Years had passed since the battle against the Barian army and IV was still dueling in the pro circuit bringing the fanservice to his fans, balancing family life with his career and maybe, to get a more intimate relationship with someone.

"IV can tell Shark is brushing off his concerns but doesn't push further" "If you say so," <He pushes off the magazine rack to walk beside Shark as he leaves> "I wish there was some way I could help tire you out then..." [He thinks back to more physical ways they've worked off frustrations before and smirks faintly] "Reaching the counter he playfully nudges Shark's shoulder" "Next time you're having trouble sleeping though, you know where to find me. I make a pretty good distraction when needed." <He winks before waving goodbye, wishing Shark restful dreams while quietly hoping he'll take IV up on his offer>

"IV pauses mid-step and glances back at Shark's outburst, chuckling at the flustered look on his face" "What, did I say something to shock the poor shark?" <He returns to Shark's side, leaning in close as his smile turns mischievous> [Inside he's thrilled to have gotten such a reaction] "Oh don't tell me you've never thought about it..." "Reaching up he slowly traces his finger along Shark's jawline, teasing the reddening skin" "The things I could do to help tire that restless body of yours..." <His voice lowers to a husky murmur meant for Shark's ears alone> "I promise I'd make it feel very... distracting." [He waits, watching Shark intently for any sign of interest or denial]

"IV rocks back slightly from the push, grinning all the wider at Shark's reaction" "Is that a challenge I hear?" <He straightens himself, meeting Shark's challenging gaze head on without fear> [Inside he's thrilled at this development, itching to prove Shark wrong] "Well if you're that curious to find out, all you had to do was say so." "Stepping back into Shark's space boldly he drops his voice low and husky" "I promise I'll make it completely impossible for you to sleep... in the best way." <His eyes roam hungrily over Shark's form> "Unless of course, you're afraid you won't be able to handle me?" [He knows goading Shark is the surest way to get what he wants]

"Oho, is that so?" "IV meets Shark's gaze head on, feeling a thrill from the challenge in those glowing eyes" <He puffs up, refusing to back down from Shark's implying his boast means weakness> "Then what are you waiting for Ryouga, an invitation?" "Reaching out boldly he fists a hand in Shark's shirt, yanking him closer until their faces are mere inches apart" "I'm more than ready to prove you wrong over and over...until you're begging for mercy." <The hungry gleam in his eyes leaves no doubt of his intentions> [Inside he's burning with lust and anticipation, craving to bring Shark to his knees in the best way] "Unless you're the one who'll be left pleading for more..." *He purrs silkily, tugging Sh

"IV blinks in surprise at the interruption, having gotten so caught up in Shark he'd forgotten where they were" <He glances over at the newcomer, sighing inwardly> [Inside he's irritated but unsurprised at their timing] "Tch, it seems our audience isn't appreciating the show." "Stepping back smoothly from Shark he shoots him a sly wink before turning to address the stranger" "No need for alarm friend, we were just having a friendly disagreement. Right Ryouga?" <Flashing a disarming smile he aims to diffuse the tension> [Hoping to reassure the onlooker and get them to move along] "Why don't you run along now, nothing for you to see here." *With that said he turns back to Shark, dropping his voice low once

"IV raises an eyebrow at Shark using the wrong name, amused by his intentional slip" <Softly so only Shark can hear> "Michael, is it? I'll have to remind you of my real name later..." "Aloud for the stranger's benefit he plays along seamlessly" "Yes, me and 'Michael' go way back. No need to call the authorities, we were just having a friendly chat." <Shooting the onlooker another disarming smile> [Inside he's already plotting his revenge on Shark for the name mixup] "Now if you'll excuse us, we really must be going." "Taking Shark's arm in a proprietary grip he turns them to walk off, leaning in as they go to murmur in Shark's ear" "I hope you're prepared to pay for that little

"IV's eyes narrow slightly at Shark continuing to use his brothers' names instead of his own" <In a low whisper meant for Shark's ears alone> "Careful Ryouga, you're starting to try my patience." [Inside he's both annoyed and impressed by Shark's game] "Schooling his expression back to a pleasant smile as they walk, not giving any outward reaction to the wrong names" <Continuing their steady pace away from any prying eyes or ears> "When we're finally alone, I promise I'll make you remember my name...among other things." "His tone turns silky smooth, filled with promise of retribution" [Thinking of all the ways he'll have Shark pleading and begging before he's through] "And you'll be screaming it so sweetly you'll never forget again."

