Post by Mr.Ego on Dec 10, 2016 1:59:20 GMT -5
Friday, December 9th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
Vain stands in the foyer here at Casa del Roberts, a heartbroken smile resting upon his face. Two months ago - when he was at his lowest - he had been given refuge here by the World Champion. When he had nowhere left to turn, it was 'The Blessed One' that had extended the olive-branch of courtesy, allowing Vain to stay with him while Wallace Estates was scheduled to be completely renovated, to the point where Vain had hoped that memory of the horrors that had transpired would soon ease themselves from his memory.
Who would have guessed that the two men with arguably the two biggest egos in this industry would get along well enough for that to actually work, but somehow it did. Vain already respected Roberts for everything that he had done in this industry, but during the first month, a bond began to grow between the two men. A friendship began to blossom. A brotherhood began to be defined.
It was quite a blow to Vain when Roberts had announced that he was going to be living in a hotel until after Horizons. With Vain having become the number-one contender to Roberts' title, he understood that the two men each needed their space during the lead-up to their epic third encounter, but knowing that fact and liking that fact are two entirely different things. Yet, still, he respected Travis' decision. So much so, that he sent his own personal harem with 'The Headliner', so that he would be completely comfortable while getting accustomed to his new surroundings. There was only one real downside to that decision, and it was something that just dawned on him as he stared out at the luxury of Casa del Roberts…
Vain hadn't had a grape in weeks.
Vain doesn't hear Simon come inside, and he nearly jumps out of his custom-made pearl white Armani suit when Simon clasps him on the shoulder.
"Sweet butter crumpets! You have got to stop sneaking up on me like that, Simon. Unless you prefer to watch me suffer a cardiac episode."
Simon Wellington looks at him in confusion for a moment, before speaking.
"That is - literally - the only time I have ever 'snuck' up on you, Alan. Ever."
"Well it was one time too many then, Mr. Wellington."
Vain returns to gazing out at the inner workings of the house in silence, while Simon stands there checking his watch.
"I hate to rush you Alan, but you are aware that we have a plane to catch later in the afternoon. And considering we still have to make a stop, I feel it's best if we get going relatively soon."
"I know…I know. I just need a moment, Simon. There were many great times that were had in this humble abode. Memories that will last a lifetime, my friend."
"Memories to last a lifetime? In two months' time, Alan? Seriously?"
Vain suddenly turns around, a look of annoyance forming on his face.
"It isn't the length of time, Simon. It's what you do with it!"
Simon goes to speak but stops, obviously thinking of what Vain has just said.
"And yes, 'The Vain One' is well aware that you have probably been told that on more than one occasion, Simon. In those cases, they lied. Poor bastard."
"Quite juvenile, if you don't mind my saying so, Alan."
Vain dismisses him with a wave of the hand.
"Travis could have turned me away when I had nowhere else to go, Simon. The fact that he took me in and allowed me to make his home, my home, means more than you could ever understand."
"Is that why we were shopping for pretty much the entire day earlier this week? So that you could show your appreciation?"
"Yes, actually it was, Simon. And you screwed everything all up. For Travis' sake, at least one of us is competent. Like your girlfriends from high school, I was able to overcome your various shortcomings, Simon."
"Oh goodie, it's Juvenile Junction time again. Just meet me in the car once you've finished on the two month nostalgia tour, alright? We have things to do."
Simon turns and disappears out the door, as Vain rolls his eyes.
"He's such a drama queen, my Christ."
~-------------------------------------------45 Minutes Later-------------------------------------------~
The door opens, and Vain finds himself face-to-face with harem-member Cindy. He smiles at her.
"Cindy, my dear, how have you been? Is Mr. Roberts in on this fine day?"
At the sound of his name, Roberts appears from around the corner. Confused, he walks over, as Cindy disappears into the bedroom.
Roberts: Alan, I wasn't expecting to you see you until Monday. Is anything wrong?"
"Quite the contrary, dear Travis. I merely am stopping by for two reasons. To say thank you, and to give you this."
Vain hands Travis a medium-sized boxed, wrapped completely in light pink wrapping paper, complete with a golden bow. As Travis looks down at the gift, Vain speaks.
"I also wanted to let you know that I have gathered all of my belongings, and have vacated Casa del Roberts. Go home, Travis, and get a good night's sleep."
Travis looks at him in a confused manner.
Roberts: Alan, you know you can stay there as long as you wish. I just felt that with our upcoming match, it'd be best if we weren't both there."
"I completely understand, Travis, and I appreciate everything that you have done for me in recent months. It's more than most would have done, that much I can assure you. You not only gave me a place to stay, but you gave me hope. Hope that someone like me can have actual friends, even when slated to face one another for the biggest prize in the business. For that I could never fully repay you, but I hope what you have in your hand is at least a good start."
Travis looks back down at the gift, as Vain smiles.
Monday, December 5th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
"Surely, you can't be serious?"
Simon stares at Vain with a flabbergasted look upon his face, as Vain turns towards him, 'seriousness' all over his face.
