#finn's face is tellin a story here

[mxmoth]

THE JUDGMENT DAY on WWE RAW | 8-19-24

[backintothematrix-archive]

The cause, the kid, the course, the charm, and the curse!

I did threaten to write this. Here's Rex's trial and sentencing. It's under a read more because it's so damn long.

He was found fairly quickly by one of the members of the Assembly of Master Builders as he was trying to access his ship. The reports from Emmet and Lucy stated that Dangervest was not supposed to be a problem anymore. Why was here now? Oh well. This just created a new problem: what to do with such a destructive man.

The first thing the Assembly did was lock him in a makeshift prison, built by the best Builders be impenetrable and unbreakable. It was guarded 24/7 by the strongest figs they could find. There were some objections, of course; some arguments that they didn't do this to Lord Business. But Rex was a wild card, dangerous and unhinged. It was easy to silence the naysayers.

Rex could have called Emmet at any time during his incarceration. He didn't want to. He couldn't face him, not like this. He barely wanted to face him in the laundry room the day he came back. You couldn't expect Rex to want Emmet to see him under lock and key like this, curled up in a corner and waiting for... what? Final judgement?

That judgement came soon enough. He was soon taken by a Friends and Duplo guard to a rebuilt and very sparkly dog dome. His face fell when he saw the place, memories of the last time he met the Master Builders in that building hitting him like a crushing wave.

He was pushed to the center of the circular room and he could almost feel the Piece of Resistance on his back again. The gazes of the other Master Builders felt more cutting now, though. It was Abraham Lincoln who spoke first, his voice barely cutting through Rex's memories.

"Rex Dangervest. You stand accused of starting Ourmommageddeon and nearly destroying the world as we know it. How do you plea?"

Why bother with this fake courtroom posturing? Rex took a slow breath, finally digging himself out of his thoughts.

"Why don't you answer that, big guy? Ya clearly know the answer." His tone was defensive and defiant but there was an underlying fear mixed in. This reply earned a volley of offended whispers from the gathered Builders.

"Answer the question, Dangervest! How do you plea to the charges?" Rex couldn't be sure who shouted that, but it really didn't matter to him. This was all clearly a game. Someone up there was introduced to the courtroom dramas Finn and Bianca's mother occasionally snuck downstairs to watch.

"I'm not gonna plea anythin'. What are ya gonna do? Make me?" He kept his tone defiant as she scanned for familiar faces. Soon, his eyes fell on Benny. The one person last time who was willing to vouch for him. This time, though... He could tell the other was disappointed. Benny didn't even know who he really was and he looked so heartbreakingly disappointed in him.

"We can so make you, Dangervest." A different voice spoke, this one from someone he didn't recognize at all. Clearly, they were already letting Systarians in. Others chimed in with demands for Rex to make a plea.

"Fine. I'll play your little game. Guilty. You an' I both know I started it. Woulda finished it, too." He kept his tone flat, despite the feeling of guilt that threatened to choke him out from his throat. He was, to his credit, a good actor. More whispers from the Assembly. More heartbreak when he turned to look at Benny.

"Even the accused admits to his part in Ourmommageddeon. Is there more we need to do here?" Gandalf's voice made Rex's eye twitch. Did he always sound so damn pompous?

"Yes!" The voice of his former spaceman friend chimed in. "Shouldn't he give us his side?" The color found its way to Rex's face. Once again, Benny came to his defense. Even if the spaceman didn't know who he was.

"Intent means nothing here. He started Ourmommageddeon! That's a big deal!" Damn you, Abraham Lincoln.

"We gave President Business a second chance and he tried to Kragle us! How is that better than the Bin of Storaj?" Rex again couldn't place who said that. His focus was mainly on Benny and Gandalf.

"Because we say so, that's why!" Gandalf banged his staff against the floor, like that helped solidify his authority. The old man seemed unmoved.

"Aw, come on! Let him speak!" Benny pleaded, the voice of mercy in this kangaroo court.

"Alright, Dangervest. Speak on your behalf. "

Rex could feel everyone's eyes on him. He had their attention and took full advantage, painting the picture as vividly as he could. He held nothing back and, by the end, was shaking. He didn't like being outed like this, but there wasn't much of a choice here. Maybe the truth would grant him leniency. When his story was done, he was sent away with two different guards back to his cell, waiting for the punishment for his crimes.

The next week felt too long and too fast at the same time. He was present for every testimony, every nail in his coffin. Each person's side, depicting the ripple effects of Rex's rage induced actions made the Matrix he was dragged into feel more real. To him, it was all NPCs crying for justice, all of them imaginary pawns in a teenager's...tween's?... maybe both?... mental court of opinion. But the more the trial dragged on, the more he had to answer to his crimes, the more real it all felt. He felt weaker with each story of rebuilding after his shot against their gods. Not even this fact helped keep him from finally breaking down at the last day of testimony. He was glad Emmet wasn't there. He couldn't see Rex like this, looking so weak.

----------

He couldn't sleep so he attempted to connect to the Man Upstairs. Maybe if he did that, he could bend the verdict to his favor. He sat in his corner and closed his eyes, doing his best to clear his mind. It used to be so easy! Why couldn't he clear...

His mind. After what felt like a decade, it was empty enough that he could see into the other side of the veil between worlds. What he saw, though, was not what he expected.

He saw a woman's face. She had dark hair that was the length and style of his own, but with blue and pink highlights in the bangs like his former girlfriend. She didn't notice him as she checked her phone. "There. Never thought I'd be installing this again." She threw on some headphones and bounced her head to an unheard song. She soon started singing.

"Because the Hook brings you back! I ain't tellin' you no lie!"

Before he could register the song, he was pulled out of the vision by the guards. Who was that girl? She wasn't Finn or Bianca. Didn't matter. He had bigger things to think about.

He was soon at the dog dome one last time. Rex felt sick from worry, but he kept his composure. He scanned the stands where his former peers sat, trying to read his fate on their faces but couldn't.

"Rex Dangervest, we have heard testimony from the people of Syspocalypstar about what chaos your crimes have wrought. Are you expecting mercy from this court?" Gandalf seemed particularly melodramatic today.

Rex shrugged. "You can do whatever ya wanna. I'm not expectin' nothin'." He sounded as weak as he felt. Just get this over with.

"We have taken your tale into consideration, however we do need to make sure you really have learned your lesson. You are to help rebuild the Downstairs Realms to the way they were before untill such a day as this Assembly believes your debt to society has been paid. We will assign you to a new place every month. If you are to move away from your current residence, we must be informed. Is this understood, Rex Dangervest?" Abraham Lincoln read this sentence from an official looking scroll.

Rex felt a little relief. "Yeah. That works for me."

[nicolewoo]

Good News Pairing: Fergal Devitt X Reader Warning: Smut, Oral sex, masterbation, consentual sex, Sexual Content Language NSFW, slight BDSM (18+ only peeps) Do not interact if you’re under 18!

I stayed at the apartment to work as Ferg and Colby went to their afternoon physical therapy appointments. It was really great to see them getting along so well, although they tended to be worked up when they got home. My mind began wandering from my work to how to keep the boys busy when they got back. They were always so hyper after therapy that if they didn't do something physical like hiking or swimming, they got depressed. I figured today was a perfect day for a bike ride. I quickly called over to the bike rental place and reserved 3 bikes for 5 pm. That should be enough to keep them out of trouble.

Back to work. I've got to concentrate. I told myself, but my mind wouldn't focus, so I went out to the back porch for some fresh air. I couldn't have been out there for more than 5 minutes when a loud, rowdy knocking on the back window scared me. I looked up to see Fergal's face through the window all full of smiles. It was obvious he was so happy he couldn't stand still.

“You're early.....” I started as I came in the back door, but looking at Fergal and Colby, I realized something good was happening. Both of the guys were all smiles and energy.... plus they were hours early getting home. Ferg walked up, wrapped his arms around me, and kissed me while he dipped me close to the floor. I squealed in surprise. “Babe....” He started to say.

It was then that I realized what was happening, “You're cleared?” I half asked and half said.

“Yes!” Ferg leaned in to kiss me again. He picked me up and spun me around in joy! “T'ere clearing me for Wrestlemania too!

