HYBRID Best Served Cold 2023

---

”You know I don’t mind doing this, old friend, but… I gotta ask why.”

The voice unmistakably belongs to Aloysius Marcus Vance IV and, as we find out quickly enough, the person he’s speaking to is none other than Trenton Mitchell. Except… it doesn’t look like the latter is gearing up for a night running security for a pay-per-view event. The way he’s taping his fists and wrists and the nature of his attire screams “man looking for a fight”. Trenton sits on the bench in the locker room, slowly performing his ministrations. When there’s no verbal response to his question, AMV gets yet more curious.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Come on, don’t keep me in the dark here!

He tries to keep his tone light, but AMV is very much concerned. After another minute, he’s about to prod further but Trenton cuts him off.

Trenton Mitchell: It’s either this or top off my retainer.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: That’s… foreboding. This got anything to do with-

Trenton Mitchell: Everything.

That single word sobers AMV up considerably. He rubs his face in his hands, taking a deep breath before lowering them. He wants to say something but the words don’t come, which is a rarity for the verbose fourth-generation lawyer. Or perhaps it's just that he knows Trenton too well; words wouldn’t do shit at this point. Trenton gets to his feet, grabbing a familiar-looking leather vest off the nearby rack and putting it on.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Do what you gotta do. I got your back. Same as always.

Trenton takes a breath, then slaps AMV on the back almost firmly enough to knock him over.

Trenton Mitchell: Probably why you’re the only motherfucker I care to call friend anymore.

That’s even MORE worrisome. At least to AMV. Trenton leaves the locker room as the owner takes out his phone and makes a call as he, too, leaves the room.



The show cuts to Cordelia Clark backstage and she is in a very confident and determined mood. She is not fazed at all by the challenge that is coming up for her and as she gathers her thoughts, she reflects on her early Hybrid experiences. For the most part, she has a lot of good things on her mind as she begins to express her thoughts.

Cordelia Clark: HAPPY NEW YEAR! Trust me, I’m VERY excited about the new year! So, as far as my time here in Hybrid goes, there’s been some ups and downs of course but I KNOW that this is going to be a hell of a year for me! Last year brought me so many good things in and out of Hybrid, but I am going to make this vow right here, right now! I am JUST getting started! What you saw out of me last year when I first came here was an appetizer of what’s to come! I didn’t win my last match against Eddy Todd, I am very well aware of that. But someone of my age and experience lasting as long as I did and giving him the fight that I did? Yeah, that speaks VOLUMES right there and I am going to be straight up when I say that among everyone in this match with me, I gave him the best match ANY of us could’ve ever given him.

I know… that’s bold.

But I know my potential now! I learned so much last year about what I am capable of and this is the year for me to put it all together and I’m NOT going to be the star that I know in my heart I am on track to becoming by being meek and afraid and not wanting to take chances. I know what I just said is going to ruffle some feathers, but that’s fine. Come after me all you want. I might look the part, but I’m not some innocent, timid little sweetheart that’s afraid of everything in her path… no matter how some of you might wish I would be…

Cordelia takes a pause as she thinks about the match ahead.

Cordelia Clark: Now as far as this challenge goes? Yeah, I want this and I want this more than a lot of you. Half of you in this match are here just to be here. You’ve got names in this thing that COULD be bigger names than they actually are, but don’t necessarily have the passion and the heart to be and I’m looking straight at Cass Baumer when I say this. No offense, Cass. I like you. I think you’re a solid as hell wrestler. But I don’t see you put yourself out there and reach for the brass ring the way someone of your stature should. You’ve got names in this thing that want to be a… pardon my language here… total ASSHOLE just for the sake of being a total ASSHOLE. Yeah, that’s right Duke Andrews. I’m talking about you. I AM an ADULT you know. You think I was going to forget about your little comment toward me following my match against Eddy Todd? Get the hell out of here with that. I may be a lot younger and a lot less experienced than you, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t have what it takes. You want to underestimate me and cast me aside? Fine! I know I can beat you! I did it once before in that four way… and speaking of that match…

I’ve got another familiar face from that match in Sam Tolson… who I PINNED in that match. It’s funny how someone like her likes to boast and brag when things go well for her or when she’s booked in a title match or a main event but when a setback happens, it’s basically ghostly silence like it never happened. The thing is… I don’t dislike Tolson. But at the same time, I feel as if she’s got too many blind spots in the back of her head. It’s like she’s afraid to be vulnerable. When I had my loss to Stephanie Kenyon a few weeks back, I opened up and I talked about how that hurt and how that affected my confidence because I AM a human being with the drive and the desire to be the best that I know I am capable of being in this sport. When I pinned Tolson, it was like nothing happened: no mention of it, no discussion of how it pushed her to be better… which tells me that she doesn’t have the drive that I do and maybe if she did, she would’ve won her title match she had recently. You’ve also got some names like Aiden Morrow… by the way, he was in that match too… and a familiar face in Katie Anderson.

Throw all the names you want into this thing, but the name that they’re going to be talking about is mine! If there ever was a time for me to have a big breakout year, this is it! I’m going to make this opportunity count and when I do, so many of you in this match are going to wish they didn’t overlook me!

Cordelia stays confident and her drive is very prevalent as she exits the scene.

---

Best. Served. Cold.

Best. Wrestler. Ever.

Duke Andrews: As I contemplate what’s most important, the here and now will always take front and center stage. What’s most important will always be taking the top spot in MY COMPANY. What’s most important, is taking my title. But to get to that point, to get my shot, to get what’s mine, another fucking hoop. But I get it, I really do.

Sitting in between the wooden confines of the locker, he was dressed and ready to go. His wrists taped, black tape covering his hands and up his wrists. Knuckles taped in a bright blue tape. An open hooded vest around his torso as he hunched forward. His long trunks were solid black in color. A bright blue, same as the tape, design down the legs, reminiscent of his tattoos, with a light grey “Duke Andrews” down the right leg.

Duke Andrews: I get what AMV really wants. He wants to feel like he’s important and gives out opportunities to those that have earned them.

Using air quotes around the word “earned”.

