Post by Jack Manson on Mar 1, 2008 13:59:19 GMT -6
*Post-Collision
Location: Jack Manson’s home
Time: 3:47am*
::The scene opens up in a dark room, the only source of light is from the full moon shining in through the window from outside. The pale white light illuminates a section of the room. In the corner we see the silhouette of a man, a man stood broken. In front of him is a mirror, a large crack runs from the top to the bottom like a glass lightening bolt. As the scene moves in closer we see that it is Jack Manson. His eyes are cold and empty::
[red]JM: LOOK AT YOU! YOU’RE A DAMN MESS! YOU COULDN’T EVEN RETAIN MY TITLE![/red]
[orange]Jack: … [/orange]
::A glass is heard smashing against the wall, breaking the silence in the darkness as the shards scatter across the floor::
[red]JM: Oh that’s right, take your anger out on an inanimate object. Glass doesn’t fight back, Jack! Where was this anger earlier tonight when Joe Everyman was kicking your ass for the win?! You’re pathetic, tarnishing my good name.[/red]
[orange]Jack: … I was careless. Robbed… I can’t believe it.[/orange]
[red]JM: Well believe it! Cos it’s happened. Nothing is gonna reverse that. You’ve made a mockery of me.[/red]
[orange]Jack: You made a mockery of yourself, you didn’t need my help to do that![/orange]
[red]JM: Look, I’ll say this one more time. Get out of my mind, if you don’t I’ll have to remove you forcefully. Do you understand me?[/red]
[orange]Jack: You and what army? I’m not going anywhere. I’ve got a point to prove after that loss.[/orange]
[red]JM: You leave me no choice.[/red]
::The camera slowly backs away as a piercing scream emits from the vocal chords of a tortured Jack Manson. The screams can be heard long through the night as the scene fades to black::
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*Present Day
Location: Cemetery
Time: 13:21pm*
::A heavy rain pelts the ground. The clouds above are an eerie shade of blacks and greys, bursting at the seems with rain fall. A trickle of water runs down the slanted pathway and towards one of the numerous drains. A footstep in the small stream flicks up droplets of water as it lands, before lifting up and carrying on. The camera switches focus and we see a man walking slowly past the numerous memorial stands and gravestones. Rain spatters off the hooded figures head and shoulders as he braves the terrible weather. A few twists and turns among the many pathways in the cemetery and the man stops at a particular gravestone::
Here lies Jack David Manson.
Born 17th Feb. 1985 - Died 29th Feb. 2008
May you rest in peace.
::A moment of stillness comes to an abrupt end when the hooded figure rears up and kicks the loose gravestone over with a mighty force. The stone squashes into the soft mud underneath it, imprinting it’s shape in the grass. The weather worsens, almost like a sign that the gods aren’t happy at this desecration. The man simply turns around and walks off, shoulders hunched up, and his hands in his pockets::
“Jack…”
…
“Hey, you alright..?”
…
::Tony is stood over Jack Manson, who is sprawled out on his bed. The room is a total mess, like a war happened in the confines of it. Tony checks on Jack once more, making sure he is alright as he sits up and looks around. Tony steps back, hands on his hips, looking round the room he shakes his head::
[blue]T: Dayum, what the hell happened here? You never heard of tidying up once in a while?! Or even hiring a cleaner?[/blue]
::Jack sits up and looks around, although he still looks rough. He runs his hand through his hair and suddenly it hits him smack bang in the face. He’s back::
[red]JM: Er… What can I say?[/red]
[blue]T: Whoa there, broken mirror, did you do this? Seven years bad luck isn’t something you want on your mind walking into this championship match.[/blue]
::Looking over to where Tony is stood Manson sees that half of the full length mirror is missing, the other half smashed in pieces on the floor below it::
[red]JM: I can’t really remember. Man, it’s such a great day outside. What time is it?[/red]
[blue]T: It’s three in afternoon you bum. You haven’t done any training all week since you lost to Joe. I thought you just needed time alone to gather your thoughts and what not. But you didn’t answer none of my calls or texts. I left like a million voice messages on your machine. I had to come and check on you, seems as though you’ve been slacking a bit here.[/blue]
::Tony bends down and picks up a few Chinese meal box cartons. Jack simply shrugs::
[red]JM: A man’s gotta eat. I appreciate you coming round. I’ve been miles away recently. That loss to Joe rocked my world. Had me doubting everything.[/red]
[blue]T: Well snap out of it. You’ve got the biggest match of your career coming up and you haven’t done a damn thing about it. Get yourself sorted and go for a run, clear your head, then meet me at the gym.[/blue]
::Manson gives off a genuine smile::
[red]JM: My minds finally clear.[/red]
::A statement with a hidden meaning::
[red]JM: Okay, I’ll get outside for a job. The cool air will do me good. I’ll see you at the gym in an hour or so. [/red]
[blue]T: Alright cool. And tidy this place up a bit, it’s disgusting.[/blue]
