AN 2/09: Another major change. Fluff between Moira and Nathan! I thought it was too cute to pass up with the revision going on. So yes, I'm making them realize their feelings earlier then before :) Hope you NathanxMoira fans appreciate it and... REVIEW IF YOU CAN! Cause I know FF is stupid and only lets members review a chapter once. Find one where you haven't if you must :D
Aw, sorry it took a while for this update! Hope it holds you over until next time! My longest chapter so far. It's like, eight thousand and something words. Whoa!
Tracks of Choice: "Be Silent, Be Still", "Syringe", "I Know Where You Sleep" by Emilie Autumn
Chapter 15: Partyklok
Only a week was left before the concert and already all of Russia was preparing for the day. Everyone from the bands were granted freedom from their exile, a big relief to those who didn't know of Moira's escapade. Implosion had resumed her old ways, but with more playful intent now. In the three weeks they had been in Yakov's home, she only managed to knee Nathan in the groin three times and slap him once on top of the constant bickering from the two head strong leaders normally had. At least their song was finally complete. Nathan could actually say he was very proud of the outcome. It wasn't completely metal, but learning a foreign language had sucked brutally. German… the language of metal in his opinion. Maybe because the language was harsh and not all pretty like Spanish, Italian or French.
It was November 23rd, one week exactly until the greatest concert took place. The streets of Russia were completely changed, everything black and metal, earning Nathan's Brutal Approval vote. Red Square was lined with fake dead bodies drenched in what everyone hoped (sort of) was fake blood, thus really giving the tourist spot a reason to be called Red Square.
On the top of Triumph Palace, Moscow's most prestigious apartment building, a large skull was mounted with neon lights spelling out Cancerous and Dethklok's name. Everywhere the bands went; hoards of people wore band shirts, dressing as their favorite musician or singer. For Dethklok, it was no biggie, but the girls' felt a great sense of pride. Just a year ago they were considered nobodies, and now they were one of the top bands in the world, even if Dethklok lent them a small hand. Perhaps it was for the better.
That night in Yakov Lebedev's lavish home, an exclusive party was to be held. The top names of Russia were invited to the pre-concert party. The guests of honor: Dethklok and Cancerous. Since it was to be Thanksgiving back in America, the head of Dethklok Russia felt it was his duty to have a party so the Americans didn't feel home sick. It didn't matter though.
General Crozier had some how managed to get himself invited after he offered to provide military backup from America. Since the United States did have the best military in the world, Ofdensen, Yakov and Crozier had settled on an agreement.
-----
The girls over took one of the guests house to get ready. Outside several battalions of klokateers stood to ward off any threat heading their way now that they came out of their hiding from the world. Ofdensen didn't worry too much; they would all be leaving on their rather slow trek to Magadan tomorrow morning with military backup from Russia and America. No words about the Undertakers had reached him as of yet, the home front assured him that everyone was safe, though Munkittrick was never found. Oh well. Shit happens when you deal with Dethklok. The fate of Cancerous would be dealt with after the concert, when hell week was over.
Cancerous was dressing up for the occasion, pulling out their expensive dresses made by the world's top designers that took them a while to save up for since eighty-five thousand dollars a year didn't quite cut it in one go.
Runa's dress was a long halter top dress with a front that dipped low into her cleavage and the back. On the left side was a long slit, stopping just below her hip with killer black stiletto heels with rhinestones on the straps of her shoes. Her feet had finally gotten a long needed pedicure, leaving behind a simple, yet always elegant french tipped nails. On her arms were gloves that went up to the middle of her forearms. In all, she was simply elegant with much such appeal.
Moira was putting on some hoop earrings, having finished slipping on a strapless dress with a sweet heart style front, hugging her torso and breasts like a second skin, the bottom hovering just above the floor, almost covering her open toed heels. Around her wrists were thick silver bracelets and on her neck was a simple black choker with a silver heart pendant.
Beside her was Cherry in a tight black cocktail tube dress, barely reaching past her rear, slipping on a necklace with black rhinestones and a skull hanging from the very end on her collar bone. Her shoes were similar to Runa's, minus the rhinestones.
Lucy was tying a red ribbon over her black dress, also strapless that flared around her from mid thing to her knees and on her feet was a pair of flats with a small red bow since she wasn't too fond of heels. When she was done, she examined her helf in the mirror.
Next to her, Bloodyfist was finishing fasting her collar that held up her dress with two straps in the front, leaving her chest bear. Her dress, like Runa's and Moira's, went to the floor over her pumps. She was a bit uncomfortable with wearing a dress near the boys, but the band had convinced her it suited her just fine instead of the slacks and dress shirt she had planned to wear in the first place. She sighed.
