Undertow (Raiden RP #2)
Jan 27, 2023 22:32:08 GMT -5
Mongo the Destroyer, mosler, and 2 more like this
Post by Raiden Ishimori on Jan 27, 2023 22:32:08 GMT -5
The cheering in The Gambler’s Den was raging and rampant among everyone in the bar section, the monitors displaying the closing moments of the main event encounter between Hunter Storms and Glimmergrin as the former stands atop one of the turnbuckles with the High Roller Championship now in hand, sweat dripping from his body. Throughout various pots in the bar, Daigo and Kingsley are seen exchanging high fives with those in attendance, celebrating their fellow Harbinger’s latest success story.
Kingsley: “First Grand Slam winner right there! That lad still has plenty of gas left in that tank of his!”
Daigo: “LET’S GOOOOO!”
All except for a number of Glimmergrin fans…and Raiden remain mostly quiet on the matter. The former for obvious reasons, but the latter seems relatively unfazed by the current celebrations despite his gaze being fixated on one of the televisions positioned above the center bar area. Rather than even make an attempt to revel in the celebrations alongside his fellow Harbingers, he instead turns his attention over to his phone in hand and begins taking to idly scrolling through various social media. Daigo comes over, taking him by the shoulders momentarily and shaking him in excitement but the gesture does little to grab his attention yet Chaos Tiger hardly notices it before continuing to parade around the establishment.
“STORMS! STORMS! STORMS!”
The chanting around the venue begins picking up, soon mixed with the popping of champagne bottles as Daigo now stands atop the counter double fisting uncorked bottles, spraying them across the crowd, further raising the jovial energy radiating in the room. As quiet as he normally was, Raiden took the opportunity to slip away from the festivities, maneuvering his way through the sea of bodies and to the doors of the bar, exiting out onto the patio section, noise fading behind him as the doors closed. He let out a sigh, fingers drumming against the side of his leg for a moment, only for his attention to fall on the sight of a familiar face in the form of Brayden Duncan. Evidently, a joint was in hand and lit as he sat slightly slumped in his current seat with his gaze aimlessly focused on the city. Making no attempt to mask his footsteps, Bone Cold approached the producer, taking one of the available seats at the table.
Brayden: “S’up…broseph.”
Raiden: “Night’s barely finished and already taking your smoke break?”
Brayden: “Mhm. It’s a night worth celebrating too. New champion, another accomplishment set for the big man, and history being made. Truth be told, I’m indifferent on the matter. After all, I’m just a producer.”
A small laugh escapes Brayden as he takes another drag. He turns to Raiden, offering the joint to the Harbinger but is met with a shake of the head. Shrugging, Brayden takes another hit from it, billowing a large wisp of smoke into the nighttime air.
Brayden: “Whatcha doin’ out here anyway, broseph? One of your boys won didn’t he? Ought to be celebrating with the others and poppin them bottles.”
Raiden: “....Didn’t really feel like it. Been having to think over some things as of late, and tonight has given me some more food for thought in regards to some upcoming challenges. You know…the X*Crown bit and what not.”
Brayden: “Yeeep. I’m well aware of that little venture you got going on. The man who still has yet to sit on that golden throne, to stick his flag in at the peak of Mt. Everest, the one man New England Revolution of X*Crown attempts…”
Raiden: “Did you really have to rub salt in the wound like that?”
Brayden: “I’m just making some observations, broseph.”
Bone Cold rolls his eyes at the remark, murmuring something in his native tongue that goes unheard by Brayden. He holds his gaze on the producer-slash-wrestler as he continues to smoke.
Raiden: “Brayden.”
Brayden: “Yeah what’s up?”
Raiden: “How are you content with things?”
Brayden: “Elaborate, broseph. You’re asking about a pretty broad spectrum with that kind of question.”
Raiden: “I mean with your place in the business. You don’t find yourself wanting?”
Brayden: “Eh…not really? I mean I have a job here and across the Atlantic in the UK, so there’s money in my pocket. Speaking of that, Daisuke says hi by the way. Found out he and I are actually colleagues there now, and there’s uh…what was his face….Takuma. Big burly dude, had a steely gaze. He said he knew you as well.”
Raiden (sighing): “Yeah…I’m quite familiar with both. I know you’re acquainted with Daisuke because of his relation to Daigo.”
Bone Cold shakes his head.
Raiden: “Getting off topic…”
Brayden: “Eh…it’s whatever to me, broseph. I just do what I do and get paid for my work. I’m definitely not like you or the others in terms of skill and technique but I can probably get there one day. I wasn’t a champion for nothing during my Mountain Dew riddled days in Champoon with Daigo there. Find it funny to this day how I achieved more success than him since he was a much more well-versed wrestler than I.”
Raiden: “Well Champoon wasn’t exactly conventional as many people know…”
Brayden: “Yeah but that shit was mad fun when it was around. I got to dress as a Star Wars guy and won back a long lost title in the process of it. Hoping to expand those accolades across the pond and establish myself as a more known guy in the business but we’ll just have to wait and see. For now, I got this job here to mostly be concerned about because of the commitments but the entire journey has been worthwhile.”
Brayden turns to The Harbinger, billowing more smoke out the corner of his mouth.
Brayden: “Wouldn’t you agree, Raiden?”
Raiden: “Agree with what?”
