"Primordial Arrogance" w/ Jack Valentine

The Supreme Sequel

It's a brisk windy night in Atlantic City, New Jersey. We see an empty lifeless boardwalk stretching a few miles along the coast. It's all lit up with street lights and the majestic glow of the different casino’s dazzling decor. The ocean waves can be heard crashing and the tide gently scurries up the beach and back down just as softly. Suddenly, a chuckling Jack Valentine stumbles out of the Tropicana casino. He’s dressed nicely in a red dress shirt with his sleeves rolled up, he’s wearing a gray vest, black dress pants, and shoes to match. His hair looked as to be pulled back in a ponytail, but is completely disheveled from his “wild” night he’s apparently having, with most the hair being pulled out of the hair tie. He’s been sweating profusely and finding his way outside has been the relief he’s been looking for as he walks slowly into the night and onto the boardwalk. He heads towards the wooden railing separating him from a drop to the sand. He’s been holding a silver flask, which he brings up to his mouth and takes a nice swig before leaning onto the railing. His forehead glistens in the moonlight as he looks up and there’s not a star in the sky, but a big full moon. One casino sign flickers annoyingly as repair is needed. Valentine glances at his silver Movado watch.

Oof. 4 am. I’m about 6 hours past my bedtime.

He inhales the fresh ocean air slowly and leans with both arms on the railing, dangling his flask over it. He pulls out his cell phone and opens his messages. Very few conversations are with saved contacts.  No new messages, but Valentine scrolls and catches a few congratulations on his recent win, but they all have something in common. Valentine seems to owe them in some way, he shakes his head. Suddenly, he receives a text. It reads…..”SUPREME!” Valentine releases an exhausting sigh. Another message. “Read receipt! Why are you awake! You have to be at the gym at 8!!!!” Valentine sets the phone down and looks out to the endless ocean. He faintly hears the broken casino sign buzz.

Supreme. Reamer. My recent ally. My old nemesis. 4CW Hall of Famer, former World Champ, leader of High Society, blah, blah, blah. I’ve beaten him. He’s beaten me. Win or lose it takes an awful lot outta me. I’m still sore from War and Witch Hazel was no peach.

That sign seems to be buzzing louder now. Valentine takes another swig and dips his head back to get every last drop. He rests back on the railing and makes a face like he’s going to be sick. He seems to recover, but then belches loudly and for quite an impressive amount of time. He starts to lean backward, almost as if he’s losing his balance, but catches the rail with his outstretched arm. He kind of swings back towards the rail and then catches himself. Valentine starts chuckling and then laughing, before settling and leaning against the rail again.

I really put it all on the line, just to have the horses to beat Rhys. I needed to win. I needed to make my mark. That took precedence over everything else. I’d figure the rest out later. Well…..it’s later.

Valentine glances back down at his phone and focuses in on a certain conversation where the last message just says. “$$$?” He then places a hand on his right temple and rubs in a poor effort to alleviate the stress. The buzzing doesn’t seem to be in intervals anymore, its continuous.

My payoff was dick. If I don’t win this Storm Chasers Tournament and get a shot at that title. Doesn’t matter which title really, championship reigns always result in dollars. I can’t help but live above my means, but the only time things were good in my life…..2005. The year I held the 4CW Universal Championship for nearly a year. Money wasn’t much of an issue then. Ugh, that sound.

Valentine glances behind him. All the street lights and casino signs are much brighter then he remembers. Now he rubs his temples with both hands as the stress is becoming pain. He closes his eyes and lets out a groan of discomfort. The buzzing is getting louder, starting to drown everything else out. His phone vibrates, adding to the confusion.

Am I in over my head? Is the stress getting to me? I’ve accomplished so much so quick, but have I really accomplished anything? Let’s get down to brass tax here. Be honest with yourself for once. What have you REALLY done? Who actually cares? Is that even my true issue? There's something deeper.

Valentine releases a long sigh that would seem to indicate he’s about to address the elephant in the room. Given his current inebriated state, the elephant would appear to be pink. However, The 4CW Original would appear to be lost in thought and confronting a terrifying reality.

I’m scared. I’m legitimately scared. Before it was all about my legacy. Now it’s about both. I’m 31 years old. The time is now. And if I fail. It’s not just my legacy that will take the hit. I fucked up. I spent above my means and took out a loan with the wrong people. And Supreme…….

Valentine hears the buzzing and it’s deafening. He grunts and moans. He lets out a low sound that starts to get louder and before you know it he screams in anger and throws his flask at the buzzing sign, as hard as he can. It connects and the glass shatters! The whole sign starts lighting up and off as the panels die. Back and forth all over. Sparks fly widely like a personal fireworks show for Valentine. He looks on for a moment and then begins to look around for any witnesses. Finally it stops and Valentine leans back against the railing gasping. He drops his head and stares at the wooden planks making up the boardwalk.

Supreme can beat me. He’s more seasoned, he’s more accomplished, some say he’s better. And he’s done it before. I could lose and be eliminated from the tournament. And then what? Then I’m fucked.

Valentine’s phone buzzes and he shoots a look at the destroyed sign, looking for signs of life. He snaps out of it and picks up his phone. He shockingly grins.

Valentine: Now there’s a blast from the past.

???: Heya Jackie boy.

That soft yet rough voice. I’m instantly brought back 5, no 6 years. It couldn’t be.

Valentine turns his head and sees a small slender figure come walking out from behind the side of the casino. She walks forward and emerges into the light of the street lamps and sports a sarcastic smile and stares Valentine up and down. Valentine locks eyes and shakes his head with a lighthearted sigh.

Jenna Divyne. Former 4CW diva. Former Redemption member. Former…...fuck buddy. The wrinkles on her forehead and the lines on the sides of her mouth tell me this past half a decade plus haven’t been too kind. She was never all that attractive to begin with, but she could be a good time. Never was my type, but did I ever really have one?

Valentine: Miss Divyne. What brings you to the East Coast’s little slice of heaven? You couldn’t have missed me that badly. Could you?

Valentine sarcastically bows and before he falls over, awkwardly straightens himself back up. She walks right up to Valentine and grabs his vest with both hands. She pulls herself up to his face, standing in her toes just for a second. She kisses him gently on the cheek. Then she drops back down and looks into his eyes, her smile now gone and replaced with mild concern.

Divyne: You smell like booze and something else I can’t quite put my finger on. You were never the one to dance with drugs. No. And judging by the destruction you’ve left here…...I think that something is…...fear.

She’s not my type, but she reads me like an open book. Interesting how she just pops up knowing who I will be in the ring with come Sunday. This female presence gives me one idea on how to evaluate this stress.

