Young Lions' Cup III Promo Thread

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on Jerry Bishop seated at home, cocktail in hand.*

JB: Bullshit, am I? Now, I'm not usually one to curse, but that's strong. Name drop all you want, go ahead, Tout your championships if you must. But every championship reign must come to an end, which means you've also lost every title you've ever won. So however many titles you've won, you've also lost because you couldn't keep it around your waist. And I know every champion brags about "this title's never leaving my waist". The only person who's ever pulled that off is Hogan.

I've been breaking my back carrying this locker room to bigger and better things, and I've only ever wanted it because it would give those Freedom Fighters what they deserve. Me. As their champion. Who did they come here to see? Me. Who did they keep coming back for? Me. Who had the best match of every single card he was on? Me. Oh, Marcus and Baker lit a table on fire and nearly killed themselves! Five, no, Six Stars, please, Uncle Dave! And sure, I got my dates screwed up earlier, maybe had a little too much of this stuff, but to paraphrase the greatest of all time, my presence in FPW is worth more than any of your times spent from one side of the planet to the other. Globetrot all you want, that proves nothing. I am this company, and I have been the foundation of every company I've ever worked for, even if I wasn't chasing a championship.

*Bishop places his drink down on a coaster and leans into the camera, staring coldly.*

JB: Truth be told, I'm glad you're here, Aaron, I am. I've been hoping for someone who I can finally bring some fire out of. But two more things before I sign off here tonight. One, as I've said before, I have not forgotten what that British Lapdog has done. Nor will I. You can count on that. And if you ever mention her again? I will plant you so hard into the canvas your grandchildren will have birthmarks of the FPW logo inverted on their forehead, and they'll have smiles the size of a freeway lane and spines curvier than Liz Taylor in a funhouse mirror from how hard I will dig into you.

*Bishop smiles widely and his demeanor softens, picking up his drink and leaning over to his record player to drop the needle.*

JB: I figured I'd split the difference in our language gap here, Mr. Rock'n'rollah, pick someone you may recognize. So I'll just let one of the only other Kings *I* recognize play us out here.

*Bishop drops the needle on Elvis Presley's “Trouble”. As the song progresses, Bishop gets up and mimicks Presley's dancing style before sitting back down in his chair on the final notes. As the song ends, Bishop smiles and winks at the camera before flipping a switch over his shoulder, smashing the camera to black.*

JB: Get it?

*Bishop's cackling laughter can be heard as the audio fades out.*

[noname1525]

Jace Mason was backstage at the FPW arena, sitting in an unused room. He wasn't looking at the camera, his gazed turned towards the floor, lost in thought. Without looking up, he began to speak. "Fate is a funny thing.  There are people who believe that their live are out of their control, that whatever happens to them is up to fate. Something goes wrong, they shrug their shoulders and say "oh well." And by the same token, when something goes right, they act as though there was no other outcome, as though it was always going to happen. Personally, I'm not one of those people. I believe that I am in control of my life, that everything that happens to me is the result of my actions or my inactions. When something goes wrong for me,  I look at how I could have made it go right, something good happens, I pat myself on the back for putting in the hard work. I don't believe in fate." Jace finally looks up at the camera. "But now fate's decided to give me a gift. I had no control over the match drawings for the Young Lion's Cup, and yet my first opponent is Myra Lopez. Through no effort of my own, I'm able to settle the score with the person who screwed me out of winning the World Championship again. I don't believe in fate, but I'm not going to turn down a little bit of luck. I believe that I would be champion right now if it wasn't for Myra, and now I get the chance to repay her in kind. Myra, you'd better come prepared on Sunday, because I'm not going to let you get in my way again."

[marileeg17]

Cameras come up on Marcus as he sits alone at a table, one solitary piece of paper in front of him.

MAJ: Perhaps some of you never noticed. Perhaps you never cared.

Marcus stands up, revealing he's wearing his wrestling tights.

MAJ: Three dates. The first, November 9th, 1997, the day I was born. The day the world was gifted the greatest man to ever live, me. I'm not the greatest man to ever live. I used to think I was. Let's just say, I've been humbled.

Marcus reaches into his pocket and pulls out his signature black magic marker, crossing off that date. He slides his fingers down to the next one while looking at the camera.

MAJ: The second. July 17th, 2012. My pro wrestling debut. As much as I'd like to say that was a good moment, it wasn't. It set the tone for who I'd become, a person I'm no longer proud of. The way I approached that match, the way I had total disregard for my opponent. If I had it all to do again, I probably would. But you don't get second chances like that so all I can say is Will, I'm incredibly sorry. We could have done amazing things in that ring but I robbed the both of us and the fans of that. Maybe one day you'll give me a rematch so we can set things right.