"Oh, I am deadly serious. And don't call me Shirley."
Vain doesn't allow Simon the time to respond, instead deciding to walk ahead of 'The Scholar', as he looks around at the various stores that surround him. Simon breaks into a trot to catch up.
"Look Alan, I know that you feel that you owe Travis Roberts for allowing you into his home… and I know that you've been working on 'turning over a new leaf' over the last six months to a year. But are we seriously going to do this?"
"No need to be a Grinch, Mr. Wellington. Why will your heart not grow three sizes on this day? Will the true meaning of Christmas not come through, thus disallowing 'The Scholar' to find the strength of ten Grinches, plus two?"
Simon doesn't respond, instead deciding to tag along in silence, as Vain begins going into various stores. After twenty minutes or so of finding nothing, Simon decides that it will be up to him to end this undertaking.
"Ok, Alan, you win. If you are wanting to find the perfect gift for Travis Roberts, to show your appreciation for him allowing you to stay at Casa del Roberts, then I will do my best to help with that."
"I knew you had it in you, Mr. Grinch! Come… let's shop!"
Over the next few hours, Simon spots numerous items that he feels could act as a show of gratitude for Mr. Roberts' kind act. They all end in the same manner.
~
"Now this is tasteful, and completely understated. I think it would make a fine addition to Mr. Roberts' home."
"A doormat, Simon? Really? Of all the items that we have perused through over the course of this day, you feel that a doormat is the best way for Vain to say 'thank you', for all that Travis has done for me?"
"Well, it seems rather welcoming, Alan."
"It says 'Welcome' on it, Simon. Nothing more, and nothing less. Plus… it's a doormat. A doormat, Simon!"
"Fine, Alan… I'll put it back."
"No, no… I'll get it. It would make a perfect gift for Dave Rydell."
~
"Now this is a beautiful work of art, Alan. And I know that you would agree, because you own something similar back in Miami. This would be the perfect gift."
"It is, indeed, a beautiful vanity dresser and mirror set. However, I do not feel it is something that would properly convey my feelings towards 'The Blessed One'. He is not a man that is in need of another vanity, for the one he has is of the finest of qualities. It's quite stunning, if I must say."
"Quite the shame that we will not be purchasing it though. It is of great quality."
"I never said I would not be purchasing it, Simon. I am almost certain that it would do Holden Orson a world of good. He could spend many a day staring into his own reflection, in hopes that he can catch a glimpse of the man that he used to be, so that he can stop being nothing more than a caricature of himself with The Engine."
~
"I know this isn't your forte, Alan… but this would make a splendid gift to act as a 'thank you'."
Vain steps forward to further investigate this newest finding of Simon's. After a few moments, he sighs.
"Johnnie Walker Blue Label King George V Edition? Hmm, while I am not one to partake in imbibing the drink very often, I do know a quality beverage when I see it. The main issue being, however, is that while Travis does indulge from time to time, alcohol doesn't seem to be his vice. I mean, it does say blue label, Simon. Not green."
"I'm sure they have a green label somewhere…"
Vain laughs loudly, causing numerous people around him to turn and look. The looks turn to stares, once his fellow shoppers realize who he is. In some case, the stares turn to drools. Typical day at the office for 'Yours Truly'.
"While I am sure there is a green label somewhere, keep a hold of the King George Edition. I know someone that will be most appreciative of it."
"Yes, but even though you have been to his house in the past, you don't particularly care for Chaos, Alan. Why would you gift him something like this?"
"Not Chaos, you ignoramus. Killian. Jesus…"
~
As the sun sets on this beautiful day, Simon and Alan are shown seated on a bench. Both look worse for the wear, and completely weary.
"So what now, Alan?"
Vain sighs, as he rises to his feet.
"Well it seems that I still have some thinking to do as to what will make the perfect gift to show my appreciation for Travis Roberts. And you? You have gifts to wrap, and cards to buy."
With that, Vain turns and walks away, leaving Simon alone to deal with the gifts that have been purchased.
"How am I going to get this stuff home? You're my ride…"
Vain continues walking, choosing not to hear his advocate.
Wednesday, December 7th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
Rolling over onto his left side, a slight smile forms on the face of 'Vain' Alan Wallace, as he settles in for a good night's sleep here in Casa del Roberts. It had been a long few days of shopping for what Vain wanted to be the perfect gift, and though he had still yet to settle on what that gift would be, deep down he knew that it was only a matter of time before he was able to truly show his appreciation for all that had been done for him.
And that thought allowed him to sleep easier than he had in a long time. Until it happened…
CLANK!!!
Vain awakes with a start, rubbing at his eyes, as he attempts to see out into the darkness.
"What in blue blazes?!"
Hearing nothing, he lies back down, attempting to get settled in the position he had been in before being awakened.
"That's weird… my dreams usually involve the clanging of headboards. Not the clanking of, well, whatever that was."
CLANK!!! CLANK!!!
