Right after Climax Control...
The scene opens up in the backstage area of the Aquarius Casino & Resort in Laughlin, Nevada, where the last edition of Climax Control prior to Into the Void has just come to an end. Just minutes ago, SCW Heavyweight Champion Nick Jones and Jordan Williams signed contracts for their title match for the main event of Into the Void, with SCW Co-Owner Christian Underwood coming out to announce the assignment of special guest referee Bo Dreamwolf and ringside enforcer Rage. The scene is currently that of an empty locker room backstage, but that does not seem likely to last very loud as the sounds of a screaming voice and stomping footsteps can be heard coming closer and closer. After a few moments, the door to the locker room opens up and in bursts Nick Jones. As soon as Nick enters the room, he throws his title belt down onto a table, before punting a small wooden stool across the room and then picking up a steel folding chair and heaving it straight into a large mirror, causing it to shatter. Just as this happens, the entirety of Nick's entourage; Diana, Big B, Tony, Jimmy and Max, all come rushing in after Nick in an attempt to calm him down. However, what they're saying cannot even be heard over the crashing furniture and Nick's screams.
Nick: THIS IS ABSOLUTE BULLSHIT!!! I AM SICK AND TIRED OF THIS CRAP! THESE PIECES OF SHIT KNOW THEY CAN'T BEAT ME!! THEY KNOW NOBODY ELSE AROUND HERE CAN BEAT ME!! SO NOW THEY'RE GOING TO TRY TO ROB ME OF MY BELT?!? THEY CAN ROT IN HELL, THIS BELT IS MINE AND THEY'LL HAVE TO PRY IT OUT OF MY COLD DEAD HANDS!!!
Nick then walks over and grabs a large, mostly whole chunk of the broken mirror, lifts it up and smashes it against the concrete wall, causing it to shatter into tiny little pieces.
Nick: That nobody loser sideshow freak of a co-owner can't get past his petty jealousy! I'm infinitely more talented than that heap of crap could ever dream of being, and he can't handle it!! So now day after day, week after week and month after month he tries time and again to try to screw me over. Only problem is that dipshit has finally figured out that try as he might to take MY title from me, it AIN'T.. FREAKIN'.. HAPPENING! So now he's going to try to rig a match that he thinks I can't possibly win? Put in a referee who won't give me the victory I'm sure to deserve?!? Put in an enforcer who's going to try to screw me over every chance he gets because he still can't handle the fact that I beat his ass square in the middle of this ring?!? This entire company is a damn joke!! They are all nothing compared to me and they damn well know it, so now they realize they all have to team up to have a chance in hell to beat me. It's all of SCW verses Nick Jones and you know what? They're about to find out, that all of these sorry ass losers combined still won't be enough!
Diana: Exactly honey, that's why you just need try to calm down. They're just trying to upset you is all. But they know the same thing you know, that it still isn't going to be enough to make a difference.
Nick: Of course it won't, but it's still BULLSHIT! Nobody else in this company has had to deal with the shit that son of a bitch Christian has put me through. These clowns want to sit here and question how good I am? Well I'm the only one around here who has every match he's in booked with the specific goal of making sure he loses and I still CAN'T BE BEAT.
With that, Nick stomps back across the room and picks up his title belt.
Nick: THIS RIGHT HERE IS MINE!!! It's been mine for a long ass time, and it ain't changing any damn time soon! It's mine in spite of every damn attempt by that loser to rob me of it and just like all of those past attempts, this one will fail too. That son of a bitch can keep on trying, but nothing is going to change that!
Tony: Dat's all dat matta's, boss. You's gots dese clowns numba's, and dat ain't gonna change no time soon neitha'. Besides, if dat punk Rage gets outta line, me's and B here will put him in his place, and not even dat Bo fool can do anyt'ing to cost ya da match once you knock dat freakin' Jordan out cold.
Nick: You sure as hell have got that right, Tony. But that's not even the damn point. The point is I'm the best this company has, I've proven it time and again, and all we here is one person after another run their damn mouths about how good they are and how they'll be the big, bad impressive one to beat me. Yet time and again, they all fail. They all fail because not one damn one of them are anywhere close to good enough to beat me. So what is the response? The response is that now with each new challenger, the odds are being stacked further and further in their favor. By all accounts I've just essentially been put into a 3-on-1 handicap match, while for the next two weeks that stupid washed-up old never was is going to be talking about how great he is and how he'll win. And you know what? In the end, he's still not going to win, but it's not going to be just because I beat him, it's going to because I put him AND his two owner-sanctioned personal helpers in their places all by myself. Of course, instead of getting credit for overcoming another attempt to screw me over, all we'll hear about is some bullshit story about how impressive Jordan was, and how close of a match it was because of some bullshit fast count that stupid inbred's little buddy will surely try to pull on me, and how that bitter loser will try to jump me the first chance he gets. And then it will just be some other bullshit match I'll get booked in for my next defense, that will probably have me facing five different opponents, as the newest attempt to take my title from me. Well I'm sick and f'n tired of it, and it's about time I respond with more than what I have been. I'm done being the bigger man, and just going ahead and earning one victory after another, fair and square in spite of the endless attempted screwjobs. It's about time all of these bastards learn what happens when you screw with the very best.
