[Christian Underwood]

Please post all roleplays here! Have fun and good luck!

[Peter Vaughn]

~The picture slowly comes up on a long beach, with plenty of couples and individuals hanging out all along it The beaches are popular in Oahu, Hawaii, as many people who just want to get away come here exclusively to bake themselves on the hot sand, then cool off in the ocean waters. The drone comes down lower, but not towards the beachgoers, as it's clearly frowned upon to spy on people in their bathing suits... or less. Instead, the drone heads to the side, where we can see Peter Vaughn standing on his own, checking the time on his watch. He looks less than enthralled with the setting. As the drone settles down into the hands of his cameraman, Vaughn turns towards him, raising an eyebrow.~

Peter Vaughn: They actually flew you out here, huh, friend? I figured they would cut the budget down since we're in Hawaii.

~The camera bobs for a moment, as if unsteady. It was really the switchover, though, from the drone to the handheld camera, which our technician seems to be getting better and better at.~

Cameraman: It's in my contract, Mr. Vaughn. Wherever you are going, I can go there as well. I've been following you all across this world tour, haven't I?

Peter Vaughn: I suppose you have been. Fair enough. Still, I've been here on the island for a few days now, and this is the first I've seen of you. Been out... enjoying the sights? You appear to have a pretty significant tan, bordering on a sunburn.

Cameraman: I, er... was doing other work for SCW. That's all.

Peter Vaughn: Uh huh.

Cameraman: But let's not waste time talking about me. We're here about you, the Sin City Wrestling Internet Champion. How are you feeling after recent events?

Peter Vaughn: You mean Goth & I winning the tag-team match over Milo and HB? Or his overreaction on the next Climax Control?

Cameraman: Both. I'd say both.

~Vaughn laughs to himself, shaking his head as he stares back out at the beach and all of the people wasting their time just laying around.~

Peter Vaughn: Nobody can say that I haven't warned Milo all along the way. I've told him that I would do anything to win, and that he needed to come up with his own solutions to get past me. I've instructed him on what he needs to do to take me down and become a winner again. But Milo is just too stubborn. He won't take that last step. That's how once again I was able to get a victory over him, with perfection, I might add.

Cameraman: While it's true you got the win, Mr. Vaughn, many aren't happy with you using an illegal substance on Helluva Bottom Carter... especially Mr. Kasey.

Peter Vaughn: No, it's clear he felt cheated once again. But how many times can I tell him the outcome before it becomes his fault he lost? At some point, Milo needs to take some responsibility for his own actions, or lack thereof. I can't do everything for him. I can't just let him have the 3 count with no effort whatsoever. That just goes against my nature. He's got to EARN it, and so far, he hasn't come up with the plan to do so.

~A beach bunny walks by in a matching two-piece swimsuit. She gives Vaughn a nice up-and-down look, since he's dressed in normal, everyday clothes, instead of his usual coveralls. Vaughn doesn't even seem to notice her. She'd just be a distraction to him as he talks.~

Peter Vaughn: Maybe our 'final' encounter will finally open his eyes up. I'm glad they've made the stipulation to make this a last chance for Milo. It puts all the pressure on him, knowing that if he comes up short again, I'll be keeping 'his' Internet Title until someone gets lucky against me. He's got to feel the weight of the world on his shoulders, wanting to get revenge while also knowing he's out of opportunities. I hope that pressure refines him. I would prefer to face Milo at his absolute best with everything on the line, because then it truly becomes worthy to me to join into the fight.

Cameraman: I thought you always fought hard, no matter who the opponent is.

Peter Vaughn: Eh, I'd say it depends. If it's someone that I can beat hands-down, why should I pull out any major misdirects or trickery? Why make it more interesting? Just pin the man and be done with it. But if I am faced with a direct challenge where anything can happen, forcing me to use everything in my disposal... it just feels better, doesn't it? It feels more worthwhile.

Cameraman: I suppose that's one way of looking at it.

~Vaughn studies the beach and its occupants one more time, bitterly shaking his head, before turning away.~

Peter Vaughn: I have my doubts about what Milo is willing to do. But I'm still excited about our contest either way. If this is to be the end of our feud, then by all means, let it be an epic one here in Hawaii. We can show all of these overweight fools what it truly means to make every second count. When we steal the show for the second time in a row, everyone will have to take note of the greatness of Peter Vaughn... and the fabulous last gasps of Miles Kasey.

~Vaughn turns and walks away, disappearing into the crowd. The cameraman moves as if to follow him, then hesitates, turning back towards the beach.~

Cameraman: You know, I've done my job for the day... I might as well make the most of it, right?

~The cameraman heads towards the changing area, shifting the camera around as he turns it off.~


~As we pick up on another, masked feed, we now see Peter Vaughn getting out of some local transportation down the street, handing the driver inside her pay before walking away. He's heading for a large restaurant seemingly built into one of the hills. It's Haleiwa Joe's Haiku Gardens, one of the most famous restaurants on Oahu. Vaughn heads inside, dusting off his clothes uncomfortably. At least this shows why Vaughn is not wearing his coveralls, as he probably would have had more trouble getting into the door. As it is, he gets a few steeled glances as he walks up to the serving area.~

Peter Vaughn: Hello, I'm meeting my party here for dinner. Miss Sadie Anderson? She should have gotten here already, I believe.

~The lady checks her board and nods before directing Vaughn to follow her. He heads through the restaurant, a little surprised to not being seated nearby. But soon, he sees why, as they come to one of the window tables overlooking Oahu. There, Sadie is sitting, quietly admiring the view. She turns when she realizes that Vaughn is approaching, getting to her feet.~

Sadie Anderson: You're late.

~Sadie says this in a jesting tone, but Vaughn seems to take it seriously, immediately defending himself.~

Peter Vaughn: Sorry, the camera guy found me again and wanted some quotes. I feel duty-bound to give them to him.

Sadie Anderson: You care for him that much that you'd help him out?

Peter Vaughn: Of course not. But if he's replaced, who knows what kind of individual I'd have to deal with next? Better the devil behind a lens you know, right?

~Sadie gives this a laugh, leaning forward to share a kiss with Vaughn. She, out of pretty much everyone on planet Earth, is the only person who seems to truly understand him. It's no wonder that they've been planning to get married. Who else could possibly take on that responsibility? Vaughn steps around to the other side, taking a seat, as Sadie gestures to the plate in front of her.~

Sadie Anderson: I went ahead and ordered us a plate to try. These are black & blue Ahi, a delicacy here.

~Vaughn studies the sashimi style seafood plate, his lip curling to show a bit of disgust. He picks back up the menu, looking it over.~

Peter Vaughn: They cook steaks here, right?

Sadie Anderson: Hah! You need to broaden your horizons whenever possible, Peter Vaughn. This food is delicious, trust me!

Peter Vaughn: I do, Sadie. Of course I do. But with a big match coming up soon, I have to watch what I eat. Nothing destroys a career quicker than having the runs during a PLE match.

~Sadie laughs again, sampling another Ahi, as Vaughn studies the menu. The waiter walks up, clearly having been watching.~

Waiter: Hello, have you had a chance to make up your...

~Vaughn immediately hands the menu back to him.~

Peter Vaughn: I'll take the New York Strip., medium rare.

~The waiter's eyebrow goes up at the order, but he maintains his calm as he turns to Sadie.~

Waiter: And you, miss?

Sadie Anderson: I'll have... the mauka makai. I'm sorry if I mispronounced it...

Waiter: No, miss, you did fine. I'll have your orders to you soon. Thank you!

~The waiter departs, with Sadie pleased with her selection. She looks back at Vaughn, smiling at him.~

Sadie Anderson: Coming thousands of miles to get a New York meal. Typical.

Peter Vaughn: You stick with what works.

Sadie Anderson: I'm getting used to that. I'm just glad I apparently 'work'.

~Vaughn looks at Sadie, surprised.~

Peter Vaughn: You're the best thing that ever happened to me, Sadie. You know that.

~Sadie nods having heard this before. But this time, she seems a little less certain. She leans over the table, holding Vaughn's hand.~

Sadie Anderson: I guess I'm looking for a bit more assurance, Peter. You want me to join you on these trips, but you wander away on your own at times. Every time I've tried to arrange for us to schedule some time off for the wedding, you've had commitments you had to take care of. I know you're a super-busy wrestler, Peter... but at some point, I do need you to put me first, once and for all.

~Vaughn nods, having heard this before. He leans forward, taking hold of Sadie's hand and bringing it close to him.~

Peter Vaughn: You know that there are times, even back at the ranch, where I have to... get away for a while. All from my past... experiences.

