wouldn’t be your best friend.”
Adrien stood up. “You’ve got me there.”
“All jokes aside, are you ready for tonight?” Nino asked with a grin.
“Surely you jest?” Plagg laughed, “He won’t stop talking about his ‘foolproof’ plan. That’s why he’s so tired this morning. He was up all night making sure everything was...oh, how did he put it? Purr-fect.”
“Wow,” Nino shook his head, “You’re really taking on that Chat Noir persona with gusto, aren’t you?”
He shook his head. “That’s just it, my friend. I think Chat Noir is who I’ve always been. When I put on the mask and cloak, I feel like I can finally be myself. I’m no longer Prince Adrien. I’m just...well, I’m just Adrien.”
“Doesn’t change the fact that you are a prince.”
“Yes, but for a moment, I’m free to live my life as if I’m not. People treat me differently. They see past the jewels and title.”
“It’s not like anyone would know that you’re the prince anyway. You haven’t been paraded around in public since your mother died, and that was years ago. No one would recognize you.”
“Still, one can never be too careful.”
“With your dad around, I can’t argue with that.”
“Yes, especially with how unreasonable he’s been as of late.”
“He’s always unreasonable, but I agree. I can’t believe he reacted like that when you told him about the girl you met.”
“Well, I did meet her when I snuck out, and I know that he isn’t pleased about that. Unfortunately, I also know that he’s doing everything in his power to keep me from the love of my life. He wants me to marry a princess, but why can’t he see that my lady is royalty in my eyes. She would make an excellent queen one day.”
“Is that why he turned this event into a masquerade at the last minute?”
“Yes, and even though everyone will be wearing masks tonight, I will recognize my lady. Our love will help us find each other,” Adrien declared confidently.
“That and the dress you secretly commissioned Tikki to make for your lady friend,” Plagg noted.
Nino released a heavy sigh. “That was you? You’re the reason I haven’t seen Alya in a week? She and Tikki have been working on that gown day and night. Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Because the fewer people who knew the better.” Adrien hung his head. “You’ve been an amazing friend. You kept my escapades as Chat Noir a secret, and I didn’t want my crazy plan to outsmart my father to further jeopardize your position as Captain of the Guard.”
“You know I’d do anything for you. I consider you a part of my family.”
“I know, but contrary to popular belief, I’d like to actually keep you around.”
“I guess that’s good to hear. Thank you, brother.”
“Speaking of the wonderful Alya, I hope that she’s excited for tonight.”
“Honestly, she was surprised that she even got an invitation. Alya told me that while she was living in King André and Queen Audrey’s kingdom, they would have fabulous parties in which they never invited the ‘common folk’.”
“Alya is anything but common.”
Nino clapped his hand on Adrien’s shoulder. “You don’t have to tell me twice. I think I’m going to ask for her hand in marriage tonight.”
“Truly?” Adrien embraced his friend. “Congratulations. You are a lucky man.”
Plagg cleared his throat. “May I remind you that breakfast starts in fifteen minutes? I doubt you want your father in a foul mood today.”
“My father never eats breakfast with me. He’ll never know if I’m late.”
“He’s already in the dining hall counting down the minutes until your arrival.”
“WHAT?”
Adrien ran to his closet and threw open the door. He tossed on a pair of tight black pants, a billowing white shirt, and a green vest with gold embroidery.
“Do I look presentable?” he asked while pulling on his black riding boots.
“How you are able to look like that minutes after waking up I’ll never know,” Nino chuckled.
“I will take that as a ‘yes’.”
Plagg pulled out a pocket watch. “Now, you have three minutes to get downstairs.”
After taking a glance at himself in the mirror on his wall, Adrien ran out of his bedroom and bounded down the stairs. He took a moment to slow his breathing and adjust his vest before quietly walking into the dining hall and taking a seat.
“You’re late,” King Gabriel said without looking up from the papers in his hands.
“I’m sorry, father.” Adrien carefully placed his napkin in his lap. “It won’t happen again.”
“See that it doesn’t. You’ve been late for a lot of things recently. Is there anything you wish to tell me? You’re still not sneaking out to see that girl, are you?”
“No, sir.”
“I see. Well, I hope that you are prepared for this evening’s festivities.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. Tonight’s event is very important for the future of our kingdom.”
“I am aware.”
“Also, I hope you are ready to announce who your future bride will be by the end of the night.”
Adrien choked on air. “Excuse me?”
King Gabriel put down the papers. “This ball is meant for you to choose a wife. I’ve invited plenty of royal families from neighboring kingdoms. Surely you’ll have no problem choosing someone suitable to rule by your side.”
“But father, we’ve never discussed anything like this. I thought tonight was merely a pre-coronation celebration.”
“It is, and at your coronation next week, you will have your future queen by your side.”
“Is this really necessary?”
