MD98: El Califa Dragon vs. Atsushi Kiriyama
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Kozure Ōkami
[THE LONE WOLF CLUB]
Eerie silence pierces through a still night a sense of a storm having come to an end, the scene is recognisable from the last time we saw Atsushi with his mentor Takuma Hashikori. The clock face above the stone archway, that had encircled Atsushi and Hashikori shows the time of 12.27, some 27 minutes since we left the scene when the clock struck midnight. [THE LONE WOLF CLUB]
The sky line is still a murky blue-ish black, the richness of the colour seems to have increased though. The wispy silver clouds that had provided a contrast in light do not remain, instead they seem to have been filled in with an ominous inky black. The yellowy moonlight that had bathed the courtyard no longer prevails.
The silence is awkwardly broken, not with a planned forethought but an almost animalistic howl of grotesque pain. From the shadows of the clock tower archway emerges Takuma Hashikori. Gekitotsu Satsujin doesnt seem concerned at the sounds emanating from the battleground, walking briskly towards the comotion.
The next sounds we hear despite the movement of Hashikori towards the animalistic howls, is incredulity in the voice of Atsushi Mera in a disdainful tone for showing weakness in the compassion for the injured being.
Why do you help the weak? He is done, the others left him here to decompose.
He may be weak at this very moment, did the victor stride away like Susanoo or Ōkuninushi? You saw the weakness of the victors by leaving him here to fend for himself.
Susanoo or Ōkuninushi! You mock my serious with fairy tales and myth? When you disregarded my comments of your own infamy in the throes of mythology?
Atsushi what you have here is real life, this is not glorious the victors do not thrive, they survive. You come from something that made you glorious, you wish to take my wisdom back to what can make you glorious. I will not romanticize the barbarian ways of my former lifestyle.
Ha, the words of a weak and feeble old man I knew you would return Fuc arghhhh!!!
The new voice comes from the man in pain, each word that echoes forth does with obvious pain, sharp inhalation of each syllable before being able to finish his sentence. As the camera takes focus on the man lying in a foetal position on the gritty, dusty landscape. His face looks anguished with seemingly minimal damage, some small grazes, his bare torso conveys lacerations and the raising of welts.
A civilized welcome as always Shiro
Shiro slowly drags himself to his knees and spits at the feet of Hashikori, without letting his former ally finish his sentence. Noticeably trying to control the pain in his voice and stem his heavy breath, the man retorts
I saw you and your trained monkey lurking in the shadows as the bells tolled, real men fight dont linger in the darkness.
Hashikori smiles pleasantly, seemingly ignoring the insult.
Ah you have seen Atsushi then?
Hashikori continues without waiting for an answer from Shiro.
Pleasantries must be observed then! Shiro Kazama this is Atsushi he is the brother of
I know who he is! The whole of Japan knows who he is! Why is he slumming it with the likes of you?
Hashikori once again retorts unabashed from Shiros less than civil words.
Atsushi is here to learn the ways of Gekitotsu Satsujin.
Hayata will never agree to this!
Hayata as leader, has enemies like any leader has enemies. Are you Hayatas friend? Leaving you here like a dying animal?
For the first time Hashikoris words have a stern tone to them, trying to stress the importance of what he is saying to Shiro.
The strong survive and the weak die, or in your case run away.
Hashikori stomps on the face of Shiro Kazama and there is a crunch of bone and a spraying of blood from the nose of Shiro. Shiro bites straight back spitting blood from his mouth as it drips from his nose.
Is that all you have old man? You could easily finish me, as you finished Oyama, as you should of finished Hayata!
Hashikori bows his head and for the first time Atsushi walks forth from the shadows his face conveying an almost white hot rage. Before Atsushi can reach Shiro, Hashikori holds out his hand.
He mocks you? Yet all you do in respite is to break his nose?
The point has been made, he has been outcast and left to fend for himself. To prove himself without the strength of the others, if he returns he will have the respect of the others.
Why would I want your help old man? Your time has passed!
It is in the past Shiro you are correct, look at the boy though he is young, he is strong, he has training and athleticism that Yosuke Hayata does not.
Shiro Kazama raises his vision to Atsushi for the first time, his face now bearing the brunt of Hashikoris strike, blood spattered and his nose squashed in.
Kiriyama!
What did he call me?
Oyama Kiriyama the man that I finished.
Kagemusha!
Hashikori smirks to himself at Shiros words, whilst the reaction from Atsushi is in bewilderment at the connection between the two men.
What?
The Shadow Warrior Atsushi Kiriyama.
**SCENE FADES TO BLACK**
The sound of feet dashing back and forth across a wrestling ring is heard, as the scene comes into focus we see two unfamiliar athletes criss crossing back and forth in a ring, that has the letters GRC emblazoned on the apron. Surrounding the ring is state of the art gym equipment all looking brand new.
On the walls around the gym is various WZCW memorabilia, replica belts, promotional posters for past PPVs not to mention photo stills of various WZCW legends. As the camera pans round it finally rests on Becky Serra stood to the side of the ring, where the two guys are working out.
Welcome to local independent wrestling company Guerrilla Ring Combat! Today we are here ahead of the grand opening of their new training center, with two top prospects getting a very special privilege of using the centers facility WZCW has donated this state of the art ring, not to mention all the memorabilia you see!