Nothing in the world could have been better news to Fergal, and I was so happy. Wrestlemania.... the dream... his dream... since he was a child.... He had been cleared for his first Wrestlemania. When Ferg set me down, Colby came over and patted him on the shoulder, “This man is going to live out his dream!” He beamed.

“And you?” I asked Colby.

He was still smiling as he shook his head no, “But I've been to Wrestlemania before. This will be Ferg's first time. We need to celebrate!” he said as he went to the fridge and grabbed 2 bottles of beer. “Y/N?” he offered, but I declined. “Anyway, Doc gave me the rest of the day off to celebrate with you guys. What do you say we go to dinner? Ferg's choice. My treat.” He lifted his bottle to toast with Ferg's bottle.

“Well, If it's MY choice, I gotta go wit'......”

“Sushi” we all three said at the same time and broke down laughing.

True to form, they were hyper as could be, and the good news only made it worse. There was no way these guys were going to be able to wait until 5 pm for the bikes I rented, so I called and cancelled the reservation. Meanwhile, Colby made dinner reservations. The next step was for Fergal to tell his parents. It was late in Ireland, but luckily his parents were still awake. “Mum, Dad, I got cleared!” He chimed into the phone. He was skyping, but I stayed out of view. It was too early for a meet the parents call. His parents were ecstatic. Mum got a bit teary eyed and dad hollered loudly in joy. I left the room to give them their privacy and tried to focus on work, but it was no use. This afternoon was going to be a wash.

Colby came out as I packed up my files and computer. “I'm so happy for Ferg. He deserves this.” He said again, taking a big drink of his beer.

“He does,” I answered. “I want to thank you for helping him through this.”

Colby looked a bit surprised, “It's the least I could do, given....” He trailed off.

I waited a beat..... He said nothing..... “Given that you hurt him?” I questioned quietly. He hung his head a bit. “Colby,” I put my hand on his arm. “He doesn't blame you. I don't blame you. Nobody blames you. It was an accident... pure and simple.” He tentatively peeked up at me. “I mean it. I've seen that exact move done a thousand times, and nobody got injured. This one time he just landed wrong.”

“It's hard not to feel guilty.” He said.

I hadn't even noticed that Fergal had come into the room, “It was jus' an accident, mate. I'm not mad at ya. I keep tellin' ya that.” He called out from the door.

“Do you blame Kane for your knee injury?” I asked.

“No.” he was quick to answer, “but that was different. I fell wrong doing my move.... In Ferg's case...” He trailed off.

“In my case, it was exactly t'a same t'ing. I fell wrong. Ya got nuttin’ to feel bad 'bout.” he said slapping Colby on the shoulder harder than he needed too.

“Ok. Ok. Enough of that.” I changed the subject. “What are we going to do for the next few hours?” I asked.

“Lets go swimmin'” Ferg said.

Seth quickly agreed, but I was certainly not ready to be in a swimsuit around the two of them. “You should go. I need to do some more work.” Seth looked at the bag where I had just packed up my work and computer.

“I thought you were done,” He said.

Shit. “I just thought of something I forgot to do.” I lied.

It seemed to appease him, and he didn't ask any more about it. The boys changed into their swimming suits and headed to the apartment complex's pool. Once they were gone, I pulled out my work and tried to concentrate, but it didn't work. I opted to call some friends from home instead.

“Where are you?” Stacy's voice came through the phone.

“Girl, you're never going to believe me.” I said.

“You were supposed to be home days ago. I was getting worried.” She said.

“I sent you a text that I was staying longer. Didn't you get it?” I asked.

“Yes, but you said you'd call me and tell me why. That was three days ago. What's going on?” She urged.

“Stac..... If I could have anything in the world (aside from having Jake back), what would it be?”

She chuckled jokingly, “That wrestler you're crazy about... Frank, Fred.... what's his name? The one with the abs...”

“Finn....” I corrected and just waited for things to fall into place.  

“Wait!!! Is he? Is he THERE?” she hedged.

“You've missed a lot.” I joked.

“What's going on?” she prodded. “Wait! What was the meeting about? Did you get to meet Finn?”

I giggled like a giddy school girl. “Not only did I meet him, I'm in Alabama with him.”

She damn near screamed into the phone, “WHAT??? WHAT HAPPENED???”

It wasn't like her to get so excited, and I laughed again at her. “Let's start from the beginning.” I relayed the story to her... the dinner, how Fergal and I met, the instant attraction, the meeting with the McMahons, the job offer, the trip to Alabama.... all of it.

When I was done, there was nothing but silence on the other end of the phone. “Stacey, are you still there?” I asked.

“Yeah. Yeah.” She said. “I just... I don't know what to say. You're in love with him? And he's in love with you? Love at first sight?” she asked.

“We haven't said we love each other, but yes, I'm pretty sure he feels the same way I do.” It honestly was the first time I'd thought about if he loved me.

“So, you're just going to uproot your life and go on the road with him?” She asked with a disapproving tone.

“I am.” I said gently. “You know how miserable I've been since Jake passed. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I need to take it. I need to get away from that house, those memories. It's time for me to stop mourning and start living.”

She paused a second before continuing, “I haven't heard you so happy since Jake died,” she admitted. “And you're right, it's a once in a lifetime opportunity. I'm just going to miss you so much.”

“Sweetie, I'll miss you too, but I'll still keep my house for us to visit when we are in St. Louis and we can Skype whenever we want,” I answered.

“I'm really happy for you though. So, is he everything you'd dreamed he would be?” Her voice took on a teasing tone.

“Yes. And more.” I admitted. “I feel as comfortable and happy as I was with Jake.”

“I'm so glad.” She replied.

We stayed talking on the phone for a while, discussing the ways that my life had changed and what my plans are for the future. We also talked about our church, her family and everything happening back home.

I was still on the phone when the boys got back. They were still rowdy. Colby was flicking Fergal with a wet towel as they walked over to me. Ferg bent over and kissed my forehead. “Who's on the phone,” he whispered.

“My best friend.”

“Hi best friend!” he yelled out.

Colby had to join in, “Hi best friend!” He yelled too. “Is she single?” Colby asked.

“No!” I whispered as I heard Stacey laughing.

“I'm going to let you go so you can get ready for dinner.” Stacey said. “Please call me in a couple of days.... don't leave me hanging here.”

“I promise. Things are changing so fast here, but I promise to keep you updated.”

Both of the guys had disappeared into their bedrooms. Once off the phone, I decided that if Fergal was showering, I should join him. As I guessed, I heard the shower when I entered the bedroom. I quickly stripped down and headed to the bathroom. Fergal was stepping out of the shower when I got there.

He looked me up and down, “What are ya doin'?” He cocked an eyebrow at me as he reached for a towel and started drying off.

“I was hoping for another shower with you.” I said.

“I'm done with my shower, luv” He teased. “But I wouldn't mind getting dirty again.” He reached out and pulled me closer to him. He laid a blazing hot kiss on my lips then trailed his mouth down to my neck. He kissed, sucked and nibbled his way from my ear down to my collarbone. His hands ran down my back and grabbed my ass gently. “Let me finish drying off. Why don't you go get started and I'll join you in a second?” He placed his hands on my shoulders, turned me around and playfully slapped my ass to push me to the bedroom.

“Get started?” I knew what he meant, but I was shocked at the request.

He wrapped his arms around my waist again. He pressed his wet chest against my back, and his semi hard penis grew as it touched my ass. Lowering his mouth to my ear, he ran his tongue over the shell for a second then seductively said, “You heard me right. Go touch yourself. I want to watch you please yourself.” I gasped slightly, but did as he requested.

I laid on the bed, feeling very exposed, but then I guess that was the whole point. I started with my nipples... twisting, gently pulling them, getting my nipples even harder than they already were. I looked over to see Fergal hanging his towel up and staring at me. He slowly walked into the bedroom, walked past the bed and grabbed a chair that was in the corner of the room. Once he turned back toward me, his eyes locked onto my hands. He watched me as he brought the chair to the end of the bed. His cock was fully erect now, and I wanted it. I wanted him, but he was going to make me wait. He placed his hand on my left foot and slowly, gently, he trailed his fingers up my body until he reached my hands. He grabbed me by the wrists and slowly dragged my hands down in between my legs. “Make yourself cum for me,” he growled as he sat in the chair he'd just moved.

I wasn't exactly comfortable being on display for him, but I couldn't deny it turned me on even more; especially because he looked at me hungrily.

