Post by TheSyndicate on Jul 7, 2024 18:11:00 GMT -5
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
Alan leans up against the east wall of a small building erected at the beginning of the festival grounds. Staring out at the bustling going on before him - from fans who have made the journey all this way in an attempt to enjoy every single second of the spectacle known as WrestleStock, to employees of each and every district running back and forth to ensure things are just right - he smiles.
Alan: Hard to believe that it's been almost one-year since I delighted fans around the globe with my shocking return to this very event. Time flies when you're having fun, I suppose.
His friend and advocate, Simon Wellington, begins to chuckle as he hears the utterance, clapping Alan on the shoulder as he comes to a stop next to him.
Simon: And why wouldn't you be having as much fun as you've ever had? Keymaster… another Battleground victory… reigning World Champion. It's almost as if you never left.
Alan: What can I say, Simon… I try.
Simon: I'm aware. And it is in that vein that I ask… why are you out here allowing the sun to beat down on you? You realize that you have a huge UGWC World Heavyweight Championship match to prepare for this coming Sunday, yes?
Alan glances over at him and smiles.
Alan: I've heard a little bit about that, yes.
Simon: Then rest and hydration, Alan. Those are the orders for this week. This Arizona heat will catch up to you quickly if you aren't careful.
Alan nods as he turns his head and gazes out upon the scene before him once more.
Alan: Look, I get it, Simon. Truly. But two things…
Simon: Yes?
Alan: Number one, it's been more than a few years since I've really been able to enjoy this festival in its entirety. Sure, I appeared at this event last year, but that was a last-minute surprise that didn't allow me to experience the full scope that is 'WrestleStock Week'.
Simon nods.
Simon: And the second thing?
Alan: The UGWC World Championship isn't the only title that I plan on leaving Arizona with, Simon.
Simon: Which is even more reason to make sure you get the proper amount of rest, Alan. Two matches… two championship matches in three days, in this heat? You have to be exceedingly careful this week, Alan.
Alan: I know.
Simon: Even still, at the end of the day…
Simon trails off, and after a moment, Alan looks back over at him.
Alan: At the end of the day, what?
Simon turns to fully face his client.
Simon: At the end of the day, the UGWC World Heavyweight Championship is the ultimate prize, Alan. It is the championship that you must concern yourself with over all else.
Alan sighs as he pushes himself off of the wall that he has been leaning against, and turns towards Simon.
Alan: Look Simon, the UGWC World Heavyweight Championship means more than anything to me that isn't named Celeste or Presley. I think everyone is keenly aware of that fact. Thing is? The UGWC Cooperative Championship isn't far behind that. It is the championship that I have had even greater success with than I have the World Title that means so much to me. And it's a title that I haven't had the pleasure of holding in almost four years, ever since Travis and I lost them to Eden Morgan and Gabriel Baal at Horizons. Winning them with Mr. Scott this week will tie me with Mr. Somers for the most reigns in UGWC history, which will add yet another accolade to the ever-growing resume that is 'Vain' Alan Wallace.
Simon attempts to speak, but Alan interrupts him.
Alan: And winning them will grant Mr. Scott his fourth reign as UGWC Cooperative Champion. And in the process, we can also damage the psyche of both Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce leading into those other championship matches later in the week. It's a perfect storm.
Simon: Just so long as the two of you can manage success later in the week, yes.
Alan: And don't think that isn't the plan, Simon. Don't get me wrong, I take nothing away from the two of them. Lucy Wylde and Sebastian Everett-Bryce are two of the best entertainment professionals to ever step foot into a wrestling ring, and they have both won just about every championship possible. They are future first-ballot Hall of Famers, no doubt. And in their current Cooperative Championship reign, they've barely even been challenged. It's gotten to the point where they're almost just going through the motions, so to speak. And in my humble opinion, it's high time that we have champions that truly value those Cooperative titles.
Simon: And Zane and yourself are the two to do that? In your humble opinion?
Alan smiles.
Alan: Well the two of us were the backbone of The Syndicate all those years ago. It makes sense for the two of us to be the backbone of the Cooperative division moving forward, doesn't it?
Simon nods as he takes a few steps in front of Alan, looking back over his shoulder.
Simon: Then I shall attempt to find Zane and see when a good time will be to discuss strategy.
Alan nods, watching as Simon makes his way through the festival grounds. He smiles.
Alan: It's time we make them remember just who we are…
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Somewhere deep in the bowels of the festival grounds, Zane Scott is seated backwards on an old, wooden chair. Before him is a full-length mirror, a crack at the top that extends three-quarters of the way down the middle of the glass. He glares into his reflection, his gaze almost staring through it.
"Legacy. It’s a futile attempt at leaving something worthwhile behind once the body breaks down to the point where it can’t go anymore."
He maneuvers his head back and forth, the sound of his neck cracking echoing throughout the cool, dank room that he finds himself in.
"Everything that I can give in this industry, I have left in that ring. Not only the litany of injuries and setbacks, but all of the triumphs as well. Triumphs that I intend to add to this week."
He lowers his head, staring down at the floor.
“I know that Seb and Lucy, and people like them, love to stand on high and pontificate to everyone about how their accomplishments ought to be lauded as if they changed the world, and I’ll give credit where it’s due, both Seb and Lucy have had Hall of Fame careers. Sebastian’s two-year Chaos Championship reign may never be surpassed and while I’m man enough to admit that, we’ve seen that you, Sebastian, are not man enough to reciprocate that credit to Alan and me.”
