Post by Cameron Stone on Apr 29, 2016 6:33:13 GMT -5
OOC: rough week and a half, pretty much no time to work on this. There was more in mind, a longer, more fleshed out scene with Stone's wife being one of them, and some of the monologue stuff worked in as perhaps another conversation scene or something to that effect. But didn't have it in me, I'm amazing at what I got out in all honesty. Sorry to my opponent, who deserved a bit stronger of an effort from me. I didn't spend anytime organizing how the monologue was ordered, so hopefully it flows alright. Also for those who haven't read my stuff, red dialogue is Cameron, Blue is Christy, his wife, other colors are for the person besides me in that scene. So here we go. Suurprised to see it's a couple hundred words longer than my Curtain Call rp didn't feel like it. Hopefully this wasn't boring or a chore to read.
March 15, 2016
Sitting in his car, his cell phone in hand, Cameron is deep in thought. He has a number pulled up on his phone, all he would have to do to make the call is press one button. But a part of him is nervous about the phone call. It's a conversation that's been a long time coming, but has been put off for so long now that finally initiating it is proving to be a challenge. Finally, Cameron grits his teeth and hits the call button, and raises the phone to his ear. After three rings, it's answered, the voice on the other end completely calm and collected, but with that slight edge of ferocity that it's always had.
Samael: Cameron, I must admit, I wasn't expecting your call. Though I wasn't expecting you to make an appearance last night during my match either. So maybe I shouldn't be surprised.
Cameron: Yeah. Sorry about getting out of there so quickly. If I had known the crap they were going to pull on you, I'd have stuck around.
Samael: It's probably for the best that you didn't stay. You'd only be a bigger target, and you'd be facing much larger consequences.
Cameron: Maybe. But you know better than anyone that I can take care of myself just fine. I'm a big boy. I'm not scared of anyone. I've had my ass kick plenty of times. Will have it kicked plenty more in the future. Doesn't really matter.
Samael: Why did you call me Cameron? We haven't really spoken since Curtain Call. Let's avoid the chit chat, and get to the point.
Cameron: Alright then. It's two things really. First, I wanted to see how you were doing after Shawn's passing. I know it's been tough on me. Keeping myself ridiculously busy has probably been the only reason I'm getting through it as easily as I am. And you've been his main contact over the last year, so I can only imagine what it's like for you.
Samael: I'm still working towards the mission. It isn't easy, but I'm doing fine. What else do you need?
Cameron: I wanted to tell you that I'm happy to see the direction you're heading in. You probably don't care what I think, but you're truly on the right side now. Maybe you always were. You're taking the fight where it needs to go. I'm not cocky enough to think I have anything to do with it, and I wanted to say that I'm sorry for not having enough faith in you. I got caught up in a crusade, and I didn't keep an open mind. So whenever I can, from now on, I got your back.
Samael: Thank you. What brought on this sudden change, if I may ask?
Cameron: One of those wise sage moments from Shawn Malakai in the last conversation I had with him before he died.
Samael: I'm surprised he got involved in our fight. I was under the impression he was going to be keeping out of it for the most part, and letting us deal with it ourselves.
Cameron: Oh he did keep out of it. He didn't talk to me about it until after I beat you. We had a couple of conversations steer that way after that,
Samael: He didn't mention those to me.
Cameron: I'd imagine that's because he generally didn't like playing people off of one another. He doesn't just go around telling everyone what other people said. Not to mention, you were taking care of him more than anyone else in the end. He wasn't about to put any more weight on your shoulders. You've got enough of a burden as is.
Samael: So what did he tell you then?
Cameron: He told me how hypocritical it was of me to not give you another chance when I'm living off a second chance myself. I'm a changed man. And that is only because of the opportunities people gave me to become one. He asked me what kind of friend I'd be to not give you a chance. He told me if I abandoned you entirely, that I'd be setting a bad example.
Samael: After what we went through, and all of the things that we did to each other, I'm not so sure things with us can ever be the same as they were.
Cameron: I don't either. But if we can find a common ground, we can evolve. We tore our friendship down, but maybe we can build something else on the foundation.
Samael: What if it isn't built as strong as it used to be? Would it still be worth the effort it will take to rebuild it?
Cameron: I suppose only time would tell. But I think not trying would be the wrong move.
A long pause occurs, with neither man saying a thing.
Cameron: Do you know what Shawn left me in his will?
Samael: No. I can't say I really paid any attention to that. I've been busy with other aspects of his estate. The subject of you hasn't come up at all.
Cameron: Well, he didn't leave me any money or anything like that. Said the income I'm making with my acting and everything would make that pointless. He left me the advice I've been sharing with you just now. The note he left me basically begged me to forgive you, and to work with you. My interference on your behalf last night was my attempt to start that. Shawn also left me one physical item. A framed photograph of the three of us together backstage. I believe it's from Superbrawl, before the show began, but I'm not entirely sure of that. All three of us look happy in that picture. That's how I want to remember Shawn, and what I'd llike to get back to with you, or at least closer to that end of the spectrum.
Samael: Well, the next couple months are going to be intense as hell. Knowing you're not my enemy anymore is a good start.
Cameron: One less distraction for you en route to becoming a grand slam champion.
Samael: This is starting to get a little too sappy now.
Cameron: That sounds like as close to a "We're Good" as I'm going to get.
Samael: Take it however you like. By the way, I couldn't help but notice that WFWF.com had you incorrectly listed as being a few inches shorter than you are and about 30 pounds lighter. Since when did you become a midget?
Cameron: That has since been corrected, thank you very much! And are you really surprised? Trace and Drakz has been trying to sell me short for years. And they probably want to take my legs out from under me after I helped you and butted into their business.
Samael groans at the puns said by Cameron.
Samael: I've got some things I've got to take care of. Can we wrap this up for now?
Cameron: Sure, sure. One more thing though. I just wanted to say thank you Sam.
Samael: For what?
Cameron: Losing the National Title so quickly. Remember back in 2012 when I won it and lost it on the very next show, resulting in basically the shortest title run in company history with that championship? Now I no longer have the shortest reign hanging over my head. That feels nice. Anyways, you said you have to go, so I'll talk to you later man.
Samael: You're welcome, jackass.
Cameron ends the call, and tosses his phone into the passenger seat of his car. He fires up the vehicle and drives away.
**********
**********
April 4, 2016
Walking through the parking lot backstage, still holding the barbed wire hockey stick and singapore cane respectively, Cameron Stone and Josh Dean are both grinning ear to ear at the events that just transpired.
Cameron Stone: Man, it feels nice to close a show standing tall! It seems like it's always the other way around. Now, we've got the momentum for once. I have a good feeling about Black Hole Sun dude.
Josh Dean: I know right? It's nice to finally send those cowards packing. But be prepared man. They're not going to want to take any prisoners at Black Hole Sun. What we just did means war. We need to be ready for what's coming.
Cameron Stone: I don't know if I subscribe to that man. I'll come to bat for my friends, but I'm not here to get involved in a full on war Josh. I just got done one of those with Sam. Getting caught up in this crap isn't why I stayed around after Curtain Call.
Josh Dean: You're right, you did just get done with a war. And look at the results. Samael is back on the right path. You literally achieved everything you set out to do. You won the International Championship AND you pulled Samael back from the brink and got him on the right side again.
Cameron Stone: Yeah. And it was bloody exhausting. I don't need to get drawn into another huge personal vendetta. I'm here to enjoy the profession, not let it consume me.
Josh Dean: But look at what you achieved man! If you can turn even half of that to this fight, it could be the missing piece we all need to end this reign of terror the WFWF is under right now! Are you prepared to just let these guys win? Look at what Trace and Drakz did to you tonight? They stacked the odds against you for your title match and kept you distracted so that Crowe could ambush you. How are you just ok with that?
Cameron Stone: I'm not alright with it Josh. That's why at Black Hole Sun, I'm going to kick Crowe's ass and take his title.
Josh Dean: What if you being out there alone and Crowe having Tyme out there ends up costing you your championship?
Cameron Stone: Then I guess I walk out of there without it. But I'll still leave that man with a beating he won't forget either way. There are more important things that titles Josh.
Josh Dean: That's easy for you to say now. Unlike Sam and I, you still have your title. You didn't have it taken from you two minutes after you won it.
