Kirideku
Onesided!Bakudeku
Omegaverse!Fantasy! AU
Because I know nothing else.
LOTS of smut.
Like, an ungodly amount.
Just- smut.
Smut here
Smut there
It is all over this one
This is porn with plot as a side
No plot even
(Little bit of a plot because I'll definitely get lost in the plot. Rarely do I ever lose myself in the porn, you guys knows this)
Also angsty.
It'll be angsty

The halls of the Crimson palace were dark, moon and stars blanketed by thick clouds, candles flickering in the breeze.

Only the sound of hurried footsteps and stiffled giggles could be heard late in the night. The Queen, curly haired greenette with stunning viridian eyes and freckles like stars smattering his sun-kissed skin, lead the red-headed Knight through the hall.

Eijirou chuffed, twisting on his heel and yanking the Omega with him. Squeaking, Izuku allowed himself to be pulled along, both sneaking away into the veil of the darkest hallway.

Izuku gasped and grinned as he was pinned to the wall, hands coming up to Eijirou's neck. He was kissed fiercely, passionately, and God he missed this. His entire body thrummed in excitement, heart hammering in his chest.

Their kiss became rough and sloppy, Eijirou hunching and reaching down to fumble with Izuku's clothing.

The Queen whimpered as he broke the kiss to help, unclasping his cape from his hips, letting it pool at his feet as he went straight to helping Eijirou rip away his trousers. Once bare and accessible, Izuku was hoisted up and kissed breathless once more. He wrapped his legs around the Knight, moans muffled.

Eijirou ducked his head down to Izuku's neck, kissing, licking, nipping, but oh-so careful not to leave a single mark. Fingers tangled and tugged in his hair, their hips grinding and bucking in desperation.

"Please- please-" The Queen gasped, pulling on his lover's leather vest, top few buttons popping out of place.

The Alpha growled lowly, holding Izuku up with one hand as his other yanked his shirt out of his trousers, undoing his belt and pulling his aching cock out. God, he was already leaking. Both of them were.

Izuku bit his lip hard to suppress his sounds, eyes pinched shut and brows furrowed as they finally connected. Yes, maybe he should have been prepared a little more, but they are in a hurry.

Eijirou stole Izuku's lips, fingers digging into his plump ass as he thrust into his Queen. Izuku whimpered into him, nails scratching at the Alpha's scalp.

"Y-yes- oh Gods, my Alpha-" Izuku was breathless, words broken by sloppy kisses and harsh, quick thrusts. Tears streaked his cheeks from the intense pleasure quickly building and burning in his core, legs tensing and trembling.

The redhead hushed him with a deeper, searing kiss, pressing him harsher against the wall as he braced. Izuku cried into him, walls fluttering and clenching around his cock.

He's never gotten him so close so fast before. Massive ego boost.

Izuku's entire body tremored and tensed, throwing his head back against the wall with orgasm. Eijirou slapped his hand over Izuku's agape mouth, muffling his pleasured sounds. Eijirou bit his lip, grunts deep in his throat as he chased release.

His knot locked easily into place, Izuku gasping beneath his hand as he pumped his Queen full of fresh seed. Eijirou lifted his head, panting heavily.

He crooned, pleased at the bliss across Izuku's face.

"My Alpha," Izuku sighed, draping his arms lazily over Eijirou's shoulders. "I've missed you... A month away is far too long..."

Eijirou smiled, bumping their noses together. "I apologize, your majesty. I'll be sure the hasten the next raid."

Izuku purred in delight, fingers toying with the Knight's hair. "You will be rewarded handsomely if you could."

The Knight chuckled deeply, inhaling his lover's wonderful scent. "All the reward I need is your stunning smile, my Queen."

While he did miss how words like that used to get the Queen flustered and embarrassed, denying his own beauty, he still accepted the kisses and purrs of appreciation and adoration he received. His Queen loved him, and that truly was all Eijirou needed.

~

"My Lord," Izuku curtsied in greeting as Katsuki sauntered into the dining hall. They both sat, Katsuki at the head of the table and Izuku to his right. Traditionally, Kings and Queens sat at opposing sides of the table. However, the King had insisted on them being closer. "I hear your travels were well. Oh, I didn't know you were injured."

The King huffed, but didn't shy away as his Queen's delicate fingers brushed at the slim scab above his brow. "S'fine. Won't even scar." He took Izuku's hand and placed a fleeting kiss to his knuckles. "Home affairs were well while I was gone, I assume?"

Izuku smiled and nodded, sitting up straighter as his plate was placed before him. "Oh, yes. Quite well." Izuku glanced to the corner of the room behind Katsuki. His smile widened as Eijirou's vermilion gaze met his. "But I'm happy you are home."

Katsuki hummed as he ate.

The Queen turned to his food and ate, stifling a purr as he could feel the ghost of Eijirou's hands on him from the night before.

~

The stables were not their typical hiding spot, but Izuku couldn't let his Knight slip away so quickly.

Eijirou locked the tackroom and had his Queen hoisted up on the counter.

Izuku held Eijirou's head to his chest, blouse slipping from his shoulders. Eijirou held his thighs, kneading the plush flesh as his hips rolled languidly. A much different pace than the one from Eijirou's return to the palace a few days previous. Izuku delighted when Eijirou made love to him, murmuring praises and words of adoration into his skin, holding their bodies close together.

"Eiji... oh, my love..." His head tilted back, open-mouthed kisses pressing tenderly up his throat and to his jaw. "Feels wonderful..."

Eijirou chuckled, his nose brushing against Izuku's cheek as he raised his Queen's head. "You should always feel wonderful, my Queen..."

The greenette chittered, pulling his lover into a kiss. "My name, Eiji... please..."

With a hum and a smile, he leaned more forward, bracing an arm against the counter and lifting Izuku's thigh more. A sharp, deep thrust had nails digging into his back, a loud moan ripping from his Queen. "Izuku," he purred into his lover's neck, thrusts hard and deliberate.

Izuku gasped, back arched. He held Eijirou tighter, tears stinging his eyes. "E-Eiji-!" He stuttered, clenching tight around his lover.

Eijirou knew him inside and out. Knew each little trick and what he liked to hear. Eijirou filled him so perfectly, was just the right amount of rough and so wonderfully gentle.

He had Izuku orgasming with just a few more thrusts, reaching deep inside without hurting him. Izuku trilled as Eijirou's knot locked in place, hand covering his abdomen as he panted. He could feel his lover's cum smattering across his insides, sticky and warm and in reality, rather gross. But he didn't care so much about the gross as he pulled Eijirou into a sweet kiss, tangling his fingers in red hair and pressing close to the Knight.

~

Izuku never imagined falling in love with a Knight or Guard. He'd always hoped that he would fall in love with the Alpha he'd marry. And he had.

He and Katsuki knew each other as children and while the Alpha had always been quite rough, Izuku still admired and adored him. Izuku still does.

When it was announced that he and Katsuki would be wed and Izuku would be living in the Crimson palace with his new mate, Izuku was enthralled. He loved Katsuki and couldn't have imagined a better mate. Katsuki is wonderful. Sure, his words are harsh and attitude brash, but his actions are gentle and sweet.

Izuku was happy and excited to be Queen alongside his King.

He met Eijirou a few years before he and Katsuki were married. He'd always just been a Knight in training until he became Katsuki's right-hand man when he became King. Eijirou was also head of the Guard. Izuku never really gave Eijirou much thought, but appreciated him for being the King's greatest friend.

Izuku did notice he held an attraction for the Knight, but attempted to brush it off. He'd spend time with the Knight, finding him funny, sweet, and endearing. Izuku loved how despite how rough the Knight appeared, he was gentle and kind. His smile was bright as the sun, joy contagious.

The Queen realized quickly that the more time he spent with the Knight, the more he fell. He was mortified by his own feelings betraying him. He is supposed to love his Mate. His King. Katsuki, the Alpha he grew up with and married. Not his most trusted Knight.

Izuku fell completely, however, during an ambush on a journey back home from a neighboring kingdom. He had run from the fight, being completely unarmed. Yes, he knew how to fight. He had been taught young, but these men wielded magic as well as swords. Izuku was no match and he knew when to retreat and when to help. Besides, his Mate is strong, capable. Katsuki will protect him, then will find him.

Yet, it was Eijirou that found him at nightfall, just as the Queen was panicking. Clothes shredded and wet, stained beyond repair. Dirt and tears stained his cheeks, cuts from thorns and branches littered his hands and cheeks and he was scared.

Eijirou wrapped his own cloak around Izuku and started a fire to warm him up. He held Izuku tight, assuring him everything would be alright. They'd return to the King once Izuku had settled and warmed up.

Izuku couldn't deny his feelings after that incident. It was simple, innocent encounter, but it plagued Izuku's thoughts and dreams. Eijirou's warmth and his sweet words. His calloused hands cradling Izuku close. He couldn't get the Knight out of his head.

Things were not helped when he overheard Eijirou confessing to a fellow Knight, Denki Kaminari.

"I don't know what is wrong with me. I can't stop thinking about him, Denki. I want to hold him and talk to him. I want to kiss him, tell him I love him, but he is the Queen..."

Izuku's heart skipped and pounded in his chest, rattling his ribcage with incredible force. His stomach dropped with the remembrance that he is married, mated, and above Eijirou's status. His love could get Eijirou killed.

The following day, he approached Eijirou in the stables, the Knight tacking up his horse.

"I heard you, yesterday. "

Eijirou stiffened at the statement. His wide eyes met Izuku's before dropped to his knee and bowed deeply, fist on the ground, knuckles white. "Your majesty! I apologize for what you heard, I mean no harm, I swear-"

"My Knight..." Izuku knelt before Eijirou and cupped his face, gently tilting his head up for their eyes to meet once more. "I... I feel so strongly for you, I fear myself... I was thrilled to hear you feel the same, but we cannot..." Tears stung his eyes as his voice trailed.

Red eyes saddened, Eijirou carefully taking Izuku's hand. He placed a tender kiss to Izuku's knuckles, closing his eyes and allowing his lips to linger. "I am sworn to protect you and the King with my life. Although I cannot love you in the way I wish, I will stay by your side, my Queen. Whatever you need, I will invest all my power to make it happen."

"And never can we speak of our feelings, my lovely Knight..."

Eijirou smiled and stood, helping Izuku to his feet. "Never to be acted upon. I understand, your majesty. I should return you to the palace."

Izuku smiled, looping his arm through Eijirou's offered one. They walked together, quiet until they parted, Katsuki greeting his Queen and taking his hands from the Knight.

After that were so many stolen glances, subtle touches that sent shivers down Izuku's spine. He noticed every little thing now. He got excited - too excited - during a late-night ball when a young Alphan Prince got a little too brave and risked a touch, only for Eijirou to snatch his arm in a bone-crushing grasp, growl deep like thunder. His touch as he lead Izuku away was like lightening shocking him to his core. Izuku missed his touch the moment it was gone.

He imagined Eijirou that night. Dreamt of the Knight loving him so intimately until morning. Izuku could never get the Knight off his mind, no matter how hard he tried. It all came to a head at another attack that separated him from Katsuki. Eijirou was with him this time.

They found solace in a cave, just after rain began to fall. Hearts racing, adrenaline pumping through their veins, it was out of pure instinct they clashed together. Teeth on lips, fingers tearing into clothes, skin on skin until they were connected so completely. Izuku lain back on their clothes, moaning and gasping beneath Eijirou, clinging to him like a lifeline. It was sloppy, rushed, and rough, practically animalistic with the way Eijirou hunched over him possessively, growling into his neck.

Once knotted together, ragged breathing dying down with the rainstorm so terrible they could barely see the trees beyond the cave opening, their eyes met.

"I want this," Izuku confessed, tears in his eyes as he cupped Eijirou's face. "I can't live another day pretending I don't."

Eijirou sighed softly, leaning into the Queen's palms. "Your majesty..."

"Please don't say no..." Izuku didn't care if he had to beg, he needed Eijirou. Tears fell from his eyes fervently at the fear of the Knight rejecting him.

Instead, the redhead leaned down to place a chaste kiss to Izuku's trembling lips. "I'd love nothing more than to have this with you, my Queen..."

~

"Izuku?"

Izuku snapped his head up with a hum in question.

Katsuki had his brow raised as he leaned back in his leather-bound chair. He let the parchment he held drift onto his desk. "What is on your mind? You seem to be incredibly distracted as of late."

"Oh." Izuku smiled and returned focus to his book. "I'm just thinking about the plans for the upcoming ball." A low groan from his mate was the response he always got for this sort of thing. It is common knowledge that the Crimson King is not overly fond of social gatherings. He makes an appearance, greets the guests, then leaves to allow Izuku to host. "The invitations were sent out yesterday morning."

"Remind me why we are hosting this ball?"

"You mean our annual Summer Solstice ball?" Izuku quirked a smirk and closed his book after placing a bookmark. "The one where we display our strength and power? It is almost like you haven't attended a single one since you were born, my King."

Katsuki rolled his eyes with a scoff. He looked over to his Queen as Izuku stood and returned the book to its slot. "When is your next heat?" His voice was surprisingly soft as he asked.

Izuku turned to face Katsuki, taken aback by the suddeness of the question. "Are you wanting to spend it with me..?" Katsuki hasn't spent the last several heats with him. In fact, they haven't been intimate in a very long time, due to the demanding nature of Katsuki's responsibilities and his need to be on the front lines with his people rather than pawn them from his throne. Izuku has only had Eijirou's love since their affair began five months previous.

"Yes. We haven't had much time together in a while." Katsuki stood and approached Izuku, taking his hand and kissing his knuckles. "And I do believe it is time to start at least considering heirs."

Izuku blinked slowly up at Katsuki, then forced a smile and touched his mate's cheek. "I do believe my heat is quickly approaching. I'm expecting it to be here by the next full moon."

Humming, Katsuki placed a hand on Izuku's waist. "Little more than a week. Is that after the ball?"

"Before, actually. The ball will be the following week."

Katsuki nodded and leaned in, leaving a chaste kiss to Izuku's lips. "I'll be sure my schedule is clear."

~

Izuku's teeth worried at his lip as he fussed with his nightgown in front of the mirror. He knew eventually he'd have to try for an heir with Katsuki, but-

A thump and grunt out on Izuku's balcony startled him out of his stupor. He shuffled to the doors and huffed as he opened them. "Eijirou! Did you climb!?"

The redhead laughed, offering the Queen a simple bouquet of yellow flowers. "I was hoping to be quite romantic, your majesty."

Izuku pouted, taking the bouquet and lifting the petals to his nose. He smiled and stepped closer to his Knight. "You are very romantic, my love."

Eijirou smiled, hands falling to Izuku's waist to pull him close. "I'm glad you think so. I was a little concerned I may look like a fool, climbing to your terrace."

Laughing, Izuku leaned back against the stone railing, pulling Eijirou with him. "You may have, and the effort was likely a little more than necessary."

The Knight chuckled, leaning in and gently tilting Izuku's chin up. Their lips met softly, bodies pressing together in search of the other's warmth.

"Out here?" Eijirou murmured against Izuku's skin as his lips trailed down his shapely jaw.

Izuku bit his lip and tilted his head back, fingers tangling in red hair and legs hooking on Eijirou's hips after lifting himself onto the railing. "Yes, please..."

This is far more public than their usual and this way they are far more likely to be caught. Yet, Eijirou didn't seem to mind that as he hiked up the gown, growling as he found his Queen to be completely nude underneath. His fingers rubbed between Izuku's slickened folds, Izuku shuddering and arching at the touch.

Two fingers sunk inside him, eager to please with deep strokes and slow thrusts. Izuku's mouth fell agape in silent gasps and moans, Eijirou's lips on his neck. Those rough fingers felt heavenly, massaging his sensitive walls so sensually.

Izuku lifted Eijirou's head, meeting his gaze. "I love you..."

The Knight smiled, bumping their noses together and removing his fingers. "I love you as well, Izuku."

As their mouths met again, Izuku gripped Eijirou's shoulders tighter, cock stretching his accepting walls. He gasped with each shallow thrust, ankles locking behind the Knight. He whimpered, dropping his head back as Eijirou picked up pace. Izuku reached out, grasping the stone wall as a brace, fingers curling at the nape of Eijirou's neck.

"Eiji... Eiji," the Omega moaned breathlessly, eyes fluttering closed. "My love..."

Eijirou gripped the railing and Izuku's waist, growling into Izuku's shoulder. He could absolutely lose himself in Izuku. His scent, his voice, he could lose himself in it all. How he wished he could show the world his love for his Queen. Scream it from the roof.

Sometime in the night, the two ended up tangled in Izuku's sheets, knot long deflated as they just basked in each other's presence.

Izuku rolled on top of Eijirou, one arm to prop himself on Eijirou's chest. He reached up to stroke back Eijirou's hair. "I love you, Eiji."

The Knight smiled fondly, taking Izuku's hand. "I am so madly in love with you, Izuku. I cannot imagine my life with another. I don't even want to." He pressed a lingering kiss to each of Izuku's fingers, the Omega purring at the praise.

"Eiji... I want to live in the mountains."

Blinking slowly, Eijirou looked back up to the Queen. "The mountains?"

Izuku nodded in confirmation, leaning down to trail kisses up his lover's chest. "I want a quaint little house... fireplace and all, by the mountains down south. Maybe we could find somewhere beside a stream. Maybe in the forest. Somewhere secluded, yet we could easily access a nearby village." His eyes glimmered as he finished his trail of kisses on Eijirou's lips. "Then we could just be us. No titles. No hiding. We could have a family."

Eijirou smiled and hummed at the thought, reaching up to tuck a lock of curly hair behind Izuku's ear. "That sounds absolutely wonderful... why the sudden thought?"

A frown pulled down Izuku's lips and he slid off Eijirou. He sighed lowly, curling into his lover's side. "Katsuki is asking about my heat. He wants to spend it with me. Wants to start trying for an heir. I cannot blame him, we have been married for three years. I am sure the people are wondering about an heir as well."

"Oh..." Eijirou licked his lips and looked to the ceiling. "Your heat is soon..."

"Yes."

Eijirou bit into his lower lip, brows pinching together.

"I feel so guilty," Izuku admitted and sat up, holding the sheets up to cover himself. Now he has a sense of modesty. Tears glistened in his eyes as he looked to Eijirou. The Knight sat with him, running his knuckles tenderly up and down Izuku's spine. "I feel horrible, going behind his back like this. I just... I love you too much to give you up."

The redhead pulled his lover close and kissed his head of curls. "My love, we will figure this out... I promise. We will have our little house by the mountains if that is what you truly want."

Izuku nodded, curling up tightly and clinging to Eijirou. He's almost terrified to let go. He has such a terrible feeling growing deep in his stomach.

~

Izuku held his cloak hood up, the rain beating down hard. This is an incredibly unusual storm for being so near the Summer Solstice. And to make matters worse, Izuku can feel his heat festering. It's starting early. No warning, either to let him chose to stay in the palace instead of venture to the outlying villages with Katsuki.

God, where is he, anyway?

The Queen trudged through the muddy cobblestones, stomach twisting uneasily.

A lick of blue flames from an alley ahead caused Izuku to stop dead in his tracks. If those flames are what he thinks they are, he's in grave danger.

As he stepped back, a familiar face stepped out of the alley, whistling and snapping his fingers, blue sparks flying with each snap. Izuku's jaw tensed as he glanced around. Of course. The cliché where he is utterly alone with the bad guy.

Hopefully this is also the cliché where his lover swoops in and rescues him because Izuku certainly isn't rescuing himself weaponless and magicless against a man with fire capabilities.

"Ah, your royal Highness." Dabi bowed deeply, exaggeratedly. He grinned as he lifted his head. "How lovely to cross your path again."

"I am going to assume this storm is the doing of someone in your party," Izuku called out, rolling his shoulders back and raising his chin.

Dabi clicked his tongue, standing straight and shoving his hands in his pockets. "You are clever, my Queen. Although, I do have to ask why you are wandering alone in this dreadful weather."

Good question. He had helped a lost child find her way home, but why entertain the villain with further conversation? Izuku huffed the most annoyed sound he could muster and turned away. Shit, that was a bad idea.

Footsteps rushed him from behind. Izuku swiveled to the side, watching Dabi slip and stumble, barely catching himself before falling to his knees.

Izuku didn't allow the villain time to recover before he was running off. He slipped on the occasional stone, turning a few times to shake Dabi's trail.

An explosion followed by screaming and fire caught Izuku's attention. Katsuki!

Izuku pushed himself faster. The shouting of fighting and the clanging of swords grew louder with the rain. Whoever was causing this storm was somewhere in the fighting.

"Katsuki!" He cried, dodging an attack and running in deeper. "Katsuki!"

Blood rushed in Izuku's ears, tears brimming his eyes, panic making his heart pound faster. "Eijirou!?"

"Izuku- damnit!"

The Queen yelped as he was yanked into a familiar chest. Two swords clashed in front of him, chest heaving for breath as he clutched the arm holding him. His mate's pheromones, both comforting and threatening, burned his nose.

"Why would you run into this shit!?"

"I needed to find you-" he squealed as they twisted, Katsuki parrying another attack. "Kacchan!"

Katsuki snarled at the attackers. "We need to get you safe! Can't ever get a fucking rest from these tyrants!" Katsuki fought through, Izuku pulling the King's cloak over himself to block his own scent. He could feel his heat strengthening and he knew Katsuki could as well with the way he held his mate tight, shielding him further and enhancing his own scent. "Great fucking timing," he hissed out, tucking his shoulder in as he swerved around other soldiers.

