Post by biggs on Sept 21, 2009 21:00:29 GMT -4
(Note: As usual for me, anything in quotation marks is internal thoughts.)
August 30, 2009
The Trainer's Room in the Air Canada Centre is brightly lit room with green tile walls and white linoleum floors. The air is a bit stagnant, and it smells of medicine. Biggs is seated on the doctor's bench, with his head stitched up and dried blood on his face. Besides Biggs, the fight doctor is in the room. He is an aged man of short height and stout build, and he's slightly balding. Clad in a white doctor's coat and a green shirt, he has a double chin and several liver spots. The doctor is checking Biggs' arm, moving the elbow joint a bit. The new APW Overdrive champion winces a bit, and the doctor has a slight wheeze in his voice as he speaks.
Doctor: Thankfully it's nothing too serious, just some minor swelling and bruising that should subside in a few days.
Biggs: I'm booked for a short tour of Japan in four days. Should I be able to work those shows?
Doctor: Shouldn't be a problem, just take care of that arm until then. You're free to go.
Biggs slides down off the table and grabs his Overdrive Title Belt, slinging it over his good shoulder before exiting the training room. As he steps out into the hall, Pastor Jay is there to greet him with a big hug.
Jay: (excited) CONGRATULATIONS GARY! YOU DID IT! YOU WON THE BELT! I'M SO PROUD OF YOU!
Biggs: Careful with the arm...
Jay quickly lets go of the hug.
Jay: Sorry! I'm just elated that you won is all! I had to come back here right away to congratulate you!
Biggs: Thanks, man. That means a lot to me that you're proud of me for this.
Jay: Now don't think that just because I'm proud of your accomplishments that we won't have a few things to talk about later. You wanted me to come to be able to get a good look at what you do for a living, and there were a few things that concerned me a bit, but now is a time for celebration!
At this point, Chris Cyrus and The Beast show up. Chris is beaming with joy, and The Beast gives Biggs a hearty slap on the back, causing a bit of discomfort for the new champ!
Cyrus: Oh hell yeah! You went out there tonight, Biggs, and showed exactly why The Axis of Awesome is just that, AWESOME! Not only did you out-wrestle Shadow, but you out-smarted the bum as well! Rock on!
Biggs: Thanks man.
Cyrus: We should celebrate by going out after the show and getting plastered!
Biggs: (pointing towards Jay while he's talking) Nope...Not my thing.
Cyrus: Ah, c'mon! You can bring the preacher man if you want!
Jay: That's not necessary.
Biggs: Actually, Jay and I already made plans to talk about a few things tonight following the show, but I'll be more than glad to join you after that.
Cyrus: So you'll be joining us in getting totally s***-faced!
Biggs: Well, you guys will be needing a designated driver.
Cyrus: You're no fun!
Biggs: But I do keep us safe so you can have more fun.
Cyrus: True that!
At this point, Jay intercedes.
Jay: Well, Gary, I think I'll be getting back to the hotel now.
Biggs: Why Jay? Don't you want to stay for the rest of the show?
Jay: Not really. This stuff is far too violent for my tastes. But still, congrats on the huge win tonight!
Biggs: Thanks again. You sure you don't want to stay?
Jay: Yep, I'm positive. Just give me a call when you get back to the hotel. I figure we can grab dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Biggs: No problem. And I'm paying tonight, no arguments about it.
Jay: If you insist, I won't stop you!
Biggs and Jay shake hands, and then Jay makes his way down the hall, heading towards the parking garage.
Biggs: (shouting towards Jay) I'll see you in a bit, bud!
Cyrus: Okay, now we got to talk about my match tonight, and how I'm going to retain my title without going extreme.
Biggs: Totally, no problem. Let's head to our locker room so nobody can eavesdrop.
***
After the conclusion of the Shockwave pay-per-view, Gary Biggerstaff is driving back to the Hilton hotel that he and Jay are staying at. As he's stopped at a light, Gary replays the image of dousing Slade with lighter fluid from the Super Soaker, and then the human torch Slade became after becoming engulfed in flames:
Slade grabs a package of matches and holds them up as the fans pop huge. He then tears off one match, and folds it behind the book ready to spark up the beginning of his title reign. Just then the fans explode with roaring which gets Slades attention. He turns toward the side of the ring as Biggs comes into his vision. The New APW Overdrive Champion, Biggs, has a super soaker in his hand. Slade steps to the edge of the ring, as Biggs begins spraying the liquid in his squirt gun on the man. Craven leaps out of the ring and begins chasing Biggs around the ring. Chris Cyrus stirs to his feet, and sees the assist he is receiving and then notices all the lighters in the ring. He clutches one of the lighters in his grasp and rolls out of the ring perching down as Biggs runs by him followed by Craven. Cryus then takes lighter and cracks it on the mans forehead sending out a spark that ignites the lighter fluid covering Cravens face. Cyrus quickly rolls away making sure he doesn't get caught in the flame. The ref quickly calls for the bell.
Tony: Your Winner and still Xtreme Champion Chris Cyrus.
The fire quickly spreads all over Slade's body as his arms begin flapping back and forth before he falls face forward. The technical crew rushes in and begins spraying the man off with fire extinguishers.
