Post by Nick Watson on Aug 25, 2012 20:09:00 GMT -4
*Los Angeles, California*
*Present Day*
Things felt different for me today and I didn't know if it was because I had met Megan or that I felt like maybe I had some control in my future finally. The night before I had stayed up close to midnight talking with one of the most beautiful women that I had ever been around in my life and today I had a meeting with a man who was known as Paul McArthur, head of a moderately sized talent agency. It didn't get much better than this. Where as the day before my mind had been full of concerns, doubts, and fear, today I felt strongly that things were going to be different. That maybe, if this meeting went well, and everything worked out, I would finally have the help I needed to get the exposure I needed. After all, it was very hard to get what you needed if you had no experience in asking the right questions to get it, and hopefully Mr. McArthur would be the answer to my prayers. Maybe, just maybe I would finally have somebody looking out for me for a change.
Corey: So she just showed up at the bar, talked to you about her agency taking a liking to you, and then you spent the night drinking and enjoying yourself?
Nick: Yeah...can you pass me my tie? I want to look sharp going into this meeting.
Corey reached over to my bag and pulled out a blue tie, which he laid out into my outstretched hand, and then continued his line of questioning.
Corey: And you don't think it is a bit too convenient that she found you in that bar?
Nick: Not really, Corey, and that is because she was going into the bar to have a few drinks after her shift was over. You make it sound like I'm being stalked or something.
I snickered as I began to put on my tie. Corey was concerned, but then again when wasn't he concerned? I could understand to an extent what he was saying, but right now I was pretty high up in the clouds. A talent agency was interested in my talents, but that wasn't all that was interested me. That girl, Megan, was at well, and I couldn't help, but feel some kind of attraction to that girl. She was beautiful, smart, and brave, and I happened to find those three qualities to be high up on my lists of what I wanted in a girlfriend. Corey, was of course, not satisfied with me brushing him off like that, and would continue to show his concern.
Corey: What if this girl was sent to find you to make you want to sign with them?
Nick: Are we calling Megan a prostitute now?
Corey: No, but some times business executives higher voluptuous women to attract clients. Its' just how the business world works.
Nick: And you are claiming to be some kind of business officinato, eh? I mean if that were the case then why aren't you representing me?
Corey: Here you are joking around, but can't you see I'm concerned about all of this? Things like this just don't happen!
Nick: And why can't they happen, Corey? Maybe for once something good is happening in my life!
He looked at me in confusion, but I glared back at him with pure confidence. Its' not like life had been going my way over the past few months. I was still opening shows instead of closing them, I was still one of the athletes that had yet to receive a match that would prove his worth to APW, and I was still constantly being accosted by Michael Harris. It was not fair to a man such as me to have these problems. I had changed so much, worked so hard, and I deserved the same opportunities that everyone else was getting. Yet, here I was fighting against a man who wanted to injure me, and take my career away from me. Yet, I was boldly walking into the lion's den to defeat yet another monster before the APW masses, and more than likely the following week my accomplishment would be pushed under the rug again.
Nick: Look, I need something to go right for once. I need somebody who can help my career, Corey. I can't keep opening shows for the rest of my days. I need to do something worthy of attention and the only way to do that is through negotiation. If I could do it myself... I would, but I can't. I need this to go well, Corey.
Corey continued to look at me with concern for a few more moments before finally he nodded his head in agreement. He finally realized what I meant and how I felt and in a way it strengthened our friendship because of it. After I finished tying my tie and putting on the old and still rather good looking dress shoes that I had in a box in one of my suit cases, I stood up to put on my suit jacket.
Corey: I hope it goes well, Nick, but I also hope you keep your mind sharp. Don't dull your senses for an instant or you could have everything swept out from under you just like that.
I nodded my head and then smiled at Corey.
Nick: Don't worry, you can count on me to keep my head screwed on right. Now, I got to run. I have a meeting to get to after all.
I walked to the door, but not before looking myself over in the mirror to check if I looked good, and after about a second I deemed myself as looking mighty sharp. I then opened the door and turned my head to the side before stating.
Nick: Have the gear ready for tonight, we are doing the live stream remember?
Corey nodded his head and I nodded mine before I walked out the door and latched the door behind me. As I stepped a few feet out, I couldn't help, but think about the possibilities that awaited me. I had never had a talent agent before and had only ever been on my own in terms of negotiating things, but now everything would be different. I would have someone working with me on everything and trying to help me get what we both thought I deserved. I could finally feel a great deal of anxiety lift off me as I took the stairs down into the lobby. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders and now I could move more freely. To me, my life finally seemed to be on the right track.
*End of Scene*
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**An Hour Later, McArthur Talent Agency**
It had been a quiet drive all by my lonesome, but I had decided with the way that Corey had been acting that it would be better to meet with McArthur by myself. After all, I didn't want Corey's negativity to effect my chances at landing a good agent for myself. So, stepping out of the car, and looking around at my surroundings, I took my first look at the building that housed the agency. It was a nice four story building that looked like it had been recently renovated to make itself appear more warm and inviting. It was in a good location, near the inner part of town, and surrounded by few other businesses making it the center piece of this area, thus amplifying its' chances of attracting clients. It wasn't a building that would blow you away with how high tech it was, but it surely would be inviting. After spending a few seconds looking at the building, I took a big gulp, and gathered my courage before nervously making my way inside the building.