“Yes, Adrien.” The king leaned forward. “Come this time next week, you will have been declared the crown prince of this kingdom. Our citizens need to know that the royal line of succession remains intact. Having a fiancée will ensure the people that you will have an heir one day.”
“But why only one night to choose?” Adrien did his best to stay composed. “This is not one of our traditions. Mother was not by your side at your coronation.”
“We live in a different world now. Things are not as they were when I was your age.”
“That’s because grandfather was still king.”
“You will not speak of that man in my presence!”
“And why not?”
Gabriel paused and took a deep breath before returning his attention to his son. “Why the sudden hesitation to marry? You seemed all too eager when you told me about the commoner you met in the market.”
Anger continued to boil in Adrien’s gut. “Is that what all of this is about? I know that’s why you turned this into a masquerade, but would you really rather see me miserable than to love someone beneath our status?”
“I would rather see you in a strong political alliance than throw away your greatest bargaining chip for a frivolous romance with some girl.”
“So, my heart is a bargaining chip?”
“No, your hand in marriage is.”
“I love her, father.”
“You don’t even know her name.”
“It never came up, and I plan on learning it tonight.”
“Love and politics do not go hand in hand.”
“Then why were you allowed to love my mother? Or was all of that a lie?”
Both he and his father locked eyes as a tense silence fell between them. After several uncomfortable minutes, a quiet cough caused Adrien to break his stare.
Nathalie sauntered across the room and took her place next to the king. “Pardon my intrusion, sire.”
His father’s lips curled into a disconcerting smile. “Ahh, good morning, Grand Duchess. I trust the preparations for tonight are nearly complete.”
“Indeed they are, Your Majesty; however, I came here to remind Adrien that he has his final suit fitting in ten minutes.”
“Just as well.” Gabriel redirected his attention to his son. “It would be impolite for you to be late for your appointment with the seamstress. It is not proper to make life unreasonably difficult for our staff.”
“You’re one to talk,” Adrien mumbled under his breath.
The king slammed his hand against the table. “I beg your pardon?”
Not wanting to apologize for his insubordination, Adrien turned his head and looked at the entranceway to the dining hall. Plagg stood silently in the threshold with Nino by his side. Seeing his support system reminded him of all that he had experienced as Chat Noir over the past several months.
He’d found freedom.
He’d found love.
He’d found a life.
And now his father was threatening to take all of it away. Adrien knew that he had to do everything in his power to find the right girl at the ball, and at that moment, he realized that his lady needed to be able to find him, as well.
A wave of confidence washed away the anger. “I don’t want to wear the white suit tonight. I want to wear black.”
“What did I say about making things difficult for the servants?” Gabriel seethed.
“I have a black suit.”
“Black is for funerals, Adrien. This is meant to be a joyous occasion.”
“Is it? I had no idea.”
“Excuse me?”
“May I interject, Your Majesty,” Plagg said, stepping into the room.
Gabriel looked at the servant. “Yes, please come in. Anything to help my son see reason.”
“Actually, I was going to suggest a compromise.”
“Oh, how very diplomatic, Plagg. My son could learn a thing or two from you.”
“Thank you, my lord. I noticed that tensions were running high, and I know that several royal families are staying here at the palace. I thought it might be important for our guests to see us looking calm and collected. Also, getting ourselves worked up now will do us no favors for our moods come this evening.”
“As per usual, you’re absolutely right. We shouldn’t let our emotions get the best of us. Let’s hear your suggestion.”
“What if the prince wore his blue suit? He looked rather becoming in it at your birthday dinner last month.”
“If I recall things correctly, that suit had a tear on the sleeve.”
“Yes, Your Highness, but our seamstress could mend it in a matter of minutes.”
Gabriel tapped his chin. “Very well. Have one of the maids fetch my son’s blue suit and bring it to Tikki.”
“I shall bring it to her myself.” Plagg bowed and exited the room.
The king turned towards Adrien. “As for you, I expect your best behavior tonight. There will be serious consequences if I find that you are rude to our guests.”
Every muscle in his body felt tense. “I would never be rude to our guests. They have done nothing wrong. However, don’t expect me to fall in love with anyone new tonight.”
“Let’s just see what happens at the ball.”
“Yes, let’s.”
“You may take your leave now, Adrien. You don’t want to keep Tikki waiting.” Gabriel dismissed him with a wave of his hand.
“I will see you at the ball, father.” Adrien stood, bowed, and exited the room.
When he turned the corner and began walking down the long corridor towards Tikki’s chambers, Nino grabbed him by the arm, stopping him in his tracks.
“What was that?” his friend hissed through gritted teeth, “I’ve never seen you talk to your father that way? I’m all for thwarting his evil plans behind his back, but do you really think that was wise? This isn’t like you.”
Adrien pulled his arm out of Nino’s grip and continued walking towards his destination. “I’m tired of not being heard.”
