Chapter Text
Three Years Later
“Hold it steady!” Daichi yelled out as they all put their weight and strength into holding up the barn walls while others ran around to nail and secure them in place. Daichi’s muscles strained under the heavy weight but he refused to give an inch.
Alyona and Akio, named by the youngest Karasuno prince and his friends, were laying off in the shade. They were fully grown now, big beasts that allowed children to crawl all over them and begged for scraps and ear scratches. Akio was brighter in color than Alyona, he was also slightly bigger. Considering Alyona, when stood up on her back legs, was as tall as Daichi a hairsbreadth or two in added height made little difference. They accompanied Daichi everywhere, now old enough to be able to run beside horses without tiring.
Daichi had learned long ago not to dwell on the past. It never did him any good but he couldn’t help but think about how different things were now. He was still hardened from daily physical labor but instead of training and sparring he was now rebuilding villages and putting up fences around farmlands. He still kept his weapon close and his senses sharpened, they all did because old habits die hard, but they were beginning to believe in the peace they had carved out for themselves.
Everyone cheered as the barn was finally finished some hours later. Daichi allowed the group to be loud and rambunctious. He knew how it felt to finally be able to build something up instead of being the ones to tear it down.
Even with everyone's assistance and the help from other kingdoms, only a fraction of Karasuno had been rebuilt so far. All of the land furthest away from the kingdom was untouched still and Daichi could not blame his peoples hesitation to claim what was rightfully theirs. There was comfort being close to the capital, knowing that if there was another attack help was just a short ride away. It didn’t help that skirmishes still broke out along the border, though they were becoming fewer and further in between.
They had two thriving villages close to the palace that were completely rebuilt and bustling with energy and people. Over a dozen farms had sprouted up around the villages and the old mining village at the bottom of the mountain was up and running once more. The port had been rebuilt, though it still required much more attention. Mostly it was used as an emergency stopping center when the water suddenly turned against sailors but it was slowly but steadily growing.
Everyday it seemed the palace emptied out a little more as people ventured further away. It brought Daichi as much joy as it did sadness. Mostly it was full of soldiers who no longer had homes and had no clear direction to take their lives in and the children who were left behind.
“Sawamura!” An exuberant voice shouted, causing everyone's attention to focus on the wild blur coming barrelling towards them.
Daichi had a moment of sick panic before he saw the guards following quickly after the young prince and his friends. Daichi had meant to tell Chikara to give the children older, much older, and slow horses but somehow little Hinata Shouyou had ended up with a tiny gelding that ran so quickly it looked as if it was flying over the land. Not to be outdone, Tobio had gotten a quick beast of his own with a foul temper who liked no one except Tobio.
“I win!” Hinata said with breathless excitement as he slid off his mount and did a roll before knocking into Daichi. Tobio dismounted from his own horse with a deep scowl. Alyona and Akio were already pushing their muzzles against the boys, Tobio quickly lost his irritation as he buried his fingers in Akio’s thick fur.
“This time but I will win next time!” Tobio finally admitted defeat. Daichi had also told Chikara that he didn’t want Tobio spending so much time at Aoba Johsai, he was certain Oikawa’s poor personality traits were rubbing off on his once sweet and eager to please little brother.
Nishinoya quickly gathered the reins of the abandoned horses, shooting Daichi a look that was only slightly sincere in its apology. Daichi didn’t fully blame Nishinoya, who could get riled up with the best of them, but he was one of the only soldiers Daichi had that could keep up with the level of energy Hinata and Tobio expelled into every single activity they did.
Daichi cleared his throat and silence reigned around him. Even the horses quit their prancing around as Hinata and Tobio regarded Daichi with wide eyes. Daichi let the silence continue until it became oppressive, staring down at the two young boys. Tobio looked as if he was already going to be taller than both his older brothers while Hinata remained pocket sized, but there was hardly anyone who was quicker than him.
“Suga’s come home!” Hinata finally broke, earning a sharp glare from Tobio.
“I wanted to tell him!” Tobio swiped at Hinata’s head but the shorter boy dodged.
“He arrived this morning.” Nishinoya informed Daichi.
“Why don’t you go greet him? We’ve got the rest of this handled.” Nakashima Takeru, the young ruler of Wakutani told Daichi with an amiable smile. He eyed the two arguing boys before his smile widened into something a bit more mischievous. “Plus it looks like we have two volunteers to replace you.” Daichi couldn’t help but laugh at that.
Before peace had settled over them like a long forgotten blanket, Daichi had little interaction with anyone from Wakutani. They managed to fair a bit better than Johzenji but mostly because their lands butted up against Datekou, and the invaders weren’t willing to take on them yet. Over the years Daichi had many meetings with Nakashima and they had combined their people and efforts many times to help rebuild.
Tobio and Hinata went easily with Nakashima, eager to help and easily impressed by the young ruler. Nishinoya, along with two other guards that had finally managed to catch up, placed their horses near by and bowed respectfully to Daichi as he passed by them.
