Post by Aloysius Marcus Vance IV on Jun 22, 2022 17:23:17 GMT -6
The feed to the conference opens up somewhat quietly with a few shots taken from outside the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia earlier in the day. The day is bright and sunny, the skies are blue and folks are starting to filter into the building, splitting between the arena level and the convention level as the finishing touches are being made to start the event. In the aforementioned arena level, the HYBRID ring is set up with a section of the arena’s main floor prepared for members of the press to relax and pose their questions. The stage is set up as well, much as it will be for Vanguard #0 in two weeks. There is little pomp and circumstance for the moment, but certainly that is due to change.
Jumping ahead to the present moment, the seats and benches are filled and there’s a podium in the ring, along with some modest seating for the guests. Cameras are up and running, the big screen has been activated and the excitement is beginning to build. Beyond the press, there are some fans in the seats on various levels, ready to witness what’s coming, and those folks get rather loud when “Danger Zone” by No Resolve feat. State of Mine starts to play. A graphical montage for Vanguard starts to play in time with the music over the big screen, adding to the excitement.
And down in the ring, a familiar face to long-time fans of HYBRID: the one and only Spirit Montego, resuming her ring announcing duties, stands in the middle of the ring with a microphone, dressed in a champagne-colored dress and looking quite fetching.
Spirit Montego: Ladies and gentlemen… welcome to the State Farm Arena and to the press conference leading in to the return of HYBRID Wrestling!
Much excitement comes from the crowd, fans and journalists alike, which Spirit pauses to acknowledge before continuing her address.
Spirit Montego: Now, without any further ado, allow me to introduce our hosts for the evening, the commentary team for HYBRID Vanguard coming to you every second Wednesday night: first of all, a warm welcome as she returns to her old post, the witty and charming Bernadette Olson!
Walking out onto the stage in a smart black business suit, Bernadette flashes a snarky smile and waves to those present.
Spirit Montego: And her partner at the table, a newcomer to HYBRID, please welcome Jacob Frankel!
Coming out a few moments after the announcement, Jacob looks a bit nervous at first, but like turning on a switch he acclimates to the moment and takes a bow, both he and Bernadette producing microphones.
Spirit Montego: Take it away, you two!
Taking her leave from the ring, the cameras turn to focus on the Vanguard commentary team, with Bernadette starting things off.
Bernadette Olson: And just like that it feels like we never left. HYBRID Nation, we are BACK! And tonight is just a kick-off for what’s to come! You’re going to be meeting live and in person, as well as via video, several of the stars looking to make a name for themselves as part of the rEvolution! But that’s far from all, isn’t that right, Jacob?
Jacob Frankel: Truer words ne’er spoken, my dear colleague!
Bernadette Olson: Hamming it up already, are we?
Jacob Frankel: No time like the present! After all the entire board of directors is here, along with some of the most well-known journalists in wrestling today! Why, I heard even Denzel Porter is here!
At this announcement, Bernadette looks legitimately, and pleasantly, surprised.
Bernadette Olson: Well, well… instant credibility! Can’t beat that!
Nodding enthusiastically, Jacob stays right there in the groove he’s started digging for himself.
Jacob Frankel: There’s so very much to get to tonight, especially when it comes to our growing roster! New stars and old, rookies and veterans, we’ve got a little bit of everything! Why, I even heard that the new boss has some surprises in store!
Bernadette Olson: And that the OLD boss might be lurking around somewhere, too. That could get interesting.
Jacob Frankel: Oh, without a doubt! But remember, this is the NEW HYBRID… the rEvolution! Nowhere to go from here but up! And speaking of, it seems that one of our newest signees has a message for the fans, so let’s send it over to the one and only… Stephanie Kenyon!
After hearing from a couple of HYBRID’s new stars, and a part of the former incarnation making their return, the cameras cut back to the conference taking place within the arena. A few of the media specialists for HYBRID’s front office are answering questions from the gathered press, while Bernadette and Jacob are still on stage, microphones in hand.
Bernadette Olson: Definitely pleased to see Natural Resources back on the roster! Young ladies full of energy and skill!
Jacob Frankel: Stephanie Kenyon, too! Gold is in that young lady’s blood, I can tell you that! But it’s time to send it down near the ring where Marina Flores and Dennis Folsom are standing by!
The queue is given and the view changes, taking us down to the main floor where the interviewers in question are standing at the ready. Marina is stunning in a red jacket and skirt with matching heels, while Dennis is in a tailored, charcoal-gray suit, wearing an almost-goofy grin which displays well his enthusiasm.
Dennis Folsom: Greetings, wrestling fans! Dennis Folsom here with the very talented Marina Flores at my side! And what a conference so far! I’ve counted at least half a dozen magazine writers, a couple high-end reporters and more, all here just to see about the rEvolution!
A faint blush at Dennis’s compliment is given, but ever the professional, Marina is right on topic.
Marina Flores: And even the illustrious Denzel Porter is gracing us with his presence! But that’s not all! As Mr. Vance stated earlier in the week, we have some former HYBRID stars here to observe!
As they address the fans, however, off in the distance among some of the crowd is a man in a trenchcoat, the collar drawn up to mask most of his face. Neither Marina nor Dennis see him and, a few moments later, he has disappeared into the throngs. The distraction is enough that, for a moment, we lose track of what the interviewers are saying, the camera also straying to follow the mystery man before turning back to Flores and Folsom.
Dennis Folsom: -and over there… wow, is that Gavin Thorne?!
The former Ascension GM it most certainly is, the powerfully-built fellow chatting with a younger man, his black hair pulled into a taut ponytail at the base of his neck, wearing a sand-colored suit that offsets the black of Gavin’s, a beautiful young woman with purple hair on his arm, wearing a dress that matches said colored locks.
Marina Flores: And his predecessor, Damon Cross, with Danni Anderson!
Dennis Folsom: What’re we waiting for?!
Marina looks a little wary at first, but Dennis is already in motion, heading over to where two of HYBRID’s former power-brokers stand.
Dennis Folsom: Mr. Thorne! Mr. Cross! Mrs. Cross!
The three turn, Danni with a smile, Gavin with a nod and Damon with something resembling a smirk.
Damon Cross: Mrs. Debaillion, actually. You’re one of the new folks in HYBRID, I take it? Nice to meet you.
Gavin Thorne: Indeed. A pleasure to see who’s stepping up for the new incarnation.
Danni is quiet for the moment, but still offers a smile… both to Dennis and to Marina who is making her way over. Dennis, perhaps nervously excited given the level of it, shakes Damon’s hand, then Gavin’s.
Marina Flores: It’s an honor to meet you both, though kind of surprising given the sides you two were on back in the day.
How could anyone forget that? The God of Ascension being deposed and Gavin taking his spot as GM? That was a wild time. Gavin makes an expression of restrained amusement while Damon laughs, shaking his head.
Damon Cross: I was full of a lot of bull back then. Thankfully, I had someone to show me the light.
His hand finds and takes Danni’s, causing her to blush and smile. Marina loves the sight of this and Dennis seems heartened by it, too.
Gavin Thorne: No matter what went down, though, we both had in common the fact that we loved this place. And now, we’re both quite eager to see what becomes of it.
Dennis Folsom: Even though the goal is to surpass the past in every way?
Bit of pride in that comment, but Damon nods firmly and claps Dennis on the shoulder, even as Marina rolls her eyes at what she would have considered a verbal snafu on her colleague’s part.
Damon Cross: Absolutely! Never be satisfied to be AS good. Always strive to be better. That’s the attitude the entire company should have, from the office to the locker room.
Marina Flores: Well said, sir! You all enjoy the rest of the conference!
Dennis Folsom: Let’s send it back up to Bernadette and Jacob!
They do just that, the cameras shifting back to the stage.
Bernadette Olson: Things are getting very busy already! Marina and Dennis running into two legends of HYBRID and our getting to meet some new and returning stars already? The stage is being well set!
Jacob Frankel: Ah, but this is just the appetizer, Bernadette! I’ll be there’s even more surprises in store!
And in the next moment, the camera cuts away again to introduce more new additions to the HYBRID roster!
After we hear from La Non Pardonné en masse, we’re taken down to the convention level of the State Farm Center. Far from the ring, seats and podium, here we have booths, refreshments and a lot of eager fans. As with above, though, we see the man in the trenchcoat again… though in a blink he’s gone again, disappearing between booths and into the crowd. So swiftly, in fact, that neither Grave Savoy nor Hikaru Yamamoto, two more of HYBRID’s interviewers, completely miss him!
Grace Savoy: A warm welcome to everyone! My name is Grace Savoy and I’m here in the convention level with another of HYBRID’s veterans who is returning to make her mark once again: the one and only Hikaru Yamamoto!
Hikaru Yamamoto: You’re too kind, Grace! And goodness, what a turnout, huh? This place is packed!
Grace Savoy: It most certainly is! And why wouldn’t it be? There’s people to meet, gear to acquire and plenty of food and drink!
It was almost hard to get around, but the young ladies with microphones did all right. They come upon some fans in line for shirts with the Vanguard logo and decide to pose some questions.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Hello there! Looking forward to the first show of HYBRID’s return?
Male Fan: Oh, hell yeah! I was a fan back in the day, too! Your show’s gonna be back, ain’t it?
Grace Savoy: A Hikaru’s Haven fan!
The young man nods enthusiastically, while Hikaru blushes just a bit.
Grace Savoy: I don’t think you have to worry, sir. I’m pretty sure that that’s in the cards! But who should she interview first?
Male Fan: Maybe that Clayton Kane guy? I thought I saw him lurkin’ around here, but then he was gone!
Hikaru Yamamoto: That sounds… creepy.
Grace Savoy: You’ve talked to more dangerous than that, Hikaru! I remember!
Both ladies chuckle at that one before they move toward another line, this time speaking to a pair of female fans.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Ladies! Who do you think will come out on top in the Global Heavyweight Tournament?!
Surprised just to be asked, the young women whisper between themselves for a few excited moments before turning back with smiles.
Female Fan #1: Gotta go with Sam Tolson there!
Female Fan #2: Maybe SHE does! My money’s on Tyler Matthews!
Grace Savoy: Good choices, both! One is a skilled veteran and the other is dangerous…
Hikaru Yamamoto: ...but you could say the same about either one!
Female Fans: Exactly!
The giggling spreads to all four, even the seemingly more well-controlled Grace! She and Hikaru step away from the lines and once more address the camera.
Grace Savoy: As you can see, the excitement is already building down here with the HYBRID Nation!
Hikaru Yamamoto: Now, though, it’s time to introduce a few more members of our illustrious roster: Eddy Todd and Noah Ortega!
Grace Savoy: The latter flanked by his associates, The Lost!
The show returns to the arena level where there’s a bit of a buzz in the air. Standing to the left side of the stage, Bernadette Olson and Jacob Frankel are ready to welcome the fans back. One other difference is that, in the ring, there are three well-dressed folks carrying themselves with a somewhat-serious air. There is excitement about them, to be sure, but it looks as though they’re keeping it controlled for the moment.
Bernadette Olson: Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen. As you can see, three members of HYBRID’s Board of Directors are already in the ring: Laytoya Crask, Jayson Perez and Elizabeth Grey.
Jacob Frankel: The Chief Officers of Finances, Operations and Media, respectively. Hand-picked by the CEO for their talent and experience.
Bernadette Olson: Mr. Vance took his time gathering this crew… and I’m getting word that his right-hand man, and our Chief Security Officer, is on his way out…
She’s right on the money: “Hardwired” by Metallica starts up and an imposing man with a trimmed beard and mustache, dressed in a black silk shirt over jeans and boots, comes out onto the stage. He immediately gives off the aura of someone who isn’t to be trifled with, much less approached at random. Some of the fans on this level know him and cheer his presence, but his stoic expression doesn’t change one iota. He marches down to the ring and enters between the ropes, only pausing to shake hands with the rest of the board before taking up a spot between Elizabeth and the podium in the center.
Jacob Frankel: That would be him… Trenton Mitchell, better known as Forge to his friends and the Martyr Machine to his opponents and enemies.
Bernadette Olson: If Mr. Vance was looking for the perfect form to dissuade trouble, he found it. How he’ll handle the business-type stuff I can only guess.
Jacob Frankel: I doubt Mr. Vance would have put him in that position without serious thought. I hear they go way back.
“Hardwired” fades out, soon to be replaced by the classic “Sharp Dressed Man” by ZZ Top, heralding the arrival of the CEO himself, HYBRID’s new owner, Aloysius Marcus Vance! There’s respect applause for the new owner and fourth-generation lawyer as he makes his way to the ring, shaking hands, pausing for selfies, and basically working the crowd like a career politician.
Bernadette Olson: He seems to have little problem getting on the peoples’ good side, eh?
Jacob Frankel: You don’t sound impressed, Bernadette! That man is the Defender of Justice and the Purveyor of Truth, in the flesh!
Bernadette Olson: I suppose so, though those nicknames don’t mean so much anymore. Now his most important name is ‘boss’.
Entering the ring, AMV, like his second, shakes hands with everyone save Trenton, to whom he whispers something before taking the podium as “Sharp Dressed Man” fades out.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Well, look at THIS turn-out! I expected some attention, but this is above and beyond the call. You people are amazing! Why, Denzel Porter even accepted our invitation! Pleasure seeing you in the house, my friend! Your time won’t be wasted!
Cameras cut to Denzel for a moment, who flashes a grin and acknowledges the comment before AMV is back on business, and on camera.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: It has been an informative night so far. Folks have gotten to see some of the folks who will be coming into their televisions, phones and computers in two weeks, such as Noah Ortega, Eddy Todd, Stephanie Kenyon and more… and there’s plenty more to come. But first, before opening the floor to questions, I want to formally introduce my board, starting with Miss Elizabeth Grey, our Chief Media Officer!
Elizabeth rises and nods as AMV lays out some details.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: This talented young woman will be in charge of our advertising, social media accounts and working with television stations and subscription services to make sure HYBRID is bringing the rEvolution to as many screens as possible! She has a dedicated crew behind her as well, determined to get the word out and keep it at the forefront of everyone’s minds. And, next up, Jayson Perez, our Cheif Operations Officer!
The Latin gentleman directly to AMV’s left rises, nodding to those present. Camera flashes are going off and many a portal device is being held up to record the information given.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Production staff, agents and in essence all the folks that put our shows on the air answer to this man, who has over a decade of experience in bringing some of your favorite shows to national television and the Internet! He will no doubt be the backbone of Vanguard, Battle Damage and all our pay-per-view events in the future. But I know you’re up to the pressure, aren’t ya, Jayson?!
The man in question grins and nods, making it clear that he is VERY much prepared. AMV applauds this and even Trenton cracks something resembling a very small smile. The dark-skinned lady next to Jayson stands now as AMV begins to address the journalists and fans about her.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: And THIS… is Latoya Crask, our Chief Financial Officer. So if you have trouble with your paycheck, take it to her, not me!