So this is where all the hoopla is at
The camera swings around to where the new voice has come from, we see LeQuint Brown striding across the room towards Becky Serra, followed at a far slower pace by Atsushi Kiriyama. Kiriyama seems to be taking in the sparkling new surroundings with a callous attitude, as if he if above the training center.
LeQuint is wearing a black leather jacket obscuring a QT / RR t-shirt in the style of the AC /DC logo, baggy stone wash jeans slung so low from his waste so that the legs almost cover a pair of light brown boots. Kiriyama by contrast seems to be wearing a street version of his ring gear, black leather pants and a white t-shirt with the sleeves cut off, the print of a wolfs face inked into the fabric. Over the shirt is a red leather vest jacket, once again with a wolfs face inked into the back of the garment.
Mr Brown this is the first time anyone from WZCW has had the chance to talk to yourself or Kiriyama Atsushi
Young girl, Kiriyama is not here to speak to you, or your colleagues. Kiriyama is here to make a statement
Mr Brown correct me if Im wrong though, you are shameless self-promoter. You have no problem in hyping yourself or your client.
Kiriyama has started to stalk around the ring where the two trainees have stopped to spectate what is occurring outside of the ring. Both men seem a little apprehensive of the The Shadow Warrior although curiosity seems to linger on the words of Becky Serra and LeQuint Brown.
You are correct however, what sort of promoter would I be if I took centre stage when I have my client right here in our presence.
So if Kiriyama Atsushi is not here to speak to me, or my colleagues, what sort of statement is he here to make? We have seen his handheld videos, he is quite the orator. Is he here to shed light on the lack of cohesion in the Demon Foreigners tag team?
Lack of cohesion? Dear sweet girl, we put that to rest prior to our last match. The Demon Foreigners are living proof that laws are there to be defied. Kiriyama and Cuba will never be friends, they are at best acquaintances. That doesnt stop them wanting to garner success together. Kiriyama made that statement a month ago, like I said a few short seconds ago he is here to make a statement today.
Kiriyama slides into the ring, the two trainees stand back away, he slowly slides up on to his knees and into a crouching position. He motions the trainees towards him, they both charge at the same time. Kiriyama rolls through their attacks spring to his feet hitting the ropes and bouncing back with a double clothesline. One trainee bounces straight back up and is put back down with an arm-trap body slam. The second trainee is slower returning to his feet allowing Kiriyama to bounce off the ropes THE BLACK SAVIOUR!!!!
The second trainee crashes to the canvas after taking Kiriyamas patented knee kick.. Kiriyama doesnt relent though as the first trainee who has once again return to his feet is taken over with an arm-trap northern lights suplex. Kiriyama rolls right through though CHILD OF GOD!!!
Kiriyamas vicious submission manoeuvre ripping at the neck and shoulder of the trainee who begins to scream in pain. A prolonged maniacal roar echoes from the mouth of Kiriyama, as smug laughter from LeQuint Brown fills the air.
***************
The now familiar static cuts the transmission of Kiriyama torturing the independent wrestler. Once again the shaky handheld greyscale recording of Kiriyamas face in full focus. The sounds of crickets buzz away, as well as various species of nocturnal wildlife. Kiriyama is breathing steadily and breaks his silence with nothing more than a hushed whisper.
I remember sitting in a world history class one day close to my senior graduation, hearing the quote of an English Prime Minister, the mans name Benjamin Disraeli. When men are pure, laws are useless; when men are corrupt, laws are broken. At the age of 19 I took it as black and white, with no thought on his quote being facile or meaningless.
As El Califa tackled me preventing me from saving my tag team partner, for some reason this sprang into my mind for the first time in almost 7 years, having stated all laws are there to be broken. To break the status quo of what has become the norm for The Demon Foreigners. The torture that my partner endures on a continual basis, yet being unable to break the pain barrier?
These are all laws, not to govern the masses, but that govern humanity, regardless of colour race or creed. El Califa breaks the laws of gravity only to crash down on his opponents. Like a Phoenix from the flames flying gracefully, is he in full flight? Or is he at his weakest point? He crashes to the canvas crushing his pray, yet has he burnt himself out? So next time out he will raise himself from the ashes?
Kiriyama lifts a flip top metal lighter in the view of the camera, flipping it open in the process, it produces a maintained flame of about an inch high. Kiriyama stares at it for a few seconds in quiet awe, before running the fingers on his left hand through the flames.
It makes me wonder if you can survive the fire and live with the resurrection, can you destroy the new life after surviving the desctruction of the old? Thats what I plan on finding out El Califa. Dragones bested my tag team partner and I in tag team action. What happens though when the fire is met with fire?
My fire is just as torturous, whether it is sapping the consciousness of a body in to a lifeless form with The Black Saviour, or ripping sinew and flesh with The Child of God.
Kiriyama snaps shut the light extinguishing the slightest pale glow from his face, despite the greyscale. He raises his left hand to the camera his fingers darkened from the heat they were subjected to.
