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  Alistaire Allocco
Posted by: Adamsama - 09-25-2018, 02:36 AM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

http://scwglorious.wordpress.com/2018/09...searching/

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  Ruby Amarant RP
Posted by: Ruby - 09-24-2018, 10:42 PM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

To say that Ruby Amarant was happy with where things stood for the time being would be presuming you knew anything at all about her, and we all know that's never the case.

When she agreed to return to Scarlet's side and resume the Red Empire's efforts in SCW, she didn't do so expecting Scarlet to be distracted by a new interest that just so happened to go hand-in-hand with the wrestling profession. Even seeing just how head over heels she seemed to be wasn't too concerning at first since this was nothing new, but putting more focus into trying to get the attention of Aaron Blackbourne as opposed to winning a tag match did not sit well with the more cold and calculating of the tandem at all. She had made sure this got across loud and clear to the nympho, and after Aaron had stood up her offer to join her in a hotel room together to enjoy Apocalypse, the message finally seemed to sink in as despite still trying to get his attention, the dangerous woman Ruby knew she could be returned the following Breakdown and reclaimed the victory from Sam Raine that was stolen from them in Ruby's mind with that tag match weeks prior.

It was a start, but more for Scarlet than for her, and that needed to change.

The next two weeks would focus on this Fatal Fortunes concept, where every aspect of every match would be chosen at pure random. It was an intriguing idea if you asked Ruby, and there were several possibilities that she could take a liking to such as a championship match or simply putting down someone higher up on the ladder. Of course, there were also several possibilities that didn't sit well with her, like the potential of having to oppose Scarlet in the ring or having to team with someone that wasn't Scarlet if anything pertaining to the tag titles was thrown into the mix; in the case of the latter, that was mostly because she knew the kind of meltdown her partner would have if Ruby was chasing after that pair of titles with someone else even if it wasn't by her own choice. Of course, SCW had to go and tweet out that everything was already drawn and being kept hidden away for safety purposes, but Ruby was willing to tempt fate and see what could be done to give her a bit of leeway.

She just needed to be careful not to tempt fate too much in this particular instance, lest she walk back down a path she swore off a long time ago when she wasn't the woman she is today.

This was the reason why she decided to take a little detour before the first of these Breakdowns. While Scarlet would be fine on her own for a bit in Buffalo getting ready, Ruby made an extra trip over to Manhattan and found herself bar hopping, though not because she was that desperate for a good drink. She didn't even drink anything that wasn't wine when she felt the occasion was appropriate. Her stays were always brief as she figured it would be the most likely place she'd fine the person she was looking for. After about an hour and ending up at the most upscale bar she could find, she figured that maybe she was simply wasting her time at this point until she heard a voice call out to the bartender she had just been questioning with no luck.

“Bartender! Next round's on me, especially including whatever the lovely little redhead you're chatting with wants.”

This got an obvious uproar of approval, especially since this place was quite pricey so for someone to offer an entire round they definitely had to be loaded and likely just showing it off. There was one person Ruby knew who used that as a calling card of sorts to announce his presence whenever he was out drinking, and it just so happened to be who she was looking for. It still didn't make her feel any less bitter when she turned and found herself staring up at the tall and handsome figure with slicked-back golden blonde hair and a physique that would make any lady swoon and pass out if he were wearing anything less than a business suit, though Ruby was likely the only exception.

Amarant: Ivan Telebor...

Telebor: Ruby Amarant... it's been a while since we've seen each other in person, though if you're out visiting bars I have a feeling you're looking for a certain someone. May I take a guess and say that your search is over?

Ivan Telebor was a self-made millionaire of Norwegian descent who had no problem burning through several thousand dollars in one night knowing he'd end up making five times as much back the next day. The businesses he owned were among the most profitable in the entire world, and he was a man that most women would kill to spend so much as five minutes in the presence of. If they only knew... what they didn't see were the underhanded means Ivan would resort to in shadier ventures and black market dealings that only added to his profits but rarely saw the light of day considering the questioning he'd face over it, especially when it came to taxes. Considering how much his wealth and power tended to go to his head, he was also not afraid to dabble in other things... things that would easily destroy every last trace of his public image and reputation if they got out, but rarely did because he had the money to easily make it all disappear in record time as though nothing happened to begin with. Plain and simple, the man was someone Ruby might have taken an interest in if he wasn't such a manipulative monster with everyone around him, and even calling him that was being overly generous.

Amarant: Don't get any ideas Ivan. Yes, I've been looking for you, and I'm not surprised I'd cross paths in a place where you can dump so much of your wealth down the drain just to get wasted and brag about doing so the next morning.

Telebor: There's no need to try and put yourself on a pedestal, my precious little gem. I know you're simply trying to keep this as 'just business' even if you feel as though you're playing a dangerous game asking me for help. I managed to work my magic and get your little friend that match you wanted so badly to help get her back on track, did I not? Come, have a seat with me and we can discuss whatever business you have today.

That knowing smirk... it made Ruby want nothing more than to rip his eyes out and shove them down his throat as he took a seat next to where she stood and she carefully followed suit when offered. Ivan even went out of his way to order the two of them some of the finest wine he could make the bartender retrieve for the pair, knowing it was all Ruby drank. What bothered Ruby about this man wasn't simply the way he carried himself in public feeling he was invincible when he could use his wealth and power like a shield to hide the terror beneath, it was the fact that he was smart enough to make the most out of being in such a position. He'd even mastered the ability to be able to read people's minds with psychic-like accuracy just by examining their facial features, a trick Ruby had been trying to master herself for a very long time. Add to that the ease of which he could pay off anybody he wanted to get whatever he desired, and there wasn't a piece of information on the planet he didn't have access to. This was why Ruby had begrudgingly texted him from the first disposable cell phone she could get her hands on to try and use this to her advantage, which paved the way for him to use a little bit of his “money magic” with SCW's board to get the Raine/Grey match booked on the previous Breakdown.

Telebor: Dare I ask what brings you out here this time around? The fact that you still remember my number and will go to any lengths to make sure I can't keep tabs on you suggests you've got something to hide.

Amarant: My life is none of your business Ivan. Never has been, never will be, and I'm not going to repeat myself on that front again.

Telebor: But of course dear. Far be it from me to try and force you into anything you don't want to be a part of. After all, what would Miss Grey think if she knew you were involved in a scenario that felt like a page straight out of what I'm sure would be one of her favorite books considering she named a move after it.

Amarant: For the record, Scarlet thinks reading is a waste of time. And you're going to leave her out of this.

Telebor: I can keep that promise. After all, you're far more my proverbial cup of tea.

The moment her glass of wine was set down in front of her, Ruby wasted no time in downing half of it just to forget he even said those words. She wanted nothing more than to regurgitate her heart right then and there and smash it with a hammer just to prove a point to him, and he could only chuckle knowing he was getting to her.

Telebor: I'll tell you this at least... if you're here in regards to that Fatal Fortunes event, I'm afraid I am of no help to you. Before you mention it, I am very much aware that I COULD bribe my way into an early sneak peak and have a few things shuffled around if I really wanted to, but I think leaving things as they are is more fun. After all, if it doesn't affect me then why risk throwing myself into the heart of chaos?

Amarant: I should've known you'd be too gutless to help.

Telebor: Are you that worried about what two weeks will do to this little friendship we both know you don't care as much for as you're letting on? Or perhaps you're simply getting... jealous?

Ruby bit her lip to keep from responding. The last thing she needed to hand over to Ivan was information he could use against her down the line. Sure, he knew he was getting to her, but if he didn't know to what extent then she still held some control over this situation. Thankfully, she came prepared with a plan B.

Amarant: Then perhaps you can help me in another endeavor. Since you've clearly been keeping an eye on SCW, no doubt mostly because of me, then I'm sure you're aware of what my partner's been up to.

Telebor: But of course. She has eyes for that Aaron Blackbourne fellow. I think that kid's got a good head on his shoulders, but someone boasting such a big imagination really should learn to lighten up a little more if you ask me.

Amarant: Scarlet's refusing to accept that he's committed to another relationship and she wants me to help fix that. Considering I don't care what happens to him as long as I render him powerless beneath my heel and use him as a stepping stone, I figured I can kill two birds with one stone by getting something that will pacify Scarlet for a time and give me the upper hand.

Telebor: Let me guess... you're asking me to waste my time doing a little digging in regards to getting you anything about this girl, or perhaps finding out if she even exists. Don't get me wrong, I certainly could, but what would I have to gain from it?

