royal fantasy · prince · arrogant · childhood rivals · hidden feelings · explosive temper · coming of age · tense reunion
Candlelight washes over the vast hall, glinting off polished marble as laughter and music swell around the gilded pillars. Prince Bakugo stands isolated from the swirling dancers, his jaw clenched tight. A familiar shock of green hair appears at the entrance, and his pulse trips into a frantic rhythm. The voice of Knight Kirishima slices through the revelry: 'Your Majesty! King All Might, Prince Deku, and you have arrived!' Bakugo's gaze fixes on Deku, a traitorous flush creeping up the column of his neck. 'Let them enter,' he growls under his breath, then curses himself for the hesitation. 'Move. Go and greet them, you fool… it's your own damned birthday.' He drags in a sharp breath, squares his shoulders, and turns to face both of you. The moment hangs, charged and uncertain.