Post by Mr.Ego on Oct 27, 2018 21:03:30 GMT -5
Monday, October 22, 2018 - Chicago, Illinois: UGWC Arena - Post Synergy
Vain confidently strides through the backstage area, smiling ear-to-ear as numerous UGWC employees cast looks his way ranging from confusion to disappointment. He pays them no mind, beginning to whistle the tune "I'm Sexy and I Know It", by LMFAO, as he confidently navigates the backstage corridors. Rounding the corner, he takes note of Simon Wellington standing against the far wall, his arms folded across his chest as he stands beside the entrance to Vain's locker room. Simon doesn't wait for him to approach.
"Would you mind telling me what is that you think you are doing?"
Alan stops for a moment, sparing a glance over his shoulder, before turning back and continuing towards his destination. As he nears his advocate, he replies.
"Well hello to you as well, Dear Simon. Lovely evening, isn't it?"
Providing a smile that can only be described as condescendingly mocking, he brushes past Simon, opening the door to his locker room and stepping inside. Simon is right behind him, shutting the door once he has stepped through the doorway.
"I'm serious, Alan. I cannot perform my duties to the levels that you require, if you keep me in the dark of what you are planning. You're handicapping my ability to serve you to the highest of my abilities."
Having approached the mini fridge and procured a VEEN water from within, Alan turns back towards Simon, as he begins un-screwing the cap from the bottle.
"I completely agree, Simon. One-hundred percent. Good talk."
Taking a gulp from the bottle, Vin replaces the cap, before grabbing a freshly laundered and folded white towel from the counter top. Wiping his face, he walks over and takes a seat on the black leather sofa that is positioned along the wall to his left. Simon sighs, apparently quite cognizant of the way this conversation is likely to go.
"I'm quite serious, Alan. What was that out there tonight?"
With a raise of his eyebrows, Alan leans back in his seat, crossing his right leg over his left as he looks up at Simon.
"Oh, that? That was just my way of telling Ms. Lacklan hello. Nothing more, nothing less."
Simon pinches the bridge of his nose between his forefinger and his thumb, eliciting another sigh in the process.
"While the sneak attack on Kenzi Grey is an issue we should discuss in detail at some point, that is not the event that I am speaking of, Alan. What happened with the Cross-Hemisphere Championship?"
Alan seems confused as he takes another drink from his water bottle.
"Why, whatever do you mean, Simon?"
"Alan, you effectively vacated a championship that many here view as being just as - if not more - prestigious than the UGWC World Championship. You don't feel that is something that we should have discussed beforehand, especially since you were a mere eight days away from breaking Phrixus Deimos' mark of total combined days holding that championship?"
Alan's confusion only grows deeper.
"Vacate? What are you talking about, Simon? I didn't vacate the championship. I merely offered the title belt up as motivation for Mr. Somers and Ms. Lockheart; a visual aid to ensure they are aware of what it is that they wish to attain, once they are finished assing about with impromptu, asinine, self-serving challenges."
"Alan, you tossed the title belt onto the ground, an act completely disrespectful to the lineage and history of that championship, I might add… and told them that if they wanted to fight over it, to knock themselves out. That you have 'a bigger match to prepare for'. To everyone who witnessed that travesty, it was obvious that you were vacating the championship."
"Incorrect, Simon. That would only be obvious to an idiot."
"Well, Robert Ooley seemed to agree."
"Well if that isn't concrete evidence of validation to my assessment, then I don't know what is. Then again, who gives a damn what Ooley thinks anyway? He's retired."
"For the love of all that is holy… do you not pay attention to anything going on around you? Your personal feelings towards Ooley aside, no Alan, he is not retired. He is still firmly entrenched as a member of 'The Consortium', and after witnessing the debacle that occurred here tonight, he has mandated that Magdalena Lockheart and Jet Somers will fight at Battleground, for the right to become the new UGWC Cross-Hemisphere Champion."
Alan springs to his feet, the vein in his forehead quite noticeable as he walks over towards Simon, glaring down at him.
"That is the most ludicrous thing I have ever heard. So now, because I want to ensure that our fans are given the single greatest World Championship Match of all time, I am once again being given the shaft regarding the Cross-Hemisphere Championship? What is it with the companies infatuation with screwing Alan Wallace out of C-H Title reigns that I have earned fairly and squarely since I've been here?"
"I'm sorry?"
"You heard what I said, Simon. I was quite clear. This isn't the first time that Robert Ooley has attempted to dick me out of holding that championship. Not quite four years ago, after I won Tournamental at Horizons 2013, Ooley stripped me of it over sheer and utter bullshit. Thankfully, Creative Director Damarest rectified that atrocity, and awarded me the title that I never lost in the first place a few weeks later. And what about winning Run of the Mill a year later at Horizons 2014, only to be told three months later that in order to be granted the World Title Match that I had rightfully earned through hard work and dedication, I would have to vacate the very C-H Title that I had gone through hell to win back in the first place? And then the farce of a triple threat match involving Travis Pierce and Jessica Mathis at Lord of Trios this past March, where I wasn't even pinned or made to submit, yet Travis Pierce still was allowed to call himself the UGWC Cross-Hemisphere Champion at the end of that night? And now tonight? This marks the fourth time that our establishment has gone out of their way to see to it that 'Vain' Alan Wallace is referred to as a former UGWC Cross-Hemisphere Champion, and quite frankly, I'm sick of the disrespect."
Simon holds his hands up in a defenseless position, doing his best to attempt to calm Alan down.
"Look Alan, I know that things haven't always seemed fair-"
"No Simon, you don't know a damned thing. You may have been a champion two decades ago, but you have no earthly idea what it is like to walk in my shoes. You have no idea what it is like to be the best that this industry has ever seen, and to have to continually prove so when everyone is against you. And you have no idea what it is like to be forced to bear witness to other, LESSER, people claim to be what you have rightfully earned!"
The now former Cross-Hemisphere Champion throws his water bottle across the room, before sticking his finger in Simon's face.
"Go. Now. Find Ooley, or Hastings, or Vines, and rectify this situation. And do not come back until you have my Cross-Hemisphere Championship in your possession!"
Alan turns and stomps away, grabbing his bag from the locker, and then disappearing around the corner, heading into the shower area. With a loud, defeated exhale, Simon turns and opens the locker room door, slowly shaking his head from side-to-side as he steps through and shuts the door behind him.
=======
Congratulations on another exceptional upcoming showing, Alan Wallace. I've stated in the past that I believed you would still be champion by Horizons, and that hasn't changed; nor has my belief that in a one-on-one affair between the two of us, that the match will end in my victory. First, however, I must contend with my opponents in the Battleground Match.
I know that my five opponents will give me everything that they have when we enter that cell in Columbus, Ohio. And aside from Konrad Raab, I know that each has the tools to emerge victorious in that match. However, I have serious doubt that any of them can stand toe-to-toe with Alan Wallace at the biggest spectacle of the year, and emerge as the new UGWC World Champion.
Just as I know those other competitors have serious doubts that I can do the same.
Everyone doubted me when I entered the Wrestlestock Open and competed in my initial matches here in UGWC. I proved them all wrong by winning that Wrestlestock Open, and being award the Wrestlestock Open Cup Trophy.
Everyone doubted me when I entered this past Massive Melee event, including Alan Wallace, and I proved them all wrong by winning that Massive Melee battle royal as well. And, fittingly, it was Alan Wallace who I eliminated last, in route to that victory. It was the single, greatest, most defining moment of my still young career. That, however, changes at Horizons, when I stand toe-to-toe against 'The Vain One' once more, and I emerge victorious once more.
Some would argue that there is the off chance that Sarah Lacklan could somehow do what Eden Morgan, Jet Somers, Lucy Wylde, Maggie Lockheart, Zane Scott, and even myself have failed to do since Wrestlestock - some of those on multiple occasions… and that is to defeat Alan Wallace in a match when it matters most. Having been in the ring with Sarah, I do not think that it is her time. Not now. Not here. The numbers simply do not add up.
21
The total number of opponents that Alan Wallace has defeated - many of them multiple times - since he defeated Klaus vonKnorre for the UGWC World Title at Massive Melee 2015.
10
The total number of matches, including that World Title Match against Klaus vonKnorre, that Alan Wallace has won with the World championship on the line.
0
The total number of wrestlers that have defeated Alan Wallace on their first attempt, when the UGWC World Championship has been on the line.
There has been nobody employed by UGWC that has been able to defeat Alan Wallace in their first attempt at wrestling the World Title from him. That is a very telling statistic, Sarah. Zero times has that happened, Sarah. And I do not believe that fact changes at Battleground. Fortunately, I have had the honor of facing him for that championship, when I was involved in the main event title match at this past Outlast.
That means I know what to expect, Sarah. Which raises the odds that when I meet Alan Wallace at Horizons, I will walk out as the new World Champion.
