Post by T-Robosaurus Rex on Jul 22, 2009 19:39:39 GMT -5
[Travis Roberts ignores all regular airport protocol and reaches into his top pocket for a pre-rolled delicacy and lights it. After the long and arduous flight, locked in a tin can breathing the recycled breath of the entire GIW workforce, ‘The Headliner’ is in no mood to wait until he exits the terminal before lighting up. Luckily for ‘The Blessed One’ it seems Airport Security are tied up elsewhere, and ‘The Blessed Ones’ only concern is blocking out the inane ramblings of his agent, the chubby little funster, Tate Levene...]
Tate – ‘...It’s not that the food is bad, they just don’t give you enough of it...I mean, did you see the size of those plates? There was barely enough food to satisfy the hunger of Chinchilla....’
[‘The Blessed One’ continues to ignore his agent as he quickens his step, not even glancing at the fans lined up against the barriers hoping to sight their favourite stars. Old Lady Levene trails behind her grandson and the Unified Global Champion, her head and eyes darting from left to right, occasionally resting upon a native fan, her eyes narrowing as she scans their bodies for anything suspicious. She clutches her handbag tight to her chest as she walks, as if it contains top secret military information, rather than some Baby-Wipes, blusher and her personal copy of the bible.
‘The TWiSTeD Icon’ though has no time for the crowds of fans that have congregated in this area, his eyes are fixed ahead, his focus continually on the shapely figure of his opponent Gabrielle Montgomery. ‘The Diamond Princess’ stands alone, as ‘Diamond’ Jack completes his passport check, she soon notices ‘The Headliner’, but she does not look at his face, her eyes fixed upon the Unified Global Championship belt that rests on his shoulder. Her eyes filled with a look Travis Roberts has not seen from a member of the opposite sex in a long time; Desire. N a few moments the trance is broken and Gabby’s eyes meet those of ‘The TWiSTeD High Commander’, recognition in both pair’s eyes that they are sharing a moment unique to themselves, a moment of peaceful tranquillity before the battle for glory turns their worlds upside down.
‘The Blessed One’ soon realises that this shared moment belies his backstage persona, and quickly takes another drag from his cylindrical crutch, before establishing a cocky smile across his face, which he attempts to play up with an exuberant false wave in his challengers direction. ‘The Diamond Princess’ returns the smile with a brief nod before her attention is taken elsewhere. This brief exchange though is enough for both Tate Levene and Old Lady Tate to catch up with ‘The Headliner’.]
Old Lady Levene – ‘Must you blatantly disregard international airport rules, do you really want to be hauled away under the suspicion of being a terrorist...by the Japanese of all people? And if you’re not bothered about your own reputation, think about my grandson, something like that could end any hopes we had of him becoming a functioning member of society...’
Tate – ‘Don’t worry Nan, security seem to be worried about something else...I think they lost something...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘And what if they find it soon? You think they’re just going to ignore the fact Travis is breaking numerous international laws...I’m surprised they haven’t burnt your suitcase given the amount of illegal substances you are probably carrying...’
[Travis realises he can’t continue to ignore the Leven Family for any longer, and replies]
Travis – ‘Travis Roberts doesn’t need you to worry about his luggage, there is nothing that could implicate ‘The Blessed One’ in anything unlawful in there. ‘The Headliner’ plans these things carefully...’
Tate – ‘Oooooooh! Have you got one of those Secret Agent style compartment lined with lead?’
Travis – ‘Amateur’
Tate – ‘Oooh! Oooh! Did you mail it to your hotel room before we left?’
Travis – ‘Too many variables to rely upon...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘Please don’t tell us you’ve inserted them into your body, somehow...’
Travis – ‘Too Boolzian like...’
Tate – ‘Then how?’
Travis – ‘All will be revealed in good time...’
[At this point Travis is saved from a seemingly unending stream of questions from his unorthodox entourage by the unmistakable tones of Boss Penguin, who is standing beneath the head of Airport Security, cigar in mouth, poking him with an outstretched flipper]
Boss P – ‘WAT DA FUCK YO’ MEAN YO AIN’T SEEN HIM, DAMN FLIPPY NIGGA WENT THRO’ YO HOMEBOY’S LINE, YO KNOW WID DA OTHER JAP NIGLETS. HE LOOK LIKE ALL OF YO, BUT WID MORE OF DA HOMOEROTIC CHARM. DERE IS NO WAY YO GONE AND LOST ONE OF MY NIGGA’S!’
[The crowd that surrounds GIW performers start to murmur to one another, their ears strained to hear what exactly is going on. Travis Roberts merely starts walking closer with a smile on his face. As he gets closer an almighty ruckus breaks out in front of him, several security guards leap towards Boss P, forming a rather amusing pile of Japanese men in uniform one on top of the other. From beneath them Boss P uses his natural slipperiness to squeeze out from under them and hot flippers it away from them]
Boss P – ‘‘YO BITCHES AIN’T GETTIN’ NO CUFFS ON DIS NIGGA’S FLIPPA’S I’MMA GET MA LAWYERS, AND SUE YO ALL FOR LOSIN’ MY FLIPPY KICKY NIGLET!’’