"I-I'm so sorry," Izuku stuttered and whimpered, gripping Katsuki tighter, tears spilling from his eyes. Eijirou... where is Eijirou..? His eyes swept the fighting crowd, yet the Knight was no where to be seen. A cold fist clutched his stomach, lip trembling.

"I've got them, your Majesty!" Hanta slid in and parried an attack meant for the King. "Go, get the Queen to safety!"

Katsuki growled and nodded to his Knight, sweeping Izuku off his feet and dashing into the storm. Izuku clung tightly to Katsuki, looking over his shoulder, searching and praying, hoping for just a glimpse of bright red hair.

"Izuku, listen to me." Katsuki finally skidded to a halt, setting Izuku on his feet and then the Queen saw the horses. Katsuki turned away, grabbing a bridle and quickly pulling it onto his own horse's head. "You head to the palace as fast as you can. Don't slow down and don't look back, go as far as Ash can take you. You'll be away from harm soon enough."

Once his horse was bridled, he turned to his trembling mate and kissed his forehead, cupping his cheeks. "I will be right behind you, Izuku."

The Queen nodded with a sob, gasping as he was lifted effortlessly onto the stallions bare back. Good thing he knows how to ride. He grasped the reins in a death-grip, looking down to his mate once more.

Katsuki nodded and stepped back, grabbing his blade once again.

Izuku inhaled deeply and curled his fingers in Ash's mane and tightened his calves with a click of his tongue. Ash snorted and broke into a canter, ears flat and head ducked as they ran through the rain.

His eyes were squinted, rain hitting him like pelting ice. Though, the further away they got, the less the rain. Soon, they were out of the village, passed the storm and on their own. He knows the way back home. He's been to this village and back many times since becoming Queen.

However, his heat was getting stronger by the minute. His mind was becoming muddled, even Ash was being affected.

This isn't good. Great timing. Another cliché. Of course.

Izuku slowed Ash to a walk, panting heavily and looking to their surroundings. Middle of fucking nowhere.

No, wait. He knows where he is. Izuku clicked his tongue and turned Ash towards the trees. He ducked for the branches, clinging to Ash's mane as they galloped through. They crossed a wide stream, Ash unaffected by the splash as he ran through.

The Queen nearly cried in relief as he spotted his goal. He slowed Ash again and hopped off, stumbling and gasping. Ash nudged him, terribly concerned the poor thing.

Izuku lead him to the little paddock, fingers trembling and knees wobbly. He took off the bridle, patting Ash's neck before leaving the horse to his devices. Izuku latched the paddock, swaying as he made his way to the little cabin.

The key was still hidden under a loose stone. He easily unlocked the door and pushed inside. Izuku stumbled to the large bed in the back corner, crawling beneath the sheets.

He began to squirm and writhe, heat creeping into his very bones faster than ever now that he is in a safe, familiar place. He whimpered and clawed at his clothing, shedding each piece and fidgeting with the bedding.

This is great. Perfect timing. Well, unlikely he'll be spending heat with his mate, now. Is it good? Is that bad? He felt bad for thinking it was good.

Yet, he only craved Eijirou. He longed for the Knight's gentle touch and soft words. He wanted Eijirou to bite up his neck, covering Katsuki's claim. He wanted his bite on Eijirou's neck. How he desperately wanted that.

Izuku cried into the pillows, body tangled and twisted in the soft sheets.

He couldn't have what he craved and he knew that. He is the Queen. He's mated to Katsuki, a man he does truly care for. He should never have let the affair begin. The two people Katsuki trusts and loves more than anyone else are having an affair right beneath his nose.

This isn't fair to Katsuki.

Izuku gasped and sat up straight and rigid in the bed as he heard thunderous hoofbeats. Just one set, but enough to put Izuku on edge. His breath caught in his throat and he crawled out of the bed, holding one of the sheets tight around himself to peer out the window. The sun had fallen so the sky was only a rich blue-purple and fading orange. Though it was dark, Izuku would recognize the man dismounting anywhere. He rushed to the door, unlocking it with more tears welling in his eyes.

"Izuku!" Eijirou dropping the reins, only half-done tying them to the post, and ran to the porch. He jumped over the steps and swept Izuku into his tight embrace. "Oh, Gods... Izuku, I was so fucking worried..."

The Queen fell into him, sobbing into his chest and gripping his torn shirt tightly. He's bloody and sopping wet.

"Inside-" Izuku demanded and pulled back, dragging the Alpha in with him. He shut the door and quickly fussed over Eijirou, making him discard his vest and shirt, only returning to himself as he realized Eijirou now stood before him, bare chested, and scent smokey and earthy. Izuku swallowed the building siliva beneath his tongue as his trembling fingertips grazed the Knight's toned chest.

"Izuku..?" Eijirou's voice rang deep and rough, sending a thrill down Izuku's spine. The Knight's eyes then widened and he stepped back. "Izuku, your heat-!"

"Eiji..." Izuku was practically breathless as he followed the Alpha, wrapping his arms around Eijirou's neck and pulling him down for a deep kiss. Eijirou was quick to give in, hands on the Queen's waist.

With a coy smile, Izuku was leading the Knight to the bed, crooning in invitation. Eijirou answered with a low growl, Izuku shivering in his hold.

He kicked his boots aside, releasing Izuku only to undo his belt and discard his trousers. When Eijirou looked back up, Izuku was on the bed, presenting to him so perfectly. Ass in the air, chest to the bed, two fingers sunken in between his pretty, slick folds.

Eijirou licked his aching fangs, crawling on the bed behind Izuku. He nipped at the plump flesh of Izuku's ass, causing a gasp and a jolt. Hazy viridian eyes looked back at him, freckled cheeks tinged red.

Izuku is so far gone, so fast.

The Knight leaned over the greenette, pressing kisses to his back and nudging his legs more apart. Izuku curled his fingers into the sheets as his hand was removed from himself.

"I'll make you feel good, my Queen," Eijirou promised in a whisper, crooning at the soft moans caused by his intrusion. He sighed, fully sheathed inside his lover.

Izuku's eyes fluttered closed, lips parted and brows furrowed. He purred as Eijirou's calloused fingers entwined with his, shifting his hips.

Eijirou bit his lip, bracing himself on the mattress, gripping the sheets beside Izuku's bed as he thrust into the greenette, starting slow and shallow.

The Omega panted, legs trembling as the heat intensified each motion. Each deep stroke had sparks shocking throughout his body. "O-oh, Gods... Eiji... Alpha..." He feels Eijirou's cock slot so perfectly inside him, like they're just made to fit together. Especially as Eijirou leans over him more, chest-to-back. Izuku could feel Eijirou's warmth seeping into him.

He gripped Eijirou's hand, moaning and arching his back.

They can be as loud as they'd like now. They're alone. They can't be caught, and that was exciting.

As Eijirou's thrusts became hard and fast, bed rocking and creaking and he growled above Izuku. The Omega wailed in pleasure, drool on his lips and eyes rolling back. His walls clenched and fluttered, legs shaking until he screamed with release.

Eijirou snarled above him, fingers digging deeper into the mattress, hunched over the Omega as he set a brutal pace, fucking Izuku as his instincts screamed at him to satisfy the Omega's heat.

Izuku, so overstimulatwd and high in heat, shrieked with a second orgasm ripping through his body, scrambling for purchase on the bedding.

Knot popping into place, Eijirou quickly pulled a pillow between he and Izuku, biting hard into it. His eyes rolled, hips twitching as he pumped his release into the Omega.

Panting and writhing, Izuku's trembling hand cupped his lower abdomen, bulge only slight. He whimpered, Eijirou still rocking into him, each movement making his toes curl and eyes flutter, shocks shooting up his spine.

Eijirou finally came to enough to release the pillow, relaxing over the Omega. He pressed long, lazy kisses over his neck, back and shoulders, squeezing his hand.

Finally, Izuku could relax beneath lover, eyes fluttering shut with a sigh.

The Knight maneuvered them carefully to lay on their sides without disturbing their connection. He buried in nose in Izuku's hair and hummed contentedly.

~

Eijirou patted Ash's neck after scattering oats in the grass for the two horses. His horse grazed alongside Ash, the two steeds good friends.

The Knight exited the paddock, checking his tack he left on the fence before walking back to the cabin. He plopped down in the chair he had pulled out of the cabin the other day and adjusted his shirt, sighing lowly.

After two days, Izuku's heat was over. Eijirou wanted to let the Queen to rest more, but they really should be returning to the palace. The King is surely fearing for his Queen's safety.

Damn, the King... Eijirou glanced through the window to the slumbering Queen, tangled in the sheets.

He'd just made love to the Queen all over that cabin. Their combined scents permeated each corner. He had a hard enough time looking at the King, and now that he's spent heat with the King's mate? Eijirou's not sure he can live this one down. How could he ever look Katsuki in the eye again?

How could they keep this secret from Katsuki?

Goddamnit.

Eijirou got up and went into the Cabin. He grabbed a few of the candles he could find and lit them on each surface. He needed to cover their scents, even if they were about to leave. Who know when the King will want to return to this cabin.

Eijirou shut the door quietly behind him with a sigh. This will be the death of him.

Falling for the Queen..? And having an affair? God, he's an idiot. This could get them killed.

He sunk back into the chair, rubbing his face before dropping his head back.

This is insane. Absolutely crazy.

They have to end this. It cannot continue.

It'll break his heart to tell Izuku that, though. Gods, and right after spending heat with him.

This has to end, though.

Eijirou jolted and blinked, straining as he lifted his head.

"Eijirou!" Katsuki swung off his mount and jogged up to the cabin, eyes wide and worried. The Knight jumped to his feet, heart lurching into his throat.

Great fucking timing.

"Izuku-"

"He's inside." Eijirou swallowed hard. "His heat ended last night. I was just about to wake him to return to the palace."

The relief that flooded Katsuki's entire being made Eijirou's guilt that much stronger.

Katsuki stepped onto the porch and patted Eijirou's shoulder. "Thank you."

His stomach twisted almost painfully. He couldn't find the strength to say anything as the King entered the cabin.

Eijirou looked to the two Knight's accompanying the King. Hanta and Denki.

Denki shot him a concerned and questioning look.

"Kacchan...?"

Izuku's sleepy voice rattled Eijirou and he turned back to look into the cabin.

Katsuki sat on the edge of the bed, gently carding his fingers through his mate's unruly hair. "Yeah, it's me. I'm sorry for not coming sooner." He took Izuku's hand and raised it to his lips.

The Queen hummed softly. "Are they gone..?"

"Yes, they're gone. Let's get you home."

Izuku nodded in agreement, closing his eyes as Katsuki leaned over, placing a tender kiss to his temple.

~

Katsuki noticed something was strange when he first entered the cabin, but was too relieved to see that his mate was okay to think too hard about it.

He had made it all the way to his palace the day after the attack, only to see neither his horse nor mate had made it back. He feared the worst, and was terrified someone was taking advantage of Izuku's quickly onset heat. He only thought of their cabin that next day and prayed his mate had made it safely there.

At first, Katsuki he been so relieved to see Eijirou sitting guard outside the Cabin. His mate had protection. Then he stepped inside. Why were there so many freshly lit candles, especially since Izuku was asleep? Why could he catch faint wiffs of Eijirou's scent in the cabin? He quickly brushed it off in favor of his mate, waking him gently.

There was no way his most trusted friend could have taken advantage of his heat-laden mate. And if he had, Izuku would have told him - or at least indicated he had been taken advantage of.

Right..?

Katsuki tried to force these intrusive thoughts aside and had managed to forget about them for the remainder of the day. His Queen is home unharmed. That's all that matters.

And yet, as he lay in bed that night, the thoughts crept back.

And he realized his Knight and Queen often were missing at similar times. That couldn't be a coincidence.

Katsuki tried to sleep, but he could only toss and turn, the thoughts growing worse.

How long had this been going on? How deeply rooted is this? What caused this? Was his lack of attention steering his Queen towards another Alpha who was with him more often? Or has this been happening his entire marriage? He's not sure what's worse and his stomach clenches.

~

Katsuki watched from the corner of his eye, Eijirou out in the courtyard, glancing from side to side. Katsuki excused himself from Tenya, his advisor, and walked away. He followed Eijirou at a distance, sure not to be seen.

Eijirou ducked into the stables.

Izuku was in there, tending to the horses. He'd left Katsuki only half an hour previous to do so.

Katsuki slunk along the side and peered in through the first open dutch-door of one of the stalls.

"Izuku..."

His Queen turned quickly and smiled. "Eiji," he chirped in greeting, delicate fingers trailing up from his Knight's chest, his shoulders, up his neck and into his hair. Both leaned into a soft kiss, Katsuki snapping back, pressed flat against the stone wall of the stables, eyes wide and heart racing.

Up until then, it was only speculation. It was all in his head, he hadn't thought he would actually be right.

His chest ached, head spinning with hurt and betrayal.

What is he supposed to do..?

~

"What?" Izuku turned quickly, eyes wide with parchment in hand. "Kacchan, the ball is in two nights! The guests will be arriving soon, and- and-"

"Hey, settle down." Katsuki took the crinkling parchment from Izuku's hands, setting it aside before it could be torn. He then grabbed his mate's shoulder and tilted his chin up for their gazes to lock. "I am sorry I will not be able to attend the ball this year. However, I cannot just let these tyrants continue to terrorize our land, can I?"

Izuku sighed, shoulders drooping. "No..." Izuku cupped Katsuki's jaw and placed a sweet kiss to his cheek. Katsuki knew Izuku still loved him. His love never went away, he's just been distracted by attention from another Alpha. "Please... please be safe... Return to me..."

Katsuki smiled, resting his forehead against his mate's. "I always do."

~

Eijirou wasn't given anytime to say goodbye to Izuku. Katsuki had whisked them away very quickly. All he had was a fleeting glance and a hidden wave.

The four of them rode swiftly, Katsuki and his most trusted Knights. Eijirou riding by his side, Hanta and Denki right behind them.

At their speed, they reached to base of the mountains at dusk. They set up camp and rested, leaving again at dawn. As they reached the mountain pass, they had to leave their mounts and travel on foot.

Halfway through the pass, Katsuki turned to face them. "We'll split up after the pass. Hanta and Denki, you two approach from the East, Eijirou and I will from the West. Well intercept them at the abandoned village and chase them out. Slay anyone unwilling to cooperate."

The three nodded, Eijirou glancing around to see if the others had the same sinking feeling he did.

The sun hung at it's highest peak when they finally exited the pass and bid farewell to the other two. Eijirou followed Katsuki, both with their hands resting on their blades.

Eijirou studied the King. He was tense, fingers flexing and shoulders rolling. He's not really sure what to make of it.

"I heard you and the Queen want to begin trying for an heir?"

The start of conversation seemed to startle the King as he looked back to Eijirou with wide eyes.

Katsuki inhaled deeply and nodded. "Yes. It has been some time and soon the people will begin to worry."

"So... you want to try for an heir for the people?"

The King sighed. "No. I want a pup because I love my mate. I want a family with him. It just so happens that our kingdom relies on us to have an heir." There's some of that normal, snippish attitude.

The two kept up a quiet conversation, easily slipping into their old teases and jokes as they trekked down the mountain and into the trees.

Approaching the river, Katsuki slowed. Eijirou jogged ahead, opening his flask. He crouched beside the water and dipped the flask in.

"You know, I feel like there's gotta be a more permanent solution for these guys. The 'League' or whatever they call themselves. They just keep coming back like rats-"

The sing of a blade unsheathing with the tip pressing into the back of his neck had Eijirou halting. He swallowed hard, glancing to their reflection in the water. Sure enough, it was still just the two of them.

Katsuki gestured upwards with his blade. "Stand up."

Eijirou did as told, raising his hands, only his flask in his grasp. He turned slowly, brows upturned as he met Katsuki's narrowed glare. "Katsuki-"

"You know you've lost the right to call me by name."

Oh, Gods. Eijirou licked his dry lips. "How did... how did you find out..?"

Katsuki's grip on the hilt tightened. "I grew suspicious at the cabin. I caught your scent inside, but I didn't want to believe it. I tried to ignore it, but then I saw you kissing my mate - your Queen - in the stables. I could no longer ignore what was right in front of me. My greatest friend, most trusted Knight, head of my Guard, was fucking my mate behind my back!" Katsuki hissed and raised his blade more, forcibly tilting Eijirou's chin up.

The redhead pinched his eyes shut, jaw tensing. "Your Majesty..."

"I would like to know why..."

Eijirou gulped, furious crimson eyes meeting guilty vermilion. "I... I love him. I've fallen in love with him."

Katsuki's glare didn't let up. "And I'll assume you'll say he loves you in return."

"I cannot speak for the Queen... only he can answer that."

Humming, Katsuki stepped back, lowering his blade.

Eijirou slowly lowered his hands. "There are no intruders camping in the village."

"No."

"Are you going to kill me?"

Katsuki's shoulders fell as well as the anger in his expression. "If I was, we'd be back at the palace and the gallows would be prepped. Despite it all, you were once my greatest friend. We fought side-by-side. I cannot kill you. Even if I had sentenced you to death, I would also have to hurt Izuku, by the laws."

Eijirou grit his teeth, looking away. "So... then what am I to do..? What is my punishment for betraying you..?"

The King sheathed his sword, just to pull his dagger from his boot and take two large strides to his Knight. Eijirou gasped and flinched, dagger hooking under his bandana, Katsuki grasping the fabric tightly. As he sliced, he knicked Eijirou's neck and caught some of the blood on the bandana before Eijirou covered the little wound.

"You are banished from my Kingdom, Eijirou Kirishima, and therefore are dead in the minds of our friends and family. Never return, or I will have your head."

Bloodied bandana in hand, Katsuki pivoted on his heel and sauntered back towards the trees. He halted and glanced over his shoulder. "Safe travels to you, old friend..."

With that, Eijirou watched him disappear into the trees. After what felt like an eternity, Eijirou gasped and stumbled back, tears burning his eyes.

That happened. It really happened. Everything taken from him in a single moment, with just a few words.

He's banished. Unable to return.

Izuku...

He can never see Izuku again. What will become of him? Will he believe when Katsuki says he's perished? Will any of their friends believe it..?

Yes... because what reason is there to dispute it? No one else knew of the affair. Maybe Denki. Denki suspected, but only knew for certain of Eijirou's feelings for the Queen.

Will Katsuki tell Izuku he learned of the affair..? No, that's unlikely.

Hands finding their way into his hair, Eijirou sobbed and fell to his knees.

This is worse than death.

~

Izuku bid farewell to the last of his guests, waiting at the foot of the staircase for the last carriage to leave before rushing back into the palace.

His nerves were on edge, entire body wound up and tense.

The Summer Solstice ball ran late into the night. He'd hoped to have woken to their return, but they were still nowhere to be seen.

Night was going to fall soon and his stomach fluttered nervously. Something must have gone wrong for them to be gone so long.

No...

No.

Katsuki told him they would be returning the morning after all the guests departed.

Izuku inhaled deeply and forced himself to relax. If only he could shake this terrible feeling.

~

Izuku woke and dressed before his handmaiden even opened his door. He curstied quickly as he passed her. The burnette squeaked and hurried after the Queen to the dining hall. He sat in his typical spot, even without Katsuki there. He glanced to the corner where Eijirou would normally stand, though Tenya stood there now.

He breathed deeply, forcing down each bite of his breakfast.

All morning felt as if the day was dragging out. He kept glancing out the windows, checking the courtyard and beyond the palace gate.

His nerves are simply eating away at him. He's not sure how much of this he can handle.

Then finally, shortly after the clock struck noon, Izuku heard the trumpet all the way from the garden. He whipped his head up, twisting to look, but he could only see the stables. Izuku pushed himself to his feet, curtsied and excused himself to make a dash for the courtyard.

Izuku rushed in from behind the stables, panting and placing a hand over his chest. He spotted three men and four horses.

That couldn't be right. Had someone gone inside? Is one just hidden from his sight?

He drew nearer, each step cautious as he recounted. Two blonds and one ravenette. No red hair.

Izuku's breath caught in his throat, stomach twisting in a cold grasp and tears already beginning to singe his eyes. His eyes met Katsuki's as the King turned and spotted him. His cloak was torn at the edges and singed, knuckles on both hands bruised and scabbing over. He held a familiar bandana, though it was ruined. Torn, muddied and... is that little patch blood?

"Where is he?"

Hanta and Denki turned away, Katsuki gripping the bandana tighter.

"They had already begun to move on from the abandoned village... Eijirou and I stumbled upon them, and... there were simply too many..." Katsuki clenched his jaw, lowering his head.

No, that can't be right. It's not. Eijirou and Katsuki are their fiercest warriors. Undefeated in each battle. Neither of them could be taken down so quickly, so easily, yet...

Here Katsuki was, holding Eijirou's bandana, bruised and bloodied himself. Here they all were without Eijirou.

Izuku gasped and stumbled back two steps, hands covering him mouth.

He can't cry. He can't. He can't fall to his knees and scream.

"Izuku-" Katsuki reached out for his mate, but the greenette spun on his heels and dashed for the palace doors.

"I'll start the memorial preparations!"

Izuku ran inside, passed the guards and through the main hall. Tears blurred his sight, grief seeping deep inside his chest.

He managed to make it to a familiar hall, stone arches showing off the view of the forest and lake behind the palace. Izuku collapsed and wailed, clutching his chest. Tears streamed down his face, lungs heaving for breath.

This couldn't be real.

~

The sun shined brightly on the day of Eijirou's memorial. Izuku felt so many fumbling emotions. Grief and loss, anger, fear...

Thoughts of Katsuki having killed Eijirou himself had plagued Izuku late at night, yet that couldn't be true. Katsuki didn't know of the affair. Even if he had, he would have had Eijirou hung, or had him beheaded and Izuku himself would also be punished.

