BFTP Rd. 2 versus Jack Washington and Bobby Dahl

“The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations


Foreword:

The screen for the viewer starts out as static or snow as some might call it. Then it transitions into a full shot of me. I was dressed in black jeans, boots, lavender, and a colored button down with my black and red “Texan” bandanna on. I begin with a neutral expression and eyes as black as death itself.

Round one began and ended as expected. Having not heard from my friend, Fexx, I was surprised he showed up at the building at all. He chose not to speak to me before the match, and well you see how that worked out for him. I thought he was my friend but at the end of the day, he was simply another victim. I won’t apologize for what I did or the things I’ve said to him or anyone else.

The unblinking black eyes never shift, my tone is soft and my words are measured and with purpose. I’ve completely taken all emotion out of the equation.

This week, Laura and I face a new and different challenge in the form of Jack and Bobby. Everyone knows how much I admire her for coming back for this event. I know she was tricked into it by her “manager” Artie, but this will be good for you my dear friend. Unless you decide to do to me what you thought was a good idea in the first round.

My eyes narrowed after the completion of my opening statement.

I only entered this tournament for the sake of the company, in other words, I did it as a favor. I brought colleagues along for the ride as well. Chris Page and Peter Vaughn were put out in the first round under shady circumstances. Seems to be a trend around here, that friends of mine lose under those conditions. In time, that will be rectified by me. Only a few remain from CCPE. Kim, JMont, and Goth, all CCPE, will they suffer the same ending as the others in the second round? Not if I can help it, well other than “Mister you spelled my name wrong.” Fuck off Joe, you shouldn’t throw rocks when you live in a glass house.

I bow my head momentarily, and then look back at the camera, no change of expression and eyes as black as my soul.

That’s all for now, I have to go to Colorado to deal with a family situation. 

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As I entered the school, all eyes were on me, they knew I was pissed, although some were not sure why. I could feel the concerned amusement radiating from Whisper as I entered. Kim was a mixture of defiance and fear, Kat was just scared that I was mad at her. I sighed heavily as I slowed my walk allowing my eyes to go back to their natural color, containing the rage became easier over time and that’s not what I wanted for this conversation. So, I did what any father figure would do, I radiated reassurance and as much love as I could muster. Kat and Kim, along with Whisper met me at the center of the room. “May I use your office for a moment?” I asked Whisper with a friendly smile and a wink. “Sure,” she said and returned the wink in a conspiratorial way. I looked at Kat and Kim and in the same voice I used to use on my boys I said, “Office, now.” I watched as Kat bowed her head, and Kim started to say something but I shot her a look that said, “Don’t you fucking dare.” She quickly made her way to the office with Kat trailing not too far behind. I gave Whisper a quick hug, “Not too hard, Mac.” I smiled  in return, “Just an attention getter is all it will be, promise.” I allowed them a minute to stew on what had my anger up enough for an emergency visit and then went to the office.

There was a cup of coffee waiting on me and I smiled as I went to it. “Whichever one of you made that for me, thank you.” Neither of them looked up quite yet but then it was Kat that spoke, “Whisper made it, actually.” I smiled and sent gratitude her way. “Less chance of me being poisoned today,” I said with a wry smile. “Kat, I’m not mad at you, so please don’t sulk.” Her eyes fired up, “I am not…” I held up my hand, “Yes you are sulking and I know why.” I glared at Kim who hadn’t even looked up yet, “You had better put those black eyes away, girl.” She was struggling with it and I knew it, so I flooded her with love through our shared bond, beating at the walls she had erected until I finally broke through. She looked up at me in shock, but her eyes were the normal color. “I love you both, more than I could ever put into words. I hope you both know that.” Both women now looking at me with eyes full of tears and radiating as much love through our bond as I used to dismantle Kim’s mental defenses. This of course caused my eyes to well, love is a strong emotion, much more so than anything you can ever experience. “Now, Kim,” I said with sniffles and tears running down my face. I stopped and we all laughed at the big tough Texan showing this much emotion. I grabbed the box of tissue and handed it to them first and then took a couple for myself.

“Kim you really don’t know why I was mad about a picture you shared?” She shrugged but then saw the look on Kat’s face. “Think about who she is as a person, private to the core, and way past modest about her own beauty. She just came out of a bad break and just needs time to sort through that.” I paused for a moment to allow either to speak and neither did. “Kim, you know what you need to do but the real question is will you?” She looked at me, the confusion was obvious but I waited. She turned her chair so she could face Kat, “Sister, I am so sorry, I won’t do that again.” Kat in turn turned her chair to face Kim, “Thank you,” she said to Kim and the two embraced. I stood up with coffee in hand and left the office so the two could have that conversation continued or not. I shut the door quietly behind me and walked out to the center of the school floor. I watched various students working out in the ring and outside of it. There were teaching sessions going on all over the place. I smiled at how popular the Hell’s Gate School had become. Over the years I had recommended it to anyone who would listen, as had my wife Amber. Becca or Whisper was one of the finest teachers and mentors I’d ever known. “This place has absolutely exploded with students,” I murmured softly.

“Not surprised really,” I said, “Becca has a reputation in the business for being one of the best teachers and mentors around, period.” Another sip of coffee as I headed for the door, I needed a cigarette and I would never disrespect this school by smoking in there. The views here were breathtaking, to say the least. I stood there on the extended deck and just let the warmth of the sun bathe my face for a moment. Setting the cup on the railing, I dug a cigarette out of my pack and lit it. I warm hand touched my bare arm, “Thank you for doing that.” I looked over and saw a genuine smile on the face of Whisper. I nodded, “I’m glad I could help.” She smiled again, “The fact that they listened was the amazing part.” I barked a laugh, “Ha! You’re not wrong there.”

“Honestly though, you all mean so much to Amber, and me, this family is amazing,” I left the rest unsaid for now. “It’s more with you than without you,” she said quietly, “you do realize that, yeah?”

Fade

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The mystery of the three lighthouse keepers remains unsolved to this day, or that’s at least what they tell tourists to keep them coming to what was a good draw for Scottland.  Eilean Mor, Flannan Isles, Scotland didn’t really have much going for it other than that. I was by myself this time as I looked up at the lighthouse from the old stone quay, it would be a long walk but that was okay, it gave me time to ponder not just the mystery but my future in SCW. I was still feeling more than a little hostile about losing the title, especially to someone like that. Normally trips like this one were guided tours, but family history allowed me to do things that a lot of people couldn’t. I was well known in the highlands and even here, there were plenty of wrestling fans that knew me or at least my reputation. Back in the old days, I would sometimes cut promos in Scottish Gaelic. They got a real charge of that here in Scottland, they loved it when people used the old tongue. Anyway, back to the task at hand, the mystery of the 3 workers who disappeared. “Local legend had it that on Boxing Day in 1900, the clocks stopped as three lighthouse keepers on a remote Scottish island vanished without a trace, leaving behind their untouched meals and work notes for the following day.” I was reading from one of the pamphlets that they provided. 

“It went mostly unnoticed until ships started reporting the lights were out at the lighthouse. So, teams were sent out to investigate.” I mused, “Yeah that’ll get your attention, won’t it?” A gust of wind hit me hard just then as I watched the pamphlet get ripped from my hands and blown out into the ocean. “Yep, that’s one theory of how the men disappeared. The winds here are pretty strong, so one person thought that all 3 had met the same fate? Unlikely.” I continued walking up the stone steps toward the lighthouse. “Others think that a freak wave took the three men out to sea,” I mused. I looked at the distance from the ocean to the lighthouse itself, “Fuck off with that, would take the hands of God to create a wave that fuckin’ big.” I shake my head but remind myself that people get wild ideas sometimes, conspiracy theories are not new in the world we live in. “There are a hundred and sixty steps that lead up to the lighthouse,” I mused. “Another theory was that one of the men had killed the other two and then threw himself to the sea and died.” I pause my walking now about halfway up to the lighthouse. “Maybe he was bullied by the other two? Plausible but not likely, I would think that they would have found some form of evidence to support that. The only thing they did find was half-eaten meals, notes on the slate or chalkboard if you will for the next two days.”

I continued my climb without further comment, strangely enough, the base access point was unlocked. “The other interesting thing about this is the weather, the day they went missing. According to the logs, they reported severe storms and winds that the mariner in charge had said he’d never seen the likes of in twenty years of experience.” I smirked at the thought. “There was more, one of the men, Ducat I think was the name had become very quiet. He was known for his levity, telling bawdy jokes and the like.”  I entered the building, the lights were on but not a soul was there. “Another log entry showed that the second of the three, McArthur who was known as a tough guy had been crying.” I shrugged, “Given the right circumstance that can happen to the toughest of men.” I continued through the building and up to the kitchen area. “On the third day, it said that the three men were all praying… weird since the lighthouse was still only a year old at the time. What could scare three men with that much experience.”  My path through the lighthouse continued on and upward. “When the search teams arrived all they found here in this entire building was three large black birds on the roof of this lighthouse.” There were plenty more theories out there but none of them really seemed to stick. I had a couple of my own, having been in the Navy and met many a lighthouse keeper in my time. One was that, the history of the lighthouse keepers is full of stories about being docked pay for losing equipment. Maybe two of them went down to secure equipment in preparation for an oncoming storm? “Probably not a case of securing equipment,” I said out loud. “Locals reported no storms in the area on the days leading up to or after the men went missing.”

I looked out over the sea and smiled, “There have been legends about sea hags and the like for centuries, maybe a beautiful woman seduced all three men and they jumped into the sea,” I mused to myself. A soft feminine voice, “Would that be so out of the realm of possibilities, Lord Bane?” I turned quickly and saw no one there, I chuckled softly, shaking my head. “I must be losing my mind.” A soft laugh responded to me, “Not likely, you’ve always been a non-believer.” Then the voice went silent, I shrugged having exhausted the entertainment value of this “investigation”. I started to exit the building but found the door locked at the bottom of the stairs, I couldn’t unlock it which I found to be strange since they lock from the fucking inside. When I turned back around and began searching for alternative ways out, I saw seaweed slap against the window. Then a face appeared there, soft lines, angular features. The creature had slightly pointed ears. “No way,” I started to say and then he or she flashed me a smile. The teeth were all very pointy and serrated. “Way,” it said. “This is the way,” I said in return. “Nay Lord Bane, not this time, there will be no fighting between you and me but we wanted you to know the truth of this place.” I nodded, “Thank you.” It inclined its head, “You’re welcome, I believe is the correct response.” I smiled in return, “I’m not even certain how to address you, you’re appearance matches so many legends of Elve’s of the sea or residents of the fabled city of Atlantis.”

She chuckled again, “We simply are of the sea, and that’s enough for now.” I heard the manipulation of the lock, and the door opened. I pulled my cowboy hat down as a show of respect and she or he calmly gave me a polite bow.

Fade

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---

The staccato of boot heels on wood flooring echoes as the camera records. The door opens and swings open almost silently as I step into the room. I swing the door back closed and it latches with an almost audible click. I smile at how effective the sound dampening works in our home studio. I roll the sleeves of the lavender button down shirt up to the elbow. I smile as my eyes shine bright.

Round two of the Blast from the Past tournament. They call it the quarter finals, but it doesn’t matter what they call it until we reach the finals. None of the matches leading up to that matter one bit to me, until Laura and I face whatever poor suckers are left. This is just another mixed tag match that will lead us to that moment, should we get past Bobby and Jack. Whether he believes it or not, he’s got a good partner in Miss Dahl, just not as good as mine. Laura Phoenix is a difference-maker in matches like this. She can hold her own against any woman in this company, period.

The camera zooms in on my eyes, still the normally bright blue color they’ve been since birth. There is a twinkle or a spark there that had been missing the previous week. The anger seems to be gone from the man behind those blue eyes.

Jack managed to win the Internet Title from Raven last week. That is no small feat in itself, no one had been able to beat that man in a while. Congrats champ, the real question is can you hold onto it? That’s always a question of willpower and circumstance, right? You can if the opportunity doesn’t arise for me to take it all away. The ebbs and flows of a match can be violently sudden as Fexx found out last week. He never stood a chance because I didn’t allow it. That being said, I take nothing away from my partner, she dominated that match and secured the pinfall for us to move on.

I remove the black and red “Texan” bandanna from my head and allow my locks to fall freely, partially framing my face as I look down at the surface of the podium. I appreciate the lines that make up the grain of wood. He cannot be allowed to advance in this tournament, I think to myself.

Jack and I have a history in this company, well he has a history of beating me is what I should say. One on one, I’ve never beaten him. That will be his story that he will stick to until the end of time. I don’t blame ya one damn bit, Jackson. I’ve done the same thing to others in the past. If you have the advantage, use it. The last time that Jack and I were in the same ring, he wasn’t involved in the pinfall. He was in the match and made the mistake of focusing on the champ instead of the real threat.  Going into that match I knew that Ken was not focused on defending that title. He tried to, don’t take that shit out of context. He was distracted, and bravo to you, Jack for recognizing it.

I give him the polite golf clap with a wry smile on my face.

I knew you wouldn’t be able to pin him, so yes I focused on Knox and beat him from pillar to post, inside the ring.

The wry smile turns into a feral grin and I laugh.

It must really suck, when you think you’re the smartest guy in the room and you’re proven not to be, huh? You overestimated your ability and drank way too much of your own Kool-Aid. I wonder if it was red or purple?

I raise my hand to my chin imitating the thinking man emoji.

Shit Jack, it doesn’t matter I guess, right? Maybe you didn’t care enough about the title, to begin with. Maybe you didn’t care about that match because it wasn’t one on one.  Did you deserve a one on one match for the title? Absolutely, you had beaten me twice, so in my opinion, you had earned it. But, as you can tell, my opinion around here doesn’t carry much weight. If it did, it would have been Goth in that match instead of myself. I was grateful for the opportunity and it did pay off, allowing me to tie a record.

I smile a little more knowing how much Jack hates it when I mention it.

A four-time world champion, just some dumb hick from Texas, right Jack? That’s what you like to call me. You were wrong then and you’re wrong now, slick. You’re still not the smartest person in this match, and you’ll prove me right again.

I look down at the podium again, and that’s when the mood changes. When I look back up, the black eyes have returned. For some, they’ll think it's special effects or a trick of the lighting that I use here. For those that know me best, they know this to be a dangerous sign of things to come.

I want you both to look into my eyes and understand that I will not be denied what is mine by right. This tournament was your only hope of a future one on one against Harris for you Jack and for your partner, that person is still Roxi. Laura and I are the only thing standing in your way. When you look into my eyes, you’ll understand what it’s like to stare into the eyes of death. I am the apex predator in Sin City, that’s the way it’s been since day one. Jack knows it but doesn’t have the balls to admit that I’m superior to him in every way. I’m sorry Bobbie, this is the end of the line for you my dear. Tell Artie to stop putting you in these positions.

Still staring into the camera with eyes as black as my soul, the grin fades and when I speak, my voice is full of gravel, rough but direct.

I am continuing my path of destruction, it doesn’t matter who’s across the ring from me. Jack, this will likely be the last time we meet in that ring, you better make it count, princess. Stay out of the way Artie, I’ll do more than hurt your feelings.

fade.

A short fuse

“Let’s not have a double standard. One standard will do just fine.” ― George Carlin



[Foreword]

Recently we in CCPE have seen some popular names leave our organization but in turn, we added some of the biggest names in the industry. People like Ken Davison, his wife Kyra, her sister Lucy Wilde and her man Rogan Mac. Kim Pain, Goth, and the lady Melissa. Unless you’ve been under a rock for the last decade, you know those names very well. As you should, they are all names that draw big money. I’m very proud of my friends for joining CCPE, they deserve the recognition that being a part of an organization like ours comes with. They deserve greater exposure, and the opportunities to travel to other places and make an impact for that company. Any company they should decide to work for gets instant credibility and global interest. We’ve done that for a number of companies over the last two years. We’ve done it here, as is evident by the star-studded cast of players who have signed up for the Blast From the Past Tournament. The additions of Peter Vaughn and Chris Page to this roster in the last year are examples of that.

It’s been so successful that Goth, Ken, and his wife all wanted in and jumped at the chance to be represented by a great management company. So, as Sin City Wrestling grows its roster, you can thank Chris Page and me for that. He now has a vested interest in this company and wants as badly as I do for the company to grow and become more recognizable as a global leader in wrestling. Nothing would make me happier than for that to happen. You may not think it has anything to do with Sin City, even though I just laid it out there for all to see. SCW will never again be seen as a small player in the wrestling industry. It will be seen as a growing company with all the potential in the world.

You’re Welcome.

---

{Hell’s Gate Dojo - Grande Junction, Colorado - “Calling Home”}



I had known all too well what Cy meant when he said to tell me to call home. I knew it was bad, but I really wasn’t certain how bad it was. So, I stood there watching as Whisper and Rene ran a group of new students through drills. Her tone was crisp and had a slight edge to it. She had moved on from heartbroken to angry now. I couldn’t get my hands on the man that caused it, but I could be here for her if she wanted to talk. They had come to the end of the drills for the day and Rene shot me a quick smile, and ran his arm down his forearm which meant, “Go easy”. I nodded to him in return and Whisper saw me for the first time. It wasn’t really a smile she sent my way but it wasn’t murder in her eyes either. She shook her head and walked over to me, I gave her a big bear hug in return. She looked up at me, “Someone told you to call home didn’t they?” I shrugged, “or maybe I was just missing your charm and warm nature.” In return, she slapped me in the chest, “your sarcastic nature is going to get you killed one of these days.” I smiled through the sting of the slap, “Wanna talk about it?”

She rolled her eyes at me, “About what exactly, Mac? How I trust yet another miserable piece of shit? What a loser I am for opening myself up to someone, only to see it crash down around my head once again?” I sighed at her self-destructive attitude about the breakup. “That seems a bit counterproductive at the moment. What I really wanted to talk to you about is my own self-destructive nature and how I’m spreading myself too thin.” She looked at me in such a mortified way that I pulled her into another hug.

That’s when she broke into tears as I held her close, “Get that shit out, Whisper. Your students are gone and it’s just family here.”  Through our connection, I sent reassuring thoughts to her and after a few minutes the sobbing eased up and she patted me on the arm indicating I should let her go.. I did, and she patted me on the shoulder, “I’ll be back after I clean this mess up.” she pointed to her face, indicating the ruined makeup. I nodded to her, “Take all the time you need, I’m not going anywhere.” She turned and walked towards her private bathroom that was in her office. I felt the big meaty arm of Rene as he draped it across my shoulders. “I don’t know how you do that shit, Mac.” I chuckled, “It’s a gift and a curse, brother.” He laughed, “I could see that, this has been….even calling it hard wouldn’t do it justice.” I nodded in response, “yeah, I can tell, this was almost crippling for her. If I could get my hands on that bitch that did this, he’d be done” My hope had been that this would be the guy to be able to make her happy. He turned out to be just another loser that wanted to have his cake and eat it too. One of the things that I have noticed about myself lately is that I have this tendency to take on the burdens of my family.  Knowing that and changing the way I do things are two entirely different stories. When I went after Larry Tact, for example, I did that because Kat wasn’t able to at the time. Matt Knox was a twofer, for me because he tried to steal my wife. The other part again was about Kat, the way he treated her, and that whole mess.

Unfortunately Travis Blake or whatever his fucking name was, well, he was out of my reach. Whisper would not tolerate me going after him anyway. If she wants payback on that stupid little prick, she was more than capable of doing that for herself. Rene broke my thought process, “Ya know Mac, maybe it’s time to slow things down for a while.” I smirked and nodded, “Yeah, you may be right. It’s something I’ve been thinking about doing for a while.” “Good, wouldn’t want to see you burn yourself out, not with that gold strap to defend.” I nodded again, “Yeah, it’s a real killer to defend as it is but you add all that weariness from the road to it and it gets infinitely harder.” He grinned at me, “You’re so full of shit but thank you for trying to humor me on that.” I laughed at him, “You know me a little too well, old man.” He laughed, “I was just like you at one time, it’s easy to spot.” I nodded, “I’ll be right back, I’m going to go grab a smoke.” With that, I left Rene to his thoughts as I walked out into the cold night air. I slid a jacket on as I stepped outside, fishing my cigarettes out of an inside pocket. I grabbed one and lit it with the zippo lighter that red had given me, I inhaled deeply. I started down the steps and when I got to the bottom one, I nearly busted my ass on some ice that had accumulated. “Fuck, that could have ended badly,” I muttered.

I could hear the lighter steps coming behind me, and I turned around just in time to see Kat launch herself for one of her world-famous tackle hugs. An audible “Oof!” escaped me as I caught her. She buried her face in my neck as I held her close. I set her down gently because I wasn’t fully convinced of her physical recovery from surgery. She reached up and smacked me on the head, “I’m not a ceramic dish,” she claimed. I rubbed the spot where she had hit me and winked at her. She rolled her eyes and looked back at the stairs, “I think your big ass broke that.” I shrugged, “If I did, I’ll replace it, I’ve already got two by-sixes in the back of the truck.” I looked down at the cigarette and it had gone out, probably from when she jumped on me. So, I deposited it in the ashtray and grabbed a new one. Lighting it, a question came to mind. I exhaled softly, “How’s it going with Ari?” Kat shook her head, “I’m not sure, really. I don’t know her story that well.” I nodded, “Yeah, I catch bits and pieces of it from time to time. She’s got that internal rage, I know that problem well and it’s not easy to beat.” She looked at me, “Have you beaten it? I ask because I’ve noticed how much more aggressive you’ve been lately.” I gave her my most beatific “Mac Bane” smile, “My dear sister if I didn’t have that in check there would be a body count three miles long.”

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{In-Studio - Las Vegas NV - “Ripping the bandaid off”}

I stand in front of the microphone once again, ready to talk about my title defense against an old adversary. The only thing out of the usual appearance is a bandaid covering a wound from my last fight, above my right eye.

They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting a different result. I’ve done this myself a time or two. We all have that one person that we just can’t seem to beat. Well, except for Amber who just seems to be a world-beater. I digressed a little bit. This will be mine and Bill’s third match against each other. Bill finds himself in familiar territory, as the underdog.

