"Head up, (F/N), stay focused."

"S-Sorry."

You groaned an apology and sat up straighter, fighting the urge not to pass out right into your pretend bowl of soup. Bakugou whispered and asked if you were okay, but Hawks cut him off, pointing to Kirishima with his wing.

"Look at his posture; he's perfect. You should both be matching Eijirou."

"Yeah, because he got a full night's sleep..."

"No I didn't."

You growled under your breath, and Kirishima growled back, making you sigh again as you closed your eyes to compose yourself. Even with no bad dreams, you felt exhausted after last night. Meeting and having a midnight meal with Natsuo and Fuyumi in the kitchen while learning about the truth behind the Royal family's dark past felt more draining than dealing with the King and his right hand man. At least, for you; Bakugou seemed fine, a little pent up, but still the same grumpy Prince you had come to love. You looked over and felt Kirishimas snarky glare, glaring back and whispering an apology.

"I said we were sorry about last night-"

"Don't care, I'm better at this than you."

You huffed and winced as Hawks swatted at the back of your head with his wing, once again scolding you for not paying attention. Not only were you exhausted from last night, but you were exhausted from having to explain yourself to Kirishima, who had awoken to you and Bakugou leaving and coming back, giving him the uncertainty of if you two were really who you said you were. You woke up being threatened by the dragon, both you and Bakugou having to spend the morning getting ready explaining to him where you were and being scolded for breaking the rules you had agreed to. Trying to whisper another apology, Kirishima rolled his eyes and whispered back that he already forgave you, but was still irritated you two had broken an important promise.

"We didn't do anything that bad."

"Їt'Ѕ ҋөt ℓЇҜЄ ѠЄ ѠЄЯЄ ДℓөҋЄ ЄЇtӉЄЯ, ѠЄ ЅtДҰЄԀ tөԌЄtӉЄЯ."

"ҰЄДӉ БҴt Ї ѠДЅ ДℓөҋЄ."

"ДЯЄ ҰөҴ tӉЯЄЄ ԀөҋЄ?"

Hawks put his wing across the table, blocking Bakugou and Kirishima from their conversation, and you huffed, looking up at the man with wings. He's harsher than usual.

"Haven't we had enough practice for today? We've been at this for hours-"

"If it's been that long, why haven't you perfected it yet?"

"It doesn't need to be perfect."

You sighed and got to your feet, pushing Hawks wing out of your face as he crossed his arms and stood firm against you. You brushed out your pale green dress skirt before putting your hands on your hips, standing off with Hawks.

"People think we're monsters already, won't they expect a few mistakes?"

"That's why you all need to be as graceful as royalty. They're expecting mistakes, so it'll be a shock to see how perfect you three have become."

You went to talk back, but a red feather appeared in front of your mouth, covering the lower half of your face as you gasped and watched the red feather float back towards Hawks. It was...detached? Was it magic? A side effect to having wings? Hawks sighed and rubbed his temple, shaking his head as Bakugou and Kirishima both got to their feet to join you.

"You three don't realize how important it is to have you properly trained before the ball-"

"With all due respect, we aren't that barbaric, Hawks."

Kirishima spoke up, stepping inbetween you and Hawks on instinct.

"We won't act out during the event, we just need a few hours of talking, which, I'm already very good at. Bakugou has been practicing too, and (F/N) only really needs to practice her dancing."

"There's a lot more to a Royal ball than conversing and dancing-"

"Then we can practice over the next few days. Just give us a day to relax and-"

"No."

Hawks lowered his eyes, glaring at you as he cut you off, and you glared back. With a huff of irritation, you motioned to the door and tried to walk out, but Hawks was faster, getting in front of the door and spreading his wings out to block you. You growled and grabbed Bakugou and Kirishima by their shoulders, pulling them into a huddle and not even caring to whisper.

"We need a plan."

"I can hear you."

"ѠӉДt Ԁө ѠЄ ҋЄЄԀ?"

"Д ҏℓДҋ, ӍҰ ҏЯЇҋҪЄ."

"ӉӍ...Ї'ѴЄ Ԍөt Д ҏℓДҋ."

"Ї ҪДҋ ЅtЇℓℓ ӉЄДЯ ҰөҴ."

Bakugou leaned closer to you and whispered in your ear, making your eyes widen as a smirk formed on your lips. Hawks wanted to interrupt you, but stopped as you took a few steps back, waiting for Bakugou and Kirishima to cover their ears. You took a deep breath and screamed at the top of your lungs, making Hawks wince and cover his own.

"SHOTOOO!!"

The four of you shook off the loud cry you had just let out, Hawks opening his mouth before being hit by the door swinging open, the Prince and his Knight busting into the room.

"(F/N)?! Is everything alright?"

"Shoto, don't just run in before me!"

Shoto leaned against the doorframe, gasping for air as Iida quickly jumped in front of him, asking again if everyone was okay. You nodded and thanked them for showing up, stepping towards the Prince before side eyeing Hawks, curtsying to the man with wings sarcastically.

"Have a good day, Hawks."

Bakugou and Kirishima were right behind you, bowing sarcastically as Bakugou flipped Hawks off on the way out. Shoto finally caught his breath, readjusting his arm in his sling as him and Iida followed you into the hall, immediately followed by Hawks. You quickly turned to the prince and leaned against him, taking his arm in yours.

"Shoto, we need your help getting out of these lessons."

Shoto nodded without explanation; he had endured plenty of Hawks lessons throughout his life to know what you needed. He turned to Hawks, who quickly flew overhead and stopped the five of you from continuing down the hallway.

"Prince Shoto, I'm sorry but-"

"No, I'm sorry Hawks. I forgot to tell you I had plans with them today. They can skip out on lessons for a few hours."

Hawks spread his wings across the hallway once again, blocking any path for you to take. He glared at Shoto, and Shoto glared right back, their words laced with an irritated venom, like this wasn't the first time these two had argued.

"I'd like to hear about these plans."

"I plan on..."

Shoto looked over to you in thought, before looking back over to his father's right hand man.

"I plan on showing these three around the castle. I wanted to show (F/N) the gardens today, since the weather is so nice."

"With all due respect, my prince, these three are-"

"Are done with lessons for the day, as I said earlier."

There was a tension in the air that made your throat tighten, seeing a stand off between Shoto Todoroki and Hawks. You honestly weren't sure who held more power, as your 'lessons' were a direct order from the King, but Shoto was royalty himself. Who held more power, the Son of the King, or the Hand of the King? Hawks sighed and shook his head, crossing his arms and speaking sarcastically.

"While I'd love for you to have some free time and enjoy your little dates with (F/N)-"

"They aren't-"

"It's not-"

"I just can't disobey an order from the King. If they aren't going to do their lessons, they'll be confined to their assigned room."