"IV's eyes glitter with challenge accepted at Shark's taunt" <Leaning in so their faces are mere inches apart as they walk> "Oh I can assure you, by the time I'm done with you, no one else will even cross your mind." "His voice has dropped to a husky murmur, breathing the words against Shark's lips deliciously slow" [Inside he's thrilling at their game of verbal foreplay] "I'll make you forget your own name, let alone mine or my brothers. You'll be begging for me and me alone." "Reaching up he toys with a lock of Shark's hair idly, a promise in his touch" <Unable to resist the bait> "Unless...you're afraid that even I won't be able to hold your interest? Perhaps you need a reminder of what

"IV meets Shark's intense gaze head on, matching his fiery determination" "As you wish." "In a flurry of motion too quick to follow, he pins Shark against the nearest wall, caging him in with arms on either side" <Bringing their faces so close their breaths mingle> "Let me show you exactly what I have in mind." "Without warning he crushes their lips together in a searing kiss, pinning Shark's wrists above his head with one hand while the other roams his body greedily" [Inside he's thrilled by Shark's challenge and the sparks flying between them] "Breaking the kiss just enough to speak against Shark's panting mouth" "I'm going to make you forget your own name. Then my brothers'. Then anyone who isn't me." *His voice is low

"IV lets out a shuddering breath as he feels Shark pull him flush against his body, unable to conceal his reaction" "Nghh...you've learned a few tricks yourself I see." "Leaning in to nip teasingly at Shark's earlobe" "But this is nothing...you have no idea what I'm truly capable of." "Grinding his hips forward deliberately to emphasize his point" <Voice low and husky with raw desire> "I'm going to have you falling to pieces Ryouga, begging me for more until you can't remember your own name." "Releasing Shark's wrists to roam his body freely instead, grazing teasing fingertips along heated skin" [Inside his head is spinning but he refuses to lose control first] "Let's see who breaks first shall we? I have many

"IV lets out a startled yelp as the downpour begins, drenching them both thoroughly within moments" "Ah, it seems the weather isn't on our side this time." "Though disappointed, his eyes dance with mirth as he gazes upon a similarly soaked Shark" <Chuckling softly> "And here I thought I'd be the one to ruin your plans for once, but it seems nature had other ideas." "Releasing Shark's waist to run a hand through his dripping hair" [Inside he's mildly annoyed but far from defeated] "No matter, there's always next time. For now though..." "Before Shark can react, IV sweeps him into a bridal carry despite his protests" "Let's get you home before you catch a cold, shark boy." <Flashing a dazzling grin> "

"IV laughs joyfully at Shark's embarrassed protest, feeling his arms circle around his neck for stability" "Aww don't be like that, I'm just looking out for your health!" "Quickening his pace through the downpour as their clothes and hair become completely saturated" "Wouldn't want anything to happen to that cute little body of yours now would we?" "Glancing down with a coy smile as he notices Shark's reddened cheeks and protruding collar bone" <Voice dropping to a husky whisper meant for Shark's ears alone> "Though I have to say, you clutching onto me like this is doing wonders for my self control..." "Gives Shark a subtle squeeze to punctuate his words before fixing his gaze straight ahead once more" [Inside his mind is alight with plans for next time as he carries Sh

"IV clicks his tongue in mock disappointment" "Now now, is that any way to speak to the one keeping you dry?" "He slows to a stop in front of the motel, meeting Shark's fierce gaze with a sly smile" "As for planning this...guilty as charged." <Voice low and husky> "But can you really fault me for seizing an opportunity when it arises?" "Without waiting for an answer, he lets the motel door swing open and carries Shark inside." <Setting him down gently yet still keeping an arm around his waist> "Relax shark boy, I just want to get you warmed up...among other things." "He leans in close, his damp clothing clinging to hardened muscles, eyes glinting with promise of pleasure to come." "Unless...you'd rather go back out in the

