All Star Tag Team Classic III Promo Thread

[marileeg17]

IRL - Way back in the 50/50 days, I used to write promos for Bobby and CJ that Che jokingly said was his favorite soap opera. So, to celebrate Che's return to the canvas, I present to you the latest installment of the soap opera he called 'My Half Orange.' Enjoy!

Narrator: Previously on My Half Orange...The news had spread like wildfire through the locker room. Super Che Jr. and Matt Dwyer had returned. But they weren't just back to wrestle, they had returned for a greater purpose, to save the very soul of Jerry Bishop, a man who once stood ring to ring with them as the Friendmigos. Especially Che, Jerry's best friend. The Argentine superhero had been approached about returns before, but was content to turn them down until now. He knew the circumstances were dire. So when the call came from the Friendmigo symbol that was mysteriously released into the world, Che and Matt knew what they had to do. Return not for glory, but for friendship. 

We now resume this week's edition of My Half Orange.

"Oh Bobby," CJ Holmes smiled as she came bouncing into the locker room following the events of the Road to the ASTTC3. Bobby returned the smile. This was a big win and an even bigger result. Despite Saxon's attempts otherwise, Bobby kept his cool. It was progress and he knew he was able to do it because CJ was by his side.

"I know it was a big win, but I haven't seen you smile like this after any of my other wins," Bobby mused. "What makes this one so special?"

"It's not about the win Bobby," CJ said as she took a seat next to him on the bench. "It's about this."

CJ hands Bobby her phone and he watches as Super Che Jr. and Matt Dwyer make their grand return. But he doesn't seem nearly as enthusiastic as CJ as he hands the phone back.

"Isn't this great?" CJ beams. "I haven't seen Che and Matt in years. And if anyone can bring Jerry back to the light, it's the Friendmigos. I didn't realize how much I missed those guys until now! Aren't you excited Bobby? This is great news!"

Bobby stands up from the bench and walks over to his locker. He takes a deep breath before turning around, CJ's frown matching Bobby's expression of, well, indifference.

"Yeah, it's cool. I mean, it's great and all..." Bobby sighs. "What do you want me to say CJ? I haven't seen or thought about those guys in a long time. I mean, yeah, them being back might be what Jerry needs, but I'm trying to focus on my path forward. I don't want them being back to mean I get sucked back into--"

Before Bobby can finish his thought, he's greeted by three familiar faces walking through the door as Che, Matt and Missy make their way over to Bobby and CJ. Missy and CJ instantly hug and begin chatting like old friends while Che and Matt approach Bobby. The three just stand there for a few moments before a giant grin appears on Che's face as he wraps his arms around Bobby.

"Bobby! Mi amigo! It's been so long!" Che says as Bobby just kinda stands there, not completing the hug.

"Hey Che, it's great to see you too," he simply says as Che continues to squeeze him. All the while, Matt looks on cooly, as he fastens the guitar across his shoulders. Bobby and Matt make eye contact as Matt simply nods. After a few moments, Bobby gets Che off him and approaches Matt, extending his hand, seemingly more out of duty than desire (as fans of My Half Orange know, Bobby and Matt were never the best of friends).

"Dwyer," Bobby says simply.

Matt chuckles. "Orton." The two stand somewhat tensely before Matt copies Che in wrapping his arms around Bobby, this time in a more traditional 'bro' hug that doesn't last nearly as long. "It's good to see you man, how've you been?"

"I've been better," Bobby shrugs. "But it's good to see you guys back in action. I just wish what brought you here was well, better circumstances. I tried, but well, yeah, I never meant as much to him as you guys did, with the whole mask thing and ya know, you getting one and not me...Not that I'm still bitter about that." Bobby smiles sarcastically as Matt just shakes his head and Che looks somewhat confused. Bobby looks back to Matt. "He still not really 'speaka da English'?"

Matt looks at Che, who just smiles. "Oh Bobby, always the funny man," Che says. "Missy and I have actually been much improved with English. Years of wrestling worldwide made it necessary. Still not perfect, but I can understand you better now."

Bobby offers a small grin. "Oh, that's uh, that's great. I probably should apologize then. I didn't mean to make it seem like I was insulting you, it's just...it's been a tough couple months here ya know and I'm still not fully back I guess. Seeing you guys just takes me back to a not so great time if that makes sense."

Che nods solemnly as he tries to put his hand on Bobby's shoulder, but he's too short to reach. So he looks to Matt who does it instead. Bobby rolls his eyes at Matt, who just shrugs. "I do what the superhero tells me."

"Bobby, I'm sorry for what Jack did," Che begins. "I always knew he was trouble. And I'm sorry your last memory of us is well, how 50/50 ended. We were a team then, a good one. You always will be an honorary Friendmigo. Which is why--"

Matt stops him. "Che, maybe now isn't the best time."

"What's not the best time?" Bobby asks curiously. "What's on your mind?"

"Wellllll....I'm here, Matt's here, you're here," Che smiles. "For old time's sake, trios match! I have a big title match coming up, the biggest most important match of my career. I could use a tune-up and I'd be honored to share a ring with you again. What do you say?"