Part of Daichi wanted to keep the children protected at the castle forever, but he knew with spirits and souls like theirs that behavior would only crush them. He had to trust the guards he placed on them to keep them safe.
Daichi walked over to his own horse, rubbing her nose in greeting before he began to saddle her up. Alyona and Akio abandoned the children to stand at Daichi’s side, ready to follow him anywhere. He watched Hanayama Kazumasa from Wakutani approach Nishinoya, who tilted his head up towards the taller man with a wide grin. Daichi shook his head and pretended he didn’t see anything as he got onto his horse and headed back to the palace.
Daichi pushed his horse to go a little faster, excitement thrumming through his veins. It had been a long while since both of his oldest friends had been home at the same time. Asahi had just returned late the previous night, Daichi had instructed everyone to let him sleep since the waters had gotten rough during his trip home and the ship had taken quite a beating.
For the past year Sugawara had spent the majority of his time at Aoba Johsai, especially since the twins were born. Oikawa had finally been pressured into taking a female consort to give the country a rightful heir. It had been Sugawara who had found her. A young woman whose family had been trying to force her into a marriage with a brute of a man. It wasn’t a relationship Daichi understood but everyone involved seemed content so he was happy for his friend.
Asahi had progressively been spending longer bouts of time in Fukurodani also. He had revealed that Bokuto had asked for just two months at first and if at any point Asahi wished to return home, he was free to do so. Asahi had taken half a month to decide before Sugawara practically pushed him onto a ship asking him what did he have to lose? Asahi was as private as ever but considering he willingly, and happily, got onto a ship to spend more and more time in Fukurodani, Daichi assumed he had to have found some happiness.
Karasuno would always be there home and they both returned regularly. Daichi feared the day that their visits would come years apart instead of just weeks or months. He wished them all the happiness in the world but he also missed them dearly when they were away.
Daichi strode into his room, wishing to clean up quickly before seeing to his friends but he should have known better. Both Sugawara and Asahi were seated in his room with a platter of food between them. Daichi shook his head in mock annoyance before pulling his dirty tunic over his head. He used the basin full of water from the morning to dip a cloth in and give himself a quick scrub down.
“They are the ugliest creatures I have ever laid my eyes on.” Sugawara was saying, which made Daichi smile as he ran the cloth over his face. Alyona laid down on her own bed in the room while Akio pushed his way into Asahi’s lap.
“Suga that’s not very kind.” Asahi admonished lightly.
“But it’s true!” Sugawara laughed, the sound of it warming the whole room. “The Lady Consort has no idea how someone as beautiful as Tooru could produce such ugly children. Tooru is convinced they will grow into those ears but I have my doubts.” Despite the words there is clear love in his voice. It is all fine if Sugawara calls the twins goblins but the moment he hears a cross word from anyone else, they best look out.
Daichi had seen the twins when they were born and their ears were unfortunate, though he knew better than to say so.
“Don’t all babies look like?” Asahi asked as Daichi slipped on clean tunic before walking over to his two friends.
“You have seen Hinata Natsu as a baby, is there any question that she is not the cutest thing that has ever existed?” Sugawara countered and Asahi couldn’t exactly disagree. Natsu was the most adorable and happy baby Daichi had ever met. “Hajime has half convinced Tooru that someone has cursed the Oikawa line.” Sugawara grinned like he had played a major role in that convincing.
Daichi purposely knocked his shoulder against Sugawara as he took a seat. Sugawara smiled up at him while Daichi popped a few grapes in his mouth. He was famished after working all day.
“Hajime says that Tooru was locked up for almost a year after he was first born, they claim it was to keep him safe but the rumors are the Queen did not want anyone to look upon his ugly face.” Sugawara said in a mock whisper that had Asahi and Daichi laughing.
“Speaking of Oikawa, I do not like the effect he is having on Tobio.” Daichi stated sternly, though he was only being partially honest.
“Tooru is convinced that I love Tobio more and Hajime likes Tobio more than Tooru.” Sugawara popped a piece of cheese into his mouth. “Which is true enough. Now enough about me.” Both Daichi and Asahi hold their breath as Sugawara looks them both over before his eyes settle on Asahi. Daichi let out a breath or relief before grabbing more food, settling in to enjoy Sugawara pushing himself into Asahi’s problems and solving them with a few deeply insulting but true words.
“What did I do?” Asahi asked in obvious confusion.
“Do you still think he’s not serious?” Sugawara asked and Asahi smiled, looking down at his hands where he was idly twirling the cheese knife between his fingers.
“Lord Bokuto approaches any obstacle before him with everything he is.” Asahi answered after a moment's pause.
“But you’re not an obstacle to be knocked over.” Sugawara countered quickly. Asahi carefully put the knife back down before looking up at them.
