Silence the Critics (X*Crown RP #6 for NoC)
Jul 26, 2018 18:16:55 GMT -5
Mongo the Destroyer likes this
Post by Raiden Ishimori on Jul 26, 2018 18:16:55 GMT -5
{On this Monday morning, the weather was a little bit cooler, surprisingly in the eighties which made the morning commute for most a bit more manageable compared to the hell that they had been slow cooked in last week. To only add to the nearly unbearable weather was the weight that sat upon Raiden’s shoulders while he was preparing himself inside the dressing room that had provided to him at Osaka-jo Hall. What he was readying himself for made him feel like he was about to address an entire nation which, in a way, was something he kinda was doing since Kohei had helped him in getting this sorted for him. From what his men had reported to him, nearly ten thousand had flocked to the small event. Ten. Thousand. Kohei certainly had his ways to help draw in attention for the young wrestler that would be giving a press conference he was barely ready for but time was short so it was best to get it out of the way the best he could.}
{Continuously, Raiden kept staring at himself in the mirror while he was struggling to ensure that his tie was straightened out but it proved to be futile as he constantly found himself to be untying and retying the tie until he had it perfect even though he had done it several times in the past, he couldn’t seem to get it right this morning. A knock came at the door but the Lone Wolf stays focused on the task that keeps his hands full.}
Raiden: “It’s open.”
{The door clicks, creaking open as one of Kohei’s men entered. Behind him there were other footsteps that followed, making Raiden pause in his flimsy efforts. Turning around, he was met by two unfamiliar faces. One was a man of that appeared to be of African-American with a buzzed hairstyle and a bit of facial hair around the mouth area whilst dressed in black dress pants and a white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up. A Rolex watch was also wrapped around his left wrist along with a silver necklace around his neck. The other man was dressed in a purple short sleeve button up with beige colored dress pants. Compared to the other man, his hairstyle was a bit more messy yet it was slicked back and had no accessories adorned on his body.}
Man: “These two claim to know you from Suzuki Blitz Wrestling. You recognize them?”
Raiden (hesitant): “No...but if they’re part of the company, let them stay.”
{The man bows in response, swiveling on his heels as he brushes past the two others before closing the door behind him as he exits the room.}
Raiden (sighing): “Right...and you gentlemen are?”
Soul Hunter: “Name’s Soul Hunter. Son of National Wrestling Council legend, Soul Shadow.”
Marcus Jackson: “Marcus Jackson. Brother of Charlotte Jackson and cousin of NWC legend, Avalon Britton. We recently signed on with SBW and we heard this was going on a few days ago so we wanted to swing by and check it out.”
Raiden: “So, what you’re saying is…”
Soul (raising a pumped fist): “We’re here to support you.”
Raiden (stunned): “Seriously?”
Marcus: “Why wouldn’t we come here to support someone that’s part of our company? Technically speaking, you are the number one guy of SBW if you’re the one being thrown into that wack ass match that the XHF thought of.”
Raiden: “That’s true and all, but…”
Soul: “But what?”
{Raiden sighs at the question.}
Raiden: “It’s doubtful that I’m gonna be successful in that match.”
{He leans against the near wall, folding his arms over his chest.}
Raiden: “I mean, just look at what I have to fucking put up with. Seven veterans in a four cage structure. I’m only a damn rookie for Christ’s sake having only wrestled two matches in Suzuki Blitz and hear I am with about a week to spare before I get put in that demonic structure they dubbed the Four Ring Circus.”
Soul: “To be fair though Raiden, some of the people out there do have you listed as being of the final four in that match. While you’re right and all about being in there against seven experienced people, you need to remember that some can’t really hang with their age in matches like this. Even though my own father was a great man, there were times that he really couldn’t hold up well due to the circumstances he was placed in, even if he was with his tag partner.”
Marcus: “Soul has a point. It’s one thing to still be in shape at one’s age but whether the body can still keep up is sometimes part of the question, ‘Can I beat this veteran by my own accord?’ and it’s really fifty-fifty. I think the oldest guy you’re facing in there is either in his thirties or forties from what we’ve scoped but no doubt you’ll do great regardless.”
Raiden: “I appreciate the words of encouragement, but I just--”
{Marcus slaps his chest with the back of his hand.}
Marcus: “Enough of that degrading talk, man. You’re a superstar in these people’s eyes and someone that they want to see succeed from their hometown. You may be a newbie like Hunt and I are but that shouldn’t mean shit. Look at it this way: What do YOU want people to remember you as? The man who fought life and limb inside that hellish structure of the Four Ring Circus and made not only his company proud, but his entire hometown as well? Or, do you want to be remembered as this city’s bitch who kept saying ‘Oh, I can’t do it’ because he constantly kept saying he was fresh out of training?”