Marcus leans down and crosses the second date off before moving to the third.

MAJ: Number three. January 29th, 2020. Today. I've had that date on my tights for some time but refused to tell anyone it's significance. Well, it's time to let the cat out of the bag. Several years ago, I attended a WWE Tryout. I was told I impressed even the big boss but I was too green. This was pre-NXT mind you so there was no home yet for a developing wrestler. But they told me I had the IT Factor and said to come back in a few years after I had some matches under belt. I asked when and one of the guys near the top, probably randomly, said early 2020. I told him to humor me. I wanted an exact date. He threw out January 29th. And that was that. I vowed that on January 29th, I'd walk into Vince's office, reel of accomplishments in hand and demand a contract. I thought pretty highly of myself back then. Anyway, I set out to do that. I signed with FPW. That would be my ticket, I thought. So I did whatever I could to capture as much success as I could. I didn't care about my methods. I know the E wouldn't either. They would care about the championships, the 5 star matches, all of which I did here. My plan was always to leave this place in the dust…

Marcus takes a deep breath as he picks up the paper on the table and holds his marker ever so close to it.

MAJ: A few days ago, I got a call. I must have made some memorable impression because the guy who told me to come back in 2020 said he'd been following what I was doing in FPW and beyond and couldn't get my audition out of his head. He asked if I remembered the date he gave me. I told him more than he would ever know. He invited me to Stamford to talk. I said yes and boarded a plane. Next thing I knew, I was in Vince's office being handed this.

Marcus holds the contract up to the camera.

MAJ: Three years, huge downside guarantee. The kind of contract I was told no one gets. It was several years later. I wasn't cocky anymore. I asked what made me so special. Vince said everything. I was told they saw me as a future star. Just spend some time in the PC, learn the WWE style and you'll be on your way to the future face of this company. Flattering. Who could turn that down?

Marcus moves the sharpie so that the pen leaves just the faintest trace of a mark on the dotted line. He holds the pen there for a few seconds, even starting to make out the M in his name before stopping and putting the writing utensil down. He picks up the contract, looks at it intently for a few seconds before shockingly ripping it up into several small pieces.

MAJ: If you're watching Vince, thanks but no thanks...See, something I never expected to happen here did. This place, you people, it became home, became family. I started here as a means to an end but now, this is the means to a new beginning. I may never get another NXT offer again but if that's the case, it's okay. In the meantime, I'm here in FPW because I want to be. I have something left to prove here and only when I do, that's when I'll leave. And you must be thinking, what do I need to prove? I've won the world title, the Young Lions Cup. I dominated this place for a long time. But it wasn't enough. These dates on my tights, they used to represent benchmarks but now I have a new benchmark, one I'm going to hold close to the vest for the time being.

Marcus crosses out the final date on his tights before reaching under the table and pulling out a box where the cameras can tell are new tights, but they can't make out the designs on them.

MAJ: I have new benchmarks now. New goals. And it would appear I now have the Young Lions Cup to kick them into high gear. Soon, you'll see what I mean.

Marcus puts the lid back on the box.

MAJ: January 29th, 2020. The day my career truly begins.

[marileeg17]

FPW.Com Exclusive (following the Launch Party)

Dasha Banks catches up with Bobby as he makes his way to the back, a huge smile on his face and CJ by his side.

DB: Bobby, a word?

Bobby nods as CJ whispers something in his ear and disappears.

BO: Hi Dasha.

DB: First off, congratulations. You beat the clock and now you're set to face Artemis Evans for the championship.

Bobby smiles.

BO: I don't like to use the word 'deserve.' In this life, no one really deserves anything. You get what you have because you earned it. But I'm gonna break my rule here because yeah, I think I deserve this. I sure as hell earned it. Going through TakeOver, getting Sevren's ass kicked out of here, beating the clock against two incredible wrestlers. But I also believe there were some karmic forces at play there. See, I earned the right to challenge for that title when I won the Dead Man's Chest but fate had other plans. I made a choice, a bad one, and I paid for it. But tonight, the universe was smiling down on me. I couldn't control Jerry or Marcus' time so all I could do was set my own pace and win my match. And I did and now, I'm back in the title picture where I've belonged and I'm thrilled to--

Bobby pauses as he notices Clutch McCloud, Danica Jane next to him, sarcastically clapping. Bobby looks at him tersely.