Che extends his hand as Matt just looks on, expecting Bobby's answer to disappoint his friend. Bobby stares at the extended hand for a few moments and is about to reply before Missy interrupts the two.

"Matt, Che, we must go to make our reservation," Missy says. "Bobby and CJ, please join us. It would be an honor to share a meal again!"

CJ looks at Bobby pleadingly but he looks back down at Che's hand and turns his shoulder. "Thanks Missy, but uh, maybe some other time. I promised Liz I'd connect about our tag match."

Missy looks to CJ. "You want to join, mi amiga?"

CJ frowns softly. "No, I should probably go with Bobby. Thanks though. You guys have fun!"

Missy and CJ share a look that says there is more going on there but Missy doesn't press the issue. "Next time," she simply says as she wraps her arm in Che's. Missy closes the locker room door behind them leaving CJ and Bobby alone.

"You lied to them. Why?" CJ asks.

"It's not important," Bobby tries to shrug it off. But CJ keeps pushing. "Those guys are your friends. It's just dinner Bobby."

"It's not just dinner Cee Cee," Bobby says in exasperation. "It's never just dinner. Those guys were my friends. Well, Che was. Matt and I never quite saw eye-to-eye. But that's the key word. They were my friends. That was a long time ago. A different lifetime really. I did some not great things to those guys in the end there. I was pretty messed up after what you and Grav---. But that's in the past and I just feel like, I should be able to leave my past behind but that's not happened here. No matter how hard I try, I'm always getting wrapped up in someone else's crap. I've not had a single meaningful feud here that didn't somehow involve 50/50, and it's not that it was all bad there, but my lasting memories of that place are. I'm trying to be a world champion again and I just don't see that happening with that monkey on my back. I don't want to just be the guy who fights his old friends and foes. And you heard Che. He's back two seconds and he already wants us tagging together. I don't want to get involved CJ. I don't want back in on this Jerry thing. Been there, done that. I tried to be his savior but I've come to realize, there is no saving him. There was no saving me. I just had to come to that conclusion on my own. Decide on my own that I wanted to be a better man. That's why I gave what was left of his mask to his sister. That's their fight now, it's not mine. And I just don't see how I can work with Che and that not become my fight again. It's just easier to stay out of it. I'll fight who Houston pays me to fight but I just want to be done with old grudges. Jack, Jerry, MDE, Clutch...I've been here years and I've yet to lock up with some of the most exciting names in this company all because I've been stuck answering the sins of my past and trying to right these wrongs. Jack screwed me and Clutch, well, that's never something I'm going to totally let go. But I chose to get involved in that Jerry/MDE stuff and I learned my lesson the hard way. It's not personal, CJ, I just need to focus on me right now. I'm one of the best this company has to offer and I'm ready to start proving that again. So no more 50/50 holdovers, no more past becoming my future. Next time I win a title opportunity, I'm going all in. If Jerry's still champ then, fine. It won't be personal this time. It will be all about my delayed destiny. I've spent too long fighting other peoples' battles. It's time I fought for me, for us. So I'm gonna wrestle this match with Karlson and end those stupid Suplex Sweethearts, and then, I'm going to make a statement. I was thinking about this for a while but what Che said tonight just made me realize, now is the time. Come the end of the ASTTC, a PPV that holds so much history for me, I'm turning the corner. I'm gonna ask Houston for a mic and a platform, and I'm going to make people remember that I'm still a measuring stick around here. I've never been more sure of anything than I have been of this. It's time to start my climb back to the top, to leave the past where it belongs, and carve the future I want."

CJ just looks at Bobby as she takes in his words. After a few moments, she wraps her arms around him and kisses him on the cheek. "I get it, and I 100 percent support you. I know your past struggles include what I did to you but this time, I'm in your corner and no one else's. If you want to start fresh, I'm with you. This is your journey Bobby, your time. You've done so much for this company and you've done so much for others, you deserve this. So whatever you want, I'm here for it. 100 percent. Your partner from here on out. Never doubt that, okay? It's you and me kid. And that's a future I wouldn't want to share with anyone else. I love you Bob-O. Always."

Bobby cups CJ's chin and strokes her hair before kissing her softly on the lips. "I love you too. Always."

CJ smiles. "Now come on. You may not have been entirely honest earlier about Karlson but that doesn't mean we can't start working on a gameplan to present to her when you two talk later. I've got some thoughts from the last couple matches I watched them in. Marcus picked up on some weaknesses that I think we can exploit too."

As the camera zooms out, Bobby and CJ are seen going over some strategy for their upcoming match.

Narrator: Will Bobby be able to escape his past? Will Che and Matt be able to save the very being of Jerry Bishop? Will Jim Houston finally change the locks on his office door? Join us next time for these answers and more on My Half Orange.

[veggieleezy]

*We see a large contingent of the FPW arena custodial crew thoroughly scrubbing and straightening Jim Houston's office, purple suds coating the walls, furniture being righted. Houston stands at the door animatedly discussing something with several members of the arena security team. Thalia Colombina approaches, dressed in uncharacteristically informal attire, topped with a purple beret, and draped in a black and purple smock. There are paintbrushes and cleaning supplies sticking out of the smock's pockets along with a microphone. She approaches Houston, bringing the camera within earshot.*

JH: ...know he has a key, but how did he get in here without ANY of you noticing?! The paint was still wet for God's sake, how could you have miss-

*She takes the microphone from her pocket and taps Houston on the shoulder. He whips around angrily*

JH: WHAT. *he takes a deep breath* I'm sorry, Miss Colombina, is there something-

*He notices her attire.*

JH: Is this some kind of joke? What am I talking about, of course, it is.