Aside from the costant jewlery changes, the girls made sure their hair was precise. Cherry, Runa and Lucy curled their hair, leaving Moira and Bloodyfist to leave theirs straight. The youngest one of them all slipped on a head band to make sure her curls didn't block the side of her face. Runa clipped the sides back away from her face. Cherry, whose hair for once didn't look like Pickles when he was in Snakes n' Barrles, left her hair alone. All of their makeup was simple. Eyeliner, lip gloss, skin toned eye shadow mixed with glitter and mascara. They all could pass for models.
They all left and went into the house, going through a somewhat secret passage to the second floor where they were to meet the boys and descend stairs into the main lobby where the party was to be held. All for show, naturally. Yakov had asked them to do it, and they complied.
-----
Dethklok was currently waiting for Cancerous to join them while Ofdensen went over a few things about their public appearance, not that they were really paying attention. Pickles tugged at his collar, trying to loosen his bow of the tuxedo so he could breath better. Skwisgaar and Toki were pollishing their shoes, their foot propped up on the coffee table. For the other two, they just stood there. Murderface grumbled to himself, hating the fact he was forced to wear a damn tuxedo and not a simple suit. Ties were much more breathable.
"Alright boys. I know you didn't hear a word I said, but hopefully you understand that at ten, reporters will ask you questions and you will answer to the best of your abilities without jeopardizing this concert. Do you understand?" The CFO straighted his bow tie.
"Think show. It'sh not like you told ush where the concert wash anyway. Ashhole. Uh… sorry. Didn't mean to say that out loud." Murderface didn't look like he was sorry though. The door to the study the men were in creaked open, the voices of the five women could be heard. As the girls entered, male band couldn't keep their eyes off them.
Moira was the first to step in, giggling at something one of the other girls had said. The first thing Nathan did was closed his mouth that had slacked at seeing Moira in a dress that fit her in all the right places. She was breath taking. The simplicity of her dress and her natural beauty made her look absolutely a sight to behold. When she stood beside him, she smiled up at him.
"You looks likes sometings out ofs stories book. A princess!" Toki said shyly leaned down to give Lucy a soft kiss, causing the girl to squeal in slight embarrassment. Toki's smile widen and he wrapped his arm around her shoulder, tucking her at his side. Lucy looped her left arm around his waist and rested her head on his shoulder.
Bloodyfist was the first to take Murderface's offered arm, clinging on to it in more than just a friendly way. Was something going on between them? The female rested her head against his shoulder and blushed, a bit embarrassed that Murderface was checking her out.
"Uh… you look n-nice, Bloodyfisht." Murderface forced himself to say. The woman darkened.
Skwisgaar's eyes roamed over his lover's body, admiring her form move about with such grace. Runa joined him and wrapped her arms around his neck, looking up into eyes and giving him a warm smile. The two exchanged a few compliments, causing the woman to giggle and whisper something in the male's ear. Everyone raised a brow at their flirtation, only Toki being the one to understand. Judging by his red face, it must have been dirty.
"Well, don't you look fine." Cooed Cherry, standing back and giving Pickles a look over. She whistled, putting one hand on her hips and the other on her chin. "Day-yum, boy, lookin' good, lookin' good." Pickles laughed.
"Well, since they're all here… uh… let's go." Nathan said, not really looking at anyone. Moira admired Nathan in a tuxedo. It suited him pretty well, although it was obvious he was uncomfortable. She was a bit relieved he left his hair as it normally was, definitely not digging it when it was neatly done.
Ofdensen nodded, "Very well. Are you ladies ready?"
"Ja, being away from all dem peoples makes me feels likes da worlds forgots me." Runa said as she stood beside Skwisgaar, her arms crossed over her chest. "I's sures I speaks for all us." The other women shrugged but agreed. Their manager opened the door and led them down the hall to the main staircase.
"Well, it's over. A few American soldiers are here to watch over you under General Crozier's command. Don't worry, everything is under control."
Moira creased her brows. "General Crozier?" she said, "I've heard of him before. What does he look like." Ofdensen searched the crowd and spotted the man. He pointed him out of the female vocalist. "Strange… he looks really familiar… like I've met him before." The elderly man as he stood by a large pillar, taking a small sip from his flute.
The CFO then remembered something, "Moira, Ivan's been assigned to be your guard for the night. As the leader of Cancerous, you make a prime target." Nathan resisted the urge to push his manager over the railing. Why that guy? "Everyone else, there will be a guard watching over you as well, but our main concern is Implosion."