BO: Clutch.

CM: Orton.

Before the two could exchange additional words, CJ returns but doesn't initially notice Clutch and Danica.

CJ: What's an interview without a little bit of the bubb--...What's going on?

CM: Good to see you again Ms. Holmes. Actually, I was about to ask your...come to think of it, what is he to you these days? Boyfriend, lover, guy you're gonna leave him for when something better comes along?

Clutch chuckles but Bobby doesn't find his comments at all funny. He puts a hand protectively in front of CJ as he steps up to Clutch.

BO: Say another word to her and you'll regret it.

Clutch throws his hands up and backs off with a smile on his face.

CM: Relax kid, I mean no harm to Ms. Holmes. Or you for that matter. I think tonight I showed restraint.

BO: Ah yes, restraint. If you call hitting me with your lousy finisher instead of a lead pipe restraint than congrats buddy, you showed all the restraint in the world.

Clutch shakes his head.

CM: Now here I thought we were past that little incident. Even you might even say. I almost ended your career, you almost ended mine. Let's leave the past in the past, shall we?

Bobby considers for a few moments before speaking up.

BO: What do you want then?

Clutch extends his hand and Bobby just looks at it.

CM: May the best man win.

After a few moments, Bobby accepts the handshake but is caught off guard as Clutch tightens his grip.

CM: I'd wish you luck in your title match but after Sunday, you won't even be fit to walk out of here under your own power, let alone wrestle.

Bobby squeezes back, a little tighter than Clutch's own grip.

BO: Not only will I be ready for my title match, I'll go in 100 percent because this time, I'm not going to let up.

Clutch and Bobby stare at each for a few seconds before Clutch rips his hand away.

DJ: Come on babe, they aren't worth our time.

Clutch nods and follows Danica out of shot as cameras turn back to Bobby, who is fuming, as CJ tries to calm him down.

DB: Bobby?

Bobby looks at Dasha and takes a moment to regain his composure.

BO: I'm not focused on Clutch. Win or loss, that match only matters for Clutch's oversized ego. At the end of the day, there's nothing he or anyone else can do to stand in the way of my title match.

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on Dasha Banks in the backstage area.*

DB: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Berry Bishop.

*Berry enters the frame shadow boxing, bobbing and weaving.*

DB: Good to see you’re still in the fighting spirit, Berry.

BB: You know me, Dashy, I’m an eternal st- wait, that one’s taken.

DB: Speaking of your, um, training, how do you feel heading into your second Young Lions’ Cup?

BB: I’m feelin’ good, feelin’ alright, it’s Saturday night. And that hotel detective? He was outta sight!

DB: What hotel-

BB: I know I’ve been counted out before, I know people have written me off early as the Bishop who also couldn’t get it done, but now... Now I don’t need to worry about living up to that name anymore. Now, I only need to worry about living up to my own name, and making it something to be proud of. Time for me to finally go out there on my own and show them what Berry the Bombshell can really do.

DB: And how do you feel about your opponent for your first match, Tommy Saxon?

BB: Well, to put it one way-

*She reaches behind her and pulls out a slide whistle and blows it*

DB: You know you can just whistle, right?

BB: Tommy’s a bit of a brawler, a bit of a bruiser, a big burly boy if you will. He’s definitely got the size and power advantage, and I know he’s not afraid to throw down with the ladies, so he probably thinks he’s ready for li’l ol’ me. But, something he hasn’t counted on, most of his experience with the fairer of the species-

DB: That’s not usually the expre-

BB: -is having her in his corner. Sure, they’ve sparred and paired up, but I don’t think he’s ever properly competed against someone like me. I can dodge, duck, dip- well, you know the rest- better than the best, and once my kicks start comin’ at ya, you’d best buckle up, because the Bombshell bus is a lightning fast express route to pain town, and it ain’t stoppin’ at the drive through.

*Dasha simply looks at Berry incredulously and blankly. Berry waves a hand in front of her face and snaps her fingers, bringing Dasha back to the present.*

BB: Okay, so I still need to work on my smack talk. This was always so much easier with him around...

*Dasha catches the moment to change the subject.*

DB: You mean Botiatus, right? After all, it appears he’s taken an interest in your training and career here in FPW.

BB: Yeah, I don’t really know about all that... He’s sent me some ideas, and he’s been doing this longer than I have, so advice is always welcome, but he just rubs me the wrong way, you know? Maybe he’s just messing with me? He and Jerry haven’t ever gotten along, so what’s to stop him from picking on me too?

