Unscripted 2014 Pre-Show - Cerberus vs. Havenada
- Thread starter Harthan
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DarksideEric
Call me "Hadouken." I'm ââ fierce.
Ware wa ken wo kiwameshi mono!
* * *
Click.
Click.
Click.
Click. Click.
DadadadadadadaddadadadadadadadadadadadadadaCHING!
Shoushi.
"You never fail at being a dick with that move, do you Jon?" The exasperated sentence flowed out of Nathanial Black as he stepped away from the Third Strike arcade machine he and his fighter friend were sharing.
Jonathan Hyada waved off the insult, as he did every time, from his well known sore loser friend.
"As you told me for years in the ring: 'stop falling for it and I'll stop using it.'" Jonathan rapidly tapped the buttons on Nathan's side of the machine to get the countdown to reach zero faster so he could continue playing against the computer.
"So... when are you going to start speaking up about this wrestling business?" The question came from behind a quick drag from a cig as he leaned back against one of the unused game machines in the fairly empty bar.
"There's nothing to tell..." Jon replied halfheartedly.
Another drag, longer this time, was taken by the slightly older man as he studied his friend from behind the crimson tinted black shades.
"Nothing, huh? I could have sworn I've seen you do a whole bunch of something. You won last week didn't you?"
Jon ignored the question and continued to tap the buttons of the game.
"You and that masked guy may have something going."
The button clicks became a bit more deliberate at the implication of Haven.
"Well, I mean you two did win, right?"
"A shallow victory. Nothing more."
"I don't know about that J. Seems your masked friend had some good moves and you don't seem the least bit rusty when it comes to fighting."
Nathan placed his cigarette on the edge of the unused arcade machine and took a small sip from his warming beer. With the cig retrieved he began a slow circuit around his friend from behind so he might study the body language of his former pupil.
"I can see it now: Jonathan Hyada and... Haven was it? Jonathan Hyada and Haven, World Tag Team Champions." The grand title was said aloud as he centered Jon's head in a picture frame made with his hands then spread them wide to imply a marquee being read.
A series of button presses were clicked very deliberately with an electronic announcer yelling "PERFECT!"
Jon turned to his friend with a bit of anger in those ice blue eyes.
"Do not belittle me my friend."
Nathan looked at his friend with a feigned quizzical expression, as if he hardly understood what Jon was mad about. He slowly shook his head and took yet another drag, taking care to blow the smoke away from his angered friend.
"I mean it."
"No such thing will happen Nathan. This upcoming match with Haven is my last with him."
"And here I thought you loved heroes." Nathan nodded at the Captain America shirt Jon was wearing.
Jon just glared at his friend.
"Look, I get it--"
"No my friend, you don't 'get it.' Ever since I entered this wrestling situation I have been lost. I try to take a step forward in my training, in my recompense, but I feel I have gained nothing."
"Championships don't come on the first day..."
"I'm not talking about titles or accolades Nathan."
"To be the best you need such things."
Jonathan took in a deep frustrated breath.
"Fine, I will stop antagonizing you. But I won't stop pushing you to consider what may be best and helpful to your cause."
Jon gave his friend a sideways glance in reply.
"You and I talk a great deal. You and I have come a great long way in the past five years, more specifically in the past three. Why are you fighting to keep another opportunity for someone who seemingly wants to help you get close?"
"How in the world am I to keep watch of them when I've not mastered myse--"
Jon's words were caught in the back of his throat as Nathan shoved his friend against the nearest pool table which caused his beer to tumble and spill on the ground.
"You've grown stronger because of other people. You fell because you were arrogant enough to think you stood alone and high above everyone else. You learned to fight because of your dad. You learned the business and about life because of me. You learned from your mother..."
This time it was Nathan's words to be ended prematurely thanks to the wicked tint of Jon's blue eyes.
"You are the first person to know not to use her against me."
Nathan's hands came up in defense apology to diffuse his angered friend.
"Look. All I'm saying is this Haven guy has shown you nothing but support after you showed him the same. You stepped into his life, remember? That should tell you something about not only him but about yourself as well. I know you're willing to do a lot to make up for your past. I know that. I get it. I was there, remember? But I don't think you're going to find what you want, what you need, trying to do it alone. If you try to fight your old self, by yourself, you're going to lose. And you're going to lose hard. I have no desire to see you become like that Ramparte guy again."
Jon's fist clenched tight at the mention of The Catalyst and narrowed his eyes at Nathan, seeing through the facade his friend had put up. Nathaniel had indeed been keeping track of the former fighter ever since he joined WZCW and his advice was stemming from more than just their shared experience as friends and fighters. His thoughts drifted back to Ascension 75 and the confrontation he had with Cerberus, more specifically with Ramparte.
"He is not who I will be. I refuse to travel down that path again. I will not allow my desire for skill to toss away my honor again."
"I know that... but at the same time, if you hold back due to fear for yourself or of who he is..."
"I am not scared of Ramparte's stolen power."
"But you do fear yourself. You're so afraid of falling back into your old self that you hold back everything that made you or could make you strong. You want to test how good you can be while protecting yourself against your demons and mistakes? Then knock the devil out of Ramparte; shatter the reflection of yourself you see is there. And do so with the acceptance of those who want to help you."
Jonathan stared hard at his long time friend, one of the few people he ever let past his wall, and the ice began to thaw. He mulled over the face of The Catalyst within his mind; retracing the short term past the two men had. Ramparte was still the question that tested the strength of Jonathan Hyadas morals; the line he would allow himself to step towards but not cross. He thought of the incident at Ascension and the image of breaking the mans arm.
It was the fighter that now reflected the sentiments of Ramparte from Ascension 75.
You've been quite the thorn lately. I believe we need to finally remove you before things go any further.
The fist clenched again.
"Jon?" The familiar voice of a hero came from behind the two friends, sounding a bit uncomfortable with the local. Haven eased himself past a few of the patrons who drew near and stared drunkedly at the masked man. As he came up to the former MMA fighter he extended his hand for a greeting shake.
Ice blue eyes stared down at the offered hand then he glanced back to Nathan, questioning the reliability of the prior conversation. Nathaniel shrugged and took the last drag of his cig, a sign that he'd leave Jon's choices up to Jon.
With a heavy sigh the fighter turned back to his tag team partner and took his hand. "Good to see you buddy."
* * *
Click.
Click.
Click.
Click. Click.
DadadadadadadaddadadadadadadadadadadadadadaCHING!
Shoushi.
[YOUTUBE]2eYvrHDQ8vo[/YOUTUBE]
"You never fail at being a dick with that move, do you Jon?" The exasperated sentence flowed out of Nathanial Black as he stepped away from the Third Strike arcade machine he and his fighter friend were sharing.
Jonathan Hyada waved off the insult, as he did every time, from his well known sore loser friend.