Duke Andrews: Because apparently kicking the teeth down everyone’s throat since I’ve been here, hasn’t earned anything. But to be fair, it’s not different of an approach of any other promoter. And look at me when I tell you this, Vance, I have seen promoters use this tactic before. I’ve seen the dog and pony show, and as much as you’re going to puff your chest and tell me that’s not true, and blah blah blah, this, this match here, is the last hoop I will jump through. You want me to prove myself to you, because apparently my resumè doesn’t speak loudly, so what happens tonight is on your hands. I’ll get my shot on my own merit. I’ll play along with your “opportunity” card you want to play, but that’s it. I’ve bided my time, and gone through every measure. And now, I’m going to remind you why you wanted me so bad. Why you backed the money truck up and unloaded it in my driveway.

Duke lifted his hands and pulled himself up from the bottom of the locker.

Duke Andrews: And once again, I’ll do what I do best, and prove to you and everyone else why I’m the best wrestler alive.


We cut to the lounge area of one of the State Farm Arena’s Loft Suites. There, we see Gigi Nova standing in her ring gear, her back toward the bar as she stares outward toward the empty arena. The faint sounds of “Murder One” by Metallica can be heard as she nods her head to the music.


Gigi Nova: “Best Served Cold…”

Gigi rests her hands on the edge of the bar, looking into the camera with a mild smirk on her face.

Gigi Nova: Kind of a fitting name for the show where I’ll be in one of the most important matches of my career.

She chuckles softly.

Gigi Nova: But in every journey, there are bound to be roadblocks, right? There will always be circumstances designed to hinder – if not bring such a journey to a screeching halt.

She moves around the bar from one side to the back, and there’s a look of peace washing over her as she closes her eyes and sighs.

Gigi Nova: It should come as no surprise that I feel quite at home behind the bar. I love mixing drinks; I love hearing some of the craziest stories you could ever imagine. But while bartending has always brought me joy, my first love has always been wrestling.

She pauses, reaching down behind the bar to grab a glass with some ice. Reaching down again, she pulls up a bottle of white rum – or at least that’s what the label says, because the bottle is almost empty. She shakes her head and opens her mouth as if to comment on the empty rum bottle, but thinks better of it.

Gigi Nova: Now, I never expected my time in this business to be easy, but I practically find myself staring at a brick wall. I mean, the way I see it, this match is designed to give every advantage to Jessi Ozborne, while making things damn near impossible for me. And hell, even if I find myself within a fingertip away from winning, what’s to stop my opponent from finding another proverbial stop sign to throw in my face. For that matter, what’s to stop her from throwing a LITERAL stop sign in my face?

She scoffs, tilting her head as she raises her eyebrows and nods.

Gigi Nova: Yeah, yeah… I know. If I keep talking like that, it’ll become a self-fulfilling prophecy or some shit like that. But hey, Lorenzo DID tell me to be ready for anything, didn’t he?

She chuckles.

Gigi Nova: It doesn’t matter. I know Jessi is going to do everything she can to tip the odds in her favor; I would expect nothing less from her. But if she’s learned nothing else from me, then she should know that I can take whatever she throws at me and dish it right back out to her. And even when I’ve got the odds stacked against me, I don’t back down.

She crouches down behind the bar, letting out an “aha!” as she emerges into view again, holding a bottle of Jack Daniel’s. She pours some of its contents over the ice in the glass, then puts it back under the bar and pulls up a can of Coke.

Gigi Nova: Just when you think you’ve got me, I come back with an even better strategy. “Be ready for anything,” my agent said...

She cracks open the can and pours it into the glass to top off the Jack Daniel’s.

Gigi Nova: You can count on it, Jessi! Either way, this shit between us ends tonight. And some of the best drinks I’ve ever mixed up were on the rocks. So expect me to serve up something special, just for you. Here’s to ya!

She raises the glass toward the camera as she smiles. With that, the scene fades out.



The camera finds Rain and GoGo excitedly waiting their turn to go out and ply their trade.

GoGo: Oh, Rainie!!!! I can’t wait! I can’t wait! I can’t wait! We’re gonna get to go out there with Cheech and Hammer and the creepy twins and get to wrest;e them all at the SAME TIME!!!!

Rain nods just as happy at the prospects of the night’s action.

Rain: You ain’t wrong, Goldi! We gonna get to go out there and roll for all these people and it’s gonna be so fuckin’ COOL!

GoGo practically starts bouncing in place where she stands, clapping like a schoolgirl getting a shiny new toy.

GoGo: You think Cheech is gonna be ready?

Rain shrugs.

Rain: I think Hammer’s gonna do her best to get Cheech ready to fight these ghouls like they stole her pocky and tried to eat it all themselves! If he don’t, you know HayJo’ll have been back at the house in Cali.

GoGo nods, her smile somehow managing to brighten even more than it already was to begin with.

GoGo: This is gonna be too AWESOME!

Rain: Just like always! Come on, Goldi, let’s go have some fun!

GoGo nods and the two walk off towards the door of the room they were occupying.



There’s a change of perspective within the State Farm Arena. The HYBRID Tron comes to life and the fans are treated to this visual. A closed-off section of the Atlanta Social reveals a camera zoomed in on a pair of legs.

Jacob Frankel: O-oh my…

Bernadette Olson: What is this?

Naturally, wolf whistles resonate from the crowd. The left leg crosses over the right. The camera’s slow zoom out shows off a pair of black stiletto high heels… and then finally, the female is completely revealed.

Jacob Frankel: Hot DAMN, that’s the Goddess of Ice and Sex!

Bernadette Olson: Chelsea Pryce… What is she doing here?!

Blonde hair, jade eyes, smoky makeup, ruby lipstick, and a sexy little black dress that hugs every curve in all the right ways… Fans of all genders are swooning! Chelsea leans back against the white recliner seat with a twisted little smirk.

Chelsea Pryce: Hello there…

There’s the sound… of footsteps. The clicking of heels along the floor from off-camera. The camera pans over -- carefully -- and a woman in a white shimmering dress approaches.

Bernadette Olson: Wait a minute. Is that…?

Jacob Frankel: Oh my God, it’s Xaria Linette! The Rainbow Angel is here!

And her new makeover is stunning! Softened red locks, emerald eyes, and white high heels compliment her look. Xaria smiles and moves to take a seat on the black recliner next to Chelsea. They’re beautiful and stunning polar opposites.