[As Boss P disappears from view, and the security guards get to their feet looking at one another with expressions of shame, indignation and confusion at the same time. They exchange a few words between one another, but Travis ignores their exchange as he chuckles to himself and remarks to the person beside him]
Travis - ‘A scene like that, Travis Roberts can enjoy even without the assistance of a pre-rolled delicacy.’
[Which is lucky for ‘The Headliner’ as he has taken the last toke, and is now just holding a useless roach]
Gabrielle - ‘He has a definite way of livening things up.
[Travis glances to his left to see ‘The Diamond Princess’ standing by his side, obviously having been drawn to the scene in much the same way as Travis. The two competitors exchange uneasy smiles as their eyes lock onto each other from a distance of under a foot. The tension seemingly transcends the entire terminal, as a hush quickly falls upon the surrounding fans and GIW athletes alike. As the immediate population of Tokyo await what comes next, Tate tugs on Travis’ arm urgently, as ‘Diamond’ Jack slips in and places his hand around Gabrielle’s waist. At this moment ‘The Headliner’ realises that although Gabby’s eyes have unlocked with his, that there are hundreds of pairs focused upon ‘The Headliner’ at this moment. With this realisation his stands a little taller, and forms his mouth into the recognisable cocky grin, as he prepares to do what he does best, before ‘The Diamond Princess’ beats him to it.]
Gabrielle – ‘Make sure you spend what Blessed time you have left with that Championship well Travis, just six days to go till you’ll be saying former Global Unified Champion this, former Global Unified Champion that.’
Travis – ‘Gabrielle as ‘The Headliner’ has stated in the past; ‘The Blessed One’ is the only individual within GIW capable of living the life that being Global Unified Champion entails…you my dear have to settle for the knowledge that it was never my aim to disfigure you and take away those lucrative modelling contracts…it is just the price that ‘The TWiSTeD Icon’ and yourself will have paid for your moment.’
Gabrielle – ‘I’m willing to go through hell Travis…are you?’
[The sound of the camera shutters documenting this meeting drown out ‘The Headliner’s words as Gabby strides off, glancing back one last time at ‘The Blessed One’s Unified Global Championship]
Travis – ‘Hell?’
[Travis’ thought process is interrupted though as Tate again urgently tugs at The Global Unified Champions arm once more. ‘The Headliner’ glances down at his rotund agent, who has a panicked look on his face...]
Tate – ‘Travis...they say they found something in my luggage...they want to question me, help me Travis, I don’t want to go to jail.’
Travis – ‘Well, you were keen to find out what ‘The Headliner’ did with his supllies...’
[Old Lady Levene, who has been standing at her grandsons side pipes up at this point.]
Old Lady Levene – ‘YOU! You planned this? I knew you were a bad lot when I first saw you...’
Travis – ‘Calm down. The moment ‘The Blessed One’ realised he’d be stuck on a long haul flight in between the two of you, ‘The Headliner’ realised he’d need an excuse to get away from you both for a few hours. Plus, a few hours being cross interrogated and having a full cavity search, hardly makes up for Tate trying to clutch ‘The Blessed Ones’ hand during takeoff and landing...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘He’s always been afraid of flying...regardless this is hardly a proportionate response!’
Travis – ‘You think? ‘The TWiSTeD Guerrilla’ is still pondering exactly how he can punish your grandson for jumping into his lap when we hit that air pocket...’
[Tate stands silently looking at his own feet, whilst his grandmothers face begins to turn a bright red]
Old Lady Levene – ‘You are a...’
Tate – ‘He’s right Nan, it’s my own fault...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘What!?!?’
Travis – ‘See? The kid knows he done wrong, look ‘The Headliner’ will make sure the GIW legal team smooth things over, but given that little scene from our illustrious leader, it may take a few hours...’The Headliner’ will see you back at the hotel...’
[As Old Lady Levene’s jaw waggles up and down, ‘The Blessed One’ chuckles and grabs his bag off of the carousel before making for the exit. As he passes by the ropes off barrier he notices the chiselled frame of ‘Diamond’ Jack Severino speaking to a Japanese reporter. ‘The Blessed One’ stops in his tracks for a moment and looks across to a bench where ‘The Diamond Princess’ sits focusing upon the love of her life. ‘The Headliner’ looks down at the strap of gold that hangs from his shoulder, before glancing back at Gabby and then Jack, before shaking his head and making for the terminal exit as the scene fades out.]
Girl – ‘Welcome Home Master!’
[The words are spoken by a young Japanese girl, dressed as if straight out of the page of a Manga publication. Hair in bunches, small traditional maids uniform in black and white, with white knee high socks. You can’t help but wonder if she is about to pull out a throwing star and take out some approaching ninja assassin. Her words are spoken in broken English, and she smiles at the recipient of the welcome, none other than Travis Roberts.
A closer inspection of the surrounding area suggests that Travis has never met this girl in his life, and he is certainly not her master. The room contains around half a dozen Japanese business men, sitting at small benches as they are served tea by almost identical looking ‘maids’. Some even seem to be playing simple, children’s games. To those of you unaccustomed to Japanese culture this is an example of a new trend appearing across the country, a ‘Maido’ or ‘Meido’ cafe. There are no sexual overtones to the girls actions, this is simply a place for the busy and stressed to relax and unwind.
‘The Headliner’ is lead over to a bench, and the young girl kneels down before him and pours him his tea. When she is done he just sits and stares at her, not taking a sip of his tea. The girl just returns his stare with various smiles and giggles, obviously tailored to make the customer more comfortable. After a few moments ‘the Headliner’ begins to speak.]