Sadie Anderson: I know.

Peter Vaughn: But I always come back to you, don't I? I always seek you out once I'm good again.

Sadie Anderson: I suppose that's one way to look at it. You usually find me at the ranch, after all.

~Vaughn slides himself around, getting closer to Sadie.~

Peter Vaughn: Who knows if I'd go back to the ranch if you weren't there.

Sadie Anderson: Awww, that IS sweet that you'd tease to give up your business if I was off somewhere else.

Peter Vaughn: Hey, a guy's gotta have priorities. And you're a high one to me, Sadie. You're a high one indeed. I love you.

~Peter leans in closer, ready for another kiss. Sadie goes to meet him... and then suddenly urps in front of him, covering her hand across her mouth. She quickly gets up and runs off, heading straight for the women's bathroom. Vaughn watches her go, a little thrown off. He looks down at the remaining Ahi sitting on the plate.~

Peter Vaughn: This is why you don't experiment.

~Vaughn gets up, smiling, and heads over to the restroom, listening for a moment. He can't hear much, though, so he waits patiently for his fiance to come back out. But time passes, and she doesn't. Confused, Vaughn flags down a female waiter.~

Peter Vaughn: Excuse me, I think my fiance ate something that didn't agree with her. Can you go in and check to see if she is okay?

Female Waiter: Of course, sir. Let me see. Miss? Are you okay?

~The waiter goes inside... and then, seconds later, lets out a scream, startling Vaughn. He shoves the door open, looking in to find the waiter leaning over Sadie, who appears to be unconscious near the stall.~

Female Waiter: Someone call for an ambulance!

~Stunned, Vaughn leans on the other side of Sadie, checking her head. He holds onto her arm.~

Peter Vaughn: Sadie...

~As someone yells that the ambulance is on its way, Vaughn stays with Sadie, looking absolutely lost.~


The world can have a vicious right hook, can't it?

I'm sure you've been feeling it, Milo. You were on your way through the stratosphere, heading for the top of Sin City, when you ran into... me. Your course has been deeply altered since that first interaction, hasn't it? Here we sit, ready to face off against, with my holding four straight victories over you. Some have come in the course of the match, with my athletic ability allowing me to scale the ropes and snatch a championship. Some have come due to my intelligence, turning your own weaknesses against you. But now, you definitely have a heavy weight around your neck, weighing you down.

I guess I'm your albatross. Good to know.

But I haven't given up faith on you yet, Milo. Do you know why that is? Well... I'm not sure myself. I should have already moved on. There are other individuals desperate for their shot at the Internet Championship, after all. The line is long behind you. And yet here we are, facing off one more time. Maybe it's because I want to see you at your absolute peak. What's going to lead to that? The fact that all rules have been thrown out the window. The fact that you will be able to do absolutely anything, and it will be perfectly legal.

You won't be able to cling to that morality this time, Milo.

The fans will know that you have the opportunity to extend your repertoire in this one. It's not about flying sky high or tagging in your partner to save you. It's about you being willing and able to use any weapon that comes into play in our contest. It's about you maybe planning on having your guy HB Carter ambush me in the back before our contest. It's about you having all of those options on the table.

You're welcome, Milo. Please take advantage of my generosity.

I will be extremely disappointed if this match gets arranged this way, with the entire arsenal of the greatest wrestlers available to you, and you try to do things the exact same way you've failed against me numerous times now. How could you let that happen, though? Will your pride and stubbornness drag you down for a fifth time? Or will you FINALLY take it to the next level?

I want you to do this, Milo. Do you understand that? I NEED you to do this.

It's the only way, boyo, for you to take that next step forward. You say to yourself, why would Vaughn want this? Well, Milo, it's my way of giving back to this company after a year and a half of being here. I'm working to build the next generation of talent to take over this place. I'm not going to be here forever, after all. There needs to be a wave of talent like you and Eddie taking things over, continuing the legacy of the 'cheaters'. Without that, wrestling will just get... boring.

You're the one, Milo, that can keep the lineage going. And the best part is, in this match, it won't even be seen as illegal. You can't resist this, Milo. You just can't.

I won't let you.

You're going to take those extra steps, Milo, and you're already on your way by brawling with me on Climax Control. You've shown the willingness to lose control. Now you just need to continue forward onto the logical conclusion: that my way is the right way.

And once you get there, Milo, HB will be so proud of you. You'll have regained a championship and proven to the world that you deserve to be the next fighter for the Heavyweight Championship. You'll have the additional talents that could see you taking down Finn and placing yourself at the pinnacle of success here in Sin City.

Or you'll blow it all, once again, and I'll have to shelve the Milo Project forevermore.

Damn, I hate failing. Don't let me down, Milo.

Don't let me down.


~The ambulance is now at the side of the restaurant, with Sadie being loaded inside of it. She appears to be conscious now, holding her midsection and groaning, as Vaughn stands next to her, holding her hand.~

Sadie Anderson: Peter... I don't know... what's happening...

Peter Vaughn: Just hang in there, Sadie. They're going to take you to experts to get the medicine you need, okay? Stay with me.

Sadie Anderson: I... I didn't... I didn't even get... to the entree....

Peter Vaughn: I'm not sure you would have wanted it anyway. Look, they need to get you going. Just lay back and try and rest on the way to the hospital, okay?

~Sadie can only nod, as they place her into the ambulance. Vaughn starts to follow, but is stopped by the driver.~

Ambulance Driver: I'm sorry, sir, we don't allow ridealongs. Just meet us at the hospital.

~Ashen faced, Vaughn can only watch as the doors shut and the ambulance pulls away, its sirens blaring away as it hits the road. Vaughn watches it go, uncertain, as a man walks up next to him.~

Man: Excuse me, I'm the owner of this restaurant, and I just want to send my deepest sympathies to whatever...

~Hearing this, Vaughn immediately spins, knocking the man down with one punch. He glares at him, standing over him as the man leans away in fear.~

Peter Vaughn: This is all your fault. Your restaurant made her sick.

Man: No, that can't be right, our product is taken straight from the sea and is perfectly prepared...

~Vaughn leans down, threatening to hit the man again, and he quickly stops talking. Vaughn gets closer to him, with a menacingly dark look.~

Peter Vaughn: If she... if something happens to her... I'll be back... and you will pay. Understand?

~The man gives a weak nod, terrified.~

Peter Vaughn: Now... how do I go about getting to the hospital?

Man: Oh, OH, we'll have someone drive you there right away! That's no problem at all!

Peter Vaughn: ... Good.

~Vaughn walks forward, impatiently waiting as the man rushes off to get someone under his employ to take the risk and drive Vaughn to the hospital. Vaughn is shaking his head, feeling a lot of rage threatening to overtake him. He fights it down... for her sake.~


Maybe I'm feeling a little of what you're dealing with, Milo.

Were you enraged after I knocked out HB Carter and won our match? You certainly didn't appear to take it too well. Is that still driving you, I wonder? That rage can be a wonderful addition to your wrestling talents. It can give you the strength of 10 men. It can cause you to refuse to give up, no matter what's happened to knock your brain stems together.

But it can also be a massive hindrance. Take it from someone who knows.

I've been there, Milo. I've had times where I was so furious that I couldn't control myself. I went into those contests with no plans. I just wanted to hurt that individual that enraged me. And you know what usually happened? Well, to be honest, I mostly won anyway. I'm just that damn good. But there were a couple of times where my fury caused me to overlook a critical juncture in the match.

My rage against Jim Caedus allowed Joe Montuori to steal away my WGWF World Championship.

My uncontrollable anger allowed Junko Souma to become the TPW International Champion.

I can look back on those matches now and know where I made my mistakes. I've since fixed the ones that I can. I regained the WGWF World Title after that loss, taking down J-Mont. I can't do much to Junko, since TPW closed afterwards... but I'm still considering options to get that one 'resolved'. Both matches were winnable. Both ended up out of my control, through my own fault.

And now, Milo, you face the same challenge.

I still want you to go all out, Milo, using anything and everything you can find. But I need you to be clear-headed while doing this. You think I just 'happened' to have chloroform on me when we had our tag-team match? No, I was fully prepared beforehand for this eventuality. I clearly knew what I was going to do if the opportunity arose, and there it was, perfectly aligned for me.

I was sure about what I was going to do, because I wasn't angry at you.

I was just focused.

So that's your second lesson, Milo. Be willing to break any ethical rules you find weighing you down... but don't be out of control. Don't be a loose cannon. Because then you completely waste your last opportunity against me, and it'll be a complete disaster, for you, for HB, for everyone who's close to you.