He smiles.
“I won’t sit here and say that I’ve never done that. Obviously I have, many, many times. “
“There’s a problem with that, which apparently our two great saviors haven’t considered,” he explains, chuckling.
“If we’re nothing and you beat us…”
He smirks.
“What value does that place on your victory?”
He shrugs suggestively.
“What does it make you?”
He emphasizes “you,” letting the silence after it hang in the air for a few moments.
“Sebastian, you can move the goalposts regarding my accomplishments all you want. The simple fact is that I’ve accomplished them, and in this era of UGWC, they’re the standard, not the exception. In your mind, I’m sure that you believe that you could beat Moss Edwards's record for the single longest reign and you base that on your aforementioned reign as Chaos Champion. If I were in your position, I’d certainly be inclined to believe that, too. It’s not completely irrational.”
He turns back to the mirror, pointing at it.
“But it is arrogant.”
He gestures to a miniature Falcor that sits next to him on a small table.
“It’s also incredibly foolish.”
He rests his arms on the chair.
“Perhaps, and I’m only spitballing here from one accomplished professional to another here, that’s why the best you’ve managed to accomplish lately is a flaccid CoOperative Championship reign with Lucy.”
“I’m sure that you find my use of ‘flaccid’ a bit insulting,” he continues. “But it’s no more insulting than you insisting that my reign as Cross-Hemisphere Championship is meaningless for all of these arbitrary reasons that you pulled out of your ass. Be honest about this for once, Sebastian, what’ve you actually accomplished in the Cross-Hemisphere Division?”
He angles his head ever so slightly, pulls out his phone, and looks at it. He taps his finger on the chair arm.
He looks up at the camera and then back down at his phone. Suddenly, an image pops onto the screen.
He keeps looking from his camera to his phone and back again. He continues tapping his fingers.
Another image pops up.
He smiles widely.
“Jokes aside, your record in the Cross-Hemisphere Division pales in comparison to mine.”
“It’s not even close, but I’ll address that when I talk to you and Donnie later.”
“The simple fact is that I’m the modern standard for a Cross-Hemisphere Champion.”
He stands up.
“And your fragile ego can’t handle that.”
He sighs, then laughs.
“Lest you feel left out, Luce, the simple fact is that the last time we faced each other for a championship, you beat me. I gave you your plaudits for that victory. I always give you credit for your talents and accomplishments.”
He shakes his head.
“If you’re still mad at me for everything I did years ago, I don’t really know what to tell you. I know it’s easier for you to blindly hate me and incessantly belittle me and what I’ve accomplished while calling me ‘boring.’ I know that’s as comfortable to you as the feeling of Rogan’s chest against your head.”
“I get it. We all get it. You don’t like me.”
He shrugs.
“ I just can’t find the effort to care.”
He spins his phone against the table.
“In terms of time, your current run as CoOperative Champion has been impressive. One hundred and ninety-six days is no small feet. It’s not as impressive as either of my last two runs as Cross-Hemisphere Champion, but you’re getting there kid.”
He laughs.
“I bet it’s really going to chap your ass when Alan and I bring that screeching to a halt.”
“But I’ll leave that for later.”
A devilish smile spreads across his face.
“I can’t help but wonder if there isn’t a small part of you that isn’t bothered by the fact that your last run as World Champion was ended by your ‘bestie.’ Your current CoOperative partner. Good old Sebastian.”
He stands up.
“Think about it. Sebastian will always put Sebastian first.”
He pulls up a toy sword and makes a throat-cutting gesture with it.
“Don’t be surprised if he turns on you when this run ends. Don’t be surprised if he blames you for the loss, because it sure as hell won’t be his fault, even if he’s the one we pin.”
“He’ll blame you.”
He drives the sword between the slats in the table before he gives it a sharp twist and snaps the plastic blade in half.
"This week isn't just about winning the Cooperative Titles or reclaiming the Cross-Hemisphere Title that I never should’ve lost in the first place. It isn't even about proving to Lucy and Seb that I'm still one of the most feared people in this sport, regardless of what their personal feelings are towards me. And it isn't even about proving that Alan and I have no equals when we set our minds to it. Simply put, this week is about proving to myself that I still have what it takes to be the Personification of Pain".
Slowly, he raises his head back up, glaring back into the broken glass in front of him.
"Step one is to take the Cooperative Titles with Alan. Step two is to take back what's mine in the Cross-Hemisphere Title. It's all within reach. And your broken bodies will litter the festival grounds when it's all said and done."
Thursday, July 11, 2024
Alan: This has become something of a regular occurrence, Mr. Scott.
Alan walks into the room, water bottle in hand, and takes a seat. Zane doesn’t bother turning around to greet his sometimes friend, sometimes rival.
Alan: As much as it was quite the surprise to hear that I would be involved in the Cooperative Championship match this week, I would be remiss if I didn’t say that of everyone on the roster, I am glad that it is you who I am teaming up with.
He unscrews the cap from his bottle.
Alan: Even if you may not feel the same way.
Taking a long drink from his VEEN - which is still somehow perfectly chilled in Arizona in July - he then slowly screws the cap back on.