Travis – ‘I was asked if I was willing to go through hell today.’
Maid – ‘I sorry, my English only small. You want another girl?’
Travis – ‘No...it’s not a problem. You see ‘The Headliner’ was taken aback by such a question, it seemed irrelevant. Such words coming from ‘The Blessed Ones’ opponents are commonplace, but this time they resonated. Surely ‘The Diamond Princess’ is well aware that what lies before us is in no way a true reflection of ‘Hell’. But ‘The Headliner’ is not sure of much these days, he was sure coming into No Holds Barred that he was facing a competitor who truly wanted to attain to that of GIW’s Number 1 athlete, a challenger that, at least, believed in themselves enough to think they could hold the prestige of this company on their shoulders, confident enough that they could lead this company through its most turbulent period.’
[The maid merely nods in agreement with everything Travis says, quite obviously understanding very little of what he is saying, perhaps the brief word or phrase, but not enough for her to follow the gist of ‘The Blessed One’s rant.]
Travis – ‘’The Headliner’ was so sure of these things, but when he disembarked the plane and trod upon Japanese soil, he might as well have arrived in a different reality. His challenger hides away from the attention and glory that comes with competing for the most important prize in the industry, instead sending their partner to do their talking for them. Their partner, another who had a chance at taking this shot, their partner had their chance to shine, but sacrificed it...for someone too preoccupied with the premise of ‘Hell’ to truly reach for Glory, too worried about the toll it will take upon them to stamp their mark on this momentous occasion in GIW history...’
[The maid motions down at the still full cup of tea in front of ‘The Headliner’ but he dismisses it wuitgh a wave of his hand]
Travis - ‘’The TWiSTeD icon’ has a very different outlook than his opponent; ‘The Headliner’ does not seek the glory that victory will ensure, for seeking glory is a path to disappointment. You see ‘The Blessed One’ has a true appreciation for the true meaning of ‘Hell’. Barbed wire, C4, light tubes, sledgehammers, baseball bats, none of these things constitute ‘Hell’. No matter the injuries and disfigurements that ‘The Headliner’ receives or dishes out at the Dome on Saturday, the ‘Deathmatch of Doom’ will not come close to a true embodiment of ‘Hell’.’
[‘Hell’ is obviously a word the maid understands, and she seems to be becoming quite uncomfortable and worried by its repeated usage by this pale stranger, her face stays fixed in a smile, but her eyes dart from left to right ensuring she is still surrounded by others, belying the expression on her face]
Travis – ‘’Hell’ is not a physical pain, it is not the torturing of one’s body, it is mental anguish and emotional turmoil. It is the realisation that everything you once believed to be true is a lie, that those you entrusted most are willing to cast you aside for personal glory, it is the realisation that your own quest for glory has left you a lonely and despairing figure. But of course ‘The Headliner’ cannot expect his opponent to understand this, though they caused pain and anguish to those closest to them, it barely resonated with them, ‘The Blessed Ones’ opponent has never truly undergone a traumatic experience in their life, just inflicted it on those closest to themselves. ‘The Headliner’ imagines the worst day of his opponents life was when they were presented with a Porsche rather than the Ferrari they wanted for their 18th birthday...’
[Just as the maid starts to relax again due to the word ‘Hell’ being used less frequently, she tenses up once more as ‘The Headliner’ continues.]
Travis – ‘’Is Travis Roberts willing to go through Hell?’ ‘The Headliner’ lives every day in hell, it is not a case of doing it willingly. ‘Hell’ encompassed ‘The Blessed One’ the moment he put personal glory in front of the greater need. ‘The TWiSTeD Guerrilla’s opponent obviously knows much about Travis Roberts’ past, the events that lead to his coma, and the hopes for glory he held before that incident. But ‘The Blessed One’ can tell his opponent does not know ‘The Most Influential Icon in Sports Entertainment this Millennia’ as well as they think. They assume Travis Roberts has not competed in a match as brutal as his upcoming challenge, which truly begs the question ‘What do they think TWiSTeD meant?’. TWiSTeD Fight Club was not just a fancy name...’
Travis – ‘TFC and ‘The Headliner’ were big in Japan years ago; the wrestling fans of this country appreciated the chaotic and violent nature of our shows, and took the brand to their hearts. Behind the quiet, shy facade of your country, hides a lust for blood that is unrivalled on this planet, a fact that will be in no doubt by the end of No Holds Barred. But your country holds a greater significance to ‘The Blessed One’ than that, it was in this very country, in the very same arena that GIW will grace on Sunday, that ‘The Blessed Ones’ ‘Hell’ began.’
[The maid senses that the westerner in front of her is obviously sharing something with her, although what it could possibly be eludes her, and she cocks her head and gives ‘The Blessed One’ what sghe hopes is a sympathetic smile.]
Travis – ‘It’s strange, ‘The Headliner’, upon hearing his past recounted to a reporter, realised he had never thought about the day he was plunged into a coma. Sure he had thought about those involved, but not the actual events of that day, and it was only upon leaving the airport that Travis Roberts remembered, GWAR’s vicious attack took place in this very country, in the very arena that ‘The Headliner’ will once again put his body on the line in...’