Ruby rubbed her temple with her fingers, figuring it wasn't going to be that easy. He no doubt let last week's request slide just to bask in the victory of knowing she even bothered to re-establish contact with him against her own better judgment, but now that he had her in his sights again he was going to play this however he saw fit to gain at least something from the encounter. She refused to answer him and went to grab her glass, but was taken aback a bit when he placed his hand over hers atop it. She stared at him as he took a deep drink of his own wine before giving her the most “sincere” smile he could manage in the face of someone who saw through his usual charm.

Telebor: Considering what you're asking of me, I don't think it would be too much to ask for something small in return. Perhaps... a date? And before you refuse, I'm not talking about going any farther than perhaps just a dinner outing. No going back to my place or anything along those lines, just a nice little chat to catch up. Agree to that, and I'll dig up everything you want to know and then some.

Ruby's eyes narrowed into a glare. It was never that simple with this man, and she knew it. It didn't matter how innocent he tried to look, because she knew that dinner would always be the start and he'd find some way to get it to go farther than that. Even if he was telling the truth for once, the last thing she wanted was to give him an opening to try and steer their conversation into finding out anything he could use against her, as she would admit (though never publicly) he was one of the extreme;y few people that could pull that off against her. She knew this would be a mistake, but at this point she'd trapped herself by willingly walking into this in the first place, and while she could likely get what she needed on her own, if shady means were required then it was better if nothing could fully be linked back to her. With a sigh, she finished her wine and stood up, her mind at least coming up with a temporary solution to buy herself some time until she had a better plan of attack.

Amarant: Tell you what: get me anything you can first, and I'll agree to one little dinner date with you, but that's it.

Telebor: So that's the game you want to play, huh? Fine with me, my precious little gem. You'll have whatever you want sooner than you think, and then we can get down to further business. I'll be in touch.

He punctuated his final statement with a wink as Ruby gave him the most disgusted look she could muster before storming off, her job done despite the bitter taste she knew it would leave in her mouth. At least for now she knew she had a guaranteed method of getting what she needed to aid Scarlet while setting herself up for easier success, and the rest would be figured out in due time. She just hoped Scarlet would appreciate the effort she was going through just to make her happy, because if Scarlet knew the truth she could only imagine how she would respond, and she knew she wouldn't like it one bit no matter what it turned out to be.

***

We find ourselves in a room that looks like quite the upscale affair, though we cannot confirm if this is simply another room we have yet to see within the mansion/castle that Scarlet Grey owns or someplace else entirely. Considering the cozy fireplace, the extremely comfy reading chairs, the rows upon rows of bookshelves that call to mind a private library amidst the elegant carpeting and ornate walls, it's easy to assume the former, although the latter is just as possible when you realize that aside from the flames and a few book covers the color red is sorely lacking. Regardless of the true answer, the main reason we're here is because of one half of the Red Empire, Ruby Amarant, meditating on the floor in front of the fire. She's very much aware that a camera is trained on her, but she refuses to open her eyes to acknowledge it even as she begins to speak.

Amarant: I have to admit, for the first time since I've arrived here SCW has managed to intrigue me. For the next two weeks they've decided to leave everything up to the spin of a wheel, and I do mean EVERYTHING. For all I know, I could walk into Breakdown this week and walk away holding their top prize, or perhaps I could be given the chance to embarrass one of the countless names wasting space on this roster that have only been good for reminding us how good they used to be or how good they believe they are. Perhaps I could get some poor soul trapped inside a steel cage to toy with, or SCW could have some useless match concept stashed away they might throw on there hoping to embarrass someone. No matter what happens, those in charge have finally done something worthwhile by leaving it all in the hands of fate, taking away the ability for biased decision making and freeing themselves from the burden of concocting excuses for why they believe certain situations are "fair" or "worthwhile" to the anger of some egocentric peon that will always find fault with it.

Amarant: Perhaps that sounds like I'm trying to stir the pot and insinuate that I am but another name in the long list of people who have some sort of issue with the powers in charge, but the difference between myself and all of them is that I simply hate everyone equally. As much as I could speak against the general incompetence of the family that runs this place, I could also write several novels in regards to the people that work for them. Maybe that's some of my own annoyance with my present situation shining through, but it's hard to argue against where someone of my intellect should be in standing compared to where I currently find myself, especially when I've only been given one chance to get anywhere that was unfortunately lost due to my partner's latest obsession.

This is the point when Ruby's eyes finally open, and the redhead in the gothic-inspired black and red leather attire allows her annoyance to be seen in full. She knows exactly what people want to hear out of her right now, and while she could easily deny them until time itself came to an end, it would be far smoother sailing going forward if she just dealt with it now to silence the masses before they continued to pester her about the "trouble in paradise" they perceived after watching them carefully since the duo's return.

Amarant: Considering I don't have any one specific person in front of me that I can verbally abuse as proof of the claims for where I stand in the overall pyramid of intelligence, I suppose I should address the proverbial elephant in the room while it's still a relevant topic in your minds. For those with terrible memories or short attention spans, that "one chance" I just mentioned was the return of the Red Empire to the tag team ranks where we unfortunately failed, although I do not know how two women who consider themselves a force for the fans can take pride in winning what ultimately became a glorified handicap match. I'm afraid I cannot begin to tell you the sudden origin of this newfound obsession my partner has developed in regards to one Aaron Blackbourne, but I can attest to the problems her obsession has caused when she was focused more on getting his attention over doing what she proved she's more than capable of last week, and that's putting the inferior in their place. Under different circumstances, it's become painfully clear now that Sam Raine and Chrissy Gardner simply do not measure up to us in any facet, though I know their line of thinking in that regard will not change. Human beings don't show weakness when their fragile egos are on the line, after all.

Amarant: Your answer, for the record, is no... no, there is no internal issue with the Red Empire. Have I been annoyed with Scarlet lately for her infatuation? Yes, but being annoyed with her when not having her head in the game ultimately costs us opportunities is no different than if you were annoyed by a friend for not taking something as seriously as you do. It's sad when the current state of the human race is for everyone to perceive a problem that does not exist stemming from the tiniest and most irrelevant of things. While you can all continue to be so overly sensitive thinking it makes you "cool" or whatever the politically correct masses of the world have deluded themselves into believing, you can rest assured that Scarlet, and the Red Empire as a whole, will ultimately be where we belong: at the very top ruling over all.

This is when Ruby slowly begins to rise to her feet, her irritation vanishing in the presence of her usual cold and calculating demeanor. She never could understand why the people of the world found trying to be "sensitive to every last little thing" to be a trend worth getting behind, but the more it clashed with the collective egos of the population the more she could at least amuse herself with humanity's self-destruction. Despite what she's said, however, she still feels there's one last little thing to talk about before the time for talking comes to an end as far as she's concerned.

Amarant: If I did have to address any one person in particular, then I suppose I should speak to the man caught in my partner's gaze despite the low likelihood that our paths will cross out of everyone on the roster taking part in Fatal Fortunes. To be fair to you, I did warn Scarlet that you would be difficult for her to win over because you've proven yourself to be one of those "true love will conquer all" kinds of hopeless romantics that typically find themselves dead in the works of Shakesphere. However, to be fair to my partner, I should offer you a warning as well: the more you try to fight what she's offering you, the worse things are going to get. Scarlet tells the world time and time again that when she wants something, she WILL get it no matter what, and that isn't an empty threat born of her frustrations, it's a cold hard fact. She will stop at nothing to win you over, but Scarlet isn't the only one you should be concerned with Aaron. While Scarlet's distraction is primarily her fault, some blame has to end up on your shoulders as well regardless of whether your role in this was intentional or not, and if your continued resistance keeps her focus dvivided, then you're leaving me with no choice but to help resolve the issue myself. And before you start believing your world will finally begin to make sense again, if I have to resolve the issue then I can promise you it will be at the expense of a former two time television champion to make it clear what will soon be ingrained into the minds of every man and woman in SCW: the Red Empire is not going anywhere, nor will it stop until SCW has been conquered and claimed in its name.

With her piece spoken and points made perfectly clear, Ruby takes her leave of this room as the scene fades, leaving behind the sense of dread in her words that all would do well to take heed of, but no one will dare to acknowledge. The greatest of threats are always the ones right under your nose, and the longer the roster of SCW continues to overlook the Red Empire, the worse things will end for them. Fatal Fortunes will simply be the occasion that proves this more perfectly than anything else, and they all have no one to blame but themselves.

