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yandere-wishes · 4 months ago

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SWAN SONG (Yan! Baron Von Rothbart x Reader)

𝜗𝜚🦢 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚 Written in collaboration with my lovely @umgatochamadopercyval ~💝

𝜗𝜚🦢 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚 Swan Lake Ballet OST

𝜗𝜚🦢 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚 One Rothbart on the rocks coming right up

But I love you more than words can say, I'm sorry things ended up this way~💜

He's been trapped in his melancholy lately. Glaring daggers at haughty snowflakes from his frosted study window. The snow, no matter how nostalgic and periodic it may be, fills him with a sense of anguish.

But why the snow? Why the very milieu of his upbringing?"

Oh just cause. Just cause it was snowing when he first caught sight of a peculiar swan down by the lake.

At heart, Rothbart is and always will be a conqueror. It's such a shame that Princess Odette's kingdom had to learn that the hard way. He doesn't regret his decision, doesn't regret the curse. But sometimes, just sometimes in the silent dead of night, he can't help but feel that maybe, just maybe he was a bit too hasty.

Odette may be queen.

The sovereign of the lake.

But there are other swans. Other wedded towed white feathered birds, that shapeshift into pretty girls at night.

Maybe Rothbart was too hasty in picking his obsolete bride.

It's easy to forget a curse when you have enough distractions. It's easy to forget a skinned knee when you're staring at a sunset. Odette calls you angry, delinquent, rebel. Every word that can never be used to describe her. The forest is a landscape under your feet, a haze of greens and whites. The cold bites at your wings, knawing between the feathers.

It's easy to forget a curse when you have enough of a distraction.

There's a piercing clangor that calls for a landing. A loud clamor of something memorable yet foreign. You hear the frightened squeaking of your kind, their screams of terror reverberating through your ears. You glance at the sky as you descend, the sun has all but set you should be regaining your true form soon.

The wood crunches under your toed feet. Your muscles ache in this layout, you roll your shoulders back trying to ergo the tension. You hear the screaming again and run towards the sound.

Don't think, don't dream, just act.

You see the bodies before you notice the men with the guns. Bloodied morbid on the ground, white feathers marred with red. This was to be expected, wasn't it? The noise must have been a gun, a bullet racing through the air. You watch as the men exchange salutes, some descending from their steeds. In the last silver of light, you notice one of the swans twitching, a weak noise emitting from her orange beak.

You rush in, gathering her in your arms. You hear the men scream, holler in surprise at a wild woman appearing from the trees. You don't listen, don't care you just run, run back to the lake.

There's a split second when your mind blanks. The next thing you register is the weight in your hand and then a pained cry that paints you in satisfaction.

It's easy to forget a curse when you have enough distractions.

It's easy to remember a curse when it starts to kill you again.

You meet Rothbart a day after the hunting party. See him descend from the sky in all his fiery glory. He's nothing less of a phoenix, nothing short of frightening. He melts the snow at his feet, turning it into an eerie mist. He's here to check on the queen, to make sure she wasn't the young swan that died. He can not permit her such satisfaction.

Even though you fight with Odette, you love her deep down, if she’s the queen you are her second, brave enough to leave the lake sometimes and live in the wilderness, bringing exotic flowers and trinkets back to the lake.

That’s one of the reasons that makes you shield her from his looming presence, ready to duel your captor.

“She’s not feeling up to see you, Baron” You block his passage.

The chill should be familiar by now, biting, harsh, but familiar. You shouldn’t shy away from the frost in his eyes. “Your loyalty is commendable, maiden” he all but spat.

You laugh, truly you think it’s his obsession that’s commendable. Deranged, twisted, malicious, but commendable to some extent.

You stay in a staring contest for some time until the weight of his gaze is too much to hold onto.

“What are you doing here?”

"I was here to see my bride."

"She isn't your bride..." Vemon leaks from between your lips lacing pre-practised words. This has to have been the umpteenth time this conversation has played out. Exact same in every way, with snowflakes descending gingerly upon your head and his icy eyes memorizing your every feature. No doubt to remember who to slaughter later.

"Just bring me-" he's cut short by the loud echo of the gun. The sharp chirp and moans of thousands of rudely awakened birds fleeing into the air.

"They're back" Someone screams and before he knows it the lake is almost desolate. White feathers litter whiter snow, as a group of half-swan, half-girls huddle in a corner whispering machination. Rothbart cringes as he hears Siegfried's name thrown around with zealous hope.

He watches you transform and depart above the canopy.

Hear the gunshots disturbing the moon and stars.

He doesn't wait around to see if you return.

Rothbart knows he isn't lucky enough to witness your demise.

