Eddie and Sabrina had been visiting his father Ray, for most of the day. They tried to make time for such visits when they were back home in Maryland visiting the Lyons Den.  Since the move to Las Vegas, Eddie didn't get out this way as much anymore.

Sabrina had done most of the chatting with his father during the day, and of course Jordan had been the center of it all as she always was these days with her big wide eyes full of curiosity.

“Uh-oh I think somebody might need a change..”  Sabrina said as Jordan started to fuss. “I better go get her cleaned up.”

“Might be some extra diapers in the guest room still if you need them.” said Ray

“Thanks dad.” Sabrina smiled “Come on Jordan, let's get you cleaned up then you can come back and play with Grandpa some more.”

Sabrina made her exit from the kitchen, you mean Eddie alone with his father.

“She makes it look so easy.” Eddie said.

“The baby or your wife?” his dad said with a grin.

“Both.” Eddie replied with a grin to match.

“Well you're doing great son.” his father said “A lot better than you think you are.”

“Sometimes it doesn't always feel like it..” Eddie said with a shrug

“You're not talking about Sabrina or the baby are you?” said his father

“High Stakes was supposed to be my shot to turn it around dad.” he said “But now I find myself stuck in another grudge match with Bill Barnhart. I just need to find my way to move past all this.”

“Still chasing the big one huh?” his father said.

“Isn't that what I'm supposed to do?” said Eddie

“Maybe not supposed to..” his father said “But driven to.”

His father gestured to a picture on the wall, it was of both his uncle's and his father. They all look so unstoppable and hungry. It  was the three of them before the fame. Before the family name became a brand and a burden.

“Your Uncle Vincent and your Uncle Zachary…” his father said “They ended up being the champions of the family one just about every title there was worth holding between the two of them, and me? I never won a damn thing.”

“You ever think about how the three of you turned out so differently?" said Eddie, "Uncle Vincent and Uncle Zachary? Sometimes it's like the three of you come from completely different worlds.”

"That's one way to put it" his father's shrugged "But we had the same house and the same father.  You never got to meet your grandfather but let's just say he wasn't the easiest man to be around. He was a military man, and the language he spoke was discipline. There was no showing weakness under his roof.”

“That kind of sounds like Uncle Vincent.” Eddie said.

“That's where he got it from.” his father nodded “Spent his whole life trying to be with the old man wanted him to be. I suppose being the eldest of the three of us he felt he had more to prove, and your uncle Zachary went the other way rebelling everything that came out of our father's mouth. The youngest and the wild child he was always causing some sort of problem.”

“What about you?” Eddie asked.

“Went ignored mostly..” Ray said “You get good at that as the middle child. I got my licks too, but I was mostly able to hide and watch from the shadows and vow that that was something I would never be.”

Eddie took a sip of his coffee as his father continued speaking.

“That might be why I never had the drive for championships your uncle's did.” his dad said “I loved the wrestling sure, it was a way for all of us to rebel because your grandfather hated it. But at the end of the day I didn't need gold around my waist to know who I was. I was just happy doing the work.”

“I know..” said Eddie softly “I think that's part of what pushes me, like if I get to that next level it would mean something for you as well.”

“You've already made me proud son.” his father said “You carry our name with pride and not ego. You don't need to win championships to get people behind me and you've already done more for the family name than I ever have and now you're building a family of your own while doing it.”

“Yeah but..” Eddie began

“No buts…” his father said “Your grandfather believed strength meant being hard  and there were times I used to think that as well. But I've learned that true strength is about getting up and knowing what you stand for,  and you've already figured that out Eddie. That's why you'll always be better than the three of us ever were. Championship or no championship.”

“You really think so?” said Eddie

“I know so.” his father said "Just keep fighting and make sure it's for the right reasons.”

Almost on cue, Sabrina returned with the baby. Eddie smiled at them.

“Yeah Dad, I will.” he said

The afternoon continued on into the evening. The feeling of warm family values fill the house the entire time alongside the smell of his father's “famous” Chicken Parmesan.

__________

The cameras open on any lion sitting on the back porch of a home in Maryland  it's mid evening and the chirp of the cicadas can be heard as Eddie quietly looks into the camera with that familiar fire behind his eyes.

“It's funny how life has a way of circling back on you.” said Eddie “I'm back here in my family home in Maryland, my dad's in there with my wife and daughter and everything has been so calm like I can just come here and… be.”

He pauses.

“You and I have done this dance before many times Bill.” Eddie said “I feel like I beat you more times and I can count. Somehow the road I'm traveling just keeps taking me right back to the same intersection.”

He sighs.

“It's like being back at the starting line staring at a face I've already left behind.” said Eddie “And that's no disrespect Bill, it's just truth. You've been around this place forever, one of those faces that never leaves. But you keep running laps around the same block, and I'm trying to break out of the neighborhood. I fight because I want something bigger and that's what makes this situation so frustrating.”

He exhales.

“When I look at you across from me in that ring at High Stakes." Eddie said “I'm going to be looking at a reflection of everything I'm trying to move past. I'm facing every close call, every almost that I've had in my career.”

He pauses shortly again.

“I could have made it easier.” he said “Done what my cousin Victoria did and found a back door into a championship match, but that's her style, not mine. If I'm going to do it I'm going to do it the right way, and if that means I have to keep beating Bill Barnhart a thousand more times then that's just what it's going to be.”

His words come firm and with conviction.

“I could even take another route and to be like my cousin Vincent." said Eddie “Act like I'm owed something, and try to carry out personal vendettas because I feel I've been wronged somehow instead of taking accountability. But again that's not me.”

He exhales softly.

“And Bill..” said Eddie “After everything I've done, what does it mean that I'm right back here facing you? Maybe it means this business doesn't care about your past wins, or how many times you think you've proven yourself.”

He shrugs.

“It could mean that I'm just destined to start over.” said Eddie “But that's fine because I'm not afraid of starting over, and grinding my way up because that's who Eddie Lyons is. My dad reminded me tonight that strength isn't always about winning championships, it's about knowing what you stand for.”

He nods.

“I know what I stand for.” said Eddie “I stand for truth and honor and hard work. I stand to remind you that no matter how many times you fall short you shouldn't give up. You keep fighting until you reach what you came to reach, because you can do it and you will do it. Just like I know I can become world champion, I can do it and I will do it.”

He takes another short pause letting his words linger.

“I honestly don't know much about what to say anymore Bill.” said Eddie “You and I've done this so many times and you know what the results are going to be. It will be me defeating you once again like has happened time and time again. I'll probably have a chance to get another title opportunity, Where I will finally either cross that finish line, or fall back to the starting line once more, face you and we'll do this all over again.”

He laughs but there's no amusement behind it.

“So I guess let's do this again.” Eddie said “Because the real story is not if Eddie Lyons is going to beat Bill Barnhart  It's WHEN Eddie Lyons beats Bill Barnhart will he take that momentum and finally go all the way?"

He pauses.

“I don't know the answer to how far I'll go after.” said Eddie “But I do know when it comes to you and I, I will always be your better. I'll see you at High Stakes Bill.”

With that he turns and heads back into the house and the scene fades to black.

If at first you don't succeed, try try again. That has been the story of Eddie Lyons for the better part of a year and once again he finds himself in another tournament with another opportunity to earn a shot at the SCW World Championship.

It's a story that would have broken most people by now, but somehow, someway, Eddie keeps his head about him and just keeps pushing forward. Perhaps it's due to the fact that he might be the only member of the Lyons family with a level head on his shoulders or the influence of his wife and infant daughter, but the mantra around Eddie Lyons has always been unbreakable and always keep fighting.

And that wasn't about to change.

Would he finish the story this time? Or would he be forced to write yet another chapter in his journey to the world championship?

Only time would tell.

__________

Eddie Lyons sat on the sofa of his warm living room with his infant daughter on his lap. Her eyes looked up at him half shut as she was fighting to stay awake. Eddie gently rocked her the way Sabrina had taught him.

“You should be sleeping you know.” he said quietly “But you're going to fight me too aren't you.”

Jordan's tiny hand balled into a fist and she awkwardly jerked it upward before it loosened again, like she was discovering what her hands could do.

“Yeah you get that from me.” Eddie laughed “Never stop fighting.”

“That's an understatement.” came the voice of his wife Sabrina has she entered the room, taking a seat next to Eddie and the baby.

“What's that supposed to mean?” said Eddie.

“That Jordan is as stubborn as you are.” Eddie Lyons.” Sabrina grinned.

“Yeah…” Eddie grinned back, “Runs in my family I guess.”

“You know you swore up and down you weren't going to be good at this.” Sabrina said motioning towards the baby “But you look like a natural to me.”

“Well she doesn't make it easy.” said Eddie "I mean she's got me wrapped around her little finger already.”

“You're loving this Dad thing.” though she said with a smile.

“I mean I always knew I'd like it.” said Eddie “Looking down at the little bundle in his lap, “I just didn't realize how much it would change me. Before it was just all about wrestling because that was all I had. Now when I come home, whatever happened out there doesn't matter. As soon as I see her smiling at me and falling asleep in my arms. It's like a hard reset.”

He looked down at Jordan and realized her tiny eyes had closed and she had finally drifted off to sleep.

“She always falls asleep faster for you, you know. I think she's gonna be a daddys girl.“ said Sabrina.

Eddie smiled he loved his little family and for a moment his mind slightly drifted to the other side of his family.

“I wonder how I ended up the way I did.” said Eddie “I mean with Victoria still trying to play queen of everything, Vincent going off the rails and whatever the hell Alexander is doing these days, probably brooding somewhere. They all get wrapped up in their own storms. But I sit here as the level headed one of the family.”

“Does that bother you?” asked Sabrina.

“It used to.” said Eddie “But it doesn't anymore. It used to feel like being level-headed made me boring. Like I didn't have all the flash and flare of the rest of them. But I understand now that maybe boring isn't so bad. Jordan doesn't need a storm, she needs someone that's going to be here for her everyday no matter what and the rest of my family has yet to figure that out.”

“That's why I know she'll grow up safe.” said Sabrina “Because you are level-headed and you are the anchor of the Lyons family whether your cousins realize it or not.”

Those words settled heavier and Eddie than Sabrina probably meant. Eddie thought about all the nights he spent chasing success so people could point at him and say he made it. But now he didn't care if the world thought he made it as long as Jordan did, as long as she grew up knowing her dad never quit on himself.

“Come on, we should put her in the crib.” said Sabrina.

Eddie nodded and stood up gently carrying his daughter, following Sabrina to the baby room where Jordan would probably end up disturbing them from in a few hours time, if they were lucky that is.

__________

The cameras open to find Eddie Lyons sitting on the apron of a ring at the Lyons Den, the sweat of a recent workout fresh on his face.

“You know I've tried to wonder if maybe my story is always going to be the same.” said Eddie. "You look back on my career so far and you see the pattern. I make it to the end, I have everything within my grasp, but then I stumble and never quite cross the finish line. I end up watching somebody else leave with the trophy.

He exhales heavily.

“It's a pattern that would break most people.” said Eddie “But I'm not most people. When I fall short, I pick myself up. If a door slams shut in my face, I knock on it again. That's the difference, that's what makes me unbreakable because I never pack it in and I don't walk away.”

He pauses shortly.

“That's why I actually have a certain amount of respect for Justin Smith.” said Eddie “On paper we couldn't be more different. I've been to the finals and at the doorstep of greatness more times than I can count, but Justin never seems to ever get his feet off the ground. He suffers loss after loss, rarely picking up a victory but yet he doesn't stop.”

Eddie leans back slightly resting his body against the ropes.

“He still walks out there throwing fists in arenas where everybody expects him to lose, that's a special kind of stubbornness." Eddie continued “It takes a lot of guts to keep at it when everyone looks at you as a failure. That's why I hold some respect for Justin Smith because I understand it, that refusal to let go.”

He furrows his brow a bit with a more serious expression on his face.

“But respect doesn't mean this is going to be a feel-good story for you Justin.” said Eddie “Because that's where we stop being alike. You're still going to try to get your feet off the ground while I've already proven I belong 100 times over. I've been in finals, I've been in the marquee matches, but you're still sniffing at the opportunity to even get that far.”

Eddie stands up stretching out his arms a bit.

“I might end up with the same old story when High Stakes comes to an end.” said Eddie “Get to the finals, lose and someone else gets to face Carter instead. Or maybe I actually win, get the opportunity and Carter just beats me. But what's not going to happen is me letting somebody who can't even get their feet out of the water trip me up in round one”

He begins pacing a more intense feeling about him now.

“That's just the truth of it isn't it Justin?” said Eddie “Because no matter how many times I've fallen, it's been near the finish line, but you always miss from the start. I know you're going to come at me with those sledgehammer fists. You'll rough me up good, but at the end of the day we all know it's my hand getting raised this isn't where I fall.”

His pace slows down slightly, his voice growing firmer.

“So bring your fight Justin.” said Eddie “I know you will. I also know that it's not going to be enough because my fight is always stronger. Both of us will always come back swinging next time, but only one of us gets to swing at the finish and that's going to be Unbreakable Eddie Lyons.”

He stares confidently into the camera, there's a slight quiver of his lip as everything fades to black.

Eddie had finally been able to find a few hours for himself with Sabrina and Jordan safely resting in one of the guest homes on the Lyons Family Estate, he took the time to make his way over to the Lyons Den itself to get some training done.

His upcoming match with Alex Jones meant more than some people may realize to him. It wasn't just about getting some payback for Alex's involvement in his match with World Champion Helluva Bottom Carter a few weeks ago,  but it was also about gaining some momentum going into the Internet Championship match and getting that momentum by beating the former world champion.

He had just finished a round of some cardio exercises when he was approached by Coach Kaiser

“Oh hey Coach.” Eddie said “How's it going?”

“Just trying to keep it all together.” said Coach Kaiser has the two embraced in a friendly hug. “Vincent really put us in a bind.”

Eddie exhaled. He still loved his family including Vincent but what Vincent did to Logan Hunter was something Eddie couldn't condone.

“I just hope he's able to get the help he needs.” said Eddie

“So do I “ said Coach Kaiser. “But I have to admit I don't have a lot of confidence in that happening. He's not even talking to Victoria.”

“Yeah that doesn't sound good.” Eddie agreed, “But honestly I can't worry about any of that right now.”

“Nor should you.” said Coach Kaiser “Anyway, How are you? How are the girls?”

“Sabrina is becoming a fantastic mother and Jordan is getting bigger every day.” said Eddie with a smile, “She really is a blessing.”

“Yeah I remember that feeling when Erin was first born.” said Coach Kaiser

“Erin is getting better with her training everyday.” said Eddie. "I see her working hard when I'm here. She's gonna be a star.”

“Well she's still only sixteen.” said Coach Kaiser, “She's going to have to finish school first. I won't let her make the same mistakes I did when I was young.”

“Well, whatever she does I'm sure she'll be great at it.” said Eddie, “Erin's a good kid.”

“She is.” said Coach Kaiser “She's got a lot of sass to her though, takes after her aunt in that way I suppose.”

Eddie said nothing, only gave his coach a look.

“...Oh right you have to face Alex Jones this week.” said Coach Kaiser

“And he's dating your daughter's Aunt.” said Eddie

“Look Eddie.” Coach Kaiser  “Yes, Aaron Asphyxia is one of my best friends but this thing you got going on with Alex Jones has nothing to do with that.  That is all between the two of you.”

“Yeah I know I know.” said Eddie “I'm just saying…”

“And even then if she were to involve herself and try to screw you over, I would take your side." said Coach Kaiser, “She knows that too, she knows my students come first always. But I assure you she won't be a problem, this is just you and Alex.”

“No you're right.” said Eddie, "I just need to get myself out of this slump. I know I can be a champion and I know I deserve to be.”

“Just remember to stay true to yourself Eddie.” said Coach Kaiser

“I will.” said Eddie “You know I can't be anything else. But I have to wonder if it's enough because I've said it time and time again, I'm tired of almost. I'm tired of just being a good hand.”

“You will have your time.” said Coach Kaiser “Just never give up on yourself and keep fighting. When you finally get there you will know you have truly earned it. You won't know that it only took so long because you didn't take any shortcuts. I remember someone who once said that victory without honor is like an unseasoned dish, it can satisfy your hunger but it will never taste as good.”

"I said that.." Eddie replied.

“I know.” said Coach Kaiser “And don't you forget it because that's who you are, when you're knocked down you keep fighting never giving up on reaching your goals no matter how long it takes. You'll see some get there faster than you but most of them will have taken shortcuts. But when you get there it will be much sweeter because everything you worked for will have truly paid off.”

Eddie nodded,  he knew his coach was right he just had to stay in the fight and do the best he could and when it finally paid off it would be the greatest feeling in the world.

He would get there and he would do it his way even if it took forever, because as the old saying goes, nice guys finish last.

“Come on let's go run some drills." said Coach Kaiser “Let's get you ready to take down Alex Jones.”

Eddie nodded and the two headed to a nearby ring where a new training session began with Eddie running the ropes.

If he could beat Alex Jones maybe that could give him not just momentum but the confidence or kick in the butt he needed to bring home the Internet Championship at  Violent Conduct.

__________

Eddie sits on some ring steps with  a towel around his neck, body glistening with sweat. The cameras focus on him for a bit before he lets out an exhale and begins speaking.

“You know I really don't like people like you Alex.” said Eddie, "You think you can do whatever you want, to whoever you want. You cheat and swindle your way to the top and even worse you're proud of all of it.”

Eddie shakes his head clearly disgusted.

“You're proud to be a cheater and a liar.” said Eddie “And you're a father too? That's the example you want to set for your child? I recently became a father myself and I would never want my daughter to see me as somebody who cheats and lies and uses other people for their own gain. She will see her father as someone who never gave up, always stayed in the fight and even when he was beaten down he got back up and continued to fight because that's what true winners do.”

Eddie lets out a heavy frustrated exhale.

“I want to be a champion as much as anybody." said Eddie but more importantly “I want to be a good example for my daughter. I want to be a Champion that the fans can respect and that means no shortcuts, that means doing it the right way.”

He pauses using part of the towel to wipe some sweat from his face.

“You're a coward Alex.” said Eddie “And you proved that a few weeks ago when you got involved in my match with Helluva Bottom Carter. Carter and I were having a perfectly fine match like real men, and then here you come hiding under a mask like the little bitch you are because you're all pissed off that Carter beat you for the championship.”