Cameron Stone: You're right. But I also realize that getting there in the first place is the accomplishment, at least to me. Take pride in what you earned. Instead of focusing on the fact that it was taken from you, work your ass off and get it again.
There is a pause, as Josh contemplates that point. The silence in the room isn't very comfortable, the only noise heard during the pause in conversation is that of the arena crew packing things away in the hallway outside. Finally, Josh begins talking again, trying to turn the conversation to the upcoming pay per view event.
Josh Dean: So what's your plan for the match with Crowe? You have something up your sleeve to help you even the odds?
Cameron Stone: Come on Josh, you know me better than that by now. I'm not the man with a plan. I go out there and improvise. If I have a plan, it's to go out there and hit Crowe harder than he's even been hit before. Punch him in the face hard enough it's going to rattle his ancestors. He usually has a huge size advantage over his opponents. Not the case here.
Josh Dean: He's still got four inches on you Cam. Not sure that's the best plan you could have. What about Justin Tyme? Are you accounting for him being out there?
Cameron Stone: I've slammed bigger people that Lucas Crowe before. He's bigger, but not so much it's really going to make a difference. This is going to be two bulls going at it. We're going to keep hitting each other until one of us goes down. As for Tyme, I've dealt with the man before. If he gets involved I'm going to hit him too. I've put him in the hospital before, I'm not afraid to do it again.
Josh Dean: See, that's what I'm talking about! Now you're sounding like a man who will do what he has to do to get the job done!
Cameron Stone: The difference with me is I will retaliate. I'm not going to initiate those tactics. I won't spend the match looking for an opportunity to hit a cheap shot and put him down. If Crowe kicks me low, you're damn right I'll kick him back. But it isn't going to be me firing the first round.
Josh Dean: So what happens if they fire first and it's hard enough to put you down? Then you can't fire back. You KNOW they're going to try something. I don't know if letting them is the smartest play.
Cameron punches the locker, hitting it hard enough to send a loud clang! through the room and silence Josh. A fist shaped indentation is left in the locker door, and a small trickle of blood flows from a cut on Stone's middle knuckle.
Cameron Stone: For me it's the only play Josh! I don't want to be like them. I don't want to go to a dark place because then I'm just part of the problem. Don't fall into the trap of going to that bad place. You think that maybe just this once I'll do something excessive to get the job done. It's understandable. It is a much easier way of doing things. I know, that used to be me. The problem is, once you start down that path, then it becomes easier every time to go back there. Going just a little bit further over the edge doesn't seem like such a big deal. Then you get stuck. Because why would you want to retrace your steps, get back on the long way around and start over? That's a lot of extra work. It took me YEARS to do it, and even I struggle sometimes with my past demons. If I have that much trouble with it, I can't even imagine how it would affect you. I'm a hell of a lot stronger than you mentally.
Josh Dean: You really think that? I've got a lot more accomplishments than you. I don't know if I like you calling me weaker, doesn't sound like something a friend would say.
Cameron Stone: Oh I have no doubt you're a better wrestler than me Josh. I said mentally strong. Look at how much Drakz and Trace are under your skin now? Hell, you seem more worried about my title match than I do! I'm only saying this because you're my friend and I care about you! We need to be strong! We need to have our heads on straight if we want to come out on top here! This self doubt and stressing about the deck being stacked against us in playing in their hands! It's what they want! Don't let them get under your skin! You never used to let it get to you like this! I need to remain strong here for my wife and daughter! I want Sarah to be able to look back on what I did years from now and be proud of her father. I want her to learn to do the right thing from me. I need to be a role model. What would Nikki think of where your head is at right now?
Josh grits his teeth when Cameron mentions Nikki's name, not expecting something like that out of Stone. After taking a moment to breath, he stands up and begins pacing the room while he talks.
Josh Dean: I know what you're saying man. It's just that the thought of those smug jackasses staying on their lofty perch while we struggle down here to carve out a little piece of the pie for ourselves is getting to me. It feels like too much. Especially when I feel like I can do something to stop it, you know?
Cameron Stone: I know Josh. I'm not going to pretend I'm on some level above you here. I have these thoughts too. I've just trained myself to not let my emotions dictate that kind of response. It's easy to fight fire with fire. And it feels good to do it. The problem is afterwards. We risk burning the whole village down. What's left after we win like that? Worst case scenario, we become exactly what we're trying to destroy right now, and we end up a cautionary tale, and the next new wave of guys that come in are going to want to hunt us like we want to hunt Trace, Drakz and Crowe. And thus continues the circle of bullcrap that never seems to end.
Josh Dean: What if we lose? What then? We're the best hope to end this cycle. What is we aren't strong enough to do it?
Cameron Stone: Then we lose. And we hope that we inspire others to take up the fight. There will always be new talent. There will always be somebody better than us that comes later. Nobody stays in power forever. Everyone has that shelf life. I believe we can be the ones to forge a new path to a better future for the WFWF. We need to do it on our terms though.
Josh Dean: I feel like you're going to win at the pay per view. There is no way Crowe is beating you. No matter if you're alone or not. You will win. You HAVE to win. Show them they can't push us around.
Cameron Stone: I already feel like I got a small victory here tonight. Think about it. They tried putting me into a match defending my championship, and I flipped the script. I might be going it alone out there at Black Hole Sun, but it's a unification match, Crowe's title is on the line too. I did that my way. Without going to their level.
Josh Dean: Yeah, by threatening to walk out of the WFWF with your title. Real good thing to do to the fans. That's your example of trying to convince me to fight this war in a noble way?
Cameron Stone: It kind of hurts me that you give me so little credit. It's true the way my contract is structured, I can walk away anytime without repercussions or legal liability. But I wouldn't do that as long as I'm champion. I'm a champion of the people, I wouldn't walk out on them. As long as this title is around my waist, I'll be here for them guaranteed. I thought for sure Drakz was going to call my bluff. But he didn't. He backed down and gave me what I wanted. I did that. I got one over on them. Remember that Josh, I just proved it is possible tonight.
Josh Dean: You sly devil! I should have known better than to doubt you! You're right. That's huge. Maybe we can do this the right way after all. I'm prepared to do whatever it takes. But I think we can take these bastards down a peg or two just by being tenacious. Let's wear them out. Show them no matter how hard they hit us we can come back for more. You're the International Champion. I won the World Championship. Samael won the National Championship. With both me and Samael, they went to cheap, extreme lengths to steal their championships back. They wouldn't do that unless they were scared.
Cameron Stone: You're damn right Josh. We've shown how vulnerable they are. They can boast about how weak we are all they want. We know when they tell us we are a mere annoyance that they are lying. They are starting to get backed into a corner, and the walls are closing in. They can't stay on their throne forever without someone coming to kick them off.
Josh Dean: We've proven they can bleed. They aren't invincible. We can take them out.
Cameron Stone: This thing you're feeling right now? It's hope. I can see it in your eyes. You were down after being screwed out of the championship. But no matter how hard it is, you need to lift yourself back up. Take the victory as the proof that you're good enough to be the top guy. Light a candle instead of cursing the darkness. Because what's the point in achieving victory if you lose your soul doing it?
Josh claps Cameron on the back, and nods.
Josh Dean: Thanks man. Before Curtain Call it was me who had to give you a pep talk and lift you're spirits. I guess it was my day to need one. You've given me a lot to think about. It's probably going to keep me awake tonight, so thanks for that. I don't know what I'm going to end up doing in the end. But it's good to know I have a friend like you who has my back when I need it.
Cameron Stone: Anytime man. You know I'm always a phone call away if you need anything. Now, let's get out of here and go get something to eat, we've earned a feast after tonight.
Josh Dean: Sounds like a plan. What do you have in mind?
Cameron Stone: We're in Montreal! This is where poutine was invented pretty much! Best poutine in the world is in this city, and I know all the good places! We are going to go eat, drink and be very merry!
The two men walk out of the dressing room with their bags, heading towards the parking lot, both men talking and laughing, and just generally enjoying the moment.
**********
Holding his daughter Sarah in his arms, rocking her gently so that she calms down enough to fall asleep, Cameron Stone looks happy. Even the fact that his daughter had been just moments before crying for over an hour nonstop wasn't enough to tank his mood, as he was just happy to be spending time at home with her. She finally had calmed down, which caused him to slowly walk her from the hallway into her room, where he laid her down in her crib. Covering her with her blanket, he laid a gentle kiss on her forehead before slowly backing out of the room so as not to disturb her. In the hallway as he turned around, wife Christy was right behind him, which caused him to jump a little, though he stopped from yelling out in order to keep Sarah calm. Christy grinned.