Hawks smirked, his visor glinting in the sun shining through the window and keeping his eyes hidden from view.

"I don't make the rules, little Prince."

Shoto stayed quiet, thinking for a moment before speaking again, his voice irritated and almost angry.

"So, that bastard wants to make it an order? Fine."

"Shoto-"

"I'll argue his word. Let's go see him."

You turned wide eyed to Shoto, unsure if you really wanted to see a fight break out between the King and his son. You winced, hearing Hawks laugh as if sent a chill down your spine. He just laughed...at Shotos threat? You looked back over to see Hawks laughing loudly to himself, removing his visor and revealing his wild, golden eyes, wiping a tear from them.

"Alright, let's go see him. You two! Follow behind."

You all turned your heads to see two guards on patrol, glancing at each other before beginning an escort down the halls. He knew they were coming before they turned the corner, his hearing must be sharper than you thought. Your mind went into panic mode, unsure of how this was going to play out. If something bad were to happen, shouldn't you have had a dream about it? Isn't that how it should work?! Shoto bumped you with his arm as you leaned closer, your breath slowing as his own hit your ear.

"Just trust me, (F/N)."

"O-Okay.."

The party turned down the hall, up some stairs, and after the route began to feel familiar, Shoto turned once again, heading in the direction adjacent to the throne room. Hawks immediately flowed suit, flying next to Shotos side within seconds.

"My Prince, this isn't-"

"Just a moment, Hawks. I need to grab something for my father anyways."

Hawks lip twitched as Shoto moved past him, continuing to lead everyone. He lead the group to a wider, beautifully decorated hall, stopping at one of the four large doors along the walls.

"Here we are."

"Only a moment, Shoto, we've wasted enough time as it is."

"Sorry, Iida."

Iida shook his head, nodding to Hawks when he commended him on his passion to stay on task. You rolled your eyes as Shoto took out a key and opened the door to his bedroom, leading you, Bakugou, and Kirishima inside. Your eyes widened as you moved into a room three times the size of the one you were staying in; a bed four times the size of the one you had at home, and a balcony door that towered to the ceiling, the sunlight shining through bringing in enough to light the entire room. Shoto noticed your awe, smiling as he also noticed Bakugous irritation, and his smile fell. He joked about your look of wonder, and you shook away the expression, stumbling over your words as Shoto glanced at Iida.

"It-It's just, this room is almost as big as the village center of Egaby!"

"Egaby is that small? I'm a little shocked."

"Hawks, I think that once we reach the thrown room, we should discuss more than just the issue of their lessons. I think a few things should be explained."

You could hear Iida chatting away with Hawks, the man with wings slowly losing his patience as he tried to stay civil with the knight. Shoto was quick to move out of view, before gesturing for Kirishima to do the same. He mouthed something you couldn't see, and the redhead thought for a moment, slowly nodding in understanding before moving behind the door. They look at each other again, before slowly closing the door, Shoto locking it and whispering for Kirishima to move a heavy chair and block the doorway.

"You'll have to thank Iida later, he's great at distractions."

"He's...oh!"

Shoto began to move across the room, weakly jogging to the balcony as you and Kirishima followed behind, grabbing Bakugous arm on the way. Within seconds, Hawks was shouting from behind the door, his fist banging against it as he ordered Shoto to open it.

"Not as great as you had hoped."

Shoto used the same key,  unlocking and tugging at the balcony door as you moved to the other side to help.

"I've done this in the past when I've wanted to run from my father's lessons. This will be your escape from yours as well."

"Oh, Shoto, thank you so much."

"I know you wanted to see more of Enjeer anyways, and I'm guessing Bakugou is starting to feel trapped."

You took Shotos arms and smiled as Shoto smiled back, his eyes slowly lighting up in excitement. The balcony was similar to the one you had been on with Shoto before, a small fountain surrounded by flowers. The guard rail along the side cut off in the center, creating a wide gateway to the outside world with a small table and chairs for viewing the kingdom. Kirishima and Bakugou moved past you, inhaling the fresh air with opened arms as they made their way to the edge of the balcony.

"ԌөԀЅ Ї ӍЇЅЅЄԀ tӉЄ ҒЯЄЅӉ ДЇЯ."

"ҋө ѠөҋԀЄЯ ЄѴЄЯҰөҋЄ ЇЅ ЅҴҪӉ Д ЅtҴҪҜ Ҵҏ БЇtҪӉ ӉЄЯЄ, tӉЄҰ ҋЄѴЄЯ өҏЄҋ tӉЄЇЯ ѠЇҋԀө-"

Bakugous sentence was cut short as he looked over the balcony, his eyes widening and his breath catching in his throat. Kirishima looked over right after, his own stomach dropping as he shouted to you and Shoto.

"Uh, guys-"

"ѠЄ ҪДҋ't Ԍө tӉЇЅ ѠДҰ."

You leaned your head to see past Shoto, the princes expression fading again as Bakugou spoke.

"Ѕ-ЅЄЯЇөҴЅℓҰ, ѠЄ ҪДҋ't-"

"БДҜҴԌөҴ, ѠДЇt-"

"ҋө!"

"ѠӉДt'Ѕ ѠЯөҋԌ?"

You slowly let go of Shoto, the prince hesitant to let go you as you moved to the edge of the balcony, your eyes widening as Shoto followed behind you.

"It's...safer than it looks."

Down below was clear, cool water, rushing from beneath the castle and down the hills, under bridges and pathways that lead into the city of Enjeer. You leaned back up and glanced at Shoto, shaking your head slowly as you spoke.

"I-I don't think Katsuki will be able to-"

"ЇЅ-ЇЅ ЅӉЄ ЅДҰЇҋԌ Ї ҪДҋ't Ԁө Їt?!"

Bakugou looked angrily at you, looking back at the edge before backing up as he shook his head, stumbling over his words.

"Ї-Ї'ℓℓ ЈҴЅt ҪℓЇӍБ ԀөѠҋ tӉЄ ЅЇԀЄ."

"Ї Ԁөҋ't tӉЇҋҜ tӉДt'Ѕ ҏөЅЅЇБℓЄ БДҜҴԌөҴ..."

Kirishima leaned even further, pointing to the side of the castle as Bakugou looked over the balcony edge again, seeing the clean stone wall, it's surface damp and smooth with nothing to grab onto. Bakugou growled and stormed back towards Shoto, shoving his finger in the other princes face.

"ЇЅ tӉЇЅ ЅөӍЄ ҜЇҋԀ өҒ ЈөҜЄ?!"

"He's asking if you're really sure this is safe."

Kirishima mistranslated and moved inbetween the two princes, trying to get Bakugou to back off. Shoto shook his head and pointed lazily to the edge of the balcony.

"It is, I've done it once before."

"Only once?"