“And why would I not feel the same, Alan? It isn’t as if teaming with you is something I haven’t done multiple times over the years. I’m likely the only person on the active roster who is able to stomach all of your… quirks.”
Alan smiles as Zane finally turns towards him.
Alan: I would venture to assume that is indeed the case, Mr. Scott. I just meant with recent history, maybe teaming with ‘Yours Truly’ wouldn’t have been at the top of your bucket list for 2024. At least not right now.
Zane glares at him in silence, then shrugs before relaxing. The smile never leaves Alan’s face.
Alan: I mean, we were the last two standing at Keeper of the Keys, and then we were the last two standing at Battleground. I would hope that you wouldn’t hold the end result of those two events against me, Mr. Scott.
“I don’t. You were the better man those nights. I wasn’t expecting to be in that match at 'Battleground', let alone being the one to come closest to actually beating you. No one thought I had a chance to survive that long and I did. I’ve never felt any shame in losing to you. We were the backbone of ‘The Syndicate.’ You and Killian are still one of the greatest cooperative teams in the history of the business. I’m not happy that I lost at ‘Battleground,’ but at least it was to you. I hold no hard feelings toward you for that.”
Alan leans forward and nods, before then looking back up at Zane.
Alan: I appreciate that more than you know, Mr. Scott.
Zane smiles and winks.
“That doesn’t mean I don’t want another shot at you,” he states. “That was the most fun I’ve had in a match in a long time.”
Alan nods again, his smile faltering, albeit only slightly.
Alan: And it would be an honor to defend against you, Mr. Scott. Assuming that I can manage to retain here this week, maybe we can look towards that in the near future. Though… when we emerge victorious against Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce, it may make things a bit… awkward.
“We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it. For now, let’s liberate the cooperative championships from this laughable reign. Also, while I’m not suspecting any shenanigans in your match with Lucy, I’ll be watching in the back. If anyone gets any funny ideas, I’ll come down and…dissuade them from their course.”
Alan: Sounds good to me, Mr. Scott. And then the names ‘Vain’ Alan Wallace and Zane Scott can begin working to solidify ourselves as one of the greatest cooperative teams in the history of the business, as we also continue proving ourselves to be the greatest World and Cross-Hemisphere Champions that UGWC has ever had the pleasure of having on its roster. We are the standard, after all.
Zane nods in agreement.
Alan: Though I’m sure our esteemed opponents do not think that highly of either of us.
Zane looks at Vain with a knowing smile.
“Do you actually give a shit what they think of us?”
Alan thinks on the question for a moment, before beginning to shake his head from side to side.
Alan: Not in the fucking slightest, Mr. Scott. But it isn’t about me, and it isn’t about you. It’s about the lies that they continue telling not only themselves, but also the throngs of fans around the world, each and every time that they decide to speak. Whether that be about their cooperative reign… your reign as a multi-time Cross-Hemisphere Champion… or my reign as a multi-time World Champion. Just because they spew their idiocy any time they see fit doesn’t negate all that you and I have done in this business. All it does is insult the intelligence of our fans.
Alan shrugs.
Alan: But I supposed I should expect nothing less.
Zane smiles in agreement, and claps his hands together, rubbing them vigorously.
“Nope, and I expect nothing less of those two. The fact remains that their reign has been an embarrassment to the championships they hold. As you pointed out, they constantly bash us and our accomplishments, but who the hell have they beaten to retain those championships? Pierce and his partner du jour? Do you remember who it was? I don’t, and I guarantee that Seb and Lucy don’t either. After that was the Bear and the brain-damaged novelty act who can’t put on his pants without nearly breaking his ankles. Last but not least was McWrestleface and NBK. I like McWrestleface, he seems like a genuinely good guy and a decent wrestler, and we know NBK is dangerous in his way, but were they actual competition for Lucy and Sebastian?”
Zane's expression betrays his mocking doubt.
Alan: They definitely haven’t defended against any noteworthy teams. Now if they were to defend against you and Mr. Stein, myself and Killian, hell even people like Cypress and Chaos who I loathe more than anything in this world. At least then they would have at least left an impression during this reign. Instead, we’ve been relegated to watching them defend against people who haven’t earned the right to challenge for the Cooperative Championship, and then prattle on about how they are going to go down as the greatest tandem in company history. Frankly, it’s insulting. Not only to the two of us and our past partners, but to all of the other teams that have worked their asses off to make those titles mean something.
Zane shakes his head, looking genuinely angry.
“It’s a slap in the face to all of them and the championship lineage. Period.”
Alan begins to chuckle.
Alan: I guess it’s a good thing that we are going to put an end to it in a mere twenty-four hours or so.
Vain extends his hand with a smile, and after a moment, Zane reciprocates.
Later
The sun begins to set over the sprawling Sonoran Desert, as 'Vain' Alan Wallace and Zane Scott enter the bustling and vibrant Hastingsphere District side by side. They stroll past quite a few vibrant attractions, and even more eccentric booths, the sound of their footsteps drowned out by the ferocious hum of the festival activities going on around them. Neon lights flicker overhead from one of the booths, casting an eerie glow over the people walking underneath them.
Alan: Can't say that I'm surprised by this district, Mr. Scott. Typical Donovan.
"If you mean that it looks like it was designed by a petty child while hiding a devious and self-obsessed schemer, then I agree with you."