"As you told me for years in the ring: 'stop falling for it and I'll stop using it.'" Jonathan rapidly tapped the buttons on Nathan's side of the machine to get the countdown to reach zero faster so he could continue playing against the computer.
"So... when are you going to start speaking up about this wrestling business?" The question came from behind a quick drag from a cig as he leaned back against one of the unused game machines in the fairly empty bar.
"There's nothing to tell..." Jon replied halfheartedly.
Another drag, longer this time, was taken by the slightly older man as he studied his friend from behind the crimson tinted black shades.
"Nothing, huh? I could have sworn I've seen you do a whole bunch of something. You won last week didn't you?"
Jon ignored the question and continued to tap the buttons of the game.
"You and that masked guy may have something going."
The button clicks became a bit more deliberate at the implication of Haven.
"Well, I mean you two did win, right?"
"A shallow victory. Nothing more."
"I don't know about that J. Seems your masked friend had some good moves and you don't seem the least bit rusty when it comes to fighting."
Nathan placed his cigarette on the edge of the unused arcade machine and took a small sip from his warming beer. With the cig retrieved he began a slow circuit around his friend from behind so he might study the body language of his former pupil.
"I can see it now: Jonathan Hyada and... Haven was it? Jonathan Hyada and Haven, World Tag Team Champions." The grand title was said aloud as he centered Jon's head in a picture frame made with his hands then spread them wide to imply a marquee being read.
A series of button presses were clicked very deliberately with an electronic announcer yelling "PERFECT!"
Jon turned to his friend with a bit of anger in those ice blue eyes.
"Do not belittle me my friend."
Nathan looked at his friend with a feigned quizzical expression, as if he hardly understood what Jon was mad about. He slowly shook his head and took yet another drag, taking care to blow the smoke away from his angered friend.
"I mean it."
"No such thing will happen Nathan. This upcoming match with Haven is my last with him."
"And here I thought you loved heroes." Nathan nodded at the Captain America shirt Jon was wearing.
Jon just glared at his friend.
"Look, I get it--"
"No my friend, you don't 'get it.' Ever since I entered this wrestling situation I have been lost. I try to take a step forward in my training, in my recompense, but I feel I have gained nothing."
"Championships don't come on the first day..."
"I'm not talking about titles or accolades Nathan."
"To be the best you need such things."
Jonathan took in a deep frustrated breath.
"Fine, I will stop antagonizing you. But I won't stop pushing you to consider what may be best and helpful to your cause."
Jon gave his friend a sideways glance in reply.
"You and I talk a great deal. You and I have come a great long way in the past five years, more specifically in the past three. Why are you fighting to keep another opportunity for someone who seemingly wants to help you get close?"
"How in the world am I to keep watch of them when I've not mastered myse--"
Jon's words were caught in the back of his throat as Nathan shoved his friend against the nearest pool table which caused his beer to tumble and spill on the ground.
"You've grown stronger because of other people. You fell because you were arrogant enough to think you stood alone and high above everyone else. You learned to fight because of your dad. You learned the business and about life because of me. You learned from your mother..."
This time it was Nathan's words to be ended prematurely thanks to the wicked tint of Jon's blue eyes.
"You are the first person to know not to use her against me."
Nathan's hands came up in defense apology to diffuse his angered friend.
"Look. All I'm saying is this Haven guy has shown you nothing but support after you showed him the same. You stepped into his life, remember? That should tell you something about not only him but about yourself as well. I know you're willing to do a lot to make up for your past. I know that. I get it. I was there, remember? But I don't think you're going to find what you want, what you need, trying to do it alone. If you try to fight your old self, by yourself, you're going to lose. And you're going to lose hard. I have no desire to see you become like that Ramparte guy again."
Jon's fist clenched tight at the mention of The Catalyst and narrowed his eyes at Nathan, seeing through the facade his friend had put up. Nathaniel had indeed been keeping track of the former fighter ever since he joined WZCW and his advice was stemming from more than just their shared experience as friends and fighters. His thoughts drifted back to Ascension 75 and the confrontation he had with Cerberus, more specifically with Ramparte.
"He is not who I will be. I refuse to travel down that path again. I will not allow my desire for skill to toss away my honor again."
"I know that... but at the same time, if you hold back due to fear for yourself or of who he is..."
"I am not scared of Ramparte's stolen power."
"But you do fear yourself. You're so afraid of falling back into your old self that you hold back everything that made you or could make you strong. You want to test how good you can be while protecting yourself against your demons and mistakes? Then knock the devil out of Ramparte; shatter the reflection of yourself you see is there. And do so with the acceptance of those who want to help you."
Jonathan stared hard at his long time friend, one of the few people he ever let past his wall, and the ice began to thaw. He mulled over the face of The Catalyst within his mind; retracing the short term past the two men had. Ramparte was still the question that tested the strength of Jonathan Hyadas morals; the line he would allow himself to step towards but not cross. He thought of the incident at Ascension and the image of breaking the mans arm.
It was the fighter that now reflected the sentiments of Ramparte from Ascension 75.
You've been quite the thorn lately. I believe we need to finally remove you before things go any further.
The fist clenched again.
"Jon?" The familiar voice of a hero came from behind the two friends, sounding a bit uncomfortable with the local. Haven eased himself past a few of the patrons who drew near and stared drunkedly at the masked man. As he came up to the former MMA fighter he extended his hand for a greeting shake.
Ice blue eyes stared down at the offered hand then he glanced back to Nathan, questioning the reliability of the prior conversation. Nathaniel shrugged and took the last drag of his cig, a sign that he'd leave Jon's choices up to Jon.
With a heavy sigh the fighter turned back to his tag team partner and took his hand. "Good to see you buddy."
Kermit
the Frog
Issue #4: The Formation of a Partnership Team (Part 2)
Two hands, clasped together in mutual respect. Our green hero, Haven, and the youthful spitfire, Jonathan Hyada, share an act of friendship. Hyadas friend, Nathaniel Black, grins off to the side as Hyada, for the first time, embraces the man who he will be teaming with at Unscripted against the vile duo known as Cerberus.
Black: Aw, isnt this sweet. Hey, the next round is on me.
Black points off in a direction, presumably towards the bar, and walks over to it, leaving Haven and Hyada alone in the shot. They finally release their handshake.
Haven: So, does this mean that we are a team?
Hyada hesitates for a moment.
Hyada: This means that I realize I have been a bit harsh on you. You and I are in this battle together. Cerberus doesn't just have their sights set on me anymore. Its on both of us. So
Haven holds out his arms for a hug and grins from ear to ear.
Haven: SO! This means we are a team?!!?
Hyada, in a serious tone, replies while rolling his eyes.
Hyada: Yeah sure, specifics.
Hyada sports a half-smirk as Haven fists pumps the air in excitement.