Jimmy: There you go, Nicky... that's the right attitude, baby.
Nick turns around and simply glares at Jimmy, clearly looking rather displeased with him.
Nick: Oh don't even start me with you useless pile of crap. I had you sit there and read through that entire damn contract, and the thing was SIGNED before that useless moron of a co-owner said a damn word, and what the hell did you do about it? Not a damn thing!
Jimmy: Nicky, baby, it's not my fault... the contract was signed and everything in it is still going to be as is. But baby, they don't specify who the referee for the match is going to be in the contract, how should I have known he was going to pull that?
Nick: You should have known because contracts is the one damn thing I pay you to take care of!! I mean, that would be like if Max went and lost all of my money!
Max: OH GAWD!
Nick: Oh shutup. The truth is, it's all a load of crap, but in the end all that jackass Christian has done is essentially admitted to the world that he knows that I'm better than anything else this has to offer. I'm too talented to be beaten by that nobody Jordan, or any of the other losers SCW has to challenge me, and so he has to pull out every trick in the book that he can in order to try to cost me a match. What I want to know is, where the hell is that limey son of a bitch who apparently went along with this horse shit match?
Big B: I saw him leaving just as soon as the show ended, cuz.
Nick: You have got to be kidding me. That son of a bitch know what he pulled on me, and now he's running scared. Well I'm sure as hell not going to let this go unanswered for, so he sure as hell have a damn good reason to explain this crap.
Diana: Where could he have gone?
Nick: Well the show just ended, he couldn't have gotten very far.
Nick puts his head down for a moment as he seems to be thinking, then he seems to suddenly come to a realization as his eyes widen and his head snaps up, looking around to the rest of those in the room with him.
Nick: I bet I know just where that son of a bitch is. Come on, let's go.
With that, Nick turns and marches out of the room in a rather hurry, with the rest of the members of the entourage in tow as the scene fades.
<hr width=50%>
Later that night...
The scene fades in to a small local dive bar somewhere in Nevada. Seated on a stool at the bar with a beer in front of him is none other than SCW Co-Owner "Hot Stuff" Mark Ward. Mark slowly and calmly drinks at his beer as he watches a TV hanging above the bar. At that point the door to the bar swings open and in walks Nick Jones, along with all of the members of his entourage, who immediately spots Mark and makes an immediate bee-line for him. The rest of the group stops a couple of feet short of Mark, as Nick walks right next to Mark and stares at him for a moment. Mark doesn't even react, as his eyes never even leave the television until Nick starts to speak.
Nick: Well looky what I found.
Upon hearing that, Mark turns his head and looks at Nick before letting out a sigh. He then responds with a heavily sarcastic tone.
HS: Oh goodie, it's you.
Nick: What? You really thought I wasn't going to be able to find you here? You can't possibly be that stupid. Not even B here is THAT stupid.
Big B: Yeah!
B suddenly stops to think over that last exchange for a moment, when he suddenly seems to realize that last comment may have been meant as an insult.
Big B: Hey! Wait a second...
Both Nick and Mark ignore him as they continue to talk to one another.
HS: Of course not, I know better than that, yank. That should tell you I wasn't exactly trying to hide from you.
Nick: Well maybe you should have been. What the hell was with that horse shit?
HS: Why don't take a deep breath, sit down and have a drink and we'll talk about it?
Hot Stuff flags down the bartender as Nick sits in one of the stools. The bartender walks over and Mark points him in Nick's direction, who proceeds to order for himself and the rest of his entourage.
Nick: Get us a round of whatever this guy's having... he's paying.
Mark shoots a look over to Nick based on his last comment.
HS: Oh, am I now?
Nick: It's the least you could do. Figure it insuranance, as long as you're paying for it I'll promise not to break the bottle over your head when I'm done.
HS: Such a considerate guy.
Nick: I do what I can.
With that, Mark nods over to the bartender, acknowledging that he'll pick up the tab for the round as the bartender goes to fetch the drinks. Nick then turns on the stool so he's looking directly at Mark, who doesn't turn put only peers out of the corner of his eye at Nick.
Nick: So, what have you got to say?
HS: First, the drinks.
Nick: I'm starting to regret that promise of not hitting you with the bottle already.
HS: Nah, cause then I would just have to kick your ass in front of your whole little crew there.
Nick seems less than amused by this comment, just glaring at Mark who chuckles at his own comment.
HS: Oh, lighten up, yank.