The inside was not much different from the outside and was warm and inviting. The lobby was pretty empty, but yet had up to date reading material, and a flat screen television with ESPN on it. I made my way to the front desk, eyeing the television screen which displayed Shockwave 2012 advertisement, and stopped as soon as I reached it. I waited for about ten seconds before a young man made his way to the front counter with a grin.
Young Man: How may I help you, sir?
Nick: I'm here to see Mr. McArthur, we set up an appointment for today.
Young Man: One second, let me check my records.
The young man began to type something on the computer which was sitting on the desk and after about five seconds said.
Young Man: And who are you?
Nick: Nick Watson.
The man took even less time to find out I had a scheduled meeting with Mr. McArthur and nodded his head before replying.
Young Man: Fourth floor, its' the office at the end.
I nodded my head and made my way to the elevator, once inside I pressed the button associated with the fourth floor, and waited for the machine to deposit me at my destination. Barely a few seconds later, I was standing in a wide hall with many different offices which were occupied with either filing cabinets or workers. I spent a few idle moments looking around before making my way down the hall toward Mr. McArthur's office. Upon reaching the office, I was greeted by a pleasant surprise.
Megan: You came!
I turned to see Megan coming from my right with a broad smile on her face. She wore a sort of business casual looking sort of attire and had her hair tied up in a bun and as she neared me, she came in for the hug. I reciprocated and we both began to talk a bit.
Nick: Yeah, I decided that it would be really good to get an agent.
Megan: That's really good. I promise you, Mr. McArthur is no slouch, and neither is his business decisions. He is always looking out for his clients, but at times can be a little...eccentric.
I didn't know what she meant, but my reasoning told me that just as long as he made good business decisions I could live with the other stuff quite easily.
Nick: That's fine. Just as long as he does a good job.
Megan: Trust me, he is one of the best in the business at handing athletic contracts.
Nick: Well, I assume we shouldn't keep him waiting for much longer, should we?
Megan nodded and opened the door for me, allowing me to enter inside one of the most beautifully decorated offices that I have ever seen. It had everything: leather chairs, a plasma screen tv, a view, and several expensive paintings. All in all, this office was perfectly constructed. I looked over at McArthur's desk, the office chair turned away from me, looking out over the view, and a line of expensive alcoholic treats stood ready to be poured on his desk.
Voice: About damn time you showed up. I've been waiting about an hour!
The voice struck me as familiar and for a moment a feint memory hit my mind of a man that I had once knew. Yet my mind told me it wasn't possible, told me that this man couldn't be McArthur, told me that he could not possibly be him because of the fact that his name was different, and as my mind tried to grasp it, the voice spoke again.
Voice: Stop standing in the door way, sit down for Christ's sake!
I sat down and as the chair swiveled around to reveal the man that I had thought I had parted with a couple months ago, my mind went into overdrive trying to explain what is going on.
Nick: But you are...
Man: I know, I know...I'm not Mr. McArthur, but I did promise I would manage you one day, didn't I?
Madok Mortalis, the weapon's developer sat before, and he looked rather healthy with a few gray streaks in his hair to signify that he was only getting older. He wore a sharp looking hand tailored business suit from probably some foreign country and had a rugged outdoorsy man beard going on. He looked at me with a grin and I looked at him in surprise. It had been months since I had heard from Madok, months since I had seen him, but yet here he was now. I began to fear that Corey was right in his earlier assumptions that Megan had been hired to find me by Madok, to bring me here, and talk to me about him managing me. I didn't know if I wanted a man like Madok managing me, I had heard stories of his drinking, and of course his 'eccentric' approach to his managing technique. It sort of scared me to even think of what could possibly go wrong with him as my manager.
Madok: Stop acting like a damn deer caught in the headlights! I know its' a shock, but it can't be that much of a shock, can it?
Nick: I'm sorry...I'm jut a bit surprised is all. I thought this was McArthur Talent Agency.
Madok: It is.
Nick: Then why are you...
Madok: Anonymity, my dear Watson. I don't want the world knowing that a rich business man like Madok Mortalis is dabbling in managing athletes. It would attract too much unwanted attention, besides this is actually better for you as I already know you, and thus that makes it easier for me to sign you on.
My mind was still drawing question marks as to why Madok was here, but I decided to not try to question it as I would be there all day trying to piece it together. Instead, I decided to focus on the task at hand.
Nick: I don't know how I feel about you managing me, Madok. I kind of know how you are from personal experience besides I cut my ties with Pence a while ago and haven't heard from him since and I could only assume that means I cut ties with you too.
Madok: First of all, I'm not going to manage you. I have over twenty contracts that I overlook and defer to my underlings to work with. Second of all, though you cut ties with Pence, it doesn't mean you cut ties with me. After all, Pence, and I are two different people.
Nick: What do you mean you won't manage me?
Madok: Exactly what I meant.
Nick: Then what is the point of me being here?
As I said this I stood up to leave, but Madok was already on his feet, and in front of me. The guy could still move for an older guy.