[The maid cocks her head to the other side, in an attempt to seem interested]
Travis – ‘The Tokyo Dome is metaphorically the gate to ‘The Blessed Ones’ personal ‘Hell’, and it hadn’t crossed ‘The TWiSTeD Icons’ mind until a few hours ago. And as the realisation dawned upon ‘The Headliner’ it merely reaffirmed what he already knew to be true. Travis Roberts forthcoming match is not about his glory, but the future and stability of everyone he works with. A company with no home, with no TV deal after this Pay-Per-View, is in desperate need of a Champion who knows the perils of thinking just of personal glory, to lead it through these turbulent times. The Tokyo Dome serves as a stark reminder to ‘the Blessed One’ just what happens when you are consumed by the quest for glory, it leads you straight on the path to ‘Hell’.
[At this point ‘The Blessed One’; rises from the ebnch, and receives a bow from his hostess and then turns to leave, as he walks towards the door he pats his top pocket searching out a delicacy, but comes across a picture, and stops and turns around.]
Travis – ‘Almost forgot...Have any of you seen this man?’
[Travis raises his voice so the whole room can hear his question and he holds the photo up and shows it around. Realising that many of the occupants of the room have no idea what he is saying, he begins to make motions with his hands to his eyes, then to the picture. After a few moments a man nods, and points outside the door at a building opposite the cafe. Travis smirks as he turns...]
Travis – ‘Another Mystery solved by ‘The TWiSTeD Detective’...’
[The smile on Travis face soon evaporates as he walks out of the cafe door, and looks up at the building the man inside motioned to, and see’s before him a familiar sight. Plastered across a huge billboard is the very underwear advert Alex Kiseragi posed for last year, The Dragon’s crotch being displayed to an entire street of Tokyo.
Before Travis has a chance to show frustration or even amusement, he is interrupted as he hears his voice being called, and turns to see Bai Lwai, the interviewer from the airport, come rushing towards him with her cameraman.]
Bai – ‘Travis! Travis! Have you heard ‘Diamond’ Jacks comments regarding your historic match on Sunday? Do you have anything to say?’
[Travis nonchalantly reaches into his pocket, this time retrieving a delicacy and lights it whilst forever gazing into the camera with an arrogant smirk.]
Travis – ‘Travis Roberts isn’t quite too sure what ‘Diamond’ jack is doing commenting on anything, ‘The Headliner’ would have thought his time would be full, what with having to do all the chores round the house whilst his Girlfriend prepares for the biggest match of her life...’
Bai – ‘Don’t you think that’s a bit of a sexist attitude?’
Travis – ‘Look, ‘The Blessed One’ isn’t suggesting they don’t usually share the burden, but if Gabrielle’s mind is on anything other than her upcoming match, she’s not preparing right. But hell, ‘The TWiSteD High Commander’ doesn’t understand a lot that couple does anyway. Why would anyone hide away from reporters on the build up to their most ‘Blessed’ moment to date. If she gets nervous speaking to a small lady like yourself, whats going to go through her mind as her head races towards a C4 turnbuckle....’
Bai – ‘’Diamond’ Jack seems pretty confident of Gabby’s chances, and he would know her better than most you would think, wouldn’t you say?’
Travis – ‘Of course he acts confident, he can’t exactly display his fears to you can he. After months of battling against the likes of Daniel Hanson and the Crimson Ghost for the affections of his one true love, he’s gotta play it pretty careful don’t you think? When guys like that are actually competition to you, you gotta play a smart game. And ‘The Blessed One’ heard him promise you the first interview with GIW’s Unified Global Champion after No Holds Barred, so you can’t really trust much that comes out of his mouth, after all who in their right mind would believe Jack would be better suited to booking my schedule than tate, it’s absurdity...’
Bai – ‘The upcoming ‘Deathmatch of Doom’ is one of the most violent spectacles ever seen in GIW, do you feel you are truly prepared for it? Behind all the bravado you must be worried slightly.’
Travis – ‘When you’ve been in a coma, generally you tend not to worry about a lot. But honestly, Travis Roberts is worried about the future for ‘Diamond’ Jack and gabby, they are quite obviously meant to be together, but Gabby’s personal ambitions could well destroy the bridges they have mended in recent weeks. How will their relationship handle the realisation that Gabby was not good enough to take ‘Diamond’ Jacks spot as Number 1 Contender? How will Gabby respond to giving everything she has got and falling short? Will she be able to live with the fact she stood toe to toe with ‘The Headliner’, and take from that the Glory that it will bring, or will she focus upon the failure, the misery and the uselessness that comes with defeat?’
Bai – ‘What if you lose, what will you do?’
Travis – ‘If I lose? There will be far more serious things to worry about than what ‘The Headliner’ will do. What will Global Impact Wrestling do with a flag bearer that hides behind their underachieving boyfriend, when they need their Champion to be the epitome of everything that GIW stands for? In the coming weeks, after the Rising Sun has set, Global Impact Wrestling will enter into its most demanding period to date, and at this time it will need a Unified Global Champion that will deliver the goods, week in, week out, a Champion that will continue to push the boundaries and maintain GIW as the innovators of the industry. It’s clear to someone of ‘The Blessed Ones’ intelligence that there is only one person GIW needs to continue on it’s march to worldwide glory, and that man just happens to be giving you an interview right now...up close and personal...and not...through a spokesman....’