Alan chuckles, and then the two men make their way through the district in relative silence. They pass by the Sumo wrestling attraction, where NBK and Camden Carrot are both suited up, doing their best not to be the first knocked out of the circle by the other. They then come to a stop just outside of a small tent, where El Mucho Gordo is giving a seminar on how to design the ultimate lucha libre mask.
Alan: I never understood why someone would want to cover their face.
"In some instances, they're sacred, Alan. They represent a wrestler's identity, their unique qualities, and their history."
Alan: And in other cases?
"Sometimes people are just ugly, Alan," Zane smiles, pointing at his face.
The response causes Alan to burst out in laughter, resulting in some fans turning and looking at him. He points at one man in his forties, the nameplate on his work shirt reading ‘Chad’.
Alan: Oh, that guy definitely needs one.
They then continue on their way, passing an area that showcases Robert Ooley being flogged with a Singapore cane and absolutely loving it. Alan grimaces.
Alan: I always knew Ooley was a freak, but even I'm surprised by that.
"Nothing concerning Ooley surprises me at all anymore, sadly, although I might need to bleach my eyes later because of that…image," Zane shudders.
They continue on their way, the sounds of the festivities dulling to a slight murmur as they encroach upon an area unlike the rest of the district. Alan glances over at Zane.
Alan: Did we take a wrong turn somewhere, Mr. Scott?
Zane doesn't respond, but his brow furrows as he glares straight ahead.
Alan: So, are you sure you’re ready for tomorrow night, Mr. Scott? Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce won't exactly be pushovers, regardless of what we think of their current reign.
"I know exactly what to expect from those two, Alan, because it never changes. Whether that's in the ring, or the events leading up to it."
Alan: They do seem to embark on the roads most traveled when it comes to the two of us, don't they?
"Because they're incapable of anything else, Alan. Robert Frost would be disappointed."
The two men now find themselves in the midst of a forest, surrounded by fruit trees.
Alan: Weren't we in the middle of a desert thirty seconds ago? Did we somehow walk through one of Tempest's special doors?
"It would appear so, Alan, but this is a world of Donovan’s creation. Somehow going from lush to barren seems fitting.”
Alan looks down, smiling as he bends down and picks up a half-rotten apple from the ground.
Alan: Ironic, don't you think, Mr. Scott?
"How so?"
Alan: Concerning Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce, we both know that their favorite brand of criticism concerning the two of us is boredom and arrogance. They seemingly recycle those insults as often as rotten fruit falls from an old tree.
Zane smiles as he reaches out and grabs a pear from another sagging and moribund-looking branch.
"Low-hanging fruit indeed, Alan. They have been singing the same, tired tune for far too long about the two of us."
Alan chuckles as he tosses the apple back to the ground, before then plucking a ripe peach off of another tree.
Alan: They do seem to be stuck on repeat in their criticisms of us. 'Zane is boring.' 'Alan has an ego.' At least some of this fruit has some flavor left in them, unlike their child-like insults.
Zane picks up a fallen mango from the ground.
"Stale. Repetitive. Past its prime. Descriptions of this mango, along with their infantile drivel."
Zane studies the mango for a moment, before then tossing it aside.
"They recycle their insults as often as they've been recycling their cooperative strategies. Let's face it, Alan. We both know Lucy and Seb have gotten complacent as champions. They've relied on the same tricks and strategies in each of their defenses, at least when it’s been necessary. It’s the same old shit from them, and seeing as how we find their routine as boring as we do, then a large portion of the fans likely do too."
Alan: It's time for 'Pretty Painful' to show them what years of experience and true teamwork can achieve, Mr. Scott. Because it isn't just about holding the belts. It's about what you do with them in the process.
Zane stops in his tracks, turning and looking at Alan.
"'Pretty Painful'?"
Alan: You know… 'The Personification of Pain', 'The Man Who Can't Help That He's Pretty'. Figured I'd try it out.
"Try again, Alan."
Alan: 'Pretty and Petty'?
"Pass."
Alan: 'Perfectly Painful'?
"I think we should go back to the drawing board, Alan."
Alan mocks taking offense.
Alan: Well I am sooooooo sorry, Mr. Scott. Were my suggestions not boring enough for you?
Zane bristles at the question.
"Take it easy, 'Poor Man's Seb'."
Alan: Wow… you think you know someone…
The two men go nose-to-nose for more than a few tense moments, before Vain then begins to laugh.
Alan: I tried, Mr. Scott. I really did. But it's just as laughable when we do it!
"Laughable, maybe. Pathetic, indeed."
Alan: So, then we just out-class them like we know we can, and bring those Cooperative Championship Titles to two individuals who actually deserve them.
"And put the rest of the company on notice when we both become dual champions this week, and set a new standard."
Alan: That's why I like you, Mr. Scott. We think exactly alike in a lot of ways.
The two men then turn and walk around a corner, and are greeted with throngs of people still enjoying the festivities within the Hastingsphere District. A lone tree stands off to the side, but instead of fruit adorning it, there are multiple lobsters attached to the limbs.
"I think it's time we leave this godforsaken district, Alan."
Alan: I couldn't agree more, Mr. Scott.
As the two men make their way towards the exit, the tree slightly shudders, and a soft sigh is heard.
Forewell Boding: "I thought for sure they knew it was me."