Eddie glares daggers at the camera as he speaks.

“That just reeks of a man who can't accept his own failures.” said Eddie “At least I can man up to my shortcomings and don't complain about them like a petulant child. I don't sneak attack the people that have defeated me to send a message. I stand up and face my problems like a real man.”

Eddie rises to his feet and takes a couple steps closer to the camera.

“And you've made yourself my problem now.” said Eddie “You may not have attacked me in that match but what you did was make me some sort of pawn or afterthought in whatever game you want to play with our world champion, whom I actually have respect for by the way.”

Eddie pauses for a moment.

“I'm nobody's pawn and I'm no afterthought.” said Eddie “You need to be the one on top and hold a championship so bad because it's all you have. You need that gold to make yourself feel like you're worth something. I however am capable of being important even if I never win championship gold because I'm real and people believe in me.”

He keeps his eyes deadlocked on the camera.

“I'm going to go out there I'm going to smack that smug look straight off your face.” said Eddie, “And you might pull some little trick and pull one over on me and get the victory but deep down you know how hollow that Victory will be and you know that you could never beat me legitimately. But I can beat you legitimately, and I will. So try all the little tricks you can think off because none of them are going to work.”

He pauses shortly.

“You'll turn around and blame everybody else.” said Eddie “You'll tell yourself whatever you need to to feel better about it. You might even bitch out and quit again because you can't accept the fact that you're just not as good as you think you are.”

Eddie laughs under his breath.

“I will be a world champion someday.” said Eddie “Maybe not this year, maybe not even next year but it will happen. When it does it will be the reward of all my hard work not just a prize I need to feel better about myself. I don't need to measure myself by championships won. I measure myself by my actions and I measure myself by getting people to believe in me even if I'm not always successful.”

He took a step closer to the camera leaning in slightly.

“At the end of the day we're cut from completely different cloths Alex.” said Eddie “You like your shortcuts, I like the long road. You stab people in the back, I show on my chest and say hit me with your best shot. You like to be slick and manipulative because you don't believe in yourself enough to do it the right way. You would rather steal glory than earn it."

Eddie shakes his head slightly, pacing back and forth in front of the ring steps.

“The truth is I haven't had all the wins I wanted and I've had more than my fair share of heartbreak.” said Eddie “It's something people love to remind me of, Eddie Lyons the guy who almost got there but just couldn't win the big one. I hear it every time. I even hear it when I look at my daughter and think about the man I want her to grow up seeing her father as. You think I don't feel that pressure? You think I don't just want to take the easy way out sometimes?”

He pauses shortly.

“But I don't.” said Eddie “I don't fold under the pressure I let it push me. I let the pressure build me like I'm a piece of coal and at the end it's going to make a diamond. All my failures, all my missed opportunities are shaping me into something stronger. So it might seem like it's all breaking me down but the truth is it's all building me up, and at Climax Control, you will find out exactly what that all looks like.”

He lets out a quick exhale.

“I'm sure you'll find me corny for saying that.” said Eddie “You will make jokes and brag about how you've done this for years and all the championships you've won we know the routine with you. You're going to puff your chest up and talk about how much of a legend you are and that you're the best of the best and everyone should worship the ground you walk on.”

Eddie shakes his head.

“But true legends don't need to remind people of their legends.” said Eddie “But you're the type that just doesn't shut up about it and that tells me that deep down you're insecure. You're afraid that someone like me who's younger and hungrier who has nothing to lose it's going to take everything from you and tear it away, and honestly? You’re goddamn right that's what's going to happen.”

His words come crisp and sharp.

“This isn't just about momentum or revenge for me.” said Eddie “I'm going to expose you, because people like you think you're untouchable and above it all. I'm going to drag you in the mud and show you that I'm not afraid to get dirty and scrap and claw with everything I have.  I'm ready to show you that I don't run from the grind, I embrace every single second of it.”

He remains eyes locked almost looking through the camera.

“After Climax Control you're going to know me.” Eddie continued “You're going to know the name Eddie Lyons. Not as an afterthought, not has a background player in whatever issue you have with Carter. I'm going to be the guy who out worked you, and when you're lying on your back looking up at the lights you'll understand why the fans continue to believe in me. Why I believe in me, and why my daughter will grow up knowing her father never needed to cheat his way to the top or take the coward's way out to get what he wanted.”

He takes a step or two closer to the camera.

“So shine that ego up.” said Eddie “Because I'm ready for all of it. I'm ready for every trick you can bring, because when the dust settles the world will see you for the fraud you really are, and they will see me for what I am and that's the future of Sin City Wrestling and the one who will be the next Internet Champion.”

Eddie's words linger heavy in the air as he keeps his intense days on the camera while everything fades to black.

__________

The fan softly buzzed above in the Cancun hotel where Eddie and his family resided. He sat by the balcony door looking across the late Cancun night. A mix of warm air and some faint music drift up from some beach side bar.

Jordan lay in their travel crib asleep while, Sabrina lay in the bed in half asleep mode

“You should try to get some sleep.” Sabrina's voice came softly

“I will.” said Eddie “I'm just clearing my head a bit.”

“You've been clearing your head for an hour.” Sabrina replied "Your match isn't tonight.”

“No…” said Eddie “But it kind of feels like it is and I need to be sure I'm ready, because Alex Jones is the type of guy who will use whatever tricks he can to make me second guess myself and if I'm not ready mentally or physically he will use that against me.”

Sabrina sat up slightly glancing at Jordan to see she was still sleeping peacefully before her eyes shot back over to Eddie.

“You are ready.” she said “You always are, even when you don't believe it."

“Yeah but sometimes I wonder if being ready is enough.” he said “Alex Jones has been around the block, a former world champion he's a guy who knows how to survive. And he thrives on making people like me look like they'll never get past almost.”

“You're not almost. “ Sabrina said “You're exactly where you're supposed to be. You've been climbing and fighting and clawing your way up without taking any shortcuts that's not almost that's just being real.”

Eddie looked back at Sabrina with a smile, she always knew the right thing to say. Then they were interrupted by a soft cry from the crib.

“I got her.” said Eddie already moving over toward the crib he was getting more used to the rhythm of being a dad as the first month was coming to an end. He scooped Jordan up gently and pressed her against his chest, her cries softening almost immediately.

“It's okay sweetie. it's okay.” Eddie said softly as he carried her towards the balcony door, Sabrina watching them from the bed.

“I think somebody's going to be a daddy's girl.” she said smiling.

“Oh she's going to be spoiled rotten.” replied Eddie with a grin of his own

There was a short moment of warm comfort among Eddie's small family.

“She doesn't even know that she's the reason I'm going to push harder than I ever have.” he said “Everything I do now is for her and for the both of you, that's something Alex Jones doesn't understand. He will cheat, lie and manipulate because he doesn't believe he can do it the right way.  But I won't raise her with that example, I want her to grow up knowing her dad didn't break and take shortcuts even when it would have been easier to do so “

Jordan let out a soft coo that brought a smile to his face.

“That's why this match at Climax Control is so important to me.” he said “Because it's not just about Alex, it's about proving to myself and everybody that I can take down someone like him. That I can be more than the guy that tries hard and comes up short. To show that I belong where everybody says I belong.”

“You fight like hell babe it's just who you are.” said Sabrina “That's why it's only a matter of time before you're holding gold you've already earned it ten times over.”

“Yeah, the Internet Championship that's the ultimate goal right now.” said Eddie “If I can make it happen at Violent Conduct….”

He paused cutting himself off.

“No. I shouldn't think like that.” he said “I need to shake all the doubt. It's going to be when I become Internet Champion at Violent Conduct. No if."

“I know you will.” Sabrina smiled back at him. “This is your moment Eddie Lyons.”

“You always know how to keep me grounded.” Eddie smiled back at her.

“That's my job.” said Sabrina “You wrestle, I keep you from going insane I have my part to play in this whole thing too.”

“And you're amazing at it.” Eddie said.

He smiled back at her carefully laying Jordan back in the crib has she drifted back to sleep before going to lay on the bed next to his wife.

“I'm going to do it.” said Eddie “Whatever I have to do, I will figure it out. I will defeat Alex Jones at Climax Control and I'll bring home the Internet Championship the right way. For you, for Jordan, and for everybody that's believed in me.”

A confidence filled the room has Sabrina and Eddie settled into bed together. Eddie felt his confident as he ever did, he was ready and it was time for him to become the champion he and everybody around him knew he could be.

The spa of the Princess Cruise had a pleasant flowery smell about it. Eddie and Sabrina entered, some soft instrumental music filled the air as they stepped into one of the private spa suites with two day passes.

Eddie was a bit surprised how quickly Sabrina got herself ready in her white robe and sat on the edge of the massage table like a queen waiting for royal treatment.

“Nice place.” Eddie commented “Our day passes allow us for a full treatment as well.”

Sabrina gave him a curious grin as she walked over to him.

“My day passes.” she said snatching them both out of his hand. “Thank you babe.”

“Sabrina…” said Eddie “That's two passes, they were for the both of us.”

“Yep.” said Sabrina with a grin. “They were.”

“Okay….” Eddie said "What's happening here?”

“What's happening is I'm an 8 month pregnant woman.” said Sabrina “We had to jump through hoops and waivers just to even get me allowed on this cruise. I'm growing a literal human inside of me. So I decided that I get two spa treatments.”

“Sounds like you're trying to justify robbery to me.” Eddie grinned.

“You'll survive.” said Sabrina.

“But how am I going to stretch my chakras and meditate?” Eddie protested halfheartedly.

“Your chakras will be fine.” Sabrina retorted.

“You're really taking both aren't you?” said Eddie

[color=lavender“Are you going to tell your pregnant soon to be in a few days wife no?”[/color] Sabrina asked, eyebrow raised.

“Well you got me there.” said Eddie with a smile.

“That's what I thought.” said Sabrina playfully. “Besides you know this sort of thing is too girly for you anyway.”

“So what am I supposed to do?” said Eddie

“It's a big ship, lots to do.” Sabrina said “You'll find something.”

“Yeah I guess.” said Eddie

Sabrina looked at him blankly.

“You can go now.” she said.

It wasn't a request.

“Damn.” said Eddie “That's a little cold.”

“It's Spa Time Eddie Lyons.” Sabrina said

There was no way he was going to win this argument and he was only really mildly interested in the spa anyway. Something Sabrina likely knew but if his pregnant fiancee wanted two spas who was he to argue? Besides, she made a good point, there was a lot to do on this ship, so with a soft kiss he left Sabrina to her relaxing treatment.

__________

The sounds of the onboard Casino of the Princess Cruise filled the room around Eddie Lyons and Cleo Phillips as they stood together at the roulette table.

Eddie observed the table pondering a decision looking over at Cleo who only narrowed her eyes at him and shrugged.

“All right.” said Eddie cracking his knuckles “Red I'm telling you it's going to be red.”

“That's what you said last time.” Cleo said “Red keeps bleeding you dry.”

“But like blood, red keeps coming back.” said Eddie

“If you say so E.” Cleo said with a shrug.

“All in on red” Eddie said, pushing his chips forward.

He watched the wheel spin,  around and around. Cleo and the rest of the crowd observed as the ball clattered into place.

Black.

Cleo snorted.

“You've got to be kidding me..” said Eddie “Why does the gambling universe hate me?”

“It doesn't hate you.” said Cleo, "You're just not playing with any strategy. Follow me. I'll show you how we do it.”

“What? You going to win big and make me feel bad a couple days before my wedding?” said Eddie

“No. I'm going to win to make myself feel better.” Cleo grinned.

“Fair enough.” said Eddie

Cleo stopped at the Craps table and tossed a handful of chips on the table. Daddy watched has she shook the dice vigorously.

“Come on let's hit em’ with that seven..” Cleo said.

The dice rolled onto the table and revealed themselves.

Snake eyes.

Eddie snorted.

“That… that was a warm up.” said Cleo

“Uh-huh..” Eddie grinned.

Tossing more chips on the table Cleo grabbed and rolled the dice again.

Eight.

“Boom.” said Cleo with a smile

“All right, all right I'm in.” said Eddie tossing some chips on the table.

“Thought you were broke E.” said Cleo

“Always got to have a side pocket.” said Eddie

They continued playing at the Craps table for a while, both of them making bold bets and poor decisions. Still  both of them were up by the time they left the table Cleo more so than Eddie.

After the tables they decided to play the slots Eddie wasn't too keen on the idea of getting robbed by a metal machine with blinking lights but here they were.

He watched as Cleo pressed the button on her machine causing the wheels to spin when they stopped, the machine lit up like a Christmas tree in Times Square during December.

JACKPOT
$5000

“CH-YEAH!!” Cleo exclaimed.

“Holy crap!” said Eddie wide-eyed.

“Your girl's eating at the fancy Steakhouse tonight.” said Cleo “And she's getting the most expensive thing on the menu.”

“Congratulations.” said Eddie

“Well I ain't going to try my luck again..” said Cleo, stepping away from the machine.

They walked through the casino again, a cocktail waitress offering them both drinks as she passed. Cleo accepting and Eddie politely declining in support of Sabrina.

A few more slot machines later and even a couple games of blackjack both of them had decided that enough was enough, although really it was mostly because Eddie was tired of losing money and if he lost any more Sabrina wouldn't be too happy.

But even though he had lost more money than he came here with,  he was still having a good time and it was still the most exciting week of his life. He could earn back the money he was mostly looking forward to officially making Sabrina his wife.

_________

The sun was high in the sky has Eddie and Sabrina lay relaxed on their lounge chairs on the pool deck holding hands has their arms dangled off the side of each of their chairs.

You have that look in your eyes said Eddie.

“What look?” Sabrina replied, taking a sip of her mocktail.

“The one that says you're about to make somebody's day slightly annoying for your own amusement.” Eddie said

“I'm just relaxing.” Sabrina said “That's all I'm a guest on this ship after all.”

With the snap of her fingers she signaled for one of the the attendants, the girl's name tag read Brielle as she made her way over.

"Hello Brielle..." Sabrina said with a smirk.

“Sabrina…..” said Brielle “I… I didn't know you were on board.”

“I'm on vacation.” Sabrina said “And I'm glad to see my favorite towel girl.”

Sabrina's words sounded sweet, but they had a slight tang to them.

“I see…” said Brielle, attempting to maintain her professional tone “How may I help you ma'am?”

“No need to be formal, we're all friends here.” Sabrina grinned “Can you please bring me some extra towels and can you make sure they're warm?”

“Warm?” replied Brielle

“Yes warm.” said Sabrina “Warmed in that little cubby near the spa I know you know where it is.”

Eddie only watched, he knew better than to interfere. If his pregnant fiancee was going to be petty he wasn't going to be the one to stop her.

“Of course.” said Brielle with a slight twitch of the jaw.

As the girl walked off to fetch the towers Sabrina looked over at Eddie.

“I don't even want the towels.” she grinned

Eddie could only shake his head and laugh.

“Hey..” said Sabrina “When I worked with her she told me I wasted too much time being friendly with guests, she called me lazy, and she insulted my homemade lemon bars.”

“Okay well I don't know who would be stupid enough to insult your lemon bars.” said Eddie, “Does she have no taste buds?”

“Apparently not.” said Sabrina

Just then Brielle returned with the towels and a forced smile.

“Here you go ma'am.” she said

Sabrina touched one of the towels and frowned.

“I asked for warm towels..” she said.

“But.. but…” said Brielle

“It's okay. I'll wait.“ she said staring Brielle directly in the eye as if testing her.

“Yes ma'am.” Brielle replied

And off the girl went to fetch another set of towels that Sabrina still didn't actually want.

“Seriously?” said Eddie

“She insulted my lemon bars.” said Sabrina

“Well..” said Eddie “As long as you're having fun.”

They both shared a laugh together, as the cool ocean air soothed their skin.

Soon Brielle returned with another set of towels setting them next to Sabrina.

“Perfect.” said Sabrina with a smile. “These are lovely. Can you please get my fiancee and myself some cucumber waters? I'm feeling a bit parched.”

“Of course right away.” Brielle said

“And you remember to stay hydrated too Brielle.” said Sabrina “You wouldn't want to wilt on the job.”

“All right are you done being petty.” said Eddie

“Maybe..” Sabrina grinned.

“I'm telling you if Jordan comes out with your level of petty.” said Eddie “The world is going to be in trouble.”

“The world better watch out you mean.” Sabrina grinned. “Besides, all I did was ask an employee to cater to one of their guests.”

“Of course.” said Eddie

They sat in peaceful silence together for a while just enjoying the warmth of each other's company as Brielle returned with the waters

“Here you go miss “ she said. "Can I get you anything else?”

“Yeah can you take the towels please? I'm done with them.” said Sabrina

“Of course.” said Brielle clearly fighting to maintain composure.

Brielle took the still warm unused towels and walked off with them as Eddie just shook his head at Sabrina.

“I love you," he said.

“I love you too Eddie Lyons.” she replied

And he truly did love Sabrina and he was ready to marry her on this very ship and just a few days. Even if he didn't win on Sunday somehow he felt he was leaving the cruise with the biggest prize of all.

__________

The sun was casting a warm streak of orange across the waters amidst  an ever present and gentle sea breeze. A section of the upper deck had been roped off and a canopy erected for the ceremony.

Eddie already stood at the altar adjusting the cuffs of his suit as the nerves were setting in. He had felt nerves before for many of his big matches but this felt different. This felt like something even bigger than the ring, the one he competed in not the one he was prepared to place on Sabrina's finger.

Coach Kaiser stood proudly next to him in his own black suit. He looked over at his student and friend placing a hand on Eddie's shoulder which helped calm Eddie some.

Across from them stood Sabrina's older sister Jenny. She was taller but she had the same eyes. A soft bouquet of flowers in her hand smiling warmly quietly mouthing “breathe” to Eddie as he gave his soon-to-be sister-in-law a subtle understanding nod.

His eyes scanned the crowd of  guests. There was Cleo and his father right in the front Sabrina's parents were there too. He even saw a few of the invited SCW faces he had come to know over the years. The ones that had seen him climb and fall and rise again. People he had been in the ring and exchanged fists with were now smiling happily for him. Just as regular everyday people, no gimmicks, no performances, just life.

Then the music started a soft melodic violinist, play the plastic Bridal chorus has Sabrina appeared walking in between the separated rows of chairs wearing an ivory dress that swayed along with the sea breeze her lips curled into that sly little smirk that Eddie loved so much.