Now I know that statement will force you to channel your inner Holden Orson and scoff, but the numbers don't lie. They say that all wrestlers are created equal, Sarah, but when you look at me and you look at you, you can see that statement isn't true. Normally, if we are just comparing two wrestlers, each would have a fifty-fifty chance of making it to the Horizons Main Event. But I have already taken the best that you have to offer, and not only am I still standing, but I learned quite a bit from that experience. And that is to go along with what I learned by watching Alan during our match at Outlast. So that means that of the two of us, there is a twenty-five percent chance, at best, that you make it to the Horizons World Title Match instead of me. If you add in the fact that you have never faced Alan in a match, and all of the pressure that will entail, your chances of besting him at Battleground drastically go down. That means that of the three of us, you have a thirty-three and one-third percent chance of making it to the World Title Match at Horizons, but I have a sixty-six and two-thirds chance of not only making it to Horizons, but winning, because Alan Wallace knows that he cannot beat me again, and he likely will treat the match like it is a Synergy, and put in minimal effort.
So Sarah, if you take your thirty-three and one-third percent chance, and subtract my twenty-five percent chance, you have an eight and one-third percent chance of beating Alan at Battleground, and then going on and facing someone not named Kem Dynamo at Horizons. However, if you take my seventy-five percent chance of making it to the Horizons Main Event and add my sixty-six and two-thirds chance, if we were to go one-on-one, that means that I would have a one-hundred forty-one and two-thirds percent chance of beating you at Horizons.
Like I said, Sarah… the numbers don't lie… and they spell disaster for your chances to make it to the Horizons Main Event Match and emerge victorious. As Alan would say…
'You're Welcome'.
=======
Two days before the Battleground Match win. Columbus, Ohio. Saturday 27th September. (On camera)
It's a quiet afternoon with 'Konrad' sitting in the center of the UGWC ring, a 'marijuana' joint in hand as he thinks of how he would rather me in bed with Fizz or talking to Sebastian once he can get him to come home. 'Konrad' always prefers doing the usual father role because he enjoys it more than wrestling or playing soccer or even smoking marijuana but he knows that he loves wrestling and he knows that at Battleground he will become a great wrestler in the eyes of the UGWC fans.
'Konrad Raab': "I wish I could be home right now. I wish I could be with Fizz and Mattheus and Roderick. I wish I could save Sebastian's life. Those things are out of my control but what is in my control is winning the Battleground Match that I find myself placed into and going on to fight Vain at Horizons. It will be a hard fight as Kem and Travis and Phrixus and Zane and Le Bord are all great wrestlers, but I am a great wrestler too and I will prove that by beating them on Monday. And then I will fight Vain for the UGWC World Title and become the best wrestler in the world and will become a man my children can finally be proud of."
'Konrad' takes an inhale of his 'marijuana' joint and immediately begins coughing, bracing himself with his free hand so that he doesn't tumble over onto his side. The coughing finally subsides and 'Konrad' continues.
'Konrad': "Sarah Selena Lacklan-Grey is a great wrestler and will give Vain a great challenge but in the end Vain will win because he is what I aspire to one day be. Just like I will win the Battleground Match because it is what I aspire to do. And then when I face Vain at Horizons I will win because I am the best wrestler in the company even though Vain is great. And Kem and Zane and Travis and Phrixus and Le Bord and Sarah. But I am out to prove that I am great too and I can only do that by beating all those other great wrestlers and becoming the best great wrestler in UGWC."
'Konrad' looks at his 'marijuana' joint before flicking it out to the floor, and then proceeds to sit there in deep silence. This match is no laughing matter. This match is everything to 'Konrad'. More than soccer. More than Fizz and his kids even though they are very important too. More important. But this match is everything because it will mean 'Konrad' has finally made it and it will mean that 'Konrad' will now finally have respect.
'Konrad': "On Monday I beat five other great wrestlers and then at Horizons I beat the greatest wrestler in Vain. And then I will be the greatest wrestler anyone has ever seen and all fans will love me even more because they will know that I always did the right thing to get where I am to achieve success as a wrestler in this company."
=======
Tuesday, October 23, 2018 - Miami, Florida: Wallace/Worth Estate
"I understand your frustrations, Alan, but you have to find a way to put this behind you. You have a match with Sarah coming up that requires you to stay focused. Unless, of course, you have chosen to become a former UGWC World Champion as well?"
Seated at the foot of the bed and leaning forward with his forearms resting on his knees, Alan suddenly sits straight up, looking across the room at Celeste, as she finishes drying off from her shower.
"Of course not! Being the UGWC World Champion means more to me than just about anything else in the world-"
Celeste cuts him a look, which he immediately notices, causing his demeanor to slightly soften.
"Presently company excluded, obviously, my dear."
"Mm-hmm…"
Celeste rolls her eyes as she turns and hangs the towel up on the hook, before grabbing her brush and beginning to fix up her hair. Alan continues.
"As I was saying, being the UGWC World Champion means more to me in my professional life than just about anything else. The thing is, when I hold the Cross-Hemisphere Championship, I put that title on the same pedestal as I do the World Championship. Which means that each title is viewed by the masses as being just as important as the other. That same viewpoint doesn't hold true when Alan Wallace doesn't hold the Cross-Hemisphere Championship, and the history of that title is only further diminished by how it came to be that I am now considered a former Cross-Hemisphere Champion."
Celeste eases her perfectly sculpted frame into a plush, white bathrobe, and then turns out the bathroom light and casually strolls across the bedroom. Reaching the bed, she takes a seat beside of her fiancé, gently patting him on the leg as he looks into her eyes.
"Simon texted your earlier today, did he not? And did he not tell you that he had another meeting scheduled with The Consortium tomorrow morning?"
Vain nods, yet says nothing.
"Then I am sure he will get to the bottom of things, and have good news for you soon. You are worrying yourself over something that, currently, is beyond your control. Besides…"
She leans over and gives him a soft kiss on the neck, before slowly moving her mouth towards his ear and whispering softly into it.
"Everyone knows that, Cross-Hemisphere Champion in name or not, that you are the true holder of that title. And it isn't like a match with you isn't more important than competing for a championship anyway. And those that bellow otherwise are liars."
For the first time, Alan smiles.
"Well yes, obviously."
"Good. Then what say we go to bed now, and you focus on your World Title Match starting tomorrow. Right now, it's time that you defend another title that I know you are extremely proud of…"
She slowly rises to her feet, maneuvering the robe over her shoulders so that he falls silently to the floor, and stands there in stark nakedness, as a grin forms on the face of Alan Wallace. Reaching down, she grabs his hand and pulls him to his feet, and the two of them make their way to the side of the bed, Celeste beginning to help Alan out of his clothes.
=======
I question if you have noticed me, Mister Wallace.
Much like Mister Pierce, you are quite an odd bird, Sir. The way in which you destroy your enemies, both physically as well as emotionally and mentally, is a sight to behold. Unfortunately those qualities of yours only seem to occur approximately once a month, and you spend the rest of your time being distracted by that which is inconsequential, causing you to lose focus on what is truly important.
Pride is one of the most wretched sins of Almighty God, Mister Wallace. Proverbs 16:18 tells us 'Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall'. And I am the humble servant that has been chosen by the Almighty God to harken that fall, Mister Wallace.
Please allow me to humble you, Mister Wallace. For it is God's will; therefore, it is my purpose.
The Lord's will allowed His chosen vessel to reclaim her title of Champion of Chaos when I disposed of Mister Pierce two weeks ago, and it will be the Lord's will that allows me to take my rightful place in the Horizons Main Event, where Almighty God has seen to it that it will be His beloved servant that will perform a true miracle in His name, when I humble 'Vanity at its Finest'.
I am the Champion of Chaos. In due time, I will be the newly coronated Champion of the World. I am the Queen of Red. And you are destined to face me in ALL of my glory.
Long live the Queen.
=======
October 25Who truly is Alan Wallace?
Long ago, he was a man living off of past achievements, as he found himself mired in meaningless feuds with men named King and Brady. That Alan Wallace, while boastful, found little in the way of reclaiming the past successes that he chose to endlessly prattle on about. That Alan Wallace, while talented, had chosen to end a lengthy respite from in-ring competition, and undoubtedly found himself questioning whether he had made the best decision at his disposal at the time. That Alan Wallace was a far cry from what he would ultimately become.
Or is he still one and the same?
Alan Wallace has, no doubt, experienced a multitude of successes during his tenure with UGWC. Some of the successes have come at my expense. However, he has become as synonymous with his multitude of ebbs and flows, just as he is with the arrogance in which he carries himself.
Alan Wallace can claim that he can be a champion for as long as he wishes, based merely off of his self-anointed skill, as much as he wishes to stake the claim. Alan Wallace can claim that others experienced their greatest of successes based solely off of his decisions to take a step back, if he so chooses. Alan Wallace can continue living in the bubble that he has built for himself, ever since he first appeared on the Global-Tron at Wrestlestock 2013.
Because Alan Wallace is a fool.
I have been here since before UGWC, and before the Alan Wallace's of the world showed their true colors to the masses, and began invalidating all of the things that his predecessors - myself included - built. And I will be here long after the star of someone like Alan Wallace begins to fizzle out.
I begin that process at Horizons.