“You will have plenty of time to be heard when you are king.”
“Yes, but forcing me to choose a bride tonight is his way of making sure that he’s able to maintain some control even when I am the king. He’s setting up political alliances, and if my father gets his way, I’ll always be his puppet. This morning proved to me that I’m merely a pawn in whatever sick game he’s been playing behind the scenes, and I’ll have no more of it.”
“Are you insinuating that your father is actually up to something nefarious? I was kidding about the whole ‘evil plan’ thing before.”
“Honestly, I’ve had my suspicions for a while, but this confirms it for me. He obviously doesn’t care about my happiness, so I don’t care what his plans are. He had my mother; therefore, I am well within my rights to marry for love. I will find my lady tonight, and if she’ll have me, I will ask her to be my bride.”
“Then it’s a good thing that dress is almost complete,” Plagg chuckled as Adrien entered Tikki’s room.
Relief washed over him. “It is?”
“Indeed, Your Highness,” Tikki replied cheerfully, “I just have to finish sewing on the beading. Would you like to see it?”
“Yes, please.”
“Come with me.”
The seamstress motioned for Adrien to follow, and he happily obliged. She led him into a large storage space filled with dozens of dress forms, but a floor-length ball gown made of shiny red satin immediately caught his eye. Intricate beading glittered in the closet’s dim light and covered the dress’s bodice with swirling patterns. The sleeves draped delicately off the mannequin’s shoulders and met in the middle to create a sweetheart neckline.
“Tikki.” Adrien ran his fingers along the smooth fabric on the skirt. “You and Alya did an amazing job. My lady will love the dress.”
The older woman smiled. ‘I’m happy you like it, Your Highness.”
“I love it.”
“Did you tell your lady friend what to say to my apprentice when she goes to retrieve it from the shop?”
“Yes, I spoke with her last night. She knows to tell Alya that the dress is from Chat Noir. I also gave her the pink rose and told her to use it as payment.”
“And I will make sure that her invitation is with the dress when she comes to pick it up.”
“Excellent.”
“Everything's in order. You have nothing to worry about, Your Highness. Now, shoo! I must finish this dress and have it sent into town!”
“Thank you, Tikki!”Adrien laughed, backed out of the storage closet, and bumped into Nino.
“Hey!” Nino exclaimed, rubbing his arm.
“Sorry. I was too busy trying to memorize how that dress looked.”
“I’ll let it slide this time.”
“Thank you.”
“So, was it all you hoped it would be?”
“It’s a stunning gown, and I’ll have no trouble recognizing my lady...as long as she’s the one wearing it. What if this doesn’t work? What if something goes wrong? Now that my father wants me to choose a bride tonight, there’s so much more at stake.”
Nino put his hands on Adrien’s shoulders. “Breathe, my friend. That dress is only meant to be one way for you to recognize your lady. Surely there are other things that you can use to confirm her identity.”
“You’re right.” Adrien nodded. “I would know my lady anywhere. I have a whole list of things that I can use to make sure that I’m dancing with the right girl tonight.”
“Well, it’s time for your fencing lesson. You can tell me all about your list on the way there.”
Adrien felt some of his nervousness melt away. “Excellent! First, let me tell you about her eyes.”
“Something tells me that it’s going to be a long day,” Nino groaned.
“Oh, just wait until I tell you about the song I heard in a dream! When I sang it for her, she kissed me!”
“How many more things are on your list, Adrien?”
“I’m just getting started, Nino, and I’ve got all day until the ball begins!”
Over the next few hours, Adrien went to his fencing lesson, talked with his best friend, gave the musicians the sheet music for the song he’d sung for his lady, attended to an array of princely duties, and got ready for the ball. Once he was dressed in his navy blue suit, he fastened his mask to his face with a ribbon and placed a silver crown on his head. He then made his way to the ballroom.
Once inside, Adrien kept his eyes glued on the door. He was vaguely aware of the crowds of people and lively music that swirled around him, but the only thing he could hear was the sound of his heart pounding against his eardrums. His anxiousness grew with each passing thump.
“Are you okay, brother?” Nino asked, tapping him on the shoulder, “You look like you’re about to pass out.”
He wiped his hands against his pants. “No, I’m not okay. She’s not here yet. I fear something may have happened to her.”
“Well, Alya took the dress to Tikki’s shop a few hours ago, and your lady friend is probably still getting ready.”
“What if my lady forgot what to say to Alya? What if Alya doesn’t believe that my lady is the one who was meant to wear the dress? What if…”
Nino cut him off, “I’m sure everything will work out. If something happened with the dress, you have plenty of other ways to make sure that you pick the right girl. Remember?”
Adrien nodded. “Yes, my lady is much more than the dress she’ll put on tonight. I will be able to recognize her.”
“Exactly! You have the song that you heard in the dream.”