Haven: Great! Then there is no time to lose! Quick, to the Havenmobile!
Haven reaches in his pocket and pulls out a white ping-pong ball looking object.
Haven: Ninja vanish!
He throws it on the ground and it explodes in a thick white smoke. Hyada quickly begins to cough as the white smoke fills up the bar.
Hyada: *coughs* What the hell, Haven?
Veiled by the fog, we hear our hero.
Haven: Swoosh!
Hyada disappears now as several other patrons of the bar begin to cough over the white smoke consuming the establishment. Someone yells out from within smoke.
Man: Who the hell did this?!
Man 2: My eyes!
Woman: Has anyone seen my baby!?
Suddenly, the smoke triggers the sprinkler system within the bar and the fire alarm goes off.
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We leave the sad scene that Havens smokescreen created and quickly switch over to a scene of Haven and Hyada on the Havenmobile. Hyada is on the back of the motorcycle as Haven zooms down the street with a pair of thick-rimmed goggles and hard helmet on. Hyada yells out at Haven as the wind blows against his face.
Hyada: Haven, where are we going?
Haven: Unfinished business!
Hyada: What do you mean by unfinished business?
Haven: Last week in Los Angeles you really left me hanging. That monkey and his handler got away with some expensive WZCW equipment. Giles was really pissed at me, you know?
A look of remorse shows on Hyadas face.
Hyada: Look, Haven. Im sorry about that. I should have had your back, just like you had mine in the ring.
Haven: Ah, its no problem. Dont worry about it.
Hyada almost looks confused.
Hyada: How can you be so quick to forgive me after I left you high and dry? Not to mention that up until a minute ago I had not even given you the time of day?
Haven: Well, thats what friends do, right?
Hyada goes silent and chews over the words Haven just said.
Haven: Hold on tight, if we want to get to Los Angeles and back in time, we are going to have to book it.
Haven revs up the engine and zooms forward out of the camera shot. We switch over to a video montage of Haven & Hyada cruising down various streets and highways.
---------------------------
Finally, we switch back over to a real-time shot of the Havenmobile cruising down the busy streets of LA. It seems that Haven and Hyada are engaged in an intense conversation.
Hyada: No, that is completely stupid. There is no way we are naming the team Ghostbusters 2.
Haven: Well, why not?
Hyada: Do I really need explain why? Look, its bad enough that the website manager gave us a celebrity couple name in Havenada. Our team name needs to be powerful and a precise display of what we want to represent as a unit.
Haven: I think Havenada has a nice ring to it.
Hyada scoffs at Haven.
Hyada: Yeah, well I think you were dropped on your head as a child.
Haven: Youve been looking at my roster page, haven't you?
Hyada opens his mouth to speak, but stops himself from responding to Havens sad statement. Instead he chooses a different topic.
Hyada: Speaking of roster pages, I cant help but feel a bit unprepared for our match at Unscripted.
Haven: What do you mean?
Hyada: Well, I know Ramparte like the back of my hand, but his partner, Flex Mussél, is another story. Ive looked over his roster info, but Im not getting anything concrete.
Haven: Look Jon, its like I told you before. There is only so much pre-planning you can do before your battles. Mussel is a wildcard to us, but so am I to them. And handling wildcards is what I do best. So, you handle Ramparte; youve studied him to the bone. Ill look to you when it comes to him, but when random variables come into play look to me. Im an excellent improver. Did you know I actually made it to the final cut for the revive of Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Hyada brushes off Havens silly comment and responds directly to the green heros main point.
Hyada: I still think planning goes a lot further than you give it credit, but I can concede that you are definitely the most random out of the two of us. Heck, my strategy and your cut-loose attitude might just be a winning com-
The bike suddenly comes to a screeching halt. Hyada almost flies over Haven, but he catches himself. He seems clearly disheveled from the sudden stop and looks highly annoyed at Haven.
Hyada: Haven, what the hel-
Haven: Shh!
Haven turns his torso towards Hyada and puts a finger up to his lips. Haven speaks in a whisper.
Haven: Listen.
Despite stopping in mid-traffic, the scene slowly begins to muffle out the hustling and bustling of the busy street. We arent quite sure what we are listening for until we hear the eerie crinkling noise that belongs only to the evil monkey. Havens eyes become glaring slits.
Haven: Monkey...
The Havenmobile peels out as Haven cruises into an alleyway and begins a series of turns down various alleys.
Hyada: Where are you going?!
Haven: To the monkey! Didnt you hear it?
Hyada: Hear what? The traffic?
Haven: No! Wait, didnt you take Super Hearing 101 in college?
Hyada: Super Hearing 101?
Haven: Yeah, it was one of the basics at the Hero Academy.
Hyada: Okay, that is just idiotic-
The Havenmobile screeches again!
Hyada: Again! What the hel-
Haven: Look!
Haven points down at the end of alley where we see the dancing monkey enticing several crewmen near a large equipment truck.
Haven: Im going to kick his ass!
Haven takes off his helmet and goggles and throws them to the ground. Hyada grabs him by the arm!
Hyada: Haven, wait!
Haven: I can take him!
Hyada pulls Haven to where he is looking at him.
Hyada: Look, you remember what happened last time, right?
Haven: Yeah.
Hyada: Well, it didnt turn out so well and stuff got stolen. If I had been there we might have caught the handler, but what about the monkey? We need to set a plan in action where we get both of them.
Haven hesitates for a moment, but then nods at his partner in a trusting manner.
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The scene switches and we see Haven walking up to where the monkey is distracting the crewmen.
Haven: Hey!
The monkey takes notice of the green hero approaching and hisses as he remembers the encounter last week.
Haven: Yeah, Im talking to you, you furry bastard!
The monkey quickly gets into a fighting stance as Haven responds with his own defensive stance. The trance is broken off the crewmen as they fully grasp what is going on. Haven glares at the monkey.
Haven: Lets dance!
The monkey lunges at Haven, but Haven pounces away towards the equipment truck. The monkey seems stunned by his swiftness, but follows up with another lunge. Once again, Haven jumps back a little closer towards the truck. The series of failed lunges continue until Haven backs all the way up to the opening of the equipment trailer of the truck. We switch to inside where there is a rotund Italian Man trying to tug on a giant sound equipment case. He seems frustrated as he cant get it to budge.
Italian Man: What is going on here?
Suddenly, the mans attention is turned towards a monkey being flung into the equipment trailer. The Italian Man cries out over the injured monkey.
Italian Man: Pistachio! What did they do to you!?
Suddenly, Haven jumps up into the equipment trailer. The Italian Man glares at him as he grips the music box hanging from his neck.
Italian Man: You! The verde monster that attacked my innocent Pistachio last week! How dare you!?
Haven: The jig is up. This equipment ain't going nowhere.