I'm still surprised at how good you are with her. I'm really glad that you could make some time to stay with us before you head to Boston. I know how busy you've been.
Well, it was perfect timing. I don't start filming again until the end of May. So I figured why not come home, see you and Sarah, relax and calm my nerves before the big match.
Christy raises her eyebrow and gives Cameron an "Oh really?" type of look.
Calm your nerves? So you think you get to stroll right on in here, and have me do everything for you, to make you feel good? Hell no honey, that isn't how tonight is going to work. This week is for me.
Uh oh, I just said something that upset you, didn't I?
Oh no, I'm not mad. I'm actually very happy you're home. I'm not one of those wives that resents you for being on the road all the time. You're providing for us, and you're happy. Which makes me happy. But that doesn't change the fact that I get stuck with all the dirty work. I get to change all of the diapers, clean the house, do all the chores and shopping, while you get off easy.
I see where this is going. And in fairness, I DID get Dare Evans to agree to mow the lawn for you.
And I do appreciate that. But if you think I'm going to immediately bend to that charm of yours Cam, you are so very mistaken.
So what happens now then?
It means that if you want me to make you comfortable, that you're going to have to take care of me first. And by that I mean you owe me a night of being treated like a goddess. Then, and only then, will I reward you.
Making you feel like a goddess is reward enough.
How is it that you always know exactly what to say to get me going?
You once told me I was a silver tongued devil. I know how to use my tongue. Both verbally and in other ways. All of which you will experience this week.
Well tell me Mr. Devil, what do you have planned for tonight?
How about a candlelit dinner, followed by a full body massage. And I can continue on after that with whatever you want me to do.
Christy lets out a quiet moan of pleasure.
Oh, and I'll also handle all of the dishes and clean up. And I'll change Sarah tonight. Total and complete relaxation for you tonight. A night clear of any work and responsibilities.
I knew I made the right choice marrying you.
The two begin to kiss, but after just a few moments, Cameron breaks away.
As much as I'd love to do this now, I promised you dinner. That means I've got to go to the store and pick out something to make. I'll be back before you know it.
Cameron moves towards the door, grabbing the car keys from the hook beside it, and he slips outside. Christy moves to the window and watches as he gets into the car, before laying on the couch and grabbing a book off the coffee table.
**********
Two years ago I sought out Phillip Schneider for advice leading into my comeback at Superbrawl. I did this because he was one of the all time greats, and he was the king of the ultraviolent match. A lot of my career had been defined by stipulation matches as well up to that point, so I thought maybe he could give me some insight coming back after a long time away and stepping back into that world. I like to think that he saw something in me, because he actually met me. Schneider didn't just talk to anyone. I was especially surprised he agreed to meet me considering that three months into my career I called him out and acted like a snot nosed little punk and nearly got myself murdered at his hands. But at the time, I was desperate. Going into Superbrawl, I didn't know how to tackle my match with Penny Shannon. I had already started to become such a different man than I had been in my career prior to that moment, that the idea of throwing down into such a violent match was kind of daunting. I didn't know if I was capable of it anymore. Schneider's advice left me conflicted that day. In fact, at the time it didn't feel like it helped me very much, if at all. I just felt dirty and uncomfortable. At first, he told me to pants her right off the bat, and embarrass her. I naturally was very confused, but after that, Schneider got serious. He basically told me I couldn't make money and be happy with my family while continuing to wrestle. His advice was to either leave wrestling entirely to follow my acting and journalism career, or to go back to my old full on psycho mode in the ring again. Apparently, without that killer instinct wrestling, and the WFWF in particular would eat me up alive and leave nothing but a useless, broken husk behind, one that had no other life skills or options to pursue in life.
That made me doubt myself. In hindsight, however, it was a meeting that changed my life. Not for the reasons that Schneider intended or had laid out though. It made me realize that for all his achievements in the ring, and for how good he was, Phillip Schneider wasn't a man to envy or look up to. He was in many ways nothing but a broken man. He was tired. Victorious in the ring, but defeated in life. He had given up. That's why he tapped out at Superbrawl. For as good of a match as that was, he didn't have it in him anymore. In his own mind, he was already the loser.
But do you know who did win at Superbrawl? Me. After a long stretch of being inactive and sitting behind a desk I walked onto the biggest stage I've ever been on, and I won. I literally jumped off that stage in the process, but I won. Two years later, here I am, the International Champion. I'm also a successful actor. I'm doing a podcast that I'm having a ton of fun with. Truth be told I'm probably making more money than anyone else in the WFWF at this point. I'm doing multiple things I love, and me and my family are happy. Every single thing that Schneider told me would happen was wrong. None of it came to pass.
So I've been thinking about how useless Schneider's advice was. The only part of it I used was the embarrass Penny part he was joking about, when I kissed her during the match. I didn't make much use of my meeting with him, but I still had an epiphany about it. That encounter had major benefits to me. It shaped my career path. Seeing what he had become made me realize I never want to become that myself. I became determined to never reach the point of being such an empty shell of a man. I even got myself healthy and took care of myself better than I've ever done before just do I could be in the best shape of my life so I wouldn't be the near dead sack of skin you told me I'd end up as. So I owe Phillip Schneider a thank you. It wasn't what you intended, but you gave me the push to become the man I am today.
There used to be a time when I believed I would never amount to anything in the WFWF. I'm not some legend or anything, but I've done alright for myself when it's all said and done. Back in 2014 at the show Twisted was the night that even in failure I proved I had something to offer. I showed my true talent that night against Drakz. I may have lost that match, but I still pinned him. I don't want to glorify a loss too much, but it was a big deal to me. It was the first fall. If it had been the second fall, it wouldn't have mattered at all, since he would have already beaten me. But to get that first pinfall on him, knowing if the match had been one fall to a finish that victory would have been mine, was something that gave me hope. I saw for that brief moment that panic in his eyes, and I like to think that moment made Drakz realize he wasn't invincible. That night was the moment I believed in myself. I truly believed I could do anything after that moment. Curtain Call against Samael Ahriman was where I proved that I could.
Not many people win two separate championships at the WFWF level. When you break down the amount of superstars that have walked through those doors, it's a small percentage that hold that distinction. Shortly into my acting career not many people reach the level I'm at there either. To have roles in a Marvel and Star Wars movie and be a brand ambassador for Disney is about as big as you can get. When I got my first couple of small film roles, everyone I knew kept telling me not to put too much stock into this career path because of how hard it was to make it. I'm making a habit out of defying expectations wherever I go and in whatever I do. Even with this match, despite my years of experience, I'm being looked at by many as the underdog. Some things never change. It doesn't make me angry though. I'm beginning to like it. I thrive on being underestimated. That's what helped me win the International Championship in the first place. That's also hopefully what will help me keep it. Because I realize that where everyone else calls me an underdog, that I've come to become a bit of a big match performer. The bigger the stage, the better I seem to do. The match I mentioned against Drakz, where despite losing, I gave one of my best performances. My match at Superbrawl against Penny, which I won after over a year away from the ring. I defeated Ace Bennett in the aftermath of Superbrawl, when nobody said I could do that. I defeated Samael to win the International Championship when the consensus was that I didn't have it in me to reach that level or beat such a high caliber of opponent. I came an inch away from winning the tag team titles. I thrive under pressure, and Lucas Crowe is about to realize that, and be in for the match of his life.
I'm busier than I've ever been, but happier than ever too. My marriage is going great, my daughter is is beautiful, and all of the pieces are finally falling into place. I know there is more to life than the WFWF. I continue to wrestle because I enjoy it, not because I need to. I take it seriously, but not like it's a matter of life and death like some people here seem to. Once you let this industry consume you and allow it to dictate every action in your life, you start missing the point.
Going into Black Hole Sun, the pressure isn't as high as I thought it would be. I've already walked out of my first title defense still champion when me and Penny fought to a brutal draw, so this has already been more successful than my original National Championship reign. So now I can just go out there and do what I do. Battle against the odds and let the chips fall where they may. Does it bother me slightly that I can't have any backup with me out there, while Crowe is allowed to have whoever he wants? Sure. But there is nothng I can do about that, so there isn't any use stressing out about it. I'm just going to go out there and kick however much ass I need to.