People are stupid that way, aren't they? Believing that ends come so easily? That death is such a deliciously easy thing to hold in the palm of your hand and kiss whenever one pleases. No death is just another hard-earned badge from life. And you, his darling little swan are a little too far from earning such a delectable pleasure.

Rothbart mocks a bow at an inraged Odette. Laughs in a tone too sadistic to name and promises he'll be back. He leaves out the part of just 'who' he'll be back for but he doubts Odette ever pays that much attention to his little speeches. Doubts she caught the little sparkle of wordplay.

He's here again next midnight. Winter coat made of reddening feathers and redder flames still. You turn from your seat on the river rocks. Legs bent as you try to see if you can stand on point with a bullet wound in your thigh. Maybe those showy flames could be useful for once, maybe they could cauterize the wound.

"You do not dance" Rothbart dares to ask. He studies your frame trying to find an imperfection, a sign of last night. You simply sigh tongue in cheek, choking on river air. The younger maidens dance under the moonlight pas de chat's with their arms crossed, they look too serene to be here. Too used to the feathers and beaks. You motion vaguely to your leg, ballet shoe platform flat on the ground. Rothbart knees before you, delicately tracing a warm hand over your powerful legs. Hicking up your tutu ever so slightly. His thumb runs over your thigh pressing gently into the wound. Scratch really, the bullet narrowly missed and yet left too deep a mark. His finger digs deeper and deeper, you stifle an icy moan bubbling in your throat. You throw your head back tenderly as his eyes pierce your neck. Rothbart summons his flames, they burn the scarred tissue and ravage your muscles. You choke on a sob and yet...

You haven't felt this warm in years...

"You see what you've done to us." Odette preaches, she's seated by the river bank. Rothbart tower's over here, eyes glued over her shoulder. Some of the other swans are helping you dance. As if it's such an important thing. As if you need to pirouette and Plié to breathe. "You do not listen, Baron," Odette says, voice low and depleted. "Oh but I do my dear Odette, And I've come to offer aid." The queen snorts, half a honk and half a laugh. "I suppose your aid would be to turn us into carnivorous wolves? To rip and tear these hunters apart."

"Those hunters are royal born. The party is run by a duke's son. I could perhaps persuade his parents that the forest is too dangerous your their wayfarer heir." Odette simply rolls her eyes. "What do you want" she mumbles defeated. Rothbart sucks in a breath, straightens his spine, and watches as Odette flinches at the sound of crackling bone. " I'd like to take one of your swans home with me."

No, the answer had simply been a no. Of course, followed by a slew of vulgar accusations. Ones that Rothbart didn't even know the sweet swan princess Odette would know. "Simply permit (y/n) to keep me company in my castle and I shall free you from this obnoxious threat."

Odette curses again, making sure they hit close to home. The last one is particularly bold. The monster she says and for a split second Rothbart almost feels cruel. In a spiral of flames, he is gone. Leaving Odette to cry, tears melting the snow...

It's a few moons before Rothbart sees you again. He'd been isolating himself in his library, watching the snow and reading poetry he pretended to understand. He'd always thought himself stronger than this. Always invincible.

He hears a tapping at his window, the forest view blocked by the white of a swan's body. Rothbart is quick to jump to his feet, to push the window apart and permit the bird in. It's you, he can tell by the angry way you wobble about his library. He finds it rather cute how you shake your feathers to dry yourself, before curling by the fireplace, glaring daggers at him. Rothbart returns to his seat picking up the ancient book about princesses and genies. He'll have to wait till moonbreak to understand what this is all about.

"I heard your proposal to Odette...I'm here to solidify the deal." You're still curled by the fireplace. Point shoes and feather tutu. He thinks you look quite adorable like this, stubborn little pet. "Does your queen know that you are here?" He asks, the cadence of his voice a little too playful. "Yes does, or well, she will once she reads my note." Rothbart rolles his eyes. " Great, so I should be expecting an army of swans at my door any minute now."

"No" you sign looking out the window with a glint of hope twinkling in your eyes.

"No?" You refuse to elaborate, "Will you save them from the hunters" you finally plead. Rothbart summons you to stand and come forth. He then pulls you onto his lap, fiery lips nipping at your pretty throat. "Yes, I suppose I will."

Your back is to Rothbart's chest as his hands wrap around your waist. Head turned at an odd angle as he kissed you deeply. The letter to Princess Odette and Prince Siegfried's wedding lies on the carpet forgotten. "You little swan" Rothbart breathes between each kiss. You like the lilt of his voice, like tender flames dancing in the hearth.

