Post by soulshadow on Oct 19, 2013 22:47:13 GMT -5
{The trainers’ room in the backstage area after Reloaded. On the examining table sits Aeryn Ashfield, her eyes following the light being shown into it by the doctor standing in front of her. She is still dressed in her wrestling gear, complete with a new accessory of a bandage wrapped around her head. Against the wall stands her Phoenix Rising partner Soul Shadow. He watches the examination intently, lines of concern furrowing his brow. Finally, the doctor clicks off the flashlight. As he stands, he gently touches his patient’s forehead.}
Doctor: For the most part, you are physically okay. However, I suspect you may have a slight concussion from the fall you took. You’re going to need to take it easy for a little while.
Aeryn: I don’t think so, doctor. We have a title match this Friday and we need to prepare…
Doctor: If you don’t take it easy, you won’t be cleared to wrestle that match…
Aeryn: Now you listen to me, you wank…
{Her tirade is cut off by Soul’s arm appearing around her shoulder. Before she can protest, a raised finger to her lips silences her words. Though clearly frustrated, Aeryn finds herself acquiescing to her partner’s aura of command. She wonders if he is even aware of his ability to calmly take control of situation before it gets out hand. Even though it is working against her at the moment, that quality is perhaps one of the strongest reasons why she finds herself drawn to him.}
Soul: Doctor, if she rests for the next couple of days, do you think she will be ready for Friday?
Doctor: Almost certainly. The rest is really a precaution to prevent against an immediate recurrence. She should be back to her regular self within a couple of days. By Friday, she will be completely healed. But only if she takes it easy.
{Aeryn’s mouth opens, yet her objections die on her tongue when her partner smiles at her. Soul offers his hand to the physician.}
Soul: Thanks, doctor. I’ll take care of her from here.
{The doctor returns the gesture, then thrusts his own hand in Aeryn’s direction. Begrudgingly, she takes it in her own while muttering her thanks. As the physician takes his leave, Soul yelps in surprise as his partner slaps him sharply on the arm.}
Soul: What the hell…
Aeryn: God, you’re an arse. I fucking hate the way you do that to me. He deserved to be put in his place as I don’t have time to lay about. We have a rematch with those Iconic Aggression bastards in an “Anything Goes” match…
Soul: Yes, we do. And in case you weren’t listening, if you don’t take care of yourself, you’re going to be in no shape to fight.
Aeryn: Oh, what the hell does he know? I feel fine…
{While speaking, Aeryn hops down from the examination table. She sticks the landing for a moment, but a sudden swoon nearly sends her careening to the floor.}
Aeryn: Whoa…
{Soul reacts with graceful speed, enveloping his partner his arms to steady her. Aeryn regains her bearing relatively quickly, yet she doesn’t pull away immediately. She finds herself being surprised how comforting it is to be held by him. Surprised and perhaps a little scared. Sighing, she tilts her beautiful face upwards to look into his eyes.}
Aeryn: …I’m sorry, Soul.
Soul: Don’t sweat it, Aeryn. If there is anything I’ve learned in the past two months, it’s just how stubborn you can be…
{Soul is sent sprawling across the examining table by his partner’s shove.}
Aeryn: I’m referring to our title match, you idiot. We could be celebrating with our new gold belts if I hadn’t been knocked out…
Soul: It wasn’t your fault at all. Before we went for our finisher, I should have made sure Baxter was flat on his punk ass and unable to interfere. Instead, I made the rookie mistake and forgot about him. He got lucky enough to make us pay for it by causing the double-countout.
Aeryn: No, it’s my fault. I’m supposed to have your back and I didn’t warn you about him. I let you down again…
Soul: Stop that, Aeryn. You’ve never let me down since we’ve met. What happened with the Damned was not your fault and your actions during that time were justified. You need to move on from it. And you need to move on from tonight as well. It’s over and we can’t change what happened.
{Soul approaches Aeryn once more, placing his hands on her shoulders to draw her attention to him.}
Soul: But thanks to Bob, we’ve got a second chance at Unsanctioned. Anything goes. Their bitch Laila banned from the building. Hell, from what I understand, everyone is banned from the building. It’ll be just us, them, and a whole lot of weapons. A perfect chance to pay those arrogant assholes back for what they did to our friends in the Resistance. For what they tried to do to you tonight. We ain’t going to have to worry about one of them trying to save his partner when we go for the pin. By the time we are done, they’ll be lucky to be breathing.
{Aeryn feels his gentle touch on her injured forehead.}
Soul: But we only get that chance if you let the doctor’s words get through that hard head and you let yourself rest.
{Aeryn’s whole body exudes defiance, but Soul stands his ground. Slowly, her resolve erodes. Once again she finds that scared feeling creeping into her. No one in her life had ever before been able to have such an effect on her. Deep inside, she still isn’t sure whether it is truly a good or bad thing.}
Aeryn: Fine, you win. I’ll sequester myself in my apartment…
Soul: Uh huh. You’re coming back to Boston and staying at my place. It’s the only way I can keep an eye on you to make sure you do as the doctor ordered.