That being said, I still really want to win, and I'm going to give it everything I have, that's what the fans deserve. Unifying two championships together isn't an everyday occurance. It's a big deal, and would cement my place in history. It would define my legacy. It would be something that could never be taken away from me. Since it would be combining the National Championship with my title, it would also help redeem my awful reign with that championship as well. It would bring that National Title back home.
Speaking of short championship runs, I feel bad for my friend Josh Dean. I would say I can relate, but my short reign was due to my own fault in losing it, while he got screwed over after legitimately winning the World Title. But he's going to claw his way back to that title if it kills him, because that's the type of man he is. Once he's done dealing with Trace in the cage, if Drakz is still champion, he had better pray, because Josh has been like a man possessed since he got screwed. I'm grateful to be on his side and not against him right now. Josh and my other friends here make this place fun.
I also enjoy my strange relationship with Penny Shannon. Good friends, better enemies. It's interesting to have such an intense rivalry with an ally. If she asks, I've got her back, but I want to face her again, the ideal situation being a Superbrawl rematch after we both win at Black Hole Sun, I feel like we bring the best out of each other. It's funny to think that if she hadn't dived out of the ring onto me at the announce table two years ago I may never have returned to active competition. I didn't realize how much I had missed doing this. I may not have ever had a Superbrawl moment, or won the International Title if it wasn't for her. She gave me the slap in the face I needed. I hope we get to have a rubber match sometime, One win, one loss and one draw with each other. I'd hate to leave it like that. The rubber match is pretty much the main thing I need to do before stepping away again. My career wouldn't feel complete without it. The hardcore trilogy, as I like to refer to our series was a great set of matches. If we ever do a rubber match, I'd like to see it be a regular match, to really test ourselves against one another in this industries most pure form. It's crazy to think that this is my main goal to do before my career ends instead of winning the World Title. It just shows how I view the business at this point I suppose.
With the power Trace Demon holds here, I'm surprised at me getting such a nice, lucrative part time schedule. He most definitely had the power to impact that if he had chosen, and I've gotten the impression that he isn't the biggest fan of me. Then again I bring a lot of exposure to the WFWF through my mainstream appeal and huge popularity. He's likely just enjoying capitalizing on that. I've also kept out of his way for the most part, until I helped Sam defeat Crowe. So who knows, maybe the deck being stacked like it is courtesy of him is more of a warning shot to stay out of his business. The problem with that is that type of behavior is more likely to cause me to do something stupid and oppose him more. I wasn't a part of this war before, but it feels like I'm being dragged in.
With how corrupt and awful the top of the food chain here in WFWF is, I'm really excited about this sudden influx of new talent flooding in. This company needs some fresh blood. Things have been getting stale, and the fresh faces like Brandon Bison and Trevor Wolf may help usher this company into a new era. I want to eventually go up against some of these fresh faces, to see what they've got. Hopefully they persist and don't give up if the beginning of their careers are a struggle. I'm walking proof that sticking with it will eventually lead to success.
The talent has made me think that a nice eventual career path would be to become a manager. I'd be picky about my potential clients though, I'd have tough standards for them. And unlike someone like Justin Tyme, I wouldn't try to live through any clients I'd take, and just think of myself. I would legitimately try to have their best interests in mind, and get them to the highest level of success they could reach. We don't really have any managers around here like that, and that's a shame. Letting someone like Tyme have the spotlight as the go to manager around here makes me sick.
Congratulations are in order to Daniel Knight on his promotion to my former position at the commentary table. You still get some abuse there Daniel, but not as much as you do being the main interviewer. I miss that job, connecting with all of the fans and people was awesome. But I couldn't keep the position with all my other commitments. Daniel is doing a great job with it. It's nice to have someone who calls it straight and like it is. No corporate puppets there.
You know, people have been questioning how well I can do in the ring wrestling so little. I train five days a week since I need to stay in shape for acting. I incorporate wrestling training into that still. I don't ignore it. I'm in the best shape of my life, physically and medically. I do tons of cardio, and I'm prepared for a long match. Stuff like Superbrawl prove I can go into that ring off a long time away and still do well. Ring rust isn't even a concern in my mind. I consider it an advantage how fresh I am. Crowe will be coming in beat up from the grind. I'm ready to go.
Speaking of Lucas Crowe, it's time to go fully into him, He is a tough opponent. He's been making waves since his debut, lots of quick success. He is a big, strong guy who has a knack for hurting people. He's got a mean streak. Reminds me of myself back in 2012 in that way. The difference there that makes him tougher is who he surrounds himself with. He has the Wreckers ready to go, and he always has his cheerleader Justin at ringside. Keeping tabs on all of them at all times is hard. Eyes in the back of your head isn't enough, you need three hundred and sixty degree vision.
The one thing I know about Crowe is that for all his size and god given gifts, is that he is nothing but a coward. He gave up his freedom and individuality in order to rely on Tyme and everyone else he has helping him, rather than doing things himself like he is more than capable of. I think the most depressing thing about this situation is that if Crowe manages to defeat me, Justin Tyme will treat it like his own personal accomplishment, as if it was his own victory. Tyme won't be able to resist using a victory as a sort of payback from our history together. The story of the match would become one of Tyme's revenge rather than Crowe's accomplishment. I wish Crowe would man up and face me alone so that couldn't happen. He needs to stop letting Tyme live through him since he isn't capable of doing this anymore. That is another reason I need to win this match. I can't see a new talent have their biggest accomplishment end up being tainted like that. It's the type of thing that can ruin a career in hindsight. Tyme is a snake. You're supposed to play the music and make them dance to your tune, not the other way around.
I will do what I can to retain my championship. I don't want to go down the route of dirty tactics, but I will fight fire with fire. I know Crowe and his gang aren't going to play nice, so I will match whatever they do. I won't hesitate to knock Tyme's head off if he gets involved. I'm not putting up with any crap, so help him if he tests me.
Lucas thinks he is making a smart decision, siding with Trace and Drakz. It's paid in the short term. They pulled some strings for him and handed him the National Title back right after he won it, so he didn't have to experience true adversity. But keep in mind Crowe, short term gain doesn't always lead to sustained success. Once Trace and Drakz are done using you, and the moment they begin to consider you a threat to themselves, they will put you down. And at that point, even your buddy Justin Tyme will abandon you, and he will just go find another hotshot prospect who he can manipulate to make money, while you get left with all the broken relationships you're partnership left behind. And everyone will be talking about Lucas Crowe, the man who had tons of talent but never could live up to his potential. Tyme out there isn't going to be as much support as you think in our match. Because of his past with me, he's going to be a bit more anxious about involved. He knows what I'll do to him and exactly what I'm capable of. He knows I'm going to drop him if he tries anything. He won't even provide as much support as a training bra out there. If you're counting on outside help to be the ace up your sleeve I'm afraid you've got no chance at all. Come to play Crowe, otherwise I'm going to put you down like a sick dog. You are used to using your size advantage to bully around your opponents. I may not be quite as big as you, but you aren't much bigger than me. I'm also faster than you are. You're typical gameplan won't work on me. You better have something special in mind. You're going to need it.
I'm officially dedicating this match at Black Hole Sun to the memory of Shawn Malakai. He helped me to become a better wrestler and a better person, and the reminder in his will of the type of man I need to be hit home hard. He also made sure to teach me winning isn't the most important, giving it your all is. Show up, go to work and be proud of the job you did. This one is for you Shawn. I will do everything in my power to continue the Stone Age and defeat Crowe. That is Set in Stone.
March 15, 2016
Sitting in his car, his cell phone in hand, Cameron is deep in thought. He has a number pulled up on his phone, all he would have to do to make the call is press one button. But a part of him is nervous about the phone call. It's a conversation that's been a long time coming, but has been put off for so long now that finally initiating it is proving to be a challenge. Finally, Cameron grits his teeth and hits the call button, and raises the phone to his ear. After three rings, it's answered, the voice on the other end completely calm and collected, but with that slight edge of ferocity that it's always had.
Samael: Cameron, I must admit, I wasn't expecting your call. Though I wasn't expecting you to make an appearance last night during my match either. So maybe I shouldn't be surprised.
Cameron: Yeah. Sorry about getting out of there so quickly. If I had known the crap they were going to pull on you, I'd have stuck around.
Samael: It's probably for the best that you didn't stay. You'd only be a bigger target, and you'd be facing much larger consequences.