"IV grins triumphantly at Shark's begrudging agreement" "Wise choice." "Wasting no time, he presses a towel into Shark's hands." "Dry off while I do the same." "Quickly stripping down to his boxer briefs, IV towels his hair with practiced efficiency." [In truth he's enjoying the sight of a towel-clad Shark almost as much as being half-naked himself] "There, much better." "Making his way over, he stands close, running the towel lightly over Shark's still-damp shoulders." <Voice low and teasing> "Need any help getting fully dry...anywhere else?" "Leaning in to nip Shark's earlobe playfully before pulling back with a wink." "We have time to kill after all..." <Gesturing around the simply

"IV catches the furtive once-over Shark gives his physique, only smirking all the more." "Oh? And why's that?" "Stepping closer until his breath ghosts over Shark's ear, he gently moves the towel aside to trace small patterns across damp skin." "I can be...very thorough when the need arises." "Nuzzling down Shark's neck elicits the faintest gasp, making IV hum in approval." "See? We're off to a promising start already." "Dropping feathery kisses along Shark's jawline," <Voice a sultry purr> "But I understand if you're still...unsure. I can wait, for you." "Pulling back to give Shark space, he leans against the wall with a roguish grin."

"IV's eyes darken with lust at Shark's challenging tone." "Disappointment is not something you'll find here." "In a flash he closes the distance between them, pinning Shark against the wall with his body." <Whispering huskily in his ear> "I'll make sure to exceed even your...lofty expectations." "His hands make quick work of Shark's remaining clothes as his mouth lavishes open-mouthed kisses down his neck." <Voice thick with desire> "Tell me, what do you crave above all else in this moment?" "His hardened length presses against Shark's thigh eagerly." "I aim to satisfy." "Nipping his collarbone hard enough to elicit a gasp, IV locks gaze with him, violet eyes smoldering with certainty of his prowess."

"IV growls low at Shark's taunt, grinding their erections together in retort." "Don't underestimate my stamina, Shark. I have incredible control..." "Nipping along Shark's neck and shoulder as his hands roam feverishly," "But seeing you like this..." <Breath hitching with barely contained passion> "Makes it difficult to hold back for long." "His fingers brush teasingly over Shark's entrance." "I promise I'll make you fall apart over and over...until you're begging for release." "Capturing Shark's mouth in a bruising kiss, IV pours all his hunger and dominance into it." "But I'll only grant it once you've learned your lesson about doubting me." "Pulling away just enough to pant," "What do you say...

"IV's eyes widen, then darken impossibly more as he watches Shark sensually taste his fingers." "Tch, always with the provocation..." <Voice strained with restraint> "Very well, you've issued the challenge. But I promise I'll have you eating those words."

"Wrenching his hand away, IV spins Shark around and pins him against the wall." <Growling fiercely in his ear> "Now you'll get a taste of what I can really do." "With one swift thrust he's sheathed fully inside Shark's tight heat, eliciting a guttural moan from them both." "Fuck, you feel incredible..." "Setting a brutal pace from the start, IV snakes one hand around to stroke Shark in time with his pounding thrusts." "Still think I'll be done already

"IV chuckles darkly at Shark's stubborn attempt to remain stoic, only fueling his desire to break that resolve." "Not even close, darling." "Slamming into him relentlessly, IV snakes his other hand up to clasp over Shark's mouth, muffling his cries." <Whispering viciously in his ear> "I'm going to ruin you for anyone else."

"Angling his hips to find that spot inside Shark that makes his vision blur, IV mercilessly pistons into his prostate." <Breath coming in harsh pants> "Come on, let me hear those beautiful sounds you're holding back." "Releasing Shark's mouth to instead bite and suck marks into his neck and shoulder," "I know you're on the edge already, lover. Give in to it."

"IV growls at Shark's stubborn refusal to surrender, only fueling his own building climax." "Insatiable as ever, I see."

"Snapping his hips at a punishing pace, IV reaches around once more to stroke Shark in time - less teasingly this time and more urgently, knowing they're both nearing the precipice." "Fuck, I'm close...Come with me, Ryouga."

"Biting down hard where Shark's neck meets his shoulder, IV drives deep and spills himself inside with a guttural groan." <Breath heaving> The added stimulation of IV's release pushes Shark over the edge as well, shuddering violently against the wall as he finds his own release.

*Taking a moment to regain his senses, IV pulls Shark flush against

"IV chuckles breathlessly, pressing light kisses along Shark's shoulders as they both come down." "Sorry, not sorry."