Valentine: A lovely lady like yourself shouldn’t be slumming it here. You’re more the Caesars type. Why don’t we….

Divyne: Stop. I’m not here for that.

She takes a small step back and tilts her head. She gives an apathetic look and then plants one on Valentine’s cheek again. Except this time it’s a fist. Valentine stumbles backward and his back hits the railing. He’s barely able to keep his footing and leans against it. He holds his jaw with his hand and give Divyne an angry and confused look.

I didn’t see that coming. Who the fuck does she think…..

Divyne steps right up to him and starts pointing in face and her words can almost be seen dripping with anger.

Divyne: Why do you do this to yourself? All the talent in the world and you’re a shit.

Valentine: Where did you even come from!?

Divyne: You’ve beaten Supreme before, but now you’re scared? There’s more going on isn’t there? There has to be. The Jack I remember was hungry to win. You beat him not once but twice! You lead us all into battle and came out on top. That’s what I liked about you. You’d do whatever it takes. And you seemed to be on that same path. But then I find you like this???

Valentine: What the fuck are you doing here? How did you find me?

Divyne pulls her hand back for another swing and Valentine flinches.

Divyne: Jesus Christ Jack! What happened to you???

Valentine backs away from Divyne and the railing and down the boardwalk. He’s walking backwards and almost immediately trips over himself. He falls flat on his back and stares up at the abyss like dark blank night. Then she appears in his direct line of sight.

Divyne: I don’t understand you. You’re acting like you’re at rock bottom. You’ve been on a tear since you’ve come back. You are hotter than ever right now! This is your best chance to make it count. Get your shit together and stop feeling sorry for yourself!

Her words. They’re padded with razor blades! She’s terrifying. She’s right. This is no time to cuddle up in the fetal position. I feel sober now. Much better. The buzzing is gone.

Valentine: Alright Jenna. You’ve made your point. Now help me up, I’m not in my twenties anymore.

She grins and grabs his hand and gives little aid in pulling him up, as he does it mostly himself. He stands firm and dust himself off. They lock eyes. Divyne puts her arm through Valentine’s and she escorts him back into the casino.

Divyne: I’m not sleeping with you, so get that stupid look off your face. Get me something to eat I’m starving.

Whatever. I need some food in me too. After that right hook she gave me I suddenly find her more attractive. Funny. I didn’t think it was possible to literally have sense knocked into me.

Interview with an Asshole

A commercial to donate to the poor African kids with a guy looking like Santa Claus in a blue shirt comes to an end. We then fade in to our regularly scheduled program. The set of the controversial but once popular “Off the Record” set can be seen. Sitting to the left is the host in a baby blue V-neck sweater and jeans and on the right separated by a small coffee table is Jack “Mad Dog” Valentine. He’s dressed in a full black suit with a white shirt and red tie. His hair is pulled into a perfect ponytail and it drapes onto his shoulder blades. He stills sports the nibbly beard across his face. He sits with one leg crossed over the other and his arm leans on his on leg and supports his head. He fixes himself for a second and a Gold Rolex Watch can be seen for a split second. His 4CW Hardcore Championship sits on the coffee table in front of them.

Michael Landsberg: Welcome everybody! I’m Michael Landsberg and welcome back to Off the Record. We have a special show today with a special guest from the one and only 4CW! I’m here today with Jack “Mad Dog” is it? Haha. Valentine. Welcome to the show Mr. Mad Dog.

Couldn’t even introduce me without being ever so slightly disrespectful.

Valentine: Ya like that don’t you Landsberg. Mad Dog.

Landsberg: It’s very menacing. Strikes fear into everyone that crosses you, doesn’t it?

What a dick

Valentine: Only one way to find out.

Valentine drops the fake smile and glares at Landsberg before winking and starts laughing.

Landsberg: Ha. So. *Mrphm* So you’re the first 4CW star we’ve ever had on the show, however we are no stranger to wrestlers. But you are the first from Four Corners Wrestling.

Valentine: Pleasure to be here. Didn’t know you were still on the air Mike. Or is this for a YouTube channel or something? Anyway, there’s a first time for everything and who better than 4CW’s very own founding father.

Landsberg: You say that, like it has some kind of clout.

Small dig. But understandable. Keep cool.

Landsberg: You’re 31 years old. You’re the now 3-time 4CW Hardcore Champion, former Universal Champion, multiple WAR match winner, 2012 13 Ghost Gauntlet Winner, former leader of Redemption, and you’ve just won the Stormchaser Tournament. So with all of that, you’re also the number one contender for 4CW Universal Championship and that title fight will take place at Revival live from AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas on
April 28, 2019! Whew! Quite a list of accomplishments there Jack. And it’s to my understanding that you’ve just returned to 4CW this past August?

Valentine: That’s correct Mike. I was on hiatus for quite some time. Little back issue.

Landsberg: All that hard work so quick and you’ve earned yourself a title shot, huh?

Valentine: Two for two, Mikey.

Landsberg: So this “Revival”. It’s kinda like WrestleMania for you guys?

Valentine: Bigger.

Landsberg: I’m sure. You gonna add some gold to your collection there?

Finally a solid question.

Valentine: The 4CW Universal Championship means a lot to me. It’s not the top title, but it was my first. Going back to 2005. It’s the title that tells the fans and the company, that your time is coming. It puts the rest of the roster on notice as well.

Landsberg: I see. And what about your opponent. Brian White? The train?

Now I can’t tell where that dig was directed. At him? At me? At the company as a whole? The general profession??? Man this guy gets on my every nerve.

Valentine: That would be a Freight train. You know the big one? He hasn’t been around as long as I have, but much like me he’s gotten off to a hot start. He’s held multiple titles, including the world title, and won 4CW wrestler of the year. He’s an “Unstoppable Force”. He may even be of the Hall of Fame, but they put anyone and everyone in that. He’s a formidable foe, but the overall talent in 4CW has been down. Hence my win streak since I returned.

Landsberg: Former World Champion. Sounds like you’ve got your hands full.

He really doesn't realize that this match means everything to me. And I don't think I want him knowing. I need to keep this within. Regaining the Universal title, after winning it back in 05. Despite all the high profile matches and victories, one thing I have been without to increase my notoriety, improve my legacy. Has been title reigns. Who remembers the guys with no championship rings? Not many names come to mind. It's all about the titles. This Hardcore is great and all, but who takes it seriously? Its brand new. That Universal title has been around since the beginning and its a big step in route to the 4CW Championship. It can't be ignored. I have to win. I NEED that belt. I...I....I realize now that he needs a response.

Valentine: I guess we’ll see what happens when the Unstoppable Force meets the Immovable Object.

Landsberg: I like what you did there. Because of the Train and then yourself. You're good Mr. Mad Dog.