I care not for titles at this point, because I have held many throughout my career. And I have carried each with the respect and dignity that they deserve, and never have I treated a championship so callously as to simply throw it on the ground due to not wanting to be forced to defend it. The fact that Alan Wallace chose to do so with the championship that I have a soft spot in my heart for?
You have my attention once more, Alan.
World Title or not, at Horizons it WILL be Alan Wallace and Phrixus Deimos in the ring together. And on that night, we answer the biggest question of all.
Who IS Alan Wallace, really?
=======
Thursday, October 25, 2018 - Miami, Florida: Wallace/Worth Estate
"I'm sorry, Alan. I tried. I really did. The Consortium didn't want to hear it."
Alan hangs his head in silence, mindlessly twiddling his thumbs as he sits at the dining room table. Celeste stands behind her man, lightly tapping his shoulders as she looks across at Simon Wellington.
"It's quite alright, Simon. I know that you tried your best, as does Alan."
Vain says nothing, still staring down at the table.
"I plan to call again tomorrow, to see if I can talk some sense into someone up there, but with Battleground fast approaching, I fear my actions might be in vain. No pun intended, obviously."
The last remark elicits a chuckle from Vain, immediately putting Simon slightly more at ease. Wallace finally raises his head, looking across the table at Simon.
"It's alright, Simon. There is no need to take that action."
Simon doesn't know what to say, a fact that Celeste takes note of.
"Are you sure of that, baby? Simon doesn't mind. Isn't that right, Mr. Wellington?"
The look that Celeste casts his way is a mixture of disappointment and anger. It is like a slap in the face to Simon Wellington, who subconsciously slightly recoils from its impact. Immediately righting himself, he looks back down at Alan.
"She is absolutely correct, Alan. I really don't mind. I honestly think if I can have a one-on-one conversation with Dexter, I can begin to make some headwa-"
Alan raises his hand, causing Simon to stop speaking mid-sentence.
"It isn't a fight that is worth having at this point, Simon. I appreciate your efforts to date, but Celeste was right a few days ago. I need to focus on my World Title Match with Sarah Lacklan. We can revisit this Cross-Hemisphere Championship debacle once I have put 'The Matron of Pigeons' back in her place."
"Ok, Alan. Sounds like a plan."
Simon looks back up at Celeste, her glare still firmly entrenched, just as it was a few moments ago. Speaking through gritted teeth, she addresses Alan's friend and advocate.
"Thank you, Simon. That will be all. I assume you can let yourself out?"
It was more statement than fact. Hell, it was a statement of fact, and insight into what she wanted Simon to do. Leave. He had no intention of pressing the issue.
"You're welcome, Ms. Worth. Alan, I will meet you here tomorrow, so that we might fly out to Columbus."
Alan nods at him, and then Simon makes his exit, the sound of the main entryway door shutting as he leaves. Celeste moves around and takes a seat next to Alan.
"Focus on what is immediately in front of you, Alan. Rectify that abomination after you prove your dominance over Sarah Lacklan."
"If, Celeste. If."
Celeste is appalled at the remark, and she makes it known.
"The word 'if' never needs to be a part of your vocabulary, Alan Wallace. You are better than 'if'; you only concentrate on 'when'. 'When' you extinguish the self-proclaimed 'Firestarter', you celebrate your 'win' by reclaiming the Cross-Hemisphere Championship that you never lost. Do you hear me, Alan Wallace?"
Alan doesn't get a chance to respond, as their conversation is interrupted by everyone's beloved Crusader, who appears from the darkened hallway, sticking his head into the dining room and speaking.
Cynric: Your fair maiden is most correct, my charming yet nefarious prince. The quarrel that awaits you is most great, alas, there is no room for uncertainty. Will your 'win' to happen, for it is only 'when' you are confident in your own abilities, that you will achieve your greatest of goals. For there is a quest at Battleground that must be completed, and your lovely Quest Giver has demanded it. Do it for Azeroth!
Cynric disappears into the darkness as quickly as he appeared, causing Alan to look back over at Celeste.
"We're never getting rid of him, are we?"
"I don't know about you, babe, but he's beginning to grow on me."
She laughs, causing Vain to smile, as she reaches over and takes his hand in hers.
=======
'Cartwright': Are you sure about this?
'Travis' nods.
'Pierce': It is high time that I got back to what it is that I do best.
'Cartwright': I couldn't agree more.
Travis nods again.
'Pierce': And seeing as how being Jet Somers' sidekick currently isn't on the table, what better time to dust off the program that all three of my fans have clamored for the return of for months?
'Cartwright': I'm sorry?
'Pierce': Let's get this started.
Cartwright sighs and shakes his head, but picks up a microphone in order to address the empty arena.
'Cartwright': Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to a special empty-arena version of The Piercing Truth! Please welcome your host, the Icon of Entertainment, the King of Charisma, TRAVIS PIERCE!!!
Travis walks into the ring and takes a seat in the director chair that rests in the center.
'Pierce': Thank you, Rob, and welcome to The Piercing Truth!
'Cartwright' once more looks out at the empty arena, sadly shaking his head back and forth again, before backing into the corner and standing there.
'Pierce': This is a special edition of The Piercing Truth, one that I would not be hosting were it not for the importance of the upcoming Battleground Match that I will be winning on Monday. You see, it isn't that my opponents aren't perfectly capable of winning our match and going on to fight for the World Title, even though we all know they aren't.
Crickets
'Pierce': It isn't even about 'Vain' Alan Wallace being the single greatest entertainment professional to ever grace this industry with his presence, even though we all know that he is.
More crickets. Hopefully they're cleaned out by show time.
'Pierce': What this is about is Icon versus Icon; Conglomerate versus Conglomerate; Entity versus Entity.
The silence is broken by the sound of 'Cartwright' coughing.
'Pierce': That was rude.
'Cartwright': I apologize. We can splice that part out when we edit.
'Pierce' covers up the mouthpiece to the headset that he is wearing.
'Pierce': You mean this isn't live?
'Cartwright' looks out at the empty arena for a few moments, before turning back towards 'Pierce'.
'Cartwright': Do you really want it to be?
'Pierce' sighs, before shaking his head negative.
'Pierce': Pierce versus Wallace is the only match that makes sense for Horizons. Pierce versus Wallace is the only match worth headlining Horizons. And Pierce versus Wallace is the only match where losing a match is a perfectly acceptable consolation prize for Travis Pierce, because facing Alan Wallace at Horizons would finish off the bucket list that I made for myself when I first entered this industry. And that's The Piercing Truth!"
'Pierce' takes the headset off and flings it to the side. 'Cartwright' looks at him in confusion.
'Cartwright': Really? That's it?
'Pierce': What can I tell you, 'Rob'? I finally came to the realization that I really have nothing to say of consequence. Never have.
'Rob' doesn't answer, as Travis exits the ring and walks up the ramp.
=======
Why has Donovan given me the opportunity to do something that I haven't earned? To earn something that I do not deserve?
Does he not realize how worthless I am?
Placing me into the Battleground Match is akin to leading the proverbial lamb to slaughter. I stand no chance in winning that match, much like Larry stood no chance in his match against Phrix. So why provide me the opportunity?
Is it to further deepen the disgust that I have of myself, and further deepen the despair that I find myself mired in?
Or is there more to it than that?
Would it be nice to win Battleground, and possibly move on to face Alan for the World Title at Horizons? Of course it would be, but I have done nothing to prove that I am worthy of such an outcome.
I've done nothing to prove that I currently even belong in the same arena as Alan, much less the same ring.
So Battleground will be one more night filled with misery. One more night filled with disgust. One more night filled will despair. One more night filled with pain.
I deserve nothing less.
My own actions and inactions have set me forth on this path. The only thing that now matters is that I must see it through to the end, because quite frankly, there is nothing that I deserve more.
Nothing.
=======
Sunday, October 28, 2018 - Columbus, Ohio: Nationwide Arena - Night Before Battleground
A lone spotlight kicks on, illuminating only the center of the ring. Laid out neatly on the mat are multiple items of interest.
- An exact replica of Kem Dynamo's wrestling attire, complete with dark wig, and extra padding.
- A blue and white luchador mask, complete with golden feathers adorning the sides
- The Holy Bible, King James Edition
- A Journal
- A director's chair
- A Zane Scott Halloween mask, complete with forlorn expression and painted on tears running down the cheeks
Two figures are then shown moving in the darkness out on the floor, the first figure noticeably taller rand broader than the second. The two figures ascend the ring steps, each figure walking in a different direction on the ring apron, before stepping through the ropes and entering the ring. The first figure steps into the spotlight, revealing himself to be the reigning and defending UGWC Heavyweight Champion of the World, 'Vain' Alan Wallace; the second figure, sporting an outfit that makes him look eerily just like Rob Cartwright, is Vain's advocate and friend, Simon 'The Scholar' Wellington.
Simon stands leaning against the ropes in behind the items that litter the ring, as Vain slowly walks around them, coming to a momentary stop in front of each one of them, before finally turning and looking into the camera. Bringing a microphone to his lips, he begins to speak.