Brayden: “That the journey has been worthwhile. I mean, you’ve had it more rough than I ever will in my entire career most likely. The forever underdog, the man who had next to nothing in terms of repertoire and presence, and then over the years you’ve built yourself up as part of a group of other powerful people. Honestly, if you want someone to really relate to on this matter, I’d say talk to Hunter about it. He’s shared some of his stories with me on occasion on what his journey in the business has been like. Like many others, he didn’t exactly have the grandest start but he built himself up over the years and now look at him: one of the most dominant guys in SCCW, but rewind the clock about ten years, and the story is completely different. He actually used to get belittled a lot in his rookie years.”
Raiden (folding his arms over his chest): “With the way he carries himself, I don’t think many people would think that about him. You’d think he’s been like that since day one.”
Brayden: “Ohhh but he wasn’t, broseph. Trust me, you should sit with him before you take off for the night. Can probably get some good insight from him considering how long he’s been in the business.”
Raiden: “...I’ll look into it.”
Brayden simply raises his joint to him before turning his gaze back over to the city, taking another long drag. Raiden stands from his seat at the table, moving to make his way back into the venue. Opening the door again, the noise had died down considerably and a chunk of patrons had left for the evening, allowing for more walking room to work with. Daigo was still partying it up a bit with Kingsley as they were now sat at the bar, practically gulping down glass after glass of champagne. Meandering past a few other patrons and staff members, Raiden paced his way into the added backstage area of the venue. A few techs and other coordinators were pacing the corridors themselves that the doorway led into, evidently wrapping up any final bits and preparing to take everything down for the week. Brushing by a few of them, he ducked down into the hallway that led to the private locker room that had been established for him and his brothers-in-arms. The door leading into it was surprisingly left partially ajar, and not giving it much thought, Raiden pushed the door open, closing it behind him as he stood in the entryway. Turning to the main floor, Hunter was currently sitting in his designated locker alcove dressed in a pair of black sweatpants with a towel draped around his neck, phone in hand. The High Roller Championship sat on a nearby steel chair as he continued to idly scroll through his phone. Glancing up from it, Storms sat up straighter, even moving the championship from the chair to his lap and gesturing with his hand toward the chair.
Storms: “Thought you would’ve been in the bar with the others.”
Raiden (taking a seat): “I would’ve but…I’ve been doing some thinking regarding tonight.”
Storms: “Oh? What exactly has your brain worked up?”
Raiden: “Truth be told, Brayden actually pointed me out to you. Something about the journey you’ve had over the years in the business. More or less, your evolution would be another way of putting it.”
Storms: “Take it he spilled about my backstory a little bit?”
Raiden: “Vaguely. Said I might gain some insight if you’re willing to impart some of it.”
Storms: “Before I do…”
Raiden raises a brow at him as he leans back in the chair.
Storms: “Why?”
Raiden: “Why what?”
Storms: “Why the piqued interest?”
Raiden: “X*Crown. Uncertainty. Unsure if I’m content with where I’m at currently.”
Storms: “Even with all the accolades to your name as is? Including the Double Down belts we won half a year ago?”
Raiden: “Yeah.”
Storms lets out a laugh, adjusting his position in his seat.
Storms: “Well for one, you’re still hungry for more which is always a good thing. It’s good to keep that kind of mentality wherever you go. Doesn’t matter what people think of you as long as you get shit done, then that’s all that matters.”
He taps the side of his fist to his chest.
Storms: “To at least indulge Brayden for your sake, I was like him for a time. Hell, some of my earliest years I was more focused on being content with just having a spot somewhere on whatever roster so I could feed myself with the money shoveled at me. Sure, I eventually found success in GWA as you know, but for the longest time there….I wasn’t entirely happy. Management was the biggest issue, and that led to me scouring the country for other places to venture in.”
Raiden: “In turn leading you to…?”
Storms: “Pure Amusement Wrestling was the focal point for me for a number of weeks. Matter of fact, that’s where I met Cross, which who you know is literally at the other end of the Strip with Tapout. Had some big plans in store when we struck a deal to work together, but that place shut down before we could really swing for the fences. After that, I wound up in the UK with him for another brief spell and that ended rather…catastrophically. Not his fault, truth be told. People we were with just didn’t know what they wanted and we got forced to disband after a number of condition based losses.”
He shrugs, though Raiden blankly stares at him.
Raiden: “I’m failing to see the point in all of this…”
Storms: “That’s because I’m at least prefacing a timeline for you so you have context on how I got to where I am today.That whole change started back in GWA when I was at one of my lowest points in my career. Had one of the worst injuries in my career and young me was honestly debating what the fuck to do with myself since I had no direction, no real motivation to keep going, no nothing. That is until my friend Brewer offered up a guiding hand to help me back up onto my feet. He made me realize that it wasn’t the crowd’s energy or the support from them that made you do good, it was what you did in the ring with your own hands that brought about success. So, from that day forward, I pretty much said ‘Fuck the fans’ and followed Brewer’s ideology. Rediscovered my self-worth, became a World Champion a second time, and one of the best Tag Team Champions to grace that sinking ship until we all bailed.”
Raiden: “Why even stay in the first place?”
Storms: “Someone had to man it on a proper course, and the group he and I co-founded with our friend, Dexter, made us the only ones worthy of sitting at the top because we knew what greatness was and brought back a sense of prestige to that tainted and blighted promotion. After we all left, the place went under…if that tells you anything.”
Raiden simply nodded in turn, arms loosely folding over his chest.