Gary: “How could I have done that to another man? How could I let myself knowingly douse another human being with lighter fluid with the intent of getting him set on fire? I bet that Slade's laid out in some hospital bed, covered from head to toe in bandages, and I'm responsible for that. I am responsible if his burns get infected. I am responsible if he has to lose a limb because of an infection. I am responsible for any complications that occur from his burns. I may very well be responsible for his very life if the worst occurs.”
At this point, the light has turned green, but Gary is lost in his thoughts, and doesn't go. A shrill honking of the horn behind him snaps Gary out of his deep thought, and he notices the green light. He steps on the gas, and goes through the light before turning into the Hilton's parking garage. As he parks his blue Prius, Gary sits out in the car a bit longer, thinking to himself some more.
Gary: “Well, it's not all my fault. After all, it was Max Carter who made the match. And what's more, he put my best friend in the match, despite the fact that Chris has sworn off the hardcore style forever. I simply did what I had to to protect my friend. If hadn't of been Slade who got burned, it would have been Chris, and I couldn't let that happen to my friend. Where was Shadow during all of this, and why did Assassin wait until after the match to come down? I was being a good friend, looking out for the wellbeing of my pal. More than the AKA, at least. Still, is protecting my friend from the same fate enough justification? I feel that it is...”
*The Starmaker says it ain't so bad/ The Dreammaker's going to make you mad/ The Spaceman says everybody look down/ It's all in your mind!* Gary's cellphone is ringing. The Overdrive champ grabs his phone, slides it open, and answers.
Gary: Hey Jay, what's up?...Yeah, I just got to the hotel, and parked my car. I'll be inside in a bit...Okay, see you when I get there.
Gary hangs up his phone and steps out of the car, clicking the button to lock everything up. The car chirps to acknowledge that it's locked, and Gary makes his way towards the hotel building.
Gary: “I'm just glad that Jay didn't stay to see that match...”
***
Jay is already seated in the hotel restaurant as Gary enters. The pastor waves to get his friend's attention, and Gary immediately sees him, making his way to the table and taking a seat. The restaurant is very posh, very classy, and is decorated in beige and maroon hues. As Gary sits down, a waitress comes by. She is your stereotypical blond waitress with a thin frame and a large smile.
Waitress: Hello, my name is Sarah, and I'll be your server for this evening.
Sarah notices the stitches on Gary's forehead.
Sarah: Looks like you've had a rough night so far. Can I get you something to drink to kick off a bit of the edge?
Biggs: No thanks. I'll just have a Dr. Pepper.
Sarah: (turning to Jay) And for your drink, sir?
Jay: I'll just have a diet, thank you.
Sarah: I'll be right back with those drinks.
As Sarah leaves, Jay and Gary pick up their menus, and begin to peruse them, trying to figure out what they want to eat.
Gary: So what are you going to have tonight, Jay?
Jay: I was thinking about going with the burger and fries.
Gary: Now don't go cheap on my Jay! That's the least expensive thing on the menu! Let me treat you tonight!
Jay: I seriously just want the burger and fries, it looks good...
Gary: Rubbish! You know that you want the steak and lobster, so you're going to get the steak and lobster! How do you like your steak?
Jay: That's really not necessary. The burger and fries would be fine...
Gary: Seriously, Jay, please let me treat you tonight. I'm in a celebratory mood!
Jay: Well if you insist...Medium rare.
Gary: Now that's what I like to hear!
At this point, Sarah has returned with their drinks, placing them in front of them.
Sarah: Here is the Dr. Pepper, and the Diet Pepsi. Are you gentlemen ready to order?
Gary: Yes we are, Sarah. My friend over there will have the Steak and Lobster, with his steak cooked medium rare, and I'll have the Cheeseburger and Fries, burger well done, with no tomatoes. I'm allergic.
Sarah: No problem! We'll have that up in about 15 to 20 minutes. If you need anything else, just let me know.
Jay & Gary: Thank you.
Jay has a grin of disbelief on his face as Sarah walks off to place the order. Gary flashes his trademark smirk.
Jay: You ordered the burger and fries! I thought you said we were celebrating tonight!
Gary: We are. I just don't like lobster.
Jay: You're far too kind. But let's get right down to business, and talk about what happened earlier tonight.
Gary: Absolutely. Did you see anything out there that raised some serious flags?
Jay: Well, maybe it's just the environment of the match, but there were a few things out there that you did that were flat out twisted, namely the spot where you raked that Shadow fellow's face across the cage by jumping up and down on his back. How do you come up with something like that?
Gary: To be honest, it just kind of happened. When I'm in that ring, sometimes an idea will just pop into my head, and I'll execute it. I saw the situation he was in, and decided it would be the best opportunity for me to inflict some damage. I was already busted open at that point, and figured if I didn't get him bleeding as well, it would be a short night. Was it vicious, yes, but would I do it again, probably.
Jay: That mindset really bothers me. I understand that you wrestle for competition, and that there are storylines that are made to draw interest in the pay-per-views, but the way you fought Shadow out there, it seemed really personal. I remember you telling me last week that you were afraid that this feud was much more personal than any feud you've ever been in, and I saw a lot of evidence that that was indeed the case out there tonight. If you want my personal opinion, I really feel that you ought to try and avoid wrestling Shadow again, because he really did bring out the worst in you...