::Tony steps through the broken glass, and mess, as he walks on out the room. Manson listens as the front door opens and closes. He collapses back onto his bed. He sits back up, almost like an excited child as he gets out of bed with a spring in his step. Quickly he takes a shower, running through the events of last night. What happened? He isn’t sure. A struggle ensued, no doubt about it. He searches himself mentally for a trace, any sign that this might be some sick dream, nothing. It’s for real. Stepping out the shower a reinvigorated Manson dries himself off, looking in the steamed bathroom mirror. Through the steam there’s a blurry outline of Jack in the reflection, staring back at him. He reaches forward and wipes the image clean from the mirror, and from his mind for good::
[red]JM: It’s a gonna be a great day today.[/red]
::Manson smiles to himself as he stretches the stiffness from his legs. He’s now outside, cladded out in shorts and a white vest. Bending down on one knee he gives his running shoes the once over, pulling the laces tight. A quick shake off and he’s on his way down the road::
[red]JM: As most of you know. I haven’t quite been myself as of late. I won’t bull**** you all, I’ve been a totally different person to be honest. I don’t know why it happened, but it did. It’s done with now. Things that happened during that time have both made me, and destroyed me. It wasn’t all bad, making the arrogant Steve Awesome bleed to retain the National title is something I will never forget. Yet losing that very same title to Joe Everyman only a few weeks later is also something I won’t forget either. So much has happened, most of it I wasn’t even apart of. In body maybe, but not mind and soul. I’ve managed to keep tabs on everything, obviously. I know the things being said about me now. By the press, the fans, my fellow opponents.[/red]
::Jack jogs on through a park, although it’s slightly windy, it’s still buzzing with people of all ages, enjoying the coming of spring::
[red]JM: I might as well get straight to the point. I know my opponents are out there somewhere, listening, watching. That’s fine. We’ve crossed each other many a time now guys. It’s been a hell of a ride, I wish I had more of a hand in things on my side, but that didn’t work out, no matter worrying about the past anymore. It’s time I stopped worrying about the past and concentrated on the future.[/red]
::A dog barks and rushes forward but is soon stopped thanks to it’s leash, gripped tightly by the owner. Manson ignores it and continues his jog::
[red]JM: First things first. Joe Everyman. What can I say? You took your shot and it got you the National title, your method was questionable, but that never matters these days does it? I’ve spent so much time playing this game by the rules that it’s gotten to the point where I’m now thinking “why bother?”. So many people cheat, and play dirty in this company that it’s time me, and the others stopped trying to play it by the book and join them. It’s dawned on me that the people who get ahead are the ones that use every opportunity that comes their way. Whether it’s using weapons ala Ace, or if it’s using the ropes to gain the win like Spike or you Joe. I guess in a way I must thank you. You’ve given me the boost needed to improve my game, to take control of myself and do what I know I can do. That title meant a lot to me, maybe too much. It held me back from the bigger prize. The World title. So thank you Joe, I don’t regret that loss to you. I hope you’ll go onto be a great champion, but from your previous title reign the future doesn’t look bright.
Now, the World title match. Me against two of the biggest stars in this business. Spike Kane and Lance Ryan. Both men need no introduction do they. Their legacy’s speak for themselves. And here I am, going up against both of you for the biggest prize in the company. Spike’s World title.
Spike, let me give you my condolences for your loss. I am truly sorry about what has happened. It must be hard for you, having lost your son, and now losing another person close to you. I know what it’s like. But despite your loss you’re still going ahead with this match. A true sign of your character. Something I’ve always saw in you. You’re a great champion there is no doubt about that. But you’ve run your course now. How long do you think you can continue fending off every target that has you in it’s sights? How much more of these games people play with you can you win? You’ve come up against a lot of adversity in your time here, and you’ve overcome most of it. But it’s taking it’s toll on you. I’ve witnessed you on your downward spiral these last few weeks Spike. Losing to Steve Awesome, losing to Lance and RJ, two defeats isn’t the Spike Kane I once knew. You’re approaching rock bottom, your time as the World champion is slowly coming to an end. And it will end by my hands, not Lance’s, mine.
I know many people don’t think I stand a chance on Sunday night, hell I even had my own doubts for a while. I’ve heard the rumours that I’m the next Davey Ortega, the new choke artist in nCw. That won’t be the case this Sunday. Unlike my old partner Ortega, I intend to show up to this fight, not lying down at the champs feet in submission to let him retain the title. Having nobody believe in me is something I’ve come to expect these days, but I’ve had to overcome doubts like this all my life. Everyone doubted me when I stepped in that ring the first time against the now unknown Matt Jenkins. I wasn’t given a chance of becoming the first National champion here, yet I over came that too. I won’t go on about my past because you all know what I’ve achieved when in these kinds of situations, that‘s right, I came out on top. However knowing I might be stepping in that ring as someone else prompted me to get my life back.