“And there’s the color of her eyes and her love of pink.”
“By the end of tonight, you will know your lady’s name, and she will be your future bride.”
“Only if she says yes.”
“If she’s anything like she is in the stories you’ve told me, you don’t have anything to worry about. It sounds like she’s pretty enamored with you, as well,” Nino laughed.
“I hope so.” Adrien took a deep breath. “Otherwise this is going to be an awkward night.”
The doors at the top of the stairs swung open, and Adrien’s knees went weak when he saw a guest who was wearing his commissioned dress appear on the balcony. Time stood still as the raven-haired woman floated down the stairs and across the room. He thought he was going to pass out when she finally stopped in front of him.
The woman curtsied. “Good evening, Your Highness.”
His gaze remained transfixed on the woman. “Good evening, my…”
Everything inside of Adrien stopped when their eyes met. Behind the red and gold mask that covered the top half of her face, he was met with two shining, brown irises, not the bright ocean blue he’d been expecting,
“Are you alright?” she asked with worry lacing her voice, “Do you feel unwell?”
He shook his head and fought back tears that had begun to pool in his eyes. “My most sincere apologies, miss. I mistook you for someone else.”
“Well, I’m afraid you and I have never met. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Princess Kagami Tsurugi.”
“Ahhhh, yes. I remember my father mentioning that you and your mother were coming to stay with us. I apologize for not coming to see you when you arrived. Are you enjoying your visit to our kingdom?”
“I am! I even met someone who is supposed to be working here tonight. I fear that I may have promised to spend the evening with him, and I didn’t really plan on dancing with you. I hope you’re not upset. I know my mother is. She likes it when I follow the rules and spending the night with a commoner definitely goes against her rules.”
“I completely understand. My father isn’t too happy with me right now either.” Adrien took both of Kagami’s hands in his own and chuckled. “Trust me when I say that I’m not offended, princess. As long as we’re both being honest, I wasn’t really planning on dancing with you either. I’m still waiting for someone to arrive.”
“Is that so?”
“Yes, a girl.”
“Is she also a commoner?”
“Yes.”
“And that is why your father is angry.”
“He doesn’t want me to marry beneath my status.”
“Then we live very similar lives.”
“It appears that way.” Adrien paused before continuing. “Also, I don’t know how or why, but you’re wearing her dress.”
“I am? Is that why you thought I was someone else?” Kagami cocked her head to the side. “Did you think I was her?”
“I did. May I inquire as to how you obtained the gown?”
“The Grand Duchess brought it to my room this afternoon.”
“Nathalie?”
“I believe that was her name, yes.”
Adrien turned to Nino. “Now do you see what I mean about my father? He has to be up to something.”
“Is it bad for me to say that I’m not surprised?” Nino asked, shaking his head.
“Not at all. I’ve come to expect this kind of nonsense from him over the past few months.”
“Well, brother, tonight is not the night to be thinking about your father. Right now, we need to focus on finding your lady.”
“Is there anything I can do to help?” Kagami looked between both boys.
Adrien sighed. “I’m not sure. Right now my lady is without a dress and an invitation. There’s no way for her to get into the palace, and I have no idea where she is right now.”
Nino rubbed his chin. “We could always check her house.”
“I can’t just leave.” Adrien pointed to the balcony overlooking the dancefloor. “My father is quite literally watching my every move, and I don’t want Plagg to get in trouble. Remember, he’s supposed to be ‘watching’ me.”
“Then, let’s just wait for Alya. I’m sure she could help us come up with something.”
“Are you two talking about me behind my back?” Alya laughed, entering the conversation.
“Perfect timing, as always, my love,” Nino leaned over and kissed Alya on the cheek.
“Yeah, yeah. Enough sweet talk. I have to tell you two about the night I had.” She turned to look at Kagami. “Or should I say three of you?”
Adrien scratched the back of his head. “We’re having an interesting night, as well.”
“Considering that’s the red dress that made me age ten years in two hours, I’m guessing that you know part of what I’m about to tell you.”
“We don’t know much. Princess Kagami just told us that Nathalie brought the dress to her room this afternoon.”
“Wait,” Alya turned to the woman in the dress, “you’re Kagami? My best friend told me all about you.”
“Oh, you must be Alya.” Kagami clasped her hands in front of her. “She told me all about you, as well. I was hoping to meet you here tonight.”
“She told me that she introduced you to Luka.”
“Yes, I did get the chance to meet him.”
“I also heard that you two kissed by the fountain last night.”
Kagami smirked. “A princess never kisses and tells.”
Alya chuckled. “I can see why she likes you. I’m sure she’d be happy to know that you’re the one who accidentally received her dress.”
“Hold on.” Adrien held up his hand. “Are you telling me that your best friend is the person who was supposed to get this dress? You know my lady?”