Their shame they feel for you will be all encompassing, and there will be no way for you to finally release that rage. It'll probably ruin your relationship and leave you a sad, wasted piece of trash sitting along the side of the road, unloved and unwanted.

So don't let that happen to you, Milo.

Find the balance. Challenge me the right way. And we'll put on the show stealer to end all show steals.


~We now find ourselves at the hospital, where Vaughn is stalking forward, having left his driver behind. He runs up to the main desk, knowing that this is where to go to get the information he needs.~

Peter Vaughn: I'm here for Sadie Anderson. Which room is she in?

~The nurse takes her time, typing away, with Vaughn's fingernails scratching along the counter as he tries to control himself. Finally, the nurse looks up.~

Nurse - It looks like she's being moved to Room 105. I don't see that she can have visitors yet, though... sir? Sir, wait...

~But Vaughn is already moving, charging around the side and heading towards the room. The nurse seems to consider calling security, but decides to hold back, seeing that this is extremely important to the man. Vaughn turns the corner and rushes to Room 105, quickly barging in to find Sadie laying there in bed, with her doctor talking with her. They both stop as Vaughn hurries up to them.~

Peter Vaughn: Sadie? Are you okay?

Sadie Anderson: I'm doing fine now, Peter. Thank you, doctor.

Doctor: I'll let you get some rest. You two have a lot to talk about.

~The doctor leaves, as Vaughn steps closer to Sadie.~

Peter Vaughn: So what do we need to do? Did they pump your stomach? I'm ready to sue that restaurant into obliteration if that's what you want me to do...

~Vaughn is seething, with Sadie quickly grabbing his hand to try and calm him down.~

Sadie Anderson: Peter... it's not the restaurant's fault.

Peter Vaughn: It's not? But... you ate their food... and then you threw up...

Sadie Anderson: I did... but there wasn't a connection between them according to the doctor.

Peter Vaughn: He's already run tests? That seems awfully fast.

Sadie Anderson: Well, he had a suspicion, and the test here confirmed it...

~Sadie reaches to her side, grabbing a test sitting on the table. He shows it to Vaughn, who looks at it with deep confusion.~

Peter Vaughn: This... this is a...

Sadie Anderson: That's right, Peter. It's a pregnancy test. And it's come back positive.

~Vaughn looks from the test to Sadie, multiple times, trying to recover.~

Peter Vaughn: You mean... you mean you're...

Sadie Anderson: That's right, Peter. I'm pregnant.

~Vaughn looks absolutely mind blown as Sadie looks at him, waiting for a reaction. We slowly fade out.~

[MiloKasey]

It’s been a hot minute since they actually were even close to the east coast, that wasn’t a layover for a flight that they were taking to an even further destination.

Coming out of Climax Control in Gettysburg, Miles was so damn riled up following what happened that night that there was no way in absolute hell that he was going to be able to check into a hotel and just settle for the night or even be remotely comfortable on a plane to head back to Vegas.

There were a lot of things that he had to settle in his head and he knew exactly where to start.

Both he and Carter had climbed into the rental, with him taking the wheel and with a couple touches of a button, in the late hours of that Sunday night, he threw it directly into drive and just went.

It was only 30 minutes or so in the time that passed and Carter realized that he wasn’t going to the airport. “Where are we going?”

“We’re gonna take a bit of a detour, love. Hope you don’t mind.” Miles simply stated before his phone went off with the name LJ in bright letters across the screen, “Shit. ....do me a favour, babe? Hit accept for me on that?”

Carter looked at the screen and grumbled, “Do I gotta?”

“Babe, please.” Miles said looking at him briefly, and Carter just rolled his eyes and reached up to hit ‘Accept’ followed by the speaker button, “Hey, bro.”

“Miles, Jesus, where the hell are you?”

“Yeaaaah, sorry about that mate, I needed to get the hell out of there.” Miles said, “I know we had made plans but-”

“Yeah, dinner. You gonna meet me somewhere?”

“No, man...” he took a deep breath, cursing silently to himself, “I’ll owe ya one, alright? But we’re about to get onto the turnpike.”

“Turnpike? Where the hell are you heading?”

“New York.” Miles stated flattly which caused Carter to look at him with those blue eyes wide, “It’s a long story that I’ll tell you about later but I have some business that I need to handle.”

“Do ya need anything?”

“[/color]Appreciated but no, it’s something that I need to do,” Miles said shaking his head at first and then with a quick glance at Carter, “Besides, I got Carter with me just in case I need bail money, which I won’t. But yeah, I think I’ve put this off long enough.”

“Alright, man. You two be safe and at least message me when you get there.”

“If not, I'll call in the morning.” Miles sighs, “Sorry again.”

“Nah, it’s alright. I can figure this shit out myself.”

Miles realized that this was pretty much the first time that his little brother had indeed been on his own but he is a 22 year old man. But Miles just couldn’t help himself, “Maybe Ally is still around...” Miles smirked when he heard Carter laugh.

“Hanging up now.”

“Awww, come on little bro, don’t be like that.” And then the line went silent and the GPS screen lit right back up. The couple sat in silence for a moment, Carter watching the darkness and Miles' eyes on the road. Miles just sighs and as he makes a turn he glances again at his fiance. “You alright over there?”

Carter just nods, sometimes his man confused and worried him with how quickly he was able to change his general course but this was something impetuous even for Miles, but hey...road trip, “So New York?”

“New York, if the roads agree it should be only about 3 hours, give or take...” Miles grips that wheel a little harder, “Sorry I didn’t tell you but- Let’s just say that I saw the opportunity and there is no way in hell I was gonna be able to settle myself tonight so I figured take it while I could. I checked, the old place is empty by some miracle, so I closed it off for our stay. I know it’s last minute but we can visit Bella and Mal if you want. Maybe her, Mattie and Alanah can show you some of the best places to shop. Of course if I know Mattie like I do, she’s going to want to show you her fashion house-”

“You had me at ‘New York’ but I think I need to ask this...What are you going to be doing while we’re there?” he asked, “I mean, not to pry but this is all rather spontaneous, even for you.”

“Something that I’ve put off long enough.” Miles just breathed out releasing the wheel just enough but still in control, “Why don’t you just kick back, relax and get some sleep. I’ll wake you when we get there.”

“If I-95 doesn’t do it first. If you need me...”

Miles reaches over and takes his hand, the hand where he slid that engagement ring on and brings it up to his lip and gives it a kiss, “I’ll wake ya. Sleep, love.”

--

It’s been a year and almost a half.

He left New York on a whim, took what he could fit into his suitcase and a couple of things that he couldn’t be without into a couple of boxes and just left New York with very little warning.

He had always intended to come back every now and again. Instead, he rooted himself in Las Vegas.

Some would have called it selfishness.

He would call it ‘Finding His Happy’. Blissfully happy and he wasn’t about to leave it and lose it.

But what he left behind would come back to haunt him on more than one occasion. Austin and Finn, on more than one occasion, as a prime example. He owed Wolfslair so much, one for bettering him in that ring, him being able to claim control of himself in that ring instead of his old devil-may-care style. The other was an ability to stand up for himself. For so long he took a lot of narcissistic abuse from people in his life and they showed him that he had no reason to even entertain that.

The Lukas Sisters, those two helped him work through a lot of that.

Kallie, and by proxy Aiden, helped him realize that he needed to stop hiding from the things he wanted the most.

Alex Jones, brought him into focus in the ring along with every single talent that he had ever worked with in the ring at the Wolfslair gym in New York.

Austin James Mercer...the heated rivalry that they had should have given Miles plenty of clues that he fucked up with them, and he knew it.

And then there was Finn Whelan, the man that took him in when he had to get out of the rat infested shithole that he lived in when he was snapping out of his latest hell of a relationship. Finn gave him sanctuary in a way when he didn’t have to.

Miles was never shy about making it known that his stay at the Wayward Home that Finn had was strictly temporary. In fact, that’s why Miles even HAD the modest two bedroom apartment quite literally 5 floors down from the penthouse of Finn’s. That was going to be his next step if he hadn’t let his heart lead the way to Vegas.

He never forgot about any of it but if anyone were to ever ask him as to why he just never came back, he would simply say “I found my happy.”

He still proudly took everything that he had learned at Wolfslair and implemented it into his time in Vegas whether it was working with some of the younglings when the door was open for him to work occasionally at GoGym or into his own training with Fenris.

Hell, he would even see Zoey more than anyone because she would come in and spend time with Aron so much that it was amazing that she just didn’t move in the Baltasarsson’s condo. And of course he and Bella were still extremely close as they always were, she also knew better to ask him about everything especially after how her and Mal’s story began.