He didn't even realize he stopped breathing for a second.

He smiled at her as she reached the altar and she smiled back as the officiant welcomed everyone.

“We are gathered here today…” the officiant said “To celebrate one of life's greatest moments to give recognition to beauty and love as we join together Eddie Lyons and Sabrina Woods in holy matrimony.”

Eddie exhaled softly to keep himself from getting choked up.

“This is not the beginning of a new relationship.” the officiant continued “But a new chapter in a bond that already exists. A promise made in the hearts of two people who have found strength in one another.”

She turned to Eddie.

“Do you have your vows?” she asked

“I do.” said Eddie

He didn't read from any paper, he only spoke from the heart.

“We met last year about this very ship and now a year later here we are.” said Eddie.  “I know it's tough, and I'm not always home because I'm out on the road a lot. But you stay with me through it and you give me something worth fighting for. You are the best thing that's ever happened to me and you keep me motivated even when you don't have to. Even when I'm at my lowest, you're the one that picks me back up, and I promise to do the same for you and our daughter everyday no matter what. I will always be there and I will always provide. We will laugh, and grow and struggle together. I love you Sabrina.“

Eddie exhaled and the officiant turned to Sabrina.

“Your vows ma'am” she said

Sabrina nodded.

“Eddie Lyons..” she said with a smile. "You are the most kind, loyal and wonderful man I've ever met. You are exactly what I never knew I needed. Sometimes I feel like I need to guard myself around people but not with you, you just love me for me. I am very much looking forward to our life together, you me and our daughter. We're going to have a good time and we're going to have bad times but we're going to have them together and I wouldn't want anybody else by my side. I love you Eddie Lyons. “

There was a slight crack in her voice but she maintained.

“Do we have the rings?” the officiant asked

Coach Kaiser produced the rings from his suit pocket and handed him over. The officiant looked over to Sabrina's father in the front row.

“Sir, do you give this woman to this man.?” she asked

Her father nodded and Eddie smiled back at him. He always felt that part was a little outdated but Sabrina said it was important to her.

Eddie slid the ring onto Sabrina's finger.

“With this ring I give you my heart.” he said.

Smiling back Sabrina slid her ring on to Eddie's finger.

“And with this ring I give you mine.” She said.

“By the power invested in me.” the officiant said, "I Now pronounce you husband and wife you may kiss your bride.”

Eddie wasted no time locking Sabrina in his arms and kissing her like she was the only thing that mattered as the crowd erupted into applause. Cleo of course being the loudest.

“That's My Boy!!!!” Cleo shouted

Eddie shook his head with a laugh as they were announced as Mr and Mrs. Lyons for the first time and then he saw something up higher in the shadows of an observation deck.

It was Vincent and Victoria, they looked to Eddie and gave him a silent respectful nod to which he returned.

It wasn't peace between him and his cousins but it felt like a sliver of a respect maybe understanding that even with all the chaos going on in their world they could still have rare meaningful moments like this untouched by any grudges.

_________

The scene opens with Eddie Lyons relaxing in a lounge chair. He has an aura about him as though everything is right in the world.

“Well I guess our little cruise is coming to an end soon.” said Eddie. “I hope all you gentlemen enjoyed your time. I know I did. It's official now fellas I'm a happily married man.

He holds up his hand to the camera showing off the ring.

“I mean I've already got the greatest prize of all right?” he said “But before we leave this cruise, I get a chance at another prize. A chance to once again try to break through and earn myself a world championship opportunity.”

He nodded confidently.

“But in order to do so I have to make sure that six other men get tossed overboard.” Eddie said. “Six other men whose only goal is to do the same to me. But they won't not this time I'm already leaving a married man,  but I'm also leaving number one contender. Eddie Lyons will leave the cruise with everything.”

He paused shortly.

“It certainly won't be a loudmouth wannabe edgelord like Logan Hunter “ said Eddie “Who just went on and on puffing his chest like he was somebody. Your own arrogance is what will blind you Logan,  and it is the reason why I will send you crashing into the waters below. People like you are a dime a dozen Logan you come in, have a little flash of success and then fade back into the abyss entirely.”

Eddie clears his throat.

“Although I guess maybe Logan doesn't seem as desperate as our friends Bill and Justin.” said Eddie "These are the two that everybody clowns on the most because like cockroaches they keep showing up and they get squashed every single time. I hate to echo what everybody else says but it's a bit curious how these two keep getting these opportunities but I can't worry about that there's just two more clowns for me to toss off the ship.”

Eddie shrugs not showing any real intimidation, only confidence.

“Now one I definitely need to keep my eyes on is Aiden Reynolds.” Eddie continued “I'm not quite sure what his deal is lately, he speaks of respect but he also says that I'm scared. I've never been afraid of anything Aiden. I get in there and I push myself to do the best each and every time and maybe sometimes it's not good enough but the point is I don't give up and I don't make excuses. You seem a little too angry right now Aiden and I think you're a little bit off your game. I mean you even made a vaguely homophobic remark to Miles a few weeks ago.  Get your mind right or I'm going to toss your ass overboard Aiden.”

He pauses.

“And then we have that glorified rent a cop Liam Davis.” said Eddie “A man who thinks he has some sort of authority over everyone because of his badge. But you need to listen to me Paul Blart.   badge means nothing to me. This is the SCW ring,  this is my world and I'm going to toss you right out of it into the open waters below.”

He exhales.

“And then there's Miles Kasey.” said Eddie “If ever there was a mirror image of myself in this match it's Miles. We both have that same fire, we both have that same desire to finally reach our goals. It seems like it slips away from both of us right when we get close every single time. We're also both loving husbands. We really have a lot more in common than I think both of us realize.”

He pauses again, shifting slightly.

“But I won't even let my own mirror image stop me this time Miles." said Eddie “Right now I'm still riding that feeling of just getting married  I feel like I can take on anything. I'm sure you had that same feeling when you and Carter got married, so you know exactly what I'm talking about. You know I have all the respect in the world for you just as much as you have for me and that's why you know I'm going to stop at nothing to throw you overboard with the rest of them. Mate.”

He pauses again.

“We can all talk our game and we can all make our comments about each other.” said Eddie “But at the end of the day talk is cheap, and only one of us goes on to become number one contender. With the confidence I'm feeling right now that's someone is most definitely going to be Unbreakable Eddie Lyons. So J2H,  Helluva Bottom Carter…., I'll be seeing one of you soon.”

With one final confident nod everything fades to black.

If there was one word that to describe the SCW career of Eddie Lyons currently, it would be stagnant. Always coming close but never fully grabbing that brass ring.

As much as he tried to hide it, it did bother him he wondered what more did he need to do. He wasn't going out there and laying down for anybody, he was giving them a fight and he even won a bunch of those fights but when the fight mattered most he was just unable to pull it off.

Was he just struggling too much with his engagement and his upcoming child and starting a new life while also trying to balance his career?

Or maybe he needed to pay attention to his cousin. Victoria was a lot of things, but she was also a proven champion so there was something she had to be doing right.

But he couldn't go down her route, the arrogance, the denial, the narcissism, none of that was him. It might be a longer and more difficult route but he would not cast his honor aside for a chance at glory. Victoria may have the success, but what she didn't have was the respect, and Eddie sought to be a champion that people respected.

He could be mad at Kevin Carter for getting involved in his match at Into The Void. Alexander Raven sure was, and Alexander Raven had every reason to be. The truth is and Eddie knew it was that Alexander Raven had that match won. Kevin Carter or no Kevin Carter. He wasn't walking out of that match the victor and Eddie knew that.

But that loss, like so many others, wasn’t about fairness. It was about facing the truth. About looking in the mirror and accepting that something had to change. Not his values, not his work ethic, but something deeper. A fire, a hunger, a willingness to dig further when everything else had run dry.
Eddie Lyons wasn’t going to rewrite who he was just to win a match. But he was going to evolve. He was going to sharpen the edges, push himself past his limits, and come back stronger, smarter, and more relentless than ever before. He still believed you didn’t have to be a monster to be a champion—you just had to be willing to walk through hell with your head held high.
This week wasn’t about excuses. It wasn’t about what Kevin did, or what Raven almost had. It was about Eddie. His choices. His moment.

Because one thing was certain—stagnant or not, Eddie Lyons wasn’t done yet. And if anyone thought he was just going to fade away, they clearly didn’t know what kind of man he really was.

__________

it's late afternoon has the warm Nevada Sun streams through the half-drawn curtains in the home of Eddie Lyons and his fiancee Sabrina Woods. The sliding glass door means open a crack to let in a cool breeze. Muted SCW highlight reels play on the television as the faint smell of lemon bars baking in the oven fill the home with a pleasant aroma.

Eddie Lyons floats around lightly on the balls of his feet in the room, throwing slow jabs into the air not trying to work up a sweat just moving trying to reawaken some muscle memory.

“You better not be out there punching the couch again.” Sabrina's voice called from the kitchen.

“Of course not.” Eddie called back “Just some light training, trying to stay loose."

“Well as long as you don't foray into furniture abuse.” she says as she came into view with a sly grin on her face and a near eight month baby bump leading the way.

“Oh I'm not making that mistake again.” Eddie smirked back “But this is my first match back since Into The Void,  and I have Aiden Reynolds and Miles Kasey. Not exactly the easiest welcome back.”

“Well they're not there to kill you Eddie.” said Sabrina “Aiden and Miles are both respectable guys. The match between the three of you just screams big sportsmanship energy.”

“That's the thing.” Eddie replied sitting down, “They are good guys, they're talented, driven and just solid dudes all around. It makes it harder when it's people you like because you hesitate and second guess and that hesitation is what gets you beat.”

Sabrina moved to sit in her favorite recliner just across from Eddie.

“You're not some rookie trying to find his footing, Eddie Lyons.” she said  ]“You're a grown man with experience and a family about to start. You can face them with respect and still fight your ass off.”

“I just feel I need to prove something now." Eddie said "Something more, not just for me and I just for you anymore but for her. It just feels like everything matters more”

He motioned toward Sabrina's belly.

]"It does matter more." Sabrina agreed ]"But not just what happens in the ring, you're here and you show up and that already makes you more of a man than most. Our daughter isn't going to care if you lost to Miles Kasey or Aiden Reynolds, she's going to care if you were there to hold her when she needed you most.”

“And I will." Eddie nodded absorbing her words, “You're right as usual babe.”

“Of course I am.” Sabrina grinned.

They sat in silence for a moment just enjoying the quiet humming of their life amidst the scent of Sabrina's famous lemon bars, well they were famous to Eddie at least.

“Still crazy to think all this started over a towel.” Eddie said.

“You mean the Princess Cruise?” Sabrina replied.

“Yeah that moment when I saw you again.” he said “And you brought me my towel, you recognized me first. I thought you were just a fan for a  moment. Then I realized no, that's Sabrina Woods from high school!”

]“You know I always thought you were cute in high school.” said Sabrina, ]“But I was too shy to say anything, you coming from your big family and a lot of the kids knew your dad and uncle were former wrestlers you and your cousins were kind of a big deal. I always thought you were cooler than them though.”

“Really?” Eddie said eyebrow raised “Truth be told I always thought you were kind of cute back then, it's kind of why I wanted to be lab partners with you in chemistry. I guess I was kind of just too dumb to say anything.”

They both shared a laugh together.

“Well fate brought us back together.” she said "And now we have a baby on the way, and a wedding coming up. Now we get to enter the Princess Cruise as a couple, and I get to enter the Princess Cruise has a guest rather than the help.”

“That has to feel good.” said Eddie.

“Oh it's going to feel great.” said Sabrina “Spa treatments, a bed I don't have to make, and the chance to make that prissy little bitch Brianna cater to me hand and foot.”

“Brianna?” asked Eddie

“Yes Brianna.” Sabrina said “It was like she always had a vendetta against me. She tried to get me written up for giving a guest  two towels during in a heat wave. Said it was unprofessional and just always was on my case about everything. Like one time I made my lemon bars using my money and shared it with some guests. She tried to get me punished for it. Even though I was the the reason that deck didn't descend into chaos during spring break.”

“It sounds like she was jealous that you were cute and competent.” Eddie said.

“You charmer.” Sabrina smiled back.

“Just don't be too mean.” Eddie said

“Oh I'm going to be polite.” Sabrina replied with a grin “Politely pregnant.”

Eddie knew exactly what she meant. This Brianna was in for the ultimate amount of petty. And the way he kind of found it adorable and it helped to relieve some of the tension he had riding on his shoulders.

“Dang we're really getting married aren't we?” said Eddie.

“We are.” Sabrina smiled “It's not the big wedding I originally dreamed about, but I don't want to wait. I want to be married before she gets here, before Jordan is born. I want us to be a real family before it all changes.”

“It'll be perfect.” he said “Small and real and very much us.”

“Then next year once we're all settled, we'll do the big celebration bring the whole family a catered buffet, the works.” she said.

“Sounds like a plan.” Eddie said.

“I know my parents are going to be there.” she said “And my sister is going to be my maid of honor. Has anybody rsvp'd on your end and did you pick a best man?”

“Well my dad's coming of course. Cleo confirmed too.” said Eddie “She said she wasn't going to miss a chance to go on a free cruise, and Coach Kaiser said he's going to come and I'm thinking about asking Coach to be my best man.”

“Yeah I thought he might be your choice.” said Sabrina.

“I owe the man my career. He taught me everything.” said Eddie.

“What about any of your friends in SCW?” Sabrina asked.

“I sent out an open invite, so anybody who wants to be there can find their way. Maybe Miles and Carter will show up, or possibly Aiden.” said Eddie

“What about your cousins?” Sabrina said.

“You know I'd love to have more family there.” said Eddie “But I don't think those two are going to be interested. ”

“Yeah probably not…” Sabrina shrugged “Victoria would probably make a mess of things anyway.”

“Cleo would toss her ass overboard if she did.” Eddie replied with a grin

“That I’d love to see.” Sabrina laughed.

They said again quietly just for a beat before the sound of an oven timer chimed off.

“Lemon bars are done.” Sabrina said.

“You know that's like the third batch this week.” Eddie said.

“Careful don't question a hormonal woman's sacred snack ritual.” said Sabrina “And don't act like you don't love them. You ate the whole rack last time.”

“Well you got me there.” Eddie said with a smile.

“Jordan likes them too.” Sabrina  replied running her fingers across her belly.

Eddie followed as Sabrina made her way into the kitchen catching up to gently wrap his arms around her from behind. He could fill this as the beginning of a new legacy, one  not measured by title belts or win loss records but by love, trust and delicious lemon bars.

__________

The sound of heavy bags studying Echoes through the the otherwise quiet Lyons Den. Eddie Lyons is on round three of his speed bag as his coach leans against a nearby wall watching with his arms folded.  Eddie's punches come in clean with sharp hits and rhythm but there's still something off, hesitation between the bursts, too much thought in his wrists.

“Your hands are fast.” Coach Kaiser called out “But your head is slow tonight.”

“Yeah maybe I do have a a lot on my mind coach.” said Eddie giving one last slap to the bag before stepping back. “I figured you'd notice sooner or later.”

“Well I don't run this place with my ears closed.” said Kaiser “I know the sound of a distracted fighter.”

Eddie wipes his face with a towel and takes his seat out of nearby bench, his coach following suit.

“It's just a lot on my mind.” said Eddie “Weddings in a few weeks, baby's almost here and I got my match against Aiden and Miles to worry about.”

“Life.” said Kaiser shrugging.

“Yeah, I suppose so.” nodded Eddie.

“You know I remember when you first started truly training here.” said Coach Kaiser “You were pretty scrawny, mostly elbows and you couldn't throw a jab to save your life.”

“Oh I could throw one, it just never landed.” said Eddie.

“Or matter.” Kaiser grinned. “But you didn't quit you took beatings from everyone and learned to listen and now you're one of the hardest workers in this place.”

“Have you to thank for that Coach.” said Eddie “You're the one that teaches us without making us clones. You let us be us. Like Vincent, Victoria, and myself we couldn't be more different in style and attitude and well everything. But you got all of us to learn and improve and keep our fire without putting out what makes each of us unique.”

“Oh I think you gave me too much credit.” said Kaiser with a chuckle “Victoria and Vincent hardly listen to me anymore.”

“They still listen to you more than they listen to anyone else.” Eddie pointed out “And it's because you don't try to force us into a mold. You guide us, but you let us fall on our own and let us get it when we're ready. That takes more skill than many people realize.”

“Well thanks Eddie.” said Kaiser “But as far as Victoria and Vincent, I feel like I might have made monsters out of those two. But that's the job I guess, I don't believe in changing people to fit my system. I just want to sharpen what's there and they can figure out their own roads I'll just walk alongside them when they need it.”

“And you been walking alongside mine for a long time.” said Eddie.

“I've seen you fall.” Coach Kaiser said “And I've seen you climb. Through  it all you stay true to you. That's rare in this business.”

They sit in silence for a beat the air of respect emanating around them.

“I've been thinking a lot you know.” said Eddie “About what matters. The ring will always be part of my life, but it's not all of it anymore.”

“No it's not.” Coach Kaiser agreed “You're about to be a husband and a father, life's changing.”

“And I just wanted to do right” Eddie said “Not just for me but for them. For Sabrina and for Jordan.”

“Well, take it from someone who has been down that road.” said Coach Kaiser “You're on the right track.”

There's another moment of silence between them.

“Hey Coach.” he said “So about the wedding, you know I'm glad you're coming and Cleo is going to be there, and  my dad will be there and Sabrina's folks will be there and we extended an invite to the SCW roster but there's one thing I still need to do.”

“What's that?” Coach Kaiser asked.

“Well Sabrina's sister is going to stand up there as her maid of honor.” said Eddie
And….. I want you up there with me as my best man.”

“Really me?” Coach Kaiser asked.

“Yeah…” said Eddie “We're still keeping it small but Sabrina wants her sister to stand up there with her as a maid of honor and I'd like you to as my best man. It's still going to be the fairly small ceremony we discussed no other groomsmen or Bridesmaids. But you've been in my corner a long time you helped me figure out who I was when I felt lost and you made me better without making me someone else. That's more than coaching your family to me man. The twins may not like it but you've always been an honorary Lyons.”

“Of course I'll do it Eddie.” said Coach Kaiser as they embraced in a friendly hug.

“Thanks Coach.” Eddie said “Means a lot.”

“And don't worry anybody tries anything shady, I'll take care of them.” Coach Kaiser grinned.