The Italian Man begins to laugh.
Italian Man: Im sorry my friend, but you seem to be mistaken. You see, it is two against one.
The Italian Man begins to play his music box as the injured monkey comes back to life. The monkey known as Pistachio beats its chest violently.
???: More like two against two.
Hyada drops down from on top of the equipment trailer to inside. He stands next to Haven. The Italian Man glares at him for a moment.
Italian Man: Ah, I remember you! You were the one out in front of the truck last week, but then you left just before I made my move. Lucky for you, you did.
Hyada: Yeah, whatever. Look, I dont know how long you thought this little scheme was going to work, but you and that little monkey are busted. The police are on their way. Besides, all it took was a little pre-planning to foil you. I latched down the most expensive piece of equipment in here and had Haven lead the monkey back here to you.
Haven cuts in with a very serious, hero-like, tone.
Haven: Monkey see, monkey do.
Hyada: Then, we had you both right where we wanted you. Cornered as the police arrive.
To much of Hyadas surprise the Italian Man begins to laugh hysterically.
Italian Man: You think you have bested me and this little monkey? You fool! This isnt even his final form!
Hyada: Say what?
The Italian Man reaches behind his back and throws two knives in the air. The monkey does a back flip and catches them both. He then does a series of swings and jabs with the knives in an impressive display. The Italian Man laughs wickedly as he begins to play a darker tone on the music box.
Haven: Ill take him.
Haven does a barrel roll forward and springs at the monkey. The monkey jumps forward for a jab, but Haven pushes away his tiny arm and slides over to the wall of the equipment truck. The monkey quickly responds by sprinting towards Haven with a hack and slash. Haven has little time to react, but he kicks back off the trailer wall and jumps over the monkey. Once again, the monkey follows after him, but Haven steps up on the wall and does a backflip to position himself behind the knife-wielding furry fiend. As the monkey turns around, Haven kicks away one of his knives towards the Italian Man. The monkey decides he best go grab it, but instead of racing the monkey towards the knife, Haven turns towards Hyada.
Haven: Hyada, quick! Jump off my hands and knock that monkey out!
Hyada: What?!
Haven: Just do it!
Hyada only pauses for a millisecond before he sprints towards his squatting teammate. Hyada leaps up and plants one foot on both hands of the green hero. Haven pushes up and sends Hyada springing over him. Just as Hyada is flying over Haven, the monkey is jumping up towards the duo. However, the monkey is caught completely off guard as Hyada flings a spiraling fist forward and connects with its skull. The monkey ripples backwards and releases its knives. It rockets into the Italian Man and sends both of them crashing into equipment. Hyada lands safely on his feet as Haven quickly comes up behind him to grab onto his shoulder for a celebratory roar.
Haven: YEAHHHHHHHH!
Hyada cant help but smirk. Perhaps at their success, or just the silliness of the situation. As Haven continues to roar with achievement, we transition over to a shot of a squad car parked outside the equipment trailer.
---------------------------
The monkey is being cuffed with tiny handcuffs as the Italian Man is being shoved in the back of a squad car.
An officer walks over to the team standing nearby.
Officer: Again, thank you both. These two guys have been a thorn in our side for the last several months. It took a special effort to thwart that pesky monkey and his handler. Its always nice seeing two young individuals exercising justice in our society today. Take care.
The officer tips his hat as he walks away from the team. Haven playfully asks his partner.
Haven: So, do you think Cerberus will be as tough as an Italian street organ player and a knife-wielding monkey?
Hyada: I doubt it.
Hyada sports a small half-smirk. They both look at each other as the setting sun creates an orange glow in the sky.
Haven: Today you put together a great plan to grab the pair. The task would have felt half-complete had we only gotten the monkey or his handler. Great job, Jon.
Hyada: Well..., I may not have taken Super Hearing 101, but I did take Batman 101 at the comic store.
Haven: Wait, you like comic books?!
Hyada: Haha, yeah.
Haven's face lights up over a discovered shared interest between the two.
Hyada: Well, I have to admit myself that when that monkey started swinging those knives you called the shots rather brilliantly yourself. Maybe we could even use that little maneuver in the ring?
Haven: Haha, of course!
Hyada smiles for a second, but then gets serious.
Hyada: Look, I think destiny has paired us up for a reason. For the last couple of weeks I have struggled with the idea of putting my trust in another inside the ring. But after how we clicked on Ascension 75 in the ring, and after tonight working as a team, I can see the type of person you really are.
Haven: Oh yeah, what type of person am I?
Hyada: A friend.
Haven smiles in response. Hyada holds out his hand and smiles too. Haven grabs it and they share an epic clasping of fists.
Haven breaks from the handshake and points to the sky in a heroic pose.
Haven: Look out evil in WZCW, no one can stop Ghostbusters 2!
Hyada: Wait, no! For the last time, that is not the name of our team!
The RP ends with a still image of Hyada yelling at Haven over the teams name. The image turns into comic-book graphics as it fades to black.
FlexAmerican Dynamite
WZCW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION
The entity known as Cerberus can be seen backstage in the office of Aftershock General Manager Chuck Myles. The team seems to be enthralled in a heated conversation with the authority as nobody inside the office is has a very pleasant demeanor.
Flex: Are you crazy?! A match with Young Justice on the pre-show, we beat the Demon Foreigners. The title match with the Dragones should be ours!
Myles: With the past altercations the four of you men have had coupled with a loss you two have already suffered at the hands of champions I advised Mr. Banks to disregard your victory. I informed him that the pre-show will do much better ratings now that the fans will get to see you teams get your hands on each other. The more viewers on the pre-show the more viewers we can draw in for the actual show, its simple business gentlemen.
Flex: Simple business is giving the superior team the opportunity they deserve. In our debut match we dealt and defeated Hyada with ease, and have conquered the only other team in the division. What more do we have to do to prove ourselves?
Myles: You defeated Hyada due to a last minute partner change. Youve never faced the combination of Hyada and Haven and Im confident their addition to the tag team division will more than keep the two of you busy as The Foreigners and Dragones settle their dispute. Ive told you day one since I put the two of you together as a team that nothing is handed to you in this business. A lot of people believe that nobody is taking the belts away from the current champs with all the teams that lack the experience they do. In the long run Im doing both teams a favor.
Ramparte: Youre not doing Hyada and Haven a favor at all. They might believe theyre ready, they might believe that joining forces in hopes of conquering us will do them good but regardless of the outcome it will only end in pain for the both of them. For their sake this isnt a match you want to make Chuck.
Myles: You know boys it sounds like youre a little afraid of Young Justice. But that cant be it right? The big bad hell hounds-
Flex: Hounds of health-
Myles: - Afraid of a little competition. Hyada wants you really bad Ramparte, and after his steadily rising performance level I wont deny him that opportunity. And despite just joining the company Haven looks to have just as much potential as you do Flex, maybe even more. The match is happening, and if you truly want another shot at the champs then youll prove exactly that if you can defeat Havenada. I wouldnt take them lightly though, theyve got even more to prove than you do.
