1 . 3 . 2009

Words of Congratulations and Advice

The crowd grew larger and larger as all of the guests arrived at the Post-Awards gathering, and with each entrance came the flashes of cameras, the glow of cell phones taking pictures – it felt like a rather celebrity-styled affair, which is exactly the kind of event that The Outlaw felt least comfortable. He had spoken truthfully in accepting his "Most Loved" award, that he didn’t see himself as some kind of hero or larger than life figure, so to be receiving all of this attention out of the ring made him uneasy. He knew he would need to slip away later in the evening, but before he could, there was someone he needed to have a quick word with since he hadn’t had a chance to talk with him before the event. The Outlaw quickly scans the room, and after a few moments, he spots Crazy Boy finishing a conversation with RAGE of Domination, and as Crazy Boy finishes he makes his move, approaching Tyrone with hand extended, clasping CB’s hand in a handshake, he speaks.

The Outlaw: CB, man, I didn’t get to tell you this last show since I was getting patched up, but man I’m really proud of you for coming through when it was all on the line in the 8 man match. You showed some serious guts and I think you really opened a few more eyes. Then again, you already have opened some. Runner-Up is NO shame given the competition in this fed.

Crazy Boy nods his head, a warm smile appearing on his face. He scans the room quickly and sees a couple of people snapping some pictures of Greyson and Tyrone as he turns around to his best friend.

Crazy Boy: Thanks. I think that 2008 was one of my best years I have ever had in my professional wrestling career. I didn't get any gold around my waist, but I think that I got the whole locker room at attention. At the SuperCard last week, when I saw Marcus Marion beat you down like he did, something clicked inside of me. It was like all I wanted to do was to see the Diabolik crumble and I poured every single ounce of my being out to face Crash. And let me tell you, that was not easy. Crash being a former world Champion and one of the slickest fellows in Legacy, I knew I had to be at 200 percent to be able to beat him. But with my adrenaline pumping and my focus set, I did the improbable. I beat him. Sometimes, I even surprise myself, Greyson.

The Outlaw gives a bit of a smile, and nods, seeing CB's enthusiasm.

The Outlaw: Well, at least something good came out of Marion's interference. Nothing good tends to come from that jack ass being around, and believe me since there is a no violence policy I will not be within striking distance or even earshot of him. Now speaking of enemies, I'm sure Crash is going to be looking for some payback, and I'm not sure if he's going to have anything to say to you tonight, but next Strife just be on the look out - I know from personal experience he's not at all above a sneak attack. Just keep aware, and be prepared if you have to repeat that performance you had last Strife.

Crazy Boy: Believe me, I am prepared for anything Crash and the Diabolik can throw at me. I got through them once, and I can do it again. Crash can do whatever he wants, but it's not going to do any good. All I have to say is Bring it On.

The Outlaw: Well good luck CB, and I'm sure I'll see you around later, but I'm going to head off and grab a beer. Just remember - stay aware and prepared.

The VIP Area of Solitude

In the far right of the post part we see a large corner roped off with Velvet ropes. At the entrance of the "roped off" area we see the two large men of Anarchy. Each one wearing an extremely snazzy tuxedo. Sleek black sunglasses complete with their secret service ear pieces. Inside the roped off area we see Loco Martinez in silver dress suit, navy blue silk shirt, and silver tie. He is flanked by three gorgeous women. Sitting on a couch in the back of this, makeshift VIP lounge we see the trophy case with a spotlight shining on the Legacy World Title. Sitting on a couch next to the five foot tall, glimmering trophy case is John Thomas who is kept company with another bevy of beautiful women. Two attractive girls show up each one saying hi to T.Rex and Arch Angel, they trace a finger down each man's chest. Rex smiles, and opens the velvet rope and the two women stroll in. Angel turns to Rex.

Arch Angel: Man... I love this job.

T.Rex: This is way better than bouncing at "Mike's".

Arch Angel: No doubt.

They exchange a pound. They go back to their positions, as we see the members of Domination along with Trent Logan walk up to the bar. Ben Murdock looks at the "VIP" section and just shakes his head and rolls his eyes in disbelief. He elbows Steve O'Reily. O'Reily looks and just shakes his head. Arch Angel takes of his sunglasses, a hard glare directed at the men of Domination.

Arch Angel: You see something funny, here boys? Or you just jealous you're not in the VIP lounge?

Trent looks at VENOM and RAGE as Arch Angel calls out to Domination, and he speaks.

Trent Logan: Hey, go do what you gotta do – I'll order the drinks, but remember there's a no violence policy here tonight okay?

RAGE and VENOM begrudgingly accept the "No Violence" portion of Trent's advice, and walk over towards the tuxedo clad bouncers.

RAGE: Us? The LEGACY Tag Team Champions – the Tag Team of the Year - Jealous? Jealous of whom Anarchy? Jealous of this circus of jackasses with the two big clowns out front?

