*The scene opens to Lazarus standing with Ishmael in their locker room deep in a private discussion. As the camera draws near, Ishmael steps away as Lazarus turns towards the camera*
Lazarus: At Armageddon, I failed to come away victorious against two members of the Empire, and in turn, tasted defeat for the first time...leaving quite the bitter taste in my mouth. Unfortunately, for the Empire, I'm still standing. Regardless of who the Bloodzone Title belongs too, it will never be safe as long as I'm gunning for it. It is the stepping stone towards more prestigious gold and Pariah intends to wear gold here in UHW. For the time being, however, the Bloodzone Title will have to be placed on the back burner, for another challenge presents itself. A potential path towards the Tag Team Championships may already have arisen when I have the opportunity to face one half of the current champions at the next Bloodzone.
*Lazarus walks over to his locker where a calendar is hanging. He pulls out a red marker from his pocket, uncapping it, and marking off another day. He recaps the marker and tosses it into his locker before turning towards the camera once again.*
Lazarus: One more day. One more day until perhaps one of the biggest opportunities either Ishmael or myself have had in either run in UHW or its predecessor. And that's with Brian Kennedy. Call it fate, call it prayers answered, call it whatever you will. It doesn't matter if Clyde Wilson or Emily Desmond granted our wish to earn a shot at the titles or if Brian was in their ears about a potential match. The fact remains that the opportunity to come face to face with the leader of the Empire is here. The opportunity to show this company that Pariah deserves the chance to face the reigning Tag Team Champions. Yes it bears repeating because the importance of said opportunity should not be lost on anyone not even myself.
*Lazarus paces the room, contemplating the match. He finally stops beside a bench and takes a seat. Resting his elbows on his knees, he looks up towards the camera and continues.*
Lazarus: Kennedy, I'm certainly not going to be placing the cart before the horse going into this match. I do however keep playing the different scenarios that this match could potentially enact in the ring. I definitely won't let hubris sneak its way into guaranteeing an overwhelming victory. I know the road to victory will not be easy, but it is a viable one. If the numbers game plays any role in the outcome, I know it's going to be an extremely uphill battle. However, if this stays a one-on-one match, my confidence in my ability to overcome this battle is greatly increased. At Bloodzone, several questions will be answered. Can I overcome all that you have to throw at me and show that Pariah belongs in the discussion of some of the best in UHW? Can you prevent the rise of another nemesis to the Empire without using underhanded tactics or outside interference? I can guarantee one thing. Come Bloodzone, I will remind the UHW that Pariah is more than just an up-and-coming tag team, and I will remind the Empire that their reign is not as cemented as they might think.
*Lazarus stands and approaches the camera. Stating his final words clearly with intent.*
Lazarus: Brian, we're slated for the final match at this Bloodzone, and I intend to tear the house down. Ask any member of your Empire and they will tell you that I will not be a pushover. They will tell you how much of a fight you're going to have on your hands. Bring your A-game Mr. Kennedy, because you'll be getting nothing less from me.
*Lazarus turns and walks away as the camera pans back to the calendar on the locker. The camera zooms in on the date for Bloodzone which has been circled in red before fading to black.*
Its been a few days but, Brian is seen with his sledgehammer, still bloody from Leon and Benjamin. He smirks as he looks at the camera. He is wearing an Empire cut, t-shirt, torn jeans and some Timberland boots, and some Oakley sunglasses.
Brian: Lazarus, you don’t remember me do you? From back before when this was UWF? Back when you and you partner laid waste to me and left me out to dry? You two were supposed to have a tag match against myself and my partner at the time. His name is Andrew Paine. You two jumped me before the match could happen.
He pauses a moment to allow it all to sink in.
Yea, Lazarus, I’ve waited for a long time to get you in the ring. I’ve waited a very long time and when you chose to come back. That’s when I knew I had my chance. You’ve crossed The Empire in more than one time. While what you done to Anisa, that’s not why I asked for this match. You still have that one comin. This is retribution for the beating I took. I also have to thank you. You taught me a lesson that I took and The Empire was formed shortly after. I’ve over come every challenge since. Other than Bishop showing back up lookin for his last chance at glory, you’re the one that I have to beat. I have to make you my bitch and beat your ass all around the ring. I’ve already shown Bishop he isn’t on my level. Now its your turn.