Madok: Can you cool your jets for five seconds? Jeeze, kids these days never listen to the whole story. What I mean by I won't manage you is that I will defer your business to one of my underlings.
Nick: Can you stop calling them underlings? They have names you know.
Madok: Political correctness has never been my strong suit.
Madok paused and then let out a sigh before continuing on.
Madok: I have three guys who can help you with your contract problems. These guys are all veterans in the game and are great negotiators. I would know because I hired them myself, but in the end...I want it to be your decision as to who handles your case. This is an important decision and I know you may not like me, but at least you can respect that I am a great business man, and that means that the people I am suggesting to you are bright people and are capable of handling your contract.
Nick: And these guys are good?
Madok: I would say they are the best in my employ.
As I thought for a long second about these three guys Madok was talking about, an idea popped into my head, and this idea quickly blossomed out into something I thought I could do.
Nick: I think I have an idea of who I want to handle my contract.
Madok: Oh yeah? Who do you have in mind?
*End of Scene*
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***Later That Evening, Hotel Room***
Megan: I can't believe this! I'm so excited to be representing my first ever client!
Corey looked at me in shame and a weak smile spread across my face. Sure, she had inexperience, but at the same time we connected on a decent enough level, and I believed that she could do very well if she worked underneath Madok as she had. Okay, maybe I was trying to get close to her too, but damn it! It is hard to find a girl that you actually like these days and I wasn't going to allow this opportunity to slip me by!
Nick: Just promise me you will handle everything professionally and with class and we are good to go.
Megan: You can count on me, Nick! I promise that I will do whatever it takes to make sure your wishes come true!
As my mind thought about my wishes, I was punched on the shoulder by Corey who pointed at the cameras positioned around the room. I nodded my head before speaking to Megan again.
Nick: Megan, its show time for me, and Corey...so if you don't mind?
Megan: Of course! My apologies, you go do what makes you so sensational, and I will go call APW HQ.
I nodded my head and watched her as she left the room and by watch maybe I should say I stared. Another hard hit later from Corey, I was back to thinking about the livestream.
Corey: Alright, lets get started.
After a second of pause and the signal from Corey, I put on a wide grin, and slipped into the Sensational One persona with ease.
Nick: Hello, ladies and gentlemen! It is I, your friendly neighborhood Sensational One! And today I'm here to talk about Shockwave, my new agent, and of course an update on little Jayden Harris, who was kidnapped about two to three weeks ago! So, lets get the show rolling by defering over to my partner in crime and camera man, Corey! Corey will be bringing us an update on the Jayden situation! So, Corey...how are things looking?
I paused and allowed Corey to take over, as the image of Corey cam on the livestream he began to speak.
Corey: Right now the police are doing everything in their power to return Jayden to his family, sadly there has been no progress in returning the kid to his family because of ass holes who could care less about their own children. You know who you are! So as of right now, no progress has been made, but the police are trying their best to save the poor child.
Nick: That is really sad to hear, Corey, but I'm sure some resolution will be found in the near future because at least now the authorities are involved! On the subject of the Jayden situation, wouldn't you think that if Harris stopped worrying about keeping Rivera down that Jayden would already be home, and sleeping in his own bed?
Corey: Yeah, but Michael Harris is about as stupid as stupid can get, and as we know Michael is hell bent on making himself seem as uncaring as he possibly can so this situation couldn't be more helpful to proving that point.
Nick: I would like to make one more point before we move on to my new agent and manager, Megan Bradley.
Corey: Go right ahead, it is your show!
The camera switches over to me as I begin to follow up and close the Jayden talks.
Nick: Now, this last point may be me grasping at straws, but don't you think it is a bit weird how this is playing out for Michael? I mean, this could potentially be a bargaining chip for him in the near future due to the inaction of APW officials during the kidnapping process, Harris could use this, and get a contract extension or even a new contract with benefits. And don't tell me he wouldn't do that Corey because that is what Harris is...an opportunistic psychopath who would use his own son as a tool to not only keep Rivera down in what he refers as the "C-show", but also as a tool to put some control back into his career.
Corey: I actually see where you are getting at and when I think of Harris, the only thing that comes to my mind is scum. I have no doubt in my mind that Harris could and would do this if it had already popped up in his mind.
Nick: I mean it makes sense, right? Harris has always been one to capitalize on the situations that he has been given and his sense of entitlement is deranged and almost pathetic. So, its not hard to believe he would use his son in this manner to get ahead before contract negotiations even begin.
Corey: Its things like that, that just make you want to throw up. Its sick and it is disturbing, but at the same time I can see it totally being something that asshole Harris would do.
A slight pause for the both of us as we slowly, but surely begin to understand how this could all play out in favor of Harris who is on the verge of losing it all in three months time.
Nick: Moving on to something more positive! Today, I have signed on as the newest client of McArthur Talent Agency and my new agent is named Megan Bradley. She is smart, beautiful, and is a classy girl, plus she is really excited to be part of the Sensational Crew! I think maybe next week we can add her to the livestream, what do you think Corey?
Corey: Sounds like a great idea. Might draw in some more viewers if you put a beautiful girl on screen for a bit.