These questions cant be answered stood here! El Califa will have to stand on his own two feet, like I am standing on my own two feet at Meltdown. I dont wish to maintain the status quo, unlike Benjamin Disraeli I am not going to be held corruptible for the laws that are there to be broken
The modern world works in shades of grey, not blankets of black and white. The status quo says things cannot happen, these to me are mere suggestions for a safe and easy life. I disregarded the safety in my life when I took to the streets. El Califa disregards safety every time he steps in the ring. I maintain
LAWS ARE THERE TO BE DEFIED!
**SCENE CUTS TO STATIC**
Ty Burna
Getting Noticed By Management
Victorious once again, yet why does he feel such an empty hollow ring to the title as he carries it? What good is being a tag team champion if you defeat only one person? He does not take pride like the previous champions. Paper champion, we hold these titles by default, we did not earn this!
Suddenly the scene opens in El Califa's Villa, and immediately the World Tag Team Title goes flying across the room, hitting the adjacent wall with a loud thud. It falls to the ground undamaged as El Califa paces back and forth in his villa by himself. He had done everything to make the match as honorable as possible, but it was a lost cause. Celeste was forced to defend her titles on her own. Califa didn't care about karma as many suggested, he wanted to win the titles fair and square.
El Califa: Every drip of sweat. Every drop of blood. El Califa and Amber Warren put everything they had into getting to the top. And for what? To be anointed like the favorite son and daughter of WZCW? To be handed the titles on a silver platter?! El Califa will not accept this!
Califa walks over to the title with purpose, grabbing it off the ground and dragging it along the ground over to the corner of the room. A medium sized safe sits, trophies littering the top of the safe. Califa picks one up and reads the inscription before shaking his head.
El Califa: He earned this in a one night tournament. Facing the very best on equal terms. No, Califa was at a disadvantage. He was hated in this company and they did everything they could to keep me down! Califa is from the streets, he has never accepted any hand out. And so he cannot honestly carry this title with pride. Not yet. Not until we prove ourselves worthy as champions. We carry these titles but they do not belong to us!
Califa places the trophy down and spins the dial on the safe a few times before the click confirms it's unlocked. He opens the safe and tosses the Tag Title into the safe. As he goes to close it he suddenly he looks down at the bottom shelf of the safe. An old Trac phone, a sticky note, and a stack of $100 bills rubber banded together sit together in a baggie. He grabs the bag and opens it, flipping his thumb across the bills for a moment before looking down at the note. The name Maria and a phone number. The temptress. Califa studies the number for a few moments, before looking down at the Tag Team Title. He lowers his head for a bit before slamming the door shut and spinning the dial one final time.
El Califa: El Califa must take his mind off things.
He turns on the trac phone and dials the numbers on the phone. Though this was a long time ago, he knew inside that it would still work. He hits send and speaker as he walks back to his bedroom in the villa. He tosses the phone down on the bed as it rings, Califa shedding the muscle shirt he has on as he opens his closet, deciding upon which suit to wear when suddenly a female's voice picks up.
Maria: Ay Papi. I was waiting for this call.
El Califa turns to the phone as he drags out a black suit and a red shirt and tosses it next to the phone. With his head turned away from the camera he unties his mask and slips it off his face and sets it aside. He picks up the phone, his back still to the camera, revealing the various tattoos adorning his back and shoulders.
El Califa: El......I could use some relaxation tonight mami.
Maria: I know just the place. Meet me at Geishas in an hour. Oh and Califa?
El Califa: Si?
Maria: I've been expecting you for a long time.
The phone hangs up and Califa looks down at the phone for a few moments before the scene fades away. It opens up again to outside Geishas Lounge, with El Califa's SUV pulling it up. As he parks and turns the vehicle off, his regular phone goes off and he picks it up, with Amber showing up on the Caller ID. He holds it to his ear as he answers.
El Califa: Nate.
El Califa: No El Calfia cannot make it to the gym tonight......El Califa understands. We shall speak tomorrow. You and Amber have free reign of the villa tonight, he has left you some money on the counter as well if you need it.
A few moments pass as Califa runs his hand up over his more subtle black mask.
El Califa: Si, take care of her Nate.
Califa hangs his phone up before exiting the vehicle. He adjusts his suit jacket, his diamond chain swinging back and forth across his red silk shirt. He tosses the keys to the valet before passing by the line and the bouncer lets him pass through. As he enters the bass is thumping, but rather than a party atmosphere as other clubs, it was toned down, dark blue lighting covers the entire club, private tables and couches line the walls and numerous couples slowly grinding to the beat of the heavy R&B. Califa takes a deep breath as he scans the area, his thoughts running in his mind. This was not a good idea for him. Not now, not with Amber and Nate back waiting for him. His musings are interrupted however as an arm slinks across his waist, long luscious raven locks falling around his shoulders as a woman leans in to him, her lips just next to his ear.
Maria: It's about time you showed up, Califa.
Her tone, her touch, every sense in Califa shivered as if in anticipation. He leans his head in to her as if on instinct, his hand moving to hers as he turns around towards her. Maria. Poison and Passion all in one. Her curves press up to him, her arms wrapping around his neck as she smirks, a smile that would melt any man and make them her toy. She reaches back, slowly lifting his mask up as she leans in, her lips finding his which he responds to in kind. It had been too long for Califa, constantly fighting, always training. As she withdraws from him, the smirk remains, the ruby red lipstick glistening under the blue lights. She slides Califa's mask back down as she takes his hand, leading him to the darkest most discrete corner of Geishas. Already prepared is a bottle of the finest tequila and two glasses on the table in front of the small wrap around couch. She moves ahead of Califa and slinks down to the couch, motioning for Califa to join her. Whatever inhibitions Califa had about this, evaporated in that moment. He sits down next to her, his leg crossed as he puts an arm around her as the DJ continues to spin some down tempo beats.
