Post by THE Tristan Slater on Dec 2, 2023 18:33:45 GMT -5
OOC: Characters used with permission and approval of RP usage.
Well if this isn’t a kick in the pants…
When I said I wanted the Intercontinental Championship, or to qualify for it, I never thought in a million years I’d be put in the ring against a clown called Stitches; and yet, here we are. I haven’t had to question a lot since my timely return but to allow someone an opportunity like this right off Jump Street without proving themselves is about the biggest slap to my face than having to accept a win over someone like Devlin via countout. Thankfully we don’t have to worry a whole lot about Stitches or Pogo finding themselves in the mix come First Dance for I will be your savior, I shall set you free. This is all about taking the next step toward staking claim to the only championship that has eluded me in the WGWF, and no creep under makeup is going to change that.
Sorry Stitches, but you’ve drawn the short straw.
Present Day: Port Arthur, Texas
Home of Mac and Amber Bane.
I pulled up to Mac Bane’s ranch in Port Arthur and shut off the engine of my rental car while looking at the massive structure Mac Bane calls home. There is history between Mac Bane and me from other promotions; hell, we made a run at some Tag Straps and were eyelashes away on multiple occasions from getting the job done but for whatever reason the spoils were always just out of reach. There is no denying that I am in a very uncomfortable spot when it comes to Mac Bane and John Cable; both are friends, both are talented, and both of them invoked my name in a personal pissing contest. I’ve got to get this sorted out on both fronts because I am nobody's pawn. The Texas sun isn’t as vicious heading into the winter season. The humidity is almost nonexistent in the air as a light breeze blows from East to West. Mac walked out on his front porch and gave me a wave and a motion to come inside. A simple head nod and I got out of the rental and headed toward the front porch where Mac greeted me with a firm handshake.
MAC BANE- “Good to see you again, brother.”
Mac releases his grip as does Slater.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Good to be seen.”
Tristan’s response puts a smirk on Mac’s face as he motions toward the house with a head nod.
MAC BANE- “Let’s go inside.”
Mac leads Tristan into the foyer of his home.
MAC BANE- “I’ve got us set up in here.”
Mac leads Tristan into a study of sorts, or perhaps it’s Mac’s personal office at home as various displays of career highlights and World Titles he’s won throughout his illustrious career accent the walls. Mac and Slater take a seat.
TRISTAN SLATER- “I don’t know how to talk about this without just talking about it openly before any problems can be created for not only me but for everyone else involved.”
MAC BANE: Let me guess, John?
TRISTAN SLATER- “Something’s been bothering me on both yours and his front that just doesn’t sit well with me. It seemed like you guys had no problem in bringing me into whatever issues you have brewing between the both of you for whatever reason, and the truth is I don’t like being used like a cheap whore.”
Mac looks to say something but Tristan holds up his right hand cutting him off.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Let me finish.”
Tristan lowers his hand.
TRISTAN SLATER- “A lot has changed since we ran the streets together, I mean you are poised for a showdown with Cholo for the World Title, and since my return, I’ve made it clear my intentions are set on claiming the Intercontinental Championship… but I know it’s not a matter of if, but a matter of when things hit a boiling point between you and Cable… The last thing either of you want is me being put in the middle.”
Mac interjects.
MAC BANE- “I hear you, but I think you’re reading a little too deep into this. From my side of this coin invoking your name wasn’t meant to be a shot at you more so than it was calling out a fact. John has a way of running his mouth when it isn’t needed, wanted, or asked for.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “You’re not telling me anything I don’t already know when it comes to John because I know the guy better than he knows himself. I’m just trying to clear the air with you both because the last thing I need is this thing hanging over my head while I am on the road to try and make personal history.”
Tristan continues.
TRISTAN SLATER- “I’ve been watching from a distance, and I can tell that you’ve tapped into that mean streak that has been lying dormant for so long taking things by any means necessary; and who am I to judge, and I’m man enough to wish you the best of luck on your quest I also want you to know that my intentions aren’t to stop with the Intercontinental Championship because that’s just my starting point.”