Storms: “See Raiden, you can’t let yourself think you’re always just going to remain in the undertow. Not because it isn’t what everyone strives for in trying to get out of there, but it’s because it’s something that you yourself should always be focusing on. Do not think yourself below others because of their achievements. For all you know, you’re walking the exact same path they did. I had to go through tortuous years to find myself on solid ground as did Daigo, and as did Dylan with where he is now. Six years ago for him was a different story when he had next to nothing and now look at him: One of the best in the modern era of the Network. That’s not to say you aren’t one either. Out of all of us Harbingers, you’re the one who has reached for the brass ring the most despite the shortcomings and still keep pressing for more. I’d take a crack at it but personally, I just don’t care for it. Mainly because I don’t want to be another monkey dancing to Mongo’s tune.”
Raiden: “Thanks…I guess.”
Storms chuckles at the reaction, setting his phone aside.
Storms: “It’s a small jab but on a real note, keep your head up and look at it this way: Even if you fall short again, you know there’s always Sin City to romp around in. Win, lose, draw…you’ve already cemented your legacy as a solid wrestler in the few years you’ve been performing as one. Your tale is similar to mine and I think the parallels will continue to grow over time. For now though: Focus that hunger on getting the X*Crown, rep SCCW well, and tell Dylan he owes me a smoke sesh. Still need to link up with him from that Thunderdome occasion.”
Raiden (blinking): “The what now?”
Storms: “Story for another night. In the meantime, it’s getting late and we still got work to do. I know for a fact we’ll be competing next week and every bit of momentum heading into Supremacy is going to matter.”
Raiden (sighing): “Fair enough. I’ll see ya around in that case.”
Bone Cold stands from his seat, exchanging a momentary fist bump with his fellow Harbinger before taking his leave from the locker room. There was a lot to process and evaluate, but…there was at least one thing clearly in mind: rep the company well enough.
The shot then hastily fast forwards to next week to Raiden’s match against David Goon, both men covered in sweat as they continue to struggle for control. Deftly slipping past David’s guard, Raiden manages to capture him by the waist and lift him up onto his shoulder before flipping him around into a DDT that makes him bounce off the canvas. Quickly floating over, Raiden locks in his signature Last Dance Lullaby but the tall Goon manages to get a hand onto the rope to force the break almost immediately. Frustrated, Raiden relinquishes the hold and drags David back up, seemingly going for the same setup but instead he only holds David up vertically, dropping to his knees and spiking him on his head with a piledriver. Dropping back down on top of him, he quickly re-applies the LDL and this time it doesn’t take long for David to tap out to the hold. His theme music hits as he rolls up to his feet, resting against the ropes with heavy breath, staring down at the floor below. Jaxson Carnegie nudges him with a hand, handing him his half of the Double Down Championship which Raiden lazily drapes over his shoulder before taking his leave to a mix of cheers and boos from the attending crowd. Heading into the back, he’s soon greeted by his fellow Harbingers. The three fall into idle chatter as they walk, but a voice over comes over during their walk.
Raiden: “Victory…”
A brief montage plays, showing still images of Raiden’s first few victories in the Network: one where he stands over the limp body of Mulan Li with a wooden caber in hand, another is him pinning KITSUNE down for a decisive three count followed by images of him tapping out Kira Izumi and Rev. Thomas Reece, as well as his surprise roll-up victory over Bobby Barratt.
Raiden: “A state of euphoria, and one that so many compete for regardless of what’s at stake. With every tale of wins, however…there’s always a tale of losses accompanying it…”
Another montage begins to play, highlighting still images of the numerous losses Raiden has suffered since his debut, mostly dominated by the X*Crown losses incurred at Night of Champions IX, End of Days 2018 where he’s seen holding his head in defeat while Jack Diamond has his arm raised in victory by the referee, and the early exit he suffered four years ago at Supremacy 2019. Other images include his tag losses against the likes of The Icons and The Nihilists in AWF, followed by a still of a rather semi-disappointed look on his face from the Wildfire Tournament that saw him crash out early to lose the AWF Prestige Championship. The montage is capped off with a disgruntled looking Raiden tending to Daigo as Top of the Class celebrates another successful defense in the background in REIGN.
Raiden: “But it’s all just part of the process isn’t it? To burn in the hottest fires in order to become forged as one of the strongest, one of the most durable…and one of the most fearsome.”
Once again, another montage ensues, this time highlighting Raiden’s time as a Harbinger in J-ROK, showing the four standing tall in the ring with their malice filled expressions. The images that follow consist of the several punishing holds Jormungandr put various opponents through, as well as still shots of the Sons’ signature Ragnarok. The final image that appears in the current montage is that of Raiden, masked as Jormungandr, leaning against a wall in Kingsley’s office as Storms and Fenrir look over at him.
Raiden: “In order to get to that point, I had to wade my way through the undertow and underbelly of the XHF, contemplate a lot of things whilst at one of the lowest points in my career where it felt like my spark for wrestling had decided to snuff itself out. That, however, found itself reignited thanks to Kingsley’s encouragement and idea to have Daigo and I rebranded and to identify ourselves as something that we excelled at. I, The Harbinger of Pain, known for the torture I could put others through, and I brought it to Sin City after a two year hiatus from in-ring competition.”