You go where you are happiest and you hold on and don’t let it go.

But if Miles really wanted to be truthful about all of it....Maybe all of it was a tad bit of cowardice.

After a month turned into 4 months, that turned into 9 and then into a year and even to now...how the hell was it going to be for him to just show back up in New York and look at them all in their faces after ALL this time?

--

They got to New York and right into the apartment and nothing had changed much. He was thankful that Carter had talked him into hiring a decorator and maid for the place when he officially decided to rent out the space as an AirBNB, so when people came and went things were cleaned and fixed almost immediately.

They were here once before already back shortly after Bella had her daughter, and Carter was right, it really was a pity that he spent no real time here as the view even from a few floors down from the penthouse where he decided to pursue his heart’s desire, was absolutely spectacular even at night.

Carter was fast asleep and Miles...was the complete opposite.

He had to pull the proverbial band-aid eventually.

Dawn hadn’t even cracked in the city that never sleeps, he left Carter a note and he was out the door. He took the route he took when he lived at Finn’s just like had been doing it every day. It barely changed at all, except some of the graffiti, hell he ever recognized some of the faces along the way that he saw a year and a half ago.

Once he reached the gym, it was only then when his steps slowed.

The outside still had the basketball court where they would goof off and have a little fun with each other and the neighborhood kids. He walked onto it and just looked around, he sucked at basketball but none of them were made for the NBA which made it just as much fun. Just a bunch of the guys fuckin’ around, heckling the hell out of one another while the girls watched in amusement because they were all shit.

He kept his feet moving into the parking lot that somehow they managed to have and that’s where he stopped himself.

The front door.

He did this shit the last time he was in the city. He got this far and punked out. No one but he knew and he wasn’t about to pass it around. He told everyone that he still proudly waved the banner of Wolfslair but he was too damn chicken shit to make amends. At the least, he owed them an apology.

At the most, he was content on running drills until he puked, because hell he deserved it at this point.

That was even depending on if he could still get into the place.

“The keypad is still in the same spot by the door.” A voice, normally bubbly with her attitude, came across slightly snide. Miles turned his head in the direction and found himself staring at Kallie. She had her bag on her shoulder and her arms crossed. Aiden was coming up behind her, and his expression became somewhat of a frown.

Miles placed a hand behind his head, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. “Yeah…I wasn’t sure if my card still worked.”

“Might as well try it, mate. Sonja doesn’t update the thing though, hey.” Aiden replied, shrugging his shoulders. “If she has, well, you’ll ‘ave an answer.”

Miles reached into his back pocket to pull out his wallet and it took a bit of finagling but he did manage to remove that keycard from the spot that it had stayed, “As you can tell, it hasn’t been moved in a while. Carter is driving me nuts to get a new wallet but I just couldn’t.”

Taking a deep breath, he stepped up to the pad and held the card in front of it and once again as if no time had passed at all his card activated and unlocked the door. Miles just stopped as if he is even amazed by this even being a possibility, and he opened the door up to his shock, “I’ll be damned.”

“Lucky you,” Aiden pushed past him. Kallie, with her arms still crossed, pursed her lips slightly and then moved past him as well, holding the door open with her index finger.

Miles swallows hard before stepping inside the front area of the facility. Sonja was seated at the front.. Alex’s wife ran all of the overhead, and it was rare to see her down here at all. She glanced up and did a double-take. “Miles?” She questioned.

“Hi Sonja,”

“It’s been a while.” She tilted her head backwards, at the gym area itself. “They’re all in there.”

Miles nodded, and swallowed at the same time. This was the moment in time that he had been dreading, but at the same time, he needed to do this. He headed past the desk and into the large warehouse that had been converted into a full-fledged gym, complete with a wrestling ring and a variety of equipment to keep them all in the best shape.

He felt like a pariah when he opened the doors and felt the eyes of the others on him. Alicia threw down what she was doing and walked away in a huff, Zoey following while also trying to explain Miles’ absence to her. In the corner, by the rock wall, was Austin, who nodded in understanding, but his expression didn’t change. Aiden and Kallie had disappeared into their respective locker rooms. Kallie’s brother, Zach, was new to the gym, but he wasn’t unknown to Miles – he raised an eyebrow but went back to what he was doing. Alex, however, seemed mildly annoyed as he leaned over the ropes, nevertheless nodded.

“Look what the cat drug in.”

Miles looked over from the place at the entrance in the direction of the offices that the heads of staff held. Finn Whelan, the SCW World Heavyweight Champion, leaned on the metal bannister outside of his door, an eyebrow raised and a slight smirk on his face. He inclined his head into his office, and then headed inside of it, heading directly for his desk and sitting down. Miles followed, shoving his hands in his pockets.

“‘Lo, Finn.” Miles replied.

Finn turned to his computer and clicked on the mouse. “Sightseeing with Carter?”

“Actually, we made the trip up last night after Climax Control specifically for this. Well, I made it, Carter just came along. Left him back at the apartment, still sleeping.” Miles shrugged, “Told him to not worry about me, to call Bella when he got up. But I really needed to come here.”

A smirk slipped onto Finn’s face, and he chuckled, pushing his chair back and sliding to his printer. “Feeling nostalgic or guilty?” He glanced at Miles’ face, which betrayed more than he thought would. “Ah, the latter. Well, you and me can just be the heathens they keep around to point and laugh at if you’re feeling up to it. I mean, it’s not so bad. I still have an office.”

“Yeah, well I did just run off to Vegas to originally help Carter get comfy and then just sort’ve stayed for someone I fell stupidly hard for and just stayed put. Truth be told, I never in a million years thought for one iota of a second that I wouldn’t have been back here more but the longer I waited, the worse that feeling got.” Miles sighed, “I know I fucked up. Hell I still have dreams of the hell Austin put me through, and you as well. I just- I don’t even know. I don’t even know where to start with even trying to make up for it.”

Peering at him over his desk, Finn leaned forward onto his elbows as he crossed his arms. “Be here.”

Miles raised an eyebrow.

“I’m not saying all the time, I’m not saying once a week. Maybe one week a month, work it out with Alex.” The Irish-American nodded his head. “There’s a lot of shit that goes on in this place – everyone has fuck ups. But the one constant is that they are here. They are putting in the effort for the benefit of this place to benefit ourselves in return. You’re gonna have to run your paces. I mean…if you want.”

“Well,” Miles leans against the wall he was standing by, “I haven’t slept for shit because of how nervous I was about all of this but...you think they’d let me start now?”

“Wanna be hazed today? Because I’m sure McWaffletwat would be happy to provide that judging by her adorable demeanor.”

Miles smirks and looks back for the moment, “Well, I do believe the saying is ‘No time like the present’.”

“Then I would say…get to it.” Finn chuckled as he stood and clapped Miles on the shoulder. He tightened his grip though. “Be careful. And welcome back, kid. If Alex says something, just have him come to me. You know I love to have arguments with him.”

Miles snickered as he rose to his feet. “That’ll never end, will it?”

“Nah. It’s forever.”


--

“Peter, let’s be full on fucking obvious here. No matter how you paint it, you are the absolute asshole in all of this.”

“And I don’t fucking get you, mate. You are actually proud of the things you accomplished after our match of the year candidate, like it’s some big badge of honour to be an absolute shit-heel of champion right off the bat because no matter how hard you tried, you KNEW that you on your best day couldn’t beat my ass cleanly.”

“And hell, good on you, bruv. There isn’t a whole lot of people that could say that they wouldn’t do the same damn thing, and if they would, they would be a liar. The extreme desperation of what you did and have done is nothing short of breath-taking. Not only from the standpoint of someone who has watched this damn business for a long ass time, but as the man that you STOLE that Internet Championship from. You didn’t beat me bruv, you took it like a thief in the night and because- as the saying goes- the referee’s decision is final, you got away with an absolute sham of a win.”

“You have been walking around SCW like you won the lottery when we all know you robbed a piggy bank. And it’s a shit move but you just had to keep piling and piling and piling onto that. First of all, you are SO damn lucky that in that match that got your ass knocked out of the Blast From the Past, that it was Bobbie that ate that pin and not you. If you had dropped that title to Raven, I would have never forgiven you ever.”

“You may be a tosspot but he’s fuckin nuts and I just don’t have the time to deal with that right now.”

“But that match...that tag match in Turkey- I bet you have been praying since you had to use chloroform to knock Carter out, that I wouldn’t catch you. You’re lucky that our training staff knows what the hell they are doing because of how that country treats those of the LGTBQIA community. You put Carter in a lot of danger because your ego will never let you lose ANYTHING fairly. And you better fucking believe that I am going to take a whole lot of anger about that out on you because you honestly fucking deserve it.”

