A Sin Revisited - A Fight Finally Ends
Jan 12, 2023 23:37:18 GMT -5
Lee Stone and TheNewBreed like this
Post by Peter Vaughn on Jan 12, 2023 23:37:18 GMT -5
T-MINUS 00:00:00:00
~The camera slowly comes on, blurry, as if showing us someone's perspective as they're regaining consciousness while staring towards the cloudy sky. The sky, it appears, is moving, but that's just a mirage. It's actually the shot that's moving, as we see two people in medical uniforms looking down on us.~
Female Paramedic: I think he's starting to wake up!
Male Paramedic: Not to worry, he's in no shape to give us any trouble.
~The light seems to dim for a second, then brightens again when the stretcher hits a bump in the road. The view suddenly reverses itself, showing us a pair of ice-blue eyes peering upwards. The eyes go wide after a second bump, with the camera slowly zooming out to show us a close-up of Peter Vaughn's blood-covered face as he blinks rapidly, trying to pull himself together. An emergency bandage has been pressed against the side of his head, trying to contain the blood loss. Vaughn starts to try sitting up, fighting against the pain, but he's quickly stopped when his arms don't come with him. He looks downwards, staring at the handcuffs locking him into place. The male paramedic takes a moment to put a hand on him, pushing him down further.~
Male Paramedic: Take it easy, man. We're not your enemy. But you've got to let us do our work!
Female Paramedic: I'll get the doors.
~Vaughn's head falls backwards, as if he reached his max energy output for the moment. In front of him, the female paramedic swings open the ambulance doors, then turns, helping her partner adjust the stretcher into the ambulance. Vaughn tries to take a deep breath, as if to say something, then winces in obvious pain, coughing for a few seconds. The male paramedic goes to get the doors, pulling one closed, then the other... but gets stopped as a hand gets in the way. A police officer forces his way into the ambulance, getting inside.~
Male Paramedic: Sir, you're not allowed in...
Police Officer: You think I'm letting you guys ride alone with this maniac? Not a chance.
~The doors finally get closed, with the lady already in the front, starting to drive them towards the hospital. The officer manages to find himself a seat, staring down at Vaughn, who's still coughing. The male paramedic gets a mask over his face, giving him oxygen, then starts to open up Vaughn's coveralls. There is a decent amount of blood on the side of them, having soaked through the dense fabric.~
Police Officer: Is he going to make it?
Male Paramedic: We don't answer questions like that. Not here. Now, let me get to work.
~The paramedic begins to put another patch onto Vaughn's side, as he stares towards the ceiling, feeling the oxygen do its work. You can see his mind working behind his eyes, as he thinks about how he never figured his day would end up this way. Not this year. Not today. The paramedic reaches across him, unlocking a case to pull out more gauze. He slams the case shut... ~
T-MINUS 00:04:25:32
~The door swings open, revealing the inside of a work shed. Peter Vaughn steps out of the shadows, hoisting a rather large shovel over one shoulder. He adjusts his eyes to the sunlight, looking upwards at the dawning of a new day. It's a good time to get some manual labor in. He shuts the door behind him, then steps forward, swinging the shovel back and forth as if prepared to clobber someone with it. A rare genuine smile crosses his lips.~
Peter Vaughn: It's nice to actually be using a tool for what it was built for, at least for once...
~Vaughn puts the shovel back over his shoulder and walks forward, slowly turning himself towards the right as he gets on the main path of the PMV Ranch. He takes a leisurely walk, setting a good pace, as the drone camera zooms upwards away from him, following his walk and showing where he's headed: a section of the ranch where several ranch hands are currently at work, digging up a large trench. The workers look up as Vaughn closes in, with some looking surprised to see the owner of the ranch out this early. Vaughn doesn't pay them any mind, simply bringing his shovel around and beginning to work on the left side of the trench. Despite it being a January day, it's still Texas, so there will always be sweat during hard work. The troops work away, continuing to maneuver the trench to the side. Some of the workers look over towards Vaughn, still keeping an eye on him. They whisper to each other, assuming that he won't be able to hear them. He does, anyway.~
Ranch Hand #1: I'll say this, it's good to actually be working somewhere with a ranch boss that's not a lazy piece of shit. You know, in all that time I spent at the McKlanton's, I don't remember ever seeing that fat bastard so much as pick up a piece of trash off the ground.
Ranch Hand #2: Don't read too much into it. From what I've heard, this guy's an unpredictable loon. If he hears you complimenting him, he might bury you here.
Ranch Hand #1: So who wants predictable? That's not the life I was looking to sign up for.
Ranch Hand #3: Would you two shut up and get back to work? We've got a long way to go to get this thing deep enough for the pipes! God damn ground is nearly frozen this time of year...
Ranch Hand #2: Whose idea was it to do this now, anyway?
Peter Vaughn: Mine, of course.
~The others look over at Vaughn, who is busy shoveling out another mound of dirt. The nervous ranch hand gulps, about to apologize, but Vaughn doesn't give him a chance.~
Peter Vaughn: We need to have this done by the end of January. Everyone here is getting overtime for this. So get it done.