Everyone has a starting point, right Stitches? This marks yours when it comes to the WGWF and unfortunately for you, it comes in the form of a roadblock known as Tristan Slater. I’ll be the first to admit that when I saw this booking I was left scratching my head as to how this is possibly going to be entertaining for the fans of Dallas, Texas… but then it hit me.
Anyone can paint their face.
Ask John Cable.
So who are you? Why do you paint your face? Why do you masquerade around as a clown? Were you not loved enough as a child? Did your parents not show you enough attention? Did you eat paint chips as a child? I’m seriously asking you because there is no reason a grown man puts on clown makeup unless he’s trying to pull a Gacy. Are you that kind of sick freak? I’m just kidding. I don’t want to make your ankle biter mad.
Even I have jokes.
The harsh fact when it comes to looking across the ring from you is that you could be anybody. You have the mask of the unknown, your abilities are untested, and for all extensive purposes if I were to take you lightly you COULD strip away the fabric of me taking that next step toward the Intercontinental Championship.
I cannot allow that.
I will not allow that.
MAC BANE- “I don’t expect you to be satisfied with the Intercontinental Title, I know it’s just an accolade for you to cement your resume in the WGWF. I know your eyes are going to be on what will be around my waist, and I couldn’t think of a more fitting opponent to be fair. Our chemistry as a team was and is unmatched, which means when the time comes… our chemistry as opponents will be even better.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Let’s not put the horse in front of the race, my road isn’t paved with yellow bricks. I’ve got to fight and claw for everything I’ve gotten. It isn’t easy being one of the few legacy talents in the company. The changes that are happening in our industry are tough to get a grasp on, and the talent levels seem to grow leaps and bounds.”
MAC BANE- “That’s why I love being in the WGWF. It’s a shark tank and you’re either a predator or you’re prey.”
Tristan nods in approval as Mac then asks.
MAC BANE- “I imagine you’ve already spoken with John?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “You are the first stop.”
Mac snickers under his breath.
TRISTAN SLATER- “What’s so funny?”
MAC BANE- “I’m just thinking about how bent he’s going to be when he finds out you came to speak to me before you spoke with him.”
Tristan casually responds.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Knowing him he’s going to get butt-hurt, but he too will understand that I meant what I said… If anybody stands in my way, I’m going to mow them down… I don’t care who you are.”
MAC BANE- “You saw he secured a shot at the Smash Championship?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Yeah.”
Tristan then states.
TRISTAN SLATER- “I’m happy for him just like I’m happy for you when it comes to the World Title shot, and as long as I’m not involved in whatever issues either of you might have I’ll be fine. If you throw blows, you throw blows. Don’t come looking for me to interject or try and be a voice of reason for two grown-ass men.”
MAC BANE- “Listen brother, I’m sorry for throwing your name in the mix with Cable. It wasn't intended to be disrespectful if that’s how it came off.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Listen I don’t think either of you had bad intentions, but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t speak on it and clear that air before moving forward with this portion of my WGWF career because if there is a problem then now is the time for us to solve it.”
Mac nods in understanding.
MAC BANE- “Nah brother, we don’t have an issue. We are all good.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Okay, that’s all I need to hear.”
Tristan gets out of his chair as does Mac Bane. The two men shake hands.
I find it rather amusing that since you’ve come into the WGWF you and Pogo seem to have some sort of obsession with Jenny Myst, don’t get me wrong… she’s quite the looker, but let’s be fair, she’s out of your league. Instead of worrying about sticking your head up her ass, you might want to start worrying about me and what I plan on doing to you when we take center stage on Monday Night Brawl. My quest for the only strap of gold I’ve never held in the confines of this company is at stake, and while things might be fun for you the last thing this is to me is a children’s party.
Oh wait.
You’re a failed Circus Clown is your background? How the fuck do you fail at being a Circus Clown yet expect that in your WGWF debut, you will somehow magically push the levels of your failure aside? I mean it is possible if you are a sham, Anyone can throw on some make-up, anyone can hide behind masks, and anyone can fake a background story. This IS professional Wrestling. Something that won’t be fake is how quickly I am going to introduce you my fists to your face, boots to your ass, and securing my shot at taking the legacy that Cholo created for the Intercontinental Championship to a completely different level.
