Chapter 11 Part 2
I do not own Miraculous Ladybug that belong to Zagtoon and Thomas Astruc.

The Guardian's Story of Friendship Part 2

"The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said and never explained." -Unknown

"Growing apart doesn't change the that for a long time we grew side by side; our roots will always be tangled I'm glad for that." -Allu Condie

Marinette's POV

Marinette let out a laugh as Shan finished retelling a funny story that happened back in Shanghai while she was in Paris.

"Really? Li must have been so mad at you. I'm surprised he didn't try to lock you up." Marinette said in between laughs. Shan chuckled.

"Oh, he tried, you know how serious he is about his job as a detective. Luckily your uncle stopped him before he could try locking me in a jail cell." Marinette shook her head.

"Well to be fair, you might have deserved it."

"Whose side are you on tián xīn?" He said with a huff, pretending to be annoyed. She rolled her eyes at his nickname for her. He had called her that ever since the two had met. She had recalled the day they met.

It had been down pouring outside when they had crossed paths. She had intended to head to her cousin Li's apartment which was close by to take shelter from the storm. She hadn't thought about Li possibly having a roommate.

So, when Shan had answered the door instead of Li, he couldn't miss an opportunity to call her a flirtation nickname in Mandarin Chinese which he found to be romantic and her an annoyance. The term meant 'sweetheart' and no matter how many times she had told him not to call her that, he still did. One could say that he didn't make a good impression on her when they first met.

She found him overly cocky and a flirt, only to learn that his family was known for their company and his father was a wealthy businessman. It furthered her dislike for him, knowing of his parade of women that he had been over the past few years. He didn't hide his womanizing ways back then. So, she had never taken anything he said seriously when he would flirt with her or later when he attempted to ask her out.

Over the course of time, they ended up spending more time with one another through Li. As the two had begun to see each other more, and slowly became friends despite their rocky start. Eventually, key word 'eventually' she accepted to go on a date with him but had not been expecting to enjoy herself that is.

She paused when she felt her phone buzz. The screen flashed with a new message, glancing down at the screen she noticed it was a text from Adrien expressing how happy he was to hear that her mom was okay. Followed by a text from her dad, letting her know when they could visit the hospital.

"Who's that?" Shan asked.

"My dad, he's just telling me what time we can go see my mom is the hospital." Marinette answered. She didn't know why she had said that, although it wasn't a complete lie, as her dad was texting her keeping her updated about Sabine's recovery.

"How is your mom by the way?" He asked. "I was worried when you didn't get back to me." His usual cocky smirk morphed into a frown and his eyes filled with concern. Although Shan was known for his cockiness as well as immaturity, that didn't mean he didn't have a heart or couldn't be serious when it was necessary.

Marinette was quiet for a moment and then took a deep breath.

"Honestly, I don't know, I just know that she is alive and that's all I'm happy about. Last night-I'm sorry I didn't return your call. I was going through one emotional night; my mom had passed away-or well the doctors thought she had anyway. And I couldn't handle speaking to anyone, I just needed to be alone." She stared down at her plate, still feeling quite exhausted from the night before. Between her mom dying and confessing her dark traumatic past to Chat she literally felt as though a truck had hit her. The events yesterday had taken a lot of energy out of her both had been physically and emotionally draining.

She nearly jumped when she felt a hand touch hers, causing her eyes to glance down toward her hand on the table. Shan had reached over and placed his warm hand on hers. He wrapped his hand around hers and gave it a light squeeze as a sign of comfort.

"I know. It's okay Marinette I understand; I'm just happy your mother's okay and you didn't have to go through that pain." The raven-haired young woman felt a small smile tug at her lips, feeling a little better with his comforting presence near her. She liked when he showed a bit more of his sensitive side to her, it touched her heart.

"So how long will you be visiting Paris?" She asked changing the subject. He shrugged.

"I'm not sure, despite business I actually wanted to ask you something." She looked at him expectantly nodding for him to continue. "I know things have been difficult this last month, but I was thinking since I know you want to see and spend time with your mom when they discharge her from the hospital." He paused. "And it also seems like from what you've told me you might have a job already lined up at the Agreste Fashion Agency once your internship ends and it seems like I might be doing a lot more business in Paris." Marinette frowned.

"What are you asking me?" She inquired wondering where he was going with this conversation. What was he trying to ask me? She thought to herself.

"How would you feel about staying in here in Paris?" She blinked and opened her mouth to speak but couldn't seem to find her voice. "I thought we could lease out an apartment perhaps we can try to find something close to the Eiffel Tower-

"N-no!" She protested, she could feel her arm starting to shake slightly and clenched it into a fist to control it.

"Okay…well perhaps closer to your mom and dad's so you can catch up with them or-

"No." She said more firmly. Marinette tried to block out the images that plagued her mind and attempted to control her breathing. She glanced at her drink, though it was alcohol of any kind she took a long sip of her drink. Trying anything to make her block out the memories that she so desperately wanted to forget.

Shan looked at her with concern, there were only a few times he had seen some of these symptoms before. But whenever he asked if she was alright, she brushed him off and say it was nothing. Then it seemed as though her walls were back up again, keeping him out. He had never questioned it more than that because it was quite rare and never to the point of tittering at the edge of a panic attack.

"Marinette," He said softly and reached out to her attempting to comfort her. She pulled back away from him, and he could see her walls were up again. She was pushing him out and was on the defensive. She took a deep breath and finally spoke once she had calmed herself down.

"I don't want to stay here." She was shutting him out, she knew. But she didn't want to talk about it, last night she had found the bravery to do so with Chat. But she needed time to recover once again. She had barely been able tell him, she just needed time. She promised tell Shan eventually.

"Marinette is everything okay?" She sighed and finally made eye contact with him.

"Everything's fine," She attempted to assure him. "I just don't want to stay here-I mean live here." She explained.

"Why not?" He inquired, curious to know her answer.

"I just don't okay." She retorted. He sighed but decided to drop it as he didn't want to fight with her right now. They hadn't seen each other in a month, and he wanted to enjoy his time with her.

"Fine, we can discuss it later. Besides I am not expecting you to decide right now. I'm just asking you to think about it, because I honestly think this could be good for you. You will be able to see your parents more often." She appreciated Shan's kindness, wanting to accommodate for her but so much bad had happened here. It was a constant reminder of why she didn't want to come back. This city was now cursed in her eyes, ever since that night. Shanghai was her home now and she wanted to go back more than anything, to stop the hauntings of her past.

"Thank you, so you said that you were also here for business, right? What else is going on?" Shan shrugged and took a bite of his food then spoke.

"My Fuqin (Father) asked me to take care of some business with Zufu (Grandfather) on a project that they are working on for the company. It's still in the works but were hoping to trade here with other companies in Paris. It's all very technical honestly I wasn't going to do it till Fùqīn (Father) told me that it was taking place in Paris." He explained. She smiled and pulled a stray hair behind her ear.

"Why didn't you tell me before you got here?" He snorted.

"I was trying to surprise you, forgive me for trying to be spontaneous or romantic for that matter. Don't all women love a man that flies halfway across the world for them." She raised eyebrow. "Yes, technically I am here for my Fùqīn's company, but you know I wouldn't have gone unless there was another reason. In this case it gave me an excuse to see you after almost a month in a half with on and off communication due to time zones and attempting to call out of the country." It had been hard to remain in contact with everything that had been going on, the time zones had been challenging. When she was just waking up, he was working with colleagues.

She chuckled.

"You know you don't have to try so hard, you already won me over." He shrugged.

"I just have to keep you; I mean seriously I don't think I have tried so hard to get a woman to go out with me." She sighed remembering all of his failed attempts to woo her when they first met. Excuse her for thinking he was only interested in sleeping with her. When she realized he was serious though, Marinette truly wasn't interested. At the time she wanted to see how serious he was about his feelings for her.

It took almost a year, but she finally agreed to go on a date with him. She wouldn't admit but she had been enjoying his company and figured perhaps one date wouldn't hurt. Honestly who was she to turn down a free meal that he of all people was also paying for. Nothing wrong with being treated once in a while. However, she never actually expected to actual start liking him, he had been a gentleman the entire time and she could say she enjoyed their dates.

After one date, the rest was history and the two ended up becoming close to one another. Marinette still reasoned that it was her fifth date with him, that made her start falling in love with him though.

Marinette glanced at her phone, looking at the time.

"Oh, I should probably be getting back to work soon." Shan nodded and waved the waiter over for the check.

"Here I'll drive you back."

"It's still very weird to see you drive without a chauffer or your father's secretary driving you everywhere."

"Why is that? I have my license I assure you."

"It's because your family is so formal and upscale. I'm not sure they would approve of the car as it might not be too expensive for their luxurious taste." She explained.

"Speaking of formals, there is a gala coming up by the end of the month that my Zǔfù (Grandfather) is throwing here in Paris for the business. I was hoping that you would accompany me to the formal?"

"Hmm…" Marinette pretended to think for a moment, tapping her chin. "I will have to check my schedule I am quite busy you know." She grinned as she pretended to scroll through her phone looking at appointments. Shan shook his head.

"Really?"

"Oh, look at that! I think I should be able to work you into my schedule by the end of the month." Shan raised an eyebrow at her. "Yes, I will be your date."

"Great! I will let my Zǔfù (grandfather) know, he was hoping that you would come. Actually, he wants to meet you official." Marinette perked up a bit interested. She had never met his grandfather before. But had heard many things about him through Shan and even Li. From the way they talked about him, he sounded intimidating versus his father.

"Really? He wants to meet me?" His father and the rest of his immediate family hadn't wanted to meet her. But then again this was his grandfather on his mother's side.

Apparently, he was always too busy to come and see his family during the holidays, but the real reason was that he didn't particularly get along with Shan's father. There were mentions that it had something to do with Shan's mother, but she didn't know much more. She assumed that it was family drama, and something that she shouldn't get involved in because it was a rather touchy subject.

All she knew was that his mother had died when he was no more than a child and that she must have been the pride and joy of the family. Honestly, she found Shan to be the most normal of them, even having a conversation with his sister was sometimes tense.

From what he had told her, he had mostly been raised by his father and older sister. Eventually his grandfather also became someone that he was particularly close to. He said that his grandfather was the closest thing he had left to learning more about his mother. His father never really talked about her and was hardly ever around to really raise him completely either.

Shan came from a wealthy family in China. His father was a CEO of a business. His grandfather also owned a company. Although Shan was expected to also go into business and take over the company he confided in Marinette about his wants and dreams. He didn't want to run the business and follow in his family's footsteps. He wanted to join the army, but due to some medical history he had been injured when he was competing in swim meets which caused the military to decline him as a result.

He seemed interested in becoming a law enforcement officer of some sort and seemed to like what her cousin and his best friend Li was doing with his life. His father was very much against this and still pressured for Shan to take up the family business. It often would lead to arguments; it was no mystery that his father had high expectations for him.

Even when it came to dating her; his father hadn't been impressed because she didn't come from a rich family at all. But overtime he eventually came around and was a bit nicer towards her. But she knew that he still hoped for his son to marry a Chinese born woman from a wealthy family.

However, Shan had made it quite clear that he had choose Marinette over those other high class or wealthy Chinese women that his father often set him up with. He reasoned that Marinette made him both happy and a better person.

"Yes, he's been wanting to meet the woman and I quote 'that has captured my grandson's heart'."

"Really he said that?"

"Well he said attention, but I added heart in there to sound better. You know my history, I'm afraid."

"That you are-

"Were." He corrected.

"A player that probably had an affair or fling at least every other month." He sighed.

"Hey, give me some credit here, I went almost a year without dating anyone as I was trying to impress you. And we have been dating for almost a year now by the way." He pointed out. She rolled her eyes.