DB: I suppose time will tell how that pans out.

BB: Oh, thanks for reminding me! I had set some cornbread on the stove before I got here!

DB: You live thirty minutes away, why would you think that’s a good i-

BB: Ever hear of a sous chef?

*Berry whips out her phone and presses a speed dial. We hear a faint growl on the other end.*

BB: FOZZIE! QUICK! Make sure to take the c- Oh, you already did? And the salad? ...I know the potatoes need to get done, but I still need to pick up some more pepper and- This’ll have to be my exit, Dashy, sorry!

DB: I understand, thank you for your time, Berry.

*Berry walks off giving Fozzie further instructions, Dasha looks on after her.*

DB: Thank you, Berry. I really needed something like that.

[botiatus]

On Bo's Twitter account @this.IS.MYYYYYYY.HOUSE he leaves a simple message following his hard fought title defense against Masa Tchyukiro

"Arigato"

[Jim Houston]

Feb 3, 2020 9:29:47 GMT botiatus said:

On Bo's Twitter account @this.IS.MYYYYYYY.HOUSE he leaves a simple message following his hard fought title defense against Masa Tchyukiro

"Arigato"

Sato stands in front of a blank background.

"Botiatus... congratulations. You win match. You win match well. You show respect. Tchyukiro-San respect you. He prove worthy challenger. Botiatus need new challenger... maybe agree to accept new challenge... Botiatus. Defend Freedom Championship against Takahara-San. Beat both Guardians of Strong Style. Prove you worthy of ultimate respect. Or prove you lucky. What do you say?"

[botiatus]

Bo stands in his locker room in a sweat suit in his signature colors, Freedom Championship over his left shoulder. He sports a bandage on his cut forehead but his smile is bright as ever as he addresses the camera

"Sato, I see my business with you isn't quite done yet. Now don't get me wrong, after the fight that Tcyukiro was just just able to give me i'm more than curious to see what his counterpart is capable of. But there's more to it because Takahara provides a specific measuring stick of sorts for me. You see in his last match he put forth quite a great performance against Marcus Allen Jones in a losing effort. This interests me because Marcus is the caliber of wrestler that I plan on defending this title against. Which means if I want to be the champion I say I do, we'll then I need to be able to defeat Takahara. But I also understand that i'll be getting the absolute best version of you. With both your own recent loss and the loss of your tag team partner at my hands, well you will be defending your pride like never before. And that's exactly the kind of opponent I'm looking for. So Sato, I accept your challenge. And I don't think we'll need any stipulation for this. Just me and your man, putting our pride on the line and going straight at it. Sato, welcome back once again to the H.O.B!"

Bo smiles as the shot fades to black

[marileeg17]

FPW.com Exclusive (Backstage in the medical area after the first YLC show)

A doctor is examining Bobby following the events of his match with Clutch. Cameras catch as the doctor is having Bobby do the "follow the light with your eyes" test. Afterward, the doctor takes some notes and turns back to CJ who is holding Bobby's hand. Bobby's eyes look glazed over slightly and it seems he's having trouble focusing.

Dr: Alright Bobby, I'm just going to ask you a couple questions. I need you to answer them as best you can, okay?

Bobby nods.

Dr: First up, do you know what your name is?

BO: Robert Orton III but I go by Bobby.

Dr: Great. Can you tell me your birthday?

BO: August 20...20 something...24th, I guess? Sorry, I should know this.

CJ rubs Bobby's shoulders.

CJ: Babe, it's okay. You got hit in the head with a lead pipe. Obviously, that's gonna have an effect. Just take a deep breath. It's gonna be okay.

Bobby cupped CJ's hand back before turning to the doctor.

Dr: Do you remember the last person you wrestled? Do you remember what happened?

Bobby considers it for a few seconds, forming his answer.

BO: I won a Beat the Clock match against Berry Bishop that gives me the right to challenge for the world title at the final Young Lions Cup show. I don't remember getting hit in the head in that match though...

The doctor nods her head before taking some additional notes in her book. She looks back at CJ.

Dr: His recall and short term memory seem to be in flux right now. He definitely has a concussion. Not sure the severity until we do some additional tests but for now, just don't let him go to sleep for the next 12 hours.

CJ: What about his match in two weeks? He's supposed to team with Jace against the Queendom.

Dr: Let's just see how he does this week. He'll have to pass several benchmarks before he's cleared to get back in the ring and right now, he's failed most of them. I'll communicate everything to Mr. Houston and we'll continue to test him every day. Some people can recover pretty quickly. Do you know if he has any history of head injuries?