Another set of images follows on the screen, displaying Raiden’s debut as Jormungandr in Sin City with his victory of Travis Monroe and the various forms of punishment he put others through. A few more sets highlight his and Daigo’s time in last year’s Saints & Sinners Cup, including their victory over The Immortals and The Academy before transitioning to the road he took with Storms in the tournament to crown the inaugural Double Down Champions including the pinfall over Jeff Gilliam, and the final still image being that of Jormungandr forcing a bloodied Roy Case to tap out at Second Horizon. The image fades away, now replaced with the still of Raiden’s unmasking in front of a stunned group of reporters.
Raiden: “People were shocked, surprised, some were even happy that I was back. I wasn’t the man I was previously when I first came to the Network, but there was no denying my image. My identity…I was, and still am, ‘Bone Cold’ Raiden Ishimori. That part never changed, and it never will. The Japanese talent who became the overnight success, the prospect from the Far East, and now stands as one of the most menacing forces in Sin City. A High Roller Champion, and a third of one of the longest reigning and current Double Down Champions. Still, STILL, I continue to make history in this Network and yet it feels like it goes unnoticed. It’s almost akin to my early days in the XHF when no one batted an eye at me because of my new guy status and what happened? I shocked a lot of people with my performances. The grit, the determination, the willingness to go the distance in an environment that I myself wasn’t entirely acquainted with. I grabbed that bull by its damn horns and rode it for miles to keep myself up in the limelight with all the top names in that setting. Evidently though…times have changed…dramatically so.”
The scene transitions from The Harbingers’ walk to the three of them now dressed in street clothes, lounging around in their private locker room. Daigo is evidently conversing about something with Storms, serious looks on their faces whilst Daigo is listing fingers one by one all while his fellow Harbinger nods along. In his own little alcove, Raiden sits by himself, hood somewhat pulled over his head as he leans slightly slumped against the wood behind him.
Raiden: “It matters little who the opponents are if I’m to be completely honest. These are the people that have proven themselves as the top dogs in their respective areas, regardless of their accomplishments as evidenced by a certain someone involved in this. Copycat, you know I’m referring to you. The man who puts up with Terry Bradshaw’s shit more than anyone barring the toilet humor he thinks is still relevant in today’s day and age. If you’re going to insult someone, be more creative about it than bland such as the two of you. The shenanigans…how childish. The dark horse of this matchup and still I can’t take him seriously in any way, shape, or form. If he wasn’t with Terry, then MAYBE I’d consider it but with that former chucklefuck I used to work for…I just can’t.”
Raiden leans forward from his spot as the muted conversation turns to him, Daigo seemingly running the entire conversation back to him whilst Storms leans back in his chair.
Raiden: “Dylan…Dylan….Dylan. Out in whatever god forsaken reaches of the world going through trials of who knows what. That much of a glutton for punishment are you? If you wanted to simply test yourself, you could’ve easily seen me rather than waste your breath with demons. I exist as The Harbinger of Pain for a reason. People want a real trial, they test their mettle against me. Zoran did it and I’ll give the old bastard credit for lasting the entirety of the match against the torture and torment I made him suffer with but shit be damned if I let the geezer slip past the bars another damn time. After almost nearly four years of being gone from the scene, I almost had it but four years since the last chaotic global championship match I was in, and I’ll make sure my claim is made known, heard, and witnessed. Bleed for the X*Crown like you do but the only use it will serve is payment, and tribute. Demons deserve to die, and you are one I will slay for the betterment of the Network. Your tyranny is not needed anymore, and it’s about time someone else took up the throne that isn’t someone who was associated with that pig of a man that was Jeffrey Viper.”
Raiden gives some small gestures with his hands to the other two as he begins conversing, pointing between the two and then listing three fingers on a hand. Storms rubs his chin in thought though Daigo’s eyes seem to light up in interest.
Raiden: “Steve….what is so Awesome about you? Couldn’t hold the X*Crown well enough against the current champ, you bungled your appearance on my turf while teamed with one of the best tag wrestlers, and not you treat everything as just a mere joke with this Hollywood act you’re putting on. You’re nothing but an act. I guess all your theatrics during the supershow make a lot more sense now when you’ve been reduced to nothing but short change as it currently stands. Hell, you’re in my shoes now with the way you’re repping things for REIGN when they’ve shut their doors indefinitely. Now you know the pain I had to go through as the lone soldier of SBW. Can you feel the weight of that burden resting on your shoulders? Know my pain, and know suffering well…because Supremacy is going to be a giant reminder why you never brush someone like me aside when you’re within limb breaking distance. You. Are. Beneath. Me.”
Daigo pulls out his phone, thumb scrolling along the screen while Storms folds his arms across his chest, evidently pondering whatever Raiden has mentioned. Bone Cold shrugs at the Harbinger of Destruction who lets out a long exhale. He looks up at the ceiling for a long moment, thinking things over. His head drops back down to eye level, giving a nod to Raiden.
Raiden: “Zoran…The Final Boss, a man of equal power. I still commend you for enduring the punishment I put you through but the fact you don’t even acknowledge me in that stupid little press conference of yours shows to me that you don’t see me on the same level as you. Even after making one another bleed, suffer, writhe, and gasp for air in hopes of being the victor but it never came for either of us. I can’t let that mistake occur again, not this time around. I don’t care if I have to break your good arm or bash your brains out until you’re dead. I want that damn X*Crown and I’ll paint it red with everyone’s blood. This is my time, my moment. No longer laying in the undertow, but sitting on the mountain top. Live with it.”