"I guess that is some kind of record, huh? Though I still can't believe you tried to claim that day at the beach was a date."

"It so was!"

"No, it wasn't you didn't ask me out that time."

"I believe I said, 'want to come to the beach with me?' And you said sure."

"That wasn't a date, that was hanging out." He opened his mouth to protest yet again. "And don't say that because we had wine that it counts as a date." He huffed in protest as he pulled out his wallet to pay the check. She still laughed when he claimed that was a date, the two had gone to hang out at the beach after both having bad days. He brought a bottle of wine, to which the two drank and just talked. She looked at fondly, as a day they started getting to know one another.

When Shan finished paying the bill, he and Marinette went back to the Agreste Fashion agency. They paused outside of the agency, and she turned to him as he was checking his phone.

"Looks like I should be getting back to work too." He informed as he showed her a billion texts from his father asking him about his work and giving him a list of things to do. "I swear not even in Paris for half a day and he is blowing up my phone with work related texts not even a 'Hi son, how are you? How was the plane ride?' just 'Did you meet with the company in Paris?'" Shan huffed in frustration and typed a quick reply before looking down at her.

"Guess we both have to get back to work now, I am actually finishing up the last few things for the Fall fashion show coming up."

"You're doing all that by yourself?"

"Well no, Adrien-a friend of mine is helping me." She answered.

"Adrien? Adrien Agreste, that friend you talk about?" She nodded.

"Actually, he's probably already here waiting, if you want you can meet him?" His phone dinged again. "If you have time that is," She explained.

"I would love to meet one of your friends, but if I don't take care of this now, I'm afraid that my father's just going to continue blowing up my phone."

"True, you could turn it off."

"Oh, then I would never hear the end of it. My father would fire-actually maybe I will. Considering it would mean that he would stop pestering me to join the family business." She laughed.

"Always the rebel," He shrugged.

"What can I say I've always been the one for breaking the rules." He said with a chuckle, he gave her a kiss on the cheek as a goodbye. She grinned.

"Will I see you tonight?" He asked.

"I was going to see my mom tonight." She replied.

"Do you want me to come with you?" She paused at his words. If he came that would mean meeting her parents. And there was just one little problem with that, the fact that her parents didn't know of his existence. She had never told her parents that she was seeing someone back in Shanghai, much less that they were serious and exclusively dating.

Only Alya knew and she had only told her few days ago. This caused her to think back to Alya's words about Adrien. 'He's been through a lot Marinette, don't hurt him okay?' Even though she still was skeptical about Adrien's feelings toward her, she did feel like she owed him an explanation in case she had been giving mis-signals. But why did she feel strange about the idea of telling him? Or her parents for that matter? Did she feel guilty? She shook her head when Shan called her name again.

"Hey, you still there, you just kind of froze up. Is this about meeting your parents? I mean I'm not trying to pressure you or anything, but we have been dating for a year now and you've met mine. Shouldn't I meet yours now?" She bit her lip.

"Ah, well you see…I sort of-didn'tmentionyoutomyparents." She blurted out all at once. He raised an eyebrow and stared at her.

"Say that one more time," She opened her mouth to say it again. "Slower this time,"

"I didn't mention you to my parents. Well I did! But I didn't tell them that we were dating." He blinked as he processed what she had said.

"So, let me get this straight, we have been dating for a year now. And we are together in an established relationship." She bit her lip seeing where he was going with this. "And you didn't think to mention to your parents the next time you chatted over the phone, 'hey by the way I am in an exclusive relationship now.'?" Marinette sighed.

"I was planning on telling them, when it was the right time." She attempted to explain.

"The right time? Marinette, we have been dating for almost a little over a year now. How could you not find a moment to tell them?"

"I don't know! I just never got around to it." He huffed in frustration and shook his head.

"Marinette just be honest, are you ashamed of me?"

"What? No! I just-my relationship with my parents is really complicated right now and has been for as long as I've been Shanghai. I mean I haven't been home since I was like sixteen. And sometimes it's hard to talk to them." Shan thought for a moment then sighed.

"Well if anyone can understand complicated family relationships, it's me. But I just wanted you to want me to meet your family like I wanted you to." He explained. Marinette gazed up at him with a look of understanding. "I wanted my family to get to know the woman I'm crazy about." She smiled at his words as she reached out and squeezed his hand in response.

"Look I'll talk to my parents about it tonight when I see them at the hospital. I'll try to arrange some sort of 'meet the boyfriend dinner'." She joked. He snorted at that comment. Then looked at her with wonder.

"You will?" She nodded. He raised an eyebrow expectantly. She rolled her eyes in response.

"I promise." She pecked him on cheek and with that the two of them bid one another goodbye.

100 years ago, in China:

Fu Wang: 13 years old

Senior Brother: 15 years old

Sitting on the steps of one of the corridors, Fu Wang played with the frog that he had found by one of the ponds that was in the courtyard. Fu Wang loved animals and would often bring them into the temple until his teachers and the monks would tell him that he had to return the animal where he found it.

Suddenly the frog hopped away from him and began leaping away. He scrambled to catch up to it, when he heard the sound of a few clean swipes. He turned and paused in chase to stare at the two swordsmen sparring with one another.

It was then that he realized that it was Senior brother sparring with another member of their order studying to become a Guardian. He watched in awe, as he watched his brother fight the other. Since living and studying here at the temple of the Guardians, Senior brother had advanced in his skills. He was an excellent swordsman and marital arts student.

Sometimes Fu Wang was jealous but how quickly he was able to learn a new skill. It made him feel irrelevant compared to him. He watched as the two boy's swords clashed against one another. His brother moved like a snake, he slide sideways and evaded a attack easily. But his strikes were also precise, quick and unknown of when he would strike.

With one last move, Senior brother knocked the other boy backwards and kicked the sword away from him. A final move of defeat for the boy, Senior brother sheathed his sword on his back and then helped the other up. Both bowed with one of their hands cupping their fists. A sign of respect and a good fight.

One of the monks as well as teachers stood up and addressed Senior brother with a smile.

"Zhuóyuè de gōngzuò, yīrújìwǎng. Nǐ de jìnbù yuǎn yuǎn chāoguò wǒ xùnliànguò de qítā xuéshēng. Yánzhe zhè tiáo lù zǒu xiàqù, wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ kěnéng shì yīgè gèng hǎo de shǒuhù zhě." (Excellent work as always. You have advanced far more quickly then any other student I've trained. Continue down this path and I'm sure you may be an even better Guardian then I am.) The teacher praised him. "Rúguǒ zhǐyǒu nǐ de xiōngdì hé nǐ yīyàng hǎo." (If only your brother was as good as you.) He added as he ended the class.

Fu Wang looked down at the ground, he wished he could be as good of a student like Senior brother. He wanted nothing more than to be a Guardian too, but he kept messing up at every turn.

"Hēi, bùyào tīng tā de." (Hey, don't listen to him.) He looked up at Senior brother who had grown another inch or two taller now and so had he. But he still had to look up at him. Senior brother put his hand on his shoulder. "Nǐ jiāng xuéxí, yǒu yītiān nǐ jiāng chéngwéi yī míng wěidà de shǒuhù zhě. Nǐ bìxū nàixīn děngdài, màn man lái. Dàn wǒ zhīdào nǐ kěyǐ zuò dào." (You will learn, and you will be a great Guardian someday. You just have to be patient and take your time. But I know you can do it.)

Fu Wang looked up at him for reassurance.

"Nǐ zhēn de zhème rènwéi?" (You really think so?) He asked.

"Wǒ bù rènwéi. Wǒ zhīdào." (I don't think. I know.) He replied.

"Nǐ zěnme zhīdào de?" (How do you know?) Fu Wang questioned his abilities and himself every day. He often wondered if the Master had made a mistake in thinking he was capable as well as worthy of being a Guardian.)

"Yīnwèi wǒ kěyǐ kàn dào nǐ duì chéngwéi yī míng shǒuhù zhě de rèqíng. Nǐ bāngzhù tārén de yìzhì hé rèqíng shì jiānbùkěcuī de, yǒu yītiān nǐ huì chéngwéi yīgè wěidà de shǒuhù zhě." (Because I can see how passionate you are about becoming a Guardian. Your will and passion to help others is unbreakable and is what will make you a great Guardian someday.)

"Xièxiè gāojí xiōngdì." Fu Wang thanked his Senior brother, who smiled and ruffled his hair before heading towards the baths in need of a good cleaning.

Fu Wang sighed; Senior brother was always looking out for him. He sometimes wished he could be more like him, and a part of him wanted to be him. Everybody liked him, he was skilled and seemed almost perfect at everything he did. While Fu Wang was always screwing up, and almost always failing.

Making his way to the other side of the temple, he noticed Master Jun Li reading through some scrolls. Fu Wang grinned and ran towards him.

"Master Jun Li!" He called. The old Master turned to face Fu Wang and gave a soft smile in response.

"Nǐ hǎo fúwáng, nǐ hǎo ma? Méiyǒu yù dào máfan, jīntiān shì wǒmen ma?" (Hello Fu Wang, how are you? Not getting into trouble, today are we?) He questioned. Whenever he would get into trouble, he would either run to Senior brother or Master Jun Li for help.

Master Jun Li treated Fu Wang kindly and Fu Wang couldn't help but look at him like the father that he never had. Many of the grumpy old monks that didn't like him, were often annoyed by how Master Jun Li seemed to have a soft spot for him and Senior brother.

"Bù, xiānshēng, wǒ xīwàng wǒ néng hé nǐ yīqǐ qù kàn kàn Kwamis." (No sir, I was hoping to see the Kwamis again.) He used his best sad yet adorable expression that he could in order to persuade Master Jun Li to allow him to.

The old man let out a chuckle and sighed.

"Nǐ zǒng shì xiǎng kàn kàn Kwamis, nándào nǐ bùxiǎng huā shíjiān yǔ nǐ zhège niánlíng de qítā nánhái yīqǐ wán ér bùshì Kwami ma?" (You always want to see the Kwamis, don't you want to spend time playing with other boys your age instead of Kwamis?) He questioned.

Fu Wang's only response was to look down at his feet. Master Jun Li seemed to understand in that moment and decided to drop the subject.

"Hěn hǎo, wǒ xiǎng wǒmen kěyǐ qù fángjiān kàn kàn Kwami." (Very well, I suppose we can take a trip to the chamber to see the Kwami.)
Fu Wang grinned in response and followed eagerly behind Master Jun Li. When they arrived at the room, Master Jun Li raised his hand to the wall and whispered a few ancient words in Chinese, a slight blue glow outlined his hand. A set of symbols appeared before they disappeared once again and opened to reveal a staircase that descended into the crypt.

The old master and student descended the stairs to the ancient study/library. It was full of so many scrolls and secrets. Master Jun Li stepped in front of one of the walls and whispered a set of words again, before a square part of the wall fell forward to reveal a hexagonal box.
The box opened and inside appeared hundreds of jewelry or valuable devices known as the Miraculous. Fu Wang grinned and reached out to take the Chinese engraved green bracelet. He was particularly fond of that one due to its Kwami.

As soon his fingers touched the bracelet, it glowed green before in blink of an eye a green turtle Kwami floated above his hand. He grinned as the Kwami yawned and shook its head trying to focus. He must have been resting.

When the Kwami noticed him, he floated over to him and hugged his nose.

"Zǎoshang, xuéshēng fù wáng." (Morning, student Fu Wang)

"Zǎoshang Wayzz," (Morning Wayzz) The small kwami floated around his head and they both laughed before the kwami turned to bow to Master Jun Li.

"Zhǔ." (Master.) Wayzz bowed in respect. Master Jun Li nodded, before another word could be uttered, the door opened and one of the monks entered explaining quickly in
Chinese that Master Jun Li was needed as one of the Guardians had returned with some important information.