Rage shakes his head.

RAGE: No way.

VENOM: Look at yourselves! Sure you're old, but you almost used to be kind of cool in that "grandpa" kind of way with your lame jokes, but these bullshit sneak attacks and handicapped matches? What the hell happened guys? You're acting like you're as insecure and pathetic and your "boss" in there.

RAGE shakes his head, and then speaks without a hint of mocking or joking in his voice.

RAGE: The thing is guys, we don't see anything funny – just something really, really sad.

T.Rex bristles and also takes off his sunglasses eying the men from Domination up from head to toe. He scoffs and elbows his partner.

T.Rex: Look at the young bucks getting their panties all wadded up. Because despite their titles, and their little accolade, THEY ain't the team everyone's talkin' bout.

He points to Arch Angel.

T.Rex: We are.

Arch Angel: And just be lucky we were enlisted to "right the wrong" that was the World Title situation, and haven't been working on "righting the wrong" that is the Tag Title situation.... but all in due time, fellas. After all? We are in that contenders match. Legacy is finally starting to see that, despite our AGE? We are a force in Legacy. You two remember that, when you're tossin' round yer little insults. You want proof? Go ask the former world champ. Ask that runty nerd.

T.Rex: And not, if, but WHEN we get you's two in the ring? Fuggin' fuggedaboutit. The Cirque du MoFo's gonna be rolling with even more gold.

RAGE looks to VENOM and shakes his head.

RAGE: You're right - you geriatric jerks do have a contenders match coming up and after how you've acted the last few weeks, and how you've acted here tonight? I wish you all the luck in the world in the contest.

VENOM taps RAGE on the shoulder.

VENOM: Look man, this is just a lot of talk.

VENOM looks over to Anarchy.

VENOM: A hell of a lot of talk. The LEGACY Tag Division is about action. We're about action. If there's a point to be made, it won't be made until we all step into the ring, and until that happens I'm not about to waste anymore time talking. Let's get back to the party.

With that RAGE turns with VENOM to leave the "roped boundary" and head back to the bar. The men from Anarchy share a cocky chuckle. T.Rex talking very robotically mimicking the departing champs.

T.Rex: We... are... about... action... We... are... black.. hole.... of... interest...

The men share a chuckle as Loco comes up with a bottle of champagne in his hand. He throws his arms around the two men. He nods to the departing Anarchy.

Loco Martinez: What did Legacy's second best tag team want? They want some part time work?

Arch Angel: I think they were hoping charisma was contagious...

The three men pause briefly before roaring with laughter. We cut away from the scene.

Introductions

The clatter of the preshow. Nathan was hesitant about taking his wife and son Stephen, only 5 years old. Nathan is clad in black suit with crimson tie and matching crimson boots. His wife Raylene is in a sparkling purple dress with matching heels, and little Stephen is in a suit almost exactly like his dad, save his shoes are black. The trio make their way through the crowds of reporters and fellow LEGACY superstars. Nathan stops for a moment, looking for a spot by the bar to get himself a drink, along with his family, when little Stephen tugs on his father's pantleg.

Stephen:"Daddy Daddy, who's that man over there?"

Raylene:"What man dear?"

Stephen:"Mom, he's right over there, in white."

Nathan scans the crowd and finally sees what his son has been staring at. In the corner, enjoying a drink, stands Issac Entragian. Nathan glares at first, but his wife grips his hand tight, as if to say "Not tonight, in front of the child."

Fallen Angel:"Your father knows him. Do you want to go meet him?"

Stephen:"Could we dad? That would be cool!"

Nathan smiles down at his son, Raylene looks a bit concerned.

Raylene:"Are you sure? He doesn't look like he wants to be bothered."

Fallen Angel: "Perfect timing then."

Nathan smirks and takes his wife's hand, as they all work their way through the crowd, some people taking a moment to look at the cute little boy in the suit, Stephen blushing a bit, as they finally make their way over to the corner of the room where Issac stands.

The albino sees the family approaching, his eyes growing soft with his attempt to replicate “friendliness”. He hands off his glass of red wine to Elizabeth, and kneels down, his gigantic form looking like a crouching gargoyle.

Entragian: “Pleasure to meet you, little fella. My name is Issac. Why don’t you introduce me to your daddy?”

Entragian extends one of his massive pale hands, shaking gingerly with the little boy, and smiling with his mouth closed to hide his sharpened teeth.

Stephen: "Well name is Stephen, and this is my dad, people call him Fallen Angel. Oh and that's my mom, her name is Raylene."

Fallen Angel: "Nathan Kelser. Nice to finally meet you Issac."

Entragian rises to a standing position, making direct eye contact with Fallen Angel. His pale hand extends once more, and he grants Fallen Angle a forceful handshake. Issac turns to Elizabeth, motioning with one hand to Raylene and little Stephen.