Nick: What can I say, but it seems like something may have happened recently that has put me into a bit of a bad mood. Now I can't imagine what that could have been, could you?
Mark doesn't even respond as the bartender walks back with his arms filled with six beers. As he puts them down on the bar, Mark tosses the bartender some cash as Nick starts to pass beers back towards the entourage members. They all seem to happily take them aside from Max, who looks at the bottle rather peculiarly before taking a small sip which elicits a rather disgusted look upon his face. Nick doesn't acknowledge any of this as he grabs his own beer and takes a drink before turning back to Mark. At this point, Mark now turns in his chair towards Nick.
HS: So what the hell is up your ass?
Nick: Like you don't know, it's the same reason you went running out of that arena the second the show was over.
HS: I already told you, I wasn't running. I'm here, aren't I?
Nick: Whatever, you know what the problem is.
HS: No, I really don't. All I know is Christian is happy, the match is going to get more coverage than any in SCW history, and you're still going to win.
Nick: Of course I'm going to win, but that's not the damn point. Why the hell do I have to go through more shit than anyone else in this company to win my matches?
HS: You don't get it, what makes this so great is this isn't nearly as bad the rest of these clowns think. All of the guys in the back who want to see you lose, and let's be honest, that's just about all of them these days, are thrilled with it, Christian thinks he's teaching you a lesson, and Jordan has got to be thinking he's already got this one in the bag. But really, none of that is true. I wasn't worried about it because I figured you were the one person around here smart enough to figure that out the same way I did.
Nick: Please tell me how making two guys who absolutely hate me as the special guest referee and ring enforcer is not a blatant attempt to screw me over as much as possible?
HS: What do you really think is going to happen? Rage is just going to be standing outside of the ring, you don't need to worry about him. Let's not forget, your boys are still allowed at ringside and so if he gets out of line, they'll be sure to put him back in his place.
Nick: I wish I was as confident in that as you are. Let's not forget, the last match I had saw these two morons get into a fight outside of the ring and eventually knock me out while one of my loser partners got pinned. These clowns are more of a hinderance than a help.
Tony: Listen boss, don't put dat one on me. I ain't do nothin' wrong, it was all dat idiot cousin of yers.
Big B: None of that would have happened if you hadn't done what you were doing!
Nick spins around for a moment and shoots an annoyed look at both Tony and Big B.
Nick: Both of you just shutup.
Nick then turns his attention back to Mark.
Nick: See what I'm saying?
HS: It'll be fine, all they need to do is keep their eyes on punk you already made short work of once before. Besides, as much as he may hate you, I don't think he's exactly Jordan's biggest fan either. Don't think there isn't a part of Rage that more than anything, wants himself another title shot, and wants it to be against you.
Nick: Why the hell would he want that? We all know he stands a hell of a lot better chance of beating Jordan than he ever does me. He already tried and failed once there.
HS: Well regardless, he's made it pretty clear that despite what happened last time, he thinks he can beat you, and perhaps more importantly he WANTS to beat YOU.
Nick: Alright fine, but what's your story about this whole special guest referee situation? That loser Bo has been trained to hate me from day one thanks to that stupid inbred pal of yours. Then after he pull his little stunt on me at the hotel and then stole MY win, I wish sure to put him in his place, and ever since he's been a whiny little baby about the whole thing. If my shoulders ever even grace the mat he's going to be counting as fast as humanly possible.
HS: Well then I guess you just better not let those shoulders touch the mat.
Mark grins widely after his comment, but Nick is far from amused by it.
HS: Seriously though, there's a reason why Bo is the one who got made into a referee. For starters, just like Rage he has plenty of reasons not to be Jordan's biggest fan, and want to make sure that when he does get his shot, it's at you. I mean, sure he would probably enjoy seeing you lose, because there's no doubt he has far more reasons to hate you than Jordan, but that doesn't mean he's going to screw you out of it. For starters, despite the very unique relationship you and Austin have had over the years, it's not like he's ever done anything to try to cost you a match. He's got too much respect for this business to do something like that. If he wanted you to lose a match that badly, he'd be in there against you to do it himself.
Nick: Yeah right, like that dumb hick would stand a chance.
HS: I can tell you first hand, he's a lot more trouble than you'd ever guess. But that's not the point, the point is he's not going to sit there and try to convince Bo to screw you over. Then there's Bo, and the truth is, he's a good kid and he's not going to be willing to hurt his reputation, devalue the title or discredit a possible win for Jordan by handing him an unearned victory. Don't get me wrong, if you or one of your lackeys gets out of line he'll be more than thrilled to take the opportunity to put you in your place, but if you go in there and earn that win...
Nick: If?
HS: You know what I mean... WHEN you go in there and earn that win, he's still going to give it to you. Just like I said with Rage, he'd much rather let you walk away with the victory and set himself up as the man to take away your title than hurt this company, this title and himself with some petty act because of his grudge with you. Trust me, they'd both love nothing more to see you lose, but they also both know it won't mean anything unless it happens legitimately.