~Some cheer, motivated by the possibility of a larger paycheck. The one ranch hand just looks glad to have survived. Vaughn doesn't even look in his direction. Instead, he digs in the shovel again, making more progress than the others around him as he focuses on the task at hand. You can almost see a glint of enjoyment at the physical labor he's performing. All the while, though, he continues to think about the future, and what's to come in 2023. It could be the year that all his dreams fully come true.~
It's taken way too long to get to this point.
I've been dreaming about James Raven since 2021. Don't take that the wrong way, mind you. It's not dreams of replacing Atara Themis or becoming "best buds" with the legend. It's been dreams of decapitating one of the best wrestlers I've ever seen. Dreams of taking the almighty Raven and making him fly over the top rope, watching as he fails to spread his wings to protect himself upon landing. Dreams of delivering the icon a truly memorable defeat in the center of that squared circle. But those dreams... have continued to just be fantasies for almost two years now.
It was all set for us in 2021, wasn't it, James? I had won the Online Championship Wrestling World Heavyweight Championship, taking my place at the top of that storied organization. You had become the general manager, set to have the power to name the person I would defend against next. In a true showing of absolute power's corruption, you named yourself the #1 contender. It was going to be the war of all wars, as you would have the referees on your side, while I would have my rage and intensity to guide me. But it didn't happen. The Purge took place. Your reign fell in a horrendous failure. I won't deny that the denial of our match contributed, in part, to my departure from that company very soon after.
We teased facing each other again in Pro Wrestling Valor, as I'd had a run at the top there in early 2022. We had a chance at meeting in the Roth Invitational Tournament, potentially in the finals. It would have been glorious. But you failed to make it very far in the tournament, getting yourself upset, and I got denied as well thanks to Matthew Knox changing the rules and inserting a third person into my match. I never got pinned, but that didn't matter. My night ended, and once again, I missed out on the chance to fight you.
I continued to fight in the Xtreme Wrestling Federation, a place I knew was near and dear to your heart. But you would never come fight me there. You failed to show up at Level Up Wrestling. You chose other places to wrestle, seemingly avoiding me whenever possible. But I knew you weren't doing it on purpose. You must still have felt that same urge for us two titans of the wrestling world to face off. You wouldn't have signed to face me at the Cannabis Cup otherwise.
That was going to be it, James. Finally, the fates aligned. We had our match. We battled all around the ring, showing the fans the dream could become a reality. But then it was stolen from us again, wasn't it? That referee, deciding that a fantastic brawl like ours needed to be ruled over with an iron fist. His quick count-out that night, costing both of us a decisive ending to our battle. He deserved to feel the wrath of the Revenged, James. He deserved far worse than that. But you stopped me from using the chair. You didn't feel the same fury at his imbecilic call that night. You didn't feel ripped off or denied.
Why, James?
Why weren't you pissed at how that all ended? Was it because you're always a consummate professional? Someone who respects the referees and the guidelines that they follow? Were you just being a good man?
Or were you relieved that the referee saved you that night?
I don't want to believe that. You're the idol I've always looked up to. You're the superstar that I have always wanted to overtake. Surely you feel the same way. Surely you believe that a victory over Peter Vaughn would be miraculous, a major feather in your cap. After all, I'm the Thunder Pro Wrestling International Champion. I'm the WGWF World Heavyweight Champion, the organization you've once again been working at as one of the head honchos. I'm once again on one of the greatest runs of my life. James. You must see that this is going to be the match of the year.
You and I, James? We're fated to finally have our fight to the finish. It's going to be brutal. It's going to be bloody.
It's going to be legendary.
T-PLUS 00:00:32:14
~The automatic doors respond as they're expected to, sliding open quickly as the stretcher is brought into the hospital. The paramedics push him over to the orderlies, as a doctor jogs over their direction.~
Doctor: What do we got?
Male Paramedic: Multiple GSW. Head injury, ribs injury, the works.
~Vaughn is still wearing the mask on his mouth, keeping him from talking, but he can be heard mumbling as he shakes his head. Neither the doctor nor the paramedic pays attention. Instead, the doctor focuses on the handcuffs.~
Doctor: What is this about??
Police Officer: Those have to stay on for your own safety, doctor.
Doctor: Preposterous! We need to move this man, now! Uncuff him!
~The police officer looks dubious, but he knows the voice of authority. He brings out his keys, leaning in towards Vaughn as he begins to unlock him.~
Police Officer: You try to pull anything, you're going to have another gunshot wound to deal with.
Doctor: Enough threatening of my patient, "Officer". Back off!
~Vaughn is quickly transferred to a different, more efficient stretcher as they roll him down the hall. Vaughn tries to reach up and remove his mask, pulling it partially to the side.~
Peter Vaughn: It's... it's not... what you think...
~The doctor efficiently puts the mask back on, while signaling to a nurse.~
Doctor: I'm sure you have a great story, son, I just don't have time to hear it. Nurse? Please sedate him so we can get to work.