Every time he calls me that I want to laugh. Laugh and rip his fucking head off. You belittling fuck.

Valentine: So what's it like to have a show for roughly 15 years. 15 years of being nothing but an asshole, who couldn't make it in real journalism, so you wind up with a gimmick show where you are purposely disrespectful, because you feel invincible in front of the camera.

Landsberg grins and glares at Valentine.

Lansberg: You're quick. You're witty. But you don't think. You're the kind of person who can't see the train coming before it's right in front of you. I've dealt with your type before. They never last and I rarely get a second interview, because they are no longer....relevant. In my book, all your talk is an attempt to make up for a lack of what you can, or in your case, can't do in the ring.

Vaelntine: Good thing for me, your book don't mean jack shit in my world.

Lansberg looks Valentine up and down real quick and Valentine does the same. There is an uneasiness as they stare at each other. Landsberg tries to hold the glare, but decides to glance off towards his notes. Valentine can't help but grin having won a small victory as Landsberg completely change the subject.

Landsberg: This is live. I am invincible.

Valentine shakes his head ever so slightly.

He says that and he actually believes it.

Landsberg:Now our research states that you started back in 2005, I believe that would have made you…..

Valentine: I was 17 years old when my career began.

Landsberg: Isn’t that illegal?

Valentine: Most likely, but I needed the money. And 4CW needed a bonafide star. [chux], Inferno and Supreme can only get you so far. So I lied and forged a few pieces of paper. To be honest the guys running the show back then didn’t seem to care. I looked the part. And certainly walked and talked the part. And now 4CW is what it is.

Landsberg: I can see that. I can see you're very high in yourself. But it seems you’ve had an on and off again relationship with 4CW. Never really staying more than a year or so. Why is that?

Valentine: I’ve had many demons in my life Michael. Not a whole lot of guidance to help cope. I’ve taken full responsibility for my past actions and look to do better going forward. Like I said previously, I’ve dealt with my fair share of injuries and most recently a bad back.

Landsberg: Word on the street is…..

Landsberg reaches forward onto the desk and grabs a piece of paper with one hand and his other hand disappears behind him and shockingly return with eye glasses and he begins to read. Glancing up at Valentine for just a second and then with every sentence, puts up a finger until he runs out of them.

Landsberg: And this is from your past and current peers and bosses. The names have purposely not been included.

-    Hard to work with
-    Constantly Complains about fairness
-    Thinks he always knows best
-    Sexual Predator
-    Almost always late
-    Cocky son of a b****
-    Piece of S***
-    Disappears for weeks at a time
-    Contract was made to be broken
-    Thinks he’s better than everyone else

Landsberg looks up at Valentine. Suddenly the lights on him become much brighter and its hotter in the room. He squints and even holds his hand up for a second, but realizes its an obvious sign of struggle.

Landsberg: There’s two to three more pages of this would like me to continue?

First big test. Hold it together. It’s not like anything said was false. Beat him at his own game.

Valentine: I certainly don’t mind, but I’m sure your viewers might.

Landsberg: Any rebuttal to these claims?

Valentine: Sure Mike. I am very hard to work with simply because I am the best at what I do and these ass clowns can’t keep up. I’ve never been treated fairly, having very few title opportunities, despite being the main attraction. I obviously know best, because 4CW has barely managed to keep itself alive and has always prospered with me on board. I arrive at exactly the time I intend to. Some woman in the locker room asked for what they had coming, and I would do it again. Don't provoke the pooch, unless you're prepared for what you've unleashed. I'll leave it at that so I don't overstep my bounds and upset this easily upset-able sissy society.  I’m very cocky because I’m hands down the most polarizing figure this company has ever or will produce. And I leave when promises have been broken, I’ve been cheated, lied to, ignored, or if I need too. That goes hand in hand with the contract. Finally, I am better than everyone else, but I understand everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Even if it’s wrong. I'm not here to hold hands or explain the meaning of life. I'm hear to do what I do best, and that's compete with the best of the best. Sadly 4CW is like a middle school gym class and I'm a college grad. I've outclassed the roster. And my record speaks for itself. It's untouchable. I would complain too, if I were anyone else. Heavy lies the crown.

Suck on that, Landsberg,

Landsberg: What about the accusations that your back injury was a farce? That because you left so abruptly back in 2013, just weeks before a dream match against [chux], only to return the following summer with a mysterious career ending injury. Yet here you are, sitting in front of me, presumably perfectly fine?

Bastard. Knew this be coming eventually. Even though he's been cancelled, his background checkers are still legit. I guess he'd have no show without them. Need to play this right.

Valentine: Funny you should ask that Michael. I was told by doctors that in one of my gauntlet matches, in route to Revival that year, I suffered a……ruptured, fractured, lower, slipped disc, in my vertebra, near the bottom of……my back.

Valentine nervously reaches behind him as he explains, trying to point everything out. A bead of sweat forms on his forehead. The lights are suddenly brighter again. He blinks several times as he speaks. He talks much faster, nearly saying two words at the same time. He's sputtering. He's in trouble.

Valentine: You know where the back meets the……back of the hips…..the butt. I’m no doctor. They said my career was over and I had to come to grips with that realization.

Landsberg doesn’t look to impressed, but sports a look like a predator. He smells blood in the water, ready to pounce. Valentine looks awfully pale.

Bump. Set. Spike. Jesus Christ, that was a horrifyingly bad answer. You studded like a slow person and that look in his eye only proves that you set him up perfectly for the powerbomb response. Brace yourself, dumb ass.

Landsberg: I’ll be honest with you Mr. Dog. That sounds like complete hogwash. If I had to guess. I don’t think you never ever injured. I think you made up an excuse for yet another disappearance from your company. We have, at the very least on record, that you’ve up and left 4CW without notice…….7 different times! That’s astonishing! Its amazing that they keep allowing you to come back.

Fucker….

Valentine: It’s unquestionably something I’m not proud of, but I was also very young as we’ve established. However, I WAS injured whether you choose to believe me or not….Michael.

Valentine clearly has a change in tone to something more sinister and intimidating. He leans forward and stares at Landsberg. But he’s not relenting. He leans in as well.

Landsberg: I think the injury started and has remained, in your mind. I think you run from your problems and make excuses. You’re still a child, but in a man's body. And that’s why you’re not enshrined with the best of the best, despite your best efforts. And we all know how much that means to you. The 4CW Hall of Fame.

Time slows down as he looms directly at Landsberg's lips. As he says Hall....of....Fame. As he says 4...C....W. The word enshrined sticks out and then as its followed by "best of the best". Valentine can feel a stomach ache coming on and he winces, ever so slightly.