The two members of Cerberus share a look of unsureness, almost exactly the same one they both had the fateful they met each other in Chucks office and were put together as a tag team. That unclear, unpleasant, and unhappy attitude of the unit slowly fades as they remember how the mightve been the best thing to happen to them at the point and both develop vengeful grins.
Flex: Fine, well jump through all the hoops you want us to, because to trim the fat of this company we must start all the way at the bottom and work our way up. Soon enough Haven and Hyada will learn their partnership and never be as healthy as the one Cerberus shares.
The fitness trainer does an air guitar followed by the flexing of his muscles and then proceeds to give a hi-five to Ramparte, who reluctantly accepts the gesture due to still not being accustomed to most social gestures. As the two attempts to walk out with the last word theyre stopped by the general manager.
Myles: Oh and one more thing boys, the officials over at WZCW are well aware of the little garden fire that occurred on your watch. We did quite a bit to keep that under wraps and it will be coming out of your paycheck.
The twosomes confidence takes a slight dip realizing the general manger does not intend to let them get the last word. However Ramparte soon becomes unaffected as he responds.
Ramparte: The cut in pay makes no difference, the money will be earned back as Ill be taking the stock I have purchased in WZCW and put it into Flex Fitness.
Flexs face fills with happiness at Rampartes unexpected announcement. His eyes shine like a child on Christmas morning and he even sheds a slight tear.
Ramparte: Are you crying?
Flex: No my eyes muscles have just been working out and they needed to let off some sweat. But Im proud of you man, I already knew we were teammates. I knew we were gym buddies. But I never ever in my life thought wed ever be .business partners! You have no idea how exciting this is, we can give job evaluations together, make fun of the wimpy accountants, and even bench press secretaries. Oh my god this is the best thing ever.
The fitness trainer wraps his bulging arm around Ramparte as he leads him out the door and towards the Flex Fitness Corporation headquarters continuing on about all the shenanigans the two will have.
Myles: Ugh what a couple of weirdos.
Sometime Later
Cerberus is decked out in corporate attire, sitting at the head of a long table filled with many executives all owning a piece of stock in the Flexs multifaceted fitness organization.
Flex: Gentlemen, meet your new executive partner Godfrey Ramparte!
The catalyst stands up and bows towards his new associates only to met with one applause from his own teammate Mussel.
Flex: Why are you not clapping?!
Very confused at the decision and slightly intimidated by their sometimes abusive boss the executives are quiet, until one is brave enough to respond to the monsieur of muscle.
??? : Hi sir, Im not sure if you know who I am, you said I needed to lose a few pounds at one point and shoved an apple in my mouth.
Flex: You got to be more specific pal I shove a lot of fruit down many clients mouths.
Bill: Well my names Bill, and I think the reason were so quiet is because were not exactly thrilled by your newest business partner. You see we all have a stake in this company and none of us want to see it fail. Youve built up quite a name for yourself as a self-made man that turned working out into a profitable way of life. However your recent actions since joining WZCW have made you the center of the public eye in terms of image. And your recent association with Ramparte coupled with reports of starting riots in France, garden fires, and publicly attacking who I believe is one of your upcoming opponents is very damaging towards your image of personal trainer who overcame his overweight childhood and bettered himself physically. It sort of makes you seem like a jerk.
Flex: Are you are you questioning my actions? Are you questioning my friendship? I own this company and I act however I desire. Do you even lift Bill? Have you ever had to carry an organization on your back? I didnt think so, so how about you start spending a few more hours on the treadmill instead of checking your bank account-
Ramparte: Hold on Flex just calm down okay buddy
Mussel inhales and exhales as Ramparte calmly brings his teammate down from his blind rage.
Ramparte: Now usually Im not the voice of reason between the two of us but thanks to the guidance of Flex Im trying out new things. One of those new things is compromise. I realize that you executives are very hesitant of me joining the company and with good reason. I know from what youve seen on WZCW television I dont seem like the most stable of people but despite my cold, calculating, and brash demeanor inside the ring Im not so bad out. Ive learned very much Flex in our recent dealings together and hes learned very much from me. One of the things hes learned is to let loose every now and then and embrace any hostile feelings he may have instead of bottling them up inside. Thats why we had to attack Jonathan Hyada. We felt disrespected and we needed to vent our frustrations. We knew his partner Haven was soon going to join and make it a fair fight and we were never going to hurt him too bad before our friendly sparring battle. Over the last couple of weeks weve encountered Hyada quite a bit and despite whatever differences we may have inside the ring we have nothing but respect for him out of it. And come Unscripted we look forward to some friendly competition as well as getting to know Haven a little better.
The speech given by the catalyst actually surprises the room of executives quite bit. They expected a creepy, sauntering, anti-social jerk but to what they think is their pleasure is met by a well-dressed, well looking, and seemingly reasonable man.
Bill: Well Mr. Ramparte maybe we were wrong about you, we dont know much about the wrestling industry Mr. Mussel much to our dismay has enthralled himself into but to hear the perspective from such a calm and reasonable individual is a breath of fresh air. Maybe having you as an executive isnt such a bad idea.
Flex leans over to Ramparte as the rest of the executives confer with themselves before voting.
Flex: Wow, that was really good man, you really have learned how to manipulate with your words havent you?
Ramparte: I learned from the best didnt I?
Bill: Well weve come to a decision Mr. Ramparte and have decided that allowing you also be a shareholder/executive/partner is allowed. The paperwork will be sent to your residence at once.
Ramparte: Glad to hear it, I look forward to working with all of you and the boss Mr. Mussel.
Bill: About that since were talking about compromise we still feel a bit of Flexs behavior lately to be extremely concerning and as a team of executives weve decided that for the time being it would be a good idea for Flex to relinquish his current stranglehold over making sole decisions.
Flex: Are you kidding me? I made this company!
Ramparte: Relax buddy how long would he have to relinquish this title and under what circumstances can he gain back your trust?
Bill: Well even in if its a friendly competition defeating your opposition in Haven/Hyada will go along in showing us that whatever hi-jinks are occurring with you Flex you can still win and therefore advertise without even needed to buy any commercial time.
Flex: Ugh fine.
Ramparte: Yes that is completely understandable. Despite being very capable and talented Hyada and Haven dont have nearly as much chemistry as we do.
Bill: Good to hear, now that weve got that business out of the way theres a new product we think would be great addition to Flex Fitness merchandise.
Flex: What product would that be?
Bill: The Superhero Shake.
Other executives pull out photos and graphs from under the table as examples for their pitch.
Flex: Superhero Shake?