Master Jun Li nodded and turned to Fu Wang. He gave him quick instructions not to take the Kwami out of the chamber and that when he was finished playing with Wayzz he needed to put the Miraculous stones back and seal it up.

So here he was playing with Wayzz, his only friend and companion besides his adoptive brother that is. He had always found a real connection with the kwami rather than another boy his age. And Wayzz was quite fond of the human boy.

When he realized it was getting close to dinner time, he fed Wayzz some seaweed that he found in the underground library and then sealed the Miraculous Stone box away. Fu Wang dreaded eating with the other boys, due to Senior brother's new ranking he wouldn't be sitting at the same table anymore but with the older boys that were higher up then him. Fu Wang wanted nothing more than to join his brother and become a skilled great Guardian like his brother was on his way to being.
He was just about to leave when he heard a voice.

"Guānkàn bìng bù róngyì, yīnwèi tā huòdéle suǒyǒu de zànyù hé cáinéng?" (It's not easy watching as he gets all the praise and talents is it?) A voice echoed in his mind. He was confused, was he going crazy. "Wǒ míngbái nà shì shénme yàng de. Wǒ yǒu yīgè xiōngdì, tā hěn xìngyùn, méiyǒu qítā rén. Měi gèrén dōu ài tā, ér wǒ què bèi rén kànbùqǐ." (I understand what that's like. I had a brother to, and he was blessed with talent like no other. Everyone loved him, while I was looked down upon in my family.)

Fu Wang followed the sound of the voice and noticed a corridor he had never seen before. He had never journeyed to farther into the depths of the ancient library that was hidden beneath the temple. Only the monks, masters, and students knew of the secret. But it had been one that was not even passed down in the legends, myths and stories.
He noticed a door that had been closed tightly, but something possess him a sense of curiosity tempted him. Even though his sub conscious told him that this was not a door he should open, he did anyway. Entering the chamber he glanced around only to see nothing but a spacious room. That is until he noticed in the far of the chamber, was a cage with what appeared to be a dragon bound in chains.

"Nǐ shì shéi?" (Who are you?) Fu Wang stared at the small dragon that was only as big as a tiger. For he was not as large or ferocious as Fu Wang had believed dragons to be. He looked depressed, weak and old. His scales were starting to fall off and though he was alive he seemed to be in a way dying.

"Wǒ shì zhì, lóng hé shān de jīngshén. Zhǐyào wǒ jìdé, wǒ jiù bèi kùn zài zhège lóngzi lǐ. Sēnglǚmen zhǐshì bǎ wǒ dàng zuò mófǎ hé lìliàng de láiyuán. Ó, dàn wǒ kěwàng zìyóu, bìng yǔ xiōngdì jiěmèimen tuánjù." (I am Chi, the dragon and spirit of the mountain. I've been trapped in this cage for as long as I can remember. The monks merely use me as a source of magic and power. Oh, but I long to be free and reunite with my fellow brothers and sisters.) The dragon communicated his thoughts with him telepathically.

Fu Wang looked at the dragon with sad eyes.

"Āi, dàn nà yītiān bù huì lái. Dàn yěxǔ wǒ kěyǐ bāngzhù nǐ jiějué wèntí. Zuòwéi jiāohuàn, huòxǔ nǐ kěyǐ bāngzhù wǒ zhǎodào yī zhǒng fāngfǎ lái dǎpò zhège kěpà de zhòuyǔ, zhèyàng wǒ jiù kěyǐ yǔ jiārén tuánjù." (Alas, but that day won't come. But perhaps I can help you with your problem. And in exchange perhaps you can help me find a way to break this dreadful spell so that I may reunite with my family.)

"Nǐ shénme yìsi?" (What do you mean?) Fu Wang couldn't help but ask what the ancient dragon could have possibly meant by helping him. He was a dragon; how could he possibly help him with his problem. It's not like he could magically make him a great Guardian already with his skills.

"Wǒ néng jiào nǐ. Zhàndòu, yǐjí suǒyǒu shǒuwèi xúnqiú de zhīshì." (I can teach you. To fight, and the knowledge that all Guardians seek.) He continued. "Wǒ kěyǐ bāngzhù nǐ biàn dé xiàng nǐ de xiōngdì yīyàng shúliàn, shènzhì chāoguò tā de jìnéng. Rúguǒ zhè jiùshì nǐ xiǎng yào de, wǒ kěyǐ ràng nǐ gèng qiángdà, gèng cōngmíng." (I could help you become as skilled as your brother or even surpass him in his skills and abilities. I can make you stronger and wiser if that is what you want.)

"Nǐ kěyǐ jiào wǒ ma? Ràng wǒ gèng jiānqiáng?" (You could teach me and make me stronger?)

"Shì de, wǒ zhīdào chéng qiān shàng wàn zhǒng bùtóng de wǔshù xíngshì hé shǐyòng jiàn de fāngfǎ. Suízhe duì shìjiè de wúxiàn liǎojiě. Wǒ yǐjīng huóle yīqiān duō niánle." (Yes, I have the knowledge of thousands of different martial arts forms and ways to use a sword. Along with infinite knowledge of the world. I have lived for over a thousand years.)
Fu Wang's mouth dropped at this realization. This creature was a spirit and it was locked away for the monks to use as a power source. But why would the monks hide him, and not explain who this creature was to them? They were taught to respect ancient spirits, and many of them were dragons. Perhaps they were hiding him because they didn't want students to know that they treated a creature so cruelly this way.

"Dǎkāi wǒ zìjǐ de nánhái ba. Wǒ kěyǐ xiàng nǐ bǎozhèng, nǐ jiāng chéngwéi yǒushǐ yǐlái zuì wěidà de shǒuhù zhě." (Open yourself to me my boy. And I can promise you that you will become the greatest of all Guardians there ever were.)

Alya's POV

Alya scrolled through image after image on her laptop. She had been studying these photos for the last few hours. She was sure there had to be something in there that she was missing but what. The photos that she was looking at were from May of 2017 when Ladybug and Chat Noir had defeated Hawkmoth and saved the people of Paris.

She was sure that there must have been something in there, a clue perhaps to why Ladybug might have left. Alya began searching through different articles on the web, she suddenly stopped when she came across a certain link.

'Unknown jumper jumps off the Eiffel Tower during the fight between the superheroes Ladybug and Chat Noir and super villain, Hawkmoth.'

She clicked on the link and started reading. She wondered why she hadn't known about this supposed jumper. As she scrolled through the article, she found a video. Clicking on it, there was a reporter speaking, but she didn't see anything unusual. Until she noticed the Eiffel Tower in the background where the fight was happening.

Alya had to pause it a few times as it was playing, and just barely saw the figure falling from the Eiffel Tower. But sure enough, someone had jumped off the Eiffel Tower. She sat back her chair thinking for a moment. Why was this never really reported? The only evidence is on the video.

She started to type on her laptop again searching for this answer. It was frustrating she wasn't finding anything helpful. Until she read through comments, where someone explained that the jumper had been unidentified due to their family not wanting to explain the reasons behind their death and who that person was. Feeling that it was disrespectful.

Alya huffed, she was journalist and like always she was hell bent on finding out the truth. And she was sure that this was a lead. A clue to Ladybug's disappearance, she doubted that she left because she wanted to or out of fear of Hawkmouth. It just didn't make sense to her. Glancing at her phone, she grabbed her things and decided to use her lunch break as a time to investigate the Eiffel Tower where the battle had taken place.

Even if it had been five years, she was determined to find out what Ladybug was hiding.

Adrien's POV

Plagg sighed happily as he munched on his camembert cheese. He was sitting on Marinette's desk stuffing his face whilst Adrien was going through the list of requirements for the fashion show this Saturday. But he was finding it difficult to concentrate after his conversation with Nino and Kim.

He was having a hard time wrapping his head around the idea that Marinette had a crush on him back in their school days. The fashion show was causing him to recall a memory when he had offered for her to see his father's show, back when Style Queen had turned him into a golden statue. It was when he had assumed that Marinette only was a fan of his father's work and a supportive friend to him.

But since he was older now, he seemed to be looking at things from a different perspective. The possibility that Marinette had a crush on him back then was slowly becoming more believable. However, what stopped him was the fact that this was five years ago, and they had both changed so much.

Was he silly to think that there might be a chance she could feel the same way? He reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. Glancing down at his now opened wallet, lie two tickets to a Jagged Stone concert. He had always remembered that Marinette had also been a big Jagged Stone fan. Since he had become a friend to Jagged Stone, he was able to pull some strings and procure two tickets to see him in concert.

Plagg noticed his chosen's lack of response.

"Kid, if you keep thinking about it then you might over think things." Adrien sighed and closed his wallet before placing it in his back pocket once again.

"What am I doing Plagg? I mean now that her Mom's better there's nothing to keep her from going back and resuming her life in Shanghai." Adrien huffed in frustration as he ran his finger through his hair and sat back in the desk chair. It wasn't like he didn't know that Marinette's stay here was only temporary, but he hadn't expected his feelings for her to grow strong in that length of time.

Plagg felt bad for his chosen but at the same time he didn't want to encourage him either. He was aware through Tikki that there was another man in Marinette or Ladybug's life right now. And yet again left the two in a situation that would lead to heartbreak, but only Adrien would bear the pain yet again. Perhaps he should tell him, to cause him less pain. Plagg really didn't like interfering in others lives, and he didn't want show that he cared for Adrien because he couldn't afford it after so many past Chat Noirs.

Plagg came to a decision and decided it was best that Adrien was made aware of the situation before things got any worse. "Listen Adrien-

He was interrupted by the sound of the doorknob turning and in the next second Plagg blurred into Adrien's jacket pocket just as Marinette swung open the door. Adrien made a glance around before grabbing the clipboard again and making himself look busy. Marinette finally looked up at him when she dropped her bag onto the couch pressed to one side of the room.

"Hey," She greeted him with a small smile and wave. She seemed a little cheery, probably something to do with her mother's survival. He was happy to see her in better spirits, as she had been so broken yesterday that he had been afraid to leave her. "How's the fashion show preparation coming?" She asked as she made her way over to the desk, raising her eyebrows in question.

"Ah good-good, just checking off the things we have done and determining what else we have to do." He replied. Marinette grinned, happy to hear that things were coming along for the fashion show. Before he could say anything more, she swapped the clipboard from his hands to read over it.

"Let's see, make sure all the designs are in proper order of showing," She continued to read off the list before turning to him. "Wow still have quite a big to do, don't we?" Adrien shrugged.

"It might seem like a lot, but it's actually just little things that make the overall show happen. Whether that's lighting, seating or even make up, everything must be perfect as my father has always payed attention to detail…" He trailed off at the mention of his father. And Marinette frowned as if the mention of his father had reminded her of something. He thought perhaps she was going to say something, but he changed the subject not wanting to talk about his father.

"So, when will you be able to visit your mom, now that she has recovered?" Adrien inquired.

"Later tonight, I'm excited but nervous as this will be the first time seeing her in almost a year. As it's hard to visit one another when we live thousands of miles apart and flights are so expensive as it is." Marinette explained. He had forgotten how far China was from Europe, and how expensive it must be. Not to mention international phone calls, must be just as expensive and hard to find the perfect time to call considering the time differences.

"I'm sure everything will turn out fine. Your mom will probably be happy to see you honestly since she doesn't get to see you often." He assures. The raven-haired designer frowns at his words knowing the implication of them.

"Right…" She trailed off. Adrien glanced at her as she suddenly appeared distracted by her thoughts once again. The idea of her leaving Paris again to return to Shanghai continued to nag at him and before he could stop himself, he blurted his thoughts out to her. "What?" She asked confused after she had been so lost in her thoughts.

"When will you be returning to Shanghai?" She paused taking in his words and thought for a moment.