"Some of you might be wondering why I would take the time to mock each entertainment professional that will find themselves competing in the Battleground Match main event tomorrow night, when I may not even still be the champion by the time that match starts. Some of you might be wondering why I would choose to seemingly ignore my opponent for tomorrow night, before what will definitely be the biggest match that I have had in quite some time. Some of you might be wondering, frankly, why for the bulk of this week, I have chosen to treat my upcoming match with Sarah Lacklan much like I would treat an episode of UGWC Synergy, which you can watch every Monday night on the UGWC Network for the low, low price of free-ninety-nine a month."
"Worry not, peons, for your World Champion hasn't yet forgotten what is most important."
"You see, it took quite the minimal effort to make light of those six individuals because, quite honestly, that's the amount of effort I would expect to exert should I meet any of those six in the main event at Horizons to close out the year. And, maybe it's a bit egotistical of me to say so, but nobody in their right mind wants 'Vain' Alan Wallace to defend his UGWC World Championship against a single, solitary one of them at our biggest show of the year."
"Nobody who doesn't count calories wants to see 'Vain' Alan Wallace defeat Kem Dynamo again, when we aren't that far removed from him doing so during the Outlast Main Event a mere one month ago."
"Nobody who believes in the grammatical system wants to see 'Vain' Alan Wallace emasculate Konrad Raab in the center of the ring at Horizons, when the biggest opponent that Mr. Raab needs to somehow find a way to defeat is the one known as the English language."
"Nobody not named Necron wants to see Le Bord de Dieu fail her Lord and Savior at Horizons, and ultimately be smited for all of her failures and transgressions in the center of the ring for all to see."
"Nobody who chooses not to keep a diary wants to see Phrixus Deimos have a repeat performance of what occurred at Kobayashi Maru back in 2015, when not only was he forced to admit that I was the better man, but was also forced to watch me perfect the very gimmick that he has brought shame to for the duration of his career."
"Nobody, outside of the three fans of his who are obviously from one single limb of their family tree, wants to see Travis Pierce bring his B-List mentality into a match that he will ultimately lose, which would then force him to join Gabrielle Montgomery in the 'hardcore' genre of adult entertainment."
"Nobody not named Donovan Hastings wants to see Zane Scott sent further into the downward spiral that he currently is embarking upon, leading to him becoming homeless, and becoming the 2018 version of hobo Dirge."
"What everyone wants to see at Horizons… what everyone needs to see at Horizons… is the match that for whatever reason was moved up to tomorrow night: Sarah Selena Lacklan-Grey versus 'Vain' Alan Wallace. Alas, apparently we do not always get what we want."
"You should probably get used to that feeling, Sarah. It will make what happens in twenty-four hours all the more bearable for you."
"Now I won't stand here and proclaim that I know everything there is to know about Sarah Lacklan. I won't pretend to know what it is like to wrestle for multiple companies simultaneously, logging as many miles as you have so far during your young career, all in an attempt to make a name for yourself. I won't pretend to know what it is like to be kidnapped in the manner that you were, suffer the injuries that you suffered, and suddenly begin to question not if you will ever wrestle again… but if you will even be able to walk again. I won't pretend to know what it is like to somehow make such a grand return, do everything that you are supposed to do in order to become as big of a star as possible, only to realize that no matter how hard you try, you will still be eclipsed by someone far and away better than you."
"Pardon me if I do not apologize. I could feign it, but we both know that I wouldn't mean it."
"Then again, you know that already, don't you Sarah? Because the similarities between the two of us are quite striking, I must admit."
"We both proclaim to be the best in this business? Check."
"We both are known to be extremely confident in our abilities, regardless of the odds that are stacked against us? Check."
"We both win far more than we lose, especially when it matters most? Check."
"We both are fairly easy on the eyes, as everyone who knows us can attest? Check."
"We both feel that we are the one to lead this great industry into the new year? Check."
"Quite honestly Sarah, when I look at everything that you bring to this industry, I can't help but feel that I am looking at myself. A female, miniature version, of course, but myself nonetheless. The thing is though, for everything that we have in common, there are also some very glaring differences, too."
"Everyone, fan and wrestler alike, knows the lengths that you have gone to become as good as you are in that ring. Great successes in places like Empire, the XWF, Ladies All-Star Wrestling, and Elysium can attest to the drive that you have to be the very best wrestler that you can be. And with all of that occurring in such a short span of time, it can be quite daunting for most when they view your resumé."
"Fortunately, Alan Wallace isn't 'most'."
"You see, while you have had to travel the world at a non-stop pace in order to make the name for yourself that you have, I was able to sit home for five years, and the clamor that fans had for a possible future return of Alan Wallace never wavered from a feverish pitch. While you have managed to beat the name 'Sarah Lacklan' into wrestling fans the world over due to your willingness to wrestle anywhere, all of those very same fans waited with baited breath for even the simplest of sightings of their hero, 'Vain' Alan Wallace. And when I decided to return after a five year absence, I was the talk of the entire wrestling industry for months."
"Or, about as long as you have been dominant since you returned from those horrific injuries that you suffered at the hands of a monster."
"Alan Wallace was the wrestling industry when he returned, and that hasn't changed in the past five years, no matter how much some of our peers wish to think that it has. Because for all of the bravado… for all of the promises… I back up the words that come out of my mouth one-hundred percent of the time."
"Can you say the same? Or, more precisely, could one of the 'Legion' say the same with a clear conscience, after you pay them to make the statement?"
"Ah yes, 'The Legion'. Another vast difference between the two of us, Sarah. I might be loath to admit it, but your social media presence is very, very impressive. Kudos for having a leg up in the social media realm. In a world where 'likes' and 'retweets' apparently define who we are as people, you have built a Twitter empire the likes of which the wrestling industry hasn't seen before. You are, truly, a Twitter champion."
"Unfortunately for you, that title is the only one that you will hold come Tuesday, Sarah. As a former friend of mine who is worlds better in the ring than you are would say… 'sorry, not sorry'."
"I don't need a huge social media presence, Sarah. I don't need a group of minions with an asinine name to post about how great I am when I step into that ring. And the fans that follow my career don't need me to have that social media presence. Why is that, you ask?"
"Because I never have to worry about the fans forgetting who I am, Sarah."
"I don’t have those worries Sarah, because whether they love me or hate me, wrestling fans around the world have invested in 'Vain' Alan Wallace. There is a connection between the fans and I that is unwavering, Sarah. And because of that fact, 'Yours Truly' doesn't have to have a team of minions post around the clock about me, in hopes that I'm not forgotten by the people that truly matter in this industry."
"The fans."
"It gets to you, doesn’t it, Sarah? You see Alan Wallace as a relic; an afterthought. You see Alan Wallace as a man who should step aside, allowing you to take the place at the top of the proverbial ladder that you feel you are owed. The place that your minions have posted incessantly about you attaining. You see Alan Wallace as a man who shows up when he wants… puts forth maximum effort when he wants… and walks away with his head held high every single night, and it kills you inside."
"It kills you inside because you wish it was you afforded those luxuries."
"Are you like most others, Sarah? Do you see Alan Wallace skate through his weeks without a care in the world, and do you share the opinion of everyone else within this godforsaken industry? Do you look down upon Alan Wallace because he willingly admits that the events of Synergy are of little concern to him? Do you share the opinions of people like Lockheart and Somers, who feel that Alan Wallace does not epitomize what it truly means to be called a champion in this business? Do you think that you are the one to show me the error of my ways, and leave me wallowing in my own self misery as you ascend atop the pedestal that I currently inhabit?"
"Fucking spare me, Sarah."
"You wish you were more like me, Sarah Lacklan."
"You wish you could willingly choose to step aside… to practically disappear altogether for months or even years… and still have the adulation of the entire world when you return to the limelight."
"You wish you could pick and choose your spots during the course of the year… choosing when to step aside and allow others the opportunity to shine… and then choose when to reinsert yourself into the mix, and show everyone just how far they have to go, just to be deemed worthy enough to lace your boots."
"You wish millions of fans would know your name, without having to pay people beneath you more than they are worth, just for keeping your name fresh in people's minds so that they do not forget."
"Unfortunately you will need more than wishful thinking on your side, if you hope to defeat me and take what is mine."
"Maybe prayer is what you need, Sarah? Maybe prayer is what will ultimately allow you to right all of the wrongs that you see when you look at someone like me, allowing you to ascend to the top of the pecking order within UGWC? Maybe your dear step-mother could help you if you have forgotten if you have forgotten how?"
"Sadly for you, I am the God that she prays to at nights, Sarah."
"And on Monday night, I smite the proverbial red-headed stepchild of my supposed greatest' vessel'."
"I do this, not out of maliciousness, but out of love. You see, I often quite enjoy watching all of the little children play, wondering which one will be the one to step up, and challenge the authority of their better. It seems that you, Sarah Lacklan, are the one that has been anointed as the one to attempt that feat."
"Pity, that."
"Because much like Icarus when he ventured too close to the sun, embarking on the journey that will lead you to your God will only lead to your disappointment; your humbling; and your demise. But unlike Icarus and the sun, I will not singe the wings of UGWC's resident bird, Sarah. No, no…"
"I will pluck them from you, one by one, until you fall back to the earth below, taking your rightful place amongst the rest of the cretins that are beneath 'Yours Truly'."