Maria: Papi...about that night at Dolce's....
Califa shakes his head as he reaches for a glass, moving his mask up slightly and taking a drink.
El Califa: No words on that night Maria. El Califa only wants this to be about tonight.
Maria studies Califa for a moment, as best as one can when looking at a masked man but the familiar smirk returns as she snuggles into the crook of his arm, playing with his diamond chain.
Maria: You have enough riches, why do you continue putting yourself through all that Papi? Why chase gold when you already have diamonds?
El Califa: The rush, the feeling of being called the best. He has earned every accolade he can Mami, however, lo único que quiere es que esta vida que nunca termina. Esto es lo que El Califa es. (all he wants is for this life to never end. This is who El Califa is.)
Maria: Eso es lo que usted cree que El Califa es. Pero yo sé mejor, Om ... (That is who you believe El Califa is. But I know better, Om....)
El Califa shakes his head and runs a hand through her hair absentmindedly, gaining her attention as she stops mid sentence. She closes her eyes as her fingers continue running along the diamonds of his chain.
Maria: I know the real you. What lies underneath that mask Papi. I know the struggle you went through. Run off with me, put it all behind you. You will never have to struggle with me Papi.
El Califa: You know what happened the last time you promised him that Maria.
Maria: We were young and stupid then. Our wings had just been freed from those harsh nights. We have both changed....Papi. Please.
Maria suddenly sits up and leans in to Califa, her hands wrapped around the diamond chain as her lips are just inches from his.
Maria: I no longer need these Califa. The only diamond I need is you.
She presses her lips to his once more, craving and visceral in nature as she wraps her arms around him. She slides onto his lap, brushing her hair back before leaning back down into Califa. Califa cannot help but reply in earnest. Her poison had grabbed hold once again. She slowly breaks the kiss as she leans up very slowly, her eyes staring towards him, her hair slightly messy, yet her eyes flashed like a predator holding down it's prey. What could possibly strike down such a powerful dragon but the simplest forms of lethality? She stands slowly and without a word takes Califa's hand, leading him to the dance floor as she presses her back to his chest, her head leaning up onto his shoulder as they grind together, his hands around her waist as the song continues on strong. The scene fades away with Maria leaning up and kissing Califa once more.
Maria: Let's go to my place.
The scene shifts to Califa and Maria in his SUV, the music down low as Calfia focuses on the road, Maria leaning against the door and biting her lip seductively. Califa looks to her, and nods his head slowly, and soon he turns a corner, pulling up to a set of penthouses. They park and Califa gets out of the vehicle, walking around to the other side as he opens the door for her. Maria slinks out. They walk up to the penthouse suites and through the doors. Making a bee line for the elevator they barely even pay mind to the door man. Upon entering the elevator Maria is all over Califa once more, her lips finding his until the elevator door opens once more. They walk through and into the hallway, walking to the last door. She slides her key in and unlocks it, unveiling a well lit posh apartment. She tosses her keys and handbag to the side before turning towards Califa and arches her back slightly as she leans against the counter.
Maria: Do you like the view?
Califa barely pays attention to the windows to the side as he cannot take his gaze off of her. He reaches out, wanting, needing her right now. She gently pushes his hand down as she shakes her head.
Maria: Not yet Papi. Let me slip into something more comfortable.
Maria pushes off the counter and walks to the back bedroom as Califa sits down on one of the white couches, his hand rubbing over the top of his mask. A sigh escapes him as it seems like it's been forever since he's taken a breath. Nerves return as do some sort of semblance of rational thought as he remembers his cell phone. He reaches into his jacket and retrieves it, finally seeing the five text messages and three missed calls. As he flips through the messages his body language changes. It was clear that this was a serious issue. He stands and places the phone back in his pocket when suddenly..
Maria: Papi.....
Califa turns and his jaw drops, as Maria walks in wearing a negligee, nearly sheer everywhere as Califa takes a deep breath. She walks over to him and slowly takes his jacket off of him, her hands trembling with anticipation as she moves to the buttons. Just then Califa's phone goes off again and Califa looks down to his jacket.
Maria: Forget them Papi, this night is just for us.
Califa closes his eyes behind the mask, the mental thought of Amber crying and in need of guidance and help flashing through his mind. But the intoxicating scent of her perfume, it clouds his judgement with each passing moment. Finally he opens his eyes, his shirt undone completely.
El Califa: El.....Maria....I...
Maria: No Papi, forget about them! Just focus on me!
Desperation. It was not El Califa that needed her. No it was her that needed him. He was the only thing that justified her. He was the one that got away from her charms, and he was the only one that could escape. He slowly reaches up and takes her arms in his hands, slowly shaking his head.
El Califa: No Maria...She needs me.
Maria: Who? Your young project? You choose her over what I give you?
El Califa: This is the final time you poison my mind, and cloud my judgement Maria. El Califa will not belong to you.