Xaria Linette: ...did you miss us?

The fans are bursting with cheers! The Angelic Harbinger crosses her right leg over her left. Xaria Linette and Chelsea Pryce in the same place at the same time… Have they come to shake the tag-team division of HYBRID rEvolution?! Right then and there, the HYBRID Tron “blacks out”, and four words in silver and gold reveal themselves to the delight of the crowd.



In the State Farm Arena, the show had been going strong with the first few matches that had happened. Up next, however, was what Rob hoped to be the end of an annoyance in his Hybrid career. For weeks, Blake Mason had been a thorn in his side one way or another, and he had been somewhat forced to inadvertently (at first) be one in Mason’s side in return. Now to begin with, Rob tried brushing the guy off…he tried being nice for the sake of Harper Lee who was a friend of his and Blake’s other half, but the time for that had passed. Marino’s matches had been messed with, and one of the big things he wouldn’t ignore or tolerate was interference in his matches. Now backstage with Kaede, a very frustrated Rob could be seen walking back and forth in front of his locker room. He glanced at the door every now and then simply because his nephew, newly signed Hybrid talent, Aiden Marino was watching Adalynne for him since Lluvia and Jonna had a match of their own to get prepared for.

Robert Marino:[/color] You know…I was willing to brush you off to begin with, Blake. Let bygones be bygones and all of that good crap for Harper’s sake. No, she didn’t ask me to, but she didn’t have to. I’m not one to start drama with a friend’s loved one, after all. But you just couldn’t drop how you think your way is the best way.

Rob paused as he glanced at his locker room door once more before shaking his head, his gaze instead focusing on the camera that was being operated in front of him. The man was already in his ring gear, ready to head down for his match when he needed to do so. Kaede was standing next to him, a smirk on her face as she let him do the talking like he preferred doing. He glanced at her, shooting a smile her way before continuing.

Robert Marino: You just couldn’t accept the fact that someone disagreed with you. That someone prefers to work hard and handle things honestly instead of taking the easy way out. I went to training with people like you…they made me sick, but the drill sergeants saw through them pretty quick. I see you for who you are, Blake. Take the easy way, hope it works out for you, and always have a scapegoat for if it doesn’t go in your favor.

Marino shook his head in disgust as he said that. By this point, Rob had stopped walking back and forth in the little path that he had been pacing in. There was a determined look written across his face, something that was seen in every match that he had but there was something different about it this time. He was out to prove a point when he and Blake met in the ring again, and he didn’t care how much of himself he had to put into the match to make that point.

Robert Marino:[/color] You won’t have a scapegoat tonight, Blake. When the easy way doesn’t work for you, you won’t have anyone or anything to blame but yourself. You won’t have a choice but to realize that the easy way isn’t always the best way. Maybe then you’ll realize that when someone doesn’t want your so-called advice, you’ll move on to someone that, for some unknown reason, does want it. I’ll see you in the ring…there’s nothing else to say to you tonight.

With that, Rob looked over at Kaede, and with a shared nod, the pair walked off down the hallway. The camera followed them until they were out of view then cut to black, ending the feed from the backstage area.



“I should be in contention for a championship…”

In the darkness, the Intellectual Evolution’s voice resonates softly. Strangely, there is a little static, some kind of audio distortion while he continues to speak.

“...but instead, I have to deal with a bloody insect.”

Then suddenly, a single light comes on. It shines on an old wooden stool that holds up a strange-looking electronic device. A radio of sorts? A tape cassette player? Its design is styled in the early 60s. Upon closer inspection, it looks eerily familiar. Unsettling.

Nathaniel Dixon: Mr. Aloysius Marcus Vance the Fourth seems to believe my little…

{STATIC}

…skirmish…

{STATIC}

…with Stephanie Kenyon is pay-per-view worthy. Honestly, this should have been left for an episode of Vanguard. This little girl is a nuisance. She enjoys irritating me -- like nails on a chalkboard. Scathing, really.

{STATIC}

Oh, bebold the bloody Kingdom… Suddenly, they’re the heroes?

{STATIC}

HAH!

There’s a loud burst of static when Nathaniel laughs! Now the visual, itself, is flickering.

Nathaniel Dixon: A web of deception. A hive of insipid little creatures. They’re still arrogant bitches. They don’t give a damn about anyone but themselves. Such a shame Jansen Myrrh could not put Morgan Payne down… Oh, look. A member of the Kingdom is the New Frontier Wrestling World Heavyweight Champion.

Again…

{STATIC}

Old.
Boring.
Trash.

{STATIC}

So when Mr. Eric Donavan sells HYBRID Wrestling to Mr. Vance, the company rises… and the little Kitten believes she can rise with the Collective?

{STATIC}

No. In reality, the world grows tired of them. It was better off when it was dust in the wind. Lo and behold, the Queen pulls Lilith Meadows from the darkness. All is well!

{STATIC}

To quote Jack Darling…? “Gag me with a spoon.”

Another burst of static and the visual changes. The recording device is covered in what appears to be blood. Yet even now, Nathaniel continues.

Nathaniel Dixon: Oh, kitty, kitty… You will not find your glory here. I care not for you. I tire of your Collective. You are nothing but a pawn on the chessboard, a weak link in the Kingdom…

{STATIC}

…and the One True King is about to trample over you.

No more promises.
Only pain.
Glory to Your Lord of Charisma.


A burst of laughter, a burst of static, the only light flickering on and off. The recording device suddenly stops with a distorted blur --

And then everything is dark once again.

---

The camera finds Stephanie “Wildcat” Kenyon standing in front of a HYBRID rEvolution backdrop.

Stephanie Kenyon: Tonight I face a man who is constantly complaining about things. I face a man who is so busy bitching and moaning that he never bothers to do anything about it. You’ve heard people spout that stuff about the definition of insanity…

She nods and then points to the camera.

Stephanie Kenyon: Well, he ain’t spoutin’ that, he’s livin’ it!

She waves her arms out wide.

Stephanie Kenyon: For all this talk about how smart you is, how dangerous you is, you provin’ other adages in talk is cheap and show, don’t tell, that last one bein’ why you’re so damn miserable all the time.