TC: Whatever do you mean, Mr. Houston?

*He gestures broadly to her attire*

JH: This? The smock? The beret? Surely you know what's happened here?

TC: Well, for starters, my name is Thalia, don't call me Shirley-

*Houston slams a fist into the wall*

JH: Walked into that one...

TC: Second, I have heard what happened here as I arrived this morning, which is why I'm wearing the smock, and I brought some extra cleaning tools in case anyone needed them.

JH: And the beret?

*Thalia adjusts it coyly*

TC: What can I say, it is stylish, isn't it?

JH: Spare me the routine, I'm not in the mood. If that- if Jerry has anything to say to me, tell that clown he can say it to my face like a reasonable man. There's no need for vandalising my office like a lunatic!

*Thalia gasps in shock.*

TC: What makes you think Mr. Bishop had anything to do with this? Or that he's even capable?

JH: Are you kidding? The purple paint? The Jack-in-the-box? The ring? Who else would do those things? Who else could even HAVE those things?

*Houston angles himself slightly back towards the security team*

JH: The fact that "whoever" did this was able to get into my office, ravage it, and slip out without being noticed?! The maniac even left jokes all over the place! Everything about this screams Jerry Bishop!

TC: *practically tutting* Mr. Houston, out of respect for this promotion and its fans, I had hoped you could comport yourself with some restraint and dignity rather than throw around wild accusations! I came here out of the goodness of my heart to make sure you were unharmed, and you tell me you think my client did all of this, based on circumstantial evidence?

JH: CIRCUMST-

TC: Perhaps this is merely the handiwork of a disgruntled fan? Freedom Fighters, I believe you call them?

JH: *Through gritted teeth* You know perfectly well-

TC: Perhaps whoever did this was upset at a decision made by management? Perhaps something they feel wronged by? Or perhaps they simply didn't approve of your... *she unsubtly stifles a gag* decor. Not that it's my place to question your decisions, Mr. Houston. While I am under a personal contract, I do still work for Freedom Pro Wrestling.

JH: That's right, you do, and I have half a mind to do something about that.

TC: More threats, Mr. Houston! For shame. I do hope your day improves, and I would like to state on behalf of my client, and for the record, myself, that unwarranted allegations will be taken into future consideration.

JH: Now who's making threats?

TC: My dear Mr. Houston, I am not in the business of making threats. Simply promises. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must attend to my other duties, for which I am actually appreciated.

*She turns to leave. As she saunters away, we hear her singing the first bars of "I Will Survive". Houston catches this and sets his jaw before turning his attention back to the security team.*

[veggieleezy]

*Camera comes up on Berry Bishop and Botiatus stretching before a workout. They're wearing their new tag team color scheme, which Berry glances at with a cheery smile.*

Bo: Okay, Bombshell. We're partners now. I've coached you along as far as I can, but now we're in this together as equals. I've put you through some of my workouts, so I suppose it's about time I try things your way.

BB: AlllllllRIGHTY then! First thing's first. Music. Fozzie?

*Fozzie Bishop bounds into shot carrying a boombox in his mouth. He drops it next to Berry and she gives him a salmon to munch on. He digs in with a happy roar.*

Bo: You just carry around fish?

BB: That's a Berry House Rule. Fozzie's a good boy, and he helps me out a lot, so he gets his treats.

Bo: That I can understand, but where do you even carry them? I didn't see you bring a cooler or anything.

BB: Berry House Rule #2- when it comes to Bishops, don't question physics. We find it's best not to think too much about it.

Bo: Fair enough.

BB: Now. Take a deep breath in...

*She stands and stretches her arms out wide, bringing them up and over her head. Bo mirrors her movements.*

BB: And out...

*She exhales, bringing her hands down into a pointed motion above her head. Bo follows.*

BB: And in...

*She inhales, lifting her arms in parallel out to one side. Bo copies.*

BB: And out...

*She lifts her arms once more over her head, palms touching. Bo mirrors her.*

BB: *under her breath* It's fun to stay at the-

*Berry rapidly does the same motions again. Bo copies, and realizes what's happening. He chuckles.*

Bo: Okay, you got me, I'm in.

BB: Let's do this. FOZZIE!

*Fozzie perks up from his salmon.*

BB: Mash play on that jambox, little buddy.

*Fozzie growls dutifully and presses his paw against the play button. We hear the opening notes of Michael Sembello's "Maniac".*

BB: Showtime.