“Your lady? There’s only one person who calls her that. Wait...you’re Chat Noir?” Alya pointed an accusatory finger in his direction. “You’re the masked gentleman who’s visited my best friend almost every single night for the past three months?”
“Guilty as charged.”
“So, that means that you’re the one who commissioned the dress?”
“Yes, and I’m desperate to know what happened.”
Alya nodded. “Of course. Umm...let’s see, Tikki sent me into town with the dress once it was completed. I waited for about an hour, and the Grand Duchess told me that the dress was from Chat Noir, and she gave me a pink rose as payment. Tikki told me that the person who did those two things was the rightful owner of the dress, so I gave it to her.”
“And what about my lady?”
“You keep calling her ‘your lady’. Do you not know her name?”
“If we’re being fair, she doesn’t know mine, and I plan on asking her what it is once I find her. Right now you’re the only one who can help us.”
“Point taken. Well, when she came into the shop, she also said the right words and tried to give me the rose, and that’s when I knew that there had been a terrible mistake. I was about to give her my dress and invitation when Tikki arrived and saved the day. All the dresses in the shop had been cleared out, so I don’t know where Tikki found the one that she gave her.”
Adrien breathed a sigh of relief. “So, she did get a dress?”
“Yes,” Alya replied with a reassuring smile, “And Tikki gave her an invitation.”
“Do you know where she is now?”
The doors once again swung open, revealing another raven-haired woman; however, unlike Kagami, this guest wore a pale pink ball gown with a skirt that billowed behind her. Her arms hugged the form-fitting bodice of her dress as she scanned the room from behind a matching mask. When her eyes locked with Adrien’s, she offered him a tiny wave and beamed. He returned the gesture, and she gracefully descended the stairs. All the air left his lungs when she began to walk towards him.
“It’s her,” he whispered.
Alya placed a hand on his shoulder. “It is, and it’s time for the three of us to leave you two alone.”
“I’ll go ask Luka to play the song we gave him earlier today.” Nino then turned to Kagami. “Come, Your Highness. I will show you where the musicians are.”
“That would be greatly appreciated,” Kagami said with a smile, “Good luck, Prince Adrien.”
“Mmmhmm,” he said absentmindedly, “Thanks."
Even as the trio walked away, his eyes remained glued to the woman who was slowly making her way across the room. He desperately wanted to run through the crowd, sweep her off her feet, and hold her close, but he knew that his father was still watching; therefore, he made the difficult decision to hold his position.
She quickened her pace the last few feet, crashed into him, and pulled him into a tight embrace. “I’m so happy to see you, Chaton. You’ll never believe the night I’ve had.”
Adrien wrapped his arms around her and felt fully at peace for the first time that night. “Good evening, my lady. Words cannot describe how overjoyed I am that you are finally here.”
“I apologize for not wearing the dress you got me, but there was a little mix-up at the shop.”
“I heard, and I don’t care. All that matters is that you are here and that you are safe.”
“But how did you know that it was me?”
“I could see your beautiful blue eyes from across the room.”
“Really?”
“Yes, and considering the number of times I’ve gotten lost in your eyes, I would recognize them anywhere.”
“Stop! You’re going to make me blush. How do you always manage to say the most wonderful things?”
“My words come straight from the heart when I’m with you.”
“And why is that?”
“Because you bring out the best in me.”
Her cheeks grew red as she pulled away from the embrace and tapped him on the nose. “Alright, kitty-cat, am I supposed to listen to your sweet talk all night, or are we going to dance?”
He took one of her hands, raised it to his lips, and kissed it. “I am ready to do whatever the lady wishes.”
Adrien’s gesture sent her into a fit of giggles that came to an abrupt halt. “Is that a crown?”
“This is it,” his mind reassured him, “Now’s your chance to tell her who you really are.”
“Yes,” he stated with as much confidence as he could muster.
“Oh.” She visibly swallowed. “Is it part of your masquerade costume or are you wearing it for another reason?”
“I wear it every day. My father would be very upset if I took it off. He’s been watching me all night, so he would know if I did.”
“Your father?”
Adrien pointed to the lofted space where his father and several other dignitaries sat with stone-faced expressions. When she turned her head to look, Adrien watched her hands clench the fabric on her skirt.
“My lady?” he asked tentatively, “How are you feeling?”
“I’m f-fine,” she squeaked, “Is your father the one sitting on the throne?”
“Yes.”
She spun around and faced him. “You’re Prince Adrien?”
His heart sank at the sight of tears shining in her eyes. “I am.”
“Your Highness,” she said quickly, curtsying low, “I am not worthy to stand in your presence. I apologize for my inappropriate behavior. I’ll take my leave.”
“Wait!” He reached out and gently grabbed her hand, “Are you leaving because my title makes you nervous, or are you leaving because you don’t want to be with me anymore?”
“I want to be with you more than anything. My heart aches when you leave me each night.”