There’s some mirth among the press corps. Latoya rolls her eyes and we can see her mouth “gee, thanks” toward AMV, who laughs at his own joke.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Jokes aside, Mrs. Crask will assure that both we, and the fans, get the most for their money. Running a wrestling company is no cheap endeavor; even the smallest companies have to keep a very tight grip on their finances, but given her degrees and experience, I wouldn’t put anyone but Latoya in charge of our purse strings, myself included.
Nodding affirmatively, Latoya smiles again before taking her seat. Now AMV turns towards the big man to his right and takes a deep breath.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: And I think some of you already know this gentleman…
Trenton maintains his seat for the moment, which seems to make this more challenging for AMV.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: ...mostly for his time in the ring. However, now he is both our Chief Security Officer and my second-in-command: the Martyr Machine, Trenton “Forge” Mitchell.
He rises now, does Forge, nodding to those watching. AMV offers him the microphone but Forge shakes his head and retakes his seat. A man of few words, this one.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Getting right to the point? We know the kind of chaos that wrestling invites, the kind of shenanigans that people get up to because they feel that anything goes in this business. And to an extent, it does. But there ARE limits. Trenton, here, will see that those limits are enforced. One way, or another. His actions are 100% backed up by myself and if he says it will happen, it’s the same as my saying so.
No small amount of foreboding there. AMV lets that hang in the air for a moment before speaking again, back to his charming smile.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Now! With that said, let’s open the floor to some questions!
However, at that point, the cameras return to Bernadette and Jacob on the stage.
Jacob Frankel: I’d say HYBRID is in good hands…
Bernadette Olson: Highly doubt anyone’s gonna buck AMV’s authority withs someone like Forge standing next to him. Which I suppose is the point.
Jacob Frankel: I dunno about that. Some people can be pretty thick.
Bernadette Olson: Oh, I could tell you some stories there…
She’s referring, no doubt, to her previous tenure in HYBRID.
Bernadette Olson: ...but we’re going to take a break and, after that, we’ll have some words from Katie Anderson and the tag teams Podunky Dunk Nation and 2 Broke Chicks!
We’re back to the main floor after the messages from more of HYBRID’s roster, with Marina Flores standing by alongside Dennis Folsom.
Marina Flores: Quite an event so far! Not many companies would be so open about how things are done, but I’m enjoying the transparency of HYBRID thus far!
Dennis Folsom: Same here. But it’s only a drop in the bucket; there are many and more looking to make their mark on the company.
Marina Flores: La Non Pardonné is a team in particular that looks like they have a lot of potential. The only team with more energy than them on the roster would be Natural Resources. A match between them would be quite exciting!
Dennis Folsom: You’re absolutely right, but my eyes are on the Bisque Dolls. They radiate an energy that immediately puts opponents on defense, and their manager definitely helps that along. I would not be surprised to see them walk out of Vanguard #0 with gold around their waists.
Marina Flores: Well, if we’re talking about who’s coming out with gold, my money is on The Lost. Or perhaps Natural Resources.
Dennis nods in agreement, the teams in question being shown on the big screen as the two talk about them, risen high in the background.
Dennis Folsom: But since we’re talking about winners… let’s look at the Global Heavyweight Tournament. Sixteen talents are slated for that, from fresh rookies to hardened veterans. That’s a much harder choice to make, wouldn’t you say?
Marina Flores: For sure. Experience counts for a lot, but you can’t exclude the possibility that a newcomer or dark horse will take it all. I wouldn't’ count out Noah Ortega, for instance, but neither would I close the book on Eddy Todd.
Dennis Folsom: You mentioned newbies, so what about Mikaela Callaway? Or Stephanie Kenyon?
Marina Flores: Good choices. How about Duke Andrews?
Dennis Folsom: Yeah, that’s where my money goes. Talk about a hunger to have it all so they can lord it over the crowd.
Marina Flores: Sometimes that’s all you need!
Both nod in agreement despite their disparate picks, the faces once again shuffling past on the big screen as they do so.
Dennis Folsom: The future indeed looks bright for the rEvolution!
Marina Flores: And with that in mind, let’s hear from a few more of the stars… in this case, Darcy Graves, Alessandra Diaz and Super Tiger!
Back down in the convention area, there’s some excitement going around… even more so than before. A large number of fans are lined up near one of the displays, each one holding tickets to Vanguard #0 taking place in two weeks! There’s many a happy face, whether it be on an adult or a child, and it generally makes everyone feel good. AMV went all-out with the contest, though, as not a single soul is without a bag of goodies, each one filled with not-yet-available merchandise for HYBRID.
Hikaru and Grace are still milling about, too, getting a few words in with some of the winners as well as a few others in attendance!
Hikaru Yamamoto: As you can see, fans, no one is leaving disappointed today! A good fifty ticket packages have been awarded to lucky fans, and five all-access passes, too!
Grace Savoy: And everyone is leaving with merchandise packages for goodies not even posted yet on our website! Methinks our CFO might be having words with the boss after the conference!
Hikaru Yamamoto: Oh, I’m sure she sees the good in it!
Both women smile for the camera, though as they’re about to speak again, they happen upon a couple of the new roster members for HYBRID, including Rayola Devine and Super Tiger, both of whom are enjoying some interaction with the fans. La Non Pardonné is present as well, but seem to be more… selective… about who they interact with.
Grace Savoy: Not everyone is a people person, I suppose.
Hikaru Yamamoto: You learn to live with it, Grace. It’s all right, though. There are plenty of heroes for the good people to latch on to…
Grace Savoy: ...and baddies for them to jeer, right?
Hikaru Yamamoto: Now you’re catching on!
The pair moves along a little more, but Hikaru pauses suddenly. The camera follows her view, which has Grace pausing, then looking in the same direction, then back again.
Grace Savoy: Is that…?
Hikaru Yamamoto: It is.
Showing uncharacteristic boldness, Hikaru walks up to the pair in question: a tall, dark-haired gentleman with a strong build and, on his arm, a slender woman with an easy smile and a dark beauty about her. Taking a deep breath, Hikaru speaks up.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Mr. Donavan? Mrs. Donavan?
Sure enough, the man turns and it is indeed Eric Donavan, the founder and former owner of HYBRID, alongside his wife, Lyra. The two aren’t necessarily going for the incognito look, yet surprisingly they aren’t besieged by the fans. Somehow, one gets the feeling that they prefer it this way. Eric is in a dark grey suit this evening while Lyra affects a black satin evening gown, clearly dressing to impress even if they prefer their solitude.
Hikaru Yamamoto: I… would have expected you to be up on the arena level, hearing from Mr. Vance.
Eric glances up for a moment, then shrugs and returns his attention to Hikaru.
Eric Donavan: No need. He has everything well in hand without me being a distraction. Why ruin his moment?
Hikaru Yamamoto: I mean, wouldn’t you consider it passing the torch?
Eric Donavan: Passing it? No. I left it laying, for better or worse, and he decided to pick it up. We did business, he made an offer and now HYBRID is under new ownership.
Grace Savoy: You sound rather blase about it if you don’t mind my saying so.
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: You’re blunt. I like that.
Grace turns to Lyra, who smiles at her like she’s something tasty to eat.
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: Do not be mistaken: my husband got an excellent deal for what he created. Now it is time for HYBRID to become something more, something new. He would not have sold it to someone who he felt might dishonor what he created. There’s just-
Eric Donavan: -no need to dwell on the past. This is the future. The HYBRID Nation’s calls are being answered. Vance and his board, they have a vision. I agree with this vision. That’s all there is to it.
Hikaru Yamamoto: What about yourselves?
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: In my case, wrestling is over… unless someone wants to make a deal that’s worth my time. Until then, I’ll see about opening a third Soul Garden here in Atlanta. That’s more than enough to keep me busy.
Hikaru nods a little, both sad and eager, if such a combination is possible. Grace, however, turns to Eric.
Grace Savoy: It is hard to imagine that you’re entirely done with wrestling, though, Mr. Donavan.
Smirking a little, Eric takes off his dark shades and tucks them into his jacket pocket. Lyra turns to look up at him, rather questioningly… as though they had not personally discussed such things. Stroking his goatee a little, Eric speaks calmly, slowly… with meaning.
Eric Donavan: The best way I can answer that is… I am always prepared to enter a wrestling ring, Miss Savoy, provided I am shown the respect I am due. Frankly, most companies out there don’t know shit about shit. You can tell that by the alarming rate at which they go under. That is the reason Mr. Vance has my blessing. But to answer your half-question? No. I am NOT done in wrestling. But truthfully, I don’t think there’s a company out there that suits me. Yet.
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: Now, if you’ll excuse us, ladies?
And so they do, watching as Eric and Lyra move off into the crowd like ghosts.
Hikaru Yamamoto: That was nerve-wracking. But on the other hand, it is nice to know that the new HYBRID has the old HYBRID’s blessing, right?
Grace Savoy: I believe you’re right. Now, we have a few more stars to hear from before we send it back upstairs.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Indeed we do… including the Bisque Dolls and Bianca Davis!
When the conference returns from its final break, the ring is cleared out save for a microphone, and it is in the hand of Aloysius Marcus Vance IV, flanked by Trenton Mitchell. The big man stands with thickly-muscled arms folded across his broad chest while AMV, his free hand in his pocket, brings up the stick. The rest of the arena is darkened a bit, the spotlight on the man in charge.
Bernadette Olson: Looks like it’s time, Jacob, to run down what we can expect to see at Vanguard #0!
Jacob Frankel: And not to brag, but we got the best seats in the house, right there at ringside! Well… along with a few lucky fans from earlier that won ringside seats! Gotta envy them!
Letting the murmurs and excitement simmer a little longer, AMV finally brings up the microphone.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: In two weeks, ladies and gentlemen, this ring will see a massive event take place within it. Five titles up for grabs through two tournaments and three multi-person and multi-team matches. Vanguard #0… an event appropriately titled “Change the World”.
Because we aim to do just that.
More murmurs, now of agreement, and some shouts of excitement. AMV soaks this up before continuing on.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Sixteen men and women will face off in a one-night tournament for the Global Heavyweight Championship. Eight teams will battle in a similar tournament for the Global Tag Team Championships. The Vanguard Championship will be decided on in an Egregious Eight-Way Ladder Match. The Iron Heart Championship will be up for grabs in a Savage Six-Way Elimination Match. And the Brotherhood/Sisterhood Titles will be determined in a Fatal Four-Way Tornado Tag Team Match. So as you can see… there’s literally something for everyone to shoot for.
That certainly gets some attention. It is no wonder that the gates open at four! A show with that much to offer can’t help but run several hours!
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: But where do we go from there, you ask? How about having our first pay-per-view, Fall of Man, on September 25th?
Trenton nods firmly in the background, whispering something to Vance which makes the boss-man grin and whisper back before addressing the crowd once more.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: But that’s enough talking, wouldn’t you say? It’s two weeks until Vanguard #0, and I expect to see everyone there, at the genesis of the rEvolution!
And with that, the conference is brought to a close, cameras cutting back to the stage and the Vanguard commentary team to bring things to a finish.
Bernadette Olson: They were looking to start with a bang and so they did!
Jacob Frankel: Rather, they lit the fuse and that massive explosion is taking place right here in Atlanta in two weeks!
Bernadette Olson: You’re not gonna wanna miss it folks! The same week that this country celebrates its independence you’re gonna see some REAL fireworks in that ring!
Jacob Frankel: We’ll see you then!
Fade to black.
Jumping ahead to the present moment, the seats and benches are filled and there’s a podium in the ring, along with some modest seating for the guests. Cameras are up and running, the big screen has been activated and the excitement is beginning to build. Beyond the press, there are some fans in the seats on various levels, ready to witness what’s coming, and those folks get rather loud when “Danger Zone” by No Resolve feat. State of Mine starts to play. A graphical montage for Vanguard starts to play in time with the music over the big screen, adding to the excitement.
And down in the ring, a familiar face to long-time fans of HYBRID: the one and only Spirit Montego, resuming her ring announcing duties, stands in the middle of the ring with a microphone, dressed in a champagne-colored dress and looking quite fetching.
Spirit Montego: Ladies and gentlemen… welcome to the State Farm Arena and to the press conference leading in to the return of HYBRID Wrestling!
Much excitement comes from the crowd, fans and journalists alike, which Spirit pauses to acknowledge before continuing her address.
Spirit Montego: Now, without any further ado, allow me to introduce our hosts for the evening, the commentary team for HYBRID Vanguard coming to you every second Wednesday night: first of all, a warm welcome as she returns to her old post, the witty and charming Bernadette Olson!
Walking out onto the stage in a smart black business suit, Bernadette flashes a snarky smile and waves to those present.
Spirit Montego: And her partner at the table, a newcomer to HYBRID, please welcome Jacob Frankel!
Coming out a few moments after the announcement, Jacob looks a bit nervous at first, but like turning on a switch he acclimates to the moment and takes a bow, both he and Bernadette producing microphones.
Spirit Montego: Take it away, you two!
Taking her leave from the ring, the cameras turn to focus on the Vanguard commentary team, with Bernadette starting things off.
Bernadette Olson: And just like that it feels like we never left. HYBRID Nation, we are BACK! And tonight is just a kick-off for what’s to come! You’re going to be meeting live and in person, as well as via video, several of the stars looking to make a name for themselves as part of the rEvolution! But that’s far from all, isn’t that right, Jacob?
Jacob Frankel: Truer words ne’er spoken, my dear colleague!
Bernadette Olson: Hamming it up already, are we?
Jacob Frankel: No time like the present! After all the entire board of directors is here, along with some of the most well-known journalists in wrestling today! Why, I heard even Denzel Porter is here!
At this announcement, Bernadette looks legitimately, and pleasantly, surprised.
Bernadette Olson: Well, well… instant credibility! Can’t beat that!
Nodding enthusiastically, Jacob stays right there in the groove he’s started digging for himself.
Jacob Frankel: There’s so very much to get to tonight, especially when it comes to our growing roster! New stars and old, rookies and veterans, we’ve got a little bit of everything! Why, I even heard that the new boss has some surprises in store!
Bernadette Olson: And that the OLD boss might be lurking around somewhere, too. That could get interesting.
Jacob Frankel: Oh, without a doubt! But remember, this is the NEW HYBRID… the rEvolution! Nowhere to go from here but up! And speaking of, it seems that one of our newest signees has a message for the fans, so let’s send it over to the one and only… Stephanie Kenyon!
The camera finds Stephanie “Wildcat” Kenyon standing outside in the sunshine.
Stephanie Kenyon: I’m excited for this opportunity. You got people like Mikaela Callaway and me and then you got people like Katie Anderson, Cass Baumer, Duke Andrews and Super Tiger. You couldn’t ask for a better mix of top shelf veterans and rookies to start with than this!