~The needle quickly appears, and Vaughn's in no shape to avoid it. The skin is broken, with the sedative delivered. It's a strong one, as there's no way for Vaughn to keep his eyes open. They flicker, then close...~
T-MINUS 00:02:18:51
~A hand comes up, wiping the sweat off the forehead to keep it away from the eyes. Vaughn opens them again, blinking a few times, before raising up and taking a long drink from a bottle of water. He looks out at the crew's handiwork so far, having dug a respectable 15 feet or so over the last few hours. He nods at the ranch hands, who are all taking the same break as him. Some nod back; others look away. There's still an uneasy trust between them, but some ground has likely been made this day. As Vaughn takes another drink, a man walks up, looking supremely well-kept compared to everyone else in the shot. He doesn't look like he's lost an ounce of sweat on this day, or any day recently.~
Thomas Hill: Hey, bro. You still working here? Don't you need to get cleaned up for your appointment?
~Vaughn glances over, grimacing, before finishing his water. He tosses it behind him, a seemingly random toss, and yet it lands inside the trash can set up six feet behind him. Vaughn then turns towards his half-brother, grumbling.~
Peter Vaughn: I thought we were going to cancel that.
Thomas Hill: When did we ever talk about cancelling it? I thought you WANTED to go!
~Vaughn sighs, then turns to look back at the ranch hands around the trench. He hesitates, then decides to go ahead and talk.~
Peter Vaughn: Sorry, troops. I have to go. We've been making a lot of progress today. I appreciate all that you men and women have been bringing to this project. I know it's hard. The timing's pretty rough. But if we can get this plumbing system working before the spring, it's going to pay off greatly in many ways. I know all of you can continue without me, but I'll be back tomorrow to do my share again.
~Vaughn nods respectfully towards them, then walks away, headed to the main house. Hill follows behind him, shaking his head.~
Thomas Hill: Seriously, who does a plumbing project in January??
~Vaughn doesn't respond, as he walks deliberately towards his destination. The camera swivels to show the workers again, looking tired but willing to continue for at least a little longer. They go to work, as the camera focuses on the sky. When it comes back down, we're at the main homestead, where Vaughn is stepping out the door. He's now in a clean set of coveralls, looking a lot better than he did earlier. He doesn't look that happy, though, even as Thomas falls into step next to him.~
Thomas Hill: You've got the address programmed in, right?
Peter Vaughn: I don't really need it. I've been there before.
Thomas Hill: Sure, but factoring in travel time, you're still going to be pushing it. You can't afford to get lost.
Peter Vaughn: I won't. Not that these fans would care. They're high-rollers, right?
Thomas Hill: It sounds that way, yeah. They set this all up through CCPE, wanting you to give a special appearance. From what I hear, they paid more than enough to get you there. Just look at you, bro. From a ditch-digger to a heart-breaker in one hour. Impressive.
~Vaughn gives Thomas a side-long glance, looking a little confused.~
Peter Vaughn: Heart-breaker?
Thomas Hill: Never mind. I keep forgetting that you don't care about any of that stuff. But if an older woman is there, and she wants to be your sugar momma, feel free to consider it.
Peter Vaughn: Why? It's not like I need the money...
Thomas Hill: *Sigh* You're like talking to a blank wall sometimes. Just drive fast, but drive safe, okay?
Peter Vaughn: Sure, Thomas. Sure.
~Vaughn gets into his customized truck, taking a moment to glance over at the ranch hands still hard at work on the ditches. He shakes his head, as he'd rather stay with them, but duty apparently calls. He shifts the truck into gear, heading up the road and away from the PMV ranch. He reaches the main road, turning left, towards Dallas.... and towards his destiny.~
I hate to harp on things, but truly, it feels like my destiny to finally get this match under my belt.
I honestly have nothing but good things to say about James Raven. The man has done everything in his wrestling career. He's found success everywhere he's gone. He's been at the top. Basically, I've emulated him over the last year, setting myself up. Not to be the next Raven, no, I wouldn't think of doing anything like that. No, just setting up Peter Vaughn to be the man who replaces him.
I mean, when you look at it logically, James, it's hard to dispute the truth that I had a better 2022 than you did. Your career is truly on the downturn now. You aren't out there holding multiple World Championships like I am. You're a family man now. And hey, props to you for starting to plan your exit strategy. It makes perfect sense that you'll try to transition into a general manager/owner type, so that you can continue in the business that's leaving you behind. It's a great way to avoid the damage that's going to keep building up on your joints and muscles. All that pain and agony over the years that you've suffered inside the ring, it doesn't go away as quickly as it used to, does it?
So you want to make sure you're able to lift your kids in the morning. You want to be able to walk with them instead of rolling behind them in a wheelchair. Everyone understands that. Even me.
And you know me, James, even if you pretend that you don't. You know that I have the utmost respect for your successful career. I'm not going into our match thinking of permanently disfiguring your or paralyzing you. I won't say it's not in my nature, or that I haven't ended up doing that to others, but for you, I guarantee it won't be at the top of my to-do list. No, James, I won't be there to end your life or your livelihood... but if I do end your career, wouldn't that be a great line for my future Hall of Fame speech?
