Post by Mac on May 8, 2022 22:12:11 GMT -5
The Harbinger of Doom
“Anger and just rebuke, and judgment given,
That brought into this world a world of woe,
Sin and her shadow Death, and Misery,
Death's harbinger.”
-John Milton
{River Camp - Sabine River - “The Game”}
[off-camera]
Heavy and steady rain had fallen overnight. Everything was soaked and the river had begun to rise, which meant that the water moccasins would be running and making fishing almost impossible. “Dad, why do you enjoy shooting these things so much?” The question from my now twenty year old daughter. It amused me no doubt about that. I had explained this to my kids so many times, that the answer was almost auto-pilot. “Well Princess, it’s like this. A water moccasin is like the bull shark of the snake world. They are indiscriminate in who they attack. Virtually everything is their enemy.” I told her this as we stood on the bank of the river. It was just starting to warm up, and it didn’t take long until I started seeing the heads of these things bobbling up and down in the water. “Won't be long before they start heading for us, you ready?” She nodded indicating that she was.
Within sixty seconds of saying that a group of three started heading toward us. I unholstered the nineteen-eleven A and plucked the first one. When the bullet struck its head, it went rigid like a stick and flipped up out of the water. My daughter Julez, fired the next shot with her Smith and wesson M&P shield with the same result. I then caught the last one about six feet from shore. “It can be the same with people too,” I said nonchalantly. A quick snap of her head with an incredulous look, “Da hell?” I laughed as we picked off a couple of more snakes that were inbound. “Well, there are people that are like water moccasins and bull sharks,” I began. With no response from her, I continued. “People in my industry are especially that way. Take Larry Tact and his Game Changers.” She made a face as she shot another one. “That guy is a scum bag!” She declared without reservation or hesitation. So much like her mother, plus she wasn’t wrong. Tact was a real bastard no doubt about that. “To him, it’s all a game. He doesn’t care about those he hurts.” She glared at me as I shot another snake. “Then why take his money to help him?”
I chuckled, “I’ll ask you the same question I asked your Aunt Kat, when you are trying to take care of a den of badgers, how do you accomplish that?” She laughed as she squeezed off another round. “You send the dogs into their den, everyone knows that. How does this relate to you?” I laughed again, “Whoof”. Her eyes went wide with delight. We needed to reload so we backtracked to the truck, near our cabin. “So, you’re going to help her get some kind of revenge?” I smiled at her, “The only reason I’m taking his blood money is to help Kat, yes.” Many people over the years have forgotten that I play the game too. I’m very good at it and can move around without attracting too much attention. You’ve just got to be smarter than the other guy. In this case that wouldn’t take much. Regardless of how close they watched me, this would not end well for them. The same could be said for me to be honest about it, I am a realist after all. “Do you have a contingency for things going south?” I smiled at my smart girl, “Even my contingencies have contingencies. You know that.” She laughed again and we finished reloading.
“Well, ready for round two with these little bastards?” She giggled, “Yes sir.” So we made our way back down the bank for the continued war with the snakes. I had my own method for dealing with the human variety, although I hoped it wouldn’t mean shooting one of them. If it did, it did, I’d feel bad about it for a minute but that was really about all the time I’d have for remorse anymore.
Fade.
{Hell’s Gate - Grand Junction CO - “Family”}
I sat on the tailgate of my truck in front of the school looking up and down the main drag. “There’s not a damn thing grand about grand junction,” I mutter to myself. I knew Kat would be along shortly and we had a meeting with Whisper about what I had done. Neither of the ladies was happy about what I’d done. It was time to make them see reason or at least try to convince them that I knew what I was doing. I lit a cigarette and sat there, focussing on my connection to Whisper to let her know I was here. “Kat will be along shortly,” she said from the top of the stairs. I gave her a thumbs up in response. “When are you going to quit smoking, Mac, you know that shit is gonna kill you.” I chuckled, “Yes ma’am if an angry man doesn’t do that in a ring first.” I heard her laugh behind me and figured there was a head shake as well, I knew the woman loved me but she also thought at times that I was a fool. “Specifically in times like these, MacIntyre.”
