Chapter Text
|Epilogue|
Bittersweet summer rain
I'm born again, mmm
lianna la havas | bittersweet
June, six months later
“Does anyone know where my earrings are?” Keiji asked for the third time, tone verging towards annoyed. He had set them down on his vanity and yet moments later they were gone, not amongst the clutter crowding the table.
“Here, here I have them!” Bokuto cries out, palms out to show off two gold stones. “I held onto them, so you didn’t lost ‘em.”
Said annoyance melts from Akaashi as he regards Bokuto, shifting his wrist to scent Bokuto’s when he takes the earrings from him, his scent powdery and soft. “Thank you, Kou. I’d kiss you if I weren’t wearing any makeup.”
Bokuto grins. “Then you owe me a kiss at the end of the night, okay? Two kisses!”
Akaashi nods in agreement, smiling.
The day was as hectic as Akaashi expected it to be. He had thought he’d be more nervous, but he felt oddly calm, excited even.
The last few months surely make this day sweeter.
First, days after Akaashi had return, he says in the inner city, bowing deeply to the crowd that had gathering.
“I apologize deeply for my absence,” Akaashi had started. I apologize that I made you all feel as if you had been abandoned by one of your leaders.”
Apologizing was the easy part. Letting the people know the state of their leadership was not.
Of course, there was outrage when his father stood next and revealed the truth; his adultery, the distrust he created in his union, which affected his family. There were gasps, cries of anger, shouts of pure anger and disbelief.
“In that, the Royal Court decided that it would be best that I, Akaashi Sora, step down from my position as King. I have dishonored the crown for long enough. I leave it in the hands of my son, Akaashi Keiji, to not only redeem his father, but this nation.”
Akaashi hadn’t been pleased with the direction of his father’s words. But it’s what the court decided was best. Not only should his father take responsibility, but he should make a show and emphasis of Akaashi condemning him. Akaashi hated that it seemed like an act of moral superiority, but the group of elders demanded it and his father agreed without compliant.
The next task was speaking to his courtship. This would be achieved in two parts.
They waited on announcing it, however. The wanted to news to settle in, the unorthodox manner of transition of power being announced was jarring to the Fukurodani people, right after Akaashi’s nearly three-month long disappearance. Akaashi waited to hear the gossip and conclusions the people were settling on.
It was mostly accepted. It seemed the people weren’t that shock that royals were engaging in acts of adultery, because royals were humans too. Some were shocked that the man, whose nickname was “The Gentle King” could do such a thing to his wife, his children. There were some who question why a harsher punishment wasn’t delivered.
There were rapid knocks at the door before it swung open, revealing Kuroo who came rushing in.
“Please tell them to stop, Keiji! I can’t take much more of this!”
“Sir, we haven’t finish cinching-” one of the handmaids assigned to fitting Kuroo for the coronation came in after him.
“If you cinch me in anymore, I won’t have a stomach to speak of!” Kuroo says. He turns back, looking at the prince pleadingly. “The day has hardly started. I won’t be able to keep even water down this way!”
Akaashi huffs out a laugh behind his hand. “Thank you for your help.” He directs the handmaid. “Is that his coat?” He says, nodding towards the item in her arms.
“Yes. This is the last of his garments.”
“Alright then. I’ll see to it that he’s probably dressed.” Akaashi promises. She bows in thanks, before headed out, closing the door behind her.
Kuroo sags in relief, groaning as he takes a seat on the bed. “Thank you, thank you.”
“Bro you’re being dramatic!” Bokuto says, bouncing over to the alpha. “I’ve got one on too and it’s perfect!” He makes a show of twirling in his outfit, clearly excited. He was happy that his request for a short cape with furred lining was accepted, his favorite part. He had the front open, which accented the type of corset style he adorned. His was a bustier, black and cut below his chest, hugging his waist.
“Yeah, Tetsurou,” Akaashi adds on, standing beside Bokuto to ruffling his hair. “You should be a good boy like Kou without complaining.” The prince chimes while Bokuto outright purrs under the praise, shuffling closer into Akaashi’s touch.
Kuroo looks at the fellow alpha up and down, then his gaze settles at Bokuto’s chest. “His tits look like they're going to pop out of his blouse.”
Bokuto, completely scandalized, covers his chest as if he was actually exposed. “It does not!” He retorts.
“Don’t cover, by all means.” Kuroo smirks. “I don’t mind the view.”
“No, leave me alone.” Bokuto pouts, dropping his cape, chest covered completely.