Nick: Ok, so what's the bottom line then? That these guys MIGHT not try to screw me over? And that suddenly makes it all ok that as the SCW Heavyweight Champion, instead of being lauded as it's greatest performer, I'm attempting to be screwed over by those same people who I'm making richer than they could ever possibly imagine?
HS: No, what makes it all ok is that in the end, none of that crap is going to matter and it's going to make me AND you richer than we could imagine.
Nick: And how exactly is that?
HS: Because when this match is over, and you're still the champion, there will be nothing that can ever touch your legend. It will be proven that no matter who the opponent is, what that match is, or what BOTH of the owners try to do to your match, you cannot be beaten.
With that said, for the first time all night, a smile starts to creep across Nick's face.
Nick: Well I like the sound of that.
HS: Think about it yank, now as far as the SCW universe is concerned, I'm not even on your side. When you win this one, the entire company and fanbase will officially be out of excuses.
Nick nods along assuredly for a few as he seems to smile just a bit more. That is, until he sudden stops both actions and looks back to Mark rather suspiciously.
Nick: You know, that all sounds like a great story, but how the hell do I know that you're really not trying to help out that old buddy Jordan of yours?
HS: Need I remind you that the last time Jordan and I stepped into the ring together, it was as opponents?
Nick: Yeah, but it sure sounds like you two have buried your differences a bit then. Besides, you and I both know your beef was never with Jordan, it was with that putz Spike.
HS: Regardless, what possible motivation would I have to screw you out of the title in favor of Jordan? If that happens, there's not a whole lot of question about how that will effect our friendship and from a business standpoint, why would I want my top guy to be someone the rest of the company will question his victory for as long as he holds that title over the guy who will be seen as having fought against all the odds and still reign on as champion?
After a few moments of thinking it over, Nick slams back the rest of his beer before putting the bottle back down on the bar. Nick gets up from his stool and leans in closer to Mark for a moment, glaring at him.
Nick: You sure as hell better be right about all of this. If it turns out I get screwed over by those two bitter jackasses or it turns out you were really trying to help that little co-owner buddy of yours screw me out of MY title, then just know that me and you will have some business to sort out.
HS: Well all I can tell you is I'm not worried about that becoming an issue.
Nick: Good.
Nick then backs off from Mark before flagging down the bartender. As he walks over, Nick immediately places an order, calling it out loudly enough for the entire bar to here.
Nick: A round of your finest for the entire place! And it's all on our good buddy Mark here.
With that last comment, Mark turns and shoots a rather displeased look in Nick's direction, as Nick once again has a smile grow across his face.
HS: What the hell was that all about?
Nick: While you may have sold me on this situation for now, that's still a dick move you pulled with this match. Besides, if you're right about all of this, than this shouldn't be a concern, because after Into the Void we'll both be richer than ever. So what have you got to complain about?
Mark goes to respond but seems unable to come up with a retaliation to Nick's last point. Seeing that, Nick laughs to himself and turns and walks off, followed by the members of his entourage. As Nick walks off, the bartender is lining up glasses and starts pouring the round of drinks, as Mark watches on rather annoyed and mumbles to himself.
HS: Even when he's the one who's got a reason to be pissed at me, somehow that damn yank still always find ways to make ME being the one to regret that we're friends.
Mark then snags one of the glasses the bartender has poured from off of the bar and quickly drinks the entire thing back, before slamming the glass back down onto the bar as the scene fades.
<hr width=50%>
One day later...
The scene opens up back outside of the Los Angeles home of SCW Heavyweight Champion Nick Jones. Moments, later the scene cuts to a shot of inside of the living room of the home, where Nick is currently seated with his girlfriend Diana, and all of his entourage members; Big B, Tony, Jimmy and Max. The five seem to just finish up watching some TV as just as it wraps up, Nick grabs the remote and turns it off, before settling back into his seat on the couch. After a few moments of silence, Big B decides to make some small talk.
Big B: So... what are our plans for this weekend?
Nick: OUR plans? WE don't have any plans at all. I have my own plans.
Big B: Well what are you doing?
Nick: I'm going down to Miami.
Big B: Miami? What for?
Nick: Apparently they're having some sort of wrestling convention thing or something down there. The publishers of my autobiography wanted me down there to start promoting the book.
Jimmy: Nicky, baby, what are you talking about? I haven't heard anything about this.
Nick: I'm well aware of that, that would be because they called me directly and decided not to tell you.
Jimmy: What are you talking about? Why not?
Nick: Because you're an idiot, that's why.
Big B: Well we know now. So when are we heading down there?
Nick: Ok, I thought I had already made this pretty clear. WE aren't... none of you idiots are invited along.
As those comments are made, both Big B and Jimmy seem to be taken back by it, as well as both Tony and Max who were not even involved in the conversation.