Moira laughed and gave the CFO a small toothy smile. "I know I'm small, but I'm not a little kid, Charlie. I haven't needed anyone to hold my hand to cross the street in a long, long time. The boogey man can kiss my ass." She then shrugged, "But what the hell. My life is in his hands then." She took another glance at the general, "Though… I wouldn't have minded so much if it was Crozier. Good ol' American heroes like my old man, ya know?"
The classical music stopped. Ofdensen nodded at everyone who sighed, going over their moves. Girls on the left stairs, the boys on the right. They were to go down then meet in the middle in front of the beautifully constructed stage where the band was playing. All just to be flashy.
Standing on stage, Yakov addressed the crowd in English, "Ladies and Gentlemen. Thank you all for coming. To this pre-concert banquet party. It is my pleasure to introduce to you, Cancerous and Dethklok." The guests clapped, murmuring excitingly as they watched the band descend. For each and every one of them he called out their names.
The first to go and meet were the drummers. Ten steps behind them were Bloodyfist and Murderface, the four looking a bit out of place as the people around them spoke in a different language. The bar looked rather tempting.
Next were Toki and Lucy, then Skwisgaar and Runa. Runa, imagining herself on a runway, took graceful steps, taking the offered arm of her male counterpart. She smiled and waved at everyone. Cameras were going off, keeping her on her toes as not to slip or expose any unwanted flesh. She had to be classy after all.
The last were the vocalists, trying hard not to scowl with little luck on Nathan's part. Instead of linking arms, they just stood by one another, greeting people with not so friendly handshakes. Hopefully the rest of this snooze fest would be more exciting. Nathan stiffened a little as Ivan came to greet Moira with a glass of wine and lead her to an elderly couple, the front man left watching her as she spoke in fluent Russian to the ambassador and their spouse. He ground his teeth together as Moira's wrapped her arm around his. She was just fine standing there while the Russian kept his hands behind him. There was no need for physical contact. Nathan had to turn his head when Ivan moved his arm to wrap it around her waist in a possessive manner. How dare he!
Everyone dispersed into separate directions in groups. The only one alone was Nathan who stayed near the back wall, across from the stage once he greeted enough people, which was probably a good six out of god knew how many. The front man's eyes watched the crowd with disinterest but growled when he saw Moira and Ivan begin to waltz. The two were talking, Moira even smiled up at the blond man making Nathan want to bash his head against a wall, probably his own. She rarely smiled genuinely at the other vocalist, so why this man? She didn't like him… did she?
-Five Minutes Before-
Ivan sighed exasperatedly as a pair of drunken young and attractive females in skimpy dresses tried to woo him. Perhaps wearing his black uniform with gold trimmings wasn't the smartest thing to wear tonight with his devilishly good looks, yet it was required by his boss when he was on duty at some important event. Perhaps Ms. Implosion would loosen up if she thought he meant serious business when in truth he felt ready for a serious relationship. Not wanting to face the drunk women, he stared at his newly polished shoes from underneath his trousers and ignored them. When would Miss Implosion come anyway? Since the moment he saw her, he had wanted the singer to be his. She was beautiful, smart and not like most women who would grovel on her hands and knees when near Explosion. Moira Implosion was an ideal woman and it was obvious Nathan might have felt the same way, but his stubborn pride wouldn't let him have her. Ivan had seen the news and Nathan's reaction when the two were questioned about their sexual relationship. He was an idiot, but gave Ivan all the more reason to pursue the woman. It had nothing to do with the fact her father was famous among Yakov's men. Edgar Implosion was the one all the young troopers employed by Lebedev looked up to since before and after the man's death.
As if on cue, his boss started the announcements. He watched as one by one the bands made their way down the steps until he saw her. His breath hitched as he did. She was stunning. Her pin straight hair was pulled back a little by a miniature hair clip, keeping the rogue strands of hair from covering her face like the giant of a man next to her. Ivan was infatuated with her and most of all, honored to be the one to watch over her. He would gladly die for the petite beauty. The Russian grinned. Moira would eventually be his.
The moment Nathan's back was to her, he made his move. Grabbing a glass of red wine set on top of tray of a nearby waiter, he let his charm take over. Ivan didn't notice Nathan turning around, not that it would have made a difference anyway. Korshunova was to watch Moira at all times. "Hello, Miss Implosion. You look quite lovely tonight." He said in Russian. "For you." Ivan offered her the glass.
Moira smiled as she took it, "Ivan. Please, call me Moira. I feel old if you call me that." Taking a small sip, she hummed in satisfaction, "My, isn't this fine wine." She took another sip for good measure.