I smile at the camera and bow my head slightly.

However, before I go into all that, there’s something else that needs to happen first.

I rip the bandaid off in a symbolic gesture.

That’s right, I’m ripping the bandaid off, so let’s sweep the curtain back and talk about real shit, shall we? Yes, I think we shall.

The temperature begins to rise as my blood pressure increases. I glare at the camera, summoning the hate and the fire I feel about the past. I don’t scream or even raise my voice, I keep it steady and soft, maybe even softer than normal. I want to keep the attention of people who have wounded me in the past.

Where are the gatekeepers? The men who screamed their opinions of injustice over my naming Matt Knox number one contender last year? That was my fucking right as the winner of the blast from the past. 

I rest my hands on the podium, breathing normally at this point, but that could change going forward. these motherfuckers have no idea of the beast that lives inside of me I thought to myself before continuing.

I told you all, he deserved to be next in line. He proved me correct, he got fucking lucky but at the end of the day, he won the strap. Much to the chagrin of all.

I pause there to allow that to sink in and to make sure that my pulse is kept in check. can’t let too much out all at once now, can we? Make them wait for it. I think to myself and I smile.
So, now we have Michael Harris named the

using air quotes.

number one contender



After he wins one match?

One

Fucking

match.

I hold my hand up to my ear as if the sound is too quiet, then I shrug my shoulders. just a whole lot of nothing I think as I continue into the next segment.

That’s right, not a fucking word. Not Ben Jordan, haven’t heard him say anything in months. Fenris, well he gets a pass, he’s hurt, and no sense in it. Mark Cross or as I like to call him, “What about me?” Oh, yeah that’s right, he’s only part-time and there was a tournament in someone else's sandbox.  Jack Washington, back of the line bitch. Oh, but he did finally sign up for the tourney because he was crying to Chris about how he didn’t get a one-on-one match. Matt Knox? Who the fuck cares.

I shake my head in disgust.

So Harris gets a fluke win over Chris Page and that makes him a number-one contender? I don’t fucking think so. We’ll see if he gets past Ken and see where that puts him. If I know my brother at all, that shit may put him on a stretcher.

To be continued…

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{The Oblivion Ranch - Las Vegas NV - “Haunted By The Past”}

When she said the name, I know the shock must have registered on my face. “Admiral Gomez”, was the name she said. I looked at my wife, “I thought that piece of shit was dead.” Amused but unphased by my phrasing, “next time darling, tell me how you really feel.” I responded with sarcasm matching her own, “No one wants to know how I really feel, love.” She smirked at me as she continued to lay out the scenario of him being one of McCray’s parishioners. “That makes sense, it would give him access to all kinds of government ties. “Gomez was allowed to retire without ever facing justice for what he had done.” I shook my head and stood up. “So, we have to figure out who would want to blackmail him? That will cut the numbers down but not by much. He made a lot of enemies and screwed a lot of people out of big paydays.” I stopped and Cuyon placed a massive paw on my boot to stop my pacing. I chuckled softly and reached down to give him a little love, scratching behind his ears. “The man has a list of war crimes, three miles long at minimum.”

I scratched my beard in thought, “too bad Vivian isn’t here to tell you about him.” Amber arched an eyebrow in response. “What happened to Viv?” “Protective custody, there were four men who tried to kill her recently. She’ll testify against them in front of a grand jury soon. In the meantime, I can’t contact her for her own safety and ours.” “You think it could be one of them,” she asked. I nodded, “it would make sense, but with his reach I doubt it.” I shook my head again, “Stranger things have happened though.” I stood back up to my full height and walked back to the couch and sat down. “I’ll make a phone call though,” I said as I picked up my phone. Scrolling thru my contacts until I found the number for Jeff Castello. I pressed the phone icon and it began to ring. He picked up, “Hey Mac, what’s on your mind?” I smiled, “Well, I’m wondering who your prisoners have made contact with recently?” He paused, “I know which ones your talking about but other than their lawyers, none.” I asked, “Stupid question, what about letters written, do you guys still log that information?” He paused only briefly, “Yeah, we do.” I almost wanted to do a happy dance. “How long do you need to see who they’ve written letters to?” He sighed, “A day, maybe two.” I thought about that. “I need it as fast as you can get it for me, I think they’ve been in contact with Gomez.”

There was a long pause on his end, “I thought that bastard was dead.” I chuckled, “Yeah we’re guilty of wishful thinking.” I happened to glance over at Amber as she rolled her eyes. I smiled at her reaction and stuck my tongue out at her. Another deep sigh from Jeff, “This shit just gets crazier and crazier Mac.” I bowed my head in thought, “Yeah brother, it damn sure does. Just ring us up when you find out.” “You got it.” I disconnected the call and looked up at her. She looked at me thoughtfully, “Who is this Gomez?” I sat back in the couch and looked at her. “He is a lot of different things to different people. To me, he was a war criminal and a traitor. To Vivian, he was a hero up until the very end. Knowing your mentor tried to have you killed is a hard pill to swallow.” She nodded, “I remember you telling me about that, I’m surprised he made it out of the country alive.” I nodded, “If I’d had my way, he wouldn’t have, but Jeff wouldn’t allow me to take the shot.” She looked at me in a way that said she understood. “Vivian and I had become close friends, she was an amazing sailor. She always did things the right way.”

She smiled at me, “And she still does, Mac.” I nodded and smiled back at her, “Roger that.” I stood back up, “you want some coffee?” She looked at her watch, “Shit why not?” I laughed as I made my way to the coffee pot.”

---

[in-studio - Las Vegas NV - “Ripping The Bandaid Off Part 2”}

Still in front of the camera and microphone, continued from previously. Now we get to the real reason for this promo Bill.

I’ve told you all of that, so you understand why I may be just a bit angry. So, you’ll understand why Bill has to pay the price.

A look of amusement, almost pure joy comes over my face.I’m going to enjoy this way more than I should.

Billy B. You’re an interesting dude, I’ll tell you that. You believe that you deserve this title match don’t ya?

I have to spend a moment fighting back the laughter.

Before I get too far into this, I do have respect for the things Bill’s accomplished. I know that he is a man that tries to win at any cost. I can’t shame him or blame him for that because I’m the same way. If I know him at all he will make all kinds of accusations towards me and the saviors. Because It’s Bill, no one will believe the shit he says. Dumb motherfucker.

I shake my head in disgust and sigh loudly.

Bill, we’ve been in the ring way more often than the record keepers indicate. They say three but I think this is the fourth or fifth time isn’t it? I’m pretty sure it’s been twice in the Blast From The Past Tournament. Bill was also one of my first matches here as I was running through the roulette division like there was no competition at all. Because there wasn’t. Before I knew it, I was five and oh and was the roulette champion. I destroyed everyone they put in my path. Much like I’ve done throughout the other men’s divisions. Internet, World Title reign number 4.

Spreading my arms out wide as if to say, need I say more? I refuse to take him lightly, as easy as it that would be to do. The thing that sticks in my mind is any given Sunday.

So yes, Bill and I have some history. When we first launched The Saviors, Bill, and Vinnie were the first victims. You’ve got Vinny’s goofy ass out there trying to turn over a new leaf. Meanwhile, his buddy Bill is busy making excuses on why he’s losing so often.

I shake my head back and forth making the tsk-tsk sound at the camera.

Now then, I know you’ll be bringing your lovely bride to ringside with you. Be warned Bill, if she sticks her nose in this match, Kat will be at ringside to make sure she pays the price. This is the only warning you’ll get.

I gaze as I look at the camera becomes sterner.

Should you manage to win this match and become the new SCW World Champion? It would open up a whole new world for you and Bea. People will want to be your friend. You’ll have people offering to help you manage the additional money that comes with being a world champion. The ladies will come knocking, Bill, they won’t care that you’re married. They’ll want that D, buddy. I hope you think you are ready for that kind of world.

I stare at the camera with a blank expression and then smirk at my own words.

Then there’s the schedule, the signings, and the radio and television interviews. A whole new wardrobe where you’ll have to look your best for the people. The fans would love you as a world champion there chief.

The smirk grows into a smile. I snap my fingers.

Then you’ll wake up because it’s all been a dream. A beautiful dream full of rainbows and unicorns. All because you have an overactive imagination Bill because that’s never gonna happen as long as I breathe. Bill, you are a career mid-carder at best. You like to tell stories that are obvious lies, only you believe they are true. So, that makes you a delusional career mid-carder with aspirations of greatness.

My smile disappears as I consider the alternate ending.

But what if he does beat me? What if I lose this title to a bumbler like Bill? Shit, I might have to retire at that point, I don’t think my ego could take that. Even if you do billy boy, you won’t get to celebrate that victory. No, because you can’t celebrate your moment if someone knocks you the hell out.

Fade.

{The Soft Intro}

Recently, I’ve been extremely frustrated, with no desire to try and hide it or make any excuses, this is the truth and I know it. Something that Austin James Mercer said to me a day or so after he beat me rings true. He told me, that we are not built for kind words, men like us are made for war. There is a lot of truth in that; trust me, I’ve thought about that a lot since it was said.

It has come to my attention that I may have no other choice but to be that person again. The war with Masque and her newly reformed alliance. That was what was forcing this line of thinking. The return of Matt Knox, after I had provided him with everything he needed to be free of her. My best friend, Ken, socialized with her and tried to figure some things out. I doubt he even knows why he is there meeting with them. The only thing that I can figure is that she’s sunk her claws into his psyche and he can’t shake her loose. That she has gotten to him somehow and now he’s questioning himself. The proverbial devil on his shoulder.

Speaking of which, Gabrial Baal has come into our lives. My wife is my heart and soul, I’m honest, I don’t like her choice of advisers. Much like she didn’t like mine, but she supported me nonetheless, as I will her. I know who and what he is, and he’s far more than a devil on her shoulder. He’s the type of person that will wreak havoc on families. Only if you allow it though, he does have weaknesses of his own. You have to go through hell to find them though. Unless you know who to talk to that is. I will continue to be supportive of my wife in this regard, as I always am.

As for Carter who I face this week, I’m sorry, kid. I’m not the one you should be facing right now. Not in a return match. You might want to check with Underwood and see what you did to piss him off.

---

{The Bane Ranch - Las Vegas NV - “The Elephant in the Room”}

Constantly finding yourself in no-win situations was an art form. Most people found themselves in that kind of situation a few times in their life, for me, it was Friday. Since Amber had made the decision to take Gabriel Baal up on his offer to be an advisor or agent, whatever the situation called for, things had been a little strained. The problem for me was that I knew Gabriel, for what he was and even more importantly what he was capable of. So I sat in silence, enjoying my first cup of coffee of the day, my beautiful wife asked the question, “Shall we address the elephant in the room?” I looked up at her just as she said it and almost sprayed my coffee everywhere. A small smirk appeared on her face as I wiped away the single dribble of coffee with a napkin. “Your timing is impeccable my dear,” I said with a smile.

Her smirk became almost like neon on a foggy night. “I did learn from the best, why should I always be the one wearing what I’m drinking?” I barked a laugh, this was karma for all the times I had done that to her. “That’s fair, love, that’s fair. I had honestly been dreading this conversation. Any slight misstep on my part would send her headlong into his camp quite permanently. “So, sure, which elephant are we talking about?” I made sure my tone was serious and not flippant in any way. “Gabriel,” she said in a matter-of-fact tone. I nodded, “Okay, I really wasn’t aware there was anything for us to talk about where he is concerned.” I held up a hand with my index finger extended, asking for a second. She nodded at the unasked question. “Red, I told you from the beginning that I would not fight you on this one. When you tell me you need something, then it’s going to happen. I’ve always got your back, you know that.”

She considered my words and nodded her head in acceptance. “You don’t like it though.” I nodded my agreement, “No, I don’t but in the same respect. You didn’t like me traveling with Chris or using him as an agent. You didn’t fight me on that and I appreciate that very much. I’ve respected your decision and will continue to do so.” She smiled at me as I stood up, “Want to go outside with me?” She nodded and grabbed her hoody, well it was actually my hoody but no sense in arguing semantics. She followed me toward the back but I stopped at the pictures in the hallway. I touched the picture of us standing together as husband and wife. “Til death do us part,” I whispered to her. “I will always back your play, love.” She smiled as I kissed her on the forehead. “Marking your territory again, eh?” Now it was my turn to smirk, “Only if I need to.” She smacked me on the arm as she went out through the door that I was holding open for her. We went to our usual sitting places by the firepit. I lit it to put some light and heat on the subject. I grabbed my cigarettes and lit one. I looked over at her, the morning light of a firepit does amazing things. It framed her face as if I was looking at an angel or a member of a royal house. “How well do you know Gabriel?” It was an honest question, and to her credit she didn’t get defensive or try to duck the question.

“Not really all that well, I know his reputation but I’ve heard he’s changed.” I considered my next statement and slowly made the comment, “When the time comes, you should probably reach out to Kyra or Lucy. They know him far better than I do.” She looked over at me, “When the time comes? What does that even mean?” I smiled at her, “You’ll know when that time is, trust me.” I took a drag off of my cigarette and exhaled slowly but the expected explosion didn’t come. She seemed to consider my words very carefully but didn’t say anything in return. With Amber that can be both good and bad at the same time. When I looked up at her, she wasn’t staring daggers through my skull, I saw the eyes of a woman who loves her husband. She understands me better than anyone on this planet. She knows who I am and what I’ll do if someone threatens our family. She is my focus, my reality, and my motivation.

Fade

---

{Vivian’s Apartment - Las Vegas NV - “Reliving The Past III”}

[As told From Vivian’s Perspective]

I just could not believe what I had been told by Julian, that his men do what they want and they are untouchable. I was completely taken aback by that news and his hard stare to back it up. I knew better than to try and argue at that point. I knew that Captain Castello and the rest of the team were inbound and due to arrive at zero-five thirty tomorrow, then I wouldn’t feel quite that alone. I could do this, I was going to make sure I was there to greet them. Once Jeff knew what was going on, he’d be able to help better protect people from this monster. Rear Admiral Gomez’s assertion that his team could do whatever they liked, didn’t sit well with me. Knowing that there is little you can do about something can be very tiring to the point of exhaustion. I had my bunk assignment now so I wouldn’t be staying in the same place tonight. My phone chose that moment to buzz, good old watts line, it was Jeff. “Petty Officer Castle,” he began. “Yes, Captain.”

“We are ahead of schedule, be at the airstrip in one hour.” I was shocked at first but then I remembered that Jeff often put out misinformation to lure people into a false sense of security. Especially if he felt he had enemies that were out to get him or his people. “Yes sir, I’m on it.” I replied immediately with respect. “No need, the squad will be at your new quarters within the hour.” I was confused at first, but I was certain that he would explain it to me once they arrived. “Yes sir, I’ll be on standby.” There was a pause from the other side. “That seaman that you told me about in your report.” That caused my mind to lurch, I was hoping for the best but expecting the worst. “She followed your direction and filed a report with me last night. I had her moved to a location that they can’t touch.” I almost whispered it, “oh, thank god.”

“Keep your guard up, Petty Officer Castle,” he said to me and I responded, “Aye Captain.” then the communication stopped. I felt eyes on me as I ended the call but I ignored it as I weaved my way through the compound to a makeshift px(or company store if you will). I ducked inside, knowing I was being followed. Within seconds of my entering the store, Joshua Nightlinger came in, fancy that eh? He approached slowly and confidently. “Petty Officer Castle,” he said in acknowledgment. I returned the respect, “Petty Officer Nightlinger.” He studied me for a moment and then offered an apology, “I wanted to apologize to you for the way I treated you earlier, that was unsatisfactory.” I inclined my head, “Apology accepted.” His eyes never left mine as he asked another question, “Do you remember the pretty blonde sailor that was just outside the barracks today?” In response, I feigned ignorance, “Can’t say I recall anyone, when I went outside I was adjusting my seabag to get the weight distributed more properly.” He sighed, “Too bad, I really needed to have a word with her. I don’t suppose you’d accept an offer for a drink and dinner, would you?”

I smiled coyly, “perhaps another time, I’ve got a lot to do this evening and am afraid I won’t have much time to myself.” He nodded in what was fake acceptance based on the set of his eyes that had steadily hardened as we spoke. I’d learned a very long time ago, that certain types of men, do not like to hear the word no. What he didn’t know is that my location was being broadcast to the squad the entire time. “I’m told that you know Gomez, he promoted you not long after boot, right?” His gaze was now cold, there was nothing warm about him, fake or otherwise. “That’s right,” I said in response. “I’m also sure that he told you that his men are untouchable, right?” I nodded my head, in response. “That’s right he did say something to that effect.” I followed that up with, “I’m supposing that there’s a point to all this bravado?”  He sneered at me and then a shadow fell across his face. I looked up and then snapped to attention. “Captain Castello,” I said in a voice full of respect. “At ease, Petty Officer Castle,” he said quietly. “Petty Officer Nightlinger, these gentlemen will escort you to your new barracks assignment.” Jeff jerked his thumb at the two Marine Corps Military Police.

“You don’t really think this will stick do you, Captain?” Jeff smiled at the younger man. “Not only will it stick, but you’ll be facing a general court-martial, you can bet that your career in my Navy is over.” I watched as he was led away in handcuffs and sighed in relief. “What about the rear admiral?” I asked in a solemn way, knowing the answer already. “Between you, me, and this wall, he’s been relieved of his duties and is currently on his way back to Washington for a hearing.” I nodded and allowed a single tear to escape my iron control. “I understand that at one time, you and he were close. He had promoted you after saving his daughter.” I nodded and said nothing as I struggled with my emotions. “He’ll be treated fairly, he’s a career officer and had been a good one up until he was stationed here.”

The tug of the present brought me back again.

[Back to Mac’s Perspective]

 I could hear Jeff grunt as he stopped near the stairs. He quickly pulled out his radio, “Red One, tear ass. Red 6, are you primed?” The answers came back in the order that they were issued. “Red 1, aye captain.” “Red 6, we’re good to go chief.” He nodded, satisfied with the answers. I peeked around the banister enough to see the getaway van tearing ass toward the entrance. Mere seconds after that a black SUV took off after him.  “Okay, the decoy is away and at least one is after the van, up we go folks.” We moved as quickly as we could up the stairs and stopped at the door to scope things out. There was a helicopter not far away and its turbines hummed and whistled as they were coming up to full power.

We led them to the helicopter with me watching our backs. There had been no sign of anyone so far and I felt a little more at ease as we approached the helicopter.

[to be continued.]

{Unnamed Diner - Somewhere in Las Vegas NV - “The Conversation Part 3”}

 “Alright asshole,” he began until I revealed from the folds of my jacket the shotgun. “Move, and if any of your people even breath wrong, you’re a dead man.” Needless to say, he began making a move toward the door. When I motioned for Fexx to head out, he looked decidedly uncomfortable. I knew things like this were not what he wanted to take part in, but he did ask if he could help. So here we were, looking death in the eyes one more time for the fuck of it. We stopped at the door and Terryl went outside to wait by the truck. I nodded to him and he climbed in. “Okay Francis, this is where we part company. Don’t fuck with me or my family and you’ll have a very long and illustrious end to your career in D.C. I held the shotgun in his back, jammed it against the parking lot bumper, and smiled as it effectively pinned him to the door. He grunted in response, “You shouldn’t have done this Bane.” He said in a gravelly voice. “Well shit, if I had a dollar for every time someone said that to me, I’d have retired a long time ago.” I then stepped away slowly and got in the truck.

Terryl and I drove along in silence for several miles, then exiting the highway, I parked my truck near his vehicle. “Terryl, thank you for going out there with me tonight.” He nodded, “Sure thing, Mac, I learned my lesson, won’t happen again.” We both got a laugh out of that, we both knew that it was a lie when it left his mouth. He and I would likely have many adventures together in the future. Or, after this was resolved with Masque and Knox, he’d ride off into the sunset and I’d never hear from him again. Regardless, he seemed like a fellow I could trust to have my back. So we shook hands and went our own ways, with me headed for home and him off to no telling where. It didn’t take long before I made it home. I stood in the garage with the door open for a long time to make sure that no one had been able to follow me. After a couple of hours of sitting in the darkness with no sign of movement on our street, I finally went inside the garage and lowered the garage door. Then into the house, it was quiet as expected. It was almost two in the morning and so I padded as quietly as I could to the backyard. Kuyon always on high alert met me at the back door, rubbing up against me, I reached down and scratched his ears.

I opened the door and stepped out back into the night air once again. Kuyon followed close behind me as I found a pack of cigarettes and a fresh tumbler of my favorite scotch. Amber sat in the chair beside my own, “How’d it go?”, she asked me. “Well, about as well as you might expect,” I said with a half smile. I sat down and grabbed the tumbler, “But for now, he’s agreed to leave us alone. “Oh, and thank you for that shotgun.” She waived it off, “I wonder how many men have ever nearly lost their lives to their own firearms.” She winked at me as she said it and I laughed. She or someone she knew had stolen that shotgun from Frank’s own home. “Once he finally turns around, he’s sure to recognize it,” I said with mirth dripping from my voice.

Fade.


{The Bane Ranch - Las Vegas NV - “The Trash”}

I could be quiet when I wanted to be. However, when two hundred and eighty pounds of man transitioned from carpet to wood flooring, the staccato of boot heel’s echoed throughout the long hallway leading to the studio. The light grey walls were adorned with family pictures. The day that Amber and I had become husband and wife. I traced the picture frame with a finger and a fond memory sprang to life. My son, Jimmy, had teased her for months, calling her “almost mom”. Then after the vows, he smiled at her and said, “welcome to the family, mom.” These are the memories that I cling to, but even that couldn’t break my sour mood.  I had been feeling very frustrated as of late but I had no real desire to focus on that. I would be facing someone who wasn’t necessarily a friend but someone I had empathy for. poor kid, I thought to myself as I prepared for the video to promote our match.

Unfortunate circumstances.