"May we please go to the wedding." You plead, chasing his lips, desperate for his addictive, acidic taste. "We shall see," he murmurs, pressing stars into your hips. Rothbart, kisses your forehead, relishing in the way you nuzzle into him. Desperate for his warmth, his touch, him...

Maybe he'd been a bit too hasty to offer his heart to Odette.

But then again he had won, his cruelty and depravity had been rewarded with his own little precious swan. His darling lover who tasted of moonlight and Oenothera. You were his, all his, trapped with him forever inside his castle.

Rothbart kisses you again deeply, softly. Savoring your sweet moans between his teeth.

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chloe-spade · 25 days ago

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The Swan Prince: Love Found A Way

The moon shined upon a beautiful lake, complimenting its reflection. A swan with primarily white feathers floated. Red marked his left. He floated sadly to the shoreline, Dabi standing there, arms crossed, and his face hard to read. Cold cyan eyes stared down at the Swan before him, but he knew he couldn't harm him.

"Don't be sad, Shoto," Dabi mocked with a grin. "This is only temporary. I don't intend to keep you like this, but we need you for our plan." He looked up at the moon. "And besides, the moon is rising. You'll be human once again."

The Swan looked up at the moon as water surrounded him, freeing him from his swan prison. Prince Shoto looked down at his hands for a moment and the rest of himself before slowly walking towards the grasslands, refusing to keep contact with Dabi.

"Oh, don't be like that," Dabi groaned, "I didn't kill that old man, but oh, I desperately wanted to. But I had to stick to the plan, like my boss had told me. You're part of that plan."

Shoto still wasn't responding.

"You little brat," Dabi hissed, raising his hand, summoning fire. "You better talk, or else I will-"

"Don't even think about it." Warned a voice from behind, "You know what he wants. One of them is not killing the prince."

"Who is my brother," Dabi reminded. "Who King Endeavor almost died protecting? Shigaragi, you honestly believe that man can keep his word?"

"Yes," Shigaragi answered. "But we need to keep your anger in check if this plan were to work. Meaning, we need him alive."

Dabi scoffed and walked away, leaving Shigaragi and Shoto alone.

"Pardon my partner," Shigaragi chuckled evilly. "He became a hothead after his presumed death and hadn't exactly let go of the past as some hoped. No matter, he did his part."

"…what part?" Shoto whispered.

"Oh, the little swan is now speaking," Shigaragi mocked but frowned. "He collected you and you only. And I suppose, keeping Endeavor alive, as he would be devastated knowing his favorite child was held captive. It makes us laugh at how freaked out he is, just like our leader wants."

"…should I know who your leader is?" Shoto mumbled.

"You should. All For One would be quite pleased when he finds out we have the young prince of Selene."

Shoto's eyes widen slightly at the name, releasing a small gasp.

All For One is known as the most potent warlock for using every single spell, stealing magic from other warlocks, and leaving them powerless against him. He leaves bodies in his path, from those who try to fight him to those who betray him.

Many stories were told about him. But only one sparked hope, a light in the darkness. One is about All Might, another powerful warlock who would use his magic for good, unlike All For One's evil. One day, All Might and All For One fought for many years, leading to All Night's victory and All For One's capture once and for all.

All Might continue to be a ray of hope for people worldwide. Shoto even remembered Izuku talking about him and admiring him.

"..what does he want with me?" Shoto asked.

"Not for much," Shigaragi answered. "But it might be a while until you officially meet him. He's still imprisoned, after all."

Shoto was about to protest, but Shigaragi was already gone after he finished his sentence.

"YOU WON'T GET AWAY WITH THIS!" Shoto screamed into the air.

But no one was there to listen to him. He was alone, and he knew that, so he just…sank sadly and started to cry for the first time in years. The only comfort he seemed to get was the bright moon, which made him human for the night.

🦢A Year Later🦢

Izuku was training in the training yard, regardless of the people watching during tea time, including his mother, Inko. But she couldn't blame her son, especially what happened.

"Day after day, all the prince ever does is practice, practice, practice." Inko sighed, looking at Izuku, "Thinking of him and the way that it as he practice, practice, practice."

Izuku managed another bullseye from his arrow after consulting with All Might about his need to get stronger. He was supported by almost everyone else, who watched mainly with boredom but with support.

"This is so useless," Groaned Katsuki, "I mean, that boy is dead. He should be moving on by now."

"Don't say that!!" Huffed Ochaco, who was cleaning her staff. "Clearly, you don't see how much Shoto means to him and everyone else here. I mean, Izuku wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't for Shoto."

"And we don't have the exact evidence that Shoto died," Tenya added, "who knows? Maybe he was simply held prisoner somewhere. And if that's the case, we should be prepared for anything."