“Don’t be crude.” Akaashi admonishes. He steps towards Kuroo, smoothing out his collar. His blouse is cream, embroidered with thin glimmering lines of gold. The item cinching him in was stark silver vest with traditional Fukurodani patterning, laced tightly at the back. In melted into his grey trousers, which hugged his legs well. He wore a pin to his chest, over his heart. A courting gift Akaashi had given to the three of them. There wasn’t a day that Akaashi had seen the alpha take it off. It made him smile. “You look quite handsome.”
Kuroo’s eyes sparkle at the compliment, reaching out to grab Akaashi at the hip, pulling the omega closer and between his legs. “As do you, my prince. Or should I say my king?”
Akaashi grins, sly. “Hmm, it does have quite a ring to it. But I’ve always preferred when you call me princess, alpha.”
Akaashi preens at the flash of teeth he sees, Kuroo grumbling in approval at the omega’s insinuation. “Hardly think it’s appropriate if the people of Fukurodani found out what I call their king in private.”
Akaashi scoffs. “As if you care for decorum.”
Kuroo grins, even sharper, squeezing Akaashi harder. “Touché.”
The winter past. Spring came slowly. And Akaashi stood in front of his people, once again. If his father stepping down was shocking, then the soon to be king of Fukurodani standing next to the current king of Nekoma truly knocked witnesses off their feet.
“For years, our two countries stood on opposing ends, with an agreement instated that would mark permanent separation of our nations. But as we now know, my own mother was a citizen of the abundant land of Nekoma. Which means that I have claim to it. Nekoma is in my blood. And it was love and acceptance that led my mother here. She, Haiba Ai, Duchess of Nekoma, should be an example of our joint future.”
The Nekoma King added his part as well, and a new declaration was amended, all with policies of trade and open borders between the two nations. They sealed their words with a handshake, roars of applause and cheers coming from the people watching.
In a matter of days, the months of whispers about his father’s scandal seem to vanish in an instant, all of the papers and chatter about the “Golden Boy prince” and how he was picking up right where he left off, seeking the betterment of his people.
“Today of all days you should at least try to keep your hands to yourself.” Akaashi turns to face Tsukishima’s voice, the blonde appearing from the bathroom. He’s looking at Kuroo as he speaks, pointedly at his hands which were roaming lowering and lowering, cupping at Akaashi’s backside.
“I ain’t doing anything my omega doesn’t like.” Kuroo says teasingly.
Tsukishima shifts his gaze to Akaashi, just as unimpressed. “You let him get away with too much.”
Akaashi laughs good-naturedly, pulling away from Kuroo much to the alpha’s disappointment. “You’re right. But I can’t help it, he’s just so charming.”
“Don’t say that. His head is big enough.” Tsukishima grumbles.
The beta’s outfit was like Kuroo’s, a matching grey vest but with a black blouse and trousers underneath. It was decided that he’d be standing between Kuroo and Bokuto, so they had his outfit stand out, much to the blonde’s dismay.
His hair was what was most different. It was gelled back with pomade, styled and gave Tsukishima an older, more refined appearance. There was no way of taming Kuroo’s hair; the most they were able to do was cut his ends. And with Bokuto... he was adamant on styling it as he always had and there was no way of dissuading him.
The handmaids gushed over the beta. From complimenting the softness of his hair to his fair skin and lean form, it was like they were playing dress up with him. Tsukishima wasn’t fond of it, but he hadn't complain through the process of choosing his clothes and hairstyle, taking it in stride.
“You just let them treat you like a doll.” Akaashi says, patting Tsukishima’s chest. The beta scoffs.
“Just wanted to look my best for you.” He replies genuinely, a soft flush to his cheeks. Akaashi’s heart pounds at the sight.
“Remind me later that I owe both you and Koutarou a kiss.” He says, Tsukishima nodding happily.
And lastly, in May, Akaashi declares a new law.
“It must be said,” Akaashi begins, feeling his hands shake, clutching the piece of paper in his hands, “that Fukurodani is a land of harmony, salvation and community. We pride ourselves on being authentic in our expression and embracing what comes to us in life. How can we, the Fukurodani Royalty, declare what is unlawful to you when it is a part of nature?” Akaashi takes in a deep breath.
“Nekoma believes in a tale of soulmates. It was taught to me by an alpha and I'd like to share this story with you.
“A man was trying to find a flower that would cure his sick mother. But he found himself lost in the woods. A songbird came and helped him until he got to a river. Then a fish in the river helps him cross. Then a mountain cat on the other side of the river helped him up the mountain. It had become night and an owl helped him find the flower in the darkness. There the patch of flowers had become a woman. The man was enthralled with her, and they talked all night. Before the night was over, they were mates. It was then that the man remembered what he had come for and asked the woman if she’s seen such flowers. She promises to give one to him, if he promises to bring her down to the forest.”
