Ascension 113: Justin Cooper vs Eve Taylor
- Thread starter Lee
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Da Prophet
Mid-Card Championship Winner
He doubts you and chances are hell continue to doubt you. The guy has nobody around him.
Sat amongst the warm confines of his study, Iris pushed another log into the fire. The night was cold, rain fell outside and had forced the duo inside the house. A fire was the quickest way to warm the study; a damp and cold room on the best of nights without a fire burning. Dust had gathered on the desk towards the end of the room, nearest to the fireplace, where Iris sat. He wiped the desk with his forearm and poured two drinks sliding one to Justin as he approached to warm himself against the fire.
Hes a loner at heart but he doesnt want to admit it. Hes a zebra trying to change his stripes but all hes doing is tearing at his skin and ripping through flesh. The zebra convinces itself that hes changed how he looks, he sees the white replaced by a burning red and yet he fails to see the lion slowly creeping within the reeds. He fails to see that in an attempt to change himself hes shown weakness and attracted predators. Iris said, almost amused.
I know. A hero without a single supporter. I could easily take advantage of that if I wanted. Call in a few favours and Im all but guaranteed that I become World Champion. Who does he have, Iris?
No one. Iris sipped at his drink. He removed his jacket, dark brown and the matching vest underneath. The fire crackled and the ashes fell behind the now burnt piece of wood. Another was added by Iris and he took a second sip of his drink.
What do you think I should do? Justin asked, twirling the drink in his hand. His hair wet with rain drops falling against his shoulders. The suit a shade darker from the water that had soaked through. You saw what Mark did for me last week on Meltdown. He went out there without me asking and got right in Mikeys face. The kid never backed down and he showed loyalty, thats more than Mikey has got from his long forgotten friends.
Iris turned back to the desk and filled his glass up again. The bottle was over half empty and Iris stepped back towards the fire. The heat offering a warm respite from the heavy winds outside mixed the water and the natural temperature of the room.
I wouldnt call it loyalty. Id call it defiance or stupid. Take your pick but it makes no difference. He went out and provoked the reigning Heavyweight Champion and for what?
Mark just wanted to let him know that I wasnt standing alone. He wanted to show that Cooper and Keaton are still as strong a unit as we ever have been. Sure were on different paths right now but when the time comes well get back together and at Kingdom Come hell be right by my side when I fight for the title.
All I saw was a guy speaking on your behalf. His words they might have been but dont fool yourself and believe that he was allowed to do that on his own accord. They let him walk through that curtain because they believed he was speaking for you.
He wasnt. I never asked him to.
Iris shook his head and turned to Justin. The fire burning bright and leaving an orange glow against Justins face with the flames dancing on the twist and turns of his mouth.
I believe you. They will not nor will Mikey Stormrage. Hes your problem, remember? Have you forgotten how difficult he was during the early months of your tag team? He is unstable, he listens to nobody but you and even that is like walking a tight rope. He is a boy playing a mans game and you cannot afford to have him running rogue out there. Especially not with so much on the line.
Ill speak with him about it but hes a grown man and a good friend. He wants me to become World Champion. Hes proud of me. Justin sipped at his drink, the glass now empty he placed it on the desk and stepped back towards the flame. I will not toss him aside or argue with him if he wishes to support me. Its difficult enough in this business when everyone is out for themselves to find an honest friend, I will not turn my back on the one person who has been with me the entire way. Im not Mikey Stormrage.
The only person? Oh, how quickly we forget. Iris eyes glistened as he looked into the flames. It was as if they were dancing in his eyes, a mix of orange, red, yellow and even black. When mixed together the flames, for just a split second, formed a black flame that burned more intensely than any of the rest.
Youre different. Youve been with me since I was a teenager. This past year has seen so many changes. Ive made changes and Ive had more success than ever. Just look at me now, Iris. Im in the main event of Kingdom Come fighting for the World Championship. Can you believe it? Im still trying to wrap my head around it.
Justin smiled and patted his old friend on the back.
Im happy for you. You worked hard and you deserve it. Im just warning you to be careful. Hes dangerous and you do not want to take him lightly. Iris tipped the remaining liquid into his mouth and swallowed, shaking his head as the alcohol left a bitter taste in his mouth. Youll find your room upstairs as always. Just mind your step because Ive had some painters up there doing the ceiling. Might be a few cans of paint still rolling about.
I will. Dont worry, Im always careful. As I will be with Mikey Stormrage. I know what a challenge he is. I know exactly what and who he is. He may doubt who I am but that should not make him despise me, it should make him fear me. Justin kneeled down and pushed his hands towards the fire, warming them and placing the palms against his cheeks. He heard Iris footsteps as he began walking away, the old oak door opened but the footsteps stopped.
I wasnt talking about Mikey. Its not him Im most worried about. Iris was covered by the shadows. Outside the edge of the flame and barely visible but the light from one of the outer rooms highlighted his left side. Mikey is known. You said it yourself, you know who he is and how he thinks. The man is paranoid and fearful that hes going to lose the championship again without defending it. He fears failure and that will only bring it faster. You are not like him. Hes a zebra who cannot change his stripes. He may convince himself that hes changed but everyone else can see that hes only torn at his own skin. You can change, you have changed. Youre the chameleon, always adapting to survive in this business. Six years and yet here you stand on the verge of becoming World Champion. You have that ability to survive unlike Mikey. Hes weak, hes crumbling under the pressure and that means hes yours for the taking.
Justin looked confused. If hes not talking about Mikey who is he talking about? The flames began to die out behind him. The room grew colder and the light slowly faded out. The wood in the fireplace was charred black and split, ashes scattered throughout.
Who should I fear if not Mikey? Justin asked.
Fear is not the word Id use. Though we often fear what we do not know and you must realise that his true intentions are not your own. Mark Keaton is unknown. You may think you know the boy but hes acted without your approval and spoken on your behalf. If he a zebra? I think not. This boy can change his stripes and will likely do it again when he finds a partner or is forced to hand over the Tag Titles. Is he a lion? A fierce creature and willing to tear the strong and weak apart without a moments notice. A vulture perhaps? Looking to eat from the dead.