Aeryn: What? You want me to play house with you? Are you daft? Me and Shakira under the same roof for nearly a week?
Soul: Shakira has her own place, so that wouldn’t be an issue.
Aeryn: Regardless, I can take care of my own damn self. Can you give me one good reason why I should stay with you?
Soul: I’ll give you three. One, as we’ve been all business the last few trips you’ve come to Boston, I can take the time to show you the city. Two, Hunter really likes you and would love to have you around. And lastly and most importantly, there’s this…
{Before she knows what is happening, Aeryn finds herself drawn into a deep kiss. In that moment, the nervousness about her growing feelings for her partner melts like ice sitting in the July sun. Once again she marvels at the effect he is having on her, one she has never experienced in all of her years.}
{And how much she is coming to enjoy it.}
{After an eternity, the two break apart. Soul gives a shy grin, perhaps amazed himself that he is finally opening himself to her. Looking at him like this makes her decision rather easy.}
Aeryn: Guess I have to get up early so I can get my plane ticket changed…
{Soul laughs at her response. He wraps his arms around her in a hug and the two share one more kiss as the scene fades…}
{Early evening in Massachusetts at the home of Soul Shadow. Having looked in on his partner who is currently sleeping in his guest bedroom, he has entered his office in order to start the preparations for their next match against Iconic Aggression. Sitting down in his chair, he slips a DVD into his player. Leaning back, he watches intently as the two members of Iconic Aggression appear on his screen. The sight of the two men immediately brings forth a sense of anger as he watches match after match of them outmaneuver, outmuscle, and cheat their opponents in the course of their victories. In his usual ritual, he studies the tapes long and hard to discover a weakness in the IA unit. He searches for anything he and Aeryn could use as an advantage and, perhaps more pressing for him, allow him to keep his injured partner out of danger.}
{Hours pass until finally even his dedicated focus wavers slightly. He starts to think back on the events of Reloaded. Their mistimed double team that contributed to Aeryn’s knock-out blow, the near post match attack...the kiss. That kiss. He licks his lips in an almost unconscious attempt to remember the taste of her. He had wanted to do that for such a long time, but fear had held him back. Fear. He almost laughs at himself for it sounds so absurd. But if truth be told, he would be willing take the beating the Damned had given him over again, rather than face the fear of ruining their friendship. So what had changed?}
{A knock on the door brings him back to his senses. He gets up as he hears Aeryn’s voice outside.}
Aeryn: Hey, Soul are you in there?... I got a little cold so, I borrowed a shirt. I hope you don't mind?
{Opening the door, he is confronted by the sight of Aeryn wearing one of his New England Patriot jerseys.}
Soul: Wow... I mean... Where did you find that?
Aeryn: It was in one of the closets in the guest room. The other clothes in there seemed to be Hunter’s and I didn't pack any sweaters when I left Chicago. This was the only thing I could find that fitted.
{She pulls the jersey back on to her shoulder.}
Aeryn: If it’s a problem I can go and take another look...
Soul: No, no… of course it’s no problem... Just haven't seen that shirt in a while that's all.
Aeryn: Thanks.
{She smiles as she turns her back and starts walking down the hallway towards the kitchen.}
Aeryn: I made dinner. I hope you’re hungry?
{Soul watches her walk off for a few moments, a sly grin across his face. Catching on to what she just said, his expression quickly changes as he follows after her.}
Soul: You’re here as our guest, plus your recovering from a concussion. The doctor said you should be resting.
(She turns to face him, a somewhat weary expression crossing her features.}
Aeryn: Soul, I’m cooking pasta, not taking a power bomb. I’m sure the good doctor will allow me to do that. Plus, you have taken such good care of me for a few days now. I just wanted to do something to show my gratitude. A meal is the least I can do. Plus it's nice to have other people around to cook for. I enjoy it.
{She turns to stir her pot as Soul leans against the counter next to her.}
Soul: Yeah?! I wouldn't have pinned you as someone that enjoys the whole family life thing.
Aeryn: Just because I don't have it, doesn't mean I don't miss it or don't want it. It's... nice being here with you and Hunter. Even though it is just for a week of rest and recovery, I've enjoyed being here with you...
{Before Soul can interject, Aeryn cuts him off.}
Aeryn: …So what happened to the promise of showing me around the sights of Boston?
(She smiles up at him as she turns off the stove and begins to fuss around the kitchen, plating up their meal.}
Soul: We still have plenty of time for that. I just wanted to give you the chance to rest up like the doctor said you should. (He chuckles lightly.} Plus I didn’t want to have you swooning into my arms again. Here let me help you with that.
