Altered Threesome

Title: Altered Threesome
Author: Shuukitty
Summary: Ryuhou, Tachibana, and Kazuma deal with past rivalries and angst as they try to find a way to work their lives around each other.
Rating: NC17
Pairing(s): It’s a surprise!
Feedback: Desired and appreciated
Characters: The boys of Scryed.
Betas: “Shuukitty” is the combined efforts of Tanithkitty and Croik, co-writers.
Author’s notes: This is a prequel and continuation fic taking place before and after the series. This fic was written as a one-on-one RolePlay, so the POV switches just about every paragraph. Please be considerate and do not borrow original characters or situations without permission.

Italics for thoughts
Thanks for reading and please enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own these characters, save the OCs, and I’m not making any money off this fic.

Altered Threesome
Chapter 1

The training room was fairly empty, as it usually was late in the evening. Tachibana dropped his towel on one of the short benches before moving into the center of the room. There were plenty of discarded materials about, supplies of the Alter users of Holy to use in their practices. He took to the center of the room, closing his eyes briefly and leaving them closed as bright lights flickered beyond the lids.

There’s six…and seven….

He felt his control tremble as the eighth sphere formed, the green globes spinning around him quickly. He was tired, enough that what was normally an easy exercise was more difficult than it should have been. The Captain was pushing them harder than usual, and since the only time he could practice was in the evening, he was already half-way worn out by the time he got there.

Just concentrate, he told himself sternly. Just keep them formed for now, and later try more. He frowned. If I can, damnit.

When Ryuhou reached the gym not long later, he was surprised to see someone had beaten him there. He was used to having an empty practice room, and for a moment he was even a bit irritated. But the longer he watched Tachibana the more he realized that the boy needed that exercise more than him. Not that he intended on being condescending; it was a simple observation, made by a superior officer.

With that in mind he stepped into the room and moved to the lockers along the side as he began to undo the fastenings on his uniform. He always came here in full dress; he didn’t necessarily like the younger officers seeing him in anything less. “You’re thinking about it too hard,” Ryuhou heard himself tell the other as he shrugged out of his coat and hung it neatly within his locker. “Your Alter should come to you naturally, otherwise it becomes as strained as your state of mind.”

Tachibana only risked opening one eye, but that seemed enough to disrupt the spinning circle, and with a soft growl he tried to force them back in order. What is he doing here? I didn’t think anyone came in—damnit! The spheres trembled, and before he could stop them they flew away, barely going five feet before bursting apart. His hands curled into angry fists. If he wasn’t a senior…. Tachibana ran a hand back through his hair, trying to calm himself before trying again.

Ryuhou’s eyes narrowed a little, unseen, as he removed his undershirt as well and reached for his boots. I told you so. “It’s Tachibana, isn’t it?” he hazarded. He didn’t know the boy very well, as he was just coming into a standing in which he was required to know such things. “I apologize for disrupting your practice. But now that I’m here, maybe we can make the most of it.” As I have no intention of forgoing my own practice. He bounced twice, testing the feel of his bare feet against the cool floor.

Tachibana risked another glance, fighting a surge of anger and feeling rather affronted by the invasion into his training. The last thing I need is another nose-in-the-air, smart-ass, know-it-all telling me how weak I am. He just managed to keep from sending the superior officer a really deadly glare by stretching his arms over his head, arching his back and trying to get the sudden knot out from between his shoulders. “I wouldn’t want to disrupt your practice, sir,” he replied coolly, following his stretch by bending forward to grasp his ankles.

Ryuhou felt the hostility in his company’s voice, even if he was trying to hide it. But he didn’t reply, knowing better than to antagonize the boy further. Instead he moved purposefully across the room while tugging a sleeveless training shirt over his head. He picked out a space for him to conduct his own stretches. “I don’t have your Alter,” he said evenly, catching the boy’s gaze for only a moment. “I’m not going to try to tell you how to use it. But your Alter is only as powerful as it is useful, as I’ve found. We might be able to help each other in that regard.”

He’s not just going to leave. Frustrated, Tachibana straightened and faced the other. I’m sure once we start, he’ll find plenty of things to tell me about how to use my Alter. But he couldn’t deny that, just maybe, on a very small chance, he could possibly improve. Tachibana squared his shoulders and lifted his chin—the last thing he wanted was to look weak. “All right then. What did you have in mind? Sir,” he added as almost an afterthought.

Ryuhou waved his hand dismissively. “Don’t worry about it. And I thought we might as well just get started.” He tipped his head slightly in a bow, and without another word spun suddenly, aiming a roundhouse kick to Tachibana’s left shoulder.