Besides, Katsuki was grieving the loss of his best friend. His battle partner. The one he trained with nearly every day, the man who kept him level headed in the battle field.

Izuku looked to the King, both of them dressed in black in favor of the memorial. He reached over, carefully taking his mate's hand into both of his. Katsuki looked down to him just as Izuku leaned onto his shoulder.

Katsuki gave his hands a squeeze for comfort, his scent softening for Izuku.

~

Nearly a week after the service, Izuku still had a hard time breathing when alone. He still felt as if Eijirou would sneak up behind him and whisper sweet words in his ear. Still felt as if he could turn towards his balcony and see Eijirou standing there with a little bouquet he picked himself.

It was as he lay in bed, remembering the night he and Eijirou lay there, dreaming of their little house beneath a mountain that he realized something terrible.

Izuku shot up in bed, hands over his abdomen, eyes wide and shoulders shaking.

Eijirou spent an entire heat with him, whereas he and Katsuki hadn't even shared a bed in months.

He flipped the sheets off himself and rushed to the door, tightening his robe around himself. Izuku stepped into the hallway, startling the night guards.

"Your majesty!" Mina and Shoji bowed deeply.

"Where is the King?"

Mina blinked slowly as they straightened back up. "He is still in his study, I believe."

Izuku nodded to them, steps hurried towards his mate's office. Izuku didn't bother to knock. He rarely ever did before.

Katsuki looked up as the door closed, standing and raising his brow. "Izuku? I thought you had gone to bed."

"I had." Izuku made sure to lock the door, the slight click not going unnoticed by the King. "I needed to see you, Kacchan. We haven't spoken much since you've returned."

Katsuki hummed, stepping around his desk, folding his arms as he leaned back against it. "What do you wish to speak about?"

Izuku shook his head and approached Katsuki. "I don't wish to speak. I just would like to be with my mate..." He leaned onto Katsuki, placing his hands carefully on his broad chest.

The King's hands grasped his waist, expression soft. "You are truly a wonder, you know that?"

Izuku smiled softly, reaching up to brush his fingers along Katsuki's cheek. His mate loves and cherishes him. Izuku will fall back into love with him someday. Once his grief over Eijirou is a memory, Izuku can fill his heart again.

Katsuki's kiss was sweet and warm. It was so easy for Izuku to close his eyes and pretend for just this moment, Eijirou was holding him. Kissing him. Lifting him onto the edge of the desk and marking up his neck.

Rough hands traveled up his thighs, hiking up his gown and robe. Izuku sighed, tilting his head back and hooking his legs around his mate. He shuddered and gasped, fingers curling and massaging inside him. He could hear broken whispers of Eijirou's voice in the back of his mind, praising him and muttering his name.

Katsuki's cock pulled Izuku back into reality and he opened his eyes, meeting Katsuki's loving gaze. He reached up to cup his mate's cheek and kissed him. "Kacchan..."

Izuku whimpered and moaned with each deep thrust, hiding his face in Katsuki's shoulder. His mate kissed his head and murmured quietly into his hair.

They didn't fit quite so perfectly. At least in Izuku's mind. He didn't feel like a puzzle clicking into place. He felt like he was a piece being forced into a spot it wasn't quite right for.

But his puzzle piece is gone. He can't ever fit with him again.

~

"Ochako..?"

His handmaiden looked up to him and jogged closer. "Yes, your majesty?"

Izuku inhaled deeply, looking at himself in the mirror, hands on his belly. "How... how does one know if they are pregnant?"

"Oh, well..." Ochako folded Izuku's robe over her arm. "There are many ways, I suppose. Bloated stomach, cravings, swollen hands and feet, constant sickness... I believe there is more, but nothing immediately coming to mind."

The Queen hummed and bit his lip. "Would a doctor be able to determine for certain?"

Ochako stared at him, then placed a hand on his arm. "Your majesty..? Do you believe you are pregnant?"

Izuku swallowed hard, tears slipping down his face. He hated the person he saw in the mirror as he looked into his own eyes.

~

Izuku awoke with a yawn, humming as burnt sugar and cedar smoke filled his lungs. Worried Alphan scent seeping through the warm scent had Izuku rubbing his face and pushing himself up. "Kacchan..? What's the matter? Is something wrong..?"

Katsuki's hand gently cupped his cheek, thumb swiping underneath his eye. "I wanted to see you. I heard to visited the doctor while I was away. Are you still unwell?"

The Omega searched Katsuki's crimson eyes, taking his hand. He would find out eventually, may as well tell him now. No use trying to keep it secret.

Izuku forced a smile, hardly managing to maintain the tears in his eyes. "I'm pregnant, Kacchan..."

The King stared at him, blinking slowly a few times. He shifted closer, eyes brightening. "Really? The doctor confirmed this?" Izuku nodded, biting his lip to keep from trembling. A grin broke out on Katsuki's face, purr rumbling deep in his chest like thunder. He pulled Izuku into himself, burying his nose in Izuku's hair. "A pup... we're going to have a pup."

"Yes..." Izuku buried his face in Katsuki's cloak, gripping him tightly in the embrace.

~

Was it terrible he sometimes wished for a miscarriage? He's nurturing a life inside him that does not share blood with his mate. Yet, while he wished for the life to never be born, he's so grateful for this one thing of Eijirou to hold onto. This piece of Eijirou to have with him always.

Whenever he was alone, he'd imagine how Eijirou would be. Holding his swelling belly, whispering to their pup, oh-so giddy to be a sire.

Katsuki was thrilled, though. He already had a nursery completely set up for their pup and whenever he could be with Izuku, his hand would rest on his abdomen, thumb brushing back and forth slowly. He didn't really speak to the pup much, but they also were rarely alone.

Until now, that is.

The King is insisting they share quarters now, to better care for his pregnant mate.

Izuku feels so undeserving of this attention and care, but he cannot reject it for fear of raising suspicion.

He watched as his things were moved to Katsuki's room. While his mate had attempted moving into his room to make the transition easier on his Omega, Izuku just couldn't bare the thought of sharing this room with his mate after all of his memories of Eijirou in his room and on his terrace. The few times Eijirou climbed up, the times Eijirou lied to the guards outside Izuku's doors to waltz in like he owned the place.

When they lay tangled in Izuku's nest, dreaming of a future they would share.

Izuku can no longer be reminded of that long-lost future, so he convinced the King to allow him to move into his room.

Once all his things were gone, only the bed left with fresh linen, Izuku visited his terrace one last time. Running his fingers along the stone railing, listening to distant whispered memories of Eijirou's voice. When he made it back to the terrace doors, Izuku stared out to the lake beyond. He breathed deeply, raising his chin. As he closed the doors, he finally said his good-bye.

~

Trudging down the muddy streets, the ex-Knight held his hood over his head to block himself from the rain as much as possible. He made his way into the marketplace, in search of food and wood.

"I can't believe it!"

"I'm quite excited, really! It has been quite a long time, I was beginning to worry this would never come!"

The redhead perked up and looked over to one of the nearby stalls where a few villagers have huddled, hiding from the rain as they gossiped.

"I hear that the Todoroki's are furious. They were hoping to use the lack of hiers against the Crimson King."

"Pardon me," chipped in the Knight, stepping under the overhang with them. "What is the fuss, if I may?"

"Ahh, newcomer!" The shopkeeper grinned and patted Eijirou's shoulder. "We were just discussing the Crimson King's announcement!"

One of the women giggled and clapped, grin so wide, the corners of her eyes crinkled. "Their Queen is finally with child! They'll finally have an heir!"

Eijirou stared at them as the people talked giddily. Why they were so excited was beyond him, seeing as they weren't even in the Crimson Kingdom. Maybe they were citizens out of the kingdom for supplies?

He quickly got what he needed and hurried back to the trees beyond the village. He rushed down the familiar path, as quickly as he could with the lumber.

Quickly, he tossed the lumber beneath the make-shift shed and ran inside the unfinished cabin. Eijirou shut the door behind himself, hanging his cloak and looked around.

The fireplace was nearly done, he still had yet to make a frame for the mattress in the bedroom. The far wall was left empty with the thought of building on in the future. There was no real kitchen to speak of and the living area is mostly bare. But the bones are there. The ceiling and roof completed with all the walls and windows done, sealing the house and protecting inside from the weather.

This is supposed to be home. He is building this space for Izuku. This was the dream they had. Little house at the base of a mountain, surrounded by trees. Not that he had any hope of actually being able to bring Izuku here anymore.

The land cost a pretty penny and he worked hard at the black-smith to afford the supplies for his house. Thank Gods for his apprentice years when he learned every little thing he could.

Eijirou placed the sack of food on the poor table tucked beneath the window and sighed, carding his fingers through his hair.

Izuku is pregnant, huh..? So quickly... It has only been four months since his banishment-

His breath caught in his throat, fingers curling tight under the edge of his table.

It's only been four months.

The news of his pregnancy would have taken a few weeks to get here due to the village being part of another Kingdom. Izuku has a heat every three months, meaning if he had another heat, they wouldn't know of his pregnancy yet, especially since royal pregnancies are not announced typically until just before the Queen is showing.

Eijirou ran his hand down his face, eyes wide as he looked to his reflection in the window.

The pup is his.

~

Izuku's feet and back were so terribly sore, but he needed to walk around. He was simply going insane just lying in bed all day. He held his belly, large and round. The pup is incredibly rambunctious and likes to kick at every sound. Very strong and very healthy.

The Queen wandered into the courtyard, the space surprisingly mellow. Only a few servants here and there, mostly just chatting quietly, a few cleaning the cobblestone. He smiled and nodded in greeting as he passed, making her way passed the stables.

He shuffled towards the gardens, wanting the scent of roses, halting only as he spotted a flash of movement from the corner of his eyes. Izuku halted and looked to the trees. He swallowed, taking careful steps towards the movement.

"Izuku!"

The greenette jumped, twisting to look as his mate rushed down the hill, followed by Hanta. "Kacchan?"

"Izuku, what the hell are you doing out of bed!?" Katsuki gently took hold of his mate and inspected him, brows pinched in concern.

Sighing, Izuku grabbed Katsuki's face and tilted his head up. "I will go insane just laying in bed, Katsuki. I needed the walk and the fresh air. I am fine, I promise you."

Katsuki growled lowly, hold relaxing. "Izuku, you could have the pup any day now... please, if you need to leave the room, at least ask for company." The King placed a hand on Izuku's lower back and guided him back towards the palace.

Humming, Izuku allowed himself to be lead along. This was the farthest he's gotten in a few weeks, so he'll take it.

~

When Izuku fell into labor, he didn't call for the Guard standing outside his door. He stumbled to the terrace doors and shut them between harsh contractions, then also filled the tub. Izuku paced and whimpered, gritting his teeth and biting back sobs with each flare of pain.

Then he began to fret the labor may take all day. His mate could just walk into their bedroom. The doctor could come in the check in on him and the pup.

Oh, that can't happen. He has to be the first to see the pup. Has to be the only one.

Izuku continuously checked his cervix, feeling how stretched he's becoming to ensure he won't push too early. To know when he needs to enter the tub.

Just after the sun had passed over its peak, Izuku shakily climbed into the tub, crouching and gripping the edges. He inhaled deeply through his nose, releasing slowly. With his next contraction, he pushed. Teeth gnashing, arms trembling as his grip tightened on the ledge of the tub. Izuku gasped once the contraction passed, allowing himself to relax.

It's harder than he thought, knowing when to push. Keeping quiet is really the easy part. Low, pained whimpers and whines, gasping for breath after every push. Sweat dotted his forehead, his curls clinging to his skin. Tears streaked his cheeks, jaw sore from the clenching.

He reached into the water, whimpering as he felt his pup's head. He bit his lip, eyes pinching shut as he pushed with every last bit of strength. Izuku cried out, trembling with effort until the end.

Izuku slumped back against the tub, swiftly lifting his pup. Sputtering and whimpering, the pup squirmed and pouted, face red and splotchy. Izuku sobbed, gently wiping their face clean with the sleeve of his robe, cradling his pup close to his chest.

Chubby cheeks, button nose, and rich, nearly black, green hair. Their eyes were dark and stormy blue, just as all pups when born.

"Little pup," Izuku murmured, lips pressing to his pup's forehead, closing his eyes.

With a sniff and a shaking hand, Izuku reached for the towel he set aside and carefully wrapped his pup. He crooned and softened his scent as his pup began to cry, then bit his lip as he tied the cord connecting them. He still had more to pass and he's sure he may need a doctor's help.

"Oh, pup..." Izuku rocked and stroked his pup's hair, smiling once the babe settled again. "My darling... oh, my love, you are beautiful..."

"Your majesty, I thought I heard cry- oh my Gods!" Ochako turned the corner and gasped once she saw the Queen, dropping the clothes she had in hand. "Your majesty!"

Izuku looked up quickly, instinctively tucking his pup closer to himself. "'Chako..."

His handmaiden squeaked and ran from the room, shouting into the halls. "Go get the King! Fetch the doctor, the Queen just gave birth!"

Izuku bit his lip, closing his eyes and nosing gently at his pup. He could have sworn he locked his bedroom door. Apparently not...

He swayed and crooned softly, carefully scenting his little pup.

Within minutes, thunderous and quick footsteps - nearly sounded like a stampede - entered the room, Katsuki the first to swing in to see the Queen.

Izuku looked up to Katsuki, the King breathing heavily, eyes wide and scent thick with panic. The doctor rushed in behind, going straight for the tub.

Katsuki strided over and fell to his knees beside his mate. "Izuku..." He swallowed hard, hesitantly reaching for him.

The Omega leaned closer to him. "A boy... Alpha boy..." His voice broke, smile wobbly.

Chuckling, Katsuki rested his forehead against Izuku's. "All I care about is you both being okay, Izuku... Why didn't you say anything? Why do this alone?"

Izuku swallowed, gently taking his pup's little hand. The pad of his thumb covered his pup's entire palm. He didn't have a good answer for Katsuki. He hadn't had a good excuse ready.

"Both seem to be in good shape, my Lord," the doctor spoke up, catching the attention of Queen and King. "I need to cut the cord, but it looks as if everything has passed. He did well, even on his own."

The Queen smiled, looking back down to the pup. "He's beautiful..."

Katsuki hummed, brushing his thumb along the pup's rosy cheek. "Little Prince... What do you want to name him..?"

Izuku inhaled, adjusting the pup. He wanted something to in some way honor Eijirou, yet kept his pup separate from his true sire. "Daiki... Noble, radiant and light..."

~

Izuku hummed a soft tune, rocking Daiki as he walked around the room. Daiki cooed, curled up in his Dam's arms. "Little pup, you need to sleep... we have a big day tomorrow. People will be coming from all our allied Kingdoms to come see you..."

Daiki yawned, fists pressing into his cheeks. Izuku purred and kissed his son's fluffy green hair, pushing the terrace doors open. Daiki enjoyed the fresh air, so hopefully being outside for a few minutes will help him fall asleep.

Tucking the blanket tighter around the pup, Izuku stood at the end of the terrace. He admired his son, running his finger along the slope of his little nose.

Once again, movement in the treeline catches Izuku's attention. He snapped his head up, breath catching.

A man stood under the shade of the trees, cloak hiding his face. Izuku swallowed hard, heart jumping.

The man reached up to his hood beginning to pull it away when Izuku heard his bedroom door open. He turned quickly. "Katsuki!"

His mate didn't hesitate before running out to the terrace. "Izuku!?"

The greenette stepped back and pointed to the trees, but the man was gone. "He... there was..."

Katsuki took his mate into his arms, reaching to touch Daiki's cheek to ensure the pup was alright before looking to the trees where Izuku pointed. "What is it?"

"There was someone there... He was right there, I saw him. I know I did." Izuku swallowed, pulling Daiki closer to his neck.

The King tensed his jaw and ushered Izuku back inside. "I'll send some of the Guard out to investigate. You and Daiki need to rest."

Izuku nodded, letting himself be urged into bed. He looked back out the closed terrace doors to the trees, no man there to be seen.

~

Daiki's celebration was the first party Izuku has ever seen Katsuki attend the full length of. Izuku felt so guilty, watching Katsuki being so proud to have a son, but Izuku feared knowing all the things his mate could do once knowing Daiki isn't truly his. Izuku could lose his son, and he is unwilling to place his pup at risk for his past mistakes.

Not that Eijirou was ever a mistake.

Oh, Gods. He's still thinking of him.

Izuku crooned softly as he lay Daiki in the crib, despite the pup already being fast asleep. He smiled, thumbs brushing little chubby cheeks.

He stood straight, not wanting to further disturb his pup's slumber and turned to the terrace. Izuku walked to the doors, going to close the curtains in front of them when he halted, spotting a neatly wrapped package on the terrace, wild flowers bound to the top with twine.

Carefully, as he glanced to all surroundings, Izuku opened the doors and stepped out onto the terrace.

Daiki has received many gifts during the day. Lots of clothing, toys, things he'll need in the future. However, all those gifts were brought to them in the throne hall.

Izuku licked his lips, hesitating before picking up the package. The thumbed carefully at the flowers before looking around. Whoever left this was long-gone.

He carefully untied the twine, as he entered his room, setting the flowers on the table beside his bed. He sat, unwrapping the package with care.

Just a simple box. Nothing extravagant or eye-catching. Izuku opened the box and froze.

A simple little toy, carved from wood. A Knight atop his horse, polished to shine in the dim light. In the side of the horse, Daiki's name was carved. Izuku gulped, setting the toy aside to grab the blanket it had rested on. Soft fleece to keep Daiki warm in the winter, a rich red that smelled of earth and smoke. Like a campfire lit after a spell of rain. Warm, safe and familiar.

The box fell from his lap as he bolted to the terrace. Tears stung his wide eyes, doors swinging open and he ran into the railing. He looked around quickly, clutching the blanket to his chest.

Izuku panted, heart racing. No one was anywhere to be seen. Not even a trace of a visitor, aside from the blanket and toy.

It couldn't be, yet the blanket was very present in his hand, the scent still fresh.

He stumbled away from the railing.

How could this happen? Who could have left this gift on his terrace? How did they get Eijirou's scent so perfect in the little blanket?

Izuku looked back inside, hearing son begin to fuss. He swallowed and licked his lips.

The Omega approached the cradle, seeing Daiki had kicked off a portion of his little white blanket and had a little red-faced pout on. Izuku tried to croon, but the sound came out sad and broken.

Daiki whimpered and Izuku bit back a sob of his own. He didn't even think before offering the red blanket to the pup. He settled quickly, eyes big as the unfamiliar fabric was tenderly wrapped around him. Daiki cooed softly, eased by the scent and warmth.

"This is your father's scent, Daiki... isn't it wonderful..?" With teary eyes, Izuku managed a wobbly smile. "You would have loved him... and I can just imagine how much he would have loved you..."

His pup yawned, eyes beginning to droop. Izuku leaned into the crib and kissed his forehead. "Sleep well..."

Once Daiki had once again fallen asleep, Izuku turned back to the terrace. The doors were still open, and there was still not a soul to be seen.

How was this possible?

~

As Daiki grew, Izuku could see similarities between him and Eijirou. He had his sire's boxy smile, while also having Izuku's dimples. His nose was beginning to slope and shape like Eijirou's, as well as his chin. He did have Izuku's darker tinted skin and dark green curls, and around his first birthday, Izuku noticed the beginnings of freckles. Daiki's eyes finally transitioned from that typical stormy grayish-blue all newborns have to a dark red. Darker than either Katsuki's or Eijirou's eyes.

Thankfully, though, Daiki just looked so much like Izuku and had the red eyes, no one really had a question of anyone other than Katsuki being the Prince's sire.

Daiki was quite the energetic child. The moment he was able to stand, he could run. He ran everywhere. Down the halls, through the courtyard. Izuku swears he's had at least a dozen heart attacks.

Oh, and Daiki loves peek-a-boo. Especially with Katsuki. He likes sitting on the floor beside Katsuki as the King works at his desk, covering himself with Katsuki's cloak.

"Oh no! I've lost Daiki again!"

Daiki will kick and squeak, then throw the blanket off of himself to grin up at the King. Katsuki gasps and sweeps the pup off the floor, holding him up in the air. "I've found you!" Daiki shrieks in delight, squirming giddily as Izuku watches fondly.

Then Katsuki will set him back down after a kiss to his nose, continue to work as Daiki waddles to Izuku, babbling and patting his hands before returning to Katsuki's side, sitting and hiding himself beneath the cloak once more, just for the entire process to start again.

Daiki can only sleep if he has the red blanket. Eijirou's scent has long-vanished and Izuku hasn't received anymore strange gifts or seen strange movement in the trees. He wonders now, if it had been Eijirou's spirit watching over him, giving him one last gift. Which, Daiki's favorite toy is the Knight and horse carving. Izuku can't help but to think this is a subconscious connection to his true sire.

Silly thoughts, but thoughts that give him comfort nonetheless.

~

"Momma! See!" Daiki pointed excitedly to their surroundings, carefully straddled in the saddle in front of Izuku.

The Omega smiled, holding him with one hand, reins in the other. "Yes, I see. Can you say, 'mountains'?"

Daiki pursed his lips, grasping the pommel of the saddle tightly in his little hands. "Mow-man!"

Laughing, Izuku hunched over to nuzzle Daiki's fluffy curls, his pup squeaking and giggling. "Close enough!"

Katsuki chuckled from ahead of them, looking back. "Someone's excited."

"Oh, yes. Finally awake and has the energy of a foal in spring," Izuku mused, patting his son's belly. Daiki gasped, grabbing Izuku's hand. "Do you know how much farther until the next village?"