Vain sits completely upright this time, a mixture of confusion and anger setting in.
"I don't like my dreams, like Chaos likes his porn. Interactive is not something I'm extremely fond of when it comes to dreams."
"That's because it wasn’t a dream, Alan Wallace."
The voice echoed eerily through the bedroom, causing Vain's arms to break out into goosebumps. He struggled to get his eyes to adjust to the darkness, to see what female voice was permeating his room in such a way. When he was finally able to focus in, he sat completely rigid, small beads of sweat beginning to form on his forehead. As she wafts closer, he somehow manages to find the strength to speak.
"Candi? Can it be? Surely it cannot… you can't be. Can you? Are you…are you…"
"Dead? Am I dead, Alan? No, far from it actually. Though, as far as you are concerned, I very well might as well be."
"Now that isn't fair, Candi. I don't wish you ill will… I just don't care if you have good fortunes. There is a difference, you know."
"Yes, that I do know, Alan. Yet, how you feel about me… is how the wrestling industry will feel about you one day. If you don't change your ways, that is…"
"I've grown bored of these theatrics, Candi. Either climb into bed and get what you have been longing for since I left you at the altar, or be gone, and allow me to get some sleep."
"You are a legend in your own mind, Alan Wallace. That is far from the reason why I am here tonight."
Vain is beginning to grow irritated now, as the look on his face can attest.
"Then why are you here, Celeste?"
Her chuckle sends shivers up his spine.
"That is quite simple, Alan Wallace. I am the Ghost of Horizons' Past."
She motions for him to follow, as she drifts effortlessly towards the doorway. Try as he might, he is unable to fight the urge to arise from his bed and follow behind. As he walks out into what should be the hallway, he is immediately transferred to the 2013 edition of Horizons, at the end of the Tournamental match that saw him best that dastardly Klaus vonKnorre, and become the Cross-Hemisphere Champion.
"Simply a beautiful display, all throughout that match. I was able to best the Kraut in his own match. And I did so without a hair out of place, I might add."
"And a few months later, there was another incident where your performed without a hair out of place, isn't that right, Alan Wallace?"
The scene immediately transforms to ringside of the April 7th, 2014 edition of Synergy. The current Vain finds himself standing amongst the masses at ringside, directly behind his co-members of the Puppet Masters, who are seated at ringside. He looks up and sees the aftermath of what he had done that night, and he watches as Candi breaks down into tears inside the ring. As he watches in amusement, the Ghost of Horizons' Past moves beside him.
"You were right… I got through this night without a hair out of place, too. Beautiful, is it not?"
The look on her face turns to pure malice, as she begins moving towards Vain with vigor. Instinctively, he begins backpedaling, as fire burns in her eyes.
"That's always been your problem, Alan Wallace. Everything is one big joke… you never take anyone or anything seriously enough. You will do anything that you can for cheap laughs, to hurt people… and you never give anything of yourself in the process. You have alienated anyone and everyone that you have come across, Alan Wallace, and because you have refused to have one genuine interaction with another person in your entire life, you are going to die a lonely, bitter man."
Tears fill his eyes as he continues to back away.
"You're right, I have been a complete asshole over the years. This, I cannot deny… but I've changed. Honestly, I have changed… and I have gained a few true friendships. I've given of myself, I swear…"
She continues moving towards him, as he continues attempting to get away from her…
CLANK!!! CLANK!!! CLANK!!!
He sits up with a fright, sweat pouring from his brow, and tears streaming from his eyes. He wipes at them dramatically, before exhaling in relief.
"Thank Christ… just a dream. That's the last time I eat Del Taco after eight."
"Oh, but it wasn't a dream, Alan Wallace. In any way, shape, or form."
A familiar man stares down at Vain, and though he is glowing and somewhat transparent, Vain seems to recognize him.
"For I am the Ghost of Horizons' Present."
"No… you are Simon Wellington. Stop fucking around, and get out of my room. I've already had a rough night sleeping. The last thing I need is to hear your heavy breathing while I get my beauty sleep."
"No, Alan Wallace… I am the Ghost of Christmas Present. And we have much to see. Quickly… grab onto my robe. We cannot be late!"
"Simon… that's my robe."
"Hurry! We mustn't be late!"
Instinctively, Vain grabs a hold of the robe that the Ghost of Horizons' Present is wearing, and in the blink of an eye, they are looking in the window of a run-down house. It is completely empty, and Vain is confused as he looks in the window. Turning towards what looks like Simon, he speaks.
"Look, Simon… I know that you don't have much else going for you in life, but instead of staring into an empty house, I could be getting my beauty sleep. I have a busy day tomorrow."
"For starters, you twit, I am not this Simon of which you speak. Secondly, there is a very good reason why we are here right now. You see, this is what you will see, no matter what happens during your match against Travis Roberts on Monday night. Whether you once again become the UGWC Heavyweight Champion of the World, or you are bested - yet again - by the man known as 'The Blessed One', this will be what you have in store for yourself, Alan Wallace. A night of sheer ecstasy, or a night of morbid despair, spent entirely alone, and void of any type of human interaction. No matter what happens, there will be no harem… there will be no Killian King… there will be no Travis Roberts… and there will be no Simon Wellington, because quite frankly, I can only take so much of you at one time, Alan."