The look on Maria's face, one of wanting and needing, suddenly changes, that of scorn and hate as she grits her teeth.
Maria: I knew it. Siempre lo has hecho esto Omar! ¿Qué la hace mejor que yo! Ve a buscar a tu chica blanca entonces, sólo sé que no voy a esperar por ti nunca más Califa! (You have always done this Omar! What makes her better than me! Go get your white girl then, just know that I won't wait around for you anymore Califa!)
El Califa: It's not like that Maria.
Maria: Isn't it always like that Califa? Then if not what is she to you?
Califa stares her down before kneeling down and picking up his jacket, slinging it back on and straightening the collar.
El Califa: My partner. The one I trust in the heat of battle!
Maria suddenly slaps Califa across the mask, causing his head to shift to the side slightly. He shakes his head and tosses his hands up as he walks past Maria, amid a flurry of screaming and cursing in Spanish towards him. He tones it out as he opens the door and closes it quietly. The camera remains on Maria who screams in frustration as she tosses a flower vase across the room, mimicking Califa's earlier actions in his villa. The scene fades out and back to Califa's villa as Nate paces back and forth with his cell phone to his ear. He is screaming into the phone as one can hear Amber crying loudly in the other room. Suddenly the door bursts open and Califa walks in, shrugging off his jacket. Nate turns and stares down Califa, as if he were ready to kill him. Califa shrugs the look off as he looks around the room.
El Califa: Where is Amber?
Nate points back to the bedroom, too furious to speak. Califa rushes back to the bedroom, Amber curled up on the bed, tears streaming down her face. As Califa enters the room Amber sits up and looks to him.
Amber: Califa?
Califa walks over and hugs her, Amber too in shock to really respond. Califa lowers his head, his voice weak almost.
El Califa: Amber Warren. I am sorry. I should have been there for you.
Amber's mouth open slightly as she wipes away the tears but quickly wraps her arms around Califa, hugging him tightly.
El Califa: I am proud to be your tag team partner. I am even prouder to be Tag Team Champion with you. I lost sight on what was important and focused too much on how I felt without taking your happiness into consideration. I cannot apologize enough.
Amber: Califa....you're...you're not speaking in the third person.
El Califa: Damn the way I speak, this is my truth to you Amber Warren. I have been a horrible partner, and I abandoned you when you needed me most. I abandoned you at our greatest success. And for what? Nothing more than to realize something I should have figured out a long time ago. It took you to remind me of that Amber Warren.
Amber nods her head as she closes her eyes, Califa's presence calming her down as the tears stop. She holds onto him as he lifts his head up.
Amber: What is happening to me El Califa?
El Califa: The Dragon inside you Amber is awakening. Either you become it's master, or it will consume you.
The words are blunt, but there was no need to hide it anymore. Califa himself went through the very process, but he had no one to guide his way. It was up to him to help her become the master of her own Dragon. Amber simply nods as if this satisfied her question.
Amber: I think...I think I need sleep.
Califa nods and slowly let's go of Amber. She forces a smile as she wipes away the tears before sliding under the blankets. Califa sits on the edge of the bed as several moments pass. Soon Amber is sleeping as Califa watches over her as the scene fades out to Califa standing out on a dock overlooking the river. Late night had come, the beginning tendrils of sunrise beginning to take it's hold of the sky. Gone is his suit, and in place is a black hoodie with the hood pulled up over his head, and black baggy jeans. His arms are crossed briefly before reaching into his hoodie pockets and producing the baggie from earlier, the Trac Phone, note, and stack of $100's still inside.
El Califa: This is my old life. I thus cleanse myself of the sins of the past.
He opens the bag and soon takes out the stack of $100's. He tosses it out into the river, the money sinking quickly.
El Califa: The sins of ill gotten means.
Next the Trac Phone is thrown far into the river, a small splash the only confirmation.
El Califa: The sins of temptation.
Finally the note. Califa stares at it for a few moments before crumpling it up in his hand. Instead of tossing it in the river he takes out a lighter and sets it alight, holding the paper for a few moments as the fire quickly devours the note.
El Califa: The sins of my mistakes.
Califa looks out at the river pondering for a few moments before taking a deep breath.
El Califa: El Califa's past shaped who he is, but it will never define who it is under this mask! From this day forward the past shall remain buried, just a reminder of what he has in his life now. She said El Califa was the diamond for her. Well....
Califa reaches into his pocket once more and retrieves his diamond chain. He stares down at it for a moment before that too is tossed into the river.
El Califa: Why chase gold when he already has diamonds? Because diamonds mean nothing if they can be merely bought. And just as being a champion can never be simply owned, so too will Califa never belong to another. Except for one person.
Califa looks back and leans down, picking up something that can't be seen in the darkness. He lifts it up and the glisten of gold suddenly reveals the WZCW Tag Team Title.
El Califa: He belongs to Amber Warren as her Tag Team Partner. And no matter what, he shall be by her side. No one can stop us. Los Magnificos Dragones are tag team champions for a reason. Come all challengers for our titles, we shall battle you back each and every week. We did not win the titles as I saw fit, but damn it El Califa will make sure we fight every week and defend these titles like the proper champions that they are!