Whoever the next IC Champion is has some heavy shoes to fill.
Thankfully I’ve got some pretty big feet.
Tristan felt good leaving Mac’s after a filling dinner. He pulled up to his hotel and turned the engine off to my rental. We are just a few days away from what could be the biggest match in Tristan’s return because everything hinges on it. Securing a spot in the Intercontinental Championship match is all that consumes Slater’s mind.
Tristan lets out a deep breath and closes his eyes taking a few moments of meditation for himself.
A hand knocks on the driver's side window causing Tristan to jump in his seat as he’s taken completely by surprise. Slater cuts his head toward the window and he sees someone lean down. That someone is John Cable.
TRISTAN SLATER- “What the fuck dude?!?!”
John backs away from Tristan’s car while shrugging his shoulders. Tristan opens the door steps out of the car and into the parking lot of his Marriot-based hotel and slams the door shut.
TRISTAN SLATER- “What are you doing here?”
JOHN CABLE- “I mean, you didn’t think I wouldn’t know that this would be your first stop.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Oh that’s right, I forgot you’re clairvoyant and know everything. My bad.”
JOHN CABLE- “Listen, I’m not so sure what the problem seems to be but I didn’t come here to listen to petty bullshit. I came to talk to my friend.”
Tristan grits his teeth and John catches him.
JOHN CABLE- “What is it? Why are you so angry with me?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “John, I’m going to say this as nice as I possibly can… but didn’t I tell you I’d get in touch with you when I am ready? Popping up on me isn’t what I consider me coming to you.”
JOHN CABLE- “It didn’t stop you from going to see Mac.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Because I was ready to speak to Mac. You and Mac are two totally different people who handle things in two totally different ways.”
Tristan then continues.
TRISTAN SLATER- “But since you’re here, congratulations on your contenders for the Smash Championship. You broke the curse of John Cable and multi-person matches. Let’s just hope that isn’t all for nothing.”
JOHN CABLE- “What’s that supposed to mean?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Come on, John. Are you going to make me say it out loud?”
JOHN CABLE- “What I’m going to do is shut the mouths of everyone who continues to sell me short which includes you if you think that I’m not prepared to tangle with Enigma and take that Smash Championship.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “And I wish you the best of luck with that.”
JOHN CABLE- “Let’s go grab some dinner and talk about this issue because I know something is eating at you. It’s written all over your face.”
Tristan backs away and leans against his rental.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Some other time.”
JOHN CABLE- “What?!?!”
TRISTAN SLATER- “I ate at Mac’s, and like I said before… We will talk when I’m ready to talk.”
Tristan turns his back on John and begins walking toward the awning above the entrance to his hotel. John hollers out in an elevated tone.
JOHN CABLE- “Are you serious right now!?!”
Tristan spins around facing John while walking backward several paces as he responds.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Very.”
Tristan spins back around with his back to John and disappears inside his hotel as the scene fades to black.
Winners advance.
Losers go home.
It’s simple.
Stitches, I think I’ve made it incredibly clear that you are in the wrong place at the wrong time against the wrong opponent. I’m not here to help you, I’m not here to make you look good, and I’m not here for cheap parlor tricks. A wise man once said you can make friends or you can make money.
… I have a lot of friends.
… And I like the money.
The only way to up your status is by carrying one of the Championships.
You are just a means to an end.
You have the element of surprise on your side, that doesn’t bother me. You can bring your mini-me and he can watch you continue your string of failures from the circus to the wrestling ring. I wish you the best of luck… because between us, you’re going to need it. It all comes down to this for me. Can I make this happen for myself? Or am I going to crumble under the pressure? Either way, I just hope a pinfall is involved because countouts leave too much meat on the bone for others to make excuses.
… When I put you down I want you to know it’s not personal.
You’re trying to take food off my table and what you’re about to find out is anytime that anyone reaches my table with a full hand they’re drawing back a nub. I didn’t ask to play this role, Stitches, but if you thought the circus life was unforgiving then just wait until now your body is going to feel after incurring my wrath.