"But I thought you were the Ghost of Horizons' Present, and not Simon 'The Scholar' Wellington?"
"Shut up, Alan, and focus. What you see before you is what you have become. You've never shown true appreciation for anyone in your life, and complete and utter loneliness is what will be the direct result of that. No matter how much you try to make amends now, everyone sees through you, Alan. You have never done anything for anyone, without it being something that benefits yourself. And that is the cold, hard, truth of the matter… no matter how much you now claim otherwise."
"You don't understand, what Killian and I have… what Travis and I now have… it's real, and it's true. You've gotta believe me, spirit!"
Vain grabs a hold of the robe and begins shaking the man wearing it. In a flash, the robe comes off, and completely engulfs 'The Vain One'. He attempts to fight his way out of it, and when he finally does, he is back in his room once more. He begins to shake, as the events that he has gone through begin to sink in.
"I hope to Christ there isn't a Ghost of Horizons' Future. I'm not sure I can handle it, honestly."
"That's because you have no future, Alan Wallace."
This time the voice that he is hearing is more sinister, and more violent. A shape begins to move towards him, and he begins to tremble inconsolably as it nears him. As it comes into view, he can see that it is patting a baseball bat against its palm.
"There can't very well be a Ghost of Horizons' Future, when you have no Horizons' future, Humble. You idiotic fucking twat."
The words sting, and almost act as a slap in the face to 'Mr. Ego'. He can't even speak, which brings a smile to the face of the being before him.
"That's right, Humble… I want nothing more than for you to fail like the loser piece of shit you are. Once that happens, and the masses realize you are nothing more than a fucking blowhard that does nothing for this industry… once the other members of the Consortium realize that you don't draw, whether it's the Chaos division, the Co-Op division, the C-H division, or the World Title division… only then can I truly do what I have wanted to do ever since you signed that fucking contract. And that is beat the ever-loving piss out of you with Louis here, and rid this entire industry of the most selfish, self-absorbed, arrogant piece of shit I've ever had the misfortune of actually meeting. And I've met Jet Somers, for fucks sake. But once that happens, and you are deemed completely irrelevant, Louis is gonna drink in your blood, Humble. And because you've been such an ignorant asshole in life, there's going to be nobody that misses you. Because you've never given anything to anyone, just out of the goodness of your heart. And that will be your ultimate downfall."
With that, the figure swings the bat, causing Vain to rear back into his bed, anxiously awaiting the beating that he is sure to take.
But after more than two minutes, nothing has happened. When he finally opens his eyes, he sees that he is alone in his room, and that the sunlight from the rising sun is just now beginning to peek through the window to his room. Wiping at his forehead, he grabs the phone from the end table that rests beside the bed. He scrolls through his contacts, finally satisfied. He places the call, and then places the phone up to his ear.
"Simon, get up, and get over here. I've finally figured out that what I need to get for Travis… it has to be something that is completely personal, and it has to actually mean something. And I have just the idea."
With that, Vain hangs up the phone, shuddering one last time, before slinking back into his bead.
Friday, December 9th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
Travis looks down at his gift, and then back up at Vain.
Roberts: Alan, you really shouldn't have.
"Nonsense, Travis. I've recently come to realize that there hasn't been a whole hell of a lot that I have done in life, that has been decided with the well-being of others in mind. On this day, I begin to right that wrong. And after much consternation, I have found the perfect item to do that."
Finally acquiescing, Travis carefully begins taking the paper off of the package, to reveal a box. Taking the lid off of the box, he pulls out a manila envelope. He opens the envelope to pull out a stack of papers, and then begins rifling through them. With each passing piece of paper, he seems to be growing more concerned. Finally, he looks back up at Vain.
Roberts: What, exactly, is this, Alan? What the hell?"
"You have given me so much, Travis. For the longest time, I did not know how I would ever repay it. After a rough night of sleep, and then a day speaking to my litigation team, I feel this is the perfect way to show you exactly how I feel, dear Travis."
Roberts: Custody and Visitation paperwork, Alan?
Vain beams with pride at his gift.
"I know how much the title has meant to you over the last year, Travis. I know how much time and effort you have put into defending the title over these last eleven months, in an attempt to try and catapult your reign to what mine was the year previous. And I appreciate it so, so much. How much? So much so, that once I beat you for the UGWC Heavyweight Championship of the World at Horizons, I am willingly granted you the ability to visit her whenever you possibly can. Knowing how much she means to you, that is the least that I can do, Travis."
Travis is left speechless, as Vain turns to exit the room. He grabs a hold of the door to pull it closed, but stops. Turning his head, he calls out to Roberts, before shutting the door.