“You proved that time and time again. You are without a shadow of a doubt a sham of not only a champion but even as an SCW Superstar. I thought the Saviors were better than that but sometimes I really shouldn’t be allowed to think. But I think the fact that even I have hit my limit with your bullshit is why I even remotely agreed to this match to begin with. When approached with an idea of what it should be, there was one passing moment of potentially getting some flesh eating fish but- been there done that and I don’t think Carter would forgive me ever again if I had another scar on my ass from that.”

“Hell I even suggested possibly chucking someone off the side of the boat but that was frowned upon as well because the United States Navy can’t seem to bare the insurance costs...because the BILLIONS of dollars that this country spends on its military is just pulled a little too tight right now. BUT I DIGRESS! No, mate, if we’re going to end this, we’re going to end this properly. You, me and no more bullshit, no more fucking excuses. We’re going to beat the absolute piss out of one another.”

“Actually, nah, scratch that, I’m gonna beat the ever loving piss out of you. WHY? Because you deserve it, mate. You have been taking a piss out of everyone that you possibly could for a long time now and there have only been a handful that have managed to put your ass in your place. I could have been that a while ago but hell, I always loved the chase a little bit more.”

“You, Peter Vaughn, Savior and SCW Internet Champion are about to find yourself in the roughest situation of your entire life. I’m not out for JUST the Internet Champion. I’m out for redemption. I’m out for revenge. I’m out for your blood, bruv.”

“The Internet Championship is just the prize at the end of that particular rainbow.”

[Peter Vaughn]

~The picture slowly opens up on the hospital here in Oahu, Hawaii, as we see our faithful cameraman making his way off the elevator, looking around in either direction. He takes a few steps in, thinking it over, before deciding to make his way towards the help desk on this floor. He makes sure to adjust his camera, keeping it out of sight, as he talks to the receptionist.~

Cameraman: Excuse me. I'm looking for the room of Sadie Anderson? I heard she's on this floor, but they didn't mention a room number to me.

~The lady puts on a fake smile and nods to him, before punching up the information on her computer. She then hands him a card, presumably with the room number on it, pointing for him to head to the right down the hall. The receptionist then goes right back to work, turning away from him, all while not saying a word.~

Cameraman: Uh... thank you.

~The cameraman turns and goes that direction, glancing in a few of the rooms. In one, he sees that they're cleaning the room out, with one nurse removing the sheets from the bed while another is putting personal effects into a box. Sitting near the exit to the room is a flower arrangement made up of yellow hibiscus. The cameraman checks the nurses again, before grabbing the flowers and taking them with him.~

Cameraman: Waste not, want not.

~He maneuvers down the hall, finding the open door of Sadie Anderson's hospital room. He looks inside, making sure to get a full view of the room with his camera shot. Instantly, he knows that only one person is inside. Sadie is asleep on the bed, still recovering from the collapse she had recently. The cameraman doesn't want to disturb her, knowing she needs her rest. So he sets the flowers on the table near her, then turns and leaves, looking around. A doctor is walking along the hall, glancing at the cameraman, then doing a double take. The cameraman quickly steps forward towards him, putting on his own smile.~

Cameraman: Hello! Ummm... are you the doctor who has been treating Ms. Anderson?

Doctor: Yes. I'm afraid she really doesn't need to be disturbed by the press at this time.

Cameraman: The... press? Oh, you mean this...

~He shakes the camera for a second and laughs.~

Cameraman: No, I'm actually looking for... the gentleman who would be staying with Ms. Anderson. Mr. Peter Vaughn? Have you seen him recently?

Doctor: Oh. Him. Yes, he was here a little while ago. I believe he went downstairs to our open cafeteria to get some air.

Cameraman: Ahh, thank you very much!

Doctor: A'ole pilikia.

Cameraman: Bless you.

~The cameraman walks away from the bemused doctor and heads for the cafeteria. Inside, he turns, checking out some of the local delicacies. But he's got to save that for later, as he spots his prey near the back, sitting alone at a table. Peter Vaughn has a drink in front of him, but it sits untouched, as he is staring off into space. The cameraman moves in front of him, focusing the camera.~

Cameraman: Mr. Vaughn! Hah, I tracked you down again, didn't I?

~Vaughn doesn't seem to react to him. He's still staring downwards, towards his full cup in front of him. The cameraman coughs for a second, as if trying to inspire a reaction, and finally, Vaughn appears to raise his head.~

Cameraman: Hey, uh... oh, let me be the first to congratulate you! I heard the news!

~Vaughn quirks an eyebrow up at the cameraman, blinking for a second, before suddenly smiling.~

Peter Vaughn: Thank you, my friend. But I think you're jumping the gun on your congratulations. I know I'm extremely confident in beating Miles Kasey again, but even I'm not calling it a foregone conclusion even before the show. I won't completely disrespect Miles like that. Still, I admire your optimism.

Cameraman: Uh, no, Mr. Vaughn, that's not what I...

Peter Vaughn: I know, a lot of oddsmakers are probably listing our match as the most predictable on the card. But I don't believe that. I can't go into this contest thinking like that. You know, they say you flip a quarter enough times, it'll eventually end up on tails. It's just the law of averages. So maybe this is finally the time where Lady Luck gives Miles a pass. Maybe I slip at just the wrong time, and the ref makes a very aggressive count, and suddenly he's finally on the board against me. I certainly won't help my chances by being too overconfident. So save your congratulations until I've got my hand raised, okay?

~With that, Vaughn picks up his glass and drinks like he's never enjoyed this particular beverage before. The cameraman seems a little stunned, but manages to recover.~

Cameraman: So, ummm... how is Ms. Anderson doing? I went by her room...

Peter Vaughn: Ahhh... thank you for checking in on her. I believe she's recovering quite nicely. She should be released from the hospital tomorrow morning, if everything else clears on her tests. She'll be in the stands to root for me during our match, don't you worry about it.

Cameraman: And her... condition?

Peter Vaughn: Condition? I just told you, boyo...

~Vaughn looks genuinely confused, as the cameraman tries to delicately broach the subject on his mind.~

Cameraman: She's... she's pregnant, right?

Peter Vaughn: Oooohhh, that. Yes. Yes, that's what the results say.

~Vaughn goes back to his drink, finishing it, as the cameraman waits for any other kind of reaction. All he gets is Vaughn standing up, holding onto the cup and looking around for the trash can.~

Peter Vaughn: I probably should get going. Lots to do before the big match, you know!

~With that, Vaughn walks off, leaving the stunned cameraman behind. He's never seen Vaughn in such a state before. A state... of denial. We cut away.~


~The picture comes back up, now showing Vaughn jogging along the road in Oahu. He is sweating from the heat, but seems to be enjoying the exercise as he continues his run. He passes by several people who turn and look his way, recognizing him, but Vaughn doesn't bother to slow down. He's too into the thrill of the run. He checks his watch, noting where he is using the GPS built into it, and then makes a right at the next intersection, heading back towards downtown. This is where the hospital is located... but Vaughn isn't headed there, either, at least not yet. His jog takes him down another street, back to the hotel where many of the Sin City talent is staying for Into The Void. It's only there that he stops, looking startled, as the man in the wheelchair turns towards him. A smile breaks out on Vaughn's face as he heads towards his half-brother.~

Peter Vaughn: Thomas! Why the devil are you here, you goofball??

~Vaughn grabs Thomas Hill's arm, about as close as he comes to an embrace in his family. Thomas returns the handshake, smiling up at his half-brother, glad that he found him.~

Thomas Hill: Hello, my brother. I guess you never got my messages?

Peter Vaughn: Ahhh, if you left them with the hotel, I haven't been here until now. Honestly, I was only coming by because I needed a shower and a change of clothes.

Thomas Hill: Yes, I guess you've mostly been at the hospital. I was going to try there next. Mom told me what had happened, and I decided to catch the first flight out here.

~For a moment, Vaughn looks quizzically at his brother. But he reads right through him, smirking his direction.~

Peter Vaughn: You just felt like you HAD to fly out to Hawaii, huh?

~Thomas laughs, hearing the humor in Vaughn's tone.~

Thomas Hill: Okay, so it didn't take much convincing. I've been needing a vacation, and a chance to hang out here in Oahu? It's hard to resist. But I ALSO came for you, brother. You and Sadie. You're both family, after all.

Peter Vaughn: Well, not yet, but it's getting close...

Thomas Hill: No, trust me, Peter. She's family too. Especially now.