Entragian: "Elizabeth, why don't you show Raylene and little Stephen around the party, I think Mr. Kelser and I may have much to discuss."

Elizabeth nods, smiling at Raylene and beginning to walk off into the party atmosphere, making small talk with Nathan's wife and fawning over the cute little boy in his suit. Once Issac & Nathan are alone, Issac's mood changes, some of that faux kindness simply evaporating.

Entragian: "I was hoping I'd get a chance to talk to you, Nathan. I've heard a great deal about you. Mostly from the tainted lips of Damien Black, he makes mention of you QUITE often."

Nathan's eyes become narrow with the name of Damien Black, as if searching for him at that moment.

Fallen Angel: "Well, unless it includes his utter fear of me, I suggest you follow the source and not the pitiful supposed messenger. Heard about me, you say? Well, I haven't met anyone around here who hasn't heard of you."

Issac grins, a little chuckle escaping his lips.

Entragian: Oh yes, my infamous reputation precedes me, call it a gift, maybe a curse. And don't fret Nathan, whenever Damien starts bragging about how he poured drano down your throat I have a strong urge to crucify the bastard. He is a rotten egg that's been allowed to exist for FAR too long, you describe him well, pitiful is a fitting title. Seems we share a common enemy, wouldn't you say?"

Fallen Angel: "Damien Black is but a trophy to you Issac, another accolade on your ever growing list. Perhaps we share a common enemy, but my hatred for him digs deeper than yours does. I try not to think about the past, because when I think about the past, I get caught up in the angelic smile of my daughter. Damien Black owes you nothing, but in my world, he is in major debt for stealing my peace."

Entragian's eyes burn, and he inches a little closer to Fallen Angel, his white hair hanging about his face.

Entragian: "Ah, I understand you're passionate about the matter, Nathan. What Black has done to you is unforgivable, and I'm certain that in time you'll show him the error of his ways. But in the here and NOW, Black is my target, and you are wrong, he does owe me. He owes me BLOOD, he owes me a pound of flesh. And I always collect on my debts. But once he and I are finished, I urge you to do with him as you please, because in this world every man and monster must be held accountable for their past actions. That's just my personal opinion. And if you find yourself in need of an ally in these uncertain times, just be aware that it's good to have powerful friends in LEGACY. Maybe something to consider..."

Issac grins, staring into Nathan's eyes, and then he notices that Elizabeth has returned with Raylene and little Stephen. Entragian offers Nathan a nod, interlocking his arm with Elizabeth's arm.

Entragian: "It was lovely meeting you, and I hope you fine folks enjoy the party."

Entragian ruffles Stephen's hair, smiling at him, before wading back into the crowd with Elizabeth. But not before granting Nathan a very sly parting wink.

Who to Watch in 2009

Herb Moxley is walking beside Jen X, heading to the dance floor. Herb is now wearing a sports jacket over his 'traditional' hawaiin shirt, while Jen X has her hair dolled up quite nicely as she glides in a black silk evening gown. Jen finds her self latching on to Herb's arm as they approach...

Standing off to the side, Mirage is in the middle of telling some sort of animated story to Osamu and Lucien, who are both leaning against the wall, their arms folded across their chests. Osamu leans forward and lightly backhands Mirage on the chest, getting his attention, he then nods toward Herb Moxley and Jen X. Turning around, Mirage smirks as he immediately notices how Herb Moxley is dressed.

Mirage: If it ain't the funny man...

After making his snarky comment, Mirage glances at Jen X, looking her up and down for a moment before looking back to Moxley.

Jen squirms under Mirage's glance, she tries to make eye contact with him to save face but she falls prey to intimidation and turns her eyes to Moxley - who on the other hand appears unfazed by the agents of destiny and only smiles.

Moxley: Hey look pookums - its the cupcakes of destiny! Having a good time tonight, fellas?

Lucien immediately steps forward as a low growl emerges from the depths of his throat, only Mirage lifts his hand in front of Lucien, stopping him. Mirage looks to Lucien.

Mirage: It's ok...

Looking back to Moxley, Mirage continues.

Mirage: You purposefully trying to get yourself hurt or what, Mox? You see anyone else laughin' here?

Herbert reflexively takes a quick step forward to block Jen from Lucien, as she lets out a soft squeak of alarm.

Moxley: Get myself hurt? Please, I'd have an easier time with these chumps then I did with the cupcakes.

Lucien grunts again, his blood boiling as he takes another step forward. Mirage again raises his hand patiently, stopping the attack, as Jen X looks extremely nervous.

Jen X: Herb- Stop- Let's just...go.

Moxley: In a moment sweetie. I just figured since we bumped into these...gentlemen...I'd let them know that I saw their little, "e-mail of evil".

Herb turns his head from Jen and looks Mirage in the eyes.

Moxley: Here to destroy Legacy for "the fun of it"? Not on my watch.

Mirage smiles, nodding his head.

