Post by Deleted on Sept 3, 2013 21:08:11 GMT -5
"The Horror..The Horror..."
~ The dying words uttered by the central character, known as Kurtz, in Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness"
It's a cloudy, starless night in Montreal, and the air outside the apartment that's currently occupied by Shawn Cage has an oppressive, ominous feel to it. The air is warm and sticky, and it's heavy with the type of humidity that carries the promise of massive amounts of rainfall in the days to come...while never giving a precise indication of when, exactly, this is going to take place.
Shawn takes a deep gulp of the still, close air, and holds it inside his lungs for a long moment before releasing it in the form of an exasperated sigh. The weather's been like this for the past few days, and by now he is forced to admit that he's starting to get a bit sick of it. He wants the storm to break; he wants the sky overhead to open up, and pour down rain with all of its might.
Come on, he thinks to himself. Do your worst...
I can deal with the worst...
I just can't seem to deal with the prospect of waiting for the worst to happen right now.
Shawn lets out a bitter chuckle as he reclines upon the leather sofa that is situated in the middle of his unlit living room. He's come to realize that he's not simply waiting for the weather to do its worst at the moment, and that fact becomes more and more apparent as he stares blankly at the series of shadows that flicker across the walls of the room.
The Canadian Controversy takes a moment to study the shapes that are flickering in front of him; maybe it's due to lack of sleep, or, perhaps it's due to his increased stressed levels, but it seems to him that at this moment, these shadows resemble the silhouettes of two individuals with whom he is all too acquainted.
It seems to him that he can discern the shape of his former manager Kassie Khane, staring down at him, and mouthing the word "World Champion" over and over and over again. Shawn feels his stomach drop, because, as much as he enjoyed being a twenty one time World Champion in his career, it was never good enough for Kassie and as much as he desperately wants to make her happy by assuming that role as the top figure of the Canadian X, and climbing back to that number one position he held in the past, it simply isn't an option, right now.
If Kassie was actually present in this apartment, then Shawn would tell her that there was too damned much that has happened during the course of the past few years that he has stepped outside of the ring to allow him to assume that role. He would watch as her eyes began to glisten with unshed tears, and plead with her to understand that there is a much different role that he needs to assume...
The thing is... Kassie isn't here at the moment.
Right now, Shawn appears to be at the mercy of the man that he's scheduled to face at The BC Legacy Tour Week # 1, a man who has nearly the same impressive track record as Shawn Cage. But at the same time, a complete unknown to Shawn. Someone that he knew nothing about, only the information that the Canadian X roster bio page had given him.
Shawn blinks as the shadow on the wall begins to morph into the shape of Joey Edwards, and, from his vantage point, it appears to the Canadian Controversy that Joey's shade is tossing back his head, and laughing at him in mocking fashion.
In a sense, that's understandable, everyone seems to be cocky and think they have what it takes to knock off the Canadian Controversy, a person who has been undefeated since retirement, riding a 52-0 winning streak before a injury ended his career, so the doctors had originally thought.
Everyone is waiting anxiously to see what will happen in the match...
And the Canadian Controversy is waiting most anxiously of all.
In much the same manner that he is transfixed by the silhouette of Joey that is looming over him on the wall, he is waiting to see just how low Joey will sink in order to gain a mental edge over his nemesis, if he even bothers to show up and cut a promo at all.
And, in an odd, watching-an-automobile-accident-unfold-before-your-eyes kind of way, Shawn is interested to see JUST what Joey is going to do this week.
In truth, he's been watching some tape on Joey Edwards, watching everything unfold with the same type of morbid curiosity that he's feeling at the moment. Yet at the same time, he is still unsure about this former fifth teen time World Champion.
For, when Joey entered the federation with the type of pomp, pageantry, and fanfare that is normally reserved for exiled monarchs who have come back to reclaim the throne that he had held in the past, the Canadian Controversy watched with detached amusement, and smiled inwardly as members of the internet wrestling community tumbled over themselves to lavish praise upon Edwards, and to proclaim him as the new standard bearer of the Canadian X. Or maybe Shawn has just taken too many blows to the head in his career that he imagined all that praise. Time will tell if Joey Edwards is able to live up to the reputation that has preceded him.
Shawn assumed that many of Edwards's past accomplishments were just as much a product of backstage machinations as anything else, and that Joey's road back to glory wouldn't be nearly as easy as the one that he traveled so far.
It's apparent to Shawn- as it should be to any individual with an IQ above average room temperature level- that these setbacks can no longer be dismissed as the "unfortunate" result of ring rust, or ill fortune. These losses are indicative of something greater... a career implosion that rivals the likes of Brittany Spears.
By now, everyone is starting to realize that Joey Fucking Edwards is no longer the Once and Future King that the wrestling community considered him to be. He's simply another would-be emperor who is parading around the federation without a thread of royal clothing on his person.
Still, Shawn knows that the Hair Ball Sack Looking Face that he'll be facing this week is just as aware of this fact as he is, and that he's willing to do whatever it takes to regain the lofty position that he had held...
Up to, and including, the possibility of forcing his bitch to disrobe before him and then smacking her around with a rubber chicken or whatever else he could find, since the man was man enough to fuck her. Assuming that Mr. Edwards has a female figure in his life, if not.. Maybe that is where all that pent up aggression is coming from?
Shawn squeezes his eyelids shut in order to rid himself of that extremely unpleasant thought of Joey having a Rubber Chicken for a penis. But, in doing so, he puts himself in the same position that he's found himself throughout the course of the past few weeks... staring directly at a cloud of inky black fog that is rolling toward him. The Canadian Controversy shakes his head, and lets out a heavy sigh, for he knows what's going to happen next...