Peter Vaughn: Now? Why now?

Thomas Hill: Because... she's pregnant, isn't she? With your first child?

~Vaughn looks a little annoyed, being reminded of this once again. He rubs at the back of his head.~

Peter Vaughn: Sure. That's what the doctors say.

Thomas Hill: ... What? You don't believe the doctors? You think it's something else?

Peter Vaughn: No. No, the tests are pretty standard, aren't they? And they're all saying the same thing.

Thomas Hill: So... she IS pregnant, then?

Peter Vaughn: She is. I just... don't think it's mine, that's all.

~With that, Vaughn takes a look at his watch, ignoring the shocked expression on Thomas' face.~

Peter Vaughn: Hey, I need to go in and start get cleaned up. I'm supposed to be back at the hospital in an hour. We'll get you a hotel room set up, okay?

~Vaughn turns and heads into the hotel, with Thomas looking after him, his mouth open. He shuts it, shaking his head, before heading after his half-brother into the hotel.~


Belief is important in our line of work, Milo.

I think I've made my feelings quite clear about my beliefs about you. I see you as having immense potential, a future Heavyweight Champion if you make the right moves in your career. I see you as a man who is clinging to a sense of morality that's mostly abandoned in the wrestling business right now, feeling like the only way to "win" is to get a completely clean, interference free pin or submission.

In other words, wasting that potential.

But I think your beliefs of me are far more dangerous, Milo. You seem to think that I'm a man who can ONLY win through nefarious means. You have this impression that I apparently believe that you could beat me easily if I didn't resort to 'unclean' tactics. This image that you've built of me in your mind, Milo, is just... wrong. So wrong. I really don't know how you allowed this to fester in your mind like that, really.

I mean, c'mon, Miles. Go back to the first time I beat you. Do you remember? I know it was a while ago, back in February 2023. That seems like forever, doesn't it? So I guess I can't blame you from blocking out the memory of me pinning you after landing the Revenged... completely cleanly. I got that 1-2-3 count on you without any of the tricks you seem to think are the only way I can win.

History kind of refutes that, doesn't it?

And then, what about Summer Xxxtreme XI? We faced off in that Ultimate X match for the Roulette Championship. You can't blame The Troll for any outside interference there. It seems that I won that one pretty much straight up, according to the rules. I got the championship first, while you took that dip into the pool. Clearly, you've tried to forget that, since you still want to believe that there's "no way" I could win like that over you.

Are you starting to get the point, my friend?

So yes. Lately I've been using some... alternate strategies in our competitions against each other. Some definitely disapprove of them, and you're obviously still enraged by these tactics. But I've shown in the past that I don't NEED those tricks to be victorious over you. I've beaten you straight up on multiple occasions. That said, the other times I've won, especially recently? Those count as well, because according to the referee, as you said, they were 'clean' as well.

A win is a win, right?

You just can't get hung up on things like "right" and "wrong", Milo. You know in the Civil War, who thought they were right? Both sides. You know the battles in the two World Wars were fought with pure knowledge that each side was correct, at least how they saw it. You remember when the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles played in the Super Bowl? Both believed they should win!

Okay, that last one might be a bad example, because as far as I know, neither team broke any rules. Or they were just very clever about it.

Look, man. I just want this to be our greatest match in our story, Milo. I've already said that I want you to take your game to the next level and show me that you have the willpower to do what must be done. But your inability to see the simple truth that I've beaten you in multiple ways worries me. Denial can be deadly to a wrestling career. Why, before you know it, you might be saying that EVERY wrestler is cheating, and that EVERY wrestler is holding you back.

You might even turn on Helluva Bottom Carter, and NO ONE wants to see that.

So just take this advice from me, Milo. Shake loose from that method of ego protecting and face the facts. I'm definitely good enough to defeat you in a completely clean, fully-reffed match. I've done it before, and I could do it again, if I so chose. But we're facing off in a match where there are no rules. You need to keep that in mind and act accordingly.

Face your fears and use them. Put that energy into your devotion for wrestling.

And do what must be done.

Or else I'm going to do what I always do: win.


~We rejoin the shot inside the hotel room of Sadie Anderson and Peter Vaughn. Of course, Sadie is still at the hospital, leaving this room mostly unused. Right now, Thomas Hill is sitting in his chair, waiting, as he hears Vaughn getting cleaned up in the bathroom. He seems a little on edge, as he's making a phone call at the moment.~

Thomas Hill: I don't know, Mom. I'm going to try to get to the bottom of it, I swear. Yes, yes, I'll be sure to visit Sadie soon too. She's fine, though. Right. I've got to go, it sounds like he's almost done. Okay. Love you too, Mom. Goodbye.

~Thomas hangs up the phone, turning to his side as the bathroom door opens. Vaughn steps out, now dressed in his usual coveralls, which wouldn't have been very easy to do a full summer jog in. He moves to the side, collecting his personal effects to put into his pockets, as Thomas watches him.~

Peter Vaughn: Definitely feels better to be cleaned up again. So, Thomas, did you get anything to eat on the way over here? We can stop and pick something up on the way to the hospital... or the cafeteria is there. It didn't look like the food was too bad there...

Thomas Hill: I'm okay, Peter. I'm not that hungry at the moment.

Peter Vaughn: Alright then. Should we get going to the hospital then? Sadie will be expecting me soon.

~Vaughn steps towards the door, but Thomas maneuvers his wheelchair in front of him. He's really become quite skilled in directing himself around. Vaughn looks at him, puzzled.~

Thomas Hill: Can we take a minute to talk first, Peter?

Peter Vaughn: Ummm... I suppose. Although I really don't want Sadie to worry about where I am. She's got enough on her mind right now.

~Vaughn steps back, waiting, as Thomas watches him closely for a moment.~

Thomas Hill: So I really think we need to talk about the fact that you don't think Sadie is carrying your child.

Peter Vaughn: Oh, come on, do we really need to go over that again?

Thomas Hill: Yes, I think we do. Do you really think Sadie was... unfaithful?

~Vaughn sighs, sitting back on the bed. He shakes his head, but then shrugs.~

Peter Vaughn: I don't know if I'd call it that. I just know that... it wasn't me.

~Thomas looks deeply confused, as he knows Sadie fairly well at this point. He's seen nothing to make him think there were any problems between the two.~

Thomas Hill: So I have to ask... have you two not been... together? Are you waiting for marriage? Is that what this is all about?

Peter Vaughn: Hah! No, no... we haven't waited. Y'know, I never really expected to find a connection with someone like I have in Sadie. But there have been many, many times... together.

Thomas Hill: So... wouldn't that mean there's a chance that the baby will be yours?

Peter Vaughn: No. There's no chance. Now can we go?

Thomas Hill: No we can't!! We need to talk about this!!

~Vaughn sighs, realizing that his half-brother just isn't going to take his word on this.~

Peter Vaughn: Look... you know who I was back in the day...

Thomas Hill: You don't mean...

Peter Vaughn: Exactly. I was a janitor.

~Thomas can't help but let a short snort of laughter come out, although Vaughn doesn't think to find it so funny.~

Thomas Hill: Sorry. Yes, you were a janitor. So?

Peter Vaughn: So... in my line of work back then, I was exposed to a lot of chemicals. Bad chemicals. Cleaning chemicals.

Thomas Hill: Yeah, you've used Roto Rooter. So what?

Peter Vaughn: So, by being exposed... I've been told I'm infertile.

~Thomas is no longer smiling, as his eyes go wide. Vaughn takes a second before continuing.~

Peter Vaughn: It's never been anything I worried about. I never planned to have a kid. I saw what my dad had to go through. I didn't see any reason to take someone on a similar journey.

Thomas Hill: ... When did you find out this news?

Peter Vaughn: Ummm... it was probably a decade ago. Maybe longer. I lose track. I mean, I've been wrestling for a while now.

Thomas Hill: So you got this diagnosis before you became a pro wrestler? Back when you were poor?

Peter Vaughn: I... suppose so.

Thomas Hill: So it wasn't a great doctor. Probably one of those free clinics that popped up now and again, right?

Peter Vaughn: ... Most likely. I don't really remember.

Thomas Hill: So let me get this straight. You're basing all of your beliefs right now on a quack doctor you visited a long time ago? Isn't there a possibility that things have... changed? I mean, you've been in damn good shape for years, right?

Peter Vaughn: No, but... the test results back then...

~Vaughn looks a little shellshocked, as if he'd never considered any other option. Thomas rolls closer to him.~

Thomas Hill: Look, before you make any more 'certain' determinations, maybe you should get tested by a real doctor? And until then, you should be with your future wife... and the possible future mother of your children.