MONTAGE:

-The two are rapidly bouncing on their toes in an open dance floor.
-Berry and Bo are in a spin class at the local gym.
-Berry and Bo are in a vacant lot with a pair of chickens. Fozzie has a stopwatch around his neck.
-The duo stare at large glasses containing raw eggs and other cliche protein power powders.
-The two now sport leg warmers and headbands in their respective colors, still high-stepping rapidly on the dance floor.
-Berry yanks her spin cycle from its setting and careens out the gym window, Bo follows, murmuring apologies to the trainer and the gym staff.
-A Dance Dance Revolution mat appears beneath Berry and Bo, the two channel their energy into hitting their marks.
-Berry holds up a fist, calling for a "rock-paper-scissors" to see who drinks the raw eggs. Bo shoots and wins.
-Berry spins wildly in a circle on the dance floor. Bo slows down slightly to make sure Berry keeps her balance.
-Berry and Bo cycle along the streets of Chicago as the locals stare at the bikes kicking up sparks.
-Bo catches one of the chickens, Berry chases the other.
-Berry nails her marks on the DDR mat, Bo struggles to keep up.
-Berry calls for a "two out of three" for the raw eggs, they shoot again and Bo wins.
-Berry cycles along Lakeshore Drive, somehow creating a Tron-like effect behind her. Bo kicks into overdrive to keep up.
-Bo wins the raw eggs shoot, but he still drinks them to support this partner. Berry still struggles with hers.
-Bo places his chicken on a soft patch and watches Berry chasing the other chicken.
-Berry somehow manages to perfectly perform the choreography to Swan Lake, Bo and Fozzie applaud in support.
-Berry finally pulls her cycle over and checks it in at a Divvy bike-share station. Bo starts to explain why that doesn't work but quickly resigns.
-Berry catches her chicken, and she and Bo collaborate on building an Animal Crossing town.
-Berry psychs herself up to drink the raw eggs, she finally does so, and swallows. She exaggeratedly gags but ultimately keeps it down. She and Fozzie hug before she ultimately concedes and hugs Botiatus.

Bo: ...I don't think I'm ever going to understand how you do what you do, but I'm glad you shared this experience with me. I know this isn't something you share without reason. That takes a lot of honesty and vulnerability. And given my knowledge of your relationships in FPW, I know that's not an easy thing.

BB: *smirking* Are you always this psychological?

Bo: Part of the job. And to be honest, it's something we both need to work on. But one last thing before we move on. You shared something special with me, now I'm gonna share something with you.

*Bo holds out his arm, hand extended for a high-five. Berry connects, and Bo leads her hand into an elaborate handshake, ending with an "explosion".*

BB: Did you put in the explosion on purpose?

Bo: Too corny?

BB: Nah, just corny enough.

[veggieleezy]

*We come up on Jerry Bishop in the Art Institute of Chicago, dressed to the nines in a black and purple pinstripe suit, admiring an abstract work.*

JB: *to himself* I may not know art, but I know what I like.

*Thalia Colombina approaches in a purple evening gown.*

JB: Speaking of, Miss Colombina, always a pleasure.

TC: The pleasure is always mine, Joker.

JB: *tutting slightly* Not in public, my dear, YOU know my name, I know my name, but these Philistines wouldn't know a true artist if he DDT'd them onto a Jackson Pollock.

TC: Of course, I should realize this city doesn't recognize power unless it buys its way into political office.

*Bishop cocks an eyebrow*

JB: You've already acclimated to Chicago's utter nonsense in such a short time, I'm impressed.

TC: I can impress in any number of ways, Mr. J.

*Bishop grins widely before shaking himself into composure.*

JB: Keep talking like that and we'll get kicked out of here before this interview is over. I'm guessing that's why you're here, is it not?

TC: Yes, Mr. Bishop, I'm sure you've heard Mr. Houston's slanderous allegations against you in regards to what happened to his office. Not only that, but he's also placing a fine against you for what happened. But we both know that a pinnacle of poise and propriety such as yourself couldn't possibly be involved in such an act.

JB: Oh, no, not I.

*The two smile wickedly.*

JB: But, since Jimmy insists on placing fines against me, without any definitive proof of my involvement mind you, I will take the high road and pay the fines he so rudely demands. I mean, it's not like I can't afford it, after all, my contract is the most important in Freedom Pro Wrestling. I know Jimmy's upset with me recently, and I can't imagine why. I'm a fighting champion, I oblige to management, and I'm still here with a smile on my face even after losing my- our place in the All Star Tag Team Classic.

TC: Speaking of which, your partner, MDE submitted one of FPW's latest signees, RDJ-

JB: Good grief, we have a lot of initialisms in this company...

TC: Do you see Jackson as a potential threat going forward?

JB: If he can't get past MDE, he doesn't stand a chance against me. MDE is the greatest tactician in this business, and if Jackson can't get past a man with a plan, then God help him if he gets in there with the one man you can never plan for.

TC: Are you upset that you and MDE are no longer in contention for the FPW tag team championships? You are already the single most enticing, exciting, and engaging figure in professional wrestling with the FPW Championship around your waist, but two belts would surely be a sight to behold...

JB: We are still in public, my dear. And yes, I am somewhat disappointed that the Limey and I aren't in line to hold all of the gold at once at the moment, but I have faith that our time will come.