Nick: Always thinking about the viewers and not about the potential of having another voice added to our livestream. Anyway, she is really excited to be here during our transition period from rookie contract to full on megastar contract, and I have faith that she will do a wonderful job in getting us here at the Sensational Show a really nice contract with some amazing benefits.
Corey: I hope she gets us payed vacation.
Nick: We can dream, Corey...we can dream!
My mind drifts to me and Megan on a beach with her in a revealing bikini, I almost drool, but am interrupted by the third hit of the evening by Corey.
Corey: You have to forgive him ladies and gentlemen, The Sensational One is prone to day dreaming.
Nick: Sorry about that, anyway, moving on to Shockwave! We all know who my opponent is going to be for this week, but for those of you who missed it, let me all remind you that I am fighting Michael Harris. I have never seen a man so hell bent on getting revenge on me in my life, viewers. And it all because he believes that I am below him and that my whole career up to this point has been one giant lucky break. I mean it is entertaining to think of it as such and I can see how the not so intelligent forces that work in the underbelly of this show would view me as such, but in all honesty it isn't true!
Corey: Yeah! I don't think there is anyone in APW who trains more or harder than Nick Watson. This guy gets up at five in the morning every day just to train and prepare himself for specific match ups. Its not like he sleeps in and does absolutely nothing every day. This guy works hard and he is seeing the fruits of his labors and those of you who think he doesn't work hard need to open their eyes to the truth and take a good look at Nick one more time before judging him.
Nick: You know, its' not easy waking up every morning to do that either. Some times the body wants to rest and relax, but I have to keep the body going strong so that I can not let the viewers or my opponent down each and every night I step into the ring. Because these people pay the price of admission to see competition and if I slack off and give a sub-par performance, the only thing I am doing is ruining that match, and the show for everyone involved. And I don't want to do that! I want to give my opponent a fight and my fans out in the audience some entertainment, after all what am I without the fans? Nothing, that's what. But back on the subject of Harris and Shockwave...I found it weird to see Carmen sort of hinting that she was going to come out at Shockwave...personally I don't want that unless if it is to return Jayden to his father, then be my guest!
But I don't need help. I can win this match up against Harris fair and square which is more than I can say for Harris, who is thinking of fighting dirty the whole time anyway. After all, he wants to end my career, and take what I have earned from me.
There is a pause before Corey continues the statement.
Corey: You hear what he said viewers? He says he earned it and that is no joke. This man has fought, clawed, and crawled his way to where he is at now. He has not stolen anyone's thunder and sure as hell wouldn't be stealing from a man like Harris.
Nick: Yeah, it does me no good to steal what didn't exist in the first place. Michael Harris has had delusional thoughts since the day he got here. He has had paranoid thoughts, thoughts of grandeur, and of course a sense of entitlement around him since day one. He has earned nothing from this company and will continue to earn nothing as his attitude continues to cash checks that he just can't cash. Sure he has beaten some guys and had some really good matches, but why should we give this man a big time title shot when he couldn't even defeat Dionysus a few months ago? It is absurd to think of the amount of crap that comes out of his mouth, but what is even more absurd is the fact that this man is threatening me. He is threatening to permanently injure me, to force me to retire in my prime, and force me to find another employer. No man should have the right to take another man's livelihood like that and that is why I must win this Sunday at Shockwave.
You see its not as easy as just beating around the bush with him as our first skirmishes were, no...this man must be defeated in such a way that there is no chance that he will ever harm anyone else again. I'm not saying I'm going to neutralize him. No, I am saying I'm going to stop him by beating him in such a manner he can not deny that he needs to change his tune. I know it will be hard, but someone has to stop this before someone is really hurt by him. This man has slipped into a state of pure delusion. His anger and frustration has molded him into a psychopathic monster that will stop it nothing to end his opponents and we can't have that on roster. All it would do is ruin ratings and cause law suit settlements and eventually would bankrupt the company.
A company that Harris said he does not care for and that personally makes me sick that he has no loyalty to this company. It doesn't surprise me, but it makes me sick. Anyway, before we go, and end the show for the evening...I would like to close up with a final statement. Harris...this is directed at you so listen up. I am not afraid of you, I am not shaking in my boots, and pissing my pants. I am not intimidated by your bullying tactics, in fact your comments have only riled me up more, the point I'm trying to make is that I would watch out if I were you...because this Sunday, there is no turning back. I don't care if I am bleeding, broken, or dead...I will end this crap with one quick stroke and liberate everyone from your stupidity, but for now. I will casually wait till Sunday, the day of Shockwave. The day that marks the end of your delusions, your lies, and your pathetic attempt at slandering my hard work and training. There will be no more doubt after this Sunday about who the better man is because regardless of how hard you try to end me, it won't happen because I have worked too damn hard to let some asshole who doesn't even care about his own kid defeat me! Maybe after it is all said and done you will finally acknowledge my skills, but chances are you won't, because that is who you are Harris. As I said before I don't hate you, Harris...well the truth is I pity you, and with that pity, I feel the need to release you...so Sunday I will release you from this all, so rest assured it will all be over soon, I know I am resting easier already. So good night ladies and gentlemen, I hope to see you all at Shockwave!