"You're welcome."
FIN
Vain confidently strides through the backstage area, smiling ear-to-ear as numerous UGWC employees cast looks his way ranging from confusion to disappointment. He pays them no mind, beginning to whistle the tune "I'm Sexy and I Know It", by LMFAO, as he confidently navigates the backstage corridors. Rounding the corner, he takes note of Simon Wellington standing against the far wall, his arms folded across his chest as he stands beside the entrance to Vain's locker room. Simon doesn't wait for him to approach.
"Would you mind telling me what is that you think you are doing?"
Alan stops for a moment, sparing a glance over his shoulder, before turning back and continuing towards his destination. As he nears his advocate, he replies.
"Well hello to you as well, Dear Simon. Lovely evening, isn't it?"
Providing a smile that can only be described as condescendingly mocking, he brushes past Simon, opening the door to his locker room and stepping inside. Simon is right behind him, shutting the door once he has stepped through the doorway.
"I'm serious, Alan. I cannot perform my duties to the levels that you require, if you keep me in the dark of what you are planning. You're handicapping my ability to serve you to the highest of my abilities."
Having approached the mini fridge and procured a VEEN water from within, Alan turns back towards Simon, as he begins un-screwing the cap from the bottle.
"I completely agree, Simon. One-hundred percent. Good talk."
Taking a gulp from the bottle, Vin replaces the cap, before grabbing a freshly laundered and folded white towel from the counter top. Wiping his face, he walks over and takes a seat on the black leather sofa that is positioned along the wall to his left. Simon sighs, apparently quite cognizant of the way this conversation is likely to go.
"I'm quite serious, Alan. What was that out there tonight?"
With a raise of his eyebrows, Alan leans back in his seat, crossing his right leg over his left as he looks up at Simon.
"Oh, that? That was just my way of telling Ms. Lacklan hello. Nothing more, nothing less."
Simon pinches the bridge of his nose between his forefinger and his thumb, eliciting another sigh in the process.
"While the sneak attack on Kenzi Grey is an issue we should discuss in detail at some point, that is not the event that I am speaking of, Alan. What happened with the Cross-Hemisphere Championship?"
Alan seems confused as he takes another drink from his water bottle.
"Why, whatever do you mean, Simon?"
"Alan, you effectively vacated a championship that many here view as being just as - if not more - prestigious than the UGWC World Championship. You don't feel that is something that we should have discussed beforehand, especially since you were a mere eight days away from breaking Phrixus Deimos' mark of total combined days holding that championship?"
Alan's confusion only grows deeper.
"Vacate? What are you talking about, Simon? I didn't vacate the championship. I merely offered the title belt up as motivation for Mr. Somers and Ms. Lockheart; a visual aid to ensure they are aware of what it is that they wish to attain, once they are finished assing about with impromptu, asinine, self-serving challenges."
"Alan, you tossed the title belt onto the ground, an act completely disrespectful to the lineage and history of that championship, I might add… and told them that if they wanted to fight over it, to knock themselves out. That you have 'a bigger match to prepare for'. To everyone who witnessed that travesty, it was obvious that you were vacating the championship."
"Incorrect, Simon. That would only be obvious to an idiot."
"Well, Robert Ooley seemed to agree."
"Well if that isn't concrete evidence of validation to my assessment, then I don't know what is. Then again, who gives a damn what Ooley thinks anyway? He's retired."
"For the love of all that is holy… do you not pay attention to anything going on around you? Your personal feelings towards Ooley aside, no Alan, he is not retired. He is still firmly entrenched as a member of 'The Consortium', and after witnessing the debacle that occurred here tonight, he has mandated that Magdalena Lockheart and Jet Somers will fight at Battleground, for the right to become the new UGWC Cross-Hemisphere Champion."
Alan springs to his feet, the vein in his forehead quite noticeable as he walks over towards Simon, glaring down at him.
"That is the most ludicrous thing I have ever heard. So now, because I want to ensure that our fans are given the single greatest World Championship Match of all time, I am once again being given the shaft regarding the Cross-Hemisphere Championship? What is it with the companies infatuation with screwing Alan Wallace out of C-H Title reigns that I have earned fairly and squarely since I've been here?"
"I'm sorry?"
"You heard what I said, Simon. I was quite clear. This isn't the first time that Robert Ooley has attempted to dick me out of holding that championship. Not quite four years ago, after I won Tournamental at Horizons 2013, Ooley stripped me of it over sheer and utter bullshit. Thankfully, Creative Director Damarest rectified that atrocity, and awarded me the title that I never lost in the first place a few weeks later. And what about winning Run of the Mill a year later at Horizons 2014, only to be told three months later that in order to be granted the World Title Match that I had rightfully earned through hard work and dedication, I would have to vacate the very C-H Title that I had gone through hell to win back in the first place? And then the farce of a triple threat match involving Travis Pierce and Jessica Mathis at Lord of Trios this past March, where I wasn't even pinned or made to submit, yet Travis Pierce still was allowed to call himself the UGWC Cross-Hemisphere Champion at the end of that night? And now tonight? This marks the fourth time that our establishment has gone out of their way to see to it that 'Vain' Alan Wallace is referred to as a former UGWC Cross-Hemisphere Champion, and quite frankly, I'm sick of the disrespect."
Simon holds his hands up in a defenseless position, doing his best to attempt to calm Alan down.
"Look Alan, I know that things haven't always seemed fair-"
"No Simon, you don't know a damned thing. You may have been a champion two decades ago, but you have no earthly idea what it is like to walk in my shoes. You have no idea what it is like to be the best that this industry has ever seen, and to have to continually prove so when everyone is against you. And you have no idea what it is like to be forced to bear witness to other, LESSER, people claim to be what you have rightfully earned!"
The now former Cross-Hemisphere Champion throws his water bottle across the room, before sticking his finger in Simon's face.
"Go. Now. Find Ooley, or Hastings, or Vines, and rectify this situation. And do not come back until you have my Cross-Hemisphere Championship in your possession!"
Alan turns and stomps away, grabbing his bag from the locker, and then disappearing around the corner, heading into the shower area. With a loud, defeated exhale, Simon turns and opens the locker room door, slowly shaking his head from side-to-side as he steps through and shuts the door behind him.
=======
Congratulations on another exceptional upcoming showing, Alan Wallace. I've stated in the past that I believed you would still be champion by Horizons, and that hasn't changed; nor has my belief that in a one-on-one affair between the two of us, that the match will end in my victory. First, however, I must contend with my opponents in the Battleground Match.
I know that my five opponents will give me everything that they have when we enter that cell in Columbus, Ohio. And aside from Konrad Raab, I know that each has the tools to emerge victorious in that match. However, I have serious doubt that any of them can stand toe-to-toe with Alan Wallace at the biggest spectacle of the year, and emerge as the new UGWC World Champion.
Just as I know those other competitors have serious doubts that I can do the same.
Everyone doubted me when I entered the Wrestlestock Open and competed in my initial matches here in UGWC. I proved them all wrong by winning that Wrestlestock Open, and being award the Wrestlestock Open Cup Trophy.
Everyone doubted me when I entered this past Massive Melee event, including Alan Wallace, and I proved them all wrong by winning that Massive Melee battle royal as well. And, fittingly, it was Alan Wallace who I eliminated last, in route to that victory. It was the single, greatest, most defining moment of my still young career. That, however, changes at Horizons, when I stand toe-to-toe against 'The Vain One' once more, and I emerge victorious once more.
Some would argue that there is the off chance that Sarah Lacklan could somehow do what Eden Morgan, Jet Somers, Lucy Wylde, Maggie Lockheart, Zane Scott, and even myself have failed to do since Wrestlestock - some of those on multiple occasions… and that is to defeat Alan Wallace in a match when it matters most. Having been in the ring with Sarah, I do not think that it is her time. Not now. Not here. The numbers simply do not add up.
21
The total number of opponents that Alan Wallace has defeated - many of them multiple times - since he defeated Klaus vonKnorre for the UGWC World Title at Massive Melee 2015.
10
The total number of matches, including that World Title Match against Klaus vonKnorre, that Alan Wallace has won with the World championship on the line.
0
The total number of wrestlers that have defeated Alan Wallace on their first attempt, when the UGWC World Championship has been on the line.
There has been nobody employed by UGWC that has been able to defeat Alan Wallace in their first attempt at wrestling the World Title from him. That is a very telling statistic, Sarah. Zero times has that happened, Sarah. And I do not believe that fact changes at Battleground. Fortunately, I have had the honor of facing him for that championship, when I was involved in the main event title match at this past Outlast.
That means I know what to expect, Sarah. Which raises the odds that when I meet Alan Wallace at Horizons, I will walk out as the new World Champion.