Gary: I understand that, Jay, but I will inevitably have to defend this belt against him again. And in all honesty, I don't think it was Shadow that brought out the worst in me, it was my pride. At first, the whole issue was simply in character, that my character felt that he was slighted by Shadow, but as the feud wore on, I felt myself being more and more consumed with wanting to prove him wrong, not just in character, but for real.
Jay: And this hasn't happened before?
Gary: Not really. I've always be able to maintain a split between my business and my outside life, but not this time.
Jay: Why do you think that is? Do you think it might be the company you keep? Chris Cyrus is pretty salty...
Gary: No, it's not The Axis. Heck, I've been aligned with a lecherous little midget before. Actually, I feel that I have a responsibility to be looking out for those guys, because as you heard, they can be a bit wild at times. But they're my friends, so it gives me a real sense of satisfaction to help them in that way.
Jay: Well I'm glad to hear that. Still, I want to challenge you to really think about why this feud has been so personal, why it's pushed you to such extremes.
Sarah shows up with their food, and places the steak and lobster in front of Jay, and gives Gary his burger and fries.
Sarah: No tomatoes, just like you asked for!
Gary: Thanks!
As Sarah walks off, Jay and Gary bow their heads, and put their hands together.
Jay: Father God in heaven, we want to thank you for this food, and thank you for this time where we can be really honest with each other. I appreciate how you've used Gary to bless our church, and thank you for his safety and victory tonight. I also pray that you will help him to work through the issues that he's having with his wrestling career, and make it clear to him the path he must take. If it means quitting wrestling altogether, I pray that you will give him the strength to make that decision. Please bless this food for the nourishment of our bodies, and help us to have an amazing night with you and each other. Thank you, God. Amen.
Gary: Amen.
The two men begin to dig into their food.
Jay: So how did the rest of the night go?
Gary: It went swell. Chris retained his belt.
Jay: I'm glad to hear that!
Gary and Jay continue to chat and eat long into the night, enjoying each other's company. After they're done with their meal, Gary pays the bill, and they are about ready to leave the restaurant. On their way out, Gary talks to the waitress.
Gary: Before we go, Sarah, I just wanted to ask you a personal question, if that would be okay?
Sarah: Depends what it is.
Gary: Well, if you don't mind me asking, what's your stance on Christianity?
Sarah's face drops, and she starts to tear up a bit.
Sarah: I was raised in the church, but ended up drifting from it as I got older. To be honest, I've been going through some rough times, and I've tried to turn back to it, but I'm too ashamed.
Jay: Don't be. God would love nothing more than for you to turn back to him and to fully commit yourself to him. He loves you, and wants what's best for you. He will forgive you and help you if you turn to him with all your heart!
Sarah: It just that every time I go to church, I feel like everyone is judging me.
Jay: That's their sin. It's between them and God. My friend here and I go to an awesome, loving church in Seattle, and we have a sister church here in Toronto. If you'd like, we could hand your contact info off to somebody in the church, and they could help you out.
Sarah wipes her eyes, and a huge smile comes across her face.
Sarah: I'd love that!
Jay whips out a notepad, and gets Sarah's contact info. He pulls a business card out of his pocket and quickly scribbles a name and phone number on the back of it.
Jay: I have the pastor's wife's name and number written on the back of the this card, and if she doesn't contact you tomorrow, feel free to call her.
Sarah: Thank you so much! This is just what I've needed.
Gary: No problem at all. We just want to share what we have with God with everybody else.
Sarah shakes both of their hands, and then gets back to work. Jay pats Gary on the back.
Jay: Way to reach out there, bro.
Gary: It wasn't me, it was all God. He's just using me...Well, I got to get going to make sure that Chris Cyrus and The Beast aren't getting into too much trouble. Thanks for the advice, and I'll definitely think about what you said.
Jay: No problem. I'm only here to help you, bud. Have fun with your friends!
Gary heads back to his blue Prius in the parking garage, feeling a pang of guilt about not telling Jay about the Blaze of Glory match. He opens the door and sits down in the driver's seat, thinking to himself.
Gary: “Jay just wants to help me. Why am I afraid to tell him the truth? Although I did Sarah, so I can be happy about that. Still, how can I share my faith when I knowingly sinned mere moments before?”
Gary sits there for a moment, feeling really flustered. He reaches into his glove box to pull out a Bible, and opens it to the page where his bookmark is. Immediately, the scripture Galatians 6:7-10 pops out to him:
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
As he reads this scripture, Gary's eyes well up, and he begins to cry by himself.
Gary: “Even though Jay doesn't know, God still knows what I did.”
***
(Airing on Tuesday, September 22)
Depeche Mode's “Space Walker” begins to play as the words “First Contact” flash across a starry background. It then switches to Biggs standing on a rather swanky set with a clear podium and a black screen behind him. The starry background is projected on the screen, and the clear podium glows blue. There is also a blue leather couch next to the podium. Biggs is clad in his usual wrestling gear and the Overdrive Title clasped around his waist.
