[Jake Sullivan]

 Sunday May 8th
Okayama, Japan
After Climax Control

You know what they say about first title defenses, right?  They’re the most important, because it supposedly shows what kind of champion you are.  The outcome of that first title defense will prove if you have what it takes to be a champion and deserve the belt you have in your possession, or if you’re what people like to call a “paper champion.”  Walking into Okayama tonight, Rage thought he’d have no problem tonight in his match against Dmitri.  It is no secret that Dmitri has been preoccupied and focused on his ongoing feud with Casey Williams, so Rage only assumed that would work to his advantage.

Well, Rage was wrong.  Very wrong.

He might have underestimated Dmitri, or he could have just been having a completely off night.  Regardless of the reason, Rage walked into Okayama as the Internet Champion, but Dmitri would be walking out as the new champion.  It was something Rage thought he’d be a little more angry about, but...he’s, not.

In fact, he has something else on his mind entirely and he’s storming down the hall on a mission with Kittie chasing after him.

Kittie: Dude, slow down!  I know you’re pissed about losing out there, but--

Rage: I’m not pissed.

His response was calm and to the point and Kittie stopped following him for a moment with a baffled look on her face.

Kittie: Wait...what?  You’re seriously not pissed?

Rage shakes his head as he continues walking down the hall, never once turning to glance back at Kittie.  Kittie finally manages to catch up with him and tries to keep up with him.

Rage: Nope.  I’m relieved, actually.  But you’re gonna piss me off if you keep following me.  Go find Synn and Despy.

Kittie: Yeah, I don’t think so.  I want to know what you’re up to!

Kittie is about to find out the answer, as they stop right in front of the door with a sign that says “Christian Underwood” on it.  Kittie stares at the sign for a moment before she slowly turns her head and her eyes meet Rage’s calm stare and she raises an eyebrow.

Kittie: Right.  If you’re not pissed off, why are you planning on talking to Christian Underwood?  Demanding your rematch so soon??

Rage folds his arms across his large chest and just shakes his head slowly, confusing Kittie even further.  When a little smirk appears on his face, Kittie’s jaw almost hits the floor.

Rage: I’ll fill you in later, alright?  Just, please...Go find Synn and Despy so I can talk to--

Kittie starts shaking her head and a shocked look washes over her face.

Kittie: Shit...You’re about to do what I think you are, aren’t you?!  You’re going to be a fucking coward and quit?!?!

Kittie starts pulling at her hair angrily, assuming Rage is about to quit just because he lost the Internet Championship.  As Kittie shakes her head furiously and rolls her eyes, Rage lets out a laugh and has to grab a hold of her shoulders to snap her out of it.  He shakes her a little bit, getting her attention back on him.

Rage: Would you relax, Kittie?!  I’m NOT quitting!  Not even close!

Kittie is about to continue her momentary tirade, but before she can get a word out in response, Christian’s door opens and the Co-Owner himself appears in front of them.

Christian: What on earth is going on out here?!  Would you two be so kind as to take your lover’s spat somewhere else?  I’m trying to finish up a few things here.

With his hands still on Kittie’s shoulders, Rage turns his attention to Christian Underwood.

Rage: It’s not a lover’s spat…

Christian: Oh, really?  So, is this your mating ritual then?  Whatever it is, take it somewhere else.

Kittie swats Rage’s hands away from her shoulders and takes a step back.  Rage just lets out an amused huff as he turns his full attention to Christian.

Rage: Look, I came here to talk to you about something.  Kittie’s just freaking out thinking it’s about something else when it isn’t.  She was just about to head off to find Synn and Despayre.  Right, Kittie?

Kittie frowns as Rage turns his attention to her, and Christian even glances in her direction.  She opens her mouth to shout something in protest, but she’s left speechless.  Eventually she rolls her eyes and waves off Rage as she turns to walk away.

Kittie: Whatever.  Do whatever the hell you want, Rage.  Not like you ever listen to me anyway.

Rage just lets out a chuckle as Kittie finally turns and walks away, mumbling under her breath.  When she finally turns around another corner, Rage is able to turn his full attention back to Christian, though the expression the bosses face is not a very happy one.

Christian: Make it quick, Rage.  I’ve got things to do before leaving the arena.  Though I suspect I know what all of this is about.

Rage: You might.  But you might not.  I have a feeling you are thinking what Kittie’s original thought was.

Christian: Whatever her first thought was, I’m assuming you’re here to demand your rematch.  It’s what usually--

Christian’s voice trails off as Rage slowly shakes his head.  Now intrigued, Christian crosses his arms and raises a curious eyebrow at the Sin of Wrath.

Christian: No?  Well, color me surprised.  If that’s not what this is about, then by all means, tell me what is.

Rage: I want what I’ve been busting my ass towards for the last few months, and you know what that is.

Christian shakes his head.

Christian: I’m afraid I don’t quite understand…

Rage: The World Heavyweight Championship!  I want a shot at J2H and the title, Christian!  I’ve had to sit back and watch guys who haven’t done shit to deserve it, get their shots and now I want mine.