[Travis deems this interview over and turns and leaves the scene, crosses the street and disappears into the crowd as Bai turns to her cameraman and mutters something about wanting to ask about the whereabouts of Alex Kiseragi, as the scene fades out]
Tate – ‘...It’s not that the food is bad, they just don’t give you enough of it...I mean, did you see the size of those plates? There was barely enough food to satisfy the hunger of Chinchilla....’
[‘The Blessed One’ continues to ignore his agent as he quickens his step, not even glancing at the fans lined up against the barriers hoping to sight their favourite stars. Old Lady Levene trails behind her grandson and the Unified Global Champion, her head and eyes darting from left to right, occasionally resting upon a native fan, her eyes narrowing as she scans their bodies for anything suspicious. She clutches her handbag tight to her chest as she walks, as if it contains top secret military information, rather than some Baby-Wipes, blusher and her personal copy of the bible.
‘The TWiSTeD Icon’ though has no time for the crowds of fans that have congregated in this area, his eyes are fixed ahead, his focus continually on the shapely figure of his opponent Gabrielle Montgomery. ‘The Diamond Princess’ stands alone, as ‘Diamond’ Jack completes his passport check, she soon notices ‘The Headliner’, but she does not look at his face, her eyes fixed upon the Unified Global Championship belt that rests on his shoulder. Her eyes filled with a look Travis Roberts has not seen from a member of the opposite sex in a long time; Desire. N a few moments the trance is broken and Gabby’s eyes meet those of ‘The TWiSTeD High Commander’, recognition in both pair’s eyes that they are sharing a moment unique to themselves, a moment of peaceful tranquillity before the battle for glory turns their worlds upside down.
‘The Blessed One’ soon realises that this shared moment belies his backstage persona, and quickly takes another drag from his cylindrical crutch, before establishing a cocky smile across his face, which he attempts to play up with an exuberant false wave in his challengers direction. ‘The Diamond Princess’ returns the smile with a brief nod before her attention is taken elsewhere. This brief exchange though is enough for both Tate Levene and Old Lady Tate to catch up with ‘The Headliner’.]
Old Lady Levene – ‘Must you blatantly disregard international airport rules, do you really want to be hauled away under the suspicion of being a terrorist...by the Japanese of all people? And if you’re not bothered about your own reputation, think about my grandson, something like that could end any hopes we had of him becoming a functioning member of society...’
Tate – ‘Don’t worry Nan, security seem to be worried about something else...I think they lost something...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘And what if they find it soon? You think they’re just going to ignore the fact Travis is breaking numerous international laws...I’m surprised they haven’t burnt your suitcase given the amount of illegal substances you are probably carrying...’
[Travis realises he can’t continue to ignore the Leven Family for any longer, and replies]
Travis – ‘Travis Roberts doesn’t need you to worry about his luggage, there is nothing that could implicate ‘The Blessed One’ in anything unlawful in there. ‘The Headliner’ plans these things carefully...’
Tate – ‘Oooooooh! Have you got one of those Secret Agent style compartment lined with lead?’
Travis – ‘Amateur’
Tate – ‘Oooh! Oooh! Did you mail it to your hotel room before we left?’
Travis – ‘Too many variables to rely upon...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘Please don’t tell us you’ve inserted them into your body, somehow...’
Travis – ‘Too Boolzian like...’
Tate – ‘Then how?’
Travis – ‘All will be revealed in good time...’
[At this point Travis is saved from a seemingly unending stream of questions from his unorthodox entourage by the unmistakable tones of Boss Penguin, who is standing beneath the head of Airport Security, cigar in mouth, poking him with an outstretched flipper]
Boss P – ‘WAT DA FUCK YO’ MEAN YO AIN’T SEEN HIM, DAMN FLIPPY NIGGA WENT THRO’ YO HOMEBOY’S LINE, YO KNOW WID DA OTHER JAP NIGLETS. HE LOOK LIKE ALL OF YO, BUT WID MORE OF DA HOMOEROTIC CHARM. DERE IS NO WAY YO GONE AND LOST ONE OF MY NIGGA’S!’
[The crowd that surrounds GIW performers start to murmur to one another, their ears strained to hear what exactly is going on. Travis Roberts merely starts walking closer with a smile on his face. As he gets closer an almighty ruckus breaks out in front of him, several security guards leap towards Boss P, forming a rather amusing pile of Japanese men in uniform one on top of the other. From beneath them Boss P uses his natural slipperiness to squeeze out from under them and hot flippers it away from them]
Boss P – ‘‘YO BITCHES AIN’T GETTIN’ NO CUFFS ON DIS NIGGA’S FLIPPA’S I’MMA GET MA LAWYERS, AND SUE YO ALL FOR LOSIN’ MY FLIPPY KICKY NIGLET!’’
[As Boss P disappears from view, and the security guards get to their feet looking at one another with expressions of shame, indignation and confusion at the same time. They exchange a few words between one another, but Travis ignores their exchange as he chuckles to himself and remarks to the person beside him]
Travis - ‘A scene like that, Travis Roberts can enjoy even without the assistance of a pre-rolled delicacy.’
[Which is lucky for ‘The Headliner’ as he has taken the last toke, and is now just holding a useless roach]
Gabrielle - ‘He has a definite way of livening things up.