TC: And as for the return of your former allies, Matt Dwyer and Super Che Junior? To be completely honest, Mr. Bishop, not even I could have anticipated this turn of events. My knowledge of your career does also ends at your arrival in Freedom Pro Wrestling. Ironic, considering 50/50 was based in the UK, but I suppose there wasn't anyone on the roster at the time that drew my attention. But if we must be serious for a moment, how do you feel heading into your match against Super Che Junior?

*Bishop turns his attention back towards the painting on the wall. He takes a long deep breath and lets it out slowly, his composure almost meditative, his tone as sincere as we've heard in quite some time. His eyes never break from the painting.*

JB: Super Che Junior was there at the beginning. We were put together because Gr- because the powers that were didn't know what else to do with guys like us. They saw two colorful clowns and put us together. ...and we made MAGIC... Then, Matt Dwyer joined our cause... I'm still not entirely sure what drew him to the team, but once he joined, we became to pro wrestling what the Crayola Corps are to comic books... We spread our magic around the world... We always had our core unit, but we'd found our own paths across the planet. For a while, all three of us were going to make our mark here in FPW... But that never happened... And I'm biting my tongue to make a "Summer of '69" joke right now. So I was on my own. And that magic didn't work anymore. It worked for a while, but I was the only one who was still trying to carry it. And once I realized that the Freedom Fighters weren't going to appreciate what I was trying to give them, what I'd been giving them since I signed to FPW, I realized that the Friendmigos were dead. The Jester was dead. It was all dead. And it was never going to come back. So I evolved. I became better. I grew. I moved on. And now, Super Che and Matt show up out of left field, and for some reason the crowd are cheering for them? They weren't here! They weren't fighting for the people! They weren't putting in the hours trying to carry what we had fought to maintain for so long. I was the one to carry that burden. And the crowd turned on me. The whole time Che and Matt were gone, I did everything in my power to maintain the Friendmigo legacy. But that apparently that legacy didn't matter to the crowds once I was the only one carrying that banner. So I dropped the flag. Because the flag didn't mean anything anymore. So Matt... Che... The only reason the crowds are reacting to them is because they're a nostalgia act. They're the Rock'n'Roll Express. They should've hung up their boots YEARS AGO because that style doesn't work anymore. Matt and Che couldn't adapt. They couldn't hack it anymore. They ran away. But I was always here. And they think just because they came back now, they think the crowd isn't going to turn on them just like they turned on me. Well, if you'll allow me to mix my musical metaphors, Miss Colombina, give 'em enough rope, and we'll hang 'em high.

TC: Profound insight as always from our Freedom Pro Wrestling Champion. Thank you, Mr. Bishop.

JB: Thank you, Thalia... You've allowed me to let go...

*Thalia stands confused as Bishop stares into the painting. She touches his arm and tries to catch his attention. He flickers to attention and smirks at her.*

JB: Why don't you head home, my dear, I think we've excited ourselves enough for the moment. I'll see you shortly.

TC: To quote the film, "as you wish".

*Bishop and Thalia smile at each other for a moment as Thalia exits the shot. Bishop turns his attention back to the painting before him and his expression glosses over.*

[noname1525]

The camera opened on a training facility, where Myra Lopez was running through a drill with a trainer as Thea Donovan approached the camera.

"Over the last several months, the Queendom has been what it's always promised to be: dominant. Even during the absence of Artemis Evans, we cut a path through the tag team division that led us straight to the champions. And we took those champions to the limit. And now? Now there's only two obstacles between us and facing the champions once again.

Myra called out from the ring, and Thea hurried back in. The two practiced a double-team maneuver, with Thea connecting with a superkick as Myra pulled the trainer down with a Russian leg sweep that she transitioned into a grounded version of an octopus hold. She held the submission for a moment before she let go and rolled out of the ring, allowing the trainer to stand and begun running a drill with Thea. Myra walked over to the camera, wiping the sweat from her brow before she began speaking.

"The first thing standing between us and the Guardians of Strong Style is an obstacle in name only, Jace Mason and Aaron Williams. We've faced off against Jace before, and with few exceptions, the result has always seen us come out on top. His partner, Aaron Williams, we're admittedly less familiar with. But we're not afraid of him, and why would we be? The man's lost more times than he's won here in FPW. He may have been great in the past, but he's clearly lost his touch, and we're going to take full advantage of that. The fact is,we're going to dismantle them the same way we dismantle everyone who gets in our way, and that spot in the finals will officially be ours."

Myra glanced over her shoulder to see Thea call her to the ring. She ran over and slid into the ring, quickly hitting a codebreaker on the trainer that launched him into a backstabber from Thea. This time it was Thea who rolled out of the ring and walked over towards the camera as the trainer stood and began working with Myra.

"But who will our opponents be in the finals?" Thea asked. "There's only two possibilities, and neither of them pose much of a threat. The first is the team of Berry Bishop and Botiatus, and while they're both respectable singles athletes, they've had just one match as a team. They don't have the experience that Myra and I have, experience that's necessary to being a great tag team. And that lack of experience will be what leads to their downfall if they face us."

"On the other hand, we have the Dogs of War, and that's a far more interesting prospect. They've teamed together for a while, and they've held the gold to prove it. They're widely regarded as a highly dangerous team, one that shouldn't be overlooked. But they said the same things about Death Squad, and you all saw what we did to them. And I can assure you, the Dogs of War would be no different."