"All I'm saying is that this is just…unnecessary," Katsuki sneered. "That prince caused nothing but trouble, and Selene is close to starting a whole damn war because of this. I say we cut out losses."

"I'm surprised that Izuku managed to convince the king not to," Tsuyu said. "We saw how he acted, and yet he didn't start one. We should be grateful. Blessed, even."

"Heh, you guys make me sound like a hardened soldier," Izuku chuckled nervously. "I'm still old me, remember?"

"Oh, we know!" Ochaco giggled. "But watching you practice gets tiring when we don't have conversations. And well, it's time for a break!"

Izuku sighed and sat down, "You're right, I've been up all morning for this."

"I'd say you'd done well, young prince," All Might grinned, "If this continues, you'll be a strong warrior."

"That's not my goal…well, it is, but I mean. I want to find Shoto and save him from whatever happens to him," Izuku admitted. "Having him back is my wish."

"Having a goal also helps you succeed," added Aizawa, the very silent tutor. "Though I am afirad, this is a very unrealistic one."

"I want to succeed, and I won't stop from achieving it."

Izuku sighed and looked down at the locket again, a reminder of Shoto. He remembered Shoto's happiness when he saw it for the first time and the hug afterward, thanking him for such a generous gift.

"I know he's alive," Izuku grins, "Shoto's a survivor, and he wouldn't let this drag him down, nor should I."

Katsuki scoffed and rolled his eyes. "Can we just eat some lunch already? I'm starving."

"True," Eijirou nodded, "let's eat!"

Everyone got up and walked up to join Inko to eat lunch, with Izuku following behind. From the corner of his eyes, he saw a beautiful swan who watched from the tree with an oddly red stroke of feathers on his left. His look reminded him of Shoto, and as he went closer, the Swan flew away as far as he could.

"What a…beautiful swan," Izuku mumbled softly, looking at the Swan flying away. "Maybe I'll see it again." 🦢 Shoto panted as he looked back at the castle. It was a miracle that he could watch Izuku during the day as a swan. It was a way to be still involved, though from a distance. He also liked that Izuku still adored him and wanted to save him from the fate he was trapped in.

"Oh, look who's back," shouted Yuga, a young frog, as Shoto landed at the lake. "So, tell me all the details."

"Oh, please," Shoto flushed. "He's just the same as ever. Kind, determined, and always ready to help others if they are in danger. What else is new to say other than that?"

"Well, a proclamation of love?" Yuga teased.

"Always," Shoto giggled.

"I should be jealous, but oh, the sound of your love makes my day." Yuga hummed happily.

Shoto blushed with his feathers.

"Oh, good morning," said Momo, a hummingbird, "I didn't think you would sneak off this early, but you always find a way to surprise me."

"I cannot help myself," Shoto blushed. "I am way too deep in love with him, and I don't want to lose that love now. But I always fear that he will one day love another, and I cannot stop him. I am trapped here after all, and who knows when I'll be able to be human again."

"That's bad," Yaomomo sighed sadly. "But Izuku is strong-willed. I do not think that day will be arriving anytime soon."

"You think?"

"I hope," Momo grinned.

"I hope so too," Shoto beamed. "But I don't know what I am supposed to do. And with that…creature wants from me. Marriage, do you realize how wrong and absurd it is? I can't possibly do this, even if it was for my kingdom."

"I also shudder at the thought," Yuga laughed. "I mean, at his age, he should be dead."

"Deceased," Shoto added. "But I can't really be surprised. Well, half-way surprised."

They talked for most of the day, but after a while, Shoto watched as the moon rose above. He slowly shuffled his way and swam around the lake, watching the water surround him again. Finally, he was human again, like how it's been.

"And maybe one day, I can break this curse," Shoto softly spoke, walking towards the shore. "But I know today is not the day. If only…"

"Shoto!"

Shoto gasped as he heard the All-For-One approach. He couldn't help but shiver when the wizard made his appearance. His face was deformed to the point that his eyes were the only things shown, and they showed a lot of emotions: Pride, Greed, and Anger, but softness for Shoto as if he wanted to spare the poor boy, but his wicked heart wouldn't allow him.

"You again," Shoto managed to hiss. "What is this about?"

"Oh, you know dear prince," AFO laughed, his fingers snapping.

Shoto saw the old scenery around him transform into a beautiful and familiar ballroom, and people stared at him. He found himself in a wedding suit, with AFO wearing a similar attire, and crowns were put on their heads.

