The Algorithm

Chapter two - Clara Hailey

"We now know that The Algorithm is used to find 'special' individuals like Adrien. That's how they found you and the others." Tikki explained. "The Algorithm is used to search through hundreds of variables to find the perfect specimen for Akuma's experiments"

Marinette's head was spinning with this new information. "I don't understand, what are you saying?" She asked, rage burning down her throat at the thought of her only being "special" just because she was able to survive the excruciating pain Akuma had put her through. But she swallowed her anger, she didn't want to start an argument with Tikki, and a debate would just waste time they didn't have.

"The Algorithm searches through the medical history, genetics, and physical properties of every child on the planet, looking for the perfect ones for that set of experiments." Tikki elaborated. "You were one of those children. Less than an hour ago, the algorithm gave us Adrien's name then continued its search for more children. It took over three years for it to give us Adrien's name so we have no idea if it will ever give us results again. But we do know that this kid is next on Akuma's hit list. You have to get to him before Akuma does, or they may possibly have a superhuman weapon at their disposal."

Marinette didn't have time to be bitter, if it were up to her, no one would be put through Akuma's abuse. All the experiments, the training, the scars, the nightmares, the forgotten memories, it was all so senseless. Yes, she had been given amazing powers because of these experiments but the vivid memories of having her spine infused with metal still haunted her. Not even the comfort of sleep could block out the images of needles piercing her skin and blades slicing into her flesh. Marinette would give up her telekinesis in a heartbeat if it meant she could forget all they had done to her.

"Where is he now?" Marinette said quickly, she couldn't waste any more time, Akuma could already be stuffing this kid with wires like a thanksgiving turkey for all she knew.

"He's in Paris, we've arranged a meeting between you two," Plagg said just as quickly. "We've created a fake identity for you under the name of Clara Hailey, a photographer. You will be meeting him for a photo shoot but, your real assignment is to get him to GUARD by any means necessary. Do you accept this assignment, Agent 1492058?"

"Yes." Marinette responded without hesitation, she wanted to help. She needed to help, in any way that she could. She won't let another person fall victim to Akuma's abuse.

After a few minutes of mission preparation that included a quick assessment of Marinette's health, a recap of her assignment, and a fast disguise, Marinette walked through a doorway into a small garage, inside was a little black Ford with tinted windows and a tall Plagg leaning up against it. "All black huh? Not suspicious at all." Marinette said mockingly.

"It was either this or an armored truck, we thought this would be less conspicuous." Plagg replied as he opened the car door for her. "I've got to admit," He said in a sarcastic tone. "You can pull off blonde."

Marinette rolled her eyes. Her usual deep midnight blue hair was hidden under an ashen wig with straight locks and bangs that hung to her eyebrows. The blonde was much too long, cascading down her back and past her shoulder blades until it met the small of her back. Marinette always kept her hair a little above her shoulders so it would not grow too heavy so the sudden height made her neck ache. The golden locks were thick and always managed to get in her face. She constantly had to push the hair behind her ears but the dense locks continually escaped and blocked her eyesight. Even Marinette, whose limited fashion sense consisted of jeans and t-shirts, knew that the bleached color did not suit her in the slightest. It made her pale skin look washed out and her naturally bold blue eyes appear dull.