Did he see that? His words are like razor blades. I feel like Superman and he's juggling Kryptonite. He's a master at his craft. Or am I just walking right into every set up and allowing him to have his way? Say something you moron. Anything!

Valentine: So you're my shrink now?

Landsberg: Jack. Nobody is blaming you. You’ve had no adult supervision most of your life. You’ve learned to survive on your own. You’re not alone in that regard. Just most people sink or swim and you seem to be barely keeping your head above water.

Valentine drops his head into his hands and shakes his head back and forth.

I feel like in some douche bag way he's reaching out. He wants me to crack, so he can help pick up the pieces. Any reaction is his game. Sad, anger,it doesn't matter! He just wants something. Wait. I am who I am. And what do I care? I've always been an opportunist. When you're losing the game, change the rules.

Valentine: *Sigh* Ugh. It’s so true. It’s so true that it hurts. I’ve had no one my whole life. And those I do have. They come and go. No true friends. Not even my closest allies were my friends. We were just there for a job. I even had to borrow money from the Russian mafia to pay people to join my team at the last War Pay Per View. Am I that pathetic deep down? Michael?

Landsberg: I don’t get many breakthroughs like this. But you seem to be making a break through here. Keep talking. Maybe we can get one more breakthrough. People are watching.

Valentine: Well there is one more thing.

Landsberg: What’s that?

Valentine: The table.

Landsberg: What…what about the table.

Valentine suddenly grabs Landberg by his shirt and rips him out of his chair, holding him up in the air and then immediately slams him down onto the coffee table, which doesn’t budge. Valentine shoots a quick look of displeasure, disgust, and disbelief.

Valentine: Well.......I was wrong. Thought we’d have another breakthrough for sure. Guess that table is made of solid oak. Sucks to be you Landsberg! How invincible do you feel now!

Security quickly rushes the set and charges Valentine, who is having himself a nice laugh. Someone knocks into the camera and it falls revealing the ceiling and then Michael Landsberg riving in agony, all the while feet can be seen rushing past him to help with the Valentine scuffle. Shouting can be heard in the background and louder crashing noises. Valentine then can be heard laughing hysterically in the background, although it seems he's been subdued. The camera then begins to short circuit and reveal nothing but static and then darkness.

Man I’ve always wanted to do that

The Victory Speech

A quiet shuffling can be heard in the pitch black. Then the sound of dress shoes clicking against a hard floor. Then for a moment….nothing. A voice.

???: Be sure you get everything. Don’t stop filming for any reason. I want it all.

This is the best idea I’ve had in months! Maybe years!

???: Get everyone’s reaction to everything. But mainly stay focused on me. Especially during my prestigious speech. The speech is everything.

???: No problem. I’ll do whatever you ask. For an hour. You only paid for an hour and that was with the special this week. Anything extra will…..

???: Showtime!

Suddenly, two large doors open up and reveal a grand hall filled with people standing. Men and women all dressed in uniforms. Ranging from different branches of the military to law enforcement attire. They all stand facing forward, creating a walkway between them all as none other than Jack “Mad Dog” Valentine emerges from the doors. He steps into the light and looks around at everyone, a grand total of ten people on each side. He looks down the path they’ve created and onto a stage where Mullet Superior, Minion, Roman, Jenna Dyvine, Smoke, John “K-Dogg” Krone, Julian MagneZ, a small very old chihuahua with an officer’s hat on, and a few more military dressed looking “generals” await him. The steps leading up to the stage reveal the recently acquired 4CW Universal Championship, encased in glass on a pedestal.

As Valentine emerges, a camera man steps out from behind Valentine and starts filming the scene, but being sure to focus in on Valentine as much as possible. He’s dressed in all black to “conceal” himself from everyone in sight. All the people in uniform suddenly look forward and salute, holding the position.

A true heroes welcome. At last. Probably could have used a few more officers, or maybe a smaller hall. This looks a little silly, but it’ll do. This is just the beginning.

As Valentine steps into the light, he is revealed to be wearing a full tuxedo. The sleeves are ripped off, showing off his arms, which he splashed oil all over. The tux itself seems to be extra tight around his chest and he has his face completely clean shaven. His hair is pulled back into a tight braided ponytail as usual. He looks around at the grand sight and then finally begins his descent towards the stage. And as soon as he takes his first step, https://youtu.be/m1dXRe0Z1hw begins playing. Valentine walks and raises a hand up and waves to the saluting audience to his right. And then the left. A few former 4CW competitors on stage give eye rolls.

They don’t think I noticed that.

Valentine: If you record anything on stage, make sure it’s nothing but smiles and clapping. No nonsense.

Camera Man: I can’t control…..

Valentine: Do it or you’re fired! I haven’t paid you a dime yet and I don’t have to if I’m not a satisfied customer!

Valentine goes right back to smiling and waving. The music is so loud it's nearly deafening. The “soldiers” looks a bit uncomfortable. He finally reaches the steps leading to the stage and bows his head blushing as he ascends. He heads straight down the line of his “friends”. He shakes their hands individually, with the cameraman close behind.

Mullet Superior: Just like old times.

I can’t believe this is the guy who got me into the business and 4CW for that matter. At least I didn’t have to pay him to show up.

Valentine: It’s 2005 all over again.

Minion: Congrats little man. You owe me a shot.

Please. Like 4CW would ever take you back, let alone give you any meaningful minutes on air. 4CW’s first “big bad”. Give me a break. Get to know this guy and see how truly soft he is.

Valentine: Anything you say, ya big oaf.

Roman: ………

My first tag partner. So jealous of my career taking off and yours sputtering. He could never do it on his own. You’re only a step above a jobber.

Smoke: Should’ve been me. Should’ve been mine.

Oodles of potential. Talent, size, strength. Just can’t get him to get off the damn couch.

Valentine: I had everything set up for you and you bailed as usual. Get your ass in gear already!

Krone: Didn’t think I’d show did ya? Still up to your ridiculous antics?

My old tag team partner. The good one. The Dog Pound. The best thing that never was. I went on hiatus and his career took off for a bit. But look who’s got the gold now!

Valentine: Whatever I’m doin. It worked!

MagneZ:

He’s not even looking at me. He’s staring off at the lights and people.

Valentine: Julian?

MagenZ: Nice setup you’ve got here. Wanna get high after this?

Valentine: Uh...Maybe later.

Nuff said.

Valentine finishes the line and heads towards the glass case, holding his championship belt. Jenna Divyne steps up and removes the belt from the case carefully. Valentine smiles and raises his arms upward as she straps the title around his waist. She then hugs him and offers her hand out for a shake.

Divyne: You did it. You managed to keep your nose clean just long enough to really leave your mark. Congratulations. I mean it, from the bottom of my heart.