“Oh I think we're good leaving that to Cleo.” said Eddie with a laugh “You know she ain't going to play that shit.”

“Yeah I imagine she won't.” said Coach Kaiser

They shared a laugh together and then after a few moments it was back to training and the sound of Eddie's fists studying against the speed bag.

__________

The cameras open on a suburban sidewalk at sunset the light hits the edges of the silhouette of Eddie Lyons has he walks slowly down the sidewalk and his ever casual jeans and hoodie.

The cameras follow him as he finds a low brick wall and takes a seat resting his elbows on his knees remaining quiet for a moment before looking at the camera with a tired but focused expression.

“You know I've been trying to keep quiet lately.” he said “Trying to stay focused, keep my head down and stay sharp. I mean I got a lot of things going on big things, I got a daughter on the way, I'm getting married in a few weeks, there's more for me to fight for than I ever had before."

He pauses taking in a breath of the evening air.

“But I still got this itch.” he said “This feeling in my gut it's like no matter how much I give, no matter how many steps forward I take, I still end up stuck in the same damn place. Reaching for something that always seems just out of reach.”

He exhales heavily and there's a sense of frustration within.

“The world keeps spinning and Eddie Lyons is stuck standing still.” he said shaking his head “And now I'm going up against Aiden Reynolds in Miles Kasey. Two guys who I respect more than most. Two guys who bust their ass just as much as I do, but respect doesn't mean I'm letting either of them walk out of that ring ahead of me.”

He looks up to the camera.

“Aiden…” he began his tone becoming more serious “I see you mate, and I see how pissed off you are about not getting your rematch for the roulette championship and honestly you have every right to be angry."

Eddie folds his arms.

“You lost that title to Logan Hunter.” Eddie said “But you were ready to bounce back get your rematch and just get it done, but some clown in the cape cashed in King for a Day and hijacked it. Now Guy with a cape is the champ and you’re on the sidelines watching the championship you earned earned slip further and further away.”

Eddie shrugs.

“I get it man, I do.” Eddie said “I even supported the call to give you your rematch, but if you want to look into history I technically never got mine either.”

There's a little more fire behind his voice.

“You beat me for that same title Aiden.” said Eddie “And I never got my one-on-one rematch. You know who got it? Alexander Raven, courtesy of my cousin Victoria. Raven beat you and I got thrown into some wild four way over the pool match instead of a one-on-one with an actual chance to redeem myself.”

He leans forward slightly with a grin on his face.

“So maybe we shouldn't be saying give Aiden his rematch..” he said “Maybe it should be give Eddie his rematch.”

With a slight laugh he winks at the camera.

“But see Aiden the difference between us is I'm not letting a chip on my shoulder blind me.” said Eddie “You're pissed off and rightfully so, but that anger is a dangerous lens and it can cloud your vision. It can make you take your eye off the ball and if you're going to come into this match swinging I'm at ghosts, I'm  going to knock you flat without hesitation.”

Eddie slowly stands up and starts walking down the sidewalk the camera following him slowly.

“I've been wondering what this Summer XXXtreme implications are that they've implied with this match.” said Eddie “We know J2H has the world title match, and Raven and Kevin Carter seem to be on a a path that will lead to a war for the Internet championship. So that leaves once again the over the pool match for the roulette championship.”

An exhale exits his lips.

“So guy with the Cape is the champ.” said Eddie ”And like it or not, rematch rules mean Logan probably should be too. That leaves a couple of spots open are we fighting for one of those because in all honesty Aiden should not have to fight for that rematch. But if that's what this is, if it is for a spot, then I'm not going to to worry about who got robbed of their rematch because I will have to keep my focused on the prize not for Aiden Reynolds but for Eddie Lyons.”

He keeps his pace slow and deliberate.


“And then there's Miles Kasey.”  Eddie continued, “I feel like you and I have been walking the same road for a while never quite reaching our true potential despite our best efforts."

He shrugs casually.

“Good hands that's what they like to call us.” Eddie said “Trusted and reliable. Put us in any match and we will deliver, but never quite win not when it really matters.”

There's a tightening to his voice now.

“Your husband became world champion.” he continued “Carter climbed the mountain and planted his flag and you stood by him every step of the way, and you should be proud of that to have that kind of bond someone else to rise with you and to push you forward.”

He pauses for a moment.

“Me?” Eddie said “Yeah I've got my lovely fiancee back home and she supports me to the fullest but when it comes the SCW locker room, I have to sit here and watch Victoria continue her reign of terror and watch Vincent get handed opportunities he hasn't earned while I'm stuck grinding waiting being patient and being respectful.”

He scoffed slightly clearly frustrated.

“Please tell me Miles, when does being the good guy pay off?” Eddie said “When do guys like us get rewarded for doing things the right way? Because to me it's starting to feel like never.”

Eddie sighed.

“I guess all we can do is keep fighting Miles.” Eddie said “We might be in the same boat, but I'm not looking to drown in it. One of us is going to rise again and eventually one of us will finally break that ceiling and I'm sorry Miles, but it's not going to be you and it's not going to be Aiden it's going to be Eddie FREAKING Lyons."

The fire in his voice is back.

“You can call this match whatever you want fellas.” Eddie said “You can say it's a stepping stone, , warm up before a big summer storm, but for me this matches a reckoning.I'm not fighting to keep pace anymore, and I'm not fighting to be a good hand I'm fighting to prove I belong in the big picture. I respect the hell out of both of you, but respect doesn't mean mercy and when Summer XXXtreme comes around the only name that matters will be Lyons."

He puts his hoodie over his head and says confidently into the camera as everything fades to black.
__________

For Eddie Lyons this wasn't just another match it was the culmination of pressure and long-held respect that was earned but never quite returned, and his burning need to finally rise above the static. He will stand across from two men he respects. Aidan Reynolds who is fueled by fury and robbed of a title rematch, and Miles Kasey another workhorse just looking for his big breakthrough.”

But Eddie had been waiting long enough he didn't want to hear about the good soldier or hear about next time he was tired of smiling through clenched teeth while others leapfrogged him


Summer XXXtreme is around the corner and whatever opportunity is on the line Eddie Lyons refuses to let history repeat itself he's done watching everyone else's story play out.

It's his turn to write the ending now and he's going to make it stick.

The sound of gloves hitting pads  echo throughout the tiny gym in Amsterdam. The place was cold and dingy, a far cry from the upscale utilities Eddie Lyons was used to at the Lyon's Den. But the lesser quality amenities didn't stop Eddie Lyons from being as laser focused as usual.

He had to bring his best for Kris Ryans. A Hall of Famer, a former world champion and a man who had handed Eddie what he considered one of the bigger losses of his career just last fall, and he still had yet to seek his redemption.

His fists hit the bag once, twice, and a third time in quick succession and that's when he heard the buzz of his cell phone as he looked down he saw the name of his friend Cleo Phillips. He pulled off his gloves and answered the phone.[/i]

“Cleo!” he said “What's up.”

“Hey..” her voice came with an alert but calm tone, “Don't freak out.”

That of course was the exact type of sentence that would make one want to do the exact opposite.

“What's wrong?” he asked “Is everything okay?”

“It's Sabrina…” she said quickly “Now she's aight' Eddie, but earlier today she took a bit of a tumble and twisted her ankle.”

Eddie nearly lost his grip on the phone, then a string of sentences came out of him at once.

“What how did that happen!”
“What about the baby”
“Is she at the hospital”
“Was she walking”
“Is the baby okay”
“Where is she”
“Cleo!! what the hell happened?”

“She's fine.” Cleo repeated in a firm yet calming tone, “We were in the living room and Koda ran by a little too excited and kind of clipped her leg. Sabrina lost her balance and went down she mostly landed on her side and not her stomach, the baby's fine and she didn't hit her head or anything, but we did go to urgent care to be safe.”

“You what?! Urgent Care?!” Eddie said in a panic, “I'm booking a red eye home, I'll be there tomorrow in the morning. Blast from the Past be damned. My bosses will just have to understand.”

He was already throwing things into his gym bag.

“Naw.” said Cleo “You ain't finna be doing nothing of the sort. She's okay. They checked everything, her ankles a little swollen but it's just a light sprain. She's resting at home. I'm here with her G, you ain't gotsta fly back. I gotchu you fam.”

“Can I talk to her?” Eddie asked.

“Absolutely.” said Cleo “I'll put her on, but just take a couple breaths all right? She don't want you to panic.”

Eddie took a deep breath has he heard the sound of the phone shifting hands and a softer voice came through.

“Hey Eddie Lyons” Sabrina said.

“Sabz…” Eddie said with an exhale “Are you okay what happened?”

“I'm fine babe.” she said with a gentle laugh “I really am. Koda got a little excited when Cleo came over and got the zoomies through the hallway. I wasn't paying attention and tripped right over him. It's really nothing.”

“Cleo said you went to urgent care, that's not nothing.” he said.

“Well we wanted to make sure everything was okay.” Sabrina said “Just in case, you know? For peace of mind. And everything came out okay,  the baby's fine the heartbeat is strong. and the doctor said I'll be sore for a couple days but it's minor just keep it wrapped and elevated.”

“I should be there with you…” Eddie said.

“You need to finish this tour.” Sabrina said “You've worked hard for this and you're in the semi-finals, don't let a little twisted ankle throw you off. Remember Cleo's here, she brought pizza and we're going to watch some movies. She wants me to watch something called Menace 2 Society.”

“Of course she picks that one.” said Eddie with a laugh “What are you making her watch in return?.”

“Happy Feet.” Sabrina replied

“Sounds like you all right.” Eddie replied he was starting to feel a bit more at ease now.

“So don't you even try leaving the tour and forfeiting Blast from the Past” Sabrina said “You're doing what you love, I'll be fine and I'll make sure to rest. Cleo is going to stay for a few days to keep me off my feet. You worry about taking down that Hall of Famer you have to face “

“I just hate being this far away when something happens.” Eddie said.

“I know.” said Sabrina “And I love that about you. But I also love how hard you work and how determined you are to reach your goals so you go out there and you win that tournament Eddie Lyons. I'll be eating ice cream, pizza and watching movies with Cleo.”

“What about the pickles and marshmallows?” Eddie asked.

“Oh yeah that's still my craving.” said Sabrina.

They both shared a laugh together.

“You're really okay then….?” Eddie asked needing to hear it one more time.

“Really really.” Sabrina replied

“Koda better be on his best behavior after this.” Eddie muttered.

[color=lavender“He already brought me his favorite toy as an apology.”[/color] she said amused, "Gave me the sad puppy look and everything. He did his best to say sorry.”

There was a short pause between the two.

“I love you.” Sabrina said “I miss you.”

“I love and miss you too.” Eddie said “Tell Cleo I said thank you.”

“I will.” said Sabrina “Now you go train, and you go in that tournament”.

“I'll do my best.” Eddie said.

“I know you will.” Sabrina replied.

“Facetime later tonight?” Eddie asked.

“Every night like you promised.” she reminded him “I'll even let you look at at my stupid foot.”

“All right.” Eddie chuckled “I'll see you then. Text me if anything feels off okay?”

“Deal.” Sabrina replied.

Eddie's stared at the phone for a moment after the call ended, the fire in his chest didn't feel like panic anymore it felt like purpose. Kris Ryans had beat him in the past and earned a world championship opportunity off it but Eddie wasn't walking into the ring carrying the weight of defeat.

He was going to walk into the ring with the strength of everything that mattered most, family, resilience, and love. This wasn't a match about any sort of payback, it was about proving that he had become a better fighter, a future father, a man not easily shaken even when the ground stumbled under him.

He pulled his gloves back out from his bag ready to finish what he started has the rhythmic sound of his fists hitting the bag echoed once again throughout the gym.

__________

It's an early evening has the cameras open on the old cobblestone streets of Amsterdam as a few bikers rattle pass in the background, we see Eddie Lyons beneath the flickering street lamp with the hoodie over his head zipped up halfway. Fight tape still on his wrist after a workout his breath Falls the air slightly as he looks dead into the camera calm and calculated.

“You ever hear the phrase time heals all wounds?” Eddie began “I used to believe that if I just worked hard enough, trained long enough, waited patiently, everything that stung would stop hurting.”

A dry laugh escapes his lips.

“But the truth is some wheels don't heal.” he said “They harden.”

He takes a slow step forward toward the camera.

“Last fall I stepped into the ring with Kris Ryans, he beat me.” Eddie continued “A guy who's been to the top lived there and probably set up a damn summer home off it. The man's done it all and that night he beat me, no excuses about it. Kris Ryan's was the better man that night."

There's no bitterness in his voice just honesty.

“I've been watching that match back more times than I care to admit.” He said  “Watching every mistake, every hesitation, every opening I didn't take because I second guessed myself. But that version of me? The one who stepped in the ring having all the talent in the world but not enough grit to get behind it?”

A short but heavy pause.

“That Eddie Lyons is gone.” he said as he leaned back against the street light “You see this trip to Amsterdam, this isn't some vacation or fun detour for me. This is business, and this time I'm not just showing up with potential. I'm bringing pressure I'm not just here to test myself against a Hall of Famer, this time I'm here to win."

There's a slight clench in his jaw.

“You earned everything they say about you Kris.” he said “Every accolade, every title, and every ounce of respect. I'll give you that you deserve it, but don't think for a second that your resume makes you untouchable.”

His eyes continue to stare down the barrel of the camera.

“Last time we fought I was too focused on wanting to be the guy that beat Finn Whelan,  last time we fought I had to drive but not the edge.” Eddie said “Maybe I respected you too much and myself not nearly enough.”

He shrugged and pulled his hoodie down.

“But I've grown teeth Kris.” he continued “I'm still Eddie Lyons but I don't pull my punches anymore. Not physically, not emotionally, not mentally. I've learned the difference between humility and hesitation, and I've learned how to trust my instincts. I've learned that respect doesn't mean surrender.”

He pauses letting someone the words linger in the air.

“I'm fighting for something a helluva lot bigger than my own pride now.” continued Eddie "I've got a family, and I've got a future. I've got a fiancee back home carrying our child who had to tell me not to panic when she took a little tumble because she knows how much this tournament matters to me."

Another short calculated pause.

“It's a lot of pressure, but pressure can either crush you or forge you.” Eddie continued “This isn't about proving I belong anymore, because I know I belong. Now I'm here to claim what's mine.”

Short pause as he catches his breath for a moment.

“You ever get sick of hearing people talk about you like you're not in the room?” he said “Like you're just “next up”, but never “the guy”? That's been my career in a nutshell for too long. People love to talk about the Lyons Den, love to talk about my cousins, my family my name like that's what defines me.”

He pauses with a firm head shake.

“Wrong.” he said firmly “I define me. I've bled  and broken myself to become more than just a last name. So maybe this match against you is a little personal Kris, not because of any grudge but because I refuse to let you be the one who closes another chapter in my story  and forces me to create a new one where Eddie Lyons once again almost gets there but doesn't quite reach it.”

He pushes away from the street light taking steps closer to the camera.

“If you're supposed to be a measuring stick then I'm the hammer.” said Eddie “I've got everything to fight for, a future with protecting a partner that believes in me even when I don't. A kid on the way who's going to grow up hearing stories about her father, and he won't be the man who almost did it but he will be the man who did.”

He finds a finger at the camera not aggressively, but assertively.

“You better bring your best Kris, because I'm bringing mine.” said Eddie “I'm not scared of losing anymore, I've already hit that wall. Now I know what I am on the other side of it, and I'm not just a second generation name. I'm a man with a mission and I don't stop till it's done and that mission is becoming World Heavyweight champion."

He lowers his hand.

“So we're going to have round two in Amsterdam.” said Eddie “But this time when the final bell rings, I'm not going to need the crowd to chant my name I don't even need the headlines I just need that look in your eyes the one that says damn he was better.”

He takes one final assertive step toward the camera.

“I'm not just chasing greatness anymore.” he said “I'm becoming it.”

He kept his eyes staring into the lens one last time calm confident and dangerous as it all faded to black.

________

Being a professional wrestler isn't always about the matches, feuds, and championships. You have to promote and that's how Eddie Lyons has found himself in the hot seat of Turnbuckle Talk, a popular European wrestling podcast. He's not here for a fight today, but for the media, the other half of his job.

He adjusts himself in his seat and places that provided headset on his head giving a nod to the shows hosts Tom Jacobs and Big Rob DeVries as the peppy intro music plays.

“Goedemiddag wrestling fans!” Jacobs began. “I'm Tom Jacobs as always with my tag team partner in podcasting Big Rob DeVries! Today we've got a very special guest from the roster of Sin City  Wrestling who you can catch currently on their Viking era tour, which will culminate in Paris at their Into The Void event."

“That's right Tom!” said Big Rob “With us today is none other than “Unbreakable” Eddie Lyons Thanks for taking the time with us today Eddie.”

“Not a problem at all.” said Eddie “Amsterdam has been very welcoming.”

“Have you been taken in the sights?”Big Rob asked “Or has it been all business since you've been here?”

“A little bit of both.” said Eddie “My fiancee told me to make sure I take time for myself and of course she wanted pictures of everything….Hi Sabrina.  I also discovered Stroopwafels? I think I'm saying that right. All I know is I ate six of them before I realized I should probably stop."

“I've seen Big Rob put down twelve of those.” Tom laughed.

“Well they are delicious.” said Big Rob with a grin.

“Couldn't agree more.” said Tom “I could probably eat about six myself.”

The three shared a laugh together.

“So Eddie, let's talk SCW.” Tom continued “The Blast From The Past tournament is nearing its end and you are one match away from the finals with Kris Ryans standing in your way. You win you move to the triple threat at Into The Void with J2H already locked in and most people are expecting Alexander Raven as well.

“Well let's give some credit to Bill Barnhart.” Eddie said “He could surprise the world and defeat Raven.”

“Given his record I see that as unlikely.” said Big Rob. “But I guess anything is possible.”

“You and Raven have some history, yeah?” said Tom rhetorically

“Yeah I've been in the dance with Raven before.” said Eddie "I know how dangerous he is. Him and Luna were one of the most dangerous pairings in SCW history. Raven knows how to pick his moments.But that said, if I do meet him in the finals alongside J2H it still won't change how I approach it.”

“J2H is already locked in.” Tom said “That's a name that carries some weight.”

“It definitely is.” said Eddie “I'm not going to sit here and call him the GOAT or anything but I do respect what he's done. He's got a resume that speaks for itself. I know what J2H can bring and I definitely don't take him lightly.”