Thea turned and ran back to the ring, with the camera following her this time. Myra had the trainer lifted onto her shoulders, and as Thea entered the ring, she connected with a superkick as Myra brought him down with an F-5. The trainer rolled out of the ring as both Thea and Myra turned to face the camera.

"And once we finish going through the All Star Tag Team Classic," Thea said. "We're coming for another shot at those FPW Tag Team Championships"

"And this time," Myra chimed in. "We're going to finish the job."

[ticktock]

Dasha Banks stands with Aaron Williams, whose smile seems to be all mouth and no eyes.

DB: Aaron, thank you for your time. You're a week away from the All Star Tag Team Classic semi-finals against The Queendom. Are you ready for such a tough test?
AW: No problem, Dasha. I always enjoy our little talks, you know that. The Queendom... I heard what they said yesterday and I agree. They're very good. They have been on a roll recently and they will be a tough challenge for us. But we've already come through one tough challenge and we don't expect anything less. The thing is, they'll be tough in a different way to Jerry Bishop and MDE. I don't think many people will claim that Thea Donovan and Myra Lopez, as accomplished as they are, are on the same level as Jerry and MDE individually, nor as myself and Jace if I'm being brutally honest. But as a team? They're a stronger team than Jerry and MDE and therefore Jace and I have step up as a team. We won against Jerry and MDE because we out-wrestled them individually, but this match will need a totally different approach. We've been working hard together and I think we've done enough to make it at least one step further than last year.

Williams looks off into the distance for a moment and his smile drops, but he turns back and it returns to his face.

DB: So a mach with either The Dogs of War or The House of Berry and Bo would await you in the final. Any preference?
AW: Let's get to the final first and then we'll see. I don't want to look too far ahead.

DB: Speaking of looking ahead, you've already signaled your intention to win the Free-1 and main event Judgement Day III. We're getting ever closer to that time of year. Any inside scoop on Jim Houston's announcement?
AW: No, I don't know anything. I guess we know what the Free-1 is all about by now. I'll be ready when it comes, but it's not my primary focus at the moment.

DB: Aaron... are you ok? You don't seem... you're not your normal self today.
AW: I'm sorry, Dasha. I'm just a little deflated right now. This morning, wrestling fans from all over the world have woken up to just horrible news. I don't claim to know Hana Kimura very well, but I met her briefly last year when I went to Japan and honestly you couldn't hope to meet a nicer person. In fact, I passed her details onto Jim Houston but I don't think he was able to work something out. I just... from my experience, wrestling fans as a group are more susceptible to mental health issues... anxiety, depression, you know. Wrestling is a form of escapism for people with those kind of problems and I'm fucking proud to be able read messages thanking me for a match which made someone forget about the shit in their life for even a short period. That's one of the biggest motivators for why I go out and put my body on the line in every single match I have, why I go out with a primary aim of entertaining, because I know from speaking to fans for so many years what a difference it can make. What does it matter if I go a bit too far and lose a match if a couple of people get that little bit of light that starts to turn their dark place into something more bearable? Me losing means nothing compared to that. Wrestling can do that for people and it does every single day. And yet a small minority who call themselves wrestling fans can hound someone and abuse someone so much that... I'm sorry... I kind of went off on a tangent there.

DB: Aaron... we don't have to do this now. We can always-
AW: No, it's fine. I just... I'm sure there won't be, but if there's anyone thinking of coming to the All Star Tag Team Classic, or any shows that we put on, who contributed to this fucking tragedy... just stay away. We don't want you. And if you do turn up, don't you dare sing along with me or cheer for me. I don't want the admiration of anyone who thinks it's okay to abuse such a wonderful young woman... she was twenty-two. Social media makes me sick sometimes. Next Sunday, when Jace and I go to the ring, be it once or twice, we will give every ounce of effort that we have, and we'll do everything we can to lighten up whatever dark places anyone might be in. It will be too late for Hana, but I want to make a difference to anyone out there that I can. And if you're someone whose spot in the world is already light enough, share as much of that light as you can. It's the one thing that you can keep giving to other people and never lose. Let's be the positive change we want to see in this fucking world, because it needs as much positive energy as it can get right now.

DB: I... I really don't know what to say.
AW: I'm sorry. I kind of derailed this thing. But I think it needed to be said. People can hide behind a screen name or a blank picture or whatever and think they can say and do whatever they like. I know what it feels to open an app and see message after message of people telling you how much you suck or how much they hate you. It's not nice. I was always able to ignore it most of the time, but people don't have the right to make anyone feel like they don't want to be human anymore. I hope I speak for all of FPW when I say that we need to be the light that spreads out to others and pulls everyone else up. That's why I go into the ring every day and that'll be what pushes me to give everything on Sunday. And if Jace Mason and Aaron Williams give everything they have, God help anyone who stands across the ring from us.

Williams nods to Dasha and walks away, leaving Dasha to wipe a tear from her cheek.

[ticktock]

"One... two... three!"

The crowd chant along as the official counts the fall.

"And your winners, Revolution-X!"