I began slowly exploring my pussy, teasing the lips, dipping a finger inside to get wet then running my finger over my clit. I was awarded with a slow deep growl from Fergal. “You look so beautiful.” He said. “Keep going.”

At his prompting, I continued slowly circling my clit with my finger, and a moan escaped me. “Does t'at feel good?” Fergal asked, and I moaned again. I heard him move the chair closer. “Keep goin'” He added. “I wanna see ya make yourself cum.”

I continued teasing my clit, but I had to admit I was uncomfortable being on display like I was. It wasn't that there was anything wrong with putting on a show for him, but I wasn't used to this. He moaned as I slid two fingers inside me to caress my g-spot. The sound of it was so sensual. It spurred me on. I was close to cumming when he cleared his throat, “move your fingers back up to your clit, luv.” He rasped out. I knew I'd cum faster with the g-spot, but if he wanted me to cum by my clit, then he would get it.

My fingers returned to my bead and began quickly brushing over it. I was squirming now, wanting to cum, but unable to. I knew if I was going to cum, I was going to need to stop trying to be sexy for him and just be myself. With that, I curled my fingers and began scraping my nails over the sensitive spot. Another moan escaped me, and Fergal stood to get a better view. “My luv likes things a little rough, doesn't she?” he asked as he ran his hand up my thigh. It was then that I realized he was stroking himself in the same rhythm as me. That made me moan even more. “Do you want this?” Fergal said as he came around to my side of the bed and stroked his cock right beside my face. I couldn't talk now. I couldn't tell him how much I wanted him, but he saw my eyes pleading for him.

He climbed on the bed next to my head. “Open up. Get ready to suck my cock.” He ran his thumb over my bottom lip and pushed my mouth open. As he grazed my bottom lip with his cock, I reached my tongue out to lap up the pre-cum on his dick. He moaned at the contact and wrapped a hand around the back side of my head, gently pulling my mouth over his dick. He filled my mouth and moaned as he watched me please myself. “T'at's a good girl.” He praised as I began to suck hard. “T'at's a very good girl.”

He began to buck instinctively into my mouth just as I felt my orgasm begin to rip through my body. I immediately stopped moving my hand, and he pulled it away from my sex only to reach down and gently slap my clit. FUCK! He slapped it twice more, which extended my orgasm. I knew I wasn't doing any good at sucking him, but he didn't seem to care. My mouth was around him, and he was helping me cum even more.

As my orgasm was ending, I focused my attention to sucking his cock, and I expected him to let me, but he pulled away from me.

He moved to the end of the bed and sat back down in the chair. Wrapping his arms around my legs, he pulled me down so my pussy was lined up with the end of the bed. I moaned as he flicked his tongue over my clit then flattened his tongue to run it over my slit. The second time over, he allowed the tip of his tongue to slide inside me a little, and with each subsequent lick, he went deeper and deeper inside me. “I want you to cum for me again.” He whispered just before curling his tongue inside me and hitting my g-spot. His tongue was phenomenal, and each lick, each suck, each gentle nibble was moving me closer and closer to the edge again.

This man's mouth. I could live just for this man's mouth. I collapsed in a shaking moaning mess as he kissed his way up my body and easily pulled me up higher on the bed, burying his head in my neck and said, “T'at's my lass. Feel better now?” He sucked my earlobe as his hand played with my nipple. I moaned; unable to form words, and a shit eating grin spread across his face again. He adjusted his position and ran his hand to his dick to guide it inside me so slowly. It was excruciatingly slow. All I wanted was to cum again, but Fergal was going at his own pace. Slow steady strokes. The concentrated look on his face told me how difficult it was for him to keep the slow pace, but I had to admit it felt wonderful. He always felt wonderful.

He sat up and pulled my legs onto his shoulders, causing him to go deeper inside of me. He began to thrust faster and faster as his dick slammed into the back of my pussy. Faster and faster over and over until he grumbled out, “NOW!” my orgasm overtook me as he filled me with his hot cum. We didn't move for a minute. He stared at me, and I stared at him as we both came back to reality.

He collapsed next to me on the bed and wrapped his big arms around me. I ran my fingers sensually up and down his arm and tilted my head to lean against his. “Thank you.” was all I could say.

“No need ta t'ank me, luv. I should be t'ankin' you.” He smiled at me.

“No. I'm certain I got the better end of that deal.” I chuckled.

He paused for a second and said, “Can we agree to disagree?” He pecked me on the lips. “Now about that shower.....” His eyes glinted as he guided me out of the bed.

[samthewrestlingfan]

BELIEVER: Part 2

Hi Lovebugs!

Thank you all so much for the support so far for this series. It’s a very different kind of story for me, (hence the every other week updates) but I’m loving the challenge!

I want to make this series a little darker though, so the next chapter might be a bit more intense! Don’t worry though, I’ll put warnings on everything!

Characters: Finn Balor/OC (Feat.other Superstars)

Warnings: Angst, Occult.

Taglist: @wrestlingbabe, @caramara3, @camm-wow, @isawthesights, @blondekel77, @alexahood21, @panda-girl1999, @wweburnitdown, @nickysmum1909

Please let me know what you think, also if you would like to be tagged! 

Love you all. <3

I was dragged into a quiet, dark corner of the hallway by my rescuer, hidden behind crates and toolboxes.

Finn stood before me, pacing back and forth. He ran his hands through his hair a few times before pausing in front of me. “Are you alright?”

I blinked a few times before shaking my head in confusion. “Am I alright?“ 

He nodded.

"I don’t even know what ‘alright’ is anymore.” I felt my voice shaking as I spoke. How can a person expect to be okay after that?

Finn came close to me, tilting my head up by my chin. He inspected my face like he wanted to make sure there were no marks on it.

He looked in my eyes as he stroked my cheek with his thumb. “I’m sorry I didn’t get out there sooner. I just–well…they wanted to make sure it was really me that was comin’ for ya.”

I sat down on a milk crate and looked up at him, “What the the hell does that mean?”

Finn shook his head, “Not now, Love. That’s a chat for another time. Did he hurt you at all? Any marks on ya?”

I shook my head quickly. “No I–” My brain must have reconnected with my the rest of me, because my body began to ache. I lifted my shirt slightly, exposing my torso to his view.

“F’ fuck sake…” He breathed. I was covered in bruises, all of which were the size of Bray’s hands. Finn ran his rough fingertips over the purple skin, causing my breath to hitch in pain.

“Shit…” I seethed through my teeth. I looked up to Finn; his eyes that were full of worry, slowly grew darker.

“He shouldn’t have touched you…”

I stood as quick as I could, and moved closer to Finn, I touched his arm to try and gauge his emotions. For a moment, I felt the genuine concern and worry he had for me, and the disdain and hatred he had for Wyatt. Suddenly though, that all disappeared and I got nothing. All I could feel was a shield put up, and I heard–wait, is that someone laughing?

He ripped his arm away quickly, and I glanced at him more confused than I originally thought possible, "Finn you don’t even know me. Why did you come out there?” “I know ya a little. An’ even if I didn’t, I’d know ya enough to know you’re the type that attracts trouble.”

I scoffed in disgust, “Are you trying to tell me this is my fault? Bray is a psychopath, and you’re blaming me for him molesting me in the middle of the ring!?” I was shouting at this point, earning ‘shh’s’ from Finn.

“Shh! Calm down, Love. That’s not what I’m saying at all. I’m saying you’re–well you’re special, Ella. I new that, felt it from the first time I saw you. Granted our first encounter wasn’t exactly how I wanted ya to see me…”

A chill ran up my spine, the roar I heard come from Finn that day echoed in my ears. 

“But darlin’, I’m not the only one in this company that knows how valuable you are. I’m just the one with the best intentions.”

Finn’s eye returned to they’re beautiful aqua color as they stared into mine. He tucked a piece of hair behind my ear and returned his gaze to the ground. “I’m sorry.”

Do not fear the man, Ella.

I heard the voice repeating over and over in my head. Normally I wouldn’t question my intuition, but now is not one of those times. 

“I–I have to go.” My back pressed against the wall following it like a map to get out of there.

Finn approached me, “What? Why would you do that? Do you not remember what just happened out there?” He shouted, worry and anger in his voice.

My body flinched at his tone, “I uhh, I don’t feel well. I need to rest.”

