HWAA (Samsara of the Phoenix) | Miraculous LB

Chapter 1

Chapter 1: The New Arrival

The morning sun cast a golden hue over College Francois Dupont as students milled about, catching up after the summer break. The iconic school, with its grand architecture and ivy-clad walls, buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Today, the school had a new addition—Feyre Chen-McIver, a transfer student from Scotland.

Feyre stood at the gates, her heart racing. The imposing structure was both awe-inspiring and intimidating. She took a deep breath, smoothing her uniform and adjusting her backpack. Her striking blue eyes, a mix of curiosity and nerves, scanned the bustling courtyard. This was her fresh start, a chance to fit in and perhaps, make a few friends.

Inside, the hallways were alive with chatter and laughter. As she navigated her way to the main office, Feyre couldn't help but notice the welcoming atmosphere. Her thoughts were interrupted by a voice.

"Hey there, you must be the new student!"

Feyre turned to see a girl with short, wavy ginger hair and warm hazel eyes smiling at her. "I'm Sophie. I've been assigned to show you around."

"Hi, I'm Feyre. Nice to meet you," she replied, a small smile breaking through her nervous demeanor.

Sophie's friendly demeanor was comforting. As they walked through the school, she introduced Feyre to various spots—the library, the art room, and the cafeteria.

"This place is amazing," Feyre thought, taking in the vibrant surroundings.

Their last stop was their homeroom, where the rest of the class was already seated. Sophie led Feyre to the front where their teacher, Madame Bustier, awaited.

"Class, we have a new student joining us today. Please welcome Feyre Chen-McIver," Madame Bustier announced with a warm smile.

Feyre scanned the room, her eyes meeting those of her new classmates. There was Marinette, the girl with a kind smile who seemed to exude a quiet strength. Beside her was Alya, whose enthusiasm was evident even from a distance. Feyre felt a pang of anxiety but pushed it aside.

"Hello Feyre! Welcome," Marinette said, her voice sincere.

Alya nodded in agreement, flashing a friendly smile. "Yeah, welcome!"

Feyre shyly smiles to them before taking a seat next to Sophie, feeling slightly more at ease. As Madame Bustier began the day's lesson, Feyre tried to focus, but her mind wandered. She couldn't shake the feeling that this was the beginning of something significant—not just academically, but in ways she couldn't yet comprehend.

Madame Bustier welcomed the new school year with her usual warmth, writing the day's topic on the board: The Importance of Cultural Heritage and Identity. It was a fitting subject given the diversity within the classroom, and for Lianna, it felt particularly relevant.

"Today, we'll explore how our cultural backgrounds shape who we are and influence our perspectives," Madame Bustier began. "Let's start with a discussion. Can anyone share what their heritage means to them?"

Hands shot up around the room. Marinette spoke about her Franco-Chinese background and how it influenced her designs, however, a dramatic coughed was heard over by a female blonde. Eying her with curiosity and annoyance, Feyre could instantly guess this person doesn't like Marinette.

Alya passionately explained the significance of her Creole roots. Each story added a rich layer of diversity to the classroom.

Feyre listened intently, feeling a mix of admiration and anxiety. She knew her turn would come. When it did, she took a deep breath and shared a glimpse of her own unique heritage.

"I'm Feyre Chen-McIver. My mother is Sarah Chen, and my father is Isaac McIver. Growing up, I experienced a blend of traditions, from Chinese festivals to Scottish Highland games. It taught me to appreciate and embrace different cultures," she said, her voice steady but reserved.

Though the class were thoroughly listening to her, some couldn't help but whisper in hush conversations about the very popular surname which seems to be the recent topic around Paris.

Madame Bustier smiled whilst attempting to divert everyone's attention back to the subject. "Thank you, Feyre. Your story adds another beautiful thread to our tapestry of cultural identities."

As the discussion continued, the classroom door suddenly swung open, and the headmaster, Mr. Damocles, entered with a serious expression. "Madame Bustier, may I have a word with the class?" he asked.

Madame Bustier nodded, stepping aside as Mr. Damocles addressed the students. "Students, I regret to inform you that there's been a theft in the school. Several valuable items from the art room are missing. We're investigating the matter, but in the meantime, please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity."

Whispers filled the room. Feyre felt a pang of concern. The art room was one of the places she had looked forward to exploring, given her artistic inclinations. She exchanged a worried glance with Sophie.

"This isn't the first time this has happened," Marinette whispered to Alya. "We should keep our eyes open."

The school day passed in a blur of introductions and new experiences. By the time the final bell rang, Feyre felt both exhilarated and exhausted. She had met so many new faces, yet the theft incident lingered in her mind, casting a shadow over her otherwise promising first day.

As she walked home, the autumn leaves crunching under her feet, Feyre thought about her new classmates. Marinette's kindness, Alya's enthusiasm, Sophie's friendly guidance—all made her feel a little more at ease. But the theft...that was unsettling.

Entering her temporary apartment, she locked the door behind her and leaned against it, taking a deep breath. The familiar space brought her comfort. She dropped her bag and made her way to her room. Closing the door behind her, Feng flies out of her hand pouch, the tiny kwami stretching its wings.

"Hello, Feyre. How was your first day?" Feng asked, its voice filled with curiosity and warmth.

Feyre smiled. "It was...eventful. The school is amazing, and I met some really nice people. But there was a theft today. Valuable items were taken from the art room."

Feng's eyes widened. "That sounds serious. Do you think it's connected to anything sinister?"

"I'm not sure yet," Feyre replied, sitting on her bed. "But it felt...odd. Like there's more to it than just a simple theft."

Feng fluttered closer, its fiery aura comforting. "You have good instincts, Feyre. Trust them. And remember, as Ember Crest, you have the power to protect and uncover the truth."

Feyre nodded. "I know. It's just...I'm still getting used to everything—new school, new friends, and the responsibilities that will come when I publicly show myself as Ember Crest."

Feng perched on her shoulder. "You're not alone, Feyre I'm here with you, every step of the way. We'll figure this out together."

Feeling a renewed sense of determination, Feyre glanced out the window at the setting sun. "Thanks, Feng. I'll keep my eyes open and try to find out more about the theft. And maybe, just maybe, I'll start to trust some of my new friends."

Feng glowed warmly. "That's the spirit. One step at a time."

With a small smile, Feyre saw the reflection of the Phoenix Miraculous. The golden hairpin was firmly pinned on her styled hair and was reminded of the burden that comes with it. The day had been a whirlwind, but she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead—with Feng by her side and a new sense of purpose in her heart.

The theft cast a shadow over the otherwise bright start of the day. Feyre couldn't shake the feeling that this incident was just the beginning of a series of challenges she would face at Dupont Academy. Little did she know, her involvement in solving this mystery would bring her closer to her classmates and reveal the hidden strength within her. The Ember Crest was on the horizon, and Feyre's journey had just begun.