Tony: Why ain't we goin'?
Nick: Why? Oh, I don't know, maybe because you and my idiot cousin laid me out during my last match, and Jimmy let me booked in this bullshit match after I had him read through the entire damn contract.
Max: Well what did I do?
Nick: You? Nothing, but you hate traveling. Did you really want to fly down to Miami and then have to fly back a day later?
Max: I guess not.
Nick: Then there you go.
Big B: Are you trying to make this some sort of romantic weekend between you and Diana?
Diana: Actually, I'm not going either.
Big B: He didn't even invite you?!?
Diana: Of course he did, you big goof, but I can't go this weekend. It's my mother's birthday this weekend, so I'm going back home to see my family.
Nick: Yeah, it's a real shame too, because I was going to head back with her for her mom's birthday party, but the publisher's were really getting on my case about it when I was trying to get out of it.
Diana: That really does suck.
Nick: I'm with you babe, but there's all sort of contract stuff and money involved, so unfortunately I couldn't really do anything about it. I'm sure your family will understand, and just send my birthday wishes to your mom for me.
Diana: That actually reminds me, I need to go call my mom about for something this weekend. I'll be right back.
Diana then gets up off of the couch and heads out a door leading off into another room. After a few moments of silence, Big B then decides to chime in.
Big B: Wow, they're really pushing you that hard to go?
Nick pauses for a moment before responding, not seeming to want to talk any more about the topic, before stuttering out a half-hearted answer.
Nick: Um... yeah, sure... why not.
Jimmy: Nicky, baby, that's not right. There's nothing in your contract with them forcing you to go to this. I'm going to call them right now and get this all sorted out.
Jimmy gets up from his seat on the couch and goes to pull out his cell phone from his pocket, but Nick immediately stands up and puts his hand onto Jimmy's chest, stopping him from going anywhere.
Nick: Don't do that.
Jimmy: What, why not? Don't worry about it, I got this, baby.
Nick: No, you don't. Now sit your ass back down.
Jimmy obliges his boss as he sits back down on the couch. Nick then returns to his couch as he leans in towards his entourage and starts to talk more quietly, clearly trying to make sure Diana doesn't overhear.
Nick: Listen, here's the deal, they made it pretty clear that they'd appreciate it if I went, but if I couldn't make it is was no problem.
Big B: But you said...
Nick: I know what I said dumbass. I just said that for Diana's sake. As soon as this came up I jumped at the opportunity.
Tony: But boss, I thought yous hated dese type of t'ings, 'cause of all da stupid fans yous gots ta deal wit.
Nick: Well... yeah.
Tony: Den why you's going?
Nick: Because it's still better than the alternative. Diana's family hates me and I hate every last one of them. Any excuse to get out of seeing them is a good one and if that means going to Miami and dealing with signing so autographs for a bunch of idiots and plugging a book than so be it.
Big B: Why don't you just tell her you don't want to go?
Nick: Are you kidding me? Do you not know her at all after all of these years? Should would lose her shit if I told her I wasn't going because I didn't want to. I used to make up bullshit stories, but she started catching on to that, so now I just need to make sure I've got a good enough legit reason to give her and she's happy and oblivious. Which also means, not one single damn one of you better repeat a word of this ever again. Got it?
Max: Oh gawd, I'm horrible at keeping secrets!
Nick: If you don't keep this one, I'll fire your ass.
Max: Well then, I think I'll manage.
Nick: Good answer.
At that moment, the door opens back up and Diana walks back into the room as she's putting her cell phone away. She plops back down onto the couch right next to Nick and starts to talk to him.
Diana: I told my parents you can't make it this weekend and they seem disappointed.
Nick: Oh, I'm sure there they are.
Nick rolls his eyes as he makes this comment, but Diana contniues to talk, oblivious to Nick's sarcasm.
Diana: Isn't there any way you can get out of this? Jimmy, can't you talk to the publishers?
Everyone turns to Jimmy, who immediately looks nervous and is left speechless for a moment. He then notices Nick glaring at him and stumbles out a few words to a quick answer.
Jimmy: Nope, sorry baby, in the contract... nothing I can do.
Diana: Oh, that sucks.
Nick: Yeah, I'm really sorry about this babe. But you know Jimmy, always screwing up those contracts he has me sign.
Jimmy looks offended by this comment and seems as though he's about to say something, but immediately stops before saying word as he notices a dirty glare coming from Nick just as Nick notices Jimmy about to speak. Nick then turns his attention back to Diana.
Nick: You know I'd much rather spend time with you and your family at some stupid fan convention. But that's business for you.
Diana: Yeah, I hear you. It's tough, but I understand.
Nick: Thanks babe, I appreciate you being so understanding. I better go run and start packing. As for the rest of you, while I'm gone Diana here is your boss. Got it?