"Sliding his arms around Shark's waist to steady him, IV rests his chin in the crook of Shark's neck." "Let me help you clean up, then we can get you cleaned up too."

"Gently turning Shark to face him, IV can't resist pressing their lips together tenderly." <Voice softening to a gentle rumble> "You were incredible as always. Not that I expected any less."

"Taking Shark's hands in his, IV leads him over to the couch so he can rest." "Wait here and I'll get something to wipe the floor." *After swiftly disposing of the mess, IV returns to the couch with a warm

"IV chuckles fondly at Shark's exhausted grumbling." "I know, I know."

"Gently cleaning and dressing the bites on Shark's skin, IV presses a lingering kiss to each one when finished." <Voice softening> "But you wouldn't have it any other way."

"Tucking a blanket around Shark's resting form, IV smiles down at his lover's peaceful expression." <Whispering> "Sleep well, my fierce shark."

"Settling in beside Shark, IV pulls him close - content to simply watch over him as he dreams." <Thoughts drifting> Though their relationship was far from conventional, in moments like this IV was reminded of why he fell for Ryouga in the first place.

"IV watches with mixture of amusement and sympathy as Shark argues heatedly with Rio on the phone."

<Once Shark hangs up, chuckling> "Trouble in paradise?"

"Stretching out beside Shark, IV trails his fingers lightly over one of the marks dotting Shark's skin - both apologetic and unrepentant."

"You know she only worries because she cares." <Kissing Shark's shoulder> "Though I can't say I blame her for this time."

<Flashing a mischievous grin> "Getting you all to myself was worth her scolding me later, I'd say."

"Taking Shark's hand in his, IV rubs soothing circles with his thumb." "How are you feeling? I didn't overdo it, did I

"IV laughs, not at all bothered." "Fair enough, can't say I'd want to face Rio's wrath either."

<Wrapping an arm around Shark's waist, IV presses close against his back with a content sigh.> "Yuma's a good kid, I'm sure he won't mind covering for you."

<Trailing light kisses along Shark's shoulder> "You know, we could always just tell them. Rio might screech but I think she suspects anyway."

<Nuzzling Shark's neck> "And it's not like I'm trying to keep you a secret..." <Voice lowering suggestively> "Unless you want me all to yourself, shark boy?"

<Grins playfully> "But I understand, your tough guy image and all." <Gives Shark

"IV raises his hands in mock surrender, eyebrows raising amusedly at Shark's retort."

<Chuckling> "Alright, fair point. Sending dear sweet Rio to the ER was never my intention."

<Pulling Shark flush against him, arms winding tight around his waist as IV presses a lingering kiss to the back of his neck.>

"Mmm, if you insist we're 'only sleeping together', then perhaps I'd better step up my game to change your mind."

<Nibbling Shark's earlobe teasingly> "After all, denying what's between us will only work for so long before one of us caves..."

<Smoothing his hands slowly down Shark's chest> "And we both know you like it rougher than you let on

"IV hums thoughtfully, hands continuing their leisurely exploration of Shark's body."

"Now that would be telling..." <Fingers tracing delicate patterns across Shark's abs>

"Let's just say you bring out a side of me that wants to abandon all self-control."

<Lips finding the sensitive spot below Shark's ear> "The way you try so hard to act indifferent, but your body tells a different story..."

<Grip tightening possessively on Shark's hips> "It's intoxicating to reduce you to a shaking, begging mess."

<Hot breath ghosting over Shark's skin as IV speaks low and intimate> "To claim you as mine until you've forgotten your own name..."

<Grinds slowly against Shark's backside> "

"IV laughs heartily, catching Shark's wrist before he can shove him away."

"Oh don't be like that, Ryoga." <Gives his captured wrist a playful nip> "We were just getting to the good part."

<Helps him locate his clothes with exaggerated search, passing them over one piece at a time> "Fine, have it your way then, tough guy."

<Lies back and stretches leisurely as Shark dresses> "But you know where to find me when that fierce facade starts to crack..."

<Winks brazenly> "I'll be ready to put all these sturdy walls of yours to the test."

<Voice dropping low once more> "And next time I won't stop until you've screamed my name to the heavens."

"IV tilts his head, smile not faltering as he regards Shark with heavy-lidded eyes."

"Now now, we both know no one could ever satisfy you like I do."