Finn’s tense body relaxed, “I didn’t mean to startle ya, that’s the last thing I’d want to be doin’," 

I let out a sharp breath, I believe him. My nerves calmed a little as he spoke. "I just–I can’t leave you alone.”

“You don’t really have a choice Finn,”

“Pfft, You’re telling me.” He grunted, running his hands though his hair. “I don’t want you to get hurt because of me.”

“I’m in pain, and I need to heal. I have to see Hunter.” I groaned, clutching my sides.

At the mention of our leaders name, Finn body twitched. “Fine, at least let me help you.” He swept me off my feet, and carried me down the hall. 

We were half way to HHH’s office when Finn let out a laugh.

“What’s so funny?” I asked with my eyes closed, face buried in his neck.

“I’m glad ya feel so safe, Love.”

My eyes sprung open, and my head perked up causing a shooting pain down my neck. “Who said I felt safe? You terrify me if I’m honest.”

“That’s not what you’re body is tellin’ me…" 

It was then I realized I must have transferred to Finn without feeling it. I laid my head back down, and closed my eyes. 

"Yeah well, don’t push you’re luck.”

—

Finn left me almost an hour ago. I sat in HHH’S office waiting for him, or really anyone to save me from my own thoughts.

Stay with him. Stay with the King.

“What the hell does that mean?! You’re supposed to be helping me! Not giving me riddles!” I shouted at the voice inside me. Usually my little side kick was so much help, now it’s only speaking in half-thoughts.

He dare not harm you. He needs you too much.

I groaned aloud. “I don’t know who 'He’ is!”

My thoughts were interrupted by the feeling of HHH getting closer. His office door opened quickly, and in he walked, clothes bloodied, and covered in sweat.

“Ella…” Hunter breathed. I ran to him, embracing his big body in a warm hug.

My worry filled eyes scanned his face, “I don’t know what the hell that was, Hunter. Bray–he’s never been so bold like that.”

Hunter’s fists slammed onto his desk. “He was dealt with…for now. That sadistic son of a bitch enjoyed it though.”

“We enjoyed it too boss, don’t worry,” I looked over my shoulder to see Dean, Roman, and Seth all slathered in blood. 

Dean smiled at me, “Hey Dollface. Why so glum? We handled that asshole for ya.” 

I let out a small chuckle, before walking over to hug them all. “I don’t know what I did to deserve your protection, but thank you guys.”

“Aulelei, you help us constantly. Ya heal us when we need it, and you cut our shit down to size when we deserve it too.” Roman was so kind to me, he had the biggest heart and always had a drive to keep me safe.

“Bottom line is, ya need us, were there. Got that, Els?”

I nodded at Seth as he ruffed my hair. Hunter cleared his throat as he wiped his hands on a towel he pulled from his duffel bag.

I stood across from him, fiddling with the hem of my shirt. “Hunter?”

He glanced at me quickly. “Bray called me Abigail. Why would he do that? He’s known me since I got here, he can’t think–”

My ears began to ring with a familiar laugh as the door opened once more. Finn walked in, without so much as a knock.

The men behind me growled and moved me behind them. Dean, Seth and Roman were all in attack stance, and that’s when I looked to Finn. 

His body was more chiseled, his features much sharper, his eyes dark as ocean water. He was in his ring and leather jacket, and his face was plastered with a devilish grin. 

I looked behind him to read his aura–black as smoke. That’s when I realized this wasn’t Finn. It couldn’t be.

I grabbed Dean’s wrist and let him feel my fear. He pulled me close to him, “I gotcha, Doll.”

Finn. or well, Not-Finn must have noticed, because the smug look fell from his face and was replaced with a down right dangerous one.

“Let her go, Mutt. Don’t wanna be causin’ a scene now." 

Hunter nodded at the men surrounding me, "Dean–let her go.”

Dean growled as he moved away from me. leaving HHH to be the only thing to separate Finn and I.

“Balor I specifically told you to back off tonight.”

Balor? Is that who this was?

He scoffed, “If it wasn’t for me you’re little witch over there would be dead as a door nail.”

“Excuse me?”

Everyone turned and looked at me like a farted in church or something. Balor chuckled at my brashness. “Bray was right, you’ve got a bit of a mouth on you, Love,”

He mocked me with his tone, I stepped from behind Hunter and stared at him. “Unlike him though, I like it." 

Balor moved with inhuman speed toward me, and grabbed my hand. "Name’s Balor.” He planted a small, sarcastic kiss on the top of my hand.

“I-I-I…” I stuttered, how the fuck do I respond to this?

“Don’t worry about it, Finny-Boy has told me all I need to know. Foolish man, spends his days pinin’ after ya, ”

He spun me in a small circle. “and he spend his nights pinin’ after your body and believe me, I can see why.”

Balor’s eyes took me in. He studied every part of me, almost like he had seen it before, and was getting re-acquainted. 

“Enough Balor. We’re done.” Hunter slipped his arm between us. 

Balor looked at him with dark eyes. “You’re lucky, Hunter. If Finn didn’t have so much respect for ya, that might have crossed the line with me.”

“What the fuck did you do to Finn?!” I shouted before my brain had a chance to filter it. Balor chuckled. “Oh, Finn’s still here,” He tapped the side of his temple. “Just needed him to take the back seat for a minute.”

He laughed again, “He’s begging me not to hurt ya, not to touch ya…’ Balor reached out to pull me to him, but the boys stopped him.

"Balor! That’s enough! One more step and I’ll give you a shot of Temperance. What good is Finn to you if his body is asleep?”

Hunter moved to his desk and pulled out a syringe filled with silver liquid. The same syringe Roman stabbed him with during the first attack.

“You need me, don’t forget that Hunter,” He spun to me, locking eyes with me. “They need me, almost as much as I need you. I’ll be seeing you again, Darling,” Balor mocked, “Don’t forget, I’m always here.” He winked, before stepping back away from me.

Balor closed his eyes, opened his arms wide, and recited what sounded like gibberish. In moments he collapsed on the ground.

When his eyes opened again, they were bright, crystal clear blue. “Finn?” I asked softly.

He was breathing heavy, and in a cold sweat. I quickly shrunk down onto my knees, “Finn please, let me help you.” I begged him, but he couldn’t respond, and I saw him losing consciousness fast.

I closed my eyes, and pressed my forehead to his. “Just breath, Finn,” I looked back to HHH, “Do you have any Oil of Pine?”

He ran to his desk and pulled out the small stopper bottle. “Put some in my hands.” Hunter did as he was asked. I pulled a hair from my head, and one from Finn’s, placing both in my palms, and rubbing my hands together.

My hands rested on either side of his neck, and I began to recite the spell.

“Mise liom leis, agus leis liom. Is é an fuinneamh a thugtar an fuinneamh atá glactha.”

 It took a few minutes, but eventually Finn gasped for breath. His breathing returned to normal, and his aura returned to it white/blue mix. 

“Get him to the hotel.” Hunter ordered. Roman and Seth lifted Finn together. 

“Ella you’re gonna stay with him. Heal him if he needs it again. The stronger Finn’s mind is, the less chance of there being a Balor takeover.”

I nodded, “Dean, take her in you SUV. Make sure she’s safe.” Dean stood and threw me over his shoulder. “C'mon, Dollface. Dean-o’s gotcha…”

—

“You sure? I don’t think this is the best idea Ella.” Roman protested. 

I sighed, “I can handle this guys. Besides if he wakes up and you three are here, you might trigger something within him." 

Dean kicked the wall in the hotel, "You need us, you call. Understand?” I nodded kissing his cheek. “Thanks, Guys." 

The three of them walked down the hall, reluctantly, but they did. I walked back into our hotel room and saw Finn sitting up in bed. 

"Finn?” I questioned. He cleared his throat, “Hey, Love. Miss me?" 

I let out a small laugh, "Yes actually–How are you feeling?”

He sat up more, groaning as he did. “I’m alright. Nothing I’m not used too. Thank you for healing me, usually I’m out for a few hours after a shift.”

Don’t fight it, Ella. You two are destined. 

I put my hand on his, feeling his gratitude, but I also felt Balor wading just below the surface–dormant, but he was there. 

“I’m sorry about all of this. Ella. If I could stop it I would.” He spoke with such shame in his voice.

I cleared my throat, “Stop what?”