Spike, you can’t stop me, as hard as you try you will fail to keep what you hold dear to your heart when it’s all said and done. Just like your son, and Nola. You failed to keep them alive, I know people will tell you otherwise, or you might try and blame that Jones guy, but come on Spike, we all know you’re the real person to blame here. You’re the one who stopped her from living, she took her own life because of you. Do you honestly have what it takes to be a hundred percent focussed on this match? I don’t think you do.[/red]
::Manson’s breathing is becoming slightly heavier as he picks up his pace, still running through the park. Beads of sweat glisten across his brow, catching the sunlight. On the right across the path where Manson is running is a brick wall, not very high, about waist height. Running the length of the wall is a generic looking steel fence, over this fence is the main road and the public shops. As Manson continues running his thoughts are distracted by a distant beeping of a car horn. Ignoring it he continues on his run, the beeping getting louder till he’s forced to look over the fence. Lo and behold it’s none other than Chad Lights, hanging precariously out the window waving Jack down for an interview. Jack smiles at this comedic skit-like spectacle as he simply speeds his run up, becoming a blur through the tree’s and bushes aligning against the course he’s running. Chad watches him speed away thanks to the public speed limit and the numerous cars and bikes in the traffic stopping their progress. Chad gets back inside after nearly falling out the window, his hair wind swept::
[orange]CL: Step on it, don’t lose him![/orange]
::The driver of the nCw press van manoeuvres through the traffic, trying to catch up to Manson::
[red]JM: God dammit Chad, as if I have time to talk to you about this match.[/red]
::Manson mumbles to himself as he changes his route and heads over the grass, heading to the other side of the park, hoping to lose Chad’s persistent trailing::
[red]JM: Now, where was I? Ah yes. Don’t get me wrong Spike, I hold you in the highest regards because of your accomplishments. And many of those idiots back stage give you too much respect when they step in that ring with you. It’s one of those things that happens everywhere. Being star struck is the downfall of all competitors. Look at football, or soccer for our American friends, the lower teams treat the higher teams with too much respect when going out on the field with them. And it usually ends up being ninety minutes of the lower team getting hammered. When we get in that ring my respect for you will go out the window. I have no qualms of hurting you Kane. I’m not out for revenge this Sunday because I’m past wanting revenge on you. I could have gotten my revenge long ago. The opportunities have been there, and on some level I wish I had taken them. But I was playing it by the books back then, and something like that wasn’t in my character. Now, I couldn’t give a **** whether I hurt you or not. If there is one thing that I learnt whilst being a prisoner of myself, is that I have been taking it too easy on my opponents. I knew my limits when in the ring. But now I have no limits as to how far I will go to get the victory over you, or anyone else for that matter.[/red]
::As Jack continues his run he reaches a quiet area with some trees dotted about the scene. Deciding it a peaceful place to take a quick breather he exerts a sprint to the shaded spot. That took more out of him that he thought, best lay off the take away meals for a while. Stopping at the largest tree there Manson checks the ground before sitting down, resting against the hard tree bark. Taking in the scene in front of him. Spring is defiantly on it’s way. The seasonal change is among us, quite ironic that Spikes time as champion is also ending and bringing about a change in nCw. Behind him Jack hears whispered voices. Assuming them to be curious fans or just random dog walkers he pays them no heed::
: …. Go on… There.
: Why Me? … You… Because… View
: Alright… On.
::The whispering ceases and Manson can hear footsteps snapping branches behind him. Idiots wouldn’t be any good at spying. Becoming a bit wary of the people behind him Manson turns round and looks over his shoulder. Nobody there, instead of turning back round he carries on looking through the branches for any obvious signs of movement. Thinking they’ve moved on he turns back only to be greeted by Chad Lights and a camera man. The sudden appearance of these two causes Manson to jump::
[red]JM: JESUS CHAD![/red]
[orange]CL: Sorry Jack, but you know I always get my man.[/orange]
::Jack ignores the homosexual undertones and raises an eyebrow::
[orange]CL: You know what I meant. Look, you’ve been assumed MIA this week and we’ve been assigned to find out why. Where have you been?[/orange]
[red]JM: Let me paint you a picture Chad. A picture of wonderment. I’ve been to a land far, far away. I’ve seen things that most people won’t see in their entire life time, not in person anyway.[/red]
::Chad becomes intrigued and listens intently::
[red]JM: Pyramids, natural wonders, the great wall, exotic animals… Chad, I’ve seen them all.[/red]
[orange]CL: So you’ve been travelling?! Wow, how exciting. Where did you go? Sounds like you visited quite a few places.[/orange]
[red]JM: I’m just messing Chad, I haven’t had time for travelling. Come on, all those places in a week? What am I? Superman? I haven’t been anywhere, I just haven’t been myself lately and today that’s changed. I’m back. Better than ever. A little late but best to turn up than not at all eh?[/red]