“Then stay. Please.”
“I’m not royalty.”
“You could be.”
“I’m just a baker’s daughter. I’m not special.”
Adrien leaned in. “Yes, you are. You’re purr-fect.”
She laughed and wiped a stray tear with the back of her hand. “You really are my Chaton, aren’t you?”
“I am. This is why I didn’t tell you that I was the prince. I wanted you to get to know me without all of the distractions that come with the crown. Can you forgive me?”
“There’s nothing to forgive.”
“You’re not angry?”
“No,” she shook her head, “I understand. Your instincts were right. I probably would have run away from you if I had known the truth.”
He took her hands. “Are you going to run away now?”
“Now why would I go and do something like that? You still haven’t given me that dance you promised.”
“Is that so?”
The song being played by the musicians faded away, and the lilting sound of a familiar melody began to resonate throughout the ballroom. Adrien took his lady’s hands and gave them a gentle squeeze.
“Is that what I think it is?” Her voice was laced with disbelief.
Adrien nodded. “It is.”
“I thought you said that you heard that song in a dream.”
“I did, and it plays in my head every time I think of you. It was driving me insane, and I finally had to write it down after a few days. I gave the sheet music to Luka, and Nino just asked him to play it.”
“Does this mean that I finally get to dance with you?”
“Yes, my lady.”
He pulled her close and placed one of his hands on her waist. She rested her free hand on his shoulder, and they began to glide across the floor. For a moment, everything else in the room melted away, and the only thing left was the incredible woman in his arms.
All too soon, the song ended and the rest of the world came crashing back into focus. He became painfully aware of his father’s overbearing glare, and his brain desperately searched for a way to be alone with his lady.
“It’s getting kind of warm in here,” Adrien mumbled, tugging at his collar.
“Perhaps we could go outside?” she shrugged.
“That’s a wonderful idea. I can show you the palace gardens.” He held out his arm for her to take.
She smiled and linked her arm with his, and he quickly escorted her out of the ballroom, down the hall, and through a set of doors that led to the gardens. They walked in a comfortable silence until they reached a quiet corner that was hidden by a willow tree in full bloom. Within the tiny space, there was a white gazebo and dozens of rose bushes.
“They’re all pink.” She reached out and touched the petals of a rose in full bloom.
Adrien felt a pang of sadness shoot through his heart. “This was my mother’s favorite spot. She planted all of the bushes here. When I was younger, we’d sit inside the gazebo, and she’d read me all kinds of stories.”
“That’s a beautiful memory. Thank you for showing me this place.”
“She would have loved you. Probably almost as much as I do.”
He heard her breath catch. “What did you say?”
“I think I may have just told you that I love you,” he chuckled.
“You’ve never said that to me before.”
“I mean it, my lady. I love you with all that I am.”
“But you’re the prince, and I’m just a commoner.”
“That doesn’t change how I feel about you.”
“What does that mean for us then?”
“It means that I want us to be together.”
“Your father wouldn’t approve.”
“I don’t care what my father thinks. He’s not going to be king forever.”
“Okay.” She walked into the gazebo and sat down on a bench. “Let’s say we do begin courting. Then what would happen? It’s not like we could have a normal relationship.”
Adrien took a seat next to her. “My lady, our relationship thus far has been anything but normal.”
“True, but still! How would this even work?”
“Well, by the end of the ball, I am expected to choose a bride. If you’ll have me, when we go back inside, I will declare you as my future wife. Then you will stand by my side at my coronation next week, and in a year’s time we’ll be wed.”
“You want me to marry you?”
“More than anything in this world. You’re already a princess in my eyes, why not make it official?”
“A princess?”
“Yes, the wife of the crown prince becomes a princess. Then, when I become king, you would become my queen.”
“Queen?”
“My lady, you are the most incredible person I’ve ever met. Even in the face of great hardship, you manage to stay positive and selfless. You have the kindest heart and the quickest mind. This kingdom would be lucky to have you as it’s queen. You make my life better and brighter, and I would love nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you. I love you.”
She smiled and choked back a sob. “I love you, too.”
“Are those happy tears?” Using his thumb, Adrien wiped the wetness off of one of her cheeks.
“Yes.” She nodded into his hand. “They’re very happy tears. I love you, too.”
He laughed, took her hands, and got down on one knee. “In that case, my beautiful lady, will you marry me?”
“Yes.” She pulled him to his feet and threw her arms around him. “A thousand times, yes!”
Adrien picked her up and spun her around, causing her to giggle. When he placed her back onto the ground, he kept her in his arms and rested his forehead against hers.
Without letting go, he pulled away. “There’s just one thing that you need to do before I can go back inside and tell my father that I made my decision.”
“Oh,” she said, looking up, “and what might that be?”
“I need you to tell your name.”
“My goodness, I never told you what it was, did I?”