FIN
Alan leans up against the east wall of a small building erected at the beginning of the festival grounds. Staring out at the bustling going on before him - from fans who have made the journey all this way in an attempt to enjoy every single second of the spectacle known as WrestleStock, to employees of each and every district running back and forth to ensure things are just right - he smiles.
Alan: Hard to believe that it's been almost one-year since I delighted fans around the globe with my shocking return to this very event. Time flies when you're having fun, I suppose.
His friend and advocate, Simon Wellington, begins to chuckle as he hears the utterance, clapping Alan on the shoulder as he comes to a stop next to him.
Simon: And why wouldn't you be having as much fun as you've ever had? Keymaster… another Battleground victory… reigning World Champion. It's almost as if you never left.
Alan: What can I say, Simon… I try.
Simon: I'm aware. And it is in that vein that I ask… why are you out here allowing the sun to beat down on you? You realize that you have a huge UGWC World Heavyweight Championship match to prepare for this coming Sunday, yes?
Alan glances over at him and smiles.
Alan: I've heard a little bit about that, yes.
Simon: Then rest and hydration, Alan. Those are the orders for this week. This Arizona heat will catch up to you quickly if you aren't careful.
Alan nods as he turns his head and gazes out upon the scene before him once more.
Alan: Look, I get it, Simon. Truly. But two things…
Simon: Yes?
Alan: Number one, it's been more than a few years since I've really been able to enjoy this festival in its entirety. Sure, I appeared at this event last year, but that was a last-minute surprise that didn't allow me to experience the full scope that is 'WrestleStock Week'.
Simon nods.
Simon: And the second thing?
Alan: The UGWC World Championship isn't the only title that I plan on leaving Arizona with, Simon.
Simon: Which is even more reason to make sure you get the proper amount of rest, Alan. Two matches… two championship matches in three days, in this heat? You have to be exceedingly careful this week, Alan.
Alan: I know.
Simon: Even still, at the end of the day…
Simon trails off, and after a moment, Alan looks back over at him.
Alan: At the end of the day, what?
Simon turns to fully face his client.
Simon: At the end of the day, the UGWC World Heavyweight Championship is the ultimate prize, Alan. It is the championship that you must concern yourself with over all else.
Alan sighs as he pushes himself off of the wall that he has been leaning against, and turns towards Simon.
Alan: Look Simon, the UGWC World Heavyweight Championship means more than anything to me that isn't named Celeste or Presley. I think everyone is keenly aware of that fact. Thing is? The UGWC Cooperative Championship isn't far behind that. It is the championship that I have had even greater success with than I have the World Title that means so much to me. And it's a title that I haven't had the pleasure of holding in almost four years, ever since Travis and I lost them to Eden Morgan and Gabriel Baal at Horizons. Winning them with Mr. Scott this week will tie me with Mr. Somers for the most reigns in UGWC history, which will add yet another accolade to the ever-growing resume that is 'Vain' Alan Wallace.
Simon attempts to speak, but Alan interrupts him.
Alan: And winning them will grant Mr. Scott his fourth reign as UGWC Cooperative Champion. And in the process, we can also damage the psyche of both Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce leading into those other championship matches later in the week. It's a perfect storm.
Simon: Just so long as the two of you can manage success later in the week, yes.
Alan: And don't think that isn't the plan, Simon. Don't get me wrong, I take nothing away from the two of them. Lucy Wylde and Sebastian Everett-Bryce are two of the best entertainment professionals to ever step foot into a wrestling ring, and they have both won just about every championship possible. They are future first-ballot Hall of Famers, no doubt. And in their current Cooperative Championship reign, they've barely even been challenged. It's gotten to the point where they're almost just going through the motions, so to speak. And in my humble opinion, it's high time that we have champions that truly value those Cooperative titles.
Simon: And Zane and yourself are the two to do that? In your humble opinion?
Alan smiles.
Alan: Well the two of us were the backbone of The Syndicate all those years ago. It makes sense for the two of us to be the backbone of the Cooperative division moving forward, doesn't it?
Simon nods as he takes a few steps in front of Alan, looking back over his shoulder.
Simon: Then I shall attempt to find Zane and see when a good time will be to discuss strategy.
Alan nods, watching as Simon makes his way through the festival grounds. He smiles.
Alan: It's time we make them remember just who we are…
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Somewhere deep in the bowels of the festival grounds, Zane Scott is seated backwards on an old, wooden chair. Before him is a full-length mirror, a crack at the top that extends three-quarters of the way down the middle of the glass. He glares into his reflection, his gaze almost staring through it.
"Legacy. It’s a futile attempt at leaving something worthwhile behind once the body breaks down to the point where it can’t go anymore."
He maneuvers his head back and forth, the sound of his neck cracking echoing throughout the cool, dank room that he finds himself in.
"Everything that I can give in this industry, I have left in that ring. Not only the litany of injuries and setbacks, but all of the triumphs as well. Triumphs that I intend to add to this week."
He lowers his head, staring down at the floor.
“I know that Seb and Lucy, and people like them, love to stand on high and pontificate to everyone about how their accomplishments ought to be lauded as if they changed the world, and I’ll give credit where it’s due, both Seb and Lucy have had Hall of Fame careers. Sebastian’s two-year Chaos Championship reign may never be surpassed and while I’m man enough to admit that, we’ve seen that you, Sebastian, are not man enough to reciprocate that credit to Alan and me.”