Christian takes in a deep breath, but he lets out a long sigh.  He shakes his head slowly.

Christian: I’m afraid it’s not that simple, Rage.  You can’t just come here demanding shots and expect to be handed one.  Not to mention, you just lost the Internet Championship to Dmitri.  You really expect me to give you a World Heavyweight Championship match right off the bat?  It doesn’t work that way.

Rage rolls his eyes and lets out a frustrated growl.

Rage: Bullshit!  How many times has Casey Williams lost one title shot, only to be given a different one the next week?!  How many fucking times have we seen other guys lose one title and get a World Heavyweight title shot the next?!  Don’t feed me that bullshit!

Christian frowns as Rage continues to raise his voice.

Christian: I’m going to urge you to lower your voice, Rage.  Should you choose not to, I just might be tempted to book you in a thong mud pit match against Jamie Dean…

Just as Christian says this, Jamie Dean is walking past and he stops right in his tracks, and Rage goes stone cold silent.

Jamie: Oh, please do!

Jamie winks at Rage, but Rage just lets out a growl, trying to intimidate him and Jamie just shakes his head.

Jamie: One day, big boy...One day…

Jamie then heads off down the hall, returning to minding his own business.  Rage turns his attention back to Christian in the hopes of getting the title match he has been wanting.

Christian: Anyway...as I was saying.  The situation at the moment is different, Rage.  We’re just a few weeks away from Into The Void, and I’m sorry, but the match against Connor Murphy tonight was James’ final one before he faces Despayre at Into The Void.  Despayre is the next challenger for the title.  Not you.

Rage narrows his eyes angrily and Christian can see him ball his hands into fists at his side.

Rage: Look, I don’t have the Internet Championship anymore, and you know as well as I do that I deserve a shot at the damn title!  More so than Connor or TNA ever have!

Christian: I am not denying that you’ve been working hard to earn a shot, and trust me, you’ll get one eventually, but you’re just going to have to wait your turn, Rage.  Are you really going to stand here and continue trying to convince me that you deserve the next shot more than Despayre?

Rage stands there and lets out a frustrated huff, but he doesn’t respond.  At least not right away.  He tries to think of a response to Christian, but he can’t, and Christian just nods.

Christian: Exactly what I thought.  Besides, think of it this way, if I were to give you a title shot against James next week, and if you were to defeat him and become the new World Heavyweight Champion, you’d be moving on to defend that title against Despayre at Into The Void.  Is that something you’d really like to see happen?

Rage: Why does everyone have to use Despayre against me?!  I’m not going to just forget about the World title just because Despayre has a shot at it and very well could win it.

Christian: Well...then you’re just going to have to accept the fact that should Despayre defeat J2H at Into The Void, and we end up giving you your opportunity at the title, you may end up facing Despayre at some point.  That is...if you don’t have the Internet Championship at the time.

Rage raises a confused eyebrow as he stares at Christian and lets out a slight laugh.

Rage: Umm...Hello?  Weren’t we just talking earlier about how I lost to Dmitri tonight?  I don’t have the Internet Championship anymore and Casey Williams gets to gloat about his feud with Dmitri being for the title now…

Christian holds up a single finger and shakes his head, and this confuses Rage even more.

Christian: Not so fast, Rage.  You see, I happened to be watching your match tonight, and I saw when Casey Williams interfered.  Now, whether or not his interference actually caused you to lose is besides the point, but the fact still remains that he did interfere so he’s not going to get his way so easily.

Rage: That’s great and all, but...What does that have to do with me?

Christian: Oh come now, Rage.  I thought you smarter than that.  You have a rematch clause for the Internet title, and I’m going to give it to you.  In two weeks time in Osaka.  It’s the final Climax Control before Into The Void in Tokyo, so I find it the appropriate time.

Rage closes his eyes and holds up his hands, almost acting as if he doesn’t want his rematch.

Rage: Whoa, whoa, whoa...I didn’t ask for a rematch against Dmitri.  I wasn’t planning on asking for a rematch, either.

Christian: That would be a big mistake, Rage.  I understand your desire and determination to get a shot at the World title, but would you really deprive yourself of such an opportunity?  Think logically here.

Rage: Oh I am being logical, Christian.  I’d just like to know the real reason you people keep denying me the title shot that I been working towards and instead keep throwing the Internet Championship at me.  First you did it at Blaze of Glory when you out of the blue put me in the match to fill the vacant title when I had expressed my interested in the World title but just said that I didn’t want to go out there and be like every undeserving fucker and demand a shot.  I wanted to earn it, which is what I thought I was doing!

Christian: Yes, but--

Rage holds up a finger, cutting Christian off before he can finish that thought.

Rage: There’s no damn buts about it! I know Connor and TNA challenged J2H to the damn title, but you guys have done surprising shit before and you coulda done the same thing for Blaze of Glory, but you didn’t.  I’m getting screwed out of my chance, AGAIN, all for a title I never fucking asked for or showed interest in!