Cameron: Maybe. But you know better than anyone that I can take care of myself just fine. I'm a big boy. I'm not scared of anyone. I've had my ass kick plenty of times. Will have it kicked plenty more in the future. Doesn't really matter.
Samael: Why did you call me Cameron? We haven't really spoken since Curtain Call. Let's avoid the chit chat, and get to the point.
Cameron: Alright then. It's two things really. First, I wanted to see how you were doing after Shawn's passing. I know it's been tough on me. Keeping myself ridiculously busy has probably been the only reason I'm getting through it as easily as I am. And you've been his main contact over the last year, so I can only imagine what it's like for you.
Samael: I'm still working towards the mission. It isn't easy, but I'm doing fine. What else do you need?
Cameron: I wanted to tell you that I'm happy to see the direction you're heading in. You probably don't care what I think, but you're truly on the right side now. Maybe you always were. You're taking the fight where it needs to go. I'm not cocky enough to think I have anything to do with it, and I wanted to say that I'm sorry for not having enough faith in you. I got caught up in a crusade, and I didn't keep an open mind. So whenever I can, from now on, I got your back.
Samael: Thank you. What brought on this sudden change, if I may ask?
Cameron: One of those wise sage moments from Shawn Malakai in the last conversation I had with him before he died.
Samael: I'm surprised he got involved in our fight. I was under the impression he was going to be keeping out of it for the most part, and letting us deal with it ourselves.
Cameron: Oh he did keep out of it. He didn't talk to me about it until after I beat you. We had a couple of conversations steer that way after that,
Samael: He didn't mention those to me.
Cameron: I'd imagine that's because he generally didn't like playing people off of one another. He doesn't just go around telling everyone what other people said. Not to mention, you were taking care of him more than anyone else in the end. He wasn't about to put any more weight on your shoulders. You've got enough of a burden as is.
Samael: So what did he tell you then?
Cameron: He told me how hypocritical it was of me to not give you another chance when I'm living off a second chance myself. I'm a changed man. And that is only because of the opportunities people gave me to become one. He asked me what kind of friend I'd be to not give you a chance. He told me if I abandoned you entirely, that I'd be setting a bad example.
Samael: After what we went through, and all of the things that we did to each other, I'm not so sure things with us can ever be the same as they were.
Cameron: I don't either. But if we can find a common ground, we can evolve. We tore our friendship down, but maybe we can build something else on the foundation.
Samael: What if it isn't built as strong as it used to be? Would it still be worth the effort it will take to rebuild it?
Cameron: I suppose only time would tell. But I think not trying would be the wrong move.
A long pause occurs, with neither man saying a thing.
Cameron: Do you know what Shawn left me in his will?
Samael: No. I can't say I really paid any attention to that. I've been busy with other aspects of his estate. The subject of you hasn't come up at all.
Cameron: Well, he didn't leave me any money or anything like that. Said the income I'm making with my acting and everything would make that pointless. He left me the advice I've been sharing with you just now. The note he left me basically begged me to forgive you, and to work with you. My interference on your behalf last night was my attempt to start that. Shawn also left me one physical item. A framed photograph of the three of us together backstage. I believe it's from Superbrawl, before the show began, but I'm not entirely sure of that. All three of us look happy in that picture. That's how I want to remember Shawn, and what I'd llike to get back to with you, or at least closer to that end of the spectrum.
Samael: Well, the next couple months are going to be intense as hell. Knowing you're not my enemy anymore is a good start.
Cameron: One less distraction for you en route to becoming a grand slam champion.
Samael: This is starting to get a little too sappy now.
Cameron: That sounds like as close to a "We're Good" as I'm going to get.
Samael: Take it however you like. By the way, I couldn't help but notice that WFWF.com had you incorrectly listed as being a few inches shorter than you are and about 30 pounds lighter. Since when did you become a midget?
Cameron: That has since been corrected, thank you very much! And are you really surprised? Trace and Drakz has been trying to sell me short for years. And they probably want to take my legs out from under me after I helped you and butted into their business.
Samael groans at the puns said by Cameron.
Samael: I've got some things I've got to take care of. Can we wrap this up for now?
Cameron: Sure, sure. One more thing though. I just wanted to say thank you Sam.
Samael: For what?
Cameron: Losing the National Title so quickly. Remember back in 2012 when I won it and lost it on the very next show, resulting in basically the shortest title run in company history with that championship? Now I no longer have the shortest reign hanging over my head. That feels nice. Anyways, you said you have to go, so I'll talk to you later man.
Samael: You're welcome, jackass.
Cameron ends the call, and tosses his phone into the passenger seat of his car. He fires up the vehicle and drives away.
**********
The following is taken from an episode of The Stone Age Podcast.
First things first here, I've got to give a shout out to Lindsey Stirling for providing my new theme song, Heist. I'm pretty sure I may be the first WFWF Superstar ever to use a violin medley as my theme song. I appreciate the hard work, talent and passion that goes into this music, and the fact that it's so unique makes it fit me like a glove.
Now onto more serious business. My thoughts in regards to the passing of Shawn Malakai.
Shawn Malakai was a better friend than I deserved. He was always there and ready to talk through it all, from my early years and even during my 2012 run where I went out of my way to alienate everyone. He patiently waited for the day I came back. He was the one constant in my career. That's why I've thought so much about him in these last couple of years. As his career was ending, I wanted to achieve more than I ever had before, because he wanted to see me do better. When I put myself down, he raised me up. Winning the International Championship before he passed away was a huge moment for me, knowing he got to see me reach that level, like he always told me I could. But I also feel bad that winning it came with me taking out Samael, his closest friend and confidant. I hope by helping Sam at Dark Matter I created a balance. Now Sam is in the world title picture while I'm not, so perhaps me winning the International Title was the best thing for both of us. We have a chance to stand together at the top of the mountain now. Shawn would have loved to see that. Wherever you are Shawn, I hope we're square now. Rest in peace my friend.
First things first here, I've got to give a shout out to Lindsey Stirling for providing my new theme song, Heist. I'm pretty sure I may be the first WFWF Superstar ever to use a violin medley as my theme song. I appreciate the hard work, talent and passion that goes into this music, and the fact that it's so unique makes it fit me like a glove.
Now onto more serious business. My thoughts in regards to the passing of Shawn Malakai.
Shawn Malakai was a better friend than I deserved. He was always there and ready to talk through it all, from my early years and even during my 2012 run where I went out of my way to alienate everyone. He patiently waited for the day I came back. He was the one constant in my career. That's why I've thought so much about him in these last couple of years. As his career was ending, I wanted to achieve more than I ever had before, because he wanted to see me do better. When I put myself down, he raised me up. Winning the International Championship before he passed away was a huge moment for me, knowing he got to see me reach that level, like he always told me I could. But I also feel bad that winning it came with me taking out Samael, his closest friend and confidant. I hope by helping Sam at Dark Matter I created a balance. Now Sam is in the world title picture while I'm not, so perhaps me winning the International Title was the best thing for both of us. We have a chance to stand together at the top of the mountain now. Shawn would have loved to see that. Wherever you are Shawn, I hope we're square now. Rest in peace my friend.
**********
April 4, 2016
Walking through the parking lot backstage, still holding the barbed wire hockey stick and singapore cane respectively, Cameron Stone and Josh Dean are both grinning ear to ear at the events that just transpired.
Cameron Stone: Man, it feels nice to close a show standing tall! It seems like it's always the other way around. Now, we've got the momentum for once. I have a good feeling about Black Hole Sun dude.
Josh Dean: I know right? It's nice to finally send those cowards packing. But be prepared man. They're not going to want to take any prisoners at Black Hole Sun. What we just did means war. We need to be ready for what's coming.
Cameron Stone: I don't know if I subscribe to that man. I'll come to bat for my friends, but I'm not here to get involved in a full on war Josh. I just got done one of those with Sam. Getting caught up in this crap isn't why I stayed around after Curtain Call.
Josh Dean: You're right, you did just get done with a war. And look at the results. Samael is back on the right path. You literally achieved everything you set out to do. You won the International Championship AND you pulled Samael back from the brink and got him on the right side again.
Cameron Stone: Yeah. And it was bloody exhausting. I don't need to get drawn into another huge personal vendetta. I'm here to enjoy the profession, not let it consume me.