He laughs an almost evil, twisted laugh. It’s border line manic. He composes himself.
Now, I watched what you had to say. And I must say, while you claimed you haven’t put the cart before the horse, that’s what you have done. You think in your head that you could for a second stand a chance at beating me. Let alone you and your partner beating Jessica and I. You see, we are the best damn Tag team in wrestling history. No other tag team on the planet are as decorated as we are. We have held not one but two sets of Tag Titles for twice as long as any other team has. We have defended those Titles against some of the best. Emily can attest.
He chuckles a moment.
And here you thought this was a stepping stone towards the Tag Titles. It’s pure revenge, and you wanna know what surprises me the most? Your not part of GWL this time. Why is that? Is it Bishop knows you two are more washed up than the biggest hack in wrestling? That would be Dean Tyler by the way. Or is it, just by a slim chance and you know what I already learned. Bishop doesn’t have the drive any more. He has lost it, I learned that when we squared off in our last match. And your about to learn this isn’t the same UHW that you left. It’s the Era of The Empire and there is nothing you can do about it. Many have tried. Many have failed, just like your about to do.
He takes his Oakleys off and stares into the camera.
Lazarus, I wanna make it crystal clear. You say you put the BloodZone title on the back burner. Allow me to shed some light on this bigger picture your lookin at. Dario holds the UHW BloodZone title, I hold the UHW Platinum Title and the SCW Alternative Championship. Add the UHW and SCW Tag Titles. I’m the most decorated Champion UHW has to offer. And you think for a moment you have a chance? I don’t need The Empire to win my matches. They only make sure the numbers are equal. That’s it. While your thinkin that you are some how gonna beat me. Then get a shot at any of our Titles. Think again. I believe your getting senile in your old age.
He pauses a moment.
Also, check the history books. The last faction or even Tag Team that rose and gave The Empire or even DEA any trouble at all. Well, that was Emily Desmond, her family and the Brewster clan. They failed every time they tried. I’d say more than 4 or 5 times. 3 were in a row. And they were 10 better than Pariah. So, does that make it clear enough for you? Talk about numbers. The number don’t lie. And they show that your way farther outta your realm than you thought. Yea, your right, we are slated for the final match on this Blood Zone. And while you have all these dreams and fantasies. The One Man Apocalypse is goin to show you. Mess with me and I will make you susufferI can’t wait till I hear my music hit. I’m ready, are you? Have you? You claim you have played out all the different Scenarios out in your head? Well have you played out the scenario where I come down that ramp and beat you about your head and shoulders, leaving you lay in a puddle of your own blood, while I stand victorious crushing every one of your hopes and dreams of ever coming close to touching any of The Empire’s Titles?
He puts his Oakleys back on now. He seems to be loosening up some.
Because that’s what fate has in store for you. See, I’ve learned a few things over my years in the business. And I hate to break it to you. Your not on my level. I’ve stated it and I repeat it just to make sure you understand. Much like yourself, you can ask anyone in that locker room. They will tell you don’t even waste your time. I know I’m coming for a fight. For some reason you you mistake me for someone that doesn’t like to fight. Or is afraid of getting their hands dirty. Personally, I love it. I love fightin. And for me to finally get my revenge on you. Well I usually say don’t take it personal. But, this time.
He pauses.
This time it’s very, very personal. But, it’s still good for business. See you in the ring at Blood Zone.
The scene fades to a Empire Logo as Brian starts laughing an almost manic laugh.