But no, I'm not going to be breaking your legs or cracking your spine, and it's not just because Atara would hunt me relentlessly for years seeking vengeance if I did that. It's simply out of respect for all you've done for this sport, and all you're doing for me by finally, FINALLY, making this match a reality. With that same respect, though... I'm not coming into this one to go easy on you. I don't care that you're past your prime at this point, that you'd rather be changing a diaper instead of choking a fool out. I'm coming at you with all the barely contained fury and frantic energy that has won me so many championships as of late.
Let's be real, James. It's time for you to hand over the flag. It's no longer your generation at the top anymore. That time has passed.
We're in the Era of Peter Vaughn now, and I'm coming for that flag. We've reached the point where James Raven... will need to be removed.
T-PLUS 00:02:23:46
~The shot comes on inside a hospital room, recently cleared out for Peter Vaughn. He's laying in the white bed, sheets covering him, but not hiding the fact that he's once again handcuffed to the railing. Still, he appears to be in better shape, if we judge by the stitches on his forehead and the calmer breathing coming from him. It's strange to see him like this: almost... at peace. That doesn't last, as there's the sound of yelling outside the hospital room door. It's enough to get Vaughn to wake up, blearily looking over in that direction. You can tell he's still fighting the sedative, as he can't quite focus.~
Peter Vaughn: Thought... I ordered a... sound-proof room... hah hah...
~Vaughn gives a small, silly grin to himself, before his head collapses back into the pillow. The camera transfers to the wire connected to his arm, which is feeding him intravenous fluids, otherwise known as an IV. The camera keeps moving, heading towards the doorway, eventually finding a way to phase through the wall and appear on the other side. Gotta love movie magic. Outside in the hallway, we see the police officer valiantly standing his ground, as "Chronic" Chris Page is right in his face.~
Chris Page: Do you have ANY IDEA who I am??
Police Officer: Yes, of course I know, but that doesn't change anything!
~The police officer is trying to calm down the situation, but Page isn't having it. Behind him, standing anxiously in a doorway, is Thomas Hill. He is basically 'backing up' Page without actually getting involved, perfectly in character for him.~
Chris Page: I'll tell you once again: you're going to go in there, remove those handcuffs, and leave the area, or else we're going to have major problems here.
Police Officer: You DO realize what he did, right?
Chris Page: Of course I do! I heard the whole thing!! I also talked to the witnesses, which is something you OBVIOUSLY didn't do!!
Police Officer: Look, I'm just following orders. Mr. Vaughn cannot, under any circumstances, leave this room!
Chris Page: Do I LOOK like I'm about to take him out to get prime rib and caviar? It's not like he's going anywhere with his wounds!!
~The police officer sighs, then leans against the door. Thankfully, it's locked, so he doesn't immediately fall into the room.~
Police Officer: All I can say is, talk to the chief of police. If he agrees with you, then we can talk. Until then, I'm to stay here and keep him under arrest.
Chris Page: When this is all over, my lawyers are going to own your chief of police... and you as well. Everyone involved in this is going to find themselves under legal prosecution until we get all that we deserve.
~Page turns away, fuming, as the police officer seems to breathe a slight sigh of relief. Hill, at this point, steps forward, clearing his throat.~
Thomas Hill: Excuse me, but... can you at least tell me how my brother's condition is?
~The officer looks at Hill, surprised, as if he didn't even know he was there. Chris Page's personality DOES have a way of taking up a room, after all.~
Police Officer: I really don't know. You'll have to talk to one of the nurses down there.
~Thomas nods, then turns to Page, but Page is already walking down the hall. The nurses down at the desk look his way, straightening up nervously as they know what's coming, having heard it throughout the hallway. Hill follows behind, wanting to know more, as the police officer goes back to his seat, weakly sitting down and trying to calm his nerves. His hands just won't stop shaking.~
T-MINUS 00:00:43:09
~The view shifts to Peter Vaughn's hands, showing no shake in them whatsoever. He's using them to shield his eyes as he looks upwards, staring at his destination high above.~
Peter Vaughn: Well.... that's taller than I remember...
~The camera shifts, giving us a view of what Vaughn is currently looking at.~
~The Reunion Tower in Dallas shines above, one of the taller structures in the city. To some, it's an eyesore, but to a native like Vaughn, it just feels like home. He walks across the street, heading inside. The attendant greets him at the door, and Vaughn is soon headed to the elevator.~
Peter Vaughn: So the group I'm supposed to meet is already up there?
Attendant: I don't know about a group, sir, but a gentleman did say to be on the lookout for you, since your admission has already been paid. He was going to wait on the observation deck.
~Vaughn rubs his chin for a moment thoughtfully, taking note of this information. But it's not enough to make any drastic changes, so he thanks the young attendant and gets into the elevator, heading up to the observation deck. The door opens, with Vaughn stepping out and looking around. Nobody hurries to make his acquaintance, though, so Vaughn instead wanders over to the windows of the deck, looking outward on the skyline of Dallas. He takes a deep breath, letting it out as he stares at his city.~
Peter Vaughn: No matter where I go in the world... nowhere else will ever feel like home.