That’s where we find ourselves today, Carter. I don’t know if you are still in the same situation as you were. Being a prisoner in your own home and all. I hope you’re not, I hope your friends were able to separate you from the thug you were living with. If they were able to do that, then I’m glad, if not, well maybe I can knock some sense into you. Facing me in a return match is the last place that I’m sure you wanted to be. I have a certain reputation for hurting people who deserve it. The real question is do you deserve it? The short answer is no, you definitely do not deserve it. 

he reminds me so much of my own childhood. My mother was a prisoner in her own home.

I’ve heard the whispers, some people believe you have Stockholm syndrome. That is not the only reason I speak to you now in a respectful manner. The other is that I believe you have the potential to become a world champion here. That would mean that you would have to start beating people like me. I just don’t really believe you are quite ready for prime time. I don’t think you have the focus and the drive to take on the elite of this company. I know you won your fair share of titles down in SCU but the competition in SCW is a lot tougher. I know you know this already, so go out there and prove me wrong if you can.

My mother developed PTSD that was so bad, my father and his friends would raise their hands up. Even that slightest movement would cause her to have a panic attack.

Do I believe that you’re capable of beating me? Right now? No. The reasons are not what you might think. Let’s talk about the obvious for a moment, shall we? First is the size difference. I am one of the biggest on the roster, maybe the biggest. The only person that is not intimidated by my size is the man I faced last time out. And Fenris of course who’s not scared of anything walking the face of the earth. The difference in experience, there is a huge disparity there as well. Knowing how very proud you are of your accomplishments in SCU. They still don’t measure up. I have more world title reigns than titles you’ve won. You’re not on my level, Carter. I’ve won world titles all over the world, and I’ve held a world title on sixteen different occasions. Obviously not all under the sin city banner, I’ve held that title three times. 

I smile a sad little smile at the camera while thinking to myself, “What the hell did he do to piss underwood off?”

You have everything in the world going for you. You are the darling of the locker room, everyone loves you and you're over the top personality. That will win you a lot of friends, but it won’t win you many matches.  Especially not against me. This is the last show of the year, when we come back it will be time for the super card once again. Everyone and I do mean everyone who is booked on this show is looking to build momentum. Myself included.

I shake my head in disgust while thinking to myself, God I hope that kid got away from Laz, he deserves so much more from life than that.

What that means for this match is exactly the way it sounds. I’m not going to sugarcoat it for you. It’s the way it is. When we come back from the break, I’ll be challenging for the world title. While you are fighting…?

I spread my arms out wide indicating that I don’t honestly know.

If it were a high-profile match, I think I’d remember who you were facing at the super card. Are you even booked?

I drop my hands down by my side.

That’s just super disappointing, isn’t it? It’s like you don’t know what the future holds, or maybe Underwood doesn’t think you have one. You’d have to ask him because honestly, I don’t know.

Crossing my arms across my chest, I set my jaw and I can feel my gaze harden.

I know one future that isn’t possible. That future match against me, the one we are are scheduled for here in a few days. That match has already been decided by fate, you’re going to lose. Hell if you beat me, maybe I’ll give you my spot for a shot at the world title. That won’t be necessary though. You got your doctor’s release, which is great, but you’re stepping into the ring with a man who is known for picking apart his opponents. How long do you think it’ll be before I target your hand? I mean why not? That’ll make an early night for me and an easy trip to the pay window. Would you risk reinjuring your hand for the sake of pride? 

I almost feel sorry for carter, he’s stepping into the ring with a guy who doesn’t have sympathy for self-inflicted wounds.

It doesn’t mean you can’t beat me, I know you’re capable but it would require the perfect storm.

I smile at the words.

I told Sin City that I felt there was a storm coming. Some people may have thought I was talking about Masque or Amber. The real answer is I was talking about me.

I am that storm.

Blood in the water

“Holding a grudge doesn’t make you strong; it makes you bitter. Forgiving doesn’t make you weak; it sets you free.” — Dave Willis

{The Soft Intro}

So much has happened in the last few weeks as we edge closer and closer to the end of the year. My friend Vivian was in trouble because of her past, but I had to give Despy and Angel props for letting me know. So I had that to deal with, in addition to the Masque problem. Now, I’ve always been proud of my ability to shrug off manipulation, but Masque had gotten to me in a way as well. She knows there is no reason for Amber to come back to active competition if she doesn't force her hand. So, now the die has been cast, what will this week bring to the Bane family?

---

{Vivian’s place - Las Vegas NV - “Reliving The Past”}

There had been no sitings of the three men in days, and so I sat near the back door and balcony exit in Vivian’s apartment. As I drank my coffee I listened to Vivian talk about the past, and my brain was screaming at me, There has to be more than what she was revealing. I waited until she was done talking and silence engulfed the room like a cold wet blanket. I sighed, then clearing my throat I began to speak. “Vivian, I love ya like a sister but there’s holes in your story, things that don’t add up. Can we start over again and tell the whole story?” Her husband Grey started to say something, but she shushed him before he could say anything. “He’s right Grey, there’s a lot that happened that I didn’t mention. He deserves to know the truth, all of it.” I looked over at the pair and nodded, “Take your time Viv.” She nodded her head, “Where this all began had nothing to do with Puerto Rico or Frank Spatharos. This all started in Khandahar” I studied her a moment, “I was there with you, wasn’t I?” She nodded again, “Yes, but you joined us later than what I’m talking about.”

The following is told from Vivian’s POV

The scene shimmers and fades to a time of strife in the middle east, which is kinda vague because it has always seemed to be that way.

I looked in the mirror, admiring my own reflection, “Yes girl you are fine as hell.” I said to myself because there were not many people around. I had to check in soon, even though the rest of my squad wouldn’t be here for a couple of weeks. I turned to grab my gear to go and I saw three men there, they were all eyeballing me like a piece of meat. The tallest and by far most muscular of the three leered at me, “Well, what do we have here? A sailor with a smoking body is what we have.” There was something about them that screamed danger, so I played along. “Really? Do you think so? That is so kind, but I have to go report in.” They moved out of the way and as I passed them, I felt a hand on my ass, so I stopped. “We don’t know each other like that, be careful you don’t draw back a fucking nub.” He immediately snatched his hand back like it was on fire. Once I had stepped outside I was motioned over by another girl. She whispered to me, “Don’t ever let yourself be alone in a room with those three again, girl, they are dangerous.” I nodded to the young girl, she was about my age and had a scar along her jawline. “They do that to you,” I asked. She shook her head, “Nah, shrapnel from a mortar did that,” she responded with that familiar Lousiana accent. An accent that bordered on being Texan.
“Thanks for the warning, girl, I’m on my way to HQ now to check in.” Making sure I had my orders, I grabbed them out of my seabag. “How do you know those three?” She motioned me to be quiet and quickly stepped into the shadows of the building as I hoisted my seabag in place. I set off at a brisk pace. I knew I’d see her again and she could fill me in on what I’d gotten myself into. My focus now was meeting specific people and studying the lay of the land so to speak. Our Commanding Officer, Jeff Castello needed information on what was out there. You know, so he wouldn’t walk into a bad situation like I apparently had. Castello wasn’t a bad commanding officer he was a bit of an asshole at times. Times like these, but as he told me, “Petty Officer if I didn’t think you were capable, I wouldn’t send you.” I had been selected and promoted to Petty Officer shortly after boot camp. They say it’s about being in the right place at the right time, and that was certainly true. I had been lucky enough to save a young girl six or seven years old. I was in Biloxi Mississippi for training, my shipmates and I had gone to the beach for some fun and some rest before survival training was to start.

We were all in the water playing around and acting like the children that we were like we hadn’t just been through eight weeks of hell that should have taught us to act right. Anyway, there was this kid that was swimming around close by. That’s when my friend Jon McDermit spotted the fin in the water not far away. People started to scramble out of the water. The shark was headed straight for that poor kid. She seemed oblivious to the danger and kept moving around on her bodyboard and laughing. I would come to find out later that this little girl, Chelsea, was autistic and sadly had some MR to go along with it. So, while everyone else was trying to get out of the water, I raced towards Chelsea. I snatched her off the bodyboard just as a ten-foot bull shark took a chomp out of her board. I raced as fast as I could, which I admit wasn’t very fast considering how hard it is to run in knee-high water. Just as we reached the wet sand, I collapsed with the little girl. She was crying and screaming, scared out of her mind. She wasn’t bleeding or anything, so that was a relief.

Her mom and dad showed up on the scene almost the instant that we collapsed on the beach. Her mother was this stunning woman with alabaster skin, perfect tits, and the best smile that money can buy. Her father, the man was the epitome of what a man should be. Well over six feet tall, muscular and tan, and smelled like angels cried on him. He never freaked out, keeping his composure like a professional. That’s when I realized that he was part of the command structure at the school. He recognized me as well, “Amazing,” was all he said. “Who would have thought that my daughter would have been saved by another sailor.” He left it at that as he and his wife gathered their daughter up and decided to call it a day. After they had thanked me and made their way away from where we were, my friend Jon scrambled over to me. “Are you okay?” I nodded in return, “Mostly,” I quipped. “Girl, do you know who that was? The child you just pulled from the jaws of death?” I nodded, “Rear Admiral Upper Half, Julian Gomez,” I said without hesitation. He nodded and then wordlessly plopped down next to me with a corona. “Yeah”

That was how I got promoted so early into my Naval career. Field promotion for what I had done that day at the beach.  “Sometimes, it’s a good thing to be a good human being,” I muttered to myself as I approached HQ. The marines stationed there reviewed my orders and got clearance for me to enter. I was directed to a specific office and when I got there, the name on the door, I swear it warmed my heart. J. Gomez Admiral SpecOps. Based on the rating that was on the sailor I just met, this was his commanding officer, that was good to know if Gomez was anything like he’d been back then.

feeling the tug of the present, I come back to Mac and Grey listening intently.

I look over at Viv who is clearly becoming tired. “Take a break Viv, we can continue this later,” She smiled and nodded, “You’re a good man and a better friend, Mac.” I kissed her on her forehead, “You are too kind, my dear.” Vivian was a lot of things, a stunning beauty, with a high level of intelligence and a passion for helping people. I went out on the balcony to have a cigarette, with my son, Jimmy hot on my heels. “Pops, this is vendetta…” he said allowing the rest of his sentence to trail off as his mind was now in overdrive. Before I could respond, my phone started going off.  The caller i.d. showed as unavailable and the number didn’t show up either. Well, it’s either a spam call or someone who doesn’t want to be tracked. I slid the bar over to accept the call. “Petty Officer Bane, it’s been a while,” the voice said to me. I smiled, “Spaz, what can I help you with today?” I said to the voice that I knew was Frank Spatharos, my former Assistant Officer In Charge in too many places to name. I could hear him sigh, he hated that I called him that. “Sorry Frank, I hear you have an appointment coming up soon, congratulations.” It always made me sick to my stomach to lie, even to him. The truth is that there are not many people that could ever rival his level of assholery. “Thank you, Bane. Hey, can we meet somewhere and talk candidly?”

Fade.

---

{Unnamed Diner - Somewhere in Las Vegas - “The Conversation.”}

I was walking into the proverbial bear trap and I knew it. There are not a lot of people in this world that would willingly walk into a dragon’s lair knowing that the dragon was very awake and very frightened by your very existence. There were many problems with this scenario, first and foremost, I didn’t have any backup, no plan B, nothing…I was fucking winging it. It was both stupid and high risk, but then again, that was me. So, my headstone would likely read, here lies Mac, he died because he was stupid. I knew this place, it was a dive bar often visited by bikers. So, I rode in on my vrod to see who was paying attention. Once I put the kickstand down and killed the motor, there was a small crowd that gathered nearby. “Man, that is one hell of a refurb on that 06.” The compliments kept coming and I acknowledged them all as I smoked a cigarette. Couldn’t smoke inside which was bullshit but it’s whatever. I was hoping to not be here for long and get out with my hide still intact. I thanked them all for the compliments and made sure they knew that I appreciated it.

I stepped into the bar alone and it didn’t take long before I spotted Frank. Smug motherfucker sitting there in a bomber jacket, showing his rank, yes the rank he had yet to achieve. It wasn’t all that difficult to spot his hired thugs either. He typically didn’t use sailors for this kind of thing. He preferred to use the local talent that was desperate for cash. I approached his booth and the two men both started to approach me. Frank’s voice was clear, “Oh, sit the fuck down.” I chuckled as I approached Frank, “The always congenial Frank Spatharos,” I chided him. “Then again, it’s probably a kindness, they don’t look very tough to me. Better than the last bunch you sent my way, I’ll give you that.” He glared at me, but his face softened as he spread his arms, “What can I say, I try to work on the cheap.” I nodded at him, “That’s fair.” We were both pretty decent actors, this is someone that has receipts that are long overdue. Right now though, he was about as untouchable as they come. His tied to the current administration were well-documented and publicized. His face had been all over the news for his service to his country. Instead of sitting, I leaned against the post that was part of the booth.

He smiled at me, “Please sit, Mr. Bane. I didn’t invite you here to inflict harm on you or anyone else tonight. Let’s call this our parlay, shall we? No insults, weapons, or threats, just a conversation.” I gave him a sweeping bow and took a seat opposite him. I had kept my jacket on to keep my pistol and the flak jacket underneath out of site. I knew he was assuredly armed as well as I grasped the handle of the sawed-off shotgun, that was hidden within the folds of my duster. If he so much as breathed wrong, he’d be dead before anyone else was hurt.

“Violence is not always the answer, Mac,” He said over the salted rim of the cup.” I nodded and smiled, “It certainly doesn’t have to be. Salty Dog?” He looked confused for a moment, “Yeah, I got hooked on these damn things a long time ago. Slow gin, grapefruit juice, and salt.” I smiled, “The more things change the more they remain the same,” I said in jest. “Now then, Frank, why did you call me out here? We’ve not spoken in such a long time, and we obviously didn’t part on good terms.” He studied me for a moment which left the conversation in awkward silence. A waitress approached, “You two good over here?” I nodded, “I’m good.” This brought an arched eyebrow from Spatharos. He waved her off and she left. I gave him a hard look, “Why have Kratos taken out? That guy was harmless as fuck.” I shook my head is disgust. “Mostly because he’s not crazy, it was a good act but like others, he knows where the bodies are buried.” I nodded, “I figured it was something like that. Is that why you wanted to talk to me? Get me out in the open, and finish me off?” I shook his head, “No, I got your message, why would you be so willing to keep my secrets?”

Fade

---

{In-Studio - The Bane House - “Forgiveness”}

In the studio, I was preparing to start my promo and then the song, “I told you I was mean”, by Elle King. That song always made me chuckle. I stood under the boom mic, staring at it as the blinking red light off to the side continued to blink in time with my pulse. The match I was prepping for was not the most important match I’d had in Sin City but It was significant. Vinnie had never beaten me, we had a lot of history because of a short-lived feud between me and him. Part of that was because of the influence of Bill B. and his wife Bea.

It’s funny how time changes things, isn’t it? Last year about this time, I brought The Saviors together in response to the formation of Vinnie and Bill as a team along with Bea. She really likes spraying shit in people’s faces for whatever reason. Maybe it makes her feel better about who she is as a person. I won’t speculate and leave that right there. Our disagreements were short-lived, mostly due to the fact that I brought more firepower to bear than you guys were ready for. I’ll never regret the formation of this stable. We’ve done some good things for this company, and that was exactly what was intended. My methods? Sure you can cast shade on that all you want but we got the job done. So, this for Vinnie and me is kind of a full-circle thing. The man has come a long way in my opinion, making amends with Fenris and Aaron for one. That was huge in my opinion.

I remove the black stetson slowly and carefully and place it on a nearby hat rack.

I both lost and won the world title, only to lose it again. Matt Knox “retired” as it were, just prior to my winning it back from him. Now he’s back again, for reasons only known to him. I’ve not spoken to him so I don’t know what his intentions are at this point. I’m sure though that he will make that crystal clear in the weeks ahead.

Removing my hairband, I allow it to drop and cascade across my shoulders.

Masque has been a thorn in my side, the entire time she’s been here. She damn near killed my wife. They made a deal that she quickly managed to break recently. That has forced Amber’s hand to come back. Many won’t think this has anything to do with the task at hand. Bear with me, as it all has ties to what’s going to happen in our future.

I scrub my face with my hands, sweeping my hair back.

I’ve tried to be a better person, and people continue to poke the bear. Masque is not alone in that. There are others who have been critical of me and my time as champion here. So, I think it’s safe to say that I’ll no longer turn the other cheek. There are a number of people who I owe receipts and they’ll get what’s coming to them. The real fun is about to begin in Sin City.  I go from being the hunted to the hunter once again. You’ll know when I’ve been on a tear by the body count I leave behind.

I rip the buttondown shirt wide open to reveal a much more defined body, I’m proud of the work I’ve put in and I’m showing it off.

This was the path that I  asked for from our management team. To start at the bottom and start working my way back. I wanted to climb that ladder back to the top to prove to myself that I still could. I lost that match to Jack Washington and it was a wake-up call.  It told me that I wasn’t quite ready yet and that I needed to double up on how I prepared for my matches. The approach inside and outside the ring.

I finish taking my shirt off.

I’d become lazy and complacent due to my success. Since day one in this company, my name was on everyone’s lips. I took this company by storm because no one knew who I was or what I could do. Do you remember when I told you all that I was a catalyst for change? I’ve fucking proved that every step of the way. I was and still am the man to beat in this company. I don’t care who you are, that’s what you need to know. Whelon better hope that Ken takes that title back from him in that rematch, you won’t like who’s coming for you next.

Glaring at the camera lens, with nostrils flared and adrenaline pumping.

Vinnie, I know you’ve tried to redeem yourself with Aaron and Fenris. Good for you man.

I shake my head in pure disgust.

Good for you.

I seem to tremble just a bit from my anger and outrage.

You’ve never beaten me.

Now I start to pace as my pulse elevates

Will the next time be your chance to break thru?

Then I stop, looking down, and I laugh the fakest laugh ever.

If you beat the former three-time Sin City World Champion, it will be your name on everyone's lips. You will be the one that everyone is expecting to be the next to challenge whoever the champion is.

Breathing heavily, and looking manic I continue, my voice takes on a much lighter tone, almost a whisper.

No, Senor Vinnie.

My eyes take on a sparkle, a light inside them, a smile….

No

I catch myself, my composure returning to a more normal state.

No, not at my expense Vinnie

I pick up my shirt and put it back on.

That world title, waits for my return, or its return to a more deserving owner. Whelan, Davison, or whoever claims it next needs to understand that.

Taking up a hand towel, I wipe away the sweat.

Don’t worry y’all, I haven’t lost my mind. My passion for this company and this industry, sometimes causes me to become a little overzealous.

That dangerous glint in my eye and the feral smile on my face tells a different story. I know what this is and I’m just not speaking of it out loud quite yet. A shark can smell blood in the water from a great distance. I could feel the storm about to begin and I was preparing myself for what was to become.

I’ll say this in closing, Vinnie I have great respect for your skills. As a competitor, I wish you luck in our match because you’ll fucking need it. Unlike you, I’m on a mission to reclaim what was lost. While you are out there trying to please the fans, I’m out there to win a fight. You wanna placate the crowd and I want to feed my hunger for blood. Yours…mine…doesn’t matter to me. I’m a betting man, so I’m betting that it will mostly be yours.

Fade

The Bulldog and the Gentleman Wolf

“You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

{Where We Were}

The question I get most is, “Where are you at, Mac? Where do you go from here.” I always smile and acknowledge the question; my answer is always the same. “I’m right where I’m supposed to be. I’m supporting my wife as any husband should and looking forward to whatever the future brings. It’s not the answer most want to her hear, to be fair and honest about it. The simple truth is, that I simply don’t know the answer to the question. I’ve done everything that there is to do in Sin City. I’ve been a three-time world champion, and I’ve won all the other singles titles that they offer here. I’ve built a dynamic group of stars and watched them flourish. Now my oldest and closest friend is the world champion after beating me. Goth is still one of the top hands in this company. Kat has retired but has taken on duties with The Chronic Chris Page Enterprises as an agent. Miss Melissa is a force to be reckoned with. For right now, my top priority is my wife and what comes next for her.

I’ve also been involved in other things recently, such as helping Fenris through a friend of mine. Well, a couple of friends of mine actually. I was really happy to see that he was cleared for competition after a long road. Spending time with doctors and specialists I know was likely wearing what little patience the man has very very thin. Fenris is another close friend of mine that has been put through hell over the past several months. All thanks to Bill Barnhart and his wife Bea. If I know these two at all, the only thing you’re going to get out of them before this match is deflection and denial. While not terribly bright or original they are consistent. They have told the lie so many times that they believe they’ve done nothing wrong. That Bea did not spray Fenris in the eyes, just like when she tried to spray me in the eyes not so long ago. She missed and I ran her out of the arena.

Bill likes to call himself the bulldog, but it’s more like bullshit. Every time he opens his mouth that’s what everyone smells, bullshit. They’ve labeled this match as the battle of the Brahma bulls or some such crap. The truth is there is only one Brahma Bull in this match and the other is someone's neurotic pet chihuahua who’s addicted to a thunder shirt because it’s the only way he won’t shit his pants when he’s in the ring with me again. If your wife should decide to make her presence at ringside felt, I got a little something for you and her. You should probably have her stay in the locker room Bill, what she’s going to see is not for the faint of heart or the squeamish. I should have demanded this match long ago, after what happened, I feel a little bad about that. That’s why I doubled down on helping Fenris and Aron as much as I could. While others were offering help, you and your wife were celebrating, thinking it was the end of him and his career. Guess what, Slapnuts? He’s not done and he’ll get around to you when he has time. What I’m going to do is make sure you regret every laugh you had at his expense.

---

{The Bane Home - Las Vegas NV - “Roll Call”}

As expected the news of Kraton’s death circulated quickly. Every single member of our support group for veterans was scared and confused by what they were hearing on the news. When they were in the service, all of these folks were involved in an op of some kind. They all had the same common denominator, Frank Spatharos. The news was saying a lot of things about Krayton, but only ten percent of it was actually true. The ten percent that they got correct was around the fact that he was put on medical, and much to the chagrin of his family it was never upgraded to honorable.