He smiles.
“I won’t sit here and say that I’ve never done that. Obviously I have, many, many times. “
“There’s a problem with that, which apparently our two great saviors haven’t considered,” he explains, chuckling.
“If we’re nothing and you beat us…”
He smirks.
“What value does that place on your victory?”
He shrugs suggestively.
“What does it make you?”
He emphasizes “you,” letting the silence after it hang in the air for a few moments.
“Sebastian, you can move the goalposts regarding my accomplishments all you want. The simple fact is that I’ve accomplished them, and in this era of UGWC, they’re the standard, not the exception. In your mind, I’m sure that you believe that you could beat Moss Edwards's record for the single longest reign and you base that on your aforementioned reign as Chaos Champion. If I were in your position, I’d certainly be inclined to believe that, too. It’s not completely irrational.”
He turns back to the mirror, pointing at it.
“But it is arrogant.”
He gestures to a miniature Falcor that sits next to him on a small table.
“It’s also incredibly foolish.”
He rests his arms on the chair.
“Perhaps, and I’m only spitballing here from one accomplished professional to another here, that’s why the best you’ve managed to accomplish lately is a flaccid CoOperative Championship reign with Lucy.”
“I’m sure that you find my use of ‘flaccid’ a bit insulting,” he continues. “But it’s no more insulting than you insisting that my reign as Cross-Hemisphere Championship is meaningless for all of these arbitrary reasons that you pulled out of your ass. Be honest about this for once, Sebastian, what’ve you actually accomplished in the Cross-Hemisphere Division?”
He angles his head ever so slightly, pulls out his phone, and looks at it. He taps his finger on the chair arm.
He looks up at the camera and then back down at his phone. Suddenly, an image pops onto the screen.
He keeps looking from his camera to his phone and back again. He continues tapping his fingers.
Another image pops up.
He smiles widely.
“Jokes aside, your record in the Cross-Hemisphere Division pales in comparison to mine.”
“It’s not even close, but I’ll address that when I talk to you and Donnie later.”
“The simple fact is that I’m the modern standard for a Cross-Hemisphere Champion.”
He stands up.
“And your fragile ego can’t handle that.”
He sighs, then laughs.
“Lest you feel left out, Luce, the simple fact is that the last time we faced each other for a championship, you beat me. I gave you your plaudits for that victory. I always give you credit for your talents and accomplishments.”
He shakes his head.
“If you’re still mad at me for everything I did years ago, I don’t really know what to tell you. I know it’s easier for you to blindly hate me and incessantly belittle me and what I’ve accomplished while calling me ‘boring.’ I know that’s as comfortable to you as the feeling of Rogan’s chest against your head.”
“I get it. We all get it. You don’t like me.”
He shrugs.
“ I just can’t find the effort to care.”
He spins his phone against the table.
“In terms of time, your current run as CoOperative Champion has been impressive. One hundred and ninety-six days is no small feet. It’s not as impressive as either of my last two runs as Cross-Hemisphere Champion, but you’re getting there kid.”
He laughs.
“I bet it’s really going to chap your ass when Alan and I bring that screeching to a halt.”
“But I’ll leave that for later.”
A devilish smile spreads across his face.
“I can’t help but wonder if there isn’t a small part of you that isn’t bothered by the fact that your last run as World Champion was ended by your ‘bestie.’ Your current CoOperative partner. Good old Sebastian.”
He stands up.
“Think about it. Sebastian will always put Sebastian first.”
He pulls up a toy sword and makes a throat-cutting gesture with it.
“Don’t be surprised if he turns on you when this run ends. Don’t be surprised if he blames you for the loss, because it sure as hell won’t be his fault, even if he’s the one we pin.”
“He’ll blame you.”
He drives the sword between the slats in the table before he gives it a sharp twist and snaps the plastic blade in half.
"This week isn't just about winning the Cooperative Titles or reclaiming the Cross-Hemisphere Title that I never should’ve lost in the first place. It isn't even about proving to Lucy and Seb that I'm still one of the most feared people in this sport, regardless of what their personal feelings are towards me. And it isn't even about proving that Alan and I have no equals when we set our minds to it. Simply put, this week is about proving to myself that I still have what it takes to be the Personification of Pain".
Slowly, he raises his head back up, glaring back into the broken glass in front of him.
"Step one is to take the Cooperative Titles with Alan. Step two is to take back what's mine in the Cross-Hemisphere Title. It's all within reach. And your broken bodies will litter the festival grounds when it's all said and done."
Thursday, July 11, 2024
Alan: This has become something of a regular occurrence, Mr. Scott.
Alan walks into the room, water bottle in hand, and takes a seat. Zane doesn’t bother turning around to greet his sometimes friend, sometimes rival.
Alan: As much as it was quite the surprise to hear that I would be involved in the Cooperative Championship match this week, I would be remiss if I didn’t say that of everyone on the roster, I am glad that it is you who I am teaming up with.
He unscrews the cap from his bottle.
Alan: Even if you may not feel the same way.
Taking a long drink from his VEEN - which is still somehow perfectly chilled in Arizona in July - he then slowly screws the cap back on.