Her arms drop back down even as her eyes harden in their laer-like glare.

Stephanie Kenyon: You talk way too much, do way too little and then complain when you did the same damn thing you been doin’ for pushin’ twenty years and wonder why it ain’t gettin; you anywhere!

She shakes her head like this is the stupidest thing she’s ever heard in her life.

Stephanie Kenyon: Of course it ain’t gettn’ you anywhere, why would it? It didn’t work when you was young, it didn't work when you was at your physical peak, it ain’t gonna work now!

She sighs, almost laughing.

Stephanie Kenyon: I know you’re just gonna blow me off because it’s what you do, but all that shit you bitch about, it’s on you! YOU are the one who refuses to actually learn. YOU are the one who refuses to change your ways. YOU are the one who does the same old shit every time and YOU are the reason YOU fail!

Shaking her head again, she looks like she almost wants to spit in disgust.

Stephanie Kenyon: My God man, you complaining about your ways not winning you any gold would be like me complaining that I crashed a lot f bikes in races because I went wide fuckin’ open and caught too much air! Of course I crashed and it was totally on me when I did. Ain’t nobody held a gun to my head and said, “Steph, ride like a bat out of hell with your hair on fire or else!” I just did it and sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn’t but I learned as I went on when it was worth the try and when it wasn’t.

She points into the camera accusingly.

Stephanie Kenyon: THAT is your biggest failure, Nathaniel. It ain’t that you’ve won as many championships as I have, it’s that you choose not to and then complain about it as if that’s somehow on somebody else! It’s not and until you can manage to learn that, you ain’t never gonna win a damn thing!

Her hand drops out of the show but the expression on her face remains fixed.

Stephanie Kenyon: Tonight, there’s gonna be a lesson learned by both of us and the only question is gonna be if you choose to actually accept it or try and blow it off all over again!

---

The scene opens backstage; Blake Mason and Christy Hightower stand in front of a blue door, with a smug expression on his face, Blake doesn’t waste any time speaking.

Blake Mason: Hey Robeirre, bet you didn’t see that coming, huh?

Blake chuckles. Christy rests her hands on her hip, remaining stoic.

Blake Mason: It didn’t have to be this way. When I offered to be the hand that fed you, I assumed you were going to do the smart thing and accept my offer. Tell me Rob, how many people in this company have even bothered to take an interest in your career development? Don’t they teach you in the Marines to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you? Same life lesson applies to professional wrestling, when someone smarter than you offers you to sit under their learning tree, accept.

Christy nods in agreement.

Christy Hightower: And before anyone jumps to conclusions, what happened out there Mr. Marino, Blake didn’t coerce me. The plan out there was one hundred percent mine.

Christy winks.

Christy Hightower: I wanted to kiss you Rob from the moment I laid eyes on you. I know, I know, you have a girlfriend. A minor inconvenience. I have no plans of playing the role of homewrecker. Can you blame me for wanting to feel your lips pressed up against mine? So I devised the scheme where I get what I want and Blake teaches you a much needed lesson. You could have had it all. Being Blake’s apprentice. Me by your side. The three of us could have been a trinity the wrestling world needed to look out for. Sadly Rob, you choose wrong.

Christy blows a kiss at the camera. Blake rests his hand on her shoulder.

Blake Mason: I learned a lesson too. No one in this company is worthy of sitting under my learning tree. My hostile takeover is in full motion, and, I’m going to outsource any help I need to complete my goals for 2023. Stay tuned Hybrid. Welcome... to the Blake. Mason. Experience.

Blake turns around to open the door. Him and Christy walk inside. Once the door is shut behind them, we can see a nameplate that reads “Hostile Takeover.” Scene fades to black.


Once again, backstage at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, the beloved Haven of HYBRID Wrestling Origin is set up for the viewers to enjoy. The painting of Sakura trees hanging on the wall opposite the door, the four marble pillars in the corners of the room that hold up elegant Japanese vases, and the Japanese cypress wood coffee table sits in the center with a lovely tea set on top. There are chibi Shiba Inu puppies painted on this set. Around the table are two matching black leather recliner seats and a black leather loveseat.

“Nante hidoi! Ano monsutā…”
{How horrible! That monster…}

This is a stark contrast to the emotional energy of the Haven itself. Dressed in a blue ceremonial kimono, a young boy shakes his head slowly and tries to draw himself away from the monitor. What he was seeing was the aftermath of Nathaniel Dixon versus Stephanie Kenyon. The intense application of the grapevine ankle lock, the snapping of Stephanie’s ankle…

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: I-I can’t believe he did that…

“Oh, Mino-kun…

That’s when the monitor is turned off. The camera pans back to reveal Mrs. Hikaru Page dressed in a pink ceremonial kimono. She makes her way over to the loveseat and carefully kneels down before him, placing her gentle hands on his shoulders.

Hikaru Page: Gomen'nasai. Hitsuyōniōjite, otōsan to issho ni hoteru ni modoru koto ga dekimasu.
{I'm sorry. If you want, you can go back to the hotel with your Dad.}

Even though he frowns, the fifth grader shakes his head.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: No… I-I’m okay, Okaasan.

There’s a careful study of her son’s features, but Hikaru nods and slowly rises to her feet. As she turns towards the camera, Minoru quickly stands up beside her, and the two bow in unison.

Hikaru Page: Koni’chiwa, mi’naa. Good evening, everyone. Welcome to Hikaru’s Haven on HYBRID rEvolution! Watashi no name Peiji Hikaru.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: Yamamoto-Pēji Minoru tomōshimasu! It’s been a long time, everybody!

Hikaru Page: Hai! My son is co-hosting with me for this special event, the second HYBRID rEvolution pay-per-view, Best Served Cold. As you may or may not know, tonight, we have two guests in the Haven.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: Please welcome the Owner and Chief Executive Officer, as well as the Chief Security Officer, Misutā Aroishiusu Mākasu Vu~ansu IV to Misutā Torenton Mitcheru!

As they enter the Haven, Aloysius nods politely, offering a smile to mother and son. Trenton, while not standoffish, per se, simply nods. Perhaps he’s still feeling the rush of his match earlier in the evening? Regardless, AMV is the only one to speak up.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: A pleasure, Mrs. Page. Thank you for having us. I do ask that you excuse my friend if he isn’t too… talkative.