"You're welcome, Travis. And Merry Christmas."
FIN
Vain stands in the foyer here at Casa del Roberts, a heartbroken smile resting upon his face. Two months ago - when he was at his lowest - he had been given refuge here by the World Champion. When he had nowhere left to turn, it was 'The Blessed One' that had extended the olive-branch of courtesy, allowing Vain to stay with him while Wallace Estates was scheduled to be completely renovated, to the point where Vain had hoped that memory of the horrors that had transpired would soon ease themselves from his memory.
Who would have guessed that the two men with arguably the two biggest egos in this industry would get along well enough for that to actually work, but somehow it did. Vain already respected Roberts for everything that he had done in this industry, but during the first month, a bond began to grow between the two men. A friendship began to blossom. A brotherhood began to be defined.
It was quite a blow to Vain when Roberts had announced that he was going to be living in a hotel until after Horizons. With Vain having become the number-one contender to Roberts' title, he understood that the two men each needed their space during the lead-up to their epic third encounter, but knowing that fact and liking that fact are two entirely different things. Yet, still, he respected Travis' decision. So much so, that he sent his own personal harem with 'The Headliner', so that he would be completely comfortable while getting accustomed to his new surroundings. There was only one real downside to that decision, and it was something that just dawned on him as he stared out at the luxury of Casa del Roberts…
Vain hadn't had a grape in weeks.
Vain doesn't hear Simon come inside, and he nearly jumps out of his custom-made pearl white Armani suit when Simon clasps him on the shoulder.
"Sweet butter crumpets! You have got to stop sneaking up on me like that, Simon. Unless you prefer to watch me suffer a cardiac episode."
Simon Wellington looks at him in confusion for a moment, before speaking.
"That is - literally - the only time I have ever 'snuck' up on you, Alan. Ever."
"Well it was one time too many then, Mr. Wellington."
Vain returns to gazing out at the inner workings of the house in silence, while Simon stands there checking his watch.
"I hate to rush you Alan, but you are aware that we have a plane to catch later in the afternoon. And considering we still have to make a stop, I feel it's best if we get going relatively soon."
"I know…I know. I just need a moment, Simon. There were many great times that were had in this humble abode. Memories that will last a lifetime, my friend."
"Memories to last a lifetime? In two months' time, Alan? Seriously?"
Vain suddenly turns around, a look of annoyance forming on his face.
"It isn't the length of time, Simon. It's what you do with it!"
Simon goes to speak but stops, obviously thinking of what Vain has just said.
"And yes, 'The Vain One' is well aware that you have probably been told that on more than one occasion, Simon. In those cases, they lied. Poor bastard."
"Quite juvenile, if you don't mind my saying so, Alan."
Vain dismisses him with a wave of the hand.
"Travis could have turned me away when I had nowhere else to go, Simon. The fact that he took me in and allowed me to make his home, my home, means more than you could ever understand."
"Is that why we were shopping for pretty much the entire day earlier this week? So that you could show your appreciation?"
"Yes, actually it was, Simon. And you screwed everything all up. For Travis' sake, at least one of us is competent. Like your girlfriends from high school, I was able to overcome your various shortcomings, Simon."
"Oh goodie, it's Juvenile Junction time again. Just meet me in the car once you've finished on the two month nostalgia tour, alright? We have things to do."
Simon turns and disappears out the door, as Vain rolls his eyes.
"He's such a drama queen, my Christ."
~-------------------------------------------45 Minutes Later-------------------------------------------~
The door opens, and Vain finds himself face-to-face with harem-member Cindy. He smiles at her.
"Cindy, my dear, how have you been? Is Mr. Roberts in on this fine day?"
At the sound of his name, Roberts appears from around the corner. Confused, he walks over, as Cindy disappears into the bedroom.
Roberts: Alan, I wasn't expecting to you see you until Monday. Is anything wrong?"
"Quite the contrary, dear Travis. I merely am stopping by for two reasons. To say thank you, and to give you this."
Vain hands Travis a medium-sized boxed, wrapped completely in light pink wrapping paper, complete with a golden bow. As Travis looks down at the gift, Vain speaks.
"I also wanted to let you know that I have gathered all of my belongings, and have vacated Casa del Roberts. Go home, Travis, and get a good night's sleep."
Travis looks at him in a confused manner.
Roberts: Alan, you know you can stay there as long as you wish. I just felt that with our upcoming match, it'd be best if we weren't both there."
"I completely understand, Travis, and I appreciate everything that you have done for me in recent months. It's more than most would have done, that much I can assure you. You not only gave me a place to stay, but you gave me hope. Hope that someone like me can have actual friends, even when slated to face one another for the biggest prize in the business. For that I could never fully repay you, but I hope what you have in your hand is at least a good start."
Travis looks back down at the gift, as Vain smiles.
Monday, December 5th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
"Surely, you can't be serious?"
Simon stares at Vain with a flabbergasted look upon his face, as Vain turns towards him, 'seriousness' all over his face.