"Just through this pass, your Majesty," Denki piped up behind them. "I hear the village has actually grown the last couple years, though. A lot of the outer villages have in Endeavor."

"Interesting. Any idea why?" Izuku turned to look back at the accompanying Knights.

Denki shrugged but Hanta kicked his horse up. "A lot of people are actually immigrating from neighboring countries due to Endeavor's more favorable economy and rich land to grow crops on, but they'd rather not have the Emperor notice their arrival immediately, so they build on the outer villages since he only ever passes through. He doesn't actually visit."

Izuku hummed and nodded, turning back to look ahead.

Their party finally reached the village at noon, Guards beginning to set up camp on the outskirts. Katsuki went into townsquare with Hanta, Izuku staying behind with Daiki and the others.

Daiki sat on a blanket lain in the grass, playing with his toys as Izuku watched him nearby. They say in the midst of the tents, Knights keeping busy around them.

"Your majesty," Ochako bowed as she stood in front of the Queen. Izuku looked away from Daiki and acknowledged her. "We have your tent ready if you and the Prince would like to retire for the evening and get some rest."

Izuku nodded and stood, giving her a polite bow of his head. "Thank you. I'll take him."

Once she left, Izuku lifted Daiki into his arms and carried his toys in the blanket, taking them to their tent. Once in, Izuku lay Daiki's things beside the make-shift bedroll and sat him back down.

Daiki squeaked and returned to his play as if he hadn't even been moved. Izuku grabbed his book and lay back. After a while, his eyes fluttered closed, his pup content and their surroundings quiet. He startled and jolted, book on his chest. He must have dozed off.

Izuku sat up more, rubbing his face, then froze as he realized he couldn't hear Daiki.

Daiki's blanket and toys all still lay they and he hadn't curled up beside Izuku. He wasn't anywhere to be seen within the tent.

Izuku gasped and tossed his book aside, fret making his stomach drop and heart lurch into his throat. He hurried from the tent and whipped his head side-to-side. "Daiki!?" He rushed and weaved through the tents, startling Knights as he called for his pup.

"Your majesty!" Mina carefully grabbed the Queen's arm, halting him. "What is wrong?"

The greenette sucked in a sharp breath, tears spilling from his eyes. "I fell asleep! Daiki was gone when I woke!"

Mina's eyes widened and she released him, calling to the rest of their party. Izuku quickly returned to searching. "The Prince is missing! Someone get the King!"

"Daiki!" He cried as he ran into the trees. He called out his pup's name, each passing second without him making his panic rise. He heard the other's calling for the Prince, but he's still just a pup.

What if someone has taken him? What if he's fallen? He could be injured? Oh, Gods, he could be dead! All because Izuku dozed off!

"Daiki!"

This is what he gets. This is what he deserves. Having an affair, keeping his pup's true parentage secret. Allowing his mate to believe he's the sire. Lying to him this entire time.

He heard a little squeak and gasped, spinning on his heel. Izuku held his breath, eyes wide. The squeaks came again, and Izuku ran. He bolted through the trees, cape catching on the undergrowth.

Izuku followed the thrilled squeals, heart racing. He broke into a clearing, stumbling as he spotted Daiki, a man crouched nearby. "Daiki!"

The pup looked up, curls bouncing, and grinned. "Momma!" He pushed himself to his feet and ran towards Izuku.

Sobbing in absolute relief, Izuku fell to his knees and pulled his pup into his chest. "Oh Gods, Daiki..!"

His pup giggled, clinging to him. "Momma, a bubba-fie!"

Izuku huffed a wet laugh and pulled back, stroking Daiki's curls out of his face. "Did you see a butterfly? You love butterflies."

Daiki squeaked and squirmed from Izuku's grasp. Izuku was quite reluctant to release him, but his pup no longer wanted to be held. He's far more interested in playing.

"Oh, Gods..." Izuku wiped as his cheeks, shoulders slumping. "I'm so sorry, sir, I must look absolutely pathetic... Thank you for finding him, I don't know what I-"

His breath caught as he looked to the man sitting not to far from him, his own eyes wide.

Both stared, unblinking, Izuku unable to breathe. He swears his heart stopped as well.

There's simply no way. He must be seeing a ghost. That must be it. A ghost. The same one that left the present on his terrace so long ago.

Yet...

"Izuku..."

He gasped as he heard his name, more tears springing from his eyes. His mouth fell open, wanting to speak, but unable. All words were caught in his throat.

The man was unmistakable. Vermilion eyes with the little scar on his right eyelid up to his brow. The square jaw, sharp teeth. The vibrant red hair, hanging in front of his face as well as tied back above his nape. His deep, gravel voice Izuku never thought he'd hear again.

"Eijirou..?" Izuku's voice trembled, still disbelieving. "H-how..? You... you're dead..?"

Quickly jumped to his feet. "I need to go-"

"No! Wait-" Izuku scrambled up and rushed forward, yelping as he slipped and began to fall.

Eijirou dove in, quickly catching him by his arms and lifting him back up, accidentally pulling him close. They stood face-to-face, Izuku shaking. Eijirou swallowed hard, brows pinched.

Izuku reached up, fingers brushing carefully over Eijirou's cheek. "You... you're here... you're really here."

The Alpha slowly pulled away. "I... I-"

Daiki shrieked, startling both of them. Izuku twisted quickly to see he had fallen.

"Oh, Daiki!" Izuku rushed to his pup, gathering him in his arms and quickly inspecting him. "Daiki, are you hurt? What happened?"

His pup whined, grabbing his knee.

"Daiki!?"

"Izuku!"

Izuku looked back over his shoulder, Katsuki and Knights rushing from the trees. He turned again, looking to where Eijirou had been to see he'd vanished.

"Izuku, what happened!? Is Daiki okay!?" Katsuki dove to his knees beside them, scent strong with distress as he began to inspect the little Prince.

He couldn't speak. He wasn't sure what to say. He wasn't even sure what he was even thinking. Izuku just clutched his pup tighter and sobbed, falling into Katsuki's chest as he's pulled closer.

~

The rest of the journey to the Todoroki palace, Izuku was nearly silent. He never once took his eyes off Daiki.

He just can't seem to grasp the fact of Eijirou being alive. How is it possible? Did Katsuki lie to him? Or did Katsuki not know he was still alive after the attack?

Laying next to Katsuki the night they reached the palace was difficult. He stared at the ceiling, completely unable to sleep.

Daiki lay between them, sprawled out on his back, his little nose twitching.

Izuku carefully slid out of bed, tightening his robe around himself. He left the room, closing the door slowly as to not make a sound. The halls were quiet and nearly empty. He nodded to the servants and the occasional Guard.

He made his way outside, wandering to the paddock where a few horses still grazed. Izuku sighed, leaning onto the fencing.

"Oh, you've found my quiet place."

Izuku gasped and jumped, swiveling around to face the monotone voice. "Oh- Prince Shouto! I'm terribly sorry-" Izuku gave a quick curtsey, but the Prince raised his hand.

"It is fine. I assume you cannot sleep, either."

The Queen watched the Prince approach and lean against the fence as well. "No... I cannot." Izuku pursed his lips, folding his arms. "Too much on my mind. I'm so... confused and hurt..."

Shouto looked to him, head tilted. "I know that I am not quite so close to you... but I am willing to listen if you need to talk, your majesty."

Izuku smiled, meeting the Prince's gentle gaze. "I don't want to bore you."

"You could never. I am always enraptured everytime you speak. You could speak of a horse's ass and I will stay intrigued."

The Queen laughed, head tilting to the side. "Goodness, my Prince... I hate that I cannot tell when you are joking."

"I was only partially joking."

Izuku hummed, thumbing at the sleeve of his robe. "Do you... remember our previous Head of Guard..?"

Shouto looked out to the horses. "Oh, yes. Eijirou Kirishima, right? He passed a few years ago."

"Yes... supposedly." He received a confused glance from the Prince, but he didn't speak. "I, uhm... I've never told anyone... but he and I were... entangled in an affair."

"Mm..." Shouto pursed his lips and nodded slowly. "That is quite complicated."

Chuckling, Izuku ran his fingers through his hair. "Very... to make matters worse... Daiki is his son... Not Katsuki's."

Sympathetic, Shouto turned back to face Izuku. "But he died so long before the Prince was born?"

"Just a week after my heat..." Izuku sniffed, looking down to his hands as he picked at his fingernails. "I hadn't meant to spend heat with him. Katsuki and I planned to, but... it started early, while we were in a village... and we were under attack. I had escaped alone, but couldn't make it to the palace. I hid in a cottage, and Eijirou had found me first."

"So the affair was an accident?"

Izuku laughed and shook his head. "No... the affair had been going on for several months before this heat. I was in love. We both were, I hope..."

Shouto entwined his fingers. "Alright. I can understand that. A forbidden love."

"How do you understand, if I may ask?"

The Prince quirked a small, bitter smile. "I'll tell you after your story, my Queen. So, what does the Knight who has been gone have to do with why you cannot sleep tonight?"

Izuku inhaled deeply. "I saw him... He was near the village just outside the mountain pass. Daiki had run off and when I found him, Eijirou was with him."

Shouto's brows pinched together. "But he's dead..? This is where the 'supposedly' comes in."

"Yes, it is. So, I have so many different scenarios in my head, but absolutely nothing makes sense. I thought maybe that Katsuki had only thought Eijirou was dead and when he came to, didn't remember, and wandered to the village? But that couldn't make sense, because he recognized me. And he must have left me those gifts when Daiki was born. So then why not return? Does he not want to return to me?" Tears welled in Izuku's eyes once again, fingers curling tight into his robe sleeve.

Shouto sucked on his teeth and stood up straight. "Well... have you thought of Katsuki knowing Eijirou is alive?"

Izuku turned back to the Prince. He swallowed and pursed his lips. "I have... and... if Katsuki knows, that means he had sent Eijirou away. That means... he knows of the affair. But he couldn't know. If he knew, he would have to have Eijirou and I killed. He wouldn't be such... such a wonderful sire for Daiki."

The Prince leaned back against the fence, gaze shifting to the palace. "Have you asked him?"

"Asked Katsuki if he knows about my affair?"

"Yes. You should. And also ask about the Knight."

Izuku sucked in a breath, turning away. "Oh, Gods... that's too much. I couldn't possibly ask."

"Here's a question." Shouto pushed off the fence, clasping his hands behind his back. "Before... before the Knight was gone, if both were before you, asking you to choose one of them, who would you have gone with?"

Whimpering, Izuku hid his face in his hands. "That is an impossible choice. I love both of them, Prince. I could never possibly choose. I don't want to have to lose one to keep the other." He looked back to Shouto. "I need both of them..."

"But you cannot have both, my Queen. Especially with your title. To me, it sounds as if King Bakugou had discovered the affair. He also cared too much about the both of you and banished the Knight instead of carrying out a traditional punishment. I do remember how close the King was to him."

Izuku gulped hard, hands to his chest. If that is true, Katsuki deserves so much better than him. He was hurt in the most terrible way.

"Hanta Sero."

The Queen quickly looked back to Shouto.

Sighing, Shouto carded his fingers through his hair. "Your Knight, Hanta Sero. I live for his short visits to trade information between my father and your mate. I love to visit your Kingdom because I know I will see him there. Those few times a year are the best moments of my life, and I know it will be most impossible to even approach him with the hope of being even Lovers. Mates are absolutely out of the question, both him and I would be killed on sight."

Izuku lowered his hands. "But... you are both Alphas?"

"Quite the scandal, isn't it? Especially seeing as I hardly spend any time with him." Shouto smiled up at him. "Maybe we both are cursed. Made to love those we cannot have, no matter how close or far."

The Queen reached out, carefully taking his hand. "My Prince..."

"Please, Shouto is fine when we are alone."

"Then call me Izuku."

Shouto hummed in approval and nodded. "I can do that... I have one more question. If you were in my position, what do you believe you would do?"

Izuku blinked slowly, studying the Prince's face. He sighed through his nose. "I'd express my feelings for Hanta... and if he reciprocated, I'd run away with him. Far away from the titles, the forced responsibilities... somewhere you can be yourselves with each other..."

"Sounds as if you've thought of this before."

Chuckling, Izuku turned away once again. Shouto gently nudged him and they began to walk together. "I have... Eijirou and I used to talk about running away together... We had a very specific vision of our future." He rubbed his arm, looking ahead. "So, I'll ask you the same. What do you think you would do in my position?"

Shouto gave a slight shrug with a pinch in his brow. "Well... to be honest, I'd pick the Knight. You do have a pup with him."

Izuku halted his steps and laughed, strained and short. Shouto stopped a few steps after and turned, confused. Izuku wiped at the tears on his cheeks. "Of course if it were only that simple... Choosing the one that helped me create my pup... That once again has both of them on level ground. I'm pregnant."

"Oh..." Shouto glanced to the ground. "That does complicate things quite a bit."

"Yes... and it is making this new predicament just that much harder to process." Izuku held himself, closing his eyes. "To think, he's been alive this entire time and I have been trying to live as if he wasn't."

"I really don't have any advice. You are entangled in quite the mess." Shouto's voice was quiet and sympathetic as he offered his arm to the Queen. "I should return you to the palace."

Izuku nodded slowly, taking the offer and following the Prince.

~

Izuku swayed slowly with Daiki, holding him close and rubbing his back. His pup was fast asleep, has been for several minutes now, but Izuku is distracted. He's been staring out the window as their belongings are packed and prepped for the journey home.

Katsuki sighed and approached his mate as the last of their things were taken out of the room. "Izuku? What is going on in that mind of yours?" He placed one hand on his mate's lower back, the other coming up to stroke at Daiki's fluffy hair lovingly.

The Queen inhaled deeply, staring out to the distant mountains. "You know, don't you..?"

Chuckling, Katsuki nosed at Daiki's hair as the pup shifted and pouted in his sleep. "Know what..?"

Everything he did lead Izuku to believe Katsuki couldn't possibly know. Especially now as his attention was mostly on their slumbering pup.

"My affair..."

That made Katsuki stop. Izuku's heart leapt, immediately regretting those words. He steeled himself, gaze fixed on the view. If Katsuki didn't know before-

"Yes."

The answer actually startled Izuku. He turned to face his mate who still had his eyes on Daiki. "You do..?"

Katsuki breathed deeply. "Izuku... I know. I know about Eijirou and I know that... By blood, Daiki is not my son."

Izuku clenched his jaw, tears welling in his eyes. Gods, does he ever stop crying? "So you know Eijirou is alive?"

"How do you?" Katsuki pulled back, brows furrowed.

"At the village this side of the mountain pass. Daiki found him when he ran from camp."

"Did he talk to you?"

"No. He ran the moment I had Daiki." Izuku shuffled to the bed, grabbing Daiki's blanket to drape over him.

Katsuki sighed, staying by the window. "I smelled him in the cabin. I didn't want to believe it. I kept trying so hard to deny it, but then I saw you kiss him in the stables."

Izuku whimpered, pressing his cheek against his pup's head. "So why... why didn't you say anything? Why not..?" His voice trailed, unable to ask.

"Why not kill you two?" Katsuki strided to Izuku and took his face in his hands carefully. "Izuku... you two are the people I care the most about. Yes, it hurt like hell, finding out what you two were doing. But the thought of losing you two was worse. So I sent him away. I let you believe he was dead. That, to me, was better than just letting it happen, because what if someone else found out? The entire Kingdom would know. I would be unable to turn a blind eye. I would be able to keep you and I would know that Eijirou is alive, somewhere safe." Katsuki stroked Izuku's hair back and kissed his forehead, gently brushing away his tears as they fell. "You may not love me like you love him... but, Izuku... you are everything to me."

Izuku sobbed, leaning into his touch. "Why aren't you angry with me?"

"I was. I was very angry when I found out. However, I just..." Katsuki coaxed him down onto the bed. "I wanted you to love me again."

The greenette huffed a little laugh as he finally met Katsuki's eyes. "Katsuki, I never stopped loving you. You are so precious to me. I never wanted to hurt you. I never meant for the affair to start, it all just... it just happened. I couldn't let him go, but I never meant to hurt you."

Katsuki sighed, rubbing his face. "I know..."

Izuku looked out the windows again, resting his cheek on Daiki's head. "Will we ever tell Daiki..?"

The King turned fully to Izuku, taking his hand. "Even if not by blood, Daiki is still my son. He will not be treated any differently and I still plan on passing my crown to him someday once he is of age." Izuku teared up once more, gripping his pup.

"But our pup-"

"Will have their own inheritance. I love Daiki with all my heart. I will not pass off what is rightfully his."

Izuku whimpered and leaned onto his mate. "You deserve so much better than me, Kacchan."

A chin rested a top his head, back being rubbed lovingly. "Maybe I am too kind."

The Queen laughed softly, closing his eyes.

~

Eijirou trudged back home, mud caking his boots. He clutched his stock of firewood and steered towards the shed, dropping the freshly chopped logs beneath the shelter.

Flicking his hood off his head, he stepped up his porch, opened his door and froze.

There stood his Queen, facing away from Eijirou as his fingers traced the wooden hearth.

"Izuku..? What..?"

The greenette turned to face him and smiled softly. "Hi... we are passing through again... and I wanted to see you..."

Eijirou swallowed hard, gripping the doorknob. "You shouldn't be here. The King-"

"Kacchan knows I'm here." Izuku folded his hands in front of himself. "He finally told me everything when we reached the Todoroki palace. I thought you were dead this entire time, Eiji..."

Sighing, the ex-Knight closed the door. "I couldn't... I couldn't let you know he lied... but I left you the gift. You saw me by the trees when Daiki was born-"

"And I was supposed to know what to make of it? And I had no idea that was you in the trees. I had no idea what was going on. I was still grieving you." Izuku stepped closer. "I still am... I never stopped thinking of you. I wanted you to be the one raising Daiki with me..."

"In a little cabin..." Eijirou gestured around. "At the base of a mountain, in the trees... with a fireplace..."

Izuku smiled, eyes glistening. "You really built this..? All of it?"

Eijirou reached out and took his hand. "For you... Though, I never thought I'd actually see you inside... Only ever dreamt."

The Queen brushed his fingers over Eijirou's cheek. "You look just as I remember you, Eiji... and Daiki is so much like you. So happy and energetic."

Smiling, the redhead leaned into the touch. "He's beautiful... looks just like you... I was... devastated when I heard of your pregnancy... I knew I couldn't be apart of his life..."

Izuku whimpered softly, looking down. His hand fell from Eijirou's cheek to his chest. "I wish I could stay... Daiki and I both. I want him to know you..."

Eijirou's jaw clenched, eyes stinging. They cannot stay. Even if he begs.

"Daiki only knows Katsuki as his father... to take him away at so young... He wouldn't understand. And I am mated and married to Katsuki. I am the Queen. I cannot just... Vanish. Especially because... I am pregnant again." Izuku bit his lip, pulling his hand away. "I have to stay with Katsuki... I cannot just choose between you two. I love you both too much, but I had to think of my pups' best interests."

"I understand, Izuku." Eijirou grabbed Izuku's shoulders and inhaled deeply. "I may not like it, but I understand. Maybe... in another life."

Izuku smiled bitterly, wiping away at his tears. "In another life, Eijirou." He stepped closer, cupping the Knight's face and pulling him into a tender kiss. "Goodbye..."

~

Katsuki was present for their second pup's birth.

Beautiful female Alpha, blonde hair like her sire. Princess Hana.

Daiki was thrilled to be an older brother and loved to hold her. Izuku decided maybe once his son is much older, just before he is given his crown, to tell him of his true parentage. Katsuki agreed and said he would be there with him to tell Daiki.

Even though that conversation is years down the line, Izuku still frets what his son will think of him. Fears his son despising him for lying, for committing adultery. He could even despise them for never being able to meet Eijirou.

Izuku sees Eijirou still on occasion. Whenever they visit the Todoroki's. It requires much willpower to not fall into him all over again, but it helps to have a lack of interaction. It helps to hold his pups close so his sole focus is on them. Hana and Daiki take priority. They always will.

~

Eijirou huffed as he stepped out of the heat of the Blacksmith shop. He patted down the leather apron before lifting it off his head, letting it hang from his waist. He wiped his grimey hands off on his stained shirt, walking further into the street.

"They're unsuspecting, Shigaraki. Our forces are nearly ready for departure."

The redhead paused, tuning into the conversation.

"How long until we move forward?" The voice that spoke next was raspy and weak, but confident.

"Everyone has agreed upon the new moon to meet at the mountain pass. We'll reach the Crimson palace in three days time from there."

"Unnoticed?"

"Of course. I have devised the perfect route. We approach from the West under the cover of night, then strike the King down in his sleep."

Eijirou's breath caught in his throat, stomach dropping.

"And the spawn?"

"Whatever you want. Bury them in the lake, burn them in fire, slice their throats."

Daiki... Hana...

"His royal Majesty, the Queen?"

"Wed him and you gain two lands, Shigaraki. He bares good heirs as well. Attentive Dam. Once he gives you everything you need, kill him."

Eijirou licked his lips, continuing forward. He couldn't run. Can't raise suspicion - although, just standing there should have been quite the tell.

~

Izuku laughed, the only one left sitting on the blanket.

Katsuki growled playfully, tousling with their over-excited pups in the grass.

Hana squealed, holding up her wooden blade. "I tamed him! I tame the monster!"

"No!" Daiki was wrapped around Katsuki's head, cape draped over him. "I have! See! I've still got him!"

The younger pouted and crossed her arms. "But I have sword!"

"Or maybe the monster isn't tamed yet!" Katsuki snarled as he yanked Hana off her feet and buried his face in her chubby belly, blowing raspberries.

Hana screamed and squirmed, pushing against his face. "No, no! Daddy!"