Raiden: “I…”
Marcus: “Fuck the critics, Raiden. Stop listening to what it is that people say about you in the negative ways. If journalists talk shit about you, it’s because they want to generate buzz and get paid because they can’t find themselves a good story. Night of Champions is going to be, and will be, YOUR night. Not a night belonging to that twisted psycho Tabitha-”
Soul: “Or that old man, Rob.”
Marcus: “Or that masked clown, Anomoly.”
Soul: “Or that show off, Steve.”
Marcus: “Or--”
Raiden (annoyed): “Alright, I get it guys. I get it. Fuck the critics and any other bullshit that comes out of their mouths.”
Marcus (smiling): “That’s the spirit...Champ.”
{Patting the Lone Wolf on the shoulder, the door to the room swings wide open as Reina and Gempachi enter the room, both dressed in rather business like attire with Reina having her hair up in a bun this time while Gempachi is sporting a vintage style fedora to match his suit.}
Reina: “Raiden, you got about ten more minutes until you’re supposed to go out. You ready?”
Raiden: “Mostly, except for the tie part.”
Reina (sighing): “Ugh, c’mere, let me fix it up then.”
{Walking up to him, she starts undoing the work Raiden has done before starting from the top and with surprising fluidity, gets through the task with relative ease. Off to the side, Marcus quietly whistles at the sight of her while Soul’s attention is more on Gempachi as a look of curiosity crosses his face.}
Gempachi (noticing Soul): “These friends of yours, Raiden?”
Raiden: “Colleagues is the better term. They’re both from SBW.”
Gempachi: “I see. Well, it’s pleasure to meet you both. I’m Gempachi, one of Raiden’s long time friends here in Osaka.”
Soul: “I’m Hunter. The man next to me is my friend, Marcus.”
{Marcus is still engrossed in his observation of Reina as she finishes tying Raiden’s tie but is brought out of the trance with a slap on the arm from Soul.}
Soul: “Marcus, this is Gempachi.”
{Marcus extends a hand to Gempachi, with the older man accepting the gesture. Meanwhile, Reina tightly pulls through the last step of tying the tie, earning a groan from Raiden.}
Raiden: “I think it’s fine, Reina. You’re gonna choke me if you tighten it even more.”
Reina: “I’m just making it sure the knot will hold. Relax, will ya?”
Raiden: “Kind of hard to when you’re tugging me like this.”
{Some immature laughter comes from the Boston-Newark Connection, forcing Raiden to roll his eyes at the childish behavior while Reina performs one last pull on the tie to ensure it’s secure. Satisfied with her work, she lightly dusts off Raiden’s shoulders to try and give the his rugged appearance a sharper look.}
Reina: “That should do it. You nervous?”
Raiden (shrugging): “How can I not be?”
{Upon saying that, the same man from earlier rushes into the room, easily capturing the attention of the entire room.}
Man: “Raiden, Ushioda-san’s just about done giving his introduction. You just about ready?”
Raiden (nodding): “Yeah.”
Man: “Follow me then.”
Marcus: “Knock ‘em dead, man.”
Soul: “Remember you got us supporting you.”
{Raiden gives a simple nod to the group before following the man out into the hall. From afar, he’s just able to make out Kohei’s voice as it booms through the complex. The two briskly make their way down the corridor until they’re just out of view from the occupants in the building as Kohei speaks to them. Glancing, the man takes quick note of the two with a brief smile before returning his attention to the audience.}
Kohei: “Now, at this time, I’d like to introduce to all of you the the man who’s fighting for the X*Crown this Sunday. Osaka’s very own, ‘Bone Cold’ Raiden Ishimori!”
{Kohei moves off to the side, gesturing for Raiden to come forth as the applause starts to erupt the moment he steps into view with cameras flashing in volleys that nearly blind the rookie. His breathing quickly grows heavy as the nervousness starts to settle on his shoulders to the point that he’s practically shaking when he reaches the podium. Kohei gives him a pat on the back before distancing himself a bit more from the spotlight, sending everyone’s attention to Raiden.}
Raiden (quietly): “Um…”
{He lets out a nervous laugh, staring out into the ocean people that have lined the floor. Glancing, he looks past his right shoulder where his small group from earlier are hiding within the alcove, watching on with the same amount anticipation as the gathered crowd. Inhaling and exhaling, Raiden slowly composes his thoughts, readying himself to face the music.}
Raiden: “I just want to start off by saying that not once in the next fifty years would I see myself standing on a stage like this, let alone speak to an audience in the great Osaka-jo Hall. It truly is an honor to be up here but today isn’t about the mushy feelings about being here, it’s about the challenge that lies ahead.”
{A few of the press people in the front row snap some more pictures of Raiden as he continues on with his improvised speech.}
Raiden: “As I’m pretty most of you have been informed by this point, July 29th marks the ninth edition of Night of Champions for the XHF. The main event of that event of course, is this Four Ring Circus Match in order to crown a new champion to fill the vacancy left by Michael Storm after defeating Jack Diamond for it at AWF’s Clash of the Icons but due to a medical condition, Storm was rendered unable to successfully defend the belt by failing to defend it within the thirty days of his first defense. Due to this, Diamond took his spot as AWF’s representative for the match but I’ll get more into ‘The Jack Off of All Trades’ later...did I say that out loud? Huh, guess I did.”