When he was in Afghanistan, he had been in a hot zone with me. He had seen his best friend’s life flash before his eyes. Once back on the ship he was still shaken to his core. He sat on the flight deck with his back against the bulkhead watching planes take off and land. He rocked back and forth and was really close to completely losing it. He had been approached by Spatharos and was asked if he was okay. Spathoros got exactly the answer he was looking for when Krayton stood up. Kray yelled at him in his face at the top of his lungs. “NO!!!! I’M NOT OKAY! MY BEST FRIEND JUST DIED BECAUSE OF YOUR INCOMPETENCE!!!” Frank signaled a nearby marine who took Kray down forcibly and managed to zip tie his hands behind his back. He was then loaded on a backboard with a psyche hood over his face. It had been one of the ugliest scenes I’d ever witnessed as an adult. Let’s just say they were not gentle in making sure he didn’t make a move against our executive officer. Unfortunately for everyone involved except for Spatharos, Castello caught wind of it too late. They quickly got him off the ship on a medical evac back to the states. When I would catch up to him years later, he definitely was not the same man I knew. I was actually surprised to find him at all. There was no length that Spatharos wouldn’t go to to protect his own name.

So, now those of us that remained were gathered together to try and piece it together. I started to talk to them to address the situation. “Okay, so scrap what they are saying on the news. Obviously, someone has fed them information that isn’t accurate.” I started ticking the items off on my hand. Starting with my thumb, “First, the woman they show on television has never even been around the man, so how could that be his wife that he supposedly abused, repeatedly?” They all nodded their heads acknowledging that as fact. “Kray was never in Cuba, and certainly wasn’t trained in torture techniques.” I touch my index finger and move along. “He sure as hell was no war criminal.” I touch my middle finger as I look around at them all. It was still tracking with them. Next, I dismiss my ring finger for the next point, “He and his wife molly had no kids together, she passed away shortly after we got back to the states. The final piece was more heartbreaking than the rest, they had claimed that this man had been selling top secret information to Argentina. “As for the story about him selling information to Argentina? He could have sold them his mom’s carrot cake recipe but he never held a top-secret clearance.”

I hear someone clearing their throat and turn to see Jeff Castello, our old Commanding Officer standing there. “Right on all counts, Mac.” To say that I was shocked was beyond an understatement. I honestly didn’t think his bosses would allow him to associate with me at all anymore. Too much bad blood between myself and those people. They’d tried to kill me so many times it was ridiculous and they knew I was still pissed about that. I shook Jeff’s hand, “Welcome to our little meeting, chief.” He smiled nodding at everyone in greeting. Every person had worked for him at some point in their career. Well, I should say they were all under his command. He didn’t know them as I did, but he knew them. As Navy COs go, he was a good one, but when you have that many people you simply cannot commit to everyone’s sob story and do something about it. My case was different from Jeff, because of how public the transgressions were. It was always with a ton of witnesses around. Every single time, my own personal villain attacked me in a way that made him look like an asshole. The power behind him was the scary part. The “Triad” for lack of a better name was the real power behind him. He was doing their bidding and being rewarded for it every step of the way.

“Have you told them about the real power behind him?”, Jeff asked me. I shake my head, “No, skipper, I haven’t. Go ahead, you have the floor and far more knowledge than I do.” He nodded, one of the few times the man had ever agreed with me, causing me to smile. “Fair enough,” he began speaking as I lit a cigarette and tossed the pack on the common table in the middle of the group. One by one they each grabbed one and listened intently as Jeff described the three members of this power base for Spatharos. “The first man on this list is the son of Alexander Van. Joshua Van is the current commandant of the Marine Corp.” He waited for any questions or comments. To a person, the jaws hung open in looks of shock. “Don’t panic yet, it gets worse.” They all slowly clamped their mouths closed. Spatharos is better connected than any one individual I’ve ever seen. It’s bad enough that Van has his back but there are two others. A former four-star General in the Air Force, Jack Maclan was a highly decorated general who fell in disgrace after it was discovered that he had been sexually harassing young cadets. Even now, he has close ties to the government through his vendor contacts such as Boeing. That’s far from the only one. Finally last but certainly not least is the former head of the central intelligence agency, Jake Sporos. He was removed from his position by a former president and still holds a grudge against that man and all of his supporters around the globe.”

Jeff pauses again waiting for comments, but all he gets in return are looks of helplessness. Well, except for me. “I know that Kray was making a lot of accusations and he wasn’t quiet about it and that’s what drew the attention of Spathoros. I’m hoping that if you guys don’t talk about it, he will go away.” He shakes his head, “or at least not draw his attention.” The group quietly nods along with him, accepting that may be their only hope for survival. I shake his hand, “Thanks Jeff, I know you took a huge risk by coming here and I won’t forget it.” He smiled, “Yes you will,” he chuckled, “All of our well beings may count on that.” I agreed, “All too true.” He sighed, “Don’t go after him, Mac.” I nodded, “Understood, I’ll keep my nose down and attend to family things.” He clapped me on the shoulder, “Good man.”

Fade

---

{The Bane Home - Las Vegas NV - “Comparisons”}

The scene opens with me sitting in an office chair.  The same office chair that fans and foes alike have seen a dozen times or more. I had noticed lately that I was spending too much time in my own head. It was one of my many flaws, I was critical of others but more so when it came to myself. I knew that my confidence was lacking these days. I also know that as a wrestling talent I was appreciated here. It wasn’t about that at all, it was about this losing streak that I was on.

Right about now, Bill is full of confidence, and why wouldn’t he be? He knows that I’ve been on quite the losing streak as of late, and based on that he should be confident. See, a lot of people think I’m coming into the twilight of my career. They believe that I’ve lost a step and that my joints and bones are starting to ache. In terms of my health, no I’m not at one hundred percent and probably haven’t been since the day before my first match. October will mark my nineteenth year in this business. Hard to believe that I’m still doing this, isn’t it? Regardless of that fact, I could be coming up on my last match at some point in the near future, but it sure as hell won’t be against you.

The sound of starch rubbing against starch can be heard as I stand up, dragging the microphone up with me as I do.

Bill is one of the old-school guys who like to talk about comparisons. It makes him feel better about himself when he gets to try and flaunt that to the younger guys. The problem here in this match for him is that he is not only outgunned but outclassed. It really doesn’t take much to be honest, he’s got no class to begin with. Wanna talk about stats Bill? Okay, you’re six foot four and two hundred and forty pounds. I’m six foot six and I weigh two hundred and eighty pounds. You’re losing on reach and weight class. Those are not the only stats we should talk about though. I am a three-time sin city world champion, and a former internet and roulette champion. I’ve been a world champion fifteen times in my career if we’re talking about the complete body of work. What do you have to talk about? Well, you’re really good at taking care of your wife’s purse dog. That thing would be a light snack for my dogs, not that I would allow that to happen though. I wouldn’t want them to be near anything that is contaminated with your stench.

Maintaining my calm, and yelling at someone like Billiam is a waste of time and serves no purpose.

But what I have to say about Billiam is not all bad, he’s a hell of a fighter when he’s cornered. He has great ring awareness as any good veteran should. He’s held titles here in Sin City, mostly midcard to low card titles but shit that’s more than some have done. We get people that come in here all the time, the show-up, they lose and they go somewhere else. That’s not who Bill is, I’ll give him credit for being resilient as hell. He doesn’t give up and he keeps coming back for more. I find that admirable to be honest, not many old-school guys are left around anymore. I find that no matter how terrible of a person someone is, they always have some redeeming qualities. Even I have a few, whether it’s recognized by Bill or not. He’s quite the talker though, isn’t he?

I smirk, then shake my head and finally sigh as I go on to the next topic.

So, Bill here’s a little free help for you. My match with Ken, left an additional weakness for you to try and exploit. I have soft tissue damage in my abdomen. I know a number of people just rolled their eyes at my supposed arrogance and stupidity. Why tell someone about an injury? Well, telling them is one thing, them capitalizing on it is another story. I could send him a freaking email with a list of all my injuries and it wouldn’t make a bit of difference. He’s too stupid to figure out a way to attack them. Now, I know that was rather unkind for me to say that. As Fenris would tell you, that is tied too closely to emotion and that in and of itself is weakness. You see, I disagree about emotions. Strong emotions are what drive us, and the passion of wanting to be the very best in the industry is what drives me. It has always been my motivation is that, love of the game so to speak.

Looking directly into the camera, a look full of intensity.

My passion for this industry is unrivaled. I don’t care who you are or who you think you are, you won’t match mine for what we do. See, I’m an old-school guy too. I care about the direction this industry is headed. When you look out at the stands at the people cheering at their favorites or booing the ones they hate….that’s what drives me, that is their passion on display for what we do. I’ve heard people laugh at the fans and call them stupid fucking marks. Not me, even during my darkest days, I never referred that way to the people who pay our bills and make it possible for us to earn a living doing something we love. So when we see each other, you’ll know this Bill. You’ll know that I’m bringing all of my passion with me, supported by theirs. Our fans are among the best in the world and I will not let them down.

I wink at the camera

See ya soon bitch.

Fade

---

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The clock is ticking

“Facing it, always facing it, that’s the way to get through. Face it.”
― Conrad Joseph


Too many distractions and adversity can quickly turn a proven champion into a chump. I knew it in my heart. The distractions were real. I had just won the Sin City World title back from Knox. Life should be golden, right? Nope, not in my life. My wife has decided to quit to help protect people from Masque. I was spreading myself thin in an attempt to block out the noise. To distract me from the matter at hand. Now I was faced with an opponent who is world-class at everything he does.

---

{Hell’s Gate Dojo - Grand Junction, Colorado - “Closure”}

There was a feeling of guilt as I sat in whisper’s office and looked down at the title belt. Whisper and Kat had been watching me the whole time. “This victory seems anti-climactic to me for some reason. Like I didn’t get him at his best.” I hadn’t even realized I’d said it out loud. Whisper smiles pleasantly, “Does it matter?” Kat frowned a bit, as she is known to do. I looked up at them both, “Don’t get me wrong, justice was served, and I took back this.” I raised up the belt slightly from my lap. “More importantly, I hope that I shed enough of his blood to soothe your wounds, Kat.” She nodded but said nothing. There was definitely something going on there but I would not pry. Not right now anyway. A more genuine smile crossed the lips of Whisper as she had been listening into my headspace. “The Wisdom of a sage,” she mused, shooting me a wink. Of course, she was, it was her way and I didn’t mind. “Baby sister, I truly hope that brought you some closure. I hope you’ll be able to move on from that now.” She nodded, obviously still holding something back from me.

She’ll come around when she’s ready was the thought that entered my mind. I nodded, then grunted as I stood up. “Still in pain?”, Whisper asked. I nodded, “Not as much this week but occasionally I still get twinges here and there.” I shrugged it off, “I hope you ladies will forgive me, but I need to step outside and get some air and a cigarette.” Kat smiled and nodded. “Of course, we’ll be here when you come back in,” Whisper murmured to me. I pulled the door open and headed outside. Whisper came out shortly after that, she laid her hand on my shoulder. “You know, in this industry, we are all just living on borrowed time.” I nodded, “We all have a timer, that’s true. It’s just a matter of being smart enough to know when it’s time to hang it up.” She smiled at me, “For a violent man, you are at times very eloquent.” I laughed out loud at her comment, “Glad I don’t always appear to be a buffoon.” She laughed that silvery laugh that she is known for.

“I know you are not happy with that match, it was written all over your face,” she began. “You accomplished both of your goals for that though. It doesn’t make you less for it because of what you think about Knox.” I nodded, but she interrupted anything I might say. “There was a third goal was there not?” I sighed, “Yes, whether it will be enough for him is another question. I’ve given him the tools to correct his course, I don’t know how that will work out quite yet.” She nodded her head, “Well, we can only lead them to a path, we cannot make them walk it. He will have to choose his own way from here.” I accepted that as gospel because Whisper was rarely wrong about much of anything. She was also known to be a good judge of character. She patted me on the shoulder, “And that is why I chose to help you to begin with Mac, underneath all that gruff is a very good man. Never forget that.”

Fade

---

{The Bane Ranch - Port Arthur TX - “Change of hands”}

Amber and I stood on the porch of the “Crooked M” ranch. The sun beat down on us unmercifully as we stared out at the land, now that it was back in our possession. There was hot then there was, “Oh for fucks sakes, why am I out here?” Amber was healing, probably at a much faster rate than anyone suspected. We had been out here for a while and she showed no signs of fatigue. I looked over at her,  “There are few things in life that give me greater pleasure than reclaiming what is mine.” I knew that what I had to say next was a sore subject for her.

“I had taken a deal from the hated Delgado family, based on advice from a friend of mine. It had all been part of a huge sting operation they were doing on this east coast crime family. So many things could have gone wrong, but I was still standing and had reclaimed the SCW World title. That could have also gone horribly wrong, but I’m still here to tell the tale.”

I mused to myself as I told Amber the story of how we got the ranch back. She shook her head and laughed. “So, that’s what that was about? You allowed Jeff to put you in harm’s way. I’ll beat his ass once I’m done healing, you can tell him I said that.”

I chuckled softly as she made her opinion known to everyone in the tri-county area. “Yes ma’am, I will make sure to relay that to him at my earliest convenience,” I said in a tone dripping with sarcasm. She motioned me to move along with the story and so I began…

[sixty days ago]

I was in the Beaumont, Texas Airport for a connecting flight. Catching up on messages and phone calls when my phone rang. I know the number, but she was in protective custody. “Senor Bane.” I paused for a moment, “You know you’re not supposed to contact me, those were Jeff’s explicit instructions, were they not?” I short pause and a giggle could be heard in the background. “I’ll put you on speaker,” she said with a lightness to her voice that I had not heard before. “Mac, it’s Jeff. She had my permission and with good reason, she’s got a gift for you.” I cringed, this could be really good or really, really, bad. Before I responded, I made sure to smile, I didn’t want her to think that I was mad or anything. “Alright, I’m all ears,” I said in the most jovial way I could muster. The reason was simple, she had been through so much. She had been sold into the sex trade by her own husband.

“Senor Bane, are you still with us?” I responded immediately, “I sure am, Mrs. D”. I was then cut off by Jeff, “Miss Garza,” he corrected me. “Of course, my apologies Miss Garza.” She laughed, “That is quite alright, it takes some getting used to. The reason I am calling you is to let you know, that your former property is being resold, and I would like to give you the first opportunity to buy it back.” I smiled, wondering how much this was going to cost me? “Okay, and what is the asking price?” Again I hear Jeff laughing in the background. “My asking price is two hundred and fifty dollars.” If I’m honest, I almost swallowed my tongue. “Now, why would you ask for a penny on the dollar that was paid for it? I’m more than willing to pay you what I paid for it.” Again more laughter from my old friend. “Because if not for you, myself and my children would still be in harm's way.” It was Jeff’s turn to interject, “Mac, do you have any idea of the net worth of her former husband? She got everything he owned in the divorce proceedings.” I absently scratched my chin and allowed a slow whistle to escape me.

“Okay, where do I need to go to finalize this transaction,” I asked them. Jeff spoke first, “In thirty days' time, meet us at the ranch and we can finalize it there.”

[present day]



The deed had been transferred back to me with all rights, which these days was a rarity to be sure. We had spent the last forty-five days undoing the damage that had been done and we still had a long way to go. Progress was progress though, much like my broken friendship with Knox, it was better but still a long way to go. So this was when the real work started. There were various tunnels that had been used to smuggle people into the united states from an inlet about 3 miles from here. Filling them in was already going and surprisingly enough all of my cattle was still here. Maybe being known as “Cowboy”, wasn’t such a bad thing after all. More importantly than all that, I was able to bring all my ranch hands back to work. I still preferred the one that Whisper had given me. “The Harbinger of Violence” however was a story for another day.

They were all gathered around the ranch house, the sun had just come up and they were all looking at me. “Look boys, I wouldn’t blame any of ya for being pissed at me for selling the place, to begin with. I know you guys and gals were collecting unemployment, I’m sure that at least part of you had to pay into the IRS.” There was some low-key murmuring in the group, not really angry murmuring but some commiseration to be sure. “If you did, well, I’m sorry. More than that though, bring me your statements and I’ll make sure you get reimbursed one hundred percent.” I was caught off guard by the gasp of shock from the bunch and I smiled. “Surely you didn’t think I was that big of an asshole. It’s hard enough to make a buck right now, no way I’m going to make you pay twice for my decision-making.”

I smiled again as some of them had huge grins on their faces. “You folks ready to get to work?” They let out a roar of approval and we were all set to work. After they started to head out to carry out their tasks, my foreman, Joshua remained behind. “None of this bunch was ever mad at ya, you know?” I smiled at my oldest friend, a guy that I went through school with from first grade all the way to graduating high school together. “Well, Josh, I know I would have been if it had been me on the receiving end.” He chuckled a bit, “Son, you pay double what anyone else around here does. These folks would have to go work in the refineries to even get close to that kind of money.” He started to walk away, “I get it Josh, and if I can help it they won’t be put in that position again.” I turned around and was walking backward when he responded, “I know Mac, and we’re proud to work at the Crooked M.” With that, he tipped his hat to myself and Amber and got to work.

Looking over at her I said, “What a strange trip it’s been. Long before I started winning championships, my wife at the time, Melissa, and I lived in a studio apartment in Port Arthur. As a second-generation wrestler, I was working indy shows very early on. In between that and then serving my country….let’s just say we were what they would call dirt road poor. So, when I started making good money, that’s when all of this…this dream became possible. When I became a rancher, I didn’t know shit about it or the work involved. This was not a place that had been handed down through generations where I would have gotten all that knowledge from my father or grandfather. I bought this place not long after my first world title reign began. Right before buying this place, I talked to friends from high school who worked at other ranches. Most of these folks.”

I motion off in a vague direction.

“Had been involved with rodeo circuits and such, so they knew their way around cattle. That’s where we started learning together. I lost a lot of money in the beginning as we started figuring things out. It took almost five years of struggle to get this place worked into a productive, working ranch. I’m telling you this story, so you’ll understand that I have no quit in me. I don’t give up, and I have a very blue-collar, never say die attitude. My love, that being said, this is not a shot at you or your desire to quit so that Masque will go away.”

Fade

---

{The Bane Home - Las Vegas - NV - “The plan”}

I really preferred not to be cooked alive, but this was Vegas and it was summer. So, I tried to keep my bitching to a minimum as much as I could. I mean, I grew up bailing hay, I should be used to this but that was a long time ago. I had spent so much of my adult life in milder climates, in some ways that pussified me. I didn’t like that either. Regardless of that, Amber and I were talking about this plan of hers. She said it again, “If I don’t go back, she’ll leave.” I shook my head in dismay and disbelief. I sighed at first, “Red, I think you are misjudging her. I don’t believe for a moment that she will be satisfied with you quitting the business.” Her back stiffened as I challenged her theory. “To me,” I began, “She’s not that type of person.” She frowned at me, “How do you know this won’t work?” I smiled at her, “I don’t know that it won’t work, I’m not trying to be a pessimist here or anything like that, just don’t be surprised if this backfires.” I take a sip of coffee, it had become lukewarm and slightly bitter. We had been out here on the back porch for a while I realized. I don’t even make a face at the taste, I instead take out a cigarette and light it. I chose at that moment to cover up the bitterness with nicotine. I exhaled slowly as I thought of a way to smooth this over.

“Okay Red, we’ll try it your way,” I said finally to break the silence. She nodded, and I knew she was praying that she was right. I was as well, even though I know that people like Masque won’t simply go away until maximum damage was achieved. Mercedes was in for a long fucking night, and it wouldn’t matter whether she won or lost the match. She was simply going to lose, in our house, we had respect for her, too bad it was wasted on a corpse. She was like we all were, just playing a game we couldn’t win on borrowed time. Hers was simply shorter than most. It wasn’t that I didn’t believe in Miss Vargas, it was just the cold brutality of being honest. She was outmatched in this match and everyone knew it but her. As for my own, well if I’m honest about that. I was also probably outmatched as far as most people were concerned. Then again, I was in a place that only a select few could say they had been. I wasn’t supposed to be here at all.

“I remember when I first started in the business, my own father told me that I sucked and I would never be what he was, “A Champion”. It got worse as I started to stretch my wings and visit different companies. I was told time and time again that the best I could hope for was to be a curtain jerker. “ I was just talking out loud and Amber smiled. “Fifteen world title reigns later…not too bad for a curtain jerker.” I smiled in return, “It’s alright I guess. They also said the same thing about me when you and I started seeing each other. That you were out of my league and I was grasping at straws.” She laughed softly, “They were half right,” she said in a sarcastic tone. It was my turn to laugh, “Yeah, you were definitely out of my league, no doubt about that, and you still are, my love.”

Fade.

---

[/center] The Test [/center]

Standing in front of the camera, still having red splotches on my face where the lacerations were healing, albeit slowly. With the world title slung over my shoulder and a grin on my face.

Ben Jordan.

I shake my head in disbelief, not only for this dream match but that I didn’t start that the way I had planned.

My apologies, I got a little excited there. I would be remiss if I didn’t start with the man I won this title from. Matt Knox. The Raven, I’ve said it before and I’ll repeat it, that match had to happen, friend. I know we don’t see eye to eye on many things, but I think that was for the best. I don’t say that because I’ve got the title back. To be honest, I didn’t want it to be a title match. You and I shed damn near enough of each other's blood to float a battleship. Unfortunately, that’s the way it had to be. In order to move forward or close out that chapter, I think we should be on our way, maybe not the way things used to be, but to the point where I don’t want to kill you on site.

My smile remains as I continue.

One of the things that’s always impressed me about Ben Jordan is his honor. I’ll say it again, he’s got enough for four people. Think about it, do you know a lot of people who would turn down a title opportunity because they don’t believe they’ve earned one since coming back? Despite the fact that he’s done everything there is to do in Sin City, he’s a man that doesn’t depend on his past accomplishments to get over with the fans or with the people in the locker room. To put it more simply, he’s just a good human.

My smile broadens at the amount of respect I’m showing the man. I know the praise is justified, a thousand percent justified.