"Oh, I am deadly serious. And don't call me Shirley."
Vain doesn't allow Simon the time to respond, instead deciding to walk ahead of 'The Scholar', as he looks around at the various stores that surround him. Simon breaks into a trot to catch up.
"Look Alan, I know that you feel that you owe Travis Roberts for allowing you into his home… and I know that you've been working on 'turning over a new leaf' over the last six months to a year. But are we seriously going to do this?"
"No need to be a Grinch, Mr. Wellington. Why will your heart not grow three sizes on this day? Will the true meaning of Christmas not come through, thus disallowing 'The Scholar' to find the strength of ten Grinches, plus two?"
Simon doesn't respond, instead deciding to tag along in silence, as Vain begins going into various stores. After twenty minutes or so of finding nothing, Simon decides that it will be up to him to end this undertaking.
"Ok, Alan, you win. If you are wanting to find the perfect gift for Travis Roberts, to show your appreciation for him allowing you to stay at Casa del Roberts, then I will do my best to help with that."
"I knew you had it in you, Mr. Grinch! Come… let's shop!"
Over the next few hours, Simon spots numerous items that he feels could act as a show of gratitude for Mr. Roberts' kind act. They all end in the same manner.
~
"Now this is tasteful, and completely understated. I think it would make a fine addition to Mr. Roberts' home."
"A doormat, Simon? Really? Of all the items that we have perused through over the course of this day, you feel that a doormat is the best way for Vain to say 'thank you', for all that Travis has done for me?"
"Well, it seems rather welcoming, Alan."
"It says 'Welcome' on it, Simon. Nothing more, and nothing less. Plus… it's a doormat. A doormat, Simon!"
"Fine, Alan… I'll put it back."
"No, no… I'll get it. It would make a perfect gift for Dave Rydell."
~
"Now this is a beautiful work of art, Alan. And I know that you would agree, because you own something similar back in Miami. This would be the perfect gift."
"It is, indeed, a beautiful vanity dresser and mirror set. However, I do not feel it is something that would properly convey my feelings towards 'The Blessed One'. He is not a man that is in need of another vanity, for the one he has is of the finest of qualities. It's quite stunning, if I must say."
"Quite the shame that we will not be purchasing it though. It is of great quality."
"I never said I would not be purchasing it, Simon. I am almost certain that it would do Holden Orson a world of good. He could spend many a day staring into his own reflection, in hopes that he can catch a glimpse of the man that he used to be, so that he can stop being nothing more than a caricature of himself with The Engine."
~
"I know this isn't your forte, Alan… but this would make a splendid gift to act as a 'thank you'."
Vain steps forward to further investigate this newest finding of Simon's. After a few moments, he sighs.
"Johnnie Walker Blue Label King George V Edition? Hmm, while I am not one to partake in imbibing the drink very often, I do know a quality beverage when I see it. The main issue being, however, is that while Travis does indulge from time to time, alcohol doesn't seem to be his vice. I mean, it does say blue label, Simon. Not green."
"I'm sure they have a green label somewhere…"
Vain laughs loudly, causing numerous people around him to turn and look. The looks turn to stares, once his fellow shoppers realize who he is. In some case, the stares turn to drools. Typical day at the office for 'Yours Truly'.
"While I am sure there is a green label somewhere, keep a hold of the King George Edition. I know someone that will be most appreciative of it."
"Yes, but even though you have been to his house in the past, you don't particularly care for Chaos, Alan. Why would you gift him something like this?"
"Not Chaos, you ignoramus. Killian. Jesus…"
~
As the sun sets on this beautiful day, Simon and Alan are shown seated on a bench. Both look worse for the wear, and completely weary.
"So what now, Alan?"
Vain sighs, as he rises to his feet.
"Well it seems that I still have some thinking to do as to what will make the perfect gift to show my appreciation for Travis Roberts. And you? You have gifts to wrap, and cards to buy."
With that, Vain turns and walks away, leaving Simon alone to deal with the gifts that have been purchased.
"How am I going to get this stuff home? You're my ride…"
Vain continues walking, choosing not to hear his advocate.
Wednesday, December 7th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
Rolling over onto his left side, a slight smile forms on the face of 'Vain' Alan Wallace, as he settles in for a good night's sleep here in Casa del Roberts. It had been a long few days of shopping for what Vain wanted to be the perfect gift, and though he had still yet to settle on what that gift would be, deep down he knew that it was only a matter of time before he was able to truly show his appreciation for all that had been done for him.
And that thought allowed him to sleep easier than he had in a long time. Until it happened…
CLANK!!!
Vain awakes with a start, rubbing at his eyes, as he attempts to see out into the darkness.
"What in blue blazes?!"
Hearing nothing, he lies back down, attempting to get settled in the position he had been in before being awakened.
"That's weird… my dreams usually involve the clanging of headboards. Not the clanking of, well, whatever that was."
CLANK!!! CLANK!!!
Vain sits completely upright this time, a mixture of confusion and anger setting in.