Silence.
Well... which do you think he is? Justin demand, his voice thick with angst.
I dare not say. I do not know the answer. Mark Keaton is not just one beast or he has yet to show which one resides within him. That makes him dangerous. You do not know what he is and it is the unknown that should worry you. Trust him as you must but I beg you, dont bring him to ringside during your match with Mikey Stormrage.
That shocked Justin. He leaned back against the table and felt the bottle as his elbow bent. He unscrewed the top and filled a glass, he wasnt sure if it was his own or Iris and took a deep sip.
Why not? Hes my partner and I promised him wed make the walk together. Hes just as deserving as I am and without him I wouldnt be in the damn spot. I will not leave him behind, Iris! Tell me why you want to throw him away like some trash on the street? Are you jealous? Do you hate him because hes helped me reach heights you never could? Justin slammed his fist down on the table. Is it envy that has kept you away for so long? I havent seen you in months but here I am, standing in your study which is clearly not getting any use and it just so happens to be on the dawn of my crowning achievement. Perhaps it is you I should be wary of?
I am not here to argue with you. Youre right however, its been too long. Still, Mark is a dangerous man and you believe he wants the best for you but at what cost must you become World Champion? Is it worth throwing yourself away and turning back to the hate that once filled your heart? Youve come so far and I dont want to see you fall back into that trap. Mark Keaton will help you, yes he will do whatever it takes to see you become World Champion but is it worth it? If you have to screw Mikey Stormrage out of the title... is that the type of champion you want to be?
You dont think I can win. Justin clenched his fist and threw the glass into the fireplace, the glass smashed and fell amongst the ashes. I dont need to cheat. Ive proven that but yet my name gets dragged through the mud whenever a big match comes up. I have changed, Ive moved on but nobody else seems to have that ability. I can beat Mikey Stormrage without cheating, Mark Keaton isnt by my side to help me cheat. Hes with me because hes my friend and friends stick by each other. Though you wouldnt understand that, apparently. You want to see how far Im willing to go? Watch Ascension this and youll see me face Eve Taylor. I'll even make you a promise, unlike at Kingdom Come, Mark will not be ringside. Itll just be Eve against me and nothing to distract her. I dont know how many times I have to prove myself as a true and honest man but I hope that when I beat Eve Taylor by myself it will finally silence all the doubters.
Iris began to approached but Justin started walking towards the door and brushed past him. He stepped through the door and made his way to the end of the hallway to the front door of the house.
You dont have to go, Iris said.
Ive got a match to prepare for and it seems its no longer a singles contest so much work is left to be done. I didnt realise I was facing every single doubter who ever questioned me in this match. I forgot that Eve Taylor was supposed to win Lethal Lottery and I just got lucky. Must I say sorry to her for wrestling nearly an hour while she got to waltz into the match twenty spots later? I get it, Iris. You think Im going to slip back to my old ways because Im not on their level but just watch. Just tune in and see how I beat Eve Taylor. Not only do I hope youre watching but I hope Mikey is watching and he sees his girlfriend lose. I hope he sees that I dont need to bend the rules to walk out victorious against his girlfriend. And if I dont need to cheat against Eve than I certainly will not need to cheat against him.
I just want you to be a champion we can all be proud of.
Justin opened the door, the wind was strong and rain poured down from the sky.
I am. Im a champion not because of titles but because of the people I have around me. You were someone I thought I could trust to the end yet here we are. Youre just like Mikey, paranoid and fearful of Mark and I. Were the best tag team ever and I could not think of a better sight than for him and his new partner and I to stand in the ring as Kingdom Come ends with all three of us holding championships. That is what I dream for every night. I dont dream for myself, I dream for those I care about and when I face Eve Taylor I bet that Mark Keaton is going to be supporting me. Hell be backstage, cheering me on and Mikey Stormrage will be somewhere focusing on himself. He doesnt have true friends, he doesnt care about Eve Taylor, all he cares about is the title and that makes us different. It is that which will allow me to become World Heavyweight Champion.
Cooper smirked as the rain echoed off the roof.
After I beat Eve Taylor I hope to only leave one question unanswered.
What would that be? Iris asked.
Cooper turned and slammed the door shut. He ran his hand through his hair, staring up at the night sky. His car was parked to the right but he knew he couldnt drive. With a flick of his collar Cooper began walking in the rain. One final question running through his mind as the rain quickly soaked him yet again. Eve Taylor, whats your excuse?
Sat amongst the warm confines of his study, Iris pushed another log into the fire. The night was cold, rain fell outside and had forced the duo inside the house. A fire was the quickest way to warm the study; a damp and cold room on the best of nights without a fire burning. Dust had gathered on the desk towards the end of the room, nearest to the fireplace, where Iris sat. He wiped the desk with his forearm and poured two drinks sliding one to Justin as he approached to warm himself against the fire.
Hes a loner at heart but he doesnt want to admit it. Hes a zebra trying to change his stripes but all hes doing is tearing at his skin and ripping through flesh. The zebra convinces itself that hes changed how he looks, he sees the white replaced by a burning red and yet he fails to see the lion slowly creeping within the reeds. He fails to see that in an attempt to change himself hes shown weakness and attracted predators. Iris said, almost amused.
I know. A hero without a single supporter. I could easily take advantage of that if I wanted. Call in a few favours and Im all but guaranteed that I become World Champion. Who does he have, Iris?
No one. Iris sipped at his drink. He removed his jacket, dark brown and the matching vest underneath. The fire crackled and the ashes fell behind the now burnt piece of wood. Another was added by Iris and he took a second sip of his drink.