“Hey—!” Tachibana ducked away, startled by the sudden attack—he’d been expecting an Alter battle, not a street fight. He didn’t have the chance to complain, as Ryuhou continued his advance, and it was all the younger boy could do to keep those fists and feet off of him. Damnit, I don’t work like this—I work on my Alter! I can’t--

His distraction and lack of skills caught up with him quickly, and he took a hard punch to his jaw. He was spun nearly in a full circle before dropping to his knees with a curse. Damnit! This isn’t how I fight!

Ryuhou took a step back, allowing the boy time to breathe and collect himself. He wasn’t surprised; Tachibana’s response to him had been fairly predictable. It only showed the flaws in HOLY’s training techniques, that an officer like Tachibana could be bested with only a show of fists. “You should have blocked that,” he told him, though his voice was neither haughty nor condescending.

Tachibana glared as he forced himself to his feet. “I’m not some street-fighting punk,” he shot back, rubbing at his jaw. “I thought we were going to use our Alters.” He should have warned me if he was going to do that. It wasn’t fair. He brushed at his shirt as if to straighten out his ruffled dignity. “You should have said you wanted a brawl.”

Ryuhou’s eyes narrowed slightly as he clenched his fists once more. “Then use your Alter,” he replied simply. I don’t train for fun—I don’t fight halfway. That’s not how you get strong. He slid into a stance, more for Tachibana’s benefit than his own—warning him, before he struck again with another swift kick.

Cursing some more, Tachibana met the attacks evenly, better prepared this time. I’m not using it if he’s not, he thought stubbornly, inflamed that the man would even suggest such a thing; he wasn’t so weak that he needed his Alter to help him with a fist-fight. This time, he was able to defend whatever he couldn’t avoid, but Ryuhou didn’t give him any opening for an attack.

He got fed up. When another high kick came for his head and he wasn’t fast enough to block it, Tachibana found his sight flaring with bright green light as one of his spheres appeared and blocked the hit for him. Growling in frustration, he called up several others to try and chase the elder boy back.

Ryuhou fell back, managing to avoid the spheres until Tachibana recalled them. Good. That’s better. “You shouldn’t hold back,” he said approvingly. “Our duty is to combat Alter Users, but the truth is we never really know what we’ll be up against. Don’t let your pride ever hold you back.” He stood a little taller. “Though if you’d prefer I use my Alter as well, I don’t mind.”

Damn bastard. But he only nodded shortly, feeling like he’d already lost any respect he might have had left after being punched. His eight spheres were spinning in a slow circle even with his waist, this time with more control than when he’d started. If he’s going to call it…. His fists curled slightly. Why should I bother waiting? He never gave any warning. That settled, he sent his Alter at the older soldier, not giving him the chance to call his own Alter first.

Ryuhou dodged back, blocking a few of the spheres against his forearms—their size made them sting more than a strike from a fist would have, and he couldn’t help a wince as he retreated. His Alter flashed into place a moment later to defend from the rest. He stayed behind Zetsuei until the rest of the spheres were batted aside. And already, he’s gained more control. My methods aren’t wrong. Not allowing for too long of a break he guided Zetsuei into an attack, aiming its ribbon-like tentacles at Tachibana’s feet.

Tachibana danced out of the way, spheres changing target to swarm over the newly appeared Alter. After a moment, though, he had to call them back—he wasn’t doing enough damage, and it was getting too difficult to concentrate on an attack while he was trying to dodge. They’re…too fast…. Frowning, he raised his hands in a circle, guiding his Alter into a shield. He’s just--

The shield proved to be the wrong move, as Zetsuei’s ribbons easily wove around it as a blast couldn’t do. One struck his arm, another his leg, and Tachibana cursed as he had to retreat again. Damnit! The sharp stinging in his limbs shook him; that wavering of concentration shattered his barrier, and one ribbon broke through and slapped him sharply across the face.

Ryuhou recalled his Alter when it was clear Tachibana wouldn’t be able to deflect his attacks further, and Zetsuei pulled back obediently to his side. He was pleased, though; Tachibana had shown a great deal of control and originality in even their short duel. He nodded shortly in a show of respect, even if his company didn’t look like he was entirely paying attention. “Tachibana.”

Cupping a hand to his face, Tachibana kept his head turned. His spheres were hovering around him. Hurts…. He tried to pull himself back together, straightening his back even as his eyes stung and trying to organize his Alter into a circle around him—it refused, quivering faintly in the air. Growling, he reached out to snatch one of them, and it crumbled in his fingers. I can’t really be this weak—I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t even come close.