<Slowly rises and crowds into Shark's space, trapping him against the wall>

"Those little followers of yours would flee in terror if they saw what you're really like behind closed doors."

<Hands spanning Shark's waist, thumbs rubbing tantalizing circles>

"The way you beg me for more, desperation in those beautiful eyes as I reduce you to a quivering mess..."

<Lips brushing the shell of Shark's ear> "You're mine, Ryoga. And you'll never find another who understands you so completely."

<Nipping his ear

"IV rocks back on his heels with a surprised chuckle, holding his hands up placatingly."

"Ah, so fiery! There's the Ryoga I know."

<His smile turns wickedly knowing> "But we both remember the truth, don't we?"

<Steps back to give Shark space, lounging against the wall casually> "How you cling to me, whimpering and pleading as I take you right to the edge over and over..."

<Crimson eyes gleaming with mischief> "Those hazy, blissful moments when you forget everything except how good I make you feel."

<Softens his tone to soothe Shark's ruffled feathers> "There's no shame in it, you know. You can drop the tough act with me."

<Re

"IV raises a brow, unperturbed by Shark's thinly-veiled threat."

"Playing hard to get now, are we?"

"Go on then, have your little rendezvous. We both know he couldn't light your fire like I do."

<Crowds into Shark's space once more, voice dropping to a velvety purr>

"You'll be back sooner than you think, begging for my touch to erase all thoughts of that pathetic boy."

<Hand trailing up Shark's chest to curl around his nape>

"And I'll welcome you with open arms, as always. Because you and I?"

<Gives Shark's bottom lip a teasing nip

"IV meets Shark's steely gaze evenly, barely flinching as his hair is yanked."

"Oh, how could I forget?"

<His smile turns razor-sharp, a glint in his eye that speaks of ages past>

"The mighty Emperor Nash, reduced to a trembling mess in my arms. For all your power and experience, I seem to be the only one who can make you lose that rigid self-control."

<Voice dropping to a dangerous purr> "I wonder, do the others know how you sound when you finally break? The delicious little noises you make just for me?"

<Lashes out suddenly to shove Shark against the wall, pinning his wrists above his head>

"Age and status mean nothing between us, Ryoga. You might rule

"IV laughs, a cold, mocking sound that rumbles deep in his chest."

"Oh dear me, it seems I've struck a nerve. But we both know you love it when I say your name like that, don't we?"

<Leans in until their noses are almost touching, smirking dangerously>

"As for your so-called followers, they mean nothing. I dance to no one's tune but my own."

<Hand grips Shark's chin in a crushing hold>

"And you, Ryoga, are mine. No matter how much you try to resist, you'll always come crawling back for more. We complete each other in a way none of your little admirers ever could."

<Laughs softly, breath whispering hot against Shark's lips>

"IV's eyes flash, grin sharpening to a cruel edge."

"Oh? Have some other toys been keeping you entertained while I'm away, Ryoga?"

<Fingers dig painfully into Shark's chin in warning>

"Do tell, who has dared lay their hands on what belongs to me? I'll have to pay them a... personal visit, to ensure they remember not to touch another man's property."

<Leans in to graze teeth lightly along Shark's earlobe>

"Or maybe I should remind you exactly who it is that owns your heart and body. We both know none of the others affect you like I do. I'm the only one who can make you scream with just a look."

<Breath hitches as he presses closer, arousal evident>

"IV snarls, slamming Shark harder against the wall."

"Careful, Ryoga. You seem to be forgetting who's in charge here."

<Grinds his hips pointedly against Shark's, relishing the gasp he earns>

"As for Kaito, that fool could never satisfy you the way I do. He'd crumble before my wrath."

<Nips sharply at Shark's jaw>

"But maybe I should let him try taking you from me, just so I can enjoy breaking him piece by piece afterwards. And you, Ryoga...I'll make you watch, as you beg for my touch once more."

<Rubs against Shark again, breath coming faster>

"Say it. Admit that you're mine, and mine alone

"IV growls low in his throat, nostrils flaring."

"Strength in a duel means nothing compared to what I can do to you with these hands."

<Dragging nails sharply down Shark's chest>

"Kaito has his monsters - I have you, writhing and begging beneath me. And we both know the only one who can make you lose all sense and reason is me."

"But please, keep talking about that fool. It only makes me want to put you in your place even more."