[orange]CL: Er… Yeah. Well anyway, big match this week Jack. You, Spike, and Lance. The World title on the line. This is what you’ve been waiting for right? This is what it all comes down to. All the hard work, all the blood, sweat, and tears.[/orange]
[red]JM: Yeah, it is a big match. The biggest. Bigger than the coliseum match that’s main eventing the *** damn show. I mean come on Chad, how ****ty is that? The most prestigious prize in nCw has to play second fiddle to the match that decides the number one contender? Something wrong with that me thinks. When I become the new World champion I’ll make sure that it’s in the main event of every *** damn show from there on out.[/red]
[orange]CL: The coliseum match is a big match in it’s own right though Jack. But I agree that it’s strange the World title being before the Coliseum match. Leonard must think it will draw more viewers in, but it’s not my place to assume. I’m just the interviewer here.[/orange]
[red]JM: Come on Chad, you can speak your mind.[/red]
[orange]CL: Maybe later. I’ve got this interview to finish so I get paid.[/orange]
[red]JM: Fine by me, whatever gets you out of my hair.[/red]
[orange]CL: Now then, Are you angry you lost the National title? There goes your chance to hold two consecutive titles, must be a blow knowing that isn’t happening anytime soon. [/orange]
[red]JM: Not really. I made a damn good National champion Chad, it gave me the push I needed to keep my place on the top of nCw, or at least around the top tier of nCw. But that title was keeping me back. I am better than the National title. As for being the first person to hold two different titles at the same time? Meh, can you imagine the bounty put on my head if I had both the National and the World title? That’s something I couldn’t be bothered with to be honest. That might sound a bit ungrateful but **** what it sounds like. I only have one thing in mind now. The World title. If I somehow don‘t succeed in winning the belt on Sunday, then Spike best prepare himself because I‘ll be coming straight back at him for another shot. And this will be a shot where there is no involvement from people like Lance, or Davey, jumping in on another persons plans.[/red]
[orange]CL: Speaking of them two, Lance thinks you shouldn’t even be in the title match, that you’re only in there because of a bet. Does that go down well with you?[/orange]
[red]JM: I’ve learnt not to listen to a damn word Lance Ryan says. Although he does speak with some clarity. I don’t officially deserve to be in this match really. I’m only in there because of a bet. However Lance doesn’t deserve to be in this match either. Cashing in his re-match clause after so long? He can’t face the facts that he isn’t World champion material anymore. Couldn’t accept that this match is really between myself and Spike. If you ask me Lance is the third wheel in this match, not me. I’ve done plenty outside that bet to warrant my shot at becoming the World champ, but it just so happens that this is how it will go down. Lance had his chance at being World champion and he couldn’t hack it. His old bones were unable to take the pressure and they crumbled to a younger, hungrier opponent in Spike Kane. Lance has been getting the upper hand over both of me and Spike these last few weeks and thinks he’s unstoppable. Steve Awesome was the same, thought he was unstoppable till I knocked him off his perch. I’ll do the same thing to Lance Ryan. He might not be the same person I‘ve fought side by side with in the past, but his recent run won‘t continue past Sovereign. I‘ll put Lance in his place once and for all.[/red]
[orange]CL: Well you might have an easier time doing so since he is facing off against his son earlier in the night. It will be a true test of Lance’s character if he can win both matches.[/orange]
[red]JM: Yeah it will be. He hasn’t got any character. He’s a drone of Reckless Jack’s following now. Lance hasn’t got it in him to go two rounds, especially not when it‘s me and Spike he‘s up against in the second match. His number is up. [/red]
[orange]CL: What’s your take on this Age of the Revolution stuff he’s part of then? Do you think it’s a load of pointless jibber jabber like the rest of us? Or is there something behind it all?[/orange]
[red]JM: Ugh, I’m so sick and tired of hearing about Reckless Jack and his band of cronies. God knows how these idiots are still getting air time. It’s no wonder Fox slapped them with limited air time thanks to the viewers simply turning off when they’re on. Frankly I don’t care about their mission, or their belief’s. I might be part of this society that isn’t a nice place but that’s okay. This is home to me. Where greed and corruption is ruler and things like compassion and love to everyone is something of the past. That’s the world today, that’s the state of things now and there isn’t a damn thing they can do to change it. My problem is with Lance Ryan anyways, not his group.[/red]
[orange]CL: Now, how shocked were you twhen you found out Davey Ortega is going to be the special guest referee in this match? It’s like a soap drama this match.[/orange]
[red]JM: Heh, yeah in a way it is. I don’t care if Ortega is refereeing the match. He’s out there to enforce the law for this match, had enough of the trouble makers and rule breakers. I’m down with that. I see Ortega being a better referee than any true official we have here. It’s nice he’s back in the World title scene. Even if it is to see his former partner pass him by on the road to winning the championship. I just hope he shows up to this one and doesn’t get distracted by the wealth of talent on show Sunday.[/red]