CJ shakes her head.

CJ: None that I'm aware of. Though...there was a period where he and I were out of contact so I'm really not sure.

Dr: It's okay. We'll consult his records in the morning. In the meantime, just make sure Bobby stays hydrated and again, don't let him sleep for the next 12 hours. I'll perform some more tests in the morning so we should have a better idea then of when he'll be able to return to competition. I would suggest though you let his upcoming partner know that he may want to consider having a back-up plan.

CJ nods.

CJ: Thanks Doctor Collins. I'll take care of all that so Bobby can just focus on getting better.

The doctor leaves and CJ walks back over to Bobby but before she does, she sees the lead pipe among with Bobby's other belongings. As she gets closer, she notices it has his blood on it. Angrily, CJ grabs the pipe and throws it in the nearest trash can.

CJ: I should have done this a long time ago. What are you even doing with this still? I thought we were past this. And now that bastard has used it against you again. If I have anything to say about it, no one is getting hurt with this stupid thing ever again.

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on Dasha Banks backstage*

DB: Freedom Fighters, please welcome my guest at this time, Berry Bishop.

*Camera pans to show Berry munching on some cornbread with a big smile*

DB: ...Right, why do I always forget your family can do that. Berry, you're heading into a big match in the next round of the Young Lions' Cup, and also making a bit of FPW history by being part of an all-female semifinal round. Any thoughts before you square off with Myra Lopez in your next match?

BB: Well, first and foremost, I've gotta give Fozzie some props for this cornbread. Little guy NAILED it! Second and secondmost, I've gotta say I'm kinda disappointed in Tommy and Ella. Doesn't seem very "sweet" to bring brass knuckles to a match, does it, Suplex Sweethearts? And can I just say, those two? It's a bit much with all the PDA and gettin' all up ons.

DB: All up ons? I don't even know what that means.

BB: Well, Dashy, it means they really like each other. Get a room, you high school juniors, yeesh. And what's so wrong with having Fozzie cooking? Have *YOU* tried his recipes? That li'l guy has quite the culinary mind. But third and mostmost, I'm going to be facing off against an old nemesis of mine, one of Artie's Meanie Queenie Meanies. ...why can't I remember her name... the blonde one, the one who wears white, the one who looks like that chick who just left NXT for some reason-

DB: Myra Lopez?

BB: Yes, her.

DB: You know I literally just said her name and she's the only one in the tourn-

BB: Now, this is something I've been looking forward to for a while. Putting those Queenie Meanies in their place. Myra's all about the ground game, right? She's all about submissions and working the body. Well, she'll have to catch me if she wants to pin me down. And as AC/DC says, they've gotta catch me if they want me to hang. Although that's not really the point of a wrestling match, unless we were having an Edge/Jeff Hardy ladder match moment, and that's still not quite-

DB: Berry, I do still have a job to do here.

BB: *absurdly deep breath* Goodness gracious, Great-Balls-of-Fire-was-a-pay-per-view-event-WWE-put-on-because-Vince-liked-the-name-and-forgot-he'd-have-to-pay-the-rights-for-it-and-the-song-and-never-put-it-on-again-because-he'll-only-sell-out-for-the-Saudis-because-they-pay-exorbitant-amounts-of-money-to-promote-an-event-"as-great-as-if-not-better-than-WrestleMania"-so-we-might-overlook-their-human-rights-violations! I am so sorry, Dashy, I get carried away.

DB: That's quite alright, Berry, really. And if I may be a bit less than impartial for a moment, I do appreciate your clowning more than most around here. But I do still have to do my job.

BB: I understand. To the point at hand, I've been wanting to give Artie, Myra, and Thea a piece of my mind and a taste of these kicks for quite some time. So while I may not be able to fight all three of them, I'll do my best to send my message to them in my next match. They're all just bullies, they cheat, they fight dirty, they don't care about anyone other than themselves, they play the numbers game almost as well as someone who actually knows statistics. But the White Queen is about to get a Bombshell dropped on her.

DB: Thank you, Berry, and good luck in your match.

*The camera pulls out to indicate the end of the interview, but it slowly fades out. Both Dasha and Berry relax a little.*

DB: And that was actually pretty good smack talk.

BB: Ya think so? I've been practicing.

*Camera finally fades to black*

[ticktock]

Aaron Williams sits cross-legged in the middle of the ring in an empty gym. The windows in the background show the light just starting to break through the early morning clouds. Aaron is wearing a Jester t-shirt. He looks down at it, takes it off and holds it up to the camera.