As they go, they meet the owl, who promises to help them through the dark if the pair brings him to the forest. They agree. They find the mountain cat, who promises to help them down the mountain if they bring her two the forest. So, then there were four. This fish promises to help them across the river if they take them to the forest. Then there were five. And the first songbird who helped the man sings sweetly, asking if he found what he needed. He tells the songbird he had and invites him home with the others.
“The flower ended up healing his mother and the man made a mate of every single creature he found. A pack. An act of kinship. This is why the nation’s flowers are red hibiscus, and their animals are felines. The symbol of peace is a songbird, the main trade is fish. And where does Fukurodani fit into this? We’re the owls of course.” Akaashi says with an easy smile, the crowd bursting into laughter and applause.
“If the point of the story wasn’t clear, Fukurodani has laws against the recognition of multi-member packs, courtship and unions. It is unharmonious and misaligned with the values of Fukurodani. It affects not only your individuals status but household structures and autonomy. In the Hibiscus Act, instated as of May 11 th , today these amendments will honor the union of parties creating packs more than three members, platonic, romantic or otherwise.”
Although Akaashi thinks Kuroo’s wording was crude, he has people eating out of the palm of his hand. Handwritten letters and flowers littered the front of the palace gates daily. Small mobs would form to see the prince when he was traveling to nearby cities. There were even talks of a bronze statue being erected in his name (which he was vehemently opposed to).
The was a softer, slower knock at the door. Akaashi called for them to enter, but was shocked to see his stepmother, Yuri, appearing behind the door.
She looked as regal as she always did. Her jet black hair was pulled into a tight bun, decorated with jeweled pins and ornaments. Her dress was floor-length and a steel silver, with a matching silk shawl held up by her arms.
The room quiets as she fully steps into the room. If Akaashi was a stranger he’d think Yuri was completely unbothered. But by the slow pace of her walk, the discreet shifts in her stare, Akaashi would dare to say she was nervous.
“Akaashi-kun, good morning.” She says. Now the endearment was quite a shock. The shock must’ve been apparent on his face, for she laughs lightly, standing before him. She holds out her hand, motioning for the earrings that Akaashi still hadn’t put in.
“Yuri-san. Good morning.” He says quietly.
“Let me help.” She says. Akaashi drops the earring in her hold.
“You all,” Akaashi says, turning to the three men, who were not so discreetly glaring at his stepmother. “Would you give us a moment alone?”
“Not a chance.” Kuroo’s response is instant.
‘I think it’s best if we stay.” Tsukishima follows up.
“I rather not.” Bokuto concludes.
Akaashi sighs, equally parts fond and resigned. “As you future king, I’m not asking.” He says with a firm glare. “Now shoo. It’ll be just a moment.”
The three head out in a single line, grumbling all the way. “Can’t believe you pulled that card on us.” Bokuto says, pouting at Akaashi. The prince laughs, watching as they close the door behind them.
Yuri nears, even closing to beginning putting Akaashi’s earrings in. “You all are quite close. They’re very... over protective of you.”
Akaashi nods with a smile. “Quite.”
Silence lapses over them. Akaashi listens to their breathing, feels the touch of his stepmother’s cold hands as he looks to the wall in front of him, hands clasped over his stomach.
“I remember once when you were a child, and Reo was barely two,” Yuri starts, moving on to Akaashi’s other ear. “And I was busy speaking to a housekeeper. Reo had ended up putting something in his mouth, I can’t quite remember what it was. I’ll be honest, I was high strung and not paying as much attention as I should have. But you caught it, and you pulled it out of his mouth before he could swallow, or worse, choked on it. You showed it to me, and I dropped to my knees and cried. I held you both. I had been too careless, and it would have been costly.”
She steps away from Akaashi, but places her hands on his shoulders. “I don’t think I could ever forgive your father. A part of me knew that, all those years back when I first found out. Even then I had known I couldn’t forgive him. But I stuck it through. Because I was taught that it was what an omega should do. Stand besides, behind her alpha. I had only ever told my sisters. I couldn’t tell my parents; that would have sent them into an early grave.” Yuri huffs out a laugh. “My sisters told me to bear it. And my cousins, they had it worse than me. But your father was kind, a leader, a good alpha. So why should I complain?’
“Because it wasn’t right,” Akaashi insisted. “No one—omega, beta, alpha—no person should have to go through that pain.”