Izuku laughed more, hand on his chest. "Pups, you still haven't finished your food! You need to eat before we send you back to your studies!"

Daiki groaned, releasing Katsuki and falling into the grass behind him. "I don't want to!"

"No study!" Hana swung her sword and pointed back to the palace.

"So boring," Daiki groaned and rolled onto his stomach.

"That's too damn bad," Katsuki mused, seating Hana in one arm, reaching back to ruffle Daiki's hair. "Gotta study your ass off and be the smartest King someday. Can't let some other bone head defeat you."

Daiki snorted, swatting at his father's hand. "I'll slay them all!"

Izuku shook his head with a fond smile. "Now, Daiki. Violence isn't always the solution."

"But sometimes it is." Daiki propped his chin in his palms, looking to his Dam. "I have to use words as great as I use a sword."

Katsuki chuckled, leaning back to loop his arm around Daiki and pulled him close, nuzzling his hair. "Smart Prince!"

Daiki gasped and squirmed. "No- dad!"

Izuku rolled his eyes, shifting his legs. He patted down his blouse, halting as he spotted movement from the corner of his eye. He turned his head, heart jumping as he spotted a cloaked figure step out of the shadows of the trees.

The man reached up, pulling his hood off to reveal bright red hair. Izuku stared, eyes wide and breath caught in his throat.

"Izuku?"

The Queen snapped his head back to his mate and pups, all looking to him concerned. Izuku gulped and gestured to the man.

Katsuki twisted, jaw clenching. "Pups, go to your mother. Stay here." He released the two, shooing them as he stands.

Izuku held his arms out, Hana falling into his chest as Daiki sat beside him.

Eijirou stayed firm as Katsuki approached. The King wore a scowl, shoulders squared and chin raised. "Kirishima..."

The redhead bowed. "Your majesty... I do apologize for intruding, but before you kill me... I have grim information." He looked back up to his old friend, hoping desperately to be heard out.

Katsuki glanced over his shoulder to his family, the three still by the gardens, huddled on the picnic blanket and watching the interaction intently. "What information?"

"The League has returned." Eijirou straightened back up, running his fingers through his hair. Katsuki's expression darkened, but not at him. "They have made a plan to attack the palace. If the information I overheard is correct, they must have met last night in the mountain pass separating your Kingdom from Endeavor."

"What do they hope to gain from this attack?"

Eijirou licked his lips, gaze flicking to Izuku and the pups. "They hope to go unnoticed to better kill you and the pups. Their leader wants to wed and breed the Queen to gain your land as well as his family's land."

Katsuki growled deeply, grabbing Eijirou's shoulder. "You are sure? Completely?"

"If I wasn't, I wouldn't have risked my life to be here."

The King ran his hand down his face and turned back. Eijirou swallowed as he caught a wiff of distress coming from the King. "Come." Katsuki looked back to Eijirou. "You have the most information. I will need you to devise a defense."

~

"Who was that man," Daiki asked, hands behind his head as he walked beside his Dam.

Izuku licked his lips and looked down to his son, Hana holding his hand and humming happily. "He's an old friend."

Daiki looked up, dark eyes glimmering in curiosity. "Why is he here? How come we never met him if he's a friend?"

"I do not know why he's here. Your father brought him away quickly." Izuku opened the door to the study hall where his pup's instructors waited. "And... he lives in another Kingdom. It is very difficult for him to visit."

Hana released Izuku's hand, giggling as she ran to her instructor. Even as a three year old, she enjoys her studies. She doesn't do much. She more enjoys being able to do what her older brother does. Makes her feel more equal to him.

Daiki pursed his lips, more reluctant as his Dam had to lead him to his desk. "Is that why you were so surprised to see him? Well, you were sad, mom."

Izuku inhaled deeply, crouching beside him as Daiki sat. He stroked back his son's hair. "I'll tell you later, okay? For now, I need you to focus, okay? I need to check on your father."

"Will there be a fight?"

The Queen smiled. "I sure hope not. Focus on your studies, my love."

Izuku stood and left the room, glancing back to his pups once more before letting the door shut. His hands folded in front of him as he walked down the hall, heart racing in his chest. He feared the reason for Eijirou's visit. He hasn't spoken to him since he was pregnant with Hana. Just seen him in the village.

The doors to the council room are opened for him and he steps inside. "Kacchan..?"

The King stood at the end of the table, shoulders hunched forward and knuckles white in his grasp on the edge of the table. His brows were pinched tight as he looked to the map with the figurines placed in many positions.

Eijirou stood beside him, arms folded at he looked to the Queen. Hanta and Tenya stood to the opposite side, Hanta pale and Tenya as stoic as ever.

Izuku approached Katsuki from Tenya's and Hanta's side, avoiding interacting with Eijirou. He placed a hand on Katsuki's shoulder. "What is it? What is going on?"

Katsuki rolled his shoulders and stood fully, crossing his arms over his chest and narrowing his eyes more. "They're cowards. They want to strike in the night, kill me and the pups."

The Queen bit his lip and looked to the map. "When..? How soon can we expect them?"

"Two days at most," Katsuki muttered, running his hand down his face. "They approach as we speak."

"Two days should be plenty of time to prepare the palace, right?" Izuku licked his lips, looking to the board.

Tenya stepped up with a slight bow to the Queen. "Yes. However, the problem resides in attempting to figure out the type of attack we are preparing the palace for. Are we preparing for a simple assassination or a full-blown war effort?"

Izuku inhaled a shuddering breath. "And they want to kill the pups..?"

"Yes. Obliterate my blood-line." Katsuki flicked his cloak and sat back in his chair, thumb to his lip and glare trained to the table. "Take this Kingdom, wed you and take yours."

"Me?" Izuku's eyes flickered to Eijirou before he stepped to beside Katsuki. "Do you have any idea as to what we'll do..?"

Katsuki rubbed his chin. "My priority is keeping you and the pups safe. They are coming from the West, our blindspot. I'll be sending you South, back to Musutafu."

Izuku grit his teeth and took Katsuki's hand. "No! You aren't sending me away!"

Startled, the King looked up to his mate.

"Your majesty-" Eijirou stepped closer, one hand on the table and eyes wide.

"I am tired of running any time it gets dangerous! I am the Queen, this is my Kingdom as well. Just as you will protect me, I will protect you and our pups. Let me. I can fight, too." Izuku kept his voice and grip firm, shoulders squared.

Katsuki's eyes searched his face and he breathed deeply. Clearly, he doesn't like the idea. He glanced back to the table. "And the pups?"

Izuku relaxed his hold. "The tunnel in the hall has several hidden rooms. I could hide them in one with Ochako to watch them."

"Hanta as well. I want someone who can properly wield a sword to protect our pups." Katsuki waved to the Knight.

Hanta bowed slightly. Arm tucked under his chest as he stepped forward. "Sire, should I send word to our allies for assistance?"

Katsuki licked his lips. "There is no use. They wouldn't be here in time to intercept. They may receive word just as we are being attacked, if we are lucky. Besides, we do not know if the message could potentially be intercepted itself."

Eijirou sighed. "The League is everywhere. I am sure there may even be spies within these walls. We have to be careful and quiet in our preparations to defend."

Izuku finally allowed himself to look to the ex-Knight. "How do you know of this attack anyway?"

"Shigaraki, their leader, met with an informant. If I hadn't stepped out for a drink, I would never have heard them." Eijirou's soft red eyes met Izuku's as he spoke. "Your majesty, I must beg of you to leave the palace. You and the Prince and Princess should not be here, especially since we do not know the true scale of the attack-"

"Kirishima, it's been decided," Katsuki growled and pushed himself back to his feet. He stood in front of Izuku, the Queen looking away. "What my Queen does is none of your concern."

Hanta glanced between them, then up to Tenya. Tenya made brief eye contact, only giving his fellow Knight a shrug.

Eijirou swallowed, standing tall as he faced Katsuki. "You know of the dangers, keeping him and your heirs in the palace. They have to be protected."

"And they will be. Tenya-" Katsuki turned to his other two Knights, Tenya raising his chin. "Inform the guards. Set up a rotation schedule. We need guards resting frequently until the night of the attack and we'll need every single Guard in posts the night of the attack. Hanta, tomorrow I want you to evacuate the servants, and keep it quiet. Tomorrow, we will regroup and formulate a battle plan." The King grabbed Izuku's hand and pulled him along to the door. "And, Hanta." He turned as the doors opened, looking to the ravenette. "Escort Kirishima to the guest quarters."

Hanta saluted before the door could close to separate them.

~

Izuku wandered the hall late at night, unsettled by the lack of Guards patrolling the palace.

The flickering candles and the stars were the only light he had to brighten his path.

He simply couldn't sleep. He tossed and turned, but worry kept his mind buzzing. Fright and anxiety swirled in his gut, the entire situation making him uneasy.

"Your majesty?"

Izuku gasped and turned to face a dark hallway. Eijirou approached, holding a candle to light his path. "Eijirou..?"

The redhead sighed, stopping before he was an arms-length away. "Can't sleep?"

Only humming as his response, the Queen faced away and approached the open arches.

Eijirou frowned and followed. "You can speak to me, your majesty. I swear I have no intention to attempt anything inappropriate."

Izuku looked down, leaning onto the sill of the open window. "It isn't that, Eijirou."

"May I ask why, then?"

The greentte folded his arms, looking out to the lake beyond the palace. "You know... you can find someone new, Eijirou. Someone to make you happy, someone who doesn't have to run away with you to be with you."

Eijirou frown, setting his candle aside. "You think it's so easy to just forget about you?"

"It has been more than six years. I think it's time you settle and find a mate. Make a family-"

"I have a family." Eijirou moved closer, Izuku gasping and flinching back. "And I do not just mean you and Daiki. I mean Katsuki. I mean Denki, Hanta, Mina. Shoji, Tenya. All of them. Everyone here is my family."

Tears gathered in Izuku's eyes. He swallowed hard, lips trembling.

Eijirou looked back out the windows. "You do not know of all the nights I wished I could forget... Just for a little while. I'm miserable, Izuku. I'm alone, tired and broken. I wish more than anything to move on and find someone new. Find a mate and have a family. Live in peace. Yet, everytime I try, I can only see your face. I was not given closure. I was never able to truly say goodbye to you. And the fact that I share a son with you - it makes me all the more unwilling to let go. Izuku, I am going mad. You are my soul mate, and I am cursed to never be with you, to never move on, and to never love again."

The Queen sobbed softly and faced away from the Knight. He hugged himself tighter, brows pinched tightly together and teeth sinking into his lower lip. "I can't... I can't stay- I'm sorry-" Izuku stepped back before breaking into a run, needing to get as far from Eijirou as possible. He's betrayed Katsuki once. He can't do it again. If he stays by Eijirou, he'll never leave him.

~

"Hey, you."

Eijirou halted, brows furrowed as he turned to look at the voice behind him.

Daiki stood, unaccompanied with his arms crossed and eyes narrowed. He sure is adopting some of Katsuki's tendencies. "Is there really gonna be a fight?"

The redhead stared at the boy, confused and alarmed.

"Well?" Ahh. Very much Katsuki.

"Uhm, yeah..." Eijirou cleared his throat and crouched in front of the boy. "Yes, there will be. Where are your parents? Shouldn't someone be with you?"

"I sneak off everyday. I'm fine, I'm big." Daiki puffed up his chest more, raising his chin.

Eijirou raised a brow, smiling crookedly. "Oh, yeah. I see. You'll be King one day, right?"

The boy lit up, eyes practically sparkling. "Yes! As strong as my dad!"

It took a lot to not flinch harder than he did. His smile faltered, chest clenching. "Yes, he is very strong."

"I'll fight, too!"

Eijirou bit his lip and raised his hand. "Now, young Prince. Do not get too excited. A fight like this is not something to look forward to. You'll need to be protected."

Daiki pouted, cheeks reddening and brows pinching together. "I don't! I can fight! I am a warrior! Dad says so!"

"I am sure you are every bit a warrior as you say, my Prince," Eijirou started softly, swallowing hard as Daiki's smokey apple scent strengthened. "However, you should be with your sister. She needs to be protected, too."

The Prince pouted at that, anger slowly dying down. "She does. She can't fight."

Eijirou smiled and nodded. "So she needs her big brother to keep her safe." Daiki nodded. "Will you swear to stay with her tomorrow night?"

Sighing, Daiki's toe scuffed the floor. "Yeah, I will. Hey, everyone says you are a friend. If you are, why have I not seen you before? And why is my mom sad?"

"Oh..." Eijirou breathed deeply and rocked back, sitting down on the floor. "Well, uh... I was a friend. However, before you were born, I was sent away. I did something pretty bad, and your father was merciful. He should have killed me, but he let me live."

"So why are you back?"

"Because I heard bad people planning to come hurt your family." Eijirou crossed his legs, folding his hands in his lap. "I couldn't just let them. I had to come warn you guys."

Daiki pursed his lips, looking out the stone pillars to the busy courtyard. "What did you do..? If it was bad enough that dad should have killed you..."

Eijirou rolled his shoulders and leaned back. "I loved the Queen... very much."

He watched as Daiki's brows furrowed, nose scrunching. "My mom? You loved my mom?"

"Yes. I was so trusted by the King, and I still went behind his back to tell his mate that I loved him."

Daiki gasped, eyes widening. He reached for his hip, only to find his pretend sword was not there before pointing an angry finger. "You hurt my mom!"

"No, no!" Eijirou stiffened and raised his hands. "No, I would never. Not intentionally." Daiki held his aggressive stance firm, but didn't speak again. The ex-Knight inhaled deeply. "I never meant to hurt either of your parents, young Prince... I care too much about them both. Your father my greatest friend and your mother my greatest love... So when he sent me away after he found out how much I loved the Queen, I left. I didn't want to hurt him anymore than I had."

The Prince swallowed and lowered his hand. "But you came back... to protect mom and dad, even though dad could kill you for hurting him?"

Eijirou smiled carefully and nodded. "Yes, something like that."

Daiki crossed his arms, pooching his lips. "That's brave. Dumb, too."

Chuckling, the redhead rested back on his hands. "It is, isn't it?"

"Daiki!"

Both Prince and Knight looked up, the Queen rushing through the courtyard.

Izuku fell to his knees beside his pup, gently grabbing his arms to turn him. "Daiki, you should be in your studies! What are you doing out here?"

"Mom, did you love him, too?"

The Queen froze, staring at him. He glanced to Eijirou, who mouthed 'sorry.' "What do you mean?"

Daiki gestured to Eijirou. "He said he got sent away because he loved you. Did you love him back? No, right? Because you're still here. You love dad, right?"

Izuku shifted closer, cupping Daiki's face. "Of course I love your father. However, you need to go to your studies. This is nothing for you to worry about, my love." He stood and grabbed Daiki's hand, trying to gently tug him away.

However, Daiki stood firm. "Mom, answer me. Did you love him back?"

The Omega stared wide-eyed down to his son, lips parted and cheeks pale. He swallowed, fingers curling tighter around Daiki's hand. "Daiki, you are still very young. There are many things you will not understand for many years. I need to return you to your studies." He gave another tug and his son caved.

Daiki followed with a pout.

Eijirou stayed on the floor, watching after them. Before they turned the corner, Izuku glanced back at him. Eijirou's mouth ran dry, tears stinging his eyes.

"Hey, man."

Footsteps stopped behind him and he sighed. He leaned forward before pushing himself to his feet. "Denki..."

The blond stood, brows upturned. "Where the hell have you been? What happened to being dead? Why turn up now?"

"Denki, I really can't-"

"Come on! The King won't answer me! You've been just- you've been dead for over six years and now you just turn up and the entire palace is up in a fuss! The servants are being escorted out, we're being put on weird shifts, and-"

"Denki!" Eijirou grabbed the blond's shoulders, shaking him slightly to get him to halt. "Denki... I can't... I can't answer all of your questions right now. It's just- it is very complicated."

A frown soured Denki's face, fingers curled into tight fists. "I was your best friend, man... what the hell happened that day..? Why were we told you were dead?"

Eijirou bit his lip, relaxing his hold. "I was sent away, Denki... But that's all I'll say. Maybe... maybe later I can tell you everything, but right now... I have to help the King..." He gave Denki and gentle pat to his cheek before letting him go and turning away.

~

"Balls?"

Katsuki pinched the bridge of his nose. "Yes, Tenya. Balls. Non-suspicious signal. Whoever spots the enemy first drops the ball in warning. The other's around will see and someone would be able to travel within the palace to give warning to us inside. If there are merely a few, the Guard will play with the ball. Be it bounces it off the ground or the wall. If there are enough to warrant a battle on the palace grounds, they will drop it. Hanta, are all civilians out of the palace?"

Hanta saluted and bowed. "Yes, your majesty."

Tenya pushed up his glasses, brows furrowed. "I am still quite not understanding the 'ball' situation. Why not a code word of some kind? Or a whistle?"

"Too obvious, spectacles," the King grumbled, slouched in his seat. "Kaminari is currently passing the balls to the guards on first duty, and the rule is being explained to everyone. The balls will trade hands with each shift." He rubbed his chin, staring at the map on the table.

Eijirou sighed, arms folded and hip cocked as he rested his left foot. "I wish I knew how many are attacking. They did not specify. Only that there are others. I imagine it must be a larger accompaniment as they are taking all that time to travel, yet even with a small party they still want to remain unseen." Breathing deeply, he leaned over, splaying his hands across the surface of the table. "Alright, run me through the plan."

Katsuki sat up, elbows on the table with his hands pointed forward. "Guards will be set to their posts at sundown. The Prince and Princess will be escorted to the hidden room with Cheeks and Hanta by the Queen. Then the Queen will return to our room with me, and we will wait there for a Guard to come and say the intruders are here. There will be some guards with us, just in case. Once the intruders are spotted and everyone within are alerted, Tenya will lead group A to the Northern wall and Eijirou will lead group C to the Southern. Group B, lead by Mina, will remain in the courtyard, hidden by the stables. The wall there is weak and there are known points of entry. Likely why they chose the West."

"What about the East wall?"

Katsuki sighed. "Unless they come crawling out of the like, I don't see much of a point. However, we do have archers on the roof. They'll be able to see from all angles and have their own signal, which only Kaminari, Mina, and you two, Kirishima and Tenya, and the archers, know. Once the signal is given by the group closest to the attackers is given, it'll be open fire. Their shields will raise, they'll get into the wall somehow- don't ask how, just plan for them to make it through the wall. Once they're in, all groups except for the archers will flock towards the attack, including my own."

"You are going to encourage the Queen to fight if they break into our walls?" Eijirou's jaw tensed, brows pinched and eyes narrowed. "Your Majesty, he should not be fighting-"

The King snarled and slammed his fist down on the table as he shot to his feet. "Do not tell me what I can or cannot allow my mate to do!" His glare was sharp and deadly, scent thick and smokey. "You do not hold any power here, Eijirou. If my Queen wants to protect our home, I will not refuse him. He knows how to wield as sword as well as you or I."

"He wields no magic, your Majesty." Eijirou raised his chin. "He could be seriously injured in a battle with magic wielding opponents."

Huffing, Katsuki folded his arms, puffing up his chest. "The Queen is battle-smart. He can hold his own. Maybe you do not love him as you claim if you cannot see that."

Two collective gasps came from the other side of the table.

Eijirou's teeth grit painfully. Using that against him? Low blow. He can play that game, too. "I could say the same, allowing him into a situation he could become mortally wounded. I know the Queen can fight. I provided some of his lessons. However, he cannot defend himself against most forms of magic, My King. What if Shigaraki gets a hold of him? Turns his blade to dust? Or Dabi? Burns the ground he walks on? How will the Queen defend himself then?"

Growling lowly, the King's scent strengthened in threat, Eijirou remaining calm.

Hanta swallowed hard and stepped up. "We should begin preparations, your majesty..."

Katsuki flicked his cloak and stepped around the table, opposite of Eijirou. "If you are not gone once the battle is won, Eijirou... I'll fucking hang you myself." He grabbed the door from Hanta and slammed it behind him.

Eijirou growled and twisted on his heel, kicking the pillar. He inhaled deeply, hands in his hair as he glared out the window.

"You fell in love with the Queen..?"

The redhead turned quickly, Tenya staring at him wide-eyed. Eijirou dropped his arms and turned away, walking towards the door. "And I was loved in return." He grabbed the door and pulled it open, heading the opposite direction of Katsuki's scent.

~

Izuku stood in front of the mirror, brows pinched as he adjusted his gauntlets. The door opened behind him and he pivoted quickly.

Eijirou halted, hand on the door. He bowed, arm tucked under his chest. "Your majesty. I do not intend to intrude."

Sighing, the Queen turned and walked to the window. "Do you know where Katsuki went? He seemed upset, but he will not talk to me."

The ex-Knight pursed his lips and stepped inside. "He is ensuring everything goes to plan tonight. And he is upset with me."

"You?" Izuku faced him, fingers interlocking in front of his chest.

"Yes. He is angry I ask him to not allow you to fight."

Izuku blinked slowly, corners of his mouth turning down. "That is not your decision to make, Eijirou."

"I know." Eijirou strode across the room to the greenette. "Izuku, there will be so much powerful magic on the battlefield you will be unable to protect yourself from. It is also incredibly unwise to have both King and Queen on the same battlefield." He reached forward, grabbing Izuku's shoulders. "Please, Izuku. I beg of you, do not fight. At least don't go onto the battle field. Stay in the palace and fight anyone who manages to break through."