“Jerry... shall I tell you something that I always do when I'm new to a company? The first time I step through a curtain I look out into the crowd and I look to see which is the most popular shirt. I talk to the merch guys and see what’s selling big. Because when you’ve been round enough companies, that tells you a lot about them, about the people who run hem and about the fans themselves. If I look out there and see a lot of shirts with the name of the champion on them, it suggests to me that maybe the promoter gives people chances based on the money they can make. If I see a lot of shirts from someone who is constantly in small-time matches, it suggests the promoter likes to be the big man on the show and holds down popular wrestlers. But I saw this shirt. One of yours. It told me that you were the man in the eyes of the people who matter most. And I looked at your position on the card and I saw... that it reflected your popularity pretty well. You had plenty of high-profile matches and you had the chance to earn title shots. Seeing this shirt told me that this was a company I wanted to work for. You helped me make that decision because through you, I could see that this would be a place that would treat me right. But that was the first time I stepped through the curtain. I made a point to look at the last show. Do you know how many of these shirts I saw? Zip. Nada. Zilchio. You’ve done an excellent job of making these people hate you, and you’ve done it, ironically enough, because you thought they are hated you. They didn’t hate you, Jerry. They liked you a hell of a lot more than most of the guys in the back. How’s that for one of your little references?

“We’ve done a lot of talking you and I. But it’s coming close to the time when the talking needs to stop and the wrestling needs to begin. And it’s about fucking time. Our first match whetted my appetite. This time I’m planning on filling up. I’m talking epic, forty-five minute battle of two men who want to prove that they’re the best. No bullshit. Just give me your best. That’s all I want. If I get the best of Jerry Bishop, maybe you’ll even get some of those cheers you don’t realise you need so badly. Try it. Try stepping in the ring with me and being the best Jerry Bishop you’ve ever been. Try giving me every ounce of sweat, every ounce of effort, every ounce of blood. Try and be the guy I know you want to be. Try and be the guy I know is deep down there doing a... juggling act or throwing knives or pulling a fucking handkerchief from his pocket. I don’t know... but try being the man who carried all of these companies. Because this guy? The Joker isn’t carrying any company. The Joker is an asshole and The Joker needs putting in his place. No promoter in the world would let The Joker carry their company on his back. The Jester? He’s different. But The Joker? Not a chance.

“So here’s the deal, Jerry. These words are ultimately meaningless, because when we get into the ring we’ll forget about them anyway. On Sunday you have a choice. Wrestle me at your best and put on a show like nobody in FPW has ever seen or wrestle me as the loser that you’ve become and leave these people unsatisfied. More than that... leave Jim Houston, who must know you deserve a title shot given your ability, leave him questioning whether or not he could trust you to main event his biggest shows. Because let’s be honest... if you can’t have a great match against me, who can you have a great match against? I’m not trying to be cocky, but we match up so well... the people deserve to see the match that we could have. Let’s give it to them. A Plus versus The Jester. What do you say amigo?”

[noname1525]

Myra Lopez stood outside the FPW arena, watching as a car pulled into the parking lot. She walked over to the car as Artemis Evans and Thea Donovan stepped out, returning from a series of shows elsewhere. Myra stepped forward and hugged Thea as Artemis pulled her bags from the car, and then Thea pulled back to grab her bags, allowing Artemis and Myra to exchange words. But their conversation was interrupted as Thea angrily slammed the trunk shut.

"Can you believe the nerve of Houston!?" she asked. "You beat Mason" she said, pointing at Myra. "You beat him, he should be out of the tournament entirely. He should be nowhere near Artemis' championship. You don't get rewarded for coming in last, and that's exactly what happened to Mason, he was eliminated in the first round, he should be done. But instead, out of pure pity, he gets a second chance to move on! How the hell does that make sense?"

"It doesn't" Artemis scoffed. "And that's not the only problem with that tag match. Houston, in his infinite wisdom, is meddling in things that are none of his business. He's doing whatever he can to ensure that a champion he wants is at the top of the card, rather than the best wrestler in the company. He doesn't think that Bobby O can defeat me, so he's pulling the strings by potentially removing the two of you from the equation. He doesn't realize that I don't need the two of you to be a dangerous champion, but that' beside the point, the point is he has no right to do what he did. He addressed the other two before he made the match, made sure they understood the risks, but did he confer with us? No, he didn't, because he wants us to lose, so he can put his little poster boy as the champion."