[orange]CL: Well, as always it’s been a pleasure. Good luck in your match, it will defiantly be a show stopper whatever the outcome.[/orange]
[red]JM: Thanks Chad.[/red]
::Chad and the cameraman walk off, leaving Jack alone in the shade, watching as the world passes him by. He knows that this opportunity to become the new World champion won’t slip through his fingers::
The scene fades to black
Location: Jack Manson’s home
Time: 3:47am*
::The scene opens up in a dark room, the only source of light is from the full moon shining in through the window from outside. The pale white light illuminates a section of the room. In the corner we see the silhouette of a man, a man stood broken. In front of him is a mirror, a large crack runs from the top to the bottom like a glass lightening bolt. As the scene moves in closer we see that it is Jack Manson. His eyes are cold and empty::
[red]JM: LOOK AT YOU! YOU’RE A DAMN MESS! YOU COULDN’T EVEN RETAIN MY TITLE![/red]
[orange]Jack: … [/orange]
::A glass is heard smashing against the wall, breaking the silence in the darkness as the shards scatter across the floor::
[red]JM: Oh that’s right, take your anger out on an inanimate object. Glass doesn’t fight back, Jack! Where was this anger earlier tonight when Joe Everyman was kicking your ass for the win?! You’re pathetic, tarnishing my good name.[/red]
[orange]Jack: … I was careless. Robbed… I can’t believe it.[/orange]
[red]JM: Well believe it! Cos it’s happened. Nothing is gonna reverse that. You’ve made a mockery of me.[/red]
[orange]Jack: You made a mockery of yourself, you didn’t need my help to do that![/orange]
[red]JM: Look, I’ll say this one more time. Get out of my mind, if you don’t I’ll have to remove you forcefully. Do you understand me?[/red]
[orange]Jack: You and what army? I’m not going anywhere. I’ve got a point to prove after that loss.[/orange]
[red]JM: You leave me no choice.[/red]
::The camera slowly backs away as a piercing scream emits from the vocal chords of a tortured Jack Manson. The screams can be heard long through the night as the scene fades to black::
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*Present Day
Location: Cemetery
Time: 13:21pm*
::A heavy rain pelts the ground. The clouds above are an eerie shade of blacks and greys, bursting at the seems with rain fall. A trickle of water runs down the slanted pathway and towards one of the numerous drains. A footstep in the small stream flicks up droplets of water as it lands, before lifting up and carrying on. The camera switches focus and we see a man walking slowly past the numerous memorial stands and gravestones. Rain spatters off the hooded figures head and shoulders as he braves the terrible weather. A few twists and turns among the many pathways in the cemetery and the man stops at a particular gravestone::
Here lies Jack David Manson.
Born 17th Feb. 1985 - Died 29th Feb. 2008
May you rest in peace.
::A moment of stillness comes to an abrupt end when the hooded figure rears up and kicks the loose gravestone over with a mighty force. The stone squashes into the soft mud underneath it, imprinting it’s shape in the grass. The weather worsens, almost like a sign that the gods aren’t happy at this desecration. The man simply turns around and walks off, shoulders hunched up, and his hands in his pockets::
“Jack…”
…
“Hey, you alright..?”
…
::Tony is stood over Jack Manson, who is sprawled out on his bed. The room is a total mess, like a war happened in the confines of it. Tony checks on Jack once more, making sure he is alright as he sits up and looks around. Tony steps back, hands on his hips, looking round the room he shakes his head::
[blue]T: Dayum, what the hell happened here? You never heard of tidying up once in a while?! Or even hiring a cleaner?[/blue]
::Jack sits up and looks around, although he still looks rough. He runs his hand through his hair and suddenly it hits him smack bang in the face. He’s back::
[red]JM: Er… What can I say?[/red]
[blue]T: Whoa there, broken mirror, did you do this? Seven years bad luck isn’t something you want on your mind walking into this championship match.[/blue]
::Looking over to where Tony is stood Manson sees that half of the full length mirror is missing, the other half smashed in pieces on the floor below it::
[red]JM: I can’t really remember. Man, it’s such a great day outside. What time is it?[/red]
[blue]T: It’s three in afternoon you bum. You haven’t done any training all week since you lost to Joe. I thought you just needed time alone to gather your thoughts and what not. But you didn’t answer none of my calls or texts. I left like a million voice messages on your machine. I had to come and check on you, seems as though you’ve been slacking a bit here.[/blue]
::Tony bends down and picks up a few Chinese meal box cartons. Jack simply shrugs::
[red]JM: A man’s gotta eat. I appreciate you coming round. I’ve been miles away recently. That loss to Joe rocked my world. Had me doubting everything.[/red]
[blue]T: Well snap out of it. You’ve got the biggest match of your career coming up and you haven’t done a damn thing about it. Get yourself sorted and go for a run, clear your head, then meet me at the gym.[/blue]
::Manson gives off a genuine smile::
[red]JM: My minds finally clear.[/red]
::A statement with a hidden meaning::
[red]JM: Okay, I’ll get outside for a job. The cool air will do me good. I’ll see you at the gym in an hour or so. [/red]
[blue]T: Alright cool. And tidy this place up a bit, it’s disgusting.[/blue]