“I don’t believe I could be any happier than I am right now.” Asahi’s smile was wide and warm, a beautiful thing that he didn’t show that often. “He gives me the freedom to go where I want, when I want but he is always there waiting for me when I come back.” Daichi knew Asahi was being purposefully vague because he had the secrets of Fukurodani to worry about now. It wasn’t as if the three of them told each other everything before, they had their privacy and their own secrets but now it seemed so much wider.
Daichi was sure Asahi now knew about Bokuto’s son and heir and that, to Daichi, proved Bokuto’s trust and commitment more than anything. Asahi would never betray someone he loved though so he could not any of that outloud, but Sugawara could read between the lines and Daichi had been told the secret by someone else.
“So it isn’t me you should be worried over.” Asahi and Sugawara both looked at Daichi, who tried not to choke on a piece of bread he had just swallowed. “Everyone always talks about how badly Lord Kuroo sulks in your absence.” Daichi felt his face warm at that.
“Daichi it’s fine if you’ve changed your mind and don’t want this to continue, you don’t have to force yourself to go back.” Sugawara stated softly but Daichi was already shaking his head.
“What makes you believe I’ve changed my mind?” Daichi asked, making a disgruntled noise when Sugawara and Asahi exchanged a look.
“Your visits get shorter and father in between.” Asahi pointed out, the traitor.
“I have responsibilities here, Kuroo understands that.” Kuroo was most likely in the best position to understand that. As much as Daichi would have liked to be a simple soldier, he wasn’t. He was the ruler of Karasuno and his people needed him to be a present one.
“You deserve to be happy.” Sugawara countered.
“I am happy.” Daichi tossed a grape at both of them when they exchanged yet another look. “I am. We worked tirelessly and bled for this land, for its people. I get up every morning and believe a little more that my brothers won’t ever know the horrors we do. I take my people, our people out to dig wells and put up barns and don’t have to worry about telling their loved ones they died honorably in battle. I love Kuroo and I cherish every moment I am allowed to spend with him but you know what my father made me promise.”
“That as the leader you have to be willing to give up everything for your people because you expect no less from them.” Asahi stated automatically, having heard the speech before.
“Your mother, both of them, hated that your father told you that.” Sugawara pointed out and they all laughed softly at that. Both his mothers had gotten into arguments with his father about it, at one point Ennoshita swore to burn the palace down herself if she ever caught wind that he made his two youngest sons promise the same thing.
“Daichi, do you resent us for leaving? For not giving everything to Karasuno?” Asahi asked. He had left the eyepatch off, the scars over his missing eye were still grizzly to look at but his one good eye was warm and soft as it looked at Daichi.
“Of course not, you did give everything to Karasuno and its people, you went into battle expecting not to come back.” They all had, just to give people time to escape. Asahi had never faltered, not once had he ever hesitated to step next to Daichi’s side. He was gentle, that much was true but it never took away from his fierceness and loyalty.
“And me?” Sugawara asked. “I wasn’t apart of that last battle. Do you resent me for not giving my everything?”
“Why are you asking me that? You have given everything and you are the reason I’m even alive, that many soldiers didn’t lose their life that day.” Daichi answered quickly, horrified that his oldest friends would think that way.
“Then why are you any different? Why must you continue to sacrifice everything?” Asahi asked quietly but Daichi had no answer.
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“What color ribbon would the princesses like?” Terushima asked as he produced several ribbons in different colors. Daichi had no idea why Terushima would be carrying around a pouch full of ribbons and frankly, he didn’t want to know. Hitoka stood a little behind Runa, who was looking over the ribbons with a fierce focus. “Blue?” Terushima offered but Runa shook her head.
“I want yellow but I think purple would look best on Hitoka.” Runa said after another moment of consideration.
“Would the lady like a purple ribbon?” Terushima asked, his voice softer than Daichi had ever heard him. Daichi had seen the other man fight, saw how he trained. There was no mercy, no give in him or any of the other Johzenji soldiers that prawled around the courtyard as if daring someone to try and hurt their queen or princess.
“Yes please.” Hitoka answered, hiding a little more behind Runa.
“Thank you for inviting us, Runa doesn’t have children her own age to play with.” Hana spoke up as they watched the scene unfold before them. She was seated next to Daichi on the bench in the courtyard, a little ways away from where Terushima was sitting on the ground with the two girls. “I worry about how she’ll grow up when she is surrounded by-” Hana trailed off but they both looked over at two of her soldiers who were eyeing a bush with menace. Akio leapt out, causing both men to jump back and grab for their weapons as a stream of boys ran after him with laughter.
“It’s good for Yachi too.” Daichi said honestly. Hitoka, like the other children staying at the palace, had lost her parents. Her father had run off when she was just a baby and he was called upon to join the war. Her mother had come, holding the little blonde girl in her arms, and had joined in his place. She had been fierce and undeniably clever.
Terushima started braiding Runa’s hair, twining the ribbon in the light strands of her hair. She was nervous and apprehensive, the same as Hitoka but she had taken easily to the other girl. Tadashi sat by close, looking like he didn’t know if he was allowed to stay or if he should go join the more rambunctious boys.