"You know, there are reasons I cannot take over Helios," AFO chuckled. "But Selene is a fair game that I want to win, but to take over, I need to get married within the royal bloodline. And considering how Enji considers you such a pinnacle of human existence, I choose you as my bride. Think about it, Shoto," AFO's eyes wickedly flashed as he used his magic to show a shadow of Enji hanged on the post. Dead.

"Don't you want revenge? For the way he treated you in the past? You have been harmed, abused, belittled and yet shown so much love, that he risked your own brother's life to save yours! I can feel your anger within your heart. You want this."

"Not as bad as you," Shoto whispered. "Sure, I want my revenge but I refuse to marry someone I do not love and I will not kill anyone!"

Shoto turned as the scenery dissolved around him.

"Even if I wanted to that badly, I would've let that man rot in the dungeon for all I care," Shoto said. "But even if I could…I could never kill him. As much as I hated him, he was still my father."

"Suit yourself, but listen to me when I tell you this," AFO laughed. "You will stay here forever until you say yes. And who knows how long that could be."

AFO disappeared into a red smoke with an evil laugh, leaving Shoto coughing after the mess.

"Ugh, so persistent," Yuga groaned. "You think he learned the hint."

"Tell me about it," Shoto scoffed and sat down at the stairs. "He wants me. And wants me to kill my own father, that monster."

Shoto yawns and looks up at the moon. "This curse does have multiple disadvantages, but one that I could name? I can't sleep by the lake. I wish I didn't sleep on the ground."

"Go rest, Shoto," Momo whispered in his ear. "I can hum to you, if you like?"

"You don't mind?"

"Of course not," Momo grinned, sat down on his shoulder, and started humming in his ear.

Shoto yawns and rests against the tree, slowly falling asleep, dreaming about escaping again. 🦢 "Hmm, a lot of people really want to marry my son," Inko hummed, looking at the letters. "I mean, Izuku is a great man, but how do I let them down gently?"

"Perhaps just write," Aizawa suggested. "We know where Izuku's heart lies and who it belongs to. I'm not surprised."

"You are right, but I am worried about him," Inko admitted. "He's about to be king and I know a king doesn't need a wife, but I would feel a little bit more safer if he wasn't alone."

"I understand, but rest assured, I am available," Aizawa mentioned. "I do worry about him as well, especially when he trains with All Might and had several broken bones last year. It's incredible worrying."

"I think All Might is a good influence," Inko laughed. "If not a little odd, but he's been the hero of our lands for years now, and I think he has such great advice for Izuku. If he still thinks it's a big bird that took Shoto."

"I am surprised that Enji listened to Izuku and backed off on starting a war. Surely, he would've been in the same house he put his own wife in if that was the case." Aizawa chuckled.

"Shota.."

"It's true, and we can't avoid it much longer," sighed Aizawa as he walked towards the window. "He was a bad man and a worse king. His pride only caused more harm than good, and that night resulted from his actions. Yet, once again, he blames it on Helios, which makes me feel ashamed to from Selene occasionally."

"I know, but," Inko gulped.

"But nothing, Inko."

Inko sighed as Aizawa watched Izuku train with a bow and arrow with All Might.

"Ah, amazing work!" All Might cheered happily. "At this rate, you don't even need my help."

"Thanks, All Might, but I want to do better. If one day I see Shoto again, I have to be stronger," Izuku lamented. "I know this isn't healthy, but I promised myself that I would save him, even if it's years later. I want to be with him, and this is my mission."

"I know, Young Prince," All Might comforted. "I understand why your heart. And it's a great thing you have a reason to train, it means you are willing to be your best selves."

"I know, you taught me that," Izuku chuckled. "You taught me what it would be to be a hero like yourself, and I will train to be a better prince and a great king one day."

"I'm impressed, Young Prince," All Might said with a smile. "Let's go and eat some lunch, and then we can practice some more training, but specifically with your magic."

"Ah, I am getting a little better," Izuku blushed. "I didn't even set things on fire yesterday!"

"I hope that you might get better before your midsummer birthday ball!" All Might cheered happily. "Lets go, Young Prince!"

Inko smiles happily. "See? All Might may be a better teacher than you give them credit for, Shota. Although I appreciate your concern, I trust him. Let's get these letters out and maybe think of a response."

"You're right," sighed Aizawa. "But lets deal with the Midsummer Ball."

"Yes! I can't believe I forgot about that." 🦢 Izuku sighed as he read another letter. He was annoyed but didn't exactly mind it, especially being a prince. He wanted to read all those old letters from Shoto, and it reminded him of their love. It was strange. He never thought he wanted to marry Shoto, but ever since they met, it's been his goal, which has made him feel better.

He wanted to be with Shoto again, even when many thought it was impossible. Izuku and Shoto were from different kingdoms that hated each other, but those two loved each other, which he saw when he was younger.