What do you think I should do? Justin asked, twirling the drink in his hand. His hair wet with rain drops falling against his shoulders. The suit a shade darker from the water that had soaked through. You saw what Mark did for me last week on Meltdown. He went out there without me asking and got right in Mikeys face. The kid never backed down and he showed loyalty, thats more than Mikey has got from his long forgotten friends.
Iris turned back to the desk and filled his glass up again. The bottle was over half empty and Iris stepped back towards the fire. The heat offering a warm respite from the heavy winds outside mixed the water and the natural temperature of the room.
I wouldnt call it loyalty. Id call it defiance or stupid. Take your pick but it makes no difference. He went out and provoked the reigning Heavyweight Champion and for what?
Mark just wanted to let him know that I wasnt standing alone. He wanted to show that Cooper and Keaton are still as strong a unit as we ever have been. Sure were on different paths right now but when the time comes well get back together and at Kingdom Come hell be right by my side when I fight for the title.
All I saw was a guy speaking on your behalf. His words they might have been but dont fool yourself and believe that he was allowed to do that on his own accord. They let him walk through that curtain because they believed he was speaking for you.
He wasnt. I never asked him to.
Iris shook his head and turned to Justin. The fire burning bright and leaving an orange glow against Justins face with the flames dancing on the twist and turns of his mouth.
I believe you. They will not nor will Mikey Stormrage. Hes your problem, remember? Have you forgotten how difficult he was during the early months of your tag team? He is unstable, he listens to nobody but you and even that is like walking a tight rope. He is a boy playing a mans game and you cannot afford to have him running rogue out there. Especially not with so much on the line.
Ill speak with him about it but hes a grown man and a good friend. He wants me to become World Champion. Hes proud of me. Justin sipped at his drink, the glass now empty he placed it on the desk and stepped back towards the flame. I will not toss him aside or argue with him if he wishes to support me. Its difficult enough in this business when everyone is out for themselves to find an honest friend, I will not turn my back on the one person who has been with me the entire way. Im not Mikey Stormrage.
The only person? Oh, how quickly we forget. Iris eyes glistened as he looked into the flames. It was as if they were dancing in his eyes, a mix of orange, red, yellow and even black. When mixed together the flames, for just a split second, formed a black flame that burned more intensely than any of the rest.
Youre different. Youve been with me since I was a teenager. This past year has seen so many changes. Ive made changes and Ive had more success than ever. Just look at me now, Iris. Im in the main event of Kingdom Come fighting for the World Championship. Can you believe it? Im still trying to wrap my head around it.
Justin smiled and patted his old friend on the back.
Im happy for you. You worked hard and you deserve it. Im just warning you to be careful. Hes dangerous and you do not want to take him lightly. Iris tipped the remaining liquid into his mouth and swallowed, shaking his head as the alcohol left a bitter taste in his mouth. Youll find your room upstairs as always. Just mind your step because Ive had some painters up there doing the ceiling. Might be a few cans of paint still rolling about.
I will. Dont worry, Im always careful. As I will be with Mikey Stormrage. I know what a challenge he is. I know exactly what and who he is. He may doubt who I am but that should not make him despise me, it should make him fear me. Justin kneeled down and pushed his hands towards the fire, warming them and placing the palms against his cheeks. He heard Iris footsteps as he began walking away, the old oak door opened but the footsteps stopped.
I wasnt talking about Mikey. Its not him Im most worried about. Iris was covered by the shadows. Outside the edge of the flame and barely visible but the light from one of the outer rooms highlighted his left side. Mikey is known. You said it yourself, you know who he is and how he thinks. The man is paranoid and fearful that hes going to lose the championship again without defending it. He fears failure and that will only bring it faster. You are not like him. Hes a zebra who cannot change his stripes. He may convince himself that hes changed but everyone else can see that hes only torn at his own skin. You can change, you have changed. Youre the chameleon, always adapting to survive in this business. Six years and yet here you stand on the verge of becoming World Champion. You have that ability to survive unlike Mikey. Hes weak, hes crumbling under the pressure and that means hes yours for the taking.
Justin looked confused. If hes not talking about Mikey who is he talking about? The flames began to die out behind him. The room grew colder and the light slowly faded out. The wood in the fireplace was charred black and split, ashes scattered throughout.
Who should I fear if not Mikey? Justin asked.
Fear is not the word Id use. Though we often fear what we do not know and you must realise that his true intentions are not your own. Mark Keaton is unknown. You may think you know the boy but hes acted without your approval and spoken on your behalf. If he a zebra? I think not. This boy can change his stripes and will likely do it again when he finds a partner or is forced to hand over the Tag Titles. Is he a lion? A fierce creature and willing to tear the strong and weak apart without a moments notice. A vulture perhaps? Looking to eat from the dead.
Silence.
Well... which do you think he is? Justin demand, his voice thick with angst.
I dare not say. I do not know the answer. Mark Keaton is not just one beast or he has yet to show which one resides within him. That makes him dangerous. You do not know what he is and it is the unknown that should worry you. Trust him as you must but I beg you, dont bring him to ringside during your match with Mikey Stormrage.
That shocked Justin. He leaned back against the table and felt the bottle as his elbow bent. He unscrewed the top and filled a glass, he wasnt sure if it was his own or Iris and took a deep sip.
Why not? Hes my partner and I promised him wed make the walk together. Hes just as deserving as I am and without him I wouldnt be in the damn spot. I will not leave him behind, Iris! Tell me why you want to throw him away like some trash on the street? Are you jealous? Do you hate him because hes helped me reach heights you never could? Justin slammed his fist down on the table. Is it envy that has kept you away for so long? I havent seen you in months but here I am, standing in your study which is clearly not getting any use and it just so happens to be on the dawn of my crowning achievement. Perhaps it is you I should be wary of?
I am not here to argue with you. Youre right however, its been too long. Still, Mark is a dangerous man and you believe he wants the best for you but at what cost must you become World Champion? Is it worth throwing yourself away and turning back to the hate that once filled your heart? Youve come so far and I dont want to see you fall back into that trap. Mark Keaton will help you, yes he will do whatever it takes to see you become World Champion but is it worth it? If you have to screw Mikey Stormrage out of the title... is that the type of champion you want to be?