When Ben and I square off there’s a lot more at stake than many would think. If he beats me in a nontitle match, you have to consider him a contender. A win like that elevates him back into the main event.  Then there is more adversity that I become thrust into. I told Mark and Christian that Ken gets the next shot, I don’t care if it causes the entire roster to have apoplexy. That’s the way it’s going to be.

I bow my head for a moment, now with the smile gone.

What about the inverse of that, what if I completely dominate this match?  What if I completely destroy the Cockney King? Does that ruin his legacy? Does it make him less important to the landscape of Sin City? No, not at all. Ben is who he is, that’s a lot to hang your hat on by itself.

I’d forgotten how good it feels to heap praise on another competitor. My return to center feels really good right now and I hoped it showed.

If he beats me he will have beaten one of the most dominant champions that Sin City has had in a long time. I make no excuses for the mistakes I’ve made, I own them all. I’ve made plenty but in long run, I think I’m far better than most will ever give me credit for. That’s not really much, most of the roster gives me no credit at all. 

The smile returns with a hint of remorse.

Being a three-time world champion. It’s rare in most companies these days. I’ve done that in less than two years here. That also means I’ve lost this title twice. Some would like to shame me for that. Except when you consider who I lost to. Alex Jones and Matt Knox, i feel no shame at all for losing to either of them. It’s why I hand-picked both, I love testing myself against great talent.

The smile remains but with a twinkle in my eyes to reveal how much I’m enjoying this right now.

My friend Ken challenged me for this belt. Was it a mistake to accept his challenge so openly? Time will tell, but I don’t believe it is, not because I think I can beat him. He’s another on the roster that has been overlooked. He wants to step up and prove that he is every bit as good as advertised. I can’t fault him for his reasons, everyone wants to chase the gold that I hold. If they don’t then they don’t belong in this business.

I loosen the ponytail and allow my hair to flow loosely as I start getting close to the end of what I need to say.

It all leads back to Ben Jordan, and I mean this in the most complimentary way I can manage. It was me that called you out Ben, and it made you so mad that you went and resigned with Sin City. I know the words I used then were not complimentary, nor were they kind. At the end of the day, you came back and have been trying to reestablish yourself as a main event contender. You were never willing to rest on your laurels or past accomplishments. I’m glad you’re back, regardless of the reasons why.

I tip my black stetson to him and a wink follows.

This place has needed you for a long time, the locker room has few leaders and fewer that can carry this place's torch like you did. I know that you love this company and it’s the only place you’ve ever been. Your passion runs deep for this place and so does mine. It’s the only reason I’m still here. In a lot of ways, I’m the only reason it’s still standing. I gave this place star power, visibility, and most importantly credibility. I’m not ashamed of any of it. I regret nothing I did in the last two years. I regale in it, whether anyone likes it or not. I love the fact that you came out of isolation to shut me up. Thing is, I have a big fucking mouth son. I don’t get shut up or shut down that easy. Respect aside, I’m still YOUR world champion.

Fade.

“You don't adjust. You just dominate.” -  Al Davis

{Unnamed Studio - Lesvos, Greece - “More.”}

[on-camera]
[Monday 8 a.m]

Standing in front of a microphone and a camera; wearing jeans, black boots, and a white “Dominate” Sin City t-shirt, I glare at the camera.

“In case you hadn’t noticed, this is not the face of a happy man right now.” I almost yelled it but caught myself.

I shook my head mostly in anger at the outcome of the match with Fenris.

“This was not the ending we wanted was it, K?”

Shaking my head indicating that it wasn’t and mouthing the word, “No”, I grabbed the podium with both hands tightly.

“Like you and I, the fans wanted more. I don’t feel like they got what they paid for. We may have gone just a bit overboard in trying to kill each other.”

Releasing the podium, the force causing it to rock a little, I spread my arms out wide.

“It’s who we are as competitors though. We are men who are passionate about the fight and to hell with everything else.”

I allow my arms to come back down and rest on the podium.

“So, now the tag team match is set. You and Ben against myself and Chris Page. This is a match that should be on a super show or pay per view, not on a weekly show.”

Leaning forward and testing the weight allowance of the podium I continue.

“This is the go-home show for Into The Void, there will be a lot happening, and the chaos will be legit. So will the violence as we face off again.”

Straightening back up slightly.

“It will be unapologetic and visceral my friend because that is our way. I feel like I can still call you that, despite your opinion of what I’ve done lately. Despite the reason for my making Knox the number one contender. This is not a Twitter beef my man. This is something much deeper and far more personal.”

My facial expression never changes, I’m angry right now and I just can’t let it go.

“Do you remember how angry you and the roster were, when Mercer knocked Aaron out?”

My intensity and hatred are showing much more now as I continue.

“What if I told you that Knox did something far worse. He talks a good game, but he was never going to take this ass whippin he has coming for him without a title on the line. He will not risk anything unless there is the pursuit of a championship involved. That is the unadulterated, unapologetic truth. Period.”

I shrug in indifference, still feeling very angry and I was sure it showed.

“A lot of people had a lot to say about that selection. You, Ben, and he who shall not be named. All talked about a loss of respect and how I had ruined the reputation of this belt.”

I snort in derision.

“But I’m supposed to forget all that right? Not fucking hardly. See the man who cut you off from facing Knox. He couldn’t even score a clean pinfall victory, and don’t even act like that win wasn’t contriverseal. No wonder he’s not running his mouth this week about it.”

I shake my head in disgust.

“Douchebag.”

Fade.

{The offices of Chris Page - Las Vegas, NV - “Putting things in motion”}
[Off-camera]
[6:30 PM]

A few days ago

For a guy with a reputation for his partying, the one thing I could always say is that his office always smelled clean and crisp. I don’t know who did his cleaning, but damn they did a good job. I was seated in the “visitors” seat across from him, nursing a glass of scotch. He offered me a cigar from his collection. I accepted it and ran it under my nose, smelling the fragrance of the stogie made me smile. I bit the end off and lit the cigar. I dipped the butt end in the scotch, adding to the smokey flavor. “You know, Mac, we’ve already done a lot together. Having you in this group is one of the smartest things I’ve done so far.” I barked a laugh at Page, shaking my head, I responded to his comment. “I think that works both ways, Chris, collectively we are driving each other's net worth up at a crazy fucking pace. I mean all of us within the enterprise.” He accepted that as the compliment it was meant to be. One of the things that I had been taught very early on in this business was that no matter how big a star you think you are. You should always be respectful of the men and women who came before you. So, with Chris, I was very deliberate in the compliments and the level of respect I gave him.

“I wanted to follow up on the phone call we had the other day about this event.” He raised his right eyebrow, obviously curious about it. “Okay?” I chuckled at his confusion. “It’s nothing bad, I can assure you.” He seemed to relax and the last thing you want to do is make your tag team partner uneasy. “Shit, Mac, you know you don’t have to have a reason to swing by and talk to me. What’s on your mind?” I nodded knowing it to be true. Chris had been a good friend to me, getting me in positions to succeed and make far more money than I had in a long time. “You know I get amused at people calling CCPE a stable. They’d better count themselves lucky that we are not. We could take over this industry without all that much effort.” He looked thoughtful about that, “That’s not really anything we want to do though,” he said in his nonchalant Chris Page way. “No,” I shook my head, “Not at all my man. That’s what other people think we’re doing though. Just like when I formed the group here in Sin City. Everyone was accusing me of trying to remake the company in my own image.” Page smiled at the comment but prompted me forward. “Very similar to what they accused you of in XWF, ya know?” He nodded again and sighed. “Gets old after a while doesn’t it?” I laughed lightly, “Yeah, just a bit.” I paused for a moment, “That is one of the reasons that this match feels so personal to me.”

Another sip of scotch goes down all too smoothly. I set the tumbler back down on the coaster. That’s when I noticed that just about everything in here is branded with the CCPE logo. He does go all out for everything he pursues. “The other reason is because of the all-out attacks on my integrity when I chose Knox.” He clears his throat, “Which begs the question, of why did you choose him?” Looking up from the tumbler, I leveled my gaze on Chris, “Because he has much to answer for, and I owe him multiple receipts, and let’s leave it at that.” Getting the intent of my tone, he backed off and changed the subject.” When is your flight to Greece?” I gave him a half-smile, “Later this afternoon, which means I need to get going, I still have a few things to do before I leave.”

Fade

{Unnamed Studio - Greece - “Moving the needle and raising the bar.”}

I found myself in front of a camera and microphone set up once again. Dressed down today, no suits, just jeans, t-shirt, sneakers, and Mac Bane t-shirt, along with my usual skullcap. The studio itself smelled for the lack of a better word, “clean”. In the world of Covid-19 and the pandemic, I supposed that was a good thing. At least they were trying to follow protocols. I looked down at the index cards that I had in my hand. I had written out some talking points the night before. Now that I was here though, something inside my brain snapped into place. I stuffed the index cards back in my back pocket.

 “There’s a lot of talk in our industry about moving the needle these days. Some, think they know what that means, while others just assume they do. They all want to be that person, but the vast majority don’t know how.”

Inhaling deeply, I pause for a moment but then I dig into the subject.

“This is something that varies from company to company. It will vary depending on who you talk to. People like Chris and I are needle movers. Men and women with mindsets similar to ours have been the catalyst for change in this industry, time and time again. Every place we go, we are the standard-bearers for success. There are others we area aligned with that have a similar mind set. That’s what CCPE represents.”

A short pause before continuing.

“People have accused Page of making money off the backs of younger talent. What they don’t tell you is the younger talent makes money off the road he had already paved. The business contacts that he has, have made a serious impact on all of our paydays and net worth. Mine has done nothing but climb since day one. Our contracts with the Enterprise are really very simple. Any of us can terminate the relationship with Chris at any time. It wouldn’t ever require a buy-out and a lawsuit if we decide that what he brings to us isn’t satisfactory in our opinion.”

I pull the skull cap off and stuff it in my back pocket. I remove the sunglasses and hang them from the pocket of my shirt. My sense of smell is filled with my own cologne and I smile, mostly because my wife loves this stuff.

“At the end of the day, we all benefit from the relationship.”

Now that the baseline is established for what I want to say, I take it a step further.

“That brings me to this match. For those that don’t know, Ben Jordan and Fenris are icons in this company, and I have viewed them that way since day one. Unfortunately, I’m sure that Ben doesn’t think so.”

I give the camera a small smile.

“Poor Ben is over there thinking about all the disrespect I threw his way when I was trying to drag his ass out of retirement. Sometimes all you have to do is mention someone’s name a single time and they get word of what you said. I didn’t have to keep talking about him as he suggested that I did. Just enough to bring the Cockney King back to American soil.”

I allow the smile to grow a bit before I continue.

“See, it was never about me trying to do anything to this company that was derogatory. I was never out to insult Ben Jordan or attempt to make him less than what he is to this company.”

A full-blown smile appears now as I continue.

“There were and still are far too many mid-card specialists on this roster. Some have left and others are clinging to life support. When they aren’t clutching their pearls that is. They don’t say much anymore and that is by design. You see Gents, I hate mediocrity. I called Ben out as I did get exactly the result I wanted. The more of the roster that is full of elite competitors, the more entertaining the shows become.”

Stare down at my shoes briefly before shifting my gaze back to the camera.

“By getting more 4 and 5-star talent, active on the roster, and fighting for titles, what does that do? It runs the one and two-star talent off to parts unknown. There shouldn’t be any room for the curtain jerkers of the world in Sin City. The payday on this match will be off the charts. That’s what we are supposed to be doing. Making money for ourselves and this company. That is after all that they pay us to do.”

The smile slides into a predatory grin. I feel the muscles ripple under my clothes as my intensity grows.

“And, Yes that is one of the reasons that I tried to lure Matt Knox here. He is a high-level competitor and deserves respect for his complete body of work. Not just the things he has or hasn’t done in Sin City. Many won’t agree with that but I don’t care.”

My facial expression never changes as I take a deep breath and allow what I’ve said to sink in.

“Too many times, I hear the same old genric b.s. about people having not earned their stripes because they hadn’t done it here. That’s crap and you both know it. Stuff like that is such a generic heel promo.”

I shake my head in disgust.

“That would be like me saying that the MMA background that Fenris has, doesn’t mean shit, no matter how many or how few matches he had won. Or that my own service to my country doesn’t matter. The things they taught me to have no bearing on anything that I do. Things like being taught Krav Maga as par of my forward operations training.”

My intensity continues to grow as I continue to fire on all cylinders.

“So, how does any of that make me a needle mover in Sin City?”

I smirk openly now.

“First and foremost, it’s what I’ve always been. All you have to do is take a look at what I’ve done since I’ve been here. Most of you already know what I did by becoming a triple crown champion in this company in a little over ten months. I am now a two-time champion, which has finally brought credibility to this title again. I have raised the bar, I mean, let’s be real here. When was the last time a Sin City World champion successfully defended the title more than twice? It’s been a minute.”

The smirk remains.

“The last time someone defended this strap for over one hundred and twenty days? The same answer, it’s been a while. So, yes I can make the claim that I am the most dominant champion in recent history and will continue to be that going into the future.”.

I allow the smirk to slide away, my poker face takes over from there. It reveals nothing, no anger, no joy, just business.

“The evidence is all right there for all to see. It’s not brag, it’s simply fact. I’m not Knox, I don’t have to talk a lot of shit on social media in order to garner attention. I’ve been one of the constants in this business for nearly two decades. People know who I am.”

Fade.

{Hotel - Lesbo Greece - The season of settling scores}

As I made my way through the hotel lobby, my sense of smell was assaulted by suntan lotion and swet fru fru drinks. “Disgusting.” I continued on through the lobby to the hallway that I knew Kat’s room was in. I started to muse about the situation. I wasn’t amused by it at all. It was just another receipt I owed Knox. I take these transgressions very seriously, I thought to myself, When you have a little brother or sister, someone that you’d trust with your own life. That is when things will go sideways when they start behaving erratically. Their pain, real or imagined will trigger this quite often. Kat is like a baby sister to me, our connection was very real in more ways than one. We were connected through Hell’s Gate and Whisper, sure. It was a deeper connection than that. We understood each other at a far deeper emotional level. When I called her my sister in arms and heart, that has a much deeper meaning to me and to her. I knew she was struggling with the things that Knox and Amber said to her. That’s the game people play though, they’ll say anything to unnerve you or make you look foolish in the eyes of everyone. The problem here is that Kat took the bait, hook, line, and sinker. I knew this from talking to Cy a few days ago. He had to pull her back from a cliff’s edge so that she didn’t fling herself off that mountain. That is how deeply their words cut her, some cuts are nothing more than papercuts. The words of Amber and Knox had taken chunks of her soul. As her brother, I felt the need to try and patch her soul up. She would have to figure out how to force the pieces back together. In this case, I was nothing more than a battlefield surgeon, trying to stabilize her. If only for just long enough for her to get her head straight.

So, I did what any brother would do, I knocked politely on the door. I could hear her talking to someone on the other side. She hung up with them and came to the door. She opened it and her first words to me…

“Fuck.”

I shrugged, “Well, I’ve received worse greetings before.” I smiled at her, she frowned and tried to close the door. I stuck my foot in the door, thank goodness for thick boots. With flip-flops, there would have been enough force to do some real damage. “Katarina…” She finally gave up after a moment and I pushed my way into her room. “What the hell?” I began and her eyes flashed angrily. “You tell me, Mac? What the hell would possess you to align yourself with The Game Changers?” I held up my hands in mock surrender and took a step back. At least her anger made a little more sense now. Not too long ago, over in level up, the Game Changers had viciously attacked Kat during a tag team match. The attack on Kat had literally no bearing on their beef with Lord Raab. Larry Tact called it collateral damage as I recall.  Because the big man was foolish enough to care something about her, they used it to torment him. Most recently, one of them had used a briefcase to get themselves disqualified in order to keep from losing a title to her. She was angry and as she talked, she poked me in the chest to emphasize her point.

“These are the same people who beat my ass not long ago, remember?” (she slammed her index finger into my chest.

I gave her a soft smile, I remember very well, considering I was the one that carried you to the back sometime later.”

Shouldn’t have said that I thought to myself as she began poking me in the chest again, this time harder of course.

“They also got themselves disqualified to keep from losing to me!” The point was emphasized again by slamming her index finger into my chest.

“Feel better?” I asked her in my smart-ass way. “No! I don’t fucking feel better, you asshole!” I smiled at her and then asked a question, “Kat, if you are going after badgers, what is the time-tested strategy to get them?” Her nostrils flared and she started to walk away. I had asked her this question on purpose, because one, I know she knows the answer, and two, it will engage the rational side of her brain. She really needed to reconnect that right now. I folded my arms, “I’ll wait.” She glared at me as she thought this through, likely trying to detect any kind of deception. “You send the dogs into the hole.”

I smiled again.

“Whoof”

The laughter was genuine, but the pain behind her eyes was as well. I softened my own look, “Spill” I said to her softly. She shook her head, no in an emphatic way. I embraced her in a tight hug because let’s face it, I give the best hugs. She began to cry, softly at first, but then the flood gates opened. “The things that were said to you by Knox and Amber?” It was an easy conclusion to jump to. First and foremost is that my wife and Kat had been like sisters for a long time. I knew that what had been said to her had gotten under her skin. Knox though, that was a pain that would literally take years to heal. I started to whisper in her ear the tenants of the Arch Angels of Hell’s Gate, much like Cy did with her on that mountain top. She was simply one of the toughest and most fragile women I’d ever known. “You ARE my sister of heart and arms,” I whispered to her. “You are the only woman on this roster that can say that they have beaten Masque DeLuna.” The last part I whispered much more fiercely to her. Not only to turn her confidence up a notch but to reinforce that she is a badass and deserves to not only be here in Sin City but that she had earned her spot in the Saviors. After the sobbing had receded, she began rubbing away the streaks the tears had left on her face. I grabbed a nearby box of kleenex and handed it to her. “I think this will be a bit more effective.”

Fade

{Limelight Studios - Lesvos Greece - “The final cut”}

The studio had been set up for me, I entered the booth with the sound of denim rubbing on denim. The Sin City World Title was slung over my shoulder and a smile on my face as it drew closer to the tag team event. I took a seat on the stool that had been set up for me. I put the headphones on and the producer said in my ear, “We are ready to begin when you are.” I nodded acknowledging what he had said. I signalled to him to begin rolling. The recording light came on over the door out of the studio, and the session began.

“And here we are boys, just days away from a match that features legends in their own right. On one side you have two gentlemen that have made their legacy and their reputation in Sin City Wrestling. They are respected, liked and one could say even revered.”

Pausing their for a moment, I take a sip of water to fight off the dryness I was feeling in my throat.

“On the other side of the ring, you have two men, who have made their legacy, virtually everywhere else in the world. Don’t get it wrong, I’ve made a name for myself here in Sin City. I’ve been champion here for right around one hundred and thirty days as of this show coming up.”

I pause and smile at the camera.

“Where Ben and Fenris are both men who held it longer, not in recent memory but they are a huge part of the company legacy. Fenris held this title for two hundred and forty-give days. One of the longest reigns in this companies history. Ben Jordan? Less than that but not by much at two hundred and thirty days. Both impressive runs. Only Kris Ryans came close to either of them.”

I hear a low whistle in my headphones and I laugh.

“The producer was impressed as well. Of course, it’s not recent history, it’s just history. Things that happened in 2018 and 2019 are worth mentioning but not relevant in 2022.”

I heard the producer in my ear, “Ouch, that’s a bit savage.”

His comments unheard to anyone else amuse me. “I think I’ve got a new fan.”

“Respect? Yeah, I got a ton of that for both of you. Sadly, that only goes so far. As you know, Fenris, when I look across that ring and see you. I’m not looking at a respected peer in this industry. I’m simply looking at the next guy I’ve got to beat the shit out of.”

I shake my head, then get another sip of water.

“It’s just the way I am, even under friendly or normal circumstances. I’m not in that ring to win a match. I’m there to win a fight. That’s why, and even SuMa would tell you. Every punch, kick, slam that I deliver is intended to take you out of the fight. Or, to take the fight out of you.”

I level my gaze at the camera.

“I know before we faced each other last time, I had asked you to not make this personal. You decided for whatever reason to ignore my request. You chose violence. That’s the reason the match didn’t end when the bell rang. That about right?”

My gaze never falters, I set my jaw and continue.

“There are so many factors that make the results of this match far more important than they should be. See, when I was younger. I made people pay the consequences for things they said to me. Then I spent some time receiving the adulation of the crowd and my peers. None of that mattered before.”

I shake my head in disgust.

“I am back to where I was almost a decade ago. I tune out the crowd, their cheers or boos have zero effect on me or for me now.”

Holding the belt up and off my shoulder.

“This is what matters, defending it with everything I have. Not just for the sake of my own legacy or reputation. It’s a central theme to the things I’ve said. It’s about this company and making it a place that people want to come to. In order to do that, I’ll continue to run the curtain jerkers out of here as fast as I can.”

Setting the belt back in place, I continue.

“So, now…every match I’m in is about defending this strap and my own honor. My integrity was questioned. Now someone has to pay the consequences for those words. I only accept payments in blood.”

Fade.

Vs SuMa for the world title.


“There are very few monsters who warrant the fear we have of them.” - Andre Gide


{Unnamed Studio Somewhere in Greece - “Clearing the air”}

Standing in front of a camera, accompanied by a boom microphone looming overhead I smiled at the camera. I was dressed in a slate gray suit, not Armani or anything so obnoxious. A pink handkerchief and tie, along with alligator shoes to complete it. I wore my hair loose today, with no ponytail or cap. It was an attempt to make this as professional as possible.

For those of you expecting an explanation of why I chose Knox as the new number one contender, you’ll be extremely disappointed in me once again.

My smile is now almost beaming as I chuckle slightly under my breath.

What I will address though is the reaction of other so-called stars. I’ll have more to say on this at the next Climax Control. Fenris is not a so-called anything.

I shake my head and almost lose my smile, but it’s reinforced now as if it was made of steel.

I never at any time disregarded you to challenge for this title. Quite the opposite, you are in my top three that I want to face.