"I don't like my dreams, like Chaos likes his porn. Interactive is not something I'm extremely fond of when it comes to dreams."
"That's because it wasn’t a dream, Alan Wallace."
The voice echoed eerily through the bedroom, causing Vain's arms to break out into goosebumps. He struggled to get his eyes to adjust to the darkness, to see what female voice was permeating his room in such a way. When he was finally able to focus in, he sat completely rigid, small beads of sweat beginning to form on his forehead. As she wafts closer, he somehow manages to find the strength to speak.
"Candi? Can it be? Surely it cannot… you can't be. Can you? Are you…are you…"
"Dead? Am I dead, Alan? No, far from it actually. Though, as far as you are concerned, I very well might as well be."
"Now that isn't fair, Candi. I don't wish you ill will… I just don't care if you have good fortunes. There is a difference, you know."
"Yes, that I do know, Alan. Yet, how you feel about me… is how the wrestling industry will feel about you one day. If you don't change your ways, that is…"
"I've grown bored of these theatrics, Candi. Either climb into bed and get what you have been longing for since I left you at the altar, or be gone, and allow me to get some sleep."
"You are a legend in your own mind, Alan Wallace. That is far from the reason why I am here tonight."
Vain is beginning to grow irritated now, as the look on his face can attest.
"Then why are you here, Celeste?"
Her chuckle sends shivers up his spine.
"That is quite simple, Alan Wallace. I am the Ghost of Horizons' Past."
She motions for him to follow, as she drifts effortlessly towards the doorway. Try as he might, he is unable to fight the urge to arise from his bed and follow behind. As he walks out into what should be the hallway, he is immediately transferred to the 2013 edition of Horizons, at the end of the Tournamental match that saw him best that dastardly Klaus vonKnorre, and become the Cross-Hemisphere Champion.
"Simply a beautiful display, all throughout that match. I was able to best the Kraut in his own match. And I did so without a hair out of place, I might add."
"And a few months later, there was another incident where your performed without a hair out of place, isn't that right, Alan Wallace?"
The scene immediately transforms to ringside of the April 7th, 2014 edition of Synergy. The current Vain finds himself standing amongst the masses at ringside, directly behind his co-members of the Puppet Masters, who are seated at ringside. He looks up and sees the aftermath of what he had done that night, and he watches as Candi breaks down into tears inside the ring. As he watches in amusement, the Ghost of Horizons' Past moves beside him.
"You were right… I got through this night without a hair out of place, too. Beautiful, is it not?"
The look on her face turns to pure malice, as she begins moving towards Vain with vigor. Instinctively, he begins backpedaling, as fire burns in her eyes.
"That's always been your problem, Alan Wallace. Everything is one big joke… you never take anyone or anything seriously enough. You will do anything that you can for cheap laughs, to hurt people… and you never give anything of yourself in the process. You have alienated anyone and everyone that you have come across, Alan Wallace, and because you have refused to have one genuine interaction with another person in your entire life, you are going to die a lonely, bitter man."
Tears fill his eyes as he continues to back away.
"You're right, I have been a complete asshole over the years. This, I cannot deny… but I've changed. Honestly, I have changed… and I have gained a few true friendships. I've given of myself, I swear…"
She continues moving towards him, as he continues attempting to get away from her…
CLANK!!! CLANK!!! CLANK!!!
He sits up with a fright, sweat pouring from his brow, and tears streaming from his eyes. He wipes at them dramatically, before exhaling in relief.
"Thank Christ… just a dream. That's the last time I eat Del Taco after eight."
"Oh, but it wasn't a dream, Alan Wallace. In any way, shape, or form."
A familiar man stares down at Vain, and though he is glowing and somewhat transparent, Vain seems to recognize him.
"For I am the Ghost of Horizons' Present."
"No… you are Simon Wellington. Stop fucking around, and get out of my room. I've already had a rough night sleeping. The last thing I need is to hear your heavy breathing while I get my beauty sleep."
"No, Alan Wallace… I am the Ghost of Christmas Present. And we have much to see. Quickly… grab onto my robe. We cannot be late!"
"Simon… that's my robe."
"Hurry! We mustn't be late!"
Instinctively, Vain grabs a hold of the robe that the Ghost of Horizons' Present is wearing, and in the blink of an eye, they are looking in the window of a run-down house. It is completely empty, and Vain is confused as he looks in the window. Turning towards what looks like Simon, he speaks.
"Look, Simon… I know that you don't have much else going for you in life, but instead of staring into an empty house, I could be getting my beauty sleep. I have a busy day tomorrow."
"For starters, you twit, I am not this Simon of which you speak. Secondly, there is a very good reason why we are here right now. You see, this is what you will see, no matter what happens during your match against Travis Roberts on Monday night. Whether you once again become the UGWC Heavyweight Champion of the World, or you are bested - yet again - by the man known as 'The Blessed One', this will be what you have in store for yourself, Alan Wallace. A night of sheer ecstasy, or a night of morbid despair, spent entirely alone, and void of any type of human interaction. No matter what happens, there will be no harem… there will be no Killian King… there will be no Travis Roberts… and there will be no Simon Wellington, because quite frankly, I can only take so much of you at one time, Alan."