Sure enough, Shawn opened his eyes and watches as the cloud gradually coalesce into the blurred, smoky reflection of his own body, the same way that it always does, and sure enough, this reflection stares at him through those same cold, expressionless eyes, and addresses him in the same even tone of voice that it always uses...
And, sure enough, it asks him the same fucking question as always...a question that he REALLY doesn't feel like answering at the moment...
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn?"
Shawn Cage: (whispering under his breath) Not now.
Shawn is getting very sick of the question that he keeps asking of himself. He knows very well that he's going to have to give his response, and he's all too aware of what that response is going to be, but he also knows that there may be severe repercussions associated with the decision that he's going to have to make...
And, Shawn Cage isn't at all certain if he's prepared to deal with those consequences. At least, not just yet.
The reflection simply stares at him silently through those impassive eyes for a few seconds, and then repeats the question for what seems like the millionth time.
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn?"
This time, Shawn decides to answer this question with one of his own...
Shawn Cage: What the fuck do you want!?
The reflection just continues to stare at Shawn, not giving any indication that it heard the question.
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who..."
Shawn Cage: ANSWER THE FUCKING QUESTION!!!
WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU WANT!?
Shawn feels his chest heaving up and down as he begins to breathe the stale, humid air in his apartment into his lungs with deep gulps. He opens his eyes, but it seems to him as though he can't escape the vision that has plagued his dreams for so many weeks, because he still sees the blurred reflection staring silently at him, and then hears its voice echoing in the back of his mind.
" You NEED to make everyone understand who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn...
There is NO other way..."
Shawn is about issue a rather unpleasant response when he's interrupted by the sound of the apartment buzzer beeping and the sound of his cell phone ringing.
Hoping like hell that it is some MILF that has somehow managed to extricate herself from the clutches of Mr. Pencil Dick, her husband, and is calling to assure him that everything is all right, Shawn quickly fumbles for the phone, and answers it with more than a little excitement.
Shawn Cage: Hey, are you my hot date for the night?!?!?!
Money: No... I'm afraid not, Shawn... Sorry.
The Canadian Controversy can't help but let out a disappointed sigh, but takes a quick breath to collect himself as he addresses his friend, Teddy Money.
Shawn Cage: No worries, Money. It's just... just...
Money: I know, Shawn. I know. How are you making out?
Shawn Cage: (with a bitter chuckle) How do you think?
Money: Want to talk about it? I... I really think you should...
Shawn Cage: Sure... I'm not going to be getting any sleep, anyway.
Money: Um...Shawn? There's someone here with me... and...
Shawn hears a low-pitched voice mutter "Just give me the damned phone, Money", and shakes his head as he instantly recognizes its gruff tone.
The owner of this voice happens to be none other than Chris Talon, his former tag team partner... and a man who is all too familiar with the version of Shawn Cage that hasn't been seen inside the ring for quite some time.
More so than anyone, Chris Talon has an idea of who Shawn Cage really is... and, he's probably even more comfortable with that individual than anyone else on the planet- Shawn included. On more than one occasion, Talon has attempted, with varying degrees of success, to convince Shawn to assume this particular identity with greater and greater frequency.
Something tells Shawn that Talon is here for this reason.
And, as much as it scares him, it occurs to Shawn that he just might be right to do so, on this occasion.
Talon: We gotta talk, man. And, we gotta talk right now.
Shawn Cage: Yeah... I know.
Talon: So... what are you waiting for, Shawn?
Shawn utters the words "come on up" into the phone, and then buzzes the pair in.
The Canadian Controversy then blinks as he turns on the living room light, and then forces himself to get off the coach, and make some coffee; just as he finishes making the pot, and pouring three cups out for himself and his soon-to-be-guests, the sound of knocking can be heard at his door. Taking a deep breath, the Canadian Controversy steps back into the living room and calls out to the men standing just outside his entrance.
Shawn Cage: It's open, guys
The Canadian Controversy leans back against the living room wall, and suppresses the urge to shake his head as he watches the two enter his apartment.
Chris Talon still looks to be every bit of the ebony-skinned, shaven-skulled shit-kicker that he was during the time that he competed inside the squared circle. He's still got the same sleek, muscular physique, and he still looks ready, willing, and more than capable of tearing the limbs out of the sockets of those individuals who are foolish enough to cross him, he did make Bobby Lashley look like a scared little school yard bitch and he makes Brock Lesner look like a school girl who just pissed their panties.
In contrast, Teddy Money looks even worse than he did in the few short weeks since the last time Shawn talked to him in person. He skin looks even more jaundiced, his complexion even more pallid, and his eyes are bloodshot and watery... registering equal measures of concern, sadness, and resignation to his fate, that or he is losing money on something.. somewhere...
Shawn nods his greeting to them, and, as he hands them the cups of coffee, spends a moment silently wondering which sight makes him feel more uncomfortable at the moment. Eventually, the Canadian Controversy decides that even though Money looks truly god-awful, it's still easier to deal with the sight of this than the baleful, coal-eyed stare that Talon is currently leveling in his direction.
So, with that in mind, Shawn keeps his eyes focused upon the sad-faced old man seated in front of him and tries to break the awkward silence that has descended over the room with a seemingly innocuous comment..
Shawn Cage: So, Money...been to Freeman's lately?
Money: Yeah, a couple of times.