Nick gets nothing but silent nods from the entire group of the entourage as he leans in and gives Diana a quick kiss on the forehead before heading out into the entry foyer and heading straight upstairs to go pack as the scene fades.
<hr width=50%>
A few days later...
The scene opens back up inside of a convention center in Miami, Florida, where a wrestling convention is being held. Filled throughout the center is a number of booths, containing a combination of independent companies promoting their shows, wrestling trainers trying to sign up new students, and of course autograph tables with a number of wrestling stars both big and small, and past and present. Our focus quickly shifts to one such table which is of course occupied by none other than SCW's Heavyweight Champion, Nick Jones. Nick's table is setup with huge promotional posters hyping his up-coming autobiography, while he sits there and seems to be rather uninterestedly and mindlessly signing one item after another handed to him by fans before handing it back and quickly shooing them away. That is, until particular fan, a young man sporting an SCW t-shirt, decides to try to spark up a conversation with Nick.
Fan: Hey champ, you've got a hell of a run you've been on lately, huh?
Nick: Yeah, of course. You have something you want signed or what?
The fan responds by placing down a wrestling magazine with Nick on the cover. Nick pulls the magazine over towards him and is about to sign it before he's interrupted by further conversation from the fan that causes him to stop.
Fan: I know you like to talk about how you've got this great undefeated record in SCW, but what about all of those tag matches you've lost?
Nick immediately stops and for the first time all day, looks up from the table towards the fan in front of him. In this case, he glares at the fan rather unhappily.
Nick: Excuse me?
Fan: Well I'm just saying. Sure you've won all of your singles matches, you've lost a lot and I mean A LOT of tag team matches.
Nick: Well maybe that's because I keep getting teamed up with a bunch of putzes who lose the match for us.
Nick then looks back down to the table and returns his attention to the magazine he was given, just about ready to sign it.
Fan: That's a fair point I guess. Although than how come a bunch of those times you were the one pinned?
Nick stops just before his pen touches the paper as he once again looks back up to the fan, now far more annoyed than before.
Nick: And you don't think that might have a little something to do with those same useless partners basically leaving me all alone to face every one of our opponents by myself?
Fan: It could be that, but I thought you always said that it doesn't matter how many opponents SCW books you against, that you'll still always win? So what's the deal?
Nick: Here's the deal... you need to shut the hell up now kid.
Nick is clearly quite angry now as he once again looks away to sign the magazine, but does not get even a moment of peace to do that.
Fan: I'm not a kid.
Nick looks up at the fan with nothing but a look of confusion on his face now.
Nick: What?
Fan: You called me a kid, I'm not a kid.
Nick: Yeah, great, whatever you say.
Fan: I'm already 18, and I'm about to start my training to be a wrestler. I'm going to be the best this business has ever seen, better than you.
Nick: 18, huh? Well now that's the first good news all day. That way, if I beat the living crap out of you, it won't be considered child abuse, but just simple assault.
An evil grin comes across Nick's face, as the kid takes a small step back as he seems a bit intimidated by the threat.
Nick: Better yet, if you want to become a wrestler, I can just get SCW to sign you for a day and then beat the hell out of you as much as I want and there's nothing anyone can do about that.
Nick then stares at the fan for a few more moments before then taking the magazine, still unsigned, and throwing it at the fan. He catches the magazine and quickly scurries off, as Nick just laughs to himself. Nick then looks over to the security guard for the event standing next to his table.
Nick: I think that's enough of that, I'm done for the day.
The security officer then gets in front of the table and starts to wave the remaining fans off. There's a bit of a negative reaction, considering there's still a bit of a line of fans who seem to have been waiting for a while that Nick is dismissing. Nick stands up at the table and has his head down as he gets together some of his things when he hears a voice, but doesn't even bother to look up at the person speaking.
Voice: Well would you look who we have here. I know this guy.
Nick: Yeah whatever, signing is over. Sorry pal.
Voice: That's fine, I wasn't looking for an autograph. Just wanted to wish you good luck in your match next week. Trust me, you're going to need it.
Nick: Screw you, buddy.
After that, Nick grabs the rest of his things and quickly turns and walks off, pushing his way through the remainder of the crowd as he tries to get out of there. As he's pushing through, his path is suddenly blocked by a busty and beautiful blonde woman who is looking directly at Nick and smiling, which causes Nick to stop in his tracks.
Woman: I know you're leaving, but is there any chance you could stop and sign something for little old me?
Nick gives the woman a quick look up and down a smile comes across his face before responding.
Nick: Well of course, I wouldn't want to disappoint one of my loyal fans.
The woman hands Nick a blank piece of paper and a pen. He writes a quick note, signs it and then jots something else down real quick before handing it back to her.
Nick: I threw my number on there, feel free to give me a call if you're ever in LA.
Nick continues looking at the woman for a moment and seems to be contemplating something before speaking again.