The sun begins to slowly peak out across the horizon, the light shining brightly upon the belt as Califa's hood is brushed off his head from the wind.
El Califa: So bring on your Demon Foreigners. Bring on whoever wishes to take a shot at us. For we shall reign eternally......
The scene suddenly cuts to black.
El Califa: And the whole world will hear us dragons roar!
Suddenly the scene opens in El Califa's Villa, and immediately the World Tag Team Title goes flying across the room, hitting the adjacent wall with a loud thud. It falls to the ground undamaged as El Califa paces back and forth in his villa by himself. He had done everything to make the match as honorable as possible, but it was a lost cause. Celeste was forced to defend her titles on her own. Califa didn't care about karma as many suggested, he wanted to win the titles fair and square.
El Califa: Every drip of sweat. Every drop of blood. El Califa and Amber Warren put everything they had into getting to the top. And for what? To be anointed like the favorite son and daughter of WZCW? To be handed the titles on a silver platter?! El Califa will not accept this!
Califa walks over to the title with purpose, grabbing it off the ground and dragging it along the ground over to the corner of the room. A medium sized safe sits, trophies littering the top of the safe. Califa picks one up and reads the inscription before shaking his head.
El Califa: He earned this in a one night tournament. Facing the very best on equal terms. No, Califa was at a disadvantage. He was hated in this company and they did everything they could to keep me down! Califa is from the streets, he has never accepted any hand out. And so he cannot honestly carry this title with pride. Not yet. Not until we prove ourselves worthy as champions. We carry these titles but they do not belong to us!
Califa places the trophy down and spins the dial on the safe a few times before the click confirms it's unlocked. He opens the safe and tosses the Tag Title into the safe. As he goes to close it he suddenly he looks down at the bottom shelf of the safe. An old Trac phone, a sticky note, and a stack of $100 bills rubber banded together sit together in a baggie. He grabs the bag and opens it, flipping his thumb across the bills for a moment before looking down at the note. The name Maria and a phone number. The temptress. Califa studies the number for a few moments, before looking down at the Tag Team Title. He lowers his head for a bit before slamming the door shut and spinning the dial one final time.
El Califa: El Califa must take his mind off things.
He turns on the trac phone and dials the numbers on the phone. Though this was a long time ago, he knew inside that it would still work. He hits send and speaker as he walks back to his bedroom in the villa. He tosses the phone down on the bed as it rings, Califa shedding the muscle shirt he has on as he opens his closet, deciding upon which suit to wear when suddenly a female's voice picks up.
Maria: Ay Papi. I was waiting for this call.
El Califa turns to the phone as he drags out a black suit and a red shirt and tosses it next to the phone. With his head turned away from the camera he unties his mask and slips it off his face and sets it aside. He picks up the phone, his back still to the camera, revealing the various tattoos adorning his back and shoulders.
El Califa: El......I could use some relaxation tonight mami.
Maria: I know just the place. Meet me at Geishas in an hour. Oh and Califa?
El Califa: Si?
Maria: I've been expecting you for a long time.
The phone hangs up and Califa looks down at the phone for a few moments before the scene fades away. It opens up again to outside Geishas Lounge, with El Califa's SUV pulling it up. As he parks and turns the vehicle off, his regular phone goes off and he picks it up, with Amber showing up on the Caller ID. He holds it to his ear as he answers.
El Califa: Nate.
El Califa: No El Calfia cannot make it to the gym tonight......El Califa understands. We shall speak tomorrow. You and Amber have free reign of the villa tonight, he has left you some money on the counter as well if you need it.
A few moments pass as Califa runs his hand up over his more subtle black mask.
El Califa: Si, take care of her Nate.
Califa hangs his phone up before exiting the vehicle. He adjusts his suit jacket, his diamond chain swinging back and forth across his red silk shirt. He tosses the keys to the valet before passing by the line and the bouncer lets him pass through. As he enters the bass is thumping, but rather than a party atmosphere as other clubs, it was toned down, dark blue lighting covers the entire club, private tables and couches line the walls and numerous couples slowly grinding to the beat of the heavy R&B. Califa takes a deep breath as he scans the area, his thoughts running in his mind. This was not a good idea for him. Not now, not with Amber and Nate back waiting for him. His musings are interrupted however as an arm slinks across his waist, long luscious raven locks falling around his shoulders as a woman leans in to him, her lips just next to his ear.
Maria: It's about time you showed up, Califa.
Her tone, her touch, every sense in Califa shivered as if in anticipation. He leans his head in to her as if on instinct, his hand moving to hers as he turns around towards her. Maria. Poison and Passion all in one. Her curves press up to him, her arms wrapping around his neck as she smirks, a smile that would melt any man and make them her toy. She reaches back, slowly lifting his mask up as she leans in, her lips finding his which he responds to in kind. It had been too long for Califa, constantly fighting, always training. As she withdraws from him, the smirk remains, the ruby red lipstick glistening under the blue lights. She slides Califa's mask back down as she takes his hand, leading him to the darkest most discrete corner of Geishas. Already prepared is a bottle of the finest tequila and two glasses on the table in front of the small wrap around couch. She moves ahead of Califa and slinks down to the couch, motioning for Califa to join her. Whatever inhibitions Califa had about this, evaporated in that moment. He sits down next to her, his leg crossed as he puts an arm around her as the DJ continues to spin some down tempo beats.