The screen bursts to static on me giving the fans a thumbs up sign with a grin on my face.
*Present Day*
Things felt different for me today and I didn't know if it was because I had met Megan or that I felt like maybe I had some control in my future finally. The night before I had stayed up close to midnight talking with one of the most beautiful women that I had ever been around in my life and today I had a meeting with a man who was known as Paul McArthur, head of a moderately sized talent agency. It didn't get much better than this. Where as the day before my mind had been full of concerns, doubts, and fear, today I felt strongly that things were going to be different. That maybe, if this meeting went well, and everything worked out, I would finally have the help I needed to get the exposure I needed. After all, it was very hard to get what you needed if you had no experience in asking the right questions to get it, and hopefully Mr. McArthur would be the answer to my prayers. Maybe, just maybe I would finally have somebody looking out for me for a change.
Corey: So she just showed up at the bar, talked to you about her agency taking a liking to you, and then you spent the night drinking and enjoying yourself?
Nick: Yeah...can you pass me my tie? I want to look sharp going into this meeting.
Corey reached over to my bag and pulled out a blue tie, which he laid out into my outstretched hand, and then continued his line of questioning.
Corey: And you don't think it is a bit too convenient that she found you in that bar?
Nick: Not really, Corey, and that is because she was going into the bar to have a few drinks after her shift was over. You make it sound like I'm being stalked or something.
I snickered as I began to put on my tie. Corey was concerned, but then again when wasn't he concerned? I could understand to an extent what he was saying, but right now I was pretty high up in the clouds. A talent agency was interested in my talents, but that wasn't all that was interested me. That girl, Megan, was at well, and I couldn't help, but feel some kind of attraction to that girl. She was beautiful, smart, and brave, and I happened to find those three qualities to be high up on my lists of what I wanted in a girlfriend. Corey, was of course, not satisfied with me brushing him off like that, and would continue to show his concern.
Corey: What if this girl was sent to find you to make you want to sign with them?
Nick: Are we calling Megan a prostitute now?
Corey: No, but some times business executives higher voluptuous women to attract clients. Its' just how the business world works.
Nick: And you are claiming to be some kind of business officinato, eh? I mean if that were the case then why aren't you representing me?
Corey: Here you are joking around, but can't you see I'm concerned about all of this? Things like this just don't happen!
Nick: And why can't they happen, Corey? Maybe for once something good is happening in my life!
He looked at me in confusion, but I glared back at him with pure confidence. Its' not like life had been going my way over the past few months. I was still opening shows instead of closing them, I was still one of the athletes that had yet to receive a match that would prove his worth to APW, and I was still constantly being accosted by Michael Harris. It was not fair to a man such as me to have these problems. I had changed so much, worked so hard, and I deserved the same opportunities that everyone else was getting. Yet, here I was fighting against a man who wanted to injure me, and take my career away from me. Yet, I was boldly walking into the lion's den to defeat yet another monster before the APW masses, and more than likely the following week my accomplishment would be pushed under the rug again.
Nick: Look, I need something to go right for once. I need somebody who can help my career, Corey. I can't keep opening shows for the rest of my days. I need to do something worthy of attention and the only way to do that is through negotiation. If I could do it myself... I would, but I can't. I need this to go well, Corey.
Corey continued to look at me with concern for a few more moments before finally he nodded his head in agreement. He finally realized what I meant and how I felt and in a way it strengthened our friendship because of it. After I finished tying my tie and putting on the old and still rather good looking dress shoes that I had in a box in one of my suit cases, I stood up to put on my suit jacket.
Corey: I hope it goes well, Nick, but I also hope you keep your mind sharp. Don't dull your senses for an instant or you could have everything swept out from under you just like that.
I nodded my head and then smiled at Corey.
Nick: Don't worry, you can count on me to keep my head screwed on right. Now, I got to run. I have a meeting to get to after all.
I walked to the door, but not before looking myself over in the mirror to check if I looked good, and after about a second I deemed myself as looking mighty sharp. I then opened the door and turned my head to the side before stating.
Nick: Have the gear ready for tonight, we are doing the live stream remember?
Corey nodded his head and I nodded mine before I walked out the door and latched the door behind me. As I stepped a few feet out, I couldn't help, but think about the possibilities that awaited me. I had never had a talent agent before and had only ever been on my own in terms of negotiating things, but now everything would be different. I would have someone working with me on everything and trying to help me get what we both thought I deserved. I could finally feel a great deal of anxiety lift off me as I took the stairs down into the lobby. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders and now I could move more freely. To me, my life finally seemed to be on the right track.
*End of Scene*
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**An Hour Later, McArthur Talent Agency**
It had been a quiet drive all by my lonesome, but I had decided with the way that Corey had been acting that it would be better to meet with McArthur by myself. After all, I didn't want Corey's negativity to effect my chances at landing a good agent for myself. So, stepping out of the car, and looking around at my surroundings, I took my first look at the building that housed the agency. It was a nice four story building that looked like it had been recently renovated to make itself appear more warm and inviting. It was in a good location, near the inner part of town, and surrounded by few other businesses making it the center piece of this area, thus amplifying its' chances of attracting clients. It wasn't a building that would blow you away with how high tech it was, but it surely would be inviting. After spending a few seconds looking at the building, I took a big gulp, and gathered my courage before nervously making my way inside the building.