He continued to daydream until he heard the door knock.

"Hmm?" Izuku looked over.

"Hey, Deku! Inko wants to you at the dinner table!" called out Katsuki.

"Already? But it's like 5:00?" Izuku opened the door. "I guess she wanted to talk about something very important."

Katsuki rolled his eyes. "Come on!"

Izuku sighed and followed Katsuki toward the dining area, now a little nervous. He saw his mother delightfully chatting with Mitsuki and Masuru, Katsuki's parents, and Izuku felt slightly better. It was familiar faces that made him calm down.

"Good Afternoon, Madam and Sire," Izuku greeted. "How was your day?"

"Ah, that's the little man I want to see!" Mitsuki cheered happily. "Look at ya, still have the same babyface huh?"

"I-I guess so, Madam," Izuku gulped a little. "It's nice to see you visiting us."

"It is, indeed," Masaru added. "We also have some grand news once dinner arrives,"

"Eh, I don't want to wait,"

"We can tell him now," Inko offered. "And besides, this is going to be a special occasion."

"You mean my midsummer birthday ball in a week?" Izuku questioned, sitting down. "I mean, I don't know why that would be a secret, but I also know why, you always do something grand like a big birthday gift."

"You mean every year?" Katsuki slumped.

"Hush your mouth, boy! Yeah, and we do have some for you," exclaimed Mitsuki. "We actually have a great gift for you."

"You do?"

"Well, I am getting worried about you, Izuku," Inko admitted. "Your birthday is in a week, and after that, you will be king, but you…you don't technically have anyone by your side. You know I would never do this, but Izuku, I can't fathom you having the same problems I had when I was Queen. So…I ask if you could consider Katsuki Bakugo as a betrothed?"

"Bethroated? L-Like as in..?"

"Yes, we get wed," Katsuki groaned. "Ma thinks it'll be best."

"I…well, I suppose I…could consider it," Izuku blubbered. "But wait until the ball for my answer. I mean, I do care for you, Ka-Chan, but I want to be sure of my choice."

"Ah, that's all I ask for, Izuku," Inko smiles softly. "Thank you for understanding."

"Yeah, just to think about it.." Izuku muttered to himself. 🦢 That was a no. It was an obvious no. But why?

Izuku already loved someone else, so that was already a main factor. But he also knows Kirishima loved Katsuki, so why take that chance away? But now he needs to find Shoto before the end of his birthday, and he needs to be quick, or else that marriage is happening.

"Hey! Why are you spacing out?" Katsuki yelled, causing Izuku to jolt up.

"S-sorry, it's just that I was thinking about that swan again," Izuku lied. "It came by this morning again, and since we are in the woods together, I think it would be nice to try to find it."

"Oh? So you want swan meat?" Bakugo grinned maliciously.

"No! Absolutely not!" Izuku gasped. "I just…I see something every time I see that Swan. It's so oddly beautiful, and I just wanted to see where it goes. That's all."

Katsuki raised an eyebrow at Izuku's statement but let it slide.

Izuku looked over at the skies again and saw the Swan again. It was like the gods had listened to him, and it appeared right before him, flying high above them.

"There it is," Izuku pointed out. "I never seen a swan with red feathers like that before, don't you see, Kachan?'

"Meh, it's not as a cool as a dragon," Katsuki boasted. "But now I'm starving!…Want to go swan hunting?"

"No! Didn't you listen to me? I said no," Izuku answered.

But his words were ignored as Katsuki grabbed his hunting bow and arrow and chased after the Swan. Izuku groaned and started to follow him in an attempt to stop his friend from killing the Swan, but Katsuki wasn't listening to him. Izuku got concerned as the sun set down the forest, and he knew how his mother would react if they weren't home by the moon's rising.

"Kacchan, please, let's go," pleaded Izuku. "That Swan did nothing. Come on."

"No way! I never hunted down a swan before!" Laughed Katsuki. "It's a rare bird to hunt, Deku! This is a one in a chance!"

"Then you can have that chance another day. It's getting dark, and I am pretty sure that we might be lost," Izuku snapped. "Can we go home now?"

"What?! I can't believe you! You used to be a very prominant future hunter."

"Ugh, I can't be arguing about this." Izuku groaned. "Also, I think we are in a garden? I hope we aren't trespassing. It's beautiful here though."

"Beautifully tragic," scoffed Katsuki.

Izuku gulped before he started to look around. Katsuki was right; the place was beautiful, but it had ruined architecture and crumbling statues. It was a mess, but the flowers and the beautiful lake made it eye-catching. Izuku continued towards the lake and saw the Swan landing on the lake with a scared expression.