Jenna. She managed to keep me on the straight and narrow. But sweet baby jesus shes lacking in the looks department.

Valentine: You were there to keep me on track. I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart. If you weren’t so ugly I’d seriously consider some kind of relationship with you.

Divyne: You fucking piece of…..

Valentine immediately bends down and taps the dog on the head, simultaneously and unsuspectingly dodging a haymaker from Divyne. She’s quickly restrained by some “officers” on stage. Valentine steps passed the glass case, oblivious to it all. He walks up to a podium with a small microphone protruding out from it.. He touches the neck to adjust it and there’s a loud feedback noise from the microphone. Valentine taps the microphone head.

Valentine: Testing. One. Testing. Ok we’re good. Welcome! Welcome everyone!

The music dies out quickly and everyone drops their solute and turns to face the stage and Divyne he pulled off the stage. With little fuss shes escorted out. Valentien clears his throat and holds both arms up in the air as he begins speaking.

Valentine: Today we celebrate. We celebrate a great victory in the life of me. In the life of the single greatest competitor this world has ever seen! Possibly the greatest man! But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This is merely a step. A large step. Some could argue a leap! In what my legacy has and will become. My legacy, that has already. And finally! Been recognized by the fools running 4CW! Yes I know it took them long enough. But good things come to those who wait.

Valentine takes a second and swallows. He turns and motions for someone to do something. The cameraman does a panoramic shot of Valentine’s victory speech. He waits with awkward silence until an “officer” rushes him over a cup of water and he drinks it. He tosses the clear plastic cup aside and puts both hands back on the podium leaning onto it.

Valentine: Ah hem! Just less than one year ago. Jack Valentine made his triumphant return to 4CW! He defeated 4CW superhero Rhys Cain, not once but twice! I am one of the main reasons that a former 4CW treasure, turned into a crazed lunatic. I started that downward spiral!

Uniformed Crowd: Oorah!

They’re eating this up! Money well spent.

Valentine: But no! I was not finished! I entered into the first ever Storm Chaser’s tournament! I defeated young up and comers such as Witch Hazel and Tommy Young! I defeated….yet again…..Supreme! Capturing the 4CW Hardcore Championship in the process! I won the whole damn tournament to get my shot at the grandest stage of them all! Which brings me now to the former champion, yet present challenger! Brian White!

Uniformed Crowd: Booooo!!!

Valentine: That’s right! I won the 4CW Universal Championship at Revival, on the same night I was inducted into the 4CW Hall of Fame!

Valentine closes his eyes and dips his head and upper body backwards, as he says these words. Not being able to help himself in soaking in, how great Revival went for him. He snaps back down with a grimacing look.

Valentine: Only that stooge McGroin, prevented it from being a perfect night. But I’ll deal with that nitwit another time. I have bigger fish to fry! Because I am a fighting champion, I have already been summoned back to the squared circle! Except this time I am the champion and that very same squared circle with be encased in cold steel! If you believe what they say, they believe the advantage goes to the Freight Train! The very same Freight Train that I did not just defeat and take his championship for my own. I made him submit to the pain! Knowing full well that he’d be forfeiting his title to me! And he did it anyway!

Valentine pauses for a second, before coming back to the microphone with much more ferocity in his tone. Each word just dripping with anger.

Valentine: The amount of disrespect that I am still currently shown is astounding! They think they are locking me in with the Freight Train. The very same Freight Train I derailed! Let me be clear. We all saw what happened when the Unstoppable Force met the Immovable Object! Putting the same two forces in the same cage together will only result in the same outcome! Like I said, this Universal championship run is merely a step in my journey to true greatness! I am already the greatest man to hold this title! The sky's the limit! And I will even break that limit! I will take this company to feats its never seen before!

The uniformed crowd begins applauding and cheering wildly. Behind him on the wall up high, a rolled up banner suddenly unravels and reveals Valentine Hall of Fame plate banner, he clearly had made for himself. The crowd starts chanting “Champ!” and “Hall of Fame!” Valentine feels the energy of the room. He becomes more eccentric with his arms now flailing around.

Valentine: July 28th! 2019! Phoenix, Arizona at Chase Field! Jack “Mad Dog” Valentine. 3-time 4CW Hardcore Champion! Former leader of Redemption! 4CW Original! 2-time and current Universal Champion! And current! Always and forever! 2019 Hall of famer!

The small crowd goes wild! Even the former 4CW competitors give a little clap.

Valentine: I will walk into that cage with my title and I will walk out…...STILLLLLLL 4CW Universal Champion! And after that! We’re going after the most prized possession this company has to offer! We will demand it all! We will……

Suddenly the crowd stops chanting and cheering. They all simply turn around and start leaving. Everyone on the stage does the same and the lights begin shutting off.

What…..What the hell!?

Valentine: Where are you….hey! What happened!?

Valentine realizes that the microphone has been shut off. He begins hitting and kicking it as the stage clears. He feels a hand on his shoulder.

Minion: Good job. Almost a perfect speech little dude.

Valentine: It’s not over yet. Get back in line! Mullet! Come on!

Everyone files out of the hall so quickly, that it's actually quite remarkable.

Dyvine: Karma bitch.

Jenna Dyvine appears from nowhere and walks right by. Not even looking at Valentine, but flipping him the middle finger as she walks by. The lights then shut off.

Cameraman: Well I got everything. I’m assuming you want the end cut. For an extra $200 I can edit everything perfectly for ya.

Valentine looks completely disheveled. He runs his hands through his perfectly pull back hair.

Valentine: Just…….just get the hell outta my face.

The cameraman seems to be saying something. He eventually walks away. Valentine is completely in his own little world. He drops his head, staring at the ground.

God damnit! So close to perfection. Soon enough I won’t have to hire anyone for victory speech. It’ll be parade. This past year has been very good to me. Everything is in motion. Soon enough, it’ll all be mine. One step at a time.

MagneZ: Hey Mad Dog! Tough luck. Wanna get high?

Julian MagneZ has mysteriously appeared next to Valentine in the darkened grand hall, holding a lit doobie. Valentine doesn’t move or even acknowledge MagneZ’s sudden arrival. The doobie appears in front of him, as MagneZ moves it back and forth teasing Valentine. He takes it.

The Pompous Ass Spectacle

???: Alright!!! I need two lines here people! Those with the premium package on the right! And those with the silver package on the left! Everyone else to the back!!!