Christian: Look, Rage, the World Title situation is all tied up at the moment, and it has been for quite some time.  All we were doing when we booked you in that four way match at Blaze of Glory was giving you a title match we knew you deserved.  I doubt you would have rather been booked in what others may have considered a random match against someone else.

Rage: No, but Sam and I would have been in the finals for that damn Blast From The Past tournament match had Lucy Seraphina not did what she did!  It’s bullshit all around and you know it!  If I’m stuck with the damn Internet Championship, I won’t get my shot at the World Heavyweight title.  And that just really fucking pisses me off.

Christian closes his eyes and takes in a deep breath, clearly becoming frustrated with Rage.  He holds up his hands and finally re-opens his eyes.

Christian: You know, I really thought that once Despayre won the Blast From The Past tournament match and earned his shot at the title, you would have backed off a little bit.  I’m surprised you haven’t, because everyone, myself included, has been waiting for Despayre t get this chance, and actually accept it, for a very long time.  Seems to me you’re being a little bit selfish here.

Rage’s eyes widen in surprise and he’s left at a loss for words.

Christian: Whether you want your rematch in two weeks or not doesn’t matter, because that’s when you’re getting it.  If you want to hold yourself back while you wait for a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship, that is up to you.  But, fair warning, should you lose against Dmitri again, it may be quite a while before you see that title shot you’ve been working so hard towards.  You’ll have to earn it all over again.  Think about that.

Rage: This is--

Christian: Enough!  We’re through discussing it, Rage.  Perhaps you should do the right thing and try to be supportive of Despayre getting this shot at Into The Void.  That young man has been like family to you for a long time and, frankly, I think what you’re trying to get me to do is deplorable.

Rage tries to speak again, but Christian raises his hand and silences him before he can get another word out, and just when it looks like Christian is going to speak up again, he steps back into his office and closes the door right in Rage’s face!  Rage stands there, shocked for a few moments, before he runs his hand over his head, narrows his eyes and lets out a frustrated growl.  He turns and walks away a few moments later, now left to consider everything that Christian Underwood had said to him.  



June 22nd, 2015
Boston, Massachusetts
Exact Location: Unknown


The Cadillac sedan belonging to Rage’s childhood psychiatrist, Dr. Acklund, pulls into the empty parking lot of what appears to be an old run down abandoned building.  Windows are broken out on several of the floors and No Trespassing signs are posted all around the building, but that doesn’t stop the car from pulling up to the building.  Dr. Acklund is still behind the wheel, having been ordered by Rage just a short while ago to follow his directions.

The moment Dr. Acklund pulls his car into the parking lot of the building, he knows exactly where Rage has taken him, and the significance of the location.  This building was home to the pediatric psychiatric ward where Dr. Acklund treated Rage as a child.

Dr. Acklund: W-why did we come here?

Rage turns in the passenger seat and glares at Dr. Acklund with a malicious look in his eyes.

Rage: You losing your memory in your old age, Doc?  Don’t you recognize this place?

Dr. Acklund nods and he grips the steering wheel nervously.  He doesn’t want to be here, that much is clear.

Dr. Acklund: Of course I recognize this place, Jake.  I just don’t understand why...we need to come here...after all these years.

Rage: Get out of the car.

A look of surprise crosses over Dr. Acklund’s face.

Dr. Acklund: I’m sorry, what?  Why do I--

Rage: JUST GET OUT OF THE FUCKING CAR OLD MAN!

Dr. Acklund nearly jumps out of his skin and he does as he is ordered, as quickly as he can.  And given his frailty, it isn’t fast enough for Rage’s liking.  Rage follows behind him, stepping out of the passenger side and walking around the car, joining Acklund at his side and he looks at the building he called home for so many years.

Rage: I brought you here because I had a feeling you’d try and pull the memory loss bullshit while I question you.  So, what better place to jog your memory than where it all started, doc?  Does this all sound good to you?

Dr. Acklund stares at the building, almost terrified at what might lay in store for him.  He hadn’t seen Rage in quite some time, true, but he was all too familiar with what he was like as a child.  And from the looks of it, nothing had changed.

Dr. Acklund: I-I-I’ll tell you anything you want to know….anything I remember.  Just please...don’t take me inside that place.

Rage: Why not, doc?  Doesn’t it hold some good memories for you?  I know it does for me.

 
Rage lets out a maniacal laugh and shakes his head, and Dr. Acklund doesn’t look any less terrified.  His life begins to flash before his eyes, as he thinks that Rage just might kill him soon.

Dr. Acklund: Look, Jake, you don’t understand how sorry I am for everything you were put through--

Rage: Sorry, my ass!  Start walking, doc.  You might be old and have brittle bones, but that won’t stop me from dragging your ass inside if I need to!

Dr. Acklund lets out a sigh and nods.  He slowly starts walking towards the entrance to the building with Rage walking slowly behind him.  Once they make it to the door, a large deadbolt is seen.  Dr. Acklund tries to turn around thinking there is no way for them to get inside, but Rage grabs a hold of his arm, holding him back, and with one powerful kick, breaks the door open.  Acklund shakes his head and is forced to walk inside, and Rage doesn’t need to tell him where to go.  They walk down a couple flights of stairs to the lower level where the pediatric ward used to be.