Bill: Yes, co-produced by Marvel entertainment its a brand of healthy smoothie advertised as a way for kids to get healthy like their favorite superheroes.
Flex: What about the Flex Fitness protein shake?
Bill: Its just not selling sir, plus this marketed for the kids. Plus it will feature cool graphics theyll like with heroes like Iron Man, Hulk, Haven, Thor, and Captain America.
Flex: Hold on did you say Haven?
Bill: Yes, hes become very popular lately. Its why we already knew of him. We thought it would be in poor taste to bring him into company at this juncture but wed like to get him under contract at some point.
Flex: Listen here, Haven is not a superhero. He may be fast, agile, and surprisingly heroic for guy decked out in green. But he doesnt have superpowers. I can lift multiple people at once, bench press over five hundred pounds, and I have amazing cholesterol. That is being a hero kids should be proud of. Not a person who feels the need the need to put on a colorful costume and pretend to be something hes not. Even when I was overweight I owned who I was just as much as I do now. Haven is a false role model for kids and I will not allow him to be in my company.
Bill: Unfortunately its not your decision anymore Flex, this presentation was just a courtesy. We already voted and have factory worked making this now, should be on the shelves by next week.
The monsieur of muscle sinks into his chair at the sudden lack of power he now has over his own creation.
Ramparte: It is okay Flex, once we step in the ring with them youll have a chance to express just how you feel to Haven himself. I on the other hand look to become fully acquainted with Hyada and express to him that no matter how far he is come from our last encounter I was better then and Im still better now.
Bill: Good to hear gentlemen, great talk. Weve gotten more work done here today and then we have most of this companys lifespan.
The rest of the executives exit the room leaving Cerberus in the room alone.
Flex: Being robbed of our rightful title shot, losing my company, and being outdone by some costume wearing weirdo. Could today get any worse?
Ramparte: Well I hope youre not afraid of the dark, I have a camera man waiting outside and I got something to show you in the basement .
Flex: Are you crazy?! A match with Young Justice on the pre-show, we beat the Demon Foreigners. The title match with the Dragones should be ours!
Myles: With the past altercations the four of you men have had coupled with a loss you two have already suffered at the hands of champions I advised Mr. Banks to disregard your victory. I informed him that the pre-show will do much better ratings now that the fans will get to see you teams get your hands on each other. The more viewers on the pre-show the more viewers we can draw in for the actual show, its simple business gentlemen.
Flex: Simple business is giving the superior team the opportunity they deserve. In our debut match we dealt and defeated Hyada with ease, and have conquered the only other team in the division. What more do we have to do to prove ourselves?
Myles: You defeated Hyada due to a last minute partner change. Youve never faced the combination of Hyada and Haven and Im confident their addition to the tag team division will more than keep the two of you busy as The Foreigners and Dragones settle their dispute. Ive told you day one since I put the two of you together as a team that nothing is handed to you in this business. A lot of people believe that nobody is taking the belts away from the current champs with all the teams that lack the experience they do. In the long run Im doing both teams a favor.
Ramparte: Youre not doing Hyada and Haven a favor at all. They might believe theyre ready, they might believe that joining forces in hopes of conquering us will do them good but regardless of the outcome it will only end in pain for the both of them. For their sake this isnt a match you want to make Chuck.
Myles: You know boys it sounds like youre a little afraid of Young Justice. But that cant be it right? The big bad hell hounds-
Flex: Hounds of health-
Myles: - Afraid of a little competition. Hyada wants you really bad Ramparte, and after his steadily rising performance level I wont deny him that opportunity. And despite just joining the company Haven looks to have just as much potential as you do Flex, maybe even more. The match is happening, and if you truly want another shot at the champs then youll prove exactly that if you can defeat Havenada. I wouldnt take them lightly though, theyve got even more to prove than you do.
The two members of Cerberus share a look of unsureness, almost exactly the same one they both had the fateful they met each other in Chucks office and were put together as a tag team. That unclear, unpleasant, and unhappy attitude of the unit slowly fades as they remember how the mightve been the best thing to happen to them at the point and both develop vengeful grins.
Flex: Fine, well jump through all the hoops you want us to, because to trim the fat of this company we must start all the way at the bottom and work our way up. Soon enough Haven and Hyada will learn their partnership and never be as healthy as the one Cerberus shares.
The fitness trainer does an air guitar followed by the flexing of his muscles and then proceeds to give a hi-five to Ramparte, who reluctantly accepts the gesture due to still not being accustomed to most social gestures. As the two attempts to walk out with the last word theyre stopped by the general manager.
Myles: Oh and one more thing boys, the officials over at WZCW are well aware of the little garden fire that occurred on your watch. We did quite a bit to keep that under wraps and it will be coming out of your paycheck.
The twosomes confidence takes a slight dip realizing the general manger does not intend to let them get the last word. However Ramparte soon becomes unaffected as he responds.
Ramparte: The cut in pay makes no difference, the money will be earned back as Ill be taking the stock I have purchased in WZCW and put it into Flex Fitness.
Flexs face fills with happiness at Rampartes unexpected announcement. His eyes shine like a child on Christmas morning and he even sheds a slight tear.
Ramparte: Are you crying?
Flex: No my eyes muscles have just been working out and they needed to let off some sweat. But Im proud of you man, I already knew we were teammates. I knew we were gym buddies. But I never ever in my life thought wed ever be .business partners! You have no idea how exciting this is, we can give job evaluations together, make fun of the wimpy accountants, and even bench press secretaries. Oh my god this is the best thing ever.
The fitness trainer wraps his bulging arm around Ramparte as he leads him out the door and towards the Flex Fitness Corporation headquarters continuing on about all the shenanigans the two will have.
Myles: Ugh what a couple of weirdos.
Sometime Later
Cerberus is decked out in corporate attire, sitting at the head of a long table filled with many executives all owning a piece of stock in the Flexs multifaceted fitness organization.
Flex: Gentlemen, meet your new executive partner Godfrey Ramparte!
The catalyst stands up and bows towards his new associates only to met with one applause from his own teammate Mussel.
Flex: Why are you not clapping?!
Very confused at the decision and slightly intimidated by their sometimes abusive boss the executives are quiet, until one is brave enough to respond to the monsieur of muscle.
??? : Hi sir, Im not sure if you know who I am, you said I needed to lose a few pounds at one point and shoved an apple in my mouth.
Flex: You got to be more specific pal I shove a lot of fruit down many clients mouths.
Bill: Well my names Bill, and I think the reason were so quiet is because were not exactly thrilled by your newest business partner. You see we all have a stake in this company and none of us want to see it fail. Youve built up quite a name for yourself as a self-made man that turned working out into a profitable way of life. However your recent actions since joining WZCW have made you the center of the public eye in terms of image. And your recent association with Ramparte coupled with reports of starting riots in France, garden fires, and publicly attacking who I believe is one of your upcoming opponents is very damaging towards your image of personal trainer who overcame his overweight childhood and bettered himself physically. It sort of makes you seem like a jerk.