You moved closer, your expression growing more nervous as Shotos eyes widened, seeing your own eyes full of hesitation.

"W-Well yeah, I did it once, and then all other times, Uraraka has used magics..."

You sighed, quickly accepting his apology as you moved back over to the edge. You looked over the balcony and into the rushing water. It was clearer than the Mirag Bay, was it fresh water?

"Maybe there's another way down without jumping? I don't think-"

Your sentence was cut off as a window shattered nearby, and the four of you wincing as a hallway window was broken. Something shot at you from the side, and you gasped as a red feather the size of your forearm sliced against your cheek. Bakugou shouted your name and you stumbled from the shock, hitting the edge of the balcony. It flew through the air, turning on its own and speeding past you again. It was Hawks. It was the same feather as before! You ducked to the side and took another step back, feeling nothing under your heel, and you turned your head to look at what was happening, too late to give another reaction.

Your body fell backwards, seeing Bakugou, Kirishima, and Shoto leave your sight, and suddenly all you could see was the sky, bright orange from the sun already beginning to set beside you. You heard your name shouted again by all three of them, and then Bakugou was back in front of you, flying over the edge as you both began to fall.

"(F/N)!"

Your eyes widened and you reached out to him as you fell, Bakugou quickly grabbing your hand and pulling you to him. The wind whipped through your hair and your dress skirt fluttered around you, encasing your bodies. He called your name and squeezed his eyes shut as you both went hurdling into the rushing waters below, Todoroki shouting excitedly and tried to urge Kirishima to follow as the doors to his bedroom were thrown open, Hawks shooting past both the prince and the dragon to the edge of the balcony. He scanned the water, sending down four more large feathers into the river below, shouting in anger when they came back empty and wet. Hawks whipped his head around angrily, his eye twitching at the prince as the two guards from before were already on Kirishima, pinning him to the ground and trying to arrest him.

"I didn't even do anything!"

"You had a hand in helping the Egabian escape, now keep quiet!"

"Bastards..."

Kirishima growled and glared up at Shoto, who went to speak to stop the guards, but was quickly shut down by Hawks.

"Let him go-"

"You little shit."

Hawks leaned down to Shotos eye level and grabbed his face, squeezing his jaw and making the prince grab onto his arm, growling back.

"They needed a break."

"And now two magics users are lost in the Kingdom, and I have to be the ones to find them."

"Better get started then."

Shoto smirked and jerked his face from Hawks grasp, and the hand on the king sighed, elbowing Shoto in the stomach and making the prince fall to his knees. Iida stood by, wincing as Shoto coughed, unable to hold himself up with only one working arm.

"I will find them, but not until you two are dealt with. Iida, get him to his feet. We're going to the King."

Iida apologized to Shoto as he helped him to his feet, checking to make sure he wasn't severely injured as Kirishima was pulled to his feet as well. Both were shoved forward, Kirishima a little more aggressively as they were led back inside and into the hall, heading towards the familiar area. Kirishima tried to lean over to speak to Shoto alone, but was stopped, so he spoke loudly for everyone to hear.

"Was this all a part of your plan, bastard prince?"

"Mostly...getting them out of the castle for a while was the main idea...and that went well."

"Some idea, that stunt was dangerous, and how do you know-"

"They'll be fine."

Shoto looked over at Kirishima, his eyes lighting up as he spoke, making Kirishima only grow more irritated.

"It's (F/N), she's amazing, and they can handle themselves."

"But-"

"We're here."

Hawks turned around and glared at Shoto and Kirishima bickering, making them stop as he opened the door to the grand hall.

"I hope you have an explanation ready."

...

"...(F/N)!"

You opened your eyes, immediately trying to blink away the pain as you were pulled under the rushing water. You breached the surface and gasped for air, only to be pulled under again, and you grimaced at the pain in your arm. You held your breath and blinked again, realizing the water was fresh and tried to take in your surroundings, seeing Bakugous hand gripped tightly around your arm. You turned your body and felt his hand, reaching up his arm and finding his face, slapping him gently through the water to get his attention. His grip on you loosened for a moment, as if he realized he was hurting you, but it was still too tight move freely.

You swung your other arm up and gasped for breath as you broke the surface of the water again, pulling Bakugou up with you. He gasped loudly and started to shout, letting the water consume him again as you shouted back at him, trying to get him above the surface. He's panicking. You took another breath and went under again, trying to get your hands on Bakugou to let you lead him. Your dress wasn't helping either, dragging you down the heavier it got and you groaned to yourself, wishing you could rip the fabric off. Your lungs were starting to hurt as you helped lift Bakugou towards the surface, shouting at him as you both gasped for air.

"Katsuki! Breathe!!"

"ҒҴҪҜ! ЅӉЇt! (Ғ/ҋ)!"

"Ѕtөҏ! ӉДҋԀЅөӍЄ! Ԁөҋ't!"

Bakugou continued to flail, splashing water around and struggling to stay up as you searched for a solution. You felt your body lurch, and your eyes widened as you felt yourself get stuck in place, a tugging feeling on the side of your dress. Did you get caught on something?! You latched onto Bakugou and called his name again, clinging to his body and slapping him once more. He stopped squirming when he realized you were both staying in one spot, the water rushing past you no longer throwing you around as wildly as it was before. Suddenly you were both upright, able to gather your thoughts and speak to each other with a little clarity.

"ҰөҴ ԌөөԀ?!"

"Ұ-ҰЄДӉ, Are you okay?"

"Yes...I'm stuck, uh, ӍҰ, ҴӍ, ӉЄℓҏ?"

You nodded to the water and tugged on Bakugous clothing, gesturing to your dress as he slowly nodded in understanding.

"ҰөҴЯ ҪℓөtӉЄЅ ДЯЄ ЅtҴҪҜ? өҋ ЅөӍЄtӉЇҋԌ? Ї Ԁөҋ't-"

Bakugou thought for a minute, pulling on you a little as you winced, seeing if he could just tear you from whatever you were stuck on. You looked around and saw that, further down the river, the water thinned and flattened onto the land. A small bank? You called Bakugous name again and pointed over to the stretch of land, turning him towards you again once he saw what you were talking about.

"Land."

"L-Land."

"You can do this, Katsuki-"

"I-Ї ҪДҋ't-"

"Ї tЯҴЅt ҰөҴ, ҜДtЅҴҜЇ."

He stared back at you as you stared him down, your eyes giving him an ounce of hope as he looked back at the stretch of land. You maneuvered his hands to your waist, letting him cling to you as you moved your arms in a breaststroke manner, showing Bakugou what he had to do. You felt under the water and pressed your hand against his leg, saying it in your language a few times.

"Legs. Kick. Swim."

"L-Legs, Kieck, Sw-Swem."

"Good enough, now go!"