You dont think I can win. Justin clenched his fist and threw the glass into the fireplace, the glass smashed and fell amongst the ashes. I dont need to cheat. Ive proven that but yet my name gets dragged through the mud whenever a big match comes up. I have changed, Ive moved on but nobody else seems to have that ability. I can beat Mikey Stormrage without cheating, Mark Keaton isnt by my side to help me cheat. Hes with me because hes my friend and friends stick by each other. Though you wouldnt understand that, apparently. You want to see how far Im willing to go? Watch Ascension this and youll see me face Eve Taylor. I'll even make you a promise, unlike at Kingdom Come, Mark will not be ringside. Itll just be Eve against me and nothing to distract her. I dont know how many times I have to prove myself as a true and honest man but I hope that when I beat Eve Taylor by myself it will finally silence all the doubters.
Iris began to approached but Justin started walking towards the door and brushed past him. He stepped through the door and made his way to the end of the hallway to the front door of the house.
You dont have to go, Iris said.
Ive got a match to prepare for and it seems its no longer a singles contest so much work is left to be done. I didnt realise I was facing every single doubter who ever questioned me in this match. I forgot that Eve Taylor was supposed to win Lethal Lottery and I just got lucky. Must I say sorry to her for wrestling nearly an hour while she got to waltz into the match twenty spots later? I get it, Iris. You think Im going to slip back to my old ways because Im not on their level but just watch. Just tune in and see how I beat Eve Taylor. Not only do I hope youre watching but I hope Mikey is watching and he sees his girlfriend lose. I hope he sees that I dont need to bend the rules to walk out victorious against his girlfriend. And if I dont need to cheat against Eve than I certainly will not need to cheat against him.
I just want you to be a champion we can all be proud of.
Justin opened the door, the wind was strong and rain poured down from the sky.
I am. Im a champion not because of titles but because of the people I have around me. You were someone I thought I could trust to the end yet here we are. Youre just like Mikey, paranoid and fearful of Mark and I. Were the best tag team ever and I could not think of a better sight than for him and his new partner and I to stand in the ring as Kingdom Come ends with all three of us holding championships. That is what I dream for every night. I dont dream for myself, I dream for those I care about and when I face Eve Taylor I bet that Mark Keaton is going to be supporting me. Hell be backstage, cheering me on and Mikey Stormrage will be somewhere focusing on himself. He doesnt have true friends, he doesnt care about Eve Taylor, all he cares about is the title and that makes us different. It is that which will allow me to become World Heavyweight Champion.
Cooper smirked as the rain echoed off the roof.
After I beat Eve Taylor I hope to only leave one question unanswered.
What would that be? Iris asked.
Cooper turned and slammed the door shut. He ran his hand through his hair, staring up at the night sky. His car was parked to the right but he knew he couldnt drive. With a flick of his collar Cooper began walking in the rain. One final question running through his mind as the rain quickly soaked him yet again. Eve Taylor, whats your excuse?
Viola Moonlight
I'm Literally Just Here for WZCW
Eve Taylor received a summons from the Owner of WZCW Mr. Kenneth Banks for an important private meeting. She had never been called to his office this urgently before, let alone be called to his office for entirety of her career. This would be the first time Eve would walk into Banks' office since she signed a contract to join WZCW in 2014, when Eve looked to use the company as a platform to relaunch her modelling career, and for Mr. Banks to use her popularity as a model to attract new eyes on the product. Ever since, Eve has been directed to the General Managers, or the Mr. Banks' assistant, for any concerns she required addressing. All Mr. Banks become to Eve was a man who watched the company from the skybox, and signed the cheques, because of how little impact he had on her life as a wrestler for his company... but now, all of a sudden, he wanted to see her, and urgently.
It didn't take a genius to understand why now would be the time he needed to talk to Eve. After the impromptu bombshell she dropped on the audience, mentioning her contract and inferring that she had very little time left on it before she'd no longer be a contracted wrestler for WZCW, Mr. Banks would probably be fuming. These sorts of matters weren't exactly encouraged to discuss in such an open forum; contracts were a sacred bond between the company and the wrestler, and were one of the very few things wrestlers were told never to discuss openly. For all the words wrestlers are known to say, it was weird to have a restriction list, especially one that discusses money and time. Perhaps it was because Mr. Banks didn't want to have their superstars feel like they were just working a job, and keep the aura that "wrestlers want to wrestle, and it's not about the money." Perhaps it was the bad press he'd get for allowing someone like Eve to reach the end of her contract without ever discussing a new one, prompting him to quickly create this meeting. Either way, it didn't matter to Eve. Despite her victory over Mark Keaton, and beginning the process of rebuilding her momentum with a chance to take down Justin Cooper, the winner of the match she promised to win, she wasn't convinced that she should be continuing her career as a superstar.
She knew it was selfish of her, and probably a knee-jerk reaction to say that sh-
Eve lost her train of thought, and decided it was best to not delay the meeting any further. She walked a few steps at a faster pace towards the door of Mr. Banks, knocking on the office entrance. A few seconds had passed until Mr. Banks opened the door slightly ajar, unlocking it for Eve to let herself in. She was taken aback by Banks' decision to let Eve open the door herself, looking around to see if anybody was nearby. She did not find a single soul, and slowly entered the room, silently closing the door behind her. She turned around to see Kenneth Banks walking back to his desk. He didn't say much as Eve was left standing at the entrance, waiting for him to speak or address her. Since he did not do anything, Eve took the initiative and stepped forward to the desk, taking her own seat. As Eve sat down, placed her bag down, and was ready to talk, Mr. Banks took his time looking at his photos, admiring the accomplishments on the wall. Eve sat awkwardly, waiting for him to do something, but again, he did nothing to acknowledge her, or begin the meeting. She took the initiative.
