Bound by Blood

This is a fic taking place before the events of Bushido Blade two. Tatsumi returns to the Meikyokan after spending years away, honing his skills. Chihiro wants a little fresh air from the confines of his family’s dojo. Rated for sex and some violence. We are poor! Do not sue us! XD

Italics for thoughts

Please read and enjoy!


Bound by Blood
Chapter Three:

Snorting, Tatsumi dumped the last few drops of his water over the boy’s head. “Are you kidding? Go back home if you want pampering, light-weight,” he teased, pushing himself to his feet. He slipped behind Chihiro, catching the back of his T-shirt to tug him upright as well. “Come on--show me what these so-called trainers have been teaching you. I gotta know what I’m working with here.” This…is going to be interesting. He grinned. To say the least.

“Hey--!” Chihiro wriggled away from him, turning to stick his tongue out at him. All the same he was eager to take up his practice sword once more, and he scampered several feet away to take up the first stance of his primary kata. “You stand back, now. I’ll show you what tradition is all about.” He rolled his eyes, but a moment later turned serious as he began the set of moves. Despite all his mockery, in the end he respected his art, and he wanted that to show.

Tatsumi stood back, watching carefully, his posture mirroring that of all his previous mentors: arms crossed, feet spread, but unlike them he found he couldn’t help smiling faintly as the boy moved. He really is a natural. It won’t be too difficult, helping him. His problem probably just lies in his not wanting to work for all these “teachers.” His expression sobered a moment. His father probably won’t like it, if he’s learning from me. Those big, old families are always so big on strict tradition….

He came forward slightly, starting to circle around the boy to get a better view of his movements. “Try spreading your hands just a bit more apart, Chihiro-kun,” he suggested. “It’ll make it easier to get a greater range of motion with the blade.”

“Chihiro-kun.” I like that. Chihiro did as he was told, only vaguely aware that his movements were becoming more precise, with greater concentration than he usually offered his instructors. He liked the feeling of Tatsumi’s eyes moving over him, and was eager for their approval. I like it here. I want to stay here. His eyes narrowed intensely as he continued to move.

It was strange to see such obvious improvement in so short a time, but when Chihiro finally looked like he was beginning to tire, Tatsumi had to admit to being very impressed. He barely needs me to do anything. Retrieving another water bottle, he approached Chihiro in offering by way of ending the session. “You got a lot better there near the end,” he complimented. “Could you feel it?”

“Yeah.” Chihiro straightened with a grin; though the movements of his kata weren’t necessarily fast or vigorous, he was sweating from the effort of maintaining such precise movements and stances. He gulped down half the offered water bottle on one breath. “See what I mean, though? That’s all we do, all the time--it gets so boring.” He shook himself. “Any pointers, Master?” he asked teasingly.

Tatsumi fought down a blush at the title. “Well, it’s obvious your kata is better than average. It seems you just need to work on some actually practical application. And strength training.” He crossed his arms again in his best stern imitation. “Other than this kind of style work, do you do any weights? Push-ups, pull-ups…. Running…?”

“Um….” Chihiro clasped his hands innocently behind his back, his smile coy. “Well…not exactly…” he confessed. “There’s a lot of ceremony that goes along with being an heir--after all my technique training and the stuff that goes with it, it’s hard working up the energy for something like that.”

“Well, then that’s what we’ll focus on.” Tatsumi ran a hand back through his hair, sobering a bit. “If you ever get in a real fight, sometimes the only way to win may be just to outlast your opponent. Skill and speed are all fine and good, but if you can’t keep it up for a while….” Sometimes that can make all the difference. He looked off over the darkening city, for a moment distracted by thoughts of…the real reason he was in town. Especially when…your skill might not be enough….

Chihiro straightened, catching on to the seriousness in Tatsumi’s tone. It…sounded familiar, somehow, and he didn’t want to think about it. He hopped forward, rising up on his tiptoes to grant Tatsumi a simple, playful kiss on the cheek. “Thanks, Master. I guess that means we’ll be seeing a lot more of each other.”