“I know,” Yuri agrees. “And clearly, I could not handle it. It festered. I didn’t take my anger out on your father, I took it out on you. I hurt you... made you feel small because I felt small. And it never made me feel better. But more importantly, it never worked. It never made you small. And I am so grateful for that.”
Yuri’s hands shake as she cups Akaashi’s face, so gently. It reminds him of when he was a child and she used to grip his and Reo’s cheeks in her hands, teasing as she tried to determine who had the pudgiest face. He thinks about how long it’s been since he’s felt a touch this tender from Yuri.
“I am so sorry, Akaashi.” She gasps, tears lining her brown eyes. “I made you suffer, for years I made you the target of my scorn. I slapped you yet you gave me your other cheek.” She sobs. “Y-You’re so kind, but... How could you ever forgive a woman like me?”
Akaashi feels his eyes water too as he smiles. He takes a tissue from his breast pocket, forming a pointed tip. “Easily. I don’t think I could have done what you did for your mate. And even if you didn’t seen me as a son. I a-always saw you as my mother.” Akaashi holds it to Yuri’s eyes, keeping the tears from ruining her makeup.
Yuri’s chin wobbles. “Keiji, you are my son. If you’ll have me, you are my first, beautiful little boy.”
Their foreheads knock together as they lean in, smiling, the air sweet with their scents. Akaashi’s chest ache as he grabs his mother’s hands, Yuri squeezing tightly in return.
.
.
Keiji looks so beautiful. Bokuto thinks.
He stands with furred floor length cap dragging behind him as he walked, shaking hands with the citizens of Fukurodani. Surrounding him was a flutter of cherry blossoms, falling into his jet black hair and on his shoulders. His chest is pinned with dozens of glimmering gold pins, all with a different meaning. Bokuto would be sure to ask about them later.
The coronation was long, as he expects. A bunch of older men going on and on about the history of the country, why the royal seat was so important. Bokuto already knew all of this because Akaashi had taught him and he was much more enjoyable to listen to.
Bokuto’s favorite part was when Akaashi was sworn in, as he recited the words Tsukishima helped him memorized, as he said a few words of his own, promises to make Fukurodani an even greater country.
Kuroo, Tsukishima and Bokuto were standing to the side, considered witnesses, beside Reo, Yuri and the former King, who had the honor of crowning Akaashi.
Akaashi, as he turns to face the people, his gaze briefly lands on his mates, lands on Bokuto.
He thinks back to the first time he ever saw the prince, in a photo at a festival. He was 15 years old then yet seemed so much older, held down by the burden of his responsibilities.
Now there was a distinct fire, something bold behind his eyes. He smiled and it felt so genuinely, so proud. Bokuto, with his hands behind his back, felt his fingers squeeze, felt his heart pound. As discreetly as possible, he looked to his left, and Kuroo was already looking back at him, a grin on his face.
.
.
Kuroo felt like he couldn’t take his eyes off of Akaashi.
He’d be in the middle of conversation with Reo or attempting to loosen his clothes and his gaze would always come back to the omega.
Sometimes, it didn’t feel real.
No, they are not official mates to Akaashi. Akaashi, along with both his brother and father, decided that they would wait for such a declaration, being that it would change the very foundation of Fukurodani’s royal court.
“And,” Sora adds, narrowing his eyes at the three men, “You’ve got to prove that you can take care of a King, my son. I except nothing less,”
“Dad,” Akaashi actually whines, covering his face.
“Yeah,” Reo doubles down, crossing his arms over his chest. “Aniki deserves the best! Courting, gifts, the whole works!”
“Please stop, I’m begging.” Akaashi curls into himself further, red to his ears.
Kuroo grins, throwing an arm over the embarrassed omega, kissing his forehead. “I’ll woo you for as long as it takes.”
And Kuroo meant that. The courting has been both sweet and challenging. It was a slow and sure process deciding how’d they do this. What was the explanation of three Nekoma citizens now living within the castle of all places? Much to everyone’s dismay, the three had to sleep separate from Akaashi after their first official night because it was “unbecoming of both and royal and an omega.” Kuroo wanted to rebuff by letting the Court know exactly what unbecoming things he did to their precious so-to-be king, but that’d probably dig them into a deeper whole.
Lastly, Akaashi had brought up if the three even wanting to live in Fukurodani.
“Kuroo and Bokuto, you two are born and raised in Nekoma and have lived there your whole life. Tsukishima, I’d be asking you to uproot your life for the second time. Where most of your friends and family are. Where your jobs and livelihoods are. We won’t be properly mated and a pack of four for quite some time. I’m offering that it might be easier to stay in Nekoma until then.” Akaashi explains.