*The scene opens to Lazarus sitting beside a fire pit, light and shadow flickering around as the camera zooms in.*
Lazarus: Now, Brian, how could we ever forget the beating we gave you? You had been so silent on the subject that we were beginning suspect you were blocking out the memories because of the trauma or that we had beaten you so senseless you couldn't remember what happened. We left UWF so soon afterwards that we didn't get to relish in the aftermath, but it truly warms our hearts that we left such a long-lasting mark in the back of that demented mind of yours. Speaking of Andrew Paine, where was your wonderful partner while you were getting the beating of your life? Why didn't he come for either of us in response? Because he knew the same fate would await him as befell you, and he wanted no part of it.
*Lazarus snickers at the thought of Paine leaving Brian to the beating he took.*
Lazarus: It's funny you talk about crossing the Empire so much and still have it coming for what happened to Anisa. You stand there and rattle off how much you remember what happened when we beat your ass, but then you all allowed the lady to skip down to the ring into a beating of her own. I would say thats on her Daddy, Stalker, or because Creed failed to intervene, however, as the leader of the Empire, it's squarely on you. Be careful, my friend, retribution and revenge have ways of clouding your mind with rage and putting blinders on causing tunnel vision. Those would just be other excuses as to why you just couldn't get the job done this time around. And then how would that look to your precious Empire? Their fearless leader, humbled by a mere outcast who after all these years is simply still better than you. Be careful what you wish for, Brian, because sometimes you get way more than you bargained for.
*Lazarus stands and walks over to a pile of freshly cut wood. He grabs an arm load and carries it to the fire. Embers flicker into the air as he tosses each piece into the pit.*
Lazarus: You go on and on about your current accolades here in UHW and how we don't stand a chance against any of you. Do you really think we've become less dangerous than we were all those years ago? Need I remind you that as a tag team, we were undefeated in our previous run. No teams before were able to step up to Pariah. I'm sure you can claim Paine and yourself could have but you were too busy laid out on your back and he failed to have yours. And so far, the Empire's junior varsity team wasn't able to stand up to us either... and they were the supposed gatekeepers to the titles. Now granted, there have been some major flops when it comes to UHW signees and their lackluster performances only no longer to be heard from again, however, Pariah has not failed to be competitive in any of our matches. I would even wager to bet that without constant double teams during the Bloodzone title match, a one-on-one match would have had a different result. But I digress.
*Lazarus stands close to the pit warming himself to the cold air. An air of reminiscence can be heard in his voice now.*
Lazarus: I'm not going to speak for Bishop, but I have nothing but respect for GWL, and whether we're actively affiliated with them at the moment or not, the fact is they're still kicking around the tag team division. If it's numbers you want to look at, I'd happily have GWL behind us at anytime. They say necessity is the mother of invention, so if it's a necessity to bring another group together to battle the numbers in the Empire, then that'll be a necessary evil. You're beginning to stir something up that you're going to fail in your ability to contain it. Reigniting a fire in some competitors that you should have left dormant. Many may have tried and failed before, but the fact of the matter is that in this so-called Era of the Empire you have failed to put them down for good. Even more, you haven't even begun to eliminate the competition in Pariah.
*Lazarus sits back down beside the fire, staring intently into the flames, almost visualizing what could be.*
Lazarus: I see the bigger picture clear as day, Brian. So many championships in the hands of the Empire. You've made such a big name for yourself and accomplished so much. But don't forget, you've done it all in our absence. And if thinking I'm going to have my hands on one of them makes me delusional or senile, then I must be the craziest son of a bitch in UHW. Nobody in this company has given me a solid reason to think otherwise, and until you or anyone else can put me down for good, I'm going to keep coming for whatever gold I can, just like the rabid dog you remember from before.
*Lazarus returns his gaze to the camera. The reflection of the flames can be seen in his eyes.*
Lazarus: Now, the problem with history books is that they're well too often only written by the victors. On this hand, it's only your part of the story. On the other hand, if I were to listen to the locker room, I would only be hearing from those who failed and stopped fighting. Again, we have yet to fail as a tag team, nor will we stop fighting. It's the same song and dance with any empire. You're the best and the greatest until you're just...not. That's what real history books will show you, and pride always cometh before the fall. So right now, I want you full of pride and gunning for revenge and retribution because that's when your mistakes are going to be made. And that's when your precious Empire will start to crumble.