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  "Sisterly" Advice (Angelica Jones Fatal Fortunes)
Posted by: The Matt - 09-24-2018, 06:07 PM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

http://legacyrevival.blogspot.com/2018/0...dvice.html

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  AJ Helms Fatal Fortunes RP
Posted by: ThatWasley - 09-24-2018, 03:19 PM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

OOC: Okay, so this is one I've been building towards ever since I introduced the Bella character a couple months ago, and truly starts the arc I've been building towards with her, which is a nice shift for the AJ character. Really enjoyed writing this one, getting to play around with who AJ is and break down some of those morals from his first couple years as a character. Also, it's worth noting, that his views in the promo section AREN'T mine, should anyone think it's just OOC comments lol. Good luck to all and enjoy! 

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  The Ultimatum
Posted by: Corner G - 09-24-2018, 11:48 AM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

“You wanted a war. You brought an army for a war. I am just one man… but I will bring that war to your doorstep and I will bring you and your army down POINT BLANK!”
 
**STATIC**
 
The sound of laughter resonates through the scene as the last line from the recently-released Donovan Kayl promotional video airs. The television upon which it aired now shows nothing but the snow of static, the piece brought to it’s close. As the scene pans around, we see Damian Angel, better known to the world as “The Devil Himself” grinning malevolently at the television.
 
“Well then,” Damian says to himself. “The game is afoot.”
 
The scene fades…
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Club Chaos.
 
The club owned by Cindy Todd, located in the heart of Las Vegas, has become the home of much chaos and debauchery. It’s reputation, primarily driven by its alternative clientele, is such that most visitors tend to refrain unless they were looking for fulfill a specific king. So of course, for a man like Damian Angel, he would walk right through the doors, disregarding the bouncers and security personnel, and move straight through to the bar. Once there, he moves immediately to the bar, where a Black Sunday already awaits him, the ingredients stocked specifically for his arrival as they tend to be too much for most. It is then that he moves through the bar, ignoring the masses attempting to seduce him further into the mindless trances they already enjoy. Instead, he finds his focus on the VIP area, which he walks through with impunity, passing Cindy as he does and moving directly to the door heading to the roof of the establishment. Cindy glares at him as he goes, prompting Damian to smirk as he takes a drink from his glass. Moving up the winding staircase, Damian pauses briefly, hearing footsteps behind him. Smiling to himself, he completes his ascent an stands out on the roof. After a moment, he finds himself joined on the roof by the club proprietor and one of the most dangerous women in the world.
 
“You have a lot of fucking nerve, Damian,” she says.
 
“Oh?” Damian responds with a simple and curt “oh”. “Is that any way to greet an old friend?”
 
“We are no friends,” Cindy says emphatically, almost driving her words into Damian’s chest.
 
“That hurts,” he says in an almost-mocking sing-song tone. “Here I thought you and I shared something special.”
 
“What do you want?” she asks him point blank. “Are you here to taunt me? Or grab some of my customers for your games?”
 
“Nothing of the sort,” he says as he turns, facing Cindy and drinking from his glass. “Actually, it is you I came for today.”
 
“Yeah, I’m still not interested,” she responds. “I’ve had my life controlled by one psychopath before… I don’t need to start following another one. I follow no man. I lead.”
 
Damian only chuckles as he drinks. “Steven Devious does not hold a candle to what I am capable of. Even at his peak before your sister burned down his compound, he was not strong enough to even comprehend the depths of my power…”
 
Damian tilts his head, spotting Cindy tensing up.
 
“Or were you the one who burned down the compound?” he asks, again almost mocking her. “It has been so long… the details have all succumbed to a fog.”
 
“Just think of how foggy they’ll be when you’re thrown off this roof,” Cindy steps forward. Damian only laughs.
 
“You are not going to throw me off this roof, Cindy,” Damian says in a very matter-of-fact tone.
 
“And why’s that?” she asks.
 
“Because,” Damian begins, almost sounding like he’s explaining something that shouldn’t have to be explained. “You need me, Cindy. You need me because, as long as I am here, you have an opportunity at redemption.”
 
Redemption?” Cindy scoffs. “Is that what you call it?”
 
“Imagine how much you would endear yourself to Donovan…” he sneers. “To Kennedy. And you and I both know that would not be accomplished by casting me off this roof.”
 
“And why not?” Now Cindy is clearly humouring Damian, who doesn’t appear to be moved by her tone.
 
“Too brutish,” he says completely unironically. “To put me down properly requires more than mere brutality. It requires stealth and poise and consistency. I am merely a man in a vessel right now. Casting me off this roof… killing this body… would only send me into another form, and I would come back more powerful and more dangerous than ever before. And imagine how you… how those you care about, Cynthia… imagine how they might feel knowing you squandered the opportunity to put me down for a moment of anger and passion.”
 
“You’re truly insane,” Cindy says directly in Damian’s face. He smirks, finishing his drink and pressing the glass into her chest.
 
“Maybe so,” he says. “But is that a risk you are truly willing to take?”
 
Damian grins, pushing past Cindy, who stands her ground.
 
“So why are you even here?” she asks, getting more fed up with Damian’s games. “To taunt me?”
 
Damian smirks, turning back to her and wagging his finger. He pulls a package out of his pocket, tossing it over to her. “To taunt him.”
 
Cindy, confused, opens up the package and pulls out a small picture… it’s a picture of her with her good friend and the man who saved her life, Donovan Kayl.
 
“Why did you…” Cindy shoots her head up mid-question to face Damian, but her question is cut off by the suddenness of Damian no longer being in her presence. All she has to remember this meeting by is the glass he pressed to her chest and the picture “gifted” to her. “Fuck…”
 
The scene shifts away.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
“There will be no grandiose speech from me today. Oh no. As the world prepares for SCW’s Fatal Fortunes, I shall keep my statements brief.
 
To whomever draws the unfortunate position of standing across the ring from the Devil Himself… pray. Pray now. Pray to whichever ill-gotten God you believe in, because once you are face to face with the Devil Himself, there will be none left to save you! I will be the end of you… the Alpha and the Omega. Beginning and end! The avatar of the man for whom my second message is intended. And, for many of you, being that avatar will be the closest any of you get to being recognized as World Champion. Who says the Devil Himself does not also give?
 
My second message is for Donovan Kayl. Surprise, surprise. I know this is predictable, and while I do embrace the cause of chaos, of breaking down the expected and replacing it with the erratic, I find myself compelled to respond to you… your return, your insistences that you will be the end of me… my “maker”, so to speak. I find it humorous because, until now, I have had your number every step of the way, save for the minor hiccup at Apocalypse. I have had tabs on your travel plans, and the ear of people close to you who you cannot begin to imagine have been compromised. I have seen every steps you were planning to take, again – save one. And I must say, Donovan, getting that whore to drive you to Chicago… well… even I did not expect you be so brash. People talk, Donovan. People whisper.
 
But bare in mind there is nothing you can do… no steps you can take… that I do not know about. I have you in the palm of my hand… or is it someone close to you that I have in my back pocket? A little food for thought. But regardless of the correct answer, understand that this ends when I decide it ends. You are not in control. You will never have that control again. You have two options if you wish to walk away and not be carted away on a stretcher:
 
Bend the knee.
 
Or wave the white flag.
 
There is no in between. Absolute fealty or surrender are your only options here. Choose wisely and I may allow you to live out the rest of your days in obscurity and disgrace. Choose wrong? And I finish you myself. See? It is simple.”
 

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  Fatal Fortunes
Posted by: Corner G - 09-24-2018, 10:50 AM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

cornerstonedk.wordpress.com/2018/09/24/fatal-fortunes/

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  Killing It
Posted by: Huddie - 09-24-2018, 10:06 AM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

OOC: Reusing my last rp for Hudson from last week.

Killing It

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  No Fancy Title
Posted by: EyeYoshi - 09-24-2018, 09:47 AM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

#ooc Going to be re using my last BD Rp for Ikiro.

===============================

Things had not gone so well for Ikiro Yoshida, 


There was a lot going on in his personal life which he had tried to keep private for the most part. His feelings for Sienna Swann continued to grow, but the beautiful Angel and he had spoken to him recently and through the convo they decided that it was best for now to keep things distant. She told Ikiro she had a lot of issues herself which she wanted to get sorted so she could be the Angel he always see her as.

Ikiro understood although felt there was somethings she wasn’t telling him, but he had convinced himself that she was more than likely trying to protect him. Which in his eyes made her even more of an Angel. Fast forward a little and we find ourselves on the verge o a huge with match for Ikiro at Apocalypse. He was set to face one of the top female talents in SCW if not THE top female talent in Zoe Sperling, aka Syren.