Maria: Papi...about that night at Dolce's....
Califa shakes his head as he reaches for a glass, moving his mask up slightly and taking a drink.
El Califa: No words on that night Maria. El Califa only wants this to be about tonight.
Maria studies Califa for a moment, as best as one can when looking at a masked man but the familiar smirk returns as she snuggles into the crook of his arm, playing with his diamond chain.
Maria: You have enough riches, why do you continue putting yourself through all that Papi? Why chase gold when you already have diamonds?
El Califa: The rush, the feeling of being called the best. He has earned every accolade he can Mami, however, lo único que quiere es que esta vida que nunca termina. Esto es lo que El Califa es. (all he wants is for this life to never end. This is who El Califa is.)
Maria: Eso es lo que usted cree que El Califa es. Pero yo sé mejor, Om ... (That is who you believe El Califa is. But I know better, Om....)
El Califa shakes his head and runs a hand through her hair absentmindedly, gaining her attention as she stops mid sentence. She closes her eyes as her fingers continue running along the diamonds of his chain.
Maria: I know the real you. What lies underneath that mask Papi. I know the struggle you went through. Run off with me, put it all behind you. You will never have to struggle with me Papi.
El Califa: You know what happened the last time you promised him that Maria.
Maria: We were young and stupid then. Our wings had just been freed from those harsh nights. We have both changed....Papi. Please.
Maria suddenly sits up and leans in to Califa, her hands wrapped around the diamond chain as her lips are just inches from his.
Maria: I no longer need these Califa. The only diamond I need is you.
She presses her lips to his once more, craving and visceral in nature as she wraps her arms around him. She slides onto his lap, brushing her hair back before leaning back down into Califa. Califa cannot help but reply in earnest. Her poison had grabbed hold once again. She slowly breaks the kiss as she leans up very slowly, her eyes staring towards him, her hair slightly messy, yet her eyes flashed like a predator holding down it's prey. What could possibly strike down such a powerful dragon but the simplest forms of lethality? She stands slowly and without a word takes Califa's hand, leading him to the dance floor as she presses her back to his chest, her head leaning up onto his shoulder as they grind together, his hands around her waist as the song continues on strong. The scene fades away with Maria leaning up and kissing Califa once more.
Maria: Let's go to my place.
The scene shifts to Califa and Maria in his SUV, the music down low as Calfia focuses on the road, Maria leaning against the door and biting her lip seductively. Califa looks to her, and nods his head slowly, and soon he turns a corner, pulling up to a set of penthouses. They park and Califa gets out of the vehicle, walking around to the other side as he opens the door for her. Maria slinks out. They walk up to the penthouse suites and through the doors. Making a bee line for the elevator they barely even pay mind to the door man. Upon entering the elevator Maria is all over Califa once more, her lips finding his until the elevator door opens once more. They walk through and into the hallway, walking to the last door. She slides her key in and unlocks it, unveiling a well lit posh apartment. She tosses her keys and handbag to the side before turning towards Califa and arches her back slightly as she leans against the counter.
Maria: Do you like the view?
Califa barely pays attention to the windows to the side as he cannot take his gaze off of her. He reaches out, wanting, needing her right now. She gently pushes his hand down as she shakes her head.
Maria: Not yet Papi. Let me slip into something more comfortable.
Maria pushes off the counter and walks to the back bedroom as Califa sits down on one of the white couches, his hand rubbing over the top of his mask. A sigh escapes him as it seems like it's been forever since he's taken a breath. Nerves return as do some sort of semblance of rational thought as he remembers his cell phone. He reaches into his jacket and retrieves it, finally seeing the five text messages and three missed calls. As he flips through the messages his body language changes. It was clear that this was a serious issue. He stands and places the phone back in his pocket when suddenly..
Maria: Papi.....
Califa turns and his jaw drops, as Maria walks in wearing a negligee, nearly sheer everywhere as Califa takes a deep breath. She walks over to him and slowly takes his jacket off of him, her hands trembling with anticipation as she moves to the buttons. Just then Califa's phone goes off again and Califa looks down to his jacket.
Maria: Forget them Papi, this night is just for us.
Califa closes his eyes behind the mask, the mental thought of Amber crying and in need of guidance and help flashing through his mind. But the intoxicating scent of her perfume, it clouds his judgement with each passing moment. Finally he opens his eyes, his shirt undone completely.
El Califa: El.....Maria....I...
Maria: No Papi, forget about them! Just focus on me!
Desperation. It was not El Califa that needed her. No it was her that needed him. He was the only thing that justified her. He was the one that got away from her charms, and he was the only one that could escape. He slowly reaches up and takes her arms in his hands, slowly shaking his head.
El Califa: No Maria...She needs me.
Maria: Who? Your young project? You choose her over what I give you?
El Califa: This is the final time you poison my mind, and cloud my judgement Maria. El Califa will not belong to you.
The look on Maria's face, one of wanting and needing, suddenly changes, that of scorn and hate as she grits her teeth.
Maria: I knew it. Siempre lo has hecho esto Omar! ¿Qué la hace mejor que yo! Ve a buscar a tu chica blanca entonces, sólo sé que no voy a esperar por ti nunca más Califa! (You have always done this Omar! What makes her better than me! Go get your white girl then, just know that I won't wait around for you anymore Califa!)