She nods excitedly.
Stephanie Kenyon: My cousin helped build the name Hybrid, no matter what Duke Andrews wants to say about himself. He ain’t never done half as much as she did and now I;m here to both carry on the family legacy and carry on my girls’ legacy too. The Kingdom were a big deal in Hybrid, they’re a big deal now and I’m gonna make sure everybody remembers both for a long damn time to come!
She grins as she turns to the camera.
Stephanie Kenyon: Y’all ready? Cause it’s time to have fun, Wildcat Style!
Stephanie Kenyon: I’m excited for this opportunity. You got people like Mikaela Callaway and me and then you got people like Katie Anderson, Cass Baumer, Duke Andrews and Super Tiger. You couldn’t ask for a better mix of top shelf veterans and rookies to start with than this!
She nods excitedly.
Stephanie Kenyon: My cousin helped build the name Hybrid, no matter what Duke Andrews wants to say about himself. He ain’t never done half as much as she did and now I;m here to both carry on the family legacy and carry on my girls’ legacy too. The Kingdom were a big deal in Hybrid, they’re a big deal now and I’m gonna make sure everybody remembers both for a long damn time to come!
She grins as she turns to the camera.
Stephanie Kenyon: Y’all ready? Cause it’s time to have fun, Wildcat Style!
A camera finds GoGo and Rain, Natural Resources, standing outside by the door to the building.
GoGo: OOOOOH! I’m so excited! Hybrid’s coming back and it’s gonna be so COOOL!!!!!
Rain nods her agreement.
Rain: Ain’t it, Goldi? We get to come back to where we started and help start the place all over again!
GoGo starts almost bouncing with excitement where she stands.
GoGo: And we’re gonna get to get in the ring with 2BC, the Bisque Dolls, Podunky Dunk, The Lost AND La Non Pardonné! And there’ll be more too! It’s too AWESOME!!!!!!
Rain nods, equally as excited.
Rain: You ain’t wrong, Goldi. We’re gonna get to wrestle all of them and it’s gonna be the coolest thing EVER!
The two look into the camera.
GoGo: We can’t wait to see you all there!
GoGo: OOOOOH! I’m so excited! Hybrid’s coming back and it’s gonna be so COOOL!!!!!
Rain nods her agreement.
Rain: Ain’t it, Goldi? We get to come back to where we started and help start the place all over again!
GoGo starts almost bouncing with excitement where she stands.
GoGo: And we’re gonna get to get in the ring with 2BC, the Bisque Dolls, Podunky Dunk, The Lost AND La Non Pardonné! And there’ll be more too! It’s too AWESOME!!!!!!
Rain nods, equally as excited.
Rain: You ain’t wrong, Goldi. We’re gonna get to wrestle all of them and it’s gonna be the coolest thing EVER!
The two look into the camera.
GoGo: We can’t wait to see you all there!
After hearing from a couple of HYBRID’s new stars, and a part of the former incarnation making their return, the cameras cut back to the conference taking place within the arena. A few of the media specialists for HYBRID’s front office are answering questions from the gathered press, while Bernadette and Jacob are still on stage, microphones in hand.
Bernadette Olson: Definitely pleased to see Natural Resources back on the roster! Young ladies full of energy and skill!
Jacob Frankel: Stephanie Kenyon, too! Gold is in that young lady’s blood, I can tell you that! But it’s time to send it down near the ring where Marina Flores and Dennis Folsom are standing by!
The queue is given and the view changes, taking us down to the main floor where the interviewers in question are standing at the ready. Marina is stunning in a red jacket and skirt with matching heels, while Dennis is in a tailored, charcoal-gray suit, wearing an almost-goofy grin which displays well his enthusiasm.
Dennis Folsom: Greetings, wrestling fans! Dennis Folsom here with the very talented Marina Flores at my side! And what a conference so far! I’ve counted at least half a dozen magazine writers, a couple high-end reporters and more, all here just to see about the rEvolution!
A faint blush at Dennis’s compliment is given, but ever the professional, Marina is right on topic.
Marina Flores: And even the illustrious Denzel Porter is gracing us with his presence! But that’s not all! As Mr. Vance stated earlier in the week, we have some former HYBRID stars here to observe!
As they address the fans, however, off in the distance among some of the crowd is a man in a trenchcoat, the collar drawn up to mask most of his face. Neither Marina nor Dennis see him and, a few moments later, he has disappeared into the throngs. The distraction is enough that, for a moment, we lose track of what the interviewers are saying, the camera also straying to follow the mystery man before turning back to Flores and Folsom.
Dennis Folsom: -and over there… wow, is that Gavin Thorne?!
The former Ascension GM it most certainly is, the powerfully-built fellow chatting with a younger man, his black hair pulled into a taut ponytail at the base of his neck, wearing a sand-colored suit that offsets the black of Gavin’s, a beautiful young woman with purple hair on his arm, wearing a dress that matches said colored locks.
Marina Flores: And his predecessor, Damon Cross, with Danni Anderson!
Dennis Folsom: What’re we waiting for?!
Marina looks a little wary at first, but Dennis is already in motion, heading over to where two of HYBRID’s former power-brokers stand.
Dennis Folsom: Mr. Thorne! Mr. Cross! Mrs. Cross!
The three turn, Danni with a smile, Gavin with a nod and Damon with something resembling a smirk.
Damon Cross: Mrs. Debaillion, actually. You’re one of the new folks in HYBRID, I take it? Nice to meet you.
Gavin Thorne: Indeed. A pleasure to see who’s stepping up for the new incarnation.
Danni is quiet for the moment, but still offers a smile… both to Dennis and to Marina who is making her way over. Dennis, perhaps nervously excited given the level of it, shakes Damon’s hand, then Gavin’s.
Marina Flores: It’s an honor to meet you both, though kind of surprising given the sides you two were on back in the day.
How could anyone forget that? The God of Ascension being deposed and Gavin taking his spot as GM? That was a wild time. Gavin makes an expression of restrained amusement while Damon laughs, shaking his head.
Damon Cross: I was full of a lot of bull back then. Thankfully, I had someone to show me the light.
His hand finds and takes Danni’s, causing her to blush and smile. Marina loves the sight of this and Dennis seems heartened by it, too.
Gavin Thorne: No matter what went down, though, we both had in common the fact that we loved this place. And now, we’re both quite eager to see what becomes of it.
Dennis Folsom: Even though the goal is to surpass the past in every way?
Bit of pride in that comment, but Damon nods firmly and claps Dennis on the shoulder, even as Marina rolls her eyes at what she would have considered a verbal snafu on her colleague’s part.
Damon Cross: Absolutely! Never be satisfied to be AS good. Always strive to be better. That’s the attitude the entire company should have, from the office to the locker room.
Marina Flores: Well said, sir! You all enjoy the rest of the conference!
Dennis Folsom: Let’s send it back up to Bernadette and Jacob!
They do just that, the cameras shifting back to the stage.
Bernadette Olson: Things are getting very busy already! Marina and Dennis running into two legends of HYBRID and our getting to meet some new and returning stars already? The stage is being well set!
Jacob Frankel: Ah, but this is just the appetizer, Bernadette! I’ll be there’s even more surprises in store!
And in the next moment, the camera cuts away again to introduce more new additions to the HYBRID roster!
A video package begins with flashing images of a young woman’s face under a black and white filter; the opening riff to Avenged Sevenfold’s “Unholy Confessions” serving as the background music as the same young woman is seen sitting in front of the HYBRID logo inside an interview room.
Mikaela Callaway: My name is Mikaela Callaway. I’m from Virginia Beach, Virginia.
A recorded clip plays of an announcer calling her name as Mikaela steps through the curtain at an indy event in her ring gear and leather jacket. She throws up the horns with one hand and approaches the ring.
Mikaela Callaway: I’ve been a wrestling fan since I can remember. Guess you could say I was the little girl who played with wrestling figures when everyone else played with Barbie.
Mikaela blushes, laughing at herself in her seat. A short picture slide shows her at different points in her childhood, all wrestling related. As a toddler with a pair of figures in hand, as an adolescent in a wrestling shirt standing at a signing event with veteran wrestler Ashe Corvin.
Mikaela Callaway: I started training when I was 13.
Old footage shows a young, teenage Mikaela inside a practice ring, running the ropes, doing mat rolls, taking back bumps.
Mikaela Callaway: I’ve been working local shows in my hometown for about two years now.
Switching back to old clips of Mikaela at indy shows, we get a quick set of clips showcasing what she has to bring to the HYBRID ring: ducking a clothesline from an opponent and coming back with a Tornado DDT. With a different opponent, she slips under a punch, the opponent turns and she feeds them a stiff superkick that pops throughout the arena.
Crowd: OHHHH!!
Commentator 1: HOLY SHIT!
Commentator 2: Somebody check the mat for teeth!
Mikaela Callaway: How’d I feel when I got a phone call from HYBRID? I felt…ready. I was born for this. I’m ready for this.
We get another old match clip. MIkaela standing, stone faced as a taller, male opponent, clearly underestimating her looms over her, trash talking as he pats her on the head. Mikaela answers, promptly, with an explosive forearm to the jaw that staggers him back before running off the ropes and Basement Dropkicking his feet from out underneath him.
Mikaela Callaway: The fact that they reached out to me says they see how great I am at my age. I’m a lot of things. I’m a trash talker.
Cue another indy clip of MIkaela jawjacking back and forth with another opponent, motioning down towards his waist with raised eyebrows as she turns to the crowd and makes a quip about his “Small Package.” The opponent explodes into a furious tantrum.
Crowd: WHOOOOOOO!!!
Commentator 1: HAHA, ohhhhhhhh nooooo she didn’t!
Commentator 2: Hahahaha, oh yes she did!
Mikaela Callaway: ...I’m an asskicker…
More in-ring action shots of Mikaela dishing out the pain. Superkicks, running lariats, diving crossbodies; she hits her slingshot hurricanrana to an opponent onto the ringside floor. She drills another with her slingshot DDT. She dives off of the top turnbuckle, hitting her 450 Splash finisher.
Mikaela Callaway: ...I’ll be the first one to admit, I’m a straight up bitch.
In a ring, an opponent is down on one knee as Mikaela slings trash talk and slaps them repeatedly in the face and over the head.
Mikaela Callaway: One thing I’m not? One thing I will never be? Is a disappointment.
Another clip: boom! “Mikaela’s Way” is executed, drilling an opponent onto their head. We’re shown this move several more times with her hooking the leg afterwards. On the last one, the ref makes the three count.
Mikaela Callaway: HYBRID is back. It’s a new age of professional wrestling. I am the next generation.
Mikaela is seen celebrating in the ring, a little bit of an attitude to her before we cut back to her in the interview room, staring hard into the camera. One more cut back to the black and white vignette angle as she lifts her head and stares intensely back at the viewers.
Mikaela Callaway: My name is Mikaela Callaway. I’m from Virginia Beach, Virginia.
A recorded clip plays of an announcer calling her name as Mikaela steps through the curtain at an indy event in her ring gear and leather jacket. She throws up the horns with one hand and approaches the ring.
Mikaela Callaway: I’ve been a wrestling fan since I can remember. Guess you could say I was the little girl who played with wrestling figures when everyone else played with Barbie.
Mikaela blushes, laughing at herself in her seat. A short picture slide shows her at different points in her childhood, all wrestling related. As a toddler with a pair of figures in hand, as an adolescent in a wrestling shirt standing at a signing event with veteran wrestler Ashe Corvin.
Mikaela Callaway: I started training when I was 13.
Old footage shows a young, teenage Mikaela inside a practice ring, running the ropes, doing mat rolls, taking back bumps.
Mikaela Callaway: I’ve been working local shows in my hometown for about two years now.
Switching back to old clips of Mikaela at indy shows, we get a quick set of clips showcasing what she has to bring to the HYBRID ring: ducking a clothesline from an opponent and coming back with a Tornado DDT. With a different opponent, she slips under a punch, the opponent turns and she feeds them a stiff superkick that pops throughout the arena.
Crowd: OHHHH!!
Commentator 1: HOLY SHIT!
Commentator 2: Somebody check the mat for teeth!
Mikaela Callaway: How’d I feel when I got a phone call from HYBRID? I felt…ready. I was born for this. I’m ready for this.
We get another old match clip. MIkaela standing, stone faced as a taller, male opponent, clearly underestimating her looms over her, trash talking as he pats her on the head. Mikaela answers, promptly, with an explosive forearm to the jaw that staggers him back before running off the ropes and Basement Dropkicking his feet from out underneath him.
Mikaela Callaway: The fact that they reached out to me says they see how great I am at my age. I’m a lot of things. I’m a trash talker.
Cue another indy clip of MIkaela jawjacking back and forth with another opponent, motioning down towards his waist with raised eyebrows as she turns to the crowd and makes a quip about his “Small Package.” The opponent explodes into a furious tantrum.
Crowd: WHOOOOOOO!!!
Commentator 1: HAHA, ohhhhhhhh nooooo she didn’t!
Commentator 2: Hahahaha, oh yes she did!
Mikaela Callaway: ...I’m an asskicker…
More in-ring action shots of Mikaela dishing out the pain. Superkicks, running lariats, diving crossbodies; she hits her slingshot hurricanrana to an opponent onto the ringside floor. She drills another with her slingshot DDT. She dives off of the top turnbuckle, hitting her 450 Splash finisher.
Mikaela Callaway: ...I’ll be the first one to admit, I’m a straight up bitch.
In a ring, an opponent is down on one knee as Mikaela slings trash talk and slaps them repeatedly in the face and over the head.
Mikaela Callaway: One thing I’m not? One thing I will never be? Is a disappointment.
Another clip: boom! “Mikaela’s Way” is executed, drilling an opponent onto their head. We’re shown this move several more times with her hooking the leg afterwards. On the last one, the ref makes the three count.
Mikaela Callaway: HYBRID is back. It’s a new age of professional wrestling. I am the next generation.
Mikaela is seen celebrating in the ring, a little bit of an attitude to her before we cut back to her in the interview room, staring hard into the camera. One more cut back to the black and white vignette angle as she lifts her head and stares intensely back at the viewers.
After we hear from La Non Pardonné en masse, we’re taken down to the convention level of the State Farm Center. Far from the ring, seats and podium, here we have booths, refreshments and a lot of eager fans. As with above, though, we see the man in the trenchcoat again… though in a blink he’s gone again, disappearing between booths and into the crowd. So swiftly, in fact, that neither Grave Savoy nor Hikaru Yamamoto, two more of HYBRID’s interviewers, completely miss him!
Grace Savoy: A warm welcome to everyone! My name is Grace Savoy and I’m here in the convention level with another of HYBRID’s veterans who is returning to make her mark once again: the one and only Hikaru Yamamoto!