~With that, Thomas backs himself up, giving Vaughn access to the doorway out of the room. Vaughn slowly nods, seeing the logic in what Thomas is saying. He pats his half-brother on the shoulder, then steps past him, leading the way out. We cut away.~


It can be hard to accept some truths, Milo, even if it's a truth that should benefit us.

Let's talk about another truth that you brought up. You talked about how when I knocked out HB in our tag-team match, I left him in a dangerous situation in Turkey. I can see how you could think that. I'd be the last person to have anything to say about the struggles of the LGTBQ community. But you left out a major element that maybe you don't even see.

I knew you'd be there for HB.

I mean, come on. That was all part of the lesson, wasn't it? To show you that I can use weaknesses against you? But the only reason that would work was that you would rush to HB's side. Obviously, there was no danger there. Maybe I have more faith in your abilities than you do, but I knew you'd do get HB to safety. Just as I knew my actions there would cause you to start to lose control on the next Climax Control.

It's all part of the plan.

The plan to teach you the final lessons that you will need to be up on my level in the wrestling business. The chance for you to begin chasing your own streak, like my holding a dozen World Titles in this business. Now, it won't come right away, obviously. I still intend on winning our little contest and blocking you from your precious Internet Championship. But you still have the opportunity to show me up, to prove to me that you're the better man. But you won't get there by worrying too much about HB, and you won't get there by trying to stay 'pure'.

You'll only get there when you're ready.

Let's go to the final reel, Milo. You know that this is your last opportunity against me. You know that so much is on the line here. So consider this your ultimate moment of self-discovery. What are you willing to do to stop me from taking you down one last time? What extremes are you prepared to use in order to become the Internet Champion again? How precious is this title belt to you? It's up to you to decide that.

I can't do it for you, after all.

I can only point you in the right direction.

I'm only interested in your best, Milo, and I guarantee to you that I'll do the same. I'm going to bring every possible maneuver I've learned into this contest, from the high-flying attacks that I've made my name with, to the technical submissions I've picked up along the way. I'm going to be looking for every advantage that I can use to take the victory, too. That drink the fan is holding in the second row? I'll use it to blind you. That sledgehammer hidden underneath the ring apron I'll use it to fracture your ankle. That person I hired to assault you when you least expect it?

Well, maybe that person doesn't exist. Or maybe he does. You can't really know, can you?

Can you really guess all I'm willing to do when there are absolutely no rules in my way? Hell, for all you know, we're bringing back every Savior from past to present to take a shot at you. You could see Goth, throwing you around the ring. Maybe Ken or Mac make an appearance. Or maybe it'll be from places you'd never expect. I'm good friends with Joe Montuori nowadays, he'd probably be just fine with showing up and throwing a fireball into your face. Or what about Xavier Lux or Alexander Marshall? I could have them waiting in the wings.

Or maybe none of them. But can you possibly risk that, Milo? Shouldn't you have your OWN army on speed dial?

Shouldn't you be prepared for any and all eventualities if you want to be a champion again?

And shouldn't you be willing to pull the trigger on an ambush, even if my guys don't show up?

Although... they definitely MIGHT show up.

They might.

The point is, I'm going to go all-out, Milo, and I really, desperately want you to do the same. I can't stress enough that you'll regret this moment for the rest of your life if you don't follow through, and I don't want that for you. I want you to believe that you did everything you could to come out the winner in our final contest. I don't want you to feel like you left anything on the table.

You've got to do it, Milo. For you. For me. For HB. For everyone.

Don't let us all down.

Or else the Plunge you take will be the least of your concerns for the rest of your life.

I'll see you on Sunday, boyo.


~As the picture returns us once again to the hospital, we see Peter Vaughn and Thomas Hill now around the bedside of Sadie Anderson. She smiles at Peter, holding his hand, before looking over at Thomas.~

Sadie Anderson: You really didn't have to come all this way just for me, Thomas.

Peter Vaughn: No, he didn't, but those frequent flyer miles had to be used sometime, didn't they?

Thomas Hill: I'll have you know that I... didn't JUST use frequent flyer miles...

~All three of them laugh, with Sadie wincing slightly. Vaughn leans over, tightening his grip on her hand.~

Peter Vaughn: Does it still hurt? Do we need to get the doctor again?

Sadie Anderson: No, it doesn't hurt. It's just... a new sensation. I guess I'm going to have to get used to it, aren't I? This is only the beginning.

Peter Vaughn: It's quite the beginning, too, isn't it? Not one we were expecting... but I'm... glad nonetheless. And Sadie... I have something I wanted to ask you.

Thomas Hill: Do I need to leave the room?

Sadie Anderson: Stay, Thomas, please. What is it, Peter?

~Thomas looks a bit concerned, knowing their conversation from earlier is still on his half-brother's mind. But Vaughn has a different question in mind.~

Peter Vaughn: Do you want to get married... this afternoon?

Sadie Anderson: What?

Thomas Hill: What?!!

~Both Sadie and Thomas stare at Vaughn with open mouths, as he simple shrugs his shoulders.~

Peter Vaughn: You've been wanting us to get on with it. This seems like as good a time as any. There are a few places that are absolutely stunning near here, where a minister will take care of it for us. We can still have a big ceremony back home, but I... I want to do it now. Here. But only if you feel up to it.

~Sadie stares up at Vaughn for a few more seconds, before suddenly exploding out of the bed and embracing him.~

Sadie Anderson: Of COURSE I'll do it!! Peter!! I love you!!

Peter Vaughn: I love you too, Sadie.

~Vaughn then looks over at the still gobsmacked Thomas.~

Peter Vaughn: Would you be the best man, Thomas?

Thomas Hill: M-me?

Peter Vaughn: Well, I'd rather have a wrestling buddy or two, but since you're the only one available...

~Thomas glares at Vaughn for a moment, before he catches the half-smirk on his face. Thomas then laughs.~

Thomas Hill: I'll be the stand-in. Sure!

Peter Vaughn: Then let's get the doctor to release you, Sadie, so we can get this show on the road! A wedding in Oahu! I just need to make a few calls...

Sadie Anderson: They'd have to strap me down to keep me in here now! I... I'm getting married, Thomas!!

Thomas Hill: You sure are... sister-in-law. Or is that half-sister-in-law? This is getting complicated, hah!

~As Sadie and Thomas continue to talk, Vaughn steps to the side, bringing out his phone. He grins towards them, then steps out of the room. Immediately, his grin fades away, as he waits for the person on the other end to answer.~

Peter Vaughn: Hello? Dr. Fisher? This is Peter Vaughn. I know, it's been a while. Look, when I'm back in town next week... I need to schedule a physical with you. Well... let's just say I need to have something checked in me... to confirm something. Okay, yes, please fit me into the schedule. Yes. Thank you. Dr. Fisher.

~Vaughn hangs up the phone, staring down at it. It's clear that his half-brother's words may not have had the full effect on Vaughn that he thought they did. But Vaughn has always been someone who's practical. No matter what the actual result is of the pregnancy, he knows that he's found some joy in Sadie's presence. He won't let it slip away, just because a child will now be involved. He intends to keep everything that is good for him, after all. He searches for the phone number to the wedding chapel near the beach as we slowly fade away.~

[MiloKasey]

How to Be an Asshole 101
The Peter Vaughn Edition...apparently

So according to Peter Vaughn, the great and powerful and all knowing, I am not a big enough asshole to beat him.

The man with the personality of a kumquat, ladies and gentlemen, is trying to give me etiquette lessons on how to properly beat him.

I “pander to the masses”, he says. I don’t “strike harder and faster”, according to the powerful Oz.

Oh wait, sorry, not Oz, though he was a con man as well, that was extremely adept at fooling even the brightest and the best. But no see, Peter Vaughn seems to think he has all the answer- The very man that had to cheat not just once, but twice...AND had to use chloroform just to garner a win for himself and for the well respected Goth.

So much in trusting in your partner to get things done, Peter.

BUT, coming into Into The Void, none of it is going to matter. NONE OF IT is going to fucking matter. Not the cheating, not the attempted humiliation and not even your really weird obsession that you have seemingly garnered lately, is going to stop me from finally YOU receiving the beating that you have deserved for far too long.

There are no rules in hell, mate. There is only sweat, tears, agony, fire, the heat and most importantly, the blood.

And oh, you have no idea what I am even capable of. Even through all my loses to your ass, you still have no bloody fucking clue. Do ya mate?

That SCW Internet Champion you have?

Look at every single champion that has held it in recent history. And then look at you.