"I'm not sure yet, first I just need to make sure that my mom and dad will be okay here." She explained. He nodded in understanding. She bit her lip and fiddled with her fingers as if almost nervous?

"Adrien, were friends, right?" She began.

"Huh?" He found the question rather strange as he thought the answer was obvious. "Of course," He said. She took a deep breath and turned to look at him in the eye.

"You have been so kind to me since I've come back, I hope I haven't led you…astray." She trailed off and Adrien was starting to become more confused.

"Astray?" He questioned wondering where she was going with this.

"Listen Adrien, I feel that there's something I should tell you about my life back in Shanghai-

She's cut off by what sounds like thunder, followed by the shaking of the ground. The two of them stumble, and instinctively grab onto each other for support.

"What was that?" Marinette couldn't help but ask not even a second later. Adrien shook his head.

"I don't know," It was then that they both glanced at one another only to come to realize their rather intimate position. Marinette had grasped onto Adrien's forearms while Adrien holding her protectively to him. The moment was over in less than a second, as the two separated from one another.

"Sorry," Marinette apologized for clinging onto him like some scared little girl. He opened his mouth to assure her when they began hearing shouts outside the office.

"Oh my god!"

"Do you see that?!"

"The building just exploded!"

"Someone call the police!"

Adrien and Marinette glanced at one another then ran out of the office to find many other employees looking outside the window where smoke was raising from a building. And Marinette's heart dropped at the sight. It was not building, it was the hospital where her mother was currently enrolled in as a patient.

Adrien eyes widened in shock when he found that it was the hospital that was not only holding Marinette's mother, but Master Fu as well. He had to get transform and get to the hospital, he couldn't help the bad feeling that he had in his gut. Telling him that something bad was going to happen.
The two of them turned to one another at the same time.

"My mom," Marinette said with worry. Adrien turned to her.

"Marinette listen to me; your mom will be fine. Chat Noir, Carapace and…Ladybug will save her. Trust me, it's best that you go home."

"But-

"Your mom wouldn't want you putting your life in danger. I have to go." She stared after him, confused but after a moment she nodded. He took off running down the hall and
pulled out his phone dialing Nino's number.

"Come on, come on Nino pick up." He said irritably. After a few more rings, Nino finally answered.

"Hello? Adrien?"

"Nino, the Moni Cheng have made their appearance, attacking Paris once again." He muttered into the phone as he passed many employees running all over the building in a panic, trying to leave. He looked around for a bathroom or an area with no prying eyes so that he may transform.

"What?!"

"Yes," Adrien confirmed as he ran into an empty office and shut the door along with the curtains. "But we have an even bigger problem."

100 years ago, China

Fu Wang: 14 years old

Senior brother: 16 years old

The sound of swords clashing filled the air as two figures were currently sparring one another. Fu Wang deflected another attack from his opponent easily, and studied his movements waiting for the opportune moment to strike as he remembered his words in training. 'Do not put so much energy into one attack, instead focus on hitting a few pressure points. Then once you have them in a vulnerable position, deliver the final blow.'

Fu Wang saw an opening and when the other boy engaged in his final attack; Fu Wang swung his sword with enough force to knock out the other sword in his hand. Leaving him defenseless, Fu Wang spun around and kicked his foot out into the other's chest that causing him to be knocked backward and land on his back with a thud followed by a grunt of pain.

Just as the boy was coming to and attempting to get back up to fight, he found Fu Wang's blade an inch from his nose. He stayed down a sign of his surrender.

Fu Wang smiled and turned to face their teacher. He folded one of his hands into a fist and cupped it with the other. Then bowed to the master and monk before him, a sign of respect. The old monk stroked his beard studying him as if considering his victory. Finally, he spoke,

"Zuò dé hǎo de xuéshēng fù wáng, nǐ de jìnéng jìnbù hěn kuài. Kàn lái nǐ xiànzài zhōngyú rènzhēn duìdài nǐ de xuéyèle." (Well done pupil Fu Wang, your skills have advanced quite quickly. It seems you are finally taking your studies seriously now.) He said with a smile.

Over the course of the last few months Fu Wang had been advancing in his training rather quickly than usual for him. Many thought it was strange at first, but overtime grew to accept that maybe all of his practice was finally paying off. Proving that he was meant to be there and become a guardian.

As supper was served to the boys, Fu Wang sat down at his table with a bowl of rice and cooked veggies. It was always a very simple meal, and he couldn't complain. He no longer felt pathetic or beneath others. He finally felt like he was accepted as an equal like Senior brother.

The thought of Senior brother though caused Fu Wang to glance over at him. Over the last few months during his advancement, his brother seemed to be rather distant. Senior brother seemed to envy his younger brother's newfound skills and abilities in his studies. Specifically, martial arts and swordsmanship. Though he tried his best to not show it and be supportive, he couldn't help but feel slight jealousy toward him at his growing popularity and skills. But he also was rather curious about how Fu Wang came to advance in his studies so quickly.

Now the two brothers weren't really speaking to one another. There seemed to be a rift between them that was slowly expanding everyday they continued to ignore one another.

Fu Wang wanted his brother back, but after the argument the two had that night things were still a bit tense between them. The young boy thought for a moment, they couldn't go on this way forever. Perhaps he should attempt to mend things with him.

The hardest part was keeping his teacher a secret. He was afraid that if anyone knew he was being taught by the great dragon spirit Chi then they would hurt him. He was sure that the monks were hiding something if they hadn't told them of this creature that resided below the temple.

Just as he stood and made his way over to Senior brother, there was a scream. It caused everyone to turn to the person that had shouted.

All the students surrounded a monk that was leaning over a boy with a knife in hand and blood dripping from it. The monk's mouth twitched into a crooked smile, one that sent chills down Fu Wang's spine. A monk had just slaughtered a boy around his age, and he looked as though he was ready to have a go at another.

"Geming nǐ zuòle shénme? Zhè shì shénme yìsi?!" (Geming, what have you done? What is the meaning of this?!) Master Jun Li demanded as he and the other monks stood and watched in horror as the middle-aged monk looked to him.

"Wǒ zuòle shénme? Nǐ zuòle shénme? Tāmen yīnggāi bèi yòng lái gǎishàn shìjiè de qíjī. Bù bèi suǒdìng zhǐ bèi yòng yú èmó wèi bèi shìfàng. Nándào nǐ bù juédé wǒmen kěyǐ yòng shénqí de dōngxī chuàngzào yīgè hépíng de shìjiè." (What have I done? What have you done? The miraculouses should be used to better the world. Not be locked away and only be used a demon is unleased. Don't you see we could create a world of peace by using the miraculous.)

Fu Wang stared at the monk who had a crazy look in his eye, as they noticed that he was not the only one. Six out of the twelve monks had betrayed the temple of the Guardians and believed in a new age.

"Wúlùn rúhé, wǒ xiànzài yǒngyǒu yǔzhòu zhōng de suǒyǒu lìliàng." (No matter, I have all the power in the universe now.) Geming claimed as he turned to other monks in league with him.

Master Jun Li's eyes widened in shock and then horror when the other monk revealed the hexagonal box in his hands. He watched as Geming opened the box and motioned to take the Miraculous of Creation and Destruction. The most powerful and ancient of the Miraculouses.

If he combined them together, he would achieve absolute power and then he would be unstoppable. In an instant Master Jun Li sprang into action and used a spell to send an attacker flying. Geming, had nearly combined the pieces of the miraculous together, when Master Jun Li used his marital art abilities to knock the miraculous out of his hands.

The miraculous of Creation and Destruction separated, causing them to go flying into the air above them. Both of them sprang into action, attempting to be faster than the other in obtaining the Miraculous. Master Jun Li grasped the earrings of Creation but failed to grab the ring of Destruction.

He turned to face Geming, who smiled wickedly at him as he slid the miraculous ring on his finger. In response to his motion, the ring began to glow, a mix of black and green. The black cat Kwami appeared before him.

"Gǔlǎo de jīngshén hé hǔnluàn yǔ huǐmiè zhī shén shòuyǔ wǒ nǐ de lìliàng, yǐbiàn wǒ wánchéng wǒ de rènwù. Gǎibiàn wǒ ba!" (Ancient spirit and god of chaos and destruction grant me your power so that I may complete my quest. Transform me!)

Master Jun Li frowned watching as the bright light engulfed him and shaped him into a superhuman being with the power of destruction.

"Shǒuhù zhě, huòdé shénqí." (Guardians, obtain the miraculous.) Master Jun Li commanded. Immediately the still loyal monks acted and attacked the traitors. Students either went to hide or joined the fray against the traitorous monks.

Fu Wang watched as Senior brother joined Master Jun Li in fighting Geming. Both determined to defeat him. He could see that Geming and his followers had the advantage, however. With the miraculous giving him incredible power, he had become stronger, faster and more powerful.

He watched as Senior brother was knocked to the side by Geming and knew there had to be something that he could do. He feared that they wouldn't live. It was then he recalled that the dragon spirit Chi was under the temple and that no doubt he might be willing to help save the temple. As he was sure that the dragon didn't want to be left there forever or crushed by the temple coming down.

Racing through the courtyard, he scrambled up the steps to the building that hid the entrance to the library beneath the temple. After going through many of the complicated locks on the doors, to keep people out, Fu Wang had finally was able to enter the secret chamber. As soon as he made it to the library he raced over to the hidden door and unlocked it like he had done many times during the night to practice and learn his abilities from Chi.

Entering the secret room, he was faced Chi who was already expecting him, having heard the commotion going on above with his magical abilities.

"Zhì! Sìmiào shòudào gōngjí! Wèile gèrén lìyì hé lǐxiǎng, yīxiē sēnglǚ bèipànle wǒmen. Geming, tā shì sēnglǚ zhī yī, yǒngyǒu zuì qiáng dà de qíjī zhī yī! Gàosù wǒ chúle dài zǒu wǒmen wúfǎ jiēchù de jièzhǐ zhī wài, hái yǒu bànfǎ zǔzhǐ tā." (Chi! The temple is under attack! Some of the monks have betrayed us, for their own personal gain and ideals. Geming, one of the monks he has the one of the most powerful miraculouses! Tell me there has to be a way to stop him besides taking away the ring which we can't get to.)

"Wǒ zhīdào, tā yǒngyǒu huǐmiè de qíjī. Pòhuài hé hǔnluàn de gǔlǎo lìliàng dǎozhì dìzhèn, huǒshān bàofā, měi cì dōu yǒu yīgè xīn de kāishǐ. Bùxìng de shì, rúguǒ tā dédào chuàngzào lì de qíjī, nà jiù méiyǒu shé me kěyǐ zǔzhǐ tāle. Wèile duìkàng tā, rénmen bìxū yǒngyǒu xiāngtóng de lìliàng hé lìliàng cáinéng yǒu jīhuì duìfù tāmen." (I am aware, he possesses the miraculous of Destruction. The ancient power of destruction and chaos that has caused earthquakes, volcanoes to erupt and each time a new beginning with it. Unfortnately there is nothing that can stop him, if he gets his hands on its counterpart the Miraculous of Creation. To fight him, one would have to have possess the same strength and power in order to stand a chance against them.)

Fu Wang thought for a moment. There was no way that they would be able to get the other Miraculouses from Gyming, as he possesses the box that held all of them. Not to mention the fact that he was wielding one of the most powerful of them currently, besides the Miraculous of Creation. Fu Wang studied the immortal creature in front of him, he realized that Chi may be the only being able to take on the monk possessing the power of destruction.

"Chi, nǐ néng tíngzhǐ Gyming ma? Píngjiè tā huòdé de xīn fāxiàn de lìliàng hé nénglì?" (Chi, could you stop Gyming? With his newfound power and abilities that he has obtained?) The slits in Chi's eyes narrowed as he looked down at Fu Wang.