Well if this isn’t a kick in the pants…
When I said I wanted the Intercontinental Championship, or to qualify for it, I never thought in a million years I’d be put in the ring against a clown called Stitches; and yet, here we are. I haven’t had to question a lot since my timely return but to allow someone an opportunity like this right off Jump Street without proving themselves is about the biggest slap to my face than having to accept a win over someone like Devlin via countout. Thankfully we don’t have to worry a whole lot about Stitches or Pogo finding themselves in the mix come First Dance for I will be your savior, I shall set you free. This is all about taking the next step toward staking claim to the only championship that has eluded me in the WGWF, and no creep under makeup is going to change that.
Sorry Stitches, but you’ve drawn the short straw.
Present Day: Port Arthur, Texas
Home of Mac and Amber Bane.
I pulled up to Mac Bane’s ranch in Port Arthur and shut off the engine of my rental car while looking at the massive structure Mac Bane calls home. There is history between Mac Bane and me from other promotions; hell, we made a run at some Tag Straps and were eyelashes away on multiple occasions from getting the job done but for whatever reason the spoils were always just out of reach. There is no denying that I am in a very uncomfortable spot when it comes to Mac Bane and John Cable; both are friends, both are talented, and both of them invoked my name in a personal pissing contest. I’ve got to get this sorted out on both fronts because I am nobody's pawn. The Texas sun isn’t as vicious heading into the winter season. The humidity is almost nonexistent in the air as a light breeze blows from East to West. Mac walked out on his front porch and gave me a wave and a motion to come inside. A simple head nod and I got out of the rental and headed toward the front porch where Mac greeted me with a firm handshake.
MAC BANE- “Good to see you again, brother.”
Mac releases his grip as does Slater.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Good to be seen.”
Tristan’s response puts a smirk on Mac’s face as he motions toward the house with a head nod.
MAC BANE- “Let’s go inside.”
Mac leads Tristan into the foyer of his home.
MAC BANE- “I’ve got us set up in here.”
Mac leads Tristan into a study of sorts, or perhaps it’s Mac’s personal office at home as various displays of career highlights and World Titles he’s won throughout his illustrious career accent the walls. Mac and Slater take a seat.
TRISTAN SLATER- “I don’t know how to talk about this without just talking about it openly before any problems can be created for not only me but for everyone else involved.”
MAC BANE: Let me guess, John?
TRISTAN SLATER- “Something’s been bothering me on both yours and his front that just doesn’t sit well with me. It seemed like you guys had no problem in bringing me into whatever issues you have brewing between the both of you for whatever reason, and the truth is I don’t like being used like a cheap whore.”
Mac looks to say something but Tristan holds up his right hand cutting him off.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Let me finish.”
Tristan lowers his hand.
TRISTAN SLATER- “A lot has changed since we ran the streets together, I mean you are poised for a showdown with Cholo for the World Title, and since my return, I’ve made it clear my intentions are set on claiming the Intercontinental Championship… but I know it’s not a matter of if, but a matter of when things hit a boiling point between you and Cable… The last thing either of you want is me being put in the middle.”
Mac interjects.
MAC BANE- “I hear you, but I think you’re reading a little too deep into this. From my side of this coin invoking your name wasn’t meant to be a shot at you more so than it was calling out a fact. John has a way of running his mouth when it isn’t needed, wanted, or asked for.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “You’re not telling me anything I don’t already know when it comes to John because I know the guy better than he knows himself. I’m just trying to clear the air with you both because the last thing I need is this thing hanging over my head while I am on the road to try and make personal history.”
Tristan continues.
TRISTAN SLATER- “I’ve been watching from a distance, and I can tell that you’ve tapped into that mean streak that has been lying dormant for so long taking things by any means necessary; and who am I to judge, and I’m man enough to wish you the best of luck on your quest I also want you to know that my intentions aren’t to stop with the Intercontinental Championship because that’s just my starting point.”
Everyone has a starting point, right Stitches? This marks yours when it comes to the WGWF and unfortunately for you, it comes in the form of a roadblock known as Tristan Slater. I’ll be the first to admit that when I saw this booking I was left scratching my head as to how this is possibly going to be entertaining for the fans of Dallas, Texas… but then it hit me.