Flex: Are you are you questioning my actions? Are you questioning my friendship? I own this company and I act however I desire. Do you even lift Bill? Have you ever had to carry an organization on your back? I didnt think so, so how about you start spending a few more hours on the treadmill instead of checking your bank account-
Ramparte: Hold on Flex just calm down okay buddy
Mussel inhales and exhales as Ramparte calmly brings his teammate down from his blind rage.
Ramparte: Now usually Im not the voice of reason between the two of us but thanks to the guidance of Flex Im trying out new things. One of those new things is compromise. I realize that you executives are very hesitant of me joining the company and with good reason. I know from what youve seen on WZCW television I dont seem like the most stable of people but despite my cold, calculating, and brash demeanor inside the ring Im not so bad out. Ive learned very much Flex in our recent dealings together and hes learned very much from me. One of the things hes learned is to let loose every now and then and embrace any hostile feelings he may have instead of bottling them up inside. Thats why we had to attack Jonathan Hyada. We felt disrespected and we needed to vent our frustrations. We knew his partner Haven was soon going to join and make it a fair fight and we were never going to hurt him too bad before our friendly sparring battle. Over the last couple of weeks weve encountered Hyada quite a bit and despite whatever differences we may have inside the ring we have nothing but respect for him out of it. And come Unscripted we look forward to some friendly competition as well as getting to know Haven a little better.
The speech given by the catalyst actually surprises the room of executives quite bit. They expected a creepy, sauntering, anti-social jerk but to what they think is their pleasure is met by a well-dressed, well looking, and seemingly reasonable man.
Bill: Well Mr. Ramparte maybe we were wrong about you, we dont know much about the wrestling industry Mr. Mussel much to our dismay has enthralled himself into but to hear the perspective from such a calm and reasonable individual is a breath of fresh air. Maybe having you as an executive isnt such a bad idea.
Flex leans over to Ramparte as the rest of the executives confer with themselves before voting.
Flex: Wow, that was really good man, you really have learned how to manipulate with your words havent you?
Ramparte: I learned from the best didnt I?
Bill: Well weve come to a decision Mr. Ramparte and have decided that allowing you also be a shareholder/executive/partner is allowed. The paperwork will be sent to your residence at once.
Ramparte: Glad to hear it, I look forward to working with all of you and the boss Mr. Mussel.
Bill: About that since were talking about compromise we still feel a bit of Flexs behavior lately to be extremely concerning and as a team of executives weve decided that for the time being it would be a good idea for Flex to relinquish his current stranglehold over making sole decisions.
Flex: Are you kidding me? I made this company!
Ramparte: Relax buddy how long would he have to relinquish this title and under what circumstances can he gain back your trust?
Bill: Well even in if its a friendly competition defeating your opposition in Haven/Hyada will go along in showing us that whatever hi-jinks are occurring with you Flex you can still win and therefore advertise without even needed to buy any commercial time.
Flex: Ugh fine.
Ramparte: Yes that is completely understandable. Despite being very capable and talented Hyada and Haven dont have nearly as much chemistry as we do.
Bill: Good to hear, now that weve got that business out of the way theres a new product we think would be great addition to Flex Fitness merchandise.
Flex: What product would that be?
Bill: The Superhero Shake.
Other executives pull out photos and graphs from under the table as examples for their pitch.
Flex: Superhero Shake?
Bill: Yes, co-produced by Marvel entertainment its a brand of healthy smoothie advertised as a way for kids to get healthy like their favorite superheroes.
Flex: What about the Flex Fitness protein shake?
Bill: Its just not selling sir, plus this marketed for the kids. Plus it will feature cool graphics theyll like with heroes like Iron Man, Hulk, Haven, Thor, and Captain America.
Flex: Hold on did you say Haven?
Bill: Yes, hes become very popular lately. Its why we already knew of him. We thought it would be in poor taste to bring him into company at this juncture but wed like to get him under contract at some point.
Flex: Listen here, Haven is not a superhero. He may be fast, agile, and surprisingly heroic for guy decked out in green. But he doesnt have superpowers. I can lift multiple people at once, bench press over five hundred pounds, and I have amazing cholesterol. That is being a hero kids should be proud of. Not a person who feels the need the need to put on a colorful costume and pretend to be something hes not. Even when I was overweight I owned who I was just as much as I do now. Haven is a false role model for kids and I will not allow him to be in my company.
Bill: Unfortunately its not your decision anymore Flex, this presentation was just a courtesy. We already voted and have factory worked making this now, should be on the shelves by next week.
The monsieur of muscle sinks into his chair at the sudden lack of power he now has over his own creation.
Ramparte: It is okay Flex, once we step in the ring with them youll have a chance to express just how you feel to Haven himself. I on the other hand look to become fully acquainted with Hyada and express to him that no matter how far he is come from our last encounter I was better then and Im still better now.
Bill: Good to hear gentlemen, great talk. Weve gotten more work done here today and then we have most of this companys lifespan.
The rest of the executives exit the room leaving Cerberus in the room alone.
Flex: Being robbed of our rightful title shot, losing my company, and being outdone by some costume wearing weirdo. Could today get any worse?
Ramparte: Well I hope youre not afraid of the dark, I have a camera man waiting outside and I got something to show you in the basement .
Spidey Revivey
Porn is okay here long as it ain't dudes.
The quote flickers away until nothing is left but the confines of darkness. The sound of a key unlocking a door and the spilling of light reveals the interior of a basement. From the doorway The Catalyst and the Monsieur of Muscle make their way down the stairs; searching the walls for a lightswitch. Finding one, Flex Mussél illuminates the room and stands back in wonder. The room is filled with old exercise equipment and foldable mats, all covered in dust and cobwebs. In the center of the room was a dumbbell rack with a projector sitting on top. The projector itself was connected to a faded camcorder that received its power from an extension chord that was hidden from sight. Standing adjacent was a tarp draped over a pull up bar attached to the ceiling. Shaking his head, Mussél spoke up.
Sacré bleu, my sharp dressed friend. How can you know more about my gym than I do?? How do I not know of a room in my own palace?
Ramparte stepped completely down and examined the room; playing with his newly bought cane thanks to an incident with Hyada from the previous show.
I looked at the building schematics. It helps to be one step ahead, always partner. What do you think, camera man?
The man holding the camera that gives viewers live feed jumped at the mention of him.
Relax, my malnourished young friend. We aren't like other teams. We respect the man behind the camera and want you to have a say on things. So, what is your name?
Umm...Mitch...
Well then Mitch, have you been watching your fiber intake?
My whatnow?