“I love you too, Mother of Archangels,” I said in an even tone but one that translated warmth and appreciation. I was her Harbinger of Doom, and that was a title that I relished, it fit me so well. I had only been a part of this family for a short time but it felt like I had known them my entire life. We all had that kind of bond. Kat and I were as close as any brother and sister who ever lived. The attack by the game changers on her in order to psychologically impact Raab was one of the things that made my blood run cold. Kat pulled into the parking lot and when she saw me she scowled at me. She got out of the car and didn’t quite ignore me but it was close to that. “Why are you here?” She said it in a cold and callous way, I was glad she was pissed, now if she could maintain that anger and make it productive. “Oh, hello to you too sis,” I responded in a voice dripping heavily with sarcasm. “I’m here to set the record straight, then after that, if you don’t want me here, I’ll leave.” She glared at me and then pouted a bit. “Okay, let’s hear it.”
Whisper chose that moment to intervene, “Katarina, your manners. I know what he has in mind and you have to trust your brother. If for no other reason than for me.” I thought that Kat was going to go to balling right then and there but she kept the emotions in check. “Let’s all go inside and talk about this, away from prying eyes and ears.” We went in and were greeted by Rene, Kim, and various others. It was all smiles and handshakes as we came through the school to her office. I spotted Cyrus, and he nodded at me and I returned the respect offered. Once in her office, we all sat down. I began the explanation, “We talked about this briefly in Greece, Kat, I suspect that you don’t trust me right now. I also know that there are people who have recently hurt you on an emotional level.” She stared straight ahead, not really even moving. “I promise you, Whisper would know if I was being dishonest about this. She would have already come to deal with me or sent others, don’t you agree?”
She finally looked over at me, tears in her eyes, “Why didn’t you tell anyone before accepting that deal?” I nodded, “Fair question, the answer is not cloaked in deception Kat, it’s as simple as I needed the surprise factor. I needed your reaction to be genuine and real. Just to make sure that they believe that I’m being legit.” She nodded along with my explanation then looked at Whisper who nodded to her. “So, I may have overreacted.” I cut her off, “No, you reacted perfectly my dear, sweet sister in arms and heart. You helped me sell this deception to them.” My demenor then changes, “Now they will discover what it’s like to step into a bear trap. I won’t allow anyone to screw with my family.”
She threw her arms around my neck and cried quietly. Whisper nodded her approval as I comforted my baby sister. I whispered the tenants of our family. Putting the emphasis on Unapologetic Violence. Soon thereafter things were back as they should be.
Fade.
{Unnamed Studio - “An introduction for some and a reminder for others”}
Dressed in street clothes, jeans, sleeveless shirt, black jump boots, skull cap, and sunglasses. Standing in front of a Level Up banner, getting ready to start my promo, and all of a sudden, the “Chronic” Chris Page Enterprises logo drops down in front of it. I turn and look at the change and I smile.
Centurion, Dionysus, Paul Freedom, Eli Goode & Brody Adams. They don’t believe that I’ll make a difference, I already have. My name in your mouth is all the proof anyone should need to have.
I lower my head for a moment as if studying my boots and then look back up to address Centurion first.
Centurion; the man, the myth, and the legend. Hung around to get that pound of flesh, did ya? I know that feeling, it’s one of the reasons I’m back after what I consider to be a good showing at The Last of Us Part 2. Even if I do say so myself, and yes I’ll pat myself on the back for entering in the first position and not being eliminated until the final five. You have a well-deserved reputation for getting things done inside the ring. A multi-time world champion and revered in many circles. I give you this respect because it’s owed, and you’ve earned it. Your pound of flesh will have to wait. I’m collecting mine, then maybe you’ll be able to get yours.
I give an easy-going smile after making that statement. Then I shake my head, indicating that is not what’s going to happen.
No big man, no soup for you, go to the back of the line. Now, granted if you two are first out of the gate, I can’t prevent you from punishing him, but as we know, the match doesn’t even become entertaining until everyone is in the match. By entertaining, I mean a cluster fuck. It’s so very chaotic, I’ll even throw out the appropriate cliche. Keep your head on a swivel old man. I’ve seen it far too many times when a supposed teammate becomes the bane of your existence. Not that I think that any of your team is smart enough or brave enough to do that to you. I hope you don’t owe a pound of flesh to anyone on your team. No old bad feelings, or overdue receipts? Keep your eye on Eli, he’s known for that shit.
I smirk at the camera, not so much for what I said but the thought behind it.