“No, you didn’t. You didn’t want to tell me what it was during our first meeting, and I didn’t want to upset you by asking again.”
“You should have said something! I feel so silly now.”
“Don’t, my lady. We had an interesting start to our relationship. We both chose not to disclose our names, so it makes sense why you would choose to keep something like that to yourself.”
“I just got so used to hearing you call me ‘your lady’, that I forgot to tell you.”
She let go of his hands, took a step back, untied the ribbon holding her mask in place, and smiled. “My name is Marinette.”
Joy flooded his body and his mind began to spin. Her name sounded like the sweetest symphony. Adrien felt himself falling in love with her all over again. Everything made sense. His lady was Marinette, and all was right with the world.
Then, everything faded to black.
***
Adrien’s eyes flicked open. His heart was racing and he gasped for air. His mind scrambled to hold onto the memory of the dream that was slowly fading away.
“My lady is Marinette,” he whispered.
Plagg groaned. “Kid, why are you awake? It is three o’clock in the morning, and I thought I told you not to wake me up.”
“Ladybug is Marinette.”
“Finally.”
“Marinette is Ladybug.”
“Yes, we’ve already established that.”
“I’m not in love with two people.”
“Don’t tell me you’re going to be up for the rest of the night talking about this.”
“How can I sleep at a time like this?”
“Just close your eyes or something,” Plagg grumbled, “You can finish having your existential crisis in the morning.”
He turned away from his Kwami and let his mind race. “She was right next to me the entire time.”
Adrien grabbed his phone, tapped the screen, and pulled up a new browser. He only had eighteen hours to figure out how to tell Ladybug that he knew who she was. And right now, all he could do was hope that she wanted to know his identity, as well.
And he could also buy flowers. Lots and lots of flowers.
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Red: ch. 16 Scarlet Lady
this is cross posted on Ao3 (my username is causemufins)
Marinette runs into Alya and they talk about the new hero.
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“You said you wanted to help. If you want you can get some footage for Spot-light as long as you stay far enough away.”
“Deal.” Marinette nodded, taking Chloé’s phone.
“Alright. I guess I’ll see you in a bit.” The blonde ran off to transform.
Marinette watched where Chloé went to for a few minutes before heading towards the akuma. She turned the camera on and started filming, making sure to stay far enough from the battle, but still was careful of any stray attacks.
Finally, Scarlet Lady was on the scene. Marinette was impressed with how Chloé has handling being Ladybug. She couldn’t really remember how the girl was during their fight against each other, but obviously Chloé was fit for the work.
Marinette jumped at a shard nearly hit her and she was about to move away when across the street she saw Alya. “Alya’s going to get herself killed!” And the ravenette raced over to her friend.
“Marinette? What are you doing here?” Alya asked as Marinette grabbed her arm and lead the two of them away from the battle.
“Making sure you don’t get hurt! And I guess also recording.”
Alya’s eyes lit up at the recording part. “Really? Can I get your recording for the ladyblog? Two angles of the fight would make the post more popular.”
Marinette sighed in exasperation. “Alya, no. First, you need to remember news isn’t all about being popular. We can’t have you going there again, second, I was asked to record for Spot-light.”
“Wait, Spot-light? Who asked you? Was it the owner? Do you know who they are?”
Marinette facepalmed from letting that slip. “Look, can we talk about that later? Right now, we are in the middle of a battle.”
Alya reluctantly agreed and they went back to recording the fight. By the time it was over, Marinette had forgotten that she had told Alya they would talk later, though she also didn’t expect that Alya would want to talk right after the battle anyway. As Marinette saw Scarlet going back to where they had been, the ravenette raced there too, not noticing Alya follow.
“I got the recording.” Marinette said to Scarlet just before she changed back.
“Good I’ll put it on. Oh… um. Frick.”
Marinette was confused before turning around to see where Chloé was looking, which was right at Alya, who dropped her phone just then.
“Chloé you’re Scarlet Lady?!” Alya nearly screamed, leaving Marinette and Chloé to scramble towards Alya to cover her mouth.
“Sure! Just announce it to the whole world, why don’t you Césaire?” Chloé scoffed.
“But why would Ladybug choose you as her replacement?” Alya asked, confused. Why not her? Or maybe even Marinette?
“Well obviously, I was a good choice. Better than you fox.”
“No I’m the better cho- wait fox?”
“Oh I know you were Rena Ro-”
Marinette stepped between the two girls. “Calm down you two!”
It took a bit of convincing, but the two girls finally calmed down, though Marinette was a bit annoyed that it seems Chloé was trying to keep the fight going a bit longer.
“So, what’s the explanation Chloé?” Alya asked, picking her phone back up.