Shawn Cage: How's the gang?
Money: They're... they're worried about you, Shawn.
Everyone is worried about you.
This time, Shawn doesn't bother to suppress the urge to shake his head.
Shawn Cage: Tell them I'll be OK, Money. Tell them... tell them...
Money: (looking exasperated) Tell them what, Shawn!?
Should I tell them that you've been holed up in this apartment for the past few months, without saying so much as a word to anyone about what's going on inside your head?
Should I tell them that the man I see standing before me looks to be as scared and as confused as I've ever seen him?
Is that what I should tell them, Shawn? Because, from where I'm standing, that seems to be the truth!
Shawn stares wide eyed for a moment, but, the deadly serious expression on Money's face, and the sudden glint of intensity in his eyes compels him to stifle any response that he might wish to make.
Money: (as his eyes soften) Look, Shawn... I know that you're worried sick about your return to the wrestling ring. God knows, you have every right to feel that way, but if anything, it's ring rust you need to worry about and not rather or not your career will be a failure or rather or not your legacy will be tarnished...
Shawn Cage: (letting out a sigh) Yeah... I do know that, Money. I really do.
It's not my legacy that I'm worried about, Money.
It's... It's...
Money: It's what, Shawn?
Shawn opens his mouth to respond, but Chris Talon chooses that moment to make his presence known by interrupting with his own opinion on the matter.
Talon: I'll tell you what it is, Money.
It's the fact that this situation that our friend finds himself in, as well as some other events that have taken place in his life during the course of recent weeks, have caused him to realize that the person that he thought he was isn't the person that he should be.
Am I not right, Shawn?
The Canadian Controversy feels his blood begin to boil, and his face flush with anger as he regards the sight of his old running buddy staring at him with a cold, disdainful expression on his face.
Right now, he's like to do nothing more than to propel one of his fists into that face.. if only to express how frustrated he was that his old friend has been able to so accurately assess his mindset, despite not having seen him for months and months.
Instead, Shawn simply limits his reaction to a slight shake of the head, and a slight chuckle as he breaks out into a not-very-friendly grin.
Shawn Cage: I was wondering how long it would take for you to include yourself in this conversation, Talon... and to regurgitate the same nonsense that you've been spouting for years.
Talon: (returning the unpleasant smile with one of his own) Well, someone has to be the one to tell you the truth, Shawn. Might as well be me.
*Voice drops to a low whisper*
And, this time, I will make you see the truth, my friend.
For, while the truth may well piss you off, I really do believe that it's the only way to set you free.
Shawn Cage: Talon, as always, your desire to "set me free" moves me... but, I think that I'm more than capable of defeating Joey Edwards without your assistance.
After all, I don't have a doubt in my mind that I can't defeat him, I am not even worried about what he may or may not have to say about this match coming up.
So, I think I've got this covered, Talon. I really do.
Shawn watches Talon consider those words for a moment, and then shake his head.
Talon: You know, Shawn. I'd like to believe you.
I really, really would.
I mean, I'll be the first to admit that you've come a long, long way from the scrawny kid that I knew so many years ago.
You're certainly not the same scrawny kid who generally had to rely upon the strategy of battering his opponent's fists against his face in order to have any prayer of wearing them out gaining the victory. You're not the same guy who was only to happy to subsist upon Rice, Ramen noodles, and the occasional value meal at McDonald’s.
Indeed, you've gained a considerable amount of wisdom, and skill, and confidence, and prestige during that time. You've gained the right to call yourself the new standard-bearer of the Canadian X, the distinction of being its very best that they will have to offer, and the accolades that go along with it.
*smiles slightly*
Hell, your ugly ass has even managed to gain the attention of the adult film industry, and you had a successful career in that while you were away from the ring, you even had the undying devotion of a drop-dead-gorgeous supermodel.
Yeah, Shawn... you've gained a hell of a lot...
But, I still maintain that you seem to have lost something in the process...
Shawn Cage: (smirking) Is this where you break out into the chorus of "Eye of the Tiger", Talon? Because I've heard you attempt to sing and it isn’t-
Shawn watches Talon spring to his feet in an instant, and position himself so that the two are standing nose to nose.
Talon: For fuck's sake, man... LISTEN to me!!!
The Shawn Cage that I remember wouldn't be in this position... waiting to react to whatever that Joey had in store for him! He wouldn't be spending his days in a state of hellish introspection, and stinking to high heaven of quiet desperation!
No... the Shawn Cage that I know... the real Shawn Cage, wouldn't be here, at the moment. He'd be making damned good and certain that his opponent knew exactly who he was, and what he was capable of doing with the passion and anger he always had.
Tell me that Shawn Cage still exists, Shawn!
Tell that that, so that I can set him fucking free!
Shawn Cage: Get out of my face, Talon...
Talon: No, I'm in your face, Shawn, and I shall remain there until such time as the point that I'm trying to make seeps in through your thick fucking skull!
Shawn, it's time to face facts...
Joey Edwards holds your fate in his hands, he holds your chance of ever making it bigger in this company, he is holding the cards to your success and what you hope to achieve in this company.
And, at worst...
Shawn feels himself quivering with rage, and his chest start to heave.
Shawn Cage: Talon... stop it.
Talon: No... I will not stop!
It's time for you to consider the ramifications of what will happen, and to deal with the necessary consequences, so that you can make the right choice to address the situation...
The only choice...