{Some laughter emits from the crowd with even Ushioda trying to keep his composure on the stage.}
Raiden: “The first thing that I do really want to address is the fact that I’m still in disbelief about the opportunity that lies before me. I came into this business sometime closer to the midpoint of this year, not really sure of where I wanted to start. Whether it be here in the country or try an overseas excursion to see what the talent is like out in the States or wherever I could’ve possibly gone. Yet, I made the decision to start off here in Japan and signed on with Suzuki Blitz Wrestling as a means of starting this new living and gain experience with each passing show. Then, that’s when it struck.”
{He turns his head away from the mic, letting out a quick cough.}
Raiden: “The chance to be reach the mountaintop was thrown right into my lap after my debut match and initially, I had no clue whatsoever as to why I was the one chosen until after rewatching the footage and learning that the boss lady, Nausicaä, had decided that whoever won the match between me and my opponent at the time would be the one to represent the company at Night of Champions. Processing that was an absolute nightmare and it definitely made for some sleepless nights.”
Soul (whispering): “I can’t even imagine the pressure.”
Marcus: “No kidding. I think I’d find it just as equally hard to fall asleep with that in the back of my mind.”
Raiden: “To be gifted something like that when you’ve just stepped into the business is something you rarely see but I guess I just lucked out in the end. Even so, I kept asking myself in the days that followed, every night, ‘Do I really want to go through with this?’ Probably one of the toughest decisions to make but here I am talking about it now. Aside from that, I’ve been rather quiet on what I think about my opponents. How do I think I will fare against them? What do I think about their personalities? Do I think they’re X*Crown material?”
{He shakes his head at the questions.}
Raiden: “Rather than think over the first two, I kept asking myself the first one but from a critic’s perspective. Is a rookie like me considered X*Crown material? The answer to said question? I don’t know. That question will be answered in six days and then the critics themselves will either keep talking their heads off or be silenced for good.”
{The seriousness in Raiden’s voice starts to surge.}
Raiden: “I was never one to really be taken seriously. I mean, I started off as an average salaryman working at a medical office for just above adequate pay. How can you take a man seriously with a previous job title like that? You can’t. Up until now, I saw no need to push any limits or boundaries but it’s drawing closer to the time to step out of the comfort zone and embrace the hardships that the challenges ahead will bring. Whatever it is, I’m ready to put up with it.”
{He exhales a long-winded sigh.}
Raiden: “Any questions before I continue on? Don’t want it to sound like I’m ranting about needless crap.”
{One of the media, a rather average looking man, raises his hand.}
Raiden (pointing): “You, right there.”
Journalist: “You mentioned earlier about discussing your feelings on your opponents involved in the match, I was just wondering if that was going to be the next topic of discussion.”
Raiden (nodding): “Yeah, I was about to get there.”
{He clears his throat once more.}
Raiden: “Seven other veterans will also be entangled in that steel mess, each of course with their own unique qualities and whatever else is interesting about them. For example, there’s the lone woman in the match, Zolothatch. Hopefully, I pronounced that right but whatever. This woman is nothing short of psychotic if you ask me. How she’s been allowed into this match, let alone wrestle period, is beyond my knowledge but it’s probably one of the scarier things in this match aside from the multiple cages that will be involved. I think everyone would be each other favor by taking that abomination of a woman out as quick as they can because God knows I don’t want to be maimed beyond recognition.”
{His fingers drum against the podium, contemplating on who to talk about next.}
Raiden: “I guess since he was the first man competitor that I mentioned, I’ll bring Jack Diamond back up. Former X*Crown Champion himself and undoubtedly one of the best that AWF has to offer from their company, if not the best since he’s the one involved in the match to reclaim what was once his. Can you blame someone who probably is filled to the brim with rage after losing the most prized possession in the XHF and now having to brawl with seven others in an attempt to win it back? I can’t blame him. His entire career at this point is probably just revolving around the championship at this point, something else I can’t really blame him for. Even so, as a former champion himself, his time has come and gone as being the title holder, making way for others who aspire to be the X*Crown champion themselves. Something I aspire to be, something I want to become. If it means I have to cut a diamond, then so be it. I’m willing to get Diamond’s blood on my hands but let it be known that it was because I had to beat him, I had to pummel him, in order to claim that illustrious championship. The deck is certainly stacked against him, something he’s probably not used to having but oh well, Jackie Boy. Having fun plucking the correct card from the deck, you Jack Off.”