"Hey…" Izuku whispered as he tiptoed forward. "I'm so sorry for my friend."

"Haha! Swan Meat!" Katsuki laughed.

"Kacchan! No!"

As Izuku turned around, a slimmer of blue light caught his attention. Izuku slowly turned back to see the Swan surrounded by the lake's water, and the sight when the water settled down took his breath away.

It was Shoto, the same Shoto with whom he fell in love, the same Shoto who always wrote the most breathtaking letters to him, and the same Shoto who everyone thought tragically died. He was right in front of them, alive and surprisingly happy.

No words were spoken as Izuku rushed over to the Selene Prince and quickly embraced him tightly, kissing him passionately. He didn't care if his clothes were wet; he was overjoyed to be with his fiance again.

"I thought I was never going to see you again," Izuku whimpered, crying.

"Same as I," Shoto whispered. "Visiting you everyday payed off, didn't it?"

"That was you?" Izuku chuckled. "I could tell by the beautiful red feathers. It reminded me of you, so much."

Shoto laughs and hugs Izuku tightly. "Thank you."

Izuku grinned as he stared at Shoto. It was like he had barely changed at all, his eyes looking like skies and his two-toned hair that Izuku always thought was beautiful. Izuku kissed him again, so scared that if he let go, Shoto would disappear.

"I'm still here," Shoto reassured, somehow knowing what Izuky was thinking. "I'm so glad that you are here."

"So am I, but why are you here?"

"It's a long story," Shoto sighed sadly.

Izuku listened as Shoto recounted his tale, including the kidnapping, transformation, and constant proposals. Knowing how much Shoto had suffered throughout the year, Izuku started to worry. All Shoto still hoped was that Izuku could still come to him.

Izuku felt so guilty.

"Is something wrong?"

"No, I am fine. I just missed you so much," Izuku answered.

"I missed you to."

"…how do I break it?"

"Pardon?"

"How do I break the spell?" Izuku answered.

"Even I don't know," Shoto sighed. "I want to see, but I am scared. I also lost most of my faith in myself after what had happened. And All-For-One is smart. He would know if I did come up there and sneaked around. I wished that I had the courage to."

Izuku looked up at the decrypted castle in front of him. The light was on, but it also seemed incredibly empty, and the wheels in Izuku's head started to run intensely.

"Do you think we can find it?" Izuku asked. "Like sneak in?"

"Are you sure? I mean, no one is here, but are you sure?" Shoto asked, concerned. "You would so that for me?"

"Of course," Izuku answered, grabbing Shoto and pulling him forward. "Let's go before anyone notices."

"Izuku!" 🦢 As Shoto and Izuku entered the castle, it was empty. But that didn't make the inside scared and decrepit. Holes in stone walls and rust appeared on armor when they walked forward to the stairs. The red carpets were more burgundy under the moonlight.

"So this was All-For-One's quarters?" Izuku asked.

"Not often. He's a criminal, Izuku, and would never stay in one place forever." Shoto explained. "But we should still keep an eye out; he must still have henchmen around?"

"A-alright," gulped Izuku. "Let's just keep walking and don't stop."

Shoto and Izuku agreed and started to walk up the stairs. The windows illuminated the area, and no candle had a flicker of fire, making the castle cold. They knew they had to find that cure before it's too late.

They had been searching for hours, so when they saw the dark indigo sky transform into a blue, they knew they had little time. They began to check every room with a quick-nack place, but nothing was helping them with their search.

"We should leave," Shoto sighed. "They could be here at any moment, and I loathed to think what could happen to you if they found you."

"Not until I find that spell book," Izuku declared. "I just want to save you and now I have a chance. Please, just a little longer?"

"Fine," Shoto relented. "Let us find that book."

Izuku smiled and rushed over to a library they had never seen before. The couple started to search for it, every little book, paper, scroll, anything that they needed, but nothing could give them the answers.

But they stopped their search when they heard the door burst open, and a gust of wind caused the books to collapse around them. Izuku and Shoto managed to hide under some books and tried to sneak past them as they heard the conversation.

"He's stalling!" Shoto heard Dabi curse as their footsteps echoed throughout the room. "He's starting to remind me of that old bastard."

"Don't you worry, Dabi," Shigaragi chuckled. All-For-One knows what he is doing. Shoto has no choice but to submit one day. Who knows what'll happen if another year happens? Perhaps Shoto might be desperate."

"Shoto is never desperate." Dabi corrected. "Even at such a young age. He was never asked for anyone approval, that was our bastard of a father. Shoto is much stronger than one thinks."

"So you say we should torture him?"