“And why would I not feel the same, Alan? It isn’t as if teaming with you is something I haven’t done multiple times over the years. I’m likely the only person on the active roster who is able to stomach all of your… quirks.”
Alan smiles as Zane finally turns towards him.
Alan: I would venture to assume that is indeed the case, Mr. Scott. I just meant with recent history, maybe teaming with ‘Yours Truly’ wouldn’t have been at the top of your bucket list for 2024. At least not right now.
Zane glares at him in silence, then shrugs before relaxing. The smile never leaves Alan’s face.
Alan: I mean, we were the last two standing at Keeper of the Keys, and then we were the last two standing at Battleground. I would hope that you wouldn’t hold the end result of those two events against me, Mr. Scott.
“I don’t. You were the better man those nights. I wasn’t expecting to be in that match at 'Battleground', let alone being the one to come closest to actually beating you. No one thought I had a chance to survive that long and I did. I’ve never felt any shame in losing to you. We were the backbone of ‘The Syndicate.’ You and Killian are still one of the greatest cooperative teams in the history of the business. I’m not happy that I lost at ‘Battleground,’ but at least it was to you. I hold no hard feelings toward you for that.”
Alan leans forward and nods, before then looking back up at Zane.
Alan: I appreciate that more than you know, Mr. Scott.
Zane smiles and winks.
“That doesn’t mean I don’t want another shot at you,” he states. “That was the most fun I’ve had in a match in a long time.”
Alan nods again, his smile faltering, albeit only slightly.
Alan: And it would be an honor to defend against you, Mr. Scott. Assuming that I can manage to retain here this week, maybe we can look towards that in the near future. Though… when we emerge victorious against Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce, it may make things a bit… awkward.
“We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it. For now, let’s liberate the cooperative championships from this laughable reign. Also, while I’m not suspecting any shenanigans in your match with Lucy, I’ll be watching in the back. If anyone gets any funny ideas, I’ll come down and…dissuade them from their course.”
Alan: Sounds good to me, Mr. Scott. And then the names ‘Vain’ Alan Wallace and Zane Scott can begin working to solidify ourselves as one of the greatest cooperative teams in the history of the business, as we also continue proving ourselves to be the greatest World and Cross-Hemisphere Champions that UGWC has ever had the pleasure of having on its roster. We are the standard, after all.
Zane nods in agreement.
Alan: Though I’m sure our esteemed opponents do not think that highly of either of us.
Zane looks at Vain with a knowing smile.
“Do you actually give a shit what they think of us?”
Alan thinks on the question for a moment, before beginning to shake his head from side to side.
Alan: Not in the fucking slightest, Mr. Scott. But it isn’t about me, and it isn’t about you. It’s about the lies that they continue telling not only themselves, but also the throngs of fans around the world, each and every time that they decide to speak. Whether that be about their cooperative reign… your reign as a multi-time Cross-Hemisphere Champion… or my reign as a multi-time World Champion. Just because they spew their idiocy any time they see fit doesn’t negate all that you and I have done in this business. All it does is insult the intelligence of our fans.
Alan shrugs.
Alan: But I supposed I should expect nothing less.
Zane smiles in agreement, and claps his hands together, rubbing them vigorously.
“Nope, and I expect nothing less of those two. The fact remains that their reign has been an embarrassment to the championships they hold. As you pointed out, they constantly bash us and our accomplishments, but who the hell have they beaten to retain those championships? Pierce and his partner du jour? Do you remember who it was? I don’t, and I guarantee that Seb and Lucy don’t either. After that was the Bear and the brain-damaged novelty act who can’t put on his pants without nearly breaking his ankles. Last but not least was McWrestleface and NBK. I like McWrestleface, he seems like a genuinely good guy and a decent wrestler, and we know NBK is dangerous in his way, but were they actual competition for Lucy and Sebastian?”
Zane's expression betrays his mocking doubt.
Alan: They definitely haven’t defended against any noteworthy teams. Now if they were to defend against you and Mr. Stein, myself and Killian, hell even people like Cypress and Chaos who I loathe more than anything in this world. At least then they would have at least left an impression during this reign. Instead, we’ve been relegated to watching them defend against people who haven’t earned the right to challenge for the Cooperative Championship, and then prattle on about how they are going to go down as the greatest tandem in company history. Frankly, it’s insulting. Not only to the two of us and our past partners, but to all of the other teams that have worked their asses off to make those titles mean something.
Zane shakes his head, looking genuinely angry.
“It’s a slap in the face to all of them and the championship lineage. Period.”
Alan begins to chuckle.
Alan: I guess it’s a good thing that we are going to put an end to it in a mere twenty-four hours or so.
Vain extends his hand with a smile, and after a moment, Zane reciprocates.
Later
The sun begins to set over the sprawling Sonoran Desert, as 'Vain' Alan Wallace and Zane Scott enter the bustling and vibrant Hastingsphere District side by side. They stroll past quite a few vibrant attractions, and even more eccentric booths, the sound of their footsteps drowned out by the ferocious hum of the festival activities going on around them. Neon lights flicker overhead from one of the booths, casting an eerie glow over the people walking underneath them.
Alan: Can't say that I'm surprised by this district, Mr. Scott. Typical Donovan.
"If you mean that it looks like it was designed by a petty child while hiding a devious and self-obsessed schemer, then I agree with you."