Shawn feels a low, guttural growl tear itself from the throat as visions of the worst case scenario flood into his mind. He closes his eyes, but those visions continue to flash in front him, and all the while, he hears that voice of Shawn Cage asking the same question over and over.
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn?"
Shawn knows that it IS just about time, but...
Shawn Cage: I... I don't know...
Talon: What are you waiting for, man!?
Why are you so scared?
Shawn Cage: The Shawn Cage you knew fucked up a lot of lives, Talon...
Talon: And, despite what people have been led to believe, the lives that you and I fucked up when we were teaming deserved to be fucked up!
Shawn, do you remember the time when we were wrestling in Real Atlantic Wrestling, and found out that one of our opponents had taken... liberties... violent liberties... with a young female fan? Do you remember what we did to him during the match... do you remember what you did to him after the match?
Shawn Cage: I remember what we did all too well, Talon...
Money: (staring wide-eyed at the two) What... what did you two do?
Talon: We beat the living fuck out of him... We beat that motherfucker until he was bleeding from every single orifice in his body, and then we beat him some more.
And then, when all was said and done, I made certain that the RAPIST that we had just beaten would be in NO position to hurt anyone else ever again, by delivering the best fucking pile driver that I've ever seen from the top rope to the arena floor, breaking his fucking neck and ending his career..
No, that bastard cannot rape again, because he was turned into a quadriplegic in that moment... and I don't think that it could have happened to a nicer guy.
Money: JESUS CHRIST!!!
Shawn Cage: ...There were others, too...
Talon: Yeah, I still maintain that they deserved the treatment that they received, too.
And, honestly, Shawn... do you think that Joey Edwards is any less deserving of it than any of those assholes?
The man oozes entitlement, and lacks the ability to view anyone as anything more than pawns to be manipulated in his stupid little games. He hasn't even opened his mouth yet, but you can look at him and see it.
Plus, there's the minor little fact that he, for all intents and purposes, deserves a brutal beating
Do you really think that he deserves anything less than the full extent of the punishment that I know that you're capable of inflicted upon his person?
Shawn Cage: (shaking his head) Probably not...
Talon: Then, you're finally beginning to understand what I'm trying to say...aren't you?
Shawn Cage: I think so...It's just...just... I am worried people might not understand. People want me to be that savior of the business again.. And I don't think Superman can wear the cape anymore, it's time to pass the torch.
I... I don't know how they'll react...
Canadian X hasn't really seen that facet of my personality... and... and...
Money: Shawn, Valour isn't stupid, I'm sure he studied your past before he asked you to come out of retirement for this tour.
Talon: He'll at least try to understand...
It's time that he understands that, right now; Canadian X doesn't need a Savior...
It needs a DESTROYER.
And that destroyer is you, Shawn, That destroyer is you..
Shawn hears the voice of Shawn Cage asking the same question that he's been asking himself over and over again, and hears it growing louder and louder. Pretty soon, that voice is going to be all he hears, but, he stares at Money, just to confirm that this really IS the only approach that he can take...
Money: If... if there were any other way, then I wouldn't have called Talon, and asked him to come down to talk to you. But.. .but I think we all knew that this was coming, didn't we?
Shawn feels himself nodding dumbly in response and lets out a heavy sigh. He turns his attention to Talon, whose features have softened slightly as he lays a hand on his shoulder.
Talon: You NEED to make everyone understand who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn...
There is...
Shawn Cage: No other way..."
The Canadian Controversy listens to the sound of the voice that utters these words; the voice is distant... hollow... devoid of any trace of emotion save for the certainty that he understands now who he is, and the task that must be completed in the days to come.
The voice that he hears is that of Shawn Cage...
His TRUE voice.
And, speaking with his true voice, he addresses the two men standing wide-eyed in front of him.
Shawn Cage: The time for waiting is at an end...
It is time that Joey Edwards understands that there is a price to be paid for standing in my way, and to, quite probably, treat everyone in a manner that could best be described as sub-human.
Rest assured, my friends, the fate that Joey Edwards suffers at The BC Legacy Tour Week # 1 will be considerably less pleasant than that of Miley Cryus giving a blowjob and then twerking and bouncing on that dick afterwards.
For, I believe that it is time that this federation be purged of a man that carries the viruses of entitlement, arrogance, and hypocrisy within his person... and is only too willing to contaminate anyone who comes into contact with him, without any regard for their well being.
It is time that Joey Edwards learns that his time in the sun has come and gone, and that the shroud of darkness must soon descend upon him... in the same manner that it descends upon everyone in the end.
And, most importantly, it is time that Joey Edwards finds out just what I am capable of doing to those who incur my wrath..
As he speaks, Shawn Cage begins to hurriedly toss some clothing into a gym bag, and quickly slams down the remainder of his coffee before making his way toward the exit.
Money: Wait, Shawn... Shawn Cage... where are you going?
Shawn Cage: I am going to give Joey an indication of who Shawn Cage really is, Money. Do the two of you wish to join me?
Shawn Cage watches Talon and Money exchange uncertain stares for a moment; Talon breaks out into a wide smile, while Money gives a bemused shrug.
Money: What the hell... this should be interesting, to say the least.
Talon: Most definitely. And I am not going to miss this for the world.
Shawn Cage smiles slightly in response as he heads out the door, with his thoughts focused solely upon the task at hand.
It would seem as though he has come to terms with the darkness that exists within his heart...and, now, it is time for him to understand a bit about Joey's heart, too.
After all, at The BC Legacy Tour Week # 1, he SHALL be the one to tear Joey's heart out of his chest...
To ensure that it stops beating...