Hikaru Yamamoto: You’re too kind, Grace! And goodness, what a turnout, huh? This place is packed!
Grace Savoy: It most certainly is! And why wouldn’t it be? There’s people to meet, gear to acquire and plenty of food and drink!
It was almost hard to get around, but the young ladies with microphones did all right. They come upon some fans in line for shirts with the Vanguard logo and decide to pose some questions.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Hello there! Looking forward to the first show of HYBRID’s return?
Male Fan: Oh, hell yeah! I was a fan back in the day, too! Your show’s gonna be back, ain’t it?
Grace Savoy: A Hikaru’s Haven fan!
The young man nods enthusiastically, while Hikaru blushes just a bit.
Grace Savoy: I don’t think you have to worry, sir. I’m pretty sure that that’s in the cards! But who should she interview first?
Male Fan: Maybe that Clayton Kane guy? I thought I saw him lurkin’ around here, but then he was gone!
Hikaru Yamamoto: That sounds… creepy.
Grace Savoy: You’ve talked to more dangerous than that, Hikaru! I remember!
Both ladies chuckle at that one before they move toward another line, this time speaking to a pair of female fans.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Ladies! Who do you think will come out on top in the Global Heavyweight Tournament?!
Surprised just to be asked, the young women whisper between themselves for a few excited moments before turning back with smiles.
Female Fan #1: Gotta go with Sam Tolson there!
Female Fan #2: Maybe SHE does! My money’s on Tyler Matthews!
Grace Savoy: Good choices, both! One is a skilled veteran and the other is dangerous…
Hikaru Yamamoto: ...but you could say the same about either one!
Female Fans: Exactly!
The giggling spreads to all four, even the seemingly more well-controlled Grace! She and Hikaru step away from the lines and once more address the camera.
Grace Savoy: As you can see, the excitement is already building down here with the HYBRID Nation!
Hikaru Yamamoto: Now, though, it’s time to introduce a few more members of our illustrious roster: Eddy Todd and Noah Ortega!
Grace Savoy: The latter flanked by his associates, The Lost!
We open to show a close-up of a skull mask. The spandex section of the mask was black, silver, and pale lime green. A thumb and pinkie finger are sticking out of the skull’s eye sockets.
Eddy Todd: There are a lot of the people signed up to HYBRID that likes to talk about death and specifically the Grim Reaper. I sit back and chuckle every time I see or hear it. That’s the moniker I used to wrestle under while wearing this mask.
The voice of Eddy Todd, the self-proclaimed Beggar King pauses and chuckles. The camera zooms out showing him sitting on a folding chair in an empty locker room. His attention is down on the mask as if he is Hamlet speaking to Yorick.
Eddy Todd: When I first started and walked at the side of the future King of Darkness I wore this mask. I did everything you could hope for. I won all types of titles imaginable. I lost them all as well. For once you reach the top the only place to go is down. The only thing you can do is stay there for as long as possible.
Eddy lowers his hand letting the mask hand off of it. He looks up into the camera.
Eddy Todd: So, you may be sitting there asking, “Eddy, why are coming back now? You’ve said you’ve done it all. What’s the point?” Well, it’s simple. I did it all before under a mask. I had a buffer between myself and everyone else. Anyone could claim to be me. I didn’t have any of my tattoos then. I got a pretty average build. I wore blackout contact lenses, so there was nothing to make it obvious it was me. So now, well…
He paused for a moment and grinned.
Eddy Todd: Now, I am doing it leaving no doubt. When I am done for good I can have my actual name in the record books. Eddy Todd, Champion. Eddy Todd, founding member. No doubt. No writing it off. Most of you on this roster are young enough to be my kids. And yet I am coming here to show you that you aren’t as hot shit as you think you are. Watch as this old man, this Beggar King, shows you what wrestling is about. What being a legit wrestler, a threat in that ring is all about.
Eddy stands and lifts the mask up, holding it beside his face.
Eddy Todd: The man who overcame death is here. And the Beggar King has a kingdom to claim.
Eddy laughs as the scene fades.
Eddy Todd: There are a lot of the people signed up to HYBRID that likes to talk about death and specifically the Grim Reaper. I sit back and chuckle every time I see or hear it. That’s the moniker I used to wrestle under while wearing this mask.
The voice of Eddy Todd, the self-proclaimed Beggar King pauses and chuckles. The camera zooms out showing him sitting on a folding chair in an empty locker room. His attention is down on the mask as if he is Hamlet speaking to Yorick.
Eddy Todd: When I first started and walked at the side of the future King of Darkness I wore this mask. I did everything you could hope for. I won all types of titles imaginable. I lost them all as well. For once you reach the top the only place to go is down. The only thing you can do is stay there for as long as possible.
Eddy lowers his hand letting the mask hand off of it. He looks up into the camera.
Eddy Todd: So, you may be sitting there asking, “Eddy, why are coming back now? You’ve said you’ve done it all. What’s the point?” Well, it’s simple. I did it all before under a mask. I had a buffer between myself and everyone else. Anyone could claim to be me. I didn’t have any of my tattoos then. I got a pretty average build. I wore blackout contact lenses, so there was nothing to make it obvious it was me. So now, well…
He paused for a moment and grinned.
Eddy Todd: Now, I am doing it leaving no doubt. When I am done for good I can have my actual name in the record books. Eddy Todd, Champion. Eddy Todd, founding member. No doubt. No writing it off. Most of you on this roster are young enough to be my kids. And yet I am coming here to show you that you aren’t as hot shit as you think you are. Watch as this old man, this Beggar King, shows you what wrestling is about. What being a legit wrestler, a threat in that ring is all about.
Eddy stands and lifts the mask up, holding it beside his face.
Eddy Todd: The man who overcame death is here. And the Beggar King has a kingdom to claim.
Eddy laughs as the scene fades.
Ortega is surrounded by members of his group known as 'The Lost', some of whom are masked and hooded up lingering in the background, whilst Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello are both visible with their faces on display. Ortega has a grin on his face that stretches as he takes his place on the podium and arranges the microphone, looking calm and composed as he looks on at the reporters in the room.
Noah Ortega: You know I'm not as big as some of the names in this tournament, I know that... some of you are probably wondering, who the hell does this guy think he is?
He chuckles to himself, running his fingers through his hair as he does so.
Noah Ortega: To be honest with you, you wouldn't be the first...
Ortega looks on at some of his Lost members in the background, who nod their heads back at him.
Noah Ortega: People often look at me and they write me off, in an instance. I've had that happen to me my whole life, people have just always expected me to fail.
Some of the members of The Lost nod their heads and mumble in unison, as if they're in a church listening to a preacher.
Noah Ortega: For the longest of times I hated myself for it too, because in the eyes of others, I wasn't enough... and all those people, all those people who I thought cared for me and believed in me, they all disappeared and I was left alone... alone with my thoughts, alone to wander... wondering where do I go from here? Wondering who am I and who do I want to become. A long time ago I embraced who I was and from this day on, I wear it on my heart and my sleeve, like a badge of honour - as I step out onto the battlefield and do what I do best, and that is wrestle in that goddamn ring. I am, The Leader of the Lost Generation, The Captain of Freedom, and Liberator of HYBRID Wrestling - ready to lead this promotion as the first ever Global Heavyweight Champion!"
The members of The Lost rile up their leader, applauding and cheering him as he poses for a moment, a smirk planted on his face.
Noah Ortega: I embraced who I am and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I walk in the way of The Lost and in doing so I'm finding out my purpose in curing this industry of it's indecencies and carrying through a new age, a new era - one that's under reign of The Lost. For too long, we've been ignored. For too long, we've been trampled on, pushed aside, spat on, treated like shit and been expected to be okay with it... together, we've assured ourselves that no one will come in the way of our glory, no one will take that away from us. Together, we're trying to take Hybrid Wrestling to new heights, and by becoming Global Heavyweight Champion, I'll already be cementing my position as one of the top guys around here, because that's exactly what I am.
This tournament is packed out with some of your favourite stars who have been there and done it all. There's others who are relatively new to the business, but they've already made some head ground, garnered some traction and they'll be betting on themselves to do something in this tourney. And then you have me, Noah Ortega; a man, who, for the most part - enters the fray as an outsider wanting to make a name for himself. A man who knows who he is and isn't afraid to state the obvious, and that's the fact that I am the hidden jewel in this tournament - the underdog that nobody expects anything from... but soon-
Before he could finish his sentence, The Lost intervened in unison:
The Lost: But Soon, The World Will Know
Noah Ortega: That The Lost, is the way of the present and the future! Tyler Matthews will know the true meaning of violence when he steps across the ring from me. He'll know that I'm not here to play around, I'm here for the crown. Tyler Matthews may be bigger and stronger than me, but that's all there is to it... he's nothing more than a backyard wrestler primed for the indies whilst I, I'm ready for the stars, prepared to do what's necessary to elevate this promotion. Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello, both men are gunning for the Global Tag Team Championships, and I know that they'll do everything in their power to get what's theirs... it's a long road we're walking, but we're ready for it... who else is?
Noah Ortega: You know I'm not as big as some of the names in this tournament, I know that... some of you are probably wondering, who the hell does this guy think he is?
He chuckles to himself, running his fingers through his hair as he does so.
Noah Ortega: To be honest with you, you wouldn't be the first...
Ortega looks on at some of his Lost members in the background, who nod their heads back at him.
Noah Ortega: People often look at me and they write me off, in an instance. I've had that happen to me my whole life, people have just always expected me to fail.
Some of the members of The Lost nod their heads and mumble in unison, as if they're in a church listening to a preacher.
Noah Ortega: For the longest of times I hated myself for it too, because in the eyes of others, I wasn't enough... and all those people, all those people who I thought cared for me and believed in me, they all disappeared and I was left alone... alone with my thoughts, alone to wander... wondering where do I go from here? Wondering who am I and who do I want to become. A long time ago I embraced who I was and from this day on, I wear it on my heart and my sleeve, like a badge of honour - as I step out onto the battlefield and do what I do best, and that is wrestle in that goddamn ring. I am, The Leader of the Lost Generation, The Captain of Freedom, and Liberator of HYBRID Wrestling - ready to lead this promotion as the first ever Global Heavyweight Champion!"
The members of The Lost rile up their leader, applauding and cheering him as he poses for a moment, a smirk planted on his face.
Noah Ortega: I embraced who I am and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I walk in the way of The Lost and in doing so I'm finding out my purpose in curing this industry of it's indecencies and carrying through a new age, a new era - one that's under reign of The Lost. For too long, we've been ignored. For too long, we've been trampled on, pushed aside, spat on, treated like shit and been expected to be okay with it... together, we've assured ourselves that no one will come in the way of our glory, no one will take that away from us. Together, we're trying to take Hybrid Wrestling to new heights, and by becoming Global Heavyweight Champion, I'll already be cementing my position as one of the top guys around here, because that's exactly what I am.
This tournament is packed out with some of your favourite stars who have been there and done it all. There's others who are relatively new to the business, but they've already made some head ground, garnered some traction and they'll be betting on themselves to do something in this tourney. And then you have me, Noah Ortega; a man, who, for the most part - enters the fray as an outsider wanting to make a name for himself. A man who knows who he is and isn't afraid to state the obvious, and that's the fact that I am the hidden jewel in this tournament - the underdog that nobody expects anything from... but soon-
Before he could finish his sentence, The Lost intervened in unison:
The Lost: But Soon, The World Will Know
Noah Ortega: That The Lost, is the way of the present and the future! Tyler Matthews will know the true meaning of violence when he steps across the ring from me. He'll know that I'm not here to play around, I'm here for the crown. Tyler Matthews may be bigger and stronger than me, but that's all there is to it... he's nothing more than a backyard wrestler primed for the indies whilst I, I'm ready for the stars, prepared to do what's necessary to elevate this promotion. Anton Palmer and Gio Moriello, both men are gunning for the Global Tag Team Championships, and I know that they'll do everything in their power to get what's theirs... it's a long road we're walking, but we're ready for it... who else is?
The show returns to the arena level where there’s a bit of a buzz in the air. Standing to the left side of the stage, Bernadette Olson and Jacob Frankel are ready to welcome the fans back. One other difference is that, in the ring, there are three well-dressed folks carrying themselves with a somewhat-serious air. There is excitement about them, to be sure, but it looks as though they’re keeping it controlled for the moment.
Bernadette Olson: Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen. As you can see, three members of HYBRID’s Board of Directors are already in the ring: Laytoya Crask, Jayson Perez and Elizabeth Grey.
Jacob Frankel: The Chief Officers of Finances, Operations and Media, respectively. Hand-picked by the CEO for their talent and experience.
Bernadette Olson: Mr. Vance took his time gathering this crew… and I’m getting word that his right-hand man, and our Chief Security Officer, is on his way out…
She’s right on the money: “Hardwired” by Metallica starts up and an imposing man with a trimmed beard and mustache, dressed in a black silk shirt over jeans and boots, comes out onto the stage. He immediately gives off the aura of someone who isn’t to be trifled with, much less approached at random. Some of the fans on this level know him and cheer his presence, but his stoic expression doesn’t change one iota. He marches down to the ring and enters between the ropes, only pausing to shake hands with the rest of the board before taking up a spot between Elizabeth and the podium in the center.
Jacob Frankel: That would be him… Trenton Mitchell, better known as Forge to his friends and the Martyr Machine to his opponents and enemies.
Bernadette Olson: If Mr. Vance was looking for the perfect form to dissuade trouble, he found it. How he’ll handle the business-type stuff I can only guess.
Jacob Frankel: I doubt Mr. Vance would have put him in that position without serious thought. I hear they go way back.
“Hardwired” fades out, soon to be replaced by the classic “Sharp Dressed Man” by ZZ Top, heralding the arrival of the CEO himself, HYBRID’s new owner, Aloysius Marcus Vance! There’s respect applause for the new owner and fourth-generation lawyer as he makes his way to the ring, shaking hands, pausing for selfies, and basically working the crowd like a career politician.
Bernadette Olson: He seems to have little problem getting on the peoples’ good side, eh?
Jacob Frankel: You don’t sound impressed, Bernadette! That man is the Defender of Justice and the Purveyor of Truth, in the flesh!
Bernadette Olson: I suppose so, though those nicknames don’t mean so much anymore. Now his most important name is ‘boss’.
Entering the ring, AMV, like his second, shakes hands with everyone save Trenton, to whom he whispers something before taking the podium as “Sharp Dressed Man” fades out.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Well, look at THIS turn-out! I expected some attention, but this is above and beyond the call. You people are amazing! Why, Denzel Porter even accepted our invitation! Pleasure seeing you in the house, my friend! Your time won’t be wasted!