Speaking of, how the hell are ya, Eli? This young man and I go back a ways. Don’t we kiddo? He was supposed to be the next big thing in Carnage Wrestling, the understudy of Jack Michaels. I faced him on many occasions there. He does own a victory over me but that was because we got disqualified. After the tournament at Last of Us Part 2, he tried to reach out. Said something about how we probably didn’t care about him and such. Same old song and dance, kid. I’m not sure if you were trying to reconnect or if your psyche is still riddled with guilt over things that don’t matter. If it matters at all, which it shouldn’t, we do still care about you. You’ve always been a good hand in the ring, and a safe person in the ring. What I’m trying to say is that I respect your work ethic. The last thing you should even consider is taking this personally. This is nothing more than a payday to me. But you probably will, since you consider this to be your home, and that’s fine.
I flash a quick smile and a wink.
Dionysus, the often misunderstood, respected, and loved star of several companies. The man who said that my teaming with the Game Changers won’t help them at all. That’s right, they offered me all this money because I have no reputation in the industry, no accolades to speak of, and zero, and I mean zero reputation for shutting up assholes. Other than that, I have no ill will towards you personally. However, there is this issue of you think I won’t have any impact on this match. At least while you were sitting behind a keyboard on Twitter that is. I mean, you said that not knowing anything about me, chief. I’ve been doing this far too long to take that as anything but disrespect. All because I chose a payday, is that about right? I hope so because if it is, I’m going to enjoy shutting you up. If not, I’ll buy you a beer afterward and we can discuss all that shit like gentlemen. I mean, that is, if either of us can still hold a glass when this is over.
Laughing at my own joke, I hold up a hand indicating I need a second.
Well, if that wasn’t funny enough for you, there’s always Brody Adams right? I mean this guy is hilarious. He has become the king of comedy and satire here in Level Up. That beard though, dude, that needs work. I mean, I recognize that not everyone can have a glorious beard like mine, but god damn, son, put in some effort. In all seriousness though, you can’t possibly expect to be anything else other than a shield for Centurion, can you? Looks like you may not get along so well with them. Mine doesn’t have to be the only payday around here if you are picking up what I’m throwing down. What I’m throwing down is C notes my man. Think it over.
Pretending to hold a phone with my thumb and pinky extended, I mouth the words “Call Me, Maybe”
Oh, I saved the best for last, no doubt about that. Paul Freedom. The well-intending young man that got me eliminated from the battle royal, wasn’t really a battle royal. Sorry, I digressed a little. Paul, before you get flustered, yes, that’s exactly what you’re supposed to do. You are supposed to eliminate people or cause them to be eliminated. Technically you did nothing wrong, so I extend a tip of my cap to you. However, next time you might want to choose your targets a bit more wisely. You already felt my wrath after you eliminated my wife. No, I did not overreact. That will pale in comparison to this match. There are no safe places, no outside the ring to run to. I know you are still early in your career and are trying to learn as much as you can. This environment is not conducive to longevity. These are the types of matches that cut decades off your career. I’m not trying to scare you kid, I’m being honest with you. Just as I did with my nephew when he was joining the Navy. I told him the truth about a great many things. Here’s me dropping some knowledge on ya. This is one of the most dangerous matches you will ever endure. You will get hurt, don’t take my word for it, talk to the vets on your own team. You’ve really got to love the fight to go through with something like this.
I shake my head in dismay or disgust, I’m not even sure which it is.
Now for the fun part, my team.
I smile that predatory smile that I’m known for.
THE Game Changers.
I begin applauding them, giving them genuine applause, hoping that when they watch this it’s believable.
Larry Tact, EA Blizzard, ISAAC, Drake Wilcox, and yours truly.
I continue to smile and nod to the camera.
That’s it, what else is there to say really? They’re fucked, simple as that.
I fake leaving the set but then turn around laughing, waving it off.
I’m kidding, not really, but yeah let’s talk about this team of elite stars. EA Blizzard for starters. What can I say about EA that isn’t obvious, he’s a big fucker who is well known and respected in our industry. Not necessarily for his attitude but for all the things he’s accomplished. Reminds me of me actually and what is not to love about that?
hope I’m not laying it on too thick I think to myself. I give them the cheap theatric smile.