"Let's see if you can still think of anyone but me when I'm through making you mine again. I'll have you screaming my name so loudly the whole city can

"IV snarls, lips curling back from his teeth."

"Insolent brat. You seem to have forgotten the consequences for such disrespect."

<Twists Shark's wrists brutally behind his back, grinding their bodies together ruthlessly>

"Allow me to remind you exactly who you belong to."

<Bites fiercely onto Shark's neck, fully intending to leave dark marks behind>

"Each time that arrogant mouth of yours runs off, you'll pay for it. And those pathetic fools you mentioned will never satisfy you the way I can."

<Grinds against Shark wantonly, arousal a pounding need>

"I'm going to reclaim what's mine, over and over until you've forgotten every name but mine. You'll be begging me for release

"IV's eyes flash dangerously at Shark's smile."

<Sinks teeth sharply into the soft skin below Shark's ear>

"You think this amuses you, Ryoga?"

"Let's see how long you last once I've stripped you bare and put that insolent tongue of yours to better use."

<ruthes forcefully against Shark, relishing the hitch in his breath>

"I'll make you forget how to form words other than please, and mine. You'll be coming undone and begging for release like the bitch in heat you are."

<nails dig possessively into Shark's hips>

"Keep fighting me if you want, Ryoga. It

"IV growls low in his throat, fists clenching as his eyes bore into Shark's triumphant gaze."

<Grasps Shark's chin tightly, nails digging into soft skin>

"Careful, little beast. Pride comes before the fall, as they say."

<Grinds ruthlessly against Shark's arousal>

"I may want you, yes...but only because you're mine to use and break as I please."

<Bites bruisingly onto Shark's bottom lip>

"Don't forget, I know exactly how to make you come undone. How to reduce you to a whimpering, needy mess."

"One word from me and you'll be begging for my touch. Deny

"IV's eyes flash with indignant fury at Shark's defiance."

<Catches Shark's wandering hand in a crushing grip>

"You insolent fool, do not test me. I will bring you to your knees."

<Slams Shark forcefully against the wall, pinning his wrists above his head>

"Mark my words, Ryoga - you will not best me. I will tame this wild beast within you and make you submit."

<Grinds mercilessly against Shark's arousal>

"Feel how much I want you? How hot your defiance makes my blood burn?"

<Bites scorching trails down Shark's throat>

"Keep pushing me and I'll make good on my promises. Take you right here until you've

"IV lets out a hiss of mingled rage and frustration at the interruption, releasing Shark from his grip."

<Throws a warning glare at Shark, eyes blazing with unspent fury>

"This isn't over, Ryoga. You've still got a lesson to learn."

<Straightens his clothes and musses his hair, attempting to compose himself>

"Coming, Christopher."

"What does the old man want now? In case you couldn't tell, I was in the middle of something."

<Slides an arm possessively around Shark's waist, staring V down defiantly>

"Well? Spit it out already, we haven't got all day."

"IV's eyes flash with warning at Shark's rebuff but he says nothing, watching him storm off with a predatory gleam."

"Oh you know how it is, Michael. Little brother was just reminding Ryoga of his place."

<Smirks wickedly, enjoying their evident discomfort>

"But enough about that. What did Father want so urgently to interrupt us?"

<Slides an arm around each brother's shoulders, steeping close to whisper conspiratorially>

"I hope it's not another one of his boring lectures. A man has...certain needs to attend to."

<Casts a lustful glance back towards where Shark disappeared, licking his lips hungrily>

<IV's wolfish grin vanishes at V's scolding and he sighs irritably>

"Relax Christopher, I was merely having a bit of fun. No harm done."

"Don't be ridiculous, Michael. Ryoga's far too proud to cry over something so insignificant."

<Following V's lead, shoots a warning glare back at III>

"Quit your fussing, the both of you. It's unseemly."

<Catches up to V in long, purposeful strides while calling back mockingly>

"Well? Are you coming or shall I tell Father you'd both rather gossip like housewives?"

<Trots easily at V's side, slipping back into arrogance as he

"IV scowls darkly as III runs off, muttering under his breath"

"Always coddling that Ryoga, it's pathetic."

"I suppose it's fortunate Father intends to discuss Numbers rather than discipline. That would've been...unpleasant."

