The kinetics of ordering in the bcc ternary alloy is investigated by means of the micromaster equation method in the pair approximation. The time evolution of the long-range order and short-range order parameters are calculated. A transient ordered state results in distinct features, such as stepwise variation, overshooting effects, and peaks in the evolution to different equilibrium phases. It is found that the development of short-range order in the ordering stage of the transient ordered state is different from that in the equilibrium phase. Short-range order relaxes gradually in the ordering stage of the transient ordered state in contrast to the fast change of short-range order in the ordering stage of the equilibrium phase.