The man is an absolute monster in the ring. Being trapped inside a cage with that dude will be zero fun for y’all. Highly intelligent and more than capable of overwhelming more than one enemy at a time. Getting nervous yet? Probably too late for that considering the contract is signed. Of course, I guess you boys could all fake injuries. No? Foolish.
I smirk at the camera.
The next one should help convince you, just saying. Issac is a man who believes himself to be a prophet. Faith is a powerful thing kid. I’ve seen him go, and I’m certainly not going to question what he believes, and trust me when I say I’m glad we are on the same side. That dude can straight fuck you up. Hey, faking those injuries are still viable. No? Okay, then let’s move on shall we.
I maintain my smile for dramatic effect if nothing else.
Drake Wilcox, the man who saved Isaac from his demons, helped him to find God. This guy is pure money, and a miracle worker, I have to say. This is one of the men in our sport that has it all figured out. I’m impressed, to say the least.
I maintain the smile and think to myself, this better fucking work
Larry fucking Tact! He is the man that pays the bills. He’s the guy that you are all so worried about gaining power and turning this joint upside down. Amiright? I know I am and why to shun a man who is so superior intellectually, compared to the rest of you. It makes no sense to me on a professional or personal level. I mean for me, I was sold just because he hates Knox and Johnny Shitmaker, that’s something to appreciate right there. Larry, I applaud you for putting together such a great team. We both know why I’m here and why I accepted the money for this match. The opportunity to put boots to asses is just too good the pass up. Especially with this bunch of uncultured, ill mannered fucks. For that, I thank you.
I set my jaw as I go into the last piece.
I saved the best for last. My favorite subject and topic of conversation.
Me.
I’ve been called many things in my life and I’m sure there will be some new ones that come from this match. What I bring to this match is something I do better than anything. I show up, wreck shit, and leave. I’m paid to be that guy, and I love my work. I’m not some jerk off that just wandered through the doors from wrestling school. I’m that guy that gives you nightmares. I didn’t earn the moniker “The One Man Wrecking Crew” from being nice and polite to people. I destroy people, I crush their fucking dreams. I don’t do it because I have to, I do it because I love it. I am the harbinger of doom, you knew you were fucked the moment I walked through the doors.
“Anger and just rebuke, and judgment given,
That brought into this world a world of woe,
Sin and her shadow Death, and Misery,
Death's harbinger.”
-John Milton
{River Camp - Sabine River - “The Game”}
[off-camera]
Heavy and steady rain had fallen overnight. Everything was soaked and the river had begun to rise, which meant that the water moccasins would be running and making fishing almost impossible. “Dad, why do you enjoy shooting these things so much?” The question from my now twenty year old daughter. It amused me no doubt about that. I had explained this to my kids so many times, that the answer was almost auto-pilot. “Well Princess, it’s like this. A water moccasin is like the bull shark of the snake world. They are indiscriminate in who they attack. Virtually everything is their enemy.” I told her this as we stood on the bank of the river. It was just starting to warm up, and it didn’t take long until I started seeing the heads of these things bobbling up and down in the water. “Won't be long before they start heading for us, you ready?” She nodded indicating that she was.
Within sixty seconds of saying that a group of three started heading toward us. I unholstered the nineteen-eleven A and plucked the first one. When the bullet struck its head, it went rigid like a stick and flipped up out of the water. My daughter Julez, fired the next shot with her Smith and wesson M&P shield with the same result. I then caught the last one about six feet from shore. “It can be the same with people too,” I said nonchalantly. A quick snap of her head with an incredulous look, “Da hell?” I laughed as we picked off a couple of more snakes that were inbound. “Well, there are people that are like water moccasins and bull sharks,” I began. With no response from her, I continued. “People in my industry are especially that way. Take Larry Tact and his Game Changers.” She made a face as she shot another one. “That guy is a scum bag!” She declared without reservation or hesitation. So much like her mother, plus she wasn’t wrong. Tact was a real bastard no doubt about that. “To him, it’s all a game. He doesn’t care about those he hurts.” She glared at me as I shot another snake. “Then why take his money to help him?”