“Balor–he wants ya. I don’t know what for, but when he saw ya, he kept playin’ with my mind. Makin’ me see you everywhere I turned, dreamin’ about you, anything he could do to make me want you too. That’s why I kept my distance from ya as best I could,”

I thumbed his torn up cheek bones, he is so gentle. How is someone so gentle and kind mixed with something so dark? 

“Those eyes make keepin’ my distance pretty hard though.” He smiled shyly, causing me to blush. I jokingly punched his arm before my thoughts were consumed again.

"Finn, what is Balor? He knows about me–my abilities.”

He sighed. Finn clearly did not want to be having this conversation, and I didn’t have to read his mind to see that. His eyes were full of pain and shame. “He’s my other half. He’s been with me since I’ve existed, but I only call on him when I need a little…push.”

As Finn went on, I understood more and more. “Balor is older than time itself. He does what he want’s when he wants.”

My eye’s widened when I realized what Finn was telling me. Balor wasn’t his alter ego, Balor lived within him. His demon was real.

“That’s why I know whatever he want’s with you must be important. He wouldn’t hesitate to take it from you if it was something irrelevant.”

The tears in my eyes surprised me, I didn’t even realize I was crying until I felt them fall onto my cheeks. “Ella, please don’t worry Love.”

“Finn there is a Demon King after me for some unknown fucking reason. I have maniac that thinks I’m his dead sister, and I’m still trying to figure out what the hell I am and why the voice in my head is telling me to trust you despite the fact that you’re body is housing the demon in the first place!”

I inhaled after that breathy babble. Finn pulled me to him and held me close, “Ella look at me.”

My eyes tear-filled eyes found his strong ones. Finn placed a small kiss on my forehead. 

“I’m never going to let anyone hurt you. Not even me. That’s why it’s important to keep me close but Love, if I tell you to run…run.”

My heart raced from the ghost of his lips on my skin. It was quick, less than a second, but it sparked something in me. I needed to be near him, and by the looks of it, he needed me the same. 

I nodded furiously, “Okay.” I stood from his bed, moving to my own. “Get some rest now, Finn. You need it.”

He laughed, “Love, you’re one to talk.”

I climbed into the bed and laid on my side, my eyes on Finn. “Sweet dreams, Love.”

I closed my eyes and smiled, “Let’s hope so…”

A/N:  Mise liom leis, agus leis liom. Is é an fuinneamh a thugtar an fuinneamh atá glactha.

Translation: I am with him and he is with me. The energy given is the energy taken.

Aulelei

Translation: Beautiful.

[the-kings-tail-fin]

Lets see the story of mater/holleys first kiss/ "I love yous"! It's interesting with the separation in the middle of it!!!

“This is very nice, Mater.” Holley said, looking around the restaurant. “I wasn’t expecting this at all.”

“Anything for you, m’lady.” Mater bowed slightly as he parked across the table from her. 

He’d planned this date out weeks ahead of time. The racing team was scheduled to be in the city that weekend, so Mater took advantage of it, finding the nicest place he could to take her on a date.

The venue was dimly lit by real candlelight and soft, turned down lamps. Their table was next to a window facing out towards the street so they could watch the world go by while they enjoyed each other’s company.

“It’s been such a long time.” she commented, looking at him. He’d cleaned himself up enough to be allowed in, and was wearing that funny bow-tie vanity plate for added flair. 

“You’re tellin’ me.” he agreed. “But not much has happened ‘round here since then. How’s work goin’ for you? I ain’t heard from Finn lately.”

“Ugh.” she rolled her eyes. “We’ve been chasing the same guys for weeks now and we’re not getting anywhere. Honestly, we could really use some extra help. They’re just too elusive.”

“Well, if I wasn’t so busy helpin’ McQueen out, I’d be more than willin’ to help  y’all.” Mater said, trying to hide his constant concern for her. He knew that her line of work could get even more dangerous than what he’d experienced.

“I appreciate that.” Holley smiled at him. “But it’ll be fine. It’ll work out…”

The waiter came by, welcomed them, and took their orders. Mater couldn’t understand half of what was on the menu. The language was so elaborate, he waited until Holley ordered and then just said he wanted what she was having. 

“Anyway,” Holley picked up after they were alone once again, “I hear this season’s going great for your team.”

“Yeah!” Mater grew overly enthusiastic. “It’s been goin’ really well. We’ve won ten races so far!”

Holley loved to see him excited about anything. Aside from his overwhelming chivalry, it was that carefree enthusiasm she found most appealing about him. She sometimes wished she could feel like that. It must be so freeing.

“Maybe I can make it to one someday. I’d really love to - “ Holley froze. 

“What’s wrong?” Mater asked, noticing the drastic change in her composure. She’d gone from relaxed and happy to completely rigid in a mere moment.

Holley turned to look directly out the tinted window. There was some suspicious loitering across the street. She squinted and scanned the cars to double check that she wasn’t seeing things. No, they were really there.

“That’s impossible.” she whispered. “They were in Beijing not two days ago. What are they doing here?”

“Holley…” Mater was visibly discomforted.

“I - I’m sorry Mater.” Holley turned back towards him, but kept glancing out the window. “It’s just- those criminals I told you about? That’s them. Across the street there.”

Mater looked outside to see what she was talking about. They did look mighty suspicious. And he noticed they were staring straight at them. The window wasn’t completely opaque from the outside looking in.

“They’ve seen us.” Holley whispered. “We’re not safe here. I’m terribly sorry, Mater.”

“Hey, it’s okay.” Mater was disappointed, but understood. “What should we do?”

“We can’t put everyone in here in danger.” Holley assessed the situation. “We need to get out and lure them away, and then lose them. There’s a door over there. Let’s go!”

They bolted from their table and made a beeline for the secondary entrance. It led out into an alley where they quietly, but quickly navigated their way to the next street over. Holley kept looking back to make sure Mater was with her. Since they’d removed his weapons, he was essentially defenseless against armed criminals. She had to protect him.

They rounded a corner into another narrow alley to try and stay off the roads and out of plain sight. Between the maze of buildings, they eventually stopped to rest in a secluded alcove.

“I think we lost them.” Holley said, scanning the area. “But we need to be careful. I need to get you back to your hotel.”

“But I want to help!” Mater protested. “I don’t like seein’ you out here on your own. Them guys looked perty tough.”

“Oh, Mater.” Holley gave him an affectionate little tap on the side as she tried to act like it wasn’t a big deal. “You know I can handle my- “

“Well, well, well.” a voice said with a Russian accent from a balcony above them. “You think you can run from us that easily? We’ve been following you, agent. You cannot hide from us.”

Holley immediately went on the defensive, positioning herself in front of Mater and baring her tasers. They were everywhere, and they had real guns. She counted six that she could see. Without Finn, she doubted she could take them all on by herself.

“Holley, what’re you doin’?” Mater asked her, trying to in turn protect her.

“I’ve got this, Mater. Trust me.” she whispered back at him.

He trusted her, but he wasn’t about to stand by and do nothing. He watched as more of them appeared around the corner. Holley saw them too, and knew how Mater would react if given the chance. No matter what she said to him, he was inevitably going to get wrapped up in the situation if she didn’t do something quick. She wasn’t about to let history repeat itself.

There were too many of them, completely surrounding Holley and Mater. Holley began to panic. Her priorities changed from getting herself and Mater out of there to just making sure he made it to safety. She relaxed and put away her weapons.

“You boys want me? Well, come on. Take me. Time’s wasting away.” she taunted them, driving towards them.

“Holley!” Mater couldn’t believe what he was seeing.

The Russians weren’t fooled. They were smarter than that. They kept their weapons pointed toward her as they slowly drove closer. 

Holley waited until all eyes were on her. They clearly considered her a threat, as opposed to Mater. They would care less about him. When Holley was convinced of this, she spun around, and gave him a quick little kiss on his fender.

“I love you, Mater.” she said with an apology written in her eyes.

She immediately bared her wings and rockets and blasted straight up into the sky. The criminals started shooting and yelling, issuing orders to keep her in their sights. As she flew over the buildings, they all scrambled to chase her on the ground. Less than ten seconds passed and Mater was suddenly alone.

He didn’t move. He looked down at the spot on his fender where she’d kissed him. She’d told him she loved him. He’d never had anyone say that to him that wasn’t family. He’d never had anyone love him in a romantic sense. He looked up at the sky. The love of his life had just flown away into a spatter of gunfire with not a word of warning.