*The camera zooms in on Lazarus' face as he stands and approaches the camera.*
Lazarus: So, am I ready for a fight? You're damn right I am. I know this is going to be one hell of a brutal battle, with plenty of blood, sweat, and tears left staining the ring. But are you ready to be suplexed all over the ring and dropped on that thick skull of yours? It's not going to be enough just to leave you beaten to a pulp like before. This time I'm going to leave you a broken shell of a man. For me, this isn't personal. This is strictly for the sadistic enjoyment of given a beating to the UHW golden boy and knocking you off the pedestal on which you've placed yourself.
*Lazarus turns and takes his seat beside the fire. The camera zooms in on the flames until it fades to black.*
Brian is seen finishing up watching the promos from Bishop Eric and the Philly air raid. He’s also been paying attention to all the matches that’s been going on in the company ever since he won the platinum title again. He shakes his head and then goes back to the last promo that Lazarus done for their upcoming match. The main event, He rewatches that video and after it's done he stands up and walks in the other room. The room he has set up is the room that he shoots most of his promos in which is his office. He walks over to the section where above it is a nice plaque that says UWF on it. He stands there looking at the picture from where he first won the platinum title the very first time.
Lazarus, You claim that I stayed silent on the subject of you and the rest of GWL jumping me? Homeboy you left the company right after you guys done that, so how could I address something or someone when they’re not in the company any longer for me to address the two of you, what did you want me to show up at your house?
He laughs.
You want to try and ruin Andrew’s name. You all chose what night to jump me. Andrew was out of town. He has just signed the dotted line. And the Empire was born after that. UWF wasn’t it’s first home. That was and forever will be UCW. So don’t try to pump up how big and bad you are. You waited till there wasn’t any help for me. Just like some pussies. Not man enough to come one on one.
He shakes his head.
I’ll tell you what, you said you didn’t get to relish in the Aftermath? Well, let me give you the run down. The Empire came to UWF. Andrew, Requiem, Frostbite and myself. We destroyed what was left of GWL. I made Bishop retire from TWI. I went on a 10 year feud with Eric Herrera. Bryant McCoy left shortly there after. And you know why? Because at the end of the day, no matter how bad you try and deny it. I am the One Man Apocalypse. The living Legend.
He chuckle to himself at the pathetic attempt Lazarus made trying to play himself up and make himself seem more than he is. A nobody.
And about Anisa, yes, the blame falls on her dad. He allowed her to accept that match when we all warned her. And for you to say I allowed it? Son, you know I never allowed that shit. And as for Creed. He can speak for himself. On his time. No one is on your time. Just remember that. For the record. I knew I was banned from Ringside while your little friends took on Curtis. I didn’t show up to the Venue till after that all took place. And your damn lucky you had left before I arrived. You never knew it, but I been waiting to get my hands on you. And it’s got nothing to do with either of the Knight’s. This is personal.
He laughs at this second attempt to twist the truth.
I can’t answer why Stalker allowed that to go down. But that’s his business. You claim that your better than me? The only time you ever interacted with me was when Bishop was using you as his torpedo and had you jump me. That’s it, so how can you ever claim to be better than I am when you never once defeated me in a single match. While we are at it. You so called undefeated streak, what tag team worth a damn have you defeated in any form of UHW? Name one! I’ll wait. I just won’t hold my breath cause I don’t wanna pass out. Because the facts remain you haven’t done anything note worthy.
He pauses a moment before continuing.
You claim your dangerous, sir, I’ve taken shits harder than you. As for all I have achieved, yea I’m damn proud of it. I’ve been around the world and I am well known. You talk of streaks. I’ve only been beaten once in the last 4 years. And I’ve been active. Not hiding in my house like you have. I’ve taken on some of the best and I’ve defeated each and every one. Minus one person. And right this moment that person isn’t relevant. They are not in this match. This is between me and you. Your talk about The Empire is nothing but made up lies, we wasn’t formed until after your departure. You haven’t stood face to face with The Empire yet. And the boasting that you been doin leading up to this match. Well, your digging the grave for yourself. If this is the JV version of the Empire. You never got a chance to take on the Originals. Except myself, and Jessica. My Tag Team Partner and one half of the UHW and SCW Tag Team Champions. You see Lazarus, your asking for the beating and you shall get what you ask.