A large crowd of wrestling fanatics shuffle around the Wells Fargo Center in South Philadelphia, PA. People push forward, jockeying for position as the aforementioned lines attempt to form. A few “workers” come out with cones and caution tape, in an attempt to restore order. In the crowd, we spot a familiar face. It’s Jenna Divyne. She’s making her way through the crowd as fast as she can. Her former 4CW athletic and bulky build, allows her to power her way through everyone and whenever she is questioned, she holds up a “Press Pass” that looks pretty legit. She makes her way to the front door and she slips inside through the line confusion. Once inside, she glances around and quickly notices the people inside are not fans, they all push up against the glass doors on the outside. Inside is filled with “press” members from various outlets. None of any note. Divyne looks furiously around the concourse. She spots several “jobber” looking wrestlers standing in a line that lead into the arena.

Divyne: What the hell does he plan to do now?

She heads in that direction and holds up her press pass as she makes her way down the aisle of seats. She reaches the bottom and spots the wrestling ring surrounded by cameras, lights, more press members, and a few random people. Then she sees him. Jack Valentine stands in the ring in full wrestling attire with his 4CW Championship encased in a glass pedestal, just outside the ring. A “Pictures with the Championship - $59.99” sign, hangs on the case. Valentine is giving an interview to some reporters that look like they’re barely teenagers. Divyne can’t believe her eyes and hops the barricade. She enters the ring and shots out.

Divyne: Jack!

Valentine doesn’t respond. He stands like a superhero…...or villain. Chatting the interviewer’s ear off. Various words like “greatest”, “best”, and “epic” can be heard repeatedly. Divyne takes a step forward before she’s grabbed by former 4CW competitor Julian MagneZ. They struggle but MagneZ is too strong.

MagneZ: Where do you think you’re going sweetheart?

Divyne: Get off me, loser!

MagneZ: That’s not very nice young lady. You’re still going to have to wait just like everyone else.

Divyne: Jack! JACK!

Still no response and MagneZ starts backing her up toward the ropes. Divyne rolls her eyes and shouts out.

Divyne: OH MY GOD! It’s him! It’s the 4CW Champion! Mad Dog! Sign my tits!!!

Valentine: Well after I eliminated Madeline Phoenix from the Rumble, it was down to the final three! All odds were against me, two matches already under my belt, I dug deep, I…..boobs?

Valentine whips around with a grinch like grin across his face and his eyebrows raise into his hairline. He locks eyes with Divyne.

Valentine: Don’t mind if I do. And who do I make it...you again. Ugh. I believe I’ve already signed your tits…..

Divyne knees MagneZ in the groin and he releases her, falling to the canvas. She runs up to Valentine and swiftly shoos away the interviewer. Valentine looks on in extreme annoyance.

Valentine: What the hell do you think you're doing? I'm hosting the event of a lifetime here. One of which no 4CW Champion has before! You purchased the gold package obviously, right?

Divyne: What the hell is all of this!? You’ve got a title defense at War! Against not one but two of 4CW’s best! I don’t get it. Despite your bullshit, you’ve reached the mountain top! You did it! And then you walked into Gallows End completely unprepared. The only reason that you still have that title, is because your opponent was a suicidal maniac!

Valentine: Just look at this Jenna. The crowd, the security, the cameras, the reporters! They’re all here to see…...me! And you came all this way, through all my adoring fans…...to tell me…..that?

Divyne slaps Valentine across the face and everyone stops what they are doing and their eyes lock onto them. The slap echoes in the now quiet arena. Valentine turns back and looks around angry and embarrassed. He remains calm and holds his hands up. He smiles.

Valentine: It’s alright everyone. It’s all a part of my endurance training. You know, start off small and work your way up. Please go back to what you were doing. Damien, let’s fill these seats.

Valentine snaps his fingers and another former 4CW wrestler, Damien Blood, walks off up the stairs and out of the arena. Divyne, breathing heavily, stares Valentine down. Demanding an answer, demanding anything. Valentine lowers his arms and simultaneously drops his smile. He glares into Divyne’s eyes. His words dripping with anger.

Valentine: How dare you. How dare you lay your hands on me. How dare you march your fat ass in here and disrupt everything!? You listen to me, you little shit. This is my show. This is my time. I’m not worried about my title defense. This is my training regiment! You just waltzed your way into it. I’m fighting a guy I’ve beaten multiple times! He hit me with his hardest shot and I still have the title! And the other guy? A lucky Tag Team one off wanna be! There is nothing to worry about! Get the hell out of here!

Divyne: You call this training!? I think one of the guys I saw in line was 16! You’re not training, you’re making a sham of the whole idea of training! This is a publicity stunt. A cash grab! This is pathetic!

Valentine: I am the undisputed champion Jenna. People want to see me. I left Philadelphia years ago. Yet I set this all up and look at the response! It’s not only like I never left, I’m their hero! And why not grab a few bucks in the process?

Divyne: And whatever happened to that Make a Wish kid? You no showed a Make a Wish!! What “hero” does that!?

Valentine: I wrote him a letter! Besides he was all the way in Seattle, I’m not going to the armpit of the United States for that. And who’s gonna pay my expenses? How’d I get on that Make a Wish list any way? It was you, wasn’t it?

Divyne: Uck! I can’t believe what I’m hearing you...you...you monster! It’s all gone straight to your head and you had a massive head to begin with!

Valentine looks past Divyne and notices someone snapping pictures. He promptly side steps Divyne and starts posing. The photographer takes several shots and nods in thanks. She begins to walk away.

Valentine: Miss! Miss those aren’t free. It’s $29.99 a photo! Plus tax! You owe me $100! Julian! Get up and get that thief! NOW!

Divyne grabs Valentine by his open draw and forces him to look at her.

Divyne: Please stop this. You were always a piece of shit, but not this. Not only is all of this sickening, but if you don’t take this shit seriously. And get back in the goddamn gym and start actually training. Like before you even came back to 4CW. You’re going to lose it all and I know what will happen to you, if you lose. You will completely fall to pieces. White is getting better and better. He’s going to take you down one of these days. And you know why?

Valentine goes to speak but Divyne starts shouting. Valentine gives a look that conveys he’ll continue to listen if she calms down and lowers her voice. He looks nervously around the arena, which now starts to fill up with people.

Divyne: He’s hungry! You’ve been the hunter for a decade and a half. Now you are the hunted. Now I know that may seem cliché. But it’s true. And it’s never been more true in your case. You may be champion, but you are not the greatest champion. If you fuck this up, your “reign” with be nothing but a blip in the history books. Just look at Elfan. He dominated the Tag circuit. He was at the mountain top. But did he become complacent? No. He’s reaching for the stars. He aspires for more and he’s also a complete wild card in this match. There’s so much your dumb ass should be preparing for!

And for a moment. Just a split second. Valentine gets it. Everything Divyne has been spewing clicks. It nearly brings a tear to his eye. He sports a child like look at Divyne that could melt your heart. Divyne let’s go of his jaw and he grabs it. Then stretches it out, never breaking eye contact. He opens his mouth to speak. His voice squeaks at first.