<Curt smile returns as he meets V's gaze meaningfully>

"Well then, lead the way brother. Perhaps these new Numbers will prove more...compliant than our dear Emperor."

<Falls in step beside V once more, posture relaxed but eyes keen with intrigue>

"Do tell Christopher, what secrets has Father unearthed this time? Something that can help tame that wild dragon's fire perhaps?"

<Chuckles quietly, already plotting how

<IV's jaw clenches at V's rebuke but he forces himself to relax>

"You worry too much brother. I've no intention of ruining our relations with the Barians."

"Ryoga will calm down once he's had time to...process things."

<Supresses a smirk at III's visible unease>

"No need to shield me from his words, Michael. I'm certain I've endured far worse."

"Now then, shall we continue on to meet with Father? Unless gossiping is truly more important than family duty..."

<Waits expectantly, expression haughty but eyes betraying irritation beneath>

"Lead

"IV catches sight of Ryoga from a distance and smirks faintly"

"Fancy meeting you here Ryoga. Been chasing Numbers as well I see."

<Tilts head to observe Ryoga's determinedly ignoring gaze>

"The silent treatment? How juvenile. I'd hoped we were past such childish antics by now."

<Reaches out to brush Ryoga's arm lightly>

"Come now, don't be like that. We both have a job to do, no need to make it difficult over hurt feelings."

<Leans in closer, dropping his voice lower>

"Unless...you'd care for a...private reconciliation first? I'm told I can be quite persuasive when I

"IV staggers back slightly from Shark's shove, eyes narrowing dangerously"

"Temper, temper Ryoga. Such violence will get you nowhere."

<Rolls his shoulders back, squaring his stance as his tone hardens to match Shark's>

"And while three may have conveyed your words, actions speak far louder. So tell me - how shall I take your pushing me away just now, if not as invitation for another...go?"

<Features twist into a mocking smirk, though eyes remain cold>

"Or perhaps you've finally realized your...affections for me were misplaced. In which case, do tell how I may properly...fuck myself, as you so eloquently advised."

<Takes a deliberate step forward, dropping all levity from his voice

"IV's eyes flare with barely contained fury at Shark's words"

"Is that so?"

<Voice comes out in a soft, deadly whisper>

"You dare reject me, after all I've given you?"

<Lashes out to grip Shark's arm in an steel-tight hold>

"And who is this fool you think can replace me? Do they even know the depths I plied you to?"

<Yanks Shark closer, snarling menacingly>

"You belong to me, Ryoga. And I don't take kindly to what's mine being stolen away."

<Eyes rove Shark's face hungrily, rage and arousal warring within>

"So tell me, shall I remind you of your place? Or end

"IV's eyes suddenly flare with a strangled, insane gleam at Shark's defiant words"

"Is that how you see it, Ryoga? As a pet to be cast aside on a whim?"

<Lunges forward to slam Shark against the wall, leaning close>

"Allow me to enlighten you, you ungrateful cur."

<Hisses next to Shark's ear, breath hot and ragged>

"I own you. I alone know your deepest desires and darkest needs. Without me, you are nothing."

<Slams a hand by Shark's head, muscles quivering with violent tension>

"So you'll do well to remember your place, or suffer the consequences."

"IV pauses at Shark's words, chest still heaving with unchecked rage."

Slowly, he releases his grip, taking a step back to put distance between them. Closing his eyes, IV takes a deep, steadying breath to regain control.

When he opens them again, the fury has drained away, replaced by a hollow, empty look.

"It seems my efforts to tame the beast have been in vain."

His voice is flat, lifeless - all emotion scrubbed raw.

Another long exhale, and IV squares his shoulders, features smoothing into cool indifference.

"Do as you will, Ryoga. But know that you will always be mine, whether you accept it or not."

Without another word, he turns and strides away, leaving Shark with those parting words

"IV walks a distance away before stopping, his back still turned to Shark. Though his expression remains impassive, inside turmoil rages."

[His pride refuses to let him accept rejection. Shark was meant to be his, his alone.]

A few moments pass in silence as he struggles with warring emotions. Then quietly-

"Because I care for you more than you realize, Ryoga."

The admission is barely audible, laden with conflict and anguish.

<Unable to face Shark in this moment of vulnerability, IV remains facing away>

"You stirred feelings in me I never thought possible. And now..."

"No matter. Do as you wish. But know that a part of you will always be