Zetsuei faded away as its master stepped forward. “Tachibana,” he said again, a not quite as sharply. Use that frustration—that pain—if it will make you stronger. He offered his hand once he was close enough. “It was a good match.”

Tachibana glanced down at the offered hand, then up to Ryuhou’s face. He was tempted to refuse flat out, but…Ryuhou almost looked serious. Glancing away, he rubbed at his cheek. “I couldn’t do anything,” he replied lowly. Damnit, why can’t I just stay mad? I can’t be weak, I don’t want his pity. His fingers curled. I…really couldn’t do anything.

“If that were true, you wouldn’t be standing,” Ryuhou replied simply. He didn’t want to brag, but Tachibana should have been proud to last against his superior—there were not many who could. He did, however, drop his hand. “Thanks for the match. If you’d like to continue your training alone, I can leave.”

“No. I’ll leave.” Running a hand through his damp hair, Tachibana glanced again at the elder, not meeting his eyes. He headed towards his bag and clothing, trying to keep his chin raised despite the ache in his face. As he scooped up his towel, he glanced back at Ryuhou, the last of his anger melting away.

Ryuhou watched him, his gaze calm and even. “You don’t have to go,” he offered. He didn’t like the idea of Tachibana sulking off to bed as if he hadn’t accomplished anything here—the boy didn’t seem to realize the remarkable degree of control he’d shown in their fight. “If you wanted to train some more. I don’t mind.”

He didn’t want to hesitate, but he did. His fingers curled around course fabric as he fought a furious debate with himself. He can’t mean train with him, though. None of the others ever want to train together. “I’ll get in your way,” he replied, almost testing, watching Ryuhou closely.

Ryuhou blinked. “I offered, didn’t I? If you do, I’ll have only myself to blame.” He turned away, doing a few more stretches—his arms were still stinging from the hits he’d taken earlier. “Besides, that’s hardly an issue if we’re working together. Unless you prefer to train alone.” I wouldn’t mind having a partner, for once.

“Oh.” He blinked, momentarily thrown off by the blatant answer, and in his confusion the towel slipped back to floor. He…really wants to. Tachibana scratched his head, fingers pausing on the hot skin on his cheek. Maybe…. Raising his chin and straightening, he moved back towards the other, watching his stretching with interest. “All right then. But you’d better make it worth it,” he added, slowly gaining back his confidence.

Ryuhou’s eyes widened a little, amused, as he discreetly rubbed his forearm—there was going to be a sizable bruise. Even after all I told him about always giving your strongest, I underestimated him. “I’ll try not to disappoint,” he offered coolly. At last he faced Tachibana squarely, trying to decide where to start. I want him to be stronger. “Would you rather train your body or your Alter? It seems you’ve been neglecting the former.”

Tachibana flushed darkly. “I’m not a street fighter,” he replied stiffly. “I learned other ways to fight other than punching at sticks and stones like some barbarian.” He straightened out his T-shirt with a bit more dignity. He unconsciously took up a similar ready position, half expecting Ryuhou to come after him without warning again.

“You may think that way,” Ryuhou replied evenly, “but if you’d had some greater training, you might have at least been able to block the punch I gave you earlier. It left you at a disadvantage during our Alter fight.” He held back from saying more; he didn’t want to sound like he was lecturing. “In any case, your Alter is a part of your body—by building up your physical stamina you increase your Alter abilities as well.”

He’d…never really considered that, and for a moment he thought those words over. If Ryuhou was right, then he had a lot more work to do. But he’s willing to work with me--at least for now--so maybe I can take advantage of this. Tachibana nodded. “All right. I suppose if we’re going to be fighting barbarians outside the city, I’d better know how to fight like that anyway.”

Ryuhou wasn’t sure if he should be insulted by all this talk of barbarians and street fighters—it had been his style of training all along. I don’t want to hurt him, though, and like this there is a possibility. Maybe he’ll be insulted by this, but…. “Don’t be afraid to use your Alter, if you want,” he offered seriously. “It’s part of your instinct, and you’ll need to learn to trust it. That’s part of what this is about.”

Tachibana grinned slightly, curling his fists. “Don’t you be afraid,” he returned. I’ll make him call his out. Maybe not today, but I will. I’ll force him to call Zetsuei one day, when he can’t easily beat me. He took up a basic defensive stance as his heart began to race a bit.