Bakugou looked back at the land, hesitant before looking at your determined expression. He furrowed his eyebrows and nodded, his grasp on you loosening as the water began to pull him away. He reached down, pulling out and handing you his knife, nodding to you before inhaling deeply, turning towards the direction of the waters flow and began to float closer to the bank. This...wasn't as bad as he thought. He did the same motion with his arms, separating the water in front of him as his body propelled forward, and his heart beat slowed. This really isn't that hard! He could feel his boots, heavy and filled with water, dragging him down as he continued to kick, forcing his way through the rushing water. It was hard, but it was nothing for Bakugou Katsuki.

Eventually he felt something hit his hands, and then his chest. Gravel. He clawed at the land under him as he crawled out of the water and onto the bank, gasping and coughing up the water he had previously swallowed. His arms and legs felt heavy, and he collapsed into the dirt, his body turned towards the river as his eyes scanned for you, seeing you waving and smiling at him.

"ЇԀЇөt...ѠөЯЯҰ ДБөҴt ҰөҴЯЅЄℓҒ."

He watched as you dove under the water, disappearing for a moment before breaching the surface again, already beginning to move towards the same place he had reached. Once he was off of you, you could easily move through the water, diving underneath to cut the part of the dress that had gotten caught between two rocks. You were used to the rivers and ocean that encircled Egaby, with your bow always getting caught and stuck under the waters surface. This was child's play to you. You gasped for breath and swam over to land, coughing as you climbed out of the water and collapsed next to Bakugou. You chuckled as Bakugou quickly hovered over you, backing up as you sat up, his face still close to yours as he checked you for injuries. Looking around, you were in a small field near the edge of the river, similar to the one you and Bakugou had sat along when you first visited the city. He ran his hands through your wet hair and along your skin, wiping the blood away from the cut Hawks feather had given you.

"tӉДt БДЅtДЯԀ ЇЅ ԌөҋҋД ҏДҰ ҒөЯ tӉЇЅ."

"ѠӉҰ ДЯЄ ҰөҴ Ѕө ӉДҋԀЅөӍЄ?"

Bakugou shook his head and ignored your mistranslated question, finishing his examination of you before falling back onto the ground next to you. He let out a heavy sigh of relief and felt the Earth beneath him, closing his eyes and trying to appear unaffected by what had just happened. You slowly sat up and felt your body, checking yourself for injuries as well before taking another glance around. There were no people, the sounds of civilians and animals off in the distance. You turned towards Bakugou and this time, you hovered over him, smiling and praising the prince for being able to get out of the river alone. You brushed his hair from his forehead, leaning closer and checking him for injuries this time. He always looked you over, but you haven't checked on him in a while. Bakugou smiled and leaned up, kissing you as you smiled back, brushing your thumb over a small cut on his temple. It wasn't even bleeding, just a little scratch from a rock or something in the water, but you kissed it anyways, giggling as Bakugou wrapped his arms around you and turning you both over. He hovered over you and ran his fingers through your hair again, once more checking the cut on your cheek before leaning up and getting to his feet.

"Come."

"өҜДҰ."

You brushed off the commanding tone, taking Bakugous hand as he led you towards the open city. You carefully maneuvered the roads, Bakugou checking the surroundings before each corner. The civilians ignored you for the most part, but your soaked clothes and fancy outfits made you stand out like a sore thumb. Glancing around, you noticed the area looked a little familiar, and stared down an alley, gasping as you tugged on Bakugous hand. You pointed to an open shop nearby, pulling the prince along as you stepped into the building. A familiar voice called to you from across the room, already feeling warm and semi-welcomed as the owner of Jeanist's Clothes and Fabrics leaned his head around the corner.

"Ah, you again."

"Hello! I'm, well, we're back. Do you think-"

"Perfect timing! Come, over here."

Before you could even catch your breath, you were whisked through the store, standing on a round pedestal similar to the one in the castle where you were dressed for the day. The tall blonde man fixed his hair and pulled out a long measuring tape, directing you as he began to prep you for gathering your measurements.

"I've been asking for your numbers all day and they've refused my concerns. It's a work of magic you appeared in here today."

"I recognized the street, and we were hoping we could get some new clothes."

"You're wearing something from the Royal Family aren't you-"

The man hesitated as he looked at your skirt, glaring up at you as you avoided his offended eyes.

"It's torn-"

"It got...caught on something."

Bakugou moved closer and slowly sat down in a large dark blue chair, the fabric scratchy and tough against his skin. What was it? He felt at the material as you were pivoted and moved against your will, trying to come up with an excuse.

"The uh, the gardens! Outside the castle, the Prince was showing me the gardens and I tripped and fell...into, a pond..."

The man continued to glare at you, knowing you were lying as he sighed and stepped away.

"I'll trade you something new, in exchange for the dress. I have to try and fix it; all of those dresses are one of a kind."

"Really?"

"Yes, I made them all."

The shop owner reappeared, carrying a dress and a small pile of new clothing for Bakugou. He handed them to the prince before swatting him out of the chair, muttering about the water staining the fabric.

"I make all the clothing for the Royal family, all their events, their wedding dresses, their entire wardrobe is made by yours truly."

"That's incredible, I didn't know-"

"Which is why it has been infuriating to not receive your measurements."

You tilted your head as the man pulled a curtain on wheels around you, giving you both the privacy from Bakugou to change out of your dress. He began to undo the sinches and strings of your corset, continuing to complain as you felt your body loosen from its constraints.

"I'm making your dress for the ball, and it must be perfect."

"Y-You are?"

"What did you think you were going to wear?!"

"I just-"

"However, I've never had an artist block like this before."

You shut your mouth, knowing you were unable to get a full sentence out with this man, and let him continue.

"There's so little information on Egaby, I haven't the faintest idea as to where to begin. I've collected as much available information as I could, but-"

"I could, tell you what it's like."

You cut the man off this time, turning around as he helped you slip your arms into the sleeves of the new dress.

"I've been reading the information this country has on Egaby myself...and it's not...accurate anymore. I could tell you what our clothing is like."

You could see his eyes lighting up as you readjusted the dress, looking behind the curtain to see if Bakugou needed any help. When the prince looked over and saw you staring at him, he flinched, knowing you saw he hadn't even started getting dressed.

"I would love nothing more if you-"

"But, on one condition."

The man's eyes narrowed and he chuckled, swapping you out with Bakugou as he began to help the prince as well.

"You're sounding like royalty yourself, asking for demands when you're backed into a corner. You know I couldn't get your measurements today because I heard you had disappeared."

You stiffened, holding your ground as you checked yourself in the mirror. It was a much simpler dress; a basic brown dress with a beige corset, the sleeves thin and sheer and off shoulder. It was much more what you were used to and a lot more lightweight than what you had been wearing lately.

"I will tell you what you want to know about Egaby, and let you get the numbers you need, if you don't tell anyone we were here."