{He takes the plates from her. Walking across the room, he sets them down on the table.}
Aeryn (laughing): Sure you didn’t…
{He turns to her, a touch of red creeping into his cheeks. An amused smile plays on his lips.}
Soul: You don’t believe me Miss Ashfield? I’m hurt.
{He raises a hand placing it on his chest.}
Aeryn: I believe you... I believe you enjoyed it!
{She smiles as she walks across the room to join him the table.}
Soul: Enjoyed it?! ...Pssh… Now what in the world would I find enjoyable about holding a beautiful woman in my arms?
{Now it is her turn to blush.}
Aeryn: Covered in sweat, with a head bandage. So sexy!
{Soul laughs as he pulls her chair out for her to sit down before taking his own. They sit in silence for a while tucking into the meal.}
Aeryn: Where is Hunter, anyway? I couldn’t find him when I woke up?
Soul: He’s visiting Shakira, he should be home later tonight.
{He catches the look of concern on Aeryn’s face.}
Soul: …don’t worry, she’s not coming in. She made that more than clear!
Aeryn (nodding): I’m sorry I’m causing such a split in your family, I know how close you two are… were… before I showed up…
{He puts his hand on top of hers.}
Soul: Will you stop apologizing? Shakira is the one with the chip on her shoulder. She’ll get over it. She’ll have to… We’re a team.
Aeryn (smiling): Yes we are… Soul…
Soul: Yeah?
Aeryn: …when I said I enjoyed being here with you… I meant it.
{He smiles back, placing the palm of his hand against her cheek while stroking it with his thumb.}
Soul: I know.
{Placing her hand on top of his, she turns her head and kisses him before letting go. Content in each other’s company, they go back to their meal. Soul glances over at his partner, finally able to answer his earlier question. “What had changed?” … She had feelings for him to.}
{The empty Stampede Corral Arena in Calgary, one night before Unsanctioned. A single spotlight shines from the top of the building, spotlighting the ring in the middle of the floor. Oddly, there is no rampway, no video screens, no pyrotechnics… not even something small like a set of sparklers. Unlike a normal MPW production, the arena is completely devoid of any hint of spectacle. By all appearances, the set-up is more appropriate for an indy show than a major national promotion.}
{The camera focuses its attention on two people sitting at ringside, just inside the circle of illumination provided by the spotlight. Though the pair has only been part of the promotion for relatively short time, the viewers easily recognize the fast rising stars Aeryn Ashfield and Soul Shadow. Collectively known as Phoenix Rising, the duo is challenging Iconic Aggression for the World Tag Team titles in an “Anything Goes” match at Unsanctioned. Most people would be extremely anxious about facing Trey Baxter and Jackson Blaze in such a contest given the swath of destruction they have laid since High Stakes. However, both Aeryn and Soul look calm and collected, as if waiting to leave for a relaxing day in the park. As the shot closes tightly on them, Soul begins to speak.}
Soul: Tomorrow night, in this very building, a war is going to take place. Phoenix Rising. Iconic Aggression. The World Tag Team titles. To be decided in an “Anything Goes” match. That means no rules. No job for the referee other than to count the pinfall. No fans for their own safety. No interference from anyone, thanks to Bob’s promise of a pink slip. And ultimately… no mercy for anyone involved.
Aeryn: One can guess the thoughts of Blaze and Baxter. Hell, even our supporters are probably of the same mind. No doubt they believe we are quaking in our boots imagining what they have planned for us. After all, they’ve spent the past fortnight thoroughly humiliating their main rivals the Resistance. Chrissy was savagely beaten and nearly crippled. Johnny has twice left Reloaded in the back of an ambulance. Brandon has joined Gabe on the “Missing Persons” blotter. Roxi’s matches are repeated marred by Trey’s childish interference. They’ve been running around this fed like they have owned it since the day it opened its doors. In their minds, they are the self-styled gods of MPW. How can Soul and I, who have only been here two short months, hope to stand against them?
{Soul holds his arm to the camera, pulling back the sleeve. The skin is scored with a series of scars, some old and very faded, others fresh and still healing, all a testament to his long history in this business.}
Soul: Lest you think a match of this brutality scares me in the least, boys, let me clue you in on something. I didn’t choose Stone Sour’s “Made of Scars” simply because it is an awesome song by an incredible band. I picked it as it perfectly represents my wrestling career.
{He points to a few of the more prominent marks on his forearm.}
Soul: Every single one of these on every part of my body has been earned battling for my goals in this sport. I’ve gotten ones from steel cages. I’ve gotten ones from exposed turnbuckles. From steel chairs. From shattered tables. And that is just from my time in MPW. I’ve also got ones from chains, glass shards, baseball bats, wooden boards, barbed wire, steel barricades… the list is endless. I’ve put my body through hell in pursuit of wrestling excellence, and I’m not even close to being done yet.