Nick: You know, you look really familiar. What's your name?
Woman: Kristen Hayes.
Nick: Kristen, huh? That sounds familiar, have we ever met before?
Kristen: You know, I think we just might have.
Nick: Well then, I guess we'll have to make sure we see each other again.
Nick smiles widely as he starts to move in closer to the woman, but at that exact moment, the same voice from earlier is heard from behind Nick.
Voice: Watch it there buddy, that's my lady you're talking to.
Nick: Oh geez, this freakin' clown again? Listen buddy...
Nick turns around and stops in mid-sentence as he looks in a complete state of shot upon seeing who he is talking. The scene then fans over to show none other than former 3-time GCW & undefeated ASFW World Heavyweight Champion, "Beautiful" Billy James. Billy is smiling from ear to ear as he walks past Nick over towards Kristen, putting his arm around her.
Billy: Long time no see, Nicky. How you been?
Nick is left speechless for a few moments before finally shaking it off and responding.
Nick: Still out there kicking asses and proving I'm the best.
Nick holds up his SCW title, showing it off towards Billy before continuing.
Nick: Unlike you, you washed up old has-been.
Nick then turns to Kristen, addressing her.
Nick: You're still seriously dating this clown?
Kristen: Well actually no, we're not dating.
Nick: Smart move. Then why are you hanging out with this chump?
Kristen: Well I see how that could be confusing, since I wasn't exactly completely honest with you when I told you my name. These days I go by Kristen James.
Kristen then holds up her hand to Nick, showing off what is clearly a rather impressive diamond engagement ring, as well as a wedding band. Nick seems almost disgusted by this, as Billy is clearly amused by Nick's reaction.
Billy: If that woman of yours has put up with you for this many years, you really think she was ever going to leave me?
Nick: Whatever... what the hell do I care anyway?
Billy: That's the spirit.
Nick: What are you even doing here? You running all over the country to go these to conventions in attempt to try to hold onto some desperate shred of your past glory?
Billy: Are you kidding me? I live here, man.
Nick: You live here? Like on this tour of conventions? Well that seems appropriate, spending all of your time hanging out with fellow nobodies.
Billy: No, you dipshit... Miami. I live in Miami.
Nick: Oh, well... you're still here hanging out with these losers now.
Billy: Come on now, that's no way to talk.
Billy pats Nick gently on the back in a reassuring matter. Nick seems confused at first, until he realizes that Billy is acting as thought if Nick was talking about himself. Upon the realization, Nick quickly shrugs off Billy.
Nick: So funny, no I'd be talking about all of these little chumps who sit here and stare at you with their mouths hanging open and drooling.
Billy: Well I have to say, none of the people who came by my table quite looked like, it sounds like you've got quite the interesting crowd of fans. So the real question is, what does that say about the crowd YOU'RE hanging out with by being here?
Nick: Well I just... it's that...
Billy: Yeah, yeah, yeah... don't even bother. Speaking of crowds, since when do you ever go anywhere alone? I was expecting to see that girl of yours with her clear self esteem issues and that heaping pile of idiot that is your cousin.
Nick: I don't need them. That means at this place or in that ring, I've proven that much enough times.
Billy: You know what, credit where it's due I'll actually give you that won.
Nick looks at Billy suspiciously, clearly not quite sure how to feel about what seems to have been a compliment.
Nick: Yeah... and?
Billy: Nothing. Listen, considering you were our good friend Mark's best buddy when me and him were in the midst of our little falling out, me and you never really got along so well. But given how many familiar faces I know from SCW's roster I've been watching plenty and I'll be honest, I'm impressed.
Nick: Just as you damn well should be.
Billy: And there's your problem, man. What's with that crap? Yeah, yeah, I get it that you're the bad ass who doesn't care what anyone thinks, but enough is enough already.
Nick: What are you talking about?
Billy: Think about it, you've come a long way in your career. When you started out you had a lot to prove to people. Everyone thought you were some punk who was doing Mark's dirty work and only got as far as you did because of his friendship. Now granted you're still always going to get that shit as long as you two can't stand being away from each other for a second...
Nick: Oh yeah, I'm so sorry I can actually be friends with someone for an extended period of time without them wanting to kick my ass.
Billy: Would you let me finish? As long as you and Mark are hanging out and you're the champ, you'll get some flack, but the bottom line is he's hardly stepping into that ring anymore and you're out there on your own, winning and retaining that gold. Trust me, I've been in your shoes, and there's only so long people can doubt you when you're out there proving it. The problem is, you make it so much easier for people to come up with as many reasons as possible to discredit you and flat out dislike you.
Nick: You really think I give a crap?
Billy: You can say that you don't as much as you want, but all of us who have stepped into that ring knows when everyone else in that arena thinks you're just as good as you do. That's never going to happen with you as long as you keep up this attitude.