The man hummed at your request, pulling the curtain back as Bakugou appeared in an outfit also similar to what he had been forced to wear. The shirt was puffy and beige, his vest the same shade of brown as your dress with pants to match. A nice gold vest chain decorating his abdomen as you traded places with the prince. You complimented Bakugou, smiling softly as he sat back down in the chair, his stiff uncomfortable aura unwavering. The shop owner repositioned you and once again grabbed his measuring tape, moving your arms where they needed to be.

"I'll honor your request, for my benefit, of course."

"Of course."

You spent a while standing on that pedestal, going over the clothing style of your home village. You described what you usually wore, what your parents and siblings wore, what you adorned for celebrations like weddings and even rituals for yearly offerings to old gods and annual events. He asked very detailed questions, some you couldn't even answer with the knowledge you had on your own people, but the man worked with what you knew. He asked about any headdresses, and you hesitated for a moment, glancing over at Bakugou, who was slowly falling asleep in the chair behind you. You smiled and put your index fingers on your nose, trailing them over your cheeks as you described what you wanted. The shop owner glanced at Bakugou as well, not admitting to you that he knew much more about mirag clothing than you probably assumed, but he took note regardless.

After a little over an hour of writing down information as well as every last measurement of your body, you thanked the man and woke Bakugou up, helping the tired prince to his feet.

"I'm grateful for the information you've given me. I plan on incorporating your Egabian style into the dress for the ball, and this information is well beyond anything I had on paper."

"Of course, and, thank you again, for the new clothes."

"Think of it as repayment, for the information."

You headed for the door, tugging Bakugou along with you, before turning back and thanking the man again. He waved you away and you were out on the streets of Enjeer once again, the sun having fully set and the street lamps lighting the roads ahead of you. You moved out into the empty street and twirled once, still holding Bakugous hand as the prince laughed and pulled you towards him, playfully holding you in his arms in a dancing position. You delved into the streets, holding each other and rudimentarily dancing along the cobblestone. You laughed in his arms and he chuckled as you spun around again, the two of you finding your way into a busier street. The sounds of society began to engulf you, and you pulled Bakugou along towards what looked like a festival.

Decorations scattered the area; small flags fluttered above you as they hung from strings strewn between the lampposts and buildings. Carts with food and toys were set up along the sidewalks and a large archway covered in posters and papers stood tallest amongst the buildings. You took in the view, turning around as Bakugou tapped your shoulder and offered you a decorative eye mask, adorning a similar one himself. You thanked him and curtsied, putting the mask over your eyes and giggling as he also handed you an apple, playfully scolding the prince for obviously stealing the items you had. He shrugged and took a bite of his own apple, pointing to the archway that people were filing in underneath.

"ѠӉДt Ԁө ҰөҴ tӉЇҋҜ ЇЅ ԌөЇҋԌ өҋ өѴЄЯ tӉЄЯЄ?"

"Let's go find out."

You could easily guess what Bakugou was asking, taking his hand and taking a bite from your apple before leading the prince under the archway. You glimpsed at the papers, seeing eye catching words and beautiful people in costumes on every piece.

Mirio's Illusions! Come see the enchanting Hado! Special Performance starring Mirio Togata and crew! Bedazzling magics!

"Magics? I thought it was banned in the country."

"It is, but this is all just illusions."

You jumped, turning to see Shinsou Hitoshi behind you. Bakugou felt your grip on him tighten and he turned around, side eyeing the purple haired boy as he stared boredly back.

"Is this-"

"Oh, yes, this is Bakugou, you remember him."

Shinsou nodded at Bakugou, the prince unwavering as Shinsou chuckled nervously.

"There's no...ill feelings towards...you know."

"Not at all, you helped us try to escape the city before, so we're good."

"Tried?"

You moved further into the square, explaining how even though Shinsou and Kirishimas plan worked, you were still caught by Hawks and escorted to the castle, and how you had left, but are now back and staying inside with the Royal family. Shinsou sighed and shook his head, grabbing a bag of something off a nearby cart. You also went to scold the boy for stealing, but stopped when he offered whatever was inside to you. It was lightly colored, fluffy and flaky looking, and you took a piece, eating it when Shinsou said it was good. It crunched, but it was so soft at the same time. What was it? You took the bag and offered a piece to Bakugou, rolling your eyes as the prince squeezed the piece between two fingers and let it crumble to the ground.

"So, you snuck out to see the show?"

"We snuck out to get away from everyone for a while. We don't even know what this is."

"Ah, well in that case-"

Shinsou was cut off as a familiar grey fabric wrapped around his neck, dragging him backwards as a small child laughed loudly. You and Bakugou turned to see Aizawa Shouta pulling Shinsou away, a small girl wearing a white dress and cloak jumping up and down near him.

"He's flirting again, Papa! Get him before he makes a fool of himself!"

"You don't have to shout that so loudly, Eri!"

"Aizawa!"

You hesitated for a moment, freezing up as the man came closer and put his hand down on your shoulder, Bakugou tensing up as he tried to read the situation.

"Don't worry, kid, I'm not gonna take you in right now. I'm off duty."

"Off...duty?"

Shinsou untangled himself and leaned close to you, whispering under his breath.

"Sensei here is a bounty hunter, retired, but he helps the King when they need to find peopl-"

Shinsou was cut off again as Aizawa smacked the back of his head, keeping his other hand on the small girl named Eri. She stared up at you intently, her eyes wide and making you look away.

"He likes to brag, but like he said, I'm retired. I don't do much anymore."

"That's such a lie-"

"Is this THE (F/N)?"

Everyone looked down at Eri, her eyes shining as she jumped up excitedly, her cloak hood falling off her head to reveal her long white hair and a small horn sticking out of her head. Shinsou was quick to drop the sarcastic attitude, fixing her hood and whispering something down at her level, the small girls lip quivering as she had just been scolded. Shinsou sighed and stood up, ruffling her cloak hood and whispering again.

"Did you...see that?"

"We...didn't see anything."

You smiled weakly and offered the bag of strange food to Aizawa, who declined but offered some to Eri, who immediately stopped sulking after you crouched down and gave her some of the salty snack. You continued to follow the line of people, seeing different acts and stunts around the square. People walking on poles, dancing with fire, throwing things. There was a booth with a line to win prizes that stretched far behind you, and you watched as lights floated above you; candles held in lanterns that danced lightly in the night sky.

Eventually you made it to the entrance of the tent, the smells of fresh bread and fruits entering your senses as you made your way inside. The lighting was brighter than outside, chairs and benches scattered about as probably over a hundred people gathered inside. There were balconies along the walls that held people in fancier clothing with soy glasses to watch the event. Upper class citizens? Would Todoroki come to something like this? Aizawa led the four of you to an area near the middle, leading you down a section with four chairs. He sat down tiredly, Shinsou next to him, you next to Shinsou, and Bakugou on your left. Eri sat excitedly in Shinsous lap, eating the snack you had given her still as she lifted the bag up to you and offered you some.