"Huòxǔ, bìjìng wǒ shì yīgè bùxiǔ de rén, zuìzhōng huì yǒngyuǎn cuīhuǐ wǒ." (Perhaps, I am an immortal being after all and it would take a lot to ultimately destroy me forever.)
Fu Wang began scrambling over the various books that he had used when studying spells with Chi that he kept hidden with a cloaking spell. As he continued to speak.

"Wèile shìfàng shǒuhù shéndiàn, wǒ xūyào bèisòng shénme zhòuyǔ yǐ shìfàng nǐ?" (What spell do I need to recite in order to free you so that you can save the Guardian's temple?)

"Zhè běn shū zhōng de zhòuyǔ jiāng ràng wǒ zìyóu. Nǐ suǒyào zuò de jiùshì tígōng xīshēng, mǒu zhǒng xiǎo chǎnpǐn. Nǐ de xiěyè huì hěn hǎo, zhǐshì jiāng yīxiē xiěyè dī zài wǒ de suǒliàn shàng, ránhòu bèisòng zhèxiē dāncí." (The spell in this book, will set me free. All you have to do is make a small offering of your blood. Place it over the chains, a few drops will do and recite the spell.)

Fu Wang glanced down at the ancient slightly faded away writing from the book. He gathered that the book had seen its fair shares of lifetimes. In one swift move he unsheathed his sword and made a small cut in his palm. He gritted his teeth trying to withstand the pain, then clenched his hand into a fist to drip the blood over the chains that trapped the spirit dragon.

Then he proceeded to recite the ancient spell,

"Fàngzhì zài zhège shàng de bǎng dìng yìngcóng liàn zhōng shìfàng chūlái. Ràng wǒ de xiěyè, ránshāo hé rónghuà shǐ zhège shēngwù bǎochí zài hǎiwān de liàntiáo. Wǒ bǎ nǐ cóng zhège lóngzhàozhe nǐ de jiānyù lǐ shìfàng chūlái." (The binding that was placed upon this being, shall be released from its chains. Let the offering of my blood, burn the chains that have kept this creature at bay. I release you from this prison that has caged you.)

Just as Fu Wang had finished reciting the words, a flash of light erupted into his line of view. Followed by a burst of energy, that the force alone caused his back to collide with the chamber wall with a thud. He groaned and rolled over just as he heard someone's voice.

"Méiyǒu! Nǐ zuòle shénme?!" (No! What have you done?!) Fu Wang turned his head to find the monk Yat-Sen standing there gazing at the smoke left behind from the explosion of energy. The young boy noticed how pale his teacher's face had gotten, as his eyes widened horror at the sight before him. Fu Wang followed his gaze and noticed the fully transformed dragon. He was no longer small and had grown at least ten times his size. He towered over them now and his eyes glowed a vibrant green.
Fu Wang glanced down at the chains that had been shattered to pieces by Chi, and his now freed spirit.

"Zuìhòu, wǒ yǒu kòng. Xiànzài wǒ kěyǐ shìfàng wǒ de zhǔrén, wǒmen jiāng gòngtóng duì shìjiè zàochéng yánzhòng pòhuài. Dàn shǒuxiān, wǒ jiāng bǎituō shǒuhù zhě de shìjiè, bìng wèi wǒ de zhǔrén dài lái qíjī." (At last, I am free. Now I can free my master and together we will wreak havoc on the world. But first, I shall rid the world of Guardians and take the Miraculous for my Master.)

Fu Wang stared up at him with wide eyes, before realization dawned on him. He had been tricked into believing that this dragon spirit was his friend, and that he was good. He stared unable to do anything as he watched the ancient dragon spirit raise its head and took a deep breath before opening his mouth to unleash his fiery breath on the unexpecting monk.

"Méiyǒu!" (NO!) Fu Wang cried as he watched the monk be burned to death where he stood. As the flames dispersed, all that was left was a burnt crisp of a man. He shook his head, his eyes welling in tears as he witnessed the death of his teacher. The body slowly collapsed in dust, leaving nothing but waste behind.

Before Fu Wang could utter a word to the ancient dragon spirit, he moved up to the ceiling where he forcefully broke through to climb to the surface.
Fu Wang cried out as he nearly lost his footing from the movement. Once he found his footing he glanced up in time to see the last of the dragon's tail as he climbed above to the surface. The young Fu Wang scrambled to his feet and raced to the stairs that descended to back up to the upper level of the temple. The library was caving in as he climbed the stairs as fast as he could to escape the earth that was caving in and crushing the hidden chambers below.

Finally, he surfaced and sucked in a deep breath having ran all the way up the stairs.

"Fù wáng!" He turned to face another student that he was familiar with. He panted as he caught up to him. "Zhè shì nǐ de xiōngdì!" (It's your brother!) Fu Wang felt his heart drop at as he processed the boy's words. "Tā bèi huǐmiè de lìliàng suǒ gǎndòng." (He was touched by the power of destruction.) Tā yīzhí méiyǒu fǎnyìng, zhìliáo shī jìn qí suǒ néng, dàn kàn qǐlái bìng bù hǎo." (He's been unresponsive, the healer is doing all he can, but it doesn't look good.)

According to Master Jun Li, the power of destruction was the powerful ability in the world besides the power of creation that is. It was also deadly, as it destroyed everything in it's path and that included life. If Senior Brother had been touched by the power, then surely he wouldn't survive, as there wasn't anything that could counter act the power.
Fu Wang processed these thoughts, as he looked down at the ground. Not only was the temple doomed, but Senior brother would die in vain. It was true, he was always the better brother, as he had gone to fight the traitorous monk himself even knowing that there was no way to defeat him. He was willing to put his life on the line to protect everyone else.
Just as he opened his mouth to respond, the ground began to rumble underneath their feet. Everyone in the courtyard stumbled as they tried to stay balanced. Fu Wang could only watch in horror as the cracks grew in the middle of the courtyard.

Just then the ground burst and in its wake Chi emerged. Students screamed as they fell through the opening just as an ancient dragon spirit surfaced from the gaping hole in the ground. Fu Wang stared up at the beast, that he had once thought of as his friend.

Chi raised himself out the pit and didn't hesitate as he blew fire at his surroundings. No one was safe from the ancient dragon's wrath. Everyone watched in horror as he began to destroy their temple, boys his age were tossed aside like nothing or burned to death where they stood.

The whole scene that unraveled before him was a tragedy filled with the smell of burnt flesh, blood and death. And it was all his fault.
Master Jun Li appeared, having the Miraculous box in possession once again. It would appear he was able to defeat Gyming, and reobtain the Black Cat miraculous. But what did this mean for Senior brother? Was there hope for him to live? Or was he too late and his brother was dead?

Master Jun Li paused mid step when he took notice of the dragon in the center of the courtyard grown to full size and oozing with power. His eyes widened at the sight of the dragon.

"Chi…" He said in astonishment. "Bù kěnéng! Nǐ shì zěnme táotuō de?" (Impossible! How did you escape?)

"Wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ yǒu nǐ de méntú huò xuéshēng wèi cǐ gǎnxiè." (I believe you have your disciple to thank for that.) He nodded to Fu Wang where he stood watching the scene unfold before him. "Suīrán wǒ bùnéng gěi tā suǒyǒu de gōngláo, dàn nǐ de sēnglǚ bìng bù dōu shì zhōngchéng de. Tā zhǐshì gàosù nǐ rénlèi hěn róngyì bèi fǔshí." (Although I can't give him all the credit, your monks were not all faithful. And it just goes show you that mankind can easily be corrupted.)

"Miàn duì jūn jūn, méiyǒu zhěngjiù zhège shìjiè de hēi'àn, jíshǐ zuì chúnjìng de xīnlíng yě wúfǎ miǎnyì tā." (Face it, Jun Li, there is no saving this world from darkness that is in all hearts even the purest of hearts aren't immune to its touch.) And with that said, Chi launched himself into the air, his wings unfurling as raised higher then propelled himself toward Master Jun Li.

"Zhǔ!" (Master!) Fu Wang cried out to him. Master Jun Li dodged just in time before the fire that Chi had sent his way, engulfed him. Then gracefully leaped up onto a roof of the temple and turned to face Chi who was banking left and soaring around towards him to attack him from behind.

In the process Chi manage knock over a pillar that held part of the temple's roof up. It fell and landed with a thunderous crash that vibrated the earth. But it didn't stop there, part of the roof began to crumble, and students began to run screaming trying to take cover. Fu Wang stood, his legs working once again.
He raised his hand out as he ran toward the crushing building with many of the boys trying to escape. He wanted to help them, but he couldn't. He tripped and fell to the ground only to watch horror as some of the students had been crushed beneath the impact of the crumbling stone.

As Fu Wang looked up, he felt numb. as he watched the travesty unravel before him. The screams of people he knew, and the dragon's roars echoed around him. But it was as if for a moment, someone had slowed down time. Almost punishing him by making him witness in slow motion the chaos and the inhumanity of the scene that was displayed in front of him.

He could hear the faint voice beside him, calling his name but he ignored it taking in the sight of death before him. Suddenly he was pulled out of his daze, by someone turning him abruptly and shaking him fiercely.

"FU WANG!" He came face to face with Master Jun Li, who in the next second knocked him behind a pillar for cover when Chi shot another streak of fire at them. "Fù wáng, xiànzài tīng wǒ shuō." (Fu Wang listen to me right now.)

Fu Wang shook his head, in tears. He had brought destruction and ruin to the temple. He had endangered and caused so many lives to be lost. And now the temple was going to be destroyed and everyone dead by Chi because he released him.

"Wǒ hěn bàoqiàn lǐ jūn dàshī. Wǒ fànle yīgè cuòwù, wǒ zhīdào wǒ wúfǎ shōuhuí huò xiūfù tā. Dàn wǒ yuànyì jìn yīqiè nǔlì shǐ shìqíng zhèngquè." (I'm so sorry Master Jun Li. I made a mistake, and I know there is no way I can take it back or fix it. But I am willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.)

"Wáng qǐng tīng wǒ shuō. Zhège hěn zhòngyào. Wǒ xūyào nǐ dài shàng qíjī, lìkè líkāi shèng diàn." (Wang listen to me please. This is important. I need you to take the Miraculous and leave the temple at once.) Fu Wang stared up at him in shock as he blinked back tears watching as Master Jun Li pulled out the ancient hexagonal box and extended his hand for him to take it.

"Shénme?" (What?)

"Méiyǒu duōshǎo shíjiān. Wǒmen bùnéng ràng Chi huòdé shénqí, tā zhǐ huì lìyòng tāmen de lìliàng lái kuòdà tā zìjǐ, yǐbiàn tā kěyǐ qǔyuè tā." (There isn't much time. We can't let Chi obtain the Miraculous he will only use their power to amplify his own so that he may release Him.)

"Tā?"

"Wáng! Jiāodiǎn! Nǐ xūyào bǎochí shénqí de ānquán, yuǎnlí tā. Qù wǒ de shūfáng, xiàng Wayzz xúnwèn qíjī de mìmì shū. Zhǐyǒu tā huì zhīdào tā zài nǎlǐ. Ránhòu ná qǐ shū hé shénqí, lìkè líkāi shèng diàn. Wúlùn nǐ kàn dào huò tīngdào shénme, zài rènhé qíngkuàng xià dōu bùyào huítóu. Yǒngyuǎn bùyào bǎ qíjī huò shū gěi rènhé rén. Zhè běnshū jiāng bāohán nín xūyào de yīqiè,Wayzz jiāng wèi nín tígōng bāngzhù. Nǐ néng bāng wǒ ma?" (Wang! Focus! You need to keep the Miraculous safe and away from him. Go to my study and ask Wayzz where the secret book of the Miraculous is. Only he will know where it is. Then take the book and the Miraculous and leave the temple at once. Do not turn back, under any circumstances no matter what you see or hear. And never give the miraculous or book to anyone. The book will have everything you need, and Wayzz will help you. Can you do that for me?)