Dr. Acklund: Okay.  We’re here.  I told you I would answer any questions you have, but we didn’t really--

Rage: Yes, we did have to come here, doc.  I had to bring you here, because I want to know why...Why the fuck was I sent here?!  Why did I have to live the rest of my childhood in this hell hole?!

They stand in the hallway, just near where the nurses station used to be.  The ugly old wallpaper is peeling in several places and the counters and doors are lined with dust.  Despite all that, Rage can see how this ward used to look in it’s “glory” days.  He’ll never forget it.

Acklund closes his eyes and takes in a deep breath as he prepares to tell Rage everything he wants to hear.

Dr. Acklund: You have to understand, Jake.  You were a very troubled little boy.  Regardless of the circumstances surrounding when you were brought here, you would have ended up here eventually.

Rage laughs and shakes his head.

Rage: Bullshit!  I was troubled, yeah, but not enough to warrant being institutionalized!  I could have accepted being put up for adoption or some shit like that, but this place...it ruined my fucking life!  And I want to know why!

Dr. Acklund: You don’t understand.  Your father...he was desperate.  As desperate as a father could be, I suppose.

Rage: Then HELP me fucking understand, doc.  I want to know exactly what happened between you and my father.

All the anger and resentment in Rage’s voice is gone, if only temporarily.  He stares at Dr. Acklund, his eyes almost pleading him for the truth and Dr. Acklund can’t keep the truth from him any longer as the memories completely flood his mind.

******************************

Twenty-six years earlier…

A much younger looking Dr. Acklund sits behind his desk in his office.  He’s going through some paperwork, occasionally signing off on a few things before transferring the paper to another pile.  As he continues going through his work, his office door bursts open and a panicked middle-aged man rushes inside, followed by a nurse.

Nurse: Mr. Sullivan, I already told you that you need an appointment to see Dr. Acklund!  I’m so sorry, Dr. Acklund.  He wouldn’t listen.

Michael Sullivan completely ignores the nurse as he walks up to Dr. Acklund’s desk, breathing heavily and almost in tears.

Michael: This couldn’t wait, Dr. Acklund.  I...I need your help.  Now.

Dr. Acklund remains silent as he stares at Michael for a few moments.  Michael gives him a pleading look until Dr. Acklund just nods and turns his attention to the nurse.

Dr. Acklund: It’s ok, Sylvia.  I’ve got some time to speak with Mr. Sullivan at the moment.

Nurse Sylvia: Are you sure, Dr. Acklund?  I can call security if--

Dr. Acklund shakes his head.

Dr. Acklund: That won’t be necessary, Sylvia.  Mr. Sullivan, you can take a seat.

Michael quickly takes a seat as Nurse Sylvia just nods.  She turns and walks out a few moments later, closing the door behind her.  Dr. Acklund then leans back in his seat and folds his arms across his chest as Michael has his palms placed directly in front of him on the desk.

Dr. Acklund: You have my full attention, Mr. Sullivan.  Now, tell me what has got you so anxious?

Michael: I...I think you know, Dr. Acklund.  It’s my son.  It’s Jake!

Dr. Acklund: Mr. Sullivan, I’m well aware of Jake’s issues, but I told you we could discuss options for further treatment at his next appointment at the end of the week.

Michael buries his head in his hands and lets out a frustrated sigh and shakes his head.  A few moments later, he lowers his hands and stares at Dr. Acklund.

Michael: There’s nothing to discuss, Dr. Acklund.  Something is seriously wrong with Jake and whatever you’re trying just isn’t helping.  He’s evil.  There’s no other way to--

Dr. Acklund: Now, Mr. Sullivan, we haven’t exhausted all measures of treatment yet.  He hasn’t displayed any of the signs you’ve told me about in our sessions.  I have nothing to go on that would warrant having him committed.

Michael shakes his head again and he pulls at what little hair he has as beads of sweat start to drip down his face.

Michael: He’s manipulative, Dr. Acklund!  He knows why we bring him here and of course he’s going to put on a show for you.  I just can’t believe you’re falling for it!

Dr. Acklund: I’m not falling for anything, Mr. Sullivan.  I can see his manipulative ways, but until I witness first hand the potential danger you say he poses, I am using the most appropriate treatment for him.  Now--

Michael: Bullshit!  I woke up in the middle of the night last night to find him standing over me with a knife in his hand!  A KNIFE!  Now, if you tell me he’s not dangerous, than you are out of your God damned mind and incompetent at that!

Dr. Acklund seems surprised to hear this latest revelation about his young patient.  He nods as he thinks for a moment and then leans forward.

Dr. Acklund: That is troubling to hear.  Okay, I’ll have one of the nurses move up Jake’s appointment so I can make my final decision after speaking with him--

Michael shakes his head quickly, narrowing his eyes at Dr. Acklund.