{Some more laughter erupts from the crowd.}
Raiden: “I guess staying in the section of J names, let’s talk about Jackson Steele. The former porn star turned wrestler...not the first time I’ve seen one of those kinds of career shifts. Shout out to Ai Moe on that one. Steele...what is there really to say about him aside from the fact he’s nothing but scum? A man who’s practically wanking off AXW’s V in order to be on the guy’s good side, more or less becoming V’s bitch. Yeah, I said that. Deal with it, live with it. We all know the only reason why you got into this match was because you did V a few favors, you kiss ass. That man is nothing but the literal definition of trash and what do you do with trash? You take it out like any person would which is exactly what I’m going to do to a low life like Jackson.”
Marcus (quietly): “He’s gradually getting loose with his feelings.”
Soul: “Hey, at least the journalists are getting paid for it.”
Marcus: “Yeah, you’re right on that.”
Raiden: “The next two I can fire off are Anomoly and Rob Riot. Two men shrouded in mystery themselves, except one believes he’s above everyone else while the other is just...strange, to say the least. Anomoly is certainly no man to take lightly as he was undefeated...for a time, until Curtis D. Kanyon buried his streak and took the man’s championship as well, which, after seeing the footage of that, was pretty funny. To be fair, that loss probably spelled bad news for the masked man, predicted his future, predicting the fact that he never will be the best of the best, that he won’t win the X*Crown. Why? Because I’m going to be the man to stop him and everyone else, including Rob, who probably isn’t worth more than a cup of coffee by this point, so...fuck him.”
Marcus (stunned): “Daaamn.”
Raiden: “That just leaves...Hardcore Harry and Steve Awesome then. Probably the two faces I’m most unfamiliar with although I’ll probably get hate for not knowing who Harry is but anyways, it’s just two more legends that have managed their way into the title picture. Harry...the X*Crown legend himself who still had the championship when the XHF re-opened, a veteran of the squared circle, but like some, I think it’s best if he just hangs the boots up while he can. A legend he is but even legends need rest and Harry if you’re watching this, I beg you quit the act while you can before I give you something to put you out of indefinite action. A rookie I am but I’m as fierce as any other young blood in this organization, believe that, because July 29th is the day that your career comes to a halt. Now, Steve...okay, hang on, why has a former movie star been allowed to wrestle? Who got bribed? Whatever, this is probably the one person I could care less for out of everybody in this. Why should I take someone who’s been out of this place for who knows how long seriously? If his ring skills are up to par still, then I guess the so-called legend will be sent home with his tail between his legs.”
{Raiden glances around briefly before turning his attention to the journalists in the press section.}
Raiden (cocking a brow): “Any of you got something to ask?”
{The same man from earlier raises his hand.}
Raiden: “Shoot.”
Journalist: “While I’m pretty sure most of us understand your feelings on the match now but the one thing I want to really know is what reason, or reasons, are you fighting for? Obviously, you’re the rep for Suzuki Blitz Wrestling but what purpose are you serving?”
{A wave of silence brushed over Raiden as he let the question sink in. Looking over his shoulder, he makes eye contact with Kohei, who only gives a half-shrug in response. Looking to his other side, he makes eye contact with the others as if asking for some kind of answer but they all just shake their heads in response. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he lets out another sigh before continuing on.}
Raiden: “There...are several reasons that are motivating me to fight. Some personal, some business. As the representative for SBW, it’s my job to wrestle to the best of my ability in this match and help the company gain some exposure in order to draw in more talent. That’s perhaps the main business reason and of course the secondary reason being that I want to become the champion because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to be the top champion in the organization? Everyone’s in it to be number one but to be number one, you have to be the best and silence the critics.”
{His throat tightens at the next thought.}
Raiden: “The other reason I have for fighting in this is more close to my heart. A few years back, some friends of mine unfortunately passed in an untimely accident and when that happened, I found myself alone, lost in a world where I became paranoid to the point that I moved back into my parents’ home in Kyoto out of security. It took me about a solid year and a half to muster the courage to move back here but it took me another four years to actually confront the past and get the answers that I wanted, no, needed from those who also knew them personally as if they were family.”
{He glances over at Kohei, who gives a strong silent nod in agreement.}
Raiden: “For me, Night of Champions isn’t about fighting for the company I’m part of. It’s about fighting for those friends of mine and those who helped me overcome the obstacle of facing the past. My friends Reina, Gempachi, and Ebisawa all helped conquer the demon that had been gnawing at my insides and finally put everything to rest. If it weren’t for them, I’d probably be just as paranoid as I was back then going into this match. Yet, here I stand, telling all of you, that I, Raiden Ishimori, am prepared to face this challenge of valor, courage, determination, and willpower to the fullest extent. Even if I lose that match, I’m not hanging my head low, it’s going to be held up high when I return to Osaka because I know I’ve done many people proud. July 29th, Night of Champions, is the night that I silence all the critics, and prove to everyone that a rookie like me, has as much fight in him as any other veteran or legend in this goddamn business.”