He asked him once again when Fu Wang made little response. The boy nodded his head quickly and took the Miraculous. He looked up at his Master, who stood and unsheathed his sword.

"Shīfu, nǐ huì zuò shénme? Dǎ tā? Tā tài qiángdàle, nǐ zěnme qīwàng yíng?" (Master, what will you do? Fight him? He too powerful, how do you expect to win?)

"Wǒ bù. Dàn wǒ bìxū chángshì. Wǒ wúfǎ huǐmiè tā. Dàn wǒ kěyǐ zàicì xiànrù tā de jìngdì." (I don't. But I have to try. I can't destroy him Fu Wang. But I can trap him once again.) Fu Wang's eyes widened.

"Zěnme yàng?" (How?)

"Chi de zuìhòu yīcì bèi èzhì, shì zài chuàngzào hé huǐmiè de qíjī de bāngzhù xià. Dàn zhècì wǒmen bùnéng chéngshòu shīqù huò sǔnhuài de shénqí. Suǒyǐ wǒ huì bèisòng yīgè xūyào tígōng de gǔlǎo zhòuyǔ..." (The last time Chi was contained, was with the help of the Miraculous of Creation and Destruction. But this time we can't afford to lose or damage the Miraculous. So, I will recite an ancient spell that requires an offering...) He trailed off unable to continue.

"Shīfu, nǐ shì shénme yìsi?" (Master, what do you mean?) Master Jun Li cleared his throat as another explosion was heard followed by the sight of flames growing and spreading across the temple. He took a deep breath and hugged Fu Wang.

"Zuòwéi jiāohuàn lái jiānjìn hé èzhì zhì, wǒ huì tígōng zìjǐ zuòwéi huíbào. Xiǎoxīn wǒ de nánhái. Cóng zhège cuòwù zhōng xīqǔ jiàoxùn, zuò dé gèng hǎo." (In exchange to imprison and contain Chi, I will offer myself up in return. Be careful out there my boy. Learn from this mistake and be better.) Fu Wang's eyes widened at the realization, but before he could speak. To convince his Master that there had to be another, Master Jun Li ran into the fray to meet his fate.

"Jūn jūn lǐ! Lǐjùnjūn!" (Master Jun Li! Master Jun Li!)

As the sun rose the next morning, Fu Wang glanced back towards the burning temple in the distance at the top of the mountain. He gripped his satchel in one hand and the Miraculous box in the other. Wayzz hovered just above his shoulder. Fu Wang looked down to the ground, with tears running down his cheeks. Wayzz placed a comforting paw on his shoulder in effort to comfort him.

But the poor boy was inconsolable, he had made the biggest mistake of his life. And it cost him everything, the temple of the Guardians and the people he knew were gone. Like the ocean washing away the sand, cleansing all life. After a moment, he turned and continued his make his away from the mountain and his home that was now a tomb.

Master Fu's POV

Master Fu stared out his window, looking over the city. He could hear the screams of panic and fear coming from just outside of his room. The time has come, he thought to himself.

"Mr. Wang Fu! Please sir, the Moni Cheng are here, we must go now!" A nurse said as she practically burst into the room panting from running. But Master Fu didn't move and didn't turn around to face her. "Sir?"

"There is no need, you should leave quickly. Find somewhere safe." The nurse shook her head.

"Sir, terrorist have just infiltrated the hospital! We need to get you out of here and to safety!" Master Fu simply shook his head.

"It is too late, and I have already accepted what is meant to be." She blinked and stared at him in confusion. Not fully understanding the meaning of his words. Suddenly two Moni Cheng came into the room. The nurse gasped and opened her mouth to scream as they came toward her with weapons.

"Just let her go, she is not a part of this." Master Fu told them. They paused but after a moment complied and released her, the nurse raced out of the room. Making one last glance at the old Chinese man.

Suddenly the window behind shattered and in came what he distinguished was not a regular Moni Cheng follower, but one the elites or assassins of a higher ranking perhaps.

He was dressed in all black, a face mask and hood over his head concealing his identity. He unsheathed one of his swords and faced Master Fu.

"I can assure you there is no need for this, I am willing to comply without the need for excessive force." He said moving to sit down on the hospital bed. He gripped his cane as he seated himself, his old bones were proving to be weak and not able to keep himself up any longer.

"Giving up so easily, old friend." Master Fu froze, he hadn't wanted to believe it was him. But his presence alone proved that his theory had been correct. Slowly Master Fu turned to face the masked leader of the Moni Cheng. That was now Paris's infamous tormentor, who stood behind him in the doorway.

Yao Guai entered the room, with a sense of respect and authority. And though Master Fu couldn't see his face, there was no mistaking the truth. He and Yao Guai had history with one another even if it had been almost over a century ago.

"Leave us," Yao Guai said to his followers. "We have some unfinished business." He explained. The elite seemed to hesitate for a moment before Yao Guai nodded in assurance. As soon as they were alone, the terrorist leader spoke. "It's been too long Wang,"

"Yes, it has." Master Fu answered simply.

"Well best not to beat around the bush, I didn't come here to reminisce about the old days." His mood turned from friendly to serious in an instant. "Where are the Miraculous?" He asked.

"You know that I am not allowed to give up such information to anyone. I am the great Guardian now, and I have a duty to protect Miraculous till my last breath." Yao Guai snorted.

"It's funny how loyal you seem to be now." Master Fu swallowed hard as the mood seemed to shift towards tension.

"You know, when I was dying or seemed to be. I accepted that I might have not seen anyone again, but I would die with dignity knowing that I saved the Guardians from the corrupted monks. But instead I survived, only to learn that order of the Guardians was no more. That they were all slaughtered like cattle and it was all thanks to my little brother that betrayed his people." The great Guardian said nothing, he was silenced by his words. For he did not know what to say.

"I can't apologize enough for what I did all those years ago." Yao Guai scoffed and turned away from him to look out across Paris. He could hear the sirens echoing across the city, Ladybug and Chat Noir along the with the rest of the Miraculous Holders would be here soon. Surely to come and rescue their mentor, the great Guardian himself. "Ever since that day, I have hated myself and still feel guilt and pain from that tragedy." Master Fu shook his head. "But I can't take back what I did, I can't go back in time and fix the mistake I made. As much as I want to," He felt tears stinging his eyes. The thought of his people, and the part he played in their deaths as well as the destruction of their home still haunted him. It was a nightmare that repeated over and over again throughout the decades.

It was one the reasons, he never let himself be happy. He lived his entire life alone and dedicated himself to protecting the Miraculouses in honor of the Guardians lifelong oath to the order. "I have spent my entire life, mourning their loss and living with that pain-and guilt knowing that it was all my fault for what happened to them. I even blamed myself for your death, when I had heard you had been touched by the powers of destruction. I was certain I would never see you again."

"You're right, one cannot change the past." Yao Guai spoke. "Only the future," Master Fu looked up at him. "This is your opportunity for redemption. To make things right." The old master looked up at him confused. "If you tell me the identity of Ladybug and Chat Noir along with the others, then I can still save the world from the destruction of the Miraculouses. To avoid another catastrophe like the one that took place over a century ago."

"I am bound by an oath-

"Oath? That oath was destroyed when the order was slaughtered all because of desire for the Miraculouses for that absolute power. You know as well as I do the dangers of the Miraculous, how it can corrupt even the purest of hearts. No one should have that power, not even those who would like to claim they are using it for the greater good." Master Fu looked away, knowing Yao Guai wasn't wrong but he still believed they could be used for good and that outweighed the bad. "Hawkmoth was only a man by the name of Gabriel Agreste. And he wasn't the first to fall and be corrupted by the power in order to achieve his own selfish desires."

It was true, Gabriel wasn't the first man or woman to fall from grace so to speak. There had been many wielders of the Miraculous who claimed or believed they had good intentions and reasons to use the powers of the Miraculous for their own gain. Master Fu still recalled, that time he had given a Miraculous to the wrong person. They couldn't handle the power, and not be corrupted by it.

But Master Fu also recognized that Yao Guai was also speaking on a personal and first hand level. Although he hadn't been there, Yao Guai had been touched by power of the Black Cat Miraculous. And it should have been impossible that he even survived the touch of destruction.

"I know you must have suffered-

"You know nothing!" He cut him off as he spun around to face him. "Do you know what it's like being touched by death itself. As if someone is trying to rip apart your very being and tear your soul away from you. The burning pain stabs at you over and over again seems never ending. Until you long for death." He paused and looked down at the shattered glass, gazing at his reflection. "Though you survive, you are never the same. You carry that reminder everyday you look into a mirror. So tell me…do you know what that's like?"

"I-

"You don't, but that wasn't the worse pain that I endured." He stated simply and turned to look at him once again. "It was learning of what had happened to the temple, to our people. To Master Jun Li." The great Guardian was silenced by the mention of his old Master's name. "The only person to care about me like I was his own son, had given his life to keep that beast at bay from causing chaos in the world."

"S-

"Not only was our entire order that was like family to us slaughter and burned alive. But in order to trap that beast again, Master Jun Li had to give up his own life because of your mistake."

"But," He continues. "It matters not now, what happened, happened. You know now though, that I can't let you leave." Master Fu knew where this was going as soon as he unsheathed the familiar sword. He felt a tear slip down his cheek, as he recognized the sword.

"Is that…?" He questioned. Yao Guai nodded as he admired the old Chinese blade.

"Yes," He crouched down in front him to face him. "Master Jun Li's sword. I found it, when I found no trace of his body because his own spirit became energy to contain that dragon. I have kept it safe all this time and have been saving it for a special someone." He gazed at Master Fu.

"Me." He whispered knowingly. Yao Guai nodded.

"I find that it is poetic justice don't you think?" Master Fu didn't answer just looked down. "It should have been you to exchange your life, to contain that beast not Master Jun Li. And it will be your life that will pay for his and the Guardians." He stood and raised his sword. Master Fu swallowed hard. "You think it's fair don't you?" Slowly he nodded in agreement. Deep down Master Fu had always longed for death, for what he did. But what kept him going, was his dedication to protecting the Miraculous and honoring his promise to Master Jun Li.

But now he accepted that his time in this world had come to an end. However, the reason he was more willing to accept death now was because he knew that the Order of the Guardians would not die with him.

"I will ask you once again, where are the Miraculous? Who are Ladybug and Chat Noir's true identities?" When he made no attempt to answer, Yao Guai knocked his cane out of his hand causing him to lose balance and fall to the floor with a thud. Master Fu groaned in pain as he was kicked onto his back so that he could look up at Yao Guai. "Tell me, and I will promise I won't kill them." But he remained silent, not saying a word as he attempted to push himself to sit up.

Yao Guai back handed him across the face, knocking him to the side. "Who are they?!" He yelled. Master Fu spat blood, from his cut lip and yelped when he was kicked in the stomach yet again. He panted trying to grasp a breath. He was so old and weak now, especially without the Miraculous to give him a little boast of strength ad energy.

"Tell me!" He yelled at him when he was crouched down to his level once again. But Master Fu just shook his head and without warning he used the last of his strength to charge at him. Yao Guai hadn't expected his move, or what he was trying to do. Until it was too late, Master Fu had forcefully impaled himself on his Master Jun Li's sword.

The two brothers stared at one another for a long moment, processing what had just happened. Master Fu stared at the mask that hid the eyes of the man he once knew and called brother. Uncontrollably he began to choke on his own blood, as Yao Guai slowly removed the sword from him.

He stood only for a second longer, before he fell to the ground gasping for air as he pressed a shaky hand to his abdomen. Yao Guai dropped the sword and kneeled down to him.