Once and for all
~ The dying words uttered by the central character, known as Kurtz, in Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness"
It's a cloudy, starless night in Montreal, and the air outside the apartment that's currently occupied by Shawn Cage has an oppressive, ominous feel to it. The air is warm and sticky, and it's heavy with the type of humidity that carries the promise of massive amounts of rainfall in the days to come...while never giving a precise indication of when, exactly, this is going to take place.
Shawn takes a deep gulp of the still, close air, and holds it inside his lungs for a long moment before releasing it in the form of an exasperated sigh. The weather's been like this for the past few days, and by now he is forced to admit that he's starting to get a bit sick of it. He wants the storm to break; he wants the sky overhead to open up, and pour down rain with all of its might.
Come on, he thinks to himself. Do your worst...
I can deal with the worst...
I just can't seem to deal with the prospect of waiting for the worst to happen right now.
Shawn lets out a bitter chuckle as he reclines upon the leather sofa that is situated in the middle of his unlit living room. He's come to realize that he's not simply waiting for the weather to do its worst at the moment, and that fact becomes more and more apparent as he stares blankly at the series of shadows that flicker across the walls of the room.
The Canadian Controversy takes a moment to study the shapes that are flickering in front of him; maybe it's due to lack of sleep, or, perhaps it's due to his increased stressed levels, but it seems to him that at this moment, these shadows resemble the silhouettes of two individuals with whom he is all too acquainted.
It seems to him that he can discern the shape of his former manager Kassie Khane, staring down at him, and mouthing the word "World Champion" over and over and over again. Shawn feels his stomach drop, because, as much as he enjoyed being a twenty one time World Champion in his career, it was never good enough for Kassie and as much as he desperately wants to make her happy by assuming that role as the top figure of the Canadian X, and climbing back to that number one position he held in the past, it simply isn't an option, right now.
If Kassie was actually present in this apartment, then Shawn would tell her that there was too damned much that has happened during the course of the past few years that he has stepped outside of the ring to allow him to assume that role. He would watch as her eyes began to glisten with unshed tears, and plead with her to understand that there is a much different role that he needs to assume...
The thing is... Kassie isn't here at the moment.
Right now, Shawn appears to be at the mercy of the man that he's scheduled to face at The BC Legacy Tour Week # 1, a man who has nearly the same impressive track record as Shawn Cage. But at the same time, a complete unknown to Shawn. Someone that he knew nothing about, only the information that the Canadian X roster bio page had given him.
Shawn blinks as the shadow on the wall begins to morph into the shape of Joey Edwards, and, from his vantage point, it appears to the Canadian Controversy that Joey's shade is tossing back his head, and laughing at him in mocking fashion.
In a sense, that's understandable, everyone seems to be cocky and think they have what it takes to knock off the Canadian Controversy, a person who has been undefeated since retirement, riding a 52-0 winning streak before a injury ended his career, so the doctors had originally thought.
Everyone is waiting anxiously to see what will happen in the match...
And the Canadian Controversy is waiting most anxiously of all.
In much the same manner that he is transfixed by the silhouette of Joey that is looming over him on the wall, he is waiting to see just how low Joey will sink in order to gain a mental edge over his nemesis, if he even bothers to show up and cut a promo at all.
And, in an odd, watching-an-automobile-accident-unfold-before-your-eyes kind of way, Shawn is interested to see JUST what Joey is going to do this week.
In truth, he's been watching some tape on Joey Edwards, watching everything unfold with the same type of morbid curiosity that he's feeling at the moment. Yet at the same time, he is still unsure about this former fifth teen time World Champion.
For, when Joey entered the federation with the type of pomp, pageantry, and fanfare that is normally reserved for exiled monarchs who have come back to reclaim the throne that he had held in the past, the Canadian Controversy watched with detached amusement, and smiled inwardly as members of the internet wrestling community tumbled over themselves to lavish praise upon Edwards, and to proclaim him as the new standard bearer of the Canadian X. Or maybe Shawn has just taken too many blows to the head in his career that he imagined all that praise. Time will tell if Joey Edwards is able to live up to the reputation that has preceded him.
Shawn assumed that many of Edwards's past accomplishments were just as much a product of backstage machinations as anything else, and that Joey's road back to glory wouldn't be nearly as easy as the one that he traveled so far.
It's apparent to Shawn- as it should be to any individual with an IQ above average room temperature level- that these setbacks can no longer be dismissed as the "unfortunate" result of ring rust, or ill fortune. These losses are indicative of something greater... a career implosion that rivals the likes of Brittany Spears.
By now, everyone is starting to realize that Joey Fucking Edwards is no longer the Once and Future King that the wrestling community considered him to be. He's simply another would-be emperor who is parading around the federation without a thread of royal clothing on his person.
Still, Shawn knows that the Hair Ball Sack Looking Face that he'll be facing this week is just as aware of this fact as he is, and that he's willing to do whatever it takes to regain the lofty position that he had held...
Up to, and including, the possibility of forcing his bitch to disrobe before him and then smacking her around with a rubber chicken or whatever else he could find, since the man was man enough to fuck her. Assuming that Mr. Edwards has a female figure in his life, if not.. Maybe that is where all that pent up aggression is coming from?
Shawn squeezes his eyelids shut in order to rid himself of that extremely unpleasant thought of Joey having a Rubber Chicken for a penis. But, in doing so, he puts himself in the same position that he's found himself throughout the course of the past few weeks... staring directly at a cloud of inky black fog that is rolling toward him. The Canadian Controversy shakes his head, and lets out a heavy sigh, for he knows what's going to happen next...