The three look amongst each other, all considering the omega’s words. “But who would be here with you if the three of us were to leave?” Bokuto asked.
Akaashi blanches, then laughs lightly. “That doesn’t matter when-”
“It absolutely does matter.” Tsukishima interrupts. “You’ve been around us consistently for three months and since you’ve been back, we’ve been scenting you. You’ll be touch-starved in a week’s time.”
Akaashi’s face twists. “Well what about you all? Your work and family are important to you. What’s important to you is important to me.”
“Akaashi,” Kuroo stresses. “You’re what’s important to us. You are our priority right now. I can speak for all of us when we say we don’t want you out of our sight, let alone a country away.”
“And you’ve been through a lot!” Bokuto adds. “And you’ll probably have more on your plate in the next few months. It’s already May, you’ll be king in less than 30 days!”
“It’s important that you’re supported through all of that. And we want to be there for you. As your mates. A piece of paper detailing that doesn’t mean anything.” Tsukishima concludes.
So, they sold the house, they told their friends, not the full truth but enough to still shock them. It was emotional, hard but so worth it to see the look on Akaashi’s face when they returned with all their belongings, the omega leading them to their room.
What was the real test, however, was hiding their affection.
When they went out as a group, Akaashi leading them into town and towards his favorite shops, Kuroo had to restrain himself from grabbing Akaashi’s hand or calling him anything but Akaashi-sama.
Bokuto was even worse, getting pulled back by his collar whenever he was leaning in to kiss Akaashi on the cheek, or worse, scent Akaashi right in the middle of the square.
Even Tsukishima, the most composed of all, faltered in moments he wanted to step closer to Akaashi when they walked or would bare his teeth to anyone who walked to close, who wasn’t pack. The beta would catch himself, mortified and groan in embarrassment.
In terms of work: Well, they all got jobs in the castle of course.
Tsukishima was always the first out of bed, heading into the kitchen more the ready to learn as much as he could from the seasoned chefs. He was more of baker than a cook but was a fast learner and adamant on sharpening his skills. Plus, he was more than pleased whenever Akaashi found out that he was the one behind meals, thanking the beta with a kiss on the cheek.
Bokuto found himself in the gardens whenever the weather was good. He’d listen to Akaashi tell stories about the flowers native to Fukurodani and studied from the books the omega had readily available. Ushijima and Hinata made sure to visit, and Bokuto and Ushijima fell into a conversation about herbalism, both of them passionate despite the latter’s stoic expression.
Speaking of visits, Akaashi had taken them for a trip, partly as a courting gift, being that Bokuto and Kuroo have never left the country of Nekoma (Tsukishima calls the bumpkins for this, fondly) and partly so they could meet the men who had helped them.
Ukai was a blunt, almost abrasive alpha was clearly had a soft spot for Akaashi. He made the omega tea (and snapped at Kuroo “make some yourself” when the alpha asked for some) and asked to be told all the little details of his journey, how Shiratorizawa was, how long did it take, etc. Kuroo couldn’t even be upset by the interaction. Akaashi was a magnet, connective, a sort of energy that drew others in.
One their way out, Akaashi attempts to leave the man with a gift, which the older alpha attempts to refuse.
“Just take it, Ukai-san.” Tsukishima says dryly. “He’s stubborn and won’t take no for an answer.
Akaashi emphasizes this by placing the hefty envelope in the shop owner's hands. Ukai sighs, defeated.
“You helped me out when I was only a stranger to you. I truly appreciate it. Truly.” Akaashi bows, smiling crinkling his eyes.
Ukai ruffles his hair, giving a small smile of his own. “And I’d do it again. You make Fukurodani a good place, kid.”
After, they were off to Johzenji. “They have a lovely bathhouses, amazing shops and you’ll get to meet Terushima.” Akaashi explains
“Bathhouse, bathhouse!” Bokuto cheers.
When Akaashi spots the Johzenji native, he waves him over. The alpha rushes towards him, scooping the omega in his arms. He kisses Akaashi joyfully and passionately, the omega squeals as he’s lifted off the ground.
“Terushima-san!” Akaashi says, breathless as he’s place back on the ground.
Kuroo goes red in the face, rolling up his sleeves as he advances forward. “I’m gonna kill ‘im.”
Bokuto pulls him back. “You can’t, you can’t! Keiji said that’s his friend!”
“Oh, so friends who kiss each other?” Tsukishima dryly. “I say let Tetsu have at it.”