“Do you want to choose a ribbon too?” Terushima asked, smiling over at the dark haired boy. “Pick one, I have plenty.” Tadashi scooted closer to bend his head over with Hitoka to pick a ribbon.
“He’s good at that.” Daichi admitted quietly, so the other man couldn’t hear. As if Daichi wanted Terushima’s head to be bigger than it was already.
“Yes, he’s always been good with Runa.” Hana said in an even quieter voice, her hand touched her stomach as if in an unconscious movement. Daichi felt the corners of his mouth stretch into a grin.
“I meant the braids but he’s good with the children too.” Daichi laughed as Hana’s cheeks turned pink and she swatted at him. Daichi saw the Johzenji guards stiffen and look over at them, even Terushima was paying attention now though his eyes remained on the children before him.
“I’m surprised you’re here considering Sugawara and Azumane are both back.” Hana changed the subject and Daichi grinned but allowed her to.
“Apparently they had errands to run.” Daichi deadpanned.
“You don’t sound sure about that.” Hana smiled up at him as Terushima started to braid Hitoka’s hair.
“They are up to something, I know it.” Daichi sighed before rubbing the back of his neck. “I suppose they are making up for lost time, we never had time for mischevious deeds before, did we?”
“No, we didn’t.” Hana’s smile turned sad as her hand hovered protectively over her stomach once more, her attention all for Terushima. “Is it alright for us to do this? To act in such a way, to enjoy this peace when so many lost their lives?” Daichi reached down to pat Alyona, who was by his side as usual even as the boys continued to chase around Akio.
“I don’t have an answer for you on that, I’m still trying to figure that out myself.” It was why he continued to work himself hard everyday. Daichi felt as if it was some kind of betrayal if he allowed himself to relax, even now he felt as if he should be doing something productive.
“He’s so young and so much different than my husband.” Hana admitted quietly. “He and the others are the reason Runa and I are still alive.”
“The truth is we will never know what they want for us.” Daichi said honestly. “I think at some point you have to stop living for the dead and start living for- well, the living.” He shrugged, as if it were that easy. Then again it was so much easier to give advice than actually take it.
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Daichi was taken aback by the sheer amount of people that showed up for morning meal. Everyone tended up to get up at different times so morning meal was never a large affair but it seemed as if everyone had gathered early to eat together. Daichi always got up at sunrise and he knew several people in attendance woke up much later than that. It put him on guard as Alyona and Akio walked over to their dishes by the wall.
Daichi took a hesitant seat at the head of the table, his movements feeling stiff as he looked around. Some like Sugawara and Ukai were more skilled at keeping their emotions in check but Tanaka nor Nishinoya couldn’t seem to meet his eyes, Futakuchi looked positively delighted, Asahi seemed to be sweating profusely, and other smaller details flooded into Daichi as he continued to stare them all down.
“Can whatever you’re planning wait until after I’ve finished eating or is it best to get it out of the way?” Daichi asked, keeping his voice purposefully emotionless. He had never dealt with such a situation before and didn’t have the means to work his way through it now. Most of Karasuno were full of blunt individuals, there were a few like Sugawara or Narita and Kinoshita who were a bit more craftier than the others but even they preferred honesty over trickery when dealing with those they considered family.
“I’m usurping you.” Chikara said, his tone and the grin on his face betraying his words.
“Really now?” Daichi asked. “Can I eat before I’m thrown out of my own home?” He wondered as he reached over to grab a piece of bread.
“Of course, we’re not going to send you off on an empty stomach.” Sugawara said sweetly. Asahi looked as if he wished the ground would open up and swallow him whole.
“I’m to be sent away too?” Daichi asked while he piled cheeses and meats onto his plate with a couple fruit and vegetables.
“Please stop.” Asahi begged.
“I’m sorry Daichi!” Tanaka finally shouted, bowing so quickly and suddenly that he banged his head on the table. Futakuchi snorted out an unattractive laugh and even his stoic guard, Aone Takanobe, next to him shifted and shook his head just a fraction.
“What is really going on?” Daichi asked with a sigh.
“You’re being relieved of all responsibilities and duties concerning Karasuno.” Sugawara stated.
“T-that’s not completely true!” Takeda spoke up, stuttering slightly until Ukai reached over to rub a hand down his back. “We aren’t truly taking your position away from you but shifting the duties around to other people.”
“While giving you the responsibility of foreign relations.” Ennoshita stated with a smile.
“Which means?” Daichi asked, his food forgotten as he looked around the table once more.
“Listen kid, I was woken up before the sun even rose so we could all talk this through.” Ukai stated gruffly, his tone annoyed but his eyes were still kind as he looked at Daichi. “You’ve given enough, more than enough to this country. I know you’re trying to honor your father and his belief but it’s time to let that go. When you went away in your brothers place your father acknowledged he put too much on you, he was so proud of everything you’ve accomplished and everything you’ve done for this kingdom but it’s time to stop sacrificing yourself for others.” There were a couple sniffles heard around the table and Daichi felt his eyes get suspiciously warm as he stared at Ukai.