{Aeryn lifts her foot onto the barricade in front of them, rolling back the pants leg of her sweats. A small scar can be seen just above her shapely ankle.}
Aeryn: Surgery after an opponent sandwiched it between two chairs and jumped on it repeatedly from the top turnbuckle.
{Aeryn turns her back towards the camera while raising her ponytail. Another scar can be seen at the base of her neck.}
Aeryn: Surgery for a cracked vertebrae after receiving a spiked piledriver on the concrete outside the ring.
{Aeryn lowers the ponytail and turns to the camera once more.}
Aeryn: That’s just the surgeries. I’ve had bones broken, muscles torn, cut opened, skin bruised… you name the injury, I’ve probably suffered it form my ring action. Last week wasn’t the first time I’ve been knocked out while wrestling. I’m sure it won’t be the last. And having someone like Blaze try to end my career after the match? I’d be richer than my partner here if I had a dime for every opponent who ever tried that.
Soul: Truth is, Trey and Jackass, you don’t get to where Aeryn and I have been without experiencing the pains and agonies that come with putting yourself across the ring from some of the most vicious assholes on the planet. The Resistance may have underestimated just how far you are willing to go in order to show your allegedly superiority. However, we’ve been around too long in this sport. We’ve fought bigger, badder, bitchier, bloodier, brawnier… and not only have we survived, but we have trophy cases decorated with gold to showcase our success in putting them down. Though dangerous for sure, this match is old hat for two veterans like us.
{Aeryn once again smiles at the camera.}
Aeryn: You think your attempted assault scared me, Jackson? I’ve lived through far worse than your pitiful effort. Though I do wonder why you felt such a need to do it. Do strong women intimidate you, Jackson? Beating up a helpless Chrissy one week… coming after my unconscious body the next… for someone of such impressive pedigree, you seem to have deep-seated issue with doing whatever it takes to end their careers. Do you really fear being beaten by them that much? Or maybe… just maybe…
{One can almost see a lightbulb appear over her head as a new idea dawns.}
Aeryn: …the true reason is a little closer to “home”. Perhaps you are acting out your insecurities of being over-shadowed your much more famous and popular wife, Kahlan “Bliss” Blaze. After all, that pretty Sin City title you carry was made famous by her reign and battles with both Rage and Roxi. She was in the World title picture far more recently than you. And since she has left MPW, the fans all over the dirt sheets have been begging for her to return. When you took your recent sabbatical, no one outside of Trey gave a damn if you ever showed your face in this fed again. For all your accomplishments, you seem to be forever doomed to live in her shadow. It’s no wonder you are taking out your frustrations on every single lady who crosses you path. You’re just trying to make up for your own inadequacies.
Soul: And he isn’t the only one. Since he lost… no, since he GAVE UP the World Heavyweight title by tapping out to Roxi’s Justice Lock, he’s been whining worse than a toddler fighting his bed time. Despite being practically assured a rematch simply due to the money it would generate on pay-per-view, he’s been jumping at her at every single turn, demanding his title shot. He wasted no time accusing her of ducking him, of refusing to defend her new title. In fact, he implied through his Twitter feed she isn’t even worthy of the belt, as to his mind she is not a fighting champion…
{Soul’s lips twist into the snarl.}
Soul: If that’s your view of a proper champion, Trey, then you and Baxter ought to just hand the belts over the moment you enter the building. Prior to facing us last week, the last time Iconic Aggression defended the title was four… FOUR… months ago. And even then, you only made two defenses before treating those belts like nothing more than pretty accessories around your waist. Aeryn and I have teamed together more in the past six weeks than you have title bouts in your nearly five month joke of a reign. You are right, Trey, true champions do fight for their titles. But true champions also walk the walk, rather than just sit back and bore us with talk.
{Aeryn stands from her seat, leaning over the barricade to get closer to the camera.}
Aeryn: Are you ready for your first true test of your Tag Title reign, Iconic Aggression? Don’t make the mistake of thinking we are like the Resistance. They preferred to play mind games in order to throw you off your game. Phoenix Rising, we’re prefer to give MORE than we get. Hit us in the face, and we’ll crack open your skull. Try to break our legs, and we’ll cripple all your limbs. Try to end our careers, and we’ll reserve in your spot in the morgue. Veterans like us know the best way to deal with rabid dogs is not to play with them, but to put them down. Tomorrow, we will have the tools available to do just that. By the end of the night, Trey and Jackson, you are going to be left broken on the floor, bleeding all over the floor. But don’t worry, boys, Soul and I will be ones to clean up the gold.
{Soul stands next to her, placing his hand on her shoulder.}
Soul: So why do we think we can stand against Iconic Aggression? Because, Trey and Jackass, if you guys are MPW’s gods…
{A smirk once again lines his features.}
Soul: …then Phoenix Rising are MPW’s atheists.