[Travis glances to his left to see ‘The Diamond Princess’ standing by his side, obviously having been drawn to the scene in much the same way as Travis. The two competitors exchange uneasy smiles as their eyes lock onto each other from a distance of under a foot. The tension seemingly transcends the entire terminal, as a hush quickly falls upon the surrounding fans and GIW athletes alike. As the immediate population of Tokyo await what comes next, Tate tugs on Travis’ arm urgently, as ‘Diamond’ Jack slips in and places his hand around Gabrielle’s waist. At this moment ‘The Headliner’ realises that although Gabby’s eyes have unlocked with his, that there are hundreds of pairs focused upon ‘The Headliner’ at this moment. With this realisation his stands a little taller, and forms his mouth into the recognisable cocky grin, as he prepares to do what he does best, before ‘The Diamond Princess’ beats him to it.]
Gabrielle – ‘Make sure you spend what Blessed time you have left with that Championship well Travis, just six days to go till you’ll be saying former Global Unified Champion this, former Global Unified Champion that.’
Travis – ‘Gabrielle as ‘The Headliner’ has stated in the past; ‘The Blessed One’ is the only individual within GIW capable of living the life that being Global Unified Champion entails…you my dear have to settle for the knowledge that it was never my aim to disfigure you and take away those lucrative modelling contracts…it is just the price that ‘The TWiSTeD Icon’ and yourself will have paid for your moment.’
Gabrielle – ‘I’m willing to go through hell Travis…are you?’
[The sound of the camera shutters documenting this meeting drown out ‘The Headliner’s words as Gabby strides off, glancing back one last time at ‘The Blessed One’s Unified Global Championship]
Travis – ‘Hell?’
[Travis’ thought process is interrupted though as Tate again urgently tugs at The Global Unified Champions arm once more. ‘The Headliner’ glances down at his rotund agent, who has a panicked look on his face...]
Tate – ‘Travis...they say they found something in my luggage...they want to question me, help me Travis, I don’t want to go to jail.’
Travis – ‘Well, you were keen to find out what ‘The Headliner’ did with his supllies...’
[Old Lady Levene, who has been standing at her grandsons side pipes up at this point.]
Old Lady Levene – ‘YOU! You planned this? I knew you were a bad lot when I first saw you...’
Travis – ‘Calm down. The moment ‘The Blessed One’ realised he’d be stuck on a long haul flight in between the two of you, ‘The Headliner’ realised he’d need an excuse to get away from you both for a few hours. Plus, a few hours being cross interrogated and having a full cavity search, hardly makes up for Tate trying to clutch ‘The Blessed Ones’ hand during takeoff and landing...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘He’s always been afraid of flying...regardless this is hardly a proportionate response!’
Travis – ‘You think? ‘The TWiSTeD Guerrilla’ is still pondering exactly how he can punish your grandson for jumping into his lap when we hit that air pocket...’
[Tate stands silently looking at his own feet, whilst his grandmothers face begins to turn a bright red]
Old Lady Levene – ‘You are a...’
Tate – ‘He’s right Nan, it’s my own fault...’
Old Lady Levene – ‘What!?!?’
Travis – ‘See? The kid knows he done wrong, look ‘The Headliner’ will make sure the GIW legal team smooth things over, but given that little scene from our illustrious leader, it may take a few hours...’The Headliner’ will see you back at the hotel...’
[As Old Lady Levene’s jaw waggles up and down, ‘The Blessed One’ chuckles and grabs his bag off of the carousel before making for the exit. As he passes by the ropes off barrier he notices the chiselled frame of ‘Diamond’ Jack Severino speaking to a Japanese reporter. ‘The Blessed One’ stops in his tracks for a moment and looks across to a bench where ‘The Diamond Princess’ sits focusing upon the love of her life. ‘The Headliner’ looks down at the strap of gold that hangs from his shoulder, before glancing back at Gabby and then Jack, before shaking his head and making for the terminal exit as the scene fades out.]
Girl – ‘Welcome Home Master!’
[The words are spoken by a young Japanese girl, dressed as if straight out of the page of a Manga publication. Hair in bunches, small traditional maids uniform in black and white, with white knee high socks. You can’t help but wonder if she is about to pull out a throwing star and take out some approaching ninja assassin. Her words are spoken in broken English, and she smiles at the recipient of the welcome, none other than Travis Roberts.
A closer inspection of the surrounding area suggests that Travis has never met this girl in his life, and he is certainly not her master. The room contains around half a dozen Japanese business men, sitting at small benches as they are served tea by almost identical looking ‘maids’. Some even seem to be playing simple, children’s games. To those of you unaccustomed to Japanese culture this is an example of a new trend appearing across the country, a ‘Maido’ or ‘Meido’ cafe. There are no sexual overtones to the girls actions, this is simply a place for the busy and stressed to relax and unwind.
‘The Headliner’ is lead over to a bench, and the young girl kneels down before him and pours him his tea. When she is done he just sits and stares at her, not taking a sip of his tea. The girl just returns his stare with various smiles and giggles, obviously tailored to make the customer more comfortable. After a few moments ‘the Headliner’ begins to speak.]
Travis – ‘I was asked if I was willing to go through hell today.’
Maid – ‘I sorry, my English only small. You want another girl?’