“Everyone in Karasuno, every single one of us understands what you’ve given up for us.” Kiyoko spoke up, everyone turning to her in surprise. She spoke as often as Aone did, which was very rarely and never in such a large grouping of people. Like Kinoshita and Narita , Kiyoko worked as a scout but she had done it for nearly a decade by herself. There had been times where she had gotten cut off from Karasuno, times where they hadn’t heard from her in months and mourned her loss.
“You know I am more than capable of handling the duties our position requires.” Chikara stated strongly, giving Futakuchi a thankful smile because he had played a large part in that. Together they made a powerful political team.
“The villages, farms, the port, everything will be rebuilt with time.” Asahi said. “It’s your turn to go after your own happiness Daichi.”
“Unless you truly want to stay here, if you’ve changed your mind about King Kuroo and Nekoma than you can tell us and we’ll never bring this up ever again.” Sugawara gave Daichi a knowing look, as if he already knew what Daichi truly wanted.
“Why do I have a feeling the majority of my things are already on a ship?” Daichi asked with an exaggerated sigh. He rubbed his eyes as if he was irritated and not to get rid of the moisture that had pooled there.
“You are set to leave by mid morning.” Nishinoya said helpfully, wide grin fully in place. “Once you’re gone the rest of us are finally free to slack off.”
There was much laughter and a lot of tears after that as they all enjoyed a meal together, not knowing when the next time all of them would be back together to do so again.
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Daichi forced himself to walk at a normal pace down the long hallways of the Nekoma castle. He had been greeted with surprise when he first arrived but there had been a warm welcome after that faded, secretive smiles shared between guards and servants alike. Yaku had shown up before Daichi made it to the second floor, offering to take his bags and stating that Lev and the other children would be more than happy to look after his wolves for him. Then Yaku had grinned and told him where the king could be found, which was in his office.
The strangest need to run hit Daichi the closer he came to the Kuroo. He wasn’t sure if it was the need to run towards Kuroo or away, he had never felt such a barrage of confusing emotions but he let his feet continue to pull him forward. He hardly remembered the trip from the docks to the castle, he was more than a little distracted when saying goodbye to Asahi. He was only a couple days journey away and Daichi knew they would see each other often so he didn’t allow himself to feel too guilty about that. That and Asahi had seemed merely amused at Daichi’s reaction the closer they came to Nekoma.
There were guards outside Kuroo’s rooms, hand picked by Yamamoto and diligently trained by Kinoshita and Narita. They stood up a little straighter when they spotted Daichi but opened the door for him without a word, he gave them a firm nod before walking in.
Kinoshita spotted Daichi first and gave a low whistle, Narita coming out of the office on alert before also seeing Daichi.
“Has someone come to kill me again? Let them in, if I’m dead maybe they won’t make me finish these documents.” Kuroo’s voice came out from the open door. Kinoshita and Narita passed by him, clasping him on the shoulders with twin grins on their faces. If they didn’t look so happy for him then he would have punched them both for the smug looks they were sharing.
“We’ll leave him in your care my lord.” Kinoshita said, both of them bowing their head before walking out.
“Hello?” Kuroo called out, probably hearing the door open and close again. Daichi took a deep, calming breath before walking towards where he could hear Kuroo pushing back his chair to check on his two silent guards.
Daichi rounded the corner into the private office and saw Kuroo standing behind his desk, brow furrowed until he spotted Daichi. It had been nearly a year since Daichi had last seen Kuroo. He admitted to cowardice keeping him from returning since it had gotten increasingly more difficult to leave Kuroo each time.
There were new gray hairs amongst the mess of black, the gold circuit Kuroo wore was almost lost amongst the long strands. Kuroo’s eyes were as clever and brilliant as ever even if they were opened wide in shock. Due to the training Daichi and his own soldiers put Kuroo through, his shoulders were wider and Daichi knew every new muscle with an intimacy that still made him blush.
“Cat got your tongue?” Daichi asked in a truly terrible greeting. As he expected, it managed to shake Kuroo out of his uncommon stupor and suddenly the other man made quick work of walking around his desk and striding to Daichi, who felt his stomach swoop low at the sheer intensity in the other man's eyes.
“They’ve finally managed it.” Kuroo said as he stopped in front of Daichi, hand reaching out carefully to cup his cheek. Daichi let out a soft sigh of relief, leaning in towards the touch and making a questioning sound. “The assassins, they must have gotten to me and I’m dead.”
“Your afterlife consists of paperwork?” Daichi asked, voice flat but he couldn’t resist reaching up to place his hand over Kuroo’s on his face.
“No.” Kuroo’s thumb traced the high point of Daichi’s cheek. “Just you.” Daichi’s heart did a flip and he pressed closer, pushing his face into Kuroo’s chest to hide his suddenly burning face. He could feel Kuroo’s laugh vibrating in his chest.