Sure enough, Shawn opened his eyes and watches as the cloud gradually coalesce into the blurred, smoky reflection of his own body, the same way that it always does, and sure enough, this reflection stares at him through those same cold, expressionless eyes, and addresses him in the same even tone of voice that it always uses...
And, sure enough, it asks him the same fucking question as always...a question that he REALLY doesn't feel like answering at the moment...
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn?"
Shawn Cage: (whispering under his breath) Not now.
Shawn is getting very sick of the question that he keeps asking of himself. He knows very well that he's going to have to give his response, and he's all too aware of what that response is going to be, but he also knows that there may be severe repercussions associated with the decision that he's going to have to make...
And, Shawn Cage isn't at all certain if he's prepared to deal with those consequences. At least, not just yet.
The reflection simply stares at him silently through those impassive eyes for a few seconds, and then repeats the question for what seems like the millionth time.
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn?"
This time, Shawn decides to answer this question with one of his own...
Shawn Cage: What the fuck do you want!?
The reflection just continues to stare at Shawn, not giving any indication that it heard the question.
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who..."
Shawn Cage: ANSWER THE FUCKING QUESTION!!!
WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU WANT!?
Shawn feels his chest heaving up and down as he begins to breathe the stale, humid air in his apartment into his lungs with deep gulps. He opens his eyes, but it seems to him as though he can't escape the vision that has plagued his dreams for so many weeks, because he still sees the blurred reflection staring silently at him, and then hears its voice echoing in the back of his mind.
" You NEED to make everyone understand who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn...
There is NO other way..."
Shawn is about issue a rather unpleasant response when he's interrupted by the sound of the apartment buzzer beeping and the sound of his cell phone ringing.
Hoping like hell that it is some MILF that has somehow managed to extricate herself from the clutches of Mr. Pencil Dick, her husband, and is calling to assure him that everything is all right, Shawn quickly fumbles for the phone, and answers it with more than a little excitement.
Shawn Cage: Hey, are you my hot date for the night?!?!?!
Money: No... I'm afraid not, Shawn... Sorry.
The Canadian Controversy can't help but let out a disappointed sigh, but takes a quick breath to collect himself as he addresses his friend, Teddy Money.
Shawn Cage: No worries, Money. It's just... just...
Money: I know, Shawn. I know. How are you making out?
Shawn Cage: (with a bitter chuckle) How do you think?
Money: Want to talk about it? I... I really think you should...
Shawn Cage: Sure... I'm not going to be getting any sleep, anyway.
Money: Um...Shawn? There's someone here with me... and...
Shawn hears a low-pitched voice mutter "Just give me the damned phone, Money", and shakes his head as he instantly recognizes its gruff tone.
The owner of this voice happens to be none other than Chris Talon, his former tag team partner... and a man who is all too familiar with the version of Shawn Cage that hasn't been seen inside the ring for quite some time.
More so than anyone, Chris Talon has an idea of who Shawn Cage really is... and, he's probably even more comfortable with that individual than anyone else on the planet- Shawn included. On more than one occasion, Talon has attempted, with varying degrees of success, to convince Shawn to assume this particular identity with greater and greater frequency.
Something tells Shawn that Talon is here for this reason.
And, as much as it scares him, it occurs to Shawn that he just might be right to do so, on this occasion.
Talon: We gotta talk, man. And, we gotta talk right now.
Shawn Cage: Yeah... I know.
Talon: So... what are you waiting for, Shawn?
Shawn utters the words "come on up" into the phone, and then buzzes the pair in.
The Canadian Controversy then blinks as he turns on the living room light, and then forces himself to get off the coach, and make some coffee; just as he finishes making the pot, and pouring three cups out for himself and his soon-to-be-guests, the sound of knocking can be heard at his door. Taking a deep breath, the Canadian Controversy steps back into the living room and calls out to the men standing just outside his entrance.
Shawn Cage: It's open, guys
The Canadian Controversy leans back against the living room wall, and suppresses the urge to shake his head as he watches the two enter his apartment.
Chris Talon still looks to be every bit of the ebony-skinned, shaven-skulled shit-kicker that he was during the time that he competed inside the squared circle. He's still got the same sleek, muscular physique, and he still looks ready, willing, and more than capable of tearing the limbs out of the sockets of those individuals who are foolish enough to cross him, he did make Bobby Lashley look like a scared little school yard bitch and he makes Brock Lesner look like a school girl who just pissed their panties.
In contrast, Teddy Money looks even worse than he did in the few short weeks since the last time Shawn talked to him in person. He skin looks even more jaundiced, his complexion even more pallid, and his eyes are bloodshot and watery... registering equal measures of concern, sadness, and resignation to his fate, that or he is losing money on something.. somewhere...
Shawn nods his greeting to them, and, as he hands them the cups of coffee, spends a moment silently wondering which sight makes him feel more uncomfortable at the moment. Eventually, the Canadian Controversy decides that even though Money looks truly god-awful, it's still easier to deal with the sight of this than the baleful, coal-eyed stare that Talon is currently leveling in his direction.
So, with that in mind, Shawn keeps his eyes focused upon the sad-faced old man seated in front of him and tries to break the awkward silence that has descended over the room with a seemingly innocuous comment..
Shawn Cage: So, Money...been to Freeman's lately?
Money: Yeah, a couple of times.
Shawn Cage: How's the gang?
Money: They're... they're worried about you, Shawn.