Fade

{The Bane Home - Las Vegas, Nevada - “The Sanctity of Marriage” }

A few weeks ago

There are few things that can rock me to my core, and yet here I stood, overwhelmed. Not overwhelmed by the job of defending the title. It was something far deeper than that. A feeling of betrayal swept over me. That feeling you get when something happens and it sends your heart into your stomach. A nearly uncontrollable urge to vomit because your reality has been so completely shattered that you are not sure you trust yourself to speak. Cheap cologne intertwined with the cinnamon perfume flooded my senses. I knew the cologne and who it belonged to. I looked down at the hamper where Amber had deposited her clothes from the trip. I shook my head in disgust not quite believing the painting that my mind was created with broad brush strokes. I sighed heavily, “Anyone but him, Red.” At that point, I could have lost my temper and trashed the house. I wouldn’t do that today, I knew what I had to do after Mikah and I finished winning the Blast from the Past tournament. I would wait, I would bide my time and then I would bleed him dry. I would kill everything that was Matthew “The Raven” Knox. Then I found my voice.

“I will ruin you, Knox.”

Present Day

After naming Knox the number one contender, I had achieved something that few thought possible. Even though the Saviors had decimated this roster, all the terrible shit I’ve done was nothing compared to when I named him the number one contender. What did I do in return? Not a damn thing, I’m not someone who explains themselves. There was only one person that made a comment that bothered me.

“Fenris, thinking he had been disregarded,” I shook my head, “Not a chance fella, not a chance in hell,” I said these words as I happened to walk by the hamper, the smell was gone but not the memory. “Yep, that one is gonna sting for a while,” I said those words as I made my way to the back door. Stepping into the morning air, while still a little cool, was not unpleasant. Bare to the waist, I sat down in my usual place, setting my coffee cup down, I then retrieved my pack of cigarettes. I lit a cigarette and then focused on my coffee. “Funny, the things you will disregard because of who says them.” I thought back to the claim that SuMa had made on social media. “Another secret discovered,” he had claimed. He had been insinuating a relationship between Amber and Knox and of course, I just brushed it off, because why would I believe a man that would go to any extremes to get what he wanted.

That poor brutish bastard, so droll and predictable. Challenging me for my title after that little distraction. I had anticipated it and was ready for it, just as I was ready for the man who called himself a monster. I didn’t consider him that at all, a troubled soul but not a monster. A man with some obvious mental issues, mainly being a psychopath. “SuMa, you hit every bit as hard as I do, I’ll give you that. You just don’t understand the danger that awaits you. You will, but not yet.”

Fade

{Unnamed Studio Somewhere in Greece - “The Truth”}

continued from the previous part called “Clearing The Air”

I continue to smile as I start to get to the heart of the matter, nodding my head quickly I almost laugh.

The Supreme Machine!
SuMa!

The monster of Sin City Wrestling!



I pause for a moment to breathe and relax my smile just a bit.

Or as I like to call him, Tom Rivers. See, the big man has been walking around for years, claiming that titles didn’t matter to him.

Raising my right arm, I begin to shake my finger at the camera.

Tsk, tsk Tommy. You’ve been telling that lie for a long time, son. It’s not something new, you’ve always liked the gold in the belts.

I smirk at the camera and lower my hand.

What SuMa would like you to believe is that he’s just out there taking things away from people in order to cause them pain. Right?

I shake my head in disgust.

The truth is that, once he got a taste of the gold and what goes with it, he became greedy. Yet he continues to lie to anyone who will listen. Isn’t that right, Tommy?!

Staring down at my shoes for a moment, shaking my head again, I look back up. More intensity this time, less of a smile.

So, the question has been asked, why did I really bring the big man to Sin City? What he would say is so that he could manage the things that I wouldn’t. He would do what I would not. He was brought here to do all my dirty work.

I stare at the camera and then roll my eyes.

Are you starting to see a trend here? He wouldn’t know the truth if it bit him in the ass. It’s just another lie to deflect and mislead people.

I cock my head to the side.

SuMa knows the truth of why I asked him to join me here. The first part of it was to take out the garbage in this company. To run all of the mediocre talents out of here to help make Sin City a place where the elite come to chase glory. A place where people could achieve clout.

The intensity remains but a smile threatens to tug at my lips.

The second part of the equation is a little more amusing. Well, amusing to me in any event. He was bait.

I openly smile about this, chuckling under my breath I continue.

As funny as that sounds, Masque’s songbird took the bait hook, line, and sinker.

I laugh out loud, throwing my head back and howling with laughter, then abruptly I stop.

the guy that thinks of himself as a supremely cerebral wrestler got played. He hates me right now for it, I guarantee.

Then amusement is now completely gone, and my eyebrows furrow.

Those Rivers boys are something else, ain’t they? Both made to look like foolsl. Both were angry at me, not as angry as the rest of the roster but pretty close. 

I smirk at the camera again, I run my hands through my hair to slick it back again.

All of this began because the biggest goof on the planet couldn’t remain focused long enough to win a match. The supremely evil and disciplined warrior couldn't keep his eyes on the prize. Amazing. So, when he challenged me of course I was going to accept it.  It didn’t matter if I caused a distraction or not, G was gonna win that match regardless. I did it just to fuck with you. Mostly because you are so very predictable Tommy. Well, that and because I can.

Fade

{The Oblivion Garage - Las Vegas, NV - “A man of the cloth?”}

Amber and I had been in the garage for only a short time, as we looked around, it was easy to see I hadn’t been able to do much in the way of the rebuild. I knew she was fighting her own demons inside her own head, so I stayed close, holding her hand and giving it a gentle squeeze every once in a while. She returned it, and even glanced up to give me a reassuring smile. Originally we were supposed to reopen in April but that had now been pushed back until late summer at the earliest. It was a little disheartening for both of us but we knew this required patience. That word, patience, if it was a virtue, it was one she would definitely have to live without. Her patience in general was pretty slim but when the “priest” showed up, her teeth were set on edge immediately. I gave her hand another squeeze and she physically relaxed a bit.

When he offered, I shook the man's hand. A hand that was smooth, no calluses, a firm grip but he had skin like a pampered girl. His suit that he wore was expensive, to call it immaculate would be an understatement. The man looked like he was ready to walk the red carpet in hollywood. After the pleasantries had been exchanged, then came the offer of money. I brushed that off, because Amber and I could retire today and not need a thing for the rest of our lives. Resources though, that caught my ears and they perked up. Amber and I both knew there was a catch. She knew him from somewhere in her past. He had a way about him, the way he talked and even walked that screamed snake oil peddler and i didnt’ like it. Those kinds of things leave me reaching for my pistol and on high alert. I didn’t though, especially because of his parishioners that were in attendance as well. The way they carried themselves, spoke volumes to their confidence. The slight bulge of a jacket pocket, the man who was obviously his second in command. He was armed, then I surmised that the rest of them likely were as well.

There were roughly twelve in total, body guards, what had this man done in his life to need a complete security detail. I listened as he explained the nature of their relationship, former business partners. That meant Del Gado I’m sure, I thought to myself. I never allowed my smile to slip as he continued to talk. With all the pleasantries out of the way, he asked Amber to walk him out. I stayed put for a moment to allow them their conversation in privacy, plus I wasn’t entirely sure of these armed men and if they would simply gun me down for trying. So, being as respectful as I could, I watched them retreat with the guards leading the way out for McCrae.

She had walked McCrae to the edge of the garage doors, I watched her as she watched him. She was nervous about the arrangement, which begged the question of what her association with him really was. I could ask but I decided to let it play out organically, if she chose to tell me or not, I would try to find a way to be okay with it. I walked up behind her as she seemed to still be lost in thought, wrapping my arms around her from behind, “Penny for your thoughts.” I said quietly, her response was as I expected, dripping with sarcasm and self-deprecation, “I’m not sure they are worth that much.” She went from extremely tense to relaxed as we stood there watching his retinue go on their way. “Yep, I’m sure I hate him,” I said with slight amusement in my voice. She leaned back into me a little, “Mac, you only just met him, just wait until you get to know him.”

Fade

{Shipwreck Cove - Zakynthos - “Coming to terms”}

The rocking of the charter boat, the smell and sound of waves lapping against its hull gave me a sense of peace. That’s what I needed right now, time to think and breathe. My mind was so full of conflict that even focusing on Whisper at times was not helpful. The day before I had been up on the platform that overlooks the cove or Navagio Beach as some called it. One of the locals told me that it was a great view up on the cliffs but it was far more so on the beach itself. So, I find myself now on this charter, the captain assured me that this was the least busy time of the day. I paid him extra not to bother with the other stops along the way.

I sat near the front of the charter boat, Captain Pappas had named her the minnow as a joke but the name stuck and he never changed it. That captain and his boat navigated as smoothly as the sea allowed. His first mate, Shelly, I found out she was an american who came here on vacation and just never went home. A rugged woman, physically strong and skin that was lightly weathered from too much time on the ocean. She approached me as I was enjoying my surroundings, “You seem at home out here.” I nodded and showed her my United States Navy ring. “I’m an old salt, but yeah, the sea has always been a happy place of sorts for me.” What I told her was the absolute truth, I had loved my time in the Navy and being out on an open body of water made me far happier than most of the things in my life. The sole purpose of this trip today was for myself, no camera opportunities for the companies I work for. I was being greedy for me, for a change. I needed this to make sure my head was straight on what I was doing and more importantly why.

some time later

I stepped off the smaller boat and waved to the first mate as she headed back to the “Minno” and stepped on white sand. I quickly came out of my boat shoes and began making my way across the beat. I turned and marveled at the view. White sand and crystal clear water, it put me in mind of postcards I’d seen in my life. Those postcards really didn’t do it justice though. Greece was absolutely stunning and I wasn’t sure I actually deserved to see something like this. I had about an hour before the scheduled tour would begin and so I made my way towards the wreck of the MV Panagiotis. It had been, according to literature, a one hundred and fifty-seven foot cargo vessel.  The story went that they were smuggling cigarettes and other things for the Italian Mafia. They had run it to ground in order to try and escape the Grecian Navy. That was all back during the eighties, “Crime just doesn’t pay, I guess,” I muttered to myself as I approached the wreck. It was the wreck that had brought me here to begin with. The husk of metal on the beach, it had various animals using it as a home of sorts. It reminded me of SuMa in a way.

“I’ve often wondered what it would take to quiet the monster and let the man behind it out and into the open.”

I already knew this from his wars with Knox, I was there for the majority of them. If you could exhaust him, he was vulnerable to more than physical damage. Matt had told me of the conversation they had while in the hospital. I knew that at times Tom could be brought forth, he had a way of overpowering SuMa from within. I also knew that he thought this was going to be easy, he believed that he could overwhelm me like our previous meeting. I was different then, he was hellbent on my destruction. “I don’t die that easy Tommy,” I said with amusement. He had no clue how much I had evolved, he would find out very soon. He had forgotten about how easy I put him down when he crossed the line with me. My strategy would be simple, it was going to be a bull fight, it wouldn’t have a matador just two bulls slugging it out. I had seen enough here and knew what I had to do.

“Slay another monster. I never grow bored with that.”

That meant I would have to stand toe to toe with a man whose strength was every much as powerful as my own. Perhaps stronger when he was enraged. That was the difference between us overall. When he became enraged he made mistakes, when I became enraged, I simply grew stronger. I arrived a couple of days early and hadn't been to the hotel yet, that would be my next stop. It was time to check on Amber and make sure she was okay. I looked around and took my shirt off. I decided to go for a swim while I was waiting.

The warmth on my back felt good, and as I was about to make my way into the water I heard a voice from nearby. “You don’t want to swim here sir,” off to my left I spotted a woman who I thought might be in her early twenties. I stopped where I was, I could see the drop off a few feet away. She started approaching me, deeply tanned skin, dark hair, pouty lips and a sway to her walk that would stop any man in his tracks. “Why is that?” I asked with a smile. She pointed out into the water, “You’d be disturbing the babies.” I watched the newly hatched turtles had taken to the water. “This is a protected habitat for them and the seals.” I looked around and saw the seals hanging out on the rocks and I smiled. “That’s okay, the boat that brought me here will return shortly,” I said without much thought to it. “Ah, that must be your dingy approach now.” I nodded, “Yes ma’am that would be it.” “Ma’am? How old do you think I am?” I laughed, “I see my good manners have gotten me in trouble once again.” She smiled, blushing slightly, “Sorry” she said sheepishly. I waved it off, “It’s okay, in America we would refer to that as a Texas thing.” She studied me for a moment, “Is everything bigger in Texas?” she asked as she was staring at my crotch.” I smiled, “Yes ma’am, sometimes they are even bigger than the ego’s of the men, not usually but sometimes.”

“Are you staying in Zakynthos? The hotel near the venue for your show?” She asked me as she shifted her gaze up to my eyes. I nodded, “I am.” She smiled a coy little smile, “Maybe I’ll stop by there and buy you a drink.” I brought my left hand up, showing her my wedding ring, “I’m afraid that would not be a good idea, my wife and I don’t share.” She actually pouted at me, then I was saved from any further damage to my soul by the arrival of Shelly in the dingy. “Mr. Bane, we’re all set,” she called. “On my way,” I called back. “Ma’am it was a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” I said to her as I made my way to the small boat that would take me back to the Minnow. Shelly, obviously amused, said to me as I got in, “Looks like I arrived just in time.” I didn’t comment at first. “That young lady has been trying to get in the pants of every man we’ve brought out here whether they are accompanied or not.” At that point I chuckled, “She better be glad my wife wasn’t here.”

Fade

{Hotel Bar - Zakynthos, Greece - “Things and Stuff”}

After my trip to smugglers cove or shipwreck beach or whatever it was called, I found myself here on the patio. The food here was amazing and I drifted away from food and to Ouzo. Not the smoothest in the world but I wasn’t here for the enjoyment of the flavor. I was here very specifically to get drunk. I had checked our room before coming down here and the smell of cheap cologne had hit me again. That motherfucker had been in our room. Again my anger had flared, I had calmed myself long enough by saying that there was still no evidence that there was an affair going on. Then I had another Ouzo, in talking with some of the wait staff and other locals they loved the fact that Sin City was here and doing shows in Greece. “Lad,” an old man said to me with a face full of mirth. “Who the hell came up with the Greece Lightning Tour?” and we all laughed. “Suits always make those decisions,” I started and they all laughed again. Slapping me on the back and commiserating that all bosses were dumbasses. I went outside to smoke and found myself sitting in a chair with a table nearby for my Ouzo.

I lit a cigarette and inhaled deeply. Another round arrived, then another, and then a third. I arched my eyebrow in a very Leonard Nemoy kind of way and the bartender let me know, “The boys like you.” she winked as she went back into the bar area. I smiled as I killed them one after another. The burn was amazing and so was the cloud that was filling my brain. I started thinking about things again and it hurt my soul, but I would survive. I always did, no matter what someone did to me, rather it was on purpose or not. “Fuck me, that’s good liquor.”

The last time I had them checked, my bar tab had reached somewhere around three hundred dollars in american currency. I noticed the sun had gone down, “Hmph, didn’t think I’d been here that long” I said with a slight slur to my speech. I looked up at the bartender who was bringing more Ouzo and smiled at her. She looked at me, obviously amused at my current condition, “You really should go up to your room and sleep it off.” My smile grew broader, “Aye, I probably should but wouldn’t want to wake the wife up.” She smirked at me, I’m afraid there may not be a choice, we’ll be closing soon.” I laughed at the comment, “Well, then I should probably pay my tab.” She left and I slugged the Ouzo down without hesitation. I dug my card out and paid her when she returned. I signed for the amount and slipped a couple of hundred dollar bills in for a tip.

I slapped my knees with both hands, “Okay! Here we go!,” I said admittedly louder than I intended but it got the proper amount of laughter from the other patron. “You’re welcome, I’m here all week” With that I started to make my way to the inner hotel area, I knew I was weaving a bit. Someone had asked me if I was okay, “Of course, I’m just reacquiring my sea legs.” I finally found myself at the foot of the stairs, “An elevator would be a good idea right about now.”

More laughter as I heard the ding of the nearby elevator, then I laughed too because I had walked right by it. Then I worked my way to the elevator and a young man who obviously had experience with drunk people helped me along. I exited the elevator and made my way to our room. I entered the room and that was the last thing I remembered until I felt someone tugging on my belt. Through bleary eyes, I could make out the outline of a female but I couldn’t see her clearly enough.

“Excuse me, madam, I’m a married man!” I managed to bellow drunkenly. That’s when I heard the giggle and the smell of cinnamon filled my nostrils. Then I passed out.

Fade.

{Undisclosed Greek Restaurant - “Truth part 2”}

I sat in the same restaurant that I sat in last night, with coffee this time instead of Ouzo. I had showered but was wearing cargo shorts and a t-shirt. I set the SCW title on the table. I took a sip from my coffee cup.

They say that truth will set you free, I thought to myself as the camera began to roll. We’ll see if that’s true or not. My head was still spinning a bit and I’m sure what I was about to say was going to come out just a little growly. Not that I cared in the least, but we generally try to make these things at least appear professional. Not today….


So, I’d be remiss if I didn’t talk about the fact that SuMa could in fact beat me for this title.

I pointed at the title with one hand and moved in front of me with the other.

He wants to take this from me because he believes it will cause me harm.

I shake my head in response to that statement and mouth the word no.

Wrong again, It’s a title belt. Take it from me and I’ll win it back again. Hurt me and I’ll heal. The title belt does have value.

I stared down at the belt.

See, world titles or lack thereof don’t define me. I’ve won world titles on fourteen different occasions. Not a single one of them made more of a man than I am.

I take a breath and another sip of coffee.

It didn’t make me a better wrestler than I already was. Sure, it brought more money. I’ve been added to multiple halls of fame.

I pat the belt and position it on my shoulder.

I’ve held it since December nineteenth of last year. I know you believe this will be easy that I’m the same man I was when we faced off in OCW. You know, before they shut the doors and started over?

I smirk at the memory of it.

Sure, I’ll give you credit for a match that was never televised. I mean you did win the match. Nothing was really at stake in that match, was it? You held a hardcore title but it wasn’t on the line.

My gaze hardens severely.

This title is on the line though, and that matters to me, to have someone who wouldn’t know a wristwatch from a wrist lock beat me for a title that exemplifies wrestling would be unacceptable.

My facial features relax somewhat but the intensity is still very visible.

It could still happen, you’re a big man, you call yourself a monster but are you?

A smile tugs at the corner of my mouth.
you see, Tom believes that I brought him here to be the monster.

My smile blooms and I chuckle. Shaking my head in disgust.

No Tom, I was always the monster, always the enemy. You’ve never caught onto that fact. You never even considered that to be true.

I shake my finger at him again.

One of the many mistakes you’ve made with me.

I lower my hand and rest it on the table.

You underestimated me at every turn though, haven’t you? I told you not to harm non-combatants. You thought that nothing would happen as far as consequences are concerned.

A predatory smile is now more present.

I dropped you on your head for that. You told the entire world on social media that harm would come to me but not at your hands.

My facial expression doesn’t change.

Another lie, but it’s nothing new, is it? I don’t know about anyone else but it’s become apparent to me that the Rivers line is thick with sociopaths. You boys wouldn’t know the truth if it bit you.

Another sip of coffee and I dig out my pack of cigarettes.

You’ll however justify it to the world that it’s your perspective and that’s how you measure truth.

Lighting a cigarette, I lean back, tipping the chair back so my head rests on the wall behind me.

See, that’s a problem, too often people like you live in your own little world. Not reality.

I lean the chair forward and set the belt back on the table.

That’s a you problem, not a me problem, SuMa.

Smiling I stand up with the belt in hand.

So, the next time we meet, Tom, it will be the last time. You tormented a man’s family. Women that had done nothing to you. You caused one of them to miscarry. I’m sure that you feel vindicated, that you have done the world a favor by causing that. You say that all of his children will be just like you and him.

My grip tightens on the world title.

That’s not your decision to make, Tom, you don’t get to choose who is strong and who is weak. That is entirely on the parents. If there is any justice in this world, they won’t be as weak as the two of you.

I sling the title over my shoulder.

My plan is very simple, SuMa. I’m going to break you. I’m going to make sure that I get through to Tom Rivers. I’m going to end your reign of terror over Tom. If that doesn’t work, well, then I’ll just end you.

Fade.

BFTP - Karma


‘I'm different, think you know hell? Well, I'll show you it
I was born in hell, the devil knows me well, I'll return with a list like Moses did” - Nova of The Hangover Gang.

{Unnamed beach, San Diego, CA - “Resetting Expectations”}

[Tuesday - On-Camera]
[7 A.M.]

I sat on the beach, watching the tide roll in. Everything came rushing at me, the swell of emotions. I could still hear her, “Don’t fucking touch me.”, towards the end of the fight. I wasn’t upset about that. The thing that bothered me most was the lies that she told so casually. I wasn’t sure that I could still trust her with anything right now. The crew from SCW came out here at my request and my expense. I looked up at the producer who signaled they were ready.

“Where do I even start. Well, that’s really the easy part.”

I pick up the world heavyweight title from my bag and lay it across my legs.

“It always starts and ends with this. Which means that it always starts and ends with me. I am the wearer of this belt, regardless of what anyone thinks, it doesn’t define me.

I remove the title from my lap and set it in the bag again.

“I define how much that fifteen pounds of gold means to everyone else. I’m the one that makes it relevant. To the point that men are coming here for a shot at me. Raven, JC, Jaycee and the list goes on. They all want one thing. Whether you are a rookie, looking for the rub that only I can provide. The middle aged hero that thinks he’s gonna save everyone. The old man that wants to hold championship gold again. Last but certainly not least the part time wrestler who only shows up for tournaments. He thinks that’s his thing that he does better than anyone else. ”

I lower the title back into the bag, never allowing my smile to waiver.

“He’s right as well, Mark Cross is great in these types of scenarios. Last year he was who I faced in the finals. I lost that match, I always try to give respect where it’s due. The Dragon Mark Cross is a hell of an athlete, as is his partner. I’ve known  Kat Jones for many years, she’s like a little sister to me. A lot of people are calling this the real finals, which I find amusing but I do appreciate the sentiment behind what they say.”