Mirage: That's great! I like that! I gotta say, I had you figured all wrong...you got some balls. Three on one, yet you don't even blink. Damn, that's impressive. Stupid...but impressive.

Bobbing his head, Mirage looks over each shoulder at Lucien and Osamu before turning back toward Moxley.

Mirage: But you got it all wrong...it ain't about destroying Legacy for the fun of it, that's merely a potential side effect of doing things our way. OUR way. We all want somethin' around here, that's what we do, and we sure as hell don't do this for the f<beep> of it. I say do what you must and let the chips fall where they may. I mean, look at you...you like being laughed at?! Cuz that's what they use you for here...laughs. Comedy hour with Herbert Moxley...don't miss next weeks episode, right?! Right?! Wrong. They used to treat Lucien like some kinda side show circus freak around here, they don't do that anymore. Osamu...who?! Needless to say, people know who Osamu is now. Lemme ask you something...wouldn't you like to step up someday and tell em' you don't feel like laughin' no more?! Cuz right now, you don't seem so funny, it's a side of you I didn't even know existed...but I like it. You two ain't no different than us, Mox...no different.

Mirage pauses and looks directly at Jen X.

Mirage: Lady Macbeth said it best...and correct me if I'm wrong, but do the words, "If you're gonna do this thing -- and drag me along with you -- then let's get it done right", sound very familiar?

Both Herb and Jen X now look at Mirage strangely as if surprised at the change in demeanor here.

Moxley: Wait...you want me to become an Agent of Destiny?

Mirage shrugs as if to say, "Why not?"

Moxley: Hmph. I've never felt so popular in my life. First an offer to join Loco's circus, and now this - whats next, the Entourage? Please, It's not going to happen, Gepetto. I don't like the way you operate. And besides, unlike Igor and Frankenstein over there, I don't need to rely on some one like you to make my mark in this business.

Mirage smirks, but continues speaking. His words seem somewhat disconnected, as if his thoughts drifted elsewhere for a moment.

Mirage: Have it your way then...remain a joke in Legacy.

Mirage looks back at Moxley.

Mirage: Oh, can't wait till' Thursday.

Moxley: You got it. And hey, be sure to watch me in 2009, because I'll be watching you.

As the scene fades we see Lucien and Osamu stare down Moxley with eyes of fire. Moxley, in turn, is grimacing at Marcus Mirage with absolute distrust. As Herb and Jen walk towards the dance floor she clutches herself to his arm very closely. Marcus enjoys one last look at the valet as she heads off.

The Runner-Up

The scene fades into the back. Ethan Leers stares into the camera, holding up a certificate, a big fake smile on his face and a thumbs up.

Ethan Leers: Know what this sh*t is?

Ethan Leers loses the grin. He digs around in his pocket and pulls out a lighter.

Ethan Leers: Congrats Ethan! You’re the runner f*cking up for Who To F*cking Watch In 2009? You know what this means?

Ethan Leers flicks the lighter, creating a flame.

Ethan Leers: It means jack sh*t.

Ethan Leers holds the flame to the paper and sets it on fire. He then drops it to the ground.

Ethan Leers: Well, I shouldn’t just leave it to burn. That might be dangerous.

Ethan Leers proceeds to unzip his pants, and a blur is formed where Ethan’s private parts would be. The blur falls down to the paper, as it is made clear by the sound that Ethan is peeing on the paper.

Ethan Leers: Happy f*cking New Year LEGACY.

VIP Relations

Seated on an ultra-plush leather sofa, John Thomas and Loco Martinez are each reclining, each with an ottoman underneath their legs. John Thomas, who is wearing his white suit, the jacket at his side and his navy blue silk shirt unbuttoned two or three buttons, is in mid-sentence as we join them.

John Thomas: So the whole movie, they just keep playing tricks on one another back and forth and screwing each other up and each trying to get into the pants of Scarlett Johansson.

Loco Martinez: Well, who wouldn't? To get a crack at THAT crack? Man I might give the keys to the old Trophy Case.

John Thomas: Too bad she's now married to that guy... I can't remember his name... he was in Van Wilder... he was engaged to Alanis Morrisette for a while... he was in Blade Trinity...

Trying to think of the name, John lifts his reddish orange cocktail up and takes a big long sip.

Loco Martinez: Ryan Reynolds... ugh... toolbox. You ever see "Waiting"? Horrible movie. No story. And Ryan Reynolds AND Dane Cook in the same movie. You don't NEED those two guys in there. They're the same awful actor.

John shrugs, then takes another sip of his cocktail.

John Thomas: I guess so, but that Dane Cook is one lucky f*ck. You see how he got to bang Jessica Alba in that one movie?! Insanity…

Loco Martinez: Huh... Yeah. Whatever man. She hung out under our Big Top she'd be a Cirque-Jerker.

John’s eyes get wide.