Now I know that statement will force you to channel your inner Holden Orson and scoff, but the numbers don't lie. They say that all wrestlers are created equal, Sarah, but when you look at me and you look at you, you can see that statement isn't true. Normally, if we are just comparing two wrestlers, each would have a fifty-fifty chance of making it to the Horizons Main Event. But I have already taken the best that you have to offer, and not only am I still standing, but I learned quite a bit from that experience. And that is to go along with what I learned by watching Alan during our match at Outlast. So that means that of the two of us, there is a twenty-five percent chance, at best, that you make it to the Horizons World Title Match instead of me. If you add in the fact that you have never faced Alan in a match, and all of the pressure that will entail, your chances of besting him at Battleground drastically go down. That means that of the three of us, you have a thirty-three and one-third percent chance of making it to the World Title Match at Horizons, but I have a sixty-six and two-thirds chance of not only making it to Horizons, but winning, because Alan Wallace knows that he cannot beat me again, and he likely will treat the match like it is a Synergy, and put in minimal effort.
So Sarah, if you take your thirty-three and one-third percent chance, and subtract my twenty-five percent chance, you have an eight and one-third percent chance of beating Alan at Battleground, and then going on and facing someone not named Kem Dynamo at Horizons. However, if you take my seventy-five percent chance of making it to the Horizons Main Event and add my sixty-six and two-thirds chance, if we were to go one-on-one, that means that I would have a one-hundred forty-one and two-thirds percent chance of beating you at Horizons.
Like I said, Sarah… the numbers don't lie… and they spell disaster for your chances to make it to the Horizons Main Event Match and emerge victorious. As Alan would say…
'You're Welcome'.
=======
Two days before the Battleground Match win. Columbus, Ohio. Saturday 27th September. (On camera)
It's a quiet afternoon with 'Konrad' sitting in the center of the UGWC ring, a 'marijuana' joint in hand as he thinks of how he would rather me in bed with Fizz or talking to Sebastian once he can get him to come home. 'Konrad' always prefers doing the usual father role because he enjoys it more than wrestling or playing soccer or even smoking marijuana but he knows that he loves wrestling and he knows that at Battleground he will become a great wrestler in the eyes of the UGWC fans.
'Konrad Raab': "I wish I could be home right now. I wish I could be with Fizz and Mattheus and Roderick. I wish I could save Sebastian's life. Those things are out of my control but what is in my control is winning the Battleground Match that I find myself placed into and going on to fight Vain at Horizons. It will be a hard fight as Kem and Travis and Phrixus and Zane and Le Bord are all great wrestlers, but I am a great wrestler too and I will prove that by beating them on Monday. And then I will fight Vain for the UGWC World Title and become the best wrestler in the world and will become a man my children can finally be proud of."
'Konrad' takes an inhale of his 'marijuana' joint and immediately begins coughing, bracing himself with his free hand so that he doesn't tumble over onto his side. The coughing finally subsides and 'Konrad' continues.
'Konrad': "Sarah Selena Lacklan-Grey is a great wrestler and will give Vain a great challenge but in the end Vain will win because he is what I aspire to one day be. Just like I will win the Battleground Match because it is what I aspire to do. And then when I face Vain at Horizons I will win because I am the best wrestler in the company even though Vain is great. And Kem and Zane and Travis and Phrixus and Le Bord and Sarah. But I am out to prove that I am great too and I can only do that by beating all those other great wrestlers and becoming the best great wrestler in UGWC."
'Konrad' looks at his 'marijuana' joint before flicking it out to the floor, and then proceeds to sit there in deep silence. This match is no laughing matter. This match is everything to 'Konrad'. More than soccer. More than Fizz and his kids even though they are very important too. More important. But this match is everything because it will mean 'Konrad' has finally made it and it will mean that 'Konrad' will now finally have respect.
'Konrad': "On Monday I beat five other great wrestlers and then at Horizons I beat the greatest wrestler in Vain. And then I will be the greatest wrestler anyone has ever seen and all fans will love me even more because they will know that I always did the right thing to get where I am to achieve success as a wrestler in this company."
=======
Tuesday, October 23, 2018 - Miami, Florida: Wallace/Worth Estate
"I understand your frustrations, Alan, but you have to find a way to put this behind you. You have a match with Sarah coming up that requires you to stay focused. Unless, of course, you have chosen to become a former UGWC World Champion as well?"
Seated at the foot of the bed and leaning forward with his forearms resting on his knees, Alan suddenly sits straight up, looking across the room at Celeste, as she finishes drying off from her shower.
"Of course not! Being the UGWC World Champion means more to me than just about anything else in the world-"
Celeste cuts him a look, which he immediately notices, causing his demeanor to slightly soften.
"Presently company excluded, obviously, my dear."
"Mm-hmm…"
Celeste rolls her eyes as she turns and hangs the towel up on the hook, before grabbing her brush and beginning to fix up her hair. Alan continues.
"As I was saying, being the UGWC World Champion means more to me in my professional life than just about anything else. The thing is, when I hold the Cross-Hemisphere Championship, I put that title on the same pedestal as I do the World Championship. Which means that each title is viewed by the masses as being just as important as the other. That same viewpoint doesn't hold true when Alan Wallace doesn't hold the Cross-Hemisphere Championship, and the history of that title is only further diminished by how it came to be that I am now considered a former Cross-Hemisphere Champion."
Celeste eases her perfectly sculpted frame into a plush, white bathrobe, and then turns out the bathroom light and casually strolls across the bedroom. Reaching the bed, she takes a seat beside of her fiancé, gently patting him on the leg as he looks into her eyes.
"Simon texted your earlier today, did he not? And did he not tell you that he had another meeting scheduled with The Consortium tomorrow morning?"
Vain nods, yet says nothing.
"Then I am sure he will get to the bottom of things, and have good news for you soon. You are worrying yourself over something that, currently, is beyond your control. Besides…"
She leans over and gives him a soft kiss on the neck, before slowly moving her mouth towards his ear and whispering softly into it.
"Everyone knows that, Cross-Hemisphere Champion in name or not, that you are the true holder of that title. And it isn't like a match with you isn't more important than competing for a championship anyway. And those that bellow otherwise are liars."
For the first time, Alan smiles.
"Well yes, obviously."
"Good. Then what say we go to bed now, and you focus on your World Title Match starting tomorrow. Right now, it's time that you defend another title that I know you are extremely proud of…"
She slowly rises to her feet, maneuvering the robe over her shoulders so that he falls silently to the floor, and stands there in stark nakedness, as a grin forms on the face of Alan Wallace. Reaching down, she grabs his hand and pulls him to his feet, and the two of them make their way to the side of the bed, Celeste beginning to help Alan out of his clothes.
=======
I question if you have noticed me, Mister Wallace.
Much like Mister Pierce, you are quite an odd bird, Sir. The way in which you destroy your enemies, both physically as well as emotionally and mentally, is a sight to behold. Unfortunately those qualities of yours only seem to occur approximately once a month, and you spend the rest of your time being distracted by that which is inconsequential, causing you to lose focus on what is truly important.
Pride is one of the most wretched sins of Almighty God, Mister Wallace. Proverbs 16:18 tells us 'Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall'. And I am the humble servant that has been chosen by the Almighty God to harken that fall, Mister Wallace.
Please allow me to humble you, Mister Wallace. For it is God's will; therefore, it is my purpose.
The Lord's will allowed His chosen vessel to reclaim her title of Champion of Chaos when I disposed of Mister Pierce two weeks ago, and it will be the Lord's will that allows me to take my rightful place in the Horizons Main Event, where Almighty God has seen to it that it will be His beloved servant that will perform a true miracle in His name, when I humble 'Vanity at its Finest'.
I am the Champion of Chaos. In due time, I will be the newly coronated Champion of the World. I am the Queen of Red. And you are destined to face me in ALL of my glory.
Long live the Queen.
=======
October 25Who truly is Alan Wallace?
Long ago, he was a man living off of past achievements, as he found himself mired in meaningless feuds with men named King and Brady. That Alan Wallace, while boastful, found little in the way of reclaiming the past successes that he chose to endlessly prattle on about. That Alan Wallace, while talented, had chosen to end a lengthy respite from in-ring competition, and undoubtedly found himself questioning whether he had made the best decision at his disposal at the time. That Alan Wallace was a far cry from what he would ultimately become.
Or is he still one and the same?
Alan Wallace has, no doubt, experienced a multitude of successes during his tenure with UGWC. Some of the successes have come at my expense. However, he has become as synonymous with his multitude of ebbs and flows, just as he is with the arrogance in which he carries himself.
Alan Wallace can claim that he can be a champion for as long as he wishes, based merely off of his self-anointed skill, as much as he wishes to stake the claim. Alan Wallace can claim that others experienced their greatest of successes based solely off of his decisions to take a step back, if he so chooses. Alan Wallace can continue living in the bubble that he has built for himself, ever since he first appeared on the Global-Tron at Wrestlestock 2013.
Because Alan Wallace is a fool.
I have been here since before UGWC, and before the Alan Wallace's of the world showed their true colors to the masses, and began invalidating all of the things that his predecessors - myself included - built. And I will be here long after the star of someone like Alan Wallace begins to fizzle out.
I begin that process at Horizons.
I care not for titles at this point, because I have held many throughout my career. And I have carried each with the respect and dignity that they deserve, and never have I treated a championship so callously as to simply throw it on the ground due to not wanting to be forced to defend it. The fact that Alan Wallace chose to do so with the championship that I have a soft spot in my heart for?