I look back out at the horizon, a wistful expression.

“Matthew, it should have been you and Amy in this position against Mikah and I, but you had to go and fuck that up. Sure, you can blame it on your partner, that’s expected, but just like when you lost that tag match in another company. The failure is because you weren’t paying attention to your surroundings. That’s two losses in one week, are you sure your ego can survive?”

I allow the smile to return, having amused myself for the moment.

“Mark, Mikah, and I are the only thing standing between you and a third consecutive run to the finals. Let me reset your expectations for you. Not his time chief. How does it feel? Knowing you’ll be facing the guy that took the world title from you and the woman who hates your guts. As I told you on social media, your only saving grace is who your partner is. She’s the only thing that gives you any class at all.

I give the camera crew a self-satisfied smirk.

“Speak of which, I need to go to Colorado. Some agreements should never be broken. Especially when it comes to family.”

Fade.

{The Bane Home - Las Vegas, NV - “The Phone Call a.k.a. Another Fight”}
[Last Wednesday- 2 AM]
[off-camera]

There’s nothing quite like being woken up at 2 in the morning by your wife who is in Atlantic City and drunk out of her mind. When the phone started playing her entrance theme, I looked at the phone. “Two in the morning, Red,” I muttered. I sat up on the side of the bed. I slid the slider over and put her on speaker while I pulled my jeans on. “Mac?” I heard her ask through the speaker. “Yes love,” I answered, trying my best to put a smile in my voice. As she began talking, her speech was so slurred that I could almost smell the bad booze she’d been drinking. Buttoning my jeans and pulling a long sleeve shirt over my head. I heard her pause, “Are you still there, Mac?” I quickly picked up the phone, “I am sorry for the silence, I’m just listening…didn’t want to interrupt you.” I knew this separation was difficult for both of us. She hadn’t been gone a week and I was already in a bad place. She continued to talk and I heard her pause again, take a drink, and exhale loudly. Just like the day she left, I said nothing. At least not until I was sure she was done.

“Are you going to say anything at all,” she asked and I knew what was coming next. “Red, if you had told me about this from the beginning…” Then I heard her begin to cry, it wasn’t an ugly crying followed by sobs, I knew that it took a lot of effort to get her to that point. I could hear it in her voice though. why the fuck do people do this to themselves? I thought to myself. “Amber, I’m a fucking tank, there was never a reason to fear for my safety. We are supposed to be a team.” No response, so I picked up the phone and started towards the kitchen and began making coffee. As I was making it, I said to her, “How long has that title meant more to you than our marriage?” Again there was nothing but silence. Pretending like it was nothing, I continued by telling her about what I had done in regards to the Del Gado family. She only interrupted slightly with “Fuck!” said every once in a while. At least I was getting through to her now so I kept the conversation going, even while I was making my coffee, my mind was ahead of me. I told her about Del Gado’s wife playing stow away in the back of my Silverado and how she was working with the feds to try and nail him. Jeff couldn’t talk to me anymore about it as they were trying to keep me far from that investigation.

Another drink, another profanity-laced tirade from her. After she calmed down a bit, I finally asked her. “Are you planning on coming home any time soon?” There was a long pause and then she said, “Mac, I love you but I don’t know when I’ll be back or even if.” “I love you too, Red” I disconnected the call and sat down on the kitchen floor. I cried for the first time since I buried my wife, Melissa. Just like when she was dying from cancer, not knowing is the hardest part. With Melissa, it was not knowing how much life was left for her. With Amber, it was not knowing how much life was left for me. She couldn’t have hurt me anymore if she had just cut my heart out with a spoon. Even the cold tile floor provided no relief from the storm that was building in my heart. That’s when I started drinking….

Fade

{Hell’s Gate Dojo - Junction, Colorado - “Brutal Honesty.”}

[Thursday Morning - 7AM]

If you get the opportunity to go to Junction, Colorado in February…don’t. From the time I got off the plane until now, standing in front of the Hell’s Gate primary entrance door. I was cold to the bone and wet. Not a great combination. I was only here because this is what I agreed to do. Kat must have sensed something was wrong with me and she was right, ever since the fight with Amber, nothing felt right. I was starting to question my decisions, professionally and personally. In my position that was not a good place to be. The more I thought about the fight the more angry I became. I crushed out the cigarette in the ashtray near the door and stepped inside. Kat was already there, and so I made my way where she stood talking to Kim and Whisper. She spotted me but didn’t head my way right away. So, I made my way to her, I knew she had been injured the night before in a match in another company. All three women looked at me, the weighing and measuring of them was something I had grown accustomed to. They were deciding internally whether I had lost anything they had taught me. One thing that was a constant with me was my intensity. They all smiled and nodded and I gave them a hug one at a time, being careful with Kat, knowing that kind of pain all too well. I spotted a step stool nearby and grabbed and set it next to me.

“Just in case you decided I deserved a smack in the head.” I smiled at Kat watching her try not to laugh. Kim laughs out loud, “Cruel, Brother!” Kat climbed up on the step stool and smacked me in the back of the head. “That’s for trying to make me laugh!” She said as she stepped back down. Whisper motioned for everyone to go into the office as she headed that way. We all stepped into the small office and took a seat. Kat was last in and shut the door quietly and carefully. It was obvious she was still hurting quite a bit. She looked at me, “Okay brother-mine, spill. What happened?” I smiled at her, “I missed you too Katarina. I’m not sure what you are referring to?” She glared at me, and I immediately threw my hands up in mock surrender. It was Whisper who spoke next.

“You’re wounded Mac. Who made you start to doubt everything?” She asked it in the same manner someone would ask you to pass the salt. I sighed and leaned back in the chair. “Well, this is the reason that I came here and since we’re all here I might as well.” I looked over at Kat, “This stays here, you understand?” I asked her. She nodded her head in understanding. “Amber and I had a huge fight. I know that couples do fight, especially when they are so similar in personalities. This was different though.” They all waited for me to continue. “The fight was because I called her out for lying to me on many occasions.” Kat, almost in tears, “Is this about the garage?”. I nodded to her, “In part, she thought she was protecting me by deceiving me and a number of other people.” I paused for a moment and then continued. “Long before she and I met…” I continued on with what she had told me about her relationship with the Del Gado family when she was much younger.

“I think the worst part is two-fold here, I don’t know if I can ever trust her again, and she doesn’t know whether she even wants to come home. She tells me she loves me but I dunno…” Kat rested her hand on my shoulder, with tears running down her face. “I had no idea, Mac.” I patted her leg gently, “That’s because she and I have done our best to keep it off of social media and out of the news. It’s more about protecting our privacy and buffering any negative thing from Sin City or Hell’s Gate.” I shake my head in disgust. Just by talking about it, I could feel my fury combined with a righteous anger building. Whisper continued to watch as I sat there stewing in my own anger.

“Enough Mac..” Whisper’s tone of voice left no room for discussion. “Internal raging will lead to loss of focus and you can not afford that if you want to keep that title around your waist.” I was unsure of how she did that shit, but I looked up at her with clear eyes and the anger dissipated like it was never there. “Welcome back.” She smirked and her dark eyes glittered in amusement she never did tell anyone how she does that. “Mind clear and focused at the problem at hand now?”I sat there in almost stunned disbelief, I started to hang my head in shame but instead I looked her in the eyes, “Yes ma’am,” I said with a sheepish grin. “You are both in the same match and as much as Kat wants to advance in the tournament she does not want you to lose the title this way. She does not handle it well as she is afraid of losing you in the process.” Kat was a huddled up little ball on the chair next to me. I smiled, “I know but the rules of this tournament are clear and maybe she missed the fine print. If she should cover Mikah, my title goes nowhere. Mark would have to cover me for that to happen. That shit is not gonna happen.”
Kat looked at me with her big dark eyes. “So it is me vs Mikah and you vs Mark.. I am not going to talk shit about you. I refuse to.” I looked at her, “Don’t you dare ease up just because it’s me, that’s not fair to you or to your partner. I really don’t like him but he deserves you at your best.” Kat nods at me with a determined look in her eyes as well. “Well the best I can be by then. Sorta a mess right now.” Whisper nodded pleased with herself. “Mac I think you are missing something”   

I looked back to Whisper, “What’s that?” Whisper smiled and handed over a file folder with a single sheet of paper in it. On it was a sketch hand drawn by Maria. “Your wings''Without hesitation or thought, I smiled at her as I studied the sketch. “Now that is epic art. I’m honored that you think I deserve this, I will definitely wear this with pride. I’m proud to represent you and this family.'' Whisper smiled and made her way around her desk and towards me she held my face in her hands gently before leaning down and pressing her forehead to mine and in my head I heard her loud and clear. “You were already part of the family and we are proud to have you amongst us.” I was a little surprised by the connection at first, testing the waters. I tried to respond to her in the same fashion, “Thank you Mother of Arch-Angels''. A soft smile came over her face, one that I had not seen that often before. “You are welcome, Macentyre.” she pressed a soft kiss on my forehead and stood up and smiled towards Kim and Kat which was a sign they were waiting for and Kat, recklessly forgetting about her injuries jumped on my lap and hugged me tight. I had not seen Kim leave the room but she did and returned moments later with Maria by her side. I smiled more than I had in weeks, surrounded by people that I know would have my back no matter what was important. I really wish Ken was there at that moment. Maybe I could bring him, Kyra and Adina here one day soon.

The ladies escorted me to the area where the tattoo work would be done. Rene showed up at that moment as well, “Welcome Brother,” he said as he gave me a huge hug and pat on the back. Whisper motioned for me to lay down on the massage table. As I did Maria came up to me. “Wings for our warrior. Been waiting for you” I winked at her, “Thank you for your patience.” Maria chuckles “Thank me when I am done if you do not hate me by then. This will take a while. Your sisters will be right here with you.” I nodded, “I’m no stranger to the pain, and if I think back about it, they always seemed to be there.” Kim spoke up for the first time looking right at me. “And we always will be.” “And I for all of you.”, I said quietly but without hesitation or reservation. Kim’s geek side showed for a moment “This is the way” she winked at me with a smirk on her face. I shot a wink back at her, “This is the way.” Whisper placed her hand on my shoulder as Kim and Kat made their way to the headrest and sat down with me each taking one hand in their own. “Focus on their voices and let Maria handle the rest.. I have spoken.” Whisper winked towards me with that reference and did as she asked and focused on the voices of my sisters. As they sang, Maria began her work on my back. I could feel the warmth that they sang with and I never felt very much from the needlework that Maria was doing. When Maria was done she put some healing cream on the needlework she had put on my back and the voices of my sisters faded as Whisper approached me and placed her hand on my shoulder. “It is done” I looked up and smiled. “Thank you, Maria, you have a gentle touch.” I then hugged each of my sisters in turn, planting a kiss on their foreheads as a way of thanking them.

I could feel a difference in my body and my mind. I felt better physically and emotionally. It was like I could feel my psyche being healed. In his mind, the words came loud and clear. “Focus and remain calm, you are never alone.” The smile returned to my face, “I know mother, and thank you.” Whisper smiled and nodded before turning away and helping Maria pack it up and bring it back to the house. The elderly lady had done more than her duty.

Fade

{Oblivion Garage - Las Vegas NV - “Cleaning Up”}

The cleanup of what was left of the garage was just about done. I came here often when I was in town. I think it reminded me of our marriage, gone up in smoke. I honestly didn’t know what to expect from Amber. I wasn’t sure if she would ever come back. This place though, it provided me with a little solace. The paperwork was done for the insurance. Now it was just the waiting game. Waiting for the paperwork to be processed and the funding to be in place. Then they could begin rebuilding. If there was a “they” at the end of this. If not, I’d still rebuild it then probably sell it. Maybe I’d reopen the garage but it wouldn’t be the same without her here. I looked around the garage one last time. I heard the crunch of a shoe on gravel and my Smith and Wesson was out and pointed in that direction.

“Easy Senor Bane,” the smooth cadence of Dominic’s father, “You and I should talk before things get out of hand.” He paused for only a moment. “I am not armed Senor, please lower your weapon.” I snapped my head around and glared at the older gentleman. “You’ve taken your life in your own hands today, Francisco,” I almost growled it. He put his hands up in mock surrender and I holster my weapon. “If you have men with you, have them come out in the open where they can be seen.” I could tell he was considering something, it was something that was going to get someone killed. He saw the look on my face and my hand still lingering by the holster. “Fair enough senor, “ Like out of b move he clapped his hands twice and then there were five of them including him. “You watch way too many movies Del Gado, that was lame as hell.” His eyebrows furrowed, “never mind, I should have known you wouldn’t get it.”

“What exactly was your plan here, senor?” I asked in a straightforward manner as possible. “Did you think you and your men could just jump me here and kill me off, and poof problem solved?” He shook his head indicating that was not the plan. “No Bane, that was not my plan, they are simply here to ensure I come away from this unharmed. I only wanted to ask you if you knew the whereabouts of my wife.” I shrugged, “I didn’t even know you were married,” I said in my own smooth way that just didn’t sound as cool as he did. “What’s her name? More importantly, why do you think I know where she is?”

“She was in Texas recently,” he began but his phone chose that moment to ring. “Stupid boy,” he swore at the display. “My son, pardon me please.” He turned to leave me and his men to stare at one another. It didn’t last long though as he came back and stared at me. “That was my son, Dominic, he told me what he did here.” I nodded, “Gutless”. “Si,” was his response. “He asked me if I would apologize for him for the pain he has caused you and your wife.” I gave the old fella a smile, “Tell him that I’ll consider it if he comes here and does it himself.” Senor Del Gado smiled and nodded. “Consider it done, Senor Bane.”

Fade.

{Somewhere in Texas - Karma”}

Recently I had been able to find my center again, my anger was less prevalent since my trip to Colorado. The one thing that remained was my intensity, I was extremely proud of that. I was even more proud of the fact that I had successfully defended my title. The failure the first time around still haunted me a bit but I knew the more I defended it the more that my confidence would grow. I stood there looking at the countryside. A wistful expression on my face, my black skullcap ripples a little at the wind. I pull the collar up on my duster to ward off the wind. I get ready to speak but pause as the thunder chases the wind across the sky. Once it quietens down, then I begin to speak my mind. I smile at the lightning as it flashes to the northeast. Looking down at my old black boots.

Mikah and I have been working very hard for this match. She’s a phenomenal partner and does things the right way. I know she doesn’t want anyone but Kris to like her and that’s not only understandable but admirable. I like her work ethic and her willingness to do whatever it takes to win. I like her as a tag team partner, so far she’s been super reliable and a great teammate.

Still looking down…

I mention her first, because I know she realizes what is at stake.

Now I look back up, the intensity etched in my face. My determination is as bright as neon.

Kat, I know this is all new to you, being your first time in this tournament. I know you will bring everything to this match that you have. You’ve always been dedicated to your craft and your family. For you and I this is what it is baby sister. I hope what I told you eased your mind a bit. You are not facing me at all in this match as we discussed the other day. Mikah is your challenge in this event. Whatever people have said about my partner is probably true. She’s that good and then some. You are as well, you’ve always shone brightly. I expect you to come hard at this match and do what we’ve always done, leave it all in the ring, the violence is always unapologetic.

The smile is now gone as I begin to address Mark Cross. The smile has transformed into something more predatory.

Well, lookie there, a tournament was announced and wild slapnuts appeared.

The American Dragon Mark Cross.

This dance is not new to you and I. We’ve fought before. Last year in the tournament was an epic battle. I know that you are proud of that win and the ones that followed. Rightly so I might add. You were on a hell of a run. A run that didn’t end until we fought again. My internet title versus the world title.

I flip the folds of my jacket back revealing the Sin City Title, done with a flare that you might have seen in an old western.

Sin City has a very different landscape now. A lot has changed in a year, Mark. I’ll talk first about the things that haven’t.

You.

You seem to be continuing your track record of being a part time wrestler. I guess the grind of a real job is a bit much for a former player in the National Football League. You’ve always been great in tournaments, but that’s about where it ends. You’re great at beating people you’ve never faced before. Kudos to you bud, but the problem is, I’m familiar with you. I know your tendencies and your lazy habits in the ring.

I spit on the ground following that statement as if it were a taste I couldn’t get rid of. Just talking about this guy always made me feel unclean and as if I had something nasty in my mouth.

You see, this might be on the line…

I rest both hands on the title belt, hooking my thumbs behind the primary plate, feeling the leather strap beneath it.

You’ll never get your hands on it, little man. You won’t be covering me in this match. You’d have to kill me to get that cover.

My facial features harden as I continue to talk about him.

Even if you were to get it again, to what end? You lost your passion for the business when you held it before. You walked around here talking about being a such a great champion. A reluctant one as I recall. Being the good man that I am, I relieved you of that responsibility. As far as the things that have changed? It looks like you’ve got someone special in your life, so that’s cool. It won’t help you win a match but still…good for you. At least I think you do, haven’t seen much of you on social media lately with you professing your love to her.

I shoot the camera a wink and a smile.

Other things that have changed.

Me.

You won’t be facing the same Mac Bane you faced last year. I’ve changed a lot and grown a lot in the last year. I’ve embraced my evolution as a man and a fighter. While you’ve been….doing whatever it is that a part time athlete does. I’m sure you’ll have a lot to say about what I’ve been up to since the last time we spoke.

I laugh a bit at first then stop laughing.

People like to talk about my group of associates who I am running with now. Thing is, they didn’t help me win this title. They never interfered in the matches I was in, nor would I allow it. So, feel free to talk about that until you’re blue in the face. The last time we faced each other, I called myself your mountain to climb. You failed. You fell to your professional death that night. This time in this moment, I’m your karma. You couldn’t beat me that night and you won’t beat me with this title being on the line.

I pause as another round of thunder and lightning crashes against the Texas sky. That always seems to ease my soul and lessen my burdens.

I do love a good storm, don’t you?

I smile at the skyline as more and more hits.

It’s never a good idea to stand around when a storm is brewing unless…unless you are the one that created that storm. The one I’ve created in Sin City…

I point out at the sky as a tornado tries to form some 5 or 6 miles away.

Makes this look like light rain on a sunny day. The things I’ve put in motion…well they are not for the weak of heart. Sin City is not ready for what’s coming. After you lose and get bounced out of here, that’s what you’ll do, bounce. You don’t want to stick around for what’s to come anyway. You don’t have the spine for this kid, better for you to just go back to Florida. It’s much safer and less competitive there.

Fade

“I'll do what I can to promote the greater good. If you can harm one person to save 1,000, I'm gonna do it every f**king time.” -- Sean Patrick Flanery

{The Enemy Part 1 - Unnamed Location}

The white walls gleamed in stark contrast to the black clothing I wear, the lighting of the room had the desired effect. Black slacks, black and silver button down shirt, aviator style sunglasses, and black shoes were the polar opposite, the opposing force if you will to the brilliant, almost blinding white light in the room.

“Enter the bad guy, the villain, the reason that Sin City Wrestling has so much exposure. All eyes in this industry are focused on what we are doing and how we are doing it. There’s been some criticism lately by some former talents about how unoriginal the attacks are. These are the same people who require the attention of others in order to feel relevant, even though they haven’t stepped between the ropes for a while. Everything we do has purpose, I’d suggest you stay home and finish raising your children before that’s not an option. Now then back to more important matters. The real question is the why of it, even though I have been saying it for weeks. The answer is almost as simple as your current world champion.”

I smile at the camera, amused at myself and my statement.

“I know, that seems hard to believe. It’s even more difficult to grasp how he was able to beat me not once but twice. Maybe I underestimated him, maybe I was like Mark and just didn’t care enough about what I was doing. As far as why we are doing what we are doing. Sin City was mediocre at best before I started this war on the roster. There were even rumors of a shut down. If I didn’t love this company and what we do, why would I bother?”

The smile disappears as I take the sunglasses off and stick them in the breast pocket of the shirt I wear. I move my hands behind my back and clasp them together.

“I wouldn’t. I would have simply asked for my release from a sinking ship and went on about my business.”

I smirk at the camera, followed by a wink.

“So, I did the unthinkable. I raised a call to arms to men and women who are respected by me or are considered family. Kat, Ken, Dominick, Supreme Machine and others who haven’t appeared yet. You see, the one way to shake up and wake up a roster is to make them think that the company is in peril. That there is this force that is trying to commit a hostile takeover.”

A wolfish grin plays across my face as I continue.

“It not only woke up the roster, but look at the attention it garnered from outside the company. The roster has blown up and the company is doing better financially. Some would say it has nothing to do with what we’ve done.”

I shrug

“We tend to let people think what they want, we can lead them to the truth but can’t make them think. We can only inspire others to do better with our actions in and out of the ring. Take Matthew Knox for example. Why is he here? That’s more simple than you can possibly imagine. So imagine this, wanting something so much that you would risk eternal damnation. To covet another man’s wife, that’s the reason he’s here. It literally has nothing to do with myself, Ken, Dom or Suma. I’m going to send you to Hell personally Matthew, regardless of your intentions. First though, the boys will have fun playing with a broken toy. You see, he’s here to try and save my wife from the influence of others. He actually thought that Suma was responsible for the current happenings here. At least that’s what he tells himself when he looks in the mirror to justify his actions. The real reason he’s here is because he was manipulated from the start.”

I shrug again.

“It was easy, and that may be the most satisfying thing about all of this to be honest. I mean, persuading someone to do something you want them to do is fun. Convincing them that it’s the wrong thing to do,even though that’s what you want is even more so. It’s like the exit only sign at a store, you just have to go in that way, don’t you Matt? I’ve always known about your obsession with my wife, Matt. The other thing I’ve always known is that she would never betray me.”

I laugh at the simplicity of the plan I put in motion to get him to come here.

“So, why would I do that? Why would I do all of this? Ah, that’s my little secret that will unfold slowly as we move forward. I can’t reveal all my trade secrets so early in the game, now can I?”

My smile remains as I continue.

“Now, what is next for The Sin City Saviors?”

That knowing smirk returns.

“All in good time, but the plan has already begun to bear fruit. Even though, sad to say that Dom will be on the shelf for a bit after he was attacked by Alexander Raven. That receipt will not go unpaid, I can assure you of that. I could tell you where and how and you’d still never see it coming. That’s simply the way we operate.”