Travis – ‘No...it’s not a problem. You see ‘The Headliner’ was taken aback by such a question, it seemed irrelevant. Such words coming from ‘The Blessed Ones’ opponents are commonplace, but this time they resonated. Surely ‘The Diamond Princess’ is well aware that what lies before us is in no way a true reflection of ‘Hell’. But ‘The Headliner’ is not sure of much these days, he was sure coming into No Holds Barred that he was facing a competitor who truly wanted to attain to that of GIW’s Number 1 athlete, a challenger that, at least, believed in themselves enough to think they could hold the prestige of this company on their shoulders, confident enough that they could lead this company through its most turbulent period.’
[The maid merely nods in agreement with everything Travis says, quite obviously understanding very little of what he is saying, perhaps the brief word or phrase, but not enough for her to follow the gist of ‘The Blessed One’s rant.]
Travis – ‘’The Headliner’ was so sure of these things, but when he disembarked the plane and trod upon Japanese soil, he might as well have arrived in a different reality. His challenger hides away from the attention and glory that comes with competing for the most important prize in the industry, instead sending their partner to do their talking for them. Their partner, another who had a chance at taking this shot, their partner had their chance to shine, but sacrificed it...for someone too preoccupied with the premise of ‘Hell’ to truly reach for Glory, too worried about the toll it will take upon them to stamp their mark on this momentous occasion in GIW history...’
[The maid motions down at the still full cup of tea in front of ‘The Headliner’ but he dismisses it wuitgh a wave of his hand]
Travis - ‘’The TWiSTeD icon’ has a very different outlook than his opponent; ‘The Headliner’ does not seek the glory that victory will ensure, for seeking glory is a path to disappointment. You see ‘The Blessed One’ has a true appreciation for the true meaning of ‘Hell’. Barbed wire, C4, light tubes, sledgehammers, baseball bats, none of these things constitute ‘Hell’. No matter the injuries and disfigurements that ‘The Headliner’ receives or dishes out at the Dome on Saturday, the ‘Deathmatch of Doom’ will not come close to a true embodiment of ‘Hell’.’
[‘Hell’ is obviously a word the maid understands, and she seems to be becoming quite uncomfortable and worried by its repeated usage by this pale stranger, her face stays fixed in a smile, but her eyes dart from left to right ensuring she is still surrounded by others, belying the expression on her face]
Travis – ‘’Hell’ is not a physical pain, it is not the torturing of one’s body, it is mental anguish and emotional turmoil. It is the realisation that everything you once believed to be true is a lie, that those you entrusted most are willing to cast you aside for personal glory, it is the realisation that your own quest for glory has left you a lonely and despairing figure. But of course ‘The Headliner’ cannot expect his opponent to understand this, though they caused pain and anguish to those closest to them, it barely resonated with them, ‘The Blessed Ones’ opponent has never truly undergone a traumatic experience in their life, just inflicted it on those closest to themselves. ‘The Headliner’ imagines the worst day of his opponents life was when they were presented with a Porsche rather than the Ferrari they wanted for their 18th birthday...’
[Just as the maid starts to relax again due to the word ‘Hell’ being used less frequently, she tenses up once more as ‘The Headliner’ continues.]
Travis – ‘’Is Travis Roberts willing to go through Hell?’ ‘The Headliner’ lives every day in hell, it is not a case of doing it willingly. ‘Hell’ encompassed ‘The Blessed One’ the moment he put personal glory in front of the greater need. ‘The TWiSTeD Guerrilla’s opponent obviously knows much about Travis Roberts’ past, the events that lead to his coma, and the hopes for glory he held before that incident. But ‘The Blessed One’ can tell his opponent does not know ‘The Most Influential Icon in Sports Entertainment this Millennia’ as well as they think. They assume Travis Roberts has not competed in a match as brutal as his upcoming challenge, which truly begs the question ‘What do they think TWiSTeD meant?’. TWiSTeD Fight Club was not just a fancy name...’
Travis – ‘TFC and ‘The Headliner’ were big in Japan years ago; the wrestling fans of this country appreciated the chaotic and violent nature of our shows, and took the brand to their hearts. Behind the quiet, shy facade of your country, hides a lust for blood that is unrivalled on this planet, a fact that will be in no doubt by the end of No Holds Barred. But your country holds a greater significance to ‘The Blessed One’ than that, it was in this very country, in the very same arena that GIW will grace on Sunday, that ‘The Blessed Ones’ ‘Hell’ began.’
[The maid senses that the westerner in front of her is obviously sharing something with her, although what it could possibly be eludes her, and she cocks her head and gives ‘The Blessed One’ what sghe hopes is a sympathetic smile.]
Travis – ‘It’s strange, ‘The Headliner’, upon hearing his past recounted to a reporter, realised he had never thought about the day he was plunged into a coma. Sure he had thought about those involved, but not the actual events of that day, and it was only upon leaving the airport that Travis Roberts remembered, GWAR’s vicious attack took place in this very country, in the very arena that ‘The Headliner’ will once again put his body on the line in...’