John Thomas: That’s what YOU think! I’m sorry buddy, but there’s no way that Alba would play in anyone’s tent than mine! In fact, I’m doing my best to get on Jay Leno sometime soon, and if I time it just right, maybe he’ll have Ms Alba on as the second guest and I can make those dreams of hers become reality. You know she tunes into STRIFE, right?

Loco Martinez: Man... don't you think Anastasia would be pissed? I mean, ONE of us is single.

John waves off Loco’s concern.

John Thomas: Ani’s great and all, but she’s no Jessica Alba. And besides, she and I, we’re not exclusive…

John lets out a chuckle as Loco mutters.

Loco Martinez: Says YOU…

John Thomas: Actually… she’s not hangin’ out with any other dudes, so I guess in a way that makes her exclusively mine, but I’ve always told her that if I want to hang out with some other chick, she shouldn’t get jealous…

John’s attention is drawn off into the distaince, and he starts waving his hand, beckoning someone.

John Thomas: Hey Double A!!

The camera moves so now we see Arch Angel, who turns around from his security post and looks at John.

Arch Angel: What's up JT?

John waves his arm to the side and signals for Arch Angel to move aside. We then see two hot twenty-somethings standing there, one in a scoop-neck black dress, the other in a strapless white dress. John gets a huge grin on his face as he signals them to come sit on the couch.

John Thomas: Well hello, ladies, how are we doing tonight?

They giggle and then join John and Loco on the couch, sitting in between the two competitors.

Both Ladies: Gooooood!

John Thomas: Niiiiiiice!

Loco Martinez: Welcome to the most exclusive area this party has to offer. We here at Loco Martinez Enterprises go out of our way to make sure every and all fans are taken care of in the most personal, and hands on manner possible. So if you need ANYTHING…

Loco smiles huge and extends his arms welcomingly.

Loco Martinez: …all you need to do is ask.

The girl in white gets a glimmer in her eyes and smiles.

Girl in White: Oh I can think of a few things…

Loco leans back, looks behind the ladies over at John and reaches out, John following suit, and the two exchange a silent pound, keeping their arms extended to put them around the shoulders of their nearby ladies.

Standing at the Crossroads

Even though he had reached out more and more to members of the LEGACY locker room in a mentoring capacity to Crazy Boy and the members of Domination, The Outlaw was still a loner at heart. Although he felt at home in the ring in front of thousands in an arena, and millions watching around the world, after spending a few hours cooped up with his greatest competition and his greatest enemies, he needed a few moments alone to compose himself and calm his desire to lash out and break each and every one of them in two – and after what had happened on the last edition of Strife, Marcus Marion would be the first one to be torn asunder. The Outlaw splashes some water on his face, and picks his beer off of the sink, and exits the restroom and back out into the main party. However, instead of just walking into the fray, he stands more towards the corner, near some of the shadows of the room, and that is when he hears an all too familiar and evil voice.

Entragian walks up to Blade, he’s by himself, Elizabeth having gone to get a drink. Issac smiles at his old adversary, adjusting his black tie and leaning up against the wall next to Greyson, scoping out the scene.

The Ivory Terror: What are you doing over here, all by your lonesome? Somehow I knew you’d be the antisocial type, Greyson. So I figured I’d bring my good company to YOU.

Issac lips form a small smirk, as Blade looks away, and takes a long drink of his beer.

The Outlaw: I see you are making the most of the “No Violence” policy.

Entragian give a bit of a laugh at Blade’s insinuation.

The Ivory Terror: Why of course I am Greyson – it is a perfect time to “catch up” without fear of a random Killshot or other means of retaliation. Although I will let you in on a little secret, I wouldn’t be exceptionally worried about you tonight even without the policy.

The Outlaw turns his head, his jaw clenching at seeming condescension in his remark, and he glares at Issac, who seeing Blade’s growing anger backs off just a bit.

The Ivory Terror: Now, Greyson, it’s not that I’m not convinced of your abilities as our Feud of the Year award can attest, but its more so the fact that while our paths as you said our destined to cross once again, and I look forward to that day – for the short term, our interests are quite divergent. Of course I now have the chance to do battle with Damien Black once more for the No Limits Title, but you seem to have a date with a blonde.

Issac smiles and winks with his last comment and The Outlaw, although not exploding upon the mention of Marion, seems undeniably anxious.

The Outlaw: I’m just biding my time Issac. I’m just biding my time. Just like you are with Del Carver. Although being a man of action, I didn’t think you had the “voyeur” tendencies.

The Ivory Terror: Like I said Greyson, my immediate future is Damien Black so I can ill afford to pay him little heed in spite of how our first encounter ended – so while your Outlaw predecessor has caught my eye, when it comes to Carver, just be satisfied in knowing that I AM watching him. I’m watching him very closely, you could even say I have a vested interest in that old bastard. Soon enough, you'll see just how interested I really am ...