“Any concerns that Alexander Raven and J2H might rekindle their old alliance should Raven make it to the finals?” asked Big Rob.

“That's definitely been on my mind.” said Eddie “They raised a lot of hell alongside Kevin Carter last fall. But then Raven disappeared for a while and now I don't know I really don't think Ravens worried about old alliances."

“Now for you to even make it to the finals you have to defeat Kris Ryans, a certified Hall of Famer.” said Tom, “How are you preparing for Kris?”

“Well, I'm not going to give away all my secrets.” said Eddie “But, in short the same way I always do just train hard try to stay focused on the task at hand and put my best foot forward it's all any of us can do. Kris has beaten me in the past but I've grown since then, and if he thinks he's facing the same Eddie Lyons he beat last fall then I'm going to walk all over him.”

“So whoever does end up winning at Into The Void, be it you, Kris Ryans, Alexander Raven, Bill Barnhart or J2H, they will go on to face the winner of Alex Jones and Helluva Bottom Carter." said Tom "So we have to ask if you win this tournament who would you rather face?"

There is no hesitation in Eddie's answer.

“Helluva Bottom Carter.” he said

“That was a quick response.” said Big Rob.

“Yeah and I mean no disrespect to Alex Jones.” said Eddie “He's the champion for a reason he's the man who beat Finn Whelan, and there's not many who can say that. But Carter's the guy I want. He's been on fire all year and he fights like every match is his last that's who I want to cross from me that's the kind of fight I came to SCW for.”

“Speaking of Finn he's out now with injury.” said Tom “I know you had a rivalry brewing with him, how does it feel now that he's gone?"

“You know, you never want to see a guy go out like that.” said Eddie “Finn and I had our issues, some of it was personal, but I always respected what he did in the ring. He pushed me in ways others never have. So I hope he recovers, gets healthy and finds his next thing soon. Whether it's back here in SCW, or wherever the roads take him next.”

“You've been gaining your own ground in SCW lately.” said Tom “Some big matches and consistent performances working your way in that world title orbit what's the difference lately.”

“I think maybe I stopped chasing everyone’s approval” said Eddie “Stopped worrying about who thought I belonged, and just decided I belong.  I show up, I work hard, and I fight smart. That's who I am and if that gets me to become this year's Blast from the Past winner then I know I'll truly have earned it.”

“There's never any smoke and mirrors with you.” said Tom “I have to say that's refreshing.”

“I mean if I want people to believe in me..” said Eddie “..I just got to be me right.?”

“Well said.” said Big Rob “Now it's time for my favorite part of the show the lightning round. I give you a name you give me the first word that comes to mind.”

“Let's do it.” said Eddie.

“Alex Jones.” said Big Rob.

“Champ.” said Eddie.

“J2H.” said Big Rob.

“Sharp.” said Eddie.

“Kris Ryans.” said Big Rob.

“Legend.” said Eddie.

“Victoria Lyons.” said Big Rob

“Family.” said Eddie.

“Jayden Harris.” said Big Rob.

“Rising.” said Eddie

“Helluva Bottom Carter.” said Big Rob.

“Willpower.” said Eddie.

“Alexandra Calaway.” said Big Rob

“Unrelenting.” said Eddie.

“Bella Madison.” said Big Rob

“Badass” Eddie

“And last one.” said Big Rob ‘Eddie Lyons.”

“Next.” said Eddie.

“And that concludes the lightning round!” said Big Rob with a jovial tone.

“Well before we let you go Eddie.” said Tom “Any last words for your fans listening around the world?”

“Thanks for riding with me.” said Eddie “We're not done yet, not even close we're going to finish this tournament the right way.”

“Well best of luck to you Eddie Lyons in your semi-final match.”  said Tom “And thanks again for joining us.”

“Yeah go tear it up out there bruv.” said Big Rob “And grab some more Stroopwaffles before you fly out.”

“Don't tempt me.” said Eddie.

The three of them shared a laugh again together has the peppy outro music played concluding the short interview.

_____

The cameras find Eddie Lyons alone in a quiet part of the city of Amsterdam looking over a canal reflecting the dim lights in the city skyline. Eddie's mind is far from the busy life around him dressed in his typical hoodie with the hood up hand resting in the pockets eyes focused in the middle of a thought that's been building for a long time after a moment he starts speaking steady but with a hint of frustration.

“Almost…” he said “That's the word that keeps following me around like a shadow. Always there no matter how far I run from it. I'm coming on my second year or so with this company. People know my name, I've got respect, I've earned that much. But let's be real respect it doesn't put titles around your waist.”

He exhales heavily.

“Every time I think I've got it, every time I’m about to cross that line and finally step into the light.” Eddie said “It slips away taken from me just like that.”

He snaps his fingers for effect.

“You think I don't hear the talk? The whispers?” Eddie said “You think I don't feel it when people say Eddie's almost there, he's got the skill and the drive he just needs one more push. Well I've been pushing for far too long now and that brings me to this match with Kris Ryans.”

He takes a moment to pause.

“I won't sit here and tell you I haven't respected what you've done in this business.” Eddie said “You've earned your place and built a legacy that nobody can take from you. But here's the thing I'm not out looking for respect anymore, because like I said respect doesn't win me championships, and respect doesn’t put me on top. Respect doesn't erase the almost from my story.”

He keeps a sharp gaze on the camera.

“You've made your mark Kris. You solidified your place in history.” Eddie continued “But I'm not here to prove I belong because I know I belong. Yet every time I lose. Every time I get that almost feeling. I wonder how much longer can I keep doing this, how much longer can I keep fighting just to be almost good enough?"

He exhales heavily again pausing for a moment.

“I'm tired of being that guy.” said Eddie “The guy who almost had it. The guy who almost broke through, the guy who fought but couldn't quite finish the job. That ends NOW."

There's a slight but intense quiver in his lip.

“And you Kris.” Eddie said “You're the next one standing in my way, the next hurdle in this race. While you have had your time in the sun, it's my turn now. This match isn’t about your legacy, this match is about me moving forward to take what's mine. I've fought blood and sacrifice too much to let this slip away I'm not asking for a moment I'm taking it."

Another short pause from Eddie

"You've been the face of this company. Carried it." said Eddie "I respect that, but the truth is legends fade and nothing lasts forever and when we step into that ring it won't be your legacy I'm focused on, it'll be my future. This is the moment I've been waiting for. I'm done with almost I'm done being the guy who comes so close but never quite makes it. This is the moment where Eddie Lyons steps out of the shadows and into the light."

He pauses for a beat.

“That goes for the rest of you listening as well.” said Eddie “When I meet you in the finals, J2H, Raven, maybe Bill. All of you need to know that I've been ready for this moment and when it's all over and I stand tall that's when my story will be written. Not as some guy who almost made it but as the guy who broke the cycle and proved that as long as you keep fighting you get what you earned.”

Another pause for a short beat once more.

“You're my last step before the finals Kris." said Eddie “There's no more almost this time. It's mine.”

The cameras linger on Eddie's face as he stares ahead with fire in his eyes.  Amsterdam just a blur behind him has his words linger in the air a declaration his moment is approaching and he's more than determined he's done waiting and he's certainly done with almost.

Fade to Black.

It was a casual day inside the home of Eddie Lyons and his now fiance Sabrina Woods she relaxed on the couch reading through a book while Eddie sat on a nearby lounge chair lost in the thoughts of his own mind.

The closer the chamber got the more he thought about it was he making the wrong entering this match with a new fiance and a baby on the way. Sabrina looked up from her book and shifted her gaze to him with a knowing look in her eyes.

“You're quiet today Eddie Lyons.” she said.

“Just thinking.” Eddie sighed.

“The chamber?” Sabrina asked rhetorically

“Yeah.” Eddie muttered

Marking her page in her book, Sabrina closed her book and set up to look at him.

“Tell me.” she said.

“What more is there to tell Sabz?” he said “I'm just going to be regurgitating the same thing to you at this point. How it's a war zone, and the structure doesn't care who you are, and it can break you mentally and physically. I have to walk in and just accept all of that.”

“Are you scared?” she asked

“Be an idiot if I wasn't.” he said. “At least a little.”

“Well, I know you're going to fight like hell.” Sabrina said “And no matter what happens I will always be in your corner. Win or lose I'm always going to be on your side Eddie Lyons.”

“I just want to get another shot at Finn.” he said “But I'm not the only one. Everyone in that chamber wants the same thing and they're all willing to bleed for it. I have to be willing to go further than the rest of them if I want to win.”

“And that's what you're afraid of.” said Sabrina.

Eddie gave her a curious look.

“You're not afraid of the match itself.” Sabrina said “You're afraid of what you might have to do to win.”

Eddie didn't answer right away, he sat next to her on the couch and side.

“You know me I don't like fighting dirty.” he said “But in the chamber there is no clean way out.”

“Well, I know you're going to go in there and fight your hardest like you always do and when you walk out still going to be the same Eddie Lyons that I fell in love with.” said Sabrina. “It's what I fell in love with you for, you don't give up on your goals and you fight as hard as you can to achieve them.”

“Yeah..” replied Eddie softly

“How about we change the subject a little bit?” Sabrina said “I've been thinking about the wedding.”

“Oh yeah?” Eddie asked intrigued.

“You know it's important to me that were married before the baby gets here.” Sabrina said “But at the same time, I don't want to be pregnant in my wedding dress I know it's silly but when we have our big day I want to be comfortable I don't want to look all pregnant and stuff you know.”

“Yeah that's fair.” said Eddie “So what did you have in mind.”

“I think we have a small private ceremony just us and our close family and then after the baby's here we do The big wedding the way we always imagined.” she said.

“That would make you happy?” Eddie asked

“It would.” said Sabrina.

“Then let's do it.” said Eddie.

“Really?” said Sabrina her face lighting up.

“Of course.” Eddie said “You're always in my corner and I'm always in yours we're here for each other no matter what.”

A shared kiss and the happy couple enjoyed each other's company for the remainder of the afternoon. The chamber still loomed ever closer, Eddie knew that whatever happened inside that structure when he walked back out Sabrina and their future together was what mattered most.

__________

The cameras open Eddie Lions stands in a dimly lit hallway tall and confident with his hands clasped behind his back in a quiet focus. When his eyes catch the camera he keeps it sharp gaze as he begins speaking.

“The elimination chamber looms ever closer for us fellas.” Eddie said “The stakes are real now it's not just about the championship for me, it's about proving something to myself about what I'm willing to face and what I'm willing to go through.”

He runs his fingers across the door in front of him.

“Behind this door..”  he said “Is  a challenge and every room behind it is another obstacle, another person, and another battle. And I'm ready for all of them, ready to show why I am one of the best in this company. To show  why I am going to become the next World Heavyweight Champion."

His hand wraps around the handle has he pushed it open

“And what's behind door number one?” he said has he stepped inside.

The camera cut to Eddie's stepping into the room where he immediately felt the temperature drop the walls were aligned with monitors flickering with moments from his past matches, ones he fought with everything he had only to come up short.

His wars with Peter Vaughn.

His loss of the Roulette Championship to Aiden Reynolds

The embarrassing loss to Bill Barnhart.

His defeat at the hands of Kris Ryans.

And then there it was Finn Whelan standing victorious  with the world championship as Eddie lay defeated in the background.

The distance sounds of cheers echoed throughout before twisting and warping into jeers and mocking voices.

"You're nothing but a fraud."

Eddie's hands clenched into a fist.

“So that's how you feel?” Eddie exhaled “That's what you really think is it Jayden? That I don't want a challenge? That I'm looking for the easy way out? Honestly, You really just sound like somebody pissed in your corn flakes or something.”

The monitors flickered to show the moment Jayden used to brand him a coward. Bea distracting the referee, Guy missing the tag to Jayden, the moment the tag got reversed and Eddie got the victory.

“You know the truth” Eddie said “Miles and I were caught up in our own little thing and I was still coming my own senses as well. By the time I was able to get to my feet,  Miles was still in the ring and I went for the victory like any competitor would.”

Eddie shook his head.

“I'm sorry it happened that way. Does that make you feel better?” said Eddie “But we can't go back and rewrite history all we can do is look to the future and that means the Elimination Chamber and that means me walking out as the number one Contender to the world championship. You seem to be letting a lot of anger consume you and that's a dangerous route to take because you could become so blinded by anger you can lose sight of the bigger goal.“

He could hear voices echoing again twisting taunting him.

"Doesn't it feel like failures all your meant for?"

“No it doesn't.” Eddie shook his head “I know I can beat Finn Whelan.  I came close in December and it was my irritating cousin who stuck her nose in and ruined it for me. I had that match won and the world knows it. I know exactly who I am Jayden and I don't need your validation to prove it.”

With a heavy breath he moved to a closed door in the room, one that led to the next and pushed it open.

“So who do we have next..” he said as he disappeared through the door.

The cameras cut to him entering the next room.

This room felt different no distorted memories no flickering images of failure but the walls were lined with mirrors who's reflections showed him as something less.

One version looking hesitant and holding back unwilling to take the next step another bruised and beaten reaching for a prize he'd never touch and even one where he wasn't there at all.

He could hear the voice of J2H echo in his head.

“The big difference with us too is the killer instinct and you just don't have it.”

“So that's what you think is it?” Eddie said “That I'm too soft that I don't have it in me to take something by the throat and rip it out.”

"Your sister she's got the right idea she doesn't give a fuck and makes that very clear…."

“First of all you daft idiot, Victoria is my cousin. Not my sister.”  he said “And yes I know exactly who she is. She'll do whatever it takes, step over people if she has to, but does that mean she's stronger than me or that she's the blueprint for what I should be?”

Eddie shook his head.

“That's where you've got it twisted J2H.”  he said “I don't need to be her, and I don't need to be you. You say I don't have that cutting edge? That I'm a workhorse for running in place, but if I didn't have it in me then why the fuck am I standing here?”

Suddenly the mirrors shattered the glass falling to the ground like rain. Eddie didn't flinch keeping his confident composure about him.

“You don't think I've had to fight for everything I've got?” Eddie said “You don't think I've had moments where I wanted to rip someone's throat out to get what I deserve I've been there J2H, I've had my fingers wrapped around the moment and watched it slip away and you know why?”

He paused for a moment.

“Because I did care…” he said “But here's the thing, you act like that's a weakness. Caring doesn't make me weaker it makes me dangerous, because I don't just fight for myself I fight for everyone who's been told they weren't good enough. I fight for every moment people said I wouldn't survive, and every time someone like you looked me in the eyes and told me I wasn't on their level I made damn sure they remembered my name.”

He took a step forward with intent.

“You don't think I have a killer instinct in me of my own?”  he said “Then you're not as smart as you think you are.”

With that Eddie steps to the door at the end of wrapping his hand around the knob and pushing it open as he stepped inside.

As the cameras catch Eddie in the next room the walls are bare with a sense of emptiness, a place where nothing really thrives yet it never really goes away.

“It's pretty funny you don't even have the decency to address me Bill.” Eddie said “I mean we all know your track record, how many times you failed you couldn't get it done and yet you still talk week after week like you've got all the answers.”

Eddie pauses letting the words linger about.

“You've lost more times than I can count Barnhart. So what are you even able to say to me anyway.?” said Eddie “That like you that I'm destined to continuously fail? You you didn't even respect me enough to acknowledge me when you had the chance, but what should I expect from someone who can't even handle his own failures?"

Eddie pauses and shakes his head.

“So honestly I'm not worried about you or your half-baked threats I'm here to prove myself and show why I deserve to be the next World Heavyweight Champion." said Eddie "You can choose to ignore me with your words but when the chamber comes you won't be able to avoid the possibility of me getting my hands on you and taking you out just like the the other five men I can walk out the number one contender and I don't need a damn thing from you to do it."

Eddie took a few steps to the next door.

“I guess I'll see you in the chamber Bill.” said Eddie “But at this point you're just lucky to be here, no more than background noise.”

With that he tightens his grip on the next door handle and pushes his way through.

As the cameras follow him into the next room he takes a deep breath.

The room itself is small and bare with smooth white walls and a plain wood floor with faint scratches here and there. A simple place clean and uncluttered only requiring the bare essentials. It has a calming sense of warmth about it.

“Respect huh…” Eddie said  “I get it Carter I really do the things you're saying they've got some truth to them but you're missing the point. The truth is I wasn't trying to discredit you and Miles, far from it you guys have something that I can't deny I'm built on loyalty and true love.”

Eddie paces around as he speaks.

“That bond, that love.”  he said “It's not just your strength, but it's your weakness as well. But that doesn't mean either of you are weak, just that love and loyalty can be a double-edged sword. You two love each other no doubt but sometimes when the stakes are this high that's not enough, and that doesn't make you weak persay, it makes you human and sometimes that's the problem."

Eddie's sighed and shrugged his shoulders

“Maybe I should have used better phrasing.” said Eddie “And that's on me but I wasn't trying to call you guys weak I'm just pointing out what I saw. It's not going to be easy for you to drop Miles on his head if you need to, and it's not going to be easy for him to drop you if he needs to. But you might have to, and if you hesitate someone else might take you out instead.”

Eddie pauses continuing to pace around.

“Your comparison to Victoria…” he said with a grin “Yeah I get it. We do have a lot in common I can't deny that. A competitive edge, we don't stop until we get what we want. But you know what? That's just called being a Lyons. I have it, Victoria has it, Vincent Jr is starting to show he has it as well. The difference between us is how we choose to use it.”

Eddie takes another short pause running his fingers through his hair.

“I'm not looking to go out there and maim you or Miles.” said Eddie “I really don't want to turn this into some bloody mess any more than you do. The problem is you and Miles are tough, tougher than most and I know it's going to take more. Everyday tactics won't cut it with the two of you so yeah, I might have to use everything at my disposal in that chamber to win and if I have to turn up the intensity then so be it just remember it's all in the spirit of competition.”

Eddie straightened up his posture maneuvering towards the next door.

“You want to see if I'm truly unbreakable? Then I guess we'll find out.”  He said as he pushed his way into the next room.

The next room almost mirrored the one previous to it but this one felt a little more aggressive there was an air of rebellion, that the previous room didn't have. As Eddie stepped forward into it the sound of his boots clicked on the concrete floor.

“Love…” Eddie mutters to himself “It really is a strength and a weakness isn't it Miles? But you seem to understand my words a little better than your partner.”

Eddie paused for a moment.

