Rite of Passage

The second the trapdoor closed, Marinette practically threw herself at the unexpected miraculous, tearing open the envelope that sat under the black box.

"You will have to choose a new Black Cat. Remember what I have taught you. My condolences for your loss."

Her heart roared in her ears, her throat lodged itself closed, and her eyes burned.

No no no no.

This couldn't be happening. Her brain refused to accept the note's implications. She tore open the box, praying that it would hold any miraculous except the ring of destruction.

The ring sat cradled in velvet.

Whatever thread was left of her composure crumpled. She fell to her knees as wracking sobs overtook her.

She clutched the ring in her fist - now the only token she had left of her partner. She didn't even know his name.

OR, Master Fu's home and hideout has been compromised, and he suspects it's only a matter of time before Hawkmoth closes in on him and the miraculous box. Feeling desperate, he moves up his time table in evaluating Marinette to take on his role as Guardian. This requires her to go through the "Guardian's Trial" which involves her choosing all her own heroes, including a new Chat Noir. (Chat Noir is fine).

Disclaimer! - This story is NOT written by me, it was written by ' Kasiender ' on AO3.