El Califa: It's not like that Maria.
Maria: Isn't it always like that Califa? Then if not what is she to you?
Califa stares her down before kneeling down and picking up his jacket, slinging it back on and straightening the collar.
El Califa: My partner. The one I trust in the heat of battle!
Maria suddenly slaps Califa across the mask, causing his head to shift to the side slightly. He shakes his head and tosses his hands up as he walks past Maria, amid a flurry of screaming and cursing in Spanish towards him. He tones it out as he opens the door and closes it quietly. The camera remains on Maria who screams in frustration as she tosses a flower vase across the room, mimicking Califa's earlier actions in his villa. The scene fades out and back to Califa's villa as Nate paces back and forth with his cell phone to his ear. He is screaming into the phone as one can hear Amber crying loudly in the other room. Suddenly the door bursts open and Califa walks in, shrugging off his jacket. Nate turns and stares down Califa, as if he were ready to kill him. Califa shrugs the look off as he looks around the room.
El Califa: Where is Amber?
Nate points back to the bedroom, too furious to speak. Califa rushes back to the bedroom, Amber curled up on the bed, tears streaming down her face. As Califa enters the room Amber sits up and looks to him.
Amber: Califa?
Califa walks over and hugs her, Amber too in shock to really respond. Califa lowers his head, his voice weak almost.
El Califa: Amber Warren. I am sorry. I should have been there for you.
Amber's mouth open slightly as she wipes away the tears but quickly wraps her arms around Califa, hugging him tightly.
El Califa: I am proud to be your tag team partner. I am even prouder to be Tag Team Champion with you. I lost sight on what was important and focused too much on how I felt without taking your happiness into consideration. I cannot apologize enough.
Amber: Califa....you're...you're not speaking in the third person.
El Califa: Damn the way I speak, this is my truth to you Amber Warren. I have been a horrible partner, and I abandoned you when you needed me most. I abandoned you at our greatest success. And for what? Nothing more than to realize something I should have figured out a long time ago. It took you to remind me of that Amber Warren.
Amber nods her head as she closes her eyes, Califa's presence calming her down as the tears stop. She holds onto him as he lifts his head up.
Amber: What is happening to me El Califa?
El Califa: The Dragon inside you Amber is awakening. Either you become it's master, or it will consume you.
The words are blunt, but there was no need to hide it anymore. Califa himself went through the very process, but he had no one to guide his way. It was up to him to help her become the master of her own Dragon. Amber simply nods as if this satisfied her question.
Amber: I think...I think I need sleep.
Califa nods and slowly let's go of Amber. She forces a smile as she wipes away the tears before sliding under the blankets. Califa sits on the edge of the bed as several moments pass. Soon Amber is sleeping as Califa watches over her as the scene fades out to Califa standing out on a dock overlooking the river. Late night had come, the beginning tendrils of sunrise beginning to take it's hold of the sky. Gone is his suit, and in place is a black hoodie with the hood pulled up over his head, and black baggy jeans. His arms are crossed briefly before reaching into his hoodie pockets and producing the baggie from earlier, the Trac Phone, note, and stack of $100's still inside.
El Califa: This is my old life. I thus cleanse myself of the sins of the past.
He opens the bag and soon takes out the stack of $100's. He tosses it out into the river, the money sinking quickly.
El Califa: The sins of ill gotten means.
Next the Trac Phone is thrown far into the river, a small splash the only confirmation.
El Califa: The sins of temptation.
Finally the note. Califa stares at it for a few moments before crumpling it up in his hand. Instead of tossing it in the river he takes out a lighter and sets it alight, holding the paper for a few moments as the fire quickly devours the note.
El Califa: The sins of my mistakes.
Califa looks out at the river pondering for a few moments before taking a deep breath.
El Califa: El Califa's past shaped who he is, but it will never define who it is under this mask! From this day forward the past shall remain buried, just a reminder of what he has in his life now. She said El Califa was the diamond for her. Well....
Califa reaches into his pocket once more and retrieves his diamond chain. He stares down at it for a moment before that too is tossed into the river.
El Califa: Why chase gold when he already has diamonds? Because diamonds mean nothing if they can be merely bought. And just as being a champion can never be simply owned, so too will Califa never belong to another. Except for one person.
Califa looks back and leans down, picking up something that can't be seen in the darkness. He lifts it up and the glisten of gold suddenly reveals the WZCW Tag Team Title.
El Califa: He belongs to Amber Warren as her Tag Team Partner. And no matter what, he shall be by her side. No one can stop us. Los Magnificos Dragones are tag team champions for a reason. Come all challengers for our titles, we shall battle you back each and every week. We did not win the titles as I saw fit, but damn it El Califa will make sure we fight every week and defend these titles like the proper champions that they are!
The sun begins to slowly peak out across the horizon, the light shining brightly upon the belt as Califa's hood is brushed off his head from the wind.
El Califa: So bring on your Demon Foreigners. Bring on whoever wishes to take a shot at us. For we shall reign eternally......
The scene suddenly cuts to black.
El Califa: And the whole world will hear us dragons roar!
- Status