An explanation seems to be forthcoming, but a glance from AMV to Trenton seems to indicate that such wouldn’t be a very good idea. While Hikaru is accepting, her son’s curiosity draws his attention to Forge, looking up at him with shock and awe.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: Sugoi…!
{Wow…!}

For the briefest of moments, a half-smile forms on Forge’s face, but it’s gone almost as soon as it’s seen. The Hostess of the Haven giggles softly while everyone else takes their seats. She raises the teapot in her hands and gestures to their guests.

Hikaru Page: Thank you for joining us. Would either of you like something to drink? Tonight, we have peach blossom tea and Fiji water.

Trenton Mitchell: Water, please.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Tea would be lovely!

With a smile, Hikaru is pleased to serve her guests. A cup of tea for Aloysius; a bottle of water for Forge. Minoru nods and happily accepts the pouring of tea into his own cup. Finally, Hikaru serves herself before she sets the teapot down and sits down on the loveseat next to her son.

Hikaru Page: As per tradition, I like to ask new guests to the Haven about themselves. What brought you into the industry of professional wrestling?

Minoru looks between his mother and the gentlemen before taking a sip of his tea. AMV gives Forge a look over his tea and the big man shrugs, having yet to open his water. Turning back to Hikaru, the HYBRID CEO offers his response.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: After a little time in the business on his own, Trenton wanted a manager to take some of the unnecessary pressure off, and since we had worked together for some time, with me as his lawyer, it was an easy choice. When I found myself looking for, shall we say, a new challenge, I met with the former owner of HYBRID, whom you know very well, and purchased the name and library from him. The rest, as they say, is history.

Trenton’s response is to nod quietly. The time when he hired AMV was a very bad one, but nothing is said of that here. Hikaru nods and enjoys a sip of her tea. That’s when her son takes over.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: So… are you two childhood friends? Colleagues? Personal or business?

Surprisingly, Trenton deems this question as one he should answer.

Trenton Mitchell: In my previous line of work-

There’s definitely some bitterness in his tone there…

Trenton Mitchell: -Mr. Vance’s services were very necessary to maintain the status quo. He’s one of the few people I honestly respect and consider a friend anymore.

AMV himself looks a little surprised by the answer but nods in agreement. Even Hikaru is taken aback. Having drawn that out of Forge, Minoru smiles and enjoys his tea. Hikaru sets her cup down on the table and nods.

Hikaru Page: Some fans call it HYBRID 2.0. Misutā Vu~ansu, how do you feel about the company’s return?

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: No disrespect to the former owner, but there was a lot of potential left untouched. I consider myself a quick study and by reviewing what came before, and adding to that what I had learned working with Trenton here in Mile High Wrestling as well as elsewhere, I feel like we can make this iteration of HYBRID even better than the first. Talents like Duke Andrews bridge the gap between then and now, with new stars in the fold such as Jessie Robinson, Super Tiger, and Mikaela Callaway, as well as our top champion Eddy Todd, can lead us into the future. And with Trenton here at my side, making sure everything stays on the up and up? I’d say we have an excellent shot at becoming the preeminent company out there.

Trenton nods firmly at that, taking a sip of water.

Trenton Mitchell: I take my work seriously. Too many companies see their locker room running roughshod and getting away with murder. I don’t play that. Sneak attacks from non-contracted talents, borderline-criminal actions… crap like that? Not on my watch. And speaking of that?

He looks directly at the camera.

Trenton Mitchell: We’re gonna have words at Vanguard #14, Dixon. Do yourself a favor and don’t make me have to come looking for you.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Yes, #14 rather than #12 as, due to Mr. Dixon's wanton, injurous actions towards his opponents of late, he is officially suspended for a month. Without pay. But even with that being said, there’s no need to be threatening, old chum!

Trenton Mitchell: I don’t make threats; I teach lessons.

AMV still looks worried, but he’s not about to correct Trenton a second time. There’s a slight tremble from the Lotus Blossom.

Hikaru Page: Ano…

Her son, on the other hand, is enthusiastic about Forge’s response.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: Hai! We don’t like bullies!

Setting his cup of tea down, he lifts his right fist towards the CSO, hoping for a fist bump or something. Trenton can’t help but like the kid’s enthusiasm, so he gives him that fist bump before sitting back and having a drink. This time, the smile sticks around a little and while AMV looks worried, he also seems a little more relaxed.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Well… for what it’s worth, he’s right. Mr. Dixon and the two of us need to have a talk in two weeks. And, since he wants to do his damage in public as he did a little while ago, the world will get to see the consequences.

Mr. Vance doesn’t seem happy about it, but he’s going to do his job. While Hikaru quietly enjoys her tea, her son takes the lead interviewer role once again.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: What can we expect in the next cycle of HYBRID rEvolution, Vu~ansu-san? Are there any plans for the future?

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Well, our next pay-per-view after tonight is going to be Stormfront, which will take place in April, and we’re working on coming up with something special for that. In truth, we want something to look forward to at every pay-per-view. Tonight’s Seasons’ Beatings match was a good start, even if things got a little complicated…

Though he hardly seems bothered by that bit of drama; rather, he’s quite amused and eager about it.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: ...and on top of that, we have some new talent coming in, while some will no longer be with us. And, depending on how things pan out, we might even have a new championship incoming!

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: Sugoi! I’m looking forward to what comes next!

He bounces on the loveseat, though he can feel his mother’s eyes on him after a moment, which he stops and quietly picks up his cup of tea. Hikaru giggles for a brief moment before she regards Forge.

Hikaru Page: I’m sure I am not the only one who’s wondering… Why you, Misutā Fōji, were inside the ring earlier tonight?

Trenton Mitchell: Do you want a real answer to that, Mrs. Page?

Hikaru Page: H-hai…?

Suddenly, there’s a faint tremble. Nerves? Her son looks between the two. Getting her response, Trenton shrugs and sits back in his chair.

Trenton Mitchell: Because it was either beat someone up in the ring… or beat someone up on the street. The ring has fewer consequences. Call it… stress release.

Thing is, that’s not a joke at all. And from the way AMV is nodding? Yeah… A chill slowly crawls down Hikaru’s spine. Taking a sip of his tea, Minoru looks up.