Their last bout didn’t go as planned for Ikiro with a masked individual attacking him and ruining their match. Syren was obsessed with regaining her SCW World Championship and looking at Ikiro as nothing more than an nuisance SCW put in her path. Mr. D had decided to put them back in the ring tonight at Apocalypse. 

Before hand Mr. D had tried to get the identity of the individual under the mask but to no avail due to CHBK not allowing them to sign with SCW. It was a ploy by management which didn’t work. Ikiro found this out and didn’t want a repeat of what happened on Breakdown so opted to ask his two friends Ryu Ishimoto and Hiroshi to accompany him to the ring to make sure nothing happens. They had agreed of course, why wouldn’t they? 

So in his excitement but also to use as a visual deterrent before the show Ikiro tweeted out to the world that he would not be alone as he sat at the back of the car while it was heading to the arena. 

EyeYoshi: <There, now they will understand you do not toy with EyeYoshi.>

Hiroshi: <it has been quite a while since I got to hit someone in or outside of a wrestling ring, this should be fun.>

Ryu: <You only wish to throw down with the Canadian Heartbreak Kid.>

Hiroshi: <It has been a long time since we last met.>

There is a chuckle from the grizzled veteran from Japan while he drank from his water. Ryu however was a little more composed just like Ikiro.

Ryu: <You do not have to worry; Hiroshi and I shall do best to make sure nothing happens to you tonight or any night for that matter moving forward. This is a huge opportunity for you my friend, I have followed her career and a win would raise your stock.>

Ikiro nods, this match while it concerned also served as a great means to distract him from what was going on elsewhere. Finding out his wife and child were alive put him through the ringer, it really did. He still hadn’t decided how he was going to handle properly a lot of which was due to his feelings for Sienna which they of course had consummated before Rise to greatness. 

Upon arrival of the Arena, the fans outside all tried snapping photographs as they drove by. The windows of the car were blacked out and while usually Ikiro would have stopped to entertain the fans of SCW, this time he did not. 

The car would pull up outside in the parking lot area, Yoshi the first to exit and head to the boot where he grabs his bag. Ryu and Hiroshi follow as all three begin to head into the Arena and make their way to the backstage area entrance. There three looked intimidating to the same, hell Hiroshi alone was intimidating enough, a man who was known to have one of if not the stiffest chop in the world. 

The three continued to talk amongst themselves while heading toward the entrance where security stood, along with them was Dean Black dressed in jeans, a black t-shirt and a leather jacket. He was usually a go to guy if you needed something and was the man you spoke to generally if MR. D wasn’t around. Ikiro smiles and shakes his hand.

EyeYoshi: “Mr. Black, very good to see you. How are you?”

Dean nods before shaking hands with Hiroshi and Ryu. His attention returns to Ikiro.

Dean: “Busy, a lot going tonight as you know. Which to be honest is why I’m here. I’m afraid management have decided not to allow your two friends here into the building tonight.”

Ikiro stood there for a moment unsure what he had said, it was true that he was learning English and getting more and more fluent in it. Sometimes when people talked to him he would zone a little. Ryu looked to Hiroshi and took over the convo.

Ryu: “You are not allowing us into arena? Why?”

He nods to Ryu who folds his arms with a slight annoyed look on his face now.

Dean: “Honestly, management see the tweet from Ikiro here earlier and that’s got them on edge. They want this event to go off without a lot of problems and having you two at ringside with Ikiro tonight could cause problems.”

Ryu: “We are here not cause problems, we here to make sure no problems occur tonight.”

Dean: “I get that, but we’ve taken precautions tonight, beefed up security so nothing should happen and Ikiro can have himself a proper match tonight.”

Ikiro: <What is going on?>

Ryu covers his face and lets out a disgruntled sigh. Hiroshi slaps the shoulder of Ikiro and looks up at the King of Karaoke with annoyance.

Hiroshi: <We aren’t allowed into arena.> 

Ikiro: <What? Why not?>

The look on ikiro said it all really not only to both Ryu and Hiroshi but to Dean Black away who could sympathize with all three men.

Dean: “I get it, you have little trust in the system here right now.  A lot of people do, but tonight is going to be fine okay. Tell Ikiro that he has my word that nothing will go down tonight. We’ve got things covered.”

Ikiro: “You have covered?”

Dean: “Yeah, we’re in Chicago we got it covered. So you just focus on your match, best I can do is let your two friends stick around backstage in a guest room. Watch the show from there.”

Ikiro runs his hands through his hair and begins to wince, not in pain just frustration. This wasn’t how he had hoped things would happen but here we were. He wanted to have them in his corner, if you can count on anyone it’s your friends after all. 

Dean: “Sorry but can we hurry this up, you’re not the only ones I need to talk to before tonight’s show.”

Ryu: “Yes, of course. We appreciate the hospitality Mr. Black. The guest would be fine, could we stay with Ikiro until the show starts?”

Hiroshi: <This is waste of time, we just go find them and kick their ass now.>

Almost immediately Ryu snapped back at the grizzled vet’s direction giving him a death glare.

Ryu: <We shall do no such thing, this could cause issues for Yoshida-San. We are here to support not cause chaos.>

Hiroshi: <There better be Sake, I do not like the alcohol in this country.>

Security of course throughout this stand stoic while watching and listening to this discussion. Dean to all three men and motions for an answer.

Ikiro: “Fine! You say they can stay backstage?”

Dean Black nods.

Ikiro: “Very well I trust SCW’s judgement. Everything is just very frustrating for EyeYoshi.”

Dean: “I get it bro, I do. Don’t worry focus on your match tonight okay? Good luck, and hope you two enjoy the show.”

Ryu: “So do we. Thank you for hospitality.”

Dean nods again and says something to Security, the three men sign in and given id badges for the night ahead before heading inside the arena and going to the locker room area. Of course, later on the show would go on for all and sundry, there was a stacked card which the SCW fans were treated to some incredible matches. The return of Chris Cannon for Example and Sienna Swann defending her World Championship for the very first time.

Seeing her with that belt brought a smile to Ikiros face, he was very proud of her just like many were. But for Ikiro the night didn’t go as he had hoped at all. He was attacked again by the masked man, the match itself didn’t even get underway properly at all. A man called Thirteen leapt from the crowd to try and stop proceedings, but it was too little too late in the eyes of the King of Karaoke while he nursed his wounds. He was not happy while being checked for a concussion by the medical staff of SCW. 

SCW Doc: “If you hold still for a minute the fast this’ll be over.”

Yoshida-San wasn’t alone in the room, Hana Ito was there to help facilitate the language barrier between Ikiro and the doc.

Hana: <Please stay still so he can check you over.>

EyeYohshi: <Leave me alone, I am no baby. I feel fine, I have had much worse than that.>

Hana: <I’m sure you have, but it’s company policy to do this. It won’t take long.>

EyeYoshi: <Policy can kiss EyeYoshi’s ass. After what happened out there tonight, EyeYoshi does not care about policy! This could have been avoided Hana, but SCW denied my friends.>

Hana: <What happened out there tonight was unfortunate…>

Before she could continue, the door to the room opened and in walked Hiroshi and Ryu. Both men look very annoyed, the SCW Doc immediately holds up his hands.

SCW Doc: “I’ll come back later, don’t go anywhere Ikiro without seeing me first okay?”

Yoshida waves him off

Hana: “Mr. Ishimoto, a pleasure to see you again.”

Ryu: “Likewise Ito-chan, what happened out there?”

EyeYoshi groans.

EyeYoshi: “Apparently it was unfortunate.”

Hana: “It was.”

Hiroshi rolls his eyes while walking over to Ikiro and looks him over himself.

Hiroshi: <No, what is unfortunate was putting our trust in SCW to protect Yoshida-San. We would have done a much better job than that Stranger Things guy.>

EyeYoshi looks at Hiroshi confused.

EyeYoshi: <Stranger things?>

Ryu: <He speaks of Thirteen, comparing him to Eleven from Stranger Things.>

EyeYoshi: <Ooooh the little girl! Yes, EyeYoshi gets it now.>

Ikiro then laughed at the thought as did Hiroshi. Hana Ito however wasn’t laughing, she was concerned.