"But I thought you were the Ghost of Horizons' Present, and not Simon 'The Scholar' Wellington?"
"Shut up, Alan, and focus. What you see before you is what you have become. You've never shown true appreciation for anyone in your life, and complete and utter loneliness is what will be the direct result of that. No matter how much you try to make amends now, everyone sees through you, Alan. You have never done anything for anyone, without it being something that benefits yourself. And that is the cold, hard, truth of the matter… no matter how much you now claim otherwise."
"You don't understand, what Killian and I have… what Travis and I now have… it's real, and it's true. You've gotta believe me, spirit!"
Vain grabs a hold of the robe and begins shaking the man wearing it. In a flash, the robe comes off, and completely engulfs 'The Vain One'. He attempts to fight his way out of it, and when he finally does, he is back in his room once more. He begins to shake, as the events that he has gone through begin to sink in.
"I hope to Christ there isn't a Ghost of Horizons' Future. I'm not sure I can handle it, honestly."
"That's because you have no future, Alan Wallace."
This time the voice that he is hearing is more sinister, and more violent. A shape begins to move towards him, and he begins to tremble inconsolably as it nears him. As it comes into view, he can see that it is patting a baseball bat against its palm.
"There can't very well be a Ghost of Horizons' Future, when you have no Horizons' future, Humble. You idiotic fucking twat."
The words sting, and almost act as a slap in the face to 'Mr. Ego'. He can't even speak, which brings a smile to the face of the being before him.
"That's right, Humble… I want nothing more than for you to fail like the loser piece of shit you are. Once that happens, and the masses realize you are nothing more than a fucking blowhard that does nothing for this industry… once the other members of the Consortium realize that you don't draw, whether it's the Chaos division, the Co-Op division, the C-H division, or the World Title division… only then can I truly do what I have wanted to do ever since you signed that fucking contract. And that is beat the ever-loving piss out of you with Louis here, and rid this entire industry of the most selfish, self-absorbed, arrogant piece of shit I've ever had the misfortune of actually meeting. And I've met Jet Somers, for fucks sake. But once that happens, and you are deemed completely irrelevant, Louis is gonna drink in your blood, Humble. And because you've been such an ignorant asshole in life, there's going to be nobody that misses you. Because you've never given anything to anyone, just out of the goodness of your heart. And that will be your ultimate downfall."
With that, the figure swings the bat, causing Vain to rear back into his bed, anxiously awaiting the beating that he is sure to take.
But after more than two minutes, nothing has happened. When he finally opens his eyes, he sees that he is alone in his room, and that the sunlight from the rising sun is just now beginning to peek through the window to his room. Wiping at his forehead, he grabs the phone from the end table that rests beside the bed. He scrolls through his contacts, finally satisfied. He places the call, and then places the phone up to his ear.
"Simon, get up, and get over here. I've finally figured out that what I need to get for Travis… it has to be something that is completely personal, and it has to actually mean something. And I have just the idea."
With that, Vain hangs up the phone, shuddering one last time, before slinking back into his bead.
Friday, December 9th, 2016 - Los Angeles, California
Travis looks down at his gift, and then back up at Vain.
Roberts: Alan, you really shouldn't have.
"Nonsense, Travis. I've recently come to realize that there hasn't been a whole hell of a lot that I have done in life, that has been decided with the well-being of others in mind. On this day, I begin to right that wrong. And after much consternation, I have found the perfect item to do that."
Finally acquiescing, Travis carefully begins taking the paper off of the package, to reveal a box. Taking the lid off of the box, he pulls out a manila envelope. He opens the envelope to pull out a stack of papers, and then begins rifling through them. With each passing piece of paper, he seems to be growing more concerned. Finally, he looks back up at Vain.
Roberts: What, exactly, is this, Alan? What the hell?"
"You have given me so much, Travis. For the longest time, I did not know how I would ever repay it. After a rough night of sleep, and then a day speaking to my litigation team, I feel this is the perfect way to show you exactly how I feel, dear Travis."
Roberts: Custody and Visitation paperwork, Alan?
Vain beams with pride at his gift.
"I know how much the title has meant to you over the last year, Travis. I know how much time and effort you have put into defending the title over these last eleven months, in an attempt to try and catapult your reign to what mine was the year previous. And I appreciate it so, so much. How much? So much so, that once I beat you for the UGWC Heavyweight Championship of the World at Horizons, I am willingly granted you the ability to visit her whenever you possibly can. Knowing how much she means to you, that is the least that I can do, Travis."
Travis is left speechless, as Vain turns to exit the room. He grabs a hold of the door to pull it closed, but stops. Turning his head, he calls out to Roberts, before shutting the door.
"You're welcome, Travis. And Merry Christmas."
FIN
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