Biggs: Ladies and germs, welcome to the latest addition of Biggs' First Contact, the #1 rated wrestling webshow on the net! For those of you wondering why I didn't do a show the past few weeks, particularly considering that I got this shiny new belt at the pay-per-view, it's because I was waiting for them to finish construction on my brand new set! It's quite the set, I must say, and I can't help but feel a little prideful about the fact that now the ring crew has to devote a portion of their truck to hauling around something made specifically for me! But enough about my new set, let's get right down to business!
The Shockwave Logo appears on the screen behind Biggs.
Biggs: Now the Shockwave pay-per-view was a huge success for APW, mostly because your's truly won the APW Overdrive Title, and my good friend Chris Cyrus retained his APW Xtreme Championship. That means the Axis of Awesome is in control of two out of the three main titles on APW, making us the most powerful faction in APW! Chris and myself proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that we are superior to the AKA in every way possible, and though Assassin may have made his return, it doesn't change the fact that Shadow is without his APW Overdrive Championship anymore, and that Slade had to spend a few weeks in the hospital. And while I have certainly gotten some heat, ha ha, for my involvement in the Blaze of Glory match, I just have to ask Shadow and Assassin where they were when their friend needed help? I merely came out to ensure that Chris Cyrus wasn't the one to be engulfed in flame. My intentions were noble. You see, unlike the AKA, the Axis has each other's backs, and that is why we left Shockwave in possession of the APW Overdrive and Xtreme Titles. And while I would like to say that we were in possession of the APW Heavyweight Title, that will happen soon enough. In the meantime, Level-One has proven again why he is the champ, beating Jesse Nunez despite all the crap that Max Carter heaped upon the champ. Here's my official congrats to Level-One, keep up the good work!
Shadow's mug is shown on the screen.
Biggs: I'd like to spend a little bit more time talking about my match with Shadow, how awesomely epic and fitting it was that I won in a match that was supposed to give him the advantage! Shadow, you underestimated me for the last time when we were locked in that cage, and your pride got the best of you, because I humiliated you in that cage! Sure, you may have come out like a ball of lightning, pummeling me into a bloody mess early on, but I knew that your emotions would betray you, I knew that if I could weather the storm, which I did, it would only be a matter of time before I beat you to not only prove you wrong, but to also lay claim to becoming the new APW Overdrive Champion. And unlike you, Shadow, I will prove myself to be a glorious champion, worthy of the honor and privilege of carrying this title. And while my little gauntlet match at Overdrive was merely me having fun at your expense, I think my words after the match had a much greater impact, namely in demanding that I be booked in an Overdrive Title defense this week. You never did such a thing, did you, Shadow? This it but one example of why I am already a greater champion than you could ever hope to be.
A picture of Michael Lively graces the starry background as Biggs continues to speak.
Biggs: And on the topic of my title defense this week, President Jeff sure made things interesting for me in booking me to face none other than the “White Lion” himself, Michael Lively! Now Lively, I got to say, you're one of my favorite wrestlers here in APW, besides Cyrus and myself, that is. Congrats on your big win over Pres Jeff at the PPV that earned you a new contract. I very much enjoy the fact that you are who you are without any regard to what the fans think of you. I respect that, and I respect your ability in the ring. So I must thank President Jeff for putting me in a match with you, because when I beat you to successfully retain my championship, I will know that I have beaten a worthy opponent. Make no mistakes about it, Michael Lively, while I respect you, I by no means fear you. As much as I hate to say this, you are merely my first step in becoming regarded as the greatest APW Overdrive Champion in the history of this company! What better way to prove my greatness than to defeat a former APW Heavyweight Champion in my first official title defense? I could go out there and beat Level-One, but he's a bit preoccupied with that tool, Pence Weatherlight. Lively, I didn't handpick you as my first opponent because I respect you, nor did I pick you because I thought you'd be a cakewalk. No, I picked you to build my legacy, at your expense. I know that you will push me to fight harder than I ever had to with Shadow, but they say that the quality of a champion is dependent on the quality of his opposition, and I want to be known as a quality champion. When it's all said and done, Lively, Nicky Paige will say, 'Here is your winner, and still the APW Overdrive Champion, Biggs!' And remember this, Lively, it's nothing personal.
Biggs flashes his trademark smirk.
Biggs: Well, I'm getting told that I don't have much time left, cause they need to pack up the truck, so I'll quickly get my Shameless Plug of the week in.
Biggs holds up a CD copy of Muse's new album, The Resistance.
Biggs: My Shameless Plug of the Week is for the new album by my second favorite band, Muse, entitled The Resistance! This is a great album, chock full of great, lush soundscapes, and some pretty rockin' guitar riffs to boot. Also, the final three tracks are simply brilliant, as they are the three part Exogenisis Symphony. Over 40 musicians were involved in recording the tune, and boy is it epic!
At this point, some of the production crew has come on the set, and grab the couch.
Biggs: Hey! I'm not done yet! Can you at least wait for me to sign off?
The crew member shakes his head as he and his compatriot lift the couch and walk it off set. Biggs has an annoyed look on his face.
Biggs: Seriously, you can't find good help these days. Still, until next week, keep watching the stars!