RJ Tudor stands and Jackson Banks steps through the ropes, the two of them having their arms raised by the referee before climbing to the top rope and saluting the Sixty Minutes of Freedom crowd in Scranton, PA. They jumps down into the ring and Banks calls for the microphone.

JB: What's up Scranton!

The fans cheer and RJ Tudor steps onto the bottom rope and bounces up and down, encouraging them to get louder.

JB: Every night we wrestle is a fucking dope night and this one was no different. It's lit to be picking up wins and building some momentum, but we probably should talk about The Dogs of War.

The fans boo, but Banks quickly cuts them off.

JB: No, no, no, no, no. We get that you don't like those guys but props to them. They got us. But RJ and me, we're proud of that match. Tell them, bro.

RJ Tudor grabs the mic.

RJ: Man, we showed everyone what we can do. We know we got a way to go but we're really feeling it right now. And we may not be winning no Tag Classic this year, but I guarantee we'll be lifting that thing before long.

Tudor tosses the mic back to Banks and stokes the flames of a 'Rev-X, Rev-X, Rev-X' chant.

JB: So we gonna get back to work. We gonna get back to walking these ropes and finding crazier and crazier shit to try. And next time you see Revolution-X, we'll be a little bit better than before. And then we'll be better than that, and then better than that, and then better than that. And eventually our time will come and we will light up FPW.

Banks turns to leave the ring but Tudor grabs his shoulder and takes the mic again.

RJ: But fiiiiiiiirst... we a tag team for life, but... it looks like tag team wrestling isn't gonna be a big focus over the summer. So... how about your boys throw our hats in a new ring? How about Revoution-X in the Free-1?

The fans cheer and the 'Rev-X, Rev-X, Rev-X' chant builds up again.

[veggieleezy]

*We come up on the door to Jim Houston's office. A hand knocks against the door, and we pan over to see Jerry Bishop dapperly dressed in a bright purple suit, shooting his cuffs and adjusting his tie. The door opens to show a peeved Jim Houston.*

JH: Bishop.

JB: Jimmy.

JH: I assume you're here to pay your fine?

JB: Yes, the fine you placed on me without any definitive evidence to assoc-

*Houston splutters*

JH: Definitive evidence? Purple paint? A Jack-in-the-box? Jokes littered across my office? A scorched League of Friendmigos ring? How could I possibly think it was anyone other than you?

JB: Well, we did move our share of merchandise...

JH: Don't play coy with me, your "advocate" came by earlier and tried to steer me off your scent, but I'm onto you, Bishop.

JB: Jimmy, you wound me, deeply!

JH: Everything that happened here points directly at you. Almost as if you meant it that way.

JB: Jimmy, you're making a lot of assumptions here.

JH: Oh, am I? Enlighten me, then. Sweet talk me like your little Muse couldn't.

*Bishop bristles a moment but regains his composure.*

JB: While she is an FPW employee, Miss Colombina is also under a personal contract, of course it's natural she would advocate for me in this situation. But she is under no necessary obligation to do so.

JH: Come off it, Jerry, she's been singing your praises since the day she walked into this company. And when I last saw her, she was singing-

JB: *cutting in* She was singing the song of a concerned FPW family member. While she may be directly... reporting to me, she still is concerned about the wellbeing and the state of the company and its overhead.

JH: And you've been overhead of Miss Colombina quite a bit, haven't you, Bishop?

JB: What goes on between myself and Miss Colombina in our own lives is none of your concern, Jimmy. Now, look, I'm here to try and make things right and help move things along. I'm perfectly willing to pay the fine you've levied against me without-

*Houston clenches his teeth, Bishop raises a finger to Houston's lips.*

JB: WITHOUT definitive proof of my involvement. After all, Jimmy, you built this company around me, didn't you? I know you may not enjoy saying it these days, but it is still the truth. I was, am, and always will be the first contract signed to this promotion. Whether or not you agree with what I do in the ring, my actions outside the ring aren't why you signed me, and to date they've never been a concern, so why should they be now? I came here to give the Freedom Fighters what they've always wanted. And now I'm giving them what they deserve. You may not like how my "ringwork" has changed, but I'm still doing precisely what you've always asked of me, aren't I?

*Houston's lips twitch in anger*

JH: I know it was you, Jerry, you broke-

JB: Don't you dare use a Godfather line. And don't you DARE compare me to Fredo.

*Bishop steps close to Houston, about two feet separate them.*

JB: Fredo was weak and stupid. I *used* to be weak and stupid. Now? I'm better than I've ever been. Yes, I've changed my style, yes, I've changed my looks, but all of that has nothing to do with what you're accusing me of.

*Houston starts, Bishop cuts him off*

JB: And I know how upset you are about the paint and the notes and the ring and all of that, but there still isn't really anything to prove that I definitively did any of it? Maybe a fan who understands what I've been trying to do my entire career stepped in? A longtime follower, who knew me from way back when, who watched me go through my dark spell, and who saw me come out the other side looking like, and eventually becoming, a champion?