Aeryn: The false tag team idols get torn down tomorrow, boys. Don’t be late.
{Aeryn winks at the camera as the duo leaves to the right. The camera slowly pans to the middle, once again showcasing the empty ring underneath the lone spotlight. It stays there as the scene slowly fades.}
Doctor: For the most part, you are physically okay. However, I suspect you may have a slight concussion from the fall you took. You’re going to need to take it easy for a little while.
Aeryn: I don’t think so, doctor. We have a title match this Friday and we need to prepare…
Doctor: If you don’t take it easy, you won’t be cleared to wrestle that match…
Aeryn: Now you listen to me, you wank…
{Her tirade is cut off by Soul’s arm appearing around her shoulder. Before she can protest, a raised finger to her lips silences her words. Though clearly frustrated, Aeryn finds herself acquiescing to her partner’s aura of command. She wonders if he is even aware of his ability to calmly take control of situation before it gets out hand. Even though it is working against her at the moment, that quality is perhaps one of the strongest reasons why she finds herself drawn to him.}
Soul: Doctor, if she rests for the next couple of days, do you think she will be ready for Friday?
Doctor: Almost certainly. The rest is really a precaution to prevent against an immediate recurrence. She should be back to her regular self within a couple of days. By Friday, she will be completely healed. But only if she takes it easy.
{Aeryn’s mouth opens, yet her objections die on her tongue when her partner smiles at her. Soul offers his hand to the physician.}
Soul: Thanks, doctor. I’ll take care of her from here.
{The doctor returns the gesture, then thrusts his own hand in Aeryn’s direction. Begrudgingly, she takes it in her own while muttering her thanks. As the physician takes his leave, Soul yelps in surprise as his partner slaps him sharply on the arm.}
Soul: What the hell…
Aeryn: God, you’re an arse. I fucking hate the way you do that to me. He deserved to be put in his place as I don’t have time to lay about. We have a rematch with those Iconic Aggression bastards in an “Anything Goes” match…
Soul: Yes, we do. And in case you weren’t listening, if you don’t take care of yourself, you’re going to be in no shape to fight.
Aeryn: Oh, what the hell does he know? I feel fine…
{While speaking, Aeryn hops down from the examination table. She sticks the landing for a moment, but a sudden swoon nearly sends her careening to the floor.}
Aeryn: Whoa…
{Soul reacts with graceful speed, enveloping his partner his arms to steady her. Aeryn regains her bearing relatively quickly, yet she doesn’t pull away immediately. She finds herself being surprised how comforting it is to be held by him. Surprised and perhaps a little scared. Sighing, she tilts her beautiful face upwards to look into his eyes.}
Aeryn: …I’m sorry, Soul.
Soul: Don’t sweat it, Aeryn. If there is anything I’ve learned in the past two months, it’s just how stubborn you can be…
{Soul is sent sprawling across the examining table by his partner’s shove.}
Aeryn: I’m referring to our title match, you idiot. We could be celebrating with our new gold belts if I hadn’t been knocked out…
Soul: It wasn’t your fault at all. Before we went for our finisher, I should have made sure Baxter was flat on his punk ass and unable to interfere. Instead, I made the rookie mistake and forgot about him. He got lucky enough to make us pay for it by causing the double-countout.
Aeryn: No, it’s my fault. I’m supposed to have your back and I didn’t warn you about him. I let you down again…
Soul: Stop that, Aeryn. You’ve never let me down since we’ve met. What happened with the Damned was not your fault and your actions during that time were justified. You need to move on from it. And you need to move on from tonight as well. It’s over and we can’t change what happened.
{Soul approaches Aeryn once more, placing his hands on her shoulders to draw her attention to him.}
Soul: But thanks to Bob, we’ve got a second chance at Unsanctioned. Anything goes. Their bitch Laila banned from the building. Hell, from what I understand, everyone is banned from the building. It’ll be just us, them, and a whole lot of weapons. A perfect chance to pay those arrogant assholes back for what they did to our friends in the Resistance. For what they tried to do to you tonight. We ain’t going to have to worry about one of them trying to save his partner when we go for the pin. By the time we are done, they’ll be lucky to be breathing.
{Aeryn feels his gentle touch on her injured forehead.}
Soul: But we only get that chance if you let the doctor’s words get through that hard head and you let yourself rest.
{Aeryn’s whole body exudes defiance, but Soul stands his ground. Slowly, her resolve erodes. Once again she finds that scared feeling creeping into her. No one in her life had ever before been able to have such an effect on her. Deep inside, she still isn’t sure whether it is truly a good or bad thing.}
Aeryn: Fine, you win. I’ll sequester myself in my apartment…
Soul: Uh huh. You’re coming back to Boston and staying at my place. It’s the only way I can keep an eye on you to make sure you do as the doctor ordered.