Michael: No.  I can’t take the chance that you won’t do what needs to be done, Dr. Acklund.  I’m going to do whatever it takes to protect the rest of my family, and if you won’t help me...Well, I’ll just have to find someone else who will.

Dr. Acklund: Mr. Sullivan, what exactly do you think needs to be done?  Because it seems to me you have much more than just having him committed planned.

Michael nods, then reaches into his pocket, pulling out a small folded up piece of paper.  He unfolds it and it appears to be a personal check.  He sets the check on the desk then slowly slides it over to Dr. Acklund, and all of the panic and anxiety he was feeling fades.

Michael: What I’m thinking will take some time, but I’m certain after looking at that, you’ll be willing to help me do what needs to be done.

Dr. Acklund glances at the check and his eyes widen quickly before he looks back to Michael, speechless.

Michael: I’ve been informed of the financial struggles you and your wife are facing, Dr. Acklund.  Consider that a generous donation for your help…

Dr. Acklund stares at the amount on the check for a long while, thinking his decision over carefully in his mind.  He knows that should he accept, and the both of them get caught, not only would he lose his medical license, but he could be thrown in prison.  But...he also knows the struggles that he and his wife are going through at the moment, and the amount of money Mr. Sullivan is offering to him could help them out tremendously, and he looks back up to Mr. Sullivan.

Dr. Acklund: I...I’ll help in any way that I can, Mr. Sullivan.  What exactly did you have in mind?

******************************

Back to June 22nd, 2015

Rage: He...PAID you to stage that fire?  To fake my death?!

Rage stands there, frozen in shock after hearing the awful truth of what Dr. Acklund and his father had done.  Dr. Acklund’s face is painted with regret.  His eyes well up with tears as Rage turns away from him, trying to process everything he just heard, and Dr. Acklund takes a step towards him.

Dr. Acklund: It was horrible...awful...what we did.  And as a doctor, the part I played with unethical and illegal, but I was desperate and so was your father.  It may have been wrong, but I know what desperation does to a person.  He was doing what he thought was the only thing he could do to protect his family.

Rage: I WAS HIS FAMILY, TOO!  I was his son for fucks sake!

Dr. Acklund nods and takes in a deep breath.

Dr. Acklund: I know, Jake, and I’m truly sorry.  But, try and think about it from his perspective for a moment.  He was a devoted husband..a loving father.  Do you...Do you have kids?

Rage scowls at the thought, and shakes his head.

Rage: Never been much of a kid person, but what’s your point?

Dr. Acklund: My point is that because you don’t have children...because you don’t have a family you don’t know the dark place that his head went to to protect those he loved.

Rage lets out an annoyed laugh and shakes his head.

Rage: He obviously didn’t love them that much if he started abusing my little brother after all this went down!  I don’t know if it was guilt or whatever, but he took all of it out on my kid brother.  And, fyi asshole, just because I don’t have kids, doesn’t mean I don’t have a family that I’d protect.  Family doesn’t have to be blood, because if there’s one thing that I’ve learned, it’s that blood will turn it’s back on you at the drop of a time just as quickly as anyone else.  Sometimes quicker.

Dr. Acklund: I...I had no idea that happened, Jake.  I...I’m so sorry.  But for what it’s worth, I’m glad that you have some sort of family.  Everybody should have that.

Rage closes his eyes and takes in a deep breath.  He looks around the halls...the complete floor that he lived...no, suffered in for so many years and then he focuses back on Dr. Acklund.

Rage: Everybody, huh?  After everything you said about me..after everything you saw...you still think I deserve a family?

Dr. Acklund: You’re not beyond all hope, Jake.  Trust me when I say that some things...some things have a profound effect on a person.  Perhaps the thing you need is what you’ve always needed.  Not just a family, but...a child of your own?

Rage lets out a loud laugh.

Rage: Ain’t happening.  There’s no chance I’d doom a kid to have the same DNA as my family.  No, this world is better without the Sullivan family name and genes living on.  Thanks for the talk, doc.  It’s all been very...enlightening.

Rage lets out a sigh and starts walking away, brushing past Dr. Acklund.  When he passes him, Dr. Acklund turns around, looking at the back of Rage’s head.  He opens his mouth to speak, but nothing comes out as he’s left speechless and at a loss over what to do next.  Rage leaves the old doctor there as he walks out and away from the building.  And, hopefully, away from Boston for good.



Friday May 20th
Osaka, Japan

Rage has had a lot of time to think about everything Christian Underwood said to him just two weeks ago.  He’s taken a lot of time to process what his boss essentially accused him of...being selfish.  Was Christian right?  Was he really being selfish in asking for a World Heavyweight title shot when Despayre would be challenging for that very title at Into The Void?

Rage doesn’t entirely think so.  But then again, if he truly is being selfish, he wouldn’t agree, would he?  

If Christian Underwood was right about one thing, though, it was the fact that Despayre has been family to Rage for quite some time.  And as much as the kid managed to push Rage’s buttons on a daily basis, life would just be a little...dull...if he weren’t a part of Rage’s life.  