The APW logo flashes across the screen as First Contact comes to a close.
August 30, 2009
The Trainer's Room in the Air Canada Centre is brightly lit room with green tile walls and white linoleum floors. The air is a bit stagnant, and it smells of medicine. Biggs is seated on the doctor's bench, with his head stitched up and dried blood on his face. Besides Biggs, the fight doctor is in the room. He is an aged man of short height and stout build, and he's slightly balding. Clad in a white doctor's coat and a green shirt, he has a double chin and several liver spots. The doctor is checking Biggs' arm, moving the elbow joint a bit. The new APW Overdrive champion winces a bit, and the doctor has a slight wheeze in his voice as he speaks.
Doctor: Thankfully it's nothing too serious, just some minor swelling and bruising that should subside in a few days.
Biggs: I'm booked for a short tour of Japan in four days. Should I be able to work those shows?
Doctor: Shouldn't be a problem, just take care of that arm until then. You're free to go.
Biggs slides down off the table and grabs his Overdrive Title Belt, slinging it over his good shoulder before exiting the training room. As he steps out into the hall, Pastor Jay is there to greet him with a big hug.
Jay: (excited) CONGRATULATIONS GARY! YOU DID IT! YOU WON THE BELT! I'M SO PROUD OF YOU!
Biggs: Careful with the arm...
Jay quickly lets go of the hug.
Jay: Sorry! I'm just elated that you won is all! I had to come back here right away to congratulate you!
Biggs: Thanks, man. That means a lot to me that you're proud of me for this.
Jay: Now don't think that just because I'm proud of your accomplishments that we won't have a few things to talk about later. You wanted me to come to be able to get a good look at what you do for a living, and there were a few things that concerned me a bit, but now is a time for celebration!
At this point, Chris Cyrus and The Beast show up. Chris is beaming with joy, and The Beast gives Biggs a hearty slap on the back, causing a bit of discomfort for the new champ!
Cyrus: Oh hell yeah! You went out there tonight, Biggs, and showed exactly why The Axis of Awesome is just that, AWESOME! Not only did you out-wrestle Shadow, but you out-smarted the bum as well! Rock on!
Biggs: Thanks man.
Cyrus: We should celebrate by going out after the show and getting plastered!
Biggs: (pointing towards Jay while he's talking) Nope...Not my thing.
Cyrus: Ah, c'mon! You can bring the preacher man if you want!
Jay: That's not necessary.
Biggs: Actually, Jay and I already made plans to talk about a few things tonight following the show, but I'll be more than glad to join you after that.
Cyrus: So you'll be joining us in getting totally s***-faced!
Biggs: Well, you guys will be needing a designated driver.
Cyrus: You're no fun!
Biggs: But I do keep us safe so you can have more fun.
Cyrus: True that!
At this point, Jay intercedes.
Jay: Well, Gary, I think I'll be getting back to the hotel now.
Biggs: Why Jay? Don't you want to stay for the rest of the show?
Jay: Not really. This stuff is far too violent for my tastes. But still, congrats on the huge win tonight!
Biggs: Thanks again. You sure you don't want to stay?
Jay: Yep, I'm positive. Just give me a call when you get back to the hotel. I figure we can grab dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Biggs: No problem. And I'm paying tonight, no arguments about it.
Jay: If you insist, I won't stop you!
Biggs and Jay shake hands, and then Jay makes his way down the hall, heading towards the parking garage.
Biggs: (shouting towards Jay) I'll see you in a bit, bud!
Cyrus: Okay, now we got to talk about my match tonight, and how I'm going to retain my title without going extreme.
Biggs: Totally, no problem. Let's head to our locker room so nobody can eavesdrop.
***
After the conclusion of the Shockwave pay-per-view, Gary Biggerstaff is driving back to the Hilton hotel that he and Jay are staying at. As he's stopped at a light, Gary replays the image of dousing Slade with lighter fluid from the Super Soaker, and then the human torch Slade became after becoming engulfed in flames:
Slade grabs a package of matches and holds them up as the fans pop huge. He then tears off one match, and folds it behind the book ready to spark up the beginning of his title reign. Just then the fans explode with roaring which gets Slades attention. He turns toward the side of the ring as Biggs comes into his vision. The New APW Overdrive Champion, Biggs, has a super soaker in his hand. Slade steps to the edge of the ring, as Biggs begins spraying the liquid in his squirt gun on the man. Craven leaps out of the ring and begins chasing Biggs around the ring. Chris Cyrus stirs to his feet, and sees the assist he is receiving and then notices all the lighters in the ring. He clutches one of the lighters in his grasp and rolls out of the ring perching down as Biggs runs by him followed by Craven. Cryus then takes lighter and cracks it on the mans forehead sending out a spark that ignites the lighter fluid covering Cravens face. Cyrus quickly rolls away making sure he doesn't get caught in the flame. The ref quickly calls for the bell.
Tony: Your Winner and still Xtreme Champion Chris Cyrus.
The fire quickly spreads all over Slade's body as his arms begin flapping back and forth before he falls face forward. The technical crew rushes in and begins spraying the man off with fire extinguishers.