His mind came around and decided to function again, and he panicked. He was so helpless. There was nothing he could do. He needed help.

Several uncaught traffic violations later, he burst through the doors of the hotel the racing team was staying at. Half the town of Radiator Springs was checking out in the lobby. They hadn’t planned on seeing Mater back this soon, let alone in such a state of dissociation.

“Guys!” he yelled and rushed over to them. 

They all turned to ask him what was wrong. He started to speak, but his words weren’t making any sense. Lightning came up to him and attempted to calm him down, but it was useless. Mater couldn’t hear or understand anything other than his own emotions. All the town could make out was “Holley”, “bad guys”, and something about gunfire and her flying away. 

Days passed. They returned to Radiator Springs in between races and took on the task of handling Mater’s meltdown. Lightning spent as much time as he possibly could trying to talk to him. After Mater’d worn himself out, Lightning got a chance to talk, trying to assure him that Holley knew how to handle herself, that she’d made it this far without really getting hurt. He tried to tell Mater that sometimes all you can do is wait out bad situations and hope for the best. If she was okay, she’d contact him as soon as she could.

Mater appreciated the kind words, but wasn’t overly comforted. He kept replaying her last words over and over in his mind. Each time they grew a little fainter, and he was afraid of losing the clarity of the memory. What if it was the last one he ever got from her?

Dusk started to settle in over the desert on the fourth day after the incident. Mater backed into his shack and prepared for another night of worrying and overthinking. The traffic out on the road was starting to die down for the day. Typically the sound of passing motorists was comforting and relaxing, but now it was just annoying.

Out of nowhere, a familiar sounding engine approached. Mater opened his eyes and glanced down the road. He blinked a couple times, wondering if his mind was playing cruel games on him. 

“Mater!” she yelled from nearly a quarter of a mile away. 

“Holley!” he returned, feeling the euphoria of all the stress and worries leaving his mind.

He crashed through his front gate and skidded out onto the road to meet her. She was as relieved to see him as he was her.

“I can’t believe it!” Mater said. “Are you alright? Please tell me you’re fine.”

“Oh, I’m fine.” she said. “They clipped my wing so I had to drive all the way here, but we got them! They won’t be giving us any more trouble.”

“Holley, I was so worried.” he felt like he was going to tear up. “There’s a lot I never got to tell you.”

She looked at him and held his gaze. She felt so bad for leaving him the way she did, and she couldn’t imagine how he felt. He started to say something more but she shushed him.

“I owe you an apology.” she stated. “I promise I’ll make up for it.”

She moved in for a more meaningful kiss, and he felt everything he needed to say be expressed in that action. At peace, they could continue on with their lives.

[smiteandignitekarthus]