“How can you say such things?” Daichi grumbled though his arms came around Kuroo, hands curling into the soft fabric of his tunic. Kuroo’s laughter faded as he wrapped his own arms around Daichi, squeezing tightly.
“I only have a limited time with you so I have to romance you.” Kuroo’s cheek rested atop Daichi’s head before he let out a long sigh. “When do you have to go back?”
“Well,” Daichi’s heart picked up pace once more, unfounded fear that Kuroo would not want him to stay hit him and made him swallow several times. “Winter is coming so travelling back would be risky and there’s not much rebuilding that can be done during the winter either.”
“You’re staying until after winter?” Kuroo asked, surprise evident in his voice. Daichi pulled back so he could look into Kuroo’s eyes when he said what he needed to say.
“Actually I was kicked out of my own home so I was hoping someone might invite me to stay in theirs.” Daichi felt his face heat up as Kuroo stared blankly down at him. “I’m sure they were only jesting, I could go back if you don’t-”
“No!” Kuroo yelled, shocking them both before he crushed Daichi to him once again. “You’re really here to stay?”
“I will want to go back but they will be short visits.” Daichi didn’t mention that he would like Kuroo to come with him if possible. Things had partially settled down amongst the nobles in Nekoma but there was still a lot of work to be done and if Kuroo left for an extended amount of time they might try to take his seat from him.
“Daichi-” Kuroo started off but Daichi cut him off by moving away and pulling out a small pouch from his pocket.
“I was meant to give this to you when I came here the first time.” Daichi pulled the string loose and turned the pouch upside down in his hand, allowing two golden bands to fall in his hand. “I know the marriage was just a way to secure a treaty and you dissolved that part of the contract, but if you would have me I would be happy to spend my life as your husband.” One of the bands was slightly smaller than the other and Daichi picked that one up off his palm, looking up at Kuroo for the first time since Daichi started his speech.
Kuroo’s eyes were wide with surprise but he held out his hand even as no sound left his slightly parted lips. Daichi took that as confirmation and slid the ring onto his finger, noting how Kuroo’s fingers were longer, his palm wider but there was something almost delicate about the skin and muscle pulled taught over his hands and wrist. There was a new and faint scar on one of his knuckles, Daichi lightly grasped Kuroo’s hand and pulled it up to his face to lay a gentle kiss there.
Kuroo took the other ring from Daichi, taking his hand into his slightly larger ones before sliding the ring into place. Daichi’s fingers were thicker than Kuroo’s, some of them could no longer be pulled straight from being broken so many times. His hands, along with the rest of him, were heavily scarred and calloused but Kuroo still held them with a care that Daichi still wasn’t used to.
They smiled at each other as they held their hands between them, grinning and laughing like the fools they were and not caring one bit because no one was around to see it.
“Oh,” Daichi said suddenly, frowning slightly down at their new rings.
“What is it?” Kuroo asked worriedly.
“I realized we’ll have to have two weddings now.” Daichi ran his thumb over the ring on Kuroo’s finger. “There will be so many people.”
“Karasuno has to have big weddings.” Kuroo said with heavy disbelief in anything otherwise, causing Daichi to laugh.
“My father and mothers wedding was private, only the closest people to them came.” Daichi looked up at Kuroo once more, thinking he would go through a hundred awkward and long wedding with thousands of people if it meant getting to spend the rest of his life with the other man. “But now Karasuno has all these allies, so we’ll have to do one there and then another here because Lord Bokuto might burn the whole city down if he’s not invited.” Kuroo laughed at that but he didn’t disagree.
“Wait until Alisa gets ahold of you for the traditional wedding clothes we have to wear.” Kuroo grinned when Daichi groaned at that. “Also there’s a coordinated dance and the wedding is really three days long- hey wait, what are you doing?” Kuroo asked when Daichi tried to pull the ring off.
“Taking this back, I’ve changed my mind.” Kuroo curled his hand into a fist and those long, knobby and skinny fingers were surprisingly hard to unfurl.
“You have no other place to go back, you were kicked out of Karasuno.” Kuroo laughed as he tried to pull his hand back but Daichi was resilient, though neither were particularly serious.
“I bet Lord Bokuto would hire me into his army.” Daichi let out a grunt as they fell to the floor and he allowed Kuroo to pin him down. Kuroo had such a look of triumph on his face that Daichi couldn’t help but let him win this once.
“Not Fukurodani, as if I don’t have enough-” Kuroo pressed his lips tightly together to stop himself from speaking.
“What were you going to say?” Daichi asked, genuinely curious though he wasn’t too hard pressed to find a reason to move away.
“Nothing.” Kuroo said quickly, too quickly.
“Tetsurou.” Daichi said but the other man shook his head. “Please?” Kuroo sighed dramatically before laying next to Daichi on the ground, using his arm as a pillow.
“You’ve got interested parties from almost every land.” Kuroo admittedly gruffly.
“Because of my fighting abilities.” Daichi stated, to which Kuroo only snickered and shot Daichi an incredulous look but no matter how much Daichi asked, Kuroo wouldn’t explain himself further.