So today Rage is doing something he hasn’t done in a long time, if ever.  He’s actually volunteered himself and Kittie to take Despayre out for a day in Osaka.  This is a decision that could very well come back to bite Rage in the ass.

Synn: I’m sorry, what?  You actually want to take Joshua for the day?  I had no idea you were into self-mutilation.

Rage frowns, and almost immediately starts to regret his offer, but he wasn’t about to take it all back now.

Rage: Look, I just figured you could use the break is all.  And besides, Kittie will be with us, so it’s not like I’ll have to deal with Despy by myself.

Synn: That may be true, but you can’t blame me for being a bit surprised.  I don’t think you’ve ever actually offered to take him somewhere for the day.  Usually he just bugs you until you are forced to give in.

Rage rolls his eyes, knowing that Synn has a point.

Rage: Are you really gonna make a big deal about this, Synn?  And another reason I’m doing this is because *I* am choosing where we’re taking Despy.  He’s not picking the destination this time.

Synn raises an eyebrow.

Synn: Oh really?  And just where are you taking him?

Rage: Well I had considered the aquarium--

Synn’s eyes widen at the thought of Rage even attempting that adventure again, but Rage shakes his head.

Rage: What you’re thinking is exactly why I decided against that.  I actually thought of taking him to the Osaka Castle.

Synn: That sounds like a good choice, actually.  I’m sure Joshua will enjoy that.

Despayre: I’ll enjoy what?!

Synn and Rage immediately turn their heads as Despayre has appeared before them, with Kittie just behind him.

Synn: Well, Joshua...Rage has offered he and Kittie to take you to the Osaka Castle for the day.  Just the three of you.

Despayre’s eyes light up.

Despayre: Really?!  A CASTLE?!  OH BOY!

Rage: Despy, this isn’t your typical castle, though.

Despayre: But IT’S A CASTLE!!!

And just like that, Despayre turns around and dashes past Kittie in a flash.  She doesn’t even have time to call out to him before she chases after him and Synn just watches and shakes his head in amusement.

Synn: Well...I guess he’s all yours for the day.  And remember...you asked for this.

Rage: I’m really going to regret this, aren’t I?

Synn’s only response is an amused smirk, and Rage turns and walks away a few moments later, on his way to catch up with Kittie and Despayre.


Despayre: THAT is the castle?!  That doesn’t look like a castle!

<img sc=”http://eligerzon.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Blog-160-Osaka-Castle.jpg”>

Despayre, Rage and Kittie all stand in Osaka Castle Park, just facing the Osaka Castle.  Rage lets out a laugh at Despayre’s reaction and shakes his head as he turns to Kittie.

Rage: Told ya he’d say that.

Kittie: Oh shut up, goat face.

Rage snarls before he turns his attention back to Despayre.

Rage: I tried telling you that it wasn’t your typical castle, Despy.  It’s a Japanese castle and doesn’t look like the stereotypical castle from stories and movies.  Not all castles are dark and creepy looking.

Kittie stares at Rage for a few moments with a baffled look on her face, but she doesn’t say anything.

Despayre: That’s not a castle!

Rage: I’m sure once we see the inside you’ll think differently.  But let’s walk around the park for a little bit before we take the tour of the castle.

Despayre doesn’t need to be told twice as he skips off, clutching Angel tightly and Rage and Kittie follow behind him.  Rage does his best to keep an eye on Despayre so he doesn’t get lost, and he doesn’t notice Kittie is staring at him as they walk along.

Kittie: Alright, spill it.  What’s going on with you?

Rage turns his head and looks at her confused for a moment.

Rage: Huh?  What the hell are you talking about, Kittie?

Kittie: Something is going on with you.  First you actually offered to bring Despy here and now you’re just acting...weird!  You’re not all Ragey like you normally are.  You feeling okay?

Rage laughs and rolls his eyes as he turns back to look for Despayre.  He spots him and he keeps walking.

Rage: I guess I can’t win, can I?  I guess I just decided to do something different for a change and show that the kid doesn’t annoy me that much that I don’t want to do anything with him.  That and I was hoping to try and get him more interested in actually winning the World Heavyweight Championship.

Kittie lets out a laugh.

Kittie: Good luck with that.  But...why?  I mean, why were you hoping to get him more interested in that?  Everyone else has tried and pretty much failed anyway.

Rage: Because…

Kittie: Because why?

Rage stops for a moment and closes his eyes.  In his mind, he knows the answer to that question, but he doesn’t want Kittie to know the truth.

Rage: It doesn’t matter, alright?  Just drop it.

Rage keeps his eyes locked on Despayre as he darts his way through the cherry blossom trees, looking for the last of the blooms.  The last bloom was at the end of last month and all the blooms have for the most part, disappeared.  But that doesn’t stop Despayre from trying.  With the help of Angel of course!

Kittie: Bullshit it doesn’t matter.  Just tell me what is going on.