{Thunderous applause immediately erupts as Raiden steps to the side of the podium before bowing to the crowd out of thanks. Kohei goes back up to the podium himself while Raiden walks offstage, tears visibly being held back as he rejoins his companions.}
Marcus: “Hey don’t be crying on us now, Raiden. You save those tears for when you take that strap.”
Soul: “Show ‘em who’s boss!”
{Raiden simply nods in approval before brushing past the group to return to his dressing room. Over the course of the past month, there had been a lot of shit he had to put up with but thankfully he made it. All that was left to do was catch the flight to Minneapolis and prepare to fight for his life in the Four Ring Circus.}
{Continuously, Raiden kept staring at himself in the mirror while he was struggling to ensure that his tie was straightened out but it proved to be futile as he constantly found himself to be untying and retying the tie until he had it perfect even though he had done it several times in the past, he couldn’t seem to get it right this morning. A knock came at the door but the Lone Wolf stays focused on the task that keeps his hands full.}
Raiden: “It’s open.”
{The door clicks, creaking open as one of Kohei’s men entered. Behind him there were other footsteps that followed, making Raiden pause in his flimsy efforts. Turning around, he was met by two unfamiliar faces. One was a man of that appeared to be of African-American with a buzzed hairstyle and a bit of facial hair around the mouth area whilst dressed in black dress pants and a white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up. A Rolex watch was also wrapped around his left wrist along with a silver necklace around his neck. The other man was dressed in a purple short sleeve button up with beige colored dress pants. Compared to the other man, his hairstyle was a bit more messy yet it was slicked back and had no accessories adorned on his body.}
Man: “These two claim to know you from Suzuki Blitz Wrestling. You recognize them?”
Raiden (hesitant): “No...but if they’re part of the company, let them stay.”
{The man bows in response, swiveling on his heels as he brushes past the two others before closing the door behind him as he exits the room.}
Raiden (sighing): “Right...and you gentlemen are?”
Soul Hunter: “Name’s Soul Hunter. Son of National Wrestling Council legend, Soul Shadow.”
Marcus Jackson: “Marcus Jackson. Brother of Charlotte Jackson and cousin of NWC legend, Avalon Britton. We recently signed on with SBW and we heard this was going on a few days ago so we wanted to swing by and check it out.”
Raiden: “So, what you’re saying is…”
Soul (raising a pumped fist): “We’re here to support you.”
Raiden (stunned): “Seriously?”
Marcus: “Why wouldn’t we come here to support someone that’s part of our company? Technically speaking, you are the number one guy of SBW if you’re the one being thrown into that wack ass match that the XHF thought of.”
Raiden: “That’s true and all, but…”
Soul: “But what?”
{Raiden sighs at the question.}
Raiden: “It’s doubtful that I’m gonna be successful in that match.”
{He leans against the near wall, folding his arms over his chest.}
Raiden: “I mean, just look at what I have to fucking put up with. Seven veterans in a four cage structure. I’m only a damn rookie for Christ’s sake having only wrestled two matches in Suzuki Blitz and hear I am with about a week to spare before I get put in that demonic structure they dubbed the Four Ring Circus.”
Soul: “To be fair though Raiden, some of the people out there do have you listed as being of the final four in that match. While you’re right and all about being in there against seven experienced people, you need to remember that some can’t really hang with their age in matches like this. Even though my own father was a great man, there were times that he really couldn’t hold up well due to the circumstances he was placed in, even if he was with his tag partner.”
Marcus: “Soul has a point. It’s one thing to still be in shape at one’s age but whether the body can still keep up is sometimes part of the question, ‘Can I beat this veteran by my own accord?’ and it’s really fifty-fifty. I think the oldest guy you’re facing in there is either in his thirties or forties from what we’ve scoped but no doubt you’ll do great regardless.”
Raiden: “I appreciate the words of encouragement, but I just--”
{Marcus slaps his chest with the back of his hand.}
Marcus: “Enough of that degrading talk, man. You’re a superstar in these people’s eyes and someone that they want to see succeed from their hometown. You may be a newbie like Hunt and I are but that shouldn’t mean shit. Look at it this way: What do YOU want people to remember you as? The man who fought life and limb inside that hellish structure of the Four Ring Circus and made not only his company proud, but his entire hometown as well? Or, do you want to be remembered as this city’s bitch who kept saying ‘Oh, I can’t do it’ because he constantly kept saying he was fresh out of training?”
Raiden: “I…”
Marcus: “Fuck the critics, Raiden. Stop listening to what it is that people say about you in the negative ways. If journalists talk shit about you, it’s because they want to generate buzz and get paid because they can’t find themselves a good story. Night of Champions is going to be, and will be, YOUR night. Not a night belonging to that twisted psycho Tabitha-”
Soul: “Or that old man, Rob.”
Marcus: “Or that masked clown, Anomoly.”
Soul: “Or that show off, Steve.”
Marcus: “Or--”
Raiden (annoyed): “Alright, I get it guys. I get it. Fuck the critics and any other bullshit that comes out of their mouths.”