Issac is caught up just for a moment thinking about Del, but quickly turns his attention back to Greyson.

The Ivory Terror: Although, Greyson, speaking of vested interests, I just thought you might like to know that the man who decided to scramble your brains at Strife is indeed here tonight, and in fact, he seems to be in top form. I saw The Blonde just a few minutes before I struck up this conversation with you. I don’t think Liz cares much for Nicole or for Marion, but it was quite attention gripping to see him work a room. It was like a prom king on ecstacy, almost as if he was celebrating the fact that he was back and there was nothing you could do about it – especially tonight.

Entragian watches Blade’s face, his teeth grinding as he took another drink of his beer.

The Ivory Terror: It really is too bad about that “policy” isn’t it? I’ve got this funny little feeling that you wouldn’t mind walking into that crowd and ripping him limb from limb this very second. See, I know you, I'm right aren't I?

Issac watch as The Outlaw clenches his fist, including the one holding the beer, and Issac is quite content with himself as he watches the glass shatter in The Outlaw’s grasp. Blade, upon realizing what he’d done, looks disgusted with himself, and then looks up at Entragian.

The Outlaw: I don’t know what you are looking for here Issac other than some sick kind of amusement – I want to watch Marion burn. Yes he fell from grace in LEGACY. Yes his life fell apart and he was left with nothing –but it was his own poor choices, it was his own contractual dealings, and it was a cherry picking from Justin Moreno. It wasn’t by my hand Issac, and as much as that piece of shit wants a shot at me, you have no idea how badly I want revenge on that coward. For as much as he’s experienced, for as much as he may have learned, he is still a coward – and that is what eats me alive when it comes to Marion.

The Ivory Terror: Well, at least with me you knew what you were getting, and every time we stepped into the ring, you were going to get a true fight – and I expected nothing less from you as I would expect nothing less from Damien or Cronos, or at some juncture Del Carver. So, given the situation I can in some way “sympathize” with you on the Marion issue – I’m sure dealing with an opponent who has the midset of a cowardly jackal can be exceptionally “frustrating”.

The Outlaw looks over and up to Entragian with just a bit of a chuckle.

The Outlaw: You know I didn’t think you would have any measure of “sympathy” in you, but I guess after you compete with the warriors of the No Limits division there is a standard of battle, a code by which we expect to be followed for greatness. Marion follows no code but his own – but this time I’m not giving him the chance to string me along. This time I will not wait to finish this. Tonight Marion is saved, but after that he’s mine.

The intensity in Blade’s voice speaks to his determination on the matter, and he looks over into the shadows where Liz is watching them.

The Outlaw: I think I’m going to have to kick this up to whiskey for the rest of the night, so I’m going to go to the bar, and from the looks of it, Liz wants your attentions. It’s been “fun” Issac, but if you are looking for real entertainment – just watch what I do to Marion when I get the chance.

The Outlaw takes his leave as Issac watches him go with a cruel smile, sort of enjoying the thought of the bodily harm Blade just may unleash, as Liz walks over and caresses Issac’s arm. Issac looks down at Liz, a playful smirk on his face. He raises a little half salute to Greyson as walks off.

The Ivory Terror: Toodles, Bladester. And don't worry, I'll watch, and I'm sure I'll enjoy the show!

A Second Chance at a
First Impression

In a corner of the bar, just past the antique-looking pool table, Ben Jackson looks at his Corona Light as if it held the mysteries of the universe. After taking it to his lips and draining a few ounces down his throat, Benny looks around the room at the rest of the people standing around talking. He's seen most of them before, knows their names, but none of them know him. He wants to change it, but every time he considers trying to make more friends, he just can't find a way to connect.. There is one person who he's started to connect with, but he wants more friends than just the backstage reporter who is currently walking up to his table, sitting down across from him.

Andrew Kelley: Hey Benny Boy! Heck of an awards show, wasn't it?

Running his finger over part of the bottle rim, Benny just shrugs his shoulders and takes another drink. His head falls backwards and he looks up at the ceiling.

Ben Jackson: Sure, yeah, I guess it was.

Andrew Kelley: Did you keep track of how many winners and runner ups you had voted for? I did it last year, and this year I made it into a contest with some of the other backies - that's what I call the rest of us non-wrestlers. Backies. I was thinking maybe you could be involved, but some of the other guys didn't think it was a good idea.

Benny pulls his head back into place and looks at Andrew Kelley.

Ben Jackson: Yeah, I guess. Hey, have you seen Del Carver?

Andrew's eyes light up.

Andrew Kelley: Diamond Del? Not for a few minutes. I think he was talking to someone out there in the hallway somewhere. You're not thinking of challenging him, are you?

Benny shakes his head and then lightly taps the beer bottle on the table, lightly enough that it makes no sounds.

Ben Jackson: No, no nothing like that. I just...