"Hmm, that's not a bad idea, but I have some standards for my family. But if it's what he wants, I'll do it."

"Well, fine."

"But he has said that we should be keeping an eye on him during the day," Shigaragi explained. "Not that bad, right?"

"Why? I couldn't care less," Dabi rolled his eyes.

"Beats me. But I have my suspicions it's because of the Prince of Helios. Turns out that they two were engaged when you attacked, and if my theory is correct, if that prince finds him, then the spell could be broken by a vow of true love."

"A bit corny, don't you think?"

"Yes, but All-For-One's magical weakness is love, regardless of what is it," Shigaragi explained. "So, we should be wary, at the very best."

"Fine, but I ain't gonna be excited about this. That means more work for me."

"Oh my goodness, you are sluggish to the point of insufferably."

"Get used to it, sweetheart."

Izuku and Shoto managed to escape to their room and saw the sun rising. The sun's appearance was important as Shoto immediately transformed into a Swan before Izuku's eyes. But that didn't deter Izuku from opening a nearby window and looking down.

"You can't be possibly think of jumping out of the window?" Shoto gasped, looking at Izuku.

"Well, I have not much of a choice, now do I?" Izuku shuddered.

Izuku looked back for a moment before jumping down, expecting to hit the moat below. Instead, he grunted as he hit the back of a familiar red dragon, which quickly ascended towards the sky.

"Woah!" Izuku gasped. "Kiri? How did you found us?"

"What the hell do you mean, Deku? Guess who told him?" Katsuki growled in annoyance.

"Oh, thank you, but what happened?"

"Well, the memories are fuzzy myself, so just be grateful that I saved you!"

"Of course, thank you." Izuku thanked and looked at Shoto, who was flying beside them. "Shoto! Can I ask you something?"

Shoto nodded and flew down towards Izuku and landed on his lap.

"You are just as beautiful as a swan," Izuku grinned. "I just wish you could come with us. But I guess that isn't the case."

"No, but I am happy that you came to see me," Shoto answered.

"…A TALKING SWAN?" Katsuki gasped.

"It's Shoto, Kacchan! He's been alive, but a swan! I'll tell everyone later! Trust me," Izuku answered. "It's a long story. But, Shoto, I have a proposal for you."

"Like what?" Shoto pondered.

"Well, my birthday is coming soon, and my mother is hosting a midsummer ball in my honor. I will be there. If you can join me so I can profess my everlasting love for you, it will be my honor to have you as a guest."

"When is it?"

"Um, just tomorrow night," Izuku answered. "Please. Please tell me that you would join me in this?"

"….I promise."

Izuku grinned and hugged the Swan before letting Shoto fly away. Izuku couldn't help but smile and happily watch him fly away.

"I love you so much. That's a promise." 🦢 "What? Shoto's alive!" Ochaco gasped happily. "That's fantastic news! I can't wait to see him again. I wonder what happens when we do?"

"I'm sure he'll be just as happy to see us," Tenya grinned. "But we shouldn't overlook at that Izuku was gone for the entire night!!"

"I said I was sorry," Izuku sighed. "I lost track of time when I was Shoto. And I found a way to break the spell, so I had a very productive night. Today is when I plan to help him become human again. And I promised."

"Ugh, it's so sweet," Katsuki rolled his eyes. "Can we change the subject?"

"I wish that we could see him again," Ochaco wished. "I would break that curse. Probably anyways."

"Hm, just keep dreaming."

"I don't know why you are being so pessimistic," Tsuyu pointed out. "It's like you aren't happy for Deku."

"Do I have to pretend a smile to show I'm happy?" Katsuki groaned. "Because even if I'm happy, I just don't show it."

"Unless it involves you," Tsuyu muttered. "Just understand that Izuku wants to be with his lover again. So I suggest helping us, please?"

Katsuki snarled before walking away, leaving the group to their antics. He waited until he heard nothing before revealing a golden necklace that All-For-One showed him that night. He knew Katsuki was jealous from the very beginning when Izuku proclaimed his love for Shoto a year ago, and he was the one who convinced his mother to get them wed after Ikuku's Midsummer Ball, everything. He was suspicious of the Swan, but when he realized that it was Shoto, he had to step away until All-For-One approached him and gave him this necklace and said:

"Wear this at the Midsummer Ball so that the prince mistakes you for the Swan. He will vow his love for you, and Shoto will die of a broken heart."

Katsuki didn't consider it until Izuku promised to vow his love for Shoto.

So Katsuki grinned as he lifted the necklace, staring into his reflection.

"..Wear this, eh?…Why not? A piece of jewelry won't kill me anyway."

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