"You really are beautiful, (F/N)."

"O-Oh, thank you! You're very beautiful too, uh, Eri? I love your dress."

"I wear it everytime we come here to match Uncle Mirio! He is amazing!"

"Uncle Mirio?"

"He's a performer here, they've all helped us a bunch, so we come to their show for Eri."

You nodded in understanding, taking the snack from Eri and offering some to Bakugou, only eating a piece when you pressed one to his lips. He shrugged at its bland and salty taste, taking a few more pieces to judge before offering you on, wrapping his arm around your shoulders as the lights dimmed down, the crowd going silent as Eri stared at Bakugous hand against your skin.

"(F/N) is already with someone, brother-"

"Shush, it's starting."

The lights dimmed down so much that you couldn't see in front of you, the only light being on the large stage ahead. The crowd was mostly quiet, whispers and gasps of surprise emitting from the people as smoke appeared on stage. Music boomed overhead as drums and horns were played loudly from all around you, and you jumped as another spotlight appeared on one of the balconies. A beautiful woman with long purple hair in a gorgeous dress smiled and waved to everyone, sitting dangerously on the edge of the balcony.

"Welcome! I am here, Princess Hado, hi everybody! I'm so happy to see you all tonight!"

People cheered for the woman named Princess Hado, calling out her beauty and complimenting how perfect she looked. You glanced over at Bakugou, seeing his eyes staring at her, not a hint of amazement or excitement. Not that it mattered to you. You snuggled into his arm and took his other hand, huffing as he leaned closer and whispered.

"You are more beautiful, doun't cry."

"I'm not, be quiet."

Princess Hado continued to smile and wave at everyone, the crowd shouting as she stood up on the edge of the balcony, her fluffy hi-low dress showing off her long legs and dramatically tall heels. She peered out into the crowd, holding her hand above her eyes as if to shield the lights from view.

"We have a very nice crowd tonight, I can barely see everybody! Can you all hear me okay?"

The crowd erupted in sound, everyone cheering as she nodded and clapped her hands, jumping around on the edge and concerning the people who hadn't see the show before.

"Wonderful! We have a great show planned for everyone. But...hang on, what is that over there?!"

Hado posed and pointed over to the large stage where the smoke was coming from, the large curtains rumbling as a massive bird claw crept out from behind it. Bakugou tensed up, and you narrowed your eyes, gripping his hand tighter. What is that?! A giant bird?! A large feathered wing came into view and then with a loud crack and a puff of smoke, another performer was on stage, this one with dark blue hair and a stance that screamed 'I really don't want to be here'. The man stood awkwardly, the giant bird talon and wing coming from his large cloak. He spoke quietly, his voice almost cracking as he tried to speak as loudly as Hado did.

"It...It is I, the great Demon Lord, Tamaki Amajiki...hn, here to kidnap you, Princess Hado! Y-You're too beautiful! For...this kingdom-"

"Oh no! The Demon Lord! And the Hero of Enjeer is no where to be seen?! I guess I'll have to take you down myself!"

Princess Hado reeled her hand back, throwing a small ball across the room and at the other performer. The 'demon lord' swatted the ball away with his massive wing, letting it explode midair and releasing a cloud of glitter and smoke. The crowd gasped and applauded as Tamaki swung his wing, clearing the smoke and sending a gust of wind  towards Hado. The wind made her wobble, sending her falling off of the balcony with shouts and cries from the audience. You almost stood up, your eyes widened as Shinsou grabbed your arm and pulled you back down, whispering that they're professionals and that it was just an act.

Right as he spoke, Hado glanced down and saw your frightened expression. She smiled and winked, her body levitating high above the crowd. She continued to cry out for the 'Hero of Enjeer', calling out for the hero that would save the world while floating gracefully through spotlights and more smoke, before falling delicately into Tamakis bird claw of an arm. They disappeared behind the curtains and the crowd roared, excited for the next scene. You eased up, sighing with relief as you realized it was just an act, looking over at Bakugou and seeing the blonde slowly relax as well.

"How did she do that?"

"Strings and wires, I'm sure if you looked closely, you could see them, but the smoke helps hide everything from view."

"She can fly!"

Eri jumped up in Shinsous lap, ignoring his explanation and throwing her hands in the air. You agreed with the young girl, chuckling as she climbed onto you, mimicking Hado and moving around the air. You thought back to Uraraka and how she could float gracefully, wondering if strings and wires were really all there was to it. You were pulled from your thoughts when you heard Bakugou mumble, looking over to see Eri reaching out at the prince.

"You're (F/N)'s prince, right?"

"Ԁөҋ't ℓЄt ӉЄЯ ҋЄДЯ ӍЄ."

"What?"

You laughed nervously and lifted Eri up and away from Bakugou, handing her back to Shinsou and even adjusting her hood before Shinsou could.

"He um, he is, my prince. He's also, uh, very shy."

"He doesn't speak the same language."

You leaned in closer and pressed your finger to your lips, whispering so that only the people in your party could hear.

"It's true, but let's keep that a secret between us, okay?"

"Why do adults hide so many secrets? Everyone is always saying we can't talk about things."

Eri sunk back into Shinsous lap, pulling her hood even further over her forehead. You sighed and shook your head, used to the deeper questions children often asked.

"Sometimes, we have to have secrets to protect the ones we love, right? You'd keep a secret for these two, wouldn't you?"

Eri looked up and over at Shinsou and Aizawa, nodding in agreement as you smiled at her.

"I'm doing the same for Bakugou."

"Because you love him?"

"Mhm."

You glanced over at Bakugou, smiling as he leaned over and pecked you on the cheek, snuggling back into your seat as the lights began to move and the music started up again. The curtains on stage were pulled aside to reveal Tamaki Amajiki standing on a large pile of debris, a cage hanging from the rafters with Princess Hado inside.

"Someone help me!"

"There's no one to save you, Hado! I-I'm the only one here!"

"That's what you think!"

A voice behind you startled the crowd, everyone turning to see a blonde performer in white armor and a large red cape, his smile wide and his eyes determined. He jumped from the balcony he had come from, swinging on a rope that must've been placed beforehand, summersaulting onto the stage. The crowd cheered and howled, the second act beginning as Hado cried out.

"By the Gods! It's him, the Hero of Enjeer!"

"It's me! Mirio Togata, ready to thwart your evil plans, Demon Lord!"

"Ah, oh no, um, come at me!"