-----------------
Daichi used his sleeve to wipe away the sweat stinging his eyes as he tried to regain control of his breathing. Sparring against Yamamoto was becoming increasingly difficult, the younger man had used the past three years to train with the various soldiers Karasuno sent to Nekoma, along with Daichi himself. He was constantly evolving, becoming stronger and quicker. Daichi had managed to scrape by with a win but only because his endurance was still stronger than Yamamoto’s.
“Here you go!” Shibayama Yuuki held out a leather skin of water for Daichi, who took it gratefully. The young orphan, along with his friend Inuoka Sou, had been adopted by Kuroo. Whenever Daichi came to Nekoma they followed him around and it made him a little less homesick, reminded him of his youngest brother and his friends.
“Aren’t you three supposed to be with your tutor?” Daichi asked, hiding his grin as they looked up at him with wide eyes.
“No! We don’t have it because-” Lev started but Inuoka elbowed him, shushing him loudly. Daichi narrowed his eyes at them but before he could question them further, Yamamoto pushed his way in.
“You should bath before dinner.” Yamamoto said quickly. “I’ll take care of the kids and Alyona and Akio.” Daichi turned his suspicion on Yamamoto but the other man was already herding the boys and the wolves away from him. Daichi took another long drink of water as he casually looked around, noting how many people quickly looked away when they noticed his attention on them.
Daichi hadn’t seen Kuroo all day, he had been pretty busy the past couple days truthfully, only meeting back up with Daichi during a late evening meal and then for bed. Kuroo seemed to be purposefully vague about his days also and Daichi never pushed for more. Perhaps Daichi should do that now since something was clearly going on. But Yamamoto was right and Daichi desperately needed to bath first.
It had only been a couple days since Daichi had arrived and he was still trying to find his place in Nekoma. Considering they weren’t married, Daichi was not given the privileges a spouse would have been afforded. He wasn’t allowed to attend the daily meetings with Kuroo, though that was a blessing in disguise, but it also meant they spent the majority of their time apart.
Daichi had tried to put his years of experience in fighting to use by training soldiers, but Kinoshita and Narita had a good laugh each time Daichi attempted to help. There were very few soldiers who would actually spar with Daichi, afraid to harm the Kings intended, and they were all too nervous to actually listen to him.
“Tetsurou.” Daichi greeted the other man warmly after closing the door to the bedroom behind him. Kuroo had clearly just gotten done bathing, a robe was his only covering as his dark hair was flat against his skull for once. It was a surprise to see Kuroo, but a pleasant one.
“Daichi.” Kuroo’s smile was wide as they met in the middle of the room. “Did you have fun embarrassing Yamamoto?”
“Were you watching?” Daichi asked with his own grin, pressing a kiss to Kuroo’s jaw before walking towards the bathing chamber. Mostly Daichi used the public baths, but one of Daichi’s newest joys in life was taking a bath with Kuroo. Daichi turned when he realized Kuroo wasn’t following him. “Not coming?”
“Can’t wash your back without me now?” Kuroo’s grin was devilish and Daichi couldn’t let that stand. With a moment of hesitation before, Daichi pulled off his dirty tunic before looking over at Kuroo, feeling his face heat up in embarrassment.
“I can do it myself.” Daichi said with a shrug before walking into the other room. This too was something new Daichi was adjusting to, even after three years it embarrassed him but Kuroo enjoyed Daichi’s body, liked to see and touch it. In the privacy of their own room Daichi could openly flirt in such a way with only a small amount of mortification. He still saw his body as a weapon, a scarred one at that.
Daichi was stepping into the large tub when Kuroo came strolling in as if by accident. Daichi grinned as he settled into the warm water. He rested his arms on the edge of the tub and watched Kuroo grab several soaps.
“Change your mind?” Daichi asked when Kuroo walked over to him. Kuroo’s eyes travelled the length of Daichi’s crossed arms and over his shoulders before sitting next to the tub and pressing his forehead against Daichi’s.
“You don’t fight fair.” Kuroo stated, causing Daichi to laugh at his mournful expression. “Now turn around, dinner will be starting soon and I’ve got a lot of skin to cover. I mean clean.” Daichi did turn around, giving Kuroo his back.
“You’re the King, meals are planned around your schedule.” Daichi reminded him as Kuroo poured water onto his hair. Daichi tilted his head back, leaning into the side of the tub and closed his eyes as Kuroo’s fingers worked the soap into his hair. Kuroo laughed softly, and Daichi knew it was because how soft Daichi went whenever Kuroo did this. Daichi couldn’t help it though, he could happily spend the rest of his life with Kuroo’s hands in his hair.
“We have a couple guests coming, wouldn’t want to keep them waiting.” Kuroo said after several moments of comfortable silence. Kuroo told him to dunk his head before Daichi could question who the guests were. Kuroo prompted Daichi to lean forward with a tap on his shoulder before he washed the expanse of Daichi’s shoulders and back.