Everyone is worried about you.
This time, Shawn doesn't bother to suppress the urge to shake his head.
Shawn Cage: Tell them I'll be OK, Money. Tell them... tell them...
Money: (looking exasperated) Tell them what, Shawn!?
Should I tell them that you've been holed up in this apartment for the past few months, without saying so much as a word to anyone about what's going on inside your head?
Should I tell them that the man I see standing before me looks to be as scared and as confused as I've ever seen him?
Is that what I should tell them, Shawn? Because, from where I'm standing, that seems to be the truth!
Shawn stares wide eyed for a moment, but, the deadly serious expression on Money's face, and the sudden glint of intensity in his eyes compels him to stifle any response that he might wish to make.
Money: (as his eyes soften) Look, Shawn... I know that you're worried sick about your return to the wrestling ring. God knows, you have every right to feel that way, but if anything, it's ring rust you need to worry about and not rather or not your career will be a failure or rather or not your legacy will be tarnished...
Shawn Cage: (letting out a sigh) Yeah... I do know that, Money. I really do.
It's not my legacy that I'm worried about, Money.
It's... It's...
Money: It's what, Shawn?
Shawn opens his mouth to respond, but Chris Talon chooses that moment to make his presence known by interrupting with his own opinion on the matter.
Talon: I'll tell you what it is, Money.
It's the fact that this situation that our friend finds himself in, as well as some other events that have taken place in his life during the course of recent weeks, have caused him to realize that the person that he thought he was isn't the person that he should be.
Am I not right, Shawn?
The Canadian Controversy feels his blood begin to boil, and his face flush with anger as he regards the sight of his old running buddy staring at him with a cold, disdainful expression on his face.
Right now, he's like to do nothing more than to propel one of his fists into that face.. if only to express how frustrated he was that his old friend has been able to so accurately assess his mindset, despite not having seen him for months and months.
Instead, Shawn simply limits his reaction to a slight shake of the head, and a slight chuckle as he breaks out into a not-very-friendly grin.
Shawn Cage: I was wondering how long it would take for you to include yourself in this conversation, Talon... and to regurgitate the same nonsense that you've been spouting for years.
Talon: (returning the unpleasant smile with one of his own) Well, someone has to be the one to tell you the truth, Shawn. Might as well be me.
*Voice drops to a low whisper*
And, this time, I will make you see the truth, my friend.
For, while the truth may well piss you off, I really do believe that it's the only way to set you free.
Shawn Cage: Talon, as always, your desire to "set me free" moves me... but, I think that I'm more than capable of defeating Joey Edwards without your assistance.
After all, I don't have a doubt in my mind that I can't defeat him, I am not even worried about what he may or may not have to say about this match coming up.
So, I think I've got this covered, Talon. I really do.
Shawn watches Talon consider those words for a moment, and then shake his head.
Talon: You know, Shawn. I'd like to believe you.
I really, really would.
I mean, I'll be the first to admit that you've come a long, long way from the scrawny kid that I knew so many years ago.
You're certainly not the same scrawny kid who generally had to rely upon the strategy of battering his opponent's fists against his face in order to have any prayer of wearing them out gaining the victory. You're not the same guy who was only to happy to subsist upon Rice, Ramen noodles, and the occasional value meal at McDonald’s.
Indeed, you've gained a considerable amount of wisdom, and skill, and confidence, and prestige during that time. You've gained the right to call yourself the new standard-bearer of the Canadian X, the distinction of being its very best that they will have to offer, and the accolades that go along with it.
*smiles slightly*
Hell, your ugly ass has even managed to gain the attention of the adult film industry, and you had a successful career in that while you were away from the ring, you even had the undying devotion of a drop-dead-gorgeous supermodel.
Yeah, Shawn... you've gained a hell of a lot...
But, I still maintain that you seem to have lost something in the process...
Shawn Cage: (smirking) Is this where you break out into the chorus of "Eye of the Tiger", Talon? Because I've heard you attempt to sing and it isn’t-
Shawn watches Talon spring to his feet in an instant, and position himself so that the two are standing nose to nose.
Talon: For fuck's sake, man... LISTEN to me!!!
The Shawn Cage that I remember wouldn't be in this position... waiting to react to whatever that Joey had in store for him! He wouldn't be spending his days in a state of hellish introspection, and stinking to high heaven of quiet desperation!
No... the Shawn Cage that I know... the real Shawn Cage, wouldn't be here, at the moment. He'd be making damned good and certain that his opponent knew exactly who he was, and what he was capable of doing with the passion and anger he always had.
Tell me that Shawn Cage still exists, Shawn!
Tell that that, so that I can set him fucking free!
Shawn Cage: Get out of my face, Talon...
Talon: No, I'm in your face, Shawn, and I shall remain there until such time as the point that I'm trying to make seeps in through your thick fucking skull!
Shawn, it's time to face facts...
Joey Edwards holds your fate in his hands, he holds your chance of ever making it bigger in this company, he is holding the cards to your success and what you hope to achieve in this company.
And, at worst...
Shawn feels himself quivering with rage, and his chest start to heave.
Shawn Cage: Talon... stop it.
Talon: No... I will not stop!
It's time for you to consider the ramifications of what will happen, and to deal with the necessary consequences, so that you can make the right choice to address the situation...
The only choice...
Shawn feels a low, guttural growl tear itself from the throat as visions of the worst case scenario flood into his mind. He closes his eyes, but those visions continue to flash in front him, and all the while, he hears that voice of Shawn Cage asking the same question over and over.