FUCKING READ THIS MY GIRL IS FUCKING TALENTED OMG

Katie Chapman Mr. Price 3rd hour 6/3/15 The REAL Last Chapter Now you may think that The Adventures of Huck Finn is over, seeing as the chapter was called “Last” and all, but it ain’t yet. If you’re willin’ to hear it, I gots a few more details to say that good ol’ Mr. Twain couldn’t get outta me. When me and Jim was floatin’ on down the Mississippi, we ran into a little trouble that I w’rnt ready to talk about yet when I was asked to talk long before that book came out, but Jim’s been tellin’ me I outta just come out with it. He says it’s bad luck for a young boy to be keepin’ secrets from all you people, or somethin’ like that. “Jus’ come on, Huck. Tell ‘em ‘bout tha story, ain’t nobody gon’ think diff’ntly o’ve yah. Yah wanna keep’n good wit dah spirits don’ yah?” So this one’s for Jim, I s’pose, and ‘cuz I’m goin’ crazy here in Aunt Sally’s house a “sivilization” and I need somethin’ to keep me from goin’ barkin’ mad. It was just after we’d left the Grangerford massacre, Jim and I went down the river just a short ways. Seein’ the murderin’ of Buck and his kin was a lot for me to handle at the time, but I was gettin’ over it pretty quick. We was just maybe thirty mere minutes off the land where i left the bodies when i decided to start looking around for somewhere new to go. All’ve a’sudden my eyes got themselves set on something over on the island that we had just done left. At first I was sure it was just a strange lookin’ bush, but as we got closer it got all clear; it was a girl. Now I done been around plenty of girls, but she was a diff’nt kinda sight. Her long brown hair was nice and breezy in the wind, and her face was like a little angel from that heavan that Aunt Sally been talkin’ ‘bout; she was the purdiest thing I’d ever seen. “Jim,” I says, “do you see that too?” “See what mistah Huck? Ain’t nothin but a little girl wadin’ in dah watah.” “Isn’t she purdy, Jim? Isn’t she a rare such sight?” “Why mistah Huck, I hain’t nevah seen yah like this evah be-foe. I think a little boy is tuhnin’ intah a man.” I sat there on the raft, tryin’ to look away from this girl. I didn’t wanna become a man yet, I’m happy bein’ a boy, well in the respect of bein’ with girls n’such. I looked over to Jim and he was givin’ me this strange kinda grin. “Now, what’s that face for Jim? You thinkin’ of a funny joke or somethin?” “Nah mistah Jim. I thinks you’s in love. You’s fallin’ intah feelins’ for a little girl.” “No Jim, you gots it all wrong. I just ain’t never seen somethin’ like this before, and we’re gonna go check it out.” Then i told him to steer us over back to the island, and towards the girl we headed. When we got to the island, the girl was gone. I had been so focused on trying to get the raft to the island that I done forgot to make sure she was still there. The night was comin’ close and I didn’t want to get caught in the middle of the woods in the middle of the night by a Sheperdson who had seen me with Buck and end the same way he did so me an’ Jim found a place to tie up the raft and slept out under a tree for the night. “Jim,” I says. “You think she’ll be back tomorrow?” “Well, mistah Huck, seems to me tha if she comin’ ‘round today theys a sr’ng pos-bilty tha she gon’ be back tm’row.” I don’t know why, but for some reason I sure hoped he was right. Sure ‘nough, Jim was right. We woke up when the sun was right up high in the middle of the sky and river was just a’shimmerin’ in the daylight. I got up and no sooner had I rubbed my eyes, they set their sights on that purdy little thing same as before. She was walkin towards me and Jim and had a curious look on her face, like she was tryin’ to figure out if we was real or not. “Hi there,” she calls out. “Well hello ma’am,” I replied real polite-like. “What’s your name? I’m Deliah but everyone calls me Delly.” Gosh, even her voice was mighty purdy. I found myself stutterin’ a deal and gettin’ all choked up. “The name’s Frank Hill, this here’s my nigger Julius. We live up the river a ways, or really lived. These men showed up one day while we were tending to our horses and without no warning shot my poor old Pa dead and my momma died a shock a just seein’ her husband bein’ killed and all. I woulda been shot too i s’pose but Julius here hid me behind a tree and blocked me from the men. I guess the men didn’t have no need for killin’ a nigger cause they just pranced right on by without a word to be said. With my Ma and Pa both dead and no one but a nigger left in the world, i built this raft here and we went a sailin’, and that’s how we come to be here.” She looked at me real concerned and opened her mouth to speak, but shut it before making a sound. “My Ma and Pa are lookin for a new nigger to help with the animals and the house and we have an extra room. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind at all havin’ a few more people ‘round the house.” “That’s mighty kind of ya ma’am. I’ll talk to Julius and see what he thinks.” I looked to Jim with a smile. For some reason, the idea of going to stay with Delly and her family seemed so nice and i was sure hoping Jim would agree. “Now I don’ know ‘bout-” I had to interrupt. “Oh Jim it’ll only be for a little while,” I whisper so only Jim can hear me, “and then we can sneak away and keep goin’.” “Well I s’pose.” I turned back to Delly and gave her the biggest smile i could muster and said, “We’d be honored to have a place in your home.” She smiled real big and pretty and motioned for us to follow her. I was nervous goin’ to her house, especially ‘cause no one was sayin’ nothin’. I don’t know why but I really wanted her to like me, so that meant her family had to like me too. Finally, we were at the gate of her house and the walk of silence was over. Delly ran up to the door, “Mama, Papa, we have some people who need to stay with us!” All at once, a million similar lookin’ folks came hustlin’ out the huge fancy lookin’ door and on to the huge porch which easily fit them all. “Who you got there Delly,” says a big man who i figure to be the head of the house. “This is Frank Hill and his nigger Julius. They lived down the island a ways but some men killed his Ma and Pa and now all he’s all alone with only his nigger, so i told him they could live here.” Then she smiled really purdy-like at the crowd of people all together on the porch and the mood seemed to lighten. The big man smiled. “That’s mighty good of ya, Delly.” He turned to me and says, “Now tell me boy, you sure you want tah settle yourself with this big, mad family?” “Why, yes sir I would. Long as it’s okay that my nigger Julius here can stay right along with me. He’s the only thing close to kin I got left, and after the way he saved me from those men and I feel it’s my duty to keep him with me.” The man thought for a second, looked to me, then looked to Jim and said, “You willing to do some work?” “Yes suh I am,” Jim says back. Boy was I grateful for how willing Jim was in all this, I still haven’t paid him back properly for that. But anyways, the man’s face softened and he smiled real big. “Then it looks like we’ve added two new members to the clan,” he says and the whole porch cheered and laughed. An older woman, who we found out later was Delly’s Ma named Paula, led us inside and told us where was fixin’ to stay. She told us all about the people in the house and lemme tell ya, they’re sure an interestin’ bunch. Delly’s Pa’s name was Bill, they call him Big Papa Bill, i think its just to make his head a tad bigger than it is already but i don’t know for sure. He once wrestled a bear with only the two fists his mama borned him with and beat the poor bear so bad it ain’t even had the sense to stand up no more, he’s a real tough kinda man. Delly’s got a brother named Harney, gosh that name sounds familiar but i just can’t place it, probably my head messin’ with me I s’pose. They had some other cousins or somethin’ in the house before too but they went off and found their own lives’ somewhere in the gun makin’ business. “They had a job here and they finished it and now the problem is gone so they’s got no more business here,” Miss Paula explained. I almost asked what their business here was but somethin’ told me i didn’t wanna know. Miss Paula led me an’ Jim up a big staircase and down a hall filled with what seemed to be a thousand doors goin’ in every direction. When we got to the end of the big hall, she unlocked a door and told me that i was to stay here and it was mine until i didn’t wanna call it mine anymore and that there was some shirts and britches in there for me to wear. Then she told me to go find Delly and she will show me more a the house, and she took Jim out back to a separate house where I saw some more niggers hangin’ around. I wanted to go with her and Jim but I figured it best to do as she said so I set off to find Delly, that wasn’t so hard to do since it wasn’t hard to spot somethin’ so nice and pretty in a group a people, and ‘cause she was waiting for me just at the bottom of the steps. “Come on Frank,” Delly insisted, “it’s almost dark and there’s still so much i wanna show ya!” So I followed as she took me and showed me their kitchen that was bigger than ma and Pa’s place by double. “This is where Mama cooks dinner for all of us. I’ll tell ya, you’re gonna love her cookin’. She used to let our house maid Patrice do all the cookin’ but we all had a talk and agreed that Mama’s cookin’ was too good not to have her cook, so Patrice just tends to the gardenin’ and stuff now.” That made me wonder what Jim’ll be doin’ and if he’ll be happy here or not. I know he really don’t wanna be here but atleast we have a roof over our heads and some good food to eat along the way. Delly took me into the sittin’ room after that and there was a woman in a chair that I hadn’t yet been told about. I couldn’t see her face ‘cause she was turned away from the door but she looked mighty similar to a woman I had seen before. This time I had to let my curiousness get the best of me. “Who’s that girl there in the chair?” “Oh dear me, I almost forgot to tell you all about Sophia! She came to be with Harney, see she was a Grangerford.” Delly said the name Grangerford with such disgustedness that it made me a bit suspicious. At the sound of hearing her name, the girl Sophia turned around, and there it was plain as day. Sittin’ in that big ‘ol fancy chair across from me was Sophia Grangerford, Buck’s sister, the sister that ran away with a Sheperdson. I was tryin’ to figure out why on earth she was here and not with the Shepardsen boy when another thought hit me, Harney was Delly’s brother, Harney Sheperdson. Delly was a Sheperdson and I was livin’ with her. Oh how glad I was Buck was dead right then ‘cause he woulda shot me dead for bein’ held up by a Sheperdson, but I had to know for sure. “Delly?” “Yes,Frank?” “What’s your last name?” “Why, Sheperdson of course. I figured you’d have just assumed that. Everybody knows who we are, especially after we got rid of those rotten Grangerfords once and for all.” “Dell,” Sophia warned. “Sorry, Soph,” Delly apologized, “I forgot, no Grangerford talk around you.” “Say Dell, I know this boy. Name’s George Jackson, he stayed with us back at the old home. He was real good friends with my brother Buck.” “No no Soph, you must be tired. This here’s Frank Hill, and he’s just from down the river. Go get some rest before dinner, you look mighty pale.” “I s’pose you’re right Dell, I must’ve worked myself to hard today.” Sophia gave me one last questioning look before goin’ back to her spot on the chair she was in when we came. I had to get outta there. “Hey, I’m not feelin’ too good all of a sudden,” I gagged, “I’m gonna go talk to Julius. He always know how to handle me in this kinda situation.” “Okay Frank, feel better. Dinner is in a few hours so be back and ready by then, I’m going to go freshen up myself.” She turned and walked up the big staircase and disappeared into one of the million doors. I had to hurry, I didn’t wanna be stayin’ there any longer than I had too. I ran out back to the nigger house and found Jim right away. He was out laughin’ and jokin’ with all the rest of them slaves, he seemed to be enjoyin’ himself a mighty deal. I almost felt bad takin’ him out just as soon as he got all comfortable there, but we had to go. “Jim, we gotta go. These folks, they’re the Sheperdsons’. They find out who I really am and they gonna shoot me dead and you too for comin with me. I’ll tell ya Jim, first and last time I ever follow a girl anywhere. I done learned my lesson so you ain’t gotta say I told you so or nothin. Let’s just go.” And boy was I grateful in that moment for Jim not sayin’ nothin’. We just got up and ran. We ran to find our raft and sailed off into that mighty big river an’ never looked back.

[nicolewoo]

Speakeasy Part 1

Pairing: Fergal Devitt X Reader. Finn Balor X Reader

Scenario: Desperate to make enough money to live on during the great depression, Reader gets a job at a Speakeasy, and finds a dangerous ally. Can she trust this man and his stories or should she listen to her friend's advice and steer clear of him?

Warnings: Part 1 has no warnings. Future parts probably will.

The minute I walked in, I could smell it.... the stale smell of cigarette smoke and alcohol were practically oozing out of the walls. This wasn't going to be good for my throat, but then again, this wasn't going to be good for anything except paying bills. It's 1930 and a girl's gotta do what she's gotta do.... especially living alone in Chicago.

I had a job at a diner, but the breakfast tips weren't enough to get by, and I'd been frantically trying to get a job in a proper theater. The problem was that everyone wanted dancers that could sing. I had the singing part down. The dancing? Well, I've got 2 left feet. No matter how many lessons I took, I just couldn't dance. So, here I am, in a speakeasy, getting ready to try out for a bunch of mafia guys, risking getting arrested just so I could pay the bills.

Count your blessings, girl. A lot of people are a lot worse off. I told myself as I remembered leaving Hutchinson Kansas due to The Great Depression. I remembered the sight of homeless families and bread lines and brawls for crumbs. Yes, I was doing something illegal, but I was going to be able to live because of it.

I was shaken out of my thoughts with the sound of a trumpet squeaking out. I knew before I even looked that it was my friend Tony getting my attention. “You made it. You look great, doll.” Tony said coming up to me. “Let me introduce you to the band.” He placed his hand on the small of my back and led me over to the stage.

“Marty,” Tony called out getting the band leader's attention. “This is Y/N, the singer I told you about.”

Marty barely looked up from the sheet music he was reviewing, “Hey. Let's hear those pipes, doll.” He sounded less than enthusiastic. “Guys.” He yelled to the band. “Give me some Mean to Me.”  He motioned me over to the mic.

Ok, well, let's do this. I sidled up to the mic, trying to insert some extra swag into my walk so I'd look more experienced than I was. The music began and I reached up to hold the mic stand as I started to sing.