"You were always so stubborn," He shook his head. Master Fu attempted to smile slightly remembering fond memories of their time together as kids.

"Senior Brother- Master Fu coughed up some more blood, he could feel his life draining. "Consider…what you are...doing…to destroy the Miraculouses will prove more harm…then good…" But senior brother shook his head.

"The Miraculouses are the reason for every tragedy and war, they attract demons and those who lust for power. And with-it death and destruction always follow close behind." Yao Gaui picked up his sword and stood. He walked to the door and glanced back at the old man that was once his little brother.

"…Xue…" He tried to call after him but his voice raspy and he could hardly speak. Master Fu watched him leave, as he bled to death.

Marinette's POV

Ladybug swung herself up and into the open window of the hospital. She landed gracefully in trashed hospital room. She could make out the screams and the sound of feet running across from her. Moving toward the open door to the hallway, she found two Moni Cheng cornering some patients for information. She didn't hesitate, gripping her Yoyo in one hand.

She swung her Yoyo, and it wrapped itself around the two Moni Cheng followers that were harassing the two patients. And in one swift motion she sent them flying back down the hallway. With a timid 'thank you', the two of them ran down the hall as fast they could out of sight.

As Ladybug continued making her way down the hall, fighting off Moni Cheng left and as well as helping people to safety. As she proceeded down the hall, her Yoyo vibrated in her hand, alerting her that there was an incoming call.

"Hey!" She said once she accepted the call. Carapace masked face appeared on the screen and he began speaking rather quickly.

"Were on our way, we need to get to the hospital as soon as possible. Chat Noir and I have theory that Yao Guai is targeting the hospital because Master Fu is there." He explained.

"You need to find him now, do you understand?" When he got no response the first two times, he began calling out her name to get her attention. "Ladybug? Ladybug!"

But Ladybug had stopped listening to Carapace minutes ago. She was focused on a figure at the end of the hall that had stepped out of a room. Yao Guai stood at the other end of the hall, holding what appeared to be an old Chinese sword. But it wasn't only the sword that caught her eye, it was the color of the blade. It was dark red as if it had been inside something with that very color. However, she knew. It was red paint, her eyes followed the outline of the sword to its tip, where blood continued to drip off it.

Ladybug began to feel sick to her stomach, and she could feel the panic attack coming on. Desperately though she tried to control it, she refused to break down in front of him. To show weakness to this cruel and monster of a man.

She watched as he simply took a paper towel from one of the counters and wiped the blood off. Then he sheathed his sword and proceeded down the hall toward the stairwell that led to the roof, with two Moni Cheng bodyguards on either side of him.

She raced after him, intending on fighting him. But was stopped when she couldn't help her curiosity to look inside the room he had come out of. As she stepped into the room, her eyes widened as the sight that was displayed before and she all but dropped her Yoyo.

Her hand began to shake, as memories flashed through her mind. Nadia Chamack's bloody corpse lie in front of her once again. And the horror of the memory of when she fell from the Eiffel Tower appeared in her mind so vivid as the day it had happened. Ladybug's breathing began to pick up, she could no longer keep control over her emotions as images clouded her vision.

She put her hands on her head and closed her eyes, clenching her teeth as if in physical pain. Anything to make the horrifying memories and images stop replaying in her mind like a movie that on replay over and over again. She backed up into a wall and was panting now. She couldn't handle it, she felt as though she was going to explode. She just wanted it to stop, she didn't want to see these memories anymore so lifelike, so real.

Ladybug barely registered her name being called, until it brought her back to the present.

"Marinette," She gasped and opened her eyes to see Master Fu staring up at her. "It's okay." He attempted to assure her. His words seemed to bring her back to the present. And she all but collapsed in front of him on her knees with a sob.

"Oh my…oh my god…" She could hardly speak as she raised her hand to him. It hovered over the hole in his abdomen. "Somebody! Somebody, help! I need a doctor, please!" She screamed. But she knew it was no use, everyone even the doctors were fleeing the hospital due to the danger. Her eyes began to watery and she knew she couldn't keep the waterfall of tears at bay for long.

She paused for a moment when she felt a hand on her own.

"It's too late, there's nothing that can be done now." She shook her head stubbornly.

"No! I refused to believe that! I can help you! Just hold on!" She cried as she slowly placed her hands on his abdomen, trying to stop the bleeding. He just smiled sadly at her attempts to help him.

"There's no point, this how it ends for me. I have known and accepted it for some time now."

"NO-

"Listen to me, I am old now. I have lived a longer life then most and have seen so many things in this long lifetime. I am happy to have met people like you and Chat Noir as well as Carapace and Queen B. You have proven to me and the world that good still exist. You have all proven yourselves, that you don't need me anymore." She felt a tear escape, and slip down her cheek as she spoke.

"No. Don't say that please." She begged. He squeezed her hand in comfort.

"I'm sorry Marinette." She blinked and looked at him confused. But he continued. "I'm sorry I wasn't there for you, when you needed me the most. When you had to face the reality of being a hero, and what that meant for you. Being a hero is not always about glory; it's about making the most difficult of decisions and taking responsibility to protect others over yourself. Being a hero means putting yourself in harms way for the people, but just because you're a hero doesn't mean you always win or save everyone..."

Ladybug frowned as tears continued down her face.

"I..."

"I thought you could handle it, because you were strong and you were not alone. You and Chat were supposed to rely on one another, it was supposed to be enough because you didn't have to do the job-duty alone. But I had forgotten that though you were strong and not alone, you were so young and had never faced the ugliest part of being a hero. And what it would imply when it came to war, and the inhumanity that is apart of it." He reminded her of the night that Nadia Chamack had died. That she witnessed something truly frightening. She had watched someone she cared about, die right in front of her eyes.

Although in the past she knew that people sometimes got hurt during akuma attacks but with the Miraculous cure they were healed. But the cure could not help someone that was no longer alive. "Instead I should have helped you, by being a better mentor and teacher. I should have mentally prepared you for some struggles that lay ahead in a hero's journey. I should have been there for you when you need me the most, I am so sorry for all that has been done to you."

She burst into tears at his apology, his last speech to her and he was apologizing instead of final parting words.

"You can't-no you can't leave me now." She sobbed. "Chat and I…we still need you. I need you here with me, please don't go." Her voice cracked with the sound of sadness and fear.

"No, you don't. I have taught you all, all that I can. You and Chat will need each other more than ever now. Both of you must protect the Miraculous and keep them safe." He paused before continuing. "Ladybug-Marinette…there's something that I should have told you a long time ago. The battle that you face with the Moni Cheng, will not be like the battle you had with Hawkmoth when you were but a mere girl. Now you're faced with deadlier foes, that won't hold back. And are not going to make things easy for you. There will be hardships and pain to come. You may even lose people that you care about along the way. And you must be smarter, they will kill you if they get the chance." She nodded.

"And lastly, I couldn't be prouder than to have chosen you and Chat Noir to take up this responsibility. I don't regret choosing you to wield the Miraculous of Creation. You both as well as Carapace will continue my legacy. As will the line of the Guardians continue. I will always be with you. All of you…" Ladybug realized that Master Fu had officially named Carapace as his successor as a Guardian. She let out another tearful sob as she gazed down at him.

Ladybug hugged him to her, her teacher, her mentor, second father-figure and her dear friend. He was all those things to her, and what made it more heartbreaking was the fact that she hadn't spoken to him till she had returned to Paris.

As she cried softly into his shoulder, cradling in her arms around him, like he was a mere baby. She began to notice his grip around her began to slacken. She felt a stabbing pain in her heart, as the realization dawned on her. As if a bucket of ice water had been dumped on her head when she pulled back to gaze down at what lie left in her arms.

And without warning, she burst into tears sobbing as she looked down at the body of a man that she once knew and admired. As she slowly lowered him to the floor, she couldn't help but make a glance around the room. She looked toward the door, where she could see the Moni Cheng continue their raid.

Something seemed to snap inside her. All of the sadness and pain that she was feeling seemed to transform and manifest into one single emotion; rage. Her bluebell eyes locked onto the Yoyo that had been left on the ground. With little hesitation, she grabbed the Yoyo and pushed herself to stand.

Then made her way to the window, that had been shattered. She looked around then up toward the roof where she could see as well as hear the helicopter that was approaching.

As she swung herself up onto the roof, she hardly noticed her hands glowing a distinct red. Her eyes zeroed in on the masked man making his way to the helicopter and her anger flared at the sight.

Gripping her Yoyo in one hand, she swung herself up onto the roof. She was no longer crying or in pain. She just wanted justice, or so she thought. For Ladybug was now out for blood.

Nino's POV

Carapace was running side by side with Chat Noir across the rooftops of Paris. Ladybug had just cut off the connection with him. He huffed in frustration and tried to focus on the matter at hand. Master Fu was in danger, and he was sure of it.

Wayzz had been freaking out, as if he had sensed something off. Not even a moment later, he had received a call from Adrien confirming his worse fears. Master Fu was not only his teacher and mentor, but he was also his dear friend. He had come to think highly of him, and his lessons. Perhaps Carapace only worried about what kind of Guardian he would be and lacked the confidence to think he was ready much less worthy.

Carapace's thoughts were distracted again, remembering how the situation had begun.

10 minutes before:

Nino sighed in annoyance as he hung up the phone with Adrien. He began to scramble to find a place to transform quickly. But was stopped when his phone rang again, this time 'Alya's' name popped up on the screen.

He debated whether he should answer it, despite being on a tight schedule. He still worried since that day that Alya had almost been killed that she might be in trouble. Without a second thought, he accepted the call.

"Hello? Alya?" He said into the phone.

"Nino! Thank god! Where are you? The hospital it just blew up, I'm certain that Marinette is heading over there to make sure that her mother gets to safety." She rambled on into the phone as she panted. Nino could only assume that she was running, and he hoped it was somewhere safe. She continued to ramble on, he knew she was nervous.

"Alya," He said calmly when she finally paused. "Listen to me, you need to find somewhere safe. Head back to the apartment, and lock the door."

"Nino!"

"Alya, please remember what happened yesterday." He pointed out on the phone.

"What 'almost' happened." She corrected. He shook his head and swore. This woman would be the death of him.

"Please Alya for once just listen to me."

"Okay, but where are you? We can go back to the apartment together." She demanded again into the phone. Nino hesitated, trying to come up with another one of his elaborate excuses. She scoffed on the other end of the phone when she realized he was going to come up with another excuse again of why he couldn't tell her where he was and why he was out late. "You can't tell me again." She snorted in annoyance.

"Alya, please it's not that simple. I want to tell you, but I can't. But I promise you that I will be back, and you don't have to worry. Just trust me on this please." He begged.

"Trust? I'm not sure I can anymore." Nino frowned.

"Alya-

"Just be safe okay." And with that the line went dead. Nino groaned in frustration and kicked a trashcan before slipping into an alley way to transform. Wayzz appeared in front of him and gave him a sad look.

"I am sorry, Nino. I know it must be difficult to not be able to tell the ones that you love the truth about your true identity." He attempted to comfort him and placed a paw on his shoulder. Nino shook his head.

"I just can't help but wonder if I am fooling myself with thinking that we can be together. But after this last month, I don't know. I want to be with her, but then I have duty to Paris. I can't be selfish, can I? Would that make me a bad person?" Wayzz shook his head.

"No. After all you are only human, and like every other you long for happiness and love. But, can there be happiness and love even if she knew the truth about you. Would you be able to keep her safe from your enemies who would try to use her against you?" The turtle man didn't question it any further and transformed.

Present:

"Hey!" Carapace jumped slightly at the sound of a voice beside him. "Are you alright?" Chat asked. The turtle superhero nodded.

"Sorry, just have a lot on my mind."