A few final nods are exchanged between the three Harbingers, followed by a shared fist bump between them. Daigo and Storms stand from their seats, taking their leave. Replacing them, Kingsley enters the frame to greet Raiden, offering him a fist bump in turn which Bone Cold returns. The two begin to enter a muted conversation of sorts, the camera gradually fading to black.
Kingsley: “First Grand Slam winner right there! That lad still has plenty of gas left in that tank of his!”
Daigo: “LET’S GOOOOO!”
All except for a number of Glimmergrin fans…and Raiden remain mostly quiet on the matter. The former for obvious reasons, but the latter seems relatively unfazed by the current celebrations despite his gaze being fixated on one of the televisions positioned above the center bar area. Rather than even make an attempt to revel in the celebrations alongside his fellow Harbingers, he instead turns his attention over to his phone in hand and begins taking to idly scrolling through various social media. Daigo comes over, taking him by the shoulders momentarily and shaking him in excitement but the gesture does little to grab his attention yet Chaos Tiger hardly notices it before continuing to parade around the establishment.
“STORMS! STORMS! STORMS!”
The chanting around the venue begins picking up, soon mixed with the popping of champagne bottles as Daigo now stands atop the counter double fisting uncorked bottles, spraying them across the crowd, further raising the jovial energy radiating in the room. As quiet as he normally was, Raiden took the opportunity to slip away from the festivities, maneuvering his way through the sea of bodies and to the doors of the bar, exiting out onto the patio section, noise fading behind him as the doors closed. He let out a sigh, fingers drumming against the side of his leg for a moment, only for his attention to fall on the sight of a familiar face in the form of Brayden Duncan. Evidently, a joint was in hand and lit as he sat slightly slumped in his current seat with his gaze aimlessly focused on the city. Making no attempt to mask his footsteps, Bone Cold approached the producer, taking one of the available seats at the table.
Brayden: “S’up…broseph.”
Raiden: “Night’s barely finished and already taking your smoke break?”
Brayden: “Mhm. It’s a night worth celebrating too. New champion, another accomplishment set for the big man, and history being made. Truth be told, I’m indifferent on the matter. After all, I’m just a producer.”
A small laugh escapes Brayden as he takes another drag. He turns to Raiden, offering the joint to the Harbinger but is met with a shake of the head. Shrugging, Brayden takes another hit from it, billowing a large wisp of smoke into the nighttime air.
Brayden: “Whatcha doin’ out here anyway, broseph? One of your boys won didn’t he? Ought to be celebrating with the others and poppin them bottles.”
Raiden: “....Didn’t really feel like it. Been having to think over some things as of late, and tonight has given me some more food for thought in regards to some upcoming challenges. You know…the X*Crown bit and what not.”
Brayden: “Yeeep. I’m well aware of that little venture you got going on. The man who still has yet to sit on that golden throne, to stick his flag in at the peak of Mt. Everest, the one man New England Revolution of X*Crown attempts…”
Raiden: “Did you really have to rub salt in the wound like that?”
Brayden: “I’m just making some observations, broseph.”
Bone Cold rolls his eyes at the remark, murmuring something in his native tongue that goes unheard by Brayden. He holds his gaze on the producer-slash-wrestler as he continues to smoke.
Raiden: “Brayden.”
Brayden: “Yeah what’s up?”
Raiden: “How are you content with things?”
Brayden: “Elaborate, broseph. You’re asking about a pretty broad spectrum with that kind of question.”
Raiden: “I mean with your place in the business. You don’t find yourself wanting?”
Brayden: “Eh…not really? I mean I have a job here and across the Atlantic in the UK, so there’s money in my pocket. Speaking of that, Daisuke says hi by the way. Found out he and I are actually colleagues there now, and there’s uh…what was his face….Takuma. Big burly dude, had a steely gaze. He said he knew you as well.”
Raiden (sighing): “Yeah…I’m quite familiar with both. I know you’re acquainted with Daisuke because of his relation to Daigo.”
Bone Cold shakes his head.
Raiden: “Getting off topic…”
Brayden: “Eh…it’s whatever to me, broseph. I just do what I do and get paid for my work. I’m definitely not like you or the others in terms of skill and technique but I can probably get there one day. I wasn’t a champion for nothing during my Mountain Dew riddled days in Champoon with Daigo there. Find it funny to this day how I achieved more success than him since he was a much more well-versed wrestler than I.”
Raiden: “Well Champoon wasn’t exactly conventional as many people know…”
Brayden: “Yeah but that shit was mad fun when it was around. I got to dress as a Star Wars guy and won back a long lost title in the process of it. Hoping to expand those accolades across the pond and establish myself as a more known guy in the business but we’ll just have to wait and see. For now, I got this job here to mostly be concerned about because of the commitments but the entire journey has been worthwhile.”
Brayden turns to The Harbinger, billowing more smoke out the corner of his mouth.
Brayden: “Wouldn’t you agree, Raiden?”
Raiden: “Agree with what?”
Brayden: “That the journey has been worthwhile. I mean, you’ve had it more rough than I ever will in my entire career most likely. The forever underdog, the man who had next to nothing in terms of repertoire and presence, and then over the years you’ve built yourself up as part of a group of other powerful people. Honestly, if you want someone to really relate to on this matter, I’d say talk to Hunter about it. He’s shared some of his stories with me on occasion on what his journey in the business has been like. Like many others, he didn’t exactly have the grandest start but he built himself up over the years and now look at him: one of the most dominant guys in SCCW, but rewind the clock about ten years, and the story is completely different. He actually used to get belittled a lot in his rookie years.”