Benny notices as Laura Seton walks into the room, walking past the tables and making her way straight up to the bar. Andrew Kelley notices Benny's sight-line and looks over, sees who Benny is looking at, and then looks back.

Andrew Kelley: Go talk to her.

Benny slowly starts nodding his head, then gets up out of his chair and puts his bottle down. After taking a step towards the bar, Benny turns around, picks up the beer bottle, takes a huge drink and then puts the mostly empty bottle back on the table and looks at Andrew.

Ben Jackson: Pretend this is yours for a bit, will ya? And if I don't come back, just leave it or throw it out.

Benny turns around and heads over to the bar, walking right up next to Laura, who's looking a bit more casual than most of the roster, wearing a lime-green Minnesota Lynx t-shirt featuring the Lynx logo, black slacks and black low-heeled shoes, her hair styled into a ponytail with the end of the ponytail tucked under itself. Looking at her, he then looks for the bartender, who whizzes past them. Benny raises a couple fingers, trying to get the bartender's attention, but fails in the first pass.

Ben Jackson: I hate bartenders. So hard to track down. You don't have any trouble with that,do you?

Benny waits for Laura to respond, and suddenly she turns her head, realizing Benny is talking to her.

Laura Seton: OH! Was that to me? What did you say?

Ben Jackson: Bartenders. Hate 'em. Can't stand 'em.

Benny spots something out of the corner of his eye and turns to find a male bartender standing there, having heard every word. Benny backtracks quickly.

Ben Jackson: They're just so cool, how can anybody stand it?! I tried to get a job bartending once, but they wanted me to get a haircut and get a gym membership, ditch my pager for a cell phone, but I just couldn't do it. Can I buy you a drink? Wine? Beer? Margarita?

Laura shakes her head as the bartender gives her his attention.

Bartender: What can I get for the gold medalist?

Laura Seton: Pepsi?

Bartender: Just ran out, more on the way. Do have plenty of Coke though (the angle changes to show numerous full, opened bottles of "the other beverage" before going back)—I can get you that...

Laura Seton: Can't drink that; sorry. Ummm—I don't know, cranberry juice?

Bartender: You bet!

He gets out a glass and pours it full and hands it over to her.

Benny seems impressed and tries to show it.

Ben Jackson: Cranberry juice?

Laura Seton: I don't drink alcohol. Never have, never will.

Ben Jackson: That's some real dedication. I know some girls back home who can't go more than a day or two without having a drink.

Laura Seton: Sounds like an addiction.

Benny looks slightly embarrassed.

Ben Jackson: I think it's just because it's cold in Colorado.

Laura Seton: Because Wisconsin's not cold?

Ben Jackson: I... don't know.

Laura nods and sips her drink.

Ben Jackson: Did you have a good New Years? Mine was okay, I didn't go anywhere fun, but I hooked up my camera to my computer and I was able to celebrate with some friends back home over the internet. Not quite the same thing, but it was nice to see them.

Laura Seton: That's too bad. You should always be able to be with the family during then...that's the best part of the holidays; for me anyways. No one should ever have to be alone during that time of year.

She heads over to a couple of open chairs with a small coffee table separating them and takes a seat in one of them. She puts her glass down on the table and looks to her right, seeing Benny still standing there.

Laura Seton: You want to sit?

She motions with her right hand towards the empty seat. Benny is surprised, but he runs over, realizes he's being too anxious, slows down to a stop, then sits down in a non-chalant way.

Ben Jackson: Uh... sure. So... Chris Turner, he's a fun guy, right?

Laura leans her head back for a second to think.

Laura: He WAS a nice guy. Way back in the day. I don't know, you know? (she gives a smile to Benny as she reaches for her drink and takes a sip) It's still there, I know it is. It has to be. I just don't know how to get it out of him. Guess we'll have to wait and see, huh?

Ben Jackson: You two are in that five-way tag match together, that sounds fun.

She nods politely and has another sip before putting the juice on the table again.

Laura: Ha...yeah, "fun" is a good way to put that. Be a great test for me in numerous ways. About time I got real, actual action in the ring. (quickly realizing whom she's talking to, she tries backtracking a bit) Oh...no offense to you of course! At least you took it to me and weren't afraid of hitting a woman. I liked that. Just like your buddy Garvin. What's the deal with you and him anyways? And how's he doing after his loss...(gives a cocky smile)

Benny puts up his hands in a playful surrender.

Ben Jackson: I don’t even try to keep up with what he’s doing. It’s probably better that way, helps me sleep at night.

Laura: How can you sleep at night with a friend as creepy as that guy?

Benny leans forward and lowers his voice.

Ben Jackson: I’m not actually too close to him. He calls me a friend, but really, it’s not like what you see in typical friendships.

Laura: Then exactly how is it?

Benny sighs.

Ben Jackson: It’s complicated. He and I, we’ve got some history together, and I don’t think it would be a smart move for me to tell him I’m not his friend anymore.