I chuckled, “I’ll ask you the same question I asked your Aunt Kat, when you are trying to take care of a den of badgers, how do you accomplish that?” She laughed as she squeezed off another round. “You send the dogs into their den, everyone knows that. How does this relate to you?” I laughed again, “Whoof”. Her eyes went wide with delight. We needed to reload so we backtracked to the truck, near our cabin. “So, you’re going to help her get some kind of revenge?” I smiled at her, “The only reason I’m taking his blood money is to help Kat, yes.” Many people over the years have forgotten that I play the game too. I’m very good at it and can move around without attracting too much attention. You’ve just got to be smarter than the other guy. In this case that wouldn’t take much. Regardless of how close they watched me, this would not end well for them. The same could be said for me to be honest about it, I am a realist after all. “Do you have a contingency for things going south?” I smiled at my smart girl, “Even my contingencies have contingencies. You know that.” She laughed again and we finished reloading.
“Well, ready for round two with these little bastards?” She giggled, “Yes sir.” So we made our way back down the bank for the continued war with the snakes. I had my own method for dealing with the human variety, although I hoped it wouldn’t mean shooting one of them. If it did, it did, I’d feel bad about it for a minute but that was really about all the time I’d have for remorse anymore.
Fade.
{Hell’s Gate - Grand Junction CO - “Family”}
I sat on the tailgate of my truck in front of the school looking up and down the main drag. “There’s not a damn thing grand about grand junction,” I mutter to myself. I knew Kat would be along shortly and we had a meeting with Whisper about what I had done. Neither of the ladies was happy about what I’d done. It was time to make them see reason or at least try to convince them that I knew what I was doing. I lit a cigarette and sat there, focussing on my connection to Whisper to let her know I was here. “Kat will be along shortly,” she said from the top of the stairs. I gave her a thumbs up in response. “When are you going to quit smoking, Mac, you know that shit is gonna kill you.” I chuckled, “Yes ma’am if an angry man doesn’t do that in a ring first.” I heard her laugh behind me and figured there was a head shake as well, I knew the woman loved me but she also thought at times that I was a fool. “Specifically in times like these, MacIntyre.”
“I love you too, Mother of Archangels,” I said in an even tone but one that translated warmth and appreciation. I was her Harbinger of Doom, and that was a title that I relished, it fit me so well. I had only been a part of this family for a short time but it felt like I had known them my entire life. We all had that kind of bond. Kat and I were as close as any brother and sister who ever lived. The attack by the game changers on her in order to psychologically impact Raab was one of the things that made my blood run cold. Kat pulled into the parking lot and when she saw me she scowled at me. She got out of the car and didn’t quite ignore me but it was close to that. “Why are you here?” She said it in a cold and callous way, I was glad she was pissed, now if she could maintain that anger and make it productive. “Oh, hello to you too sis,” I responded in a voice dripping heavily with sarcasm. “I’m here to set the record straight, then after that, if you don’t want me here, I’ll leave.” She glared at me and then pouted a bit. “Okay, let’s hear it.”
Whisper chose that moment to intervene, “Katarina, your manners. I know what he has in mind and you have to trust your brother. If for no other reason than for me.” I thought that Kat was going to go to balling right then and there but she kept the emotions in check. “Let’s all go inside and talk about this, away from prying eyes and ears.” We went in and were greeted by Rene, Kim, and various others. It was all smiles and handshakes as we came through the school to her office. I spotted Cyrus, and he nodded at me and I returned the respect offered. Once in her office, we all sat down. I began the explanation, “We talked about this briefly in Greece, Kat, I suspect that you don’t trust me right now. I also know that there are people who have recently hurt you on an emotional level.” She stared straight ahead, not really even moving. “I promise you, Whisper would know if I was being dishonest about this. She would have already come to deal with me or sent others, don’t you agree?”
She finally looked over at me, tears in her eyes, “Why didn’t you tell anyone before accepting that deal?” I nodded, “Fair question, the answer is not cloaked in deception Kat, it’s as simple as I needed the surprise factor. I needed your reaction to be genuine and real. Just to make sure that they believe that I’m being legit.” She nodded along with my explanation then looked at Whisper who nodded to her. “So, I may have overreacted.” I cut her off, “No, you reacted perfectly my dear, sweet sister in arms and heart. You helped me sell this deception to them.” My demenor then changes, “Now they will discover what it’s like to step into a bear trap. I won’t allow anyone to screw with my family.”