Valentine: Jenna. I’ve known you for a long time. Too long. We’ve been through a lot together. What I can’t understand is…...what you’re doing with a television press pass. Because you've only a face for radio, you ugly twat.

Divyne’s arms drop and swing by her sides. She stands in shock for a moment and then reacts as if she were punched in the gut. She wipes away a tear and turns, slowly leaving the ring. She looks out and sees the seats full. And it hits her. She had him. He got it. She made a rare connection with him, snapping him out of his greedy, selfish, narcissistic mindset. But when he saw these seats filled, the attention he is getting, the trance she had him was broken. He sees nothing but fame and fortune. He doesn’t need friends, he needs lackeys. She can’t help him anymore. She exits the ring.

Divyne: When you fail, when you fall. I won’t be there to catch you. I won’t do this to myself anymore. You don’t deserve this, you don’t deserve me.

Valentine has already turned back to more interviewers and a mock official has now entered the ring. She begins walking away and catches eyes with Julian MagneZ, who is literally smoking a makeshift joint, sitting on the apron.

MagneZ: I tried to stop you. He’s as good as gone you know. He’s been gone. You should have just come along for the ride and enjoyed it while it lasts. You should take a bit of this.

MagneZ extends the joint to Divyne and she shoots him a look of disgust and keeps walking. MagneZ watches her leave and pills the joint back, taking a long hit. Divyne makes her way up the stairs to exit the arena. Several men in suits and a few police officers make their way down the stairs passing her. As everyone continues to fill into their seats, the first “competitor” makes his way into the ring as the interviewers make their leave. Valentine leans back in the corner as the official checks and speaks with the first opponent. A ring announcer enters, with a microphone in one hand and a piece of paper in the other. It’s actually the same guy shouting orders from outside with the line formation. The men with suits and police officers enter the ring and enter in discussion with him and Valentine. After several minutes, one of the men in a suit grabs the microphone.

Mr. Reynolds: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m sorry. Everyone listen closely, I’m Mr. Reynolds of the Shady Tree Philadelphia chapter permit commission committee. I also represent the Wells Fargo center and it’s trustees. This event that you have all paid money for is technically illegal. The Philadelphia Police Department is shutting everything down immediately! Please leave the arena in a calm and orderly fashion.

Jack Valentine quietly walks over to Julian MagenZ. He whispers

Valentine: Get my belt as quickly and quietly as humanly possib…...Are you fucking high right now!?

MagneZ starts to chuckle. Valentine backs away and rolls out of the ring. He walks toward his belt in the glass case. He fiddles with it, trying not to draw attention to himself.

Mr. Reynolds: If you wish to have a refund you’ll have to take that up with whoever you purchased these tickets from. This event has no permit on file and quite frankly I don’t know how they managed to get all this setup without anyone knowing. I apologize for the inconvenience.

Valentine can’t get the case open and starts to panic. He looks around and then pushes the case backwards. It slams into the ground and shatters loudly. All eyes in the arena are suddenly on Jack Valentine. He rips the belt out of the remaining casing and takes off down the ramp!

Mr. Reynolds: Hey! I wanna talk to you! Officers!

The police officers take off after Valentine, Julian MagneZ bursts into a fit of laughter, and Divyne takes one last look from the concourse.

The sound of the same button on the keyboard being hit slowly over and over again.

Click.

Click.

Click.

It intensifies.

Click. Click.

Click. Click. Click.

Click. CLICK. CLICK! CLICK!

A disembodied female voice shouts out from the darkness: Easy Jack! I only got one of those and it wasn’t cheap!

The voice is seemingly ignored as we see Jack Valentine seated at a desk with a laptop open in front of him. To Valentine’s left is a stack of various news articles such as The Press of Atlantic City newspaper, 4CW The Magazine, The Wrestling Observer News Letter, and more. To his right is a short glass with a brown substance oozing down the side. It is quickly replenished by Valentine’s right hand, as he holds a bottle of Johnny Walker & Sons King George V. He puts the now half empty bottle down on the desk and releases it from his hand about two inches from the desk. It slams into the desktop, spins on its edges, and leans backwards nearly tipping over, before settling.

YO! What the fuck!?

One large round ice cube is dropped in from above. The force causes some liquor to splash right out of the glass and onto the wooden desk. Valentine raises the whiskey to his face and takes a long drink and nearly finishes the freshly poured glass. We now see his battered face, starring a massive lower lip with black and blue around the surrounding area. He looks back at wherever the voice was coming from and sarcastically places the glass back on the desk with care. The entire room is nearly pitch black. Only the desk is lit by one dim light bulb lamp that is mysteriously missing the shade. Valentine reaches with his left hand and melting on some of the various articles is an ice pack. He grabs it and holds it up to his swollen mouth and returns to his web browsing.

“Unfit to carry the company into 2021. Downward treads. Unlikeable. Unfollowable. Unmarketable. Boring. Bland. Soft. Fake. One account from an undisclosed source backstage called him ‘Rude, standoffish, and even cruel. Takes no advice or constructive criticism from any of his peers. A true menace. Would sell out his own mother to hold onto title. Lives sad and alone in his own little world.’ Multiple wrestling personalities, whose names have been withheld, highly respected with years of experience have called his in ring performances dry, basic, strange, goofy, and stiff.”

Valentine glances over to the articles on the left and catches many of the main key words, before finishing his drink quickly. He rubs his eyes violently and turns away from the computer. When his eyes come back into focus, he sees the 4CW Championship title lying over on the bed, but propped upward. Valentine can almost see his reflection in the gold plate from across the room.

What are Siskel and Ebert saying about you now?

Valentine: That’s funny.

Valentine reaches with his drinking hand, down and onto the floor. He shuffles his hand around for a bit.

I got em. Heads up.

A pack of Marlboro Menthol Lights fly across the room and into Valentine’s lap. He picks his hand up off the floor and repositions himself in his seat. He looks around for a second.

Lighter?

Coming in hot.

The cigarette lighter flies towards Valentine’s head and he catches it in a defensive manner, even flinching. His eyes open and he sports an annoyed look.

Easy with that! It’s my grandfather’s.

I never took you as the sentimental type.

I’m not. I never even met the man. But it's not yours. Don’t peg it at me. Isn’t it time for you to leave? I left your tip on the dresser.

This is my place you stupid piece of….

The rest of the sentence is muffled as an ashtray comes flying towards Valentine. He’s too slow to even move, but luckily the throw is way short and explodes on the hardwood floor at his feet. He pulls up his legs to avoid any glass.

I actually needed that too…..