Ryuhou slid into a stance of his own, his own eyes gleaming in anticipation as he began the exercise. He started slow at first, testing the self-defense training all HOLY officers were required to take as a part of their basic skills. When he was satisfied that Tachibana was keeping up with his punches he sped up a little, adding a few combined kicks. He has good reflexes—he has the instinct. He just needs to trust them. “Attack me,” he said across their passing limbs. “Come on.”

Tachibana took his time, though, waiting for a moment when he thought the other’s defenses were lower. He didn’t connect, but it had been nearly. His confidence rose, and as they continued to battle he took openings when he could, even scoring once or twice, though he was still taking more hits. It’s not so bad. He’s really good, but he’s holding back, I think. But…I don’t mind. He’s not pitying me. Strangely, he was even beginning to enjoy the mock-battle.

They fought for some time, exchanging blows, as Ryuhou gradually increased their shared pace. He was only dimly aware that they were moving across the floor—Tachibana was being driven back. He hadn’t intended it, which may have only spoken to the effectiveness of his instinct, but he suddenly found his opponent backed into a corner. He started to pull back—to give the boy some room to maneuver a counter attack—but a fist caught him in the stomach. Without thinking he forced Tachibana into the corner once more, pinning his wrists and planting his feet to prevent another strike. It took only a moment and then they were stopped; he felt a little light-headed from the exercise, and was gasping for breath.

Realizing they were stopping a moment, Tachibana fell still as he tried to gain back his own breath. That…was great. He smiled faintly to himself, feeling suddenly proud. I lasted longer that time. Raising his eyes caused him to pause, as he realized just how close they were, and a small quiver went through his skin.

Ryuhou was leaning towards him so their noses were practically touching, and as they both panted and gasped, Tachibana found they were nearly breathing into the other—he could almost even taste the other. He choked and held his breath. I…what? Wait, when did…. His eyes widened slightly.

Ryuhou didn’t realize at first how close they were, until a bead of sweat slid down the side of his nose; he blinked down at Tachibana with confusion. “Oh…sorry,” he apologized awkwardly, slipping back a step. He’d put more effort into their fight than he’d realized, and he was still fighting to bring his breath under control. He’s good, for the level he’s at. And he’ll get better. He swept at his sweat-dampened hair. “That was pretty good.”

Tachibana leaned into the wall, his gaze sharply focused on the elder boy. “Yes, it was,” he agreed absently. No, it’s not like that. It’s just from the workout—that’s why I’m so tense. God, he smells good. Gasping a bit, he quickly shook his head, banishing the thoughts as he wiped his forehead. Still, he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the other’s damp body, the curve of his shoulders….

Ryuhou took another step back; the atmosphere was suddenly thick and tense between them, and he wasn’t sure what had happened. He swallowed uncomfortably. Why is he looking at me like that? Why am I…. He glanced away. “I think that’s probably enough for tonight.”

Finally turning his gaze away, Tachibana nodded. “All right.” He forced strength into his legs and back despite his bruises and moved back towards his abandoned towel. “It’s pretty late, anyway,” he added, “and I have early lectures.” Scooping up the towel, he began to wipe at his moistened flesh, finally just peeling his shirt off to better dry himself.

“Right….” Ryuhou glanced after him and paused, his eyes drawn to the slightly smaller figure. He wasn’t sure what had come over them, but the air was still anxious, and he found himself watching too closely the shift of muscles beneath Tachibana’s skin. He shook himself a moment later and returned to his own locker, gathering his things. In an attempt to lighten the mood he started to speak, only to realize his voice was going on without the words he’d planned. “Maybe we should train again sometime; I’m glad you take it so seriously.”

“I’d like that,” he replied, then silently cursed to have agreed so easily. Though…he did want to train with the elder boy again. It would be worth it if he could get stronger. “I usually come here late, when there’re not a lot of others around.” Tachibana draped his towel across his shoulders and turned to face his superior. “I’m sure we’ll run into each other again,” he said with a bit more confidence.

“It’s not that big of an academy,” Ryuhou replied easily, though he felt something of a quiver in him when Tachibana looked at him like that. He shook it quickly aside. “But yes, you’re probably right. In that case…until then.” He then turned back to his locker, stripping out of his shirt so he could cover himself at least with his jacket for the walk back to his quarters.

Tachibana watched a moment more, not bothering to conceal the focus of his gaze, before finally turning towards the door. “Until then,” he echoed, waving over his shoulder as he exited.

Ryuhou…. I look forward to it.

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