Tatsumi glanced at him almost suspiciously. I wasn’t sure before but…he really does seem to be flirting with me. Shaking of his disquiet, he ruffled Chihiro’s hair before slinging an arm around his shoulders. “Just call me before you suddenly show up, okay? Now come on.” He tugged the boy back towards the stairs. “It’s getting dark--I’ll give ya a ride home.”

“No!” Chihiro said suddenly, before he could catch himself. He wriggled out from under Tatsumi’s arm. “Um, I mean…I’ll be fine.” He tried to smile convincingly as he started ahead of Tatsumi, walking backwards. “I can catch a cab or something, ‘cause I’m sure it’s way out of your way.” If he takes me back to the Ferry Dock…he’ll know where I’m from. And somehow, I don’t think I can risk that yet.

Blinking, surprised by the quick refusal, he held back a moment. Maybe…I was wrong? Tatsumi shrugged, trying to appear as if it didn’t bother him as he scooped up his neglected weapons and continued towards the stairs. “All right. If you’re sure you’ll be okay.” He slipped around Chihiro to open the rooftop door, leading the way down the dark stairs. Guess I went too far.

Damnit. Chihiro chewed his lip, and after a hesitant moment dashed forward once more to capture Tatsumi’s arm, which nearly succeeded in tumbling them down the stairs. He caught his balance easily against Tatsumi’s larger body. “Sorry,” he giggled. “It’s nothing personal. Just…I’m probably gonna get in trouble for being out without escort, and I don’t want you getting involved in a mess like that.” He gave Tatsumi’s arm a squeeze. “I might not be able to come back.”

Well…. He scratched at the back of his head. “It’s fine, if you say so. I’m not too good with families anyway.” Now I really don’t know what he’s thinking. Figuring the best way to handle things was to not push anything, Tatsumi allowed the other to hold on to him, curling his fingers just slightly so Chihiro would know he’d recognized the gesture.

Chihiro smiled to himself as they neared the door to Tatsumi’s apartment. “I’ve gotta get my haori,” he reminded, tugging lightly on his T-shirt. Maybe once we’re inside…I can give him a little something. Just so he knows. He unconsciously wet his lips as they entered, and he left Tatsumi’s side briefly to retrieve the folded garment.

Tatsumi gently tugged the wooden practice sword from Chihiro’s hand as he passed, and he easily moved across the room to put all the weapons away. “If you want to use my cell to call a cab, feel free,” he offered, pulling out the device and tossing it onto the small apartment couch.

“Thanks.” Chihiro gave it little notice at first, slipping out of the borrowed T-shirt and folding it neatly. There he paused a moment, and glanced back over his shoulder. “Mind if I borrow a towel?” he asked lightly. “I’m kinda all sweaty.”

“Oh.” Tatsumi straightened, turning to face him. “Sure. I think there’s some spare in the closet across from the bathroom.” He waved a hand down the hall. “Help yourself--I’m just going to straighten up a bit.” Tatsumi frowned as he bent down to retrieve an empty chip bag that was half hiding beneath his sofa.

“Sure.” Chihiro slipped to the closet, selecting a towel for himself. It’s kind of exciting, using someone else’s things. He blushed as he dried himself off; the towel, too, he folded and left with the T-shirt, and he tugged his long coat on once more. “Thanks again for today, Master. It was a lot of fun.” He giggled as he approached. “Dinner, some exercise, sharing clothes…kinda like a real date.”

Here we go again. “Kinda coming on strong there again, aren’t ya?” Tatsumi straightened, crumpling the chip bag. What…am I supposed to do? We only just met, but…everything already feels so casual. Like we’ve known each other for months. He scratched at the back of his head, not quite sure what to do. “You don’t have to call me that, by the way,” he added.

“Oh? I thought you might like it.” Chihiro stopped just in front of him, and just when he thought he might be bold enough to act he dipped his head shyly. “And…well, can you blame me?” He glanced up at Tatsumi through thick bangs. “I know you think I’m just a kid, but that doesn’t mean I can’t have a crush on you, right?” Might as well be open, anyway. Who knows how long I’ll be able to even see him….