Cameras cut to Denzel for a moment, who flashes a grin and acknowledges the comment before AMV is back on business, and on camera.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: It has been an informative night so far. Folks have gotten to see some of the folks who will be coming into their televisions, phones and computers in two weeks, such as Noah Ortega, Eddy Todd, Stephanie Kenyon and more… and there’s plenty more to come. But first, before opening the floor to questions, I want to formally introduce my board, starting with Miss Elizabeth Grey, our Chief Media Officer!
Elizabeth rises and nods as AMV lays out some details.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: This talented young woman will be in charge of our advertising, social media accounts and working with television stations and subscription services to make sure HYBRID is bringing the rEvolution to as many screens as possible! She has a dedicated crew behind her as well, determined to get the word out and keep it at the forefront of everyone’s minds. And, next up, Jayson Perez, our Cheif Operations Officer!
The Latin gentleman directly to AMV’s left rises, nodding to those present. Camera flashes are going off and many a portal device is being held up to record the information given.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Production staff, agents and in essence all the folks that put our shows on the air answer to this man, who has over a decade of experience in bringing some of your favorite shows to national television and the Internet! He will no doubt be the backbone of Vanguard, Battle Damage and all our pay-per-view events in the future. But I know you’re up to the pressure, aren’t ya, Jayson?!
The man in question grins and nods, making it clear that he is VERY much prepared. AMV applauds this and even Trenton cracks something resembling a very small smile. The dark-skinned lady next to Jayson stands now as AMV begins to address the journalists and fans about her.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: And THIS… is Latoya Crask, our Chief Financial Officer. So if you have trouble with your paycheck, take it to her, not me!
There’s some mirth among the press corps. Latoya rolls her eyes and we can see her mouth “gee, thanks” toward AMV, who laughs at his own joke.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Jokes aside, Mrs. Crask will assure that both we, and the fans, get the most for their money. Running a wrestling company is no cheap endeavor; even the smallest companies have to keep a very tight grip on their finances, but given her degrees and experience, I wouldn’t put anyone but Latoya in charge of our purse strings, myself included.
Nodding affirmatively, Latoya smiles again before taking her seat. Now AMV turns towards the big man to his right and takes a deep breath.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: And I think some of you already know this gentleman…
Trenton maintains his seat for the moment, which seems to make this more challenging for AMV.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: ...mostly for his time in the ring. However, now he is both our Chief Security Officer and my second-in-command: the Martyr Machine, Trenton “Forge” Mitchell.
He rises now, does Forge, nodding to those watching. AMV offers him the microphone but Forge shakes his head and retakes his seat. A man of few words, this one.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Getting right to the point? We know the kind of chaos that wrestling invites, the kind of shenanigans that people get up to because they feel that anything goes in this business. And to an extent, it does. But there ARE limits. Trenton, here, will see that those limits are enforced. One way, or another. His actions are 100% backed up by myself and if he says it will happen, it’s the same as my saying so.
No small amount of foreboding there. AMV lets that hang in the air for a moment before speaking again, back to his charming smile.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Now! With that said, let’s open the floor to some questions!
However, at that point, the cameras return to Bernadette and Jacob on the stage.
Jacob Frankel: I’d say HYBRID is in good hands…
Bernadette Olson: Highly doubt anyone’s gonna buck AMV’s authority withs someone like Forge standing next to him. Which I suppose is the point.
Jacob Frankel: I dunno about that. Some people can be pretty thick.
Bernadette Olson: Oh, I could tell you some stories there…
She’s referring, no doubt, to her previous tenure in HYBRID.
Bernadette Olson: ...but we’re going to take a break and, after that, we’ll have some words from Katie Anderson and the tag teams Podunky Dunk Nation and 2 Broke Chicks!
After being introduced, Katie Anderson steps onto the stage, she is greeted with a loud ovation from her hometown crowd, she smiles as she takes a microphone.
Katie Anderson: Hello, Atlanta! It's so good to be here!
She waves and smiles as people in the crowd take pictures.
Katie Anderson: It's been awhile since I've had a match in my hometown, and I am really looking forward to it. It's been a long road for me to get back here. When I saw that HYBRID was restarting in here, I couldn't pass up the opportunity.
The crowd cheers.
Katie Anderson: I'm using this opportunity to jumpstart my career, the past is the past. And HYBRID is the future! I feel blessed that my first match in this company will be a title opportunity.
Some in the crowd begin chanting:
Katie smiles brightly.
Katie Anderson: I will not let you down! I will make my hometown proud! This is the start of great things in HYBRID, not just for me, but for all of you! With this roster, this management, HYBRID is going to newer and greater heights than before. Get ready Atlanta, HYBRID and "The Beautiful One" are here!
The crowd pops, Katie smiles and sets the Microphone on the table, she smiles and waves to the crowd. She shakes a few hands of people standing in front of the stage. After a few pictures and another wave to the crowd she steps backstage.
Katie Anderson: Hello, Atlanta! It's so good to be here!
She waves and smiles as people in the crowd take pictures.
Katie Anderson: It's been awhile since I've had a match in my hometown, and I am really looking forward to it. It's been a long road for me to get back here. When I saw that HYBRID was restarting in here, I couldn't pass up the opportunity.
The crowd cheers.
Katie Anderson: I'm using this opportunity to jumpstart my career, the past is the past. And HYBRID is the future! I feel blessed that my first match in this company will be a title opportunity.
Some in the crowd begin chanting:
"Katie! Katie! Katie!
Katie smiles brightly.
Katie Anderson: I will not let you down! I will make my hometown proud! This is the start of great things in HYBRID, not just for me, but for all of you! With this roster, this management, HYBRID is going to newer and greater heights than before. Get ready Atlanta, HYBRID and "The Beautiful One" are here!
The crowd pops, Katie smiles and sets the Microphone on the table, she smiles and waves to the crowd. She shakes a few hands of people standing in front of the stage. After a few pictures and another wave to the crowd she steps backstage.
A section of the event floor is shown where fans are able to get autographs from various members of the rEvolution roster. There is a specific table shown where Loree Merope is standing behind and her two clients, Runa Mouse and Ibbie, are seated in front of her. She smiles warmly as fans approach the table to get various items autographed. There is a sign written in colored pencil displayed on the table that reads, "Autographs are no charge," which is signed by Ibbie. There are just as many fans lined up for Ibbie as there are for the returning Runa Mouse. An excited young female fan approaches nervously toward the table crinkling up her photos unknowingly in her nervousness.
Ibbie: Hi, I'm Ibbie!
Ibbie reaches her hand out to greet the girl and she puts all of her photos onto the table to reach out answering the handshake invitation. The fan's hand is visibly shaking in Ibbie's during the brief handshake.
Female Fan: I-I'm C-Carmen.
Ibbie: You are you and you are our fan, Carmen, and wow you are very nervous! Are you alright?
Carmen: I-I-I...
Runa looks over to the fan greeted by Ibbie and smiles.
Runa Mouse: Oh my gosh, Ibbie, when someone is nervous don't call attention to that fact.
She stands up and reaches out to the girl and puts a hand on her shoulder.
Runa Mouse: We love all of our fans and there's no need to be nervous. It's not every day one meets people seen on television and, in some cases even look up to, in our lives. Just try your best to relax right now. We are all people like you and some of us were even in your position before. Take some time, take a deep breath, and enjoy this moment so that later, when reflecting back on this moment, you aren't thinking you blew it with us feeling you could have done this better.
Runa sits down and smiles at the girl who takes the deep breaths as instructed. Ibbie, who had been looking at the two the whole time during the interaction, smiles at the girl too. It is at this point that Ibbie takes notice of the photos their fan had brought for signing.
Ibbie: Oh dear, these photographs you brought of us are amazing, but you've wadded them up so they won't keep very well.
Runa reaches behind her as Loree hands off some more photographs to her that feature Ibbie and Runa separately and one of them together. The Mousy One then holds up the photos in her hands where all three can be mostly seen by the girl on the other side of the table.
Runa Mouse: What do you think of these photos? I know they're not the ones you brought, but these are not bunched up and--
Ibbie interrupts Runa.
Ibbie: You know what? We'll sign these for you AND the ones you brought too!
Runa smiles at Ibbie and then back to their young fan.
Runa Mouse: I was going to suggest that same exact thing, Ibbz.
Ibbie smiles back at Runa and nods as they each take their own photos and sign them and then go after the together photo signing them... well... together! From their, they stay true to their word and sign the pictures their young fan had brought with her.
Carmen: I-I would like it if you both could get a picture with me?
The duo smiles at the girl and, instead of inviting her to their side of the table, they both get up and walk over to her.
Ibbie: Could you give your phone to Miss Loree to take the picture, please?
The girl nods and does as instructed and Ibbie stands on one side of her while Runa comes up on the other side handing her a blue t-shirt that displays Podunky Dunk Nation in bold white lettering with the tag team displayed under the lettering. Ibbie and Runa put their arms around their fan who holds the shirt up to be displayed along with them in the picture. As Loree gets the picture set up and asks for everyone to smile, Ibbie speaks over to the girl softly.
Ibbie: You know, this t-shirt has Runa displayed in actual size!
Runa looks over at Ibbie having heard what she just said.
Runa Mouse: Hey... I rese-- I resemble that statement!
The small interaction between the two team members is enough to make their picture with a smiling fan become a picture of them all laughing together. Loree is smiling as she returns the phone back to the fan who nods approval and receives hugs from both Ibbie and Runa. She tries to go for some money to pay for the autographs and shirt, but Ibbie points to the sign.
Runa Mouse: That's right, the autographs are free and even the t-shirts today. We appreciate all of our fans, especially you, so everything we give out today will be on our dime.
Ibbie nods to their fan who is smiling hugely.
Ibbie: Yes, and remember we both love and appreciate you, you're special, you're amazing, you're who we wrestle for, you're our fan, and... You're also still Carmen!
The fans in line by the table cheer having heard Ibbie say the thing. Even Runa smiles in response before addressing their fan herself.
Runa Mouse: We appreciate you coming to see us today and also it was nice to see you overcome your nervousness. That's what Mighty Mousy Mode is all about. You kick into another gear to overcome obstacles in life just like I do in the ring. We could all use a little bit of that from time to time. Take care, Carmen, we look forward to seeing you at future signings!
With those words, their fan, Carmen, excitedly leaves with her new shirt, new and brought photos (which she didn't bunch up anymore), and walks back off into the crowd no longer nervous. The team returns to their chairs behind the table as Ibbie looks to Runa.
Ibbie: You know, I was pretty nervous in my first professional match. It was against Stacy Jones for the NFW Intercontinental title.
Runa's eyes light up as she grins at Ibbie.
Runa Mouse: Ibbie, I know, I was watching from home. You did the best you could in that one because Stacy is a very talented competitor and definitely earned herself a spot in HYBRID Wrestling's history. I even had a chance to interact with and fight beside her. I can only hope, as we all have, that she is able to return to action.
Ibbie nods.
Ibbie: I'm having issues stumbling in big matches, Runa Mousy Mouse. I can win the smaller ones, but that seems to be the pattern with the bigger ones and so I've adopted the name Small Match Ibbie.
Runa Mouse: Not to worry, Ibbz. Podunky Dunk Nation Ibbie will be different from Small Match Ibbie. You could use a little Mighty Mousy Mode yourself. Training together is going to pay off in the long run, you'll see just like Stacy sees. I saw she chimed in on social media and gave you the proverbial kick in the butt when you were down about your recent NFW loss. There's a learning curve to getting better in professional matches. Something more difficult to accomplish than in the independents. Together we'll achieve much and that will also help and encourage you to achieve more on your own. Keep your eyes on the prize is what I always say to myself.
Ibbie smiles at her tag partner thanking her for those words then the two turn their attention back to the fans.
Ibbie: Hi, I'm Ibbie!
Ibbie reaches her hand out to greet the girl and she puts all of her photos onto the table to reach out answering the handshake invitation. The fan's hand is visibly shaking in Ibbie's during the brief handshake.
Female Fan: I-I'm C-Carmen.
Ibbie: You are you and you are our fan, Carmen, and wow you are very nervous! Are you alright?
Carmen: I-I-I...
Runa looks over to the fan greeted by Ibbie and smiles.
Runa Mouse: Oh my gosh, Ibbie, when someone is nervous don't call attention to that fact.
She stands up and reaches out to the girl and puts a hand on her shoulder.
Runa Mouse: We love all of our fans and there's no need to be nervous. It's not every day one meets people seen on television and, in some cases even look up to, in our lives. Just try your best to relax right now. We are all people like you and some of us were even in your position before. Take some time, take a deep breath, and enjoy this moment so that later, when reflecting back on this moment, you aren't thinking you blew it with us feeling you could have done this better.
Runa sits down and smiles at the girl who takes the deep breaths as instructed. Ibbie, who had been looking at the two the whole time during the interaction, smiles at the girl too. It is at this point that Ibbie takes notice of the photos their fan had brought for signing.
Ibbie: Oh dear, these photographs you brought of us are amazing, but you've wadded them up so they won't keep very well.
Runa reaches behind her as Loree hands off some more photographs to her that feature Ibbie and Runa separately and one of them together. The Mousy One then holds up the photos in her hands where all three can be mostly seen by the girl on the other side of the table.
Runa Mouse: What do you think of these photos? I know they're not the ones you brought, but these are not bunched up and--
Ibbie interrupts Runa.
Ibbie: You know what? We'll sign these for you AND the ones you brought too!
Runa smiles at Ibbie and then back to their young fan.
Runa Mouse: I was going to suggest that same exact thing, Ibbz.
Ibbie smiles back at Runa and nods as they each take their own photos and sign them and then go after the together photo signing them... well... together! From their, they stay true to their word and sign the pictures their young fan had brought with her.
Carmen: I-I would like it if you both could get a picture with me?
The duo smiles at the girl and, instead of inviting her to their side of the table, they both get up and walk over to her.
Ibbie: Could you give your phone to Miss Loree to take the picture, please?
The girl nods and does as instructed and Ibbie stands on one side of her while Runa comes up on the other side handing her a blue t-shirt that displays Podunky Dunk Nation in bold white lettering with the tag team displayed under the lettering. Ibbie and Runa put their arms around their fan who holds the shirt up to be displayed along with them in the picture. As Loree gets the picture set up and asks for everyone to smile, Ibbie speaks over to the girl softly.
Ibbie: You know, this t-shirt has Runa displayed in actual size!
Runa looks over at Ibbie having heard what she just said.
Runa Mouse: Hey... I rese-- I resemble that statement!
The small interaction between the two team members is enough to make their picture with a smiling fan become a picture of them all laughing together. Loree is smiling as she returns the phone back to the fan who nods approval and receives hugs from both Ibbie and Runa. She tries to go for some money to pay for the autographs and shirt, but Ibbie points to the sign.