“I know you want this Miles.” said Eddie “And if I'm being honest I have my eyes on you just as you had them on me. You're the one I have my eyes on the most. You understand what's at stake and you understand you may have to do things you may find uncomfortable to win if you want to come out on top.”

Eddie looks around the room pacing slightly.

“We all know why we're here miles we're all after the same thing.” Eddie said “But the one who walks out of the chamber won't be you my friend. You might think you're the one who will tear Finn down, but in the end I'm the one that will come out on top.”

With that Eddie nods and reaches towards the next door handle pushing his way through and disappearing through the frame.

The next room is almost the more relaxed setting has the cameras catch Eddie walking into it there's some barbecue paraphernalia mismatched chairs and just peculiar items thrown about.

“Well this isn't quite what I expected…” said Eddie with a chuckle “But I guess this really is the spirit of you isn't it Vinnie? “

Eddie paused again for a moment

“You have your jokes…” Eddie said “But I promise you, when I meet you in that chamber it's going to be anything but a joke. So you can have your barbecues, your water guns, and your trophy collection. I'll say it again, at the elimination chamber all the jokes stop. It's about who really knows how to handle pressure and I hope you have more than just your unique sense of humor when it really counts.”

With a shrug and he pushes through through the next door.

Eddie finds himself in a minimalist room with pictures of him in action from various matches of his most defining moments.

When he won the Roulette Championship.

When he pinned Finn Whelan and he and Victoria won the mixed tag championships.

When he survived the gauntlet.

There is also photos of himself and his fiance Sabrina and their time together they hang just above an empty baby crib.

He walked over resting his hand on the crib rocking it slightly.

“I've been through hell in that ring.”  he said “But this match? It's different this could be it could be the end of everything.”

He looks up at a picture of him and Sabrina smiling together the one they took on the Princess Cruise where they first reconnected with each other.

“I don't know…” he said “What if something does go wrong? What if I end up hurt? Like really hurt? I know I run that risk every time I step in the ring, but the chances of it happening in this match are just a lot higher.”

He sighs, this is his weakness and he knows it.

“What if something happens and I can't walk?” he said “I won't even be able to run around with my kid. What would Sabrina do? She'd be the one pushing me around in a wheelchair taking care of me. I know she would do it without second thought too. But I don't want it to have to do that. I want to be there for her, and I want to be the one taking care of her.”

He sets the picture down inside the crib with a soft sigh and a shake of the head.

“No.” he said “I can't think like that. I can't be that guy. I can't let that happen. I'll fight through whatever comes my way, and get up no matter what I've been knocked down before and I always get back up.  This time won't be any different I'm winning this match for you Sabrina. For you and our child. No matter what, there's no other option."

A heavy exhale and he looks to one more door curiously and pushes through.

He finds himself in a grand empty throne room with towering stone walls looming around him. At the far end of the room there's a massive throne looming, as if it was waiting  for a ruler.”

With a smile, he walks slowly toward it.

“This is it…” Eddie said “All these years it's all been leading to this moment right here. The throne, being the man on top everything I've been fighting for it's finally going to be mine.”

He approaches the throne and reaches out to it but just has his hand is about to touch the arm of the throne he feels some unseen for stop him he can't quite reach it yet it's almost mocking him in a way.

“I get it..” he nods “It's not mine just yet is it? There's still Finn or maybe Alex Jones. Whomever it is I'll have to deal with them first.” Eddie said “I don't have to speak on my history with Finn, we've seen it. I know exactly how tough Finn is and I know what he's capable of. I might be mistaken but I believe I'm the only person in this match that has a pinfall victory over Finn.”

He pauses for a moment

“I haven't had too much of a chance to see what Alex Jones is made of first hand.” said Eddie “So if it's him, it'll be a whole new animal for me but I can't let either of them stand in my way no matter who it is I'll fight. I'll fight for everything and the world championship will be mine.  I will be able to sit on a throne of my own. Nothing and nobody is going to stop me.”

He takes a step back with one last look at the throne and turns away ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead has his footsteps echo across the concrete floor the scene fades out to black.

The house was warm and lived in it was no longer a place Eddie and Sabrina had just moved into but a place that was sharing their daily routines, their laughter, their messes and their most intimate moments. Long gone were the boxes, now replaced by shelves full of pictures of their families and themselves.

They both were curled up on the couch together, Sabrina wearing an SCW hoodie she had “borrowed” from Eddie several weeks ago. Eddie himself in one of his own Eddie Lyons t-shirts with the word “Unbreakable” across the chest.

“You know what I can't stop thinking about?” Eddie said with a grin.

“What's that?” Sabrina asked arching an eyebrow.

"That perfect slap you put on Victoria's face the other day." he said with a grin. “Top ten moments of my life easily. Her her head almost spun around completely.”

“Yeah well she was asking for it.” said Sabrina “I honestly surprised myself.”

“I think that's called your motherly instincts kicking in. Mama ain't going to take nobody talking about her child like that.” Eddie replied.

“Our child.” Sabrina smiled, kissing him on the cheek.

“Yeah, our child.” Eddie replied with a smile opening his arm around her as they cuddled tighter.

“You're nervous aren't you.?” Sabrina said looking up at him.

Eddie exhaled heavily.

“It's just the chamber draws ever closer.” Eddie continued and “Now it's not just six men, it's seven. Seven guys who all have something to prove.”

“Well I don't know these other guys.” said Sabrina “But from where I sit I don't think anybody wants this more or deserves it more than you Eddie Lyons.”

"It's more of the brutality of the chamber." Eddie said his voice lowering. “It's brutal, it'll take more than skill, it's going to take luck and survival and I won't be coming out the same Eddie Lyons that I am now. The chamber is something that changes a man.”

“It might change you some.” said Sabrina “But it won't break you  You’ve already proven more than you realize Eddie Lyons.  You’re someone who doesn't give up. Most importantly when you do fall you stand on your own business, no excuses. You pick yourself up, dust yourself off and make yourself better next time.”

“I know.” said Eddie “But it seems like I always get right there, right to the edge of a big win and it slips through my fingers every time.”

“Well don't forget you already have the biggest win of all “ she smiled  moving his hand across her belly. “I know whatever happens I'll be proud of you and our daughter will grow up to be proud of you.”

“Daughter?” said Eddie raising an eyebrow.

“I guess I think it's a girl.” Sabrina said with a shrug. “Won't know officially for a few more weeks.”

“Well boy, girl.” said Eddie “It doesn't matter whatever our child grows up to be, it will be their decision and we will love them either way.”

“Absolutely.” Sabrina agreed.

“Anyway there's still this tag match I got before the chamber.” said Eddie. “I haven't got too much of a read on my partner Señor Vinny yet but he didn't qualify for the chamber by accident and he's a former world champion and Internet Champion so I have good faith that he knows his stuff.”

“Well I hope he's reliable.” said Sabrina, “Otherwise you'll take care of him in the chamber. Get back must be had right?”

“Get back?” said Eddie with an eyebrow raised, “You learn that from Cleo?”

“She may have taught me some cool phrases.” Sabrina said with a grin.

"But as long as he pulls his own weight, we'll be fine" said Eddie “Because our opponents are no slouches  Miles and Jayden both want to be the world champion honestly probably just as much as I do and either one of them can get the job done.”

“But they won't.” said Sabrina “Because you will.”

“Yeah.” said Eddie “You're damn right about that.”

They sat there together for a while enjoying the quiet before finally deciding to find something to watch together on Netflix as they relaxed into their evening enjoying their time together before Eddie had to fly out to San Francisco for the weekend.

__________

The camera opens on a Las Vegas evening catching Eddie Lyons in his new home sitting on his back patio in a comfy patio chair wearing a Lyons Den hoodie and sweatpants. He lets the camera linger on him for a moment before speaking.

“We're just a few weeks out from the Elimination Chamber.” Eddie began “But first at Climax Control, we get to have a little sneak preview when I team with Senor Vinny against Miles Kasey and Jayden Harris before we all enter the chamber seeking the tear one another apart.”

Eddie pauses for a moment.

“I guess the big question is can any of us even trust each other for one night?” Eddie continued “Can Miles and Jayden put aside their own Ambitions to try to take out Vinny and myself can Vinny and I do the same to try to take them out that's the story that's going to get pushed can they coexist and it's honestly a fair question.”

There's another short pause as Eddie leans forward slightly.

“I'll lay this out right now.” said Eddie “At Climax Control, Señor Vinny? You're my amigo, my compadre ,and I will do my part and stand beside you as your partner for the evening. I'll fight beside you like your mi familia because that's the only way I know how to do this.  We're a team for the night then we're a team and I'm all in amigo.”

He pauses as a confident grin goes on his face.

“But the second the match ends.” Eddie said “That's where the partnership ends. No longer are you my amigo, you're just somebody standing in my way of the world Heavyweight Championship.”

He lets his words linger in the air before continuing.

“But amigo, we'll deal with that when the time comes.” said Eddie “For now we should focus on the people across from us, Miles Kasey and Jayden Harris. Two guys I honestly respect the hell out of.”

Eddie's shifts slightly in his chair before continuing.

“I know what you're about Miles. You've got heart, you've got passion and you fight for the people who love you.” said Eddie “You and Carter have built something beautiful and I respect that too. But all respect aside, I'm not pulling any punches not this week, not in the chamber, and I'd be a fool to not expect the same from you.”

That trademark intensity flashes in Eddie's eyes.

“Then there's Jayden Harris.” Eddie said. “A man looking to carve his own path while carrying his father's name. I know that game my friend, and it's heavy. People will look at your last name before they even see your work. People will be so quick to judge you off your dad's sins or his successes.”

Eddie looks to the camera with a respectful nod.

“Being second generation.” said Eddie “Both of us know about the advantages and disadvantages and you and I both know that we're not fighting for either of our father's legacies, we're fighting for our own and we're both more than willing to earn our respect the hard way.”

Eddie takes another short pause.

“This tag match is not about titles or wins or losses.“ said Eddie “It's about statements and showing the world and each other exactly who they're walking into that chamber with. That includes Bill Barnhart, J2H and HBC as well. I honestly don't know how the two of you are going to get through this one miles but that's going to be for the two of you to figure out “

Eddie shakes his head with a slight exhale.

“I just hope all of you know that I'm not walking in that chamber to be the nice guy or the future star. I'm walking into take what's mine with no excuses, no backing down. I've tasted gold and had it ripped from me and I've been a runner up and the guy who almost got it.” said Eddie. “This time I will go all the way and I will go on to become the World Heavyweight Champion. This time you need to bet on Eddie Lyons. “

Eddie places his hand on his leaning closer to the camera.

“So Miles, Jayden, and even you Vinny bring your best at Climax Control. Let's give everyone a little preview of what's to come.” Eddie continued “When it's over I'll shake hands with whoever wants to shake hands, but when we get to the chamber and that door closes, there's no friends no partners only survival.”

He keeps his confident gaze on the camera.

“If any of you think nice guy Eddie can't be ruthless.” he grinned, "Go ahead and keep thinking that. I'll be happy to surprise you when I lay you out in the chamber and walk out with the opportunity to face the World Heavyweight Champion.”

He stands up and turns back to the house, pauses and looks back to the camera.

“I'll see you at Climax Control my friends.”  said Eddie "Let's find out who makes the first statement because I'll tell you now I'm tired of being the favorite runner-up. I'm ready to take it all.”

With that he walks back into his home as the camera fades to black.

__________

Life was changing fast for Eddie Lyons, a baby on the way, a new home and even more he still had planned for he and Sabrina's future.  He wanted to make sure Sabrina had all the comforts that she needed, especially as she had entered her second trimester and the coming months were going to be very important. SCW wasn't going to slow down for him either, meaning other than when they operated from home base in Vegas,  he would have to fly to whatever city they were in every weekend.

But he wouldn't change a thing he loved Sabrina and he was looking forward to meeting their child more and more each day. But it was those weekends that he was gone and some other City that he wanted her to have some sort of company and that's how he found himself in the living room with a happy Golden Retriever puppy.


He could hear her car pull into the driveway and got ready.

“All right little buddy.” he said “Looking into the puppies eyes let's make a good first impression.”

With a happy bark the puppy licked Eddie in his face as though he understood.

“Eddie?” he heard Sabrina call as she shut the front door behind her “You home?”

“I'm in here!” he called from the living room, “I have a surprise for you!”

“Is it a machine that makes me not have to pee every five minutes?” she said, her voice drawing closer.

As she rounded the corner he held out the puppy to her and for a moment you could hear a pin drop.

“Eddie…” she said with a smile.

“Thought you could use some company when I'm on the road.” he said. "Plus every kid should grow up with a good dog right?”

The puppy started to wriggle in Eddie's hand wagging his tail as Sabrina stepped closer scooping him into her own. Eddie laughed as the puppy covered her face with sloppy kisses.

“He's adorable.” said Sabrina taking a seat setting the puppy into her lap. “Does he have a name?”

“No.” said Eddie “Figured I'd let you decide on that one.”

Sabrina look down thoughtfully at the puppy for a moment and then look back up at Eddie.

“Koda.” she said

“Koda?” Eddie replied.

“Yeah.” she said “It's cute and has a strong ring to it. Koda Lyons I like it.”

“Well what do you think Koda?” Eddie said looking at the puppy in her lap.

Koda barked and happily wagged his tail.

“I think he likes it.” Sabrina smiled.

They sat there together for some time watching Koda play and discover new things, the sofa, various chairs, cabinets and carpets and even had to stop him from almost destroying one of the baby books.

“Thank you Eddie Lyons.” Sabrina said, resting her head on his shoulder. “I'm glad I'm going to have this little guy hanging out with me watching when you win the elimination chamber.”

“You are my world now Sabrina.” said Eddie “I want to make sure you have everything you need and want, you and our child.”

“It's really starting to feel real isn't it?” Sabrina said “We have a home, a puppy, and before we know it our child will be here and our family will be complete and we can begin to make memories together full of love and laughter.”

“Absolutely.” said Eddie with a smile.

“Just don't forget to take time for yourself.” Sabrina said "You've been doing so much for me don't forget to take care of Eddie Lyons.”

"Well you are important to me." Eddie said.

“And you to me.” said Sabrina “That's why I want you to try and keep your focus these next few weeks on your Elimination Chamber match. I know how important it is to you and you support me and I'm going to support you”

“I appreciate that Sabrina.” said Eddie kissing her softly on the forehead when suddenly Koda jumped in between them and began licking Sabrina in the face.

“Jealous already buddy?” said Eddie with a smile. “Well I'm sorry but you're going to have to share her little dude.”

“Careful.” said Sabrina “He just might steal me away.”

They laughed together in the afternoon stretched on like that as the two relaxed inside their home Eddie's little bubble I want love comfort and safety.

And yet he still had one final surprise for Sabrina….

__________

This soft crackle of the fire illuminating the scene is heard as the cameras open on Eddie Lyons sitting in an Adirondack chair next to a modest stone fire pit. He's dressed casually in his usual Jean sneakers t-shirt and Hoodie combo but his expression is anything but relaxed.

“You ever just sit by the fire and think?” said Eddie “I'm not talking about the philosophical deep meaning of life kind of stuff. Just who you are, where you're at, and what comes next that's kind of been my vibe ever since this chamber match was announced.”

There's sort of a mixed vibe of determination and a man relaxing at home as Eddie Lyons continues.

“It's going to be my first chamber you know.” [/color]said Eddie “And if I said I wasn't constantly thinking about that I'd be lying. But I'm not afraid, I know what it does to people and I know it's reputation. Shortened careers, broken bodies, rewritten legacies. But what I feel isn't fear, it's hunger.  The hunger to prove that when it comes to the best in this business my name deserves to be among the top of the list.”

The expression on his face hardens slightly.

“But to do that I need to step in the ring with six other guys who want to do the exact same thing.” said Eddie “And I have respect for each person that's going to enter that chamber, but that does not mean I see them as unbeatable they're just rivals equals and people standing in my way.”

He keeps his tongue sharp and steady.

“For me this match is about way more than winning the chamber and punching a ticket to a world title shot.” Eddie continued "It's about who holds that title when I get there and that's Finn Whelan.”[/i][/b]

Eddie pauses for a moment with a sharp exhale.

“I need Finn to be the world champion when this is over.” said Eddie “Because for me it's not just about gold, it's about closure and righting the wrong that's been eating at me since December. My Moment was stolen from me and I won't right that wrong by defeating Alex Jones, I need to beat Finn Whelan.”

One can almost see the fire flickering in his eyes although it could just be a reflection of the pit in front of him.

“And I know I could just focus on winning the chamber and then taking the title whether it be Finn or Alex.” said Eddie “But somehow it'll feel slightly hollow if it's not Finn. For my story to feel truly complete I need to take the championship from Finn Whelan.”

Eddie stands up and begins to pace a slow circle around the pit.

“But that's the catch I guess because if Finn does lose to Alex Jones then that's who I'll be facing when I win the chamber.” said Eddie “And if it's Alex Jones, so be it I'll take the title from him because that's what I'm coming to do but I have to be honest it just won't taste the same.”

He stops and looks into the camera.

“But here I am talking about the chamber.” said Eddie “And before I can even get into any of that there's this week and our tag match me and Vinnie taking on Miles and Jayden.”

Eddie takes a short pause.

“Miles might be the one guy who wants Finn just as much as I do.” said Eddie “His reasoning is more personal of course. But if Miles wants to get to Finn, he's going to have to go through me and I'm going to give him and Jayden both a preview of just what that means.”

Eddie gets a confident nod and smirk at the camera has he sits back into his chair.

“You should pay attention to Vinnie.”  said Eddie “We're a team tonight and and I'll be your amigo for the evening, but I told you before at the chamber you're just another one in my way.”

Eddie's posture becomes more relaxed as he leans back into his chair.

“It's going to be a hell of a war in a few weeks boys.” said Eddie, “I just hope you all come ready because I am.”

With that the camera lingers on Eddie and the flickering fire pit as the scene ultimately fades out to black.

It could be said that Eddie Lyons and Finn Whelan were two sides of the same coin, warriors forged in fire whose paths seemed destined to clash. Their rivalry had been born out of ambition rather than hatred, a relentless drive to be the one on top of the mountain.

The two men carry themselves as Warriors both unyielding in their pursuit of glory but different in how they carried their burdens. Finn was methodical and calculating, a veteran who wore his dominance like armor. Eddie was the beacon of hope and light, fighting with heart and passion, showing resilience even in the face of adversity.