“Maybe they’re really affectionate here? Like, culture customs and whatnot?” Bokuto says unsurely, trying to laugh through the tension
The blonde licks his lips. “You look even better than I remember.” To add more salt to injury, the alpha grabs the omega closer, by the waist, as if he were going to kiss the omega. Again.
Bokuto’s smile completely drops, as well as his hold on Kuroo. “You know what? Get him, Tetsurou.”
But before the alpha could do so, Terushima was getting smacked around by Akaashi and... a stranger? Both administering brain-rattling smacks to Terushima’s head.
Akaashi smiles. “Misaki-san, nice to see you again.”
The stranger, Misaki, with brown hair and eyes grins, all while pulling at the earlobe the alpha, who whines. “You too, Akaashi-kun!”
After that spectacle of an introduction, the pack spends three days in the vibrant city, exploring the shops during the day and walking amongst the nightlife once the sun sets. Though the three weren’t the biggest fans of Terushima, they enjoyed how carefree Akaashi was during his time in the city, how the four of them felt normal to be affectionate without as much worry.
When they returned to Fukurodani, Kuroo found it a little harder to find his place, a means of work. He was hunter. But the palace had more than enough means of getting meat and furs. It wasn’t something they needed him to supply.
“Do you have any hobbies?” Akaashi had asked him. “Anything you wish you had more time for?”
Kuroo mumbles something and Akaashi asked him to repeat himself. “I like to dance.”
Akaashi’s eyes light up. “Really! Well, that’s not surprising. You are quite a good dancer if I can remember.”
Kuroo smiles. “I used to dance with my mom all the time. She danced for a living. She would teach me dances from different countries and cultures. She made it look so easy.”
Akaashi smiles as well, heart tender from the memory. “Well, let's get you some classes hm?”
Kuroo was absolutely shit at it.
It’s been so long since he danced, his body not used to the repetitive motions. The teacher assigned to him was stern, poking and probbing at him, bending his posture over and over again.
He hated it. He loved it.
Akaashi would come by for some of the classes and sometimes if he was familiar, he join in. They had waltzed together, with Akaashi’s lithe fingers adorning his shoulders, his hands at the small of the omega’s back. The step in measured movements, over and over in circles. The room dimmed, Akaashi’s eyes were so green and his scent so pure, as if he was the only thing Kuroo could see.
“Bravo!” The instructor calls out when the finish, Akaashi bowing and pulling Kuroo to do so. “That was the best I’ve ever seen, Kuroo-san.”
Akaashi gives him a lidded gaze and sultry smile, what makes a slow heat burn through Kuroo. “Is that so?”
“Kuroo!” The call of his name has him turning around, facing Bokuto who came his way with food on a place. “Oh, my goodness, please, please, please try this! It’s so good!”
Kuroo couldn’t help how his gaze fell on his alpha’s chest. The tightness of his blouse was absurd, every moment detailed and obvious as he bounced over to Kuroo. He smells so happy, all sweet molasses and pine.
Kuroo just smiles at him, a loss of words for the pure, unaltered joy he feels looking at one of his loves, his best friend. “I love you, Koutarou.”
Bokuto’s eyes and brimming gold, vibrating as he throws his arms around Kuroo’s neck. “I love you too! Now let’s go find Tsukishima. He’s probably sulking because there’s too many people around.”
Kuroo laughs. “Yeah, and since Akaashi’s getting hogged up, he probably has no one to complain about it to.”
.
.
Tsukishima wouldn’t describe himself as a selfish person. But after the coronation, having to share Akaashi with what feels like the whole country of Fukurodani, he was quite literally ready to run off with the omega in hand and hide him away for the next month.
But as day turned to night and the festivities continued, Tsukishima's patience was depleted. Akaashi was once again entertaining a group of people, with his proper charm and adoring smile. Tsukishima in part was impressed by how consistent the omega was, so in his element of optics and mannerisms. But the beta could personally care less for it.
The very moment Akaashi was alone, he was upon him, taking the omega’s hand in his. The king startles but smiles widely when his eyes land on Tsukishima. “Tsukishima-san, pleasure to see you.”
The beta felt his eyes twitch. The formalities were killing him. He never thought he’d yearn to hear his first name, but he felt irritated with how Akaashi had to address him so properly.
“Come,” Tsukishima says, not waiting for a response as he pulls the omega along with him.
As the music fades and Tsukishima rounds the corner, Akaashi speaks up. “Tsukishima-san, are you alright?” The omega asked, voiced dressed in concern.
Tsukishima lets out a long suffering sigh, turning and grabbing Akaashi by the shoulders, pressing him against the wall. His head falls into Akaashi’s shoulder, breathing in the omega’s scent, tongue darting out to lick against the gland.