Rage lets out a sigh and then growls as he finally realizes that Kittie won’t let this go.

Rage: Because maybe if the kid actually were to show an interest in the World Title, I’d back off from wanting the damn thing myself!  You know how hard it is watch him get the shot at the title and he doesn’t even care about the damn thing, and I’m stuck going or the Internet title again?  You know how that makes me feel?

Kittie: Envious?

Kittie’s response is so quick that it catches Rage off guard.  He was about to say something else, but he nods anyway.

Rage: Yeah, pretty much.  I’m fucking jealous of Despayre.  And don’t you dare say anythign to Synn or Gabriel about this because I’ll never hear the end of it.

Kittie: Dude, you’re talking to the Sin of Envy here, remember?  I know a thing or two about be jealous and envious of others.  And, sorry, but even if Despayre were to show an interest in the World title, doesn’t mean your jealousy would just up and disappear.  As long as you’re not getting the chance for the World title, and someone else is, it’s always going to be there.

Rage: The whole situation just pisses me off to no end, Kittie.  I mean, I’m booked in this rematch for the Internet Championship against Dmitri this week, but I just don’t give a shit about this match.  I’m so distracted and obsessed with the fucking World Title that it pretty much lost me the Internet title in the first place, and it’ll probably be the damn reason I don’t win it back from Dmitri.

Kittie lets out a sigh and shakes her head.

Kittie: All my envy must be rubbing off on you a bit too much.  You better get that shit in check, Rage, because from where I’m standing, you don’t know how to use it to your advantage like I do.  You don’t know how to channel it.

Rage: Don’t even try and turn this into some kind of teaching session, because I can’t even deal with it right now.  Somehow, someway, I have to figure out how to get my fucking head focused on the Internet Championship and only the internet championship, because I have a feeling after Into The Void, Despayre is gonna be holding that belt and there’s no way I’m gonna be able to face him for the title...ever.

Kittie suddenly leaps in front of Rage, placing her hands on his chest, and stops him.

Kittie: Alright, Rage, listen to me...Do you really want Dmitri’s match against Casey Williams at Into The Void to be for the Internet Championship?  Because, if you don’t get that damn title back, that is exactly what is going to happen.  Casey is walking around all high and mighty on himself now think you practically handed him the Internet Championship!  Do you really want to give Casey Williams that kind of bragging power?

Rage: I don’t give a fuck about Casey Williams.  Even IF his match against Dmitri is for the title, he sure as shit ain’t gonna walk outta there with the title!

Kittie closes her eyes and squeezes the bridge of her nose for a moment.

Kittie: You’re not getting my point here, Rage.  It may not be the title you want but it’s a title regardless and it beats having to stand back and listen to Casey run his mouth thinking he deserves the damn shot just because he’s got some beef with Dmitri.  Snap the fuck out of it.  You’ll get your shot at the World title eventually, but in the mean time?  Just fucking focus on the Internet CHampionship.  Make that belt mean something, because it hasn’t meant shit in a long time.

Rage gets too involved in his conversation with Kittie, that it distracts him from looking after Despayre.  Despayre is nowhere to be seen at the moment, but Rage doesn’t even notice.

Rage: It’s a lot easier said than done, Kittie.  I mean, if I manage to win the Internet Championship back from Dmitri--

Kittie: When…

Rage: Alright…WHEN I win the Internet Championship back from Dmitri, I’m gonna be stuck with that damn belt because people are going to keep spouting off bullshit that it’s the only title I’ll ever fucking hold.  That’s I’m only meant for a lower tier title or some bullshit like that.  I’m sick of it Kittie.  I’m fucking sick of it.

Kittie: My God...Would you just STOP thinking about the World title right now?!  Stop giving a shit what anyone else fucking says or thinks about you and just take this for what it’s worth!  A fucking golden opportunity!  You never should have lost--

Rage suddenly holds his hand up and silences Kittie.  He looks past her, to the place where he last saw Despayre, but he doesn’t seem him.  He scans the entire area and starts to panic when he doesn’t see him anywhere!

Rage: Where the fuck is Despayre?!

Kittie: What?  Wasn’t he just back there?

Kittie spins around, looking in the direction Rage had just looked, but she doesn’t seem him either.

Rage: God damn it!  If you hadn’t been yacking away like you do…

Kittie: Whoa!  This isn’t MY fault!  You were the one watching him and you were the one who offered to bring him here!

Rage continues to scan the area and starts walking as they try to find him.

Kittie: Damn it’s a good thing you  don’t have kids!  You can’t even keep track of a twenty-two year old!

Rage: Would you shut up and just help me find--

Their search is over before it even begins as Despayre comes running from behind them, screaming!

Despayre:  AHHHHH!!!  IT’S AFTER ME!

He runs around, arms flailing(poor Angel), and Rage and Kittie turn around to see what has Despayre so frantic, when an innocent little duck waddles slowly past them, letting out a couple of “quacks”.  Rage manages to let out a laugh as they watch it turn and walk towards the water surrounding the castle.