Hana: <SCW really is sorry for what happened tonight, it isn’t like they didn’t do all they could to stop this from happening.>

Ryu: <But they did do all they could, only it was more of a hinderance than an actual solution. Very disappointing Ms. Ito.>

Hana: <Well I can pass on any grievances to Mr. D if you would prefer, I know he values Mr. Yoshida’s presence in the company.>

Ryu: <You can tell our grievances, but also tell him that Hiroshi and I wish to discuss the opportunity to have an SCW contract. We are not going anywhere, we wish to stick around and help our friend best we can. If we must sign a contract with the company, so be it. But make no mistake this will not happen again to him. I will not allow it to even if we have to take matters int our own hands.>

Hana nods immediately and says her goodbyes to everyone in the room. Ikiro holds the back of his head wincing.

EyeYoshi: <I think I have concussion…>

Ryu: <Nonsense, there is nothing up there to get concussed!>

That through about another round of laughter form the trio, Ikiro obviously hurting still as Ryu pats his long time friend on the shoulder. 

EyeYoshi: <Did I hear right, you wish to sign deal with SCW?>

Ryu: <Yes. This shall not happen again.>

Hearing that put a smile on the face of Ikiro, he had hoped one day the two of them would be in the same company once more. With Hiroshi with them they could possibly be quite the force in SCW, only time would tell however because they still had to ink a deal, and no one really knew whether Mr. D would even accept this kind of proposal….

But the idea of Ichiban reforming in the United States had to be a interesting proposition for SCW to increase its presence in the Asian market…

Surely?




Vs. Ravyn

The camera is lit, the shot is near perfection. Ikiro Yoshida stands in front of the camera with both Ryu and Hiroshi either side of him. All three men are dressed in suits, the look very much the professional type. Ikiro’s hair is tied back into a bun. All three men stair at the camear, however it is only Yoshida-San who addresses it…

Rec.


EyeYoshi: “I cam to America to compete, I came here to have fun. Lately it feels like I have been unable to do either recently. Facing Syren was meant to be a huge deal, but she looks at EyeYoshi as nothing more than a nuisance than an opponent she could learn from. Instead she only cares about regaining her SCW World Championship. The very same championship that rests on the beautiful Sienna Swanns shoulder. Now I have always been respectful to my opponents whenever I have faced them, it was how I was taught.”

EyeYoshi: “But the lack of respect I have received recently both from my opponents and SCW hasn’t gone unnoticed and EyeYoshi is now going to change this. Standing with me is Ryo Ishimoto and my good friend Hiroshi. They shall be signing contracts with SCW very soon, hopefully at Breakdown tomorrow night so what happened two weeks ago and last week at Apocalypse cannot happen again. But EyeYoshi doesn’t believe SCW has the capacity to protect him, she he shall do it himself.”

EyeYoshi: “A man who hides behind a mask, not a man they are coward and EyeYoshi wishes for them to know that they are most fortunate that we do NOT know who they are. But we shall, we shall unmask you and then punish you for what you have done to the King of Karaoke. Because this is NOT a game to me, unlike to each of you who I know are probably to listening to me now and laughing.”

Ikiro shakes his head.

EyeYoshi: “Ravyn Taylor, you and EyeYoshi will face off tomorrow night. I would like to offer respect, but I know you will show none in kind to EyeYoshi. You love to play the games of the mental kind, EyeYoshi likes to play games of the physical kind, like Twister. Only there shall be no wheel of fortune to pick a colour for this game, there shall be no rolling of the dice at all. Because I will show exactly who it is you are facing just like I did to God at Rise to greatness. You are incredible talent, this is a huge match, maybe even Main event of Breakdown.”

EyeYoshi: “I should be humbled by the opportunity, but you have taken that away from EyeYoshi and it is now time I take something from you and especially your wife. The game as of now is OVER!”

It was short, it was sweet, it was too the point. Ikiro looks at the camera with a very different demeanour now, he isn’t happy about the situation or the last few weeks. It is all coming about head for the King of Karaoke and hopefully tomorrow night a week before Fatal Fortunes Ikiro can get some momentum going into a show that was left entirely up to chance, unlike tomorrow night where he could take full control of his destiny at least once more…

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  #TrueStory
Posted by: BME - 09-24-2018, 07:45 AM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

Apocalypse.
September 9th; 2018



Blake Mason accomplished what he set out to do, complete the drive for five. Marie Jones proved to be a challenge. He knew should would come to play. Accounting for the fact that she did beat him at some point a year ago, getting his win back felt good. With that chapter of his life behind him; onward. He had the rest of the show to watch. More importantly than that, he had a friend to re-connect with.


Having showered and dressed, Blake enjoyed the rest of Apocalypse from his luxury box, initially, he wanted to try to be “one of the boys/girls” by hanging out in the locker room with them, it soon became apparent that the locker room still didn’t trust him. He accepts that, he has has to do more to gain their trust. Being honest with himself, what is the point of having money if you can’t spend it. During the main event against Giovanni and Selena Frost, he was half paying attention. His mind was someplace else.


Where?   



“So now you have time for me?” Regan’s voice called out to Blake as he continues to half pay attention to the action at ringside.



Blake turns around to greet Regan. She is dressed casually. Her match with Owen Cruze earlier in the night was more taxing than she likely expected. All and all she looks refreshed. Blake greets her with a smile.  “I wish I had an excuse for my absence, Regan. Chalk it up to me being an absentee friend.”



Regan shrugs. “Business as usual. Gotcha.”



Blake nods. “Yep. Standard.”


Blake motions to the empty couch for her to sit on. She takes him up on his request. He, however, remains standing. “Just want to say that I am proud of you tonight. Not for beating Owen. Your victory was never in doubt. The show of respect? Nice touch. Plus it helps you didn’t break his neck.”


“I’m not becoming a girl scout anytime soon, get that image out of your head. The only reason he can walk is because of his dad. That’s it. Don’t read to much into it.”




“Regan, you’re a GOOD person. Never in doubt. I don’t care what story the company tries to sell to the audience. My opinion about you will never change. I got your back. Always.”



Regan scoffs. “Funny way of showing it.”



Blake opts to sit down next to Regan. He leans back to make himself comfortable. “I haven’t publicly denounced you, have I? No. I haven’t. Just be a bit absent, that’s all. I suck as a friend. Always have. Your cousin reminds me of that every time we bump to each other. As hard as it is knowing that Kennedy can’t stand to be in the same room with me, somehow, I need to make that right.”


“Good luck with that.” Regan smirks.



“Heh. Your honesty is always appreciated.” Blake smirks. “In case you're wondering why your sister vouched for me, I asked you here for a couple reasons. Number one, I miss talking. Number two, Mikaela and I bumped into each other last night. We decided to hang out. Dinner to be more specific.”


Regan narrows her eyes. She glares at Blake. Given his history with women the reaction he was getting from her wasn’t unexpected at all. “This isn’t happening.”


“Regan...” Blake holds up his hands in a defensive posture. “We could have kept this from you, ok. I’m here, right now, being honest. You don’t need to worry about me making a play for Mikaela. I doubt I am old enough for her liking anyway.”


Blake chuckles. Regan remains stone faced. Deciding to push the conversation forward, Blake continues. “Aside from that? Going to make everything awkward. Imagine if Bree found out about Mik and I’s dinner? She wouldn’t be thrilled. That affects your alliance, more problems then we are both willing to deal with. Before some TMZ articles surfaces trying to ship me and MIk, now you know. There is enough gossip going around. The last thing we all need is more complications. Your life already has enough of them.”


Regan nods, conceding to that point. With a raised eyebrow she says, “Your one to talk. Taylor Chase?”


Blake was thrown off by Regan’ mentioning Tay’s name. “Come again?”


Regan tilts her head to the side. “She tried to make a deal with you to end Owen’s career, minus outright seduction. Am I right?”


Blake groaned. He had no intention of broadcasting to the world that Taylor Chase tried to play the role of the seductress. Since Taylor appears to have told Regan about their deal, there was no point hiding the truth. Wasn’t like Regan was going to broadcast it to the world. He trust her enough to be honest. Nodding, Blake says. “Yes. She did. Clearly I didn’t take her up on her offer.”


“Wow. This is a first. You not selling your soul when you get horny.”


Blake smiles. “How I told you how much I miss you?”


Regan offers a small smirk, nothing more. “It’s none of my business. You don’t need me to tell you Taylor is trouble. You left Bree because you felt her wanting to remove Amy out of her life borderlined on obsessed. Taylor Chase will bring you more trouble than you think Bree did. Doubt Chris will appreciate you going after his brother’s girlfriend.”