Anyone can paint their face.
Ask John Cable.
So who are you? Why do you paint your face? Why do you masquerade around as a clown? Were you not loved enough as a child? Did your parents not show you enough attention? Did you eat paint chips as a child? I’m seriously asking you because there is no reason a grown man puts on clown makeup unless he’s trying to pull a Gacy. Are you that kind of sick freak? I’m just kidding. I don’t want to make your ankle biter mad.
Even I have jokes.
The harsh fact when it comes to looking across the ring from you is that you could be anybody. You have the mask of the unknown, your abilities are untested, and for all extensive purposes if I were to take you lightly you COULD strip away the fabric of me taking that next step toward the Intercontinental Championship.
I cannot allow that.
I will not allow that.
MAC BANE- “I don’t expect you to be satisfied with the Intercontinental Title, I know it’s just an accolade for you to cement your resume in the WGWF. I know your eyes are going to be on what will be around my waist, and I couldn’t think of a more fitting opponent to be fair. Our chemistry as a team was and is unmatched, which means when the time comes… our chemistry as opponents will be even better.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Let’s not put the horse in front of the race, my road isn’t paved with yellow bricks. I’ve got to fight and claw for everything I’ve gotten. It isn’t easy being one of the few legacy talents in the company. The changes that are happening in our industry are tough to get a grasp on, and the talent levels seem to grow leaps and bounds.”
MAC BANE- “That’s why I love being in the WGWF. It’s a shark tank and you’re either a predator or you’re prey.”
Tristan nods in approval as Mac then asks.
MAC BANE- “I imagine you’ve already spoken with John?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “You are the first stop.”
Mac snickers under his breath.
TRISTAN SLATER- “What’s so funny?”
MAC BANE- “I’m just thinking about how bent he’s going to be when he finds out you came to speak to me before you spoke with him.”
Tristan casually responds.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Knowing him he’s going to get butt-hurt, but he too will understand that I meant what I said… If anybody stands in my way, I’m going to mow them down… I don’t care who you are.”
MAC BANE- “You saw he secured a shot at the Smash Championship?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Yeah.”
Tristan then states.
TRISTAN SLATER- “I’m happy for him just like I’m happy for you when it comes to the World Title shot, and as long as I’m not involved in whatever issues either of you might have I’ll be fine. If you throw blows, you throw blows. Don’t come looking for me to interject or try and be a voice of reason for two grown-ass men.”
MAC BANE- “Listen brother, I’m sorry for throwing your name in the mix with Cable. It wasn't intended to be disrespectful if that’s how it came off.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Listen I don’t think either of you had bad intentions, but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t speak on it and clear that air before moving forward with this portion of my WGWF career because if there is a problem then now is the time for us to solve it.”
Mac nods in understanding.
MAC BANE- “Nah brother, we don’t have an issue. We are all good.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Okay, that’s all I need to hear.”
Tristan gets out of his chair as does Mac Bane. The two men shake hands.
I find it rather amusing that since you’ve come into the WGWF you and Pogo seem to have some sort of obsession with Jenny Myst, don’t get me wrong… she’s quite the looker, but let’s be fair, she’s out of your league. Instead of worrying about sticking your head up her ass, you might want to start worrying about me and what I plan on doing to you when we take center stage on Monday Night Brawl. My quest for the only strap of gold I’ve never held in the confines of this company is at stake, and while things might be fun for you the last thing this is to me is a children’s party.
Oh wait.
You’re a failed Circus Clown is your background? How the fuck do you fail at being a Circus Clown yet expect that in your WGWF debut, you will somehow magically push the levels of your failure aside? I mean it is possible if you are a sham, Anyone can throw on some make-up, anyone can hide behind masks, and anyone can fake a background story. This IS professional Wrestling. Something that won’t be fake is how quickly I am going to introduce you my fists to your face, boots to your ass, and securing my shot at taking the legacy that Cholo created for the Intercontinental Championship to a completely different level.