Marcus (smiling): “That’s the spirit...Champ.”
{Patting the Lone Wolf on the shoulder, the door to the room swings wide open as Reina and Gempachi enter the room, both dressed in rather business like attire with Reina having her hair up in a bun this time while Gempachi is sporting a vintage style fedora to match his suit.}
Reina: “Raiden, you got about ten more minutes until you’re supposed to go out. You ready?”
Raiden: “Mostly, except for the tie part.”
Reina (sighing): “Ugh, c’mere, let me fix it up then.”
{Walking up to him, she starts undoing the work Raiden has done before starting from the top and with surprising fluidity, gets through the task with relative ease. Off to the side, Marcus quietly whistles at the sight of her while Soul’s attention is more on Gempachi as a look of curiosity crosses his face.}
Gempachi (noticing Soul): “These friends of yours, Raiden?”
Raiden: “Colleagues is the better term. They’re both from SBW.”
Gempachi: “I see. Well, it’s pleasure to meet you both. I’m Gempachi, one of Raiden’s long time friends here in Osaka.”
Soul: “I’m Hunter. The man next to me is my friend, Marcus.”
{Marcus is still engrossed in his observation of Reina as she finishes tying Raiden’s tie but is brought out of the trance with a slap on the arm from Soul.}
Soul: “Marcus, this is Gempachi.”
{Marcus extends a hand to Gempachi, with the older man accepting the gesture. Meanwhile, Reina tightly pulls through the last step of tying the tie, earning a groan from Raiden.}
Raiden: “I think it’s fine, Reina. You’re gonna choke me if you tighten it even more.”
Reina: “I’m just making it sure the knot will hold. Relax, will ya?”
Raiden: “Kind of hard to when you’re tugging me like this.”
{Some immature laughter comes from the Boston-Newark Connection, forcing Raiden to roll his eyes at the childish behavior while Reina performs one last pull on the tie to ensure it’s secure. Satisfied with her work, she lightly dusts off Raiden’s shoulders to try and give the his rugged appearance a sharper look.}
Reina: “That should do it. You nervous?”
Raiden (shrugging): “How can I not be?”
{Upon saying that, the same man from earlier rushes into the room, easily capturing the attention of the entire room.}
Man: “Raiden, Ushioda-san’s just about done giving his introduction. You just about ready?”
Raiden (nodding): “Yeah.”
Man: “Follow me then.”
Marcus: “Knock ‘em dead, man.”
Soul: “Remember you got us supporting you.”
{Raiden gives a simple nod to the group before following the man out into the hall. From afar, he’s just able to make out Kohei’s voice as it booms through the complex. The two briskly make their way down the corridor until they’re just out of view from the occupants in the building as Kohei speaks to them. Glancing, the man takes quick note of the two with a brief smile before returning his attention to the audience.}
Kohei: “Now, at this time, I’d like to introduce to all of you the the man who’s fighting for the X*Crown this Sunday. Osaka’s very own, ‘Bone Cold’ Raiden Ishimori!”
{Kohei moves off to the side, gesturing for Raiden to come forth as the applause starts to erupt the moment he steps into view with cameras flashing in volleys that nearly blind the rookie. His breathing quickly grows heavy as the nervousness starts to settle on his shoulders to the point that he’s practically shaking when he reaches the podium. Kohei gives him a pat on the back before distancing himself a bit more from the spotlight, sending everyone’s attention to Raiden.}
Raiden (quietly): “Um…”
{He lets out a nervous laugh, staring out into the ocean people that have lined the floor. Glancing, he looks past his right shoulder where his small group from earlier are hiding within the alcove, watching on with the same amount anticipation as the gathered crowd. Inhaling and exhaling, Raiden slowly composes his thoughts, readying himself to face the music.}
Raiden: “I just want to start off by saying that not once in the next fifty years would I see myself standing on a stage like this, let alone speak to an audience in the great Osaka-jo Hall. It truly is an honor to be up here but today isn’t about the mushy feelings about being here, it’s about the challenge that lies ahead.”
{A few of the press people in the front row snap some more pictures of Raiden as he continues on with his improvised speech.}
Raiden: “As I’m pretty most of you have been informed by this point, July 29th marks the ninth edition of Night of Champions for the XHF. The main event of that event of course, is this Four Ring Circus Match in order to crown a new champion to fill the vacancy left by Michael Storm after defeating Jack Diamond for it at AWF’s Clash of the Icons but due to a medical condition, Storm was rendered unable to successfully defend the belt by failing to defend it within the thirty days of his first defense. Due to this, Diamond took his spot as AWF’s representative for the match but I’ll get more into ‘The Jack Off of All Trades’ later...did I say that out loud? Huh, guess I did.”