You have my attention once more, Alan.
World Title or not, at Horizons it WILL be Alan Wallace and Phrixus Deimos in the ring together. And on that night, we answer the biggest question of all.
Who IS Alan Wallace, really?
=======
Thursday, October 25, 2018 - Miami, Florida: Wallace/Worth Estate
"I'm sorry, Alan. I tried. I really did. The Consortium didn't want to hear it."
Alan hangs his head in silence, mindlessly twiddling his thumbs as he sits at the dining room table. Celeste stands behind her man, lightly tapping his shoulders as she looks across at Simon Wellington.
"It's quite alright, Simon. I know that you tried your best, as does Alan."
Vain says nothing, still staring down at the table.
"I plan to call again tomorrow, to see if I can talk some sense into someone up there, but with Battleground fast approaching, I fear my actions might be in vain. No pun intended, obviously."
The last remark elicits a chuckle from Vain, immediately putting Simon slightly more at ease. Wallace finally raises his head, looking across the table at Simon.
"It's alright, Simon. There is no need to take that action."
Simon doesn't know what to say, a fact that Celeste takes note of.
"Are you sure of that, baby? Simon doesn't mind. Isn't that right, Mr. Wellington?"
The look that Celeste casts his way is a mixture of disappointment and anger. It is like a slap in the face to Simon Wellington, who subconsciously slightly recoils from its impact. Immediately righting himself, he looks back down at Alan.
"She is absolutely correct, Alan. I really don't mind. I honestly think if I can have a one-on-one conversation with Dexter, I can begin to make some headwa-"
Alan raises his hand, causing Simon to stop speaking mid-sentence.
"It isn't a fight that is worth having at this point, Simon. I appreciate your efforts to date, but Celeste was right a few days ago. I need to focus on my World Title Match with Sarah Lacklan. We can revisit this Cross-Hemisphere Championship debacle once I have put 'The Matron of Pigeons' back in her place."
"Ok, Alan. Sounds like a plan."
Simon looks back up at Celeste, her glare still firmly entrenched, just as it was a few moments ago. Speaking through gritted teeth, she addresses Alan's friend and advocate.
"Thank you, Simon. That will be all. I assume you can let yourself out?"
It was more statement than fact. Hell, it was a statement of fact, and insight into what she wanted Simon to do. Leave. He had no intention of pressing the issue.
"You're welcome, Ms. Worth. Alan, I will meet you here tomorrow, so that we might fly out to Columbus."
Alan nods at him, and then Simon makes his exit, the sound of the main entryway door shutting as he leaves. Celeste moves around and takes a seat next to Alan.
"Focus on what is immediately in front of you, Alan. Rectify that abomination after you prove your dominance over Sarah Lacklan."
"If, Celeste. If."
Celeste is appalled at the remark, and she makes it known.
"The word 'if' never needs to be a part of your vocabulary, Alan Wallace. You are better than 'if'; you only concentrate on 'when'. 'When' you extinguish the self-proclaimed 'Firestarter', you celebrate your 'win' by reclaiming the Cross-Hemisphere Championship that you never lost. Do you hear me, Alan Wallace?"
Alan doesn't get a chance to respond, as their conversation is interrupted by everyone's beloved Crusader, who appears from the darkened hallway, sticking his head into the dining room and speaking.
Cynric: Your fair maiden is most correct, my charming yet nefarious prince. The quarrel that awaits you is most great, alas, there is no room for uncertainty. Will your 'win' to happen, for it is only 'when' you are confident in your own abilities, that you will achieve your greatest of goals. For there is a quest at Battleground that must be completed, and your lovely Quest Giver has demanded it. Do it for Azeroth!
Cynric disappears into the darkness as quickly as he appeared, causing Alan to look back over at Celeste.
"We're never getting rid of him, are we?"
"I don't know about you, babe, but he's beginning to grow on me."
She laughs, causing Vain to smile, as she reaches over and takes his hand in hers.
=======
'Cartwright': Are you sure about this?
'Travis' nods.
'Pierce': It is high time that I got back to what it is that I do best.
'Cartwright': I couldn't agree more.
Travis nods again.
'Pierce': And seeing as how being Jet Somers' sidekick currently isn't on the table, what better time to dust off the program that all three of my fans have clamored for the return of for months?
'Cartwright': I'm sorry?
'Pierce': Let's get this started.
Cartwright sighs and shakes his head, but picks up a microphone in order to address the empty arena.
'Cartwright': Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to a special empty-arena version of The Piercing Truth! Please welcome your host, the Icon of Entertainment, the King of Charisma, TRAVIS PIERCE!!!
Travis walks into the ring and takes a seat in the director chair that rests in the center.
'Pierce': Thank you, Rob, and welcome to The Piercing Truth!
'Cartwright' once more looks out at the empty arena, sadly shaking his head back and forth again, before backing into the corner and standing there.
'Pierce': This is a special edition of The Piercing Truth, one that I would not be hosting were it not for the importance of the upcoming Battleground Match that I will be winning on Monday. You see, it isn't that my opponents aren't perfectly capable of winning our match and going on to fight for the World Title, even though we all know they aren't.
Crickets
'Pierce': It isn't even about 'Vain' Alan Wallace being the single greatest entertainment professional to ever grace this industry with his presence, even though we all know that he is.
More crickets. Hopefully they're cleaned out by show time.
'Pierce': What this is about is Icon versus Icon; Conglomerate versus Conglomerate; Entity versus Entity.
The silence is broken by the sound of 'Cartwright' coughing.
'Pierce': That was rude.
'Cartwright': I apologize. We can splice that part out when we edit.
'Pierce' covers up the mouthpiece to the headset that he is wearing.
'Pierce': You mean this isn't live?
'Cartwright' looks out at the empty arena for a few moments, before turning back towards 'Pierce'.
'Cartwright': Do you really want it to be?
'Pierce' sighs, before shaking his head negative.
'Pierce': Pierce versus Wallace is the only match that makes sense for Horizons. Pierce versus Wallace is the only match worth headlining Horizons. And Pierce versus Wallace is the only match where losing a match is a perfectly acceptable consolation prize for Travis Pierce, because facing Alan Wallace at Horizons would finish off the bucket list that I made for myself when I first entered this industry. And that's The Piercing Truth!"
'Pierce' takes the headset off and flings it to the side. 'Cartwright' looks at him in confusion.
'Cartwright': Really? That's it?
'Pierce': What can I tell you, 'Rob'? I finally came to the realization that I really have nothing to say of consequence. Never have.
'Rob' doesn't answer, as Travis exits the ring and walks up the ramp.
=======
Why has Donovan given me the opportunity to do something that I haven't earned? To earn something that I do not deserve?
Does he not realize how worthless I am?
Placing me into the Battleground Match is akin to leading the proverbial lamb to slaughter. I stand no chance in winning that match, much like Larry stood no chance in his match against Phrix. So why provide me the opportunity?
Is it to further deepen the disgust that I have of myself, and further deepen the despair that I find myself mired in?
Or is there more to it than that?
Would it be nice to win Battleground, and possibly move on to face Alan for the World Title at Horizons? Of course it would be, but I have done nothing to prove that I am worthy of such an outcome.
I've done nothing to prove that I currently even belong in the same arena as Alan, much less the same ring.
So Battleground will be one more night filled with misery. One more night filled with disgust. One more night filled will despair. One more night filled with pain.
I deserve nothing less.
My own actions and inactions have set me forth on this path. The only thing that now matters is that I must see it through to the end, because quite frankly, there is nothing that I deserve more.
Nothing.
=======
Sunday, October 28, 2018 - Columbus, Ohio: Nationwide Arena - Night Before Battleground
A lone spotlight kicks on, illuminating only the center of the ring. Laid out neatly on the mat are multiple items of interest.
- An exact replica of Kem Dynamo's wrestling attire, complete with dark wig, and extra padding.
- A blue and white luchador mask, complete with golden feathers adorning the sides
- The Holy Bible, King James Edition
- A Journal
- A director's chair
- A Zane Scott Halloween mask, complete with forlorn expression and painted on tears running down the cheeks
Two figures are then shown moving in the darkness out on the floor, the first figure noticeably taller rand broader than the second. The two figures ascend the ring steps, each figure walking in a different direction on the ring apron, before stepping through the ropes and entering the ring. The first figure steps into the spotlight, revealing himself to be the reigning and defending UGWC Heavyweight Champion of the World, 'Vain' Alan Wallace; the second figure, sporting an outfit that makes him look eerily just like Rob Cartwright, is Vain's advocate and friend, Simon 'The Scholar' Wellington.
Simon stands leaning against the ropes in behind the items that litter the ring, as Vain slowly walks around them, coming to a momentary stop in front of each one of them, before finally turning and looking into the camera. Bringing a microphone to his lips, he begins to speak.