Akaashi gasps, partly scandalized, some part aroused as he gripped Tsukishima’s sleeves. There’s a ting! that rings when Akaashi’s crown hits against the wall. “Tsukki!” Akaashi whispers.
“Hmmm,” The beta answers, pressing himself closer to the omega. “Please tell me the night is over. Haven’t you entertained enough?”
Akaashi gives a breathy laugh. “Hardly. I am the King, I have to be present for these sorts...” Akaashi’s voice wavers as Tsukishima’s hands lower, tighten and squeeze around his waist, “of events.”
“You don’t even smell like us anymore.” Tsukishima says, undeterred by Akaashi’s words. “I want to take you out of this stuffy clothes and put my marks back on you.”
Akaashi’s eyes flutter close, melting into the embrace. “A-As nice as the sounds, we really should do this here, Tsukishima-san.”
Tsukishima growls. “And I really want you to stop referring to me like that.”
When he pulls away, Akaashi is looking at him with a coy smile, different from before. His hands trail down the front of Tsukishima’s pristine laced vest, looking up at the beta with those green eyes. “And what should I be referring to you as, beta? What do you want me to call you?”
Before Tsukishima could show Akaashi exactly what he wanted, footsteps approach them. The pair turn to see both Bokuto and Kuroo barreling down the hall to them.
“I knew Tsukishima had snuck you away. Tsukki, you little pervert! Attempting to defile the King in his very home!” Kuroo whispers, making a show of prying the beta off of Akaashi.
“Akaashi, are you alright? What did he do to you?!” Bokuto cries, cupping preciously at Akaashi’s cheeks.
Akaashi laughs, laying his hands over Bokuto’s. “Nothing, nothing. Tsukishima’s just feeling lonely, right Kei?”
The blonde crosses his arms, grumbling.
Akaashi smiles at the three of them, pressing into Bokuto. “Well, it has gone well into the night. How do you think we’ll fair sneaking into my room?” He looks towards Tsukishima, a sultry smile dressing his face. “I can’t say not to my beta, can I?”
.
.
The day after the coronation starts with breakfast and Akaashi declaring that they’re going out for a date. “We’ll go for lunch for do as you please till then.” Akaashi says, throwing over a black blouse. He’s only in undergarments, the fabric of his underwear tight around his backside. From the bed, Tsukishima doesn’t respond, simply watching the omega move around the room half-dressed.
Akaashi turns, not hearing a response. He catches Tsukishima’s gaze and smiles. “Well?” He asked.
“Whatever you want.” Tsukishima answers in return. Akaashi hums in response. “What are you doing today? King duties?”
Akaashi giggles. “None for today. Can you imagine? My first day as King as actually no work for a King at all.” He jokes. “I’m having breakfast with my mother.” Akaashi says. Tsukishima makes a face and Akaashi laughs, finally finding his trousers. “Don’t be like that. She quite likes you. And loves the sweets you make.”
“Those aren’t for her.” Tsukishima grumbles. Akaashi gives him a dry look. “Well, whatever. Find us if anything goes awry.”
Akaashi, fully dressed, leans over Bokuto’s sleeping form to give Tsukishima a kiss. “Nothing will go wrong. I’ve forgiven her. She’s changing. I appreciate your worry for me. You’ll just take your time to forgive her too, okay?”
.
.
It’s in the garden that Akaashi feels like he’s falling into love with Bokuto, Kuroo and Tsukishima, all over again.
He teaches them the etiquettes of tea time, how to hold their cups and spoons. “If you’re going to become by mates one day, I have to teach you well manners.” He insists, but his lips are trembling, as if trying to stop himself from laughing.
Bokuto absolutely hates the tea prepared, calling it too “earthy” for his taste. Kuroo keeps talking with his mouth full, getting the brunt of Akaashi’s reprimand. Tsukishima hasn’t said much, because he keeps looking at Akaashi, mesmerized. It makes the omega’s chest flutter.
It’s nearly the end of the June and despite how hot it is, the breeze is pleasant, making being outside bareable. Akaashi’s dressed in cream blouse with a floral ruffled collar. His ears are dripping with emerald jewelry and gold, accenting the color of his eyes. There's a bit of makeup around his eyes and he loves how it shimmers in natural lightning. He stands from his chair, his cloth skirt fluttering around him and landing just over his feet, which were bare, stark and pale against the grass.
“You’re all helpless.” Akaashi says decidedly, pushing in his chair.