Raiden (folding his arms over his chest): “With the way he carries himself, I don’t think many people would think that about him. You’d think he’s been like that since day one.”
Brayden: “Ohhh but he wasn’t, broseph. Trust me, you should sit with him before you take off for the night. Can probably get some good insight from him considering how long he’s been in the business.”
Raiden: “...I’ll look into it.”
Brayden simply raises his joint to him before turning his gaze back over to the city, taking another long drag. Raiden stands from his seat at the table, moving to make his way back into the venue. Opening the door again, the noise had died down considerably and a chunk of patrons had left for the evening, allowing for more walking room to work with. Daigo was still partying it up a bit with Kingsley as they were now sat at the bar, practically gulping down glass after glass of champagne. Meandering past a few other patrons and staff members, Raiden paced his way into the added backstage area of the venue. A few techs and other coordinators were pacing the corridors themselves that the doorway led into, evidently wrapping up any final bits and preparing to take everything down for the week. Brushing by a few of them, he ducked down into the hallway that led to the private locker room that had been established for him and his brothers-in-arms. The door leading into it was surprisingly left partially ajar, and not giving it much thought, Raiden pushed the door open, closing it behind him as he stood in the entryway. Turning to the main floor, Hunter was currently sitting in his designated locker alcove dressed in a pair of black sweatpants with a towel draped around his neck, phone in hand. The High Roller Championship sat on a nearby steel chair as he continued to idly scroll through his phone. Glancing up from it, Storms sat up straighter, even moving the championship from the chair to his lap and gesturing with his hand toward the chair.
Storms: “Thought you would’ve been in the bar with the others.”
Raiden (taking a seat): “I would’ve but…I’ve been doing some thinking regarding tonight.”
Storms: “Oh? What exactly has your brain worked up?”
Raiden: “Truth be told, Brayden actually pointed me out to you. Something about the journey you’ve had over the years in the business. More or less, your evolution would be another way of putting it.”
Storms: “Take it he spilled about my backstory a little bit?”
Raiden: “Vaguely. Said I might gain some insight if you’re willing to impart some of it.”
Storms: “Before I do…”
Raiden raises a brow at him as he leans back in the chair.
Storms: “Why?”
Raiden: “Why what?”
Storms: “Why the piqued interest?”
Raiden: “X*Crown. Uncertainty. Unsure if I’m content with where I’m at currently.”
Storms: “Even with all the accolades to your name as is? Including the Double Down belts we won half a year ago?”
Raiden: “Yeah.”
Storms lets out a laugh, adjusting his position in his seat.
Storms: “Well for one, you’re still hungry for more which is always a good thing. It’s good to keep that kind of mentality wherever you go. Doesn’t matter what people think of you as long as you get shit done, then that’s all that matters.”
He taps the side of his fist to his chest.
Storms: “To at least indulge Brayden for your sake, I was like him for a time. Hell, some of my earliest years I was more focused on being content with just having a spot somewhere on whatever roster so I could feed myself with the money shoveled at me. Sure, I eventually found success in GWA as you know, but for the longest time there….I wasn’t entirely happy. Management was the biggest issue, and that led to me scouring the country for other places to venture in.”
Raiden: “In turn leading you to…?”
Storms: “Pure Amusement Wrestling was the focal point for me for a number of weeks. Matter of fact, that’s where I met Cross, which who you know is literally at the other end of the Strip with Tapout. Had some big plans in store when we struck a deal to work together, but that place shut down before we could really swing for the fences. After that, I wound up in the UK with him for another brief spell and that ended rather…catastrophically. Not his fault, truth be told. People we were with just didn’t know what they wanted and we got forced to disband after a number of condition based losses.”
He shrugs, though Raiden blankly stares at him.
Raiden: “I’m failing to see the point in all of this…”
Storms: “That’s because I’m at least prefacing a timeline for you so you have context on how I got to where I am today.That whole change started back in GWA when I was at one of my lowest points in my career. Had one of the worst injuries in my career and young me was honestly debating what the fuck to do with myself since I had no direction, no real motivation to keep going, no nothing. That is until my friend Brewer offered up a guiding hand to help me back up onto my feet. He made me realize that it wasn’t the crowd’s energy or the support from them that made you do good, it was what you did in the ring with your own hands that brought about success. So, from that day forward, I pretty much said ‘Fuck the fans’ and followed Brewer’s ideology. Rediscovered my self-worth, became a World Champion a second time, and one of the best Tag Team Champions to grace that sinking ship until we all bailed.”
Raiden: “Why even stay in the first place?”
Storms: “Someone had to man it on a proper course, and the group he and I co-founded with our friend, Dexter, made us the only ones worthy of sitting at the top because we knew what greatness was and brought back a sense of prestige to that tainted and blighted promotion. After we all left, the place went under…if that tells you anything.”
Raiden simply nodded in turn, arms loosely folding over his chest.