Gary: “How could I have done that to another man? How could I let myself knowingly douse another human being with lighter fluid with the intent of getting him set on fire? I bet that Slade's laid out in some hospital bed, covered from head to toe in bandages, and I'm responsible for that. I am responsible if his burns get infected. I am responsible if he has to lose a limb because of an infection. I am responsible for any complications that occur from his burns. I may very well be responsible for his very life if the worst occurs.”
At this point, the light has turned green, but Gary is lost in his thoughts, and doesn't go. A shrill honking of the horn behind him snaps Gary out of his deep thought, and he notices the green light. He steps on the gas, and goes through the light before turning into the Hilton's parking garage. As he parks his blue Prius, Gary sits out in the car a bit longer, thinking to himself some more.
Gary: “Well, it's not all my fault. After all, it was Max Carter who made the match. And what's more, he put my best friend in the match, despite the fact that Chris has sworn off the hardcore style forever. I simply did what I had to to protect my friend. If hadn't of been Slade who got burned, it would have been Chris, and I couldn't let that happen to my friend. Where was Shadow during all of this, and why did Assassin wait until after the match to come down? I was being a good friend, looking out for the wellbeing of my pal. More than the AKA, at least. Still, is protecting my friend from the same fate enough justification? I feel that it is...”
*The Starmaker says it ain't so bad/ The Dreammaker's going to make you mad/ The Spaceman says everybody look down/ It's all in your mind!* Gary's cellphone is ringing. The Overdrive champ grabs his phone, slides it open, and answers.
Gary: Hey Jay, what's up?...Yeah, I just got to the hotel, and parked my car. I'll be inside in a bit...Okay, see you when I get there.
Gary hangs up his phone and steps out of the car, clicking the button to lock everything up. The car chirps to acknowledge that it's locked, and Gary makes his way towards the hotel building.
Gary: “I'm just glad that Jay didn't stay to see that match...”
***
Jay is already seated in the hotel restaurant as Gary enters. The pastor waves to get his friend's attention, and Gary immediately sees him, making his way to the table and taking a seat. The restaurant is very posh, very classy, and is decorated in beige and maroon hues. As Gary sits down, a waitress comes by. She is your stereotypical blond waitress with a thin frame and a large smile.
Waitress: Hello, my name is Sarah, and I'll be your server for this evening.
Sarah notices the stitches on Gary's forehead.
Sarah: Looks like you've had a rough night so far. Can I get you something to drink to kick off a bit of the edge?
Biggs: No thanks. I'll just have a Dr. Pepper.
Sarah: (turning to Jay) And for your drink, sir?
Jay: I'll just have a diet, thank you.
Sarah: I'll be right back with those drinks.
As Sarah leaves, Jay and Gary pick up their menus, and begin to peruse them, trying to figure out what they want to eat.
Gary: So what are you going to have tonight, Jay?
Jay: I was thinking about going with the burger and fries.
Gary: Now don't go cheap on my Jay! That's the least expensive thing on the menu! Let me treat you tonight!
Jay: I seriously just want the burger and fries, it looks good...
Gary: Rubbish! You know that you want the steak and lobster, so you're going to get the steak and lobster! How do you like your steak?
Jay: That's really not necessary. The burger and fries would be fine...
Gary: Seriously, Jay, please let me treat you tonight. I'm in a celebratory mood!
Jay: Well if you insist...Medium rare.
Gary: Now that's what I like to hear!
At this point, Sarah has returned with their drinks, placing them in front of them.
Sarah: Here is the Dr. Pepper, and the Diet Pepsi. Are you gentlemen ready to order?
Gary: Yes we are, Sarah. My friend over there will have the Steak and Lobster, with his steak cooked medium rare, and I'll have the Cheeseburger and Fries, burger well done, with no tomatoes. I'm allergic.
Sarah: No problem! We'll have that up in about 15 to 20 minutes. If you need anything else, just let me know.
Jay & Gary: Thank you.
Jay has a grin of disbelief on his face as Sarah walks off to place the order. Gary flashes his trademark smirk.
Jay: You ordered the burger and fries! I thought you said we were celebrating tonight!
Gary: We are. I just don't like lobster.
Jay: You're far too kind. But let's get right down to business, and talk about what happened earlier tonight.
Gary: Absolutely. Did you see anything out there that raised some serious flags?
Jay: Well, maybe it's just the environment of the match, but there were a few things out there that you did that were flat out twisted, namely the spot where you raked that Shadow fellow's face across the cage by jumping up and down on his back. How do you come up with something like that?
Gary: To be honest, it just kind of happened. When I'm in that ring, sometimes an idea will just pop into my head, and I'll execute it. I saw the situation he was in, and decided it would be the best opportunity for me to inflict some damage. I was already busted open at that point, and figured if I didn't get him bleeding as well, it would be a short night. Was it vicious, yes, but would I do it again, probably.
Jay: That mindset really bothers me. I understand that you wrestle for competition, and that there are storylines that are made to draw interest in the pay-per-views, but the way you fought Shadow out there, it seemed really personal. I remember you telling me last week that you were afraid that this feud was much more personal than any feud you've ever been in, and I saw a lot of evidence that that was indeed the case out there tonight. If you want my personal opinion, I really feel that you ought to try and avoid wrestling Shadow again, because he really did bring out the worst in you...