The two men began to fight, Mirio using a long sword and Tamaki his large bird claw and wing. The two fought dramatically, taking large swings and exaggerated leaps. Bakugou scoffed and commented under his breath, and you knew he was picking apart the fight. After a few jabs and insults, Tamaki was defeated, being pulled off stage by an unseen stagehand, the villain speaking uncomfortably loud once more.

"Damn, you bested me once more, but I'll be back, Hero! I'll be back, um, next week, so, come to the show!"

The crowd was insane; everyone was on their feet, cheering and applauding the performers as the cage suspended above was opened, Hado beautifully floating down into Mirios arms. You searched for the strings and wires as you clapped, squinting and not seeing anything connected to the princess. Strange. The crowd either headed for the stage to meet the performers or headed out of the building, and Bakugou began to head towards the latter. You followed behind, your hands still interlocked as you turned to see Shinsou and Aizawa heading near the stage with Eri. You waved goodbye, Aizawa nodding as Shinsou was distracted with keeping Eri under control.

Outside was just as chaotic as inside, the amount of people entering and exiting the building you had left was beginning to overwhelm both you and Bakugou. The prince looked around, nodding to you and tugging you in a new direction, forcing you to follow behind. He led you through the waves of people, eventually pulling you into a closed off and empty alley. You continued down the road and down another alley, continuing until even the sounds of the festival was out of earshot. Once he knew no one was around, Bakugou moved you against the side of the alley building, the stone cold and damp against your bare shoulders. You shivered and went to speak up, but Bakugou ignored you, resting his head on your shoulder and sighing tiredly. You stopped yourself from complaining, smiling tiredly as you hugged Bakugou back, praising and petting him, the messy blonde hair still a little damp from the escape earlier that day.

"Too many people, I get it. You did wonderfully today though, my prince."

"tӉЄЅЄ ҏЄөҏℓЄ ДЯЄ tөө ӍҴҪӉ. Дℓℓ Ї ҋЄЄԀ ЯЇԌӉt ҋөѠ ЇЅ ҰөҴ, Sunset."

You purred at the nickname you and come to cherish, pecking Bakugou on the lips before delving into a real kiss. Your hands stayed in Bakugous hair as his arms moved to your back, hugging you closer as you embraced each other. When you pulled away to catch your breath, he kissed down your jaw and along your neck, whispering his usual sweet nothings against your skin. You shivered and called out his name, lightly hitting him on the back as one of his hands began to lift up your dress skirt.

"Not right now, Katsuki-"

"ЈҴЅt Д ℓЇttℓЄ ЇЅ ҒЇҋЄ, Їt ҪДҋ БЄ ѻҴЇҪҜ-"

"N-No, ҋө, ҋөt өҜДҰ!"

You growled and fought back against the prince playfully, trying to push him off of you as the sound of footsteps made you both freeze. Bakugou stopped his advancements but kept his body close to yours, pressing you closer against the wall. You both listened intensely as the footsteps multiplied, hearing the voice of the man you deeply wanted to avoid.

Hawks.

"Someone said they were seen heading this way, check every corner."

"Shit, come on."

You grabbed Bakugous hand and began to quietly sneak away from the impending footsteps, climbing up a stack of barrels and crates left along a nearby shop. Pulling Bakugou up with you, you slipped out of your small heels and carried them at your side, beginning to trek the rooftops and making sure to keep Bakugou close as well as keep your footsteps lighter than usual. You ducked behind chimneys and waited for the prince to give the go ahead before running through the night air. Hawks could fly, but he wouldn't around the city...right? The people of Enjeer don't accept people that are different...right? You continued along the rooftops, both of you helping each other across the larger gaps between buildings. Planks of wood and crates had been set up as a sort of path along the rooftops, making your trek easier than expected. Did someone make these paths on purpose? Was it Shinsou and Aizawa? You pointed towards the castle in the distance, shaking your head when Bakugou groaned about having to go back already.

"It's been long enough, we have to."

"Їt'Ѕ өҋℓҰ БЄЄҋ өҋЄ ԀДҰ, Ї ѠДҋt ӍөЯЄ tЇӍЄ."

You took Bakugous hand, smiling weakly as he huffed and gave in, letting you pull him closer and kissing him on the cheek. You pointed in the right direction again, and you were off, following the rooftops towards the castle you had escaped from.

"We just have to get to the end and then find a new way inside. I doubt the front gate is left unattended."

"Ї'Ӎ ҋөt ЅҴЯЄ ѠӉДt ҰөҴЯ ҏℓДҋ ЇЅ, ЈҴЅt ℓЄДԀ tӉЄ ѠДҰ."

You reached the end of rooftops you could move on, crouching and climbing down the side of the old building, Bakugou jumping down with ease as you took a more safe route. You ducked around the corner and glanced in both directions, motioning to Bakugou that it was safe to move again, and you both stumbled into the open street.

"Okay, I think we're in the clear now. The castle is just up ahead along this road."

"ӉДӉ?"

"Um...ӉөӍЄ, tӉЄЯЄ."

You pointed to the East, smiling weakly as Bakugou rolled his eyes and started walking, chuckling as you jogged to catch up. Once you did, you grabbed his hand and asked him to stop, pulling on his arm to wait for you as you threw your heels back on. He mumbled something about that not being important, and you growled back that you didn't enjoy walking around barefoot, unlike him.

"ДЯЄ ҰөҴ ЇҋЅҴℓtЇҋԌ ӍЄ ЯЇԌӉt ҋөѠ?"

"Am I what? Am I mocking you? I might be."

"You know-"

You jumped, quickly turning around to see the man with wings standing boredly behind you and Bakugou, who immediately put one arm against you and another up in front of him.

"-I always thought it was strange that you two converse like you can understand each other."

You only scowled, your eye twitching as Hawks glared back with tired eyes, glowing behind the visor. Unsure of what you could say that wouldn't piss him off more, you stayed quiet, watching as Hawks slowly sauntered around you two, holding a large feather in his hand like a sword.

"I'm really disappointed in you two, making such a scene before such an important event."

"No one recognized us."

Hawks stopped in place, blinking in astonishment before whistling loudly, the sound of multiple footsteps coming from all directions. As the sound grew closer, you watched as the entire street and surrounding alleyways filled with soldiers. You felt Bakugou reaching for your hand, and you found his, squeezing it twice to assure the Prince. Hawks inhaled slowly, shouting to the crowd of soldiers around him.

"They've been found, I'll return the two to the Castle! Everyone else, disperse, search the entire Second District! Report to me only if necessary!"

"Yes Sir!"

After a quick bow, the soldiers dispersed, leaving you and Bakugou alone once again with Hawks. The man with wings continued to glare at you as he nodded towards the Castle, sheathing the large feather into its sheath.

"Let's go. Now."

You glared back at him for only a moment, storming off in the appointed direction and dragging Bakugou along behind. He hesitated and stammered over his words as you gripped his wrist, showing off an agitated strength he hadn't seen before from you. Bakugou smiled to himself, immediately losing the smirk as Hawks spoke directly to him from his right side.