Whoever the next IC Champion is has some heavy shoes to fill.
Thankfully I’ve got some pretty big feet.
Tristan felt good leaving Mac’s after a filling dinner. He pulled up to his hotel and turned the engine off to my rental. We are just a few days away from what could be the biggest match in Tristan’s return because everything hinges on it. Securing a spot in the Intercontinental Championship match is all that consumes Slater’s mind.
Tristan lets out a deep breath and closes his eyes taking a few moments of meditation for himself.
A hand knocks on the driver's side window causing Tristan to jump in his seat as he’s taken completely by surprise. Slater cuts his head toward the window and he sees someone lean down. That someone is John Cable.
TRISTAN SLATER- “What the fuck dude?!?!”
John backs away from Tristan’s car while shrugging his shoulders. Tristan opens the door steps out of the car and into the parking lot of his Marriot-based hotel and slams the door shut.
TRISTAN SLATER- “What are you doing here?”
JOHN CABLE- “I mean, you didn’t think I wouldn’t know that this would be your first stop.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Oh that’s right, I forgot you’re clairvoyant and know everything. My bad.”
JOHN CABLE- “Listen, I’m not so sure what the problem seems to be but I didn’t come here to listen to petty bullshit. I came to talk to my friend.”
Tristan grits his teeth and John catches him.
JOHN CABLE- “What is it? Why are you so angry with me?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “John, I’m going to say this as nice as I possibly can… but didn’t I tell you I’d get in touch with you when I am ready? Popping up on me isn’t what I consider me coming to you.”
JOHN CABLE- “It didn’t stop you from going to see Mac.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Because I was ready to speak to Mac. You and Mac are two totally different people who handle things in two totally different ways.”
Tristan then continues.
TRISTAN SLATER- “But since you’re here, congratulations on your contenders for the Smash Championship. You broke the curse of John Cable and multi-person matches. Let’s just hope that isn’t all for nothing.”
JOHN CABLE- “What’s that supposed to mean?”
TRISTAN SLATER- “Come on, John. Are you going to make me say it out loud?”
JOHN CABLE- “What I’m going to do is shut the mouths of everyone who continues to sell me short which includes you if you think that I’m not prepared to tangle with Enigma and take that Smash Championship.”
TRISTAN SLATER- “And I wish you the best of luck with that.”
JOHN CABLE- “Let’s go grab some dinner and talk about this issue because I know something is eating at you. It’s written all over your face.”
Tristan backs away and leans against his rental.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Some other time.”
JOHN CABLE- “What?!?!”
TRISTAN SLATER- “I ate at Mac’s, and like I said before… We will talk when I’m ready to talk.”
Tristan turns his back on John and begins walking toward the awning above the entrance to his hotel. John hollers out in an elevated tone.
JOHN CABLE- “Are you serious right now!?!”
Tristan spins around facing John while walking backward several paces as he responds.
TRISTAN SLATER- “Very.”
Tristan spins back around with his back to John and disappears inside his hotel as the scene fades to black.
Winners advance.
Losers go home.
It’s simple.
Stitches, I think I’ve made it incredibly clear that you are in the wrong place at the wrong time against the wrong opponent. I’m not here to help you, I’m not here to make you look good, and I’m not here for cheap parlor tricks. A wise man once said you can make friends or you can make money.
… I have a lot of friends.
… And I like the money.
The only way to up your status is by carrying one of the Championships.
You are just a means to an end.
You have the element of surprise on your side, that doesn’t bother me. You can bring your mini-me and he can watch you continue your string of failures from the circus to the wrestling ring. I wish you the best of luck… because between us, you’re going to need it. It all comes down to this for me. Can I make this happen for myself? Or am I going to crumble under the pressure? Either way, I just hope a pinfall is involved because countouts leave too much meat on the bone for others to make excuses.
… When I put you down I want you to know it’s not personal.
You’re trying to take food off my table and what you’re about to find out is anytime that anyone reaches my table with a full hand they’re drawing back a nub. I didn’t ask to play this role, Stitches, but if you thought the circus life was unforgiving then just wait until now your body is going to feel after incurring my wrath.