The Queen gently brushed Eijirou's hands off and stepped back. "I am going to fight to protect my home, my family, as well as my own life. I appreciate your concern for me, Eijirou." He reached up, cupping the Knight's face. "I pray when you return to your cabin, you will find someone who makes you happier than you have ever been with me. Someone deserving of you. And I hope that when I do tell Daiki you are his father, he'll want to meet you again. Have a relationship. You are so precious to me. So dear. I love you so much, Eijirou, but I cannot leave my life here. I cannot abandon my Kingdoms, my mate, nor my pups, because loving you isn't enough anymore. There is too much on the line." Izuku swallowed and licked his lips, tears in his eyes. He breathed deeply as Eijirou took his hands carefully, holding them to his chest. "I still dream of us... Moonlight walks, winter nights by the fire... I dream of reading our pups stories to sleep and of you teaching them to wield a blade. The future we used to talk about, only in my head. There are times I do regret not running away with you, but... I do know I would also have regret leaving Katsuki... I lose, not matter what I chose. I can only have one, Eijirou..."

Eijirou thumbed at a tear rolling down Izuku's cheek. "And I cannot have another, Izuku. I meant when I said you are my soulmate. You complete me."

Izuku smiled bitterly, leaning into his hand. "And I am bound to another. I am Queen, and I have two pups to consider. Daiki only knows of Katsuki as his father, he wouldn't understand being taken away and being asked to accept you. And Hana..." He inhaled through his nose and pulled away. He turned to the sheathed blades on the table and bound both to his belt. "Chosing between you two will kill me... so my circumstances chose for me. The well being of my pups. My commitments, responsibilities, my title... My marriage..." Izuku turned back, eyes glossy. "I wish with all my heart things were simpler... they just are not."

Eijirou swallowed, hands clenched in fists by his side. "Then I'll move... Farther away than Endeavor. You'll never have to see me again, if that makes staying here easier."

Izuku's lip trembled, stray tears slipping from his eyes. "I'll miss you every day and night, Eijirou... Like we said back in your cabin- in another life..."

~

"Alright, loves." Izuku crouched in front of his pups, their small hands in his. He smiled softly, kissing their noses. Hana giggled and squeaked, but Daiki still pouted. "I need you two to stay here with Ochako and Hanta. Just until your father and I come get you, okay?"

"I don't like it," Daiki murmured as his sister dashed to Ochako. "I don't wanna stay. I wanna fight, too."

Izuku sighed, stroking back Daiki's fluffy hair. "I know, Daiki. You are so strong and brave, but I need you here to help Hanta protect Hana, okay?"

Daiki pursed his lips and nodded, falling into his Dam's chest. Izuku kissed his head, holding him close. Swaying, the Queen looked to Hanta and Ochako.

Hanta nodded to him, Ochako holding the Princess.

Humming, Izuku pulled away and kissed his son's cheeks. "Be good for me, Daiki. I'll see you, soon."

~

Katsuki stared out the doors to the terrace as Izuku had entered their room. Several guards stood in their room, two at each set of doors, and three lining the far wall. Izuku approached Katsuki, placing his hand on his mate's arm. The King looked down to Izuku.

"I am nervous," Izuku admitted softly.

His mate turned to him, taking his hand. "Don't be. We'll defeat them, as we always do. Then we can just return to normal."

Izuku swallowed hard, searching Katsuki's eyes. They were soft, confident. Not a shred of doubt or insecurity. The greenette reached up, touching his cheek. "I love you, Kacchan..."

Katsuki chuckled and leaned in to place a tender kiss to his mate's lips. "I love you, too."

~

Eijirou clenched his fist tight around the ball in hand as he walked along the wall, gaze flicking through the trees. He stopped and looked back to the palace, able to see the King's terrace. The curtains were drawn shut, aiding the illusion of the King and Queen being fast asleep.

It would be best if he just disappeared. It wouldn't torture Izuku to see him anymore, and Katsuki would no longer be angered at his presence. He shouldn't have challenged Katsuki the way he did. It was stupid. So fucking stupid.

As soon as the fight is done, he's gone. He'll leave. They won't have to deal with him anymore.

"Captain."

Eijirou whipped around to face a saluting Guard. He raised a brow, gaze flicking to the right. Eijirou leaned over, teeth clenching as he spotted a Guard bouncing their ball off the wall. He then approached the edge of the wall, squinting as he looked into the trees.

Almost unnoticed in the darkness, but there was movement in the undergrowth. Silent footsteps and lights clicks of armor.

He walked with a gesture to the Guard. "Alert the others."

"Are you going to signal the archers?"

"So they can waste their arrows on the trees and shadows? I'll wait once they are more visible." Eijirou rolled his shoulders back, jogging down the steps. "Go, inside. I'll signal to the Northern wall."

The Guard nodded and saluted before rushing to the palace.

Eijirou continued through the grass, looking around. He spotted his pail and inhaled deeply. He kicked the pail, watching as it hit the wall, listening to the sound echo. He glanced to the wall as he heard the clinking silence. "Ah, fuck. I could wake Endeavor at this point." He shuffled back to the wall, waiting just a few heartbeats before the sounds were back.

A torch lit up on the Northern end of the wall and he hummed, glad they were able to hear the stupid signal. He looked back across the courtyard, watching Mina signal her group ahead.

Eijirou jogged back up on top of the wall, looking through the palace windows. Shadows moved inside, torches flickering along the walls.

It's time.

~

Izuku walked beside Katsuki, wringing his hands together. "How many do you think there are?"

"Not sure. Enough for someone to bounce the ball instead of drop it."

"Shouldn't we have at least an estimate before we jump in blind?"

Katsuki sighed as he halted, Izuku stopping with them. Shoji glanced to him, but he waved them ahead. "Izuku..."

"I'm sorry, I'm just- I'm worried and I am afraid. I'm afraid for you, for our people and for our pups. I'm afraid they've brought so much more than we can handle and I-"

"Izuku," Katsuki's voice was stern, grabbing Izuku's shoulders tightly. "We will be fine. We always are. Stop doubting me and stop doubting yourself.

The Queen teared up and swallowed. "I've never doubted you, Kacchan..."

Katsuki smiled and relaxed his hold. "That's a better attitude. Come on." He released his mate and ushered him forward.

Izuku laughed, letting himself be pushed along. "Alright, alright. Can we sleep the day away tomorrow?"

"If that is what you want, my Queen." Katsuki placed his hand on Izuku's lower back and kisses his cheek. "Have the pups in bed, not even get dressed properly... maybe even have the fire going."

Purring, Izuku leaned into his mate. "Sounds wonderful."

"I could have all the pastries you'd like brought to us and the pups. Just spoil you all as rotten as possible in one day." Katsuki took Izuku's hand to rub his wrist against his own neck, scenting him. "Not too much, or you'll get too damn demanding. Ask for days off all the time. Pups too. I'll be damned if they fall anymore behind on their studies."

Izuku smiled up at him, curling his finger to run along Katsuki's sharp jaw. "I don't deserve you."

The King leaned down to press a kiss to his lips. "Let's win this fight before talking about who deserves who," he chided with a playful flick to Izuku's forehead.

Both then snapped their heads up at screams and horse whinnies. Katsuki snarled, slamming his hand on the nearest windowsill as they neared to see what happened.

"It's started! They've set the stables on fire!"

~

Eijirou roared as he swung his blade, the clang ringing in his ears as he pushed the attacker back.

The enemy had loosed flaming arrows, setting the stables on fire with hopes of distracting the guards. Pretty smart.

He snarled and swiped his blade down, opponent stumbling forward. He leaned back to kick the other man in the stomach, just in time to arch his blade and parry a new attack.

Shoving his new fight companion aside, Eijirou whistled.

Arrows loosed from the roof of the palace, raining down on the opponents still outside the walls. Their men shouted and screamed, some were able to raise their shields.

Eijirou charged forward, skin hardening as his opponents struck at him. Some were shocked as their blades struck and were deflected only by his skin.

A roar, immediately followed by a rapid succession of explosions had Eijirou dropping to the ground on instinct, as well as many of the Crimson Knights in the vicinity. Their opponents were not so in tune. The redhead craned his neck to look back, King and Queen at the base of the stone staircase that lead to the large palace doors.

Katsuki wore a malicious grin on his face, eyes narrowed and glimmering in challenge. Izuku stood beside him, his dual swords drawn, brows furrowed in determination. Katsuki's palms smoked and he raised his chin.

"I am offended you thought you could take my life without a fight!"

Eijirou pushed himself back to his feet, recognizing the man with blue hair in the fray.

Tomura Shigaraki raised his own blade, face twisted in a sneer. "You'll be dead by midnight, King."

Katsuki barked in laughter, drawing his own blade. "I wouldn't be so sure!"

Eijirou yanked the shield off a nearby body and tossed, the movement so second-nature. So easy. Katsuki reached with practiced motion, catching the shield.

Their enemy raised his own sword, bellowing from his lungs- "kill the King!"

Without a word, Katsuki charged into the fray, expression manic with excitement.

Eijirou bounced on his toes before running in, tossing his blade to catch and hold the other way, parrying an attack. He spun and dropped, swiping out his attacker's legs. He snatched their axe, dropping once again with another round of explosions.

Fighting came back so natural. So easy. It's almost as if he hadn't taken a nearly seven year hiatus. Good thing the smithy kept him fit and strong.

"Duck!"

No second thoughts, Eijirou tucked his shoulder and dropped to the ground, rolling and landing on his knees, catching the shield thrown to him with Katsuki landing on his feet in front of him, the clanging of swords ringing through the air. Eijirou jumped back up, swinging his blade in as Katsuki twisted out of the way.

He kicked the attacker aside, just for another to come for him. "Damn! Like fucking rodents!"

Katsuki snorted, blade singing as it sliced along another before impaling a stomach. "Sewer rats! Just one after another!"

Their backs hit each other as they're both shoved into, Eijirou using his arm to block as he twisted his other to give Katsuki his shield, Katsuki shoving back another.

"Just like it used to be, hah?"

Eijirou grinned, glancing back over his shoulder. "You reading my mind?"

Snorting and grinning, Katsuki twisted and yanked Eijirou down, slicing his sword in a circle. Two heads and two bodies hit the ground separately. "Glad you kept up with your skill. Couldn't be making up for your slack while keeping up my own work."

Laughing, Eijirou kicked a shield and watched an opposing soldier topple over it. "I was the only one that could keep up with you on both the training grounds and the battle field! As if I would not hone my skills in the mountains!"

Katsuki grinned at him, both panting. "I guess that's a damn good reason not to just kill you here myself," he mused, arm up.

Instead of being shocked, hurt, offended, or any other reaction that would have made sense, Eijirou laughed and bumped his arm against Katsuki's. "Once the sun is up, you'll never have to see me again."

"Pity. You're a damn good Knight." Katsuki tossed his blade and caught it, nodding to Eijirou before hopping back and running into the fight once more.

Eijirou chuckled and shook his head before jogging after.

~

Kicking an abandoned helmet, Eijirou sniffed the air. Smokey and bloody.

"Katsuki!"

From other ends of the courtyard, Katsuki and Eijirou twisted quickly, Izuku on the staircase. His armor was bloodied, the exposed cloth torn. His cheeks were stained with soot and he still looked beautiful in the starlight. Focus, Eijirou! He's panicked!

"Intruders in the palace! They're searching for the pups!"

"Damnit!" Clutching his side, Katsuki bolted across the courtyard, Eijirou following suit.

Izuku turned, running back up the stairs and into the palace.

Both King and Knight followed the Queen, dashing through the palace halls. Eijirou glanced to Katsuki's side, wincing at the gash. "Damn-"

"I've had worse-"

"Here!" Izuku skidded into a hallway, gasping and blocking an attack with his dual swords.

Katsuki snarled and ran faster, unsheathing his blade.

Eijirou barreled into Izuku's attacker, both of them tumbling to the ground.

One was thrown over the wall, another impaled. One was slammed so hard into the wall he skull split and he instantly fell limp. Katsuki kicked one so hard he spat up blood and the last few ran.

All three panted heavily, Eijirou pushing himself up. He startled and froze at a hand held in front of him. He looked up the arm to find Katsuki's head attached. "Your majesty?"

"Take the help, damn it. You fought well."

Eijirou smiled and clasped his hand with Katsuki's. Both pulled, Eijirou stretching once he's on his feet. "Thank you, your majesty."

Izuku stepped between them, leaning onto Katsuki's chest. "They're gone... Oh, Gods, I just want to see my pups..."

Katsuki nodded, kissing his head. "We can do that."

Eijirou swallowed and stepped back, watching them walk down the hall. He supposes he shouldn't be hurt by Izuku not acknowledging him. Izuku shouldn't. Still, Eijirou can't help but long for him, chest tight and gut cold. He only turned away once they turned a corner, no longer in sight. He kicked a nearby helmet and walked the other way.

He rolled his shoulders and head, wincing as the joints along his neck popped in succession. He's going to be severely sore for days to come-

"Eijirou!?"

The redhead halted, brows furrowed as he looked over.

Izuku held the hilt of one of his blades as he jogged up, without Katsuki. "Eijirou, why are you by yourself? Where is Kacchan?"

Eijirou stared at the greenette, blinking a few times before glancing back over his shoulder. "You were just- you were with him?"

"No... no I wasn't. I've been in here. Last I saw, you two were still outside- where is the King, Eijirou!?" His voice got more eye pitched, eyes wide and brows upturned.

Startled, Eijirou froze up. Izuku is with Katsuki, but he is here. That can't be-

His own eyes widened and he stepped back. "They're going to the pups!"

Both broke into a run, Izuku leading Eijirou towards the hidden hall.

They skidded into a hallway, Izuku gasping as the spotted the King and imposter. "Kacchan!"

Katsuki and the Izuku look-a-like both halted, Katsuki shaking his head and looking between them and the person on his arm.

"Kacchan- that's not me!" Izuku ran forward, Eijirou hot on his heels. "They're trying to get you to take them to the pups!"

The King snarled and shoved away, palms popping.

Hissing, the imposter's eyes flashed yellow and they flicked out a dagger. They charged, driving the little blade into Katsuki.

"No!"

Katsuki gasped and stumbled, little explosions puffing out in his palms as he grasped the blade.

Eijirou roared, tackling the imposter to the ground.

Izuku grabbed onto Katsuki, checking his face and feeling around the fresh wound. "Oh my Gods, oh Gods- fuck- Kacchan!"

Katsuki's eyes fluttered, face twisted in a grimace as he stepped back, feet dragging and tripping until he hit the wall. "Fuck..."

"Fuck- Eijirou! Eijirou, he needs the doctor! He's bleeding bad! His breathing is strange!"

Eijirou grit his teeth, the imposter effectively unconscious so he was able to more easily bind their hands and feet so they couldn't escape. "I'm coming- fuck!" He stumbled, quickly catching the King as he slipped down the wall.

Katsuki grunted, hissing in pain as Eijirou pressed his hand to the bleeding wound. "Shit-"

"Damn it- is the doctor still here!?" Eijirou hoisted Katsuki's arm over his shoulders, Izuku doing the same.

"Yes- he's guarded in the infirmary!"

Eijirou adjusted his grip, jaw clenched as he and Izuku carried the King to the infirmary as fast as they could.

Katsuki's breaths were becoming shallow and wheezy, sweat spotting his forehead as his brows creased.

Izuku held his arm over his own shoulders, other hand on Katsuki's chest with tears rolling down his cheek. "It's okay, you'll be okay! We'll get you to the doctor and they'll take care of you! You'll be alright!"

The blond huffed and chuckled weakly. "You always talk too damn much..."

The Queen whimpered, holding Katsuki tighter. "And I won't stop until you are alright!"

Katsuki tilted over, Eijirou cursing at the weight shift, and rested his head on Izuku's. "Good... I love listening to you..."

Izuku's purr was broken and forced, tilting his head into Katsuki's. "I'll talk all you want. Just be okay."

The King chuckled, then coughed, entire body tensing. Eijirou winced at the blood smattering Katsuki's lip, Izuku gasping and sobbing.

Both hurried faster, Izuku screaming as they turned into the hall where many of the Guard waited. "The King is gravely injured! Make way!"

Their Guard scattered out of the way, Katsuki wheezing as he tripped over nothing.

Just before the door to the infirmary, Katsuki let go of Izuku to grab the collar of Eijirou's shirt, yanking them both to a stop. In a low, weak growl, Izuku grabbing onto his arm and tugging towards the infirmary, Katsuki spoke to Eijirou. "Protect them... with your fucking life..."

Eijirou swallowed hard, jaw tensing as Izuku cried. "No! Don't you talk like that! Get in here, now!" Izuku yanked on Katsuki, pulling the King inside as a bed was cleared for him.

Katsuki stumbled and gasped for breath, clutching his side. He kept his glare on Eijirou, tears in his burning crimson eyes. "Don't leave them... don't betray me again..."

The Knight stood in the door way, shaking and pale. His chest tightened, stomach cold as he watched both King and Queen being hidden behind a white curtain with a nurse and doctor.

~

Izuku stepped out of the infirmary some time later. He looked up to Eijirou, then to the surrounding Guard and Knights. "The King rests for now. The doctor has stopped the bleeding." A collective sigh ran through the hallway as Izuku approached Eijirou, grabbing his arm. "Is the enemy gone?"

Eijirou bowed his head. "Yes. Fires are put out, all injuries tended to, and any living left behind are locked in the jail on the east wall."

Nodding, Izuku pulled the redhead with him. "The pups should be getting to bed now. It is well passed midnight..."

The Knight nodded, looking down to the Queen as they walked. He still wore his tattered armor, eyes red with tears and cheeks pale with fret. His lips stayed in a pressed line, fingers trembling as he fidgeted.

Eijirou took his hands and squeezed. Izuku jumped, startled, and looked up to him quickly. "He'll be okay."

More tears gathered in Izuku's eyes, his lip quivering. "Yes... He'll be alright."

The rest of the walk towards the hidden hall was quiet, Izuku's grip on Eijirou tight and trembling.

Izuku hesitated at the spots of blood spatter, swallowing hard, before taking a few more steps to move aside a tapestry. He stepped into the opening, leading Eijirou inside. Eijirou held his hand, head low as the crept through the narrow hall.

After a few moments, the opening widened and separated into two halls. Izuku lead Eijirou down the right hallway, forcing his scent down to a muted tone. He doesn't want his pups to sense his distress.

Finally, after several more twists and turns, Izuku turned to one of the doors and knocked slowly. A few more seconds and Eijirou heard the click of the door unlocking from inside. The door creaked as it opened, Hanta standing with his hand on his blade.

"Your Majesty." Hanta bowed and stepped out of the way.

"Mom!"

Both pups squealed, leaving the haidmaiden as their dam smiled and fell to his knees, opening his arms for them.

Daiki and Hana fell into him, Hana crying and Daiki messily scenting him. Izuku purred weakly, nuzzling them and holding both close. "My pups... it is well passed time for bed. Would you two like to sleep in my room tonight?"

"Yes! Yes, please!" Hana grinned brightly, grabbing Izuku's cheeks.

"Are you and dad going to read to us again," Daiki asked softly, resting his head on Izuku's shoulder. Hana gasped and bounced excitedly, agreeing with her brother.

Izuku swallowed hard, blinking back tears. "I'm sorry, pups. Your father was hurt really bad today... he's resting in the infirmary."

Eijirou looked away, both pups immediately tearing up in freight.

"Is he going to die!?"

"No, daddy can't die! Bedtime stories! I wanna snuggle my daddy!"

"Hey, hey," Izuku shushed to his pups, pulling them both back into his chest. He strengthened his scent to comfort them, kissing their heads and shutting his eyes tightly to hide his own tears. "The doctor is working very hard to make sure he'll be okay, alright? Come, we need to get you two to bed. It is already much to late for you two to be awake." He pulled away, kissing their cheeks before standing with them and taking their little hands.

Ochako grabbed their things, hurrying after, Hanta stepping up beside Eijirou. He placed a hand on the redhead's shoulder, brows upturned in worry.

Eijirou licked and pursed his lips, watching them walk ahead. "He is not well, Hanta... The King lost a lot of blood. He is sure he'll die tonight. He told me to protect them..."

Hanta's jaw tightened. "It is serious then... typically he says he's had worse..."

"Not worse than this..."

The walk to the King's and Queen's room was quiet, even the pups. Izuku ushered them to the large bed, Ochako rushing to their rooms to get their night gowns. Hanta stood by the door, Eijirou watching Izuku interact with the pups.

"Did you fight, too..?" Daiki was carefully lain back on the bed as he spoke, looking up to his dam with large eyes.

Izuku smiled and stroked his hair back. "I did. I fought a lot of villains."

"Were you scared?" Hana bounced on the bed, pulling the covers over her lap.

Chuckling, the Queen scooted up more on the bed and started carefully undoing the braids in her hair. "A little bit. Everyone is always a little bit scared when they're fighting."

Daiki pursed his lips. "Even dad?"

Izuku's smile faltered and he tucked a lock of curly hair behind Daiki's ear. "Sometimes. Yes, he does get scared. Not for himself, but for the people he loves. He was scared you two could be hurt. He was scared because I was fighting, too. Your dad didn't want me hurt either."

The Prince stared at his dam, soaking in his words, then looked to Eijirou. The Knight was startled by the attention turned to him so suddenly and straightened his posture.

"What about you, huh? Were you scared?"

Izuku, also startled, hushed Daiki and apologetically turned to Eijirou. Hana tilted her head, watching him curiously.

Eijirou swallowed and slanted his head in a hesitant nod. "I was."

"What for?"

Sighing, he stepped up to the edge of the bed. "As you know, I care about your parents. I was scared I wouldn't get here in time to warn them about the attack. Worried they wouldn't hear me if I was... worried that it wouldn't matter because they'd end up hurt anyway... I was worried about you two as well. Despite not living in your Kingdom anymore, you two are still my Prince and Princess." He placed his fist to his chest and gave a little bow.