Daichi refused to question the swiftness in which Kuroo helped him wash, he had been teased enough today though he made a promise to get Kuroo in the tub with him next time and to stay until the water cooled. Daichi patted himself dry as he followed Kuroo back into the main bedroom, only slightly surprised when he saw two outfits spread on the bed for the both of them. Alisa was in a habit of slipping in and out to dress them when needed.
“These are nice.” Daichi’s fingers touched the fabric of the one on the right, where Alisa always placed his own clothes. Daichi couldn’t help the smile that spread over his face as he glanced at both of them when Kuroo took hold of the trousers. “They look like a mix of Karasuno and Nekoma clothes.” Kuroo’s were done in the more vibrant colors the people of Nekoma preferred but there were the muted, darker tones of Karasuno while Daichi’s was the opposite, with just a hint of bright orange fabric peeking through here and there.
Daichi dressed quickly and silently, looking at Kuroo in question because the other man was never this quiet. He never missed an opportunity to talk about the spread of the Northern cultures, how the market was growing, and his excitement was always a clear thing. Kuroo’s movements seemed jerky as he tugged his clothing into place, there was none of his usual teasing charm, none of the small touches Daichi had grown accustomed to.
When Kuroo tugged them to the secret tunnels Daichi knew something was truly upsetting the other man. Kuroo had told Daichi almost immediately about the tunnels, it was how Kuroo had snuck around the castle without being seen. He had told Daichi they were his solace as a child, allowing him small moments of escape from his father. But Kuroo wasn’t teaching Daichi how to use the tunnels, which meant he had gone to them as a source of comfort.
“Kuroo.” Daichi tried once before reaching out and grabbing hold of Kuroo’s wrist, gently bringing the other man to a stop. “Tetsurou, tell me what’s bothering you.” Kuroo turned to Daichi with a face twisted by some complicated emotion.
“I have grown used to making decisions on my own.” Kuroo started off. Daichi didn’t understand but let the other man continue without interruption. “The Council helps now but mostly it’s me and I know it will take a while to learn to include you in on everything, I want you to be involved but I think I’ve made a huge mistake already.” Daichi gently took Kuroo’s hand in his own, kissed his palm before kissing the gold ring on his finger.
“It is going to take time for both of us to adjust, we are bound to make many mistakes.” Daichi smiled up at him, sure in the fact that Kuroo couldn’t have done anything that would warrant this amount of stress. “So tell me what has been done and we’ll fix it together.” Kuroo took a deep, shuddering breath as his eyes slid off to the side.
“I’ve set up a wedding for us.” Kuroo finally admitted in the dark and cramped space of the tunnel. Daichi stared up at the other king in surprise. “When you spoke of your parents wedding you sounded as if that was what you wanted, something small and intimate. I sent word to Azumane, he’s here along with Bokuto and probably a good portion of Fukurodani. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized you would probably want your family there and we’ll most likely have to have a larger wedding, which means putting you through this once more, if not twice more. I should have-” Daichi cupped Kuroo’s face and pulled him down to kiss him, successfully cutting off his rant.
“You wish to marry me now?” Daichi asked, barely allowing any space between their lips as he stared into Kuroo’s eyes.
“I wished to marry you years ago, but now is good too.” Kuroo’s smile was small and hesitant. “You’re not angry?”
“Tetsurou, I will never be angry at you for wanting to be with me.” Daichi wanted to shake the other man but kissed him instead. “This is why everyone has been acting so strange?”
“I’ve never had a wedding before, I needed help and it got a little out of hand.” Kuroo pressed Daichi against the wall, his forehead gently touching Daichi’s as he stared down at him. “You will marry me now?”
“Of course.” Daichi laughed, a breathless and happy sound as he held Kuroo close. “Are they waiting? We should go.”
“Wait, there’s one other thing.” Kuroo’s hands came up to gently cup Daichi’s face, while Daichi placed his own hands on Kuroo’s hips. “I know how important your family is to you and I would never ask you to change your name. I was wondering if you would mind me taking your name as my own?”
“Truly?” Daichi asked, surprised once more at Kuroo’s confession. It was a Southern tradition, to take the name of your husband and since Daichi was choosing to live in Nekoma, he would most likely have taken Kuroo’s name. It wasn’t the same in the North, Chikara and Tobio’s mother kept her own name the same way Futakuchi would keep his when he married Chikara.
“Only if you wish it-” Daichi cut Kuroo off before he could get himself worked up once more.
“Everything I am, everything I have and will ever have is yours.” Daichi stated truthfully, easily. “If it is my name you want, my name you will have. I have to warn you it comes with a large and very troublesome family.” Kuroo’s face broke out into the most beautiful smile Daichi had ever seen before he was holding Daichi close, his grip a little too tight but Daichi didn’t mind as he hugged Kuroo back.
It had been a long and difficult journey for both of them, fraught with unimaginable pain and horror but as they walked hand in hand to the start of their new life, neither would have it any other way.