Josh Dean: But look at what you achieved man! If you can turn even half of that to this fight, it could be the missing piece we all need to end this reign of terror the WFWF is under right now! Are you prepared to just let these guys win? Look at what Trace and Drakz did to you tonight? They stacked the odds against you for your title match and kept you distracted so that Crowe could ambush you. How are you just ok with that?
Cameron Stone: I'm not alright with it Josh. That's why at Black Hole Sun, I'm going to kick Crowe's ass and take his title.
Josh Dean: What if you being out there alone and Crowe having Tyme out there ends up costing you your championship?
Cameron Stone: Then I guess I walk out of there without it. But I'll still leave that man with a beating he won't forget either way. There are more important things that titles Josh.
Josh Dean: That's easy for you to say now. Unlike Sam and I, you still have your title. You didn't have it taken from you two minutes after you won it.
Cameron Stone: You're right. But I also realize that getting there in the first place is the accomplishment, at least to me. Take pride in what you earned. Instead of focusing on the fact that it was taken from you, work your ass off and get it again.
There is a pause, as Josh contemplates that point. The silence in the room isn't very comfortable, the only noise heard during the pause in conversation is that of the arena crew packing things away in the hallway outside. Finally, Josh begins talking again, trying to turn the conversation to the upcoming pay per view event.
Josh Dean: So what's your plan for the match with Crowe? You have something up your sleeve to help you even the odds?
Cameron Stone: Come on Josh, you know me better than that by now. I'm not the man with a plan. I go out there and improvise. If I have a plan, it's to go out there and hit Crowe harder than he's even been hit before. Punch him in the face hard enough it's going to rattle his ancestors. He usually has a huge size advantage over his opponents. Not the case here.
Josh Dean: He's still got four inches on you Cam. Not sure that's the best plan you could have. What about Justin Tyme? Are you accounting for him being out there?
Cameron Stone: I've slammed bigger people that Lucas Crowe before. He's bigger, but not so much it's really going to make a difference. This is going to be two bulls going at it. We're going to keep hitting each other until one of us goes down. As for Tyme, I've dealt with the man before. If he gets involved I'm going to hit him too. I've put him in the hospital before, I'm not afraid to do it again.
Josh Dean: See, that's what I'm talking about! Now you're sounding like a man who will do what he has to do to get the job done!
Cameron Stone: The difference with me is I will retaliate. I'm not going to initiate those tactics. I won't spend the match looking for an opportunity to hit a cheap shot and put him down. If Crowe kicks me low, you're damn right I'll kick him back. But it isn't going to be me firing the first round.
Josh Dean: So what happens if they fire first and it's hard enough to put you down? Then you can't fire back. You KNOW they're going to try something. I don't know if letting them is the smartest play.
Cameron punches the locker, hitting it hard enough to send a loud clang! through the room and silence Josh. A fist shaped indentation is left in the locker door, and a small trickle of blood flows from a cut on Stone's middle knuckle.
Cameron Stone: For me it's the only play Josh! I don't want to be like them. I don't want to go to a dark place because then I'm just part of the problem. Don't fall into the trap of going to that bad place. You think that maybe just this once I'll do something excessive to get the job done. It's understandable. It is a much easier way of doing things. I know, that used to be me. The problem is, once you start down that path, then it becomes easier every time to go back there. Going just a little bit further over the edge doesn't seem like such a big deal. Then you get stuck. Because why would you want to retrace your steps, get back on the long way around and start over? That's a lot of extra work. It took me YEARS to do it, and even I struggle sometimes with my past demons. If I have that much trouble with it, I can't even imagine how it would affect you. I'm a hell of a lot stronger than you mentally.
Josh Dean: You really think that? I've got a lot more accomplishments than you. I don't know if I like you calling me weaker, doesn't sound like something a friend would say.
Cameron Stone: Oh I have no doubt you're a better wrestler than me Josh. I said mentally strong. Look at how much Drakz and Trace are under your skin now? Hell, you seem more worried about my title match than I do! I'm only saying this because you're my friend and I care about you! We need to be strong! We need to have our heads on straight if we want to come out on top here! This self doubt and stressing about the deck being stacked against us in playing in their hands! It's what they want! Don't let them get under your skin! You never used to let it get to you like this! I need to remain strong here for my wife and daughter! I want Sarah to be able to look back on what I did years from now and be proud of her father. I want her to learn to do the right thing from me. I need to be a role model. What would Nikki think of where your head is at right now?
Josh grits his teeth when Cameron mentions Nikki's name, not expecting something like that out of Stone. After taking a moment to breath, he stands up and begins pacing the room while he talks.
Josh Dean: I know what you're saying man. It's just that the thought of those smug jackasses staying on their lofty perch while we struggle down here to carve out a little piece of the pie for ourselves is getting to me. It feels like too much. Especially when I feel like I can do something to stop it, you know?
Cameron Stone: I know Josh. I'm not going to pretend I'm on some level above you here. I have these thoughts too. I've just trained myself to not let my emotions dictate that kind of response. It's easy to fight fire with fire. And it feels good to do it. The problem is afterwards. We risk burning the whole village down. What's left after we win like that? Worst case scenario, we become exactly what we're trying to destroy right now, and we end up a cautionary tale, and the next new wave of guys that come in are going to want to hunt us like we want to hunt Trace, Drakz and Crowe. And thus continues the circle of bullcrap that never seems to end.
Josh Dean: What if we lose? What then? We're the best hope to end this cycle. What is we aren't strong enough to do it?
Cameron Stone: Then we lose. And we hope that we inspire others to take up the fight. There will always be new talent. There will always be somebody better than us that comes later. Nobody stays in power forever. Everyone has that shelf life. I believe we can be the ones to forge a new path to a better future for the WFWF. We need to do it on our terms though.
Josh Dean: I feel like you're going to win at the pay per view. There is no way Crowe is beating you. No matter if you're alone or not. You will win. You HAVE to win. Show them they can't push us around.
Cameron Stone: I already feel like I got a small victory here tonight. Think about it. They tried putting me into a match defending my championship, and I flipped the script. I might be going it alone out there at Black Hole Sun, but it's a unification match, Crowe's title is on the line too. I did that my way. Without going to their level.
Josh Dean: Yeah, by threatening to walk out of the WFWF with your title. Real good thing to do to the fans. That's your example of trying to convince me to fight this war in a noble way?
Cameron Stone: It kind of hurts me that you give me so little credit. It's true the way my contract is structured, I can walk away anytime without repercussions or legal liability. But I wouldn't do that as long as I'm champion. I'm a champion of the people, I wouldn't walk out on them. As long as this title is around my waist, I'll be here for them guaranteed. I thought for sure Drakz was going to call my bluff. But he didn't. He backed down and gave me what I wanted. I did that. I got one over on them. Remember that Josh, I just proved it is possible tonight.
Josh Dean: You sly devil! I should have known better than to doubt you! You're right. That's huge. Maybe we can do this the right way after all. I'm prepared to do whatever it takes. But I think we can take these bastards down a peg or two just by being tenacious. Let's wear them out. Show them no matter how hard they hit us we can come back for more. You're the International Champion. I won the World Championship. Samael won the National Championship. With both me and Samael, they went to cheap, extreme lengths to steal their championships back. They wouldn't do that unless they were scared.
Cameron Stone: You're damn right Josh. We've shown how vulnerable they are. They can boast about how weak we are all they want. We know when they tell us we are a mere annoyance that they are lying. They are starting to get backed into a corner, and the walls are closing in. They can't stay on their throne forever without someone coming to kick them off.
Josh Dean: We've proven they can bleed. They aren't invincible. We can take them out.
Cameron Stone: This thing you're feeling right now? It's hope. I can see it in your eyes. You were down after being screwed out of the championship. But no matter how hard it is, you need to lift yourself back up. Take the victory as the proof that you're good enough to be the top guy. Light a candle instead of cursing the darkness. Because what's the point in achieving victory if you lose your soul doing it?
Josh claps Cameron on the back, and nods.
Josh Dean: Thanks man. Before Curtain Call it was me who had to give you a pep talk and lift you're spirits. I guess it was my day to need one. You've given me a lot to think about. It's probably going to keep me awake tonight, so thanks for that. I don't know what I'm going to end up doing in the end. But it's good to know I have a friend like you who has my back when I need it.
Cameron Stone: Anytime man. You know I'm always a phone call away if you need anything. Now, let's get out of here and go get something to eat, we've earned a feast after tonight.