Storms: “See Raiden, you can’t let yourself think you’re always just going to remain in the undertow. Not because it isn’t what everyone strives for in trying to get out of there, but it’s because it’s something that you yourself should always be focusing on. Do not think yourself below others because of their achievements. For all you know, you’re walking the exact same path they did. I had to go through tortuous years to find myself on solid ground as did Daigo, and as did Dylan with where he is now. Six years ago for him was a different story when he had next to nothing and now look at him: One of the best in the modern era of the Network. That’s not to say you aren’t one either. Out of all of us Harbingers, you’re the one who has reached for the brass ring the most despite the shortcomings and still keep pressing for more. I’d take a crack at it but personally, I just don’t care for it. Mainly because I don’t want to be another monkey dancing to Mongo’s tune.”
Raiden: “Thanks…I guess.”
Storms chuckles at the reaction, setting his phone aside.
Storms: “It’s a small jab but on a real note, keep your head up and look at it this way: Even if you fall short again, you know there’s always Sin City to romp around in. Win, lose, draw…you’ve already cemented your legacy as a solid wrestler in the few years you’ve been performing as one. Your tale is similar to mine and I think the parallels will continue to grow over time. For now though: Focus that hunger on getting the X*Crown, rep SCCW well, and tell Dylan he owes me a smoke sesh. Still need to link up with him from that Thunderdome occasion.”
Raiden (blinking): “The what now?”
Storms: “Story for another night. In the meantime, it’s getting late and we still got work to do. I know for a fact we’ll be competing next week and every bit of momentum heading into Supremacy is going to matter.”
Raiden (sighing): “Fair enough. I’ll see ya around in that case.”
Bone Cold stands from his seat, exchanging a momentary fist bump with his fellow Harbinger before taking his leave from the locker room. There was a lot to process and evaluate, but…there was at least one thing clearly in mind: rep the company well enough.
The shot then hastily fast forwards to next week to Raiden’s match against David Goon, both men covered in sweat as they continue to struggle for control. Deftly slipping past David’s guard, Raiden manages to capture him by the waist and lift him up onto his shoulder before flipping him around into a DDT that makes him bounce off the canvas. Quickly floating over, Raiden locks in his signature Last Dance Lullaby but the tall Goon manages to get a hand onto the rope to force the break almost immediately. Frustrated, Raiden relinquishes the hold and drags David back up, seemingly going for the same setup but instead he only holds David up vertically, dropping to his knees and spiking him on his head with a piledriver. Dropping back down on top of him, he quickly re-applies the LDL and this time it doesn’t take long for David to tap out to the hold. His theme music hits as he rolls up to his feet, resting against the ropes with heavy breath, staring down at the floor below. Jaxson Carnegie nudges him with a hand, handing him his half of the Double Down Championship which Raiden lazily drapes over his shoulder before taking his leave to a mix of cheers and boos from the attending crowd. Heading into the back, he’s soon greeted by his fellow Harbingers. The three fall into idle chatter as they walk, but a voice over comes over during their walk.
Raiden: “Victory…”
A brief montage plays, showing still images of Raiden’s first few victories in the Network: one where he stands over the limp body of Mulan Li with a wooden caber in hand, another is him pinning KITSUNE down for a decisive three count followed by images of him tapping out Kira Izumi and Rev. Thomas Reece, as well as his surprise roll-up victory over Bobby Barratt.
Raiden: “A state of euphoria, and one that so many compete for regardless of what’s at stake. With every tale of wins, however…there’s always a tale of losses accompanying it…”
Another montage begins to play, highlighting still images of the numerous losses Raiden has suffered since his debut, mostly dominated by the X*Crown losses incurred at Night of Champions IX, End of Days 2018 where he’s seen holding his head in defeat while Jack Diamond has his arm raised in victory by the referee, and the early exit he suffered four years ago at Supremacy 2019. Other images include his tag losses against the likes of The Icons and The Nihilists in AWF, followed by a still of a rather semi-disappointed look on his face from the Wildfire Tournament that saw him crash out early to lose the AWF Prestige Championship. The montage is capped off with a disgruntled looking Raiden tending to Daigo as Top of the Class celebrates another successful defense in the background in REIGN.
Raiden: “But it’s all just part of the process isn’t it? To burn in the hottest fires in order to become forged as one of the strongest, one of the most durable…and one of the most fearsome.”
Once again, another montage ensues, this time highlighting Raiden’s time as a Harbinger in J-ROK, showing the four standing tall in the ring with their malice filled expressions. The images that follow consist of the several punishing holds Jormungandr put various opponents through, as well as still shots of the Sons’ signature Ragnarok. The final image that appears in the current montage is that of Raiden, masked as Jormungandr, leaning against a wall in Kingsley’s office as Storms and Fenrir look over at him.
Raiden: “In order to get to that point, I had to wade my way through the undertow and underbelly of the XHF, contemplate a lot of things whilst at one of the lowest points in my career where it felt like my spark for wrestling had decided to snuff itself out. That, however, found itself reignited thanks to Kingsley’s encouragement and idea to have Daigo and I rebranded and to identify ourselves as something that we excelled at. I, The Harbinger of Pain, known for the torture I could put others through, and I brought it to Sin City after a two year hiatus from in-ring competition.”
Another set of images follows on the screen, displaying Raiden’s debut as Jormungandr in Sin City with his victory of Travis Monroe and the various forms of punishment he put others through. A few more sets highlight his and Daigo’s time in last year’s Saints & Sinners Cup, including their victory over The Immortals and The Academy before transitioning to the road he took with Storms in the tournament to crown the inaugural Double Down Champions including the pinfall over Jeff Gilliam, and the final still image being that of Jormungandr forcing a bloodied Roy Case to tap out at Second Horizon. The image fades away, now replaced with the still of Raiden’s unmasking in front of a stunned group of reporters.