Hana giggled and stood, stumbling as she curtsied. Eijirou smiled at the adorable attempt, taking her hand as she held it to him and kissed her knuckles.

Izuku hummed and gently pulled Hana into his lap. He looked up as Ochako came back with the night gowns and stood, setting Hana down.

As Ochako changed the pups, Eijirou pulled Izuku to the door. "Stay with Katsuki."

Green eyes widened as they looked up to him. "But, my pups-"

"We'll stay here with them." Eijirou opened the door and nodded to Hanta. "He'll stay by the door, I'll stay by the terrace. Ochako will stay with the Prince and Princess. They'll be safe. You should be with the King."

Izuku inhaled deeply, looking to Hana and Daiki as they're guided back onto the bed. "Okay... thank you, Eijirou..." He placed his hand on the Knight's arm, making his way back to the bed. He kissed each pup and wished them goodnight before hesitating as he left the room.

The halls had finally emptied, so the night was finally quiet. He carefully pushed open the infirmary door, gulping and glancing to all the white sheets drawn between each of the beds where terribly injured Guard and Knights rested. Izuku went to the last sheet and moved it aside.

Katsuki lay still, eyes closed, chest falling and rising slowly. Izuku pulled the nearby chair closer and sat quietly, taking his mate's hand. He startled as Katsuki's fingers curled around his.

"I wondered where you went to," Katsuki rasped, eyes cracking open.

"Kacchan..." Izuku leaned over, petting his hair back. "You should be resting..."

The King coughed, chest rattling and his brows pinching. He inhaled deeply, breath wheezing. Izuku cringed at the terrible sound. "Pups..?"

Izuku sighed, raising his hand to his lips. "In our room... they have Ochako, Hanta and Eijirou with them... They're alright. Worried about you..."

Katsuki smiled, eyes closing. "I love you, you know..."

The greenette teared up once more, gripping Katsuki's hand tighter. "Don't say that like you're going to die, Kacchan!" His mate only hummed, head tilting. Izuku sniffed and bit his lip. "I love you, too... I love you so much, Kacchan, and so do our pups. Please don't leave us..."

Smiling, Katsuki lifted his finger to brush along Izuku's cheek. He didn't speak again, though, before he fell back asleep.

~

Eijirou sat slumped in the chair as he stared out the terrace doors. The sun barely skimmed the horizon now and they were workers in the Courtyard below, cleaning up bodies and debris. The sky was a bright azure, a few clouds spotting the expanse.

He glanced back to the pups curled up with Ochako, all three fast asleep.

Sighing, he pushed himself to his feet. He made it was across the room as quietly as he could with his boots, he armor long-since shed. He cracked open the door, almost startled to see Hanta sitting against the wall, dead-asleep.

"It's okay."

Eijirou snapped his head to look to Denki and Mina, who smiled and waved.

"He fell asleep after we got here." Denki gave a small lopsided smile and a thumbs up.

Careful to not wake the three inside, nor the Knight by the door, Eijirou pushed the door open more to get out then closed it as if it would shatter. "I'm going to check on the King and Queen. I should return, soon."

Both nodded before returning to a quiet conversation.

Eijirou stretched his arms above his head as he walked down the hallways, glancing around. The palace hadn't really changed since he had left so long ago.

Katsuki's words haunted him, though...

"Don't betray me again..."

Eijirou swallowed hard and inhaled deeply, rolling his shoulders back. As if he could betray him again. He still felt guilty for the first time he did.

His hand hesitated in front of the door. He swore to Katsuki that he'd never have to see him again after sunrise. It's sunrise now. Will Katsuki be furious he's still here? Or grateful for staying to watch over the pups and ensure their safety while he is bedbound..?

He'll just go in and say his goodbye to both of them. Wish them well. Take in Izuku's appearance once more to memorize before never seeing him again... even in passing.

Eijirou pushed open the door. Insense burned in the room and he winced when he saw why. Three men were covered in white sheets behind their curtains as he passed. Only two were still alive, and barely. The doctor was no where to be seen and neither were any of his nurses. He grit his teeth as he grasped Katsuki's curtain and moved it enough for him to duck inside.

Izuku sat in the chair beside the bed, back facing Eijirou with the pale orange light falling onto his head. He held Katsuki's hand while also gently carding his fingers through Katsuki's hair.

The King was terribly pale, likely due to his blood loss, but looked incredibly peaceful.

"How is he..?" Eijirou stepped around to the other side of the bed.

Izuku had glanced up to Eijirou, the Knight rattled as he saw his eyes and cheeks red, tearstains long-dried. Eijirou's chest tightened, and not in a good way. Izuku swallowed and released a shakey exhale as he looked back to his mate. "He stopped breathing..."

Eijirou felt a shock up his spine before he froze, eyes blowing wide. He gasped and leapt closer to the bed, hands to Katsuki's chest. "How long hasn't he been breathing-"

"Leave him!" Izuku cried as he shoved Eijirou's hands away, fresh tears spilling from his eyes. He sobbed and leaned over Katsuki, cupping his cheeks.

The Knight shook, breath coming quick and shallow. "The- The doctor- where's the doctor-"

"He knows," Izuku hiccuped, brushing his thumbs beneath Katsuki's eyes. "He was here... they did all they could... but he was gone..." The Queen sniffled and rested his head on his mate's chest. "He was gone before the sunrise..."

Eijirou clutched his chest and fell back against the wall. He slid down until he sat on the cold stone floor, mouth dry.

The Queen kept with his ministrations, petting Katsuki's hair, caressing his cheek. "He's so cold... I've never felt him so cold... Kacchan was always so warm..."

Eijirou's hands tangled in his hair, eyes burning with his own tears. "Izuku..."

"How do I tell the pups, Eijirou..? They're barely old enough to understand... how can I live without him? I've had him my entire life, Eijirou. He was always right there, and now he's..." Izuku shuddered as he inhaled, just staring at Katsuki's face. "He promised to do so many things... that today we could just lay with our pups... He promised to be there when I told Daiki, he promised to ride with Daiki and Hana on their first battles. He promised Daiki he would teach him to hunt and swore to Hana he'd teach her to ride..."

Eyes pinching shut, Eijirou slumped forward and dropped his head.

"You can't leave me, Eijirou..." The Knight looked back up, hollow green eyes finally on him. "Please don't leave..." His voice broke, lip wobbling.

Eijirou pushed himself to his knees, kneeling beside the infirmary bed and took Izuku's hand. Their hands lay across Katsuki's unmoving chest and he almost winced.

"He told you to stay with us," Izuku continued in a whimper. "He- he said-"

"To protect you three." Eijirou looked to Katsuki and sighed. "I intend to, Izuku. I could never betray him again..."

With another soft, broken sob, Izuku's eyes fell shut, head dropping onto Katsuki's shoulder. His distress and sorrow filled the room, Eijirou finally still.

He reached up, swallowing the lump in his throat as he covered Katsuki's closed eyes. "Safe travels to you, old friend..."

~

The grieving period for a lost royal is three to fourteen days, depending on the Kingdom. The Crimson Kingdom's grief period lasts nine days.

Eijirou was never taught why nine specifically. However, the time allowed for the people of the Kingdom to come pay their own respects to their fallen King. During this time, Izuku and the pups only wore black. That is also traditional during the grief period.

Daiki was stoic during this period. Always drifting behind his Dam, quiet and head low, expressionless. For such a young pup, he hides his despair well. Still, Eijirou hears him cry at night when guarding their door.

Hana cries constantly, still being such a young pup, unable to understand why Katsuki can't wake up. She's tried waking him herself the first few times she saw him. Katsuki's glass coffin had to be covered so Hana could no longer see him after the third attempt to wake him.

Eijirou had to bandage the scratches in his arms from the first time he pried her off her father. Her nails dug deep and desperate as she wailed and thrashed, begging for Katsuki to just hold her.

Finally, on the last day, Katsuki was carried to the mountains beyond the lake behind the palace. The snow lay thick in the mountains this time of years.

Izuku had his pups gathered at his legs underneath his cloak to shield them from the wind and prevent them from watching as Katsuki is lifted oh-so carefully and lain to rest on the stacked wood. Eijirou held his own bow as he raised Izuku's.

The bow was white and ornamental, shimmering with sapphires and diamonds, crested with vines and golden leaves. Izuku took the decorated bow and the wrapped arrow Denki held for him.

Once snapped into place, Izuku raised his chin and bow, drawing the string back slowly. Once ready, Tenya held his torch to the arrow, everyone watching the tip burst with orange flames.

Inhaling deeply, teary eyes trained on his mate, Izuku loosed his arrow.

Stuck in the lumber, the arrow began to light the kindling aflame.

"Archers!" Eijirou raised his own bow and arrow, shouting to be heard above the winds. The clicks of arrows snapping to bowstring cut through the air. "Light!" Each arrow head lit up, coloring the gray surroundings. "Aim!" Lift, point, stare. Stare at one of the people you cared most about. Who lead you and stood beside you, rather than pawned you from his throne. Who laughed with you and pushed you to be your best self. "Fire!"

Each arrow loosed simultaneously, each catching in the lumber, fire growing by the second.

Tears stung Eijirou's eyes as he watched the flames engulf the stacked lumber and the man lain so carefully on top.

Nine days was not long enough.

~

"I hereby name you Regent, ruling in place until Prince Daiki of the Crimson Kingdom is of age to claim his throne." The Priest rested the small, decorative crown on Izuku's head, Izuku bowed before him.

The throne room was quiet and still as Izuku rose, the ceremony less grand than that of a coronation. As the previous Queen and Dam to the next King, Izuku is named Regent to rule in Katsuki's stead. Just until Daiki can take his place.

All of the Crimson Kingdom now looks to Izuku alone to lead them.

Only their allied Kingdom's Nobles came to witness Izuku's Regency being placed. This is where he is reunited with his dear friend, Prince Shouto of Endeavor.

The younger approached the Regent and bowed after the ceremony. "Your Highness. I am sorry for your loss. I wish there was more I could help you with."

Izuku offered a small smile as they began to walk through the courtyard. "Oh, I am grateful to all the help you have already provided my Kingdom with. The medicine and food was already more than I could have asked for."

Shouto hummed softly. "How are the Prince and Princess..?" He asked carefully, brows upturned.

Sighing, Izuku entwined his fingers. "Neither are well... they miss their Father. To be honest, I am hardly sure how I am coping. Most nights, I... I feel so numb, yet everything hurts. Hana just asks for him all day and Daiki hardly speaks... I am doing my best to care for them, but..."

"You are still grieving, yourself." Shouto folded his hands behind his back. "Do you have help?"

"Of course." Izuku's gaze fell to the floor as he walked beside the Prince. "Ochako is always helping... Eijirou hasn't left our sides. Sometimes I wonder if he ever sleeps himself..."

"Oh, yes. The Knight." The Prince nodded, looking ahead. "He is staying..?"

Izuku inhaled deeply, halting in his steps. "It was Katsuki's dying wish that he stay and protect us..."

"Wish or command?"

The Regent looked to the Prince, who had a slight playful glint in his eyes. Izuku finally smiled. A real smile, his shoulders easing. "Command. Katsuki was never one for wishes. And Eijirou is ever-so loyal."

Shouto chuckled softly and they continued walking.

"I will support you to my best abilities," Shouto promised, watching Izuku. "However, my dear father is withholding the crown from me, so there is only so much I am capable of."

Izuku hummed, stopping once again. Confused, Shouto halted and faced him. "Stay a while longer, Shouto. Get some more time away. I'll make up an excuse and apologize."

"You do not have to-"

"I want to." Izuku raised his hand and waved, turning back towards the palace. "Besides, I do believe Hanta had missed you."

The Prince froze solid, eyes wide. "How did..?"

Izuku's smile widened as he turned back to the Prince. "He gets a little brighter every time he visits you, my Prince. I am proud, by the way... that you were finally able to confess."

A light blush dusted Shouto's cheeks as he lowered his head. "I hate that we have to be in secret..."

"But you are together... and he makes you happy... You make him happy as well." Izuku continued on his way to the palace. "So stay! Enjoy as much time with him as possible!"

~

"Mom?"

Izuku paused in the doorway of Daiki's bedroom, Eijirou holding the door. He turned, looking back to his son. "Yes..?"

Daiki sniffed and sat up, rubbing his nose. "What if I grow up to be a person dad wouldn't like..?"

"Oh, Daiki..." Izuku rushed back to his son and sat beside him. Daiki grabbed onto his Dam tightly as his head is kissed. "That just simply is not possible..."

The boy whimpered, curling up. Izuku swayed with him, rubbing his back. Tears stung his own eyes as he looked to Eijirou. The redhead stood in the same spot as before, gaze downcast.

Izuku gently pulled Daiki off of himself and lay him back, tucking him in once more. "Your father loved you so very much... he's been proud of you since the day you were born. I do not believe for a second he could have ever disliked who you will grow to be."

Daiki curled his fingers into his blankets. "I want to be like him when I'm grown, mom. I want to be brave and strong."

Humming, Izuku leaned over and placed a kissed to Daiki's forehead. "You already are, my lovely boy. Now, get your sleep. I will see you in the morning."

They bid goodnight once more before Izuku finally left, Eijirou closing Daiki's bedroom door and following the Regent.

The two walked in silence to Izuku's room, Izuku running his thumb over his knuckles to keep himself grounded. He couldn't allow himself to break down crying once again in the hallway. Just a few moments more.

"He'll grow the be quite the King, your Majesty."

Izuku halted, breath catching. He turned to look back at Eijirou.

The Knight sighed, carding his fingers through his hair. "You have done an amazing job raising those two pups... you and the King both... They'll both become strong, respectable rulers one day."

Nodding, Izuku's gaze fell to the floor. "Yes. I know they will..."

"You know... you never have to marry again." Eijirou stepped closer, placing a hand on Izuku's arm. "You are Regent now. That role does not require a mate. You have two perfectly healthy heirs. One for your home country, Musutafu, and one for Katsuki's as well. There is no reason to force you to ever have a mate again. You never have to feel like you will need to replace Katsuki..."

Tearing up more, Izuku continued to his room briskly, Eijirou sighing as he followed. Izuku opened his own door, then paused. He inhaled and looked back to Eijirou. "I'll never replace Katsuki. He cannot be. I know I will never have to find a suitable mate again, but... Maybe someday we can have our dream, Eijirou..."

Eijirou's expression softened as he reached up, brushing his knuckles over Izuku's cheek. "You don't have to worry about that right now."

"I know." The greenette took Eijirou's hand. "And I won't be able to for a while. I did still love Katsuki very much, and I still need time... I'm not sure how much time, but I'm hopeful for someday."

Smiling, Eijirou raised Izuku's hand and kissed his knuckles. "I've waited so many years... I can wait a few more if I have to. For now, get your rest. Goodnight, your majesty."

"We are alone, Eijirou..."

A soft chuckle, and another kiss to the greenette's cheek. "I will stand outside your door, Izuku. Call for me if you need anything."

Izuku nodded, hand slipping from Eijirou's fingers as he stepped into his bedroom. "Goodnight, Eijirou."

~

"Mom, I'm so bored!" Daiki clung to Izuku's cape as he whined, pouted as his Dam swatted at his hands pulled on his shoulders to make him stands straight.

"You can go play, soon. We have to congratulate the King first." Izuku brushed down Daiki's decorative coat and fixed his hair. "We're next. Remember to bow as you have been taught."

Sighing, Daiki rolled his shoulders back, pout still present.

Izuku smiled, taking his hand before straightening up himself.

Once the noble in front of them decended the steps to the left of them, Izuku lead Daiki up and curtsied. He glanced to ensure Daiki had bowed properly.

"Congratulations, your majesty," Izuku mused with a smile, folding his hands in front of himself as he looked to Shouto.

"Oh, Congratulations." Daiki bowed again, much quicker, and nearly stumbled over himself.

Shouto chuckled and crouched, taking Daiki's hand. "I am thrilled to one day work with you, young prince."

Daiki's cheeks turned bright red, flustered, then he grinned and nodded quickly.

With a fond smile, Shouto ruffled the Prince's hair and stood back up. "And you, Regent. Thank you for attending my coronation."

Izuku bowed his head and smiled in return. "I wouldn't have dared to miss this. You are a dear friend to myself and Daiki."

"Don't forget Hana," Shouto sang softly. "Where is she?"

"Hanta took her to visit the horses. She couldn't sit still for the entirety of the ceremony." Izuku combed his fingers through Daiki's hair, letting the boy lean against him.

"I'll have to bid her farewell before the end of the day." Shouto backed again towards his throne, then bowed towards Daiki. "I will see you again soon, young Prince."

"When?" Daiki tilted his head, eyes big.

Both Shouto and Izuku chuckled. "The Summer Solstice Ball, young Prince. That's next month, is it not?"

"Oh!" The little Prince grinned and bounced on his toes. "See you soon, then!"

Izuku shook his head, then curtsied once more, Daiki bowing in suit. "Congratulations again, your Majesty. We'll leave you to the rest of your guests." He leaned down to take Daiki's hand and gently tugged him along. They decended the stairs, Izuku looking up from Daiki to see Eijirou waiting patiently for them.

The Knight stood quietly, legs braced apart, hands clasped behind his back. He had new scars, his shoulders had broadened, arms thicker with muscle. His hair was longer, too, tied and tossed over his shoulder, some shorter strands framing his face.

Izuku tilted his head as they passed, Eijirou turning and following close behind as they made their way to the stables.

~

"Pups are asleep," Izuku sighed softly, unclasping his cloak from his neck and dropping it inside his tent.

Eijirou nodded, standing from his spot by the fire. "Most everyone has retired for the night. Tenya and Denki are in town, refilling their flasks."

Izuku hummed, rubbing his arms.

It's been more than a year now, since the attack that killed Katsuki. Nineteen months. Eijirou has stuck dutifully by their sides, and still no one truly knows the exact reason behind Eijirou's banishment so many years ago.

"Izuku?"

Blinking, the Regent looked back up to the Knight. "Sorry. Lost in thought."

Eijirou chuckled softly, gaze gentle as he brushed a stray lock of hair out of Izuku's face. "Maybe you should get to sleep as well, your Grace."

Huffing and blushing, Izuku swatted his hand away and turned towards his tent, flipping the opening to step inside. He unclasped the cape from his waist and let it fall before he stopped. He looked to the makeshift bed of pelts on the floor. He kept making it far too big for just himself...

Izuku turned back to the front of the tent and lifted the flap. "Eijirou..?"

The Knight hummed in question, already back by the fire, prodding at it with a long stick to move the larger log over.

"Will you stay with me tonight..?"

Izuku watched as all the muscles up Eijirou's back tensed, fingers curled around the stick in a deathly grip. He bit his lip and lowered his head, slowly beginning to pull the tent closed. "Sorry... sorry, I didn't mean to-"

"Are you sure..?"

Their eyes met, vermillion eyes hesitant and searching.

Inhaling deeply, Izuku reached his hand out.

Eijirou set the prodding stick aside and stepped over, taking the Regent's hand. He allowed himself to be guided inside the tent, ducking his head to enter.

Izuku slid his free hand up from his chest to his neck, tangling his fingers in Eijirou's hair to guide him into a sweet, careful kiss. Eijirou's hand fell to Izuku's waist, drawing him closer.

Pulling away from the kiss, fingers entwining with their clasped hands, a soft blush dusted Izuku's cheeks. "I can't remember the last time I kissed you..."

Smiling, Eijirou's thumb rubbed up and down Izuku's side. "I do... The moon was high, we were behind the palace... You were talking about the constellations. I was tired and wanted a moment of quiet, so I kissed you."

Izuku's blush darkened, grip on Eijirou tightening in embarrassment. "You kissed me to silence me!?"

Laughing, Eijirou pulled the shorter towards the bed of pelts. "Perhaps, but I wanted only a moment of quiet with you. But by the Gods, you were so adorable, rambling on about all you had read about the constellations that day."

The greenette pouted, only watching as Eijirou sat on the bed, their hands still clutching the other. The redhead smiled reassuringly up at him, thumb running over Izuku's knuckles.

Izuku relaxed and knelt before him. He leaned closer, placing his hand on Eijirou's cheek as he kissed him once more. The kiss started as the first. Slow and careful. Eijirou drew him nearer and the kiss deepened. Izuku shifted closer until he straddled the Knight, both his hands tangling in Eijirou's hair.

Eijirou sucked in a quick breath as he pulled back. "Izuku..."

"What is it..?" Izuku sat back, brows upturned in worry.

The Knight held Izuku's hips, biting his lip. "If you don't want to go further, we need to stop now... Just lay down..."

Izuku searched the Knight's face, hands settling on his shoulders. He hummed and leaned forward, pressing chest-to-chest. "I've missed you, Eijirou..."

Swallowing hard, Eijirou's hands slipped to the small of Izuku's back, soaking in the Omega's warmth. "Is this okay..?"

"Yes, Eijirou..."

With little more hesitancy, Eijirou kissed him once more. Starting slow, getting deeper, eager, desperate.

Izuku whimpered, pulling on Eijirou's tunic, gasping as the Knight growled into his neck. Eijirou reached back and yanked on Izuku's corset, snapping the threading. Yanking on clothes and grasping at each other as if they'd vanish, they fell into a heap on the bedding, grinding, searching, reexploring.

The Regent bit into his lip, eyes shut tight as calloused fingers pressed inside him. Izuku's head fell back onto the bedding, panting softly. Eijirou's lips trailed his neck and chest, murmuring softly.

"Eijirou..." Izuku moaned, the Knight lifting himself up to kiss him once more.