~Vaughn continues to stare out, taking in the landmarks, until his phone suddenly rings. Vaughn, confused, pops it out, taking a look at the caller ID before answering it.~
Peter Vaughn: Hello? Hey, Chris. No, I can talk, I'm just waiting for those people you signed up to come meet me. Yeah, through CCPE? No, they haven't showed yet. So what do you want to talk about? Future matches? Hmmm, well, I'm already set up for the CCPE Vs. The World with Raven, of course you know that. I've got Veronica Strader at the Denzel Porter Invitational, and I'm set up for that Splat Gemini One match in March. You'd know better than I do about WGWF. So what else? TPW? Why do you want to talk about...
~As Vaughn turns to the side, considering what his agent and mentor is talking about, he suddenly freezes in place. The camera shifts slightly, showing us that a pistol is now pointed directly at Vaughn's chest. Vaughn doesn't panic, which is probably a good thing. He takes a quick breath before turning his attention back to the phone.~
Peter Vaughn: I'm sorry, Chris. I'm going to have to call you back, I think I'm about to be shot.
~Vaughn then lowers the phone. We can hear Chris Page's voice, muffled, demanding to know what's going on, but Vaughn just hangs onto the phone as he stares at the man standing just across from him, keeping his aim steady. Tourists nearby, seeing what's happening, are already running for the elevator, anxious to get away. Vaughn, for his part, just looks puzzled.~
Peter Vaughn: Do I know you?
~The gun is immediately cocked, leaving Vaughn only a slight twitch of a muscle from disaster. Vaughn prepares himself, as we cut away.~
It doesn't matter where you go in life. Sometimes you just find yourself under the gun.
That hasn't stopped me, of course. I've been willing to put myself in the crosshairs time and time again. When Apex was ruling over the XWF and terrorizing places like TPW, I gathered up some associates and tore their ivory tower down all the way to the foundations. When the best of the best entered into the WGWF West Coast Rumble, guys like Raion Kido, Mark Flynn, Jonathan Cable, and Mac Bane, I didn't back down. I came in at #5 and helped eliminate all of them, in one way or another. I never backed down, which is why I won that Rumble and became a five-time World Champion.
When 65 competitors stepped forward claiming they deserved the title of the greatest wrestler in the world, I stepped up to meet them in the World Series of Wrestling. None of them could move me. None of them could stop me. I persevered through every cut, and then at the end, I made my move, and the rest is history. I survived names like Vhodka Black, Kido, Xavier Lux, Shawn Warstein, Allen Chaney, Dionysus, and so many others, proclaiming myself the WSOW 2022 Champion. I claimed that spot at the top, not through someone handing it to me just because of my name, but because I EARNED that honor.
And it's still not enough. I'm still not sated.
I still want to wrestle at every major event on the calendar. I want to go on a World Tour, bringing my name to brand new audiences who even men like James Raven haven't reached. I want to mark myself in the history books as someone who can be argued to be one of the greatest of all time. I want people to discuss Peter Vaughn as belonging on the Mount Rushmore of wrestling. I won't be satisfied until that happens... and let's be honest, I might not even be satisfied then.
I want it all, James. I'm driven to take everything that I believe I'm owed from this business and then some. That includes you, James. That includes the victory over you that I have desired for as far back as I want to remember. Notching that win over the great, all-hailed James Raven, after so many misfires and uncontrollable outward elements, that's what I need for 2023. That's what I crave.
When I pin you in that ring, James, it will become part of my legacy, the part that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
The part where you're added to my list of the defeated, now and forevermore.
T-PLUS 00:04:42:12
~After a few more hours of sleeping, Peter Vaughn is once again awakened by the noises he hears. This time, though, it's welcome noise, as it's the unlatching of the handcuffs around his wrists. With both hands free, Vaughn slowly, painfully sits up, rubbing at the sore, red spots on his hands for a second. He moves, as if to get out of the bed, but a nurse quickly steps into his path, glaring at him. Vaughn seems to weigh his options for a moment, before sighing and leaning back into the bed.~
Peter Vaughn: I take it... I'm not supposed to go anywhere. So, what's the damage?
~The nurse doesn't speak. Instead, the voice comes from the other side of Vaughn, startling him and causing him to turn his head to see the doctor standing there.~
Doctor: Well, son, one could say you've been extremely lucky. The bullet you were hit with appears to have glanced off your fifth rib and rebounded. You're lucky it didn't get any deeper under the skin. As for your head, well, you've had your brain rattled around in there.
Peter Vaughn: Well, that certainly wouldn't be the first time.
Doctor: We're going to keep you here overnight to keep an eye out for any signs of a concussion, as well as making sure your stitches have a chance to seal up.
Peter Vaughn: Oh, I don't think that's necessary, Doc. I appreciate your work and all, but I have fights I need to prepare for...
~Vaughn sits up again, looking like he's ready to make a break for the door, only to appear to feel a little light-headed. He rests back again.~
Peter Vaughn: Then again, who says I can't take one night off?
Doctor: That's the spirit. Now, c'mon, Nurse Kincaid. We might as well let those two in, they'll just keep pacing around outside.
~The doctor and nurse leave, going through the doorway. They're quickly replaced by Chris Page and Thomas Hill, with Thomas rushing around to Vaughn's side.~
Thomas Hill: Peter! You're awake!