She threw her arms around my neck and cried quietly. Whisper nodded her approval as I comforted my baby sister. I whispered the tenants of our family. Putting the emphasis on Unapologetic Violence. Soon thereafter things were back as they should be.
Fade.
{Unnamed Studio - “An introduction for some and a reminder for others”}
Dressed in street clothes, jeans, sleeveless shirt, black jump boots, skull cap, and sunglasses. Standing in front of a Level Up banner, getting ready to start my promo, and all of a sudden, the “Chronic” Chris Page Enterprises logo drops down in front of it. I turn and look at the change and I smile.
Centurion, Dionysus, Paul Freedom, Eli Goode & Brody Adams. They don’t believe that I’ll make a difference, I already have. My name in your mouth is all the proof anyone should need to have.
I lower my head for a moment as if studying my boots and then look back up to address Centurion first.
Centurion; the man, the myth, and the legend. Hung around to get that pound of flesh, did ya? I know that feeling, it’s one of the reasons I’m back after what I consider to be a good showing at The Last of Us Part 2. Even if I do say so myself, and yes I’ll pat myself on the back for entering in the first position and not being eliminated until the final five. You have a well-deserved reputation for getting things done inside the ring. A multi-time world champion and revered in many circles. I give you this respect because it’s owed, and you’ve earned it. Your pound of flesh will have to wait. I’m collecting mine, then maybe you’ll be able to get yours.
I give an easy-going smile after making that statement. Then I shake my head, indicating that is not what’s going to happen.
No big man, no soup for you, go to the back of the line. Now, granted if you two are first out of the gate, I can’t prevent you from punishing him, but as we know, the match doesn’t even become entertaining until everyone is in the match. By entertaining, I mean a cluster fuck. It’s so very chaotic, I’ll even throw out the appropriate cliche. Keep your head on a swivel old man. I’ve seen it far too many times when a supposed teammate becomes the bane of your existence. Not that I think that any of your team is smart enough or brave enough to do that to you. I hope you don’t owe a pound of flesh to anyone on your team. No old bad feelings, or overdue receipts? Keep your eye on Eli, he’s known for that shit.
I smirk at the camera, not so much for what I said but the thought behind it.
Speaking of, how the hell are ya, Eli? This young man and I go back a ways. Don’t we kiddo? He was supposed to be the next big thing in Carnage Wrestling, the understudy of Jack Michaels. I faced him on many occasions there. He does own a victory over me but that was because we got disqualified. After the tournament at Last of Us Part 2, he tried to reach out. Said something about how we probably didn’t care about him and such. Same old song and dance, kid. I’m not sure if you were trying to reconnect or if your psyche is still riddled with guilt over things that don’t matter. If it matters at all, which it shouldn’t, we do still care about you. You’ve always been a good hand in the ring, and a safe person in the ring. What I’m trying to say is that I respect your work ethic. The last thing you should even consider is taking this personally. This is nothing more than a payday to me. But you probably will, since you consider this to be your home, and that’s fine.
I flash a quick smile and a wink.
Dionysus, the often misunderstood, respected, and loved star of several companies. The man who said that my teaming with the Game Changers won’t help them at all. That’s right, they offered me all this money because I have no reputation in the industry, no accolades to speak of, and zero, and I mean zero reputation for shutting up assholes. Other than that, I have no ill will towards you personally. However, there is this issue of you think I won’t have any impact on this match. At least while you were sitting behind a keyboard on Twitter that is. I mean, you said that not knowing anything about me, chief. I’ve been doing this far too long to take that as anything but disrespect. All because I chose a payday, is that about right? I hope so because if it is, I’m going to enjoy shutting you up. If not, I’ll buy you a beer afterward and we can discuss all that shit like gentlemen. I mean, that is, if either of us can still hold a glass when this is over.
Laughing at my own joke, I hold up a hand indicating I need a second.
Well, if that wasn’t funny enough for you, there’s always Brody Adams right? I mean this guy is hilarious. He has become the king of comedy and satire here in Level Up. That beard though, dude, that needs work. I mean, I recognize that not everyone can have a glorious beard like mine, but god damn, son, put in some effort. In all seriousness though, you can’t possibly expect to be anything else other than a shield for Centurion, can you? Looks like you may not get along so well with them. Mine doesn’t have to be the only payday around here if you are picking up what I’m throwing down. What I’m throwing down is C notes my man. Think it over.