The blonde scoffed and crossed her arms. “Alright first, no recording, and make sure if you recorded anything about me being Scarlet, you get rid of it. I’ve got enough of a target on my back from having been Queen Bee. If Hawkmoth finds out I’m Scarlet Lady, he’ll assume I know Ladybug personally and be more likely to use me. As for why I have the miraculous, Ladybug had something she couldn’t get out of with any excuse. Since we work together with Spot-light sometimes, I was the first person she came to.”
“But why you?” Alya asked. “I mean, why not me?”
“Well, the top I have as Queen Bee is similar enough to the yo-yo. And it’s not like me being Scarlet would take a different hero out of the roster. Also, since I knew you and Nino were Rena and Carapace, I could get you two if needed.”
“You know Nino was Carapace?”
“Look, It was easy once I figured out Ladybug’s identity.”
Alya dropped her phone again. “YOU KNOW WHO LAD-” Marinette clamped her hand down on Alya’s mouth.
“Chloé, stop! You’ll make things worse!”
The blonde scoffed. You two can call me once I get home. We can group chat or something. Tikki spots on.” With that she went back home before she detrasformed again.
“Girl what is going on? Why are you involved in this?”
Marinette internally panicked about having to explain everything and going around the whole part about her being Ladybug. “Well, um, uh.”
“Is it something about Lila?” Marinette nodded at that, since it was the truth.
“Chloé found me one day after some of what Lila said got to me so she decided to actually be my friend and help me out. And since Ladybug had been helping keep akumas away from me,” actually Tikki helping with that, “and she worked with Chloé and Chloé started working with her because of Spot-light.”
“But you didn’t include me? Girl I’ve known about you two being friends for a while.”
“Alya.” Marinette sighed. “It wasn’t my secret to tell. Chloé would have told you if she wanted to, and she hasn’t even told Sabrina yet.”
That stunned Alya. “Wait, really? You know but she doesn’t?”
“Yeah, mainly because she needed my help with how it looked. Otherwise she’s been keeping it quiet so that again, no one can target her. Especially since she’s working with the heroes for it.”
“That’s… actually really smart. Since when is Chloé smart?”
“Everyone is smart in their own way. Chloé’s good and seeing the different angles to things, I’m good at seeing a whole picture from a few pieces since it’s like when I’m creating my designs. Max is probability smart, and you and Samantha are various information smart, and so on.”
“I guess that makes sense.”
Finally, they reached Marinette’ home and room and the designer collapsed. “Ugh I’m so tired. What do my messages say?” Marinette handed her phone to Alya.
“Let’s see, you have a message from Chloé about doing a video chat. A number from me which me can ignore. A few from Samantha asking to hang out and two from Luka asking for a date.”
Marinette gave a sigh. “Luka and I are just hanging out as friends. We’re not dating. I’m still getting over Adrien. Dating again would just make things worse.”
“Getting over Adrien? That sounds worse than you just liking Luka now. Give me the deets.”
Marinette groaned. “Let’s talk about that after the video chat with Chloé, okay? Please?”
Reluctantly Alya relented to Marinette and went to the designer’s computer. She already knew the password to it and logged up, opening the video chat. After getting a number from Marinette, she called Chloé, who quickly picked up.
“I guess it’s time for me to explain things. No put that notebook down Césaire. Some of this is secret. Well most of it is. I’ll tell you if it’s something you can write down.”
“Okay fine. I want to know why you have the ladybug miraculous.”
“I already went over this. Ladybug chose me to have it.”
“But why isn’t she here to use it?” Alya asked making Chloé hesitate.
“She wasn’t available to use the miraculous today. It was only today that she was unavailable but I convinced her to let me have it a little longer so it seems like she was unavailable longer to throw people off her trail.”
“Girl stop being so smart. You’re going to give Marientte a run for her money!” At that comment Chloé rolled her eyes and Marinette gained an embarrassed blush. “Now what about Spot-light?”
“I made it because with Lila’s lies on your blog, we needed something that wasn’t just a trashy tabloid. Also they aren’t exactly the same. Mine is more about the personal side of the heroes while you, well most of the time, have actual news about what’s going on. Yes, I’ve been doing some news, but if you go back to doing that yourself, I won’t bother. Better to work together than be rivals now that you know who is running Spot-light.”
“They’re still really alike.” Alya said, worried about her blog taking another hit.
“Look Césaire, we just have to make sure they’re different enough, plus we can link back to each other. It’s a win win unless you turn back into a tabloid. But if you do, I’m there to stop you.”
“I guess that works.” Alya responded with a shrug. Then the two started talking about blog ideas. Marinette sat nearby, watching them with a smile. Then out of nowhere, she hugged Alya. “Girl, you okay?”
“Yeah. I’m just happy again.”
Alya smiled back at the designer before returning the hug. Chloé used that as an opportunity to say goodbye and ask for a meeting at lunch tomorrow at school before she ended the video call, letting Marinette and Alya just hang out and work on being friends once again.
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