Minoru Yamamoto-Page: Ano… Vu~ansu-san, is there any chance you’ll hire my Otōsan?

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: I don’t see why not! He has the talent to spare and it would be another link to help bring the new HYBRID into the future.

His answer draws excitement not only from Minoru, but Hikaru as well. It brings a smile to her face as she finishes the rest of her tea. Rising to her feet, she turns to the camera and politely bows her head.

Hikaru Page: Arigato, mi’naa. Thank you for joining us, everyone. Please enjoy the rest of Best Served Cold!

---

The scene opens on an overview of Atlanta, Georgia. It slowly zooms in until it finds a familiar fire-haired siren walking down the street. Katie Simmons has her hands in her pockets and wears a cocky smile on her face.

Katie Simmons: Atlanta is such a beautiful place… Too bad the people are shit… But that's beside the point! You see, Atlanta is a fun place! And it’s the perfect location for the absolute kaiju battle that is about to take place…

As she walks, the scene begins to flash a dark red. It’s too quick to see clearly, before returning to normal.

Katie Simmons: See, Damian and I have been dealing with a-

What she intends to say is drowned out by a deep, growling voice.

PEST

Katie Simmons: Mr. Duran has decided to dance with the devil in the pale moonlight. And he’s decided to make the devil well… WELL aware of that fact…

Her smile falls into a look of disdain, her lips twisting into a heavy sneer

Katie Simmons: Look, I understand people want to shoot their shots and whatever… But this man is like a little yipping dog. Just making noise and refusing to go away until someone notices him… Well congrats, Javy, you’ve been noticed. Unfortunately for you, though… You’ve been noticed by a-

The deep, growling voice from before roars over Katie again. The screen flashes red but is again too quick to see through it.

GOD

Katie giggles mischievously.

Katie Simmons: And no matter how big of a train wreck you are, it’s no match for that. There’s a reason why natural disasters are called acts of god, after all… Anyways! What I’m trying to say is that you’ve been picking a fight with the wrong man. Maybe your condition gives you some kind of false hope, I don’t know. But what I do know is that whatever you are, my husband is and more. There’s a reason why Damian is coming into the new year as the most dominant champion HYBRID has to offer. There’s a reason why wrestlers without a death wish are terrified to see their name across from his. Maybe you’ve taken more damage from all the abuse your body has taken than you realize.

She shrugs nonchalantly before giggling.

Katie Simmons: You won’t get any sympathy from me. Though I’m sure you don’t want it. And that’s why I like you, Javy! You’re a lot like my husband, fierce and independent, ready to take the world on his own! Only difference is that you’re too stupid to see a roaring fire and not swan dive right into it!

The Siren stops walking now. She puts a hand on her hip as she glares down the camera.

Katie Simmons: Damian is going to teach you not to play with fire, Javy. He’s prepared to beat that lesson over your head as many times as he needs for it to finally click for you. At Best Served Cold, you’re not going to feel it, but… at the same time, you will.

Suddenly the scene glitches red again. It flashes on screen until the scene settles on red full time now. The city around Katie is in shambles. The buildings have fallen into piles of rubble, the street under Katie’s high heels are cracked and destroyed with cars overturned. Despite all of this, The Siren doesn’t react at all.

Katie Simmons: After all, Mr. JMD… We’re all aware of your condition. You cannot feel pain. But ultimately that doesn’t matter.

She continues walking until she’s mere inches from the viewer.

Katie Simmons: Because dead men can’t feel either…

She licks her lips and lets out a small giggle as she gazes on while the scene fades out.


Inside the locker room of new Global Tag Team Champions, The Frontline, Harper Lee and Lluvia Cane were seen talking though one couldn’t tell what they were discussing. Jonna Austin was sitting a little ways away from them, a neutral expression on her face. For anyone that had watched, they would know that the Texas native was likely still healing some from her gruesome match at NFW’s WrestleWar, both physically and mentally after the betrayal of her twin sister. They would also know that this was the first match she had since that match as well as the fact that she hadn’t spoken much since that night. Admittedly, it seemed like she wasn’t paying attention to Lluvia or Harper, and the two women looked at her with concern for a few moments before Lluvia got to her feet and walked over to her friend and tag team partner. She squeezed Austin’s shoulder before sitting on her knees in front of her, trying to make the other woman look at her.

Lluvia Cane: JoJo…you with us, honey? I know you’re still dealing with stuff, and Lord help Jamie if I get my hands on her, but our focus needs to be on tonight. The Lost is getting their rematch for the tag titles, after all.

Jonna blinked a few times before nodding her head lightly and giving Lluvia a little smile. Harper made her way over to the pair of women just as Jonna gave Lluvia’s hand a grateful squeeze only for the woman to look up at Harper, a thankful smile on her face. The pair had texted Austin daily to check on her, and if she wouldn’t answer them then they had texted Felicia to see how Jonna was holding up.

Harper Lee: We know you’ve been through a lot lately, Jonna. We’re just worried about you is all…

Jonna Austin: I’m alright y’all, don’t worry. My focus is completely on us taking down The Lost. We took down Gino and Anton to win these titles, and we’re going to show them that this wasn’t a fluke. These titles are right where they belong, and they’re not going anywhere tonight but back home with us!

Harper and Lluvia grinned at the other woman with Lluvia nodding as she listened to her longtime friend. Harper looked between the two women for a moment before backing up briefly as the champions got to their feet. Both women were already changed into their gear with only taping their wrists left to go. Grabbing her phone, Harper took a picture of the two women finishing up their preparations, a small smile on her face as she did so.

Harper Lee: Those two boys won’t know what hit them by the time this match is over and done with. The Frontline is going to stay at the front of the tag team division for a while…I just know it.

Jonna Austin: We’re going to go out there and prove that we’re worthy champions…that we can lead this division to greatness with the right opportunities. And it starts tonight when we let Gino and Anton know that they’re not going anywhere with these titles.

The women finished taping their wrists and Lluvia walked back towards Jonna, a smirk on her face as she stuck her hand out to her partner and friend. They slapped their hands together and stayed like that for a moment, their arms locked as if they were about to start arm wrestling any second.