[The maid cocks her head to the other side, in an attempt to seem interested]
Travis – ‘The Tokyo Dome is metaphorically the gate to ‘The Blessed Ones’ personal ‘Hell’, and it hadn’t crossed ‘The TWiSTeD Icons’ mind until a few hours ago. And as the realisation dawned upon ‘The Headliner’ it merely reaffirmed what he already knew to be true. Travis Roberts forthcoming match is not about his glory, but the future and stability of everyone he works with. A company with no home, with no TV deal after this Pay-Per-View, is in desperate need of a Champion who knows the perils of thinking just of personal glory, to lead it through these turbulent times. The Tokyo Dome serves as a stark reminder to ‘the Blessed One’ just what happens when you are consumed by the quest for glory, it leads you straight on the path to ‘Hell’.
[At this point ‘The Blessed One’; rises from the ebnch, and receives a bow from his hostess and then turns to leave, as he walks towards the door he pats his top pocket searching out a delicacy, but comes across a picture, and stops and turns around.]
Travis – ‘Almost forgot...Have any of you seen this man?’
[Travis raises his voice so the whole room can hear his question and he holds the photo up and shows it around. Realising that many of the occupants of the room have no idea what he is saying, he begins to make motions with his hands to his eyes, then to the picture. After a few moments a man nods, and points outside the door at a building opposite the cafe. Travis smirks as he turns...]
Travis – ‘Another Mystery solved by ‘The TWiSTeD Detective’...’
[The smile on Travis face soon evaporates as he walks out of the cafe door, and looks up at the building the man inside motioned to, and see’s before him a familiar sight. Plastered across a huge billboard is the very underwear advert Alex Kiseragi posed for last year, The Dragon’s crotch being displayed to an entire street of Tokyo.
Before Travis has a chance to show frustration or even amusement, he is interrupted as he hears his voice being called, and turns to see Bai Lwai, the interviewer from the airport, come rushing towards him with her cameraman.]
Bai – ‘Travis! Travis! Have you heard ‘Diamond’ Jacks comments regarding your historic match on Sunday? Do you have anything to say?’
[Travis nonchalantly reaches into his pocket, this time retrieving a delicacy and lights it whilst forever gazing into the camera with an arrogant smirk.]
Travis – ‘Travis Roberts isn’t quite too sure what ‘Diamond’ jack is doing commenting on anything, ‘The Headliner’ would have thought his time would be full, what with having to do all the chores round the house whilst his Girlfriend prepares for the biggest match of her life...’
Bai – ‘Don’t you think that’s a bit of a sexist attitude?’
Travis – ‘Look, ‘The Blessed One’ isn’t suggesting they don’t usually share the burden, but if Gabrielle’s mind is on anything other than her upcoming match, she’s not preparing right. But hell, ‘The TWiSteD High Commander’ doesn’t understand a lot that couple does anyway. Why would anyone hide away from reporters on the build up to their most ‘Blessed’ moment to date. If she gets nervous speaking to a small lady like yourself, whats going to go through her mind as her head races towards a C4 turnbuckle....’
Bai – ‘’Diamond’ Jack seems pretty confident of Gabby’s chances, and he would know her better than most you would think, wouldn’t you say?’
Travis – ‘Of course he acts confident, he can’t exactly display his fears to you can he. After months of battling against the likes of Daniel Hanson and the Crimson Ghost for the affections of his one true love, he’s gotta play it pretty careful don’t you think? When guys like that are actually competition to you, you gotta play a smart game. And ‘The Blessed One’ heard him promise you the first interview with GIW’s Unified Global Champion after No Holds Barred, so you can’t really trust much that comes out of his mouth, after all who in their right mind would believe Jack would be better suited to booking my schedule than tate, it’s absurdity...’
Bai – ‘The upcoming ‘Deathmatch of Doom’ is one of the most violent spectacles ever seen in GIW, do you feel you are truly prepared for it? Behind all the bravado you must be worried slightly.’
Travis – ‘When you’ve been in a coma, generally you tend not to worry about a lot. But honestly, Travis Roberts is worried about the future for ‘Diamond’ Jack and gabby, they are quite obviously meant to be together, but Gabby’s personal ambitions could well destroy the bridges they have mended in recent weeks. How will their relationship handle the realisation that Gabby was not good enough to take ‘Diamond’ Jacks spot as Number 1 Contender? How will Gabby respond to giving everything she has got and falling short? Will she be able to live with the fact she stood toe to toe with ‘The Headliner’, and take from that the Glory that it will bring, or will she focus upon the failure, the misery and the uselessness that comes with defeat?’
Bai – ‘What if you lose, what will you do?’
Travis – ‘If I lose? There will be far more serious things to worry about than what ‘The Headliner’ will do. What will Global Impact Wrestling do with a flag bearer that hides behind their underachieving boyfriend, when they need their Champion to be the epitome of everything that GIW stands for? In the coming weeks, after the Rising Sun has set, Global Impact Wrestling will enter into its most demanding period to date, and at this time it will need a Unified Global Champion that will deliver the goods, week in, week out, a Champion that will continue to push the boundaries and maintain GIW as the innovators of the industry. It’s clear to someone of ‘The Blessed Ones’ intelligence that there is only one person GIW needs to continue on it’s march to worldwide glory, and that man just happens to be giving you an interview right now...up close and personal...and not...through a spokesman....’
[Travis deems this interview over and turns and leaves the scene, crosses the street and disappears into the crowd as Bai turns to her cameraman and mutters something about wanting to ask about the whereabouts of Alex Kiseragi, as the scene fades out]