Blake sighs. “Chris has Sienna to worry about, I doubt he is a position to judge.”


“Bl--”


“Regan. Every time Chris walks into a room Sienna is a school girl in heat. A blind man can see that. Just saying. She hasn’t gotten the hint yet. Chris needs to be a little more forceful to push Sienna to the side. We all know how badly that can end, for everyone.”


“Part of you doesn’t want that? Makes Kelcey available--”


Before Regan can continue with a scenario Blake doesn’t want to give any thought to, he interjects. “I accepted long ago I have done way to much damage to Kelcey to even entertain that. I moved on. Being single doesn’t change that. Not my business what happens in their marriage. Just pointing out facts, Regan. IF anything was going on between me and Taylor, which, for the record, it isn’t. Chris not appreciating a hypothetical scenario where I am hypothetically messing with Taylor, he should worry about keeping his house in order. If by some anomaly something did happen between Chris and Sienna. Not my problem. I can’t get involved. I won’t. At all.”



“Next thing you know, you’re going to write a book called “If I Did It.”



“Don’t compare me to O.J.”

“Wish I could believe you, Blake. Sadly I don’t. Death, taxes and your feelings for Kelcey are guaranteed. It is one thing to come to work and not get your hands dirty. Human emotions are a bitch. You love Kelcey. Doesn’t matter that there is a rift between you two. You can’t convince me you’d turn the other cheek. That’s not you.”


“It is now, Regan. It has to be.” Blake says trying to convince himself more than Regan that he can stay one hundred percent out of any drama that could occur. “I was concerned about Chris coming back. Didn’t know if he wanted my head or not. At least I don’t need to look over my shoulder; I’m grateful for that. You are looking at a drama free Blake Mason. New and improved. A bit more honest. Just wanted to let you know that Mikaela and I enjoyed a nice dinner.”


Regan pats Blake on the shoulder. “I do appreciate the honesty. Thanks. Doesn’t mean I trust you with my sister. I hope you’re telling the truth. Like you said, Bree would flip out. We don’t need that.”


“Glad you agree.” Blake nods.  “Oh, there is one thing I am curious about. I broke up a fight between Josh and your husband. Why were they fighting? What did Josh do? Never wanted to say anything before, because of the alliance, but Josh Hudson is scum. He’s not like us. We are good people who make the occasional mistake every now and then. Josh? I appreciate that he has helped you out, that hasn’t gone unnoticed. The difference between people like US and people like Josh. He is pure scum. There is no way around that. So if Josh has done anything to upset David to the point he is willing to confront the bastard in public. I need to know.”


Regan says firmly. “Its been dealt with, Blake. Leave it at that.”



“Regan... come on... don’t shut me out.”



Regan rolls her eyes. “Your one to talk.”



“I am dead serious about this.” Blake says more forcibly. “If Josh is a problem, he needs to be dealt with. I should have never allowed him to marry Rachel. He’s not good for her. He is no good for anyone. Pains me to say, I looked up to the dude. I came to accept that people like him, he isn’t good people.”


“Again, it’s been handled in house. Let it go. Back off.” Regan says adhemaly.



Blake wanted to push. He felt with every fiber of his being that Regan was keeping something from him. For the time being, he swallowed his pride. What was more important to him was reestablishing their friendship. If she was keeping something from him, there had to be a good reason. Reluctantly, he says. “Ok. Fine. Don’t want to upset you. For now, can we agree that the lines of communication are open between us again?”


Regan nods. “Your on.”



Blake leans over to hug his friend. “Thank you, Regan.”



She embraces him back. “I should get back.”


They pull apart. He figures that Regan wanted to get back to celebrating a pretty successful night for Past, Present, Future. Hudson won. Regan won. Sienna retained the World Championship. No need to give her a reason to be upset. “Of course. Talk to you later.”


“Ditto.”


Regan and Blake fist bump. As she walks out of his luxury suit, Blake was more driven than ever to learn what Josh did to incite the fury of David Helms. The question he ask himself;  does he want to know? And if he found out exactly what Josh did, is he truly capable of remaining an idle party as he potentially watches the world burn around him...  


After the show was over, Blake went back to his hotel. He didn’t feel any great need to go to a club to celebrate his win. The first thing he did when he got back to the hotel was call his Fenmore.


“Good. You’re up.”



“Congratulations.”



“Thanks. I have a situation.”



“What’s on your mind?”



“I asked Regan why Josh Hudson and David came to blows at the Hall of Fame induction show. All she gave me was, she handled it in house. I’m of the belief that Josh did something. David Helms is as close to a boy scout as there is. Picking a fight with Hudson publicly? Doesn’t make sense. So I need to know what I should do. Should I contact the private investigator or let this go.”


Fenmore gave a long pause to properly digest the details of what Blake had asked him. “Need I remind you the last time you asked a private investigator to dig up dirt on someone you consider a friend, the backlash to that blew up more than you anticipated.”


“Josh Hudson isn’t my friend.”


“Regan is.”


There is a silence that fills the air as Blake reflects on what Fenmore reminded him of. His silence gives Fenmore permission to continue. “For all you know, sir, Regan could be tied to whatever transgressions Josh is involved in. Digging into your friends lives is not a recipe for trust.”


Blake nods. “True. What would you suggest?”


“Ask Rachel.”


Blake shakes his head. “Right... like she is going to sell out her husband to the guy who broke her heart.”


“Doesn’t hurt to try.”


Blake sits on the bed. Laying down, looking up at the ceiling. “Suppose your right. The worst thing Rachel can do is tell me to go to hell. Wouldn’t be the first time.”


“That’s the spirit.”


“Thanks Fen.”


“For what, sir?”


“Keeping me on an honest path.”


“Any chance I can convince you to stay away from Taylor Chase?”



Blake laughs. “No. Goodnight Fen.”   



Blake presses the button to end the call. Fenmore is right. Blake needed to ask Rachel if she knew anything. Easier said than done. The truth needed to come out. So much for staying out of other people's affairs...  





Los Angeles, CA.
09/11/2018


Blake didn’t head back to Boston after the Apocalypse pay per view. He instructed his pilot to head to California... Los Angeles to be exact.  He knew exactly what he wanted when he woke up the next morning. To see Taylor Chase. Naturally; he needed to be careful. He is still a man of infinite resources, he took every precaution necessary to ensure seeing Taylor would go as smoothly as it could be. He walks up to her front door. He gently knocks. Doesn’t take long for the door to swing open. Taylor Chase looks surprised to see him.



“Living life on the edge aren’t we?” Taylor smiles. “Scott could be here.”



Blake offers a smirk. “He isn’t.”



Taylor raises an eyebrow. “You’re that confident?”



Blake nods. “One thousand percent. I wouldn’t be here if I knew Scott was inside, call it the benefits of having connections. Can I come in?”



Taylor doesn’t waste time stepping to the side to let Blake in. “Of course.”



Blake follows Taylor Chase through the house. He scans the home as he follows Taylor to the backyard. “I would congratulate you on beating Marie Jones. Your victory was a forgone conclusion.


“She didn’t make it easy.”



Taylor shrugs her shoulders. “Only because you took it easy on her. It is what it is. You won. That’s what is important.”  Once they step out into the backyard, Blake is impressed by the size of her pool.  Taylor sits down on one of chairs. Crossing her toned legs, Taylor inquires. “Enough about that small fish in a big pond. What brings you to my home?”   



He chooses to remain standing. “There are no wrestling shows coming up. Kayla is going to spend time with her mother for awhile, so, that means my dance card is free. You don’t need to pack much. We can pick up whatever you want along the way. Mini vacation. What do you say? You and me; quality time.”



Taylor is a little thrown off by how forward Blake is. The last time they shared the same space together, there was an awkwardness between them. She was hoping Blake would summon up the gumption to eliminate Owen. Since that did not happen, the last time they saw each other was a little bitter sweet. The moment of shock has worn off. “Interesting.”



“Trust me, it will be. Fenmore made arrangements. We can leave tomorrow, it’ll give you a chance to tell Scott whatever story you need to tell him to keep him off the scent. You can be very persuasive.”



Taylor folds her arms. “Not persuasive enough.”



“Didn’t look like Regan played ball either.” Taylor doesn’t act shocked that Blake guessed right about her latest plan to rid Owen Cruze from the wrestling business. Blake stakes a seat next to her. “Regan was already keyed up. You figured all it would have taken was a little push to get the result you were looking for. Unfortunately for you, Regan can’t be bought or manipulated. I don’t blame you for trying.”