"You wanted to see me?" Eve responded, breaking the silence with a cliche.
" 'With the time remaining on my contract with WZCW' " Mr. Banks quoted.
He turned around, looked at Eve, and leaned on the table. Eve was wondering what he had in store for her, and what kind of thoughts were running through his head.
"I'd like to make it clear that I did not call this meeting solely because of what you said in the ring on Ascension. Whilst I would like to discuss a new contract with you, and what you said did cause the shareholders to put pressure on me to keep you on the payroll, I am more concerned about your overall happiness here in WZCW."
Eve was a little confused. For a man she has only seen in person once before, in a meeting about contracts only, she found it surprising for Mr. Banks to care about her happiness and to not worry about her as a valuable commodity for his product. She wondered if this was a negotiating technique.
"Shortly after revealing the details of your contract expiry, you mentioned that you'd like to do what it takes to give back to the fans, providing them with some amazing matches. I find this to be noble of you, doing the best you have left on your current contract to leave on a high note. I hate it when wrestlers come in, and get lazy because we don't come to an agreement for a new contract. So, should you wish to not sign a contract, I'd like to thank you for still giving it your best efforts."
Mr. Banks stood back up, and reached over to the corner of his desk to grab a folder. Carefully, he opened it up, and placed it in front of Eve. She took the folder, and began reading the contents. The first page was a dead giveaway... it was a new contract to sign wi-
Mr. Banks snapped Eve's thoughts back to reality by firmly placing a pen next to her writing hand. She looked up at him for a quick second, before looking back at the contract to read.
"As much as I'd like all my employees to be happy, I can not, in good conscience, let you leave this company without doing my best to offer a contract we can agree on, and keep you here. You're a valuable asset to the company, Eve Taylor. From the moment you've arrived, to right on this very day, you've made yourself relevant, kept yourself relevant, proved your worth as a wrestler, and got the fans to care about what Eve Taylor was doing every week. When you signed a contract here, people were interested to see how the first ever supermodel would fair in the world of wrestling. Then you sided with Cerberus, and you kept their interest. You rose to the top of the mid-card, winning championships and defeating a majority of opponents in your way. You hyped yourself as the next World championship challenger, and now, you've told everyone your leaving. Whether this was all intentional or not, you've connected with that audience out there by keeping yourself in the spotlight. You put butts in seat, you sell merchandise, and you draw ratings."
Eve could do nothing but smirk at the pandering. After her performance in the Lottery, she couldn't be viewed as a valuable asset. She was merely a liability.
"If you're attempting to woo me, Mr. Banks, I suggest you should've started with a bunch of roses and a box of chocolates. It would've made things a lot more subtle than this spiel you're giving me about being a draw. Where are you getting these numbers from? I'd like to see the hard evidence."
Mr. Banks did nothing but smile.
"It doesn't take statistics and graphs to show you how important you are to this company. When you go out there to the ring to face Justin Cooper this week on Ascension, just look out into the crowd, and listen to their responses. You'll see how important you are here, and how important you are to them."
Eve didn't have anything to say, and remained silent.
"Look, I get it. We have our slumps. I mean, look at me right now. The roster is as small as it has been since the inception of WZCW, and I'm doing my best to keep this company afloat."
"Is that way you want to keep me? Because I'm a household name, and you'd rather not build up another wrestler in fear of them getting popular with the crowd, or adapt to WZCW?"
Mr. Banks laughed. "No, my dear. Even if we had a 10 page roster, you'd still be well sought after... I'm afraid you've missed my point. We all have hard times, and it is up to us to push through the dirt and grime to come out the other side with a smile on a face, and a desire to shoot for the stars. You can't let one single loss be the influencing factor on why you'd want to leave, or why you failed."
"But it was the single most important match of my entire career." Eve retorted. "I would've broken records, made history, and be involved in the biggest moment of my life. Now, I have to wait for another whole year to make this history, and by then, would I be as good as I am now? What if I'll never be this good again?"
"You don't have to be successful to be a successful wrestler."
These words shook Eve right to her very core. All of Eve's life has been revolved around attaining success. It was all she ever really craved. She wanted success, she wanted glory, she wanted fame. If she couldn't have a loving family, or someone to be loved by, then success was the seductive mistress she settled for. Success was always there for her when she did well, and it rewarded her with an overwhelming feeling of orgasmic ecstacy. Success was Eve's drug... and for another person to slap the meaning of success was a slap to Eve's face. It was something she never thought about before... what success could really mean.
"You're a former Eurasian champion. You're a former Elite Openweight champion, and the longest reigning in history... in almost an entire decade. You were apart of one of the best wrestling groups. I'd say you've had a very successful career thus far, in terms of achievements. What's one little loss? These fans certainly don't care about a little loss. They care about you, and they don't want to lose you."
Mr. Banks then reached for his draw, opened it, and pulled out something. He held it tight to his chest and looked Eve directly in the eye.
"There will be many opportunities in the future to win the big one, Eve. You're romantic interest took years to get the World title. Just because it didn't happen in one match doesn't mean you're doomed forever."
He opened the second folder, and handed it to Eve. She took a second take at the words on the page, unsure of what she was reading. She read it many times over, and even examining the signature of Mr Banks already printed on the page.
"Is this...?"
"Yes it is." Mr. Banks interrupted. "This is a second chance at becoming the number one contender to the World championship. As soon as you say the word, and sign the page, you'll be competing at Kingdom Come for a title opportunity at the World champion sometime after the event. This isn't a plea from us to entice you to stay, but a reward for your efforts in 2016 as the Elite champion, and defeating the World champion on two separate occasions. This was something that should've been done a long time ago, but with the Lottery restrictions, it was a little difficult to find a work around... but I am prepared to give you a very healthy contract, and a championship opportunity, for being a successful wrestler. You've earned it all, Eve."
Eve leaned back in her seat. Once again, she laughed.