The inside was not much different from the outside and was warm and inviting. The lobby was pretty empty, but yet had up to date reading material, and a flat screen television with ESPN on it. I made my way to the front desk, eyeing the television screen which displayed Shockwave 2012 advertisement, and stopped as soon as I reached it. I waited for about ten seconds before a young man made his way to the front counter with a grin.
Young Man: How may I help you, sir?
Nick: I'm here to see Mr. McArthur, we set up an appointment for today.
Young Man: One second, let me check my records.
The young man began to type something on the computer which was sitting on the desk and after about five seconds said.
Young Man: And who are you?
Nick: Nick Watson.
The man took even less time to find out I had a scheduled meeting with Mr. McArthur and nodded his head before replying.
Young Man: Fourth floor, its' the office at the end.
I nodded my head and made my way to the elevator, once inside I pressed the button associated with the fourth floor, and waited for the machine to deposit me at my destination. Barely a few seconds later, I was standing in a wide hall with many different offices which were occupied with either filing cabinets or workers. I spent a few idle moments looking around before making my way down the hall toward Mr. McArthur's office. Upon reaching the office, I was greeted by a pleasant surprise.
Megan: You came!
I turned to see Megan coming from my right with a broad smile on her face. She wore a sort of business casual looking sort of attire and had her hair tied up in a bun and as she neared me, she came in for the hug. I reciprocated and we both began to talk a bit.
Nick: Yeah, I decided that it would be really good to get an agent.
Megan: That's really good. I promise you, Mr. McArthur is no slouch, and neither is his business decisions. He is always looking out for his clients, but at times can be a little...eccentric.
I didn't know what she meant, but my reasoning told me that just as long as he made good business decisions I could live with the other stuff quite easily.
Nick: That's fine. Just as long as he does a good job.
Megan: Trust me, he is one of the best in the business at handing athletic contracts.
Nick: Well, I assume we shouldn't keep him waiting for much longer, should we?
Megan nodded and opened the door for me, allowing me to enter inside one of the most beautifully decorated offices that I have ever seen. It had everything: leather chairs, a plasma screen tv, a view, and several expensive paintings. All in all, this office was perfectly constructed. I looked over at McArthur's desk, the office chair turned away from me, looking out over the view, and a line of expensive alcoholic treats stood ready to be poured on his desk.
Voice: About damn time you showed up. I've been waiting about an hour!
The voice struck me as familiar and for a moment a feint memory hit my mind of a man that I had once knew. Yet my mind told me it wasn't possible, told me that this man couldn't be McArthur, told me that he could not possibly be him because of the fact that his name was different, and as my mind tried to grasp it, the voice spoke again.
Voice: Stop standing in the door way, sit down for Christ's sake!
I sat down and as the chair swiveled around to reveal the man that I had thought I had parted with a couple months ago, my mind went into overdrive trying to explain what is going on.
Nick: But you are...
Man: I know, I know...I'm not Mr. McArthur, but I did promise I would manage you one day, didn't I?
Madok Mortalis, the weapon's developer sat before, and he looked rather healthy with a few gray streaks in his hair to signify that he was only getting older. He wore a sharp looking hand tailored business suit from probably some foreign country and had a rugged outdoorsy man beard going on. He looked at me with a grin and I looked at him in surprise. It had been months since I had heard from Madok, months since I had seen him, but yet here he was now. I began to fear that Corey was right in his earlier assumptions that Megan had been hired to find me by Madok, to bring me here, and talk to me about him managing me. I didn't know if I wanted a man like Madok managing me, I had heard stories of his drinking, and of course his 'eccentric' approach to his managing technique. It sort of scared me to even think of what could possibly go wrong with him as my manager.
Madok: Stop acting like a damn deer caught in the headlights! I know its' a shock, but it can't be that much of a shock, can it?
Nick: I'm sorry...I'm jut a bit surprised is all. I thought this was McArthur Talent Agency.
Madok: It is.
Nick: Then why are you...
Madok: Anonymity, my dear Watson. I don't want the world knowing that a rich business man like Madok Mortalis is dabbling in managing athletes. It would attract too much unwanted attention, besides this is actually better for you as I already know you, and thus that makes it easier for me to sign you on.
My mind was still drawing question marks as to why Madok was here, but I decided to not try to question it as I would be there all day trying to piece it together. Instead, I decided to focus on the task at hand.
Nick: I don't know how I feel about you managing me, Madok. I kind of know how you are from personal experience besides I cut my ties with Pence a while ago and haven't heard from him since and I could only assume that means I cut ties with you too.
Madok: First of all, I'm not going to manage you. I have over twenty contracts that I overlook and defer to my underlings to work with. Second of all, though you cut ties with Pence, it doesn't mean you cut ties with me. After all, Pence, and I are two different people.
Nick: What do you mean you won't manage me?
Madok: Exactly what I meant.
Nick: Then what is the point of me being here?
As I said this I stood up to leave, but Madok was already on his feet, and in front of me. The guy could still move for an older guy.