Aeryn: What? You want me to play house with you? Are you daft? Me and Shakira under the same roof for nearly a week?
Soul: Shakira has her own place, so that wouldn’t be an issue.
Aeryn: Regardless, I can take care of my own damn self. Can you give me one good reason why I should stay with you?
Soul: I’ll give you three. One, as we’ve been all business the last few trips you’ve come to Boston, I can take the time to show you the city. Two, Hunter really likes you and would love to have you around. And lastly and most importantly, there’s this…
{Before she knows what is happening, Aeryn finds herself drawn into a deep kiss. In that moment, the nervousness about her growing feelings for her partner melts like ice sitting in the July sun. Once again she marvels at the effect he is having on her, one she has never experienced in all of her years.}
{And how much she is coming to enjoy it.}
{After an eternity, the two break apart. Soul gives a shy grin, perhaps amazed himself that he is finally opening himself to her. Looking at him like this makes her decision rather easy.}
Aeryn: Guess I have to get up early so I can get my plane ticket changed…
{Soul laughs at her response. He wraps his arms around her in a hug and the two share one more kiss as the scene fades…}
{Early evening in Massachusetts at the home of Soul Shadow. Having looked in on his partner who is currently sleeping in his guest bedroom, he has entered his office in order to start the preparations for their next match against Iconic Aggression. Sitting down in his chair, he slips a DVD into his player. Leaning back, he watches intently as the two members of Iconic Aggression appear on his screen. The sight of the two men immediately brings forth a sense of anger as he watches match after match of them outmaneuver, outmuscle, and cheat their opponents in the course of their victories. In his usual ritual, he studies the tapes long and hard to discover a weakness in the IA unit. He searches for anything he and Aeryn could use as an advantage and, perhaps more pressing for him, allow him to keep his injured partner out of danger.}
{Hours pass until finally even his dedicated focus wavers slightly. He starts to think back on the events of Reloaded. Their mistimed double team that contributed to Aeryn’s knock-out blow, the near post match attack...the kiss. That kiss. He licks his lips in an almost unconscious attempt to remember the taste of her. He had wanted to do that for such a long time, but fear had held him back. Fear. He almost laughs at himself for it sounds so absurd. But if truth be told, he would be willing take the beating the Damned had given him over again, rather than face the fear of ruining their friendship. So what had changed?}
{A knock on the door brings him back to his senses. He gets up as he hears Aeryn’s voice outside.}
Aeryn: Hey, Soul are you in there?... I got a little cold so, I borrowed a shirt. I hope you don't mind?
{Opening the door, he is confronted by the sight of Aeryn wearing one of his New England Patriot jerseys.}
Soul: Wow... I mean... Where did you find that?
Aeryn: It was in one of the closets in the guest room. The other clothes in there seemed to be Hunter’s and I didn't pack any sweaters when I left Chicago. This was the only thing I could find that fitted.
{She pulls the jersey back on to her shoulder.}
Aeryn: If it’s a problem I can go and take another look...
Soul: No, no… of course it’s no problem... Just haven't seen that shirt in a while that's all.
Aeryn: Thanks.
{She smiles as she turns her back and starts walking down the hallway towards the kitchen.}
Aeryn: I made dinner. I hope you’re hungry?
{Soul watches her walk off for a few moments, a sly grin across his face. Catching on to what she just said, his expression quickly changes as he follows after her.}
Soul: You’re here as our guest, plus your recovering from a concussion. The doctor said you should be resting.
(She turns to face him, a somewhat weary expression crossing her features.}
Aeryn: Soul, I’m cooking pasta, not taking a power bomb. I’m sure the good doctor will allow me to do that. Plus, you have taken such good care of me for a few days now. I just wanted to do something to show my gratitude. A meal is the least I can do. Plus it's nice to have other people around to cook for. I enjoy it.
{She turns to stir her pot as Soul leans against the counter next to her.}
Soul: Yeah?! I wouldn't have pinned you as someone that enjoys the whole family life thing.
Aeryn: Just because I don't have it, doesn't mean I don't miss it or don't want it. It's... nice being here with you and Hunter. Even though it is just for a week of rest and recovery, I've enjoyed being here with you...
{Before Soul can interject, Aeryn cuts him off.}
Aeryn: …So what happened to the promise of showing me around the sights of Boston?
(She smiles up at him as she turns off the stove and begins to fuss around the kitchen, plating up their meal.}
Soul: We still have plenty of time for that. I just wanted to give you the chance to rest up like the doctor said you should. (He chuckles lightly.} Plus I didn’t want to have you swooning into my arms again. Here let me help you with that.
{He takes the plates from her. Walking across the room, he sets them down on the table.}
Aeryn (laughing): Sure you didn’t…
{He turns to her, a touch of red creeping into his cheeks. An amused smile plays on his lips.}
Soul: You don’t believe me Miss Ashfield? I’m hurt.