Raiden: “People were shocked, surprised, some were even happy that I was back. I wasn’t the man I was previously when I first came to the Network, but there was no denying my image. My identity…I was, and still am, ‘Bone Cold’ Raiden Ishimori. That part never changed, and it never will. The Japanese talent who became the overnight success, the prospect from the Far East, and now stands as one of the most menacing forces in Sin City. A High Roller Champion, and a third of one of the longest reigning and current Double Down Champions. Still, STILL, I continue to make history in this Network and yet it feels like it goes unnoticed. It’s almost akin to my early days in the XHF when no one batted an eye at me because of my new guy status and what happened? I shocked a lot of people with my performances. The grit, the determination, the willingness to go the distance in an environment that I myself wasn’t entirely acquainted with. I grabbed that bull by its damn horns and rode it for miles to keep myself up in the limelight with all the top names in that setting. Evidently though…times have changed…dramatically so.”
The scene transitions from The Harbingers’ walk to the three of them now dressed in street clothes, lounging around in their private locker room. Daigo is evidently conversing about something with Storms, serious looks on their faces whilst Daigo is listing fingers one by one all while his fellow Harbinger nods along. In his own little alcove, Raiden sits by himself, hood somewhat pulled over his head as he leans slightly slumped against the wood behind him.
Raiden: “It matters little who the opponents are if I’m to be completely honest. These are the people that have proven themselves as the top dogs in their respective areas, regardless of their accomplishments as evidenced by a certain someone involved in this. Copycat, you know I’m referring to you. The man who puts up with Terry Bradshaw’s shit more than anyone barring the toilet humor he thinks is still relevant in today’s day and age. If you’re going to insult someone, be more creative about it than bland such as the two of you. The shenanigans…how childish. The dark horse of this matchup and still I can’t take him seriously in any way, shape, or form. If he wasn’t with Terry, then MAYBE I’d consider it but with that former chucklefuck I used to work for…I just can’t.”
Raiden leans forward from his spot as the muted conversation turns to him, Daigo seemingly running the entire conversation back to him whilst Storms leans back in his chair.
Raiden: “Dylan…Dylan….Dylan. Out in whatever god forsaken reaches of the world going through trials of who knows what. That much of a glutton for punishment are you? If you wanted to simply test yourself, you could’ve easily seen me rather than waste your breath with demons. I exist as The Harbinger of Pain for a reason. People want a real trial, they test their mettle against me. Zoran did it and I’ll give the old bastard credit for lasting the entirety of the match against the torture and torment I made him suffer with but shit be damned if I let the geezer slip past the bars another damn time. After almost nearly four years of being gone from the scene, I almost had it but four years since the last chaotic global championship match I was in, and I’ll make sure my claim is made known, heard, and witnessed. Bleed for the X*Crown like you do but the only use it will serve is payment, and tribute. Demons deserve to die, and you are one I will slay for the betterment of the Network. Your tyranny is not needed anymore, and it’s about time someone else took up the throne that isn’t someone who was associated with that pig of a man that was Jeffrey Viper.”
Raiden gives some small gestures with his hands to the other two as he begins conversing, pointing between the two and then listing three fingers on a hand. Storms rubs his chin in thought though Daigo’s eyes seem to light up in interest.
Raiden: “Steve….what is so Awesome about you? Couldn’t hold the X*Crown well enough against the current champ, you bungled your appearance on my turf while teamed with one of the best tag wrestlers, and not you treat everything as just a mere joke with this Hollywood act you’re putting on. You’re nothing but an act. I guess all your theatrics during the supershow make a lot more sense now when you’ve been reduced to nothing but short change as it currently stands. Hell, you’re in my shoes now with the way you’re repping things for REIGN when they’ve shut their doors indefinitely. Now you know the pain I had to go through as the lone soldier of SBW. Can you feel the weight of that burden resting on your shoulders? Know my pain, and know suffering well…because Supremacy is going to be a giant reminder why you never brush someone like me aside when you’re within limb breaking distance. You. Are. Beneath. Me.”
Daigo pulls out his phone, thumb scrolling along the screen while Storms folds his arms across his chest, evidently pondering whatever Raiden has mentioned. Bone Cold shrugs at the Harbinger of Destruction who lets out a long exhale. He looks up at the ceiling for a long moment, thinking things over. His head drops back down to eye level, giving a nod to Raiden.
Raiden: “Zoran…The Final Boss, a man of equal power. I still commend you for enduring the punishment I put you through but the fact you don’t even acknowledge me in that stupid little press conference of yours shows to me that you don’t see me on the same level as you. Even after making one another bleed, suffer, writhe, and gasp for air in hopes of being the victor but it never came for either of us. I can’t let that mistake occur again, not this time around. I don’t care if I have to break your good arm or bash your brains out until you’re dead. I want that damn X*Crown and I’ll paint it red with everyone’s blood. This is my time, my moment. No longer laying in the undertow, but sitting on the mountain top. Live with it.”
A few final nods are exchanged between the three Harbingers, followed by a shared fist bump between them. Daigo and Storms stand from their seats, taking their leave. Replacing them, Kingsley enters the frame to greet Raiden, offering him a fist bump in turn which Bone Cold returns. The two begin to enter a muted conversation of sorts, the camera gradually fading to black.