::Tony steps through the broken glass, and mess, as he walks on out the room. Manson listens as the front door opens and closes. He collapses back onto his bed. He sits back up, almost like an excited child as he gets out of bed with a spring in his step. Quickly he takes a shower, running through the events of last night. What happened? He isn’t sure. A struggle ensued, no doubt about it. He searches himself mentally for a trace, any sign that this might be some sick dream, nothing. It’s for real. Stepping out the shower a reinvigorated Manson dries himself off, looking in the steamed bathroom mirror. Through the steam there’s a blurry outline of Jack in the reflection, staring back at him. He reaches forward and wipes the image clean from the mirror, and from his mind for good::
[red]JM: It’s a gonna be a great day today.[/red]
::Manson smiles to himself as he stretches the stiffness from his legs. He’s now outside, cladded out in shorts and a white vest. Bending down on one knee he gives his running shoes the once over, pulling the laces tight. A quick shake off and he’s on his way down the road::
[red]JM: As most of you know. I haven’t quite been myself as of late. I won’t bull**** you all, I’ve been a totally different person to be honest. I don’t know why it happened, but it did. It’s done with now. Things that happened during that time have both made me, and destroyed me. It wasn’t all bad, making the arrogant Steve Awesome bleed to retain the National title is something I will never forget. Yet losing that very same title to Joe Everyman only a few weeks later is also something I won’t forget either. So much has happened, most of it I wasn’t even apart of. In body maybe, but not mind and soul. I’ve managed to keep tabs on everything, obviously. I know the things being said about me now. By the press, the fans, my fellow opponents.[/red]
::Jack jogs on through a park, although it’s slightly windy, it’s still buzzing with people of all ages, enjoying the coming of spring::
[red]JM: I might as well get straight to the point. I know my opponents are out there somewhere, listening, watching. That’s fine. We’ve crossed each other many a time now guys. It’s been a hell of a ride, I wish I had more of a hand in things on my side, but that didn’t work out, no matter worrying about the past anymore. It’s time I stopped worrying about the past and concentrated on the future.[/red]
::A dog barks and rushes forward but is soon stopped thanks to it’s leash, gripped tightly by the owner. Manson ignores it and continues his jog::
[red]JM: First things first. Joe Everyman. What can I say? You took your shot and it got you the National title, your method was questionable, but that never matters these days does it? I’ve spent so much time playing this game by the rules that it’s gotten to the point where I’m now thinking “why bother?”. So many people cheat, and play dirty in this company that it’s time me, and the others stopped trying to play it by the book and join them. It’s dawned on me that the people who get ahead are the ones that use every opportunity that comes their way. Whether it’s using weapons ala Ace, or if it’s using the ropes to gain the win like Spike or you Joe. I guess in a way I must thank you. You’ve given me the boost needed to improve my game, to take control of myself and do what I know I can do. That title meant a lot to me, maybe too much. It held me back from the bigger prize. The World title. So thank you Joe, I don’t regret that loss to you. I hope you’ll go onto be a great champion, but from your previous title reign the future doesn’t look bright.
Now, the World title match. Me against two of the biggest stars in this business. Spike Kane and Lance Ryan. Both men need no introduction do they. Their legacy’s speak for themselves. And here I am, going up against both of you for the biggest prize in the company. Spike’s World title.
Spike, let me give you my condolences for your loss. I am truly sorry about what has happened. It must be hard for you, having lost your son, and now losing another person close to you. I know what it’s like. But despite your loss you’re still going ahead with this match. A true sign of your character. Something I’ve always saw in you. You’re a great champion there is no doubt about that. But you’ve run your course now. How long do you think you can continue fending off every target that has you in it’s sights? How much more of these games people play with you can you win? You’ve come up against a lot of adversity in your time here, and you’ve overcome most of it. But it’s taking it’s toll on you. I’ve witnessed you on your downward spiral these last few weeks Spike. Losing to Steve Awesome, losing to Lance and RJ, two defeats isn’t the Spike Kane I once knew. You’re approaching rock bottom, your time as the World champion is slowly coming to an end. And it will end by my hands, not Lance’s, mine.
I know many people don’t think I stand a chance on Sunday night, hell I even had my own doubts for a while. I’ve heard the rumours that I’m the next Davey Ortega, the new choke artist in nCw. That won’t be the case this Sunday. Unlike my old partner Ortega, I intend to show up to this fight, not lying down at the champs feet in submission to let him retain the title. Having nobody believe in me is something I’ve come to expect these days, but I’ve had to overcome doubts like this all my life. Everyone doubted me when I stepped in that ring the first time against the now unknown Matt Jenkins. I wasn’t given a chance of becoming the first National champion here, yet I over came that too. I won’t go on about my past because you all know what I’ve achieved when in these kinds of situations, that‘s right, I came out on top. However knowing I might be stepping in that ring as someone else prompted me to get my life back.