Finn had been the unshakable pillar of SCW for over a year, never being pinned or submitted. But in the span of one unforgettable moment Eddie did the unthinkable. He pinned Finn Whelan in the middle of the ring and won the Mixed Tag Team Championships.

It was that singular victory that was like a crack in an unbreakable wall, proof that Finn wasn't invincible. Proof that he could be beaten and Eddie Lyons had done it. Finn could blame Miles Kasey all he wanted, but the truth was Eddie Lyons had beaten him.  Eddie had proven he could go to the distance against a man many considered untouchable. That victory was a bit of vindication for Eddie, a step closer to proving that he was the man destined to take the World Heavyweight Championship from Finn Whelan.

Then came the loss of the mixed tag team titles, and that  stung Eddie deeply,  not because of pride but because he did feel he and Victoria were potentially building something special as crazy as that sounded. It was a harsh reminder of how fleeting success could be sometimes. The Wolves of Gheimhridh won back tag titles and Eddie could do nothing but admit they deserved it. Victoria was once again taken to her breaking point by Kayla. Not pinned, not submitted but as Finn made clear during their meeting on Climax Control, a loss was still a loss. The Wolves had proven why they were one of the best teams in the history of the division.

However, it still remains true that Finn has not pinned Eddie,  or made Eddie submit. For now the chapter of mixed Tag Team Championships are closed as the World Heavyweight Championship looms as the ultimate battlefield between Eddie and Finn. A chance for Eddie to cement his legacy, and a chance for Finn to prove why he is the dominant champion he has been for nearly a year now.

Heart vs. dominance and only one man can walk away as this Sin City wrestling World Heavyweight Champion.[/i]

___________

Eddie had decided to return home for his workout. He needed some peace and quiet away from the busy bustle of The Lyons Den. There was a new Talent initiative going on and sometimes things could just get a little hectic at the Family School.

The hum of the heater made it apparent that his father had still not properly fixed it but that hum was part of what made home home to Eddie. The gym acted as a sanctuary to Eddie. No cameras, No fans, no rivals. Just him and the honest labor that had carried him through his career to this point.

He tightened his grip on the bar of the dumbbells, the chalk dust clinging to his hands that were calloused and dirty.

Up.
Down.
Up.
Down.

The heaviness of the weights were nothing compared to the heaviness of the burdens on his mind. The burden of losing the mixed Tag Team Championships still lingering.  The burden of being an expecting father and the burden of a world championship match against one of the best to ever do it coming up also weighing on his mind.

But he was unbreakable and his burdens were not going to break him. He continued to power through his sets straining his muscles with every rep. He could hear the sound of his own heartbeat. Amid all the burdens, only one name on his mind truly mattered right now.

Finn Whelan.

The incident on Climax Control had been Victoria's fault.  He didn't want her to come out and do what she did and hit Finn with the low blow, but she didn't listen and they both ended up falling victim to the wolves.

“Fucking Victoria…” he muttered to himself knowing somewhere in the back of his mind that he should have known better. He didn't have the time to worry about Victoria now though he had to focus on Finn and the World Heavyweight Championship.

Finn Whelan wasn't just anyone and Eddie knew it. He was the guy who was never pinned or submitted in a year by anybody.

Except Eddie.

That moment when he pinned  Finn clean in the middle of the ring was still vivid in his memory. It showed a crack in the armor of Finn Whelan, a reminder that he was not  untouchable and he was not invincible and now it was time for Eddie to prove that it wasn't a fluke.

The Wolves were back on top again and riding the momentum of winning back the mixed Tag Team Championships. Eddie knew that Finn would use that as a mental edge. Likely taunting him about losing the belts and asking what makes him think he can win the World Championship if he couldn't even keep the tag championships.

Eddie exhaled as he curled a pair of dumbbells.

He thought about Sabrina for a moment and her face lit up and she told him the news of her pregnancy. That memory just for a moment somehow made the weights seem lighter.

He wasn't just fighting for himself anymore every punch he threw every kick everybody slam was for her for their future child and for the future he was building for them.

That meant a lot he had to get his own place. A home for Sabrina and his child to stay in while he was on the road and he had to get a ring because he didn't want his child to be born to an unmarried couple.

I wasn't about revenge or redemption or even proving that you still have it. It wasn't even about proving Finn wrong or silencing any of Eddie's doubters. It was now about showing his future child that no matter how many times you get knocked, down no matter how many times you get hit, you keep fighting, you push through no matter how heavy the weight may be.

With another exhale Eddie continued to work on his curls. The World Heavyweight Championship was within his reach, and when the bell rang on December 22nd Eddie Lyons was going to be ready, and Eddie Lyons was going to take the championship from Finn Whelan.

__________

The cameras open on a dimly lit room, a single spotlight shining in the center. The camera stays steady and focus as Eddie Lyons steps in the view, dressed simply in jeans, sneakers and a halfway zipped up SCW hoodie. The camera's linger for a moment as he speaks.


“Finn Whelan, the man, the myth, the champion. For the past year you've stood atop this company as an untouchable force climbing to the very peak of the business.” Eddie began intensity and determination showing in his voice. “Every other challenger that came for you from Miles Kasey to Kris Ryans to Michael Harris. You let all of them know where their place is. That your throne is as far above them as it can possibly be but on December 22nd that is all about to change “

He remains calm as he speaks, but with a fire behind his words as he takes a step forward, his eyes burning with more than confidence. This is a man who's almost certain that the end of Finn's reign is coming at his hand.

“You took back Mixed Tag Team Championships.” said Eddie, “That I will not take from you. But now now I have nothing to lose Finn. I have no championship and if you beat me, then what? I'm just another challenger who lost to Finn Whelan.  I'm sure some will even expect it, but I'm ready to break expectations."

Eddie pauses for a moment with a slight shake of the head as a short laugh exits his lips.

“You've been the world champion for so long that it's practically part of your identity,” said Eddie. “You've dispatched challenger after challenger time and time again like clockwork. You surrounded yourself in so much success that you think it's something that can't be taken away “

A confident grin grows on Eddie's face.

“But someone did, didn't they?” he said “If even only for a moment, those mixed tag titles were taken from you, and who did it? Not some team that's been working together for years and years but a random thrown together team of two family members that struggle to get along. You almost didn't get them back either. Can you imagine what we could have done if Victoria and I were able to be on the same page?”

Eddie shrugs, At the end of the day they did still lose the mixed tag titles but he couldn't worry about that anymore because the world championship was a much bigger opportunity.

“The problem is Finn.” said Eddie. "You act like you've won this match before it even happened. You've already dismissed me and that's where you made your mistake. You've let your dominance cloud your vision and you've let yourself believe that no one is close to even being able to challenge you.”

He pauses again to let the words settle in on the listener's ears.

“You can wear that smug expression on your face all you want.” Eddie continued. “And you can go on and talk about how no one's come close to stopping you. But that's the thing I'm not like everyone else, I’m the guy who pinned you. The guy who did what nobody else thought was possible I took you down in the ring and I won. Sure others like Kris Ryans have beat you in the past, but we all know that you're a different Finn Whelan today. You said as much yourself. You're the best Finn Whelan you've ever been and the Finn of today would run circles around the Finn that lost to Kris Ryans.”

Eddie exhales heavily the camera stays steady on him as the light covers him with its glow.

"You become comfortable at the top Finn. You've gotten used to it and that's led to complacency.” said Eddie “And that's where you've gone wrong you've gotten complacent and you've let your guard down. You've started to believe that your time as Champion is permanent.”

Another grin grows on Eddie's face.

“But nothing in this business is permanent, Finn. Legacies, Champions, Empires. They all meet their end.” Eddie said. ”And come December 22nd you're going to learn this the hard way, because I'm not just another opponent  I'm the man that's going to end your reign, take your World Heavyweight Championship and make it mine.”

Eddie pauses again the words he's speaking, filling himself with confidence.

“I understand the pressure and the weight to carry a championship.” said Eddie “But I also know what it feels like when it's ripped from you. That's what you're going to feel Finn. You're going to feel loss and when you do you'll finally understand that the one thing that's been holding you up is nothing but an illusion. There will be no more hiding behind your dominance and no more leaning on this idea that you're untouchable. It will be you and me and when the dust settles I will be the one with the World Heavyweight Championship.”

Eddie's fist clenches tightly, an undeniable fire growing in his eyes looking more and more determined as he continues speaking.

"You will see Finn. The end of your reign is inevitable, because no harder many walls you build, no matter how many challengers you crush.” He said, “When everything's all said and done I am your reckoning and there's nothing you can do to stop it. Be prepared Finn, be prepared to lose that championship and be prepared to HEAR ME ROAR.”

Keeping his confident gaze on the camera it slowly fades out, the spotlight dissipates and everything fades to black.

_________

It was late afternoon at The Lyons Den and the gym was as busy as ever with Coach Kaiser's new talent initiative. Eddie Lyons sat on the edge of one the rings, his expression one of frustration with his hands stuffed in the pockets of his hoodie as he watched Victoria finish up a set on a punching bag.

“You going to say something or just sit there staring at me?” said Victoria delivered another punch to the bag.

“You know exactly what I want to talk about.” said Eddie, the annoyance clear in his tone.

Victoria rolled her eyes and exhaled.

“Oh you're still mad about what happened on Climax Control.” said Victoria. “Well news flash Eddie you called out Finn Whelan and he reminded you who the hell he was. I just was trying to help you even the playing field.”

“Even the playing field?!” Eddie replied. “No you embarrassed me Vicks. That was supposed to be a moment between me and Finn. We were both to say our piece and then I was going to offer a handshake but you messed it all up when I asked you to stay in the back and not get involved. I don't need you messing with my credibility or my reputation.”

"Reputation?! Credibility?!" Victoria said stepping away from the bag. "That's what you're worried about? Not the fact that Finn and Kayla were likely seconds away from blindsiding you the moment you let your guard down? I just struck first. You're so caught up with being honorable that you're forgetting what's actually at stake here.”

“They weren't going to do a damn thing and you know it.” said Eddie, “You did that because you wanted to, without any regard for what I wanted. We're supposed to be a team here, remember?”

“And what do you think I was out there doing?” said Victoria “I was helping you. I gave you an opportunity to weaken Finn before your match to help you become the World Heavyweight Champion because we are a team and we should be helping each other! Again think about what's at stake here Eddie!”

“I know exactly what's at stake here!” Eddie retorted. “But I don't want or need you interfering and making it look like I need any type of backup. If I'm going to beat Finn and become the World Heavyweight Champion it's going to be because I earned it not because my cousin decided to play hitwoman for me.”

“Oh come on Eddie.” Victoria said rolling her eyes.  “You act like this is some fairy tale where the knight in shining armor wins because he's the better man. But that's not how it  works. You have to be willing to get your hands dirty  In case you haven't noticed one of us is still a champion and I've held Rue for a while now. Maybe you should listen to the champion between us.”

“You can be whatever type of champion you want to be.” said Eddie “But this is my match, and this is my championship to win. I'm going to do it my way. I know it's an uphill battle, but I like it that way and when I do win I know I'll have done it the right way.”

“Do you really think Finn cares about honor?” said Victoria. “Will the crowd remember how you won as long as you won? The only thing that matters is holding that championship at the end of the night but you're so stubborn that you'd rather lose with pride than when with a little strategy.”

“You don't get it Vicks.” said Eddie. "I'm not like you, I don't need shortcuts and I certainly don't need you making decisions for me. If I can't beat Finn on my own then I don't deserve to be champion.”

“If you think Finn is going to give you that chance you're delusional.” said Victoria “You're not just fighting Finn, you're fighting everything he's built around himself and if you're not willing to bend the rules he will break you.”

“Then let him try.” said Eddie “Because I'm not bending. Not for Finn, not for you, not for anybody. This is my fight Vicks and I need you to stay out of it.”

There was a moment of silence with the tension between them thick enough to cut with a knife. They both stared at each other jaws clenched until finally Victoria stepped back shaking her head.

“You're making a mistake Eddie.” she said “You're walking into a war with one hand tied behind your back and when Finn proves me right don't say I didn't tell you so.”

“I won't need to.” said Eddie, "Because I'm walking out as the World Champion and I'm doing it my way.”

Victoria shook her head and grabbed her nearby Bombshell Roulette Championship and slung it over her shoulder.

“Fine, do it your way.” Victoria said “But like I told you, don't say I didn't warn you….partner."

Without another word she turned and walked away out of the gym and out of sight leaving Eddie alone he sat there for a moment before slowly rolling back into the ring feeling his resolve hardening.

He would win the World Heavyweight Championship, but he would do it his way and he would do it on his terms with Honor before Glory.
__________

The camera finds Eddie Lyons inside of The Lyons Den, the family training school started by his late uncle, Victoria's father. The walls are adorned with championships and photos of the superstars of the past Lyons Den including Eddie's father Ray Lyons, Victoria's father Vincent Lyons Sr, and their other Uncle Zachary Lyons who might possibly have more kids than Nick Cannon scattered about the world giving his lifestyle as a young wrestler. Among them was also coach Kaiser and other names of stars that have came through,  even Finn's ex wife Aaron Asphyxia had some images of her as a young girl.

Eddie looked at it all with pride this is something that his uncle had built with his father and their other uncle. One day he hoped to be up here and be part of this wall, this wall of champions, these people were the foundation of The Lyon's Den the ones that helped start it all.  Maybe names like Josh Lazlow,  Stephanie Styles, Sanjay Baral, Marcus Richardson, Scooter Zion or Taurus mattered to the SCW audience or even in the grand scheme of Eddie's career but they meant something to The Lyons Den because they were part of what started it all.

“I know none of the people here matter to you Finn.” said Eddie, “Well maybe one of them does, or used to. But like I told you this isn't about my coach's relationship with your ex-wife. Although I do respect her and everything she's done in this business. She was a part of the early days of Lyons Den before she moved to have an amazing career if her own, eventually joining Wolfslair. Of all the talent from that time period her and Coach Kaiser are easily the most successful. Really the only ones who carried on through the years.”

Eddie continues to admire the history for a moment before turning to the camera.

“But now it's a new era.” said Eddie “And the talent that The Lyon's Den produces today the talent that coach Kaiser produces today is better than any of the talent that has come through here in the past. They were the foundation and now we are the ones making it great. Myself, Vincent Jr, Victoria, My cousin Alexander,  my good friend Cleo Phillips. We have been working hard to put credibility on the name Lyon's Den. But one little thing has bugged me since Coach Kaiser started pushing out his new talent some eight years ago now with Vincent Jr and Victoria. One thing has been consistent, no Lyons has been able to take home a world championship.”

Eddie pauses for a moment letting the thoughts move through his brain. He wants to be the one to break this trend, and what better way than by dethroning one of the very best in the Seattle Saint.

“Of course Cleo, she's won herself a world championship twice now, but I'm talking about my blood. The name LYONS,  the name that's on the school. One of us needs to get it done. We need a LYONS as world champion.” said Eddie, “And I swear to you then I'm going to be the one to do it and I'm going to do it by beating you.”

You can almost feel his determination through the camera. There is no doubting that this man truly feels he is the next SCW World Heavyweight Champion.

"I've been pondering trying to think about what makes you tick.” said Eddie “The brooding demeanor? The endless amounts of skinny jeans? Or is it because you walk around like you're the final boss of a game nobody wants to play?"

With a chuckle Eddie smirks to himself.

“Make no mistakes about it Finn, you're good. Real good. Anyone with half a brain can see that.” said Eddie “But there's a fine line between being dominant and being delusional and I feel like you've been blurring that line since I pinned you in that ring. You can act like it doesn't bother you, but it does. You came so close to a perfect 2024 and that one blemish on your perfect 2024 record is because of me. Even if you do retain your championship like you've done against so many challengers in the past, you'll still have that one blemish making your almost perfect 2024  just slightly imperfect. I caused that. Me. EDDIE FUCKING LYONS."

The fire and intense aura around him continues to grow.

“I know what you're thinking Finn.” said Eddie “You think I'm being too confident, too cocky. I'm letting one pin get to my head, and perhaps you're right. But my confidence is not backed up by arrogance my confidence is backed up by results. I earned my right to face you and I'm going to capitalize on it in the greatest way possible. See I felt it all from you then the intensity your fire the skill that makes you one of the best but I've also felt you falter I felt that moment when the cracks in Finn Whelan start to show and on December 22nd I will exploit every single one of those cracks until the foundation of Finn Whelan comes crumbling down."

Eddie takes a short pause.

“The truth is you've been champ for so long it's starting to get a little bit boring isn't it?” said Eddie. “It's like when I would play Monopoly with Victoria as a kid and she would hoard all the properties and keep anybody else from having fun. But I'm flipping the board this time and taking the dice,  the money and even that tiny little hat piece because that's my favorite one.”

Eddie smiles at the camera. A look of confidence and determination


“December 22nd is the night the Seattle saint becomes another chapter in the story in the rise of Eddie Lyons.” Eddie went on, “When people look back on this era of SCW, they won't just remember Finn Whelan's legendary reign, they'll remember the Night Eddie Lyons ended it. And that's going to be one hell of a story. I'll see you soon Finn, and Merry Christmas."

The camera lingers on Eddie his determined aura continues to linger has to seen all fades to black. He is ready for his huge championship match with Finn and win or lose, Eddie Lyons is going to give it his all so he can walk into the new year of 2025 as the World Heavyweight Champion.

And so the contenders begin to reval themselves, in addition to those previously announced, Ben Jordan will be returning from across the pond to try his luck once again, while Aaron Matthews will also be returning, looking to punch a ticket of his own and The Guy with a cape will be up to his antics while Caleb Storms tries his worth once again.

Well, at least everything just got spiced up. Eddie wanted better competition, he needed better competition than Justin Smith and Bill Barnhart. Maybe Alex Jones was decent competition, but Eddie still wanted it more, and now he felt things getting more exciting with all these former stars making their return to Sin City Wrestling.

They were just going to have to accept one thing. They were going to have to accept that this ia a new era, and many lare reaching to get to that glory all these former champions are trying to either cling to, or find once again. But the hungriest and most dangerous of all is the one that they’re all coming face to face with.

“Unbreakable” Eddie Lyons, and he’s ready to show all these former talents, just what the new school is all about.

__________

“I guess I get to be the welcome back mat.” said Eddie as he shut off the monitor. He saw what some of his opponents had to say, and wondered if even more were to come. As it stands right now, these were the men he felt who should concern him.