Alan chuckles, and then the two men make their way through the district in relative silence. They pass by the Sumo wrestling attraction, where NBK and Camden Carrot are both suited up, doing their best not to be the first knocked out of the circle by the other. They then come to a stop just outside of a small tent, where El Mucho Gordo is giving a seminar on how to design the ultimate lucha libre mask.
Alan: I never understood why someone would want to cover their face.
"In some instances, they're sacred, Alan. They represent a wrestler's identity, their unique qualities, and their history."
Alan: And in other cases?
"Sometimes people are just ugly, Alan," Zane smiles, pointing at his face.
The response causes Alan to burst out in laughter, resulting in some fans turning and looking at him. He points at one man in his forties, the nameplate on his work shirt reading ‘Chad’.
Alan: Oh, that guy definitely needs one.
They then continue on their way, passing an area that showcases Robert Ooley being flogged with a Singapore cane and absolutely loving it. Alan grimaces.
Alan: I always knew Ooley was a freak, but even I'm surprised by that.
"Nothing concerning Ooley surprises me at all anymore, sadly, although I might need to bleach my eyes later because of that…image," Zane shudders.
They continue on their way, the sounds of the festivities dulling to a slight murmur as they encroach upon an area unlike the rest of the district. Alan glances over at Zane.
Alan: Did we take a wrong turn somewhere, Mr. Scott?
Zane doesn't respond, but his brow furrows as he glares straight ahead.
Alan: So, are you sure you’re ready for tomorrow night, Mr. Scott? Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce won't exactly be pushovers, regardless of what we think of their current reign.
"I know exactly what to expect from those two, Alan, because it never changes. Whether that's in the ring, or the events leading up to it."
Alan: They do seem to embark on the roads most traveled when it comes to the two of us, don't they?
"Because they're incapable of anything else, Alan. Robert Frost would be disappointed."
The two men now find themselves in the midst of a forest, surrounded by fruit trees.
Alan: Weren't we in the middle of a desert thirty seconds ago? Did we somehow walk through one of Tempest's special doors?
"It would appear so, Alan, but this is a world of Donovan’s creation. Somehow going from lush to barren seems fitting.”
Alan looks down, smiling as he bends down and picks up a half-rotten apple from the ground.
Alan: Ironic, don't you think, Mr. Scott?
"How so?"
Alan: Concerning Ms. Wylde and Mr. Everett-Bryce, we both know that their favorite brand of criticism concerning the two of us is boredom and arrogance. They seemingly recycle those insults as often as rotten fruit falls from an old tree.
Zane smiles as he reaches out and grabs a pear from another sagging and moribund-looking branch.
"Low-hanging fruit indeed, Alan. They have been singing the same, tired tune for far too long about the two of us."
Alan chuckles as he tosses the apple back to the ground, before then plucking a ripe peach off of another tree.
Alan: They do seem to be stuck on repeat in their criticisms of us. 'Zane is boring.' 'Alan has an ego.' At least some of this fruit has some flavor left in them, unlike their child-like insults.
Zane picks up a fallen mango from the ground.
"Stale. Repetitive. Past its prime. Descriptions of this mango, along with their infantile drivel."
Zane studies the mango for a moment, before then tossing it aside.
"They recycle their insults as often as they've been recycling their cooperative strategies. Let's face it, Alan. We both know Lucy and Seb have gotten complacent as champions. They've relied on the same tricks and strategies in each of their defenses, at least when it’s been necessary. It’s the same old shit from them, and seeing as how we find their routine as boring as we do, then a large portion of the fans likely do too."
Alan: It's time for 'Pretty Painful' to show them what years of experience and true teamwork can achieve, Mr. Scott. Because it isn't just about holding the belts. It's about what you do with them in the process.
Zane stops in his tracks, turning and looking at Alan.
"'Pretty Painful'?"
Alan: You know… 'The Personification of Pain', 'The Man Who Can't Help That He's Pretty'. Figured I'd try it out.
"Try again, Alan."
Alan: 'Pretty and Petty'?
"Pass."
Alan: 'Perfectly Painful'?
"I think we should go back to the drawing board, Alan."
Alan mocks taking offense.
Alan: Well I am sooooooo sorry, Mr. Scott. Were my suggestions not boring enough for you?
Zane bristles at the question.
"Take it easy, 'Poor Man's Seb'."
Alan: Wow… you think you know someone…
The two men go nose-to-nose for more than a few tense moments, before Vain then begins to laugh.
Alan: I tried, Mr. Scott. I really did. But it's just as laughable when we do it!
"Laughable, maybe. Pathetic, indeed."
Alan: So, then we just out-class them like we know we can, and bring those Cooperative Championship Titles to two individuals who actually deserve them.
"And put the rest of the company on notice when we both become dual champions this week, and set a new standard."
Alan: That's why I like you, Mr. Scott. We think exactly alike in a lot of ways.
The two men then turn and walk around a corner, and are greeted with throngs of people still enjoying the festivities within the Hastingsphere District. A lone tree stands off to the side, but instead of fruit adorning it, there are multiple lobsters attached to the limbs.
"I think it's time we leave this godforsaken district, Alan."
Alan: I couldn't agree more, Mr. Scott.
As the two men make their way towards the exit, the tree slightly shudders, and a soft sigh is heard.
Forewell Boding: "I thought for sure they knew it was me."
FIN