~Thomas leans in and gives Vaughn a quick side hug, being careful of his ribs. Vaughn doesn't really reciprocate, but he lets it slide this time.~
Peter Vaughn: You were worried about me, brother? I've been through worse in some of my more competitive matches...
Chris Page: As much as I love to see new innovations inside the wrestling ring, I think we might want to keep guns out of the equation. So how are you feeling?
~Vaughn seems to consider this, a deep frown slowly developing on his face.~
Peter Vaughn: How am I feeling, Chris? ... I don't really know.
Chris Page: I know, Peter. This was a crazy one, wasn't it? I'm still not sure exactly what happened, other than this mystery guy pulled a gun on you. Did you recognize him?
Peter Vaughn: Not... at first... no... Chris... do you remember, back last year, when we spent some time in a hospital like this?
~Chris thinks about it for a second before nodding, as Peter lets out a deep breath, his thoughts going back to what he went through earlier that day... and before that, in what felt like another time... ~
T-MINUS 00:00:29:12
~For an unknown length of time, Peter Vaughn considers the pistol that's aimed at him. He recognizes the brand, knowing that it's an extremely good weapon to have. It can be deadly accurate. He stares at the man's face, seeing a mixture of anguish and frustration there, but the man says nothing to him. By now, most of the observation deck has cleared out except for a few that have decided not to chance leaving. Vaughn glances over in their direction, before finally returning to his captor's gaze.~
Peter Vaughn: At some point, we're going to have to do something here, boyo. Either you're going to have to explain to me why you're threatening me, or you're just going to have to take that shot, if you want any chance of getting away.
~The man seems to consider this, but then slowly shakes his head, biting down on his jaw as if trying to contain his rage. He manages it, breathing heavily as he continues to point the gun at Vaughn.~
Man: You don't even remember who I am, do you?
Peter Vaughn: Afraid not, although...
~Vaughn takes a closer look at the man, really studying him for a few seconds.~
Peter Vaughn: ... you DO look a little familiar. But then, I've met plenty of people that I've pissed off enough that they might want to kill me. Hard to keep all the faces straight, you understand.
~The man fumbles at his jacket pocket for a moment with his free hand, finally pulling out what appears to be a photograph.~
Man: You should remember this face... you should ALWAYS remember this face...
~The man flips the photo towards Vaughn, who uses his incredible dexterity to catch it in mid-air on the side, not even crumpling the photo. Vaughn smirks at the man before looking down at the photo, seeing the young man smiling there... a young man's smile that shocks him to his core, immediately bringing back a crashing tide of tragic memories...~
T-MINUS 323:02:12:09
~We flash back a long way, travelling with Vaughn all the way back to the parking lot of the NorthPark Center Mall. We see Vaughn, dressed in his wrestling gear, there to sign some autographs for the fans and make some extra cash. Before he can make it inside the mall, though, Vaughn hears someone yelling his name.*
Fan: It's him!! It's Peter Vaughn!!!
~Vaughn turns, seeing a young man running across the road, anxious to see one of the wrestlers from his favorite show. Vaughn raises an arm, weakly waving at him, only to then notice a fancy sports car speeding too fast in a public parking lot. Time seems to slow down, as Vaughn realizes what's about to happen.~
Peter Vaughn: No...
~Vaughn takes a step forward, but seems to hesitate, considering his own well-being compared to the young man's. By the time he shakes off the momentary indecision, it's too late. The vehicle smashes into the young man, sending him flying. He crashes sickeningly to the ground, as Vaughn slides in next to him.~
Peter Vaughn: CALL 911!! NOW!!!
~As people race around him, some crying uncontrollably, Vaughn cradles the young man, keeping him still, as he waits for help to arrive. The camera does a close-up of the young man's bloody face...~
T-MINUS 00:00:29:12
~... the same face in the photo that Vaughn just received. He raises his eyes up, forcing himself to leave the photo in order to stare again at the man agonizingly standing in front of him.~
Peter Vaughn: ... Mr. Kimble.
~The gunman, now given a name, snarls slightly at the recognition.~
Mr. Kimble: So you remember me now... and you remember William.
Peter Vaughn: I guarantee you, sir... I've never forgotten your son.
Mr. Kimble: You say that... yet you don't know, do you? YOU DON'T KNOW!!! AND THAT'S THE PROBLEM!!! THAT'S WHAT THIS IS ALL ABOUT!!!
~The father is yelling now, on the edge of losing control. Those still in the observation deck shy away, terrified of what's in his voice. Only Peter Vaughn doesn't look away, as his lack of emotional attachment works to his advantage. He doesn't show fear.~
Peter Vaughn: What are you talking about, Mr. Kimble?
Mr. Kimble: If you... if you remembered my son... if you had kept up with him... you'd know that he never got justice. You'd know that because YOU refused to testify, the driver got away with a slap on the wrist thanks to his high-priced lawyer, then went overseas so we couldn't get a hold of him!! If you had kept up with William... you'd know... about the complications that arose... you'd know that he passed away last month!!!!
~Vaughn looks down, unable to take his eyes off the photo sitting in his hand. It almost feels like William is staring at him through the photo. Vaughn legitimately has to force himself to look back at Mr. Kimble, looking frustrated.~
Peter Vaughn: ... We paid all his bills. We flew in that high-priced specialist. It was all... it was all supposed to be fixed!!!