“You're mean to me. Why must you be mean to me?” Marty looked up with a look of surprise.

“Gee, honey. It seems to me. You love to see me crying.” Tony gave me a big thumbs up to encourage me.

“I don't know why. I stay home. Each night when you say you'll phone.” I started to see the band members nodding and smiling to each other.

“You don't and I'm left alone. Singing the blues and crying.” I saw a couple of men come from the back room to see who was singing, but I couldn't make out their faces in the dark room.

I was ecstatic to see such a great reception, and I was pretty sure I'd gotten the job. As the song swelled to the harder part, I focused on hitting all the right notes and making the song sound as sexy as possible.

I saw one of the men who'd come in from the back signal to Marty, but I didn't know what the signal meant. I peeked at Marty, but I couldn't read his expression. He made me wait until the end of the song.

“Ok, kiddo. You got the gig. We'll see how tonight goes, and if you do well, we'll talk about something permanent.” Marty showed no emotion. I'd gotten the impression that he'd gone through a lot of singers, and didn't expect any better from me. “Guys,” He yelled over the sound of instruments playing different sections of the songs and talking among themselves. “We start a full practice in ½ an hour, so go get some food now. We're gonna be busy tonight.” He dismissed the band with the same lack of emotion as when he'd hired me.

Tony ran to me as excited as me. “You did it, doll!” He hugged me tight. Then started to lead me outside. “Lets get some chow.” He said as he pointed to a diner across the ally from the speakeasy.

As we sat down, I asked, “So, does Marty want me here or what?”

Tony chuckled under his breath, “Oh yeah yeah! He doesn't show emotion,” he explained. “But don't worry. You're in!” He assured me.

“I didn't know what the signal was from the guys in the back.... or even who they were.” I explained.

“Yeah, Hey. So....” Tony paused. “Ya know not to talk about... ya know.”

He didn't finish his thought, but I knew what he meant. Although I'd never spent any time in this seedy underworld, I was no dummy. “Say no more.” I replied.

“Ok. If you have any questions, just come to me, but not at the club.” He assured me. “Just focus on singing and let them do their stuff.” His gaze bored a hole in me, and I nodded in understanding. “Most importantly,” Tony reached over and put his hand on my arm, “DON'T get romantically involved with any one there. Do you understand?”

“You don't have to worry. I know who they are.” I assured him.

Tony was like a big brother to me. He'd been a regular at the diner where I worked; me always starting my day as he was ending his over breakfast. We became great friends, and Tony and his wife had taken me under their wing, inviting me over for dinner, watching out for me. Working at the speakeasy wasn't what Tony and his wife wanted for me, but when I couldn't get a theater job, they had finally given in and got me the audition. Tony had promised his wife that he'd protect me from the going ons of the club.

After dinner, I sat with Marty going over what songs I knew and what songs I needed to get to know in order to keep working there. He was pleasantly surprised at my song knowledge, and we both felt we had enough to put on a good show tonight. It was perfect because Marty had had to sing himself since losing their last singer. We went over the songs with the band until we were comfortable with each other's styles.

Afterward, I practiced in the back, pouring over the pages of sheet music Marty gave me while tinkering the notes out on an old, out-of-tune piano in a side room, hoping to add in some of these songs soon. The closer we got to show time, the more anxious I got. It was more than if I'd be entertaining... I was worried about getting arrested. Tony had assured me that if the cops came in, and I couldn't get away in time, he'd bail me out before morning, but still. A proper girl like me didn't get arrested. What would my parents think if they were alive? I pushed those thoughts out of my head and tried to focus on the music again.

I heard the band start, happy music flooding through the whole building. I peaked out at the crowd and was shocked to see the club almost full already. What surprised me the most was the class of the people in the club. I had expected to see hardened criminals and desolate prostitutes, but instead, the crowd was full of Chicago's best. Ladies in fine dresses with fringes everywhere. Men in tuxedo suits sporting walking sticks and monocles. I glanced at my own aged floor length dress that I'd bought from a theater who was throwing it out, and lamented at the state of it. Would these rich muckedy mucks accept me in this ragged thing? Before looking at them, I thought I'd looked good, but now. Now, I was wracked with every insecurity I'd ever felt.

I saw Tony rise from his seat at the bandstand and come backstage to me. “You ready?” He asked all excited.

“Tony!” I almost started crying. “Those people. They're all so fancy. This dress is so old and ratty.” I started to say, but he placed his hand on my shoulder.

“Doll, the minute you open your mouth, everyone is going to fall in love with you. You've got the voice of an angel. We can buy you more dresses when you get paid. In the meantime, don't worry about it. You look amazing, and the stage lights are going to hide any imperfections in the dress.” He gave me a quick hug as I heard Marty announce me.

“Ladies and gentlemen, We've got a special treat for you this evening.” How the hell did Marty have emotion now? He sounded positively jovial. I guess he was just a good actor. “Tonight, for the first time at Club Red, we are proud to present our new singer, Y/N.”

The crowd responded to Marty's happy announcement with excited applause. Tony took my arm and escorted me out to stage, depositing me in front of the mic before taking his own seat in the horn section.

We started with Ain't Misbehavin', and the crowd went silent as they focused on me. I prayed they were enjoying the performance, and I poured every ounce of energy I could muster into making the song sound sexy. I wasn't sure how I was doing until the song ended, and the crowd went nuts! They were applauding and giving me standing ovations. I even heard some lewd whistles from near the back where the mob guys had been earlier. I was a hit!

When I turned to find out what song we were singing next, Marty smiled warmly at me. “You did great.” He whispered just to me. “Am I Blue” is next.

The music sounded and the crowd quieted as the slow song changed the mood in the room.

“Am I blue? Am I blue? Ain't these tears in my eyes tellin' you.”

Marty whispered over my shoulder, “Go walk through the crowd, engage them.” he encouraged.

“Am I blue?” I slowly left the stage, pleasantly surprised when the spot light followed me with no notice. “You'd be too. If each plan with your man just fell through.” I placed my hand on a lady's shoulder emphasizing the phrase and she reached up to pat my hand in understanding. I wandered to another table. “Was a time. I was his only one.” I crooned to a table of men, and they smiled broadly at me. “Now I'm the sad and lonely one.” I continued to wander through the crowded room, placing my hand on a shoulder here, singing closely into a gentleman's ear there. The crowd was eating it up. “Now he's gone, and we're through. Am I blue?”

My eyes settled on a man at the table next to me in the back of the room. He was quite frankly the most beautiful man I'd ever seen, with a chiseled jaw, perfect black hair, sparkling blue eyes and his black tuxedo, black shirt and white bow tie matched by a white pocket square. He oozed money and sex. Logically, his table should have been the next I visited, but the way he was looking at me... lustfully... deterred me, and I skipped his table. He made no indication that my turn away from his table bothered him, but his eyes didn't leave me for the rest of the song causing butterflies in my stomach. He gazed so intently at me, I felt like he could see through my dress to my naked body.

I managed to gather my wits again as the song ended and I walked back up to the stage. This job was too important to me. It was this or I ended up being the one in the bread lines tomorrow. I couldn't let anyone, not even this wickedly beautiful man, get in the way of me making this money.

I stayed on the stage the rest of the night. I already had the crowd eating out of the palm of my hand, I didn't need to pander to them anymore. At the end of each song, the crowd cheered for me, and I noticed the lone man in the back smile as he gauged the mood of the crowd.

It was late... very late.... and I was tired when the show ended. “Heya doll. How bout I give ya a ride home?” Tony said as I started leaving the club with an extra few bucks in my pocket as the sun peeked over the horizon.

I was so tired, I could barely speak, but I nodded yes to Tony. He was full of energy, praising my performance, telling me how happy he was. Saying he was sure I'd be hired permanently tomorrow. I fell asleep in the gently rocking car, and Tony laughed when he had to wake me up. “Guess you're gonna have to get used to the schedule.” He teased. “Good thing you're not working at the diner this morning.” After I thanked him for the ride, Tony watched until I was safely in my apartment building before heading to the diner to get some breakfast before he went to bed. I didn't care that I was hungry, I took off my dress and fell asleep in my underclothes.

I dreamed of music notes flying through the air, of gathering them in a bag and presenting them on beautiful sheet music to the guests. I dreamed of the smoky bar and the man seated in the back and that he paid me for one of my music sheets, a small contained smile on his lips.