"How could you feel old? I do believe I am at least a year older." He said with mocking hurt, unafraid to loosen up a little while on duty. Being around her was refreshing. Moira wasn't the swooning type it seemed since he knew her band mates had ogled him more then a few times. "Are you saying I'm ancient?"
Moira smirked, "Perhaps."
"Ah, Miss Implosion. What an honor to meet you." An old man said as he hobbled over with his wife. Ivan leaned a little and whispered into her ear.
"The Prime Minster, Vladimir Putin and his wife. Lebedev and he work closely under the table." Moira nodded in understanding as the two approached the important figure. She extended her hand out.
"Please, the honor is all mine. To be addressed and in the presence of the Prime Minister and his wife is this humble singer's joy." She curtsied slightly, smiling kindly at the two.
The elderly woman chuckled amusingly, "My, such politeness from one who sings metal. And who may your handsome escort be?" Moira grabbed a hold of his arm with her right one and smiled.
"Ivan Korshunova, Lebedev's right hand man." She glanced up at him and grinned, "And indeed handsome." She tried not to let her surprise show when he held her unprofessionally, yet it wasn't a bad feeling. She relaxed a little.
Putin nodded, "Ah yes, Ivan. Good to see you again. Well, I shall leave the two of you alone. Come my dear."
"What a lovely couple."
Once they disppeared Moira laughed, not noticing the heated glare from Nathan. The Russian did and smirked. "Care to dance with me?" the woman nodded. The vocalist had set her glass down where a waiter would eventually come to take it away. Ivan lead her through the dance, holding her close as she rested her head upon his chest, their hands clasped together on one side while Moira placed her other on his shoulder, his on her narrow waist. Every time the two pasted by the brooding man, Ivan sent him a taunting smile. It was obvious the vocalist of the world famous male band had feelings for the woman in his arms, but his pride would never let him admit it.
"So, Moira… tell me about yourself that I haven't learned within the past two and a half weeks. I do believe we've past the fact I am no longer a random man." He twirled her once then brought her back into his chest.
"Ah…" she smiled, but her eyes held a certain seriousness to them, "Still being a flirt?"
"Maybe. If you promise not to knee me."
------
Toki and Lucy were doing circles in a corner, neither of them sure how to waltz, but they figured if they held each other and rocked themselves in a circle, no one would poke fun. Lucy was the first to see Nathan as he stared intently at her leader. Lifting her head from Toki's shoulder, she stopped him.
"Toki, is its me, or does you tinks Natan looks a bit… angries at Moira?" she cocked her head at the front man's direction.
"Maybes. He no looks happies at Ivans. Does you tinks dey finally sleeps with one anothers and he's jealous?" Lucy blushed furious, but shook her head negatively, "How comes? I sometimes tinks dat Moira and Natan's does more den practice da songs in his room." he resumed in slowly spinning them around, mindful of his feet. Toki didn't think she would like her feet getting squashed by his uncomfortable dress shoes.
"Trusts mes. I dun tinks dat is de case. Maybe it's Ivans. Moira seem to bes comfties wits him more den she is wits Natans. Ow." Toki accidently stepped on her toe.
"Sorries." The male guitarist kissed the top of her head, "I don'ts know. Lets us asks de others laters. I is hungry."
"Dinner line is over dere. Let's go."
------
At the bar, Bloodyfist and Murderface were locked in an epic arm wrestling match, set up by Pickles. It was a standstill and both were already red faced and sweating. Neither would yield to the other. Murderface was slipping off his stool, Bloodyfist grunting as she used her shoes to hook onto the seat for leverage and hopefully reframe from being thrown off balance.
"Dood, how can you be losing to a girl!" Pickles taunted, sitting on a stool behind his fellow band mate with an arm looped around Cherry and his other hand gripping the neck of his beer bottle. "I thought you were a man!" He couldn't help up chuckled as Murderface flipped him off with his free arm. He rested his head on Cherry's bosoms.
Cherry laughed, leaning more into her boyfriend, "I ain't never seen Susie so concentrated. Makes me wish I had my camera." She calmed down a little as Runa tapped her shoulder with a gloved finger, "What is it girl?" The drummer asked as she drank from her bottle.
"Sometings might be wrongs wit Natans." Skwisgaar said before putting a cheese cracker into his mouth.
"Whattdaya mean?" Pickles turned and tried to spot the mentioned band mate. "Nate never liked fancy parties. Just glad the fucking people were asked to leave us alone of a bit, ya know? Come ten and we're fucked. We got like twenty more minutes of peace."
Cherry looked a little concerned, "Aw, I think he's lonely. I'm gonna bring him over, 'ight? Any objections?" Everyone mumbled 'no'. "Okie dokie. I ain't got a clue on how I'm gonna do it, the big guys scares the crap outta me. If I go flying across the dance floor, Pickles honey, make my funeral small." She said jokingly with a grin on her face.