You are a shell, merely...a vessel as it were, holding on to what you know is a ticking time bomb in your hands.

The blood of the ones that came before us runs through that championship, mate.

MY BLOOD runs through that championship.

Blood that I don’t think you have the guts to shed. Not now.

Not ever.

The conman has been exposed, the curtain has been pulled back and you have been exposed, Pete. I plan to expose you even more, I’m going to do a whole lot more than make you bleed.

I’m going to expose your very soul. Layer by layer.

--

Eat Shit With A Little Crow On The Side
Wolfslair Gym
NYC

Finnegan always had a wonderful way with words.

It did absolutely nothing for her nerves though because he was one of the many that Miles needed to talk to throughout this place.

What’s amazing is not a damn thing changed while he was gone, things were exactly as they were. He would take two steps out of Finn’s office and immediately turn towards the locker rooms, open up that door, ...even the smell was still the same. He would open up that damn locker and find the clothes he had left behind, he had washed them just before he left them there along with a pair of sparring shoes.

He couldn’t get changed fast enough. Even though he hadn’t slept for over 24 hours by this point, he didn’t care he was ready to go. It felt like a comfortable broken-in pair of shoes when he threw on those shooters. He was almost completely laced up when he could clearly hear the door open and footsteps to follow.

He didn’t even have to glance over his shoulder, “Hope you’re alright with this.”

“Why wouldn’t I be?” Alex Jones stepped around Miles and looked down at him as he finished tying off the last shoe. “It’s not exactly like we kicked you out.”

That brought a slight smirk to Miles face, “So that wasn’t you that sent Austin after me?”

“Austin is his own man, and you know that. But I couldn’t help but notice that subtle nod he gave you,” he pointed to the spot by Miles who in turn moved just enough to allow Alex to sit, “So I’m assuming respect was earned there.”

“So let me just get this out of the way - Is it okay that well, one that I’m even here? Two - that while my permanent address may now be in Vegas, that from here on out that I pop in, say, once a month for a few days to train? Maybe with Carter in tow?” Miles said and you could see Alex give him a look like did he really just ask that, “To be fair, before you answer, he along with Fenris did put in a good word for me at GoGym to continue to work through things there when I was feeling -”

“Guilty as hell about just leaving here without so much as a goodbye?” Alex said with a calm cool voice and a slightly raised eyebrow

Miles tilted his head side to side, knowing that this was only the beginning to all of the subtle sucking up that he would have to do, “Something like that.”

Moments tick by as Alex gives his beard a quick scratch and then a deep breath, “Let me think about the Carter thing but you are welcomed back here whenever you can. You have made some amazing strides and we’re going to keep building on that and I have no issues with being that mentor for you and maybe I can detour some of the crew from attempting to make an example out of you. I’m not going to promise that everyone else is going to be so nonchalant about it...in fact Alicia-”

Miles sighs and rubs the back of his neck, he knows that is going to be coming eventually, even if Zoey eventually gets through to her...but hell he deserves it at this point. “She's gonna eventually kick my ass in training and I’m going to take it like a bitch because I deserve it. As long as she leaves a little of my dignity behind I’ll survive.”

“Maybe.” Alex laugh, holding his hand out to Miles, “Welcome back, kid.”

“Thanks, Alex. Seriously, thank you.” Miles accepts the hand shake, before Alex pulls him up to his feet.

“Drill time. Let’s get you going.”

3 Hours Later

Drills.

You name it, they ran them.

Bumps of all kinds, Rope Running, Hip Toss on the Give and Receive side, Up/Over Drills, Leapfrog AND Dropdown Drills. And of course not forgetting the classic multiple match run throughs and he didn’t stop for a single second.

That was until after the last one he just laid back on the match, drenched in sweat with the dumbest smile on his face. They didn’t break him and he wasn’t going to let himself be broke but he was absolutely and understandable at this moment, exhausted.

As was everyone else that ran things along with him, and they were all around the ring, drinking water, more like chugging and sucking air. Meanwhile Miles just laid there mumbling and occasionally laughing.

“What in the-” he heard a female voice say and Miles through his blurry exhausted eyes he turned to catch the ever so off-centered Bella Madison and beside her brought the brightest smile to Miles face, Carter. “Did you guys decide to party without us?”

“Heeeeeeeeey Baaaaaaaaaaaabe!!!” Miles let out loudly, “What brings you by?”

Carter didn’t know what to even make of any of this, in fact he was practically concerned with how is fiance even sounded and looked at this point, and went right up to Miles, “Are you - Have you been drinking?”

“Naaaah, just - cathartically exhausted. These guys..” he motions around him and points to all the crew that has remained for training til the very end, “They kicked my ass. And you wanna know the best part about it, my love?....I loved every minute of it.”

Carter just laughs at this crazy man laying on the mat, soaked in sweat and smiling like an idiot.

“OH WAIT! I know! GUYS!!! GUYS!!! Finally after all this time, I would like for you to meet the reason as to why I fucked off for an entire year and a half, deliriously happy and in love, Carter...Carter, meet the rest of the family.” Carter just looks around and gives a small wave, and Miles sits up and pulls Carter in and wraps his arms around him, “I do believe that I have had enough for today, but after I finally get some sleep, who knows maybe we’ll be back tomorrow.”

“You better be, mate!” he heard Finn call out as Carter helped Miles walk away.

“OH! And another thing,” Miles said quickly turning around and smiling at each and everyone of them, “YOU FUCKERS BETTER BE AT MY WEDDING AFTER THIS! I’ll bring the invites to the show or something.”

--

Later The Night

It took a whole lot of energy just to get him back to the apartment, thankfully Bella had driven so he didn’t have to walk the few city blocks from the gym to there. It took everything he had to not pass out in the back seat in the short period of time but once he got in, he managed to find the shower and stark ass naked passed out in bed.

And there he remained for several hours.

Carter nudged him just enough to get him to eat, which he was thankful for but he was more thankful that he didn’t have to leave the bed for them to enjoy dinner. One X-tra large pizza, New York style. He really missed this place, especially times like these.

“Can I ask you something?” Carter said tossing a napkin into the empty pizza box, “What the hell was that all about earlier? Why did you bring us here, not sleep and then head over to Wolfslair like some sacrificial lamb?”

“Well, if you must know,” Miles finished off his pizza crust with a giant bite before he wiped his mouth as well as he swallowed, “Lately I have been trying to let go of all my guilt. Losing the Internet Title, hung on me for a while but this last chance match that I will be having will either go one of two ways. Either I kick his ass and take it back, OR I kick his ass and he still beats me and that’s it. That’s the end of Milo in the Internet Title hunt until some other lucky son of a bitch comes along, dethrones the bastard and I’m back into it, this is provided that I have not moved on to other things.”

“Such as?”

“Main event scene. I’m not saying take aim at Finn and the title, because God only knows I have just started mending that bridge, but getting further up there into that whole scene. There were some that were telling me that they think I’m holding myself back, but I don’t feel like my time with that Internet Championship is over and I want to go into Pearl Harbor and I want to show that son of a bitch that he has me all wrong.”

“So the reason we are in New York and not curling up in our own bed is?”

“I needed to start letting go of my guilt, starting with here.” Miles pulls Carter to him, “I’ve said this a million times and I will keep saying it, I do not for one second regret anything when it comes to our relationship, I love you and adore you and when we get married you may have to get use to a few other of these wild adventures but Wolfslair has always been there. They were there before and they are there even after. They’re the family I had before, that helped me realize how good I could really be. They saved me to bring me to you, and now I’m bringing you to them to help you understand why they saved me, and that they deserved to finally meet the most beautiful human being in my life....if that makes any sense.”

Carter shakes his head with a smile, “I- I’m really not sure it does.”

“It’s probably because I’m still punch drunk from the day.” Miles lets out with a laugh before he lays back and brings Carter with him. They lay in silence for a moment just enjoying the quiet before Carter pulls himself up and leans on his arm.

“I’m beginning to wonder if premarital therapy is a good idea.”

“I think it is a fantastic idea, and you did say that she would be willing to do so and I am all for it.”

“Yeah?”

“Absolutely. Look, I know you are worried about my mindset. I know I have been all over the map lately and I feel like I’m under pressure to rectify everything and I’m going to do that. One with Wolfslair, two with kicking the absolute shit out of Peter Vaughn and then, we are going to finish planning the craziest wedding.”

“Works for me.” Carter says, smiling and laying back down on Miles' chest, “Did you really invite all of Wolfslair to our wedding?”

“Yeah, I think I did.” he laughs, “Guess we’re going to need to plan for more seats.”