Tatsumi’s shoulders slumped--he’d been a bit afraid of that, but at the same time…somehow hopeful. Guess it’s on me then. Though…who knows how long I’ll be around. He reached out, setting a hand on Chihiro’s shoulder. I wouldn’t want to hurt him…. “You’re young,” he replied instead, tone a bit more serious. “But I wouldn’t say you’re a kid, Chihiro-kun.” His thumb moved slightly, just barely brushing against the side of the boy’s throat. He is rather adorable…when he looks at me like that….

Chihiro felt a tiny shiver at the touch, and his posture straightened just slightly. But what kind of an answer is that? Is he…accepting me? He tilted his chin up, meeting Tatsumi’s bright gaze. A smile tugged at the edges of his lips. “Does that mean I get to treat you to dinner again sometime?” he asked, only partially joking.

He returned the smile easily. “Hey, I’m never one to turn down free food.” Tatsumi watched the boy another moment, considering. As long as we go slow…it’s okay. Shifting his hand again, he gently circled the back of Chihiro’s neck, tugging him gradually closer. He tilted his head enough to touch an innocent kiss to a half-hidden forehead.

Chihiro’s eyelids fluttered. Not that he’s getting away with just that. Though Tatsumi seemed to be treading lightly, he was fully prepared to take advantage of the acceptance he was being granted. He reached up, curling both hands in Tatsumi’s hair to pull him down for a more fulfilling kiss that made his stomach warm.

Though startled, Tatsumi couldn’t help a faint chuckle between them. All right, kid--I get it. He brushed at Chihiro’s hands, hoping to coax them into loosening their hold before he lost some hair as he returned the kiss. He had to remind himself to remain slow; Chihiro was sweeter than he would have expected.

It wasn’t the first kiss Chihiro had stolen--despite his youth he was always eager for new experiences, and especially wasn’t beyond teasing. But it was different, somehow, with Tatsumi--warmer, curling his toes and raising a quiet murmur to his lips. He rose up his toes so he could reach a little better, wondering…if Tatsumi might hold him. He’s so strong. I want to feel that.

After an indeterminable amount of time, Tatsumi finally pulled back with a faint gasp. That was…. He felt strangely light-headed as he looked down on Chihiro’s softly blushing face. It was puzzling that such young inexperience was actually exciting him--he usually preferred older, more competent lovers, and he’d never really considered someone younger than himself. Though…at his age, I…. Eyes narrowing, he lifted his other hand as well, cupping Chihiro’s cheeks. “I might not be here for very long,” he suddenly said, tone low in warning.

Chihiro’s expression sobered, but then as he lifted his hands to circle Tatsumi’s wrists he was smiling again, quietly. “Me neither,” he replied. His eyelids drooped subtly. Though…probably not for the same reason as you, Tatsumi. You’re right about me--my kind of fighting isn’t going to save me, when the Narukagami come for us…. He closed his eyes, stepping closer. “But…so what?” I’m not afraid to live while I can.

He nodded. All right then. Tatsumi leaned down again, touching their lips. “So…we see what happens,” he answered. He offered Chihiro a firm kiss, and something in his chest quivered faintly. I’m not sure how this happened…but I’m glad. I want this.

Chihiro gasped quietly between their mouths; Tatsumi was wonderful, and the kiss left him shivering. Something…was strange, in this, and he tugged at Tatsumi’s shoulders as if to draw him closer, and maybe understand the sudden eagerness sliding through him. Kiss me more. Touch me. I…want this for myself, finally. He drew his hands over Tatsumi’s shoulders, neck, and chest, thrilled with the feel of toned muscle beneath his fingers. I can touch him.

Damnit, maybe he’s not so innocent. “Chihiro….” Tatsumi forced himself to pull back, brushing his fingers over the boy’s face. “We can’t,” he murmured. “You said before…you needed to be home….” I don’t want you to get in trouble, or we might never….

Chihiro blinked as if having been drawn abruptly back into his senses. “Oh…yeah.” He took a step back, trying to call his breath to him. “Heh, you’re right.” He lifted his eyes to Tatsumi, blushing warmly as he licked his lips. “I’d better go.”