"I comes too, incase you does die." Runa said, handing her untouched champagne glass to Skwisgaar so he could finish it. The two women made their way, excusing themselves and warding off fans to get to the beefy man known as Nathan Explosion, front man extraordinaire. The drummer and guitarist saw him staring at something and tried to follow his line of vision. Cherry's mouth formed an 'o' and Runa's eyebrows shot up into her hair line. "How longs you tinks he's been watchings dem?" Cherry shrugged.
"Dunno. But Ivan and Mo'ra look awfully comfty."
They finally reached him and Cherry gulped as she tapped his shoulder. He glanced down at her, their green eyes locking. "What do you want?" he snapped in a low voice. The drummer lifted a brow.
"Hey, don't give me attitude mister. I'll kick yer ass when ya least expect it." Runa nudged her, "Huh? Oh yes, right." She cleared her throat, "So Nathan. All of us can see yer ain't enjoyin' this. Why don't you come on over and have a few drinks with us?" he said and did nothing. "Or how about ya get something to eat?" Still nothing. "Mo'ra seems to like Ivan ya know." That seemed to snap him out of his daze.
"Sos da great Natan act-ly has a ting for Moiras. Cherry just kiddings bout Moiras." Runa cooed softly for only the three of them to hear, flipping a lock of hair over her slender shoulder, "I tinks it's about times, da tensions was gettings crappies." Both girls got on either side of him and began to pull him along with them. "Now, now, dun gets all quiets and shyly likes. It's all perfectlies naturals." With her heels giving her a boost in her height, she was able to stare directly into his eyes without moving her head up.
Cherry nodded, they were half way to the others, "Uh-huh. We heard all about that Rebecca girl you were with. Mo'ra kinda fits the bill ya know? Bitchy that is, but trusts us, she's a doll deep down. I figure she's only bitchy now cause things would git awkward for us all."
"What the fuck are you talking about?" he knew his let his guard down- badly. And now there would probably no end to the god forsaken teasing ensured from his fellow metal men.
"Don't acts likes you don'ts know!" Runa said, her lips puckered into a pout. "I didn'ts tinks you coulds be sos dense!" Cherry could only agree. They finally reached the others who were still watching the struggling bass players.
"Nathan!" Pickles exclaimed as he handed the man a beer bottle. "How you enjoying yourself?" The black haired man glared at him, taking a large chug of his drink. "Not much, eh?"
"Boring as fucking hell…" he took another glance at the backside of Moira and nearly choked. In the middle of the dance floor, the two had stopped while everyone around continued to dance. From the time it took him to go from one side of the room to another, Ivan and Moira had locked lips. A strange sensation shocked him to the core as he watched helplessly. The world seemed to spin a little.
"Oh shit." Cherry gasped, smacking a hand on her mouth. Lucy and Toki stared at Nathan, his form going rigid. Turning to each other, they nodded in unison, agreeing to a silent statement. Nathan Explosion, after one months and three weeks, had finally developed some feelings for Moira Implosion, and she was now making out with a Russian man meant to watch over her at all times.
Nathan sighed, turning around and slamming his bottle on the table before stalking off to the open balcony where the snow was falling gently, melting instantly as they passed the heaters. Pickles and Skwisgaar looked a bit lost, but their girlfriends quickly filled them in as the bass players continued to find out who had a better arm.
"You sure?" Pickles asked quitely.
"I'm positive hon. Nathan probably in love with Mo'ra, but too damn stubborn ta admit it. If he didn't ya think he'd storm away like that?" Cherry frowned.
"No bodies knows what Natan's be thinkings or why he does da tings he do's. Besides, we not supposed to shows interests in each ud-ders personal lives." Skwisgaar shrugged, leaning back against the bar with Runa in his arm, her back against his chest. He massaged her stomach absent mindedly.
"Dat's so sads den." Lucy whimpered, popping a grape into her mouth. "Dis coulds affect your bands."
-On the Dance Floor-
Moira pushed away from Ivan and glared after her intial shock. "What was that for?" she hissed. She wiped her lips with the back of her hand. She didn't allow the blonde hair soldier a response as she stormed away. She was furious that the man would kiss her infront of everyone out of no where. Things were going smoothly until out of no where, his face inched closers to hers until… BOOM! His lips were upon hers. Finding the short elderly General, she sighed, not sure of what to say but preferred his company over Ivan's at the moment.