Runa Mouse: That's right, the autographs are free and even the t-shirts today. We appreciate all of our fans, especially you, so everything we give out today will be on our dime.
Ibbie nods to their fan who is smiling hugely.
Ibbie: Yes, and remember we both love and appreciate you, you're special, you're amazing, you're who we wrestle for, you're our fan, and... You're also still Carmen!
The fans in line by the table cheer having heard Ibbie say the thing. Even Runa smiles in response before addressing their fan herself.
Runa Mouse: We appreciate you coming to see us today and also it was nice to see you overcome your nervousness. That's what Mighty Mousy Mode is all about. You kick into another gear to overcome obstacles in life just like I do in the ring. We could all use a little bit of that from time to time. Take care, Carmen, we look forward to seeing you at future signings!
With those words, their fan, Carmen, excitedly leaves with her new shirt, new and brought photos (which she didn't bunch up anymore), and walks back off into the crowd no longer nervous. The team returns to their chairs behind the table as Ibbie looks to Runa.
Ibbie: You know, I was pretty nervous in my first professional match. It was against Stacy Jones for the NFW Intercontinental title.
Runa's eyes light up as she grins at Ibbie.
Runa Mouse: Ibbie, I know, I was watching from home. You did the best you could in that one because Stacy is a very talented competitor and definitely earned herself a spot in HYBRID Wrestling's history. I even had a chance to interact with and fight beside her. I can only hope, as we all have, that she is able to return to action.
Ibbie nods.
Ibbie: I'm having issues stumbling in big matches, Runa Mousy Mouse. I can win the smaller ones, but that seems to be the pattern with the bigger ones and so I've adopted the name Small Match Ibbie.
Runa Mouse: Not to worry, Ibbz. Podunky Dunk Nation Ibbie will be different from Small Match Ibbie. You could use a little Mighty Mousy Mode yourself. Training together is going to pay off in the long run, you'll see just like Stacy sees. I saw she chimed in on social media and gave you the proverbial kick in the butt when you were down about your recent NFW loss. There's a learning curve to getting better in professional matches. Something more difficult to accomplish than in the independents. Together we'll achieve much and that will also help and encourage you to achieve more on your own. Keep your eyes on the prize is what I always say to myself.
Ibbie smiles at her tag partner thanking her for those words then the two turn their attention back to the fans.
We open up on a black screen and the sound of a spray paint can being shaken before we see the words “2 Broke Chicks” painted on the screen and it starts to fade out into the parking lot of the arena where we see a massive crowd of people all gathered around a food truck. We hear the crowd all making a commotion before we hear a voice ring out over the crowd.
Jane Harper: Come on everyone, get your very own tacos made courtesy of The 2 Broke Chicks! You love them, you adore them, they love you too. For one day only, get the greatest tacos you’ve ever tasted for the low, low price of twenty-five dollars! Where else are you going to get tacos made by the first Hybrid Global Tag Team Champions?!
A gentleman walks up to Jane with two kids by his side.
Man: Twenty-five bucks for tacos?! Are you insane?
Jane Harper: You’re paying for the experience of us, sir! You’re paying for Chef Chiaki’s masterful skills in the kitchen…
As Jane says that, the sound of utensils dropping to the floor is heard. Seconds later, a familiar voice is heard shrieking in Japanese.
Chiaki Sanada: Kuso! Tawagoto! Kami wa sore o kuso ̄ !
(Fuck! Shit! God fucking damn it!)
Behind Jane, inside the truck, a blue haired girl goes zipping by. We hear a door to a cabinet open, slam shut, and the same girl goes running by with a huge 10lb sack on her shoulder. As she runs, tortillas are falling out onto the floor. A brief moment later….
Chiaki Sanada: FAKK!!!!
She comes back into frame and disappears, ducking down behind Jane as she gathers up the spilled tortillas off the floor and goes running back to the grill. We’ve lost sight of Chiaki but off in her direction, we hear a WHOOSH and the orange glow of flame illuminates the side of Jane.
Woman: Uhh…is that a fire in there?
Jane looks back, poking her head into the truck for a moment before turning back out to the crowd.
Jane Harper: That’s just Chef Chiaki’s technique for grilling the shrimp, she likes to blacken them!
Chiaki Sanada: N’AWLINS STYLE!!!!!
Man: I’ll take one order of shrimp tacos.
Jane Harper: Cheech, one order of shrimp tacos, ASAP!
Chiaki Sanada: Yosh! Order up!
Jane looks and just barely ducks before a spatula goes flying over her head and smacks into something inside the truck. That same blue blur goes running by again…then again… We hear more clanging and clattering before the other half of 2BC finally shows face to the camera. Chiaki’s wearing a grease stained white apron over her usual black baggy, low rise jeans and tank top. Her bandana, usually worn like a headband is tied backwards with the knot in the front of her head. She’s sweating profusely and her face, as well as the apron has black soot streaks all over it. What in god’s name is she doing back there?! She slaps down a paper tray with two untoasted tortillas. Inside each looks to be a pile of charred, blackened shrimp and an absolute mess of cheese and salsa.
Chiaki Sanada: Fitty dolla!
Man: Fifty?! She said twenty five!
Chiaki Sanada: One taco, twenty five! One order, two taco! Fitty dolla!
Frustrated, the man shakes his head and goes for his card.
Chiaki Sanada: Cash only!
Man: What?!
Chiaki makes the money sign with her fingers and waits. The man grumbles and pays up. He looks at his order and grimaces.
Man: Uhh…thanks.
Chiaki Sanada: Hai! Sank yoo desu!
She stuffs the wad of wash down the front of Jane’s tank top and zips back off screen inside the truck. Jane turns back around to the crowd as a woman who looks to be in her mid forties with a short haircut comes up to the truck, her arms crossed across her chest.
Jane Harper: Whadya havin, lady?
Woman: Lady? You have no customer service! Besides, I doubt you have anything vegan and organic on this nasty truck anyway.
Jane Harper: Vegan? What do we look like, treehuggers? We only serve the finest meat products on this truck, now if you don’t want anything, move along. We have a line of people to serve!
Woman: Where is the operator of this truck?! I demand to speak to him!
Jane shakes her head and just looks back in the truck.
Jane Harper: Cheech, we got a Karen and she’s vegan! Do you have tofu back there?!
Everything goes silent for a moment. Even the kitchen clatter stops before Chiaki comes walking back into the window with an incredulous look on her face at Jane. She turns towards the woman.
Chiaki Sanada: Tofu?!
Woman: Yes, ma’am! Tofu! Do you know what that is?
Chiaki Sanada: CHI CHI KNOW TOFU!! No tofu here! You want vegan?!
She disappears back towards the grill again and is gone for another moment before she appears again. She’s holding another tray with two tortillas filled to the brim with vegetables, salsa and peppers. She sets the tray down for the woman but quickly slides it back and sticks up a finger.
Chiaki Sanada: Ne! One sec! Chi Chi hook up!
She vanishes again and comes back with two long, shriveled up dark colored peppers. Chiaki promptly stuffs them down into the tacos.
Woman: What are those?
Chiaki Sanada: Special pepper! Give sweet kick! You like!
Anybody watching who knows their foods knows damn well those are ghost peppers she just shoved into the tacos. This lady doesn’t have any idea, though and pays up her $50, albeit reluctantly and takes her order. Chiaki watches her go as she leans into Jane with a cheshire grin crossing her devilish features. The next customer walks up. An obvious gym bro with a mohawk and tribal tattoos with a muscle shirt that looks about three sizes too small for him.
Gym Bro: Yo, you babes got corn tortillas? Trying to watch my carbs.
The dude pops his pecks. Chiaki just stares at him like she’s watching something crawl out of a UFO. Jane doesn’t seem to even be paying him any mind as he does this and she just looks right at him.
Jane Harper: The fuck you think this, Chipotle or something? We ain’t fancy enough to have corn tortillas. We only got flour, but I know you like your protein.
Gym Bro: Dang right I do, hottie. Need that protein for my gains.
Jane just rolls her eyes and looks at the dude.
Jane Harper: A Benjamin for an order of our extra special protein chicken. It’s made with protein powder that we totally didn’t steal from your car.
The guy looks confused for a minute as he looks at Jane.
Gym Bro: Yeah, give me four! Need all that protein right before my workout.
Jane Harper: Four vanilla chicken tacos, Cheech!
Chiaki nods, snaps Jane’s thong strap and runs off towards the grill before Jane can swat her. We start to hear more clanging and clattering. We hear another container open aaaaand…
Chiaki Sanada: Heeeere chicky chicky–AGHH, MMPH!!!!
Jane Harper: That’ll be Two hundred bucks, my dude.
Gym Bro: But you said a hundred!
Jane: Per order. Are you sure the steroids haven’t fucked with your brain as well as your nuts?
Gym Bro: Hey, I’m smart, but this seems like a ripoff to me!
Jane Harper: These are extra special tacos packed with protein, it’s totally worth the price.
Gym Bro: Yeah, I guess you’re right.
Meanwhile, just as this is said, Chiaki goes running by behind Jane with an octopus having attached itself, facehugger style, to her head. She disappears past the window and we hear her slam into something, knocking a bunch of shit over.
Gym Bro: What the hell was that?
Jane Harper: It’s just Chef’s process. She’s getting herself ready to make those tacos for you. One second.
Jane now disappears into the truck as people in the crowd, clearly knowing what’s going on are laughing to themselves while others wait, impatient with their arms crossed.
Jane Harper: Get off my girl, you whore!
We hear a loud grunt from Jane and then a loud clattering inside before the octopus goes flying out the window, just missing the gym bro by inches as he jumps back.
Jane Harper: The octopus is on the house, my dude.
Suddenly, a voice offscreen, outside the vehicle is heard shouting. The camera swings over and a man wearing a shirt with a logo matching the mobile establishment is running over from the convenience store it’s parked at.
Driver: Hey! What the hell are you two doing in my truck?!
Chiaki reappears, leaning out the window with slime dripping off her face. Her eyes nearly bug out of her head.
Chiaki Sanada: FAKK!! JANE-CHAN!! BUG OUT!!
Chi Chi climbs up into the window and jumps, landing in a monkey crouch on Gym Bro’s shoulders before tucking and rolling across the pavement. She comes face to face with the octopus and scampers back with a yelp.
Driver: Why the hell is Larry out of his aquarium?!
Chi Chi jumps to her feet as Jane launches herself off the steps, out of the door and the two take off, hauling ass away from the scene. The screen goes black and the spray can sprays “2BC’ across the screen again before a caption appears across the screen:
Jane Harper: Come on everyone, get your very own tacos made courtesy of The 2 Broke Chicks! You love them, you adore them, they love you too. For one day only, get the greatest tacos you’ve ever tasted for the low, low price of twenty-five dollars! Where else are you going to get tacos made by the first Hybrid Global Tag Team Champions?!
A gentleman walks up to Jane with two kids by his side.
Man: Twenty-five bucks for tacos?! Are you insane?
Jane Harper: You’re paying for the experience of us, sir! You’re paying for Chef Chiaki’s masterful skills in the kitchen…
As Jane says that, the sound of utensils dropping to the floor is heard. Seconds later, a familiar voice is heard shrieking in Japanese.
Chiaki Sanada: Kuso! Tawagoto! Kami wa sore o kuso ̄ !
(Fuck! Shit! God fucking damn it!)
Behind Jane, inside the truck, a blue haired girl goes zipping by. We hear a door to a cabinet open, slam shut, and the same girl goes running by with a huge 10lb sack on her shoulder. As she runs, tortillas are falling out onto the floor. A brief moment later….
Chiaki Sanada: FAKK!!!!
She comes back into frame and disappears, ducking down behind Jane as she gathers up the spilled tortillas off the floor and goes running back to the grill. We’ve lost sight of Chiaki but off in her direction, we hear a WHOOSH and the orange glow of flame illuminates the side of Jane.
Woman: Uhh…is that a fire in there?
Jane looks back, poking her head into the truck for a moment before turning back out to the crowd.
Jane Harper: That’s just Chef Chiaki’s technique for grilling the shrimp, she likes to blacken them!
Chiaki Sanada: N’AWLINS STYLE!!!!!
Man: I’ll take one order of shrimp tacos.
Jane Harper: Cheech, one order of shrimp tacos, ASAP!
Chiaki Sanada: Yosh! Order up!
Jane looks and just barely ducks before a spatula goes flying over her head and smacks into something inside the truck. That same blue blur goes running by again…then again… We hear more clanging and clattering before the other half of 2BC finally shows face to the camera. Chiaki’s wearing a grease stained white apron over her usual black baggy, low rise jeans and tank top. Her bandana, usually worn like a headband is tied backwards with the knot in the front of her head. She’s sweating profusely and her face, as well as the apron has black soot streaks all over it. What in god’s name is she doing back there?! She slaps down a paper tray with two untoasted tortillas. Inside each looks to be a pile of charred, blackened shrimp and an absolute mess of cheese and salsa.
Chiaki Sanada: Fitty dolla!
Man: Fifty?! She said twenty five!
Chiaki Sanada: One taco, twenty five! One order, two taco! Fitty dolla!
Frustrated, the man shakes his head and goes for his card.
Chiaki Sanada: Cash only!
Man: What?!
Chiaki makes the money sign with her fingers and waits. The man grumbles and pays up. He looks at his order and grimaces.
Man: Uhh…thanks.
Chiaki Sanada: Hai! Sank yoo desu!
She stuffs the wad of wash down the front of Jane’s tank top and zips back off screen inside the truck. Jane turns back around to the crowd as a woman who looks to be in her mid forties with a short haircut comes up to the truck, her arms crossed across her chest.
Jane Harper: Whadya havin, lady?
Woman: Lady? You have no customer service! Besides, I doubt you have anything vegan and organic on this nasty truck anyway.
Jane Harper: Vegan? What do we look like, treehuggers? We only serve the finest meat products on this truck, now if you don’t want anything, move along. We have a line of people to serve!
Woman: Where is the operator of this truck?! I demand to speak to him!
Jane shakes her head and just looks back in the truck.
Jane Harper: Cheech, we got a Karen and she’s vegan! Do you have tofu back there?!
Everything goes silent for a moment. Even the kitchen clatter stops before Chiaki comes walking back into the window with an incredulous look on her face at Jane. She turns towards the woman.
Chiaki Sanada: Tofu?!
Woman: Yes, ma’am! Tofu! Do you know what that is?
Chiaki Sanada: CHI CHI KNOW TOFU!! No tofu here! You want vegan?!
She disappears back towards the grill again and is gone for another moment before she appears again. She’s holding another tray with two tortillas filled to the brim with vegetables, salsa and peppers. She sets the tray down for the woman but quickly slides it back and sticks up a finger.
Chiaki Sanada: Ne! One sec! Chi Chi hook up!