Lluvia Cane: No matter what, we’ve got each other’s backs. Tonight and every other night! Our first defense tonight, and when that’s under our belts, nothing is going to stop us! We’re going to put on a match that’s going to wipe the floor with some of the other matches.

Jonna nodded as a smirk came to her face as well as Lluvia’s face. The two women finally unlocked hands and nodded at each other. Harper came up between them and threw her arms around the back of their necks, partially hugging them while grinning the entire time.

Harper Lee: That’s my girls!! Now come on…let’s get y’all out there so you can kick some asses!

The trio laughed lightly before heading towards the locker room door. Lluvia and Jonna paused long enough to grab the Global Tag Team Championships, resting them on their shoulders before walking out of the door that Harper was holding open. As it closed behind them, the camera’s feed cut out, sending the view into darkness.



We move backstage where the cameras find Grace Savoy standing by with Mikaela Callaway. The young rookie stands in her full ring gear, ready to head out to the ring for her match.

Grace Savoy: Ladies and gentlemen, we’re moments away from crowning the new Iron Heart Champion. I’m here now with one of the contenders for that title, Mikaela Callaway. Now, Mikaela, you made your professional debut here in HYBRID on their re-opening. You’re one of the newest to the industry on this level. Tell me, how’s it feel to be competing for your first title?

Mikaela Callaway: Feels great, Grace. I mean, more often than not, it can take awhile before people get an opportunity like this. Me? I’m under a year into my professional career and I’m about to take that shot. I guess it’s true when they say talk is cheap and hard work pays off. Unlike some here, I’ve kept my mouth shut and been busting ass, whereas others wanna sit back and whine about what they think they deserve based on how long they’ve been around. Let me tell you this, flapping your gums and making demands doesn’t get you title opportunities. Hard work does. If career tenure mattered over career performance, the Cleveland Browns would have made it to a Super Bowl already. Take that information however you want.

Grace’s jaw almost drops and Mikaela just shrugs, raising her eyebrows. Grace moves on.

Grace Savoy: Point taken! Now, in this match, you’re stepping into the ring with an opponent that some might consider a first career rival, for you. What are your thoughts on facing Darcy Graves again?

Mikaela rubs her hands together and giggles.

Mikaela Callaway: Ah, man. Darcy, Darcy, Darcy…Darcy! I’m not gonna blow smoke, I respect your tenacity. I do. I may not like you but I can respect the fire you bring to the ring, but here’s the thing. You and me, we’ve had two matches already. We’re tied, 1-1. You got the first win with a handful of tights. Then, when I called you out over social media? You got chapped lips - and I don’t mean these…

She pauses in her words, motioning around her mouth. Again, Grace’s eyes go wide and Mikaela continues.

Mikaela Callaway: You attacked me backstage– Bitch, I was on my way to get something from catering and call my Dad and you jumped me like a coward. Then, Mr. Vance, gentleman that he is, let us settle up at Fall Of Man and what happened there? You found out, first hand, what a mistake it was to get on my bad side. I’m not a bad person, Darcy. I’m a good girl.

She grins, licks her teeth and lifts her eyebrows before her expression turns serious again.

Mikaela Callaway: But I am most definitely a bitch when it calls for it and you learned that the hard way. Tonight, Darcy? It’s you and me. Round 3. Final Round. I’m gonna Finish your ass.

Grace Savoy: Definitely a match we can’t wait to see. Now, Mikaela, as most people know, the Iron Heart Championship comes with that special privilege. A guaranteed shot, on demand, at the Global Heavyweight Championship. What’s going through your mind with the possibility of you winning that title, given that the current Global Heavyweight Champion is, well, your boyfriend, Eddy Todd?

Mikaela laughs, lacing her fingers together and rolling her wrists.

Mikaela Callaway: I know, I know. It’s the question that’s gonna be on everyone’s minds. “Will she cash in the Iron Heart Title on her Daddy? Will she stab him in the back? Will she betray him?”

Mikaela pauses, looks at the camera, deadpan and shakes her head.

Mikaela Callaway: Mm-mm. No. See, I’ve always thought bonuses like that were kinda shitty. Not that I question management’s decision on having that stipulation on the belt, but the problem there is it’s abused too often by people who wanna take shortcuts to put in the work. You know, self entitled pricks like Nathaniel Dixon who’d rather bitch, whine and complain about never winning a title. He bitched and moaned about not being added to this match because he saw an easy shortcut to a championship that only the best, hard working wrestlers deserve to hold. He’s the type of bitch to wait until after Eddy’s exhausted after a match and hits him from behind then cashes in right there. Sorry, Dixie boy. You’re gonna have to work for your meal. Hell, speaking of that, then you have Bianca Davis. The only reason she’s even in tonight’s main event is because she tucked tail to avoid having to defend the Iron Heart Title against Jessie. You know: the REAL Queen B. Queen Bean!

Grace Savoy: So you’re saying that as Iron Heart Champion, you wouldn’t take advantage of that cash in opportunity?

Mikaela tilts her head and a twisted grin crosses her face.

Mikaela Callaway: Oh, Gracie, I never said that. See, here’s the thing. It’s gonna take a goddamn miracle for someone like Bianca Davis to defeat someone of Eddy’s caliber. I used to watch the craft before I learned it. I’m familiar with you, Davis. I can’t remember a time where you won a match clean with no bullshit involved. That being said, that’s what makes you capable of miracles. Those shortcuts. You cut corners, you steal wins and then you hype yourself up like you worked so hard to get where you are. Honey, miss me with that bullshit. Now, I know Jessie’s in this match, too. It’s a triple threat. No disqualifications. All that good stuff. But, Davis, here’s the difference: Eddy and Jessie? They’re workers. Fighters. You’re a goddamn snake. So, I’m gonna contradict myself here when I say this: if I win the Iron Heart Title and you somehow manage to pull a fast one and steal that Global Heavyweight Championship tonight? You better kiss it as much as you can in the time it takes me to get from Gorilla to the ring, because that’s where I’m gonna be waiting. Remember that if you manage to win with a low blow or a finger in the eye or if one of your ass barnacles decides to spray something in someone’s face so you can roll them up. Little spoiled ass Veruca Salt might be able to steal the crown but she better watch out for the one with the Golden Ticket. Bitch.