"Moira Implosion?" the man said once she stood by him but unable to speak. He straightened up a little bit more. A pop was heard from his back as he broadened his chest. He held a hand out for her to shake. "I'm General Crozier. I was assigned to assist you during your concert by reinforcing the security."
She stared at him for a moment, her head tilting slightly, "Oh." There was a small pause. "General… have I… met you before? You seem awfully familiar." Her brows furrowed as she desperately tried to remember where she knew the man. Maybe a photograph?
Crozier could have fainted. There was no way she could remember him, she was just a baby the last time there were beside one another. Perhaps Edgar had shown her pictures? He didn't want to go down that dusty road. Not with Mr. Selatcia having ordered him to kill her. He needed a way to keep her safe. There was absolutely no way he would hurt her.
"I get that a lot." He said, "I can't recall a time we've met in person." It hurt him, but he had to keep her at some distance.
She looked a bit sad, "Oh… But it's nice to know you are willing to give us support. For Dethklok, huh?" It was always Dethklok.
Crozier shook his head, "No, I'm here to see that you and your band are kept safe. Dethklok has it's own army, but Cancerous is still new. I'm not a fan of them, but I admit to enjoying hearing some of your… gentler songs." Moira smiled in appreciation. Over the next few minutes, the two talked about simple things such as the nice whether of American compared to Russia at this time and the concert. Moira was just relaxing until she heard his voice.
"Moira!" Ivan said, "Can I speak with you?" Noticing the uniform clad General, he pursed his lips but nodded at him in acknowledgement. "In private please?" Moira gave the General a look of apology as she was escorted to a lone table. Ivan sat her down and sighed. "I was out of line. I apologize."
The woman scoffed, "I'm not some easy lay. Don't think I'm stupid, because I am nothing like Dethklok. No one needs to tell me you've been with a lot of women but your flirtatious confidence." She gave him a hard glare, keeping her hands folded on her lap. Ivan gulped, actually afaid he had screwed things up, but he couldn't help with what he did. She was just too damn gorgeous."I will not be treated like the other women you have been with. I'm going to find Nathan." She was about to get up, but Ivan grabbed her shoulder.
"Please, Miss Implosion. My deepest and scenery apologies. It won't happen again. Though… if you don't want me to keep watching over you, you may ask Lebedev. I never intended to make you uncomfortable, but you're beauty makes me forget I have a duty to protect you above anything else." With that, he got up and helped her find the man she would have rather been with the whole time instead.
-At the bar-
"I lostch to a girl." Murderface said gloomily. Bloodyfist just snickered, "Aren't I a man?" The two had been left alone as everyone else went to go dance, the music changed from old classical to more a dance kind as the hours went on. Runa and Skwisgaar had been separated, talking to a group of reporters. It was amusing to see the tall woman actually look small compared to the taller men around her. Skwisgaar looked peeved at the people surrounding him as she gave him a look that cried for help.
Pickles and Cherry, slightly drunk at this point, ignored the questions as they stumbled around in what they thought were dance moves. It was amusing, but it was obvious the two were having a blast as their laughter echoed around. Toki and Lucy were nowhere to be found, probably whisked away by Ofdensen since Lucy had a small anxiety problem when she got crowded and was asked to answer questions that she most likely didn't understand. Poor thing.
Nathan was still out in the balcony, blocked off by a line of klokateers allowed into the house. Lucky for him, the reporters and fans couldn't get near him without invoking the wrath of his guards. Tonight there wasn't supposed to be bloodshed. The only ones allowed beyond their protective circle were Dethklok, Cancerous, Ofdensen and Yakov. No one else since Nathan had told them to keep Ivan away.
"I might have just gotten lucky." Bloodyfist said, finishing off her martini. Yakov came with a few people who had pen and paper out. "Crapsicles. Looks like we got people to get out of our hair." Murderface grumbled.
"Mr. Murderface, how long have you played bass guitar?" and so the headaches began.
"Another beer pleash!"
-Outside-
Moira sighed in relief as she made it past the klokateers. Ivan wasn't so fortunate. Nathan was watching the city alone, not caring that outside was only fifteen degrees. The woman shivered a little. The heating lamps were turned down. Joining Nathan at the marble rail, she crossed her arms and leaned forward.
"Brutal out here, isn't it?" she said. "At least there's no wind." He didn't do anything That worried her a little. "What's up?" She rubbed her arms to warm them up. The air was so chilly.
She waited a while for him to answer her. Just when she was about to give up, he sighed. "I don't know. The last few days have been… really fucking strange for me. Shit. I can't even concentrate during practice." Gold met emerald.
"Ack!" Moira jumped at the warmth that enveloped her. Nathan had gave her his blazer. "Uh… thank you?" She blushed and looked away, her heart pounding. Nathan was being… nice to her? She liked it.