He sits down at his desk, taking out a jar and dumping some buds on it. As he starts breaking up his weed he continues.
See Lazarus, its about time for you to shut that trap of yours before you make yourself look more stupid than you already have. One claim I can make is this. Andrew and I won the Tag Titles and we held them u till the doors closed 3 years later. It’s in the history books. I don’t see your names anywhere in them. You might have taken out a few curtain jerkers, you might have jumped me with your partner and Bryant McCoy, but you haven’t done half of what I have done in my career. You couldn’t even begin to lace the boots. As for being the gate keepers to the Titles. I mean look at where we are. And where you wanna be. We have myself. The current UHW Platinum Champion, current SCW Alternative Champion, one half of the current and longest reigning World Tag Team Champion in two companies. UHW and SCW. Having two Title matches in NEW their World and Cyber Titles. All this stuff in NEW I have achieved while you been roaming the UHW halls. So what have you done? Then we have Dario Arturo Cortez, our current Blood Zone Champion. And as for DEA, you can count Urakih, the current and longest reigning Radical Champion. And Jessica my tag partner who also holds the UHW Supreme Championship. And also the longest reigning Champion. And to finish that up. The current SCW World Heavyweight Champion. Again Lazarus what have you done? And that’s not to mention the other two Titles I am in the tournaments for. So saying we can’t stand up to you is nothing more than total and utter bullshit. Your talking out your ass as usual.
He laughs at the pathetic promo that Lazarus put out. Making himself the laughing stock of UHW.
Trying to make a claim that GWL is doing anything in the tag division. Well that’s the joke of the day. Bishop has already tasted defeat by my hands. And it was a one on one match. Just like when I won the Platinum title. You want to talk about bringing GWL together with you. In hopes of defeating The Empire. Well he’ll. Maybe this time with your help you guys could begin to lace our boots. Because once I beat you like the worthless, washed up hack that you are. All competition will be gone. Because I am gonna beat it outta you. The main reason Creed hadn’t handled you as of yet is because of me. You can thank me later. I didn’t want any excuse as to why you lose this match. I wanted you fresh, it’s time you learned your place in this company.
He pauses for a moment.
You see Lazarus, you will hear that anyone that’s stepped up to The Empire has failed miserably. And the reason they didn’t fight any more is because they knew that history repeats itself. We are rewriting history. Our Empire will never crumble. Do you know what the definition of insanity is? It’s trying to repeat the same thing over and over again with the same result. You wanted my full attention. Well son, you got it. And your claim that nobody can or will put you in your rightful place. Looking up at the top of the mountain. Is about to crumble just like your hopes of ever beating DEA for the Tag Titles. Get in line son, it goes down the street and around the corner. We just made an open challenge. How come you and your brother never stepped up?
He pauses.
You want to claim you want a shot and can take those tag titles. Why didn’t you make a peep? It’s simple. Your scared. Nothings on the line in this match. After I take your pride nothings left. And what makes this even more pathetic. All this tough talk and there was nothing but crickets chirping. Not a single team took us up on our offer to challenge us for the Titles. So before you make claims that your itching for a shot. Remember you were offered and refused. Simply because you know without a shadow of a doubt. You can’t get the job done. I back my talk. Will you?
He rolls the blunt, as silence looms the room. As he lights his blunt.
Just like this blunt. Your gonna get smoked. Keep that same energy when you hit the ring. Be ready to back all that tough talk. I wanna see what happens now. I’m not the same green shoed rookie just landing in the big times. I came and made it my bitch. But, don’t take it personal. It’s just damn good business.
He takes a huge hit. Blowing it towards the camera as the scene fades to an Empire Logo.
Shoutbox
Bondic: Hey guys. Got this goin
Aug 7, 2022 15:42:17 GMT -7