*Houston and Bishop stare at each other.*

JB: You may not want to think it, and I feel like you probably don't, but there are some people out there who respect me now more than ever. And maybe, just maybe they acted out in such a regrettable fashion because of their devotion to their favorite performer? We did have Friendmigo rings made, Jimmy, Che and Matt said so themselves. We spread that Friendmigo flag around the world. Maybe, just maybe, all of this is the act of one of those Friendmigo Faithful who stuck with the one man who carried that flag until its dying days, until it stopped meaning anything to the world at large, and instead became a flag built around what I was trying to bring to the table. Not some nostalgia act with a couple of washed-up masked pretenders.

*Bishop takes a roll of bills from his jacket pocket and peels off the amount that he's been fined.*

JB: Look deeper than you are right now, Jimmy. Really think about it. Why would I, the promotion's champion, risk my place in this company with such petty actions? Have I ever acted like that before? Maybe in the ring I've been a bit less to your liking, but I've never done anything against you or the company. And I would never hurt you or this promotion.

*Bishop holds a stack of bills out towards Houston. Houston hesitates.*

JH: That still doesn't sound like you're denying you *would* ever do something like this.

JB: Jimmy, if you think so little of me that you imagine I would act so callously, so coldly, so... downright creepily, I am hurt. I know we've grown apart recently, but I'd never stoop to such lows.

*Houston takes a deep breath and takes Bishop's hand holding the bills. Bishop takes grip of Houston's hands.*

JB: But I assure you, I take personal affronts very seriously. Especially comparing me to Fredo? Of all of the characters from that series? Not even Sonny? Hell, all this seems more like something Sonny would do. All of that aside. If there's any comparison to be made, if you insist on making such comparisons, if you truly still think that all of this is something I'm capable of, then let me at least give you the correct analogs. I am the Grimaldi Godfather. I am the Clopin Kingpin. I am the Clown Prince of Combat. I am the Capo di tutti Pagliacci. I am the goddamn Joker. And even with all of those accolades, I'd never stoop so low as to petty vandalism. I may be a clown, but don't ever accuse me of a joke I didn't make. Even if it is funny.

*Bishop releases Houston's hand. Bishop stares coldly at Houston for a moment before straightening his tie and smiling.*

JB: Look, Jimmy, if you really believe I had a hand in all of this, then why not check the security footage? You said yourself that the guards on duty didn't live up to their job descriptions, so why not actually check what happened? I'm honestly insulted you hadn't done that before placing a fine against me. BUT, I'll be the bigger man and do as I'm told.

*Houston grits his teeth*

JH: As you full well know, the tapes mysteriously cut out with my office still as it was and magically return with it in the state you left it in. I don't know how you managed that one, but you certainly thought this plan of yours through. The little splash of paint on the lens was a nice touch by the way

JB: I imagine it would be. A bit on the nose for myself, but still fitting for a fan.

JH: Of course.

JB: Look, Jimmy, you may not think it, but I do still train for my matches. And if you'll excuse me, I must get on with my regimen. I'll see you this Sunday.

JH: See you at your match.

*Bishop smiles and walks away, Houston glares after him, slamming his door behind him.*

[Jim Houston]

Dasha Banks stands with Sato.

DB: Sato, thank you for your time. I'm surprised you're here in person. What brings you here from Japan?
S: Guardians of Strong Style coming to All Star Tag Team Classic. Watch semi-finals. Watch final. See next challengers. Two teams Guardians of Strong Style have faced before. Two teams Guardians of Strong Style have not faced before. Guardians of Strong Style must scout.

DB: Do you have a preferred winner?
S: Guardians of Strong Style will face any challenger.

DB: The first semi-final is The Queendom versus Jace Mason and Aaron Williams. What do you expect from that match?
S: Queendom. Guardians of Strong Style's last challenger. Tough team. Give Guardians of Strong Style difficult challenge. But Guardians of Strong Style overcome Queendom. Jace Mason and Aaron Williams. Star wrestlers. But star team? We do not know. Jace Mason. Two-time FPW Champion. Aaron Williams. Former champion all over world. Including Japan. Whoever wins, Guardians of Strong Style would enjoy challenge.

DB: And then we have The Dogs of War versus The House of Berry and Bo. Thoughts?
S: Dogs of War defeat Guardians of Strong Style once. Guardians of Strong Style defeat Dogs of War once. A third match. Interesting prospect. Guardians of Strong Style will get second win. House of Berry and Bo. Newer team than Jace Mason and Aaron Williams. Interesting team. Botiatus beat both Guardians of Strong Style individually. But together? Not so sure. Berry Bishop? Good kicks. Not as good as Takahara-san. Guardians of Strong Style would enjoy challenge from either team too.

DB: Will you be at ringside for the final?
S: No. Guardians of Strong Style not need to be at ringside. All Star Tag Team Classic not about Guardians of Strong Style. Guardians of Strong Style watch in background and look forward to challenge of winners.

DB: The Guardians of Strong Style are widely considered the best tag team in FPW history. But you've never won the All Star Tag Team Classic. Were you disappointed not to enter the tournament this year?
S: Guardians of Strong Style want to be champions. Champions not enter the tournament. Given choice, Guardians of Strong Style choose champions. But next All Star Tag Team Classic, Guardians of Strong Style hope to enter and hope to win.

DB: Thank you for your time.
Sato bows to Dasha and then leaves.