Spike, you can’t stop me, as hard as you try you will fail to keep what you hold dear to your heart when it’s all said and done. Just like your son, and Nola. You failed to keep them alive, I know people will tell you otherwise, or you might try and blame that Jones guy, but come on Spike, we all know you’re the real person to blame here. You’re the one who stopped her from living, she took her own life because of you. Do you honestly have what it takes to be a hundred percent focussed on this match? I don’t think you do.[/red]
::Manson’s breathing is becoming slightly heavier as he picks up his pace, still running through the park. Beads of sweat glisten across his brow, catching the sunlight. On the right across the path where Manson is running is a brick wall, not very high, about waist height. Running the length of the wall is a generic looking steel fence, over this fence is the main road and the public shops. As Manson continues running his thoughts are distracted by a distant beeping of a car horn. Ignoring it he continues on his run, the beeping getting louder till he’s forced to look over the fence. Lo and behold it’s none other than Chad Lights, hanging precariously out the window waving Jack down for an interview. Jack smiles at this comedic skit-like spectacle as he simply speeds his run up, becoming a blur through the tree’s and bushes aligning against the course he’s running. Chad watches him speed away thanks to the public speed limit and the numerous cars and bikes in the traffic stopping their progress. Chad gets back inside after nearly falling out the window, his hair wind swept::
[orange]CL: Step on it, don’t lose him![/orange]
::The driver of the nCw press van manoeuvres through the traffic, trying to catch up to Manson::
[red]JM: God dammit Chad, as if I have time to talk to you about this match.[/red]
::Manson mumbles to himself as he changes his route and heads over the grass, heading to the other side of the park, hoping to lose Chad’s persistent trailing::
[red]JM: Now, where was I? Ah yes. Don’t get me wrong Spike, I hold you in the highest regards because of your accomplishments. And many of those idiots back stage give you too much respect when they step in that ring with you. It’s one of those things that happens everywhere. Being star struck is the downfall of all competitors. Look at football, or soccer for our American friends, the lower teams treat the higher teams with too much respect when going out on the field with them. And it usually ends up being ninety minutes of the lower team getting hammered. When we get in that ring my respect for you will go out the window. I have no qualms of hurting you Kane. I’m not out for revenge this Sunday because I’m past wanting revenge on you. I could have gotten my revenge long ago. The opportunities have been there, and on some level I wish I had taken them. But I was playing it by the books back then, and something like that wasn’t in my character. Now, I couldn’t give a **** whether I hurt you or not. If there is one thing that I learnt whilst being a prisoner of myself, is that I have been taking it too easy on my opponents. I knew my limits when in the ring. But now I have no limits as to how far I will go to get the victory over you, or anyone else for that matter.[/red]
::As Jack continues his run he reaches a quiet area with some trees dotted about the scene. Deciding it a peaceful place to take a quick breather he exerts a sprint to the shaded spot. That took more out of him that he thought, best lay off the take away meals for a while. Stopping at the largest tree there Manson checks the ground before sitting down, resting against the hard tree bark. Taking in the scene in front of him. Spring is defiantly on it’s way. The seasonal change is among us, quite ironic that Spikes time as champion is also ending and bringing about a change in nCw. Behind him Jack hears whispered voices. Assuming them to be curious fans or just random dog walkers he pays them no heed::
: …. Go on… There.
: Why Me? … You… Because… View
: Alright… On.
::The whispering ceases and Manson can hear footsteps snapping branches behind him. Idiots wouldn’t be any good at spying. Becoming a bit wary of the people behind him Manson turns round and looks over his shoulder. Nobody there, instead of turning back round he carries on looking through the branches for any obvious signs of movement. Thinking they’ve moved on he turns back only to be greeted by Chad Lights and a camera man. The sudden appearance of these two causes Manson to jump::
[red]JM: JESUS CHAD![/red]
[orange]CL: Sorry Jack, but you know I always get my man.[/orange]
::Jack ignores the homosexual undertones and raises an eyebrow::
[orange]CL: You know what I meant. Look, you’ve been assumed MIA this week and we’ve been assigned to find out why. Where have you been?[/orange]
[red]JM: Let me paint you a picture Chad. A picture of wonderment. I’ve been to a land far, far away. I’ve seen things that most people won’t see in their entire life time, not in person anyway.[/red]
::Chad becomes intrigued and listens intently::
[red]JM: Pyramids, natural wonders, the great wall, exotic animals… Chad, I’ve seen them all.[/red]
[orange]CL: So you’ve been travelling?! Wow, how exciting. Where did you go? Sounds like you visited quite a few places.[/orange]
[red]JM: I’m just messing Chad, I haven’t had time for travelling. Come on, all those places in a week? What am I? Superman? I haven’t been anywhere, I just haven’t been myself lately and today that’s changed. I’m back. Better than ever. A little late but best to turn up than not at all eh?[/red]
[orange]CL: Er… Yeah. Well anyway, big match this week Jack. You, Spike, and Lance. The World title on the line. This is what you’ve been waiting for right? This is what it all comes down to. All the hard work, all the blood, sweat, and tears.[/orange]