Flex looked at him with complete disgust. What friendly attitude there once was was entirely gone from his face now. Ramparte watched the two with a smirk ascending the left side of his face.
Give me the camera, Mitch.
I-I can't. I'm an intern and I need this experie-
The Most Healthiest Man Alive reached over and jerked the camera from Mitch with ease. Resting it on his mountain of a shoulder, Flex Mussél adjusted the settings on the camera back and forth.
You are clearly not strong enough to be holding such a contraption, Mr. Mitch. Now be quiet and let the Hounds of Health be your guide to education. Ramparte, my colleague and bestie, you have a movie for us tonight?
An old horror flick from my personal library. Let's see if it sheds some light on what a superhero is and what a superhero isn't, shall we?
Ramparte knelt down and turned the worn camcorder on. The projector flashed a blue screen against the dusty tarp. Hitting the triangle, the picture showed the words PLAY in the top right corner and a grainy scene from the 90s spurted to life.
The Catalyst stood up in a jolt of surprise; leaning against the wall a moment ago. He had watched this many, many times, but never before had he seen that ghost of a woman in this video cassette.
Mussél, did you see that...
Glancing over at Flex, he caught him eating popcorn from a bag that Ramparte could have sworn he didn't have when he came down. Speechless, he gestured at the bag. Red-handed, Flex looked down at the buttery morsels in longing, but tossed the bag over his shoulder- making Mitch leap out of the way to not get hit. The Man In White sighed and turned off the movie.
To be continued...
Mitch looked at it in confusion. Seeing this, Ramparte walked across the room and got uncomfortably close to the intern.
You done done it now, Mitch. You wound him up and now he's about to get poetic. May God have mercy on your soul...
Ramparte stared into Mitch's eyes intensely, parting his lips as to say something, but stopped. Noticing how frightened he was getting, The Catalyst stepped back and chuckled. Flex chuckled along with him.
Hardly. Everyone knows the existence of superheroes is a lie. There are no heroes. If there were, I would not have endured his neglect. His sideshow of a mission to adopt me and to gain more followers, no...
Ramparte twirled his cane in mesmerization. Mussél cracked his knuckles loudly.
Next week Cerberus knocks on the door of so-called superheroes, Mitch. And as much as I have looked on at Haven's career with great interest, I find myself hating the mask and not the man. He's great, phenomenal in the ring in fact. But he hides behind an illusion. El Califa Dragon is no different. They stroke their own pride with that illusion, and Pride is quite a deadly sin...
You've been sinning too, Mussél, haven't you?
Flex's eyes widened. Searching the room for that voice's source, he stumbled upon a bag filled with the fruits Cerberus hands out to the audience in attendance at the shows.
Yeah, I'm here Mr. Buttersworth. Enjoyed that buttered poppycorn, didn't you Butters? Buttercup stuffing his face with buttery butter, didn't he?
Losing his cool, Mussél tore at the bag in rage.
Stop it, Masquer! Now is not the time for this!
WEAR ME!!!
...Who are you talking to, Mussél?
Looking dead at Ramparte and Mitch like a deer discovered by oncoming headlights, Mussél dropped the bag, spilling out an assortment of apples, pears, and oranges.
I umm said now is not the time for this, my enigmatic friend. Now isn't the time for Haven. Leave him to me. Now should be the time for your feud with Hyada to come to a close.
Ramparte looked up at the ceiling and closed his eyes, gripping his cane and bringing back those moments he encountered Jonathan Hyada. The rocky win in his debut match in France at Ascension 71, the humiliation of being the first man eliminated at Apocalypse thanks to Hyada, and the narrow escape thanks to a well-placed thumb to the eye and The Cataclysm in their last bout. All three times Hyada fought The Catalyst tooth and nail to make a statement.
You're always on point, partner. Hyada's time has come. He has been the one thing that has kept me from fulfilling my List. Aligned with Haven, they are surely to become a green volcanic eruption, with Cerberus guarding wearily underground.
Hyada has become an enraged and callous man though, and like all callous men, he can set aside his emotions and learn something new...
Turn the camera back on, Mussél. I have something to say.
Fumbling with it, Mussél had left it resting on the projector while dealing with Masquer. He focused in and out on Ramparte until Ramparte was seen in mid-to-close range.
Hyada, if you're listening, listen closely...your actions have been recorded. Your fury is finally coming out, and what a sight it has been! I commend you on your climb as a fellow wrestler. With that in mind, allow me to invite you on board Cerberus's team.
Mitch froze. This was huge news and he wasn't even the one behind the camera. Even Flex seemed to be moved by what The Man In White was proclaiming.
Think it over, martial artist. You could be the Third Head of Cerberus. That's a monumentous leap for an already rising star such as yourself. You know you have it in you.
But if you deny us, well then...
"We shall see that at which dogs howl in the dark, and that at which cats prick up their ears after midnight."
Ramparte let his words linger, breathing in an inviting atmosphere. Without so much as a glance at Flex or Mitch, Ramparte picked up a bruised pear off of the ground and tossed it from one hand to the other.
I don't like politics. I don't care for who deserves what more than I in this company...but I do like sending messages...I do care about me- err us, Cerberus...
Seeing where this may be going, Mitch slowly turned to go up the stairs, but ran into Mussél, who dropped the camera again but was still recording from the ground.
Guys...if you're doing what I think you're going to do, then be advised that it's against the rules and you'll surely pay for what you-
Do you get paid, scrawny?
Umm, no...but I'm still working for WZCW and-
Unpaid interns aren't employees, Mitch.
Fine! Fine okay I'm not employed with WZCW, but this would still be a random act of violence against me. Surely you're both wise enough to see that.
I don't think you appreciate our dietary expertise, Mitch. Fruits like pears are packed with fiber, you know...
Ramparte looked at Mussél and gave a nod. Mussél grabbed Mitch's arm and lifted him up into his BowFlex, a Torture Rack. Screaming, Mitch continued to tell them they will be punished.
Ever since I've set foot in this place, I've been stalked by David Cohen, some HQ recruiter. I've been held down and Cerberus's uprising has stalled. It's unfair. You are a symbol of those people, Mitch. A living effigy. Don't take it personal. Think of it as an initiation into our world. You'll thank us one day...
..for helping you burn those calories. We're really only trying to help, after all.
And with that, Ramparte shoved the dirty piece of fruit into Mitch's mouth; grinding it hard against his jaws. Juices spurted from the intern's lips, dribbling from his chin as Flex let him go. Mitch coughed and coughed as he sat in a slump on the stairway. Grinning from ear to ear, Mussél patted him on his shoulder.
Bon Appétit, bitch...
We are coming, Young Justice, Mephisto Manifesto...
Cerberus Knocks...
Good~Night
Scene fades to white as Cerberus climbs the stairs and turns off the lights.
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