"Quiet, your Grace..." He curled his fingers and stroked deeply, causing the smaller to squeak and cling more tightly to him. "Don't want to alarm the others..."

With a third finger, Izuku was biting his lip, struggling to keep his voice contained.

Once Eijirou felt Izuku was ready, he pulled his fingers away, his lover shuddering beneath him. He guided Izuku's legs to wrap around himself and braced his forearms beside Izuku's head. He admired the greenette beneath him - flushed red cheeks, hazy and half-lidded eyes, parted and swollen lips, the curls framing his face beginning to stick to his skin.

He rested his forehead on Izuku's, both gasping as they finally connected. Sealed and slotted together for the first time in so many years. Izuku's hands trembled in Eijirou's hair, eyes shut. His thighs quivered, toes curled.

"Do you need a moment more..?" Eijirou tilted his head, their cheeks rubbing affectionately.

Izuku shook his head, one hand sliding down Eijirou's back. "I need you to love me..."

Carefully, cautiously, the Knight rocked his hips. Both panted softly, Izuku biting back little moans and whimpers.

"Eiji," Izuku stuttered, looking to the ceiling of the tent.

"Yes..?" Eijirou placed a few kisses along Izuku's jaw, keeping his movements slow and steady.

"I want to see the cabin again..."

Pausing, Eijirou lifted himself up to look down at the greenette. Tears were in his viridian eyes, though he wasn't near sorrowful. Humming and smiling, Eijirou took one of Izuku's hands and kissed him deeply. "Of course, my love... I'll bring you in the morning..."

~

The cabin was fairly musty, as it had been unoccupied for more than a year. Nearly two. Still, it was perfect as the midday sunrays fell onto Izuku's curls through the crack of the curtains. Eijirou traced his fingers down Izuku's cheek as the Omega slept soundly, thumbing gently at the fresh mark on his neck. He hadn't meant to mark Izuku so soon, but he now had a mark of his own, the ache long-gone.

Eijirou sighed and pressed his lips to Izuku's forehead. They had promised their party they wouldn't be away for long. He shouldn't have let Izuku sleep.

Izuku whined softly as he was woken, then smiled. "Eiji..."

"Time to return, Izuku," the Knight murmured, taking the Regent's hand and entwining their fingers. "We need to return home..."

~

Daiki whistled as he strut down the hallway, dipping his head as he passed servants, Guards and Knights alike. At freshly sixteen, he is being sent of his first solo attendance. He'll only be assisting Tenya instead of doing the counseling himself, but it'll be a good experience for him to learn his duties as King.

"Hey, where are you headed!?" Hana jogged up behind him, bumping playfully into his side.

The Prince huffed and pushed back before flicking her forehead. Then he spotted their little brother, Kenji. He ruffled the boy's red hair and grinned as he pouted and swatted at him. "Just thinking about what all I'll get to do during my attendance. What sort of trade we'll be discussing. Terms of treaty renewal. What all I'll get to learn. There's a lot that will go into it, ya' know?"

Kenji grabbed his brother's hand. "Can you get me a present?"

"Ooh, presents! Bring back presents!" Hana laughed, throwing her arms around her elder brother.

"Alright, alright!" Daiki shoved off his sister, the blond squealing in delight, then squeezed Kenji's little hand. The boy grinned up at him. "I'll get you each a present, okay?"

The little redhead nodded quickly, his scraggly hair bouncing.

Daiki chuckled and spun the boy playfully before letting him go. "I need to find mom and Eijirou. You two need to return to your studies."

While Hana spun on her heel, ready to get back to her tutors, Kenji whined and pouted, dragging his feet.

Grinning and whistling once more, Daiki continued on his way. Quieting to a hum, Daiki clasped his hands behind his head, turning down the hall to the study. He tilted his head as he heard his Dam's voice, fretful as he spoke to Eijirou.

"That is a horrible idea, and you know it."

Daiki silenced himself, standing beside the door and leaning closer.

"We agreed we would tell him on his sixteenth birthday, Izuku-"

"And he is leaving at mid-day for his first attendance! I wouldn't want to distract him and upset him so just hours before he leaves!"

"Izuku, I am not trying to upset you, or upset him. However, we also can't just keep pushing this back. He needs to know."

"Does he? Does he truly need to know? What will it change, Eijirou? Other than how he will see me? Daiki could reject me. He may never want to see me again!"

Well, that certainly isn't true. Daiki thinks the world of his Dam.

"He could for me as well, Izuku! I know there are risks to telling Daiki, but he is my son and I am exhausted pretending he is not!"

Daiki's breath caught in his throat, eyes widening. No, that isn't possible. How could it be true? His father is Katsuki. Eijirou had left the Kingdom long before he was born, so it couldn't be in any way possible, right? Is Eijirou delusional?

Izuku was quiet for a few moments. "Eiji..."

Tell him he's wrong.

"I know you're upset, Eiji..."

But my father is the King.

"Please, just... just a little longer... let him have this attendance, alright? Let him experience these duties before we tell him. It will be life-changing for him..."

Daiki gasped sharply, back hitting the stone wall as he clutched at his shirt over his chest.

"Your majesty?"

The Prince snapped his head up, eyes blown wide and breaths shallow.

Denki stood a few feet away, head tilted and brow raised. "My Prince, is everything alright?"

There was silence for just a few heartbeats more before there were rushed footsteps inside the study and the door swung open.

Izuku gasped, skidded to a halt with Eijirou frozen in the doorway, gripping the door.

Daiki stumbled back a few steps, looking between them. "You- you can't- that's not- it can't be-" he stuttered, tears burning in his eyes.

"Oh, Gods, Daiki-" Izuku hurried to his son, cupping his face and biting back his own tears. "Daiki, you weren't supposed to hear-"

"I'm not his son!" Daiki ripped his Dam's hands away, startling the three adults. "I can't be- I'm not! My father is the King!"

"Daiki, please-" Eijirou stepped up behind Izuku, placing one hand on Izuku's shoulder and reaching to the Prince with his other.

The sight of them touching suddenly made him sick. It was a simple touch, comforting as Izuku was releasing heavy distress pheromones. However, it made those words replay in his head - "he is my son and I am exhausted pretending he is not!"

Daiki gasped, hands in his hair. "You- you didn't! Tell me it's not true! King Katsuki Bakugou is my father!"

Izuku sobbed, reaching to his son with trembling hands. "Daiki, please-"

"Oh, Gods!" Daiki jumped back, needing far from his Dam. "You betrayed him!? An affair!?"

"Daiki, do not raise your voice-" Eijirou started sternly, but Daiki's glare quickly turned to him.

"Do not command me! You are not my father! You are just a Knight and I am the Prince-" Daiki then froze. He looked to his crying Dam once again, his shoulders falling. "I am not a Prince... I am not his heir if I am not his son..."

Izuku wept, reaching out once more. "Please, listen-"

"Why!? Why would you- how could you!?" Daiki slapped Izuku's hand away breaths harsh and ragged. "Did you hate him so!? To have an affair and become pregnant!? Did he know!?"

"Daiki-"

"Was I some power-play!? Is that it!? And you didn't tell me so you would stay in power!?"

"Enough!" Eijirou snarled, squaring his shoulders and shielding Izuku. His earthy scent thickened with smoke, Daiki gasping as the furious scent invaded his nose. "You will not speak to your Dam in that way, Prince or not! You do not know of the circumstances and therefore cannot judge his character!"

"Circumstances!? What does that matter when he had a mate!? Were you happy!? Were you two fucking happy when he died!? Couldn't wait to be mates, could you!?"

Izuku choked on a horrible sob, gasping for breath. "Daiki-!"

"I-I can't," Daiki stuttered, tripping as he stumbled back. "Oh Gods, I fucking can't-" He turned quick and broke into a sprint. He didn't care where he was going, as long as it was far from his Dam, and apparently his true Sire.

He gasped and collapsed behind the stables fingers curling into the grass as he heaved for breath. This wasn't real. This wasn't happening. He had been clinging to the few memories of Katsuki he had because Katsuki is his father.

Maybe his Dam is mistaken. He had an affair with the Knight, but still got pregnant by the King? That's possible, right? Katsuki could still be his true Sire.

If only he was here. If only he could talk to his father again. Have him clear the air. Did he know? If he did, how could he forgive his Dam? How could they keep being mates as if Izuku had committed such a betrayal? What if Hana wasn't Katsuki's pup, either? Kenji is clearly Eijirou's, being only six years old and it having been a decade since Katsuki's death.

God, he can't think- he can't breathe-

"Will you be able to travel for your attendance, your majesty?"

Daiki jolted and shoved himself up, falling back on his rump. He looked wide-eyed up to Tenya, the Knight stoic as he looked down to the Prince. "Tenya..?"

With a sigh, shoulders and brow relaxing, Tenya crouched in front of the Prince. "You must be... very confused. Conflicted."

The young Alpha swallowed hard, pursing his lips to keep them from trembling. "Did you know..?"

"Not until the day before that attack," Tenya answered softly, Daiki wincing.

"So... so he knew?"

The Knight hummed and lifted a sealed paper. "This is for you, your majesty. This was meant for your Eighteenth birthday, before your coronation, but... I think you need it now..."

With shaking fingers, Daiki took the parchment.

Tenya placed a gentle hand on Daiki's shoulder, giving him a squeeze before leaving him alone once more.

Daiki looked down to the seal, more tears blurring his vision.

The King's seal stamped to hold the parchment shut just beneath his neatly written name.

He carefully ran his thumb beneath the seal and unfolded the parchment, sobbing as he began to read.

'Daiki,

If you are receiving this, then I must not have survived this attack. I've written many letters before, but have always been able to burn them. Must not have been so lucky this time. I have also written your sister, and she'll receive hers on her eighteenth birthday as well.

Hopefully your Dam has told you, by blood, you are not my son-'

Daiki dropped his head back, gritting his teeth. So, at least he did know... He sniffed and rubbed at his nose, then continued.

'- However, you are my son in every way that matters.

I was there when you were born, and cared for you each day since. I held you, listened to your first laugh, watched you smile at your Dam for the first time, assisted with your first steps, and I cannot express how thrilled and proud I was that my name was your very first word. I have known since long before you were born that you were not mine by blood, and I honestly do not care.

Yes, I of course had been furious when I discovered the affair. I am sure you were as well. However, your Dam and Eijirou were the people I cared the most about. I loved them more than I was angry, so instead of performing a traditional punishment when I had found out, I instead banished Eijirou and lead Izuku to believe that the man he loved had died. In that way, I was cruel in return. The way I love your Dam is the way he loves Eijirou, and I cannot fault him for his feelings. You should not either. You will understand when you find love for yourself. I am grateful that despite our differing feelings, we were still mates. We were still friends. Your Dam did still love me, even if it is not in the way I do.

Daiki, I have always loved you, and you will always be my son. Your blood does not change that. You are who will inherit my crown and throne. You will carry on my legacy as the Crimson King. I couldn't be more proud of you, and I know you will make a great King.

Lead with pride, strength and compassion. Be someone your people can turn to in their time of need. Keep this Kingdom safe and protected. You can do this. I know you can. Stay close to your Dam, listen to him. Head his council. Keep your sister out of too much trouble, but let her have some fun.

I hope I will be able to burn this letter with all the others, but there are risks to being a King who stands with his people. Those risks are worth it, in the end. I'm proud of the King I was. Proud of my children and happy with my mate. I lived a good life, and all I want is the same for you and your sister.

Keep this with you to read whenever you need affirmation. Whenever you doubt yourself. Whenever you feel you need to talk to me, open this letter and know I am right behind you, helping you along the way.

Long live King Daiki Bakugou, son of King Katsuki Bakugou.'

Daiki swallowed hard, the tears in his eyes making it so difficult to read. He sniffled, running his finger down the edge of the parchment. "Dad..."

He lifted his head at a low snort, smiling and laughing weakly.

Ash stood in the nearby paddock, swishing his tail and his hind-leg cocked as he looked to the Prince. The King's horse, now retired and sickly, but too stubborn to give in to his age.

Daiki rubbed at his cheek and pushed himself to his feet. He walked to the paddock and stroked Ash's face. The gray horse sighed, nostrils flaring as he nudged Daiki's palm. The Prince nodded, pursing his lips. "You probably remember him best, huh..? I wish I could remember more about him. Do you think I could ever be like him..?"

The stallion stretched his neck to sniff Daiki's shirt, shuffling his lip across the fabric. The Prince grinned and wrapped his arms around Ash's head. "I'll try my best to make him proud of me..."

~

Izuku paced, thumbnail between his teeth.

It has been a week since Daiki left for his attendance. He should be returning today. This will be Izuku's first time seeing him since Daiki found out about his blood parentage.

The Regent continuously glanced to the gate, stopping to bounce on his toes nervously for a few moments before returning to pacing. No one in the courtyard knew what was making the Regent so jittery and nervous, and no one approached him.

"Your Grace?"

Izuku startled, whipping around to face Denki. The Knighy bowed. "Denki... what is it?"

"You should come inside and sit instead of wait out in this cold." He gestured to the doors where Eijirou stood with Kenji and Hana.

The Regent shook his head and turned back to the gate. "No. He will be here soon. I need to greet him and I need to alone. I need to just talk to him and try to explain-"

"Open the gates! The Prince is returned!"

Izuku sucked in a sharp breath, fingers curling tightly together as the gate began to open. "Take them back inside..."

Denki bowed once more and jogged up the steps, waving to Eijirou.

Kenji whined, wanting his Dam, Hana as hesitant to leave as both Kenji and Eijirou. Neither child was understanding what had happened between Izuku and Daiki.

Izuku just wasn't brave enough to tell his pups. He should have been. He should have told Daiki sooner. Maybe Daiki wouldn't have been so angry when he was younger. He released his breath as he saw Daiki riding in with Tenya and other Knights behind them.

Daiki looked up and stopped talking the moment he saw his Dam. He swallowed and stopped his horse with the others before sliding off.

The Regent bit back his tears, trying to keep his back straight. Daiki spoke once more to Tenya before slowly approaching his Dam. Izuku swallowed hard, breathing deeply.

"Uhm... can we go somewhere private?" Daiki glanced around the courtyard and Izuku nodded quickly.

"Yes, of course. We can go to the study." Izuku tried a smile, but Daiki only walked passed him. Izuku bit his lip and followed.

The walk to the study was silent and tense. Daiki kept three strides ahead of his Dam, arms hanging by his sides.

Finally, they reached the study, Daiki opening the door and stepping aside for his Dam to enter. Izuku smiled and tipped his head before entering. He stopped by the lounge as the door shut, running his fingers along the arm. "You know... your favorite game was peek-a-boo..."

Daiki blinked a few times, confused as he looked to his Dam. "What?"

Izuku sat down, looking to the desk chair. "When you were just a little pup... When Katsuki would work and I would have you in here with us, you liked to crawl to him and pull his cloak over yourself. He liked the game just as much as you, all too happy to play along. You two would play for hours."

The Prince clenched his jaw, walking over to the desk. "I, uhm... Tenya gave me the letter from him." Izuku looked back to him, eyes wide. "So, he knew the whole time..?"

Tearing up more, Izuku's fingers curled into fists in his lap. "Yes... he found out the heat you had been conceived..."

"How?"

Swallowing, Izuku's gaze fell to the floor. "Eijirou and I had been secretly together for a while... we were planning on running away together... but then my heat started during an attack in one of the outer villages. I had to run on my own and I was unable to make it to the palace. I went to a cabin, one Katsuki and I had been to many times when we needed a break from royalty... Eijirou had found me first. We hadn't meant to spend heat together, but we did. Katsuki finally came after, and he caught Eijirou's scent inside. After returning to the palace, he saw me kissing him, and he knew... so he then banished Eijirou and told everyone he had been killed."

Daiki turned to face Izuku. "So when did you find out he knew?"

Izuku chuckled, shifting to lean back. "When you found Eijirou in Emperor Todoroki's Kingdom." The Prince's brows furrowed. "You had run off after we set up camp. When I found you, Eijirou had just found you as well. He was in hiding so we wouldn't see him, but somehow you did. When we reached the palace, as we were visiting the Todoroki's at the time, I asked if he knew. I was terrified. Him knowing didn't make sense to me because of how much he adored you. However, he admitted he did know. This was when I was pregnant with Hana."

Daiki turned away, looking out the windows. "And you stayed with him instead of staying with Eijirou..." Izuku nodded slowly. "Even though you had originally planned on running away with him?"

"Yes..." Izuku stood and cautiously approached his son. "Yes, I had dreamed of running away with Eijirou... but I also loved Katsuki far too much to lose him as well. Aside from being my mate, Katsuki was my greatest friend. He was your father, and he was Hana's father. I was needed more as the Queen, as your mother, and as Katsuki's mate more than I was needed as Eijirou's lover..."

Daiki leaned over the desk and gripped the edges. "So you never saw him again after..?"

"I saw him, but never allowed myself to approach." Izuku stood beside him, watching. "I was afraid of hurting Katsuki again. I kept busy every time we passed through the village... then he came to us..."

Shoulders slumping forward, Daiki rubbed his face. "To warn you and dad about the attack..."

Izuku rubbed his arm, tearing up. "Eijirou was only supposed to stay until after the attack... When we won, he was supposed to go and I'd never see him again... but someone with shifting magic made themselves look like me to trick Katsuki into leading her to you and Hana... she wanted to kill all of you... but she was caught and stabbed Katsuki... and he didn't make it through the night..." Daiki's shoulders shook and he crouched in front of the desk, arms curling over his head. "His... he told Eijirou to stay... to protect us because he knew Eijirou would... and Eijirou couldn't refuse his last wish..."

Daiki inhaled deeply, closing his eyes. "You were with him when he died, right?"

Izuku's lips trembled, tears finally falling down his cheeks. "Yes... I was with him all night."

Sniffing, Daiki pulled himself to his feet. "Do you remember his last words..?"

Izuku reached up, gently touching Daiki's cheek. "He was asking about you and Hana... making sure you two were okay... you two were his whole world."

Closing his eyes to stop his tears from escaping him, Daiki leaned into his Dam's hand. "I miss him... I wish he was here..."

"Me too..." Izuku's voice broke and he straightened Daiki's jacket. "I see him in you, though. I can't tell you how proud I am and I know he is so proud of you, too..."

Daiki embraced Izuku tightly, nuzzling into his hair. "I'm sorry, mom... I shouldn't have yelled like that. I shouldn't have said you were happy he died, I shouldn't have."

Izuku held him just as tightly, breathing deeply. "It's alright... I understand, I do." He rubbed Daiki's back, swaying with him.

The Prince sighed, steadily relaxing. "Do you think I'll be a good King..? One like him..? Is it okay for me to be King after him..?"

The Regent pulled back to cup his face and smiled. "He expressed almost everyday since you were born how great a King you will be. You will be a wonderful King, and he wanted you to have his throne. You are still his son, Daiki..."

Daiki nodded and nuzzled back into his Dam. Izuku held him close, humming softly to him.

~

Eijirou looked up as their bedroom door opened and swerved around their bed. "Izuku..?"

The Regent looked up and smiled softly, letting the door close behind him. "He's gone to bed." He took Eijirou's hands as he reached out to him. "We talked for a while..."

"And..?" Eijirou swipped his thumbs over Izuku's knuckles, searching his expression.

Izuku sighed and leaned into him. "He just needs some time, Eiji... but he's better than he was. He received Katsuki's letter. Tenya gave it to him early. It really helped him."

Eijirou wrapped his arms around his mate and rested his chin on his head. "I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have fought with you and he wouldn't have had to find out in such a way..."

"It is better that he learned sooner rather than later..." Izuku closed his eyes, resting his head on Eijirou's chest. "I think we'll be okay..."

"Come," the Knight nosed at his hair and gently pulled on him. "We need to rest."

"Yes." Izuku smiled and began to undress. "We just need to give him some space. Let him think about it." He changed into his nightwear and crawled into their bed.

Eijirou sighed, sitting on the edge of the bed. "Sometimes... I still wonder how things would have been if we had run together..."

A frown curled Izuku's lips, searching his mate. "Eijirou-"

"No, I know." Breathing deeply, Eijirou lifted the bedding over himself. "I know. Katsuki was important, too. And Hana..."

"You know I couldn't just choose... I regret not running with you, but I would have regret leaving him. You both were far too important to choose between..." Izuku pulled the covers over his lap. "Things would be so different, but the choice was just too impossible. Either way, I would lose someone so deeply important to me..."

Eijirou reached over and gently took his hand. "Izuku... no matter the past, we're here together now. The pups are the most important until they can be on their own. We'll do our best for them and then what's best for us, alright? We can help Daiki sort through his thoughts and feelings about this."

Humming, Izuku shifted and lay down. "He'll never stop seeing Katsuki as his father, though..."

"I understand that..." Eijirou pursed his lips, tracing his fingers down Izuku's cheek. "It may hurt, but I know how things were for him. I never expected him to just accept me as his father."

Izuku entwined their fingers and sighed. "We'll work through this, Eiji... I love you."

Eijirou lifted his hand to kiss his knuckles. "And I love you..."

-----

33984 words

Oh

My

God

You guys... if you're still here, I am SO FUCKING SORRY

I literally just wanted to write smut! It was going so well, but then- I got lost! I got so lost and invested in the fucking plot, you guys!

Holy shit, I am so fucking sorry Ya'll just had to read my word vomit

Also, why can't I write a non-amgsty Kirideku one shot? Huh? All my kirideku fics have been bittersweet and angsty.

Also, if you think I'm going back and editing this BS, you're dead wrong. So I apologize for any overlooked mistakes.

I'll also leave my notes at the beginning as is because it's funny and I want Ya'll to know I legit only wanted to write smut for you guys. Not a whole novel. That's my bad.