There's a silence as the Queendom enter the arena, each of them with their own thoughts on the tag match. But that silence was broken when Myra spoke up, voicing her somewhat surprising thoughts.

"I actually don't hate the fact that this match was made." Thea and Artemis both whipped their heads around, looking surprised. "Don't get me wrong, it's not the best option, but I don't exactly think it's the worst either. I'm not going to turn down another opportunity to punish Jace Mason, would you?"

Artemis shakes her head, and Thea says "To be honest, I haven't even gotten one yet, this could be fun." Thea and Artemis exchange a look, smiles spreading across their faces as Myra continues.

"And since Houston decided to partner him with Bobby O, it means we get the chance to soften him up a little for you. If Thea can handle Jace and leave me alone with Bobby, I can ensure that he won't be locking in that O Snap of his, not with a broken arm."

Now Artemis' smile was even wider as she took in the implications of what Myra said. "You know, I'm starting to come around to what you're saying, we can take this insult and turn it into an opportunity. And when you pick up a victory over a pair of established FPW stars, we might be able to start thinking about a future where the two of you have those tag team championship around your waists, bring all the gold to the Queendom."

Thea's eyes light up as she imagines the possibility, and Myra nods, a devilish smile forming on her face. The Queendom continues walking down the hall, reinvigorated at the thought of them being even more dominant.

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on Jerry Bishop standing near an almost-unrealistically-lit window in his home. He's sporting a sloppy variation of his facepaint; whites, blacks, purples, and reds bleeding together, still with skin exposed beneath, almost as if he put it on the night before and slept in it. He's leaning against a wall with a hand holding a large piece of posterboard behind his back, wearing almost drab, ragged clothing. Smirking, Bishop holds a finger to his lips and draws his hand from behind his back, holding a sign which reads:*

"You're right, Aaron. The time for words has passed. But before we finally step into the ring let me show you what I think of you, how I feel about you and your words, and what is going to happen soon. After all, it is Valentine's Day."

*Bishop tosses the sign towards the camera and almost skips over to his record player. He picks up an old-fashioned artist's beret, puts it on, and his body language changes to pantomime. He looks at a brush and palette of paints laid near the record player. His face brightens up and he lets out a laugh of glee. Bishop picks up the paints and brush in one hand and drops the needle on the record with the other, where we hear this.*

*Bishop then practically waltzes to the side of the room he began on, revealing an easel and a canvas, turned away from the camera. As the song progresses, Bishop paints along to the tune, his motions matching the emphasis of the arrangement, his face contorting to match the lyrics and performance. As the song builds, Bishop's motions become increasingly exaggerated and impassioned, but as the song peaks, Bishop drops his paints and brush, brings his hands to his face in ecstasy, and turns the easel towards the camera.*

*The revealed painting shows interpretations of Bishop and Williams from above lying in a wrestling ring with a referee between them, the audience behind them barely distinguishable. Both men are on their backs, faces bloodied, but while Williams' face is blank, empty, almost sad, Bishop's face has a wide smile. Scrawled underneath are the words "Let's give them what they deserve". Bishop cackles and giggles wildly as the music and camera fade out.*

[ticktock]

Aaron Williams is helped through the curtain after the show, visibly frustrated. He tries to shrug off the two people propping him up.

AW: I'm fine... I'm fucking fine.

They keep hold of him and don't let him break free.

AW: Alright... I'll go and get it looked at. I can walk by myself.

They let him take a couple of steps and walk along close behind him. As Williams approaches the trainer's room, Dasha Banks approaches him.

DB: Aaron... I'm so sorry... are you okay?
AW: Yes and fucking no. This lump on my head? That'll heal. That stinker of a fucking match? That'll be with me forever. Jerry Bishop you motherfucker... I'm not done with you. Not by a long shot.
DB: Just get your head looked at. We'll do the interview later-.
AW: No. I'm ready to do it now.
DB: Are you sure?
AW: Yes. Let's do it.

Dasha straightens up and faces the camera.