She vanishes again and comes back with two long, shriveled up dark colored peppers. Chiaki promptly stuffs them down into the tacos.
Woman: What are those?
Chiaki Sanada: Special pepper! Give sweet kick! You like!
Anybody watching who knows their foods knows damn well those are ghost peppers she just shoved into the tacos. This lady doesn’t have any idea, though and pays up her $50, albeit reluctantly and takes her order. Chiaki watches her go as she leans into Jane with a cheshire grin crossing her devilish features. The next customer walks up. An obvious gym bro with a mohawk and tribal tattoos with a muscle shirt that looks about three sizes too small for him.
Gym Bro: Yo, you babes got corn tortillas? Trying to watch my carbs.
The dude pops his pecks. Chiaki just stares at him like she’s watching something crawl out of a UFO. Jane doesn’t seem to even be paying him any mind as he does this and she just looks right at him.
Jane Harper: The fuck you think this, Chipotle or something? We ain’t fancy enough to have corn tortillas. We only got flour, but I know you like your protein.
Gym Bro: Dang right I do, hottie. Need that protein for my gains.
Jane just rolls her eyes and looks at the dude.
Jane Harper: A Benjamin for an order of our extra special protein chicken. It’s made with protein powder that we totally didn’t steal from your car.
The guy looks confused for a minute as he looks at Jane.
Gym Bro: Yeah, give me four! Need all that protein right before my workout.
Jane Harper: Four vanilla chicken tacos, Cheech!
Chiaki nods, snaps Jane’s thong strap and runs off towards the grill before Jane can swat her. We start to hear more clanging and clattering. We hear another container open aaaaand…
Chiaki Sanada: Heeeere chicky chicky–AGHH, MMPH!!!!
Jane Harper: That’ll be Two hundred bucks, my dude.
Gym Bro: But you said a hundred!
Jane: Per order. Are you sure the steroids haven’t fucked with your brain as well as your nuts?
Gym Bro: Hey, I’m smart, but this seems like a ripoff to me!
Jane Harper: These are extra special tacos packed with protein, it’s totally worth the price.
Gym Bro: Yeah, I guess you’re right.
Meanwhile, just as this is said, Chiaki goes running by behind Jane with an octopus having attached itself, facehugger style, to her head. She disappears past the window and we hear her slam into something, knocking a bunch of shit over.
Gym Bro: What the hell was that?
Jane Harper: It’s just Chef’s process. She’s getting herself ready to make those tacos for you. One second.
Jane now disappears into the truck as people in the crowd, clearly knowing what’s going on are laughing to themselves while others wait, impatient with their arms crossed.
Jane Harper: Get off my girl, you whore!
We hear a loud grunt from Jane and then a loud clattering inside before the octopus goes flying out the window, just missing the gym bro by inches as he jumps back.
Jane Harper: The octopus is on the house, my dude.
Suddenly, a voice offscreen, outside the vehicle is heard shouting. The camera swings over and a man wearing a shirt with a logo matching the mobile establishment is running over from the convenience store it’s parked at.
Driver: Hey! What the hell are you two doing in my truck?!
Chiaki reappears, leaning out the window with slime dripping off her face. Her eyes nearly bug out of her head.
Chiaki Sanada: FAKK!! JANE-CHAN!! BUG OUT!!
Chi Chi climbs up into the window and jumps, landing in a monkey crouch on Gym Bro’s shoulders before tucking and rolling across the pavement. She comes face to face with the octopus and scampers back with a yelp.
Driver: Why the hell is Larry out of his aquarium?!
Chi Chi jumps to her feet as Jane launches herself off the steps, out of the door and the two take off, hauling ass away from the scene. The screen goes black and the spray can sprays “2BC’ across the screen again before a caption appears across the screen:
HYBRID Tag Division. Y’all Ain’t Ready!
We’re back to the main floor after the messages from more of HYBRID’s roster, with Marina Flores standing by alongside Dennis Folsom.
Marina Flores: Quite an event so far! Not many companies would be so open about how things are done, but I’m enjoying the transparency of HYBRID thus far!
Dennis Folsom: Same here. But it’s only a drop in the bucket; there are many and more looking to make their mark on the company.
Marina Flores: La Non Pardonné is a team in particular that looks like they have a lot of potential. The only team with more energy than them on the roster would be Natural Resources. A match between them would be quite exciting!
Dennis Folsom: You’re absolutely right, but my eyes are on the Bisque Dolls. They radiate an energy that immediately puts opponents on defense, and their manager definitely helps that along. I would not be surprised to see them walk out of Vanguard #0 with gold around their waists.
Marina Flores: Well, if we’re talking about who’s coming out with gold, my money is on The Lost. Or perhaps Natural Resources.
Dennis nods in agreement, the teams in question being shown on the big screen as the two talk about them, risen high in the background.
Dennis Folsom: But since we’re talking about winners… let’s look at the Global Heavyweight Tournament. Sixteen talents are slated for that, from fresh rookies to hardened veterans. That’s a much harder choice to make, wouldn’t you say?
Marina Flores: For sure. Experience counts for a lot, but you can’t exclude the possibility that a newcomer or dark horse will take it all. I wouldn't’ count out Noah Ortega, for instance, but neither would I close the book on Eddy Todd.
Dennis Folsom: You mentioned newbies, so what about Mikaela Callaway? Or Stephanie Kenyon?
Marina Flores: Good choices. How about Duke Andrews?
Dennis Folsom: Yeah, that’s where my money goes. Talk about a hunger to have it all so they can lord it over the crowd.
Marina Flores: Sometimes that’s all you need!
Both nod in agreement despite their disparate picks, the faces once again shuffling past on the big screen as they do so.
Dennis Folsom: The future indeed looks bright for the rEvolution!
Marina Flores: And with that in mind, let’s hear from a few more of the stars… in this case, Darcy Graves, Alessandra Diaz and Super Tiger!
Darcy is shown working out, lifting her weights and what not, as her father stood in front of her. He had been watching, keeping track as she had been doing her reps. The cameraman comes over and Ciaran waves him off. Ciaran goes around his daughter, as Darcy continued to work.
Ciaran Page: You know this is an opportunity for Darcy. She has been working hard to get ready for this debut, at hybrid. I'm quite proud of the fact that she has made her strides through the roughest of times.
Ciaran looked back as Darcy had picked up a resistance band starting to use it, as she flexed a bit showing off.
Ciaran Page: Here's the other thing, she's a premier athlete. She's been training since she was 14, with me and her mother. See hybrid, you have some good athletes, but there is no one like Darcy on your roster.
Darcy comes over looking at the camera then looked at her father, she then looked back at her camera.
"The Reaper" Darcy Graves: In time those who believe that they are the best, will be tested, judged. The reaper will fight everyone to prove a point, giving those who are to face me a chance.
Darcy puts her finger up, like the number 1, smiling to herself, looking over at her father who nods.
"The Reaper" Darcy Graves: When I debut, they will be given one chance and one chance only. Ten years on the circuit in the UK and Ireland, proving myself against those there. That is how I got my nickname the reaper, I've dispatched everyone in front of me. Hybrid get ready, the reaper cometh.
The cameraman nods, as she went back to what she was doing, Ciaran looking at him, then going back over to join Darcy, as he picked up some weights lifting them with her.
Ciaran Page: You know this is an opportunity for Darcy. She has been working hard to get ready for this debut, at hybrid. I'm quite proud of the fact that she has made her strides through the roughest of times.
Ciaran looked back as Darcy had picked up a resistance band starting to use it, as she flexed a bit showing off.
Ciaran Page: Here's the other thing, she's a premier athlete. She's been training since she was 14, with me and her mother. See hybrid, you have some good athletes, but there is no one like Darcy on your roster.
Darcy comes over looking at the camera then looked at her father, she then looked back at her camera.
"The Reaper" Darcy Graves: In time those who believe that they are the best, will be tested, judged. The reaper will fight everyone to prove a point, giving those who are to face me a chance.
Darcy puts her finger up, like the number 1, smiling to herself, looking over at her father who nods.
"The Reaper" Darcy Graves: When I debut, they will be given one chance and one chance only. Ten years on the circuit in the UK and Ireland, proving myself against those there. That is how I got my nickname the reaper, I've dispatched everyone in front of me. Hybrid get ready, the reaper cometh.
The cameraman nods, as she went back to what she was doing, Ciaran looking at him, then going back over to join Darcy, as he picked up some weights lifting them with her.
Alessandra and Xavier are on a cliff face as the cameraman comes and joins them. They are talking, she then looks over whispering something then Alessandra looked over to him.
Alessandra Diaz: My name is Alessandra Diaz, and this right here is my muscle, my watcher Xavier. See I finally have decided to travel through America and other places, especially hybrid. See people might not know me, but that's fine, because during this tournament I will make my name known. You might be asking yourself why I chose this spot? It's simple, I wanted a view to illustrate a point.
The cameraman nods as he looked over the cliff. Xavier goes over pushing him back, the cameraman falls, Aless offered him her hand. He takes it and she pulls him up then brushes him off as she glares over at Xavier.
Alessandra Diaz: This tournament is the excellent chance I need, to prove a point to the roster. This Latina mama is going to need the gold, it would add another layer to me.
She smiled as she went over to the lambo sitting there. Xavier comes over opening the door for her as she gets in, she looked over at the cameraman, getting herself comfortable.
Alessandra Diaz: Time to go, Xavier. And hybrid this is only the beginning you'll learn more as time goes on, just remember who I am.
The two then drive off. The cameraman looks at them as the black car speeds off.
Alessandra Diaz: My name is Alessandra Diaz, and this right here is my muscle, my watcher Xavier. See I finally have decided to travel through America and other places, especially hybrid. See people might not know me, but that's fine, because during this tournament I will make my name known. You might be asking yourself why I chose this spot? It's simple, I wanted a view to illustrate a point.
The cameraman nods as he looked over the cliff. Xavier goes over pushing him back, the cameraman falls, Aless offered him her hand. He takes it and she pulls him up then brushes him off as she glares over at Xavier.
Alessandra Diaz: This tournament is the excellent chance I need, to prove a point to the roster. This Latina mama is going to need the gold, it would add another layer to me.
She smiled as she went over to the lambo sitting there. Xavier comes over opening the door for her as she gets in, she looked over at the cameraman, getting herself comfortable.
Alessandra Diaz: Time to go, Xavier. And hybrid this is only the beginning you'll learn more as time goes on, just remember who I am.
The two then drive off. The cameraman looks at them as the black car speeds off.
Risa Jackson looks up from an autograph she's just finished signing for a fan, her signature smile lighting up her face.
Super Tiger Hiiiii!~ I'm super excited to be here! While I never wrestled for the original incarnation of HYBRID, I'm beyond stoked to be here for it's return! As you can see, my fans are happy I'm here too!
The camera pans over to show the massive throng of people wearing merch from across the young woman's career.
Super Tiger I've got plenty of work to do, and I'm definitely looking forward to getting in the ring with anyone and everyone between those ropes!
She laughs, and the crowd gives a massive cheer. The entire time she speaks, Super Tiger is signing autographs, or pausing momentarily for pictures.
Super Tiger Don't you worry, HYBRID fans! I'll be bringing my insanely fast offense and high flying every show! It'll be the Super Tiger you all know and love!
She laughs, giving a thumbs up. The camera no sooner turns to move on before the young woman is once again swallowed by the crowd, her diminutive stature meaning not even the top of her head can be seen amongst the masses. One hand shoots up and gives a 'peace' sign as the camera moves on.
Super Tiger Hiiiii!~ I'm super excited to be here! While I never wrestled for the original incarnation of HYBRID, I'm beyond stoked to be here for it's return! As you can see, my fans are happy I'm here too!
The camera pans over to show the massive throng of people wearing merch from across the young woman's career.
Super Tiger I've got plenty of work to do, and I'm definitely looking forward to getting in the ring with anyone and everyone between those ropes!
She laughs, and the crowd gives a massive cheer. The entire time she speaks, Super Tiger is signing autographs, or pausing momentarily for pictures.
Super Tiger Don't you worry, HYBRID fans! I'll be bringing my insanely fast offense and high flying every show! It'll be the Super Tiger you all know and love!
She laughs, giving a thumbs up. The camera no sooner turns to move on before the young woman is once again swallowed by the crowd, her diminutive stature meaning not even the top of her head can be seen amongst the masses. One hand shoots up and gives a 'peace' sign as the camera moves on.
Back down in the convention area, there’s some excitement going around… even more so than before. A large number of fans are lined up near one of the displays, each one holding tickets to Vanguard #0 taking place in two weeks! There’s many a happy face, whether it be on an adult or a child, and it generally makes everyone feel good. AMV went all-out with the contest, though, as not a single soul is without a bag of goodies, each one filled with not-yet-available merchandise for HYBRID.
Hikaru and Grace are still milling about, too, getting a few words in with some of the winners as well as a few others in attendance!
Hikaru Yamamoto: As you can see, fans, no one is leaving disappointed today! A good fifty ticket packages have been awarded to lucky fans, and five all-access passes, too!
Grace Savoy: And everyone is leaving with merchandise packages for goodies not even posted yet on our website! Methinks our CFO might be having words with the boss after the conference!
Hikaru Yamamoto: Oh, I’m sure she sees the good in it!
Both women smile for the camera, though as they’re about to speak again, they happen upon a couple of the new roster members for HYBRID, including Rayola Devine and Super Tiger, both of whom are enjoying some interaction with the fans. La Non Pardonné is present as well, but seem to be more… selective… about who they interact with.
Grace Savoy: Not everyone is a people person, I suppose.
Hikaru Yamamoto: You learn to live with it, Grace. It’s all right, though. There are plenty of heroes for the good people to latch on to…
Grace Savoy: ...and baddies for them to jeer, right?
Hikaru Yamamoto: Now you’re catching on!
The pair moves along a little more, but Hikaru pauses suddenly. The camera follows her view, which has Grace pausing, then looking in the same direction, then back again.
Grace Savoy: Is that…?
Hikaru Yamamoto: It is.
Showing uncharacteristic boldness, Hikaru walks up to the pair in question: a tall, dark-haired gentleman with a strong build and, on his arm, a slender woman with an easy smile and a dark beauty about her. Taking a deep breath, Hikaru speaks up.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Mr. Donavan? Mrs. Donavan?
Sure enough, the man turns and it is indeed Eric Donavan, the founder and former owner of HYBRID, alongside his wife, Lyra. The two aren’t necessarily going for the incognito look, yet surprisingly they aren’t besieged by the fans. Somehow, one gets the feeling that they prefer it this way. Eric is in a dark grey suit this evening while Lyra affects a black satin evening gown, clearly dressing to impress even if they prefer their solitude.
Hikaru Yamamoto: I… would have expected you to be up on the arena level, hearing from Mr. Vance.