Gary: I understand that, Jay, but I will inevitably have to defend this belt against him again. And in all honesty, I don't think it was Shadow that brought out the worst in me, it was my pride. At first, the whole issue was simply in character, that my character felt that he was slighted by Shadow, but as the feud wore on, I felt myself being more and more consumed with wanting to prove him wrong, not just in character, but for real.
Jay: And this hasn't happened before?
Gary: Not really. I've always be able to maintain a split between my business and my outside life, but not this time.
Jay: Why do you think that is? Do you think it might be the company you keep? Chris Cyrus is pretty salty...
Gary: No, it's not The Axis. Heck, I've been aligned with a lecherous little midget before. Actually, I feel that I have a responsibility to be looking out for those guys, because as you heard, they can be a bit wild at times. But they're my friends, so it gives me a real sense of satisfaction to help them in that way.
Jay: Well I'm glad to hear that. Still, I want to challenge you to really think about why this feud has been so personal, why it's pushed you to such extremes.
Sarah shows up with their food, and places the steak and lobster in front of Jay, and gives Gary his burger and fries.
Sarah: No tomatoes, just like you asked for!
Gary: Thanks!
As Sarah walks off, Jay and Gary bow their heads, and put their hands together.
Jay: Father God in heaven, we want to thank you for this food, and thank you for this time where we can be really honest with each other. I appreciate how you've used Gary to bless our church, and thank you for his safety and victory tonight. I also pray that you will help him to work through the issues that he's having with his wrestling career, and make it clear to him the path he must take. If it means quitting wrestling altogether, I pray that you will give him the strength to make that decision. Please bless this food for the nourishment of our bodies, and help us to have an amazing night with you and each other. Thank you, God. Amen.
Gary: Amen.
The two men begin to dig into their food.
Jay: So how did the rest of the night go?
Gary: It went swell. Chris retained his belt.
Jay: I'm glad to hear that!
Gary and Jay continue to chat and eat long into the night, enjoying each other's company. After they're done with their meal, Gary pays the bill, and they are about ready to leave the restaurant. On their way out, Gary talks to the waitress.
Gary: Before we go, Sarah, I just wanted to ask you a personal question, if that would be okay?
Sarah: Depends what it is.
Gary: Well, if you don't mind me asking, what's your stance on Christianity?
Sarah's face drops, and she starts to tear up a bit.
Sarah: I was raised in the church, but ended up drifting from it as I got older. To be honest, I've been going through some rough times, and I've tried to turn back to it, but I'm too ashamed.
Jay: Don't be. God would love nothing more than for you to turn back to him and to fully commit yourself to him. He loves you, and wants what's best for you. He will forgive you and help you if you turn to him with all your heart!
Sarah: It just that every time I go to church, I feel like everyone is judging me.
Jay: That's their sin. It's between them and God. My friend here and I go to an awesome, loving church in Seattle, and we have a sister church here in Toronto. If you'd like, we could hand your contact info off to somebody in the church, and they could help you out.
Sarah wipes her eyes, and a huge smile comes across her face.
Sarah: I'd love that!
Jay whips out a notepad, and gets Sarah's contact info. He pulls a business card out of his pocket and quickly scribbles a name and phone number on the back of it.
Jay: I have the pastor's wife's name and number written on the back of the this card, and if she doesn't contact you tomorrow, feel free to call her.
Sarah: Thank you so much! This is just what I've needed.
Gary: No problem at all. We just want to share what we have with God with everybody else.
Sarah shakes both of their hands, and then gets back to work. Jay pats Gary on the back.
Jay: Way to reach out there, bro.
Gary: It wasn't me, it was all God. He's just using me...Well, I got to get going to make sure that Chris Cyrus and The Beast aren't getting into too much trouble. Thanks for the advice, and I'll definitely think about what you said.
Jay: No problem. I'm only here to help you, bud. Have fun with your friends!
Gary heads back to his blue Prius in the parking garage, feeling a pang of guilt about not telling Jay about the Blaze of Glory match. He opens the door and sits down in the driver's seat, thinking to himself.
Gary: “Jay just wants to help me. Why am I afraid to tell him the truth? Although I did Sarah, so I can be happy about that. Still, how can I share my faith when I knowingly sinned mere moments before?”
Gary sits there for a moment, feeling really flustered. He reaches into his glove box to pull out a Bible, and opens it to the page where his bookmark is. Immediately, the scripture Galatians 6:7-10 pops out to him:
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
As he reads this scripture, Gary's eyes well up, and he begins to cry by himself.
Gary: “Even though Jay doesn't know, God still knows what I did.”
***
(Airing on Tuesday, September 22)
Depeche Mode's “Space Walker” begins to play as the words “First Contact” flash across a starry background. It then switches to Biggs standing on a rather swanky set with a clear podium and a black screen behind him. The starry background is projected on the screen, and the clear podium glows blue. There is also a blue leather couch next to the podium. Biggs is clad in his usual wrestling gear and the Overdrive Title clasped around his waist.