"Some of you might be wondering why I would take the time to mock each entertainment professional that will find themselves competing in the Battleground Match main event tomorrow night, when I may not even still be the champion by the time that match starts. Some of you might be wondering why I would choose to seemingly ignore my opponent for tomorrow night, before what will definitely be the biggest match that I have had in quite some time. Some of you might be wondering, frankly, why for the bulk of this week, I have chosen to treat my upcoming match with Sarah Lacklan much like I would treat an episode of UGWC Synergy, which you can watch every Monday night on the UGWC Network for the low, low price of free-ninety-nine a month."
"Worry not, peons, for your World Champion hasn't yet forgotten what is most important."
"You see, it took quite the minimal effort to make light of those six individuals because, quite honestly, that's the amount of effort I would expect to exert should I meet any of those six in the main event at Horizons to close out the year. And, maybe it's a bit egotistical of me to say so, but nobody in their right mind wants 'Vain' Alan Wallace to defend his UGWC World Championship against a single, solitary one of them at our biggest show of the year."
"Nobody who doesn't count calories wants to see 'Vain' Alan Wallace defeat Kem Dynamo again, when we aren't that far removed from him doing so during the Outlast Main Event a mere one month ago."
"Nobody who believes in the grammatical system wants to see 'Vain' Alan Wallace emasculate Konrad Raab in the center of the ring at Horizons, when the biggest opponent that Mr. Raab needs to somehow find a way to defeat is the one known as the English language."
"Nobody not named Necron wants to see Le Bord de Dieu fail her Lord and Savior at Horizons, and ultimately be smited for all of her failures and transgressions in the center of the ring for all to see."
"Nobody who chooses not to keep a diary wants to see Phrixus Deimos have a repeat performance of what occurred at Kobayashi Maru back in 2015, when not only was he forced to admit that I was the better man, but was also forced to watch me perfect the very gimmick that he has brought shame to for the duration of his career."
"Nobody, outside of the three fans of his who are obviously from one single limb of their family tree, wants to see Travis Pierce bring his B-List mentality into a match that he will ultimately lose, which would then force him to join Gabrielle Montgomery in the 'hardcore' genre of adult entertainment."
"Nobody not named Donovan Hastings wants to see Zane Scott sent further into the downward spiral that he currently is embarking upon, leading to him becoming homeless, and becoming the 2018 version of hobo Dirge."
"What everyone wants to see at Horizons… what everyone needs to see at Horizons… is the match that for whatever reason was moved up to tomorrow night: Sarah Selena Lacklan-Grey versus 'Vain' Alan Wallace. Alas, apparently we do not always get what we want."
"You should probably get used to that feeling, Sarah. It will make what happens in twenty-four hours all the more bearable for you."
"Now I won't stand here and proclaim that I know everything there is to know about Sarah Lacklan. I won't pretend to know what it is like to wrestle for multiple companies simultaneously, logging as many miles as you have so far during your young career, all in an attempt to make a name for yourself. I won't pretend to know what it is like to be kidnapped in the manner that you were, suffer the injuries that you suffered, and suddenly begin to question not if you will ever wrestle again… but if you will even be able to walk again. I won't pretend to know what it is like to somehow make such a grand return, do everything that you are supposed to do in order to become as big of a star as possible, only to realize that no matter how hard you try, you will still be eclipsed by someone far and away better than you."
"Pardon me if I do not apologize. I could feign it, but we both know that I wouldn't mean it."
"Then again, you know that already, don't you Sarah? Because the similarities between the two of us are quite striking, I must admit."
"We both proclaim to be the best in this business? Check."
"We both are known to be extremely confident in our abilities, regardless of the odds that are stacked against us? Check."
"We both win far more than we lose, especially when it matters most? Check."
"We both are fairly easy on the eyes, as everyone who knows us can attest? Check."
"We both feel that we are the one to lead this great industry into the new year? Check."
"Quite honestly Sarah, when I look at everything that you bring to this industry, I can't help but feel that I am looking at myself. A female, miniature version, of course, but myself nonetheless. The thing is though, for everything that we have in common, there are also some very glaring differences, too."
"Everyone, fan and wrestler alike, knows the lengths that you have gone to become as good as you are in that ring. Great successes in places like Empire, the XWF, Ladies All-Star Wrestling, and Elysium can attest to the drive that you have to be the very best wrestler that you can be. And with all of that occurring in such a short span of time, it can be quite daunting for most when they view your resumé."
"Fortunately, Alan Wallace isn't 'most'."
"You see, while you have had to travel the world at a non-stop pace in order to make the name for yourself that you have, I was able to sit home for five years, and the clamor that fans had for a possible future return of Alan Wallace never wavered from a feverish pitch. While you have managed to beat the name 'Sarah Lacklan' into wrestling fans the world over due to your willingness to wrestle anywhere, all of those very same fans waited with baited breath for even the simplest of sightings of their hero, 'Vain' Alan Wallace. And when I decided to return after a five year absence, I was the talk of the entire wrestling industry for months."
"Or, about as long as you have been dominant since you returned from those horrific injuries that you suffered at the hands of a monster."
"Alan Wallace was the wrestling industry when he returned, and that hasn't changed in the past five years, no matter how much some of our peers wish to think that it has. Because for all of the bravado… for all of the promises… I back up the words that come out of my mouth one-hundred percent of the time."
"Can you say the same? Or, more precisely, could one of the 'Legion' say the same with a clear conscience, after you pay them to make the statement?"
"Ah yes, 'The Legion'. Another vast difference between the two of us, Sarah. I might be loath to admit it, but your social media presence is very, very impressive. Kudos for having a leg up in the social media realm. In a world where 'likes' and 'retweets' apparently define who we are as people, you have built a Twitter empire the likes of which the wrestling industry hasn't seen before. You are, truly, a Twitter champion."
"Unfortunately for you, that title is the only one that you will hold come Tuesday, Sarah. As a former friend of mine who is worlds better in the ring than you are would say… 'sorry, not sorry'."
"I don't need a huge social media presence, Sarah. I don't need a group of minions with an asinine name to post about how great I am when I step into that ring. And the fans that follow my career don't need me to have that social media presence. Why is that, you ask?"
"Because I never have to worry about the fans forgetting who I am, Sarah."
"I don’t have those worries Sarah, because whether they love me or hate me, wrestling fans around the world have invested in 'Vain' Alan Wallace. There is a connection between the fans and I that is unwavering, Sarah. And because of that fact, 'Yours Truly' doesn't have to have a team of minions post around the clock about me, in hopes that I'm not forgotten by the people that truly matter in this industry."
"The fans."
"It gets to you, doesn’t it, Sarah? You see Alan Wallace as a relic; an afterthought. You see Alan Wallace as a man who should step aside, allowing you to take the place at the top of the proverbial ladder that you feel you are owed. The place that your minions have posted incessantly about you attaining. You see Alan Wallace as a man who shows up when he wants… puts forth maximum effort when he wants… and walks away with his head held high every single night, and it kills you inside."
"It kills you inside because you wish it was you afforded those luxuries."
"Are you like most others, Sarah? Do you see Alan Wallace skate through his weeks without a care in the world, and do you share the opinion of everyone else within this godforsaken industry? Do you look down upon Alan Wallace because he willingly admits that the events of Synergy are of little concern to him? Do you share the opinions of people like Lockheart and Somers, who feel that Alan Wallace does not epitomize what it truly means to be called a champion in this business? Do you think that you are the one to show me the error of my ways, and leave me wallowing in my own self misery as you ascend atop the pedestal that I currently inhabit?"
"Fucking spare me, Sarah."
"You wish you were more like me, Sarah Lacklan."
"You wish you could willingly choose to step aside… to practically disappear altogether for months or even years… and still have the adulation of the entire world when you return to the limelight."
"You wish you could pick and choose your spots during the course of the year… choosing when to step aside and allow others the opportunity to shine… and then choose when to reinsert yourself into the mix, and show everyone just how far they have to go, just to be deemed worthy enough to lace your boots."
"You wish millions of fans would know your name, without having to pay people beneath you more than they are worth, just for keeping your name fresh in people's minds so that they do not forget."
"Unfortunately you will need more than wishful thinking on your side, if you hope to defeat me and take what is mine."
"Maybe prayer is what you need, Sarah? Maybe prayer is what will ultimately allow you to right all of the wrongs that you see when you look at someone like me, allowing you to ascend to the top of the pecking order within UGWC? Maybe your dear step-mother could help you if you have forgotten if you have forgotten how?"
"Sadly for you, I am the God that she prays to at nights, Sarah."
"And on Monday night, I smite the proverbial red-headed stepchild of my supposed greatest' vessel'."
"I do this, not out of maliciousness, but out of love. You see, I often quite enjoy watching all of the little children play, wondering which one will be the one to step up, and challenge the authority of their better. It seems that you, Sarah Lacklan, are the one that has been anointed as the one to attempt that feat."
"Pity, that."
"Because much like Icarus when he ventured too close to the sun, embarking on the journey that will lead you to your God will only lead to your disappointment; your humbling; and your demise. But unlike Icarus and the sun, I will not singe the wings of UGWC's resident bird, Sarah. No, no…"
"I will pluck them from you, one by one, until you fall back to the earth below, taking your rightful place amongst the rest of the cretins that are beneath 'Yours Truly'."
"You're welcome."
FIN