Josh Dean: Sounds like a plan. What do you have in mind?
Cameron Stone: We're in Montreal! This is where poutine was invented pretty much! Best poutine in the world is in this city, and I know all the good places! We are going to go eat, drink and be very merry!
The two men walk out of the dressing room with their bags, heading towards the parking lot, both men talking and laughing, and just generally enjoying the moment.
**********
Holding his daughter Sarah in his arms, rocking her gently so that she calms down enough to fall asleep, Cameron Stone looks happy. Even the fact that his daughter had been just moments before crying for over an hour nonstop wasn't enough to tank his mood, as he was just happy to be spending time at home with her. She finally had calmed down, which caused him to slowly walk her from the hallway into her room, where he laid her down in her crib. Covering her with her blanket, he laid a gentle kiss on her forehead before slowly backing out of the room so as not to disturb her. In the hallway as he turned around, wife Christy was right behind him, which caused him to jump a little, though he stopped from yelling out in order to keep Sarah calm. Christy grinned.
I'm still surprised at how good you are with her. I'm really glad that you could make some time to stay with us before you head to Boston. I know how busy you've been.
Well, it was perfect timing. I don't start filming again until the end of May. So I figured why not come home, see you and Sarah, relax and calm my nerves before the big match.
Christy raises her eyebrow and gives Cameron an "Oh really?" type of look.
Calm your nerves? So you think you get to stroll right on in here, and have me do everything for you, to make you feel good? Hell no honey, that isn't how tonight is going to work. This week is for me.
Uh oh, I just said something that upset you, didn't I?
Oh no, I'm not mad. I'm actually very happy you're home. I'm not one of those wives that resents you for being on the road all the time. You're providing for us, and you're happy. Which makes me happy. But that doesn't change the fact that I get stuck with all the dirty work. I get to change all of the diapers, clean the house, do all the chores and shopping, while you get off easy.
I see where this is going. And in fairness, I DID get Dare Evans to agree to mow the lawn for you.
And I do appreciate that. But if you think I'm going to immediately bend to that charm of yours Cam, you are so very mistaken.
So what happens now then?
It means that if you want me to make you comfortable, that you're going to have to take care of me first. And by that I mean you owe me a night of being treated like a goddess. Then, and only then, will I reward you.
Making you feel like a goddess is reward enough.
How is it that you always know exactly what to say to get me going?
You once told me I was a silver tongued devil. I know how to use my tongue. Both verbally and in other ways. All of which you will experience this week.
Well tell me Mr. Devil, what do you have planned for tonight?
How about a candlelit dinner, followed by a full body massage. And I can continue on after that with whatever you want me to do.
Christy lets out a quiet moan of pleasure.
Oh, and I'll also handle all of the dishes and clean up. And I'll change Sarah tonight. Total and complete relaxation for you tonight. A night clear of any work and responsibilities.
I knew I made the right choice marrying you.
The two begin to kiss, but after just a few moments, Cameron breaks away.
As much as I'd love to do this now, I promised you dinner. That means I've got to go to the store and pick out something to make. I'll be back before you know it.
Cameron moves towards the door, grabbing the car keys from the hook beside it, and he slips outside. Christy moves to the window and watches as he gets into the car, before laying on the couch and grabbing a book off the coffee table.
**********
Two years ago I sought out Phillip Schneider for advice leading into my comeback at Superbrawl. I did this because he was one of the all time greats, and he was the king of the ultraviolent match. A lot of my career had been defined by stipulation matches as well up to that point, so I thought maybe he could give me some insight coming back after a long time away and stepping back into that world. I like to think that he saw something in me, because he actually met me. Schneider didn't just talk to anyone. I was especially surprised he agreed to meet me considering that three months into my career I called him out and acted like a snot nosed little punk and nearly got myself murdered at his hands. But at the time, I was desperate. Going into Superbrawl, I didn't know how to tackle my match with Penny Shannon. I had already started to become such a different man than I had been in my career prior to that moment, that the idea of throwing down into such a violent match was kind of daunting. I didn't know if I was capable of it anymore. Schneider's advice left me conflicted that day. In fact, at the time it didn't feel like it helped me very much, if at all. I just felt dirty and uncomfortable. At first, he told me to pants her right off the bat, and embarrass her. I naturally was very confused, but after that, Schneider got serious. He basically told me I couldn't make money and be happy with my family while continuing to wrestle. His advice was to either leave wrestling entirely to follow my acting and journalism career, or to go back to my old full on psycho mode in the ring again. Apparently, without that killer instinct wrestling, and the WFWF in particular would eat me up alive and leave nothing but a useless, broken husk behind, one that had no other life skills or options to pursue in life.
That made me doubt myself. In hindsight, however, it was a meeting that changed my life. Not for the reasons that Schneider intended or had laid out though. It made me realize that for all his achievements in the ring, and for how good he was, Phillip Schneider wasn't a man to envy or look up to. He was in many ways nothing but a broken man. He was tired. Victorious in the ring, but defeated in life. He had given up. That's why he tapped out at Superbrawl. For as good of a match as that was, he didn't have it in him anymore. In his own mind, he was already the loser.
But do you know who did win at Superbrawl? Me. After a long stretch of being inactive and sitting behind a desk I walked onto the biggest stage I've ever been on, and I won. I literally jumped off that stage in the process, but I won. Two years later, here I am, the International Champion. I'm also a successful actor. I'm doing a podcast that I'm having a ton of fun with. Truth be told I'm probably making more money than anyone else in the WFWF at this point. I'm doing multiple things I love, and me and my family are happy. Every single thing that Schneider told me would happen was wrong. None of it came to pass.
So I've been thinking about how useless Schneider's advice was. The only part of it I used was the embarrass Penny part he was joking about, when I kissed her during the match. I didn't make much use of my meeting with him, but I still had an epiphany about it. That encounter had major benefits to me. It shaped my career path. Seeing what he had become made me realize I never want to become that myself. I became determined to never reach the point of being such an empty shell of a man. I even got myself healthy and took care of myself better than I've ever done before just do I could be in the best shape of my life so I wouldn't be the near dead sack of skin you told me I'd end up as. So I owe Phillip Schneider a thank you. It wasn't what you intended, but you gave me the push to become the man I am today.
There used to be a time when I believed I would never amount to anything in the WFWF. I'm not some legend or anything, but I've done alright for myself when it's all said and done. Back in 2014 at the show Twisted was the night that even in failure I proved I had something to offer. I showed my true talent that night against Drakz. I may have lost that match, but I still pinned him. I don't want to glorify a loss too much, but it was a big deal to me. It was the first fall. If it had been the second fall, it wouldn't have mattered at all, since he would have already beaten me. But to get that first pinfall on him, knowing if the match had been one fall to a finish that victory would have been mine, was something that gave me hope. I saw for that brief moment that panic in his eyes, and I like to think that moment made Drakz realize he wasn't invincible. That night was the moment I believed in myself. I truly believed I could do anything after that moment. Curtain Call against Samael Ahriman was where I proved that I could.
Not many people win two separate championships at the WFWF level. When you break down the amount of superstars that have walked through those doors, it's a small percentage that hold that distinction. Shortly into my acting career not many people reach the level I'm at there either. To have roles in a Marvel and Star Wars movie and be a brand ambassador for Disney is about as big as you can get. When I got my first couple of small film roles, everyone I knew kept telling me not to put too much stock into this career path because of how hard it was to make it. I'm making a habit out of defying expectations wherever I go and in whatever I do. Even with this match, despite my years of experience, I'm being looked at by many as the underdog. Some things never change. It doesn't make me angry though. I'm beginning to like it. I thrive on being underestimated. That's what helped me win the International Championship in the first place. That's also hopefully what will help me keep it. Because I realize that where everyone else calls me an underdog, that I've come to become a bit of a big match performer. The bigger the stage, the better I seem to do. The match I mentioned against Drakz, where despite losing, I gave one of my best performances. My match at Superbrawl against Penny, which I won after over a year away from the ring. I defeated Ace Bennett in the aftermath of Superbrawl, when nobody said I could do that. I defeated Samael to win the International Championship when the consensus was that I didn't have it in me to reach that level or beat such a high caliber of opponent. I came an inch away from winning the tag team titles. I thrive under pressure, and Lucas Crowe is about to realize that, and be in for the match of his life.