Eric glances up for a moment, then shrugs and returns his attention to Hikaru.
Eric Donavan: No need. He has everything well in hand without me being a distraction. Why ruin his moment?
Hikaru Yamamoto: I mean, wouldn’t you consider it passing the torch?
Eric Donavan: Passing it? No. I left it laying, for better or worse, and he decided to pick it up. We did business, he made an offer and now HYBRID is under new ownership.
Grace Savoy: You sound rather blase about it if you don’t mind my saying so.
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: You’re blunt. I like that.
Grace turns to Lyra, who smiles at her like she’s something tasty to eat.
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: Do not be mistaken: my husband got an excellent deal for what he created. Now it is time for HYBRID to become something more, something new. He would not have sold it to someone who he felt might dishonor what he created. There’s just-
Eric Donavan: -no need to dwell on the past. This is the future. The HYBRID Nation’s calls are being answered. Vance and his board, they have a vision. I agree with this vision. That’s all there is to it.
Hikaru Yamamoto: What about yourselves?
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: In my case, wrestling is over… unless someone wants to make a deal that’s worth my time. Until then, I’ll see about opening a third Soul Garden here in Atlanta. That’s more than enough to keep me busy.
Hikaru nods a little, both sad and eager, if such a combination is possible. Grace, however, turns to Eric.
Grace Savoy: It is hard to imagine that you’re entirely done with wrestling, though, Mr. Donavan.
Smirking a little, Eric takes off his dark shades and tucks them into his jacket pocket. Lyra turns to look up at him, rather questioningly… as though they had not personally discussed such things. Stroking his goatee a little, Eric speaks calmly, slowly… with meaning.
Eric Donavan: The best way I can answer that is… I am always prepared to enter a wrestling ring, Miss Savoy, provided I am shown the respect I am due. Frankly, most companies out there don’t know shit about shit. You can tell that by the alarming rate at which they go under. That is the reason Mr. Vance has my blessing. But to answer your half-question? No. I am NOT done in wrestling. But truthfully, I don’t think there’s a company out there that suits me. Yet.
Lyra LeVeux-Donavan: Now, if you’ll excuse us, ladies?
And so they do, watching as Eric and Lyra move off into the crowd like ghosts.
Hikaru Yamamoto: That was nerve-wracking. But on the other hand, it is nice to know that the new HYBRID has the old HYBRID’s blessing, right?
Grace Savoy: I believe you’re right. Now, we have a few more stars to hear from before we send it back upstairs.
Hikaru Yamamoto: Indeed we do… including the Bisque Dolls and Bianca Davis!
We open to see none other than acclaimed wrestling manager Charlie Grace standing with their hands clasped behind their back. Behind and flanking them are the Bisque Dolls. Both dressed in white, Victorian-style dresses.
Charlie Grace: I would assume that we do not need any introduction but I shall do so just the same. My name is Charlie Grace and behind me are the Sallow Twins. Katheryn and Catheryn. Known to most as the Bisque Dolls.
Charlie motions to the Dolls. Both of which tilt their heads and grin in unison.
Charlie Grace: I will forgive most of you, for now, for not easily recognizing the Dolls. They have not been around the business long. Which is why they have found their way here. They already have a championship pedigree in under a year. They will enjoy playing with the other teams here in HYBRID.
The twins release a giggle in stereo.
Charlie Grace: You’ll all be seeing them more. To the detriment of most.
Cathryn Sallow: We look forward…
Kathryn Sallow: ...to playing with you all.
Sallow Twins: It will be so much fun.
The twins once again smile and tile their heads in unison. The trio strike an eerie group. Almost as if the Dolls are the ghosts they appear to be.
Charlie Grace: I would assume that we do not need any introduction but I shall do so just the same. My name is Charlie Grace and behind me are the Sallow Twins. Katheryn and Catheryn. Known to most as the Bisque Dolls.
Charlie motions to the Dolls. Both of which tilt their heads and grin in unison.
Charlie Grace: I will forgive most of you, for now, for not easily recognizing the Dolls. They have not been around the business long. Which is why they have found their way here. They already have a championship pedigree in under a year. They will enjoy playing with the other teams here in HYBRID.
The twins release a giggle in stereo.
Charlie Grace: You’ll all be seeing them more. To the detriment of most.
Cathryn Sallow: We look forward…
Kathryn Sallow: ...to playing with you all.
Sallow Twins: It will be so much fun.
The twins once again smile and tile their heads in unison. The trio strike an eerie group. Almost as if the Dolls are the ghosts they appear to be.
The scene soon cuts out and restarts in a dark throne room of sorts, the lights dim as only a mirror can be seen. Soon, the lights get brighter but in a purplish hue as the cameras can now see a purple and black throne. Sitting in it, in front of the mirror, is none other than the Queen of HYBRID, Bianca Davis. The Queen is dressed in a purple royal gown with black high heel pumps, which match the black crown on her head. Next to her is her trademark scepter. The Queen soon speaks in a posh British accent toward the mirror in a slow methodical way.
Queen Bianca Davis: Mirror, mirror… who will be the first Global Heavyweight Champion of the rEveloution era of HYBRID? Who is the only rightful, true Queen of this company, the only monarch worthy of praise? The most beautiful of them all- oh, right, it's all me. Of course it is. Queen Bianca Davis, the first of her name.
Bianca smirks proudly at her declaration as she keeps her eyes fixated on the mirror, speaking in the same fake British accent.
Queen Bianca Davis: Now, I know I wasn’t around for the first HYBRID run, and I know of the names that have been a part of this place’s history. Eric Donovan, Kara Carbjal-then-Carter, Kayla Richards, Stacy Jones, and, ughhhhhh, Griffin Hawkins, even. But this is a new era, a better era, the era of the Queen of HYBRID. How I rule will depend on how the peasants treat me; if they acknowledge me as their Queen, and bend the knee, they will find I can be a very benevolent and caring Queen toward her subjects. However, if you oppose me and disrespect the crown? Well, that is when the Queen must be cruel, that is when the Queen must rule with the iron first, and that is when you will face…
Bianca has an evil look on her face as she says in the same posh-sounding tone.
Queen Bianca Davis: ...a royal execution that will be the fate of all those who oppose the rightful of the Queen of HYBRID. Now, the Global Heavyweight Tournament has many names I am familiar with, many I have yet to wrestle, many I have, but one thing is certain… one thing my mirror over here has shown me is that when the dust settles only one will emerge as the winner. One champion in the sea of contenders and that winner, that champion, the one who will hold the crown as Global Heavyweight Champion when it's all said and done will be…
Bianca looks at the mirror and her smile grows big, as she acts like she sees what she wants to see within her own reflection.
Queen Bianca Davis: That winner will be the one true Queen of this business. That championship will be the exclamation mark, the crown jewel of my queendom here in HYBRID. They will learn why it always is as I wish. I will win my first ever World Championship and if anyone steps in my way I will make them fall before me.
Bianca points down to the ground by her feet as she says in a matter-of-fact tone maintaining the same poshness in her voice.
Queen Bianca Davis: That is they will bend the knee, as will all of you watching this address will do. Now, long live Queen Bianca Davis, first of her name, and true Queen of HYBRID you are all now dismissed from my presence.
Bianca shoos off the cameraman as she stands, staring with a huge smirk before an evil-sounding laugh can be heard as the lights dim again and go completely purple as she then shoos the camera away from her as the scene fades to black.
Queen Bianca Davis: Mirror, mirror… who will be the first Global Heavyweight Champion of the rEveloution era of HYBRID? Who is the only rightful, true Queen of this company, the only monarch worthy of praise? The most beautiful of them all- oh, right, it's all me. Of course it is. Queen Bianca Davis, the first of her name.
Bianca smirks proudly at her declaration as she keeps her eyes fixated on the mirror, speaking in the same fake British accent.
Queen Bianca Davis: Now, I know I wasn’t around for the first HYBRID run, and I know of the names that have been a part of this place’s history. Eric Donovan, Kara Carbjal-then-Carter, Kayla Richards, Stacy Jones, and, ughhhhhh, Griffin Hawkins, even. But this is a new era, a better era, the era of the Queen of HYBRID. How I rule will depend on how the peasants treat me; if they acknowledge me as their Queen, and bend the knee, they will find I can be a very benevolent and caring Queen toward her subjects. However, if you oppose me and disrespect the crown? Well, that is when the Queen must be cruel, that is when the Queen must rule with the iron first, and that is when you will face…
Bianca has an evil look on her face as she says in the same posh-sounding tone.
Queen Bianca Davis: ...a royal execution that will be the fate of all those who oppose the rightful of the Queen of HYBRID. Now, the Global Heavyweight Tournament has many names I am familiar with, many I have yet to wrestle, many I have, but one thing is certain… one thing my mirror over here has shown me is that when the dust settles only one will emerge as the winner. One champion in the sea of contenders and that winner, that champion, the one who will hold the crown as Global Heavyweight Champion when it's all said and done will be…
Bianca looks at the mirror and her smile grows big, as she acts like she sees what she wants to see within her own reflection.
Queen Bianca Davis: That winner will be the one true Queen of this business. That championship will be the exclamation mark, the crown jewel of my queendom here in HYBRID. They will learn why it always is as I wish. I will win my first ever World Championship and if anyone steps in my way I will make them fall before me.
Bianca points down to the ground by her feet as she says in a matter-of-fact tone maintaining the same poshness in her voice.
Queen Bianca Davis: That is they will bend the knee, as will all of you watching this address will do. Now, long live Queen Bianca Davis, first of her name, and true Queen of HYBRID you are all now dismissed from my presence.
Bianca shoos off the cameraman as she stands, staring with a huge smirk before an evil-sounding laugh can be heard as the lights dim again and go completely purple as she then shoos the camera away from her as the scene fades to black.
After the videos, Grace Savoy spots "The Radical" Clayton Kane on the convention level. Head bowed, wearing a black leather trenchcoat with the hood pulled over his head, he's like a bull in a china shop, pushing his way through the crowd... this, apparently, is the person we've caught sight of a few times before in the evening.
Grace Savoy: Mr. Kane, you're new to HYBRID; would you mind--
Clayton gruffly cuts her off.
Clayton Kane: Out of my way.
He blows right past her, not even sparing a moment to look over his shoulder. He grumbles under his breath, growing more and more impatient.
Clayton Kane: Where is it? Where is it?
Clayton scans the area for a moment, before turning back toward Grace Savoy.
Clayton Kane: On second thought, where is the exit?
Grace Savoy: You answer one of my questions and I answer yours, deal?
She extends her hand to him to shake on it. Clayton just looks down at the outstretched hand, but makes no effort to accept it. Instead he looks back up at her.
Clayton Kane: Ask.
Savoy lowers her hand to her side.
Grace Savoy: Since you're new to HYBRID, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.
Sneering, Clayton looms over her.
Clayton Kane: Sure, I fucking hate answering stupid questions.
He glances behind them as a handful of children run up with their parents in tow.
Children: Mr. Kane, Mr. Kane, can we get your autograph?
Growling, Kane wheels away leaving Savoy with the kids and their parents.
Clayton Kane: Fucking rugrats. Next they'll want me to cuddle with Big Bird.
He continues his search for the exit as we cut away.
Grace Savoy: Mr. Kane, you're new to HYBRID; would you mind--
Clayton gruffly cuts her off.
Clayton Kane: Out of my way.
He blows right past her, not even sparing a moment to look over his shoulder. He grumbles under his breath, growing more and more impatient.
Clayton Kane: Where is it? Where is it?
Clayton scans the area for a moment, before turning back toward Grace Savoy.
Clayton Kane: On second thought, where is the exit?
Grace Savoy: You answer one of my questions and I answer yours, deal?
She extends her hand to him to shake on it. Clayton just looks down at the outstretched hand, but makes no effort to accept it. Instead he looks back up at her.
Clayton Kane: Ask.
Savoy lowers her hand to her side.
Grace Savoy: Since you're new to HYBRID, why don't you tell us a little about yourself.
Sneering, Clayton looms over her.
Clayton Kane: Sure, I fucking hate answering stupid questions.
He glances behind them as a handful of children run up with their parents in tow.
Children: Mr. Kane, Mr. Kane, can we get your autograph?
Growling, Kane wheels away leaving Savoy with the kids and their parents.
Clayton Kane: Fucking rugrats. Next they'll want me to cuddle with Big Bird.
He continues his search for the exit as we cut away.
When the conference returns from its final break, the ring is cleared out save for a microphone, and it is in the hand of Aloysius Marcus Vance IV, flanked by Trenton Mitchell. The big man stands with thickly-muscled arms folded across his broad chest while AMV, his free hand in his pocket, brings up the stick. The rest of the arena is darkened a bit, the spotlight on the man in charge.
Bernadette Olson: Looks like it’s time, Jacob, to run down what we can expect to see at Vanguard #0!
Jacob Frankel: And not to brag, but we got the best seats in the house, right there at ringside! Well… along with a few lucky fans from earlier that won ringside seats! Gotta envy them!
Letting the murmurs and excitement simmer a little longer, AMV finally brings up the microphone.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: In two weeks, ladies and gentlemen, this ring will see a massive event take place within it. Five titles up for grabs through two tournaments and three multi-person and multi-team matches. Vanguard #0… an event appropriately titled “Change the World”.
Because we aim to do just that.
More murmurs, now of agreement, and some shouts of excitement. AMV soaks this up before continuing on.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Sixteen men and women will face off in a one-night tournament for the Global Heavyweight Championship. Eight teams will battle in a similar tournament for the Global Tag Team Championships. The Vanguard Championship will be decided on in an Egregious Eight-Way Ladder Match. The Iron Heart Championship will be up for grabs in a Savage Six-Way Elimination Match. And the Brotherhood/Sisterhood Titles will be determined in a Fatal Four-Way Tornado Tag Team Match. So as you can see… there’s literally something for everyone to shoot for.
That certainly gets some attention. It is no wonder that the gates open at four! A show with that much to offer can’t help but run several hours!
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: But where do we go from there, you ask? How about having our first pay-per-view, Fall of Man, on September 25th?
Trenton nods firmly in the background, whispering something to Vance which makes the boss-man grin and whisper back before addressing the crowd once more.
Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: But that’s enough talking, wouldn’t you say? It’s two weeks until Vanguard #0, and I expect to see everyone there, at the genesis of the rEvolution!
And with that, the conference is brought to a close, cameras cutting back to the stage and the Vanguard commentary team to bring things to a finish.
Bernadette Olson: They were looking to start with a bang and so they did!
Jacob Frankel: Rather, they lit the fuse and that massive explosion is taking place right here in Atlanta in two weeks!
Bernadette Olson: You’re not gonna wanna miss it folks! The same week that this country celebrates its independence you’re gonna see some REAL fireworks in that ring!
Jacob Frankel: We’ll see you then!
Fade to black.