"This sounds very much like a bribe, Mr. Banks." Eve responded. "You speak of happiness, and wanting to keep your stars happy. This is a quality I love from any boss, when they truly care about their employees... but to then go ahead and say that they'll make you happy by throwing more money on a contract, with a guaranteed shot at ascending the rankings, and a long-term contract, even if I can no longer wrestle any more... that's not satisfying someone's happiness, Mr. Banks. It's not about the money, and it's never been about the money. I'd wrestle in WZCW for less, because I love being in the ring, and proving to the world that I am the best by hard work. I don't want to work hard in an office like this, play politics, and force you to give me a World title opportunity like the one you've thrown at me. That isn't what I meant. I want to go out there, in the ring, and show how I am as much of a wrestler as any other person on this roster. I wanted to do that in the Lottery, and prove indefinitely that I am the best... but I failed, and now I must start from scratch. Yet, what is the point of starting from scratch when I can't convert, or find victory, when it matters most?"
"But you beat the World champion twice. You've earned an opportunity."
"That was the Lethal Lottery, and I lost. What you're offering me is something to tempt me in accepting your offer to re-sign with WZCW. I will not be bought like that, Mr. Banks."
Eve pushes back the guaranteed title shot at Kingdom Come. Mr. Banks brushes his face.
"Then tell me, Eve. What can I do to help you prove yourself a worthy wrestler? Please enlightenment me."
"This is my point, Kenneth. I don't want your help. I want to do everything on my own merit, and I'm going to do so on Ascension this week. Rebecca has given me a match against the winner of the Lethal Lottery, Justin Cooper, in a singles match. I beat his tag team partner the week prior, and now I get the chance at the other half of one the best tag teams we've got, and had. Everybody gets to experience the match between 'The Person Who Was Picked to Win' against 'The Person Who Shocked the World'. Just like my match with Garth Black and Mikey Stormrage when they were champions, or every challenger who faced me for my titles, I get to show the world what I'm made of, and that I'm one of the best. I get to answer the question I've been asking myself, and destroy all doubts I've had about myself... can I beat the number one contender for the World title? Am I still in the running? Until I get into that ring, and go toe-to-toe with Justin Cooper, and prove I can hang, I can't sign this contract."
Eve pushes the contract back to Mr. Banks.
"You know you're contract runs out after Kingdom Come, and you've just pushed back not only a new contract, but a guaranteed title contenders match at the event. You now have neither, and on top of that, you don't even have a match at all. If you don't take this contenders match, I'll have nothing for you, and you'll miss one last chance to prove yourself on the biggest stage. Tell me, what is your big plan?"
Eve smirked at Mr. Banks.
"Keep your eyes on Ascension, Mr. Banks. Watch my match against Justin Cooper. I want you to see the effort that I put into that match, and I want you to see how I entertain that crowd. I want you to do what you asked me to do, and I want you to see how they react to me out there. Feel the intensity of the crowd, watch them react to when I get hurt, and watch them cheer when I get rolling. Watch me bring the best competition I can bring against Justin Cooper, and watch them standing on their feet because the action is so explosive. Then, after the match has settled, and I've given those fans their money's worth, I want to listen to the words I'll have to say. Listen carefully, because I want you to have that pen ready to sign the match."
"What match?"
"The match at Kingdom Come that is going to prove that I am the very best, and a match that the entire world is itching to see. The biggest dream match you can think of involving Eve Taylor. I am going to go out there, and I'm going to lay out the challenge for Kingdom Come. If I win in this match, I will prove I am the best. If I lose in this match, I could walk out of that match on the greatest high note one could ask for, with the fans satisfied at my performance and going home to talk about that match for a long time."
Eve stands up from her chair. She grabs her handbag, preparing herself to leave. Mr Banks sits up, and looks at Eve directly in the eye.
"Are you sure this is what you want to do?"
"I've never been so sure in my life."
With that, Eve turned around and left Mr. Banks with his contracts and guaranteed opportunities to challenge for the title. Eve couldn't sign for a contenders match, nor could she sign a contract, without first proving to the world that she was still one of the best. She needed to go out there on what little time she had left on her contract, and show the entire world why she was hyped as the one to win the Lottery. She needed to become more than hype, and find a way to prove her worth. If she could not prove her worth, the least she could do was entertain the fans... and she had the perfect solution. Beyond giving Justin Cooper a run for his money, and a match the fans will deserve for being supporting her over the years, she needed the biggest match she could create to get her on the right track. She required an opponent of epic proportions, and one that the fans could view as a dream opponent. She needed an opponent who would test her skills... a final boss character who would stand in front of Eve, proud and tall, confident she could beat her with ease. Eve needed to feel the ultimate pressure, and overcome the biggest odds... she needed an opponent who could give her a match to prove her worth, and, should Eve lose, she could be Eve's final opponent...
"You knew this time would come." Eve muttered. "I hope you're ready, sweetheart."
Eve smirked at how Vis Imperium would react.
It didn't take a genius to understand why now would be the time he needed to talk to Eve. After the impromptu bombshell she dropped on the audience, mentioning her contract and inferring that she had very little time left on it before she'd no longer be a contracted wrestler for WZCW, Mr. Banks would probably be fuming. These sorts of matters weren't exactly encouraged to discuss in such an open forum; contracts were a sacred bond between the company and the wrestler, and were one of the very few things wrestlers were told never to discuss openly. For all the words wrestlers are known to say, it was weird to have a restriction list, especially one that discusses money and time. Perhaps it was because Mr. Banks didn't want to have their superstars feel like they were just working a job, and keep the aura that "wrestlers want to wrestle, and it's not about the money." Perhaps it was the bad press he'd get for allowing someone like Eve to reach the end of her contract without ever discussing a new one, prompting him to quickly create this meeting. Either way, it didn't matter to Eve. Despite her victory over Mark Keaton, and beginning the process of rebuilding her momentum with a chance to take down Justin Cooper, the winner of the match she promised to win, she wasn't convinced that she should be continuing her career as a superstar.