Laura: I don’t understand. It seems sort of simple to me. If you don’t like the guy, tell him to leave you alone.

Benny considers what Laura just said, thinks for a moment about how to respond, and then runs his fingers through his hair as he sighs, ready to give it a shot.

Ben Jackson: You know how obsessed Frank seems to be with you? Well that’s how he gets with people he wants to be friends with. Sure, you’re a girl… I mean a WOMAN, woman… and so yeah, he probably treats lady friends different than his guy friends… but as you can tell, he gets really serious about his friends. You felt first hand what happens when he realizes that someone doesn’t want to be his friend. He doesn’t like rejection at all, but to have a person be his “friend” as long as I’ve known him, and then suddenly I don’t want to be his friend anymore? He considers that a betrayal, and the way I’ve seen him respond to that before… I’m better off to just keep things with him the way they are now.

As Laura sips her beverage, she seems to understand where Benny is coming from, but then she sees something out of the corner of her eye. Looking over, she watches as Frank Garvin walks into the bar area and starts looking around. Laura motions in Frank’s direction, drawing Benny’s attention. As Jackson spots Garvin, Laura gets up out of her seat and takes a few steps in the opposite direction.

Laura: I’d better be going… He’s gotta be looking for one of us, and if he finds us together…

Realizing that there’s not much hope, Benny sighs and nods.

Ben Jackson: It wouldn’t be good.

Laura: I’ll see you at the show.

They lock eyes for another moment, Ben smiles, and then Laura walks off, just in time for Frank Garvin to arrive and sit down in the chair which was just vacated.

The Eleventh Hour Announcement

The televisions in the bar area, the banquet room, the cafeteria, the halls in that portion of the building, and yes, even in the VIP area all switch their broadcast footage from whatever it had been, and now show a LEGACY logo, which is then replaced by an image of Rob Belote.

Rob Belote: Ladies and gentlemen, I don’t want to break up a nice party, I just wanted to make an announcement before people either started leaving the building or were too drunk to remember this later. To cap off this great night of looking at the past, I wanted to give people a glimpse into the future.

People all over the party give their attention more fully at this point.

Rob Belote: For our first pay per view of the year, Eleventh Hour, Loco Martinez will be defending the World Championship, and I’m sure no one will be surprised that X-Calibur will be one of his opponents. To ensure that there is no funny business, this is not going to be just a simple one-on-one match. A very deserving Hall of Famer recently arrived in LEGACY, and fans have been asking me when Diamond Del Carver was going to get his shot to prove himself in LEGACY… so this is going to be his shot.

There’s a buzz throughout the party, but Rob doesn’t appear to be done.

Rob Belote: This is not a triple threat match, though, as there is yet one more competitor. Not only is Herb Moxley gaining a lot of fans since his return to LEGACY, but he’s also picking up a lot of momentum. As a former friend to Loco Martinez, Herb Moxley was one of the most upset LEGACY employees when he saw what Loco Martinez did at STRIFE 45, and we thought he would be a perfect addition to the Eleventh Hour main event, which, as you now know, is a Fatal Fourway.

The buzz throughout the party picks up significantly.

Rob Belote: Should be a great match, and I’m sure I’m not alone in looking forward to it.

The footage on the televisions cut to black, followed by a LEGACY logo. Our footage then switch over to a shot from the VIP area currently inhabited by Cirque du Mofo. Arch Angel stand flanking the entrance, in bouncer position, but each chatting up an attractive woman. We hear a loud, "THAT's BULLSHIT, and you know it!" The room comes to a stop and turns its attention to a clearly irate Loco Martinez who is almost out of his skin with rage.

Loco Martinez: What has the former champ done to earn a title shot? He got a rematch, and LOST. And rewarding two guys who have less than a combined year of experience INSIDE Legacy?! Man... I'd sure be pissed if I was one of the many who have poured blood sweat and tears into Legacy only to watch title shots go to a bunch of guys who don't deserve to step into a ring with THE Legacy Superstar.

Loco Martinez shakes his head.

Loco Martinez: AND… just how convenient that once I regain MY world title, the odds get stacked to retarded heights. Are we gonna TAKE THIS LEGACY?! Are you gonna continue to be overlooked like this, and have YOUR champion treated?

If there were crickets, they'd be chirping, as Loco looks around for support, and only getting it from the Cirque*

Loco Martinez: Who's with me? *nothing* - I say we show Manage-lote we won't stand for this!

JT, Angel, and Rex nod and stand up with him, Loco looking annoyed by the lack of support.

John Thomas: Yeah, this place is dead anyway. This was supposed to be a first-rate place, and it's looking to me more like the third-world.

Loco Martinez: - You know what? This is ridiculous. Lets get out of here.

Loco storms off with John Thomas, Arch Angel, and T.Rex in tow. The rest of the party watches as the foursome heads out, then they go back to their partying.