"Well can't it wait till after we stop the Moni Cheng?" Carapace looked away, a part of him still felt as if he should worry. As if he didn't already have a bad feeling before.

"Yeah, let's hurry. Master Fu needs us."

Marinette's POV

She landed with a thud, in front of Yao Guai. Not even making a glance behind at the followers that she had just taken out. Ladybug was seething as she slowly stood in front of the man that killed 'him'.

The men behind her groaned in pain, from her ruthless attacks that she laid waste upon them in her rage. She hadn't even relented on one of the followers that was in her path. The follower's mask had been removed in her blinded rage. She had wailed him on and on and didn't show signs of stopping until she resumed her focus on one specific target; his masked leader.

Yao Guai stood in front of her now out in the open now, she gripped her Yoyo in one hand as she continued to glare at him with hatred in her eyes. He stood there calmly facing her, not even glancing at his fallen men. She was panting, and her eyes were red from tears. She could feel her eyes watering again as she looked upon the man-no the murderer that just stood there watching her. As if waiting for her to make a move.

After a few moments of silence, just staring at one another, she let a battle cry as she charged at him swinging her Yoyo. To which he easily dodged, ducked and evaded her every move with ease.

He wasn't even out of breath, as she continued to attack him. He caught her Yoyo like he had last time, but instead of using it to propel her away, he tugged her toward him. Making her lose balance and catapult right into him. She cried out in pain when he gripped her wrists tightly and made her look at him.

She struggled and squirmed in his grip trying to free herself. She gritted her teeth and spoke.

"Had enough?" He asked.

"Let me go." But he merely laughed in response. She spit at him, causing him to release her. She landed in front of him in a crouch, ready to pounce once again.

"Why so upset wielder of the Miraculous of creation?" He inquired tilting his head to side almost thoughtfully. She couldn't help but glance at the sword on his hip. He followed her gaze and smiled finally understand what she was so upset about. "Ah, your angry that your beloved mentor is dead." Her hands were shaking, her own rage taking over her. She couldn't seem to think clearly. All she wanted was for him to pay, for what he did to Master Fu. "Did anyone ever tell you not to let your emotions take over you? Yes, it is true sometimes they can help you, but they can also be your downfall." He murmured.

She hated the fact that he was giving her advice, that was 'his' job, not this monster's. Ladybug could hardly think clearly, as the rage inside of her was getting harder and harder to contain. All she wanted to do was hurt him, to make him feel the pain that she was feeling. The pain that Master Fu must have felt as he suffered for those last few moments.

"Your mentor wasn't the man that you thought he was. He had done some terrible things in his past. You shouldn't defend a man like that. I'm surprised you never figured out that you were just a piece on a chess board to him. A pawn that he can use for his advantage, and his mission." He chuckled, and her jaw clenched as his words. "Do you think he really cared about you? You were merely a weapon at his disposal, you and that reckless partner of yours."

"Shut up!" She snapped. She didn't want to hear anything else that he had to say. She may not have known Master Fu that well. But she refused to believe that he didn't care about them. And she wouldn't let this man destroy his memory with his false accusations.

He merely shook his head.

"Believe what you will, but that man will never interfere or harm another person again." She snapped in that moment, all her anger and sadness exploded inside of her at his words. He didn't know Master Fu, she wouldn't let him continue with his false statements.

"You killed him!" She screamed and attempted to shove him back away from her. Only to instead a form of energy had been released from her hands at her attempt to push him away from her. Ladybug released all the pent-up anger and aggression in that moment. By the time, it stopped she felt utterly drained and exhausted. She could hardly stand, only to find herself fall to her knees with little energy left in her.

Slowly she raised her head and came to realize that she had somehow landed a hit on him, as Yao Guai was now crouched a few feet away from her. As he had used his sword to stop himself from losing his balance as he had slide across the roof away from her. She blinked in surprise and astonishment. Her eyes slowly dropped down to look at her hands. What was that? She wondered.

"It appears you have obtained a new power." He stated. She glanced back over to him, and noticed he was making his way toward her. She attempted to reach out for her Yoyo, but found she was too weak. She could hardly move much less stand to defend herself; she was drained of all her energy. Ladybug felt as though she had been hit by a truck, as her body felt so weak.

She tried to get up again, but her body betrayed her and in response slumped to the ground further lying on her side. Yao Guai came to stand in front of her and crouched down to her level. She could hear Tikki's voice calling out to her, trying to push to get up.

"No matter, you cannot beat me Ladybug, I have not just years but decades of experience on you. But you think just because you have this." He touched her earring with his finger, causing her to flinch at his cold touch, and attempt to move away from him. Inside she was panicking, at the thought of him taking her Miraculous. "That it makes you untouchable." He scoffed. "Little girl, have not learned from the past? How the Miraculous of Creation and Destruction work? You are weaker without your counterpart, Chat Noir. Together you are stronger, but separate you are not just weaker you are also vulnerable."
In response, she hissed and reached out to grab her Yoyo once again to defend herself. But he caught her in the act and with little hesitation kicked her to the ground, causing her to fall onto her back from the use of force behind it.

"Unfortunately, even if he was here beside you; you two are not at true strength and power as you should be at this age. And that's the problem, you're not strong enough to take on your enemies anymore. The two of you were supposed to grow together throughout the years, to the point of which your bond would be unbreakable. I guess I should be thanking you though, for turning your back on your duty an oath as a Miraculous Holder. For driving a rift between the you and Chat Noir," She glared up at him. "With your relationship so broken beyond repair it makes taking your Miraculouses so much easier and my plans possible." He unsheathed his sword from his hip and raised it to her.

She swallowed hard as she leaned back away from blade. Fear began to rise inside of her. Was how it was going to end for her? She wondered.

No! She couldn't let it end like this or Master Fu would have died in vain. But she could barely lift herself up much less stand to fight. She felt helpless lying on the ground in front of him.

"Don't worry I won't kill you, but I'll be needing those earrings." She glared up at him until she froze at his next words. "So, I'll just take your ears," Her eyes widened with fear, as he positioned the sword just above her right ear on the side of her head. Her fear began to grow when he slid the blade gently against her skull just above her ear, dragging out the impending fear.

Without another moment he swung the blade, she closed her eyes waiting for the pain to come. But it never came, blinking she looked up to find a yellow and black trompo (top) wrapped around the sword that held it at bay from slicing off her ear.

"Seriously? And I thought you were supposed to be the smart one? Not the reckless one that's for sure." A sassy voice sounded through the air. She turned her head over to the voice, to find Queen B and breathed a sigh of relief as the bee themed super heroine tugged the sword out of Yao Guai's hands.

Queen B took a stance, readying her weapon once again and swung it at him. The top was released drilling through the surface across of the rooftop creating dust from the concrete. Queen B used this to her advantage as a distraction to land a surprise attack on the cult leader. Yao Guai seemed to be expecting this, and counter-attacked hers.
In the midst of battle she was able to deflect one of his attacks. She jumped onto his outstretched arm with grace and swung her leg up knocking his chin back as she flipped herself backward in midair. Her attack left Yao Guai's mask slightly crooked from the force of her kick.

It was then, that Ladybug noticed the bit of skin that was revealed under the mask. Her bluebell eyes zeroed in on the small patch of skin that was shown. Her eyes narrowed as she noticed the small dark vein on the pale skin that was revealed.

Ladybug watched as Queen B laid on attack after attack on Yao Guai. Although she might have gotten a few good hits in, he still hardly looked winded or weakened by her attacks. She got the feeling that he was merely toying with her and wasn't even trying to win the fight.

After another series of attacks back and forth, the Moni Cheng leader began to look rather bored with the fight against Queen B. Ladybug watched as Queen B leapt into the air and spun toward him, preparing to swing her trompo at him.

But she hadn't realized that she had left herself open in time. The blonde superhero gasped in surprise when a hand clasped around her throat in midair. As she was thrown to the ground with such force that it knocked the air out of her lungs. Queen B let out another gasp once again but this time for oxygen. Her lithe and slender body squirmed as his hand that was around her throat began to tighten; ever so slowly.

She grunted in pain and struggled for a breath. Ladybug had managed to push herself up on all fours now and tried her best to crawl over to Queen B as Yao Guai had retrieved his sword again.

The sound of a crash interrupted the moment, and all three of them glanced toward the sound. A green figure had been thrown out the door with resounding crash on the ground. Ladybug looked to see Carapace lying on his back, with his shield bouncing across the rooftop a few feet from him. He groaned in pain as he rubbed his head.

The distraction was long enough for Queen B to use her legs to propel Yao Guai off her. She gasped for a breath and coughed as she rubbed her throat. Her sapphire blue eyes glared daggers at the masked man.

After another moment, she found her strength and rose to her feet to face him. But by that time, more Moni Cheng followers had arrived and in response Yao Guai sheathed his sword.

"Don't think this where it ends," Both female superheroes faces'; scrunched up in confusion. "Our inevitable battle will come, but not today. And rest assured I will destroy you all." The sound of helicopter filled the air, and the wind began to pick up causing Ladybug's raven hair to whip back and froth from the breeze.

Ladybug and Queen B motioned to go after him but were stopped by the sound of metal clashing against metal.

The Elite appeared sliding across the rooftop from some sort of unseen force. Using his sword, he stabbed the rooftop to slowly stop himself from sliding any further.
Suddenly Chat Noir came barreling through the doorway and jumped toward the Elite swinging his staff at him in midair. The Elite blocked his attack with his own sword, the sound that came from the two weapons echoed across the rooftop of the hospital.

Chat and the Elite continued their sword fighting against one another until Yao Guai yelled from his place in the helicopter, in Chinese.

"Wǒmen zǒu ba!" (Let's go!) The Elite glanced toward his leader that had given the order then looked back to the black cat superhero that he was immersed in fighting. In a quick motion, the Elite forced his staff to the side with his own sword then spun his body around to hit the cat-man in the chest with his elbow, causing Chat Noir to grunt and lose balance. Without hesitation, the Elite raised his leg and shoved him back with his foot.

Chat Noir was sent flying back into the wall leaving a dent from the impact. He grunted from the force of the blow and fell forward on all fours. Chat shook his head and looked back up at the Elite as he sheathed his sword behind his back and raced across the rooftop. Queen B swung her weapon at him. With quick reflexes he dodged and performed an excellent use of his agility skills. Performing a series of handsprings and aerials in order to dodge her attacks. He continued to run along the edge of the building before jumping off and grabbing the rope hanging from the flying vehicle.

The four Miraculous Holders watched as the terrorist escaped once again.

Ladybug slumped to the ground not just due to her lack of strength but at the feeling of utter defeat.

Note: Hey guys, so here is part 2 of Chapter 11, phew! That was a lot to write that's for sure, I still think I might continue to edit these chapters later as I think I rushed toward the end of this chapter just to get out all those important scenes. I know right now that I am sure to get some hate comments for killing off Master Fu, yes I know I understand your pain. I didn't want to kill him off either, but it was essential to the plot. Not to mention, it is going to prove as a challenge to the superheroes. This was a hit home for them, showing them that they need to start taking things much more seriously seeing as their enemy clearly knows more about their abilities and weaknesses then them.

What did you guys think of Master Fu and Yao Guai's past? Did you guys suspect that the two were connected somehow? And what did you guys think of Shan? Was he everything you guys were expecting?

Not much Chloe in this chapter, but there will be more of her to come. I am excited to explore more of her character throughout the story. I have big plans for many of the characters and have been doing a bit more brainstorming for details and depth to each character.

Were definitely going to get some flashbacks to the past, as well as some more appearances from Shan and of course guest star appearances from the other classmates. As the story progresses there will be more development between Marinette and Adrien as well as their counterparts. As more chapters will focus on rebuilding their relationship/partnership.

I hope you enjoyed the chapter and I hope to post again next week. Until next time!

End of Chapter 11 part 2