She knew it was selfish of her, and probably a knee-jerk reaction to say that sh-
Eve lost her train of thought, and decided it was best to not delay the meeting any further. She walked a few steps at a faster pace towards the door of Mr. Banks, knocking on the office entrance. A few seconds had passed until Mr. Banks opened the door slightly ajar, unlocking it for Eve to let herself in. She was taken aback by Banks' decision to let Eve open the door herself, looking around to see if anybody was nearby. She did not find a single soul, and slowly entered the room, silently closing the door behind her. She turned around to see Kenneth Banks walking back to his desk. He didn't say much as Eve was left standing at the entrance, waiting for him to speak or address her. Since he did not do anything, Eve took the initiative and stepped forward to the desk, taking her own seat. As Eve sat down, placed her bag down, and was ready to talk, Mr. Banks took his time looking at his photos, admiring the accomplishments on the wall. Eve sat awkwardly, waiting for him to do something, but again, he did nothing to acknowledge her, or begin the meeting. She took the initiative.
"You wanted to see me?" Eve responded, breaking the silence with a cliche.
" 'With the time remaining on my contract with WZCW' " Mr. Banks quoted.
He turned around, looked at Eve, and leaned on the table. Eve was wondering what he had in store for her, and what kind of thoughts were running through his head.
"I'd like to make it clear that I did not call this meeting solely because of what you said in the ring on Ascension. Whilst I would like to discuss a new contract with you, and what you said did cause the shareholders to put pressure on me to keep you on the payroll, I am more concerned about your overall happiness here in WZCW."
Eve was a little confused. For a man she has only seen in person once before, in a meeting about contracts only, she found it surprising for Mr. Banks to care about her happiness and to not worry about her as a valuable commodity for his product. She wondered if this was a negotiating technique.
"Shortly after revealing the details of your contract expiry, you mentioned that you'd like to do what it takes to give back to the fans, providing them with some amazing matches. I find this to be noble of you, doing the best you have left on your current contract to leave on a high note. I hate it when wrestlers come in, and get lazy because we don't come to an agreement for a new contract. So, should you wish to not sign a contract, I'd like to thank you for still giving it your best efforts."
Mr. Banks stood back up, and reached over to the corner of his desk to grab a folder. Carefully, he opened it up, and placed it in front of Eve. She took the folder, and began reading the contents. The first page was a dead giveaway... it was a new contract to sign wi-
Mr. Banks snapped Eve's thoughts back to reality by firmly placing a pen next to her writing hand. She looked up at him for a quick second, before looking back at the contract to read.
"As much as I'd like all my employees to be happy, I can not, in good conscience, let you leave this company without doing my best to offer a contract we can agree on, and keep you here. You're a valuable asset to the company, Eve Taylor. From the moment you've arrived, to right on this very day, you've made yourself relevant, kept yourself relevant, proved your worth as a wrestler, and got the fans to care about what Eve Taylor was doing every week. When you signed a contract here, people were interested to see how the first ever supermodel would fair in the world of wrestling. Then you sided with Cerberus, and you kept their interest. You rose to the top of the mid-card, winning championships and defeating a majority of opponents in your way. You hyped yourself as the next World championship challenger, and now, you've told everyone your leaving. Whether this was all intentional or not, you've connected with that audience out there by keeping yourself in the spotlight. You put butts in seat, you sell merchandise, and you draw ratings."
Eve could do nothing but smirk at the pandering. After her performance in the Lottery, she couldn't be viewed as a valuable asset. She was merely a liability.
"If you're attempting to woo me, Mr. Banks, I suggest you should've started with a bunch of roses and a box of chocolates. It would've made things a lot more subtle than this spiel you're giving me about being a draw. Where are you getting these numbers from? I'd like to see the hard evidence."
Mr. Banks did nothing but smile.
"It doesn't take statistics and graphs to show you how important you are to this company. When you go out there to the ring to face Justin Cooper this week on Ascension, just look out into the crowd, and listen to their responses. You'll see how important you are here, and how important you are to them."
Eve didn't have anything to say, and remained silent.
"Look, I get it. We have our slumps. I mean, look at me right now. The roster is as small as it has been since the inception of WZCW, and I'm doing my best to keep this company afloat."
"Is that way you want to keep me? Because I'm a household name, and you'd rather not build up another wrestler in fear of them getting popular with the crowd, or adapt to WZCW?"
Mr. Banks laughed. "No, my dear. Even if we had a 10 page roster, you'd still be well sought after... I'm afraid you've missed my point. We all have hard times, and it is up to us to push through the dirt and grime to come out the other side with a smile on a face, and a desire to shoot for the stars. You can't let one single loss be the influencing factor on why you'd want to leave, or why you failed."
"But it was the single most important match of my entire career." Eve retorted. "I would've broken records, made history, and be involved in the biggest moment of my life. Now, I have to wait for another whole year to make this history, and by then, would I be as good as I am now? What if I'll never be this good again?"
"You don't have to be successful to be a successful wrestler."
These words shook Eve right to her very core. All of Eve's life has been revolved around attaining success. It was all she ever really craved. She wanted success, she wanted glory, she wanted fame. If she couldn't have a loving family, or someone to be loved by, then success was the seductive mistress she settled for. Success was always there for her when she did well, and it rewarded her with an overwhelming feeling of orgasmic ecstacy. Success was Eve's drug... and for another person to slap the meaning of success was a slap to Eve's face. It was something she never thought about before... what success could really mean.
"You're a former Eurasian champion. You're a former Elite Openweight champion, and the longest reigning in history... in almost an entire decade. You were apart of one of the best wrestling groups. I'd say you've had a very successful career thus far, in terms of achievements. What's one little loss? These fans certainly don't care about a little loss. They care about you, and they don't want to lose you."
Mr. Banks then reached for his draw, opened it, and pulled out something. He held it tight to his chest and looked Eve directly in the eye.