"I don't want you getting sick just yet. You better be at the top of your game, you little shit." He smirked at her. Moira understood he only meant to tease her in his own fashion through insults. "If I'm going to take you down. Fuck, it's gotta be worth it."
She wrapped the jacket around her, snuggling into the warmth that smelled like Nathan. It was relaxing in a strange way. Closing her eyes, she laughed a little. "I could say the same for you. Don't be a pussy cunt face. The world needs to see you as the ass you really are. No talent, just luck." The ice around them began to break, although both were becoming popsicles as time wore on.
The two remained in silence and watched the snow fall. Moira shyly leaned into Nathan's side, stealing more of his warmth, but squeaked when he ushered her inbetween his arms. This way, his body blocked the snow and sheltered most of her body in warmth as he crossed his arms on the rail and slightly leaning over her until the back of her head touched his shoulder. It was a bit awkward in the beginning, but the two eventually enjoyed the close contact since no one was around.
"Ivan's an ass, you know?" Moira said without really paying attention, "Yeah, we're not strangers anymore, but shit. He has no right to fucking kiss me." She growled at that.
Nathan felt sudden relief. "What, you don't like him?"
She shook her head and leaned back more into the giant man, "Sure, he's good looking, but I don't like overly cocky men. I learned my lesson about men like him. I want someone who won't boast about his awesomeness." She shrugged, "In truth, it doesn't take much to impress me. The guy just needs to be honest with himself and me, I guess." A lazy grin spread across her face as she fought back a yawn but failed, "Hmm… you're really warm Nathan. I could stay like this for a while."
Nathan snickered a little, "Yeah, no kidding." He was just happy that nothing was going on between her and the blond body guard. Seeing her with another man had made him realize something. "Moira I…"
"Miss Implosion?" A klokateer said as he stood a few feet behind the duo. Moira became startled and jumped out of Nathan's arm, a bit embarrassed she even allowed it to last that long. She had just been so comfortable though. "Mr. Lebedev requires you at the stage." In the background, they could hear the disguisable sound of the rest of her band finishing an instrumental piece. The classical and metal like twist was sending the crowd, now dominated by a more younger group, into a roar of cheers. In this piece, Cherry's part wasn't big, and a good thing to as the woman wobbled in her seat. Runa looked so pretty as she stood to the far left of the stage, her violin resting below her head. Lucy played away on her keyboard as Bloodyfist tried not do some unlady like move in her dress. A man with a guitar stood with the sheet music in front of him. Normally Moira would assume drums and Cherry would play the guitar that danced around the bass.
Moira nodded as she followed the klokateer, Nathan behind her. Walking past Ivan, she didn't spare him a glance. The man had seen the two lead vocalists together and it unnerved him when Nathan gave him a cocky grin. Taking the stage as they finished, all but Lucy left. Moira nodded and the young girl changed the settings so she played the piano. The song she was going to sing was one of Yakov's favorites she was told. Since it turned out that he was once her father's employer, she felt that she couldn't deny him and decided to sing the very non-metal song. It was actually very nice, in a weird twisted kind of way. Reminded her of the musical Chicago or something. She smiled, remembering what Crozier had said about liking the gentler pieces.
Be silent, be still
Don't make me chase you
I'll warn you, I will
Just to embrace you
I'll get me my fill
So be silent, be still
Her gaze shifted between Ivan and Nathan who both stood to the back. In the center, everyone was dancing again. Toki looked a bit bummed that he couldn't, not with Lucy playing for Moira, but he still enjoyed himself as he talked to Murderface and Bloodyfist. Cherry and Pickles sobered up a little, holding each other close as they danced. Skwisgaar twirled Runa, then wrapped his arm around her waist again as he lead them around and around. He didn't even give the little old woman beside him a glance. Moira finally locked her gaze with Nathan. He felt his heart skip a beat at her intense gaze. What was this feeling? The woman didn't know as she couldn't look away from his piercing gaze. Her words floated around the room. Ofdensen was standing on the stairs, looking between the two vocalists. Realizing what was going on, he sighed. Things just got more complicated since he knew Ivan had strong feelings for her. His phone vibrated in his chest pocket. Putting on the blue tooth, he waited for the person on the other line to answer. All the breath he had left his body.
Be hopeful, be brave
I only want you more
When you misbehave
I know I've said that before
It's your touch I crave
So be silent, be still
You, I adore
Must you ignore
It doesn't matter what you say anymore
This is our night
Why must we fight?