Mr. Kimble: THERE WAS NO FIX!!! NONE!!!!
~Mr. Kimble raises the gun slightly, pointing it right at Vaughn's head.~
Mr. Kimble: THERE IS ONLY JUSTICE!!!
~Mr. Kimble looks ready to squeeze the trigger. His eyes are manic, almost popping out of their sockets. But Vaughn, strangely, seems unfazed by it. He's just continually looking at the picture, then returning his gaze to the father of the boy that Vaughn feels he failed last year. But he knows he didn't fail him completely.~
Peter Vaughn: You want to talk justice, Mr. Kimble? You think that Benny Clarkson was going to jail for that accident, even if I testified? With all his money, and that team of hired guns on retainer? No, Mr. Kimble. I knew the instant I researched Clarkson that we wouldn't get him that way. Let me ask you this, Mr. Kimble...
~Shockingly, Vaughn actually takes a step closer to the gun, causing Mr. Kimble to look even more erratic. But he also seems transfixed on what Vaughn is saying.~
Peter Vaughn: Do you REALLY believe that Clarkson disappeared after the trial because he CHOSE to?
~If anything, Mr. Kimble's eyes find a way to get even wider, as he considers what Vaughn is saying. Vaughn, for his part, leans slightly closer.~
Mr. Kimble: You... you... you and Clarkson...
Peter Vaughn: Justice, Mr. Kimble... was served.
~Mr. Kimble appears to be having trouble adjusting to this news. The gun is beginning to waver, which could end up being a good or bad thing.~
Peter Vaughn: That said, Mr. Kimble... I'm sorry I wasn't there for William's final days. I wish I had known, but I'm afraid... I had moved on. But I can still be there for William's family. What you're doing here, Mr. Kimble... it's going to take you away from your wife... your younger daughter. Do you really want that?
~Vaughn reaches a hand forward... but Mr. Kimble seems to steady himself, pointing the gun strongly once more.~
Mr. Kimble: They... they already left me. Another thing I owe you for. Another thing you cost me. And payment... PAYMENT is DUE!!!
~With that, Mr. Kimble's finger flickers on the trigger... and the gun goes off.~
I can say now, honestly, that all that suspicion about your life flashing before your eyes at certain moments?
It's true. And damn, a lot of that life truly sucked. It wasn't that much fun running down THAT memory lane. At least I had the last year and a half to enjoy at the end.
But the funny thing about having your life flash before your eyes? You can also see the future that can be ahead of you, and I tell you, that future of mine? It's extremely bright. Once I get the victory over James Raven, the triumph I've been fighting for over the last year, I'm going to be rolling into the finals of that CCPE vs. The World Tournament. I know only the winners will move forward, but I have the feeling that a lot of my CCPE allies are going to be joining me in that match.
Holden Ross, while I've had differences with him recently, is facing a man I've already defeated TWICE in the past few months. Sure, I'm a lot better than Ross, but I think he can find a way to take down Buster Gloves. Xavier Lux, hey, he's an old hand, I feel like he's going to run circles around Jack Sullivan in this one. It's going to be a hell of a fight between those two. J-Mont? He's a monster who just won a Rumble just like I did. He'll tear Goth to pieces.
Mac's going against Larry Tact, that one could get dicey, but anyone betting against Mac is making a huge mistake. Page will definitely destroy Kido, much like I did at the West Coast Rumble. Fred going against the ancient Centurion? Please. Put another win mark on the board. Thad & Sahara in tag-team action? I have no idea who their opponents are. I know their names, I just don't give a damn about either of them, so obviously, I'm taking the Dukes to win.
My partner, Flynn, is just going to walk all over Johnny Cableseed. The only person who can beat Mark is, well... me. Then you've got Bam, who I fully expect to break multiple bricks to scraps as he annihilates Jason Cashe once again. Who's left after that? Oh, yeah, my man SEB. Isn't he going against the man he and the rest of us BEAT at the Tara Fenix Charity Event? Clearly, this is going to be another case of history repeating itself.
Seriously, at this point, going over all the numbers... what's the plan if CCPE wins EVERY SINGLE FUCKING MATCH??
Maybe we'll just go at it with each other. I wouldn't mind a crack at Mac or Holden, and hell, I always have a blast fighting Mark or Xavier. We'll definitely have to make it interesting for those in attendance at the big event. Still, if someone DOES manage to slip through... well, I'll be there to deal with them. Let's say we have a worst case scenario, and it's me vs. eleven wrestlers who just got the crap beaten out of them and still somehow survived. Well, I won't lie, that'll be a tough climb to manage... but I WILL do it. I will take down anyone and everyone in my way to claim that victory for CCPE.
We may not be a stable... but we have a hell of a lot of pride.
In the end, expect to see Peter Vaughn flying in while one of these losers takes the Plunge... and I walk out of there after the 1-2-3 as the ultimate champion of the CCPE.
God DAMN, it's going to be a night to remember, boyos!!!