Alex Jones…
…Ben Jordan
…,Aaron Matthews
Guy With A Cape…..
…Caleb Storms

He wasn’t concerned about Justin Smith nor Bill Barnhart, and why would he be? He had proven himself against those two enough times, that it didn’t even feel arrogant to assume their failure was a foregone conclusion.

But these others, they were all new faces to Eddie. Men he hadn’t faced before.  Other than Guy, they were all making their return hoping to relive some sort of their former glory, and perhaps in a sense guy and his cape were as well.

“Well, this welcome mat hits back.” said Sabrina smiling.

Eddie smiled back, Sabrina was such a supportive girlfriend and he knew she would be thrilled to see him become a world champion.

“You’re not wrong, but these guys are going to come hard.” Eddie said, “They want to prove they still have what it takes.”

“So, you’re kinda like Jake Paul and they’re Mike Tyson?” asked Sabrina

Eddie pauses and glared at Sabrina dead-eyed.

“Never compare me to Jake Paul again.” he said with a grin, “But I see what you’re getting at. Me being the young gun against all the old-heads. That whole Paul Vs Tyson thing was just Rocky 6 anyway”

“I never watched that one.” Sabrina shrugged.

“It wasn’t too bad.” said Eddie, “But at the end of the day, all these stars making their returns will find out who the hell I am. I know they have their eyes on me, they all see me as a threat and if they don’t, they should.”

“Well, I believe in you Eddie Lyons.” Sabrina smiled.

Eddie smiled back, as she leaned in and they shared a kiss.

“Thanks babe.” he said.

“...You heard from Victoria?” asked Sabrina

“Not for a few days.” said Eddie, “She’s deadlocked into this thing with Luna. She’s fine though. She’s just preparing for her match in her own way. She is absolutely not ready to lose her Roulette Championship yet, and even more she does not want to lose to Luna once again.”

“I’m not sure we want to deal with her if she loses that championship.” said Sabrina

“True that.” said Eddie, “But we have to just let her do her thing. My business right now is the rumble. If I don’t win, then I’m not challenging for the World Championship, and I’m back at square one. I can’t start over again Sabz. This has to be my moment.”

“Then make it your moment.” said Sabrina, “Go show those old dudes that they don’t get to just walk back in and reap a reward. Not after all of your hard work. They have to earn their spot, like you did.”

“Eaiser said than done.” Eddie replied.

As confident as he was, he knew he had to stay focused because the majority of these men that revealed themselves have already been there. The top of the mountain. Where time and time again Eddie Lyons comes close, but never quite reaches his true potential. He knew the risk of that happening again.

Somehow though, maybe it was a little holiday magic in the air, but somehow this time..it felt different.

__________

Eddie gives the camera a confident look as the scene opens on him with a mixed tag title slung over his shoulder.  He pauses for a moment, with a short laugh as he begins speaking.

“So it’s come to this.” said Eddie, “A whole lot of you trying to make your comeback at MY expense. Forgive me if I don’t just accept that. Forgive me if I believe none of you deserve this opportunity more than I do. I am the only one of us who has been working, grinding each and every week for this.  I am the only one of us who has pinned the World Champion Finn Whelan. At least recently, in his current iteration. Maybe one of you beat him in the past, years ago or something. I don’t know, or care. What I do know is this is MY match and I am not going to let any of you just waltz back in here and take away what should be rightfully mine. It doesn’t fucking work that way.”

There’s some frustration showing in his eyes, a look of a man who’s tired of almosts and is really seeking his big moment.

“So Guy, you want to magically appear again after pulling a disappearing act?” said Eddie, “You can sit there with your cape and blame me all you want for what my cousin did to you.  Yeah, I get it she’s a callous bitch, but at least she too has been fighting week after week these past few months, proving her dominance as Roulette Champion. Taking it out on me though? Really. Well, you can try but at the end of the day what we’re going to find out is if that cape of yours can really make you fly, when you go soaring over the top. The King of SCW you might be, but remember…”

He looks down at his mixed tag title with a sly grin.

“These are the queens lands.” he said still grinning, “Hey, I gotta be a supportive tag partner right? Besides she made me part of her Queensguard. It’s only my honorable duty inn’it? It sucks she gave you The Ol’ Crown Adjuster, been on the wrong end of that myself, but you have it let it go, and stay focused on what actually matters.”

He pauses for a moment, as he casually looks around.

“So what about the lot of you mounting comebacks all these years later.” Eddie continued, “Ben Jordan is it? You seem like a nice chap. I’ve got a reputation of being a nice guy myself around here. But right now is not the time for me to be Mr. Nice Guy. I’ve came close to getting MY opportunity against Finn one on one for a while, and for whatever reason it just keeps getting pulled from my grasp. I can’t settle anymore Ben. I need this. I appreciate the praise, I do, but I’m not here to listen to anyone verbally fellate me anymore. It’s time I show that what everyone says about Eddie Lyons is true. That I can be the one on top, that one day I will be the one on top, and I fully an looking to make that day be December 22nd.”

He pauses again, if anything just to keep pace.

“Then we have Alex Jones, who wasted no time giving us new guys a history lesson.” said Eddie, “Wolfslair again. Of course.  You dogs are everywhere aren’t you? Look, save the resume pal. I don’t give a shit if you’ve won a thousand world championships and were named Wrestling God Emperor Of The Universe by the Galactic Wrestling Alliance. You’re in there with me this time. You can think I’m not ready all you want, but you and everyone else are going to find out how ready I am.  Truth is Finn doesn’t want to face me on December 22nd, because he knows I’m the biggest threat to his championship. He knows I can beat him. Why? Because I already fucking did, and I already took one championship from him. Now I’m coming to finish the job.”

He pats his mixed tag championship proudly.

“I feel like this Caleb Storms guy might be in over his head a little bit.” said Eddie, “Perhaps shows more promise to me than Bill or Justin do, but I’m not sure about you yet Caleb. But there’s some sort of spark about you I like, and I know you’ve held gold here in the past. Still you strike me as sort of just happy to be here. I’m here to win championships and I’m here to be the best, and if I have to go through you to so that, then I’ll do what I have to do and send your ass flying like everyone else.”

He takes another short pause, before he continues.

“Aaron Matthews, you seem quite confident.” Eddie continued, “You seem confident and ready for this. I’m just not sure what you’re really looking to gain. Maybe you just want to finally make a name for yourself. You said yourself not many know who you are. Maybe you want to make up for what you feel was a disappointing run. The problem I have is, this is MY run right now and you like everyone else don’t get to just come in and take it. I won’t let it happen and you like all your old friends will get a taste of what the new school in SCW is all about.”

He pauses again, the confident gaze in his eyes never wavering.

“Justin and Bill..” he shrugged, “I mean you do try at least. But what am I supposed to say? Especially about Justin. It’s just not their match to win, much like most of their matches. At the end of the day only one man will emerge the winner, my friends. We might even have a few more surprises in store, you never know.”

He shrugs.

“But I’ll stand an die on this hill, that none of you deserve this more than I do.” said Eddie. “And I will fight to earn my right because that’s what I do. No number of returning former talent will change that. I’ve been here, hell at least Bill and Justin have been here. But nobody in this match has been fighting as hard as I have, and you ALL will find out why I was the man who killed Finn Whelans unpinned streak. You all  know I’m someone to watch out for, you all said it yourselves. Now you can all watch, as I ascend to the next level when all of you get thrown out, and I’m the one who gets the championship match. Then you can all tune in this December to watch me dethrone Finn Whelan for good. So my friends, you better come with everything you have, because if any of you show even the slightest hint of ring rust  you will be destroyed. I have all the momentum  on my side, with all due respect nobody wants to see Finn go against any of you. I’m the match the people want, and I’m the champion the people want. It’s time I give it to them, and as I always do it will be done with HONOR BEFORE GLORY.”

He keeps his usual confident stare on as the scene fades out. A man who is always about may the best man win, and while that still may be the case he’s more focused on the win, and the prize at the end of the road in December. He sees no other option than winning, and isn’t going to let any amount of former talent come in and stop him. He went through that with Kris Ryans already, and had no intention of it happening again.

__________

As the days grew closer to High Stakes, Eddie found himself getting more and more restless. He wanted this opportunity more than anything. It had slipped from his grasp a few times before and it happening again just wasn’t something he had in the cards.  He only saw one possible option, and that was winning.

He sat, thinking to himself about the match. As he had been doing for the past week. He knew as long as he got to Finn Whelan, that he could do it. He could defeat him and become the new SCW World Heavyweight Champion.

Was he overlooking Miles Kasey? Perhaps a little, but for Eddie it was more about being the one to dethrone Finn. He had all the respect in the world for Miles Kasey, but it was Finn Whelan he truly wanted to face. Should it end up being Miles, then so be it. But Finn Whelan was whom he had his focus on.

He was the only one in the match who had been putting in consistent work week after week. Winning matches and always giving it his all.  All these comebacks be damned. They left and Eddie wasn’t too keen on letting any of them fast track their way to the top, irregardless of what they did in the past. This was his time and he was going to go out there and take it.

“There you are. I’ve been looking for you.” the voice of his tag partner, and cousin Victoria Lyons echoed through his head. He hadn’t chosen her as his partner, but so far it hadn’t been too bad and the two were to the point where they could at least be cordial with one another.

“Oh, hey Victoria.” he said, “What’s up?”

“I wanted to ask you this time.” she said, “You want to have a guest spot in my next promo? Say something to Luna on my behalf?”

Eddie paused and looked at his cousin curiously.

“Why do you want me to talk on your behalf?” he asked.

“Well, we need to show that we’re still a team. Even when we have our singles matches.” she explained, “We need to show the world that we have each others backs.”

That, actually made some sense. They were the mixed tag team champions and they did need to establish themselves as a team, and show that despite their differences, they did have unity.

“I suppose, next you’re going to ask to take part in mine.” he said.

“Only if you want me to..partner.” she grinned at him.

“I guess it couldn’t hurt.” Eddie replied, seeing no real harm in the idea.

“Good, because those geezers need to learn their place.” said Victoria, “It’s not their time anymore, it’s ours. Nobody deserves a world championship match more than you.”

“I know.” said Eddie, “Don’t worry, they’ll learn real quick that I’m next up, and perhaps they should have stayed their ass at home.”

Victoria laughed, “That they should have. That they should have.”

“So, how about you?” said Eddie, “How’s preparing for Luna going?”

“It’s going.” said Victoria, “I just hope I get the real Luna, and not the one that dropped the ball to Cassie Wolfe.”

“Really nailing that point home aren’t you?” asked Eddie.

“Can’t help it.” said Victoria, “Had she lost to someone like Alexandra Calaway or Bella 8Madison, or even Harper Mason maybe it would be different, but Cassie Wolfe is basically the Justin Smith of the Bombshell division.”

“Well, you know damn well she’s still going to be a tough fight.” said Eddie

“I know.” said Victoria, “But I have to build my confidence in my own way. Rubbing things in someone's face just motivates me more, maybe it’s not everyone’s way, but it works for me."

“Fair enough.” said Eddie.

“At the end of the day, the future looks bright for us both.” said Victoria. “Let’s go get it done, let’s go into the new year as both dual champions and the top team in all of SCW.”

“I like the sound of that.” Eddie grinned.

Perhaps a more unorthodox team. Eddie always fighting with honor, while Victoria fights with anything but. Eddie always remains as respectful as possible, while Victoria prefers to be as cruel as she can. But they are the mixed tag team champions, the light and dark. The Yin and Yang of SCW. They are…….

THE LYONS DEN

________

Darkness opens the scene and out of the shadows emerges Victoria Lyons. She has her usual cocky smile on her face and both of her championships displayed proudly on each shoulder.


“Hello boys” she said “Are you sure you're actually ready for what's ahead of you? Are you sure this is where you all want to make your return? You think you're going to stand a chance against a fully determined Warrior of light, my cousin and my tag team partner Eddie Lyons?"

She laughs to herself as if humored by the idea.

“So silly and so selfish,” she said, “You really going to come back and try to take an opportunity away from my cousin? My cousin who's been fighting over a year to get his world championship match with Finn Whelan?”

She shakes her head in disgust and scowls at the camera.

“Real pathetic if you ask me.” she said, "What you did in your careers wasn't good enough? So you have to come back and try to make yourself feel important again? No! You left, your time is done, stay away, stay out of my Queendom and stop trying to steal from my family or you will have to deal with the wrath of the queen and you know all about that don't you guy with a cape?"

She grins at the camera and adjusts her crown slightly as if to remind the king that SCW actually belongs to a queen.

"But I suppose you can't just hear me rag on you all day you want to hear from the man of the hour." She continued “You want to hear from the man that will throw all of you out and go on to become the next world champion ,The Warrior of Light, My cousin Unbreakable Eddie Lyons.”

Suddenly there's a bright flash of light and everything becomes illuminated again and we can see Eddie Lyons standing right there next to Victoria with his championship on his shoulder.

“The Queen is right you know, and I don't agree with her often but none of you deserve this I am the most deserving.” said Eddie “I absolutely refuse to let anyone come back and try to relive their former glory while I've been fighting to achieve mine.”

“Especially you Guy with a Cape.” said Victoria, “You may not have been gone as long as some of the others who are making a comeback but you're the one that mentioned my name disgracefully. So what you're still mad about that swift kick to the family jewels? All I did was give you what you deserved because SCW is a Queendom and my Queensguard is coming for your head for speaking about me like that.”

“Well I wouldn't put it quite like that.” said Eddie, “But I am coming for your head, but it's because I want my World Championship match and you are in the way of making that happen. I'm sick and tired of coming up short and I just can't let it happen again. I won't let it happen again, so blame me all you want for what my cousin did to you. At the end of the day your blind rage will be your downfall.”

Victoria looks a little annoyed at Eddie not completely agreeing with her but says nothing and just let it go.

“Anyway the point is nobody's going to be taking this from my cousin.” Victoria said, “This means more to him than it means to any of you. Ben Jordan seems to think that this is going to be fun or it's something to look forward to.  Because you're going to get hurt Ben,  because my cousin is angry and you will realize that getting in the ring with him is anything but fun and certainly not something to be looking forward to.”

“Again not exactly how I would have put it.” said Eddie, "But she does speak some truths. Understand, with all due respect, that I'm not here to listen to your praise of how much I've impressed you. I'm here to win a championship opportunity against the World Champion. So if you're here just to see how good I am well you're going to find out when I send you flying over the top.”

“Well said cousin.” Victoria laughed "They all want to come back and make a comeback off your name, off your hard work, and you're not going to let that happen are you because you're better than that. You’re “Unbreakable” Eddie Lyons and you deserve this more than anybody else right now. You know that Alex Jones idiot said you were not ready for this how does that make you feel Eddie doesn't that piss you off?”

“Oh it doesn't piss me off.” said Eddie, “What it does is motivate me, because I intend to show him how wrong he is. Then I'm going to go on to show him how even more wrong he is when I defeat Finn Whelan and become the new World Champion. He thinks Finn would eat me alive? Need I remind you Mr Jones, I'm the one that ended Finn Whelan's undefeated streak. I'm the one that brought the mixed tag titles to The Lyons Den I pinned Finn Whelan, and I can do it again. I know it, you know it, and Finn Whelan knows it.”

“You know Aaron Matthews seems to be content with making this a potential one-night thing. He just wants to see if he could still get down like he used to.”  said Victoria, “Do you really think that makes the mark of a future champion or someone who deserves this opportunity? He didn't even bother to learn anybody's name let's just show how little he really cares about this opportunity.”

“You might be right.” said Eddie, “But he'll find out exactly who I am real quick. He will learn the name Eddie Lyons by the end of this match and he will learn why I'm the one that is going to win the championship opportunity and why I will challenge the world champion on December 22nd.”


“And then there's the rest of you,” said Victoria, “I say it like that because that's what the lot of you are. Caleb Storms,  Justin Smith Bill Barnhart I don't think anybody expects any of you to win this match sure you may show some fight but not as much as some of the others certainly not as much as my cousin.”

“Look I've dealt with Justin and Bill both plenty enough times to know how to beat them they're not high on my list of people to be concerned about.” said Eddie, "Caleb storms you are an unknown quantity to me but something about what I've seen from you tells me that you're just excited to be here and you're not taking this as seriously as you should. You think my cousin Victoria is scary? She's not what you should be afraid of right now.  You should be afraid of what I'm willing to go through to win this match and how hard I'm going to fight to win this match because I promise that you don't have the motivation behind you that I do.”

“Oh but you should be afraid of me.” Victoria grinned, “You don't want to get on the wrong side of the Mad Queen.”

Victoria laughs as Eddie looks at her and rolls his eyes.

“Look fellas at the end of the day all I'm saying is you're going to have to bring everything you possibly can to win this match.” Eddie said “You're going to have to come better than you were before because the landscape has changed and the competition is a hell of a lot more tough. How many of you  even plan on sticking around after this match after you lose? If you don't plan on hanging around after losing this match do you even really deserve to be in it? Just some food for thought fellas because I can tell you for sure that Eddie Lyons will be sticking around after this match, even if I do somehow lose I will still find my way back to the top and will stop at nothing to get what I deserve.”

“But he's not going to lose.” said Victoria her tone annoyed, “And he needs to keep that word out of his vocabulary.  Eddie Lyons is going to win this match he is going to bring the World Championship to The Lyons Den and WE are going to run this company in the next year.”

“You know you're right I need to keep that word out of my vocabulary.“ said Eddie, “I am going to win this match and we'll see if any of you making your comebacks have what it takes to stick around. If you have what it takes to hang with the new SCW talent because there's others out there like Aiden Reynolds and LJ Kasey who are just as tough as I am and if you're going to stay you probably have to deal with them too. Again just some food for thought but right now you need to focus on me and how you're going to get through the most determined and most deserving person in this match because spoiler alert you're not going to this is my time and I'm taking it.  You can come try and take it from me or you can try but it ain't going to happen. My name is Unbreakable Eddie Lyons and I'm not some relic of SCW's past, I am its future and I am its next world champion.”

Eddie Lyons remains focused and determined to win the Superstar Rumble and continue towards his goal of becoming World Champion. In a way he seems almost consumed by the idea or perhaps it's just the influence of teaming with his less than popular cousin making him more aggressive. Whatever it may be, the others in this Superstar Rumble better take note because Eddie Lyons is going to stop at nothing to prove that he is next in line and that he will be the next World Heavyweight Champion.