"Ԁөҋ't ԌЄt tөө ЄӝҪЇtЄԀ. ҰөҴ Ѡөҋ't БЄ ЅӍЇℓЇҋԌ ѠӉЄҋ ҰөҴ'ЯЄ Їҋ tӉЄ ҏЯЄЅЄҋҪЄ өҒ tӉЄ ҜЇҋԌ. ℓЄt'Ѕ ЅЄЄ ӉөѠ ℓөҋԌ ЅӉЄ ℓДЅtЅ tӉЯөҴԌӉ өҋЄ өҒ ӉЇЅ ҏҴҋЇЅӉӍЄҋtЅ."

Bakugou growled back, his voice low to make sure you weren't trying to listen and interpret what they were saying.

"ЅӉЄ'Ѕ ЅtЯөҋԌЄЯ tӉДҋ ҰөҴ ԌЇѴЄ ӉЄЯ ҪЯЄԀЇt ҒөЯ. ҋөt ЅtЯөҋԌЄЯ tӉДҋ ӍЄ, БҴt ЅtЯөҋԌЄЯ tӉДҋ ҰөҴЯ ҏЯЄҪЇөҴЅ ЯөҰДℓ ҒДӍЇℓҰ."

"Ї'Ԁ БЇtЄ ӍҰ tөҋԌҴЄ Їҋ tӉЄЇЯ ӉДℓℓЅ ЇҒ Ї ѠЄЯЄ ҰөҴ tӉЄҋ."

"tҪӉ...ҰөҴ'ЯЄ Дℓℓ tӉЄ ЅДӍЄ. ҋөtӉЇҋԌ БҴt БℓөөԀ ДҋԀ Д ҋДӍЄ ДҋԀ ҰөҴ tӉЇҋҜ ҰөҴ'ЯЄ БЄttЄЯ tӉДҋ ЄѴЄЯҰөҋЄ ЄℓЅЄ..."

Bakugou clicked his tongue and turned his head away, widening his steps to match your speed and walk alongside you instead of behind. Hawks picked up the pace as well, humming to Bakugous words in thought. Not a puppeteered Prince after all. You continued the walk in silence, ignoring the concerned gasps of the Castle Guards up ahead. You crossed the large bridge that led to the Castle gate, moving through the courtyard and up the stairs of the massive castle.

Hawks whistled again, the doors immediately opening and allowing the three of you inside. You entered the cold stone building and finally let go of Bakugous wrist, whispering an apology for holding onto him for so long. He shook his head and leaned closer, whispering that it was fine as long as he let you hold you even closer later after your scolding from the King. Hawks pretended to ignore the conversation, not wanting to remind the both of you of his excellent hearing and making the situation even worse.

"(F/N), Bakugou!"

"Iida?"

You squinted to see Iida running towards you, stopping a few feet ahead and quickly bowing.

"I've been waiting for your arrival, Hawks, I'm glad you found these two. My sincerest apologies for their-"

"You're fine, Iida. Escort them with me to the King's Hall."

"Yes Sir."

Iida swiftly moved to Hawks side and walked with the three of you down the hall, the sound of footsteps echoing through the silence. He didn't speak even when you turned and glanced back at him, his eyes immediately telling you to turn back around. Bakugou glanced back when he saw how quickly you turned, sticking out his tongue and mocking Iida like a child. Iidas eye twitched, ignoring the taunt as two more guards opened the door into the King's Hall.

"Inside. Go."

Hawks was even harsher than before, shoving Bakugou as you were quick at his side again, making your way down the familiar path. How long had it been since you were being forced down this hall? Inside the hall was dark, the only light being a few torches along the pillars and the moonlight of the large windows taking up the walls. Ahead of you sat King Endeavor, tired and in his still poorly adjusted clothes, his eyes closed as if he was resting until your arrival. You continued forward until you reached the stairs leading to his throne, stopping in place as Hawks put a hand on each of your shoulders, forcing you both down to your knees.

"Your Majesty."

"Finally..."

King Endeavor slowly opened his eyes, the blue hue faded and cold, nothing like how you had imagined an angry King. He stared down at you and Bakugou, bringing his hand up to gesture to you.

"You jumped off the balcony of my son's room and visited multiple stalls and shops in the business district, during the busiest time of day?"

"...Yes."

"What is your reason?"

"We- I, wanted to see the town."

"Could you not have asked?"

"I'm...sorry?"

The King brought his hand to his face, rubbing his eyes in exhaustion.

"If you want to go outside, you can visit the gardens, or visit the business district with accompaniment of one of the Royal Guards. Jumping out of a balcony and getting injured or bothering the residents near the Castle is reckless."

"Y-Yes, you're right."

King Endeavor sighed and waved you away, leaving you in a state of shock. Was...that it? You glanced back at Hawks, the man with wings even more shocked than you were. He immediately stepped around you, clasping his hands together and gesturing to you and Bakugou.

"With all due respect, your majesty, these two deliberately caused a scene, was made notice by Jeanist and Aizawa, and now we're scouring the streets for the-"

"Hawks."

King Endeavor put his hand up, shaking his head and sighing again.

"Are either of them hurt?"

"No, your majesty."

You didn't even check! You huffed and crossed your arms, appalled by the way Hawks was fighting for your downfall at the hands of the King, yet stunned that Hawks was so quick to speak out against him.

"If they aren't hurt, then there was no real conflict. Send them to their rooms. One day of confinement is punishment enough."

"Your majesty-"

"I said that's punishment enough."

Hawks' smile weakened and he bowed, acknowledging the King's words and gesturing for you to turn around and leave the hall. The King stood and moved down the steps, stopping as he was right in front of you, towering over you and Bakugou. He stared down at you, the intimidation dissipating as he spoke.

"Did you have fun in town?"

"I...yes, we did."

"That's good. Shoto hasn't seen the carnival in years.."

The King stepped around you, making his way down the hall as you, Bakugou, and Hawks followed quickly behind, Hawks now in front of you to keep distance between you and the King. King Endeavor opened the door, allowing you and Bakugou alongside him as Hawks fell back in defeat.

"After the ball, we will plan an evening for the carnival. We will set up a schedule for you and the Prince to safely visit the business district when the time sees fit."

You stared in disbelief as the King made his way down the hall and around the corner, waving the three of you away.

"Hawks, to their room."

"...Yes Sir..."

Once the footsteps of the King faded away, you snorted loudly, scoffing at the man with wings as he glared at you from across the hall.

"Our punishment was well received, and now...hah, to our room, right?"

You waited for Hawks to start walking, smirking as he smiled back passive aggressively, showing you the way back to your room in the moonlit halls.

Things are starting to go smoothly for once.