“Yeah,” Kuroo snorts. “What ever will I do without tea time knowledge?” He drops a napkin over his empty plate, standing as well.
The three men's style of dress they were used to in Fukurodani had changed drastically. Tsukishima had explained that with how much flour and food he worked with, His had a minimal closet and wore what he wouldn’t mind getting dirty. Bokuto and Kuroo had a similar mindset for their respective fields.
To Akaashi, this posh, clean style fits Kuroo the best. It was made for him. He wore a baby blue dress shirt, tucked loosely into navy trousers, ones that cut right at the ankle. His dress shoes were new and so shiny, but Kuroo claimed they were quite comfortable.
Tsukishima dressed similarly but tried to make it even more causal. Today he would a rich brown short sleeve, what was mostly covered with cream overalls. Akaashi quite like it, for it gave the blonde a boyish, youthful appearance.
Bokuto liked to wear yukatas, more traditional clothing, but obviously very regal and distinguished as were all the clothes they had been given. Today’s his was soft sage green with a forest green band cutting low on his hips. His chest is partly exposed, and Akaashi found himself staring more than he’d like to admit.
Akaashi blinks when Kuroo approahes him, allowing for Kuroo to embraces him, but when the alpha’s mouth goes for his neck, he groans. “Tetsurou, don’t you dare!” Akaashi cries out, stepping away as Kuroo attempts to make a grab at him.
“What, princess?” Kuroo cheeses. “I’m just trying to hold you. What’s wrong with that?”
“Because if you do, you leave a mark. And there’s not enough makeup in the world to cover my neck.” Akaashi rebuts, walking backwards.
“Come on,” Kuroo pleads. “Just a kiss.”
“But that’s the thing. It’s never a kiss.” Akaashi insists.
“Can I have a kiss?!” Bokuto jumps up from his seat with a raised hand.
“Well, Kou. If you help me get my hands on princess here, I’m sure we could both get a kiss from him.”
Bokuto, who loves to follow Kuroo’s lead and is just a bit too easily influenced, jumps at the chance, making a move on Akaashi as well. Akaashi squeals, hands out in an attempt to keep the two grinning alphas away from him, stumbling deeper into the garden.
“Tsukishima, help me!” Akaashi cries out.
“You think my beta is gonna be on your side?” Kuroo says with a manic laugh. “He’s as bad as the rest of us.”
From where he sits at the table, Akaashi catches his gaze of Kuroo’s shoulder, a pleading look on his face.
Tsukishima sighs as he stands to his feet, pushing in his table.
“Akaashi’s right you two,” He starts and he watches as the omega sighs in relief. A rueful smile adorns Tsukishima’s face as he continues. “We’ll definitely mark you when we get our hands on you.”
Akaashi’s jaw drops. “You traitor.”
Tsukishima braces to grab the omega. “No hard feelings.”
Akaashi looks between the three, trying to maintain distance between them. He’s only partly serious, knowing that he has meetings tomrrrow and did not need anyone making comments or rumors to start. Partially however, he enjoyed the attention and was fighting to keep a scowl on his face.
And then. An idea crossed his mind.
“I’ll run.” He says.
It’s quiet for a moment but instantly Kuroo understands, his eyes narrowing. “You wouldn’t dare.” Funny that months before, Kuroo was saying the exact same thing, but to Tsukishima, for the exact same reason.
Akaashi shuffles backwards, eyes a shade of determination. “Oh, but I would.”
“If we catch you, we’ll leave more than just marks.” Tsukishima warns and that gets a shiver up both of his alphas.
“Well, yeah. If you catch me. But I know these gardens better than anyone in the palace. So go ahead and try.” Akaashi taunts.
Akaashi is off without a glance behind, his voice of wild laughter floating through the air. As a child, he raced within the garden's tall green foliage with Reo. On the rare and few occasions where he wanted to hide from his father’s lessons or his stepmother’s lectures, he’d go to the garden, not coming back for hours.
He moves through with ease, hearing the mutterings and footsteps of his mates fading in and out. The smile on his face was so massive it burned his cheeks. “Oh, how will they ever find me!” He shouts.
“Don’t worry about if!” Kuroo cries out. “Worry about when !” He threatens to but it only makes Akaashi giggle, the alpha’s voice sounding even farther away.
It’s a day Akaashi could have never imagined, but the fact that he was here, in the heart of Fukurodani, with three men he was more than just in love with...
Akaashi looked to the sky, above him a tree of white wisteria over his head, petals fluttering in the air. He sighs, heart pounding.
His world has become so sweet.
Bittersweet summer rain,
I'm born again
mmm
|FIN|