{Some laughter emits from the crowd with even Ushioda trying to keep his composure on the stage.}
Raiden: “The first thing that I do really want to address is the fact that I’m still in disbelief about the opportunity that lies before me. I came into this business sometime closer to the midpoint of this year, not really sure of where I wanted to start. Whether it be here in the country or try an overseas excursion to see what the talent is like out in the States or wherever I could’ve possibly gone. Yet, I made the decision to start off here in Japan and signed on with Suzuki Blitz Wrestling as a means of starting this new living and gain experience with each passing show. Then, that’s when it struck.”
{He turns his head away from the mic, letting out a quick cough.}
Raiden: “The chance to be reach the mountaintop was thrown right into my lap after my debut match and initially, I had no clue whatsoever as to why I was the one chosen until after rewatching the footage and learning that the boss lady, Nausicaä, had decided that whoever won the match between me and my opponent at the time would be the one to represent the company at Night of Champions. Processing that was an absolute nightmare and it definitely made for some sleepless nights.”
Soul (whispering): “I can’t even imagine the pressure.”
Marcus: “No kidding. I think I’d find it just as equally hard to fall asleep with that in the back of my mind.”
Raiden: “To be gifted something like that when you’ve just stepped into the business is something you rarely see but I guess I just lucked out in the end. Even so, I kept asking myself in the days that followed, every night, ‘Do I really want to go through with this?’ Probably one of the toughest decisions to make but here I am talking about it now. Aside from that, I’ve been rather quiet on what I think about my opponents. How do I think I will fare against them? What do I think about their personalities? Do I think they’re X*Crown material?”
{He shakes his head at the questions.}
Raiden: “Rather than think over the first two, I kept asking myself the first one but from a critic’s perspective. Is a rookie like me considered X*Crown material? The answer to said question? I don’t know. That question will be answered in six days and then the critics themselves will either keep talking their heads off or be silenced for good.”
{The seriousness in Raiden’s voice starts to surge.}
Raiden: “I was never one to really be taken seriously. I mean, I started off as an average salaryman working at a medical office for just above adequate pay. How can you take a man seriously with a previous job title like that? You can’t. Up until now, I saw no need to push any limits or boundaries but it’s drawing closer to the time to step out of the comfort zone and embrace the hardships that the challenges ahead will bring. Whatever it is, I’m ready to put up with it.”
{He exhales a long-winded sigh.}
Raiden: “Any questions before I continue on? Don’t want it to sound like I’m ranting about needless crap.”
{One of the media, a rather average looking man, raises his hand.}
Raiden (pointing): “You, right there.”
Journalist: “You mentioned earlier about discussing your feelings on your opponents involved in the match, I was just wondering if that was going to be the next topic of discussion.”
Raiden (nodding): “Yeah, I was about to get there.”
{He clears his throat once more.}
Raiden: “Seven other veterans will also be entangled in that steel mess, each of course with their own unique qualities and whatever else is interesting about them. For example, there’s the lone woman in the match, Zolothatch. Hopefully, I pronounced that right but whatever. This woman is nothing short of psychotic if you ask me. How she’s been allowed into this match, let alone wrestle period, is beyond my knowledge but it’s probably one of the scarier things in this match aside from the multiple cages that will be involved. I think everyone would be each other favor by taking that abomination of a woman out as quick as they can because God knows I don’t want to be maimed beyond recognition.”
{His fingers drum against the podium, contemplating on who to talk about next.}
Raiden: “I guess since he was the first man competitor that I mentioned, I’ll bring Jack Diamond back up. Former X*Crown Champion himself and undoubtedly one of the best that AWF has to offer from their company, if not the best since he’s the one involved in the match to reclaim what was once his. Can you blame someone who probably is filled to the brim with rage after losing the most prized possession in the XHF and now having to brawl with seven others in an attempt to win it back? I can’t blame him. His entire career at this point is probably just revolving around the championship at this point, something else I can’t really blame him for. Even so, as a former champion himself, his time has come and gone as being the title holder, making way for others who aspire to be the X*Crown champion themselves. Something I aspire to be, something I want to become. If it means I have to cut a diamond, then so be it. I’m willing to get Diamond’s blood on my hands but let it be known that it was because I had to beat him, I had to pummel him, in order to claim that illustrious championship. The deck is certainly stacked against him, something he’s probably not used to having but oh well, Jackie Boy. Having fun plucking the correct card from the deck, you Jack Off.”
{Some more laughter erupts from the crowd.}
Raiden: “I guess staying in the section of J names, let’s talk about Jackson Steele. The former porn star turned wrestler...not the first time I’ve seen one of those kinds of career shifts. Shout out to Ai Moe on that one. Steele...what is there really to say about him aside from the fact he’s nothing but scum? A man who’s practically wanking off AXW’s V in order to be on the guy’s good side, more or less becoming V’s bitch. Yeah, I said that. Deal with it, live with it. We all know the only reason why you got into this match was because you did V a few favors, you kiss ass. That man is nothing but the literal definition of trash and what do you do with trash? You take it out like any person would which is exactly what I’m going to do to a low life like Jackson.”