Valentine spins back around and lights the cigarette. After just scolding the young lady in the room, he tosses the lighter into the abyss. He takes a long drag of his cigarette and leans forward and back into his studies.

Just more and more junk. You see enough of this crap and you actually start to believe it yourself. But I know deep down it's all bullshit. People are complacent. Nothing has changed. My desire, work ethic, athleticism it’s all still there. I’m smarter than everyone else. I’m more ruthless. I’m still hungry, Not very many champions remain hungry once they become the hunted. I have my eye on bigger and better things, I didn’t just break the record for most days as champion, I annihilated it. That’s what separates me from the rest. The ceiling isn’t enough for me. I exploded right through it. They can’t beat me in the ring. They can’t take this title away from me, so they turn to other outlets. To try and attack my character. Perhaps to get management to step in. Pathetic.

I’m just better than everyone else….

What? Are we talking now?

Did I just say that out loud?

Valentine looks into the hand he’s holding his cigarette in and realizes that his hand is a fist and he has mangled it. He quickly releases it in fear of burning himself, but he also sports a whimsical look.

God damnit. I’m still angry.

Yeah ya did. Kinda came outta nowhere.

I….I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me.

I think I do. Your little haters are getting to you.

That’s because it’s bullshit!

Of course it is. That title is still around your waist.

You know what it is?

What’s that?

Jealousy. It’s nothing, but plain old jealousy. Hahah.

Relief creeps across Valentine’s face and he grins. The grin turns into a small chuckle. He exhales. Then everything drops and he reveals a stone cold blank stare.

I know it’s jealousy. But what about the rest of the world?

What happened? You were just doing so good.

Justice needs to be served. When I first got word of my monumental title defense at War, I was furious. I mean, I don’t even have to be pinned to lose my title. This is the first actual War match to be a 4CW Championship match!

Keep going.

But when you think about it. I got the Rumble in the Storm winner, the Ghost Gauntlet winner, the Lightning in the Bottle holder…...all automatic threats to my title. All going to cash in at some point, unless you’re Supreme. I buckle down and pull this out. I’ve eliminated a whole lotta trouble for myself and my reign. It’s a blessing in disguise.

Sounds easier said than done.

Luck will certainly have to be on my side. I mean, I’m easily the most talented competitor in the ring. There’s no denying that. Let’s break it down. McGroin, Cain, White, and Young. Firstly McGroin. He’s definitely taken a step up in my book, but let’s not get crazy here. He held this company’s lowest championship, outside of maybe the Hardcore title, for awhile. Commendable. He just recently lost it, but again did manage to score a massive victory at Revival for the Lightning in a Bottle. If my tag match with him proves anything, he was always more of a threat to me, if he cashed in AFTER I went through a hellacious match, like that cowardly crap Supreme pulled. But to cash himself into this 5-man War bout? Bold, but a regrettable mistake nonetheless.

How does that make you feel?

How does that make me feel? It makes me feel great! But there’s more. Like Tommy Young. Another former holder of the Custom Cup title and Tag Team Championship. Oodles of potential, but yet to realize it. Lucky draw in the Gauntlet…..dead last. Can’t say I’m overly impressed, but he got the job done against Ms. Phoenix. If you’re keeping score over there, I am 1-0 against Top Gun. And what did that win get me?

What did it get you Jack?

A Universal championship title shot at Revival. Where I handily defeated….

Valentine spins around in his chair to face the woman. He holds his hands out to her, for her to finish the sentence. There’s an uneasy long pause. He shakes his arms up and down.

]Who?

Brian White! Come on! The guy Tommy Young is an apprentice to? Not ringing any bells?

None of these names are ringing any bells to me, but you seem to be working something out. So please, keep going.

Valentine frowns and pauses. He shoots her an odd look and decides to continue.

Right. Another participant in this match is the Rumble in the Storm winner, Brian White. Does he have the size and strength advantage above all? Yes. But he can’t beat me. And believe me, he tried. I mopped the floor with The Freight Train. Wins at Revival, Rumble in the Storm, last year’s War. And in all sorts of matches. He and his protege hate me the most. But it's out of a secret respect. Also known as jealousy. If I can keep them in front of me, in my point of view at all times. They won’t be a problem. Yeah, yeah I know. Easier said than done.

You said this was a 5 man competition. So far including yourself….I only count 4.

Valentine shrugs and sighs.

That is correct. There’s one more. The one man who has been in nearly all the headlines. Mostly MY headlines. With his stupid Black Flame and stranger then fiction storylines with manikins and puppets. Rhys Cain used to be this company’s golden boy. A natural handoff after [chux]. Well. You know what they say about those who do not die a hero.

You seem to be enjoying this. You’re grinning. No. No, it’s now a full blown smile.

A creepy little smile has appeared on Valentine’s face as he talks about the new Rhys Cain. You can sense the pleasure Valentine is feeling with every passing second. He stares off as he continues.

When I first came back in August of 2018, I got into it with Rhys. I defeated him one on one and then I gathered some bimbos to take out his Black Flame. They were different then. He completely lost it and turned on everyone. I take full credit for being the final push that sent the face of 4CW spiraling into the demented lunatic he is today. But he still holds clout with the company and has found his way into my title defense! He’s a true wildcard.

Sounds like you’ve been successful against nearly all competitors in a one on one setting, but with all 5 of you together. Well, anything can happen. All the confidence in the world and perhaps even your most impressive performance, simply may not matter.

Valentine spins back around in the chair and scans the web articles. His eyebrows narrow, picking up on some of the words about his performance and title reign, that bother him most.

Dry. Boring. Bland. Basic. Unfit to carry the company.

Valentine frowns and clenches his teeth. Salvia can be seen sneaking out through his teeth and forming a small puddle on his lower lip. It threatens to spill over until Valentine suddenly smiles.

Jealousy. The most pathetic of the seven deadly sins.

You suddenly seem at peace.

Two potential up and coming stars, two former 4CW champions, two Hall of Famers, and i’ve got them all in one place. This is more than a title defense. This is a golden opportunity for me. I can eliminate all threats AND shut all my critics up in one foul swoop. I think that’s enough discussion for today. I am, as you said, at peace.

Jack Valentine stands up and walks out of the dimly lit room and towards a now visible door. He reaches out and grabs the door knob, turning it. He pulls the door open and takes a step through.

Oh and Jack.

Yea?

Next time we’ll do this with all the lights on. And you don’t leave “tips” for your therapist. You’ll be billed accordingly. Once Covid ends, they’ll be no more drinking during sessions and we’ll be at my office. Thank you, please close the door.

Valentine stops in his tracks and looks around frantically. His cheeks turn red with embarrassment and swiftly sneaks out into the hallway and cautiously closes the door behind him.

She’s jealous too….