{He raises a hand placing it on his chest.}
Aeryn: I believe you... I believe you enjoyed it!
{She smiles as she walks across the room to join him the table.}
Soul: Enjoyed it?! ...Pssh… Now what in the world would I find enjoyable about holding a beautiful woman in my arms?
{Now it is her turn to blush.}
Aeryn: Covered in sweat, with a head bandage. So sexy!
{Soul laughs as he pulls her chair out for her to sit down before taking his own. They sit in silence for a while tucking into the meal.}
Aeryn: Where is Hunter, anyway? I couldn’t find him when I woke up?
Soul: He’s visiting Shakira, he should be home later tonight.
{He catches the look of concern on Aeryn’s face.}
Soul: …don’t worry, she’s not coming in. She made that more than clear!
Aeryn (nodding): I’m sorry I’m causing such a split in your family, I know how close you two are… were… before I showed up…
{He puts his hand on top of hers.}
Soul: Will you stop apologizing? Shakira is the one with the chip on her shoulder. She’ll get over it. She’ll have to… We’re a team.
Aeryn (smiling): Yes we are… Soul…
Soul: Yeah?
Aeryn: …when I said I enjoyed being here with you… I meant it.
{He smiles back, placing the palm of his hand against her cheek while stroking it with his thumb.}
Soul: I know.
{Placing her hand on top of his, she turns her head and kisses him before letting go. Content in each other’s company, they go back to their meal. Soul glances over at his partner, finally able to answer his earlier question. “What had changed?” … She had feelings for him to.}
{The empty Stampede Corral Arena in Calgary, one night before Unsanctioned. A single spotlight shines from the top of the building, spotlighting the ring in the middle of the floor. Oddly, there is no rampway, no video screens, no pyrotechnics… not even something small like a set of sparklers. Unlike a normal MPW production, the arena is completely devoid of any hint of spectacle. By all appearances, the set-up is more appropriate for an indy show than a major national promotion.}
{The camera focuses its attention on two people sitting at ringside, just inside the circle of illumination provided by the spotlight. Though the pair has only been part of the promotion for relatively short time, the viewers easily recognize the fast rising stars Aeryn Ashfield and Soul Shadow. Collectively known as Phoenix Rising, the duo is challenging Iconic Aggression for the World Tag Team titles in an “Anything Goes” match at Unsanctioned. Most people would be extremely anxious about facing Trey Baxter and Jackson Blaze in such a contest given the swath of destruction they have laid since High Stakes. However, both Aeryn and Soul look calm and collected, as if waiting to leave for a relaxing day in the park. As the shot closes tightly on them, Soul begins to speak.}
Soul: Tomorrow night, in this very building, a war is going to take place. Phoenix Rising. Iconic Aggression. The World Tag Team titles. To be decided in an “Anything Goes” match. That means no rules. No job for the referee other than to count the pinfall. No fans for their own safety. No interference from anyone, thanks to Bob’s promise of a pink slip. And ultimately… no mercy for anyone involved.
Aeryn: One can guess the thoughts of Blaze and Baxter. Hell, even our supporters are probably of the same mind. No doubt they believe we are quaking in our boots imagining what they have planned for us. After all, they’ve spent the past fortnight thoroughly humiliating their main rivals the Resistance. Chrissy was savagely beaten and nearly crippled. Johnny has twice left Reloaded in the back of an ambulance. Brandon has joined Gabe on the “Missing Persons” blotter. Roxi’s matches are repeated marred by Trey’s childish interference. They’ve been running around this fed like they have owned it since the day it opened its doors. In their minds, they are the self-styled gods of MPW. How can Soul and I, who have only been here two short months, hope to stand against them?
{Soul holds his arm to the camera, pulling back the sleeve. The skin is scored with a series of scars, some old and very faded, others fresh and still healing, all a testament to his long history in this business.}
Soul: Lest you think a match of this brutality scares me in the least, boys, let me clue you in on something. I didn’t choose Stone Sour’s “Made of Scars” simply because it is an awesome song by an incredible band. I picked it as it perfectly represents my wrestling career.
{He points to a few of the more prominent marks on his forearm.}
Soul: Every single one of these on every part of my body has been earned battling for my goals in this sport. I’ve gotten ones from steel cages. I’ve gotten ones from exposed turnbuckles. From steel chairs. From shattered tables. And that is just from my time in MPW. I’ve also got ones from chains, glass shards, baseball bats, wooden boards, barbed wire, steel barricades… the list is endless. I’ve put my body through hell in pursuit of wrestling excellence, and I’m not even close to being done yet.
{Aeryn lifts her foot onto the barricade in front of them, rolling back the pants leg of her sweats. A small scar can be seen just above her shapely ankle.}
Aeryn: Surgery after an opponent sandwiched it between two chairs and jumped on it repeatedly from the top turnbuckle.