Rage: I wonder what would happen if I had Phil buy a bunch of ducks and put them in Synn’s pool…

Kittie just smacks Rage’s chest with the back of her hand before the two of them chase off after Despayre and several people watch as they try to catch him and calm him down.



I’ve somehow managed to find myself in the middle of something I never fucking wanted a part of.  I’ve found myself smack dab in the middle of a feud between Dmitri and Casey Williams, and I can honestly say I have no fucking idea how to feel about it.  Whatever beef those two idiots have is between them, and I could care less if they beat the fuck out of one another or if Dmitri decides to suck every last drop of blood from Casey veins.  I simply do...not...give a fuck.

But what I do give a fuck about is this undeserved self-entitlement Casey seems to be running around with after Dmitri beat me for the title a couple of weeks ago in Okayama.  He thinks that he actually deserves the Internet Championship match against Dmitri, just because he’s feuding with the guy, but ya know what?  I’m about to rain on that morons fucking parade, because it just ain’t happening and I’ll be damned if my loss to Dmitri is going to give Casey Williams, a.k.a. The Freight Train of LAME something to gloat about.  Casey, I know you’re watching out there...well, ya might be, but let me tell ya this...Jackass, you ain’t got NOTHING to fucking gloat about and there’s not a chance in hell I’m gonna let you continue to walk around talking a bunch of shit about how you actually believe you’re going to take that belt from Dmitri.  You’re fucking pathetic, Casey, and that’s all there is to it.  I’m not going to sit here and waste my time and breath talking about you, because you’re simply not part of the equation this week.  At least, you better not be.  I’ve warned you once, and I’ll warn you again…

Stay the fuck backstage during this match, because if you don’t?  You won’t like the consequences.  The choice is yours, Casey.  Don’t say I didn’t warn ya.

I guess I should focus on the asshole that I AM facing this week.  The same asshole that lucked out and beat me for the Internet Championship on my first defense.  Hate to break it to ya, Dmitri, but you’re about to experience the same exact outcome as I did two weeks ago, because I’m not gonna let you beat me a second time, pal.  I’m not about to let you walk around this place thinking you’re actually better than me simply because you beat me when I was having an off night.  

It was a fluke, Dmitri.  A one time only thing, because, as much as I have my eyes set on a much bigger prize, I started to realize something...The internet Championship can mean just as much as the World Title.  The assholes backstage might not agree.  The world champ himself might not agree, but I can do shit with this title that not even our world heavyweight champ can do.  I can make a fucking statement as the Internet Champion and I intend to do just that.  You think I’d actually let the belt get tarnished in a feud involving Casey Williams?  Fuck that!

I don’t know what bullshit you’re spewing this week, Dmitri, but I can tell ya, I don’t really care.  I’ve tried to watch your promos in the past...tried to listen to you talk, but I just can’t get myself to get very far into that shit.  People who call me boring really need to take a long listen to the shit you say, because I’m not even sure you understand all those words that come out of your mouth.  Not only does that shit give me headache trying to understand it, but it eventually puts me to sleep.  For the love of God, Dmitri...just fucking shut up.

I’m not here for philosophy lessons, Dmitri.  I don’t care what sophisticated trash you want to throw at me next or what the next of your long line of questions is, because you seem to be fucking full of them.  Ya got all kinds of questions, Dmitri, but not a lot of answers.  Why, Dmitri?  Why is that?

I’ll tell ya why…

Because you fucking suck!  You’re boring!  You’re worthless and your words mean absolutely SHIT to me inside of the six sided ring.  Whatever shit you say has no effect on the outcome of the match.  In the end, what it boils down to is who is the more dominant force, and buddy, that ain’t you.  You can try to spill by blood...You can try to suck my blood, but Dmitri...I’m gonna stop you each and every time.  

I’m your Van Helsing, bitch.

You know who Van Helsing is, right?  I’m sure you do, considering you call yourself a vampire and all.  But let me fill you in, just in case you don’t remember.  

Van Helsing is the archenemy of Dracula…Van Helsing is a vampire hunter.  

As it stands right now, Dmitri, I wouldn’t call me your archenemy, but I sure as shit won’t have a problem calling myself that if ya don’t back off from the Internet title.  I won’t hesitate to bring a wooden stake and a shitload of garlic to the ring if it meant destroying your ass and getting my title back.  Well...maybe I won’t go that far, but I will do whatever it takes to get you to just stick to beating the shit out of Casey as often as you want, because if that is your perogative, have at it.  I’m just not gonna let you be the champion walking into that grudge match.

I made the mistake of allowing you to beat me and become the new champion, but I damn sure won’t make the same mistake twice.  I’m walking into Climax Control with nothing, but I’ll be leaving as a two time Internet Champion, and I’ll be damned if I let someone else take the belt from me.

Not you...not Casey Williams.  No one.  

I’m seeing clearer now, Dmitri.  My eyes are opened and nothing is holding me back.  

This Sunday in Osaka...The Internet Championship comes home to the Sin of Wrath.  That’s all there is to it.