Madok: Can you cool your jets for five seconds? Jeeze, kids these days never listen to the whole story. What I mean by I won't manage you is that I will defer your business to one of my underlings.
Nick: Can you stop calling them underlings? They have names you know.
Madok: Political correctness has never been my strong suit.
Madok paused and then let out a sigh before continuing on.
Madok: I have three guys who can help you with your contract problems. These guys are all veterans in the game and are great negotiators. I would know because I hired them myself, but in the end...I want it to be your decision as to who handles your case. This is an important decision and I know you may not like me, but at least you can respect that I am a great business man, and that means that the people I am suggesting to you are bright people and are capable of handling your contract.
Nick: And these guys are good?
Madok: I would say they are the best in my employ.
As I thought for a long second about these three guys Madok was talking about, an idea popped into my head, and this idea quickly blossomed out into something I thought I could do.
Nick: I think I have an idea of who I want to handle my contract.
Madok: Oh yeah? Who do you have in mind?
*End of Scene*
==============================================
***Later That Evening, Hotel Room***
Megan: I can't believe this! I'm so excited to be representing my first ever client!
Corey looked at me in shame and a weak smile spread across my face. Sure, she had inexperience, but at the same time we connected on a decent enough level, and I believed that she could do very well if she worked underneath Madok as she had. Okay, maybe I was trying to get close to her too, but damn it! It is hard to find a girl that you actually like these days and I wasn't going to allow this opportunity to slip me by!
Nick: Just promise me you will handle everything professionally and with class and we are good to go.
Megan: You can count on me, Nick! I promise that I will do whatever it takes to make sure your wishes come true!
As my mind thought about my wishes, I was punched on the shoulder by Corey who pointed at the cameras positioned around the room. I nodded my head before speaking to Megan again.
Nick: Megan, its show time for me, and Corey...so if you don't mind?
Megan: Of course! My apologies, you go do what makes you so sensational, and I will go call APW HQ.
I nodded my head and watched her as she left the room and by watch maybe I should say I stared. Another hard hit later from Corey, I was back to thinking about the livestream.
Corey: Alright, lets get started.
After a second of pause and the signal from Corey, I put on a wide grin, and slipped into the Sensational One persona with ease.
Nick: Hello, ladies and gentlemen! It is I, your friendly neighborhood Sensational One! And today I'm here to talk about Shockwave, my new agent, and of course an update on little Jayden Harris, who was kidnapped about two to three weeks ago! So, lets get the show rolling by defering over to my partner in crime and camera man, Corey! Corey will be bringing us an update on the Jayden situation! So, Corey...how are things looking?
I paused and allowed Corey to take over, as the image of Corey cam on the livestream he began to speak.
Corey: Right now the police are doing everything in their power to return Jayden to his family, sadly there has been no progress in returning the kid to his family because of ass holes who could care less about their own children. You know who you are! So as of right now, no progress has been made, but the police are trying their best to save the poor child.
Nick: That is really sad to hear, Corey, but I'm sure some resolution will be found in the near future because at least now the authorities are involved! On the subject of the Jayden situation, wouldn't you think that if Harris stopped worrying about keeping Rivera down that Jayden would already be home, and sleeping in his own bed?
Corey: Yeah, but Michael Harris is about as stupid as stupid can get, and as we know Michael is hell bent on making himself seem as uncaring as he possibly can so this situation couldn't be more helpful to proving that point.
Nick: I would like to make one more point before we move on to my new agent and manager, Megan Bradley.
Corey: Go right ahead, it is your show!
The camera switches over to me as I begin to follow up and close the Jayden talks.
Nick: Now, this last point may be me grasping at straws, but don't you think it is a bit weird how this is playing out for Michael? I mean, this could potentially be a bargaining chip for him in the near future due to the inaction of APW officials during the kidnapping process, Harris could use this, and get a contract extension or even a new contract with benefits. And don't tell me he wouldn't do that Corey because that is what Harris is...an opportunistic psychopath who would use his own son as a tool to not only keep Rivera down in what he refers as the "C-show", but also as a tool to put some control back into his career.
Corey: I actually see where you are getting at and when I think of Harris, the only thing that comes to my mind is scum. I have no doubt in my mind that Harris could and would do this if it had already popped up in his mind.
Nick: I mean it makes sense, right? Harris has always been one to capitalize on the situations that he has been given and his sense of entitlement is deranged and almost pathetic. So, its not hard to believe he would use his son in this manner to get ahead before contract negotiations even begin.
Corey: Its things like that, that just make you want to throw up. Its sick and it is disturbing, but at the same time I can see it totally being something that asshole Harris would do.
A slight pause for the both of us as we slowly, but surely begin to understand how this could all play out in favor of Harris who is on the verge of losing it all in three months time.
Nick: Moving on to something more positive! Today, I have signed on as the newest client of McArthur Talent Agency and my new agent is named Megan Bradley. She is smart, beautiful, and is a classy girl, plus she is really excited to be part of the Sensational Crew! I think maybe next week we can add her to the livestream, what do you think Corey?
Corey: Sounds like a great idea. Might draw in some more viewers if you put a beautiful girl on screen for a bit.