“I’m not going to stop.” Taylor insist.



“I know.” Blake casually says.



“You can’t convince me otherwise. Owen needs--”



Blake cuts her off. “Tay. I know.”


Blake places his hand on her knee. “Would I prefer you let this go? Sure. There has to be another way to resolve your differences with Owen. But... that’s between you and Owen. I’m not gonna tell you how to raise your kid. Not my place. As long as you know I don’t approve of your way of solving this, that’s enough.”


Blake pauses. Enough about Owen. This is about you and me... I miss you.”



Despite Taylor’s stoic demeanor, she can’t control blushing. “Blake--”


Blake runs his hand through Taylor’s hair. “The past seven weeks, I can’t get you out of my head. I’ve thought long and hard about this. There are cons. Those cons come in the form of what will other people think when they find out about us. I can see it now, people doubting my true intentions. Believing I wasn’t being honest with them the entire time. You don’t have the most PG friendly reputation. At the end of the day, reputation is what other people think. I only care about what I think.”



“What do you think about me?”



“Strong. Independant. A woman willing to go after what she wants. Dangerous. Headstrong. Stubborn. It's impossible not to admire a woman like that. There is only one Taylor Chase in the world. You only live once. Come with me. See where this adventure takes us. No promised. I have broken enough promises with the women in my life. Safe to say you’d kill me if I broke one to you.”



“Got that right.” Taylor smirks. “Blake... we have a connection. Always have. Maybe if you weren’t so hung up on my former best friend in the past, who knows. I still have my doubts.”



“I don’t blame you. I believe in our potential, roadblocks and all. One of them is knocked down. I told Katelyn.”


Hearing this does invoke Taylor to an eyebrow, not expecting Blake to be so open about their, whatever they have. “Kate wasn’t thrilled, naturally. She is not the person you think she is, Tay.  All Kate wants is my happiness. Not like she is in a position to judge, she is dating Abigail. Wish she’d go away...”


“Giving you trouble again?”


“In a roundabout way. Yes. That’s irrelevant.” Blake sighs. He grabs Tay’s hand. “I want you. Simple as that. You want me as well. I want to show you that we can work. Make arrangements. Settle your affairs. We both need to take a break from the world for a few days. Trust me, ok?”  




“I’m glad you came. Won’t hurt to get away for a couple days. Sure. Let me figure out what I am going to tell Scott.”  “I’m yours.”



“Pe--” Blake is so used to saying perfect, he has to stop himself knowing following through with the word would remind Taylor Chase of her former best friend. He takes a deep breath. “Great. That is exactly what I needed to hear. You won’t regret this.”


And with that, Blake feels more confident about the future, more than he has in along time.



<PROMO TIME>



The scene opens in the backseat of a limousine. Blake Mason, who is wearing a black three piece suit with a white shirt, red tie, is sitting comfortably on the drivers side of the limo. He looks charmingly into the camera.   


“I have a confession to make...”


He motions for the camera to zoom in closer. Now with a close up on Blake’s handsome features, he whispers his confessions to all who are watching.


“I hate not being in control, but you already knew that.”


Blake offers a knowing smirk. The camera zooms back out.

“Not being in control is scary, especially for me. Some people are wired that way, I guess. Ravyn, Abigail Lindsay, they thrive on chaos. Some of us, we thrive on order. Growing up in a rich family, you learn that chaos is not a sound business strategy. Throughout my career; I have gone too far to maintain what I felt was the established order. Fatal Fortunes is the one event you can’t plan for. Again, that’s scary, especially now, who knows what chaos has in store for me.”


“I can handle getting an opportunity for a championship... except if it is the United States Championship. Said it before, I’ll say it again. If I am put in a position where I have to wrestle Bree, I won’t do it. I’ll forfeit. There is all there is to that. The other championships? Awkward situation, I can handle it. Andrew Raynes. Still a friend of mine. Sienna? We were never close anyway, that wouldn’t be a problem. Josh Hudson? He was a hero of mine. These days, I can’t stand him. Held my tongue due to the professional alliance I had with Past, Present, Future. Don’t have to hold my tongue anymore, I would have zero remorse taking the Television Championship away from him this week if my number is called. Becoming a champion is what I’m here for. Now hesitation there.”           



“Fatal Fortunes could test my path to... redemption. I have no clue what half the locker room thinks about me nowadays. I don’t speak to a lot of people. I keep to myself, mainly. I show up, wrestle, do my job. Don’t cause trouble. I’m not a boy scout by any means. I can understand IF there are a few people in the locker room who still believe my shift in priorities is smoke and mirrors. Take Konrad for instance. He is a man who spoke out against me last year on more than one occasion. To my knowledge he hasn’t spoken about me lately, who knows, I don’t know him, I don’t know what he thinks, what is in his heart. For all I know, he may want to cash in on those threats from last year when I attacked Simon in his home.


“Bianca Evans. No clue what I did to her to cause her to hate me, maybe she is still bitter that she wasn’t given credit for Amy’s concussion, I don’t know. She is friends with my cousin, I allowed Bianca to live in my home for a time, you’d think that would inspire kindness. She turned on Katie. Who knows what is in the heart of Bianca Evans these days.”


“The list of people I could draw at Fatal Fortunes is endless. Like I said, I have no clue how people feel about me. It is one thing to face Owen Cruze, I saw that coming. Thirteen, I saw coming. Cassidy Carter... sorry, Marshal.. I saw coming. The control freak in me wants to plan for every infinite scenario, formulate a plan. And I could do that. I am gonna try my best not to worry to much. Trust me, that’s hard. I teamed with Brett Sinclair last year for crying out loud. We could have became contenders for the tag team titles. For all I know, I could draw an enemy for a tag partner this year, win a contenders match, face gosh knows who for the tag team titles. Hell, Owen Cruze could be my tag team partners for all I know. Imagine that, the son of Orlando Cruze and Blake Mason, your brand new SCW World Tag Team Champions. How is that for fate?”


Blake half smirks wondering if fate can be that ironic.


“I am NOT completely powerless. I can’t control who I’m facing. I can’t control what situation fate demands of me. But what I can control is my attitude. How I am going to approach Fatal Fortunes? I am taking whatever comes as my own personal  challenge. We can’t grow unless we tackle situations that makes us uncomfortable. Cage matches don’t faze me. Being chased by an angry mob doesn’t make the hair on the back of my neck stand up. Been there, done that. Not being in control of my fate is something I need to get used to very soon, I know, at some point, despite how good everything is going for me, career wise, there will come a situation like the one I had to face when I learned Chris Cannon was coming back to SCW. For obvious reason we know why that made me uncomfortable. The last time we competed... no need to rehash that. Naturally I was afraid. You would be too if you had done what I did, I came close to not resigning with SCW, I initially didn’t want to share the same ring with him again, who knows, maybe Fate will decide Blake Mason versus Chris Cannon happens over the course of the next two shows. Eventually I calmed down. Kelcey was right, I do owe Chris this. Whenever that match happens, I will face it like a man, not a coward.”  


“The Chris Cannon possibility aside, how will I react facing one of my former professional allies?”


“How will I respond to facing someone I was close to in the past, like Kennedy Street? Could I man up to face her considering our history?”


“There is a chance someone from EMERGE is called up? Could wrestle my own brother for all I know.”


“Either way, it is up to me to respond to what fate has in store for me. In the past I know how I would have responded. Doesn’t sound sexy to say this, during these next two shows, Fate gives me the chance to respond differently to a circumstance I may not like. I will respond with grace. Class. With enthusiasm. I will grow as a person. Yeah, doesn’t sound sexy talking about personal growth in a wrestling promo. You are not watching this to get a lesson in self talk.”


“Fortune favors the bold, in that spirit, Fatal Fortunes, bring it. We’ll see if I thank for you coming.”


Blake nods, signaling that he is done talking. With that, the scene fades to black. 

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  Fatal Fortune Special Episode! #4: History, as Written by the Victors
Posted by: Slayter - 09-23-2018, 04:51 PM - Forum: Breakdown || Sept 26 & Oct 3, 2018: Fatal Fortunes - No Replies

Episode 4
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History, as Written by the Victors


There’s nothing that’ll stop me. Nothing. At Fatal Fortunes, it doesn’t matter who it is… or where it is… or how long it takes, or what’s at stake, title or no, I am rising through this company because I remember what it feels like to be at the bottom. And I am never going to stay at the bottom ever again. Just watch me.