Don't close the door
Be careful, my dear
If you're not nice
I'll give you reason to fear
Better think twice
Don't pretend you don't hear
Just be silent, be still
Moira simply couldn't look away from Nathan no matter how hard she tried. Her heart quickened as she thought back to their 'cuddly' moment outside. It felt so nice and it scared her. There was no way she could be developing feelings for him, could it? She nearly stumbled at her words. Did Nathan feel the same way?
Oh, You, I adore
Must you ignore
It doesn't matter what you say anymore
This is our night
Why must we fight?
Don't close the door
Now listen to me
I'd rather tie you up
Than let you go free
You must be kind, my dear
I think you'll agree
These are the words you've sung to me
So there's no hope you see
For still inside I will never be
"Hello, Charles. I'm sure you're just as worried about your old buddy like those whores. Did you honestly think going to Russia would keep you safe? I know you've been there since Andrew went missing, but there's no fun in getting them now." The voice laughed, "No, I want the world to see them die. Seven days, Charlie boy. And they're mine." The line went dead. Just then, a klokateer rushed to him, holding a package. The song ended, and everyone cheered.
"Sir, this was found addressed to Cancerous outside their guest house." The package was opened. "Forgive me. We needed to check if there was a bomb." Charles nodded his head. Opening the cardboard himself and inside was a video along with pictures. All of them were of a bloodied and beaten Munkittrick. Attached to one was a small note. To Charles it made no sense, but still left a shiver run down his spine. The irony was that the words actually the lyrics to one of Cancerous' unfinished pieces.
"I know
The arrogant pride that poisons the truth you hear
I know
The bigoted tongue that tears away all your fear
Pontificate you faded star
Go on and show me who you really are
You can lie to the papers
You can hide from the press
You can fake it on stage
You can crawl from your cage
You can search and destroy
You can kill and depend on it
I know your tainted flesh
I know your filthy soul
I know each trick you played
Whore you laid
Dream you stole
I know the bed in the room in the wall
In the house where you got what you wanted and ruined it all
I know the secrets that you keep
I know where you sleep
I know
The illness behind the image you create
I know
The tedious need to turn all you love into hate
You poor pathetic paranoid
Is it just me or do you secretly enjoy it?"
I'm coming for you all…
- J.V.W
So there you have it. Sorry if it's a bit crappy and not very well structured, but my mind is goop and I didn't want to keep you all waiting for a long time. If need be, I'll fix it some other time and let you all know if it had a major face lift. I think this fic will end under 30 chapters. I don't see how I can keep this one going without really pissing you all and myself off, lol. I really got to finish my Inu Yasha fics... damn.
Dragonz: Thank you, I need all the luck I can get! Macy's is my only hope of sanity because people ALWAYS go there. I can't stand to work alone (-hence why I quit my last job-) Glad you liked the last chapter.
Wild Okapi: OMG!! A new user(I can't say face, now can I?)! Thank you so much! You don't have to review every single chapter, but it helps me when someone gives me feed back, just so I know whether or not you, the reader, like how the story is flowing. Or something like that. Mucho Gracias for the compliment! I don't think I'm great, but thank you. Who is you fav Cancerous character? :D Maybe you can be the tie breaker.
YouSweet: XD Lol! Fun-sized! My friend calls me that every now and then, which sucks. He's over a foot taller then me (6'6" last time I saw him which was graduation). Now I miss him... I love that guy to death X3 Suspense is power, buwhahahaha!
Insomiastalker: OMFG! Another new user! It's not too much to ask me to update again, I'd gladly do it as soon as I can. I won't abandon this fic! As long as you don't tell me to "hurry the fuck up and update" like some asshole while I was writing my Inu APL fic. That's just rude. Thank you for leaving a review! And like Wild Okapi, who is your fav Cancerous character?
Gremlin: I don't know, we'll just have to wait and see what Crozier will do now that Selatcia has ordered him to kill Moira. Dun, dun, dun!! Hopefully this chapter gave you a clue.
Angela: Is it amazing? I don't see the point of making Tribunal chapters/sections drag on and on. In the show they don't take very long, so I figured I'd make it short but still informative.
Again, thank you all! Next Chapter is a bit uh... steamy? Triple action, possibly quadruple! No not three-some mind you! I haven't figured out the fourth pair and whether or not I want it to happen... hmm. I still have a bit to think about it before my next "deadline" sometime between Monday or Tuesday. Having an iPhone is amazing. I hearts the 'note' button, it's jammed full of stuff for the next chapter.
Smexy Sexy Scences Starring:
PicklesxCherry
SkwisgaarxRuna
TokixLucy (Yes, I went there...)
Poll: Aside from who is your favorite character, which couple do you like the best?
Results next chapter (if anyone participates!)