Marcus (quietly): “He’s gradually getting loose with his feelings.”
Soul: “Hey, at least the journalists are getting paid for it.”
Marcus: “Yeah, you’re right on that.”
Raiden: “The next two I can fire off are Anomoly and Rob Riot. Two men shrouded in mystery themselves, except one believes he’s above everyone else while the other is just...strange, to say the least. Anomoly is certainly no man to take lightly as he was undefeated...for a time, until Curtis D. Kanyon buried his streak and took the man’s championship as well, which, after seeing the footage of that, was pretty funny. To be fair, that loss probably spelled bad news for the masked man, predicted his future, predicting the fact that he never will be the best of the best, that he won’t win the X*Crown. Why? Because I’m going to be the man to stop him and everyone else, including Rob, who probably isn’t worth more than a cup of coffee by this point, so...fuck him.”
Marcus (stunned): “Daaamn.”
Raiden: “That just leaves...Hardcore Harry and Steve Awesome then. Probably the two faces I’m most unfamiliar with although I’ll probably get hate for not knowing who Harry is but anyways, it’s just two more legends that have managed their way into the title picture. Harry...the X*Crown legend himself who still had the championship when the XHF re-opened, a veteran of the squared circle, but like some, I think it’s best if he just hangs the boots up while he can. A legend he is but even legends need rest and Harry if you’re watching this, I beg you quit the act while you can before I give you something to put you out of indefinite action. A rookie I am but I’m as fierce as any other young blood in this organization, believe that, because July 29th is the day that your career comes to a halt. Now, Steve...okay, hang on, why has a former movie star been allowed to wrestle? Who got bribed? Whatever, this is probably the one person I could care less for out of everybody in this. Why should I take someone who’s been out of this place for who knows how long seriously? If his ring skills are up to par still, then I guess the so-called legend will be sent home with his tail between his legs.”
{Raiden glances around briefly before turning his attention to the journalists in the press section.}
Raiden (cocking a brow): “Any of you got something to ask?”
{The same man from earlier raises his hand.}
Raiden: “Shoot.”
Journalist: “While I’m pretty sure most of us understand your feelings on the match now but the one thing I want to really know is what reason, or reasons, are you fighting for? Obviously, you’re the rep for Suzuki Blitz Wrestling but what purpose are you serving?”
{A wave of silence brushed over Raiden as he let the question sink in. Looking over his shoulder, he makes eye contact with Kohei, who only gives a half-shrug in response. Looking to his other side, he makes eye contact with the others as if asking for some kind of answer but they all just shake their heads in response. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he lets out another sigh before continuing on.}
Raiden: “There...are several reasons that are motivating me to fight. Some personal, some business. As the representative for SBW, it’s my job to wrestle to the best of my ability in this match and help the company gain some exposure in order to draw in more talent. That’s perhaps the main business reason and of course the secondary reason being that I want to become the champion because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to be the top champion in the organization? Everyone’s in it to be number one but to be number one, you have to be the best and silence the critics.”
{His throat tightens at the next thought.}
Raiden: “The other reason I have for fighting in this is more close to my heart. A few years back, some friends of mine unfortunately passed in an untimely accident and when that happened, I found myself alone, lost in a world where I became paranoid to the point that I moved back into my parents’ home in Kyoto out of security. It took me about a solid year and a half to muster the courage to move back here but it took me another four years to actually confront the past and get the answers that I wanted, no, needed from those who also knew them personally as if they were family.”
{He glances over at Kohei, who gives a strong silent nod in agreement.}
Raiden: “For me, Night of Champions isn’t about fighting for the company I’m part of. It’s about fighting for those friends of mine and those who helped me overcome the obstacle of facing the past. My friends Reina, Gempachi, and Ebisawa all helped conquer the demon that had been gnawing at my insides and finally put everything to rest. If it weren’t for them, I’d probably be just as paranoid as I was back then going into this match. Yet, here I stand, telling all of you, that I, Raiden Ishimori, am prepared to face this challenge of valor, courage, determination, and willpower to the fullest extent. Even if I lose that match, I’m not hanging my head low, it’s going to be held up high when I return to Osaka because I know I’ve done many people proud. July 29th, Night of Champions, is the night that I silence all the critics, and prove to everyone that a rookie like me, has as much fight in him as any other veteran or legend in this goddamn business.”
{Thunderous applause immediately erupts as Raiden steps to the side of the podium before bowing to the crowd out of thanks. Kohei goes back up to the podium himself while Raiden walks offstage, tears visibly being held back as he rejoins his companions.}
Marcus: “Hey don’t be crying on us now, Raiden. You save those tears for when you take that strap.”
Soul: “Show ‘em who’s boss!”
{Raiden simply nods in approval before brushing past the group to return to his dressing room. Over the course of the past month, there had been a lot of shit he had to put up with but thankfully he made it. All that was left to do was catch the flight to Minneapolis and prepare to fight for his life in the Four Ring Circus.}