{Aeryn turns her back towards the camera while raising her ponytail. Another scar can be seen at the base of her neck.}
Aeryn: Surgery for a cracked vertebrae after receiving a spiked piledriver on the concrete outside the ring.
{Aeryn lowers the ponytail and turns to the camera once more.}
Aeryn: That’s just the surgeries. I’ve had bones broken, muscles torn, cut opened, skin bruised… you name the injury, I’ve probably suffered it form my ring action. Last week wasn’t the first time I’ve been knocked out while wrestling. I’m sure it won’t be the last. And having someone like Blaze try to end my career after the match? I’d be richer than my partner here if I had a dime for every opponent who ever tried that.
Soul: Truth is, Trey and Jackass, you don’t get to where Aeryn and I have been without experiencing the pains and agonies that come with putting yourself across the ring from some of the most vicious assholes on the planet. The Resistance may have underestimated just how far you are willing to go in order to show your allegedly superiority. However, we’ve been around too long in this sport. We’ve fought bigger, badder, bitchier, bloodier, brawnier… and not only have we survived, but we have trophy cases decorated with gold to showcase our success in putting them down. Though dangerous for sure, this match is old hat for two veterans like us.
{Aeryn once again smiles at the camera.}
Aeryn: You think your attempted assault scared me, Jackson? I’ve lived through far worse than your pitiful effort. Though I do wonder why you felt such a need to do it. Do strong women intimidate you, Jackson? Beating up a helpless Chrissy one week… coming after my unconscious body the next… for someone of such impressive pedigree, you seem to have deep-seated issue with doing whatever it takes to end their careers. Do you really fear being beaten by them that much? Or maybe… just maybe…
{One can almost see a lightbulb appear over her head as a new idea dawns.}
Aeryn: …the true reason is a little closer to “home”. Perhaps you are acting out your insecurities of being over-shadowed your much more famous and popular wife, Kahlan “Bliss” Blaze. After all, that pretty Sin City title you carry was made famous by her reign and battles with both Rage and Roxi. She was in the World title picture far more recently than you. And since she has left MPW, the fans all over the dirt sheets have been begging for her to return. When you took your recent sabbatical, no one outside of Trey gave a damn if you ever showed your face in this fed again. For all your accomplishments, you seem to be forever doomed to live in her shadow. It’s no wonder you are taking out your frustrations on every single lady who crosses you path. You’re just trying to make up for your own inadequacies.
Soul: And he isn’t the only one. Since he lost… no, since he GAVE UP the World Heavyweight title by tapping out to Roxi’s Justice Lock, he’s been whining worse than a toddler fighting his bed time. Despite being practically assured a rematch simply due to the money it would generate on pay-per-view, he’s been jumping at her at every single turn, demanding his title shot. He wasted no time accusing her of ducking him, of refusing to defend her new title. In fact, he implied through his Twitter feed she isn’t even worthy of the belt, as to his mind she is not a fighting champion…
{Soul’s lips twist into the snarl.}
Soul: If that’s your view of a proper champion, Trey, then you and Baxter ought to just hand the belts over the moment you enter the building. Prior to facing us last week, the last time Iconic Aggression defended the title was four… FOUR… months ago. And even then, you only made two defenses before treating those belts like nothing more than pretty accessories around your waist. Aeryn and I have teamed together more in the past six weeks than you have title bouts in your nearly five month joke of a reign. You are right, Trey, true champions do fight for their titles. But true champions also walk the walk, rather than just sit back and bore us with talk.
{Aeryn stands from her seat, leaning over the barricade to get closer to the camera.}
Aeryn: Are you ready for your first true test of your Tag Title reign, Iconic Aggression? Don’t make the mistake of thinking we are like the Resistance. They preferred to play mind games in order to throw you off your game. Phoenix Rising, we’re prefer to give MORE than we get. Hit us in the face, and we’ll crack open your skull. Try to break our legs, and we’ll cripple all your limbs. Try to end our careers, and we’ll reserve in your spot in the morgue. Veterans like us know the best way to deal with rabid dogs is not to play with them, but to put them down. Tomorrow, we will have the tools available to do just that. By the end of the night, Trey and Jackson, you are going to be left broken on the floor, bleeding all over the floor. But don’t worry, boys, Soul and I will be ones to clean up the gold.
{Soul stands next to her, placing his hand on her shoulder.}
Soul: So why do we think we can stand against Iconic Aggression? Because, Trey and Jackass, if you guys are MPW’s gods…
{A smirk once again lines his features.}
Soul: …then Phoenix Rising are MPW’s atheists.
Aeryn: The false tag team idols get torn down tomorrow, boys. Don’t be late.
{Aeryn winks at the camera as the duo leaves to the right. The camera slowly pans to the middle, once again showcasing the empty ring underneath the lone spotlight. It stays there as the scene slowly fades.}