"There will be many opportunities in the future to win the big one, Eve. You're romantic interest took years to get the World title. Just because it didn't happen in one match doesn't mean you're doomed forever."
He opened the second folder, and handed it to Eve. She took a second take at the words on the page, unsure of what she was reading. She read it many times over, and even examining the signature of Mr Banks already printed on the page.
"Is this...?"
"Yes it is." Mr. Banks interrupted. "This is a second chance at becoming the number one contender to the World championship. As soon as you say the word, and sign the page, you'll be competing at Kingdom Come for a title opportunity at the World champion sometime after the event. This isn't a plea from us to entice you to stay, but a reward for your efforts in 2016 as the Elite champion, and defeating the World champion on two separate occasions. This was something that should've been done a long time ago, but with the Lottery restrictions, it was a little difficult to find a work around... but I am prepared to give you a very healthy contract, and a championship opportunity, for being a successful wrestler. You've earned it all, Eve."
Eve leaned back in her seat. Once again, she laughed.
"This sounds very much like a bribe, Mr. Banks." Eve responded. "You speak of happiness, and wanting to keep your stars happy. This is a quality I love from any boss, when they truly care about their employees... but to then go ahead and say that they'll make you happy by throwing more money on a contract, with a guaranteed shot at ascending the rankings, and a long-term contract, even if I can no longer wrestle any more... that's not satisfying someone's happiness, Mr. Banks. It's not about the money, and it's never been about the money. I'd wrestle in WZCW for less, because I love being in the ring, and proving to the world that I am the best by hard work. I don't want to work hard in an office like this, play politics, and force you to give me a World title opportunity like the one you've thrown at me. That isn't what I meant. I want to go out there, in the ring, and show how I am as much of a wrestler as any other person on this roster. I wanted to do that in the Lottery, and prove indefinitely that I am the best... but I failed, and now I must start from scratch. Yet, what is the point of starting from scratch when I can't convert, or find victory, when it matters most?"
"But you beat the World champion twice. You've earned an opportunity."
"That was the Lethal Lottery, and I lost. What you're offering me is something to tempt me in accepting your offer to re-sign with WZCW. I will not be bought like that, Mr. Banks."
Eve pushes back the guaranteed title shot at Kingdom Come. Mr. Banks brushes his face.
"Then tell me, Eve. What can I do to help you prove yourself a worthy wrestler? Please enlightenment me."
"This is my point, Kenneth. I don't want your help. I want to do everything on my own merit, and I'm going to do so on Ascension this week. Rebecca has given me a match against the winner of the Lethal Lottery, Justin Cooper, in a singles match. I beat his tag team partner the week prior, and now I get the chance at the other half of one the best tag teams we've got, and had. Everybody gets to experience the match between 'The Person Who Was Picked to Win' against 'The Person Who Shocked the World'. Just like my match with Garth Black and Mikey Stormrage when they were champions, or every challenger who faced me for my titles, I get to show the world what I'm made of, and that I'm one of the best. I get to answer the question I've been asking myself, and destroy all doubts I've had about myself... can I beat the number one contender for the World title? Am I still in the running? Until I get into that ring, and go toe-to-toe with Justin Cooper, and prove I can hang, I can't sign this contract."
Eve pushes the contract back to Mr. Banks.
"You know you're contract runs out after Kingdom Come, and you've just pushed back not only a new contract, but a guaranteed title contenders match at the event. You now have neither, and on top of that, you don't even have a match at all. If you don't take this contenders match, I'll have nothing for you, and you'll miss one last chance to prove yourself on the biggest stage. Tell me, what is your big plan?"
Eve smirked at Mr. Banks.
"Keep your eyes on Ascension, Mr. Banks. Watch my match against Justin Cooper. I want you to see the effort that I put into that match, and I want you to see how I entertain that crowd. I want you to do what you asked me to do, and I want you to see how they react to me out there. Feel the intensity of the crowd, watch them react to when I get hurt, and watch them cheer when I get rolling. Watch me bring the best competition I can bring against Justin Cooper, and watch them standing on their feet because the action is so explosive. Then, after the match has settled, and I've given those fans their money's worth, I want to listen to the words I'll have to say. Listen carefully, because I want you to have that pen ready to sign the match."
"What match?"
"The match at Kingdom Come that is going to prove that I am the very best, and a match that the entire world is itching to see. The biggest dream match you can think of involving Eve Taylor. I am going to go out there, and I'm going to lay out the challenge for Kingdom Come. If I win in this match, I will prove I am the best. If I lose in this match, I could walk out of that match on the greatest high note one could ask for, with the fans satisfied at my performance and going home to talk about that match for a long time."
Eve stands up from her chair. She grabs her handbag, preparing herself to leave. Mr Banks sits up, and looks at Eve directly in the eye.
"Are you sure this is what you want to do?"
"I've never been so sure in my life."
With that, Eve turned around and left Mr. Banks with his contracts and guaranteed opportunities to challenge for the title. Eve couldn't sign for a contenders match, nor could she sign a contract, without first proving to the world that she was still one of the best. She needed to go out there on what little time she had left on her contract, and show the entire world why she was hyped as the one to win the Lottery. She needed to become more than hype, and find a way to prove her worth. If she could not prove her worth, the least she could do was entertain the fans... and she had the perfect solution. Beyond giving Justin Cooper a run for his money, and a match the fans will deserve for being supporting her over the years, she needed the biggest match she could create to get her on the right track. She required an opponent of epic proportions, and one that the fans could view as a dream opponent. She needed an opponent who would test her skills... a final boss character who would stand in front of Eve, proud and tall, confident she could beat her with ease. Eve needed to feel the ultimate pressure, and overcome the biggest odds... she needed an opponent who could give her a match to prove her worth, and, should Eve lose, she could be Eve's final opponent...
"You knew this time would come." Eve muttered. "I hope you're ready, sweetheart."
Eve smirked at how Vis Imperium would react.
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