Pretending to hold a phone with my thumb and pinky extended, I mouth the words “Call Me, Maybe”
Oh, I saved the best for last, no doubt about that. Paul Freedom. The well-intending young man that got me eliminated from the battle royal, wasn’t really a battle royal. Sorry, I digressed a little. Paul, before you get flustered, yes, that’s exactly what you’re supposed to do. You are supposed to eliminate people or cause them to be eliminated. Technically you did nothing wrong, so I extend a tip of my cap to you. However, next time you might want to choose your targets a bit more wisely. You already felt my wrath after you eliminated my wife. No, I did not overreact. That will pale in comparison to this match. There are no safe places, no outside the ring to run to. I know you are still early in your career and are trying to learn as much as you can. This environment is not conducive to longevity. These are the types of matches that cut decades off your career. I’m not trying to scare you kid, I’m being honest with you. Just as I did with my nephew when he was joining the Navy. I told him the truth about a great many things. Here’s me dropping some knowledge on ya. This is one of the most dangerous matches you will ever endure. You will get hurt, don’t take my word for it, talk to the vets on your own team. You’ve really got to love the fight to go through with something like this.
I shake my head in dismay or disgust, I’m not even sure which it is.
Now for the fun part, my team.
I smile that predatory smile that I’m known for.
THE Game Changers.
I begin applauding them, giving them genuine applause, hoping that when they watch this it’s believable.
Larry Tact, EA Blizzard, ISAAC, Drake Wilcox, and yours truly.
I continue to smile and nod to the camera.
That’s it, what else is there to say really? They’re fucked, simple as that.
I fake leaving the set but then turn around laughing, waving it off.
I’m kidding, not really, but yeah let’s talk about this team of elite stars. EA Blizzard for starters. What can I say about EA that isn’t obvious, he’s a big fucker who is well known and respected in our industry. Not necessarily for his attitude but for all the things he’s accomplished. Reminds me of me actually and what is not to love about that?
hope I’m not laying it on too thick I think to myself. I give them the cheap theatric smile.
The man is an absolute monster in the ring. Being trapped inside a cage with that dude will be zero fun for y’all. Highly intelligent and more than capable of overwhelming more than one enemy at a time. Getting nervous yet? Probably too late for that considering the contract is signed. Of course, I guess you boys could all fake injuries. No? Foolish.
I smirk at the camera.
The next one should help convince you, just saying. Issac is a man who believes himself to be a prophet. Faith is a powerful thing kid. I’ve seen him go, and I’m certainly not going to question what he believes, and trust me when I say I’m glad we are on the same side. That dude can straight fuck you up. Hey, faking those injuries are still viable. No? Okay, then let’s move on shall we.
I maintain my smile for dramatic effect if nothing else.
Drake Wilcox, the man who saved Isaac from his demons, helped him to find God. This guy is pure money, and a miracle worker, I have to say. This is one of the men in our sport that has it all figured out. I’m impressed, to say the least.
I maintain the smile and think to myself, this better fucking work
Larry fucking Tact! He is the man that pays the bills. He’s the guy that you are all so worried about gaining power and turning this joint upside down. Amiright? I know I am and why to shun a man who is so superior intellectually, compared to the rest of you. It makes no sense to me on a professional or personal level. I mean for me, I was sold just because he hates Knox and Johnny Shitmaker, that’s something to appreciate right there. Larry, I applaud you for putting together such a great team. We both know why I’m here and why I accepted the money for this match. The opportunity to put boots to asses is just too good the pass up. Especially with this bunch of uncultured, ill mannered fucks. For that, I thank you.
I set my jaw as I go into the last piece.
I saved the best for last. My favorite subject and topic of conversation.
Me.
I’ve been called many things in my life and I’m sure there will be some new ones that come from this match. What I bring to this match is something I do better than anything. I show up, wreck shit, and leave. I’m paid to be that guy, and I love my work. I’m not some jerk off that just wandered through the doors from wrestling school. I’m that guy that gives you nightmares. I didn’t earn the moniker “The One Man Wrecking Crew” from being nice and polite to people. I destroy people, I crush their fucking dreams. I don’t do it because I have to, I do it because I love it. I am the harbinger of doom, you knew you were fucked the moment I walked through the doors.