Without missing a beat, Mikaela turns to Grace and smiles, waving with her fingers.

Mikaela Callaway: Thanks, Grace! Byyyyyyeeeeeee!!!!

She walks past Grace, headed towards Gorilla position, whistling “I’ve Got A Golden Ticket.”

Grace Savoy: Bernadette, Jacob, back to you!



We cut backstage to show Eddy Todd, HYBRID Global Heavyweight Champion. He is ready for his upcoming title defense, with said title draped over his shoulder. A chuckle and smirk precede his speech.

Eddy Todd: Well, well, well, Princess won herself a title. Not surprised in the slightest. With her holding the Iron Heart title, I can rest easier. I don’t have to worry about someone randomly deciding to call in a shot. You know, like a spoiled brat? Now all I have to do is what I do best. Go out there and defend my title.

Eddy adjusts the title.

Eddy Todd: Double the challengers means double the trouble. One of them one hundred percent belongs in this match. The other is a spoiled brat who is only here to avoid the other person in this match. That doesn’t mean I will be taking either person lightly. I’ve said before, I ain’t done with this title at all. Gonna take something major to take it from me.

Eddy lets out a sigh.

Eddy Todd: That isn’t taking anything away from you, Jessie. You’re a bundle of energy and talent. You deserve to be in this match. You were given an opportunity and you seized it with both hands. I want to see that same intensity tonight. I want that version of Jessie. Hungry for a title. You at your absolute best. Because if I do lose tonight, I wouldn’t mind it being to you.

A pause.

Eddy Todd: That being said, I ain’t going to be losing tonight. I won’t take it easy on you. I will be an example of what a true champion is. I will fight tooth and nail. I will give you one hundred percent, like a true challenger deserves. May the best one win, yeah?

Eddy strokes his beard slowly for a moment.

Eddy Todd: Now, Veruca, I know you think you’re hot shit. The best thing to happen to this business. Kiddo, I’ve seen plenty who think that way. Countless people who think that they are the end-all, be-all. The living legend that everyone will be talking about for years and decades to come. You know what happened to them? Yeah, they all didn’t amount to shit. They came and went and not many remember them. You’re just another in a long, endless line of self-important bitches.

Eddy scoffs and shakes his head.

Eddy Todd: I go into my matches all the same. Just another match. Just another defense. I treat everyone the same inside those ropes. Unless there is some long-standing animosity. If I’ve got problems with someone, then I am a different beast. It is less about business then. Tonight, Veruca, you get that side of the Beggar King. You get the man who called himself Death. A force of nature that will make you reconsider your entire life. I eagerly await the excuses you’ll be spouting off after you fail tonight.

Eddy straightens up slightly.

Eddy Todd: Tonight the Beggar King passes through another trial. Another threat to his throne. Tonight is not his time. Long Live the Beggar King!

Eddy gives a little wink. He then turns and heads toward the ring.

---

We open up backstage where we see the colorful hair of Jessie Robinson pacing back and forth. They're already dressed in their Tifa Lockheart cosplay, just without the wig right now as their multicolored hair bounces up and down. They continue to just pace back and forth down the hallway, head down, mumbling to themselves before they stop and reach onto a crate, grabbing a skull cap and covering their own hair before putting the black wig on over top of it and looking up and right at the camera.

Jessie Robinson: Tonight’s the biggest match of my career. If you would have asked me a month ago if I was gonna be fighting for the very top championship in HYBRID on their first big show of the new year, I would have said yinz were crazy. I never even imagined myself in this spot, let alone actually being here. I’ve been through so much in the last month.

Jessie sighs, leaning up against the wall, smiling a little bit.

Jessie Robinson: I haven’t been this hot shot rookie who came in, took the wrestling world by storm and got people talking about me. I’m far from that, but what I am, I am the person who showed up here in HYBRID on day one, showed the world that I’m a fighter and that nobody can keep me down. I showed the world that it doesn’t matter who you are or what you are, but everyone can be what they want to be and I fight on for those that are told they will never be anything, that they’re a freak, that they’re just a loser, all of those people, I fight for them…I fight for myself because I was one of them.

Jessie stands up straight once again as they look down at the ground.

Jessie Robinson: I honestly believed them for the longest time too. I never thought I’d be able to do something I always wanted. I never thought I’d have the chance to go out to the middle of wrestling ring and entertain and fight for thousands of people. A few people helped guide me to this dream…My aunt Issy, Uncle Andy, and most importantly, the best wrestler in the freaking world, Morgan Payne. She did so much for me in the early days when I was training at her dad’s school. She believed in me from day one and so did he because they both said they saw my heart and determination and that meant the world to me. I pushed myself every single day, always trying to do better and better and just loving it as I watched all the hard work paying off.

Tonight though, I have to go out there and fight like I’ve never fought before. Tonight isn’t going to be easy, but if anyone can pull off a miracle, it’s me. Eddie, you’re like an uncle to me. You’re super duper supportive, super duper awesome, and really, really tough, like tougher than anyone I have been in the ring with yet. I know you’re going to throw everything you have at me to keep your championship and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I wish it were just me and you fighting it out, fighting with honor and to truly find out who the better wrestler is, but we have someone else to deal with.

Jessie’s expression kind of turns a little bit, a little anger in their eyes.

Jessie Robinson: The fake Queen B, Bianca Davis. She’s been a big thorn in my side since the very beginning. She’s just such an awful human being and I don’t know how she even lives with herself with the way she acts and treats people. I’m so tired of it and I loved when I surprised her and everyone else a month ago when I showed back up to HYBRID and beat her Paris Hilton acting butt all over that ring and pinned her. It was the best moment of my short career so far. I never felt so amazing after and the sound of the people cheering so loud for me…it was the best. I will say, if I’m not going to walk out with the title around my waist, Bianca sure as heck isn’t. The REAL Queen B… Queen Bean, Jessie Robinson won’t allow it! She doesn’t deserve it… all she deserves is a kick to the head that might knock a little bit of kindness into her, but the chances of that aren’t very likely.

HYBRID people, I wanna hear you all scream and I want to fist bump each and every one of you and no matter what happens, you know I’ll just get back up and keep fighting.