Biggs: Ladies and germs, welcome to the latest addition of Biggs' First Contact, the #1 rated wrestling webshow on the net! For those of you wondering why I didn't do a show the past few weeks, particularly considering that I got this shiny new belt at the pay-per-view, it's because I was waiting for them to finish construction on my brand new set! It's quite the set, I must say, and I can't help but feel a little prideful about the fact that now the ring crew has to devote a portion of their truck to hauling around something made specifically for me! But enough about my new set, let's get right down to business!
The Shockwave Logo appears on the screen behind Biggs.
Biggs: Now the Shockwave pay-per-view was a huge success for APW, mostly because your's truly won the APW Overdrive Title, and my good friend Chris Cyrus retained his APW Xtreme Championship. That means the Axis of Awesome is in control of two out of the three main titles on APW, making us the most powerful faction in APW! Chris and myself proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that we are superior to the AKA in every way possible, and though Assassin may have made his return, it doesn't change the fact that Shadow is without his APW Overdrive Championship anymore, and that Slade had to spend a few weeks in the hospital. And while I have certainly gotten some heat, ha ha, for my involvement in the Blaze of Glory match, I just have to ask Shadow and Assassin where they were when their friend needed help? I merely came out to ensure that Chris Cyrus wasn't the one to be engulfed in flame. My intentions were noble. You see, unlike the AKA, the Axis has each other's backs, and that is why we left Shockwave in possession of the APW Overdrive and Xtreme Titles. And while I would like to say that we were in possession of the APW Heavyweight Title, that will happen soon enough. In the meantime, Level-One has proven again why he is the champ, beating Jesse Nunez despite all the crap that Max Carter heaped upon the champ. Here's my official congrats to Level-One, keep up the good work!
Shadow's mug is shown on the screen.
Biggs: I'd like to spend a little bit more time talking about my match with Shadow, how awesomely epic and fitting it was that I won in a match that was supposed to give him the advantage! Shadow, you underestimated me for the last time when we were locked in that cage, and your pride got the best of you, because I humiliated you in that cage! Sure, you may have come out like a ball of lightning, pummeling me into a bloody mess early on, but I knew that your emotions would betray you, I knew that if I could weather the storm, which I did, it would only be a matter of time before I beat you to not only prove you wrong, but to also lay claim to becoming the new APW Overdrive Champion. And unlike you, Shadow, I will prove myself to be a glorious champion, worthy of the honor and privilege of carrying this title. And while my little gauntlet match at Overdrive was merely me having fun at your expense, I think my words after the match had a much greater impact, namely in demanding that I be booked in an Overdrive Title defense this week. You never did such a thing, did you, Shadow? This it but one example of why I am already a greater champion than you could ever hope to be.
A picture of Michael Lively graces the starry background as Biggs continues to speak.
Biggs: And on the topic of my title defense this week, President Jeff sure made things interesting for me in booking me to face none other than the “White Lion” himself, Michael Lively! Now Lively, I got to say, you're one of my favorite wrestlers here in APW, besides Cyrus and myself, that is. Congrats on your big win over Pres Jeff at the PPV that earned you a new contract. I very much enjoy the fact that you are who you are without any regard to what the fans think of you. I respect that, and I respect your ability in the ring. So I must thank President Jeff for putting me in a match with you, because when I beat you to successfully retain my championship, I will know that I have beaten a worthy opponent. Make no mistakes about it, Michael Lively, while I respect you, I by no means fear you. As much as I hate to say this, you are merely my first step in becoming regarded as the greatest APW Overdrive Champion in the history of this company! What better way to prove my greatness than to defeat a former APW Heavyweight Champion in my first official title defense? I could go out there and beat Level-One, but he's a bit preoccupied with that tool, Pence Weatherlight. Lively, I didn't handpick you as my first opponent because I respect you, nor did I pick you because I thought you'd be a cakewalk. No, I picked you to build my legacy, at your expense. I know that you will push me to fight harder than I ever had to with Shadow, but they say that the quality of a champion is dependent on the quality of his opposition, and I want to be known as a quality champion. When it's all said and done, Lively, Nicky Paige will say, 'Here is your winner, and still the APW Overdrive Champion, Biggs!' And remember this, Lively, it's nothing personal.
Biggs flashes his trademark smirk.
Biggs: Well, I'm getting told that I don't have much time left, cause they need to pack up the truck, so I'll quickly get my Shameless Plug of the week in.
Biggs holds up a CD copy of Muse's new album, The Resistance.
Biggs: My Shameless Plug of the Week is for the new album by my second favorite band, Muse, entitled The Resistance! This is a great album, chock full of great, lush soundscapes, and some pretty rockin' guitar riffs to boot. Also, the final three tracks are simply brilliant, as they are the three part Exogenisis Symphony. Over 40 musicians were involved in recording the tune, and boy is it epic!
At this point, some of the production crew has come on the set, and grab the couch.
Biggs: Hey! I'm not done yet! Can you at least wait for me to sign off?
The crew member shakes his head as he and his compatriot lift the couch and walk it off set. Biggs has an annoyed look on his face.
Biggs: Seriously, you can't find good help these days. Still, until next week, keep watching the stars!
The APW logo flashes across the screen as First Contact comes to a close.