Nick: Always thinking about the viewers and not about the potential of having another voice added to our livestream. Anyway, she is really excited to be here during our transition period from rookie contract to full on megastar contract, and I have faith that she will do a wonderful job in getting us here at the Sensational Show a really nice contract with some amazing benefits.
Corey: I hope she gets us payed vacation.
Nick: We can dream, Corey...we can dream!
My mind drifts to me and Megan on a beach with her in a revealing bikini, I almost drool, but am interrupted by the third hit of the evening by Corey.
Corey: You have to forgive him ladies and gentlemen, The Sensational One is prone to day dreaming.
Nick: Sorry about that, anyway, moving on to Shockwave! We all know who my opponent is going to be for this week, but for those of you who missed it, let me all remind you that I am fighting Michael Harris. I have never seen a man so hell bent on getting revenge on me in my life, viewers. And it all because he believes that I am below him and that my whole career up to this point has been one giant lucky break. I mean it is entertaining to think of it as such and I can see how the not so intelligent forces that work in the underbelly of this show would view me as such, but in all honesty it isn't true!
Corey: Yeah! I don't think there is anyone in APW who trains more or harder than Nick Watson. This guy gets up at five in the morning every day just to train and prepare himself for specific match ups. Its not like he sleeps in and does absolutely nothing every day. This guy works hard and he is seeing the fruits of his labors and those of you who think he doesn't work hard need to open their eyes to the truth and take a good look at Nick one more time before judging him.
Nick: You know, its' not easy waking up every morning to do that either. Some times the body wants to rest and relax, but I have to keep the body going strong so that I can not let the viewers or my opponent down each and every night I step into the ring. Because these people pay the price of admission to see competition and if I slack off and give a sub-par performance, the only thing I am doing is ruining that match, and the show for everyone involved. And I don't want to do that! I want to give my opponent a fight and my fans out in the audience some entertainment, after all what am I without the fans? Nothing, that's what. But back on the subject of Harris and Shockwave...I found it weird to see Carmen sort of hinting that she was going to come out at Shockwave...personally I don't want that unless if it is to return Jayden to his father, then be my guest!
But I don't need help. I can win this match up against Harris fair and square which is more than I can say for Harris, who is thinking of fighting dirty the whole time anyway. After all, he wants to end my career, and take what I have earned from me.
There is a pause before Corey continues the statement.
Corey: You hear what he said viewers? He says he earned it and that is no joke. This man has fought, clawed, and crawled his way to where he is at now. He has not stolen anyone's thunder and sure as hell wouldn't be stealing from a man like Harris.
Nick: Yeah, it does me no good to steal what didn't exist in the first place. Michael Harris has had delusional thoughts since the day he got here. He has had paranoid thoughts, thoughts of grandeur, and of course a sense of entitlement around him since day one. He has earned nothing from this company and will continue to earn nothing as his attitude continues to cash checks that he just can't cash. Sure he has beaten some guys and had some really good matches, but why should we give this man a big time title shot when he couldn't even defeat Dionysus a few months ago? It is absurd to think of the amount of crap that comes out of his mouth, but what is even more absurd is the fact that this man is threatening me. He is threatening to permanently injure me, to force me to retire in my prime, and force me to find another employer. No man should have the right to take another man's livelihood like that and that is why I must win this Sunday at Shockwave.
You see its not as easy as just beating around the bush with him as our first skirmishes were, no...this man must be defeated in such a way that there is no chance that he will ever harm anyone else again. I'm not saying I'm going to neutralize him. No, I am saying I'm going to stop him by beating him in such a manner he can not deny that he needs to change his tune. I know it will be hard, but someone has to stop this before someone is really hurt by him. This man has slipped into a state of pure delusion. His anger and frustration has molded him into a psychopathic monster that will stop it nothing to end his opponents and we can't have that on roster. All it would do is ruin ratings and cause law suit settlements and eventually would bankrupt the company.
A company that Harris said he does not care for and that personally makes me sick that he has no loyalty to this company. It doesn't surprise me, but it makes me sick. Anyway, before we go, and end the show for the evening...I would like to close up with a final statement. Harris...this is directed at you so listen up. I am not afraid of you, I am not shaking in my boots, and pissing my pants. I am not intimidated by your bullying tactics, in fact your comments have only riled me up more, the point I'm trying to make is that I would watch out if I were you...because this Sunday, there is no turning back. I don't care if I am bleeding, broken, or dead...I will end this crap with one quick stroke and liberate everyone from your stupidity, but for now. I will casually wait till Sunday, the day of Shockwave. The day that marks the end of your delusions, your lies, and your pathetic attempt at slandering my hard work and training. There will be no more doubt after this Sunday about who the better man is because regardless of how hard you try to end me, it won't happen because I have worked too damn hard to let some asshole who doesn't even care about his own kid defeat me! Maybe after it is all said and done you will finally acknowledge my skills, but chances are you won't, because that is who you are Harris. As I said before I don't hate you, Harris...well the truth is I pity you, and with that pity, I feel the need to release you...so Sunday I will release you from this all, so rest assured it will all be over soon, I know I am resting easier already. So good night ladies and gentlemen, I hope to see you all at Shockwave!
The screen bursts to static on me giving the fans a thumbs up sign with a grin on my face.