[red]JM: Yeah, it is a big match. The biggest. Bigger than the coliseum match that’s main eventing the *** damn show. I mean come on Chad, how ****ty is that? The most prestigious prize in nCw has to play second fiddle to the match that decides the number one contender? Something wrong with that me thinks. When I become the new World champion I’ll make sure that it’s in the main event of every *** damn show from there on out.[/red]
[orange]CL: The coliseum match is a big match in it’s own right though Jack. But I agree that it’s strange the World title being before the Coliseum match. Leonard must think it will draw more viewers in, but it’s not my place to assume. I’m just the interviewer here.[/orange]
[red]JM: Come on Chad, you can speak your mind.[/red]
[orange]CL: Maybe later. I’ve got this interview to finish so I get paid.[/orange]
[red]JM: Fine by me, whatever gets you out of my hair.[/red]
[orange]CL: Now then, Are you angry you lost the National title? There goes your chance to hold two consecutive titles, must be a blow knowing that isn’t happening anytime soon. [/orange]
[red]JM: Not really. I made a damn good National champion Chad, it gave me the push I needed to keep my place on the top of nCw, or at least around the top tier of nCw. But that title was keeping me back. I am better than the National title. As for being the first person to hold two different titles at the same time? Meh, can you imagine the bounty put on my head if I had both the National and the World title? That’s something I couldn’t be bothered with to be honest. That might sound a bit ungrateful but **** what it sounds like. I only have one thing in mind now. The World title. If I somehow don‘t succeed in winning the belt on Sunday, then Spike best prepare himself because I‘ll be coming straight back at him for another shot. And this will be a shot where there is no involvement from people like Lance, or Davey, jumping in on another persons plans.[/red]
[orange]CL: Speaking of them two, Lance thinks you shouldn’t even be in the title match, that you’re only in there because of a bet. Does that go down well with you?[/orange]
[red]JM: I’ve learnt not to listen to a damn word Lance Ryan says. Although he does speak with some clarity. I don’t officially deserve to be in this match really. I’m only in there because of a bet. However Lance doesn’t deserve to be in this match either. Cashing in his re-match clause after so long? He can’t face the facts that he isn’t World champion material anymore. Couldn’t accept that this match is really between myself and Spike. If you ask me Lance is the third wheel in this match, not me. I’ve done plenty outside that bet to warrant my shot at becoming the World champ, but it just so happens that this is how it will go down. Lance had his chance at being World champion and he couldn’t hack it. His old bones were unable to take the pressure and they crumbled to a younger, hungrier opponent in Spike Kane. Lance has been getting the upper hand over both of me and Spike these last few weeks and thinks he’s unstoppable. Steve Awesome was the same, thought he was unstoppable till I knocked him off his perch. I’ll do the same thing to Lance Ryan. He might not be the same person I‘ve fought side by side with in the past, but his recent run won‘t continue past Sovereign. I‘ll put Lance in his place once and for all.[/red]
[orange]CL: Well you might have an easier time doing so since he is facing off against his son earlier in the night. It will be a true test of Lance’s character if he can win both matches.[/orange]
[red]JM: Yeah it will be. He hasn’t got any character. He’s a drone of Reckless Jack’s following now. Lance hasn’t got it in him to go two rounds, especially not when it‘s me and Spike he‘s up against in the second match. His number is up. [/red]
[orange]CL: What’s your take on this Age of the Revolution stuff he’s part of then? Do you think it’s a load of pointless jibber jabber like the rest of us? Or is there something behind it all?[/orange]
[red]JM: Ugh, I’m so sick and tired of hearing about Reckless Jack and his band of cronies. God knows how these idiots are still getting air time. It’s no wonder Fox slapped them with limited air time thanks to the viewers simply turning off when they’re on. Frankly I don’t care about their mission, or their belief’s. I might be part of this society that isn’t a nice place but that’s okay. This is home to me. Where greed and corruption is ruler and things like compassion and love to everyone is something of the past. That’s the world today, that’s the state of things now and there isn’t a damn thing they can do to change it. My problem is with Lance Ryan anyways, not his group.[/red]
[orange]CL: Now, how shocked were you twhen you found out Davey Ortega is going to be the special guest referee in this match? It’s like a soap drama this match.[/orange]
[red]JM: Heh, yeah in a way it is. I don’t care if Ortega is refereeing the match. He’s out there to enforce the law for this match, had enough of the trouble makers and rule breakers. I’m down with that. I see Ortega being a better referee than any true official we have here. It’s nice he’s back in the World title scene. Even if it is to see his former partner pass him by on the road to winning the championship. I just hope he shows up to this one and doesn’t get distracted by the wealth of talent on show Sunday.[/red]
[orange]CL: Well, as always it’s been a pleasure. Good luck in your match, it will defiantly be a show stopper whatever the outcome.[/orange]
[red]JM: Thanks Chad.[/red]
::Chad and the cameraman walk off, leaving Jack alone in the shade, watching as the world passes him by. He knows that this opportunity to become the new World champion won’t slip through his fingers::
The scene fades to black