My smirk is gone, replaced by a hardened gaze as I address the fans.

“What happened to Fenris and Aaron was unfortunate. What happened to Miles was expected, not to injure him but to send a message to all of The Wolf’s Lair. I know it’s not in your nature K, but all you had to do was stay out of our business. I’ve no beef with you or your brother, you know that. We’ve talked openly and often about the respect between us. I know you love this company as much as I do, why not join us?”

I shake my head, knowing what the answer will be to that question. Too much had happened between Suma and Fenris, they were on a collision course. There was nothing I could do about that but hope that K would see the reasoning for what we are doing.

“That leads us back to the reason that I am here talking to you today. The Wolf’s Lair in general but Alex Jones more specifically.”

The loathing and hatred for them as a group had been festering in my heart for a while. Their destruction is what I wanted although it had never been said out loud.

“All the fans and the roster get to hear about is how much the Wolf’s Lair has done for Sin City Wrestling. Is that a fact? Really? Because of the titles you’ve held? So fucking what. There is so much more to this business than that. Not that the shallow and narrow minded fools would even admit to that. Especially not their leader.”

I feel my heart hardening even more, there was a special place in hell for people like Alex Jones.

“Another glaring difference, Alex. You see I’m not the leader of The Saviors, we don’t have one. What we do have is a purpose, unlike you and yours. You talk about unity, like you even know what that word means. You’ve had countless opportunities to show it but you always make it about you, Alex.”

I shake my head in disgust and sigh heavily.

“It wasn’t Alex Jones that went out first to help Miles, nor was Austin James Mercer. It was Fenris and Aaron. At some point people like Miles will get tired of being a doormat for you. People like Austin will get tired of playing second fiddle to “The Black Dragon”. They’ll stand on their own eventually if for no other reason than to spite you. I’m looking forward to seeing that day. It’s not just about the way you represent the company. You give  people back handed compliments and call that respect. When I’m done destroying you, you’ll receive no such platitudes from me. I'll simply move on to the next challenger. It will be like your reign as champion never happened. Not because of respect but that is my reality Alex, your reign should never have happened.”

Fade

{The Bane Home - Las Vegas, NV - “The Problem”}

~2 weeks ago

It had been a good morning, the automated timer for the coffee pot worked perfectly so when we crawled out of the bed it was waiting on us. Waking up next to this spicey, sexy woman is one of the best parts of my day every day. We sit at the kitchen table, idle chit chat, nothing too heavy, each of us walking on eggshells for the other. I look at the audience…

Aside:
“The problem is not the problem, the problem is your attitude about the problem” or something like that said by one, Johnny Depp, many years ago.

That was exactly the case in point for me today, as I stared at my lovely wife over a fresh cup of coffee. In spite of the coconut creamer I had in mine, I could always get a whiff of cinnamon when she was around me. Her tousled mane of red hair, bed head if you will, always looked perfect to me. We hadn’t really had a chance to talk about the incident in Atlantic City, she had kept insisting that it was nothing and that the panicked phone call I had gotten from the PR assistant was just an overreaction to her falling because she was drunk. So we were grid locked on the topic, with each side not budging on their insistence.

“Getting you to admit to anything is damn near impossible” I said to her in an amused tone, so as not to put her on the defensive. “And getting you to give up on a lost cause is just as infuriating,” she retorted with amusement laced sarcasm. “Touche my love”, I remarked flippantly as she smiled that fake smile over the rim of her cup of black coffee. We both knew it was fake and sometimes she just did it to annoy me, which I also found amusing and at times infuriating. Looking at the camera again.

Aside:
What Amber doesn’t realize is that she’s not fooling me in the least, I know she’s created a mess. As always, I’ll let her make the mess and then be there at the end in order to help her clean it up. I’ve always been rather good at picking up the pieces of broken things and putting them back together. That will have to wait, I have a mess of my own to clean up to be honest.


So, yes we had reached a stalemate for now. There always seemed to be something trying to get in the way of our happiness, it almost felt like the universe was out to get us. It was still “us” though as it had been from the beginning. The Bane’s versus the world. The world knew that I would set it on fire just so she and I could watch it burn together. We had been married since April, but it seemed like we had always been together. She got me in ways no one could, even my deceased wife never had that level of understanding when it came to me.  Amber knew what made me tick, just as she knew the things that would trigger my anger. There were times that I think it was turn on for her to push my buttons, although she assured me that was not the case.

“Going to Colorado?” she asked me, trying to change the subject. Discretion being the better part of valor, I went along with it. “Yeah, I think it’s time I visited “Hell’s Gate”. Something I’ve been thinking about for a couple of years now.” She arched an eyebrow, “I didn’t know you even knew about that place.” I nodded, “Well, it’s not exactly a secret in the industry. People go there for a variety of reasons.” She nodded, she knew about the training center of course. She was concerned and it was obvious, “Why are you going there is what I’m concerned about.” I nodded, I knew this was coming and there was no sense in trying to avoid the conversation or lie about it. “Do you remember when we met for the very first time? How aggressive I was then?” She seemed to think about that for a moment and then nodded in agreement. “Aggressive isn’t the word I would have chosen, but you were a beast back then.” Now it was my turn to nod my head in agreement. “What if I told you that pales in comparison to who I used to be when I was in my early thirties?”

Aside:
Video doesn’t really tell you the whole story about how I started and the things I did to my enemies. I used to throw people off the top of cages through tables that had been set on fire for fun. I’ve often wondered, where did that guy go? I was going to bring him back, the funny part was that no one was the wiser. Provided the plan worked, but it had to, my future in this sport depended on that.

That got the reaction I was hoping it would. With her jaw hanging down, in shock I would assume. I reached across the table and raised her jaw back up. She clamped her teeth together and glared at me, then that feral smile swept across her face. That look always made my heart smile, the grin of a predator who just had a wicked thought about the subject they were discussing. “I would call bull shit, but I know it’s not. I had heard rumors and actually watched a few of your matches from that time. So, I know you’re not lying.” I studied her for a moment and then finally I said, “I lost that piece of me, somewhere along the way. I’m hoping that the physical therapy with Whisper and the training with Renegade will help me bring that side of me back.” As I finished the sentence, she reached across the table and grabbed my hand. It was something that I usually did to her. “Darl, you know I’ll support you in whatever decision you make. Do what you need to in order to bring that world title back to the fold.” There it was, my wife’s full endorsement of my plan, even though I don’t think she knew exactly what that might entail. What I was about to do, may very well end some friendships within Sin City but something had to be done. Not only for the company but for myself. That was what “by any means necessary” really meant. “I’ll fly up in a couple of days, Kat already warned me that I was a dead man if I didn’t come stay with her and Chris.”

She chuckled a bit, “I’d support that, who knows, maybe you’ll catch Jason while he’s there.” I smiled, “I guess that depends on if his trip to Egypt gets canceled or not.” I looked at the bottom of an empty coffee cup and frowned, “hate it when that happens. Need yours topped off?” She waved me off and I walked to the kitchen, likely to her relief. It wasn’t like her to avoid eye contact but considering the subject of our conversation that might have a bit to do with that. I had put some feelers out to see if I could get the straight answer on what happened in Atlantic City. I had Amber’s story, which I didn’t believe a word of. The relief of both Amber and her drinking companion when I arrived was all I needed to know. Something had gone down, something violent. Someone had been trying to kill them both and I wanted to know who. There was still the Del Gado thing to deal with as well. How do I keep getting myself into these situations? I thought to myself. I finished pouring my coffee and grabbed my pack of cigarettes to go to the back porch. My cell phone chimed just then.

When I checked the message it was from my old friend Jeff.

Mac, I can’t use my resources for this but I still have people in Jersey. I have the information for you in the file attached to this message. Too bad they’re all deceased, I know you would have liked to have taken care of that yourself.

“Well, I guess that settles that. This book is not closed though, only that chapter, there’s something that doesn’t feel quite right…”

There was something heavy headed our way, I could feel it in my soul. Maybe I was being paranoid or maybe not. There are a lot of strange vehicles on our street lately. Darked out windows, low profile sedans parked across from the garage. The occasional biker riding by the garage, wearing colors that had no business being in Nevada, let alone in Las Vegas. As the old saying went, something is rotten in Denmark. I had to head on over to Colorado soon, I had to get my mind and my body right for this fight with Jones. I knew that Whisper could help me, and that brute Renegade would test every ounce of who I am as a fighter. They were both legit badasses in their own right.

Fade.

{Hell’s Gate - Denver, Colorado - “Awakening”}

~ three weeks ago

The drive from Kat and Chris’ place to the dojo wasn’t a long one but it was breathtaking. Snow Capped mountains and recently cleared roads. I could hear the slush echo off of the undercarriage of the rental I had gotten. The roads would likely be a little slick on the way back later today. Whisper and Renegade were expecting me, they had known well in advance that I was coming. I pulled into the lot a full hour ahead of time. I did this based on Kat’s advice about Whisper’s hatred for people and things in general that didn’t show up on time. I of course understood this, it was one of the things that annoyed me about my own kids. I still had a full cup of Kat’s coffee and a fresh pack of cigarettes so I took advantage of one of the few breaks I would have today.

Aside:
You see kids, if you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.

The snick of the zippo and the immediate aroma of lighter fluid filled my senses. I took a long drag off my smoke and savored it, exhaling slowly through my nose. I thought about the reasons for my being here. To awaken something that I thought was long dead or maybe just maybe create something new that hadn’t been seen before from me. It’s one thing to be a beast in the ring, it’s quite another to have beaten your opponent before they ever set foot in the ring. To live in someone’s head rent free was something I knew how to do. It was far more important for them to believe that they had won. Whether on twitter or direct interactions. These were the kind of flavorful things that I enjoyed most. Another sip of coffee. “My God woman, you make the best cup of coffee, I swear.” The coffee hit my soul and brought not only warmth but energy. It only took a few moments more for me to finish both my coffee and my cigarette. I saw the front door light come on and a smiling Whisper unlocked it to allow the day's visitors to come in. So, having finished both coffee and nicotine it was time to head in and get my mind right.

I entered the wrestling school through the door just opened by Whisper, I hadn’t gone very far before she approached me. “Get in your gear and meet me in my office.” I nodded, “Yes ma’am.” I heard as I was walking away, “Ma’am?” I looked over my shoulder, “Yes ma’am, it’s called respect.” I shot her a wink as I continued towards the locker room area. I quickly changed and came to her office as requested. She didn’t appear to be fuming over the “ma’am” thing so I hoped I was still in her good graces. Whisper was known to be a hard woman, demanding but always fair in her assessments. “Most of the time”, she began, “People come to me who are broken in one way or another. Lacking confidence, or needing to get their edge back. You do not seem to have lost confidence, so the edge it is.” Whisper smirked and her devilish nature showed. “I can help with that. First though. How much of an edge did you want to regain. I have seen your work from the start. Which Mac Bane are you going for?” I thought for a moment, a legitimate question to say the least. “Then you remember who I was and how I fought when I was younger. I want it all back, Whisper, every ounce of that vile bastard that I was.”The smirk on her face was telling enough. “It is a process, it won’t happen overnight. But I will introduce you to the group of extraordinary wrestlers that will guide you back to our brand of vicious unapologetic violence. You know about Renegade.. He will work with you on the striking and will take you to your limits and beyond. Kim.. She will torment you until you rage.. And when you do make sure to not hold back for she will take you out if you do. In HellsGates we never hold back. For you need to know what level of rage you need to destroy your opponents.” I allow a predatory smile to form, tugging at the corners of my mouth. “That was exactly the reason I came to you. I knew that this is the place where there will be no shortcuts, no excuses, just a lot of hard work.”

Aside:
And so began the journey with Whisper and her team, the days were long and grueling but worth every minute of blood, sweat and tears. This is what it looks like when you talk about by any  means necessary. To reclaim something I never should have lost. That was the key, and this could be the tipping point in my career. At the end of the day, the things that mattered most to me were, family, my world title, and unapologetic violence. I was going to recapture every ounce of that or die trying.

Fade.

{The Enemy Part 2 - Unnamed location]

From the same location as before, I stand there patiently, and continue.

“So, for the last three and a half weeks or so, do you know what I’ve been doing, Alex?”

The predatory smile blooms on my face, no hesitation, only malevolence and intensity.

“Well, I’m glad you asked. I’ve been planning your demise, Champ. I find it funny that I could get to you so easily. In typical Alex Jones fashion, you get on twitter trying to be a prick to me. You go on a fishing expedition trying to elicit an emotional response from me. When that didn’t work you attacked Mark Cross to vent your frustration.”

I spread my arms wide and then allow them to come back to my sides. My expression never changes.

“Someone like you has to feed off the emotions of others in order to get ready to fight. You need that extra motivation because of your insecurities. I require none of those things to get ready to beat you to a pulp. The more important part to me though, I’m in your head already and we are still days away from our match. I know there will be many other attempts by you prior to our match.”

I bring my hands in front of me and clasp them together.

“I look forward to it. You’ve already tried the tired old, “I beat you twice”, that really didn’t work out for you though did it? No, because as I said, Mark thought the same thing as you. He thought having two pinfall victories over me would actually mean something. He thought it would derail me. Just as I’m sure he thought my losing to Jack would derail me. Guess what? I’m back, bitch!”

Barely contained amusement floods my facial features.

“So, you go ahead and sit on the throne of lies you’ve been telling yourself. The clock is very quickly reaching zero, your time as a champion is drawing to a close. I WILL restore prestige and honor to that title. I WILL begin eliminating your little den of puppies, one by one. I WILL NOT stop until I’ve gotten what I came here for.”

The intensity during that heated verbal barrage shows very plainly on my face. It’s only momentary though.

“What I won’t do is allow you or your cronies to stop my momentum. I won’t allow the likes of you, a rank amatuer,  to get under my skin.”

The heat and intensity that was so evident in my face is gone now, much like when you turn a switch off.

“I will offer no backhanded compliments in order to build you up as a proper champion and a man worthy of my time. When I think of everything you could have done to promote this company and draw not only fans in, but competitors from all across our sport. You didn’t do that though, you promote your brand. We are not the same. When I won that title, I offered up shots to anyone who wanted it. I could have gone from the bottom of the roster on up. I didn’t though, I started with you. I felt like you deserved a shot and you took advantage of it. I congratulated you then, the most sincere accolade I could give you at the time.”

Nodding mostly to myself, I’m digging the tempo of this promo.

“I did that without reservation. You claimed that you survived me twice. Then you go on social media and ask me if I thought the third time's a charm? You should be asking yourself the same question. Can you survive me a third time?”

I shake my head and almost begin laughing.

“You really are a special kind of stupid.”

Fade.

{Hell’s Gate - Denver Colorado - “Back to Hell”}

I’d only left for short periods of time, working with Whisper on my mind set. That had been my focus, along with the striking and all the other training we had been doing. The ability to achieve that unapologetic violence that she spoke so fondly of was my goal. Everything that I learned from Whisper, Renegade, Kim, Kat and Cyrus along the way all had value. My body and mind were hardening over time. The exchange between myself and Alex Jones this morning was evidence of that. He had tried to bait me into an emotional response but he found out the hard way that’s easier said than done. Today was my last session with Hell’s Gate before I needed to head back to Vegas. I currently sat in Whisper’s living room. She had invited me to stay with her, since Kat and Chris were out of town. I will be the first to admit that I was skeptical about coming here in the beginning. I didn’t know if she or any of the team could bring something out of me that I had intentionally buried years ago. Once I realized that it was me that had buried it to begin with, the sessions with the team became easier. Not easy mind you, easier to grasp what they were trying to teach me. I heard the swishing of the pajama pants that Whisper wore as she entered the room.

“Coffee is already made? Bless you.” she said in passing, making a b-line for the coffee pot. “Of course,” I responded with a smile, “I wouldn’t be a proper guest if I didn’t do that.” I could hear the sound of liquid filling her mug and she made her way into the living area. She sat down Indian style on the couch. “How do you feel?” She asked me with no hint of sarcasm or levity. I looked at her and smiled, “Honestly? I feel unfucking stoppable right now.” The smile she gave from the answer lit up the whole room. She was pleased, not only with my progress but what the team had been able to accomplish with me. “Good” was her only response as she sipped her coffee. Kat had hinted that they may want me to join their team but it hadn’t been brought up to me at this point. It seemed rude to even consider broaching the subject with her right now. My focus was elsewhere at the moment anyway. The match was my focus. Dethroning Alex Jones is what mattered to me. “Whisper, do you believe that the brain can react in a way that is similar to muscle memory?” The question had been on my mind for several days. There was that smile again and her eyes lit up at the mention of it. “Indeed I do. Is that what Kim and I were able to bring back for you?” Now it was my turn to smile, “yes ma’am, that’s exactly what I feel.” She set her coffee cup down and leaned forward. “Then my dear, that being said, I think Alex is in for the shock of a lifetime.”

“Shock isn’t what I want, I want his blood, Whisper. His blood and my title are the only things that matter right now.” She looked at me only briefly before returning to her coffee, after a short silence, “You’re ready Mac, but you already know that. You’ve shown it in the sessions. You’ve shown no restraint, no hesitation, only commitment to what you are trying to accomplish.” I nodded along and she finished by saying, “You did everything I asked and I couldn’t possibly ask for anything more from any student.” I smiled, thankful for the praise but sensing there was more that she hadn’t said, so I remained silent out of respect. “The way you and Renegade went back and forth during sparring and striking sessions was quite frankly insane. You even managed to shock Kim, that’s far more difficult than you can imagine.” I smiled remembering that session. Kim Pain is one badass woman, no matter how you measure that. “I like to think, in each one of these sessions we get the chance to learn something from each other.” I said finally. “What will you teach Alex Jones then?” I smiled, “I will teach him what unapologetic violence is really about, so he has first hand knowledge.”

Fade.

{The Enemy Part 3(final) - Unnamed location}

Still standing in front of the camera to finalize what I have to say ahead of this all important match. A match that in my mind says will determine the path of the company in the next year. I think to myself - will it be the same old, same old with the Wolf’s Lair trying to run the show or will it be a new era with fresh blood dominating the scene? I know I need to address that at some point.


“Jones, your failure to grasp the most simple of concepts, it really must be quite maddening inside your own skull. You know who I’ve been working with for the last month and yet you still think you’re getting the same person you faced in September? I see you Alex, I see you for what you really are. What you are is scared. Your funny little gif’s on social media trying to convince the world and yourself that you are confident. I guess it’s only obvious to me that you are anything but confident. You are a man who knows his time as champion is coming to a close.

I look at my hands, the blood still soaking through the bandages. The marks left behind from sparring with Rene at Hell’s Gate.

”Blood on my hands, not the first time and certainly won’t be the last. This time, it was for a damn good reason. Training. I’ve always been a solid striker but now…well, you’ll get to see soon enough. The last few weeks, they’ve been grueling, challenging me physically and mentally. I’ve questioned my own philosophy when it comes to how I approach a match. With the help of Whisper and Kim Pain I’ve managed to break those chains. Shatter that concept of why I do things the way I do them. You see, Alex, with those restraints gone. The things that kept me in check, and prevented me from completely destroying someone in the ring. With those things gone….

The predatory smile returns as I continue to rub my fists.

”No hesitation, reservation or remorse, Alex. That only leaves the execution of my plan and my enemy. I’m going to show you and the world what Unapologetic Violence is and how little I care about your personal well being. The things I care about have changed ever so slightly. My family is my number one priority, it always has been and always will be. Followed closely by the belt that you currently hold. That’s it. When I destroy you and I will destroy you Alex. It won’t be because anyone interfered in our match, the boys know not to come to the ring. When the bell rings, I will feel nothing. Nothing but the exhilaration of a mission accomplished and knowing that I will be the man that rings in the new year with the world title around my waist.”

The blood now runs from my knuckles again, having soaked through the bandages, my focus is unrelenting and I allow it to continue. I smell the iron, it fills my senses, I raise my hands so they are as visible to the camera as they are to myself.

”The loss of blood is not nearly as devastating as the loss of self. For the past decade, I’ve been going through the motions of life and wrestling. Never really fully engaged, never really fulfilling my potential or my purpose in this sport. My purpose is easy to define. The only thing that ever mattered to me was being the very best that this business has. That got lost along the way, I was out there trying to help others achieve greatness instead of focusing on my own growth. Instead of focusing on what I needed I chose to help others. I’m still helping others, I will never abandon the people that rely on me.”

I look at my hands and watch as the blood runs down, it coats the watch I’m wearing and threatens the cuff links of my suit jacket. I lower them back by my side.

”Can you say the same, Alex? Can you claim to be wholly committed to something other than yourself? When you kicked Milo out of the gym. It was said that you did that for his own good, because he was pushing himself too hard. That in itself was a selfish act, because you didn’t want to deal with him and his obsession. He had every right to be obsessive about his success. So you chose to help him by booting him out of the place he calls home. It would appear your leadership skills are lacking Jonesie. If we look at your social media presence, it appears that you are spending a lot of time posting….well, you…your mug with a smug look. I’m sure you think that’s cute and all but what does it do for Sin City? How does this promote our match?”

I shrug it off.

”In short, it doesn't. So I guess all of what you and your team has been saying is not actually true. That you’ve all done so much for Sin City but cannot be bothered to promote your matches. It’s your house though, so who am I to judge. Think about houses…some people think that it’s the foundation that makes them strong or weak. What if I told you it’s the people that live in that house that determine its strength. The house or the team is only as strong as its weakest link. The people are the foundation, the brick and mortar. They matter as a whole, not individually.”

I stare down at the floor as I get ready to wrap this up.

”Have you ever heard the myth of the Black Razor? The Black Razor is a sword of legend. Like the sword of damocles but worse. The Black Razor was forged in the fires of Hell, taking the feathers from the wings of angels. The angels that were killed or corrupted and fell in the war between heaven and hell. Of course that’s just myth and legend right? Maybe, what if I told you that is exactly what has been created by Whisper, Kim Pain, and Rene. Still like your chances of surviving a third match with me?”

The lights start to dim and we fade to black….

Fade.