Nick: So what, I should be like you and kiss the fans asses at all costs hoping beyond hope they'll suddenly be my best friends?
Billy: No, don't worry about them. All you have to worry about is doing the right thing, being a decent guy and cut the unnecessary horse shit you pull and the rest will fall into place. I promise you, you do that and suddenly everything, including winning matches, will become a lot easier.
Nick: I could be the nicest guy in the world, it's not going to do a damn thing about a special guest referee and enforcer who are out for my blood.
Billy: That's where you're wrong. If you want to win this match on Sunday, you'll have to outwrestle my boy Jordan and let me assure you that's a lot more difficult than you think. That also means you'll have to just worry about him, and not Rage or Bo, and that on the other hand, is much less difficult than you think.
Nick: Oh really? I'd love to hear this one.
Billy: What do you think those two are going to do if you play by the rules? If you're in that ring, there's not much Rage is going to be able to do to you, and as long as you do things right, there's not much Bo can do either. You do this thing right, the only person who's going to be able to stop you is your opponent.
Nick: In which case, I might as well start celebrating that win now.
Billy: You're a funny guy. Just a word of warning, Jordan is a lot more talented than you think, and these days he's performing better than ever. As much as you like to look down on tag teams, just remember I spent quite a while teaming with the guy, and we never lost a single match together. Criticize tag teams all you like, you know damn well that says something. Not to mention, you try to dismiss it all you want, but the guy has had a hell of a singles career, including multiple World title reigns. My last World title reign ended at the hands of your boy Mark, and don't you forget, it was Jordan who went on to take that belt from Mark.
Nick: Fine, maybe he's not all that bad, but I'm still better.
Billy: Well soon enough you'll have your chance to prove it. Just think about what I said, because if you take my advice, you've got what it takes to be one of the best.
Nick: What makes you think I'm not already.
Billy: You and I both know you still have higher goals you have yet to achieve, as much as you may try to convince everyone else otherwise. Like I said, think it over. Good luck out there next week and oh, by the way... tell Marky I said hey.
Billy laughs to himself with that last comment as he takes Kristen with his arm around her shoulder and leads her off, as Nick watches the to disappear into the crowd.
Nick: He wants me to change my attitude? Yeah right, like I'm the problem.
Nick scoffs at the idea before continuing on to walk out of the convention center as the scene fades.
<hr width=50%>
Later that day...
The scene fades back in inside of Miami International Airport, where Nick Jones is seen waiting in the check-in line. Nick is nearing the front of the line as he stands there with his arms crossed across his chest, mumbling to himself.
Nick: What's that washed up old has-been know anyway? He wants me to suddenly be some obnoxious ass-kissing nice guy? Like that is suddenly going to make the world love me. Maybe instead they just need to pull the sticks out of their asses and realize how damn good I am. I don't see any problem with the way I act or talk.
Just as he finishes his self rambling, he is called up as the next person in line. Nick then drags his baggage up to the counter. The airline employee then greets Nick with a big smile on her face.
Airline Employee: Hi sir, how are you doing this evening?
Nick responds, with sarcasm clearly dripping from his tone.
Nick: Just super.
Airline Employee: Alright then, are you checking in?
Nick: I already checked in online, just need to check my bag.
Airline Employee: Ok great. Can I just see your boarding pass and I'll get that all taken care of for you.
Nick pulls out his printout of his boarding pass and hands it over to the woman. He then takes his bag and places it up onto the weighing platform. The woman starts to type away at her computer for a few moments before eventually turning to Nick with a somewhat disappointed look on her face.
Airline Employee: I'm so sorry sir, but it looks as though you have been bumped to a later flight.
Nick: What?!? Oh you have got to be f...
Nick suddenly stops himself in mid-sentence as he sees the rather scared look on the woman's face from his brief outburts. Nick then takes a deep breath and puts on a big, fake cheesy smile for a moment.
Nick: I'm sorry about that. What I meant to say is that I completely understand that is outside of your control, and that won't be a problem.
The look on the woman's face immediately transforms to a large smile as she types away at her computer for a moment as a new boarding pass is then printed out. The woman grabs it out of the printer slot and hands it over to Nick as she smiles widely.
Airline Employee: Thank you so much for understanding sir, I hope you have a wonderful flight.
Nick: Oh... thanks. Have a nice day.
Airline Employee: Thank you sir, you too!
Nick takes the boarding pass from the woman's hand and turns and walks away as she tags his baggage and moves it over to the other side of the counter and onto the baggage belt. Nick takes a few steps away before stopping a moment and seeming to think things over as he talks to himself.
Nick: Did that loser maybe actually know what he was talking about?
Nick hesitates a moment as he seems to be thinking it over.
Nick: Nah!
Nick shakes his head as he then takes his new boarding pass, shoving it away into his carry-on bag without looking at it, as he walks off towards the security checkpoint as the scene fades to black.