Tatsumi easily returned the smile. “I’ll call a cab,” he offered, turning away to retrieve his phone. “I’d feel better knowing you weren’t out wandering the streets at night, getting lost.” He licked at his lips while he dialed the number, feeling almost giddy. Just from a little kissing, too. How…odd.

“Yeah--I’m pretty good at that.” Chihiro slipped forward, running his fingertips idly along the back of Tatsumi’s arm as he dialed. Does this mean…I kind of have a boyfriend now? Or is it more like…a mistress? His shoulders crept up as he tried to keep from giggling, with little success.

Imp. He reached back, catching Chihiro’s waist and tugging him closer as he was put on hold. “It’s not something to brag about, you know.” I kind of like this, him being small. It’s somehow…. His arm tightened faintly.

Chihiro sighed happily, all but melting against Tatsumi’s stronger body. “You feel good,” he chuckled, wriggling up against him so he could draw a hand over his chest. I like him. A lot. It was somewhat new for him to be this close to another person who he wasn’t sparring with, and he took the opportunity to explore the contours of his muscles, the indents made by his ribs.

Tatsumi snorted. “Thanks, I think. You know--hello?” His attention turned away, back to the phone. “Yes, I need a cab to come by.” He quickly gave out his address and agreed to meet the car down at the front doors. Finally he tossed the phone back onto the couch and faced Chihiro again. “They’ll be here in about ten minutes,” he reported.

Chihiro pouted--that wasn’t much time for anything interesting, at any rate. “Then I guess I’ll just have to kiss you goodbye and be on my way,” he said lightly, smiling coyly up at the boy. He slipped out from under his arm so he could face him directly, fingers skating over Tatsumi’s cheeks and neck. If only…I was a little taller….

“Guess so,” he replied in kind, though he didn’t give Chihiro the chance. Tatsumi kept one arm tight around the boy’s waist to draw him close, head tilted and eyes narrowed as he stole a slow, teasing kiss. He recognized vaguely that he was being more playful than usual, but somehow it seemed appropriate, with Chihiro.

Chihiro shivered again, shoulders rising as he tried to stretch upward into Tatsumi’s lips. The strong arm around his waist was wonderful; he could feel his body warming, wanting more strong touches. But he was, in the end, a tease himself, and he slipped away with a quiet giggle before Tatsumi seemed ready to release him. “Thanks for a lovely evening, Tatsumi-san.”

Tatsumi didn’t let him get too far, catching his wrist and following. “I’ll walk you down--there’s a few weirdos in this building.” Or maybe…I don’t want to let you get away so quickly. But he wasn’t about to say that aloud, and instead let Chihiro go as they slipped out the door.

Chihiro smiled, bouncing happily out the door and towards the elevator. We’re really…together, aren’t we? I’m going to come back to train, and even maybe…. He blushed at the thought, and stood close to Tatsumi as they rode the elevator down.

He really is cute like this; so eager…. It reminded him a lot of himself at a younger age--excited, wanting to please his elders, though without the caution that rejection had taught him over the years. Tatsumi even found it somehow refreshing, feeling such energy beside him. Maybe, all this will be good for me, too. In the least, it gives me something else to focus on, other than the Narukagami.

When the reached the first floor Chihiro was reluctant to leave, but he could already see the cab waiting for him. He turned back to Tatsumi one last time. “I’ll call,” he promised. “It might be a while, depending on Father, but I’ll be back.” He winked. “So be ready for me, okay?”

Tatsumi nodded. “I’m usually around, but if I don’t answer you can leave me a number to call you back at.” Too bad there’s so many people about--I would have liked to kiss him again…. With a sigh, he rested his hand briefly on Chihiro’s head. “See you later, Chihiro-kun.”

Chihiro beamed. Not that I can just give him my number…. But he didn’t let that damper his spirits, and with a last grin he turned to skip to the door. “Bye!” he called over his shoulder with a wave. Laughing, he slipped outside and ran to the cab waiting for him.

Tatsumi waved, even if Chihiro wasn’t looking. He waited until the cab was out of sight before shaking himself awake and returning to the elevator.

What…am I getting myself into?

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