T-MINUS 00:00:22:01
~Mr. Kimble gasps slightly, as if he hadn't actually expected the weapon to go off. His wrist shook at the very last moment, even as Vaughn, seeing it, reacted with lightning intensity, sliding to the right. It wasn't enough to dodge all of it, but it enough to create a glancing blow. Vaughn holds a hand to his side, feeling the wound. He looks at his hand, then slowly raises it up, showing the blood there to a hyperventilating Mr. Kimble. In his other hand, Vaughn raises up the photo he's still holding.~
Peter Vaughn: So you really think this is what William would want? REALLY???
~Amazingly, Vaughn steps forward towards Mr. Kimble, who starts backpedaling. Vaughn doesn't stop, though, gaining ground on the shaking man.~
Peter Vaughn: You think Williams would want his father, of all people, getting blood on his hands? You think he'd want you killing one of his FAVORITE wrestlers, who he made a trip out specifically to see?? If you think that's what he wants, if he wants my blood, then by all means, TAKE IT!!
~Vaughn is right up near Mr. Kimble now, almost pressed up against the gun. Mr. Kimble is barely functional, shuddering as he continues to point the weapon, just barely.~
Peter Vaughn: Do it, Mr. Kimble!! Send me to meet him!! And lose your opportunity to see him ever again!!
~Mr. Kimble looks right into Vaughn's face, his mouth open wide as if releasing a silent scream. He collapses to his knees, the gun lowering in front of him to face the ground. Vaughn follows him down, reaching out and taking the gun from his now-helpless hands. Mr. Kimble begins to sob, completely breaking down, as Vaughn checks the gun's ammo, seeing that there were several more shots available. He sighs, knowing that things could have just gone very wrong.~
Peter Vaughn: Mr. Kimble.... your family still needs you.
~Mr. Kimble doesn't bother to look up. He's practically broken at this point, sobbing uncontrollably. Vaughn stares at him, just as the stairwell doors crash open. Security finally pours into the room, taking in everything that's happening. They immediately bring their guns into firing position.~
Guard: You there!! Back away from the hostage and drop your weapon!! NOW!!!
~Vaughn looks at them with confusion, suddenly realizing that it does kind of look like he's got the gun aimed towards a broken man. Vaughn turns the gun to the side, raising up his other hand.~
Peter Vaughn: Whoa, hold on! You've got the wrong...
~Seeing the gun pointed away, one security member recklessly rushes in from behind. Before Vaughn can react, the man tackles him with a spear that would make Lissie Hope proud. Taken off guard, Vaughn could only toss the gun away and try and hang on, even as the guard smashed him backwards into the railing of the observation deck. Vaughn's head hits awkwardly, doing some damage, as he slumps to the ground, with the guard immediately turning him over and handcuffing him. Meanwhile, another officer goes over to Mr. Kimble, helping the broken man up.~
Guard: It's all over now. sir.
~This causes an even bigger howl from Mr. Kimble, as he shakes in the man's arms. The guard glares over at the unconscious Vaughn, as he starts to take Mr. Kimble back to the elevator to get him out of there. The door opens with a Ding... ~
T-PLUS 00:04:46:15
~The sound of an elevator door triggering down the hall can be heard in the hospital room, with Vaughn glancing that way before looking back at Page and his half-brother.~
Peter Vaughn: So I suppose you're to thank for the removal of my 'jewelry'?
Chris Page: Well, I called the lawyers who quickly worked it out. Really, it was just a matter of time, as the witnesses at the scene all gave their descriptions of the actual attacker. You know the police let that guy go, right? What morons. They took him downstairs and expected him just to wait at an ambulance. I'll make sure some of those buffoons don't have jobs next week.
~With that, Page leans in a little closer to Vaughn, considering his face.~
Chris Page: So you seemed to be talking a lot with him. Did you ever get the guy's name? I thought I heard you call him something once or twice, but I was rushing to the airport at the time...
Peter Vaughn: .... No. No, I have no idea who he was. Maybe he was just... a #1 fan or something...
Chris Page: Crazy SOB. The police really screwed this one up. They even released your name to the press before they realized their mistake. I already heard from a city councilman who wants to negotiate a proper settlement for you. If you want, we'll get them to give you the key to the city... as well as the bank doors that key will open.
~Vaughn sits back in the bed, shrugging his shoulders.~
Peter Vaughn: All I really care about is getting out of this hospital and heading home. We've still got some ditches to finish digging.
Chris Page: ... Some what to WHAT??
Thomas Hill: Never mind all that. You're not leaving. Doctor's orders. You have to heal up.
Peter Vaughn: I've got places to go and wrestlers to defeat, Thomas. You really think you'll be keeping me in this hospital?
~Vaughn's already getting up, grabbing at the coveralls sitting to the side. They're torn up and bloody, but Vaughn doesn't seem to mind.~
Thomas Hill: At least let me get you cleaner clothes!!
~As Vaughn turns towards Thomas, a sarcastic reply on his lips, he sees a photograph fall out of the pocket. He reaches down for it, picking up, and stares down at William's smiling face. Both Chris and Thomas realize something changed, but neither has any idea what's happened. All they know is that Vaughn quietly places the photo back into the pocket of the coveralls, making sure not to damage it. He then begins to get dressed. We slowly fade out.~