I'm busier than I've ever been, but happier than ever too. My marriage is going great, my daughter is is beautiful, and all of the pieces are finally falling into place. I know there is more to life than the WFWF. I continue to wrestle because I enjoy it, not because I need to. I take it seriously, but not like it's a matter of life and death like some people here seem to. Once you let this industry consume you and allow it to dictate every action in your life, you start missing the point.
Going into Black Hole Sun, the pressure isn't as high as I thought it would be. I've already walked out of my first title defense still champion when me and Penny fought to a brutal draw, so this has already been more successful than my original National Championship reign. So now I can just go out there and do what I do. Battle against the odds and let the chips fall where they may. Does it bother me slightly that I can't have any backup with me out there, while Crowe is allowed to have whoever he wants? Sure. But there is nothng I can do about that, so there isn't any use stressing out about it. I'm just going to go out there and kick however much ass I need to.
That being said, I still really want to win, and I'm going to give it everything I have, that's what the fans deserve. Unifying two championships together isn't an everyday occurance. It's a big deal, and would cement my place in history. It would define my legacy. It would be something that could never be taken away from me. Since it would be combining the National Championship with my title, it would also help redeem my awful reign with that championship as well. It would bring that National Title back home.
Speaking of short championship runs, I feel bad for my friend Josh Dean. I would say I can relate, but my short reign was due to my own fault in losing it, while he got screwed over after legitimately winning the World Title. But he's going to claw his way back to that title if it kills him, because that's the type of man he is. Once he's done dealing with Trace in the cage, if Drakz is still champion, he had better pray, because Josh has been like a man possessed since he got screwed. I'm grateful to be on his side and not against him right now. Josh and my other friends here make this place fun.
I also enjoy my strange relationship with Penny Shannon. Good friends, better enemies. It's interesting to have such an intense rivalry with an ally. If she asks, I've got her back, but I want to face her again, the ideal situation being a Superbrawl rematch after we both win at Black Hole Sun, I feel like we bring the best out of each other. It's funny to think that if she hadn't dived out of the ring onto me at the announce table two years ago I may never have returned to active competition. I didn't realize how much I had missed doing this. I may not have ever had a Superbrawl moment, or won the International Title if it wasn't for her. She gave me the slap in the face I needed. I hope we get to have a rubber match sometime, One win, one loss and one draw with each other. I'd hate to leave it like that. The rubber match is pretty much the main thing I need to do before stepping away again. My career wouldn't feel complete without it. The hardcore trilogy, as I like to refer to our series was a great set of matches. If we ever do a rubber match, I'd like to see it be a regular match, to really test ourselves against one another in this industries most pure form. It's crazy to think that this is my main goal to do before my career ends instead of winning the World Title. It just shows how I view the business at this point I suppose.
With the power Trace Demon holds here, I'm surprised at me getting such a nice, lucrative part time schedule. He most definitely had the power to impact that if he had chosen, and I've gotten the impression that he isn't the biggest fan of me. Then again I bring a lot of exposure to the WFWF through my mainstream appeal and huge popularity. He's likely just enjoying capitalizing on that. I've also kept out of his way for the most part, until I helped Sam defeat Crowe. So who knows, maybe the deck being stacked like it is courtesy of him is more of a warning shot to stay out of his business. The problem with that is that type of behavior is more likely to cause me to do something stupid and oppose him more. I wasn't a part of this war before, but it feels like I'm being dragged in.
With how corrupt and awful the top of the food chain here in WFWF is, I'm really excited about this sudden influx of new talent flooding in. This company needs some fresh blood. Things have been getting stale, and the fresh faces like Brandon Bison and Trevor Wolf may help usher this company into a new era. I want to eventually go up against some of these fresh faces, to see what they've got. Hopefully they persist and don't give up if the beginning of their careers are a struggle. I'm walking proof that sticking with it will eventually lead to success.
The talent has made me think that a nice eventual career path would be to become a manager. I'd be picky about my potential clients though, I'd have tough standards for them. And unlike someone like Justin Tyme, I wouldn't try to live through any clients I'd take, and just think of myself. I would legitimately try to have their best interests in mind, and get them to the highest level of success they could reach. We don't really have any managers around here like that, and that's a shame. Letting someone like Tyme have the spotlight as the go to manager around here makes me sick.
Congratulations are in order to Daniel Knight on his promotion to my former position at the commentary table. You still get some abuse there Daniel, but not as much as you do being the main interviewer. I miss that job, connecting with all of the fans and people was awesome. But I couldn't keep the position with all my other commitments. Daniel is doing a great job with it. It's nice to have someone who calls it straight and like it is. No corporate puppets there.
You know, people have been questioning how well I can do in the ring wrestling so little. I train five days a week since I need to stay in shape for acting. I incorporate wrestling training into that still. I don't ignore it. I'm in the best shape of my life, physically and medically. I do tons of cardio, and I'm prepared for a long match. Stuff like Superbrawl prove I can go into that ring off a long time away and still do well. Ring rust isn't even a concern in my mind. I consider it an advantage how fresh I am. Crowe will be coming in beat up from the grind. I'm ready to go.
Speaking of Lucas Crowe, it's time to go fully into him, He is a tough opponent. He's been making waves since his debut, lots of quick success. He is a big, strong guy who has a knack for hurting people. He's got a mean streak. Reminds me of myself back in 2012 in that way. The difference there that makes him tougher is who he surrounds himself with. He has the Wreckers ready to go, and he always has his cheerleader Justin at ringside. Keeping tabs on all of them at all times is hard. Eyes in the back of your head isn't enough, you need three hundred and sixty degree vision.
The one thing I know about Crowe is that for all his size and god given gifts, is that he is nothing but a coward. He gave up his freedom and individuality in order to rely on Tyme and everyone else he has helping him, rather than doing things himself like he is more than capable of. I think the most depressing thing about this situation is that if Crowe manages to defeat me, Justin Tyme will treat it like his own personal accomplishment, as if it was his own victory. Tyme won't be able to resist using a victory as a sort of payback from our history together. The story of the match would become one of Tyme's revenge rather than Crowe's accomplishment. I wish Crowe would man up and face me alone so that couldn't happen. He needs to stop letting Tyme live through him since he isn't capable of doing this anymore. That is another reason I need to win this match. I can't see a new talent have their biggest accomplishment end up being tainted like that. It's the type of thing that can ruin a career in hindsight. Tyme is a snake. You're supposed to play the music and make them dance to your tune, not the other way around.
I will do what I can to retain my championship. I don't want to go down the route of dirty tactics, but I will fight fire with fire. I know Crowe and his gang aren't going to play nice, so I will match whatever they do. I won't hesitate to knock Tyme's head off if he gets involved. I'm not putting up with any crap, so help him if he tests me.
Lucas thinks he is making a smart decision, siding with Trace and Drakz. It's paid in the short term. They pulled some strings for him and handed him the National Title back right after he won it, so he didn't have to experience true adversity. But keep in mind Crowe, short term gain doesn't always lead to sustained success. Once Trace and Drakz are done using you, and the moment they begin to consider you a threat to themselves, they will put you down. And at that point, even your buddy Justin Tyme will abandon you, and he will just go find another hotshot prospect who he can manipulate to make money, while you get left with all the broken relationships you're partnership left behind. And everyone will be talking about Lucas Crowe, the man who had tons of talent but never could live up to his potential. Tyme out there isn't going to be as much support as you think in our match. Because of his past with me, he's going to be a bit more anxious about involved. He knows what I'll do to him and exactly what I'm capable of. He knows I'm going to drop him if he tries anything. He won't even provide as much support as a training bra out there. If you're counting on outside help to be the ace up your sleeve I'm afraid you've got no chance at all. Come to play Crowe, otherwise I'm going to put you down like a sick dog. You are used to using your size advantage to bully around your opponents. I may not be quite as big as you, but you aren't much bigger than me. I'm also faster than you are. You're typical gameplan won't work on me. You better have something special in mind. You're going to need it.
I'm officially dedicating this match at Black Hole Sun to the memory of Shawn Malakai. He helped me to become a better wrestler and a better person, and the reminder in his will of the type of man I need to be hit home hard. He also made sure to teach me winning isn't the most important, giving it your all is. Show up, go to work and be proud of the job you did. This one is for you Shawn. I will do everything in my power to continue the Stone Age and defeat Crowe. That is Set in Stone.