DB: I'm joined by Aaron Williams after that... after that main event. Aaron. How's your head?
AW: My head is sore but it'll recover. I may have a lump on it for a few days but after that I'll be one hundred percent. And I'll be back to get the match out of Jerry that all of these people wanted. My head is fine but I'm not.
DB: That must have been frustrating for you out there.
AW: Frustrating isn't strong enough. I pride myself on going out there every single match and wowing each and every one of those people. No matter what they think of me as a person, each and every one of them leaves the show respecting me as a performer. Tonight is the first time in a long time that I don't think they will leave respecting me. Every time I got a foothold, Jerry got out of the ring and did everything he could to rob these people of the match they paid to see. He robbed them and he robbed me. Aaron Williams versus The Jester. That's what I asked for. And what I got... what a steaming pile of shit.
DB: What next?
AW: Next? I need to find a way to get Jerry Bishop one-on-one where he can't run away from me, where he can't decide that he's going to rob these people of seeing a match that could headline any show in the world. And I mean that. We could put on a match that could headline an NFL stadium or a baseball dome in Tokyo. Tonight isn't the end. Jerry Bishop may think that he's done with me, but I'm not done with him. Maybe it won't happen at the Young Lions' Cup, but it's going to happen. I'll do everything in my power to make sure we get a proper match. To make sure they get to see a proper match. And, Joker, to make sure that I put you in your rightful place. In our next match, you'll be seeing a whole new side to Aaron Williams. Forget about bringing The Jester. He's clearly dead. Bring The Joker and I'll beat every last bit of arrogance out of you. We'll put on the match to end all matches and I'll put in the performance which ends you.

Williams stares down the lens for a few seconds before walking into the trainer's room and closing the door behind him.

[marileeg17]

FPW.com Exclusive

Following the events of the YLC show after Marcus' conversation with Jim Houston, Marcus is seen in the hallway of the arena looking to leave for the night when Dasha Banks catches up to him.

DB: Hey Marcus, wait up!

Marcus turns around to see Dasha. He smiles softly.

MAJ: Hey Dasha.

DB: Hi...So, off the record, but WWE? Is that where you were headed when you kinda blew me off a few weeks back?

Marcus shuffles his bag on his shoulder as he nods his head.

MAJ: Yeah. I was headed to my flight to Connecticut. I wasn't trying to be rude and I'm sorry if I was. I just, I had just gotten the call and was kinda shocked honestly because I had put that so far back in my mind. I had committed to making things right here so I really wasn't even thinking about my tryout and the promise to bring me back in. It was pretty surprising they even remembered me to tell you the truth. So yeah, I just kinda had a lot on my mind that night and I don't know, I guess I'm still adjusting to this whole friendship thing.

Dasha doesn't say anything for a few seconds.

DB: I guess that's fair. I mean you and I being friends, it is kinda new...for both of us...And I get why you couldn't tell me. I mean, I wouldn't have told Jim or anything.

MAJ: Jim knew…

Dasha looks shocked.

DB: He knew?

Marcus nods.

MAJ: Yeah. I didn't want it to be a secret. I didn't know what my decision was going to be, no lie, until I made that video. But I wanted to be fair to Jim. As of a few weeks ago, there was a chance I'd be leaving FPW. I just wanted to be upfront about it. This wasn't like a LeBron decision thing ya know. I didn't want there to be any surprises.

Dasha just looks at Marcus in awe and admiration.

MAJ: Why are you looking at me like that?

DB: It's nothing, it's just...You really have changed. I mean, I've seen it, I've believed it, but the fact that you told Houston you didn't know if you were gonna quit or not, it just shows. You should be proud of who you are Marcus. Proud of what you're doing.

MAJ: Thanks. Hearing that from you, it means more than I ever thought I would. Dasha, I've gotta be honest, these past couple months, our conversations, I'm just gonna say it...You're part of the reason why I'm staying.

Dasha and Marcus just look at each other intently for a few moments before Marcus breaks eye contact.

MAJ: Anyway, I owe ya one. So maybe we can grab lunch again soon. This time, as friends.

DB: What happened to colleagues?

Marcus shrugs.

MAJ: I'm sticking around this place for the foreseeable future. Figured I'd might as well make a friend or two along the way.

Dasha smiles.

DB: Well, I'm glad to know I'm your first...And as your friend, now sounds like a good time to ask a favor.

Marcus laughs.

MAJ: Already? It's a little early in the friendship for favors.

DB: This is an easy one. And you did say you owed me…

MAJ: Ya got me there. Alright Dasha, what can I do for you?

Dasha smiles before whispering something in Marcus' ear. He looks on nervously and anxiously but Dasha just nods and places her hand on his shoulder.

DB: This place could use a good guy back on top...You got this...Anyway, I'll see you around soon. I'll want that interview for when you take Houston up on his offer.

Dasha smiles before leaving Marcus alone. He takes out his phone and pulls up some photos from his first title reign, each image featuring TakeOver and their role in his time as champion. Marcus shakes his head.

MAJ: You got this...I'm not so sure I do.