"Don't you think that it's time that everyone understands who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn?"
Shawn knows that it IS just about time, but...
Shawn Cage: I... I don't know...
Talon: What are you waiting for, man!?
Why are you so scared?
Shawn Cage: The Shawn Cage you knew fucked up a lot of lives, Talon...
Talon: And, despite what people have been led to believe, the lives that you and I fucked up when we were teaming deserved to be fucked up!
Shawn, do you remember the time when we were wrestling in Real Atlantic Wrestling, and found out that one of our opponents had taken... liberties... violent liberties... with a young female fan? Do you remember what we did to him during the match... do you remember what you did to him after the match?
Shawn Cage: I remember what we did all too well, Talon...
Money: (staring wide-eyed at the two) What... what did you two do?
Talon: We beat the living fuck out of him... We beat that motherfucker until he was bleeding from every single orifice in his body, and then we beat him some more.
And then, when all was said and done, I made certain that the RAPIST that we had just beaten would be in NO position to hurt anyone else ever again, by delivering the best fucking pile driver that I've ever seen from the top rope to the arena floor, breaking his fucking neck and ending his career..
No, that bastard cannot rape again, because he was turned into a quadriplegic in that moment... and I don't think that it could have happened to a nicer guy.
Money: JESUS CHRIST!!!
Shawn Cage: ...There were others, too...
Talon: Yeah, I still maintain that they deserved the treatment that they received, too.
And, honestly, Shawn... do you think that Joey Edwards is any less deserving of it than any of those assholes?
The man oozes entitlement, and lacks the ability to view anyone as anything more than pawns to be manipulated in his stupid little games. He hasn't even opened his mouth yet, but you can look at him and see it.
Plus, there's the minor little fact that he, for all intents and purposes, deserves a brutal beating
Do you really think that he deserves anything less than the full extent of the punishment that I know that you're capable of inflicted upon his person?
Shawn Cage: (shaking his head) Probably not...
Talon: Then, you're finally beginning to understand what I'm trying to say...aren't you?
Shawn Cage: I think so...It's just...just... I am worried people might not understand. People want me to be that savior of the business again.. And I don't think Superman can wear the cape anymore, it's time to pass the torch.
I... I don't know how they'll react...
Canadian X hasn't really seen that facet of my personality... and... and...
Money: Shawn, Valour isn't stupid, I'm sure he studied your past before he asked you to come out of retirement for this tour.
Talon: He'll at least try to understand...
It's time that he understands that, right now; Canadian X doesn't need a Savior...
It needs a DESTROYER.
And that destroyer is you, Shawn, That destroyer is you..
Shawn hears the voice of Shawn Cage asking the same question that he's been asking himself over and over again, and hears it growing louder and louder. Pretty soon, that voice is going to be all he hears, but, he stares at Money, just to confirm that this really IS the only approach that he can take...
Money: If... if there were any other way, then I wouldn't have called Talon, and asked him to come down to talk to you. But.. .but I think we all knew that this was coming, didn't we?
Shawn feels himself nodding dumbly in response and lets out a heavy sigh. He turns his attention to Talon, whose features have softened slightly as he lays a hand on his shoulder.
Talon: You NEED to make everyone understand who Shawn Alexander Cage really is, Shawn...
There is...
Shawn Cage: No other way..."
The Canadian Controversy listens to the sound of the voice that utters these words; the voice is distant... hollow... devoid of any trace of emotion save for the certainty that he understands now who he is, and the task that must be completed in the days to come.
The voice that he hears is that of Shawn Cage...
His TRUE voice.
And, speaking with his true voice, he addresses the two men standing wide-eyed in front of him.
Shawn Cage: The time for waiting is at an end...
It is time that Joey Edwards understands that there is a price to be paid for standing in my way, and to, quite probably, treat everyone in a manner that could best be described as sub-human.
Rest assured, my friends, the fate that Joey Edwards suffers at The BC Legacy Tour Week # 1 will be considerably less pleasant than that of Miley Cryus giving a blowjob and then twerking and bouncing on that dick afterwards.
For, I believe that it is time that this federation be purged of a man that carries the viruses of entitlement, arrogance, and hypocrisy within his person... and is only too willing to contaminate anyone who comes into contact with him, without any regard for their well being.
It is time that Joey Edwards learns that his time in the sun has come and gone, and that the shroud of darkness must soon descend upon him... in the same manner that it descends upon everyone in the end.
And, most importantly, it is time that Joey Edwards finds out just what I am capable of doing to those who incur my wrath..
As he speaks, Shawn Cage begins to hurriedly toss some clothing into a gym bag, and quickly slams down the remainder of his coffee before making his way toward the exit.
Money: Wait, Shawn... Shawn Cage... where are you going?
Shawn Cage: I am going to give Joey an indication of who Shawn Cage really is, Money. Do the two of you wish to join me?
Shawn Cage watches Talon and Money exchange uncertain stares for a moment; Talon breaks out into a wide smile, while Money gives a bemused shrug.
Money: What the hell... this should be interesting, to say the least.
Talon: Most definitely. And I am not going to miss this for the world.
Shawn Cage smiles slightly in response as he heads out the door, with his thoughts focused solely upon the task at hand.
It would seem as though he has come to terms with the darkness that exists within his heart...and, now, it is time for him to understand a bit about Joey's heart, too.
After all, at The BC Legacy Tour Week # 1, he SHALL be the one to tear Joey's heart out of his chest...
To ensure that it stops beating...
Once and for all