Her words echoed in her mind now after she’d said them following her match, as hype, as promotion, as truth. Slayter McKinney was proud of herself. Proud, but aching. She’d gone straight to the gym after Breakdown, after a hard fought contest against Konrad Raab. She hadn’t let the rush of a victory sink in. Instead, she pushed, she pushed with all her might to bring her body beyond the point it had just been. She ran drills, simulating positions she’d just been in against Raab, looking for ways to improve.

With Fatal Fortunes on the fast-approaching horizon, Slayter needed to drive faster, and further, and prepare herself for the next hill to climb, whatever it would be, and whomever it took the shape of.

But her body was begging her to stop. Every muscle burned and pleaded, forcing her off the canvas, urging her into a limp back to the locker room where she found some Tylenol and swallowed them.

Hello, firecracker.” His voice reverberated like a death knell against the locker room walls. She spun around, a shiver up her spine to see him -- startled at first to hear a male voice in the women’s locker room, her eyes only got wider upon seeing the father of her son leaning against the locker room doorway. 

What are you doing here, John?” She relaxed, going back to toweling off her matted hair from the shower, keeping one suspicious eye on him.

Can’t a man congratulate a woman in the ladies locker room after a hard-won victory?” He smirked. She didn’t. She stopped and stared at him icily, stopping that flirtatious tone dead where it stood. She’d heard this man’s material years ago.

What do you want?

John sighed, rubbed his nose, and folded his arms.

I saw your match. Very impressive.” His was a strong irish accent, he was in America where she was, and she could feel that familiar pit opening up inside her stomach, the pit immediately associated with this man and their time together. He hadn’t been a bad companion. They’d had fun. So what changed?

How’s Dylan?” John asked, looking down at the tiled floor. Slayter, moved things from her rented locker into her gym bag, her eyes steering clear of his.

Fine. He’s with Shannon.

Of course he is.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” She asked, stopping and glaring at him. John looked confused and interrogated.

I’m not here to cause problems for you, Slay.

Then why are you here? I’ve got some big things happening, and you just happen to show up? Awfully convenient. You want money? Someone to screw, is that it?

Yeah,” he began to bite back angrily, but stopped himself. Shifting weight from one leg to the other and softening his expression. “I came as a gesture of good faith. I’m not here to screw anything, including your career.”

Oh yeah?” She hissed, dumping deodorant into her bag with force.  

Yeah. Way I see it, you’re in good enough shape now you could snap me in two if I tried it.

She huffed and kept packing, holding the towel tight to her body, wishing she’d gotten dressed before this confrontation. She’d do it, too. Snap him in half. All she could think of at the sound of his voice was eight years she hadn’t spent doing what she loved.

I’m sorry that I haven’t had more time with Dylan.

Yeah, well--” she stopped herself and remembered their son for what felt like the first time in a few hours, immediately feeling guilty.

You don’t need to fight me all the time, you know that? Always fighting. Always looking for conflict. That’s why this didn’t work.

Excuse me? That’s not why this didn’t work,” she fought back and met his gaze. It stopped her from firing the proverbial artillery at him.

You’re always so combative. Everything’s a struggle, even when it’s not. We could work together on this. But you don’t seem to want that.”

That’s because you want everything to revolve around your schedule. On your time. Well not anymore.

That’s not true. I’ve always been willing to meet you halfway, Slay.” He retorted and stood up from the wall and felt ready to punch something. “It’s you who’s been making this difficult. If you’d just told me you didn’t want the kid in the first place--” He stopped himself from digging in any deeper.

And it was like time froze.

And there they stood, at eternal loggerheads.

There’s two sides to every tale.

You know that don’t you?

Even Hitler thought he was doing the right thing; that he was on the right side of history. One hopes that as the horrific machinations he’d set in motion began to unravel, that some shred of decent sense seeped in and he began to recognize the error of his ways, and the terror he’d needlessly unleashed. History’s worst villains saw themselves as heroes of their own stories. We all do. So much so the in-between. The daily struggles that fit neatly within the grey areas, in the unexamined lives walking past us on the street.

For a moment, staring into John’s blue eyes from across a gulf of four meters in the ladies locker room, Slayter could see outside herself, see backwards through linear time along the trajectory of their relationship and see the possibility that, as impossible as it seemed to her ego, she may have made some mistakes, John may have been right, she may have gotten things wrong, not seen herself or him clearly, as clearly as she could now in a second’s glance in hindsight.

She saw their naked bodies coming together that night after a successful wrestling match nearly nine years ago, and saw no hint of protest, no thought of the consequences of unprotected sex. The consequences that came as inevitable as death or taxes. Slayter could see his hand holding hers in a medical clinic as they heard the news. He’d been there, taken the day from work and bought her lunch after, and cradled her head in his hands as she cried in the passenger seat of his Honda Civic.

You’re sure about this?” He asked, pregnant himself with hope. She nodded, looking away.

I’ve wanted this my whole life,” he teared up, “It’s going to be great,” he gushed and he meant every word, looking her in the eyes and smiling. She smiled, too.

I’m so happy,” She lied, and flung headlong into 9 months of morning sickness and morning tears into her pillow, and postpartum depression that stretched past its due date, and slowly blamed him for putting her here, looking down into their year old baby’s eyes as the sound of a raucous wrestling crowd roared on the television nearby. She sniffled sharply and stared blankly into the crib before hurrying to shut the television off at the sound of John returning home.

I can get you a job at the market,” he said sincerely. “Wherever you want. I’ll make this work,” he said, reaching for her hands before she pulled them away. She could see him in a million instants trying with everything he could to make her comfortable with him, with their baby, with a settled life he was building.

She threw it back at him with fire, and thrown plates; fights that never needed to happen and words that should never have been spoken. All the things she’d said that danced around how she really felt but never explicitly stated because she was weak and cowardly and desperate to feel something other than resentment.

And then she was back in the locker room standing staring him down feeling like he’d just hit her with a finisher, or at least a set-up for a finisher.

Can I at least see him?” John asked, as sincerely as he’d ever been, and Slayter felt like she needed more tylenol.

Get the fuck out.” She hissed through her teeth, ready to throw something.

Slowly, like she’d wounded him worse than he’d wounded her, he backed out and closed the door gently behind him leaving her there with a towel wrapped around her body packing up her things, readying to head for Fatal Fortunes…
[Image: fist.png]
The hopefully familiar locker room setting before a match is where we find her, Slayter McKinney, seated on the bench, hands clasped in front of her, shoulder on her knees, considering the ground before her.

Oh the places you’ll go, Slayter McKinney,” she started to no one in particular.

Here I am readying for my… God who knows? Fatal Fortunes. The names will be drawn, and I won’t get to know who it is I’m facing, for what stakes, in what sort of match… it could be anything.” She exhaled sharply, considering the challenge approaching her. It could be anything. It could be nothing. It could be failure.

I’m approaching this night no differently than I’ve approached all the others. There’s no match more important than the next one, no matter what it is.” Slowly, her eyes moved to lock on the camera lens. Her words coming out as a slow, methodical trickle.

I’ll fight any and all of you. Together. Individually. I’ll fight you in a match no one sees, or in the main event with all eyes on the ring; on the competitors; on the outcome. My purpose hasn’t changed since I arrived in SCW, and it won’t change at Fatal Fortunes regardless of how I walk away from the ring. On a stretcher. Or with my head held high holding a title belt.

I’ve been here for four matches. I have come here to wrestle, because that’s my life, my purpose, my reason for breathing. Each of you, whoever you are that stands across from me will lock up with a woman hellbent and dead-set being better than I was yesterday, on being the one who’s standing on the other side of that ring bell. Nothing will ever change that.

So who do I prepare for? Alexis Quinne? Another tussle with Konrad Raab? It doesn’t matter. I’ve prepared for anything. All options are before me, and I’m ready to leap through whatever door opens, no matter how big or small the opportunity, or what’s standing to greet me when I leap.

What I have to aid me are my wits, and all that’s gotten me to this point. My fists, my feet, my ever-expanding repertoire of moves, and my mind.

That’s the important one. With my mind I have set myself against every obstacle yet placed against me in SCW, and at Fatal Fortunes I will do that once more.

Her head bows silently in thoughtful contemplation.

Oh the places, you’ll go, Slayter McKinney. I can only hope whoever draws me as their opponent is as prepared for the unexpected as I am.

She once more glances into the camera.

I’ve been preparing for this night and every night I am blessed to be able to compete my entire life.

I refuse to waste these opportunities.

Come what may… I’m ready.” And slowly her gaze lowers once more.

Fade.

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